Best Podcasts – 100 of The Top Podcast Picks

Across The 20 Most Popular Categories

What is the one thing you want when you listen to a podcast? If you answered “Good Content!” then let’s get straight into it! If you didn’t, then I have two words for you, “Wrong Answer!” And now we can continue, all on the same page. (LOL!)

The staggering number of active podcasts (over 525,00), and their episodes (over 18 million), that get published daily show no signs of slowing down. If you’re already an avid listener of podcasts, then you know how easy it is to navigate the top directories and discover new best podcasts every day.

But then you’d also know that this is not such a great idea because you spend more time browsing than you do listening to! Or, if you’re like me, you’ll start listening to the latest episode of some interesting looking podcast (yes, the cover art does matter!) And then decide after 30 seconds it doesn’t sound that interesting. But only because you were still browsing and another podcast caught your eye (yes, catchy/concise titles matter too!)

Best Podcasts
100 Best Podcasts across the 20 most popular categories

So I went on my own mission impossible to come up with the most exciting, hilarious, informative, gripping, best podcasts that get made for our sheer listening pleasure.

How was this list of 100 Best Podcasts was compiled?

Read more about

Our daily commutes and exercise sessions only give us so much precious time. Right? And when we discover a really great series, binge-listening has to be squeezed in between classes or cooking or school runs.

With podcast popularity at an all-time high, recommendations from various sources are welcome reprieves. So here’s what I did:

This Top 100 Podcasts for 2020 is based on the recommendations of

  • 10 quality articles,
  • top choices from over 5 directories,
  • scouring over 5 podcast awards for their winners and nominees as far back as they go and
  • going through the category list of Apples Preview page, which I found most helpful but so time-consuming!
  • I also checked out various podcast production companies like Wondery, Earwolf, iHeartRadio, Parcast, and a whole bunch more.
  • I downloaded different listening apps like Pocket Casts, iTunes, Spotify, Podbean, Castbox, and Podbyte. To see how they compare and how similar their top picks are. Some gave stats on how many subscribers and plays each podcast had received since inception, which indicated how popular they are.
  • And last but not least, I listened to snippets of each podcast so I could verify the sound quality and content. (I personally can’t listen to potty-mouthed hosts. Chelsea Handler is my only exception.)

The podcasts that Americans listen to differ quite a bit from podcasts that rate high in the UK. The podcasts that feature in this article are mainly aimed at American audiences, but I’ve snuck a few UK and Australian gems in too.

Read more about

Most podcasts sell ads, but some listening apps, like Stitcher, offer premium packages that either cut down on the number of ads per episode or omit them completely. But you can fast forward past the ads and keep using the free version. Read more about: How To Make Money Blogging.

I’ve also listed the number of subscribers and the number of listens to each podcast, where I could. These figures are from January 2020.

I’ve taken all these variables into account and come up with this riveting list of podcast brilliance for your perusal!

100 Best Podcasts for 2020 By Category



Category: TV and Films


This genre is very much a review platform. If you love background stories, opinions and critiques of popular TV shows and films, or listening to well-known celebrities chat with each other, you’ll find some good stuff. With a very varied content structure ranging from news, entertainment, politics, pop culture and more, the following shows won’t disappoint;

1. Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen – #1 of the Best Podcasts

Best podcasts to choose
Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen

• Produced by Bravo TV.
• Episodes are published daily.
• Over 477 episodes have aired so far.
• The show has been running since October 30, 2017.
• Episode length: Around 20-30 minutes.
• Hosted by Andy Cohen.
• 7.8 K subscribers.
• 232.7 K listens.

Guests include Hollywood celebs like Donnie Wahlberg, Whoopi Goldberg, Jimmy Fallon, Jeff Goldblum, Michael Rappaport, Alan Cumming, Kim Kardashian, Mellissa Gorga and more.

2. Ellen on the Go – #2 of the Best Podcasts

Best Podcats to listen
Ellen on the Go

• Produced by WAD Productions and Wondery.
• Episodes are published twice a week.
• Over 120 episodes have aired so far.
• The show has been running since September 10, 2018.
• Episode length: Between 25-40 minutes.
• Hosted by Ellen’s executive producers, Ed, Mary, Andy, and Kevin.
• 78.9 K subscribers.
• 1.4 M listens.

Clips from the weekly TV shows get played and feature Ellen’s uber-famous guests.

3. The Rewatchables – #3 of the Best Podcasts

Best Podcasts in 2020
The Rewatchables

• Produced by StateFarm in conjunction with The Ringer podcast network and Bill Simmons.
• Episodes are released weekly.
• Over 100 episodes have aired so far.
• The show has been running since August 7, 2017.
• Episode length: Between 90 – 120 minutes.
• Hosted by Bill Simmons and other Ringer collaborators, with a few film buffs, like Tarantino, making appearances to discuss their favorite old movies.
• 53.8 K subscribers.
• 761.5 listens.

All about movies that we love! Great facts and trivia on real classics ranging from A Few Good Men, The Departed, Silence of the Lambs, and Speed to You Got Mail, Forrest Gump, and Jaws.

4. Unspooled

Best Podcasts for uou
Unspooled

• Produced by Earwolf, with Paul Scheer and Amy Nicholson.
• Episodes are released weekly.
• Over 90 episodes have aired so far.
• The show started on May 17, 2018.
• Episode length: 60 to 90 minutes.
• Hosted by movie buff, Paul Scheer, and film critic, Amy Nicholson.
• 25.5 K subscribers.
• 342.4 K listens.

This podcast brings old, forgotten movie classics back to life. It reminds us why they are so good. Dissect movies like Citizen Cane, Titanic, Taxi Driver, Saving Private Ryan, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, and other high caliber productions.

5. You Must Remember This

Top Podcasts ever
You Must Remember This

• Produced by Stitcher and part of the Panoply Network.
• Episodes are released weekly.
• Over 155 episodes aired so far.
• The show started in April 2014.
• Episode length: 35 – 45 minutes.
• Hosted and created by the founder of cinematical.com and former film critic, Karina Longworth.
• 93.4 K subscribers.
• 536.4 K listens.

Longworth tells the stories of ‘Old Hollywood”. Well-researched and investigated, each episode highlights the stars and their work in 20th century Hollywood. Researched, written, narrated, and edited by Karina.

Revisit the lives of Judy Garland and Isabella Rossellini. Delve into movies like “Song of the South,” Disney’s most controversial film ever made. Get enthralled with loads of series; that have titles like Dead Blondes and Fake News: Fact-checking Hollywood Babylon.

Longworth tells stories filled with intrigue and political incorrectness. And tales tinged with the promise of unearthing Hollywood conspiracies and rumors.



Category: True Crime


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This popular podcast genre is packed with chilling and macabre facts, mysteries, and discoveries of crimes, both past and present. Usually murder. What is it that keeps us so intrigued by the dark side of human nature? The best true crime podcasts vary from polished and riveting to gritty and suspenseful.

Whether you are obsessed with serial killers, forensics, or the psychology of the criminal mind, there are true crime podcasts to suit all tastes. True crime podcasts often appear in the Society and Culture categories, especially when it is a crime of fraud instead of murder. Or a fictionalized version.

6. The Vanished (also filed under Society and Culture)

The Vanished - Top Podcast site
The Vanished

• Produced by Wondery.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Anything from 15 minutes to 1 hour.
• The show started on January 1, 2016.
• Over 198 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Marissa Jones.
• 66.2 K subscribers.
• 2 M listens.

Each episode deals with a missing persons case and explores, in-depth, the interviews, stories, and investigations of these cases.

