Podcasts are one of the best ways to redeem otherwise wasted time (I’m looking at you, daily commute).

Turn an otherwise dull commute into an amazing educational opportunity by listening to podcasts on the road.

Want to level up your publishing career? Here are the top marketing writing podcasts that can help authors like you.

But first, what is  a Podcast?

Before we get to the list, it may be a good idea to clear up what a podcast is. A podcast is an online radio show that is automatically delivered to your smartphone or computer.

Still not sure? Watch this short 4 minute video.

Looking for a great podcast app for your phone? Check out Gretchen Louise’s great podcast app roundup.

#1 Writing Excuses

This podcast is all about how to write amazing fiction. It is hosted by one of my favorite authors of all time, Brandon Sanderson. These focused, fast-paced fifteen minute episodes will teach you not just the basics, but also advanced techniques from New York Times bestselling authors.

• Length: 15-20 Minutes
• iTunes Link
• RSS Link Subscribe
• Website

#2 Novel Marketing

In this podcast, bestselling author James L. Rubart and I talk about how best to market your fiction. We talk about how to “build a platform” that attracts publishers, but we also get into advanced techniques to boost book sales. Disclaimer: This is my podcast, so I may be a bit biased.

• Length: 10-20 minutes
• iTunes Link
• RSS Link
• Website

#3 Author MBA

This podcast focuses on how nonfiction authors can grow a business around their books. They interview top experts that even a novelist could benefit from.

• Length: 30-60 minutes
• iTunes Link
• RSS Subscribe Link
• Website

#4 Helping Writers Become Authors

This is one of the shortest podcasts in the list, and yet somehow one of the most sophisticated. These focused podcasts each give a nugget of writing wisdom.  After a few you will find yourself downloading the whole back list of episodes.

• Length: 5-15 minutes
• iTunes Link 
• RSS Subscribe Link
• Website

#5 Grammar Girl

This podcast is one of the most popular podcasts of all time. These short episodes will clear up grammar questions, like when to use “their” and when to use “they’re”.

• Length: 5-10 Minutes
• iTunes Link
• RSS Subscribe Link
• Website

#6 Expert Entrepreneurs in Publishing With Viv Oyolu

This podcast from across the pond connects listeners with some of the top experts in writing and marketing.

• Length:  1hr
• iTunes Link
• RSS Subscribe Link
• Website

#7 This is Your Life With Michael Hyatt

Michael Hyatt started off by talking about platform-building for authors. Since then, he has pivoted into talking more about leadership, productivity and success—all of which are still helpful for authors.

• Length: 30-45 Minutes
• iTunes Link
• RSS Subscribe Link
• Website

#8 The Author Hangout by Book Marketing Tools

This brand new podcast is another marketing expert interview show, but with a twist. These interviews are recorded live and often include questions from the audience.

• Length: 30 minutes
• iTunes Link
• RSS Link
• Website

#9 Funding the Dream on Kickstarter Podcast

This crowdfunding podcast is one of my favorites.  Richard Bliss, the host, talks with hundreds of crowdfunders– both the successful and the unsuccessful– and asks them to share what they have learned.  He focuses mostly on board game developers, so some of you may ask, “what does this have to do with crowdfunding books?”  My answer is “a lot.”  The board game community is the most advanced embracer of crowdfunding, due in no small part to this podcast. So, if you want to see where book crowdfunding will be in 3 years, look at where gaming is now. Also, publishing a board game and publishing a book have a lot more in common than you might think. If you plan to traditionally publish your book, there is not a lot here for you, thus its spot at #9.

• Length: 15-25 minutes
• iTunes Link
• RSS Link
• Website

What are your favorite podcasts?

Do you like a podcast that’s not on this list? Post a link in the comments and tell us why you love it.