Business podcasts have become a key learning resource for many MBA students, who turn to them for real-world insights, practical advice and career inspiration. To better understand this trend, a recent study conducted on behalf of Youngstown State University (YSU) explored how students in MBA programs listen to business podcasts and what they gain from them. The results reveal that podcasts are influencing everything from academic performance to career decisions and personal growth.
Key Takeaways
- MBA students who listen to business podcasts daily were most likely to report being in good mental health (67%).
- MBA students who listen to “Freakonomics” (3.73) and “The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett” report having the highest GPAs (3.68).
- Nearly one in five MBA students who listen to business podcasts (19%) have changed their career path or industry because of a podcast episode.
- Almost half of polled students (46%) have seriously considered starting a business or side hustle because of a business podcast, and 32% already have.
- 35% of MBA students who listen to business podcasts have applied lessons learned from them to negotiation strategies, and 22% have requested a raise or promotion.
How Often and When MBA Students Listen to Podcasts
Instead of serving only as entertainment, podcasts have become a practical tool for students to stay informed and engaged with business topics beyond the classroom. Here’s how often MBA students listen, when they typically tune in, and how these habits relate to their academic performance and overall well-being.
One in 10 MBA students said they listen to business podcasts daily. Another 27% listen several times a week, and 20% listen at least once a week. Students fit podcast listening into various parts of their day. The most popular time to listen was during a commute, followed by while cooking/doing chores and exercising. Other common times were before bed and while working.
Daily listeners reported the highest levels of good mental health, with 67% describing their well-being positively. Students who frequently listened to “Freakonomics” reported the best GPA, with an average of 3.73. Those who preferred “The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett” came in second with an average GPA of 3.68.
How Podcasts Influence MBA Students’ Careers and Goals
Listening to business podcasts often leads to more than just knowledge, driving real action in students’ professional lives. Many MBA students use podcast content to reflect on their career paths, improve their leadership style and prepare for important workplace conversations.
Nearly one in five MBA students (19%) said a podcast inspired them to change their career path or switch industries. More than half (51%) used podcast insights to improve their communication, and 49% applied leadership strategies they learned from specific episodes.
Students also leaned on podcast advice during important professional moments. About 35% applied podcast lessons during negotiations, while 22% used what they learned to ask for a raise or promotion.
Entrepreneurship is another area where podcasts have left a strong mark. Nearly half of MBA students (46%) said a podcast encouraged them to seriously consider launching a business or side hustle, and 32% had already done so.
The Most Valuable Podcast Topics
When it comes to must-hear podcasts, MBA students know what belongs on the list. They’ve also identified the podcast topics they find most helpful as a future business leader.
When asked to identify the most helpful podcast topics, 47% of students chose motivation and mindset. Another 40% selected business strategy, and 35% picked leadership development. These themes give listeners not only practical advice but also the drive to reach their goals.
MBA students also expressed preferences in how they learn a new business concept. Nearly half (47%) said they preferred listening to podcast episodes by themselves. Forty-five percent liked combining podcasts with textbooks, and 8% chose textbooks alone.
When it comes to must-hear podcasts, “How I Built This” ranked No.1. Students also recommended “My First Million” and “Freakonomics” as top shows every MBA candidate should hear. These programs mix real-world success stories with insights that future business leaders can apply directly to their studies and careers.
Podcasts Are a Tool for Tomorrow’s Business Leaders
Business podcasts are helping MBA students connect what they learn in class with real-world skills. Listeners are using podcast insights to improve performance, make career choices and even launch new businesses. The findings show that podcasts are more than background noise. They’re a practical tool for growth, confidence and future leadership.
Methodology
This questionnaire of 226 MBA students was conducted on behalf of YSU from August 6-13, 2025. This is a non-scientific, exploratory questionnaire designed to explore behavioral and attitudinal trends. It is not intended to represent all MBA students.
About Youngstown State University
Youngstown State University offers flexible, accredited online MBA programs designed for professionals who want to lead in a competitive business world. These programs help students build the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in today’s fast-changing market on a schedule that fits their lives.
Fair Use Statement
You are welcome to share this article for noncommercial use. Please include a link back to this page and credit Youngstown State University as the source.