7. American Jihadi

American Jihadi podcast
American Jihadi podcast

• Produced by Christof Putzel, Endeavor Audio, and 222 Productions.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Just under 30 min.
• The show started: November 4, 2019.
• 7 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Christof Putzel.
• 3.6 K subscribers.
• 36.5 K listens.

Story of how Omar Hammami, a Southern Baptist, became one of the FBI’s most wanted Islamist terrorists and the relationship he formed with the host until it all ended abruptly.

8. Dr. Death – best podcasts

Dr. Death podcast
Dr. Death podcast

• Produced by Wondery.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Between 30 and 40 min.
• The show started: September 4, 2018.
• 10 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Laura Bell.
• 436.6 K subscribers.
• 4.6 M listens.

Christopher Duntsch, a neurosurgeon, hailed as a genius, leaves 33 patients disillusioned, in a system that cannot protect them.

9. Sword and Scale

Sword and Scale Top podcasts
Sword and Scale

You may also like

• Produced by Mike Boudet and Incongruity.
• Episodes published fortnightly.
• Episode length: About 1 hour.
• The show started: January 8, 2014.
• Over 153 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Mike Boudet.
• 370.4 K subscribers.
• 7.3 M listens.

The worst of real crime monsters. Rape, torture, cannibalism. All true.

10. Hunting Warhead – #10 of the Best Podcasts

Hunting Warhead podcast
Hunting Warhead

• Produced by CBC Podcasts and Norwegian newspaper VG.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: 50 minutes to 1 hour.
• The show started: November 4, 2019.
• 6 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Daemon Fairless.
• 12.6 K subscribers.
• 78.5 K listens.

Global investigations into criminal syndicates and human trafficking. Investigators, criminals, and survivors tell their stories.

11. Up and Vanished – best podcasts

Best Podcasts - Up and Vanished
Up and Vanished

• Produced by Tenderfoot TV.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Between 25 and 50 minutes.
• The show started: August 7, 2016.
• Over 99 episodes aired so far.
• S2 was followed by Trial updates from S1. Up and Vanished ended on May 24, 2019.
• Hosted by Payne Lindsey, filmmaker.
• 698.5 K subscribers.
• 5.8 M listens.

2 Seasons. 2 Cold Cases. S1 deals with the 11-year-old case of Tara Grinstead, a missing teacher, and ex-pageant queen. S2 follows the disappearance of Colorado mom, Kristal Reisinger. Solid investigative reporting.

12. Twisted Love: Bringing a Murderer to Justice

One of the best crime podcast
Twisted Love: Bringing a Murderer to Justice

• Produced by Dr. Phil McGraw.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Around 30 – 60 minutes.
• The show started: April 25, 2019.
• Over 38 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Dr. Phil.
• 75.4 K subscribers.
• 1.1 M listens.

Each season has 5 episodes and deals with one murder. Dr. Phil takes us into the minds of notorious killers and goes behind the scenes to bring us new insights into how these killers think.

13. Over My Dead Body

Over My Dead Body - Crime podcast
Over My Dead Body

• Produced by Wondery.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Around 40 minutes.
• The show started: February 12, 2019.
• Over 23 episodes aired so far. (Of which 4 are trailers for the existing podcast and two other Wondery True Crime podcasts.)
• Season 1 was reported by Matthew Shaer and Eric Benson, and hosted by Matthew Shaer. Season 2 was reported and hosted by Rob Moor.
• 160.7 K subscribers.
• 2.3 M listens.

Season 1 covered 2 murders. The first was titled, Tally. Tally has a perfect couple, a divorce, and then a crime. It ran over 7 episodes. The second murder ran over 2 episodes and was titled the Prodfather. Season 2 tells the tale of Joe Exotic. 7 episodes tell of the exotic animal breeder, the enemies he made, and boundaries that were pushed beyond limits. Season 1 returned on September 27, 2019, with 4 short episodes on Tally’s Trial updates. The last episode ended on November 27, 2019.

14. The Drop Out

The Drop Out
The Drop Out

• Produced by Victoria Thompson, Taylor Dunn, and ABC News. Correspondent, Rebecca Jarvis.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: 40 minutes.
• The show started: January 23, 2019.
• The series has 6 chapters.
• Hosted by Rebecca Jarvis.
• 227.1 K subscribers.
• 1 M listens.

Follow the 3-year long investigation into the crimes of self-made billionaire Elizabeth Holmes and her fraudulent medical research company, Theranos. Listen to the deposition testimony of Holmes. Aired for the first time.

15. True Crime Garage – best podcasts

True Crime Garage
True Crime Garage

• Initially hosted by Podbean, now with Stitcher.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Around 1 hour.
• The show started: November 25, 2015.
• Over 367 episodes aired so far (Full archive only on Stitcher)
• Hosted by Nic and the Captain.
• 152.9 K subscribers.
• 4.6 M listens.

Nic and the Captain chat crime. An interactive podcast with craft beer, serial killers, cold cases, missing persons, mysteries, and headline crime stories.

16. The Clearing – – #16 of the Best Podcasts

The Clearing - Best Podcats
The Clearing

• Produced by Pineapple Street Productions in association with Gimlet.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Around 50 minutes.
• The show started: July 18, 2019, and ended: August 29, 2019.
• 8 episodes aired.
• Hosted by Josh Dean.
• 119.1 K subscribers.
• 663 K listens.

April Balascio gets her father arrested on multiple murder charges. April and the host, Josh Dean, go on an emotional journey back to her childhood to unravel the truth of her father’s life and the viral online narrative that sprung up around his case.

17. The Missing Crypto Queen

The Missing Crypto Queen
The Missing Crypto Queen

• Produced by BBC Radio.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: 40 to 60 minutes.
• The show started: September 17, 2019.
• 8-part series.
• Hosted by Jamie Bartlett.
• 11.7 K subscribers.
• 126.6 K listens.

The Missing Crypto Queen tells the true story of Dr. Ruja Ignatova. She was convicted for pulling a vast Ponzi scheme called OneCoin. Dr. Ruja disappeared in 2017 before the US could arrest her with a secret warrant. She was arrested in 2019.
This podcast is also found under Business, as well as Society and Culture.



Category: Society and Culture


This genre is a mixed bag, but the podcasts all have one thing in common. They appeal to the fascination we have with people and the world around us. Whether it’s a series, a talk show format, or interesting facts on pop culture, society, and the objects we surround ourselves with, this category is overloaded with great podcasts.

18. The Baron of Botox (New)

The Baron of Botox - Top podcasts
The Baron of Botox

• Produced by Imperative Entertainment
• Episodes published every Tuesday – 10-part podcast series.
• Episode length: Around 30 minutes.
• The show started: January 14, 2020.
• Over 3 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Justine Harman and the team who brought us “Broken Harts.”
• 607 subscribers.
• 2.8 K listens.

Dr. Frederic Brandt is a celebrity dermatologist to stars as big as Madonna. Then he becomes addicted to his own product.

You may also like: 10 Best Beauty Blogs in 2020

19. Dirty John – best podcasts

Dirty John podcast
Dirty John

• Produced by Wondery and LA Times.
• Episodes published: 7-part series.
• Episode length: 40 to 60 minutes.
• The show started: September 11, 2017. Ended: October 8, 2017.
• 7-part series.
• Hosted by Christopher Goffard from LA Times.
• 361 K subscribers.
• 2.8 M listens.

