Active Discourse

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A rolling conversation between a devoted Android user and a passionate Apple user. These two friends intend to explore the gray areas between their platforms and find agreement.

SeekAndDefine


    • Mar 30, 2022 LATEST EPISODE
    • infrequent NEW EPISODES
    • 47m AVG DURATION
    • 39 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Active Discourse

    Self-Taught Development

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2022 54:30


    Today on Active Discourse, after a quick recap of the recent Samsung and Apple events, Bo and Brett dive into how to become a self-taught developer. The two talk about how to avoid common issues like not knowing where to start and how to be excited about building small projects. The two close out the episode talking about how they are approaching their next projects. Links we discussed: Bo's first self-taught resource: Solo Learn Bo's second self-taught resource: Exercism Brett's first self-taught resource: LinkedIn Learning Brett's second self-taught resource: Hacking with SwiftUI Bo's Pick: Foundation Trailer Brett's Pick: Technology Connections: Dishwasher Saga Part 1 Brett's Pick: Technology Connections: Dishwasher Saga Part 2 Thanks for listening, if you would like to share any feedback, questions, or topic suggestions, feel free to let us on Twitter @ActiveDiscourse.

    Kicking off 2022

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 10, 2022 59:59


    Today on Active Discourse, Brett and Bo return from a long fall off and kick off 2022 with their particular inparticulars. We learn about Brett's new work Mac, Bo's sunrise clock, and so much more. Lastly, your hosts close out the episode by talking about their goals from 2021 and what they plan to do in 2022. Links we discussed: CGP-Grey Your Theme Bo's Pick: Joel Haver how he makes his videos Brett's Pick: Analogue Pocket Thanks for listening, if you would like to share any feedback, questions, or topic suggestions, feel free to let us on Twitter @ActiveDiscourse.

    Microsoft Surface Event 2021

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2021 44:28


    Today on Active Discourse, Bo and Brett have a lot of Microsoft launches to discuss. They dig into The Surface Duo 2, the Surface Pro 8, the Surface Laptop Studio, and briefly recap their thoughts on Windows 11. But first, Brett takes up issue with Microsoft's app icon design language… and he has a surprise iPhone purchase to talk about…

    iPhone 13 Launch and Impressions

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2021 40:58


    Today on Active Discourse, Brett has an iPhone purchase to reveal and an Apple event to discuss. But first, Bo discusses how his first month with the Galaxy Z Fold 3 went and Brett has launched Sneaker Tracker. Links we discussed: Sneaker Tracker Bo's Pick: Framework Laptop Brett's Pick: Stop the Madness Thanks for listening, if you would like to share any feedback, questions, or topic suggestions, feel free to let us on Twitter @ActiveDiscourse.

    Galaxy Z Fold 3 Reviewed

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 7, 2021 41:59


    Today on Active Discourse, after some brief follow up about Windows 11, Brett's iPhone Mini, and the show Cover Art, the show is all about the Galaxy Z Fold 3. Bo has been using his neat new folding phone for about 2 weeks now and he has opinions of the usefulness of the fold, the battery life, and what holding out for 3+ years feels like. Bo's Pick: Splitgate Brett's Pick: Pike Place Market Thanks for listening, if you would like to share any feedback, questions, or topic suggestions, feel free to let us on Twitter @ActiveDiscourse.

    Phones are Interesting Again

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 23, 2021 43:33


    Samsung released a slew of new products recently and we dive into them. But first, Bo has follow-up on OV Loop, Brett has endured a month with his nearly 4 year old iPhone, and Bo doesn't have a PC in his home that supports Windows 11. Bo has made a decision on his next phone purchase, so lets hear what he thinks about Samsung's latest products! Links we discussed: Sneaker Tracker TestFlight Signup Bo's Pick: Anything by Trevor Moore A Gallon of PCP Moon Bears Dinosaur Rap Trevor Moore Escapes from Mexico High In Church Brett's Pick: Bad Axe Throwing Thanks for listening, if you would like to share any feedback, questions, or topic suggestions, feel free to let us on Twitter @ActiveDiscourse.

