We’re a very podcast-savvy nation now. More than 70% of the UK population are familiar with podcasts, and fewer people are asking “what’s a podcast?” these days. But it can still be hard to know where to start, and easy to be overwhelmed by how many podcasts there are out there.

But don’t worry – Pod Bible is here to help you narrow it down. In fact, that’s what we’ve been about for half a decade now. Our introduction to some of the best podcasts for beginners has been pulled from our magazine archive. These are some of the biggest podcasts around and we’ve laid out who the hosts are, how many episodes there are and why we think you might like these shows if you’ve never listened to a podcast before. Plus, the hosts share their own elevator pitch.

We’re updating this list all the time, so if you’re still dipping your toe in, why not bookmark this page as a cheat-sheet? It could help you sound like the biggest podcast fan in the UK!

1. The Adam Buxton Podcast (Issue #001)

Host: Adam Buxton
Category: General Interviews
Number of episodes: Nearly 200
Listen if you like: Adam Buxton! and other celebrities

The host says: “Three of my favourites, which I’ve listened back to and felt really happy with were Romesh Ranganathan (EP.61) Tash Demetriou (EP. 32 & EP.82) and Tim Key (EP.77). Yes, I know that’s four.”

We say: Where better to start than with the Pod Bible-award-winning, listener favourite, Adam Buxton. His show is a simple format well-executed. His chats with comedians, writers and musicians often only briefly touch on their work, but The Adam Buxton Podcast has been the gold standard of interview podcasts for a little while now. Although technically our first cover-star, Adam only actually made it onto the cover last year. Listen here >>

2. Off Menu (Issue #015)

Host: James Acast and Ed Gamble
Category: Comedy, Arts
Number of episodes: More than 150
Listen if you: enjoy eating food, and watching comedy panel shows

The host says: “Ed Gamble and I invite a guest into the dream restaurant and ask them their favourite ever starter, main course, side dish, drink and dessert. Also, I am a genie.”

We say: Off Menu once nearly crashed our website because the article was so popular. But when Ed Gamble and James Acaster started the show in 2018, they expected to make no more than 10 episodes. Three years and nearly 200 episodes later they’ve heard about some truly delicious menus and some wonderfully bizarre requests. A highlight was the 100th episode, where we finally got to hear the hosts’ own dream menus. Listen here >> 

3. The Guilty Feminist (Issue #013)

Host: Deborah Francis-White
Category: Society & Culture, Comedy
Number of episodes: Over 300
Listen if you: have ever felt like you should be better at feminism…

The host says: “The Guilty Feminist is a podcast about our noble goals as 21st century feminists and our hypocrisies and insecurities, which undermine those goals.”

We say: The Guilty Feminist has grown into a podcasting juggernaut, producing engaging episodes week in, week out while building a loyal live audience. Whilst some podcasts have made the jump to the stage from recording in bedrooms, TGF was always a stage-show, giving it a different energy (and sound) to some shows. Episodes start with a reassuring “I’m a feminist but…” segment that always gets the crowd cheering. Listen here >> 

4. Films To Be Buried With (Issue #023)

Host: Brett Goldstein
Category: Film
Number of episodes: More than 200
Listen if you like: Ted Lasso, the guy who plays Hercules in Marvel…

The host says: “A guest comes on, I tell them they’ve died, then we discuss their life through the films that meant the most to them. What film scared them the most, made them cry the most etc. At the end they pick the film to go in their coffin and take to heaven. Life, death, movies.”

We say: He might be an Emmy-winning actor, writer and comedian. And sure, he is now literally a demi-god in the Marvel franchise. But he will always be a podcaster to us. Considering how busy he is, we’ve been worried he would put his passion project on hold. But not Brett – he hardly takes a week off of this show! Listen here >>

5. The Receipts (Issue #010)

Host: Audrey & Tolly T
Category: Comedy
Number of episodes: More than 150
Listen if you: want to hear real conversations

The hosts say: “The show is made up of our lived experiences and no topic is off limits.”

We say: A bit like jumping into a group chat, The Receipts grew a cult following due to their open and unfiltered approach, where no subject was off limits. This was the type of show that is all about the hosts – alas one third of The Receipts, Milena, left in autumn 2023 – but their relationship with listeners was a massive part of the show too – and the ‘Your Receipts’ feature still gives their community a part to play.

6. Kermode & Mayo’s Take (Issue #022)

Hosts: Mark Kermode and Simon Mayo
Category: Film and TV
Number of episodes: < 50
Listen if you: read Rolling Stone or Empire magazines

The hosts say: “…we are still just chatting about films, life, getting distracted by avocados and elementary physics etc. But delivering a number of pods a week has obviously modernised what we do, breaking it down into more digestible chunks. So hopefully the heritage listeners feel well served, and the new listeners feel fabulously welcome.”

We say: Kermode & Mayo’s Take is technically a new show, but it is also an evolution from the pairs’ Film Review that ran on BBC Radio 5 live. Kermode gets excited about films, Mayo drily undercuts him and there’s a lot of chatter about stuff that has nothing to do with anything. Listen here >>

7. Sh**ged, Married, Annoyed (Issue #004)

Hosts: Chris and Rosie Ramsey
Category: Comedy
Number of episodes: More than 150
Listen if you: like to eavesdrop on couple’s private lives

The hosts say: “[we get] to be funny together as a couple, on our own terms. We can literally say anything we want, and if we are happy to put it out, then out it goes! We record it in our kitchen in our own time and often have to stop recording because someone in the street is mowing their lawn or the fridge is humming. It’s so low rent, but it’s getting a lot of love, so we’re doing something right.”

