Welcome to Black Unicorn’s definitive guide to European startup podcasts. Have you ever heard people say they believe that there are too many podcasts? Believe it or not, once upon a time there were only a few channels on TV, and many thought new cable offerings would be a failure. For consecutive years, podcasts have been growing in numbers. People are listening them in their commutes, walks, runs, at the gym and any other situation that allows multitasking. We suspect even ones that don’t.
When it comes to startup podcasts, we have selected pan-European, regional and country-level podcasts that we believe are the best in their class. Check them out below and let us know what you think of our selection.
| Name of Podcast | Name of Host(s) | Main focus | Home country | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20VC | Harry Stebbings | Global startups and VC | UK 🇬🇧 | 20VC |
| TNW Podcast | Andrii Degeler | European startups and VC | Netherlands 🇳🇱 | TNW Podcast |
| The Pursuit of Scrappiness | Uldis Teraudkalns and Janis Zeps | Startups and VC, Baltic touch | Latvia 🇱🇻 | The Pursuit of Scrappiness |
| Runway | Julija Jegorova and Mauro Battellini | Business building, marketing, sales | UK 🇬🇧 | Runway on BUPR |
| Tech Talks | David Savage | UK startups and VC | UK 🇬🇧 | Tech Talks |
| EU Startups Podcast | Marcin Lewandowski | European startups and VC | Spain 🇪🇸 | EU Startups Podcast |
| EUVC | Andreas Munk Holm and David Cruz e Silva | European VC | Denmark 🇩🇰 | EUVC |
| Startup Europe, by Sifted | Amy Lewin | European startups and VC | UK 🇬🇧 | Startup Europe by Sifted |
| UKTN – The Podcast | Jane Wakefield | UK startups and VC | UK 🇬🇧 | UKTN – The Podcast |
| Startuprad.io | Jörn ‘Joe’ Menninger | DACH startups and VC | Germany 🇩🇪 | Startuprad.io |
| The Recursive Podcast | Irina Obushtarova | South Eastern Europe startups and VC | Bulgaria 🇧🇬 | The Recursive Podcast |
| Cereal Entrepreneur, by Startups Magazine | Anna Wood | UK startups and VC | UK 🇬🇧 | Cereal Entrepreneur Pod |
| Irish Tech News Podcast | Ronan Leonard and Simon Cocking | Irish startups and VC | Ireland 🇮🇪 | Irish Tech News Podcast |
| Made IT Podcast | Inès Makula and Camilla Scassellati Sforzolini | Italian startups and VC | Italy 🇮🇹 | Made IT Podcast |
| Selected – The Sesamers Podcast | Ben Constantini | European startups and VC and – tech events | France 🇫🇷 | Selected Sesamers |
20VC
What else could we say here? The 20VC podcast has been legendary for a while now. Hosted by Harry Stebbings, who used podcasting to build a career in VC and become one of the most influential UK investors, the show features interviews with some of the world’s founders and fellow VCs. By now, it’s the Rolls Royce of startup podcasts.
Harry puts an enormous amount of emphasis on extracting actionable insights and unique bits of advice from each guest. Expect quality, as he famously abstains from publishing episodes he doesn’t feel are up to par. Despite this, there are so many episodes that 20VC’s site is perhaps the closest thing to a VC and startup encyclopaedia there is.
One of our favourite recent episodes were with Daniel Dines of UiPath – an incredible story from earning less than $1 per day, to founding Romania’s first tech unicorn and becoming the country’s richest person.
Host: Harry Stebbings
Language: English
URL: https://www.thetwentyminutevc.com/
TNW Podcast
The TNW Podcast, hosted by Andrii Degeler, explores the forefront of the European technology landscape. Very much like the rest of The Next Web, topics that are at the bleeding edge of innovation get covered here, with particular emphasis on topics such as deeptech, sustainability, ecosystems, data, fintech and the future of work.
Andrii is no stranger to startup podcasts. He is a seasoned tech journalist from Ukraine that worked in different journalism and brand roles including as Head of Brand at Dutch early stage investors Rockstart. Previously at Tech.eu (where he also ran the podcast), Ars Technica and Kyiv Post, he actually came full circle as The Next Web’s Head of Media after a previous stint there.
Now based in Amsterdam, he brings his extensive journalistic, startup and VC, and podcasting experience to each episode. The podcast features conversations with startup founders such as Peter Garraghan from security for AI startup Mindgard and also the likes of Alexandra Balkova from accelerator-fund Startup Wise Guys on the investor side. Check out their latest episodes for what’s next in tech.
Host: Andrii Degeler
Language: English
URL: https://podcast.thenextweb.com/
The Pursuit of Scrappiness
The Pursuit of Scrappiness podcast, hosted by fintech CEO Uldis Teraudkalns and digital marketer Janis Zeps, explores the latest in tech and business from a uniquely Baltic perspective. Or at least, that’s what they say. For us, it’s one of those startup podcasts with universally applicable lessons. One of the reasons why? Baltic founders are not naive, they know their markets are small, so they all start an international journey from day 1. So they all have useful 0 to 1 lessons in a European context, sometimes also the US, LATAM, Africa or Asia.
