10 True Crime Podcasts That Will Give You Goosebumps

True crime podcasts have an irresistible appeal, taking us into dark tales of murder, betrayal and shocking duplicity – all while we sit comfortably in our chairs, safely escaping the chaos. They offer a deep insight into the minds of criminals and reveal the twisted motivations behind their deadly actions.

From cold-blooded killers to con artists weaving webs of deception, true crime podcasts have piqued our darkest curiosities and given us a glimpse into a world we ourselves would never want to enter. It's no wonder the genre has become an obsession for millions, with one in three podcast listeners fascinated by the macabre tales of crime, punishment and everything in between.

Fast forward to 2024: True crime podcasts are better than ever. They have become masterpieces of storytelling, with exciting plots and shocking revelations that captivate the listener from the first word. These are not just crime novels, but complicated mysteries that explore the dark depths of human nature and take you into a world where the line between good and evil is often blurred.

With the rise of high-quality audio production and investigative journalism, today's true crime podcasts go beyond surface-level storytelling and delve deep into the forgotten, unresolved, and downright horrifying.

Whether you're already a true crime junkie or are just falling into the abyss, you've come to the right place. Here's a curated list of the best true crime podcasts that will captivate you – and maybe make you want to double-check the locks before bed. Be prepared to get addicted because once you start listening, you won't be able to stop.

The best true crime podcasts of 2024 that will keep you up all night

Rotten mango

Rotten Mango offers a unique blend of true crime and spooky content, delving deep into the darkest corners of criminal minds. This podcast doesn't shy away from gritty details, making it perfect for those who want a comprehensive crime analysis. With a focus on lesser-known cases from around the world, it offers new perspectives on criminal psychology. Despite the intense subject matter, Rotten Mango maintains a delicate balance by incorporating humorous moments to give listeners a well-rounded and engaging experience.

In the dark

In the Dark, the acclaimed investigative journalism podcast, is back with a new season. The series is known for its in-depth look at complex cases and first gained widespread recognition in 2016 with its investigation into the 1989 kidnapping of Jacob Wetterling. The second season explored the controversial case of Curtis Flowers, who was tried six times in Mississippi for the same crime. Now in its third season, In the Dark has teamed up with The New Yorker and author Heidi Blake to produce a compelling four-part series. This latest installment explores the risky stories of Dubai royal women who dared to flee from Sheikh Mohammed, offering listeners a compelling tale of risk and rebellion within the royal family.

True Crime Files

Casefile True Crime is an essential podcast for anyone who appreciates thoughtful true crime storytelling. With its compelling narrative and focus on solved and unsolved cases, this podcast offers listeners a comprehensive look at criminal investigations. The presenter's calm style of presentation contrasts with the often scary content, creating a unique listening experience. Casefile True Crime stands out for its in-depth research and presentation of lesser-known cases, making it a top choice for true crime lovers who want to delve deeper into the complexities and mysteries of real-life criminal events.

Serial

Produced by The New York Times, Serial is considered a cornerstone of the true crime podcast genre. Under the expert guidance of Sarah Koenig, each season meticulously examines a single case, offering listeners an in-depth exploration of complex crime investigations. The first season of the podcast, which examined Hae Min Lee's murder, not only captivated audiences but also revolutionized investigative journalism in audio format. With its innovative storytelling approach and comprehensive investigation of unsolved cases, Serial has redefined the standards for true crime podcasting. It is a must-read for anyone who craves intellectually stimulating and deeply compelling crime stories.

Small town murder

Offering a unique blend of comedy and true crime, Small Town Murder focuses on murders that occur in small, often overlooked communities. Hosted by two comedians, the podcast delves into the intricacies of these cities, exploring their peculiarities and the shocking crimes that take place within them. Despite the dark subject matter, the presenters inject humor into their narrative, contributing to a distinctive listening experience. With meticulous research and a comedic twist, Small Town Murder presents a fresh take on true crime and releases new episodes weekly on Thursdays.

The apology line

The Apology Line podcast uncovers a captivating social experiment set in 1980s New York. A mysterious phone number is popping up all over the city, inviting anonymous callers to reveal their deepest secrets via voicemail. For a decade and a half, this unconventional project, initiated by Allan Bridge (known as Mr. Apology), collects a wealth of raw, unfiltered human experiences. Years later, Bridge's widow Marissa brings these long-buried confessions to light. The podcast delves into the profound impact of being entrusted with others' darkest secrets, examining the weight of this responsibility and its lasting impact on those who bear it.

Sistas Who Kill: A True Crime Podcast

Sistas Who Kill: A True Crime Podcast offers a unique perspective on true crime, focusing on African American female perpetrators. Hosted by longtime friends MaRah and Taz, the show examines how the criminal justice system treats these women differently than their white counterparts. The popularity of the podcast has increased significantly, allowing the hosts to run it as a full-time job. This series will particularly appeal to true crime fans who are also interested in social justice issues, as it combines both elements in its narrative approach.

Up and gone

Up and Vanished, hosted by Payne Lindsey, is a must-watch for anyone fascinated by unsolved mysteries and unsolved cases. This podcast delves deep into forgotten crime investigations and aims to uncover new clues and solve long-standing mysteries. Lindsey's compassionate approach creates a welcoming atmosphere for listeners and encourages them to become part of the investigative journey. The series appeals primarily to true crime fans who are driven by the desire to solve overlooked cases and give a voice to those who can no longer speak for themselves.

Down the Hill: The Delphi Murders

Down the Hill: The Delphi Murders examines the horrifying case of two teenage girls, Liberty German and Abigail Williams, who were tragically murdered near a hiking trail in Delphi, Indiana on February 14, 2017. The title of the podcast comes from a haunting three-word audio clip released by police, believed to be the voice of the unidentified male suspect. This series meticulously examines the baffling case that continues to plague Indiana, providing listeners with a captivating experience as it uncovers the complexities surrounding these unsolved murders.

Dark Asia with Megan

Hosted by Megan Lee, Dark Asia with Megan is a podcast that explores crimes committed in Asia and against Asian individuals. It is known for its uncompromising approach to grisly detail, as evidenced by episodes featuring shocking stories such as a man's self-crucifixion, a disturbing case involving a high school student's severed hands, and the discovery of a corpse in a wine barrel. What sets this podcast apart is Lee's clever and captivating storytelling style, which gives these dark stories a unique and compelling dimension.

(Source of main and main images: Unsplash/ @jonathanvez)

This article first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Kuala Lumpur