40+ Best Podcasts of All Time: Quality Shows To Listen to

Key takeaways:

• This list of the best podcasts of all time is based on popularity, listener ratings, genre, production quality, and wide accessibility across platforms.
• Based on your listening platform: The Joe Rogan Experience is the best on Spotify, This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von is the best on YouTube, and This American Life on Apple Podcasts.
• For the best fiction podcast, try Legends of Avantaris, and for true crime, try Crime Junkie.‍
• If you want to learn something new, try Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History podcast or Radiolab.

Looking for a worthy podcast to listen to? How about starting with our list of the ultimate best podcasts of all time? 

With over two million and counting podcasts, sorting through the noise and finding the best shows can be challenging. That’s why we’re here with our curated list of the 40 must-listen podcasts (according to our somewhat questionable opinion).

40 Best Podcasts of All Time 

Of course, we should establish this upfront: “best” is subjective. You have your favorites, and we have ours. On the other hand, we have already provided you with a list of the most popular podcasts in 2024, so what is this list for?

In this article, we’re not trying to make any major statements on what constitutes the “greatest” podcasts across the board. After all, every person’s indefinable creativity and artistry is received differently, so “best” ultimately looks different to everyone.

Instead, we’ll give you our list of must-listen shows based on their production value, impressive ratings, great historical value, and wide availability on every listening app.

We’ll show you what they’re about and what—at least, according to us—made them successful. Whether you’re just looking for a new podcast to try or you want inspiration for your show, we’ve got you.

Disclaimer: We strive to provide a curated list of the best podcasts chosen for their success, production quality, and historical value. We neither endorse any of these podcasts nor necessarily share or align with their views on politics, religion, sexuality, or cultural matters. We encourage you to engage critically!

Let’s dig in!

Best Spotify podcast: The Joe Rogan Experience

• Host(s): Joe Rogan
• Categories: Entertainment, Comedy, Interviews
• Ratings: Apple (4.6), Spotify (4.8), YouTube (17.4M subscribers)

The "King of Spotify" has consistently been the #1 most listened-to podcast in the U.S. for a long time. The Joe Rogan Experience is the very definition of "mainstream" and it's a show that knows how to make everyone talk about it.

Rogan himself is a very open-minded, charismatic comedian who has no qualms about inviting even the most controversial guests to have a chat. He asks all kinds of uncensored questions, including uncomfortable ones that really push his guests.

Rogan's style is casual, honest, and incredibly unpredictable, and his willingness to explore unconventional ideas can be a blessing or a curse. Sometimes, that makes his podcast so engaging, while other times it can lead him into rabbit holes of controversies, conspiracy theories, or unpopular political takes.

Whether you agree with everything he or his guests talk about is up to you, but his ability to challenge conventional thinking has unquestionably made The Joe Rogan Experience a cultural phenomenon.

Other podcast recommendations for Spotify

Shawn Ryan

‍Shawn Ryan, a former U.S. Navy SEAL and CIA contractor, hosts a podcast featuring interviews with military veterans, law enforcement officers, and thought leaders. He talks about applying military skills to the job marketplace and helping veterans transition to civilian life. The Shawn Ryan Show will hit close to home with powerful, authentic stories from exceptional individuals, taking deep dives into philosophical discussions and current events.

Tucker Carlson Show

With The Tucker Carlson Show, there’s no middle ground—you either hate or love it. One of the most controversial media figures of the last decade, Tucker Carlson is seen as a savior from unwanted modernity and forced progressivism by some, and as a wolf in sheep's clothing by others (depending on their political views). He charges like a ram against mainstream narratives in his podcast, peppering political commentary and interviews with his witty and quippy retorts.

Candace

‍Candace is a provocative, politically oriented podcast that tackles current cultural issues from a conservative perspective. Candace Owens herself loves a direct, no-punches-pulled approach that challenges prevailing viewpoints in the media. If you’re looking for in-depth political debates, interviews, and monologues, her outspoken, unfiltered show will quickly become a feast you can't get enough of.

