Arts & Entertainment Podcasts

The Joe Rogan Experience

Joe Rogan

The Joe Rogan Experience is a long-form, conversational journey that dives deep into the diverse facets of the human experience. With each episode, the show serves as a platform for open-ended exploration, where no topic is off-limits and curiosity is the primary driver of the discourse. Whether sitting down with legendary musicians, world-class combat athletes, investigative authors, or political thinkers, the podcast creates an environment where guests are encouraged to speak candidly and extensively about their specific areas of expertise. The show thrives on its versatility. One day you might be listening to a breakdown of ancient historical mysteries and the origins of civilization, and the next you are exploring the nuances of nutritional science, the intricacies of high-end technology, or the raw realities of the entertainment industry. A recurring theme across the catalog is the questioning of institutional narratives and a shared focus on individual health, autonomy, and the preservation of critical thinking in an increasingly digital and polarized world. Known for its marathon-length episodes, the podcast prioritizes depth over brevity, allowing for organic tangents that reveal the authentic perspectives of those at the top of their fields. It is a space built for those who value authentic dialogue, rigorous questioning, and the pursuit of truth, regardless of how complex or unconventional the subject matter may be. It remains an essential destination for listeners seeking long-form, thought-provoking conversation.

99% Invisible

Roman Mars

Ever wonder why the world looks the way it does? 99% Invisible is a celebration of the unnoticed design and architecture that shape our daily experiences. Hosted by Roman Mars, the show peels back the layers of our built environment, revealing the fascinating, often surprising stories hidden behind the objects, infrastructures, and systems we usually take for granted. Whether it is exploring the vast network of undersea fiber-optic cables that keep the internet humming, investigating the historical myths surrounding everyday currency, or diving into the unintended legacies of vintage karaoke videos and plastic stadium horns, each episode is a masterclass in curiosity. The podcast frequently excels at humanizing the bureaucratic and the mechanical, turning everything from government pension files to the history of air-reconnaissance balloons into gripping narratives. A standout feature is the recurring 100 Objects series, which uses specific artifacts to anchor deep dives into larger cultural shifts—such as how a 19th-century spelling book became a tool for liberation or how a single legal pamphlet helped spark a revolution. By uncovering these overlooked connections, 99% Invisible challenges listeners to look at their surroundings with fresh eyes. It is an exploration of how the small, the mundane, and the forgotten often hold the most profound truths about who we are and how we live. If you have ever felt a spark of wonder at the "why" behind the "what," this show is your perfect guide.

The Vergecast

The Verge

The Vergecast is your essential weekly guide to navigating the rapidly shifting intersection of technology, culture, and our daily lives. Hosted by David Pierce and a rotating crew of expert journalists, the show moves beyond mere product reviews to examine how the gadgets we use and the systems we inhabit are fundamentally reshaping human behavior. Whether they are tearing down the latest mobile devices, debating the ethics of AI training data, or exploring the decline of physical media, the team approaches every topic with a sharp, critical eye and a healthy dose of skepticism. What sets the show apart is its commitment to finding the human story buried within the headlines. You will hear deep dives into the practical art of digital disconnection, explorations of how "vibe coding" is democratizing software creation, and candid discussions about the sustainability of massive tech companies like Rivian and Meta. The format is dynamic and conversational, often blending high-level industry analysis with relatable, real-world advice on how to maintain your sanity in a dematerialized age. The Vergecast doesn't just track the news; it interrogates the trajectory of innovation, helping you understand not only what is coming next, but why it matters for your home, your work, and your relationship with the world around you. If you are looking for thoughtful, nuanced, and occasionally humorous insights into the digital future, this is your home base.

