You Won't Want to Miss These Top Horror Podcasts of 2023
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There's something to be said about those who spend their leisure time purposely scaring themselves by consuming some of the most horrifying forms of entertainment. Yeah, we're talking about fans of murder mystery books, horror movies, and all things Halloween! But, hey, there's no need to be ashamed—because even Ree Drummond partakes some of the spooky things in life (she's a fan of true crime podcasts)! And while we're on the topic of podcasts and terrifying fun, we thought it would be a good time to list the best horror podcasts out there, too.
You might be surprised to learn just how many horror podcasts there actually are. Yes, some true crime podcasts, such as My Favorite Murder and Dr. Death, made this list. But you'll also find plenty of truly terrifying fictional listens that will have you sleeping with one eye open—or at least a night light. There's even a podcast that features first-person accounts from survivors who endured terror and suspense like you've (hopefully) never known. And if you're into ghost movies, you'll find a couple paranormal options here to haunt your dreams. Take a look through these horror podcasts, and pick one that feels right for you. Just don't blame us if you start losing sleep at night! 😂
Unwell
Chosen families are usually special. For Lillian Harper, it's sinister. Follow the fictional story of a woman who moves to the extremely small town, Mt. Absalom, Ohio—where ghosts outnumber people.
Limetown
Longtime reporter Lia Haddock hosts this 6-part podcast about a real life mystery: The disappearance of an entire town (made up of 300 citizens), who seemingly just fell off the grid. Listen as she breaks down the facts of the before, the during, and the after.
Scary Story Podcast
If you're intrigued by paranormal activity, but still completely petrified of the stuff, you might find Scary Story Podcast the perfect middle ground. Yes, weird, unexplained happenings will be told—but the entire premise of the podcast is that these stories are fictional, giving the host some creative, spooky freedom.
Creepy
If you're a fan of urban legends, then you'll want to tune into this podcast immediately. Host Jon Grilz picks the most bizarre and disturbing stories that were alleged to happen—providing context, evidence, and his take on the whole scene.
PseudoPod
Probably one of the more bone-chilling podcasts on this list—PseudoPod focuses on made up stories written by some the world's most creative, extremely descriptive authors. This one isn't for the weak as the authors don't hold anything back!
The NoSleep Podcast
The title of this one says it all! 😉 But don't worry—though the stories are nothing short of terrifying, they are also 100% fictional. There are hundreds of ghostly and gory episodes to choose from, feeding the appetite of horror-hungry folks everywhere.
The Black Tapes
Do you believe in ghosts? Fictional journalist Alex Reagan sure does, and her podcast The Black Tapes gives a platform to those who have experienced some of the most riveting paranormal activity. Listen to Alex as she dives into her subjects' ghostly encounters and how they still (figuratively) haunt their lives today.
Alice Isn't Dead
A truck driver who long believed her wife to be dead suddenly learns that might not be the case. When she journeys through the backroads of America to find out what really happened, she finds herself traveling through ghost towns that are definitely not on any official map. This podcast goes into such great detail that you'll forget it's fiction.
Lore
You're going to think of people differently after hearing the dark, twisted, and true historical events from this award-winning podcast.
The Magnus Archives
Jonathan Sims just landed a new gig as head archivist of Magnus Institute. His first (self-proclaimed) order of business? Inspect the supernatural archives that lie beneath. The more he digs, the more he realizes something unsettling awaits discovery. This fictional story is as horrifying as it is dramatic.
Welcome to Night Vale
Welcome to Night Vale proves that horror can be scary and fun all at the same time. Set in a fictional desert town, these stories bring to life figures of the night with never-before-seen powers. Listeners are transformed into residents of Night Vale as they get a local radio station experience full of soundbites and news announcements.
The Last Podcast on the Left
If it's scary, the guys on this podcast have probably covered it. Yeah, we're talking werewolves, Jeffrey Dahmer, and any iconic haunting event you can think of.
Dr. Death
Dr. Death tells the horrifying (and true!!!) story of Christopher Duntsch, the self-proclaimed world's "best" neurosurgeon. It was believable, too, until his patients started experiencing some... complications. Once you’re done streaming the podcast, consider watching the Peacock series inspired by this gruesome story. (It stars Joshua Jackson!)
Tanis
Set in the same universe as the previously mentioned podcast, The Black Tapes, this story centers around a paranormal mystery that lies within the dark web and beyond. Fans of science and conspiracies will love this one.
My Favorite Murder
Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark took the world of true crime by storm when they started this podcast. The duo tackles the spookiest (and most gruesome) stories while adding their dark humor to the narrative.
Nightmare Magazine
Calling all dark fantasy enthusiasts! This podcast is filled with stories about zombies, haunted houses, and more.
Let's Not Meet
Not even our favorite hosts can relay the details of true crime like these survivors (who choose to relive their terrifying experiences by telling us their stories in their own words.)
The Evolution of Horror
Your favorite horror movies are dissected in this podcast hosted by Mike Muncer. Hear what the experts have to say about classic films and the diligence it took to make them.
Tales to Terrify
A group of passionate writers have woven the most frightening short stories you'll ever hear. This weekly horror fiction podcast will make you want to sleep with one eye open.
See You in Your Nightmares
Harper Hart can't seem to catch a break. After her sister's death, she starts to suffer from insomnia, which leads her to an overnight stay at a wellness center. The story takes a turn for the worse when an evil spirit is unleashed inside of her after she is hooked up to an AI machine. If you dare, listen to all 13 episodes of pure terror.
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