Podcasts about Sorg

I veckans avsnitt är Manne tillbaka och vi pratar om livet, både det tunga och det som faktiskt får vara fint mitt i allt.Manne berättar om sin pappa som nyligen gått bort och om deras sista tid tillsammans. Om sorgen och saknaden, men också om hur den sista tiden blev läkande och gav plats för närhet, samtal och ett fint avslut. Vi svarar på en lyssnarfråga om dejting - hur börjar man egentligen dejta?Ett avsnitt om sorg, kärlek med både allvar och skratt, precis som vanligt med oss.God lyssning! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Die African Unite Borders Bus Trucks Association doen 'n beroep op Afrika-leiers om in te gryp na die Karibameer-veerboottragedie in Zimbabwe. Vier-en-veertig mense is dood toe 'n oorlaaide veerboot Dinsdag naby Long Island omgeslaan het, met baie mense wat steeds vermis word. Die voorsitter van die vereniging, Mukhwathi Phumudzo, sê dit was 'n ou boot en Afrika-leiers moet belê in die bou van nuwe infrastruktuur:

Sorg and Dave Podnar are back for another AwesomeCast packed with Pittsburgh tech, gaming, streaming, photography, AI, retro media, and a surprisingly practical app for finding a bathroom when you really need one. The episode starts locally with Dave highlighting Stormfreak, a Pittsburgh-area weather enthusiast who has built a following on Reddit by offering practical, level-headed forecasts without the sensationalism that often accompanies severe weather coverage. That leads into a bigger conversation about how Reddit, YouTube, and independent creators increasingly fill information gaps once occupied by traditional specialty television. Sorg then takes a trip back to the video-store era with Binge Buster, a web experience that lets users browse movies available on their existing streaming subscriptions in an interface inspired by wandering through the shelves of a physical rental store. Gaming takes over a large part of the conversation, including EA going private in a massive Saudi-backed deal, Netflix getting an extended GTA 6 preview, Atari showing signs of financial improvement, the possibility of accessing Xbox and PC Game Pass titles on Linux and Mac through the XODUS project, new content for the original Quake, and Sorg's experience comparing Xbox cloud gaming with NVIDIA GeForce NOW. Then things get weird in the best possible way: Diablo is heading to amusement-park Halloween events, while a permanent Freddy Fazbear's Pizza experience complete with animatronics is planned for American Dream. Dave also shares his latest experience with Adobe Project Indigo, including computational photography, AI photo critiques, and the increasingly blurry line between traditional editing and generative AI. The episode wraps with two ideas that bring physical experiences back into a digital world: Pittsburgh's Lost Lizard renting VHS, DVD, and even Betamax tapes, and Nature Calls Run, an upcoming crowdsourced app designed to help runners, cyclists, travelers, and people with medical needs locate bathrooms, water, and other resources. Stories, Gadgets & Topics Discussed 300–600mm iPhone zoom lens — Dave points listeners toward iPhonography Podcast co-host Greg McMillan's detailed look at an enormous telephoto solution for iPhone photography. Stormfreak and Pittsburgh weather on Reddit — Dave highlights the local forecaster's calm, practical approach to Pittsburgh weather and the community that has formed around his posts. They discuss how independent online weather coverage can sometimes be more useful than national television coverage when people need highly local information. The changing role of specialty media — Sorg and Dave compare today's creator-driven information sources with the original promise of channels like The Weather Channel, Discovery, TLC, and Food Network. Binge Buster — Sorg tries a streaming discovery site that recreates some of the experience of browsing a video store. Users select the streaming services they already subscribe to and browse movies through virtual box art, descriptions, genres, trailers, staff picks, and more. https://bingebuster.net/ Awesome Person of the Week: Lewis Latimer — Dave profiles the inventor, draftsman, engineer, and patent expert whose work intersected with both Alexander Graham Bell's telephone patent and the development of more durable electric-light filaments. Slice on Broadway pizza sauce — Dave discovers jars of Slice on Broadway's original pizza sauce while shopping at Labriola's Italian Market. EA goes private — Chachi's Video Game Minute covers EA completing its reported $55 billion sale to a Saudi-backed buyer and what private ownership might mean for the future of EA's games and monetization. Netflix and GTA 6 — Netflix is set to feature an extended look at Grand Theft Auto VI on August 27, prompting discussion about whether GTA really needs any additional publicity. Atari's financial comeback — Atari reports its strongest annual revenue in roughly a decade, giving Sorg and Dave an opportunity to talk about the strange history of the Atari name, its changing ownership, and the collection of gaming properties associated with it over the years. Xbox games potentially coming to Linux and Mac through XODUS — Sorg discusses an open-source reverse-engineering project designed to make compatible Xbox and PC titles accessible beyond Windows, including the possibility of accessing portions of a user's existing Microsoft gaming library. Xbox backward compatibility — The conversation touches on original Xbox and Xbox 360 games potentially becoming increasingly accessible through Microsoft's PC ecosystem. New Quake content decades later — Quake continues receiving new content around its 30th anniversary, giving players another reason to revisit the classic first-person shooter. NVIDIA GeForce NOW vs. Xbox cloud gaming — Sorg compares his experience streaming games like Doom: The Dark Ages and Forza Horizon, finding GeForce NOW's higher-end hardware particularly impressive for demanding, fast-moving games. Do you still need a gaming PC? — Cloud gaming raises a bigger question: if a service already supports hundreds of games in your library and provides continuously upgraded hardware, does spending thousands on a dedicated gaming PC still make sense? Diablo invades Cedar Point and Six Flags — Blizzard's Diablo becomes part of the Halloween amusement-park experience, leading to a conversation about licensed haunted attractions and the changing amusement-park industry. Cedar Fair/Six Flags consolidation and disappearing amusement parks — Dave looks back at the history of older amusement parks, including Pittsburgh-area memories of White Swan Park and the larger trend of parks disappearing as land was redeveloped. Freddy Fazbear's Pizza becomes real — A permanent Freddy Fazbear's Pizza experience featuring animatronic stage shows is planned for American Dream in 2027. Naturally, Sorg and Dave wonder whether anybody involved has actually learned the lesson of Five Nights at Freddy's. American Dream as the modern destination mall — The conversation expands into how malls are evolving from shopping centers into entertainment destinations with theme parks, water parks, skiing, restaurants, attractions, wrestling events, and other experiences. Adobe Project Indigo — Dave continues experimenting with Adobe's computational photography app, particularly challenging lighting situations and shooting directly toward a sunset. AI-powered photography reviews — Project Indigo can analyze a photo and provide feedback, giving photographers another way to evaluate composition and possible improvements. When an AI edit becomes a different photograph — Dave demonstrates an AI edit that substantially changes clouds and the sky, prompting an important conversation about the difference between enhancing a photograph and generating new visual information. AI quietly becoming another editing tool — Sorg shares his experience using AI to quickly create client graphics and discusses how generative tools increasingly feel less like a separate novelty and more like another part of a production workflow. Lost Lizard brings video rentals back to Pittsburgh — A Lawrenceville business is renting VHS tapes, DVDs, Betamax tapes, and even retro video games. The concept triggers plenty of nostalgia for independent video stores and their wonderfully strange horror collections. Physical media versus digital ownership — Reports of purchased digital movies disappearing from user libraries lead to a larger discussion about what consumers actually own when they "buy" a digital movie. Movies Anywhere and fragmented digital libraries — Sorg discusses the usefulness of synchronizing eligible purchases across services while acknowledging that licensing can still make digital ownership complicated. Maybe it's time to buy DVDs again — The uncertainty of digital licenses gives physical media another unexpected advantage: nobody can remotely remove a disc from your shelf. Nature Calls Run — An upcoming Pittsburgh-created app will crowdsource public restrooms, water sources, and other useful resources for runners, cyclists, travelers, parents, and anyone suddenly asking the most important question of the day: "Where can I go?" https://naturecallsapp.com/ Restroom access as an accessibility and medical issue — The app also plans to educate users about restroom-access laws affecting people with conditions including Crohn's disease and IBS. GCXC running events — Dave also discusses upcoming Pittsburgh-area races and the community surrounding GCXC events. https://gcxc.com/events-pa Support AwesomeCast: https://www.patreon.com/awesomecast

The Wrestling Mayhem Show dives deep into the increasingly interconnected world of professional wrestling as Sorg, Mad Mike, and TruePrinceofPro (T-Pop!) tackle WWE's growing relationship with AAA, AEW and CMLL's continued collaboration in Mexico, the expanding wrestling landscape in Canada, and plenty happening right here in Pittsburgh. The crew starts with WWE's AAA crossover and the tournament determining who will challenge Roman Reigns in Mexico City. Penta, Laredo Kid, Psycho Clown, La Parka, Dragon Lee, Rey Fenix and more enter the conversation as the hosts debate whether AAA wrestlers are being presented strongly enough on WWE television. They also give Corey Graves credit for putting in the work to explain AAA history and wrestlers to WWE's broader audience—even while questioning the remote commentary setup being used for AAA programming. From there, the conversation heads to AEW Grand Slam Mexico and CMLL, including the incredible atmosphere surrounding the crossover shows, Adam Copeland checking another item off his wrestling bucket list, the unique Bandido/Brody King/Hangman Page trio, and the wild format of CMLL's massive Grand Prix match. T-Pop explains how the elimination format works and why Mexican wrestling continues to offer something structurally different from American wrestling television. The expanding wrestling TV universe also gets examined through Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling, MLW, NWA, AEW, ROH and CMLL. How important is immediacy in wrestling? Does a show lose momentum when its television is months behind the live tapings? And why does wrestling remain such attractive television programming compared with scripted productions? On the local front, there is plenty to celebrate. The crew looks back at 2PW Summer Showdown, including the delightfully unexpected blindfolded Lights Out match, Gianni Michael Emricko and Gorgeous Gregory challenging The Troublemakers for the NWA JCP Southeastern Tag Team Championship, and developments surrounding 2PW's championships. There are also updates from 880 Wrestling's Lethal Lottery, Prospect Pro Wrestling, Enjoy Wrestling and the upcoming Sorgstock. And speaking of Sorgstock: Mikey Montgomery vs. Justin Idol in a Video Game Match is officially on the card for August 28. What exactly is a Video Game Match? Apparently, you'll have to be there. Then things get personal with CM Punk and Kevin Owens. The hosts revisit their complicated history, the real-life stories wrestling fans are already resurfacing, and why these two could create weeks of compelling television without needing to throw a single punch. Plus: Chelsea Green's injury, Johnny Gargano stepping away amid a difficult family situation, wrestling trading cards raising money for the Cauliflower Alley Club, Big Man Tater and his microwave helmet, Tatum Paxley arriving on SmackDown, Mickey Knuckles coming to VCW, and Sorg's reflections after finishing a book about Rowdy Roddy Piper. It's another trip through the increasingly strange, global and wonderfully interconnected world of professionalized wrestling. News Stories & Topics Discussed WWE and AAA expand their crossover: A tournament featuring talent from WWE and AAA will determine a challenger for Roman Reigns in Mexico City, with Penta, Laredo Kid, Psycho Clown, La Parka, Dragon Lee, Rey Fenix and others discussed. Is WWE protecting AAA enough? The hosts question why AAA talent is frequently introduced to the Raw and SmackDown audience without being allowed to score important victories. Dominik Mysterio as AAA Mega Champion: The contradiction between Dom holding AAA's top championship and AAA wrestlers sometimes feeling secondary on WWE television becomes a major point of discussion. Corey Graves and AAA commentary: T-Pop and Sorg praise Graves' knowledge and enthusiasm while examining the awkwardness created by remote commentary involving Rey Mysterio and JBL. AEW Grand Slam Mexico: The Arena Mexico atmosphere, Mexican audience participation, Adam Copeland's appearance and AEW leaning into its CMLL relationship all get praise. CMLL Grand Prix explained: T-Pop breaks down the enormous elimination match and its rotating tag structure, including why it feels so different from the usual American multi-person match. AEW/CMLL/ROH relationships: The hosts appreciate AEW's willingness to work across promotions rather than trying to isolate its roster. Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling: The Canadian promotion's weekly television presence is discussed along with Mauro Ranallo's commentary and the opportunity created by changes in WWE's Canadian distribution. MLW and NWA tape delays: Sorg and T-Pop talk about how months of unaired matches can reduce urgency even when the actual wrestling remains enjoyable. The economics of wrestling television: A discussion of live wrestling production leads to appreciation for how much WWE and AEW accomplish every week and why wrestling remains appealing programming for broadcasters. 2PW Summer Showdown: The hosts recap the show, including championship developments, the blindfolded Lights Out match and Some Guy Named John's spectacular elbow drop to absolutely nobody. Gianni Michael Emricko & Gorgeous Gregory: Their NWA JCP Southeastern Tag Team Championship match against The Troublemakers is part of the 2PW recap. 880 Wrestling Lethal Lottery: T-Pop likes the unusual team of Dev Swayze and Tatiana, while Sammy Suntimer's attempts to bond with Marco Narciso become a source of amusement. 2PW Friday Night Frights: The October 23 Halloween event and an announced casket match are previewed. Enjoy Wrestling's anniversary: Lee Moriarty vs. Amazing Red is singled out as a match worth watching. Sorgstock announcement: Mikey Montgomery faces returning Pittsburgh wrestling favorite Justin Idol in a mysterious Video Game Match on August 28. CM Punk vs. Kevin Owens: The hosts love the early verbal confrontation and dig into some of the genuine history that can add another layer to the feud. Chelsea Green injured: Her orbital-bone injury leads to speculation about recovery time and whether it should affect her championship status. Johnny Gargano: The conversation turns serious while discussing Gargano stepping away to focus on his father during his battle with stage-four prostate cancer. Pittsburgh wrestling trading cards: Falcom Digital Imaging's cards and wrestling-related fundraising lead into recognition of efforts benefiting the Cauliflower Alley Club. Big Man Tater: A gigantic Vader-inspired independent wrestler who enters wearing a microwave becomes an immediate Mayhem Show obsession. Tatum Paxley: Her SmackDown arrival has Mad Mike excited about the potential for increasingly spooky developments. MPX “Who Runs the World”: The chat points out the stacked women's wrestling event featuring a wide range of notable talent. Mickey Knuckles headed to VCW: A breaking local wrestling announcement gets an enthusiastic reaction. Roddy Piper: Sorg discusses finishing the Piper book assembled after his death and reflects on the difference between Roddy Piper the character and the person underneath it. “What We Learned” Breakdown T-Pop: Sometimes the best way to introduce someone is simply to unleash them as a monster. He highlights the AAA debut of a WWE/LFG talent who attacks Psycho Clown, tears away part of his mask and chokeslams him onto a chair. The presentation immediately makes the newcomer feel dangerous. Mad Mike: It was apparently a tremendous week for tater-related professional wrestling. First comes Big Man Tater, a giant Vader-inspired wrestler who enters with a microwave on his head. Then there's Tatum Paxley, whose SmackDown arrival has Mike eagerly anticipating where her character could go next. Sorg: Finishing the Rowdy Roddy Piper book helped reconnect dots between moments Sorg remembered as a fan and the life happening behind them. He particularly reflects on Piper becoming so immersed in the wrestling character that separating “Roddy Piper” from the person himself became difficult, while also remembering his wife getting a chance to meet one of her childhood wrestling heroes. From the chat: Mercedes Moné's wrestling anniversary gets recognized, along with excitement over MPX's upcoming women-focused Who Runs the World card.

