This story was created in paid partnership with Wondery.
Wondery fans may now be afraid to sleep without the light on — and they’re loving it. The company’s true crime podcasts, which range from the slightly unnerving to absolutely terrifying, are heart-stoppingly entertaining, according to listener reviews. And not just for the shock value. They’re also well-researched, empathetic, nuanced, and fantastically produced, say the audio thrill-seekers.
So if you’re down for the mysterious and the unsolved, strap on your seatbelt because we’ve got six podcasts that you’re going to want to binge — and right in time for spooky season. Read below to see what listeners are raving about, and be sure to stock up on your witch’s brew and candy corn. With hundreds of episodes to enjoy, you’ve just found the new soundtrack to your October.
Of the group, Wondery’s “Redhanded” probably takes the broadest approach, covering (of course) big time serial killers, hauntings, possessions, disturbing mysteries, bizarre whodunits and basically anything that tickles the fancy of the shows two hosts: Hannah Maguire, a former actor and aspiring anthropologist, and Suruthi Bala, a former finance worker and world traveler. That range is working, at least for this reviewer: “ They cover cases from all around the world, not just the US, and all kinds of crime. I truly appreciate that when they cover sensitive topics they are respectful and honest.”
Launched nearly 8 years ago, this is another series with an impressive catalog — over 350 episodes— and for another listener, the magic lies in being fun and relatable but also staying on topic. “I don’t listen to many podcasts with more than one host,” they write, “as they tend to be annoyingly self-absorbed and spend too much time off-topic. You both tell compelling stories with just enough humor and compassion. Thank you!”
Being a true crime podcast isn’t easy. You have to tell the story of, say, a gruesome murder in a way that’s compelling but also respectful. In that sense, “Killer Psyche” is absolutely killing it, says one listener. “Candice DeLong does a fantastic job at balancing the realities of awful crimes with the realities and gray areas of our world,” they write. “I can listen and not feel I’m taking part in the further victimization of the individuals involved. And, I always come away feeling like I’ve learned something.”
In this show, now in its fourth season, retired FBI agent Candice DeLong shares specific psychological methods and profiling techniques that experts use to understand some of society’s most heinous acts. “Huge fan of Candice DeLong and her straightforward analysis of both well-known and lesser-known crimes and criminals,” says another listener. “Her voice is nice to listen to, and her storytelling is top notch,” says a third.
With over 120 episodes, Scamfluencers should be required listening before you consider opening any email with the subject line: “You’VE juST WoN $1,00!!!” Together, co-hosts Scaachi Koul and Sarah Hagi shine a light on the grifters and con artists who prey on the worlds of social media, fashion, finance, health, and wellness. In response, one fan has a profoundly philosophical outlook on the show. “Sadly, there are so many scammers out there,” they write, “but happily that means that this podcast should be around for a while.”
The show helps explain why we fall for such obvious lies, and who doesn’t appreciate some good bestie banter along the way? “Such a good show: I love the relationship between Sarah and Scacchi. Makes for such fun listening, well- researched, informative and highly entertaining,” writes another listener. “And ladies, if you’re reading this, you can actually buy heated toilet seats on Amazon for $100. Lol” What’s that inside joke all about? You’ll have to listen to get the tea.
This is one of the OG true crime podcasts. First released in 2010, Wondery’s “The Generation Why” is hosted by two friends, Aaron and Justin, who share their theories on unsolved murders, controversies, mysteries, and conspiracies, like a potentially new suspect in the Zodiac serial murderer in the 1960s. With nearly 600 episodes so far, they show no signs of slowing down or delivering anything but the highest quality product. “I have listened to this show for several years and believe it’s the best podcast for this genre available!” raves one reviewer.
Other fans especially love the dynamic between Aaron and Justin. “Your thorough research is very impressive,” writes one, “and you two have great chemistry together. I’ve listened to every episode about three times, yet I always find something interesting and new.” And a little sonic goodness doesn’t hurt, either. ““Love their voices,” says another listener, “especially Aaron’s!”
Source: Hollywoodreporter
