Top 24 Story Podcasts of 2023

We never outgrow listening to stories.

Whatever the mood you’re in, there’s always that story we can relate to or enjoy.

In today’s world, you don’t even need to stop what you’re doing to listen to a good story.

Podcasts make this experience convenient.

The only question is: in the vast audio library begging for a listen, which ones are actually worth your time?

Here we give you my favorites of the best story podcasts in varying genres.

1

"Root of Evil," the podcast sensation not named after a gardening accident, delves into the intricacies surrounding the infamous Black Dahlia murder. Our hosts, Rasha Pecoraro and Yvette Gentile, could surely pick a cheerier topic, but where's the fun in that? They’re the great granddaughters of George Hodel, a prime suspect, just to add a dash more darkness. This gripping, family-filled whodunit is not for the faint-hearted, at times it’s more twisted than a pretzel at a yoga retreat. A must-listen for true crime fans and lovers of an intriguing mystery. So put on your detective hat (and maybe leave the lights on), because with episodes like "Mannequin at the Carnival", you're in for one heck of a spine-tingling journey!

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2

"Step aboard the whimsical ship of Story Pirates, a wild romp through the imaginative tales of kids, hosted by a motley crew of professional actors, comedians, musicians, and writers. Notorious for turning bedtime stories into mega-fun exploits, they've convinced many a young scribe that pirates do more than pillage – they spin gold from youngsters' creativity. Designed for the little dreamers, gigglers, and future novelists, this podcast brings children's yarns to colourful life, peppered with expertly timed snorts, guffaws, and a barrel of laughs. From cheeky unicorns to pesky siblings, each episode is a joyride through fandom's pint-sized intellect. A treasure trove that marries education with consequence-free riotous fun, Story Pirates isn't just kids' stuff — it's 'Every-Jolly-Roger's' guilty pleasure!"

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3

Ready for some Zen-infused storytelling? Welcome to Meditative Story - a podcast that'll soothe your ears and mind like no other. Hosted by Rohan Gunatillake, a modern-day mindfulness guru, this podcast brings fascinating, calming tales told by inspiring personalities from around the world. Each episode is a cocktail of deep thoughts, peaceful music, and silent moments to aid your meditation, all wrapped in a tranquil narrative. The target audience? Anyone seeking a dash of serenity in the chaos of everyday life. Experience an episode like 'The Drummer’s Path.' Here, Grammy-winner Clayton Cameron reveals that rhythm isn’t confined to music—it’s everything! So why not treat yourself to some mindfulness with a twist, and enjoy stories that are as soothing as a cup of herbal tea on a crisp, fall morning.

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4

"88 Days: The Jayme Closs Story" is a gripping saga narrated by Joe Fryer, who showcases an investigative journalist's tenacity and a crime novelist's suspense. This engrossing podcast traces the real-life ordeal of Jayme Closs, a brave teen who escaped a nightmare after 88 grueling days. True crime fans - buckle up, because you're diving into a story that rivets and chills in equal measures. If you thought "Stranger Things" was spine-tingling, wait till you hear about this survival drama from the relentless Wisconsin woods. So, tune in, and get ready to chew on your nails - 88 Days has enough cliffhangers to leave you on the edge of your (car) seat!

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5

"The Birth Hour A Birth Story Podcast invites you to take a front row seat to childbirth - no stirrups necessary! Hosted by the ever-curious Bryn Huntpalmer, she gathers your favorite fairy stork-tales, transforming the delivery room into a storytelling corner. Designed for anyone who's ever wondered about the miracle of birth, this podcast provides a headfirst dive into the magical, sometimes messy, world of motherhood. With raw, powerful birth stories from moms around the globe, it's nothing short of a maternity ward in your ears, delivering laughs, tears, and above all, understanding. And trust me, the water-breaking episode is much more fun than the real thing! So whether you're pregnant, a seasoned mom, or just genuinely curious, it's time to push (pun intended!) play on The Birth Hour podcast."

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6

Welcome to "Story Time", the anecdotal equivalent of a midnight feast – snackable narratives that leave you wanting seconds. Hosted by an ex-librarian who abandoned dusting bookshelves to put tales directly in your ears. Story Time arrives bearing gifts of enchanted storytelling for imaginative kids, playful adults, and everyone else who refuses to grow up. Carved out for your inner child, the podcast sparkles with myths, mystery, and sometimes, a dash of mayhem. Ever heard of a turtle outwitting a rabbit? Or a giant who just loves to knit? Leave it to Story Time, they've baked it all right in! With the storybook turned audio, "Story Time" brings your favorite fairy-tales and fables closer, because bedtime stories are not only for kiddos, but also for the kids-at-heart.

