What does it take to make a podcast popular? That’s every podcaster’s question.
When you’re talking about numbers and recognition, there are a lot of factors that matter.
Whether it’s an influential guest lineup or hearty and authentic conversations, making a successful podcast takes strategic effort and work.
Look at how these 51 most popular podcasts climbed their way up the charts. From true crime to motivational stories, each one gained a big audience and undeniable acclaim.
In this article, you can explore the top podcasts right now and gain insights from what’s trending and which one is most listened to. Find shows to inspire you and learn from their strategies for getting to the top.
What Are the Most Popular Podcasts?
When someone says “most popular podcasts,” what do they really mean?
Podcast rankings combine many signals: number of downloads, subscriber counts, listener growth, engagement, chart positions, shares, and platform algorithms.
- Apple Podcasts: Subscriptions, new subscriber growth, and listener retention.
- Spotify and YouTube: Streaming data, plays, and in-platform engagement.
According to Edison Research’s charts in the US, the number of people who watch a podcast is also counted.
For podcasters and listeners, understanding these rankings lets you know which shows are worth your time and can give the most value.
Why podcast is popular
There are many reasons why podcasting has become a go-to companion for many people:
- On-demand: Listeners can dive in whenever they like, rather than tuning in live.
- In-depth content: Features long-form dives and storytelling to get to the heart of a discussion.
- Portable: You can listen while commuting, walking, or working.
- Invites emotional connection: Includes real conversations, vulnerable stories, and candid moments.
- Many niche topics: You can talk about anything under the sun and get as specific as you want to.
- Low barrier to entry: Anyone can start a podcast with a few good editing tools and effort.
Are podcasts becoming more popular?
Yes, there are already over 584.1 million global listeners in 2025 (Podcast Statistics). That’s a 6.84% increase from 2024.
There’s something intimate about hearing someone talk in your ear, as if you’re just having a conversation with a friend. Podcasters are also getting more innovative by adding video and experimenting with more storytelling formats.
Podcasts are not just a niche anymore. They’re popular and are becoming part of mainstream media that people look for in their everyday lives.
51 Most Popular Podcasts in the World: 2026 Snapshot
Here’s a snapshot of top podcasts across different metrics and platforms:
- Most popular podcasts of all time: The Joe Rogan Experience
- Most popular podcasts right now: JRE, Crime Junkie, The Daily, Call Her Daddy, This Past Weekend with Theo Von
- Most popular podcasts by downloads: JRE, Crime Junkie
- Most popular podcasts by listeners: JRE, Crime Junkie
- Most popular podcasts on Spotify: The Joe Rogan Experience
- Most popular podcasts on Apple: The Daily
- Most popular podcasts on YouTube: The Joe Rogan Experience
Which Podcast Is the Most Popular?
Popularity can mean a lot of things in the world of podcasting. You can define it based on downloads, listeners, or platform presence.
What’s undeniable is impact. The podcast shows listed here have carved out their spots in podcast history and have changed the way listeners enjoy audio content.
1. Joe Rogan: Most popular podcasts of all time
Joe Rogan’s podcast is known for its unfiltered, long-form interviews with a diverse lineup of guests. It averages over 11 million downloads per episode, popular worldwide thanks to Joe’s candid interview style.
- Host/s: Joe Rogan
- Topics: Culture, fitness, controversial topics, comedy
- Best for: Listeners who enjoy thought-provoking, unscripted conversations with celebrity guests and experts
2. Crime Junkie: Most famous podcasts of all time
This true crime podcast captivates listeners with gripping true crime stories and investigative narratives. It boasts over two billion downloads and has gained a massive following of true crime enthusiasts worldwide.
- Host/s: Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat
- Topics: True crime, criminal cases, disappearances, eerie unsolved mysteries
- Best for: Fans of investigative and suspenseful storytelling
3. Serial: Most popular podcasts of all time
Serial set a standard for narrative audio journalism, earning the first-ever Peabody Award for a podcast. It tells one true story over the course of a season, transforming the way podcasting is done.
