Do you read manga like me but don’t have anyone to talk to about it? Ever tried to get your significant other to read a story you just know they’d love, only to get a weird look and a “not for me”? Yeah, I’ve been there.
Instead of guilt-tripping my partner into reading manga, I turn to podcasts. I love listening to other people who share the same passion — whether it’s diving into stories, interviewing authors with great questions, book clubs discussing themes, or artists explaining their process. If that sounds like your thing, check out my interviews too where I’ve asked authors and artists those very questions.
But while searching for the perfect podcast to get me through the dullness of everyday life, I found myself asking: what are the most popular manga podcasts?
So I googled, I listened, I scrolled socials — all to find my next favorite manga podcast. And as someone who’s been reading manga for years, I’m pretty picky.
That’s why I put together this list of the most popular manga podcasts. It’s based on my tastes, so I’m sure I’ve missed some good ones. If I have, let me know what I’m missing out on — I’d love to check them out.
There weren’t really any rules to get on this list. Some have big followings, some are tied to huge YouTube channels, and some are smaller, niche podcasts that just focus on cool topics.
Anyway, hope you find your next favorite here.
12 Manga Podcasts to save to your profile
This list of manga podcasts will focus on — you guessed it — manga. Crazy idea, right? Of course, some of these podcasts also touch on anime or cultural connections to the stories and art we all enjoy. Whether it’s the latest news, anime on Netflix, or deep dives into the creative side of things, the focus always circles back to manga.
The selection I’ve put together covers a wide range of themes: seinen manga podcasts, shoujo manga podcasts, manga news podcasts, even the latest Shonen Jump hits, old favorites, and those series that never quite took off and flopped. Basically, this list has a little something for everyone.
You’ll find an overview of what each podcast is about, along with links to their shows, socials, and websites (where available). Hopefully, this gives you enough info to make an informed decision on which ones deserve your time.
Some of these podcasts I have listened to me and others that have been recommended.
Behind the manga podcast
Behind the Manga is a bi-monthly podcast hosted by MangaAlerts’ Vampy and WinterVenom, offering listeners a unique look at the manga and anime world. Instead of sticking to reviews, the show shines a light on the behind-the-scenes side of the industry covering topics like licensing, translation, publishing, and marketing.
The hosts regularly sit down with key figures who bring manga to life outside of Japan, including publishers, translators, and artists. Past guests have included representatives from Kodansha USA, Square Enix Manga & Books, and artist Acky Bright, making each episode both insightful and authentic.
For anyone curious about how manga travels from Japanese creators to shelves worldwide, Behind the Manga delivers thoughtful discussions, insider knowledge, and a genuine love for the medium.
MangaSplaining podcast
Mangasplaining is a podcast that invites listeners to discover the world of manga through fresh eyes. Every week, comics writer/artist Chip Zdarsky (who admits he knows little about manga) is guided by experts Deb Aoki, David Brothers, and Christopher Woodrow-Butcher, as they introduce him — and you — to some of the best and most important works in the medium.
Together, the hosts blend humor, insight, and decades of experience to make manga accessible to newcomers while still engaging long-time fans. With each episode focusing on a single volume, they discuss what makes these stories special, how they connect to the wider comics world, and why manga has become such a global cultural force.
The team behind Mangasplaining isn’t just passionate about reading manga, they’ve lived and worked in the industry. From editing and publishing to writing, critiquing, and even running festivals, they bring a unique, informed perspective. Whether you’re new to manga or a veteran reader looking for thoughtful conversation, Mangasplaining is an entertaining and educational way to explore the art form.
Manga Machinations podcast
Manga Machinations is a weekly podcast where hosts dive deep into the world of manga from mainstream favorites to hidden gems that often go unnoticed. What started in 2014 as a show about Naoki Urasawa’s Billy Bat has grown into an ongoing conversation about the art, culture, and industry of manga.
Each episode blends casual discussion with thoughtful analysis. The hosts share what they’ve been reading or watching, cover news, and then move into segments like retrospectives, where they read and discuss an entire series from start to finish, or guest interviews with industry voices like translator Jocelyne Allen and journalist Deb Aoki. Together, they explore themes, storytelling, and even shifts in art styles, giving listeners a fuller appreciation of the medium.
What makes Manga Machinations special is the variety of perspectives the hosts bring. From dakazu’s knowledge of Japanese-only releases, to Darfox8’s love of anime classics, to seamus2389’s more critical approach, and Morgana’s expertise as the “Manga Maven,” the mix ensures that every episode is lively, informed, and entertaining. Whether you’re a casual fan or a dedicated reader looking for deeper discussion, Manga Machinations offers a smart and engaging way to experience manga.
Manga Mavericks podcast
Manga Mavericks is a podcast hosted by Colton and LumRanmaYasha that goes beyond simply reviewing manga, they dig into the medium and the industry behind it. Whether it’s breaking down the latest series, discussing news from publishers, or analysing how manga gets produced and marketed, their show is for listeners who want more than surface-level coverage.
They also run a full site with news, columns, reviews, interviews, and in-depth articles. From exploring indie and major imprints to spotlighting lesser-known works, Manga Mavericks covers a broad spectrum. If you ever wondered not only what manga is hot, but why, this show delivers that perspective.
If you’re a manga fan who cares about how the medium works, from publishing decisions to artistic trends, Manga Mavericks gives you insightful commentary, informed opinions, and the kind of details that add richer context to everything you read.
Sailor Manga podcast
Sailor Manga is a podcast dedicated mostly to shōjo manga, the romance, drama, and magical moments that define the genre. Each week, the hosts dive into new chapters, laugh over the wild twists, and gush about their favorite characters, couples, and storylines.
