Podcasts have quickly become essential for healthcare professionals, students, and anyone interested in the medical field. They offer a unique opportunity to stay informed about the latest research, clinical practices, healthcare trends, and inspiring stories, all while allowing you to multitask. Whether commuting, working out, or taking a break, podcasts can keep you up-to-date and engaged with new ideas, technologies, and medical insights.
With so many options available, choosing the right ones to follow can be overwhelming. To make it easier, we’ve curated a list of the best medical podcasts to follow in 2025. These podcasts cover various topics, from the latest medical research to healthcare professionals’ personal stories. Whether you’re a medical student, a seasoned healthcare provider, or someone interested in medicine, there’s something here for you.
Medical Podcasts for Students:
1. The Short Coat Podcast
Ideal for: Medical students and those considering medical school.
The Short Coat Podcast is an excellent resource for anyone entering or currently navigating medical school. Hosted by a group of medical students at the University of Iowa, this podcast offers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges of med school. Topics cover everything from study tips and time management to mental health and the ins and outs of clinical rotations. The hosts often share personal anecdotes, providing a realistic portrayal of medical education and the lifestyle that comes with it.
In addition to practical advice, the podcast regularly features interviews with experienced physicians and medical professionals. These discussions offer insights into various specialties, giving students a deeper understanding of different medical career paths.
Why Listen?
- Provides valuable advice on surviving and thriving in medical school.
- Covers a range of topics from studying to mental health.
- Features guest experts offering career advice and insights into various specialties.
2. Science and Medicine: TED Talks
Ideal for: Medical professionals and anyone interested in cutting-edge medical research.
TED Talks is known for offering world-class presentations by experts in their fields. The “Science and Medicine” podcast brings together healthcare professionals, researchers, and scientists who discuss groundbreaking research, technological advancements, and the future of medicine. TED Talks are not only thought-provoking but also focus on the human side of science, featuring stories of innovation and the impact of research on real-world healthcare.
This podcast is perfect for those looking to stay informed on the latest medical trends and discover how science is shaping the future of healthcare. TED’s expert speakers are always at the forefront of scientific discovery, and the podcast provides a unique opportunity to hear their insights from the comfort of your home or office.
Why Listen?
- Features expert talks on the latest medical innovations and research.
- Covers a wide range of topics from new treatments to healthcare advancements.
- Provides both global and individual perspectives on healthcare.
3. The Undifferentiated Medical Student
Ideal for: Medical students struggling with choosing a specialty.
Choosing a specialty is one of a medical student’s biggest decisions. The Undifferentiated Medical Student podcast helps guide students through this process by providing detailed insights into various medical specialties. Hosted by Ian Drummond, a fourth-year medical student, the podcast explores the different pathways within medicine, from internal medicine to surgery, psychiatry, and beyond. The podcast features interviews with physicians in each specialty, discussing their fields’ pros and cons, lifestyle, and daily responsibilities.
This podcast is incredibly useful for students who are unsure about which specialty to pursue, as it helps provide clarity and valuable advice from those who have already chosen their path.
Why Listen?
- Offers a comprehensive exploration of various medical specialties.
- Features interviews with physicians who provide real-world insights.
- Helps medical students make informed decisions about their careers.
4. Everyday Emergency
Ideal for: Those interested in humanitarian medicine and crisis response.
Everyday Emergency, produced by Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières), provides an in-depth look at healthcare professionals’ work in emergency and crisis situations worldwide. The podcast shares the stories of doctors and medical staff working in disaster zones, war-torn regions, and refugee camps. Through first-hand accounts, listeners learn about the medical challenges these teams face and the impact they have on communities in need.
By listening to this podcast, you’ll gain an appreciation for the humanitarian work that is taking place globally while also learning about the unique medical challenges presented by these environments.
Why Listen?
- Highlights the work of healthcare professionals in crisis zones.
- Offers insights into the challenges of humanitarian medical work.
- Provides an emotional and educational perspective on global health crises.
