Going through a global pandemic has taught us all about the importance of community, health, and happiness. Not only with our physical bodies but our minds and emotions, too. Living a vibrant, full life that motivates and inspires us requires the upkeep of our brain. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or other symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to a therapist who can help you navigate life changes and periods of sadness or grief. Or, if you’re simply having a not-so-great day, consider tuning into a podcast that helps you feel more like yourself, learn something new, or receive the burst of good vibes you need to power through.
In honor of World Mental Health Day today, we’ve rounded up the best podcasts for your mental health:
Cleaning Up the Mental Mess
Hosted by Dr. Caroline Leaf
We all have to manage stress; sometimes, finding a steady ground is harder than usual. If you feel caught underwater, you will enjoy the smart and science-guided tips that help you find tactical solutions. This podcast, hosted by a cognitive neuroscientist, best-selling author, and mental health and mind expert, gives you more control over your emotional and mental health.
Listen here.
My New Life by Lovevery
Hosted by Jessica Rolph
Nothing can prepare you for the first few months (or years!) of becoming a parent. Everything is new, you’re caring for another human, and you may constantly worry about their health. It doesn’t help that the internet is full of conflicting opinions. So rather than Googling, tune in to this podcast led by Jessica Rolph, a mother of three and the CEO of Lovevery. She interviewed experts to break down what’s accurate about child development milestones and ways to reduce stress and anxiety and build a strong connection with your little love.
Listen here.
Therapy for Black Girls
Hosted by Dr. Joy Harden Bradford
Using her extensive knowledge, experience, and background, psychotherapist Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, Ph.D., has created more than 300 episodes designed to connect with women of color. She covers all topics: stigmas, microaggressions, racial disparity, friendship, relationship nuances, and more. You’ll find her to not only be informative and helpful but encouraging — and even funny — too.
Listen here.
Mom’s Exit Interview
Hosted by Kim Rittberg
As a mom of two and former media executive who left her gig to become an entrepreneur, Kim Rittberg digs into the great resignation happening to women — primarily mothers — around the country. It’s meant to help females thrive outside of the 9 to 5 hustle, and she interviews a slew of experts to provide inspiration, knowledge, and belonging. Past guests include Gretchen Rubin, Dr. Lisa Damour, and others. You’ll feel less alone in your pursuit to somehow balance your professional and parenting goals after just one episode.
Listen here.
New Mindset, Who Dis?
Hosted by Case Kenny
If you like the idea of listening to a podcast, but you have a short attention span, don’t stress. This podcast might be the best option for you. Each episode is 20 minutes or less and takes a direct, no-sugar-coating approach to help people shift their mindsets. You can think of it as a fast and relatable way to take your current issues — whether your dating life or career — and consider them through a different lens. It focuses on practical mindfulness and aims to teach you to ‘catch feelings for yourself.’
Listen here.
Ten Percent Happier Podcast
Hosted by Dan Harris
You’ve heard of Dan Harris before: he’s the New York Times best-selling author of the popular 10% Happier self-help book. He’s also the founder of the mediation app by the same name. If you don’t have time to read the book or don’t have the patience for meditation, consider tuning in to another part of his franchise: his podcast. You’ll hear a lot about meditation and mindfulness, as well as good-to-know information on social anxiety, depression, happiness, relationships, and more. He focuses his advice on science-backed research, and it almost feels like attending class when you listen to his episodes.
Listen here.
We Can Do Hard Things with Glennon Doyle
Hosted by Glennon Doyle & Cadence13
If you’ve read Glennon Doyle’s best-selling book, ‘Untamed’ — you know about the mantra that saved her life: ‘We can do hard things.’ Now, she calls those five words a ‘worldwide rally cry,’ and she’s used that momentum to build her well-streamed podcast. The crux is simple: life is no cakewalk, and we all must find ways to endure and persevere. In this provocative, engaging, and relatable podcast, you’ll feel like you’re listening to your older bestie pushing you to keep going.
Listen here.
Where Should We Begin?
Hosted by Esther Perel
While some people grow up with access to therapy and encouragement from others to invest in this type of healthcare, others do not. In some communities, therapy is stigmatized and too expensive. One way to experience the therapy experience without actually booking a session is by listening to this podcast with psychotherapist Esther Pearls. In this, real couples and individuals walk through their various troubles, disagreements, issues, and concerns, allowing you to learn from others.
Listen here.
The Emotional Entrepreneur
Hosted by Scout Sobel
Have you considered saying buh-bye to your 9-6 (or, let’s be honest: 9-9 for most people)? And perhaps, starting your own thing? If so, it’s important to consider not only the financial impact but the mental shift, too. In this, Scout Sobel discusses the emotional experience of becoming an entrepreneur — something she knows firsthand as a best-selling author and founder of a multiple six-figure agency. Through her episodes, she’s candid about living with bipolar disorder and offers valuable insight on how to define success on your terms.
Listen here.
Getting Better: Stories of Mental Health
Hosted by Micheline Maalouf and Nadia Addesi
Celebrities: they’re just like us — they go to therapy! And they have breakdowns! And mental struggles! Take the photoshop filters off with this podcast, hosted by two licensed therapists on a mission to destigmatize mental health. Their star-studded guest speakers have included Chris Bosh, Meghan Trainor, Rebel Wilson, Ian Somerhalder, and more.
Listen here.
Black Girl Burnout
Hosted by Kelley Bonner
This podcast host does it all: she’s a licensed therapist, a company culture strategist, and the founder of Burn Bright Consulting. She has dedicated her life and career to helping Black women manage stress and develop beneficial coping mechanisms. With fifteen years of experience, she’s turned this must-listen podcast into a destination for Black women to discuss everything from sexism and relationships to friendships.
Listen here.
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