Top 5 Podcasts Every Startup Founder Should Tune Into
When navigating the unpredictable world of startups, the right advice can make all the difference.
Podcasts offer a wealth of knowledge, delivered by experienced founders, investors, and thought leaders.
But with so much content out there, where should you start?
Here are five exceptional podcasts designed to equip startup founders—especially those in the North of England—with the tools, insights, and strategies they need to succeed.
1. The Start & Scale Podcast
Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts
The Start & Scale Podcast is the ultimate destination for tech enthusiasts and aspiring entrepreneurs eager to learn from the stories of others in the start-up ecosystem. Hosted by Jack Brandwood, this podcast offers a unique blend of storytelling and actionable insights as it explores the experiences, challenges, and innovations of founders, investors, and industry pioneers.
From candid conversations about scaling teams to learning how to overcome entrepreneurial setbacks, The Start & Scale Podcast is a knowledge-sharing platform for those who want to turn ideas into thriving businesses.
Key Topics: Founder journeys, overcoming challenges, innovation, and scaling strategies
Best For: Early-stage founders, tech entrepreneurs, and aspiring start-up leaders
2. The Twenty Minute VC (20VC)
The Twenty Minute VC (20VC), hosted by Harry Stebbings, offers concise interviews with the world's leading venture capitalists and founders. Each episode provides insights into startup funding, investment strategies, and the journeys of prominent entrepreneurs. Notable guests include Sequoia's Doug Leone, Benchmark's Bill Gurley, Spotify's Daniel Ek, LinkedIn's Reid Hoffman, and Snowflake's Frank Slootman
Key Topics: Venture capital trends, startup funding strategies, entrepreneurial journeys, and investment insights
Best For: Aspiring entrepreneurs, startup founders, investors, and anyone interested in the dynamics of venture capital and startup ecosystems
3. How I Built This with Guy Raz
Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts
This globally acclaimed podcast explores the stories behind some of the world’s most recognisable brands. Host Guy Raz interviews founders who explore how to navigate challenges of all kinds and reveal deep, intimate moments of doubt and failure and insights on the eventual success that shaped their businesses.
Listeners gain a deep appreciation for the resilience and creativity needed to grow a company, making this podcast both inspiring and informative.
Key Topics: Founder journeys, overcoming adversity, brand building, and scaling challenges
Best For: Founders at any stage, but particularly inspiring for early-stage startups
4. Startup Therapy by Startups.com
Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts
This podcast offers a refreshingly honest, “No BS” take on the emotional and practical realities of building a startup. Hosted by Wil Schroter and Ryan Rutan, it addresses the mental toll, decision-making struggles, and the ups and downs founders face.
The candid discussions feel like a supportive guide for anyone dealing with the daily pressures of running a business.
Key Topics: Founder mental health, decision-making, and avoiding burnout
Best For: Founders at all stages, particularly those in challenging periods of growth
5. The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett
Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts
Hosted by entrepreneur and Dragons’ Den star Steven Bartlett, The Diary of a CEO dives into raw and honest conversations with some of the world’s most successful leaders, entrepreneurs, and creatives. Steven explores their journeys, challenges, and the mindset needed to overcome obstacles in the world of business and beyond.
While not exclusively focused on startups, this podcast offers a wealth of insight into leadership, resilience, and personal growth, making it a must-listen for founders and ambitious professionals.
Key Topics: Leadership, resilience, scaling businesses, and personal development
Best For: Founders, aspiring entrepreneurs, and seasoned business leaders seeking inspiration and insight
By tuning into these podcasts, you can gain the knowledge, inspiration, and confidence needed to build and scale your businesses. Whether you’re at the idea stage or scaling your team, these podcasts are a valuable resource to help navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship.
- Jack Brandwood
Co-Founder and Director
@ Tact
