The Best Podcasts In 2024

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Podcasts are exploding in popularity because they offer a simple way to learn about our deepest interests. Whether you want to learn more about investing and finance, how to live a healthier life, what is new in science and technology, or keep up with current events, an excellent podcast is waiting just for you!

And if you are looking for the best podcasts of all time, you have come to the right place!

BEST PODCASTS

Here is our list of the best podcasts covering a range of topics (best of all, these are the best free podcasts you can find):

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BEST BUSINESS AND FINANCE PODCAST: WE STUDY BILLIONAIRES

On We Study Billionaires, the world’s largest stock investing podcast, hosts Stig, Preston, William, Clay and Kyle interview and study famous financial billionaires, including Warren Buffett and Howard Marks. They teach you what they’ve learned, and how you can apply their investment strategies in the stock market. We Study Billionaires has now reached more than 150 million downloads.

The podcast feed has two other independent shows with different hosts:  Bitcoin Fundamentals, hosted by Preston Pysh, and Richer, Wiser, Happier, hosted by William Green.

Having started by studying Buffett nearly exclusively, Stig and Preston have done a great job over the years of transitioning the show’s coverage to more relevant, timely, and actionable ideas. Many value investing and Buffett aficionados are not able to pivot to new ideas, strategies, or concepts, such as Bitcoin, and macroeconomics, the way Stig and Preston have. On top of the wide variety of topics covered and the world-class guests, the show’s audio and editing quality is top-notch, which makes for a fantastic audio experience.

  • Hosts: Stig Brodersen, Preston Pysh, William Green, Clay Finck, and Kyle Grieve
  • Website: theinvestorspodcast.com
  • Release of new episodes: Tuesday (Bitcoin Fundamentals), Thursday (We Study Billionaires), and Saturday (Richer, Wiser, Happier)
  • Average length of episodes: 40 to 60 minutes
  • Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced
  • Topics covered: Stock investing, value investing, Bitcoin, blockchain, gold, macroeconomics, commodities, and more
biggerpockets

On BiggerPockets, hosts Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench get together to help you reach your financial goals, no matter what they are! Each week, they bring on a financial expert to discuss how to earn, save, spend smarter, and accumulate wealth.

Even though Mindy and Scott have extensive experience in real estate, the podcast covers a wide range of wealth-based topics. Some of their best episodes discuss the wealth transformations of guests going from broke to financially independent in just 10 years, how to replace your 9-5 job by buying a business, and how to retire decades before the standard 65 years.

They have a wealth of knowledge on wealth and do an excellent job of asking well-researched questions that you are sure to resonate with if you are interested in building your wealth!

  • Hosts: Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench
  • Website: biggerpockets.com/podcasts/money
  • Release of new episodes: Wednesday and Thursday
  • Average length of episodes: 30-45 minutes
  • Difficulty: Beginner to intermediate
  • Topics covered: Financial independence, investing, early retirement, business ownership, escaping debt, passive income

BEST HISTORY PODCAST: THE REST IS HISTORY

the rest is history

The Rest is History is the world’s most popular history podcast, hosted by Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook. They cover a wide range of historical topics with enthusiasm and humour. Tom and Dominic have terrific chemistry and make you feel like you are sitting down with them in a casual setting to discuss an interesting historical topic. Tom and Dominic go deep into the topics.

They have explored a wide range of topics, from Alexander The Great, WWII, Martin Luther, and the American Civil War to the Titanic and the history of chocolate.

They don’t host many guests, but Tom Hanks was on the show to discuss the moon landings! If you want to learn about history, this should be at the top of your list.

  • Hosts: Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook
  • Website: therestishistory.supportingcast.fm/
  • Release of new episodes: Every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday
  • Average length of episodes: 45 to 70 minutes
  • Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced
  • Topics covered: International history, American history
the american history teller

American History Tellers is hosted by Lindsay Graham, who discusses American history. He narrates parts of his episodes and is truly a gifted storyteller. His storytelling skills help you feel like you are a character in one of America’s most significant historical events, such as WWI, the Tulsa Race Massacre, the Salem witch Trials, J. Edgar Hoover’s FBI, Pirates, the Cold War, and much more.

