One of the things I dedicate my time to is listening to podcasts. It’s easy for me and provides a great outlet for learning, understanding, and keeping your mind active. I used to listen to music all day, everyday and got so tired of hearing the same old songs. Podcasts release new episodes daily and are always giving me new perspectives on the world and daily life. For me, it’s easy to listen to podcasts. I drive about 30-45 minutes to work every day which is the perfect time to connect my phone and stream one of my (many) favorite podcasts through Spotify. I also will tune into certain podcasts during lunch (I’m listening to one as we speak) and when I’m relaxing after a long day. Of course, that means I listen to a variety of podcast themes. I don’t listen to the same topics over-and-over again or else I’d end up in that state of boredom my playlists were leaving me in.
If you listen to podcasts then you know why I’m such a fanatic. There are few things that can keep my attention during long drives, hours at the gym, and really everywhere. The number one thing for me, naturally, is listening to a podcast with hosts that keep me entertained. They’re honest, sometimes humorous, and totally conversational. If it seems forced it is not for me. My favorite episodes are by people with real experiences who aren’t afraid to talk about their various successes and challenges along the way.
With no further ado, check out my The Best Podcasts (aka My Favorites) from 2017!
Motivation + Business
1 – The School of Greatness by Lewis Howes | Spotify: Listen Here
Lewis Howes has an awesome story and personality that comes through in his podcasts. They really make you think about where you are, where you’re going, and helps you to identify that every-lingering “WHY” we all hope to uncover. Listeners are always leaving this podcast great reviews and it’s obvious why that is! I have been so inspired by many of these episodes and listen to them on a weekly basis; more-so recently. This is my most streamed in this category now so it’s easily my #1.
2 – The Dave Ramsey Show by Ramsey Solutions | Spotify: Listen Here
This show is a bit different than Lewis Howes. It makes you really think and provides great advice on a lot of different topics. Dave is matter-of-fact and approaches every situation carefully when evaluating. He definitely puts the time into each of his episodes and considers what the show guest has to say! I started listening to The Dave Ramsey Show after having listened to Ramsey Solutions EntreLeadership Podcast (below). Great for life advice and building a better you!
3 – The EntreLeadership Podcast by Ramsey Solutions | Spotify: Listen Here
One of my all-time favorite podcasts, The EntreLeadership Podcast. I’ve always been really interested in entrepreneurship and the personality traits entrepreneurs have. This podcast interviews business owners and leaders to get their insights and to have them explain their stories and how they got to where they are. The show has grown so much since I started listening and I’ve learned a lot about leadership and building a business from listening to it so frequently.
4 – Girlboss Radio by Sophia Amoruso | Spotify: Listen Here
Every week Sophia Amoruso has a new podcast on Girlboss Radio on which she interviews girlbosses from all different backgrounds. These are inspirational women who have so much to share with others like myself who are hoping to take on the world with a sense of confidence and excitement! There is so much to learn from the women who come onto this show and talk about everything from their beginnings, work-life balance, what their experiences have taught them, etc.
Health + Lifestyle
1 – Bon Appétit Foodcast by Bon Appétit / Panoply | Spotify: Listen Here
Are you hungry? Okay, maybe not. Bon Appetit’s ‘Foodcast’ covers a variety of topics that relate to the restaurant industry, professionals, and straight up food. They approach current events from an industry perspective and have very helpful advice for anyone looking to learn more about the industry or who binges on Food Network (@ME). There are exciting guests who come onto the show to share about their take on the episode of the day. Wannabe foodies, I got you.
2 – The Model Health Show by Shawn Stevenson | Spotify: Listen Here
Shawn has a fun podcast with a unique approach to health and fitness. He uses his own experiences and others as the base for his podcast episodes. I’ve learned so much about the body, health, and fitness that I didn’t know before. The guests that come on the show are generally people who are new to me that always keep my interest. Just from listening to this podcast I have become more aware of my own health and fitness and what I can do to improve!
3 – Happier by Gretchen Rubin | Spotify: Listen Here
Gretchen Rubin has a sweet podcast on which she’ll bring family to talk about being happier overall. She talks about small ways you can work on improving your happiness every day! The first episode I listened to featured her niece and sister and I loved their mix of personalities. It’s a great podcast for anyone looking to become a happier person and learn to be more self aware. I was just introduced to this and can’t wait to continue listening to the latest episodes.
Storytelling + Narrative
1 – This Is Actually Happening by Whit Missildine | Spotify: Listen Here
I don’t listen to many storytelling or narrative podcasts, but this one deserves an honorable mention. Though this certainly isn’t about being ‘happier’ as Gretchen Rubin’s podcast is above, it makes you more aware of how good you may have it. The show guests have incredible stories that are extremely eye-opening. I can’t stop listening once I start and have to seriously drag myself away from it. Something about the episodes is so fascinating and shocking that they keep the listener intrigued.
What are some of your favorite podcasts to listen to and where?
I always intend on listening to Podcasts but never seem to find the time. Listening whilst driving is a great idea and I will definitely look up Girl Boss Radio. Thanks for this! x
Sophia Amoruso is one of my favorites! You’ll definitely enjoy Girl Boss Radio if you like her 🙂 The book is also a worthwhile read.
I love Bon Appétit Foodcast by Bon Appétit! Since I’m a foodie, I often hear about this. Great list too!
Thank you! Yes, it is a really fun one to listen to and I love how they spin different topics. Bon Appétit is my favorite food mag by far.
I listen to a podcast every night before bed so this is an ideal post! This is Actually Happening sounds right up my street.
The school of greatness is an amazing one, love listening to podcasts, especially mindset and motivation ones 🙂
Yes that is one of my all-time favorites! I listen to it every week without fail.
Thanks for the recommendations!