15 Best Motivational Podcasts to Enhance Your Life or Brand

By Intelligent Relations Team

March 7, 2024

Author's Page

No one is a human dynamo all the time. 

You need the occasional fire lit under your backside. 

Incorporating a motivational podcast into your regular media consumption is a helpful and practical way to get your requisite dose of get-up-and-go! 

That’s because these powerful tools serve as virtual mentors. The best motivational podcasts feature renowned speakers, thought leaders, and everyday heroes. They share their transformative journeys that fuel your inspiration and stoke ambition. 

So, if you’re interested in improving your productivity or making a guest appearance to share your leadership expertise — motivational podcasts are the answer. 

This article highlights the best motivational podcasts for instilling resilience and igniting passion. 

It explores the unique perspectives and actionable insights that energize listeners who want to live their best life.

For convenience, we’ve broken our podcasts down into five categories:

• Best Motivational Podcasts for Happiness 
• Best Motivational Podcasts for Productivity 
• Best Motivational Podcasts for Personal Growth 
• Best Motivational Podcasts for Women 
• Best Motivational Podcasts for Health & Wellness 

3 Best Motivational Podcasts for Happiness

Need the motivation to find your own happiness? The best motivational podcasts for happiness map out strategies for finding and maintaining happiness.

You can use these podcasts to provide expert insights on the science of happiness. Or you can listen to these podcasts to hear heartwarming stories of personal triumph. 

It doesn’t matter if you’re seeking useful tips for enhancing your well-being or in need of a mood boost. These 3 top motivational podcasts are tailored to ignite joy and inspire a happier, more fulfilling life.

The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos invites listeners on a journey to uncover the science behind leading a happier life. 

Hosted by Dr. Laurie Santos, a professor of psychology and cognitive science at Yale University, this is one of the best motivational podcasts that explores the latest research and practical strategies for cultivating happiness and well-being.

Through engaging storytelling, expert interviews, and actionable insights, Dr. Santos breaks down common misconceptions about happiness. Plus, she offers evidence-based techniques to enhance mental and emotional resilience. 

Whether diving into the psychology of gratitude or dissecting the habits of truly content individuals, The Happiness Lab is a trusted guide for anyone seeking to live a more fulfilling and joyful life.

• Host: Dr. Laurie Santos
• Pitch Dr. Laurie Santos
• Episode Length: 20-60 Minutes
• Episode Schedule: Every Monday
• Apple Rating: 4.7
• Spotify Rating: 4.9

Ten Percent Happier with Dan Harris

Ten Percent Happier with Dan Harris blends mindfulness practices with real-world applications. 

Hosted by Dan Harris, a former ABC News anchor turned meditation advocate, this motivational podcast features conversations with leading experts and practitioners in the fields of mindfulness, meditation, and personal development. 

Through candid discussions and practical advice, Harris explores how mindfulness helps individuals navigate the complexities of modern life, reduce stress, and cultivate greater happiness. 

By tackling topics like anxiety, productivity, or relationships, Ten Percent Happier offers valuable insights and tools to help listeners find greater peace and fulfillment amidst the chaos of daily life.

• Host: Dan Harris
• Pitch Ten Percent Happier
• Episode Length: 6-60 Minutes 
• Episode Schedule: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
• Apple Rating: 4.6
• Spotify Rating: 4.9

Happier with Gretchen Rubin

Happier with Gretchen Rubin is a delightful, motivational podcast dedicated to exploring the art and science of happiness and habits. 

Hosted by bestselling author Gretchen Rubin and her sister Elizabeth Craft, this podcast offers insightful anecdotes and actionable tips for leading a happier, more fulfilling life.

With a unique blend of humor and wisdom, Rubin and Craft share personal experiences and research-backed strategies to help listeners cultivate positive habits, foster deeper connections, and embrace joy in their daily lives. 

Whether discussing small changes that can make a big impact or exploring the importance of self-awareness, Happier with Gretchen Rubin is a refreshing and uplifting guide to living your best life.

• Hosts: Gretchen Rubin
• Pitch Gretchen Rubin
• Episode Length: 20-40 Minutes (Wed, Sat), 5 Minutes (Mon)
• Episode Schedule: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays
• Apple Rating: 4.7
• Spotify Rating: 4.8

3 Best Motivational Podcasts for Productivity

We all need a little jolt of inspiration from time to time. 

