Dear readers, we need to talk about meditation podcasts for a minute. The medium is ripe for delivery, and if you haven’t noticed, we’ve been on a bit of a personal development kick here at DiscoverPods. Call it the New Year Resolution effect, call it what you like, but we can be better, we will be better. At least I’m going to try. I’ve got the motivation podcasts to start with.

And meditation podcasts are going to play an enormous role in our collective betterment in 2023. That’s a fact.

What is a meditation podcast?

A meditation podcast is a form of audio content designed to help listeners learn more about the practice of meditation, receive support from experts, and make meditation easier.

These podcasts typically feature guided meditations, inspirational quotes, and expert interviews on topics like yoga, health, stress, sleep, and more. Many meditation podcasts are specifically geared toward people who already meditate and can provide deeper insights and guidance.

For those just starting out, shorter podcasts with simple guided meditations are a great way to learn how to find stillness and sustain a practice.

Benefits of listening to meditation podcasts

Meditation Podcasts have the ability to change the tranquility of the mind.
The benefits of mindfulness meditation are varied and astounding.

1. Improved Concentration

Listening to meditation podcasts can improve concentration by reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Meditation can also decrease blood pressure and reduce strain on the heart, resulting in improved physical and mental health.

Guided meditations can help to calm the mind and relax the body, allowing one to focus more clearly and sharply. Additionally, regular practice of meditation can increase self-awareness, lengthen attention span, and reduce stress, all of which are beneficial for concentration.

2. Reduced Stress Levels

Listening to meditation podcasts helps reduce stress levels by activating the body’s stress response and calming the nervous system. This can have positive physical and mental impacts, including reducing anxiety and depression, increasing self-awareness and attention span, and lowering blood pressure to help the heart.

Research suggests that regular meditation and mindfulness practice is just as effective as a gold-standard antidepressant for the treatment of anxiety, and it comes with fewer side effects.

3. Improved Mood

Have you been in a crappy mood lately and don’t know why? I certainly have.

Listening to meditation podcasts can improve mood by reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression and by promoting emotional health. Research suggests that meditation can have positive impacts on physical and mental wellbeing, including reducing anxiety, depression, and stress, as well as decreasing blood pressure and reducing strain on the heart.

This occurs because meditation is associated with nervous system arousal and the activation of the stress response. Podcasts can work particularly well for meditation, as they can be listened to on a lunch break, first thing in the morning, or before bed at night.

4. Increased Mindfulness

Listening to meditation podcasts can increase mindfulness by allowing listeners to engage with their practice of mindfulness more deeply. These podcasts provide a way for listeners to connect with their inner self, explore their feelings, and gain a greater understanding of their thoughts.

Through guided meditations and lyrical lessons, listeners can develop greater self-awareness, reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve their attention span.

Listening to meditation podcasts also can help to reduce strain on the heart and lower blood pressure, as it is associated with a decrease in nervous system arousal and the activation of the stress response.

5. Improved Focus and Attention

Listening to meditation podcasts can improve focus and attention by helping to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve moods, and increase self-awareness. Through guided meditations and simple, snappy episodes, meditation podcasts can help to decrease stress levels, lower blood pressure, and strengthen the nervous system to reduce strain on the heart.

Meditation podcasts can help to increase focus when you need it most.

Additionally, mindfulness practice can help to sharpen mental focus and lead to a more relaxed and contented life, allowing us to better attend to our world’s most pressing issues.

6. Enhanced Self-Awareness

Listening to meditation podcasts can help enhance self-awareness by providing guidance in techniques such as mindfulness, emotional intelligence, self-esteem, and positive psychology. Through podcasts, listeners are encouraged to focus on their inner self and to practice self-care.

These techniques help to create space for relief when dealing with stress, trauma, and burnout. In addition, exploring topics such as gratitude, happiness, relationships, and resilience can provide insight into how to live a more meaningful life.

By engaging in these practices, individuals can become more mindful of their thoughts and emotions and have a heightened sense of self-awareness.

7. Increased Emotional Well-Being

Listening to meditation podcasts can have a significant impact on emotional well-being. By exploring topics such as gratitude, resilience, self-awareness, and mindfulness, listeners are able to gain a better understanding of their emotions, allowing them to manage stress and anxiety more effectively.

Podcasts such as Mindfulness Mode and The Science of Happiness, hosted by Bruce Langford and Jen Fisher, respectively, provide valuable insights into positive psychology that can help increase calm, focus, and overall happiness.

Furthermore, research suggests that meditation can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as lower blood pressure and reduce strain on the heart. Ultimately, podcasts provide a convenient and accessible way to help individuals learn the skills necessary to enhance their emotional well-being.

8. Improved Sleep Quality

In today’s fast paced world, we tend to neglect sleep hygiene.

Listening to meditation podcasts can improve sleep quality in a variety of ways. Meditation helps to reduce stress and anxiety, which can often be the cause of poor sleep.

Guided meditations can help the listener to relax their body and mind and create a sense of calmness and peace, allowing them to drift off to sleep more easily. Additionally, some meditation podcasts feature bedtime stories, which can be calming and help to lull the listener into a peaceful sleep.

Furthermore, podcasts that feature sleep music can also be beneficial in aiding relaxation and providing a soothing backdrop to drift off to sleep.

