Learning has never been so entertaining— or so cheap. Whether you’re one of the 67 million Americans who listen to podcasts regularly or are just now tuning in, sorting the many subscription options can be overwhelming.
If you’re in the business of business, check out these programs to keep you on the cutting edge of issues, ideas, and innovations. They’re the perfect companions for commuting, finishing weekend chores, or filtering through your Monday-morning emails.
Source: niemanlab.org
1. The Learning Leader Show
Leadership is a broad and evolving topic, so it naturally makes a great podcast centerpiece. You don’t have to be a supervisor or CEO to enjoy The Learning Leader Show with Ryan Hawk; its topics—ranging from the practical (e.g., hiring right, working smart) to the psychological (e.g., being self-aware, showing gratitude)—cover skills for any level of leader. In episode 207, “How a Rookie Can Become a Multiplier,” byu Marriott alumna Liz Wiseman is the featured guest.
2. Building a Story Brand
If you have customers of any sort, you need to listen to Building a Story Brand with Donald Miller. Many of those interviewed are household names, and all are experts in getting people talking about their brands. The topics will spark ideas for both your professional and personal pursuits. Check out episode 24, “The Best of 2016,” to sample this podcast.
3. How I Built This
Want to hear the backstories of Patagonia, Clif Bar, or Five Guys? It may sound like a podcast for DIYers, but NPR’s How I Built This is aimed at the entrepreneurially minded. Episodes feature recognizable brands and business leaders, such as Kate Spade and Richard Branson. Millennials will appreciate the 27 March 2017 podcast: “Power Rangers: Haim Saban.”
4. Marketplace
If short and sweet is your style, Marketplace with Kai Ryssdal is the podcast for you. In less than twenty-seven minutes, this podcast catches listeners up on business news and stories that make great conversation starters for your next awkward pause. Bonus: it’s published every weekday. The episode “Cracked Phone Screens Are a $4 Billion Business” (7 June 2017) is sure to hook you.
5. Freakonomics Radio
When Freakonomics debuted in 2005, it quickly became a must-read book. Now listeners are embracing the Freakonomics Radio podcast with equal enthusiasm. Stephen Dubner hosts weekly conversations that dive into the sociology of money. “Why Are We Still Using Cash?” (29 September 2016) will make you look at hundred-dollar bills in a whole new light.
6. HBR IdeaCast
With its captivating academic angle, IdeaCast from the Harvard Business Review lets listeners be students again. Even better? There won’t be a test on it at the end of the semester. Check out episode 568, “Break Out of Your Managerial Bubble,” which features byu Marriott alum and former professor Hal Gregersen. Another notable episode: number 345, “Can You ‘Manage’ Your Family?”
7. Manager Tools and Career Tools
Created by management consultants, Manager Tools and its sister podcast, Career Tools, cover day-to-day office tips: how to scan a résumé, run a staff meeting, and give a perfect handshake. Check out the Career Tools episode “Working with Interns” (26 May 2016) or the Manager Tools episode “No Second Emails” (11 September 2016).
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Article written by Emily Edmonds
