Podcast appearances and mentions of katie dudas

This week on AwesomeCast, we dive into tech, history, and a little pumpkin spice! We're joined by Virginia Montanez — acclaimed writer, author, and creator of the PastFinders app, which turns everyday walks into immersive historical tours. We also talk: • Apple Watch's new “Workout Buddy” voice coaching (is it helpful or just annoying?) • iJustine's epic iPhone 1 vs iPhone 15 photo test • Using AI to turn pet pics into paintings via iOS 17's Image Playground • Goldfish + Dunkin = Pumpkin Spice Grahams?! Taste-tested on the show!

Apple's September event brought us the iPhone 17 family, AirPods Pro 3, and the Apple Watch Ultra 3, packed with features for creators and adventurers alike. Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar break down what's exciting (and what's eyebrow-raising) in this week's AwesomeCast. We also dive into Sesame Street moving its library to YouTube and this year's holiday LEGO highlights, including the Gingerbread AT-AT and a $1,000 UCS Death Star.

Apple's September event brought us the iPhone 17 family, AirPods Pro 3, and the Apple Watch Ultra 3, packed with features for creators and adventurers alike. Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar break down what's exciting (and what's eyebrow-raising) in this week's AwesomeCast. We also dive into Sesame Street moving its library to YouTube and this year's holiday LEGO highlights, including the Gingerbread AT-AT and a $1,000 UCS Death Star.

This week on AwesomeCast 748, hosts Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar break down the latest in tech, gadgets, and geek news: • AI tools for creators: why Opus Pro beats CapCut for quick, high-quality clips • Instagram's new Picture-in-Picture mode for Reels • Testing Amazon Lens Live for smarter shopping • Retro gaming hype with the Mortal Kombat Legacy Kollection and a new He-Man beat-'em-up • Apple event preview: iPhone 17 Air, AirPods 3 with live translation, and more • Plus: Grogu's big-screen debut, Baja SAE on PBS, and our Awesome Things of the Week

This week on AwesomeCast 748, hosts Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar break down the latest in tech, gadgets, and geek news: • AI tools for creators: why Opus Pro beats CapCut for quick, high-quality clips • Instagram's new Picture-in-Picture mode for Reels • Testing Amazon Lens Live for smarter shopping • Retro gaming hype with the Mortal Kombat Legacy Kollection and a new He-Man beat-'em-up • Apple event preview: iPhone 17 Air, AirPods 3 with live translation, and more • Plus: Grogu's big-screen debut, Baja SAE on PBS, and our Awesome Things of the Week

AwesomeCast 747 – Floating Bars, Hello Kitty Games, and AI Colleagues Hosts Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar are joined by Kit Mueller of SkillBuilder.io to explore the latest tech, gaming, and Pittsburgh innovations. • Pittsburgh's new Riverlife “Shore Thing” floating pop-up on the Allegheny, run by Brew Gentlemen. More info • Nintendo Switch's Hello Kitty and Friends: Freeze Tag Party launching Nov 2025. Game details • AppleCare One: bundling device protection under one plan. Apple announcement • Google Gemini's new Flash Image editor for smarter, consistent AI photos. Ars Technica coverage • Chachi's Video Game Minute: Fallout Season 2 trailer + LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight reveal. • Viral cat-subway build, Apple Watch + AI coaching rumors, and more. • Kit Mueller's spotlight: how SkillBuilder.io is powering “AI colleagues” across Pittsburgh organizations.

AwesomeCast 747 – Floating Bars, Hello Kitty Games, and AI Colleagues Hosts Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar are joined by Kit Mueller of SkillBuilder.io to explore the latest tech, gaming, and Pittsburgh innovations. • Pittsburgh's new Riverlife “Shore Thing” floating pop-up on the Allegheny, run by Brew Gentlemen. More info • Nintendo Switch's Hello Kitty and Friends: Freeze Tag Party launching Nov 2025. Game details • AppleCare One: bundling device protection under one plan. Apple announcement • Google Gemini's new Flash Image editor for smarter, consistent AI photos. Ars Technica coverage • Chachi's Video Game Minute: Fallout Season 2 trailer + LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight reveal. • Viral cat-subway build, Apple Watch + AI coaching rumors, and more. • Kit Mueller's spotlight: how SkillBuilder.io is powering “AI colleagues” across Pittsburgh organizations.