9. Decreased Anxiety

This one is huge if you haven’t picked up on it. The best meditation guides can, potentially, decrease anxiety over time. We live in stressful times folks.

Listening to meditation podcasts can help decrease anxiety by providing guidance, relaxation, and self-awareness. Research suggests that meditation and everyday mindfulness can have positive physical and mental impacts, reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress.

Studies have shown mindfulness to reduce anxiety.

Additionally, meditation has been linked to decreasing blood pressure, reducing strain on the heart, and promoting emotional health. As we referenced above. Anxiety, blood pressure, medication, meditation… it’s all tied together.

Podcasts can be particularly helpful in providing guided meditations and practices in short, manageable intervals that can be used during a lunch break, first thing in the morning, or before bed.

10. Increased Happiness

Listening to meditation podcasts can be an effective way to increase happiness by providing strategies for reducing stress, anxiety, and negative thinking. It can also help develop emotional intelligence, gratitude, resilience, and self-awareness.

Through guided meditations and mindfulness practices, listeners can learn how to create rituals that feed their well-being and prioritize their happiness.

Podcasts like Ten Percent Happier by Dan Harris provide helpful summaries of episodes and offer guidance on developing a calmer, more meaningful life that is based on the science of compassion, gratitude, and awe. In short, meditation podcasts can be a valuable tool for increasing happiness by connecting us to our inner strength and helping us to be more mindful and aware of our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

What to consider when choosing the right podcast for you?

1. Meditation Podcast: Target audience

When choosing the right meditation podcast for your target audience, there are several factors to consider.

First, you should think about the format of the podcast. There are guided meditations, interviews with experts, explanations of the science behind meditation, and more.

Secondly, consider the topics covered by the podcast. Some may focus on relaxation, anxiety, sleep, motivation, and other wellness-related topics. Finally, the reviews should be taken into account to ensure a high-quality podcast.

By comparing and contrasting the different formats, topics, and reviews, you can find the perfect meditation podcast to resonate with your target audience. This will ensure they have access to helpful tips and guidance to start and sustain their practice.

2. Meditation Podcast: Format

When choosing a meditation podcast format, there are several factors to consider.

First, you should think about what type of format you prefer – do you want a guided meditation, a discussion on the science behind meditation, interviews with experts, or something else?

Second, you should think about the subject matter – do you want a podcast that focuses on a specific topic (such as parenting, creativity, or sleep), or one that covers a broad range of topics?

Lastly, it is important to consider the reviews of any podcast you are considering – make sure you read what others have to say about the podcast and its content before you decide. With these factors in mind, you can choose a meditation podcast format that resonates with your target audience and helps you reach your goals.

3. Meditation Podcast: Content

When evaluating the content of a meditation podcast, it is important to consider the type of format, different topics discussed, and the guest speakers.

Different types of formats to consider include guided meditations, interviews with experts, explanations of the science behind meditation, and more. The topics discussed should vary, from parenting to creative endeavors to gaining more sleep. It is also important to consider reviews or feedback from other listeners about the podcast.

Finally, it is beneficial to look for podcasts with inspirational quotes, guided meditations, and expert interviews on topics such as yoga, health, stress, and sleep. By considering these criteria when evaluating the content of a meditation podcast, you will be able to make an informed decision on which podcast is the best fit for you.

4. Meditation Podcast: Guided meditations

Meditation podcasts offer a variety of guided meditations that can be tailored to different needs and skill levels. The types of guided meditations found in these podcasts include:

1. Daily Meditations: These guided meditations, such as those featured in the Daily Meditation Podcast, focus on different styles and techniques to help manage stress, improve sleep, gain focus, and find clarity.

2. Sleep Meditations: These meditations, such as those featured in the Happy Mind Guided Meditations podcast, are designed to help listeners relax and get the restful sleep they need.

3. Mindfulness Meditations: These meditations, such as those featured in the Meditation Minis Podcast, are short and focused on helping listeners become more mindful and present.

4. Transformative Meditations: These meditations, such as those featured in the Guided Meditation Podcast, are designed to help listeners create a space for peace, healing, and transformation.

5. Meditation Podcast: Meditation technique

When choosing a meditation podcast based on its meditation technique, it’s important to consider the type of meditation it offers. Guided meditation podcasts are led by meditation and mindfulness experts and utilize affirmations, guided meditations, yoga, meditating together, and breathing techniques to help manage stress and anxiety.

For those new to meditation, podcasts offer a solid foundation to learn the ins and outs of how to properly practice and incorporate it into their daily routine. Other podcasts offer more specific types of meditation, such as interviews, quick inspiration, and self-compassion.

Whatever you choose, make sure it resonates with your goals and interests. Then, when it comes to technique, consider how long you have to spare and what time of day you prefer to practice meditation.

All of these factors will help you find a podcast that works best for you and your needs.

6. Meditation Podcast: Goals and strategies

When choosing a meditation podcast, it is important to consider your goals and the strategies needed to achieve them. For instance, if your goal is to learn the basics of meditation, podcasts like The Daily Meditation Podcast offer useful tips and guidance to help you become more familiar with the practice.