And the right motivational podcast is just the thing to reinvigorate the creative energy and enhanced efficiency needed to propel you toward greater success.  

These three best motivational podcasts for productivity cover everything from expert advice on time management to workflow optimization and triumph in the face of adversity. 

They offer a wealth of resources to help you harness your potential and boost your productivity in both professional and personal endeavors.

The 5 AM Miracle: Healthy Productivity for High Achievers

The 5 AM Miracle: Healthy Productivity for High Achievers is dedicated to optimizing productivity and well-being for those driven to achieve excellence. 

Hosted by productivity expert Jeff Sanders, this is one of the best motivational podcasts that explores the transformative power of early mornings and intentional living. 

Through practical tips, expert interviews, and personal anecdotes, Sanders guides listeners to: 

• Accomplish Ambitious Goals
• Cultivate Healthy Habits
• Maximize Potential

From time management strategies to insights on peak performance and holistic wellness, The 5 AM Miracle empowers high achievers to unlock their full potential and thrive in every aspect of their lives.

• Host: Jeff Sanders
• Pitch The 5 AM Miracle  
• Episode Length: 30-60 Minutes 
• Episode Schedule: Mondays and Thursdays 
• Apple Rating: 4.6
• Spotify Rating: 4.6

The Productivity Show

The Productivity Show by Asian Efficiency is a powerhouse podcast that helps individuals boost their productivity and efficiency. 

Hosts Thanh Pham and Brooks Duncan offer actionable strategies, insightful interviews, and practical tips to optimize workflow and achieve peak performance. 

The Productivity Show provides guidance for professionals and entrepreneurs who want to: 

• Implement Effective Productivity Systems
• Master Time Management Techniques
• Maximize Focus and Concentration 

With a focus on simplicity, effectiveness, and real-world application, Pham and Duncan equip listeners with the tools and mindset needed to overcome obstacles and accomplish goals in an increasingly demanding world.

• Hosts: Thanh Pham and Brooks Duncan
• Pitch The Productivity Show 
• Episode Length: 4-60 Minutes 
• Episode Schedule: Mondays and Wednesdays
• Apple Rating: 4.6
• Spotify Rating: 4.2

Beyond the To-Do List

Beyond the To-Do List breaks down the intricacies of productivity and personal development. 

With more than 10 years of productivity podcasting experience, host Erik Fisher goes beyond mere task management to explore the underlying principles and mindset shifts necessary for true effectiveness. 

Through engaging interviews with top experts, authors, and entrepreneurs, Fisher uncovers key insights and strategies for: 

• Achieving Meaningful Goals
• Prioritization
• Focus

If you’re looking to master time-blocking techniques, overcome procrastination, or strike a healthy work-life balance, Beyond the To-Do List delivers the wisdom and inspiration to help listeners prosper in their professional and personal lives.

• Host: Erik Fisher
• Pitch Beyond the To-Do List 
• Episode Length: 40-60 Minutes
• Episode Schedule: Every Monday
• Apple Rating: 4.8
• Spotify Rating: 4.6

3 Best Motivational Podcasts for Personal Growth

Let’s face it, there’s always room for improvement. 

Luckily, there are motivational podcasts that cater to personal growth, offering a wealth of resources to help individuals unlock their full potential through inspirational storytelling and pragmatic pointers. 

Tune in to these best motivational podcasts personal growth podcasts and become a better you!

How to Fail with Elizabeth Day 

How to Fail with Elizabeth Day is a compelling motivational podcast that reframes failure as a catalyst for growth and resilience. 

Hosted by award-winning journalist and author Elizabeth Day, this show features candid conversations with notable guests who share their experiences of failure and the valuable lessons learned.

Through vulnerability and authenticity, Day explores the universal human experience of setbacks, offering empathy, humor, and wisdom to listeners navigating their own challenges. 

With each episode, How to Fail celebrates the inherent beauty and opportunity found within life’s inevitable stumbles, inspiring a profound shift in perspective towards failure as a pathway to personal and professional growth.