The Wrestling Mayhem Show dives deep into the increasingly interconnected world of professional wrestling as Sorg, Mad Mike, and TruePrinceofPro (T-Pop!) tackle WWE's growing relationship with AAA, AEW and CMLL's continued collaboration in Mexico, the expanding wrestling landscape in Canada, and plenty happening right here in Pittsburgh. The crew starts with WWE's AAA crossover and the tournament determining who will challenge Roman Reigns in Mexico City. Penta, Laredo Kid, Psycho Clown, La Parka, Dragon Lee, Rey Fenix and more enter the conversation as the hosts debate whether AAA wrestlers are being presented strongly enough on WWE television. They also give Corey Graves credit for putting in the work to explain AAA history and wrestlers to WWE's broader audience—even while questioning the remote commentary setup being used for AAA programming. From there, the conversation heads to AEW Grand Slam Mexico and CMLL, including the incredible atmosphere surrounding the crossover shows, Adam Copeland checking another item off his wrestling bucket list, the unique Bandido/Brody King/Hangman Page trio, and the wild format of CMLL's massive Grand Prix match. T-Pop explains how the elimination format works and why Mexican wrestling continues to offer something structurally different from American wrestling television. The expanding wrestling TV universe also gets examined through Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling, MLW, NWA, AEW, ROH and CMLL. How important is immediacy in wrestling? Does a show lose momentum when its television is months behind the live tapings? And why does wrestling remain such attractive television programming compared with scripted productions? On the local front, there is plenty to celebrate. The crew looks back at 2PW Summer Showdown, including the delightfully unexpected blindfolded Lights Out match, Gianni Michael Emricko and Gorgeous Gregory challenging The Troublemakers for the NWA JCP Southeastern Tag Team Championship, and developments surrounding 2PW's championships. There are also updates from 880 Wrestling's Lethal Lottery, Prospect Pro Wrestling, Enjoy Wrestling and the upcoming Sorgstock. And speaking of Sorgstock: Mikey Montgomery vs. Justin Idol in a Video Game Match is officially on the card for August 28. What exactly is a Video Game Match? Apparently, you'll have to be there. Then things get personal with CM Punk and Kevin Owens. The hosts revisit their complicated history, the real-life stories wrestling fans are already resurfacing, and why these two could create weeks of compelling television without needing to throw a single punch. Plus: Chelsea Green's injury, Johnny Gargano stepping away amid a difficult family situation, wrestling trading cards raising money for the Cauliflower Alley Club, Big Man Tater and his microwave helmet, Tatum Paxley arriving on SmackDown, Mickey Knuckles coming to VCW, and Sorg's reflections after finishing a book about Rowdy Roddy Piper. It's another trip through the increasingly strange, global and wonderfully interconnected world of professionalized wrestling. News Stories & Topics Discussed WWE and AAA expand their crossover: A tournament featuring talent from WWE and AAA will determine a challenger for Roman Reigns in Mexico City, with Penta, Laredo Kid, Psycho Clown, La Parka, Dragon Lee, Rey Fenix and others discussed. Is WWE protecting AAA enough? The hosts question why AAA talent is frequently introduced to the Raw and SmackDown audience without being allowed to score important victories. Dominik Mysterio as AAA Mega Champion: The contradiction between Dom holding AAA's top championship and AAA wrestlers sometimes feeling secondary on WWE television becomes a major point of discussion. Corey Graves and AAA commentary: T-Pop and Sorg praise Graves' knowledge and enthusiasm while examining the awkwardness created by remote commentary involving Rey Mysterio and JBL. AEW Grand Slam Mexico: The Arena Mexico atmosphere, Mexican audience participation, Adam Copeland's appearance and AEW leaning into its CMLL relationship all get praise. CMLL Grand Prix explained: T-Pop breaks down the enormous elimination match and its rotating tag structure, including why it feels so different from the usual American multi-person match. AEW/CMLL/ROH relationships: The hosts appreciate AEW's willingness to work across promotions rather than trying to isolate its roster. Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling: The Canadian promotion's weekly television presence is discussed along with Mauro Ranallo's commentary and the opportunity created by changes in WWE's Canadian distribution. MLW and NWA tape delays: Sorg and T-Pop talk about how months of unaired matches can reduce urgency even when the actual wrestling remains enjoyable. The economics of wrestling television: A discussion of live wrestling production leads to appreciation for how much WWE and AEW accomplish every week and why wrestling remains appealing programming for broadcasters. 2PW Summer Showdown: The hosts recap the show, including championship developments, the blindfolded Lights Out match and Some Guy Named John's spectacular elbow drop to absolutely nobody. Gianni Michael Emricko & Gorgeous Gregory: Their NWA JCP Southeastern Tag Team Championship match against The Troublemakers is part of the 2PW recap. 880 Wrestling Lethal Lottery: T-Pop likes the unusual team of Dev Swayze and Tatiana, while Sammy Suntimer's attempts to bond with Marco Narciso become a source of amusement. 2PW Friday Night Frights: The October 23 Halloween event and an announced casket match are previewed. Enjoy Wrestling's anniversary: Lee Moriarty vs. Amazing Red is singled out as a match worth watching. Sorgstock announcement: Mikey Montgomery faces returning Pittsburgh wrestling favorite Justin Idol in a mysterious Video Game Match on August 28. CM Punk vs. Kevin Owens: The hosts love the early verbal confrontation and dig into some of the genuine history that can add another layer to the feud. Chelsea Green injured: Her orbital-bone injury leads to speculation about recovery time and whether it should affect her championship status. Johnny Gargano: The conversation turns serious while discussing Gargano stepping away to focus on his father during his battle with stage-four prostate cancer. Pittsburgh wrestling trading cards: Falcom Digital Imaging's cards and wrestling-related fundraising lead into recognition of efforts benefiting the Cauliflower Alley Club. Big Man Tater: A gigantic Vader-inspired independent wrestler who enters wearing a microwave becomes an immediate Mayhem Show obsession. Tatum Paxley: Her SmackDown arrival has Mad Mike excited about the potential for increasingly spooky developments. MPX “Who Runs the World”: The chat points out the stacked women's wrestling event featuring a wide range of notable talent. Mickey Knuckles headed to VCW: A breaking local wrestling announcement gets an enthusiastic reaction. Roddy Piper: Sorg discusses finishing the Piper book assembled after his death and reflects on the difference between Roddy Piper the character and the person underneath it. “What We Learned” Breakdown T-Pop: Sometimes the best way to introduce someone is simply to unleash them as a monster. He highlights the AAA debut of a WWE/LFG talent who attacks Psycho Clown, tears away part of his mask and chokeslams him onto a chair. The presentation immediately makes the newcomer feel dangerous. Mad Mike: It was apparently a tremendous week for tater-related professional wrestling. First comes Big Man Tater, a giant Vader-inspired wrestler who enters with a microwave on his head. Then there's Tatum Paxley, whose SmackDown arrival has Mike eagerly anticipating where her character could go next. Sorg: Finishing the Rowdy Roddy Piper book helped reconnect dots between moments Sorg remembered as a fan and the life happening behind them. He particularly reflects on Piper becoming so immersed in the wrestling character that separating “Roddy Piper” from the person himself became difficult, while also remembering his wife getting a chance to meet one of her childhood wrestling heroes. From the chat: Mercedes Moné's wrestling anniversary gets recognized, along with excitement over MPX's upcoming women-focused Who Runs the World card.

