The best podcasts of 2026 so far include surreal genius from Harry Hill, trailblazing women, and a passionate ode to an incredible New York rapper. Here are the top listens from the last six months.
The Harry Hill Show
Comedy great Harry Hill's daft new series leaves guests like Adam Hills confused but delighted. With a puppet that licks guests, viral stars, and an AI bot dispensing chocolate bars, the show is even better in video format—a rare compliment for a podcast.
Off Duty
This Guardian true-crime series tells the story of murdered police officer Clifton Lewis and the man convicted, Alex Villa. Investigative journalist Melissa Segura explores a 12-year legal odyssey, misconduct allegations, and a system determined to keep Villa imprisoned at all costs.
Sisters of Defiance
Radio 4 Woman's Hour host Anita Rani interviews rebellious women who broke boundaries, including Bridgerton star Adjoa Andoh, comedian Fatiha El-Ghorri, and feminist icon Gisèle Pelicot. The opening episode with Meera Syal sets a high bar, discussing empty-nest homes and divorce in south Asian communities.
A History of the United States in 100 Objects
Roman Mars of 99% Invisible explores the backstories of everyday items to tell the tale of US triumphs and shames. Historians like Jill Lepore and podcasters such as Dan Taberski and Latif Nasser make this a star-studded series.
The Book Club
Dominic Sandbrook and Tabitha Syrett host a book club podcast covering everything from Wuthering Heights to A Court of Thorns and Roses. Their enlightening chats make this the kind of club bookworms dream of.
Love and Radio: Blood Memory
This 10-episode series introduces Michael Thompson, a convicted murderer and former Aryan Brotherhood leader who turned his back on the gang. Based on years of interviews, it offers a fascinating study of a lifetime spent in prison.
Foundling
Reporter Lucy Greenwell tracks down a baby found near her childhood home decades later, uncovering secrets, lies, and abandonments. The series is full of twists but handles sensitive topics with tact.
Serial: The Idiot
New York Times columnist M Gessen investigates their cousin Allen, charged with ordering a hit on his ex-wife. This true-crime series avoids cliches, taking a subtle approach to family dynamics and a dark world of abduction and deceit.
Get Birding With Sean Bean
Sean Bean hosts an adorable birdwatching podcast, enthusiastically describing his wildlife garden and nature's glory. Expert and celebrity interviews, including Johnny Vaughan and Will Young, add to the soothing delight.
MF Doom: Long Island to Leeds
Adam Batty and Afrodeutsche explore how masked hip-hop artist MF Doom ended up living his final years in West Yorkshire. With guests like Romesh Ranganathan, it's a passionate ode to a pioneering artist and his legacy.
