12 Entertaining Podcasts Topping the Charts and How to Start One

Looking for entertaining podcasts that are topping the podcast charts? Or perhaps you want to start a podcast of your own, and are dreaming of thousands of downloads catapulting you to success. Well, whichever reason brought you here, we’ve got you covered!

Below, we'll explore some of the most captivating podcasts dominating the charts today and share our expertise on how you can launch your own show. Whether you're a passionate listener looking for your next audio obsession or an aspiring creator ready to share your voice with the world, we hope you find something of value in this post!

The Glow Up of Entertaining Podcasts: From Niche to Mainstream

What began as a relatively obscure, niche medium in the early 2000s has exploded into a cultural phenomenon. Today's entertaining podcasts are accessible across numerous platforms, from Spotify for Creators and Apple Podcasts to YouTube Podcasts and other dedicated podcast apps. The barrier to entry has significantly lowered, allowing creators from diverse backgrounds to share their perspectives and connect with audiences worldwide in many different niches/genres. 

This democratization of media has given rise to an incredible variety of content. No longer confined to traditional broadcasting formats, podcasters are free to experiment with episode length, release schedules, and content styles. The result? A rich tapestry of audio experiences that continues to push creative boundaries and captivate millions of listeners worldwide.

12 Must-Listen Entertaining Podcasts Dominating the Charts

With countless options available, finding truly entertaining podcasts can feel overwhelming. We've curated a selection of standout shows across various genres that continuously capture the attention of audiences worldwide.

Captivating True Crime Podcasts That Keep Listeners on Edge

True crime never ceases to dominate the podcast charts. These shows combine meticulous research with compelling storytelling to create utterly addictive listening experiences. 

S-Town immediately captivates listeners with its compelling narrative. The series follows journalist Brian Reed as he travels to rural Alabama after receiving a tip from John B. McLemore, a local clock restorer who believes the town authorities are covering up a murder involving a prominent family. The script, pacing, editing, and music are perfect, creating an immersive and unforgettable listening experience. 

For those fascinated by criminal investigations, Bone Valley offers a painstakingly researched, thoughtfully told account of a 1987 Florida murder. Host Gilbert King examines how Leo Schofield was convicted of killing his wife despite fresh evidence and a confession from someone else, leading to 35 years in prison.

Not all true crime podcasts focus on murder. Chameleon: Hollywood Con Queen reveals the astonishing story of a fraudster impersonating powerful entertainment industry executives. This weird, compelling investigative podcast tells a satisfyingly twisty tale that's mercifully free of blood and violence.

Laugh Out Loud with These Hilarious Comedy Podcasts

When it comes to entertaining podcasts that will brighten your day, comedy shows deliver consistent laughs and memorable moments. 

My Therapist Ghosted Me brings together Irish comedian Joanne McNally and television host Vogue Williams for refreshingly candid conversations. It feels like eavesdropping on brutally honest best pals as they discuss relationships, work woes, health issues, and awkward social situations. This relatable duo offers both sensible and dubious guidance with hilarious results.

Meanwhile, Wolf and Owl features comedy friends Tom Davis (the Wolf) and Romesh Ranganathan (the Owl) engaging in meandering conversations filled with playful banter.

For those who enjoy more adult humor, Why Won't You Date Me? with Nicole Byer features the perennially single stand-up comedian who is disarmingly open about her insecurities and struggles while seamlessly stirring in vulgar humor. Her conversations with guest comedians are consistently entertaining.

Expand Your Mind with Thought-Provoking Shows Like Radiolab

Radiolab has been one of the most popular science podcasts for over 20 years. This trailblazing show launched in 2002 and continually amazes audiences with thought-provoking content. Known for its cutting-edge sound design, each episode explores fascinating scientific discoveries, intriguing historical mysteries, or provocative philosophical questions.

