However, those people have likely not listened to a history podcast.

This genre of podcasts is burgeoning with fascinating examples of how history can be fascinating.

Read on to learn about some of the best history podcasts.

What Is a History Podcast?

History makes some of the best podcasts around.

History podcasts focus on the exploration of history in different ways.

Some podcasts discuss a single topic throughout several episodes, while others delve into a different topic each week.

These podcasts may look at history with broad strokes or through a specific angle.  

What Does a History Podcaster Talk About?

A history podcaster can talk about different topics related to history.

History podcast topics include world history, American history, African history, food history, history of wars, the effect of history on the present, women in history, and music history.

What Is Included In a History Podcast?

Every history podcast is a little different, and each has a variety of features.

However, there are many common variables across all types of history podcasts.

Here are a few variables to look for in history podcasts.  

1. Context

The way many history podcasts gain success is by connecting historical events to the modern day or other historical events.

Some podcasts include this variable as their hook, while others happen to include context incidentally.

2. Research

Research is the foundation of any good history podcast must exist on.

Many podcasts will outline their exact research sources.

They may use books, reputable blogs, and documentaries to inform their podcast content.

3. Storytelling

Storytelling is what makes podcasts stand apart as a genre.

The previously mentioned research gets synthesized into a digestible story that will intrigue listeners.

The exact storytelling method can vary.

Some stories may be scripted, and others happen in a conversational style.

Whatever method gets used, the story is always a central component of good history podcasts.

4. Audio Quality

Audio quality is a vital component of any good podcast.

The best-researched and organized podcast will not mean much if the audio quality is bad.

Many listeners will turn a podcast off if it is not comfortable to listen to.

So, when creating a podcast, it is essential to consider how you will record, where you will record, and how you will edit the recording.

Types of History Podcasts

There are many podcast sub-genres within the history podcast genre.

Those subgenres may focus on different eras or locations relevant to history, have different demographics, or have different approaches.

Here are just a few of the popular history podcast sub-genres.

1. History Podcasts for Kids

Since some of the content of many history podcasts may be too complex for children, there are plenty of podcasts aimed at children.

These podcasts are often shorter and less complex.

However, they are still very informative, meaning your child will learn and have fun simultaneously.

2. History Podcasts That Aren’t Boring

History has an undeserved reputation as a boring topic to fall asleep to in class.

It could be argued that no history podcast is boring to the right listener.

However, some podcasts are approachable for those new to the genre.

3. History Podcasts for World and American History

History podcasts for the world and American history delve into different elements of history throughout America or the world.

Some of these podcasts are very broad in their approach, with episodes that dot the globe. Others focus on a specific topic.

Best History Podcasts: 15 Examples

With so many history-based podcasts to choose from, it can be difficult to determine which option is right for you.

Luckily, many history sub-genres may be perfect for you.

Here are 15 of the best history podcasts you can listen to now.

History Podcasts for Kids

History podcasts, in general, can get a little intense for young ears.

However, if you have a kid in your life who loves history, do not worry.

There are plenty of podcasts made especially for children.

Some focus on specific topics, while others approach history broadly.

1. But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids

But Why is a podcast from NPR that looks at many child-friendly topics, including history.

Parents can send their kids’ questions and then they are answered during the show.

While this podcast does not exclusively focus on history, enough episodes end up informed by history that it is worth checking out.

2. Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls

Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls connects to an affiliated book.

Each episode looks at women’s lives throughout history in many different fields.

Each episode is about 10 minutes long and narrated by a famous woman.

The podcast is now offered through an app.

You have access to a few stories for free.

For more stories and other related products, you’ll have to pay a fee.  

3. The Past and The Curious

The Past and The Curious was created by Mick Sullivan, a museum curator, writer, and musician, back in 2016.

The episodes are delivered with some humor but backed up by serious research.

Have a listen to The Past and The Curious if you want to play a history podcast that your kids can listen to without being dull for you.

Each episode focuses on a different story from history in a digestible and fascinating way.

4. Bedtime History: Inspirational Stories for Kids and Families

If you want to provide a fun bedtime for your children take a look at Bedtime History.

Each episode of Bedtime History is about five minutes long, providing the perfect time for a concise and fascinating story.

Topics range throughout history.

This podcast is ideal for ages four to seven.

