Sometimes we want to be frightened. The NoSleep Podcast makes it possible for that to happen at any time of day with their horror stories.
NoSleep began as a Reddit thread where users could upload their original horror content, but it has since developed into an audio drama series that brings these spooky works of fiction to life.
There are hundreds of episodes available, and each frightening episode has four or five short stories (also see, ‘Best Ghost Story Podcast‘).
Heres the list of the top voted episode if you don’t like scrolling:
The Best NoSleep Podcast Episodes
| Position | Episode Name | Season/Episode |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Oddkids | S5E12 |
| 2 | Soft White Damn | S5E18 |
| 3 | The Whistlers | S5E25 |
| 4 | Uncle Gerry’s Family Fun Zone | S6E07 |
| 5 | The Good Thomas Shea | S6E13 |
| 6 | A Seaside British Pub | S7E05 |
| 7 | Down In The Library Basement | S7E22 |
| 8 | Borrasca | S7E25 |
| 9 | My Dad Finally Told Me What Happened That Day | S8E25 |
| 10 | The Forest Of A Thousand Legs | S9E07 |
| 11 | How To Summon The Butter Street Hitchhiker | S12E06 |
| 12 | I Used to Work the Grill at Reservation Diner | S8E20 |
| 13 | Spitting Image | S12E05 |
| 14 | The Stump | Extra Sleepless Vol. 1 |
| 15 | Hum | S16E10 |
| 16 | My Uncle Ford | S7E11 |
| 17 | Little Lost Amy | S11E23 |
| 18 | The Stairs and the Doorway | S1E01 |
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What’s great about this podcast is that you don’t have to listen in chronological order.
So, if you’re wondering where to begin, read on and find out what the NoSleep Podcast episodes are the best so you can start getting spooked!
1. The Oddkids – S5E12
Fans of Bridge to Terabithia will certainly love “The Oddkids,” which is presented in Season 5, Episode 12.
This episode features Sarah Piper writing the story, and David Cummings, Nichole Goodnight, and Nikolle Doolin reading it. It depicts a boy and a girl playing in a neighboring wood during the summer.
But when they find out about the Oddkids, doll-like monsters that prowl the forest looking for their next prey, things start to go wrong.
2. Soft White Damn – S5E18
NoSleep’s Season 5 Episode 18 includes the story “Soft White Damn,” written by M.J. Pack with narration and full production by Jeff Clement.
It relates the tale of an extremely unsettling monster and takes its name from a quote by E.E. Cummings. Good luck attempting to erase the voice of this monster from your memory!
Although the text is excellent, the voice acting and audio production bring this story to a whole new level. For the best effect, listen to it on a chilly night to enhance the story’s wintery feel.
3. The Whistlers – S5E25
The epic story “The Whistlers,” from Season 5 Episode 25 was written by Amity Argot. Even though it takes a while, it will be worth it in the end.
The narrative is presented through journal-style entries, featuring stories that will serve to immerse you in the captivating world of the story.
You can begin to understand what a “whistler” is even though it is never explicitly stated.
Anyone who appreciates a survivalist tale will adore the story because it takes place in the wilderness.
4. Uncle Gerry’s Family Fun Zone, by Jimmy Juliano – S6E07
5. The Good Thomas Shea – S6E13
“The Good Thomas Shea,” written by Victor King and read by Jessica McEvoy, Corinne Sanders, Jesse Cornett, and Jeff Clement, is the highlight piece of.
You won’t be able to stop reading once you get started because the tone alternates between gloomy and interesting.
It is one of the most moving resolutions of any NoSleep story and is a fascinating tale of loss and misunderstanding.
Long after you’ve finished reading, you’ll remember its dark twists and lovable characters. This is really excellent literature, but be forewarned: it contains some extremely heavy material.
6. A Seaside British Pub – S7E05
Think again if you believe that beachfront British pubs are just what they appear to be.
Erika Sanderson, Brian Mansi, and David Ault’s rendition of C.M. Scandreth’s composition “A Seaside British Pub” is a fifth frightening episode and a masterwork of vocal composition and execution.
Rich and well-developed backstories are given to the characters. Although you won’t feel particularly terrified, you will undoubtedly be entranced.
This episode is worth listening to since it captivates you and immerses you in the world of the characters.
7. Down In The Library Basement – S7E22
From Season 7 Episode 22, “Down in the Library Basement” stands out as a particularly spooky story. Although it is lengthy, if you follow its twisting path, you will become adequately frightened.
If you enjoy reading tales about ghouls and other supernatural beings, you’ll enjoy this depiction of the furry, spindly-legged creature.
8. Borrasca – S7E25
The voice actors in “Borrasca,” which was written by C.K. Walker, bring this suspenseful tale to life. Fans of horror will hold on to every word because it is a truly epic tale.
This episode is virtually an audio feature-length film, so forget about short and snappy.
This episode will satiate your need to delve deeply into some intriguing personalities and plot points. It absolutely steals the show.
