The Big Winner: 'Good Hang with Amy Poehler'
Taking home the prize for Best Comedy Podcast at the 2026 iHeartPodcast Awards, 'Good Hang with Amy Poehler' has cemented itself as a must-listen. The show's premise is delightfully simple: Poehler, a comedy icon, has unstructured, free-wheeling conversations
with friends, fellow comedians, and other interesting people. There’s no heavy-handed theme, just genuine curiosity and the kind of organic humor that can only come from authentic connection. It’s the audio equivalent of being a fly on the wall at the most interesting and hilarious dinner party you can imagine. If you love comedy that feels spontaneous and warm, this is the perfect addition to your library.
For Fans of Friendly Banter: 'The Basement Yard'
If you prefer your laughs to come from the lightning-in-a-bottle chemistry of lifelong friends, look no further than 'The Basement Yard'. Hosted by Joe Santagato and Frank Alvarez, this show won for Best Overall Ensemble, and it’s easy to see why. The two have been friends since childhood, and their podcast is a testament to that bond. They tackle everything from ridiculous hypotheticals to absurd news stories and personal anecdotes with an infectious energy. It’s a show built on the simple joy of making your friend laugh. Tune in for a reliable dose of silly, unpretentious fun that feels like hanging out with your funniest buddies.
The Pop Culture Obsessives: 'Giggly Squad'
While not strictly a comedy category winner, 'Giggly Squad' walked away with the coveted, fan-voted Podcast of the Year award. Hosted by Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo, the show is a hilarious deep dive into pop culture, fashion, and the absurdities of modern life. Their chemistry is undeniable, and they’ve built a massive community around their witty takes and relatable stories. They dissect everything from reality TV drama to dating woes with a tone that’s both sharp and self-aware. If you want to laugh while staying on the pulse of what everyone’s talking about, 'Giggly Squad' is your perfect match.
The Interview Aficionado's Choice: 'Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend'
No list of top-tier comedy podcasts would be complete without 'Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend'. While it didn't snag the top comedy prize at the 2026 iHeart ceremony, it's a perennial awards favorite for a reason, having won in previous years and at other major awards shows. The premise is gold: after decades in late-night TV, Conan sets out to make genuine friends with his celebrity guests. The result is some of the most insightful and deeply funny long-form interviews available. Conan’s wit, paired with his genuine desire to connect, elevates the format beyond a simple Q&A into something special. It’s smart, playful, and consistently hilarious.
The Improv Enthusiast's Pick: 'Handsome'
Nominated for Best Comedy, 'Handsome' is a masterclass in improv-based humor. The show features comedians Tig Notaro, Fortune Feimster, and Mae Martin. Each week, they tackle a single topic, but the joy is in the journey. The conversation veers into wonderfully unexpected territory, full of personal stories, riffs, and the kind of effortless banter that only seasoned comics can deliver. It’s a show for those who appreciate the craft of comedy and enjoy a listen that feels completely unscripted and alive. The hosts' rapport makes you feel like you're part of an inside joke you’ll never want to end.
