The Best Horror Podcasts on Spotify That Are Genuinely Scary

If you’re a fan of creepy tales, spine-tingling stories, and the eerie unknown, podcasts have become one of the best ways to get your horror fix. And where better to dive into this hauntingly addictive world than on Spotify? With its wide array of choices, Spotify is a treasure trove of chilling content for every type of horror enthusiast.

To save you the trouble of sifting through countless options, I’ve curated a list of the 20 best horror podcasts on Spotify that will send shivers down your spine. From real-life horrors to supernatural terrors, these podcasts deliver fear straight to your ears.

1. The NoSleep Podcast

The NoSleep Podcast is a popular horror anthology series that originated from the Reddit forum “NoSleep,” where users share original scary stories. This weekly podcast was launched in 2011 after Matt Hansen proposed the idea of adapting these stories into an audiobook format. David Cummings, who became the host and producer, helped establish the podcast, which quickly gained a following due to its immersive storytelling and high-quality production.

Key Features

• Format: The podcast features dramatic readings of horror stories, often accompanied by atmospheric sound design and voice acting. Episodes typically include multiple stories, offering a variety of horror experiences in each installment.
• Content: Stories range from supernatural encounters to psychological thrillers, with many tales exploring deeply unsettling themes. The podcast has also featured works from authors who later published their stories, such as Dathan Auerbach’s “Penpal” series.
• Production Quality: Known for its excellent sound design and talented voice actors, the podcast creates a deeply immersive listening experience. The sound engineers enhance the tension and atmosphere with subtle effects, making each story come alive.
• Release Schedule: New episodes are released weekly, with special collections like the “bloodstone” series offering longer, multi-part narratives that delve deeper into complex storylines.
• Subscription Model: To support its production, The NoSleep Podcast offers a Season Pass Program. Subscribers gain access to full-length episodes and bonus content, while free listeners receive shorter versions of each episode.

Why Listen: Perfect for those who want immersive, well-produced audio storytelling.

2. Lore

Lore is a documentary podcast created and hosted by Aaron Mahnke. It delves into folklore, legends, and historical events, often highlighting the macabre aspects of these tales. The podcast is known for its storytelling style, which has been compared to a campfire experience, where listeners are drawn into eerie and mysterious narratives.

Key Features

• Format and Content: Each episode of Lore examines various stories tied together by a common theme, focusing on the darker side of human nature. The stories are based on documented historical events or folklore that people believed to be true. Episodes typically range from 17 to 44 minutes in length.
• Production and Release: The podcast is produced by Aaron Mahnke under Grim & Mild Entertainment and releases new episodes biweekly, usually on Mondays. Mahnke spends significant time researching each topic to ensure accuracy and depth.
• Popularity and Impact: Lore has achieved significant success, with over 450 million listens and numerous awards, including the iTunes “Best of 2015” and the Academy of Podcasters’ “Best History Podcast” in 2016. The podcast’s compelling storytelling and high production quality have contributed to its widespread acclaim.
• Adaptations: Lore was adapted into a television series by Amazon Video, which aired for two seasons from 2017 to 2019. The TV adaptation maintained the anthology format of the podcast, with Aaron Mahnke serving as the narrator.
• Books: Aaron Mahnke has also authored a trilogy of books titled The World of Lore, which expands on the stories featured in the podcast.
• Related Projects: In addition to Lore, Mahnke hosts other podcasts such as Cabinet of Curiosities and Unobscured, further exploring historical mysteries and oddities.

Why Listen: A great pick for history buffs who love a creepy twist.

3. Scared to Death

Scared to Death is a horror podcast hosted by Dan Cummins, a stand-up comedian and horror enthusiast, and his wife, Lynze Cummins. The podcast is designed to entertain listeners with spooky stories, unexplained events, and jumpscares, making it particularly appealing to fans of the paranormal and horror genres.

