The Best NEW Canadian Podcasts of 2026, so far!
BONUS: A subjective but methodically curated list of Pod the North's favourite new Canadian podcasts in 2026.
Just half-way through 2026, Canadians have already released over 50 new podcast titles to the general public.
From feminist TV recaps and edgy comedy series’, to untapped historical recounts and spirited critiques of our world, Canadians have not been holding back when it comes to making sure we’re heard and seen — and continue to make some of the podcasts in the world.
These are Pod the North’s favourite new Canadian podcasts of 2026 (so far).
A NOTE ON CRITERIA: While this list reflects my personal interests and values, it was selected using a consistent methodology to the best of my ability. Each podcast scored highly on the following criteria:
Written Package: In a world were podcast fans listen with their eyes first, the podcast must have peeked my interest in a one-sentence description. (ie, how it was displayed on the Pod the North newsletter).
Artwork: For the same reason, the podcast artwork must have peeked my interest, giving a clear indicator as to the topic and tone of the show.
Podcast Quality: The podcast has clear audio quality, with good leveling, intentional content editing, and little to no audible distractions (harsh cuts, noise, echo, etc). Powerful and intentional sound design is the ultimate bonus.
Charismatic Host(s): The podcast features an engaging host(S) who is well paired to the subject at hand, and is personable and able to build a connection their audience.
Uniqueness: The podcast features a unique story, format or concept, or personality that leaves you wanting more. There’s nothing else like it, and if there is, this podcast is the best iteration of it.
Shared Values: Openness, progressive, insightful and no hate-speech.
Find the non-definitive list of new Canadian podcast releases at the bottom of this article!
Parents Uncharted
Launch: January 2026
If you have kids and you love them, there’s no reason to not check out this show! Without a doubt, it was only a matter of time before Sarah Adams, aka @mom.uncharted, was making waves in podcasting and she is absolutely meant to be here. Her inquisitive nature, intellect, whit, and unwavering passion for keeping kids safe explodes through this new show.
PARENTS UNCHARTED is the must-listen show for anyone raising the next generation to help you understand how the digital age, climate change, mental health and more are all impacting kids. Sarah is perfectly candid in her conversations with experts, and shares interesting and nuanced critiques of the latest trends and issues affecting kids.
Canada Re-Imagined: Season 3
Launch: January 2026
If “Canadian Futurism” is a new or intriguing concept to you, look no further than the latest season of CANADA RE-IMAGINED. This fascinating series joins Patrick Esmonde-White, a retired federal government official and author, for forward-thinking lectures about some of the most creative, progressive, and imaginative ideas to transform Canada.
Each episode is a captivating and truly enlightening listen, with each concept consistently leaving me feeling even more curious about Canada as a societal framework. From constitutional renovation to Indigenous restitution, this is the show all Canadians need in 2026 to invigorate our confidence in our ideas, and open up meaningful dialogues about our vision for the future, and the solutions we’ve only just scratched the surface of.
The Decibel: Skinny, Inc.
Launch: February 2026
I’ll be the first to admit that the popularity of GLP-1s has thrown my self-image for a loop. Feeling low and with countless unanswered questions about how Ozemptic, Wegovy and the like have jetted into the mainstream so fast — and how beauty standards have shifted in tandem — the 3-part series from THE DECIBEL: SKINNY, INC., came at the perfect time.
This neatly paced series joins Globe and Mail producer, Kasia Mychajlowycz, as she uncovers not only the science and culture around GLP-1s, but the absolute scale of the industry surrounding them. In some of the most transparent and insightful reporting on the subject out there, Kasia investigates just how easy it is to get your hands on these drugs, even when they’re not prescribed, and what it means now that Canadians are being bombarded with advertising for them.
The Blank List
Launch: April 2026
It’s no secret around here that I’ve been obsessed with THE BLANK LIST since day one. A hilarious pack of inquiring minds coming together to decide on a definitive "Top 5" list of some frivolous category? Count me the hell in. There’s no shortage of chat-style podcasts out there, but this podcast has immediately succeeded in building a laugh-out-loud and scalable concept that has focus, with endless potential to grow into whatever podcasts look like in the near future.
Hosts Adam Capriolo (The Miniature Wife), Dane Stewart (RESURRECTION), and Tranna Wintour (The Traitors Canada) are perfectly edgy, sarcastic and, honestly, convincing in their arguments for the most f***able animated characters, the craziest things that have ever happened, the cringiest celebrity couples of all time”, and so many more. There’s always some fascinating tidbit to learn from this show while keeping you totally entertained. A+!
Breathless
Launch: May 2026
It’s not often that podcast fans get a branded podcast feels like a mini-series straight out of THIS AMERICAN LIFE or HEAVYWEIGHT. But BREATHLESS is a uniquely Canadian podcast from Cystic Fibrosis Canada and Snack Labs about the profound impacts of CF on Canadians that packs a powerful punch.
Whether or not you have a relationship to Cystic Fibrosis, this is a podcast that literally anyone can appreciate. Hosted by the wonderful and charismatic Jeremie Saunders (SICK BOY), this show weaves his own lived experience of CF with captivating and descriptive scripting, immersive and intentional sound design, and unforgettable interviews that explore the complexities of identity and illness, feeling “behind", new-found freedom, and more many nuances that are innately human.