Cohosts Michael Sorg and Dave Podnar welcome Josh Dorfman, Co-founder, CEO, and host of SuperCool, to talk about the adoption era of climate tech—where real solutions are cutting emissions and saving money today. Josh shares insights from BrainBox AI's energy-saving building systems, Google's Project Sunroof, and even a Pennsylvania school district saving big with solar and electric school buses. We also dive into Josh's own startup, Planted Materials, building carbon-negative housing panels. In the second half, we geek out over: • McDonald's TMNT × Hello Kitty Happy Meal toys • A Sam's Club pumpkin diorama that's perfect for spooky season • YouTube's new Gemini “Ask About This Video” AI button (screenshot demo) • And the latest in gaming with Chachi's Video Game Minute, including Fast & Furious Arcade and Red Dead Redemption 2 sales milestones. We wrap with some Patreon-exclusive extras: the ElliQ companion robot, Discord's new “Play Instantly” feature, and a behind-the-scenes look at “poddy editing.” Stay tuned for optimism, gadgets, and a reminder that climate tech is cooler—and closer—than you think

Hosts Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar are back with another fun-filled episode of AwesomeCast, bringing their favorite geeky picks and tech stories of the week from Pittsburgh and beyond.

Hosts Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar are back with another fun-filled episode of AwesomeCast, bringing their favorite geeky picks and tech stories of the week from Pittsburgh and beyond.

In this week's tech and pop culture roundup, the crew swaps travel tales, dives into toy news, and tries out new gadgets. Hear about a massive indoor amusement park experience, a quirky calendar mash-up, a McDonald's Happy Meal toy line combining pop culture icons, a nostalgic Mac-style USB-C hub, live object recognition from a mobile AI assistant, a hands-on paper airplane STEM kit, and a retro-style college football mobile game. ⸻ Stories & Gadgets Covered Pop Culture & Experiences • Indoor amusement park adventure – Detailed trip report from a multi-level shopping and entertainment complex featuring a Nickelodeon-themed park, roller coasters, character meet-and-greets, a DreamWorks water park, an indoor ski slope, a two-story toy store, mini-golf, and a giant Ferris wheel with skyline views. • Cat Wars calendar – A humorous monthly mash-up of cats and sci-fi themes, sparking debates over AI vs. Photoshop image origins. • McDonald's Happy Meal crossover toys – Upcoming U.S. launch of a 12-figure collaboration between Hello Kitty characters and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, sparking collector excitement. • Positive pet stories – A heartwarming charity calendar featuring a wheelchair-using dog, plus a social media find following two canine companions traveling the country in a truck. Gadgets & Tech • Retro Macintosh-style USB-C hub – A Kickstarter device styled after the original Macintosh, designed to sit on top of a Mac mini. Adds a 5-inch 720p display and extra ports (USB-A/C, HDMI, audio, card reader). Can function as a standalone USB-C hub for other devices. • AI visual recognition tool – Live camera mode in a mobile AI assistant app that identifies objects in real time and engages in conversational follow-ups for more detail. • Klutz Big Book of Paper Airplanes – A kid-friendly STEM activity book with 10 airplane designs, 40 sheets of colorful paper, folding instructions, and tips for flight performance. • Retro Bowl College Edition mobile game – An 8/16-bit-style football simulator with both arcade play and team management elements, including a full roster of college programs. AI & Workflow • Practical uses for AI tools, including weekly automated reminders for content performance reviews, recipe generation based on available ingredients, and setting up custom assistants for specific research or monitoring tasks.

Join Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar for another wild ride through the latest in tech, geek culture, and digital oddities. From chainsawed sandwiches and pygmy hippos to new AI-powered tools from Google and fun gaming tie-ins, AwesomeCast 743 dives into the fun, weird, and sometimes terrifying world of tech. Whether you're curious about Google Search's AI makeover, craving a McDonald's-themed Joy-Con fry holder, or wondering why a zoo staged a fake hippo escape with an inflatable costume — we've got you covered.

Join Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar for another wild ride through the latest in tech, geek culture, and digital oddities. From chainsawed sandwiches and pygmy hippos to new AI-powered tools from Google and fun gaming tie-ins, AwesomeCast 743 dives into the fun, weird, and sometimes terrifying world of tech. Whether you're curious about Google Search's AI makeover, craving a McDonald's-themed Joy-Con fry holder, or wondering why a zoo staged a fake hippo escape with an inflatable costume — we've got you covered.

This week on AwesomeCast, we're diving into the future of visual technology with Wally Haas, the founder of Avalon Holographics. From real, light-field holographic displays to the practical applications in medicine, defense, and entertainment, this episode is a glimpse at the future of immersive 3D visualization. We also break down tech updates from the cosplay-packed halls of Tekko 2025 in Pittsburgh, explore camera app alternatives like PostPic, and check out the latest headlines in gaming with the Chachi Video Game Minute. Whether you're curious about holograms, anime conventions, or how your iPhone can become a pro-level camera, this geeky roundtable has you covered!