The Rest Is History

Goalhanger

If you have ever found yourself wondering how the past shapes our present, The Rest Is History is the ultimate deep dive. Hosted by historians Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook, the show takes a refreshingly human approach to the grand narrative of our world. Rather than delivering dry lectures, the hosts treat history as a living, breathing story, filled with the same messy contradictions, unintended consequences, and vibrant characters that define life today. Across their expansive series, you will find a blend of rigorous scholarship and sharp wit. Whether they are deconstructing the fatal rivalry between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr, tracing the surprising evolution of national anthems, or examining how authoritarian regimes have historically weaponized sports like football, the hosts peel back the layers of myth to reveal the truth underneath. They excel at placing monumental events—like the Dutch Revolt or the end of apartheid in South Africa—into a global context, showing how personal ambitions and grand ideologies collide to spark change. The podcast is perfect for anyone who loves an intellectual adventure that doesn’t take itself too seriously. By balancing well-researched accounts with engaging, conversational banter, Holland and Sandbrook make history feel immediate and relevant. If you want to understand the origins of the modern world or simply enjoy a fascinating story about the people who built it, this is the destination for your ears.

No Such Thing As A Fish

No Such Thing As A Fish

Ever wonder why some rats dream of travel, or how a Victorian parlor game transformed into the modern personality questionnaire? Welcome to No Such Thing As A Fish, the podcast where the world’s most eccentric, bizarre, and downright fascinating facts collide. Hosted by a team of researchers who spend their lives scouring the depths of human knowledge, each episode is a high-energy romp through the obscure corners of history, science, and pop culture. Whether they are dissecting the oddities of professional horse sheath cleaning, debating the architectural ingenuity of Barbra Streisand’s private basement mall, or investigating the historical obsession with Victorian hats, the hosts manage to make the most surreal topics feel essential. You will find a perfect blend of rigorous research and lighthearted banter, often joined by special guests who bring their own unique curiosities to the table. For those who crave even more, the Little Fish bonus episodes offer a delightful community-focused experience, where listener-submitted trivia takes center stage. From the physics of air pressure to the strange mating habits of spiny anteaters, the show celebrates the sheer weirdness of our planet. It is an intellectual playground for the perpetually curious, proving that the more you know, the more you realize that truth is always stranger—and funnier—than fiction. Pull up a chair and prepare to become the most interesting person at any dinner party.

The Rest Is Entertainment

Goalhanger

Ever wondered why some reality stars have more cultural sway than Hollywood legends, or why a simple movie title can make or break a blockbuster? Welcome to The Rest Is Entertainment, where hosts Marina Hyde and Richard Osman peel back the curtain on the weird, wonderful, and occasionally baffling world of modern media. This isn’t your typical industry recap. Each episode feels like a witty, fireside chat between two people who have spent their lives observing the gears of fame, film, and television. Whether they are debating the merits of 90s US sitcoms, dissecting the latest celebrity wedding spectacle, or analyzing the strange, global reach of reality TV formats like Love Island, the pair brings a sharp, analytical eye to the trivial and the monumental alike. The show excels at connecting the dots between pop culture phenomena and the deeper societal shifts happening behind the scenes. From special deep-dive interviews with icons like Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg to lighthearted listener Q&A sessions that explore everything from obscure movie trivia to the potential of a politician becoming an indie-rock idol, the content is as eclectic as it is intelligent. If you are looking for a smart, conversational guide to what we watch, why we watch it, and how the entertainment industry is constantly reinventing itself, you have found your new weekly obsession. Expect deep insights, clever hypotheticals, and the kind of sharp wit that makes the business of show business make sense.

Off Menu with Ed Gamble and James Acaster

Plosive

Step into the dream restaurant, where the menu is limited only by your imagination and the service is provided by two of Britain’s most opinionated foodies. Comedians Ed Gamble and James Acaster host this wildly popular podcast, inviting guests to choose their ultimate dream meal, from the sparkling water they prefer to their final dessert. While the premise sounds simple, the reality is a chaotic, hilarious, and often surreal deep dive into the psyche of some of the world’s most recognizable performers. Whether they are hosting intimate sit-downs with Hollywood stars like Anna Faris or welcoming back comedy favorites for high-energy live specials, Ed and James navigate every conversation with their signature blend of sharp wit and petty interrogations. The show thrives on unpredictability, veering from passionate debates about the perfect focaccia or the ethics of the buffet line to absurdly specific tangents about childhood mysteries, celebrity encounters, and bizarre hypotheticals. Beyond the food, this is a show about the weird and wonderful ways we experience the world. From the tasting menu series—where guests are forced to critique the eccentric choices of their peers—to reflective chats about career journeys and personal histories, Off Menu is as much a comedy masterclass as it is a culinary adventure. It is an unmissable, frequently absurd, and consistently funny exploration of friendship and appetite that will leave you laughing and likely feeling quite hungry.

