

VS Code Insiders Podcast
Microsoft
Go beyond the changelog with VS Code Insiders Podcast, the official podcast from the Visual Studio Code team. Each episode pulls back the curtain on the latest features, design decisions, and engineering challenges behind one of the world’s most beloved code editors.
Join us as we sit down with the developers, product managers, and community contributors shaping the future of software development. From deep dives into new extensions and experimental tooling to candid conversations about where coding is headed, VS Code Insiders Podcast is your backstage pass to the evolution of modern development.
Whether you're a seasoned dev, a curious tinkerer, or just obsessed with clean commits and clever workflows—this is your space to stay informed, inspired, and in the loop.
Join us as we sit down with the developers, product managers, and community contributors shaping the future of software development. From deep dives into new extensions and experimental tooling to candid conversations about where coding is headed, VS Code Insiders Podcast is your backstage pass to the evolution of modern development.
Whether you're a seasoned dev, a curious tinkerer, or just obsessed with clean commits and clever workflows—this is your space to stay informed, inspired, and in the loop.
Episodes
Mentioned books

29 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 27min
Mastering Chat Modes in VS Code with Burke Holland
Burke Holland, a developer renowned for creating Beast Mode, delves into the fascinating world of custom chat modes in VS Code. He explains how these modes evolve to optimize developer tasks and increase model agency, specifically in GPT-4.1. Burke walks through the structure of chat mode files, automating repetitive workflows, and using Beast Mode to enforce internet utilization. He shares tips on refining output formats and customizing modes to fit specific workflows, making development more efficient and enjoyable.

19 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 26min
Building agent memory for VS Code with Harald Kirschner
Harald Kirschner, a Program Manager on the VS Code team, dives into the exciting world of AI features and customization. He explains how custom instructions, prompts, and chat modes can enhance productivity. Harald discusses building agent memory as an extension, which simplifies workflow and keeps repositories tidy. With insights on proposed APIs for VS Code, he emphasizes the importance of tailored development environments and invites listeners to try his new extension while sharing feedback. A must-listen for developers interested in AI integration!

10 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 23min
Impact of AI on How We Learn to Code with Scott Tolinski
Scott Tolinski, a developer educator and creator of Level Up Tutorials, discusses the evolving landscape of coding education. He reflects on his journey from traditional learning methods to the rise of screencasts. The conversation dives into the dual impact of AI on coding, enhancing problem-solving but also challenging users to maintain deep knowledge. Scott emphasizes gradual integration of AI in learning and offers strategies for educators to clarify AI’s use while ensuring it complements traditional methods.

Sep 29, 2025 • 23min
The Origins & Evolution of the GitHub MCP Registry
In this discussion, Toby Padilla, Principal Product Manager at GitHub, sheds light on the Model Context Protocol (MCP) and its significance in enhancing workflows across various platforms. He explains how MCP servers enable tools like GitHub and Playwright to interact seamlessly. Toby also delves into the importance of the GitHub MCP registry for standardization and discovery, the vision for an open-source canonical registry, and enterprise governance issues surrounding private MCP servers. Tune in for an insightful look into the future of tool integration!

Sep 22, 2025 • 22min
The Future of Coding Agents in VS Code
Brigit and Josh join the podcast to talk about the latest enhancements to coding agents, aka background tasks, aka background agents in VS Code. They break down why you would use them, how to use them, and their future.
Follow VS Code:
X: https://x.com/code
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/vscode.dev
YouTube: https://youtube.com/code
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/104107263
GitHub: https://github.com/microsoft/vscode
Special Guests: Brigit Murtaugh and Josh Spicer.Links:Sharp SolarizedCopilot Coding Agent docsv1.104 Updates for coding agentGitHub Pull Requests Extension

Sep 15, 2025 • 26min
Life of a VS Code SWE Intern with Christy Nguyen
Christy Nguyen, a rising junior from the University of Washington, shares her inspiring journey to becoming a VS Code software engineering intern. She details how she secured her internship and the development of the highly-requested Git worktree support feature. Christy also dives into her experience with mentorship, team dynamics, and the balance between remote and in-office collaboration. She offers valuable insights on using AI tools in development and encourages others to contribute to open source projects.

Sep 8, 2025 • 17min
Language Model Chat Provider (aka BYOK) API with Logan Ramos
Logan Ramos, a Senior Software Engineer on the VS Code team, dives into the innovative Bring Your Own Key (BYOK) feature, allowing users to configure various language models. He unpacks the trade-offs between cloud and local models regarding privacy and performance. Logan explains the new extensible API that permits model providers to create marketplace extensions. Additionally, he shares insights on early adopter feedback and the team's ‘dogfooding’ experiences, revealing how they’re refining model selection for users.

10 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 58min
Building a MCP to Build VS Code & The Impact of AI on Kent C. Dodds
Kent C. Dodds, a full-time educator specializing in testing and AI, joins Tyler Leonhardt, a developer from the VS Code team. They discuss the latest advancements in Model Control Protocol (MCP) authentication and how it’s shaping developer experiences. Kent shares insights on integrating AI into programming education and the evolving landscape of tools that enhance learning. Their conversation also touches on the impact of conferences in fostering community and innovation, marking a dynamic shift in product engineering.

Aug 25, 2025 • 31min
Iteration Plan for August & Re-writing Terminal Tools
Join VS Code engineer Daniel Imms as he shares behind-the-scenes insights into the upcoming August features for VS Code. Discover how community feedback shapes the development process and learn about significant terminal enhancements, including Copilot Chat integration and automatic approval settings. Daniel dives into the collaborative approach that ensures user-friendly updates while emphasizing security and functionality. Don't miss these exciting changes that could revolutionize your coding experience!

11 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 19min
Hello GPT-5 & GPT-5 mini
The podcast dives deep into the exciting features of GPT-5 and GPT-5 mini, unveiling their transformative impact on development in Visual Studio Code. Listeners learn about advanced task management and the flexibility of handling multiple chat workflows. The new 'beast mode' enhances interaction with coding agents, while the introduction of auto-approval mode streamlines tool management. With these updates, developers can look forward to improved project management and a host of new capabilities to elevate their coding experience.