The Wirecutter Show

Fall can be bittersweet—you may be coming home from vacation and settling back into your routines, but you also want to soak up the last of the warm weather before the winter comes. An e-bike might seem like a tempting compromise for an affordable, but adventurous and outdoorsy commute. 

In this bonus episode, Wirecutter Senior Editor and bike expert Chris Ryan tells us what an e-bike is, which kind you probably want to look for, and what common safety and repairability issues you’ll want to be aware of before you buy. 

This episode covers: 

• What e-bikes are good for: They’re a great way to commute quickly without getting sweaty. They can also be an affordable alternative to a second car and can help people with mobility issues get back into cycling.
• What to know before you buy: E-bikes are heavy, so figure out how you'll store and maneuver one at home and at your destination. You'll also want to decide between a regular or a cargo e-bike, which is built to carry kids or groceries.
• Why you should buy from a local bike shop: They’re complex machines and require more frequent maintenance than regular bikes. It's a good idea to have a local professional you can go to for service, repairs, and support.
• Why buying a cheap replacement battery can be a fire hazard: It’s dangerous to buy cheap, off-brand replacement batteries. Low-cost batteries often lack a Battery Management System (BMS), which prevents them from overheating and catching fire. Always buy a replacement battery from the original manufacturer.
• How to protect your investment: E-bikes can be expensive. Check if your homeowners or renters insurance covers e-bikes, and if not, consider a separate policy. You should also register your bike with a nonprofit like bikeindex.org, which can help you get it back if it’s ever stolen.

Products we recommend: 

• The best e-bike for most commuters: Specialized Globe Haul ST
• The best e-bike for work and play: Trek Verve+ 3

Additional reading:

• The 2 Best Ebikes for Commuters of 2025
• The 5 Best Bike Helmets for Commuters in 2025
• The 5 Best Kids Bike Helmets of 2025

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Wirecutter Social and Website

Instagram: /wirecutter

Threads: /@wirecutter

Twitter: /wirecutter

Facebook: /thewirecutter

TikTok: /wirecutter

LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oral health is about more than just a pretty smile; it's also connected to your overall health and well-being.

In this episode, senior staff writer and toothbrush fanatic Nancy Redd explains how to brush properly, whether a manual or electric toothbrush is right for you, and how to find the best toothbrush for your family, no matter the budget. She shares surprising tips about oral hygiene and how to get kids excited about taking care of their teeth.

And don’t forget to check out our video guide on how to properly brush your teeth.

This episode covers: 

• Why oral hygiene is so important: Brushing for 2 minutes is key to a healthy mouth. Poor oral hygiene can affect your overall health.
• Electric vs. manual: A manual toothbrush is just as effective as an electric one if you brush for a full two minutes. The benefit of an electric toothbrush is its built-in timer, which ensures you brush long enough.
• Two types of electric toothbrushes: The top-rated Oral-B and Sonicare models differ in how they clean. Oral-B toothbrushes use an oscillating motion (a spinning, round head), while Sonicare models use a vibrating motion (a brush-shaped head that moves back and forth). If one is uncomfortable, try the other.
• Gentle toothbrushes: For a more gentle clean, consider a kid's electric toothbrush. They have a softer, smaller head and a milder vibration that's more comfortable for sensitive teeth and gums.
• Water flossers: If you have trouble flossing, a water flosser can be a great alternative. It uses a pressurized stream of water to blast away gunk from your teeth.

Products we recommend: 

• The best oscillating electric toothbrush: Oral-B Pro 1000
• A quieter, vibrating brush with more expensive refills: Philips Sonicare 4100
• The best kids electric toothbrush (also good for adults with sensitive teeth): Philips Sonicare for Kids Design a Pet Edition
• The best countertop water flosser: Waterpik Ion
• The best cordless water flosser: Philips Sonicare Power Flosser 3000 Cordless

Additional reading:

• The 2 Best Electric Toothbrushes of 2025
• The 2 Best Electric Toothbrushes for Kids in 2025
• Why You Should Avoid Knockoff Oral-B and Philips Sonicare Brush Heads
• The 3 Best Water Flossers of 2025

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Wirecutter Social and Website

Instagram: /wirecutter

Threads: /@wirecutter

Twitter: /wirecutter

Facebook: /thewirecutter

TikTok: /wirecutter

LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

More than 100 million Americans are exposed to unhealthy levels of noise daily. To help you protect yourself and those you love, we’re re-airing this episode on how  to determine if you’re at risk of hearing loss and what you can do about it.