The two Latvian hosts interview influential guests from the Baltics and beyond. You will find the biggest and most relevant VC players from the region, founders who raised dozens of millions like Eerik Oja of Planet42 as well as new and emerging startups. Most recently the likes of Taavet Hinrikus (Wise, Plural) and Allan Martinson (Starship, Xolo, others), but also international business and tech leaders such as Rahul Vohra from Superhuman or Zoltan Vardy.
Uldis and Janis are big on actionable insights, but they also get the stories out as if having a glass of whiskey or wine with a friend. The podcast is great at fusing global developments and stories with the Baltic region, so it’s no wonder The Pursuit of Scrappiness is topping the charts in that part of the world. The podcast aims to inspire and inform listeners in their own (scrappy) pursuit of success.
Launched in 2021, the podcast keeps growing its depth and breadth of conversations, as well as geographic footprint.
Hosts: Uldis Teraudkalns and Janis Zeps
Language: English
URL: https://www.pursuitofscrappiness.co
Runway
Started by the Black Unicorn PR co-founders (us!), the Runway podcast aims to bring you deep conversations and unasked questions with marketing, comms, sales, and other growth experts.
Whether you’re a startup founder or CEO, marketer, or even building a traditional business, we want this to be a place of learning for you. We bring you in-depth interviews with marketing professionals, agency owners, journalists, sales experts and more to equip you with the tools and knowledge you need to grow your business, manage teams, and make better decisions.
Check out episodes from season one released so far, on B2B marketing for startups and scaleups, branding and op-eds. You can subscribe now on Spotify and stay updated with the latest episodes!
Hosts: Julija Jegorova, Mauro Battellini
Language: English
URL: https://www.blackunicornpr.com/category/runway-podcast/
Tech Talks
The Tech Talks podcast, hosted by David Savage, one of the most recognisable podcast hosts in UK tech, features engaging discussions with leaders and innovators from the tech industry. Produced by Nash Squared, Tech Talks explores the real stories behind how tech is transforming our world, covering a broad range of topics from AI to cybersecurity.
Compared to many other startup podcasts, Tech Talks goes the extra mile to include unheard voices and segments from the British startup population, and is essential listening for anyone looking to get a balanced diet in the latest developments in UK tech.
Recent episodes include conversations with Nader AlSalim from Gaia family and Meri Williams from Pleo. David Savage, recognized for his deep understanding of technology and talent markets, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to each episode.
Host: David Savage
Language: English
URL: https://www.tech-talks.co.uk/hosts/dave-savage
EU Startups Podcast
The EU Startups Podcast, hosted by Marcin Lewandowski, holds in-depth conversations with the makers and movers of the European startup ecosystem. Lewandowski, not related to the Polish number 9, brings his startup energy to each episode. The podcast features influential guests such as Nicolas Benady of Swan, Holger Seim of Blinkist, and Jeff Kelisky of Seedrs, providing valuable insights into their journeys and the challenges they have overcome.
Produced by EU-Startups, a leading online publication dedicated to the European startup scene, the podcast covers a wide range of topics from startup funding to innovation trends. Each episode is designed to inspire and inform entrepreneurs, investors, and anyone interested in the dynamic world of startups. Bonus: he also runs turnedVC, at the moment you can find it on YouTube.
Host: Marcin Lewandowski
Language: English
URL: https://www.eu-startups.com/podcast/
EUVC
You guessed it! EUVC is all about the art of VC investing in Europe (or into European startups). Co-hosts David Cruz e Silva and Andreas Munk Holm talk to General Partners (often, founding GPs) to dissect their thinking about startup investment and extract their insights and opinions of the European startup scene.
The guys started in December 2020, and there are now hundreds of episodes. To commend EUVC is that there is a good geographic coverage. The pod has featured VCs from across Europe.
The hosts aim to be contrarian and even provocative to bring deeper insights to the table. The best part is that founders who are fundraising can listen in and get a good idea of how each investor thinks.
By the way, EUVC is more than a pod! The European VC also has a community for investing as a syndicate. Our blog is by no means financial advice, but if you are interested in learning more about investing into startups yourself (yes, you) you can check out their site in more detail.
Hosts: Andreas Munk Holm and David Cruz e Silva
Language: English
URL: https://www.eu.vc/podcast
Startup Europe by Sifted
Since 2024, Startup Europe — The Sifted Podcast features monthly long-form interviews with prominent figures in the European startup scene. Host Amy Lewin talks to founders, operators, and investors about their experiences, challenges, and insights in building tech companies.
Featuring insightful conversations with guests such as Hussein Kanji of Hoxton Ventures and Sriram Krishnan of Andreesen Horowitz, the podcast explores the latest trends, challenges, and success stories in the startup world. Sifted, as a media outlet, focuses on delivering in-depth reporting and analysis on Europe’s tech and startup scene, making the podcast a must-listen for entrepreneurs, investors, and tech enthusiasts looking to stay ahead in the ever-evolving landscape.
