Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Podcasts are, hands-down, the best entertainment channels for those with diverse tastes. There is always a little something for everyone. For instance, Hollywood-lovers can get their fix through Gilbert Gottfried Podcast. On the other hand, conspiracy theorists can absorb every word of Stuff They Don’t Want You to Know.
However, true crime remains the most famous and well-loved genre of podcasts. Human beings have a strange fascination towards learning about crime and what gives birth to it. This pull towards the dark and twisted psyche that goes into some of the most world-shattering crimes is what fuels the popularity of several true crime podcasts.
Additionally, an audio-only medium like radio or podcasts is perfect for genres like true crime, which gives wings to your imagination and allows you to experience the grotesque gruesomeness through your mind’s eye!
Top 5 true crime podcasts of 2020 that will give you goosebumps:
Due to the overpopulated nature of this genre, it is easy to miss out on a few gems. Thus, to make your search easier, here is a list of the top crime podcasts of 2020.
1. Generation Why Podcast
Hosted by two friends, Aaron and Justin, the Generation Why has been on air since 2012! Given its long-standing reputation, the podcast is considered to be a pioneer in true crime podcasting. The Generation Why library contains over 360 episodes to choose from, so you can gear up for a busy time!
The podcast is hailed for resting on a foundation of solid research and factual position. Further, the hosts are unafraid of sharing their opinions and assumptions on cases that are up for discussion. More interestingly, they do not restrict themselves to popular crimes but also dip their toes into unsolved mysteries and not so popular murders.
While Aaron adds to the research and facts of the case, Justin balances it out by evoking emotions. For listeners, the podcast is like participating in a discussion with two friends. So, if you are a newbie who is warming up to true-crime podcasts, Generation Why is a great place to get started!
2. Casefile True Crime Podcast
Casefile True Crime Podcast, also known as Casefile, is a popular weekly Australian true-crime podcast that has been making waves since 2016. The greatest intrigue with Casefile lies in the fact that the host of the said podcast is unknown and continues to remain anonymous. While the podcast’s initial focus rested upon solved and cold criminal cases in Australia, several notable cases from the UK and US also feature here occasionally.
The podcast talks about some of the most harrowing cases in a gripping yet respectful and highly detailed manner. The narrative and storyline of the episodes are a testament to the high-quality research that goes into producing the work. Acknowledging the same, the podcast is in receipt of the Best Podcast title from 2016 through 2019 from Apple Podcasts and declared the Podcast of the Decade by Spotify.
So if you are looking for something serious, well-written, well-researched, and well-narrated, then Casefile is the way to go!
3. Criminal Podcast
If you are obsessed with true crime, then allow us to introduce you to Criminal. Conceptualized by public radio host, Phoebe Judge, Criminal is a treat to your ears and just the stimulation that your true crime mind needs.
The podcast goes beyond the sheer act and explores various facets of the crime. Expect to hear about the human side of the crime, the mayhem surrounding it, and events leading to the crime. Every episode is like a paperback with character development, a plotline, and an investigation.
In addition to being highly acclaimed for its high journalistic standards, what sets Criminal apart is the high-quality production of the podcast. The production team has invested adequate time and effort in every episode, and it reflects in the crisp sound quality, probing interviews, and unwinding storylines.
4. My Favorite Murder Podcast
Finding it hard to commit to an entire true-crime podcast season? My Favorite Murder is what you need. With this podcast, you can pop in whenever you get the chance and opt-out if you don’t have the time. It is hosted by two comedian friends, Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, who enjoy a cult following (cue “Murderinos”).
For every episode of My Favorite Murder, Karen and Georgia pick out a real-life murder, analyze its circumstances, and chat about it. A word of caution, though, since they are funny women, you may have to get comfortable with their irreverence around serious topics. It is a highly refreshing podcast that dives into true crime in a silly yet enlightening fashion.
My Favorite Murder is a strange kind of therapy for those who love all things related to murders. This highly addictive podcast will make you feel like you fit right in!
5. Today in True Crime Podcast
Today in True Crime stands by its tagline, “Crime never takes a day off, and neither does Parcast.” The daily podcast takes a peek into the past to bring to you the true-crime event related to the very date.
It could be the anniversary of the occurrence or the solving or the end trial of the crime. Some days mark the birthday of a serial killer!
The podcast presents a brief true crime story and studies its impact. Unlike most other true crime podcasts that cover 30 to 45 minutes on an average, Today in True Crime keeps it short. While Vanessa is a regular host, the podcast also features several guest speakers every once in a while.
Today in True Crime is your perfect dose during a commute or just before bedtime!
Final Thoughts
As you can see from above, unlike popular belief, true crime podcasts are not monolithic. They are composed of several sub-genres and formats that make them even more interesting.
From investigative journalism to two friends talking about crime – there is complete flexibility in the type of podcast that you can enjoy. With the above recommendations, you can save your valuable time and listen to the podcasts that really stand out!
Share this content:
