The Ultimate Guide to the Best Horror Podcasts You Need to Listen To
(originally written on cafecrashdown.com)
Ready for a spine-chilling auditory adventure? Whether you’re a die-hard horror enthusiast, a podcast aficionado, or a true crime fan, we’ve curated the ultimate guide to the best horror podcasts you need to listen to. From dark historical events to supernatural fiction, these podcasts offer a diverse range of terrifying tales that will keep you hooked and haunted.
1. Lore
Host: Aaron Mahnke
Why Listen:
- Compelling Storytelling: “Lore” masterfully blends historical events with folklore, creating narratives that are as informative as they are creepy.
- Atmospheric Production: The eerie soundscapes and Mahnke’s soothing yet haunting voice make for an immersive experience.
- Highlight: Each episode explores the real-life origins of myths and legends, making you question what’s real and what’s not.
2. My Favorite Murder
Hosts: Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark
Why Listen:
- Unique Blend of Humor and Horror: This true crime podcast injects humor into horrifying tales, offering a refreshing take on the genre.
- Captivating Audience Engagement: The hosts’ chemistry and engaging storytelling have built a loyal community of “Murderinos” who tune in religiously.
- Highlight: Their mix of comedy and true crime is perfect for those who like their horror with a side of laughter.
3. The Last Podcast on the Left
Hosts: Ben Kissel, Marcus Parks, and Henry Zebrowski
Why Listen:
- Deep Dives and Comedic Commentary: This podcast covers everything from serial killers to supernatural phenomena, blending detailed research with humor.
- Variety of Topics: No matter your horror fix, “The Last Podcast on the Left” has something for you.
- Highlight: Their episodes on notorious cults and infamous murders are particularly riveting and often hilarious.
4. Welcome to Night Vale
Format: Fictional Radio Show
Why Listen:
- Surreal and Eerie: Set in the strange desert town of Night Vale, this podcast combines dark humor with bizarre occurrences.
- Unique Narrative Style: Each episode feels like a broadcast from an alternate reality, complete with community updates and eerie stories.
- Highlight: The show’s creativity and originality make it a must-listen for fans of surreal horror.
5. NoSleep Podcast
Format: Anthology of Horror Stories
Why Listen:
- Wide Range of Chilling Tales: Each episode features original horror stories, ensuring there’s always something new to fear.
- High-Quality Narration: A variety of narrators bring each story to life, adding depth and emotion to the chilling tales.
- Highlight: Perfect for those who love to be kept on the edge of their seat by well-crafted horror fiction.
6. Scare You to Sleep
Host: Shelby Scott
Why Listen:
- Classic and Contemporary Horror: This podcast mixes timeless horror tales with modern stories designed to unsettle.
- Calming Yet Creepy: Scott’s soothing voice lulls you into a false sense of security before delivering spine-tingling scares.
- Highlight: Excellent for listeners who want to face their fears head-on while relaxing.
7. Spooked
Creator: The team behind “Snap Judgment”
Why Listen:
- Real Supernatural Encounters: “Spooked” features true stories of personal paranormal experiences, making it deeply relatable and extra creepy.
- Gripping Narratives: Each story is told with emotional depth, making you feel the fear and wonder of the storyteller.
- Highlight: Ideal for those who enjoy hearing firsthand accounts of supernatural events.
8. Creepy
Host: Jon Grilz
Why Listen:
- Horror Stories and True Crime: This podcast offers a mix of listener-submitted stories and classic horror literature.
- Chilling Atmosphere: The production values and Grilz’s narration create an unsettling atmosphere that lingers.
- Highlight: A great choice for fans of both horror fiction and true crime.
9. The Black Tapes Podcast
Format: Serialized Docudrama
Host: Jon Grilz
Why Listen:
- Horror Stories and True Crime: This podcast offers a mix of listener-submitted stories and classic horror literature.
- Chilling Atmosphere: The production values and Grilz’s narration create an unsettling atmosphere that lingers.
- Highlight: A great choice for fans of both horror fiction and true crime.
- Unsolved Paranormal Mysteries: Follow a journalist’s investigation into mysterious “black tapes” that defy conventional understanding.
- Engaging Storyline: The serialized format keeps you hooked from episode to episode.
- Highlight: Perfect for those who love a good mystery with a paranormal twist.
How to Discover New Horror Podcasts
Exploring new podcasts can be as thrilling as the content itself. Here are some tips to help you find your next favorite show:
- Use Podcast Apps: Apps like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Stitcher often have curated lists and recommendations.
- Join Communities: Engage with fellow horror enthusiasts on social media platforms and forums like Reddit.
- Follow Podcast Hosts: Many podcast hosts share their recommendations on their social media profiles.
No matter your preferred flavor of fear, there’s a horror podcast out there that’s perfect for you.
From the historical horrors of “Lore” to the surreal tales of “Welcome to Night Vale,” our curated list offers something for every horror enthusiast. Ready to discover your next obsession?
Join our community of horror lovers (link) and share your favorite podcasts. Who knows? You might find a few more spine-chilling shows to add to your playlist.
Happy listening, and remember—sometimes it’s not just a story.
