True Crime is among the top 5 types of podcasts, and it’s easy to see why. People have always been fascinated with mysteries and crime stories. While true crime shows on TV are still popular, podcasts offer a way to enjoy these stories on the go.
If you love true crime, you’re in luck! Here’s a list of true crime podcasts perfect for any mystery lover. They’re great for listening to whether you’re traveling, relaxing at home, or looking for something intriguing.
48 Top True Crime Podcasts You Should Listen to in 2024
Crime Junkie
Best friends Ashley and Brit have been obsessed with true crime their whole lives, enter Crime Junkie. This weekly podcast features a new story each week, with some of the more complicated cases getting a two-part episode.
There are different types of stories they cover such as ‘murdered’, ‘missing’, ‘mysterious death of’ and updates on previous cases.
The cases talked about on the show are usually cold cases that are yet to be solved. At the end of the episodes, the hosts encourage listeners to come forward and contact the proper authorities with any information regarding the cases they feature.
Apart from true crime, the hosts also advocate for mental health and women’s rights and talk about their beloved pets.
Super fans or ‘Crime Junkies’ can sign up to receive extra content, remove ads and get a first look at some of the upcoming cases.
What is the #1 true crime podcast?
The number 1 True Crime podcast currently is Crime Junkie. This was named no 1 in the 2024 Spotify True Crime Podcast chart list. Source.
My Favorite Murder
The record-breaking podcast My Favorite Murder has a catchy tagline, ‘Stay Sexy And Don’t Get Murdered,’ created by hosts Karen and Georgia. True crime fans can tune in bi-weekly to listen to the hosts tell different stories of crime and murder.
It’s not all doom and gloom with the pair as they add hilarious anecdotes from their lives into their show, along with some strong language and witty banter.
Minisodes are featured weekly, in which Karen and Georgia read bizarre and chilling stories emailed in from fans about occurrences that happened in their hometowns.
These range from funny stories of lax parenting in the 80s to their parents working with Ted Bundy. The minisodes are short and sweet but are guaranteed to leave you laughing.
The hosts refer to their listeners and fans as’ Murderinos. ‘ Merchandise, live tours, and various spin-off podcasts testify to the show’s popularity and success.
https://www.audible.com/pd/My-Favorite-Murder-with-Karen-Kilgariff-and-Georgia-Hardstark-Podcast/B08JJNBCNV?action_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdpMorbid
Another true crime podcast that mixes cases with comedy is Morbid. True crime isn’t the only focus of this podcast, as listeners are also provided with creepy history lessons and spooky stories.
Hosted by an autopsy technician, Alaina, and a hairstylist, Ash, you know it’s going to be a great mix of weird.
The usual episodes feature unsolved and solved murders, features on serial killers ghostly tales and local legends. Listener Tales is a type of episode the pair feature, which is all about the listeners.
People can email their tales for a chance for their stories to be told on the show.
Casefile True Crime
Casefile is a highly-rated Australian true-crime podcast that is released every Sunday for three weeks with one week off. Focusing on cold case files and solved crimes worldwide, the episodes dive into the investigations, circumstances, and trials of these stories.
Unlike other true crime podcasts, the host is an anonymous male voice and the creator of the podcast itself.
Another way the podcast differs from competitors is the scripted and narrated episodes, which mainly use hard evidence and police facts to tell the stories of the victims.
Best Casefile Podcast Episodes
Subscribers can expect to receive ‘Behind The Files’ information, including bonus Q&A sessions, exclusive content, and ad-free listening.
Someone Knows Something
The Canadian podcast Someone Knows Something uses investigative journalism to narrate cold case files. Host, David Ridgen is an award-winning filmmaker and writer who has a passion for investigative work.
Each season of the podcast focuses on one particular cold case, working with the victims’ families to try and help the cases move forward.
Hearing from those affected by these heinous crimes makes the podcast stand out from its counterparts and reminds listeners of the real people whose stories are yet to be solved. Therefore, this podcast is considered to be a more hard-hitting true crime narrative.
Murder, Mystery & Makeup
You might not associate a true crime podcast with a professional makeup artist, but that doesn’t stop Bailey Sarian from covering a wide range of cases, and none of them has to do with makeup.
Bringing the podcast over from her YouTube series, Sarian has had a lot of success with her natural flair for storytelling. Episodes come out weekly.
Serial
Serial is a groundbreaking podcast that unfolds one true crime story over a season. It gained widespread popularity for its in-depth investigation and compelling storytelling, particularly in its first season, which focused on the case of Adnan Syed and the murder of Hae Min Lee.
S-Town
S-Town is a gripping podcast from the creators of Serial. It starts as a murder mystery in a small Alabama town. It evolves into an astonishingly intimate portrait of a man named John B. McLemore, revealing unexpected twists and deep emotional narratives.
