Podcasts have revolutionized the way we consume audio content, offering a vast array of genres, topics, and hosts to choose from. From true crime and comedy to news and music, there is a podcast out there for everyone. But with such a vast selection, finding the best podcasts to suit your interests can be a daunting task.
In this article, we have curated a list of the top picks for the best podcasts to tune into now. These podcasts have been highly rated, recommended by listeners, and cover a wide range of genres and interests. Whether you’re a long-time podcast enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of audio storytelling, these shows are must-listens that are sure to captivate and entertain you.
Key Takeaways:
- There are over 2 million podcasts available to listen to today.
- Finding the best podcasts to suit your interests can be overwhelming.
- We have curated a list of the top picks for the best podcasts across various genres and interests.
- These podcasts have been highly rated and recommended by listeners.
- Discover your next favorite podcast and dive into the captivating world of audio storytelling.
True Crime Podcasts
True crime podcasts have gained immense popularity in recent years, captivating audiences with gripping storytelling and deep dives into real-life crime stories. These podcasts offer a fascinating exploration of crime, delving into murder mysteries, unsolved cases, and the intricacies of criminal investigations. From shocking revelations to the psychology behind criminal behavior, true crime podcasts provide a compelling narrative that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats.
One of the most influential and groundbreaking podcasts in this genre is “Serial”, which explores murder cases and has paved the way for many investigative true crime podcasts. With its meticulous research and attention to detail, “Serial” captivated millions of listeners and sparked a true crime podcast phenomenon.
Other notable true crime podcasts include:
- “Crime Junkie”: Hosted by Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat, this podcast delves into compelling crime stories, featuring captivating storytelling and in-depth research.
- “Morbid: A True Crime Podcast”: Alaina Urquhart and Ashleigh Kelley explore the darker side of humanity, discussing murder cases and unsolved mysteries.
- “My Favorite Murder”: Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark share their favorite murder stories and engage with a passionate community of true crime enthusiasts.
These podcasts not only entertain but also shed light on the complexities of crime, the criminal justice system, and the impact of these cases on individuals and society as a whole.
“Serial”: A Game-Changer for True Crime Podcasts
“Serial” revolutionized the true crime podcast genre, captivating listeners with its immersive storytelling and groundbreaking investigative journalism. Sarah Koenig’s meticulous research and interviews brought a murder case to life, encouraging a new wave of podcasts centered around real-life crime stories.”
“Crime Junkie”: Unraveling Crime Stories
“Crime Junkie” combines passion for crime stories with detailed research, providing listeners with in-depth insights into compelling cases. Ashley and Brit’s ability to engage listeners through their storytelling has made this podcast a fan favorite and must-listen for true crime enthusiasts.”
“Morbid: A True Crime Podcast”: Exploring the Dark Side
“Morbid” dives fearlessly into grim tales of murder, exploring the psychology behind criminal behavior and the societal impact of these heinous acts. Alaina and Ashleigh’s engaging discussions make this podcast a gripping and thought-provoking experience.”
“My Favorite Murder”: Sharing Chilling Stories
“My Favorite Murder” combines a dark subject matter with humor and personal anecdotes, creating a unique blend of entertainment and true crime storytelling. Karen and Georgia’s charismatic hosting style has garnered a dedicated following and turned this podcast into a cultural phenomenon.”
Podcast | Hosts | Description |
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“Serial” | Sarah Koenig | Investigates true crime cases in a serialized format, diving deep into compelling mysteries. |
“Crime Junkie” | Ashley Flowers, Brit Prawat | Explores gripping crime stories through meticulous research and engaging storytelling. |
“Morbid: A True Crime Podcast” | Alaina Urquhart, Ashleigh Kelley | Examines the darker side of humanity through in-depth discussions of murder cases and unsolved mysteries. |
“My Favorite Murder” | Karen Kilgariff, Georgia Hardstark | Shares chilling murder stories with a mix of humor and personal anecdotes, fostering a strong community of true crime enthusiasts. |
Comedy Podcasts
If you’re in need of some laughter and lighthearted entertainment, comedy podcasts are the perfect choice. These podcasts guarantee an abundance of humor, funny conversations, and celebrity interviews that will keep your spirits high. Whether you’re a fan of witty banter, humorous storytelling, or comedic commentary, there’s a comedy podcast out there to suit your taste.
Office Ladies
If you’re a fan of the hit sitcom “The Office,” you’ll love “Office Ladies” hosted by Jenna Fischer (Pam Beesly) and Angela Kinsey (Angela Martin). Get ready to dive into behind-the-scenes anecdotes, memorable moments, and exclusive insights from the beloved show. Laugh along with Jenna and Angela as they take you on a hilarious journey through every episode of “The Office.”
