The 12 best podcasts of 2016, according to Apple

Apple's comment: "No one turns history on its head like Malcolm Gladwell. We love his provocative take on everything from satire to Wilt Chamberlain."

Apple's comment: "We were incredibly inspired by hearing the founders of Spanx, Instagram, and other startups explain how they made it big."

Apple's comment: "This year's huge breakthrough in the Jacob Wetterling abduction case fueled a fascinating look at why it went unsolved for decades."

Apple's comment: "Leadership, fitness, military history—retired Navy SEAL Jocko and his guests turn any topic into a riveting life lesson."

Apple's comment: "Anna and her pal Sim have so much fun hanging out and chatting with celebrity friends, we can't resist joining in."

Apple's comment: "With their awesome insights and discussion, NPR's political team kept us up to speed on a truly unpredictable election."

Apple's comment: "After one episode, we adored this show like its hosts adore twisted tales and catchphrases. Their gabfests are always entertaining."

Apple's comment: "We'll crash this party anytime. Jessica, Phoebe, and their hilarious guests bring enough energy and fearlessness for 10 podcasts."

Apple's comment: "Powerful and thought-provoking, the story of Elizabeth Andes' unsolved murder stuck with us long after the final episode."

Apple's comment: "For the kind of deep political analysis that goes state by state and stat by stat, we love listening to Nate Silver and crew."

Apple's comment: "Jonathan Goldstein's clever look at people's hidden burdens (their "heavyweight") is as captivating as it is moving."

Apple's comment: "The hosts' call-it-like-they-see-it sports talk made PMT our perfect companion through the Olympics, the World Series, and more."