Looking for a unique podcast to spice up your routine? Apple’s Podcasts Top Charts for 2024 have just been published, presenting an engaging panorama of the past year’s popular podcasts. Ranging from well-loved regulars to emerging newcomers, the lineup offers fantastic variety for all types of listeners. Whether you’re diving into podcasts for the first time or wanting to broaden your current playlist, this compilation caters to diverse preferences and timeframes. It may be worth sampling episodes across various categories – you may find diamonds in the rough! Furthermore, the Top Charts also feature rankings for new programs, top series, and highly shared shows, among others. Let’s delve into what makes each of these high-ranking podcasts worth a listen.
The Daily, presented by The New York Times, has transformed the way daily news is delivered. Averaging a comfortable 20-25 minutes, your morning host Michael Barbaro alongside colleague Sabrina Tavernise delve into a significant news story each weekday. The Daily’s unique allure lies in its immersive interviewing technique and refined sound design. Instead of spewing out headlines, they intertwine narrative storytelling with expert insights and real-time reporting. With its ability to make knotty news stories palatable, it has become a customary morning routine for millions, leaving them feeling authentically informed on the day’s issues.
Embracing the art of true crime storytelling, Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat have made a name for themselves with Crime Junkie. What sets Crime Junkie apart in the dense landscape of true crime isn’t just its meticulous research but also the careful respect it pays to victims. They’ve cultivated a shared language with their listeners – phrases such as “pruppet” for dogs and “full body chills” have made their way into the vernacular of fans. Not falling into the trap of sensationalism, the duo focuses on clean, fact-based narratives. Their catchphrase, “be weird, be rude, stay alive”, has struck a chord with fans who both enjoy the captivating tales and value the practical safety advice.
Few podcasts can boast having shaped the landscape of podcasting like The Joe Rogan Experience. Not confined to any one genre, Rogan one day might engage in a heart-to-heart with a comedian about their craft, while the next day he could be dissecting quantum physics with a scientist. The show’s long format encourages guests to delve deep into their thoughts and often leads to unforeseen deviations. Although occasionally contentious, Rogan’s show owes its popularity to his genuineness and ability to demystify complicated subjects for the everyday listener.
The podcast incarnation of the iconic NBC’s true-crime program, Dateline, has gained a whole new audience. What sets Dateline apart is its decades-long journalistic experience and access to firsthand sources. The high production value is noticeable, featuring exclusive interviews, court recordings, and taped police interviews. The distinctive storytelling of the hosts, notably the inimitable voice of Keith Morrison, has been lauded by genuine crime aficionados.
Deviating from the usual celebrity interview model, Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, and Sean Hayes have brought in an innovative technique in Smartless where two hosts are startled by a mystery guest invited by the third host. This results in genuinely unscripted conversations and true reactions. What makes Smartless truly remarkable is how it blends interviews with actual fun and vulnerability. The hosts don’t shy away from taking jabs at one another or sharing awkward anecdotes, leading one to feel like they’re part of a close-knit conversational group.
The Huberman Lab podcast, helmed by Dr. Andrew Huberman, sets itself apart by successfully explaining intricate neuroscience into actionable tips. Each episode hones in on a particular aspect of brain functionality, physical performance, or mental wellness. The show’s appeal comes from its equilibrium between the depth of science and its practical implications.
In the realm of narrative journalism, This American Life has remained an influential player for years. Its signature blend of interviews, ambient sound, and thoughtful narration has guided many other podcasts. The enduring appeal stems from its capacity to continually surprise listeners with stories that evoke laughter, tears, and provoke new perspectives.
New Heights, a weekly sports podcast by NFL players and brothers Travis and Jason Kelce, boasts an authentic and entertaining dynamic. Their sibling rapport lends a distinct authenticity and humor to their analysis of current football updates and matches.
Offering fundamental news in a concise 10-minute package, morning news podcast Up First by NPR excels in its mission. What makes Up First indispensable is its gift to simplify complex stories into objective reporting without compromising depth. Its popularity is a result of its optimal blend of succinctness and comprehensiveness, making it the perfect companion to kickstart your day.
Morbid, hosted by Alaina Urquhart, an autopsy technician, and Ash Kelley, a hairstylist, presents an unusual combination of true crime, paranormal tales, and grim history. Thanks to their meticulous research blended with riveting banter, the show has attracted a loyal audience. By making grim subjects more digestible while treating them with due seriousness, the program stands out.
The coveted Podcast of the Year for 2024 was awarded to Hysterical. This captivating seven-part investigative series debuted in July 2024 and unraveled a perplexing ailment affecting high school students in upstate New York. The connective narrative between these disparate events offered an intriguing viewpoint on how shared experiences and unexplained phenomena can significantly impact a community.