Though horror movies are a huge part of my love of the genre, audio alone can be just as terrifying. In fact, many scary movies only work BECAUSE of the audio, so it’s an imperative aspect of the genre. If you just can’t get enough horror in your life, and you want to be able to experience terror even while multi-tasking or while you’re away from screens, horror podcasts may scratch that itch for you.
There are literally hundreds of horror podcasts on Spotify, and it would take you eons to sift through them all to find the good ones. That’s where Nonstop Horror comes in.
Now, I’ll admit, I also don’t have the time to sort through every single horror podcast that exists. However, over the years I’ve found some hidden gems and checked out the most popular podcasts, so I know which ones are worth diving into, and which ones aren’t.
I’ve used my personal experience as well as some recent research to find the best horror podcasts you can find on Spotify. From terrifying fictional stories to true crime retellings, there’s a little bit of something for everyone within this list. If I happen to skip over your favorite podcast and you think fellow horror fans would benefit from a listen, leave a comment at the bottom.
I’m not guaranteeing these podcasts will make you soil yourself, but I bet you’ll get a goosebump or two throughout your journey of listening.
Spotify features five million podcast titles, making it the perfect place for you to get your horror audio fix. Note that this list isn’t just going to be a mundane recounting of the most popular podcasts on the platform. If you simply want to see which Spotify podcasts are most popular, use this tool. If you want a firsthand account of the best horror podcasts on Spotify, keep reading this post.
Now, here are the best horror podcasts that Spotify has to offer.
Table of Contents
What Criteria Are Used To Determine The ‘Best’?
When putting together this list of best horror podcasts on spotify, there were a few qualifications I considered. One was the overall rating the podcast currently had on Spotify (5-star rating system). Another factor was my personal experience and enjoyment of each podcast. I also considered the Spotify Podcast charts when choosing a few podcasts I was unfamiliar with. I also tried to leave out podcasts that are basically the same structure but with different hosts. I hate redundancy, and I’m sure you do too.
I believe that to make a good horror podcast you need to be knowledgeable of the material, the love of the genre must be clearly present in the host’s delivery. I think that just like in our most beloved horror films, a good amount of comedic relief will also catapult a podcast’s ratings in my eyes.
Being a student of audio and lover of sound design/music, I thoroughly enjoy podcasts that take the time to add little bits and pieces to the audio, like sound effects and original music, to add to the atmosphere of the pod.
Because of all of the qualifications mentioned above, this list is not necessarily a ‘worst-to-best’ type of list, merely a showcasing of the strengths and weaknesses of the top horror podcasts I found on Spotify, so that you can be better informed about what to feed your ears next.
Horror Weekly | Best Horror Podcasts On Spotify
Current Rating: 4.9(184 Ratings)
During my research of horror podcasts on Spotify, I found this gem! The host of this pod has a long history with horror, and it shows with his long list of movies he’s seen and the facts he provides during the episodes.
He’s got a great voice made for a podcast too! One thing I really enjoy about this podcast is he doesn’t use over-the-top banter or antics like some of the other podcasts on this list, and the time flies by as you’re listening. Feels like you’re listening to a horror sensai give you everything you need to know to master the horror genre.
“Horror Weekly” takes input from the fans, with an option to send voice messages as well. The podcast is still consistent with its uploads, with new episodes being posted every Thursday. This is a great place to start if you’re looking for horror podcasts on Spotify.
You can click here to listen to Horror Weekly.
Frightday
Current Rating: 4.6(92 Ratings)
If you haven’t heard of Frightday, you’re in for a treat! The hosts cover many topics, not just movies, and they’ll have the occasional guest on who is usually an expert on the subject matter they’re discussing in the episode.
One drawback may be the fact that there is A LOT of banter before they get to the main topic. However, their banter is not annoying like some of the other pods on this list. For the most part, it feels like you’re just listening to a conversation amongst friends.
You can click here to listen to Frightday
Horror 101 Podcast
Current Rating: 4.5(31 Ratings)
“Horror 101” is a podcast where a bunch of buddies get together and chat about horror movies. They pick a movie, dive into it, and then rate it, all while giving us listeners some neat clips from the movie to set the scene.
The audio is not very produced. It sounds more like you’re in the same room just hanging out with them, kicking back, and joining in on their movie talk. It’s pretty laid-back and genuine, kind of like you’re part of their movie night and jumping in on the conversation. Whether you’re all about horror movies or just curious, listening to these guys is like getting the inside scoop from your movie-loving friends.
