Recently discovered the world of true crime podcasts? Join the club! In this post, I’ll share with you some of my favorite podcast shows in the true crime genre.
So I’ve developed a true crime obsession within the past few years. And one night as I was lying watching a true crime documentary before bed, my sister expressed her concerns that I was “plotting to be a serial killer or something.” Of course I laughed at her comments, but it did make me stop and think for a second.
Why do some of us enjoy these horrific tales of murder and crime so much?
Some claim that people feel drawn to stories of true crime because it helps them feel more prepared for the real world threats they face as potential victims every day. Others say that listening to stories of grisly murders somehow comforts us because we know that we are safe from harm as we drive our daily commutes or fold our laundry with our earbuds in.
For me, I think I just really enjoy a good mystery, a good story, and a puzzle to figure out. Who doesn’t?!
Anyway, if you enjoy listening to tales of true crime as much as I do (and if you don’t, you should really consider adopting a new obsession), then take a look at this list of my absolute favorite true crime podcasts–unless of course you’ve already binged through all of them like I have. Enjoy!
1. Redhanded
I placed this podcast first on my list because, wow. It is simply amazing. Hosts Hannah and Suruthi are so hilarious, I’ve actually burst out laughing in several public spaces listening to their sharp-tongued commentary. The girls’ British accents (and that distinctly dry British humor) make the podcast even more enjoyable. Not only are their episodes entertaining, but they are also well-researched and intelligent. Hannah and Suruthi strike the perfect balance between great storytelling, respect towards the issues at the center of their podcasts, and humor. I totally wish they were my real-life friends (and not just my podcast besties).
Listen to Redhanded on Stitcher
2. Morbid
Similar in style to Redhanded is Morbid, a Massachusetts-based true crime podcast hosted by two sisters, Alaina and Ash. And like Redhanded, this podcast has induced many a solitary fit of laughter as I was driving my car. This hairstylist/autopsy technician dynamic-duo has made me laugh to the point of tears more than once. I find myself completely engrossed as the sisters deliver their tales of true crime, punctuated with those much-needed bits of comic relief. As good as the jokes are, they don’t take away from the respect paid to the victims of the crimes discussed. Above all, Ash and Alaina are always empathetic towards victims and their families, and unafraid to advocate for the causes they feel are most important. These ladies are seriously great. Definitely give them a listen.
3. Crime Junkie
Next up is a podcast called Crime Junkie. Crime Junkie was my first foray into the “new case every week” podcast genre. And from the very first episode, I was hooked. I listened to the entirety of the podcast in a matter of weeks. Host Ashley, along with her real-life best friend Brit, tells her stories in such a captivating way I am sometimes literally holding my breath waiting to hear what happens next. These girls are intensely respectful, intelligent, and diligent in their research of the cases they study. A must for crime junkies like you and me.
Listen to Crime Junkie on Stitcher
4. True Crime Garage
True Crime Garage…now these guys are some of the OGs of true crime podcasting. Nic and The Captain have been producing high-quality crime content from the garage since 2015. Every episode starts with a beer review as the guys crack open a cold one. Nic and The Captain tell a seriously good spooky story. I feel like these guys are my true crime big brothers. Each episode makes you feel as if you’re sitting in the garage right beside them, sipping on a craft brew from some place in Maine. If you haven’t listened to this classic crime podcast, add it to the queue.
Listen to True Crime Garage on Stitcher
5. True Crime All the Time
The hosts of this show, Mike and Gibby, are two endearing and hilarious dad-aged guys. Mike tells most of the story with comedic relief provided by jokes at the expense of “Gibs,” as Mike calls him. The research and storytelling are high-quality and the vibe is laid-back. The pair also has another podcast, True Crime All the Time Unsolved, which explores unsolved murders. I love curling up with a cup of coffee and listening to these guys go back and forth. A truly enjoyable listen.
Listen to True Crime All the Time on Stitcher
6. Generation Why
Next on the list is a show called Generation Why. Generation Why is a little lighter on the banter and a little heavier on the content, but for serious podcast-consumers like me, more content is never a bad thing. Hosts Aaron and Justin have such soothing voices, you will find yourself seriously entranced by the stories they tell. Give these guys a listen for deeply-researched, elegantly-told tales of true crime.
Listen to Generation Why on Stitcher
7. Up and Vanished
This podcast marked a turning point for me. Before discovering Up and Vanished, true crime podcasts were an interest of mine. Afterwards, they became a passion. My best friend introduced me to this podcast, telling me she knew I would absolutely love it. And love it I did. I was completely pulled into the world of Up and Vanished, narrated by Payne Lindsey. The first and most well-known season focuses on the unsolved disappearance of high school teacher Tara Grinstead in Ocilla, Georgia. The investigative style of the show keeps listeners on edge, as you wait for the next real-time break in the case. One of the best parts of this podcast: the decade-old cold case is actually solved at the end.
Listen to Up and Vanished on Stitcher
8. The Mysterious Mr. Epstein
I stumbled upon this fairly new podcast when I had run out of episodes of my regular shows. Let me tell you: you will fly through this fascinating tale about the life and crimes of the now-infamous Jeffrey Epstein. Power, money, scandal, corruption, abuse– you name it– this story has it all. The details discussed in this podcast are shocking, unbelievable, and important. The show touches on critical themes including the power of big money to protect the rich from the legal consequences of their actions.
Listen to The Mysterious Mr. Epstein on Stitcher
9. Fatal Voyage
This podcast discusses the mysterious deaths of famous individuals. I have listened to the first two seasons, featuring the deaths of Princess Diana and Natalie Wood. The third season focuses on the JFK assassination. This fascinating podcast series tackles these major cases head-on, expanding upon little known details and the many theories surrounding each death. I think I blew through two seasons in a week. The show was that addictive. I definitely recommend for an in-depth analysis of the famous cases you thought you knew.
Listen to Fatal Voyage on Stitcher
Well that’s it for my personal true crime podcast recommendations. I know there are a ton more excellent podcasts out there, and I’d love to hear about them. What are your favorite true crime podcasts? Comment below!
This is a great list. I can’t wait to listen to all of them!
Let me know what you think!
I love Morbid! Perfect to listen to while going on an evening stroll. Thanks for the recommendations!
Thanks for sharing these. I’m always looking for new true crime podcasts to listen to.
I love these suggestions! I will definitely be putting them on my list.
Love these!! I just saved a few of your recommendations on my Spotify!
This could gave been my list!! Beds listening to these for years. Also good…
Park Predators (by Audiochuck who does crime junkie)
Criminology (Mike Ferguson from True crime all the Time)
Root of all Evil – this was an AMAZING story of s dysfunctional family-to the highest order- wrapped up with the Black Dahlia.
This could have been my list!! Been listening to these for years. Also good…
Park Predators (by Audiochuck who does crime junkie)
Criminology (Mike Ferguson from True crime all the Time)
Root of all Evil – this was an AMAZING story of a dysfunctional family-to the highest order- wrapped up with the Black Dahlia.
Thanks for your comment Brittany! And thanks for the recommendations:) I’ll definitely have to check those ones out. I’m working on a new post with all my favorite true crime pods from this past year. Check in soon for more ideas!