Best YouTube podcast: This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von

• Host(s): Theodor Capitani von Kurnatowski III (Theo Von)
• Categories: Comedy, Society, Interviews
• Ratings: Apple (4.8), Spotify (4.9), YouTube (3.18M subscribers)

One of the most popular podcasts on YouTube, This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von offers a healthy mix of comedy, social commentaries, and humorous journeys into life's oddities. A former reality show celebrity, Theodor Capitani von Kurnatowski III (or just “Theo Von”) launched his comedy career in 2000 when he was just 19 years old. He brings his Southern charm and off-the-cuff style to his show, often engaging listeners with comically colorful tales from his Louisiana upbringing.

Besides his unique sense of humor and uncanny ability to find profound meanings in seemingly mundane experiences (like working in a Pizza Hut), there are many more reasons to love Theo Von’s show. One of them? His ability to give space to all opinions, even the most polarized and controversial ones, and deal with them with freshness and light-heartedness.

Among a long list of star-studded guests, he interviewed former U.S. President Donald Trump and U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders within the same month. If you've had enough of the usual political tirades and want a more balanced, down-to-earth approach to current cultural and social issues, Theo Von is your man!

Other podcast recommendations for YouTube

The Diary of a CEO

‍Hosted by entrepreneur and self-made man Steven Bartlett, The Diary of a CEO’s overarching theme is achieving greatness. As the second most listened-to podcast in the United Kingdom, this show offers an inspirational journey toward self-improvement and success in business. In each episode, Steven interviews some of the world's greatest minds, seeking to pick their brains and discover how they shaped reality to their will.

Lex Fridman

‍Artificial intelligence (AI) researcher and MIT professor, Lex Fridman explores the frontiers of technology in his podcast, but he doesn’t stop there. With his trademark somber and thoughtful approach, he engages the world’s most famous tech leaders in deep discussions on life, philosophy, consciousness, and the future of humanity.‍

Modern Wisdom

‍Chris Williamson is a podcaster who knows how to leverage the full potential of video. His YouTube podcast Modern Wisdom has tremendous production values, evident in the attention to detail, lighting, and highly customized sets for each guest. Each episode features engaging conversations with experts, thought leaders, and other podcasters like Andrew Huberman, Brett Cooper, or John B. Allen on topics ranging from social commentary to health and personal development.

Best Apple podcast: This American Life

• Host(s): Ira Glass
• Categories: Culture, Society, Personal stories
• Ratings: Apple (4.6), Spotify (4.9)

Probably one of the best podcasts ever made, This American Life is a crossover from radio to podcasts. You can still find the public radio program on NPR stations across the U.S., but the podcast edition is accessible anywhere you can download podcasts. 

The content is fascinating no matter the medium and keeps more than 2 million listeners returning each week. The show pioneered narrative journalism, taking its listeners through various intriguing, heartwarming, and thought-provoking stories in each hour-long episode. In 2020, it won the Pulitzer Prize for best audio journalism. 

Every episode is a powerful personal story that captures the extraordinary in everyday life, keeping you glued to your seat. Major historical events of modern American history are narrated through the lenses of human drama, transforming journalism into a mundane yet profound personal experience.

If you’re a podcaster considering pivoting to video podcasts to keep your content fresh, look no further than This American Life for inspiration. Its producers understand how to transition from an increasingly outdated medium (radio) to a newer one—with grace and agility. 

Other podcast recommendations for Apple Podcasts

The Daily

‍This show condenses narrative storytelling principles into a bite-sized, 20-minute package. Think of The Daily as the New York Times but in podcast form, with enhanced production value thanks to the great music and top-quality audio clips. With over a million weekly downloads, it’s the progenitor of all daily news podcasts.

Dateline NBC

‍By far the oldest true crime show on this list (or any list), Dateline NBC is a TV program that dates back to 1992. It has since evolved into a popular podcast edition, which remains one of the best and most listened to of all time. With its rich history, Dateline NBC focuses on the “good” side of true crime storytelling. Instead of delving too deeply into the crimes and criminals themselves, it explores the perspectives of law enforcement, prosecutors, survivors, and witnesses.

Smartless

‍We all know Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett as the successful comedians that they are. But did you know that they also have a wildly popular podcast? In each episode of Smartless, one of the hosts chooses a mystery guest that the other two hosts only discover as they record. If you’re looking for a genuine laugh, you’ll want to listen to this podcast.

