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
36 snips
Nov 24, 2025 • 29min
Taming AI Assisted Coding Models with Eleanor Berger
Eleanor Berger, an AI engineering consultant and creator of the Elite AI-assisted coding course, shares her insights on AI-assisted coding. She discusses the importance of delegating tasks to background agents and crafting precise specifications to avoid errors. Eleanor highlights tools like Copilot and GitHub Actions for automation and explains how to manage different LLM personalities effectively. She also introduces her open-source Ruler project, designed for centralizing AI rules and improving coding workflows. Expect practical tips for integrating AI in your coding practices!
10 snips
Nov 17, 2025 • 29min
Designing for Everyone: Accessibility in VS Code with Megan Rogge
Megan Rogge, a software engineer on the VS Code team, specializes in accessibility and advocates for inclusive design. She discusses how personal health experiences shape her commitment to making VS Code usable for everyone. Discover the intricate features designed for screen readers and non-visual use, from accessibility dialogues to sound signals. Megan also emphasizes the importance of community feedback in shaping accessibility, and she encourages developers to embrace tools that enhance inclusivity in their projects.
32 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 45min
Beyond the Keynote: VS Code at GitHub Universe 2025
In this engaging discussion, Pierce Bogan, a key member of the VS Code team, dives into the exciting evolution of VS Code as an AI-native editor. He details how AI and agent-driven workflows are reshaping coding practices, enhancing tools like Copilot, and streamlining collaboration. Listeners will be intrigued by insights on open-sourcing the Copilot chat extension, the concept of plan mode for workflow management, and how custom agents can improve development efficiency. Pierce also emphasizes the importance of integrating these tools into everyday coding environments.
19 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 23min
Behind the Scenes of VS Code’s Planning Agent with Bhavya U
Bhavya U, a software engineer on the VS Code team, shares her insights on the innovative planning agent. She differentiates between ToDos and planning mode, explaining when to use each for effective task management. Listeners will learn how the planning agent enhances continuity with real-time feedback and why follow-up questions matter. Bhavya also discusses best practices for prompting and customizing agents, highlighting the benefits of saving plans and regularly engaging in team planning for improved outcomes.
9 snips
Oct 27, 2025 • 26min
Building & Scaling Open Source Communities with Steve Francia
Steve Francia, an accomplished open source maintainer known for creating Hugo and Cobra, discusses the intricacies of building and scaling open source communities. He shares insights on mentorship, the necessity of letting projects evolve, and strategies to encourage contributor engagement. Steve emphasizes the importance of diverse contributions beyond code, including documentation and marketing. He also explores the impact of AI on open source, expressing excitement about how AI can enhance developer experiences and streamline workflows.
39 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.
29 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
