True crime podcasts have taken the world by storm, drawing tens of millions of listeners eager to unravel the mysteries of grisly murders, unsolved kidnappings, and cold cases that have stumped investigators for decades. It’s no surprise that these podcasts are so popular—crime stories have always held a unique fascination. Our curiosity about the darker sides of human nature is nothing new, with crime-focused books, documentaries, and now podcasts drawing in audiences from all walks of life.
The podcast format, with its conversational style and intimate storytelling, has become the perfect medium for exploring these narratives. Whether you’re a horror fan, a true crime aficionado, or simply enjoy a gripping story, the world of true crime podcasts has something for everyone. Here’s a list of some of the most talked-about true crime podcasts that are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. Give them a listen and see why they have become so beloved!
1. Dark History
Bailey Sarian, known for her “Murder, Mystery, and Makeup” series on YouTube, brings her storytelling skills to this weekly podcast. Every Wednesday, she dives into chilling tales of murder, mystery, and history. The podcast is free to listen to and the episodes are also available in video format on YouTube.
2. The Nobody Zone
This award-winning podcast tells the story of Kieran Patrick Kelly, a homeless man in Ireland who confessed to a series of murders that spanned three decades. Despite his conviction for two murders, he claimed to have killed at least 15 people. The podcast explores how these murders went largely unnoticed and what led Kelly down his violent path.
3. Supernatural with Ashley Flowers
Ashley Flowers explores the more unconventional side of true crime with stories of alien abductions, mysterious events, and crimes with no logical explanations. If you’re interested in the eerie and the unexplained, this podcast is sure to intrigue you.
4. Untold: The Daniel Morgan Murder
Peter Jukes and Alistair Morgan, the brother of the murdered Welsh private detective, dive deep into the unsolved 1987 murder of Daniel Morgan, who was brutally killed with an ax. The podcast uncovers the many missteps in the investigation, including allegations of police corruption and cover-ups.
5. Death of a Starlet
This six-part series chronicles the tragic story of Dorothy Stratten, a Playboy Playmate and aspiring actress who was murdered at the age of 20. The podcast explores her rise to fame and the dark events that led to her untimely death.
6. What Happened to Annie
Annie Borjesson, a Swedish musician, was found dead on a beach in Scotland in 2005, and her death was ruled a suicide. However, her family has doubts about the official narrative. This podcast investigates the many unanswered questions surrounding her death and examines the evidence from all angles.
7. Paper Ghosts
Investigative journalist M. William Phelps delves into a mysterious incident from 1981 in which a farmhouse in Ohio was engulfed in flames, resulting in four deaths. The podcast uncovers hidden audiotapes, declassified documents, and the disturbing truth behind what really happened.
8. The Something Scary Podcast
If you enjoy ghost stories, folktales, and urban legends, this podcast is for you. Each episode explores eerie tales, including haunted objects like a cursed stuffed bear and a watch with a sinister history.
9. Brainwashed
“Brainwashed” explores the CIA’s mind-control experiments during the Cold War and beyond. It reveals how patients at a Montreal hospital became unwitting guinea pigs in these experiments, exposing the dark intersections between the military, medicine, and intelligence agencies.
10. Serial
“Serial” is often credited with sparking the true crime podcast craze. Hosted by Sarah Koenig, this podcast uses investigative storytelling to examine a different case each season, unraveling complex narratives and shedding light on the justice system.
11. Criminal
Phoebe Judge and Lauren Spohrer created “Criminal,” a gripping and immersive podcast that delves into a variety of criminal cases. With each episode offering a unique story, the podcast has gained a dedicated following for its engaging storytelling and deep dives into the human elements of crime.
12. Up and Vanished
Hosted by Payne Lindsey, “Up and Vanished” brought new attention to the case of a murdered beauty queen, ultimately leading to breakthroughs in the investigation. The podcast’s impact on the case is a testament to the power of true crime storytelling.
13. Dirty John
“Dirty John” tells the shocking story of Debra Newell and con artist John Meehan, exposing the dangers of toxic relationships and abuse. The podcast not only explores the dramatic events of their relationship but also sheds light on the broader issue of intimate partner violence.
14. Believed
“Believed” examines one of the most notorious cases of sexual abuse in American history, telling the stories of the more than 300 women who were abused by Olympic gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar. The podcast explores how this abuse was allowed to persist and the survivors’ fight for justice.
15. Forgotten: Women of Juarez
This haunting podcast looks at the tragic disappearances and murders of women in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, since the 1990s. The mysterious deaths and carved symbols found on the bodies have led to speculation about a serial killer or even a Satanic cult.
Ready to Start Listening?
True crime podcasts are a great way to pass the time, whether you’re commuting, doing chores, or just looking for something engaging to listen to. Check out any of the podcasts on this list and see which ones captivate you the most. Let us know if you have any other favorite true crime podcasts that you think should be on this list!
