The People's Choice: Podcast of the Year
Start with the big winner: "Giggly Squad." Hosted by friends Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo, this show took home the coveted fan-voted Podcast of the Year award for a reason. It’s a hilarious, unfiltered chat about pop culture, relationships, and navigating
life. If you want to feel like you’re eavesdropping on your two funniest friends, this is the perfect place to start. Their chemistry is infectious, making any drive or train ride feel shorter and much more entertaining.
For a Guaranteed Laugh: Best Comedy
Every commute needs a dose of humor, and the winner for Best Comedy delivers just that. "Good Hang with Amy Poehler" is your ticket to a better mood. The celebrated comedian and actress brings her signature wit to conversations with interesting people, making for an uplifting and consistently funny listen. Poehler accepted the award via video message, promising more great episodes to come. It’s a reliable choice for anyone looking to add more laughter to their daily routine.
For the Armchair Detective: Best Crime
If you prefer suspense over silliness, the Best Crime category has you covered. This year's winner, "Wisecrack," offers a smart and compelling take on the genre. While many true crime podcasts focus on the grim details, this one stands out for its thoughtful approach to storytelling, balancing the darkness with sharp analysis. The team behind the show noted it was a 10-year journey to bring it to life, a passion that is evident in its quality. It's perfect for listeners who crave a mystery that makes them think.
For Brain Food: Best Business & Finance
Use your commute to get inspired with the Best Business & Finance winner, "The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett." This isn't a dry lecture on market trends. Instead, Bartlett sits down for deeply personal and insightful interviews with some of the world's most influential entrepreneurs, artists, and thinkers. The podcast excels at uncovering the human stories and hard-learned lessons behind incredible success stories, offering valuable takeaways for your own life and career.
To Stay Informed: Best News
Staying current doesn't have to be a chore. "The MeidasTouch Podcast" secured the award for Best News by offering a passionate and distinct perspective on today's political landscape. Hosted by brothers Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas, the show uses a legal-focused approach to break down complex topics. During their acceptance, they gave a shout-out to podcasts that have the courage to call out injustice, a mission that clearly resonates with their large and growing audience.
For the Culture Vulture: Best Pop Culture
If you live and breathe pop culture, turn to the show that won the category: "Call Her Daddy." Hosted by Alex Cooper, this podcast has evolved into a powerhouse platform for candid, news-making interviews with A-list celebrities and cultural figures. It's the go-to source for conversations that often dominate the zeitgeist for days. Whether dissecting celebrity drama or discussing broader social trends, it’s an essential listen for anyone who wants to be in on the conversation.
The One to Watch: Best Emerging Podcast
Looking to get ahead of the curve? Add the Best Emerging podcast to your list. "Smart Girl Dumb Questions with Nayeema Raza" took home the prize for its fresh and engaging format. The show is built on a simple but brilliant premise that leads to insightful and often surprising conversations. By championing new voices, the iHeartPodcast Awards provides a great signpost for what’s next in audio, and this podcast is a perfect example of an up-and-coming must-listen.