We say: Chris and Rosie were fun separately, but getting them together on microphone is a real treat for fans. Since we spoke to the couple in August 2019, they’ve gone on to do a live tour and write a book based on this podcast, so we certainly agree that they are doing something right! Listen here >> 

8. No Such Thing As A Fish (Issue #018)

Hosts: James Harkin, Anna Ptaszynski, Andrew Murray and Dan Schreiber
Category: Comedy, History, Science
Number of episodes: More than 450
Listen if you: want to be the type of person who knows the answers on QI

The hosts say: “The first elevator shaft was built four years before the elevator was invented. If that intrigues you, then you’ll like our show. (You’ll like it even more if the mere mention of the word ‘shaft’ made you giggle).”

We say: This award-winning podcast from the QI offices is quite interesting in and of itself. It’s an example of how podcasts can cross genres, giving us some facts and figures, as well as some silliness too. Listen here >>

9. Soundtracking (Issue #003)

Host: Edith Bowman
Category: Music, Film
Number of episodes: More than 300
Listen if you: think the soundtracks are the best part of the film

The host says: “The episode we recorded with Jon Favreau was our first ever and I am forever in his debt for being so enthusiastic and willing to jump on board with us. And then our very first episode with Ben Wheatley, he’s such a great supporter of the podcast, we appreciate his love so much. He’s been on three times now!”

We say: With an outstanding broadcasting career behind her, Edith Bowman knows a thing or two about creating engaging audio. In Soundtracking, she has conversations with film directors, actors, producers and composers to shine a spotlight on how music is used in film. We’re surprised there aren’t more radio shows dedicated to movie soundtracks, because the stories that come from the creators on this show are fascinating. Listen here >>

10. Stephen Fry’s 7 Deadly Sins (Issue #009)

Host: Stephen Fry
Category: Society & Culture
Number of episodes: 9
Listen if you: want an in-depth exploration of the human heart

The host says: “I think it offers a different way of looking at the problems of the world without recourse to the usual blandishments of echo chamber politics and culture on the one hand or endless reiterations of neoBuddhist mindfulness on the other. With all due respect to both brands of podcast.”

We say: Best known for his acting and presenting (as well as being a bonafide National Treasure) Stephen Fry released his first ‘Podgram’ way back in 2008! 7 Deadly Sins was only a short-run series, but the combination of music, Stephen’s wonderful narration and the deep research on each of the sins make this a great starting point for new podcast listeners. Listen here >>

11. The Kurupt FM Podkast (Issue #012)

Host: Beats, Chabuddy G, Grindah, Steves
Category: Comedy
Number of episodes: 13
Listen if you like: Mockumentaries, strong language and dangerously high level lyrical content.

The hosts say: “First of all I would never pitch anything in an elevator. We’re way above that now. I’d probably get the Best Podcast award that we won out of my bag and just hold it out in front of me and then when the other people in the lift ask “why have you got that award?” I’d explain; We do an award winning podcast called The Kurupt FM Podkast where we talk about different topics and help you to understand them. The best way to describe it is probably it’s like injecting pure knowledge directly into your brain using headphones.”

We say: Audible may be best known for audio books, but it was natural for them to step into podcasts with Audible Originals. This mocumentary follows on from the BBC TV show People Just Do Nothing. After the world’s biggest pirate radio station, Kurupt FM, shut down, the team rose from the ashes as a podcast – this podcast. Only available on Audible >>

12. Table Manners (Issue #011)

Host: Jessie and Lennie Ware
Category: Comedy, Arts (food)
Number of episodes: Over 200
Listen if you: want to hear the real version of ‘the dream dinner party’

The hosts say: “Our podcast elevator pitch is a mother and daughter duo invite a guest round to their house for a ‘friday night dinner’. Friday night dinner was always a big thing in our house. I’d have friends over for dinner and mum would cook, but she couldn’t resist joining in the conversations we’d have and the podcast basically became a continuation of that. We’ve been lucky to have some really amazing and fascinating guests round to mums for dinner – it’s great fun – a great meal and a chat!”

We say: Jessie Ware is perhaps still most famous as a singer, but Lennie Ware is certainly most famous for this podcast. A great example of authentic conversations caught on microphone. Get the table ready, pick your favourite guest and join in. Listen here >> 

13. Hip Hop Saved My Life (Issue #006)

Host: Romesh Ranganathan and RuMaj
Category: Music
Number of episodes: 135
Listen if you like: Hip hop or Romesh Ranganathan or RuMaj.

The hosts say: “we had Afrika Baby Bam from the Jungle Brothers on the podcast [that] was when I first realised that this thing that started off as a hobby had somehow enabled me to be in the same room as legends who had shaped my life, and people who I admire so much.”

We say: Romesh Ranganathan may be one of the busiest men in show business, but that didn’t stop him from starting a podcast about one of his biggest passions in life – hip hop. Romesh of course brings his comedy credentials into this show, but the music and artists are the focus here. Listen here >> 

14. Drunk Women Solving Crime (Issue #008)

Host: Hannah George, Catie Wilkins and Taylor Glenn
Category: True Crime, Comedy
Number of episodes: More than 200
Listen if you: fancy yourself as a Sherlock Holmes – booze and all

The hosts say: “Drunk Women is the most fun I’ve ever had at work. Only a podcast could allow for this kind of format, and we are in charge of our content completely. That’s what’s exhilarating about podcasts vs other mediums.”

