I often get asked how I stay motivated all the time. While I could go on and on about my to-do list strategy, my time management tricks, or my afternoon coffee runs — the truth is that I have a secret weapon.

Podcasts!

They can slot into your life as easily as your Spotify app. Whether you’re driving to work, grabbing a latte, or huddled among human traffic during rush hour — the best podcasts will put you in the right frame of mind to conquer your goals.

And before you say that you’re not a “podcast” person or that you’re not into the second season of Serial, let me say that I’m convinced there’s a series out there for everyone. In fact, I’m so convinced that I’ve made a list of the six best podcasts for motivation, advice, and even a little zen. Plus, I’ve include the best episode to start with for each one. Because unlike TV, you don’t always have to go in order.

Here are the best podcasts for a big career boost:

1. Podcast: The James Altucher Show

I’ve known James for years and he’s a mentor of mine. He’s a former hedge fund manager turned bestselling author and he thinks differently. His interviews are blunt, refreshing, and honest and include thought leaders like Tim Ferriss, Seth Godin, and Austin Kleon. Throughout every episode he asks hard questions and challenges conventional wisdom. Tune in to hear his thoughts on why business school is a scam, ideas are the most valuable currency, and even how to make seven figures a year on YouTube. Not only will you be inspired to create, but you’ll laugh out loud. Hands down one of the best podcasts out there. 

Best Episode to Start With: Episode 36, Ramit Sethi — What Does it Mean to Have a Really Rich Life?

2. Podcast: The School of Greatness with Lewis Howes

Jam-packed with inspiring stories from business minds, celebrities, and athletes, Lewis, a former athlete and New York Times bestselling author explores common qualities that make people successful. His focus on resilience is particularly inspiring if you’re currently experiencing some negative criticism from your boss or a rejection from a job you really wanted.

Best Episode to Start With: The 10 Success Principles to Create Abundance With Jack Canfield

3. Podcast: The Charged Life with Brendon Burchard

A high performance expert and New York Times bestselling author, Burchard taps into the human drives that make us feel alive. He refers to this as living a “charged” life. He’s the best to tune into when you need a real boost or an attitude adjustment. Personally, I use this as a Monday morning energy injection that gets me pumped for the week ahead.

Best Episode to Start With: How Incredibly Successful People Think

4. Podcast: Tara Brach

Stressed at work? Infuriating boss? Disappointing start to the year? Tara has you covered. Because she’s a Buddhist teacher, her meditations and talks centre you and help you just breathe. So if you’re operating on adrenaline and finding it hard to relax or focus (a.k.a., everyone), this podcast will help you relax, reframe, and just be more present, wherever you are.

Best Episode to Start With: Real But Not True

5. Podcast: This Is Your Life with Michael Hyatt

Hyatt, a former publishing house CEO, gives highly practical tips on how to boost your energy, become a morning person, escape perfectionism, delegate effectively (even without a team!), and say no with ease. Sounds amazing, right? It’s now in its sixth season, so scroll through and you’ll find an episode for almost any current career challenge.

Best Episode to Start With: Season 5, Episode 5—How to Finally Achieve Work-Life Balance

6. Podcast: Being Boss with Emily Thompson and Kathleen Shannon

This podcast has a large following of creative entrepreneurs.

It has plenty of practical advice for everyone out there trying to create their dream jobs, whatever that may be. It’s for leaders who want to be the boss of their own lives and careers — and don’t want to wait any longer to get started. Needless to say, it’s a must-listen for anyone with a side hustle or dreams of one day running their own business.

Best Episode to Start With: #42 Brene Brown

Improving your career starts with your mindset. So tune in to the wisdom, tune out the noise, and get ready to dial up the volume of your impact this year.

So, what do you feel are the best podcasts?