From late-night brainstorms to caffeine-fueled production sprints, the podcasting world never sleeps — and neither do its creators. That’s why we launched the Quill Podcast Awards back in 2021: to celebrate and recognize the voices making waves in audio.

Now in our fourth year, we’re proud to announce the 2025 Quill Podcast Award finalists — a curated list of the top 3 contenders across 14 categories. Selected from two rounds of public voting, these are the podcasts that’ve inspired, entertained, educated, and pushed the industry forward. 

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Podcast of the Year

Well, I Laughed

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Show description:

Semi-educational and organically funny, Well, I Laughed is a podcast for listeners who find themselves in search of a good laugh and their next strange story to tell at parties. Each week, one of our hosts shares what they have learned on topics ranging from the Unabomber to Frankenstein. Join Grant, a public school teacher, and Maia, an engineer, as they find the humor in the mundane. Well, I Laughed, and we think you will too. New episodes every Wednesday.

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Business Development Podcast

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Show description:

Welcome to The Business Development Podcast, hosted by Kelly Kennedy—award-winning business development expert, executive coach, founder of Capital Business Development, and proudly known as a Hope Dealer for those leading from the front. Kelly didn’t set out to build the world’s leading business development resource. He just started sharing what he’d learned from 15+ years in the trenches. 220+ episodes later, with listeners in 145+ countries, this podcast became the global standard for mastering real-world business development. Each week, you'll get no-fluff strategy, hard-earned insight, and real conversations with top founders, CEOs, and builders. From personal branding to partnership building, from deal flow to leadership—this is where you sharpen the skills they never taught you. If business development chose you—this is the show built for you.

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National Treasure Hunt

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Show description: 

National Treasure Hunt is the biweekly podcast taking an ocular device to the National Treasure film franchise. Hosted by Aubrey Paris and Emily Black. Tune in for new episodes released on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Soundcloud every other Wednesday, and join the hunt on Twitter and Instagram using @NTHuntPodcast!

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Best New Podcast

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Love Needs No Words

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Show description:

A Podcast covering the highs and lows of parenting a child with Special Educational needs.

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Ready Set Do

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Show description:

Learn relatably from featured NOT-experts, from diverse genres of life, currently just two steps ahead in your journey of choice; brought to you by Ready Set Do.

Learning from someone who is just two steps ahead of you is often exponentially more actionable and relatable than learning from an expert. The advice you get is so much more relevant and right-sized. We discuss strategies and tools employed by people just like you to overcome extraordinary odds, achieve their goals, or simply become a better version of themselves.

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Executive Wins

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Show description:
The Executive Wins Podcast helps senior leaders get more wins in business and life. Each week accomplished Executives share rich stories about their biggest wins including improving profitability, streamlining processes, communicating more effectively with their teams, innovating and more. The show is hosted by Gordon Sheppard, an experienced Executive Coach, Business Advisor and Podcaster. Gord bases each interview on a proven 5-part framework called the Anatomy of a Win, which means that you will learn the important details about the Strategy, Work Plan, People, Operations and Results that went into each win. The result? Each episode is Masterclass in real business achievements that you can learn from so you can grow your leadership skills and your business!

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Branded Podcast of the Year

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A Fresh Story

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Show description:

A Fresh Story Podcast is a top 2% personal journals podcast, hosted by sisters Olivia Dreizen Howell and Jenny Dreizen, that delves into courageous life choices, creative concepts, and fresh start stories through candid conversations. The podcast explores cultural subjects often overlooked, offering listeners a fresh perspective on various life experiences. Join the sisters and guests on a journey discussing bravery, significant decisions, and fresh starts, navigating the complexities of the human experience.

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The Pineapple Perspective

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Show description:

What would you say if we told you that every business is in the hospitality business?

Join Troy Hooper, CEO of Hot Palette America, as he explores what hospitality means in every business with industry leaders. Troy and his guests will tackle how they came to deploy hospitality in their businesses, how it impacts their results, and how they came to understand, adopt, and deploy this mindset and framework. Leveraging Troy’s experience, insight, and straight talk, listeners will walk away with a plan of action that’s right for them.

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Just Good Business 

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Show description:

An award-winning monthly podcast with a focus on helping Canadian entrepreneurs and small business owners navigate the ever-changing business landscape. The podcast delivers interviews with business leaders and industry experts offering advice and commentary on current events and business trends, with a focus on informing and educating Canadian businesses.

