Management consulting is not just a profession. It is an ever-evolving discipline that demands a keen understanding of business strategy, change management, and the ability to navigate complex organizational challenges.
Whether you are an aspiring consultant eager to break into the industry or a startup co-founder looking to sharpen your skills, podcasts can be invaluable.
Podcasts offer a unique blend of expert interviews, thought leaders, and podcast features such as case studies and industry playbook discussions. In an age where continuous learning is paramount, podcasts serve as a bridge to the collective wisdom of the consulting world.
Below is a list of the best podcasts catering to everyone interested in consulting. These shows provide value to experienced consultants in private equity and healthcare, as well as to professionals entering the business consulting profession.
The Strategy Skills Podcast
Hosted by Firms Consulting, this show teaches the tools and techniques top consultants at McKinsey, BCG, and Bain use every day. Without joining a major firm, you can still master case interview preparation, strengthen analytical skills, and learn implementation strategies that create a reliable consulting playbook.
The podcast covers both technical analyses and soft skills like communication. Each episode delves into concepts that help listeners enhance their strategy, operations, and implementation skills. They also dissect individual consulting studies in detail, allowing listeners to replicate them confidently.
Takeaways: Practical frameworks, consulting playbook insights, and career guidance from elite firms.
Listen here to The Strategy Skills Podcast.
Consulting Success Podcast
The “Consulting Success Podcast” is hosted by Michael Zipursky, the CEO of Consulting Success. This podcast is a goldmine for consultants looking to elevate their practice to the next level. Each episode features insightful conversations with high-performing consultants from various fields who share their journey, the challenges they overcame, and the strategies that contributed to their success.
Michael delves into topics that resonate with consultants, such as marketing on LinkedIn and social media, income growth, managing burnout, and business scaling, providing actionable advice that listeners can implement in their consulting practices. The podcast shares success stories and discusses consultants’ hurdles and setbacks, offering a well-rounded perspective on the consulting profession.
Takeaways: Proven steps for creating a profitable practice with smarter pricing, effective marketing, and improved mindset.
Listen here to the Consulting Success Podcast.
The McKinsey Podcast
The McKinsey Podcast: Insights from Experts on Business & Management provides listeners with an inside look into McKinsey & Company—one of the most well-known management consulting firms.
This new flagship podcast series features conversations with experts on pressing issues in business and management. Topics range from strategy and technology to leadership and the role of business in society.
Takeaways: Insights from leading consultants at McKinsey and Bain on industries such as healthcare and private equity.
Listen here to the The McKinsey Podcast.
Climb In Consulting
Climb in Consulting offers in-depth interviews with leaders in the consulting industry. The podcast shares strategies, tips, and advice that have propelled guests to careers as successful business consultants. Whether you aim to reach your firm’s top tiers or carve a niche as an independent consultant, this podcast provides valuable insights.
Takeaways: Career growth strategies and consulting playbook lessons from top professionals.
Listen here to Climb In Consulting.
Smart Consulting Sourcing
Hosted by Hélène Laffitte, the CEO of Consulting Quest, this podcast provides listeners with the essential keys to better use, manage, and source consulting services. With a focus on the intricacies of consulting sourcing, Laffitte offers a deep dive into the consultancy world, ensuring that businesses get the most out of their consulting partnerships.
Takeaways: Improve your ability to manage consulting sourcing, enhance pricing models, and build lasting partnerships.
Listen here to Smart Consulting Sourcing
Working Without Pants
Jake Jorgovan hosts the “Working Without Pants” podcast, tailored for independent consulting business owners. The podcast emphasizes the strategies for winning more clients and better clients for their businesses. With interviews featuring industry leaders and experts, listeners can expect a mix of insights, strategies, and real-world experiences that can help them thrive in the consulting landscape.
Takeaways: A practical playbook for independent consultants focused on client growth, social media strategies, and avoiding burnout.
Listen here to: “Working Without Pants”
Consulting Lifestyle Podcast!
Hosted by Diogène Ntirandekura, an ERP consultant, this podcast is a comprehensive guide for B2B consultants. It covers various topics, from leadership and personal development to sales, CRM, ERP, and more. The podcast also delves into the challenges and rewards of living the consulting lifestyle, offering a balanced perspective for newcomers and industry veterans.
