The 2026 Ambie Awards, a distinguished event recognizing outstanding achievements in the audio industry, recently concluded with a celebrated podcast taking home the top honor. Among a competitive field of nominees, the unique true-crime and comedy series, titled "Wisecrack," was crowned Podcast of the Year, marking a significant milestone in its journey.
Produced by Tenderfoot TV and iHeartPodcasts, "Wisecrack" captivated audiences with its innovative blend of humor and investigative journalism. The series features British comedian Edd Hedges, who recounts a real-life homicide from his hometown through his stand-up routine, while journalist Jodi Tovay meticulously examines the details of the case. This compelling narrative approach allowed "Wisecrack" to surpass other popular contenders such as "Call Her Daddy," "Crime Junkie," "SmartLess," and "Pod Save America." Beyond its overall victory, "Wisecrack" also secured four additional accolades, including the award for Best Society and Culture Podcast, demonstrating its broad appeal and critical acclaim. In recognition of individual excellence, Pablo Torre, host of "Pablo Torre Finds Out," was honored as the Vanguard Podcaster of the Year.
The ceremony, which had been postponed due to a blizzard, was held at the Arlo Williamsburg in Brooklyn as part of the On Air Fest. Comedian and writer Wyatt Cenac skillfully hosted the event, presented by The Podcast Academy. In addition to competitive categories, special honors were bestowed upon industry veterans. Kara Swisher, known for her insightful podcasts "Pivot" and "On with Kara Swisher," received the Governors Award for her profound impact on the growth of the podcasting sector. Furthermore, Angela Yee presented the Impact Award posthumously to Reggie Ossé, the visionary host of "The Combat Jack Show" and co-founder of the Loud Speakers Network, acknowledging his enduring influence on listeners. His wife, Akim Vann, accepted the award on his behalf, highlighting his lasting legacy in the audio world.
These awards not only celebrate the creative talent and dedication within the podcasting community but also underscore the evolving landscape of audio storytelling. Each winning podcast, from compelling narratives to insightful interviews and comedic relief, contributes to a vibrant and diverse ecosystem. This recognition serves as an inspiration, encouraging creators to continue pushing boundaries and delivering content that engages, entertains, and enriches listeners globally.