Best Late Night Computing Podcasts (2026)

1
The True Cost of Recovering from the LA Wildfires, Part 3 31:50

Play Pause

1d ago31:50

31:50

In the final installment of this series, we examine the longer-term costs–the time, the money, and the emotional toll–that finding your feet after a natural disaster can take. Mike and his family are still displaced. The possibility of a future natural disaster looms over them, on top of the financial predicament of being stuck in the “insurance ga…

1
The True Cost of Recovering from the LA Wildfires, Part 2 34:07

5d ago34:07

34:07

In the second part of our series, we learn more about what’s happened to Wirecutter writers Mike Cohen and Gregory Han in the year since the LA wildfires. And how they both wish they’d better understood their insurance policies before the fires. Mike and Gregory both found temporary housing after the fires, but they soon needed to start replacing t…

1
The True Cost of Recovering from the LA Wildfires, Part 1 35:29

7d ago35:29

35:29

Exactly one year ago, on January 7, 2025, the Palisades and Eaton Fires erupted, eventually burning down more than 16,000 structures and killing at least 31 people, becoming among the most destructive and deadly wildfires in California’s history. Two Wirecutter writers, Gregory Han and Mike Cohen, lived through the Eaton fire. Both lived in Altaden…

1
Journaling Through Life's Plot Twists with Suleika Jaouad (Encore) 35:11

14d ago35:11

35:11

In this episode, our guest is Suleika Jaouad, author of The Book of Alchemy and creator of The Isolation Journals Substack. We delve into how journaling can help you unlock creative potential and navigate life’s challenges. Suleika shares her personal journey with journaling as a lifeline during her battle with leukemia and a pathway to "creative a…

1
What Our Experts Are Giving This Year (Encore) 20:59

21d ago20:59

20:59

In case you missed our bonus episode, we are re-airing it! Wirecutter’s staff tests thousands of products every year, and of that mountain of items a few always stick out as the best of the best. To close out 2025, we asked our experts to share the things they loved most–and what they think would make great holiday gifts. Whether you’re still finis…

1
Gift Guide 2025: It's Not Too Late to Get Something Great! 12:47

26d ago12:47

12:47

It happens every year: the season sneaks up, the calendar fills, and suddenly it’s gift-giving time… and you’ve bought nothing. To help you avoid the panic-buy spiral (and the regrettable “kitchen TV”-style gifts that follow), we brought in Samantha Schoech, senior staff writer on Wirecutter’s gifting team. Sam spends all year researching, testing,…

1
Tips for Using AI Smarter with Hard Fork's Kevin Roose 32:55

28d ago32:55

32:55

Artificial intelligence is fundamentally changing the way people use the internet, gather information, shop online, and interact with products at home. If you’ve ever wondered what chatbots (like Gemini or Claude) are truly good for and how to use them smartly, this episode is essential. Our guest Kevin Roose, a New York Times tech columnist and co…

1
Gift Guide 2025: Kids Tell Us What They Want 18:16

1M ago18:16

18:16

The holidays are here, and that means it's time to tackle the hardest shopping challenge of all: finding the perfect gift(s) for the children in your life. In this episode, we skip the parental guessing games and go straight to the experts! Rosie sits down with three brutally honest critics—Dior (8), Robinson (11), and Chloe (6)—to get the definiti…

1
A Game Night Survival Guide 36:19

1M ago36:19

36:19

When the holidays roll around, many of us romanticize the idea of a cozy game night—only to remember the part where someone has to read the rules, explain them, and keep the vibes going while everyone tries not to flip a table. If you’ve ever sighed at the sight of a board game box (or struggled through a four-hour strategy game you didn’t sign up …

1
Gift Guide 2025: What to Get the Hardest People On Your List 22:06

1M ago22:06

22:06

Gift giving can be challenging when you're shopping for people who seem to already have everything they need (or who are just super hard to please). Hannah Morrill, Wirecutter’s gift editor, walks us through how to approach selecting presents for these trickiest recipients. Hannah also answers listener questions with dozens of specific gift recomme…

