The 35 Best Psychology Podcasts

Psychology explores the human mind and behavior, which is the most important field of human life. In this rapidly changing life cycle, it is crucial to understand and control your mind and emotions regardless the age. Psychology researches the influence of every aspect of our lives.

Many people turn to psychologists for help during different stages of life to solve various problems. But whether you're an expert, you have a general interest or you're a psychology student, here's our list of the best psychology podcasts to check out.

1) Very Bad Wizards

If you're fascinated by the "why" behind our moral compass, Very Bad Wizards is the podcast for you. Philosopher Tamler Sommers and psychologist David Pizarro dive deep into ethics, moral psychology, and the brain's influence on our choices, all through the lens of pop culture. From dissecting the concept of creepiness to exploring philosophical themes in movies, this show makes complex topics accessible and entertaining.

2) Psychology in Seattle

Hosted by Dr. Kirk Honda, a therapist with a talent for making psych accessible, this show covers everything from mental health basics to pop culture analysis. With a warm, humorous style and plenty of listener Q&As, it's the perfect entry point for anyone curious about the human mind.

3) Under the Cortex

If you're fascinated by the inner workings of the brain, Under the Cortex is a must-listen. With every episode you'll hear neuroscientists and other clinical experts break down complex concepts and cutting-edge research, covering topics like memory, emotion, and the ethics of brain science. Whether you're a neuroscience buff or just looking to learn something new, this show delivers.

4) Two Psychologists Four Beers

Grab a drink and settle in for some laid-back psych talk with Two Psychologists Four Beers. The hosts and their guests all serve up relatable insights on mental health, relationships, and personal growth, with a clever side of humor.

5) Huberman lab

Want to optimize your brain and body? Huberman Lab has you covered. Neuroscientist Dr. Andrew Huberman translates the latest research into actionable tips for better sleep, stress management, and overall well-being. With expert guests and evidence-based advice, this show is a go-to for anyone looking to level up their mental and physical health.

6) Making Sense with Sam Harris

Making Sense with Sam Harris is the place to be for a deep dive into the human experience. Neuroscientist and philosopher Sam Harris tackles everything from the science of the mind to morality, current events, and spirituality. Through his clear, concise style and several thought-provoking guests, this podcast will have you questioning everything you thought you knew.

7) Beat your Genes

If you're all about optimizing your health, Beat Your Genes is a must-listen. Hosts Dr. Rhonda Patrick and Dr. Robert Lustig break down the science of longevity, from genetics and nutrition to fitness and lifestyle. With a fun, informative style and plenty of actionable tips, this show will help you take control of your health destiny.

8) Where Should We Begin?

Couples therapist Esther Perel takes you inside the world of love and relationships in Where Shall We Begin? Drawing on real-life case studies, Perel explores communication, desire, infidelity, and cultural differences with the skill of a master storyteller. Whether you're coupled up or flying solo, this podcast offers surprising insights into the human heart.

9) Therapy Chat

If you’re curious about therapy but not sure where to start, you should tune in to Therapy Chat. With a warm, humorous style, host Laura Reagan and a handful of certified therapeutic experts break down mental health basics, therapy techniques, and the importance of seeking help when you need it.

10) Choiceology Podcast

Have you ever wondered why you make the choices you do? Behavioral scientist Katy Milkman has the answers in Choiceology Podcast. Milkman dives into the science of decision-making, from cognitive biases to practical "nudges" that can help you make better choices in everything from finances to health. With engaging interviews and actionable insights, this show is a must-listen for anyone looking to up their decision game.

11) The Psychology Podcast

The Psychology Podcast provides an excellent opportunity to understand the world we live in, yourself and others, and shows how to stimulate your mind. The host Scott Barry Kaufman interviews various experts and discusses such topics as human potential, creativity, intelligence, social issues, and much more.

12) Hidden Brain

The Hidden Brain, by NPR, is created and hosted by journalist Shankar Vedantam. This psychology podcast explores the unconscious structures that drive human behavior and answers questions that lie at the base of our complex and changing world. During each episode, you will dive deep into different topics in which Vedantam interviews other psychologists to explain things like finding meaning at work, becoming more empathetic, laughing at people, and more.

13) Speaking of Psychology

This psychology podcast will help you help you to get your knowledge directly from the pros at the American Psychological Association (APA). This podcast aims to highlight the most important and relevant psychological research used today and help listeners implement the science of psychology into their routine.