The Defendants
Launch: May 2026
I thought I knew what an uphill battle sexual assault cases were before I listened to THE DEFENDANTS, but I was wrong. It’s much more daunting than anyone could imagine.
This series is both a fascinating and troubling look at why so many sexual assault survivors are afraid to seek justice, and the scale of what they’re truly up against if they do. Host Jane Aster Roe has a gentle and steady approach in outlining the many roadblocks victims are up against, with the series breaking each of them down in an inquisitive, thoughtful, and generous way. This is a required listen for anyone asking what meaningful change actually means for sexual assault cases in Canada.
Lavender Ranks
Launch: June 2026
This year it’s hard not to think about war; who it impacts, how and why. Time and time again we find ourselves looking back in history to understand it better, and LAVENDER RANKS came at a great time to deliver the answers we seek in wartime, and so much more.
At its core, this podcast tells the fascinating stories of the many queer people who existed in and around the military during WW1, in both a thoughtful and digestible way. The show’s hosts, Emily and Karbon, add delightfully modern flair (and Drag Race references), while unpacking the beauty and contradictory complexities of these individuals’ lives. It’s a fascinating look at the lengths humans will go to find safety and security, and an enlightening comparison to today’s global climate.
Discount Dave (and the Fix)
Launch: June 2026
It’s not that often anymore that we get a treat like DISCOUNT DAVE (AND THE FIX) in podcast form. This zany series about one woman’s wildest party story locks you in immediately, and it doesn’t let go as it unwinds into an unforgiving whirlwind of addiction and brutal reality.
There is so much to love about this show, with Rebecca’s background in theatre absolutely transforming this podcast into a one-of-a-kind audio experience. The story is a wild and emotional ride, the sound design is both grounded AND hilarious at times. This podcast has been given a true “story” treatment that MUST bless your ears.
Thunderpod
Launch: June 2026
Ever wanted to call a pal and be in their hilarious aura but not actually “be” on the phone call? THUNDERPOD is 100% that vibe. On her new podcast, Sheyanne Puterman is dishing out delicious shit-post style musings about her life, reactions to the latest in pop culture, dog cameos, and real-time scrolls through TMZ.
THUNDERPOD has both the chaotic feminine energy and oddly astute musings of Gabby Windey’s LONG WINDED, with more Canadian flavour and countless quotable and laugh-out-loud moments. Candidly, I’d also say it’s easier to follow (no shade to Gabby, love her dearly). I already have T-shirt ideas for Thunderpod merch.
Hunting The Suicide Salesman
Launch: June 2026
A gripping story about the investigation into Kenneth Law, the Canadian man who shipped more than 1200 deadly packages overseas connected to more than 145 suicides around the world, HUNTING THE SUICIDE SALEMAN had me hooked on not only that story but much more.
This show is more than an investigative true crime series, but a candid reflection of desperation, loneliness, the darkest corners of the internet, and caring for one another — what’s ultimately what stuck with me. “Care” can look a lot different depending on who you are and your own level of desperation, and Daemon Fairless does incredible work in unraveling layer after layer with a grounded voice and generous personal storytelling.
Non-definitive list of NEW CANADIAN PODCASTS IN 2026… so far:
DOLPHINS ARE THE WORST; ALSO COOL SOUNDS LIKE; PITTY PARTY, TWO BLOCKS FROM THE WHITE HOUSE; THIS IS NEW BRUNSWICK; OUT OF LEFT FIELD; HUNTING WARHEAD, CANCON, PARENTS UNCHARTED; RECOLLECTIONS; CANADA RE-IMAGINED; BIG HEADLINES; ROCKET WAR; HAPPY ENOUGH; GENERATIONS AHEAD; PERSONALLY: CREATION MYTH; THE SID SEIXEIRO SHOW; THE WONDERKAMER; UNDERSTOOD; UNCOVER: THE CULT QUEEN OF CANADA; YES WE CANADA: The Progressives Guide to Getting the F**k Out; OUR POD; THE HEART; LET’S TALK THOUGHT LEADERSHIP; GAGANOOZH PODCAST; MIRROR FALLS; SKINNY, INC; JOURNEYWOMAN AGELESS ADVENTURESS; BEHIND THE CURTAIN; STRESS TEST; SHE IS YOUR NEIGHBOUR; PODCASTERS ON THE RISE; SOMEONE KNOWS SOMETHING; UNCLOSETED; HEY, DOWNTOWN VAN!; TOTALLY BOMBED; WORDS AND CULTURE; DEEPLY UNIMPORTANT; THE BIG FIVE; CRIME BEAT; UNCOVER: THE EXPERT WITNESS; UNDERSTOOD: ARTIFICIAL INTIMACY; PERSONALLY: DISCOUNT DAVE; MORNING SKATE; ALBERTANS IN SPACE; QUEER IN ALBERTA; THE BLANK LIST; THE LEADERS & ICONS PODCAST; THE DEFENDANTS; STOLEN VOICES; BREATHLESS; MOM-VERSATIONS; HOSTILE HISTORY; PITCH AND POWER; THUNDERPOD; GLOVES OFF
Thanks for sharing what’s out there!