‍Best podcast for women: Call Her Daddy

• Host(s): Alex Cooper
• Categories: Sexuality, Relationships, Society
• Ratings: Apple (4.5), Spotify (4.1), YouTube (988k subscribers)

There is no holding back when it comes to Call Her Daddy. Host Alex Cooper offers her listeners an unfiltered experience discussing all things related to relationships and sex. You'll hear a lot of Alex's personal stories, but she also interviews celebrities, psychologists, and other interesting guests.

Fans love her humor and sex-positivity, but this podcast is definitely not for everyone, as it can get raunchy or too crude sometimes. Her sex-positive advice show heavily focuses on hookup culture, which can be off-putting to some listeners. However, she doesn't shy away from tackling mature discussions about mental health and personal development.

Whether you're looking for simple, sometimes superficial entertainment, gossip, or raw yet somehow inspiring insights, Call Her Daddy is a show worth more than a casual listen.

Other podcasts for women recommendations

We Can Do Hard Things

‍Glennon Doyle, Amanda Doyle, and Abby Wambach are three incredible women who bravely share their vulnerabilities and struggles in the most authentic and human way. Every episode of We Can Do Hard Things explores the realities of ordinary life, discussing challenges like loss, grief, exclusion, and feelings of isolation. If you’re looking for a show that speaks directly to the heart, look no further.

LadyGang

‍In each episode of LadyGang, Keltie Knight, Jac Vanek, and Becca Tobin engage in lively yet laid-back conversations covering various topics, from dating mishaps to dining preferences and everything in between. With a fun mix of celebrity interviews and hilarious life anecdotes, LadyGang is perfect if you're looking for light-hearted entertainment centered on womanhood, spiced up with some sparkling, girlfriend-style banter.

Women of Impact

‍Hosted by Lisa Bilyeu, co-founder of Quest Nutrition and Impact Theory, Women of Impact is a podcast about empowering women through the strength of other women. Each episode spotlights inspiring guests who share their stories of resilience and success, providing the audience with powerful insights on overcoming challenges, healing emotional wounds, achieving success, and discovering new purpose in life.

Best fiction/story podcast: Legends of Avantris

• Host(s): Richie, Mikey, Andy, Nikkie, Kelsey, Derek, and Mace
• Categories: Fiction, Fantasy, Comedy
• Ratings: Apple (4.9), Spotify (4.9), YouTube (1.58M subscribers)

Are you ready to laugh so hard it hurts with one of the funniest and most entertaining fantasy adventure podcasts ever made?

In Legends of Avantris, a group of adventurous players embarks on a series of playful, humorous, and light-hearted stunts. Their Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) 5th edition campaigns are all set in the homebrew fantasy world of Avantris.

As the plot unfolds, each episode showcases our party of valiant heroes fighting off monsters and villains. But there’s more! They’ll have to untangle their way out of a complex web of political intrigue, chaotic battles, and hilarious moments.

Don’t be fooled by the folk horror theme; Legends of Avantris removes any hint of darkness with its comical and goofy overtones. Get ready to laugh yourself into oblivion as the ghost of Chuckle the Clown (portrayed by Mikey Gilder) haunts the powerful assassin Gideon Coal (Mace Caffrey). He’ll keep you laughing non-stop with his never-ending barrage of silly and pitiful jokes.

The production quality is outstanding, and whether you’re a tabletop role-playing game player or not, their adventures will surely keep you entertained for hours on end.

Other fiction/story podcasts recommendations

The Spy Who‍

In the shadows, hidden from prying eyes, spies and secret intelligence operatives carry out their most covert missions. The Spy Who is a show from Wondery that reveals fascinating stories of intrigue, espionage, and mystery. Indira Varma and Raza Jaffrey deliver a fantastic listening experience, with top-quality voice acting and breathtaking dramatizations of the secret lives of covert operatives.  

The Edge of Sleep

‍Get ready for a thrilling journey into the paranormal with The Edge of Sleep. This thrilling fiction podcast is filled with mystery and suspense. Created by Jake Emanuel and Willie Block, and starring Markiplier, it tells the story of a night watchman who wakes up to a world where everyone who falls asleep never wakes up. Now, with a group of fellow survivors, it's up to him to uncover what happened.

