Top 18 Best Podcasts by Women to Listen To

In a world where voices matter, women podcasters are creating some of the most compelling, insightful, and entertaining audio content available today. Podcasting has evolved dramatically over the past few years, with female hosts breaking barriers and bringing fresh perspectives to our earbuds.

According to recent industry data, 50% of the top ten highest-rated podcasts are hosted by women—a figure that speaks volumes about the growing influence of female voices in the audio space! 

We've spent countless hours listening, researching, and curating this definitive guide to the best podcasts by women across various genres. Whether you're looking for true crime that keeps you on the edge of your seat, unfiltered conversations about topics that matter, or expert advice to improve your life, we've got you covered. 

Join us as we dive into the world of women-hosted podcasts that are revolutionizing the medium of audio and giving voice to perspectives that deserve to be heard.

Related: Learn how to start a podcast.

Why Women-Hosted Podcasts Are Changing the Game

The rise of women in podcasting isn't just changing who we listen to—it's transforming what we listen to and how we connect with audio content. Female podcast hosts bring unique perspectives to topics ranging from true crime to business strategy, often approaching subjects with a level of empathy, nuance, and lived experience that creates a different kind of listening experience. 

What makes podcasts by women so compelling is their ability to create intimate connections with listeners. There's something powerful about hearing issues discussed from a female perspective, especially on topics where women's voices have traditionally been underrepresented. These hosts aren't just talking “at” their audience—they're building communities. 

Research shows that listeners actually prefer female voices, with men being particularly likely to turn off podcasts with male hosts. In fact, 71% of men surveyed said they were likely to stop listening to a podcast based on the host's voice, with more than half pointing to male voices as the ones most likely to make them tune out. This surprising statistic highlights just how engaging and appealing female-hosted shows have become across all demographics. 

For brands and advertisers, women-hosted podcasts offer a unique opportunity to connect with engaged listeners. Nearly half of female listeners report having a more favorable view of brands that advertise on women-led podcasts, and 41% say they're more likely to consider purchasing from those brands. These numbers reflect the authentic connection and trust that female podcast hosts establish with their audiences.

Also see: Podcast Industry Statistics You Need to Know to Grow Your Audience

Compelling Storytelling: Narrative Podcasts That Keep You Hooked

When it comes to weaving a narrative that captures your attention from the first minute to the last, female podcast hosts are creating some of the most engaging storytelling experiences in the medium. These narrative-driven podcasts showcase the power of a woman's perspective in bringing stories to life. 

Crime Junkie, hosted by Ashley Flowers with Brit Prawat, consistently ranks as the #1 podcast among women listeners in the U.S., and for good reason. Their approach to true crime storytelling combines meticulous research with compassionate narration that centers victims' stories rather than glorifying perpetrators.  

Each episode feels like a conversation with friends who share your fascination with solving mysteries. Their signature "Be weird, be rude, stay alive" sign-off has become a mantra for safety-conscious listeners everywhere. 

For those who love history told through a female lens, Encyclopedia Womannica delivers daily 5-10 minute episodes about remarkable women who shaped our world but might be missing from traditional history books.  

What makes this podcast special is how it manages to be both educational and emotionally resonant, bringing to life the achievements of women whose stories deserve wider recognition. Each episode is densely packed with information yet delivered in an accessible, engaging style that makes it easy to incorporate into your daily routine. 

Another standout in the storytelling category is Where Are You Going? hosted by Catherine Carr. Named as one of the "Best Podcasts of the Year 2023" by multiple publications, this uniquely formatted show features Carr interrupting ordinary people as they go about their lives and simply asking them where they're headed.  

What unfolds are conversations that range from hilariously mundane to profoundly moving, creating an intimate portrait of humanity that's utterly captivating. The beauty of this podcast lies in its simplicity and unpredictability—you truly never know what story will emerge next.

Informative and Educational: Learning from Expert Women

Female experts are dominating the educational podcast landscape, breaking down complex topics with clarity, depth, and relatability. These hosts combine their professional expertise with engaging delivery to make learning a pleasure rather than a chore. 

The Food Medic Podcast, hosted by Dr. Hazel Wallace, exemplifies how medical expertise can be translated into accessible and practical information. As both a medical doctor and personal trainer, Dr. Wallace brings a holistic perspective to health topics, interviewing leading experts who share evidence-based advice on nutrition, exercise, and overall wellbeing. What sets this podcast apart is how it cuts through the noise of health misinformation online, providing listeners with reliable information they can actually use in their daily lives. 

For those interested in economics through a female lens, The Hidden Economics of Remarkable Women (HERO) hosted by Reena Ninan explores how women drive economic change globally. This podcast takes what might seem like dry economic concepts and transforms them into compelling human stories.

Each episode highlights women creating positive economic impacts in their communities, from entrepreneurs in developing nations to policy changers in corporate settings. What makes HERO special is its ability to connect personal stories with broader economic principles, showing how individual women's actions ripple outward to create systemic change. 

In the tech space, Elevate Women In Tech with Kellie Kwarteng provides inspiration and practical advice for women navigating the male-dominated technology industry. Featuring interviews with successful women in various tech roles, from coding to leadership, this podcast addresses both the challenges and opportunities for female technologists.

