Tech
US punts renewal of threat data sharing law to September | Computer Weekly
The United States’ Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act of 2015 – CISA 2015 – which came within a hair’s breadth of lapsing for good at the end of 2025, will now likely be extended through to the end of September as part of a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding package for 2026.
The DHS Appropriations Act narrowly passed the House of Representatives on Thursday 22 January, overcoming Democrat objections to funding the controversial Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency, which falls under the department’s remit. It will head to the Senate where it is expected to be taken up before the end of the month.
CISA 2015 enables organisations to report and share information on cyber security threats and incidents without fear of being on the receiving end of legal action as a result. The law was first enacted during the Obama years and contained a 10-year sunset clause allowing it to be revisited and revised.
By the autumn of 2025, legislators were making progress on a replacement but the federal government shutdown beginning at midnight on 1 October caused it to lapse briefly – although the true impact to real-world data-sharing appears to have been limited.
CISA 2015 was extended to the end of January 2026 as part of the agreement to reopen the government, and the latest extension should in theory buy time for Congress to figure out next steps.
Cynthia Kaiser, senior vice president of the Ransomware Research Center at Halcyon, said: “Any step forward in putting formal protections in place for information sharing between the private and public sectors should be seen as a positive. If this legislation is passed, industry will get renewed, but temporary safe harbour to share critical threat information.
“However, as 2025’s lapse in those protections made clear, we need a long-term solution. It’s critical that protecting cyber security information sharing is considered its own priority in Congress in order to maintain a strong national security posture,” she told Computer Weekly.
Mimecast CEO Marc van Zadelhoff said the extension was more than just legislative housekeeping but an acknowledgement that collaboration is one of the strongest cyber defence strategies there is.
“After its brief but concerning lapse during October’s government shutdown, CISA’s renewal reinforces a critical principle: transparency isn’t a liability, but an operational advantage,” he said.
“The extension provides what security leaders need most: legal protection to share threat intelligence without fear of becoming scapegoats. This protection is foundational. Without it, organisations operate in isolation, creating exploitable gaps that adversaries are quick to leverage. Just as cyber security risk is shared across the ecosystem, accountability must be distributed accordingly.
He added: “More importantly, this extension creates an opportunity to evolve our approach, moving from reactive disclosure toward structured, proactive intelligence sharing. Every incident, regardless of scale, becomes a learning opportunity that strengthens not just individual organisations, but entire industries and national security infrastructure.”
Zadelhoff advised cyber leaders to use the nine-month window strategically, describing it as a golden opportunity to embed accountability into operational processes, strengthen cross-sector collaboration, and improve how threat intelligence flows through the ecosystem. This means establishing clear protocols for what gets shared, when, and with whom, turning compliance activities into genuine security advantages.
“CISA 2015 represents more than regulatory obligation. It’s about building a culture where shared responsibility, proactive defense, and collective insight become the foundation of how we approach cyber security. The extension gives us time to get this right,” he said.
Cyber agency funding
Besides the work of multiple other agencies sitting under its umbrella, the DHS Appropriations Act also sets out annual funding and strategic missions for the US’ Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) – which performs a similar function to the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and was the subject of deep cuts last year.
All told, the Act provides a total of $2.6bn (£1.9bn) to fund CISA this year, down on previous years, of which $763m will be directed towards cyber operations, including vulnerability management, capacity building, and threat hunting. It also includes some reductions to redundant, unauthorised or duplicate programmes at CISA.
It also provides an additional $20m to fund “critical” at CISA to counter unspecified cyber threats from China.
The Act furthermore points to a potential shake-up of how the agency engages with other organisations and partners on the global stage, instructing it to coordinate with other federal government departments to “assess ongoing and recently completed cyber security engagement activities with international partners.”
These activities include requests for support, technical assistance, and expertise given to other governments and critical infrastructure owners and operators outside the US.
Towards the end of 2026 – depending on when the funding package gets the go-ahead – the Act directs CISA to provide a report on processes for and barriers to providing these services, and the time and cost of such engagement.
Merino wool is a super fiber. The best merino wool clothing somehow manages to be comfortable in 95-degree heat, and merino base layers keep you warm well below freezing. Unlike synthetic fibers derived from petroleum, merino wool is natural and renewable.
Merino wool’s versatility means there’s a bewildering array of blends and options to choose from. Here are our favorite merino wool products that we’ve tested by wearing and washing (usually in cold water, and hung to dry, although we do machine dry them just to see what happens) over the course of months and even years in some cases. Once you’re done here, don’t forget to check out the rest of our apparel guides, like the Best Merino Wool T-Shirts, Best Base Layers, Best Puffer Jackets, Best Hoodies, and Best Hiking Boots.
Updated April 2026: We’ve changed out top pick boxers to Wool & Prince, added more hoodies, and the Ibex women’s Goat short sleeve. We also updated prices and links throughout.
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Why Is Merino Wool So Great?
Merino wool is great because you’re stealing a sheep’s ability to keep itself warm or cool based on the temperatures it’s in, a process often referred to as thermoregulation. If you’ve only ever worn the sort of itchy wool sweaters your proverbial grandmother supposedly made, you might wonder what all the fuss is. The answer is that Merino sheep have thinner, softer wool, which has evolved to keep them comfortable across a wide range of temperatures and is comfortable to wear next to your skin. Wool is sustainable, too.
One sheep can produce 4 to 5 pounds of wool per year. That’s because the sheep that make merino wool drink only the purest alpine waters and study the art of comfort under the tutelage of those stuck-up Pashmina goats, who, let’s face it, might know a thing or two about wonderfully pillowy softness. Just kidding. Merino sheep do have that softer wool though, and merino wool is a remarkable fabric that’s become the cornerstone of my wardrobe.
Merino wool comes in different weights, which you will frequently see listed as “200 gsm” or something similar. (The “gsm” refers to grams per square meter, sometimes listed as g/m.) What’s important is the scale and where your garment falls on it. At the low end, you have T-shirts and underwear, which are typically 150 gsm, though we have seen some as low as 120 gsm. Generally, anything below 200 gsm will be a good base layer or T-shirt. From 200 to 300 gsm are your mid-layers, and anything above 300 is a heavier garment.
If you’re more familiar with synthetic ratings like those often used on fleece, know that, in my experience, about 120–160 gsm wool corresponds to 100-weight fleece, 160–200 gsm wool roughly matches 200-weight fleece and 200+ wool is like 300-weight fleece. In every instance, the wool is warmer because it’s better at trapping heat, especially in the wind. (That said, there are reasons to go with fleece at times, like how incredibly lightweight it can be.)
Nuyarn is a merino wool/synthetic hybrid weave, wherein merino wool is wrapped around a nylon core for warmth, lightness, and extra durability. The idea is to get the temperature regulation benefits of merino, but to add some of the longevity of nylon. In my experience, Nuyarn mostly works. It’s our top pick for base layers, though I find it less necessary in more casual garments, where I prefer 100 percent wool.
How to Care for Merino Wool
Most merino products will have care instructions. Most likely it will be to wash cold and lay flat to dry. The latter is important, as hanging wool to dry will stretch it out (because of the water weight). While most merino labels say the garment can be machine washed, my experience has been that hand-washing merino will extend its life. This is particularly true of very lightweight (150 gsm) merino base layers and T-shirts. The exception is Minus33’s Microweight Raglan short sleeve T-shirt, which is machine-washable and dryer-friendly. Having done both to mine for over a year, I can vouch that it does indeed hold up.
