55+ Top Podcasts to Listen to in 2024 (According to Genre)

Top-rated podcasts everyone must listen to in 2024

If you're looking for the best podcasts of 2023, you've come to the right place! Here are 10 standout podcast shows across all genres and categories.

1. The Joe Rogan Experience 

Genre: Entertainment

The Joe Rogan Experience, hosted by comedian Joe Rogan, is one of the most popular podcasts of all time. Rogan welcomes a range of celebrity guests to discuss everything from entertainment to current affairs. This podcast can always be counted on to add a fresh opinion to public discourse and to feature a star-studded guest list.

2. 60 Songs That Explain the '90s 

Genre: Music, culture

60 Songs That Explain the '90s is a fun, fresh overview of a great musical decade. In each episode, host Rob Harvilla chooses a single song to dissect, analyze, and use in a broader discussion of the 1990s. Listeners can expect fun facts, interesting histories, and sweeping cultural examinations to the tune of a classic 90s soundtrack. You'll pick up on songs and details you've never heard before!

3. MrBallen Podcast: Strange, Dark & Mysterious Stories

Genre: True crime, mystery

Unlike the usual true crime podcast, the MrBallen Podcast covers everything from paranormal stories all the way to typical crime mysteries. It’s currently, one of the top-ranking podcasts and fans love it for host John Allen’s captivating storytelling.

4. Code Switch 

Genre: Politics, history, culture

Code Switch is a great podcast for listeners interested in learning about race and ethnicity. This show details many different aspects of life that are influenced by race and racial issues, as well as tackling difficult subjects, like racial attacks and other news events. The podcast offers an opportunity for people of color to share their stories and examine racial politics.

5. You're Wrong About 

Genre: History

You're Wrong About is a unique and innovative podcast designed to make you question what you think you know. Each episode, this podcast examines a new commonly held collective opinion, debunking myths and applying journalist skills to discover the truth. As it turns out, what you think you know isn't always fact. You're Wrong About is a fresh, engaging approach to combatting disinformation.

6. Black Girl Song Book 

Genre: Music

The Black Girl Song Book podcast is a deep-dive into the music industry, with each episode focusing on a new Black female artist. Hosted by Danyel Smith, editor-in-chief at Vibe, this podcast covers art, history, race, music, and everything in between. You can expect to discover plenty of insider secrets from the music industry, all while learning more about the lives, careers, and works of some of the world's most talented Black songstresses.

7. The New Yorker: Fiction 

Genre: Fiction, short stories

The New Yorker: Fiction podcast is a great source of literary genius! With every new episode, the podcast features a current New Yorker staffer reading a short story by a former New Yorker writer. The result is a clever sand thoughtful podcast, where listeners can enjoy innovative pieces of fiction and hear from the greatest writers in New York City.

8. Stuff You Should Know 

Genre: Society and culture

Stuff You Should Know is a great podcast for avid learners, offering a basic introduction into a range of fascinating topics. Each week, this podcast chooses a new interest to cover, delivering a clear and comprehensive overview designed to helps listeners find new hobbies and interests. No matter what you're interested in, Stuff You Should Know is bound to have something for you!

9. Ctrl Alt Delete 

Genre: Technology

Ctrl Alt Delete invites new guests every episode to discuss the role of social and digital media in modern life and creativity. Each week, this podcast examines the impact of the worldwide web when host Emma Gannon chats to actors, writers, and other creative people. The Ctrl Al Delete show is a fascinating critique of the digital media landscape, showing how an online network can impact offline lifestyle.

10. Search Engine

Genre: Technology

You know all those random questions you search up online when you can’t fall asleep?

Well, that’s exactly what Search Engine answers.

Big publications like the Times and Vogue named Search Engine one of the best podcasts of 2023, so if you haven’t already, it’s time to give it a listen this year. Host, PJ Vogt uncovers all your late search engine questions, which leads to interesting topics like Who should be in charge of AI or Does anyone actually like their job?

You’re definitely in for a something you’ve never heard of before.

11. How Did This Get Made? 

Genre: Entertainment

How Did This Get Made? offers listeners the chance to learn more about the film industry, especially bad movies. Every week, this podcast tackles a new not-so-great movie, asking the question "How did this get made?" Whether the film critic hosts are in the studio or recording live, they can be counted upon to dissect some of the worst movies ever made, examining what makes them so bad and why they're still so popular.

12. Anything Goes with Emma Chamberlain

Genre: Society

Anything Goes with Emma Chamberlain covers all kinds of social and cultural topics, with host Emma offering her opinions on the latest in pop culture and worldview. Listeners can expect a new topic every week, centered around whatever Emma has been thinking about.

