Podcasting in 2024 wasn’t just about who had the most downloads—it was about who owned the conversation. Whether through viral moments, high-profile guests, or formats that pushed the medium forward, certain shows defined the year. From cultural deep dives to celebrity-led hits, these were the biggest podcasts of 2024 and what made them stand out.

1. The Joe Rogan Experience

Still one of the most talked-about podcasts in the world, Joe Rogan’s mix of long-form interviews and unfiltered conversation kept him at the top. With a mix of controversial guests, cultural commentary, and viral clips circulating on social media, his show remained a major force in podcasting.

2. SmartLess

Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett’s celebrity interview show continued its hot streak in 2024. With a mix of humor, industry insights, and surprise guests, SmartLess consistently ranked among the most-streamed podcasts. Their live tour and video podcast expansion helped bring in even more listeners.

3. Call Her Daddy

Alex Cooper’s podcast evolved far beyond its original dating-advice roots. In 2024, she leaned into celebrity interviews, personal storytelling, and cultural commentary, solidifying her status as one of the most influential voices in podcasting. Her ability to blend intimacy with headline-making conversations kept Call Her Daddy in constant discussion.

4. The Daily

The New York Times’ flagship news podcast remained essential listening. Covering everything from the 2024 election to breaking global events, The Daily continued to set the standard for news-driven podcasts, offering deep dives that traditional media didn’t always have time for.

5. My Favorite Murder

True crime continues to dominate podcasting, and My Favorite Murder held onto its place as one of the most listened-to shows. Even in a crowded space, its mix of crime storytelling and comedy kept longtime fans engaged while bringing in new listeners.

6. The Always Sunny Podcast

Hosted by the stars of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, this behind-the-scenes podcast became a major hit, proving that fans love hearing creators talk about their own work. The blend of nostalgia, humor, and off-the-cuff storytelling made it a standout among TV rewatch podcasts.

7. Huberman Lab

Dr. Andrew Huberman’s science-based podcast continued its rise, bringing neuroscience, health, and performance optimization to mainstream audiences. His ability to break down complex topics into digestible, practical insightshelped the show maintain its massive reach.

8. New Heights with Jason and Travis Kelce

Fueled by Travis Kelce’s relationship with Taylor Swift and the brothers' chemistry, New Heights became a cultural force in 2024. Mixing sports talk, NFL insights, and personal stories, the show brought in listeners beyond just football fans.

9. The Rest Is Politics

This UK-based political podcast, featuring former politicians Alastair Campbell and Rory Stewart, gained international attention in 2024, especially during the U.S. election cycle. Its balance of insider knowledge and candid analysis made it a must-listen for political junkies.

10. On Purpose with Jay Shetty

Jay Shetty’s self-improvement and mindfulness podcast continued to attract big guests and a loyal audience. His ability to mix wellness advice with high-profile interviews kept On Purpose among the year’s top-ranking podcasts.

Wrapping it up

The biggest podcasts of 2024 didn’t just rack up streams—they created moments. Whether through viral clips, cultural relevance, or a unique approach to storytelling, each of these shows found ways to keep audiences engaged. As video podcasting and short-form promotion become even more important, expect the biggest shows of 2025 to take those lessons and push the format even further.