While driving down an East Texas country road I spotted this scene. The autumn trees and the late afternoon sun made these golden bales of hay shine just a little bit more. Fortunately I had my camera with me. (c) James Q. Eddy Jr.

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This NPR College Podcast Challenge finalist might change how you hear your commute

NPR | By Bennett Cook,

Student Podcast Challenge

Published December 8, 2025 at 5:26 PM CST

One recent college graduate recorded ambient sounds during his commute and found something surprising. His resulting podcast — a finalist in NPR's College Podcast Challenge — may change the way you listen to the world around you.

This is an excerpt from "Transit Music" by Bennett Cook. His story was a finalist in the 2021 NPR College Podcast Challenge.

Bennett Cook

Student Podcast Challenge