The podcast’s production is excellent. Based on historical narratives, background audio is added to the episodes to bring out the environment in which the story takes place.

Lindsay Graham has a great voice and narrates multiple characters very well.

  • Host: Lindsay Graham
  • Website: wondery.com/shows/american-history-tellers/
  • Release of new episodes: Wednesday
  • Average length of episodes: 15 to 45 minutes
  • Difficulty: Beginner to intermediate
  • Topics covered: Formation of the US, Prohibition, the Gold Rush, US Military History, US politics.

BEST SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PODCAST: SCIENCE FRIDAY

science friday

Science Friday covers many topics, including technology, environmental science, biology, astronomy, and more. Ira Flatow, a well-seasoned science journalist, hosts the show. The podcast features a variety of scientific experts. Ira takes the listener through a conversation about a particular topic with their guest. The episodes tend to be in the shorter range (~15 minutes), so you’ll learn a lot in a short period!

You’ll learn about how sharks smell and how we can save Honeybees from parasitic mites. You’ll learn how AI is transforming education to what we can learn from metal-rich asteroids and much, much more.

The episodes are easy to follow, and Ira does a great job of simplifying concepts and using language that doesn’t require a dictionary! Whether you are a science enthusiast or just curious about the world, Science Friday will entertain and educate you!

  • Host: Ira Flatow
  • Website: sciencefriday.com
  • Release of new episodes: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday
  • Average length of episodes: 10 to 25 minutes
  • Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced
  • Topics covered: Astronomy, biology, technology, environment

Alternate: Science Vs

If you enjoy learning facts on various controversial and trending scientific topics, this podcast is for you. Host Wendy Zukerman examines topics through the lens of scientific evidence to give listeners the information they need to stay informed.

Major subjects for the show include diets, alternative medicine, social issues, anti-aging,

Zukerman’s approach is engaging, witty, and backed by solid scientific analysis, making it an entertaining and informative listen for anyone interested in understanding the truth behind popular debates and myths. She uses a mixture of her research, and she has guests on her show to discuss specific topics relevant to the subject.

  • Host: Wendy Zukerman
  • Website: gimletmedia.com/shows/science-vs/episodes
  • Release of new episodes: Every Thursday
  • Average length of episodes: 35 to 50 minutes
  • Difficulty: Beginner to intermediate
  • Topics covered: Science, myths, fads, health, supplements, anti-aging

BEST CURRENT EVENTS PODCAST: THE DAILY

the daily

The Daily is the gold standard for news in podcast form and is produced by the New York Times. Hosts Michael Barbaro and Sabrina Tavernise dive deep into the most pressing news topics of the day. The podcast is part of the New York Times and allows them to access the NY Times’ vast connections to discuss issues with leading sources. Episodes focus on a single topic ranging from politics and international affairs to science, culture and technology.

Michael Barbaro and Sabrina Tavernise are well known for their empathetic interviewing style. They both bring a wealth of experience and insights from their background in journalism. They ask probing questions and try to draw critical insights from their guests and industry experts. Their ability to keep things simple makes The Daily easily accessible to nearly anybody who wants to learn more about current events.

  • Host: Michael Barbaro and Sabrina Tavernise
  • Website: nytimes.com/column/the-daily
  • Release of new episodes: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday
  • Average length of episodes: 25 to 40 minutes
  • Difficulty: Beginner
  • Topics covered: Current events, politics, international affairs, technology, science, culture and social issues

Alternate: The Globalist

The Globalist

The Globalist is a podcast hosted by Emma Nelson and produced by Monacle. It analyzes and discusses international affairs, geopolitics, current events, economics, culture, and global trends. The Globalist was nominated for Best Daily Podcast in the 2020 British Podcast Awards.

Emma Nelson has extensive experience in journalism, working as a correspondent for BBC National News and BBC London. Like most good journalists, she asks questions that are on the listener’s mind, even if they are more challenging.

The Globalist is more of a one-stop shop for interesting current events. Each episode discusses various topics and doesn’t dive deep into one subject like The Daily. So, if you enjoy learning about global news, then the Globalist is for you.