Sorg and Dave Podnar are back for another AwesomeCast packed with Pittsburgh tech, gaming, streaming, photography, AI, retro media, and a surprisingly practical app for finding a bathroom when you really need one. The episode starts locally with Dave highlighting Stormfreak, a Pittsburgh-area weather enthusiast who has built a following on Reddit by offering practical, level-headed forecasts without the sensationalism that often accompanies severe weather coverage. That leads into a bigger conversation about how Reddit, YouTube, and independent creators increasingly fill information gaps once occupied by traditional specialty television. Sorg then takes a trip back to the video-store era with Binge Buster, a web experience that lets users browse movies available on their existing streaming subscriptions in an interface inspired by wandering through the shelves of a physical rental store. Gaming takes over a large part of the conversation, including EA going private in a massive Saudi-backed deal, Netflix getting an extended GTA 6 preview, Atari showing signs of financial improvement, the possibility of accessing Xbox and PC Game Pass titles on Linux and Mac through the XODUS project, new content for the original Quake, and Sorg's experience comparing Xbox cloud gaming with NVIDIA GeForce NOW. Then things get weird in the best possible way: Diablo is heading to amusement-park Halloween events, while a permanent Freddy Fazbear's Pizza experience complete with animatronics is planned for American Dream. Dave also shares his latest experience with Adobe Project Indigo, including computational photography, AI photo critiques, and the increasingly blurry line between traditional editing and generative AI. The episode wraps with two ideas that bring physical experiences back into a digital world: Pittsburgh's Lost Lizard renting VHS, DVD, and even Betamax tapes, and Nature Calls Run, an upcoming crowdsourced app designed to help runners, cyclists, travelers, and people with medical needs locate bathrooms, water, and other resources. Stories, Gadgets & Topics Discussed 300–600mm iPhone zoom lens — Dave points listeners toward iPhonography Podcast co-host Greg McMillan's detailed look at an enormous telephoto solution for iPhone photography. Stormfreak and Pittsburgh weather on Reddit — Dave highlights the local forecaster's calm, practical approach to Pittsburgh weather and the community that has formed around his posts. They discuss how independent online weather coverage can sometimes be more useful than national television coverage when people need highly local information. The changing role of specialty media — Sorg and Dave compare today's creator-driven information sources with the original promise of channels like The Weather Channel, Discovery, TLC, and Food Network. Binge Buster — Sorg tries a streaming discovery site that recreates some of the experience of browsing a video store. Users select the streaming services they already subscribe to and browse movies through virtual box art, descriptions, genres, trailers, staff picks, and more. https://bingebuster.net/ Awesome Person of the Week: Lewis Latimer — Dave profiles the inventor, draftsman, engineer, and patent expert whose work intersected with both Alexander Graham Bell's telephone patent and the development of more durable electric-light filaments. Slice on Broadway pizza sauce — Dave discovers jars of Slice on Broadway's original pizza sauce while shopping at Labriola's Italian Market. EA goes private — Chachi's Video Game Minute covers EA completing its reported $55 billion sale to a Saudi-backed buyer and what private ownership might mean for the future of EA's games and monetization. Netflix and GTA 6 — Netflix is set to feature an extended look at Grand Theft Auto VI on August 27, prompting discussion about whether GTA really needs any additional publicity. Atari's financial comeback — Atari reports its strongest annual revenue in roughly a decade, giving Sorg and Dave an opportunity to talk about the strange history of the Atari name, its changing ownership, and the collection of gaming properties associated with it over the years. Xbox games potentially coming to Linux and Mac through XODUS — Sorg discusses an open-source reverse-engineering project designed to make compatible Xbox and PC titles accessible beyond Windows, including the possibility of accessing portions of a user's existing Microsoft gaming library. Xbox backward compatibility — The conversation touches on original Xbox and Xbox 360 games potentially becoming increasingly accessible through Microsoft's PC ecosystem. New Quake content decades later — Quake continues receiving new content around its 30th anniversary, giving players another reason to revisit the classic first-person shooter. NVIDIA GeForce NOW vs. Xbox cloud gaming — Sorg compares his experience streaming games like Doom: The Dark Ages and Forza Horizon, finding GeForce NOW's higher-end hardware particularly impressive for demanding, fast-moving games. Do you still need a gaming PC? — Cloud gaming raises a bigger question: if a service already supports hundreds of games in your library and provides continuously upgraded hardware, does spending thousands on a dedicated gaming PC still make sense? Diablo invades Cedar Point and Six Flags — Blizzard's Diablo becomes part of the Halloween amusement-park experience, leading to a conversation about licensed haunted attractions and the changing amusement-park industry. Cedar Fair/Six Flags consolidation and disappearing amusement parks — Dave looks back at the history of older amusement parks, including Pittsburgh-area memories of White Swan Park and the larger trend of parks disappearing as land was redeveloped. Freddy Fazbear's Pizza becomes real — A permanent Freddy Fazbear's Pizza experience featuring animatronic stage shows is planned for American Dream in 2027. Naturally, Sorg and Dave wonder whether anybody involved has actually learned the lesson of Five Nights at Freddy's. American Dream as the modern destination mall — The conversation expands into how malls are evolving from shopping centers into entertainment destinations with theme parks, water parks, skiing, restaurants, attractions, wrestling events, and other experiences. Adobe Project Indigo — Dave continues experimenting with Adobe's computational photography app, particularly challenging lighting situations and shooting directly toward a sunset. AI-powered photography reviews — Project Indigo can analyze a photo and provide feedback, giving photographers another way to evaluate composition and possible improvements. When an AI edit becomes a different photograph — Dave demonstrates an AI edit that substantially changes clouds and the sky, prompting an important conversation about the difference between enhancing a photograph and generating new visual information. AI quietly becoming another editing tool — Sorg shares his experience using AI to quickly create client graphics and discusses how generative tools increasingly feel less like a separate novelty and more like another part of a production workflow. Lost Lizard brings video rentals back to Pittsburgh — A Lawrenceville business is renting VHS tapes, DVDs, Betamax tapes, and even retro video games. The concept triggers plenty of nostalgia for independent video stores and their wonderfully strange horror collections. Physical media versus digital ownership — Reports of purchased digital movies disappearing from user libraries lead to a larger discussion about what consumers actually own when they "buy" a digital movie. Movies Anywhere and fragmented digital libraries — Sorg discusses the usefulness of synchronizing eligible purchases across services while acknowledging that licensing can still make digital ownership complicated. Maybe it's time to buy DVDs again — The uncertainty of digital licenses gives physical media another unexpected advantage: nobody can remotely remove a disc from your shelf. Nature Calls Run — An upcoming Pittsburgh-created app will crowdsource public restrooms, water sources, and other useful resources for runners, cyclists, travelers, parents, and anyone suddenly asking the most important question of the day: "Where can I go?" https://naturecallsapp.com/ Restroom access as an accessibility and medical issue — The app also plans to educate users about restroom-access laws affecting people with conditions including Crohn's disease and IBS. GCXC running events — Dave also discusses upcoming Pittsburgh-area races and the community surrounding GCXC events. https://gcxc.com/events-pa Support AwesomeCast: https://www.patreon.com/awesomecast

The Wrestling Mayhem Show dives deep into the increasingly interconnected world of professional wrestling as Sorg, Mad Mike, and TruePrinceofPro (T-Pop!) tackle WWE's growing relationship with AAA, AEW and CMLL's continued collaboration in Mexico, the expanding wrestling landscape in Canada, and plenty happening right here in Pittsburgh. The crew starts with WWE's AAA crossover and the tournament determining who will challenge Roman Reigns in Mexico City. Penta, Laredo Kid, Psycho Clown, La Parka, Dragon Lee, Rey Fenix and more enter the conversation as the hosts debate whether AAA wrestlers are being presented strongly enough on WWE television. They also give Corey Graves credit for putting in the work to explain AAA history and wrestlers to WWE's broader audience—even while questioning the remote commentary setup being used for AAA programming. From there, the conversation heads to AEW Grand Slam Mexico and CMLL, including the incredible atmosphere surrounding the crossover shows, Adam Copeland checking another item off his wrestling bucket list, the unique Bandido/Brody King/Hangman Page trio, and the wild format of CMLL's massive Grand Prix match. T-Pop explains how the elimination format works and why Mexican wrestling continues to offer something structurally different from American wrestling television. The expanding wrestling TV universe also gets examined through Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling, MLW, NWA, AEW, ROH and CMLL. How important is immediacy in wrestling? Does a show lose momentum when its television is months behind the live tapings? And why does wrestling remain such attractive television programming compared with scripted productions? On the local front, there is plenty to celebrate. The crew looks back at 2PW Summer Showdown, including the delightfully unexpected blindfolded Lights Out match, Gianni Michael Emricko and Gorgeous Gregory challenging The Troublemakers for the NWA JCP Southeastern Tag Team Championship, and developments surrounding 2PW's championships. There are also updates from 880 Wrestling's Lethal Lottery, Prospect Pro Wrestling, Enjoy Wrestling and the upcoming Sorgstock. And speaking of Sorgstock: Mikey Montgomery vs. Justin Idol in a Video Game Match is officially on the card for August 28. What exactly is a Video Game Match? Apparently, you'll have to be there. Then things get personal with CM Punk and Kevin Owens. The hosts revisit their complicated history, the real-life stories wrestling fans are already resurfacing, and why these two could create weeks of compelling television without needing to throw a single punch. Plus: Chelsea Green's injury, Johnny Gargano stepping away amid a difficult family situation, wrestling trading cards raising money for the Cauliflower Alley Club, Big Man Tater and his microwave helmet, Tatum Paxley arriving on SmackDown, Mickey Knuckles coming to VCW, and Sorg's reflections after finishing a book about Rowdy Roddy Piper. It's another trip through the increasingly strange, global and wonderfully interconnected world of professionalized wrestling. News Stories & Topics Discussed WWE and AAA expand their crossover: A tournament featuring talent from WWE and AAA will determine a challenger for Roman Reigns in Mexico City, with Penta, Laredo Kid, Psycho Clown, La Parka, Dragon Lee, Rey Fenix and others discussed. Is WWE protecting AAA enough? The hosts question why AAA talent is frequently introduced to the Raw and SmackDown audience without being allowed to score important victories. Dominik Mysterio as AAA Mega Champion: The contradiction between Dom holding AAA's top championship and AAA wrestlers sometimes feeling secondary on WWE television becomes a major point of discussion. Corey Graves and AAA commentary: T-Pop and Sorg praise Graves' knowledge and enthusiasm while examining the awkwardness created by remote commentary involving Rey Mysterio and JBL. AEW Grand Slam Mexico: The Arena Mexico atmosphere, Mexican audience participation, Adam Copeland's appearance and AEW leaning into its CMLL relationship all get praise. CMLL Grand Prix explained: T-Pop breaks down the enormous elimination match and its rotating tag structure, including why it feels so different from the usual American multi-person match. AEW/CMLL/ROH relationships: The hosts appreciate AEW's willingness to work across promotions rather than trying to isolate its roster. Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling: The Canadian promotion's weekly television presence is discussed along with Mauro Ranallo's commentary and the opportunity created by changes in WWE's Canadian distribution. MLW and NWA tape delays: Sorg and T-Pop talk about how months of unaired matches can reduce urgency even when the actual wrestling remains enjoyable. The economics of wrestling television: A discussion of live wrestling production leads to appreciation for how much WWE and AEW accomplish every week and why wrestling remains appealing programming for broadcasters. 2PW Summer Showdown: The hosts recap the show, including championship developments, the blindfolded Lights Out match and Some Guy Named John's spectacular elbow drop to absolutely nobody. Gianni Michael Emricko & Gorgeous Gregory: Their NWA JCP Southeastern Tag Team Championship match against The Troublemakers is part of the 2PW recap. 880 Wrestling Lethal Lottery: T-Pop likes the unusual team of Dev Swayze and Tatiana, while Sammy Suntimer's attempts to bond with Marco Narciso become a source of amusement. 2PW Friday Night Frights: The October 23 Halloween event and an announced casket match are previewed. Enjoy Wrestling's anniversary: Lee Moriarty vs. Amazing Red is singled out as a match worth watching. Sorgstock announcement: Mikey Montgomery faces returning Pittsburgh wrestling favorite Justin Idol in a mysterious Video Game Match on August 28. CM Punk vs. Kevin Owens: The hosts love the early verbal confrontation and dig into some of the genuine history that can add another layer to the feud. Chelsea Green injured: Her orbital-bone injury leads to speculation about recovery time and whether it should affect her championship status. Johnny Gargano: The conversation turns serious while discussing Gargano stepping away to focus on his father during his battle with stage-four prostate cancer. Pittsburgh wrestling trading cards: Falcom Digital Imaging's cards and wrestling-related fundraising lead into recognition of efforts benefiting the Cauliflower Alley Club. Big Man Tater: A gigantic Vader-inspired independent wrestler who enters wearing a microwave becomes an immediate Mayhem Show obsession. Tatum Paxley: Her SmackDown arrival has Mad Mike excited about the potential for increasingly spooky developments. MPX “Who Runs the World”: The chat points out the stacked women's wrestling event featuring a wide range of notable talent. Mickey Knuckles headed to VCW: A breaking local wrestling announcement gets an enthusiastic reaction. Roddy Piper: Sorg discusses finishing the Piper book assembled after his death and reflects on the difference between Roddy Piper the character and the person underneath it. “What We Learned” Breakdown T-Pop: Sometimes the best way to introduce someone is simply to unleash them as a monster. He highlights the AAA debut of a WWE/LFG talent who attacks Psycho Clown, tears away part of his mask and chokeslams him onto a chair. The presentation immediately makes the newcomer feel dangerous. Mad Mike: It was apparently a tremendous week for tater-related professional wrestling. First comes Big Man Tater, a giant Vader-inspired wrestler who enters with a microwave on his head. Then there's Tatum Paxley, whose SmackDown arrival has Mike eagerly anticipating where her character could go next. Sorg: Finishing the Rowdy Roddy Piper book helped reconnect dots between moments Sorg remembered as a fan and the life happening behind them. He particularly reflects on Piper becoming so immersed in the wrestling character that separating “Roddy Piper” from the person himself became difficult, while also remembering his wife getting a chance to meet one of her childhood wrestling heroes. From the chat: Mercedes Moné's wrestling anniversary gets recognized, along with excitement over MPX's upcoming women-focused Who Runs the World card.