Lauren Dragan, Wirecutter’s longtime senior writer covering headphones and audio equipment, walks us through the health issues linked to noise pollution, how to find out if you’re exposed to too much noise, and specific ways to reduce sounds at home, while commuting, or in noisier situations (like concerts or parties). 

Lauren shares her favorite headphones, from noise-canceling headphones to sleep headphones. And she recommends specific ear muffs and ear plugs for adults, kids, and babies. Lauren also reveals how to use various frequencies of noise—like brown or pink noise—to block out irritating sounds that may be bothering you.

Products we recommend:

Gear to help you monitor sound levels: 

• Apple Watch with sound metering: Apple Watch Series 10 and Apple Watch SE (2nd generation)
• An app for any phone to monitor sound levels: NIOSH Sound Level Meter

Everyday protection options for your ears: 

• Earplugs for concerts or other loud moments: Loop Experience 2 or Loop Switch
• Noise cancelling earbuds: Sony WF-1000XM5
• Noise cancelling over-ear headphones: Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700
• Noise Isolating tips for most earbuds: Comply ear tips

Headphones for sleeping: 

• AcousticSheep SleepPhones Wireless
• Soundcore sleep A20

Protecting little ears: 

• Earmuffs for babies: Ems for Kids Baby Earmuffs
• Earmuffs for kids and teens: Muted Earmuffs
• Earplugs for kids and teens: Loop kids
• Noise cancelling headphones for kids: Puro Sound Labs PuroQuiet-Plus

Lauren loves: 

• Bearaby Cotton Napper

Additional reading:

• The 4 Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones of 2024 
• The Best Sleep Headphones (But We Hoped for Better)
• The 3 Best Earplugs for Concerts of 2024 
• The 5 Best Kids Headphones of 2024
• The 4 Best Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds of 2024 
• Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Kids Is a Growing Problem. Here’s How to Protect Little Ears.

Lauren Dragan

Instagram: /laurendragan

Bluesky: /‪@laurendragan.bsky.social‬

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Wirecutter Social and Website

Instagram: /wirecutter

Threads: /@wirecutter

Twitter: /wirecutter

Facebook: /thewirecutter

TikTok: /wirecutter

LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Using a bidet may seem a little intimidating to some, but to others it's a way of life. 

In this episode, senior staff writer and bidet-convert Doug Mahoney explains why these modern fixtures that wash your bum are a game-changer for hygiene. He shares how they work, what to look for when buying one, and his top recommendations for every budget. 

This episode covers:

How to choose between cold and  warm-water bidets: They each have their pros and cons. Cold ones are the cheapest and easiest to install, while warm ones are more expensive and offer a luxury experience. 

What to know about installation: If you can install a regular toilet seat, you can install a cold-water bidet. Warm water bidets are a little trickier, and require access to an outlet. You’ll also want to make sure your toilet has an accessible water shutoff valve.

Why it’s worth paying for a reliable brand: Given a bidet is a plumbing fixture, you should buy from a trusted brand, like Toto or Brondell. These companies tend to have reliable products that will last–and that will be less likely to cause leaks and other issues. 

Why bidets are great for everyone (including those with accessibility issues): A good bidet can make anyone feel cleaner, and they’re particularly helpful for people who have mobility issues – whether that’s a potty training kid, someone recovering from surgery, or an older adult who wants to live longer independently.

Products We Recommend: 

• The best bidet: Toto Washlet C5
• A cheaper Toto with slightly less style: Toto Washlet C2
• Our new favorite bidet: Toto S5 Washlet
• A cheaper version of our new favorite: Toto S2
• A great cold water model that replaces your toilet seat: Brondell EcoSeat S101 Non-Electric Bidet Seat
• A great cold water model to use with an existing toilet seat: Bio Bidet SlimEdge Attachment

Additional reading:

• The 6 Best Bidet Toilet Seats or Washlets of 2025
• How to Clean A Bidet
• I’ve Installed 25+ Bidets in My Home. Here Are My Tips for Doing It Right.

