20 great podcasts for listeners who love good stories (2023)

Now that summer is here, many of us have the opportunity to spend some extra time doing media research we missed out on in recent months. This is especially true of podcasts, which are perfect for killing time during a long trip or while waiting for an airport layover.

A good story makes any podcast more compelling, and these 20 podcasts are essential for anyone who appreciates a good story. From fictional scary stories to real love stories, add these story-driven shows to your queue ASAP.

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Serial

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Series/Facebook

The first season of "Serial," which may have sparked renewed interest in podcasts after its 2014 release, follows the murder of Hae Min Lee, a Baltimore County teenager, and there are a number of twists and turns along the way. Later seasons follow accused Army deserter Bowe Bergdahl and the people incarcerated at the Cleveland Justice Center Complex. Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and every other major platform.

2 of 20

doctor's death

20 great podcasts for listeners who love good stories (2)

Dr. Tod/Facebook

This moving podcast by Wondery tells the story of Texas physician Christopher Duntsch, who maimed and killed over 30 patients during his time as a spine surgeon. "Dr. Filled with interviews from those affected by Duntsch's carnage and the Dallas doctors who tried to stop it, 'Death' is both a riveting audio sampler and an indictment of the American health care system. Before airing the new Peacock series based on the podcast, listen on Wondery, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and all other major platforms.

3 of 20

dirty john

20 great podcasts for listeners who love good stories (3)

João Sujo/Facebook

In one of those stories that really are too weird to be true, Dirty John is based on a true story originally reported by the Los Angeles Times. On the podcast, listeners hear the increasingly twisted ways in which con man John Meehan instigates his way into the life of Debra Newell, a wealthy Newport Beach woman who quickly fell in love with it. Be sure to listen to the seriously shocking ending. Listen to Apple Podcasts, Spotify and all other major platforms.

4 of 20

this american life

20 great podcasts for listeners who love good stories (4)

(Video) 12 Podcasts that Changed My Life

This American Life/Facebook

This American Life is a continuation of the long-running National Public Radio series and one of the leading narrative podcasts. Here, the stories range from author Lindy West's confrontation with a hateful online troll to exploring the true meaning of "camp." Stream from the NPR app, Apple Podcasts and every other major platform.

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suburban town

20 great podcasts for listeners who love good stories (5)

Podcast/Facebook de S-Town

One of the most iconic narrative podcasts in the history of the genre, S-Town was downloaded over 10 million times in the days following its 2017 release. Follow the story of John B. McLemore, an eccentric watchmaker who originally came to the show to investigate a murder in their small Alabama town. Without spoiling anything, suffice it to say that the story is far more complicated. Stream via NPR, Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

6 of 20

good partit's america

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Christine Carvalho/WNYC/Official Photo

This 2019 podcast is a must have for anyone who considers themselves a fan of Dolly Parton, one of the most enduring icons of American pop culture. Dolly Parton's America delves into Parton's humble Appalachian roots, her incredible songwriting skills, and much more. Listen to podcasts from Apple or Spotify.

7 of 20

Live and die in Los Angeles

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Live and Die in Los Angeles/Facebook

One of the more creative entries in the true crime drama is To Live and Die in L.A., which follows the mysterious disappearance of actress Adea Shabani. Host Neil Strauss enlists family friends and a private investigator to investigate a very complicated case. Listen to Apple Podcasts, Spotify and all other major platforms.

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quick judgment

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(Video) What really matters at the end of life | BJ Miller

Quick Verdict/Facebook

Snap Judgment is a weekly radio show and podcast, and however you choose to listen to it, this amazing storytelling show is definitely worth watching. The stories here really range from an in-depth look at the US Census to very personal stories about sex, love, and life. Listen to Apple Podcasts, Spotify and all other major platforms.