5. Surviving Medicine
Ideal for: Medical students and young doctors interested in navigating their medical careers.
The Surviving Medicine podcast is designed to help medical students, residents, and young doctors navigate their careers’ often difficult early years. Hosted by a group of medical professionals, the podcast shares tips on how to survive medical school, manage stress, and find a balance between personal and professional life. Episodes cover topics such as building a strong support network, handling burnout, and developing essential leadership skills.
In addition to discussing personal strategies for success, Surviving Medicine also features inspiring stories from doctors who have found fulfillment outside of traditional clinical work, encouraging listeners to consider alternative paths within the medical field.
Why Listen?
- Offers guidance on managing medical school, residency, and early-career challenges.
- Discusses mental health, stress management, and work-life balance.
- Features personal stories from doctors who have navigated these challenges.
6. Bedside Rounds
Ideal for: Those who enjoy stories about the human side of medicine.
Bedside Rounds is a podcast that uses storytelling to explore the fascinating and often surprising aspects of clinical medicine. Hosted by Dr. Adam Rodman, this podcast takes listeners on a journey through the human side of healthcare. Episodes feature historical and contemporary medical stories, case studies, and discussions about the culture of medicine. Dr. Rodman’s engaging storytelling style makes complex medical topics accessible and entertaining, making it a great resource for anyone interested in learning more about medicine in a more personal and reflective manner.
The podcast also delves into topics such as physician-patient relationships, medical ethics, and how medicine intersects with society, providing a well-rounded understanding of the field.
Why Listen?
- Blends medical education with captivating storytelling.
- Explores the history and culture of medicine.
- Offers engaging content for listeners who enjoy personal and relatable narratives.
7. Docs Outside The Box
Ideal for: Doctors looking for inspiration and unique career paths.
Docs Outside The Box shines a spotlight on doctors who are doing things differently, breaking away from the traditional path of clinical practice. Hosted by Dr. Nii Darko, this podcast features interviews with physicians who have found innovative ways to use their medical degrees, whether it’s through entrepreneurship, public speaking, or advocacy work. The podcast inspires those looking to discover unique medical careers and emphasizes the importance of finding purpose and fulfillment in one’s work.
If you’re a doctor who feels constrained by the traditional healthcare system or is looking for new challenges, this podcast will encourage you to think outside the box and pursue non-traditional medical opportunities.
Why Listen?
- Inspires physicians to explore non-traditional medical careers.
- Features motivational stories of doctors who have created unique paths.
- Offers practical advice for doctors looking to make an impact outside of the clinical setting.
8. Board Rounds Podcast
Ideal for: Medical students preparing for board exams.
The Board Rounds Podcast is a highly recommended resource for students preparing for the USMLE Step 1, COMLEX Level 1, and other medical exams. Medical professionals host the podcast and offer study strategies, tips for mastering complex medical concepts, and guidance for managing the stress of board exam preparation. The episodes focus on high-yield topics, with expert interviews providing in-depth explanations of key areas students need to know to succeed on their exams.
For students looking to maximize their study efficiency and better understand exam content, the Board Rounds Podcast is an essential tool.
Why Listen?
- Provides valuable insights into board exam preparation.
- Offers expert advice and study strategies for passing medical exams.
- Focuses on high-yield topics for medical students preparing for exams.
9. Second Opinion
Ideal for: Medical ethics enthusiasts and those interested in healthcare policy.
Second Opinion explores complex issues in medical ethics and healthcare policy. Hosted by Dr. Michael Wilkes, the podcast dives into topics such as patient rights, healthcare access, and the challenges faced by the healthcare system. The discussions also examine the ethical dilemmas that arise in clinical practice and how medical professionals can navigate these challenges. This podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of medicine, law, and ethics.
Why Listen?
- Delves into medical ethics and healthcare policy.
- Offers discussions on complex issues such as patient rights and healthcare access.
- Provides a critical view of the healthcare system and its impact on patients and providers.
