Being part of the tech world can feel like you’re in an information whirlwind. Changes and innovations in technology happen faster than any one person can keep up with. And that’s not to mention the time needed to ponder wider implications facing the tech industry, like how technology is changing our society as a whole. Simply put, there’s a lot to consider and talk through when it comes to technology matters.
While you don’t need to understand the finer points of every subject tangentially related to technology to hold your own in this field, it doesn’t hurt to stay up to date on the latest news and deep-diving discussions in order to stay informed. That’s where podcasts can be a huge help.
It's a perfect way to keep you in the loop about all things technology without forcing you to give up too much of your precious time. Get started by adding some of our favorite tech podcasts to your listening routine.
22 Playlist-worthy tech podcasts worth checking out
Whether you listen in the car, on a jog or while cooking dinner, subscribing to the hottest technology podcasts is the best way to stay in the know. Consider adding these ones to your playlist.
1. The Daily Charge
CNET reporters led by Roger Cheng host this podcast roundup of each day’s top tech stories. In fifteen minutes or fewer, you’ll have all the details on the latest tech news, from reviews of new devices to data breaches and company buyouts. Their friendly rapport and get-to-business attitude will make your daily dose of tech news an enjoyable treat rather than a chore.
Start here: Using Tech to Better Combat Raging Wildfires
2. This Week in Tech (TWiT)
This Week in Tech, a variety-style news show, records live every Sunday with a rotating cast of tech experts. The roundtable format and multiple hosts ensure that you not only know what’s new in tech, but are also exposed to a range of opinions about what’s good, what’s bad and what direction tech could go in tomorrow. Settle in for a two-hour discussion that leaves your mind spinning with ideas about the current state of technology.
Start here: The Great Firewall of America
3. TechStuff
TechStuff, a podcast from the folks at HowStuffWorks, focuses on technology through the years, the people who have built the digital age we live in now and how all this technology is shaping our culture. If you’re constantly pondering the larger implications of the tech industry, these deep dives into technology’s impact on daily life is right up your alley.
Start here: Computer-Generated Communication
4. Security Now
Cybersecurity geeks won’t be able to resist the Security Now podcast. Your host is Steve Gibson, the person who coined the term “spyware” and created the first anti-spyware program. Needless to say, he knows his way around cybersecurity. This weekly podcast gives you the latest happenings in the world of cybercrime so you can understand what’s happening in the tech world at large—and prevent your own security breaches.
Start here: I Know What You Did Last Summer
5. Future Thinkers
Cohosts Mike and Euvie tie together themes of cutting-edge technology, society and exploring our inner consciousness in this philosophically-minded podcast. Listeners are treated to interviews with tech experts, scientists and entrepreneurs as Future Thinkers pushes you to explore how evolving technology affects everything from your relationships to the very foundations of our global society.
Start here: Do We See Reality as It Is? with Donald Hoffman
6. Learn to Code with Me
Self-taught coder Laurence Bradford gives listeners resources and interviews to support them on their journey as they learn to code. With a strong emphasis on the importance of education and the opportunities that tech jobs can open up for others, Learn to Code with Me provides a roundup of tools and stories from real-life coders to encourage beginners as they expand their coding skills.
Start here: From Newbie Coder to Google Software Engineer in Just 6 Months with Clement Mihailescu
7. Talk Python to Me
Host Michael Kennedy digs deep into all things Python and related topics, including expert interviews, how Python is evolving and how this coding language is being used in different sectors of the tech industry. The content may be programming-heavy, but Talk Python to Me keeps it light with easygoing conversations and plenty of humor.
Start here: Python and AI in Journalism
8. Front-End Happy Hour
This drink-themed happy hour podcast features a panel of engineers from Netflix, Evernote, LinkedIn and more sharing good-natured conversation about front-end development. The easygoing format of each episode will have you feeling more like you’re relaxing on a rooftop patio with friends than expanding your tech know-how, making this podcast the perfect go-to for front-end engineers looking to increase their skills after hours.
Start here: Whiteboarding for Our Drinks: The Coding Interview
9. a16z Podcast
The a16z Podcast is produced by a venture capital firm located in the heart of Silicon Valley, which makes this podcast one to follow for all things tech trends. Listeners hear from a mixture of industry experts and business leaders as the podcast digs into what’s coming for the future of tech and how recent news affects the industry on the day-to-day.
Start here: Designing a Culture of Reinvention
10. TEDTalks Technology
The TEDTalks Technology podcast never fails to deliver innovative, inspirational content from the world’s leading experts in technology. No matter where your technology interests lie, this podcast is sure to have something for you. Learn about topics such as what AI is (and isn’t), the unintended consequences of technology and the moral dilemmas of driverless cars.