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7

Dive into the twisted but true saga of Miriam Rivera with "Harsh Reality: The Story of Miriam Rivera", a podcast rich with scandal, secrets and reality TV hullabaloo. Hosted by the loquacious Adrian Lacy, the show tracks the thrilling rollercoaster ride of Rivera, the world's first transgender reality TV star. Perfect for fans of true crime turned hilarious cabaret, this intriguing podcast probes deep, just like the investigative journalist Miriam always dreamed of being. Enter the bizarro world of reality TV where the only rule is expect the unexpected! Ever wondered what it's like to be the talk of the town? Rivera spills the beans with compelling stories that will leave you flabbergasted! Forget the Kardashians, Rivera is here to bust the reality bubble with one heck of a bang!

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8

Framed: An Investigative Story is a brilliant detective saga, presented in podcast form. It's your Sherlock-type narrative, sans the deer-stalker hat and old-timey pipe. Your hosts? Well, not exactly Watson and Holmes, but regular Joes who became obsessed with creating this podcast. Framed, as the title suggests, dives into stories of individuals who may have been, you guessed it, framed. It brilliantly combines suspenseful storytelling, meticulous research, and sharp analysis. Perfect for true-crime enthusiasts, armchair detectives, and everyone who enjoys a good twisty tale. Among their intriguing episodes is 'The Family', a rewind to an eerie neighborhood mystery. It's more gripping than your aunt's yearly retelling of her encounter with the paranormal, hand on heart. So, get yourself framed, won't you?

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9

"House of Broken Dreams: The Jennifer Kesse Story" takes you into the riveting world of unsolved mysteries with a twinge of true crime thrill. Hosted by the relentless duo deep-diving into the chilling disappearance of our gal, Jennifer Kesse. This podcast is aimed at true crime afficionados, or 'Sherlock-Homies' if you will, with a knack for decoding puzzles. Each episode peels back layers of intrigue and speculation, serving up a tantalizing buffet of clues, interviews, and theories. Prepare to walk through a thrilling maze of uncertainty and suspense, powered with gritty narratives and eyebrow-raising revelations. Warning: This podcast could turn you into an armchair detective and have you buying oversized magnifying glasses online. Listen today, and embark on a captivating journey into the world of the enigmatic Jennifer Kesse story.

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10

'The Story Collider' Podcast - Brace yourselves for a roller-coaster ride of emotions where science and life collide head-on. Brought to life by hosts Erin Barker and Liz Neeley, these two science buffs turned storytellers find the wit, wisdom, and wow-factor in tales from the trenches of scientific research and discovery. The content? A mind-spinning mix of personal narratives sprinkled with a dash of scientific factoids. Perfect for the ever-curious, those pesky existentialists, or anyone with insatiable curiosity for the nitty-gritty of science! From discombobulated physicists to accidentally innovative biologists, each episode serves up a tantalizing taste of life's unpredictable experiment. One show stealer? 'The Accidental Environmentalist,' a tale of a marine biologist whose career takes an unplanned deep dive. Be warned: expect gut-busting laughter, aha moments, and perhaps a tear or two. Because science just got personal!

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11

Chiming in straight from heartbreak hotel is Alone: A Love Story, a podcast hosted by the fabulous Michelle Parise. Think of it as a 'dish the dirt' session with your bestie over a bottle of merlot, but with depth, intelligence, and sometimes, gravy. It's a poignant solopod (yes, I made that word up), grappling with love, loss and life. Our Queen of heartbreak takes listeners on an emotional trip through her life, from the dizzying heights of wedded bliss to the crushing depths of divorce. And with a target audience as diverse as a pack of Skittles, it's a delicious must-listen for anyone who's loved and lost... and loved again. Get ready to cry, laugh, ponder and – let's admit it – relate! One gut-wrenching episode at a time.

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12

"Feeling brave, folks? Tune into the Scary Story Podcast, a spooky, spine-chilling trip into the unknown hosted by the larger-than-life, Edwin Covarrubias. Our host, more often than not, sounds like he has just emerged from a particularly harrowing haunted house, and decided to share his spectral tales over a cup of ectoplasmic tea! Scary Story Podcast is a fascinating cauldron filled with mesmerizing horror stories that'll make any brave adult listener sleep with a nightlight. Boasting titles like 'Footsteps in the Hall' and 'The Chased' - this podcast is like your momma's bedtime stories turned inside out, sprinkled with a healthy dose of terror. Buckle up folks, and prepare for a ghoulishly glorious ride! Disclaimer: don't blame us for any monster-filled nightmares!"