Dr. Death
Dr. Death is a chilling podcast about a neurosurgeon named Dr. Christopher Duntsch whose gross malpractice led to severe injury and death in several patients. The podcast exposes the failures of the medical system to protect patients from dangerously incompetent doctors.
Up and Vanished
Up and Vanished is an investigative podcast that looks into unsolved disappearance cases. Its first season focused on the cold case of Tara Grinstead, a Georgia high school teacher and beauty queen who vanished in 2005, leading to renewed interest and developments.
Your Own Backyard
Your Own Backyard is a true crime podcast focusing on the disappearance of Kristin Smart, a college student who vanished in 1996. The podcast combines investigative journalism with interviews, aiming to uncover the truth and bring new attention to her unsolved case.
The Last Podcast on the Left
The Last Podcast on the Left covers a range of dark subjects, including true crime, horror, and the paranormal. Known for its humor and deep research, the show explores notorious serial killers, mysterious events, and creepy folklore with a unique and often comedic perspective.
Best Last Podcast on the Left Episodes
Criminal
Criminal is a podcast that tells stories of intriguing crimes, criminals, and victims. It stands out for its thoughtful storytelling and focus on lesser-known criminal cases, often exploring the human side of criminal acts and the complexities of justice and morality.
The Dropout
The Dropout tells the story of Elizabeth Holmes and her company, Theranos. This podcast dives into how Holmes’ ambition led to one of the biggest corporate frauds in Silicon Valley, involving a blood-testing technology that never actually worked.
Dirty John
Dirty John is a true crime podcast about the life of John Meehan, a con artist and sociopath. The podcast follows his relationship with Debra Newell, detailing the deceit, manipulation, and ultimate confrontation that captivated audiences worldwide.
Missing & Murdered: Finding Cleo
Missing & Murdered: Finding Cleo investigates the disappearance of a young Indigenous girl named Cleo in the 1970s. The podcast is a deep dive into the tragic history of Indigenous children in Canada and the systemic issues surrounding their adoptions and disappearances.
Bear Brook
Bear Brook explores a cold case from New Hampshire’s Bear Brook State Park, where four unidentified bodies were found. The podcast goes into the decades-long mystery, its connection to modern DNA technology, and the innovative police work that led to unexpected revelations.
Root of Evil: The True Story of the Hodel Family and the Black Dahlia
Root of Evil focuses on the infamous Black Dahlia murder case, focusing on the Hodel family’s potential connection. The podcast, hosted by descendants of the Hodel family, uncovers dark family secrets and explores theories about who committed the notorious crime.
Sweet Bobby
Sweet Bobby is a true crime podcast that tells the story of Kirat Assi and her decade-long online relationship with someone who wasn’t who they claimed to be. It’s a deep exploration of deception, identity theft, and the psychological impact of catfishing.
Anatomy of Murder
Anatomy of Murder is a podcast that examines murder cases from the perspective of a former homicide prosecutor and a former medical examiner. The show provides unique insights into the investigation, autopsy, and prosecution of murder cases.
Somebody
Somebody is a podcast centered around the murder of Courtney Copeland, a young black man in Chicago. Hosted by his mother, the podcast investigates the circumstances of his death and the shortcomings and biases in the police investigation.
The Shrink Next Door
The Shrink Next Door recounts the bizarre story of a psychiatrist who manipulates and controls his patients, particularly focusing on one patient’s decades-long ordeal. The podcast uncovers the disturbing dynamics of their relationship and the psychiatrist’s unethical practices.
Man In The Window: The Golden State Killer
Man In The Window explores the crimes of the Golden State Killer, delving into his series of murders and assaults across California in the 1970s and 1980s. The podcast examines the investigation and eventual capture of the killer, along with the impact on his victims.
The Teacher’s Pet
The Teacher’s Pet investigates the unsolved disappearance of Lynette Dawson in Australia. The podcast uncovers new evidence, raises questions about her husband’s involvement, and sheds light on authorities’ inaction at the time.
Atlanta Monster
Atlanta Monster looks into the Atlanta Child Murders of the late 1970s and early 1980s. The podcast explores the investigation, the societal and racial tensions of the time, and the ongoing debate about the guilt of the convicted killer, Wayne Williams.
Scam Goddess
Scam Goddess is a podcast that humorously digs into the world of modern-day scams and con artists. Hosted by Laci Mosley, the show explores various scams, from small-scale frauds to high-profile schemes, while interviewing guests and scam victims.
Crimetown
Crimetown is a series that explores the culture of crime in different American cities. Each season focuses on a single city, uncovering its criminal history, political corruption, and the interplay between law enforcement and organized crime.
