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7 min read

The Best Business Podcasts For Startups And Entrepreneurs

Over the past decade, podcasts have become one of the most popular forms of audio entertainment in the UK, with over 19.1 million podcast listeners in the UK as of 2021. As the popularity of podcasts increases, it’s estimated that by 2026, there will be an audience of 28 million podcast listeners. So, what’s all the fuss about? And how can you use business podcasts to your advantage as a business owner/entrepreneur?

Let’s start with a bit more data…

Podcasts are still most widespread amongst young audiences, with close to 40% of UK listeners aged 26-35 listening to podcasts on a weekly basis. A recent survey showed smartphones are the most commonly used device to listen to podcasts, with a large share of UK audiences stating that they primarily listen to podcasts while driving or travelling. It seems that podcasts’ ability to fit in with daily lives are a great way for listeners to learn, be inspired, entertained, and generally improve how they spend their time.

Back in 2018, we rounded up 9 Unmissable Podcasts for Startups and Entrepreneurs – at the time the UK podcast audience was 11 million. Now at 19.1 million, there’s been lots of newcomers to the podcast party. Whether you’re looking to learn more about marketing, develop your leadership skills, be inspired by success stories, or listen to other small business owners simply having a chat over a cuppa – you can be sure to find a number of business podcasts that meet your needs and interests.

Here are our business podcast recommendations:

 

Business mastermind podcast

1. The Business Mastermind Podcast

  • Host: Gavin Preston
  • Episodes available: 245
  • iTunes rating: 4.8*
  • Avg. episode duration: 40 mins
  • Style: Informative / Interview

Why you should listen:

This business podcast is specifically designed for small-to-medium-sized businesses. Gavin Preston interviews down-to-earth, relatable business people from a wide range of sectors. Topics include lessons learned, growth strategies, and expert insight. These conversations are interspersed with episodes from Gavin (author of Survive And Thrive: How to Secure, Scale and Succeed in Business), as he shares the growth strategies and insights from working with clients across numerous sectors. If you’re looking for insight, strategy and action points to help you scale your business, then this podcast makes a great one-stop-shop for busy entrepreneurs looking for tangible takeaways from those who have been there and got the t-shirt.

Episode examples:

What others are saying:

“A great business strategist! Gavin has a good mix of interviews and monologues on his podcast, thoroughly relatable guy and great guests on the show. Well worth the download.”

“Gavin engages with a varied range of business thinkers to great effect. I love the style, with Gavin allowing his guests room to get their messages over. A great follow!”

Listen (via iTunes)

 

Eat Sleep Work Repeat

2. Eat Sleep Work Repeat

  • Host: Bruce Daisley
  • Episodes available: 145
  • iTunes rating: 4.8*
  • Avg. episode duration: 50 mins
  • Style: Information / Interview

Why you should listen:

This podcast focuses on happiness and work culture, making it a great listen if you’re looking for ways to improve your job. Daisley interviews psychologists, neuroscientists and workplace experts, with a strong focus on science to address the questions, ‘how do we make work better?’ and ‘why do we behave that way?’ – An Apple #1 Business Podcast.

Episode examples:

What others are saying:

“The best host in career podcasts. He has an opinion, asks real questions, knows his subject and has excellent guests.”

“This is probably the most thought-provoking and work life-changing podcast I have found. Every episode inspires me to make important tweaks to my work unit. Bruce chooses the most cutting edge issues and uses his masterful interview skills to get to the heart of the matter.”

Listen (via iTunes)

 

Conversations of Inspiration

3. Conversations of Inspiration

  • Host: Holly Tucker
  • Episodes available: 188
  • iTunes rating: 4.9*
  • Avg. episode duration: 1 hour (shorter ‘lightbulb moments’ approx. 10 mins)
  • Style: Interview

Why you should listen:

As founder of notonthehighstreet and Holly & Co, Holly Tucker MBE has dedicated many years to growing and empowering small businesses around the UK. In Conversations of Inspiration, Holly talks to a new founder each week to hear the highs and lows they’ve encountered while building their business. The perfect podcast for those looking for inspirational success stories, while also on the hunt for some experienced insight and advice.

Episode examples:

What others are saying:

“This podcast is my go to! You can always count on Holly and her Guests leaving you inspired. The people who Holly brings in speak so honestly about their journey and it is so relatable. If there is one podcast you give a listen, this should be it!”

“Love these podcasts – so inspiring but also relatable. The Knoops and Anya Hindmarch episodes are my favourite so far, loved them!”