We say: Our favourite slightly-sozzled super-sleuths, each episode of Drunk Women Solving Crime tackles true crime in a slightly different way. Rather than gruesome, the crimes chosen are personal, petty and – sometimes – pointless. It makes for a far more relaxed atmosphere, and the drunkenness fits perfectly. Listen here >> 

15. Say Your Mind (Issue #017)

Host: Kelechi Okafour
Category: Society & Culture, Current Affairs
Number of episodes: More than 250
Listen if you: Want a rallying call from Kelechi Okafour

The host says: “Say Your Mind is the current affairs podcast that you might not want to listen to on loudspeaker at work, but you definitely want to listen to regardless. The podcast expertly combines tarot, current affairs and pop culture into one expletive filled fun time and is delivered to you from the perspective of a Nigerian-British Baby Girl. I am the Baby Girl FYI.”

We say: As the media is starting to realise, actress, director and public speaker Kelechi Okafor is one of the most powerful and important voices around at the moment. Kelechi Okafor wears many hats and as her podcast has grown she has built herself the perfect platform to show each one off in all its glory – though its 280th and final episode went out in late January 2024. Say Your Mind will be missed. Listen here >>

16. Happy Place (Issue #007)

Host: Fearne Cotton
Category: Society & Culture
Number of episodes: Nearly 200
Listen if you like: Insights to celebrities’ lives

The host says: “Often we think of people in the public eye, revered characters or academics as above us but when they let loose and allow us to delve beneath the surface we can all experience a deeper level of connection.”

We say: Broadcaster and positivity pioneer Fearne Cotton transitioned brilliantly from the regimented format of TV and radio to the flexibility of podcasting. These aren’t interviews, but rather a conversation that’s relaxed and really gives us a sense of the real people behind some of the most famous names in showbiz. Listen here >>

17. My Dad Wrote A Porno (Issue #014)

Hosts: Jamie Morton, James Cooper and Alice Levine
Category: Comedy
Number of episodes: 168
Listen if you: Like rude, crude and incredibly lewd shows!

The hosts say: “Do you like porn? Do you like laughing? Then you’ll love My Dad Wrote A Porno.”

We say: One of the most recommended podcasts, My Dad Wrote a Porno have been downloaded more than 430m downloads globally since its launch in 2015, as well as selling out two world tours of the live show. Celebrity guests have included Hamilton’s Lin Manuel Miranda and Dame Emma Thompson. MDWAP has now sadly ended, so if you’re overwhelmed with the weekly aspect of some podcasts, this will give you a chance to catch-up. Listen here >>

18. Wrighty’s House (Issue #019)

Hosts: Ian Wright
Category: Sport
Number of episodes: 100 +
Listen if you like: Football punditry with the social commentary

The host says: “Wrighty’s House is a safe place where a group of friends come together and talk about football in a very inclusive and positive way. It’s my yard! It’s the place where the WhatsApp group comes to life.”

We say: This podcast allows listeners access to a national legend without the filter of traditional broadcasting. It’s no exaggeration to say that having Wrighty as a Pod Bile coverstar was a highlight. His infectious enthusiasm and unapologetic honesty make this a must listen, but the way he elevates and learns from each of his co-hosts is also a joy to behold. A Pod Bible favourite. Listen here >>

19. The Blindboy Podcast (Issue #017)

Host: Blindboy
Category: Comedy, Solo
Number of episodes: More than 260
Listen if you: want to hear a real-life Krapp’s Last Tape every single week

The host says: “My podcasts are monologue essays on whatever topic I’m genuinely passionate about at that moment. I’d consider them to be pieces of writing, because I approach a podcast like I would a piece of writing. I try to bring the structure, prose and storytelling of fiction, to subject matter that is factual.”

We say: Who is Blindboy? A storyteller? A poet? A journalist? A historian? A musician? If you listen to the Blindboy podcast, you’ll find out that he’s all of the above and more… Listen here >> 

20. RedHanded (Issue #021)

Hosts: Hannah Maguire & Suruthi Bala
Category: True crime
Number of episodes: Nearly 350
Listen if you: want a good example of a True Crime podcast

The hosts say: “RedHanded is the ultimate true crime podcast for people who want more than crime. We aim to cover all sorts of cases, the obvious ones like Chris Watts and Casey Anthony to ones that other true crime podcasts don’t – like the brutal murder of journalist Jamal Khasgohhi and the evolution of the satanic panic into modern day QAnon. RedHanded is for people who want all the facts, along with thoughtful analysis, but delivered like they are just down the pub with their mates.”

We say: What started as a passion project between friends quickly became one of the most successful true crime podcasts around. The show hits differently than popular US-counterparts – Hannah and Suruthi cover crimes from both sides of the Atalantic, and they can give UK-listeners context that American shows might assume people know. Listen here >>

21. Football Ramble (Issue #005)

Hosts: Marcus Speller, Jules Breach, Luke Aaron Moore, Andy Brassell, Pete Donaldson, Vithushan Ehantharajah, Jim Campbell, Kate Mason, Dotun Adebayo
Category: Sport
Number of episodes: 1729 and counting!
Listen if you: Love football (or know someone who does and want to impress them)

The hosts say: “Taking a show that a number of years ago only used to release one knockabout podcast a fortnight and getting it to a stage where it puts out six vastly different types of show every week was and is a huge undertaking. It’s been a real team effort and we’re very proud of it.”

