What Are the Best Podcasts to Listen to in 2025?

If you're anything like us, you love podcasts. You might be wondering, what are the best podcasts to listen to in 2025? We scoured blog posts, Apple Podcasts charts, Spotify for Creators and more, and found several we want to share with you. 

Let’s cut through the noise and highlight some of the absolute best podcasts of 2025.

Sound good? Great! Let’s dive in!

How We Selected the Best Podcasts of 2025

Before diving into our recommendations, it's worth explaining how we've curated this list of the best podcasts 2025 has to offer. Our selection process combined quantitative metrics with qualitative assessment, considering factors such as production quality, content relevance, storytelling craft, and audience engagement. 

We've analyzed podcast listener statistics, industry awards, and expert opinions while also conducting our own critical evaluations. We also made a conscious effort to balance our selections between established podcast giants that continue to deliver exceptional content and emerging shows that bring fresh perspectives to the audio landscape. 

Diversity has been a priority in our curation process – not just in terms of the voices behind the microphone, but also in the range of topics, formats, and approaches represented. Our goal is to showcase podcasts that not only entertain but also inform, challenge, and inspire. 

What separates truly great podcasts from the merely good ones often comes down to that special alchemy of compelling hosts, innovative production, and consistent quality. The best podcasts create intimate connections with their audiences, making listeners feel like they're part of an exclusive conversation or being transported to another world entirely. These are the shows we've prioritized – podcasts that don't just fill time but enrich it. 

Must-Listen General Interest Podcasts Dominating 2025

The general interest category encompasses podcasts that appeal to broad audiences through compelling interviews, fascinating stories, and engaging conversations.

Among the standouts in 2025 is "The Rest Is Football," featuring Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer, and Micah Richards – a show that transcends its sports podcast focus with relaxed, insightful banter that appeals even to casual football fans.

Similarly, "Conan O'Brien Needs A Friend" continues its impressive run, with the comedian and veteran talk show host's warm, self-deprecating humor drawing out fascinating conversations from an eclectic mix of guests.

"This American Life" remains the gold standard for narrative storytelling in podcast form, with Ira Glass and team crafting meticulously researched, beautifully produced audio experiences that illuminate the extraordinary aspects of ordinary life. Each episode feels like a miniature audio documentary, blending journalism with personal narratives in a way that remains unmatched in the podcasting world. The show's influence can be seen throughout the podcast industry, with many of today's top creators citing it as a primary inspiration.

The true crime genre continues to captivate listeners, with "Bone Valley" standing out for its painstaking research and thoughtful approach to a wrongful conviction case. Similarly, "Sweet Bobby" explores the dark side of online relationships through the lens of a decade-long catfishing scheme, demonstrating how the best podcasts in this genre combine compelling narratives with deeper explorations of human psychology and social issues.

The Enduring Appeal of The Adam Buxton Podcast and Similar Conversational Shows

When discussing the best podcasts in 2025, we simply can't overlook the enduring impact of The Adam Buxton Podcast. Since its inception, Adam Buxton has pioneered the art of the conversational podcast, blending humor, insight, and genuine curiosity in a way that feels both effortless and distinctly personal. In 2025, Buxton continues to refine his craft, bringing his signature warmth and wit to interviews with everyone from major celebrities to fascinating unknowns.

What makes The Adam Buxton Podcast special is its deceptive simplicity – conversations that feel casual but are underpinned by thoughtful research and genuine interest in the guest. Buxton's skill lies in creating a space where guests feel comfortable enough to offer insights they might not share elsewhere. His introductions, often featuring jingles and humorous asides, have become beloved by listeners, as have his "ramble chats" recorded while walking his dog in the Norfolk countryside.

The current iteration of the podcast has evolved to include more diverse voices and topics, but the core appeal remains consistent: authentic, often funny, occasionally profound conversations that make the listener feel like they're eavesdropping on two friends chatting.

Fans of Buxton's approach might also enjoy "Grounded with Louis Theroux," "How to Fail with Elizabeth Day," and "The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett" – all conversational podcasts that prioritize genuine connection over rigid structure.

