Dive into the world of mystery, intrigue, and in-depth storytelling with our curated list of the best investigative podcasts. These gripping audio experiences take listeners on enthralling journeys, revealing hidden truths and uncovering buried secrets. From true crime sagas to corporate scandals, the best investigative podcasts will captivate and inform, showcasing the power of investigative journalism.
1. Sympathy Pains
Sympathy Pains Podcast is a thought-provoking and heartfelt series that explores the concept of empathy through shared experiences. Each week, host Jamie Thompson invites guests from diverse backgrounds to discuss their personal stories, delving into the complexities of human emotions and connections.
The podcast offers a unique blend of raw storytelling and expert insights, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking to better understand empathy, vulnerability, and the power of shared experiences in forging meaningful relationships.
2. Nice White Parents
Nice White Parents is a compelling podcast that examines the role of white families in shaping American public education. Host Chana Joffe-Walt takes listeners on an investigative journey through the history of a Brooklyn school, uncovering the impact of well-intentioned but often problematic white parents on educational policies and integration efforts.
Through candid interviews and deep analysis, the podcast reveals the complexities of racial dynamics in education, challenging listeners to confront their own biases and engage in critical conversations about equity and inclusion.
3. The Bias Diagnosis
The Bias Diagnosis is a thought-provoking podcast that delves into the critical issue of racial bias in healthcare. Guided by the insightful Dr. Yaba Blay, a distinguished scholar-activist, this series uncovers the ways in which race influences patient care and outcomes, presenting a blend of personal accounts and expert commentary.
By unearthing compelling stories and offering sharp analysis, The Bias Diagnosis pushes listeners to examine entrenched biases and supports the pursuit of a fairer, more empathetic healthcare system.
4. The Big Hit Show
The Big Hit Show delves into a diverse range of topics, including pop culture, current events, and personal stories, providing listeners with a unique blend of humor and intellectual discourse. With their engaging banter and thorough research, Mike and Sarah create an immersive audio experience that enlightens and entertains, appealing to a wide audience.
5. I’m Not A Monster
I’m Not A Monster is a gripping podcast that delves into the perplexing world of radicalization and terrorism. Hosted by award-winning investigative journalist Josh Baker, the series follows the story of Sam Sally, an American mother who finds herself entangled in the lives of ISIS militants.
Through captivating interviews and meticulous reporting, this show belongs on our list of the best investigative podcasts because it unravels the complexities of human behavior, offering an unprecedented look into the minds of extremists and the struggles faced by their families.
6. Al Jazeera Investigates
Al Jazeera Investigates is a series of investigative documentaries and podcasts produced by Al Jazeera, a renowned international news organization based in Qatar. The series delves into a wide range of important issues, including political corruption, human rights abuses, environmental scandals, and financial crimes.
With a commitment to uncovering the truth and holding those in power accountable, Al Jazeera Investigates employs rigorous journalistic standards and in-depth reporting to shed light on stories that are often underreported or overlooked by mainstream media.
7. In the Dark
In the Dark is a critically acclaimed investigative podcast produced by American Public Media (APM) Reports. Hosted by Madeleine Baran, the series delves into the intricacies of unsolved crimes and injustices, providing an in-depth examination of the cases at hand. The podcast goes beyond the details of the crime itself, scrutinizing the broader context and systemic failures within law enforcement and the judicial system.
Each season of In the Dark focuses on a specific case, such as the abduction of Jacob Wetterling in season one and the controversial conviction of Curtis Flowers in season two. By exploring these cases, the podcast raises questions about the efficacy of the criminal justice system and the broader implications for society.
8. The Dropout
The Dropout is a riveting podcast that tells the captivating story of Elizabeth Holmes, the enigmatic founder of the now-defunct biotech company, Theranos. Hosted by ABC News reporter Rebecca Jarvis, the series dives deep into Holmes’ meteoric rise and dramatic fall, uncovering the deceit and misrepresentations that led to one of Silicon Valley’s most infamous scandals. Through engaging interviews and thorough investigations, The Dropout offers a fascinating exploration of ambition, greed, and the dark side of innovation.
9. Pieces Of Britney
Pieces of Britney is a BBC Radio 4 podcast that dives into the life and career of pop icon Britney Spears. Hosted by journalist and broadcaster Pandora Sykes, the series explores the highs and lows of Britney’s journey, from her meteoric rise to fame to the highly publicized struggles and controversies surrounding her personal life, including her conservatorship battle.