9 of 20

answer all

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Reply All/Facebook

This Gimlet podcast focuses on digital stories and goes in-depth on just about everything you don't understand about the Internet. Released in 2014, there are over 150 answer-to-all episodes for newcomers to delve into, making it perfect for summer binges. Listen through the Gimlet app, Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

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funk laboratory

20 great podcasts for listeners who love good stories (10)

Radiolabor/Facebook

Widely considered one of the best podcasts of all genres, "Radiolab" began as a WNYC program in 2002. It's now a podcast listening essential, a great choice for anyone who likes to think deeply about big things. Listen through the NPR app, Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

11 of 20

Welcome to the valley of the night

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Welcome to Nightvale/Facebook

This fictional podcast is definitely a little weird. Stylized like an old school radio show, it's set in the town of Night Vale and tells the story of all the weird things that happen in this really weird place. A little scare, a little humor, this is definitely a must-read for anyone who appreciates the weird. Listen to podcasts on Apple, Spotify and all major streaming platforms.

12 of 20

as butterflies

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(Video) Who’s Getting Married Next? | 8 Ball Special - Episode 10

As Butterflies/Facebook

A fixture on the storytelling scene since the late 1990s, The Moth is a New York-based collective focused on live events and a podcast dedicated to good stories. In general, the stories are true, but always fun. Listen to podcasts on Apple, Spotify and all major streaming platforms.

13 of 20

Ashamed: The Podcast

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embarrassed/Facebook

Everyone has had an embarrassing moment, but on Mortified, people all over the world share their most embarrassing moments. Episodes of this show, based on the live events of the same name, are always funny and sometimes leave the listener with a new perspective on life. Listen to Apple Podcasts, Spotify and all other major streaming platforms.

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You are wrong

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Spotify

In this podcast, host Sarah Marshall dives into the stories you think you know everything. Topics range from demystifying the panic of cancel culture to stories about some of pop culture's most misunderstood figures, including Princess Diana, Courtney Love and Anna Nicole Smith. Listen to Apple Podcasts, Spotify and all other streaming platforms.

15 of 20

busy ear

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Catchy Melody/Facebook

Ear Hustle tells the true stories of people incarcerated at San Quentin State Penitentiary and what it's like to be incarcerated in America. The podcast also looks at what happens to ex-convicts after they are released and is a must-read for anyone interested in the criminal justice system. Listen to Apple Podcasts, Spotify and all other major platforms.

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smoldering

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(Video) The history of our world in 18 minutes | David Christian

Site oficial do Slow Burn

Can't resist a juicy political drama? A slow burn is a must. The first season of the series delves deep into the Watergate scandal that forced the resignation of President Richard Nixon. Later seasons discuss the chargeBill Clintonand the rise of Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke, which is well worth listening to. Stream from Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all other major streaming platforms.

17 of 20

In the dark

20 great podcasts for listeners who love good stories (17)

Not dark/Facebook

It's perfectly fine to start with season two of In The Dark, which offers a glimpse into one of the most controversial crime cases of the last century. The podcast follows Curtis Flowers, a man convicted of a quadruple murder that he says he didn't commit six times. It's an incredible look at the justice system that made a difference in real life. No spoilers here, but the result is remarkable. Listen to Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all other major streaming platforms.

18 of 20

The 1619 project

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Spotify

Part of a major journalistic effort by Nikole Hannah-Jones at The New York Times, the companion podcast to The 1619 Project examines the history of American slavery. Listen to Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and all other major streaming platforms.

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modern love

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Modern Love on Spotify

Who doesn't love a good love story? An offshoot of the New York Times column of the same name, Modern Love explores relationships of all kinds, both their trials and triumphs. Listen to Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and all other major streaming platforms.

20 of 20

welcome to your imagination

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(Video) After watching this, your brain will not be the same | Lara Boyd | TEDxVancouver

Denise Trucello/Getty Images para Chippendales

This Spotify newcomer is a pretty sordid story. It traces the history of the legendary Chippendales nightclub, known for its muscular male strippers, and the tragic history that followed. Murder, sex and intrigue abound here, making "Welcome To Your Fantasy" a must-see.