You can click here to listen to the Horror 101 Podcast
Radio Rental
Current Rating: 4.9(11k ratings)
If you checked my personal podcast stats over the past few years, Radio Rental would probably top the list. This is a unique and captivating horror podcast that can be found on Spotify.
The structure of Radio Rental is beloved actor Rainn Wilson playing a character who goes by the name of Terry Carnation. Terry runs a video rental shop (hence the podcast title) and provides the comedic relief to each episode. In each episode, we’re presented true stories in the form of video tapes that Terry is playing for us as customers in his shop.
To add to the greatness of this podcast, each story is told by the people who experienced them. I’ll admit, sometimes it’s hard to tell if people are telling the truth or embellishing their stories, but that’s just once in a blue moon.
There are some episodes here that are truly terrifying.
You can click here to listen to Radio Rental
Where to start: The beginning … or jump to Episode 24.
NoSleep Podcast
Current Rating: 4.8(9.8k ratings)
Any horror fan is probably familiar with the next horror podcast on our list. Originally started as a subreddit, NoSleep has become a legend in the horror audio realm. The podcast just recently wrapped up its 20th season! Yes, you read that right – season 20.
This isn’t your run-of-the-mill podcast; it’s an immersive experience, boasting original horror stories that will keep you up at night (in the best way possible). This podcast has evolved into a multi-award-winning behemoth, known for its exceptional production value that turns each episode into a cinematic audio experience.
Whether you’re a horror podcast veteran or just dipping your toes into the genre, a quick Google search for the best episodes of “The NoSleep Podcast” will guide you to some of the most riveting horror tales you’ve ever heard.
Trust me, dive into this horror podcast and prepare to be captivated by stories that blur the lines between reality and the stuff of nightmares.
You can click here to listen to The NoSleep Podcast
Where to start: S01E10, S01E18, S2E25
Creepy: A Horror Podcast
Current Rating: 4.7(3.2k ratings)
“Creepy: A Horror Podcast” is where urban legends and creepypastas come to life through the power of storytelling. This podcast, brought to you by creator Jon Grilz, provides an immersive audio journey that makes you feel like you’re right in the heart of each chilling tale.
Most episodes jump right into the story, so you don’t have to fast forward through pointless banter. The pod has a team of narrators, so you get a variety of voices, each bringing a unique flavor and intensity to the stories, ensuring that no two episodes feel the same.
The creators spend a lot of time on the sound design and production, creating an immersive atmosphere. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of urban legends or new to the spine-tingling world of creepypastas, this podcast has something to make your skin crawl and your pulse quicken.
You can click here to listen to Creepy: A Horror Podcast
Lore
Current Rating: 4.9(10k ratings)
Lore will probably sound pretty similar to you as a horror fan. This is a horror anthology, where host/creator Aaron Mahnke talks about mysterious creatures, tragic events, and unusual places that fill the pages of history.
The podcast became so popular that it even got a tv show! The tv show has since been canceled, but the podcast lives on. Mahnke’s voice lends to a more interesting and informative experience, rather than a scary or terrifying one.
It feels like you’re being fed spooky stories with your friend while sitting around a campfire.
You can click here to listen to Lore
Click here to watch the tv show
Where to Start: Episode 93 – “A Place To Lay Your Head” or Episode 8 – “The Castle”
Dead Meat Podcast
Current Rating: 4.9(8.8k ratings)
Dead Meat is probably your go-to Youtube channel for all things horror, but did you know there’s a podcast as well? The pod complements the Youtube channel very well, and it’s not necessarily just a repeat of what you’ll get on YT.
In the podcast, James and Chelsea take a stab at many horror topics, such as reviewing their favorite horror movies, film history, and more. If you enjoy the on-screen enthusiasm and banter between the married couple, the podcast will be an enjoyable listen.
You can click here to listen to the Dead Meat Podcast
Snap Judgment Presents: Spooked
Current rating: 4.8(3.8k ratings)
Spooked is another podcast where you can listen to true-life supernatural stories told firsthand by people who experienced them. If this sounds familiar, that’s because it is very similar to Radio Rental but without Rainn Wilson.
Unlike “Radio Rental,” which intertwines horror with Rainn Wilson’s comedic flair, this podcast adopts a more serious tone, stripping away the layers of humor to focus purely on the eerie and the otherworldly.
So, whether you think ghosts are real or not, these stories are told in such a real and serious way that they make you wonder if there’s more to the world than we can see.
You can click here to listen to Spooked
Where to Start: The beginning OR The Iron Gate
The Magnus Archives
Current Rating: 5(37.7k ratings)
The Magnus Archives is clearly a fan favorite, as they’ve managed to maintain a 5-star rating on Spotify with over 37.7 THOUSAND reviews. Unheard of. After getting past my skepticism I gave the podcast a listen. From episode 1, I was hooked.