Related: Best Podcast Apps to Listen and Watch Podcasts

Uncovering the Best History Podcasts for Every Era Enthusiast

History podcasts have experienced remarkable growth over the last few years, evolving from niche offerings to some of the most popular podcasts in the industry. The best history podcasts of 2025 skillfully balance educational content with compelling storytelling, making the past feel immediate and relevant to contemporary listeners.

This genre features deep dives into historical subjects without the constraints of traditional broadcast schedules.

"Empire" by historian William Dalrymple and author Anita Anand stands out as a masterclass in accessible yet substantive historical exploration. Their first season, focusing on the British in India, blends meticulous research with vivid storytelling to bring complex historical periods to life.

Similarly, "The Rest is History" with Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook offers fresh perspectives on historical events through dynamic conversation between two knowledgeable historians who aren't afraid to disagree or highlight the strange and surprising aspects of the past.

For those interested in American history, "Scattered" provides a deeply personal approach, with comedian Chris Garcia exploring his late father's experiences as a Cuban refugee who built a life in the US after surviving Castro's labor camps.

The show’s blend of family history and broader political context exemplifies how the best history podcasts weave personal narratives into larger historical tapestries. As a result, these shows thrive on creating emotional connections that make the past feel immediate and relevant.

Narrative-Driven History Podcasts That Bring the Past to Life

The most compelling history podcasts of 2025 are those that harness the power of narrative to transport listeners through time. "Revolutions" with Mike Duncan continues to set the standard, with its meticulously researched exploration of world-changing political upheavals from the English Civil War to the Russian Revolution. Duncan's ability to distill complex historical events into clear, engaging narratives without oversimplification has influenced countless history podcasters.

"Noble Blood" offers a different approach to historical storytelling, with author Dana Schwartz examining the often dysfunctional and sometimes murderous world of royal families throughout history. Each episode explores a different historical figure or event, from well-known monarchs to obscure aristocratic scandals, all unified by Schwartz's atmospheric storytelling and keen eye for the human drama behind historical events.

"The Memory Palace" represents perhaps the most artistic approach to historical podcasting, with Nate DiMeo crafting poetic, emotionally resonant vignettes about often overlooked moments from the past. With episodes rarely exceeding 15 minutes, DiMeo demonstrates how powerful historical storytelling doesn't necessarily require length – just a skilled narrator with a gift for evocative language and a knack for finding the universal in the specific.

Academic History Podcasts That Balance Scholarship with Accessibility

For listeners seeking more scholarly approaches to history, 2025 offers an impressive array of podcasts that maintain academic rigor while remaining accessible to general audiences. "Things Fell Apart" hosted by Jon Ronson explores the origins of contemporary culture wars with meticulous research and empathetic interviewing, tracing polarizing issues back to their often-surprising beginnings. Ronson's approach demonstrates how historical context can illuminate present-day conflicts without oversimplifying complex social dynamics.

"You Must Remember This" continues to set the standard for deep historical research in podcast form, with creator and host Karina Longworth investigating Hollywood myths and legends with scholarly thoroughness and narrative flair. Her series on topics like "Dead Blondes" and "Charles Manson's Hollywood" combine entertainment history with broader cultural analysis, demonstrating how popular culture both reflects and shapes its era.

For those interested in ancient history, "The History of Rome" and its spiritual successor "Revolutions" remain gold standards in the genre, with host Mike Duncan's clear explanations and dry humor making complex historical periods accessible without sacrificing depth. These shows demonstrate how even distant history can be made relevant and engaging through skilled narration and thoughtful analysis of historical patterns that continue to resonate today.

Genre-Specific Best Podcasts Worth Streaming in 2025

As podcasting has matured, genre specialization has become increasingly sophisticated, with 2025 offering outstanding options across every conceivable interest area. 

True Crime - Best Podcasts

In true crime, "Chameleon: Hollywood Con Queen" stands out for tackling a fascinating scam without resorting to the sensationalism that sometimes plagues the genre. Its investigation of a complex con targeting Hollywood professionals demonstrates how true crime podcasting has evolved beyond murder cases to explore a wider range of criminal behavior.

Best Science and Technology Podcasts

Science and technology enthusiasts are well-served by "Ologies" with Alie Ward, which transforms potentially dry scientific topics into accessible, often humorous explorations through interviews with passionate experts. Similarly, "Hidden Brain" with Shankar Vedantam continues to excel at translating complex psychological and sociological research into compelling stories about human behavior that remain with listeners long after each episode ends.

