Is there anything better than being wrapped up in a gripping story that pulls you into twists and turns? Investigative podcasts are like diving into the depths of a mystery novel - but with real-life stakes.

From exposing corruption to unraveling long-buried secrets, these podcasts bring the thrill of discovery to your ears. In this article, we’ll take you through the best investigative podcasts to listen to, guaranteed to keep you hooked.

20 of the Best Investigative Podcasts to Listen to in 2026

Let’s jump straight in…

1. Serial

Serial redefined podcasting by diving deep into one case over multiple episodes. Hosted by Sarah Koenig, this podcast takes listeners on a real-time journey of discovery, where each new episode uncovers fresh perspectives on an old crime. Season 1, which explores the 1999 murder of Hae Min Lee and the conviction of Adnan Syed, gripped audiences worldwide with its meticulous attention to detail and compelling storytelling.

Koenig’s narrative style makes you feel like you’re right there, unraveling the mystery alongside her. Every season of Serial focuses on a new case, but the tension, intrigue, and thoughtful reporting remain constant.

2. The Dropout

If you’re fascinated by true crime but prefer a business twist, The Dropout delivers the perfect blend. Hosted by ABC News’ Rebecca Jarvis, this podcast unravels the spectacular rise and fall of Elizabeth Holmes, founder of Theranos. The show meticulously details how Holmes, once hailed as the next Steve Jobs, misled investors, employees, and patients, leading to one of the biggest corporate scandals in recent history.

3. Your Own Backyard

Your Own Backyard is a haunting and deeply personal investigation into the disappearance of Kristin Smart, a college student who vanished in 1996. Host Chris Lambert’s dedication to uncovering new details and speaking with witnesses and those close to the case turned this podcast into a catalyst for real-life action.

His empathetic storytelling and relentless pursuit of answers led to renewed interest in the case and eventual arrests.

4. Anatomy of a Stalker

Anatomy of a Stalker pulls back the curtain on the terrifying world of stalking, offering an unsettling but necessary look at how these crimes unfold. Hosted by Ruchira Sharma, the podcast explores real cases where obsession turns dangerous.

What makes this podcast stand out is its mix of personal insight and expert commentary, as Ruchira partners with legal professionals and mental health experts to dissect the mind of a stalker. Each episode gives listeners a chilling but compelling look at a misunderstood crime.

5. Hunting Warhead

Hunting Warhead is not for the faint of heart. This investigative series, produced by CBC Podcasts and Norway’s Verdens Gang newspaper, exposes a global network of child exploitation hidden in the darkest corners of the internet.

Hosted by Daemon Fairless, the podcast follows a team of journalists and law enforcement as they track down Warhead, the mastermind behind a massive online criminal operation. The reporting is meticulous, and the storytelling is raw and unflinching, making Hunting Warhead a gripping yet deeply unsettling listen.

6. S-Town

At first, S-Town seems like a quirky dive into small-town life, but it quickly evolves into something more profound. Produced by the creators of Serial, this podcast follows reporter Brian Reed as he investigates an alleged murder in a rural Alabama town.

What starts as a true crime podcast story becomes a complex exploration of one man’s life, filled with secrets, regrets, and fascinating revelations. S-Town blends investigative reporting with a deeply personal narrative, leaving listeners reflecting on its emotional depth long after the final episode.

7. The Lazarus Heist

Imagine a nation pulling off one of the most audacious cyber-attacks in history - The Lazarus Heist dives straight into this real-life thriller. Hosted by Geoff White and Jean Lee, the podcast investigates North Korea’s notorious hacking group, Lazarus, which has been linked to some of the most jaw-dropping cybercrimes of the last decade, including the Sony Pictures hack and the attempted billion-dollar heist from Bangladesh Bank.

8. The Trojan Horse Affair

The Trojan Horse Affair explores one of the most controversial scandals in the UK’s recent history. Hosted by Brian Reed (S-Town) and Hamza Syed, this investigative series unpacks the mysterious letter that claimed Islamic extremists were infiltrating Birmingham schools.

What began as a seemingly local issue quickly spiraled into a nationwide debate about education, religion, and radicalization. The Trojan Horse Affair raises essential questions about bias, fear, and how society reacts to allegations of extremism. Each episode peels back new layers, revealing how complex the truth can be.

9. Nice White Parents

Nice White Parents sheds light on the hidden forces shaping public education in America, focusing on the often overlooked role of well-meaning white parents. This podcast, hosted by Chana Joffe-Walt, digs into how decisions made by these parents - though well-intentioned - often perpetuate inequality and segregation within urban schools.

With sharp reporting and insightful analysis, Nice White Parents exposes the complexities of race and privilege in the education system, challenging listeners to reconsider the impact of their choices.

10. I’m Not a Monster

I’m Not a Monster plunges you into the heart of one of the most unsettling stories of recent times - the tale of an American mother who joins ISIS. Hosted by investigative journalist Josh Baker, this podcast uncovers the disturbing tale of how a seemingly ordinary mother found herself entangled with a notorious terrorist group.