I’ve never had a problem storing merino in my closet between wears, but for long-term storage, I recommend you take precautions against moths, which are notorious for eating holes in wool. I have lost merino garments to moths.
If you don’t want to smell like mothballs, there are better solutions. I make sure to wash and thoroughly dry whatever I am storing, then I seal it in a compression bag, like this. Another option is to put your merino garment in a cotton bag or otherwise wrap it in cotton and then put it in a plastic bin. It’s very important to make sure that the garment is completely dry before using any of these storage methods, otherwise your wool will smell musty and moldy. Other options include storing your garment in a cedar chest, which is a good natural deterrent for moths, or use moth traps or lavender sachets, which will repel the moths.
100 Percent Merino vs. Blends
Should you buy 100 percent merino or should you go for a blend? The answer is … it depends. On the garment in question, the use case, and your preferences. Probably the best way to find out is to try several and see what you like. One advantage to blends is that they’re stretchy, which makes them better for active pursuits like hiking, rock climbing, and the like. I like 100 percent merino for heavier mid-layers like hoodies or jackets, but I prefer blends for lighter layers. My experience has been that the closer I get to my skin, the more blend I want, with Nuyarn being my top pick for base layers.
There are also some alpaca blends out there that are also wonderfully soft (I love everything I’ve tried from Paka and Arms of Andes). If you’re one of the rare people who do find merino itchy, you might be allergic to lanolin, which is the skin oil produced by sheep. Alpacas don’t make lanolin, and the fibers are thinner and finer than merino. That makes alpaca warmer and softer, but it’s also more expensive.
Merino vs. Synthetic Fibers
Which is better? The answer again is … it depends (sorry). But usually merino. By synthetics, I generally mean polyester, nylon, polypropylene, rayon, or blends of these and other fabrics—everything but cotton, wool, and linen.
Synthetics generally win for wicking away sweat, which means they tend to feel drier. They also tend to dry faster, so when it comes to things like socks and underwear, even most “merino” options are often more than 50 percent synthetic. Synthetics are just better at handling moisture. How much this matters depends on a host of personal factors. For example, I feel weird and almost clammy in anything synthetic, so I don’t really care how much moisture it wicks away.
The downside to that moisture wicking is that synthetics retain odor. There are some chemical treatments that can help, but I’ve never tried anything synthetic that was as odor-resistant as merino wool.
Another difference is breathability. Synthetics are passable in this department, but it’s where merino really excels. If you’re hot and are hiking up an exposed slope toward an open pass and then dropping down into the cool of a forest, merino is your friend, because the breathability means less sweat to cool you when you get out of the sun. Again, how much this matters depends on your body.
The final factor worth thinking about is durability. In some cases, synthetics will last longer than pure merino, particularly in scenarios where abrasion is a major source of wear. To my mind, this is just another reason to choose a merino blend rather than going all the way to synthetics, but it’s something to think about if you do a lot of off-trail hiking or rock climbing—any activity where your clothes are going to take a beating.
Base Layers
To really see how remarkable merino wool is, start at the bottom, with the clothes next to your skin. Merino really shines as a base layer. It’s warmer for the weight, wicks moisture well, and unlike synthetic fabrics, merino stays stink-free for days of wear. Be sure to read our layering guide for more on how to put it all together and stay comfortable in any weather. We also have a separate guide to the best base layers if you want know all your options, but here are our top merino picks from that guide.
Best Lightweight Base Layer
The Ibex Woolies Pro Tech base layer crew is the best lightweight merino base layer we’ve tested. If you want a hard-wearing shirt, this it it. Woolies are Nuyarn (see above), which is 85 percent merino wool and 15 percent nylon—the merino wool is wrapped around a nylon core, which increases the warmth while being lighter (5 oz for the men’s large) and more durable. This is my top pick for all things technical. It’s what I bring hiking, backpacking, and it’s reviews editor Adrienne So’s pick for running, climbing and other high-aerobic activities when it’s cold. I also love the Woolies Pro Tech Bottoms ($115), which are what I bring backpacking in all but the warmest of weather. There’s also a quarter zip version of the shirt if you prefer.
Aside from comfort and warmth, a bit part of the reason we recommend Woolies is that they last. Ibex is what passes for a heritage company in this space; the company was founded in 1997 and has been cranking out merino garment for a long time. Adrienne’s parents bought her two sets of Ibex base layers in 2001 that she still wears today, in the year of our Lord 2025. Properly cared for, Woolies will keep you comfortable warm for years to come.
Best Heavyweight Base Layer
SmartWool
Merino Classic Long-Sleeve
When I want something a bit warmer than the lightweight Woolies above, I reach for Smartwool’s Classic long sleeve base layer. These may be the most popular merino shirts around, and for good reason: They’re very comfortable, tending to the looser side, feature heavy duty seams that don’t rub, and sit off the shoulder for more comfort when wearing a pack. At 87 percent merino wool (blended with nylon), these are also very durable while remaining lightweight (10.3 oz for a men’s large). This Smartwool shirt, along with the matching pants ($125), are great for chilly winter days.
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Courtesy of Unbound Merino
Unbound Merino
Long-Sleeve Merino Crew
The picks above all have what my wife calls “that sporty look,” which the industry refers to as “technical.” This 100 percent merino shirt from Unbound is the opposite: it just looks like a long sleeve shirt. It’s incredibly soft and while it does pill a bit if you run it through the dryer (don’t), it’s proved itself plenty durable—I’ve been wearing it constantly for over a year now and it still looks like it did when I got it. It’s the long-sleeve, base layer twin to our favorite T-shirt (see below). It’s on the thin side for a base layer, which makes it perfect for those cool weather mornings in the shoulder seasons. It’s versatile too; it can be used as a base layer, but it also works as a T-shirt when it’s not too chilly. Fit runs true to size, and if the one you want is sold out, be patient; Unbound frequently updates its stock.
There are so many! Here’s a few more to consider, but really, go read the base layer guide.
Turtle Fur
Merino Pipe Dream Neck Gaiter
Don’t forget your neck. I live in this Turtle Fur gaiter during the winter and I also use the lighter, superfine version for hiking at elevation in the summer to keep the sun off my neck without resorting to sunscreen. It’s wonderfully soft, not overly tight, and never smells.
Merino Mid Layers
Fleece has its place, but I rarely wear it these days. I prefer merino for my mid layers. It’s better at helping your body regulate its temperature. The one place fleece still wins for me is backpacking. It’s almost always lighter for comparable warmth, at least in mid layers.
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Like the Northern Lights or the McRib, the thickest Ibex wool hoodie appears irregularly and with some fanfare. The Mammoth Hoodie is indeed a big, furry beast of a garment—it’s basically the weight of the classic American Giant hoodie but made of 85 percent wool cut with 15 percent nylon for added warmth and stretch. Ibex says it’s the warmest hoodie they’ve ever made, and in my week of testing, I’ve used it in place of a jacket in mid-30s temps. It has an athletic cut with zippered pockets and thumb holes. I do wear a stocking hat with it in the cold because the scuba hood is meant to fit under a helmet which means it’s too small to provide enough warmth for my large shaved head on its own. —Martin Cizmar
When you have multiple keyboards installed, you can manage them on iOS by opening Settings, then choosing General > Keyboard > Keyboards. To swap between keyboards you’ve installed, tap and hold the globe icon that appears in the lower left corner of all your keyboards.
On Android, you can find your keyboards via System > Keyboard > On-screen keyboard from Settings. To switch between them, tap and hold on the globe icon that appears in the lower right corner whenever a keyboard is on the screen.