In this episode of AwesomeCast, co-hosts Michael Sorg and Dave Podnar dive into the latest tech trends, gadgets, and geek culture from Pittsburgh and beyond. Sorg shares a hands-on review of the Backbone USB-C mobile game controller, and Dave unveils a jaw-dropping 115-inch Hisense Mini-LED TV that costs as much as a car. We explore tech headlines including the consolidation of ChromeOS and Android, Google's AI-powered NotebookLM, and how Xbox is pushing console-less gaming with Fire TV bundles. Plus, hear from Intern John about Picklesburgh adventures and travel plans, and enjoy a rapid-fire roundup in Chachi's Video Game Minute, featuring a major shakeup on Steam and FBI action on ROM sites.

In Episode 740 of AwesomeCast, hosts Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar go full geek across Pittsburgh happenings, practical gadgets, and a dash of nostalgia. From the chaotic charm of Picklesburgh to high-tech fire truck cameras, we spotlight local events, incredible DIY tools, and how Pokémon made its way to the Pope. Discover how furries raised nearly $90,000 for a cat rescue, explore Chuck E. Cheese's adult-only arcade concept, and find out if AirPods Pro can double as hearing aids. Plus, LEGO Babylon 5, TSA updates, and more tech-fueled fun.

In Episode 740 of AwesomeCast, hosts Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar go full geek across Pittsburgh happenings, practical gadgets, and a dash of nostalgia. From the chaotic charm of Picklesburgh to high-tech fire truck cameras, we spotlight local events, incredible DIY tools, and how Pokémon made its way to the Pope. Discover how furries raised nearly $90,000 for a cat rescue, explore Chuck E. Cheese's adult-only arcade concept, and find out if AirPods Pro can double as hearing aids. Plus, LEGO Babylon 5, TSA updates, and more tech-fueled fun.

In this eclectic and geek-fueled episode of AwesomeCast, Michael Sorg and Katie Dudas (with a quick cameo from Dave Podnar) dive into everything from espresso martinis and new podcasts to the latest in airport infrastructure and retro gaming. Plus, get a firsthand review of Google's experimental AI fashion app and marvel at micro-sized McDonald's nostalgia. This week's Chachi Says Video Game Minute also brings a science twist to gaming's effects on stress and autism research. From Lego X-Files to Denver's Eye of Sauron, it's an awesome mix of tech, nostalgia, and the downright bizarre.

In this eclectic and geek-fueled episode of AwesomeCast, Michael Sorg and Katie Dudas (with a quick cameo from Dave Podnar) dive into everything from espresso martinis and new podcasts to the latest in airport infrastructure and retro gaming. Plus, get a firsthand review of Google's experimental AI fashion app and marvel at micro-sized McDonald's nostalgia. This week's Chachi Says Video Game Minute also brings a science twist to gaming's effects on stress and autism research. From Lego X-Files to Denver's Eye of Sauron, it's an awesome mix of tech, nostalgia, and the downright bizarre.

In this action-packed episode of AwesomeCast, hosts Michael Sorg and Katie Dudas recap their high-tech adventures at the Formula SAE EV event at Michigan International Speedway. From streaming challenges and tech problem-solving to a surprise appearance by a lizard named Hank, it's a wild ride through the world of engineering and media production. Plus, we get geeky with a new LEGO robotics set for kids, Dragon's Lair nostalgia on Netflix, cutting-edge photo apps, and a Godzilla-themed theater experience!

In this action-packed episode of AwesomeCast, hosts Michael Sorg and Katie Dudas recap their high-tech adventures at the Formula SAE EV event at Michigan International Speedway. From streaming challenges and tech problem-solving to a surprise appearance by a lizard named Hank, it's a wild ride through the world of engineering and media production. Plus, we get geeky with a new LEGO robotics set for kids, Dragon's Lair nostalgia on Netflix, cutting-edge photo apps, and a Godzilla-themed theater experience!

Live from the Hampton Inn in Adrian, Michigan, the AwesomeCast crew brings another jam-packed episode of tech talk and geeky goodness! Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar discuss their latest adventures covering the Formula SAE Electric Vehicle competition, highlighting the gear upgrades and behind-the-scenes prep for video production and livestreaming. Katie showcases her new favorite budget-friendly sunglasses from Knockaround, with cool licensed designs like Hello Kitty, Ninja Turtles, and Transformers. Dave dives deep into Adobe's Project Indigo, an experimental mobile camera app offering advanced AI photography features like noise reduction and reflection removal—perfect for iPhone shutterbugs. Plus, the team reacts to Honda's e-quad delivery vehicle that skirts regulation by legally qualifying as an e-bike, and shares a spooky tech conspiracy from the Denver International Airport.

