Tune In and Feel Inspired: 9 Podcasts Everyone’s Listening to for Motivation and Fun

There’s something special about pressing play on the right podcast. Whether you’re stuck in traffic, folding laundry, walking the dog, or winding down before bed, a good podcast can turn an ordinary moment into something memorable. It can make you laugh, shift your mindset, or even spark that long-overdue motivation to chase your goals.

In the world of endless audio content, it can be hard to know which shows are actually worth your time. That’s why we’ve rounded up nine podcasts that U.S. listeners can’t stop talking about—shows that deliver inspiration, laughter, and real-life value in every episode. From powerful success stories to simple daily habits and heartfelt conversations, these podcasts prove that a little audio can make a big impact on your mood and mindset.

1. How I Built This with Guy Raz

If you love hearing the real stories behind big success, How I Built This is a must-listen. Host Guy Raz sits down with entrepreneurs, creators, and dreamers to uncover how some of the world’s best-known companies came to be. It’s not just about the victories—it’s about the late nights, setbacks, and moments of doubt that every builder faces. You’ll come away realizing that every successful journey starts with someone taking a leap of faith, often when things looked impossible. It’s motivating, insightful, and surprisingly human.

2. The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

Happiness might feel like a mystery, but Dr. Laurie Santos has made it her mission to explain it in simple, science-backed ways. Based on her popular Yale course, The Happiness Lab explores what truly makes us happy—from gratitude and connection to mindset and habits. Dr. Santos has a friendly, down-to-earth tone that makes each episode feel like a conversation with a wise friend rather than a lecture. You’ll find yourself rethinking what joy really means and how to cultivate more of it in your daily life.

3. Unlocking Us with Brené Brown

Brené Brown is known for her honest, heartfelt approach to life’s most complicated emotions. In Unlocking Us, she dives deep into vulnerability, courage, empathy, and connection—topics that resonate with anyone who has ever tried to be a better version of themselves. Her guests range from psychologists to artists and even everyday people with extraordinary insights. Listening to Brené feels like therapy and coffee with a friend rolled into one. It’s the kind of podcast that makes you feel seen, heard, and understood.

4. The Mel Robbins Podcast

If you need a push to get moving, The Mel Robbins Podcast delivers a healthy dose of tough love and practical advice. Mel has an incredible way of simplifying complex ideas into small, doable actions. Whether she’s talking about building confidence, breaking bad habits, or dealing with anxiety, her episodes always leave you feeling more empowered and less stuck. She’s relatable, funny, and refreshingly honest about her own struggles—which makes every tip feel that much more real.

5. Good Life Project with Jonathan Fields

For listeners seeking a deeper sense of purpose, Good Life Project hits the mark. Jonathan Fields hosts intimate conversations with guests who share their stories of courage, creativity, and growth. What makes this podcast stand out is its warmth and sincerity—each episode feels like a heartfelt chat about what it really means to live a fulfilling life. You’ll find yourself reflecting on your own values and what truly matters most.

6. Tiny Leaps, Big Changes with Greg Clunis

Ever feel like personal growth is too overwhelming? Tiny Leaps, Big Changes makes it feel doable. Greg Clunis focuses on the small, consistent actions that lead to meaningful progress over time. His calm, encouraging delivery makes even the toughest self-improvement topics feel approachable. This podcast is a reminder that success doesn’t happen in giant leaps—it happens one intentional step at a time.

7. The Daily Motivation Show with Lewis Howes

Sometimes you just need a quick shot of motivation to start your day, and The Daily Motivation Show delivers exactly that. Host Lewis Howes shares bite-sized wisdom from inspiring figures—authors, athletes, and experts—on topics like discipline, gratitude, and mindset. The episodes are short and energizing, making them perfect for your morning commute or daily workout. It’s like a quick pep talk that gets you moving in the right direction.

8. Inspire Nation Show with Michael Sandler

If you’re drawn to spirituality and self-growth, Inspire Nation Show offers a blend of both. Host Michael Sandler interviews thought leaders, healers, and authors on topics like mindfulness, intuition, and resilience. The show balances soulful reflection with practical advice, so you can actually apply what you learn to everyday life. It’s the kind of podcast that leaves you feeling grounded, inspired, and ready to face the world with a little more calm and clarity.

9. Good Hang with Amy Poehler

Sometimes inspiration doesn’t have to come from self-help or serious talk—it can come from laughter and connection. That’s exactly what Good Hang with Amy Poehler brings to the table. Amy’s signature humor and warmth shine through as she chats with friends, fellow comedians, and creatives about life, love, and everything in between. The conversations are honest, funny, and often surprisingly heartfelt. It’s the perfect listen when you want something light but still meaningful—a reminder that joy is a form of inspiration too.

Final Thoughts

Podcasts have become one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to feed your mind and spirit. They fit seamlessly into our everyday routines—on the treadmill, during your commute, or while doing chores—and can instantly lift your mood or shift your perspective. The best part? You don’t need hours to feel inspired. Even one powerful conversation or quick 10-minute episode can change the course of your day.

Whether you’re drawn to practical motivation, deep emotional insight, or simply a good laugh, these nine podcasts offer something special for everyone. They remind us that inspiration doesn’t have to come from grand gestures or life-changing events—it can come from a single voice in your ear saying, “You’ve got this.”

So the next time you reach for your earbuds, choose a show that not only entertains you but also makes you think, laugh, or dream a little bigger. Because sometimes, the right podcast isn’t just background noise—it’s a spark that helps you see your life in a whole new way.