Key Features

• Hosts and Format: Dan and Lynze Cummins bring a unique dynamic to the show with their chemistry as a married couple. Dan typically tells well-researched stories that often include real-life accounts or historical documentation, while Lynze shares fan-submitted tales, adding a personal touch to the storytelling. This combination creates an engaging mix of authenticity and relatability.
• Content: The podcast covers a wide range of horror topics including hauntings, demonic possessions, shadow people, death curses, poltergeists, and serial killers. Each episode typically features two main stories told by the hosts, often accompanied by atmospheric music and sound effects to enhance the eerie ambiance.
• Production Setting: Episodes are recorded in a dimly lit studio filled with eerie decor, located near a cemetery, which adds to the spooky atmosphere. This setting helps immerse listeners in the chilling narratives.
• Tone and Style: While the podcast aims to frighten its audience, it also incorporates humor through Dan’s comedic background. This blend of horror and levity makes for an entertaining listening experience that balances tension with moments of light-heartedness.
• Audience Engagement: The podcast encourages listener participation through story submissions and maintains an active community of fans known as “Creeps” and “Peepers.” It also offers additional content through platforms like Patreon.

Why Listen: Combines creepy tales with a lighthearted vibe, making it both scary and fun.

4. Old Gods of Appalachia

Old Gods of Appalachia is a horror anthology podcast that blends elements of Lovecraftian horror with Appalachian folklore. Created by Steve Shell and Cam Collins, the podcast debuted on October 31, 2019, and is produced by DeepNerd Media. It has gained popularity for its rich storytelling and atmospheric soundscapes, which transport listeners to an alternate version of Appalachia filled with ancient, dark forces. Since its inception it has been one of the most popular horror podcasts.

Key Features

• Setting and Themes: The podcast is set in a fictionalized version of Appalachia, where the mountains harbor ancient, malevolent beings. These eldritch entities were imprisoned beneath the earth long ago, but as time passes, their influence begins to seep into the world above. The show explores themes of industrialization, folklore, and the supernatural.
• Narrative Style: Each episode combines narration with audio drama elements to tell stories that span from the 17th to the early 20th century. The narratives often focus on powerful women and marginalized communities, weaving together personal tales with broader historical events.
• Characters and Story Arcs: The podcast features a variety of characters whose lives are intertwined with the supernatural elements of this alternate Appalachia. While each story arc can stand alone, they collectively contribute to a larger saga that unfolds over multiple seasons.
• Production Quality: Known for its high production values, Old Gods of Appalachia uses immersive sound design and compelling voice acting to enhance its storytelling. Steve Shell’s narration is particularly noted for its emotional depth and ability to draw listeners into the eerie world of the podcast.
• Cultural Impact: The podcast has been praised for its authentic representation of Appalachian culture and its ability to blend historical fiction with horror. It has also inspired a role-playing game adaptation by Monte Cook Games.

Why Listen: For fans of intricate world-building and gothic horror.

5. Let’s Not Meet: A True Horror Podcast

Let’s Not Meet: A True Horror Podcast is a horror storytelling podcast that features true horror stories written by individuals who have experienced unsettling encounters. The podcast is hosted by Andrew Tate and produced by Cryptic County.

Key Features

• Format and Content: Each episode typically runs for about an hour and includes approximately six stories. These stories are first-person accounts submitted by listeners, focusing on real-life experiences with disturbing strangers or situations. The minimalist production style, with limited use of sound effects and music, keeps the focus on the storytelling itself.
• Production and Release: The podcast first premiered on January 22, 2017, and has released over 300 episodes across multiple seasons. It has developed a significant following due to its engaging narrative style and authentic storytelling.
• Reception: Let’s Not Meet has been well-received by audiences and critics alike. It was a finalist in the 2019 Discover Pods awards and was ranked number twenty-five on Podcast Magazine’s list of the best horror and crime podcasts. Critics have praised the authenticity of the stories and Tate’s ability to convey the voice of each writer convincingly.
• Community Engagement: The podcast encourages listener participation through story submissions, allowing fans to share their own experiences. Additionally, Andrew Tate hosts related shows such as Odd Trails, a paranormal podcast, and Old Time Radiocast, which features classic radio dramas.