  • Host: Emma Nelson
  • Website: monocle.com/radio/shows/the-globalist
  • Release of new episodes: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday
  • Average length of episodes: 60 minutes
  • Difficulty: Beginner to intermediate
  • Topics covered: International relations, economic trends, culture, environmental concerns, technology and innovation

BEST HEALTH AND WELLNESS PODCAST: HUBERMAN LAB

huberman lab

Dr. Andrew Huberman hosts the Huberman Lab podcast. Andrew is a neuroscientist and professor at Stanford University. The podcast covers topics related to neuroscience, psychology, physiology, and performance. The show is informative and practical as Dr. Huberman explores strategies for everyday problems, such as improving sleep, mental and physical well-being, and performance.

His shows are a mixture of solo episodes and episodes where he brings on guests. Prominent guests include Robert Greene, David Goggins, Rick Rubin, Matt Walker,

The Huberman Lab will help you gain insights into your brain and body that will help you live a healthier and more fulfilling life.

  • Host: Andrew Huberman
  • Website: hubermanlab.com
  • Release of new episodes: Monday
  • Average length of episodes: 120-180 minutes
  • Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced
  • Topics covered: Neuroscience, physiology, peak performance, psychology, biohacking, self-improvement
Feel Better Live More

Feel Better Live More is the #1 health podcast in the UK and Europe. Dr. Rangan Chatterjee, a medical doctor with experience in general practice, nutrition and lifestyle medicine, hosts it. The show focuses on actionable strategies to help listeners lead happier and healthier lives. Dr. Chatterjee hosts a variety of industry experts from many fields, such as medicine, psychology, nutrition, and fitness. In Feel Better Live More, you’ll learn about exciting topics like stress management, sleep optimization, exercise, food, and mental well-being.

Dr. Rangan Chatterjee has written multiple best-selling books, including “The 4 Pillar Plan” and “The Stress Solution.” He has a wealth of experience he’s gained over the years from working with patients and from his background in holistic health and wellness.

This podcast is a great listen for those looking to improve their stress management and sleep quality and adopt healthier eating habits or mindsets.

  • Host: Dr Rangan Chatterjee
  • Website: drchatterjee.com/blog/category/podcast
  • Release of new episodes: Wednesday and Friday
  • Average length of episodes: 90-120 minutes on Wednesday. 20-30 minutes on Friday.
  • Difficulty: Beginner to intermediate
  • Topics covered: Lifestyle, sleep, recovery, mental health, mindfulness, exercise

BEST LITERATURE PODCAST: THE NEW YORKER: FICTION

The New Yorker: Fiction podcast brings on esteemed writers to select and read a short story from The New Yorker. Deborah Treisman hosts the show. In each episode, she’s joined by a guest, who gives their personal insights into a piece and discusses themes, characters and literary techniques used in the fictional pieces.

Host Deborah Treisman has extensive experience as a fiction editor for The New Yorker. Throughout her episodes, she adds her own opinions and questions based on her understanding of literature. If you enjoy works of fiction, listening will help you gain a deeper understanding of the craft of writing.

  • Host: Deborah Treisman
  • Website: newyorker.com/podcast/fiction
  • Release of new episodes: First day of each month
  • Average length of episodes: 45 to 90 minutes
  • Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced
  • Topics covered: Short stories, authors, writing craft, literary themes, literary community

Alternate: Between the Covers

Between The Covers

Between The Covers is a podcast that explores literature, genres, authors, and themes. David Naiman hosts the podcast, which features interviews with renowned authors, poets, and other literary figures. Episodes offer a unique opportunity to gain insights into the creative process and literary inspiration.

The show has been featured in several popular outlets as one of the most notable book podcasts for writers and readers.

  • Host: David Naimon
  • Website: tinhouse.com/podcasts
  • Release of new episodes: Random days
  • Average length of episodes: 90 to 180 minutes
  • Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced
  • Topics covered: Author interviews, book reviews, book recommendations, literary analysis, writing craft, book industry insights

BEST MUSIC PODCAST: ALL SONGS CONSIDERED

all songs considered

All Songs Considered is a music podcast exploring various music genres, artists, and industry trends. Hosted by Robin Hilton and members of the NPR music family, the podcast features discussions on music, interviews with musicians, and curated playlists featuring new and upcoming artists as well as well-established music veterans.

