Table of Contents
Podcasts have become a popular way to explore history, offering engaging stories and expert insights that make the past come alive. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about the world, there’s a podcast out there for you. Here’s a guide to some of the best history podcasts you can listen to in 2025.
1. The Rest Is History
Hosted by historians Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland, The Rest Is History covers a wide range of historical events and figures, from ancient civilizations to modern-day history. The duo brings history to life with insightful commentary, often laced with humor, making complex topics accessible and engaging. Their unique ability to blend detailed research with lighthearted discussions ensures that listeners remain interested and entertained. Whether discussing the fall of the Roman Empire or the effects of the French Revolution, this podcast offers a rich understanding of history while keeping things fun and approachable.
2. Hardcore History
Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History is an epic exploration of some of the most pivotal moments in history. Known for his deep, dramatic storytelling, Carlin dives into massive historical events like World War I, the rise and fall of ancient civilizations, and much more. Each episode is often several hours long, providing in-depth analysis that is almost cinematic in nature. Carlin’s passionate voice and the gripping narratives he weaves make Hardcore History a captivating podcast for those interested in detailed, immersive history. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys long-form storytelling that captures the emotional weight of past events.
3. Throughline
Throughline, produced by NPR, is a podcast that connects past events to current issues, helping listeners understand how history continues to shape today’s world. Hosts Rund Abdelfatah and Ramtin Arablouei focus on exploring historical events and their lasting impacts on modern-day politics, culture, and social movements. By highlighting issues such as racism, civil rights struggles, and political movements, Throughline encourages listeners to think critically about how historical events echo through time. With well-researched episodes and engaging storytelling, this podcast offers valuable insights into the complex relationship between the past and the present.
4. Lore
If you’re drawn to the darker side of history, Lore is the podcast for you. Hosted by Aaron Mahnke, this series discuss into strange and spooky tales from the past, including folklore, legends, and eerie true stories. Each episode is crafted like a suspenseful campfire story, taking you on a journey into the myths, mysteries, and horrors that shaped human history. Lore doesn’t just focus on supernatural tales but explores how our fears, beliefs, and superstitions have influenced history and culture. It’s an engrossing blend of history and the macabre, making it perfect for mystery lovers.
5. The History Chicks
The History Chicks is a podcast dedicated to telling the stories of influential women throughout history. Hosts Beckett Graham and Susan Vollenweider bring to life the achievements and struggles of well-known women like Cleopatra and Amelia Earhart, as well as lesser-known figures who made significant contributions to society. The podcast is meticulously researched, and the hosts make sure to highlight the impact these women had in their respective eras. The History Chicks is an inspiring and educational podcast for anyone interested in the vital role women have played in shaping history, offering a refreshing perspective on the past.
6. Empire
Empire, hosted by historians William Dalrymple and Anita Anand, explores the rise and fall of global empires. The podcast tells captivating stories about imperialism, with a special focus on the British Empire’s influence on various countries, such as India. Dalrymple and Anand present historical events through a personal and intimate lens, showing how empires were built, expanded, and eventually crumbled. The podcast combines grand historical narratives with smaller personal stories, making it easier for listeners to connect with the impact of empire-building on real lives. Empire offers both grand historical analysis and human stories of power, conquest, and loss.
7. 1619
The 1619 podcast, produced by The New York Times, focuses on the deep and lasting effects of slavery in America. Hosted by Nikole Hannah-Jones, this podcast explores how the legacy of slavery continues to shape American society, politics, and culture. 1619 goes beyond the historical facts, providing a powerful examination of how slavery impacted areas like education, music, and the economy. The podcast aims to unpack the systemic racism that has evolved over centuries, offering emotional and thought-provoking narratives that encourage listeners to confront uncomfortable truths about America’s past and its ongoing struggles with inequality.
8. The Memory Palace
Nate DiMeo’s The Memory Palace is a short-form podcast that tells beautiful and often overlooked stories from history. Each episode is a poetic narrative focusing on small moments or forgotten figures that might not make it into mainstream history books. DiMeo’s storytelling style is calm and reflective, making the podcast feel more like a personal meditation on history rather than a lecture. The Memory Palace encourages listeners to appreciate the lesser-known stories that help shape the broader historical landscape. Its unique format and serene tone make it an ideal listen for those who enjoy thoughtful, subtle historical storytelling.
