7 Best Remote Work Podcasts for Your Mood and Productivity
When I started working from home, I never imagined that remote work podcasts would become such an important part of my life.
Actually, when you work remotely, your breaks become everything. They are your little reset buttons, a few precious minutes to clear your head, shift your focus or just breathe.
https://reclimatize.com/home-office-setup/One of the best discoveries I made during my remote work journey were podcasts. They have become my personal break-time companions. They make me laugh, teach me something new, or just help me feel less alone in my home office.
So, if you are looking for podcast recommendations that will boost your mood and your productivity, you are in the right place. Here are 7 of my absolute favourite podcasts to listen to during work breaks, all tried, tested and loved.
7 Best Remote Work Podcasts
🎧 1. The Daily: Stay Informed Without Overwhelm
Best for: A quick, smart news fix
Let’s be honest. Scrolling through news apps can leave you drained before you even get back to work. That’s why I turn to The Daily from The New York Times. In under 30 minutes, you get the biggest stories explained in a thoughtful, human way.
When I listen to The Daily on my break, I feel informed but not anxious. That sets a calm, focused tone for the rest of the day.
🎙 2. WorkLife with Adam Grant: Rethink Work and Motivation
Best for: A productivity and mindset boost
Adam Grant, an organisational psychologist, explores fascinating questions about work, creativity, and human behaviour. Episodes like “The Science of Productive Breaks” or “How to Love Criticism” have helped me rethink how I approach work challenges.
After listening, I often return to my desk with fresh energy and practical ideas I can apply immediately.
💡 3. The Happiness Lab: Train Your Brain for Joy
Best for: A mood lift and mental reset
Hosted by Yale professor Laurie Santos, this podcast dives into the science of happiness — with plenty of surprising insights. Did you know helping others during your workday can increase your own happiness?
On tough days when motivation dips, an episode from The Happiness Lab reminds me to shift my mindset and practice small acts of joy.
🎧 4. How I Built This: Get Inspired by Success Stories
Best for: Big-picture inspiration
If you’re craving stories of resilience, creativity and entrepreneurship, How I Built This is the podcast for you. Host Guy Raz interviews founders and creators about their journey, from idea to success.
I usually save this one for longer breaks. It’s like a mini masterclass in determination. And honestly, hearing about others’ struggles and triumphs makes me feel less alone when I hit a rough patch in my own work.
😂 5. Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend: Laugh Out Loud
Best for: Pure fun and stress relief
Sometimes, you just need to laugh. Conan’s witty conversations with celebrities are packed with humour and heart.
I put on Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend when I’m in a slump and need a genuine mood boost. Laughter may be the best medicine and it’s certainly one of the best productivity hacks.
🧘♀️ 6. Meditation Minis: Quick Calm for Busy Days
Best for: A mental reset and relaxation
These short, guided meditations (usually under 15 minutes) are perfect for recentring between meetings or after a hectic morning.
I especially love using Meditation Minis during midday breaks when my mind feels scattered. It’s amazing how even 5 minutes of mindfulness can clear the mental cobwebs.
🎨 7. Creative Pep Talk: Spark Your Creativity
Best for: Creative inspiration and motivation
If you’re a creative (or want to think like one), this podcast by Andy J. Pizza is a goldmine. His episodes are like pep talks from a wise, quirky friend who really gets the ups and downs of creative work.
After a Creative Pep Talk episode, I often feel braver about tackling my projects — even the ones that have been gathering dust on my to-do list.
🌿 Final Thoughts: Your Breaks Matter
Here’s the beautiful thing about working remotely: you can shape your breaks to truly serve you.
Whether you need to laugh, learn, reflect, or simply breathe, the right podcast can transform 10–20 minutes into a moment of genuine recharge.
So go ahead, pop on your headphones, queue up an episode, and let these podcasts become your secret weapon for better mood, stronger focus and a more joyful remote workday.
✅ Quick Recap: 7 Podcasts to Try
- The Daily
- WorkLife with Adam Grant
- The Happiness Lab
- How I Built This
- Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend
- Meditation Minis
- Creative Pep Talk
Now, it’s your turn! What podcasts do you love listening to during your breaks? Drop your recommendations in the comments. I would love to hear what you’re listening to and how it’s helping you stay productive and balanced while working from home.
