I don’t have access to specific articles, but I can certainly generate a detailed overview of the best underrated podcasts to listen to in 2025. Below is an in-depth list of 21 podcasts across various genres that are gaining recognition and deserve more attention.
21 Best Yet Underrated Podcasts to Listen to in 2025
In the ever-growing world of podcasts, it’s easy to get lost in a sea of popular titles, but sometimes the lesser-known gems offer the most rewarding listening experiences. From thought-provoking discussions to gripping narratives, these underrated podcasts deserve your attention in 2025. Here are 21 standout podcasts across different genres that you might not have discovered yet.
1. The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos
If you’re looking for a podcast that delves deep into the science of well-being, The Happiness Lab is a must. Dr. Laurie Santos, a psychology professor at Yale, shares practical strategies based on the latest research to boost happiness and well-being. The podcast isn’t just theoretical—she provides actionable advice that listeners can apply to their everyday lives.
2. The Seen and the Unseen
Hosted by Amit Varma, The Seen and the Unseen provides an insightful, thought-provoking look at the unintended consequences of public policies. Varma’s interviews cover everything from politics and economics to society’s biggest issues, offering a unique perspective on how policies shape our lives. This podcast is perfect for those who want to explore complex issues without feeling overwhelmed.
3. Anatomy of a Stalker
True crime fans will appreciate Anatomy of a Stalker, which takes an in-depth look into the chilling world of stalking. Host Amanda R. Brown dives into real-life stories of stalking victims and perpetrators, often featuring expert interviews with forensic psychologists and law enforcement. It’s a gripping listen for anyone interested in true crime and the psychology behind obsessive behavior.
4. The Louis Theroux Podcast
Louis Theroux, the renowned documentary filmmaker, brings his signature wit and empathy to this podcast. He engages in fascinating, intimate conversations with celebrities, experts, and everyday people. What makes this podcast stand out is the way Theroux draws out deep, personal stories while keeping the mood light with his trademark humor.
5. Hyperfixed
Alex Goldman’s Hyperfixed is a brilliant podcast for anyone who loves deep dives into quirky life topics. From examining the nuances of social behavior to exploring personal dilemmas, this podcast is equal parts educational and entertaining. Goldman’s approach is deeply relatable and provides listeners with a sense of camaraderie as he tackles the perplexities of life in a thoughtful, conversational tone.
6. Don’t Ask Tig
Tig Notaro’s podcast, Don’t Ask Tig, is an incredibly refreshing take on the interview genre. The comedian takes listener-submitted questions and responds with her signature dry humor and candor. Whether discussing the mundane or the bizarre, Tig’s unique perspective and self-deprecating wit make this podcast an absolute gem.
7. Unorthodox
Unorthodox is a podcast about Jewish life, culture, and religion, but it’s not your typical religious program. Hosted by a diverse group of Jewish journalists, the show covers everything from current events to Jewish traditions with humor, empathy, and nuance. The hosts’ personalities and insights make this podcast stand out from other cultural shows.
8. Criminal
For fans of true crime, Criminal is a breath of fresh air. Unlike typical true crime shows, Criminal focuses on lesser-known cases and the often-unseen side of crime. Each episode tells a unique story from around the world, examining the human stories behind criminal acts. Its global perspective and diverse storytelling make it a must-listen for crime aficionados.
9. The Struggles of Being an Entrepreneur
Anyone who’s started or thought about starting a business will find The Struggles of Being an Entrepreneur a refreshing listen. The podcast covers the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, focusing on the challenges, failures, and triumphs that often get overlooked in business success stories. Hosted by entrepreneurs who share their own experiences, this podcast offers a raw, real, and sometimes humorous look at the realities of building a business.
10. The Daily Stoic
Ryan Holiday’s The Daily Stoic provides a short yet impactful daily dose of stoic philosophy. If you’re interested in applying ancient wisdom to modern challenges, this podcast offers practical tips to build resilience, calm, and perspective. It’s an easy listen and a perfect addition to anyone’s daily routine for mental clarity and self-improvement.
