What is Gross Misconduct?
Gross misconduct is one of the reasons why companies must have employee handbooks that clearly distinguish between appropriate and inappropriate behavior and outline the repercussions in the event of misconduct.
In This Post:
Expert Contributors:
Lucas Botzen
CEO and HR expert at Rivermate
The human resources department is fundamentally about people.
Although you can learn about it conceptually, the most valuable lessons still come from the unpredictable, human side of the job.
HR podcasts offer a front-row seat to the real-life stories behind the policies.
Whether you’re hearing how a CHRO handled their first major layoff, how a people leader navigated a shift to remote work, or someone sharing the networking tips that helped them break into the industry, the experiences of humans in their fields provide invaluable lessons.
The best HR podcasts for professionals feel less like formal lectures and more like authentic conversations with seasoned colleagues who’ve had the same experience and are willing to share lessons learned.
In this Shortlister article, we carefully selected the ones that perfectly balance professional depth with approachable content, catering to podcast enthusiasts and first-time listeners.
Why HR Podcasts Are Essential for Today's People Leaders
Podcast consumption in the U.S. has increased significantly, rising to an estimated 210 million listeners in audio and video formats.
Even more striking is the long-term trend: between 2011 and 2025, the share of Americans who had ever consumed a podcast nearly tripled, growing from 25 to 73 percent, according to Statista research.
What’s driving this remarkable growth?
For U.S. consumers, podcasts are more valued for their learning potential than the entertainment they provide.
Survey data from 2019 revealed that most podcast listeners tune in primarily to learn new things, seeking content on topics ranging from philosophy and history to business and specialized professional issues.
This demand for accessible, on-the-go learning has created a valuable opportunity for people leaders seeking new ways to support, engage, and develop their teams. It’s also a powerful resource for HR teams, business owners, and professionals across industries looking for flexible ways to stay informed.
For example, Lucas Botzen, CEO and HR expert at Rivermate, sees podcasts as a way to stay ahead in a dynamic workplace.
“I’ve found HR podcasts to be an incredibly impactful resource, especially in 2025 when the workplace continues to evolve due to AI integration, remote-first models, and shifting employee expectations,” says Botzen.
“Listening to these podcasts regularly has helped me stay ahead of trends and challenges, from managing hybrid teams more effectively to rethinking performance reviews through a lens of psychological safety and continuous feedback.”
The best HR podcasts for professionals tap into this educational interest, offering peer-to-peer insight and real-world strategies that are missing from traditional training materials.
At the same time, with episodes that can be played during a commute, workout, or lunch break, podcasts make it easy to fit continuous learning into even the busiest schedules.
“I’ve found HR podcasts to be an incredibly impactful resource, especially in 2025 when the workplace continues to evolve due to AI integration, remote-first models, and shifting employee expectations.”
Top HR Podcasts by Category
There’s no shortage of podcasts available today, but not every show will align with the specific needs of HR specialists, people leaders, or other professionals.
To help cut through the noise, we organized some of the top choices by category.
Whether the focus is on transformational leadership, better talent acquisition, ongoing compliance, or learning and development, this curated list of the best HR podcasts for professionals makes it easier to find insights and perspectives that resonate with each role and its current challenges.
Leadership & Workplace Culture
Host(s) & Background: Hosted by the organizational psychologist, bestselling author, and TED speaker Adam Grant, this podcast features unconventional ways (and guests) to reveal actionable lessons for improving work life.
What You’ll Learn: Listeners get insights into many topics, such as leadership, corporate behavior, strategies to inspire creativity and team collaboration, and more.
Best Episodes to Start With:
To experience Adam Grant’s unique lens on workplace behavior, begin with these thought-provoking episodes:
Episode Format & Frequency: Weekly episodes featuring interviews with thought leaders and other “unusual” professionals analyzing workplace dynamics.
Where to Listen: Available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
2) The CliftonStrengths Podcast
Host(s) & Background: Hosted by Gallup experts Dr. Jaclynn Robinson and Jim Collison, this podcast delves into the 34 CliftonStrengths themes and offers practical applications for personal and professional development.
What You’ll Learn: How to leverage individual strengths for better performance, team dynamics, and leadership effectiveness.
