Film & Television Podcasts

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.

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.

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.

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.

Help I Sexted My Boss

Audio Always

Ever wonder if you are the only one navigating the bewildering, often embarrassing minefield of modern life? Enter Help I Sexted My Boss, the podcast where etiquette expert William Hanson and broadcaster Jordan North come together to provide the ultimate survival guide. This show is a hilarious, chaotic, and oddly comforting collision of two very different worlds. William brings the refinement of traditional manners and historical context, while Jordan offers the unfiltered, relatable perspective of a man just trying to get through the day without a social catastrophe. Each episode is a masterclass in lighthearted absurdity. Whether they are dissecting a listener’s mortifying encounter with a secret stash of Viagra, debating the proper usage of a fish knife, or navigating the social landmines of workplace banter, the chemistry between the pair is electric. You will find yourself laughing out loud at their recurring segments like Normal or Nah, where they put the most bizarre listener dilemmas to the test. Beyond the belly laughs, the duo tackles the nuances of human connection with genuine heart, offering thoughtful advice on everything from family dynamics to intimate relationships. It is the perfect blend of high-brow critique and low-brow fun, proving that no matter how awkward your predicament, you are certainly not alone. Tune in for the banter, stay for the wisdom, and enjoy the ride as these two navigate the hilarious idiosyncrasies of being human.

Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

Audacy

Get a front-row seat to the chaotic, brilliant, and often hilarious world of comedy royalty with Fly on the Wall, hosted by Saturday Night Live veterans Dana Carvey and David Spade. This podcast is a masterclass in industry nostalgia, offering listeners an intimate look behind the curtain of the sketch comedy world. Whether they are deconstructing the high-pressure environment of the SNL writers' room, dissecting the intricacies of crafting a classic character, or swapping bizarre stories from their early days in Hollywood, Carvey and Spade bring a unique, unfiltered chemistry to every conversation. The show thrives on its unpredictable nature. One moment, the hosts might be deep in a technical discussion about the evolution of film production or the nuances of comedic timing with legendary guests like Nathan Lane, Edward Norton, or David Byrne, and the next, they are diving into absurd, tangential anecdotes about life on the farm, viral videos, or the strange realities of fame. The hosts possess a rare ability to bridge the gap between legendary icons and the working comedian's struggle, making the daunting world of entertainment feel remarkably relatable. With a perfect blend of sincere reverence for the craft and the irreverent, off-the-cuff humor that defined their careers, Fly on the Wall is an essential listen for anyone who loves comedy, pop culture, and the fascinating stories of those who helped shape the modern landscape of television and film.

Lovett or Leave It

Lovett or Leave It

Lovett or Leave It is the ultimate weekly audit of the absurdity that defines modern American life. Hosted by Jon Lovett, this show masterfully blends sharp-witted political satire with a genuine, human curiosity about the world around us. Each episode serves as a cathartic space where the week’s most exhausting news cycles—from national administrative scandals and election maneuvering to the bizarre quirks of local governance—are broken down with biting humor and critical insight. The magic of the show lies in its rhythm; it seamlessly pivots from high-stakes political analysis to deep, candid conversations with an eclectic roster of guests. Whether he is dissecting the intricacies of Democratic party strategy with veteran journalists or exploring the nuances of creative partnerships and identity with actors and comedians, Lovett keeps the energy electric. You will hear everything from thoughtful reflections on Hollywood history and the evolution of LGBTQ+ culture to hilarious, game-based segments that manage to turn even the most niche pop-culture topics into compelling debates. If you are looking for a show that respects your intelligence while refusing to take itself too seriously, this is it. By balancing heavy-hitting commentary with a refreshing, often irreverent perspective on the daily news, Lovett or Leave It provides a necessary dose of levity, community, and clarity. It is a smart, lively, and often laugh-out-loud guide to staying informed without losing your mind.

Comedy Bang Bang: The Podcast

Earwolf and Scott Aukerman

Comedy Bang Bang is the gold standard of improvisational comedy, serving as a chaotic, hilarious playground for the industry’s sharpest minds. Hosted by the ever-wry Scott Aukerman, the show blurs the lines between a traditional celebrity interview and a surrealist comedy sketch. In any given episode, you might hear a genuine, insightful conversation about the creative process with a Hollywood veteran like Jon Hamm or Kevin Nealon, only for the segment to be completely derailed by a mysterious disc jockey from Ibiza or a performance artist who specializes in soups and stews. The podcast thrives on its unpredictable, high-energy format. Whether it is a studio sit-down or a raucous performance from a cross-country tour, the show is anchored by an rotating cast of comedic improvisers who inhabit bizarre, fully realized characters. These guests weave intricate, absurd backstories on the fly, challenging Scott to keep pace as they navigate everything from theology debates in the Roman Colosseum to the logistics of a zombie-themed family sitcom. Between the recurring bits like the Balcony Report, the exclusive member clubs for frequent guests, and the sheer joy of watching performers riff without a net, Comedy Bang Bang remains a masterclass in spontaneity. It is an essential listen for anyone who appreciates the art of the detour and the beauty of perfectly executed nonsense.