14) Shrink Rap Radio

Another beneficial psychology podcast is Shrink Rap Radio. Listening to this podcast, you will go deep into psychology together with the host, a well-known psychologist Dr. David Van Luys. You will participate in interviews about a broad array of psychological topics, including depth psychology, psychotherapy, dreams, consciousness, business psychology, mind/body psychology, developmental psychology, personal growth, research psychology, psychology and art, social issues, and spirituality. The list of world-class guests includes Charles Tart, Philip Zimbardo, Jonathan Haidt, Irvin Yalom, etc.

15) Personality Hacker Podcast

Personality Hacker Podcast aims to teach you the coding language of your mind so that you can hack your career, happiness, and relationship. Together with the hosts Antonia Dodge and Joel Mark Witt, you will explore how people approach personality and make better decisions based on your mind flow. You will listen to different experts and pros and find out how small changes in your personality can significantly impact your life.

16) The Mental Illness Happy Hour

The Mental Illness Happy Hour examines mental illness, addiction, trauma, and negative thinking.

The host, Paul Gilmartin, interviews various people about their struggles and experiences with mental health. Many of the listeners of this podcast are involved in creative arts.

17)The Positive Psychology Podcast

The Positive Psychology Podcast explores things like the appreciation of gratitude, beauty, relationship, positive emotions, and love. The host Kristen Truempy will help you find a better you through valuable insights, strategies, and tidbits for living a better life.

18) Brain Science

Brain Science is a perfect psychology podcast that will help you understand the biological processes in your head. The host Dr. Ginger Campbell, a physician with a passion for neuroscience, has been exploring the most recent discoveries and explains in-depth how our brain makes us the person we are. She interviews various experts who share the science behind topics like how to become more creative and how to prevent cognitive decline.

19) The Private Startup

The Private Practice Startup is hosted by Kate Campbell, LMFT, Ph.D., LMFT & Katie Lemieux, two therapists who built their private practices from the very start. They are passionate about inspiring mental health pros on their personal practice journey from startup to mastery! During each episode, they interview experts in the mental health and business arenas, entrepreneurs, and successful private practitioners to provide an abundance of information for every kind of listener.

20) All In The Mind

This podcast by BBC Radio examines various psychological topics each week, like exercises to prevent depression, how to control your worries, personality change, tolerance in the brain, etc. The host Claudia Hammond, interviews a wide variety of guests working in the psychology field. By listening to All in the Mind, you will explore all in your mind.

21) The Psych Files

Hosted by Michael A. Britt, Ph.D., this podcast explores various aspects of psychology, including cognitive psychology, social psychology, and psychological research. It often breaks down complex concepts in an engaging and accessible way.

22) Invisibilia

While not exclusively a psychology podcast, "Invisibilia" from NPR explores the invisible forces that shape human behavior and relationships. It combines storytelling with psychological insights to make complex concepts relatable. Unfortunately the show ended in early 2023, but leaves behind years' worth of fascinating insights and discussions.

23) The Aspiring Psychologist

Hosted by Dr. Marianne Trent, The Aspiring Psychologist offers tips and tricks to feel more confident when building skills and experiences to help you in your career as a psychologist. If you're looking to build a career in psychology, this is a great for insights and advice.

24) The Savvy Psychologist’s Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Mental Health

This podcast offers practical advice on how to improve your mental health and well-being. Hosted by clinical psychologist Dr. Ellen Hendriksen, each episode is designed to help listeners overcome common psychological challenges such as anxiety, depression, and stress 2.

25) The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

In this podcast, Dr. Santos explores the science of happiness and shares practical tips on how to live a happier life. She interviews experts in the field of positive psychology and shares insights from her own research on the subject 3.

26) The Social Work Podcast

This podcast is designed for social workers and other mental health professionals who work with vulnerable populations, but is also a fascinating insight into real-life cases of psychological trauma for laymen. Hosted by Dr. Jonathan Singer, each episode features interviews with experts in the field of social work and discussions on topics such as trauma-informed care, addiction treatment, and child welfare.

27) The Psychology of Eating Podcast

This podcast explores the complex relationship between food, psychology, and health. Hosted by Marc David, each episode features interviews with leading experts in the field of nutrition psychology and discussions on topics such as emotional eating, body image issues, and mindful eating practices.

28) The Trauma Therapist Podcast

This podcast is designed for mental health professionals who work with clients who have experienced trauma. Hosted by Guy Macpherson, each episode features interviews with trauma experts and discussions on topics such as PTSD treatment, attachment theory, and somatic experiencing .

29) The Anxiety Coaches Podcast

This podcast offers practical advice on how to manage anxiety and stress in your daily life. Hosted by Gina Ryan, each episode features tips on mindfulness practices, cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques, and other strategies for coping with anxiety .

30) Inside Mental Health Podcast

This podcast from PsychCentral covers a wide range of topics related to mental health and psychology. Hosted by Gabe Howard and Vincent M. Wales, each episode features interviews with experts in the field of psychology and discussions on topics such as depression treatment, addiction recovery, and relationship issues .

