Fastest-growing podcasts
The podcasting industry continues to expand rapidly, with a diverse range of shows gaining popularity. Some of the fastest-growing podcasts cover topics like true crime, news, and entertainment, attracting millions of listeners worldwide.
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These fast-growing podcasts tap into a variety of genres and appeal to different interests. True crime podcasts engage listeners with gripping narratives, often drawing attention through storytelling and investigative journalism. News-based podcasts keep audiences informed with daily updates and expert analysis on current events, while entertainment-focused shows offer humor, celebrity interviews, and behind-the-scenes insights. The rise of these podcasts can be attributed to their ability to connect with audiences on a personal level, offering content that resonates with listeners' daily lives or passions. With their accessible format and consistent release schedules, these podcasts have built strong, dedicated audiences, helping them gain substantial growth and prominence in the competitive podcasting space. Their success is a reflection of the increasing demand for audio content and the evolving media landscape.
Crime JunkieView AllCrime Junkie - Real-life crime stories that will keep you hooked.
The DailyView AllThe Daily - Stay informed in just 20 minutes every morning.
SmartLessView AllSmartLess - Laugh and learn with hilarious celebrity interviews.
The Joe Rogan ExperienceView AllThe Joe Rogan Experience - Unfiltered conversations with the most fascinating guests.
This American LifeView AllThis American Life - Stories that touch hearts and spark conversations.
Call Her DaddyView AllCall Her Daddy - Bold and candid conversations about relationships.
Dateline NBCView AllDateline NBC - True crime stories with in-depth investigation.
Stuff You Should KnowView AllStuff You Should Know - Learn something new every day with fun and quirky facts.
Office LadiesView AllOffice Ladies - Get behind the scenes of The Office with your favorites.
The Ben Shapiro ShowView AllThe Ben Shapiro Show - Unapologetic commentary on politics, culture, and more.
Fastest-growing podcasts
1.
Crime Junkie
Crime Junkie is a popular true crime podcast hosted by Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat. Each episode delves deep into real-life criminal cases, from unsolved mysteries to notorious crimes. The hosts provide a detailed narrative, often including interviews, case updates, and their personal thoughts, making each case more engaging. The podcast has a loyal fan base, captivated by the hosts' storytelling and thorough research. True crime enthusiasts appreciate the blend of suspense and factual analysis. Whether covering cold cases or discussing ongoing investigations, Crime Junkie keeps listeners intrigued with its gripping content and in-depth exploration of criminal justice. The show has grown rapidly, reaching a broad audience of crime lovers seeking new perspectives on famous and lesser-known cases.
Pros
Gripping content- Thorough research
- Engaging storytelling
- Great for true crime lovers
- Regular updates
Cons
Potential for graphic content- Can be intense
- May be disturbing to some
- Repetitive themes
- Sensitive topics
2.
The Daily
Hosted by Michael Barbaro, The Daily is a news podcast by The New York Times that provides a daily overview of the biggest stories in politics, business, culture, and more. Each episode runs for about 20 minutes, offering concise, well-researched, and unbiased reporting. The show has become a staple for people looking to stay updated without spending too much time on traditional news formats. With a team of expert reporters and journalists, the show gives listeners a deeper understanding of the major headlines. It’s perfect for those who want quick insights, commentary, and expert analysis, all while maintaining journalistic integrity. Whether discussing current events, global affairs, or important social issues, The Daily keeps listeners well-informed, with an easy-to-digest format that fits into busy schedules.
Pros
- Concise format
- High-quality reporting
- Covers major news
- Regular updates
- Expert commentary
Cons
- Can be too brief for some
- Limited in-depth analysis
- May not cover niche topics
- Can feel repetitive
- Political bias concerns
3.
SmartLess
SmartLess is a comedy podcast hosted by actors Will Arnett, Jason Bateman, and Sean Hayes. The show features candid and often hilarious interviews with celebrities, actors, musicians, and other notable figures. Each episode begins with one of the hosts surprising the others with a mystery guest, creating natural reactions and a fun dynamic. With a blend of humor, wit, and meaningful conversations, SmartLess has quickly become a fan favorite, offering both laughs and insights into the lives of A-list guests. Listeners can expect laughter, insightful stories, and lighthearted banter. Whether discussing personal anecdotes or delving into their guests’ careers, the hosts create an engaging and entertaining podcast that is both funny and relatable. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy celebrity gossip mixed with humor and genuine connection.
Pros
- Hilarious dynamic
- Celebrity guests
- Fun format
- Engaging hosts
- Lighthearted content
Cons
- May be too lighthearted for some
- Can feel disjointed
- Limited to celebrity content
- May not be for everyone
- Repetitive humor
4.
The Joe Rogan Experience
The Joe Rogan Experience is a long-form interview podcast hosted by comedian Joe Rogan. Known for its unfiltered and often controversial discussions, Joe speaks with a wide range of guests, including comedians, scientists, authors, celebrities, and experts from various fields. The podcast covers diverse topics such as politics, philosophy, health, fitness, and popular culture. With episodes that can last several hours, the show has become one of the most popular podcasts in the world. Rogan’s relaxed conversational style creates an atmosphere where guests feel free to discuss their ideas in depth. While it can touch on a wide variety of subjects, The Joe Rogan Experience has also become known for its unapologetic discussions on controversial issues. The podcast appeals to listeners who enjoy long-form discussions and a deep dive into diverse topics, though the unfiltered nature may not appeal to all.
