10 Podcasts to Elevate Your Intelligence in 2025

If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime, and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Hosted by the engaging duo Josh and Chuck, "Stuff You Should Know" offers a delightful exploration into a diverse range of topics, providing listeners with insights that will surely spark conversation and contemplation. With an average rating of 4.5, this engaging podcast continues to be a favorite among curious minds. Listen now.

Have you ever pondered the intricacies of your own mind? "Hidden Brain," hosted by veteran science journalist Shankar Vedantam, seeks to unravel the mysteries behind our thoughts and actions. Routinely rated the #1 science podcast in the United States, it addresses questions like, "Why do I feel stuck?" and "How can I improve my relationships?" With an average rating of 4.5, this podcast is not only enlightening but also richly relatable. Dive into understanding the minds around you here.

"Radiolab" is an exploration of curiosity embodied. This podcast features innovative sound design and investigative journalism, asking profound questions to spark thought and discussion. Hosted by Lulu Miller and Latif Nasser, each episode takes listeners on a journey through science, history, and personal narratives, bringing forth an average rating of 4.5. For those who cherish intellectual exploration, this is a must-listen. Check it out.

Join Stephen J. Dubner, co-author of Freakonomics, as he uncovers the hidden sides of everyday decisions. This podcast tackles everything from the safety of flying versus driving to the media's portrayal of news events. With an average rating of 4.5, "Freakonomics Radio" stimulates curiosity about the economy and human behavior. For those looking to delve deeper into these alluring mysteries, tune in here.

With the world’s greatest thinkers at your fingertips, the "TED Radio Hour" delves into the biggest questions of our time, sparking inspiration and introspection. Hosted by Manoush Zomorodi, this podcast encourages listeners to learn about themselves and their communities through powerful storytelling. The average rating stands at 4.5, making it a beacon of knowledge. For a dose of intellect, listen here.

In an era rife with misinformation, "Science Vs," from Gimlet, delineates what is fact and what is fiction. This podcast dives through various topics—from 5G technology to fasting diets—allowing listeners to develop a well-informed perspective on contemporary issues. With an average rating of 4.5, this engaging show provides clarity amid complexity. Join the conversation here.

Tim Ferriss, a renowned author and self-experimenter, hosts "The Tim Ferriss Show," where he dissects the habits of world-class performers across various fields. Listeners can uncover valuable tools and tactics that can be applied to their own lives. With an impressive average rating of 4.5, this podcast is a rich resource for personal growth. Start your journey with Tim here.

Hosted by Malcolm Gladwell, "Revisionist History" revisits overlooked and misunderstood narratives from the past. Each episode takes a fresh look at significant events, people, and ideas, questioning whether they were interpreted correctly. With an average rating of 4.5, this podcast offers a unique perspective on historical narratives. Experience the thought-provoking content here.

Delve into the quirky office of the BBC's QI, where the writers of the series "No Such Thing As A Fish" share the intriguing facts that have caught their attention each week. Hosted by the entertaining Dan Schreiber and his fellow writers, the podcast boasts an average rating of 4.5, ensuring laughter and learning in every episode. Don’t miss out, tune in here.

"Planet Money" makes economics interesting and relatable. The podcast explores widespread economic forces in daily life and teaches listeners how to tie various topics back to the economy. With its engaging storytelling and an average rating of 4.5, it transforms abstract concepts into something tangible. Join the ride by listening here.