- Host/s: Sarah Koenig
- Topics: True crime, investigative journalism, criminal cases, storytelling
- Best for: Listeners who enjoy in-depth investigative stories and detailed true crime narratives
4. This American Life: Most popular podcasts ever
Ira Glass’s storytelling series blends journalism and personal stories to deliver compelling narratives. The show is a big player in podcasting history, captivating over three million listeners weekly.
- Host/s: Ira Glass
- Topics: Storytelling, human experiences, social issues
- Best for: Listeners who love emotional depth and thought-provoking stories
Which Is the Number 1 Podcast in the World Right Now?
If you ask people, “Joe Rogan” comes up a lot. But aside from this podcasting giant, other shows also pop up in today’s trending charts.
Here are the current leading podcasts with charismatic hosts and strong audience engagement:
5. The Diary of a CEO: Most popular podcasts right now
This podcast dives into raw business stories and mindset lessons from top entrepreneurs. It resonates with over 25 million followers for its motivational and actionable content.
- Host/s: Steven Bartlett
- Topics: Business, entrepreneurship, mindset, success stories
- Best for: Entrepreneurs and those looking for practical business insights
6. This Past Weekend with Theo Von: Most popular podcasts now
Theo Von blends comedy, nostalgia, and personal reflection with witty storytelling that brings listeners into his world. Just on his YouTube channel, he has over 4.2 million subscribers.
- Host/s: Theo Von
- Topics: Comedy, storytelling, mental health, personal anecdotes
- Best for: Comedy lovers seeking humor mixed with heartfelt stories
7. The Daily: Most popular podcasts today
If you checked Apple’s chart at this moment, The Daily often sits at #1 or close. Produced by The New York Times, it offers concise daily news stories to help listeners stay informed.
- Host/s: Michael Barbaro
- Topics: Daily news, investigative stories
- Best for: Listeners who value a quick, daily news update instead of long-form podcasts
8. The Pat McAfee Show: Most popular podcasts for men
Hosted by former NFL player Pat McAfee, this talk-radio style show mixes sports, pop culture, and candid humor with engaging guest interviews. With 2.9 million subscribers on YouTube, the show has built a loyal and solid audience.
- Host/s: Pat McAfee
- Topics: Sports, humor, pop culture, interviews
- Best for: Listeners wanting to listen to energetic and relatable conversations
9. Office Ladies
Office Ladies features cast members of “The Office” as they give behind-the-scenes stories from the famous show. Rated 4.9K by over 38K listeners, this rewatch podcast is beloved for its scene-by-scene commentary and answers to fan questions.
- Host/s: Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinse
- Topics: Episode breakdowns, behind-the-scenes insights, cast and crew interviews, fan interactions
- Best for: Fans of “The Office”, TV rewatch enthusiasts, comedy lovers
10. The Tim Ferriss Show
The Tim Ferris Show is a top podcast for self-improvement and business insights, with over a billion total downloads. Tim Ferriss conducts in-depth interviews with high achievers across various fields, giving actionable advice to listeners who want to optimize their lives.
- Host/s: Tim Ferris
- Topics: Mindset, personal development, productivity hacks
- Best for: Listeners on their journey to personal growth and success
11. Call Her Daddy: Most popular podcasts for women
Over 10 million monthly listeners tune in to Alex Cooper’s uncensored and candid discussions with guests. She cuts through the BS with her edgy and bold topics on sexuality, relationships, and drama.
- Host/s: Alex Cooper
- Topics: Relationships, dating, lifestyle
- Best for: Women interested in candid relationship talk, as if listening to a friend
12. IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson
IMO features interviews with special guests to bring out their thoughts and insights about relationships and personal growth. It typically ranks at #3 for Spotify and Apple Podcasts, attracting audiences looking for answers to questions they face every day.