The Best Phone Keyboards to Try
Gboard (Android, iOS) is a good option to start with here. It’s preinstalled by default on Pixel phones, but it’s also an excellent keyboard pick for iPhones and Android phones not made by Google. It’s fast and clean, works really well for GIFs, emoji, and stickers, and supports glide typing (where you swipe over letters to form words rather than tapping on each individual letter).
Then there’s SwiftKey (Android, iOS), which is developed by Microsoft. As you might expect, there’s Copilot AI integration built right in, so if you’re stuck for something to say, you can use generative AI to do your writing for you. SwiftKey will also learn your writing style as you go, meaning autocorrections and suggestions get more accurate over time.
Typewise (Android, iOS) demonstrates how third-party keyboards can be a little out of the ordinary. It offers an unusual layout that makes use of hexagonal letter and character tiles, and which Typewise says can seriously speed up your typing speed. There’s also support for multiple languages, AI integrations, and custom gestures.
You may be familiar with Grammarly from the web and the desktop (and from the recent news about its missteps), but the grammar and spell checker service is also available as a keyboard on iOS and as a keyboard extension on Android. As well as checking on your writing, Grammarly puts AI front and center: You can get writing suggestions from a prompt, for example, or change the tone of an existing message with a couple of taps.
If you’re interested in customization options above everything else, then consider Mister Keyboard for iOS. It’s stacked with ways to tweak the look and layout of your iPhone’s keyboard, and to access features like emoji and the clipboard. Either pick one of the preset themes, or take pixel-by-pixel control over the keyboard.
Mister Keyboard isn’t available for Android, but there is theming support in Futo Keyboard for Android. It also includes smart autocorrect and text editing tools, and prides itself on its privacy. The keyboard app doesn’t ask for permission to connect to the internet, so you know that your keystrokes aren’t being sent anywhere.
Podcasts are to radio as streaming services are to television, and we’re lucky to be living through a golden age of both. But you need help finding the best podcasts worthy of your ear because, while you can find a podcast about almost anything these days, with great choice comes great mediocrity. Our expertly curated list will entertain and educate you, whether you’re doing the dishes, working out, commuting, or lazing in the bath.
For more advice, check out our guides on how to listen to more podcasts and the best podcasts for kids. If you’re feeling entrepreneurial, read our recommendations on the gear you need to start a podcast.
Updated March 2026: I added several podcasts, including Flesh and Code, The Outlaw Ocean, What We Spend, Midnight Burger, and Fonejacker.
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Podcast Subscriptions
There’s a world of free podcasts, but you can also snag various podcast subscriptions that provide different benefits, including ad-free listening, early episodes, and bonus content. Subscriptions can also get you access to virtual events and discounted merch, and let you support your favorite podcasters.
Audible Plus ($9 a month): With a growing catalog of exclusive podcasts, it’s worth considering Audible Plus. If you want to pick an audiobook each month, you need the Premium Plus subscription at $15 a month. This also now includes podcasts that were under the Wondery+ banner.
Tenderfoot TV Plus ($6 a month, $40 a year): This subscription gets you ad-free episodes and bonus content for Tenderfoot shows.
Pushkin Plus ($7 a month, $40 a year): There’s a decent selection of podcasts in different genres at Pushkin, and this subscription provides ad-free listening, bonus content, and support for any podcast app.
NPR Plus ($8 a month): This subscription gives you full access to around 25 NPR podcasts, exclusive shows, and shop discounts.
Best Tech Podcasts
Courtesy of Wondery
Flesh and Code
With human and AI relationships on the rise, this podcast tells the stories of people who have fallen in love with AI partners. With a gentle, empathetic approach, hosts Hannah Maguire and Suruthi Bala (Redhanded) unpick emotional human tales from what is becoming a big business with potentially tragic results.
Courtesy of Darknet Diaries
Anyone with an interest in hacking and cybercrime will appreciate this investigative podcast from Jack Rhysider. Densely packed and tightly edited, the show covers topics like Xbox hacking, a Greek wiretapping Vodafone scandal, and the impact of the NotPetya malware. Rhysider skillfully weaves informative narratives to unravel complex issues and keeps things mostly accessible, though it may occasionally get a little too technical for some folks.
Courtesy of ABC News
Sneak a peek behind the curtain, as this podcast follows the trials and tribulations of Elizabeth Holmes and Theranos, the tech startup that promised to disrupt blood testing but disintegrated in the face of whistleblowers, inaccurate results, and fraudulent claims. John Carreyrou’s reporting broke the scandal, and his book Bad Blood also spawned another interesting podcast. But The Dropout is a refreshingly clear recounting of the sordid tale, with season two tackling the trial.
Courtesy of Center for Humane Technology
Ex-Googler Tristan Harris, whom you may recognize from the Netflix documentary The Social Dilemma, talks with Aza Raskin about the dangers of living your life online. As cofounders of the Center for Humane Technology, they delve into the ethics of Big Tech, unpack the potential pitfalls, and try to imagine ways to harness technology for the good of humanity.
Courtesy of Dallas Taylor
Painstakingly researched, this podcast dives deep into the world of sound to explain everything from those sounds you always hear in movie trailers to car engines, choral music, the Netflix intro, and way beyond. Learn how iconic sounds were created, why certain sounds make us feel the way they do, and how sound enriches our lives in myriad ways.
Other Great Tech Podcasts
- WIRED’s Uncanny Valley: If we may be so bold, our flagship podcast offers an insider look at the people, power, and influence of Silicon Valley. Check out our Big Interview episodes hosted by Katie Drummond, and our roundtables with Zoë Schiffer, Brian Barrett, and Leah Feiger.
- The Lazarus Heist: This captivating investigation starts with the Sony hacks, digs into the involvement of North Korean hackers, and moves on to a billion-dollar cybertheft.
- Rabbit Hole: What is the internet doing to us? New York Times tech columnist Kevin Roose investigates things like the impact of algorithms on radicalization with a dreamy soundscape backdrop.
- Reply All: The beautifully paced, always convivial, and sorely missed Reply All dragged us down internet rabbit holes to investigate long-forgotten songs, phone scammers, hacked Snapchat accounts, and Team Fortress 2 bots.
- Click Here: With a focus on cybersecurity, this podcast unravels tales of hacking, misinformation, cyberterrorism, and more, with interviews and insight from experts in episodes that usually come in under half an hour.
- Waveform: Laid-back chats about the latest gadgets and developments in the world of tech with tech YouTuber Marques Brownlee (MKBHD) and cohost David Imel.
Best Society Podcasts
Courtesy of BBC
Things Fell Apart
If you want to understand the culture wars blighting our society, this well-researched podcast charts the slide into extremism. Through interviews with pro-lifers and anti-vaxxers, Ronson skillfully tackles unpalatable topics and roots out their inception, which is often based on misunderstanding. Jon Ronson is my favorite podcaster, as he brings an inquisitive, empathetic, and slightly neurotic intelligence to bear on fascinating and often surprising tales. We also recommend The Butterfly Effect (only on Audible) and The Last Days of August, which delve into the pornography industry, and So You’ve Been Publicly Shamed, about folks being canceled on the internet.
Courtesy of Apple
Wild Things: Siegfried and Roy
Famous German duo Siegfried and Roy were a mainstay on the Las Vegas show scene and performed about 30,000 times over five decades with an act that included white lions and tigers. When Roy was attacked live on stage, it made headlines everywhere. This podcast unravels their rise to stardom, touches on their controversial handling of wild animals, and digs into what happened that fateful night.