    The Future of Brett's iPhone Mini (bonus)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2021 23:47


    Today on Active Discourse, Brett is feeling the burn of his iPhone 12 Mini battery and whines to Bo about it. Also, Bo has thought more about the Xperia and has reservations about it. The two briefly discuss their interest in Windows 365 and what life could be like with a real thin client. Lastly, we close out our bonus episodes with a "Would you rather" question. Thanks for listening, if you would like to share any feedback, questions, or topic suggestions, feel free to let us on Twitter @ActiveDiscourse.

    Excitement for Windows 11

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 19, 2021 45:00


    Today on Active Discourse, Bo and Brett discuss the TPM requirements and are concerned none of Bo's computers will officially support Windows 11. Then they discuss other positive feelins about the incoming Windows 11 update. But first they discuss Xbox Cloud Gaming and its competitors, a little bit about the Valve Steam Deck. And lastly, Brett realized that he could ask you to subscribe! Feel free to subscribe if that wasn't already obvious! If you would like to share any feedback, questions, or topic suggestions, feel free to let us on Twitter @ActiveDiscourse. Bo's Pick: Solasta: Crown of the Magister Brett's Pick: DIYPerks YouTube Channel

    WWDC 2021 - Async/Awaiting...

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2021 44:16


    Today on Active Discourse, Brett shares his WWDC excitement with Bo and Bo has another device he needs to wait months to receive. After WWDC, Bo and Brett discuss Sneaker Tracker and what Brett should do about backwards compatibility. Links we discussed: The Verge - WWDC 2021 Recap Windows Weekly 728 - Organic Rounded Corners Bo's Pick: Shady Rays Brett's Pick: Royal Blood - Typhoons Thanks for listening, if you would like to share any feedback, questions, or topic suggestions, feel free to let us on Twitter @ActiveDiscourse.

    Google IO 2021 - Don't Call it WearOS

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2021 44:21


    Today on Active Discourse, Bo and Brett discuss the biggest news from Google IO. But first, Brett has HomePods in his life again, Bo's search for MST continues, and Bo finally moved on from Overwatch… at least temporarily. And closing out the show, Bo has a sneak peek for the phone he will likely buy to replace his Samsung Galaxy S9+. We also have a lot of stickers. If you'd like one for free, reach out to us on Twitter @ActiveDiscourse Links we discussed: TagVault: Pet The Verge: Google IO Recap Bretts's Pick: Binging with Babish - Smoking on a Gas Grill Bo's Pick: Critical Role Thanks for listening, if you would like to share any feedback, questions, or topic suggestions, feel free to let us on Twitter @ActiveDiscourse.

    One Last LG and USB Rant

    Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2021 44:42


    Today on Active Discourse, we cover a whole lot of follow up ranging from renting camera lenses, to Bing, to Apple TV +. This episode features yet another dive into the confusing naming of USB 3.2. And finally… we are briefly nostalgic for LG's Phone business. Links we discussed: MKBHD's Tribute to LG Mr. Mobile's Tribute to LG Bo's Pick: Ludovico Einaudi - In a Time Lapse Brett's Pick: Defending Jacob Thanks for listening, if you would like to share any feedback, questions, or topic suggestions, feel free to let us on Twitter @ActiveDiscourse.

    Brett's Sony A7C

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2021 34:25


    Episode Notes First up, Bo discusses his use of Bing Rewards and makes a solid case for why you should switch. Then the two discuss Brett's new camera, the Sony A7C. Brett is excited he finally has a camera he can trust, they discuss why he decided to upgrade after only a year and the confusing line of high end Sony cameras.    Closing the episode out, Brett and Bo discuss a "Would You Rather" Question.  Thanks for listening, if you would like to share any feedback, questions, or topic suggestions, feel free to let us on Twitter at Active Discourse.

