10+ Best True Crime Podcasts On Spotify
By Sam Nguyen
Best True Crime podcasts on Spotify are super addictive through their captivating episodes and seasons. Whether investigating unsolved cases or reporting crimes, the podcasts will give you an emotional rollercoaster.
Key Takeaways
- “Serial” is a podcast that explores one true crime case per season in a detailed and investigative manner.
- “My Favorite Murder” is a true crime comedy podcast discussing various true crime cases, both well-known and lesser-known
- Each episode of “Casefile True Crime” delves into a specific case, exploring the details of the crime, the investigation, and the subsequent legal proceedings.
- “The Dating Game Killer” refers to Rodney Alcala, a convicted serial killer and rapist who appeared as a contestant on “The Dating Game”.
- “Crimetown” is a documentary podcast that delves into the history of crime and corruption in various American cities.
- “Someone Knows Something” focuses on unsolved or mysterious cases.
- “Unsolved Murders: True Crime Stories” delves into unsolved murder cases from various periods and locations.
- “Dirty John” is a true crime podcast and a subsequent TV series that tells the chilling story of John Meehan.
- “Suspect” is an investigative podcast series about cases of mislaid justice and the significant decisions made by detectives, lawyers, and jurors in pursuing justice.
- “Dr. Death” is a true crime podcast about Dr. Christopher Duntsch, a neurosurgeon whose actions caused harm and death to numerous people.
- “Missing and Murdered” focuses on cases involving missing and murdered Indigenous women in Canada.
- “Morbid” explores various macabre and dark subject matter cases.
10+ Best True Crime Podcasts On Spotify
Whether you’re new to crime podcasts or can’t stop listening, here are our recommendations for the 10+ best True Crime podcasts on Spotify.
Serial
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In 2014, Serial Productions, a New York Times company, introduced a groundbreaking podcast hosted by Sarah Koenig. The podcast’s highlight revolved around Koenig’s intriguing phone conversations with Adnan Syed. This production hits the records and remains an iconic top-tier true crime podcast even today.
Key Features of Podcasts
“Serial” skillfully unfolds a true story marked by unexpected twists and turns. In its first season, the podcast delves into the heartbreaking murder of Hae Min Lee. Host Sarah Koenig questions the validity of Adnan Syed’s life sentence for the 1999 murder of his high school girlfriend.
Through thorough research involving articles, interviews, court testimonies, and police records, Koenig uncovers a series of inconsistencies in the case. These previously undisclosed revelations lead listeners on an immersive investigative journey with her.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Compelling Storytelling: “Serial” is known for its engaging narrative style that keeps listeners invested in the story, making it an immersive experience.
- In-Depth Exploration: The podcast deepens into actual crime cases, providing listeners with detailed information, evidence, and perspectives that might not be available through mainstream media.
- Critical Thinking: The podcast encourages critical thinking by presenting multiple viewpoints, evidence, and uncertainties, prompting listeners to analyze and form their conclusions.
Cons
- Slow Pacing: Some listeners might find the slow release of information and the detailed exploration of specific aspects tedious or repetitive.
- Ethical Concerns: Delving into sensitive cases can raise ethical questions about privacy, and consent, and potentially cause distress to the families and individuals involved.
- Subjective Bias: Like any form of journalism or storytelling, “Serial” might carry a certain level of subjective bias or perspective that influences how the story is presented.
My Favorite Murder
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“My Favorite Murder“ is a true crime comedy podcast hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark. In each episode, they present intriguing true crime stories and hometown retellings from their friends and listeners.
In 2016, “My Favorite Murder” gained popularity after “Serial.” The fans of the series “Murderinos” have made it one of the most popular true crime series.
Key Features of Podcasts
Since its launch in January 2016, MFM has shown Karen and Georgia’s lifelong passion for true crime. They’ve explored stories from infamous serial killers like the Night Stalker to unsolved cold cases, captivating cults, remarkable survivor accounts, and significant historical events such as the 1921 Tulsa race massacre.
“My Favorite Murder” is a part of the Exactly Right podcast network, which offers a platform for diverse and creative voices to present engaging, relatable stories across various genres. The network hosts a range of podcasts covering topics like historical true crime, humorous interviews, news, science, pop culture, and more.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Unique Approach: Combining true crime with comedy, “My Favorite Murder” offers a specific and engaging way to explore dark subject matter.
- Personal Connection: The hosts, Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, create a relatable and personal atmosphere, making listeners feel like they’re chatting with friends.
