Serial podcast cover art

Best Serial Episodes

BySerial Productions & The New York Times
102 episodes

Our newest podcast, “The Good Whale,” is out now. Search for it wherever you get your podcasts, or follow it here: https://lnk.to/good-whale Serial Productions makes narrative podcasts that have transformed the medium. Sign up for our newsletter at nytimes.com/serialnewsletter to find out about new shows, get behind the scenes stories, and see photos and videos you can’t see on a podcast. To get full access to Serial Productions shows, and to other New York Times podcasts on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, subscribe at nytimes.com/podcasts. Have a story pitch, a tip, or feedback on our shows? Email us at [email protected] "Serial" began in 2014 as a spinoff of the public radio show "This American Life." In 2017, we formed Serial Productions when we launched the podcast “S-Town.” Since then, Serial Productions has produced every season of “Serial” along with shows like “Nice White Parents,” “The Trojan Horse Affair,” “The Coldest Case in Laramie,” “The Retrievals” and more. In 2020, we joined the New York Times Company. Our shows have reached many millions of listeners and have won nearly every major journalism award for audio, including the first-ever Peabody Award given to a podcast.

#1

The Good Whale - Ep. 1

This inaugural episode sets the stage for Keiko's story, detailing how the beloved orca from 'Free Willy' ended up in captivity. It's a gripping introduction that highlights the emotional connection fans have to Keiko and the urgent need for his rescue.

2025-01-0246m
#2

The Good Whale - Ep. 3

In this episode, Keiko interacts with wild orcas for the first time, a pivotal moment that tests everything he has learned. The tension and unpredictability of this encounter make it a must-listen for anyone interested in wildlife rehabilitation.

2025-01-0941m
#3

The Good Whale - Ep. 4

The stakes rise as a new training team adopts a strict approach to separate Keiko from humans. This episode captures the emotional turmoil of the trainers and the challenges of rehabilitating a creature so deeply connected to people.

2025-01-0934m

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#4

The Good Whale - Ep. 2

This episode dives into the dynamics of Keiko's training team and their differing visions for his future. The internal conflicts among experts give listeners an intriguing look at the complexities of animal rehabilitation.

2025-01-0235m
#5

The Good Whale - Ep. 5

Keiko's mysterious disappearance for four weeks leads to a creative reimagining of his experience through music. This unique storytelling approach adds an artistic layer to the already compelling narrative of his journey.

2025-01-0915m
#6

The Good Whale - Ep. 6

As Keiko resurfaces near a fishing village, the episode explores the tensions between his caretakers and the local community. This real-life drama captures the intersection of wildlife conservation and human interest, making it relatable and engaging.

2025-01-0935m
#7

Serial S04 - Ep. 9: This Is the Weirdness

This episode delves into the legal intricacies of the Guantánamo Bay trials, shedding light on a critical moment in history. The exploration of such a controversial topic will resonate with listeners interested in justice and human rights.

2024-05-161h 2m
#8

Serial S04 - Ep. 8: Two Ledgers

Majid Khan's story from CIA black sites offers a personal and haunting perspective on the impact of war on individuals. This episode is essential for new listeners interested in the broader implications of national security and ethics.

2024-05-091h 0m
#9

Serial S04 - Ep. 7: The Forever Reporter

This episode features a reporter's dedication to covering Guantánamo, providing insights into the media's role in documenting history. It's a powerful reminder of the importance of journalism in uncovering truth.

2024-05-021h 2m
#10

Serial S04 - Ep. 6: Part 2, Asymmetry

The aftermath of a tragic event at Guantánamo is explored in this episode, revealing the complexities of accountability. This deep dive into institutional challenges makes it a compelling listen for those interested in systemic issues.

2024-04-2556m