The way we consume media has changed considerably over the last five years. While TV and radio figures have taken a nose dive, the UK has seen a sharp rise in the number of podcasts being launched on platforms such as iTunes, Stitcher and Sound Cloud.

My top 5 podcasts on iTunes

iTunes originally started out as a platform for us lessor known mortals to have a voice and reach our target audience. However, the platform has grown so rapidly over the last few years, we are starting to see major names from the mainstream media such as Russel Brand, Mike Tyson and Lance Armstrong launching their own shows, and with great success.

No longer are the shows hosted by introvert oddballs, sitting in their bedroom in their boxer shorts, talking about videos games or World of Warcraft. There are some shows that are big businesses, reaching millions of listeners and consequently pulling in hundreds of thousands of pounds in ad revenue and attracting sports stars, industry experts and A-list celebrities.

Joe Rogan and Marc Maron are two of the biggest examples of podcast success notoriety.

But, it’s the niche areas and lessor know industry experts that really capture the true essence of what podcasts are about. Long format deep dives into subjects that might not warrant mainstream exposure on platforms like Netflix or Amazon Prime, but never the less attract a loyal following from people interested in those very subjects - business start ups, fitness, history, sex, video games, pick up, psychedelics and just about any other topic you can think of.

I’ve been listening to podcasts for years and dip in and out of certain shows, depending on where I’m at, at certain points of my life. Here are my top 5 shows available on iTunes past and present

Rob Moore - The Disruptive Entrepreneur

Don’t let the title mislead you. This isn’t just a show about entrepreneurship and business. As the show has grown in popularity, Rob Moore has side stepped and moved towards lifestyle and personal development. As the show has grown, so have the guests that have appeared. Ollie Ollerton, from the hit TV show SAS Who Dares Wins, David Goggins, the ex Navy Seal and author of You cant Hurt Me, through to entrepreneurs like Lawrence Jones, and and Super Dry Founder, Julian Dunkerton.

Brian Rose - London Real

One of the early pioneers of video podcasts in the UK, Brian Rose has taken London Real from a side project and built one of the UK’s most successful podcasts and lifestyle brands. In the early days, he followed in the footsteps of Joe Rogan and had many MMA fighters appear on the show. This has sadly declined over the years and, as the show has taken a more corporate and mainstream narrative, which I know upset a lot of the original listeners. Never the less, that has made way for major names in the world of sports, business and the celebrity world.

Ben Greenfield Fitness

What this man doesn’t know about fitness, nutrition and biochemistry is simply not worth knowing. Ben covers everything from coffee enemas and dietary protocols, through to effective training methods and newfound scientific reports on just about every imaginable aspect of performance. If you have an interest in nutrition and biohacking, but don’t have the time to listen to hours upon hours of podcast, then I would highly recommend you make this your go-to podcast.

Tim Ferriss

The acclaimed author of the 4 Hour Work Week, the 4 Hour Body and the not so popular 4 Hour Chef. Tim’s podcast is the go to show for everything ranging from performance optimisation, mindset and deconstructing the intricate skills of world class performers across a broad spectrum of skill sets. His recent observations and interest into the world of psychedelics is of particular interest to me and many people I know within the underground scene of alternative medicine. With a platform and reach such as his, it’s encouraging to see how the he manages to bring a wider understanding to such practices.

Aubrey Marcus

Founder and CEO of Onnit, author, philosopher and psychedelic explorer. Aubrey Marcus is one of the most prominent advocates of the powerful healing properties of plant based medicines. His journey and openness has paved the way for so many people who have embarked on their own journey and exploration of plant based medicines such as DMT (Dimethyltryptamine) psilocybin and ayahuasca. His expertise in the world of total body optimisation has influenced people across the world of sports and business which has seen his podcast grow with huge popularity.

Other shows well worth a listen

The Joe Rogan experience - the OG of podcasts - period! Anything and everything from MMA, comedy, politics through to psychedelic exploration and celebrities.

Rich Roll - Don't let fact that he is a vegan put you off. Great guests and a narrative into a better way of living. Well, if you’re a vegan that is.

Lewis Howes - not everyone’s cup of tea due to the Americanness of the format, but you can’t deny he has some great guests on the show.

What are your favourite podcasts? If you have any recommendations leave them in the comments below.

Or hit me up on…Twitter - Facebook - Instagram

I’m currently walking across the entire length of India (over 4,000km) raising awareness for Mental Health and Male suicide prevention - Follow my Journey