podcasts for female founders: Top 10 for 2025 Success
- (Admin) The Thrivology Company
- Sep 19, 2024
- 9 min read
Ears to the Ground: My Top 10 Podcasts to Catapult Your Aspiring Founder Journey in 2025
Ever feel like you’re trying to absorb a business degree through osmosis whilst simultaneously deciphering toddler-speak and managing the school run chaos? And, if you’re anything like me, occasionally finding mysterious sticky patches on your laptop? You’re nodding, aren’t you? I see you! As a mum of four, a PhD researcher, and the founder of Femmeprenista, my days are a beautifully chaotic dance of ambition and real life. Finding time for dedicated learning can feel like searching for a matching pair of socks in the dark, but I've found a solution.
That’s where the magic of podcasts comes in. I know what it’s like trying to juggle it all, and podcasts are the ultimate learning companion for busy, ambitious women like us. They’re a way to soak up inspiration, gain strategic insights, and fuel our entrepreneurial dreams, often while our hands are busy with a million other things. In fact, a recent study showed that over 50% of entrepreneurs listen to podcasts to stay up-to-date on industry trends. Whether it's during the commute (even if that’s just from the kitchen to your ‘office’ corner!), while prepping dinner, or during that rare quiet moment with a cuppa, podcasts can be a game-changer.
But here’s the thing: with literally millions of podcasts out there, how do you choose which ones are truly worth your precious time, especially when you’re at that crucial "Foundation Builder" stage, laying the groundwork for your 2025 success? I remember one of my early mistakes – I spent way too much time on social media and not enough time learning valuable skills like marketing and finance. I wish I had a curated list like this back then. It would have saved me so much time and energy! I created this list based on their practical advice, actionable strategies, and focus on the mindset and well-being of female founders.
More Than Just a List: A Curated Path to Holistic Success
This isn’t just another random listicle of popular podcasts. Oh no. This is my handpicked selection, curated especially for you – the ambitious aspiring female founder, the visionary mother, the woman ready to build something truly meaningful in 2025. Each podcast has been chosen through the Femmeprenista lens, reflecting our core values of building businesses that not only thrive financially but also nourish your soul and integrate seamlessly with your life.
I’ve selected these gems for their power to help you cultivate:
A crystal-clear mindset and vision, helping you build unshakeable self-belief and take profound personal responsibility for your journey.
The creative spark for authentic marketing that truly resonates and attracts your dream clients.
Inspiration for streamlined productivity and systems, so you can work smarter, not just harder, even amidst the beautiful chaos.
And vitally, support for your well-being and sustainable energy, because your business can only flourish if you do.
These elements are core components of our Business Flourish Framework at Femmeprenista, which guides everything we do. It’s about equipping you with the tools to build focus, flair, flow, and fuel, with a smart integration of technology (what we call fusion) woven throughout. This list is designed to give you a taste of that holistic approach, helping you build confidence, clarify your vision, and gather actionable strategies for those exciting early stages of growth.
So, grab that cuppa, pop in your earbuds, and let’s dive into the podcasts that I believe will be invaluable as you plan for a powerful and purposeful 2025.
Carlene’s Top 10 Podcasts for Aspiring Female Founders in 2025
Here they are, in no particular order – because the 'best' one for you will depend on what you need most right now!
1. The Diary Of A CEO with Steven Bartlett
Why it made my list for 2025: Steven (who’s on my personal inspiration list!) has a brilliant way of diving deep into the stories behind successful entrepreneurs and thinkers. For an aspiring founder, the raw honesty and diverse experiences shared offer incredible lessons in resilience, the importance of a strong mindset, and the realities of the entrepreneurial path. It’s less about specific tactics and more about understanding the psychological and emotional journey, which is crucial for building that inner fortitude. As a busy mum in business, Steven reminds me that personal responsibility and focus can unlock my full CEO potential. You’ll find golden nuggets on leadership, overcoming adversity, and the power of a clear vision.