    Disregarding Viewing Distances

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2021 44:33


    Episode Notes Bo got a new TV and Brett has 20 questions for him about his new baby. But first we discuss long term follow up about Brett's AirPod's Pro and Apple Watch Series 6. And we very briefly discuss LG's future in the Smartphone world.    Bo's Pick: Timelapse of the Future Brett's Pick: 100 Days of SwiftUI Thanks for listening, if you would like to share any feedback, questions, or topic suggestions, feel free to let us on Twitter at Active Discourse.

    Bonus Content: CES, S21 Accessories and a USB Rant

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2021 20:50


    On our last episode, we went a little long and decided to cut our CES and S21 accessory conversation. But what we cut was a pretty good conversation and here now is a special bonus episode!   The Verge's Recap https://www.theverge.com/2021/1/16/22234287/the-tech-trends-we-saw-kick-off-at-ces-2021   Razer's Project Hazel https://www.razer.com/concepts/razer-project-hazel   LG's Rolling Phone https://www.theverge.com/2021/1/12/22226532/lgs-rollable-phone-launch-release-date-ces-2021

    Considering the Galaxy S21

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2021 44:00


    Back in full audio fidelity this time! Bo and Brett discuss the Galaxy S21 series! We had so much to discuss with the S21, Accessories, CES… and LG, that we split this episode in Two. Today we overview the Galaxy S21 and Bo's opinions of it. Brett is on the outside looking in and happy about the screen and colors of the S21. Bo is super bummed about the loss of MST. Thanks for listening, if you would like to share any feedback, questions, or topic suggestions, feel free to let us on Twitter at Active Discourse. Bo's intrigue in Ovloop Bo's Pick: JCS Criminal Psychology Brett's Pick: Schitt's Creek

    One Last Episode About 2020

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 10, 2021 41:57


    Episode Notes Today on Active Discourse, Bo and Brett discuss their "nostalgia"… in a sense… for 2020. Brett starts off the show sharing his thoughts on the M1 MacBook Air and a new member of the family… a MacBook Pro 16". Bo discovered the magic of emergency services.    And lastly, 2020 had one last minute casualty… The audio quality of this episode. We'll figure out the issue by next time and we will talk very soon about the first topic of 2021, the Samsung Galaxy S21.    Articles discussed in today's episode.   Apple Silicon Research https://mondaynote.com/arm-ed-mac-not-again-or-for-real-this-time-a3548eece86   The Apple/Google COVID Tracking System https://www.macrumors.com/2020/04/10/apple-google-covid-19-contact-tracing/   LG "won't give up" in mobile https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2020/01/lg-wont-give-up-on-smartphone-sales-hopes-for-profitability-by-2021/   LG Redoing everything again https://www.reuters.com/article/us-lg-electronics-smartphone/lg-shakes-up-loss-making-phone-business-to-outsource-lower-end-models-idUSKBN28H0VD   Flash is Dead in Safari https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2020/01/apple-seems-poised-to-end-adobe-flash-support-in-the-next-safari-release/   Flash is Dead Everywhere https://www.theverge.com/2020/12/31/22208190/adobe-flash-is-dead     Bo's Website: https://bolingen.me

    Next Gen Playstation and MacBooks

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 7, 2020 44:59


    Episode Notes Today on Active Discourse, Bo has the Playstation 5 in his home and we discuss his thoughts on the first batch of games, the controller and the future. Then Brett and Bo discuss the speed and power of the Apple Processor Transition, and Brett has a surprise purchase to discuss. But first, Brett wants to revisit his decision to purchase the standard iPhone 12. Bo's Pick: Nurse Jackie Brett's Pick: Jeopardy Celebrity Jeopardy link 1 Celebrity Jeopardy link 2 Celebrity Jeopardy link 3

    iphone playstation macbook next gen playstation
    Overthinking the iPhone 12

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2020 44:45


    A few weeks ago, Brett bought an iPhone. Today, you finally get to hear the conversation Bo and Brett had shortly after the October iPhone event.     But first, the two have feedback about their wearables and whether they decided to return them or not. And they lead into the iPhone event by… talking about Sony's Smartphones, what they are and why they haven't bought one yet.   Brett and Bo discuss MKBHD's video on Sony.    Bo's Pick: The Boy's   Brett's Pick: Tile Tracker