Densely packed and tightly edited, Darknet Diaries covers topics ranging from Xbox hacking to notorious malware attacks. Host Jack Rhysider skillfully weaves informative narratives to unravel complex cybersecurity issues while keeping things accessible for most listeners.

The show Twenty Thousand Hertz dives deep into the world of sound to explain everything from movie trailer sounds to car engines, choral music, the Netflix intro, and beyond. Discover the origins of memorable audio signatures, the emotional impact of different sounds, and the countless ways audio experiences enhance our daily lives.

Binge-Worthy Series That Tell Extraordinary Stories

Some of the most entertaining podcasts excel at narrative storytelling, creating immersive experiences that transport listeners to different worlds.

Looking for fiction? Darkest Night is deliciously creepy and occasionally gross as it lets horror fans relive the last gruesome moments of various corpses that have landed at the mysterious Roth-Lobdow Institute. With wonderful narration from Lee Pace, acting from Denis O'Hare, Missi Pyle, and RuPaul, and clever sound design, it makes for a memorably thrilling experience. Even though it ended in 2018, we still see it popping up in the podcast charts.

Science fiction enthusiasts will appreciate We Fix Space Junk's compact episodes, perfect for filling brief moments throughout your day. The show whisks you away to a nightmare corporate dystopia in a galaxy fraught with evil artificial intelligence and monstrous aliens, following struggling repair technician Kilner and rich murder suspect Samantha Trapp.

History buffs will enjoy Nice Try!, which examines the idealistic visions behind remarkable communal experiments throughout history, investigating their origins, inspiring ambitions, and eventual downfalls.

Why These Entertaining Podcasts Stand Out from the Crowd

What makes these shows so captivating? We've identified several key elements that contribute to their success and staying power in an increasingly competitive medium. 

First, exceptional audio quality is non-negotiable. The most entertaining podcasts invest in professional recording equipment and careful editing, ensuring a seamless listening experience. Even shows with modest budgets prioritize clear, consistent audio that respects the listener's time and attention. 

Second, host charisma and chemistry cannot be underestimated. The personalities behind the microphone often make or break a podcast. Whether it's solo hosts with magnetic delivery or co-hosts with natural banter, the best shows feature voices that feel authentic and engaging. 

Third, innovative storytelling approaches keep content fresh and exciting. From Radiolab's creative sound design to S-Town's novelistic narrative structure, standout podcasts find unique ways to present their material. They know when to introduce tension, when to resolve it, and how to pace episodes for maximum impact. 

Finally, community engagement sets the top shows apart. The most entertaining podcasts foster genuine connections with their audiences through social media interaction, listener questions, and live shows. This two-way relationship creates loyal fans who eagerly await each new episode and enthusiastically recommend the show to others.

Launching Your Own Entertaining Podcast: A Step-by-Step Guide

Inspired to create your own podcast? Here's a quick guide to getting started. 

Finding Your Unique Voice and Podcast Concept

Before recording a single word, take time to develop a clear concept for your show. What topic genuinely excites you? What perspective can you offer that isn't already well-represented? The most entertaining podcasts often spring from authentic passion and expertise. 

Research existing podcasts in your chosen niche to understand what's already being done and how you might differentiate yourself. Listen critically to identify gaps in coverage or approaches that could be improved upon. Your unique angle could be your personality, specific expertise, interview style, or production approach. 

Consider your target audience carefully. Who are you creating content for? What do they already know about your topic? What value will your podcast add to their lives? These answers will help guide your content decisions and marketing efforts down the road. 

Finally, decide on your podcast format. Will you host solo, with a co-host, or feature interviews? Will episodes follow a consistent structure or vary in approach? How long will each episode be? While you can adjust as you go, starting with a clear format in mind will help you maintain consistency.

