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10 funny podcasts to make you laugh out loud

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If you're in need of a good laugh, look no further! Podcasts have become a goldmine for comedy lovers, providing an abundance of laugh-out-loud moments....

If you're in need of a good laugh, look no further! Podcasts have become a goldmine for comedy lovers, providing an abundance of laugh-out-loud moments. Whether you're a fan of witty banter, humorous anecdotes, or sharp observational humor, there's a podcast out there to tickle your funny bone. In this article, we'll explore the power of laughter and delve into the science behind it. We'll also take a closer look at why funny podcasts have become so popular, and of course, we'll present you with the top 10 hilarious podcasts available right now. So, get ready to chuckle your way through this entertaining and insightful journey!

Understanding the power of laughter: More than just a mood boost

Laughter is like the best comedy podcasts; it's a universal language that knows no boundaries, transcending pop culture and current events to connect us on a deeply human level. But what exactly makes laughter so powerful? It's like asking, "How did this get made?"—it's an enigma that even experts like John and Adam have long explored. They're intent on understanding the science behind laughter and its positive impact on our well-being, much like a stand-up comedian preparing for a Netflix special.

When we laugh, our bodies undergo changes similar to listening to funny podcasts that make us laugh out loud. Research has shown that laughter releases endorphins, which are like the Marc Maron or Tom Segura of hormones: they not only elevate our mood but also reduce stress levels. It's like the "Andy" to our "house," a natural high that can uplift our spirits instantly.

But the benefits of laughter go beyond just a temporary mood boost. In a real-life setting, laughing also increases oxygen intake and stimulates our heart, giving us a mini workout similar to what a true crime podcast does to our brain. In fact, some studies suggest that a hearty laugh can be equivalent to a mild workout. So, the next time you find yourself laughing uncontrollably, know that you're giving your heart a little exercise too, just like how listening to the "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" podcast keeps your brain engaged.

The science behind laughter

Deep dives into the science behind laughter show it involves a complex interplay of physiological and psychological processes, akin to dissecting a top NPR or BBC podcast. Whether it's Jason Bateman or Jason Mantzoukas discussing their experiences, when we encounter something funny, our brain quickly processes this information. It's like scrolling through social media and landing on a laugh-out-loud meme, our face muscles contract, leading to that characteristic expression we know as a smile or laughter.

Interestingly, this is not an American or British phenomenon, nor is it limited to humans alone. Many animals exhibit laughter-like behaviors, demonstrating that laughter has evolutionary roots that are as ancient as they are funny. Think of it as the animal kingdom's own podcast host bringing humor to its audience.

Moreover, laughter's contagious effect is like being tagged in a funny post by Jamie or David Spade; it compels us to engage. When we hear someone laugh, our brain triggers an automatic response, making us more likely to join in. Just like special guests on a new podcast can amplify its reach, the social aspect of laughter strengthens our connections with others and fosters a sense of unity and belonging.

How humor enhances well-being: From improv to hollywood

Humor's impact on mental well-being is akin to the success of improv shows in Hollywood. It can be as enlightening as Nicole Byer's insights or as refreshing as listening to Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend. By finding humor in difficult situations, similar to the best friends on the "Office Ladies" podcast dissecting moments from "The Office," we gain a fresh perspective and can approach problems with a more positive mindset.

Furthermore, laughter fosters social bonds in the same way that celebrity guests can boost a podcast's popularity. Sharing a good laugh is like being a fly on the wall during a comedy session with Sean Hayes or Will Arnett; it promotes social connection and cooperation. It can even unite people the way "Don't Tell Me" captures its audience's attention with surprising comedic twists.

The rise of comedy podcasts: From Amazon to New York’s best

Comedy podcasts are the new sitcom of the digital age, gaining traction right now as one of the funniest mediums available. Imagine marathoning the funniest episodes of a British or American TV show, but in this case, it's hosts like Paul Scheer and co-hosts like James Acaster guiding you through the most hilarious moments and current events.

The evolution of podcast humor: A melting pot of comedy genres

Comedy has evolved from stand-up performances in New York venues to comedy bang episodes with Scott Aukerman and now to podcasts that cover everything from "WTF" moments to deep dives into how "My Dad" influenced their sense of humor. The rise of Amazon and other platforms has only made these easily accessible, much like Ed Gamble’s “Off Menu” that gives you a slice of British humor with just a click.

With social media, Tom, Jason, and other comedians have discovered new platforms. Whether they're talking about real-life issues or simply delivering the funniest jokes, the connection between comedians and their audience has never been stronger. They can share moments that make you laugh so hard it's like you're watching an "Always Sunny" podcast.