5. History Storytime For Kids

History Storytime For Kids is unique because two kids host it.

As a result, children listeners feel more connected to the stories than an adult was the host.

This podcast is ideal for children between the ages of five and ten.

History Podcasts That Aren’t Boring

If you want to try a new podcast genre, but are worried you will get bored, there are certain pods you may want to start with.

Each of these podcasts approaches history from a different angle.

These podcasts are often successful due to their ability to fill a specific niche or connect

6. Stuff You Missed in History Class

This podcast is hosted by Tracy Wilson and Holly Frey.

Tracy’s love for history started in college where she find out how the past affects the present.

Holly is obsessed with fashion across the ages.

Stuff You Missed in History Class is a great podcast to start with if you are new to the history podcast genre.

The pod shares little-known stories from world history and debunk common historical misconceptions.

7. Noble Blood

Each episode of Noble Blood looks deeply at the stories of royals and nobles throughout history.

The podcast is well-scripted and organized.

Listeners love this podcast because of its quality of research and fun presentation.  

8. 1619

1619 consists of six episodes that explore slavery and its legacy.

It looks at the impact of slavery on many elements of modern society.

This podcast is popular thanks to the quality of the content and production.

9. You Must Remember This

You Must Remember This looks specifically at different parts of Hollywood history.

Each season focuses on a specific topic, including dead blondes, the Manson murders, and comparisons of the lives of Jean Seberg and Jane Fonda.

Listeners love this podcast thanks to its in-depth research and well-structured episodes.

10. LORE

The extremely popular and award-winning LORE podcast explores world history by looking at the origins behind the myths of different cultures around the world.

It focuses on dark tales throughout the ages.

While this podcast does focus somewhat on fiction, it also looks at the reality behind that fiction.

History Podcasts for World and American History

Many podcasts focus on American or World history.

These podcasts may talk about all that history in general or they may approach one element of the history.

11. Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History

Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History consists of deep dives into history.

The episodes may be comprehensive, but they are by no means boring.

As you listen you will find yourself engrossed in the content.

12. Uncivil

Uncivil looks into lesser-known stories from the Civil War about corruption, undercover operations, resistance, and much more.

It explores myths surrounding the war and how the period affected elements of the country today.

13. 9/12

9/12 is a limited podcast series that looks into the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on 9.11.2001.

Topics include islamophobia, cultural changes, conspiracy theories, and communication about the topic.

How to live with the changes caused by the 9/11 incident?

14. American History Tellers

American History Tellers focuses on the development of the culture of the United States.

Each episode looks at how different parts of US history led to how Americans behave today. One topic can stretch over several episodes.

15. The Fantastic History of Food

The Fantastic History of Food explores elements of history through food.

It covers history from all over the world.

This podcast is a great choice for history newbies and enthusiasts alike.

Similar Podcasts Types to Check Out

While there are plenty of history podcasts to listen to, you may be in the mood to listen to something similar to history.

These adjacent podcasts have some overlap with history podcasts in terms of content or type of interest.

• Art History Podcasts: These types of podcasts explore art history from different perspectives. Art history podcasts are a great type to consider if you love general history podcasts because both require the same storytelling ability.
• Travel Podcasts: Travel podcasts discuss travel experiences and tips. If you like history podcasts you may also enjoy this type since they offer you the opportunity to hear a modern update on the places you hear about in history pods.
• Military Podcasts: Military podcasts can include discussions of historical or contemporary military activity. You may enjoy this type of podcast if you enjoy hearing about the war-like aspects of history.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is a good idea to learn more about history podcasts as you consider adding them to your podcast rotation.

Here are some common history channel podcasts that frequently asked questions.

Wrapping Up

Learning about history is more than just understanding the past.

It is about understanding how the past affects the present and future.

Wherever you listen to podcasts, trying a history-focused podcast is a great way to learn about history in a creative and fun way.

Whether you love history or it intimidates you, try listening to a podcast and learning something new today.

This interest applies to heinous acts as well, as tales of the dark side of humanity have enthralled us throughout history.

The most recent iteration of our engagement with these curiosities is true crime podcasts.

Read on to learn more about this podcast genre.

What Is a True Crime Podcast?

True crime podcasts are audio recordings that discuss different elements of true crime.