- Host/s: Michelle Obama, Craig Robinson
- Topics: Personal stories, advice, motivation, culture
- Best for: People looking for inspiration to rise up from personal challenges
13. The goop podcast
The goop podcast features thoughtful interviews with the top figures in wellness, health, and lifestyle. It has over 197K followers on YouTube, tuning into interviews by Gwyneth Paltrow.
- Host/s: Gwyneth Paltrow
- Topics: Self-care, alternative health, nutrition, mental well-being
- Best for: Wellness enthusiasts, conscious consumers, and listeners interested in conversations with a reflective and motivational tone
What Are the Most Watched Podcasts?
Podcasts aren’t just audio anymore. Video podcasts on platforms like YouTube and Spotify are now the norm.
These video versions allow viewers to see body language, energy, and facial expressions, making them more engaging.
The Joe Rogan Experience and The Diary of a CEO also top video podcasts, with other shows following suit. Here are some of the most popular video podcasts out there:
14. The Happiness Lab
This podcast unlocks the science of happiness, with Dr. Laurie using her psych background to give everyday tips for joy and well-being. Since its launch, it has a whopping 45 million downloads worldwide.
- Host/s: Dr. Laurie Santos
- Topics: Mental health, mindfulness, wellness, motivation, personal growth
- Best for: Listeners who want scientifically grounded advice on mental well-being, happiness, and lifestyle improvements
15. Huberman Lab
The Huberman Lab is known as one of the best science podcasts out there. Reaching over 8.1-12 million monthly downloads, it’s supported by educated and professional listeners.
- Host/s: Dr. Andrew Huberman
- Topics: Neuroscience, health optimization, fitness, mental performance, sleep science
- Best for: Listeners who want evidence-based guidance on enhancing mental and physical health
16. No Jumper: Most popular video podcasts
If you want to dive into underground and internet subcultures, No Jumper crawls into that side of the web. Over 4.29 million subscribers tune in to this self-dubbed “Coolest Podcast in the World”.
- Host/s: Adam Grandmaison
- Topics: Underground culture, hip-hop, streetwear
- Best for: Younger and culturally savvy audiences curious about rising stars and influencers
17. New Heights
The show gives you a sneak peek behind “football’s funniest family duo”. With over 3.11 million followers on YouTube, Travis and Jason share insights on NFL news and sports headlines.
- Host/s: Travis and Jason Kelce
- Topics: Sports, NFL insights, pop culture, personal stories, interviews
- Best for: Listeners looking for rare insider access to league stories and sports culture
18. H3 Podcast: Most watched podcast in the world
H3 Podcast is a show with commentary, interviews and comedy. On YouTube, it has around 2.63 million subscribers who appreciate the humor and sharp opinions on the show.
- Host/s: Ethan and Hila Klein
- Topics: Comedy, pop culture, commentary on viral events and social issues
- Best for: Listeners interested in internet drama and culture
19. Breaking Points
Breaking Points is a political news and opinion video-audio series. It has over 1.62 million subscribers on YouTube, tuning into their fearless and anti-establishment voice.
- Host/s: Krystal Ball and Saagar Enjeti
- Topics: Political commentary, American politics, current events
- Best for: Audiences looking for a balanced perspective on policy, political strategy and social issues
20. Emergency Intercom
Emergency Intercom is a comedy podcast that tries everything to get your attention. More than 426K YouTube followers look forward to their video episodes.
- Host/s: Sean Patton and Ryan J. Haddad
- Topics: Comedy, podcasting culture, personal anecdotes, being a creator
- Best for: Comedy podcast fans looking for lighthearted and funny discussions
21. SmartLess
SmartLess is all about the shared human experiences, connecting different people for an organic dialogue. Over 100K-500K monthly listeners appreciate the improvised format, full of laughter and thoughtful perspectives.
- Host/s: Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett
- Topics: Comedy, celebrity interviews, storytelling, pop culture
- Best for: Fans of comedians, celebrity guests, and unscripted, lighthearted conversations
What Is the Most Listened to Podcast?