1
How to Nail the Perfect Cookie with NYT Cooking’s Vaughn Vreeland 31:24

1M ago31:24

31:24

Holiday baking season is here, and nobody knows how to bake a delicious cookie better than Vaughn Vreeland, host of NYT Cooking’s Bake Time and author of the book, Cookies. In this episode, Vaughn breaks down the gear you actually need, and shares clever fixes for common cookie problems—from his best advice to using browned butter in a recipe to re…

1
Gift Guide 2025: What Our Experts Are Giving This Year 20:57

2M ago20:57

20:57

Wirecutter’s staff tests thousands of products every year, and of that mountain of items a few always stick out as the best of the best. To close out 2025, we asked our experts to share the things they loved most–and what they think would make great holiday gifts. Whether you’re still finishing up your holiday shopping or you’re just here to soak u…

1
Mel Robbins' Expert Advice for Surviving the Holidays With Peace and Sanity 27:29

2M ago27:29

27:29

At Wirecutter, we have tons of advice about the practical side of the holiday season: giving gifts, preparing meals, hosting friends and family. But the emotional side of holiday gatherings can be even tougher. So, we invited Mel Robbins, host of The Mel Robbins Podcast, and author of The Let Them Theory, to walk us through her tools for keeping yo…

1
Secrets to Better Pie Making 34:34

2M ago34:34

34:34

Baking a show-stopping pie for Thanksgiving can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Wirecutter senior staff writer Lesley Stockton, who has baked hundreds of pies and spent years testing kitchen gear, joins us to share her hard-won wisdom—from the best pie plates and rolling pins to foolproof tips for flaky crusts. Lesley explains how to …

1
Shop Secondhand Like a Pro 32:16

2M ago32:16

32:16

Buying used can be a great way to save money and find unique items—but it takes a sharp eye to find the real gems. And you need to be savvy to get a good price, as some vintage furniture and clothing can cost more than new items (and you can’t return them!). In this episode, we talk with Wirecutter senior staff writer Ivy Elrod, who has spent years…

1
Will Tariffs Affect Holiday Shopping? 26:17

2M ago26:17

26:17

Holiday shopping this season may look different than years past, as tariffs gradually increase prices on everything from electronics to kids’ toys. If you usually wait until Black Friday to find deep discounts, you may want to update your strategy this year. Wirecutter’s deputy editor Annemarie Conte joins us to discuss how tariffs are impacting th…

1
How To Be Handier 13:58

2M ago13:58

13:58

If you’ve ever put off a home repair because you didn’t know where to start—or felt overwhelmed by the wall of tools at the hardware store—this episode is for you. In this Wirecutter Show bonus episode, we chat with senior staff writer and tool expert Doug Mahoney, who’s spent years testing everything from screwdrivers to power drills. Doug breaks …

1
Nick Offerman's Guide to Building Things That Last 33:56

3M ago33:56

33:56

Long before Nick Offerman became the mustached, straight-faced Ron Swanson of Parks and Recreation, he was a woodworker. Growing up in Minooka, Illinois, he described his childhood home as “Little House on the Prairie”—a place where everyone made their own things, carefully crafting furniture, clothing, and tools by hand. And as a skilled woodworke…

1
What’s Wrong With Your Computer? 34:15

3M ago34:15

34:15

If your computer has been slowing down or showing its age, you might not need to replace it just yet. Wirecutter senior staff writer Kimber Streams, who covers laptops and accessories, shares practical steps for reviving an old machine—and how to tell when it’s finally time for an upgrade. Kimber explains what causes computers to slow down over tim…

1
Tech Bubbles 1:09:08

3M ago1:09:08

1:09:08

Tonight on GeekNights, we discuss tech bubbles like the Dot-com bubble. Unrelatedly here's a video by Hank Green titled The State of the AI Industry is Freaking Me Out, and a video by Adam Conover titled Sora Proves the AI Bubble Is Going to Burst So Hard. In the news, nearly 7 million Americans marched in defense of democracy, Amazon AWS went down…

