Did you know that over 100 million Americans listen to podcasts? That is a lot of downloads!
What makes podcasts so appealing is that they are accessible, require no preparation, and allow you to multi-task like dusting while you listen. The format is versatile, and there is a podcast for almost every interest, and they can connect people with like interest.
One of the top perks? It is all free and delivered regularly right into your headphones.
Podcasts of all kinds are hugely popular. The pandemic has had an impact on podcast listening. At the onset of the coronavirus, listening dropped sharply in mid-March, but by June, the medium began to bounce back and has been growing since.
If you are interested in adding a new podcast to your listening cue, check out some Spaugh Dameron Tenny team recommendations.
Will’s Financial Podcast Recommendation:
“Animal Spirits” with Michael Batnik and Ben Carlson
Michael and Ben are both Chartered Financial Analysts who host this weekly podcast. They discuss topics related to the markets and current events. On every show, they answer listener questions and discuss what they are reading and watching. I also enjoy reading their blogs, "The Irrelevant Investor" and "A Wealth of Common Sense".
Will’s Other Podcast Recommendations:
I have a few non-financial related podcasts that I regularly listen to, such as “The Joe Rogan Experience” and “The Jordan B. Peterson podcast.” Both of these shows are intellectually stimulating. Joe Rogan is known for his thoughtful discussions with a range of guests. Jordan Peterson is a world-renown "intellectual" who will make you think twice about the world.
However, one of my favorite non-financial related podcasts for easy listening is called "Song Exploder." In this podcast, the host, Hrishikesh Hirway, will breakdown popular songs with the artists. He interviews the artists to find out the hidden meaning behind lyrics or how a melody was created.
Favorite episode:
E183: Tame Impala – features Kevin Parker from Tame Impala, one of my favorite artists. They breakdown a song, "It Might be Time," from Tame Impala's latest album.
Andrew’s Financial and Business Podcast Recommendations:
The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) has a podcast. It keeps me up to date on tax law changes and dives into the in-depth strategies that help provide value. Listening to market news can be a lot like treading water, but the AICPA’s PFP podcast helps sharpen our competitive advantage in planning.
Favorite episode:
Planning Ideas with the SECURE Act’s 10-year Rule - July 10, 2020
“Jocko Podcast” is also a fascinating business-related podcast. Many of life’s most valuable lessons are clarified and intensified under the backdrop of warfare. Jocko Willink, a former Navy Seal and founder of Echelon Front, speaks to lessons in leadership, accountability, discipline, and adversity. These lessons are universal across any business. I have found this podcast to include subtle self-improvement elements for people who typically do not enjoy the typical ‘self-help’ genre.
Favorite recent episodes:
Episode 247 - Whiskey Tango Foxtrot - What it takes to beat the odds with John Stryker Meyer - 9/16/2020
Episode 244 - Don’t Do It Alone - How to Build a Winning Team w/ Mike Sarraille and George Randle - 8/28/2020
Andrew’s Other Podcast Recommendations:
“Revisionist History” by Malcolm Gladwell, renowned author of “Tipping Point,” “Blink,” and several other books, produces a 10 episode podcast each year, typically revolving around a theme. Now moving into season 5, Gladwell uses the podcast to break down something misunderstood in history, from people to events to places. Gladwell’s pithy journalistic style makes it my favorite podcast available.
Favorite episode:
A Good Walk Spoiled - This episode dives into the Ancient Greek thought experiment of the Ship of Theseus and how it applies to the contemporary property rights of country clubs in the Los Angeles Area today. Season 2, Episode 1 - June 15, 2017
Rachel’s Financial and Business Podcast Recommendation:
During college, I wanted to stay informed about current events and financial news but did not always have the time allotted for reading longer news articles or watching the evening news. I discovered the “Snacks Daily” podcast by Robinhood Financial, and it is my favorite source of information. This podcast highlights three business stories every day in about 15 to 20 minutes.
If you don't have that much time, they even have a “Snacks Minute” podcast, giving a high-level overview of the stories in about 3 to 5 minutes. The hosts, Nick and Jack, do a phenomenal job of making "financial news digestible." I began listening to this podcast every morning with my coffee, and my friends began to wonder how I was keeping up with a breadth of current financial news!
Rachel’s Other Podcast Recommendation:
“How I Built This” from NPR - If I am taking a road trip, you can guarantee I'll be listening to NPR's “How I Built This” podcast hosted by Guy Raz. I have always been fascinated by how successful companies or people came to fruition and maintained success, which is why I am hooked on this podcast. Guy Raz interviews famous entrepreneurs from all industries on this podcast. The episodes can range from 30 minutes to a couple of hours but are well worth the listen. Guy is a fantastic interviewer and does a great job making each episode have a story-like sequence that keeps me entertained and engaged in the podcast. If you are curious about the Patagonia jacket or Lululemon leggings you're wearing or about Tate’s cookies you bought at the grocery store, this is the podcast for you. “How I Built This” will give you the birth story of these companies and entrepreneurs that you can absorb inspiration from or learn some new fun facts to share with your family and friends. I LOVE IT.