Based on the true story of Debra Newell and John Meehan. John is a sociopath who weaves webs of lies and deceit. It tells us how Debra was conned but also in love, and shows the insanity of women who fall for dangerous men. Despite her family’s warning, they could not change her mind until it was almost too late.

20. Stuff You Should Know

Stuff You Should Know
Stuff You Should Know

• Produced by iHeartRadio and HowStuffWorks.
• Episodes published 5 days a week.
• Episode length: Between 30 and 90 minutes.
• The show started: April 17, 2008.
• Over 1426 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Josh and Chuck.
• 1.8 M subscribers.
• 30 M listens.

From booze to fraud to altruism to comedy to how gasoline works, Josh and Chuck will enlighten you.

21. This American Life

This American Life
This American Life

• Produced by Chicago Public Media and delivered by PRX.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Just over an hour.
• The show started: September 12, 2016.
• Over 654 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Ira Glass.
• 1.3 M subscribers.
• 10.6 M listens.

A weekly public radio show. 2.2 million listeners. Over 500 stations. And the weekly podcast is downloaded 2.5 million times.

22. Conspiracy Theories (also in History)

Conspiracy Theories
Conspiracy Theories

• Produced by Parcast and Cutler Media Production.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Around 50 minutes.
• The show started: December 2013. (Archived episodes available on Stitcher Premium.)
• Over 110 events available, without Premium, since January 27, 2018
• Hosted by various readers.
• 109.9 K subscribers.
• 2.3 M listens.

Princess Di, Area 51, Jonestown, the Illuminati, and more. This podcast gives us the low down on our favorite conspiracy theories.

23. Catch and Kill with Ronan Farrow

Catch and Kill with Ronan Farrow
Catch and Kill with Ronan Farrow

• Produced by Pineapple Street Studios.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Less than 50 minutes.
• The show started: November 26, 2019.
• Over 6 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Ronan Farrow, Pulitzer prize-winning journalist.
• 21.4 K subscribers.
• 92.6 K listens/plays.

On the trail of Harvey Weinstein’s crimes and other newsworthy scandals, Ronan investigates and uncovers many crimes that were previously hidden by the system that protects men in powerful positions.

24. Stuff You Missed In History Class

Stuff You Missed in History Class
Stuff You Missed in History Class

• Produced by iHeartRadio and HowStuffWorks.
• Episodes published daily.
• Episode length: 15 to 30 minutes.
• The show started on June 10, 2008.
• Over 1356 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Holly and Tracy.
• 411.5 K subscribers.
• 6.4 M plays.

Weird and wonderful snippets, from History that didn’t quite make the curriculum’s cut.

25. Radiolab (Peabody Award winner, twice)

Radiolab - Best Podcasts
Radiolab

• Produced by WNYC Studios.
• Episodes published fortnightly.
• Episode length: 20-60 minutes.
• The show started: March 23, 2011.
• Over 251 podcast episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Jad Abumrad and Robert Krulwich.
• 848.6 K subscribers.
• 5.6 M plays.

With episode titles as varied as Null and Void, Smarty Plants, Ghosts of Football Past, Father K, and Juicervose, Radiolab keeps listeners riveted. Philosophical and thought-provoking content delivers a bit of magic and wonders for each episode.

26. Freakonomics – best podcasts

Freakonomics podcast
Freakonomics

• Produced by Freakonomics Radio.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Roughly 40 minutes.
• The show started: Not Available. Only the latest 14 chapters are available on free listening apps.
• Over 403 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Stephen J. Dubner, co-author of the Freakonomics books.
• 1.1 M subscribers.
• 6.7 M plays.

Interviews with experts in various fields. From business to academia, the host brings you facts you never thought you’d want to know and facts you thought you knew but didn’t.

27. Bad Batch

Bad Batch Podcast
Bad Batch

• Produced by Wondery.
• Episodes published weekly. 6-part series.
• Episode length: Around 40 minutes.
• The show started: October 23, 2019.
• All 6 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Lauren Bell, who reported on other series like Dr. Death and Dirty John.
• 71,7 K subscribers.
• 360.2 K plays.

An investigation uncovers a medical scandal that leaves many in critical conditions.

28. Phil in the Blanks

Phil in the Blanks
Phil in the Blanks

• Produced by Dr. Phil McGraw.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: 40-90 minutes.
• The show started: January 8, 2019.
• Over 62 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Dr. Phil.
• 310.8 K subscribers.
• 3.2 M plays.

Dr. Phil interviews movers and shakers, and other inspirational celebs. We see a different side to Dr. Phil; we are used to seeing. He discusses topics relevant to our lives today.

29. Boomtown Best Podcast

Boom Town Top Podcasts
Boom Town

• Produced by Imperative Entertainment and Texas Monthly.
• Episodes published every Tuesday.
• Episode length: Just under 40 minutes.
• The show started on December 10, 2019. 10-part podcast series.
• 7 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Christian Wallace from Texas Monthly.
• 2.8 K subscribers.
• 19 K plays.

Follow the oil boom in West Texas from how it’s changing the economy and the climate, to who the players are that are being drawn to this environment for various reasons.

30. The Mysterious Mr. Epstein

The Mysterious Mr. Epstein
The Mysterious Mr. Epstein

• Produced by Wondery.
• Episodes published weekly. 6-part series.
• Episode length: 30 to 40 minutes.
• The show started: October 1, 2019.
• All 6 episodes aired.
• Hosted by Lindsay Graham, who reported on American Scandal.
• 42.8 K subscribers.
• 425.6 K plays.

A 6-part series delving into the fraud and sex crimes of predator billionaire Jeffrey Epstein.



Category: Sports


31. Spitting Chiclets

Spitting Chiclets
Spitting Chiclets

• Produced by Barstool Sports.
• Episodes published Mondays and Thursdays.
• Episode length: Over 2 ½ hours, with certain episodes running for 5.
• The show started: April 28, 2016.
• Over 240 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Barstool Sport’s Rear Admiral and NHL veterans, Ryan Whitney and Paul Bissonette.
• 80.8 K subscribers.
• 1.8 M plays.

NHL is the feature where the hosts offer up their own opinions and chat about all sorts of current things that catch their attention.

32. The Bill Simmons Podcasts

The Bill Simmons top Podcasts
The Bill Simmons Podcasts

• Produced by HBO and The Ringer.
• Episodes published twice a week.
• Episode length: 1½ – 2 hours.
• The show started: October 1, 2015.
• Over 624 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by The Ringer’s Bill Simmons.
• 132.2 K subscribers.
• 3.6 M plays.

The most popular sports podcast around. Celebrity athletes, sports stars, and an assortment of characters, that “pop-in” regularly keep this show exciting and entertaining.

33. The MeatEater Podcast

Meat Eater Top Podcasts
Meat Eater Podcasts

• Produced by Janis Putelis of MeatEater Inc.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: 2 hours, sometimes longer.
• The show started: January 20, 2015.
• Over 206 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Steven Rinella.
• 54.4 K subscribers.
• 1.9 M plays.

Hunting, fishing, and nature conservation delivered with charm and wit. A varied demographic of guests add a bit more “meat” to this great outdoors podcast.

You may also like: The Top 13 Survival Blogs.

34. ESPN Daily

ESPN Daily
ESPN Daily

• Produced by ESPN.
• Episodes published Monday to Friday.
• Episode length: Just under 20 minutes.
• The show started: October 21, 2019.
• Over 72 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Mina Kimes.
• 1.7 K subscribers.
• 54 K plays.

An inside look at the top sports stories, daily.

