Best Podcasts On Spotify: Top Charts & Top 30 Breakdown

Key takeaways:

• The best podcasts on Spotify span diverse genres, including true crime, comedy, culture, politics, news, and science, offering something for every listener's taste.
• The top 10 Spotify podcasts right now include The Shawn Ryan Show, The Joe Rogan Experience, Rotten Mango, and The Daily.

With countless Spotify podcasts, knowing where to start can be challenging. 

There's something for everyone, from true crime to tech, sports, news, and more.

If you’re not sure where to begin, read on. This is your ultimate guide to the 30 best podcasts on Spotify. Here's what you should be listening to right now.

Best Podcasts on Spotify: The Most Listened-To Top 10

Let’s have a look at the very best of the best. Stay with us as we explore the 10 best podcasts right now:

1. Shawn Ryan Show

Host(s): Shawn Ryan

Genre: Culture, Personal stories, Philosophy

Spotify rating: 4.9

Shawn Ryan is a former U.S. Navy SEAL and CIA Contractor; you can bet he’s a man who has witnessed a lot in his life. His podcast features in-depth interviews with military veterans, law enforcement officers, intelligence operatives, and thought leaders from various fields. 

Known for his candid, no-nonsense approach, Shawn combines deep technical knowledge with an ability to make complex topics accessible to a general audience. His show has become a reference point for U.S. military veterans transitioning to civilian life. During each episode of the Shawn Ryan Show, he combines powerful personal stories with insightful discussions on how to apply military-learned skills to the civilian sector.

Recently, Ryan has expanded his content to include political, military, and historical analyses of current events, modern culture, and deeper philosophical topics—all with his trademark focus on respect and authenticity.

2. The Joe Rogan Experience

Host(s): Joe Rogan

Genre: Comedy, Interviews, Society

Spotify rating: 4.8

Even though The Joe Rogan Experience isn’t currently ranked #1, that doesn’t mean Joe Rogan has truly lost his throne as the “King of Podcasts.” With 5.44 billion total views over more than a decade, his show hasn’t just stood the test of time—it has redefined what success means in podcasting.

Rogan interviews guests from all walks of life, always adding his signature mix of humor, edgy social commentary, and unhinged opinions. From Elon Musk to Bernie Sanders and Edward Snowden, he has sat down with some of the most influential figures of recent years.

As a staunch advocate for free speech, Rogan goes to any cost. He’s hosted some of the most controversial (and polarizing) opinions, sometimes even bordering on conspiracy. Still, hate it or love it, you still can’t miss it!

3. Candace

Host(s): Candace Owens

Genre: Culture, Society

Spotify rating: 4.0

Candace Owens is a bold, unapologetic commentator known for her unfiltered takes on culture, politics, and current events. No button is too hot to press, and no topic is too controversial for her to tackle. She consistently challenges mainstream narratives with her unique perspective on today’s most pressing issues.

In her podcast Candace, she frequently hosts high-profile guests for meaningful, often provocative conversations that dive deep into complex social and political topics. Her direct communication style and willingness to address contentious issues have earned her a broad following, extending well beyond her core conservative audience.

4. The Tucker Carlson Show

Host(s): Tucker Carlson

Genre: News, Politics, Society

Spotify rating: 4.2

Gaining traction at lightning speed, The Tucker Carlson Show has rapidly become one of the top news podcasts on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. At one point, it even surpassed The Joe Rogan Experience as the top podcast in America—though only for a short while.

Tucker Carlson has always been as controversial as his show, frequently finding himself at the center of some media storm. His new platform has allowed him to discuss politics, social issues, and current events without filters or constraints, and this can be a blessing or a curse (depending on your point of view).

Regardless of where one stands on his opinions, Carlson has a knack for engaging his audiences with his sharp intellect, witty commentary, and passionate monologues. Just don’t expect him to leave any room for neutrality in his takes!

5. Talk Tuah

Host(s): Haliey Welch

Genre: Entertainment, Comedy, Personal stories

Spotify rating: 3.0

A genuine surprise that is taking the podcast charts by storm, Talk Tuah’s popularity has skyrocketed just days after its launch, and it shows no signs of slowing down. Comic, irreverent, and undeniably fresh, Talk Tuah blends a healthy dose of authenticity, awkwardness, and rapid-fire conversations.