Podcasts with huge listener bases and download numbers prove the support of their community. Shows like JRE, Crime Junkie, and Call Her Daddy top this list. But other shows have also gained a big following.
Here are standout podcasts in terms of downloads, streams and reach across platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts:
22. The Mel Robbins Podcast: Most downloaded podcasts of all time
Mel Robbins provides listeners with research-backed advice to create positive changes in their lives. Often ranked as the #1 education podcast with over 3 million downloads a month, her dedicated listener base remains engaged with her expert interviews.
- Host/s: Mel Robbins
- Topics: Personal development, mental health, resilience, career coaching, science-backed life hacks
- Best for: Listeners seeking practical tools to transform their lives with clear guidance
23. Planet Money: Most popular podcasts by downloads
This educational podcast shows how money and world financial issues impact everyday life. With over 6 million downloads a month, it just shows how people are hungry for bite-sized economy lessons.
- Host/s: Lisa Chow and Jacob Goldstein
- Topics: Economics, finance, business, policy, current events
- Best for: Listeners who want to learn about economics in an engaging and easy-to-understand way
24. The Jefferson Fisher Podcast: Most popular podcasts by listeners
Jefferson Fisher interviews thought leaders and helps listeners work through life’s challenges and cultivate success. If you’re looking for a show to strengthen your mindset and leadership skills, this is a good choice.
- Host/s: Jefferson Fisher
- Topics: Motivation, leadership, emotional resilience, self-improvement
- Best for: Listeners seeking inspiration for practical business and leadership strategies
What Is the Number One Podcast Per Platform?
Each platform has its own list of popular podcasts, shaped by how it ranks and measures.
JRE dominates Spotify, while The Diary of a CEO tops Apple Podcasts. With YouTube, JRE, and H3 Podcast rake in views.
Here are the other most popular podcasts on different podcast hosting platforms:
25. The Shawn Ryan Show: Most followed podcasts on Spotify
Former Navy SEAL and CIA contractor Shawn Ryan interviews military veterans, intelligence operatives, and whistleblowers. Featuring real and raw stories on service and personal resilience, this show attracts over 353K monthly views.
- Host/s: Shawn Ryan
- Topics: Military, national security, veterans’ stories, geopolitics
- Best for: Listeners interested in military stories and insights of intelligence professionals
26. The Comment Section: Most popular comedy podcasts Spotify
In this viral commentary podcast, comedian Drew Afualo and a new weekly guest dive into their comment section. It’s a clear recipe for disaster, laughter, and authentic conversations, which millions of young listeners appreciate.
- Host/s: Drew Afualo
- Topics: Comedy, social issues, pop culture, internet trends
- Best for: Fans of witty, candid, and sharp social commentary
27. Armchair Expert: Most popular podcasts on Spotify
This show features deep interviews with celebrities, experts, and thought leaders about what it means to be human. It has over 500K monthly listeners, looking forward to hearing about the messiness of life from Dax, Monica, and their guests.
- Host/s: Dax Shepard and Monica Padman
- Topics: Celebrity interviews, mental health, culture, personal stories
- Best for: Listeners who enjoy behind-the-scenes celebrity stories
28. Anything Goes with Emma Chamberlain: Recommended podcast on Spotify
Like the name suggests, anything goes in Emma’s podcast, talking about whatever’s on her mind that week. The casual and informal sound of the show makes it relatable to her 500K+ monthly listeners.
- Host/s: Emma Chamberlain
- Topics: Pop culture, lifestyle, humor, personal life
- Best for: Fans of casual and candid conversations
29. Dateline NBC: Most popular podcasts on Apple
This long-running true-crime podcast has reached over 21.2 million listens at its peak. It features investigative stories, real criminal cases, and in-depth journalistic reporting.