In this weekly horror fiction podcast, we join Jonathan Sims as he explores the archive of The Magnus Institute, an organization dedicated to researching the esoteric and the weird. Most episodes are standalone horror stories, but they sometimes refer back to each other as well.
Hidden in the background of the podcast is also an overarching narrative with intertwining plotlines, so it’s a good decision to try and listen through most episodes in order.
Throughout my research, I’ve found that fans of the show believe the most recent seasons have dropped off in quality, so it’s probably best to start at the very beginning.
This podcast may require a bit more attentiveness if you want to get the full experience and follow along with the plotlines, so it may not be the best horror podcast on spotify for multi-taskers.
You can click here to listen to The Magnus Archives
Bloody Disgusting Network
Current Rating: 4.8(87 ratings)
Bloody Disgusting is a huge multi-media company revolving around the horror genre, and they’re deeply engraved into the culture. Did you know they produced the V/H/S films?
They also have a podcast network, with two podcasts featuring the Bloody Disgusting name, The Bloody Disgusting Podcast and The Boo Crew. The BD Podcast is more structured around movie reviews and discussions around horror topics, while The Boo Crew is more of an interview style kind of podcast, featuring guests spanning all areas of the horror genre.
The Boo Crew feels more like a radio variety show, with amped up personalities and banter that feels unorganized at times. Listen to the main Bloody Disgusting Podcast for a more toned down, focused experience.
The network has a great roster of shows for all horror enthusiasts to explore. Check out other podcasts that are part of the network here.
You can click here to listen to The Bloody Disgusting Podcast
You can click here to listen to The Boo Crew
Chilling Tales for Dark Nights
Current Rating: 4.5(1.2k ratings)
“Chilling Tales for Dark Nights” is a horror podcast on spotify that’s a treasure trove of fictional horror stories crafted by exceptionally talented authors. The podcast features an array of voice talents, each bringing their unique flair to the storytelling, ensuring that no two tales feel the same.
Coupled with strategic use of sound effects and music, the atmosphere is set to immerse you completely in each chilling narrative. Since its inception in 2016, the podcast has amassed a substantial library of episodes, so you’ll have an extensive collection of dark tales to explore. Each episode is narrated with a passion that’s sure to evoke the full spectrum of your fears.
You can click here to listen to Chilling Tales
Old Gods of Appalachia
Current Rating: 4.9(6.8k ratings)
For horror fans seeking an eldritch horror fiction anthology podcast, Old Gods of Appalachia should be your first stop. OGOA is where the familiar terrain of Appalachia is twisted into a realm of unfathomable dread. This isn’t just any horror story; it’s an alternate reality where the mountainous expanse of eastern states harbors dark secrets, with city names and historical events eerily altered.
The pod is now in its fourth season, and the narrator possesses a voice that feels like it was made for horror, perfectly complemented by southern gothic music that sets a chilling atmosphere. Imagine the tv show, “Justified”, meets horror, except unfortunately with less Timothy Olyphant.
Just reading the words used to describe the podcast is enough to entice anyone to hit play. “Imagine a twisted version of Appalachia, where ancient, sinister mountains weren’t meant for human habitation. long before folks called these hills home, unimaginable beings of darkness were trapped beneath them, waiting in the shadows. Over time, as the mountains’ confinements weakened, these malevolent entities began to whisper and beckon the desperate and daring.”
The podcast tells tales of these monsters and the people who find them, making for some seriously eerie listening.
For the full, spine-tingling effect, it’s best to start from the very beginning and immerse yourself in the haunting narrative that unfolds across each season.
You can click here to listen to Old Gods Of Appalachia
The Black Tapes
Current Rating: 4.5(2.8k ratings)
The Black Tapes is a serialized docudrama that takes you deep into a journalist’s relentless pursuit of truth, set against the backdrop of her subject’s enigmatic past and the haunting specters that linger around them. Through the lens of Alex Reagan, the journalist and podcast host, listeners are drawn into a world that blurs the lines between reality and fiction, making for a very meta experience.
The first season is a standout, offering a compelling narrative that hooks you right from the start, but be warned—the subsequent seasons see a noticeable dip in quality, leaving some fans longing for the initial brilliance.
The drama doesn’t end with the plot twists, as the show itself became the center of controversy surrounding its finale. Episode 306 was initially presented as the end of the podcast, only for the creators to later declare it a ‘mid-season finale,’ hinting at more episodes to come.
