Best Podcasts 2023 – Here are this year’s strangest & most compelling podcasts
In the vast landscape of the podcasting world, a trove of great and strange audio experiences awaits eager listeners. From the depths of riveting true crime mysteries to the heights of cosmic explorations, there’s a podcast for every palate and peculiar inclination.
Unleashing a wave of creativity and diverse perspectives, these podcasts invite you to traverse realms of the extraordinary and the unexpected. Whether you’re drawn to the peculiar tales of the supernatural, the compelling narratives of self-discovery, or the insightful discussions on the quirks of human existence, the podcasting universe offers an eclectic array of auditory adventures, ensuring there’s something enthralling for everyone’s ears.
Step into the extraordinary, where the strange becomes the sublime, and embark on a journey through the boundless realms of storytelling, knowledge, and sheer curiosity.
Let’s Be Clear
In Let’s Be Clear, Shannen Doherty offers a heartfelt glimpse into her life, beyond the screen. Known for her role in Beverly Hills, 90210, she now shares her personal struggles and triumphs, including her fight with cancer. It’s a refreshing listen that promises to connect with listeners on a deeper level.
Hot Money
When Patricia Nilsson of the Financial Times embarked on an investigation to uncover the ownership of the largest company in the global pornography industry, she encountered a perplexing challenge. The information was elusive, leaving a critical question unanswered: where was the considerable wealth flowing? Nilsson delved extensively into the intricate and often disconcerting realm where massive sums of money traverse through obscure and frequently unsettling channels. Through her thorough exploration, she unraveled the power dynamics that tend to divert funds away from creators, recounting the narrative of the mid-Noughties’ surge in porn sites that disrupted the underground industry cultivated throughout the 20th century. This narrative unfolds as a collision between two of humanity’s deepest and most primal desires: the allure of desire itself and the murkier, more sinister enticement of financial gain.
Trump’s Trials
Curious about the current status of Donald Trump and the various criminal and civil charges he faces? NPR’s Scott Detrow offers concise updates through bite-sized episodes of “Trump’s Trials,” a podcast dedicated to guiding listeners through the developments in Trump’s four legal cases. Each episode, lasting approximately 15 minutes, delves into the latest news provided by legal experts. It provides insights into Trump’s conduct during legal proceedings, as well as that of his children and associates linked to the Trump brand. The podcast also explores the implications of each case, not only for Trump but also for those affected by his actions and, given his potential candidacy, for the democratic process. Whether you’ve been following Trump’s legal challenges or are seeking to catch up, this podcast is your go-to source for staying informed.
Trump’s Trials is available on Apple Podcasts.
Dead Man Walking Podcast
Presented by Fred Rutman, the author of the bestselling memoir “The Summer I Died Twenty Times,” this Canadian podcast goes beyond conventional boundaries. In addition to conversing with guests who have experienced death and revival, Fred engages with individuals from the obscure corners of the universe. From survivors of sex trafficking to former terrorists, ex-KKK members, dating coaches, and other captivating personalities, the podcast delves into a diverse range of perspectives and experiences. The show, still in its infancy, is a fascinating Canadian podcast.
Cancelled With Tanya Mongeau
Nowadays, any personality can be ‘cancelled’ by the slightest mistake in their public or private life. The well-known Youtuber and influencer Tana Mongeau has been canceled several times, and none of these general sentences has overshadowed her success. In Canceled, Tana Mongeau interviews influencers and celebrities. They talk about more human topics that show the vulnerability of those exposed to the audience’s opinion. And best of all: no filters.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcseTnvS6CC-mkIcwKfi-1A
The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A Fuck
Mark Manson, an acclaimed self-help author, delivers a distinctive blend of insight and humor as he tackles life’s intricate questions with refreshing candor. In “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck Podcast,” Manson combines guest interviews, reader inquiries, and solo episodes to explore the uncomfortable truths of life. Grounded in a pragmatic approach devoid of quick fixes, his insights draw from both Eastern and Western philosophies. Covering topics from relationships and careers to health, wealth, and personal happiness, this podcast is a forthright exploration of life’s complexities. Manson’s humor, infused with a touch of irreverence, creates an engaging listening experience. It’s a journey of self-actualization, challenging listeners to assess their values and priorities and focus on what truly matters. “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck Podcast” is Mark Manson’s self-improvement podcast.
https://markmanson.net/podcast
What Now? with Trevor Noah
Dive into honest chats on What Now? with Trevor Noah, where the multifaceted Trevor Noah engages in meaningful dialogue with a diverse lineup of guests. From household names to unsung experts, the podcast promises a departure from the superficial, offering in-depth exchanges. Noah’s commitment to authentic speech shines as he navigates conversations across the spectrum. Whether a lengthy debate or a brief encounter, each episode is tailored to its content, ensuring a natural flow and fostering growth. This is Trevor Noah unfiltered, where every voice has the potential to resonate, and every topic is on the table.
Say More With Dr? Sheila
Say More with Dr? Sheila is a funny and insightful podcast where Amy Poehler plays a quirky couples therapist. She talks to guests like Tina Fey about love and life troubles. It’s not serious therapy, but it’s seriously entertaining. You’ll hear about all kinds of relationship drama, from annoying in-laws to tricky love lives. The show makes you feel better by showing you that everyone has problems, making it a lighthearted way to think about serious issues.
Last Podcast On The Left
Only at the Last Podcast on the Left will you laugh at humanity’s dark side. Comedian Ben Kissel, researcher Marcus Parks, and conspiracy theorist Henry Zebrowski explore challenging and thrilling topics. Taking very different approaches, they talk about ghosts, serial killers, politicians, war crimes, etc. But, instead of getting intimidated and afraid of the discussions, Ben, Marcus, and Henry create a friendly, safe, and fun space where you’ll laugh at the horrors of the world.