- Variety of Cases: The podcast covers various cases, from famous serial killers to lesser-known mysteries, keeping the content fresh and diverse.
Cons
- Tone and Sensitivity: The comedy element might be off-putting to listeners who find it insensitive or inappropriate, given the gravity of the discussed crimes.
- Lack of Depth: Some listeners seeking in-depth analysis of cases might find that the comedic format doesn’t provide the level of detail they desire.
- Personal Anecdotes: While some appreciate the hosts’ personal anecdotes, others might find them distracting or unnecessary.
Casefile True Crime
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“Casefile True Crime“ offers a gripping exploration of real-life criminal cases. Its thorough research and presentation of facts create a sense of immersion in delving into the investigations.
The podcast’s focus on solved and unsolved cases caters to a broad audience. Those who love solving puzzles appreciate the analysis of evidence and theories. Moreover, including court recordings, interviews, and witness testimonies further enriches the storytelling experience, giving listeners a more comprehensive view of the cases.
Key Features of Podcasts
“Casefile True Crime” is characterized by its meticulous storytelling approach, thorough research, and factual presentation of actual crime cases. Episodes explore intricate details, deeply comprehending events, investigations, and legal processes. Including direct quotes from court records, interviews, and official documents immerses listeners in the case’s narrative.
The podcast’s unique feature is its anonymous host, emphasizing the cases over the presenter’s identity. This enhances the storytelling, focusing on content rather than personality.
Overall, the podcast’s commitment to detail, factual representation, and innovative narration make “Casefile” a standout in the true-crime podcast landscape.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Thorough Research: The podcast is known for its meticulous research, providing in-depth and accurate information about the cases it covers.
- Comprehensive Coverage: “Casefile” focuses on intricate details of criminal cases, offering listeners a deep understanding.
- Respectful Tone: The podcast maintains a respectful and empathetic tone when discussing victims, survivors, and their families, avoiding sensationalism.
Cons
- Potentially Triggering Content: Given the graphic nature of true crime cases, the podcast might be triggering or distressing for some listeners.
- Slow Release Schedule: New episodes are released less frequently than other podcasts, which might leave listeners wanting more.
- No Live Shows: Unlike other true crime podcasts, “Casefile” doesn’t offer live shows or touring events for fan interaction.
The Dating Game Killer
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“The Dating Game Killer” is a true crime tale that draws people in for several reasons. It mixes romance and murder, appealing to our curiosity about the darker sides of relationships. The contrast between a harmless dating show and a sinister criminal adds surprise and interest.
Stories like this let us delve into human behavior and psychology, making us curious about why people do such terrible things and what leads them to extreme actions.
Key Features of Podcasts
How can someone murder without being caught? The podcast “The Dating Game Killer” tells the frightening true story of a man who committed many murders in different states and managed to avoid getting caught.
This man used “John Burger,” aka the Dating Game Killer or Rodney Alcala. He brutally killed numerous people, including women, girls, and boys. What’s shocking is that he escaped capture multiple times all across the country. Suspicions started in the 1970s when he was linked to many attacks and murders. However, he was only arrested in 2010 and died from natural causes in 2021.
With six parts, you’ll learn how Alcala tricked women by pretending to be a professional photographer and asking them to model for him. Frighteningly, there are many pictures of other potential victims who might have suffered the same fate.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Insights into Criminal Psychology: Studying Rodney Alcala’s case offers a window into the mindset of serial killers, aiding professionals in law enforcement, psychology, and research to comprehend serial killers’ motives and behaviors.
- Raising Awareness: Learning from such cases raises awareness about the hazards of online dating and interacting with strangers. This knowledge promotes cautious interactions on various platforms.
- Honoring Victims: Conversations about the case commemorate victims and affirm that justice prevailed, offering solace to their families and loved ones.
Cons
- Ethical Concerns: Some people argue that consuming and discussing the details of such cases might disrespect the victims and their families.
- Copycat Behavior: There is a concern that extensive coverage of serial killers might inspire individuals with criminal tendencies to mimic their actions, seeking attention and notoriety.
- Privacy Considerations: Discussing the case could violate the privacy of the victims and their families, potentially causing them additional pain and suffering.
Crimetown
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The allure of “Crimetown” lies in its ability to shed light on the complex interactions between criminals, law enforcement, and ordinary citizens. Doing so, the podcast offers a deeper understanding of the factors that shape crime-ridden environments and their impact on individuals and communities.