Takeaways: Understand the balance between personal development, client delivery, and sustainable business strategy.
Listen here to the “Consulting Lifestyle Podcast.”
Everything Business Consulting | A Podcast for Business Consultants.
This weekly podcast is a must-listen for existing business consultants and those looking to enter the profession. Covering everything about business and business consulting, it features exciting interviews with various professionals from different sectors. Whether you’re an accountant, an entrepreneur, or a business consultant, this podcast provides insights and strategies to help you navigate the consulting world.
Takeaways: A complete playbook for both aspiring and established business consultants.
Listen here to “Everything Business Consulting.”
The Minding Your Business Podcast
This podcast, hosted by Ron ‘Champ’ Brooks, delves into entrepreneurship, real estate, and trending news. With a focus on practical business practices and strategies, Brooks offers listeners a chance to explore the nuances of minding their business. From best practices to industry insights, this podcast is a comprehensive guide for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and business enthusiasts.
Takeaways: Real-world examples of building entrepreneurial success and strengthening consulting practices.
Listen here to “The Minding Your Business Podcast.”
Management Consulting Insights by Kevin Jon
Kevin Jon specializes in providing personal insights into the management consulting industry and how high-performing successful consultants operate. With experience spanning over three years in management consulting before transitioning to venture capital, Kevin shares his journey, challenges, and strategies. This podcast is a treasure trove for those looking to enter, thrive, or exit the management consulting sector.
Takeaways: Guidance from a consultant-turned-investor on career development and client management.
Listen here to “Management Consulting Insights.”
Tech Consulting Fastcast
Technology consultant Jim Barrett hosts this podcast about the fast-paced software development and delivery world. With a focus on getting products to market efficiently, Barrett engages with industry experts to discuss everything from digital product strategy to successful delivery.
Takeaways: Fast-paced insights on technology delivery and consulting innovations.
Listen here to “Tech Consulting Fastcast.”
Consulting with Shan
Shan, the founder of a financial advising company and an internationally renowned online business consultant, brings you the “Consulting with Shan” podcast. With over two decades of entrepreneurial experience, Shan discusses the nuances of financial consulting, offering insights, strategies, and tips to help businesses and individuals navigate the financial landscape.
Takeaways: Tactical lessons in finance, entrepreneurship, and consulting business growth.
Listen here to “Consulting with Shan.”
Craft of Consulting
The “Craft of Consulting” podcast, hosted by Deb Zahn, is tailored for new and seasoned consultants. It offers a deep dive into the consultancy world, providing invaluable insights and strategies to help professionals thrive in their consulting careers. The show features seasoned consultants who share their experiences, lessons learned, and best practices. Additionally, clients come on board to offer their unique perspectives on what they truly desire and expect from consultants.
From managing client relationships to navigating the challenges of consultancy, Deb Zahn covers a broad spectrum of topics, ensuring listeners have the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in the consulting industry.
Takeaways: Direct advice from consultants and clients about what truly matters in consulting.
Listen here to “Craft of Consulting.”
Entrepreneurs on Fire
This is a highly acclaimed podcast hosted by John Lee Dumas. The podcast is a treasure trove of insights, experiences, and success stories from the most inspiring entrepreneurs across the globe. Each episode features interviews with successful entrepreneurs who share their journey, including the challenges they faced, the strategies they employed, and the lessons they learned along the way.
John Lee Dumas delves into meaningful conversations with his guests, extracting actionable advice and tips that listeners can apply in their entrepreneurial endeavors. Whether you’re just starting or looking to scale your business, “Entrepreneurs on Fire” provides inspiration, practical strategies, and a sense of community for all ambitious entrepreneurs.
Takeaways: Proven steps from global thought leaders who have built impactful businesses.
Listen here to “Entrepreneurs on Fire.”
Final Thoughts
In the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of management consulting, staying updated with the latest trends, strategies, and insights is crucial for success.
Podcasts are an efficient resource for budding and seasoned consultants to learn from industry leaders, gain diverse perspectives, and refine their skills. The podcasts listed in this article cover a broad spectrum of topics within the consulting realm, offering a rich source of knowledge and inspiration.