13. The Always Sunny Podcast

Genre: Entertainment

The Always Sunny Podcast is perfect for fans of the popular TV show It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. The podcast, hosted by Glenn, Charlie, and Rob, chats about the making of the show with plenty of great behind-the-scenes info!

14. Scamfluencers

Genre: Entertainment

The Scamfluences podcast details some of the greatest scams in internet (and influencer) history. Listeners tune in to hear the twists and turns of social media influencers turned super scam artists, with new episodes releasing every week.

15. Cool People Who Did Cool Stuff

Genre: Education

Cool People Who Did Cool Stuff is about just that! Every week, this podcast covers a new historical figure with a fascinating story, introducing ensemble casts and incredible histories, from amazing inventions to world-changing revolutions.  

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Top podcasts to listen to according to genre

Searching for a specific podcast topic or just something related to a subject you're interested in? Here are some of our top recommendations for podcasts across a range of popular genres.

Top crime podcasts

1. Crimetown

The Crimetown podcast isn't quite a traditional true-crime show. Unlike a typical true crime podcast, which focuses on specific stories, this podcast looks at the crime culture of a new town every season. Crimetown paints crime issues in city and small town landscapes, analyzing trends from corrupt leadership in Providence, Rhode Island, to gritty cases in Detroit.

2. Swindled

Swindled is a fascinating podcast, detailing white-collar crimes such as fraud, bribery, and insider trading. This podcast takes a unique angle, looking at the complexities of corporate America and using archive records and journalist research to uncover high-profile corruption cases.

3. Unsolved Murders

The Unsolved Murders podcast is exactly what it sounds like, detailing cold cases from around the globe. The show includes dramatic narration and reconstructions, with each new episode focusing on a new case. This podcast includes actors instead of witnesses for dramatization.

4. Crime Junkie

The Crime Junkie podcast publishes a new episode every week, with host Ashely Flowers stopping by to chat about her latest true-crime interests. This podcast takes a conversational tone, making it feel like a night discussing the news with friends.

5. Once Upon a Crime

Once Upon a Crime shares true-crime stories on a chapter-by-chapter basis, with cases grouped by topic. This podcast covers a range of cases, both historical and more recent. It also covers crime in the celebrity and high-society world. Each story offers something completely new.

Top comedy podcasts

1. Office Ladies

Office Ladies is hosted by Jenna Fischer and Angela Kingsey from the TV show The Office, launching just before the show's finale. This podcast breaks down each episode of The Office, giving listeners entertaining insights and funny behind-the-scenes details from the filming of the popular show.

2. Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend

Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend is a comedic approach to the classic interview format. O'Brien, former host of the Late Night Show, invites old TV guests to chat and maybe become his new best friend. This podcast is designed to be light, funny, and entertaining, while sharing insight into O'Brien's time as a talkshow host.

3. Trashy Divorces

Trashy Divorces is a good podcast about bad marriages. This show offers a funny and entertaining overview of a series of doomed relationships. Some episodes detail high-profile celebrity divorces straight from the pages of an airport magazine, while others focus on not-so-well-known but just as interesting marital mishaps.

4. Anna Faris is Unqualified

Anna Faris is Unqualified, hosted by famous actress Anna Faris, is a funny spin on relationship advice. Every episode, Faris speaks with podcast listeners seeking her misinformed romantic expertise. Every episode also includes an interview with a celebrity guest or pop culture figure.

5. The Worst Idea of All Time

The Worst Idea of All Time is hosted by New Zealand comedians Tim Batt and Guy Montgomery. This comedy duo watch the same movie every week for a year, re-reviewing what are widely considered to be bad films every episode. This podcast is designed to bring comedy to the familiar, with every episode including a shining light segment, where the hosts highlight this week's favorite element of the year's film.

6. What now? with Trevor Noah

Over a year after leaving the Today Show, Trevor Noah is back in the hosting seat, this time though, with his own podcast. Each episode features a celebrity guest that Trevor candidly talks to about a variety of topics. These conversations feel natural and you’re bound to laugh with Trevor’s humor and vibrant personality.

Top sports podcasts

1. 31 Thoughts

The 31 Thoughts podcast is an entertaining source of all things hockey. This podcast, hosted by Jeff Marek and Elliotte Friedman, details all elements of the sport, giving attention to all Canadian teams. The show also features regular interviews with hockey player guests.

