The 15 Most Interesting Podcasts: The Ultimate Guide
Are you tired of scrolling endlessly through podcast apps, unsure of what to listen to next? Are you stuck in the algorithm feedback loop that leaves you listening to the same old thing?
You’re not alone.
Finding the most interesting podcasts can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
This guide will help you discover some truly captivating podcasts that are worth your time.
Table of Contents
Why Podcasts Are the Best Way to Learn and Be Entertained
Podcasts are more than just background noise.
They can be a source of inspiration, knowledge, and entertainment.
Think about it.
Where else can you learn about the history of ancient Rome while cooking dinner?
Or hear firsthand accounts of true crime stories on your morning commute?
Podcasts allow you to multitask while diving into a world of fascinating stories and insights.
Whether you’re into business, history, comedy, or science, there’s a podcast out there for you.
What Makes a Podcast Interesting?
An interesting podcast grabs your attention from the first minute and keeps you hooked until the end. People have 8 second attention spans, so the most interesting podcasts respect the listener’s time.
It’s all about storytelling, engaging hosts, and unique perspectives.
Let’s break it down:
- Compelling Stories: A good story can make even the driest topics interesting.
- Engaging Hosts: A great host can turn a simple interview into a riveting conversation.
- Unique Perspectives: Podcasts that offer fresh viewpoints on familiar topics stand out. This can be news, cultural discussions, history, or more.
But the most interesting podcasts take an oblique angle on the subject.
They challenge the listener.
The Top 14 Most Interesting Podcasts You Should Be Listening To
This American Life
Hosted by Ira Glass, this podcast explores a wide range of themes and stories that are both captivating and thought-provoking.
Each episode blends investigative journalism, essays, and memoirs that touch on universal human experiences.
Chartable Data: Consistently ranks in the top 10 for news and culture podcasts globally.
Serial
Hosted by Sarah Koenig, this true crime podcast redefined the genre and has kept listeners on the edge of their seats since its debut. Even if you aren’t a True Crime genre fan, this is one of the most interesting podcasts simply because it changed the game.
Each season explores a different real-life case, unraveling the complexities and mysteries involved.
Chartable Data: “Serial” has over 300 million total downloads and remains one of the most talked-about podcasts in the true crime genre.
Listen on Apple Podcasts.
Radiolab
For those who love science and philosophy, “Radiolab” is a must-listen.
Lulu Miller and Latif Nasser host the show, which makes complex topics accessible and engaging through a mix of storytelling and scientific inquiry.
The recent host change has been met with some mixed feedback. Changing hosts midstream certainly qualifies it to remain one of the most interesting podcasts.
Chartable Data: Regularly features in the top 50 podcasts across various categories.
Listen on Apple Podcasts.
The Daily
Stay updated with the most important news of the day with “The Daily.”
This podcast from The New York Times provides deep dives into current events with insightful analysis.
Hosted by Michael Barbaro, it offers a fresh perspective on the biggest stories of our time. And it does it in roughly 20 minutes a day. There’s no better way to get a handle on the day’s going ons.
Chartable Data: As of this writing, The Daily is the third most listened to podcast on Apple Podcasts. That’s impressive.
Listen to on Apple Podcasts.
How I Built This
If you’re into entrepreneurship and innovation, “How I Built This” will inspire you.
Host Guy Raz interviews the founders of some of the world’s most successful companies, delving into their journeys, challenges, and successes. In a capitalist economy, it ticks all the boxes for ranking as one of the most interesting podcasts.
Chartable Data: Frequently ranked in the top 20 for business podcasts, with over 200,000 downloads per episode.
Listen on Apple Podcasts.
Stuff You Should Know
Curious about how things work?
“Stuff You Should Know” covers everything from the history of sandwich bread to how black holes work.
Hosted by Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant, it makes learning fun and accessible.
Chartable Data: Has amassed over 1 billion downloads, making it one of the most listened-to podcasts globally.
Listen on Apple Podcasts.
The Joe Rogan Experience
Known for its long-form interviews, “The Joe Rogan Experience” covers a wide range of topics with various guests. And yeah, it’s the most popular podcast around, but that’s largely because it’s such an interesting podcast.
Hosted by comedian Joe Rogan, the podcast features deep, often controversial discussions on everything from politics to health and fitness. Some of the best Joe Rogan episodes are those where he gets heated with a guest, or when he covers more lofty topics like science.
This show is interesting. It’s divisive. It’s eclectic. And, most of all, it’s one of the most entertaining podcasts no matter how you lean.
Chartable Data: One of the most downloaded podcasts in the world. It holds the top spot on the Apple Charts.
Listen on Spotify.
TED Radio Hour
Love TED Talks?
“TED Radio Hour” brings those ideas to life in podcast form.
Hosted by Manoush Zomorodi, it features excerpts from TED Talks followed by interviews and deeper dives into the topics. It’s also worth checking out TED Talks Daily. One of the most interesting podcasts on the market.
Chartable Data: Consistently ranks in the top 50 for educational podcasts, with over 1 million downloads per episode.