Courtesy of Pushkin Industries
In this eclectic mix of quirky stories, Malcolm Gladwell tackles misunderstood events and rarely discussed ideas, veering from subjects like Toyota’s car recall to underhand-throwing basketball legend Wilt Chamberlain, and even the firebombing of Tokyo at the end of World War II. Gladwell freely mixes research and opinion and enjoys challenging conventional views, but every episode serves up facts and stories you have likely never heard before.
Other Great Society Podcasts
- Mother, Neighbor, Russian Spy: You will be shocked by this true story about All-American Cindy Murphy with her two daughters, a house in the burbs, and a finance job in Manhattan, who turns out to be a deep cover Russian spy. There’s narration by Rosamund Pike and interviews with Cindy’s best friend and employer.
- Dreamtown: The Story of Adelanto: This story of a small California town that turns to cannabis cultivation to try and revive itself soon descends into chaos.
- Run Bambi Run: The riveting story of former Milwaukee police officer and Playboy Club bunny Laurie Bembenek, who was convicted of murdering her husband’s ex, despite conflicting evidence, and subsequently escaped prison and fought to have her conviction overturned.
- Missing Richard Simmons: Ebullient fitness guru Richard Simmons used to be everywhere, and this podcast charts an investigative reporter’s attempts to find out why he disappeared.
- The Moth: This podcast offers random folks the chance to tell deeply personal stories to a crowd of strangers and reinforces just how weird and wonderful humans are.
- The Trojan Horse Affair: This tale unpacks the British scandal over an alleged attempt by Islamist extremists to take over a Birmingham school and radicalize its students.
- Day X: A sobering look at the neo-Nazi specter in modern-day Germany, its possible infiltration of police and government, and a plan involving a military officer and a faked refugee identity.
- Project Unabom: Delving into the life of Ted Kaczynski, this podcast interviews his brother and recounts the FBI investigation to try to make sense of Kaczynski’s terrifying bombing spree.
- Will Be Wild: Curious about the January 6 insurrection? This podcast interviews people from both sides, examines the struggles of law enforcement and intelligence under Trump, and charts the anti-government extremism that led to this dark day for democracy.
Best Culture Podcasts
Courtesy of Imperative Entertainment
The Cost of Happiness: Tony Hsieh
The online shoe store Zappos made Tony Hsieh a billionaire, and this podcast investigates his $350 million investment in the Downtown Project in Las Vegas. His utopian vision of a happy worker village promised to revitalize the depressed heart of Sin City. The experimental community generated much excitement, but the charismatic and eccentric Hsieh soon ran into trouble.
Courtesy of Novel
Part of the way into this investigation of the Rain City Superhero Movement, a real-life group of self-proclaimed superheroes active in Seattle a few years ago, I had to stop listening and check that this wasn’t fiction. The podcast focuses on the arrogant Phoenix Jones, an ex-MMA fighter turned violent vigilante, and his fall from grace. But there is also a fascinating glimpse into the friendlier side of the movement, with some heroes handing out water to homeless folks and helping people in distress.
Courtesy of The LoudSpeakers Network
Brutally honest comedians with chemistry, Kid Fury and Crissle West recap and review the latest pop culture news and offer their opinions on everything. Insightful, funny, challenging, and refreshingly different from the podcast pack, these sprawling conversations run for a couple of hours, covering recent events and frequently touching on social justice, mental health, race, and sexual identity.
Courtesy of Forever35
Like eavesdropping on conversations between relatable besties, Forever35 started as a physical self-care podcast but expanded to discuss mental health, relationships, and any other topic that appeals to LA-based writers Doree Shafrir and Kate Spencer. They go from chatting about serums and creams to seasonal affective disorder and how to deal with a new stepmother as an adult—but always in a fun, inclusive, and down-to-earth way.
Other Great Culture Podcasts
- The Big Flop: Where did all go wrong? From Watergate to Tom Cruise, this podcast pokes fun at pop culture fails. Host Misha Brown unpacks each disaster with the help of different guests and keeps things breezy and silly.
- KILLED: Many magazine or newspaper stories are spiked every day, filed away, never to be seen again. This podcast delves into often shocking or disturbing stories silenced because they were considered dangerous, with interviews from the journalists who wrote them.
- Sounds Like a Cult: Fanatical fringe groups have never been so prevalent, and there’s something more than a little cultish about celebrity stans, multilevel marketing, and marathon runners—just three of the subjects this lighthearted podcast unpacks.
- Armchair Expert With Dax Shepard: Now a Spotify exclusive, this often funny and always insightful podcast seeks out human truths and sometimes finds them.
- Geek’s Guide to the Galaxy: Ably hosted by author David Barr Kirtley, this sci-fi fantasy extravaganza digs into fascinating topics with the help of accomplished guests like Brent Spiner and Steven Pinker.
- The Allusionist: If you are interested in words, this witty but accessible show will delight you as it charts the evolution of slang, explains euphemisms, and generally celebrates language.
Best True-Crime Podcasts
Courtesy of CBC
The Outlaw Ocean
This is gripping, incredibly dangerous-sounding investigative reporting on the lawless high seas. Extremely heavy listening, Ian Urbina exposes slave labor, unchecked environmental crimes, and murder on our oceans, beyond the reach of any authorities. This anthology series is riveting and vital, but can be deeply upsetting.
Courtesy of Las Vegas Review Journal
Mobbed Up: The Fight for Las Vegas
This fascinating tale, told through interviews with old gangsters, law enforcement, politicians, and journalists, charts the symbiotic rise of organized crime and Las Vegas. The first season recounts the FBI’s attempts to take down the “Hole in the Wall Gang” and reveals the true-life inspiration for movies like Casino. Season two tackles Jimmy Hoffa and the battle to oust the mafia from the Strip’s casinos.
Courtesy of Vox Media
Soothing host Phoebe Judge unravels captivating tales with reverence in this polished production about the spectrum of crime. Criminals, victims, lawyers, police, historians, and others whose lives have been altered by crime voice their stories as Judge carefully avoids the sensational and exploitative by respectfully teasing out the heart of each subject. A Criminal Plus subscription ($6 a month or $60 a year) gets you ad-free listening, bonus episodes, access to virtual events, and 20 percent off merch.
Courtesy of WBEZ
Give this compelling mystery five minutes and you’ll be hooked. The talented host, Brian Reed, investigates a small town in Alabama at the behest of eccentric horologist John B. McLemore, who claims the son of a wealthy family has gotten away with murder. The script, pacing, editing, music—basically everything about this production—are perfect.
Courtesy of Lava For Good
Painstakingly researched, thoughtfully told, and skillfully produced, this true-crime podcast hosted by Gilbert King focuses on a 1987 Florida murder. After an incompetent police investigation and distinctly dodgy trial, Leo Schofield was convicted of killing his wife. Despite fresh evidence and a confession from someone else, Schofield spent 35 years in prison.
Courtesy of Campside
Chameleon: Hollywood Con Queen
Murder may dominate this genre, but there are other fascinating stories worth telling in the world of crime, like this one, which is about a scammer posing as a Hollywood mogul. This weird, compelling, investigative podcast unwinds a satisfyingly twisty tale that’s mercifully free of blood and violence. The third season, Wild Boys, tells a completely new story, and the fifth tackles hypnotist Dr. Dante.
