Top 10 Podcasts You Should Be Listening to in 2025
Podcasts have grown from niche passion projects to mainstream media powerhouses. Whether you're an early bird during your morning jog or a night owl relaxing before bed, podcasts offer a unique blend of education, entertainment, and inspiration right through your headphones. With millions of options, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.
That’s where we come in! We’ve curated a list of the Top 10 Podcasts in 2025 based on listener reviews, impact, and content value. These aren’t just trending—they’re transforming the way people consume information and stories. You’ll find something for every taste: comedy, crime, motivation, science, wellness, and more.
So grab your earbuds and let’s dive into the world of audio excellence. Whether you're a seasoned podcast lover or just starting out, these shows are worth hitting the “subscribe” button for.
1. The Daily – The New York Times
In a world full of information overload, The Daily cuts through the noise. Hosted by Michael Barbaro, it delivers concise yet in-depth breakdowns of major global stories, all in under 30 minutes. With a strong editorial backbone, this podcast has become the go-to source for staying updated while on the go.
What sets The Daily apart is its storytelling format. It’s not just about news—it's about the people, perspectives, and emotions behind the headlines. Interviews with reporters and eyewitnesses give each episode a deeply personal feel, helping listeners truly connect with current events.
Whether you’re interested in politics, climate change, or global affairs, The Daily offers a smart, balanced, and human approach to journalism. For news lovers, this one is non-negotiable on your playlist in 2025.
2. SmartLess
SmartLess is a laugh-a-minute podcast hosted by comedic legends Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, and Sean Hayes. Each episode is built around a surprise guest, bringing spontaneity, humor, and heartfelt moments in equal measure. You never quite know what to expect—and that’s the charm.
What makes SmartLess special is the chemistry between the hosts. Their inside jokes and casual banter make listeners feel like they're part of a private chat between old friends. Yet the conversations often evolve into surprisingly deep territory, exploring everything from mental health to career struggles.
Guests range from A-list celebrities to unsung heroes, giving the show broad appeal. If you're looking for a mix of comedy, culture, and human connection, SmartLess is a must-listen.
3. Huberman Lab
Dr. Andrew Huberman, a neuroscientist from Stanford, has taken the podcasting world by storm with the Huberman Lab. Each episode dives into the science of optimizing your body and mind, with practical advice on everything from sleep to focus to anxiety management.
What’s refreshing is how Huberman makes complex biology accessible. He doesn’t just throw data at you—he explains how and why it works, backed by real studies. You'll come away with actionable tips to improve your lifestyle without feeling overwhelmed.
Whether you’re into fitness, mental health, or just curious about how your brain ticks, this podcast is an excellent resource. It’s become a staple for health-conscious individuals and high performers alike.
4. Crime Junkie
If you love true crime, then Crime Junkie is your dream come true. Hosted by Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat, this podcast offers weekly doses of gripping stories, from unsolved mysteries to chilling criminal cases.
Each episode is told with suspenseful pacing and a deep respect for the victims involved. The storytelling is clean, immersive, and emotionally powerful—perfect for long drives, quiet nights, or binge-listening. The hosts manage to strike a balance between informative and empathetic without sensationalism.
With a massive fanbase and consistently top rankings, Crime Junkie remains one of the most beloved podcasts in its genre. Just be warned—you may never look at a cold case the same way again!
5. The Diary of a CEO
Hosted by Steven Bartlett, The Diary of a CEO gives an unfiltered look at the lives of entrepreneurs, creators, and thought leaders. What makes this podcast shine is its authenticity—guests aren’t just talking about success, they’re discussing failures, doubts, and the mental health struggles behind the scenes.
The production quality is top-notch, and Steven's interview style is both empathetic and probing. You’ll hear insights that go beyond typical business clichés, offering lessons that can be applied to personal growth, productivity, and purpose.
Whether you’re building a startup or just seeking direction in life, this podcast serves as a blueprint for resilience and ambition. It’s more than just business—it’s about being human in a fast-paced world.
6. Stuff You Should Know
Ever wonder how black holes form, what makes people tick, or how money laundering works? Stuff You Should Know answers all your random but fascinating questions in a digestible, often humorous way.
Hosts Josh and Chuck bring a conversational, down-to-earth tone to each topic, making it feel like a chat with friends. Despite the casual vibe, the podcast is incredibly well-researched and structured, making learning fun and easy.
Perfect for trivia lovers and lifelong learners, this podcast turns the obscure into the unforgettable. It’s the kind of show that makes you go, “Wait, I didn’t know that—but I’m glad I do now!”
7. This American Life
A long-standing favorite, This American Life is the gold standard in audio storytelling. Hosted by Ira Glass, each episode centers around a theme and presents real-life stories that explore it in unexpected, moving, and often profound ways.
The variety is astounding—some episodes make you laugh, others might make you cry, and some will leave you pondering for days. The show captures the beauty and complexity of the human experience like no other podcast.
If you love thoughtful storytelling, cultural reflection, or simply want to understand people better, This American Life is a timeless gem that remains relevant in 2025 and beyond.
8. The Tim Ferriss Show
Best-selling author Tim Ferriss interviews world-class performers across business, sports, tech, and art to uncover their secrets to success. Each episode is a deep-dive masterclass in productivity, performance, and personal development.
The conversations often go beyond the professional, touching on mental models, routines, books, and even failures. Tim’s curiosity and attention to detail result in rich, actionable content you can immediately use in your own life.
If you’re serious about growth and hacking your habits for success, The Tim Ferriss Show is a goldmine. It's no surprise it's one of the most downloaded podcasts in the world.
9. On Purpose with Jay Shetty
Former monk turned purpose coach, Jay Shetty brings spiritual depth and emotional clarity to the podcast world. On Purpose features both solo insights and interviews with celebrities, doctors, and spiritual leaders on topics like love, mindfulness, and healing.
Jay’s voice is calming, and his messages are often uplifting and transformational. Episodes encourage listeners to reflect deeply, build better relationships, and live more intentionally.
In an era where stress and burnout are rampant, On Purpose is a soothing and wise companion. It’s the perfect balance between personal growth and inner peace.
10. Radiolab
Radiolab combines investigative journalism with artistic storytelling and immersive sound design. Covering science, philosophy, and human behavior, it’s the kind of podcast that makes you think and feel simultaneously.
Every episode is a mini audio documentary that unfolds like a mystery. The hosts use sound as a storytelling tool, layering audio to create emotional impact and enhance understanding.
Radiolab is for those who love the thrill of discovery and the power of sound. It turns complex questions into compelling stories, proving that science can be both beautiful and bizarre.
In a world full of distractions, podcasts offer a refreshing way to reconnect with ideas, emotions, and stories that matter. Whether you're learning something new, laughing out loud, or gaining insight from a world-class thinker, there's a podcast out there for you.
This carefully curated list of the Top 10 Podcasts in 2025 reflects the diversity, depth, and dynamic nature of today’s audio content. Each show brings something unique to the table and has the power to change the way you think, feel, or even live.
So go ahead—choose your next favorite from this list, hit play, and let your ears guide you into a world of wonder.