The exact content and composition of true crime podcasts can vary. Some cover different topics in each episode, while others discuss one topic throughout several episodes.  

These podcasts can come out weekly, multiple times a week, or for a limited run.

Once you familiarize yourself with how to listen to a podcast, this form of media becomes easily accessible at your convenience.

What Does a True Crime Podcaster Talk About?

A true crime podcaster is someone who makes a podcast.

Each podcast can have a single podcaster or multiple.

In this genre, podcasters discuss different elements of true crime.

Some talk about murder or other crimes, such as fraud, robbery, extortion, or conspiracy.

Each podcast is different, fulfilling unique niches and looking at aspects of crime.

What Is Included In a True Crime Podcast?

Every true crime podcast is a little bit different. But they also share some common elements.

• Background and Research: Solid research and background description are key elements of true crime podcasts. They give the audience insight into the victim’s personal info, the crime’s location, and more. Each podcast varies on the extent of information provided.
• Storytelling: Storytelling makes up the majority of the podcast. Some podcasters opt for a casual and conversational storytelling style. Others prefer a more structured scripted style.
• Honoring of victims: The best podcasts in this genre make an effort to honor the victims. Some do this by minimizing grisly details, while others make sure their focus is on knowing the victim rather than glorifying the perpetrator. Moreover, some podcasts also donate to victim help funds or work to solve crimes.
• Good audio quality: You can listen to podcasts virtually anywhere nowadays. So with a worldwide audience in mind, podcasters need to put a bit of thought into the audio quality of the podcast. Microphone type, recording set-up, and sound mixing can determine sound quality.

Types of True Crime Podcasts

The true crime field is a niche within the podcasting world, containing several sub-niches.

Some sub-niches are defined by the pod’s structure, while others vary based on content.

True crime podcasts can be anything from a long-term weekly podcast that explores different murders each week to a short-term 10-episode series focused on one non-deadly scam.  

True Crime Podcasts for Beginners

For those inexperienced with the true crime genre, it can be difficult to know where to start.

There is not necessarily a structured true crime genre for beginners.

Some podcasts are potentially a better choice for beginners, though.

Those pods provide the listener with an easy-to-follow and engaging introduction to many elements of true crime.

They may also be less graphic.

True Crime Podcasts About Murder

While true crime podcasts may often revolve around murder, the genre can contain information on several different crimes.

If you want podcasts that focus primarily on murder, you should check this genre.

True Crime Podcasts About One Case

As mentioned, one important type of true crime podcast is a series that focuses on a single case throughout several episodes.

Typically, these podcasts dive deep into a case, discussing different elements in each episode.

Components of these episodes include interviews, scripts, history, and more.

Best True Crime Podcasts: 15 Examples

Every listener looks for different things during their podcast experience.

So, one person’s favorite true crime podcast may vary from someone else’s.

Luckily, there are several fantastic pods to check out that suit all tastes.

Here are 15 examples of great true crime podcasts.

True Crime Podcasts for Beginners

If you are new to the true crime genre, you may want to jump in and listen to everything.

While this is a viable approach, there are also certain types of podcasts you may want to start with.

These podcasts still discuss intense topics, such as murder.

However, they often have a comedic bent or are organized in a way that provides easy listening.

1. Wine and Crime

Wine and Crime is a successful podcast by three childhood friends.

Each weekly episode has a wine pairing and focuses on a specific theme, such as family secrets, engineering, or floral fatalities.

While murder is a common topic, this pod also discusses other types of crime.

This podcast is successful after cultivating a loyal fanbase with around 130,000 listeners per episode.

2. Crime Junkies

Crime Junkies is a popular weekly podcast that discusses several types of crime, including murder, conspiracy, and cold cases.

Besides this podcast, the creators have a podcast network with several other podcasts.

The podcast network has around 7 million weekly listeners.  

3. You Must Remember Manson

You Must Remember Manson is a season from the You Must Remember This Podcast, which talks about different elements of old Hollywood.

In this series, the host discusses the murders committed by Charles Manson’s cult.

This podcast is successful thanks to its level of research and in-depth analysis.

4. The Dream

The Dream focuses on exploring potential crimes committed by multilevel marketing companies (MLM).

It includes interviews with victims of MLMs and deep dives into the history of such organizations.

This podcast is partially successful due to the increasing interest in MLMs in the media.  