1
How to Know What's In Your Drinking Water 31:12

3M ago31:12

31:12

If you’ve ever wondered whether you should filter your drinking water, this is the episode for you. Wirecutter senior staff writer Tim Heffernan, who covers air and water filtration, shares practical steps for deciding whether to filter your water. Tim discusses the most common contaminants you should watch out for, how municipalities filter your d…

1
How To Maximize Credit Card Points for Travel 20:21

3M ago20:21

20:21

This week, we’re exploring how to travel for less, and in this episode we discuss how to smartly augment a travel budget with credit card points. Brian Kelly—founder of The Points Guy and author of How to Win at Travel–pulls back the curtain on exactly how these programs work, the crucial pitfalls to avoid, and the little-known strategies for scori…

1
Secrets to Cheap Travel from NYT’s Frugal Traveler 34:32

3M ago34:32

34:32

This week, we’re exploring how to travel for less. We dive into the best tried-and-true strategies for stretching your travel budget. Elaine Glusac, a longtime travel journalist andThe Frugal Traveler columnist at The New York Times, joins us to share her best money-saving hacks, from timing your flight purchases just right, to negotiating directly…

1
Send Us Your Cookie Questions! 1:04

3M ago1:04

1:04

We’re planning a special episode with Vaughn Vreeland from the NYT Cooking Team all about COOKIES! Vaughn is coming out with a new cookie cookbook in October–so he’s the perfect person to answer your toughest cookie-baking questions. Are you wondering whether certain baking gear is worth the investment? Are you looking for a special cookie that wil…

1
Samin Nosrat's Kitchen Favorites 31:38

3M ago31:38

31:38

Chef and cookbook author Samin Nosrat, best known for Salt Fat Acid Heat, joins us to talk about her new book Good Things—and how she keeps cooking joyful, even in a small home kitchen. She shares the tools she relies on daily, the condiments that transform simple meals, and her approach to entertaining without burning out. This episode covers: How…

1
This Travel Device Could Save Your Life 18:06

4M ago18:06

18:06

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can seep from any fuel-burning appliance. If undetected, it can also be a silent killer–which is why most experts consider it crucial to have a CO detector in your home. Yet, many hotels, motels, and vacation houses aren’t required to have CO detectors. While the risk of CO poisoning on a trip is lo…

1
The Insider's Guide to Better Bed Sheets (Encore) 39:27

4M ago39:27

39:27

This week, we get nerdy about sheets—why you might be unhappy with your current set, how to pick ones you’ll actually love, and the marketing scams to avoid. Jackie Reeve, Wirecutter’s in-house sheets expert, enlightens us on everything you need to know to invest in a great set you’ll be happy with for years. This episode covers: Percale vs sateen:…

1
Fitness Tech 1:02:23

4M ago1:02:23

1:02:23

Tonight on GeekNights, we discuss fitness tech like heart rate monitors and Strava and Dance Dance Revolution. In the news, Tik Tok has a dubious deal to keep operating in the US and the regime has plans for the algorithm. Also go see Perfect Blue remastered while you can. And read The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay. Related Links Forum Thre…

1
Is the New iPhone Worth It? 16:43

4M ago16:43

16:43

Apple’s September iPhone event usually comes and goes with only minor tweaks to the lineup. This year feels a little different. Alongside the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max, Apple unveiled its first-ever iPhone Air—a super-thin model that promises Pro-level features without the massive price tag. In this bonus episode, Christine talks with senio…

1
Goodbye, Dead Butt Syndrome! 31:24

4M ago31:24

31:24

You’ve likely heard the adage that "sitting is the new smoking." Basically, that sitting all day at work or elsewhere is one of the most harmful things you can do for your health. But is it really all that bad? In this episode, we talk with Molly Mirhashem, an editor from the New York Times Well Desk, about the health risks of being too sedentary, …