If you’re looking to reduce stress, anxiety, or depression, then programs such as The Meditation School Podcast and Raphael Reiter Podcaster provide meditative techniques, mindfulness exercises, and contemplation to help you relax and find inner peace.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for something more specific, like improving sleep or gaining focus, there are several podcasts that focus on these topics. For instance, Mary Meckley’s The Daily Meditation Podcast does daily guided meditations which focus on specific styles and techniques for managing stress, sleeping better, and finding clarity.

Additionally, there are podcasts that provide inspirational quotes, expert interviews, and other related topics to help you further your journey.

No matter what your goals, there is a meditation podcast out there that can help. Be sure to research each podcast carefully and find one that best fits with your personal needs and goals. Additionally, try different podcasts to find which ones work best for you and be willing to experiment until you find the right fit.

8. Meditation Podcast: Stress management

What are the features of a meditation podcast that help with stress management? [Expanded list and examples]

Meditation podcasts offer a variety of features that can help with stress management. These features can include guided meditations, affirmations, expert interviews, inspirational quotes, and breathing techniques.

For example, the Daily Meditation Podcast offers daily guided meditations that focus on different styles and techniques to help manage stress, sleep better, gain focus, and find clarity. The Untangle podcast offers experts and everyday people sharing their stories about how practicing mindfulness has changed their lives for the better.

The Meditation Minis podcast provides guided meditations that are typically around 10 minutes long to help soothe stress, overcome negative thinking, boost confidence, and improve overall well-being. Finally, the Meditation Oasis podcast offers longer episodes (over 50 minutes) that explore everyday stressors, such as anxiety and fear, and provide listeners with tools to help manage these stressors.

9. Meditation Podcast: Health benefits

What health benefits are offered by the meditation podcast genre? Meditation podcasts can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve moods and attitudes, increase clarity and concentration, and even help to achieve a better sleep routine, a calm state, and heightened awareness of oneself and one’s surroundings.

Additionally, these podcasts can offer support from experts on topics related to yoga, health, stress, sleep, and more, allowing those who are new to meditation to learn the basics and helping more advanced meditators to work on specific health and wellness goals.

10. Meditation Podcast: Mindfulness practice

Meditation podcasts are an ideal tool for practicing mindfulness because they provide listeners with guidance, structure, and topics to focus on. Many meditation podcasts provide short, guided meditations that are perfect for those just starting out with a mindfulness practice.

Hosts often discuss different topics related to mindfulness, making it easier for listeners to apply the principles to everyday life. Additionally, some podcasts provide longer meditations and relaxing soundscapes, which can help listeners reach a deeper level of relaxation.

Finally, podcasts that focus on specific pieces of art or cultural talks can be beneficial for those wanting to explore mindfulness in a creative manner. All of these features make meditation podcasts suitable for mindfulness practice.

11. Meditation Podcast: Relaxation exercises

What relaxation exercises are available in meditation podcasts? Meditation podcasts can provide a range of relaxation exercises, including guided meditations, affirmations, yoga, breathing techniques, and more.

Depending on the podcast, exercises can range from five to 20 minutes in length, and cover topics such as stress reduction, negative thought elimination, self-confidence building, improved sleep, and mental focus. Popular exercises include the Meditation Minis podcast, the Meditation RX app, and the Effortless Meditation podcast.

All of these podcasts are designed to help you relax and reach a state of zen.

12. Meditation Podcast: Sleep benefits

Listening to a meditation podcast can be an effective way to help improve sleep. It has been proven to reduce anxiety, insomnia, and self-esteem issues, while providing soothing sleep meditations, bedtime stories, and relaxation techniques.

The podcasts offer a variety of options, including guided meditations, nap meditations, stories, music, and moments, all designed to help the listener relax and fall asleep faster.

Additionally, podcasts can help to reduce stress and racing thoughts by providing a calming and distracting soundscape, allowing the mind to slow down and enter a more peaceful state before bed.

13. Meditation Podcast: Visualization

When evaluating a meditation podcast’s visualization features, it is important to consider the type of visualizations provided, how often they are used, and the overall meditation goal.

For example, loving-kindness meditation (or meta) utilizes affirmations and visualizations to help practitioners reconnect with themselves, while other Brahma Viharas such as compassion and equanimity rely on visualizations of breathing techniques and grounding techniques.

Additionally, some meditation podcasts use visualizations to help practitioners move towards a deeper state of calmness, connection, and purpose, while others are designed to help with physical wellbeing and managing stress or anxiety. It is important to consider what type of visualization techniques are best suited to your needs and which will benefit you the most, as well as to consider the overall goal of the podcast.

14. Meditation Podcast: Affirmations

Affirmations are positive statements that are used to help you focus on a goal or desired outcome in order to bring it into reality. When it comes to meditation, affirmations are a helpful tool to help you stay focused and present, while also helping to set a positive and productive mindset. Affirmations can also help to create a positive feedback loop by enabling you to reflect on the progress that you have made. As such, affirmations are an important factor to consider when choosing a meditation podcast.

For instance, some meditation podcasts incorporate affirmations into the practice, helping to create an environment that is conducive to the desired goal. Additionally, affirmations can help to set the tone for the meditative practice, providing a sense of direction and assurance in the journey.

Affirmations also help to bring about a sense of acceptance, allowing you to be more open and receptive to new ideas and perspectives. Ultimately, affirmations are a powerful tool that can help to enhance the meditation experience, making it easier to achieve desired results.