5. Scam Goddess

Scam Goddess is a podcast that looks at scams of all kinds with a comedic bent.

This podcast is ideal if you want a light foray into the true crime that is less dark than other podcasts.

The pod consists of the host’s conversation with a guest about scams in history and recent scams.

True Crime Podcasts About Murder

If you primarily want podcasts about murder rather than a general true crime, there are plenty of options.

Some of these podcasts step into other topics, but murder remains their focus.

6. My Favorite Murder

My Favorite Murder is one of the most popular true crime podcasts around.

Each episode consists of the two hosts discussing a few cases. Fans love the casual energy of the podcast and the community the hosts built.

7. Small Town Murder

Small Town Murder consists of two hosts discussing a different murder in a small town each week.

Each episode starts with a rundown of the statistics surrounding a small town and continues with a murder that happened in that small town.

8. The Murder Diaries

The Murder Diaries is a podcast that tells stories of true crime while trying to provide focus on victims.

Listeners love this podcast for its ability to bring stories to light conversationally.

9. And That’s Why We Drink

And That’s Why We Drink discusses several forms of crime but focuses primarily on murder.

This podcast is another option that revolves around a few co-hosts talking about true crime.

10. The Last Podcast on the Left

The Last Podcast on the Left is a robust podcast that goes beyond talking only about murder.

It covers various other topics ranging from history to cryptids.

It has a strong fanbase and is the flagship of a large podcast network.

True Crime Podcasts About One Case

While some podcasts look at a different case each week, other podcasts explore a single case throughout several episodes.

Some of these podcasts focus on a different single case every season.

11. Serial

In many ways, Serial is the spark that lit the true-crime podcast craze.

The first podcast focused on the murder of Hae Min Lee and the conviction of Adnan Syed.  

12. Dr. Death

Dr. Death is a podcast series that focuses on the story of Christopher Duntsch.

He was a surgeon convicted of malpractice after the death or injury of over 30 patients.

13. Missing & Murdered: Finding Cleo

Missing & Murdered: Finding Cleo is a podcast that delves into the disappearance and murder of Cleo, a young Cree girl.

The podcast is from CBC/ Radio-Canada.  

14. The Teacher’s Pet

The Teacher’s Pet is an Australian Podcast that delves into the disappearance of Lynette Dawson.

At the tail end of the first season, new evidence emerged that suggested Lyn’s husband was the murderer.

A follow-up podcast, The Teacher’s Trial, followed the husband’s trial and eventual guilty conviction.

15. Murdaugh Murders

Murdaugh Murders looks at a century-long saga of murder, fraud, and other crimes that all relate to the Murdaugh family.

Similar Podcasts Types To Check Out

True crime podcasts have a lot of overlap with other podcast sub-genres.

Here are some other types of podcasts you may enjoy if you like true crime podcasts.

• Crime Podcasts: Crime podcasts are similar to true crime podcasts, except the crimes discussed may not necessarily be true. Despite the fictional nature of this genre, it may appeal to true crime enthusiasts because of common themes.
• Scary Podcasts: Scary podcasts usually fall into the horror genre. They either follow a conversational or scripted storytelling genre. It makes sense that true crime lovers may also like scary podcasts if they look to both genres for some fright.
• Mystery Podcasts: Mystery podcasts and true crime podcasts may have some overlap. However, mystery podcasts may not have a crime element. Mystery podcasts are a great choice if you enjoy the mystery element of true crime but want a less scary option.

Frequently Asked Questions

The following are some of the most frequently asked questions by those interested in true crime podcasts.

Wrapping Up

True crime continues to be one of the most popular podcast genres in the entertainment space.

No matter your particular taste, there are plenty of types of true crime podcasts you can choose from.

Many listeners enjoy this genre for its ability to expose different dimensions of the human experience.

For some, the best type to listen to is scary podcasts.

I love adding the thrill of spooky content into my day, and there are so many podcasts to hear.

Whether you’re looking for true scary podcasts, scary horror podcasts, or generally scary and spooky podcasts, here’s a list of some of the best out there.

What Is a Scary Podcast?

A scary podcast is one of the many different types of podcasts, almost like a genre.

Generally, scary podcasts have the goal of shocking or thrilling the listener.

This reaction comes by discussing darker themes, telling horror stories, or covering eerie incidents.

