In an ever-evolving media landscape, staying informed, inspired, and connected is essential for any journalist. Podcasts are one of the best ways to sharpen your reporting skills, learn from industry leaders, and discover new perspectives, all while on the move.
Here are 5 must-listen podcasts for journalists in 2025, in English and Spanish, handpicked for their depth, relevance, and journalistic value.
Language: English
Focus: Investigative journalism
Hosted by award-winning journalist Maeve McClenaghan, The Tip Off takes listeners behind the scenes of some of the most impactful investigative stories. Learn how journalists follow leads, verify facts, and navigate legal and ethical challenges.
🔎 Why listen: A must for investigative reporters, data journalists, or anyone interested in how tough stories come to life.
Language: Spanish
Focus: Latin American current affairs
Produced by Radio Ambulante Studios, El Hilo delivers sharp, context-driven coverage of key news stories in Latin America. Each episode offers in-depth reporting and interviews that go beyond headlines.
🔎 Why listen: Essential for journalists covering the region or anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Latin American issues.
Language: English
Focus: Media analysis, politics, and misinformation
This long-running podcast from WNYC Studios critically examines how the media works and how narratives shape public opinion. Topics include press freedom, propaganda, and the ethics of reporting in polarized societies.
🔎 Why listen: Perfect for media critics, journalism students, and reporters reflecting on the role of the press in democracy.
Language: Spanish
Focus: Narrative storytelling and human rights
Las Raras is a Chilean independent podcast that blends investigative reporting with rich sound design to tell stories of resistance and social justice. Their powerful storytelling makes it a standout in the Spanish-speaking podcast world.
🔎 Why listen: Ideal for audio storytellers, freelance journalists, and those interested in human rights reporting.
Language: English
Focus: Narrative journalism and interviews with top reporters
This weekly podcast features in-depth conversations with some of the best writers in journalism, including contributors to The New Yorker, The Atlantic, and ProPublica. They share insights on pitching, writing, and surviving in the industry.
🔎 Why listen: A go-to for feature writers, narrative journalists, and anyone who wants to refine their storytelling craft.
💬 Got a podcast recommendation?
At Free Press Alliance, we believe in building a global community of journalists to help each other grow. If you know a podcast that should be on this list, get in touch with us and let’s expand this resource together.