Unveiling the Best Podcasts that Explore Presidential History and More

Hosted by Lillian Cunningham, "Presidential" is a renowned podcast that probes into the life and times of every past U.S. president. Each episode dissects how they ascended to office, their decision-making processes, and the crises they navigated, thus redefining the role of the commander-in-chief. Noteworthy guests such as Pulitzer Prize-winning biographers and Washington Post journalists enrich the narrative. Originally released ahead of the 2016 elections, special episodes now illuminate historical stories relevant to today's political climate. For history enthusiasts eager for more, Lillian also hosts the thought-provoking podcasts "Constitutional" and "Moonrise". Listen here.

The chaotic and often turbulent history of U.S. elections is laid bare in "American Elections: Wicked Game". This podcast offers a riveting retrospective on every presidential race from George Washington's unanimous victory in 1789 to Donald Trump's controversial 2020 election loss. Hosted by the creators behind "American History Tellers" and "American Scandal", it presents a candid view that reveals presidential elections have been tumultuous affairs long before the current political era. Listen here.

Mike Rowe brings his characteristic charm and wit to "The Way I Heard It", shedding new light on stories spanning from pop culture and history to Hollywood. Every 'trueish' tale is filled with intriguing details you probably haven't heard, delivering insightful revelations and intimate reflections drawn from Mike’s own experiences and career. Listen here.

"Presidents Are People Too!" seeks to humanize some of the most revered figures in American history, revisiting the personalities of U.S. presidents beyond their public facades. Hosted by Elliott Kalan and Alexis Coe, this Audible Originals series dives into the flaws, scandals, and triumphs of each president, revealing the lesser-known sides of these historical icons. Listen here.

Slate's "Slow Burn" captivates listeners with deep dives into pivotal moments of American history across its many lauded seasons. Each season focuses on a major event or figure—recent subjects include the rise of Clarence Thomas and the fight for gay rights inaugurated by John Briggs' 1978 proposition. Revered for its engaging storytelling and insightful analysis, "Slow Burn" has earned accolades like the Podcast of the Year at the 2024 Ambies Awards and Apple Podcasts Show of the Year. Listen here.