10. DocWorking: The Whole Physician Podcast
Ideal for: Physicians seeking work-life balance and personal growth.
DocWorking: The Whole Physician Podcast is dedicated to supporting physicians in achieving balance in their personal and professional lives. Hosted by Dr. Jen Barna and coaches Gabriella Dennery and Jill Farmer, this podcast covers time management, financial independence, leadership development, and personal well-being topics. It provides actionable strategies to help physicians succeed without sacrificing their mental health or personal lives.
The podcast emphasizes the importance of self-care, encouraging doctors to prioritize their well-being while navigating the demands of their careers.
Why Listen?
- Focuses on work-life balance and personal growth for physicians.
- Offers practical advice on leadership, career satisfaction, and financial independence.
- Helps physicians achieve well-rounded success in both their professional and personal lives.
Medical Podcasts for Professionals
11. MDFEME (Minority Doctors in Female Empowerment)
Ideal for: Female minority doctors navigating challenges in the medical field.
MDFEME is a podcast that focuses on empowering female minority doctors by addressing the specific challenges they face in the medical profession. Hosted by a group of women of color in medicine, this podcast dives into important topics such as racial and gender inequities, systemic barriers, and the unique obstacles female minority doctors encounter in a predominantly white and male field. The hosts share their personal stories and discuss ways to overcome these challenges while offering valuable advice on succeeding and thriving as a minority woman in the medical world.
The podcast also creates a supportive community by giving women of color in medicine a voice and a space to highlight their accomplishments, struggles, and the changes they’re advocating for in healthcare. It aims to inspire and provide actionable strategies for those who may face similar experiences or want to create a more inclusive and equitable environment in the healthcare system.
Why Listen?
- Focuses on addressing racial and gender inequities in the medical field.
- Advocates for empowerment and change, promoting inclusivity and equality in healthcare.
- Inspires female minority doctors to navigate and overcome systemic barriers while building a supportive professional community.
12. The Clinical Problem Solvers
Ideal for: Medical professionals looking to enhance their diagnostic reasoning and clinical decision-making.
For medical professionals, particularly those in internal medicine, The Clinical Problem Solvers podcast is an invaluable resource. This podcast is dedicated to helping listeners improve their diagnostic skills through a case-based approach. Each episode presents complex clinical cases, where the hosts work through the process of solving the problem, making it easier for listeners to follow and apply a structured framework for decision-making. The podcast emphasizes diagnostic reasoning, critical thinking, and evidence-based approaches to managing medical cases.
The hosts, a group of experienced physicians, share their thought processes and strategies for making accurate diagnoses and treatment decisions, which helps listeners refine their clinical skills. The Clinical Problem Solvers is not just for those in internal medicine; it’s relevant to healthcare providers in various specialties who want to sharpen their diagnostic acumen.
Why Listen?
- Focuses on improving diagnostic reasoning and clinical decision-making.
- Uses real-life, case-based scenarios to teach problem-solving skills.
- Helps refine a structured approach to managing complex medical problems.
13. Oncology Overdrive
Ideal for: Oncology professionals and anyone interested in the intersection of cancer care and contemporary healthcare topics.
Oncology Overdrive, hosted by Shikha Jain, MD, FACP, offers a fresh perspective on the world of oncology while addressing broader healthcare issues. Dr. Jain dives into important topics that affect not only cancer care but also the medical field as a whole. Through engaging interviews with experts, she tackles contemporary themes such as gender discrimination, the influence of social media in healthcare, and the challenges of navigating medical stereotypes.
In addition to these thought-provoking discussions, the podcast also highlights the latest advancements in oncology treatments and patient care, making it a valuable resource for healthcare professionals in the oncology field. Dr. Jain’s approach combines the latest clinical information with important social considerations, making it a must-listen for those wanting to stay informed about both the scientific and societal aspects of cancer care.
Why Listen?
- Offers a unique perspective on oncology, blending scientific updates with social issues.
- Features expert interviews on a variety of contemporary healthcare topics.