The Daily Show: Ears Edition

Comedy Central

Tune into The Daily Show: Ears Edition for your essential dose of political satire, cultural commentary, and sharp-witted analysis. As an audio-first extension of the iconic late-night franchise, this program brings together a rotating roster of beloved correspondents and guest hosts to dissect the week’s most bewildering headlines. From the absurdity of high-stakes international diplomacy and the ever-shifting landscape of the Trump administration to the bizarre trends of modern American life, no topic is too strange or too serious for this team. The podcast features a unique blend of formats, ranging from the high-energy, mock-antagonistic debates of the Sports War segments to the deep-dive investigative interviews found in the Time Machine series. You will hear hosts like Jon Stewart, Josh Johnson, Jordan Klepper, and Desi Lydic break down everything from the decay of national monuments and global sporting controversies to the evolving definition of masculinity in the digital age. Beyond the biting humor, the show serves as a vital space for reflection. Through candid conversations with journalists, authors, and actors, the podcast works to navigate the complexities of our current reality. Whether they are mocking the latest policy blunders or analyzing the state of American democracy, the hosts remain committed to finding the truth amidst the noise, offering a refreshing, hilarious, and thought-provoking take on the world around us. Join the conversation and get caught up on the headlines that matter—and the ones that are just too ridiculous to ignore.

The Lonely Island and Seth Meyers Podcast

The Lonely Island & Seth Meyers

Join Seth Meyers and The Lonely Island trio—Andy Samberg, Akiva Schaffer, and Jorma Taccone—for a deep dive into the comedy that changed the internet forever. This isn’t just a retrospective on their iconic SNL Digital Shorts; it is a candid, hilarious, and often meandering catch-up between longtime friends who happen to be responsible for some of the most viral music videos and sketches in history. Each episode blends technical behind-the-scenes stories with the kind of loose, off-the-cuff banter that only decades of friendship can produce. Whether they are breaking down the production madness behind classics like I Just Had Sex and We Like Sportz, or taking a detour to discuss everything from hernia belts and sports fandom to the technical nuances of film editing, the hosts keep the energy informal and infectious. You will hear how they navigated early industry struggles, the logistical hurdles of filming in the pre-YouTube era, and the creative evolution that brought them from DIY tapes in a rented house to the main stage at Saturday Night Live. Packed with guest voice notes, listener Q&As, and sincere reflections on the bond of comedy, the podcast offers an intimate look at the trial-and-error nature of their craft. It is a warm, funny, and surprisingly reflective trip down memory lane that celebrates the absurdities of their careers and the enduring legacy of their collaborative spirit.

Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard

Armchair Umbrella

Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard is a masterclass in radical vulnerability and the art of the deep dive conversation. Hosted by Dax Shepard, the show peels back the carefully curated layers of high-profile actors, directors, athletes, and experts to reveal the messy, fascinating, and deeply human experiences that shaped them. Whether he is dissecting the intense creative process of an A-list filmmaker or navigating the complexities of addiction and trauma with public figures, Shepard creates an environment where guests feel safe enough to be profoundly honest about their pasts, professional struggles, and personal epiphanies. Beyond the long-form interviews, the podcast shines through its Armchair Anonymous series. In these episodes, the show pivots to a more communal, often humorous format where listeners call in to share bizarre, high-stakes life stories—ranging from family secrets and bizarre medical mishaps to run-ins with unhinged neighbors. These segments offer a hilarious and relatable contrast to the heavier, analytical tone of the featured guest interviews. Across all episodes, the show consistently champions the power of curiosity. By focusing on themes like the biology of success, the psychological toll of secrecy, and the resilience required to overcome unconventional childhoods, Armchair Expert transforms celebrity profiles into universal explorations of the human condition. It is an essential listen for anyone who values authentic connection and wants to understand what really drives the people who inhabit our public imagination.

