If you’ve been in podcasting for a while – whether you’re in the studio or just an avid listener – you know that the industry has changed a lot (and fast).
Here are some stats to put this into perspective:
- In 2010 only 45% of Americans knew what a podcast was, now 84% are in the know.
- In the same year, only 23% of people had listened to a podcast – now 67% have.
- In the last year alone, the number of people who listen to podcasts has gone up by nearly 10% – that’s 40 million people.
Listen numbers aside, podcasting has evolved from avid hobbyists into full-fledged influencers settling deals that go into the hundreds of millions of dollars. Think Joe Rogan's $250 million multiyear deal with Spotify and Alex Cooper’s $125 million deal with SiriusXM.
To celebrate International Podcast Day, we thought it would be fun to take a trip down memory lane and dive into the series' that have helped shape podcasting into what it is today. From the shows that started it all to the new shows that have taken audio by storm, we hope you’ll be reminded of some of your old favorites and find new shows to add to your list.
1. Serial
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Often known as the podcast that started it all, Serial is an investigative journalism podcast created by the team behind This American Life, hosted by Sarah Koenig. It tells a single nonfiction story throughout an entire season, unraveling complex cases with meticulous detail. The show has won numerous broadcasting awards, including the duPont-Columbia and the first-ever Peabody awarded to a podcast.
Since its groundbreaking first season in 2014, which examined the murder of Hae Min Lee, Serial has captivated millions of listeners with episode downloads reaching over 340 million – a podcast world record.
Known for its in-depth storytelling and thorough reporting, Serial is back for season 4, which is dedicated to the history of Guantánamo told by people who have lived through it.
2. Call Her Daddy
Hosted by Alex Cooper, Call Her Daddy has become the go-to podcast for millions of women since its launch in 2018. Known for its no-holds-barred conversations, Cooper tackles a wide range of topics—from romance and friendships to mental health and pop culture—in her interviews with celebrity guests.
Taking the podcast world by storm, Alex Cooper has often been voted the most influential woman in podcasting. She’s hosted a live watch party from Paris with NBC and sold out stadiums with the Unwell Tour – her own podcast network that includes chart-topping shows like Hot Mess and Pretty Lonesome.
The show’s candid approach has earned it a massive, loyal following, dubbed the "Daddy Gang," who tune in every Wednesday and Sunday for unfiltered discussions and laugh-out-loud moments.
3. This American Life
Hosted by Ira Glass, This American Life is a weekly podcast known for its masterful storytelling. Each episode centers on a theme, unfolding real stories that capture the essence of life in America—often blending humor and unexpected twists.
Since its debut in 1995, This American Life has become one of the most beloved and influential podcasts, even winning the first-ever Pulitzer Prize for a radio show or podcast in 2020. With a mix of personal narratives, investigative pieces, and field recordings, the show is known for bringing intimate, thought-provoking stories to life.
4. The Joe Rogan Experience
Hosted by comedian and UFC commentator Joe Rogan, The Joe Rogan Experience is one of the most popular and widely listened-to podcasts in the world. Since its debut in 2009, Rogan has hosted long-form conversations with a diverse range of guests, including actors, musicians, scientists, MMA fighters, and controversial figures like Elon Musk and Edward Snowden.
Known for its freewheeling discussions that tackle a variety of subjects, the show has amassed over 20,000 episodes and boasts three times the amount of Spotify followers than the second most popular show on the platform.
5. Hackable
Ever wonder if those dramatic hacker scenes in movies could actually happen in real life?
McAfee’s Hackable? is here to find out.
Hosted by Geoff Siskind, this podcast dives into the world of cybersecurity, exploring just how vulnerable we really are. From malicious cat photos to sketchy Wi-Fi networks and sneaky webcams, each episode features real hackers testing everyday tech for weaknesses. This show changed the way we think about branded podcasts and how companies can get creative with the medium.
6. Murder in HR
Murder in HR, presented by Gympass, isn’t your typical branded podcast – it’s a murder mystery.
Jemma is the new Employee Experience Manager at the tech startup Peace of Ship. On her first day, things take a deadly turn when Larry, the company’s travel manager, is electrocuted during an All-Hands meeting. What seems like a freak accident quickly unravels into something far more sinister—murder.
Although a more recent podcast, Murder in HR is the first true crime branded podcast we’ve seen. This proves that a show’s format and topic don’t always need to be your common thought leadership interview series that we typically see today.
7. Radiolab
The winner of the Shorty Award for Best Podcast, Radiolab is a boundary-pushing podcast that thrives on curiosity. With each episode, hosts Lulu Miller and Latif Nasser dive deep into profound questions, blending investigative journalism with captivating storytelling.
Listeners can expect a whirlwind journey that traverses science, legal history, and personal narratives from around the globe. Known for its innovative sound design, Radiolab artfully weaves information and music, creating an immersive listening experience that challenges perceptions and inspires inquiry.
8. American Scandal
American Scandal delves into the stories behind the most notorious scandals that have shaped America. Hosted by Lindsay Graham, this podcast examines how corruption, deceit, and ambition can lead to the downfall of heroes, celebrities, politicians, and moguls alike.
