29 Must-Listen Theology Podcasts

In the United States alone, nearly half of Americans aged 12 and older listen to a podcast at least once a month, with roughly 34–40% tuning in weekly. With millions of active podcasts and tens of millions of episodes available across platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube, the accessibility of audio content has never been greater.

Theology podcasts are part of this rapidly growing trend in digital media; people of all ages are turning to podcasts as a way to deepen their understanding of faith and explore complex questions through meaningful and often entertaining content. With hundreds of thousands of theological podcasts being produced worldwide, the genre is more popular than ever. Read on to discover 29 of the best Christian theology podcasts to listen to right now.

How Popular Are Theology Podcasts?

Globally, the Religion & Spirituality podcast genre, which includes theological programming, has grown by 49% in recent years, both in terms of listener engagement and the number of new shows being created. While Millennials and Gen Z listeners (ages 12–34) make up a significant portion of the podcast audience overall, older adults are also increasingly embracing the format. This makes podcasts a truly intergenerational platform for spiritual exploration and theological education.

While theological content may not always compete with the download numbers of genres like true crime or political commentary, its reach is still considerable. Some theologically grounded podcasts (such as BibleProject) have earned large global audiences by fostering rich, open-minded, and ongoing conversations around Scripture and the Christian tradition. (A Catholic podcast, The Rosary in a Year, actually overtook The Joe Rogan Experience as the number one podcast on Apple in early 2025.)

At a time when digital platforms shape so much of how people learn and connect, Christian theology podcasts offer a unique opportunity: to bring the breadth and depth of this ancient tradition into listeners’ everyday lives, inviting them to engage with faith both intellectually and reflectively. For those drawn to the Franciscan way of seeing the world — with Christ at the center of creation and love as our first calling — this digital medium is a rich space for both discovery and discipleship.

29 Best Theology Podcasts

One of the best things about the podcast medium is its accessibility. Listeners can access podcasts while doing chores, in transit, relaxing, or anywhere they can bring a pair of headphones and a connected device. When it comes to theology podcasts, that means you can deepen your faith and understanding at almost any time, in any place.

The following is only a small sampling of Christian theology podcasts, but the list represents a wide diversity of formats and viewpoints. Each “Where to listen” is not exhaustive; try searching for the title on your platform of choice. Note that some titles may no longer be producing new episodes at the time of publication.

Best Podcasts for Theology Students and Scholars

Podcasts can be a surprisingly rich supplement to scholarly coursework, research, and reading. The titles in this section offer rigorous engagement with Scripture, doctrine, church history, and the Franciscan intellectual tradition, featuring voices from seminaries, universities, and research institutions around the world.

1. The Franciscan Intellectual Tradition

A 12‑talk series exploring the distinctive Franciscan approach to Christ, creation, and the human person, rooted in the tradition of St. Francis of Assisi and his intellectual heirs. (Featuring Br. Bill Short, OFM, Professor of Spirituality at Franciscan School of Theology.)

• Who is it for? Scholars, students, and anyone interested in Franciscan theology and its classical roots
• Where to listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify

2. BibleProject

A highly produced, narrative-style podcast offering deep biblical theology through conversations on Scripture, literary design, and the overarching story of the Bible.

• Who is it for? Anyone interested in Scripture, especially pastors, students, and laypeople seeking scholarly yet accessible biblical insight
• Where to listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, BibleProject app, and the BibleProject website

3. Exploring My Strange Bible

A side project from a co-founder of BibleProject, Tim Mackie, comprising his lectures, sermons, and classroom teachings from his career as a pastor.

• Who is it for? Students, pastors, lay leaders, and anyone interested in learning about Scripture from a working pastor
• Where to listen: Apple, Spotify, iHeart, the BibleProject website

4. Let’s Talk Religion

An academic exploration of world religions, philosophy, and mysticism that provides well-researched and engaging discussions on often overlooked religious topics.