Primarily aimed at a younger audience, it’s hosted by Hailey Welch, a Tennessee girl who went viral after a drunk joke. She keeps things light and fun, sharing stories about herself, her best friends, and their hectic party life. With only four episodes (and many more in the works), it’s hard to predict how this show will evolve.

6. The Daily

Host(s): Michael Barbaro and Sabrina Tavernise

Genre: News

Spotify rating: 4.6

Produced by The New York Times and hosted by Michael Barbaro and Sabrina Tavernise, The Daily is an award-winning podcast that serves as your go-to source for the latest news stories. Every weekday, it delivers a concise, comprehensive overview of current events in just twenty minutes.

Each episode ensures that even the most complex topics are made engaging and accessible, often featuring interviews with experts or journalists who provide insightful analysis. The Daily is perfect for those who want to think critically about the world around them while staying informed as they go about their daily lives.

7. ChainsFR

Host(s): Chains

Genre: Comedy

Spotify rating: 4.8

ChainsFR epitomizes "peak Gen Z" humor at its finest. While the animated stick figures that characterize Chains’ YouTube videos aren’t visible on Spotify, you’re not missing much. These characters' dank, dry humor comes through in the podcast, as most of it is contained within compact, surreal dialogues. 

In his podcast, Chains discusses topics like school and life but does so in a comic, almost dreamlike tone that’s quite hypnotizing. The best way to enjoy his podcast is while you are very relaxed!

8. Rotten Mango

Host(s): Stephanie Soo

Genre: True crime

Spotify rating: 4.9

Ready for true crime with a delightfully unexpected kawaii twist? 

Stephanie Soo is the artsy and quirky narrator of the Rotten Mango podcast, and she’s more than able to blend sweetness and darkness in perfect harmony in every one of her stories.

However, Rotten Mango is more than just your typical serial killer tales wrapped in a cuter package. Soo has a remarkable talent for humanizing victims while thoroughly examining the motives of their perpetrators, delving deep into the psychology of both in a way that few others do. This, plus a strong focus on exotic and often lesser-known murders and mysteries from the Far East, makes Rotten Mango stand out as a unique addition to the true crime genre.

9. Crime Junkie

Host(s): Ashley Flowers & Brit Prawat

Genre: True crime

Spotify rating: 4.8

Crime Junkie is a true crime podcast hosted by Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat. The hosts have a great vibe together, and their chemistry creates a relaxed atmosphere uncommon for this type of podcast. Listening to the show feels like you’re listening in on two friends discussing their favorite subject.

Both solved and unsolved cases are discussed in each episode, and Ashley and Brit can be very vocal when justice has not been served. They also share their theories on how they would approach solving these crimes if they were in the investigators' shoes. Expect the usual true crime themes like murder, serial killers, and missing persons, all told in an engaging and articulated way. Episodes can last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.

10. The Lol Podcast

Host(s): Harper Zilmer, Cash Baker, Maverick Baker, Kate Marie Baker, and Kenzie Baker

Genre: Comedy, Entertainment

Spotify rating: 4.8

With Kenzie Baker, the oldest of the show's co-hosts, being just 24, The LOL Podcast is a comedic podcast mainly targeting a young audience. Don’t get us wrong, though: this show isn’t for kids! Cash, Maverick, Kate, Harper, and Kenzie are a lively bunch of TikTok misfits who will treat you with a constant barrage of humor and relatable stories. 

Discussing everything from pop culture to family life, this dynamic band of energetic teens will be constantly switching gears from comedy to serious reflections in the blink of an eye. This entertaining and light-hearted podcast offers a mix of laughter, heartfelt moments, and plenty of spontaneity.

Most Listened to Podcasts on Spotify Ranks 11-30

11. This Past Weekend w/Theo Von

Host(s): Theodor Capitani Von Kurnatowski III

Genre: Comedy

Spotify rating: 4.9

Theo Von knows how to sprinkle a healthy dose of humor and humanity into every interview and social commentary he hosts. Get ready to find the most profound meaning in even the oddest everyday life experiences.

