Apple helped usher the podcast format into existence, and every year it releases a list ranking the best ones.
This year’s list includes Malcolm Gladwell, a retired Navy SEAL, and shows about mystery and murder. In its list, Apple said true-crime shows, politics, and radio dramas were particularly hot in 2016.
Here are the top 12 podcasts Apple said were the best in 2016, along with the company’s comment:
“Revisionist History”
Apple’s comment: “No one turns history on its head like Malcolm Gladwell. We love his provocative take on everything from satire to Wilt Chamberlain.”
“How I Built This”
Apple’s comment: “We were incredibly inspired by hearing the founders of Spanx, Instagram, and other startups explain how they made it big.”
"In the Dark"
Apple's comment: "This year's huge breakthrough in the Jacob Wetterling abduction case fueled a fascinating look at why it went unsolved for decades."
"Jocko Podcast"
Apple's comment: "Leadership, fitness, military history - retired Navy SEAL Jocko and his guests turn any topic into a riveting life lesson."
"Anna Faris is Unqualified"
Apple's comment: "Anna and her pal Sim have so much fun hanging out and chatting with celebrity friends, we can't resist joining in."
"NPR Politics Podcast"
Apple's comment: "With their awesome insights and discussion, NPR's political team kept us up to speed on a truly unpredictable election."
"My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark"
Apple's comment: "After one episode, we adored this show like its hosts adore twisted tales and catchphrases. Their gabfests are always entertaining."
"2 Dope Queens"
Apple's comment: "We'll crash this party anytime. Jessica, Phoebe, and their hilarious guests bring enough energy and fearlessness for 10 podcasts."
"Accused"
Apple's comment: "Powerful and thought-provoking, the story of Elizabeth Andes' unsolved murder stuck with us long after the final episode."
"FiveThirtyEight Podcast"
Apple's comment: "For the kind of deep political analysis that goes state by state and stat by stat, we love listening to Nate Silver and crew."
"Heavyweight"
Apple's comment: "Jonathan Goldstein's clever look at people's hidden burdens (their "heavyweight") is as captivating as it is moving."
"Pardon My Take"
Apple's comment: "The hosts' call-it-like-they-see-it sports talk made PMT our perfect companion through the Olympics, the World Series, and more."