What listeners especially appreciate is the actionable career advice combined with honest discussions about obstacles women face in the industry, creating a roadmap for success that acknowledges real-world barriers while providing strategies to overcome them.

Breaking Taboos: Sex and Relationship Podcasts By Empowered Women

Some of the most groundbreaking podcasts by women tackle subjects that have historically been considered taboo, creating spaces for open, honest, and empowering conversations about sex, relationships, and intimacy. These hosts are changing the landscape of what can be discussed publicly, normalizing important conversations that benefit listeners of all genders. 

Sex With Emily, hosted by Dr. Emily Morse, stands out as a pioneer in the sex podcast genre. With her background as a sex educator and doctor of human sexuality, Dr. Morse tackles everything from fantasies to relationship red flags with a refreshing blend of expertise and approachability. What makes this podcast exceptional is how it balances educational content with entertainment, making even the most sensitive topics accessible and entertaining. The show's question-and-answer format allows listeners to hear their own concerns addressed directly, creating an intimate connection between host and audience. 

Call Her Daddy, hosted by Alex Cooper, has evolved from its provocative beginnings into a cultural phenomenon that dominates the charts. While still tackling sex and relationships with unfiltered honesty, Cooper has expanded the show to include broader discussions about female empowerment, mental health, and navigating modern life as a young woman.

Each episode combines personal anecdotes with guest interviews, creating a show that feels like an extended conversation with your most outspoken friend. What keeps listeners coming back is Cooper's willingness to share her own experiences and vulnerabilities alongside her opinions, creating an authentic connection that resonates particularly with millennial and Gen Z women. 

For those seeking a more therapeutic approach to relationship discussions, The Period Feels by August offers unfiltered conversations about menstruation, sexual health, and relationships. What makes this podcast unique is how it ties these intimate topics to broader discussions about entrepreneurship, as the hosts are simultaneously building their sustainable period care brand. This combination of personal health topics with business insights creates a refreshingly holistic approach to female empowerment, recognizing that women's bodies and professional lives are interconnected rather than separate spheres.

Wellness and Mental Health: Nurturing Mind and Body

Female podcast hosts are leading the conversation around wellness and mental health, creating safe spaces for discussions about emotional wellbeing, self-care, and personal growth. These podcasts offer not just information but genuine support and community for listeners navigating their own health journeys. 

The Calmer You Podcast, hosted by Chloe Brotheridge, consistently ranks as a top podcast for women dealing with anxiety and stress. As a hypnotherapist and anxiety expert, Brotheridge brings professional expertise to conversations about healing anxiety, quieting the inner critic, and building confidence.

What makes this podcast special is its practical approach—each episode provides actionable tools listeners can immediately implement in their lives. From breathing techniques to cognitive reframing strategies, the focus is always on accessible methods for becoming "your calmest, happiest self."

Therapy for Black Girls, hosted by Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, fills a crucial gap in the mental health podcast landscape by focusing specifically on the psychological needs of Black women and girls. Each episode combines clinical expertise with cultural sensitivity, addressing topics like relationship dynamics, workplace stress, and self-image through a lens that acknowledges the unique experiences of Black women.

The podcast's success lies in Dr. Bradford's ability to translate complex psychological concepts into relatable, practical advice while creating a sense of community around mental health discussions that have too often excluded diverse voices. 

Unlocking Us with Brené Brown brings the wisdom of the renowned researcher and author to the podcast format, exploring vulnerability, courage, and human connection through thoughtful interviews and solo episodes. What distinguishes Brown's podcast is its intellectual depth combined with emotional resonance—discussions are grounded in research but never feel academic or detached. Each episode takes listeners on a journey through the "messiness of being human," with Brown's warm, authentic hosting style creating a space where difficult topics can be explored with both rigor and compassion. 

Business and Career: Professional Development from Female Leaders

Women business leaders are sharing their expertise through podcasts that offer invaluable insights into entrepreneurship, career development, and leadership. These shows provide mentorship and guidance through audio, helping listeners navigate professional challenges with wisdom from those who've broken through barriers. 

Being Boss, recommended by Forbes as one of the best podcasts for working women, explores the mindsets and tactics needed to build successful creative businesses. Host Emily Thompson dives into the realities of entrepreneurship, covering everything from practical business strategies to the emotional side of being your own boss.

What makes this podcast particularly valuable is its focus on both the tactical and psychological aspects of business ownership, acknowledging that success requires both practical skills and the right mindset. 

Financial Feminist by Her First 100k takes a refreshingly direct approach to personal finance, with host Tori Dunlap guiding listeners through making, saving, and investing money through a feminist lens. Each episode combines financial education with discussions about the systemic barriers women face in building wealth.

What sets this podcast apart is how it connects individual financial empowerment with broader social change, making the case that women's financial independence is a key component of gender equality. 

Big Careers, Small Children bridges a crucial gap for professional parents, particularly mothers, trying to balance ambitious careers with family life. Host Verena Hefti MBE facilitates honest conversations with senior leaders about their experiences juggling professional advancement with parenting responsibilities.