However, those additional episodes never materialized, leaving listeners in a lurch and sparking debates within the podcast’s community. Despite this, starting from the beginning is essential to fully grasp the intricate storytelling and character development that made the first season so captivating. Dive in from the start and experience the intrigue, but manage your expectations for the journey ahead.
You can click here to listen to The Black Tapes
My Favorite Murder
Current Rating: 4.7(51.9k ratings)
It’s no question that My Favorite Murder is at the top of the horror podcast charts. The show is hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, two comedians who’ve carved out a unique niche in the true crime podcasting scene. Their show isn’t your typical eerie, spine-chilling true crime podcast; instead, it’s laced with a light-hearted touch that only a duo of comedians could bring.
They delve into the dark world of murders and serial killers, sharing compelling true crimes, as well as hometown stories from a close-knit circle of friends and listeners. While it’s not the kind of podcast that’ll have you checking the locks on your doors, its popularity is undeniable.
The back-and-forth banter between Karen and Georgia is a major draw for many listeners, though I’ll be honest—it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. Personally, I find moments of their exchange, including their well-known sign-off, “Stay Sexy And Don’t Get Murdered,” a bit on the cringy side. Yet, it’s this very authenticity and unapologetic approach that has garnered them a massive following.
If you’re into true crime with a twist of humor and don’t mind a bit of quirkiness, this might just be the podcast for you. Just be prepared for a different kind of true crime experience, one that might just make you laugh and wince in equal measure.
You can click here to listen to My Favorite Murder
Borrasca
Current Rating: 4.9(4.7k ratings)
Borrasca is a podcast that’s more than just a casual listen—it’s a gripping, scripted saga spread across two captivating seasons. Each episode, clocking in at around 40 minutes, plunges you into a meticulously crafted narrative. The story revolves around Sam Walker, portrayed by Cole Sprouse, who dives into the eerie depths of Drisking, Missouri, to unravel the disappearance of his sister.
The first season peels back layer after layer of the town’s dark secrets and mysteries, with Sprouse delivering an intensely compelling performance that anchors the entire experience.
Fun fact, the story first saw the light of day on the r/nosleep subreddit, penned by Rebecca Klingel, better known by her pseudonym C.K. Walker. What started as a four-part short story back in 2015 exploded in popularity, catching the attention of heavyweights in the horror genre.
Klingel’s viral success catapulted her to new heights, landing her a spot on Mike Flanagan’s writing team for acclaimed Netflix series like “The Haunting of Hill House” and “The Haunting of Bly Manor.”
Unless you’re a fan of random chaos, start from the beginning. The layers of storytelling, the depth of character development, and the intricate weaving of suspense and mystery demand your full attention from episode one. Prepare for a journey that’s as intense as it is immersive, one that’s sure to keep you hooked till the very end.
You can click here to listen to Borrasca
MrBallen Podcast
Current Rating: 4.9(83.5k ratings)
Within the Wondery Podcast network, there’s this gem that’s not just any regular podcast—it’s a phenomenon that’s seen a meteoric rise in popularity. Thanks to the robust backing of the network, this show boasts frequent uploads, capturing the attention of listeners far and wide, to the extent that Amazon scooped it up as an exclusuve. Since then it has become accessible across all major platforms.
But that’s not all; the host has also carved out a significant presence on YouTube, winning over viewers with a channel that’s just as popular as the podcast itself. It’s easy to binge MrBallen content because of the host’s on-screen presence, which boasts of witty banter and jokes along with his description of the mysterious and macabre topics he covers. The host asks, “Are you a fan of the strange, dark, and mysterious, delivered in story format?” captivating audiences with a style that’s both engaging and informative.
One thing to note, especially if you subscribe to the Youtube channel and the podcast, MrBallen repurposes audio from old YouTube videos, giving new life to content that fans might have missed. It’s a smart move, ensuring that no good story goes unheard, whether you’re tuning in via earbuds or watching on a screen.
You can click here to listen to MrBallen
Morbid Podcast
Current Rating: 4.7(101k ratings)
The Morbid Podcast is another show from the folks over at Wondery. I hate to be ‘that guy’ but right off the bat I want to mention that they’ll nudge you toward joining Wondery Plus, so brace yourself for that pitch.
Now, about the show—it’s hosted by an unlikely duo: an autopsy technician and a hairstylist. Their banter is the heart of the podcast, giving off a vibe that’s pretty reminiscent of ‘Two Girls, One Ghost’—you know, that conversational, chatty style that feels like you’re just hanging out with friends. They’re all about true crime and creepy history, spicing it up with listener stories to keep things fresh. But here’s the thing: there’s a ton of chat. I mean, a lot.