35. 30 for 30 Best Podcasts

30 For 30 Top Padcasts
30 For 30

• Produced by ESPN, ESPN Films, 30for30.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: 30-60 minutes.
• The show started: June 27, 2017.
• Over 36 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by various investigative journalists and sports personalities.
• 160.5 K subscribers.
• 805.3 K plays.

These audio documentaries contain captivating stories from the world of sports and further afield. Take a behind the scenes look at what goes on in the lives of famous athletes as well as the adventures and mishaps experienced by them. From sponsorship and scandals to defeats and victories. From illness and injuries to success and relationships. It all gets covered.

36. The Steve Austin Show

The Steve Austin Show
The Steve Austin Show

• Produced by PodcastOne.
• Episodes published daily.
• Episode length: 70 – 120 minutes.
• The show started sometime in 2013.
• Over 465 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Stone Cold himself.
• 84.7 K subscribers.
• 1 M plays.

Steve Austin chats about whatever is on his mind, which is not always wrestling. Steve talks about old adventures as well as his life now. Pro wrestling champs pop in regularly to entertain.

37. Gladiator: Aaron Hernandez and Football Inc.

Gladiator
Gladiator

• Produced by Boston Globe and Wondery.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Around 35 minutes.
• The show started: October 15, 2018.
• This was an 8-part series that ended on January 29, 2019.
• Hosted by Bob Hohler of Boston Globe’s Spotlight Team.
• 50.1 K subscribers.
• 390.8 K plays.

How did Aaron Hernandez go from hero to zero in such a short space of time? Gladiator takes an in-depth look at the talented young tight end that got sent to jail for murder. Did no one see this coming?

38. Pardon My Take – best podcasts

Pardon My Take
Pardon My Take

• Produced by Barstool Sports.
• Episodes published Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
• Episode length: 1½ – 2 hours.
• The show started: October 17, 2016.
• Over 502 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by “Big Cat” and PFT Commentator.
• 154.5 K subscribers.
• 2.9 M plays.

Accurate sports takes with 2 hosts that are unpredictable and easy to listen to, keeps the show fresh and accessible.

39. The Fighter and the Kid

The Fighter and the Kid - Top Podcasts
The Fighter and the Kid

• Produced by Chin Suyi and Cattien Le.
• Episodes published every other day.
• Episode length: 100 minutes.
• The show started: August 11, 2015.
• Over 520 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by UFC heavyweight, Brendan Schaub and actor/comedian, Bryan Callen.
• 106.7 K subscribers.
• 3.4 M plays.

Uncut and unedited. Two guys are talking up a storm, with some sports in between.

40. Talk is Jericho

Talk Is Jericho - Best Podcasts
Talk Is Jericho

• Produced by Westwood One.
• Episodes published 3 times a week.
• Episode length: 1 – 2 hours.
• The show started: February 8, 2019.
• Over 102 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Chris Jericho, the world champion wrestler.
• 85.4 K subscribers.
• 1.1 M plays.

Chris Jericho interviews celebs from the wrestling world and the entertainment industry. Add to this a healthy dose of the paranormal. From David Weiss of Flat Earth fame to Rachel Stavis, modern exorcist, Jericho listens, and asks questions, while his guests share their opinions and passions.

41. Sport Wars

Sport Wars
Sport Wars

• Produced by Wondery.
• Episodes published twice a week.
• Episode length: Just over 30 minutes.
• The show started: April 17, 2017.
• Over 76 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Dan Rubenstein.
• 24.9 K subscribers.
• 393.2 K plays.

An inside look at sporting feuds and rivalries that made headlines at sometime or another. Already into its twelfth season.

42. Skip and Shannon: Undisputed

Skip and Shannon: Undisputed
Skip and Shannon: Undisputed

• Produced by FOX Sports.
• Episodes published daily.
• Episode length: 1 – 2 hours.
• The show started: August 24, 2018.
• Over 790 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Skip Bayless, Shannon Sharpe, and Jenny Taft.
• 47.2 K subscribers.
• 2.7 M plays.

Unscripted and unfiltered, the hosts know their sports inside and out. With a few laughs in between.

43. Fantasy Footballers – Fantasy Football Best Podcast

Fantasy Footballers – Fantasy Football
Fantasy Footballers – Fantasy Football

• Produced by Fantasy Football.
• Episodes published 5 days a week.
• Episode length: Just under an hour.
• 100 episodes have aired since August 21, 2019.
• Over 400 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike “The Fantasy Hitman” Wright.
• 105.9 K subscribers.
• 3.5 M plays.

If fantasy football is your thing, this is the only podcast you should be listening to. The hosts are funny and outspoken and they deliver accurate analysis.



Category: Arts


44. 99%invisible – #44 of the Best Podcasts

99%invisible - Best podcassts
99%invisible

• Produced by Roman Mars.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: 4-30 minutes.
• The show started: September 3, 2010.
• Over 421 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Roman Mars.
• 392.4 K subscribers.
• 3.8 M plays.

99% Invisible – 99pi is created and hosted by Roman Mars, who is also a founding member of Radiotopia, a small podcast collective. Over 400 episodes, ranging from 4 minutes to over 30, open our minds to the designs all around us that we take for granted. There are 8 categories: architecture, objects, technology, history, sound, cities, infrastructure, and visuals. You will find podcasts on everything from urban design to how punk originated!

45. Fresh Air

Fresh Air Podcasts
Fresh Air

• Produced by NPR (National Public Radio).
• Episodes published daily.
• Episode length: Less than 50 minutes.
• The show started: November 22, 2019.
• Over 50 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Terry Gross.
• 340.1 K subscribers.
• 6 M plays.

Fresh Air was originally a radio talk show broadcast over NPR. It’s been running since 1985 and is a Peabody Award winner. After syndication, in 2017, it gained even more of a following, and it reached 624 stations! As a podcast, it has clocked up over 50 episodes already. Extending its content beyond contemporary art, host, Terry Gross interviews artists of depth and character, like Leonard Cohen and Edward Norton, to name but two.

46. The Moth

The Moth
The Moth

• Produced by The Moth. The Moth Radio Hour is produced by The Moth and Jay Allison of Atlantic Public Media.
• Episodes published twice a week.
• Episode length: Either just under an hour or about 20 minutes.
• The show started in 1997 but became a podcast in 2008.
• Over 541 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by a different host every episode. Dan Kennedy is a prominent host. Each story has a different storyteller.
• 294 K subscribers.
• 3.1 m plays.

The Moth started as a live storytelling event where storytellers told their tales under a literal spotlight. It is these great stories that are now being broadcast as podcasts. Another beautiful example of a quality radio show transferred into a podcast.

47. TED talks Daily – best podcasts

TED talks Daily
TED talks Daily

• Produced by TED.
• Episodes published daily.
• Episode length: 10 to 15 minutes.
• The show started as a podcast on January 16, 2019.
• Over 295 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by: N/A as each talk is a different speaker.
• 2 M subscribers.
• 39.1 M plays.

TED Talks Daily is one of many TED podcasts. Always fresh and informative and short enough to squeeze in between longer podcasts.

48. The New Yorker: Fiction

The New Yorker: Fiction podcasts
The New Yorker: Fiction

• Produced by WNYC Studios and The New Yorker.
• Episodes published monthly.
• Episode length: Just over or under 1 hour.
• The show started: May 4, 2007.
• Over 155 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Deborah Treisman, editor for The New Yorker fiction.
• 39.1 K subscribers.
• 246.1 K plays.

Each month a guest author selects another author’s work, reads an excerpt, and discusses – the great podcast for bibliophiles.



