[eucryphia]

I occasionally drive 3.5 hours to an evening meeting, visit my brother overnight, return early in the morning.

If the meeting is pointless, I prescribe soothing classical music afterwards, Bach, Mozart, you'll need all the help you can get.

Otherwise podcasts. I recommend Russ Roberts EconTalk, not just about economics.

On a bus you'll need good noise cancelling earphones and a means to recharge or power it.

I find my best ideas randomly pop into my head when thinking about something completely different, so don't think it has to be relevant to what you're working on at the time.

[notahappycamper]

I do already listen to podcasts, including EconTalk. I have a lot of inactive downtime like walking to the bus stop, walking my dog, grocery shopping etc. I am trying to find a way to actively improve my skills as a recent grad since I am going to be forced to have this passive time since I am not driving.