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Wirecutter Social and Website

Instagram: /wirecutter

Threads: /@wirecutter

Twitter: /wirecutter

Facebook: /thewirecutter

TikTok: /wirecutter

LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If you’ve ever suspected your smart devices are spying on you, you’re right. In this episode, Jon Chase, Wirecutter's supervising editor for smart home coverage, reveals how even everyday devices you may not consider "smart" are monitoring you. They’re collecting data to build a profile that can then be sold to the highest bidder.

The conversation covers:

• The devices collecting your data: Any device connected to the internet can collect data. This isn’t necessarily malicious; a smart thermostat, for instance, collects data to heat your home more efficiently.
• How your devices build a profile: Devices use your IP address, online activity, location, and even associations with other people to compile a detailed profile. This profile is often sold to the highest bidder for various reasons.
• How your smart TV builds on this profile: Modern TVs use automatic content recognition (ACR) to screenshot your screen every few seconds, adding to your data profile. Data brokers mine this info.
• How to protect your data: Jon shares practical, actionable steps to keep your data safe. He provides specific tips for adjusting privacy settings making more informed choices about the devices you bring home.

Products we recommend:

• Best streaming device if you you want to avoid ACR: Apple TV 4K
• Jon’s favorite power washer: Ryobi RY142500 Brushless 2500 PSI Pressure Washer

Additional reading:

• Yes, Your TV Is Probably Spying on You. Your Fridge, Too. Here’s What They Know.
• The Best Data Removal Services
• I Tried, and Failed, to Disappear from the Internet
• Can You Really Disappear Online?

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Wirecutter Social and Website

Instagram: /wirecutter

Threads: /@wirecutter

Twitter: /wirecutter

Facebook: /thewirecutter

TikTok: /wirecutter

LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Natural disasters are becoming more intense and unpredictable. To help you prepare, we’re re-airing this episode on how to build a disaster kit. Wirecutter also just published a handy tool to help you customize an emergency kit specific to your needs, an article on preparing a disaster pantry, and guidance on choosing a generator.  

In this episode, Harry Sawyers, who edits Wirecutter’s extensive emergency-preparedness coverage, walks us through the supplies everyone should have on hand to stay comfortable and safe—regardless of the emergency. We break down a basic supply kit that won’t break the bank—you may already own many of these items—and that should help in the face of a power outage, minor flooding, or more-serious disasters. 

Plus, Harry introduces us to the wild world of folding hand saws, solar floating lanterns, and weather radios. 

Find a full episode description here. 

Articles about emergency preparedness: 

• Build Your Own Disaster-Prep Kit
• A Complete Guide to Backup Power, From Portable Power Banks to Standby Generators
• The Best Portable Generators
• How to Prepare Your Pantry for an Emergency
• 9 Extreme Weather Survivors Share the Tools That Helped Them Get Through Disaster
• The LA Wildfires Devastated the Homes of Two Wirecutter Writers. Here’s What They Learned While Recovering
• The Best Emergency Preparedness Supplies
• The Best Gear for Your Bug-Out Bag 
• Everything I Did to Flood-Proof My Old House

Products we recommend:

• Water & Food
  • Best rigid water container: Reliance Aqua-Tainer 7-Gallon
• Light
  • Best flashlight: ThruNite Archer 2A V3
  • Best floating solar lantern: LuminAid Titan 2-in-1 Power Lantern
• Power
  • Best portable solar charger: BigBlue 28W USB Solar Charger
• Tools
  • Best weather radio: Midland ER310
  • Best multi-tool: Leatherman Skeletool CX
  • Folding saws Harry likes: Silky Pocketboy 130 mm Folding Saw Medium Teeth 340-13,  Silky Professional BIGBOY Folding Saw 360mm Large Teeth (354-36),  Silky Zubat Curved Hand Saw 270mm Large Teeth (270-27)
• Harry’s favorite recent purchase: Aquatabs

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Wirecutter Social and Website

Instagram: /wirecutter

Threads: /@wirecutter

Twitter: /wirecutter

Facebook: /thewirecutter

TikTok: /wirecutter

LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode, senior kitchen writer Michael Sullivan demystifies all things olive oil. He shares how to navigate the overwhelming olive oil aisle, what “extra virgin” really means, and the best way to store this kitchen staple so it will stay fresh (and won’t go rancid).

