What Are the Best Podcasts to Listen to Right Now?

According to recent industry data, there are now over 3 billion podcast downloads happening monthly, with the average listener subscribing to 7 different shows. With such an overwhelming array of options, finding what's truly worth your precious listening time can feel like searching for a needle in a digital haystack.

That's why we've compiled this definitive guide to the top 10 podcasts dominating the podcast charts right now. Whether you're a seasoned podcast junkie or just dipping your toes into the vast ocean of audio content, we've got you covered! 

How We Determined the Top 10 Podcasts Right Now

Before diving into our recommendations, you might wonder how we separated the audio wheat from the chaff. Our methodology combines multiple factors to ensure we're bringing you truly exceptional listening experiences. 

We've analyzed audience metrics and podcast charts from major platforms including Spotify for Creators and Apple Podcasts, examined listener ratings and reviews, and considered each show's cultural impact and relevance. We've also balanced our selections to represent the diverse podcast ecosystem, including both longstanding giants and promising newcomers that are rapidly gaining momentum. 

While "best" inevitably carries some subjectivity, our rankings prioritize shows with consistent quality, engaging hosts, thought-provoking content, and production excellence. We believe these elements create truly memorable podcast experiences that keep listeners coming back episode after episode.

Exploring the Most Popular Podcast Categories in 2025

The podcast medium has matured into distinct categories, each with devoted followings. True crime continues to dominate charts, with comedy, interview shows, news, and educational content rounding out the most popular genres.

Why True Crime Podcasts Continue to Captivate Listeners

The fascination with true crime podcasts shows no signs of waning in 2025. These podcasts tap into our innate curiosity about the darker side of human nature, combining investigative journalism with compelling storytelling. 

True crime podcasts have evolved significantly from their early days. The most successful shows now balance respectful treatment of victims with insightful analysis of cases. Shows like The Crime Junkie, a podcast hosted by Ashley Flowers and her co-host Brit Prawat maintain massive audiences by combining factual, well-researched content with engaging presentation that resonates with millions of listeners. 

The psychological appeal of true crime podcasts runs deep for podcast listeners – these shows allow us to explore frightening scenarios from the safety of our headphones, often providing resolution that real life sometimes lacks.

Many true crime podcast listeners also appreciate the community aspects, with fans coming together to discuss theories and details.

The Enduring Appeal of Comedy Podcasts in Today's World

In increasingly chaotic times, comedy podcasts provide much-needed relief and connection. The intimacy of the format creates a sense of hanging out with friends, even when you're listening alone. 

Comedy podcasts come in various flavors – from structured interview shows to freewheeling conversations between comedians. What sets apart the best comedy podcasts is authentic chemistry between hosts and the ability to create moments of genuine surprise and delight. 

Popular podcasts like The Joe Rogan Experience blend comedy with wide-ranging conversations, while programs like SmartLess the podcast hosted by actors Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett leverage the chemistry between their celebrity hosts to create moments of unexpected hilarity. These shows remind us of laughter's power to build connections across distances.

Interview Shows That Dominate the Charts

Long-form interview podcasts have revolutionized how we experience conversations. Free from the time constraints of traditional media, hosts can explore topics with depth and nuance rarely found elsewhere. 

What makes interview podcasts so compelling? It starts with hosts who ask insightful questions and genuinely listen to their guests. The best shows create space for surprising revelations and meaningful exchanges that feel authentic rather than rehearsed. 

The Joe Rogan Experience remains the gold standard in this category, pioneering conversations that regularly stretch beyond three hours and cover everything from comedy to consciousness exploration. The podcast's massive success has influenced countless others, demonstrating audience appetite for substantive discussions that traditional media often can't accommodate.

The Top 10 Podcasts You Should Be Listening to Right Now

Now for the main event! Here's our carefully curated list of the top 10 podcasts commanding attention in 2025. Many of these shows represent the pinnacle of audio excellence across various genres, and continuously show up as the most popular podcasts on the podcast charts.