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13

"Snuggle up with the podcast 'Story,' a haven for all those who are fanatic for fantastic tales. Turning the table on yo-yo dieting of your imagination, the host spins one enchanting narrative skein after another. Just as you’re digesting one, the next appetizing anecdotage is being served. In an homage to the time-honored spoken word tradition, 'Story' caters to adults yearning for a la carte escapism. Populated by everything from the lovable rogues to the prodigal sons, the podcast is like a melting pot of narratives. Just like being the only dog at a cat party, Story never fails to make its listeners stand on the edge of their sitting spaces. So, put on your coziest slippers, grab a cuppa, and let 'Story' transport you to a world of wonder and whimsy."

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14

From the groovy sound-effects department of vintage whodunnits, comes the fabulous Radio Detective Story Hour! The charming host, Jim Widner, having had experience as a voice-over artist and a professor, juggles a penchant for pulp fiction with academic diligence. Tighten your trench coats, you armchair gumshoes! This podcast delves into the dark back-alleyways of the golden age of detective radio dramas. Widner spins tales from the likes of famous slueths Sherlock Holmes to Sam Spade - and they're as delightfully gritty as a classic noir flick. The perfect listen for those who enjoy a vintage whiff of crime, suspense, and strong brew of mystery! It's witty, nostalgic and of course, you'll be hooked till the last minute! Forget Clue, the game, because this is your real deal! Bingo! Uh, Bing... you did well.

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15

Get ready for a rug pull because "True Story" podcast spills some real beans that can shake your belief system! Hosts, who prefer to stay anonymous, leave no stone unturned and venture deep into the narratives shared by our everyday Joe's and Jane's, runway models, astronauts, and even lighthouse keepers. These aren't your run-of-the-mill stories but extraordinary tales from this ordinary world. From fascinating and spooky to just outright hilarious anecdotes, it's a rollercoaster ride. So, if you're the curious species, and mystery, humor, and the unexpected tantalize you then look no further. Put on your earmuffs, because every episode is a mind-boggle...but don't just take our word for it, lend an ear for a hearty reveal!

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16

Buckle up and tune into 'A New Untold Story', the brainchild of a reformed high-school debate champ gone rogue. Providing a chuckle-a-minute auditory rollercoaster, this podcast is designed to send your funny bones into overdrive. Brimming with strange stories and riveting anecdotes from across the cosmos and tickling one unheard tale at a time, this podcast is a magnet for those hungry for the bizarre and extraordinary. In one sparkling episode, 'Do Penguins Laugh?', our enigmatic host explores if our Antarctic friends are secret stand-up comedians. This show certifies it's perfectly fine to transform your curiosity into a fun, ridiculous journey! Step into the unconventional, where hilarity meets the peculiar, and bring the popcorn while you're at it!

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17

"Hope in Darkness: The Josh Holt Story" is a riveting panorama of drama, courage, and well, hope plucked from the depths of despair. Our star highlights: Josh Holt himself, a geeky, harmless American who traded his ordinary life for an extraordinary (and unintentional) role in the political theatre of Venezuela! His co-star? Venezuela's notorious El Helicoide prison and its vibrant collage of characters. Our intrepid host, Becky Bruce, brilliantly navigates you through Josh's odd transformation from a suburban Mormon lad to a political pawn. Target audience: anyone with a heartbeat and love for a good story. As the show unfolds, you'll feel like an armchair detective, hostage negotiator and international diplomat all at once. So buckle up, folks, this ain't just a podcast - it's a wild globe-trotting adventure of faith, resilience and indeed, hope in darkness.

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18

'Artful Popstar Pandemonium' reigns as 'Toxic: The Britney Spears Story' takes to the airwaves. This riveting podcast acts as your trusty microphone, amplifying the hush-hush reports of Britney Spears’ infamous conservatorship. Hosts Tess Barker and Barbara Gray, pop-culture savants, dive deep into the Britney enigma, revealing a tale of fame and legal chaos—because who said law and pop didn't mix? Its target audience? An eclectic blend of pop junkies, legal whizz-kids, and anyone keen to explore the powers that 'Oops!'...control our popstars. Expect stand-out episodes like 'Piece Of Me', which unpacks the paradox of a global superstar trapped by her success. Tune in to enjoy this fascinating melodrama, because sometimes life is just a little bit 'Toxic'.