Listen (via iTunes)

 

Unpublished A podcast series for creatives

4. Unpublished: A podcast series for creatives

  • Hosts: Amie McNee & James Winestock
  • Episodes available: 68
  • iTunes rating: 4.8*
  • Avg. episode duration: 20-40 mins
  • Style: Information

Why you should listen:

This podcast is designed to be a place for creatives at all stages of their journeys, with hosts Amie and James talking about what it’s like to build a creative practice from scratch. Amie has self-published four non-fiction books and a historical-fiction and now makes a full-time living as a creative. James is an amateur writer, specialising in fantasy and science fiction novels. If you’re a creative who’s fed up with podcasts that focus on lives of famous creatives and who wants to learn about building a thriving creative practice, then give Unpublished a listen.

Episode examples:

 What others are saying:

“I love this podcast, I find it super inspiring and uplifting, hearing about struggles other creatives have and looking at those in a different way. Worth a listen for anyone looking to grow their mindset.”

“I’ve never listened to a podcast before in my life but since listening to Unpublished I’m now hooked and it has set the bar HIGH. I’m a fine artist but I feel like a lot of content applies to me and it’s also exposed me to new exciting areas of creativity I haven’t previously considered. It’s simple. Raw. Fresh. True. Real. I value the honesty, inclusiveness and relaxed discussions which feel intimate and extremely relevant- nurturing, inspiring, funny, challenging. All I want is more. I hope they continue for the considerable future. There is SO much to discuss and I am here to listen.”

Listen (via iTunes)

 

The Strengths Guy

5. The Strengths Guy

  • Host: Paul Brewerton
  • Episodes available: 180
  • iTunes rating: 5*
  • Avg. episode duration: 10 mins
  • Style: Information

Why you should listen:

Occupational psychologist Paul Brewerton covers topics that will inspire and educate listeners to get the most from both work and life, every day. Each podcast is packed with tips and tools to help you get the best out of your working week. Most episodes are approximately 10 minutes long, offering quick, bite-size pieces of information and inspiration to those who are looking to learn but are strapped for time.

Episode examples:

What others are saying:

“Thoroughly enjoyable series. Thoughtful, insightful, actionable. I wish every 5 min investment paid back as much!”

“Great podcast! Been listening for over a year now and it’s really helped me to develop in my career and become much more self-aware. I recommend this to anyone who is looking to be their best self in and out of work!”

Listen (via iTunes)

 

The Diary of a CEO 

6. The Diary of a CEO 

  • Host: Steven Bartlett
  • Episodes available: 217
  • iTunes rating: 4.8*
  • Avg. episode duration: 1 hour 20 mins
  • Style: Diary

Why you should listen:

The diary format of Steven Bartlett’s number one podcast offers listeners a raw honesty that most ‘interviews’ don’t give you. As he sits down with some of the world’s most influential people, experts, and thinkers, Bartlett gathers insights that will make him, and his listeners’, lives more enjoyable, successful, and fulfilled.

Bartlett’s own journey to success at such a young age is an inspirational one, particularly for the next generation of ambitious entrepreneurs. After dropping out of university when he was 22, Bartlett co-founded social media marketing agency Social Chain in 2014, which he set up with his two friends from his bedroom in Manchester. Social Chain now has a collective reach of over 200 million millennials across its platforms, with a global portfolio that includes Apple, McDonalds, and the BBC.

After leaving Social Chain in 2020, Bartlett released a bestselling book and continues taking his podcast, Diary of a CEO, from strength to strength, which he launched in 2017. Many will know Steven for his role as an investor on Dragon’s Den – which he joined at just 28, making him the Den’s youngest ever dragon.

Bartlett’s podcast made our 2018 list, but with so many insightful episodes since then, it deserved another shout-out.

Episode examples:

What others are saying:

“I started listening to this podcast a few weeks ago and I love it. I set up my own business last year and only in the last few months have I been able to leave the 9-5 and work solely on my VA business. This podcast is interesting and inspiring for any other self-employed workers and entrepreneurs. Keeps me motivated and thinking of my goals, future plans, and my why. I’m a similar age to Steven so it’s great to hear his life story in line with mine. Also reading Happy Sexy Millionaire.”

“Just started listening to this podcast. Love the raw honesty. It is a true reflection of how life as an entrepreneur/business owner really is. Hard work but addictive!”

Listen (via iTunes)

 

Design Beat 

7. Design Beat 

  • Host: Lauren Kunz & Steph Martello
  • Episodes available: 44
  • iTunes rating: 5*
  • Avg. episode duration: 30-50 mins
  • Style: Interview

Why you should listen:

Stories, tips, and advice from creative women in the design industry who dance to the beat of their own drum! – All designed to encourage listeners to go for it, too! Lauren is a surface pattern and web designer, step is a do-everything-creative graphic designer.