- Highlights gender discrimination, social media, and medical stereotypes in oncology and healthcare.
14. The Curbsiders
Ideal for: Medical students, residents, and practicing internal medicine and primary care physicians.
The Curbsiders is a medical podcast network made up of a diverse team from 15 institutions, including students, residents, and clinician educators. Hosted by doctors Matthew Watto, Stuart Brigham, and Paul Williams, this podcast delivers a combination of helpful study tips, fresh medical knowledge, and a healthy dose of humor. Each episode dives deep into a specific clinical topic, breaking down complex concepts to make them easier to understand and apply in practice.
The Curbsiders are especially valuable for those practicing internal medicine, family medicine, primary care, or hospital medicine. The team covers many subjects, from evidence-based practice to practical approaches to diagnosis and treatment. The discussions are engaging and educational, focusing on real-world clinical applications that can make a difference in patient care.
Why Listen?
- Features expert discussions on clinical topics relevant to internal medicine, family medicine, and primary care.
- Provides a fun, engaging, and humorous approach to learning complex medical concepts.
- Presents practical advice that can be applied directly to patient care and clinical practice.
15. Physician’s Guide to Doctoring
Ideal for: Practicing physicians and healthcare professionals seeking to improve their professional and personal lives.
Physician’s Guide to Doctoring is an essential resource for doctors who want to grow in their medical careers and other aspects of their lives. Hosted by Dr. Bradley Block, this podcast dives into topics that medical school often doesn’t cover, such as emotional intelligence, effective communication, building better habits, and navigating the complex world of healthcare policy and insurance. The discussions also explore how to network effectively and manage modern-day healthcare professionals’ unique challenges.
Dr. Block invites both medical and non-medical experts to share their insights, creating a well-rounded and engaging podcast. His ability to ask meaningful questions and facilitate thought-provoking conversations makes the content valuable, entertaining, and relatable. Whether you want to improve patient interactions or enhance your personal growth, this podcast offers something.
Why Listen?
- Covers essential non-clinical skills like emotional intelligence and habit formation.
- Features interviews with diverse experts, offering insights beyond traditional medical topics.
- Provides actionable advice for improving a physician’s professional and personal life.
16. The House of Pod
Ideal for: Healthcare professionals and anyone curious about social and medical issues.
The House of Pod is a captivating podcast hosted by two physicians, Joe, and his co-host, along with various guest experts from the medical field. Each episode dives into a broad spectrum of medical and social issues, offering an engaging mix of professional insights and casual conversation. The podcast frequently features doctors, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals who share their expertise and personal experiences.
Listeners can look forward to hearing discussions on topics such as medical breakthroughs, public health policies, and ethical dilemmas in healthcare. In addition to providing informative content, The House of Pod encourages audience interaction by responding to listener queries, making it an excellent choice for those who want their questions about medicine and healthcare addressed.
Why Listen?
- Covers a wide range of medical and social topics.
- Features guest experts sharing diverse perspectives.
- Responds to listener questions, fostering an interactive experience.
17. Glass Half Healthy
Ideal for: Individuals managing chronic illnesses and those interested in redefining health.
Glass Half Healthy, hosted by board-certified physician Dr. Jonar de Guzman, challenges conventional perspectives on health and wellness. Dr. de Guzman delves into the root causes of chronic diseases and explores how modern lifestyles contribute to their prevalence. The podcast emphasizes actionable strategies for self-protection and prevention, particularly for individuals living with chronic illnesses.
Each episode offers practical advice on lifestyle changes, diet, exercise, and mental health, aiming to empower listeners to take charge of their well-being. Dr. de Guzman also focuses on reframing what it means to be healthy, encouraging listeners to adopt a proactive and holistic approach to health that extends beyond traditional healthcare practices.
Why Listen?
- Addresses the root causes of chronic disease and how to manage them.
- Offers actionable self-protection strategies for chronic illness prevention.
- Encourages a redefined, proactive view of health and wellness.
18. Doctors Unbound
Ideal for: Physicians seeking inspiration and alternative career paths.
