Press play. Breathe in. Breathe out.
In the chaos of modern life, where the mind races and the world rarely pauses, finding moments of calm can feel like a radical act. Podcasts have become more than just background noise; they’re a lifeline, a space to unpack what's heavy on our minds, and recalibrate the soul.
Whether it’s the soothing cadence of a comforting voice, insights from thought leaders, or simply the permission to sit with your thoughts, these audio sanctuaries are reshaping how we care for ourselves.
Accessible, intimate, and deeply personal, they offer a kind of connection that feels as though it was made just for you. Think of them as your pocket-sized therapist, your motivational coach, or even just a friend who gets it.
Ready to reset this year? This list is your gateway to seven podcasts that invite you to listen, learn, and lean into your well-being.
1. Radio Headspace
About: Hosted by the co-founder of Headspace, Andy Puddicombe, this podcast offers daily mindfulness tips and guided meditations to help listeners start their day with a clear mind. Each episode is designed to be concise, providing practical advice on topics like stress, focus, and sleep.
Release schedule: New episodes are released every weekday.
2. We Can Do Hard Things
About: Hosted by author Glennon Doyle, along with her sister Amanda Doyle and wife Abby Wambach, this podcast delves into honest conversations about life's challenges, mental health, and personal growth. The trio shares personal stories and insights, encouraging listeners to embrace vulnerability and resilience.
Release schedule: New episodes are released twice a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
3. The Happiness Lab
About: Yale professor Dr. Laurie Santos explores the science of well-being, sharing research-backed strategies to increase happiness and debunk common misconceptions about what makes us happy. The podcast translates academic findings into practical advice for everyday life.
Release schedule: New episodes are released weekly during active seasons.
4. Hardcore Self-Help
About: Hosted by psychologist Dr. Robert Duff, this podcast addresses mental health issues in a down-to-earth manner, covering topics like anxiety and depression without overly technical jargon. Dr. Duff provides actionable advice and answers listener questions to make mental health information accessible.
Release schedule: New episodes are typically released weekly.
5. Where Should We Begin with Esther Perel
About: Renowned therapist Esther Perel invites listeners into real-life counseling sessions, offering a rare glimpse into the complexities of relationships and the human psyche. Each episode features anonymized couples navigating various issues, providing deep insights into relational dynamics.
Release schedule: New episodes are released Mondays during each season.
6. Therapy for Black Girls
About: Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, a licensed psychologist, hosts this podcast focusing on mental health topics relevant to Black women, aiming to make therapy more accessible and reduce stigma. The show covers a wide range of subjects, including personal development, self-care, and relationships.
Release schedule: New episodes are released weekly.
7. Mental Illness Happy Hour
About: Comedian Paul Gilmartin hosts in-depth conversations with artists, friends, and mental health professionals, discussing mental illness, trauma, addiction, and negative thinking. The podcast aims to destigmatize mental health issues through candid and often humorous dialogue.
Release schedule: New episodes are released weekly.
8. On Purpose with Jay Shetty
About: Hosted by former monk and purpose coach Jay Shetty, this podcast features insightful conversations with experts and celebrities on topics like mental health, relationships, and personal growth. It aims to provide practical wisdom and actionable advice to help listeners live more meaningful lives.
Release schedule: New episodes are released every Monday and Friday.
9. The Imperfects
About: Hosted by Hugh van Cuylenburg, Ryan Shelton, and Josh van Cuylenburg, this podcast shares candid conversations about mental health, vulnerability, and personal growth, featuring guests from various walks of life. It aims to normalize discussions around imperfection and emotional well-being.
Release schedule: Episodes are released weekly.
10. Meditation Minis Podcast
About: Hosted by hypnotherapist Chel Hamilton, this podcast offers short, guided meditations designed to calm anxiety, overcome negative thinking, and increase confidence. Each episode is typically under 10 minutes, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule.
Release schedule: New episodes are released weekly.
11. Happier With Gretchen Rubin
About: Bestselling author Gretchen Rubin, along with her sister Elizabeth Craft, explores strategies and insights to create happier lives, discussing habits, productivity, and personal growth. The podcast combines research with practical advice and personal anecdotes.
Release schedule: New episodes are released every Wednesday.
12. The Hilarious World of Depression
About: Hosted by John Moe, this podcast features interviews with comedians and entertainers who share their personal experiences with depression, blending humor with candid discussions to destigmatize mental health issues. The show aims to provide comfort and understanding through shared stories.
Release schedule: Episodes were released biweekly until the show's conclusion in June 2020.
13. Thanks For Asking
About: Hosted by journalist and author Amber Ruffin, this podcast addresses listener-submitted questions on a wide range of topics, including mental health, relationships, and societal issues. Ruffin provides thoughtful and often humorous insights, fostering an open dialogue on challenging subjects.
Release schedule: New episodes are released weekly.
14. Unlocking Us by Brene Brown
About: Research professor and author Brené Brown hosts conversations with a variety of guests, exploring the ideas, stories, and experiences that reflect the universal struggles of being human. The podcast delves into topics like vulnerability, courage, and empathy.
Release schedule: New episodes are released weekly.
15. Anything Goes by Emma Chamberlain
About: YouTuber and influencer Emma Chamberlain shares her thoughts and advice on topics ranging from mental health and relationships to fashion and pop culture. The podcast is known for its candid and relatable discussions, resonating with a younger audience.
Release schedule: New episodes are released every Thursday.
16. How to Fail by Elizabeth Day
About: Hosted by journalist and author Elizabeth Day, this podcast celebrates the lessons learned from failure, featuring interviews with notable guests who share their personal stories of setbacks and resilience.
The show aims to reframe failure as an essential part of growth and self-discovery.
Release schedule: New episodes are released weekly during active seasons.
17. The Anxious Truth
About: Hosted by anxiety coach Drew Linsalata, this podcast provides practical advice and evidence-based strategies for understanding and overcoming anxiety disorders.
Each episode dives deep into topics like panic attacks, intrusive thoughts, and building long-term resilience.
Release schedule: New episodes are released weekly.
18. Dear Therapists with Lori Gottlieb and Guy Winch
About: In this podcast, psychotherapists and bestselling authors Lori Gottlieb and Guy Winch invite listeners into real-time therapy sessions, providing practical solutions to various emotional challenges.
Each episode offers actionable takeaways that listeners can apply to their own lives.
Release schedule: New episodes are released weekly during active seasons.
19. Mayim Bialik's Breakdown
About: Hosted by actress and neuroscientist Mayim Bialik, this podcast explores mental health topics with humor and scientific depth, featuring expert guests and personal stories.
The show aims to destigmatize mental health conversations and make neuroscience accessible to a broad audience.
Release schedule: New episodes are released weekly.
20. Self Care IRL
About: Hosted by Ty Alexander, this podcast focuses on practical self-care strategies for improving mental health, navigating relationships, and finding balance in everyday life.
The episodes combine personal anecdotes with actionable advice, encouraging listeners to prioritize their well-being.
Release schedule: New episodes are released weekly.
21. 10% Happier with Dan Harris
About: Journalist Dan Harris hosts this podcast, which delves into mindfulness and meditation as tools for improving mental health and increasing happiness.
It features interviews with meditation teachers, scientists, and thought leaders who offer tips for cultivating mindfulness.
Release schedule: New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
Looking for more sonic recommendations? Check out our list of the best podcasts to tune into in 2025.