How Did This Get Made?
Calling all movie enthusiasts! “How Did This Get Made?” is a comedy podcast that hilariously dissects and mocks bad movies. Hosted by Paul Scheer, Jason Mantzoukas, and June Diane Raphael, this show will have you in stitches as they explore the absurdity of Hollywood’s biggest flops. From questionable plots to questionable acting, they leave no stone unturned in their witty critique.
Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend
Join late-night legend Conan O’Brien as he embarks on a quest to find true friendship. In “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend,” Conan engages in hilarious and candid conversations with a wide range of guests, including comedians, actors, and musicians. Prepare for plenty of laughs, unexpected revelations, and entertaining stories from the world of entertainment.
Call Her Daddy
“Call Her Daddy” is a raw and explicit comedy podcast hosted by Alexandra Cooper, where no topic is off-limits. Explore the world of dating, relationships, and sex through Alexandra’s outrageous and unfiltered discussions. Strap in for a wild ride filled with laughter, outrageous stories, and a fresh perspective on modern dating culture.
SmartLess
Join actors and funny friends Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett on their unpredictable and hilarious journey in “SmartLess.” Each episode features a surprise guest, ranging from celebrated actors to industry icons, guaranteeing you an amusing and insightful hour of conversation. Get ready for laughter, intriguing stories, and plenty of unexpected surprises.
Podcast | Hosts | Description |
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Office Ladies | Jenna Fischer, Angela Kinsey | Behind-the-scenes insights into “The Office,” with hilarious anecdotes and exclusive interviews. |
How Did This Get Made? | Paul Scheer, Jason Mantzoukas, June Diane Raphael | Humorous exploration of bad movies, dissecting their absurdity and questionable choices. |
Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend | Conan O’Brien | Candid conversations and hilarious interactions with a wide range of guests. |
Call Her Daddy | Alexandra Cooper | Raw and explicit discussions on dating, relationships, and sex. |
SmartLess | Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, Will Arnett | Unpredictable and funny conversations with surprise guests from the entertainment industry. |
News and Current Affairs Podcasts
Stay informed and engaged with the latest news and current events through insightful and thought-provoking podcasts. These shows provide in-depth reporting, political discussions, and analysis across a wide range of topics. From major news stories to social issues, these podcasts offer perspectives from experienced journalists and experts.
The Daily
Hosted by The New York Times, “The Daily” offers extensive coverage and analysis of major news stories. Through interviews with journalists, experts, and newsmakers, this podcast dives deep into current events, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the topics at hand.
This American Life
“This American Life” goes beyond the headlines, exploring various aspects of American life, society, and culture through captivating narratives. Hosted by Ira Glass, this long-running podcast delves into a wide range of topics, offering unique insights and perspectives on contemporary issues.
Pod Save the UK
For those interested in British politics, “Pod Save the UK” offers hot political news, analysis, and discussions. Hosted by a team of experienced political commentators, this podcast covers the latest developments in UK politics, providing insights into the country’s political landscape.
Code Switch
Focusing on racial issues and their impact on society, “Code Switch” explores the intersection of race, culture, and identity. Hosted by journalists of color, this podcast unpacks complex topics, engages in conversations about race relations, and offers perspectives often overlooked in mainstream media.
News and Current Affairs Podcasts:
Podcast Name | Description |
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The Daily | Offers in-depth analysis of major news stories. |
This American Life | Explores various aspects of American life, society, and culture. |
Pod Save the UK | Covers hot political news in British politics. |
Code Switch | Focuses on racial issues and their impact on society. |
Music Podcasts
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of music with these captivating podcasts. From exploring music history to intimate interviews with musicians, these shows offer a deep dive into the art of sound. Whether you’re a fan of classic hits or eager to discover new releases, these podcasts have something for everyone.
“60 Songs That Explain the ’90s”
Take a nostalgic trip back to the ’90s with this delightful podcast that examines the cultural significance of 60 iconic songs from the decade. Each episode dissects a different song, exploring its impact on popular culture and providing insights into the music of the time.
“Black Girl Song Book”
Celebrate the incredible contributions of Black female artists with this empowering podcast. Through in-depth conversations and interviews, this show highlights the careers and artistry of Black women in the music industry, shedding light on their impact and influence.
“Class of 88 With Will Smith”
Explore the groundbreaking year of 1988 in hip-hop with actor and musician Will Smith. This podcast takes a deep dive into the music that defined the genre, delving into the artists, albums, and cultural moments that shaped hip-hop’s evolution.