While the focus is on shōjo, the show is also about sharing the joy of manga in general, from heartfelt discussions to lighthearted reactions. It’s like sitting down with friends who love shōjo just as much as you do.
If you’re a fan of school romances, magical girls, or just the emotional rollercoaster that comes with shōjo, Sailor Manga is the perfect podcast to listen to.
Shonen Flop podcast
Shonen Flop is a podcast all about manga that didn’t quite make it. Each week, hosts David and Jordan dig into a different cancelled series from Shonen Jump and beyond, asking the big question: was it a hidden gem taken too soon, or was it truly a flop?
With a mix of humor, analysis, and genuine love for manga, the show explores what worked, what didn’t, and what could have been. From wild premises to forgotten favorites, you’ll get a deeper look at the ups and downs of the manga industry.
If you’ve ever been curious about the short-lived series that never made it big, or just want a fun, insightful manga podcast with two passionate fans, Shonen Flop is well worth the listen
Read right to left podcast
Welcome to Read Right-to-Left: a manga podcast from two fans hoping to discuss, celebrate and criticize the many, many things we read in our favorite hobby! (With a little fangirling thrown in the mix, too!!
Shojo & Tell podcast
Shojo & Tell is a podcast all about shōjo (and josei!) manga, each episode takes a deep look at one series, Ashley is joined by shōjo fans each time, and together they dig into the characters, themes, and moments that make these stories so special.
can’t stop talking about a manga you love, just recorded for everyone to enjoy.
Shōjo manga doesn’t always get the spotlight it deserves, especially compared to the big shōnen series, but Shojo & Tell is here to change that. If you want to celebrate magical girls, school romances, and everything else that makes shōjo and josei shine, this podcast is worth a listen.
Manga tak podcast
A Weekly Manga Podcast where host Mat explores the finest first volumes of manga, helping you discover your next favorite series and grow your collection. Each episode dives into what makes a title stand out, breaking down the art, storytelling, and themes that hook readers from the very start.
The show often features special guests, like creators and fellow manga fans, for deeper conversations.
Whether you’re brand new to manga or a seasoned collector, this podcast is all about guiding you to great reads, one first volume at a time.
Weekly Manga Recap podcast
Weekly Manga Recap is a podcast hosted by Nik “Y Ruler of Time” Freeman and Quinn “Rollo T” Larios where every week they dive into the biggest manga titles. They cover series like One Piece, Undead Unluck, World Trigger, Akane-Banashi, MarriageToxin, and plenty more, going through the newest chapters as they release.
Each episode is a mix of discussion, predictions, and commentary, with the hosts breaking down story beats, analyzing characters, and speculating on where things might go next.
It’s not always serious either, they’re known to go off on tangents about 90s/00s nostalgia or slip into bad celebrity impressions, which keeps the podcast lively and unpredictable.
Manga 4 Dummies
Manga4Dummies is a podcast where the hosts read and analyze some of the best manga series out there. Each episode takes a closer look at an arc, sometimes one, sometimes two or three, breaking it down in a way that’s easy to follow.
The discussions are spoiler-free, so you can listen without worrying about having a story ruined. Along the way, there’s plenty of humor and lighthearted moments, making it feel fun as well as informative.
It’s a podcast designed for reading along, discovering new series, and enjoying manga in a relaxed, entertaining way.
Shoujo Sundae podcast
Shoujo Sundae is a podcast made for anyone who loves shōjo anime and manga but hasn’t had a place to really talk about it. Hosted by Giana Luna and Chika Supreme, it’s designed to feel like a cozy ice cream shop where every episode is a new treat and you’re always welcome to join the conversation.
The hosts break down each series using playful segments like Soft Serve Summary, Sprinkles on Top, Floats Your Boat, Banana Split, Hot Fudge, and I Scream, You Scream. These categories let them dig into the story, themes, and characters while balancing fun with thoughtful analysis.
If you’re looking for a podcast that celebrates shōjo while also building a sense of community, Shoujo Sundae delivers a mix of warmth, humor, and insight. New episodes arrive every other Sunday, the perfect way to sweeten your week.
Shoujo Sundae podcast
Shoujo Sundae is a podcast made for anyone who loves shōjo anime and manga but hasn’t had a place to really talk about it. Hosted by Giana Luna and Chika Supreme, it’s designed to feel like a cozy ice cream shop where every episode is a new treat and you’re always welcome to join the conversation.
The hosts break down each series using playful segments like Soft Serve Summary, Sprinkles on Top, Floats Your Boat, Banana Split, Hot Fudge, and I Scream, You Scream. These categories let them dig into the story, themes, and characters while balancing fun with thoughtful analysis.
If you’re looking for a podcast that celebrates shōjo while also building a sense of community, Shoujo Sundae delivers a mix of warmth, humor, and insight. New episodes arrive every other Sunday, the perfect way to sweeten your week.
Enjoy listening to you now favourite manga podcasts
Now you can’t complain about having nothing to listen to on your daily commute or while running on a treadmill. These 12 manga podcasts have been updated recently, so you don’t need to worry about starting a dead show — and if you’re an anime fan, you know exactly how it feels to start season 1 only for season 2 to never come.
From action-packed shōnen to heartfelt shōjo and even under-the-radar indie titles, these podcasts cover it all. No matter what kind of manga you’re into, you’ll find a show that matches your taste.
If you enjoyed hearing your favorite manga being discussed, or discovered a new series you want to try, be sure to check out the best manga reading apps or give the manga recommendation tool a go.
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