The Ringer NBA Show

The Ringer

The Ringer NBA Show is your essential destination for navigating the chaotic, fast-moving landscape of professional basketball. Whether it is an emergency deep dive into a landscape-shifting trade or a methodical breakdown of a long-awaited championship run, this podcast captures the pulse of the league with sharp analysis and a conversational spirit. The show thrives on its versatile formats, oscillating between the tactical group discussions of the Group Chat and the veteran, insider-driven perspective of the Real Ones. You will hear hosts debate the future of era-defining superstars like LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo, dissect the complex front-office maneuvering behind draft-day decisions, and offer nuanced takes on how modern roster construction—from big-market power moves to patient, methodical building—shapes championship equity. Beyond the box scores, the podcast excels at exploring the human side of the game. The hosts analyze the shifting power dynamics in the Western and Eastern Conferences, challenge prevailing narratives about player roles, and celebrate the moments that define legacies, such as the New York Knicks’ recent historic title. If you are looking for smart, unfiltered basketball discourse that moves as fast as the news cycle, this is the place to be. It is consistently insightful, frequently spirited, and always focused on the big-picture questions that matter most to dedicated NBA fans.

Hysteria

Hysteria

Welcome to Hysteria, the podcast where sharp political analysis meets unvarnished cultural commentary. Hosted by Erin Ryan and Alyssa Mastromonaco, the show is a space for those who are tired of the noise and looking for a real, unfiltered breakdown of the news cycle. Whether it is dissecting the latest shifts in Washington, unpacking the messy contradictions of modern gender roles, or taking a biting, deep-dive look at the people pulling the strings in media and law, this show never shies away from the tough questions. The hosts bring a refreshing blend of skepticism, humor, and intellectual rigor to every episode. You will find them navigating everything from the strategic dismantling of reproductive rights and the performative nature of political "trad-wife" trends to the complex, often frustrating realities of Democratic movement-building. A standout feature of the series is the "This F*cking Guy" segment—a candid, gloves-off biographical takedown of influential figures whose public personas often mask a more calculated, ideological agenda. Beyond the hard-hitting headlines, the show provides a much-needed venue for nuanced conversation, often inviting guests to bridge the gap between abstract policy debates and lived human experience. Hysteria is for listeners who want to go beyond the soundbites, stay informed about the state of democracy, and occasionally laugh at the absurdity of the current political landscape while remaining grounded in the importance of progress and persistence.

H3 Podcast

Ethan Klein

Join Ethan Klein and the H3 crew for a chaotic, unfiltered, and deeply entertaining deep dive into the most bizarre corners of the internet. The H3 Podcast is a long-running staple of digital culture that defies simple categorization, functioning as a hybrid of investigative comedy, pop culture commentary, and workplace reality show. Each episode finds the team dissecting viral trends, navigating high-stakes office competitions, and providing critical, often hilarious breakdowns of the latest celebrity dramas and social media controversies. Whether they are engaging in a serious analysis of legal battles and true crime cases or riffing on absurd internet rabbit holes, the show thrives on its signature spontaneous energy. You never quite know what you will get: one day the hosts might be debating the nuances of a complex news story or a political controversy, and the next they are performing elaborate stunts, testing out experimental segments, or ribbing one another with the kind of rapport that only comes from years of working together. With a focus on honesty and off-the-cuff humor, the podcast captures the weirdness of modern life through a skeptical, witty lens. It is a show for those who want to stay informed on the pulse of the web without taking any of it—or themselves—too seriously. Tune in for the news, stay for the chaotic, family-like dynamic of the crew.

The Smart 7

Daft Doris

The Smart 7 is your essential daily companion for staying informed without getting bogged down in the noise. If you are looking for a fast-paced, intelligent digest that cuts straight to the heart of the world’s most pressing stories, this is the podcast for you. Each episode delivers a carefully curated selection of the day’s most significant headlines, ranging from high-stakes domestic politics and global geopolitical shifts to the latest updates in sports, culture, and entertainment. What sets The Smart 7 apart is its ability to seamlessly weave together complex international crises—like ongoing conflicts in Ukraine or humanitarian disasters—with the nuances of British political developments and the lighter, buzzworthy moments from Hollywood and the sporting world. Whether you are tracking leadership races in Westminster, keeping tabs on major tournaments like the World Cup and Wimbledon, or catching up on the latest in film and music, the show ensures you are fully briefed in record time. The format is perfect for the modern listener who demands accuracy and depth but values efficiency. By balancing hard-hitting investigative reports and critical policy debates with heartfelt tributes and cultural trends, The Smart 7 provides a comprehensive 360-degree view of our rapidly changing world. It is the perfect blend of serious journalism and cultural awareness, designed to keep you sharp, informed, and ahead of the conversation every single day.

