9 Beauty Executives on Their Favorite Podcasts for Learning and Laughs

Ever wondered what podcast Sephora’s chief executive officer listens to on her way to work?

Or which ones help keep the industry’s brightest beauty-tech innovators — like Jana Bobosikova, cofounder of The Estée Lauder Cos.-backed start-up, Kiki — on the cutting edge? Look no further: Beauty Inc polled nine industry trailblazers on their can’t-miss podcasts. Here’s what they had to say.

Artemis Patrick

President and CEO, Sephora North America

“‘Smartless’ by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes and Will Arnett. I love the organic conversations they have with their guests, and it just makes me laugh on my walks to and from work. Sean Hayes is my favorite!”

Nicole Fourgoux

Operating Partner, Beauty, Stride Consumer Partners

“My favorite podcast is ‘Breaking Beauty,’ which is hosted by two well-connected beauty editors, Jill Dunn and Carlene Higgins. They cover breakthrough beauty products and their development, and some of the most interesting founder stories in the beauty industry. I love that the hosts are thoughtful in their choice of topics and guests but do not take themselves too seriously. Perfect entertainment for beauty nerds.”

Reuben Carranza

Group CEO, Bansk Beauty

“I have been faithfully tuning into ‘Earned: Unlocking the Power of the Creator Economy’ since its start in mid-2020. I initially tuned in to gain insight into the lightning-speed evolution of the content creator space, but I’ve continued to tune in because it’s so much more: Conor Begley curates a masterful array of thought leaders — including brand founders, marketing pros, CEOs, tech and agency leaders, private equity players and more. It’s my 30-minute guilty pleasure and I learn something new every episode.”

Bertrand Thomas

Cofounder, Caudalie

“My favorite podcast is ‘Génération Do It Yourself’ — it’s fascinating to hear Matthieu Stefani’s guests share their personal and professional journeys in such an in-depth format.”

Mandy Fields

CFO, E.l.f. Beauty

“I find solace in sticking to a trusted source for my listening needs — which, for me, is NPR. While NPR offers podcasts as well, I prefer listening to its traditional radio shows, including The Morning Show, during my work commute and on weekend mornings at home. The diverse range of perspectives it offers through stories, opinions and insights challenge my thinking and broaden my horizons.”

Malena Higuera

CEO, Noyz

“I’m a big fan of ‘Gloss Angeles’ with Sara Tan and Kirbie Johnson. The podcast is a great mix of beauty insights, trend forecasting and industry intel — all delivered with humor and heart. I admire their ability to bring the beauty community together, too: right now, they’re spearheading relief efforts for those impacted by the fires in Los Angeles. Their work is a reminder of how beauty is about so much more than products — it’s about connection, resilience and the power of a strong community.”

Akash Mehta

Cofounder and CEO, Fable & Mane

“‘Tech Powered Luxury’ is a must-listen podcast hosted by Ashley McDonnell, a luxury expert with global experience. She delves into how technology is revolutionizing the luxury world and features insights from leaders in AI, sustainability and customer experience. It’s a gateway to the futures of tech and luxury — perfect for professionals and enthusiasts alike.”

Anna Mayo

Vice president, beauty, NIQ

“‘Pop Apologists’ is a favorite guilty-pleasure podcast for me. It’s hosted by two sisters, Chanler Bledsoe and Lauren Atkinson, unpacking the celebrity gossip of the week. I find them hilarious and it’s a fun brain break to listen to them chat.”

Jana Bobosikova

Cofounder, Kiki and CEO, 12:01

“The ‘All-In Podcast’ has become my weekly ritual for staying on top of the ways technology, business and culture intersect. It’s hosted by four legendary tech-operators-turned-investors (Chamath Palihapitiya, Jason Calacanis, David Sacks and David Friedberg) who bring banter, hot takes and deep insights to complex topics. What makes it particularly valuable for me is that the hosts aren’t passive commentators — they have skin in the game and take stances on the issues they discuss. Their discourse — and often, disagreements — over everything from AI to politics to economic trends prompts research and learning rather than pushing a particular point of view.”