9. My Dad Finally Told Me What Happened That Day – S8E25
This NoSleep podcast features the tale “My Dad Finally Told Me What Happened That Day” by Jared Roberts is beautifully delivered in the Season 8 finale. It’s not overly spooky, just weird enough to be intriguing.
The plot has a few unexpected turns for mystery enthusiasts that will leave you speechless. This goes above and beyond your ordinary scary short story.
10. The Forest Of A Thousand Legs – S9E07
You might want to listen to “The Forest of a Thousand Legs,” the incredibly spooky story featured in NoSleep’s Season 9 Episode 7, with the lights on.
This NoSleep podcast features a forest full of spiders and is performed by Jesse Cornett, Eden & Erika Sanderson, and Rex Lovezinski, is referred to as “thousand legs.”
Aside from that, this narrative also includes some pretty strong imagery and description, as well as an unexpected twist.
11. How To Summon The Butter Street Hitchhiker – S12E06
The title of “How To Summon the Butter Street Hitchhiker” from Season 12 Episode 6 alone makes it intriguing.
The short tale, written by Chris Hicks and performed by Atticus Jackson and Mark Berry, is based on an urban legend that claims that if you follow a specific set of instructions, a mysterious hitchhiker will show up for you.
He will provide you with an unknowable response if you play your cards right.
The narrator questions the hitchhiker about a specific reality, but the response he receives is more upsetting than any straightforward horror story technique.
This story starts with all the appropriate elements of surprise, melancholy, and darkness. It’s a heartbreaking piece that you probably won’t soon forget.
12. I Used to Work the Grill at Reservation Diner – S8E20
This might be an underappreciated gem in the NoSleep collection. Its unique horror perspective is reminiscent of Joe R. Lansdale’s work. The story captivates with its unusual antagonist duo – a racist diner owner and a cannibal.
Their mysterious bond adds depth to the narrative. While Matthew Bradford isn’t my favorite VA, the content uplifts his performance, and Mike Delgaudio shines as the main villain. “Reservation Diner” stands out with its distinct voice and compelling monster narrative. I wish there were more adaptations like this.
13. Spitting Image, by Meg Molloy – S12E05
Upon first hearing “Spitting Image,” it felt like an exceptional “Tales From the Crypt” episode. Meg Molloy masterfully combines horror and comedy, showcasing a detestable yet amusing protagonist meeting a grim end.
This story stands out in its humor, eclipsing most comedic NSP tales. Graham Rowat’s deadpan narration brilliantly underscores the main character’s obliviousness. The story’s horror imagery, particularly distortions of the human body, is compelling. “Spitting Image” reaffirms that there can be standout pieces even in NSP’s post-Season 10 era.
14. The Stump, by Ashley Franz Holmann – Extra Sleepless Vol. 1
The Stump” stands out not only for its compelling narrative but also for Jonathan Jones’ chilling voice performance. Unlike many overdone portrayals on the show, Jones captivates with mere vocal prowess, offering an eerie authenticity.
The story blends surrealism with clear storytelling, subtly delving into themes like child abuse. It’s refreshing to see such subjects approached with care and nuance, making “The Stump” a memorable highlight of the podcast.
15. Hum, by William Stuart – S16E10
This dialogue-only piece is both unsettling and captivating, particularly for what it leaves to the listener’s imagination.
Stellar character development, realistic dialogue, and impeccable casting, including Peter Lewis’s commendable performance as the demonic presence, elevate it. With its subtle techno-horror touch and top-notch production, “Hum” sets the gold standard for audio play stories.
16. My Uncle Ford, by Jackson Laughlin – S7E11
This story is quite the outlier, leaning more towards a surreal psychological analysis than straight horror. The prose is somewhat different from what’s typical on the podcast.
While the voice acting, especially from DC, is notable, the story gradually builds tension. “My Uncle Ford” feels more like a subdued piece, with its melancholic undertones making it less engaging for some.
17. Little Lost Amy, by Dan Fields – S11E23
A balanced mix of urban legend vibes with a fresh perspective. The brief encounter with the supernatural figure in the narrative is haunting. Moreover, Corinne Sanders’ performance adds a distinct layer to the tale, making it memorable and chilling.
18. The Stairs and the Doorway, by Eric Dodd – S1E01
The NSP’s first story, “The Stairs and the Doorway,” remains a benchmark for the podcast’s adaptations. David Cummings’ straightforward narration stands out, particularly against the backdrop of the show’s current over-production.
The story’s simple production and subtle background music creates a nostalgic ambiance, gradually transitioning to horror. It encapsulates a unique charm that resonated with many, setting a high standard for subsequent seasons. The mix of music and narration evokes a sense of an autumnal day, emphasizing the power of storytelling over performance. This inaugural tale has lessons the current show could heed.
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Final Word
You’re sure to be creeped out and spooked by featuring stories of frightening tales told in The NoSleep Podcast.
This list has been just a few of the best episodes to help you get started in your horror adventure.
