The best Wondery podcasts of 2024

Listening to podcasts has evolved into a staple pastime for many. With the abundance of options available, it’s only natural to gravitate toward the best....

Listening to podcasts has evolved into a staple pastime for many. With the abundance of options available, it’s only natural to gravitate toward the best. One name that stands out when it comes to producing engrossing podcasts is Wondery. Known for their rich content crossing topics from true crime to Hollywood glamour, Wondery has made a home in our favorite podcasts list. In this article, we dive into the world of Wondery podcasts and showcase why they are some of the best to tune into in 2023.

Why choose Wondery podcasts?

Wondery isn’t just another podcast production house; it's a storytelling giant. With hosts like Lindsay Graham and Laura Beil, and partnerships with platforms like Apple Podcasts and Amazon Music, Wondery delivers a broad spectrum of podcast genres to its listeners. These range from the gripping narratives in true crime podcast series to entrepreneurs' life stories. Here are the top reasons why Wondery podcasts should be in your listening rotation:

- Ad-Free Listening: Wondery+ subscribers enjoy an ad-free experience, elevating the immersive quality of each episode.

- Early Access: Jump the queue and get early access to new episodes, a feature also exclusive to Wondery+ subscribers.

- Broad Range: Whether it's a pop culture series you crave or a deep dive into dark, small-town America secrets, Wondery has something for everyone.

The crème de la crème

As we navigate the captivating universe of Wondery podcasts, it's only fitting that we spotlight the ‘crème de la crème,’ the shows that have not only gathered widespread acclaim but have also set the gold standard for storytelling.

Dr. Death

"Dr. Death" narrated by Laura Beil is a true crime podcast that gripped America. The story dives into the dark world of medicine, questioning how a system that’s supposed to help can go so terribly wrong. Dr. Death was so popular that it inspired a TV adaptation on Peacock, bringing its chilling narrative to even more audiences. The first season explores the horrifying case of Dr. Christopher Duntsch, a Texas neurosurgeon whose gross negligence in the operating room left numerous patients hurt and even resulted in some deaths. What's perhaps most disturbing is how the medical system failed to stop him despite glaring red flags. It's a dive into a medical horror story that sounds almost too shocking to be true, making it one of Wondery’s most darkly captivating series.

Business wars

Hosted by David Brown, "Business Wars" brings corporate America’s high-stake battles into the limelight. From the cola wars to Hollywood's biggest studio rivalries, this podcast gives you a detailed view of what goes on behind the scenes. true crime and American scandals to focus on something equally riveting but often less explored in mainstream storytelling: the world of high-stakes business competition. Hosted by David Brown, this podcast takes you behind the scenes of some of the biggest corporate rivalries in history. Whether it's Nike vs. Adidas, Coca-Cola vs. Pepsi, or Netflix vs. Blockbuster, "Business Wars" gets into the strategies, betrayals, and high-stakes gambles companies make in their quest for market dominance.

American scandal

An engrossing series hosted by Lindsay Graham, "American Scandal" looks into the shadier aspects of American history. From political downfalls to sordid Hollywood affairs, this podcast dives into the scandals that have shaped the nation. Among Wondery's most riveting offerings is "American Scandal," a podcast that brings America’s most controversial events to life through immersive storytelling. Hosted by Lindsay Graham (not to be confused with the U.S. Senator), this podcast dives deep into the dark corners of America's history, unearthing the scandals that shook the nation and had lasting impacts on its citizens.

The shrink next door

This podcast is a bewildering true story of a psychiatrist who exploited his relationship with patients, hosted by Joe Nocera. It’s a tale that leaves you questioning ethics and the boundaries of professional relationships. "The Shrink Next Door," hosted by Joe Nocera, is another standout offering in Wondery's podcast lineup that discusses the complicated world of psychological manipulation and power dynamics within a therapist-patient relationship. The show is a deep dive into the true story of Isaac Herschkopf, a New York psychiatrist, and his long-term patient Martin Markowitz. Over the course of their decades-long relationship, Dr. Herschkopf slowly takes over Markowitz's life, moving into his Hamptons home and even taking over his family business.

Over my dead body

Hosted by Matthew Shaer, "Over My Dead Body" talks about relationships that went horribly awry, leading to unforeseen and often morbid consequences. The storytelling style embraces a mix of first-hand interviews, investigative journalism, and atmospheric narration that combines to create a suspenseful yet nuanced view of the human experience. As a true crime podcast, it has a proclivity for choosing stories that are not only shocking but also culturally or socially significant. Through in-depth exploration, it uncovers layers of deceit, manipulation, and sometimes, resilience, providing a well-rounded perspective on often polarizing subjects.