Comedy - Best Podcast

Comedy podcasts continue to thrive, with "My Therapist Ghosted Me" featuring Joanne McNally and Vogue Williams offering irreverent, honest conversations that feel like eavesdropping on brilliantly funny friends.

Best Business Podcasts

For business content, "How I Built This" with Guy Raz maintains its position as the premier podcast for entrepreneurial insights, with its combination of practical business lessons and inspirational founder stories providing both education and motivation.

Fiction Podcasts Redefining Audio Storytelling

Fiction podcasts have undergone a remarkable evolution, with 2025 representing a golden age for audio drama. "The Magnus Archives" has set a new standard for horror storytelling, with its intricate plot, atmospheric sound design, and masterful performance by Jonathan Sims creating an immersive experience that rivals visual media. Similarly, "Darkest Night" pushes the boundaries of audio horror with binaural recording techniques that create a three-dimensional sonic experience, particularly when listened to with headphones.

For science fiction fans, "We Fix Space Junk" offers a darkly comic vision of a corporate-dominated future, while "Alien: Out of the Shadows" demonstrates how established franchises can be successfully adapted to the audio medium with thoughtful sound design and strong performances. What unites the best fiction podcasts of 2025 is their understanding that audio drama isn't just radio with better technology – it's a distinct medium with its own strengths and techniques.

The accessibility of podcast production has democratized fiction creation, resulting in groundbreaking work from creators who might never have found an outlet in traditional publishing or broadcasting. Shows like "The Bright Sessions," which follows therapy sessions for people with supernatural abilities, demonstrate how the podcast format can support high-concept premises and long-form storytelling that might be difficult to sustain in other media.

News and Current Affairs Podcasts for the Informed Listener

Quality news podcasts have become essential tools for staying informed. "The Daily" from The New York Times continues to excel with its deep dives into single topics, while "Power Lines: From Ukraine to the World" offers crucial context on global conflicts through expert interviews and on-the-ground reporting.

These shows demonstrate how the best news podcasts go beyond headlines to provide context and analysis that helps listeners make sense of complex events.

Political podcasts like "The MeidasTouch Podcast" offer engaged commentary on current events, while "The Run-Through with Vogue" provides insightful analysis of fashion and culture for those seeking lighter but still substantive news content. What unites these diverse shows is their commitment to thoughtful analysis and clear explanations that help listeners navigate increasingly complex information.

For those seeking a more global perspective, many listeners recommend BBC's "Global News Podcast" for its comprehensive international coverage and "The Intelligence" from The Economist for its concise, insightful analysis of world events. These shows help listeners break out of national news bubbles to understand how events are interconnected across borders – an increasingly valuable perspective in our globalized world.

Maximizing Your Podcast Experience: How to Listen in 2025

The technology for consuming podcasts has evolved dramatically, offering listeners more control and better experiences than ever before. The major platforms – Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube Podcasts, and others – have all improved their discovery algorithms, making it easier to find shows aligned with your interests. Meanwhile, dedicated podcast apps like Pocket Casts and Overcast continue to innovate with features like silence trimming, voice boost, and variable speed playback that enhance the listening experience.

Subscription models have become more prevalent in the podcast ecosystem, with many top shows offering ad-free versions, bonus content, and early access through platforms like Wondery+, Pushkin Plus, or directly through creator-supported platforms like Patreon. While plenty of excellent free content remains available, these subscription services can enhance the experience for devoted podcast fans who want to support their favorite creators.

Organization is key to maintaining a satisfying podcast library. We recommend categorizing your subscriptions by genre or listening context (workout podcasts, commute podcasts, bedtime podcasts, etc.) to ensure you always have appropriate content ready. Many dedicated podcast apps allow you to create custom playlists or filters that automatically sort new episodes according to your preferences, making it easier to manage an extensive podcast diet.

Podcast Trends Defining the Audio Landscape in 2025

Several key trends are shaping the podcast landscape in 2025. The rise of video podcasts has been particularly significant, with shows like "The Diary of a CEO" and "The Joe Rogan Experience" leveraging visual elements to expand their reach and create additional content for platforms like YouTube. This visual dimension complements audio, allowing creators to connect with audiences across multiple platforms.

