Podcasts are clearly growing in popularity. This form of media has been steadily rising since the aughts, back when podcasts seemed like a conveniently pre-recorded variant of radio.
But in the age of streaming services with on-demand content libraries and ubiquitous smart devices, the appeal of podcasts that people can listen to whenever and wherever has been cemented. The mark on pop culture is clear.
Video content shared on social-media platforms is another driver of popularity for podcasts. Content-marketing strategy is increasingly involving access to podcasting equipment, the way search engine optimization needs blog posts.
Plus, that also opens the door to podcast listeners across many target audiences. The podcasting directories on the major podcast apps have great content for just about everyone.
2025 will surely be a year where podcasts’ relevance will only grow, as video podcasts continue to grow.
Four Most-Influential Podcasts in 2025
Below, you will find a list of podcasts that could be considered influential for many reasons.
The criteria for this list are longevity, audience size, and overall cultural impact.
The Mel Robbins Podcast
The Mel Robbins Podcast is currently 3rd on Apple Podcast’s top shows and #20 spot on Spotify’s charts. Mel Robbins is a best-selling author with billions of views on YouTube. This show’s specialty is self-improvement and motivational content.
Her podcast titles and related marketing content directly address the listeners. For instance, the title “If You’re Feeling Uncertain & Anxious, You Need to Hear This”. This podcast has been around for years and is undeniably popular. Her relatable audience-focused content has been a key to this show’s success.
IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson
An increasingly common phenomenon in podcasting is to see high-profile people—politicians, celebrities, and other big names—become the hosts, rather than be just guests, of podcasts.
This podcast is not currently a top-ranking podcast, but it is hosted by former First Lady Michelle Obama and her brother Craig Robinson. The format is simple: discussing, sometimes with a celebrity guest, listener-submitted questions that can cover a range of topics. (“IMO” is an abbreviation for “in my opinion”, signaling that this is an advice podcast.)
This podcast could prove influential in getting more big names into podcasting, thereby making the podcasting industry more competitive and raising the status of podcasts in the media landscape.
Crime Junkie
Crime Junkie is one of the most iconic shows in podcasting history. It is the most popular true crime show in podcasting in 2025. As of the time this article was last updated, it is the 4th most popular podcast overall on both Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
What makes it so influential? In this show, host Ashley Flowers unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. Their unique storytelling and ability to build a community with their audience have allowed them to have massive success. The show’s popularity has helped shed light on often-forgotten cold cases and help ensure that the victims and their families will find justice.
The Joe Rogan Experience
It’s kind of impossible to be talking about the most influential podcasts in 2025 without mentioning the most popular show out there. The Joe Rogan Experience is hosted by controversial comedian Joe Rogan. It is currently the #1-ranked show on both Spotify & Apple Podcasts. It’s also the #1 trending show and the #1 comedy show as well.
Joe interviews celebrities, authors, directors, actors, politicians, journalists, scientists, and even conspiracy theorists. His show covers the gamut from health, politics, pop culture, stand-up comedy, MMA fighting, and more. Despite what your personal opinions of Rogan might be, his show’s cultural significance cannot be ignored.
The State of Podcasts in 2025
Each one of these podcasts is influential in its own right. All of their shows are attracting massive audiences and growing more and more dedicated fans who are tuning in each week. These shows can make massive impacts and can help change the entire cultural discussion with their influence.
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