True Crime Podcasts for Kids, Tweens, and Teens

True crime is one of the most popular podcast genres. With hundreds of options out there, it can be hard to figure out what's worth listening to, as well as which ones you feel are appropriate for your child. We've put together a list of some of the best, most unique, and diverse true crime—and true crime-like—podcasts out there. You'll find something for kids of all ages and interests. For the younger crew, there are fun parody court shows, exciting detective whodunits, and lighthearted audio mysteries. For tweens and teens who are ready for more traditional true-crime shows, there are real-life crime investigations, ranging from less gruesome criminal activities to documentaries of unsolved murders. Adults may find some familiar titles they want to listen to with their high schooler, especially since there aren't graphic images to accompany some of the more intense stories. Either way, it's best to make sure you know what your child can handle before pressing play on these thrilling—and sometimes chilling—podcasts.

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PODCAST

Crime Origins: A Hero Hotel Investigation

age 5+

Silly mystery pod looks at villain origins; light on plot.

Production company: Pinna (Average run time: 7 minutes)
Food Crimes poster
PODCAST

Food Crimes

age 5+

Food-centered parody court show teaches conflict resolution.

Production company: Pinna (Average run time: 20 minutes)
The Unexplainable Disappearance of Mars Patel Podcast Cover
PODCAST

The Unexplainable Disappearance of Mars Patel

age 8+

Mystery series offers adventure and learning; light peril.

Production company: Gen-Z Media (Average run time: 17 minutes)
a girl with red hair smiling in front of three monsters, one wearing a suit, one flying, and one wearing a black judge's robeAn animated picture of
PODCAST

Defenders of Monstrovia

age 8+

Mystery meets kid-friendly court pod; slightly spooky.

Production company: GoKidGo (Average run time: 17 minutes)
An illustrated picture of Elizabeth Holmes is behind the large text: "THE DROPOUT Elizabeth Holmes on Trial"
PODCAST

The Dropout

age 13+

True crime pod follows fraud trial; some abuse described.

Production company: ABC News (Average run time: 40 minutes)
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PODCAST

Scamanda

age 14+

Lies, manipulation, and deceit in shocking true crime pod.

Production company: Lionsgate Sound (Average run time: 45 minutes)
Serial podcast logo, bold letter S above serial
PODCAST

Serial

age 14+

Award-winning investigative pod, some graphic descriptions.

Production company: Serial Productions (Average run time: 35 minutes)
The words "Unsolved mysteries" set against a glowing blue light.
PODCAST

Unsolved Mysteries

age 14+

True crime meets paranormal mysteries; violent descriptions.

Production company: Cosgrove Meurer Productions, Inc. , Cadence13 (Average run time: 30 minutes)
TEENS INVESTIGATE CRIME
PODCAST

Teen Girls Investigate Crime

age 16+

Teen friends dissect true crime stories; graphic content.

Production company: Independent (Average run time: 32 minutes)
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PODCAST

Cases of Color

age 16+

Unsolved cases involving victims of color; graphic violence.

Production company: Independent (Average run time: 34 minutes)