Whether you're an olive oil aficionado or just looking to improve your everyday cooking, this episode is packed with essential information to help you select and savor better olive oil. The conversation covers:

• The enemies of olive oil: Learn the "HALT" acronym – Heat, Air, Light, and Time – and how these factors degrade your oil.
• What to look for on the label: Understand the crucial difference between a harvest date and a "best by" date, and why it matters. Plus, find out why dark bottles or tins are superior to clear glass.
• The truth about "extra virgin": Michael explains the standards for extra virgin olive oil and the complexities of international regulations, revealing why the quality on your grocery store shelf might not always match the label.
• How to identify rancid oil: Learn how to recognize the telltale signs of spoiled olive oil, often described as smelling like "Crayola crayons."
• Storage secrets: Get actionable tips on where not to store your olive oil at home (including right next to your stove and the refrigerator).
• Country of origin vs. quality: Michael debunks the myth that certain countries always produce the "best" olive oil and encourages listeners to explore different regions and flavor profiles.
• The Wirecutter tasting process: Hear about how Michael and the Wirecutter team conduct their rigorous, brand-concealed olive oil taste tests.
• Michael's top tips for shopping: Discover where to find hidden gems in the grocery store and how transparency from producers can be a sign of quality.

And for the adventurous, stick around for a live olive oil taste test where Christine, Caira, and Rosie bravely "swirl, sniff, slurp, and swallow" to experience the nuances of different oils, from grassy and peppery to fruity and bitter.

Read a full description of this episode and access a transcript here. 

Products we recommend:

• A widely-available olive oil we love: Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil Rich Taste
• A fruity, buttery oil we love (and is great on fish and salads!): Bono Sicilia PGI Organic Sicilian Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• A balanced green and peppery oil: Graza Sizzle Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• A mild but fresh and silky oil: Cobram Estate California Select Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Michael’s favorite mail-order oils from Fat Gold

Additional reading:

• The 5 Best Olive Oils You Can Buy at the Store in 2025 

Michael Sullivan

• Instagram: /little__michael__

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Wirecutter Social and Website

Instagram: /wirecutter

Threads: /@wirecutter

Twitter: /wirecutter

Facebook: /thewirecutter

TikTok: /wirecutter

LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tired of creepy crawlies? Wirecutter's pest expert Doug Mahoney reveals the right way to tackle ant and roach infestations. He offers practical advice and debunks common myths (for example, cockroaches aren’t actually the most radiation-resistant insects!).

Doug's 4-Step Pest Control Plan:

1. Observe & Identify: Know your enemy! Find their entry points & hotspots. Sawdust + carpenter ants? Call a pro ASAP!
2. Clean Up: Starve 'em out! Secure all food (pet food is a big one!), wipe surfaces constantly. Roaches love protein, ants crave sugar.
3. Seal Entry Points: Block their access! Heavy-duty caulk is your best friend around foundations & pipes.
4. Use Bait (Most Effective!): The ultimate weapon! Baits combine food + slow-acting poison. Ants take it to the colony; roaches share the toxic love (🤢). Place bait where you see 'em most!

Avoid:

• Kill-on-contact sprays: These can make ant problems worse by splitting colonies.
• Bug bombs/foggers: They don't reach hiding spots and are explosion risks.
• "Natural" remedies (e.g., Diatomaceous earth): Often messy and less powerful than bait.

When to Call a Pro: If DIY baits aren't working after a couple of weeks, it's time for an exterminator.

More Pest Help: If you need more pest-control help, check out our episodes on combatting mice and rats, and repellents that work against mosquitos and ticks.

Access the full show notes for this episode.

Products we recommend:

• Best ant bait traps: Terro T300 Liquid Ant Baits
• Best roach bait traps: Terro T500 Multi-Surface Roach Baits
• Easy-to-use roach gel: Terro T502 Roach Bait Gel
• Siliconized acrylic latex sealant: Alex Plus 10.1 oz. White Acrylic Latex Caulk Plus Silicone

Additional reading:

• How to Get Rid of Ants, Mice, and Other Pests 
• The 5 Best Roach Killers of 2025
• The 3 Best Ant Killers of 2025

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Wirecutter Social and Website

Instagram: /wirecutter

Threads: /@wirecutter

Twitter: /wirecutter

Facebook: /thewirecutter

TikTok: /wirecutter

LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, our guest is Suleika Jaouad, author of The Book of Alchemy and creator of The Isolation Journals Substack. We delve into how journaling can help you unlock creative potential and navigate life’s challenges. 