- Host/s: NBC News correspondents
- Topics: True crime, investigations, legal cases
- Best for: Fans of investigative journalism and well-produced true crime storytelling
30. This Is Gavin Newsom: Most popular podcasts on YouTube
Gavin Newsom invites people he disagrees with to have a good, balanced conversation. More than 190K followers tune in to his YouTube channel to learn about politics, major policy issues and leadership challenges.
- Host/s: Gavin Newsom
- Topics: Politics, governance, leadership, state policy
- Best for: Listeners interested in political insights from a sitting government leader.
31. Rotten Mango: Most viewed podcasts on YouTube
With over 5.77 million subscribers, listeners watch Stephanie uncover lesser-known or underreported true crime cases. Fans appreciate how she balances suspenseful storytelling with facts and interviews.
- Host/s: Stephanie Soo
- Topics: True crime, missing persons, cold cases
- Best for: True crime fans looking for new, intriguing cold case investigations with thoughtful commentary.
Which Podcasts Are Most Popular Per Category?
Podcasts are so diverse that there’s a show for every audience. Within each of these categories, different shows stand out.
Here are the most popular podcasts per genre worth exploring:
32. Jillian on Love: Most popular relationship podcasts
Certified relationship coach Jillian Turecki helps people find love starting from within. With her highly rated show on Spotify (4.8), she shares powerful advice to heal from a broken heart or start again.
- Host/s: Jillian Turecki
- Topics: Relationship coaching, emotional health, conflict resolution
- Best for: Listeners improving their love life through self-awareness and expert guidance
33. On Purpose with Jay Shetty: Most popular mental health podcasts
Jay Shetty shares his wisdom on strengthening both mindset and habits. 4.6 million people tune in to his YouTube show to learn about inner peace and mindfulness.
- Host/s: Jay Shetty
- Topics: Mindfulness, motivation, self-improvement, relationships
- Best for: Listeners looking for inspiration to turn their lives around
34. Acquired: Most popular tech podcasts
Acquired gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at some of the biggest tech and business stories. Rated 4.9 on Spotify, many entrepreneurial and C-level executives pay attention as the show dives into the playbook of company acquisitions.
- Host/s: Ben Gilbert and David Rosenthal
- Topics: Business history, entrepreneurship, startups, tech industry
- Best for: Entrepreneurs and business enthusiasts wanting insider stories on company success
35. The Read: Most popular black podcasts
The Read spills the tea (and even throws shade) about music, politics, and current events. This candid pop culture and social commentary podcast resonates with Black audiences and beyond, getting over a million listens every month.
- Host/s: Kid Fury and Crissle West
- Topics: Pop culture, Black culture, social justice, humor
- Best for: Listeners who enjoy unfiltered commentary full of wit and cultural insights
36. The Bible Project: Most popular Christian podcasts
This podcast explores biblical narratives using both scholarly insights and storytelling. Rated 4.8 by over 18K listeners on Apple Podcasts, Tim and Jon’s conversation makes Bible teachings accessible and easy to understand.
- Host/s: Tim Mackie and Jon Collins
- Topics: Christianity, theology, biblical history
- Best for: People interested in faith, theology, and deep biblical studies
37. The Tucker Carlson Show: Most popular conservative podcasts
Tucker Carlson shares political commentary and cultural analysis with a conservative viewpoint. Over 4.6M subscribers on YouTube listen to his discussions of the current US and global politics.
- Host/s: Tucker Carlson
- Topics: Politics, U.S. news, cultural issues
- Best for: Conservative listeners interested in opinionated political analysis
38. Stuff You Should Know: Most popular education podcasts
The Stuff You Should Know podcast covers a wide range of topics, hoping to both educate and entertain. This top show with Josh and Chuck averages over 30 million monthly downloads, thanks to fans who look forward to weekly fun facts and trivia.
