The Future of Podcasts: Betting on the Next Big Series

As we move into January 2025, podcasts are continuing to grow in popularity, providing entertainment, information, and connection for millions of listeners. But in an increasingly crowded marketplace, which shows will break out from the pack and become the next big hits? Based on the current podcast charts and buzz, here are the top contenders for podcast success in 2025. With new platforms and distribution models emerging, podcasting is likely to see continued innovation and expansion in the coming years.

The Telepathy Tapes – Pushing Boundaries on What’s Possible

Currently sitting at #1 on the podcast charts, The Telepathy Tapes explores the extraordinary abilities of some individuals with autism, including telepathy, extraordinary perception, and silent communication. By profiling seemingly-impossible feats like mind-reading tests and psychic connections, the show expands ideas of human potential and connection.

The Telepathy Tapes is hosted by Ky Dickens and produced by Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Dan Cogan. Dickens, who is best known for her Peabody Award-winning documentary series, brings heartfelt storytelling and thoughtful interviews. Her open curiosity invites listeners to suspend disbelief and embrace new perspectives.

With its cinematic production value and tantalizing subject matter, The Telepathy Tapes seems poised to remain a chart-topper through 2025 and beyond. Its bold exploration of paranormal phenomena through human stories creates compelling listening while testing the boundaries of what’s considered possible.

The Joe Rogan Experience – Doubling Down on Controversy

The Joe Rogan Experience holds strong at #2 with its uncensored long-form interviews ranging from academics to pop culture icons. Rogan’s unfiltered style draws in millions of loyal listeners but also court’s controversy.

In 2022, Rogan’s deal with Spotify came under fire for COVID misinformation spread on the show. However, Spotify has stood by Rogan, betting that his diverse guests and candid conversational style will continue engaging audiences despite backlash.

Given Rogan’s podcasting track record over the past decade, his ability to grab headlines, and Spotify’s robust marketing machine, The Joe Rogan Experience seems guaranteed to drive conversation – and listenership – throughout 2025. However, balancing Rogan’s freewheeling approach alongside responsible content guidelines will be critical to retaining mainstream appeal.

The LOL Podcast – Comedy on the Rise

Jumping to #3 on the charts is The LOL Podcast, hosted by social media influencers Cash Baker, Maverick Baker, Kate Baker, Kenzie Baker, and Harper Zilmer. With contagious chemistry among the young hosts, rapid-fire jokes, and upbeat energy, The LOL Podcast is successfully attracting younger demographics.

Top podcasters often struggle to expand beyond their core fanbases, but influencer-hosts like The LOL Podcast crew bring built-in audiences. And their focus on shareable laughs provides entertaining content primed for social media.

While comedy podcasts rarely top the charts, The LOL Podcast’s social media savvy and hosts’ existing fame position it for continued growth. As platforms like TikTok and Instagram increasingly launch podcasts in 2025, shows like The LOL Podcast feel like the future.

Keep an Eye on These Up-and-Comers

While the current top three seem likely to dominate through 2025, several emerging shows could break into the top tier. Here are three to watch:

The Shawn Ryan Show – Retired Navy SEAL Shawn Ryan offers candid conversations with special operations veterans, resilience experts, and high-achievers. Ryan’s focused interviews and lively guest mix attract listeners seeking motivation and meaning.

The Mel Robbins Podcast – One of the top self-help podcasts, Mel Robbins brings fierce insight and empowerment to audiences, especially women. With call-in segments providing concrete advice, Robbins builds loyal engagement.

Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett – This UK podcast has quickly built momentum with entrepreneur Steven Bartlett’s candid, unpolished interviews exploring business, money, and life. Diary of a CEO brings a fresh perspective from Bartlett’s self-made success.

While another breakout hit could arise from anywhere, these three diverse shows demonstrate the potential to grow audiences and compete with established titans.

Big Names Bring Instant Recognition, But Have Mixed Results

Podcasts hosted by celebrities or public figures grab attention easily, but don’t always sustain momentum. Shows like Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard, Call Her Daddy with Alex Cooper, and Anything Goes with Emma Chamberlain quickly climbed the charts given their hosts’ existing fame. However, they plateaued in listenership rather than crossing over into the mainstream.

Meanwhile, bespoke podcast production companies like Gimlet Media are tapping big names like Barack and Michelle Obama to headline shows, banking on celebrity interest while pairing the famous with experienced podcast creators. High profile hosts provide a strong starting point, but the most successful shows combine star power with skilled storytelling.

Ultimately, celebrity-led shows tend to become niche favorites rather than mass appeal juggernauts. But their built-in audiences can prove extremely lucrative, making them attractive low-risk bets for podcast networks.

True Crime and Comedy – Reliable Crowd-Pleasers

Two reliable podcast genres—true crime and comedy—demonstrate the power of sticking to tried-and-true formulas. Shows like Crime Junkie, My Favorite Murder, and Last Podcast on the Left dominate the true crime category thanks to their chilling real-life tales. And stand-up comics have successfully parlayed existing fanbases into popular podcasts, from Tom Segura to John Mulaney.

These genres succeed by delivering exactly what audiences expect. While they may not generate buzz like bold new shows, their consistency pays off. True crime and comedy podcasts are unlikely to burn bright then fade. Their ability to repeatedly satisfy niche audiences with familiar formats means they should continue prospering.

The Future is Wide Open

With podcasting consumption continuing its upward trajectory, the possibilities feel endless for what might resonate with audiences next. While social media celebrities and big-name hosts have an advantage, unknown creators can still cut through the noise with fresh formats, underserved perspectives, and digital savvy.

As podcasts keep maturing in 2025, the opportunity expands for new voices and ideas to emerge. Rather than betting on a single new hit, an expanding palette of creative, diverse shows feels like the most exciting future for podcasting. We can’t wait to listen and see what surprises are in store.