Live from the Hampton Inn in Adrian, Michigan, the AwesomeCast crew brings another jam-packed episode of tech talk and geeky goodness! Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar discuss their latest adventures covering the Formula SAE Electric Vehicle competition, highlighting the gear upgrades and behind-the-scenes prep for video production and livestreaming. Katie showcases her new favorite budget-friendly sunglasses from Knockaround, with cool licensed designs like Hello Kitty, Ninja Turtles, and Transformers. Dave dives deep into Adobe's Project Indigo, an experimental mobile camera app offering advanced AI photography features like noise reduction and reflection removal—perfect for iPhone shutterbugs. Plus, the team reacts to Honda's e-quad delivery vehicle that skirts regulation by legally qualifying as an e-bike, and shares a spooky tech conspiracy from the Denver International Airport.

In this special on-location episode of AwesomeCast 735, recorded live from the Hilton Garden Inn in Ann Arbor during the SAE Autodrive Challenge, Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar are joined by Pittsburgh-based cinematographer Scotty Swemba. The crew dives into new tech discoveries including the Bing AI video creator, Apple's latest game studio acquisition, and Katie's OmniBreeze fan obsession. They also explore how Scotty brings a cinematic eye to live productions, including their evolving video work for SAE events. Plus: robot droids that follow you, iPhone filmmaking in Hollywood, and the return of Cat Wars. It's geeky, techy, sweaty (thanks to the heat), and wonderfully weird — exactly what you expect from AwesomeCast. Find more at AwesomeCast.com and SorgatronMedia.com ⸻

In this special on-location episode of AwesomeCast 735, recorded live from the Hilton Garden Inn in Ann Arbor during the SAE Autodrive Challenge, Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar are joined by Pittsburgh-based cinematographer Scotty Swemba. The crew dives into new tech discoveries including the Bing AI video creator, Apple's latest game studio acquisition, and Katie's OmniBreeze fan obsession. They also explore how Scotty brings a cinematic eye to live productions, including their evolving video work for SAE events. Plus: robot droids that follow you, iPhone filmmaking in Hollywood, and the return of Cat Wars. It's geeky, techy, sweaty (thanks to the heat), and wonderfully weird — exactly what you expect from AwesomeCast. Find more at AwesomeCast.com and SorgatronMedia.com ⸻

On this episode of AwesomeCast, Michael Sorg, Dave Podnar, and Katie Dudas dive into geeky goodness and tech trends with plenty of laughs and thoughtful discussion. Dave unboxes his TMS Vegas 2025 swag bag and shares insights on community-building through podcast merchandise. Katie introduces the Merlin Bird ID app by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, perfect for identifying bird sounds offline. Sorg finally rides Kennywood's Steel Curtain coaster and gives us a coaster-lover's review. The crew also discusses the importance of game ownership vs. price hikes in Chachi's Video Game Minute rant. Plus, there's a touching moment celebrating the engineer who saved Apollo 13. They close with a look at Surf Social, a new content aggregation app from the creators of Flipboard, and preview upcoming projects in video streaming, pro wrestling, and tech production. Subscribe and share the awesome: www.AwesomeCast.com

On this episode of AwesomeCast, Michael Sorg, Dave Podnar, and Katie Dudas dive into geeky goodness and tech trends with plenty of laughs and thoughtful discussion. Dave unboxes his TMS Vegas 2025 swag bag and shares insights on community-building through podcast merchandise. Katie introduces the Merlin Bird ID app by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, perfect for identifying bird sounds offline. Sorg finally rides Kennywood's Steel Curtain coaster and gives us a coaster-lover's review. The crew also discusses the importance of game ownership vs. price hikes in Chachi's Video Game Minute rant. Plus, there's a touching moment celebrating the engineer who saved Apollo 13. They close with a look at Surf Social, a new content aggregation app from the creators of Flipboard, and preview upcoming projects in video streaming, pro wrestling, and tech production. Subscribe and share the awesome: www.AwesomeCast.com

It's a special Mother's Day edition of AwesomeCast! Host Michael Sorg is joined by his mom, Cathy—better known as Mom Sorg—for a heartfelt, humorous, and insightful conversation spanning decades of tech, theme parks, drafting, accessibility, and family stories. From tales of riding the Turtle at Kennywood to helping design parts of Epcot's Spaceship Earth, Mom Sorg shares her pioneering journey as a female drafter and AutoCAD specialist in the 1970s and ‘80s. The duo also explore how Cathy's work inspired Sorg's lifelong tech passion and reflect on accessibility in theme parks and the evolution of educational inclusion. Plus, the Chachi Says Video Game Minute brings hot headlines, from GTA 6's record-breaking trailer to surprising job interview trends involving gaming.

