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
20 snips
Mar 16, 2026 • 27min
Autopilot Mode with Justin Chen
Justin Chen, a VS Code software engineer focused on chat UI/UX and agent tooling. He discusses Autopilot’s hands-off automation and approval modes. They cover chat decluttering with shimmers and collapsed tool calls. They explain the input bar split, the new permissions picker, and how plan mode can hand off to Autopilot.
29 snips
Feb 9, 2026 • 30min
Subagents: Parallel Execution and Context Isolation [Updated]
Harald Kirschner, a VS Code engineer focused on agent workflows and AI integrations, explains subagents and context isolation. He breaks down agent loops and context windows. He describes how subagents run in isolation, summarize findings, and execute in parallel. He also compares custom agents and model choices for different tasks.
33 snips
Jan 12, 2026 • 41min
Orchestrating Multiple Agents in VS Code with Ben & Peng
Benjamin Pasero and Peng Lyu, both integral members of the VS Code team, delve into the exciting evolution of AI features within the editor. They discuss the significance of agent orchestration and explain the three types of agents: interactive local, background, and cloud. The duo emphasizes the importance of maintaining project reliability through linting and tests while revealing how sessions can produce valuable artifacts beyond just code. Listeners will appreciate practical tips on embedding these agents into workflows and insights on the new chat UI.
67 snips
Dec 23, 2025 • 44min
VS Code - 2025 Wrapped with Burke Holland and Pierce Boggan
Burke Holland, an engineer on the VS Code team, shares insights on the exciting developments in VS Code from 2025. He discusses the impact of Copilot Free's launch, transforming workflows with Copilot Edits and Next Edit Suggestions. Burke explains the innovative Agent Mode for autonomous coding and how custom instructions enhance accuracy. The conversation also covers the importance of open sourcing Copilot Chat and the challenges of security in terminal commands. Together with Pierce Boggan, they reflect on a year of breakthroughs and community feedback that shaped VS Code.
30 snips
Dec 8, 2025 • 24min
Models, Evals, and Raptor Mini with Julia Kasper
Julia Kasper, an engineer focused on AI integrations for VS Code, discusses the transformative power of AI in developer workflows. She explains how model evaluation and fine-tuning enhance coding experiences. Julia highlights the significance of Raptor Mini for quick tasks and the nuances of choosing and adapting models. The conversation also dives into model changes over time and the importance of feedback in refining AI tools. Listeners gain insights into maximizing efficiency with cutting-edge technologies!
37 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.