    PS5 and Xbox Series Whatever

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2020 42:54


    All summer long we have been hoping to bring you this episode, and today it has finally arrived! Thanks to Microsoft and Sony for revealing the final details about their next generation consoles. Brett and Bo discuss the value proposition, the marketing strategy, and what they each plan to buy. Voting Resources at Vote.org Brett's Pick: Hogwarts Legacy Bo’s Pick: A surprise! Please feel free to send us any feedback, questions, or topic suggestions on Twitter @ActiveDiscourse.

    Galaxy Watch and Apple Watch 2020

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2020 44:46


    Last week, Apple's event triggered Brett to buy an Apple Watch… and surprisingly Bo also decided to buy a new watch as well! The two discuss what their history is with wearable devices and why they decided to buy this year. But first, we follow up on the new season of Infinity Train, Fortnite, AirPods, and a quick note about iOS 14. Lastly, very soon we will have a bonus September episode coming your way where Bo and Brett discuss the next generation of the Xbox and PlayStation. Bo's Pick:Tenet Brett's Pick: Apple Music (iOS 14 Edition) Please feel free to send us any feedback, questions, or topic suggestions on Twitter @ActiveDiscourse.

    Who Are We To Question Naming Conventions?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2020 44:40


    Lots to cover today! Bo and Brett quickly discuss the Google Pixel 4A, the pre-release news of the Microsoft Surface Duo, and introduce Bo's Armageddon with migrating away from Google Play Music. Then the main topics of the day, the two discuss the Samsung August 2020 Unpacked event and introduce Apple's controversy preventing xCloud and rejecting Fortnite from the App Store. Please feel free to send us any feedback, questions, or topic suggestions on Twitter @ActiveDiscourse. We have free stickers to give out as well, DM us on Twitter to get your sticker! Recommended Reading: Galaxy Note 10 3D Scanner Demo Joshua Weissman's Burger Buns

    Next Gen Console Cold War

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2020 44:48


    Thanks to Microsoft and Sony taking their sweet time fully announcing their next Generation consoles, yet again we don't have a full picture to review. However Brett is upset about this, Bo attempts to ease him off the cliff and they both some how end up talking about the next generation of consoles anyway. Brett also setup a new router since last we spoke and he has… complaints. We close out with a quick preview for the August 2020 Unpacked Event and picks. Bo's Pick: The Outer Worlds Brett's Pick: Standford University - CS193p Free programming course from Spring 2020 Please feel free to send us any feedback, questions, or topic suggestions on Twitter @ActiveDiscourse.

    The Rightful King (WWDC 2020)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2020 39:38


    Last week was Apple's WWDC week and the we discuss the ramifications of Apple deciding to part ways with Intel. But first, Brett has a new app to track his Shoes, Bo is impressed with the PS5 console design, and we have new Special Edition Album art to discuss. Please feel free to send us any feedback, questions, or topic suggestions on Twitter @ActiveDiscourse. Picks: Windows Weekly episode 678: No Code Left Behind Infinity Train

    Fancy/Clicky Things

    Play Episode Listen Later May 16, 2020 64:54


    In March Apple announced expanded cursor support for iPadOS and a new Magic Keyboard case to go with it. At that same time, Bo purchased a Keychron K4. Brett and Bo have had about a month of use with both devices and have a review and opinions to share for each. Thanks for listening to Active Discourse. We'll be back next month to discuss the predictions for WWDC as well as outcome of WWDC. But in the meantime, we are always interested in any feedback, questions, or topic requests so feel free to send us an email at ActiveDiscourse@icloud.com or send us a tweet at ActiveDiscourse. Android TV to be rebranded as Google TVKeychron K4Windows PowerToys