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19

Injecting a dose of reality into your earbuds, the True Story podcast showcases a quirky and raw collection of real-life stories, recounted by those who lived them. Hosts, the dynamically ordinary Jason and Todd, rip open Pandora’s box of human experiences—traditionally confined to living rooms, campfires, and, dare we say it, therapy sessions. This podcast is a go-to for anyone who has ever had a life, known someone with a life, or is considering getting a life. Featuring jaunty tales of adventure, misadventure, love, heartbreak, and those weird noises your car makes, True Story delivers authenticity, one episode at a time. Swing by for a lesson in 'Living Life Unfiltered,' and you'll find there's a rugrat in pajamas and an alien abductee in all of us. So grab a cuppa, hover over that play button, and dive headfirst into the unpredictable sea of humanity True Story explores.

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20

Sharpen your funny bone and brace yourself for a clean humor overload, all courtesy of That Story Show Clean Comedy Podcast. Hosted by James Kennison and John Steinklauber, two guys who can turn any everyday tale into a roll-on-the-floor-giggling fit. This podcast is designed for those who appreciate humor sans vulgarity. Our dynamic duo believes a day without laughter is a day wasted, hence they've created this laughter-spewing, rib-tickling aura that will have you gasping for air. You’ll find everyday life stories sprinkled with a comedic twist. Shining a spotlight on hilarious episodes like "The Snot Rocket Tragedy", they prove you don't need to be crude to be funny. So, buckle in, podcast junkies! Laughter, life lessons, and squeaky-clean comedy are just a play button away!

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21

Strap in folks, as "Cover Story" is here to jazz up your podcast playlist! Hosted by a duo that’s zanier than Batman and Robin, they peel back the covers of the world’s most intriguing stories. It's the perfect listen for those with a curious soul and an adventurous spirit – oh, and a healthy appetite for mystery. From gripping tales that keep you on the edge, to softer shared moments that warm your heart, there’s something for everyone. Its crown jewel? An episode exploring why toast always seems to land butter side down. Sound absurd? Well so you thought! Join them in their weekly quest for the unexpected; after all, every cover has a story. "Cover Story" – turning the bizarre into the riveting, one episode at a time.

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22

Fasten your seatbelts and tune into The Rest of the Story Podcast, an auditory delight hosted by a pro who adores a good cliffhanger. This podcast's driving engine is its affinity for podcasting's less charted territories, presenting stories with twist endings that will have you laughing, gasping, and begging for more. Aimed at curious souls always hungry for a 'what happened next', this narrative juggernaut proves life's most intriguing are all around us, lingering in the details. So press play and venture towards the less-told tales of history, culture, and human experiences. One notable episode features an enigmatic incident at a Victorian dinner party gone awry, with a twist that could embarrass Sherlock Holmes. Listen up! There's always more to the story, and this podcast proves that point with an exclamation mark at the end!

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23

Ladies and gents, let me introduce you to "Israel Story," a podcast that turns the Holy Land into your personal audio adventure playground. Hosted by the fab-four of Mishy Harman, Roee Gilron, Yochai Maital and Shai Satran, it bitingly explores the culturally rich, yet complex tapestry of Israel, with all its contrasts and contradictions. Tailored for the curious listener, it dishes out content so diverse it could spark a craving for Shwarma… or make you ponder existential questions - all in the same episode. It's an audible dollop of hummus, served with a side of history, personal anecdotes, and interviews. Israel Story: Because who needs to binge-watch Netflix, when you can binge-listen to Israel's riveting saga instead? Guaranteed more gripping than your favorite thriller novel. Tune in, folks!

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24

Slide into the zany world of animation with 'Drawn: The Story of Animation'. This hip bopping, color popping podcast dives into the stories behind your favorite cartoons and their creators. Hosted by animation superfan Holly Frey, whose enthusiasm rivals a kid on Saturday morning cartoons, it’s pure ear-candy for animation addicts and artists. Not just for kids, this podcast is perfect for those 90’s babies longing for a nostalgia fix or the hardcore animation aficionado wanting the behind-the-scenes scoop. Thrill to tales of rebellious rabbits, mirthful mice and more. Warning: contains episodes known to induce outbursts of 'Zoinks!' and spontaneous doodling. So, slap on those headphones, grab your cereal bowl, and prepare to be drawn into the wacky parallel universe of animation.

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