Creepy Podcasts You Need in Your Life
If you're like me, there's nothing quite like the thrill of being a little creeped out, especially when you're cozied up under a blanket with your earbuds in, letting your imagination run wild. Creepy podcasts are the perfect mix of storytelling, suspense, and spine-chilling goodness. Whether you're into true crime, ghost stories, or full-on fictional horror, there's a creepy podcast out there with your name on it. Here’s a curated list of must-listen eerie podcasts that'll scratch your itch for the strange and unsettling.
1. Lore
Aaron Mahnke’s "Lore" is a cult classic in the spooky podcast world. It dives deep into folklore, creepy historical events, and eerie legends that have a surprising amount of truth to them. The delivery is calm and measured, which somehow makes the stories even more chilling. With over 200 episodes and a few spin-offs, Lore is perfect for both newcomers and veteran horror junkies.
Why You'll Love It:
-
It’s like sitting around a campfire, but with better production quality.
-
Each episode is deeply researched and brilliantly written.
-
You might end up Googling "was that real?!" more than once.
2. The Magnus Archives
This one’s for the fiction fans out there. "The Magnus Archives" is a British horror anthology podcast that’s way more interconnected than it first appears. What starts as a collection of weird case files gradually unravels into a complex, sinister narrative involving eldritch horrors and a secretive paranormal institution. It’s brilliantly acted and deeply atmospheric.
Why You'll Love It:
-
It's like binging your favorite horror series, but with your imagination turned up to eleven.
-
Once you're in, you're hooked—just be ready for some emotional damage.
-
The sound design is next-level.
3. Scared to Death
If you like the idea of being told terrifying stories by a couple that clearly enjoys freaking each other out (and you), "Scared to Death" is for you. Hosted by comedian Dan Cummins and his wife Lynze, the podcast features both paranormal stories and personal listener-submitted tales.
Why You'll Love It:
-
It feels like hanging out with friends who just happen to be sharing nightmare fuel.
-
The mix of humor and horror balances out the scares.
-
Listener stories are a wild ride—some are honestly bone-chilling.
4. Let’s Not Meet
Real horror is sometimes scarier than anything fictional, and "Let’s Not Meet" thrives on that premise. Hosted by Andrew Tate, this podcast features true stories of creepy encounters, usually involving stalkers, strangers, or situations that escalate into pure terror. The stories are submitted by listeners, so they have that raw, unfiltered authenticity.
Why You'll Love It:
-
Makes you double-check if your doors are locked.
-
The storytelling is intimate and immersive.
-
It's perfect for fans of true crime with a spooky twist.
5. NoSleep Podcast
Inspired by the Reddit forum of the same name, "The NoSleep Podcast" is a treasure trove of horror fiction. These are creepy stories performed by voice actors, complete with eerie music and sound effects. The show has been going strong for over a decade, so there’s a massive back catalog to dive into.
Why You'll Love It:
-
The stories range from unsettling to downright terrifying.
-
Great for long drives, late nights, or anytime you want to scare yourself silly.
-
The production value is super impressive.
6. Old Gods of Appalachia
If you like your horror with a side of southern gothic and ancient evil, look no further. "Old Gods of Appalachia" is a fictional podcast that blends folklore, horror, and a heavy dose of atmosphere. It’s like stepping into an alternate version of the Appalachian Mountains where things are... not quite right.
Why You'll Love It:
-
The voice acting and writing are top-notch.
-
It feels like a mix of Lovecraft and Faulkner.
-
There's a haunting beauty in the storytelling.
7. Unexplained
Hosted by Richard MacLean Smith, "Unexplained" dives into strange and mysterious real-life events—things that science and logic haven’t quite been able to explain. It’s not overtly terrifying, but there’s a lingering eeriness in each episode that sticks with you.
Why You'll Love It:
-
Perfect for those who like mystery more than jump scares.
-
The narration is thoughtful and engaging.
-
It makes you question what we really know about the world.
8. Welcome to Night Vale
For something a bit more surreal (but still very weird), "Welcome to Night Vale" is like if "The Twilight Zone" had a baby with NPR. Set in a fictional desert town where every conspiracy theory is true, the podcast is funny, bizarre, and sometimes genuinely creepy.
Why You'll Love It:
-
It’s delightfully weird.
-
The world-building is insanely creative.
-
Great if you like your horror with a hefty dose of satire.
9. Dark House
"Dark House" is part haunted house tour, part true crime deep-dive. Hosts Ashley and Liz explore famous haunted homes and the dark stories behind them, from the infamous Lizzie Borden house to the Winchester Mystery House. It’s a perfect blend of historical intrigue and spooky storytelling.
Why You'll Love It:
-
You'll learn creepy facts you’ll be dying to share.
-
The storytelling is both educational and eerie.
-
Each episode feels like an audio ghost tour.
10. The Left Right Game
This one’s a limited series, but it’s a ride you don’t want to miss. "The Left Right Game" stars Tessa Thompson and tells the story of a journalist investigating a strange urban legend involving a driving game that turns... supernatural. It’s gripping, intense, and totally binge-worthy.
Why You'll Love It:
-
It's like an audio movie.
-
The plot twists will mess with your head.
-
You’ll finish it and immediately want to tell someone, “You have to listen to this.”
Final Thoughts
There’s something about creepy podcasts that hits differently. Maybe it’s the intimacy of a voice whispering eerie tales directly into your ears, or the suspense of not knowing what’s around the next narrative corner. Whether you’re a seasoned horror fan or just dipping your toes into the macabre, this list has something that’ll send shivers down your spine—in the best way possible.
So grab your headphones, dim the lights, and prepare to get deliciously creeped out. Happy listening, you brave soul.
