"Standardized Test" by Seoung Kim + "It Holds Her in the Palm of One Hand (Part 2)" by Lowry Poletti

Curated by bestselling anthologist John Joseph Adams, LIGHTSPEED MAGAZINE-Science Fiction and Fantasy Story Podcast transforms the celebrated pages of its Hugo Award-winning digital magazine into an immersive audio experience. This isn't just a narration; it's a monthly portal built on the foundation of a critically-acclaimed publication, offering a rich blend of original short stories and classic reprints brought to life through professional voice acting. The range is vast and deliberately curated, moving from intimate, near-future sociological science fiction to epic tales set in galaxies far away. The fantasy selections are equally diverse, spanning timeless sword-and-sorcery adventures, contemporary urban magic, subtle magical realism, and inventive science-fantasy hybrids. Every episode of this podcast from Adamant Press is a standalone journey, designed to fit into a commute or an evening at home, delivering the depth and quality of a literary magazine in a convenient audiobook-style format. You'll encounter emerging voices alongside established masters of the genre, all united by a commitment to compelling storytelling. The result is a consistently engaging listen that explores the full spectrum of what speculative fiction can be, making each story feel both fresh and timeless. Tune in for a direct line to some of the most imaginative short fiction being written today, all served in a polished, audio-first presentation.