Doctors Unbound is a podcast that highlights the remarkable achievements of doctors beyond the walls of clinical practice. Hosted by Dr. David Draghinas, this podcast features inspiring stories of physicians who have ventured into entrepreneurship, politics, philanthropy, writing, and other exciting fields. Each episode provides a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the lives of these trailblazing doctors, revealing how they’ve leveraged their medical expertise to create meaningful change in the world.
The podcast is perfect for physicians who feel confined by the traditional boundaries of the medical profession and are looking to explore innovative and unconventional career paths. Whether it’s launching a startup, advocating for health policy reform, or balancing a creative passion with a medical career, Doctors Unbound offers actionable insights and encouragement for doctors who want to expand their horizons.
Why Listen?
- Showcases doctors excelling in fields outside of clinical medicine.
- Offers inspiration and practical advice for those looking to diversify their careers.
- Encourages physicians to pursue innovative and fulfilling endeavors.
19. The Nocturnists
Ideal for: Healthcare professionals and anyone interested in the personal side of medicine.
The Nocturnists is a unique podcast that brings the raw, emotional, and deeply human side of medicine to light. Hosted by Dr. Emily Silverman, this San Francisco-based podcast features live storytelling events where healthcare professionals share their personal experiences. Each episode showcases narratives about happiness, grief, self-discovery, and the profound human connections that arise in the world of medicine.
Listeners are taken behind the scenes of the healthcare profession, hearing stories that range from humorous to heart-wrenching, all tied together by the shared humanity of those in the field. The podcast also explores themes of burnout, moral injury, and the mental health challenges medical professionals face, creating a space for reflection and connection.
Why Listen?
- Features deeply personal stories from healthcare professionals.
- Explores emotional and ethical challenges in medicine.
- Provides a platform for human connection through storytelling.
20. Explore the Space Podcast
Ideal for: Healthcare professionals interested in the intersection of medicine, society, and culture.
Explore the Space Podcast is one of the most informative medical podcasts available, skillfully combining healthcare topics with broader societal issues. Hosted by Dr. Mark Shapiro, this podcast features insightful conversations with thought leaders from various fields, including medicine, public health, technology, and advocacy. The episodes tackle many subjects, such as physician burnout, gender equality in healthcare, leadership in medicine, and how societal trends impact the medical profession.
What sets this podcast apart is its focus on creating a bridge between healthcare professionals and the communities they serve, fostering deeper understanding and collaboration. By addressing both pressing issues in the medical field and broader cultural topics, Explore the Space Podcast provides a holistic perspective that inspires action and innovation among its listeners.
Why Listen?
- Features diverse guest speakers, including thought leaders and advocates.
- Explores important topics like burnout, gender equality, and leadership.
- Combines medical insights with broader societal and cultural discussions.
21. 2 Docs Talk
Ideal for: Those interested in healthcare policy and its impact on the doctor-patient relationship.
2 Docs Talk is a concise, 15-minute podcast hosted by Dr. Amy Rogers and Dr. Kendall Britt, designed to keep you informed about the latest developments in medicine and public health. The podcast focuses on how policy decisions influence healthcare delivery and the doctor-patient relationship. By examining medical challenges through the lens of scientific evidence, the hosts aim to provide listeners with actionable insights to better navigate the healthcare system.
Dr. Kendall Britt, a hospitalist, and Dr. Amy Rogers, a medical author, offer thought-provoking discussions on topics that empower consumers to make informed decisions in collaboration with their healthcare providers. Episodes cover a range of issues, including changes in healthcare policies, public health updates, and the ethical dilemmas modern medicine faces.
Why Listen?
- Provides concise updates on medical and public health developments.
- Discusses the impact of healthcare policy on patients and providers.
- Encourages collaboration between consumers and healthcare professionals for better health outcomes.
22. Talk2MeDoc
Ideal for: Early-career physicians navigating the challenges of the medical profession.