On this episode of AwesomeCast, the crew returns after a stormy week in Pittsburgh that knocked out power citywide! Sorg, Katie, and Dave catch up on their tech-filled travels, including live streaming Baja SAE Arizona and rock shopping in Tucson. Katie dives into her Star Wars-themed social media marketing for Mancini's Bread on May the 4th, while Dave covers a landmark ruling that now allows Kindle and Epic Games to link to outside stores on iOS, changing Apple's walled garden. We highlight local innovations in 3D printing at Pittsburgh International Airport and discuss Slate's $20K no-frills electric truck. Plus, Chachi gives us the scoop on the GTA VI release date, Google Gemini's Pokémon Blue win, and a surprising new Call of Duty skin. Power Outages & Recovery: Last week's show canceled due to severe Pittsburgh storms and widespread outages. Pittsburgh Marathon: Katie and Dave recap their marathon adventures and Steel Challenge medals. Baja SAE Arizona Recap: Sorg's team live-streams 4-hour Baja Endurance event. Overcame dust storms and wireless interference. Intern John, student volunteers, and Enjoy Wrestling's Scotty Swemba helped make it happen. May the 4th at Mancini's Bread: Katie's Grogu marketing campaign and Star Wars-themed bread humor. Apple App Store Ruling: Kindle now links directly to outside purchases. Impacts Epic Games and Apple's 30% cut model. 3D-Printed Military Parts: Air Force and SAE engineers save costs by 3D printing aircraft drip pans. Local manufacturing efforts at Neighborhood 91 near Pittsburgh Airport. Slate's Minimalist Electric Truck: $20K US-made EV with no paint, touchscreen, or stereo. Ideal for DIY modders and city use. ChachiSays Video Game Minute Highlights : Call of Duty: Seth Rogen announced as new skin in Black Ops 6. AI vs. Pokémon: Google Gemini 2.5 beats Pokémon Blue, edging out Claude AI. GTA VI Release Date: Now officially May 26, 2026, disappointing fans

Get geeky and get awesome as the AwesomeCast crew dives into home dessert tech, theme park tricks, and tech-infused Vegas experiences!

Get ready for a theme park tech adventure and some unexpected ambient Apple features in this special birthday episode!

Get ready for a theme park tech adventure and some unexpected ambient Apple features in this special birthday episode!

Join co-hosts Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar as they get geeky and awesome with this week's wild ride of tech, pop culture, and AI-fueled adventures.

oin co-hosts Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar as they get geeky and awesome with this week's wild ride of tech, pop culture, and AI-fueled adventures.

tech news, pittsburgh, podcast, social media, sorg

This week's episode brought to you by Indy Wrestling US, Slice on Broadway, Sidekick Media Services and listeners like you at www.Patreon.com/AwesomeCast Join Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar as they dive into the latest tech trends, nostalgic throwbacks, and futuristic AI innovations! This episode is packed with retro tech talk, budget-friendly gadgets, and mind-blowing AI developments.

This week's episode brought to you by Indy Wrestling US, Slice on Broadway, Sidekick Media Services and listeners like you at www.Patreon.com/AwesomeCast Join Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar as they dive into the latest tech trends, nostalgic throwbacks, and futuristic AI innovations! This episode is packed with retro tech talk, budget-friendly gadgets, and mind-blowing AI developments.

This week's episode brought to you by Indy Wrestling US, Slice on Broadway, Sidekick Media Services and listeners like you at www.Patreon.com/AwesomeCast Join Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar as they dive into the latest in tech, gadgets, and geeky goodness on AwesomeCast! This week, we cover cutting-edge sleep tracking apps, a unique festival gadget that keeps you connected with friends, the revival of TweetDeck for BlueSky, and Toyota's ambitious vision for the future of urban mobility. Plus, we explore AI-powered face swaps, new iPads, and a social media alternative for images and videos.

