Podcasts have exploded in popularity over the past few years, and 2024 is no different. Whether you’re a fan of spine-tingling thrillers, swoon-worthy romances, or fantastical adventures that transport you to other worlds, there are storytelling or fiction podcasts out there for you.
Keep reading this article to discover your new favorite podcast and enhance your daily commute, workout routine or a quiet evening at home with alluring narratives from skilled raconteurs around the globe. This article rounds up some of the top-notch fiction podcasts that promise an immersive audio experience like no other.
Best Fiction Podcasts You Must Listen Now
Welcome To Night Vale
Welcome to Night Vale is a quirky and captivating podcast that serves as community updates for the fictional town of Night Vale. Created by Joseph Fink and Jeffrey Cranor in 2012, it’s a place where all conspiracy theories are true, making ordinary announcements about the weather or local events sparkle with strange phenomena such as mysterious lights or dark hooded figures. The show’s main character, Cecil Gershwin Palmer who also serves as the host and narrator, is voiced by Cecil Baldwin while other characters get life through guest voice artists like Dylan Marron.
Each bi-monthly episode features an eclectic mix of news, weather reports (which cleverly doubles up as music from independent artists), Sheriff’s Secret Police notifications and cultural event descriptions. These episodes are paired with background scores created by Disparition which add to the suspenseful yet humorous tone of this series. Whether you choose to start from the latest episode or binge-listen right from Episode 1 – prepare yourself for an eerie radio journey into this lovable desert town!
The Moth
The Moth podcast brings to life real narratives told by people from all walks of life. Founded in 1997 by George Dawes Green, The Moth aims to encapsulate the intimate and inviting atmosphere of storytelling on warm summer evenings. This fiction podcast focuses on the simplicity yet profound artistry in storytelling, where each tale is shared live without any script or notes.
With over a decade’s worth of stories since its launch, The Moth has seen countless true accounts shared through its platform. Notable hosts like Jenifer Hixson, Neil Gaiman and Bethany Van Delft have guided listeners through these mesmerizing tales. These raw narratives honour the diversity and commonality within human experiences – proving just how impactful a well-told story can be.
The Sleepy Bookshelf
The Sleepy Bookshelf podcast is curated by Elizabeth Grace that aids in relaxation and sleep. Each episode starts with a simple relaxing activity such as breathing exercise or meditation, followed by a summary of the previous episode’s chapters, and finally reading out one or two chapters from a classic novel. The hour-long episodes are characterized by Elizabeth’s calming voice and slow pace which let you unwind easily.
You can find an array of classic novels on The Sleepy Bookshelf including famous ones like ‘To The Lighthouse’ and ‘A Christmas Carol’, along with lesser-known works and children stories. This makes it an ideal choice for those struggling to fall asleep as well as busy individuals who wish to enjoy classic literature in their downtime.
Story Radio
The Story Radio podcast is a monthly celebration of the literary short story and everything related to books. Hosted by Tabitha Potts, an East London writer with several published works, and Martin Nathan, a writer with diverse career experiences from being a pancake chef to railway engineer. You can expect interesting conversations and engaging short fiction every 1st of the month at 12:00am.
Suitable for established writers as well as newbies in the English language writing scene, the podcast serves bite-sized stories perfect for all bookworms. The best part? It’s always open for submissions – absolutely free! Tune in to Story Radio Podcast for your regular dose of succinct storytelling.
Selected Shorts
Selected Shorts is an entertaining podcast that brings together great stories and stellar performances. Bornin 1985 on the stage at Symphony Space, it’s grown to become one of the most recognized shows in its genre. The podcast takes engaging tales penned by both established and emerging writers, which are then brought to life by talented actors.
Each episode of Selected Shorts revolves around a specific theme with multiple stories relating to it. These narratives, primarily fiction — sometimes classic, sometimes new — are often presented alongside writers, literary producers or other captivating figures. With fresh episodes released every Thursday from Symphony Space in New York City, this podcast provides listeners with a weekly dose of compelling storytelling.
The NoSleep Podcast
The NoSleep Podcast is a popular online program that brings to life the chilling tales found on Reddit’s Nosleep forum. The idea was born in 2011 from the mind of Matt Hansen, who suggested creating an audiobook-style podcast where some of the top stories from Nosleep would be narrated. Since its inception, it has grown considerably with members volunteering to lend their voices and help produce each episode.
Hosted and produced by David Cummings, new episodes are released every two weeks. The process of producing this podcast is always evolving as different Redditors contribute their skills by lending their voices or assisting in production work. Over time, it has proudly featured works from authors who have gone on to publish them including acclaimed entries like “Penpal” by Dathan Auerbach and “99 Brief Scenes from the End of the World” by T.W Grim.
