The Best Podcasts To Binge Right Now
We are updating our very popular podcast roundup from last winter yet again and adding some new favorites from the community. There’s been a lot of great new releases and some older gems we’ve discovered recently. We’ve organized into categories so whether you are looking for a good laugh, some true crime or parenting advice– we’ve got a little bit of everything for every taste. Read on for more…
I think it’s safe to say we are all on the same page when it comes to our obsession with podcasts. Kelley and I are both huge podcast fans and we rounded up our top picks if you’re looking for a new binge-worthy listen. Perfect for car rides, commutes, cleaning the house or whenever else you’re in the mood for a podcast. I also asked for your favorites and picked the top recommendations to share down below. Whether you’re looking for a laugh, true crime, some history or a little inspiration we’ve got you covered with the best podcasts to binge right now. Have a podcast you love that’s not on the list? Let us know in the comments!
The Best Podcasts To Binge Right Now
Parenting
Unruffled
Unruffled is a parenting podcast from Janet Lansbury, former actress and model turned educator and author of many best-selling parenting books. In Unruffled, Janet shares parenting issues from her listeners and provides advice and validation through her own respectful parenting philosophy. I have found some episodes to be so helpful for things such as dealing with tantrums, helping your child in a way that teaches them to help themselves and so much more!
Society & Culture
Missed Fortune
Missed Fortune follows a fascinating treasure hunt and the lives ruined and those possibly saved because of it. Art dealer and writer, Forrest Fenn decided to hide treasure worth $1 million in the Rocky Mountains and the only clues provided were in a poem. And so the stories of the treasure hunters drawn into obsession ensue and we can’t wait to see what happens!
Wolves Among Us
The Wolves Among Us tells the story of Larry Lavin, head of one of the largest cocaine rings in America from 1978-1984. Only 2 episodes in, this new podcast will get you hooked. It’s an insightful look into the life and mind of a drug dealer and how eventually things can go terribly wrong.
On Being
On Being is back and better than ever! After a short hiatus Krista Tippet has returned with an amazing line-up of interviews. If you haven’t listened yet, there is PLENTY to catch up on in this award winning podcast. On Being’s host, Krista Tippet has a soft spoken, kind way of engaging with her interviewees. And gaining so many invaluable nuggets from each person she comes into contact with, drawing on their strengths and superpowers and helping to share their wisdom. Listen now to laugh, cry and feel inspired and moved.
The Sunshine Place
The Sunshine Place tells the story of Synanon, a social experiment turned dangerous cult in the 1960’s. Hosted by the daughter of a former Synanon resident, her in-depth investigation into the history of the program, the man behind it all and eventually its demise is both fascinating and horrific.
Wild Things
If the whole Tiger King phenomena got you interested in why humans ever thought it was okay to keep tigers as pets, then you may want to check out Wild Things. This podcast about Siegfried and Roy follows their journey over the course of nearly 50 years as they trained and performed with their tigers generating over $1 billion in ticket sales. This podcast digs into the mystery behind the duo and how eventually everything fell apart.
Dirty John
An oldie but goodie if you haven’t already listened to Dirty John put this one at the top of your list. It follows the true story of con artist John Meehan and all the women, including Debra Newell, that he left in ruin in his wake. Dirty John was also made into a TV show, you can watch it on Netflix here.
The Dream: Season One
In season one of The Dream, the hosts explore the predatory nature of MLMS or Multi-level marketing schemes. I have this one queued up on my list of podcasts. I’ve heard from a few friends that recommended the podcast that it draws thoughtful parallels between MLMS and social justice, politics and the legal system.
This American Life
This American Life is an award winning weekly journalistic podcast sharing stories with a little bit of hope, humor, suspense and sadness. You can always rely on good quality storytelling and interesting themes. This podcast from public radio, NPR is one you won’t want to miss.
The World’s First Podcast
Hosted by Erin and Sara Foster (daughters of David Foster), The World’s First Podcast explores the realms of friendship, investing, dating, aging, motherhood, religion, infertility and grief. Erin and Sara share their own stories and experiences and interview insightful and interesting individuals.
Re: Thinking with Adam Grant
In Re: Thinking with Adam Grant he challenges everything you think and know with interviews that challenge and present new ways of thinking. Love this podcast and want more with Adam Grant? Try WorkLife.
Even the Rich
Even the Rich is a great escape from your everyday into the world of some of the greatest family dynasties in history. You will learn about everything from the Royals to the Carters and all the events and people in-between.
True Crime
Up and Vanished
My husband and I listened to season 2 of Up and Vanished on a recent road trip and we were riveted. Host Payne Lindsey has a great radio voice, incorporates some epic music, sound effects and interviews that really bring the stories to life with a significant amount of suspense along the way. A podcast that inspired the reopening of a cold case is always worth a listen.
Bear Brook
Break Brook is a story told by host Jason Moon, of a small unassuming town in New Hampshire which was plagued with murder back in the 1985. This podcast follows the story beginning in 1985 when three boys discovered a mysterious barrel in the woods while playing. The barrel was soon discovered to have bodies inside. In fact, the subject of a gruesome murder. But when the case goes later goes cold and 30 years later another barrel is found, interest in this case is sparked and why it was never solved.
Queen of the Con
In Queen of the Con, podcast host, Johnathan Walton shares his own experience with con artist, Lizzie Mulder in the first season. He has a great mixture of humor and wit. And does an excellent job telling the story in a riveting and engaging way. You can feel that Johnathan is truly dedicated to exposing the best of the cons and does so in the most fascinating way.
Unraveled
Unraveled hosted by journalists Billy Jensen and Alexis Linkletter, is true crime at its best. Now in it’s 5th season, if you haven’t already binged, you have lots to catch up on. Beginning in season one with the Long Island murders, in this podcast series you will be immersed into the corrupt police scandal underneath it all. If you love true crime documentaries than you will love Unraveled just as much!
The Dropout
If you followed the story of Elizabeth Holmes and her now defunct Theranos, The Dropout is a must listen. The story of Elizabeth Holmes and Theranos is one of money, romance, deception, and ambition. Dropout follows the story of the world’s youngest self-made billionaire. And how it all went wrong.
Lost Hills: Season 2
This true-crime podcast follows the mysterious drowning of a Malibu woman and her son. Her husband Fred was convicted of their murders. But he continues to claim his innocence along with the victim’s family. However, there’s more to the story, in this Los Angeles based podcast and Fred’s first wife died under suspicious circumstances too. Was it an awful coincidence or something far more sinister?
Dark House
Who doesn’t love a haunted house story? What’s even better is on this show, the story of beautiful historic homes weaves together with the ghosts they left behind. Be careful this one might keep you up at night!
Undetermined
If you loved To Live and Die in LA and Culpable, let Undetermined be your next best true crime binge. “Undetermined” is when there is insufficient evidence to determine the cause of death in a case. This podcast explores the death of Jessica Easterly Durning, but with evidence of foul play her loved ones want answers around her mysterious death.
Crime Junkie
We love all the crime pods and this one is another favorite amongst readers. Crime Junkie is a weekly podcast host Ashley Flowers explores a new crime each week in a fun and casual manner like you are hanging in out with your best friend.
Detective Trapp
In Detective Trapp, you follow the story of Detective Julissa Trapp as she investigates the murder of a woman who may be linked to several other mysterious disappearances. What’s unique about this podcast is not only does it explore the murder and disappearance of several women but also the detective behind the case and the complications this entails.
The Rosenberg Case
The Rosenberg Case is a podcast about the assassination of Guatemalan lawyer, Rodrigo Rosenberg. Host Edgar Castillo digs into the mystery behind the assassination, what lead up to the event and the upheaval that resulted from it.
Root of Evil: The True Story of The Hodel Family and the Black Dahlia
Root of Evil is a podcast hosted by the family thought to be at the center of one of America’s most infamous unsolved murders. In 1947, Elizabeth Short, also known as “The Black Dahlia”, was brutally murdered and suspected killer Dr. George Hodel’s son and family open up about their family’s mysterious history and secrets unfold.
Comedy
Smartless
If you want something a little silly and fun, look no further than Smartless. Hosted by Will Arnett, Jason Batemen, and Sean Hayes. It’s full of great interviews, comedy, and interesting stories. Not sure where to start? A few of my favorite episodes include: Awkwafina, Tina Fey, Martin Short, and Ricky Gervais.