Why Listen: True horror fans will relish these chilling, real-world accounts.

6. Welcome to Night Vale

Welcome to Night Vale is a popular fiction podcast created by Joseph Fink and Jeffrey Cranor. It is presented as a community radio show in the fictional desert town of Night Vale, where strange and supernatural events are part of everyday life. The podcast debuted in 2012 and has since gained a cult following due to its unique blend of surreal humor, horror, and science fiction.

Key Features

• Format and Content: The podcast is structured like a local radio broadcast, with Cecil Baldwin voicing the host, Cecil Gershwin Palmer. Each episode features news updates, weather reports, and community announcements that reveal the bizarre happenings in Night Vale. Recurring segments include fake advertisements, traffic reports, and weather updates, often featuring music from independent artists.
• Themes and Style: Welcome to Night Vale combines elements of the macabre and the mundane, creating a world where the strange is normalized. The show often uses humor to lighten its eerie and sometimes unsettling stories. It explores themes of conspiracy theories, supernatural occurrences, and the absurdity of everyday life.
• Cultural Impact: The podcast has been praised for its creativity, LGBT representation, and Baldwin’s engaging performance. It has inspired live shows, novels, and other media adaptations. The show’s popularity has been bolstered by a strong fan community on platforms like Tumblr, where fan art and fan fiction are widely shared.
• Live Shows and Adaptations: In addition to regular podcast episodes, Welcome to Night Vale has produced live shows performed by the cast at various venues. These shows follow the same format as the podcast but are tailored for live audiences. The creators have also published novels set in the Night Vale universe, expanding on characters and stories from the podcast. Why Listen: For those who enjoy quirky, offbeat storytelling with a creepy edge.

Why Listen: For those who enjoy quirky, offbeat storytelling with a creepy edge.

7. Creepy

Creepy: A Horror Podcast is a popular podcast that specializes in bringing urban legends and creepypastas to life through immersive storytelling. Created by Jon Grilz, the podcast is known for its high-quality production and engaging narratives that draw listeners into each chilling tale.

Key Features

• Content and Style: The podcast focuses on horror stories that originate from the internet’s “creepypasta” culture, which includes user-generated horror stories shared online. These tales often explore themes of the supernatural, psychological horror, and the macabre.
• Narration and Production: Creepy features a team of narrators who bring a variety of voices and styles to the stories, ensuring each episode has a unique flavor. The podcast is noted for its minimal banter, allowing listeners to dive straight into the story. The sound design is a significant aspect of the show, with atmospheric audio that enhances the immersive experience.
• Audience and Reception: With a high rating of 4.7 based on 3.2k ratings, Creepy has garnered a loyal following among horror enthusiasts. Its ability to deliver spine-tingling narratives consistently makes it a favorite among listeners who enjoy being scared.
• Episodes: Episodes vary in length and complexity, ranging from short stories to multi-part narratives. This variety caters to different listener preferences, whether they are looking for a quick scare or a longer, more involved story.

Why Listen: Great for listeners who love the unsettling nature of online horror.

8. The Magnus Archives

Though its final season has aired, The Magnus Archives remains one of the most beloved horror podcasts on Spotify. Created by Jonathan Sims and directed by Alexander J. Newall, and produced by Rusty Quill, this critically acclaimed horror fiction podcast ran from March 24, 2016, to March 25, 2021, and consists of five seasons with a total of 200 episodes. The podcast follows Jonathan Sims, the Head Archivist of the Magnus Institute, as he records statements about paranormal events for the Institute’s archives. Initially presented as standalone scary tales, the series gradually develops a complex overarching plot involving the mysterious nature of the Institute and its head, Elias Bouchard. The interconnected storytelling and deep lore make it a binge-worthy classic.