1
Wirecutter's Guide to Shopping at Trader Joe's 34:22

4M ago34:22

34:22

Trader Joe’s is more than a grocery store; it’s a cultural phenomenon with a fiercely loyal fan base. But with shelves full of ever-changing products, which ones are actually worth the hype? In this episode, associate staff writer Antara Sinha on the kitchen team shares Wirecutter’s picks for the 18 best Trader Joe’s items, explains how TJ’s keeps …

1
Specific Mice 1:02:25

4M ago1:02:25

1:02:25

Tonight on GeekNights, we talk about specific mice. Mice we've used over the years, since the days of balls. In the news, Google dodges consequences in the US but not in the EU, Google is sued yet again for their advertising monopoly, and Google is looking to flood the phone lines of tiny businesses. Related Links Forum Thread Specific Mice Discord…

1
Is an E-Bike the Answer to Your Commuting Woes? 15:36

4M ago15:36

15:36

Fall can be bittersweet—you may be coming home from vacation and settling back into your routines, but you also want to soak up the last of the warm weather before the winter comes. An e-bike might seem like a tempting compromise for an affordable, but adventurous and outdoorsy commute. In this bonus episode, Wirecutter Senior Editor and bike exper…

1
Should You Switch to an Electric Toothbrush? 31:01

4M ago31:01

31:01

Oral health is about more than just a pretty smile; it's also connected to your overall health and well-being. In this episode, senior staff writer and toothbrush fanatic Nancy Redd explains how to brush properly, whether a manual or electric toothbrush is right for you, and how to find the best toothbrush for your family, no matter the budget. She…

1
Yes, the World Is Actually Too Loud (Encore) 37:41

5M ago37:41

37:41

More than 100 million Americans are exposed to unhealthy levels of noise daily. To help you protect yourself and those you love, we’re re-airing this episode on how to determine if you’re at risk of hearing loss and what you can do about it. Lauren Dragan, Wirecutter’s longtime senior writer covering headphones and audio equipment, walks us through…

1
Video Chat and Teleconferencing 1:01:54

5M ago1:01:54

1:01:54

Tonight on GeekNights, we talk about the modern marvel that is video chat. In the news, Perplexity is using undeclared crawlers to scrape content, Samsung has a crazy Micro LED TV, real life ad block is possible, and Trump is forming the American SS. The next GeekNights Book Club book will be The Running Man, by Richard Backman, who you may know be…

1
The Bidet Episode 34:18

5M ago34:18

34:18

Using a bidet may seem a little intimidating to some, but to others it's a way of life. In this episode, senior staff writer and bidet-convert Doug Mahoney explains why these modern fixtures that wash your bum are a game-changer for hygiene. He shares how they work, what to look for when buying one, and his top recommendations for every budget. Thi…

1
Are Your Smart Devices Really Spying on You? 35:54

5M ago35:54

35:54

If you’ve ever suspected your smart devices are spying on you, you’re right. In this episode, Jon Chase, Wirecutter's supervising editor for smart home coverage, reveals how even everyday devices you may not consider "smart" are monitoring you. They’re collecting data to build a profile that can then be sold to the highest bidder. The conversation …

1
Computer Audio Interfaces 1:09:44

5M ago1:09:44

1:09:44

Tonight on GeekNights, we discuss audio interfaces. Rym uses a PreSonus Studio 1810c to record GeekNights, and as his general purpose "sound card" in the studio. In the news, the CEO of GitHub steps down, you can consider Forgejo if that worries you, Reddit will block the Internet Archive, and Trump illegally forces the National Guard to deploy to …

1
How to Build an Emergency Kit (Encore) 40:13

5M ago40:13

40:13

Natural disasters are becoming more intense and unpredictable. To help you prepare, we’re re-airing this episode on how to build a disaster kit. Wirecutter also just published a handy tool to help you customize an emergency kit specific to your needs, an article on preparing a disaster pantry, and guidance on choosing a generator. In this episode, …

