Crime podcasts our new summer read

If it’s tales of murder, mystery and intrigue that relax you, Felix Desmarais has the definitive true crime podcast list for these balmy days.

Before 2014, the name Adnan Syed was unknown to most but thanks to podcasting, millions of people around the world now know all about him.

Syed, and his conviction for murdering his girlfriend Hae Min Lee in 1999 was the subject of podcast phenomenon Serial in 2014. The podcast, a 12-episode series hosted by American investigative journalist Sarah Koenig, was downloaded more than 80 million times by 2016.

Serial cracked open the door just enough on true crime podcasts to unleash a deluge. True crime is now one of the most popular – and prolific – podcast genres out there.

So let’s take a look at the best: Casefile – Hands down the best and most popular true crime podcast available. Voiced by a mysterious, gravelly-voiced anonymous host, this Australian podcast has been running for three years. Don’t be fooled by the backcatalogue of over a hundred episodes – you will burn through them before you know it.

Where to start: Episode 59 – Amy Lynn Bradley

In Sight – Hosts Ali and Charlie have a particular focus on unsolved murders and missing persons’ cases. Their empathetic approach and in-depth work makes this podcast a must-listen.

Where to start: Episode 110 – Dr Bogle and Mrs Chandler

Court Junkie – With American host Jillian’s focus on criminal trials,

Court Junkie is fascinating not just for its criminal subject matter but broader questions of truth and justice .

Where to start: Episode 29 – The Death of Conrad Roy (Michelle Carter trial)

True Crime All The Time – The

chemistry of the two Mikes that host True Crime All The Time and its ‘Unsolved’ counterpart such an entertaining listen. Unlike many other comedy adjacent true crime podcasts, the joke is never on the subject matter or victims but mostly on Mike ‘‘Gibby’’ Gibson’s terrible accents. Well-researched and well-written, Mike and Gibby are definitely worth a listen.

Where to start: Episode 11 – The Stalking and Murder of Rebecca Schaeffer

Serial Killers – the most polished of this group, Serial Killers is produced by podcast powerhouse Parcast. The production and scripting can feel a little unnatural at times but makes up for it with its research and writing, filling in gaps of knowledge. It’s the Law And Order to Police Ten 7 – there’s a time and place for both.

Where to start: Episode 52 – ‘‘The Blood Countess’’ – Elizabeth Bathory