What makes this podcast essential listening is its refusal to sugarcoat the challenges while still providing practical strategies and inspiration for those determined to maintain both a meaningful career and present parenthood.

Comedy and Culture: Laughter and Insight from Female Perspectives

Women podcasters are redefining comedy and cultural commentary, bringing fresh perspectives to discussions of entertainment, society, and everyday life. These shows blend humor with insight, creating content that entertains while also challenging listeners to think differently about the world around them.

The Guilty Feminist, hosted by Deborah Frances-White, has built a dedicated following through its exploration of the contradictions and insecurities of modern feminism. Each episode begins with the now-iconic format "I'm a feminist, but..." followed by confessions that highlight the gap between feminist ideals and everyday realities.

What makes this podcast both hilarious and profound is how it embraces these contradictions rather than glossing over them, creating a space where listeners can acknowledge their own imperfections while still striving for progress. Live recordings with audience participation add an electric energy to discussions that range from serious political issues to the absurdities of daily life. 

My Favorite Murder, hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, has built an entire community (affectionately called "Murderinos") around their unique blend of true crime and comedy. Their conversational style and tangential discussions create an intimate atmosphere that feels like hanging out with friends who share your fascination with the macabre.

What distinguishes this podcast is how it balances humor with respect for victims, using comedy not to trivialize tragic events but as a coping mechanism for processing the darker aspects of human behavior. 

Unladylike, hosted by Cristen Conger and Caroline Ervin, investigates what happens when women break the rules—whether social, cultural, or professional.

Each episode tackles a specific question about challenging norms, backed by thorough research and engaging storytelling. What makes this podcast particularly compelling is how it combines factual information with personal narratives, showing both the societal context for "unladylike" behavior and the lived experiences of women who defy expectations.

The hosts' chemistry and willingness to ask uncomfortable questions create episodes that are both educational and entertaining.

Finding Your Perfect Podcast Match

With so many incredible podcasts by women available across different podcast hosting platforms, finding your next favorite show might seem overwhelming. We recommend starting with one or two from our list that align with your current interests, then allowing yourself to explore related shows as your podcast journey evolves. 

Most of these podcasts are available on all major podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube Podcasts. Many also have their own websites with additional content, show notes, and community features that enhance the listening experience. For the best experience, try listening to a few episodes of each show that catches your interest—podcast chemistry often takes a few episodes to fully appreciate. 

Remember that supporting these women-hosted podcasts goes beyond just listening. Leaving ratings and reviews helps these shows reach wider audiences, while sharing episodes on social media or discussing them with friends creates more visibility for female voices in the podcasting space. Many of these creators also offer premium subscriptions or merchandise that provide more direct financial support for their work.

The Future Sounds Female: Why These Podcasts Matter

To quickly recap, here's our list of the top podcasts by women:

1. Crime Junkie - Hosted by Ashley Flowers with Brit Prawat
2. Encyclopedia Womannica - Daily episodes about remarkable women in history
3. Where Are You Going? - Hosted by Catherine Carr (Named one of the "Best Podcasts of the Year 2023")
4. The Food Medic - Hosted by Dr. Hazel Wallace
5. The Hidden Economics of Remarkable Women (HERO) - Hosted by Reena Ninan
6. Elevate Women In Tech - Hosted by Kellie Kwarteng
7. Sex With Emily - Hosted by Dr. Emily Morse
8. Call Her Daddy - Hosted by Alex Cooper
9. The Period Feels - By August
10. The Calmer You Podcast - Hosted by Chloe Brotheridge
11. Therapy for Black Girls - Hosted by Dr. Joy Harden Bradford
12. Unlocking Us - Hosted by Brené Brown
13. Being Boss - Hosted by Emily Thompson
14. Financial Feminist - By Her First 100k, hosted by Tori Dunlap
15. Big Careers, Small Children - Hosted by Verena Hefti MBE
16. The Guilty Feminist - Hosted by Deborah Frances-White
17. My Favorite Murder - Hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark
18. Unladylike - Hosted by Cristen Conger and Caroline Ervin

These podcasts span various genres including true crime, storytelling, health, economics, technology, sex and relationships, wellness, business, and comedy.

The best podcasts by women aren't just changing what we listen to—they're changing how we understand ourselves and the world around us. By amplifying diverse female voices and perspectives, these shows are filling crucial gaps in our media landscape and creating communities where important conversations can flourish. 

From intimate discussions about sex and relationships to groundbreaking reporting on social issues, from business advice that acknowledges women's realities to comedic takes that make us laugh while making us think—these podcasts represent the rich variety of female experience and expertise. 

As we look to the future of podcasting, one thing is clear: women's voices are not just part of the conversation—they're leading it. By supporting these creators and sharing their work, we're contributing to a media ecosystem where diverse perspectives are valued and heard. 

So update your podcast subscriptions, plug in your headphones, and discover the wisdom, humor, and insight that these extraordinary women have to share. Your commute, workout, or household chores will never be the same once you've invited these voices into your daily routine. Which podcast will you listen to first?

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