12. Huberman Lab 

Host(s): Andrew Huberman

Genre: Health, Science

Spotify rating: 4.9

Dr. Andrew Huberman is a real celebrity in neuroscience and medicine. His podcast explores the deepest secrets and inner workings of the human brain and nervous system.

13. Bad Friends

Host(s): Andrew Santino and Bobby Lee 

Genre: Comedy

Spotify rating: 4.8

Andrew Santino and Bobby Lee are two seasoned comedians who talk about what they love most: being bad. Don’t worry, though. If there’s one thing they’re not bad at, it’s comedy! If you want a good laugh, then Bad Friends is the show for you.

14. Megyn Kelly Show

Host(s): Megyn Kelly

Genre: Society

Spotify rating: 4.7

Megyn Kelly hosts a podcast about politics, law, and culture that pulls no punches. Brace yourself for some of the most honest conversations with one of the toughest yet fairest personalities in the podcasting world.

15. Markiplier

Host(s): Mark Edward Fischbach (Markiplier)

Genre: Comedy

Spotify rating: 4.6

Markiplier is a high-energy, edgy, and funny podcast that covers almost every topic imaginable, from movies to video games and supermarkets. With over 5,000 podcast episodes to date, you're bound to find something you like.

16. Serial Killers

Host(s): Greg Polcyn and Vanessa Richardson

Genre: True Crime, History

Spotify rating: 4.8

As the title suggests, this podcast  digs into the minds of serial killers, investigating their motives, backgrounds, and psychology, as well as the circumstances that lead to their most ominous crimes.

17. Call Her Daddy

Host(s): Alex Cooper

Genre: Sex, Relationships, Comedy

Spotify rating: 4.0

Call Her Daddy is a sex-positive, sometimes raunchy, nearly always entertaining podcast about unfiltered life experiences. Alex Cooper often interviews influential figures and celebrities, asking them plenty of questions about their private lives.

18. The Mel Robbins Podcast

Host(s): Mel Robbins

Genre: Culture, Health, Society

Spotify rating: 4.8

A powerful, educational self-help podcast hosted by an extraordinary self-made woman. Mel Robbins isn’t afraid to open up and share her vulnerabilities, offering her listeners incredible life lessons.

19. Clooless Podcast

Host(s): Grizzy, Bigpuffer, Elasticdroid and Pezzy

Genre: Tru

Spotify rating: 5.0

Elasticdroid, Bigpuffer, Pezzy, and Grizz offer some big laughs in the Clooless podcast! They’ll go on for hours, endlessly talking about random topics—from how evil Tesla drivers are to the trauma of being a band kid.

20. Up First from NPR

Host(s): Leila Fadel, Steve Inskeep, Michel Martin and A Martinez

Genre: Daily News

Spotify rating: 4.7

A news podcast for early birds, Up First airs daily at 6:30 AM, summarizing the three most important stories of the day from NPR News.

21. We're All Insane

Host(s): Devorah Roloff

Genre: Relationships, Stories

Spotify rating: 4.6

Were All Insane is a podcast discussing the hardships and traumas experienced by real-life people. Even the heaviest, most delicate stories are discussed thoughtfully and tactfully.

22. MrBallen Podcast: Strange, Dark & Mysterious

Host(s): John B. Allen

Genre: True Crime

Spotify rating: 4.9

One of the best true crime narrators, John B. Allen is a former U.S. Navy SEAL turned podcaster. In the Mr Ballen Podcast, he tells tall tales of local folklore, teeth-grinding crimes, and unexplained mysteries.

23. Kill Tony

Host(s): Tony Hinchcliffe and Brian Redban

Genre: Comedy

Spotify rating: 4.8

Tony Hinchcliffe and Brian Redban have an incredible talent for outwitting and annoying celebrities with awkward questions and silly jokes. Kill Tony will crack you up with funny moments, genuine laughs, and tons of unscripted moments.

