Best Podcasts for True Crime Lovers: Gripping Stories You Won’t Want to Pause
True crime has exploded in popularity, and for good reason—it taps into our curiosity about the human psyche, justice, and the darker corners of real life. Podcasts have become one of the best formats for exploring these stories, offering in-depth reporting, atmospheric storytelling, and chilling details that keep listeners hooked.
Whether you're a seasoned true crime fanatic or new to the genre, here are some of the Best podcasts for true crime lovers to dive into in 2025.
1. Crime Junkie
Host: Ashley Flowers & Brit Prawat
Style: Weekly stories, conversational tone
One of the most popular true crime podcasts out there, Crime Junkie delivers compelling stories in a straight-to-the-point, no-frills format. Hosts Ashley and Brit explore both well-known and lesser-known cases with a blend of empathy and tension. It’s perfect for anyone who likes gripping storytelling without too much side chatter.
Why listen? Reliable weekly episodes and strong storytelling make this a go-to for many fans.
2. Morbid: A True Crime Podcast
Host: Alaina Urquhart & Ash Kelley
Style: Mix of dark humor and research
Morbid balances creepy tales with engaging commentary and occasional comic relief. Hosted by an autopsy technician and a hairstylist, the podcast dives into everything from serial killers to haunted locations, giving listeners a mix of murder, mystery, and mayhem.
Why listen? The chemistry between the hosts adds a personal touch to deeply researched cases.
Casefile stands out for its meticulous research and chilling delivery. The anonymous host narrates complex cases in a calm, emotionless tone that somehow makes the stories even more disturbing. It covers both solved and unsolved crimes, with a global scope that goes beyond typical U.S.-centric cases.
Why listen? It’s detailed, serious, and incredibly immersive.
If you like true crime but also enjoy humor and personality, My Favorite Murder might be your perfect fit. Each episode features a mix of murder stories and personal anecdotes, all wrapped in a casual, comedic tone. It’s part murder podcast, part confessional.
Why listen? It’s entertaining, community-driven, and often introduces lesser-known cases.
5. The Retrievals
Host: Susan Burton
Style: Investigative journalism
From Serial Productions and The New York Times, The Retrievals is a haunting and infuriating deep dive into a real-life scandal at Yale’s fertility clinic, where dozens of women underwent painful procedures without anesthesia. The podcast explores pain, gender bias in medicine, and institutional failure.
Why listen? It's investigative storytelling at its finest, with a powerful message.
6. Sword and Scale
Host: Mike Boudet
Style: Graphic, psychological, and detailed
This is not a podcast for the weak of heart. Sword and Scale dives into the darkest crimes with unfiltered intensity. It includes real 911 calls, court audio, and interviews to paint a disturbing but thorough picture of each case.
Why listen? If you want gritty, no-holds-barred crime stories, this one delivers.
7. To Live and Die in L.A.
Host: Neil Strauss
Style: Real-time investigation
This investigative podcast follows missing persons cases in Los Angeles, and it's gripping because it unfolds in real-time. Host Neil Strauss takes listeners along as he uncovers new clues and interviews those closest to the victims. Season 1 about actress Adea Shabani is especially riveting.
Why listen? It feels like you're part of the investigation, with twists at every turn.
Final Thoughts
True crime podcasts offer more than shock value—they tell human stories, highlight injustices, and sometimes even help solve cold cases. Whether you prefer the straightforward style of Casefile, the comedic approach of My Favorite Murder, or the investigative depth of The Retrievals, there’s a true crime podcast for every listener.
So grab your headphones and prepare to be captivated—you may never look at your quiet neighborhood the same way again.