This week's episode brought to you by Indy Wrestling US, Slice on Broadway, Sidekick Media Services and listeners like you at www.Patreon.com/AwesomeCast Join Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar as they dive into the latest in tech, gadgets, and geeky goodness on AwesomeCast! This week, we cover cutting-edge sleep tracking apps, a unique festival gadget that keeps you connected with friends, the revival of TweetDeck for BlueSky, and Toyota's ambitious vision for the future of urban mobility. Plus, we explore AI-powered face swaps, new iPads, and a social media alternative for images and videos.

This week's episode brought to you by Indy Wrestling US, Slice on Broadway, Sidekick Media Services and listeners like you at www.Patreon.com/AwesomeCast Here's a detailed podcast description for this episode of AwesomeCast, including bulleted summaries of the news stories and gadgets discussed, along with relevant links extracted from the spreadsheet: Hosts: Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar Welcome to another episode of AwesomeCast, where we dive into the latest in tech, gadgets, and digital trends! This week, we cover a range of topics, from near-Earth asteroids to the latest iPhone video tech and even a trip down memory lane with old-school memory cards. Let's get into it!

This week's episode brought to you by Indy Wrestling US, Slice on Broadway, Sidekick Media Services and listeners like you at www.Patreon.com/AwesomeCast Here's a detailed podcast description for this episode of AwesomeCast, including bulleted summaries of the news stories and gadgets discussed, along with relevant links extracted from the spreadsheet: Hosts: Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar Welcome to another episode of AwesomeCast, where we dive into the latest in tech, gadgets, and digital trends! This week, we cover a range of topics, from near-Earth asteroids to the latest iPhone video tech and even a trip down memory lane with old-school memory cards. Let's get into it!

This week's episode brought to you by Indy Wrestling US, Slice on Broadway, Sidekick Media Services and listeners like you at www.Patreon.com/AwesomeCast In this episode of AwesomeCast, the crew dives into the latest tech trends, AI tools, podcasting platforms, and some innovative gadgets. Sorg records live from Ann Arbor, Michigan, testing Riverside FM as a podcasting solution while discussing its features, costs, and alternatives like Zencastr. Other highlights include: A game-changing Kindle accessory that makes reading hands-free E-ZPass expanding beyond toll roads to parking, gas stations, and even drive-thrus A new AI-powered voicemail service for podcasters MagSafe hacks that let you stack phones and mount devices creatively Free video games and how to maximize your digital library

This week's episode brought to you by Indy Wrestling US, Slice on Broadway, Sidekick Media Services and listeners like you at www.Patreon.com/AwesomeCast Here's a detailed description and bulleted summary for the AwesomeCast Episode 715 podcast episode, leveraging SEO and including links from the provided show notes spreadsheet. AwesomeCast Episode 715: Dive into our first episode of the year as hosts Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar bring you the best of tech, gadgets, and nostalgia! From unique YouTube channels and innovative phone accessories to retro CES tech and the quirky Kmart music archive, this episode is packed with fun insights and geeky updates. Don't miss our new awesome throwback segment featuring a 2010 CES recap and some incredible photography tools! Segment Highlights: Mystery Science Theater 3000 on YouTube • Rediscover Mystery Science Theater 3000 with their YouTube channel's ongoing live streams, featuring classic episodes, riff tracks, and behind-the-scenes documentaries. • Perfect for background noise or nostalgia-filled entertainment. • Learn more about MST3K on YouTube. Logitech Casa Pop-Up Desk • Katie shares her experience with the Logitech Casa Pop-Up Desk, a compact and portable solution for ergonomic laptop use. • Perfect for travelers and remote workers. • Retail price: $179.99. Available on Logitech. Reflex Camera Lens for iPhone • Dave introduces the Reflex 5X optical zoom lens, a game-changer for iPhone photography. • High-quality optical zoom with zero digital distortion. • Ideal for photographers seeking professional-level zoom on their mobile devices. • Follow Reflex on Instagram: @reeflexcamera. CES 2010 Throwback: The Year of the Netbook • Travel back to CES 2010, where netbooks were all the rage, only to be outshined by the launch of the iPad months later. • Nostalgic highlights include compact designs, low specs, and their quick obsolescence. • Compare netbooks with today's ultraportable laptops. Kmart Music Archive on Internet Archive • Relive the nostalgic tunes of Kmart with digitized cassette tapes and vinyl records now available on the Internet Archive. • Explore 80s and 90s Muzak playlists, commercials, and more. • Access the archive: Kmart Cassette Tapes. Swipit Phone Charging Hub • Katie discusses the innovative Swipit Phone Charger, a toaster-like device that swaps and charges phone batteries in under five seconds. • A perfect solution for families or businesses with high phone usage. • Price: $450 for the hub and $120 per case. YouTube Sci-Fi Audio Drama: “The Nature of Predators” • Dave highlights this compelling YouTube series featuring humanity's first contact with alien species. • Blending AI artwork, narration, and old-time radio serial storytelling, this series captivates sci-fi fans. • Start watching: “The Nature of Predators” on YouTube. Links to Include in the Show Notes Spreadsheet: • Mystery Science Theater 3000 YouTube • Logitech Casa Pop-Up Desk • Reflex Camera on Instagram • Kmart Cassette Tapes Archive • The Nature of Predators YouTube Playlist • Swipit Official Site Subscribe to the Podcast: awesomecast.com Sorgatron Media Podcast Network Feed: sorgatronmedia.fireside.fm Join our AwesomeCast Facebook Group to see what we're sharing and to join the discussion! You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast! Special Thanks to kidmental for the new AwesomeCast Sounds! Visit him at www.kidmental.com

