October 15, 2025
These are the top 15 podcasts that PR and communications professionals listen to.
In PR and communications, things move fast. News breaks in an instant, crises can hit unexpectedly, and digital trends shift faster than most can follow.
Podcasts are a convenient way to stay ahead of industry news without missing a beat. Podcasts deliver insider insights, tips, and perspectives directly to your ears — whether you’re on the train, at the gym, or squeezing in a moment between meetings.
If you’re looking to sharpen your communications skills, keep up with the latest industry buzz, or just want to better understand how others are navigating the shifting media landscape, these 15 podcasts have you covered:
1. The PR Week Podcast
Hosted by PRWeek editorial director Steve Barrett, The PR Week Podcast is a trusted resource for communications professionals seeking expert interviews, timely industry news, and in-depth analysis of global PR strategies. Each week, Steve unpacks the most impactful PR campaigns, agency developments, and leadership insights shaping the evolving communications landscape. The podcast regularly features executives from leading companies like Amtrak, United Airlines, and Ford Motor Company, making it an essential listen for anyone looking to stay informed in the dynamic world of public relations.
2. On the Media
A Peabody Award-winning podcast, On the Media delivers a thoughtful exploration of how news stories are reported, framed, and spread, helping PR and communications professionals grasp the power of media narratives and their impact on public perception. Hosted by Brooke Gladstone and Micah Loewinger, the show is renowned for deep dives into media literacy, journalistic ethics, and crisis storytelling. Brooke and Micah are skilled at translating complex media ecosystems into engaging discussions that equip communicators to anticipate and respond to shifting narratives. This show is a must-listen for anyone wanting to sharpen their media savvy and understand the forces shaping today’s news.
3. The PR Breakdown
Led by crisis communications strategist Molly McPherson, The PR Breakdown takes listeners behind the scenes of the biggest viral scandals, corporate crises, and reputation disasters dominating headlines. Molly expertly dissects what went wrong, what should have been done differently, and key lessons communicators can apply to future crises. The PR Breakdown is absolutely indispensable for anyone responsible for managing reputational risks or navigating crisis situations.
4. The Spin Sucks Podcast
Created and hosted by Gini Dietrich, the creator of the PESO model, Spin Sucks is your one-stop shop for modern communications strategy. Gini expertly covers the full spectrum of integrated communications, including PR, marketing, search, advertising, social media, and content strategy. If you want to learn how to build authentic relationships with your audiences and humanize your brand in a way that earns lasting trust, this podcast needs to be at the top of your list.
5. PRovoke Media Podcast
Produced by the editorial team behind one of the PR industry’s leading publications, the PRovoke Media Podcast delivers in-depth interviews with top PR leaders and provides thoughtful analysis on the future of public relations. Each episode offers an insider’s perspective on the key trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the communications world today. It’s absolutely essential for PR professionals who want to stay ahead of industry shifts and learn directly from some of the brightest minds in the communications industry.
6. Digital PR Explained
Britt Klontz hosts Digital PR Explained, a podcast that gets straight to the point with practical advice on media outreach, narrative framing, and effective media relations. It pulls back the curtain on what really works when pitching media, sharing an honest look at what reporters want and how to build strong relationships with them. If you want media insider wisdom on all things PR-related, this podcast belongs in your regular rotation.
7. Stories and Strategies with Curzon PR
Farzana Baduel and Doug Downs host Stories and Strategies with Curzon Public Relations, a podcast that tackles some of the biggest questions and emerging trends shaping PR today. In just 20 minutes each week, they explore a wide range of topics — from navigating the complexities of answer engine optimization (AEO) and unpacking AI’s growing role in communications, to examining whether public opinion still holds sway and how Gen Z is redefining the industry. No topic is off limits, and every episode offers candid conversations designed to help communicators sharpen their strategic thinking.