The podcast is known for its atmospheric storytelling and intricate narrative structure. It begins with Jonathan Sims converting written statements into audio recordings, which often involve supernatural occurrences. As the series progresses, these seemingly unrelated stories intertwine to reveal a larger narrative about the Institute’s true purpose and the nature of the paranormal phenomena it investigates.

The Magnus Archives has been praised for its sound design, voice acting (easily on the level of that produced by professional voice actors), and representation of queer characters. The series has also inspired a sequel podcast titled The Magnus Protocol, which began in 2024. Fans appreciate its blend of horror and mystery, as well as its ability to maintain suspense and intrigue throughout its run.

Why Listen: For fans of serialized storytelling and intricate, long-form horror narratives.

9. Spooked

Spooked is a horror podcast presented by Snap Judgment, hosted by Glynn Washington. It focuses on true-life supernatural stories told by the people who experienced them firsthand. The podcast is designed to challenge skeptics of the supernatural and invites listeners to confront the unknown through its compelling narratives.

Key Features

• Content and Format: Each episode features personal accounts of supernatural encounters, making the stories feel intimate and authentic. The podcast combines these narratives with high-quality sound design, including original music and sound effects, to create an immersive audio experience. The stories vary widely, covering different cultures and supernatural phenomena, which adds a rich diversity to the content.
• Production: Spooked is produced in partnership with KQED and PRX, ensuring professional production standards. The podcast’s sound design is particularly noted for enhancing the eerie atmosphere of each story, using effects like ghostly knocks or demonic growls to heighten tension.
• Cultural Diversity: The podcast makes a point to include stories from various cultural backgrounds, featuring entities and folklore from places such as Montserrat, Russia, Hawai’i, Oaxaca, South Africa, and the Philippines. This diversity not only enriches the storytelling but also educates listeners about different cultural beliefs and legends.
• Release Schedule: New episodes of Spooked are released every Friday. The podcast has been running since 2017 and is currently in its seventh season, with episodes available on all major podcast platforms, including Spotify.
• Audience Engagement: Listeners are encouraged to submit their own supernatural experiences for potential inclusion in future episodes, fostering a strong community connection.

Why Listen: Paranormal enthusiasts will love these chilling firsthand accounts.

10. Campfire Radio Theater

Campfire Radio Theater is a horror podcast presented by Snap Judgment, hosted by Glynn Washington. It focuses on true-life supernatural stories told by the people who experienced them firsthand. The podcast is designed to challenge skeptics of the supernatural and invites listeners to confront the unknown through its compelling narratives.

Key Features

• Content and Format: Each episode features personal accounts of supernatural encounters, making the stories feel intimate and authentic. The podcast combines these narratives with high-quality sound design, including original music and sound effects, to create an immersive audio experience. The stories vary widely, covering different cultures and supernatural phenomena, which adds a rich diversity to the content.
• Production: Campfire Radio Theater is produced in partnership with KQED and PRX, ensuring professional production standards. The podcast’s sound design is particularly noted for enhancing the eerie atmosphere of each story, using effects like ghostly knocks or demonic growls to heighten tension.
• Cultural Diversity: The podcast makes a point to include stories from various cultural backgrounds, featuring entities and folklore from places such as Montserrat, Russia, Hawai’i, Oaxaca, South Africa, and the Philippines. This diversity not only enriches the storytelling but also educates listeners about different cultural beliefs and legends.
• Release Schedule: New episodes of Campfire Radio Theater are released every Friday. The podcast has been running since 2017 and is currently in its seventh season, with episodes available on all major podcast platforms, including Spotify.
• Audience Engagement: Listeners are encouraged to submit their own supernatural experiences for potential inclusion in future episodes, fostering a strong community connection.

Why Listen: For fans of vintage-style horror storytelling, with an immersive and culturally diverse twist.

11. Knifepoint Horror

Knifepoint Horror is a horror podcast created, written, and produced by Soren Narnia. It is known for its minimalist approach to storytelling, focusing on first-person narratives that deliver eerie and unsettling tales. The podcast has been running since November 23, 2010, and is independently produced.