Best Episodes to Start With:
To understand how CliftonStrengths can be applied in leadership, it’s best to listen to the entirety of Season 2, which offers a focused exploration of these themes:
Episode Format & Frequency: Weekly episodes featuring expert discussions and listener Q&A.
Where to Listen: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube
3) Culture First with Damon Klotz
Host(s) & Background: Hosted by Damon Klotz, this Culture Amp podcast explores the human side of work, focusing on how culture shapes organizational behavior and experience.
What You’ll Learn: Strategies for building inclusive cultures, strengthening employee engagement, and leading with empathy.
Best Episodes to Start With:
These episodes are a great entry point into the show’s exploration of empathy, activism, and modern leadership:
Episode Format & Frequency: Periodic episodes featuring interviews with culture experts and organizational leaders.
Where to Listen: Available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Spotify
Host(s) & Background: Hosted by business psychologist Leanne Elliott and her husband, business owner Al Elliott, Truth, Lies & Work is an award-winning podcast that investigates the role of behavioral science in influencing organizational culture.
What You’ll Learn: Listeners gain insights into the psychological underpinnings of workplace dynamics and practical strategies for promoting healthier organizational cultures.
Best Episodes to Start With:
These episodes perfectly capture the show’s balance of psychology, humor, and practical business insight:
Episode Format & Frequency: Episodes are released periodically and feature interviews with experts, discussions on current workplace issues, and evidence-based advice.
Where to Listen: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and other major podcast platforms
Strategic HR & People Operations
Host(s) & Background: Hosted by Hebba Youssef, Chief People Officer at Workweek, this podcast provides a candid look into the challenges faced by HR professionals, offering a platform for open dialogue and resource sharing.
What You’ll Learn: Topics range from everyday workplace dynamics to deeper issues shaping HR and corporate culture.
Best Episodes to Start With:
Explore current trends and pair them with timeless strategies through these insightful episodes:
- “HR in 2025: Bolder Aspirations & Bigger Moves”
- “Strategic AF: What It Actually Means and Why It Matters with Morgan Williams”
Episode Format & Frequency: Weekly episodes featuring interviews with industry insiders and discussions on current HR topics.
Where to Listen: Available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
2) People Managing People Podcast
Host(s) & Background: Hosted by David Rice, a seasoned HR professional and leadership coach, this podcast is dedicated to inspiring leaders, managers, and HR professionals as they build the workplace of the future.
What You’ll Learn: Innovators and thought leaders explore topics ranging from technology to performance management, workplace culture, and employee experience.
Best Episodes to Start With:
For everyday topics on modern workplaces requiring modern solutions, from Gen Z work ethic to pay transparency, we recommend these easy, 30-minute talks:
- “Gen Z and the Workplace: Myths, Realities, and Unlocking Their Talent”
- “Salary Negotiations: How to Ensure You Don’t Leave Anything on the Table”
Episode Format & Frequency: Weekly episodes featuring interviews with industry experts and thought leaders.
Where to Listen: Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify
3) Honest HR
Host(s) & Background: Nicole Belyna, Monique Akanbi, and Wendy Fong host Honest HR, an SHRM podcast that shares insights, trends, and advice through relatable stories from the real world of human resources.
What You’ll Learn: Episodes cover a wide range of topics, from neuroscience-driven leadership to accommodating diversity and supporting mental health in the workplace.
Best Episodes to Start With:
These episodes are a great representation of the dual role of HR – caring for employees while maintaining operational discipline:
- “The Loneliness Epidemic and Belonging in the Workplace”
- “Managing Time & Attendance: Calling Out Employees Who Call Out”
Episode Format & Frequency: Weekly episodes featuring interviews and discussions on current HR topics.
Where to Listen: Available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Spotify
Host(s) & Background: Hosted by Lars Schmidt, founder of Amplify Talent, this podcast explores the evolving world of HR through conversations with CEOs, CHROs, and talent leaders.
What You’ll Learn: The podcast delivers an inside look into modern HR practices, people operations, and the evolving role of HR in companies.
Best Episodes to Start With:
These episodes highlight HR innovation from different expert perspectives, delivering actionable insights that reflect the podcast’s mission to spotlight modern, transformative people practices:
- “Breaking the HR Mold: Vanesa Cotlar on Transforming HR and People Operations”
- “HR Evolution and Innovation at Scale with Genpact CHRO Piyush Mehta”
Episode Format & Frequency: Periodic episodes featuring in-depth expert interviews.