FAQs

What is the #1 podcast in the world? ›

Top podcasts
Podcast Industry Ranking
Top 20 Podcasts
RankPodcastPublisher
1The DailyThe New York Times
2MorbidWondery
20 more rows

How do I find podcasts that interest me? ›

The quickest and easiest way to find podcasts is Google. Just choose your niche, and type in “business podcasts,” “health podcasts,” “relationship podcasts,” or whichever topic interests you the most. Google isn't your only choice, though.

Who has the highest rated podcast? ›

Top 100 US Podcasts (Apple Podcasts Top Charts)
  • Podcast Name: Stolen Hearts. Network/Artist: Wondery.
  • Podcast Name: Dateline NBC. ...
  • Podcast Name: Huberman Lab. ...
  • Podcast Name: The Daily. ...
  • Podcast Name: New Heights with Jason and Travis Kelce. ...
  • Podcast Name: Crime Junkie. ...
  • Podcast Name: Morbid. ...
  • Podcast Name: The Mel Robbins Podcast.
Jan 12, 2023

What is the best thing to listen to podcasts on? ›

The best podcast app doesn't come from Apple or Google
  • Pocket Casts. Best podcast app overall. View now.
  • Spotify. Best podcast app with music. View now.
  • Audible. Best podcast app with books. View now.
  • Google Podcasts. Best reliable podcast app. View now.
  • Apple Podcasts. Best podcast app for Apple users. View now.
Nov 4, 2022

What are the top 10 podcasts in America? ›

14 Most Popular Podcasts for 2023
  • Joe Rogan Experience.
  • The Daily.
  • This American Life.
  • Stuff You Should Know.
  • PodSaveAmerica.
  • The Ben Shapiro Show.
  • Call Her Daddy.
  • Office Ladies.
Feb 6, 2023

What are the top five most listened to podcast? ›

The Top 50 Most Listened To Podcasts in the U.S. Q3 2022
  • The Joe Rogan Experience.
  • Crime Junkie.
  • The Daily.
  • This American Life.
  • The Ben Shapiro Show (up from #7 in Q2)
  • Stuff You Should Know.
  • My Favorite Murder (down from #5 in Q2)
  • Morbid: A True Crime Podcast (up from #9 in Q2)
Dec 15, 2022

How can I find a list of podcasts? ›

So without further ado, let's dive in to this list!
  1. Stitcher. Stitcher is one of the most popular podcast directories and podcast listening apps currently available. ...
  2. Apple Podcasts. ...
  3. Spotify. ...
  4. Google Podcasts App. ...
  5. TuneIn. ...
  6. Blubrry. ...
  7. PodBean Podcast App. ...
  8. RadioPublic.
Jan 5, 2023

Where can I find positive podcasts? ›

  • PositivePsychology.com Podcast. ...
  • The Science of Happiness. ...
  • The Psychology Podcast. ...
  • All in the Mind. ...
  • Speaking of Psychology. ...
  • The Happiness Lab With Dr. ...
  • The Positive Psychology Podcast. ...
  • Nothing Much Happens.

What kind of podcasts are in demand? ›

According to Statista's 2021 reports, the top 5 podcast topics include comedy, news, true crime, sport, and health/fitness. So, if you are specialized in one of these spheres, don't waste time and record your first episode right away.

Who is the king of podcasts? ›

Joe Rogan: How the 'cage fighting commentator and dirty stand-up comedian' became the king of podcasting.