Why comedy podcasts are gaining popularity: It’s more than just a trend

The best podcasts offer a unique listening experience; it's like listening to a true crime podcast, but instead of suspense, you're gripped by humor. With special guests like David and celebrity co-hosts like Adam, comedy podcasts allow you to feel like you're in a New York comedy club right from your own house.

Listeners have found that these are some of the best ways to unwind, much like enjoying a good sitcom after a long day. And just like a favorite TV show, you can binge-listen to episodes whether you’re on an Amazon shopping spree, scrolling through social media, or just relaxing at home.

In conclusion, comedy podcasts are likely to remain an influential and beloved medium, much like how "Smartless" has become a staple in our podcast libraries. From stand-up comedians to special guests, these podcasts are bringing laughter right to our fingertips, enhancing our well-being and keeping us entertained. So, let's continue to embrace the funniest podcasts and spread joy wherever we go!

Top 10 hilarious podcasts

Now that we've explored the power of laughter and the incredible rise of comedy podcasts in pop culture, it's time to unveil our top 10 picks for the funniest podcasts right now. These shows have garnered a loyal following and consistently deliver rib-tickling moments that can make anyone laugh out loud. From notable stand-up comedians to celebrity guests, these podcasts tick every box. So, without further ado, grab your headphones and get ready for some serious laughter therapy sprinkled with a touch of current events and social media buzz!

1. "Comedy Bang! Bang!"

Scott Aukerman's "Comedy Bang! Bang!" truly takes humor to a whole new level with its improv-based deep dives into the world of comedy. As a podcast host, Scott often brings on special guests like Jason Mantzoukas and celebrity co-hosts who contribute to laugh-out-loud moments and unpredictable hilarity. The show often features stand-up comedians and has a cult following among comedy aficionados. With episodes that venture into pop culture and the bizarre, this is definitely one of the best podcasts for those looking to laugh out loud.

2. "How Did This Get Made?"

Hosted by Paul Scheer, June Diane Raphael, and Jason Mantzoukas, this podcast is a comedic gem that dissects bad movies in the most hilarious ways imaginable. Each episode feels like you're a fly on the wall during a funny conversation among best friends who share an affinity for pop culture mishaps. They even delve into topics surrounding Hollywood and the film industry, and often feature celebrity guests, making this one of the go-to funny podcasts for many.

3. "WTF with Marc Maron"

Marc Maron's deeply personal and often funny podcast is renowned for its authentic interviews and Marc's own stand-up roots. In a sea of comedy podcasts, "WTF" manages to combine smart, insightful interviews with laugh-out-loud moments that tackle everything from current events to real-life challenges and the occasional awkward Hollywood stories. Whether he’s chatting with John or Adam, Marc keeps listeners entertained with his real-life reflections.

4. "Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend"

In this new podcast, Conan O'Brien, along with his trusty assistant Sona, embarks on a quest to find a friend among his celebrity guests like Tom Segura. The show offers fans a glimpse of a different, more personal side of Conan, away from the constraints of his TV show. The podcast feels like you’re hanging out with old best friends, filled with light-hearted banter, and even some lessons on American pop culture, which has received praise on social media platforms.

5. "My Dad Wrote A Porno"

This British podcast hosted by Jamie Morton, James Cooper, and Alice Levine is an absolute riot. Imagine discovering your dad wrote a terrible erotic novel; what would you do? Jamie decided to read a chapter a week to his best friends, making for a hysterically awkward and entertaining podcast. The episodes cover a wide range of everyday life mishaps to outright absurd situations, like something you’d discuss over a British afternoon tea while laughing uncontrollably.

6. "SmartLess"

Hosted by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett, "SmartLess" offers a delightful blend of humor, education, and deep dives into various topics like current events. The chemistry between these Hollywood actors is infectious and often draws in big-name special guests, adding to its credibility as one of the best podcasts out there. The banter feels organic, almost like a sitcom in audio format, making it an instant favorite among fans.

7. "It’s Always Sunny Podcast"

The "Always Sunny Podcast" takes fans behind the scenes of the iconic American sitcom "It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia." Hosted by the show's creators and stars Rob McElhenney, Charlie Day, and Glenn Howerton, this podcast is like an extended, uncensored episode of the show itself, offering lots of laugh-out-loud moments. Whether you're a fan of the TV show or just someone looking to get into the world of funny podcasts, you won’t be disappointed.

8. "Office Ladies"

Angela Kinsey and Jenna Fischer, who played Angela and Pam on the American TV show "The Office," co-host this beloved podcast. They dissect each episode of "The Office" and offer trivia, behind-the-scenes stories, and answer fan questions. This NPR-affiliated show makes it one of the best comedy podcasts for fans of the sitcom. Listening to the "Office Ladies" podcast is like revisiting your favorite moments from the show while gaining new insights.