Each episode unpacks the events leading up to the scandal, the tipping point, and the fallout that ensued. From business and politics to sports and society, American Scandal reveals the complexities of human behavior and the moral dilemmas faced by those in power.
9. The Tim Ferriss Show
Tim Ferriss is a renowned self-experimenter and bestselling author of The 4-Hour Workweek. Often referred to as "the world's best human guinea pig," Ferriss brings a unique blend of curiosity and expertise to his interviews, exploring the habits and strategies of world-class performers across various fields, including investing, chess, and professional sports.
In each episode, Ferriss deconstructs the routines and mindsets of his guests, extracting actionable tools, tactics, and insights that listeners can apply in their own lives. Whether you’re looking to enhance your productivity, improve your health, or discover new approaches to success, this podcast offers a wealth of knowledge from some of the most accomplished individuals in the world.
10. Huberman Lab
Huberman Lab explores how our brain and its connections with the body influence our perceptions, behaviors, and overall health and has truly taken the podcast world by storm.
Hosted by Andrew Huberman, Ph.D., a neuroscientist and professor at Stanford School of Medicine, the podcast covers both established and emerging tools for understanding and optimizing our nervous system, making these conversations and teachings accessible to anyone – no science background needed.
Since its launch in 2021, the podcast has quickly risen in popularity, with each episode focusing on cutting-edge research and in-depth discussions on optimizing performance in high-stress environments, enhancing sleep, and mitigating stress.
11. Crime Junkie
Crime Junkie is a weekly podcast that delves into the most gripping true crime cases, hosted by Ashley Flowers and her best friend, Brit Prawat. Every Monday, they discuss a mix of underreported crimes, including solved and unsolved murders, missing persons cases, and more.
If you’re passionate about true crime and often find yourself wondering how to make a difference, Crime Junkie is the perfect fit for you. The hosts not only share gripping stories but also encourage listeners to take action and get involved.
12. The Daily
The Daily is the New York Times' essential news podcast, hosted by Michael Barbaro and Sabrina Tavernise. Each episode features in-depth interviews with the publication's journalists, focusing on the day’s most significant stories.
Tune in every weekday morning at 6 a.m. for a concise overview of the news that matters in 30 minutes or less. With its commitment to high-quality journalism, The Daily has garnered a dedicated following, delivering the biggest stories of our time with clarity and depth.
13. SmartLess
Hosts Will Arnett, Jason Bateman, and Sean Hayes engage in candid conversations with a surprise guest on each episode of SmartLess. This laidback talk show invites listeners into a world of unscripted conversations, where each episode introduces a new “mystery guest” who keeps the hosts—and the audience—guessing.
With a diverse lineup that includes everyone from Larry David to Natalie Portman and even three U.S. presidents, SmartLess delivers a unique experience every time.
14. My Favorite Murder
Join hosts Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark on My Favorite Murder, the groundbreaking true crime comedy podcast that has captivated audiences since its launch in January 2016 – a true crime series that got many podcast listeners into the genre.
Each week, the duo shares compelling true crime stories and hometown tales from friends and listeners. From infamous serial killers like the Night Stalker to mysterious cold cases, captivating cults, and incredible survivor stories, the show has become a beloved staple for true crime enthusiasts, blending dark storytelling with humor.
15. Sounds Like A Cult
Dive into the world of modern-day “cults” with Sounds Like a Cult, a thought-provoking podcast hosted by Amanda Montell, author of Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism. Each episode tackles the questions on everyone's minds—Is SoulCycle a cult? What about Elon Musk stans or the Royal Family? Maybe even Instagram?
Montell explores a different zeitgeisty group each week, analyzing their dynamics and the language they use while aiming to answer the pressing question: This group sounds like a cult, but is it really? And if so, how dangerous is it?
With a blend of humor and insight, Sounds Like a Cult invites listeners to reflect on the influences that shape our lives and the fine line between community and cult.
16. Darknet Diaries
Darknet Diaries uncovers the chilling true stories lurking in the shadows of the Internet. Host Jack Rhyside dives into topics like hacking, data breaches, and cybercrime to reveal the secrets and complexities of the digital underworld.
With nearly half a million active listeners, Rhysider’s investigative storytelling has captivated many by bringing to light the stories of those who operate on the fringes of the web—hacktivists, shadow governments, and the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats.
17. Hidden Brain
Join host Shankar Vedantam on Hidden Brain, where science and storytelling converge to uncover the unconscious patterns that drive human behavior, shape our choices, and influence our relationships.
With over 25 years of experience in reporting on human behavior and social science, Vedantam delves into the complexities of the mind, exploring the concept of the “hidden brain” — a metaphor for the influences that guide us without us knowing.
From mental shortcuts and memory quirks to the dynamics of social interaction, Hidden Brain reveals how much of our decision-making occurs beneath the surface. Each week, listeners are invited to explore fascinating topics that challenge conventional wisdom and deepen their understanding of themselves and the world around them.