• Who is it for? Listeners interested in comparative religion, philosophy, and academic discussions about religious history
• Where to listen: YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify

5. OnScript

A podcast that features engaging conversations on the Bible and theology, hosted by biblical scholars and theologians.

• Who is it for? Academics, theologians, advanced students of biblical studies
• Where to listen: Apple Podcasts, Podbean, YouTube

6. New Books

New Books Network is an online platform dedicated solely to interviews with authors of newly published books. Use the search bar to discover titles on the topic of your choice; there are currently over 1,550 titles on “theology” alone.

• Who is it for? Biblical studies scholars, graduate students, researchers
• Where to listen: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, New Books Network website

7. For the Life of the World

A podcast by the Yale Center for Faith & Culture offering theological insight, cultural analysis, and reflection for personal and communal flourishing.

• Who is it for? Scholars and listeners interested in theology’s connection to culture and society
• Where to listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Audible

8. A History of Christian Theology

Hosted by Dr. Charles Kim, Jr., this podcast features interviews and discussions about historic Christian doctrines and theologians.

• Who is it for? Scholars of theology, church history students, doctoral students
• Where to listen: Apple, Spotify, Podbean

Best Podcasts for Pastors and Chaplains (Current and Aspiring)

Pastoral work and chaplaincy require a deep commitment to spiritual care alongside a perpetual search for knowledge. The road to becoming an effective leader in ministry is one of continuous learning and reflection. Offering practical advice, theological insights, and real-world wisdom, these podcasts are ideal for pastors, chaplains, and those aspiring to serve in these vital roles.

9. Clerically Speaking

Two Catholic priests (one Canadian, one American) share candid and humorous conversations about the priesthood and Church life.

• Who is it for? Current and aspiring Catholic priests and seminarians but also any lay leader curious about clerical perspectives
• Where to listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, SoundCloud

10. Catholic Stuff You Should Know

A light‑hearted yet theologically attentive podcast exploring both prominent and obscure Catholic topics.

• Who is it for? Catholics (lay and ordained) and seminarians who want to engage with theology in an accessible format
• Where to listen: Spotify, Apple Podcasts

11. Poco a Poco Podcast
Weekly reflections by the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal on prayer, community life, and pastoral ministry lived “little by little (poco a poco)”.

• Who is it for? Catholic clergy, ministry‑team members, those drawn to Franciscan spirituality
• Where to listen: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, the friars’ website

Best Podcasts for Spiritual Formation

Spiritual formation is less a destination than a lifelong journey. The podcasts in this section can offer accompaniment on that journey, fostering a deepened awareness of God’s presence in the world. Rooted in a variety of traditions, they share a common conviction: that tending to the inner life is not separate from engaging the world, but essential to it.

12. What Is Spirituality?

A podcast from the Franciscan Spirituality Center in La Crosse, Wisconsin, hosted by FSC spiritual director Steve Spilde. Each episode introduces a mentor from the host’s life, including spiritual directors, Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, and program leaders, who reflect on the central question: what is spirituality? A warm, personal series ideal for those drawn to Franciscan contemplative life.

• Who is it for? Those exploring the meaning of spirituality and spiritual direction, particularly from a Franciscan perspective
• Where to listen: Spreaker, Franciscan Spirituality Center website

13. Following Francis

Produced by the Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in America, this podcast joins host Chris Dwyer and the friars as they explore Franciscan spirituality, vocations, and the enduring mission of the Holy Land Franciscans. Episodes range from conversations on pilgrimage and spiritual direction to discussions with students, young professionals, and those discerning a religious vocation. (Note: No new episodes since 2019.)

• Who is it for? Catholics interested in Franciscan life, vocations, and the Holy Land mission
• Where to listen: Apple Podcasts

14. Learning How to See

Hosted by author and former evangelical pastor Brian McLaren and produced by the Center for Action and Contemplation, this podcast asks: how do we transform and transcend our biases? McLaren and guests explore the social, political, and contemplative dimensions of perception and what it means to see through the eyes of love.