Hosted by Andrew Tisser, DO—one of the top doctors to follow on Instagram—Talk2MeDoc is a podcast designed specifically for early-career physicians. Each episode explores the unique challenges doctors face in the initial stages of their careers, offering actionable advice, strategies, and support. The podcast features interviews with a wide range of guests, including CEOs of major hospital systems, office staff, and other healthcare professionals, providing diverse perspectives on the medical field.
Talk2MeDoc dives into topics such as burnout, moral injury, financial management, private practice, and advocacy. With a focus on uncovering common pitfalls and offering solutions, this podcast equips listeners with tools to succeed and thrive in their medical careers. The candid conversations and practical advice make it a must-listen for doctors looking to confidently navigate their early years.
Why Listen?
- Addresses key challenges faced by early-career physicians.
- Features diverse guest speakers, from healthcare executives to frontline staff.
- Provides actionable insights on burnout, financial management, advocacy, and more.
FAQs About Medical Podcasts
1. What makes medical podcasts a valuable resource for healthcare professionals?
Medical podcasts provide easy access to expert insights, real-life experiences, and the latest developments in medicine. Unlike traditional learning resources, they allow professionals to stay informed while multitasking, such as commuting or exercising. Podcasts often feature real-world applications, offering actionable advice, inspiration, and even mental health support for healthcare workers.
2. How do I choose the right medical podcast for my needs?
Choosing the right podcast depends on your goals. If you’re a medical student, podcasts like The Short Coat Podcast and Board Rounds are tailored for exam preparation and academic guidance. Physicians can benefit from more specialized content like Docs Outside the Box for entrepreneurial inspiration or The Curbsiders for internal medicine updates. It’s also helpful to check listener reviews and episode descriptions to find a podcast that aligns with your interests.
3. Are medical podcasts a reliable source of information?
Yes, most medical podcasts are hosted by experts like physicians, researchers, and healthcare educators, making them reliable sources of information. However, it’s important to verify claims by cross-referencing with peer-reviewed research or trusted medical organizations.
4. Are medical podcasts free to access?
Many medical podcasts, such as Bedside Rounds, The Clinical Problem Solvers, and The Undifferentiated Medical Student, are free to access on platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Some, however, may require subscriptions for premium content or CME/MOC credits, such as The Curbsiders.
5. How can medical students use podcasts effectively?
Medical students can use podcasts as supplemental learning tools. For example:
- Use podcasts like Board Rounds to reinforce topics covered in class.
- Tune in to The Short Coat Podcast for tips on managing the challenges of medical school.
- Follow The Undifferentiated Medical Student to explore different specialties and career paths.
Students can integrate podcasts into their routine by listening during breaks, commutes, or while exercising.
6. Can medical podcasts help with personal and professional development?
Absolutely! Podcasts like Docs Outside the Box and Physician’s Guide to Doctoring cover topics beyond clinical knowledge, such as leadership, entrepreneurship, financial planning, and emotional intelligence. These podcasts provide actionable insights to enhance personal growth and career satisfaction.
7. How often are medical podcasts updated?
The frequency varies by podcast. Some, like The Nocturnists and The Curbsiders, release episodes weekly or bi-weekly, while others, such as Oncology Overdrive, may have a less consistent schedule. Checking the podcast’s website or feed will give you an idea of how often new episodes are published.
Final Thoughts
Medical podcasts have become a game-changer for healthcare professionals, offering an engaging way to stay informed and inspired. Whether you’re a medical student navigating the complexities of your studies, a seasoned physician seeking professional growth, or simply someone passionate about healthcare, there’s a podcast tailored to your needs.
From exploring medical ethics with Second Opinion to learning diagnostic reasoning with The Clinical Problem Solvers, these podcasts are packed with valuable content to enhance both your knowledge and career. They also provide a much-needed sense of connection and motivation, showcasing stories of resilience, innovation, and human compassion.
So, plug in your headphones, explore the incredible world of medical podcasts, and let these thought-provoking discussions inspire you to grow both personally and professionally.