American history tellers

Hosted by Lindsay Graham, this is an eye-opener for anyone interested in the events that built America. The series takes listeners through pilgrimages, wars, and revolutions, constructing a detailed chronology of how America came to be. What sets "American History Tellers" apart is its unique approach to historical events. Instead of a dry recitation of facts and dates, the podcast places listeners in the shoes of everyday people living through extraordinary times. Whether it's the tense atmosphere of the Cold War, the social revolutions of the 1960s, or the Gold Rush fever that swept the nation, you're not just learning about history — you're living it through expert storytelling.

The new additions

As Wondery continues to broaden its horizons, several new additions to their lineup prove that innovation and storytelling remain at the forefront of their mission.

Killer Psyche

A new podcast hosted by Candice DeLong, a former FBI criminal profiler, "Killer Psyche" dives into the minds of America's most notorious criminals. Unlike a standard true crime podcast that focuses on the "what" and "how" of crimes, "Killer Psyche" digs into the "why." It explores the internal landscapes of infamous figures from history and current events, be the serial killers, scammers, or controversial leaders. Each episode provides not just a recounting of the deeds but also a psychological evaluation of the person behind them, providing insights into the conditions, experiences, and thought processes that contribute to evil acts.

Scamfluencers

This podcast is an exposé on internet fraudsters who have made a business out of scamming people online. Hosted by Christian, it’s a must-listen for anyone who spends considerable time on the internet. While many podcasts explore the allure and influence of digital culture, "Scamfluencers" serves as a cautionary tale, revealing the darker aspects of the online world. It dives not just into the scams themselves but also into the psychology of both the scammers and the scammed. It's not just about the actions but also the 'why' — what drives someone to exploit their followers, and what makes people fall for scams in the first place.

Vanished podcast

In this dark narrative hosted by Mike, "Vanished" explores mysterious disappearances across America. Each episode dives into a new case, seeking answers and closure for families and friends of the vanished. Unlike typical true crime podcasts that focus on solved or high-profile cases, "Vanished Podcast" concentrates on lesser-known stories that may not have received the media attention they deserve. Each episode goes beyond the headlines or, in some cases, the lack of headlines, to explore the intricate details surrounding these mysterious disappearances. The research is exhaustive, often involving interviews with family members, law enforcement officials, and experts in related fields. "While many assume that media attention always equates to resolved cases, 'Vanished Podcast' reveals that this assumption was wrong, as it highlights the numerous stories that have slipped through the cracks, lacking the media coverage they truly deserve."

Other notable mentions

If you're a passionate fan of Wondery's offerings, there are a few other podcasts and platforms that deserve mention for their ability to captivate audiences in similar ways:

1. "Serial" by Sarah Koenig:

One of the original podcasts that brought the true crime genre into mainstream attention, "Serial" delivers investigative journalism in a serialized format that keeps listeners hooked.

2. "Pod Save America":

For those interested in American Scandal or American History Tellers, this political podcast offers insightful commentary and interviews related to the current American political landscape.

3. "S-Town" by Brian Reed:

From the creators of "Serial," this podcast is another deep dive into a small town's secrets and complexities, akin to Wondery's emphasis on investigative storytelling.

4. "TED Radio Hour":

If you appreciate Guy Raz's ability to bring out fascinating stories from entrepreneurs in "How I Built This," you may also enjoy this podcast, which expands upon various TED Talks and the ideas they present.

5. "The Joe Rogan Experience":

A long-form conversation hosted by Joe Rogan, covering topics as diverse as science, pop culture, and health, providing a breadth of topics similar to Wondery's diverse offerings.

6. "Radiolab" by WNYC Studios:

If you appreciate Wondery's knack for diving deep into a topic, you'll likely enjoy Radiolab's exploration of scientific and philosophical topics.

7. "My Favorite Murder":

For those who enjoy Wondery's true crime podcast range, this comedy podcast takes a lighter approach to real-life murder cases.

8. "The Michelle Obama Podcast":

Available on Spotify, this podcast offers intimate conversations with the former First Lady and her guests, touching on topics from personal life to broader social issues.

9. "Netflix’s 'You Must Remember This'":

Film enthusiasts who enjoy Wondery’s dives into Hollywood history may find this podcast about the hidden history of Hollywood's golden age quite engaging.

10. "The Tim Ferriss Show":

Similar to Wondery’s “Business Wars,” this podcast provides insightful interviews with some of the world's top performers, from entrepreneurs and authors to athletes.