Example episodes:

What others are saying:

“Love this podcast! I’ve found so many new favourite artists and designers to follow from this podcast. It inspires me to jump into my art more, and is just a fun upbeat listen. The only problem is now all I want to do is quit my day job so I have more time for making…”

“As a current art and design student, this podcast is such a great resource! I leave each week feeling inspired to create and excited to work hard to become like these amazing designers. Lauren and Steph are SO FUN and they are asking the exact questions I have for these creative giants!”

Listen (via iTunes)

 

My Small Business & Me

8. My Small Business & Me

  • Host: Rona Wheeldon
  • Episodes available: 61
  • iTunes rating: 5*
  • Avg. episode duration: 1 hour
  • Style: Interview

Why you should listen:

If you’re a budding entrepreneur looking for inspiration to start your first business, or are already a small business owner looking for an inspirational boost, then this is a podcast worth listening to. The podcast offers two elements – your small business, and you. Host Rona (from Flowerona) speaks to entrepreneurs who share their insights into what it takes to run a successful, sustainable and profitable business. Industry experts in web design, branding, marketing, photography, social media and coaching all provide insights that will help you maximise the potential of your small business. From a ‘you’ perspective, Rona speaks to specialists who can help you both mentally and physically – from fear, confidence, and time management to personal styling, meditation, and aromatherapy. Give this podcast a listen if you’re looking at all elements that will make you a successful and happy entrepreneur.

Example episodes:

What others are saying:

“I look forward to Rona’s podcast each week. I find it so engaging and interesting listening to everyone’s unique story which also inspires me to continue with my business journey.”

“Rona’s choice of Podcast subjects and her soothing interview style are fabulous. She brings out the best in her guests with her relaxed and friendly style. Listen up and see for yourself!”

Listen (via iTunes)

 

The How of Business Start, Run, Grow a Small Business

9. The How of Business: Start, Run, Grow a Small Business

  • Host: Henry Lopez
  • Episodes available: 432
  • iTunes rating: 4.7*
  • Avg. episode duration: 30-45 mins
  • Style: Information / Interview

Why you should listen:

A weekly show dedicated specifically for small business owners, offering actionable advice and techniques for starting, running and growing your small business. Each episode either discusses a business topic, or interviews an existing business owner or business service producer. Host Henry Lopez also draws on the experience he’s acquired during both his corporate and entrepreneurial careers.

Example episodes:

What others are saying:

“Great insight on how to become financially independent. Really enjoyed learning from each guest and hearing about their journeys, great podcast!”

“Each episode is filled with comprehensive, step by step information relevant for entrepreneurs and small business owners everywhere! Henry is a skilled, experienced, and inspiring host! Highly recommend!”

Listen (via iTunes)

 

The Growth Show

10. The Growth Show

  • Host: Meghan Keaney Anderson – Vice President of Marketing at HubSpot
  • Episodes available: 209
  • iTunes rating: 4.7*
  • Avg. episode duration: 25-30 mins
  • Style: Interview

Why you should listen: If you’re interested to hear how top executives have been able to grow and build a world-class business, The Growth Show is the podcast for you. Each episode explores the inspiring stories behind how people grow a business, an idea or a movement.

Example episodes:

What others are saying:

“Fantastic variety, great and simple explanations. Everyone interested in marketing should listen to it.”

“Down to earth, open, honest thinking from a practical and creative stance.”

“Still a fabulous resource on my journey in marketing.”

Listen (via iTunes)

 


 

Let’s not forget about audiobooks!

Audiobooks can serve a similar purpose to podcasts – it all depends on what you’re looking for as to what fits best. Podcasts tend to be shorter, more conversational, and cover a certain topic per episode, which follows a regular schedule that listeners can subscribe to. While audiobooks are exactly what you’d expect – a book in audio form! Find the right book for you and you might find that the audio version fits in better with your lifestyle, helping you learn key takeaways while you’re on-the-move rather than when you find the time to pick up the physical version. For audiobook inspiration, take a look at our Summer Reading List for Business Owners and Entrepreneurs – most of which have audio versions.

 

Start your own!

If your target audience loves a good podcast, and there’s a gap in your industry, why not start your own podcast? It’s a great way to show expertise, get your brand out there and grow an audience. Make sure you have time to dedicate to it, and invest in good recording equipment and marketing for it. Don’t expect overnight success but stick with it, focus on quality and promotion, and you’re giving it every chance of success to support your small business.

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Jenny Lambert

Jenny Lambert is a freelance writer, interiors blogger and Etsy shop owner with extensive experience working in marketing, digital and publishing roles.

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