Stay Ahead of the Curve: 8 Must-Listen HR Podcasts for 2024

But how? Who has the time to juggle work, study, and home life? Thank whoever it was who invented the podcast. Now you can learn and be entertained wherever you are. We like to listen on our commutes, but on walks, in the car, cooking dinner, and even in the bath are now all great times to broaden our horizons!

That being said, here are the top 8 must-listen HR podcasts for 2024:

CIPD Podcast

Any HR podcast list has to start with the CIPD podcast. The professional body for HR is naturally a valuable resource for HR professionals. Launched in 2010, it covers a wide range of HR topics, from new trends to core issues like talent acquisition and diversity. Hosted by a revolving door of experts, the podcast offers practical insights for HR professionals of all levels, helping them stay informed and improve their skills. With nearly 200 episodes, it's a one-stop shop for HR knowledge. If you only have time for one podcast, start with this one.

People Managing People

Aiming to build a thriving organisation? The People Managing People podcast equips you with the tools for success. Hosted by David Rice and Becca Banyard, the show features industry leaders sharing practical guidance on recruiting, retaining, and managing your workforce. Each episode condenses valuable insights into a digestible 30-minute format, making it perfect for those with hectic schedules. Whether you're seeking to improve employee engagement or refine your recruitment strategies, People Managing People offers actionable tips with real-life examples that you’re sure to be able to bring your organisation.

HR Leaders Podcast

Leadership isn’t just for CEOs. HR Leaders Podcast, hosted by Chris Rainey, dismantles that notion by offering insights for anyone aspiring to lead or refine their leadership skills. Each episode features a new guest, like Chief People Officers from industry giants such as Ubisoft and Paramount. These experts delve into critical topics like people analytics, mental health, diversity, and fostering an open culture, all in a relaxed and engaging conversation. New episodes drop frequently, ensuring a steady stream of valuable lessons for anyone interested in leadership or the ever-evolving landscape of work. You’ll be working through your backlog for quite some time!

Transform Your Workplace

Brandon Laws, VP of Marketing & Product at Xenium HR, hosts informal discussions with industry leaders on HR, communication, leadership, AI, and just about any topic you can imagine. Each episode tackles a new topic, offering fresh ideas for building a thriving organisation, and Brandon keeps the conversation lively and engaging. Whether you're an HR newbie, a seasoned manager, or simply enjoy insightful discussions, this podcast equips you with the tools to transform your work environment.

We're Only Human

What’s the most important element of HR? The human element, of course, and that’s what this podcast focuses on. Host Ben Eubanks, Principal Analyst at Lighthouse Research & Advisory, dives into the crucial balance between people and technology in today's whirlwind workplace.  He champions HR as a dynamic force,  harnessing technology to cater to diverse workforces and fuel growth. It explores hot topics like talent acquisition, performance management, and employee engagement, with real-world case studies to bolster his arguments. This podcast equips you to navigate the human side of the modern workplace.

DriveThruHR

If you’re after something on the lighter side, this is the HR podcast for you. DriveThruHR serves up HR insights with a side of humour in fast-paced episodes. Though it only releases around once a fortnight, you’ll be looking forward to your next helping of irreverence, which tackles a wide range of HR topics. Whether it’s diving into recruiting trends or dissecting leadership styles, you'll be entertained and informed — even if the hosts spend half an episode on casual banter. Perfect for busy HR professionals at all levels, DriveThruHR is your lunchtime dose of HR knowledge with a smile.

Leading the Future of Work

Jacob Morgan has quite the backstory. Arriving in America from Georgia as a child with nothing, without knowing a word of English, he is now one of the world’s leading authorities on leadership, the future of work, and employee experience and is a TED speaker. In his thought-provoking podcast, Jacob convenes a brain trust of CEOs, business leaders, and innovative thinkers for lively discussions that are sure to get your brain ticking. This show is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolving workplace. 

HR Coffee Time

Finishing off the list with a UK-centric podcast (and who doesn’t love coffee?), HR Coffee Time is your go-to podcast for brewing a successful HR career. Hosted by Fay Wallis, a former HR professional turned life coach, each episode serves up practical tips and insightful advice to help you navigate the exciting yet demanding world of HR. It’s split between solo insights and guides from Fay and valuable conversations with industry experts and coaches that are all focused on keeping you energised and preventing burnout. You’ll want to grab your favourite mug and tune in for a breezy listen and career-boosting chat.

As we’ve seen, there is a whole world of engaging information from incredible thought leaders out there just waiting to be listened to. By prioritising continuous learning, such as by listening to podcasts, HR professionals can ensure they possess the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the ever-changing HR landscape, contribute strategically to organisational success, and, ultimately, thrive in their careers.