Armchair Expert Umbrella
If you are looking to hear from some of the world’s most diverse and equally interesting females, check out the mini series from Armchair Expert called We Are Supported By… You will hear from influentials such as Oprah, Reese Witherspoon and Kim Kardashian– and maybe, just maybe it might change your mind about her, even just a little bit.
Las Culturistas
Hosted by comedians, Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang (SNL) the Las Culturistas explore everything culture with humor, wit, insight and fun. They delve into the hottest pop culture moments and you won’t want to miss it.
I Said No Gifts!
I love the premise of host Bridger Winegar’s podcast, I Said No Gifts! His plea for no gifts is actually quite the opposite and provides a fun topic of conversation in each episode. Tune in for a laugh!
Celebrity Memoir Book Club
Celebrity Memoir Book Club is exactly what it claims to be as two New York comedians Claire Parker and Ashley Hamilton read celebrity memoirs and share all the dirt.
Morbid
For all the spooky Halloween vibes, Morbid is a fun, creepy podcast with everything from Spooky woods and lakes to New England witches. Hosted by an autopsy technician and hairstylist, enjoy their banter and retelling of historically spooky tales and true crime with a funny twist.
Relationships
We Can Do Hard Things
Glennon Doyle is one of my favorites. She truly tackles all the hard things in the most humble of ways through conversations with her sister, wife, Abby Wambach, guest experts and her podsquaders. She digs into topics from “How to Say No” to “Addiction” and “Beauty”. These conversations are so real and relevant. Have a listen.
Unlocking Us with Brene Brown
Brene says it best, Unlocking Us is a podcast with, “conversations that unlock the deeply human part of who we are, so that we can live, love, parent, and lead with more courage and heart.” Check out one of Jess’ favorite episodes on Accessing Joy and Finding Connection in the Midst of Struggle.
News
The Daily
This New York Times podcast is a great go-to daily podcast for a fresh take on current events, pop culture and news. Each episode of The Daily is about 20 minutes long (sometimes longer). And makes a perfect listen during your commute to work or while you enjoy your coffee to get a read on the day and what is happening around the world.
Serial
If you listen to podcasts, you’ve probably listened to Serial. Season one which came out in 2014 was a massive sensation and pushed listeners to question everything they thought they knew about the criminal justice system. Sarah Koenig looks for answers on Season One of Serial, as she thoroughly examines and investigates what happened to Hae Min Lee, and whether or not her 17 year old ex-boyfriend at the time, Adnan Syed murdered her. Syed has always maintained his innocence. And in a stunning decision by a Baltimore Judge, his conviction was vacated, in 2022, after spending 23 years in prison. If you haven’t yet listened to Serial, start from Season One, Episode One.
Crimetown
Do you find crime intriguing? Check out Crimetown a podcast that explores the culture and history of crime in different American cities.
History
Slow Burn
Slow Burn is equal parts historical, political with a little bit of true crime, now in its 6th season. The podcast features several different hosts. And a range of topics from the most recent Roe vs. Wade to the Watergate Scandal.
The MLK Tapes
How much do you know about the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr? Chances are, you’ll learn something new from The MLK Tapes. With new interviews from people who were there and rare recordings of eye-witness testimony, this podcast digs for the truth behind the plot to kill Dr. King. New episodes drop weekly.
Noble Blood
For all you “royal” fans, Noble Blood delves into the stories of histories most notorious royals and all of the deceit and tragedy that ensued.
Stuff You Missed in History Class
Ever feel like you didn’t quite absorb everything you should have in high school? Stuff You Missed in History Class is the best way to learn interesting things about American history and beyond, that you should know in an entertaining way no matter how strange they may be!
1619
1619 is a New York Times podcast hosted by Nikole Hannah-Jones that tells the story of American slavery that is well-done, thoroughly researched, and touching.
Documentary
Fiasco: Benghazi
Full disclosure this podcast is only available to subscribers (you can preview the first episode). If you want to understand more about what happened in Benghazi and the events leading up to it, the host does a phenomenal job of making a complex topic easier to follow and understand. I learned so much listening to this well researched story.