Furthermore, its immersive storytelling style, with firsthand accounts and vivid descriptions, brings listeners directly into the heart of each city’s criminal underworld. This personal connection to the stories makes the experiences of criminals and those affected by their actions more relatable.
Key Features of Podcasts
Crimetown is a show made by Marc Smerling and Zac Stuart-Pontier with the help of Gimlet Media. Each season, we look into crime in a different city.
In Season 2, Crimetown goes to Detroit, Michigan. Detroit used to be a big car city but changed a lot. It faced problems that are important to the U.S.: issues about race, being poor, how the police work, losing jobs, fighting against drugs, and wanting someone to save the day.
Detroit is a strong city, and its people are strong too. They went through riots, a big problem with drugs, a political mess, and lots of other tough times, but they’re still here—and they want to share their stories. You can hear new episodes on Mondays, only on Spotify.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Humanizing Stories: By focusing on the personal experiences of individuals affected by crime, the podcast humanizes both victims and culprits, making the stories relatable and engaging.
- Social Commentary: The podcast offers insights into more significant societal issues such as race, poverty, and systemic crime-related problems.
- Realistic Approach: “Crimetown” doesn’t stray away from crime’s complexity and moral ambiguity, giving listeners a more authentic perspective.
Cons
- Ethical Dilemmas: Discussions of actual crimes and the people involved raise ethical questions about privacy, consent, and whether such stories should be shared for entertainment.
- Lack of Resolution: In certain cases, the podcast might not provide clear conclusions or solutions to complex issues, leaving listeners with lingering questions.
- Narrative Focus: The podcast’s narrative style might simplify or omit certain aspects of the crimes and their context, potentially sacrificing accuracy for dramatic storytelling.
Someone Knows Something
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Someone Knows Something’s appeal lies in its ability to humanize cold cases and bring attention to the real lives affected by these mysteries. By delving into the personal experiences of victims, their families, and those seeking answers, ‘Someone Knows Something’ creates a profound connection that keeps listeners engaged and emotionally invested.
The podcast’s dedication to research and evidence collection proves its deep dives into each case. This offers listeners a detailed understanding of the investigations and showcases the complexities and challenges of solving long-standing mysteries.
Key Features of Podcasts
Hosted by CBC’s David Ridgen and investigator Amanda Robb, the show delves into the mysterious murder of Amanda’s uncle in 1998. Her uncle, a New York doctor, was tragically murdered for his involvement in performing abortions. This revelation brought to light numerous abortion-related controversies.
Across its six seasons, the series delivers gripping narratives. Each season focuses on a different case, allowing deep exploration and a comprehensive understanding of each mystery’s details. The ongoing season centers on the case of Doland Izzet Jr., chronicling a 25-year-long search by a mother named Debra for her missing son.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Engaging Storytelling: The podcast’s investigative storytelling style keeps listeners engaged and eager to follow the unfolding mysteries.
- Human Connection: By focusing on personal stories, the podcast creates an emotional connection with the audience, making the cases more relatable.
- Advocacy for Justice: The podcast contributes to discussions around justice, accountability, and the impact of unsolved crimes on communities.
Cons
- Potentially Sensationalizing: There’s a risk of the podcast unintentionally sensationalizing or dramatizing real-life tragedies for entertainment purposes.
- Lengthy Investigations: The dedication to following cases over extended periods might not appeal to listeners seeking quick resolutions or conclusions.
- Limited Expertise: Depending on the case, the hosts might not always have access to the specialized expertise to fully understand certain aspects of the investigation.
Unsolved Murders: True Crime Stories
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Naturally, people are intrigued by unsolved cases and enjoy trying to find solutions based on clues. “Unsolved Murders” satisfies this curiosity by sharing cases that have puzzled both investigators and the public for a long time. It lets listeners act like detectives and develop their ideas.
The podcast’s way of telling stories is also a good attraction, combining historical facts, interviews, witnesses’ accounts, and expert opinions to recreate what happened in each case. This makes the cases feel real, as if listeners are with the investigators, feeling the suspense and excitement firsthand.
Key Features of Podcasts
“Unsolved Murders: True Crime Stories” dives into global unsolved murder cases. To crack these mysteries, the podcast features renowned actor Carter Roy, known for roles in popular TV shows.
Each week, listeners are immersed in a new puzzling case, often spanning multiple episodes for in-depth exploration.