Essential Equipment and Software for Professional-Sounding Episodes

You don't need a professional studio to create entertaining podcasts, but investing in decent equipment will significantly improve your sound quality. At minimum, we recommend: 

• A good USB microphone (Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB or Blue Yeti)
• Pop filter
• Closed-back headphones (e.g., Audio-Technica ATH-M20x)
• Recording/editing software (Audacity, GarageBand, Adobe Audition, or Hindenburg Journalist)
• Quiet recording space with soft furnishings
• Post-production tools like Castmagic for transcription and content generation

Crafting Engaging Content That Keeps Listeners Coming Back

The heart of entertaining podcasts is compelling content. Start with thorough planning for each episode. Create an outline that includes your main talking points, questions for guests, and notes on pacing. While spontaneity is valuable, structure provides a foundation that keeps episodes focused and engaging. 

Storytelling techniques elevate ordinary information into captivating content. Use personal anecdotes, vivid descriptions, and emotional hooks to connect with listeners. Create tension by posing questions or problems before revealing solutions. These techniques keep audiences invested throughout the episode. 

For interview-based shows, research is essential. Study your guests thoroughly and prepare thoughtful questions that go beyond surface-level conversation. Listen actively during the interview, following interesting tangents while gently guiding the discussion back to your core topics when needed. 

Consistency in both content quality and release schedule helps build listener loyalty. Decide on a sustainable publishing cadence and stick to it. The most common release dates are whether weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. Listeners appreciate knowing when to expect new episodes, and consistent releases help build habits around your show. 

After recording, use Castmagic to transform your audio into a transcript with timestamps and speaker identification. The platform's AI capabilities can also help you identify key themes, pull memorable quotes, and generate content ideas for future episodes, ensuring your content remains fresh and relevant. 

Recording and Editing Your Podcast Like a Pro

When recording, position yourself about 4-6 inches from your microphone for optimal sound. Speak clearly and maintain consistent volume, but don't be afraid to let your natural enthusiasm shine through! Record in a quiet environment, and consider using a "cough button" (a keyboard shortcut that mutes your microphone) for unexpected interruptions. 

For remote interviews, services like Zencastr or Riverside.fm record each participant locally, resulting in higher quality audio than typical video conferencing platforms. Always record a backup on your end, just in case technology fails. 

In editing, focus first on content and structure. Remove tangents that don't serve the episode, tighten long explanations, and ensure a logical flow. Then address technical issues like long pauses, background noises, and volume inconsistencies. Add music and sound effects sparingly to enhance, not distract from, your content. 

Consider creating templates for your intro, outro, and transitional segments to streamline your editing process. Consistency in these elements helps establish your show's identity while saving you significant production time. 

Instead of manually creating timestamps and show notes after editing, upload your final episode to Castmagic. Within minutes, you'll receive an accurate podcast transcript with speaker labels, automatically generated show notes, and even custom content like social media posts and newsletter content based on your episode's themes. 

Distributing Your Podcast and Building an Audience

You'll need a podcast hosting service to store your audio files and generate your RSS feed, which directories like Apple Podcasts and Spotify use to list your show. Popular options include Libsyn, Buzzsprout, Podbean, and Spotify for Creators (which is free but offers fewer features). 

When submitting to podcast directories, optimize your show metadata for discoverability. Your title should clearly communicate your podcast's content while incorporating relevant keywords. Write a compelling description that conveys your unique value proposition, and choose categories that accurately reflect your content. 

Plan your launch carefully to maximize initial visibility. We recommend having 3-5 episodes ready at launch, allowing new listeners to binge your content and get hooked on your show. Consider a "trailer" episode that introduces your podcast concept and sets expectations for future content. 

Use the content assets generated by Castmagic to create a comprehensive launch package: blog posts introducing your podcast, social media announcements with key quotes from your episodes, and email newsletters summarizing your content. This multi-platform approach ensures maximum visibility and engagement from day one.

Marketing Strategies to Grow Your Podcast Audience

Creating entertaining podcasts is only half the battle. You also need to attract listeners! Implement these proven strategies to grow your audience. 