• Host: Elizabeth Day
• Pitch Elizabeth Day 
• Episode Length: 40-60 Minutes 
• Episode Schedule: Every Wednesday
• Apple Rating: 4.8
• Spotify Rating: 4.9

The Science of Success

The Science of Success is a captivating exploration of human potential and achievement rooted in scientific research. Host Matt Bodnar examines the psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral science behind success and fulfillment. 

Through thought-provoking interviews with leading experts, authors, and entrepreneurs, Bodnar uncovers actionable insights and strategies for mastering: 

• Goal Attainment 
• Productivity
• Mindset

Whether analyzing the habits of high achievers or exploring the dynamics of decision-making and resilience, The Science of Success is one of the best motivational podcasts providing listeners with evidence-based tools and principles to optimize their lives. 

• Host: Matt Bodnar
• Pitch The Science of Success 
• Episode Length: 40-60 Minutes
• Episode Schedule: Weekly (Days Vary)
• Apple Rating: 4.7
• Spotify Rating: 4.8

Optimal Living Daily

Optimal Living Daily is a mini motivational podcast that delivers bite-sized doses of inspiration and wisdom from the best personal development blogs and books. 

Hosted by Justin Malik, this unique show distills key insights and actionable advice on:

• Relationships
• Mindfulness
• Productivity
• Finance

Each episode offers listeners a quick and accessible way to absorb valuable information and implement positive changes in their lives. 

With a focus on clarity and practicality, Optimal Living Daily empowers individuals to cultivate a life of purpose, fulfillment, and continuous personal growth.

• Host: Justin Malik
• Pitch Optimal Living Daily 
• Episode Length: 10 Minutes 
• Episode Schedule: Daily
• Apple Rating: 4.7
• Spotify Rating: 4.8

Pro Tip: While OLD does not conduct interviews, they do accept submission to appear as a featured content reader. 

3 Best Motivational Podcasts for Women

With a focus on female empowerment and success, these best motivational podcasts for women offer a diverse range of perspectives, stories, and practical advice. All of which is tailored to address the unique challenges and aspirations of women. 

From discussions on career advancement and entrepreneurship to insights on confidence-building and self-care, these shows inspire women to embrace their authenticity, pursue their passions, and navigate life with resilience and grace.

The Productive Woman

The Productive Woman is one of the best motivational podcasts for women seeking to optimize their time, energy, and focus. 

Hosted by lawyer and productivity enthusiast Laura McClellan, this show explores practical strategies and mindset shifts to help busy women manage their priorities and accomplish their goals.

Through insightful interviews, actionable tips, and personal anecdotes, McClellan helps listeners streamline their workflows, overcome procrastination, and cultivate a balanced and fulfilling life.

 If you’re overwhelmed trying to navigate the demands of work, family, or personal pursuits, The Productive Woman offers the guidance and motivation needed to maximize potential.

• Host: Laura McClellan
• Pitch The Productive Woman
• Episode Length: 30-60 Minutes
• Episode Schedule: Every Wednesday
• Apple Rating: 4.6
• Spotify Rating: 5.0

Too Smart for This

Too Smart for This is one of the best motivational podcasts celebrating the intelligence of superficial girls. Host Alexis Barber discusses a wide range of topics, from self-care and goal-setting to pop culture and corporate burnout.

She does this all while dismantling the unrealistic expectations society places on women. 

With a blend of humor, insight, and deep dives into complex subjects, each episode invites listeners on a journey of personal exploration and self-discovery. 

From exploring the benefits of reinvention to questioning the quirks of human behavior, Barber offers an entertaining experience for anyone who relishes the thrill of learning to love yourself.

• Host: Alexis Barber
• Pitch Alexis Barber 
• Episode Length: 20-60 Minutes
• Episode Schedule: Every Thursday
• Apple Rating: 4.9
• Spotify Rating: 4.8

Unlocking Us 

Unlocking Us explores the intricacies of what it means to be human. 

Hosted by renowned researcher and bestselling author Brené Brown, this show delves into topics of vulnerability, courage, shame, and empathy with honesty and authenticity. 

Through candid conversations, insightful interviews, and personal reflections, Brown offers listeners a deeper understanding of themselves and others, along with the tools necessary for living wholeheartedly. 