We say: Football Ramble has changed quite a bit since it started in 2007, but one thing that’s been a mainstay is the level of entertainment. The Ramble gang consistently tackle each aspect of the game with a nuanced and thoughtful approach, whilst not losing the best level of silliness. It’s also worth checking out the offshoot podcast, Upfront. Listen here >> 

22. WTF with Marc Maron (issue #024)

Host: Marc Maron, obviously
Category: Interviews, Arts
Number of episodes: More than 1500. Yep – one thousand five hundred and sixteen, and no sign of slowing down.
Listen if you: What to hear an OG podcaster, and why every interview podcast that follows owes Maron a pint.

The host says: “The secret of being a good podcaster? Being interested and listening and having a good producer.”

We say: Probably the podcast which deserves the title of ‘podcast which made podcasts podcasts’ more than any other podcast. Maron’s laidback style and feel for the flow of a conversation is balanced by his deeply engaged and well prepped questioning convinced a general public who had yet to see the point of this weird radio-but-not-radio thing of its benefits. Namely: you can go deep and long with conversations in a way that live production just won’t allow. Normally you’d say Maron walked so Adam Buxton and the like could run, but Maron was sprinting pretty much out of the gate. Listen here >>

23. RHLSTP with Richard Herring (Issue #002)

Hosts: Richard Herring
Category: Comedy
Number of episodes: If including bonuses and re-runs, over 550
Listen if you: Like stand-up comedy, and especially if you miss live shows

The host says: “[listen to] the episode of Collings and Herrin where I called Andrew’s mum “a fucking idiot” as it was a real moment of surprise and risk, which opened up a whole new door as to what was possible in this medium. Could have ended it all there and then, but luckily we held on for a few more years!”

We say: The Guardian calls him “The Podfather” and Richard has a huge amount of podcast credits, but the RHLSTP is the one to start with. We remember when this was called ‘Richard Herring’s Leicester Square Theatre Podcast’ but at some point in the last 400 episodes the venue changed and the name was shortened. Check out the back-catalogue for episodes with Stephen Fry, Eddie Izzard, Dawn French, David Mitchell, Katherine Ryan and Brian Blessed and many more. Listen here >> 

24. Feel Better, Live More (issue #026)

Host: Dr Rangan Chatterjee
Category: Health
Number of episodes: More than 350
Listen if you like: Simple, straight-talking advice to make every day healthier.

The host says: “My podcast is about empowering every single listener to be the architect of their own health and happiness. Health is so much more than just our food choices and our exercise habits. It is about our relationships, our mindset, the way we approach conflict and the way we manage stress. The key message behind my show is that all of us can feel better than we currently do, and that it is not as hard as you might think.”

We say: The conflicting messages we get all the time about what we should and shouldn’t be doing with our bodies can be deeply confusing, but Rangan Chatterjee’s clear, waffle-free interviews with experts and holistic approach makes it all feel a lot more achievable. Listen here >>

25. Off Air with Jane and Fi (issue #025)

Hosts: Jane Garvey and Fi Glover.
Category: Arts, Comedy
Number of episodes: 135 and counting
Listen if you: Like BBC Radio Four, The Times or unencumbered chat between women…

The host says: “Women of a certain age have their sentences finished by other women of a certain age,” says Jane. Fi adds: “And sometimes it’s funny.”

We say: More than sometimes, Fi. Some broadcasters have the ability to make you feel like you’re listening to a friend you’ve known for a very long time; it’s even more rare to find a duo who both have that, and can make you feel like you’re a part of their gang. Jane and Fi are one of those duos. Whether they’re interviewing novelists or arguing over what makes the perfect hot cross bun, they’re always excellent company. Listen here >>

26. Wolf & Owl (Issue #020)

Hosts: Tom Davis (The Wolf) and Romesh Ranganathan (The Owl)
Category: Comedy
Number of episodes: Over 100
Listen if you: want an entertaining waste of time

The hosts say: “Two buddies chatting nonsense for an hour each week, join us, you might just learn something about the World and maybe, about yourself.”

We say: Romesh is the only podcaster who’s made it onto our cover more than once! Two men having a chat is hardly a new trend in the world of podcasting, but when the men involved share humour, vulnerability and an undying love for each other then you’re probably on to a winner. Listen here >> 

27. Pod Save The UK  (Issue #027)

Hosts: Nish Kumar and Coco Khan
Category: Politics/Comedy
Number of episodes: 25
Listen if you: Need a fun way of knowing what’s going on in the UK

The hosts say: “A progressive politics podcast from an outsider’s perspective, where the listener isn’t talked down to and instead lifted up and encouraged to engage in politics – all through the prism of hope and humour.”

We say: A podcast probably can’t save the UK, but it can certainly save you some time by explaining what’s actually going on in UK politics. With only a small back-catalogue, episodes that are timely, and hosts you likely know from elsewhere, this is a great podcast to start with if you get overwhelmed by the always-on nature of some podcasts. Listen here >>

28. Closet Confessions (Issue #028)

Hosts: Candice Brathwaite and Coco Sarel
Category: Comedy
Number of episodes: Over 70
Listen if you: Want TikTok levels of truth in a longer form

The hosts say: “Closet Confessions is recorded in an actual working closet (so we’re surrounded by a lot of pretty shoes). Myself and Sarel kick off with a confession each, then we take a pop culture moment and expand on it like a spider diagram. And the last segment, we call the Closet Cousins, we go to a listener’s confession, chop it up, and try to help. It’s sisterhood and community based. It’s extremely funny. Someone said ‘spiritual’.”