Smosh Reads Reddit Stories

‍Everything created by the Smosh crew is a real laugh factory. Enter Smosh Reads Reddit Stories, a show where the hilariously entertaining host Shayne Topp and his crew react to the wildest and funniest Reddit posts. Each episode is filled with absurd tales, questionable advice from random users, and the messiest drama from the weirdest corners of this social network.

Best true crime podcast: Crime Junkie

• Host(s): Ashley Flowers & Brit Prawat
• Categories: True Crime
• Ratings: Apple (4.7), Spotify (4.8), YouTube (60.4k subscribers)

Currently, the #2 most listened-to podcast in the U.S., Crime Junkie, is also the preferred show among American women. So why didn’t we include this show in the “best for women” category? Because Crime Junkie is, first and foremost, the #1 best, most listened-to, and all-time fan-favorite true crime show! 

From historical serial killers to more recent convictions, Crime Junkie dives into both solved and unsolved cases, emphasizing the importance of awareness for victims. Hosts Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat bring a wonderfully natural chemistry to the show, creating a relaxed atmosphere you won’t expect from this genre.

They are highly knowledgeable about each subject, providing interesting information about every case. But, they do this while remaining concise and to the point, avoiding the forced pathos that often characterizes true crime shows.

Other true crime podcast recommendations

Morbid

‍One of the most successful shows from Wondery, Morbid is a true crime podcast where stories are seen through the lenses of an autopsy technician (Alaina Urquhart) and a hairstylist (Ash Kelley). If this duo seems odd, well, that's because it is. Expect a lot of impromptu comedy and funny takes even during the creepiest and spookiest moments. Morbid mixes spooky stories and criminal analysis with forensic expertise and well-timed humor, creating captivating storytelling that balances the dark with the delightful.

MrBallen Podcast

‍Consistently one of the top-ranking shows of all time, the MrBallen Podcast: Strange, Dark & Mysterious Stories is a must-listen for true crime enthusiasts. John B. Allen, a former U.S. Navy SEAL with a penchant for storytelling, engages his audience with his captivating “campfire stories” style. Unlike other true crime shows, the MrBallen Podcast covers not just crimes but also paranormal stories, historical mysteries, and American folklore. And if you like the guy, don’t forget he recently launched MrBallen’s Medical Mysteries podcast, too!

Serial

‍Often considered the best true-crime podcast of all time, Serial made history as the first to reach five million downloads on iTunes (not to mention the first to win the Peabody Award). Instead of focusing on a different crime each episode, Serial narrates a true crime story over an entire season. The kicker is that the host and investigator, Sarah Koenig, don’t know how the investigation will end until shortly before you do.

Best history podcast: Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History

• Host(s): Dan Carlin
• Categories: History, Documentary, Educational
• Ratings: Apple (4.8), Spotify (5.0), YouTube (533k subscribers)

There are history podcasts, educational podcasts, and fiction podcasts, and then there’s Dan Carlin's Hardcore History, an ingenious combination of all three.

His out-of-the-box thinking delves deep into historical wars and events like World War I, Caesar's Gallic Wars, and the rise of the Khans, ensuring a unique and hardcore point of view on these events.

Each episode is narrated with a gravelly, imaginative flair that is an absolute masterclass in compelling storytelling. Named "America's Best History Teacher" by HuffPost, Dan Carlin has figured out how to combine his passion for history with his knack for the dramatic. And he doesn't stop at just telling you what happened—he pushes you to question why it happened and how it felt for those living through it.

The lesson? Choose a topic you care about, paint a fascinating picture, and your listeners will return.

Other history podcast recommendations

• The Rest is History: Consistently top-ranked among history podcasts, The Rest is History proves that history doesn't need to be boring. If you appreciate deadpan British humor, you'll love hosts Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook's witty banter. They cover everything from the French Revolution to mysterious ape-men and keep history engaging while keeping every episode under the 1-hour mark.
• Conspiracy Theories: The Conspiracy Theories podcast, produced by Parcast, is home to the world's most fascinating conspiracy stories, from mummy murders to vampires and alien landings. Listeners' discretion is advised! Take everything with a critical mindset, as the line between fact and speculation can sometimes blur, and there are plenty of reasons to believe in the unbelievable.
• The Why Files: Looking for some truly unexplainable historical mysteries you probably haven’t heard about? The Why Files reveals everything you didn’t think was possible. For example, the Vatican hiding a time machine or the claim that Charlemagne never existed and we now live 300 years in the future. But don’t worry—Andrew Gentile and his goldfish sidekick provide sound and reasonable debunking of the most outlandish theories at the end of each episode!

