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
Sep 18, 2025 • 17min
Is the New iPhone Worth It?
Brenda Stolyar, a senior staff writer at Wirecutter, dives into the intricacies of the newly launched iPhone 17 lineup and iOS 26. She reveals that the iPhone Air, Apple's thinnest model yet, comes with trade-offs in durability and battery life. The new zoom camera feature might wow some, but most users won't see major differences in daily shots. Brenda also shares her findings on battery performance, noting that the Air drains faster. Finally, she discusses the exciting updates brought by iOS 26, enhancing the overall experience with a fresh design.
12 snips
Sep 17, 2025 • 31min
Goodbye, Dead Butt Syndrome!
Arriana Vasquez, a home office writer at Wirecutter, shares her expertise on keeping active while working from home. She delves into the health risks of prolonged sitting, likening it to 'the new smoking' and introducing the concept of 'dead butt syndrome.' Arriana discusses practical solutions like movement snacks and effective office gear, including standing desks and walking pads, to combat sedentary lifestyles. Listeners will find actionable advice to enhance their work setups and promote daily movement effortlessly.
18 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 34min
Wirecutter's Guide to Shopping at Trader Joe's
Antara Sinha, an associate staff writer at Wirecutter with a background from Bon Appetit and Food and Wine, dives into the enchanting world of Trader Joe's. She highlights 18 must-try items after tasting over 70, explains how Trader Joe's keeps prices low with clever strategies, and uncovers the reasons behind product disappearances. Antara shares insider tips on maximizing seasonal offerings and finding alternatives at local markets, all while exploring the store's unique charm that keeps shoppers coming back for more.
17 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 16min
Is an E-Bike the Answer to Your Commuting Woes?
Chris Ryan, Senior Editor and bike expert at Wirecutter, delves into the world of e-bikes, showcasing their potential as a smart commuting option. He explains how e-bikes can provide a sweat-free ride and serve as an affordable car alternative. Listeners learn about the vital differences between regular and cargo e-bikes, maintenance quirks, and the importance of purchasing from local bike shops. Chris also warns against the dangers of cheap batteries and emphasizes the need for certified safety components, making it clear that informed choices matter in e-bike ownership.
17 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 31min
Should You Switch to an Electric Toothbrush?
Nancy Redd, a Senior Staff Writer at Wirecutter and bestselling author, delves into the world of toothbrushes and oral health. She highlights the connection between oral care and overall well-being, sharing tips for effective brushing habits. The discussion covers the pros and cons of manual versus electric toothbrushes, emphasizing the importance of a two-minute brush time. Nancy also offers strategies for making dental hygiene fun for kids and suggests alternatives like water flossers for easier oral care. Get ready for a healthier smile!
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!