Scary podcasts can be among the best podcasts because they often engage the listener with chilling tales.

What Does a Scary Podcaster Talk About?

Scary podcasters are the people who run the show, and they can choose to talk about a variety of topics.

These topics create subgenres that can help you know what to expect.

First, there are true scary podcasts.

Podcasters in this field discuss the details of real stories or interview people who have had frightening experiences.

Next, scary horror podcasts might rely more on fiction.

You’ll hear chilling tales and myths, like sitting around a campfire.

Finally, generally scary and spooky podcasters cover any content that will get your heart beating. It can range from psychologically twisted content to discussing gory detail.

Ultimately, what a podcaster talks about is personal choice and preference.

What Is Included On a Scary Podcast?

Scary podcasts can all be quite different, but you can usually expect some of the same elements.

While these elements can be standard, not every podcast has all of them.

• Narrator: A scary podcast can feature one main narrator, multiple, or change every episode. The narrator is responsible for telling the story, whether it’s fictional or not. Occasionally narrators may be professional voice actors.
• Disturbing Themes: A scary podcast usually must include some unsettling content to be freaky. The content can range from ghost encounters to serial killers. Some podcasts post comprehensive content warnings for each episode.
• Sound Effects: Not all scary podcasts include sound effects, but some feature theatrical sounds to add ambiance. It can range from monster noises to suspenseful music under narration.
• Transcriptions: Transcriptions can be handy if you enjoy reading along to your scary podcast. Again, not every podcast may have a transcription.

Types of Scary Podcasts

As mentioned, there are also different types of scary podcasts.

These types can help you sort out content you enjoy from stories that might be too graphic for you or even not gory enough.

You can find the varying types and listen to podcasts on different platforms to determine the best option for you.

• True Scary Podcasts: True podcasts are what they sound like, focusing on facts. You might hear true crime stories or people’s paranormal encounters. These podcasters put time into researching topics or interviewing engaging individuals.
• Scary Horror Podcasts: Scary horror podcasts usually dip into the world of fiction. The new episodes feature either famous or indie horror stories.
• Scary and Spooky Podcasts: Scary and spooky podcasts are a general category that covers any other podcast with unsettling content.

Best Scary Podcasts: 15 Examples

Now, let’s finally discuss some of the best scary podcasts.

Below is a comprehensive list with options for each type to help you find your ideal podcast.

You can find these shows on many platforms, no matter your preference of how to listen to a podcast.

How Many Scary Podcasts Are There?

These 15 podcasts are a small selection of all the scary podcasts available.

While it’s hard to say the exact number of scary podcasts, there are at least more than 130.

There are likely many more, as individuals can readily produce small shows.

This figure is bound to grow as true crime and horror gain popularity with American audiences.

Best True Scary Podcasts

First, let’s take a look at some of the best true scary podcasts.

These shows will thrill you with true horrors.

Of all the scary podcasts, these are some of the most popular.

If you do choose to listen, prepare for potentially graphic descriptions.

True Scary Story

True Scary Story is a podcast that collects private recitals of creepy encounters.

Real people record their memories of unexplained phenomena, focusing on the paranormal.

This format is unique, letting you hear directly from the source.

And That’s Why We Drink

If you’re interested in true crime and the paranormal, And That’s Why We Drink might be a perfect choice.

The two co-hosts take turns during the episode to tell one story of each category.

The dynamic duo manages to keep the mood lighthearted.

Even though the factual stories have horrific elements, the banter is always comedic.

Let’s Not Meet: A True Horror Podcast

The paranormal isn’t the only source of frightening stories.

The Let’s Not Meet podcast understands this, where the host narrates submissions from listeners.

Each episode features a collection of short stories that cover real-life horrors like encounters with stalking or cults.

Disturbed: True Horror Stories

Next, the Disturbed podcast is another option that combines both true crime and the paranormal.

Each episode covers a variety of stories from a mix of historical and personal sources.

You might hear about kidnappings or ghosts, but all are authentic experiences.

Jim Harold’s Campfire

Finally, a long-running scary podcast is Jim Harold’s Campfire.

This show aims to give the listener that nostalgic feeling of hearing scary stories in the dark by the light of a fire.

Each episode has a theme, and the host narrates multiple short stories.