Where to Listen: Available on Amplify Talent
Recruitment & Talent Acquisition
1) The Employee Onboarding Podcast
Host(s) & Background: Erin Rice, a People and Operations Specialist at Process Street, unpacks the complexities of employee onboarding. With a background in education and HR, Rice brings her unique perspective to the process.
What You’ll Learn: Episodes feature discussions with experts and insights into designing compelling employee onboarding experiences. They emphasize the importance of clear expectations, human connection, and strategic alignment from the outset.
Best Episodes to Start With:
In an all-about-onboarding podcast, we chose these episodes to cover the often-forgotten elements of building a more effective and people-focused hiring experience:
- “Onboarding Meets Offboarding: Why the End Starts at the Beginning”
- “The Human Element Missing in Employee Onboarding”
Episode Format & Frequency: Periodic episodes featuring interviews with HR professionals and thought leaders.
Where to Listen: Available on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Deezer, and other platforms
Host(s) & Background: With years of recruitment experience and a focus on HR technology, Matt Alder provides forward-looking insights to the podcast, guiding conversations that help listeners navigate the future of talent acquisition.
What You’ll Learn: The podcast explores talent acquisition through emerging trends, technological advancements, and strategic approaches.
Best Episodes to Start With:
While every episode offers valuable insights, these are great starting points to dive into the future of recruitment:
Episode Format & Frequency: Regular episodes featuring interviews with HR professionals, technologists, and industry experts.
Where to Listen: Available on Recruiting Future’s website, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify
Employee Engagement & Experience
1) HR Besties
Host(s) & Background: HR Besties is co-hosted by Leigh Elena Henderson, Ashley Herd, and Jamie Jackson.
Henderson provides 20 years of HR leadership experience in Fortune 100 companies and authentic storytelling.
Herd, a former general counsel and head of HR at companies like McKinsey, is a manager training expert and a leading #HRTikTok voice.
Jackson, the creator behind Humorous Resources, Millennial Misery, and Horrendous HR, adds humor and relatability through her popular content.
What You’ll Learn: This podcast offers an unrestrained look into HR, blending humor with insightful discussions on workplace culture, employee relations, and the human side of work. Listeners can expect real talk on topics like managing up, navigating workplace challenges, and fostering inclusive environments.
Best Episodes to Start With:
These episodes offer both humor and actionable advice, making them a great starting point:
- “How to Make the Most of Paid Time Off”
- “The Overlap Between Customer Experience and Employee Experience with Max Farber”
Episode Format & Frequency: Weekly episodes featuring engaging conversations, personal anecdotes, and practical advice.
Where to Listen: Available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
2) Vantage Influencers Podcast
Host(s) & Background: Shifting to a more serious tone, the Vantage Influencers Podcast, hosted by Sanjeevani Saikia, Senior Content Marketing Specialist at Vantage Circle, brings together HR thought leaders to discuss different aspects of shaping the employee experience.
What You’ll Learn: Effective employee recognition techniques, wellness strategies to boost performance, and tips on nurturing a positive company culture.
Best Episodes to Start With:
These episodes are both short and ideal for HR leaders seeking actionable strategies and fresh perspectives:
- “Beyond Paychecks: What Truly Keeps Employees Engaged”
- “Corporate Survival Guide: What They Don’t Teach in College”
Episode Format & Frequency: Periodic episodes featuring interviews with HR professionals and industry experts.
Where to Listen: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other popular podcast platforms
3) HR Unplugged
Host(s) & Background: Vanessa Brulotte, an HR Business Partner at BambooHR, leads HR Unplugged, where she addresses the challenging issues in HR with transparency and openness.
What You’ll Learn: The podcast delves into real-world HR issues, providing insights on anything from performance management and stay interviews to using data to influence a better employee experience.
Best Episodes to Start With:
Start with these episodes to get a clear sense of the podcast’s tone and focus:
- “The Direct Link Between Leaders and Employee Performance”
- “Creating the Best Work Environment for Every Generation”
Episode Format & Frequency: Episodes are released periodically and feature discussions with industry experts, offering practical advice and strategies.
Where to Listen: Available on BambooHR’s website, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Spotify
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Host(s) & Background: Women at Work, hosted by Harvard Business Review editor-in-chief Amy Bernstein and HBR writer and contributing editor Amy Gallo, delves into the challenges women face in the workplace.