Listen on Apple Podcasts.
Crime Junkie
True crime enthusiasts will love “Crime Junkie.”
Hosted by Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat, it’s addictive and well-researched, making it one of the most interesting podcasts in the genre.
Each episode tells a gripping story that will keep you hooked.
Chartable Data: Regularly features in the top 10 true crime podcasts, with episodes often surpassing 500,000 downloads.
Listen on Apple Podcasts.
You Must Remember This
This podcast dives into the secret and forgotten history of Hollywood’s first century.
Hosted by Karina Longworth, it’s a fascinating listen for movie buffs and history enthusiasts alike. This one is a little different, but we, as a country, have a wide fascination with Hollywood. Knowing the history is usually worth knowing.
Chartable Data: Frequently ranked in the top 20 for film history podcasts.
Listen on Apple Podcasts.
Freakonomics Radio
If you’re fascinated by the hidden side of everything, “Freakonomics Radio” is for you.
Hosted by Stephen J. Dubner, it explores the oddities and unexpected truths of various topics, often challenging conventional wisdom. Challenging assumptions is always a worthy task. This show will give you that mind blowing type of subject matter. What more do you want in your most interesting podcasts?
Chartable Data: Consistently ranked in the top 30 for economics and business podcasts.
Listen on Apple Podcasts.
Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard
Hosted by Dax Shepard, “Armchair Expert” dives into honest and deep conversations with celebrities, journalists, and academics.
It’s insightful and often hilarious, offering a raw look into the lives and minds of its guests.
Chartable Data: Often ranks in the top 20 for society and culture podcasts.
Listen on Apple Podcasts.
The Moth
For fans of storytelling, “The Moth” features people telling true stories from their lives.
It’s raw, real, and incredibly moving, capturing the essence of the human experience.
Chartable Data: One of the top storytelling podcasts, ranking in the top 100 for all podcasts, and number 1 for performing arts.
Listen on Apple Podcasts.
WTF with Marc Maron
Hosted by comedian Marc Maron, this podcast features in-depth interviews with a wide range of guests, including celebrities, musicians, and fellow comedians.
Known for its candid and often emotional conversations, “WTF with Marc Maron” is a must-listen for anyone interested in the personal stories behind public figures.
Chartable Data: Frequently in the top 50 for comedy podcasts, ranking 26th at the time of this writing.
Listen on Apple Podcasts.
Qanon Anonymous Podcast
If you’re curious about conspiracy theories and the impact they have on society, “QAnon Anonymous” is a must-listen.
Hosted by Julian Feeld, Travis View, and Jake Rockatansky, this podcast delves into the world of QAnon, exploring its origins, growth, and influence through insightful analysis and thorough research.
Chartable Data: Frequently features in the top 100 for society and culture podcasts, though not always. Fluctuating as high as 200.
It goes to show that not every interesting pod is going to be the most well-ranked. That doesn’t mean they aren’t worth listening.
Listen on Apple Podcasts.
How to Choose the Right Podcast for You
With so many options, how do you find the most interesting podcasts for your tastes?
Here are some tips:
- Identify Your Interests: Are you into true crime, history, science, or something else?
- Read Reviews: Check out what other listeners are saying.
- Listen to a Few Episodes: Before you commit, try listening to a few episodes. Even listening to the snippets or clips can give you an idea.
- Check Episode Length: Make sure the podcast fits into your schedule.
FAQs About Podcasts
Q: How do I start listening to podcasts?
A: It’s easy!
You can listen to podcasts on various platforms like Spotify (the largest), Apple Podcasts (the OG), and a number of other podcatcher apps.
Just search for the podcast you’re interested in and hit play. Or check out our guide for the best Android podcast apps. Or our guide on listening to podcasts for the first time.
Q: Are podcasts free?
A: Most podcasts are free to listen to.
Some offer premium content for a subscription fee. While most podcasts are supported by ads or sponsorships, some will have a “paywall” or ask for contributions through platforms like Patreon.
Q: Can I download podcasts for offline listening?
A: Yes, most podcast apps allow you to download episodes for offline listening. Some apps add this as a feature in their paid or premium plans. Again, it’s a business, but this is a very convenient feature.
Q: How often are new episodes released?
A: It varies. Some podcasts release new episodes weekly, while others might have different schedules. A quality podcaster will have some regularity to their release schedule.
Why You Should Start Listening to Podcasts Today
Podcasts are a fantastic way to learn new things, stay entertained, and make the most of your time.
Whether you’re driving, exercising, or just relaxing at home, there’s always a podcast to keep you company.
So why wait?
Start exploring the most interesting podcasts today and find your new favorite.
Remember, the world of podcasts is vast and diverse.
There’s something out there for everyone. There are a ton of genres and categories we haven’t covered in this vast, and I do mean vast, podcast landscape.
From true crime to comedy, history to science, the most interesting podcasts are just a click away.
The most interesting podcasts can change the way you see the world.
Be sure to check back often as we often find new gems to add to this list. Join our email list below, or follow us on (ugh…) X. No, it’s still Twitter.
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