Through years of painstaking research, Baker pieces together this chilling narrative, revealing the human complexities behind one of the world’s most feared organizations.

11. Sweet Bobby

What happens when someone you trust turns out to be a complete stranger? Sweet Bobby tells the story of a woman deceived by a manipulative catfish for years, only to discover a much darker reality. Hosted by Alexi Mostrous, this podcast takes listeners through the twists and turns of a shocking case that raises unsettling questions about trust, identity, and the power of deception. With each episode, Sweet Bobby keeps you on the edge of your seat, wondering just how deep the lies go.

12. Dr. Death

Dr. Death is a spine-chilling look at the horrifying case of Dr. Christopher Duntsch, a once-promising neurosurgeon who left a trail of maimed and dead patients in his wake. This investigative series, hosted by Laura Beil, uncovers how the healthcare system allowed such a dangerous individual to continue practicing. Through reporting and jaw-dropping revelations, Dr. Death delves into the cracks in the medical world that failed to stop this surgeon’s reign of terror.

13. WeCrashed

WeCrashed traces the rapid rise and fall of WeWork, a company that aimed to transform office culture. What started with big dreams ended as a cautionary tale of unchecked ambition. Hosted by David Brown, the podcast digs into the erratic leadership of Adam Neumann, WeWork’s charismatic yet reckless founder. Through interviews and analysis, WeCrashed uncovers how Neumann’s grand vision led to one of the biggest corporate collapses in history.

14. The Tip Off

The Tip Off gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at how major investigative stories break. Hosted by Maeve McClenaghan, each episode follows journalists as they chase leads, confront powerful figures, and uncover hidden truths. The podcast focuses on the process of reporting, showing the grit and persistence it takes to expose big stories.

With its insider perspective, The Tip Off highlights the untold effort behind headline-making journalism. It gives a fresh appreciation for the work that goes into changing the world with a story.

15. Bag Man

Bag Man uncovers the shocking scandal of Vice President Spiro Agnew, who was involved in a bribery and extortion scheme while holding office. Hosted by Rachel Maddow, this podcast explores how Agnew accepted kickbacks from contractors during his time as governor of Maryland - and continued the scheme as vice president. Despite his powerful position, Agnew’s crimes were nearly overlooked in the shadow of Watergate. Bag Man exposes how close he came to escaping justice, making it one of the most riveting political takedowns in U.S. history.

16. Overlooked

Overlooked shines a light on the forgotten figures who shaped history but never got the recognition they deserved. Produced by The New York Times, this podcast tells the stories of remarkable people - especially women and minorities - who made significant contributions but were ignored by the headlines. Each episode brings their legacies to life, allowing listeners to discover those left out of the official narrative. It’s a refreshing and important look at history through a new lens.

17. Al Jazeera Investigates

Al Jazeera Investigates brings hard-hitting, global investigations to the podcast format. With journalists uncovering corruption, human rights abuses, and political intrigue, this podcast goes where others can’t. Each episode tackles a new investigation, digging deep into stories often hidden from public view. Whether exposing secret deals or unraveling government cover-ups, Al Jazeera Investigates provides a fearless look at the issues shaping our world today.

18. IJ4EU Podcast

The IJ4EU Podcast highlights cross-border investigative journalism projects funded by the Investigative Journalism for Europe initiative. Each episode focuses on the behind-the-scenes work of journalists collaborating across countries to uncover corruption, human rights abuses, and environmental crimes.

The IJ4EU Podcast sheds light on issues that often go unnoticed by focusing on stories that transcend national borders. It looks at how collaborative journalism holds power to account on a global scale.

19. Long Story Short

Long Story Short condenses complex investigative stories into easy-to-digest episodes. Hosted by an array of seasoned journalists, this podcast breaks down big issues, from political corruption to environmental crises, in an accessible way without sacrificing depth. Each episode tells a concise, well-researched story that makes it perfect for those who want to stay informed but don’t have much time. Long Story Short is the ideal listen for busy people who want quality journalism on the go.

20. In the Dark

In the Dark dives deep into some of the most troubling criminal cases in the U.S., exposing flaws in the justice system. Hosted by Madeleine Baran, this podcast has covered everything from wrongful convictions to child abductions. Each season focuses on a single case, peeling back the layers to reveal how authorities mishandled investigations. With its research and impactful storytelling, In the Dark is a must-listen for true crime fans looking for more than just a mystery - it’s an indictment of systemic failure.

Final Thoughts: Best Investigative Podcasts to Listen To

Investigative podcasts offer a blend of storytelling and truth-seeking, bringing listeners into the heart of compelling mysteries, scandals, and untold histories. Whether you’re into political corruption, true crime, or systemic injustices, these podcasts deliver gripping, well-researched content that challenges the status quo.

So plug in, press play, and immerse yourself in some of the most intriguing investigations of our time - there’s no better way to stay informed and entertained simultaneously.