This American Life

This American Life

For over two decades, This American Life has served as a masterclass in narrative journalism, pulling back the curtain on the human condition through a signature blend of curiosity, vulnerability, and rigorous reporting. Each week, host Ira Glass curates a thematic collection of stories that range from the deeply personal to the profoundly systemic. Whether the episode focuses on the inner workings of a government agency, the life-altering influence of a single book, or the quiet dramas unfolding on a random street corner, the program consistently elevates the mundane into something cinematic. What sets this show apart is its commitment to complexity. You will hear tales of individuals navigating impossible high-stakes dilemmas, from medical miracles and legal battles to the psychological toll of political upheaval. The show excels at finding the friction between our idealistic intentions and the messy realities of life, often exploring how people respond when they reach their breaking point or discover that a long-held belief was built on a mistake. The format is flexible, moving seamlessly between investigative deep dives, intimate interviews, and humorous cultural critiques. It is a show for those who want to understand the fabric of the world a little better—not just through facts and figures, but through the poignant, often unexpected ways we try to define our own stories. It is observational, deeply human, and always surprising, proving that even the most ordinary corners of life are filled with extraordinary narratives waiting to be told.

SmartLess

Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, Will Arnett

SmartLess is the ultimate playground for three of Hollywood’s most recognizable voices: Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett. In this hit series, the trio invites some of the most influential and interesting figures from the worlds of film, music, and comedy for conversations that feel less like traditional interviews and more like hanging out with friends. Each episode begins with the hosts’ signature brand of playful, improvised banter—covering everything from their personal living habits and fashion dilemmas to their latest cultural curiosities—before they dive into the deeper narratives that define their guests' lives. Whether they are sitting down with global icons like Tom Hanks and Jennifer Lopez or visionary artists like Sting and Emma Thompson, the hosts peel back the curtain on the creative process and the grit required to make it in the entertainment industry. You will hear poignant stories about the pivotal moments that shaped these stars, from early struggles in the improv circuit to the pressure of sudden fame and the importance of maintaining authenticity. The show excels at balancing humor with genuine introspection, exploring how high-profile performers navigate family life, professional reinvention, and the evolving nature of their craft. If you are looking for a show that is consistently candid, unpredictable, and deeply human, SmartLess offers a front-row seat to the authentic personalities behind the red-carpet personas.

Good Hang with Amy Poehler

The Ringer

Pull up a chair and settle in for a conversation that feels exactly like the title suggests. In Good Hang, host Amy Poehler invites some of the most compelling voices in entertainment—from cinematic legends like Matt Damon and Colman Domingo to comedic powerhouses like Mindy Kaling and Sarah Sherman—for intimate, unscripted dialogues that bypass the typical press-tour polish. The magic of this show lies in its depth. Rather than sticking to the standard career-recap format, Amy cultivates a space where guests share the formative moments that shaped them: the lessons learned in early service jobs, the evolution of creative partnerships, and the quiet struggles of navigating fame while staying grounded. You will hear about the surprising intersection of dance and social anxiety, the importance of long-term friendships in an unpredictable industry, and the radical act of choosing gratitude over ambition. Each episode is uniquely structured, often beginning with a guest’s friend or collaborator who offers a heartfelt window into the interviewee’s true character before the main conversation begins. Whether discussing the chaos of a writers’ room, the complexities of aging in the public eye, or the shared Midwestern roots that ground so many of these stars, the show is consistently warm, funny, and profoundly observant. It is a heartfelt look at the people behind the projects, celebrating the vulnerability, work ethic, and genuine human connections that make great art possible.

Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend

Team Coco & Earwolf

After decades of commanding the late-night stage, Conan O’Brien is stepping away from the monologue to find out what happens when he ditches the script and simply talks to people. In Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend, the legendary comedian engages in long-form, unscripted conversations that feel less like professional interviews and more like intimate, hilarious hangs. Joined by his longtime assistant Sona Movsesian and producer Matt Gourley, Conan creates a space where the guard comes down, allowing for a mix of absurdity, profound reflection, and genuine human connection. The show is defined by its unpredictability. One moment, you might find the team trekking through Morocco or debating the merits of cannabis edibles, and the next, they are diving into the technical nuances of kinetic art, intimacy coordination, or classical music with world-class guests. Whether he is trading stories with A-list entertainers like Danny McBride and Patton Oswalt or exploring the unconventional life paths of animators and sculptors, Conan treats every guest with curiosity and his signature self-deprecating wit. What makes the podcast stand out is its relentless focus on the "why" and "how" behind the public persona. It is a show about the creative process, the challenges of fame, and the messy, beautiful reality of life, all held together by the undeniable chemistry of a team that thrives on mutual teasing and spontaneous tangents. If you are looking for a show that is as likely to make you think as it is to make you laugh until you cry, you have found your new favorite series.

Waveform: The MKBHD Podcast

MKBHD

Waveform: The MKBHD Podcast is your front-row seat to the fast-moving world of consumer technology. Hosted by Marques Brownlee and Andrew Manganelli, this show cuts through the hype to explore what is really happening inside the gadgets we use every day. Whether they are breaking down the latest smartphone hardware, debating the merits of AI integration, or examining why Apple and other giants are shifting their pricing and design strategies, the hosts bring a grounded, analytical perspective to the table. Beyond just specs and benchmarks, the podcast thrives on thoughtful critique. You will hear deep dives into the growing pains of spatial computing, the evolution of augmented reality, and the delicate balance between software innovation and user experience. The team doesn't shy away from being honest about where tech is failing—like over-processed computational photography or clunky AI implementations—while still keeping the conversation accessible and entertaining. What makes Waveform stand out is its ability to make complex topics relatable, whether they are applying tech analogies to NBA team dynamics or reflecting on how devices are changing our daily lives. With a mix of industry news, hands-on testing, and wide-ranging philosophical chats about the future of digital connectivity, this is a must-listen for anyone who wants to stay informed about the gadgets, software, and trends shaping our modern world. Join the crew for a candid, engaging, and always insightful look at the intersection of humanity and technology.

The Rewatchables

The Ringer

If you have ever found yourself stopping on a movie channel to watch the same film for the tenth time, you have found your new home. The Rewatchables is a weekly deep dive into the movies that we just cannot turn off. Hosted by Bill Simmons and an rotating crew of recurring guests including Chris Ryan, Sean Fennessey, and an array of talented filmmakers and writers, the show deconstructs the films that hold a permanent spot in our cultural lexicon. Whether they are revisiting high-octane 90s thrillers, iconic comedies that defined a generation, or sprawling historical epics, the hosts bring an infectious energy to every conversation. The format is part film criticism, part nostalgia trip, and part rigorous analysis. You will hear them break down legendary breakout performances, debate the absurdity of plot holes, identify the most memorable character entrances, and assign their own signature award categories to the scenes and tropes that stick with us long after the credits roll. The podcast excels at exploring the intersection of art and entertainment, examining why certain movies endure while others fade away. From the technical mastery of directors like Stanley Kubrick to the peculiar charms of good-bad cinema, the discussions are always thoughtful, hilarious, and deeply personal. It is the perfect listen for anyone who treats movies like old friends—films you can revisit indefinitely and somehow always find something new to love.

How Did This Get Made?