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Best B2C Branded Podcast

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Invent: Life Sciences

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Show description:

What are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the life sciences sector? How can we overcome these challenges while unlocking the opportunities? Join host Stuart Lowe and a roster of expert guests as they unpack the past, present and future of cell and gene therapy.

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Exness: Born to Trade

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Show description:

Born To Trade is a podcast that delves into the age-old debate of whether traders are born or made. Hosted by Nima Siar, Head of Partner Communications at exness, the show features in-depth discussions with ETP Ambassadors like Kojo Forex and Dennis Okari.  Each episode explores personal trading journeys, the role of innate abilities versus education and experience, and provides valuable takeaways for both novice and experienced traders.  The podcast aims to spark engaging debates within the trading community, offering a blend of short personal anecdotes to humanize the podcast, expert insights, and practical advice.

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Everything Lifestyle

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Show description:

The "Everything Lifestyle" podcast series is perfect for anyone who wants to stay up-to-date on the latest health trends and learn practical tips for improving their physical and mental health. Whether you're a health enthusiast, fitness buff, or just looking to make some positive changes in your life, this podcast series has something for everyone. So, tune in and start your journey towards optimal health and wellness today so that instead of just surviving, you’re thriving.

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Best B2B Branded Podcast

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Yes, We Are Open

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Show description:

Yes, We Are Open tells the inspiring stories of Canadian small business owners who have faced challenges, adapted, and found success. Hosted by Al Grego, the show takes listeners on a journey across Canada, uncovering the resilience, innovation, and passion that keep local business thriving.

From family-run shops to cutting-edge start-ups, each episode dives into the struggles and triumphs of entrepreneurs who refuse to give up. Whether you're a business owner, aspiring entrepreneur or just love a good success story, 'Yes, We Are Open' is your go-to podcast for motivation and insight in to the heart of Canada's small business community.

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CharityVillage Connects

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Show description:

Welcome to CharityVillage Connects – a series that highlights topics vital to the nonprofit sector in Canada. CharityVillage is a resource to over 170,000 charitable and nonprofit organizations in Canada. This series, hosted by President Mary Barroll, will provide in-depth conversations with experts in the nonprofit sector. We’ll examine diversity, equity and inclusion, innovations in fundraising, the gap in female representation in leadership and many other subjects crucial to the growth and development of charities throughout Canada.

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Invent: Life Sciences

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Show description:

What are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the life sciences sector? How can we overcome these challenges while unlocking the opportunities? Join host Stuart Lowe and a roster of expert guests as they unpack the past, present and future of cell and gene therapy.

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Most Creative Branded Podcast

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What's the big Idea?

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Show description:

"What's the Big Idea" is a new podcast featuring University of Manitoba President and Vice-Chancellor Michael Benarroch in conversation with some of today's big thinkers. Together, they’ll unpack “the big idea” their work explores. A series featuring an exciting and diverse array of voices from the UM community contributing to the cultural, social, and economic well-being of the people of Manitoba, Canada, and the world.

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Between Classes by QIA

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Show description:

Welcome to Between Classes by QIA. On this podcast, learners play hosts, engaging in enlightening discussions, heartwarming interviews, and thought-provoking conversations that reel in the youth and elders through their contemporary nature. Get ready to be inspired and entertained. Between Classes by QIA is your dose of education, empowerment, and enthusiasm. Whether you're a curious learner, a dedicated teacher, or a loving parent, this podcast is your invitation to connect, learn, and share in the joy of knowledge.

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Jenny Says So

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Show description:

Welcome to Jenny Says So—the podcast where modern etiquette meets real life. I’m Jenny, a modern-day etiquette expert, former wedding officiant & professional, and co-founder of the first registry platform for divorce support. With 20 years of studying religion and communities under my belt, and as the creator of the VASE Method of communication I have a lot of opinions about what etiquette is and what it should be. I’ve been featured in Time Magazine, The New York Times, Real Simple, and more talking about everything from the least worst way to cancel your wedding to gifting in awkward circumstances.

