In an age where information is abundant but truth is often elusive, investigative journalism podcasts have become our guiding beacons. These podcasts dive deep into the heart of issues, unveil the hidden facts, and expose the untold stories. If you’re a fan of thought-provoking and truth-seeking content, then you’re in the right place. We’ve scoured Spotify to bring you the Top 10 Investigative Journalism Podcasts that you won’t want to miss.
The Tip Off
“The Tip Off” is your exclusive ticket behind the scenes of remarkable investigative journalism stories from recent years. With each episode, we embark on a journey into the heart of groundbreaking investigative scoops, allowing you to hear directly from the dedicated journalists who brought these stories to light. You’ll gain insight into the intricate process, from following leads to navigating dead-ends and, of course, uncovering the invaluable tip-offs. Be prepared for adrenaline-pumping car chases, tense confrontations behind slammed doors, revelations about terrorist cells, secretive meetings in dimly lit bars and cafes, and the persistent wrangling with despotic regimes. If you’re intrigued by the intricate and thrilling detective work that fuels outstanding investigative journalism, “The Tip Off” is the podcast you’ve been searching for.
In “The Tip Off,” you’ll be privy to the untold stories that make investigative journalism so exhilarating. With each episode, you’ll dive into the captivating world of uncovering hidden truths and exposing those who thought they could remain in the shadows. This podcast is a treasure trove of intrigue, suspense, and the relentless pursuit of justice. So, if you’re curious about the exciting and complex process that underpins exceptional investigative journalism, “The Tip Off” is the podcast that promises to keep you hooked from the very first episode.
Background Briefing – The Whistleblowers
“Background Briefing – The Whistleblowers” is a compelling 6-part podcast series presented by Adele Ferguson and the Background Briefing team. This investigative journey unveils the untold stories of everyday Australians who played pivotal roles in exposing some of the most significant and morally questionable scandals in Australia. Each episode delves deep into the challenges and dilemmas faced by whistleblowers when they decide to step forward and reveal institutional fraud and malpractice. This gripping series prompts thought-provoking questions: What drives someone to blow the whistle? Is the pursuit of truth worth the risks involved? It’s a captivating exploration of the moral courage that fuels whistleblowers and the societal impact their actions have.
“Background Briefing” stands as a beacon of daring narrative journalism, dedicated to unearthing Australian investigations that make a real impact. Their team of award-winning reporters meticulously uncovers the concealed stories at the core of Australia’s most pressing issues. As an audience, you’ll be drawn into these hidden narratives, gaining a profound understanding of the country’s most significant scandals, all while appreciating the courage and determination of the individuals who expose them. “Background Briefing – The Whistleblowers” is a must-listen for those who seek a deeper understanding of the ethical battles and social change brought about by ordinary Australians who choose to speak out.
The Sharyl Attkisson Podcast
“The Sharyl Attkisson Podcast” is your gateway to in-depth, nonpartisan investigative journalism. Hosted by Sharyl Attkisson, a distinguished five-time Emmy Award winner and recipient of the prestigious Edward R. Murrow award for investigative reporting, this podcast promises an engaging journey into the world of fact-based reporting. As a New York Times bestselling author with titles like “The Smear,” “Stonewalled,” and “Slanted” to her name, Attkisson is a recognized authority in the field. She also serves as the managing editor of “Full Measure with Sharyl Attkisson,” a prominent national TV news program airing on Sunday mornings. With her podcasts and Tedx talks amassing millions of views, Sharyl Attkisson invites you to embark on a quest for knowledge, encouraging you to conduct your research, form your own opinions, and think independently.
S-Town
“S-Town,” a riveting podcast hosted by Brian Reed from Serial Productions, a New York Times company, takes listeners on a compelling journey into the heart of rural Alabama. The story unfolds as John, a man deeply dissatisfied with his hometown, seeks Brian’s investigative prowess to uncover a troubling mystery. It all begins with the rumors of a wealthy family’s son boasting about getting away with murder. However, as Brian delves deeper into the case, a startling turn of events leads to a web of secrets, a relentless pursuit of hidden treasures, and a profound exploration of the enigmatic life of one man. “S-Town” is a gripping narrative that offers a thought-provoking blend of true crime, human drama, and an intimate portrait of a place often overlooked.