15. Meditation Podcast: Self-compassion

Self-compassion is the practice of treating oneself with kindness, understanding, and warmth. It is an essential part of meditation and self-care, as it helps us to be more mindful of our thoughts and feelings and to practice acceptance of ourselves and our experiences.

Self-compassion is important because it helps us to maintain a positive mindset, to be more forgiving of ourselves and our mistakes, and to practice self-love. It helps to build resilience and gives us the strength to cope with difficult emotions and stressful situations. This is why self-compassion and mindfulness are such good companions in meditation podcasts.

By listening to self-compassion and mindfulness-based guided meditations, we can learn to be kinder to ourselves, to cultivate more self-care and acceptance, and to become more mindful of our thoughts and feelings. This in turn can help us to become more grounded and resilient in our everyday lives.

16. Meditation Podcast: Meaning and purpose

When evaluating a meditation podcast for meaning and purpose, it’s important to consider the format, topics discussed, and reviews. Different meditation podcasts offer different formats, such as guided meditations, interviews with experts, and explanations of the science behind meditation.

Additionally, the topics covered by the podcast should be considered. Some podcasts focus on helping busy people start and maintain their meditation practices while others explore the big questions of existence.

And then, lastly, reviews can provide insight into whether or not a podcast is worth the listen. A podcast with great reviews is more likely to provide meaningful and purposeful content.

17. Meditation Podcast: Body and emotions

The features of a meditation podcast that consider the body and emotions include short guided meditations, focusing on an emotion each week, tips and strategies to reduce stress and anxiety, and ways to improve focus and balance emotions.

Other features may include deep dives into certain emotions, ways to practice gratitude, contemplations of big questions of existence, mindfulness exercises and courses, and meditations for kids.

Additionally, podcasts may include longer episodes (over 50 minutes) that focus on changing behavior and developing better habits to protect from life’s stressors and energy drains.

18. Meditation Podcast: Creative practices

Meditation podcasts typically feature creative practices such as guided meditations, affirmations, yoga, breathing techniques, and meditating together. These creative practices can help manage stress and anxiety, improve physical wellbeing, and deepen one’s meditation practice. Other elements featured in meditation podcasts include interviews, speakers, and information on topics related to meditation and mindfulness.

19. Meditation Podcast: Mental health

When choosing a meditation podcast for mental health, it is important to consider the following: the podcast’s focus, the length of the meditations, the level of difficulty, the type of content presented, whether it is a guided or unguided meditation, the presenter’s experience and qualifications, the quality of the audio, and the ability to listen on various platforms.

Additionally, it is important to research the podcast’s sources to ensure that the content is reliable and trustworthy. With so many options available, it can be helpful to listen to a few different podcasts to find one that you enjoy.

20. Meditation Podcast: Social interaction

When evaluating a meditation podcast’s social interaction, it is important to consider the approach of the podcast, the topics discussed, and the availability of resources. For example, the US Christian meditation podcast promotes spiritual growth and transformation, while the Meditation Minis podcast focuses on calming stress and improving overall wellbeing.

It is also important to consider the format in which the podcast is presented, such as its length and frequency, as well as the platform it is available on. The US Christian meditation podcast has around 935 subscribers, with 2 episodes per week, and is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

On the other hand, the Meditation Minis podcast is shorter in length, with 10 minutes being the average time for each episode, and it is only available via Apple Podcasts. Ultimately, it is important to consider the podcast’s social interaction to ensure it is the right fit for you and your desired practice.

21. Meditation Podcast: Family and friends

When choosing a meditation podcast for family and friends, there are a few things to consider. First, make sure it is accessible to both beginners and seasoned practitioners. Look for podcasts that provide clear guidance, along with tips and tricks for getting the most out of a meditation practice.

Additionally, look for podcasts that offer a variety of topics, such as yoga, health, stress, sleep, and more. Finally, consider podcasts that offer quick and simple structures and short meditations, so that everyone in the family can easily find the time to fit meditation into their day.

The 23 best meditation podcasts available today

1. Tara Brach Meditation Podcast

Features of Tara Brach’s meditation podcast include:

  • Guided meditation blending ancient practice and modern psychology
  • Buddhist dharma talks featuring deep, relevant wisdom
  • Ideal for the spiritual explorer looking for guidance from an experienced mentor
  • PhD in Clinical Psychology with years of meditation practice
  • Self-compassion to relieve emotional suffering
  • Widely adored around the globe
  • Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, Stitcher, and TaraBrach.com
  • Highly rated 4.8 stars on Apple Podcasts

Tara Brach’s podcast is one of the best meditation podcasts available today because she takes a unique approach to her podcast, blending Western psychology and Eastern spiritual practices. Her soothing voice guides listeners through an integrated meditation, melding modern psychology and ancient practice. Brach has a PhD in clinical psychology and years of meditation experience, making her an experienced mentor for the spiritual explorer.

Her podcast topics range from the heart to humility, giving listeners the opportunity to learn about self-compassion and relieve emotional suffering.

Additionally, Brach makes her podcasts available on popular streaming services, making it accessible to a wide audience. Overall, Tara Brach’s podcast offers an engaging and powerful meditation experience.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

2. The Mindful Minute

The Mindful Minute is a popular meditation podcast that is designed to help busy people start and maintain a successful meditation practice. Hosted by experienced instructor Meryl Arnett, each episode consists of a short and simple guided meditation.