Category: Entertainment/Comedy


Often filed under Comedy, or Society and Culture, the first five podcasts listed here are hosted by comedic celebs. Their podcasts are entertaining and hilarious, but they also offer juicy inside stories about celeb lives and upcoming projects. The guests are usually a varied smorgasbord of characters, skilled in their given professions. I love these types of podcasts. Often current affairs and other trending, newsworthy stuff is discussed. These pods are reminiscent of original radio talk shows.

Celebrity Talk Show formats

49. The Joe Rogan Experience

The Joe Rogan Experience
The Joe Rogan Experience

• Produced by Joe Rogan.
• Episodes published daily.
• Episode length: Almost 3 hours.
• The show started: December 24, 2009.
• Over 1520 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Joe Rogan.
• 3.1 M subscribers. (Other sources put this number at 100 M subscribers, and 1.5 B plays, per year.)
• 104.2 M plays.

Joe Rogan is the undisputed king of podcasting. 100% independent, and owned by Joe. He delivers the most listened to podcasts in the world and gets to do what he wants. Joe has laid the template for what can be achieved through ad revenue. His shows are eagerly anticipated and always well-received. While shows without guests still get numbers in the 100’s of 1000’s, when he has guests, these figures shoot to into the millions.

50. Conan ‘O Brien Needs a Friend Best Podcasts

Conan ‘O Brien Needs Friends
Conan ‘O Brien Needs Friends

• Produced by Team Coco and Earwolf.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Around 1 hour.
• The show started: November 8, 2018.
• Over 69 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Conan ‘O Brien.
• Over 1 M downloads per episode.

The Late Night television host is still so hilarious, and his podcast guests do not disappoint. This podcast is Conan’s half ditch attempt to make friends with people other than his co-workers. His self-deprecating humor never fails.

51. Under the Skin with Russell Brand

Under the Skin with Russell Brand
Under the Skin with Russell Brand

• Produced by Russell Brand.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: About 1½ hours.
• The sow started: March 9, 2017.
• Over 90 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Russell Brand.
• 166 K subscribers.
• 1.2 M plays.

This is a toned-down, grown-up version of the wordy Mr. Brand. Interviews with a wide array of people from intellectuals, activists, healers, and artists talking about stuff that goes further than skin deep.

52. Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard

Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard - Top podcasts
Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard

• Produced by Armchair Expert.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Over 2 hours.
• The show started: February 14, 2018.
• Over 177 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Dax Shepard.
• 506.8 K subscribers.
• 10 M plays.

Dax finds other people’s stories fascinating. His curious mind opens the door to some great interviews. Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard this is another podcast that should be under Society and Culture rather than comedy. Like Russell Brand, Dax is also living clean and sober these days.

53. WTF with Marc Maron

WTF with Marc Maron
WTF with Marc Maron

• Produced by Marc Maron.
• Episodes published twice a week.
• Episode length: Around 1 ½ hour.
• The show started: Sometime in 2010.
• Over 1093 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Marc Maron.
• 291.4 K subscribers.
• 3.6 M plays.

Maron has a reputation that follows him into the podcasting world. Known for his interview technique. He invites guests to his home and, in this setting, gets some epic podcast interviews together.

54. My Dad Wrote a Porno – best podcasts

My Dad Wrote a Porno
My Dad Wrote a Porno

• Produced by My Dad Wrote a Porno.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Half an hour.
• The show started: October 5, 2015.
• Over 140 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Jamie Morton, BBC’s Alice Levine, and James Cooper.
• 456.1 K subscribers.
• 6.5 M plays.

Each week a chapter from Jamie’s dad’s book is read and ripped apart, to hilarious effect by these three friends. Sometimes a famous person, like George Ezra or Elijah Wood, will pop in and take part. This podcast gained popularity for it’s witty mockery of Jamie’s poor dad’s attempt to write a porno.

55. Getting Curious with Jonothan Van Ness

Getting Curious with Jonothan Van Ness
Getting Curious with Jonothan Van Ness

• Produced by Earwolf and Jonathan Ness.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: About 1 hour.
• The show started: Full archive available through Stitcher Premium. Episodes appear on other players from June 19, 2018.
• Over 33 episodes aired so far (since June 2018)
• Hosted by Jonathan Ness.
• 171.3 K subscribers.
• 1.3 M plays.

Jonathan, from Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, gives us all sorts of interesting guests and topics that range from nature to design to pop culture. Anyone with a curious mind will love this podcast, and it’s laced with laughter and fun.

56. Last Podcast on the Left

Last Podcast on the Left
Last Podcast on the Left

• Produced by The Last Podcast Network.
• Episodes published on Mondays and Thursdays.
• Episode length: 1½ to 2 hours.
• The show started with Libsyn in chapter 34, February 16, 2015.
• Over 498 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Ben Kissel, Marcus Parks, and Henry Zebrowski.
• 393.6 K subscribers.
• 14 M plays.

The three hosts give us dark humor and all things that go bump in the night.

57. Monday Morning Podcast with Bill Burr

Monday Morning Podcast with Bill Burr
Monday Morning Podcast with Bill Burr

• Produced by Wondery and All Things Comedy.
• Episodes published Mondays and Thursdays.
• Episode length: 1 to 2 hours.
• The show started: January 3, 2011.
• Over 741 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Bill Burr.
• 456.5 K subscribers.
• 6.4 M plays.

Bill is a real dude’s dude. He curses and complains and is hell funny. A newsy type show where Bill gets to ramble on about sports and absolutely anything that comes up in the news, as long as it can be made fun off, it’s all fair game.

58. The NoSleep Best Podcast

The NoSleep
The NoSleep

• Produced by Creative Reason Media Inc.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: 1 – 2 hours.
• The show started: June 13, 2011.
• Over 373 episodes aired so far.
• Written by various writers, like Olivia White and Jazzmin Forrestall. Episodes are produced by various people. The cast is made up of an array of voice actors.
• 185.9 K subscribers.
• 3.5 M listens.

NoSleep is a podcast of horror stories, and tales from the beyond that will frighten away any thought of sleep you may have had. The styles of each tale differ, some paying homage to Grindhouse movies of the ’70s, others just bringing sheer terror or macabre visions of slaughter and mayhem.

59. Life is Short with Justin Long

Life is Short with Justin Long - Best Podcasts
Life is Short with Justin Long

• Produced by Wondery.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: 1 to 2 hours.
• The show started: May 13, 2019.
• Over 40 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Justin And Chris Long.
• 59.8 K subscribers.
• 609.7 K listens.

Justin and his brother bring us easy listening and witty conversation. The podcast has a nice flow, and the interviews feel natural and unscripted. His guests are always entertaining to listen to.



Category: News and Politics


With podcasts replacing the radio shows of old, it is completely expected that news and current events are sought after topics for podcast listeners. Whether it’s sports news, politics, or financial updates, the podcast directories have no shortage of podcasts in this category. For the listeners that want serious stuff.

60. The Pineapple Project – best podcasts

The Pineapple Project
The Pineapple Project

• Produced by ABC Radio.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Less than 30 minutes.
• The show started: February 3, 2018.
• Over 39 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Jan Fran.
• 10.5 K subscribers.
• 105.7 K listens.

Now in its fourth season, Pineapple Project deals with Death. Season 1 was about Money, followed by Work and Tidy in seasons 3 and 4. An award-winning podcast that could quickly be filed under Society and Culture, or Business. Practical advice on how to organize and prepare for the things in life we can’t avoid.