Similar to others, you might hear a range of topics from true crime, to paranormal, to UFO encounters.

Best Scary Horror Podcasts

Check out these scary horror podcasts if true stories are a bit too freaky or just not your style.

Horror podcasts can be chilling experiences and offer extensive collections of fiction readings you might not find elsewhere.

The NoSleep Podcast

First, The NoSleep Podcast is a collection of original horror short stories.

Each episode has an extensive cast of voice actors, making it like the original radio dramas.

The eerie tales also have sound effects and mood music.

These techniques all create a tense atmosphere that might leave you on the edge of your seat.

Alice Isn’t Dead

Alice Isn’t Dead is a podcast that follows one long story, updating every episode.

The podcast is similar to an audiobook, as there is a novel you can read along.

This chilling story focuses on a truck driver’s search for her lost wife and finding horrors along the way.

PseudoPod

Next is another series that collects original horror stories.

Authors craft stories that you can read with the PseudoPod podcast.

These stories often cover blunt topics, and only mature audiences should listen.

You might encounter themes like death, sexual violence, and more.

The Wrong Station

The Wrong Station is a Canadian production that hopes to bring back the feeling of tuning into old radio.

Each episode features a sole narrator telling a fictional story of an odd experience.

Its simplistic approach is one of the drawing features.

Listening to this podcast might feel like you’re having a personal conversation, and it can bring you into the narrative.

The Other Stories

Finally, The Other Stories is another scary podcast collection of stories.

The primary narration has some special effects accompanying it.

It originally began as a simple goal of four stories a month from four friends but has grown to include various authors and narrators.

Best Scary and Spooky Podcasts

Last but not least are general scary and spooky podcasts.

These scary podcasts can be just as disturbing as the others.

Unlike horror and true scary podcasts, it’s hard to define this category in generalities.

Each podcast can be slightly different, but all focus on unsettling the listener.

Lore

Lore is a different type of scary podcast that focuses on a historical perspective.

They choose to show how spooky legends and folklore can be.

Each episode centers around real concepts that can be chilling to discover.

Welcome to Night Vale

One popular scary podcast, Welcome to Night Vale, is an intriguing dive into a fictional world.

This podcast isn’t frightening horrifically but spooky in an unsettling manner.

Each episode sounds like a news radio show for a fictitious neighborhood.

The mundane subject matter can be spooky to listen to as the unexpected occurs in Night Vale.

The Last Podcast on the Left

The Last Podcast on the Left is a spooky and scary podcast that covers everything.

The show’s hosts cover topics like UFO encounters, cryptids, ghosts, and serial killers.

It’s a catch-all podcast for anyone interested in dark stories.

The hosts also try to keep their perspective level, as one regularly adds skepticism to the mix.

Ghosts in The Burbs

This spooky podcast is a unique collection of true ghost stories.

Ghosts in The Burbs is a personal project that features interviews of Massachusetts residents.

These locals came together to tell their ghost stories, which can create a very intimate feeling when listening.

Some episodes have the original interview recording, while others have a retelling to protect privacy.

The Magnus Archives

Finally, The Magnus Archives is a podcast that follows a fictional story over multiple episodes.

The episodes play as if a paranormal researcher is exploring the archives of an old institution.

Throughout the series, the mystery of the archives will unfold. It’s an unsettling story with a dedicated voice-acting cast.

Similar Podcasts Types to Check Out

Scary podcasts aren’t the only ones you can listen to if you want darker content.

There are plenty of other types that might catch your interest.

• True Crime Podcasts: True crime podcasts tell the real stories of horrific crimes, like serial killers or kidnappings. These tales can be frightening, and often true scary podcasts can mix into the true crime genre.
• Mystery Podcasts: Mystery podcasts explore unsolved crime cases or mysterious encounters with unexplainable entities like cryptids or UFOs. These podcasts can be ideal if you enjoy weirder subjects but might not want to be scared by the unknown.
• Murder Podcasts: Murder podcasts focus solely on revealing details about murders and murderers. The subject is dark and similar to the scary podcast realm with graphic and chilling facts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Listening to scary podcasts can be a worthwhile experience, but getting into the genre can seem confusing.

Here are a few frequently asked questions to help you decide.

Wrapping Up

Listening to scary podcasts can be a thrilling experience.