As a result, it is the perfect podcast for beginners who are still developing their concentration time. Additionally, Arnett drops new episodes each week focusing on how to live a life that is more mindful, easier and happier.

The Mindful Minute is popular because it provides a calming and accessible way to practice meditation. Arnett’s straightforward approach and simple instructions make the podcast approachable for all experience levels. Furthermore, its short duration makes it easy to fit into busy schedules and its wide availability across different platforms makes it easily accessible.

Overall, The Mindful Minute is a great resource for anyone looking to start a meditation practice or refresh their existing one. With its helpful guidance and approachable atmosphere, it is sure to help many people begin and sustain their meditation practice.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

3. The Daily Meditation Podcast

The Daily Meditation Podcast is a great meditation podcast to listen to because it offers a variety of topics, such as letting go, mental health, and stress in our everyday lives, which makes the meditations relevant and helpful.

Mary Meckley, the host, is a meditation teacher who guides listeners through daily meditations in under ten minutes, making it easily accessible to fit into a busy schedule. Additionally, this podcast provides inspiration and motivation using research-proven strategies to help listeners live a happier life.

All of these features make The Daily Meditation Podcast a great podcast to listen to for those looking to improve their mindfulness.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

4. Mindfulness in 8 Weeks: 20 Minutes a Day Program

The 20 Minutes a Day Program for mindfulness is a concise mindfulness program hosted by Michael Chaskalson. It spans eight weeks, with two separate streams. Stream One is the 40 Minutes a Day Program and Stream Two is the 20 Minutes a Day Program.

Each episode focuses on a different exercise, and aims to make the principles of Buddhism and mindfulness accessible to all of the listeners.

The episodes are approximately 30 minutes long and include a short meditation. This podcast is accompanied by a book of the same title, and can be purchased from Amazon.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

5. Ten Percent Happier

Ten Percent Happier is a great place to start if you’re new to meditation, because it’s hosted by Dan Harris, an ABC news anchor who used to be a skeptic. He talks about how he used to think meditation was for people who were “too hippie-dippy,” but how it has changed his life for the better.

Dan’s podcast is also good for skeptics because he doesn’t try to convince you that you need to believe anything in order to meditate. He just talks about what it’s like for him and what he’s learned from his experiences with meditation.

There’s also a 5 minute summary edition of the Ten Percent Happier pod.

This podcast is something we’ve talked about several times in the past because we love it so much.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

6. Exploring Awareness

Exploring Awareness is a popular meditation podcast hosted by Lisa Barry and Frank Anderson that seeks to explore ways to approach and deal with life through mindful practices. Through lively discussions, the podcast helps to provide another perspective on life, allowing the listener to authentically experience life without feeling the weight of overwhelming stress.

The podcast seeks to foster an atmosphere of peace, love, and generosity — things that can be hard to come by in everyday life. It also includes self-guided retreats for rest and restoration, stories that spark wonder, and news about mindfulness courses designed inclusively with autism communities.

Ultimately, Exploring Awareness is popular because it gives listeners the opportunity to take a break from reality and find peace and joy in the most unlikely of places.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

7. The Meditation Podcast

The Meditation Podcast is a popular podcast that provides guided meditations, binaural beats, mindfulness techniques, and interviews with experts. It is aimed at helping listeners to recenter and reconnect with their authentic selves.

The intent of these meditations is to reduce stress, boost confidence, and help listeners improve their overall well-being. With guided meditations of about 10 minutes long, this podcast is great for busy people who don’t have a lot of time to meditate.

It is also accessible to those who are new to meditation, as the podcasts provide tools and strategies to guide them through the process. The podcast also provides meditations for those who are more experienced in the practice, including meditations for creatives and discussions on current events.

Ultimately, The Meditation Podcast helps listeners to relax, refocus, and be more mindful in their everyday lives.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

8. I Should Be Meditating

What makes I Should Be Meditating a good meditation podcast?

I Should Be Meditating is the perfect podcast for those looking for an approachable way to incorporate meditation into their life. Host Alan Klima speaks openly about his own struggles to maintain a consistent practice, which can be very relatable and validating to listeners.

With decades of experience behind him, Klima imparts his knowledge and offers guided meditations to help listeners find what works best for them.

Additionally, his laid-back teaching style makes it easy to slow down and focus on the present. If you’re looking for a way to practice meditation more regularly, I Should Be Meditating should be your go-to podcast.

Listen on Podbean

9. Audio Dharma

Audio Dharma is a Buddhism-heavy podcast that illuminates aspects of classic Buddha teachings. Led by various speakers from the Insight Meditation Center in Redwood City, California, the podcast features Gil Fronsdal, a Buddhist practitioner with a Ph.D. in Buddhist Studies from Stanford.

Episodes range from 12 to 30 minutes and discuss the Hinduism law of inherent and eternal law of reality that governs cosmic law.

The podcast is a great meditation resource for beginners and experienced practitioners alike. It provides pragmatic guidance through retellings of the lives of the Buddha and his disciples, as well as wisdom and heart practices.