1. The Joe Rogan Experience

Hosted by comedian and UFC commentator Joe Rogan, this podcast remains an undisputed titan in the industry. With an estimated 11 million listeners per episode, it continues to dominate charts across platforms. The show's appeal lies in its unfiltered, lengthy conversations with guests ranging from scientists and philosophers to comedians and controversial figures. 

What sets The Joe Rogan Experience apart is its willingness to explore topics deeply, often for three or four hours, creating space for nuanced discussion rarely found in mainstream media. While exclusively available on Spotify following a reported $200 million deal, the investment has clearly paid off for both parties as the show maintains its position as the number one podcast in the world.

Notable recent episodes include conversations with scientists exploring consciousness and interviews with political figures from across the spectrum. Whether you're seeking entertainment, education, or thought-provoking discussion, Rogan delivers consistently engaging content.

2. Crime Junkie

Hosted by Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat, Crime Junkie has mastered the true crime format with compelling storytelling and thoroughly researched cases. The show attracts nearly 6 million listeners per episode, cementing its position as one of the most popular true crime podcasts available. 

Crime Junkie distinguishes itself through its commitment to factual, respectful storytelling centered on victims' perspectives. The chemistry between the hosts creates an engaging listening experience as they explore cases ranging from unsolved mysteries to high-profile investigations.  

Since launching in 2017, the show has maintained its top-ranked position by consistently delivering high-quality episodes that respect both victims and audience intelligence. New episodes release weekly and are available across major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

3. The Daily

This news podcast from The New York Times, hosted by Michael Barbaro and Sabrina Tavernise, has transformed how millions start their day. The show focuses on one major news story per episode, delivering comprehensive coverage in approachable 20-minute segments. 

With over 3 billion total downloads, The Daily has mastered the art of making complex news digestible through expert interviews and narrative journalism. The show's structured format and morning release schedule (episodes are published by 6 a.m.) make it perfect for integrating into daily routines. 

Episodes feature interviews with New York Times journalists and subject experts, providing context and depth often missing from headline news. The Daily exemplifies how podcasting can enhance traditional journalism by creating space for nuanced storytelling.

4. This American Life

Hosted by Ira Glass, This American Life represents the gold standard of narrative nonfiction podcasting. The show explores a remarkable range of topics through compelling human stories that illuminate broader social and cultural themes.

Originally launched as a radio program in 1995, This American Life was one of the first shows to embrace the podcast format. Today, it reaches over 3.6 million podcast listeners weekly, with an additional 2.2 million tuning in via public radio stations. 

The show has earned numerous accolades, including Peabody Awards and a Pulitzer Prize – the first ever awarded to a radio program or podcast. Its influence on audio storytelling is immeasurable, having inspired countless producers and spawned successful spinoffs like Serial.

5. Call Her Daddy

Hosted by Alexandra Cooper, Call Her Daddy has evolved from its provocative beginnings to a cultural phenomenon discussing relationships, sexuality, and millennial experiences. The show ranks consistently among Spotify's most popular podcasts and continues to grow its predominantly young, female audience. 

Cooper blends personal anecdotes with advice in a format that feels like intimate conversations with a friend. The show frequently features celebrity guests, including high-profile names like Hailey Bieber and Miley Cyrus, often generating significant social media buzz. 

Call Her Daddy's influence extends beyond podcasting, with episodes frequently driving substantial increases in music streams for featured artists. Its success demonstrates the power of authentic voices speaking candidly to underserved audiences.

6. Dateline NBC

This podcast adaptation of the popular television show has found tremendous success in audio form. Executive producer David Corvo describes it as an extension for those who prefer audio over TV, while also rewarding dedicated fans with additional content. 

Covering gripping true crime stories, mysteries, and compelling legal cases, Dateline NBC has amassed over 775 million downloads since launching in 2019. The show leverages decades of investigative journalism experience to create immersive audio experiences. 

Episodes feature meticulous reporting and compelling narrative structure, making complex cases accessible to listeners. The show's success demonstrates how established media brands can successfully adapt to the podcast format while maintaining their core strengths.

