Podcasts have become a binge-able way for us to consume information, receive encouragement and learn about topics of interest. One reason is that they are easy to listen to during commuting or downtime. Trends show that podcast listeners increased from 274.8 million in 2019 to 464.7 million in 2023. Among the most popular podcast topics that intrigue audiences include True Crime. There are many excellent podcasts, but knowing which ones are worth investing time in can be challenging. This list includes listeners’ top True Crime podcasts based on downloads, followers and shares.
If you are new to True Crime podcasts, you may wonder why anyone would listen to gore, horror and scary situations during their downtime. Many people like to analyze details and learn what to be aware of in life. Other times, many podcasts have one or two hosts who use conversational voices. It often feels like you are talking to a friend. One of the benefits of conversational voice is the details are typically revealed using discussion and complexity.
True Crime podcasts also allow us to become invested in a real-life person, understand motivation and delve deep into the emotions behind the content. Those interested in psychology, how a person’s brain works and the why behind motivations may find True Crime podcasts compelling and educational. This genre also reinforces empathy. Some of these podcasts explore cases of murder, missing persons and other horrific crimes, deep-diving into one or two crimes during each episode. Other podcasts take one specific case and explore deeper throughout several episodes.
If you want a new podcast to invest your time in, take a look at the top podcasts below. To compile a list of the top True Crime podcasts 24/7 Tempo consulted podcast websites and charts, including Apple iTunes and Spotify. You may just find your next new binge-worthy podcast to play on the way to work. (If True Crime podcasts are not your thing, take a look at our list of the top must listen to fitness podcasts.)
“Beyond All Repair”
- From: WBUR
- Host(s): Amory Sivertson
Sophia Johnson was starting over in life with a new husband, excitedly awaiting the arrival of their baby. Yet, one day, her mother-in-law was found slaughtered in her home, and Sophia Johnson’s world was immediately turned upside down.
She became the prime suspect when her brother accused her of the murder, and no matter how she tried, no one believed her innocence.
“Beyond All Repair” takes a deep dive into the unsolved murder of Marlyne Johnson, a 58-year-old woman murdered in 2002, the effect of the case on the family, and begs the question, who do you believe?
“Three”
- From: Wavland
- Host(s): Justine Harman and Holly Millea
The last time Skylar Neese’s parents saw her was on a video, as she snuck out of her house in 2012. She entered the Appalachian woods with two other girls but was not with them when they came home.
“Three” takes a closer look at Skylar Neese’s case and what exactly happened on that fateful night.
“Crime Junkie”
- From: audiochuck
- Host(s): Ashley Flowers, Brit Prawat
“Crime Junkie” explores a new true crime case during each episode. They expertly delve deep into unsolved and solved cases of murder, missing people and more horrific crimes. The informative storytelling quickly made “Crime Junkie” one of the most listened-to podcasts.
“Dateline NBC”
- From: NBC News
- Host(s): Keith Morrison
NBC News takes listeners on a journey with a documentary podcast that uses the same in-depth investigation and interview methods but without the visual aspects of the television show.
“Morbid”
- From: Morbid Network, Wondery
- Host(s): Alaina Urquhart and Ash Kelley
If you enjoy mysterious and bizarre history, Morbid may be for you. Join an autopsy technician (Urquhart) and hairstylist (Kelley) as they explore intriguing true crime cases with an emphasis on heavy research. Throw in a bit of comedy and you have the complex, compelling and binge-worthy “Morbid” podcast.
“Murder in the Hollywood Hills”
- From: NBC News
- Host(s): Keith Morrison
When Kristi Johnson was approached by a man while shopping in Los Angeles, he told her she would be a great candidate for the next Bond movie. She got into her car and drove to Hollywood Hills, never to return.
The perpetrator eluded the penalty for his crimes for years. However, a group of women made it their mission to come together and make sure he paid for his crimes by finally being locked up.
