In an era where artificial intelligence is reshaping everything from how we work to how we think, keeping your knowledge fresh can feel like a full-time job. So how do you stay ahead without drowning in technical papers or overwhelming news cycles? The answer lies in one of the most human and accessible mediums: podcasts.
Whether you’re commuting, cooking, or taking a walk, the best AI podcasts offer a convenient yet deep dive into the topics that matter—from machine learning and ethics to real-world applications and future-gazing. We’ve done the hard work for you.
After tuning into countless episodes, we’ve curated a list of the most insightful, engaging, and valuable AI podcasts that will keep you informed, inspired, and connected to the pulse of AI innovation.
Why Listen to AI Podcasts?
Podcasts do more than just help you pass the time. They open doors to conversations with some of the brightest minds in AI—researchers, entrepreneurs, ethicists, and developers—who share their expertise, stories, and vision in a format that’s both intimate and immersive.
You’ll gain perspectives that go beyond headlines, explore ideas that challenge the status quo, and discover how AI is transforming industries, societies, and even what it means to be human. Best of all, you can learn on the go, turning downtime into a productive and stimulating experience.
8 Best AI Podcasts for Every Listener
Here’s our roundup of the top AI podcasts that cater to different interests, expertise levels, and curiosities. Each offers a unique lens through which to explore artificial intelligence.
1. Lex Fridman Podcast
Hosted by MIT AI researcher Lex Fridman, Lex Fridman podcast is a deep and often philosophical exploration of intelligence—both human and artificial. Lex engages in long-form conversations with scientists, technologists, philosophers, and historians, delving into topics like consciousness, power, love, and the future of humanity. The show stands out for its intellectual depth and the genuine curiosity Lex brings to every discussion.
Pros:
- In-depth, wide-ranging conversations with high-profile guests like Elon Musk and Yuval Noah Harari.
- Lex’s humble and reflective interviewing style encourages guests to share personal and profound insights.
- The podcast creates an intimate, meditative atmosphere that draws listeners into meaningful reflection.
Cons:
- Episodes are often very long (2–4 hours), requiring a significant time commitment.
- Discussions can be highly theoretical, which may not suit listeners seeking practical takeaways.
- The release schedule is occasionally irregular.
Pricing: Free. Available on all major podcast platforms in audio and video formats.
2. The AI Podcast by NVIDIA
Produced by the technology leader NVIDIA, this podcast focuses on how AI is moving out of research labs and into the real world. Host Noah Kravitz interviews researchers, developers, and industry leaders who are applying AI across fields like healthcare, climate science, robotics, and autonomous vehicles.
Pros:
- Offers cutting-edge, application-focused content with real-world case studies.
- Episodes are well-produced and concise (20–40 minutes), making complex topics digestible.
- Highlights human stories behind technological breakthroughs.
Cons:
- As an NVIDIA production, the content occasionally emphasizes the company’s technologies like GPU computing.
- Less critical or skeptical perspectives are presented.
Pricing: Free.
3. Hard Fork
A weekly tech podcast from The New York Times, Hard Fork is hosted by journalists Kevin Roose and Casey Newton. With a mix of humor and sharp analysis, they break down the biggest stories in tech, including AI, social media, crypto, and the business of innovation.
Pros:
- Engaging, conversational style that balances entertainment and insight.
- Provides accessible summaries and critical perspectives on weekly tech news.
- Focuses on the societal and commercial impact of AI.
Cons:
- Light on technical details—not the best choice for developers seeking coding insights.
- The hosts’ strong opinions may not resonate with all listeners.
Pricing: Free.
4. Eye on A.I.
Hosted by former New York Times correspondent Craig S. Smith, Eye on A.I. focuses on the business and industrial applications of artificial intelligence. Craig speaks with executives, engineers, and scientists about how AI is being deployed across global industries.
Pros:
- Practical, ROI-driven discussions that cut through the hype.
- Global perspective with guests from diverse industries and regions.
- Craig’s journalistic experience ensures interviews are well-researched and insightful.
Cons:
- Geared toward business audiences rather than technical practitioners.
- Limited coverage of ethical or social issues.
Pricing: Free.
5. Practical AI: Machine Learning & Data Science
Produced by Changelog Media, Practical AI is aimed at developers, data scientists, and engineers. Hosts Chris Benson and Daniel Whitenack explore tools, workflows, and best practices in machine learning and data science, from MLOps to open-source frameworks.
Pros:
- Technical, no-fluff content that professionals can apply directly.
- Community-driven discussions addressing real-world challenges.
- Authentic insights from practitioners in the field.
Cons:
- High barrier to entry for non-technical listeners.
- Niche topics may limit broader appeal.
Pricing: Free.
6. In Machines We Trust
Produced by MIT Technology Review, In Machines We Trust investigates how AI and automation are influencing society, politics, and personal privacy. Each season focuses on a theme—such as facial recognition or AI in the workplace—using investigative reporting and narrative storytelling.
Pros:
- High production quality with compelling, documentary-style storytelling.
- Critical perspectives on ethics, policy, and social impact.
- Timely and relevant content that encourages deeper reflection.
Cons:
- Less frequent releases, often structured around seasons.
- The serious tone may not suit listeners seeking lighter content.
Pricing: Free.
7. AI Today Podcast
Hosted by Cognilytica analysts Kathleen Walch and Ronald Schmelzer, AI Today Podcast offers an educational take on AI markets, concepts, and trends. Episodes break down complex ideas into understandable segments, making it ideal for beginners and business audiences.
Pros:
- Clear, structured explanations of AI topics and terminology.
- Research-based content with objective analysis.
- Consistent release schedule.
Cons:
- More instructional than entertaining.
- Lacks deep technical or philosophical exploration.
Pricing: Free.
8. The Artificial Intelligence Podcast
This experimental podcast is generated entirely by AI. Using advanced text-to-speech technology, it summarizes and narrates articles and news about artificial intelligence, offering a glimpse into the potential of AI-driven content creation.
Pros:
- Demonstrates an innovative application of AI technology.
- Can cover a wide range of topics at scale.
- Useful for quick summaries of trending subjects.
Cons:
- Lacks the warmth, spontaneity, and depth of human-hosted shows.
- May occasionally include errors or lack context.
- Monotonous narration style.
Pricing: Free.
Final Words on Best AI Podcasts
With so many great options, the best AI podcast for you depends on what you’re looking to get out of the experience.
If you love big ideas and deep conversations, try the Lex Fridman Podcast.
If you’re a developer hungry for technical insights, Practical AI is your go-to. For business leaders, Eye on A.I. and AI Today Podcast offer valuable market insights, while Hard Fork keeps you updated with a side of humor.
If you’re curious about the societal impact of AI, don’t miss In Machines We Trust.
And if you want to experience AI content creation in action, sample The Artificial Intelligence Podcast.
The beauty of these shows is that they’re all free—you can find them on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or any other podcast app. So plug in, press play, and let the world’s leading AI voices guide you through the revolution that’s changing our world.
You Might Also Like: Best AI Language Learning App