18. S-Town
From the creators of Serial and This American Life, S-Town is a genre-defying podcast hosted by Brian Reed that delves into the life of a man named John B. McLemore, who despises his small Alabama town.
Frustrated and disillusioned, John reaches out to Reed, asking him to investigate a local wealthy family whose son allegedly bragged about getting away with murder. But when the investigation takes an unexpected turn and someone else ends up dead, the story transforms into something far more complex.
19. This Week in Tech
For tech enthusiasts, This Week in Tech (TWiT) is the ultimate podcast for staying informed on the hottest trends and breaking news. Hosted by tech legend Leo Laporte and featuring a rotating roundtable of insiders and experts, TWiT has been a must-listen since 2005.
Every Sunday, Laporte and his panel dive into the week’s biggest stories—from AI advancements and robotics to privacy concerns and the latest in consumer electronics. With lively discussions, sharp debates, and insights from some of the brightest minds in the industry, the show promises to keep listeners informed and entertained.
20. Strike Force Five
When Hollywood’s dual strikes shut down late-night television, five of its biggest stars—Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, Seth Meyers, and John Oliver—teamed up for a cause close to their hearts: supporting their striking writers and out-of-work staff.
Enter Strike Force Five, a biweekly podcast that brings these rival hosts together for candid, hilarious conversations and behind-the-scenes stories from the world of late night. Throughout the limited series, listeners are treated to a perfect blend of quick-witted banter, industry insights, and the joy of seeing five late-night giants come together in solidarity.
21. Love, Janessa
Behind every catfish, there’s the bait—and for thousands of victims, that bait is the face of adult entertainment star Janessa Brazil.
But who is Janessa? And how did her stolen images become the centerpiece of a global catfishing scam? In this gripping 7-part true crime series, journalist Hannah Ajala embarks on an international journey to uncover the real Janessa and unravel the sinister world of online catfishing.
Produced by Antica Productions and Telltale Industries for the BBC World Service and CBC Podcasts, Love, Janessa dives deep into the psychological and financial toll of these scams, revealing the masterminds behind them and the victims left in their wake. With suspense, intrigue, and powerful storytelling, this podcast sheds light on one of the internet’s darkest corners.
22. The Rest Is History
Hosted by acclaimed historians Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook, The Rest Is History is the world’s most popular history podcast, tackling everything from Julius Caesar’s daring crossing of the Rubicon to the 100 Years' War.
With their infectious passion and lively storytelling, Holland and Sandbrook take listeners on an engaging tour through the entirety of human history—or as much as they can fit into 50-minute episodes.
Whether they're recounting the fierce clashes between Carthage and Rome or exploring the birth of modernity, these two make every era feel fresh and exciting. As Dominic Sandbrook puts it, “People are bored with history told in a pious, judgmental way—they want it brought to life.”
23. The Shrink Next Door
What happens when you trust the wrong person with your deepest vulnerabilities? Veteran journalist Joe Nocera thought he knew his neighbor Ike, a charming therapist to Manhattan’s elite, who hosted lavish, star-studded parties at his eccentric Hamptons home.
But one summer, Ike disappeared, and Joe discovered a web of secrets that turned everything he thought he knew upside down.
From Wondery, the creators of Dirty John and Dr. Death, and Bloomberg, The Shrink Next Door is a gripping story of power, manipulation, and control. Written and hosted by Joe Nocera, this investigative podcast peels back the layers of a chilling psychological saga that will leave you questioning the limits of trust.
24. The Happiness Lab
Think you know what it takes to lead a happier life? Think again. More money, a better job, or that Instagram-worthy vacation might not be the keys to happiness after all.
Yale professor Dr. Laurie Santos has spent years studying the science of happiness, and she’s found that most of us are doing it wrong. In The Happiness Lab podcast, Dr. Santos shares eye-opening research and inspiring stories that challenge our assumptions about happiness and reveal what truly leads to a more fulfilling life.
Drawing from her wildly popular Yale course—said to be the most attended class in the university's 300-year history—Dr. Santos breaks down complex psychological concepts into actionable insights relevant to everyday life.
25. The Moth
Since 1997, The Moth has captivated audiences worldwide with thousands of true, unscripted stories told live on stage. Standing alone under a spotlight, each storyteller takes the audience on a raw, emotional journey, creating a shared experience that’s both exhilarating and vulnerable. These live events have drawn in standing-room-only crowds eager to hear authentic stories of triumph, heartache, humor, and everything in between.
Since 2008, The Moth podcast has brought some of the best stories from its stages directly to listeners around the world. With a vast archive of personal tales that span the human experience, The Moth is a testament to the power of storytelling.
Happy International Podcast Day!
There you have it – our list of influential podcasts that have helped shape the industry into what it is today.
From true crime shows and docuseries to celebrity interviews and one-man shows, we hope you found a new podcast to add to your list or were reminded of some of your old favorites that brought you to podcasts in the first place.
If you’re interested in learning more about podcast growth and audience insights, reach out to our team of podcast pros.
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