What is the number 1 Apple podcast? ›

1 ▶–Serial Productions & The New York Times The Coldest Case In Laramie
2 ▶–Luna Shark Murdaugh Murders Podcast
3 ▶–NBC News Dateline NBC
4 ▲1audiochuck | Western Sound Strangeland
5 ▶–audiochuck Crime Junkie
95 more rows

What is the most listened to podcast right now? ›

  • The Coldest Case In Laramie. Society & Culture, True Crime 23 Feb. ...
  • Dateline NBC. True Crime, News 1 Mar. ...
  • The Daily. News 5 Mar. ...
  • Crime Junkie. True Crime 2 Mar. ...
  • Strangeland. True Crime 2 Mar. ...
  • Morbid. Comedy, True Crime 3 Mar. ...
  • SmartLess. Comedy, Education 28 Feb. ...
  • Sword and Scale Nightmares.

What are the most listened to podcast topics? ›

What are the Top Podcast Topics and Ideas of 2022
  • Advice. Are you an expert in a particular field? ...
  • Celebrity Interviews. Invite movie actors, singers, and famous artists to your show. ...
  • Q&A (Ask Me Anything) ...
  • Celebrity News. ...
  • True Crime. ...
  • Talk to People in a Train or Bus. ...
  • Books Review. ...
  • Movies.

What is the most watched podcast in the world? ›

These are the most popular podcasts in the world, many with millions of downloads per episode.
  1. The Joe Rogan Experience. ...
  2. The Daily. ...
  3. This American Life. ...
  4. Crime Junkie. ...
  5. Call Her Daddy. ...
  6. Office Ladies. ...
  7. Stuff You Should Know. ...
  8. Pod Save America.
7 days ago

Who is the most popular podcast in the US? ›

The top 10 shows based on measurement from Q3 2021 – Q2 2022 are as follows: The Joe Rogan Experience. Crime Junkie. The Daily.

Who is the world's biggest podcaster? ›

Joe Rogan Experience: Spotify No. 1 Most Popular Podcast in 2022 - Variety.

What is the most popular podcast platform? ›

The best podcast hosting companies as of March 2023 are:
  • Buzzsprout.
  • Captivate.
  • Transistor.
  • Castos.
  • RSS.com.
  • Podbean.
  • Resonate.
Jan 12, 2023

Is there a directory for podcasts? ›

What Are Podcast Directories? A podcast directory is a listening app; it's the place where podcasts and their listeners meet. Podcast listeners search for, subscribe to, and listen to your podcast using their podcast directory of choice. Popular podcast directories include Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.

How do I find the name of a podcast that isn't taken? ›

Do some investigating online to confirm that your podcast name isn't already taken. Try searching “[your name idea]” + “podcast” in Google and see what comes up.

What can I listen to to make me happy? ›

There is a way to remind yourself that happiness is everywhere and that you just have to find it: happiness podcasts!
  • Happier with Gretchen Rubin.
  • The Good Life Project.
  • TED Radio Hour.
  • The School of Greatness with Lewis Howes.
  • 10% Happier with Dan Harris.
  • Invisibilia.
  • The Science of Happiness.
  • The Tony Robbins Podcast.
Oct 24, 2022

Is there a podcast on mental health? ›

Welcome to the 'Let's Talk: Mental Health' podcast, where we get together with different people and experts to chat about mental health. We all have mental health, and we can all experience mental health problems. So on this podcast we explore the topics that can affect how we think and feel.

How do you get a positive attitude podcast? ›

11 Of The Best Podcasts To Get You Feeling More Positive
  1. The Rich Roll Podcast.
  2. Motivation Daily By Motiversity.
  3. How To Build A Happy Life.
  4. Daily Stoic With Ryan Holiday.
  5. The School of Greatness.
  6. Law of Attraction Changed My Life.
  7. How To Fail With Elizabeth Day.
  8. On Purpose With Jay Shetty.
Nov 30, 2021

What is a storytelling podcast? ›

A storytelling podcast is any show where episodes are structured as narratives. Each episode could be its own complete narrative, but in some cases, multiple episodes (or entire seasons!) are strung together to form a broad, cohesive narrative.

What are 3 common types of podcasts? ›

Nonfiction narrative story-telling. Fictional story-telling. Hybrid.