Host Robin Hilton’s experience as a music critic and journalist helps him dissect music and discuss it thoughtfully and engagingly. If you want to uncover hidden gems in the form of great new music or artists, this podcast is for you!

  • Hosts: Robin Hilton and the NPR Music Family
  • Website: npr.org/podcasts/510019/all-songs-considered
  • Release of new episodes: Random release dates
  • Average length of episodes: 30 to 60 minutes
  • Difficulty: Beginner
  • Topics covered: New music releases, music trends, genres, artist interviews, artist profiles, music industry news and events, music recommendations
Rolling Stone Music Now

Rolling Stone Music Now dives deep into the music world, covering various music-related topics like musical analysis, industry trends, and album and artist reviews. The podcast is hosted by Brian Hiatt, who brings on guests each episode to explore music. You’ll get an insider perspective on the latest music industry news and retrospectives on famous artists and albums.

Host Brian Hiatt is a senior writer at Rolling Stone. He’s written over 70 cover stories for the magazine and has extensive experience in the music industry. The podcast covers a wide range of artists and genres from all over the world. So you’ll find something new and exciting no matter what music you like.

  • Host: Brian Hiatt
  • Release of new episodes: Random release dates
  • Average length of episodes: 30 to 50 minutes
  • Difficulty: Beginner
  • Topics covered: Music news, artist interviews and profiles, album review and analysis, music history, musical events

BEST SPORTS PODCAST: ESPN DAILY

ESPN Daily

ESPN Daily is a sports podcast that explores specific sports-related topics. It offers thought analysis, expert interviews, and exciting storytelling. Clinton Yates and a team of ESPN sports journalists host the podcast. It covers major US sports such as football, baseball, basketball, and NCAA sports, so whatever sport you follow, there will be something exciting to learn more about.

EPSN Daily approaches sports from a variety of angles. If you want to learn more about the theft of Jackie Robinson’s statue, the fashion of NCAA women’s sports, previews of major sporting events like the NCAA final four, previews of NFL free agency, why the NBA All-Star weekend is broken, and much more sports-related news, then this is the podcast for you.

  • Host: Clinton Yates and various ESPN experts
  • Release of new episodes: Monday through Friday
  • Average length of episodes: 30 minutes
  • Difficulty: Beginner to advanced
  • Topics covered: Major sporting events and news, team dynamics, athlete stories and profiles, game analysis
The Bill Simmons Podcast

The Bill Simmons podcast is one of the top sports podcasts in the world. Host Bill Simmons is a well-known sports columnist, author, and commentator. The podcast is more focused on the sports that Bill enjoys, which are basketball, football, and baseball. But he’ll mix in other topics like movies, television, and current events to keep things fresh.

Bill Simmons founded the popular sports and pop culture website The Ringer. He brings on a variety of regular guests, like Cousin Sal and “House,” with whom he has an excellent rapport. Bill and his regular guests inject humour into his sports analysis. Bill also shares funny personal stories about family and friends that are highly entertaining.

  • Host: Bill Simmons
  • Website: theringer.com/the-bill-simmons-podcast
  • Release of new episodes: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
  • Average length of episodes: 90 to 120 minutes
  • Difficulty: Beginner to intermediate
  • Topics covered: NBA, NFL, MLB, pop culture, current events, interviews, sports analysis, sports history

BEST SELF-HELP PODCAST: RICHER WISER HAPPIER

Richer Wiser Happier is a podcast by The Investors Podcast Network that covers not only building wealth but also how to do it on a journey full of wisdom and happiness. William Green hosts the show, and the title is based on his incredible book Richer, Wiser, Happier.

William interviews a new high-profile guest each week and focuses more on life lessons, experiences, reflections, and spirituality. His guest list has been incredible, hosting investing legends like Howard Marks, Ray Dalio, Joel Greenblatt, and Bill Miller.