Storytime with Seth Rogan
A fun, easy listen for the new year with Rogan, who interviews celebrities about everything from run ins with Paul Rudd to a terrifying bear encounter.
Politics & Government
American Radical
How did a shy woman from Georgia who hated politics end up dying in the middle of a crowd trying to force its way past the police at the Capitol on January 6, 2021? This podcast follows the story of Rosanne Boyland. And how she went from being someone who had never shown interest in politics to becoming a Trump supporter fueled by conspiracy theories. It’s a tragic story that left me wondering how many other Rosanne’s are out there.
Strict Scrutiny
This podcast sounds so interesting. It’s hosted by three women who talk about the Supreme Court and the legal culture surrounding it. Apparently there’s some humor thrown in too.
Sexuality
Sex with Emily
Dr. Emily Morse is a sexpert who shares all the dirty on sex and relationships. She’s brave enough to dive into the topics that we are all curious about, but too scared to bring up and has conversations with real people with really relatable stories and questions.
Social Sciences
Invisibilia-The Friendship Season
This is so incredibly fascinating. Why is it that we treat friendships unlike any other relationships in our lives? Get ready for a deep dive into all things friendships. Including nuns, ghosts, friends with benefits, and poop? Yes, now I’ve got your attention!
Health & Fitness
Maintenance Phase
I keep seeing this podcast pop up. It sounds like it’s an excellent listen based on all of your recommendations. Maintenance Phase takes on the diet industry. And “debunks the science behind health fads, wellness scams and nonsensical nutrition advice.”
Books
Bad On Paper
Not surprised how many of you love my friend Grace’s podcast Bad on Paper. Grace hosts this weekly podcast with Becca, where they talk about books, careers, dating and so much more.
Fresh Air
NPR’s Fresh Air, hosted by Terry Gross features conversations with today’s most fascinating inspirations.
Personal Journals
Be There In Five
Kate Kennedy is a bit of a millennial podcast icon. Her episodes are typically longer and usually done in monologue format. She does deep dives on everything from Mormon bloggers and TikTok trends to 90’s purity culture and influencer scandals.
Design
A Thing or Two with Claire and Erica
A Thing or Two is described as a podcast that is a “unique mix of urgent discussions of non-urgent things and thoughtful discussions of important and often otherwise ignored, things.” Hosts Claire Mazur and Erica Cerulo are all about discovery and enthusiasm which makes for a great pod.
Food
Trader Joe’s (Inside)
Are you a Trader Joe’s fan? Check out Inside Trader Joe’s to hear how TJ’s came to be, what you won’t want to miss and what to look forward to in the future.
Fashion & Beauty
Forever 35
Hosts Doree Shafrir and Kate Spencer bring humor, honesty and authenticity to their podcast Forever 35 all about everything from skincare to friendship and therapy.
Leisure
Cozy Conversations with the Sister Project
Cozy Conversations with the Sister Project is a podcast from midwestern wellness and lifestyle bloggers, Michelle Anderson and Lauren Massarella. They dig into everything from pop culture to current events.
Self-Improvement
Good Enough-ish
Hosted by friends, Brooke Forry and Amanda Jefferson, Good Enough-ish is their light-hearted exploration of all the struggles of life and just trying to get through and doing “good enough-ish”.
Rich Roll
In Rich Roll‘s podcast, he explores all things wellness through deep, intimate and intense conversations. His mission is to help listeners “unlock their best self”.
Careers
Second Life
Second Life is a podcast that highlights women who have switch careers and found both happiness and success.
Mental Health
The Minimalists
Hosts Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus help people “live meaningfully with less” in The Minimalists.
Education
Here’s Where it Gets Interesting
In Here’s Where it Gets Interesting, host Sharon McMahon, highlights the stories you haven’t heard but are worth hearing in America. With history, culture and politics, McMahon will inspire thoughtfulness and increased awareness.
We tend to pick non-fiction but if you are looking for fiction podcasts try this round up of 15 Best Fiction Podcasts.
Music Podcasts
Dolly Parton’s America
While our country finds itself divided in almost every aspect of life, Dolly Parton seems to be one thing everyone can agree on. This podcast, Dolly Parton’s America explores why this is and the music and history behind one of America’s most beloved icons.
