Top 7 Podcasts for Swedish Learners of Every Level

Podcasts are a great way to improve your Swedish language skills. They provide an excellent opportunity to hear the language in context, practice your listening skills, and pick up new vocabulary. Here are some of the top podcasts that can help you on your Swedish language journey.

1. Coffee Break Swedish

Recommended For: Beginners in Swedish.

Coffee Break Swedish follows teacher Hanna and her student Mark as they navigate the Swedish language together. Each episode features Hanna explaining how the language works while guiding Mark (and you) through practical situations. This podcast provides a relaxed and engaging way to learn Swedish, akin to enjoying coffee with a friend who speaks the language. Each 15-20 minute lesson includes clear explanations and real-life scenarios, helping you build confidence as you learn. With cultural insights included throughout, you’ll not only improve your language skills but also gain a richer appreciation for Swedish culture.

2. Simple Swedish Podcast

Recommended for: Beginners to Intermediate Swedish Speakers.

Listen to Simple Swedish Podcast for weekly episodes that present Swedish in a natural, yet slower and more accessible manner. This podcast is ideal for those who are past the beginner stage but still find native content too difficult to grasp. Each week, explores a new theme that covers a range of topics, including practical skills, language learning, personal growth, and everyday experiences.

3. Swedish podcast for beginners (Lätt Svenska med Oskar)

Recommended For: Beginners in Swedish.

This podcast posts daily episodes completely in Swedish designed to help you learn Swedish. Since the episodes are completely in Swedish, it may be more suitable for intermediate learners rather than beginners. The host speaks slowly, often repeating phrases with variations, and discusses relevant topics for everyday life. While it’s great for building comprehension and vocabulary, some episodes may be more difficult than others depending on your vocabulary level.

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4. Sveriges Radio 

Recommended for: Beginners to Intermediate Swedish Speakers.

Sveriges Radio has a range of programs designed for people who are new to Sweden and the Swedish language. Some examples are RadioSweden på lätt Svenska, Klartext – nyheter på ett enklare sätt and Sveriges Radio på ett lättare sätt. All of these use simpler language and are usually at a slower pace, making it easier for non-native speakers to understand. The content itself also focuses on topics relevant to newcomers, which is great if you want to get insight into relevant topics in Swedish society. 

5. Språket i P1

Recommended for: Intermediate to Advanced Swedish Speakers.

Språket i P1 is a popular Swedish podcast that dives deep into the nuances of the Swedish language. Hosted by experts in linguistics, it covers everything from grammar and pronunciation to language evolution and regional dialects. This podcast is generally more suitable for learners at an intermediate to advanced level. While beginners may find some content interesting, the discussions often delve into complex linguistic concepts, grammar, and nuances that may be challenging for those just starting to learn Swedish.

6. P3 Dokumentär

Recommended for: Advanced Swedish Speakers.

P3 Dokumentär is one of Sweden’s most popular podcasts, ideal for more advanced Swedish learners. The show explores significant, often gripping real-life events and stories, offering in-depth coverage of important topics. Each episode combines interviews, sound effects, and expert analysis to create an immersive and engaging narrative. Beyond its entertainment value, P3 Dokumentär provides a deeper understanding of Swedish society and history, making it an excellent resource for those wanting to explore contemporary issues in Sweden.

7. Alex & Sigges Podcast

Recommended for: Advanced Swedish Speakers.

Another popular podcast among Swedes is Alex & Sigges Podcast. Hosted by Alex Schulman and Sigge Eklund, this long-running podcast offers engaging, often humorous discussions on a wide range of topics, from personal stories and cultural commentary to deeper reflections on life. While it's not specifically designed for language learners, the conversational style and natural flow of the dialogue make it a valuable resource for more advanced Swedish learners. Listening to Alex & Sigge can help you grasp the nuances of everyday Swedish conversation, slang, and expressions, while also giving you insights into Swedish pop culture and current events.

Final Thoughts:

Podcasts are an invaluable tool for learning Swedish. They offer flexibility and accessibility, making it easy to fit language practice into your everyday life. By incorporating one or more of these podcasts into your learning routine, you’ll not only improve your language skills but also gain a deeper appreciation for Swedish culture. So grab your headphones, tune in, and start your journey toward fluency today!