Best educational podcast: Radiolab

• Host(s): Lulu Miller and Latif Nasser
• Categories: Educational, Science, Documentary
• Ratings: Apple (4.6), Spotify (4.8), YouTube (84.4K subscribers)

Radiolab is one of those shows that has shaped the history of podcasts. It’s a long-time favorite among science enthusiasts and was originally launched on radio in 2002. More than 20 years later, Radiolab continues to captivate audiences with a consistent presence at the top of Apple and Spotify charts.

Each episode covers various topics, from scientific breakthroughs to historical puzzles, philosophical debates, and seemingly unexplainable events.

Meticulously researched and produced by a talented team, the show stands out for its unparalleled audio production. Dialogues, interviews, and commentaries are seamlessly woven with masterfully crafted sound effects and thematic music, creating an immersive experience where every moment feels vividly real.

If you haven’t listened to Radiolab yet, give it a try. Its distinctive storytelling and engaging narratives are unmatched in radio and podcasting and are worth at least one hour of your time (or many more).

Other educational recommendations for Spotify

• Huberman Lab: Dr. Andrew Huberman, a neuroscientist at Stanford, offers deep insights into the brain, psychiatry, and cognitive functioning. In Huberman Lab, he explores the inner workings of the brain, nervous system, and human perception. This podcast is the go-to source if you’re looking for tips to improve your health, sleep habits, and hormone balance or if you're simply curious about how your body and mind work.
• Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard: If you’re looking for a podcast diving into authentic experiences, vulnerabilities, and insights, you’ll want to listen to Armchair Expert. Dax Shepard and his co-host Monica Padman know precisely how to ask the right questions and get honest with their guests about their real-life experiences.
• Stuff You Should Know: From scientific mysteries to pop culture and satanism, Stuff You Should Know provides its audience with a healthy dose of obscure and weird things to laugh about since 2008. Anything exciting or strange is fair game for the producers’ aggressive research skills and obsessive digging. This show is still so strong to this very day thanks to the undeniable chemistry between the hosts, Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant.

Best self-help podcast: The Mel Robbins Podcast

• Host(s): Mel Robbins
• Categories: Self-help, Health, Educational
• Ratings: Apple (4.8), Spotify (4.8), YouTube (3.01M subscribers)

The Mel Robbins Podcast is a top-ranked show that delivers some of the best, most practical advice on how to change your life for the better. What sets Robbins apart from other self-help podcasts is how she encourages you to listen and actively engage and take control of your life.

Mel Robbins isn’t new to facing major life challenges and coming out victorious. She leads her own media company, advising major corporations such as LinkedIn, Starbucks, and even Spotify itself. She has experienced every piece of advice she provides and knows very well what works and what doesn’t.

During the show’s episodes, she recounts countless personal anecdotes about her struggles and lessons, blending them with science-backed research. Whether she's discussing how to boost your confidence, sharpen your charisma, or enhance your productivity, she knows the best tools to make lasting change. 

Listen to this podcast, and you’ll get a ton of hands-on tips to improve your mental health and career today, rather than tomorrow.

Other podcasts recommendations

• On Purpose with Jay Shetty: Jay Shetty is a former Hindu monk who decided to use his experience to inspire millions of people to become better versions of themselves. And you can bet he did. Currently the #1 mental health podcast on Apple Podcasts, On Purpose explores wisdom and personal growth through empathy and compassion. Here, Jay teaches you how to nurture love, respect others' opinions, and overcome negativity by finding balance in your life.
• Money Rehab with Nicole Lapin: Whether we like it or not, money (and how to handle it) is important in our lives. In her quick, bite-sized episodes of Money Rehab, Nicole Lapin teaches you everything about the economy, finance, and how money works. From running a family business to calculating a profit margin, Nicole makes even the most complex financial concepts simple and accessible.
• The Ramsey Show: Looking to finally take control of your career and financial life? Dave Ramsey and his team of experts are here to help you make sense of the complex aspects of the current political economy, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. The Ramsey Show digs into all areas of finance that can impact you personally, including debt, the paycheck-to-paycheck trap, taxes, mortgages, and much more.