Host: Amy Lewin
Language: English
URL: https://podcast.sifted.eu
UKTN – The Podcast
The UKTN Podcast, hosted by seasoned tech journalist Jane Wakefield, provides listeners with insightful conversations with influential figures in the UK tech industry. The podcast is part of UKTN (UK Tech News), a leading media outlet dedicated to covering the latest developments and trends in the UK tech sector. Each episode dives into the journeys of successful entrepreneurs, the challenges they face, and their innovative solutions.
Notable guests include Husayn Kassai, co-founder of Onfido, who shares his insights on how the UK can enhance its startup exit potential, and Molly Johnson-Jones, CEO of Flexa, discussing the future of flexible working.
Host: Jane Wakefield
Language: English
URL: https://www.uktech.news/podcasts
Startuprad.io
Startuprad.io (aka Startup Radio) is your portal into news and insights on the titan of an ecosystem that is DACH, that means Germany, Austria and Switzerland, but also the German-speaking global community. Experienced host Jörn Menninger, also known as Joe, has you covered with in-depth analysis as well as interviews with founders and venture capitalists from the region. All in all, the podcast provides a comprehensive guide to this vibrant startup scene. The startup has received multiple awards, has a commendable reach and has developed into much more than a podcast, with an internet radio station, YouTube vlog and newsletters. Sehhhhrrrr schön!
Host: Jörn ‘Joe’ Menninger
Language: English
URL: https://www.startuprad.io/
The Recursive Podcast
The Recursive podcast is your bi-weekly wander inside the minds of innovation leaders across South Eastern Europe. Every second week, host Irina Obushtarova is joined by a startup building or investment champion (or both), diving deep into their life philosophy, values, leadership style, and personal development.
As well as interviewing some of the most influential and hottest startups and VCs from South Eastern Europe, they also host international guests like Mike Butcher from TechCrunch. Notable guests have included representatives from Payhawk, GapMinder VC, Launchhub Ventures, BrightCap Ventures, and many more. A startups podcast that elevates the region and that we recommend, check them out!
Hosts: Irina Obushtarova
Language: English
URL: https://therecursive.com/podcast/
The Cereal Entrepreneur, by Startups Magazine
Hosted by Anna Wood, Deputy Editor of Startups Magazine, the Cereal Entrepreneur podcast delves into the journeys of startup founders, exploring the challenges they face and their success stories. A startups podcast at heart, it also gives space to leaders from various industries such as Huib Van Bockel, the energy drinks entrepreneur behind TENZING. Recent notable guests also include Sacha Michaud, co-founder of Glovo, the Spanish unicorn.
Host: Anna Wood
Language: English
URL: https://startupsmagazine.co.uk/podcasts
Irish Tech News Podcast
The Irish Tech News Podcast is Ireland’s premier startups podcast. Find in-depth insights and interviews on technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship in Ireland and beyond. Hosted by Ronan Leonard and Simon Cocking, the podcast features engaging conversations with industry leaders from the Celtic Tiger.
Recent notable guests include Nick Bostrom, a philosopher and professor at Oxford University, who delved into AI insights and the implications of artificial intelligence in the modern world and Roman Yampolskiy, an AI safety pioneer, who discussed the existential challenges posed by artificial intelligence. Éirinn go Brách!
Host: Ronan Leonard and Simon Cocking
Language: English
URL: https://irishtechnews.ie/category/podcast/
Made IT Podcast
Made IT is one Italy’s leading startup podcasts, exploring the world of startups and venture capital by telling the stories of founders and investors in a transparent and personal way, uncovering the secrets behind their success.
This startup podcast is hosted by Camilla Scassellati Sforzolini, Managing Director at FGS Global in Los Angeles, and Inès Makula, co-founder of Clemi’s Market. Camilla helps some of the world’s largest companies shape their communication strategies during complex times, while Inès transitioned from nearly a decade in the cosmetics industry to entrepreneurship. Together, they make up an Italian startups podcast dream team.
Throughout the episodes, Camilla and Inès have spoken to some of the biggest and most influential Italian startup founders, VCs, and other ecosystem players. Notable guests include Amy O’Brien from Sifted and Paolo de Nadai from OneDay and WeRoad.
Hosts: Inès Makula and Camilla Scassellati Sforzolini
Language: Italian, sometimes English
URL: https://www.madeitpodcast.it/
Selected – The Sesamers Podcast
The Sesamers podcast, hosted by Ben Constantini, is a startups podcast the views the startup and VC world a bit more from an events lens. Featuring interviews with event CEOs like those from Slush and TechBBQ, journalists, VCs, and other industry leaders, the podcast offers deep insights into tech innovation and sustainable practices.
Sesamers itself is dedicated to connecting people through tech events, fostering a global network of visionaries and disruptors. Each episode aims to inspire, inform, and empower listeners with the strategies driving success in today’s tech landscape.
Hosts: Ben Constantini
Language: English
URL: https://www.sesamers.com/podcast
Did we miss any top European startup podcasts? Let us know on social media (LinkedIn / X) or via email!
Definitive guides by Black Unicorn PR
