The 5 Podcasts That Will Make You Smarter in 2026 (I’ve Tested Hundreds)
Mon Feb 02 2026
In this bonus episode of The 5 to 9 Job, I’m breaking down the best podcasts you should be listening to in 2026 — based on real listening time, not hype.
In 2025 alone, I spent over 400 hours (almost 18 full days) listening to podcasts across business, psychology, health, relationships, and personal growth. After filtering through the noise, I’ve narrowed it down to five podcasts that consistently deliver value, depth, and perspective — plus a few bonus recommendations at the end.
This episode isn’t about one niche. It’s about becoming sharper, more informed, and more intentional with what you consume.
The Diary of a CEO – Steven BartlettA masterclass in business, health, mindset, and human behaviour. From elite guests to 1% improvements, this podcast sets the standard.
Prof G Markets – Scott GallowaySmart, sharp, and brutally honest breakdowns of markets, business, and current events — with humour that actually lands.
TED Talks DailyShort, powerful ideas from some of the world’s leading thinkers. Perfect for daily perspective shifts and curiosity fuel.
Optimal Living Daily (OLD Network)Bite-sized personal development across productivity, health, finance, and relationships — ideal if you want growth without overwhelm.
Modern Wisdom – Chris WilliamsonLong-form, thoughtful conversations with people who’ve actually done the work. Real depth, no fluff, and some of the best guests on the internet.
How to choose podcasts intentionally instead of auto-downloading everything
Why playback speed matters (and how I use it strategically)
How to match podcasts to your current season of life
A few honourable mentions that narrowly missed the top five
If you want to stay mentally sharp, inspired, and grounded going into 2026, this episode is a great place to start.
👉 Save this episode, try one new podcast from the list this week, and let me know which one hits for you.
And if this helped, don’t forget to follow, rate, and share The 5 to 9 Job — we’re building something meaningful here.
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In this bonus episode of The 5 to 9 Job, I’m breaking down the best podcasts you should be listening to in 2026 — based on real listening time, not hype. In 2025 alone, I spent over 400 hours (almost 18 full days) listening to podcasts across business, psychology, health, relationships, and personal growth. After filtering through the noise, I’ve narrowed it down to five podcasts that consistently deliver value, depth, and perspective — plus a few bonus recommendations at the end. This episode isn’t about one niche. It’s about becoming sharper, more informed, and more intentional with what you consume. The Diary of a CEO – Steven BartlettA masterclass in business, health, mindset, and human behaviour. From elite guests to 1% improvements, this podcast sets the standard. Prof G Markets – Scott GallowaySmart, sharp, and brutally honest breakdowns of markets, business, and current events — with humour that actually lands. TED Talks DailyShort, powerful ideas from some of the world’s leading thinkers. Perfect for daily perspective shifts and curiosity fuel. Optimal Living Daily (OLD Network)Bite-sized personal development across productivity, health, finance, and relationships — ideal if you want growth without overwhelm. Modern Wisdom – Chris WilliamsonLong-form, thoughtful conversations with people who’ve actually done the work. Real depth, no fluff, and some of the best guests on the internet. How to choose podcasts intentionally instead of auto-downloading everything Why playback speed matters (and how I use it strategically) How to match podcasts to your current season of life A few honourable mentions that narrowly missed the top five If you want to stay mentally sharp, inspired, and grounded going into 2026, this episode is a great place to start. 👉 Save this episode, try one new podcast from the list this week, and let me know which one hits for you. And if this helped, don’t forget to follow, rate, and share The 5 to 9 Job — we’re building something meaningful here. 🎧 Podcasts Covered:🧠 Also Covered: