When Serial debuted in 2014, it transformed podcasting with its gripping weekly investigative journalism. Listeners worldwide were captivated by host Sarah Koenig's meticulous reporting on Adnan Syed's murder trial.
For countless fans and creators, Serial sparked a renewed passion for audio storytelling. It remains a gold standard in investigative podcasting.
Craving more deeply researched, binge-worthy true crime series? Organize your listens with apps like Pocket Casts, then dive into these eight standout podcasts.
In Undisclosed, three legal experts—attorney and author Rabia Chaudry, University of South Carolina law professor Colin Miller, and attorney Susan Simpson—dissect wrongful convictions and flaws in the U.S. justice system, from investigation to verdict.
Serial fans will love its sharp legal analysis. Seasons cover 'The Murder of Freddie Gray,' 'The State v. Jamar Huggins,' 'The State v. Adnan Syed,' and 'The State v. Joey Watkins.'
Listen to Undisclosed: Web (Free) | iTunes (Free) | Stitcher (Free)
Hosted by bestselling crime novelist and former journalist Tim Weaver, Missing explores real-life disappearances, tracing investigations through forensics, psychology, technology, and more.
Weaver's expertise shines in expert interviews and case breakdowns—perfect for Serial listeners seeking behind-the-scenes insights. (Fans of UK mysteries might also enjoy 10 British Crime Dramas on Netflix.)
Listen to Missing: Web (Free) | iTunes (Free) | SoundCloud (Free) | Stitcher (Free)
From CBC Radio, Someone Knows Something (SKS) revives cold cases. Season 1 probes the 1972 disappearance of five-year-old Adrien McNaughton; Season 2, Sheryl Sheppard's 1998 vanishing.
Filmmaker David Ridgen hosts, blending investigative rigor with narrative flair—much like Serial.
Listen to Someone Knows Something: Web (Free) | Stitcher (Free) | PlayerFM (Free)
Unlike unsolved mysteries, The Mind of a Killer from Investigation Discovery features forensic psychologist Michelle Ward interviewing convicted murderers to uncover their motives.
From the Ivy League Killer to domestic tragedies, each of the six episodes offers profound psychological insights.
Listen to The Mind of a Killer: Web (Free) | iTunes (Free) | PlayerFM (Free)
From the Serial team, S-Town delivers seven episodes of investigative storytelling. Host Brian Reed uncovers secrets in an Alabama town after a tip about a murder cover-up and a family feud.
Listen to S-Town: Web (Free) | Stitcher (Free) | iTunes (Free)
Produced by The Cincinnati Enquirer, Accused reexamines the 1978 murder of Elizabeth Andes: Was the right man convicted, or did a killer walk free?
Nine episodes unravel complexities, with bonus insights from reporters Amber Hunt and Amanda Rossman.
Listen to Accused: Web (Free) | SoundCloud (Free) | Stitcher (Free)
This Atlanta Journal-Constitution series delivers newspaper-quality investigations in audio. Season 1: arson and murder; Season 2 (17 episodes): a toddler's hot-car death; Season 3: 'Predator, M.D.'
Ideal for Serial enthusiasts craving professional reporting. (11 True Story Podcasts for more.)
Listen to Breakdown: Web (Free) | SoundCloud (Free) | Stitcher (Free)
American Public Media's In the Dark Season 1 details the 1989 Jacob Wetterling abduction in Minnesota, solved decades later. Reporter Madeleine Baran earned a Peabody Award for her work.
Listen to In the Dark: Web (Free) | iTunes (Free) | Stitcher (Free)
These eight podcasts pack investigative depth and real journalism. Great for commutes or on-the-go listening. (12 Podcasts for Your Commute)
Got a favorite true crime pod like Serial? Share in the comments!