- Host/s: Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant
- Topics: Science, history, pop culture, curiosities
- Best for: Curious minds who want a go-to source to learn something new in an interesting way
39. The Ramsey Show: Most popular finance podcasts
Financial expert Dave Ramsey shares his strategies for building wealth and managing debt. Reaching over 18 million combined weekly listeners across platforms, his audience looks forward to his actionable tips for long-term financial planning.
- Host/s: Dave Ramsey
- Topics: Personal finance, money management, budgeting
- Best for: Listeners wanting straightforward, actionable financial guidance
40. The Giant Bombcast: Most popular gaming podcasts
The Giant Bombcast is the podcast for you if you’re tuning in to new game releases, gaming industry trends, and game reviews. Over 245K YouTube subscribers enjoy the lively discussions and humor that the hosts bring to the table.
- Host/s: Giant Bomb staff
- Topics: Gaming, pop culture, tech
- Best for: Gaming enthusiasts looking for an insider look and casual commentary
41. The Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast: Most popular leadership podcasts
This leadership podcast draws from Craig’s extensive experience, attracting an estimated 100K-500K monthly listeners. He gives people empowering insights on how to lead others and themselves.
- Host/s: Craig Groeschel
- Topics: Communication, organizational growth, personal leadership habits
- Best for: Managers and leaders who want real-world strategies to improve team dynamics and leadership skills
42. The Dr. John Delony Show: Most popular mental health podcasts
Dr. John gets real with callers about their mental health and relationship challenges. This show has over 1.46 million subscribers on YouTube, tuning in for his advice on working through the messy parts of life.
- Host/s: Dr. John Delony
- Topics: Mental health, wellbeing, relationships
- Best for: Listeners looking for practical and relatable mental health support
43. The Rewatchables: Most popular movie podcasts
This film podcast features fun banter between hosts as they discuss and debate movies. On their YouTube channel with over 85K subscribers and other major platforms, they talk about popular films and what makes them memorate and worth rewatching.
- Host/s: Bill Simmons
- Topics: Movies, pop culture, entertainment
- Best for: Movie fans looking for fun discussions of their favorite films
44. Pod Save America: Most listened to political podcasts
Pod Save America is a no-BS political show that helps people figure out what really matters in current events. The hosts interview journalists, world leaders, activists, and entertainers, gaining over 500K listens a month.
- Host/s: Jon Favreau, Jon Lovett, Dan Pfeiffer, Tommy Vietor
- Topics: Politics, activism, current events
- Best for: Progressive political listeners who want actionable analysis
45. Fresh Air: Most rated art podcast
This long-running radio show podcast features intimate conversations with authors, celebrities, and newsmakers. It’s one of public radio’s most popular programs, with over 35K people rating it 4.3 on Apple Podcasts.
- Host/s: Terry Gross
- Topics: Arts, culture, news interviews
- Best for: Listeners who enjoy well-researched and thoughtful interviews about art
46. The NoSleep Podcast: Most popular fiction podcast
This horror fiction podcast features professionally narrated scary stories to thrill and chill listeners. This multi-awarded anthology series of originals features a cast of talented voice actors and spooky music and sound effects.
- Host/s: David Cummings and Matt Hulse
- Topics: Horror, storytelling, suspense
- Best for: Horror and thriller fans looking for high-quality audio stories
48. The Ezra Klein Show: Most popular culture podcast
This political and cultural commentary podcast features interviews and deep conversations hosted by journalist Ezra Klein. His 429K subscribers on YouTube tune in to his ideas and frameworks to see the world in a new light.
- Host/s: Ezra Klein
- Topics: Politics, culture, philosophy
- Best for: Listeners interested in thoughtful cultural and political discourse
49. The Joe Budden Podcast: Most popular music podcast
Joe and his friends have crazy conversations about hip-hop culture and music. Rated 4.5 by over 10K listeners, their audience loves their candid conversations with personalities from the industry.
- Host/s: Joe Budden
- Topics: Hip-hop, music, culture, current events
- Best for: Hip-hop fans and cultural commentary enthusiasts
50. On Being with Krista Tippett: Most popular spiritual podcasts
This contemplative podcast explores life’s biggest questions about humanity. Krista invites poets, activists, scientists, and religious leaders for deep and reflective conversations, attracting over a million listeners a month.
