15 Good True Crime Podcasts for Your Next Obsession

If you open Apple Podcasts or Spotify and look at your most-listened-to genres, there’s a good chance true crime podcasts land somewhere in the top 5. We’ve watched Dateline, we’ve tuned into Cold Case Files, and we realized we needed something more… accessible. Something we can listen to on commutes, doing laundry, and while getting ready in the morning. Enter: true crime podcasts.

Over the last few years, approximately 42 million Americans have tuned in to true crime podcasts monthly. Plus, listening hours alone increase around 50% year over year. People quickly realized they craved on-the-go content tailored to their unique true crime niche. And trust us, the true crime genre is BROAD—there’s a lot of different avenues you can explore.

Maybe you like sketchy romance stories like “The Mobster Next Door” from The Dating Detectives. Or maybe you’re more interested in knowing behind-the-scenes details, like Holly Madison discussing the Playboy Murderson The Bossticks. 

Here’s the good news: your search for the perfect episode is over. In this post, we’re rounding up all of the best true crime podcasts worth adding to your queue. Think: conversations about the legal system, real-life unsolved mysteries, and award-winning series that cover it all. Ready to find your next true crime obsession?

15 Good True Crime Podcasts for Your Next Obsession

It’s no secret that there’s an overwhelming amount of true crime podcasts out there. It makes choosing a new guilty-pleasure listen feel like a chore, not a treat. And once you really start digging? You realize some hosts check off all the boxes while others totally miss the mark. 

Separating high-quality journalism from low-effort content can feel exhausting, which is why we did the work for you. When you have a list of the most compelling, well-produced true crime podcasts, you can actually get EXCITED about listening again.

First, let’s talk about what true crime podcasts are, why they’re so popular, and what makes a true crime show good. Then we’ll dive into the top-rated recs that deserve a spot on your must-listen list.

And once you’re finished here? Make sure to check out the best mystery podcasts that are sure to keep you guessing.

What Are True Crime Podcasts?

A true crime podcast is a non-fiction series that investigates and analyzes real-life criminal cases. The topics can include murders, kidnappings, investigative documentaries, serial killer biographies, white-collar fraud, true crime literature, cult crimes, forensic-focused stories, and cold cases. Remember when we said it was a broad niche? We meant it.

Originating back in the 2000s, true crime began to gain traction when people realized the benefit of on-the-go audio. However, it wasn’t until Serial premiered in 2014 that the genre really exploded. It’s coined as “The Serial Effect,” and it’s a legit thing.

There have been SO many podcast investigations that have led to reopened cases, public pressure, and real-world impact. Take Your Own Backyard, for example, where journalist and host Chris Lambert’s exploration into a 1996 cold case led to a conviction decades later. Or Dear Media’s first true crime podcast, Believeable: The Coco Berthmann Story, which led to a larger discussion about faith, fame, and fraud.

BTW, if you’ve already tuned into the Coco Berthmann story, we have a few other surprises up our sleeve. Listen to “Survivor & Counter Human Sex Trafficking Specialist Coco Berthmann on Working to End Human Trafficking & the Sex Slave Trade.” Lauryn and Michael Bosstick featured her on their podcast before her arrest, and it’s a fascinating perspective. Naturally, follow up with their NEXT episode, “Believeable: The Coco Berthmann Story,” where they discuss the interview post-arrest.

63% of true crime podcast listeners say the content makes them more vigilant and safety-conscious—which is EXTREMELY important. Beyond that, at least 50% of Americans report they’ve gained a better understanding of the criminal justice system. 51% say true crime shows helped them develop empathy for victims of crimes. 

As of 2024, true crime listeners tripled just in 5 years—and it’s not slowing down anytime soon.

Why Are True Crime Podcasts So Popular?

More often than not, a lot of us wonder… Why do so many people like true crime podcasts? They’re dark, disturbing, and, usually, incredibly emotional. So what keeps us so hooked? Here are a few reasons:

The Psychology Behind Curiosity

Ultimately, it all comes down to natural curiosity. We want to know why people do what they do, what makes them have a “dark side,” and why people are obsessed with violence. But aside from that, experts also suggest that a true crime obsession stems from a desire to learn how to protect ourselves. 

True crime podcasts allow us to listen, learn, and observe at a distance. It challenges us to think: “What would I do if I were in this situation?” And through thoughtful interviews and expert advice, we’re able to formulate just-in-case plans.

Storytelling Feels Personal

The right kind of true crime podcasts blend compassion with storytelling. It doesn’t feel like you turned on your late-night local news broadcast. Instead, it feels like a conversation, deep diving into timelines, interviews, and investigative details. 

