15 Most Popular Podcasts Taking Over 2025: Have You Heard Them All?

In podcasts, there's something for everyone. Whether you're into true crime, comedy, news, or learning random things, they are the ultimate entertainment and are like your best friend who never runs out of things to say. Today, we’ll explore the 15 most popular podcasts in 2025 that have won hearts and topped charts. Grab your earbuds because this is going to be fun!

Part 1. Top 15 Most Popular Podcasts In 2025

1. The Joe Rogan Experience

Host: Joe Rogan

Category: Society & Culture

Joe Rogan’s podcast is probably the most listened to podcast today. Starting in 2009, Joe went from comedian (while chatting with friends) to one of the most influential voices in media. The podcast is known for its long, unfiltered conversations with guests ranging from Elon Musk to UFC fighters, and it’s a mix of comedy, science, and controversy. Apple rates it 4.5 stars, and Spotify gives it a solid 4.7. On YouTube, the channel has over 18.8 million subscribers, which makes it arguably the best podcast on YouTube for thought-provoking debates.

2. Crime Junkie

Hosts: Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat

Category: True Crime

True crime lovers, this one’s for you! Launched in 2017, "Crime Junkie" is all about real-life mysteries, cold cases, and of course, solved crimes. It’s consistently ranked as one of the best podcast series for crime enthusiasts. With a 4.8 rating on Apple Podcasts and a 4.9 on Spotify, it’s a chart-topper. Though their podcast doesn’t focus on being watched on YouTube (only 93.1K subscribers), fans have created unofficial channels to share episodes on the platform.

3. The Daily

Host: Michael Barbaro

Category: News

The New York Times' "The Daily" is like your quick morning news espresso. Launched in 2017, Michael Barbaro delivers 20-minute ”stories of the day” for news junkies. Ratings? Well, it’s 4.6 on Apple and 4.5 on Spotify. The podcast is not big on YouTube but is a sure hit on different streaming platforms.

4. Call Her Daddy

Host: Alex Cooper

Category: Comedy & Relationships

"Call Her Daddy" took the internet by storm with its raw and hilarious takes on dating, friendships, and personal growth. Originally launched with Barstool Sports in 2018, Alex Cooper’s show is now exclusively on Spotify. It’s a must-listen for millennials and Gen Z. With a 4.5 on Apple and 4.8 on Spotify, plus over 1 million YouTube subscribers, it’s an icon in its genre.

5. Stuff You Should Know

Hosts: Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant

Category: Education

Ever wonder how the placebo effect works or why left-handed people exist? "Stuff You Should Know" has got you covered. Since 2008, Josh and Chuck have been answering life’s quirky questions. With a 4.7 rating on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, this podcast is a gem for curious minds. Their YouTube channel has over 174K subscribers.

6. SmartLess

Hosts: Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett

Category: Comedy

Three Hollywood buddies hosting one of the best podcast sites? Yes, please! "SmartLess" brings humor and surprise guest interviews that are full of charm. Launched in 2020, it’s climbing the charts with a 4.8 rating on both Apple and Spotify. While their YouTube channel isn’t the main focus, they’ve got a growing following there, too. Around 144K subscribers there!

7. My Favorite Murder

Hosts: Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark

Category: True Crime/Comedy

True crime with a side of comedy? That’s "My Favorite Murder" for you. Since 2016, Karen and Georgia have been mixing laughs with gruesome tales. With a strong 4.7 on Apple and 4.8 on Spotify, this podcast is a cult favorite. Their YouTube presence is modest (1.15K subscribers) but cherished by fans.

8. How I Built This

Host: Guy Raz

Category: Business & Entrepreneurship

Guy Raz’s "How I Built This" is a true motivational ride through the stories of entrepreneurs and innovators. It started in 2016 and is a great listen for dreamers and doers. Rated 4.7 on Apple Podcasts and 4.6 on Spotify, this podcast inspires big ideas. Their YouTube channel has a solid following (over 546K subscribers).

9. Office Ladies

Hosts: Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey

Category: TV & Film

Fans of "The Office" rejoice! Jenna and Angela, stars of the iconic show, take listeners behind the scenes of every episode. The podcast has been a nostalgic treat since 2019, and its ratings are really high. A hearty 4.9 on Apple and 4.8 on Spotify. Their YouTube channel has over 415K subscribers.

10. Armchair Expert

Hosts: Dax Shepard and Monica Padman

Category: Society & Culture

Dax and Monica explore the "messiness of being human" in this deep yet funny podcast. Since 2018, they’ve interviewed celebs and experts with refreshing honesty. With a 4.7 rating on Apple and Spotify, "Armchair Expert" is a fan favorite. Their YouTube channel, however, has only 57.8K subscribers.

11. Lore

Host: Aaron Mahnke

Category: History & Supernatural

If spooky folklore and chilling tales are your thing, "Lore" is a must-listen. Aaron Mahnke’s podcast, launched in 2015, dives into eerie historical events. Rated 4.6 on Apple and 4.7 on Spotify, it’s a hauntingly good time. The podcast's YouTube presence, with 24.7K subscribers, adds an extra eerie vibe.

12. Serial

Host: Sarah Koenig

Category: True Crime

The OG of true crime podcasts, "Serial," made waves when it debuted in 2014. Sarah Koenig’s investigative storytelling is unmatched. With a 4.8 on Apple and Spotify, it’s one of the most influential podcasts ever. The podcast has 22.1K subscribers on YouTube, but it’s a legend on audio platforms.

13. The Happiness Lab

Host: Dr. Laurie Santos

Category: Science & Psychology

Happiness is a science, and Dr. Laurie Santos has the data. From 2019, this podcast is sharing research-backed tips for a joyful life. As far as ratings go, it is a cheerful 4.9 on Apple and Spotify. The YouTube channel is growing, currently with 34.8K subscribers.

14. Freakonomics Radio

Host: Stephen J. Dubner

Category: Economics

If you’ve ever read "Freakonomics," this podcast is for you. Since 2010, Stephen has been exploring the hidden side of everything. It’s got a 4.7 rating on Apple and Spotify and an engaged YouTube audience with 81.5k subscribers.

15. RadioLab

Hosts: Lulu Miller and Latif Nasser

Category: Science

Since 2002, Radiolab has explored scientific and philosophical questions, blending storytelling with sound design. The podcast is acclaimed for its innovative approach to complex topics, and its ranking of 4.8 on Apple and 4.9 on Spotify attests to this fact. The creators are now focusing on being popular on YouTube as well, and their 89.5K and growing subscribers are further proof that they are taking things seriously.

Part 2. Why These Podcasts Rock?

The 15 podcasts in this list span genres like true crime, comedy, and education, showing just how much variety there is in the mix. Whether you are into a true crime rabbit hole or laughing with Hollywood insiders, any of these podcasts can be your trusty companion. Many of them also rank high on YouTube, which proves that visual content also matters when it comes to grabbing the platform’s attention.

Part 3. FAQs of Most Popular Podcasts

Conclusion on Most Popular Podcasts

So there you have it—the 15 most popular podcasts in 2025 that are making waves and keeping listeners hooked. From the hilarious banter on "SmartLess" to the creepy vibes of "Lore," these shows prove that podcasting is here to stay.

They are thriving because they fit our busy lives. You can listen while driving, cooking, or hitting the gym. The accessibility on platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and even YouTube makes them irresistible.

Now, go and explore these gems on your favorite platform, and let the binge-listening begin!