Best sports podcast: Pardon My Take

• Host(s): Dan "Big Cat" Katz and Eric “PFT Commenter” Sollenberger
• Categories: Sports, Comedy
• Ratings: Apple (4.8), Spotify (4.9), YouTube (575k subscribers)

Pardon My Take is hosted by Dan "Big Cat" Katz and Eric “PFT Commenter” Sollenberger. It’s a podcast designed for award-winning listeners (AWLs) who want to stay updated with sports news and match results while enjoying a good laugh (or two, or three).

Produced by Barstool Sports, Pardon My Take has consistently ranked at the top of most charts since its debut on iTunes in February 2016. Irreverent, outspoken, sometimes unpredictable, but almost always funny, the hosts expertly blend humor with genuine sports knowledge.

Covering all types of sports focusing on football, Pardon My Take features Q&As, interviews with athletes, and special segments that could be about pretty much anything. Expect in-depth sports analysis, but more importantly, expect the unexpected! From a barrage of “R” rated jokes to making fun of the most cloying and clichéd sports media tropes or participating in some ridiculous athletic challenges, Big Cat and PFT are an endless source of ideas and laughs.

Other sports podcast recommendations

• New Heights with Jason and Travis Kelce: Okay, chances are you’ve heard of New Heights with Jason and Travis Kelce because you’re a Swiftie! But even if you’re not, Travis and Jason Kelce are here to bring you the latest NFL news, insights, and interviews with top-tier athletes. What sets this show apart is how the brothers often share behind-the-scenes stories and personal experiences, and yes, they talk about Taylor Swift, too.
• Club Shay Shay: Hosted by NFL legend Shannon Sharpe, Club Shay Shay is a must-listen for anyone looking to stay in the loop about everything happening in the sports world and beyond. In each episode, Sharpe conducts sharp interviews with athletes and celebrities on topics ranging from sports to current events, controversies, and pop culture in a fresh and entertaining way.
• Fantasy Footballers: The ultimate podcast for fantasy football enthusiasts, Fantasy Footballers is the show you must follow to win your league. Hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright provide smart insights, expert analysis, and game-changing opinions to help you create the perfect roster for all your matchups.

Final Thoughts

Now that you've got a list of the ultimate best podcasts, you're ready to start listening!

If you're new to the podcasting world, we have a guide on how to listen to podcasts or even how to start your own show.

One thing for sure is that if you're looking to record a podcast, Riverside is a great place to start. With easy-to-use tools and studio-quality recordings, any beginner can get started on creating a high-end podcast show. Sign up on Riverside to give it a go!

FAQs on Best Podcasts

Want to know more about the best podcasts you can listen to? Here are our Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the most popular platform to listen to podcasts?

According to data from Cumulus Media and Signal Hill Insights, the most popular platform for listening to podcasts in the U.S. is YouTube (31%), followed by Spotify (21%) and Apple Podcasts (12%).

What is the most downloaded podcast of all time?

According to the Guinness World Records website, the most downloaded podcast is The Adam Carolla Show, which was downloaded 59,574,843 times between 2009 and 2011. This might seem surprising, but it's important to note that today, most people listen to podcasts through streaming services rather than downloading them.

What is the most listened to podcast show?

According to the Edison Research Podcast Consumer Tracking Report, the top most listened podcast in the U.S. Q2 2024 was The Joe Rogan Experience, followed by Crime Junkie, and The Daily. 

What is the most viewed podcast episode ever?

According to the Guinness World Records, the most viewed podcast episode is by the Saudi Arabian YouTuber known as Thmanyah (which means “eight” in Arabic). The episode "Secrets to Thriving Relationships" was posted in 2016 and has garnered 119 million views. Joe Rogan’s most famous interview with Elon Musk during episode #1169 comes in second with 68 million views since 2018.