If you’re trying to take control of your money—whether that means saving more, budgeting better, investing smarter, or changing your relationship with spending—you don’t need a degree in finance. What you do need is practical, relatable advice from people who know their stuff and can break it down clearly. That’s where personal finance podcasts come in.
The best podcasts do more than explain financial concepts—they inspire you to take action. We’ve rounded up a mix of highly-rated shows that focus on everything from investing 101 to financial independence and money mindset. Each is evaluated based on clarity, insight, and actionability—so you can stop scrolling and start learning.
Best Overall for Practical Advice: The Dave Ramsey Show
Rated for: Clarity: 9/10 | Insight: 7/10 | Actionability: 10/10
Ideal for: Debt payoff, budgeting, financial discipline
Dave Ramsey is a polarizing figure in the finance world, but there’s no denying his podcast has lots of info to get out of debt and start building wealth. The advice is blunt and straightforward—cut up your credit cards, live below your means, and follow the “baby steps.” For people just getting started with managing money or trying to climb out of debt, it’s incredibly practical and motivational.
While the show leans heavily on a conservative, no-debt philosophy (which may not fit everyone’s style), the daily caller format keeps it engaging and relatable. If you’re looking for clear-cut steps and motivation to act on them, this podcast is a solid starting point.
Best for Beginners in Investing: Brown Ambition
Rated for: Clarity: 8/10 | Insight: 9/10 | Actionability: 8/10
Ideal for: Young professionals, investing newbies, women of color
Hosted by personal finance expert Tiffany “The Budgetnista” Aliche and business journalist Mandi Woodruff, Brown Ambition offers a smart, down-to-earth take on personal finance, career growth, and wealth building—particularly for women and communities of color.
The podcast shines when tackling real-life financial questions like “how do I start investing?” or “what do I do with my 401(k) from an old job?” The tone is conversational but informed, and the hosts’ chemistry makes even intimidating topics feel approachable. Bonus points for honest career advice and wealth mindset discussions woven in seamlessly.
Best for Financial Independence: ChooseFI
Rated for: Clarity: 7/10 | Insight: 9/10 | Actionability: 9/10
Ideal for: DIY investors, FIRE movement followers, long-term planners
If your goal is to retire early or design a life with more freedom and less financial stress, ChooseFI is one of the most comprehensive podcasts out there. Hosts Brad Barrett and Jonathan Mendonsa break down everything from index fund investing to tax optimization and travel hacking.
The show features interviews with people who’ve achieved financial independence through unconventional means, along with practical breakdowns of how to lower expenses, build income streams, and make intentional financial decisions. It’s best for listeners already comfortable with basic personal finance, but the archived beginner episodes offer a solid starting point.
Best for Mindset Shifts: Afford Anything
Rated for: Clarity: 8/10 | Insight: 10/10 | Actionability: 7/10
Ideal for: Questioning traditional paths, redefining success, long-term thinkers
Hosted by Paula Pant, Afford Anything centers around a powerful idea: you can afford anything, but not everything. This podcast goes deeper than just budgeting or investing—it challenges listeners to examine how they make decisions with their time, money, and energy.
The show balances high-level philosophy with practical advice and features expert interviews on everything from real estate investing to behavioral psychology. It’s ideal for those who want to think differently about money and life—and don’t mind a slower, more reflective pace.
Best for Fast Tips and Money News: Planet Money
Rated for: Clarity: 9/10 | Insight: 9/10 | Actionability: 6/10
Ideal for: Staying informed, understanding economic trends, casual listeners
Produced by NPR, Planet Money is a unique blend of storytelling and financial education. While it doesn’t give you step-by-step money advice like other podcasts on this list, it does help you understand how the economy works, why inflation happens, or how financial policy impacts your daily life.
Episodes are short, well-produced, and often unexpectedly funny. If you’re interested in economics but want it in plain English (and under 30 minutes), this is a great addition to your rotation.
A Smarter Money Mindset Starts Here
Whether you’re tackling credit card debt, dipping your toe into the world of investing, or just trying to get a handle on your financial future, there’s a podcast out there that speaks your language. From step-by-step guides to thought-provoking mindset shifts, these shows can help you build confidence, gain clarity, and start making smarter financial choices—one episode at a time.
Pick one or two that align with your current goals, plug in during your commute or lunch break, and let the insights (and savings) add up over time. Your future self will thank you.