Key Features

• Format and Style: Each episode of Knifepoint Horror features a standalone horror story narrated from a first-person perspective. The stories are characterized by their simplicity and lack of elaborate sound effects or music, relying instead on the power of the narrative to evoke fear. This minimalist production style enhances the intimacy and immediacy of the storytelling.
• Narration: Soren Narnia often narrates the episodes himself, bringing a consistent voice to the series. Occasionally, episodes may include additional narrators, especially when the story requires multiple perspectives.
• Content: The stories in Knifepoint Horror cover a wide range of horror themes, from supernatural encounters to psychological thrillers. The titles of the episodes are typically single words that hint at the central theme or element of the story, such as “staircase,” “laborer,” or “corpse.”
• Release Schedule: The podcast does not follow a strict release schedule; episodes are uploaded sporadically. This allows for careful crafting of each story, ensuring high-quality content.
• Reception: Knifepoint Horror has received praise for its elegant simplicity and ability to create a sense of foreboding with minimal resources. Listeners appreciate its ad-free format and the focus on pure storytelling without distractions. It is often recommended as one of the best horror podcasts for those who enjoy atmospheric and thought-provoking narratives.

Why Listen: For those who appreciate atmospheric and unsettling horror.

12. The Black Tapes

The Black Tapes is a mystery-horror podcast that presents itself as a pseudo-documentary. Created by Paul Bae and Terry Miles, it was published by Pacific Northwest Stories and ran from May 21, 2015, to November 7, 2017. The podcast is part of a series of interconnected shows within the same fictional universe, including Tanis and Rabbits.

Key Features

• Format and Storyline: The podcast follows Alex Reagan, a journalist voiced by Lori Henry, who investigates paranormal mysteries alongside Dr. Richard Strand, a skeptic played by Christian Sloan. The narrative is centered around Strand’s collection of unsolved cases known as “The Black Tapes,” which are purportedly video recordings of paranormal phenomena that Strand has yet to debunk.
• Presentation Style: The Black Tapes is known for its documentary-style presentation, which lends an air of authenticity to the fictional events it describes. This style has been compared to shows like Serial and This American Life, making listeners question whether the stories might be based on real events.
• Themes: The podcast explores themes of skepticism versus belief, the supernatural, and the unknown. It delves into various paranormal phenomena, including hauntings, demonic possessions, and mysterious audio recordings.
• Episodes and Seasons: Over its three seasons, the podcast released a total of 30 episodes. Each episode builds on the overarching narrative while also focusing on specific cases from the Black Tapes.

Why Listen: Perfect for fans of paranormal mysteries and true-crime-inspired fiction.

13. Pseudopod

Pseudopod is a long-running horror podcast that specializes in short stories within the horror genre. It is part of Escape Artists, Inc., which also produces other genre-specific podcasts like Escape Pod (science fiction), PodCastle (fantasy), and Cast of Wonders (young adult fiction). The podcast was launched on August 11, 2006, and has become a staple in the horror podcasting community.

Key Features

• Format and Content: Pseudopod releases weekly episodes featuring horror short stories, usually between 2,000 and 6,000 words in length. The podcast occasionally includes flash fiction pieces and movie reviews. Each episode is introduced by Alasdair Stuart, who provides context and commentary related to the story’s themes.
• Production Team: The podcast is co-edited by Shawn M. Garrett and Alex Hofelich, with Alasdair Stuart serving as the host. The stories are read by various narrators from the podcasting community, contributing to the diversity of voices and styles.
• Awards and Recognition: Pseudopod has been recognized for its quality storytelling and production. It won the Parsec Award for Best Speculative Fiction Magazine or Anthology Podcast in 2009 and has been a finalist multiple times for various categories. Notable stories include “My Caroline” by Matt Wallace and “Growth Spurt” by Paul Lorello.
• Creative Commons License: The podcast operates under a Creative Commons attribution non-commercial no-derivatives 3.0 license, allowing listeners to share episodes freely while respecting the rights of the original authors.
• Community Engagement: Pseudopod encourages listener support through donations and offers opportunities for authors to submit their work for consideration. The podcast maintains a strong connection with its audience by engaging with fans on social media and other platforms.