“The New Yorker: Fiction”
Indulge in literary delights with “The New Yorker: Fiction” podcast. Each episode features renowned writers reading their short stories, accompanied by insightful discussions. Lose yourself in the captivating narratives and explore the intersection of music and storytelling.
Podcast | Description |
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“60 Songs That Explain the ’90s” | A fun and nostalgic exploration of ’90s music, decoding the cultural significance of 60 iconic songs. |
“Black Girl Song Book” | Celebrates and showcases the works of Black female artists, delving into their careers and contributions to the music industry. |
“Class of 88 With Will Smith” | An exploration of hip-hop’s defining year, 1988, with actor and musician Will Smith. |
“The New Yorker: Fiction” | Features audio readings of short stories by renowned writers, providing a unique blend of music and storytelling. |
These podcasts offer a rich tapestry of music-related content, connecting you with the history, stories, and artists behind the songs we love. Tune in and discover the transformative power of music podcasts.
Educational and Informative Podcasts
Expand your knowledge and discover new interests with educational podcasts that offer informative discussions and share interesting facts across a wide range of topics. These podcasts provide valuable insights and engage listeners with thought-provoking discussions. Whether you’re looking to learn about science, history, technology, or any other subject, there are educational podcasts that cater to your interests.
Recommended Educational Podcasts:
- Stuff You Should Know: In this podcast, hosts Josh and Chuck cover a wide range of topics, making complex subjects accessible and entertaining. From the mysteries of the universe to fascinating historical events, they dive into the curiosities of the world in an engaging and informative way.
- Ctrl Alt Delete: This podcast explores the impact of social and digital media on modern life and creativity. Hosted by Emma Gannon, each episode features interviews with experts, entrepreneurs, and creative minds who share their knowledge and insights on navigating the digital landscape.
- Search Engine: If you’ve ever searched the internet for fascinating questions and answers, this podcast is for you. Hosted by writer and comedian John Robertson, Search Engine dives deep into intriguing topics and provides informative explanations that satisfy your curiosity and expand your general knowledge.
Whether you are a lifelong learner or simply looking to broaden your horizons, these educational podcasts offer a wealth of information, all while entertaining and engaging listeners.
Podcast | Description |
---|---|
Stuff You Should Know | Hosts Josh and Chuck cover a wide range of topics, making complex subjects accessible and entertaining. |
Ctrl Alt Delete | Explores the impact of social and digital media on modern life and creativity. Features interviews with experts in various fields. |
Search Engine | Answers fascinating questions that you might have searched for on the internet, providing valuable insights and explanations. |
Popular Podcasts for Storytelling
If you enjoy captivating stories and personal narratives, storytelling podcasts are the perfect choice. These podcasts deliver compelling narratives, narrated by talented hosts and guests, that will keep you engaged from start to finish. If you’re looking for narrative nonfiction, personal stories, interviews, and captivating narratives, check out these popular storytelling podcasts:
“This American Life”
If you’re seeking the gold standard of narrative nonfiction, look no further than “This American Life.” Hosted by Ira Glass, this long-running podcast covers a wide range of stories and experiences, exploring various aspects of American life and society. From heartwarming tales to thought-provoking investigations, each episode delivers a unique and immersive storytelling experience.
“You’re Wrong About”
Challenging common misconceptions and debunking myths, “You’re Wrong About” takes a deep dive into various topics with engaging storytelling. Hosted by Michael Hobbes and Sarah Marshall, this podcast presents in-depth research on subjects often misunderstood by the public. With a mix of empathy, humor, and intellectual rigor, they shed light on historical events, cultural phenomena, and public figures.
“The New Yorker: Fiction”
Featuring fiction readings by renowned writers, “The New Yorker: Fiction” offers a captivating literary experience. Each episode highlights a short story published in The New Yorker, read by the author or a notable actor. If you appreciate beautifully crafted prose and imaginative storytelling, this podcast is sure to satisfy your literary cravings.
Immerse yourself in the world of storytelling with these popular podcasts. Whether you prefer narrative nonfiction, personal stories, interviews, or captivating fictional narratives, these podcasts offer a multitude of rich and engaging tales to satisfy your storytelling cravings.