7. Stuff You Should Know

Hosted by Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant, Stuff You Should Know transforms complex subjects into engaging, accessible conversations. The show has built a loyal global audience through its educational yet entertaining approach to topics ranging from historical events to scientific concepts.

After being acquired by iHeartMedia in 2018, SYSK has expanded its already impressive archive to over 1,500 episodes. The hosts' remarkable chemistry makes even the most complex subjects approachable and entertaining. 

Episodes cover an astonishing range of topics, from the history of pinball machines to the science behind black holes, all presented with the hosts' signature blend of humor and curiosity. Their success proves that learning doesn't have to be dry—it can be one of the most entertaining parts of your day.

8. The Ben Shapiro Show

Described as "the most fast-moving daily program in America," The Ben Shapiro Show delivers commentary on political and social issues from a conservative perspective. YouGov rated it as the 11th most popular podcast in the US, indicating its significant audience reach. 

The podcast hosted by Ben Shapiro has developed a reputation for his straightforward, often provocative style and rapid-fire delivery. The podcast releases daily episodes across major platforms including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify, with an archive containing over 1,800 episodes. 

The show's popularity demonstrates the significant audience demand for political commentary in the podcast space, particularly content that offers perspectives sometimes underrepresented in traditional media. 

9. Office Ladies

Hosted by Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey, who portrayed Pam Beesly and Angela Martin on the American version of The Office, this popular podcast offers fans unprecedented behind-the-scenes insights into one of television's most beloved comedies. 

Each episode features the hosts revisiting an episode of the show, sharing personal anecdotes, production details, and answering fan questions. This interactive element creates a strong connection with the audience and has helped consistently propel Office Ladies to a top 25 position on Apple Podcasts' ranking of comedy podcasts. 

The show's success demonstrates the enduring popularity of The Office and the appetite for content that extends beloved entertainment properties through new mediums. For fans of the show, it's like getting to hang out with cast members while gaining deeper appreciation for the creative process.

10. SmartLess

Hosted by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett, SmartLess brings a unique twist to the interview format. In each episode, one host surprises the others with an unannounced guest, creating genuine reactions and unpredictable conversations. 

All three hosts are accomplished actors and comedians, bringing their professional chemistry and humor to interactions with guests from entertainment, politics, science, and beyond. The surprise element creates fresh energy in each episode and prevents conversations from feeling rehearsed. 

The show's popularity has grown steadily since its launch, attracting a loyal audience drawn to its combination of celebrity access and authentic conversation. Available on both Spotify and Apple Podcasts, SmartLess offers a refreshing take on the celebrity interview format.

Beyond the Top 10: Rising Stars in Podcasting

While our top 10 represents the current podcast royalty, several emerging shows continue to rapidly gain momentum and could soon break into these coveted ranks. 

Shows like Huberman Lab, which explains complex neuroscience in accessible terms, and The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett, featuring vulnerable conversations with business leaders, demonstrate growing audience interest in substantive content that balances education with entertainment. 

We're also seeing innovation in podcast format and approach. Podcasts like Stuff You Should Know are expanding into video platforms while maintaining audio excellence, reaching new audiences through multimedia approaches. Meanwhile, niche shows addressing specific interests continue to build passionate communities of listeners.

Could YOU Be The Next Podcast Sensation?

While listening to the top podcasts can provide hours of entertainment and knowledge, have you considered that the best podcast might be waiting for you to create it? Your unique voice and perspective could be exactly what millions of listeners are searching for in today's crowded audio landscape. 

Starting your own podcast has never been more accessible, but turning raw recordings into polished, professional content takes time – unless you have the right tools. This is where Castmagic transforms the podcast creation process. With its AI-powered platform, you can instantly convert your audio into transcripts, show notes, social media posts, and dozens of other content formats that help extend your podcast's reach. 

The most successful podcasts featured in our list all share one thing: consistent, high-quality content across multiple channels. Castmagic makes this level of production possible for creators of all sizes, handling the tedious post-production work so you can focus on what matters – creating compelling content that connects with your audience. 

Ready to launch the next podcast everyone will be talking about? Try Castmagic free today and turn your audio into growth-driving content with just a few clicks.