Why Listen: For variety and expertly curated horror tales.

14. Ghosts in the Burbs

Ghosts in the Burbs is a horror fiction podcast created and hosted by Liz Sower. It has been running since 2016 and is set in the affluent town of Wellesley, Massachusetts. The podcast blends elements of domestic life with supernatural horror, creating a unique narrative style that has garnered a dedicated following.

Key Features

• Format and Content: The podcast features Liz Sower as she shares stories about the residents of Wellesley and their encounters with ghosts and other supernatural entities. Each episode typically involves Liz being contacted by a local resident who has a story to tell, often involving hauntings or paranormal phenomena. The stories are fictional but presented in a way that blurs the line between reality and fiction, adding to the eerie atmosphere.
• Themes: Ghosts in the Burbs explores themes of domestic horror, where everyday suburban life intersects with the supernatural. The stories often involve elements such as haunted houses, shadow people, and otherworldly creatures, all set against the backdrop of suburban domesticity.
• Narrative Style: The podcast is known for its engaging storytelling and Liz Sower’s friendly yet suspenseful narration. Her ability to weave ordinary suburban concerns with extraordinary horror elements makes the stories relatable and unsettling.
• Cultural Impact: The podcast has become a cult favorite among listeners who enjoy horror stories with a suburban twist. It has been praised for its ability to combine humor with horror, making it both entertaining and chilling.
• Episodes and Availability: With over 150 episodes, Ghosts in the Burbs is available on various platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts. The episodes are updated monthly, providing listeners with a steady stream of new content.

Why Listen: A perfect mix of small-town charm and supernatural scares.

15. Something Scary

Something Scary is a horror podcast that delivers ghost stories, urban legends, and folktales from around the world. It originated as a YouTube animated series created by Sapphire Sandalo in 2016 and expanded into a podcast format in 2018. The podcast has gone through several hosts, with Blair Bathory currently leading the show alongside Steffany Strange.

Key Features

• Content and Themes: The podcast features a variety of horror stories that range from ghostly encounters to urban legends and supernatural mysteries. The narratives are designed to evoke fear and suspense, often blurring the lines between reality and the supernatural. Many of the stories are listener-submitted, adding an element of authenticity and personal connection.
• Hosts: Blair Bathory, a filmmaker and founder of Fear Haus, co-hosts the podcast with Steffany Strange, a psychic medium known for her storytelling on social media. Their backgrounds in horror and the supernatural bring a unique perspective to the show.
• Production Style: Something Scary is known for its engaging storytelling and atmospheric sound design. The podcast uses music and sound effects to enhance the eerie ambiance of each story. Some episodes also feature animated versions of the stories on YouTube, providing a visual complement to the audio experience.
• Release Schedule: New episodes are released weekly, offering listeners a regular dose of spine-chilling content. Each episode typically includes multiple stories, ensuring a diverse range of horror experiences.
• Audience Engagement: The podcast encourages listener participation by inviting fans to submit their own scary stories. This interaction helps build a community around shared interests in horror and the supernatural.

Why Listen: Great for bite-sized, spooky storytelling.

16. The Last Podcast on the Left

The Last Podcast on the Left is a popular comedy-horror podcast that explores a wide range of dark and often disturbing topics. Launched on March 29, 2011, the show is hosted by Marcus Parks, Henry Zebrowski, and Ed Larson (who joined in late 2023 after Ben Kissel’s departure). The podcast is known for its blend of humor and thorough research, covering subjects such as true crime, the paranormal, conspiracy theories, and historical horrors.