True Crime Podcasts with a Twist
For true crime enthusiasts looking for something different, there are podcasts that explore unique and lesser-known aspects of crime. These podcasts provide a fresh perspective on true crime, covering a wide range of intriguing topics. Here are some recommendations:
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Sounds Like A Cult
“Sounds Like A Cult” analyzes pop culture phenomena and asks if they can be considered cults. Hosted by Jane Smith, this podcast delves into the fascinating dynamics of various fandoms, celebrity followings, and online movements. Join Jane as she uncovers the hidden layers of seemingly harmless obsessions.
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Death of An Artist
“Death of An Artist” examines the suspicious death of a rising star in the art world. Hosted by Mark Johnson, this podcast delves into the life and tragic demise of renowned painter Alex Green. Explore the dark underbelly of the art scene and unravel the mysteries surrounding the artist’s untimely demise.
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Hooked on Freddie
“Hooked on Freddie” tells the story of a man’s unusual relationship with a famous dolphin. Dive into the enigmatic world of Freddie the dolphin as host Sarah Thompson unravels the mysterious events surrounding his sudden disappearance. This podcast explores the intersection of true crime and the paranormal.
These true crime podcasts provide engaging narratives and shed light on lesser-known cases and intriguing phenomena. Tune in to uncover the hidden secrets and dark mysteries that lie beneath the surface.
Top-Rated Podcasts for Entertainment
If you’re a fan of entertainment news and celebrity culture, there are podcasts that offer exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and discussions about popular TV shows. These podcasts provide a unique insight into the world of entertainment and keep listeners entertained with their engaging content.
“The Joe Rogan Experience”
This podcast features in-depth conversations with a wide range of guests, from celebrities to experts in various fields. With its diverse lineup of guests and thought-provoking discussions, “The Joe Rogan Experience” offers a fascinating exploration of different aspects of entertainment and beyond. Whether you’re interested in hearing candid celebrity interviews or engaging in-depth conversations, this podcast has something for everyone.
“Office Ladies”
For fans of the hit TV show “The Office,” “Office Ladies” provides an inside look into the beloved series with personal anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories from cast members Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey. Dive into the world of Dunder Mifflin with this delightful podcast that offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane for fans and a behind-the-scenes peek for those curious about the making of the show.
These top-rated entertainment podcasts are perfect for anyone looking to stay updated on the latest celebrity news, dive deeper into their favorite TV shows, and discover exciting behind-the-scenes stories. Tune in to these podcasts and indulge in the world of entertainment from the comfort of your headphones.
Recommendations for Unique and Engaging Podcasts
Looking for something outside the mainstream? Dive into the world of unique podcasts that cover unusual topics and offer engaging stories. These hidden gems are sure to captivate your imagination and provide a fresh listening experience. Here are some recommendations:
Intriguing Insights with “Search Engine”
Explore intriguing questions searched on the internet with the podcast “Search Engine.” Hosted by [host’s name], this thought-provoking show delves into various fascinating topics and provides interesting insights. Discover captivating stories and explore the hidden depths of knowledge.
Humor and Bad Movies with “The Worst Idea of All Time”
If you’re in the mood for a good laugh, check out “The Worst Idea of All Time.” In this hilarious podcast, [host’s names] take a humorous approach to dissecting bad movies, providing witty commentary and reviews. Sit back, relax, and enjoy their entertaining take on cinema’s biggest flops.
Uncover the Lives of “Cool People Who Did Cool Stuff”
If you’re fascinated by history and remarkable achievements, “Cool People Who Did Cool Stuff” is a must-listen. Join [host’s name] as they shine a spotlight on extraordinary individuals throughout history who have made a significant impact. From unsung heroes to legendary trailblazers, this podcast celebrates inspiring stories of accomplishment and discovery.
These unique podcasts offer an escape from the ordinary, delivering engaging content and exciting exploration of unusual topics. Don’t miss out on these hidden gems that are sure to entertain, enlighten, and inspire you.
Conclusion
As the popularity of podcasts continues to soar, there is no shortage of options for you to explore. Whether you’re a true crime enthusiast, a comedy lover, a news junkie, a music aficionado, or someone seeking educational content, there are podcasts available to cater to your interests.
In this article, we have carefully curated a selection of the best podcasts across various genres and interests. These are the top picks, the must-listen shows that have received rave reviews from listeners. From gripping true crime stories to hilarious comedy conversations, from in-depth news analysis to fascinating music explorations, and from educational discussions to captivating narratives, these podcasts offer something for everyone.
So, why wait? Dive into the world of podcasts and discover your next audio obsession. Tune into these top-rated shows, and let them entertain and enlighten you. With our podcast recommendations, you can be sure that you are listening to the crème de la crème of the podcasting world. Get ready to embark on an engaging and informative journey through the fascinating world of podcasts.