An Introduction to Podcasts for the Aspiring Public Relations Pro

By Michelle Hauff

It’s 2019 and Podcasts are quickly becoming the cream-of-the-crop of the media broadcasting world, if they haven’t already. For the public relations professional, the medium has much to offer. From an additional platform to reach audiences to  a place for insider industry news podcasts are becoming a replacement for the water-cooler conversations in the reusable-water-bottle-toting, ever-evolving, modern workplace. If you haven’t jumped on the podcast bandwagon yet, this list is the perfect place to test the (free!) waters. 

“The Daily” 

Okay, here’s the deal. As a human, you should be listening to The Daily, well, daily. Host Michael Barbaro gives in-depth coverage of the most important happenings in the world and why they matter. The podcast is powered by the New York Times which means: 1) It’s legit, and 2) tTey have an extensive network of journalists stationed all around the world, so you get the real picture fast. Consider it your duty as a citizen to be informed of the world around you. You’re welcome!
Start here: “The Life and Death of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi”

“Detail Therapy with Amy Landino”

Amy Landino is out to make you a better person, and all you need to do is listen to her podcast. Detail Therapy offers in-depth interviews with gamechanger entrepreneurs of all kinds and delves into what makes them so great. If you’re looking for a little life-inspo for people who do it well, look no further than Detail Therapy. 
Start here: Dr. Debi Silber – The Art of Emotional Intelligence

“Invisibilia”

I think it’s safe to say that by understanding the underlying impulses of human behavior and the themes that shape our culture, you can become better at understanding key audiences and their behavior. However, that is no simple task. Thankfully, “Invisibilia” produced by NPR is here for you. It explores complex themes like predicting uncertainty, real life vs. online presence and how avoiding pain has shaped our culture. Learning to understand human motives can take you from simply working in public relations to a true professional. 
Start here: Post, Shoot 

“How I built This” with Guy Raz

The infamous Guy Raz, host of “TED Radio Hour” created “How I Built This” to dig up the history of amazing innovators and their businesses. On the podcast, he interviews the likes of Shopify creator Tobias Lutke, James Dyson of Dyson products, and Jeremy Stoppelman, the guy behind Yelp.  The point of the show is to get the story of their journey, the ups, the downs, the real ugly of what it took to get them where they are today. This one is for those who aren’t afraid to dream big. 
Start Here: Serial Entrepreneur: Marcia Kilgore

“PR With the Pros”

This last podcast is brought to you by PRSA, so you know its quality. It’s made with students in mind and offers glimpses into the life of a professional in the field of public relations and their strategies for success. This podcast is great if you want the true rundown of a PR career and also serves as a reminder of the many benefits of joining PRSA and PRSSA for your future. 
 Start Here: PR With The Pros: Steve Radick
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What podcasts are you listening to? Add your recommendations in the comments below.