In some ways, when it comes to shows about nature, cameras have dulled our senses. Vivid colors, stunning compositions, impossible-to-get shots that somehow get gotten. It’s a world where sight triumphs, but where we can forget to listen. And yet, the BBC Earth podcast reminds us that sound is perhaps our keenest sense, not just for survival but for storytelling. In the hands of these producers, it makes for beautiful, provocative, riveting episodes. Case in point: “My Best Friend Was an Octopus,” which will quite possibly forever change the way you think about these creatures. (bbcearth.com)

Premium computer-drive brand LaCie describes their small yet powerful Mobile SSD (an acronym for “solid-state drive”) as “a digital shot of espresso.” Made in celebration of LaCie’s 30th anniversary, this Apple-exclusive hardware is easily the sleekest and smartest form of external data storage available, with capacity ranging from 500 gigabytes to two terabytes, all at a speed of 540 megabytes per second. In non-nerd terms: this pocket-size drive makes data transfer quick, painless, and cool-looking. With a diamond-cut design and lightweight space-gray aluminum body, the aesthetic perfectly matches the MacBook Pro, and its functions are well suited to both professional techies looking to improve workflow in memory-hogging applications like Final Cut Pro and amateur futuristic-gadget enthusiasts hoping to safely store surplus vacation photos. (Starting at $130, apple.com)

Rancho Gordo beans have been heralded by epicureans worldwide as above-average legumes. Profiled in The New Yorker, and carried by any specialty shop worth its Maldon salt, the Napa Valley–based purveyor has a wide range of varietals: flageolet for cassoulet, cranberry beans for pasta e fagioli, heirloom cannellinis—dubbed “Marcella beans”—for Marcella Hazan. Deep within their inventory, however, lies a product even the most persnickety foodies had no idea they needed upgraded—popcorn. Rancho Gordo’s kernels begin red, but when popped they shed almost their entire hull, ensuring no little bits get caught in your teeth as you munch. Plus, the bright-white and moist popcorn contains a revelatory corn flavor, requiring a lower dosing of salt and butter topping. ($4, ranchogordo.com)

In early November, actor-cum-philosopher Matthew McConaughey debuted his Instagram with a very him video, saying he hoped his profile would inspire followers to “take a quiet moment for a walk and go, ‘I gotta check in with the M and the E.’” If anyone can inspire off-screen self-reflection via the digital world’s superlative platform for narcissism, it’s this him. McConaughey’s posts reflect multitudes—photos of his dirty flip-flops sit alongside paparazzi shots of the actor looking dapper—but our feeds are truly blessed by his contemplative videos. For New Year’s, he gazed out of a window and asked, “2020—what’s that about? Well, if 2019 was ‘It’d be a lot cooler if you did,’ I’m looking for 2020 to be a lot cooler because we do.” McConaughey’s Insta makes us want to, as he says, “Keep the high eye,” whatever that means. (instagram.com)

Think of your most beloved silk scarf, then picture it with a pair of wheels, pedals, gears, brakes … you know, as a bicycle. Hermès made a bike—need we say more? With a sleek, unisex design, a featherweight frame, and taurillon leather on the seat, handlebars, and crossbar, this eco-friendly vehicle is as stylish as it gets, a ride crafted with Hermès’s trademark high-caliber aesthetic. Just be sure you lock it up when you ride it to lunch. ($12,300; hermes.com)