    Technology Wishlist (2020)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2020 58:32


    Hello again! We split our recording session into two episodes this month. We start every episode with follow-up and this is no exception. We start with a quick discussing the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite.And then we dig into what Bo and Brett hope to see out of their respective platforms in 2020. Brett goes on a few brief rants and Bo is nostalgic for the good ole days. And both believe that their music apps of choice have a lot of room for improvement. We have stickers available and for free. Reach out to us via email or via Twitter to let us know if you’d like one. While you are there please feel free to let us know any comments, feedback, questions, or if you would just like to say hi from Quarantine, Please feel free to email us at ActiveDiscourse@icloud.com or follow ActiveDiscourse on twitter.Links: Subscribe to iTunes Match Brett’s Pick: Upgrade #293 Opt In Your Face Bo’s Pick:HBO Intro - Behind the Scenes

    Apple News+ Reviewed

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 19, 2020 43:35


    Month 2 of #QuarantineContentLast month Brett started his free trial to Apple News+ and today he shares his full review of the service. Apple released a new iPhone SE and OnePlus released their OnePlus 8 series. And lastly, Microsoft’s Chrome-based Edge or “Credge” as it is sometimes called, took the second place spot in desktop web traffic. Bo and Brett had a lot of follow-up and small-topics this month. But they also had a full segment lined up as well. So the episode was split this month and you’ll get a second dose of Active Discourse next week. We have stickers available and for free. Reach out to us via email or via Twitter to let us know if you’d like one. While you are there please feel free to let us know any comments, feedback, questions, or if you would just like to say hi from Quarantine, Please feel free to email us at ActiveDiscourse@icloud.com or follow ActiveDiscourse on twitter.

    New Consoles and Macs in Quarantine

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 21, 2020 74:09


    After a brief update about Covid-19, Bo and Brett attempt to distract you from the worries of the world by talking about the tech news of March 2020. The duo discuss the early confirmed specs of next generation gaming consoles, specifically regarding backwards compatibility and sheer speed. Apple also recently released a new iPad, MacBook Air and a surprise launch of cursor support for iPadOS. Bo and Brett wish you support and safety during this strange time in our society. We still have stickers available, please feel free to reach out if you'd like one!Also, if you would like to share any comments, feedback, questions, or if you would just like to say hi from Quarantine, Please feel free to email us at ActiveDiscourse@icloud.com or follow ActiveDiscourse on twitter.Let us know what hobbies you going to dig into during the quarantine?Links!Magic Keyboard and Trackpad for iPad Pro DemoLoading Screenshttps://kurzgesagt.org/Kurzgesagt: Coronaviruse Explained & What You Should DoKurzgesagt: MicrobiomeKurzgesagt: Black Hole in Your Pocket

    Leap Day Bonus Episode

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 29, 2020 39:06


    Happy Leap Day 2020! Bo and Brett each had a surprise topic to talk about. Bo's girlfriend bought an Apple Watch and she uses it in a unique environment that leave both Bo and Brett unsure how it will hold up.And we made Holographic Stickers! If you would like one, reach out to us at ActiveDiscourse@icloud.com or on Twitter @ActiveDiscoursePICKLE RICK!!!

    The Galaxy S20 Choices

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2020 58:02


    The day has come, the Samsung Galaxy S20 is real and ready to order, but will Bo order one? We dig into a few alternatives to the Galaxy S20 series, Brett share his opinion on how the S20 will market against the competitors, and we wrap up with some cats and cameras.   Please feel free to share your opinions, feedback, or topic requests to ActiveDiscourse@icloud.com or on Twitter @ActiveDiscourse   PS- We are curious to know how frequently you upgrade your phone?

    Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Revisited

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 8, 2020 32:05


    Galaxy Tab S6 Revisited February 2020 We last spoke about the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 in October after Bo made his sudden purchase. Today, Brett has follow up questions to address. The two discuss how Bo uses his Galaxy Tab S6 on a day to day basis, the apps that grace his tablet, and opinions on the future of Android Tablets. We now own ActiveDiscourse.com, feel free to check out our alpha site! We are also now on Twitter, follow us at ActiveDiscourse.Please feel free to share your opinions, feedback, or topic requests to ActiveDiscourse@icloud.com

    CES 2020: Now I’m Thinking This is a Joke

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 20, 2020 59:40


    Bo and Brett have opinions to share about the weird products that appeared at CES 2020. They discuss the small quality of life updates for the Nest Home hub, all the great Samsung TV’s, and the Razer Kishi. Closing the episode out, Bo reminds us of the very use-case specific devices Charmin brought to CES. Please feel free to share your opinions, feedback, or topic requests to ActiveDiscourse@icloud.comPS - We are also curious to know what the industry standard alternative to Gmail is. Let us know!

    Lady in a Tube Reviewed

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2019 37:15


    Brett bought and returned a HomePod and is fired up about it. Brett triggers Siri several times throughout the episode, don't listen to this episode on a loud speaker for your own sanity. Bo shares his condolences. Please feel free to share your opinions, feedback, or topic requests by emailing us at ActiveDiscourse@icloud.comThis episode uses the Light Mode version of our artwork. Enjoy!

    Nostalgia Vol. 2009

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2019 72:34


    Bo and Brett get nostalgic about the 2010s. They dig into the archives from 2009 and evaluate how technology has changed since. They discuss the explosion of Netflix, the rivalry between Apple and Google, and the transformation Microsoft underwent throughout the decade. Please feel free to share your opinions, feedback, or topic requests by emailing us at ActiveDiscourse@icloud.com

    2019 In Review

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 24, 2019 82:06


    Bo and Brett discuss the most important stories of 2019 and the stories they expect will define 2020.Please feel free to share your opinions, feedback, or topic requests by emailing us at ActiveDiscourse@icloud.comPS - We recorded this before Samsung announced their Galaxy S9 beta plans. We'll follow up next month.

    Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Reviewed

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2019 75:42


    Bo bought a Galaxy Tab S6 not only for himself, but for you! Brett attempts to understand and break Bo's allegiance to the Android tablet. Here is our review.Please feel free to share your opinions, feedback, or topic requests by emailing us at ActiveDiscourse@icloud.com

    iOS 13 Hesitation

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2019 13:59


    Bo hears out Brett's concerns for updating his devices to iOS 13. They discuss the poor beta cycle, the unusual release pattern for iOS 13 and 13.1. Finally they discuss Brett's dream OS release cycle.Please feel free to share your opinions, feedback, or topic requests by emailing us at ActiveDiscourse@icloud.com

    Last Leg of the 3-Year Upgrade Cycle

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2019 50:57


    Bo and Brett discuss our surprises of the September 2019 Apple Event. Bo has a surprise announcement for Brett. Brett is trying to resist the iPhone 11 Pro reality distortion field. And they both have gripes they'd like to discuss.Also, please feel free to share your opinions, feedback, or topic requests by emailing us at ActiveDiscourse@icloud.com

    Whats Old is New Again

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2019 50:44


    We focus on the Samsung Galaxy Note 10. What do we like, dislike, and at least a little bit on the hypocritical loss of the headphone jack.Also, please feel free to share your opinions, feedback, or topic requests by emailing us at ActiveDiscourse@icloud.com

    Summer 2019

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2019 47:31


    Active Discourse is a technology podcast series focusing on the grey areas between the Apple and Android ecosystems.In this first episode, your co-hosts introduce themselves and their allegiances. The main topic this season is to discuss the 3 things each co-host is most excited about coming to their platform this fall.We wrap up the episode by discussing Brett’s completed Pixel 3a experiment and Bo’s failed gesture experiment.

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