William has interviewed plenty of legendary investors from the past, such as Sir John Templeton, Charlie Munger, and Jack Bogle. So, his experiences of being around the best investors in the world are profound. And he does an excellent job of asking great questions and adding deep insights to his conversations.

  • Host: William Green
  • Website: theinvestorspodcast.com/richer-wiser-happier
  • Release of new episodes: Saturdays, bi-monthly
  • Average length of episodes: 120 to 150 minutes
  • Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced
  • Topics covered: Wealth building, personal growth, personal development, happiness, fulfilment, mindset, psychology

Alternate: The Happiness Lab

The Happiness Lab

The Happiness Lab is a podcast exploring the science of happiness and discusses strategies for leading a fulfilling life. Host Laurie Santos covers many different subjects, from the power of laughing to how our perspectives on work affect our happiness to identifying our negative emotions and why giving can make us happier.

Dr. Laurie Santos is a psychology professor at Yale University. In each episode, she uses her expertise to help listeners better understand happiness. She draws wisdom from areas like psychology, neuroscience, and behavioural economics to uncover some of the biggest misconceptions around joy. Occasionally, she’ll bring on interesting guest speakers like Michael Pollan and Katie Couric.

If you’re searching for evidence-based ways to lead a life of contentment and fulfilment, improve gratitude practices, create stronger social connections, or reframe negative emotions, Dr. Santos will take care of you!

  • Host: Dr. Laurie Santos
  • Website: pushkin.fm/podcasts/the-happiness-lab-with-dr-laurie-santos
  • Release of new episodes: Sunday
  • Average length of episodes: 25 to 50 minutes
  • Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced
  • Topics covered: Positive psychology, behavioural science, mental health, relationships, social connections, personal growth, self-improvement

BEST ARTS AND CULTURE PODCAST: INTERSECTIONS: THE ART BASEL PODCAST

Intersections The Art Basel Podcast

Intersections: The Art Basel Podcast brings together leading artists, architects, gallerists, designers, musicians, and collectors to explore their passion for art. Episodes offer an in-depth look at diverse perspectives shaping the art world today. The podcast features interviews, discussions, and insights into emerging trends in contemporary art.

The show indeed covers a wide range of art and culture. Episodes cover topics like Rap, NFTs, the art market, museums, and books. This podcast is excellent for art lovers looking to gain a deeper appreciation of contemporary art and how it connects to the world around us.

  • Host: Marc Spiegler
  • Website: artbasel.com/stories/podcasts
  • Release of new episodes: Monthly
  • Average length of episodes: 30 to 45 minutes
  • Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced
  • Topics covered: Contemporary art trends, art market insights, artist interviews and profiles, gender dynamics, artistic practices

Alternate: Talk Art

Talk Art podcast

Talk Art examines contemporary art and culture through conversations with artists, curators, collectors, and other art influencers. Episodes cover various art-related aspects, such as art history, art’s social and political implications, and art inspiration. Talk Art will enrich your wisdom of contemporary art and culture, broaden your artistic horizons, and inspire you to explore the world in a profoundly artistic way.

Actor Russell Tovey and gallerist Robert Diament host Talk Art. Russel and Robert offer a dynamic mixture of personal anecdotes, professional insights, and thought-provoking commentary that will keep listeners entertained and informed.

  • Hosts: Russell Tovey and Robert Diament
  • Release of new episodes: Thursdays
  • Average length of episodes: 60 to 80 minutes
  • Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced
  • Topics covered: Artists and their work, exhibitions, art events, art markets, collecting, art history, diversity and inclusion in art

CHOOSING THE BEST PODCASTS

Here are the factors that were taken into consideration in choosing the best of the best. The first is, of course, the quality of the content. Meaning, how much value is the show providing its listeners? Second is how the host(s) is/are, how the guest(s) is/are, and what level their caliber is. Finally, how is the listening experience? Is the audio high-quality with good editing, minimal background noise, and without any side conversations or dead space?

DISCLAIMER

This list was created with unbiased reviews from Kyle Grieve. The opinions are his own and are not influenced by payments from advertisers. The author is an avid podcast listener, and has been a podcaster for almost a year now. Ultimately, the rankings are based on what he believes add up to a great podcast.

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