Bibeltext: Matthäus 6,27 Spieldauer: 2 Minuten

What happens when a PC gamer turns downloadable Steam games into physical cartridges? Sorg, Katie Dudas and Dave Podnar explore that inventive project alongside an AI-generated reality show starring romantic fruits, Xbox's possible plan for preserving physical game collections, Fitbit's long-awaited Apple Health support and a 9,000-pound rocket stage headed for the Moon. The crew also discusses a travel app that automatically tells stories based on your location, the staggering first imagery from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, Kevin Mitnick's legacy in cybersecurity and several troubling decisions from the video game industry. Stories, Gadgets and Topics Discussed Katie's Brother P-touch label maker: Katie shows how she is using built-in symbols—including cameras, computers and warning icons—to organize and identify equipment, drives and other technology. The Vera C. Rubin Observatory reveals an enormous view of the universe: Dave follows up on the observatory's 3.2-gigapixel LSST camera and an image containing approximately 650,000 galaxies. The hosts discuss the astonishing detail available when zooming into tiny sections of the image, the observatory's planned decade of data collection and how AI could help scientists examine datasets too large for humans to process manually. See the Vera C. Rubin Observatory imagery Wrinkles turns city exploration into a location-aware audio tour: Katie introduces Wrinkles, a travel app that automatically shares historical facts, local stories and hidden details as users walk through supported cities. The app uses AI-generated voices, but its information is drawn from curated sources such as historians, museums and local organizations. Creators and tourism groups may also be able to build their own tours and experiences. Explore the Wrinkles travel app A PC gamer creates physical Steam cartridges: Sorg examines a DIY project that stores individual Steam games on inexpensive 128GB, 2.5-inch SSDs. A script detects the drive when it is inserted, connects the game to the owner's Steam library and launches the title—creating something close to a modern PC game cartridge. The discussion considers storage costs, portability and whether physical presentation can make digital collections feel more permanent. See the DIY Steam cartridge project Kevin Mitnick and National Social Engineering Day: Dave looks back at famed hacker-turned-security-consultant Kevin Mitnick, whose birthday on August 6 inspired National Social Engineering Day. The hosts explain how attackers can bypass strong technology by manipulating employees, customer-service representatives and other people into revealing passwords, resetting accounts or granting access. Learn about National Social Engineering Day Read Kevin Mitnick's congressional testimony ChachiSays Video Game Minute—“Doubling Down on Dumb Decisions”: Sony acknowledges the backlash surrounding its move away from physical PlayStation discs but plans to continue moving in that direction. Read the Sony physical-media story Electronic Arts reportedly rewarded its CEO with a major compensation increase following the success of Battlefield 6 while developers responsible for the game faced layoffs. Read about the EA compensation and layoffs August Interactive is working with NASA on Moonbase Y, a game designed to encourage children to plan, collaborate and invent solutions for a future lunar colony. Learn about Moonbase Y Xbox considers converting physical games into digital licenses: A reported Xbox disc-to-digital program could allow owners of original Xbox and Xbox 360 discs to access compatible digital copies on newer hardware or PC. The hosts discuss game preservation, license transfer, resale and whether Microsoft's approach inspires more confidence in the long-term future of an Xbox library. Read about Xbox's reported disc-to-digital plan Fitbit data can finally sync with Apple Health: Fitbit users can now consolidate more of their fitness information inside Apple Health. The hosts discuss the convenience of keeping activity, blood-pressure readings and medical information in one location, while noting that some measurements—including heart-rate variability—may not transfer yet. Learn how to sync Fitbit with Apple Health A SpaceX rocket stage is headed for the Moon: A roughly 9,000-pound piece of space hardware is expected to strike the lunar surface. Although the collision is accidental and likely will not be visible to the naked eye, lunar orbiters may be able to document the crater and debris, turning the impact into an unexpected scientific experiment. Read about the lunar impact Fruit Love Island and the strange appeal of AI reality television: Sorg introduces an AI-generated dating show starring anthropomorphic fruits and vegetables. The hosts examine its bizarre character designs, inconsistent AI visuals, audience voting, reality-show storytelling and surprisingly organized production workflow. They also debate whether projects like this are disposable “AI slop” or useful experiments in storyboarding, character consistency and accessible video production. Watch Hasan Minhaj react to Fruit Love Island Visit Fruit Love Island Watch the Fruit Love Island video Support AwesomeCast and receive the ad-free edition at Patreon.com/AwesomeCast. AwesomeCast is supported by Slice on Broadway, serving Pittsburgh podcasting with the perfect pepperoni pizza for more than a decade. Visit SliceOnBroadway.com.

Pro wrestler Gianni Michael Emricko joins Sorg, Rizz and Mad Mike for an episode packed with WWE SummerSlam reactions, Pittsburgh independent wrestling news and a spoiler-heavy trip through Spider-Man: Brand New Day. The crew opens by asking a surprising question: Was SummerSlam more enjoyable than WrestleMania? They examine a second night filled with fan-service moments, major returns and championship developments. Topics include Chelsea Green's victory, Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns seemingly closing another chapter of their shared history, CM Punk versus Cody Rhodes, Kevin Owens returning to the championship picture, Nick Aldis stepping back into the ring, Dominik Mysterio's success in AAA and WWE's evolving relationship with lucha libre. Gianni also receives some major news live on the show. His scheduled match at Prospect Pro Wrestling has changed, and he and Gorgeous Gregory will now challenge The Troublemakers for the NWA JCP Tag Team Championship. Gianni responds with an impromptu message for the champions and explains why the Italian Strongman plans to bring NWA gold home. The conversation then turns toward Gianni's recent match with EFFY at 880 Wrestling, his growing list of appearances throughout the region and the practical lessons he has learned while building his wrestling career. His advice is simple: get in the car, attend shows, help with the ring and production, introduce yourself and become someone promoters and wrestlers enjoy having in the locker room. Sorg also reveals new details for Sorgstock, including a surprising battle between Psychedelic Dreams members Sammy Suntheimer and Billy the Alien, plus wrestling-theme music from Sykes. After an official spoiler warning, the crew dives deeply into Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Gianni gives the film a 9.6 and calls it one of the most authentically Spider-Man stories yet. The discussion covers Peter Parker's stripped-down life, the introduction of Jean Grey, Punisher's role, mutant technology, the Hulk battle, Ned's potentially significant handshake, Miles Morales speculation and possible connections to Secret Wars and the wider multiverse. The episode closes with the viral video of Beastman and Sam Adonis helping break up a festival fight, followed by “What We Learned,” where Mad Mike argues that WWE is misunderstanding the basic appeal of Joe Hendry. News Stories and Topics Discussed The original Mayhem crew reunites: Sorg welcomes Rizz and Mad Mike, with early conversation covering Mad Mike's LEGO Soundwave set, teaching and the increasingly responsible lives of the show's longtime hosts. SummerSlam versus WrestleMania: The panel considers whether SummerSlam delivered a more consistently entertaining weekend than WrestleMania. WWE production mistakes: A misspelled commercial-break graphic launches a discussion about live production errors, unrealistic expectations and why even major companies make visible mistakes. SummerSlam's fan-service-heavy second night: Chelsea Green's title victory, Baron Corbin's return and Kevin Owens reentering the championship picture make Sorg wonder whether someone secretly used his fantasy booking. Chelsea Green's championship moment: The crew celebrates Green's victory, the reaction from her fellow wrestlers and how her success contrasts with comments discussed from WWE: Unreal. Hell in a Cell: The match's violence, ring destruction and feud-ending atmosphere are praised as an effective use of the stipulation. Seth Rollins versus Roman Reigns: The match is viewed as a possible closing chapter for The Shield, with particular interest in what comes next for Seth and a more independent Roman Reigns. Oba Femi and Brock Lesnar: Gianni offers a wrestler's perspective on the decision not to perform a dangerous spot directly onto exposed wood. Roman Reigns and AAA: Roman's interaction with Rey Mysterio creates fantasy-booking possibilities involving TripleMania, Worlds Collide, Penta, Jacob Fatu and The Lucha Brothers. Solo Sikoa's changing audience reaction: The hosts discuss how the SummerSlam build helped Solo emerge as an entertaining and increasingly sympathetic figure. Dominik Mysterio's popularity: The panel argues that Dominik feels like a major star in AAA and deserves a larger, more consistent role on WWE programming. Nick Aldis versus Gunther: Aldis' return to the ring impresses the crew and sparks speculation about a longer in-ring run or a future match with Adam Pearce. CM Punk versus Cody Rhodes: The match receives a more measured defense than some online reactions, while Kevin Owens' return sets up a potentially excellent microphone-driven rivalry with Punk. Nikki Bella's heel turn: A possible injury to Brie Bella leads to fantasy booking involving Paige, AJ Lee and a potential legends-focused WarGames match. Liv Morgan versus IYO SKY: The opening match and its finishing sequence are highlighted as one of the weekend's strongest performances. SummerSlam attendance and location: The crew discusses tarped seating, the lack of a public attendance announcement and whether Minneapolis was an ideal destination for a major summer wrestling event. Sorgstock announcement: Sammy Suntheimer will face his Psychedelic Dreams partner Billy the Alien, raising questions about tension inside the team. Gianni's championship opportunity: Gianni and Gorgeous Gregory will challenge The Troublemakers for the NWA JCP Tag Team Championship at Prospect Pro Wrestling. Gianni's live promo: The Italian Strongman immediately delivers a message promising that the NWA championship will not remain on Glenn Spectre's shoulder. Wrestling EFFY at 880 Wrestling: Gianni explains how the crowd quickly sided with EFFY, forcing him to adjust and embrace being the heel during the match. Breaking into new wrestling promotions: Gianni recommends traveling, introducing yourself, helping with setup and stepping outside your normal comfort zone. Locker-room reputation: Being positive, safe and helpful can be as important as social-media numbers when promoters decide whom they want to book again. Avoiding unhealthy environments: Gianni explains that a negative locker room—or a place where he does not feel safe in the ring—is unlikely to receive a return visit. Spider-Man spoiler discussion: The crew praises the film's grounded version of Peter Parker, swinging sequences, action choreography and emotional tone. Jean Grey and the mutants: The movie's mutant storyline leads to discussion of Jean Grey, Phoenix references, inhibitor technology and the future of the MCU's X-Men. Punisher's role: The panel examines Punisher's hospital scenes, his public identity and how he fits into a world where Spider-Man has regained public support. Ned and Peter's handshake: The hosts debate whether Ned consciously remembers Peter or simply feels a lingering connection that he cannot explain. Miles Morales and the multiverse: Potential clues are connected to Beyond the Spider-Verse, Doomsday, Secret Wars and the possibility of Miles eventually entering live action. Marvel physical media: Mad Mike displays elaborate Marvel and Harry Potter box sets, prompting nostalgia for collector editions filled with props, files and hidden compartments. Additional movie discussion: The crew briefly reviews Backrooms, Obsession, Eternals, New Mutants, the Fox X-Men films and the Spider-Man video games. Beastman goes viral again: Video from Tacos and Tequila shows Beastman and Sam Adonis helping break up a real fight, inspiring the suggestion that venues should hire Beastman as security. What We Learned Sorg: Never start a fight when Beastman is nearby. After watching the viral festival video, Sorg's larger conclusion is that Beastman may be the most effective security option available. Gianni Michael Emricko: Gianni learns the full details of his changed Prospect Pro Wrestling match during the episode. He and Gorgeous Gregory are receiving an NWA JCP Tag Team Championship opportunity, and Gianni confidently predicts that Glenn Spectre will not leave with his championship. Mad Mike: From Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Mike learns that it is okay to be sad. From wrestling, he learns that WWE appears confused about Joe Hendry. He argues that Hendry's entire presentation is built around “say his name and he appears,” yet WWE repeatedly brings him out without anyone saying his name, cuts away from his entrance and presents his musical segments more like Elias. Mike believes this removes the elements audiences are already excited to see. Rizz: Rizz does not give a separate standalone lesson in the closing segment, but contributes to the discussion about WWE failing to preserve the established logic and audience appeal of Joe Hendry's character.