For the Foundation Builder (You!): This podcast is fantastic for building your confidence by hearing how others, even the mega-successful, have faced and overcome similar doubts and challenges. It normalises the ups and downs, reminding you that personal responsibility and consistent effort are key.
2. How I Built This with Guy Raz
Why it made my list for 2025: If you ever wonder how those big, well-known brands actually started (often from a kitchen table, a tiny garage, or a moment of sheer frustration!), this podcast is a goldmine. Guy Raz uncovers the origin stories of businesses, and it’s incredibly inspiring to hear about the early-day struggles, the pivots, and the sheer tenacity involved. It demystifies the process and makes success feel more attainable.
For the Foundation Builder (You!): Listening to these stories will give you a much-needed dose of "if they can do it, I can too!" It’s particularly helpful for understanding the importance of validating your idea, finding your first customers, and the grit required in those foundational stages. You’ll hear countless examples of entrepreneurs taking ownership of their vision and making it happen.
3. Online Marketing Made Easy with Amy Porterfield
Why it made my list for 2025: Amy is a powerhouse when it comes to breaking down online marketing into actionable, step-by-step strategies. While some of her content might feel more advanced, her foundational episodes on list building, creating lead magnets, and understanding your ideal customer are invaluable for anyone starting out. She really helps you develop that authentic connection with your audience.
For the Foundation Builder (You!): This will help you get to grips with the practicalities of getting your message out there authentically. It’s brilliant for clarifying who you’re talking to and how to provide genuine value, which is the heart of effective marketing. Think of it as building your business's unique voice and appeal from the ground up.
4. The Tim Ferriss Show
Why it made my list for 2025: While Tim covers a vast range of topics, his interviews with world-class performers often unearth incredible insights into routines, habits, and productivity systems that you can adapt. He’s a master at deconstructing excellence. For busy mums aspiring to entrepreneurship, learning how to optimise your limited time and energy is non-negotiable.
For the Foundation Builder (You!): Look for episodes focused on morning routines, habit formation, and overcoming procrastination. These can provide practical strategies for carving out focus time, managing your energy, and implementing simple systems to keep you moving forward, even when life feels overwhelming. It's all about working smart.
5. Unf*ck Your Brain with Kara Loewentheil
Why it made my list for 2025: Okay, the title is direct, and so is Kara! She’s a Master Certified Coach who uses cognitive psychology-based tools to help women overcome anxiety, self-doubt, and imposter syndrome. As aspiring founders, our mindset is everything. This podcast tackles those limiting beliefs head-on and gives you practical tools to rewire your thinking for confidence and empowered action. This is pure gold for strengthening your mental resilience.
For the Foundation Builder (You!): This is essential listening for building that unshakeable confidence and clarity of vision. It will help you identify and dismantle those pesky "I'm not good enough" or "Who am I to do this?" thoughts that can paralyse you before you even start. It's all about taking personal responsibility for your internal state. Like that time I spent weeks agonizing over the "perfect" name for my business, only to realize the real issue was fear of putting myself out there!
6. The Mel Robbins Podcast
Why it made my list for 2025: Mel is all about action and cutting through the mental clutter that holds us back. Her "5 Second Rule" is legendary for a reason. She offers practical, science-backed advice on motivation, confidence, and overcoming fear. Her energy is infectious, and she has a brilliant way of making you feel like you can tackle anything.
For the Foundation Builder (You!): If you struggle with procrastination or getting started, Mel’s advice is a game-changer. She provides actionable strategies to take those first crucial steps, build momentum, and develop the courage to put your ideas out there. This will help you move from thinking to doing.
7. The Goal Digger Podcast with Jenna Kutcher
Why it made my list for 2025: Jenna offers a lovely blend of marketing tips, productivity hacks, and inspirational stories, all delivered in a super relatable way. She’s built her empire authentically, and she’s very open about her journey, including the challenges. It’s a great all-rounder for aspiring entrepreneurs looking for both practical advice and a dose of "you got this!"