• Who is it for? Spiritual seekers, contemplatives, and those drawn to the intersection of faith, justice, and inner transformation
• Where to listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, CAC website

15. A Franciscan Heart in the World (Advent Edition)

A daily reflection podcast from St. Patrick–St. Anthony Church and the Franciscan Center for Urban Ministry in Hartford, Connecticut, hosted by Br. Mike Johnson, OFM. Each episode offers a 5–7 minute Advent or Lenten reflection designed to help listeners rediscover the sacred in the ordinary, walking toward the light one day at a time.

• Who is it for? Catholics seeking brief, grounding daily reflections during liturgical seasons, in the Franciscan tradition
• Where to listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart (Note: Seasonal podcast; check for new seasons)

Best Podcasts on Women in Theology

Women have long been shaping and reshaping theology, offering unique perspectives that challenge traditional frameworks. These podcasts celebrate the voices of women theologians, scholars, and activists who explore theology through the lenses of gender, race, justice, and liberation.

16. Abiding Together

A women-led podcast (including a Catholic sister and laywomen) offering reflection, prayer, and encouragement for living out faith in everyday life.

• Who is it for? Christian women across various walks of life seeking a deepened spirituality
• Where to listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify

17. Reclaiming My Theology

A podcast and community that focuses on reclaiming theology from oppressive systems (white supremacy, patriarchy, etc.) and re‑imagining faith from marginalized perspectives.

• Who is it for? Listeners interested in social justice and decolonizing theology, especially women and marginalized voices
• Where to listen: Apple Podcasts, Podbean, Spotify

18. God Calling: Vocation Vibes

From the Little Sisters of the Poor, this bilingual (English/Spanish) podcast explores vocational discernment for today’s young people. Sisters Raymond Marie and Carolyn discuss everything from Gen Z’s hunger for silence to the spiritual richness of consecrated religious life with warmth, humor, and a genuine desire to accompany those asking, “Is God calling me?”

• Who is it for? Young adults discerning a religious vocation, campus ministers, and those curious about consecrated life
• Where to listen: Little Sisters of the Poor website

Best Podcasts on Faith and Justice

The Franciscan tradition has always emphasized that love of God and love of neighbor cannot be separated. These podcasts are for listeners who believe that faith without action is incomplete, bringing theological reflection to bear on some of the most pressing justice issues of our time.

19. The Jesuit Border Podcast

Produced by The Jesuit Post, this podcast features Jesuit priests Fr. Brian Strassburger and Joe Nolla, who are stationed in the Diocese of Brownsville, Texas, ministering to migrants along the US–Mexico border. They share stories from the shelters and camps where they work and interview advocates, church workers, and refugees, putting Catholic social teaching into direct contact with lived reality.

• Who is it for? Those concerned with immigration, Catholic social teaching, and justice-centered ministry
• Where to listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Pocket Casts

20. Questions From the Pew

Produced by World Outspoken, a nonprofit that prepares Latinx church leaders for more effective ministry, this podcast addresses burning questions that churchgoers might be afraid to ask. No question is off-limits.

• Who is it for? Curious churchgoers, current or aspiring pastors, theology students, and laypeople seeking to understand why their church makes certain decisions or statements
• Where to listen: Pod Engine, Songaplay, World Outspoken website

Best Thought-Provoking Theology Podcasts

Difficult questions are often a necessary part of faith formation, and contemplating them takes courage. Sometimes it helps to consider theological concepts from a new angle. The following titles are for those who seek discussions of contemplative, non-traditional, and sometimes challenging perspectives on theology.

21. Franciscan Spirit

Insightful conversations with authors, artists, and educators exploring faith, spirituality, and life through a Franciscan lens. (Featuring FST faculty members.)

• Who is it for? Christians interested in Franciscan spirituality, reflective theology, and contemplation
• Where to listen: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube via Franciscan Media website

22. Homebrewed Christianity with Tripp Fuller

A progressive and somewhat experimental theological podcast interviewing scholars and thinkers and inviting listeners to “brew your own faith.”