Infamous
How do influential individuals face consequences for their wrongdoing? Journalists play a significant role in exposing the truth, unraveling the complexities of various institutions. Enter “Infamous,” a podcast where hosts Vanessa Grigoriadis and Gabriel Sherman, along with their guests, delve into the investigations that led to the downfall and attempted rebranding of the Victoria’s Secret empire, the NXIVM sex cult, the Satanic Panic, and even the Gwyneth Paltrow turtleneck sweater ski trial. Discover the relentless efforts required to crack open these cases and the aftermath for those who dared to do so. If you’ve ever been curious about the individuals and forces shaping the other side of a scandal, Infamous is a must-listen.
Infamous is available on Apple Podcasts.
Long Shadow: The Rise of the American Far Right
White nationalism doesn’t emerge in isolation. Season 1 of Long Shadow explored lingering questions about the 9/11 attacks. In Season 2, host Garrett Graff delves into a series of contemporary events, such as Waco, Ruby Ridge, and the January 6 riots, that have fueled the rise of the far right. Tune in to the episode on the Oklahoma City bombing, where the details of Timothy McVeigh’s radicalization are crucial for comprehending the far-right mindset. This podcast is indispensable for anyone keen on understanding the current state of U.S. history, tracing its roots, and contemplating the necessary steps for progress.
Long Shadow: The Rise of the American Far Right is available on Apple Podcasts.
Truth Be Told
In Season 5 of Truth Be Told, a podcast dedicated to Black liberation, host Tonya Mosley raises probing questions about drugs, specifically psychedelics. With the FDA moving closer to approving MDMA for conditions like PTSD, depression, and other mental health issues, Mosley reflects on the implications of these drugs within the context of racial trauma. Can a lifetime marked by violence, microaggressions, and criminalization find any relief through psychedelic-assisted therapy? In this engaging six-part series, Tonya embarks on a journey to Jamaica, examining how the War on Drugs and its enduring impact on Black lives may hinder the freedom potentially offered by psychedelics. And yes, she explores the realm of mushrooms.
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/truth-be-told/id1462216572
Day X
A sobering look at the neo-Nazi specter in modern-day Germany, it’s possible infiltration of police and government, and a plan involving a military officer and a faked refugee identity
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/day-x/id1564995058
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.
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/project-unabom/id1627613321
Sounds Like a Cult
Fanatical fringe groups have never been so prevalent, and there’s something more than a little cultish about celebrity stans, multi level marketing, and marathon runners—just three of the subjects this lighthearted podcast unpacks
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sounds-like-a-cult/id1566917047
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.
Dr. Death
A gripping podcast that focuses on incompetent or psychopathic (maybe both) ex-surgeon Christopher Duntsch and exposes terrifying institutional failures.
https://wondery.com/shows/dr-death/
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.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-is-short-with-justin-long/id1459899327
SmartLess
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.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/smartless/id1521578868
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How Did This Get Made?
At some juncture, we’ve all pondered this question about a movie. However, hosts Paul Scheer, June Diane Raphael, and Jason Mantzoukas bring in guest creatives to partake in lively and uproarious discussions about some of the most dreadful films ever made. They dive into movies so awfully entertaining, from Face/Off to Junior to The Room, thoroughly dissecting and playfully ridiculing them.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/smartless/id1521578868
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.
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-directors-cut-a-dga-podcast/id1067471691
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.
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/shrink-the-box/id1663005316
Wiser Than Me with Julia Louis-Dreyfus
A celebrity-hosted podcast series has become something of a cliché lately. At best, they offer some extra insight into the interior lives of household names. At worst, they’re a thinly-veiled publicity grab. But it’s rare for them to stick with us beyond their initial novelty. This is not the case, however, for Wiser Than Me—as anyone familiar with the work of “Emmy award winning-est actress” Julia Louis-Dreyfus might guess. From Seinfeld to Veep, when Louis-Dreyfus takes on a project, she does it right.
InWiser Than Me, Louis-Dreyfus sets out to solve the quandary of why we rarely hear from older women in media – and shows us what we’re missing. With an incredible guest lineup including the likes of Jane Fonda, Fran Leibowitz, Darlene Love, Carol Burnett, and more, Louis-Dreyfus has a gold mine of experiential wisdom to dig from in this heartfelt and impactful series.
Final Thoughts
As we conclude this exploration of the vast and diverse podcasting landscape, it’s evident that the world of audio storytelling has never been more vibrant and intriguing. From the raw authenticity of “Let’s Be Clear,” where Shannen Doherty shares her personal battles, to the investigative depths of “Hot Money,” unravelling the mysteries of the global pornography industry, and the timely updates on legal proceedings in “Trump’s Trials,” there’s something for every curious ear. The podcasting journey takes us to the unconventional realms of life and death with “Dead Man Walking Podcast,” the unfiltered conversations of “Canceled With Tanya Mongeau,” and the pragmatic wisdom of “The Subtle Art of Not Giving A F*ck Podcast” by Mark Manson. Trevor Noah’s “What Now” brings authentic dialogues, while the dark humor of “Last Podcast On The Left” explores humanity’s eerie facets. “Infamous” sheds light on the investigative prowess of journalists, “Long Shadow” traces the roots of far-right movements, and “Truth Be Told” delves into racial trauma and psychedelics. Tristan Harris and Aza Raskin enlighten us on the perils of the digital age in “Your Undivided Attention.”
Whether it’s the thought-provoking interviews in “Life Is Short With Justin Long” or the laughter-inducing discussions in “SmartLess,” the podcasting world offers a plethora of options to satisfy every taste and curiosity.
So, tune in, explore, and let these podcasts guide you through a fascinating auditory journey.
by Myles Shane
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