I used to be a big reader. (Well, a big-ish reader, anyway.)
But nowadays? I’m all about the podcasts.
The best ones are thought-provoking, amusing and often uplifting. I love the insights into people’s lives and many of the business and leadership ideas are really valuable.
This is so much better than radio! When you find a show you enjoy you can listen to as many episodes as you like. And it’s all on-demand.
So, since you may have some long drives planned during the summer…
Or just in case you fancy something enjoyable to listen to…
Today I’m going to share my top 4 podcasts.
Enjoy!
- How to Fail with Elizabeth Day. I love the premise of this podcast: Interviews with accomplished people, talking about their 3 biggest failures – and what they learned from them.
Elizabeth Day’s guests range from politicians (like Ed Miliband) to authors (Maggie O’Farrell), celebrities (Graham Norton) and sportspeople (Jessica Ennis-Hill), but the majority are exceptional, fascinating people who aren’t household names.
Day is an exceptional interviewer and the central idea – that failure isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it can actually be the foundation of your future success – is powerful.
- A Bit of Optimism by Simon Sinek. You might know Simon Sinek from his outstanding business book and TED Talk, “Start With Why.” His podcast is less focused – it’s just him chatting with people who inspire him about “love, life, leadership and silver linings.”
Many of the stories will stay with you forever. There was one episode with a man, Quilen Blackwell, who grew up in an affluent neighborhood but became homeless. He eventually turned himself into a social entrepreneur, setting up an “Eco house” in the heart of Chicago for inner-city youth, in order to serve and make a difference to the world.
Other episodes, again, feature people you’ve heard of, from comedian Michael McIntyre to former Times editor James Harding. Well worth a listen. - Slo Mo with Mo Gawdat. As I’m writing this piece I’m starting to notice that all my favourite podcasts actually have a similar theme…
…Mo Gawdat also chats with guests about how to overcome obstacles in your life and achieve happiness and fulfilment.
He’s certainly faced his fair share. Gawdat, who is the former Chief Business Officer for Google X, lost a son in his early 20s during routine surgery – something he discussed openly and with great sensitivity.
I first came across Mo when he was interviewed by Elizabeth Day on How to Fail. She’s actually interviewed him twice and I’ve listened to that first one many times, because I found it so inspiring.
He explores big ideas and often delves into psychology. And a lot of the ideas are based on his book, “Solve for Happy”, where he set out his formula for finding contentment in life.
But what will hit you first is his distinctive, calming voice (the opposite of me). I could listen to him all day!
And now for something completely different…. - The Delta Flyers. Two members of the cast of Star Trek: Voyager re-watch old episodes of the show and talk about their memories and experience filming it.
If you’re a Star Trek nut like me, you won’t need to hear much more before turning in. (Everyone else, this probably isn’t for you!)
What are your favourite podcasts? I’m always on the lookout for a great new listen, so please send your suggestions my way!
Warmly,
Garry