AI-driven personalization has also transformed podcast discovery, with recommendation algorithms becoming increasingly sophisticated at suggesting content aligned with listener preferences. This has made it easier for niche shows to find their audiences. Meanwhile, the growth of interactive features – from live episode recordings to Q&A segments incorporating listener questions – has strengthened the connection between creators and audiences.

The business models underpinning podcasting continue to evolve, with dynamic ad insertion, exclusive platform deals, and branded content creating more sustainable revenue streams for creators. This financial stability has allowed for increased investment in production quality and investigative journalism, resulting in more ambitious and impactful content across the medium.

The Best Tool for Podcast Creators in 2025: Maximizing Your Audio Content

As we explore the best podcasts of 2025, it's worth highlighting the innovative tool helping creators streamline their production workflow and expand their reach across platforms.

Castmagic: One Recording, Multiple Content Pieces

Castmagic has emerged as an in-demand tool for podcast creators across all niches. This all-in-one transcription and AI-content platform transforms a single audio file into dozens of content assets, allowing podcasters to multiply their impact without multiplying their workload.

The platform's streamlined process works in four steps:

1. Import - Upload audio files or import from YouTube, RSS feeds, or other sources
2. Transcribe - Generate accurate transcripts with speaker identification
3. Transform - Use AI to create various content formats from the transcription
4. Publish - Export ready-to-use content for different platforms

For creators of genre-specific podcasts like history, science, business, etc... Castmagic offers an efficient way to repurpose episodes into:

• Show notes with timestamps
• Social media posts
• Email newsletters
• Blog articles
• Quote collections
• Twitter/X threads
• Video scripts

What makes this platform particularly valuable is its ability to maintain each creator's unique voice and style while automating the time-consuming aspects of content distribution. Customizable prompts allow podcasters to tailor outputs to their specific audience and brand.

For podcast networks managing multiple shows, Castmagic's team collaboration features enable consistent content creation across different programs while preserving each show's distinct identity.

Learn more about Castmagic.

Finding Your Audio Happy Place: Curating Your Perfect Podcast Library for 2025

Creating a truly satisfying podcast rotation requires balancing different types of content to suit various moods and contexts. We recommend combining informative shows that expand your knowledge, entertaining content that provides a mental break, and challenging material that pushes your thinking in new directions.

When evaluating new podcasts, give shows at least two or three episodes before deciding whether to subscribe – many podcasts take time to establish their rhythm and reveal their full potential. Pay attention to production quality and host chemistry, but also consider whether the content genuinely interests you or simply feels like something you "should" be listening to. The best podcast for you is one that you genuinely look forward to, not one that feels like an obligation. 

Remember – it's perfectly acceptable to skip episodes that don't interest you or to abandon shows that no longer bring you joy. Think of your podcast library as a curated collection that evolves with your interests and needs.

Your Next Favorite Episode Awaits: Final Thoughts on the Best Podcasts of 2025

As we've explored throughout this article, the podcasts of 2025 offer unprecedented quality, diversity, and accessibility. From the conversational brilliance of The Adam Buxton Podcast to the historical insights of the best history podcasts like "Empire" and "The Rest is History," there's truly something for every listener in this golden age of audio storytelling. The evolution of the medium continues to accelerate, with innovations in format, technology, and business models creating opportunities for both creators and audiences.

What makes the best podcasts of 2025 special isn't just their professional production or famous hosts – it's their ability to create intimate connections with listeners. Whether you're laughing along with a comedy podcast, being transported by a fiction series, or gaining new insights from an interview show, great podcasts create uniquely personal experiences that can transform otherwise mundane moments into opportunities for entertainment, education, and reflection.

We encourage you to explore beyond your usual listening habits and sample podcasts from unfamiliar genres or perspectives. The recommendations we've shared represent just a fraction of the outstanding content available, and some of the most rewarding listening experiences come from unexpected discoveries.

Download a few episodes from shows mentioned in this guide, press play during your next commute or workout, and prepare to be entertained, informed, and perhaps even transformed by the best podcasts 2025 has to offer!

And, if you're a podcaster that wants to improve your podcast workflow, consider trying Castmagic. You can get started here for free!