Leveraging Social Media to Promote Your Episodes

Establish a presence on platforms where your target audience spends time. Create accounts specifically for your podcast and transform episode content into engaging social media posts. For example, pull interesting quotes, create audiograms, or design quote cards. Video clips perform particularly well across platforms. 

You can also check out our guide to creating a video podcast to learn more about video podcasting. Having a video podcast gives you a lot more repurposing opportunities than audio alone will. 

Engage authentically with potential listeners by participating in relevant conversations and building relationships with other creators. 

Collaborating with Other Podcasters to Expand Your Reach

Guest appearances on established podcasts introduce you to built-in audiences. Research shows whose audiences might overlap with yours and pitch the value you could bring to their show. Consider hosting guests on your show as well, creating reciprocal relationships. 

Cross-promotion with complementary podcasts through trailer swaps, social media mentions, or bonus content collaborations creates win-win situations that help both shows grow. When interviewing guests, use Castmagic to quickly generate personalized follow-up emails, thank-you notes, and social media announcements that highlight your guest's expertise, strengthening relationships and increasing the likelihood they'll share the episode with their followers.

Monetizing Your Podcast: From Passion Project to Profitable Platform

While passion often drives podcast creation, generating revenue allows you to invest in better equipment, dedicate more time to production, and potentially turn your side project into a sustainable business. 

Sponsorship and Advertising Opportunities for Growing Shows

Contrary to popular belief, you don't need hundreds of thousands of downloads to attract sponsors. Many brands prefer working with smaller, highly-engaged niche audiences. Once you've established consistent listenership, even if modest, create a media kit highlighting your audience demographics and engagement metrics. 

When approaching potential podcast sponsors, focus on brands that naturally align with your content and audience interests. Authentic partnerships feel less intrusive to listeners and generate better results for advertisers. Consider reaching out to businesses you already use and love as your first potential sponsors. 

There are several ad formats to consider. Pre-roll ads appear at the beginning of episodes, mid-roll ads interrupt the main content, and post-roll ads close out the show. Host-read ads, where you personally endorse the product or service, typically perform better than pre-recorded spots from advertisers.

Pro Tip: Use Castmagic’s Magic Chat to help identify potential sponsorship opportunities based on topics discussed in your podcast episodes.

The platform's content analysis can reveal patterns and themes in your episodes that might align with particular brands or industries, making your sponsorship outreach more targeted and effective.

Alternative Revenue Streams: Memberships, Merchandise, and More

Membership platforms like Patreon allow dedicated listeners to support your show financially in exchange for exclusive content, early access to episodes, or community features. Even a small percentage of your audience becoming paying supporters can generate significant income. 

Merchandise offers another revenue opportunity while simultaneously turning listeners into walking advertisements for your show. Start simple with branded t-shirts, mugs, or stickers featuring your podcast logo or memorable catchphrases from your episodes. 

Premium content, such as bonus episodes, extended interviews, or ad-free versions of your show, provides additional value for dedicated fans willing to pay. Consider creating courses or digital products related to your podcast topic for more substantial revenue opportunities. 

Live events, whether virtual or in-person, can generate ticket sales while strengthening community connections. Q&A sessions, live recordings, or themed discussions all work well in event formats and create memorable experiences for your audience.

Turning Passion into Podcasting Success

If you're inspired to launch your own show, remember that the most successful podcasts begin with genuine passion and a commitment to quality. Start with a clear concept, invest in decent equipment, create compelling content, and implement thoughtful marketing strategies. With persistence and creativity, your podcast can find its audience and potentially grow into a profitable platform. 

And remember, tools like Castmagic can dramatically streamline your podcast production workflow, allowing you to focus on what matters most: creating engaging content that connects with your audience. From automatic transcription and show notes to AI-generated social media content and marketing materials, these innovative solutions empower creators of all experience levels to produce professional, entertaining podcasts without getting bogged down in time-consuming post-production tasks. You can try Castmagic here for free. 

What will you listen to or create next?