My superpower? Knowing when to leave the party—and I’m here to answer all your questions about boundaries, manners, and navigating life as a human in this wild world. Each week, I’ll tackle one of your questions and break it down in a way that’s approachable, not stressful, because etiquette doesn’t have to be archaic or stuffy. Let’s leave the outdated rules behind and redefine how we connect. Follow Jenny Says So on your favorite podcast platform, and head to FreshStartsRegistry.com/JennySaysSo to send your questions (they can be anonymous!) —I can’t wait to hear from you!

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Best Video Podcast

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The Piano Pod

Show description:

Thanks for stopping by. My name is Yukimi, a classical pianist and educator from NYC and executive producer of The Piano Pod. This one-of-a-kind podcast delves deep into the fascinating world of classical music, with a specific focus on the piano. In a biweekly format, the show explores intriguing discussions with A-listers breaking exciting new ground in the classical music industry. It aims to nurture a thriving community that embraces innovative approaches to ensure classical music's relevance and vitality in today's dynamic landscape.

Over the past four seasons, TPP has achieved remarkable success by reaching faithful listeners on audio platforms and viewers via YouTube. As the show is gearing toward the new season in the fall, my mission as the Executive Producer is crystal clear: to provide a platform for classical musicians and educators to reflect and discuss ways to keep our industry robust and meaningful in this ever-changing world and move it forward in the post-pandemic era.

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Women in AI Research

Show description:

Women in AI Research (WiAIR) is a podcast dedicated to celebrating the remarkable contributions of female AI researchers from around the globe. Our mission is to challenge the prevailing perception that AI research is predominantly male-driven.

With the WiAIR podcast, our goal is to empower early career researchers, especially women, to pursue their passion for AI and make an impact in this rapidly growing field. You will learn from women at different career stages, stay updated on the latest research and advancements, hear powerful stories of overcoming obstacles and breaking stereotypes, and become part of the community that values diversity and inclusion in AI.

New episodes released every three weeks on Wednesday.

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Crafty Brewers: Tales Behind Craft Beer

Show description:

Welcome to Crafty Brewers, where we’ll increase your enjoyment of craft beer by learning about the stories, techniques, and inspiration behind the best craft breweries. In every episode, we visit a different brewery to showcase its unique atmosphere and hear brewers share how they got started, what they’ve learned, and what keeps them brewing. Crafty Brewers is perfect for beer lovers who want to discover new beer styles, explore brewing techniques, and get to know the people behind the pints. 

Watch full episodes and clips here on YouTube, or listen on your favorite podcast app, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. And please tell a friend about Crafty Brewers if you're enjoying our content!

Hosted by broadcaster and beer enthusiast Brian Noonan and award-winning podcast producer Cody Gough, this is the best craft beer podcast on tap. Cheers!

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Best Tech Podcast

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Pathfinders

Show description:

In this podcast, we dive into the personal stories of remarkable individuals who have blazed trails through uncharted territories. Our guests share the raw, unfiltered narratives of their travels to success. But it's not just about the destination—it's about the resilience, the setbacks, the unexpected turns, and the moments of real human emotion along the way.

Join us as we explore these inspiring stories, Pathfinders is here to remind you that every journey, no matter how daunting, begins with a single step.

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Blueprint for Growth: Innovation in Housing

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Show description:

British Columbia is experiencing an unprecedented housing crisis. While addressing various aspects of the housing supply chain is essential, no single approach can fully solve the challenges we face in scaling housing production. So, what's the blueprint for growth?

In November 2023, DIGITAL — Canada's Global Innovation Cluster for digital technologies — launched its Housing Growth Innovation Program with support from the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs. The program brings together collaborative teams of industry leaders to accelerate technology-driven approaches that are driving real, tangible growth for British Columbia's housing production sector.

Amy Vilis, Director of Housing Growth Innovation at DIGITAL, chats with innovators doing groundbreaking work within DIGITAL's Housing Growth Innovation Program to develop and implement technology-based solutions within British Columbia's housing sector across the full scale of end-to-end production. These conversations showcase how ideas are making it into the real world where they can become comprehensive, viable and, best of all, achievable solutions to accelerate housing production for British Columbians.

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Shift

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Show description:

Shift by Alberta Innovates is dedicated to interviewing the innovators, entrepreneurs, and researchers who are leading the future of innovation in Alberta and globally. Alberta has many unsung heroes and many interesting and important technological advancements being made that will greatly impact our lives. Shift is a spotlight for listeners to get a sense of how Alberta innovation is leading the way.

