My kids are into lots of podcasts.
Their favourite by far has been
Dr Floyd. It's about a time travelling Dr and his archnemisis. Totally zany in a way that 8 year olds love. The archnemisis is always travelling back in time to steal some kind of historical artifact so he can sell it on Ebay and Dr Floyd follows him to figure out what he is doing and stop him. Great way to learn history.
They also like the Sciene Friday podcasts, BBC World News for Kids, Learn Out Loud's Biography.
In terms of music as a family we listen to a lot of local music - mostly in the folk/celtic genres - probably can't help you much there.
Good luck