By meticulously analyzing evidence, conducting insightful interviews, and sharing the latest case updates, the hosts involve you in the investigative process. Since its start in 2016, the podcast has provided deep insights into criminals’ minds and their victims’ stories.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Renowned Host: Featuring actor Carter Roy, known for roles in popular TV shows, adds star power and credibility to the podcast.
- Longevity and Insight: Running since 2016, the podcast provides deep insights into the psychology of criminals and the lives of victims.
- Variety of Cases: The podcast covers numerous unsolved murder cases, offering a diverse selection of mysteries to explore.
Cons
- Long-Form Format: While the multi-episode approach allows for in-depth analysis, it might require a significant time commitment from listeners.
- Dependence on Personalities: While featuring a renowned actor is a draw, some might feel that the podcast relies too heavily on the celebrity host rather than the content itself.
- Limited Interactivity: The lack of direct interaction means that audiences can only engage through listening and not active participation.
Dirty John
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The podcast’s popularity is due to its skilled storytelling. Using careful research, interviews, and compelling narration, “Dirty John” vividly portrays people and their complex relationships. Listeners are attracted by the intense drama, feeling empathy, fear, and excitement as the story progresses.
The podcast also satisfies our curiosity about the darker facets of human behavior. It explores the intricacies of manipulation, illustrating how vulnerabilities can result in dangerous scenarios. This insight into the human psyche piques our interest and drives a desire to understand the motivations behind such unsettling actions.
Key Features of Podcasts
In 2017, “Dirty John” was released as a true crime podcast, and in 2018, it was turned into a television series with the same title. Produced by the LA Times, the podcast tells the gripping story of a man who quickly married Debra, the daughter of a family, moved into her home, and isolated her from her relatives. The podcast focuses on the life of the titular John, exposing his history of lies and manipulation, ultimately leading to an attempted murder and a tragic death.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Real-Life Drama: “Dirty John” is inspired by real events, giving us a peek into shocking aspects of human behavior.
- Character Insights: The podcast delves into the people’s personalities and reasons, offering a look into their minds.
- Cautionary Message: This warning about online relationships and manipulation is relevant in our digital era.
- Episodic Format: The podcast’s format keeps us hooked, building suspense with each episode.”
Cons
- Emotional Impact: The intense and often dark themes might negatively affect listeners’ mood or emotional well-being.
- Triggering: Certain themes, such as manipulation and abuse, might trigger distress in listeners who have experienced similar situations.
- Privacy Concerns: The podcast involves real people and events, which could raise ethical concerns about privacy and consent.
Suspect
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Unlike typical crime stories that mainly investigate the details, “Suspect“ goes deeper into the suspects’ psychology and situations. This helps us wonder about the reasons behind criminal actions and how people go on such paths.
The podcast’s engaging storytelling lets us see things from both sides – police and suspects, making us feel empathy for everyone involved. By showing the whole picture in each case, “Suspect” helps us better understand the complexities of the legal system and the difficulty of finding the truth.
Key Features of Podcasts
“Suspect” is a series that digs into cases where justice might have gone wrong. It explores the tough choices made by detectives, lawyers, and jurors – choices that can’t easily be changed once made.
In Season 3, titled “Five Shots in the Dark,” the focus is on Leon Benson. He spent 24 years in an Indiana prison for a murder in 1998. His conviction relied on the words of two people who saw what happened – but what if their memories weren’t accurate?
Host Matt Shaer and lawyer Lara Bazelon investigate how the justice system failed Leon and the murder victim, Kasey. They also search for the actual killer. This season offers an extraordinary glimpse into the fight to prove a wrongful conviction and whether justice will finally be done.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Unique Approach: “Suspect” takes a different angle by focusing on cases where justice might have been mistaken, offering a fresh perspective.
- Thought-Provoking Themes: The podcast explores complex themes such as the fallibility of the justice system, the impact of eyewitness testimony, and the consequences of irreversible decisions.
- Professional Expertise: Hosts with investigative and legal backgrounds like Matt Shaergive credibility and expertise to the podcast’s exploration of the justice system.
Cons
- Frustration: The podcast might frustrate listeners, as cases of potential injustice can be unsettling and the quest for resolution always leads to nothing.
- Dependence on Subject Matter: The appeal of “Suspect” largely depends on an individual’s interest in the legal system, true crime, and the complexities of justice.
