Does Listening to Podcasts Increase IQ?
The Myth: Listening to educational podcasts can increase your IQ by exposing you to new information.
The Reality: Podcasts build crystallized intelligence (knowledge, vocabulary) but passive listening is less cognitively demanding than reading. They're a good supplement but not a primary cognitive enhancer.
What the Science Says
Educational podcasts provide genuine learning benefits — they expand vocabulary, introduce new concepts, and build general knowledge. This contributes to crystallized intelligence, which IQ tests do measure. However, passive listening is less cognitively demanding than active reading. Research on learning modalities shows that reading requires more active cognitive engagement — you must decode text, build mental models, and manage attention with fewer external cues than audio provides. For IQ improvement specifically: podcasts are better than passive entertainment (TV scrolling) but less effective than challenging reading. The best use is as a supplement — listen during commutes and exercise when reading isn't possible, but prioritize reading for maximum cognitive engagement.
Learn more about what IQ actually measures and what different scores mean.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do podcasts increase IQ?
They build knowledge and vocabulary (crystallized intelligence) but passive listening is less cognitively demanding than reading. Podcasts are a good supplement for learning but not the most efficient cognitive enhancer.
Are educational podcasts good for the brain?
Yes — they're better than passive entertainment and build genuine knowledge. However, reading challenging material produces stronger cognitive engagement. Use podcasts when reading isn't possible (commutes, exercise).
What's better for the brain: podcasts or books?
Reading is more cognitively demanding and produces stronger learning and memory retention. Podcasts are more convenient and provide good passive learning. Ideally, do both — read for deep engagement, listen for supplementary learning.
More IQ Myths Debunked
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MyIQScores Editorial Team
Editorial team focused on cognitive testing & psychometrics research
Last updated
May 10, 2026
MyIQScores content is written and maintained by our editorial team using published research in cognitive psychology and psychometrics as its source base. We label estimates as estimates, link primary sources where available, correct errors when readers flag them, and update pages as research or feedback warrants — see our corrections policy.