We say: Candice and Sarel have managed to build a community of listeners that span generations, but who are all in on their inside jokes. The podcast feels like a safe space for everyone who shares their own confessions. If you value sisterhood – or want an insight to it – this podcast is for you!  Listen here >>

29. Dish (Issue #028)

Hosts: Nick Grimshaw and Angela Hartnett
Category: Food and Drink
Number of Episodes: 70
Listen if you: Are a foodie who wants dinner chats about the food

The hosts say: “Dish is a podcast about food and entertaining, I do it with Nick Grimshaw, obviously, who’s just incredible. We interview guests as if they’re coming to our house for dinner and it’s literally set up like that, you know. People come and they have a great dinner!”

We say: A simple yet nourishing recipe for one of the best new podcasts of recent years. We caught up with Nick Grimshaw and Angela Hartnett to discuss their appetising show, dish…

Listen here >>

30. Cuddle Club (Issue #030)

Host: Lou Sanders
Category: Comedy
Number of episodes: More than 140
Listen if you: Short celeb conversations that feel like a hug

The host says: “Woman asks nosy questions to comedians and strangers. No, it’s really a way into relationships. I’m fascinated by what makes people who they are. Was your mum an asshole? Do you have commitment issues? And what gives you a drive? It’s that kind of thing, but funnier.”

We say: A podcast about cuddling? Sign us up! But there’s a lot more to it than that…

Want more podcast recommendations? Check out the back catalogue of Pod Bible magazine, or search our website for more reviews, interviews and podcast recommendations. 

The post 30 of the BEST podcasts for beginners appeared first on POD BIBLE.

THE CATCH

The story of the Freshwater Five is either one of the biggest drug busts in British History or one of the greatest miscarriages of justice. Presented by Raphael Rowe, a journalist who himself spent 12 years locked up for a crime he didin’t commit, this series delves into both sides of the case to piece together the real story.  Listen now >>

“Gripping”
(Anon)

 “What an interesting story, great reporting skills which kept the listener hooked throughout.”
(Ms. Brunsdon)

HERE’S EXACTLY WHAT TO DO

Mel Robbins is back, just in time to help you reimagine the life you want. Discover why Mel is a bestselling global phenomenon with her new Audible Original podcast, which guides you to take action so you can stay motivated and transform your life.   Listen now>>

“Superb guide to just getting on with it.”
(Caroline)

“Wow! Straight talking practical advice. Loved this.”
(Anon)

STEPHEN FRY’S INSIDE YOUR MIND

Stephen Fry travels into the most remarkable place we know – our brain. Exploring just how much we’ve learned about this mysterious structure in recent years, Stephen tries to answer some of the most difficult questions that remain. Listen now >>

“Fascinating, accessible and beautifully read.” (Anon)

“Loved it and enjoyed the immersive sound scape.” (Amazon Customer)

BADDIEL & RIPLEY’S BUY IT, LEAVE IT OR NOT

Listen in as old friends and comedy heroes, David Baddiel and Fay Ripley, sort out your shopping trolley – unboxing and reviewing the products you didn’t even know you wanted. Listen now >>

“Entertaining and funny. Proper laugh out loud”
(Rachel)

“As a shopaholic and comedy lover I was delighted to find this podcast. David and Fay are so natural together and very funny.”
(Anon)

DERREN BROWN’S BOOT CAMP FOR LIFE

By drawing on wisdom and insights from modern psychology to ancient philosophy, Derren Brown demonstrates how you can rise above your brain’s limitations and think yourself into a more fulfilling, less anxiety-ridden life. Listen now >>

“Another brilliant instalment by Derren.”
(A Kelly)

“The intelligence behind all this really leaves you questioning your behaviours and helps you to understand so much about yourself. ”
(Anon)

NATIONAL THEATRE X AUDIBLE NEW VOICES

New Voices, from Audible and the National Theatre, is a series of four short plays originally written for New View, from four young playwrights from across the UK. Listen now >>

“Amazing, wonderful, couldn’t stop listening!”

(C Martin)

—

Every month, Audible members get one credit to use on any audiobook regardless of price or length, plus unlimited access to Audible Original Podcasts at no extra cost. Listen for free with your 30-day trial. From £7.99 / month after 30 days. Renews automatically.

The post The best Audible Original podcasts – from Freshwater Five to The National Theatre appeared first on POD BIBLE.

MICHAEL CAINE: HEROES

Sir Michael Caine knows a lot about heroes. Fearless people who face danger and adversity head on, using their courage and strength to save the lives of others and show true bravery when the odds are stacked against them. Caine explores exceptional true stories of personal strength and gets to know the real people behind the headlines. Powerful, inspirational and life changing, no-one ever said being a hero was easy.  Listen now >>

“These stories reflect real people we should look up to in life!”
(Anon)

 “Although each story is about a difficult or scary subject, all the while, listening you feel inspired and hopeful”
(J. Luca)

 JAMALI MADDIX: SPOOKY SHIT

Have you ever experienced something you just can’t explain – an uncanny encounter with things that go bump in the night? Did it leave you with an unshakable belief in the paranormal? Or feeling like an idiot when your flatmate pointed out it was just your cat treading on the squeaky floorboard? Either way – you’re not alone! Join comedian Jamali Maddix as he asks fellow comics and celebrities to reveal their spookiest real-lfe tales and most uncanny experiences.   Listen now>>

“Very entertaining from start to finish, laugh out loud funny, intriguing conversations”
(R. Jenkins)

“I really loved this podcast, it was entertaining with a mixture of feelings from being spooked out to laughing.”
(Anon)

