For those who love delving into the darker side of human nature, true crime podcasts offer a thrilling and often chilling experience. Here’s a list of 20 true crime podcasts that are so captivating, you might find yourself losing sleep as you binge-listen to just one more episode.
1. Serial (Season 1)
The podcast that sparked the true crime podcast revolution. Sarah Koenig’s investigation into the murder of Hae Min Lee is a masterclass in storytelling.
Listen to Serial
2. Up and Vanished
Payne Lindsey’s investigation into the disappearance of Tara Grinstead had real-world impact, leading to arrests in the cold case.
Listen to Up and Vanished
3. My Favorite Murder
Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark blend humor with horrific true crime stories, creating a unique and addictive listening experience.
Listen to My Favorite Murder
4. In the Dark
Both seasons of this podcast are stellar, with season 2’s investigation into the Curtis Flowers case leading to a Supreme Court decision.
Listen to In the Dark
5. Someone Knows Something
David Ridgen dives deep into cold cases, often uncovering new evidence and leads.
Listen to Someone Knows Something
6. The Teacher’s Pet
This Australian podcast investigates the disappearance of Lynette Dawson, leading to a real-life arrest decades after the crime.
Listen to The Teacher’s Pet
7. Cold
A deep dive into the Susan Powell case, with exclusive audio and unexpected twists.
Listen to Cold
8. Bear Brook
This podcast unravels the mystery of four unidentified bodies found in barrels in New Hampshire.
Listen to Bear Brook
9. To Live and Die in LA
Neil Strauss investigates the disappearance of aspiring actress Adea Shabani in this gripping series.
Listen to To Live and Die in LA
10. The Murder Squad
Retired cold case investigator Paul Holes and investigative journalist Billy Jensen attempt to solve cold cases with the help of listeners.
Listen to The Murder Squad
11. Casefile
This Australian podcast covers cases from around the world with a focus on meticulous research and atmospheric storytelling.
Listen to Casefile
12. Crime Junkie
Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat cover both well-known and obscure cases in this wildly popular podcast.
Listen to Crime Junkie
13. Dirty John
This podcast tells the twisted tale of John Meehan, a conman and sociopath who terrorized his wife and her family.
Listen to Dirty John
14. Dr. Death
The horrifying true story of Dr. Christopher Duntsch, a neurosurgeon who left a trail of maimed and dead patients.
Listen to Dr. Death
15. The Clearing
April Balascio suspected her father was a murderer. This podcast follows her journey to uncover the truth.
Listen to The Clearing
16. Accused
Each season investigates a different case, with a focus on possible wrongful convictions.
Listen to Accused
17. Uncover
This CBC podcast series tackles a different case each season, from the NXIVM cult to the Toronto Village murders.
Listen to Uncover
18. Monster: DC Sniper
A deep dive into the 2002 Washington D.C. sniper attacks, with new insights and interviews.
Listen to Monster: DC Sniper
19. The Thing About Pam
Keith Morrison narrates this bizarre and twisting tale of murder in small-town Missouri.
Listen to The Thing About Pam
20. Your Own Backyard
Chris Lambert’s investigation into the disappearance of Kristin Smart has reignited interest in the case and led to significant developments.
Listen to Your Own Backyard