Bertcast

Berty Boy Productions

Step inside the world of Bert Kreischer in this long-running podcast that feels less like a formal interview series and more like an open seat at the wildest dinner party in comedy. On Bertcast, the boundaries between host and guest disappear as Bert sits down with fellow legends of the industry, childhood friends, and creative icons to talk about everything from the deep psychological toll of fame to the sheer absurdity of life in the spotlight. Whether he is reminiscing with Johnny Knoxville about the pre-Jackass days on an old tour bus, dissecting the nuances of the comedy industry with Pete Holmes, or breaking down the creative philosophy of filmmakers like David Wain and Ken Marino, Bert brings a disarming, high-energy curiosity to every conversation. The show thrives on raw, unscripted camaraderie, consistently peeling back the curtain on how successful performers navigate public perception, handle the pressures of constant performance, and maintain their integrity in a digital world obsessed with algorithms. You will hear honest reflections on the evolution of comedy, the history of cult classics, and the personal journeys of people who have dedicated their lives to making others laugh. It is funny, reflective, and occasionally profound, offering an intimate look at the people behind the personas and the life experiences that drive their creativity. Tune in for a genuine, unfiltered look at the stories that shape the culture of comedy.

The Sword and Laser

Tom Merritt and Veronica Belmont

Welcome to The Sword and Laser, a long-running sanctuary for fans of science fiction and fantasy. Hosted by Veronica Belmont and Tom Merritt, this podcast serves as a vibrant hub for a dedicated community of readers who love to explore the boundaries of the genre. Each episode is a blend of thoughtful literary analysis and genuine camaraderie, where the hosts pair their latest book club picks with wide-ranging conversations about life, creativity, and the occasional culinary experiment. The show is structured around a signature Quick Burns segment, which keeps listeners up to date on the most important industry headlines, from prestigious award announcements and literary prize shortlists to major adaptation news and shifts in the publishing landscape. Beyond the news, the heart of the podcast lies in the monthly book club selections. Whether they are diving into gritty dystopian classics, experimental narrative styles, or the latest breakout hits in romantasy and cozy fantasy, Veronica and Tom offer deep, often spoiler-filled insights that encourage listeners to think critically about world-building, character development, and genre tropes. With over 500 episodes under their belts, the hosts have cultivated an environment that is as nostalgic as it is forward-thinking. They aren't afraid to laugh at themselves, track their own reading quirks, or engage in lively debates sparked by listener feedback. If you are looking for your next favorite read or a community that celebrates the speculative imagination, grab a seat and join the conversation.

Russell Howard’s Five Brilliant Things

Avalon Television

What makes life truly worth living? Comedian Russell Howard sets out to answer this question in every episode of Five Brilliant Things. Rather than sticking to the rigid format of a standard celebrity interview, Russell invites his guests—ranging from chart-topping musicians and acclaimed actors to fellow comedians—to curate a personal list of the five people, places, or items that bring them the most joy. The beauty of this podcast lies in the unexpected detours. One minute you are listening to a deep, philosophical discussion on spirituality or the creative evolution of the music industry, and the next you are knee-deep in a hilarious debate about the structural integrity of a perfectly toasted crumpet or the eccentricities of childhood memories. It is this mix of the profound and the mundane that gives the show its unique charm. Whether guests are sharing their secret superpowers, unpacking the therapeutic benefits of a home-cooked meal, or reminiscing about the simple pleasures of a village fete, the conversation is always grounded, relatable, and remarkably human. Between deep dives into the lives of stars like Serge Pizzorno, Sindhu Vee, and Peter Serafinowicz, the show captures the common threads of the human experience. Whether you are looking for an insightful look at the complexities of fame and family dynamics or just want a laugh about the small, quirky things that keep us going, this podcast is a heartwarming celebration of the bits of life that matter most.

The Screen Rot Podcast with Jacob and Jake

Jacob Hawley and Jake Farrell

The Screen Rot Podcast with Jacob and Jake is your weekly autopsy of the internet’s most baffling corners. If you have ever found yourself doom-scrolling until your brain feels like static, this is the show for you. Hosts Jacob and Jake act as cultural archaeologists, sifting through the rubbish of modern digital life to examine the viral figures, strange influencers, and surreal celebrity pivots that dominate our feeds. Whether they are dissecting the odd evolution of an Ibiza club owner, the unintended comedy of dancehall rappers, or the bizarre way marketing legends become podcast-circuit staples, the hosts treat the internet with a mixture of sharp skepticism and genuine curiosity. This isn’t just a recap of headlines; it is a deep dive into the weird machinery of fame, the absurdity of parasocial relationships, and the disconnect between the curated personas we see on screens and the unfiltered reality of modern living. The show blends high-energy observational humor with candid, often chaotic personal reflections. From discussing the struggles of quitting vaping to debating the strange aesthetics of self-help gurus, Jacob and Jake provide an irreverent, thoughtful, and consistently funny commentary on the digital landscape. If you are looking for a show that embraces the absurdity of being terminally online while trying to maintain some semblance of sanity, pull up a chair. It’s messy, it’s honest, and it’s a vital look at the strange realities of the information age.