11. WorkLife with Adam Grant
Organizational psychologist Adam Grant brings his expertise in psychology, management, and behavioral science to WorkLife. Each episode provides insights on how to make work better, whether it’s improving teamwork, boosting creativity, or fostering meaningful work. Grant’s engaging storytelling and interviews with experts make this podcast an indispensable resource for professionals.
12. Freakonomics Radio
In Freakonomics Radio, Stephen Dubner, co-author of the famous Freakonomics books, explores the hidden side of everything. This show takes on topics like economics, human behavior, and societal issues in a highly accessible way. Dubner’s curiosity-driven approach makes complex subjects feel like fascinating puzzles waiting to be solved.
13. My Favorite Murder
My Favorite Murder is a quirky and engaging true crime podcast hosted by comedians Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark. They share their favorite murder cases (both solved and unsolved), adding humor and light-hearted commentary to each episode. It’s perfect for anyone who loves true crime but appreciates a lighter, more conversational tone.
14. The Infinite Monkey Cage
Hosted by physicist Brian Cox and comedian Robin Ince, The Infinite Monkey Cage explores science in a way that is both educational and hilarious. From physics to biology and everything in between, this show breaks down complex scientific concepts with humor and wit. It’s a fun listen for science buffs and casual listeners alike.
15. Call Me Candid
For anyone interested in self-help and lifestyle content, Call Me Candid offers refreshing, unfiltered advice. Hosted by influencers and best friends, Taylor and Kenzie, the show covers topics like mental health, relationships, career struggles, and everything in between. It’s an honest, down-to-earth podcast that resonates with listeners looking for real-life advice and empowerment.
16. Reply All
While Reply All might not be as underrated as others, it’s still a treasure trove of fascinating storytelling. The podcast explores the intersections of technology, culture, and the human experience in a humorous and deeply insightful way. Each episode dives into internet culture, online mysteries, and digital phenomena, making it an enjoyable listen for tech enthusiasts.
17. Radiolab
Radiolab is a long-time favorite among podcast listeners, but it still manages to fly under the radar for some. This show blends science, philosophy, and storytelling to create a listening experience that is both educational and entertaining. The episodes often explore big ideas about life, existence, and human nature, making it a thought-provoking podcast for those who love to explore complex subjects in a fun and accessible way.
18. The Allusionist
If you’re a fan of language and words, The Allusionist is a delightful and informative podcast hosted by Helen Zaltzman. Each episode explores a different aspect of language, from the origins of words to the quirks of grammar. It’s a fun and insightful listen for anyone who enjoys exploring the richness and peculiarities of language.
19. The Moth
The Moth is a storytelling podcast that features real people telling their true stories live on stage. The show offers a beautiful variety of narratives, from heartwarming to heartbreaking, funny to poignant. These personal stories capture the human experience in all its complexity and are a great choice for listeners who enjoy emotional, relatable content.
20. Small Town Murder
If you love dark humor mixed with true crime, Small Town Murder is the perfect podcast for you. Hosts James Pietragallo and Jimmie Whisman take on true crime stories from small towns across America, with a witty and often hilarious commentary. They dive into obscure and lesser-known cases, providing a blend of investigation and humor.
21. Stuff You Should Know
A classic but underrated gem, Stuff You Should Know is perfect for anyone who loves to learn random facts about the world. Hosted by Josh Clark and Charles W. “Chuck” Bryant, the show covers a vast range of topics, from history and science to pop culture and oddities. It’s an ideal podcast for those who love trivia and want to expand their knowledge in a fun, entertaining way.
Conclusion
These 21 underrated podcasts offer a wealth of knowledge, entertainment, and diverse perspectives. Whether you’re into true crime, self-improvement, science, or just looking for something new to listen to, there’s something here for everyone. So, dive into these podcasts, and you might just discover your new favorite show in 2025!