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.
Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. You can also subscribe via your favorite podcast app here https://www.nytimes.com/activate-access/audio?source=podcatcher. For more podcasts and narrated articles, download The New York Times app at nytimes.com/app.
Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. You can also subscribe via your favorite podcast app here https://www.nytimes.com/activate-access/audio?source=podcatcher. For more podcasts and narrated articles, download The New York Times app at nytimes.com/app.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 9, 2026 • 34min
The True Cost of Recovering from the LA Wildfires, Part 2
Mike Cohen and Gregory Han, both Wirecutter writers and wildfire survivors, discuss their harrowing experiences recovering from the LA wildfires. They share the crucial lesson of documenting belongings before disaster strikes, which proved essential for insurance claims. Gregory highlights his battle with insurers over contamination claims and remediation costs. Mike opens up about the emotional challenges of losing everything and adjusting to temporary housing. Their insights aim to help others navigate the complexities of insurance and home recovery.
Jan 7, 2026 • 35min
The True Cost of Recovering from the LA Wildfires, Part 1
Join Michael Cohen, a Wirecutter deals writer who lost his home in the Eaton Fire, and Gregory Hahn, a design writer displaced by the same disaster, as they share their harrowing experiences. They discuss the emotional journey of recovery in Altadena, the importance of community ties, and what was lost during the wildfires. Learn about the critical steps to prepare for disasters, including the necessity of early evacuation and the power of neighbor networks. Together, they emphasize how investing in your community can make a difference during emergencies.
Dec 31, 2025 • 35min
Journaling Through Life's Plot Twists with Suleika Jaouad (Encore)
Suleika Jaouad, an author and journalist known for her memoir Between Two Kingdoms, shares how journaling became a lifeline during her leukemia journey. She discusses the transformative power of journaling on mental health, along with practical tips for overcoming writer's block. Joining her is Ariana Vasquez, a product expert who introduces innovative digital notebooks like the reMarkable 2. Together they explore how journaling can spark creativity and provide comfort, offering listeners actionable insights to start and maintain their own practices.
46 snips
Dec 24, 2025 • 21min
What Our Experts Are Giving This Year (Encore)
Discover the best gift recommendations straight from product testing experts! From Yummi taper candles that elevate family meals to a cozy Company Cotton Voile quilt perfect for recovery, there's something for everyone. James suggests gemstone dice for a personal touch, while Amy highlights a nostalgic Swatch watch for kids. Hikers will love the portable Sawyer Squeeze water filtration system, and Brent raves about the Sangean WR-15 radio for clean, ad-free sound. Plus, find out why an Echo Dot is a game-changer in a child's room!
20 snips
Dec 19, 2025 • 13min
Gift Guide 2025: It's Not Too Late to Get Something Great!
Samantha Schoech, senior staff writer on Wirecutter's gifting team, shares her expertise on last-minute gifts. She highlights common pitfalls like panic buying and overspending when shopping at the last minute. Sam suggests thoughtful, budget-friendly options like olive oil and fancy chocolates that can be found at grocery stores. She also recommends subscription gifts for immediate delivery, emphasizing the importance of presentation to make gifts feel special. Tune in for her top picks that ship fast and universally-loved gifts!
80 snips
Dec 17, 2025 • 33min
Tips for Using AI Smarter with Hard Fork's Kevin Roose
Kevin Roose, a New York Times tech columnist and co-host of the Hard Fork podcast, shares insightful strategies for effectively using AI tools like chatbots. He discusses the emotional connections people have developed with AI and its growing presence in everyday life, especially among teenagers. Kevin reveals his favorite chatbots, emphasizing the importance of custom instructions to receive more honest interactions, and explains how AI is transforming online shopping and product discovery. Get ready to optimize your digital experience!
7 snips
Dec 12, 2025 • 18min
Gift Guide 2025: Kids Tell Us What They Want
Get ready for the ultimate gift guide straight from the source: kids! Dior, Robinson, and Chloe share their wish lists packed with unique items like dog toys, Pokemon games, and stylish shoes. Their candid critiques of popular gift picks, including drawing tablets and weighted blankets, provide hilarious insights into what truly delights young shoppers. Discover what’s hot and what’s not this holiday season, as they help you pick gifts guaranteed to be hits and avoid the duds. Tune in for laughter and some surprisingly solid advice!
25 snips
Dec 10, 2025 • 36min
A Game Night Survival Guide
Join James Austin, a Wirecutter staff writer specializing in games and hobbies, for a fun and enlightening discussion on hosting unforgettable game nights. He shares tips on picking the right games for your group vibe, keeping the atmosphere light, and even navigating mixed-age gatherings. Discover kid-friendly options like Rhino Hero and strategic favorites for adults such as Codenames. Plus, learn how to avoid awkward conversations with games designed to keep everyone engaged and entertained!
36 snips
Dec 5, 2025 • 22min
Gift Guide 2025: What to Get the Hardest People On Your List
Hannah Morrill, Wirecutter’s supervising editor for gifts, shares her expertise on selecting perfect presents for hard-to-shop-for loved ones. She discusses thoughtful gift choices by tapping into recent conversations and personal interests. Hannah recommends unique items like custom boat portraits for sailors and personalized Funko Pop figures for crafty sisters. She also highlights quality gifts from heritage brands for unpretentious friends and budget-friendly options for large teams. Plus, discover her new favorite gift picks!
Dec 3, 2025 • 31min
How to Nail the Perfect Cookie with NYT Cooking’s Vaughn Vreeland
Join Vaughn Vreeland, host of NYT Cooking’s Bake Time and cookie guru, as he shares his secrets to baking perfect cookies. Discover essential tools like a silicone spatula and cookie scoop, as well as clever upgrades that enhance your baking. Learn how to troubleshoot common issues like spread and flat cookies, plus tips on reducing sugar without sacrificing texture. Vaughn also reveals surprising savory ingredients, like miso, to elevate your cookie game. Get ready to bake with confidence!
