If you’re into true crime podcasts but don’t know where to start, I’d recommend listening to the Criminal Podcast. It’s definitely one of my favorites and is arguably one of the best ones out there.
Criminal is a show that tells stories about people who’ve either committed crimes, been victims of crimes or found themselves somewhere in between. Most cases covered in the podcast have already been resolved or closed. But what makes it unique is how the host, Phoebe Judge, narrates these stories.
She has this exceptional way of keeping you on edge until midway through each episode – that’s when everything starts making sense! So if you enjoy compelling storytelling and intriguing tales from the world of crime, give Criminal a listen.
The podcast will give you a rollercoaster ride experience with how much the stories vary from episode to episode and how great the writing is. One of the fan-favorite episodes is A Bump in the Night. It is about a young woman who suddenly notices strange sounds in her newly moved apartment. The thrill of this episode will give you whiplash.
The guests were given a platform to talk about their experiences, and Judge interviewed them and narrated at the same time. It is well executed and will just give you the chills. They cover all sorts of true crime stories that will shake you to the core within just 30-40 minutes. This is great thanks to the all-female producers of the show, Nadia Wilson, Sussanah Roberson, and the narrator and co-creator herself, Phoebe Judge. They truly know how to make waves in just a small amount of time.
What do I find great about Criminal Podcast?
What is so great about the Criminal podcast is how well-executed it is. I personally love deep dive stories where I would listen to just one story that will be covered with multiple episodes that would last for several hours. However, Criminal gives well-detailed and great storytelling within a usually half an hour frame that does not lack substantial information. Every moment is worth listening to and will put you on the edge of your seat.
Most true crime podcasts would have had to create an eerie atmosphere to follow their story. However, Judge’s gentle and almost soothing voice is exactly the opposite, but she never fails to create tension and eventual dread when you get to listen to the stories she conveys.
Another important highlight of the show is Judge’s brilliance in interviewing. When the guests come and they retell their stories, she never fails to ask appropriate and rightful questions that will let the story flow. At the same time, we get to hear the raw emotions of the guests and the host’s empathetic insight. Judge’s perspectives are hard-hitting and push the right buttons.
What do I not?
Criminal Podcast is arguably one of the best podcasts out there, hands up. It has compelling storytelling, concise information, and the best insights. What I noticed about the podcast is its lack of categories. Personally, I would appreciate it if there were categories, so it is at least sorted out. You normally will encounter new episodes that you may not have any idea what the theme is about.
However, they do have brief descriptions, which I appreciate. An addition of any trigger warnings or themes would be great for each episode. Also, from what I see, some people may not enjoy listening to short stories and may prefer listening to in-depth multi-episodes. I am one of those, as I have mentioned before. But then again, this is a matter of preference only.
Overall Thoughts
I must say that there is a lot to love about Criminal, and I am a big fan already. If you are looking for a podcast with several stories of people with different experiences related to true crime, their episodes are superb and will not disappoint. The stories are well-detailed and thoroughly researched, and the conversations and interviews are simply on-point. The narration is thought-provoking and exciting. I must say that it is one of the best true crime podcasts out there. Check out the Criminal podcast. You will surely love it!
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