What You’ll Learn: The podcast addresses pressing issues such as gender discrimination, wage gaps, and workplace dynamics, offering practical advice and strategies for navigating and overcoming these challenges.
Best Episodes to Start With:
Hear how Bernstein and Gallo combine journalistic expertise and empathetic insight to explore women’s challenges in the workplace:
Episode Format & Frequency: Biweekly episodes featuring expert interviews and discussions.
Where to Listen: Available on HBR, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify
Host(s) & Background: Co-hosted by Kai Deveraux Lawson and Simeon Coker, Mixed Company brings together professionals with extensive experience in media and advertising who use their platform to spread awareness of the need for diversity and inclusion.
What You’ll Learn: The podcast offers honest stories about the challenges marginalized groups face in creative industries, providing actionable solutions to foster diverse representation, equity, and belonging.
Best Episodes to Start With:
If you’re new to Mixed Company, these episodes offer a powerful introduction to the topics and style of this show:
- “The State of DEI ft. Micheline Grace Lewis & Tope Ajala”
- “For Black Women Who’ve Considered C-Suite”
Episode Format & Frequency: Periodic episodes featuring in-depth discussions and guest interviews.
Where to Listen: Available on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, and Spotify
Host(s) & Background: Katee Van Horn and Jackye Clayton are co-hosts, both with decades of experience in HR and DE&I.
What You’ll Learn: Everything from addressing unconscious bias in the workplace to implementing effective DE&I programs and tools to drive meaningful change.
Best Episodes to Start With:
These episodes break down complex issues surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion in engaging conversations that are especially insightful for first-time listeners:
- “Getting Inclusive AF with Christina Blacken”
- “Katee & Jackye Talk Safety and Pulling Apart the D, the E, and the I!”
Episode Format & Frequency: Episodes are released periodically, featuring discussions and expert interviews.
Where to Listen: Available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
HR Technology & Innovation
Host(s) & Background: Digital HR Leaders is hosted by David Green, an author, people analytics leader, and director of Insight222 and myHRfuture.
What You’ll Learn: The podcast explores how companies can leverage data and technology to modernize HR functions. Topics include people analytics, digital transformation, and the future of work.
Best Episodes to Start With:
These episodes are ideal starting points, as they capture the core themes of Digital HR Leaders: data-driven strategy, digital transformation, and forward-thinking leadership:
- “The CHRO’s Playbook: How to Build an Agile and Data-Driven HR Function”
- “How HR Can Lead Successful Digital Transformation Initiatives”
Episode Format & Frequency: Weekly episodes featuring interviews with HR leaders and experts.
Where to Listen: Available on myHRfuture, Spotify, and other popular podcast platforms
2) #WorkTrends
Host(s) & Background: Meghan M. Biro, founder and CEO of TalentCulture, is the voice behind #WorkTrends. She discusses the future of work and the evolving workplace, bringing her experience as a talent management visionary and digital catalyst to the podcast.
What You’ll Learn: The podcast covers everything from workforce innovation and HR software to organizational culture. Episodes feature interviews with industry leaders, providing insights into trends and strategies shaping the modern workplace.
Best Episodes to Start With:
As AI slowly solidifies a permanent role in the workplace and HR, these episodes are a great starting point to explore its impact:
Episode Format & Frequency: Short but frequent episodes with expert interviews and discussions.
Where to Listen: Available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
Career Development & Professional Growth
1) Punk Rock HR
Host(s) & Background: Laurie Ruettimann, a former HR leader turned career coach, hosts Punk Rock HR and challenges traditional HR norms by bringing her fresh perspective to discussions on work, leadership, and personal growth.
What You’ll Learn: Ruettimann engages with guests to explore the human side of work, such as career transitions, workplace culture, and self-leadership, offering actionable insights for professionals seeking to redefine their careers.
Best Episodes to Start With:
These episodes reflect the podcast’s energetic, real-world approach to leadership and performance:
Episode Format & Frequency: Weekly episodes featuring interviews and solo commentary.
Where to Listen: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other streaming services
Host(s) & Background: Fay Wallis, a career and executive coach, guides HR professionals in advancing their careers and developing leadership skills.