9. "Don’t Tell Me The Score"

Though it's not strictly a comedy podcast, this British show hosted by Simon Mundie uses sports to explore life's bigger questions and often does so with a sense of humor. It offers a unique, often funny, always insightful, look at life through the lens of sports. While the show touches on deep topics, there's a light-heartedness that makes it accessible and enjoyable to listen to, much like a chat in a British pub.

10. "Nailed It!"

Hosted by comedian Nicole Byer and pastry chef Jacques Torres, this Netflix spin-off podcast provides a laughter-packed look at the often-disastrous attempts of home bakers trying to recreate complex cakes. Nicole's comedic timing is brilliant, and the light-hearted jabs and jokes make it a must-listen. It’s the perfect complement to its Netflix show counterpart and offers enough laugh-out-loud moments to make it one of the best comedy podcasts available.

The future of comedy podcasts

As we move into an increasingly digitized age, the world of comedy podcasts is set for unprecedented growth, carving out a permanent and influential space within global pop culture. Podcasts have democratized comedy in a way that stand-up clubs and television shows never could. Now, with just a microphone and an internet connection, anyone can become a comedy star from the comfort of their own home. This accessibility is undoubtedly contributing to the genre's soaring popularity, and there's no sign of it slowing down.

But it’s not just the quantity that will see a boost; quality, too, is on an upward trajectory. With a growing audience and increasing revenues from sponsorship deals, we can expect bigger budgets for production, writing, and guest appearances. Imagine tuning in to hear not just your favorite comedians but also A-list celebrities, renowned authors, and even influential politicians getting in on the joke. As podcasts evolve, they will likely adopt newer formats, such as interactive comedy shows that involve the audience in real-time, offering an immersive experience that was previously the exclusive domain of live performances.

Moreover, as comedy podcasts continue to diversify, they'll cast a wider net of humor, appealing to a global audience with culturally specific jokes, satire, and observational humor. Comedy podcast networks are likely to emerge, acting as incubators for new talent and hubs for comedy enthusiasts. These networks will provide resources, from sophisticated recording equipment to scriptwriting assistance, allowing creators to focus solely on producing top-notch comedic content.

And let's not forget the crucial role of analytics and AI, which will make it easier than ever for creators to understand their audience, fine-tuning their content for maximum hilarity. Algorithms could even start recommending personalized comedy podcasts based on your laughter patterns, detected right through your smart headphones!

Making your comedy podcasts more accessible with Speechify Audio Video Transcription

So, you've been diving deep into the world of comedy podcasts, getting your daily dose of laughter from Zoom interviews and YouTube clips. But have you ever wanted to share those hysterical moments in a more digestible format, like text? That’s where Speechify Audio Video Transcription comes in. Whether you’re a podcast host or a dedicated fan, you can use Speechify to transcribe your favorite podcast episodes, Zoom chats, or YouTube videos. It's an incredibly handy tool that makes your content more accessible to a wider audience. Ready to share the laughter in a new way? Give Speechify Audio Video Transcription a try today!

FAQs

1. Are there any specific comedy podcasts that blend science and humor to explain the benefits of laughter?

The growing landscape of comedy podcasts offers something for everyone. If you're interested in a blend of science and humor, you could look for podcasts that feature experts in psychology or physiology as special guests alongside comedians. These types of podcasts often offer informative yet amusing takes on subjects like the science of laughter, similar to how Marc Maron or Tom Segura might dissect a complex topic.

2. How can I discover new comedy podcasts that suit my interests?

If you're looking to discover new comedy podcasts that align with your interests, platforms like Amazon, NPR, and various podcast directories often have categories or recommendations based on popular genres, including true crime podcasts or podcasts focused on pop culture. You can also use social media platforms to follow comedians or other public figures who frequently share their favorite podcasts, giving you fresh and personalized recommendations.

3. Are comedy podcasts more popular in certain regions, like New York or the United Kingdom?

The accessibility of podcasts means they can be enjoyed worldwide, irrespective of geographic location. That being said, certain types of humor might have regional appeal. For example, a podcast featuring British humor like "Off Menu" with Ed Gamble and James Acaster might be especially popular in the United Kingdom, while a podcast featuring a New York stand-up comedian could see increased traction in the United States. Regional popularity can also be influenced by the social issues or current events discussed on the podcast.

Cliff Weitzman

Cliff Weitzman

Cliff Weitzman is a dyslexia advocate and the CEO and founder of Speechify, the #1 text-to-speech app in the world, totaling over 100,000 5-star reviews and ranking first place in the App Store for the News & Magazines category. In 2017, Weitzman was named to the Forbes 30 under 30 list for his work making the internet more accessible to people with learning disabilities. Cliff Weitzman has been featured in EdSurge, Inc., PC Mag, Entrepreneur, Mashable, among other leading outlets.