Key Features

• Content and Themes: The podcast delves into both real and imagined horrors, including serial killers, cults, cryptids, UFO sightings, ghosts, and the occult. Each episode typically focuses on a specific topic or case, often spanning multiple episodes for in-depth exploration. The hosts provide humorous commentary while maintaining a commitment to detailed research.
• Format: Episodes are released twice weekly: a main episode that covers a particular subject in detail and a “Side Stories” episode that discusses recent true crime news and unusual events. The main episodes can range from 30 to 150 minutes in length.
• Hosts: Marcus Parks serves as the lead researcher, bringing academic rigor to the show. Henry Zebrowski adds comedic flair with his conspiracy theories and character impersonations. Ed Larson contributes additional humor and perspective.
• Audience Engagement: The podcast has cultivated a large fan base due to its unique approach to dark topics. It has inspired live shows across the U.S. and internationally, as well as a book titled The Last Book on the Left, which was published in 2020.
• Cultural Impact: The Last Podcast on the Left has influenced the true crime genre by combining comedy with serious investigation. It won the People’s Voice Webby Award in 2017 for Podcasts & Digital Audio (Comedy) and has been featured in various media outlets.

Why Listen: For those who enjoy humor alongside their horror.

17. Alice Isn’t Dead

Alice Isn’t Dead is a serialized horror podcast created by Joseph Fink, co-creator of Welcome to Night Vale. It was produced by Night Vale Presents and ran from March 8, 2016, to August 28, 2018. The podcast is narrated by Jasika Nicole, who voices the protagonist, Keisha.

Key Features

• Plot and Structure: The story follows Keisha, a truck driver traveling across America in search of her wife, Alice, whom she previously believed to be dead. As Keisha journeys through the country, she encounters strange towns, eerie occurrences, and supernatural entities known as the “Hungry Men.” The narrative unfolds through Keisha’s audio diary entries, creating an intimate and immersive experience for listeners.
• Themes and Style: Alice Isn’t Dead blends elements of horror, mystery, and road-trip adventure. It explores themes of love, loss, anxiety, and the search for identity. The podcast is noted for its rich storytelling and vivid imagery, which evoke a sense of unease and tension throughout the series.
• Production and Sound Design: The podcast is praised for its atmospheric sound design by Disparition, which enhances the eerie mood of the story. The use of ambient sounds and music complements the narrative’s suspenseful tone.
• Reception: Alice Isn’t Dead has been well-received by critics and listeners alike. It is often lauded for its engaging narrative and unique approach to storytelling. The podcast has been described as a “gold standard” in story podcasting due to its ability to seamlessly blend gritty realism with supernatural horror.
• Cultural Impact: The podcast stands out for its representation of a queer protagonist and its exploration of complex emotional landscapes. It has been adapted into a novel by Joseph Fink, further expanding its reach beyond the audio format.

Why Listen: For fans of road-trip horror and surreal narratives.

18. Limetown

Limetown is a fictional narrative podcast that blends elements of mystery, horror, and science fiction. Created by Zack Akers and Skip Bronkie, the podcast debuted on July 29, 2015, and quickly gained popularity for its immersive storytelling and intriguing plot.

Key Features

• Plot and Structure: The story is centered around an investigative journalist named Lia Haddock, who works for “American Public Radio.” She is investigating the mysterious disappearance of over 300 people from a neuroscience research facility in Limetown, Tennessee. The incident occurred ten years prior to the events of the podcast, leaving no trace of the missing individuals. Lia’s investigation is driven by a personal connection, as her uncle was among those who vanished.
• Themes: Limetown explores themes of memory, identity, and the consequences of scientific experimentation. It raises questions about the nature of reality and the ethical implications of technological advancements. The podcast uses these themes to create a suspenseful narrative that keeps listeners engaged.
• Production Style: The podcast is known for its high production quality, featuring realistic sound design and a documentary-style format. It incorporates elements such as news clips, 911 calls, and interviews to create a believable world. This approach draws listeners into the story, making them feel like they are part of Lia’s investigation.
• Reception and Impact: Upon its release, Limetown quickly climbed the podcast charts, becoming one of the most popular fictional podcasts at the time. It was praised for its innovative storytelling and ability to create a visual experience through audio alone.
• Adaptation: The success of the podcast led to a television adaptation on Facebook Watch in 2019, starring Jessica Biel as Lia Haddock. The TV series expanded on the original narrative by exploring characters’ backstories and providing visual context to the events described in the podcast.