• Who is it for? Advanced lay listeners, theologians, scholars, anyone drawn to challenging and expansive theology
• Where to listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Audible, Tripp Fuller’s website

23. Faith Lab

A podcast by a former pastor and Bible scholar that re‑examines evangelical frameworks and invites tough questions about Scripture, faith, and culture.

• Who is it for? Seekers, doubters, those engaged in theological reflection or deconstruction of inherited beliefs
• Where to listen: Apple Podcasts, Faith Lab website

24. The Bleak Theology Podcast

A pessimistic yet hopeful conversation on God, culture, and the human condition that explores themes of lamentation, post-punk culture, and theological reflection in the context of suffering.

• Who is it for? Those interested in theological reflections on the darker parts of the human condition, particularly from a post-punk, liberation theology perspective
• Where to listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify

25. A People’s Theology
Formerly called “Religionless Church,” this podcast explores theology through conversations with authors and scholars, tackling issues such as Christian nationalism, biblical origins, and process theology, all while connecting theology to culture.

• Who is it for? Those seeking liberation theology, progressive thinkers, people re‑examining traditional views of Christianity, and those exploring intersections of faith and culture
• Where to listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify

Best Catholic News and Culture Podcasts

Staying informed about the life of the Church is itself a form of civic and spiritual engagement. These podcasts bring journalistic rigor and theological literacy to Catholic news and commentary, covering everything from Vatican developments and U.S. Church politics to books, arts, and ideas.

26. Jesuitical

Hosted by America Media editors Ashley McKinless and Zac Davis, Jesuitical brings a lively, lay Catholic perspective to the week’s top news. Each episode covers current events in the Church and culture, features an in-depth guest interview, and closes with the hosts sharing their personal consolations and desolations, a nod to the Ignatian tradition of paying attention to where God is moving.

• Who is it for? Catholics looking for engaging, accessible commentary on Church news and contemporary culture
• Where to listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube

27. The Commonweal Podcast

Hosted by Commonweal editor Dominic Preziosi, this twice-monthly podcast from one of America’s oldest Catholic journals offers thoughtful conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and culture. With over 100 episodes and guests drawn from theology, history, journalism, and public life, it models the kind of careful, independent Catholic thinking Commonweal has championed since 1924.

• Who is it for? Readers interested in serious Catholic engagement with politics, culture, and ideas across the theological spectrum
• Where to listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Commonweal website

28. The Wise and the Wherefores

The podcast companion to The Tablet, the international Catholic weekly founded in London in 1840. Hosted by assistant editor Ruth Gledhill and Sr. Liz Dodd, CSJP, the show covers Catholic news from around the world, from Vatican developments and women’s roles in the Church to politics and culture.

• Who is it for? Those interested in global Catholic affairs, Church reform conversations, and international perspectives on faith and society
• Where to listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, The Tablet website

29. The Francis Effect

A podcast about culture and politics through the lens of Catholic teaching and spirituality, hosted by theologians Daniel P. Horan, OFM, Heidi Schlumpf, and David Dault. Each episode tackles pressing issues in the Church and the world — immigration, climate, Catholic social teaching, and more — with incisive commentary and expert interviews.

• Who is it for? Catholics interested in the intersection of faith, politics, and contemporary culture
• Where to listen: Francis Effect website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify

Trends in Theological Podcasting

As theological podcasts become more popular and visible across digital platforms, they’re also evolving in ways that reflect the complexity of modern life alongside the richness of the Christian tradition. What began as a niche corner of podcasting has become a lively space of community and faith formation, often reaching beyond the traditional boundaries of parish or seminary.

These are the trends emerging around theological podcasts:

Broadening perspectives

A growing number of podcasts center perspectives that have historically been underrepresented in academic and ecclesial circles, including women theologians, voices from the Global South (Latin America, Africa, Asia, and Oceania), and those speaking from the margins of power. This reflects a more modern (and Franciscan) vision of the Church: diverse, decentralized, and deeply attuned to the experiences of the poor, the excluded, and the earth itself.