8. Smart in Public Podcast
Hosted by Katie Boysen and Katie Dufficy, Smart in Public offers an honest and often humorous take on the realities of working in public relations. Blending career advice, real-life case studies, and industry insights, the hosts create a down-to-earth, conversational vibe that feels like you’re listening to a chat with two big sisters. Their quirky, fun style shines through in their podcast’s tagline: “CEOs trust us, the media tolerates us, and our mothers think we know Oprah.” Whether you’re building your PR career or navigating everyday professional challenges, Smart in Public offers honest insights with a human touch.
9. The Communications Business Advisor
Tara McDonagh’s The Communications Business Advisor focuses on strategic guidance for both new and experienced communications professionals navigating the complexities of the corporate world. Drawing on over 25 years of experience with leading brands like Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts and Monster, Tara provides candid advice to help communications professionals level up from mere order-takers to strategic business advisors. She covers a range of topics, including how to earn the respect of executives, build a strong business case for resources, and navigate gender bias at work — perfect for communicators looking to influence decision-makers at work and strategically shape their career trajectory.
10. Attention Shift
Brought to you by top corporate communications executives Sean Garrett and Allison Braley, Attention Shift explores what captures and holds our attention in today’s fractured media world. Sean and Allison thoughtfully guide communicators through the challenge of engaging distracted audiences with clarity. The podcast is a valuable resource for PR and communications professionals seeking practical strategies to thrive in an increasingly fragmented and noisy media environment.
11. The Smart Communications Podcast
The Smart Communications Podcast with Farra Trompeter zeroes in on branding, marketing, and organizational storytelling, with an emphasis on nonprofits. Farra’s thoughtful conversations provide listeners with tools to clarify brand voice, improve audience engagement, and align communications with mission-driven objectives. It’s invaluable for anyone working in nonprofit communications or mission-focused marketing looking to build smarter, more authentic brands.
12. For Immediate Release (FIR)
Communications veterans Shel Holtz and Neville Hobson co-host For Immediate Release, where they unpack the most significant developments in digital communication and social media. Shel and Neville explore the deeper implications of emerging technologies, ethical questions, and evolving PR practices. From debates around AI’s impact on authentic voice to practical strategies for content and media relations, FIR stands out as a trusted forum for communications professionals looking to understand the profound shifts shaping their work today.
13. Under Embargo Podcast
Hosted by Parry Headrick and Becca Chambers, Under Embargo offers a candid look at the realities of working in public relations. Combining approachable conversations with deep industry insight, the podcast dives into the trends, challenges, and unspoken nuances of the PR and communications industry. Through a mix of personal stories and interviews with top leaders, Parry and Becca bring authenticity and humor to a space that’s often overly polished, helping listeners navigate the complexities of modern-day communications with a relatable and honest perspective.
14. On Top of PR with Jason Mudd
Jason Mudd guides listeners through the evolving corporate communications landscape on his podcast. Focused on reputation management, brand building, and strategic leadership, Jason’s show combines expert interviews to help corporate communicators protect and grow brand reputation, navigate crises, and influence key stakeholders. On Top of PR is a go-to resource for learning how to build credibility and trust in high-stakes environments.
15. PR 360
Hosted by Tod Perry, PR 360 offers an insider’s view into the evolving world of digital media, branding, and strategic communication. Tod pulls back the curtain on emerging trends, from luxury brand positioning to crisis management, through engaging interviews with top industry leaders across a range of industries, including real estate, hospitality, healthcare, and nonprofit sectors. Whether exploring how AI is transforming reputation management or dissecting successful storytelling campaigns, PR 360 equips communicators with practical frameworks for building authentic, trust-based relationships.
Conclusion
Staying sharp in PR and communications can feel like juggling endless balls: the 24/7 news cycle, emerging technologies, and unpredictable crises, just to name a few. The good news is, you don’t have to constantly be glued to a screen to keep up with the latest industry developments. Podcasts are a great way to learn from the best while on the go, whether it’s during your morning commute, your afternoon walk, or a quiet moment before your next meeting.
No matter where you are in your career or what part of communications you focus on, there’s a podcast on this list for you. So pick one that speaks to you, plug in your headphones, and let the podcast connect you to the stories, people, and strategies shaping our industry. Happy listening!
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