“To Die For”
- From: iHeartPodcasts and Tenderfoot TV
- Host(s): Neil Strauss
What exactly is “sexpionage,” and how does it affect the spies involved? “To Die For” takes a hard look at the case of Aliia Roza, Russian intelligence and how “sex spies” are also victims.
“Status: Untraced”
- From: Tenderfoot TV & Audacy
- Host(s): Liam Luxon
“I should return mid-September or so. If I’m not back by then, don’t look for me.”
This is the cryptic message Justin Alexander Shetler left behind before disappearing. His last known location was Parvati Valley in the Himalayan Mountains, where he planned to experience a spiritual hike.
After Justin Alexander Shetler doesn’t return, most people think, murder. “Status: Untraced” dives into the life and disappearance of Justin Alexander Shetler, his message, and whether or not he was ever found.
“SERIALously”
- From: 10 to LIFE
- Host(s): Annie Elise
Annie Elise also hosts a true crime YouTube channel, “10 to LIFE,” with over one million viewers. She covers high-profile cases, unsolved cases, infamous criminals and more. With her casual technique, Annie Elise can pull the audience in while exploring more about what goes on in the minds of horrendous killers.
“MrBallen Podcast: Strange, Dark & Mysterious Stories”
- From: Ballen Studios
- Host(s): John B. Allen
John B. Allen enters the mystical and paranormal world, where many choose not to go. On “Strange, Dark, & Mysterious Stories,” he covers chilling and unsettling true crime cases, including unsolved mysteries, bizarre deaths and confusing mysteries.
“20/20”
- From: ABC News
- Host(s): David Muir and Amy Robach
ABC News has long pulled audiences in with their television show “20/20.” Now, you can listen to the same intriguing cases in podcast form. The podcast still covers high-profile stories with information that has been thoroughly investigated, interviews and unforgettable in-depth coverage.
“The Letter Season 2: Ripple Effect”
- From: Lemonada Media
- Host(s): Amy Donaldson
When someone is murdered, the families are left with questions. Is forgiveness ever reachable? “Ripple Effect” covers the 1982 case of two young fathers who were shot outside of a Utah restaurant.
Although it didn’t take the killer long to confess their crime, the confession leaves the families reeling with more questions and despair. This podcast examines the “ripple effect” and how each action affects the lives of many people.
“The Rise and Fall of Ruby Franke”
- From: Law&Crime, Wondery
- Host(s):Paula Barros
Ruby Franke was a momfluencer from Utah. This high-profile case has caught the attention and disturbed the world. “The Rise and Fall of Ruby Franke” explores how Ruby Franke became the popular mom influencer on YouTube known for her “tough love” approach. Then, it takes a look at how it was only a facade for abuse, torture and emotional distress towards her children.
This podcast also explores Ruby Franke’s and Jodi Hilderbrandt’s relationship and the unfolding of the case behind the scenes.
“Murder On My Mind”
- From: Law&Crime
- Host(s): Paula Barros
Jamell Demons is a rapper, also known as YNW Melly. When two of his best friends were murdered in 2018, he became a suspect. However, he always remained adamant that he did not commit these crimes.
His scandalous lyrics to his songs and criminal activities before 2018 painted a different story for many people. “Murder On My Mind” explores this case, its coverage, and the ensuing mistrials.
“Up and Vanished”
- From: Tenderfoot TV
- Host(s): Payne Lindsey
The “Up and Vanished” podcast spotlights a new cold case in the Arctic every season. The first season examines the disappearance of Tara Grinstead, a South Georgie teacher. The second season takes a look at the case of Kristal Resinger, a young mother. Lastly, the third season profoundly investigates the disappearance of Ashley Loring HeavyRunner, an indigenous woman. This podcast uses interviews, investigation and leads in order to gain a better understanding of each case. (If you are looking for less true crime and more self-help, read our list of the best podcasts to help with anxiety.)