Bone Valley
Bone Valley is a true crime podcast set in Central Florida, known for its phosphate mines. The podcast investigates the unsolved murder of a young woman, revealing the dark underbelly of this seemingly peaceful area and the challenges in solving the case.
RedHanded
RedHanded dives into a mix of contemporary and historical true crime cases, examining everything from murder to the supernatural. The hosts blend thorough research with a touch of humor, creating an engaging narrative around each case.
Who Killed Daphne?
Who Killed Daphne? is a podcast focusing on the assassination of journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia in Malta. It explores the political corruption and criminal activities she uncovered and the ongoing search for truth and justice following her death.
In the Dark
In the Dark is an investigative podcast that sheds light on the failures of the criminal justice system in America. Each season focuses on a different case, providing deep investigative insights into the inefficiencies and injustices present in law enforcement and legal proceedings.
You Must Remember This
You Must Remember This is a storytelling podcast exploring the forgotten and lesser-known aspects of Hollywood’s history. It covers a wide range of topics, from famous figures to behind-the-scenes stories, revealing the darker side of the film industry.
Accused
Accused is a podcast that re-examines unsolved murder cases, often highlighting potential flaws in the initial investigations. Each season, the show digs into a different case, seeking to uncover new evidence and give voice to those forgotten by the justice system.
Park Predators
Park Predators explores the darker side of national parks, where serene landscapes can hide deadly secrets. The podcast investigates crimes that have occurred in these natural settings, revealing the stories of both victims and perpetrators.
Bonaparte
Bonaparte is a podcast that looks into the criminal underworld of Paris. It combines historical events with crime stories, offering a unique look at the city’s dark past through engaging storytelling and in-depth research.
Morning Cup of Murder
Morning Cup of Murder is a daily true crime podcast that serves up a quick dose of a murder case with your morning coffee. Each episode presents a concise and engaging overview of a different crime, perfect for listeners with a tight schedule.
CounterClock
CounterClock is a podcast that re-investigates cold cases, often uncovering new evidence and perspectives. The host works to piece together the events and evidence, providing a fresh look at cases that have remained unsolved for years.
Scamanda
Scamanda is a podcast focusing on internet scams and cybercrimes. It highlights various online frauds and deceptive practices, educating listeners on recognizing and protecting themselves from these digital threats.
The Hurricane Tapes
The Hurricane Tapes is a podcast that dives deep into the story of Rubin ‘Hurricane’ Carter, a boxer wrongfully convicted of murder. It presents unearthed tapes and interviews, offering new insights into his life, the case, and his fight for justice.
American Scandal
American Scandal tells the stories of major scandals in American history, ranging from political conspiracies to corporate frauds. Each season focuses on a different scandal, detailing the people involved, the impact, and the aftermath of these significant events.
Bad Blood: The Final Chapter
Bad Blood: The Final Chapter follows the continuing story of Elizabeth Holmes and Theranos after the events of The Dropout. This podcast goes into the trial and aftermath, offering insights into the legal proceedings and ongoing impact of the scandal.
Hunting Warhead
Hunting Warhead follows the investigation into a global child exploitation network. The podcast combines in-depth reporting and interviews, revealing the efforts to take down one of the largest dark web child abuse sites and its operators.
Court Junkie
Court Junkie looks into various courtroom dramas and judicial cases. It offers detailed coverage of trials, legal procedures, and the stories of people impacted by the justice system, highlighting both high-profile and lesser-known cases.
Who the Hell Is Hamish?
Who the Hell Is Hamish? tells the story of Hamish Watson, a notorious con artist. The podcast explores his history of fraud and deception, and how he manipulated and swindled people around the world, leaving a trail of devastation.
Chameleon: Hollywood Con Queen
Chameleon: Hollywood Con Queen investigates a scam targeting Hollywood hopefuls. The podcast unravels the mystery behind the con artist who impersonated industry executives to exploit gig workers and aspiring actors.
Suspect
Suspect is a true crime podcast that examines a murder case and the subsequent investigation that led to contentious conclusions. It raises questions about the evidence and the process of identifying the suspect, revealing complexities and challenges in the case.
Stuff The British Stole
Stuff The British Stole is a podcast that explores the history of items taken by the British Empire from various cultures around the world. Each episode focuses on a different artifact, uncovering its origin, how it was taken, and its significance today.
Evolution of the Genre
I’ve observed that the true crime genre has evolved significantly since its inception. Early true crime podcasts set the stage with a focus on storytelling and in-depth analysis of criminal cases. Classics of the genre like “Serial,” which launched in 2014, paved the way for numerous successors, experimenting with narrative styles and engaging audiences with meticulously researched content. These pioneering shows have not only remained incredibly popular but also inspired a new wave of podcasts that examine unsolved murders, delve into the criminal justice system, and explore the psychological profiles of perpetrators.