24. The Diary Of A CEO with Steven Bartlett 

Host(s): Steven Bartlett

Genre: Business, Education, Health

Spotify rating: 4.8

If you’re looking for tips on how to run a successful business, this is the podcast for you. In his podcast on self-improvement, Steven Bartlett provides inspiring insights to help you achieve greatness in your career and life.

25. The Dan Bongino Show

Host(s): Dan Bongino

Genre: Politics, Society

Spotify rating: 4.8

Dan Bongino is a former Secret Service agent. His unique background allows him to analyze American politics, policy issues, and culture from a distinct point of view.

26. Lex Fridman Podcast

Host(s): Lex Fridman

Genre: Technology

Spotify rating: 4.8

Get ready for a deep dive into technology and science, with plenty of detours into philosophy and what the future holds for humanity. Lex Fridman's somber interviews will keep you glued to your seat as he speaks with world-class scientists, entrepreneurs, artists, and thinkers.

27. Pod Save America

Host(s): Jon Favreau, Jon Lovett, Dan Pfeiffer and Tommy Vietor

Genre: Politics

Spotify rating: 4.4

Jon Favreau and his co-hosts, all former Obama staffers, break down current events with sharp wit and humor in Pod Save America. With their political expertise and insider knowledge, they discuss the most complex policy issues in an insightful yet accessible way.

28. Morbid

Host(s): Alaina Urquhart and Ash Kelley

Genre: True Crime

Spotify rating: 4.7

What could a hairstylist and an autopsy technician have in common? Besides their dark humor and love for all things weird and morbid? This true crime podcast will engage you with a dash of quippy humor, even as it narrates the creepiest crimes. 

29. Smosh Reads Reddit Stories

Host(s): Shayne Topp

Genre: Comedy, Relationships

Spotify rating: 3.7

A laugh factory full of ridiculous moments, you won’t stop cackling as you listen to Smosh and his crew comment on the most absurd stories on Reddit. This high-octane show has hilarious conversations and Shayne Topp’s signature overdramatized readings.

30. Distractible

Host(s): Mark Edward Fischbach (Markiplier), Wade Barnes and Bob Muyskens

Genre: Comedy, Entertainment, Stories

Spotify rating: 5.0

Distractible is an absolutely chaotic and endlessly entertaining podcast where you know how it starts but have no idea where the conversation will end. Markiplier, Bob, and Wade compete to tell the best stories, constantly derailing into outrageously irrelevant tangents in one of the most unpredictable podcasts on Spotify.

Final Thoughts

These are just a few of the top podcasts on Spotify, but there are plenty more to discover. Spotify’s podcast library is updated daily, with creators continuously adding fresh content for listeners to enjoy.

It’s impossible to definitively say which Spotify podcast is the best, as each has unique features. Rather than searching for “the best ever,” focus on finding the one that best suits your personal preferences. Feel free to use our list as a great starting point, though!

Learn more: Riverside partners with Anchor by Spotify: Create your video podcast for millions of viewers

FAQs on the Best Spotify Podcasts

How do Spotify Charts work?

Spotify Charts rank podcasts based on their popularity, using in-app data to determine the number of downloads and listens daily. The charts are updated regularly, usually several times a day.  For more detailed information, check our article on how Spotify charts work. 

What is the #1 podcast in the world right now?

Even if it’s not currently ranking as the #1 podcast on Spotify, the best, most listened-to podcast worldwide on all platforms combined, is The Joe Rogan Experience. With 3 billion listeners and tens of millions of subscribers on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube, Joe Rogan’s podcast remains a mile ahead of any second-best competitor.

Who is currently number 1 on Spotify?

The top-ranked Spotify podcast in the United States is the Shawn Ryan Show podcast, hosted by former U.S. Navy SEAL and CIA Contractor Shawn Ryan. However, Spotify podcast charts are updated daily, so rankings are always subject to change.

How to see the top podcasts on Spotify?

To view the top podcasts on Spotify, check their Podcast Charts page here. Scroll down the page until you find two drop-down menus. From the left, you can select the country you’re interested in; from the right, you can select your preferred podcast category. Choose “Top Podcasts” from the right menu to see the best podcasts currently ranking on Spotify.