Pro wrestler Gianni Michael Emricko joins Sorg, Rizz and Mad Mike for an episode packed with WWE SummerSlam reactions, Pittsburgh independent wrestling news and a spoiler-heavy trip through Spider-Man: Brand New Day. The crew opens by asking a surprising question: Was SummerSlam more enjoyable than WrestleMania? They examine a second night filled with fan-service moments, major returns and championship developments. Topics include Chelsea Green's victory, Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns seemingly closing another chapter of their shared history, CM Punk versus Cody Rhodes, Kevin Owens returning to the championship picture, Nick Aldis stepping back into the ring, Dominik Mysterio's success in AAA and WWE's evolving relationship with lucha libre. Gianni also receives some major news live on the show. His scheduled match at Prospect Pro Wrestling has changed, and he and Gorgeous Gregory will now challenge The Troublemakers for the NWA JCP Tag Team Championship. Gianni responds with an impromptu message for the champions and explains why the Italian Strongman plans to bring NWA gold home. The conversation then turns toward Gianni's recent match with EFFY at 880 Wrestling, his growing list of appearances throughout the region and the practical lessons he has learned while building his wrestling career. His advice is simple: get in the car, attend shows, help with the ring and production, introduce yourself and become someone promoters and wrestlers enjoy having in the locker room. Sorg also reveals new details for Sorgstock, including a surprising battle between Psychedelic Dreams members Sammy Suntheimer and Billy the Alien, plus wrestling-theme music from Sykes. After an official spoiler warning, the crew dives deeply into Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Gianni gives the film a 9.6 and calls it one of the most authentically Spider-Man stories yet. The discussion covers Peter Parker's stripped-down life, the introduction of Jean Grey, Punisher's role, mutant technology, the Hulk battle, Ned's potentially significant handshake, Miles Morales speculation and possible connections to Secret Wars and the wider multiverse. The episode closes with the viral video of Beastman and Sam Adonis helping break up a festival fight, followed by “What We Learned,” where Mad Mike argues that WWE is misunderstanding the basic appeal of Joe Hendry. News Stories and Topics Discussed The original Mayhem crew reunites: Sorg welcomes Rizz and Mad Mike, with early conversation covering Mad Mike's LEGO Soundwave set, teaching and the increasingly responsible lives of the show's longtime hosts. SummerSlam versus WrestleMania: The panel considers whether SummerSlam delivered a more consistently entertaining weekend than WrestleMania. WWE production mistakes: A misspelled commercial-break graphic launches a discussion about live production errors, unrealistic expectations and why even major companies make visible mistakes. SummerSlam's fan-service-heavy second night: Chelsea Green's title victory, Baron Corbin's return and Kevin Owens reentering the championship picture make Sorg wonder whether someone secretly used his fantasy booking. Chelsea Green's championship moment: The crew celebrates Green's victory, the reaction from her fellow wrestlers and how her success contrasts with comments discussed from WWE: Unreal. Hell in a Cell: The match's violence, ring destruction and feud-ending atmosphere are praised as an effective use of the stipulation. Seth Rollins versus Roman Reigns: The match is viewed as a possible closing chapter for The Shield, with particular interest in what comes next for Seth and a more independent Roman Reigns. Oba Femi and Brock Lesnar: Gianni offers a wrestler's perspective on the decision not to perform a dangerous spot directly onto exposed wood. Roman Reigns and AAA: Roman's interaction with Rey Mysterio creates fantasy-booking possibilities involving TripleMania, Worlds Collide, Penta, Jacob Fatu and The Lucha Brothers. Solo Sikoa's changing audience reaction: The hosts discuss how the SummerSlam build helped Solo emerge as an entertaining and increasingly sympathetic figure. Dominik Mysterio's popularity: The panel argues that Dominik feels like a major star in AAA and deserves a larger, more consistent role on WWE programming. Nick Aldis versus Gunther: Aldis' return to the ring impresses the crew and sparks speculation about a longer in-ring run or a future match with Adam Pearce. CM Punk versus Cody Rhodes: The match receives a more measured defense than some online reactions, while Kevin Owens' return sets up a potentially excellent microphone-driven rivalry with Punk. Nikki Bella's heel turn: A possible injury to Brie Bella leads to fantasy booking involving Paige, AJ Lee and a potential legends-focused WarGames match. Liv Morgan versus IYO SKY: The opening match and its finishing sequence are highlighted as one of the weekend's strongest performances. SummerSlam attendance and location: The crew discusses tarped seating, the lack of a public attendance announcement and whether Minneapolis was an ideal destination for a major summer wrestling event. Sorgstock announcement: Sammy Suntheimer will face his Psychedelic Dreams partner Billy the Alien, raising questions about tension inside the team. Gianni's championship opportunity: Gianni and Gorgeous Gregory will challenge The Troublemakers for the NWA JCP Tag Team Championship at Prospect Pro Wrestling. Gianni's live promo: The Italian Strongman immediately delivers a message promising that the NWA championship will not remain on Glenn Spectre's shoulder. Wrestling EFFY at 880 Wrestling: Gianni explains how the crowd quickly sided with EFFY, forcing him to adjust and embrace being the heel during the match. Breaking into new wrestling promotions: Gianni recommends traveling, introducing yourself, helping with setup and stepping outside your normal comfort zone. Locker-room reputation: Being positive, safe and helpful can be as important as social-media numbers when promoters decide whom they want to book again. Avoiding unhealthy environments: Gianni explains that a negative locker room—or a place where he does not feel safe in the ring—is unlikely to receive a return visit. Spider-Man spoiler discussion: The crew praises the film's grounded version of Peter Parker, swinging sequences, action choreography and emotional tone. Jean Grey and the mutants: The movie's mutant storyline leads to discussion of Jean Grey, Phoenix references, inhibitor technology and the future of the MCU's X-Men. Punisher's role: The panel examines Punisher's hospital scenes, his public identity and how he fits into a world where Spider-Man has regained public support. Ned and Peter's handshake: The hosts debate whether Ned consciously remembers Peter or simply feels a lingering connection that he cannot explain. Miles Morales and the multiverse: Potential clues are connected to Beyond the Spider-Verse, Doomsday, Secret Wars and the possibility of Miles eventually entering live action. Marvel physical media: Mad Mike displays elaborate Marvel and Harry Potter box sets, prompting nostalgia for collector editions filled with props, files and hidden compartments. Additional movie discussion: The crew briefly reviews Backrooms, Obsession, Eternals, New Mutants, the Fox X-Men films and the Spider-Man video games. Beastman goes viral again: Video from Tacos and Tequila shows Beastman and Sam Adonis helping break up a real fight, inspiring the suggestion that venues should hire Beastman as security. What We Learned Sorg: Never start a fight when Beastman is nearby. After watching the viral festival video, Sorg's larger conclusion is that Beastman may be the most effective security option available. Gianni Michael Emricko: Gianni learns the full details of his changed Prospect Pro Wrestling match during the episode. He and Gorgeous Gregory are receiving an NWA JCP Tag Team Championship opportunity, and Gianni confidently predicts that Glenn Spectre will not leave with his championship. Mad Mike: From Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Mike learns that it is okay to be sad. From wrestling, he learns that WWE appears confused about Joe Hendry. He argues that Hendry's entire presentation is built around “say his name and he appears,” yet WWE repeatedly brings him out without anyone saying his name, cuts away from his entrance and presents his musical segments more like Elias. Mike believes this removes the elements audiences are already excited to see. Rizz: Rizz does not give a separate standalone lesson in the closing segment, but contributes to the discussion about WWE failing to preserve the established logic and audience appeal of Joe Hendry's character.

Pro wrestler Gianni Michael Emricko joins Sorg, Rizz and Mad Mike for an episode packed with WWE SummerSlam reactions, Pittsburgh independent wrestling news and a spoiler-heavy trip through Spider-Man: Brand New Day. The crew opens by asking a surprising question: Was SummerSlam more enjoyable than WrestleMania? They examine a second night filled with fan-service moments, major returns and championship developments. Topics include Chelsea Green's victory, Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns seemingly closing another chapter of their shared history, CM Punk versus Cody Rhodes, Kevin Owens returning to the championship picture, Nick Aldis stepping back into the ring, Dominik Mysterio's success in AAA and WWE's evolving relationship with lucha libre. Gianni also receives some major news live on the show. His scheduled match at Prospect Pro Wrestling has changed, and he and Gorgeous Gregory will now challenge The Troublemakers for the NWA JCP Tag Team Championship. Gianni responds with an impromptu message for the champions and explains why the Italian Strongman plans to bring NWA gold home. The conversation then turns toward Gianni's recent match with EFFY at 880 Wrestling, his growing list of appearances throughout the region and the practical lessons he has learned while building his wrestling career. His advice is simple: get in the car, attend shows, help with the ring and production, introduce yourself and become someone promoters and wrestlers enjoy having in the locker room. Sorg also reveals new details for Sorgstock, including a surprising battle between Psychedelic Dreams members Sammy Suntheimer and Billy the Alien, plus wrestling-theme music from Sykes. After an official spoiler warning, the crew dives deeply into Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Gianni gives the film a 9.6 and calls it one of the most authentically Spider-Man stories yet. The discussion covers Peter Parker's stripped-down life, the introduction of Jean Grey, Punisher's role, mutant technology, the Hulk battle, Ned's potentially significant handshake, Miles Morales speculation and possible connections to Secret Wars and the wider multiverse. The episode closes with the viral video of Beastman and Sam Adonis helping break up a festival fight, followed by “What We Learned,” where Mad Mike argues that WWE is misunderstanding the basic appeal of Joe Hendry. News Stories and Topics Discussed The original Mayhem crew reunites: Sorg welcomes Rizz and Mad Mike, with early conversation covering Mad Mike's LEGO Soundwave set, teaching and the increasingly responsible lives of the show's longtime hosts. SummerSlam versus WrestleMania: The panel considers whether SummerSlam delivered a more consistently entertaining weekend than WrestleMania. WWE production mistakes: A misspelled commercial-break graphic launches a discussion about live production errors, unrealistic expectations and why even major companies make visible mistakes. SummerSlam's fan-service-heavy second night: Chelsea Green's title victory, Baron Corbin's return and Kevin Owens reentering the championship picture make Sorg wonder whether someone secretly used his fantasy booking. Chelsea Green's championship moment: The crew celebrates Green's victory, the reaction from her fellow wrestlers and how her success contrasts with comments discussed from WWE: Unreal. Hell in a Cell: The match's violence, ring destruction and feud-ending atmosphere are praised as an effective use of the stipulation. Seth Rollins versus Roman Reigns: The match is viewed as a possible closing chapter for The Shield, with particular interest in what comes next for Seth and a more independent Roman Reigns. Oba Femi and Brock Lesnar: Gianni offers a wrestler's perspective on the decision not to perform a dangerous spot directly onto exposed wood. Roman Reigns and AAA: Roman's interaction with Rey Mysterio creates fantasy-booking possibilities involving TripleMania, Worlds Collide, Penta, Jacob Fatu and The Lucha Brothers. Solo Sikoa's changing audience reaction: The hosts discuss how the SummerSlam build helped Solo emerge as an entertaining and increasingly sympathetic figure. Dominik Mysterio's popularity: The panel argues that Dominik feels like a major star in AAA and deserves a larger, more consistent role on WWE programming. Nick Aldis versus Gunther: Aldis' return to the ring impresses the crew and sparks speculation about a longer in-ring run or a future match with Adam Pearce. CM Punk versus Cody Rhodes: The match receives a more measured defense than some online reactions, while Kevin Owens' return sets up a potentially excellent microphone-driven rivalry with Punk. Nikki Bella's heel turn: A possible injury to Brie Bella leads to fantasy booking involving Paige, AJ Lee and a potential legends-focused WarGames match. Liv Morgan versus IYO SKY: The opening match and its finishing sequence are highlighted as one of the weekend's strongest performances. SummerSlam attendance and location: The crew discusses tarped seating, the lack of a public attendance announcement and whether Minneapolis was an ideal destination for a major summer wrestling event. Sorgstock announcement: Sammy Suntheimer will face his Psychedelic Dreams partner Billy the Alien, raising questions about tension inside the team. Gianni's championship opportunity: Gianni and Gorgeous Gregory will challenge The Troublemakers for the NWA JCP Tag Team Championship at Prospect Pro Wrestling. Gianni's live promo: The Italian Strongman immediately delivers a message promising that the NWA championship will not remain on Glenn Spectre's shoulder. Wrestling EFFY at 880 Wrestling: Gianni explains how the crowd quickly sided with EFFY, forcing him to adjust and embrace being the heel during the match. Breaking into new wrestling promotions: Gianni recommends traveling, introducing yourself, helping with setup and stepping outside your normal comfort zone. Locker-room reputation: Being positive, safe and helpful can be as important as social-media numbers when promoters decide whom they want to book again. Avoiding unhealthy environments: Gianni explains that a negative locker room—or a place where he does not feel safe in the ring—is unlikely to receive a return visit. Spider-Man spoiler discussion: The crew praises the film's grounded version of Peter Parker, swinging sequences, action choreography and emotional tone. Jean Grey and the mutants: The movie's mutant storyline leads to discussion of Jean Grey, Phoenix references, inhibitor technology and the future of the MCU's X-Men. Punisher's role: The panel examines Punisher's hospital scenes, his public identity and how he fits into a world where Spider-Man has regained public support. Ned and Peter's handshake: The hosts debate whether Ned consciously remembers Peter or simply feels a lingering connection that he cannot explain. Miles Morales and the multiverse: Potential clues are connected to Beyond the Spider-Verse, Doomsday, Secret Wars and the possibility of Miles eventually entering live action. Marvel physical media: Mad Mike displays elaborate Marvel and Harry Potter box sets, prompting nostalgia for collector editions filled with props, files and hidden compartments. Additional movie discussion: The crew briefly reviews Backrooms, Obsession, Eternals, New Mutants, the Fox X-Men films and the Spider-Man video games. Beastman goes viral again: Video from Tacos and Tequila shows Beastman and Sam Adonis helping break up a real fight, inspiring the suggestion that venues should hire Beastman as security. What We Learned Sorg: Never start a fight when Beastman is nearby. After watching the viral festival video, Sorg's larger conclusion is that Beastman may be the most effective security option available. Gianni Michael Emricko: Gianni learns the full details of his changed Prospect Pro Wrestling match during the episode. He and Gorgeous Gregory are receiving an NWA JCP Tag Team Championship opportunity, and Gianni confidently predicts that Glenn Spectre will not leave with his championship. Mad Mike: From Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Mike learns that it is okay to be sad. From wrestling, he learns that WWE appears confused about Joe Hendry. He argues that Hendry's entire presentation is built around “say his name and he appears,” yet WWE repeatedly brings him out without anyone saying his name, cuts away from his entrance and presents his musical segments more like Elias. Mike believes this removes the elements audiences are already excited to see. Rizz: Rizz does not give a separate standalone lesson in the closing segment, but contributes to the discussion about WWE failing to preserve the established logic and audience appeal of Joe Hendry's character.