- Innovative Storytelling: Shows like “S Town” introduced a narrative depth that transformed true crime from a series of facts into a compelling story, enriching the genre with complex characters and intricate details.
Public Fascination with Mystery and Justice
My research indicates that the public’s fascination with mystery and justice is a strong driver behind the popularity of true crime podcasts. Listeners are often drawn to the suspense and intrigue of unraveling a case episode by episode. This captivation can stem from a deep desire to understand the human psyche and see justice served. True crime podcasts provide a platform for these stories to unfold, often highlighting the intricacies of legal battles and the investigation process.
- Personal Connection: Many listeners feel a personal investment in the cases covered, some of which may span multiple episodes or entire seasons, building a relationship with the narrative and a yearning for resolution.
Through the years, the genre has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth, suggesting that true crime will remain an enduring fixture in podcast libraries for the foreseeable future.
Key Figures in True Crime Podcasting
This section highlights influential podcasters who have significantly impacted the true crime genre through their investigative storytelling, unique presentation styles, and engaging narrative techniques.
Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark
Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark host My Favorite Murder, a comedy and true crime mix. They add humor to murder stories while respecting the victims. Their approach balances seriousness with a lighter touch.
Sarah Koenig
Sarah Koenig became famous with Serial, investigating Hae Min Lee’s 1999 murder. Her thorough approach has redefined true crime podcasting and enhanced the credibility of podcasts in journalism.
Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat
Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat, childhood friends, discuss various true crime cases on their podcast. Their detailed, respectful investigations have made them notable figures in podcasting.
Payne Lindsey
Payne Lindsey is known for his podcast exploring cold cases. His active investigative work distinguishes him as a podcaster deeply involved in solving crimes, bringing light to forgotten stories.
Infamous Cases and Crimes Featured
This section focuses on chilling, notorious criminal cases that have intrigued audiences, often covered in true crime podcasts due to their mystery, the infamy of the perpetrators, or their extensive media coverage.
The Black Dahlia
The unsolved murder of Elizabeth Short, known as The Black Dahlia, in 1947 Los Angeles remains a brutal mystery. The case, marked by the savage nature of the crime and intense media interest, is still open.
Ted Bundy
Ted Bundy, a notorious serial killer, committed shocking crimes in the 1970s. Known for his deceptive charm, Bundy’s escape and murder spree before his capture and 1989 execution continue to fascinate people.
Jeffrey Dahmer
Jeffrey Dahmer, the Milwaukee Cannibal, committed the murder and dismemberment of 17 men between 1978 and 1991. His appalling acts, including cannibalism and body preservation, captured public horror.
Adnan Syed
Adnan Syed’s case, popularized by “Serial,” involves the 2000 murder conviction of his ex-girlfriend Hae Min Lee. The debate over the evidence and trial fairness keeps his case in the spotlight in true crime discussions.
Frequently Asked Questions About True Crime
What should I consider when choosing a true crime podcast to listen to?
When selecting a true crime podcast, consider the depth of investigation, the storytelling style, the frequency and length of episodes, and the focus on either the victim’s perspective or the accused. Some may prefer comprehensive coverage with multiple points of view, while others might favor a more narrative-driven format.
Which true crime podcasts have been critically acclaimed internationally?
Critically acclaimed podcasts often feature thorough research and exceptional storytelling. Shows like “West Cork” and “Crimetown” have gained international recognition for their compelling narratives and meticulous attention to detail.
Can you recommend true crime podcasts that feature resolved cases?
Podcasts focusing on resolved cases offer closure and a full arc of storytelling. “Serial,” especially its first season, is a renowned example, as it meticulously follows a case that has reached a conclusion, providing listeners with a sense of completion.
Which true crime podcasts are favorites among Reddit users?
Reddit users frequently share their favorite true crime podcasts. Series like “S-Town” and the original season of “Serial” are regularly discussed and recommended within the community for their engaging storytelling and investigative depth.
What are the most popular true crime podcasts available on Spotify as of late?
Spotify hosts a range of popular true crime podcasts. The top 3 true crime podcasts available on Spotify are Crime Junkie, Rotten Mango and SERIALously. My favorite, “Serial,” remains widely listened to on the platform.
Resources:
- https://www.myfavoritemurder.com/about
- https://www.audible.com/charts/true-crime-podcasts/23593599011
Final Thoughts
If you’re a fellow true crime fanatic, you may have already heard of some of these popular podcasts, but we hope you find something new to satisfy your craving. Happy listening!