What You’ll Learn: Get practical advice on confidence building, career planning, and effective communication. Fay’s approachable style makes complex concepts accessible to listeners at all career stages.
Best Episodes to Start With:
With over a hundred episodes covering all things HR, these are great starting points for career-minded listeners:
- “HR career ambitions: Is the Chief People Officer (CPO) role right for you?”
- “Create your perfect professional development plan in 8 simple steps”
Episode Format & Frequency: Biweekly episodes featuring solo insights or expert interviews.
Where to Listen: Available on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and Spotify
Compliance & Legal
Host(s) & Background: Michael Schmidt, Vice Chair of Cozen O’Connor’s Labor & Employment Department, brings his extensive legal expertise to the Employment Law Now podcast. With a focus on current employment law news and trends, Schmidt provides analysis and commentary to help employers navigate complex legal landscapes.
What You’ll Learn: Schmidt’s discussions on regulatory changes, court decisions, and compliance equip listeners with the knowledge to make informed decisions in their companies.
Best Episodes to Start With:
We recommend keeping up with the newest episodes to stay informed on the latest developments and regulatory changes:
- “New DEI Executive Order Update and Response to EEOC Guidance”
- “What’s Going on With Employment Law Trends”
Episode Format & Frequency: Episodes are released periodically, featuring solo commentary and expert interviews.
Where to Listen: Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts
Host(s) & Background: Karen Michael, an employment attorney, author of “Stay Hired,” and former HR executive, merges this experience for an inside look into workplace legal issues.
What You’ll Learn: The Job Judge Podcast delivers practical advice for HR, managers and employers on performance improvement, employee accommodations, workplace investigations, and more.
Best Episodes to Start With:
For more foundational HR insights, we chose episodes that are widely applicable to everyday workplace challenges:
- “The Silence Stops Here: Navigating Sexual Harassment and Employer Liability”
- “Can You Talk About Pay with Your Coworkers? – Employee Protections and Employer Obligations”
- “5 Behaviors That Will Get You Fired in 2025”
Episode Format & Frequency: Periodic episodes featuring case discussions and practical guidance.
Where to Listen: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube
Host(s) & Background: Produced by the law firm Epstein Becker Green, Employment Law This Week offers concise updates on employment and labor law developments. The podcast is part of a broader multimedia series to keep professionals informed.
What You’ll Learn: The podcast covers top legal developments, court decisions, and workforce management trends, providing concise insights for employers and HR professionals.
Best Episodes to Start With:
Start with the latest episodes for timely insights into specific legal developments:
- “Can the President Fire NLRB Members Without Cause? SCOTUS May Decide”
- “New Executive Order Targets Disparate Impact Claims Nationwide”
Episode Format & Frequency: Weekly episodes featuring legal updates and expert interviews.
Where to Listen: Available on Epstein Becker Green’s website and other popular podcast and streaming platforms
Learning & Development
Host(s) & Background: Produced by the U.K. Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), these podcasts feature experts discussing pressing issues in HR and L&D.
What You’ll Learn: The series is known for its evidence-based approach, drawing on research and professionals’ insights. Episodes cover topics such as aligning learning with organizational development, the impact of artificial intelligence on L&D, and strategies for effective workplace learning.
Best Episodes to Start With:
Start here for a mix of future-focused and foundational topics that showcase CIPD’s depth and credibility in the L&D space:
- “Podcast 218: Bridging Learning and Organisational Development”
- “Podcast 206: Evidence-Based L&D – The Gift of Artificial Intelligence“
Episode Format & Frequency: Episodes are released periodically, featuring interviews and panel discussions.
Where to Listen: Available on Spotify, Soundcloud, Apple Podcasts, and other podcast platforms
2) The Learning & Development Podcast
Host(s) & Background: Hosted by David James, Chief Learning Officer at 360Learning, this podcast delves into contemporary L&D challenges and innovations.
What You’ll Learn: How to leverage technology for impactful learning, aligning L&D with business goals, and promoting a culture of ongoing progress.
Best Episodes to Start With:
If you’re new to the show, these episodes capture its mission, focused on practical strategies, expert voices, and a clear focus on organizational impact:
- “The Great Reset: Unlocking the Power of Organisational Learning With Nigel Paine”
- “The Long-Distance Leader, Revised Rules for Remarkable Remote and Hybrid Leadership With Wayne Turmel”
Episode Format & Frequency: Biweekly episodes featuring interviews and topical discussions.
