Looking back at the past 20 years, few shows have changed podcasting more fundamentally than Serial. Upon its release, it became pure zeitgeist, spreading rapidly through word of mouth and reaching over 5 million downloads in its first six weeks. Listeners followed along to unravel the story of Adnan Syed and Hae Min Lee, a case that Sarah Koenig and her team reported in real time, not knowing the ending even as they were making it. Hundreds of series have emulated Serial’s approach to long-form storytelling, but its first season still stands alone for its innovative approach and dedication to craft. Since then, the show has evolved into a home for high-quality long-form audio investigative reporting, with seasons covering everything from the criminal justice system to Guantanamo Bay. Serial took true-crime series mainstream, and within the genre it inspired, it still is among the best ever made.

You can find the first episode of each season below.