Furthermore, it provides an insightful look at the Buddhist teachings and philosophy. The shorter episodes make it accessible and easy to incorporate into a person’s daily routine. All of these features make Audio Dharma a great meditation podcast.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

10. The Astral Hustle

The Astral Hustle, hosted by Cory Allen, is a popular meditation podcast that provides advice and guidance to listeners who are looking to connect with their Higher Self and manifest love within themselves.

By answering listener’s questions, the podcast uncovers the limitations of ego identity and encourages us to turn inward and look for deeper self-awareness and healing. Through guided meditations, sound healing, and mindful exercises, the podcast encourages us to find our true potential and reclaim the joy and love that is within us all.

The Astral Hustle is a unique podcast that provides listeners with a unique insight into the power of meditation and how it can be used to unlock our innermost being. With its blend of spiritual exploration and self-reflection, the podcast is a great resource for anyone looking to tap into their innermost power and find peace and clarity.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

11. The OneMind Meditation Podcast

The OneMind Meditation Podcast is one of the best meditation podcasts available today due to its accessible and engaging format. Host Morgan Dix interviews meditation teachers and everyday practitioners, making the podcast relatable for all.

Additionally, episodes offer equal parts guided meditations and expert interviews, making it suitable for both novice and experienced listeners.

With its 4.9 star rating on Apple Podcasts and its availability on MindfulnessPlus.org, the OneMind Meditation Podcast is a great resource for anyone looking to make mindfulness and meditation a part of their lifestyle.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

12. On Being

The On Being meditation podcast focuses on exploring the human experience through topics such as spiritual inquiry, science, social healing, and the arts.

Host Krista Tippett interviews prominent poets, philosophers, and spiritual and social leaders about their passions. Each episode dives deep into a human topic and asks what it means to us as a society, with guests talking about their own meditation, contemplation, and mindfulness practices.

Moreover, the podcast features big, world-altering ideas like those of a Black queer Buddhist teacher who espouses a socially radical approach to Buddhist practices.

The podcast is available on Spotify, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, and OnBeing.org, and has won the prestigious Peabody Award.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

13. Rethinking With Adam Grant

The podcast Rethinking With Adam Grant features interviews with high-powered mindful leaders, such as Satya Nadella, exploring topics related to remote work, well-being as key to productivity, refraining from weekend emails, and how managers can show deep care for employees.

The podcast also discusses personal and systemic shifts needed in order to truly attend to what is described as the “unprecedented tripwires and trapdoors” we now face as a species.

Additional topics explored include why it matters that we read differently on a page versus on a screen, and the real productivity cost of believing our brains can multitask.

14. Speaking of Psychology

Far too many people suffer from mental illness in this country. But is that really hard to believe?

We live in chaotic times. And while anxiety surrounding the pandemic has waned somewhat, there are plenty of other daily stressors in our lives from the economy, various wars, famines, and general adulting that make life stressful. A quarter of our population struggles with anxiety alone.

Source: CDC.gov

Meditation can help with that.

Dr. Richard Davidson, in this episode, how the practice of mediation (a practice that dates back literally thousands of years) can help quiet our modern brains. While this episode is great, the entire podcast is worth listening to.

15. The Overwhelmed Brain

The Overwhelmed Brain meditation podcast is a popular choice for listeners looking to gain inner peace and clarity in their everyday lives. Hosted by Paul Colaianni, the podcast focuses on exploring everyday stressors such as anxiety, fear, and relationship problems.

By examining these issues, the podcast offers a range of tools to help listeners change their behavior, make better decisions, and adopt better habits. The episodes in the podcast tend to be on the longer side, more than 50 minutes, so make sure you have the time to listen carefully to gain the full benefit.

The ultimate goal of the podcast is to empower listeners to live a life that is protected from the things that can overwhelm them and sap their energy.

With guided meditations from the podcast, listeners can tune in, listen, and then use the techniques in their own lives. By helping listeners to process information and think clearly, the Overwhelmed Brain meditation podcast is an effective way to reduce stress.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

16. Mind Minis Podcast

The Mind Minis Podcast is one of the best meditation podcasts available today due to its high 4.8 star rating from more than 3,200 Apple Podcasts listeners and its ability to help reduce stress and anxiety, boost confidence, and remove negative thoughts in as little as 5 minutes.

Host Chel Hamilton is a hypnotherapist who leads listeners in quick guided meditations using a variety of techniques and topics. This is ideal for busy people or beginners who are just learning about meditation, as the episodes are only 5-12 minutes long and conveniently fit into any time of day. The goal is to provide a mindful break that is accessible and easy to follow.

Additionally, the podcast has been recognized as an award-winner and is available on multiple streaming services, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

All of these traits make the Mind Minis Podcast an excellent choice for helping listeners cultivate a healthier mindset.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

17. The Rubin Museum: Mindfulness Meditation Podcast

The Rubin Museum’s mindfulness meditation podcast is a weekly podcast hosted by the Rubin Museum of Art located in New York City.

It features prominent meditation teachers from the local area who provide talks and guided meditations centered around a specific piece of art from the museum’s collection. This unique concept of combining art and meditation is popular amongst meditation enthusiasts of all levels.

It allows the listener to gain insight and motivation from the discussion, while at the same time receiving a guided meditation experience. Additionally, the podcast has earned a 4.4 star rating on Apple Podcasts and is available across multiple streaming platforms.