Courtesy of Wondery
Can you hire a hitman on the dark web? This compelling podcast uncovered a scam website offering murder for hire, but when the police suggested there wasn’t much they could do about it, host Carl Miller began tracking down the proposed victims to warn them. It’s a fascinating tale, full of ethical dilemmas, as Miller enlists local journalists to help him get in touch with prospective victims all over the world and tell their stories. It may take a few episodes to get into, and the prevalence of misogynistic murderers is depressing, but this is a gripping show with good intentions.
Other Great True-Crime Podcasts
- Someone Knows Something: David Ridgen skillfully and sensitively interviews bereft families about cold cases and investigates to try and figure out what really happened. There are several seasons of this harrowing podcast and it is beautifully made.
- West Cork: This engrossing, nuanced, and insightful podcast investigates the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier which shocked bucolic West Cork in Ireland. A local reporter inserts himself into the story and soon becomes the chief suspect.
- Cold: Investigative journalist Dave Cawley investigates missing persons cases, starting with the tragic tale of Susan Powell. Well-researched and respectful, this slow-burn podcast is a must for true crime fans.
- The Thing About Pam: Beautifully narrated by Keith Morrison, this podcast is a rollercoaster ride that gets weirder as it goes on. This case inspired a mini-series with Renée Zellweger playing Pam.
- Your Own Backyard: This sensitive and meticulous investigation into the disappearance of Kristin Smart from Cal Poly in 1996 uncovered fresh leads for detectives and doggedly fought for justice.
- Who Killed Daphne: Investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia was murdered by a car bomb in Malta, and this podcast delves into her work exposing the unscrupulous elite to identify her killers.
- The Clearing: The families of serial killers often seek obscurity (understandably), but that means we never hear their stories. That’s something this podcast about April Balascio, daughter of American serial killer Edward Wayne Edwards, rectifies.
- The Trials of Frank Carson: Police and prosecutors go after the defense attorney who has been beating them in court for years, sparking accusations of conspiracy and one of the longest trials in US history.
- Sweet Bobby: This British catfishing tale charts successful radio presenter Kirat’s relationship with handsome cardiologist Bobby, and things get impossibly weird.
- Dr. Death: A gripping podcast that focuses on incompetent or psychopathic (maybe both) ex-surgeon Christopher Duntsch and exposes terrifying institutional failures.
- Crimetown: Taking a forensic approach to organized crime in American cities, this slick podcast comes from the supremely talented makers of The Jinx.
- Hunting Warhead: A journalist, a hacker, and some detectives go after a chilling child abuse ring led by a criminal known as Warhead in this tactfully told and thorough podcast.
- Love Janessa: Catfishing scams are big business, but why do so many use photos of Janessa Brazil? This podcast tracks her down to find out.
- The Evaporated: Gone With the Gods: Journalist Jake Adelstein dives deep into Japanese culture, pursuing his missing accountant and exploring the mysterious disappearances of thousands of people in Japan every year.
- Wisecrack: A stand-up comic tells the tale of his brush with a killer, sparking a true-crime podcaster to investigate.
- Aftermath: Hunt for the Anthrax Killer: A look at the FBI’s investigation into the Anthrax-laced letters that terrified the country in the aftermath of 9/11.
- The Ballad of Billy Balls: This beautifully made podcast delves into the death of punk musician Billy Balls in early ‘80s New York.
- The Retrievals: A shocking look at how badly ignored and mistreated female patients often are by contemporary medicine.
Best Science Podcasts
Courtesy of Ologies
Lighthearted, enthusiastic, and endlessly curious host Alie Ward interviews smart people about their specialist subjects. This accessible podcast covers many topics from a scientific perspective and delights in diving down random rabbit holes. Episodes have covered the sun, pelicans, and repulsion.
Courtesy of Aubrey Gordon & Michael Hobbes
The worlds of wellness and weight loss are awash with questionable products and advice, so a podcast to debunk fads and junk science with reasoned argument and research is welcome. It’s more fun than it sounds, thanks to the entertaining hosts, and there’s even a fascinating episode on “snake oil” that recounts the history of health scams.
Courtesy of NPR
An absorbing deep dive into human behavior with the help of psychologists, sociologists, and other experts, Hidden Brain is densely packed with informative nuggets. The host, NPR’s accomplished science correspondent Shankar Vedantam, renders complex ideas accessible and offers insight into the inner workings of our minds.
Courtesy of BBC
This whimsical show, hosted by physicist Brian Cox and comedian Robin Ince, poses questions like “Does time exist?.” These are then debated by a diverse panel of three guests, usually a mix of experts and entertainers. Definitive answers are in short supply, but it’s always articulate, enthusiastic, and thought-provoking.
Other Great Science Podcasts
- Stephen Fry’s Inside Your Mind: Listen to Stephen Fry tell easily digestible stories about the brain, drawing on research from neuroscientists, psychologists, anthropologists, and philosophers.
- Houston, We Have a Podcast: Anyone interested in spaceflight must give NASA’s official podcast a listen, for interviews with astronauts and scientists.
- Science Rules!: Bill Nye, the science guy, teams up with science writer Corey Powell to grill experts on all sorts of interesting science-related topics.
- Stuff You Should Know: Prizing knowledge for its own sake and provoking healthy curiosity, this podcast is comical, charming, and full of interesting conversational nuggets.
- From First Principles: Two Princeton graduates (one PhD, as they jokingly point out), cover the top science news of the week, breaking down complex research into fun and understandable stories anyone can get excited about.
Best Economics Podcasts
Courtesy of Audacy
What We Spend
For something so important to modern life that we all have to grapple with, it’s weird how taboo it is to discuss your finances. This fascinating podcast delves into the financial lives of ordinary people, from lawyers to copywriters to the working homeless, revealing how much they earn and exactly what they spend it on.
Courtesy of NPR
This Planet Money spin-off delivers digestible, fast-paced, well-told stories about business and the economy, tackling topics that range from TikTok marketing to opioid nasal sprays and ticket scalpers. Each enlightening episode comes in under 10 minutes and serves as a quick primer that will leave you feeling well-informed.
Courtesy of Freakonomics Radio Network
Promising to delve into the “hidden side of everything,” this long-running, data-driven show is hosted by Stephen J. Dubner, co-author of the Freakonomics books, and it regularly features economist Steven Levitt. It’s a clever mix of economics and pop culture that flows easily and balances entertainment with education, presenting both sides of debates while consulting relevant guests.
Courtesy of Macro Musings
If you long to understand the economy better, this topical show, hosted by David Beckworth of the Mercatus Center, interrogates a diverse line-up of economists, professionals, and academics to bring you invaluable insights. It takes a serious look at macroeconomics and monetary policy, but the guests do a solid job of unpacking complex topics.
Other Great Economics Podcasts
- Scene on Radio: Capitalism: As we descend into increasingly dystopian late-stage capitalism, this intelligent deep dive outlines its history and explores how it might be reformed or radically overhauled.
- Conversations with Tyler: American economist Tyler Cowen interrogates some of the world’s smartest people in this intellectually challenging interview podcast.
- Planet Money: This top-notch podcast has entertaining, digestible, and relatable stories about the economy, unraveling everything from health care to income taxes.
- EconTalk: This no-frills show sees economist Russ Roberts engage in sprawling conversations with writers and academics on a range of economics topics.
Best Business Podcasts
Courtesy of Wondery
This NPR podcast hosted by Guy Raz explores the stories behind some of the biggest companies in the world from the perspective of the innovators and entrepreneurs who built them. Expect cautionary tales, nuggets of wisdom, and business lessons galore in probing and insightful interviews that reveal a lot about their subjects and what drove them.
