APPROACHING PODCASTS AS A LEARNING TOOL FOR IMPROVING LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES

This article aims to analyze how team leadership competencies can be developed and optimized through a non-formal learning tool: podcasts. The study takes as its starting point the podcast series Teamology, which explores current topics related to team functioning, the role of the leader, decision-making, conflict management and adaptability in complex organizational contexts. In an era marked by uncertainty, remote work and cultural diversity, leaders need to adopt flexible practices and acquire accessible, applicable and authentic learning sources. The paper starts from the premise that podcasts can become a valuable educational resource for developing leadership competencies, by exposing listeners to real experiences, diverse perspectives and concrete solutions. From a methodological viewpoint, the research is qualitative and is based on the content analysis of eight representative episodes of the Teamology series, selected on the basis of thematic criteria. The analysis aimed to extract and interpret the essential team leadership competencies, the strategies presented by the guests and how they can be applied in practice, within modern teams. The results highlight that podcasts provide an authentic and accessible narrative framework that facilitates learning through reflection, emotional connection and immediate applicability. Recurring themes, such as clear communication, psychological safety, trust and distributed leadership, are presented in a practical, easy to understand and adaptable way to various contexts. The paper thus highlights the value of podcasts as a support in the formation of effective leaders and offers recommendations for their use in educational and organizational environments. Article History: Received: July 15, 2025; Reviewed: November 25, 2025; Accepted: December 8, 2025; Available online: December 18, 2025. JEL classification: M12, M10.