This week's episode brought to you by Indy Wrestling US, Slice on Broadway, Sidekick Media Services and listeners like you at www.Patreon.com/AwesomeCast Join hosts Michael Sorg and Dave Podnar on AwesomeCast, where they geek out on the latest tech, gadgets, and intriguing stories. This episode explores the wonders of Pittsburgh's iconic Cathedral of Learning, groundbreaking accessibility tech in sports, OpenAI's new video generation tools, YouTube's innovative dubbing feature, and the evolving Steam gaming ecosystem. Plus, stay tuned for insights on Apple's iOS 18.2 updates and an exclusive Loop TV unboxing on Patreon. Perfect for tech enthusiasts and creators, this episode blends thoughtful analysis with a touch of holiday cheer. Pittsburgh's Cathedral of Learning • Overview of the University of Pittsburgh's landmark, featuring international-themed rooms decorated for Christmas. • Tips for visitors: guided tours, accessibility considerations, and historical tidbits. • Created using Apple Clips for a seamless visual experience. Accessible Tech in Sports • Spotlight on a tactile soccer-field gadget designed for visually impaired fans to “feel” the game. • Discusses the potential of force feedback technology for live sports immersion. OpenAI's Video Generation Tools • Introduction to OpenAI's new video generation feature, Sora. • Pricing models and potential use cases for tech enthusiasts and creators. • Exploration of AI's impact on industries like filmmaking and marketing. YouTube AI Dubbing • Expansion of YouTube's AI-powered dubbing tool for creators. • Benefits for multilingual audiences and global outreach. • Practical applications for small businesses and creators, especially for tutorial videos. Valve's Steam Ecosystem Updates • Valve's roadmap for Steam OS, Steam Controller 2, and living room consoles. • Discussion on gaming compatibility and the future of hardware partnerships. Apple's iOS 18.2 Updates • Insights into new AI-driven features in Notes and image creation tools. • Release timing and implications for creatives. Additional Stories • Amazon Luna as a gaming platform and its seamless integration with low-cost devices. • Nostalgia-driven discussions on Indiana Jones games and Call of Duty holiday updates. Links: • [Loop TV details] https://ww3.loop.tv/channels • [OpenAI Video Generation] https://www.theverge.com/2024/12/9/24317092/openai-sora-text-to-video-ai-launch • [YouTube Dubbing Features] https://www.theverge.com/2024/12/10/24318309/youtube-partners-ai-auto-dubbing-translation-knowledge-information-videos • [Apple iOS 18.2 Updates] https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/get-ready-for-ios-18-2-by-backing-up-your-iphone-correctly/ Subscribe to the Podcast: awesomecast.com Sorgatron Media Podcast Network Feed: sorgatronmedia.fireside.fm Join our AwesomeCast Facebook Group to see what we're sharing and to join the discussion! You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast! Special Thanks to kidmental for the new AwesomeCast Sounds! Visit him at www.kidmental.com