2. Executive Access

Executive Access offers an insight into the baseball world. Listen to get a glimpse into office antics, as well as featured interviews from managers, presidents, and decision makers in sports. This podcast provides a little-known perspective on the game and is hosted by former Yankees beat writer Mark Feinsand.

3. The Bill Simmons Podcast

The Bill Simmons Podcast is great for casual sports fans. This podcast mixes sports with music, movies, and other pop culture news. It features a great range of entertainment, including guest appearances from successful athletes and well-known celebrities. The podcast takes a comedic approach, making it a popular listen for audiences.

4. All The Smoke

All the Smoke is a popular basketball podcast, releasing new episodes twice a week. This show is hosted by Stephen Jackson and Matt Barnes, who cover all the latest news in the basketball world, interspersed with high-profile celebrity interviews. Previously, the podcast has featured Lil Wayne and the late Kobe Bryant!

5. Men in Blazers

Men in Blazers offers an inside look at the soccer world, with hosts Roger Bennett and Michael Davies sharing the latest in soccer news and events. Aiming to promote more interest in the game, this podcast often includes appearances from well-known celebrities, including James Corden, Will Ferrell, and Carmelo Anthony.

5. New Heights with Jason and Travis Kelce

Swiftie or not, you likely know who famous NFL footballers, Travis and Jason Kelce are. Instead of just focusing on the latest sports news, in New Heights you’ll get more insight into the behind-the-scenes life of these athletes. Travis and Kelce interview a variety of sportspeople, but they also talk about their family, personal stories and everyday lives.

Top news podcasts

1. World Business Report

The World Business Report podcast is the perfect source of business and finance news. This podcast publishes new episodes several times a day when news breaks, keeping listeners up to date with the latest business-related information. The World Business Report has a global focus, covering everything from politics to finance, trade, immigration, and corporate work.

2. The Globalist

The Globalist released five new episodes every week, with hosts coming from a variety of countries and walks of life, allowing them to offer diverse perspectives. This is one of the longest-running podcasts, covering political opinions and daily breaking news stories from around the globe.

3. 60 Minutes

60 Minutes is the podcast answer to investigative reporting. This weekly show brings TV content to podcast distribution. The podcast includes a mix of breaking news and long-form deep-dive content. All new stories are delivered by a skilled and comprehensive journalist team.

4. Today, Explained

Today, Explained is designed to make it easier to understand the news. Offering well-researched explainers and interview pieces, this podcast focuses less on the news itself and more on helping listeners understand what's going on. The show includes conversations about current affairs that break down information for easy comprehension.

5. The Takeaway

The Takeaway is an American podcast giving listeners the chance to hear local news stories from a new perspective. This show releases new episodes every weekday, with the podcast providing insight into domestic news and American life, including controversial issues and conversations.

6. The Daily

The Daily is a daily news podcast offering insight into current events. Each new episode provides an overview of the latest news, with content giving audiences access to comprehensive and information podcast listening. 

Top entertainment podcasts

1. HollywoodLife

HollywoodLife is the answer to celebrity news, bringing exclusive interviews and breaking pop culture stories. This show is hosted by Bonnie Fuller with co-host Katrina Mitzeliotis and producer Gino Orlandi. Listen to this well-structured insight into all things Hollywood!

2. Entertainment Tonight

The Entertainment Tonight podcast, like its popular TV counterpart, is a great source of entertainment news. This podcast covers all things pop culture related, from breaking celebrity news to in-depth interviews with Hollywood's biggest stars. This podcast covers all kinds of entertainment, from film to music and everything in between.

3. Scheananigans with Scheana Shay

Scheananigans with Scheana Shay, hosted by the star of popular show Vanderpump Rules, is a party podcast set in the heart of Vegas. This show includes conversations with celebrity guests, stories from reality TV filming, and fun shenanigans from life in Las Vegas.

4. Brandi Glanville Unfiltered

Brandi Glanville Unfiltered, hosted by a well-known reality television star, covers all kinds of pop culture. Episodes include the latest reality TV gossip, as well as plenty of personal anecdotes, relationship dramas, and Hollywood mishaps. You can also expect to hear conversations about life in the media.

5. Celebrity Book Club with Chelsea Devantez

Celebrity Book Club with Chelsea Devantez offers regular recaps of badass memoirs written by celebrity women. Writer, comedian, and filmmaker Chelsea Devantez discusses her latest reads with a group of friends, dissecting the true story that goes beyond the tabloids.

