I think it’s safe to assume that there’s a true crime fanatic in all of us- even if it’s just the smallest bit. I, for one, have always been fascinated by stories of cold cases, true crime and spooky tall tales. With Halloween fast approaching, it’s even more appropriate to delve into mysterious stories of murder, strange encounters and other unexplained phenomenons. Here’s a list of 5 good podcasts that not only explore true crime tales, but also stories of folklore and mystery. Whatever it is that you like, some of these will surely leave the little fanatic in you wanting more.If these stories just aren’t enough to keep your spooky appetite at bay, you can always check out these scary sights in person!
1. My Favorite Murder
I’ll be the first to admit that this is my all-time favorite true crime podcast to listen to. The hosts, Karen and Georgia, are two witty women who cover stories from “classic” serial killers like Jeffrey Dahmer, to unique and unusual murder tales. Both hosts are down to earth and are also strong advocates for mental health awareness, which is always great and much needed to bring awareness to in the criminal justice system! The flow of their conversations and stories are so natural, you feel like you’re talking to your two BFFs. Also, these ladies have made their line, “Stay Sexy, Don’t Get Murdered”, which only adds to their true crime charm.
2. Lore
Via LorePodcast.com
This ~spooky~ podcast takes a bit of a different approach to stories. What makes it so interesting is that it pulls on common folklores (hence, the name) that almost everyone knows, then evaluates the theories and logical explanations that lie behind them. Host Aaron Mahnke narrates events like the Salem Witch Trials in which they unfolded, and then discusses how such events and tall tales grew to be so menacingly mysterious, which adds so much suspense and character to the stories. Overall, “Lore” has plenty of episodes to choose from and are perfect for listening to during walks to class or traffic-filled commutes home.
3. True Crime Garage
Like “My Favorite Murder”, this one is also just two pals cracking open some cold ones and discussing some serious true crime- only, in a garage (really literal podcast title). The two hosts talk about specific stories in each episode, giving detailed accounts of surrounding reports, before diving into long discussions of psychology, trends and their own perspectives. Overall, this one’s just nice to listen to if you’re really into longer evaluations of some spooky encounters.
4. Sword and Scale
Sword and Scale is another pretty popular podcast not just for murders, but also for some detailed (sometimes too graphic) dark crimes from the past and present. If you’re into less conversational dialogue and more story-telling with deep discussions, this one is probably for you. With 100 episodes to choose from, this show has gained a huge following over the years due to its eery detailed touches in production and wide selection of morbid true crimes.
5. Last Podcast On The Left
Touching more on the “friends talkin’ about crime” feel, “Last Podcast On The Left” features a funny trio (hosts Marcus, Ben and Henry) and a collection of all sorts of scary stories. What makes this podcast so great is that the hosts don’t just focus on true crime or murders, they also talk about mysterious hauntings and older stories of terror. They have even discussed things like Kurt Cobain’s suicide and the theories that have grown to surround it.
As Halloween time draws closer and old tales come back to haunt, these podcasts will both entertain and keep you up at night. Treat your inner true crime fan to some deep discussions and much needed spooky story time this fall.