This week's episode brought to you by Indy Wrestling US, Slice on Broadway, Sidekick Media Services and listeners like you at www.Patreon.com/AwesomeCast • Mirror Space Labs and Disaster Response Tech Discover how weather balloons equipped with robotic, AI-powered cameras are revolutionizing disaster response and insurance claims by providing cost-effective aerial imaging for risk assessment and damage evaluation. • Clear Sky: The New Tool for Blue Sky Users Explore Clear Sky, a handy platform for analyzing your Blue Sky social media presence, featuring starter pack lists, blocking stats, and user metrics. Find out how it enhances the decentralized social media experience. • Micro.blog for Content Ownership The co-hosts delve into Micro.blog, a tool designed to help users own their content and distribute it across platforms. Learn why decentralization matters in today's social media landscape. • Duolingo Music Debuts Uncover how Duolingo is expanding beyond languages to teach music with interactive, gamified lessons on reading and playing notes. Plus, hear Dave's amusing encounter with Duolingo's quirky yearly review graphic. • Blizzard Delisting Classics on GOG.com Learn about Blizzard's move to delist original Warcraft games from GOG.com and how it ties into gaming preservation efforts. We discuss the importance of maintaining access to legacy games in a rapidly changing digital landscape. • Digital Media Ownership Challenges A deep dive into the pitfalls of digital ownership, from lost apps to games rendered unplayable by compatibility issues. Discover tips for managing digital purchases and safeguarding your investments. • The Verge Introduces a Paywall The hosts examine The Verge's decision to introduce a paywall for select content, discussing its implications for digital journalism and content ownership in an ad-driven ecosystem. • Tech Tip: Don't Delete Old Social Media Accounts Michael shares valuable advice for creators and professionals on why keeping inactive social media accounts matters for brand protection and search engine optimization. Be sure to tune in for more tech tips, quirky event stories, and gadget talk, and don't miss out on all the fun at www.sorgatronmedia.com.Subscribe to the Podcast: awesomecast.com Sorgatron Media Podcast Network Feed: sorgatronmedia.fireside.fm Join our AwesomeCast Facebook Group to see what we're sharing and to join the discussion! You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast! Special Thanks to kidmental for the new AwesomeCast Sounds! Visit him at www.kidmental.com

This week's episode brought to you by Indy Wrestling US, Slice on Broadway, Sidekick Media Services and listeners like you at www.Patreon.com/AwesomeCast This week on AwesomeCast, Michael Sorg, John Chichilla, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar gather for a lively discussion on the latest in tech, gadgets, and geeky happenings: • LitMe Fantasy 3 TV Backlight Kit: Chilla dives into the immersive lighting experience of the LitMe Fantasy 3 TV Backlight Kit, perfect for enhancing your entertainment setup. Learn why it's a great budget-friendly alternative to Philips Hue, supporting up to 8K resolution and HDMI 2.1. • Not Your Average Holiday Parade with YouJagOff: Katie shares her experience with the reverse holiday parade organized by the JagOff podcast team. This interactive event at The Block Northway features live streams, festive displays, and Pittsburgh's own Santa. Don't miss this creative holiday experience! • Woods Outdoor Holiday Decor Timer: Dave introduces a new gadget for holiday decorators—a remote-controlled outdoor timer with six outlets, perfect for managing your holiday lights with ease. • Simpsons NFL Fun Day Football & Mickey's NBA Christmas Game: Sorg highlights Disney's new animated sports broadcasts. The Simpsons take on the NFL, while Mickey and friends get into basketball. A fun twist on sports viewing! • AI's Role in Business and Creativity: The team reflects on the transformative impact of AI tools like CapCut and ChatGPT, streamlining workflows, enhancing creativity, and simplifying tasks for small businesses and content creators. • Tech Thankfulness: From virtual medical visits to portable keyboards, the crew shares what they're most thankful for in tech this year. • Niantic's Geospatial AI Model: A discussion on Niantic's use of Pokémon Go player data to create 3D maps and geospatial AI. Is it innovative or invasive? The team weighs in. • Xbox Game Pass Update: Xbox now allows cloud gaming for select games you own. Learn how this expands access and enhances gaming flexibility without the need for a console. Join us for an engaging mix of tech news, fun stories, and gadgets to geek out over! Be sure to tune in for more tech tips, quirky event stories, and gadget talk, and don't miss out on all the fun at www.sorgatronmedia.com.Subscribe to the Podcast: awesomecast.com Sorgatron Media Podcast Network Feed: sorgatronmedia.fireside.fm Join our AwesomeCast Facebook Group to see what we're sharing and to join the discussion! You can support the show at Patreon.com/awesomecast! Special Thanks to kidmental for the new AwesomeCast Sounds! Visit him at www.kidmental.com Join our live show Tuesdays around 7:00 PM EST on AwesomeCast Facebook, Youtube and Sorgatron Media Twitch!

This week's episode brought to you by Indy Wrestling US, Slice on Broadway, Sidekick Media Services and listeners like you at www.Patreon.com/AwesomeCast Join Michael Sorg and Dave Podnar in this episode of AwesomeCast as they delve into an eclectic mix of tech trends, nostalgic gaming updates, and creative social media tools. Packed with insights and humor, this episode offers something for every tech enthusiast.