I’m Not A Monster
“I’m Not A Monster” is a multi award-winning podcast series that delves deep into the divisive and intriguing story of Shamima Begum. The narrative begins in 2015 when three London school girls mysteriously disappeared, capturing the world’s attention. Investigative journalist Josh Baker was on the scene at a local mosque, capturing the families’ pleas for help as their daughters embarked on a journey to join the Islamic State group in Syria. Over the years, their fate remained shrouded in mystery, with occasional and sometimes conflicting reports surfacing about their activities within the terror group. Only one of the girls, Shamima Begum, eventually resurfaced. This new podcast series takes listeners on an immersive journey, following Josh’s relentless pursuit of the truth. From the streets of Bethnal Green in East London to the depths of formerly ISIS-controlled Syria, he challenges Shamima Begum’s account and seeks to uncover the real story behind one of the most talked-about events of our time.
The first season of “I’m Not A Monster” introduced listeners to Sam Sally, an American mother who left her comfortable life to join the heart of the Islamic State group’s caliphate with her family. Her husband’s involvement as an IS sniper and her 10-year-old son’s appearance in a notorious propaganda video, threatening President Trump, created a gripping and award-winning narrative. With 11 awards in various international program competitions, including the Rose d’Or for Best Audio Series, three Golds, and the Grand Jury Prize at the New York Festivals Radio Awards, this podcast is a top-ranked choice for those seeking engaging and thought-provoking content.
Human Resources
Dive into a thought-provoking exploration of Britain’s historical connection to the transatlantic slave trade with the “Human Resources” podcast. Hosted by journalist Moya Lothian-McLean, a descendant of both Black African Slaves and White slave owners or overseers, this podcast offers a unique perspective. It goes far beyond its name, delving deep into the nation’s legacy, from the roots of Britain’s first slave trader, Sir John Hawkins, to the contemporary efforts in cities like Liverpool to confront their history with slavery. “Human Resources” is not your typical business-related podcast; it’s an eye-opening and focused investigation into an often under-discussed aspect of British history. With insights from experts and thorough research, this podcast sheds light on a topic that remains crucial in understanding the UK’s past and its implications today. Explore the untold stories and uncover the truth about Britain’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade with “Human Resources.”
The Dropout
Dive into the gripping narrative of ambition and deception with “The Dropout” podcast. Hosted by ABC News reporter Rebecca Jarvis, this series meticulously unravels the astounding tale of Elizabeth Holmes, the once-celebrated founder of Theranos, whose meteoric rise in Silicon Valley ended in infamy. Explore the intricacies of Holmes’ ambitious venture and the shocking deceit that led to one of the most notorious scandals in tech history. Through in-depth interviews and exhaustive investigations, “The Dropout” delves into the dark side of innovation, revealing the intricate web of money, romance, and tragedy that surrounded Holmes’ downfall.
In “The Dropout” podcast, ABC News chief business, technology, and economics correspondent Rebecca Jarvis, along with producers Taylor Dunn and Victoria Thompson, guide listeners through a multi-year investigation into the Theranos saga. Gain exclusive insights through interviews with former employees, investors, and patients, providing a unique perspective on this gripping tale of ambition gone awry. Delve into the courtroom drama, as 12 jurors decide the fate of Elizabeth Holmes, the woman once hailed as “the next Steve Jobs.” With never-before-aired deposition testimony and a behind-the-scenes look at the trial, this podcast brings you the untold story of how Holmes’ innovative vision turned into a cautionary tale for the ages.
WeCrashed
In the spotlight of the latest ranked podcasts is “WeCrashed: The Director’s Cut,” a captivating six-part series that delves deep into the captivating yet tumultuous journey of WeWork. As its charismatic CEO, Adam Neumann, envisioned the company reaching incredible heights, it was valued at a staggering $47 billion, poised for a game-changing IPO. Hosted by David Brown, known for his successful podcast “Business Wars,” this revamped series is a comprehensive exploration, offering fresh interviews and new revelations about WeWork’s rollercoaster ride.
This narrative of hope, hubris, substantial investments, and colossal missteps showcases how far individuals are willing to go in pursuit of “unicorns.” If you’ve been enthralled by gripping rise-and-fall narratives like “Who The Hell Is Hamish?” and “The Missing Cryptoqueen,” then “WeCrashed: The Rise And Fall Of WeWork” is a must-listen. Follow the trajectory of WeWork from a single groundbreaking idea to a multi-million dollar corporation, and uncover the unraveling of events that followed. The podcast critically questions whether Adam Neumann’s prophet-like vision aligned with the reality of WeWork, making it a must-listen for those who crave insightful and thought-provoking storytelling. Don’t miss the chance to explore this remarkable journey on AppleTV+ and discover the untold stories behind WeWork’s meteoric rise and subsequent fall.