The Classic Tales Podcast
The Classic Tales Podcast is your weekly ticket to adventure, hosted by the award-winning narrator B.J. Harrison. Each episode takes you on a thrilling journey through some of the world’s most beloved stories, spanning across continents and centuries. From the mysterious jungles of South America to Victorian England’s bustling streets, this podcast will transport you into spellbinding narratives penned by legendary authors like Poe, Dickens and Hardy.
This isn’t just about entertainment though – The Classic Tales Podcast aims to make classic literature more accessible for everyone. Whether you’re an avid reader or someone who finds reading challenging, this podcast can help open up a whole new world of storytelling for you. So if you’re looking for a good story with plenty of depth, give The Classic Tales Podcast a try!
DERELICT
The DERELICT podcast plunges you into a world of chilling mysteries and dark secrets set in the vast expanse of space. Follow the journey of a ragtag team, assembled by Maas-Dorian – the galaxy’s most formidable corporation, as they scramble to recover their lost ship, Crichton and uncover its enigmatic past. Listen in as this desperate group navigates through unnerving realities far beyond human comprehension; each episode pulling back another layer from the enigma that is the derelict.
In season one “FATHOM”, experience an adrenaline-fueled ride nineteen thousand feet below Earth’s ocean surface where a colossal alien artifact lies hidden. Unravel alongside our protagonists what lurks within ‘The Vault’, stirring ripples that could change everything we know about our universe. As tales continue to unfold in season two, prepare for an enthralling auditory experience filled with suspenseful twists and turns guaranteed to keep you on edge throughout your cosmic voyage with DERELICT.
The Other Stories
The Other Stories is a weekly podcast that breathes life into stories you wouldn’t normally hear. Think of it as a contemporary spin on classic shows like The Twilight Zone or Tales From the Crypt, delivering an eclectic mix of Sci-Fi, Horror, Thriller and unexpected WTF narratives directly to your podcast feed every Monday morning.
Created by four ambitious writers who brainstorm ideas over Skype calls, The Other Stories serves up an intriguing cocktail of ideas. Expect elements of surprise and suspense woven into tales designed to jab at the collective unconscious when least expected. It’s a whole new world of unexplored territories and thrilling adventures waiting for listeners every week.
LeVar Burton Reads
LeVar Burton Reads is a podcast where host LeVar Burton narrates some of the finest short stories from celebrated authors. Known for his roles in Roots, Reading Rainbow and Star Trek, Burton takes you on an immersive audio journey through captivating tales written by literary giants like Stephen King, Toni Morrison, Ken Liu and more. These narratives are beautifully intertwined with stunning soundscapes that make your listening experience truly unique.
Burton himself is an acclaimed actor, director and educator who has penned award-winning children’s books such as The Rhino Who Swallowed a Storm and A Kids Book About Imagination. His narration skills have led to the podcast clinching the 2020 Ignyte Award for Best Fiction Podcast. So if you fancy taking a break from reality and diving headfirst into masterfully woven stories brought alive through enchanting audio experiences, then this podcast is just what you need!
1001 Classic Short Stories & Tales
The 1001 Classic Short Stories & Tales podcast is a delightful treasure trove of handpicked short stories from some of the world’s most renowned authors. This includes literary heavyweights like Jack London, Guy de Maupassant, Edith Wharton, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, H.P. Lovecraft and many others. These tales are carefully chosen for their unique flavor and storytelling prowess.
Twice weekly on Wednesdays at 5pm ET and Sundays at noon ET, immerse yourself in captivating narratives that will transport you to different eras and realms. This podcast caters to all ages with a diverse range of tastes. This collection opens up a window into times when great storytelling was crafted through powerful descriptions and imaginative scenarios.
Sherlock & Co.
Sherlock & Co. is an engaging weekly podcast that reimagines the iconic Sherlock Holmes tales, transforming them into modern-day audio adventures. The narrative revolves around Dr. John Watson, a former British Army Northumberland Fusilier Regiment soldier turned true crime podcaster based in Central London, as he embarks on fascinating adventures with the eccentric and brilliant detective, Sherlock Holmes.
The podcast kicks off with their investigation of “The Edelweiss Murder,” providing listeners with an exciting introduction to what they can expect from this thrilling series. Voiced by Paul Waggott (Dr. John Watson) and Harry Attwell (Sherlock Holmes), this series created by Joel Emery offers intriguing mysteries wrapped up in bite-sized episodes perfect for anyone who enjoys suspenseful stories packed with mystery and deduction.
Venture into the Captivating World of Fiction Podcasts This 2024
Podcasts have transformed the way we consume stories, offering an immersive experience that allows our imagination to run wild. The storytelling and fiction podcasts highlighted in this article are some of the best – each one provides a unique journey through thrilling narratives, brought alive by talented raconteurs. Whether you’re looking for a companion during your commute or workout routine, or seeking solace in a quiet evening at home, these compelling audio tales promise to keep you hooked from start to finish.
Dive right in – a world full of mesmerizing stories awaits just beyond the click of a button!
