The 10 Best True Crime Podcasts About Serial Killers

True crime podcasts about serial killers combine investigative journalism, psychological analysis, and compelling narrative storytelling for audiences fascinated by criminal psychology and unsolved cases. These podcasts attract over 50 million monthly listeners worldwide, offering expert interviews, archival audio, and detailed examinations of infamous murderers. Whether you're a dedicated true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, these ten podcasts deliver the most thorough and engaging explorations of serial killer cases.

Top Serial Killer Podcast Selections

1. Last Podcast on the Left

Hosts Ben Kissel, Marcus Parks, and Henry Zebrowski deliver irreverent yet deeply researched multi-part series on notorious serial killers including Jeffrey Dahmer, Richard Ramirez, and Albert Fish. Launched in 2011, the podcast balances dark humor with extensive historical research, often spanning 3-5 episodes per killer. Their BTK series remains one of their most downloaded, featuring over 200 hours of research. The show has built a dedicated fanbase of over 8 million monthly listeners across Spotify and maintains detailed source lists for each episode.

2. Serial Killers (Parcast/Spotify)

This Parcast production provides psychological profiles and detailed timelines of history's most infamous murderers, releasing biweekly episodes since 2017. Hosts Vanessa Richardson and Greg Polcyn examine killers like Ted Bundy, Aileen Wuornos, and the Zodiac Killer through two-part episodes. Each installment features expert criminologist commentary and childhood-to-capture narratives. With over 300 episodes available exclusively on Spotify, the podcast utilizes dramatic recreations and forensic psychology perspectives. The series has covered killers from 15 countries across six continents.

3. Morbid: A True Crime Podcast

Autopsy technician Alaina Urquhart and hairdresser Ash Kelley combine professional death investigation experience with engaging storytelling about serial killers and mysterious deaths. Since 2018, they've covered cases from John Wayne Gacy to the Colonial Parkway Murders with episodes ranging 90-180 minutes. Their conversational style and thorough research have earned 35 million monthly downloads. The hosts frequently incorporate listener theories and updates, creating an interactive community. Their Wondery+ partnership offers ad-free listening and bonus episodes featuring lesser-known international cases.

4. Casefile True Crime

Australian host who remains anonymous delivers meticulously researched cases in a straightforward documentary style, focusing heavily on serial killer investigations since 2016. Notable episodes include deep dives into the Golden State Killer, Ivan Milat, and the Silk Road murders. The podcast's signature approach avoids sensationalism, presenting facts chronologically with victim-focused narratives. With over 250 episodes and 40 million downloads monthly, Casefile has become the gold standard for serious true crime content. International cases from Japan, Russia, and South America provide global perspectives rarely covered elsewhere.

5. Crime Junkie

Hosts Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat deliver tightly edited weekly episodes examining serial killers, missing persons, and cold cases with exceptional narrative pacing. Since 2017, the Indianapolis-based podcast has covered BTK, Israel Keyes, and the Long Island Serial Killer across episodes that consistently rank in Apple Podcasts' top ten. Their signature format includes detailed timelines, map references, and calls-to-action for unsolved cases. With over 500 million total downloads, Crime Junkie maintains a dedicated following through consistent Monday releases and comprehensive show notes with source documentation.

6. My Favorite Murder

Comedians Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark pioneered the comedy-meets-true crime format in 2016, discussing serial killers including Ed Kemper, Dennis Rader, and H.H. Holmes. Episodes blend personal storytelling with well-researched case presentations, creating an accessible entry point for new true crime listeners. The podcast has generated over 400 episodes and spawned a live touring show, book deal, and dedicated fan network called Murderinos. Their monthly listener count exceeds 30 million, and the show maintains partnerships with victim advocacy organizations to balance entertainment with sensitivity.

7. RedHanded

British hosts Suruthi Bala and Hannah Maguire deliver darkly comic yet thoroughly researched episodes covering international serial killers, cults, and conspiracy theories since 2017. Their coverage includes lesser-known cases like Peter Tobin, Joanna Dennehy, and historic Victorian-era murderers alongside American cases. Episodes average 75 minutes with detailed psychological analysis and sociological context. The podcast has built substantial UK and European followings with 15 million monthly downloads. Their Patreon offers bonus episodes and early access, while maintaining free weekly content covering both historical and contemporary cases.

8. True Crime Garage

Hosts Nic and The Captain discuss serial killer cases and mysterious disappearances while drinking craft beer in a garage setting since 2015. Their two-part episode format allows comprehensive coverage of killers like Gary Ridgway, Samuel Little, and the Doodler. With over 500 episodes, the podcast balances conversational discussion with listener call-ins and updates on developing cases. The show generates 12 million monthly downloads and maintains active social media engagement. Their approach includes revisiting cases with new evidence and featuring criminology experts for specialized insights into behavioral patterns.

9. Sword and Scale

Host Mike Boudet presents raw, unfiltered true crime content incorporating actual 911 calls, police interrogations, and court recordings related to serial killers and violent crimes. Since 2013, the podcast has produced over 200 episodes featuring cases like Jodi Arias, Chris Watts, and multiple serial killer investigations. Episodes often exceed two hours, providing exhaustive detail through primary source audio. Available across all major platforms with premium content on Patreon, Sword and Scale has generated controversy for its unflinching approach but maintains millions of dedicated listeners seeking unvarnished case presentations.

10. Female Criminals (Parcast/Spotify)

This Spotify exclusive launched in 2018 focuses specifically on female serial killers, poisoners, and violent offenders often overlooked in true crime media. Hosts examine Aileen Wuornos, Dorothea Puente, Elizabeth Báthory, and dozens of lesser-known cases across 150+ episodes. Each two-part series explores psychological motivations, societal factors, and gender dynamics in criminal behavior. The podcast fills a significant gap in serial killer content by dedicating entire seasons to women who kill. Episodes incorporate forensic psychology and criminology research, averaging 35-45 minutes with new releases every Tuesday.

Why These Podcasts Stand Out

These ten podcasts represent the best serial killer content available through their combination of rigorous research, compelling presentation, and respectful treatment of victims. They collectively offer over 2,500 episodes spanning cases from the 1800s to present day, providing listeners with comprehensive perspectives on criminal psychology, investigative techniques, and forensic science. Whether you prefer documentary-style narration or conversational analysis, these shows deliver professional-quality content that educates while it engages, making complex criminal cases accessible to all audiences interested in understanding the darkest aspects of human behavior.