It’s like a mystery novel for your mind. (Speaking of, check out our recommendations of books like Gone Girl!) You can listen to clues, piece together puzzles, and tune into shocking twists episode by episode. 

Sense of Community

We all appreciate a sense of community. It’s the same reason we listen to “Grandma Hobbies 101! Why You Need Them & How to Start” from House Guest. Or even “The Five Pound Lie” from Don’t Think. We find topics, hosts, and theories we connect with—and we look for others who share those same interests.

The same goes for true crime. People discuss theories, evidence, and case updates, forming this sense of collective curiosity and community. Rather than simply consuming a story, you feel like you’re part of something much bigger. 

What Is a Good True Crime Podcast?

Not all true crime podcasts are good. Some sensationalize victims, gruesome details, and the families, giving the genre a bad rap. That’s why when you’re searching for a truly good true crime podcast, it’s important to look for:

• Clear sourcing
• Balanced storytelling
• Ethical framing
• Transparent corrections
• Respectful victim coverage
• Investigative depth
• Strong narrative pacing

Trust us, true crime stories don’t have to be flashy, grabby, or loud to be “good.” In fact, the most popular true crime podcasts are ethical, compassionate, and respectful—and their approaches prove it. Which, BTW, are the ONLY kinds of podcasts we’ll be recommending. You can learn so much more about ethics and true crime in THIS article from the School of Journalism and Communication.

If you’re ready to find options that balance real-life details and compelling storytelling, keep reading.

What Are the Best True Crime Podcasts?

Comedy True Crime Podcast​s

My Favorite Murder

Hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, My Favorite Murder is a popular comedy true crime podcast that explores stories through humor, banter, and self-deprecating commentary. Don’t worry, they’re not mocking victims. Instead, they’re commenting on the weird behaviors of suspects or strange details of cases.

They even have a hometown segment that allows listeners to submit their own personal, bizarre experiences. It’s vulnerable, empathetic, and relatable, all through a much lighter take than traditional true crime podcasts offer. Start with “I’m the Loudest, You’re the Smartest,” an episode about Mohammed Islam’s teenage day trading hoax.

Small Town Murder

Two comedians, James Pietragallo and Jimmie Whisman, spend each Thursday looking deeper into small-town murders. Just like My Favorite Murder, the hosts of Small Town Murder don’t make light of victims or their tragedies. Instead, it’s a humorous approach to weird criminal behavior, the oddity of small towns, and ineffective police strategies.

Think commentary like: “This idiot really thought he could get away with it after leaving his fingerprints all over the scene?” They also dive really deep into the details of each small town, like local festivities, demographics, and name origins. It’s seriously as insightful as it is intriguing. Start with “Perverted Pest Killer – Velma, Oklahoma!”

Most Popular True Crime Podcasts

Crime Junkie

You know them, you love them, and they’re probably already part of your weekly rotation. Introducing: best friends and hosts of Crime Junkie, Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat. This duo keeps true crime conversations engaging, victim-centered, and ethical, balancing suspense with a sense of justice.

Rather than feeling like a documentary, the two transform each discussion into a relatable, accessible conversation between friends. From missing persons to murder mysteries, Crime Junkie generally spotlights cases that deserve justice, awareness, and attention. 

There are SOOO many good episodes to start with, but we love “INFAMOUS: Mr. Cruel,” an episode about a serial predator in Melbourne, Australia.

Serial

The podcast that truly got the ball rolling for audio-accessible true crime, Serial, deserves its own drumroll. Host, co-creator, and executive producer Sarah Koenig truly pioneered her platform with the perfect blend of high-stakes drama and empathetic storytelling. With her relatable, candid approach, the coverage of Adnan Syed in Serial season 1 was effortlessly binge-able.

This investigative true crime podcast spends each season diving into a new, unique real-life criminal case. They spend a ton of time reviewing evidence, police investigations, and witness testimonies, making listeners feel like they’re truly a part of the case.

Start with episode 1 of season 15, “The Preventionist.” And once you’re done binge-listening to this show, make sure to check out our post, “Best Podcasts Like Serial.”

Morbid: A True Crime Podcast

Hosted by autopsy technician Alaina Urquhart and hairstylist Ash Kelley, Morbid is engaging, relatable, and respectful. While the aunt-and-niece duo explores dark subject matter, they tastefully add in humor, expert-driven storytelling, and forensic insight. It’s a much more detailed, insightful podcast than other options in the genre!

They don’t always just cover true crime, either. They also explore haunted locations, creepy history, and spooky listener-submitted stories. The conversations are authentic, and the perspectives are unique, to say the least! 