Casefile
Delve into the chilling world of true crime with the Casefile True Crime Podcast, an Australian sensation that has been enthralling audiences since its inception in January 2016. This spine-tingling podcast, hosted by an enigmatic Australian figure who remains anonymous, unveils the grim and often unsettling stories behind solved and unsolved criminal cases. Released on Sundays over three consecutive weeks, with a brief hiatus on the fourth week, Casefile brings you the captivating narratives of well-known murders and serial crimes, including the infamous case of Britain’s Becky Watts.
Adding an extra layer of intrigue, the identity of the show’s host is shrouded in mystery, making Casefile not only a source of fascinating and bone-chilling stories but also a platform that keeps you guessing about the person behind the microphone. If you’re a true crime enthusiast seeking engrossing tales of real-life mysteries, Casefile is a must-listen podcast that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Join us as we uncover the darkest secrets and explore the enigma of a host hidden in the shadow
Criminal
“Criminal” is a pioneering podcast hosted by Phoebe Judge and is proudly part of the Vox Media Podcast Network. It is a unique show that delves into the lives of those who’ve committed wrongful acts, those who’ve been victims of such actions, or individuals caught somewhere in between. While the premise may appear simple, the podcast’s strength lies in its meticulous exploration of the highlighted cases, leaving no detail unturned. The series’ commitment to investigative rigor ensures that each episode provides fresh insights, making it a compelling choice for those craving true crime narratives from a different perspective. With “Criminal,” you’re guaranteed to discover something new and gain a critical outlook on the world of crime and justice. Join Phoebe Judge on a captivating journey into the realm of human behavior and the hidden stories that often go unnoticed.
Conclusion
Investigative journalism podcasts on Spotify offer a unique and engaging way to explore the world’s hidden truths, deep-seated mysteries, and unsolved crimes. From “Serial” to “The Shrink Next Door,” these top 10 podcasts take you on an exhilarating journey through the depths of human behavior, the justice system, and corporate scandals. Tune in to any of these podcasts, and you’ll find yourself on a captivating and often unsettling quest for the truth.
If you are interested in listening to a variety of podcasts, you may want to check out the best podcasts in various genres such as cricket, true crime, horror, sci-fi, motivational, spiritual, food, parenting, entrepreneurship, for kids, World War II, home automation, learning new languages, starting a podcast, history, finance, cryptocurrency, football, mental health, and wildlife
FAQs
- What is investigative journalism, and why are these podcasts important?
- Investigative journalism involves in-depth research and reporting to uncover hidden truths and expose wrongdoing. These podcasts are essential because they shed light on important issues, question authority, and hold individuals and institutions accountable.
- Where can I listen to these podcasts?
- You can listen to these investigative journalism podcasts on Spotify, one of the world’s leading streaming platforms for podcasts and music.
- Are these podcasts free to listen to?
- Yes, all the podcasts listed are available for free on Spotify, though some may offer premium content or ad-free listening options.
- Do I need a premium Spotify subscription to access these podcasts?
- No, you can access these podcasts with a free Spotify account. However, a premium subscription may offer additional features, such as offline listening and an ad-free experience.
- Are these podcasts suitable for all ages?
- The content and themes of these podcasts may vary, but many are intended for mature audiences due to their focus on crime, politics, and complex issues. It’s advisable to check each podcast’s description and ratings for suitability.
- How often are new episodes released for these podcasts?
- The release schedules vary by podcast. Some may release episodes weekly, while others might have a more irregular schedule. You can stay updated by following the podcasts on Spotify.
- Can I download episodes for offline listening?
- Yes, if you have a Spotify premium subscription, you can download episodes for offline listening. This is a handy feature for enjoying content without an internet connection.
- Are there transcripts available for these podcasts?
- Some podcasts may offer transcripts or show notes on their official websites or in the Spotify app. Check the podcast’s website or Spotify for additional resources.
- Is there a way to provide feedback or suggestions to the podcast hosts?
- Many podcast hosts are active on social media or have official websites where you can provide feedback, suggest topics, or engage with the podcasting community.
- How can I explore more investigative journalism podcasts beyond this list?
- Spotify has a vast collection of podcasts, and you can discover more by searching for keywords like “investigative journalism,” “true crime,” or other relevant terms. Additionally, you can explore Spotify’s curated podcast playlists and recommendations based on your interests.
About Author
The Podcasting Research Team is a dynamic and passionate group of young researchers who are dedicated to exploring the world of podcasting. Whether you’re a podcast creator, a marketer, or simply a curious listener, the work of The Podcasting Research Team can provide valuable insights into the trends and best practices in the podcasting world.