Start here: Why You Should Get Paid for Your Data
11. The Indie Hackers Podcast
Most people assume hackers are up to no good, but many of them are putting their skills to work! Host Courtland Allen interviews indie hackers who are turning their know-how into thriving side hustles and full-blown businesses. If you’ve ever dreamed of having your own tech business, The Indie Hackers Podcast will keep you inspired and informed about what it takes to escape the nine-to-five.
Start here: The Most Sensible Debate on Hustle Culture and Work-Life Balance
12. Tiny Tech Radio
Not all technology is grandiose! The Tiny Tech Radio podcast is for those interested in the science and technology of the very small, from nanostructures and bacteria to 3D nanoprinting at the molecular level. Get ready to enhance your tech knowledge by thinking small!
Start here: Nanotube Recycling of Electronic Waste
13. Accidental Tech Podcast
On the Accidental Tech Podcast, three self-described nerds join together to discuss programming and the latest news and trends at big-tech companies. Thanks to friendly preshow banter, you’ll feel like you’re one of the crew as this group keeps you in the know about the latest tech happenings. The hosts also answer at least one listener question each episode—maybe yours could be one of them!
Start here: We Can’t Wait to See What You Do to It
14. Clockwise
The Clockwise podcast is aptly named. The hosts never let things run more than 30 minutes—but they fit plenty of tech info into that short time frame. These rapid-fire conversations cover four tech topics per episode and are perfect for the tech-lover who’s short on time.
Start here: My Default Mode Is Skepticism
15. The Future of Everything
This Wall Street Journal podcast dives deep into the ways technology is shaping our future, both for better and for worse. Tune in to The Future of Everything to hear leading experts share their take on what technology has in store for us.
Start here: The Blood of the Future Could Be Made in a Lab
16. Darknet Diaries
Featuring “true stories from the dark side of the internet,” Darknet Diaries has you covered if you have an interest in the less-than-upstanding happenings related to technology. Data breaches? Check. Hacktivism? Check. Cybercrime? Check. Consider this your one-stop-shop for info on the criminal underbelly of the internet.
Start here: Human Hacker
17. Unconfirmed
If you’re fascinated by Bitcoin, and maybe even own some cryptocurrency yourself, this is the podcast for you. Unconfirmed is hosted by cryptocurrency/blockchain journalist Laura Shin and features interviews with top experts in the world of cryptocurrency. Listen in for the latest crypto news and pro insights on what may be coming in the future.
Start here: The First Crypto Bank: What Kraken Financial Will Do and How
18. Land of the Giants
Gear up for this narrative podcast that explores how tech giants have changed the world. Season one details how Amazon became the tech superpower it is today, while season two focuses on Netflix (and begs the question: Did Netflix really kill Blockbuster Video?) Press play on Land of the Giants for a bird’s-eye-view of how big tech takes off.
Start here: Why You’ll Never Quit Amazon Prime
19. CodeNewbie
The CodeNewbie podcast is an encouraging space for aspiring and beginner coders. You’ll hear accessible, real-life stories from others on their coding journeys. Whether you’re looking for tips and advice or simply want a reminder that everyone was once a beginner, this is the podcast for you.
Start here: How Newbies Can Contribute to Open Source
20. In Machines We Trust
This podcast from MIT Technology Review is “a show about the automation of everything.” Whether you work in artificial intelligence or you’re just curious about the inner workings of AI, In Machines We Trust will keep you in the loop on this rapidly expanding facet of the tech industry.
Start here: What Happens in Vegas ... Is Captured on Camera
21. This Is Only a Test
This podcast from Adam Savage’s Tested marries technology with fandoms. Hosts break down the latest tech news from big players like Facebook, Apple and Google, while also sharing the latest from popular fandoms. Do you want to learn about brain-machine interfaces and how it relates to Mario Kart? This Is Only a Test is the multifaceted podcast for you.
Start here: Episode 563: Cabinet Battle
22. DataTalk
The DataTalk podcast by Experian connects listeners with leading data scientists from around the world to hear their expert opinions on all things data and analytics. Host Mike Delgado keeps things real by connecting each episode to current events that impact all of us, including topics like racial equity in the workplace, educating the next generation of data pros and collaborating with a remote team during COVID-19.
Start here: Steps for Combating Racism and Bias in Artificial Intelligence with Renée Cummings
Got your earbuds ready?
Now that you’ve got your podcast app full of smart tech podcasts, you’re well on your way to keeping up with the latest in the tech industry—and that’s no small feat!
If you’re considering turning an interest in technology into a full-fledged career, know that you have a lot of potential careers to explore. If you’re looking for a little help with that, get started with our article, “17 Computer Careers for Self-Proclaimed ‘Tech Geeks’."