Start with “The 1916 Jersey Shore Shark Attacks (Part 1).” Not your typical serial killer story, but it’s a SUPER interesting look into whether these shark attacks were accidental… or intentional. 

Morbid True Crime Podcasts

Invisible Choir

While Invisible Choir does explore a deeply investigative, often graphic approach to true crime, it’s done with complete respect. In fact, one of their slogans is: “We aim to bring voice to the voiceless, and visibility to the invisible.” So yes, it’s definitely much more raw and graphic—but it’s not to sensationalize the details. It’s to bring victim awareness.

Host Michael Ojibway, an experienced investigator in sexual assault, harassment, and discrimination, brings a unique perspective to cases. Through calmness and compassion, Invisible Choir explores original audios, court testimonies, and 911 calls to focus on victim advocacy.

Start with “Slow Justice,” an episode about the Tammie Cessna case from 2014.

True Crime Garage

True Crime Garage is one of those stand-out podcasts that perfectly blends insightful perspective, authentic storytelling, and dark psychological truths. Whether hosts Nic Edwards and “The Captain” are deep-diving into hometown horrors or international mysteries, every second is sharp, chilling, and completely captivating.

For true crime enthusiasts, this is definitely one show you don’t want to skip out on. Just as an example, here are a few of the top cases they cover:

• JonBenét Ramsey
• O.J. Simpson
• Zodiac Killer
• John Wayne Gacy

So, no matter what kind of true crime fan you are, True Crime Garage has an immersive, detailed episode for every listener. 

Best Long-Form True Crime Podcasts

Cold

If you’re someone who can’t wrap their mind around missing persons cases, first off, JOIN THE CLUB. They’re seriously all-consuming, and the narrative podcast series, Cold, gets that. Dave Crawley, the host of Cold, is also an investigative journalist. In light of this, he brings a detailed, ethical approach to his podcast—all through unprecedented access to source material. 

AKA, you get every little detail. He doesn’t just focus on the murder itself. Instead, Dave has the “when, where, why, what, and how” questions, and he’s here to find the answers. Through audio recordings, personal journal entries, and video diaries, Cold is both chilling and extremely insightful.

Season 1 covers the Susan Powell case, Season 2 discusses justice for Joyce Yost, Season 3 explores the search for Sheree, and Season 4 explores Eric Robinson’s disappearance. Start with your favorite and get ready to become fully immersed. 

Bear Brook

Bear Brook, a critically acclaimed true crime podcast hosted by Jason Moon, sheds light on decades-old cases. More specifically, Moon played a crucial role in solving the Bear Brook Murders (also known as the Allentown Four), as his storytelling inspired listeners to conduct their own research.

Stephen King himself, the legendary horror and supernatural fiction writer, said Bear Brook was “the best true crime podcast he’s ever heard.” The New Yorker said season 1 stands out for its “ambition, complexity, and thoughtful tone.” Blending forensic science and in-depth storytelling, this podcast is a must-listen for long-form podcast fans.

Best Investigative True Crime Podcasts

In the Dark

In the Dark, an award-winning investigative journalism podcast hosted by Madeleine Baran, is driven by empathy and precision. Rather than focusing solely on true crime cases, Madeleine exposes systemic failures in the justice system. Think: wrongful convictions, mishandled information, and a lack of accountability.

As a three-time Peabody Award winner and the winner of a Pulitzer Prize for season 3, In the Dark is incredibly rigorous and respectful. It also makes you wonder… How many people out there are sitting in a cell for something they didn’t do? Or how many cases were previously mishandled that could’ve been solved? 

Start with season 1, episode 1, titled “The Crime.” It’s a deep dive into the abduction of Jacob Wetterling, the case that led to the first national requirement that states track sex offenders via registries. 

Up and Vanished

Filmmaker and host of Up and Vanished, Payne Lindsey, is known and loved for his real-time, immersive investigations. With a highly journalistic approach, the content is just as accessible, intriguing, and easy to binge-listen to. More specifically, he heavily focuses on putting pressure on cases that haven’t—but could be—solved. 

The best example? The Tara Grinstead cold case, the case of an American high school history teacher who went missing in 2005. Up and Vanished incited public interest, potential witnesses, and new leads through precise investigative reporting. Each episode follows Lindsey as he discovers new information—in REAL time. Start with season 1, “Cold as Alaska.”

