Maybe you got excited from the tragic but bizarre case of Jonathan James, who penetrated the US Department of Defense computers and stole a piece of NASA software when he was only 15 years old.
Or maybe you fell in love with the hacker Neo in Matrix when you were a kid.
Whatever it is, if hacker stories always catch your attention and seem to be especially intriguing, we have a treat for you: a list of hacker podcasts you'll absolutely enjoy.
These hacker podcasts are full of curious hacking cases, some insights into the strange hacking world, and even interviews with hackers themselves!
So forget about Netflix because listening to these hacker podcasts will be all you want to do this weekend.
10 of the Best Hacker Podcasts to Listen To
1. Best Storytelling Hacker Podcast: Darknet Diaries
Hacking isn’t just a skill. It’s a world of deception and espionage, and in the worst of cases, even full-blown digital warfare. Jack Rhysider takes you straight into the heart of it all, telling real stories of cybercrime, whistleblowers, and underground networks. Each episode feels like a true crime thriller, but the crimes take place behind screens. Whether it’s a nation-state hacking operation or a lone hacker taking down a corporation, every story is meticulously researched and gripping from start to finish.
2. Best Community Hacker Podcast: Hacker Public Radio
A podcast made by hackers, for hackers. There’s no single host, no set format, and no predictable topics, just a raw, unfiltered stream of knowledge from people who live and breathe technology. One episode might cover building a secure home network, the next might be a deep dive into Linux, then suddenly you’re listening to a debate on digital ethics. The variety keeps things fresh, and the community-driven approach makes it feel like you’re sitting in a room full of brilliant, opinionated minds.
3. Best Activism Hacker Podcast: Off The Hook
If you want to hear hackers talk shop, this one is a must-listen. The show has been around for decades, covering digital privacy, online surveillance, and the latest security loopholes long before mainstream media caught on. It’s a mix of news, personal stories, and technical breakdowns, delivered with a sharp, skeptical edge. Expect discussions on everything from government overreach to the latest social engineering tricks.
4. Best Insider Hacker Podcast: H4unt3d Hacker
Mike Jones, a former hacktivist turned cybersecurity insider, strips away the glamorized stereotypes surrounding hackers. With unfiltered honesty and firsthand anecdotes, Mike invites guests to explore the human side of cybersecurity, hacktivism ethics, and real-world digital warfare. A grounded, gritty listen that offers practical insights from both sides of the firewall.
5. Best Expert Hacker Podcast: Hacker Talk
Some podcasts skim the surface, but this one goes deep. Each episode features in-depth conversations with cybersecurity professionals, white-hat hackers, and researchers pushing the limits of digital security. The discussions are technical but not overwhelming, making this a solid pick for anyone who wants to truly understand the threats shaping the internet today. You’ll hear about security flaws, digital forensics, and the evolving tactics of cybercriminals straight from the experts dealing with them.
6. Best Privacy Hacker Podcast: Hacked
Cybercrime affects everyone, but most people only see the headlines. This podcast breaks down what those headlines actually mean. The hosts Jordan Bloeman and Scott Francis Winder take major hacking incidents—ransomware attacks, social engineering scams, underground marketplaces—and explain how they happen, who’s behind them, and what’s at stake. The storytelling is sharp, the insights are eye-opening, and every episode leaves you looking at the internet in a whole new way.
7. Best Investigative Hacker Podcast: CYBER
Motherboard’s CYBER is a newsroom podcast with an edge—dissecting tech scandals, internet conspiracies, and modern espionage without getting lost in jargon. Hosts translate intricate cybersecurity stories into engaging episodes, balancing investigative journalism with approachable clarity. Essential listening for anyone wanting sharp insight into today’s cyber chaos.
8. Best Analysis Hacker Podcast: Security Now
Think of this as the cybersecurity news podcast for people who like details. Steve Gibson and Leo Laporte take their time explaining vulnerabilities, zero-day exploits, and the latest digital threats. They don’t just tell you what’s happening; they break down how things work at a technical level, making it one of the best sources for staying informed. If you like podcasts that feel like deep-dive conversations rather than quick soundbites, this one belongs in your rotation.
9. Best News Hacker Podcast: CyberWire Daily
Security news moves fast, and this podcast keeps you in the loop without wasting time. Each episode is a short, to-the-point briefing on the latest threats, cybersecurity developments, and expert insights. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to stay updated but doesn’t have time to dig through endless articles. Whether it’s a major ransomware attack or a new privacy law, this show delivers the essentials in an efficient and easy-to-digest way.
10. Best History Hacker Podcast: Malicious Life
History is full of legendary hackers, infamous cyberattacks, and security breakthroughs that changed everything. This podcast tells those stories, peeling back the layers to show what really happened behind the scenes. Host Ran Levi brings a mix of narrative storytelling and expert interviews, making complex cybersecurity topics feel like gripping historical events. If you want to understand how hacking evolved from the early days to today’s high-stakes cyber warfare, this one delivers.