All of these podcasts offer unique angles and storytelling elements that can enrich your auditory experience, comparable to what Wondery podcasts bring to the table.

How to listen?

Wondery podcasts can be streamed through multiple platforms:

- Wondery App: Enjoy a personalized listening experience.

- Apple Podcasts: A favorite among iPhone users.

- Amazon Music: For those who prefer Amazon's ecosystem.

- Bloomberg: For a more business-focused approach.

- Netflix and Peacock: Some podcasts, like "Dr. Death" and "Dirty John," have been adapted into shows.

Related recommendations

If you've enjoyed the Wondery podcasts mentioned in this article, you might also be interested in expanding your listening universe with some other noteworthy options:

1. "How I Built This" by NPR:

Hosted by Guy Raz, this podcast is a treasure trove for aspiring entrepreneurs and anyone interested in the origin stories behind some of the world's most iconic companies.

2. "SmartLess":

A celebrity-filled podcast hosted by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett, "SmartLess" offers a fresh and entertaining look at various topics, from Hollywood glamour to serious global issues.

3. "True Crime Obsessed":

If you are a fan of Wondery's true crime offerings like "Dr. Death" or "Killer Psyche," this podcast offers comedic recaps of true crime documentaries with hosts Gillian Pensavalle and Patrick Hinds.

4. "The Daily" by The New York Times:

For those who appreciate the in-depth investigative work seen in many Wondery podcasts, "The Daily" provides a deeper understanding of current events through expert interviews and detailed storytelling.

5. "Bad Batch" by Laura Beil:

By the same journalist who brought you "Dr. Death," this podcast talk about the controversial world of stem cell therapy and its associated scandals.

6. "Overheard at National Geographic":

For those captivated by "American History Tellers," this podcast offers unusual and surprising stories pulled from the pages of National Geographic.

7. "Morbid: A True Crime Podcast":

If you can't get enough of true crime podcasts, this one dives into the creepy, the gruesome, and yes, the morbid.

8. "Peacock's Dark Web Exposed":

Available on Peacock, this series could be a perfect visual follow-up to "Scamfluencers," diving into the dark underbelly of the internet.

9. Bloomberg's "Out of Office":

If "Business Wars" intrigued you, this podcast offers a different perspective on the business world, focusing on the leisure side of entrepreneurs and executives.

10. "Flipping the Bird":

This new podcast takes an unfiltered look at pop culture, much like "American Scandal" lifts the veil on significant events and controversies.

All of these podcasts are easily accessible, and most can be found on platforms such as Apple Podcasts and Amazon Music. For those who love stories of human resilience, 'Against the Odds' is all about real-life tales of survival, while 'Blood Ties' offers a fictional but compelling family drama, and 'The Dating Game Killer' unnervingly explores the life of a criminal who once appeared on a TV dating show.

From the sunny realms of Hollywood to the depths of dark American scandals, Wondery podcasts cover a multitude of themes. Whether you join Wondery for the new episodes of your favorite podcast or to explore their rich catalogue, your search for captivating storytelling ends here. So, whether you're in Los Angeles or a small town, in English or another language, Wondery has something for everyone. Head to wondery.com to join and explore their offerings.

So go ahead, find your next podcast obsession today. After all, what could be better than tuning into an ad-free episode of "Business Wars" while reading a Bloomberg article on your latest Netflix favorite, all brought to you by the wondrous world of Wondery?

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FAQs

What is the Wondery controversy?

Wondery has generally been known for its high-quality, investigative podcasts, but it hasn't been without controversy. Issues around the ethical representation of victims in true crime stories, as well as debates about the commercialization of sensitive topics, have sometimes put Wondery under survey. However, the company has made efforts to address these concerns by focusing on responsible storytelling.

Which podcasts are on Wondery?

Wondery boasts a diverse range of podcasts including but not limited to "Dr. Death," "American History Tellers," "American Scandal," "Business Wars," "Killer Psyche," "Vanished Podcast," "Scamfluencers," and many more. The platform offers something for everyone, from true crime and business to history and pop culture.

Is Wondery included with Amazon Prime?

Wondery is not automatically included with an Amazon Prime subscription. However, Amazon did acquire Wondery, and some of its podcasts are available on Amazon Music. For the full range of Wondery content, including early access to episodes and an ad-free listening experience, a separate subscription to Wondery+ is generally required.

With Wondery's extensive, high-quality podcast lineup and the transcription ease offered by Speechify Audio Video Transcription, you're well-equipped to dive into the rich narratives that reflect the complexities, wonders, and sometimes, the darker corners of human experience.