ABUSE OF POWER: STATE OF FLORIDA VS KRISHNA MAHARAJ

State of Florida vs. Krishna Maharaj is a investigative journey that spans 30 years in the American justice system, beginning when a British-Trinidadian businessman was arrested for a grisly double murder in 180s Miami. Listen now >>

“This is a must for anyone that likes true crime stories. One of the ‘best’ ones out there.” (M. Baz)

“Compelling listening. A terrifying account of how broken the US legal system is and the peril of being wrongly accused of a capital crime in America.” (Anon)

PHILIPPA PERRY’S SIBLINGS IN SESSION

In this new original series, Psychotherapist Philippa Perry explores six very different sibling relationships, and aims to bridge the communication gap within families. In a single intense session she goes under the skin of each of these relationships to find out what is working, what might not be working and how reflecting on this often overlooked relationship might benefit everyone involved. Listen now >>

“A great example of what you can expect in psychotherapy, how first relationships impact our relationship with the world.”
(Anon)

“I never thought I needed help until I’ve listened to PP, she’s simply brilliantly helpful.”
(J. Aggett)

PANIC ROOM

News is everywhere and it’s all bad! So, John Robins has sealed himself in his panci room and he won’t come out until the world’s fixed. Did you know that we’re rapidly running out of grave space? Or that the increasing convenience of modern life is slowly infantilising us? When is someone going to stop social media ripping society apart? And is it possible to eat anything at all without contributing to the destruction of the planet? Listen now >>

“Interesting and witty. I listened because I’m a John Robins fan but the 3 are really good together.”
(Anon)

“Thoroughly enjoyed – funny and surprisingly informative. ”
(Anon)

ANDY ZALTZMAN’S GREATEST OF ALL TIME

Andy Zaltzman attempts to reclaim the much-misused term ‘Greatest of All Time’ by using all of time… and delving through the, what is it now..? 13 billions years of archival material knocking around the universe. Listen now >>

“Fantastic podcast as expected, was delighted when I saw this, it’s a history and comedy combo – brilliant.”
(C. Bowman)

“Discovered this series earlier today, and have just finished it. Andy is brilliant as always, as are his guests. Interesting, thoughtful and very funny.”
(Anon)

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The post The best Audible Original podcasts – from Andy Zaltzman’s GOATs, to panicking with John Robins… appeared first on POD BIBLE.

It’s taken criticism from some quarters over a few editorial choices, but The Trojan Horse Affair restates again how podcasts as a medium can take complex, morally grey stories and tease them out into a story rich with characters and twists which are all the more fascinating for being real.

If it’s got you hankering after more deeply reported investigation podcasts, you’re in luck. Here are some of the best of the last few years.

Death by Conspiracy?

When 46-year-old Gary Matthews died of Covid in January 2021, his family’s grief was made all the more disorientating by conspiracy groups claiming that Gary’s death had, in fact, been part of a cover-up. Marianna Spring, the BBC’s specialist disinformation and social media reporter, goes to Shrewsbury to find out who Gary was from his family and friends, how he drawn into the conspiratorial thinking of the Shropshire Corona Resilience Network, and how much responsibility they feel they bear for Gary’s passing. You’ll likely inhale all 10 episodes in one sitting. LISTEN NOW >> 

S-Town

The breakout hit that set the investigative podcast mode for the next decade, S-Town is a gripping, twisty, intensely characterful listen. The red herrings, the local eccentrics, the tiptoeing pace and sudden revelations are all part of the furniture now. The bigger question is whether you think it’s an exploitative piece of yokel-baiting or a thoughtful meditation on life itself. When horologist John B McLemore got in touch with This American Life asking them to investigate an alleged murder in his hometown of Woodstock, Alabama, it quickly turned out to be nothing. But a much bigger, more moving, and more profound story was there already – McLemore’s own life. LISTEN NOW >>

Bellingcat

A lot of podcasts do punditry and analysis. There aren’t that many doing proper investigative journalism. There are even fewer doing the kind of laborious, fiddly work that goes into disentangling the confusion which piles up around international incidents from original, open source material. Bellingcat has been doing that for some time now, and the two series of its podcast showcase how it does things. The first tried to get to the bottom of how flight MH17 was shot down over eastern Ukraine in 2014, and the second a video apparently showing militiamen killing women and children in an unknown country. It’s extraordinary stuff. LISTEN NOW >> 

The Tip-Off

The big stories which break in the national press are frequently shocking, engrossing and revealing in themselves, but the stories of how they came together are often equally as fascinating. That’s what The Tip-Off focuses on. Maeve McClenaghan speaks to the journalists behind some of the most complex and important stories of recent years – including Liz MacKean and Meirion Jones, who broke the story of Jimmy Savile’s crimes – about the complex business of getting to the truth. LISTEN NOW >>

How It Happened

Axios’ behind-the-scenes strand has included a couple of Trump stories: first, reporter Jonathan Swan traces how the Capitol riot came to happen, going all the way back to Trump’s recovery from Covid and attempts to jump-start his re-election campaign; and second, the attempts to broker a peace deal between Israelis and Palestinians which first failed, and then were rescued. They’ve also started a new Putin themed season this month. LISTEN NOW >> 

Where is George Gibney?

