Have you ever found yourself fascinated by the murky details of an unsolved case or the chilling motives of a criminal mind? True crime podcasts have a way of gripping listeners, drawing them into stories of mystery, murder, and justice.
But with so many options, how do you discover the best new true crime podcast? Whether you’re a seasoned true crime junkie or a curious newcomer, this guide dives deep into what makes these podcasts irresistible. It highlights the must-listen recommendations for your next binge.
Why Are True Crime Podcasts So Addictive?
True crime podcasts tap into our innate curiosity about the human psyche and the criminal justice system. They combine the intrigue of storytelling with the drama of real-life events, allowing us to explore the darker aspects of human nature from a safe distance. From serial killers to bizarre thefts, every story offers a glimpse into the worlds of victims, suspects, and investigators.
But true crime isn’t just about the shock factor. Podcasts like My Favorite Murder and Serial delve into complex narratives that challenge our understanding of morality, justice, and empathy. For example, Adnan Syed’s story in Serial highlights systemic flaws in the justice system, making listeners question whether everything is as it seems.
The Best New True Crime Podcasts
Ridiculous Crime
If you’re tired of the same crime stories and want a lighter take on the genre, Ridiculous Crime serves up absurd and hilarious tales. From botched heists to petty criminals with wild schemes, this podcast brings humor to the dark world of crime.
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What Makes It Unique: Focuses on bizarre crimes rather than gruesome details.
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Best For: Listeners who enjoy a comedic approach to storytelling.
My Favorite Murder
This podcast, hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, blends personal anecdotes with true crime tales. The duo’s witty banter and unique storytelling style make even the most chilling stories entertaining.
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Why It’s a Must-Listen: Covers everything from infamous murders to lesser-known tragedies while keeping the tone relatable and conversational.
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Highlight Episode: A deep dive into Judy Garland’s ruby slippers theft is both bizarre and captivating.
Serial
A pioneer in the podcasting world, Serial delivers meticulously researched stories over multiple episodes, offering listeners a detailed look into a single case.
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Why You Should Listen: Each season is a masterclass in investigative journalism, tackling topics like wrongful convictions and cold cases.
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Standout Season: The first season, exploring the conviction of Adnan Syed, remains a fan favorite.
Crime Junkie
A staple for true crime junkies, this podcast, hosted by Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat, delivers weekly episodes packed with suspense and twists. Each episode dives into a case with detailed research and compelling storytelling.
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Why It’s Loved: Accessible for new listeners while offering fresh cases for seasoned fans.
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Memorable Episode: The tragic story of a missing woman found under chilling circumstances.
The Last Podcast on the Left
Blending dark humor with creepy true crime stories, this show covers everything from serial killers to supernatural phenomena. The hosts bring a lively and irreverent approach to some of history’s darkest tales.
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Why It Stands Out: Combines crime, creepy history, and even the bizarre for a diverse listening experience.
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Best For: Fans of horror-comedy who want a mix of entertainment and chills.
Morbid: A True Crime Podcast
Hosted by an autopsy technician and a hairstylist, Morbid offers a unique perspective on true crime with a touch of humor and plenty of heart. The hosts’ chemistry and engaging discussions make it a standout.
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Highlight Episode: An exploration of an unsolved murder that takes unexpected turns.
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Best Feature: A blend of in-depth research and lighthearted moments.
Someone Knows Something
This podcast focuses on unsolved murders and missing persons cases, taking listeners on an emotional journey to uncover the truth.
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Why You Should Listen: Brings attention to cold cases that deserve resolution.
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Noteworthy Season: A father’s search for his missing son that spans decades.
Criminal
Criminals set themselves apart by telling stories that explore crime from unique perspectives. Instead of focusing solely on murder and violence, this podcast dives into quirky and thought-provoking tales.
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Why It’s a Top Pick: Perfect for listeners who want more than just grisly stories, offering insights into the justice system and human nature.
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Unforgettable Episode: The theft of a priceless artifact that leads to an unexpected twist.
Conviction
This podcast is dedicated to stories of wrongful convictions, shining a light on the flaws in the criminal justice system. Through powerful storytelling, it amplifies the voices of those seeking justice.
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Why It’s Important: Raises awareness about the consequences of false accusations.
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Best Season: Chronicles the journey of a wrongfully convicted man fighting to clear his name.
Small Town Dicks
Hosted by Yeardley Smith (the voice of Lisa Simpson) and two real-life detectives, this podcast brings listeners behind the scenes of investigations in small communities.
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Unique Angle: Real detectives share firsthand accounts of cases, offering authenticity and deep insights.
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Best Episode: The chilling tale of a missing wife that takes investigators on an unexpected path.
Why These Podcasts Are Worth Your Time
True crime podcasts aren’t just about entertainment—they hold significant cultural and social value. Here’s why they matter:
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Shedding Light on Injustice: Podcasts often explore systemic flaws in the criminal justice system, raising awareness about issues like wrongful convictions and racial disparities.
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Amplifying Victims’ Voices: By telling the stories of victims and their family members, true crime podcasts honor their experiences and bring attention to cases that might otherwise go unnoticed.
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Engaging in Social Commentary: Shows like Ridiculous Crime or My Favorite Murder incorporate humor while addressing serious issues, making complex topics more accessible.
How to Choose the Best True Crime Podcast
With so many options, selecting the right true crime podcast can be daunting. Here’s what to consider:
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Your Preferred Tone: Do you enjoy dark humor (Ridiculous Crime), in-depth journalism (Serial), or a mix of both (My Favorite Murder)?
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Focus Area: Some podcasts cover creepy history, while others tackle mysteries or bizarre crimes. Decide what intrigues you most.
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Host Expertise: Podcasts hosted by journalists or experts offer more credibility and insightful commentary.
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Episode Frequency: Regular new episodes ensure fresh content for binge-listening.
Pros and Cons of True Crime Podcasts
Pros
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Offers insight into the criminal justice system and human behavior.
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Provides a mix of entertainment and education.
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Creates a sense of community among true crime junkies.
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Spotlights overlooked stories, such as crimes against Black women or missing person cases.
Cons
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Some stories can be emotionally taxing or triggering.
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Not all podcasts handle sensitive topics with care.
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Over-sensationalizing cases can detract from victims’ experiences.
Why Should You Listen to True Crime Podcasts?
True crime podcasts aren’t just gripping—they’re meaningful.
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Educational Value: Learn about the history of crime, the intricacies of the justice system, and the psychology of criminals.
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Empathy Building: Hearing tragic stories of victims and their family members fosters understanding and compassion.
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Engaging Storytelling: From shocking twists to heartfelt moments, these podcasts deliver on all fronts.
For instance, Serial masterfully weaves suspense with journalistic rigor, while My Favorite Murder creates a unique blend of humor and humanity.
Comparing True Crime Podcasts to Other Genres
True crime podcasts stand out for their storytelling and emotional depth. While the best mental health podcast or the best podcast for business owners focuses on personal growth and professional advice, true crime podcasts offer a glimpse into the darker aspects of life, making them both thrilling and thought-provoking.
Conclusion: Why True Crime Podcasts Are Worth Exploring
The best new true crime podcast isn’t just about telling stories—it’s about exploring humanity’s complexities, uncovering truths, and fostering empathy. Whether you’re drawn to dark humor, investigative journalism, or heartfelt storytelling, true crime podcasts offer something for everyone.
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