What happens when a PC gamer turns downloadable Steam games into physical cartridges? Sorg, Katie Dudas and Dave Podnar explore that inventive project alongside an AI-generated reality show starring romantic fruits, Xbox's possible plan for preserving physical game collections, Fitbit's long-awaited Apple Health support and a 9,000-pound rocket stage headed for the Moon. The crew also discusses a travel app that automatically tells stories based on your location, the staggering first imagery from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, Kevin Mitnick's legacy in cybersecurity and several troubling decisions from the video game industry. Stories, Gadgets and Topics Discussed Katie's Brother P-touch label maker: Katie shows how she is using built-in symbols—including cameras, computers and warning icons—to organize and identify equipment, drives and other technology. The Vera C. Rubin Observatory reveals an enormous view of the universe: Dave follows up on the observatory's 3.2-gigapixel LSST camera and an image containing approximately 650,000 galaxies. The hosts discuss the astonishing detail available when zooming into tiny sections of the image, the observatory's planned decade of data collection and how AI could help scientists examine datasets too large for humans to process manually. See the Vera C. Rubin Observatory imagery Wrinkles turns city exploration into a location-aware audio tour: Katie introduces Wrinkles, a travel app that automatically shares historical facts, local stories and hidden details as users walk through supported cities. The app uses AI-generated voices, but its information is drawn from curated sources such as historians, museums and local organizations. Creators and tourism groups may also be able to build their own tours and experiences. Explore the Wrinkles travel app A PC gamer creates physical Steam cartridges: Sorg examines a DIY project that stores individual Steam games on inexpensive 128GB, 2.5-inch SSDs. A script detects the drive when it is inserted, connects the game to the owner's Steam library and launches the title—creating something close to a modern PC game cartridge. The discussion considers storage costs, portability and whether physical presentation can make digital collections feel more permanent. See the DIY Steam cartridge project Kevin Mitnick and National Social Engineering Day: Dave looks back at famed hacker-turned-security-consultant Kevin Mitnick, whose birthday on August 6 inspired National Social Engineering Day. The hosts explain how attackers can bypass strong technology by manipulating employees, customer-service representatives and other people into revealing passwords, resetting accounts or granting access. Learn about National Social Engineering Day Read Kevin Mitnick's congressional testimony ChachiSays Video Game Minute—“Doubling Down on Dumb Decisions”: Sony acknowledges the backlash surrounding its move away from physical PlayStation discs but plans to continue moving in that direction. Read the Sony physical-media story Electronic Arts reportedly rewarded its CEO with a major compensation increase following the success of Battlefield 6 while developers responsible for the game faced layoffs. Read about the EA compensation and layoffs August Interactive is working with NASA on Moonbase Y, a game designed to encourage children to plan, collaborate and invent solutions for a future lunar colony. Learn about Moonbase Y Xbox considers converting physical games into digital licenses: A reported Xbox disc-to-digital program could allow owners of original Xbox and Xbox 360 discs to access compatible digital copies on newer hardware or PC. The hosts discuss game preservation, license transfer, resale and whether Microsoft's approach inspires more confidence in the long-term future of an Xbox library. Read about Xbox's reported disc-to-digital plan Fitbit data can finally sync with Apple Health: Fitbit users can now consolidate more of their fitness information inside Apple Health. The hosts discuss the convenience of keeping activity, blood-pressure readings and medical information in one location, while noting that some measurements—including heart-rate variability—may not transfer yet. Learn how to sync Fitbit with Apple Health A SpaceX rocket stage is headed for the Moon: A roughly 9,000-pound piece of space hardware is expected to strike the lunar surface. Although the collision is accidental and likely will not be visible to the naked eye, lunar orbiters may be able to document the crater and debris, turning the impact into an unexpected scientific experiment. Read about the lunar impact Fruit Love Island and the strange appeal of AI reality television: Sorg introduces an AI-generated dating show starring anthropomorphic fruits and vegetables. The hosts examine its bizarre character designs, inconsistent AI visuals, audience voting, reality-show storytelling and surprisingly organized production workflow. They also debate whether projects like this are disposable “AI slop” or useful experiments in storyboarding, character consistency and accessible video production. Watch Hasan Minhaj react to Fruit Love Island Visit Fruit Love Island Watch the Fruit Love Island video Support AwesomeCast and receive the ad-free edition at Patreon.com/AwesomeCast. AwesomeCast is supported by Slice on Broadway, serving Pittsburgh podcasting with the perfect pepperoni pizza for more than a decade. Visit SliceOnBroadway.com.

One of the most worrisome challenges to human health to emerge in recent decades has been the growing environmental omnipresence of a class of chemicals known as PFAS. Often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they don't break down naturally and can remain in soil and water indefinitely, PFAS are used in countless consumer products. One of the best known is a chemical known as GenX. It gained widespread notoriety a few years back when it came to light that a factory run by the chemical company Chemours had been spewing large quantities of GenX into air and water from its factory in southeastern North Carolina. One of the journalists who's been on the GenX beat from the beginning is Inside Climate News reporter Lisa Sorg and recently NC Newsline caught up with Lisa for an extended chat in which examined two recent and important legal and regulatory developments on the subject of GenX and PFAS and why both have left a lot of people frustrated and dissatisfied. In Part One of our extended conversation, we discussed the environmental problems posed by so-called forever chemicals or PFAS. We also discussed a pair important new developments in the legal and regulatory spheres on the subject – the settlement of a large lawsuit brought by more than 2,500 property owners impacted by PFAS pollution in southeastern North Carolina and a move by the Trump administration to settle a regulatory proceeding targeting the source of that pollution – a company called Chemours. In Part Two of our chat, we dug deeper into these subjects and why both settlements have left a lot of people very dissatisfied. And we also learned a little about another important subject Sorg is covering – the bankruptcy filing of a Durham-based company that purported to be helping to clean up the environment but has been accused of perpetrating a ripoff of utility ratepayers. Click here to listen to the full interview with Inside Climate News reporter Lisa Sorg.

What happens when drones go somewhere they're not supposed to go? In this AwesomeChat, Sorg talks with Logan Harris, CEO of Spotter Global, about the technology being developed to detect drones, track their operators, protect critical infrastructure, and give security teams a better picture of what is happening across large areas. Spotter Global began by shrinking ground-surveillance radar technology that once required large equipment, significant power, and multiple operators into compact systems designed to provide situational awareness in the field. Today, that technology has expanded into critical infrastructure, public safety, drone detection, and some surprisingly unexpected applications. Logan demonstrates how radar, cameras, GPS tracking information, video analytics, and Remote ID can work together to help operators identify what is actually moving instead of simply generating another security-camera alert. The conversation also explores a rapidly changing drone landscape: public-event incursions, Remote ID regulations, DJI's changes to its geofencing system, DIY aircraft, fiber-optic drones that cannot be detected or jammed through conventional radio-frequency methods, and the growing challenge of defending against inexpensive drones without using dramatically more expensive countermeasures. Learn more about Logan Harris and Spotter Global at www.spotterglobal.com. Topics, News Stories & Technology Discussed How Spotter Global started with military radar technology Logan explains how the company grew out of a need for much smaller ground-surveillance radar systems. Instead of the roughly 100-pound systems that traditionally required several operators, Spotter Global developed compact radar technology for providing situational awareness to small teams operating in remote areas. A compact radar covering a surprisingly large area Logan demonstrates a radar unit with roughly a 600-meter range that uses about eight watts of power and can monitor approximately 40 acres. Radar provides the wide-area detection layer while cameras and additional analytics help determine what the radar actually found. SnapTrack brings live targets directly onto the map Spotter Global's SnapTrack feature combines target location information with live camera imagery. Rather than forcing an operator to monitor a wall of camera feeds, a target can appear on a map with picture-in-picture video once a camera acquires it. Radar + cameras + video AI to reduce false alarms Sorg compares the technology to conventional security cameras that send an alert without making it clear whether the movement came from a person, vehicle, animal, or even a tree branch. Spotter combines radar tracking, GPS coordinates, metadata, cameras, and video analytics to add multiple levels of verification. Critical infrastructure and the Metcalf substation attack Logan discusses how the 2013 attack on the Metcalf electrical substation in California highlighted vulnerabilities around major infrastructure. That helped drive demand for security systems capable of monitoring activity well beyond a facility's fence line. Drones over a Fourth of July event Logan describes assisting local law enforcement around a fireworks event where four drones flew around or over a stadium containing approximately 50,000 people. Police were able to intercept two of the operators. Remote ID: a “license plate” for drones Remote ID is compared to ADS-B on traditional aircraft. Compatible drones broadcast information including an identifier and location data, allowing detection systems to track the aircraft and, in some cases, identify the location of its operator. Spotter Global's Remote ID sensor Logan demonstrates a compact sensor capable of monitoring a large surrounding area for Remote ID broadcasts and plotting drone tracks and operator locations on a map. The 250-gram threshold and smaller drones The conversation looks at how weight affects Remote ID requirements and why some very small consumer drones operate differently from larger aircraft. DIY drones, RC aircraft, and external Remote ID beacons Sorg connects the discussion to SAE Aero Design competitions and student-built aircraft. Logan demonstrates a small Remote ID transmitter that can be attached to a DIY aircraft that needs to comply with Remote ID requirements. DJI and the change from geofencing to warnings Logan discusses DJI's change from firmware-enforced no-fly restrictions to warnings that alert operators when they are entering certain restricted areas without necessarily preventing the aircraft from flying there. Drone activity around major sporting events The conversation touches on drone pilots entering restricted areas around stadium events despite warnings, illustrating why detection and enforcement remain necessary even when consumer drones notify pilots of restrictions. Fiber-optic “FOG” drones Logan identifies fiber-optically guided drones as an important emerging challenge. Instead of communicating with an operator using radio signals, these drones remain physically connected by an extremely thin fiber-optic cable. Why fiber-optic drones are difficult to stop Because control and video travel through fiber rather than a wireless RF link, conventional RF detection and jamming techniques may not work. That increases the importance of radar and other methods of physically detecting the aircraft. Long-range attack drones and the economics of defense Logan contrasts smaller fiber-optic drones with much larger long-range fixed-wing attack drones and discusses the challenge of using extremely expensive defensive weapons against comparatively inexpensive aircraft. Fish farms need radar too One unexpected commercial application is protecting fish farms where millions of dollars of stock could be vulnerable to theft or sabotage. Radar can alert operators to someone approaching a restricted area. Avalanches, rockfalls, and polar bears Spotter's radar technology has moved far beyond its original security mission. Logan mentions applications involving avalanche monitoring, rockfall monitoring, and even tracking polar bears. Entrepreneurship: do it for more than money Logan says entrepreneurship involves too much work and stress for money alone to be the motivation. The Three Rs: Record, Remind, Report Logan's productivity philosophy centers on doing small things consistently: record what needs to happen, establish reminders, and make sure progress gets reported. His lesson is that accomplishing large goals depends on consistently handling the little things.