Reporter Mark Horgan sets off on the tail of George Gibney, a former Irish Olympic swimming coach who was charged with 27 counts of sexual assault and rape against young people under his charge, and who fled to America via Scotland in 1994 before he could stand trial. This pod isn’t about having a triumphal moment of catharsis, though; rather, it’s the culmination of dogged detective work and a particularly empathetic understanding of what Gibney’s accusers went through. LISTEN NOW >>

A Very Fatal Murder

Just went it felt like investigative podcasts might be disappearing up their own Dictaphones, satirical newspaper The Onion’s show A Very Fatal Murder arrived to spoof them all beautifully. David Pascall is a journalist on the lookout for the perfect death to make his Great American Podcast about, with help from ETHL, an MIT-engineered robot constantly sweeping news reports for “the most interesting, violent, culturally relevant murder cases in America”. It’s pitch perfect, and extremely funny. LISTEN NOW >>

The Walkers Switch

The closest British equivalent is about an appropriately British outrage: the fact that at some point in the nineties, Walkers switched the colours of its salt and vinegar and cheese and onion crisp packets – a fact that the company denies ever happened. Overnight, it seemed, the world of deep fried potato was turned upside down. Or… was it? What starts out as a deadpan gag turns into an oddly absorbing examination of the Mandela effect, the Illuminati, and Gary Lineker. LISTEN NOW >> 

The post 8 Great investigative podcasts to listen to after The Trojan Horse Affair appeared first on POD BIBLE.

DEFIANCE

Legendary sprinter Michael Johnson embarks upon a personal journey through the history of protest in sport. Drawing in conversations with fellow athlete, commentators and educators, he discovers the remarkable stories of those who’ve taken stands, and assesses the impact of their efforts in driving societal change.  Listen now >>

“An worthwhile listen for anyone interested in sports, social issues and racism.”
(Anon)

 “Excellent review of sports people responsible for challenging the toxic norms int their sports, and bringing about positive change.”
(R. Standeven)

 ZOETROPE

New to Singapore, Tamsin’s attempts to settle in are quickly disrupted when her building’s speaker system crackles into life and an anonymous voice calls out “I saw what you did”. Things had been going well until her welcome drinks, a night that ended with her boss incapacitated in her bathroom. Although Tamsin will swear it was an accident, from the adjacent high-rise things looked altogether more menacing.   Listen now>>

“Good plot, suspenseful, brilliant performance, love daisy’s voice and accent, open end, more coming?.”
(Anon)

“I really enjoyed this. It’s got a really interesting plot and the whole cast is very good.”
(Curtis)

THE GRAHAM NRON BOOK CLUB 2

We’re still all about the stories – reading them, writing them, listening to them, talking about them – and in our new series we’re featuring some of the world’s best storytellers, including Margaret Atwood, Matt Haig, Walter Mosely, Lisa Taddeo and Val McDermid. Listen now >>

“Very enjoyable and informative podcast” (J. Kasiulis)

“Graham Norton and lots of nice people talking about books. What’s not to love?” (Anon)

CAR CRASH

A hilarious take on modern dating through the eyes of Northern ex-pat Grace and laid-back Londoner Elliot as they attempt to navigate life while being haunted through the years by a blind date that goes disastrously wrong. Listen now >>

“Absolutely loved this, loved all the characters, laughed out loud many many times.”
(Anon)

“Funny script with real heart, terrific cast, very timely and well observed. Loved it to bits.”
(S. Andrews)

KILLER BOOK CLUB

The idyllic quiet of a picture postcard English village is shattered when a book club member is murdered by his former student and lover. But why would anyone kill a retired English teacher, a pillar of his community? Perhaps the answer lies in the trail of writing that he, and his killer, left behind: diaries, poems and novels. Listen now >>

“Delighted that I found this series. A very interesting story told in a masterful way.”
(Anon)

“This is one of the best true crime podcast I’ve listened to a in along time. It covers a case that is almost to shocking to be believed. ”
(Anon)

A GROWN UP GUIDE TO PLANET EARTH

A Grown-up Guide To Planet Earth is a tour of our world from the inside, out. Geologist Professor Chris Jackson plunges into the molten world beneath our feet, to reveal what drives the explosive power of volcanoes and destructive energy of earthquakes. Listen now >>

“I definitely recommend this podcast to anyone who wants to know more about how our planet works.”
(Anon)

“The information is great and explained and described extremely well.”
(C. Ann)

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Every month, Audible members get one credit to use on any audiobook regardless of price or length, plus unlimited access to Audible Original Podcasts at no extra cost. Listen for free with your 30-day trial. From £7.99 / month after 30 days. Renews automatically.

The post The best Audible Original podcasts – From book clubs to the centre of the Earth… appeared first on POD BIBLE.

TITTING ABOUT

Comedy legends French & Saunders return for a second series of their smash hit podcast. The legendary pair are taking on yet more important subjects and, well, titting about with them. From kissing Idris Elba, to getting ill-advised matching tattoos on tour, to a blow-by-blow account of getting chewing gum stuck in their pants – it’s the absurdity and chat you need in your life right now.  Listen now >>

“Dawn and Jennifer make you jealous you weren’t there in person, the two best friends you never had.”
(Anon)

 “Totally obsessed with the first one and this is just as good.”
(H. Fitzsimmons)

 FINDING Q

They called themselves ‘Q’ and left a trail of cryptic messages for an increasing number of followers to obsess over. The conspiracy theory became a movement, crashing into mainstream politics and breaking countless families along the way. Journalist Nicky Woolf dives into the world of QAnon in his search to find the shadowy figure behind it all and the legacy they’ve created.  Listen now>>

“Gripping, tense, enlightening. Brilliantly produced.”
(D Sitkin)

