As podcast veterans at MakeUseOf, we've curated audio gems for years. Following our Top 20 Podcasts of 2015, here are 12 standout picks from 2016. Ideal for inspiration, discovery, or pure entertainment, these shows deliver lasting value.
Podcasts trace back to 1930s radio, but today they're on-demand internet audio files. Unlike structured audiobooks (key differences here), podcasts feel conversational and personal. Stream them on Stitcher, SoundCloud, or Spotify—or record your own with a phone. Some tales are so gripping, they'll make your life seem mundane (11 true-story examples).
Our experts selected these top-rated 2016 podcasts—new releases and timeless classics—for your 2017 playlist and beyond.
"A podcast about what people never teach you: how to manage your 20s." Produced by Portland's Megan Tan, Millennial joined Radiotopia as its 14th show in 2016. It's her candid audio autobiography, featuring friends, family, and colleagues. Relatable insights for anyone navigating career, relationships, and purpose in their twenties.
Hosted by BBC veterans Nigel Warburton and David Edmonds, Philosophy Bites delivers bite-sized interviews with top philosophers on focused topics. With over 25 million downloads and episodes compiled into books, it's perfect downtime brain food.
Board game experts Paul Dean and Quinn Smith break down titles like Dead of Winter. Shut Up & Sit Down covers board, card, and party games—essential for impressing friends and family at home.
Hosted by Chris Hardwick, Jonah Ray, and Matt Mira, The Nerdist explores "what it really means to be a nerd" through comedian and geek culture interviews. Launched in 2010, its popularity exploded—pair it with the TV spin-off for more.
Pitch is a narrative deep-dive into music, hosted by journalists Alex Kapelman, Whitney Jones, and Afi Yellow-Duke. Gain insider insights on your favorites and stay ahead of industry trends.
David Plotz demystifies American jobs in Working: from nuclear experts to White House staff and immigration lawyers. Answers to those questions you've always wanted to ask your neighbors.
"The world's leading forum for debate." Intelligence Squared offers live events (stream on YouTube) and podcasts on global issues. Sharpen your mind and debate skills during commutes.
Developer Casey Liss and podcaster Myke Hurley unpack gadgets' real-world impact—good and bad—in Analog(ue). Covers U.S. and U.K. perspectives on how tech shapes lives.
Guy Branum, Wynter Mitchell, Margaret Wappler, and Oliver Wang dissect pop culture news with humor. From media buzz to viral debates like #TheDress, plus recs for shows, books, and music.
Jonathan Mitchell's The Truth is audio fiction—"movies for your ears." 10-20 minute standalone stories blend spooky fun with improvised dialogue and surprise twists.
WNYC's award-winning Radiolab blends science, philosophy, stories, interviews, sound design, and experimental music. ~60-minute episodes across 14 seasons make it a compelling classic.
Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant tackle everything from spam to hangovers in Stuff You Should Know (SYSK). Millions of monthly downloads keep it iTunes Top 10—don't miss the 2013 Science Channel TV show.
Ready to start? Our guides cover the best iOS apps, top Android podcast apps, Windows managers, and lightweight Linux players.
Agree with our 2016 picks? What podcasts deserved a spot? Share your favorites in the comments!
