Evelyn Hill from the Lower Street team has created a recommended listening list of ten podcasts that focus on self-improvement or self-development…
We all hit slumps from time to time – stuck in the grind of our routines, we can start to feel a bit too comfortable, and maybe even a little stuck in life. But deep down, who doesn’t crave more? A better mindset, a fresh perspective, and continuous growth.
Learning is a lifelong process, and there is always room for personal growth. While books, courses, and articles offer guidance, I’ve found that listening is my favourite way to learn. Podcasts give me a chance to wind down, reflect on what’s happening in and around my life, and absorb new ideas at my own pace.
Self-improvement podcasts, in particular, provide fresh insights, practical advice, and inspiring stories that help lift us up. So if you are also looking to shake yourself out of the routine, and strive for personal growth, here are some of my favourite self-development podcasts to tune into.
The Breakout – Unleashing Personal Growth
“Get out of the box and into your life” That’s the tagline of The Breakout, hosted by talent and change experts Dr. Keri Ohlrich and Kelly Guenther. Every week they themselves learn from individuals who have gone through incredible change, sharing how you can access personal growth, increase your confidence, and make major moves in your life.
It’s an inspiring podcast that shows me change can come in dramatic shifts, or quiet steps, either way, good things happen when we push our limits.
If you prefer to read rather than listen, Dr. Keri Ohlrich and Kelly Guenther have just published a new book as well: Whatever the Hell You Want: An Escape Plan to Break Out of Life’s Little Boxes and Live Free from Expectations. Listen here >>
On the Table with Ashley
The best lessons come from when we push our boundaries and listen to new perspectives. Often we may feel stuck in our lives because we have only ever looked at things in one way, a way shaped by our own experiences and values. We may be scared to open up and talk about difficult things, this blocks our path to living to our highest potential.
On the Table with Ashley invites us to all sit down at a table and re-learn how to honour our differences, through compassion, and an open mind. Every episode brings a difficult topic to the forefront and brings on guests to discuss it from varying perspectives.
Re-learning what our minds have been stuck in is so important to our personal growth, and this podcast pushes us to change our minds and our hearts.
This season is focused on Death & Dying, a universal experience yet an often unspoken topic. Ashley’s guests discuss preparing for, talking about, and supporting others through end-of-life moments. It’s a heavy one, but a discussion I think we all need at some point in our lives. Listen here >>
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
If you’ve been around the self-improvement space already, you’ve probably heard the name Jay Shetty. A former monk turned bestselling author and life coach, he brings wisdom and purpose to every episode of On Purpose.
Each week, Jay interviews experts and celebrities who share their personal stories and strategies for living with intention, finding inner peace, and cultivating meaningful relationships.
The podcast reminds me that growth is a daily practice, and Jay’s soothing voice and thoughtful approach make complex ideas feel approachable. Listen here >>
The Art of Listening
We learn through connection, and the best way to connect is to listen and hold space for one another. Eileen Dunn’s podcast The Art of Listening reminds us of this week after week. Her interviews with experts in therapy give us a new perspective on the relations between people and the lessons we can learn through talk therapy. This is a great listen to learn more about human connection. Listen here >>
Sisters in Sobriety
At its core Sisters in Sobriety is a raw, honest look at life beyond alcohol. After both embracing sobriety, they share their personal journeys of recovery, exploring the ups and downs of life without drinking.
Well you may not consider yourself in need of a sobriety podcast, I promise there’s something in this show for everyone. No matter your relationship with alcohol currently, sisters-in-law Sonia Kahlon and Kathleen Killen, bring new and interesting takes that make us reflect, and be honest about how we face struggles in our lives. At the same time, they share fun and relatable conversations.
Each episode gets into topics like emotional sobriety, mindful living, and navigating social life alcohol-free, offering listeners a blend of support, inspiration, and humor.
Their candid conversations remind us that sobriety is not just about quitting alcohol, but about embracing a more mindful, empowered lifestyle. Listen here >>
Blue Sky
Hosted by Bill Burke, founder of The Optimism Institute, Blue Sky brings a great dose of inspiration and optimism to the week. In a world of constant bad news, Blue Sky shares the stories of leaders and big thinkers with a contagious sense of optimism.
This podcast invites us to lift our heads above the clouds and see the possibilities, even when things feel overwhelming. Bill’s conversations are often with individuals taking on challenges much bigger than the ones I face in my day-to-day, but they leave me reflecting on how a positive mindset can shape the way we tackle our own struggles, no matter how big or small. Listen here >>
The Whole Damn Pie!
If you’re feeling tired of settling for just a slice of life, listen in to The Whole Damn Pie hosted by Amalia Martino, founder of The Vida Agency. Amalia leads conversations that challenge us to think about what “the whole pie” even means – whether it’s health, success, personal growth, or leaving a lasting legacy. The podcast brings a lot of clarity: whether it’s finding balance and the fun in life, redefining our relationship with money, or even addressing equity and social justice. With Amalia’s relatable, down-to-earth approach, she shares her personal and professional experiences while learning from her guests along the way. Listen here >>
The Happiness Lab
If you’ve been living your life chasing the next big thing, thinking it will bring you happiness, you’re doing it all wrong. What does make us happy? Yale professor Dr. Laurie Santos started The Happiness Lab to tell us. She’s spent years studying the science of happiness, only to realize most of us aren’t seeking happiness in the best way. Through The Happiness Lab, Dr. Santos shares the latest scientific research and inspiring (and surprising!) stories that will change the way you think about happiness. Listen here >>
Life Kit
Need some practical advice to help you face this challenge of being human? Listen to LifeKit (and check out their entire archive). LifeKit by NPR is hosted by Marielle Segarra, and covers everything from sleep strategies and budgeting tips to parenting hacks and beyond. Episodes are only 20 minutes or shorter, so easily fit into your day. They feature conversations with experts who share clear tips to help you tackle life’s hurdles with confidence. Listen here >>
Talks with Dr Shafer
What I love most about Talks with Dr. Shafer is her incredibly soothing voice. It reels me in and lets me relax alongside the show. Her thoughtful approach makes each episode feel like a meaningful conversation with a wise friend.
Talks with Dr. Shafer invites us all to reclaim our stories and envision a brighter future. Hosted by Dr. Shafer Stedron, MD, this show blends her expertise as a physician, life coach, and author to create a truly calming and insightful experience. Each week we hear the personal journey of a guest, and learn from their experience of overcoming obstacles and striving for a fulfilling life. From addressing mental and emotional well-being to exploring the intersection of health and personal growth, this podcast offers a safe space for reflection and connection. Listen here >>
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