Over the course of the past decade, and specifically post-COVID, Podcasts have skyrocketed as a prime sector of media consumption, now pushing through as a simply unmissable part of modern culture. Whether via water-cooler conversations in the office, or Friday night discussions with social groups around the table in a bar, Podcasts are THE trending topic in 2025, with growth in the U.S alone shooting from 46 to 158 million monthly listeners since 2015 (582 million now, worldwide). Whilst stats show that average monthly listening time has also soared from 170 hours to 773 within the same decade. So with this in mind, which Podcasts are the most UNMISSABLE of the current moment?
These are, CULTR’s 10 Podcasts you simply HAVE to be listening to…
THE DIARY OF A CEO
Arguably the most famous podcast on the globe, Steven Bartlett‘s long-form conversations with a vast array of the world’s biggest names have garnered widespread acclaim for their depth, emotional sensitivity, insight, and wisdom. With tears-a-plenty, and valuable life lessons shared on the mic, the likes of Russell Brand, Gary Neville, Mo Gawdat, Jimmy Carr, and Simon Cowell have all bared their soul in the studio through the Diary of a CEO.
MODERN WISDOM
Hosted by Chris Williamson, this much-loved podcast centres around themes of psychology and philosophy on a range of life subjects, doubling up as a form of self-help and a vital learning tool for listeners. Rated 4.7 on Apple Podcasts, the show – which has previously featured the likes of Jordan Peterson as a guest – is a consistent entry in the Top 10 of the Podcast charts.
THE REST IS FOOTBALL
The Rest Is Football is the brainchild of British broadcasting legend, Gary Lineker, who raised a few eyebrows this year when announcing his departure after 26 years as the lead presenter of BBC‘s ‘Match of the Day‘. Now, Gary is free to discuss topics from the world of sport in a more relaxed tone, alongside Micah Richards, and the Premier League‘s all-time top goalscorer, Alan Shearer, whose regular F-bombs bring a comedic touch to proceedings.
SH**GED, MARRIED, ANNOYED
A light-hearted offering compared to many of the deeper conversations had within the list, comes from the jovial banter of married couple, Chris and Rosie Ramsey. The only way the pair can have a conversation without being interrupted by a toddler is by doing a podcast, in a relatable series which touches on a range of mundane life issues such as flat-pack furniture debacles and hangovers from hell.
TALK 90s TO ME
Inspired by the recent Oasis reunion, ‘Talk 90s To Me‘ sees award-winning Observer journalist and Smash Hits graduate Miranda Sawyer meets the people who were really there for the decade of Cool Britannia, touching on the likes of Kate Moss, Alcopops, Transpotting, and of course, the unrivalled swagger of Liam Gallagher.
THE LOUIS THEROUX PODCAST
Everybody’s favourite Uncle/journalist is back, with an extension of the same kind of chats which allowed him to becoming a broadcasting legend. Blessed with his usual dry wit and unrivalled sarcasm, Louis embarks on a series of freewheeling conversations with the likes of Ed Sheeran, Mia Khalifa, and Nick Kyrgios. The only question is, why didn’t they call it ‘Gotta Get Theroux This‘?
WE NEED TO TALK
Paul C Brunson of ‘Married At First Sight‘ fame (don’t pretend you don’t watch it, we all secretly do), is back, with his unique take on relationships, matchmaking, and providing safe and supportive spaces to allow insightful conversations to flourish. The acclaim counsellor has been widely praised for tackling tough topics, such as his recent episode on what young boys are learning from the internet.
TED TALKS DAILY
By now, you’ll all be familiar with TED Talks, the YouTube channel offering influential videos from expert speakers on education, business, science, tech and creativity, with subtitles in 100+ languages. Snipping up these long-form conversations and presentations into audio-only format, (perfect for commuting), TED Talks Daily brings a snack-sized slice of the concept to your daily listening habits.
ON PURPOSE
Focusing on personal growth, wellbeing, mental health and the reasoning behind living a purposeful life, former-monk turned motivational speaker Jay Shetty hosts ‘On Purpose’, inspiring listeners to become happier and healthier. Sharing conversations designed to help subscribers grow their mindset, the Podcast’s main goal is to help listeners navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and wisdom.
THE RICKY GERVAIS SHOW
Arguably, the pioneer of all modern podcasts, Ricky Gervais’ early recordings from his XFM Radio show stretch all the way back to 2001, with the podcast series itself birthing in 2005. An instant hit, which gave the world the gift of Karl Pilkington, the series is still one of the most-listened to a full 20 years later, on account of Karl‘s mad-cap ramblings, and Ricky‘s infectious laugh. For a fully feel-good and raucous listening experience, few can compete with this O.G, which was later adapted into a hit animated series on Channel 4.
Do you agree with our selections? Wanna shout out those hidden gem Podcasts you think we might have missed? Why not head over to our CULTR Instagram page to start the debate!