Courtesy of Steven Bartlett
The Diary of a CEO With Steven Bartlett
Serial entrepreneur Steven Bartlett built a successful business from nothing and is now an investor on Dragons Den (the UK’s Shark Tank). He talks frankly about his own experiences and interviews various CEOs to find out why they started their businesses and how they guided them to success. Sprawling discussions range from personal life challenges and mental health to business strategies and advice.
Courtesy of TED/Audio Collective
Expertly hosted by organizational psychologist Adam Grant, this podcast offers practical advice on tackling various issues you are sure to encounter in the average job. The show features interesting psychological perspectives on everything, from how to rethink a poor decision to crafting a great pitch to dealing with burnout. The podcast also boasts insightful interviews with business leaders.
Other Great Business Podcasts
- The Pitch: Fans of Shark Tank will enjoy this podcast, which features entrepreneurs pitching investors to secure real money for their startups.
- Ask Martin Lewis: Personal finance guru Martin Lewis has been helping folks in the UK save money for years and provides straightforward financial advice here.
- BizChix: This podcast from business coach Natalie Eckdahl is aimed squarely at female entrepreneurs and is packed with no-nonsense expert advice.
- Teamistry: With a focus on teams and what they can achieve, the latest season of this podcast tells the fascinating story of the supersonic passenger jet Concorde.
Best Celebrity Interview Podcasts
Courtesy of Adam Buxton
Consummate conversationalist Adam Buxton is always witty and well-prepared, and he has interviewed many interesting people throughout his long-running show, from Charlie Brooker to Jeff Goldblum. Ostensibly rambling, Buxton skillfully pulls fascinating insights from his interview subjects, bouncing between their personal lives, work, and popular culture with seeming ease.
Courtesy of Wondery
Life Is Short With Justin Long
Likable actor Justin Long and his brother Christian host this enthusiastic and sprawling interview show, where they chat with guests like Zack Snyder, Kristen Bell, and Billy Crudup. The siblings get sidetracked by nostalgic reminiscences and occasional bickering, which sort of makes the show, but they are always generous and kind to their guests.
Courtesy of Wondery
Charming and goofy, this conversational podcast stars Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, and Sean Hayes, and they always have a surprise celebrity guest, like Ryan Reynolds or Reese Witherspoon. It is warm, gentle, and often laugh-out-loud funny, but don’t expect challenging questions or bared souls.
Other Great Celebrity Interview Podcasts:
- WTF With Marc Maron: Self-deprecating, sardonic, supremely skilled interviewer Marc Maron interviews some of the world’s most famous people, from Barack Obama to Paul McCartney.
- Grounded With Louis Theroux: A soothingly gentle facade belies Louis Theroux’s ability to draw fascinating insights from his subjects with tact and humor.
- Where There’s a Will, There’s a Wake: Kathy Burke laughs in the face of death, asking guests like Stewart Lee and Dawn French how they’d like to die, what sort of funeral they want, and who they plan to haunt.
- Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend: Fans of Conan’s late-night talk shows will feel right at home here as the host interviews celebrities like Ben Stiller and Ted Danson. He hosts it alongside his long–time assistant-turned-friend Sona Movsesian and Matt Gourley.
- Mad, Sad and Bad with Paloma Faith: Singer Paloma Faith invites all kinds of celebs to discuss the most challenging moments of their lives.
Best Sports Podcasts
Courtesy of Goalhanger
With long-term Match of the Day host Gary Lineker about to leave the show, this soccer podcast, cohosted by no-nonsense Alan Shearer and the infectiously enthusiastic Micah Richards is a great way to keep up with the legendary England striker. It’s a relaxed, jokey, but often insightful chat among top-level pros past and present, covering the latest Premiership matches and wider football news. It’s just a shame there are so many ads.
Courtesy of Wondery
Epic rivalries and long-anticipated showdowns are a massive part of the enduring appeal of sports, and this slick production homes in on them. Rivalries like Federer vs. Nadal in tennis and Tyson vs. Holyfield in boxing are unpacked over a few episodes apiece by host Dan Rubenstein, who digs into their backgrounds to understand why some face-offs get so highly charged.
Courtesy of The Ringer
This hugely popular sports podcast features fast-paced roundtable conversations with athletes and celebrities that usually focus on the NFL or NBA. Unfiltered opinions, witty remarks, and encyclopedic sports knowledge collide, but this is enthusiastic and accessible enough for casual sports fans to enjoy.
Courtesy of The Athletic
Primarily focused on baseball, this long-running podcast sometimes covers other sports and often meanders into comical conversations. Guests offer amusing anecdotes, but the chemistry between hosts Joe Posnanski and Michael Schur, who can debate endlessly about any old nonsense, is what makes this show so special.
Other Great Sports Podcasts
- Soccer A to Z: If you remember watching Soccer AM on lazy Saturday mornings this reunion podcast gets the gang back together, including Tim, Helen, Tubes, and the rest, for sprawling chats on soccer, interviews, anecdotes, and banter galore.
- Broomgate: A Curling Scandal: This comedic exploration of the furor around new broom-head technology that threatened to sweep away the curling competition will spark your interest in this gloriously peculiar sport.
- Undr the Cosh: Open and honest banter from ex-professional soccer (football) players, as they talk to current pros and recount hilarious on- and off-pitch anecdotes.
- Around the NFL: This funny, fast-paced look at the National Football League runs through all the latest football news, blending anecdotes and analysis.
- 32 Thoughts: A slickly produced, insightful dive into all the latest hockey news and controversy from knowledgeable hosts who bounce off each other.
Best Music Podcasts
Courtesy of Spotify
The enticing premise of this show is that a qualified fan of a band or artist (usually a music journalist or musician) will make the case for why they are great, punctuated by a curated playlist of their music. Hosted by the slightly skeptical Yasi Salek this podcast dives deep into legends and cult bands alike, and the episodes can run for hours. Some highlights include Guns n’ Roses, Pixies, Metallica, and Nine Inch Nails.
Courtesy of Aquarium Drunkard
This indie podcast is an eclectic mix of interviews mostly with musicians but also with artists, authors, and filmmakers, recorded by the folks at Aquarium Drunkard, which started as a music blog many moons ago. Recommended by WIRED senior editor and podcast host Michael Calore, these passionate, informed, and thought-provoking conversations will take you deep into the underground of popular culture, and may just turn you on to your new favorite tunes.
Courtesy of BBC
Famous people (recent guests include Cillian Murphy and Delia Smith) pick eight songs, a book, and a luxury item as the only things they can take to a desert island. This wonderful premise offers sometimes surprising insights into the guests as they explain their choices. This legendary podcast started in 1942 and would be equally at home in the celebrity interview section.
Courtesy of Tyler Mahan Coe
You don’t have to be a country music fan to enjoy this fascinating podcast that charts the history of country music, warts and all. Host Tyler Mahan Coe grew up traveling the country with his father’s band and thoroughly researched every episode from his home in Nashville. The first season touches on Loretta Lynn, Bobby Gentry, and The Louvin Brothers, among others. The dysfunctional relationship of George Jones and Tammy Wynette and their meteoric rise is the core of season two.
Other Great Music Podcasts
- 60 Songs That Explain the 90s: A funny, thoughtful skip down nostalgia lane, as host Rob Harvilla (usually with a guest) dissects all the big tunes of the decade, some you love, some you hate, but he explains why they mattered.
- Song Exploder: Learn exactly what some of your most-loved tracks are about and how they came to be from the people who wrote and performed them.