This allows the listener to access the podcast and its teachings no matter where they are, creating an interactive experience that is convenient and engaging.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

18. The Daily Stoic

We’ve mentioned Ryan Holiday’s podcast, The Daily Stoic, before, but it’s so good that we want to talk about it again.

The Daily Stoic is great for people who are short on time, because most episodes are well under 10 minutes. It’s also a great way to start your day—combine it with journaling and meditation and you can start your day off right.

We love this podcast because it offers practical advice on how to live a more Stoic life—and it’s easy to listen to while you’re going about your daily routine.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

19. The Morning Ritual

As a podcast listener, I’ve always been a fan of the Morning Ritual Podcast. It’s great for when you’re on your way to work and need some inspiration for a great day ahead (and it’s short enough to be digestible over breakfast).

Lilly Balch hosts this little gem of a podcast. She walks the listener through a short meditation on the stressors of modern life. How to get out of our heads, stop over thinking, monitoring our breathwork and more are just some of the subjects covered.

There is also the occasional interview peppered in to give the show even more value. It’s one of the best meditation podcasts you can find in the stack.

20. Mindful in Minutes

Each week yoga instructor Kelly Smith guides listeners through a short mediation on all sorts of different topics that plague the modern mind. And that they are short and weekly is great because life goes by quickly and sometimes you can feel guilty for missing a daily mediation.

You see, when we’re stressed out or feeling anxious, our minds are racing and we can’t slow down. Meditation allows us to focus on our breath, which helps us get rid of those pesky negative thoughts so we can relax and be present in the moment. The best part? It only takes five minutes!

That’s why I love the Mindful in Minutes podcast: they’ve got all kinds of quick tips for how to meditate anywhere and anytime.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

21. Untangle

This show is all about showing the success of mindfulness. It’s sort of your mindfulness coach that keeps you going when your practice is starting to falter.

Sometimes our minds can seem like the proverbial gordian knot. We just don’t know what to do, we’re thinking too much and too quickly. It can seem an impossible task to quiet the mind, but the doctors (or as they say “experts” in a tongue and cheek manner), and regular people show us it isn’t.

So listen to this podcast when you feel like meditation isn’t possible for you. It is.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

22. Mindfulness Mode

Bruce Langford brings us this useful podcast. Mindfulness Mode is all about how the practice of mindfulness can better our lives.

He brings on experts in their fields, as well as self-taught experts, to discuss a wide variety of topics that center around bettering our existence. How downsizing our living space can make our lives easier. I mean, look at the tiny house movement.

Mastering one’s mindset, frugality, and bettering your sex life with mediation all make an appearance. It’s a great mediation podcast even if mediation isn’t always the topic at hand. Awareness is, and they are very close cousins.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

23. Mindfulness For Beginners

Mindfulness is the most popular, studied, and practiced form of meditation. But getting into the practice can be difficult. Most people think mediation means emptying one’s mind, and that’s just not the case.

That voice in your head is never going to shut up, it’s just a matter of the way we listen to it. Do we let it consume us, or do we let the thoughts pass like clouds? Mindfulness is the latter. Being aware, but not being consumed.

This podcast is aimed at beginners who are just picking up the basics and Shaun Donaghy does a great job walking us through mindfulness. Excellent mediation podcast.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

FAQ

What is the best meditation podcast?

When it comes to the best meditation podcasts, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. If you’re looking for a great overall meditation podcast, Natural Meditation is an excellent choice.

For busy people, Meditation Minis is perfect for squeezing in a few minutes of down time. If self-compassion is your goal, Tara Brach Podcast is a great option.

You really have to pick your modality. And, experiment. That’s the best way to find what works for you.

Skeptics may enjoy 10 Percent Happier, while beginners should try The Mindful Minute. Creatives might appreciate the Rubin Museum Mindfulness Meditation Podcast, and those looking for a personal connection should check out I Should Be Meditating.

On Being, Untangle, and Mindfulness are great podcasts for those who want to learn more about meditation, while Peace Out and Get Sleepy offer specialized content for kids and those winding down for the night.

For quick inspiration, Radio Headspace and Wake Me Up: Morning Meditation and Motivation are excellent options. Finally, Mindful Mama is an excellent resource for parents. With so many choices available, it’s easy to find the perfect meditation podcast for your needs.

What are The Best Mindful Podcasts?

That’s a subjective question since mindfulness is the most widely produced and widely studied form of meditation. From western perspectives like that of Dr. Herbert Benson’s The Relaxation Response, to that of the Dalai Lama himself, it’s kind of the same thing. So that’s such a broad question that several podcasts are going to touch on this.

They won’t compete for the bets mindfulness podcast in theory, since each is like a fingerprint, but you just have to find what works for you.

But do not fret dear reader, you will find what works for you.

There are a lot of ways to relax and calm your mind, but the best mindfulness podcasts will help you develop the habit such that you can help yourself in your practice.

Meditation can help reduce stress, anxiety, and even pain. There are many different types of meditation, so there’s sure to be a podcast that fits your needs.

What topics are covered in meditation podcasts?

