Article | Misc

Top 10 Tech Podcasts in 2024 as Chosen by the Rails Community

Reading time: ~ 4 minutes

We are thrilled to share that over 2,700 developers from the Ruby on Rails community across 106 countries have shared their thoughts on the tools, frameworks, and workflows that shape their daily development lives in our 2024 Ruby on Rails Community Survey. This was a surprising increase of 10% more participants than our last survey in 2022!

Some of these questions date back to our very first survey, allowing us to track trends over time. Others are new additions designed to explore what's fresh and emerging in the Rails ecosystem.

One of our most popular questions remains: "What are some of the best tech podcasts that you enjoy listening to?"

Learning never ends in the tech world. There are always new updates, protocols, and challenges to work through, and podcasts are a great hands-free, on-the-go way to learn about a broad range of topics. They allow us to hear from thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and experienced developers who speak to real-life daily work challenges. Their stories, wisdom, and practical advice are gold nuggets, and they tend to pop up throughout each podcast that made our top 10 list this year!

Here are the Top 10 Tech Podcasts chosen by the Ruby on Rails community and recommended episodes for you to check out!

top 10 podcast graphic

Best Tech Podcast #10 - Rooftop Ruby

Two Ruby programmers, Collin Donnell, and Joel Drapper, share their journeys as developers, discussing Ruby, web, and native software development, technology trends, and the real-world challenges they face building software. Through candid conversations, they bring relatable insights to seasoned developers and those new to the field.

🎧 Recommended episode 27: Hiring Juniors with Ryan Bigg

Best Tech Podcast #9 - The Changelog Podcast

The Changelog Podcast, hosted by Adam Stacoviak and Jerod Santo, dives deep into the world of software development, featuring candid conversations with developers, engineers, and industry leaders who are shaping the future of tech. From open-source projects to the latest trends in DevOps, it’s a go-to resource for devs eager to stay in the loop and learn from real-world experiences shared by experts.

🎧 Recommended episode: #521 Don't sleep on Ruby & Rails

Best Tech Podcast #8 - IndieRails

The IndieRails podcast is a vibrant exploration of the intersection between independent software development and the Ruby on Rails community. Hosted by passionate indie devs, the podcast offers a unique perspective on building and scaling products without the backing of large corporations. Hosted by Jeremy Smith and Jess Brown, it delves into real-world challenges, creative problem-solving, and the joys of crafting software with autonomy. This podcast is a must-listen for developers seeking inspiration beyond the corporate tech sphere.

🎧 Recommended episode: #17 with Robby Russell

Best Tech Podcast #7 - Code with Jason

This is an interview-style format hosted by Jason Swett, in which he interviews some of the most interesting people in the tech industry about various Ruby on Rails and technical coding topics. With a focus on practical insights, Jason’s conversations cover everything from debugging techniques to scaling applications, making it a valuable resource for both seasoned developers and newcomers alike. Each episode brings expert advice and real-world experiences, helping listeners deepen their understanding of Rails while keeping up with the latest trends in software development.

🎧 Recommended episode: #228 - Flaky Tests with Alan Ridlehoover and Fito von Zastrow

Best Tech Podcast #6 - Ruby for All

The Ruby for All podcast is all about making Ruby accessible and fun for developers at every level, especially those just getting started. Hosts Julie J. and Andrew Mason break down complex topics, share practical coding tips, and discuss the joys and challenges of building with Ruby, creating a welcoming space for devs to grow and thrive.

🎧 Recommended episode: S2:E61 Mastering Rails Callbacks – Deciphering the Secrets of Active Record

Best Tech Podcast #5 - Maintainable Software Podcast

The Maintainable Software Podcast is full of conversations on improving your software project's maintainability. This podcast might sound familiar because A) Planet Argon produces it, and B) our very own Robby Russell is the host! On Maintainable, Robby speaks with seasoned practitioners who've helped organizations overcome challenges associated with technical debt and legacy code. Many conversations focus on team processes, communication challenges, growing as technical leaders, and diving into new-to-you projects.

🎧 Recommended episode: EP-163 Kyle Daigle - Scaling Up with AI: A New Era of Code Maintenance

Best Tech Podcast #4 - Ruby Rogues

The Ruby Rogues Podcast is a lively and insightful show where a panel of experienced developers tackles the latest trends, tools, and challenges in the Ruby programming world. With in-depth discussions, interviews with industry experts, and a focus on solving real-world coding problems, it’s perfect for Rubyists looking to sharpen their skills and stay ahead of the curve. Join hosts Charles Max Wood, Ayush Newatia, and Valentino Stoll new episodes each week and such a huge library of episodes, there's always something new to dive into!

🎧 Recommended episode: Powering Rails Applications with Postgres - RUBY 621

Best Tech Podcast #3 - The Ruby on Rails Podcast

The Ruby on Rails Podcast is still the longest-running in the community, bringing you the latest news, insights, and expert conversations from the Rails community. Hosted by Elise Shaffer, Brian Mariani, and Nick Schwaderer, it explores the evolving world of Rails development with interviews, technical deep dives, and stories from experienced developers, making it essential listening for anyone passionate about Rails and web development.

🎧 Recommended episode: 520: Backend Accessibility with Hilary Stohs-Krause

Best Tech Podcast #2 - The Bikeshed

Hosted by Chris Toomey and Steph Viccari, this weekly podcast discusses the challenges of being a software developer, refining your craft, exploring new technologies, real-life lessons they've learned, and news and upgrades in the Rails community. The show is characterized by engaging discussions on technical topics and the broader developer experience. The hosts emphasize clarity and practicality, making complex subjects accessible and relatable for listeners, whether seasoned developers or newcomers to the field.

🎧 Recommended episode: 442: Paradigms - What is a Program?

Best Tech Podcast #1 - Remote Ruby

The top favorite for the second survey in a row is Remote Ruby, hosted by Chris Oliver, Jason Charnes, and Andrew Mason. The show explores various topics, including the challenges of modern frameworks and tools and the dynamics of remote work. By sharing their personal experiences and inviting guests from the Ruby community, the hosts aim to deepen listeners' understanding of the technologies they are passionate about.