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Best Business Podcast

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The Business Development Podcast

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Show description:

Welcome to The Business Development Podcast, hosted by Kelly Kennedy—award-winning business development expert, executive coach, founder of Capital Business Development, and proudly known as a Hope Dealer for those leading from the front.

Kelly didn’t set out to build the world’s leading business development resource. He just started sharing what he’d learned from 15+ years in the trenches. 220+ episodes later, with listeners in 145+ countries, this podcast became the global standard for mastering real-world business development.

Each week, you'll get no-fluff strategy, hard-earned insight, and real conversations with top founders, CEOs, and builders. From personal branding to partnership building, from deal flow to leadership—this is where you sharpen the skills they never taught you.

If business development chose you—this is the show built for you.

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Entrepreneur School

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Show description:

The Entrepreneur School Podcast shares strategies and stories of being an entrepreneur, and what it takes to run a business while raising a family. Host Kelly Sinclair is determined to change the narrative of what success looks like. Success is subjective here.

This is a space where we encourage you to follow your dreams, do the work and acknowledge the challenges along the way. It’s for:

• The ambitious mother who wants to create a legacy for her kids.
• The goal-oriented parent who values time freedom and flexibility so that they can be there for the school concerts, hockey games and dance recitals.
• The woman who’s trying to make it all work without burning out or missing out along the way.

This show is all about supporting emerging and early-stage entrepreneurs on the journey from solopreneur to CEO, while wearing all of the other hats in life. It’s for business owners who want to grow their brands online using digital strategies and creating digital products or programs.

And most importantly, this podcast is intended to create a movement around pursuing passions, making an impact and finding joy in the journey of raising a family and running a business.

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Shift

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Show description:

Shift by Alberta Innovates is dedicated to interviewing the innovators, entrepreneurs, and researchers who are leading the future of innovation in Alberta and globally. Alberta has many unsung heroes and many interesting and important technological advancements being made that will greatly impact our lives. Shift is a spotlight for listeners to get a sense of how Alberta innovation is leading the way.

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Best Comedy Podcast

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Well, I Laughed

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Show description:

Semi-educational and organically funny, Well, I Laughed is a podcast for listeners who find themselves in search of a good laugh and their next strange story to tell at parties. Each week, one of our hosts shares what they have learned on topics ranging from the Unabomber to Frankenstein. Join Grant, a public school teacher, and Maia, an engineer, as they find the humor in the mundane. Well, I Laughed, and we think you will too. New episodes every Wednesday.

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The Neurotic Vaccine

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Show description:

Author and former Seinfeld writer Andy Cowan deems YOU his listener/(human) therapist as he faces the daunting challenge of immunity to neurosis in mini-therapy sessions with (AI) Dr. K. Comedy and therapy—what could be more therapeutic than that? Along with comedy featurettes and unreal supporting players in a multidimensional comedy podcast like no other.

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Do You Watch Anime?

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Show description:

Take a break every week with your host Adam Corky as he takes a deep dive into his guests favourite anime. The craziness devolves from there! So it begs the question… Do You Watch Anime?

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Best Health and Wellness Podcast

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The Good Clean Nutrition Podcast

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Show description:

Stay in-the-know on the hottest trending topics in health and nutrition with The Good Clean Nutrition Podcast, presented by Orgain. Join Dr. Ginger Hultin, DCN, RDN, CSO, an integrative dietitian nutritionist, as she speaks with some of the most inspiring and passionate subject-matter experts in nutrition, health, and wellness. Each episode explores the science behind popular trends in nutrition and health, debunks common myths, and provides healthcare professionals and health-minded consumers with practical insights from trusted experts.

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The FxCK YOU 50s

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Show description:

Unfiltered. Unapologetic. Undeniably Needed. Let's face it — Aging is trending. And commercialism is cashing in. Brands are turning our reality into their next big revenue stream, pushing products, promises, and influencers disguised as saviours. They're selling "solutions" to "problems" they invented while we're out here juggling hot flashes, career pivots, and figuring out who the hell decided our laugh lines were something to fix. Sound familiar? Exhausting, right? Welcome to The FxCK YOU 50s.