61. The Daily

The Daily
The Daily

• Produced by The New York Times.
• Episodes published daily, Monday to Friday.
• Episode length: Just over 20 minutes.
• The show started: January 17, 2017.
• Over 810 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Michael Barbaro, from the New York Times.
• 1 M subscribers.
• 31.8 M listens.

Good newscasting on current global and US news stories. Guests include Max Fisher, Amanda Taub, Margot Sanger-Katz, as well as specialists, reporters, activists, and many more.

62. Global New Podcast

Global New Podcast - Best Podcasts
Global New Podcast

• Produced by BBC World Service.
• Episodes published twice a day on weekdays and once a day on weekends.
• Episode length: Roughly 30 minutes.
• To view over 3000 episodes in alphabetical order (most are no longer available), go to BBC website.
• Only 53 available podcasts.
• Hosted by various reporters and journalists.
• 446.8 k subscribers,
• 13.5 listens.

Reporting on the day’s top stories from around the world.

63. Pod Save America – #63 of the Best Podcasts

Pod Save America
Pod Save America

• Produced by Crooked Media.
• Episodes published Mondays and Thursdays.
• Episode length: 1-2 hours.
• The show started: January 9, 2017.
• Over 369 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Jon Favreau, Jon Lovett, Dan Pfeiffer, and Tommy Vietor.
• 310.4 K subscribers.
• 8 M listens.

Hosted by 4 ex-aides to the Obama administration and joined by politicians, journalists, activists, and other players in the world of politics. For straight-talking discussions on American politics.



Category: Technology


Technology is a fast-paced, ever-changing field, and our lives are becoming increasingly intertwined with all things tech. The podcasts in this category either hit the mark or miss it entirely. From AI to DNA tech, video games to augmented reality, it’s all here.

64. TED Radio Hour

TED Radio Hour
TED Radio Hour

• Produced by NPR.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Around 1 hour.
• The show started: March 31, 2017.
• Over 149 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Guy Raz.
• 1.1 M subscribers.
• 6.6 M plays.

Guy Raz brings the human quotient into this narrative adventure. In tech, the human aspect is often overlooked, and this take on tech is a fresh spin.

65. Darknet Diaries – best podcasts

Darknet Diaries
Darknet Diaries

• Produced by Jack Rhysider.
• Episodes published fortnightly.
• Episode length: Between 30-120 minutes.
• The show started: September 1, 2017.
• Over 58 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Jack Rhysider.
• 37.1 K subscribers.
• 867.6 K listens.

66. TechStuff

TechStuff
TechStuff

• Produced by iHeartRadio & HowStuffWorks.
• Episodes published 3 times a week.
• Episode length: Just under an hour.
• The show started: June 10, 2008.
• Over 1309 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Jonathan Strickland.
• 173.2 K subscribers.
• 1.6 M listens.

A tech show that explores the technology of today, how it impacts our lives, and the people and marketing behind it.

67. The Vergecast

The Vergecast
The Vergecast

• Produced by Zach Kahn.
• Episodes published 3 times a week.
• Episode length: Between 30-90 minutes.
• The show started: January 31, 2014.
• Over 366 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Nilay Patel, Dieter Bohn, and Paul Miller.
• 61.3 K subscribers.
• 462.5 K listens.

Keeping you up to date with weekly developments in technology. Nilay gives in-depth interviews with special guests every Tuesday.

68. TED Talks Technology

TED Talks Technology - Top Podcasts
TED Talks Technology

• Produced by TED.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Less than 20 minutes.
• The show started: July 7, 2012.
• Over 196 episodes aired so far
• Hosted by: Each episode is presented by a different person.
• 332.2 K subscribers.
• 616.8 K listens.

We get to meet inventors and researchers, and we are introduced to their concepts and latest developments. In video format, available in 80 languages. TED Talks Technology brings you face to face with the techies of today.

69. WSJ’s The Future of Everything

WSJ’s The Future of Everything
WSJ’s The Future of Everything

• Produced by the Wall Street Journal.
• Episodes published fortnightly.
• Episode length: Around 30 minutes.
• The show started: July 18, 2018.
• Over 51 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by an array of top journalists.
• 100.8 subscribers.
• 414.65 K listens.

Hot topics include all things, AI, genetics, neuroscience, and more. Leaders and innovators get interviewed by award-winning journalists, and they focus on how technology is reshaping our world and the way we live.



Category: Fiction


70. Blackout – best podcasts

Blackout
Blackout

You may also like

• Produced by QCode and Endeavor Audio.
• Episodes published in an 8-part series.
• Episode length: Under 30 minutes.
• The show started on March 19, 2019, and ended April 30, 2019.
• Starring Rami Malek and Executive Produced by Rami Malek.
• 62.5 K subscribers.
• 283 K listens.

An end-of-the-world thriller that follows a DJ (Malek) from a small town, who has to fend for his family, or die trying.

71. Fake Heiress

Fake Heiress - best podcasts
Fake Heiress

• Produced by BBC Radio.
• All 6 episodes were released on December 16, 2019.
• Episode length: 26-37 minutes per episode. (187 minutes in total).
• Hosted by Vicky Baker and Chloe Moss.
• 3.5 k subscribers.
• 19.2 k listens.

An amazing tale of the rise and fall of a female fraudster. Anna Sorokin AKA Anna Delvey conned her way into living a luxurious, jet-setting lifestyle by reinventing herself as an heiress set to inherit a fortune on her 26th birthday. A 6-part series on how she managed to convince so many friends and businesses to fund her lifestyle. Based on the true story, with some fictionalized content makes for a great podcast series. Includes interviews with actual people involved.

72. Mythical Monsters

Mythical Monsters
Mythical Monsters

• Produced by Parcast Network.
• Episodes published every Monday.
• Episode length: 45 to 60 minutes.
• The show started: September 20, 2019.
• Over 19 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by: Unknown
• 3.7 k subscribers.
• 52.3 K listens.

Stories of the mythical beasts of legends and what they represent symbolically for mankind. Discover the roots and true meaning of these magnificent monsters from the Kraken to the Grim Reaper to Medusa, and more.

73. The NoSleep Podcast

The NoSleep
The NoSleep

• Produced by Creative Reason Media Inc.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: 30-60 minutes.
• The show started: June 13, 2011.
• Over 374 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by producer David Cummings.
• 186.1 K subscribers.
• 3.5 M listens.

Also filed under Arts. Horror stories from Reddit.com. Each episode consists of a few stories read by various people. Good content. Prepare to get no sleep!

74. New Yorker: The Writer’s Voice – New Fiction from the New Yorker Best Podcasts

New Yorker: The Writer’s Voice – New Fiction from the New Yorker Best Podcasts
New Yorker: The Writer’s Voice – New Fiction from the New Yorker Best Podcasts

• Produced by WNYC Studios and The New Yorker.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: generally 45 minutes.
• The show started: May 31, 2016.
• Over 150 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Debra Treisman, the fiction editor at the New Yorker.
• 25.3 K subscribers.
• 222.4 K listens.

Usually found under “Arts,” this podcast is all about written fiction and keeps us all updated with brilliant new offerings. Read by the authors themselves. A great platform to discover new authors to read.



Category: History


75. Mobituaries with Mo Rocca – best podcasts

Mobituaries with Mo Rocca
Mobituaries with Mo Rocca

• Produced by CBS News, Inc.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: 30-60 minutes.
• The show started: January 17, 2019.
• Over 21 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Mo Rocca.
• 71.4 K subscribers.
• 460.2 K listens.