- Lost Notes: Billed as the “greatest music stories never told” this podcast is a blend of music, interviews, and well-researched history that delivers fascinating insights.
- No Dogs in Space: This sweet, smart, and funny music history podcast delivers biographies of bands like the Beastie Boys, the Stooges, and Joy Division.
Best Movie Podcasts
Courtesy of Earwolf
We have all asked this question of a movie at some point but hosts Paul Scheer, June Diane Raphael, and Jason Mantzoukas invite guest creatives to engage in heated and hilarious chats about some of the worst films ever. Movies that are so bad they are entertaining, from Face/Off to Junior to The Room, are dissected and thoroughly ridiculed.
Courtesy of BBC
Kermode and Mayo’s Film Review
Respected film critic Mark Kermode has an infectious love of movies and an incredible depth of knowledge about the world of film, and Simon Mayo is a veteran radio presenter. Together they discuss the latest movies, interview top-tier directors and actors, and invite views from their listeners. While the podcast ended earlier this year, the duo have a new show called Kermode & Mayo’s Take.
Courtesy of You Must Remember This
Diving into Hollywood myths to investigate and uncover the truth about infamous secrets, scandals, and legends from Tinseltown is a compelling premise, and talented creator and host Karina Longworth makes the most of it. Among the best shows are the “Dead Blondes” series, which includes Marilyn Monroe; the run on Manson; and the “Frances Farmer” episode.
Other Great Movie Podcasts
- The Director’s Cut: Listen to directors like Benicio del Toro, Steven Spielberg, and James Cameron being interviewed about their latest movies by their peers in roughly half-hour episodes.
- The Rewatchables: Bill Simmons and a rotating cast of cohosts discuss and analyze beloved movies and dig up interesting nuggets of trivia.
- Lights Camera Barstool: Reviews, interviews, rankings, and accessible chats about the movies with pop culture debates thrown in.
- Black Men Can’t Jump [in Hollywood]: This comedic movie review podcast highlights films featuring actors of color and analyzes the movies in depth, with an eye on race and diversity.
Best TV Podcasts
Courtesy of Headgum
Join comedian and actor Connor Ratliff on his mission to discover why he got fired from Band of Brothers. His amusing and honest account of how his big break went bad, reportedly because Tom Hanks thought he had “dead eyes,” is often very funny. An easy listen, peppered with celebrity guests like Seth Rogen, Elijah Wood, and Zach Braff, Dead Eyes affords listeners an insight into the world of auditions, acting triumphs, and humiliation.
Courtesy of HBO
HBO’s Succession Podcast
Whether you’re new to this captivating show or a long-time fan, the official podcast affords you a peek behind the curtain as it dissects episodes and explores character motivations. Roger Bennett interviews the main players from the show and then Kara Swisher steps in for the third season to interview the makers and various guests, from Mark Cuban to Anthony Scaramucci, to examine its impact and where it mirrors world events.
Courtesy of Wondery
Harsh Reality: The Story of Miriam Rivera
Recounting the tragic tale of the exploitative 2004 reality TV show There’s Something About Miriam, this podcast reveals just how cruel reality TV can get. Six young men set up house in an Ibizan villa to compete for the affection of Miriam and a £10,000 ($12,100) cash prize, but the show producers failed to tell them Miriam was trans. It’s a story that ended badly for everyone.
Courtesy of Steve Schirripa
Hosted by actors from the show, Michael Imperioli (Christopher Moltisanti) and Steve Schirripa (Bobby Baccalieri), this podcast is essential listening for fans. It runs through every episode with big-name guests, most of whom worked on or appeared on the show. It’s candid about the entertainment industry and packed to the brim with behind-the-scenes anecdotes and insider revelations.
- Shrink the Box: Actor Ben Bailey Smith talks with psychotherapist Sasha Bates as they put some of the best TV characters of all time (like Walter White and Omar Little) on the couch for analysis.
- Obsessed With…: This BBC podcast is hosted by celebrity superfans of various TV shows, including Killing Eve, Peaky Blinders, and Line of Duty.
- Fake Doctors, Real Friends: Rewatching Scrubs with Zach Braff and Donald Faison is a joyous experience that’s every bit as entertaining, poignant, and silly as the TV show.
- Welcome to Our Show: A warming dose of nostalgia and comfort for New Girl fans as Zooey Deschanel, Hannah Simone, and Lamorne Morris rewatch the show together.
Best Fiction Podcasts
Midnight Burger
This sometimes witty and irreverent, sometimes heartwarming and philosophical sci-fi drama is set in a time-traveling greasy spoon diner. With an interesting and eclectic cast of characters, solid writing, and a classic radio drama feel, what starts as a slow burn will soon have you hooked. It opens at 6.
Courtesy of The Paragon Collective
Horror fans will enjoy reliving the last gruesome moments of various corpses that have landed at the mysterious Roth-Lobdow Institute in this deliciously creepy and occasionally gross chiller. Wonderful narration from Lee Pace; acting from the likes of Denis O’Hare, Missi Pyle, and RuPaul; and clever sound design make for a memorably thrilling ride that you just know is going to end badly.
Courtesy of Hello from the Magic Tavern
Hello From the Magic Tavern
Thoroughly absurd, this fantasy improv-comedy show is the brainchild of Chicago comedian Arnie Niekamp, who falls through a portal at a Burger King and ends up in the magical world of Foon. The role-playing game and fantasy references come thick and fast, guests play bizarre characters of their own creation, and loyal listeners are rewarded with long-running gags and rich lore.
Courtesy of Battle Bird Productions
Short and sweet episodes of this sci-fi comedy-drama fit neatly into gaps in your day and whisk you away to a nightmare corporate dystopia in a galaxy fraught with evil artificial intelligence and monstrous aliens. Struggling repair technician Kilner gets stuck with a rich murder suspect, Samantha Trapp, after accidentally smuggling her across the galaxy in this polished show with a distinct 1980s feel.
Courtesy of Audible
Alien: Out of the Shadows
Set between Alien and Aliens this impressive fiction podcast follows a mining engineer who finds something other than precious minerals lurking in the deep. You can expect Xenomorphs galore, artificial intelligence, and a few surprises. Not to be confused with the audiobook, this audio drama features a full cast, including Rutger Hauer, Corey Johnson, and Kathryn Drysdale. It may not be very original, but fans of the movies will love this.
Other Great Fiction Podcasts
- Marigold Breach: This intriguing sci-fi tale about a soldier with a sentient AI implant stars Jameela Jamil and Manny Jacinto.
- DUST: This podcast started as an anthology of audio sci-fi stories from the likes of Philip K. Dick and Ray Bradbury but has changed things up with each new season.
- The Bright Sessions: The therapy sessions of mysterious psychologist Dr. Bright, bookended by voice notes, form intriguing short episodes, as all of her patients seem to have special abilities.
- Welcome to Night Vale: This pioneering creepy show is presented as a community radio broadcast from a desert town beset by paranormal and supernatural happenings.
Best History Podcasts
Courtesy of Vox Media
Utopian ideals have led to the development of some fascinating communities over the years, and season one of Nice Try! delves into their history, the hope that drove them, and why these communities ultimately failed. Season two moves on to lifestyle technology, from doorbells to vacuums, all designed to help us realize a personal utopia in the ideal home.
Courtesy of Revolutions
The modern world was shaped by some of the ideas that drove revolutions, and this deeply researched series runs through the English Civil War and American, French, Haitian, and Russian revolutions; Simon Bolivar’s liberation of South America; and more. The writing is concise, the narration is engaging, and host Mike Duncan does a fantastic job contextualizing revolutionary events and characters.