Suleika shares her personal journey with journaling as a lifeline during her battle with leukemia and a pathway to "creative alchemy" – transforming difficult experiences into meaningful expression. She highlights the benefits of journaling on mental health, and how it has changed her life.

The discussion also explores practical aspects of journaling, from overcoming the fear of a blank page to maintaining consistency through accountability and prompts. Suleika shares her preferred tools—a fountain pen and quality paper—and the rituals that help her stay consistent.. 

Plus, Wirecutter writer Arriana Vasquez tells us about digital notebooks, an innovative way to modernize the writing experience without sacrificing the tactile pleasure of it. 

Listeners will gain actionable insights into starting and sustaining a journaling practice.

Access the full show notes for this episode here.

Products we recommend:

• The best hardcover notebook: Leuchtturm1917 Hardcover Notebook Classic (A5)
• The best pen: Uni-ball Jetstream RT
• The best digital notebook: Supernote A6 X2 Nomad
• Best for replacing your paper notebooks: reMarkable 2
• Best for reading and annotating ebooks: Kobo Elipsa 2E

Suleika’s favorites: 

• Her current journal: Leuchtturm1917
• A fountain pen: Lamy
• Le Labo Santal No. 26 Candle
• The journals of famous writers she keeps on her desk: Susan Sontag, Virginia Woolf, Audre Lorde, Frida Kahlo and Sylvia Plath

Additional reading:

• Journaling Changed Suleika Jaouad's Life. Here Are Her Tips for Getting Started—and Sticking with It.
• The 3 Best Digital Notebooks of 2025
• The 11 Best Notebooks and Notepads for 2025
• The 7 Best Pens of 2025

More from Suleika Jaouad:

• Instagram:/suleikajaouad
• Facebook: /SuleikaJaouadPage 
• Website: https://www.suleikajaouad.com/
• Substack newsletter: https://theisolationjournals.substack.com/about
• The Book of Alchemy

More from Wirecutter: 

• Instagram: /wirecutter
• Threads: /@wirecutter
• Twitter: /wirecutter
• Facebook: /thewirecutter
• TikTok: /wirecutter
• LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter
• Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/
• Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

Credits:

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Editing by Abigail Keel. Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. This episode was mixed by Rowan Niemisto. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Wirecutter Social and Website

Instagram: /wirecutter

Threads: /@wirecutter

Twitter: /wirecutter

Facebook: /thewirecutter

TikTok: /wirecutter

LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nothing says summer like ketchup, chips, and ice cream. In this taste test special, we take a field trip to the Wirecutter test kitchen to sample these items alongside staff experts Antara Sinha, Rachel Wharton and Marguerite Preston—sharing top picks and behind-the-scenes testing moments.

Check out a video version of this episode on YouTube! 

Products we tasted:

Ketchups: 

• The best classic ketchup: Heinz Tomato Ketchup
• The best organic ketchup: Trader Joe’s Organic Ketchup (Christine’s favorite)
• Worth considering: 365 by Whole Foods Market Tomato Ketchup

Chips: 

• The best plain potato chip: Amazon Fresh Classic Potato Chips (Caira’s favorite)
• A thin and crispy classic chip for salt lovers: Clancy’s Original Potato Chips
• The best kettle chip: Deep River Snacks Original Sea Salt Kettle Cooked Potato Chips

Ice Cream Sandwiches:

• Best all-around sandwich:  365 Organic Ice Cream Sandwiches (Rosie’s favorite)
• An ice cream-heavy sandwich: FatBoy Vanilla Ice Cream Sandwich
• A grown-up sandwich: Alden's Vanilla Bean Round Sammies (Marguerite’s favorite)
• A delicious dairy-free option: So Delicious Vanilla Bean Sandwiches

Additional reading:

• The 3 Best Ketchups of 2025
• The 9 Best Potato Chips of 2025
• The 3 Best Ketchups of 2025

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more›

Wirecutter Social and Website

Instagram: /wirecutter

Threads: /@wirecutter

Twitter: /wirecutter

Facebook: /thewirecutter

TikTok: /wirecutter

LinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutter

Website: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/

Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/

The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel. Studio support from Maddy Masiello, Nick Pitman, Kyle Grandillo, and Samantha Winter. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Daniel Ramirez, and Sophia Lanman. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frumin is Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief. Hosted by Rosie Guerin, Caira Blackwell and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.