We are already reaching the last month of the year, so Apple, as usual, has announced its annual list of most popular podcasts of 2024available in the Explore tab of the Apple Podcasts app until the end of the year.
This summary includes the most followed, shared and featured programs of the year, both in the United States and in almost 100 countries. We tell you which podcasts stand out and which ones have surprised us. There are many that we did not expect. Keep reading and tell us what you think in the comments.
The public’s favorite podcasts
In the ranking of the most popular programs of 2024, “The Daily” leads the listfollowed by hits like “Crime Junkie” and “The Joe Rogan Experience.” Other notable titles include “Dateline NBC,” “SmartLess,” and the popular science show “Huberman Lab.” As for this year’s new additions, “The Tucker Carlson Show,” “Three” and “Mortal Sin” take the top spots among the most successful premieres.
The most watched episodes include topics ranging from political debates to crime investigations. Among them, highlights “SERIAL KILLER: The Alphabet Murders Part 1” of Crime Junkie and the episode ”#2219 – Donald Trump” of The Joe Rogan Experience.
Regarding the most shared programs, “Huberman Lab” tops the listfollowed by “Scamanda” and “Wiser Than Me with Julia Louis-Dreyfus.” This ranking shows how listeners value both entertainment and learning, opting for informative productions. Additionally, shows like “Call Her Daddy,” “The Mel Robbins Podcast,” and the aforementioned The Joe Rogan Experience are among the most followed of the year, reflecting their enormous impact on digital platforms.
Premium content has also gained prominence this year. Among the most popular subscription programs are: “Apple News+ Narrated”“Morbid” and “Dateline NBC”, while Wondery, iHeartPodcasts and The New York Times dominate the most listened to channels.
The best globally and the future of the app
In addition to the regional lists, Apple has included a collection titled “Shows We Love”which brings together a selection of narrative and episodic series that have caused a great positive impact, especially this year. This reflects Apple’s effort to highlight innovative and relevant productions beyond traditional metrics, giving smaller episodes the opportunity to sneak into the chosen ones.
Apple announced that it will reveal its “Program of the Year” next Tuesday, December 3, an award that recognizes the quality and impact of a podcast in the current landscape. Who will be the winner?
What makes a podcast stand out?
This year’s list shows a balance between entertainment, education and current affairs. From scientific analyzes in “Huberman Lab”to true crime stories “Crime Junkie”listeners look for programs that offer relevant and engaging content. In addition, we see the clear upward trend in serial crimes, which are becoming more and more popular.
If you are a podcast lover, this selection from Apple is an opportunity to discover new stories and programs that could accompany you during the next year. Which title from this list will you add to your play queue?
