Listen to These 7 SQL Podcasts

Are you learning SQL online but craving more? If you're looking for a way to squeeze some sweet SQL knowledge into your day, try listening to a SQL podcast. Choose one of our picks and get ready to amp up your SQL game!

If you're like me, you like to get deep into a topic. You’re practicing it whenever there’s an opportunity. Of course, It’s hard to make time. I cherish the days I’m able to sit down and just get some hands-on learning done. For me, SQL from A to Z is one of those solutions which allows me to dive into learning SQL.

However, sitting in front of the screen (well, two screens in my case) is a luxury. I try to make time each day for learning. I’ll postpone some chores. I’ll go to bed late – waking up earlier is not an option ;). Learning (and practicing) SQL is something I just want to do.

If you’ve been reading our blog, you know that there are a few ways you can practice SQL online. But what if you just don’t have the time to sit down and get some SQL queries out of your system? Well, there is a way to learn SQL on the go. Whether you’re on a bus, in your car, or relaxing in a cafe, you can also be learning SQL. It’s called a podcast. You’ve probably heard of it.

Before we get right into it, let’s see what all the podcast fuss is about.

Why Should You Give SQL Podcasts a Go?

2019 was an excellent year for podcasting. Reports show that more than half of Americans have listened to a podcast, and approximately 32% listen to a podcast monthly. This year has noted the most significant increase in podcast consumption since the research started back in 2008.

Why is that? Podcasts are an easy way of incorporating something into your busy life. All you need is a device to play it on, headphones, and access to the internet. But that’s not all. There’s a podcast for everyone. Whether you are looking for hidden meanings in movies or want to learn about why your cat might want you out of your house, there’s a podcast for you.

Remember, everyone has a different learning style. And It’s a good idea to combine them. You can read about that in How to Study Online. I’ve noticed that if I combine hands-on SQL practice with listening to a podcast, I understand and remember some concepts better.

So, you’re willing to give podcasts a go. Which one should you choose to learn SQL?

Let’s find out!

Which SQL Podcast Is Right For You?

There are a lot of SQL podcasts out there. Fortunately, we did the homework for you. Here’s a list of seven SQL podcasts (in no particular order) that will help you to learn this handy language – and perhaps something more.

1. SQL Server Radio

At the time of writing this article, SQL Server Radio had 117 episodes and publishes content about once a month. This podcast is for anyone interested in Microsoft SQL Server or in the Microsoft data platform in general. If you’re a database developer, architect, or system administrator, try it out. The hosts, Guy Glantser and Eitan Blumin also talk about other things, including Azure and Amazon Cloud services, Elastic Search, Hadoop, MongoDB, and machine learning. You can listen to SQL Server Radio on its website, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Deezer, TuneIn, Stitcher, or RadioPublic.

2. SQL Data Partners Podcast

In this podcast, host Carlos L. Chacon and his guests talk about SQL Server and things related to it. What I found interesting about this podcast is its nice touch of dedicating some of the time to discussing personal development. All of that is topped with a Q&A session.

The podcast is available on iTunes, Stitcher, Google Play (must be signed in), PodBean, Feedly, SoundCloud, and Spotify.

3. Ask SQL Family - SQL Player's show

Started by Kamil Nowiński and with 31 episodes (so far), this series covers a vast array of topics and has an impressive guest list. It’s an extension of the blog SQL Player. The coverage is wide, so what I would recommend is going to their website and skimming for something that catches your eye – or, in this case, ear. Listen in via their website, Spreaker, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or download an MP3. What I really like about this is that each episode is supplemented by a transcript.

4. Dear SQL DBA | A Podcast for SQL Server DBAs & Developers

A Microsoft Certified Master in SQL Server and a Microsoft MVP, Kendra Little produces several kinds of SQL-related materials. You can find her videos, quizzes, and drawings at SQLWorkbooks.com. And there’s also her podcast, which has a very nice quality to it.

As described on her website, “Kendra Little answers burning questions from SQL Server Database Administrators. From dealing with SAN Administrators to handling index rebuilds, she helps DBAs improve their jobs.”

You can listen to the podcast as-is. But if you prefer to watch your information, there is a YouTube video version as well. The sound is crisp and the video quality is spot on. This one is worth my YouTube Premium subscription. Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, transcripts on her blog, and (sometimes) live streams on Twitch are also available.

5. RunAsRadio

RunAsRadio is a perfect pick for people who want to get a wide range of IT topics. And I mean WIDE. Started in 2007, there are over 700 episodes and counting. You can expect a new show each Wednesday. Episodes feature a guest expert and are dedicated to relevant IT topics, including SQL.

Richard Campbell, RunAsRadio’s creator, has years of experience as a PC industry professional and as a co-host of another podcast. If you're an IT professional working with Microsoft products, you’ll find something interesting here.

You can check it out on Soundcloud, iTunes, Stitcher, and Overcast.

6. SQL Server 101 Podcast

If you know about Philip Burton, you might be acquainted with his video courses on Microsoft SQL Server. SQL Server 101 is the audio version of these videos. The whole idea is to help people get from a beginner level to 70-461 certification and beyond.

If you're starting your SQL journey and want to work with data, this is a good place to boost your skills. There are 25 episodes, all of which are about 25 minutes long. When you're on the go, you can put on some SQL Server 101. It might help you pass your exam with flying colors.

Listen on their website, fmradiofree, Google Podcasts, and Apple Podcasts.

7. SQL Down Under

SQL Down Under is dedicated primarily to the topic of SQL Server and other data-related products. Created by Greg Low, it features guests from the SQL Server and data communities. It’s worth checking out because the guest list is extensive – you might find an episode that hits just the right spot when it comes to the topic discussed. Listen to the podcast on the website, Google, player.fm, or Apple.

Listen Up and Learn SQL

So there you have it. After getting some SQL querying done, you can go for a walk, do some chores around the house, or just get away from the screen without giving up any SQL time.

It doesn't matter if you’re an Apple or Android user. The apps are there. Next time you’re stuck in a long commute or driving somewhere, be sure to pick the right SQL podcast for yourself.

Let us know which podcast you’re going to start listening to. If you think there should be a show added to this list, tell us in the comments. You can also hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn. And if podcasts aren’t enough for you, subscribe to our YouTube channel.