What happens when drones go somewhere they're not supposed to go? In this AwesomeChat, Sorg talks with Logan Harris, CEO of Spotter Global, about the technology being developed to detect drones, track their operators, protect critical infrastructure, and give security teams a better picture of what is happening across large areas. Spotter Global began by shrinking ground-surveillance radar technology that once required large equipment, significant power, and multiple operators into compact systems designed to provide situational awareness in the field. Today, that technology has expanded into critical infrastructure, public safety, drone detection, and some surprisingly unexpected applications. Logan demonstrates how radar, cameras, GPS tracking information, video analytics, and Remote ID can work together to help operators identify what is actually moving instead of simply generating another security-camera alert. The conversation also explores a rapidly changing drone landscape: public-event incursions, Remote ID regulations, DJI's changes to its geofencing system, DIY aircraft, fiber-optic drones that cannot be detected or jammed through conventional radio-frequency methods, and the growing challenge of defending against inexpensive drones without using dramatically more expensive countermeasures. Learn more about Logan Harris and Spotter Global at www.spotterglobal.com. Topics, News Stories & Technology Discussed How Spotter Global started with military radar technology Logan explains how the company grew out of a need for much smaller ground-surveillance radar systems. Instead of the roughly 100-pound systems that traditionally required several operators, Spotter Global developed compact radar technology for providing situational awareness to small teams operating in remote areas. A compact radar covering a surprisingly large area Logan demonstrates a radar unit with roughly a 600-meter range that uses about eight watts of power and can monitor approximately 40 acres. Radar provides the wide-area detection layer while cameras and additional analytics help determine what the radar actually found. SnapTrack brings live targets directly onto the map Spotter Global's SnapTrack feature combines target location information with live camera imagery. Rather than forcing an operator to monitor a wall of camera feeds, a target can appear on a map with picture-in-picture video once a camera acquires it. Radar + cameras + video AI to reduce false alarms Sorg compares the technology to conventional security cameras that send an alert without making it clear whether the movement came from a person, vehicle, animal, or even a tree branch. Spotter combines radar tracking, GPS coordinates, metadata, cameras, and video analytics to add multiple levels of verification. Critical infrastructure and the Metcalf substation attack Logan discusses how the 2013 attack on the Metcalf electrical substation in California highlighted vulnerabilities around major infrastructure. That helped drive demand for security systems capable of monitoring activity well beyond a facility's fence line. Drones over a Fourth of July event Logan describes assisting local law enforcement around a fireworks event where four drones flew around or over a stadium containing approximately 50,000 people. Police were able to intercept two of the operators. Remote ID: a “license plate” for drones Remote ID is compared to ADS-B on traditional aircraft. Compatible drones broadcast information including an identifier and location data, allowing detection systems to track the aircraft and, in some cases, identify the location of its operator. Spotter Global's Remote ID sensor Logan demonstrates a compact sensor capable of monitoring a large surrounding area for Remote ID broadcasts and plotting drone tracks and operator locations on a map. The 250-gram threshold and smaller drones The conversation looks at how weight affects Remote ID requirements and why some very small consumer drones operate differently from larger aircraft. DIY drones, RC aircraft, and external Remote ID beacons Sorg connects the discussion to SAE Aero Design competitions and student-built aircraft. Logan demonstrates a small Remote ID transmitter that can be attached to a DIY aircraft that needs to comply with Remote ID requirements. DJI and the change from geofencing to warnings Logan discusses DJI's change from firmware-enforced no-fly restrictions to warnings that alert operators when they are entering certain restricted areas without necessarily preventing the aircraft from flying there. Drone activity around major sporting events The conversation touches on drone pilots entering restricted areas around stadium events despite warnings, illustrating why detection and enforcement remain necessary even when consumer drones notify pilots of restrictions. Fiber-optic “FOG” drones Logan identifies fiber-optically guided drones as an important emerging challenge. Instead of communicating with an operator using radio signals, these drones remain physically connected by an extremely thin fiber-optic cable. Why fiber-optic drones are difficult to stop Because control and video travel through fiber rather than a wireless RF link, conventional RF detection and jamming techniques may not work. That increases the importance of radar and other methods of physically detecting the aircraft. Long-range attack drones and the economics of defense Logan contrasts smaller fiber-optic drones with much larger long-range fixed-wing attack drones and discusses the challenge of using extremely expensive defensive weapons against comparatively inexpensive aircraft. Fish farms need radar too One unexpected commercial application is protecting fish farms where millions of dollars of stock could be vulnerable to theft or sabotage. Radar can alert operators to someone approaching a restricted area. Avalanches, rockfalls, and polar bears Spotter's radar technology has moved far beyond its original security mission. Logan mentions applications involving avalanche monitoring, rockfall monitoring, and even tracking polar bears. Entrepreneurship: do it for more than money Logan says entrepreneurship involves too much work and stress for money alone to be the motivation. The Three Rs: Record, Remind, Report Logan's productivity philosophy centers on doing small things consistently: record what needs to happen, establish reminders, and make sure progress gets reported. His lesson is that accomplishing large goals depends on consistently handling the little things.

Can AI make you better at Photoshop instead of replacing Photoshop? Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar explore that question on AwesomeCast 789 as Sorg shares a workflow for turning AI-generated concepts into editable graphics while keeping control of the final design. The crew also gets into Pittsburgh technology history with plans to preserve Westinghouse's Atom Smasher, the impressive Commercial Street Bridge replacement, and the accessibility origins of the modern audiobook. Then the geekery kicks into high gear: Xbox expands its classic-game preservation efforts to PC, Hasbro combines Transformers with Jem and the Holograms, LEGO brings Smart Play to Star Trek, Robosen releases an Optimus Prime robot designed to reopen childhood wounds, and Universal plans movies based on ten Atari properties. Plus, Chachi has gaming headlines involving Hasbro, Steam Deck and Atari, and the crew discusses the backlash surrounding a $58,000 humanoid robot proposed for use in a New York school district. It's Pittsburgh technology, AI creativity, retro gaming, accessibility, robots and pop-culture nostalgia on AwesomeCast 789.

Sorg welcomes guest co-hosts Tina Keys and TruePrinceofPro (T-Pop) for a packed Wrestling Mayhem Show! The crew breaks down AEW Redemption, Kenny Omega and Kevin Knight, Will Ospreay and the Death Riders, Kyle Fletcher vs. Bandido, Maya World, Tommaso Ciampa and the continuing evolution of Ring of Honor. Then it's on to SummerSlam, including the two-night lineup, Punk and Cody, Roman and Seth, Penta vs. Chad Gable, the women's ladder match and one extremely strange Joe Hendry/Danhausen segment. Plus: WWE Radio and SiriusXM, changing wrestling streaming options, Rebel's ALS benefit efforts, T-Pop's complete AAA update, Dominik Mysterio joining forces with Omos, Penta's AAA return, Sorgstock announcements, Pittsburgh indie wrestling and our weekly What We Learned! Hosted by Sorg with Tina Keys and TruePrinceofPro. More Wrestling Mayhem Show: www.wrestlingmayhemshow.com

Sorg welcomes guest co-hosts Tina Keys and TruePrinceofPro (T-Pop) for a packed Wrestling Mayhem Show! The crew breaks down AEW Redemption, Kenny Omega and Kevin Knight, Will Ospreay and the Death Riders, Kyle Fletcher vs. Bandido, Maya World, Tommaso Ciampa and the continuing evolution of Ring of Honor. Then it's on to SummerSlam, including the two-night lineup, Punk and Cody, Roman and Seth, Penta vs. Chad Gable, the women's ladder match and one extremely strange Joe Hendry/Danhausen segment. Plus: WWE Radio and SiriusXM, changing wrestling streaming options, Rebel's ALS benefit efforts, T-Pop's complete AAA update, Dominik Mysterio joining forces with Omos, Penta's AAA return, Sorgstock announcements, Pittsburgh indie wrestling and our weekly What We Learned! Hosted by Sorg with Tina Keys and TruePrinceofPro. More Wrestling Mayhem Show: www.wrestlingmayhemshow.com

Can AI make you better at Photoshop instead of replacing Photoshop? Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar explore that question on AwesomeCast 789 as Sorg shares a workflow for turning AI-generated concepts into editable graphics while keeping control of the final design. The crew also gets into Pittsburgh technology history with plans to preserve Westinghouse's Atom Smasher, the impressive Commercial Street Bridge replacement, and the accessibility origins of the modern audiobook. Then the geekery kicks into high gear: Xbox expands its classic-game preservation efforts to PC, Hasbro combines Transformers with Jem and the Holograms, LEGO brings Smart Play to Star Trek, Robosen releases an Optimus Prime robot designed to reopen childhood wounds, and Universal plans movies based on ten Atari properties. Plus, Chachi has gaming headlines involving Hasbro, Steam Deck and Atari, and the crew discusses the backlash surrounding a $58,000 humanoid robot proposed for use in a New York school district. It's Pittsburgh technology, AI creativity, retro gaming, accessibility, robots and pop-culture nostalgia on AwesomeCast 789.

Sorg welcomes guest co-hosts Tina Keys and TruePrinceofPro (T-Pop) for a packed Wrestling Mayhem Show! The crew breaks down AEW Redemption, Kenny Omega and Kevin Knight, Will Ospreay and the Death Riders, Kyle Fletcher vs. Bandido, Maya World, Tommaso Ciampa and the continuing evolution of Ring of Honor. Then it's on to SummerSlam, including the two-night lineup, Punk and Cody, Roman and Seth, Penta vs. Chad Gable, the women's ladder match and one extremely strange Joe Hendry/Danhausen segment. Plus: WWE Radio and SiriusXM, changing wrestling streaming options, Rebel's ALS benefit efforts, T-Pop's complete AAA update, Dominik Mysterio joining forces with Omos, Penta's AAA return, Sorgstock announcements, Pittsburgh indie wrestling and our weekly What We Learned! Hosted by Sorg with Tina Keys and TruePrinceofPro. More Wrestling Mayhem Show: www.wrestlingmayhemshow.com

The negotiations are open once again as the Wrestling Mayhem Show presents Brianna & Bradley Summit 2, hosted by Sorg with Patreon Manager Bradley and pro wrestler Brianna Bandz. Bradley has apparently purchased the Wrestling Mayhem Show for the afternoon and transformed it into “Bradley Radio,” which means there is only one order of business: finally settling his complicated relationship with Brianna. There's just one problem—Brianna insists she already moved on. Brianna talks about the personal and professional changes she has experienced since the last Summit, including taking time for herself after the loss of her grandmother, losing a longtime job and navigating a difficult stretch outside of wrestling. She explains why she feels ready to get back to a more regular schedule and how music from Madison Beer inspired both a change in outlook and the angel wings that have become part of her wrestling presentation. The conversation also gets serious as Brianna reflects on her Fight for Pride match with Nikki Winters. Long before stepping into a real wrestling ring together, the two friends were creating themselves in wrestling video games and imagining the careers they wanted. Years later, they found themselves across the ring from one another for an emotional match celebrating representation—and realizing the impact their journeys could have on people watching. Brianna also discusses growing her career beyond her home area, working across multiple states and Canada, and the role social media has played in creating opportunities. One infamous interaction involving Bradley has now reached approximately six million views. Then it's time for Bradley's Declarations. He confirms that he really does have a job, celebrates winning $105 at Beastman's Birthday Bash, explains his problem with WWE's Green Shirt Guy, gets deep into some wrestling grievances and finally looks back at his own participation in the Wrestling Mayhem Show's 20th anniversary event. That anniversary experience leads to an unexpectedly insightful discussion about performance anxiety, preparation, improvisation and why getting into a wrestling ring—even just to talk—is much harder than fans may realize. But the biggest declaration comes last. After years of insults, social-media fights and Brianna repeatedly attacking Bradley's shins, real-life struggles gave the two a different perspective on one another. Bradley admits that somewhere along the way, the feud turned into an actual friendship. Brianna agrees. Mostly. And after the Summit, watch Brianna Bandz and the rest of the action from MV Young's Big Ass BBQ 5: https://www.indywrestling.network/videos/880-wrestling-mv-young-s-big-ass-bbq-5-1

The negotiations are open once again as the Wrestling Mayhem Show presents Brianna & Bradley Summit 2, hosted by Sorg with Patreon Manager Bradley and pro wrestler Brianna Bandz. Bradley has apparently purchased the Wrestling Mayhem Show for the afternoon and transformed it into “Bradley Radio,” which means there is only one order of business: finally settling his complicated relationship with Brianna. There's just one problem—Brianna insists she already moved on. Brianna talks about the personal and professional changes she has experienced since the last Summit, including taking time for herself after the loss of her grandmother, losing a longtime job and navigating a difficult stretch outside of wrestling. She explains why she feels ready to get back to a more regular schedule and how music from Madison Beer inspired both a change in outlook and the angel wings that have become part of her wrestling presentation. The conversation also gets serious as Brianna reflects on her Fight for Pride match with Nikki Winters. Long before stepping into a real wrestling ring together, the two friends were creating themselves in wrestling video games and imagining the careers they wanted. Years later, they found themselves across the ring from one another for an emotional match celebrating representation—and realizing the impact their journeys could have on people watching. Brianna also discusses growing her career beyond her home area, working across multiple states and Canada, and the role social media has played in creating opportunities. One infamous interaction involving Bradley has now reached approximately six million views. Then it's time for Bradley's Declarations. He confirms that he really does have a job, celebrates winning $105 at Beastman's Birthday Bash, explains his problem with WWE's Green Shirt Guy, gets deep into some wrestling grievances and finally looks back at his own participation in the Wrestling Mayhem Show's 20th anniversary event. That anniversary experience leads to an unexpectedly insightful discussion about performance anxiety, preparation, improvisation and why getting into a wrestling ring—even just to talk—is much harder than fans may realize. But the biggest declaration comes last. After years of insults, social-media fights and Brianna repeatedly attacking Bradley's shins, real-life struggles gave the two a different perspective on one another. Bradley admits that somewhere along the way, the feud turned into an actual friendship. Brianna agrees. Mostly. And after the Summit, watch Brianna Bandz and the rest of the action from MV Young's Big Ass BBQ 5: https://www.indywrestling.network/videos/880-wrestling-mv-young-s-big-ass-bbq-5-1