- Host/s: Krista Tippett
- Topics: Spiritual inquiry, human experience, science, social healing, philosophy
- Best for: Listeners who want soulful discussions that nourish the mind and heart
51. Science Vs: Most popular science podcast
Science Vs debunks popular myths and misconceptions on controversial topics using scientific evidence and expert opinions.
Doing the hard work so you don’t have to, this high-ranking educational show is grounded in research to share what’s fact and what’s not.
- Host/s: Wendy Zukerman
- Topics: Science, health, environment, social issues
- Best for: Curious, critical thinkers who want evidence-based explanations of complex topics
Who Is the Number 1 Podcast in the World?
While “number one” can be up for debate, here are five of the biggest names in podcasting with undeniable reach:
- The Joe Rogan Experience: A leader in reach, influence, and downloads.
- Crime Junkie: A household name for true crime storytelling.
- Call Her Daddy: Known for bold, personal, and dramatic conversations.
- The Daily: Top news podcast from an iconic media brand.
- The Diary of a CEO: Dominates entrepreneurial spaces.
These shows can give you inspiration for how to grow a podcast.
They reached where they are because of genre strength, host voice, guest networks, consistent output, and deep resonance with their audiences.
Who has the most viewed podcast?
When you’re looking at Spotify and YouTube video podcasts, JRE holds the crown. Its scale and consistency keep its listeners engaged and entertained.
One thing that makes JRE podcast episodes stand out is their long, uncut deep dives. Even if the conversation goes on for three hours, Joe lets his guests open up, leading to natural and deeper interviews.
Its most-viewed episode is an interview with Elon Musk, reaching over 69 million views on YouTube. They talk about artificial intelligence, space exploration projects, and electric cars.
Most Popular Types of Podcasts
Different types of podcasts come in many formats. You can experiment to find which suits your style and makes a good podcast:
- Interview: A host invites a guest and asks them questions about their expertise or experiences.
- Narrative: You focus on telling stories, driven by an intriguing plot. Often heavily edited with music and sound effects.
- News: Short daily episodes about recurring events.
- Monologue or solo shows: One host discusses a topic by themselves.
- Panel or roundtable: You have a group of hosts sharing their opinions about a common topic.
Aside from formats, consider your podcast setup. Here’s a guide for a four-person podcast setup.
Most popular podcasts platforms
Looking for platforms to host your show? Here are the most popular podcast hosting platforms to launch your podcast:
- Spotify: A top option for streaming music and podcasts.
- Apple Podcasts: Home to millions of shows and personalized recommendations for your listening experience.
- YouTube: Mainly a video streaming platform where you can upload your video episodes.
Examples of podcasts topics
If you’re going to start your podcast, take inspiration from popular genres as you think of topics. These include:
- True crime: Investigations, cold cases, unsolved mysteries, disappearances
- Business: Entrepreneurship, leadership, mindset of successful people
- Education: Science, history, how things are made, guides
- Mental health: Mindfulness, self-care, wellbeing, spirituality
- Pop culture: Celebrity life, drama, viral moments
- Current events: News, culture, politics
Learn more about podcasting 101 by turning into podcasts about podcasting.
Top the Charts
The most popular podcasts sit on top for a reason. For new voices who want to be heard, their success stories are a goldmine of tips and insights.
At the end of the day, it all comes down to how you connect with people. For most of these top shows, engaging interviews build that emotional connection with both guests and listeners.
Try your hand at interviewing and slowly grow your audience. Start with guests who align with your voice and purpose.
How do you find them? Create your free Talks profile and get matched with the right guests for your podcast.
The algorithm does the work for you. Get personalized recommendations of possible personalities to invite once you fill in your information.
Sign up with your Free Talks Creator Profile Today.