Sometimes it feels like the stories are just side notes in their lively conversations. If you’re into that mainstream, easy-listening vibe with a sprinkle of the macabre, this might be your jam. Just be ready to sift through quite a bit of banter to get to the meat of the matter.
You can click here to listen to the Morbid Podcast
Where to Start: E85, Dennis Rader, “BTK”, 3 part series or Episode 52, a mini-episode about missing Tourists in Panama.
Serial Killers
Current Rating: 4.8(40.1k ratings)
True crime fans, this is the podcast for you. Serial Killers is an official Spotify Studios podcast, and it doesn’t hold back—it’s where shit gets real.
Right out the gate, they hit you with disclaimers and trigger warnings, so you know they’re about to delve into some seriously heavy stuff, mainly focusing on serial killers. It’s like getting a rare, chilling window into the minds and methods of the most sadistic murderers out there. Whether you’re a true crime aficionado, a ‘true crime girlie’, or a dude who’s into the gritty details, this one’s a magnet for anyone who’s fascinated by the macabre.
Now, here’s something that really gets me: this podcast has been churning out content for seven years. Seven years! With an archive boasting 500 episodes mentioned in their trailer, it makes you wonder—were these all lined up from the start, or is the world just that full of twisted tales?
Either way, it’s both mind-boggling and downright concerning that there’s an endless stream of such dark stories to keep this show going strong.
You can click here to listen to Serial Killers
Two Girls One Ghost
Current Rating: 4.8(5.6k reviews)
To round out our list of the best horror podcasts on Spotify, we have Two Girls One Ghost. Two Girls One Ghost (yes, the 13-year old in me laughs at the title every time I say it) is a podcast I ran into while doing research for this post.
It’s like sitting in on a chat between two women who are all about diving deep into real ghost stories and odd happenings. The pod consists of A LOT of banter between the two before they get into the main discussions. Personally, their personalities are a bit too bubbly for my liking when it comes to horror podcasts, but for some it may be great.
There’s definitely more of a light-hearted vibe to this horror podcast, so if you enjoy horror but want a break from the dread and fright, this might be right up your alley. It’s like being the silent buddy in their group, listening in while they swap tales of the supernatural.
You can click here to listen to Two Girls One Ghost
How To Enjoy Horror Podcasts To Their Fullest
After you’ve found the perfect horror podcast on Spotify to check out, you’re going to want to consider your listening experience. Whether you prefer to listen in your car on your commute to work, while you’re at the gym, or cozied up with your favorite horror blanket at home, here are some tips to elevate your horror podcast listening experience.
Best Apps For Listening To Horror Podcasts
I know this whole blog post is about finding the best horror podcasts on Spotify, but I’m not going to limit you on where you can listen to them. Do whatever you want to do, my horror-loving friend. Below are a few alternatives to Spotify if you want to go elsewhere for your horror podcast fix.
Best Headphones For Listening To Horror Podcasts
For the on-the-go listener, your best best will probably be some wireless ear buds, like some Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro or some Apple Airpods Pro for maximum immersion.
If you’re at home, you can lay in bed or choose a cozy corner of your home. To further immerse yourself in the listening experience, don a pair of over-the-ear noise cancelling headphones to block out the outside world and plunge into the depths of these horror podcasts.
Creating The Perfect Ambiance
There’s not much you can do to create a great listening experience while you’re in your car or at the gym, but you do have a lot of control if you’re just listening at home. One thing that really takes the listening experience to new heights is lighting. You’re going to want a dark, moody set-up to really get in the mood. This can be achieved with LED lighting or even remote control candles, avoiding a fire hazard in case you doze off to your spooky stories.
Well, there it is, my round-up of the best horror podcasts on Spotify. There is an endless amount of comment in this genre out there, so I hope this blog post helps you narrow down your options.
There’s something here for everyone to keep you enthralled when you’re in that spooky mood (which for me is 24/7). I appreciate your readership and hope you keep coming back for more content.
Keep in mind that sometimes the most terrifying tales are just a play button away.
If you’re in the mood for more chilling blog posts, check out my recent posts like Horror Movies That Start With The Letter ‘S’ or Scariest Crossplay Horror Games, for you gamers out there.
I’d love to hear if any of these podcasts scratched that itch for you, or if you got too scared and had to stop halfway through. Comment down below if we missed your favorite horror podcast, subscribe to our Youtube channel, and make sure to come back for more horror-related blog posts. Also, remember to embrace the fear, all year ’round.