1
Life's Too Short for Bad Olive Oil 34:39

6M ago34:39

34:39

This episode, senior kitchen writer Michael Sullivan demystifies all things olive oil. He shares how to navigate the overwhelming olive oil aisle, what “extra virgin” really means, and the best way to store this kitchen staple so it will stay fresh (and won’t go rancid). Whether you're an olive oil aficionado or just looking to improve your everyda…

1
How to Get Rid of Ants and Roaches for Good 33:24

6M ago33:24

33:24

Tired of creepy crawlies? Wirecutter's pest expert Doug Mahoney reveals the right way to tackle ant and roach infestations. He offers practical advice and debunks common myths (for example, cockroaches aren’t actually the most radiation-resistant insects!). Doug's 4-Step Pest Control Plan: Observe & Identify: Know your enemy! Find their entry point…

1
Journaling Through Life's Plot Twists with Suleika Jaouad 36:41

6M ago36:41

36:41

In this episode, our guest is Suleika Jaouad, author of The Book of Alchemy and creator of The Isolation Journals Substack. We delve into how journaling can help you unlock creative potential and navigate life’s challenges. Suleika shares her personal journey with journaling as a lifeline during her battle with leukemia and a pathway to "creative a…

1
Why there's no big tech news 54:48

6M ago54:48

54:48

Tonight on GeekNights, we consider why there, broadly, aren't major consumer technology developments lately. In the news, Debian reduces support for i386 and Chrome OS is combining with Android. Also we'll be live at PAX West! Related Links Forum Thread Why there's no big tech news Discord Chat Why there's no big tech news Bluesky Post Why there's …

1
Summer Taste Test Extravaganza! 31:26

6M ago31:26

31:26

Nothing says summer like ketchup, chips, and ice cream. In this taste test special, we take a field trip to the Wirecutter test kitchen to sample these items alongside staff experts Antara Sinha, Rachel Wharton and Marguerite Preston—sharing top picks and behind-the-scenes testing moments. Check out a video version of this episode on YouTube! Produ…

1
Packable Beach and Picnic Recipes 15:10

6M ago15:10

15:10

Tanya Sichynsky, an editor for New York Times Food and Cooking sections, and editor of The Veggie newsletter, shares her ideas for the best hot-weather-friendly foods to pack for the beach, a picnic, or any outdoor adventure. Plus, surprising hacks for keeping them cool. If you missed our prior episode on beach gear, go back and listen for tips on …

1
A Day At The Beach 28:03

7M ago28:03

28:03

It’s officially beach season. Staff writer Kit Dillion shares his favorite gear to make any beach day, picnic, or pool adventure better, from shelters to chairs to coolers. It’s all about elevating your day in the sun. Products we recommend: Best versatile weather beach shelter: Sun Ninja Tent 4 Person Best beach shade shelter for steady wind: Shib…

1
Blinky Lights 59:09

7M ago59:09

59:09

Tonight on GeekNights, we consider the blinky lights and LEDs the kids are putting on everything including their computers. In the news, Windows 10 has extended security support, Broadcom is desperate to monetize VMware, and the EU forced Apple to comply, at least in the EU. Related Links Forum Thread Blinky Lights Discord Chat Blinky Lights Bluesk…

1
Can You Really Disappear Online? 34:37

7M ago34:37

34:37

Is it even possible to disappear from the internet? Wirecutter writer Max Eddy explains how he tried to do it, why it’s so hard, and what steps you can take to take control of the information that’s out there. Plus, some of the surprising sentimental hurdles he had to overcome during this project. Things we recommend: Find websites that have expose…

1
Toilets and Bidets and Washlets 58:13

7M ago58:13

58:13

Tonight on GeekNights, we consider toilets, washlets, and bidets. (Oh my). In the news, some context on the current Iran conflict, and Apple WWDC25 was mostly uneventful other than keeping old devices going for a while yet. Related Links Forum Thread Toilets and Bidets and Washlets Discord Chat Toilets and Bidets and Washlets Bluesky Post Toilets a…