Top 10 Creepiest True Crime Podcasts You Can’t Miss

There’s a unique thrill that comes with diving into the world of podcasts, a medium that fosters an almost cult-like following. This devotion intensifies when you enter the realm of true crime. Merge these two, and you’ve got a recipe for instant hits. For years, these hits have been piling up, and now, the landscape of true crime podcasts is vast and incredibly popular.

If you have a taste for the unsettling and the unexplained, hundreds of major true crime podcasts await, each offering a different flavor. Some meticulously narrate real events as nonfiction stories, others explore the twisted minds of killers, and some even inject humor to lighten the heavy subject matter.

However you prefer your dose of dread, it’s out there. This list presents ten prime sources to satisfy your morbid curiosity—ten of the eeriest and most compelling podcasts for dedicated true crime enthusiasts.

10Redhanded

Trying to pinpoint what makes Redhanded and its hosts, Hannah Maguire and Suruthi Bala, such a fantastic listening experience is tough. If forced to choose one word, it would be “charm.” This podcast masterfully balances the grim with the lighthearted.

Redhanded has cultivated a significant fanbase, affectionately known as “Spooky B*tches.” Listeners return not only for the chilling accounts of murder but also for the sharp banter, wit, and humor that Maguire and Bala bring. The unique and inviting charm of Redhanded makes the often-disturbing content more approachable, creating a distinctly engaging listen.

9Morbid: A True Crime Podcast

Take a moment to look up the sheer volume of reviews for Morbid: A True Crime Podcast on platforms like Apple Podcasts and note how many boast five stars. For a podcast that’s relatively young, its success is truly remarkable.

Hosted by Alaina Urquhart, an autopsy technician, and Ashleigh Kelley, a hairdresser, Morbid offers a unique blend of tones. This pairing hints at the show’s style: a mix of casual, friendly chat and detailed, sometimes gory, explorations of true crime cases. Morbid is an easy listen and more accessible than many in the genre, making it an ideal entry point for newcomers to true crime podcasts.

8And That’s Why We Drink

If you’re searching for a podcast that offers a bit of everything, And That’s Why We Drink is an excellent pick. This series is a delightful mix of comedy and serious storytelling, equally divided between the paranormal and true crime. Each episode typically features a paranormal tale followed by a true crime story, delivering on their promise of covering both the “eerie and theory.”

Hosts Christine Schiefer and Em Schulz often tie into the podcast’s title by discussing reasons why the unsettling cases drive them to drink. For those new to true crime podcasts and eager to sample the genre’s variety, And That’s Why We Drink provides a perfect starting point.

7Serial

It’s simply impossible to curate a list of top true crime podcasts without mentioning the one that arguably catapulted the genre into the mainstream: Serial. Hosted by Sarah Koenig, Serial launched in 2014 and immediately garnered widespread acclaim from both listeners and critics. Its first season became a cultural phenomenon, even earning a prestigious Peabody Award.

One could easily argue that Serial played a pivotal role in popularizing podcasting for a broader audience and reigniting public fascination with true crime. The Peabody committee praised it as, “Beautifully and intricately composed, utterly gripping… Serial rocketed podcasting into the cultural mainstream.” Its innovative storytelling and deep dive into a single case make it a landmark in the podcasting world.

6Last Podcast on the Left

Last Podcast on the Left offers a listening experience quite unlike any other. Forget the calm, measured delivery common in many podcasts; this show is loud, fast-paced, and unapologetically in-your-face. Hosts Ben Kissel, Marcus Parks, and Henry Zebrowski have a dynamic more akin to a morning radio show crew than typical podcasters. This boisterous style, set against the dark subject matter of true crime, aliens, and cults, creates a uniquely thrilling experience.

Instead of the polished feel of shows like Serial, each episode of Last Podcast on the Left feels like the hosts have just stumbled out of a pub and into the studio to continue their raucous discussion about gruesome murders and occult happenings. While this approach might not appeal to all true crime purists, those who connect with it are in for a wild ride that’s part dark comedy, part deep-dive research.

5Anatomy of Murder

Anatomy of Murder stands out as a true crime podcast hosted by seasoned professionals in the criminal justice field, potentially boasting the most expertise per episode. The show is co-hosted by Anna-Sigga Nicolazzi, a former New York City homicide prosecutor, and Scott Weinberger, a former deputy sheriff who became an investigative reporter. Adding to their credibility, each episode features guests intimately connected to the case, such as detectives, fellow prosecutors, or victims’ family members.