Meditation podcasts cover a variety of topics. For example:

  • guided meditations
  • inspirational quotes
  • expert interviews on topics related to yoga, health, stress, sleep, relaxation, anxiety, sleep whispers, whispering, stress relief, sleep aid, relaxation, SW podcast, insomnia, autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR)
  • Tibetan Buddhism
  • science
  • imagination
  • Buddhism
  • secular, analytic meditation
  • mindfulness
  • death
  • relationships
  • depression
  • mind techniques
  • anxiety
  • fear
  • contemplation of nature
  • authenticity
  • breathwork
  • boundaries
  • joy
  • impermanence
  • rebirth
  • self help
  • Dalai Lama
  • self-acceptance
  • refuge
  • LGBTQ concerns
  • spiritual practice
  • loving-kindness meditation.

Are you out of breath? I am just reading that. But meditation is such a broad subject, it literally encompasses every aspect of human existence. If you invite it into your life.

How do meditation podcasts help induce relaxation?

Meditation podcasts can be a great way to induce relaxation by providing helpful tips and guidance for newcomers to meditation, as well as offering support from experts with experience guiding people through meditation.

They also help to make meditation easier by providing guided meditations, inspirational quotes, and interviews on topics related to yoga, health, stress, sleep, and more. Additionally, podcasts can provide useful information on how to properly practice breathing techniques or how to ground oneself in order to manage stress and anxiety.

Ultimately, meditation podcasts can be a great resource for those looking for a healthy dose of rest and relief.

Are there guided meditations available in meditation podcasts?

Yes, there are guided meditations available in meditation podcasts. These guided meditations are typically around 10 minutes long and can cover various topics such as reducing stress, improving confidence, and improving well-being.

The most popular meditation podcasts often offer guided meditations as well as conversations with experts and interviews with influential authors.

What type of meditation techniques are taught in meditation podcasts?

Meditation podcasts offer various types of meditation techniques for listeners to practice. Guided meditations are the most common type and involve a teacher or practitioner providing instructions to help the listener enter a meditative state.

Other types of media, such as music or photographs, can also be used as a form of mindfulness. Additionally, interviews, affirmations, yoga, breathing exercises, and group meditations may also be taught in meditation podcasts.

These techniques are designed to help listeners reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, increase clarity and concentration, and achieve better sleep.

Are there any meditation podcasts for beginners?

Yes, there are meditation podcasts for beginners. For example, Mindfulness for Beginners is hosted by Shaun Donaghy and is perfect for those just starting out in meditation.

The Mindfulness in Eight Weeks podcast is another great option, with two versions available – one that requires 40 minutes a day and one that requires 20 minutes a day – and provides an eight-week program to help get you started.

The Mindfulness Meditation Podcast with Danny Ford is another great option, with longer episodes that are best suited for those with more time to dedicate to meditation. Finally, The Rubin Museum: Mindfulness Meditation Podcast provides guided meditations focusing on a specific piece of art, making it perfect for anyone looking to connect with their creative side as they meditate.

Are there any mindfulness exercises available in meditation podcasts?

Yes, there are several mindfulness exercises available in meditation podcasts. Examples of these podcasts include Mindfulness for Beginners, Mindfulness in Eight Weeks, and Mindfulness Meditation Podcast. These podcasts provide guided meditations, exercises, and explore general topics around mindfulness. Additionally, some of these podcasts are accompanied by books, such as Mindfulness in Eight Weeks, which can be purchased from Amazon.

How often are new episodes of meditation podcasts released?

The Daily Meditation Podcast releases new episodes every day, while The Mindful Minute releases new episodes weekly. While I prefer the daily episodes for my routine, both podcasts are perfect for beginners, offering short and simple guided meditations.

The Mindfulness Meditation Podcast is released weekly and offers 30-40 minute episodes featuring an introductory discussion, recorded meditation practice, and featured well-known names and teachers in meditation.

Are there any meditation podcasts for children?

Are there any meditation podcasts for children? Yes, there are several podcasts specifically designed for children that offer guided meditations and short stories to help them relax and find calm. For example, the Peace Out podcast features short stories that guide kids through breathing and visualization exercises.

Another great option is the JOY Factor podcast, which offers varying topics and expert advice. Lastly, there is the Wake Me Up podcast which offers motivations, routines and short meditations. No matter what the child’s personal meditation goals are, there is sure to be something on these podcasts that can help.

Are there any meditation podcasts that focus on mental health?

Yes, there are several meditation podcasts that focus on mental health. For example, the Happy Mind Guided Meditations podcast offers a variety of meditations to help people feel more energetic, mentally sharp, mindful, and happy, while the Mindful in Minutes podcast is perfect for those struggling with anxiety, insomnia, or self-esteem.

There are multiple meditation podcasts that can help with mental health.

Other podcasts include Untangle, Tara Brach, The Anxiety Coaches, Mindfulness Mode, The Dark Place, The Anxiety Slayer, and Meditation Minis, which each offer unique approaches to helping people manage their mental health.

To Wrap Up Meditation Podcasts

2023 and beyond is going to be about taking a chaotic world and making it manageable. Nobody knows what stressors everyone may be dealing with, but meditation podcasts are a tool in everyone’s toolbox.

Put those earbuds in or headphones on and hit play on one of these fantastic podcasts.

If you add these podcasts to your normal rotation, it’d be hard not to find a benefit. If we’ve missed your favorite mediation podcast, let us know on twitter. I know… I know… Twitter. But we’ll figure it out.

Cheers to a productive 2023 and beyond. Namaste.