Narrative True Crime Podcasts

Dirty John

A true crime podcast from the LA Times, Dirty John is an investigation into the life of John Meehan, a manipulative, abusive con artist. Posing as a wealthy anesthesiologist on a dating site, John met Debra Newell, a successful businesswoman. But here’s what she didn’t know: John was actually a formerly imprisoned nurse with a history of tricking women for money.

Although her kids tried to warn her, Debra eventually married John. Naturally, this led to an incredibly toxic, dangerous situation, ending with John stalking her family and… well, we can’t spoil it! Tune into “Ep. 1: The Real Thing.” Trust us, you don’t wanna miss out.  

Oh, and while you’re at it, listen to “The OG Dogfish with Terra Newell” from The Dating Detectives. This episode offers a first-person perspective right from Debra’s daughter.

Dr. Death

Have you ever been frustrated and exhausted by doctors? Sometimes they just don’tget it—especially if you’re a woman. (Tune into “The Truth About Women’s Health with SHE MD” from With Whit for more on THAT conversation.) Dr. Death, hosted by medical journalist Laura Beil, spotlights the emphasis on medical malpractice. 

Medical vulnerability is real, and it’s something people don’t talk about enough. Beil covers this exact topic through a high-stakes, true-crime narrative lens, exploring shocking cases and systemic failures by doctors who would’ve had their licenses revoked a LONG time ago.

Listen to episode 1, “Dr. Duntsch | Three Days in Dallas.” This season is all about a patient who walked into the hospital, and due to her doctor, was left unable to even wiggle her toes.

Historical True Crime Podcasts

Criminal

Hosted by Phoebe Judge, this historical true crime podcast focuses on stories about the people involved in crimes—the ones who have done wrong, been wronged, or were caught in the middle. It’s not all murder mysteries, though. Phoebe also focuses on white-collar crimes, historical mysteries, and the reasons why people do bad things.

More specifically? It focuses on the mental health and human aspect behind crimes. Because sometimes people don’t just steal million-dollar art pieces and scam people for the fun of it. And the only way we can learn that is through interviews with perpetrators, victims, and bystanders. 

Recognized as a top podcast in her genre, tune into “Excited Delirium” first. It’s an episode about how Angelo Quinto’s cause of death was, you guessed it, excited delirium. 

Generation Why

Hosted by Justin and Aaron, Generation Why has been considered a pioneering true crime show since 2012. With in-depth research, the duo analyzes theories rather than highlights gruesome, gory details. And just like Serial, it was one of the first podcasts that truly established the genre’s popularity.

The research is respectful, the conversations are thoughtful, and the details are analytical. Justin and Aaron prioritize evidence, theories, and the “why” behind the crime—something a LOT of us are curious about. Start with “Mysterious Death of Noah Presgrove,” it’s a goodie.

Frequently Asked Questions About True Crime Podcasts

How many true crime podcasts are there?

Technically, there’s no real way to account for how many true crime podcasts actually exist. That said, it’s estimated that there are over 20,000 true crime podcasts available, which is why it’s consistently ranked among the top genres. 

Are true crime podcasts ethical?

The right true crime podcasts are ethical. Some podcasts prioritize entertainment, toxic fan culture, and shocking, misinformed details—and those aren’t the ones you want to listen to. Responsible hosts prioritize accuracy, advocacy, and consent.

How many people listen to true crime podcasts?

119 million Americans over 13 years old listen to true crime podcasts. If you wanna talk percentages, that’s about 42% of the population. Needless to say, it’s easily one of the most popular genres—and it doesn’t look to be downsizing anytime soon.

When did true crime podcasts become popular?

True crime has been popular forever, with movies, documentaries, and TV shows capitalizing on people’s natural intrigue. That said, Serial is widely recognized as making true crime podcasts as popular as they are. As the fastest podcast to reach 5 million downloads, it was essentially the “turning point” in the popularity of true crime podcasts.

Who listens to true crime podcasts?

About 57% of women and 34% of men listen to true crime podcasts (of the same education level). To dive deeper, people ages 18–29 and those with a high school diploma or less are more likely to tune in.

Looking for an intriguing, respectful, and immersive true crime podcast? You have plenty of recommendations right here. 

In a world bursting with true crime podcasts, it can feel hard to find a show that really checks off all the boxes. Plus, now that you know some of them are unethical and disrespectful? It feels even harder. However, instead of having to search for ones you like, we did the research for you! All of these podcasts are respectful, insightful, and informative. And, most importantly, so easy to binge.

Don’t stop here! We have SO many other good podcast, book, and TV show recs over on the Dear Media blog. And, of course, our incredible Dear Media podcast hosts cover every niche you can think of—health, wellness, pop culture, dating, and lifestyle improvements included.