9. The Stardust Tragedy
The Stardust Tragedy recounts the devastating 1981 nightclub fire in Dublin, which killed 48 people. This emotionally charged podcast doesn’t just tell the story of the disaster itself but also the pain, loss, and years-long fight for justice by the victims’ families. It discuss deeply into the aftermath, focusing on the failure of the investigation and the efforts to uncover the truth. The podcast is an empathetic and respectful examination of a tragedy that shaped Irish society and the families involved. It’s a gripping listen for those who are interested in real-life stories of loss and justice.
10. Invisible Hands
Invisible Hands, hosted by David Dimbleby, explores the rise of free-market economics in post-war Britain. Through personal reflections and interviews with key figures, Dimbleby brings to light the transformation of British society as it embraced a capitalist economic system. The podcast highlights how political leaders, economic theories, and societal changes shaped modern Britain’s economy. Invisible Hands takes a reflective and often critical view of the free market, examining its social and political consequences. It’s an insightful podcast for anyone interested in the intersection of economics, politics, and the stories of real people caught in the change.
11. Stuff You Missed in History Class
Stuff You Missed in History Class is the perfect podcast for curious listeners who want to uncover lesser-known stories from the past. Hosts Holly Frey and Tracy V. Wilson dive into quirky historical facts, forgotten figures, and surprising events that didn’t make it into the history books. They cover a wide range of topics, from unusual discoveries to obscure moments that shaped the world. The podcast is accessible and entertaining, making it ideal for anyone who enjoys learning about history in a fun and informal way. It’s a lighthearted approach to uncovering the hidden gems of history.
12. Slow Burn
Slow Burn takes a detailed look at major political scandals, diving into the complexities of events like the Watergate scandal and Bill Clinton’s impeachment. Hosted by Leon Neyfakh, the podcast offers a fresh perspective on these well-known stories, exploring the individuals involved, the decisions made, and the lasting consequences. With its deep dive into political history, Slow Burn provides listeners with new insights into the events that shaped American politics. The podcast is meticulously researched and provides a gripping narrative that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats as they uncover the secrets behind these major political dramas.
13. You Must Remember This
You Must Remember This, hosted by Karina Longworth, is a podcast dedicated to the hidden history of Hollywood’s golden age. Longworth uncovers the secrets, scandals, and untold stories behind the stars, studios, and films that shaped the early years of cinema. From the lives of famous actors to the dark side of Hollywood, the podcast reveals how fame and power worked in the entertainment industry. You Must Remember This is a must-listen for anyone interested in the glamour and gossip of Old Hollywood, as well as the cultural impact of early cinema on American society.
14. You’re Dead to Me
You’re Dead to Me is a unique podcast that combines history with humor. Each episode features a historian and a comedian discussing a historical topic, offering both factual information and comedic commentary. The format makes learning about history fun and engaging, as the comedian adds a humorous twist to the discussion. From medieval kings to scientific discoveries, You’re Dead to Me takes a lighthearted approach to the past. It’s the perfect choice for listeners who want to laugh while learning about the people, events, and ideas that shaped our world.
15. Revolutions
Revolutions, hosted by Mike Duncan, covers major revolutions in history, including the American Revolution, the French Revolution, and others that drastically changed governments and societies. Each season of the podcast focuses on one revolution, exploring its causes, key events, and long-term consequences. Duncan’s storytelling is both detailed and accessible, making complex historical topics easy to understand. Revolutions provides a deep dive into the moments that reshaped the world, offering insights into the struggles for freedom and the fight for change throughout history. It’s a fascinating listen for anyone interested in transformative historical events.
Conclusion
History doesn’t have to be dry or boring it can be exciting, emotional, and even funny when told the right way. These history podcasts offer something for everyone, whether you’re into political events, ancient empires, forgotten heroes, or spooky legends. With expert hosts and rich storytelling, they make it easy to learn while you’re walking, commuting, or relaxing at home. In 2025, there’s no better time to press play and let history come alive in your ears.