Since its debut, Anatomy of Murder has consistently delivered on its promise to give listeners an “insider’s perspective” by taking them behind the scenes of complex cases. The hosts are both professional and deeply knowledgeable, and the episodes are tightly produced. This results in a podcast that feels authoritative and insightful, offering a grounded look at the intricacies of murder investigations.

4Lore

Some true crime purists might argue about Lore’s inclusion, as it’s often categorized under history rather than true crime. However, a key aspect earns it a spot in the true crime family: many episodes of Lore delve into crimes. These stories are true, and they are consistently some of the most captivating podcast episodes available.

Hosted by Aaron Mahnke, Lore explores dark historical tales and folklore, investigating their alleged paranormal elements and their very real, often criminal, origins. This journey takes Mahnke down fascinating rabbit holes, both historical and contemporary, leading to compelling narratives with surprising reveals. Mahnke’s smooth, rhythmic narration and well-crafted storytelling quickly draw you in. Unusually for a podcast, Lore also inspired a television series gleichen Namens, available on Amazon Prime Video.

3Cold Case Murder Mysteries

This entry might be the most unexpected on the list, as Cold Case Murder Mysteries often flies under the radar compared to chart-topping true crime podcasts. However, what this show lacks in widespread fame, it more than compensates for with its unique approach and, quite often, genuinely profound insights into the criminal mind.

The creative force behind this underrated podcast is Ryan Kraus, a host unlike any other in the field. He possesses a remarkable ability to draw unexpected yet revelatory connections within the cases he examines. Particularly when it comes to the psychology and sociology of those involved in crimes, Kraus’s analysis in Cold Case Murder Mysteries is exceptionally insightful, making it a hidden gem for those seeking deep, thought-provoking content.

2Crime Junkie

Most weeks, Crime Junkie holds the top spot as Apple Podcasts’ most-listened-to true crime podcast. That fact alone speaks volumes about its appeal. If you require further persuasion, consider that the podcast has amassed over 500 million downloads and has consistently ranked at or near the top of numerous major “best of” lists for true crime podcasts.

Hosts Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat are frequently praised for their passionate delivery and meticulous research into the cases they cover. Their skill and sensitivity in handling difficult subjects have even allowed Crime Junkie to transcend its genre, regularly appearing on lists of the most played podcasts across all categories. Their straightforward storytelling and advocacy for victims resonate deeply with listeners.

1My Favorite Murder

Choosing a definitive number one is always challenging, especially with a comedy/true-crime hybrid. However, My Favorite Murder, powered by the incredible chemistry and sharp wit of hosts Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, is a strong contender that is likely to delight most listeners. From very early on, the series has consistently been among the most popular true crime podcasts. It has expanded into live tours, a best-selling book, its own podcast network, and, perhaps most impressively, one of the most dedicated fan communities (or “fan cults”) you’ll ever encounter.

Episodes of My Favorite Murder alternate between studio recordings and live shows, each offering a unique vibe. In recorded sessions, Kilgariff and Hardstark typically start by chatting about their lives and current events before each presenting a true crime story. Live shows follow a similar format but include an extra layer of excitement with constant crowd interaction and enthusiastic audience reactions. Their fans, known as “Murderinos,” are fiercely loyal and have become an integral part of the show’s identity. If you’re among the few true crime fans who haven’t yet tuned in, give Karen and Georgia a listen; you’ll quickly understand their massive appeal.

These podcasts all offer a unique window into the darker aspects of human nature, satisfying that curious itch for the macabre. Whether you prefer straightforward storytelling, expert analysis, or a touch of humor with your horror, there’s something on this list to keep you a self-proclaimed “Spooky B*tch” or a “Murderino” in the making.

Conclusion

The world of true crime podcasts is a rich and varied landscape, offering countless hours of chilling entertainment and thought-provoking narratives. From the groundbreaking impact of Serial to the comedic relief of My Favorite Murder and the deep psychological dives of Cold Case Murder Mysteries, each podcast on this list brings something unique to the table. They explore the darkest corners of human behavior, solve mysteries, and sometimes, even bring a sense of community to those fascinated by these unsettling stories. Whether you’re a seasoned true crime junkie or new to the genre, these ten podcasts are sure to provide a creepy, captivating, and utterly unforgettable listening experience.

What are your favorite creepy true crime podcasts? Did we miss any essential listens? Share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments below!