The podcast delves into various aspects of Britney’s story, such as mental health, media scrutiny, and the #FreeBritney movement, offering a nuanced and empathetic perspective on the star’s life. Through interviews with people connected to Britney and expert commentary, Pieces of Britney provides listeners with a deeper understanding of the pop icon’s journey and the cultural context in which her story unfolded.
10. IJ4EU Podcast
The IJ4EU Podcast, short for Investigative Journalism for the European Union, is a series that focuses on in-depth investigative journalism within the European context. The podcast highlights collaborative cross-border journalism projects funded by the IJ4EU grant, showcasing the importance of free press and accountability in a democratic society.
Each episode features interviews with journalists and experts involved in these projects, providing listeners with a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges, strategies, and impact of investigative reporting. The IJ4EU Podcast belongs on our list of the best investigative podcasts because it demonstrates the vital role that journalism plays in upholding transparency and safeguarding democracy in Europe.
11. WeCrashed: The Rise and Fall of WeWork
WeCrashed: The Rise and Fall of WeWork is a unique podcast that chronicles the meteoric rise and dramatic collapse of WeWork, a co-working startup once valued at $47 billion. Hosted by David Brown, the series delves into the company’s visionary yet controversial founder, Adam Neumann, and the events that led to WeWork’s implosion. Through engaging storytelling and insightful interviews, the podcast offers a fascinating exploration of ambition, leadership, and the dark side of the startup world.
12. Unearthed: Journeys into the Future of Food
This podcast is a groundbreaking documentary series exploring innovative solutions addressing global food challenges. Featuring cutting-edge advancements in agriculture, biotechnology, and culinary arts, the series unveils sustainable practices aimed at feeding a growing population while reducing environmental impact.
From lab-grown meat to vertical farming, Unearthed uncovers revolutionary approaches that hold the potential to transform our food systems, promoting a healthier, more sustainable, and equitable world for generations to come.
13. Harsh Reality: The Story of Miriam Rivera
Harsh Reality: The Story of Miriam Rivera is a gripping podcast that explores the life and tragic death of Miriam Rivera, the world’s first openly transgender reality TV star. The series delves into her rise to fame on the show “There’s Something About Miriam” and the subsequent backlash she faced. Through interviews and investigative reporting, the podcast examines societal attitudes towards transgender individuals and the media’s role in shaping public opinion, providing a compelling and thought-provoking narrative.
14. The FRONTLINE Dispatch
The FRONTLINE Dispatch is an investigative podcast produced by the acclaimed PBS documentary series FRONTLINE. Expanding on the program’s dedication to in-depth journalism, the podcast dives into pressing social, political, and cultural issues through immersive storytelling and expert interviews. With a commitment to uncovering the truth and exposing injustices, The FRONTLINE Dispatch provides a deeper understanding of the complex world we live in.
15. Beyond Today: Deadliest Day
Beyond Today: Deadliest Day is a powerful podcast that investigates the deadliest day in the Afghanistan conflict for British forces, when five soldiers were killed in a single day. The series uncovers the events leading up to the tragedy and its aftermath, exploring the personal stories of the soldiers involved and their families. Through in-depth reporting and poignant interviews, this podcast sheds light on the human impact of war.
16. The Tip Off
The Tip Off takes listeners behind the scenes of some of the most compelling investigative journalism stories. Hosted by Maeve McClenaghan, a British investigative journalist, each episode delves into the process of uncovering stories that have made headlines, examining the hard work and persistence of the journalists involved. Through interviews with the reporters themselves, The Tip Off reveals the challenges, breakthroughs, and techniques used to expose the truth and hold the powerful accountable.
17. Long Story Short
Long Story Short explores a wide range of topics, from pop culture and entertainment to politics and society. Each episode features interviews with experts, public figures, and everyday people, providing listeners with diverse perspectives and insights. The engaging format invites its audience to learn, reflect, and engage with the world around them. The podcast tackles complex issues with nuance and empathy, encouraging meaningful conversations and a deeper understanding of the people and ideas that shape our world.
Your List of the Best Investigative Podcasts
We hope you enjoyed our list of the best investigative podcasts. What are your favorites? Let us know in the comments. In the meantime, here are some more lists of our favorite podcasts:
