The Wirecutter Show
The New York Times
The Wirecutter Show is a podcast offering expert advice on everyday products that will make your life better. Each week, co-hosts Christine Cyr Clisset and Caira Blackwell, alongside producer Rosie Guerin, speak with Wirecutter’s best-in-class journalists and other expert guests for actionable advice, surprising life hacks, and delightful product discoveries. From which stand-mixer will last you a lifetime, to the best way to travel with pets, to figuring out if your smart lock is spying on you, The Wirecutter Show gives you straightforward solutions based on years of rigorous and independent product testing by more than 140 Wirecutter journalists.
Episodes
Mentioned books
16 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 38min
Yes, the World Is Actually Too Loud (Encore)
Lauren Dragan, a senior staff writer at Wirecutter covering audio equipment, dives into the pervasive issue of noise pollution affecting over 100 million Americans. She discusses the health risks linked to excessive noise and offers tips on how to monitor your exposure using apps and devices. Lauren shares her favorite headphones and earplugs for various situations, emphasizing protection for all ages. The episode wraps up with practical strategies for reducing noise at home, during commutes, and at events, enhancing overall well-being.
47 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 34min
The Bidet Episode
Doug Mahoney, a seasoned senior staff writer at Wirecutter, shares his journey from bidet skeptic to enthusiastic advocate after testing nearly 30 models. He discusses the differences between cold and warm-water bidets, highlighting installation tips for each. Doug explains why reliable brands matter and how bidets can benefit everyone, particularly those with mobility challenges. He also dives into the funny history of bidets while wrapping up with budget-friendly recommendations, proving that these fixtures are both practical and transformative.
21 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 36min
Are Your Smart Devices Really Spying on You?
Jon Chase, supervising editor at Wirecutter and seasoned tech writer, dives into the world of smart devices and their hidden data collection practices. He reveals how even simple gadgets gather personal information to create detailed user profiles, often sold to the highest bidder. Chase discusses the unsettling role of smart TVs using automatic content recognition to monitor user activity. He shares actionable tips to help listeners safeguard their data, highlighting the balance between convenience and privacy in our increasingly connected homes.
24 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 40min
How to Build an Emergency Kit (Encore)
Harry Sawyers joins the conversation as a senior editor at Wirecutter, specializing in emergency preparedness. He shares crucial insights on building an effective disaster kit tailored to specific family needs. Topics include essential supplies like water filtration and communication tools, alongside creative items such as solar lanterns and folding saws. Harry emphasizes the growing unpredictability of natural disasters, urging listeners to personalize their emergency plans. With practical advice and humor, he makes preparedness accessible and essential.
32 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 35min
Life's Too Short for Bad Olive Oil
Michael Sullivan, Senior Staff Writer on the kitchen team at Wirecutter, dives into the fascinating world of olive oil. He reveals how to navigate the olive oil aisle and what "extra virgin" really means. Listeners learn to spot rancid oils, the importance of proper storage away from heat and light, and how country of origin isn't the sole indicator of quality. Michael also shares the critical factors that keep olive oil fresh and offers tips for finding the perfect bottle. This episode is a must-listen for culinary enthusiasts!
16 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 33min
How to Get Rid of Ants and Roaches for Good
Doug Mahoney, Wirecutter's senior staff writer specializing in pest management, shares his expertise on battling ant and roach infestations. He reveals his 4-Step Pest Control Plan, emphasizing the importance of observing pests, cleaning up food sources, sealing entry points, and utilizing effective baits. Doug debunks myths about pest resilience and advises against quick-fix solutions like bug bombs. His engaging anecdotes and practical tips make pest control seem less daunting and even a bit entertaining!
28 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 37min
Journaling Through Life's Plot Twists with Suleika Jaouad
Suleika Jaouad, author of The Book of Alchemy and creator of The Isolation Journals Substack, shares her profound journey with journaling as a lifeline during her fight with leukemia. She highlights how journaling unlocks creativity and supports mental health, transforming life’s challenges into meaningful expression. Practical tips abound, from overcoming the blank page fear to her ritual of using a fountain pen. Plus, insights into digital notebooks reveal how they modernize journaling while keeping the tactile experience intact.
20 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 31min
Summer Taste Test Extravaganza!
Antara Sinha, a ketchup aficionado and writer on Wirecutter's kitchen team, joins Rachel Wharton, a food studies expert and an appliance team senior staff writer, for a flavorful journey. They experiment with 13 supermarket ketchups, revealing unexpected preferences and exploring ketchup's cultural history. The pair also taste-test various potato chips, highlighting surprising winners, and savor ice cream sandwiches, including delightful non-dairy options. Get ready for a fun and delicious summer taste test!
17 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 15min
Packable Beach and Picnic Recipes
Tanya Sichynsky, an editor for New York Times Food and Cooking and The Veggie newsletter, shares mouthwatering ideas for packing hot-weather-friendly foods. She offers easy recipes like Chickpea Salad, Vegan Mayo, and Ham and Jam Sandwich for your next beach or picnic. Tanya also discusses clever hacks to keep your snacks cool and avoids soggy items. Plus, tune in for thrilling snack ideas, from vegan cheesy popcorn to refreshing frozen grapes. Get ready to elevate your outdoor eating game!
Jul 2, 2025 • 28min
A Day At The Beach
Kit Dillon, a senior staff writer on Wirecutter's travel and outdoors team, shares his beach gear expertise honed through field tests in Hawaii. He discusses essentials like versatile shelters, top coolers, and comfortable beach chairs. The conversation highlights innovative designs such as the Shibumi Shade and durable options like the Yeti cooler. Kit also emphasizes the importance of investing in quality gear for a successful beach day while offering tips on selecting the perfect beach chair to enhance comfort and convenience.