Mo loves obituaries. From sitcom stars to dead presidents to lesser-known people. Mo gives them the obituary they deserve, and we get to discover interesting facts and trivia about them. Sometimes Mo is joined by guests as he brings to life long-forgotten stars of the 20th century.

76. Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History – #76 of the Best Podcasts

Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History
Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History

• Produced by Dan Carlin.
• Episodes published quite far apart. Next episode will air on Thursday, April 9, 2020
• Episode length: Well, over 4 hours!
• Episodes 1-49 are available through his website. In turn, 15 episodes are available for free on whatever app you use.
• Hosted by Dan Carlin.
• 622.6 K subscribers.
• 3.7 M listens.

Dan has an original way of viewing events from history. He poses off-the-wall questions and attempts to answer them, giving a fresh spin to old history.

77. You’re Dead To Me

You're Dead To Me
You’re Dead To Me

• Produced by BBC Radio 4 and Dan Morelle.
• Episode length: About 45 minutes.
• The show started: September 13, 2019.
• 18 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Greg Jenner.
• 38.9 K subscribers.
• 270.6 K listens.

Each episode, Greg is joined by a comedian and a historian. This is the perfect podcast to convert history haters into fans! Episodes range from the history of football (soccer) to LGBT history to the Spartans and the Aztecs.

78. Cautionary Tales

Cautionary Tales
Cautionary Tales

• Produced by Pushkin Industries.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: 30-40 minutes.
• The show started: November 15, 2019.
• Over 10 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Tim Hartford.
• 11.6 K subscribers.
• 95,5 k listens.

Remember the story of the boy who cried wolf? Well, these cautionary tales are true and are for adults. They promise to scare and delight you. The cast of storytellers includes stars like Alan Cumming, Archie Punjab (The Good wife), and Russell Tover (Quantico).

79. History of the World in 100 Objects

History of the World in 100 Objects - Top Podcasts
History of the World in 100 Objects

• Produced by BBC Radio 4.
• Episodes were published daily.
• Episode length: 15 minutes.
• The show started on January 18, 2010, and ended on October 22, 2010.
• 100 episodes aired.
• Hosted by the Director of the British Museum, Neil MacGregor.
• 27.8 K subscribers.
• 126.7 K listens.

Do you want to know historical trivia about objects that have shaped humanity in some way or another? Learn the history of credit cards to the Akin drum to the Hebrew Astrolobe and more. 100 objects. 100 podcasts.

80. Stuff You Missed in History Class

Stuff You Missed in History Class
Stuff You Missed in History Class

• Produced by iHeartRadio & HowStuffWorks.
• Episodes published daily.
• Episode length: 20-40 minutes.
• The show started: June 10, 2008.
• Over 1368 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Holly and Tracy.
• 412.4 K subscribers.
• 6.65 M listens.

With episode titles like “Did Nero really play the fiddle while Rome burned?” to “What was Satumalia?” to “Did Ghengis Khan kill 1,748,000 people in 1 hour?” and “Dr. Couney’s Baby Sideshow,” you will not be bored!

81. The Documentary Podcasts

The Documentary Podcasts
The Documentary Podcasts

• Produced by BBC World Services.
• Episodes published daily.
• Episode length: 30 minutes or 50 minutes.
• The show started: September 8, 2015.
• Over 870 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by a different host per episode.
• 219 K subscribers.
• 2.5 M plays.

This podcast presents documentaries that investigate global developments and other issues and affairs. Episode titles include “Polygamous marriage in modern Malaysia,” “South Korea’s hope in hell,” “Tuku Music” and “Denmark’s Migrant Ghettos.”



Category: Health/Self Improvement/Personal Development/Fitness


82. Bulletproof Radio with Dave Asprey

Bulletproof Radio with Dave Asprey
Bulletproof Radio with Dave Asprey

• Produced by Dave Asprey.
• Episodes published twice a week.
• Episode length: Just over 1 hour.
• The show started: August 29, 2011.
• Over 666 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Dave Asprey.
• 44.6 K subscribers.
• 775 K listens.

Dave Asprey is devoted to discovering what it takes to be your best. With the help of world-renowned MD’s, Olympic nutritionists, biochemists, and meditation experts, Dave and his guests bring the latest technology, and life hacks to you. Live longer, healthier, more productive lives. Bulletproof yourself.

83. The School of Greatness: Lewis Howles

The School of Greatness: Lewis Howles
The School of Greatness: Lewis Howles

• Produced by Lewis Howles.
• Episodes published daily.
• Episode length: Ranges from 5-minute snippets to 35-90 minute episodes.
• The show started: January 15, 2018.
• Over 305 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Lewis Howles.
• 255.0 K subscribers.
• 2.9 M plays.

Also filed under Business. Lewis Howles is a NYT best selling author, Lifestyle Entrepreneur, and former pro athlete. A self-development podcast with daily offerings of successful habits, how to love yourself, financial planning, and many other motivational topics. His guests range from a divorce lawyer, James Sexton to functional medicine guru, Dr. Mark Hyman.

84. On Purpose with Jay Shetty – #84 of the Best Podcasts

On Purpose with Jay Shetty
On Purpose with Jay Shetty

• Produced by Jay Shetty.
• Episodes published twice a week.
• Episode length: 30-60 minutes.
• The show started: February 14, 2019.
• Over 104 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Jay Shetty.
• 319.4 K subscribers.
• 3.5 M plays.

Great advice from Jay Shetty will have you entertained, enlightened, and motivated to start living the best version of yourself now! The stellar guest list will keep you coming back for more. This podcast is one of the most popular in its genre.

85. The Doctor’s Farmacy with Mark Hyman M.D

The Doctor’s Farmacy with Mark Hyman M.D
The Doctor’s Farmacy with Mark Hyman M.D

• Produced by Dr. Mark Hyman.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Some episodes are less than 20 minutes. Other episodes run for over an hour.
• The show started: May 16, 2018.
• Over 136 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Dr. Hyman.
• 15.2 K subscribers.
• 443.9 K plays.

This podcast gets straight to the root cause of all modern-day chronic diseases. You will find discussions on diet, lifestyle, food addiction, and farming practices that all take us further away from optimum health. A much-needed voice of reason in today’s increasingly corrupted health food industry.

86. The Minimalists Best Podcasts

The Minimalists
The Minimalists

• Produced by The Minimalists.
• Episodes published twice a week.
• Episode length: One episode of 5 minutes and one episode just under 1 hour.
• The show started: December 21, 2015.
• Over 267 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Joshua Fields Millburn & Ryan Nicodemus.
• 186.7 K subscribers.
• 1.9 M plays.

Less is more. The minimalist movement is a response to the excessive lifestyles, so many of us lead. The Minimalists podcast is all about living with less, to find more meaning in life.



Category: Science


87. Hidden Brain

Hidden Brain -  Best Podcasts
Hidden Brain

• Produced by NPR (National Public Radio).
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: 25-60 minutes.
• The show started: September 22, 2015.
• Over 253 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Shankar Vedantam.
• 883.5 K subscribers.
• 7.9 M listens.

An illuminating podcast that reveals the unconscious behavioral patterns that condition and shape how we behave, think and interact. And then gives us insight on how to change these factors to improve our state of mind and daily lives.

88. Invisibilia

Invisibilia
Invisibilia

• Produced by NPR.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: 15-60 minutes.
• The show started: January 9, 2015.
• Over 57 episodes are available for free.
• Season 1 is hosted by Lulu Miller and Alix Spiegel. Season 2 replaces Lulu with Hanna Rosin.
• 385.6 K subscribers.
• 1.5 M listens.

