In today’s competitive business landscape, small and medium-sized business (SMB) managers need every advantage possible. One of the most accessible tools for continuous professional development is the podcast. Whether you’re commuting, working out, or taking a lunch break, these audio gems can transform downtime into growth opportunities.
However, with hundreds of thousands of options, finding the right show can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. That’s why we’ve curated this list of 5 Essential Podcasts designed specifically for SMB managers who want to strengthen their leadership and hiring skills.
1. Manager Tools
Hosted by Michael Auzenne and Mark Horstman, this long-running podcast delivers practical management advice. Their “one thing per podcast” approach ensures you’ll leave each episode with a clear, actionable takeaway.
Why it’s essential: Manager Tools simplifies complex management concepts into easy-to-apply steps. Episodes on effective interviewing and meaningful feedback are especially useful for refining your hiring process.
Standout episodes:
“Feedback Examples”
“How to Conduct a Professional Interview”
“Behavioral Interviewing Series”
2. Hire Power Radio Show
Hire Power Radio Show focuses specifically on recruitment and retention strategies for SMBs. It addresses the unique challenges managers face when competing against larger companies for top talent.
Why it’s essential: This show provides solutions that work within smaller hiring budgets and limited HR resources. The hosts frequently feature SMB owners who share real-world hiring experiences.
Standout episodes:
“Onboarding that Creates Loyalty”
“Creating an Irresistible Company Culture on a Budget”
“Red Flags in the Interview Process”
3. The Thoughtful Leader Podcast with Ben Brearley
What about after you’ve made a hire? Leadership coach Ben Brearley shares practical techniques for improving team performance and workplace satisfaction.
Why it’s essential: Brearley focuses on sustainable leadership practices that help prevent burnout while maximizing team productivity. This is crucial for SMB managers who often juggle multiple roles.
Standout episodes:
“Building a High-Performance Team Culture”
“How to Delegate Effectively”
“Managing Performance Problems”
4. People Managing People
This podcast offers deep insights into people management challenges in growing businesses. It’s a must-listen for SMB leaders looking to balance strategy with tactical execution.
Why it’s essential: Every episode provides frameworks and tools that managers can use right away to enhance hiring decisions and team management.
Standout episodes:
“Performance Reviews that Actually Work”
“Creating an Effective Hiring Pipeline”
“Developing Leadership Within Your Team”
5. WorkLife with Adam Grant
Organizational psychologist Adam Grant explores the science behind building productive and meaningful workplaces. His evidence-based approach is a standout in the podcast world.
Why it’s essential: Grant helps managers make decisions based on research rather than fleeting management trends. His episodes reveal how to build cohesive and resilient teams.
Standout episodes:
- “How to Build an Amazing Team”
- “The Science of the Perfect Interview”
- “Resilience Is About How You Recharge”
Why Continuous Learning Matters for SMB Managers
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!