Interdisciplinary content

In many theological podcasts, listeners will find content that goes beyond doctrine or Scripture study alone. In general, there is a stronger focus on the way justice, ecology, identity, and mental health intertwine with faith to inform the human condition. Many podcasts model an interdisciplinary approach, weaving theology with insights from science, philosophy, psychology, and culture. (This is very much in keeping with Franciscan intellectual tradition, which has always sought to integrate knowledge with compassion, and reason with reverence.)

Community-building

From live podcast recordings to hybrid learning events and interactive listener Q&A sessions, many shows are inviting their audiences to participate in real time. This echoes the relational heart of theology: not as solitary study but as a conversation shaped by presence and mutuality.

Accessibility and inclusivity

In terms of accessibility, podcasts overall are more inclusive than ever. Many shows now offer transcripts, multilingual episodes, and varied episode lengths to meet listeners where they are, whether they are commuting, caregiving, or reflecting in prayer. For theological podcasts, these formats help expand theological education beyond formal seminary walls, creating new entry points for spiritual seekers, lay leaders, and lifelong learners.

Growing polarization

As in many parts of contemporary media, both progressive and conservative theological communities are carving out niche spaces for their beliefs and audiences. While this can foster clarity of identity, it may also limit shared dialogue. Franciscan theology reminds us that genuine listening and open-hearted conversation are part of our vocation, especially across lines of difference.

New models of financial sustainability

Listener donations, subscriptions, events, and sponsorships are enabling even small, independent theology podcasts to thrive. This “democratization” of theological media brings both the opportunity and responsibility to remain grounded in tradition while responding creatively to the signs of the times.

How to Choose a Theology Podcast

With thousands of theology and spirituality podcasts available today, choosing where to begin can feel overwhelming. If you’re a theology student, a lifelong learner, or someone just beginning to explore your faith, here are a few helpful criteria to consider when selecting a podcast that will deepen your understanding:

• Match it to your purpose
  Start by asking yourself, “What am I looking for?” Are you seeking theological depth? Personal reflection? A specific approach to Scripture or social justice? Matching your intention to the podcast’s focus helps ensure you’re investing your time wisely.
• Check the host’s background
  Look into who is leading the conversation. Are they a trained theologian, clergy member, educator, or someone sharing from lived experience? Hosts shape not only the content but also the lens through which theology is interpreted.
• Preview the tone and style
  Some podcasts are meditative and slow-paced; others are fast-moving and dialogue-driven. Franciscan spirituality invites us into both contemplation and action; the right tone can support the spiritual rhythm you’re seeking.
• Look at episode length and frequency
  Choose formats that align with your daily life. Some podcasts offer 10-minute reflections, while others release longform episodes weekly or monthly. Consistency can be key to sustained learning.
• Sample the guest list
  Guests often shape the breadth and depth of a podcast. A diverse range of voices, including women, lay leaders, global South theologians, and people from the margins reflects a more inclusive and embodied theology, which resonates deeply with Franciscan values.
• Read reviews or listener feedback
  What are others saying? Listener reviews can provide insight into the podcast’s tone, accessibility, and trustworthiness, especially if you’re encountering new theological frameworks or traditions.
• Test accessibility
  Are transcripts available? Are the episodes free to stream? Is the language approachable for someone at your stage of theological learning? Good theology is not meant to be inaccessible; it should meet people where they are.
• Evaluate theological perspective
  Perhaps most importantly, discern the podcast’s theological foundation. Does it reflect values that are relational, incarnational, and centered on love? Is Christ understood as the heart of creation? Does the content inspire compassion and solidarity, especially with those on the margins?

At FST, we believe that theology is not just something to study, but something to live. Podcasts can be a beautiful entry point, but deeper formation often calls for more intentional study, prayer, and community.

If you’re ready to take a more formal step toward theological education, we invite you to learn about our degree programs, including our online and on-campus Master of Theological Studies, to deepen your understanding of faith and vocation.

May your journey of discovery continue — wherever you’re headed, God is already there to welcome you.

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