Top science podcasts

1. Science Vs

Science Vs exists to debunk common myths and bring science knowledge to public conversations. This podcast has covered major news piece, demystifying coronavirus vaccines, the impacts of 5G networks, and even the role of plastic straws in driving ocean pollution.

2. Ologies with Alie Ward

Ologies with Alie Ward introduces a new topic in each episode. Each week, the podcast explains a new "ology" discipline in basic terms for easy listening. Previously, subjects have includes palaeontology, neurobiology, virology, and even the made-up wizard-science Potterology.

3. The Habitat

The Habitat offers a unique science approach, following the experiences of six volunteer scientists as they endure a year-long stint living in an imitation Mars habitat in Hawaii. This show is designed to help us predict what daily life might look like once humans migrate to Mars. Best of all, the podcast is set up like a story!

4. Houston, We Have a Podcast

Houston, We Have a Podcast is the official podcast of the NASA Johnson Space Center. The show offers expert interviews and plenty of interesting information, covering everything from astronaut training to space food manufacturing.

5. Science Friday

The Science Friday podcast is a weekly dose of science information, fact-checking major scientific stories and debunking common myths. This podcast covers major current events, including plenty of stories on the coronavirus pandemic.

6. Huberman Lab

If you're ready to learn all things neruoscience, then you'll want to check out Huberman Lab. Andrew Huberman is a neuroscientist at Stanford and shares insights into how your brain works, develops and affects your behaviour. He covers everything from sleeping habits, relationships, cognitive function and fitness.

Top educational podcasts

1. 99% Invisible

99% Invisible, hosted by radio producer Roman Mars, is deep dive into design and architecture. Each episode includes a new design and an explanation of the influences and histories that inspired its creation. Often, special guests stop by to talk about their design expertise.

2. Overheard at National Geographic

Overheard at National Geographic is hosted by the National Geographic channel, offering unique insights into some of the world's most fascinating places, people, and history events. From the great pyramids to sunken cities, ancient ruins, and even potential aliens, this podcast truly has everything.

3. Grammar Girl: Quick and Dirty Tips

Grammar Girl: Quick and Dirty Tips is a great source of all things writing and editing! This podcast, hosted by Mignon Fogarty, offers quick tips to improve grammar, spelling, and punctuation so that you can be better writer.

4. TED Radio Hour

TED Radio Hour is a collection of the world's most interesting people, with a range of celebrity guests stopping by to talk business, discovery, creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship. This podcasts includes inspiring stories from many influential and successful people.

5. The Secret History of the Future

The Secret History of the Future is one of the best educational podcasts, explaining how historical events related to modern-day news. The podcast then offers insight into how these events might play out in the future and what problems people should look out for.

Top food podcasts

1. Burnt Toast

Burnt Toast is a podcast for all food lovers, discussing the ways in which food controls our lives. This podcast offers fun dinner table stories that highlight the role of food and are perfect for commute listening.

2. The Sporkful

The Sporkful podcast is designed for eaters. It details the latest interesting dishes and restaurant finds, as well as offering great recipe tips from host Dan Pashman, best known as the author of Eat More Better and the star of You're Eating It Wrong.

3. Spilled Milk

Spilled Milk is a weekly podcast hosted by writers and comedians Molly Wizenburg and Matthew Amster-Burton. Each episode begins with a dining-related topic, which the hosts carry on for as long as they can.

4. Food 101

The Food 101 podcast offers an insight into cultural dishes and global culinary traditions. This podcast talks about different cuisines around the world, as well as featuring interviews and the latest in culinary news.

5. FoodCrush

FoodCush is an introduction to food facts and interesting ingredients. Hosts Lori Fredrich and Matt Mueller debate all things cooking and dining, offering some great culinary education along the way.

What are the top 10 podcasts on Spotify vs Apple Podcasts?

Wondering how to find the best podcasts on Spotify and Apple Podcasts? Here are our recommendations!

Best podcasts on Spotify

1. The Joe Rogan Experience

2. Huberman Lab

3. The Daily

4. On Purpose with Jay Shetty

5. Lex Fridman podcast

6. In the Studio

7. New Heights

8. This American Life

9. Radiolab

10. The Michelle Obama Podcast

Best podcasts on Apple

1. The Joe Rogan Experience

2. This Land

3. Planet Money

4. Crime Junkie

5. Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard

6. The Daily

7. Smartless

8. Pantsuit Politics

9. Stuff You Should Know

10. The Ezra Klein Show

Feeling inspired by the podcasting stars? You could create your own podcast! Visit Riverside.fm to find out how you can access studio-quality recording tools to make your show a success.