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Everything Lifestyle

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Show description:

The "Everything Lifestyle" podcast series is perfect for anyone who wants to stay up-to-date on the latest health trends and learn practical tips for improving their physical and mental health. Whether you're a health enthusiast, fitness buff, or just looking to make some positive changes in your life, this podcast series has something for everyone. So, tune in and start your journey towards optimal health and wellness today so that instead of just surviving, you’re thriving.

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Best Science and Medicine Podcast

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The Good Clean Nutrition Podcast

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Show description:

Stay in-the-know on the hottest trending topics in health and nutrition with The Good Clean Nutrition Podcast, presented by Orgain. Join Dr. Ginger Hultin, DCN, RDN, CSO, an integrative dietitian nutritionist, as she speaks with some of the most inspiring and passionate subject-matter experts in nutrition, health, and wellness. Each episode explores the science behind popular trends in nutrition and health, debunks common myths, and provides healthcare professionals and health-minded consumers with practical insights from trusted experts.

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The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe

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Show description:

The Skeptics’ Guide to the Universe is produced by SGU Productions, LLC – dedicated to promoting critical thinking, reason, and the public understanding of science through online and other media. The first episode of the SGU podcast went online on May 4th, 2005. It soon became a popular science/skeptical podcast, and remains one of the most popular science podcasts on iTunes.

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Women in AI Research 

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Show description:

Women in AI Research (WiAIR) is a podcast dedicated to celebrating the remarkable contributions of female AI researchers from around the globe. Our mission is to challenge the prevailing perception that AI research is predominantly male-driven. With the WiAIR podcast, our goal is to empower early career researchers, especially women, to pursue their passion for AI and make an impact in this rapidly growing field. You will learn from women at different career stages, stay updated on the latest research and advancements, hear powerful stories of overcoming obstacles and breaking stereotypes, and become part of the community that values diversity and inclusion in AI. New episodes released every three weeks on Wednesday.

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Best Society and Culture Podcast 

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Between Classes by QIA

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‍Show description:

Welcome to Between Classes by QIA. On this podcast, learners play hosts, engaging in enlightening discussions, heartwarming interviews, and thought-provoking conversations that reel in the youth and elders through their contemporary nature. Get ready to be inspired and entertained. Between Classes by QIA is your dose of education, empowerment, and enthusiasm. Whether you're a curious learner, a dedicated teacher, or a loving parent, this podcast is your invitation to connect, learn, and share in the joy of knowledge.

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Global Treasures

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Show description:

Global Treasures is an overview of the history, legends, and people that make the UNESCO world heritage sites so unique. Join us every other Wednesday as we travel the world, exploring each of these incredible sites.

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National Treasure Hunt

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Show description: 

National Treasure Hunt is the biweekly podcast taking an ocular device to the National Treasure film franchise. Hosted by Aubrey Paris and Emily Black. Tune in for new episodes released on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Soundcloud every other Wednesday, and join the hunt on Twitter and Instagram using @NTHuntPodcast!

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Best True Crime Podcast

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Morbid

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Show description:

It’s a lighthearted nightmare in here, weirdos! Morbid is a true crime, creepy history and all things spooky podcast hosted by an autopsy technician and a hairstylist. Join us for a heavy dose of research with a dash of comedy thrown in for flavor.

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Wine & Crime

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Show description:

Wine & Crime is a true crime / comedy podcast. Join two friends as they chug wine, chat true crime, and unleash their worst Minnesotan accents!

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Crook County 

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Show description:

Crook County is the shocking true-crime podcast about my father's rise through the ranks of the legendary organized crime syndicate, the Chicago Outfit. From whorehouse doorman at the age of 17, to ruthless assassin in his 20's, and the many years that followed covering up crimes for the mafia and crooked cops alike while working as a firefighter/paramedic for the Chicago Fire Department. To finally, moving to the suburbs with his new wife and kids and trying desperately to put it all behind him, until it all came crashing down. We explore in great depth and detail my father’s life of crime and its profound and lasting impact on my family to this very day.

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Winners announced May 27th 

The finalists are now in the hands of our expert judging panel, who have the exciting (and incredibly tough) task of selecting one winner per category. With so many standout shows across genres and formats, it’s safe to say 2025 has been a stellar year for podcasting.

To keep up to date with the awards, subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter, The Branded Podcaster.