Where to Listen: Available on the 360Learning website, Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts
Host(s) & Background: Nick Day, founder of JGA Recruitment, hosts this podcast focusing on the intersection of HR and L&D. Nick engages with top HR leaders to explore strategies for optimizing workforce performance and development.
What You’ll Learn: The podcast covers leadership development, employee engagement, diversity and inclusion, and building high-performing teams. Listeners gain insights into agile HR practices and innovative learning solutions.
Best Episodes to Start With:
A well-rounded starting point for listeners interested in impactful HR conversations through a learning lens:
- “How to Handle Difficult Conversations in Your Workplace with Todd Davis”
- “Why 1 in 3 Job Skills Are Already Obsolete (And What HR Must Do Now) | Cole Napper”
Episode Format & Frequency: Episodes are released regularly, featuring interviews with HR and L&D experts.
Where to Listen: Available on the JGA Recruitment website, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other popular platforms
Must-Listen Episodes from Top HR Podcasts
If you don’t have time to dive into the whole podcast list, we recommend starting with these individual episodes:
- For first-time listeners: Why HR is Needed with Matt Taylor, President of Guardian HR by HR Besties
The episode’s lighthearted and humorous approach makes it an excellent starting point for those new to HR podcasts or human resources.
- For professionals building their podcast playlist: How to Change Your Workplace by WorkLife with Adam Grant
In this episode, Grant’s expertise and approachable style are showcased, balancing engaging storytelling and actionable advice.
It’s perfect for any professional seeking to understand and implement change in their work environments.
- For seasoned HR podcast fans: Elevating HR as a Strategic Business Partner in the C-Suite by #WorkTrends
This must-listen episode features KeyAnna Schmiedl, Chief Human Experience Officer at Workhuman. It offers in-depth discussions on how HR can add value to executive-level conversations and empower teams for long-term impact.
Finally, Rivermate CEO and HR expert Lucas Botzen recommends an episode of Redefining HR for those looking for a show that goes beyond surface-level advice. The podcast stands out to him because it consistently features forward-thinking leaders from companies pioneering new people strategy approaches.
“What I particularly love is that it doesn’t sugarcoat challenges—it digs into the complexities of real-time HR transformations, whether it’s how to scale culture in a fast-growing startup or how to implement equitable compensation frameworks in global teams.”
His top pick?
Episode 23 with HubSpot Chief People Officer, Katie Burke.
“She broke down how their team rebuilt trust during a tough period of organizational change,” explains Botzen.
“That kind of transparency and practical advice is rare and valuable.”
How to Choose the Right HR Podcasts for Your Role
The “right” podcast looks, or rather sounds, different for everyone.
Despite reviewing the best HR podcasts for professionals by category and some must-listen episodes, choosing one depends on the role, professional needs, and individual preferences.
For example, a CHRO focused on strategic workforce planning will have different needs than an HR coordinator handling day-to-day employee relations, and a benefits specialist will seek out expertise different from that of a talent acquisition manager.
Therefore, when selecting the right podcasts, the listener should consider choosing a podcast that aligns with the role responsibilities and current challenges.
Some shows dive into advanced topics, while others offer practical tips for all backgrounds.
Some learn better from interview-style conversations with industry leaders, while others prefer solo commentary or panel discussions that break down complex topics.
Time restrictions may also require shorter episodes instead of lengthy ones.
The ideal podcast looks different for everyone, and the market has so many flavors from which one can choose.
To get the most value, especially for leaders, Lucas Botzen suggests being intentional:
“Pick a podcast that aligns with your biggest leadership challenge—whether it’s DEI, talent acquisition, or change management—and build a habit of listening weekly.”
He then advises on converting knowledge into meaningful action:
“I also recommend turning your insights into action: for instance, after an episode on psychological safety, I created space in our team meetings for anonymous feedback and started modeling more vulnerability as a leader.
Finally, engage with the podcast’s community on LinkedIn or Twitter.
Commenting, sharing takeaways, and asking questions can spark dialogue and even lead to valuable connections.”
Podcast Listening Strategies for Maximum Impact
A podcast’s impact depends on how purposefully you listen.
But finding the time to do so can be a real challenge.
