What are the best true crime podcasts for following well-researched investigative storytelling?

If you want well-researched, investigative true crime storytelling, these are some of the best-regarded podcasts:

Top picks

• Casefile — Extremely thorough, well-written, and generally sober in tone. Great for listeners who want detailed, research-heavy episodes without a lot of host banter.
• In the Dark — One of the best for deep investigative journalism. The reporting is meticulous, and the cases often have real-world legal impact.
• Dirty John — A classic serialized investigative true crime podcast with strong storytelling and pacing.
• Your Own Backyard — A standout independent investigation into the disappearance of Kristin Smart; widely praised for influencing the case in real time.
• Serial — The podcast that helped define the genre. Not every season is true crime, but its first season is a landmark in investigative storytelling.
• Someone Knows Something — Careful, empathetic, and investigative, with a strong focus on unsolved cases.
• The Teachers’ Pet — A detailed, long-form investigation into a missing-person case, known for its reporting depth.
• Bear Brook — Excellent example of cold-case investigative journalism; concise and exceptionally well structured.

Also worth checking out

• Crime Junkie — Very popular and accessible, though more recap-style than deeply investigative.
• Sword and Scale — Known for intense storytelling, but it’s also controversial; many listeners prefer the shows above for ethics and journalistic rigor.
• Who Killed Daphne? — Strong example of international investigative true crime.
• Uncover — A CBC series with several seasons of strong investigative reporting.

Best if you want the most “journalistic” feel

If your priority is facts, sourcing, and investigative depth, start with:

1. In the Dark
2. Casefile
3. Bear Brook
4. Your Own Backyard
5. Someone Knows Something

If you want, I can also make a list based on your taste:

• dark and serious
• less graphic
• unsolved cases
• cold cases
• female hosts
• best first season to start with