Invisibilia examines the “invisible” things that influence people’s thoughts and psyches. Now in its 5th season, Invisibilia continues to delve into the areas of our minds that we need to explore in order to grow beyond what it means to “be whole as humans.”

89. Stuff to Blow Your Mind – best podcasts

Stuff to Blow Your Mind
Stuff to Blow Your Mind

• Produced by iHeartRadio and HowStuffWorks.
• Episodes published daily on weekdays.
• Episode length: Around 1 hour.
• The show started: January 12, 2010.
• Over 1169 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Robert Lamb and John McCormick.
• 323.1 K subscribers.
• 3.9 M plays.

This podcast has been running long enough for us to get a full picture of how little we actually know about reality. They explore the questions, ideas, and mysteries we face going forward as a species.

90. BrainStuff – Your daily serving of smart

Brainstuff – Your daily serving of smart - podcasts
BrainStuff – Your daily serving of smart

• Produced by iHeartRadio and HowStuffWorks.
• Episodes published daily.
• Episode length: 5 minutes.
• The show started: July 14, 2008.
• Over 1352 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by various people.
• 119 K subscribers.
• 1.4 M plays.

Explaining everyday science, from how flatulence works to how nautical miles work to how activated charcoal works.

91. Making Sense with Sam Harris

Making Sense with Sam Harris
Making Sense with Sam Harris

• Produced by Sam Harris.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: 30-90 minutes.
• The show started: November 12, 2013.
• Over 191 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Sam Harris, the best-selling author.
• 421.8 K subscribers.
• 3.9 M listens.

Sam Harris is also a neuroscientist and a philosopher. Each episode covers essential and controversial subjects on everything from the human mind to society and current events.



Category: Education


92. The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast

The Jordan B. Peterson Podcasts
The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast

• Produced by Westwood One Podcast Network and Dr. Jordan B. Peterson.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: Between 1-2 hours.
• The show started: December 8, 2016.
• Over 108 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Jordan and his daughter, Mikhaila.
• 288.1 K subscribers.
• 3.1 M plays.

Jordan Peterson has become an internet sensation. Highly intelligent and very interesting to listen to. He is the voice needed to bring people back down to earth. They discuss sociological topics and interview other luminaries to highlight how culture and society get shaped by values, religion, society, music, and much more. Listen to enough of this man’s podcast, and he’ll have you reshaping your mind!

93. The Tony Robbins best podcasts

The Tony Robbins podcast
The Tony Robbins podcast
  • Produced by Tony Robbins.
  • Episodes published fortnightly.
  • Episode length:30-60 minutes.
  • The show started: July 11, 2016.
  • Over 100 episodes aired so far.
  • Hosted by Tony Robbins.
  • 526.6 subscribers.
  • 2.8 M listens.

Tony Robbins is an expert business strategist and life coach. Listen to interviews with luminaries and experts and follow his strategies and tactics so you can also improve your life in all areas, from business to finance and relationships.

94. Something You Should Know – #94 of the Best Podcasts

Something You Should Know
Something You Should Know
  • Produced by Mike Carruthers and OmniCast Media.
  • Episodes published daily.
  • Episode length: Around 45 minutes.
  • The show started: June 2, 2016.
  • Over 306 episodes aired so far.
  • Hosted by Mike Carruthers.
  • 205.8 K subscribers.
  • 5.3 M listens.

Streamline your life and your job with these daily episodes that impart just enough food for thought for you to digest. Titles include; “How to Be More Popular & What’s Wrong with the Science of Finding New Cures” and “How to Be a Better Driver & Why We Waste 40% of Our Food.”

95. Kwik Brain with Jim Kwik

Kwik Brain with Jim Kwik Podcasts
Kwik Brain with Jim Kwik

• Produced by Jim Kwik.
• Episodes published weekly or fortnightly.
• Episode length: 20 minutes or less.
• The show started: March 28, 2017.
• Over 163 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Jim Kwik.
• 84.2 K subscribers.
• 1.7 M listens.

Brilliant brain and memory coach, Jim Kwik, will teach you to think better and faster, with his short, effective episodes. Train your brain and improve your memory. With these simple strategies, anyone can be taught to think better. Drawing from his own experience and with a long list of well-known, satisfied clients, this podcast is well worth a listen.



Category: Business


The business category is all about money. How to make it, how to use it, and how to understand it. Podcasts in this genre cover a wide array of exciting topics. The economy is so intrinsically linked to how many people perceive life, so business podcasts are discussing the history and politics of the economy as well as human interest stories, interviews with business gurus, and tips on how to do better in business and investing. Some podcasts in business will be found in personal growth and self-improvement genres too.

96. The Dave Ramsay Show – best podcasts

The Dave Ramsay Show
The Dave Ramsay Show

• Produced by Ramsey Network
• Episodes published weekdays.
• Episode length:
• The show started; February 6, 2012.
• Over 4743 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Dave Ramsey
• 346.2 K subscribers.
• 18.3 M listens.

Apple’s 4th most popular podcast. Dave Ramsey is the business guru of the podcast world. Whether he’s talking about how to save, get out of debt, or plan for the future, Dave Ramsey shows no signs of slowing down. Topics are as varied as his listeners, but the focus is always on finance, business, and motivation. With so many podcast episodes under his belt, it is impressive he has kept the topics so fresh.

97. Planet Money

Planet Money Best Podcasts
Planet Money

• Produced by NPR.
• Episodes published Thursdays and Saturdays.
• Episode length: Less than 25 minutes.
• The show started: September 6, 2008.
• Over 969 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Noelle King and Scott Horsley.
• 660.1 K subscribers.
• 7.6 M plays.

Everything about the economy explained.

98. How I Built This with Guy Raz

How I Built This with Guy Raz
How I Built This with Guy Raz

• Produced by NPR.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: From 20 minutes to over an hour.
• The show started: September 12, 2016.
• Over 202 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Guy Raz.
• 523.1 K subscribers.
• 5.3 M plays.

Guy Raz brings us the stories behind significant innovations. He tells us how known companies began, the movements that arose from many good ideas, and the men and women behind these success stories.

99. Jocko Best Podcasts

Jocko Podcasts
Jocko Podcasts

• Produced by Jocko DEFCOR Network.
• Episodes published weekly.
• Episode length: 2 to 4 hours!
• The show started: December 22, 2015.
• Over 222 episodes aired so far.
• Hosted by Echo Charles (a director) and Jocko Willink (retired Navy Seal).
• 122.9 K subscribers.
• 2.7 M plays.

Highlighting the discipline and strategy needed to succeed in business and life, these guys talk war and wisdom. They draw from the history of famous military men and interview guests with excellent credentials.

100. Business Wars – #100 of the Best Podcasts

Business Wars Best Podcasts
Business Wars

• Produced by Wondery.
• Episodes published 8 or 9 times a month.
• Episode length: Around 30 minutes.
• The show started: February 6, 2018.
• Over 184 episodes aired so far. Premium version.
• Hosted by David Brown, former anchor of Marketplace.
• 194.2 K subscribers.
• 5.1 M plays.

Each season has 4 to 8 episodes that showcase classic business face-offs: Netflix vs. Blockbuster, Adidas vs. Nike, Coke vs. Pepsi. Big business means war, but what does it look like in the bigger scheme of life? Discover what drives people to succeed and what they will do for success. And how this impacts consumers?

And that’s a wrap! Your 2020 Podcast Playlist is complete. With so many outstanding podcasts to choose from, we may need to quit our day jobs!

Happy listening.

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