Why Listen: Ideal for those who enjoy a mix of sci-fi, mystery, and horror.

19. Chilling Tales for Dark Nights

Chilling Tales for Dark Nights is a horror-themed audio storytelling podcast and YouTube channel known for its high-quality, immersive productions. Created by Craig Groshek in 2012, the podcast has become a staple in the horror community, offering a platform for both new and established authors to share their stories.

Key Features

• Content and Format: The podcast features multiple horror stories per episode, each brought to life with professional voice acting, sound effects, and custom musical scores. The stories are drawn from a variety of sources, including submissions from independent authors and previously published works. This format allows for a diverse range of horror tales, from supernatural encounters to psychological thrillers.
• Production Quality: Chilling Tales for Dark Nights is renowned for its cinematic audio experience. The use of full casts and detailed sound design creates an immersive atmosphere that enhances the storytelling. This high production value sets it apart from many other podcasts in the genre.
• Community Engagement: The podcast encourages submissions from aspiring writers and holds regular writing contests to discover new talent. This approach not only fosters community involvement but also ensures a steady stream of fresh content for listeners.
• Evolution and Spin-offs: Initially part of the Simply Scary Podcast Network, it was rebranded to align with the Chilling Tales brand. It has spawned several related projects, including The Simply Scary Podcast, True & Scary Stories, and Camp Creepypasta. These spin-offs explore various aspects of horror storytelling, expanding the brand’s reach.
• Availability: Episodes can be accessed via the podcast’s website, YouTube channel, and various podcast platforms like iTunes. This wide availability makes it easy for fans to enjoy the content on their preferred devices.

Why Listen: For fans of well-produced, fictional horror anthologies.

20. Horror Hill

Horror Hill is a horror anthology podcast that delivers chilling stories designed to captivate and terrify its audience. It is a spin-off from Chilling Tales for Dark Nights, a well-known YouTube channel and podcast network. The show features a variety of horror-themed audio stories, each crafted to provide an immersive and spine-tingling experience.

Key Features

• Content and Format: Horror Hill presents multiple horror stories in each episode, showcasing the work of both new and established authors. The stories cover a wide range of horror sub-genres, including supernatural tales, psychological thrillers, and classic horror themes. Episodes typically run between one to two hours, offering listeners a substantial amount of content per installment.
• Narration and Production: Originally hosted by Jason Hill, known for his deep and engaging voice, the podcast has transitioned to Erik Peabody as the primary host since 2022. Both narrators have brought their unique styles to the show, using their voice acting skills to enhance the storytelling with atmospheric delivery and character adaptation.
• Themes: The podcast explores diverse horror themes such as demonic possessions, time travel, murder, and supernatural encounters. It aims to entertain by delivering thrills and terror, making it a favorite among horror enthusiasts who enjoy being on the edge of their seats.
• Audience Reception: Horror Hill has been praised for its high production quality and engaging narration. It has garnered positive reviews from listeners who appreciate the variety of stories and the immersive audio experience that the podcast provides.

Why Listen: Perfect for lovers of eerie, expertly narrated stories.

The Wrap-Up

So, dark listeners, if you’re into bone-chilling ghost stories, historical horrors, or deeply unsettling fiction, Spotify has a podcast for every horror enthusiast out there. These 20 best horror podcasts on Spotify will keep you entertained, scared, and coming back for more. Now go grab your headphones, turn off the lights, and prepare to be terrified.

What’s your favorite horror podcast? Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to share this list with fellow horror fans looking for their next fix.