There are so many different chilling podcasts out there that you’re almost guaranteed to find one you enjoy.

So next time you’re looking for a true scary story, a horror tale, or a generally spooky experience, consider listening to one of these podcasts.

Since then, comedy podcasts have grown into some of the largest on the planet.

So, let’s learn more about the 15 best comedy podcasts available so you can enjoy the laughs for hours!

What is a Comedy Podcast?

Comedy podcasts are like any other podcast—they’re a recording of one or more people talking about things that interest them.

But a comedy podcast primarily focuses on topics or elements that are funny to the host or their guests.

What Does a Comedy Podcaster Talk About?

Just like comedy, comedy podcasts have a wide range of topics. Stand-up comics with podcasts often talk about their shows or new gags.

Other podcasters recount comical stories from their lives.

In other cases, comedy podcasts will mix elements of current events with their comedy, similar to John Stewart or Stephen Colbert.

What is Included In a Comedy Podcast?

Comedy podcasts can have a wide array of topics.

They crack jokes, tell stories, rib one another, and much more.

But because each podcaster is unique, you’ll need to find one that fits your style.

Here are some of the most common topics comedy podcasters bring up on their program.

• Comedic Stories: Whether from childhood or just last week, comedy podcasts will delight listeners with stories sure to make even the crankiest people laugh.
• Practicing Jokes: Stand-up comics need to practice their material somewhere, so why not with an audience who already appreciates their style?
• Joking with Guests: Comedians love spending time with people who share their humor, so you’ll often see the host riffing with a guest to see who can produce the biggest laugh.
• Current Events: Comedians often see the absurdity in everyday events, which is why they’re the perfect people to help point out the comical nature of current events.
• TV Shows: Some of the most popular comedy podcasts were born from old TV shows or movies. These podcasters often recount the funniest moments on the show, both off and on air.

Types of Comedy Podcasts

There are plenty of categories of comedy podcasts.

But for this guide, we’ve broken down these popular types of podcasts into three large categories.

• Comedy Podcasts for Stand-Up Comedy: Comedy podcasts for stand-up usually have a stand-up comedian as their host. They recount stories, practice jokes, and invite their friends onto their program.
• Comedy Podcasts for Road Trips: When you’re on a long road trip, the best thing you can listen to is something that keeps you awake. Comedy podcasts for road trips are usually about a fascinating topic, one that the host can riff on and make jokes about.
• Comedy Podcasts for Moms and Dads: If you’re looking for a more family-friendly comedy podcast, podcasts for moms and dads are for you. These podcasts delve into more family-friendly topics without being boring.

Best Comedy Podcasts: 15 Examples

Now we’ve gotten to the good part!

Here, you can find 15 of the best podcasts currently available.

Comedy Podcasts for Stand-Up Comedy

Here are the five best stand-up comedy podcasts.

If you like comedians recounting their best jokes or just telling jokes from their daily life, these are the podcasts for you!

1. Good For You

Hosted by comedian Whitney Cummins, Good For You is an interview podcast with other stand-up comedians and friends.

They mostly talk about comedy and other aspects of their lives as performers.

Aside from that, they also delve into topics like love, unique experiences, and how their life experiences shaped them into the comedian they are today.  

2. Kill Tony

Kill Tony is a live podcast hosted by Tony Hinchcliffe every week in Austin, Texas.

He invites other comedians as guests while they judge aspiring comedians who test their skills on stage.

Tony is an insult comic with a dark sense of humor, so be ready to laugh and cringe at the same time!

3. 2 Bears, 1 Cave

2 Bears, 1 Cave is the culmination of years of friendship between Tom Segura and Bert Kreischer, two of the biggest names in stand-up comedy.

Whether they’re discussing fatherhood, comedy, or personal exploits, these guys will have your sides hurting in no time.

4. Legion of Skanks Podcast

Also known as the “most offensive podcast on earth,” Legions of Skanks is a project created by Big Jay Oakerson, Luis J. Gomez, and Dave Smith.

These three real-life best friends use this podcast to talk about anything—and we mean anything!

5. TigerBelly

Hosted by Bobby Lee and his much more rational ex-wife Khalyla, TigerBelly is a wild, weekly podcast.

These two announced their divorce on an episode and have continued making episodes.

Comedy Podcasts for Road Trips

On a road trip, you need something that’ll keep you awake and focused on the road.

