We love a good podcast, whether you’re out walking, driving to a meeting, or waiting on the sidelines for the kids to finish football, there are so many brilliant, alarming, bone-tickling, nerve-wracking, and inspiring podcasts out there that we’ve listened to over the year, and we are delighted to share some of our favourites. So, if you have some downtime over the festive period - tune in, catch up and enjoy! Here’s our pick of the pods…

1. British Scandal

• Where can I listen to it?: Find it Here
• Why it's interesting: Who doesn’t appreciate a bit of scandal? This podcast is a gem. Dive into the intriguing tales of scandals, drawing lessons from the past that resonate today. The stories that are told delve into the murkier side of the British elite, from Phone Hacking and Profumo to Jimmy Saville and Liz Truss vs. The Lettuce. Listen in on the reality of power, the price of pride and the failings of the great and good. Unmissable.

2. Bottom Line with Evan Davis 

• Where can I listen to it?: Find it Here
• Why it's interesting: Are you a business leader in denial? Are younger workers asking for too much? Are you desperate to get staff back to the office? Evan Davis brings a unique blend of wit and wisdom to the table, unravelling the mysteries of the business world with his insightful interviews. His knack for demystifying complex topics makes Bottom Line a must-listen for leaders and HR Directors seeking a well-rounded perspective on various business issues.

3. The McKinsey Podcast - Generative AI: How will it affect future jobs and workflows

• Where can I listen to it?: Find it Here
• Why it's interesting: McKinsey delves into the future of jobs and workflows in the age of generative AI. They talk about why in our post-COVID world and with the growth of AI, companies need to pivot to embrace the technology itself and the deep and lasting changes it may create. HR Directors can gain valuable insights into the potential impact on their teams, preparing for the shifts that lie ahead. It’s a discussion we all want to explore right now as we delve into the different challenges facing different sectors.

4. Ghost Story

• Where can I listen to it?: Find it Here
• Why it's interesting: Do you believe in Ghosts? Seasoned journalist Tristan Redman didn’t… but how does he explain the weird occurrences that happened in his bedroom as a teen? And as he discovers years later that subsequent occupants of the same house have been visited by the ghost of a faceless woman, he’s curious. As coincidentally, Tristan’s childhood home is right next door to the house where his wife’s great-grandmother, Naomi Dancy, was murdered in 1937 – killed by two gunshots to the face. Curious? You should be.

5. Believe in Magic 

• Where can I listen to it?: Find it Here
• Why it's interesting: "Believe in Magic" explores the extraordinary story of a teenage girl battling a brain tumour and her charity, Believe in Magic. Jamie Bartlett investigates how the charity got the support of boyband One Direction and transformed the lives of sick children. But it sheds light on some darker sides, too. explores the complex world of illness influencers, examining how they impact public views through medical terms and emotional stories. While it focuses on the mix of sympathy, support, and doubt these influencers create, it also acknowledges the real happiness Believe in Magic brought to many children.

6. HBR IdeaCast - How Job Training Must Change in the AI Age

• Where can I listen to it?: Find it Here
• Why it's interesting: In this episode, Harvard Business Review explores the impact of AI on job training. This cast is a conversation with HBS professor Raffaella Sadun on shifting the mindset around reskilling. As HRDs navigate the evolving landscape, this podcast provides actionable insights into adapting training programs for the AI age.

7. The Strategy Skills Podcast

• Where can I listen to it?: Find it Here
• Why It's Interesting: Uncover the nuances of corporate strategy with a touch of humour. This podcast challenges traditional thinking and offers leaders a fresh perspective on strategic decision-making in the corporate world. Suppose you are in consulting, in an internal consulting role, or interested in strategy consulting. In that case, you should know there is a significant difference between corporate strategy and the other types of strategy analyses like business unit strategy, market entry strategy, etc.

8. Working it - from Financial Times

• Where can I listen to it: Find it Here
• Why it's interesting: The Financial Times' take on the working world is a fantastic mix of humour and hard-hitting facts. "Working It" is your backstage pass to the latest trends and challenges in the business landscape, offering a front-row seat whether you are the boss or working you way up.

9. Partners in Crime with Laura Whitmore and Iain Stirling 

• Where can I listen to it?: Find it Here
• Why it's interesting: If you love true crime, you will love this duo! Join Laura Whitmore and Iain Stirling as they bring humour and camaraderie to the podcast scene. These guys talk with real heart about different weird true crime stories with a lighter perspective on the dark and twisted.

10. The Strategic Leader Podcast with Gemma Bullivant & Fiona Craig 

• Where can I listen to it?: Find it Here
• Why it's interesting: Gemma Bullivant and Fiona Craig share their expertise on strategic leadership. This podcast is a goldmine for leaders seeking practical advice and strategic insights to enhance their leadership skills. Their goal is to empower you to operate with impact and confidence, ensuring you’re right at the top of your game.

11. The Chief Psychology Officer Podcast with Dr. Amanda Potter

• Where can I listen to it?: Find it Here
• Why it's interesting: Dr. Amanda Potter explores the psychology behind leadership in this insightful podcast. For HR Directors focused on employee wellbeing and organisational culture, this podcast offers a deep dive into the human side of leadership.

In our fast-paced world, these podcasts serve as our trusted companions, delivering valuable insights with a sprinkle of humour. Whether you're seeking inspiration, strategic wisdom, or a good laugh, these gems are tailored for leaders and HR Directors looking to level up their leadership game.

Why not drop us a line and tell us your favourite podcasts that you’ve listened to this year and who you are looking forward to hearing more from in 2024.

Happy listening!

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