Dr. Death
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The podcast’s popularity is due to its focus on a serious issue – medical mistakes. It tells the stories of patients hurt by Dr. Duntsch’s mistakes, showing problems in healthcare and starting important talks about safety.
The podcast’s storytelling is a big reason people like it. It uses research, medical expert interviews, and detailed narration to vividly tell the story. Listeners are hooked as they learn about the disturbing truth and the harm caused by someone who should have kept patients safe.
Key Features of Podcasts
Christopher Duntsch was a self-assured neurosurgeon who boasted about being the best in Dallas. He offered spinal surgery to solve back pain when other treatments had failed. However, his patients began facing complications, and the system didn’t safeguard them. This raises a crucial question: Who or what should the system safeguard?
From Wondery, the creators of the popular podcast Dirty John comes “DR. DEATH,” a tale about a charismatic surgeon, 33 patients, and a system that failed to act.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Compelling Subject: The podcast addresses a gripping and concerning subject – medical malpractice and the vulnerabilities of patients.
- Educational: It provides insights into the complexities of medical malpractice, making listeners more informed about their own healthcare experiences.
- Credibility: Produced by Wondery, known for producing other successful podcasts, “Dr. Death” maintains quality and professionalism.
Cons
- Potential Biases: Depending on the podcast’s approach, there might be a risk of oversimplifying or sensationalizing complex medical issues.
- Emphasis on Negativity: The podcast highlights failures in the healthcare system, potentially overshadowing patients’ many positive experiences.
- Limited Solutions: While it raises awareness about issues, the podcast might not offer concrete solutions to address the problem of medical malpractice.
Missing and Murdered
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The podcast’s storytelling is a key strength. It carefully researches, interviews people, and narrates with empathy. “Missing and Murdered” combines the personal stories of victims and families with the more prominent picture of injustices in Indigenous communities.
Additionally, the podcast shows how media can make a difference. By making people aware and getting them involved for accountability, “Missing and Murdered” helps seek justice and support for Indigenous women.
Key Features of Podcasts
The podcast’s main power is its dedication to telling the stories of missing and murdered Indigenous women. It highlights these often overlooked stories and starts conversations about unfair systems and the need for societal change.
The podcast doesn’t just focus on the individual cases; it places them within the broader context of historical and contemporary injustices in Indigenous communities. This approach encourages listeners to understand the complexity of the challenges and the need for comprehensive solutions.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Representation: The podcast highlights underrepresented cases of missing and murdered Indigenous women, emphasizing essential but often overlooked stories.
- Social Awareness: It raises awareness about systemic injustices and prompts discussions about discrimination, inequality, and the need for societal change.
- Empathetic Storytelling: The podcast’s storytelling approach allows listeners to connect emotionally with the victims and their families.
Cons
- Potential Overwhelm: The podcast’s intense focus on systemic issues might leave listeners feeling overwhelmed or helpless about the challenges.
- Reliance on Subject Interest: The appeal of “Missing and Murdered” relies on the listener’s interest in true crime with a strong focus on social justice and advocacy.
- Limited Focus: While it focuses on missing and murdered Indigenous women, the podcast may not cover many other true crime topics.
Morbid
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Listeners love Morbid for its authenticity. The hosts, Ash and Alaina, bring a unique blend of humor, empathy, and curiosity to their discussions, creating a space where listeners feel like they’re in conversations with friends.
Key Features of Podcasts
Despite their conversational style, the hosts conduct in-depth research to ensure accuracy and quality. The podcast provides entertainment and educational value, appealing to a wide range of listeners.
“Morbid” covers various cases, from well-known to lesser-explored incidents. This variety keeps the content fresh and appeals to different interests within the true crime types.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Authentic Conversations: The hosts’ genuine and relatable discussions create a comfortable atmosphere for listeners.
- Humor and Empathy Balance: “Morbid” successfully combines humor with empathy, maintaining a respectful tone while engaging the audience.
- Thorough Research: The podcast’s commitment to accurate information enhances its credibility and educational value.
Cons
- Humor Sensitivity: The balance of humor and serious subject matter might not appeal to all listeners, particularly those seeking a more formal tone.
- Lack of Structured Format: The informal approach might result in less structured content.
- Dependence on Hosts’ Personalities: Listener enjoyment might depend on whether they connect with the hosts’ personalities and style.
True Crime Podcasts On Spotify: FAQs
Bottom Line
True crime podcasts on Spotify have become more and more highly streamed thanks to the growing concerns in criminal and law implementation.