The good news is that the best HR podcasts for professionals, even the busiest ones, can fit seamlessly into an existing daily routine with the right strategy. The following listening methods are three practical ways to make this happen.
The Commute Method
According to Census data, the average worker travels 26.8 minutes to work in one direction. With over 50 minutes of commute daily, this method works particularly well for busy professionals who struggle to find dedicated learning time during their workday.
Choosing episodes should match the commute length. For example, shorter episodes suit city driving with frequent stops, while longer, deep-dive conversations fit highway commutes or public transit rides.
This method’s greatest strength is its consistency.
Establishing a routine allows individuals to engage with at least a few hours of HR content weekly without interrupting an existing schedule.
The Deep Dive Approach
Another strategy is the deep dive approach, which involves setting aside dedicated 60-90 minute sessions to fully focus on podcast content, similar to a professional development workshop.
During these sessions, listeners can listen without distractions, take detailed notes, and immediately research any tools, frameworks, or resources mentioned.
This approach works best for specific topics and challenges. It concentrates on targeted episodes to build in-depth knowledge and develop actionable plans.
The Sampling Strategy
Opposite of the deep dive method, the sampling strategy involves listening to the first 10-15 minutes of multiple episodes to quickly decide what’s worth listening to and what’s not.
This approach helps build a curated list of preferred shows and fresh insights, making it ideal for those new to HR podcasts or those looking to broaden their usual selections.
Emerging HR Podcast Trends in 2025
Podcasts, as a broad category, are rapidly evolving from audio-only shows to video and audio formats, with platforms like YouTube and Spotify leading the charge.
In addition to this one, Forbes also identifies six other emerging trends:
- AI-powered content and personalization
- Emphasis on creativity and storytelling
- Shorter “bite-sized” episodes designed for busy listeners
- Highly specialized shows targeting niche audiences
- Collaborative, omnichannel marketing strategies
- Data-led optimization to optimize content and listener engagement
HR podcasts are no exception.
They embrace these trends while their content and style evolve alongside the challenges companies face daily.
The best ones mirror the workplace itself: fast-moving, people-focused, and constantly adapting.
International HR Perspectives
While most recommendations for the best HR podcasts for professionals focus on U.S.-based content, workplace challenges transcend geographical boundaries.
For HR professionals, particularly those at growing companies with global aspirations, engaging with international podcasts offers vital perspectives that domestic shows can’t provide.
For example, European HR leaders bring valuable insights into GDPR compliance frameworks and progressive leave policies that are increasingly influencing U.S. workplace standards.
Meanwhile, Asia-Pacific-focused podcasts explore approaches to employee engagement or organizational culture that challenge traditional Western management thinking.
As remote work blurs geographical lines, hearing international perspectives proves invaluable for professionals seeking to understand global workforce trends, develop cross-cultural management strategies, and navigate how different regulatory environments shape modern HR practices.
Beyond Podcasts: Building Your HR Learning Ecosystem
As we wrap up this article, it’s important to mention that even the best HR podcasts for professionals work better as part of a larger learning strategy, rather than as a standalone resource.
For the complete experience, we’ve compiled a list of complementary materials that offer credible insights, as well as support skill development and community engagement.
HR Blogs, Publications, and Newsletters
- Shortlister Insights for thought leadership content and the latest HR technology, wellness, and benefits trends
- SHMR HR Newsletter for timely news, legal updates, and practical resources from one of the top HR associations
- AIHR HR Blog and Resources for insights on digital HR, analytics, and future-focused strategies
- The HR Digest for global coverage of HR news, strategies, and industry developments
Professional Development Certifications
- SHRM Certification (SHRM-CP & SHRM-SCP) – focused on behavioral competencies and HR knowledge
- HRCI Certifications – a wide range of certifications, including PHR and SPHR, for operational and strategic HR management
- AIHR Certifications – online courses on people analytics, digital HR, and more
HR Communities
Written by tamara jovanovska
Content Writer at Shortlister
Sources
- Number Of Podcast Consumers in The United States From 2024 To 2025
- Share Of Monthly Podcast Consumers in the United States From 2008 To 2025
- Leading Reasons for Listening to Podcasts in the United States as of February 2019
- United States Commuting at a Glance: American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates
- Seven Emerging Trends in the Podcasting Landscape
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