By discussing relationships, resilience, and societal issues, Unlocking Us frees up growth potential and empowers women to embrace their imperfections while cultivating meaningful connections in an often chaotic world.

• Host: Brené Brown
• Pitch Brené Brown 
• Episode Length: 30-60 Minutes 
• Episode Schedule: Weekly (TBD) 
• Apple Rating: 4.6
• Spotify Rating: 4.8

3 Best Motivational Podcasts for Health and Wellness 

Prioritizing health and wellness is essential for living a fulfilling and balanced life. 

Thankfully, there are some excellent motivational podcasts out there to help you do just that. 

Through expert advice on nutrition, fitness, stress management strategies, and mindfulness, these three best motivational podcasts benefit listeners seeking higher life satisfaction and well-being.

The Rich Roll Podcast

The Rich Roll Podcast is one of the best motivational podcasts delving into the transformative journey of personal growth, wellness, and human potential. 

Hosted by ultra-endurance athlete and bestselling author Rich Roll, this podcast features in-depth conversations with thought leaders, experts, and everyday heroes across a diverse range of fields. 

From health and fitness to spirituality and entrepreneurship, Roll explores the principles and practices that empower individuals to live their most authentic and fulfilling lives. 

With a focus on authenticity, vulnerability, and resilience, each episode of The Rich Roll Podcast offers profound insights and actionable takeaways to inspire listeners to unlock their true potential and create positive change in their lives and communities.

• Host: Rich Roll
• Pitch Rich Roll  
• Episode Length: 2 Hours
• Episode Schedule: Mondays and Thursdays
• Apple Rating: 4.7
• Spotify Rating: 4.9

Optimal Health Daily

Optimal Health Daily is a groundbreaking podcast dedicated to empowering listeners with the latest insights and advice on health, fitness, and well-being. 

Host Dr. Neal Malik curates and narrates top articles from leading health and wellness blogs, delivering evidence-based information in a clear and concise format. 

To help listeners optimize their physical and mental well-being, Optimal Health Daily covers: 

• Stress Management
• Mental Health
• Nutrition
• Exercise 

Each episode equips listeners with practical tips and strategies to make informed decisions and take actionable steps toward achieving their health goals.

• Host: Dr. Neal Malik
• Pitch Optimal Health Daily 
• Episode Length: 10 Minutes 
• Episode Schedule: Daily 
• Apple Rating: 4.5
• Spotify Rating: 4.8

Pro Tip: If you’re looking to collaborate with OHD, note that they don’t conduct interviews. Yet, they do accept submission to appear as a featured content reader.

TED Health

TED Health is a captivating exploration of the latest breakthroughs and insights in the world of healthcare and well-being. 

This is one of the best motivational podcasts that features thought-provoking discussions and presentations by leading experts, researchers, and innovators. 

In each episode, host Dr. Shoshana Ungerleider examines diverse aspects of health and wellness. Here’s a few examples of what’s covered: 

• Cutting-edge Medical Advancements
• Mental Health
• Mindfulness
• Nutrition

Through engaging storytelling and expert analysis, TED Health provides listeners with the knowledge and inspiration to make informed decisions about their health while promoting a deeper understanding of the complexities of the human body and mind.

• Host: Dr. Shoshana Ungerleider
• Pitch Dr. Shoshana Ungerleider
• Episode Length: 10-30 Minutes 
• Episode Schedule: Every Tuesday 
• Apple Rating: 4.3
• Spotify Rating: 4. 7

Conclusion

By tuning in to the best motivational podcasts, you’ll access a wealth of wisdom, practical advice, and uplifting stories. Every episode provides the impetus needed to pursue goals and overcome obstacles. 

Whether you aim to get inspired as a listener or spread positivity as a guest, these podcasts provide the perfect foundation. 

For listeners, motivational podcasts reward you with the strategies to achieve personal growth and well-being. These sources of positivity serve as guidance and support on your journey to fulfillment. 

Appearing as a guest presents a unique PR opportunity to share your expertise and experiences with a wide audience. Recounting stories of triumph and personal growth inspires and uplifts listeners. It also establishes you as an authority — a huge bonus for your brand.

Appearing on a podcast is a fast, easy PR win that can get you backlinks and boost your brand awareness. Need help getting started? Contact us by booking a Preston demo today!