71 Best Podcasts (2026): True Crime, Culture, Science, Fi...

What’s Happening

Okay so Get your fix of tech, true crime, pop culture, or comedy with these audio adventures.

Simon Hill Gear Mar 21, 2026 8:00 AM The Best Podcasts for Everyone Get your fix of tech, true crime, pop culture, or comedy with these audio adventures. PHOTO-ILLUSTRATION: WIRED STAFF; Comment Loader Save Story Save this story Comment Loader Save Story Save this story Podcasts are to radio as streaming services are to television, and were lucky to be living through a golden age of both . (plot twist fr)

But you need help finding the best podcasts worthy of your ear because, while you can find a podcast about almost anything these days, with solid choice comes solid mediocrity.

The Details

Our expertly curated list will entertain and educate you, whether you’re doing the dishes, working out, commuting, or lazing in the bath. For more advice, check out our guides on how to listen to more podcasts and the best podcasts for kids .

If you’re feeling entrepreneurial, read our recommendations on the gear you need to start a podcast . Updated March 2026: I added several podcasts, including Flesh and Code, The Outlaw Ocean, What We Spend, Midnight Burger, and Fonejacker.

Why This Matters

Table of Contents AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron Best Tech Podcasts Best Society Podcasts Best Culture Podcasts Best True-Crime Podcasts Best Science Podcasts Best Economics Podcasts Best Business Podcasts Best Celebrity Interview Podcasts Best Sports Podcasts Best Music Podcasts Best Movie Podcasts Best TV Podcasts Best Fiction Podcasts Best History Podcasts Best Food Podcasts Best Health and Wellness Podcasts Best Comedy Podcasts Power up with unlimited access to WIRED . Get best-in-class reporting and exclusive r content thats too important to ignore. Podcast Subscriptions Theres a world of free podcasts, but you can also snag various podcast subscriptions that provide different benefits, including ad-free listening, early episodes, and bonus content.

Tech companies have been making moves like this as competition heats up.

The Bottom Line

Podcast Subscriptions Theres a world of free podcasts, but you can also snag various podcast subscriptions that provide different benefits, including ad-free listening, early episodes, and bonus content. Subscriptions can also get you access to virtual events and discounted merch, and let you support your favorite podcasters.

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