For the Foundation Builder (You!): You’ll find episodes on defining your brand, social media strategies for beginners, and balancing work and life. It’s particularly good for seeing how an authentic, personal brand can be built and how to connect with your audience in a genuine way, which is key for sparking that initial interest and trust.
8. Happier with Gretchen Rubin
Why it made my list for 2025: Building a business is a marathon, not a sprint, and your well-being is the fuel that keeps you going. Gretchen explores practical, manageable strategies for building happier habits. This isn't about grand gestures but small, consistent changes that can profoundly impact your energy and outlook.
For the Foundation Builder (You!): This podcast is brilliant for finding simple ways to integrate more joy and sustainable energy into your packed life. As a mum and aspiring founder, protecting your well-being is crucial to avoid burnout and show up as your best self for your business and your family.
9. Secret Leaders with Dan Murray-Serter
Why it made my list for 2025: This UK-based podcast offers refreshingly honest conversations with founders about the highs, lows, and often messy realities of building a business. It cuts through the hype and gets to the heart of what it truly takes. The insights on resilience, learning from failure, and staying true to your vision are invaluable.
For the Foundation Builder (You!): Hearing these candid stories from other (often British) entrepreneurs can be incredibly grounding and motivating. It reinforces that the path isn't always linear, but with determination and a willingness to learn and adapt, you can navigate the challenges of early growth.
10. The Marie Forleo Podcast
Why it made my list for 2025: Marie’s motto is "Everything is Figureoutable," and her podcast embodies that spirit. She combines practical business advice with motivational wisdom and a focus on creating a business and life you love. Her energy is uplifting, and she champions a multi-passionate approach, which many female entrepreneurs can relate to.
For the Foundation Builder (You!): This podcast is excellent for building a can-do mindset and tackling overwhelm. Marie offers great insights on clarifying your vision, taking imperfect action, and trusting your ability to find solutions. It’s about empowering you to believe in your own resourcefulness.
Your Journey, Your Soundtrack
There you have it – my top 10 podcasts to help you lay a powerful foundation for success in 2025. Remember, the aim here isn’t to listen to all of them religiously, but to strategically choose the ones that resonate most with where you are and what you need right now. Think of them as trusted mentors in your pocket, ready to offer wisdom, encouragement, and practical know-how whenever you need it.
Podcasts are an incredible, flexible resource, especially when you’re juggling the beautiful chaos of motherhood and the exciting birth of a business. They can help you learn strategically, adapt proactively, and take inspired action. The key is to not just consume, but to reflect and implement.
Ready to apply what you're learning? Here's your 3-step action checklist:
Pick one podcast from the list that sparks your interest.
Listen to an episode that resonates with your current challenges.
Identify one action you can take within 24 hours to apply what you learned.
If you’re feeling that spark of inspiration and wondering how to turn these insights into a concrete plan for your own aspiring venture, then our Spark Program is designed specifically for aspiring founders like you. It’s a 4-week accelerator to help you validate your vision and create an actionable plan. Learn more about the Spark Program here.
If you’re looking to discuss what you’re learning from these podcasts, share your own insights, or connect with a supportive community of fellow ambitious female entrepreneurs, I’d love to invite you to join our free Femme:Connect community. It’s a wonderful space for authentic networking and peer support. You can connect with other female entrepreneurs in our free Femme:Connect community
Here’s to a 2025 filled with learning, growth, and courageous action!
Carlene Nisbett
Founder & CEO, Femmeprenista (Coach, Mentor, Speaker)
Wife, Mother of four, Business Owner, PhD Researcher, Pet mom, Plant mom, 5'0" tall Passionate Multitasker & Wine Lover, You get the drift
P.S. This workbook is just the beginning!
If you're looking for a supportive community of like-minded female entrepreneurs who get it, why not pop over and say hello?
We'd love to welcome you!
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