For many of us, the daily commute is a routine we’d rather get through as quickly as possible. Sitting in traffic, commuting on the train, or walking straight to the office, these minutes can really feel wasted. But what if they became some of the most valuable parts of your day?
Podcasts remain an easy way to turn your travel time into something more productive. Make your workday a prime opportunity to simply learn something new. With a pair of robust headphones and the right show, your commute can shift from dull to uplifting. We’ve handpicked some of the best podcasts for your commute that can motivate, inspire and fit neatly into your busy workday.
The Psychology Podcast
Hosted by psychologist Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman, The Psychology Podcast dives into creativity, human potential, emotional intelligence, and self-development. Through lively conversations with leading thinkers like Angela Duckworth, Daniel Kahneman, and Esther Perel, it sheds light on what makes us tick, both individually and collectively.
Episodes typically run 30–60 minutes, making them easy to fit between meetings or on your ride home. You’ll find topics like:
- Turning Ideas Into Action with Dr. Zorana Ivcevic Pringle
- How to Be a Supercommunicator with Charles Duhigg
- Think Bigger and Innovate with Sheena Iyengar,
- Find the Potential in Change with Maya Shankar
- The Journey of Leadership with Alisa Cohn
- Meet Your Future Self with Hal Hershfield.
Expect to walk away with fresh perspectives on problem-solving, resilience, communication, and collaboration, tools that can make both your work and life run a little smoother.
Being Boss®
For anyone who has ever dreamed of working on their own terms, Being Boss® is a motivating listen. Hosted by Emily Thompson, this podcast is especially useful for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and creative professionals.
The show blends mindset coaching with practical business strategies, helping listeners align their work with their personal values. With over 11 million downloads and guest appearances from the likes of Brené Brown, Marie Forleo, and Jasmine Star, it’s become a staple in the creative business community.
Episodes are split into formats like Being Boss, 10 Minutes to Being Boss, and Being Boss Minisodes, so whether you want a quick tip or a deep dive, there’s something to fit your commute. Significant episodes of interest include From Being Boss to New Horizons, Your Business Values in Action and Evolving and Pivoting Your Business.
How I Built This
Launched in 2016 by NPR journalist Guy Raz, How I Built This tells the stories behind some of the world’s most iconic companies. Each episode explores the pivotal decisions, failures, and breakthroughs by some of the biggest names that have shaped today’s most recognisable brands.
With more than 700 episodes and multiple industry awards, including the 2023 Webby Award for Best Business Podcast, the show has become a source of inspiration for professionals seeking insight into leadership and innovation.
Episodes are long enough to keep you engaged on a drive yet structured in a way that makes it easy to dip in and out if you’re on public transport. Perfect for a burst of entrepreneurial motivation.
Morning Quickie
Sometimes, you just want something light, fast, and fun before starting your daily tasks. Morning Quickie, hosted by Lauryn Evarts Bosstick and Michael Bosstick, is just that! A daily dose of trending topics, pop culture, and lifestyle discussions delivered with humour and energy, perfect for getting you energised for the day.
Episodes are short enough to catch on the way to the office or while grabbing a coffee. Popular topics have included:
- The Power of Financial Freedom and Mindset with Morgan Housel
- Invest in Yourself with Mimi Bouchard
- Overcoming Intimidation and Finding Passion with Megan Roup
Think of it as a conversation starter — something you can bring up with colleagues over lunch, while waiting for a meeting to start or by the coffee machine.
Getting Things Done®
For those who love a good system, Getting Things Done® (GTD) is a podcast designed around David Allen’s productivity methodology. Through interviews and personal stories, it teaches practical ways to stay organised and stress-free, even with a packed schedule.
If you’ve ever ended the day wondering where the time went, this podcast offers frameworks to regain control and focus.
Beyond the To-Do List
Hosted by Erik Fisher since 2012, Beyond the To-Do List isn’t about cramming more into your schedule, but about working with intention. With nearly 600 episodes, Fisher interviews authors, researchers, and creatives about how productivity can support practical living.
Episodes typically last 40–50 minutes, making them a solid choice for a longer commute. Topics range from focus and creativity to managing digital distractions. Guests also share not just tips, but also the struggles behind their own productivity journeys, which makes the advice feel real and relatable.
Career Contessa
For women navigating the corporate world, The Career Contessa Podcast is both practical and supportive. The podcast covers job searches, promotions, negotiation, leadership, and work-life balance, all with a focus on building a career that feels fulfilling.
Since its launch in 2018, the podcast has grown to over 10 seasons, offering a library of conversations to explore. Recent episodes include:
- What’s Really Holding You Back at Work? (It’s Not What You Think)
- Say What You Mean: How to Become a More Assertive Communicator
- How to Have Difficult Conversations Without Burning Bridges
It’s a thoughtful companion for women who want practical strategies while also feeling seen in their career challenges.
Make the Most of Your Commute
Our commutes can feel like an inevitable, repetitive part of the day, but with the right podcast, you can turn this time into something meaningful and productive. You learn something new, laugh, or even rethink the way you approach both life and work.
Sharpen your leadership skills, find new ways to manage stress, or simply enjoy a conversation; there’s a podcast here to match your mood. Let your headphones turn your routine journey into something a little more rewarding.