31) The Shrink Next Door

This podcast tells the story of a psychiatrist who takes advantage of his patients for personal gain. Hosted by journalist Joe Nocera, this true-crime series explores the dark side of psychotherapy .

32) This Jungian Life

What do your dreams really mean? Hosts Lisa Marchiano, Joseph Foote, and Deb Stewart dive deep into listener-submitted dreams, exploring symbolism and meaning through the lens of Carl Jung's analytical psychology. With lively banter and relatable anecdotes, they make complex Jungian concepts like the shadow and archetypes accessible and applicable to modern life. Whether you're a Jung enthusiast or just curious about your subconscious, this show is a fascinating listen.

33) Psychology Unplugged

Dr. Corey J. Nigro hosts weekly disucssions on psychology, neuropsychology and other mental health topics. Separate fact from fiction as the good doctor breaks down misinformation and controversies in psychology and psychiatry.

34) Who Knew? We Didn't!

Join Marta and Meaghan as they explore psychological studies and how they explain human behavior. Including episodes on The Good Samaritan concept, the bystander effect, addicition and criminal profiling. They discuss and debunk a myriad of psychological themes.

35) The Stanford Psychology Podcast

Led by students from the world-renowned Psychology department at Standford University, this podcast invites leading psychologists from around the world to talk about topical issues in psychology. Breaking down real science into actionable tips that can be used in everyday life.

Best Sports Psychology Podcasts

Here's a list of the best sports psychology podcasts:

1. Sports Psychology Podcast: A podcast by Dr. Patrick Cohn that provides insights into how to improve your mental game and perform better in sports. The podcast is suitable for athletes of all levels, from junior to professional.
2. The Sport Psych Show: A podcast by sport psychologist Dan Abrahams that aims to demystify sport psychology for players, coaches, and parents by speaking with some of the most influential people in sports psychology.
3. Sport Psychology Today With Dr. Andrew Jacobs: A podcast by Dr. Andrew Jacobs that airs every Sunday and is also available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
4. The MindSide Podcast: A podcast by Dr. Bhrett McCabe that explores the mental game of sports and how it affects performance.
5. Winning Mindset: A podcast that teaches listeners how to bring out their best when it matters most in sports, school, business, and life.

Best Forensic Psychology Podcasts

Here's some recommendations on the best forensic psychology podcasts to listen to, available from Spotify, Apple Podcasts and on the podcast's own website:

1. Forensic Psychology: A podcast by Dr. Carlos that discusses concepts in the world of forensic psychology and criminal psychopathology. The podcast is suitable for students, professionals, and anyone interested in the field of forensic psychology.
2. Inside The Badge: A podcast that discusses criminal law from a forensic psychology perspective. The podcast is hosted by a forensic psychology professor and is suitable for anyone interested in the intersection of law and psychology.
3. The Forensic Psychologist Podcast: A podcast that delves into the realms of forensic psychology and covers a wide range of topics related to the field. The podcast features interviews with experts in the field of forensic psychology and is suitable for students, professionals, and anyone interested in the subject matter.
4. What the Forensics: A podcast hosted by three post-secondary university students majoring in different fields while being also enrolled in a Forensic Science Certification Program.
5. The Forensic Psychology Podcast: A podcast by Sally Tilt and Dr Kerensa Hocken from HM Prison and Probation Service Psychology team that interviews colleagues who do vitally important work in prisons across England and Wales.

The Best Psychology Podcasts on Spotify

1. Very Bad Wizards
2. Psychology in Seattle
3. Under the Cortex
4. Two Psychologists Four Beers
5. Huberman Lab
6. Making Sense with Sam Harris
7. Beat Your Genes
8. Where Shall We Begin?
9. Therapy Chat
10. Choiceology Podcast
11. The Psychology Podcast
12. Hidden Brain
13. Speaking of Psychology
14. Shrink Rap Radio
15. Personality Hacker Podcast
16. The Mental Illness Happy Hour
17. The Positive Psychology Podcast
18. Brain Science
19. The Private Startup
20. All In The Mind
21. The Psych Files
22. Invisibilia
23. The Aspiring Psychologist
24. The Savvy Psychologist’s Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Mental Health
25. The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos
26. The Social Work Podcast
27. The Psychology of Eating Podcast
28. The Trauma Therapist Podcast
29. The Anxiety Coaches Podcast
30. Inside Mental Health Podcast
31. The Shrink Next Door
32. This Jungian Life
33. Psychology Unplugged
34. Who Knew? We Didn't!
35. The Stanford Psychology Podcast