Favorite episode:
The very first episode I listened to features Mark Cuban and is still my favorite podcast episode of all time.
Jordan’s Financial and Business Podcast Recommendations:
“Planet Money” from NPR
This is one of my favorite financial podcasts. It is generally about 20-25 minutes and comes out twice a week. It tackles a range of economic subjects creatively and engagingly and can be enjoyed by all audiences, including those without a background in economics.
My other go-to podcast for business and the economy is “The Indicator from Planet Money.” Yes, you are sensing a theme. NPR has figured out the special sauce for making intricate and complicated topics easy to understand and digest. This weekday podcast gives a quick hit of insight into the economy, work, business and helps make sense of what’s happening today.
Jordan’s Other Podcast Recommendation:
Outside of the office, I enjoy following football and keeping up with my fantasy football league. “The Fantasy Footballers” is my go-to podcast for the most accurate ranking, analysis, and advice around fantasy football.
Jessica’s Podcast Recommendation:
“Armchair Expert” with Dax Shepherd
Dax makes for an interesting host because although he is no technical expert, he loves talking to diverse guests about their stories. I appreciate how he honestly says that his only qualification for discussing these topics with these famous guests are the experiences he’s gained from his own messy past in Hollywood and struggles with sobriety. He’s authentic and real and has a way of mixing equal parts pragmatism with equal parts emotion to engage the listener.
Favorite episode:
Fav Episode # 51 with Brené Brown in Austin, Texas
This episode is my favorite because it puts Dax in the same room as one of my favorite authors, Brené Brown. She’s an ex-researcher who spent two decades studying courage, vulnerability, shame, and empathy. She took the data from her studies to write several books discussing the power of using vulnerability and courage in everyday life. Mixing her research mind with Dax’s street smarts makes an interesting conversation about the human experience.
Anitha’s Podcast Recommendations:
“Wait, Wait… Don’t Tell Me!” from NPR
It always makes me laugh, and it brings fun and light. It’s something I can listen to with my daughter on a long drive and have a good laugh. They also have some delightful guests that make the program more engaging.
I love that they have different subjects. Mostly, I listen to inspirational TED Talks.
Favorite episodes:
- “The surprising science of happiness“ by Dan Gilbert
- “What makes a good life? Lessons from the longest study on happiness” by Robert Waldinger
Joannah’s Podcast Recommendations:
“Social Pros Podcast” by Convince & Convert
This podcast always has a wealth of information in the marketing, communication, and social media space, covering social trends, techniques, and much more. Hosts Jay Baer of Convince & Convert and Adam Brown of Salesforce shines the spotlight on social media and digital communications practitioners, people doing the real work for real companies. They also discuss new tools, share advice, and debunk marketing myths. I’m always finding tips and tricks that I can use in my work.
“Fresh Air” on WHYY
I love a good story and have been enamored with Fresh Air from NPR since I first heard the show on my local NPR station. When they stopped broadcasting it during the time I could listen, I started listening to the podcast. The host, Terry Gross, is the ultimate storyteller and has a unique ability to encourage even the most reticent of guests to share some of their intimate thoughts, concerns, and ideas with her. I find it inspiring and informational.
If you are looking for a podcast that is more focused on health, well-being or geared toward physicians, check out our blog: "7 Best Physician Podcasts".
As you can read, there is no shortage of podcasts that cover a broad range of topics, and the demand for more is only increasing. The industry is continuing to grow both in terms of audiences and revenue. With podcasts being used to learn something new, stay informed with current events, distract you while exercising, and pure entertainment, there is something out there for everyone.
In case you did not know, Spaugh Dameron Tenny has our own podcast hosted by managing partner, Shane Tenny, CFP®. It is for physicians and dentists to educate and inspire to reach personal, professional, and financial wellness featuring real-life stories from doctors and dentists themselves. Subscribe to the podcast below!
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This article was written in collaboration with the financial professionals at Spaugh Dameron Tenny. Our team features CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professionals, Certified Exit Planning Advisors, insurance specialists, investment coordinators, and experienced analysts – all dedicated to addressing the unique financial needs of physicians, dentists, executives, and retirees. With decades of collective experience, we provide clear and comprehensive guidance in all areas of financial planning, wealth management, retirement planning, investment strategies, and practice transitions.
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