What genre of podcast is most listened to with others? ›

Comedy is Top Podcast Genre in U.S.

Who is the father of podcasts? ›

Adam Curry and Dave Winer are credited with the invention of podcasting.

Who is Joe Rogan's wife? ›

What do you call a person who runs a podcast? ›

Host. The host is, naturally, the person out front, setting the editorial tone of the show. As the voice most synonymous with a podcast, they carry the majority of the audience-facing responsibilities—basically, they are the storyteller, and they shape the show through their editorial decisions and personality.

What is the most valuable podcast? ›

We considered a variety of factors while compiling this list including sponsorship value, affiliate marketing, and the sales of related products and services.
  • 1) The Joe Rogan Experience. ...
  • 2) The Daily. ...
  • 3) Crime Junkie. ...
  • 4) This American Life. ...
  • 6) My Favorite Murder. ...
  • 7) Pod Save America. ...
  • 8) Office Ladies. ...
  • 9) Serial.
Sep 22, 2022

Who is the most popular podcast on Spotify? ›

The top podcasts on Spotify, ranked
  • Stuck with Damon Young. ...
  • Nosy Neighbors. ...
  • Not Past It. ...
  • FOGO: Fear of Going Outside. ...
  • Renegades: Born in the USA. ...
  • Every Little Thing. ...
  • Son of a Hitman. ...
  • Red Frontier.
Jan 6, 2023

What is the most downloaded podcast episodes of all time? ›

What is the most downloaded podcast episode of all time? This American Life is the most downloaded podcast of all time with more than 2 million people downloading it. What is the #1 podcast in the world? The Daily, Published by New York Times is the #1 podcast in the world.

What is the most popular podcast topic? ›

What are the Top Podcast Topics and Ideas of 2022
  • Advice. Are you an expert in a particular field? ...
  • Celebrity Interviews. Invite movie actors, singers, and famous artists to your show. ...
  • Q&A (Ask Me Anything) ...
  • Celebrity News. ...
  • True Crime. ...
  • Talk to People in a Train or Bus. ...
  • Books Review. ...
  • Movies.

Who are the most famous podcasts? ›

The 12 Most Popular Podcasts
  1. The Joe Rogan Experience. The Joe Rogan Experience is a popular podcast hosted by comedian and UFC commentator Joe Rogan. ...
  2. The Daily. ...
  3. This American Life. ...
  4. Crime Junkie. ...
  5. Call Her Daddy. ...
  6. Office Ladies. ...
  7. Stuff You Should Know. ...
  8. Pod Save America.
7 days ago

What are the names of a few of the most popular podcasts right now? ›

The 10 Most Popular Podcasts 2022
  • THE JOE ROGAN EXPERIENCE. Hosted by Joe Rogan.
  • CRIME JUNKIE. Hosted by Ashley Flowers & Brit Prawat.
  • CALL HER DADDY. Hosted by Alexandra Cooper.
  • MY FAVORITE MURDER. Hosted by Karen Kilgariff & Georgia Hardstark.
  • THE BEN SHAPIRO SHOW. ...
  • THE DAILY. ...
  • OFFICE LADIES. ...
  • POD SAVE AMERICA.
Jan 30, 2023

Videos

1. These Stupid Trucks are Literally Killing Us
(Not Just Bikes)
2. "Everything happens for a reason" -- and other lies I've loved | Kate Bowler
(TED)
3. Robert Waldinger: What makes a good life? Lessons from the longest study on happiness | TED
(TED)
4. When the Moon Turns to Blood w/ Leah Sottile on Daybell & Vallow | MS Book Club | Ep. 1735
(Mormon Stories Podcast)
5. 8 Thoughts to Keep Your Mindset Positive
(The Mike Ferry Organization)
6. The Wild Ethics Of Human Genetic Enhancement - Dr Jonathan Anomaly | Modern Wisdom Podcast 598
(Chris Williamson)

References

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