Sometimes the best way to stay awake is to listen to something interesting.

And why not spice that up with some laughs?

Here are some of the most absorbing comedy podcasts sure to keep you awake on those long drives.

6. WTF with Marc Marron

WTF with Marc Marron is a bi-weekly podcast hosted by Marron that delves into a wide array of topics ranging from comedy to politics.

He once interviewed President Obama for the show!

In general, Marron brings on guests to discuss what makes them special—be it musical talent, comedic gifts, or whatever else makes them unique!

7. How Did This Get Made?

Have you ever wondered how those terrible films get made?

Whether you’re interested in what made a film flop or how such awful writing even came about, How Did This Get Made is the podcast for you!

Hosts Paul Scheer, June Diane Raphael, and Jason Mantzoukas interject with biting criticisms and over-the-top commentary that will have you laughing in no time!

8. Comedy! Bang! Bang!

Named after the TV show with the same name, “Comedy! Bang! Bang!” follows host Scott Aukerman as he interviews guests about all things comedy.

Some of the funniest moments of the show are when he convinces guests to do character work with him.

Scott also allows anyone in the studio to join in, so these podcasts can become slightly wild, But that’s perfect for a road trip comedy podcast!

9. The Bugle

Originally started by John Oliver and his friend Andy Zaltzman, the Bugle is a comedy podcast that focuses on the absurdity of current events.

Only Andy hosts the show now, but it hasn’t lost any of its laughs!

He often invites other comedians to help break down the news with him, resulting in a compelling show with loads of laughs!

10. Smartless

Hosted by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett, Smartless is a podcast about the mundane.

They may interview celebrities and other guests, but the core of the show is about the natural comedic conversion between the three hosts.

It’s the perfect road trip podcast because it’ll make time fly!

Comedy Podcasts for Moms and Dads

Everyone needs a podcast or two to listen to when they’re going about their business!

Maybe you need something to occupy you while you clean or while you wait for your kid’s soccer practice to end.

Here are the best comedy podcasts for anyone with some extra time to burn.

11. The Clean Comedy Podcast

Are you interested in comedy? Or are you interested in seeing how good comedy develops?

If that sounds like you, The Clean Comedy Podcast by James Creviston is a perfect choice!

12. That Story Show

That Story Show is a podcast hosted by James Kennison & John Steinklauber where they tell stories from their life.

And don’t worry if you have the kids nearby—all of the stories are clean enough that even young children can listen.

13. I Don’t Know About That

Sometimes listening to a clueless guy spout his opinion is funny, and that’s exactly what Jim Jeffries aimed for with his podcast I Don’t Know About That.

Jim is a successful comedian from Australia who points out the absurdities of American life with an Aussie twist.

14. Two Funny Mamas

Sometimes moms need a break—and by sometimes, we mean a lot!

That’s why Sherri Shepherd and Kym Whitley made their comedy podcast, Two Funny Mamas.

They wanted to make a comedy podcast that appealed to all types of moms.

And not only that, they wanted to create a podcast that will have you laughing in no time.

15. The Mom Hour

If you need some practical parenting advice, The Mom Hour is a great place for moms and dads alike.

The two hosts, Meagan and Sarah, both have children ranging from elementary school age up to adulthood.

They offer parenting advice, from infancy to the teenage years, and discuss ways to enjoy the parenting journey.

Similar Podcasts Types to Check Out

Aside from those categories of podcasts, there are also numerous other categories for podcasts, including:

• Funny Podcasts: Funny podcasts are a large category that includes things like comedy, cringe, and shocking elements. Think of anything from Howard Stern to your favorite comedians.
• Podcasts for Women: Podcasts for women often talk about women’s issues. Alternatively, podcasts for women could also be podcasts hosted by women.
• Podcasts for Road Trips: Road trips can be boring, especially if you don’t have something exciting to listen to. Road trip podcasts are the perfect companion for any road trip because they’ll help you stay focused on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the most commonly asked questions about comedy podcasts.

Wrapping Up

So, did you find any new comedy podcasts you enjoy?

There are enough podcasts on this list to listen to a new one every day for half a month.

And if you’re a newbie to podcasts, you can learn how to listen to a podcast while you’re at it.

You’re sure to find a comedy podcast that’ll make you laugh!