Earwolf and Paul Scheer, June Diane Raphael, Jason Mantzoukas

Have you ever watched a movie so baffling, poorly constructed, or unintentionally hilarious that you had to ask yourself, How did this get made? You are not alone. Join hosts Paul Scheer, June Diane Raphael, and Jason Mantzoukas as they embrace the disaster, taking a deep dive into the absolute worst, most bizarre, and frequently unwatchable films in cinematic history. Each episode acts as a comedic autopsy. The hosts and their rotating cast of hilarious guests dissect every questionable decision, from nonsensical plot holes and cartoonish physics to bizarre casting choices and catastrophic scripts. Whether they are tackling high-budget action flops, confusing indie experiments, or forgotten genre relics, the team leaves no stone unturned. You will hear them marvel at everything from 1990s rollerblading aesthetics to the strange, low-stakes tension of extreme sports thrillers. The show is more than just a roast; it is an investigation into the creative failures and eccentric artistic choices that result in movie-making madness. With recurring segments like Last Looks—where the panel revisits listener feedback, corrections, and fascinating behind-the-scenes trivia—the podcast evolves into a sprawling, interactive journey. It is a celebration of the absurdity of show business and a reminder that, sometimes, the most entertaining part of a movie isn't the story on screen, but the utter confusion it leaves behind. If you love dissecting pop culture disasters with infectious, unfiltered energy, this is your ultimate cinematic companion.

Reply All

Gimlet

Reply All was a pioneering podcast that acted as a high-stakes, deeply human guide to the internet and the modern world. At its heart, the show was driven by a relentless curiosity about the stories hiding in the digital shadows—whether that meant investigating the mysterious origins of a bizarre museum button, tracking down the source of an absurd online feud, or diving into the strange, eccentric rabbit holes found deep within Wikipedia. Beyond the tech-focused investigations, the show excelled at finding the emotional core of seemingly disparate topics. The hosts masterfully balanced lighthearted, humorous explorations of internet culture with profound, long-form journalism. They weren't afraid to shift gears into deeply personal territory, using the podcast as a laboratory to examine human connection, the challenges of nostalgia, or the complex, lingering impact of historical trauma on modern families. What truly defined the series was its signature blend of investigative rigor, vulnerability, and a collaborative, conversational spirit. By pairing deep reporting with intimate, often humorous personal anecdotes, the team transformed how listeners viewed their own digital experiences. From the show's iconic, custom-composed sonic landscape to its commitment to truth-seeking, Reply All captured the absurdity and significance of the human experience in the digital age. It was a podcast that taught us how to look closer at the world around us, proving that even the most mundane or obscure stories have something meaningful to say about who we are.

Friday Night Comedy from BBC Radio 4

BBC Radio 4

Friday Night Comedy from BBC Radio 4 is your essential weekly antidote to the relentless churn of the news cycle. Bringing together some of the sharpest satirical minds in Britain, this showcase series serves as a comedic lens through which to view the chaotic state of modern life. Whether it is through the rapid-fire impressions of Dead Ringers, the panel-based intellectual sparring of The News Quiz, or the raw, live energy of The Naked Week, the show transforms the day’s headlines into a playground for wit and absurdity. Each episode delves into the peculiarities of Westminster politics, dissecting leadership dramas, government gaffes, and the strange, performative nature of public discourse. Beyond the halls of power, the program embraces a broader cultural curiosity, poking fun at the rigid tropes of sports broadcasting, the over-dramatization of investigative podcasts, and the bizarre nature of global events. The recurring strength of the series lies in its ability to pivot from biting political critique to surreal, hypothetical scenarios that capture the absurdity of contemporary existence. With a blend of lightning-fast sketches, hilarious mimicry, and informed, irreverent commentary, this collection provides a witty refuge for anyone looking to make sense of the world while having a good laugh at its expense. It is consistently bold, unapologetically clever, and the perfect way to wrap up a long week of news.

THE ADAM BUXTON PODCAST

ADAM BUXTON

Step into the world of The Adam Buxton Podcast, where the art of the rambling, long-form conversation is elevated to something truly special. Hosted by comedian and filmmaker Adam Buxton, this show invites listeners along for a series of incredibly candid, often funny, and deeply human chats with some of the most influential figures in music, comedy, and literature. Whether he is taking a stroll through London with a guest or sitting down in a studio for a deep dive into a creative career, Adam creates an environment where boundaries dissolve. You will hear iconic artists like Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett open up about their collaborative processes, while actors like Kathy Burke and Harry Enfield reflect on the evolution of British culture and their own personal journeys through fame and fatherhood. The beauty of the show lies in its spontaneity. It moves fluidly from the profound—discussing grief, the nature of creativity, and the complexities of parenting—to the delightfully absurd, including lighthearted debates about daily habits or the oddities of the modern digital landscape. With a tone that is perpetually warm, self-deprecating, and thoughtful, Adam provides a space where his guests can drop their guard. It is an essential listen for anyone who appreciates the joy of a good story, the value of staying present, and the enduring power of genuine connection in an increasingly fast-paced world.