Pros
- Diverse guest list
- Long-form discussions
- Informal and relaxed
- Deep insights
- Wide range of topics
Cons
- Lengthy episodes
- Controversial topics
- Can be polarizing
- Potential misinformation
- Lack of structure
5.
This American Life
This American Life is an award-winning podcast hosted by Ira Glass. It tells compelling, real-life stories from people across the U.S., focusing on themes such as human experiences, social issues, and personal narratives. Each episode is structured around a central theme, with several stories exploring different perspectives on the topic. The storytelling is deeply emotional, often poignant, and relatable, making it an ideal choice for listeners who enjoy thought-provoking narratives. The podcast features a mix of humor, drama, and reflection, and it has been praised for its production quality and powerful storytelling. Whether covering topics like love, loss, or societal challenges, This American Life is a masterclass in narrative-driven podcasting.
Pros
- Emotionally impactful
- High-quality storytelling
- Thought-provoking
- Wide appeal
- Relatable themes
Cons
- Can be heavy or emotional
- Requires full attention
- Some episodes can be slow-paced
- May not appeal to everyone
- Lack of humor in some episodes
6.
Call Her Daddy
Call Her Daddy is a podcast that centers around sex, relationships, and pop culture. Hosted by Alex Cooper, the show takes a no-holds-barred approach to discussing modern dating, relationships, and the dynamics of sex. The podcast often features guest interviews, listener-submitted questions, and discussions on the wild side of dating culture. Initially gaining attention for its candid and often explicit content, Call Her Daddy has evolved to cover deeper discussions around female empowerment, self-esteem, and healthy relationships. The show’s unapologetic tone and humor appeal to a broad audience of listeners looking for a mix of advice, comedy, and real-life experiences.
Pros
- Bold and candid
- Humorous approach
- Real-life discussions
- Popular among younger audiences
- Empowering content
Cons
- Explicit content
- Can be polarizing
- Not for everyone
- Often controversial
- May seem repetitive at times
7.
Dateline NBC
Dateline NBC is a long-running news program and podcast that specializes in true crime stories, investigations, and deep dives into unsolved cases. The podcast features the work of investigative journalists and experts who provide thorough and insightful reporting on criminal cases, both solved and unsolved. Dateline has a reputation for its high-quality storytelling, compelling narratives, and dramatic retellings of real-life crime events. Each episode is typically an hour long, offering listeners a deep look into a case, often accompanied by interviews with law enforcement, witnesses, and experts. This podcast is perfect for true crime enthusiasts and those who enjoy investigative journalism.
Pros
- High-quality investigative journalism
- Gripping true crime stories
- In-depth reporting
- Dramatic storytelling
- Engaging investigations
Cons
- Sometimes repetitive
- Some cases lack closure
- Can be distressing
- Lengthy episodes
- Heavy focus on crime
8.
Stuff You Should Know
Stuff You Should Know is an educational podcast hosted by Josh Clark and Charles W. “Chuck” Bryant. The show explores a wide variety of topics in a fun and approachable manner, from science and history to pop culture and unusual facts. Each episode is researched and fact-checked, but the hosts make sure to present information in an entertaining way. The podcast is known for its witty commentary, light-hearted tone, and deep dives into fascinating subjects that listeners might not encounter elsewhere. Whether explaining how a black hole works or the history of a strange phenomenon, Stuff You Should Know offers knowledge that’s both accessible and engaging.
Pros
- Fun and educational
- Entertaining hosts
- Wide range of topics
- Accessible knowledge
- Well-researched content
Cons
- Can be overly casual
- Occasionally too long
- Episodes may feel light
- Not focused on specific areas
- Repetitive humor
9.
Office Ladies
Office Ladies is a podcast hosted by The Office stars Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey, where they revisit their time on the hit television show. The hosts interview cast members, crew, and special guests, providing behind-the-scenes insights, funny stories, and never-before-heard anecdotes. The podcast is a must-listen for fans of The Office, as it dives into the making of iconic episodes, reveals personal experiences from the cast, and offers an inside look at the show's success. Whether you’re a fan of the show or just curious about television production, Office Ladies combines nostalgia with exclusive details from one of the most beloved TV shows.
Pros
- Nostalgic for The Office fans
- Funny banter
- Behind-the-scenes content
- Engaging guest interviews
- Fan-focused
Cons
- Limited to The Office content
- May feel repetitive for casual listeners
- Overwhelming for non-fans
- Less focused on broader topics
- Pacing can vary
10.
The Ben Shapiro Show
The Ben Shapiro Show is a political podcast hosted by Ben Shapiro, known for his fast-talking style and sharp commentary. The show covers current events, politics, and cultural issues from a conservative viewpoint. Shapiro’s direct approach, combined with his emphasis on logic and reason, appeals to listeners who prefer a no-nonsense approach to political commentary. Each episode is filled with rapid-fire analysis of news stories, as well as interviews with notable conservative figures. The show is often controversial due to Shapiro's blunt style and strong opinions, making it a must-listen for those who agree with or want to hear opposing views.
Pros
- Bold commentary
- Rapid analysis
- Conservative viewpoint
- Thought-provoking
- Engaging delivery
Cons
- Highly polarized
- Can be confrontational
- Intense opinions
- Not for those seeking neutrality
- Often controversial