“This is a beautifully made podcast, that really highlights the human cost of conspiracy theories”
(R. Marshall)

STEPHEN FRY’S EDWARDIAN SECRETS

Perhaps thanks to TV period dramas, the popular imagination may picture the Edwardian era as an idyllic window between the wars, a time of manners and tea on the lawn. But below the surface lies a frenetic and often bizarre age where scientific leaps forward went hand in hand with belief in fairies, and secrets of sex, lies and murder simmered. Listen now >>

“The topics are interesting and cleverly weaved together with great actors and music!!” (J. Kallen)

“A brilliant balance of entertaining storytelling and fascinating historical facts.” (Anon)

GETTING BETTER: THE FIGHT FOR THE NHS

Against the odds and against the clock, Nye Bevan is charged with creating the world’s first national health service. At home, his marriage is as fiery as the centre-stage politics. Meanwhile, we meet the front-line medical staff and patients whose lives and limbs are at stake. Listen now >>

“Very interesting and well performed. I was gripped to end.”
(C. Hamilton)

“This series really brought to life the struggle of the people who brought the NHS to life”
(Anon)

JASON AND JUDI’S FEEL GOOD PODCAST

Jason Manford and Judi Love are on a mission to find the best life hacks and sage advice to help you feel good. They’re joined by a host of expert guests who spill the beans – from career gurus and parenting coaches to exercise experts and relationship boffins. Every episode, Jason and Judi probe the professionals for new tips and tricks to add to their feel-good toolkit. Listen now >>

“I loved every episode. Jason and Judi just ‘bounce ‘ off each other.”
(Anon)

“So easy to listen to, so entertaining! Some fantastic tips delivered with a great dose of humour!”
(V. Perrin)

MY BODY, MY PODCAST

Elizabeth Banks believes that sex education is a lifelong pursuit that when done well, has the power to transform lives and society itself. Banks seamlessly mixes autobiography and information to create an open space to talk about all things sex and sexuality. My Body, My Podcast is her continuing education class and she would love you to join. Listen now >>

“An absolutely amazing and uplifting podcast that everyone needs to hear”
(N. Wrzesinski)

“Someone had to finally talk about all of these topics! Thank you Elizabeth Banks!”
(A. Vasquez)

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Every month, Audible members get one credit to use on any audiobook regardless of price or length, plus unlimited access to Audible Original Podcasts at no extra cost. Listen for free with your 30-day trial. From £7.99 / month after 30 days. Renews automatically.

The post The best Audible Original podcasts – From QAnon, to a fight for the NHS… appeared first on POD BIBLE.

COUPLEDOM

Idris and Sabrina Elba explore the power of partnerships with dues from all walks of life, whose connections span love, business, creativity, politics and more. The all-star line-up of guests includes Kris Jenner & Kim Kardashian West, Ben & Jerry, Christian Louboutin & Mika, and many more. Listen now >>

“An amazing podcast. Love Idris and Sabrina’s energy”
Claudia M

“The guests have been diverse and interesting; all have fascinating stories to tell”
Tam

 DEATH AT DEEPCUT

Between 1995 and 2002 four young trainee soldiers were found dead at a military training camp, Deepcut. The soldiers all died from gunshot wounds, all on guard duty. In each case the army quickly concluded the deaths were suicide. Investigative journalist Jane MacSorley and retired detective chief inspector Colin Sutton join forces to investigate the deaths and try to find answers about what really happened. Listen now>>

 “Gripping truth about establishment coverups”
Philip

“A really well presented series which deserves attention.”
K Smith

TOM ALLEN’S ROOM OF GIFTS

Tom Allen invites three celebrity gest to bring along their most unwanted gift and share the funny and revealing stories behind them. the winner gets to enter the fabled and mysterious Room of Gifts, to take a change and swap their present for something new… Listen now >>

“I could listen to Tom Allen forever! This is such a fun show”
Anon

“As times, this podcast had we laughing so hard I could hardly breath”
Kat

HASHTAG TRASHBAG

Present and author Dotty invites celeb guests to come and confess the thing they most want to put in the (hashtag) trashbag – however big, however trivial, what will be stuck in the waste disposal this week? Whether it’s mailing lists, cricket or superhero movies, Hashtag trashbag is the chopping block for all the things we love to hate. Listen now >>

“This is a really enjoyable, light-hearted and fun podcast”
B Guru

  “Dotty is amazing – really smart and funny and great chemistry with all the guests”
Anon

TAN FRANCE’S QUEER ICONS

As long as there have been humans, there have been LGBQTI+ people. Join Queer Eye’s Tan France to take a look a the lives, past and present, of those who have proudly defied rigid concepts of normality. Listen now >>

“Eye Opening to LGBT history & culture”
Anon

“The struggle of those whose lived experiences have made a path for others to love their truth”
Zee

MICHAEL CAINE: GANGS 

Sire Michael Caine knows a thing of two about gangs: whether that’s joining one as a kid, or playing gangsters in movies for over 50 years. Now Caine delves into the real stories behind the gangs we think we know so well, revealing the hidden realities behind the myths. Listen now >>

“Excellent”
Rita

“Superb, Riveting Back to Back Listening”
Tony O

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Every month, Audible members get one credit to use on any audiobook regardless of price or length, plus unlimited access to Audible Original Podcasts at no extra cost. Listen for free with your 30-day trial. From £7.99 / month after 30 days. Renews automatically.

The post The best Audible Original podcasts – From couples, to queer icons and gangs… appeared first on POD BIBLE.