Was 2019 the ‘Year of the Podcast’? It very well could be, because now more than ever, small business owners, entrepreneurs, and everyone in between have fallen in love with the podcast’s ability to offer entertainment, information, and inspiration everywhere we go.

So it’s not surprising that a recent survey (PDF) shows that 51% of the US population has listened to a podcast and 32% have listened to a podcast in the last month. Experts place the current number of podcasts at about 800,000, with a combined total of about 30 million episodes as of December 2019.

With hundreds of thousands of podcasts to dive into, the episode that could change your life or your business is probably out there already – and all you have to do is listen. But it can be hard for the time-strapped business leader to sift through what’s available to find some value. So we’ve combed through the multitudes to make some recommendations.

Below, we’ve collected some of the best podcasts for business-leaders in 2019. But first, are you wondering how to listen? Fortunately, if you have a mobile phone, you already have a podcast player (and subscribing to a podcast is free and easy).

for iPhone
for Android

The Podcasts app for iOS provides easy access to popular and featured podcasts using the navigation icons at the bottom of the app.

To subscribe to a podcast, tap Subscribe on the page for that podcast. Now – you will automatically get the latest episodes. To play a podcast, tap on any episode. To download an episode, tap the iCloud icon in the episode list.

You can manage your subscriptions and play podcast episodes in My Podcasts.

To learn more, see iOS Podcasts Support.

If you’re using an Android phone, there are a multitude of options available. The most obvious (and popular choice) for this is Google Podcasts. But other popular options include Stitcher, Pocket Casts, and Spotify – especially if you already use the app to stream music.

For these apps, the process is generally the same – simply browse the available podcasts and subscribe to the ones you like the most.

From our Friends at the Mann Group: Manndatory Listening

How big of an impact does in-store music have for retailers? How do you hire the best people – and keep them motivated? What about your Net Promoter Score….are you on top of that?

For over 16 years, The Mann Group has helped specialty retailers and outdoor brands navigate these questions (and more). Now, Manndatory Listening combines that experience with voices from across the spectrum. The result? A podcast for retailers like you – focused on everything from strategic planning to reigniting your passion.

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Recommended Episodes:

All the Small Things: Creating Customer Experience Culture

Sounds Good: Brian Hawkins on Music in Retail

Before Breakfast Podcast with Laura Vanderkam

“Start your morning with productivity advice that will take your day from great to awesome.”

Each episode of Before Breakfast brings you timely advice focused on helping you make the most of your time at home and at work.

Hosted by the bestselling author of I know how She Does it: How Successful Women Make the Most of their Time (2012), Off the Clock: Feel Less Busy While Getting More Done (2018), and more

How I Built This with Guy Raz

Making nearly every list out there, How I Built This is a deep dive into the background and history of many of the world’s most successful companies. What makes them tick, and what can you take away? Guy Raz creates a compelling environment for CEOs and founders to share their inspiration and vision.

The Tim Ferriss Show with Tim Ferriss

Another popular choice on everyone’s list, The Tim Ferriss Show focuses on productivity topics with an eclectic guest list. Tim, famous for writing The 4-Hour Work Week, carries on fascinating conversations with guests as he unpacks their personal growth tips and tricks.

Breaking Down Your Business with Jill Salzman & Brad Farris

Ever wonder, “How do I make more money without going crazy?” or “Should I charge by the hour or the project?” – this is the podcast for you. From the small questions that itch at you everyday to the big questions that permeate every aspect of your business – Jill and Brad cover it all with humor and clarity.

Unthinkable with Jay Acunzo

Unthinkable explores business people who aim to challenge conventional wisdom. Apple podcasts says of the host in the show’s summary section, “travels to the far reaches of the business world to dig up stories you’ve never heard, revealing ideas you’ve never considered.”

Think Again with Jason Gots

Think Again takes smart people and throws topics at them that they aren’t expecting. The show summary says, “Some of the best conversations happen when we’re pushed outside of our comfort zones.”

Lead to Win with Michael Hyatt & Megan Hyatt Miller

Lead to Win with Michael Hyatt is a podcast filled with advice from Michael’s years as a CEO and motivational speaker. It’s aimed toward traditional businesspeople, but provides advice for successful businesses and better leadership.

Planet Money

The creators said it best: Imagine you could call up a friend and say, “Meet me at the bar and tell me what’s going on with the economy.” Now imagine that’s actually a fun evening.

That’s what Planet Money is all about – and it promises to keep thoughtful business owners (and everyone else) up to speed.