Rachel McFarland
In today’s competitive business landscape, small and medium-sized business (SMB) managers need every advantage they can get. One of the most accessible and valuable resources for continuous professional development is the humble podcast. Whether you’re commuting, working out, or taking a lunch break, these audio gems can transform downtime into opportunities for growth.But with literally hundreds of thousands out there it can sometimes feel like looking for a needle in a haystack.
That’s why we’ve compiled five essential podcasts that focus specifically on helping SMB managers enhance their leadership skills and improve their hiring processes. Each of these shows offers actionable insights that you can implement immediately in your business and management style.
This long-running podcast hosted by Michael Auzenne and Mark Horstman is a wealth of practical management advice. Their “one thing per podcast” approach means you’ll walk away from each episode with a clear, implementable takeaway. Get ready to fill your notebook with specific action items to implement.
Why it’s essential: Manager Tools breaks down complex management concepts into digestible, actionable steps. The episodes that focus on conducting effective interviews and providing meaningful feedback are particularly helpful for SMB’s hiring process.Standout episodes: “How to Conduct a Professional Interview,” “Behavioral Interviewing Series,” and “Feedback Examples.”
Specifically focused on recruitment and retention, Hire Power Radio SHow addresses the unique challenges SMB managers face when competing against larger organizations for top talent.
Why it’s essential: This podcast offers strategies that work within the constraints of smaller hiring budgets and limited HR resources. The hosts regularly bring in SMB owners who have successfully built high-performing teams to share their experience and insights.
Standout episodes: “Creating an Irresistible Company Culture on a Budget,” “Red Flags in the Interview Process,” and “Onboarding that Creates Loyalty.”
What about after you make a hire? This podcast is hosted by leadership coach Ben Brearley, and focuses on practical leadership techniques that improve team performance and workplace satisfaction.
Why it’s essential: Brearley’s approach emphasizes sustainable leadership practices that prevent burnout while maximizing team output – crucial for SMB managers who often wear multiple hats.
Standout episodes: “How to Delegate Effectively,” “Managing Performance Problems,” and “Building a High-Performance Team Culture.”
This podcast dives deep into people management challenges faced by growing businesses and is an essential for SMB leaders. The content strikes an excellent balance between strategic thinking and tactical execution.
Why it’s essential: Every episode provides frameworks and tools that SMB managers can implement immediately to improve their hiring decisions and team management.
Standout episodes: “Creating an Effective Hiring Pipeline,” “Developing Leadership Within Your Team,” and “Performance Reviews that Actually Work.”
Organizational psychologist Adam Grant explores the science behind creating more productive and meaningful work environments.
Why it’s essential: Grant’s evidence-based approach helps SMB managers make decisions grounded in research rather than trendy management fads. His explorations of workplace dynamics provide valuable insights for building cohesive teams.
Standout episodes: “How to Build an Amazing Team,” “The Science of the Perfect Interview,” and “Resilience Is About How You Recharge.”
The landscape of management and recruitment is constantly evolving and as a leader it is important to stay curious. By tuning into these podcasts regularly, you’ll stay ahead of emerging trends and hopefully avoid common pitfalls that plague many small and medium-sized businesses.
Remember, the best managers are perpetual students – constantly staying curious. constantly looking for ways to improve their leadership skills and hiring practices. These five podcasts offer an accessible path to that continuous improvement.
Which management podcasts have you found most helpful in your journey? We’d love to hear your recommendations in the comments below!