True crime podcasts have become an intriguing genre. They allow you to experience the thrill of crime without having the fear of actually experiencing it. More interestingly, they let you understand the minds of these criminals—what their lives are like and what prompts them to do these things. This knowledge of criminal psychology can benefit you and allow you to see people in other shades rather than just black and white.
The 8 Best True Crime Podcasts:
1. Serial
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ | Genre: Investigative Journalism
Where to Listen: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | Audible
This podcast easily tops this list, as it is the master of the genre. The first season of Serial, which is believed to be behind the epidemic of true crime podcasts, has become the benchmark. Every season of this investigative journalism podcast centers on a different case, shedding light on complex criminal situations through in-depth investigation, interviews, and stories.
Serial’s account of how guilt, truth, and reality are decided, made it the first-ever podcast to earn a Peabody Award. It has attracted significant attention and broken down barriers, and above all: its impact on the criminal justice system.
In one of the sequences, the host, Sarah Koenig, examines the 1999 murder of schoolgirl Hae Min Lee. The man declared guilty of her murder, Adnan Syed, maintains his innocence throughout the series. Koenig’s analysis of the case is gripping as she examines the evidence and consults with witnesses. A common person’s knowledge of the US legal and jail systems was significantly changed by the podcast that assisted in something as significant as Adnan Syed’s release.
If you start listening to this podcast, which we recommend you do, make sure you listen to it in chronological order so the narrative arc is maintained and you don’t ruin the fun by stumbling upon spoilers. And of course, start with season 1!
2. Crime Junkie
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Genre: Murder Mysteries, Unsolved Crimes
Where to listen: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | Audible | YouTube
Despite covering a lot of gloomy subjects, this podcast is fascinating for those who are legit true crime podcast fans. It makes you think. The Crime Junkies cover episodes on missing people, conspiracy theories, cold cases, infamous cases, and more. However, Ashley and Brit’s primary concentration is on unsolved murder cases. Every episode offers their personal opinions on the case as well as in-depth descriptions.
3. In the Dark
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Genre: Investigative Journalism
Where to listen: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | Audible | YouTube
Madeleine Baran hosts this podcast about investigative journalism. She invests her time, effort, and resources in posing difficult questions regarding justice in the United States. Every season revolves around a murder case, but the show emphasizes justice above crime. It derives its significant narrative strength from revealing the consequences of decisions made about that suffering rather than from human suffering itself.
Also Check: 6 Great True Crime Podcasts For The Fans Of ‘Only Murders In The Building’
4. The Desi Crime Podcast
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Genre: Indian Crimes
Where to listen: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | JioSaavn | Audible | YouTube
Fans of true crime podcasts, especially those who are drawn to tales from South Asia, should not miss the Desi Crime Podcast. It stands out from other works in the genre because of the combination of in-depth research, engrossing storytelling, and cultural background. Aishwarya and Aryyan’s podcast is a great option for anyone interested in exploring the subject of true crime podcasts because it informs, entertains, and teaches at the same time.
5. Casefile
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Genre: Dark Web, Murder Mysteries, Cult-religion, Solved-unsolve Cases
Where to listen: Podbean App | Apple Premium | Spotify Premium | Patreon
The creator of this podcast has skillfully combined compassion and in-depth research to gain the listener’s trust and tackles some extremely violent topics such as the Port Arthur Massacre, Daniel Morcombe, and the Lin Family Murders. We must disappoint you if you’ve been wondering who the Casefile narrator is—they have chosen to stay anonymous. However, rather than a downside, we think this fact makes this podcast even more worthy of one’s attention because the stories are uncovered authentically.
6. Khooni: The Crimes of India
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Genre: Indian Crimes In a Gripping Way
Where to listen: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Wynk | Audible | YouTube
In this podcast, two Indian girls attempt to make their way through the dark seas of true crime in India. So, come along with them as they recount and occasionally laugh about the fascinating aspects of each case. This podcast contains something for everyone, regardless of your interests—true crime enthusiasts, aspiring detectives, secret deviants, or just someone searching for something intriguing to spice up your day!
7. Dr. Death
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Genre: Medical Negligence
Where to listen: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | Audible | YouTube
Dr. Death investigates a distinct example of grave medical negligence in each of its seasons, and Laura Biel tells the stories with skill. Numerous interviews exist featuring individuals who were directly impacted by the decisions made by these people, who eventually had control over other’s lives. Although it’s highly addictive, be advised that some extremely explicit portrayals of medical operations may trigger you. If so, this is your TW!
8. Miss Conduct: A True Crime Podcast
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Genre: Murder Mysteries, Unbelievable Crimes
Where to listen: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | JioSaavn | IVM Podcasts Network
We find it difficult to accept that women may commit crimes. However, Nisha Chandrasekaran and Ragavi Ramesh, the hosts of this podcast, want you to feel at ease with the idea that there are female criminals—that they too can be evil people with goals and intentions. Miss Conduct tells the story of Indian women who committed some horrific, and occasionally hilarious crimes.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, these crime podcasts will engross you in the thrill of every crime; however, from a distance. They will get you straight into the psyche of the criminals, and you’ll feel as if you too are accompanying them on their journey. From murders and massacres to conspiracy theories and the flawed system of justice, there is something in store for everyone. So, grab your earphones and immerse yourself in the world of true crime podcasts.
Also Check: The 11 Best Podcasts To Listen To In 2024