October podcast guide: 8 shows to watch and listen to
Explore eight podcasts and internet shows for October 2026, including Spooked, Normal Gossip, ICYMI, and Chicken Shop Date.
This month's podcast lineup offers a variety of engaging content to fit any mood or interest. For a mystery to dig into while taking a morning walk, "The Woman in the Woods" provides a six-part investigation into the mysterious death of Mindi Kassotis. Settle in for the full six-part series on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, or other listening platforms.
As cuffing season approaches, turn to Amelia Dimoldenberg's "Chicken Shop Date" for an awkward and entertaining look at the dating scene. Dimoldenberg's deadpan questions make even practiced interview subjects lose their footing, and her series concludes its 12-year run on October 2. Watch the final episodes on YouTube.
For a cozy sweater weather companion, join host Ina Garten in her New York apartment for "Happy Hour with Ina Garten." This weekly interview show brings guests from various fields to Garten's home for drinks and conversation. Start with the first episode featuring Kate McKinnon for an easy introduction.
If you're preparing for Halloween, "Ominous Thrill" offers immersive horror stories told through full casts and immersive sound. The newest season, "Her Horrorween," launches on October 1 with 15 stories written by women spanning various forms of terror. Choose a story that suits your desired level of scares.
When the weather turns chilly, turn to "Normal Gossip" for a laugh while listening to listener-submitted stories about everyday people's questionable decisions. Host Rachelle Hampton and a guest unpack these stories, and the show has been running since 2022, providing a substantial archive to explore. Start with the episode "Paranormal Activity with Amber Singletary" for a seasonal intrigue.
Stay informed about online trends and controversies with Slate's "ICYMI," hosted by Kate Lindsay. This podcast unpacks internet trends, controversies, and the ways technology shapes everyday life twice a week. Recent discussions have covered vertical microdramas, AI doomsday predictions, and the impact of swapping smartphones for dumbphones. Start with the episode "No Phones? No Problem" to kick off your fall reset.
Finally, for those interested in urban legends, "Gerbil" examines the enduring Richard Gere rumor through investigative journalism. Host Allen Salkin traces the origin of the unsubstantiated rumor in a new season beginning October 2. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeart to uncover how this story spread and why it endured.
Written by urgent.news from Mashable's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