Dan Carlin's Hardcore History

Dan Carlin

Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History is not your typical academic lecture. Instead, it is an immersive, high-stakes exploration of humanity’s most pivotal moments, delivered with the pacing of a cinematic thriller. Rather than simply reciting dates and battles, Carlin acts as a narrator of the human condition, placing listeners directly into the psychological, economic, and political pressures that defined the ancient world. The show is famous for its unconventional format, often unfolding over multiple, marathon-length installments that delve deep into specific historical figures and eras. A perfect example is his recent series on Alexander the Great, where he pivots from the brutal, mafia-like dynamics of the Macedonian court to the cold, logistical realities of running a professional army as if it were a high-stakes corporate startup. Carlin consistently probes the big questions: What happens when unchecked ambition meets historical necessity? How do young leaders navigate the volatility of an inherited empire? By stripping away the polish of traditional history books, Carlin highlights the raw, often uncomfortable realities of power and survival. Whether he is dissecting the internal politics of a fractured throne or the philosophical dangers of the golden mean, his analysis feels immediate and urgent. It is a podcast for those who want to understand the dark, fascinating gears that turn behind the scenes of history, providing a profound reflection on the enduring tension between individual greatness and societal stability.

Richard Herring's Leicester Square Theatre Podcast (RHLSTP)

Sky Potato, Go Faster Stripe and Fuzz Productions

Welcome to the world of RHLSTP, the award-winning series hosted by comedian Richard Herring. Recorded live at the Leicester Square Theatre, this show serves as a masterclass in the art of the long-form interview. Whether he is dissecting the careers of legendary performers like Harry Shearer and Mark Gatiss, exploring the musical evolution of stars like Suggs, or hosting deep-dive book club chats with authors like Cally Beaton and Olly Smith, Richard brings a unique blend of curiosity, mischief, and genuine warmth to every encounter. The podcast thrives on its versatility. You might find yourself immersed in a heartfelt tribute to comedy icons like Rick Mayall, listening to an candid exploration of life in your sixties, or laughing along with the rapid-fire, absurdist satire of Rich and Ally’s Craven Newsround. Richard has a rare ability to balance professional insight with complete nonsense, often using surreal humor to break the ice with his high-profile guests. Beyond the laughter, the show is remarkably grounded. It frequently tackles the realities of the creative life, from the grind of the independent comedy circuit to the challenges of aging and the importance of resilience. Whether through hilarious improvised segments or reflective, career-spanning conversations, RHLSTP remains an essential destination for anyone who loves comedy, theatre, and authentic, unscripted storytelling. Join the conversation and discover why this series remains a cornerstone of the UK comedy landscape.

Elis James and John Robins

Significant Productions

Welcome to the world of Elis James and John Robins, a podcast where the trivialities of daily life are elevated to epic proportions through sharp wit, genuine friendship, and a healthy dose of self-deprecation. Since their transition from the airwaves to the podcast format, this comedic duo has created a space where nothing is too mundane to be debated, dissected, or mocked. Whether they are navigating the frustrations of modern technology, recounting bizarre travel mishaps, or analyzing the complexities of growing older, the conversation always feels intimate, relatable, and hilariously unscripted. Listeners are invited into a unique community defined by recurring features like the Cymru Connection, where Elis attempts (with varying degrees of success) to find a shared link with Welsh callers, and a steady stream of listener correspondence that keeps the hosts grounded. You will hear them tackle everything from the perils of fancy dining and workplace hazards to creative, often ridiculous, side projects and reflections on their professional journeys in broadcasting and comedy. What makes this show truly stand out is the undeniable chemistry between Elis and John. It is a masterclass in observational humor, balancing high-stakes creative ambitions—like sold-out shows at the Royal Albert Hall—with the simple joy of finding a decent local farm shop. If you are looking for a show that feels like a long, meandering catch-up with your funniest friends, you have found your new obsession.