If you’re like me and have a love for podcasts that mix dark humor, research, and truly bizarre subjects, The Last Podcast on the Left (LPOTL) probably sits high on your list of must-listens.
Over the years, Ben Kissel, Marcus Parks, and Henry Zebrowski have explored everything from serial killers to UFOs with a style that’s equal parts hilarious and horrifying. But with such an extensive catalog, it can be hard to know where to start.
Luckily, I’ve narrowed it down to some of the best episodes that highlight what makes LPOTL so addictive. From cults to cannibals to ghostly cats, these episodes are essential listening for any fan, new or old.
10. Episode 257: Charles Manson Part I
No LPOTL episode list would be complete without the Charles Manson series. Manson’s story is one of the most infamous in American history, and LPOTL pulls no punches in their coverage.
The first episode digs into his early life, the formation of the Manson Family, and the lead-up to the horrific murders that shocked the world. What makes this episode so compelling is the way LPOTL balances humor with horror.
They don’t shy away from the brutality of Manson’s crimes, but they also know how to keep the tone light enough that you’re not overwhelmed by the darkness.
9. Episode 135: Ted Kaczynski Part I – I Will Have My Revenge!
Ted Kaczynski, better known as the Unabomber, is one of the most fascinating criminals in American history. His anti-technology manifesto and his string of bombings that targeted universities and airlines make for a chilling story.
In this episode, LPOTL breaks down Kaczynski’s early life, his growing hatred for modern society, and what led him to his infamous campaign of terror.
There’s something uniquely engaging about LPOTL’s take on Kaczynski—maybe it’s the way they weave humor into such a grim tale, or maybe it’s the insight into his psychological state. Either way, it’s a must-listen for anyone interested in domestic terrorism and the mind of a madman.
8. Episode 278: The West Memphis Three Part I
The story of the West Memphis Three is a tangled web of injustice, media sensationalism, and flawed investigations. If you’re into legal cases that leave you shaking your head, this one’s for you.
LPOTL covers the 1993 murders of three young boys and the controversial convictions of three teenagers, shedding light on what many believe was a huge miscarriage of justice.
The episode walks you through the police investigation, the trials, and the eventual release of the West Memphis Three, with a critical but fair approach. It’s one of those episodes that sticks with you long after you’ve finished listening.
7. Episode 422: The Oklahoma City Bombing Part I
The Oklahoma City Bombing is one of the most tragic events in U.S. history, and LPOTL handles it with the gravity it deserves.
Timothy McVeigh’s actions and the devastation they caused are hard to listen to, but the hosts offer a well-researched and thoughtful look into his motivations and the impact of the bombing.
What’s compelling about this episode is the depth of research and the care LPOTL takes to not trivialize the event. It’s respectful but informative, and the mix of historical context and personal stories really brings the tragedy home.
6. Episode 209: Ghost Cats of the South
Not every LPOTL episode is about murder and mayhem. Sometimes, the guys mix it up with something a little lighter—like ghost cats. Yes, ghost cats. In this episode, they explore folklore about feline spirits that supposedly haunt the southern United States.
It’s weird, it’s funny, and it’s a nice break from the darker episodes. What I love about this one is how it showcases LPOTL’s range. They can take something as quirky as ghost cats and still make it feel creepy enough to send a shiver down your spine, but not so heavy that you feel like you need a palate cleanser afterward.
5. Episode 122: Jeffrey Dahmer Part I
Let’s face it, Jeffrey Dahmer’s story is one of the most horrifying in modern crime history. Cannibalism, murder, and disturbing details make this a tough one to listen to—but if you’re into true crime, it’s absolutely fascinating.
LPOTL doesn’t hold back, but they also don’t let the episode turn into pure shock value. Instead, the first episode in this series focuses on Dahmer’s childhood and what led him down such a gruesome path.
It’s dark, it’s chilling, and it’s essential listening for anyone interested in the psychology of a killer.
4. Episode 306: Casey Anthony Part I – III Wishers
The Casey Anthony case was a media circus when it happened, and LPOTL’s multi-part series is one of the most comprehensive takes on the whole saga.
The first episode walks you through the disappearance of Caylee Anthony and the strange, often infuriating behavior of her mother, Casey. What’s cool about this series is that it doesn’t just stick to the sensationalism.
LPOTL digs into the legal aspects, the media frenzy, and how the justice system worked—or didn’t work—in this case. It’s emotional, thought-provoking, and yeah, sometimes a little funny in that way only LPOTL can pull off.
3. Episode 254: Jack the Ripper Part I – Cockney Yoga
Jack the Ripper is one of those true crime stories that never gets old. There’s something about the foggy streets of Victorian London and the unsolved mystery of the Ripper’s identity that keeps people coming back.
LPOTL’s take on this infamous serial killer goes deep into the history, the victims, and the suspects, all with the hosts’ usual flair. What sets this episode apart is the way the guys take the edge off the gruesome details with humor.
I mean, “Cockney Yoga” as a title? You know you’re in for a ride. If you’re a fan of dark history with a side of laughter, this one’s for you.
2. Episode 397: Heaven’s Gate Part I
Cults are always a hot topic on LPOTL, and Heaven’s Gate is one of the strangest. In Part I, the gang introduces us to Marshall Applewhite, the charismatic (and totally bizarre) leader who convinced his followers that mass suicide would lead them to salvation on an alien spaceship.
Sounds wild, right? It gets wilder. LPOTL handles the Heaven’s Gate story with a balance that’s hard to pull off. They’re respectful to the victims, but they don’t shy away from the absurdity of the belief system.
It’s both creepy and fascinating, and the hosts have a knack for making the weirdness digestible.
1. Episode 331: The Donner Party Part I – Salt of the Earth
If you’re into stories of human endurance pushed to the limit, this one is a gem. The Donner Party’s tragedy is a grim reminder of what people can be driven to when survival is on the line.
Imagine being stranded in the Sierra Nevada with winter fast approaching, and the only thing standing between you and starvation is—well, I’ll let you listen to find out. Part I sets the foundation, and by the time you’re done, you’ll be both fascinated and disturbed.
LPOTL’s signature blend of humor and facts keeps it from feeling too heavy, even though, let’s be honest, the story is gnarly. Cannibalism, snowstorms, and desperation—this is not your typical history lesson.
Why These Episodes Hit the Mark
What makes these episodes stand out? It’s not just the subject matter—it’s the way LPOTL brings it all together. The humor, the research, and the chemistry between the hosts create a unique experience that’s both entertaining and informative.
They’ve mastered the art of telling gruesome stories without letting the darkness take over completely. The Last Podcast on the Left is a real treat for fans of true crime, the paranormal, and the downright strange.
If you’re here for the laughs, the scares, or the history, you’ll find something that grabs you. And with these episodes, you’ve got a perfect starting point.