Courtesy of Radiotopia
A dreamy, emotional quality elevates these tales of seemingly random moments from the past, expertly told by the eloquent Nate DiMeo and backed by wonderful sound design. These distilled stories serve as historical snapshots of rarely discussed events, and it’s hard to think of another podcast as artful and poignant as this one.
Courtesy of Grim Mild
Assured in their divine right to rule over everyone, royal families were often incredibly dysfunctional. Author Dana Schwarz examines tyrannical regimes, murderous rampages, power struggles, and dynasty deaths. The madness of monarchs from various nations is concisely dissected in tightly scripted half-hour episodes that will leave you questioning the idea that there’s anything noble about their bloodlines.
Other Great History Podcasts
- Something True: Enjoy utterly bizarre true stories, as every episode of this podcast explores a seemingly forgotten historical footnote.
- Lore: Spooky and witty, this classic podcast plumbs history to uncover horrifying folklore, mythology, and pseudoscience.
- Medieval Death Trip: An enthusiastic and well-researched look at medieval times, this podcast offers a witty analysis of the primary texts left behind.
- Hardcore History: Relatable and endlessly fascinating, Dan Carlin brings history to life with his riveting narratives on notable events and periods, peppered with facts and hypothetical questions.
Best Food Podcasts
Courtesy of BBC
Learn all about the business, science, culture, and history behind the food we eat with half-hour insights into wide-ranging topics like chocolatiers, the best foods for new moms, or the history of banh mi. Engaging and informative, this is a fun listen that’s perfect to stick on while you whip up dinner.
Courtesy of Ramble
Whatever side of the titular, age-old debate you stand on (I’m with the British Sandwich Association), this fast-paced, often funny show will suck you in as it poses tough food-related questions and then debates them. Chefs Josh Scherer and Nicole Enayati decide whether American cheese is really cheese, if Popeye’s and In-N-Out are overrated, and what the best pasta shape is.
Courtesy of Gastropod
If your love of food extends to an interest in the history and science of everything from the humble potato to a soothing cup of tea to ever-polarizing licorice, then this podcast is for you. Knowledgeable cohosts Cynthia Graber and Nicola Twilley talk to experts and serve a feast of delicious bite-size facts that surprise and delight.
Courtesy of The Ringer
Celebrity chef Dave Chang, whom you may know from his Netflix show, Ugly Delicious, talks mostly about food, guilty pleasures, and the creative process with other chefs and restaurateurs. There is plenty here to satisfy foodies, but some of the funniest moments come when the show covers other random topics, like the perfect email sign-off or wearing shoes indoors.
Other Great Food Podcasts
- Out to Lunch With Jay Rayner: This podcast seats you at a top restaurant to eavesdrop on consummate food critic Jay Rayner with a celebrity guest at the next table.
- The Sporkful: You can learn a lot about people and culture through food, and this podcast proves it by serving up delectable bite-size insights.
Best Health and Wellness Podcasts
Courtesy of Lionrock
The Courage to Change: A Recovery Podcast
Whether you are struggling with addiction, childhood trauma, eating disorders, or something else, or you know someone who is, this accessible and inspirational podcast can help you examine why. Host Ashley Loeb Blassingame speaks from experience and offers practical advice to help you onto a healthier path. This podcast is honest, insightful, and emotional but ultimately heartwarming and uplifting.
Courtesy of LYT
Hosted by Yoga leader and physical therapist Lara Heimann, this podcast is a mix of Q&A sessions, interviews with experts, and motivational advice. It focuses on understanding your body and mind, but you will also find practical advice for chronic pain sufferers and different kinds of injuries, explanations of why and how yoga is good for you, and firsthand accounts of the positive impact yoga has on many lives.
Courtesy of Great Love Media
My Wakeup Call With Dr. Mark Goulston
Each episode sees psychiatrist Mark Goulston interview a notable person about the wake-up call moment that changed their path forever. He encourages them to interrogate what sparked their drive, made them want to be a better person, and led to their success. Some guests are better than others, but the podcast is closing in on 500 episodes, so there are plenty to choose from.
Other Great Health and Wellness Podcasts
- The Big Silence: Host Karena Dawn has conversations about mental health with an eclectic mix of therapists, psychologists, and ostensibly successful folks.
- Spiraling With Katie Dalebout and Serena Wolf: Candid chats about anxiety with advice on how to cope. The relatable hosts are open and honest about the anxious feelings that modern life can evoke.
- Huberman Lab: Host Andrew Huberman, a professor of neurobiology and ophthalmology at Stanford School of Medicine, interviews various experts to offer advice on optimizing your health and fitness.
Best Comedy Podcasts
Courtesy of Kayvan Novak
Fonejacker
Often absurd, usually juvenile, but always hilarious prank calls from Kayvan Novak, who you may know as the vampire Nandor the Relentless from the What We Do in the Shadows TV show. Novak revives some of his most memorable characters from his British sketch show (somehow 20 years old now), but it doesn’t matter if you’re familiar. This is still very funny.
Courtesy of Audible
Dara Ó Briain’s Timewasters
What better way to waste time than listening to lovable Irish presenter Dara Ó Briain preside over two comics arguing over who is the biggest time waster? From watching the intro of The Office every episode during a binge to learning a language you never use or losing years in a failed marriage, the guests run the gamut of time-wasting possibilities. It’s a shame there are only six episodes.
Courtesy of Global Player
Irreverent Irish chat with comedian Joanne McNally and TV presenter Vogue Williams as they put the world to rights. It feels like eavesdropping on brutally honest best pals as they discuss relationships, work woes, health issues, awkward social situations, and sometimes recent news. The down-to-earth pair liberally dole out a mix of sound and questionable advice that is frequently laugh-out-loud funny.
Courtesy of Shiny Ranga
Comedians and friends Tom Davis (the Wolf) and Romesh Ranganathan (the Owl) chat aimlessly and expertly poke fun at each other for around an hour. It’s often nostalgic, sometimes offers decent advice for listeners, and is always warmhearted and relatable.
Courtesy of Team Coco
Why Won’t You Date Me? With Nicole Byer
Perennially single stand-up comedian Nicole Byer is every bit as charming and funny here as in Netflix’s Nailed It baking show, but this podcast delves into some adult subjects. Byer is disarmingly open about her insecurities and struggles and seamlessly stirs in vulgar humor. She also hosts hilarious conversations with guest comedians.
Courtesy of Athletico Mince
Ostensibly a soccer (football) podcast, this surreal show is brought to life by lovable British comedy legend Bob Mortimer, with support from sidekick Andy Dawson. Tall tales about real footballers, complete with strange voices and fictional personalities, are mixed with songs, silly inside jokes, and rambling conversations. You don’t need to know anything about soccer to enjoy it.
Other Great Comedy Podcasts
- Old Harry’s Game: A sitcom set in hell, written by and starring Andy Hamilton as a jaded Satan, this deliciously satirical show may have landed in the late 90s but is still worth listening to. Slightly cheating here because this was a radio show rather than a podcast but you can get all the episodes online now.
- Locked Together: Only on Audible, this show features lockdown chats between comedian pals like Simon Pegg and Nick Frost or Rob Delaney and Sharon Horgan.
- My Neighbors Are Dead: The wonderful premise of this hit-and-miss improvised show is interviews with lesser-known characters from horror movies, like the caterer from Damien’s party in The Omen and the neighbors from Poltergeist.
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