The negotiations are open once again as the Wrestling Mayhem Show presents Brianna & Bradley Summit 2, hosted by Sorg with Patreon Manager Bradley and pro wrestler Brianna Bandz. Bradley has apparently purchased the Wrestling Mayhem Show for the afternoon and transformed it into “Bradley Radio,” which means there is only one order of business: finally settling his complicated relationship with Brianna. There's just one problem—Brianna insists she already moved on. Brianna talks about the personal and professional changes she has experienced since the last Summit, including taking time for herself after the loss of her grandmother, losing a longtime job and navigating a difficult stretch outside of wrestling. She explains why she feels ready to get back to a more regular schedule and how music from Madison Beer inspired both a change in outlook and the angel wings that have become part of her wrestling presentation. The conversation also gets serious as Brianna reflects on her Fight for Pride match with Nikki Winters. Long before stepping into a real wrestling ring together, the two friends were creating themselves in wrestling video games and imagining the careers they wanted. Years later, they found themselves across the ring from one another for an emotional match celebrating representation—and realizing the impact their journeys could have on people watching. Brianna also discusses growing her career beyond her home area, working across multiple states and Canada, and the role social media has played in creating opportunities. One infamous interaction involving Bradley has now reached approximately six million views. Then it's time for Bradley's Declarations. He confirms that he really does have a job, celebrates winning $105 at Beastman's Birthday Bash, explains his problem with WWE's Green Shirt Guy, gets deep into some wrestling grievances and finally looks back at his own participation in the Wrestling Mayhem Show's 20th anniversary event. That anniversary experience leads to an unexpectedly insightful discussion about performance anxiety, preparation, improvisation and why getting into a wrestling ring—even just to talk—is much harder than fans may realize. But the biggest declaration comes last. After years of insults, social-media fights and Brianna repeatedly attacking Bradley's shins, real-life struggles gave the two a different perspective on one another. Bradley admits that somewhere along the way, the feud turned into an actual friendship. Brianna agrees. Mostly. And after the Summit, watch Brianna Bandz and the rest of the action from MV Young's Big Ass BBQ 5: https://www.indywrestling.network/videos/880-wrestling-mv-young-s-big-ass-bbq-5-1

This week on AwesomeCast 788, Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar explore the growing appeal of retro technology, screen-free devices, customizable gadgets, and digital tools that give users more control. Katie begins with Mama's Night Off, a browser game inspired by Dungeon Crawler Carl and the Maeve Chocolate Dirty Shirley bar. Dave introduces Garmin's new screenless fitness tracker, an alternative to smartwatches and subscription-heavy wearables. Sorg shares his experience setting up RetroArch on Apple TV, including its wide range of supported systems, open-source games, ROM management, controllers, and the tinkering required to make everything work. The conversation expands into the tension between digital convenience and physical ownership. The hosts discuss GameStop's response to Sony's physical-media decisions, the rapid progress of PlayStation 5 emulation, and why consumers are returning to CDs, vinyl, cassettes, retro games, and other physical formats. They also have an extended discussion about generative AI, creative production, AI-assisted image editing, automation tools, corporate responsibility, electrical-grid pressures, and the rapid construction of data centers. The hosts examine the difference between rejecting AI entirely and learning how to use it responsibly while still demanding accountability from businesses and government. Later, the show looks at NASA's Psyche spacecraft capturing a Mars flyby, Pittsburgh movie history through the Pastfinders app, a minimalist flip phone for people who want fewer distractions, a development board that turns old Nintendo Wii Remotes into customizable controllers, and Google Photos restoring a traditional search option alongside Ask Photos. Stories and Gadgets Discussed Awesome Things of the Week Mama's Night Off and the Maeve Chocolate Dirty Shirley Bar Katie shares a browser-based game connected to Dungeon Crawler Carl. Players fire magical projectiles at cherries to help create Mama's Dirty Shirley. The hosts discuss the game's intentionally retro presentation and voice work by Jeff Hays. Play the game and view the chocolate bar: https://maevechocolate.com/products/virgin-dirty-shirley/?game Garmin's Screenless Fitness Tracker Dave introduces Garmin's wearable fitness tracker designed without a screen. The device offers health and activity tracking without requiring users to wear a full smartwatch. The hosts discuss its approximately ten-day battery life, Garmin Connect compatibility, optional Garmin Connect+ subscription, and Garmin's reputation for durable hardware and direct fitness feedback. Engadget: https://www.engadget.com/2219713/garmin-finally-made-a-screenless-fitness-tracker/ Garmin product information: https://www.garmin.com/en-US/p/1989182/#specs RetroArch on Apple TV Sorg explains how RetroArch can turn an Apple TV into a multi-system retro-gaming device. The software supports numerous systems, including Nintendo, Sega, arcade, PlayStation-era platforms, and older computer games. The hosts discuss Bluetooth controllers, open-source games, shareware versions of Doom and Wolfenstein, storage limitations, organizing ROM libraries, and troubleshooting incompatible files. Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/retroarch/id6499539433 Supported platforms: https://www.retroarch.com/?page=platforms Awesome Person of the Week Ralph Teetor and the Invention of Cruise Control Dave highlights engineer Ralph Teetor, who became blind as a child and later earned engineering degrees. Frustrated by the repeated acceleration and deceleration of drivers, Teetor developed an early version of cruise control. The hosts discuss the evolution from basic speed control to adaptive cruise control and its relationship to modern driver-assistance systems. Teetor later served as president of the Society of Automotive Engineers, and an SAE award for educators bears his name. Automotive Hall of Fame: https://automotivehalloffame.org/honoree/ralph-r-teetor/ Chachi Says Video Game Minute Playing GTA III and Vice City Inside GTA: San Andreas A PC mod allows players controlling CJ in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas to walk up to an in-game television and launch GTA III or Vice City. The hosts compare the concept to a video-game version of Inception. https://www.tomshardware.com/video-games/pc-gaming/gta-3-and-vice-city-are-now-playable-inside-san-andreas-a-mod-lets-you-revisit-liberty-city-and-vice-city-without-leaving-san-andreas GameStop's CEO Responds to the Decline of Physical Games GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen argues that Sony reducing physical-disc support will not significantly hurt the company because new video-game sales represent a relatively small portion of its business. The discussion includes GameStop's continued interest in eBay and the changing economics of physical game retail. https://www.ign.com/articles/gamestop-ceo-ryan-cohen-insists-sony-killing-physical-discs-doesnt-matter-at-all-because-video-game-sales-make-up-so-little-of-his-business PlayStation 5 Emulation Progress Developers are making progress booting PlayStation 5 titles through multiple emulation projects. Two-dimensional games are advancing more quickly, while fully rendering complex three-dimensional games remains a significant challenge. The story sparks a broader conversation about game preservation, physical ownership, digital licensing, and consumer distrust. https://www.tomshardware.com/video-games/playstation/ps5-emulation-ramps-up-in-wake-of-sonys-end-to-physical-media-ps5-titles-now-booting-across-different-emulators-with-rapid-community-development-for-both-2d-and-3d-games AI, Creative Work and Data Centers The hosts discuss the growing use of AI-assisted tools in image editing, video production, business documents, email, captions, background extension, and design mockups. Sorg explains how AI can help reformat posters for different social-media dimensions without replacing the original creative work. The discussion distinguishes generative AI from other machine-learning tools, such as automated transcription, rotoscoping, search, and image organization. Dave raises concerns about social-media challenges potentially being used to gather free voice-training data. The group discusses how Google, Adobe, Canva, and other platforms increasingly build AI functions directly into existing software. The hosts argue that professionals cannot simply ignore the technology, but they should evaluate where it is appropriate and disclose its use when needed. The discussion also addresses the electrical demands of new data centers, corporate incentives, local government decisions, environmental protections, grid capacity, and the disproportionate placement of industrial infrastructure near lower-income communities. Their central argument is that rapid technological growth must be accompanied by accountability, regulation, public representation, and responsible development. NASA Psyche Mars Flyby NASA's Psyche spacecraft used a Mars flyby as a gravitational assist while traveling deeper into the solar system. The mission captured detailed images and a time-lapse view of Mars during the maneuver. Dave highlights the value of scientific exploration driven by curiosity and the desire to understand more about the universe. https://science.nasa.gov/blogs/psyche/2026/07/17/nasas-psyche-mission-delivers-mars-flyby-data-time-lapse-video/ Pittsburgh Bridges on Film and Pastfinders Sorg highlights a collaboration between Pastfinders and the Pittsburgh Film Office focused on Pittsburgh bridges featured in movies and television. Examples discussed include locations connected to Mayor of Kingstown, Sweet Girl, Jack Reacher, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, The Dark Knight Rises, Dogma, The Silence of the Lambs, and Mindhunter. The hosts discuss how the Pastfinders app sends location-based notifications about historical sites, movie locations, landmarks, and unusual local stories. Pastfinders: https://www.pastfinders.app/ Pittsburgh Film Office bridge-tour post: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1458603939638716&set=pcb.1458603999638710 The Light Flip Minimalist Phone The hosts examine a modern minimalist flip phone inspired by classic designs. It uses physical buttons, T9-style typing, a small screen, and a dedicated operating system rather than standard Android. The group discusses the appeal for people who want calls, messages, navigation, and limited apps without carrying a high-powered smartphone. They also consider whether younger users might adopt simpler phones to reduce social-media use and screen time. https://9to5google.com/2026/07/21/light-flip-minimalist-phone-announcement/ OpenMote: Repurposing the Nintendo Wii Remote Sorg introduces OpenMote, a drop-in development board that turns a Nintendo Wii Remote into a customizable controller. Demonstrations include pointing the remote at lamps to control them. The hosts brainstorm uses for smart-home controls, games, production equipment, lighting effects, custom 3D-printed controllers, and event technology. OpenMote: https://openmote.io/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio Instagram demonstration: https://www.instagram.com/reels/Da8p5B7PNKP/ OpenMote Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmote.io/ Google Photos Restores Classic Search Google Photos is adding an option that lets users choose between the newer Gemini-powered Ask Photos experience and a more traditional search interface. The hosts discuss why some users prefer entering straightforward terms rather than asking an AI-generated question. The change becomes an example of why providing a choice can reduce frustration when companies add AI to familiar products. https://9to5google.com/2026/07/20/google-photos-classic-search-toggle/ Also Discussed The return of CDs, vinyl records, cassettes, retro games, and physical media. The difference between owning digital media and licensing access to it. Consumer distrust of large technology companies. The space required to store large physical-media collections. Using Gemini to interpret business acronyms and generate a first draft of a statement of work. Severe-weather alerts and Katie briefly leaving the podcast during a tornado warning. Dave's upcoming races, including the Two-Face Race and Trick or Trot 5K. The next AwesomeCast interview with Spotter Global and its technology for detecting drones and identifying operators. Support the show at: https://www.patreon.com/awesomecast Discover more from the Sorgatron Media Podcast Network: https://sorgatronmedia.com

Pro wrestler Dani Mo returns to the Wrestling Mayhem Show studio with Sorg and Mad Mike for a conversation about stepping away from wrestling, returning with a renewed perspective and embracing every strange opportunity the business provides. Dani takes the crew aboard her cross-country family adventure by train, traveling from Pittsburgh through Chicago, Seattle, San Francisco and beyond. She talks about first-class Amtrak accommodations, observation cars, full meals, sightseeing, hiking through Yosemite, camping on the way to Las Vegas and seeing No Doubt at the Sphere. More importantly, Dani explains why disconnecting from wrestling—even briefly—helped her decompress and appreciate the experiences waiting outside the ring. Back in wrestling, Dani discusses her acclaimed match with a visiting STARDOM competitor at Enjoy Wrestling, her desire to wrestle in Japan and the opportunities she has received to work with international talent. She also breaks down her unpredictable run in Juggalo Championship Wrestling, where she is expanding her character work, delivering longer promos, destroying cars, confronting Barnabas and navigating one of wrestling's wildest fictional family dramas as a two-time JCW Women's Champion. Mad Mike reports from Madison Square Garden, including the energy surrounding CM Punk, the New York Knicks-themed celebration and a WWE show that sometimes felt like a televised house show built specifically for the local audience. The crew also discusses SummerSlam possibilities, Sami Zayn's direction, Nick Aldis returning to the ring and the unseen wrestlers whose scheduled matches disappear whenever an authority figure creates a new main event. The episode also features the first match announcement for Sorgstock, memories from Beastman's Big Ass Birthday Bash, thoughts on WWE Unreal, questions about the value of Club WWE, AEW and STARDOM crossover, the G1 Climax and a spirited debate about roller coasters, wrestling-ring pools and the value of letting wrestling be fun. News Stories and Topics Discussed Mad Mike's Madison Square Garden experience: Mad Mike compares the reactions for CM Punk and the New York Knicks celebration while describing the unusual atmosphere of a WWE television show created heavily around its host city. CM Punk's latest major moment: The crew discusses Punk's return, championship victory and the difference between hearing a massive wrestling reaction on television and experiencing it inside the arena. New York Knicks crossover: The hosts examine the Knicks references, celebrity involvement and why parts of the show were especially rewarding for local basketball fans. WWE women's tag-team speculation: The group considers whether the current champions are temporary and whether WWE could be building toward a SummerSlam program involving the Bella Twins. What happens next for Sami Zayn: Mad Mike questions Sami's current direction and whether he could be added to another major match rather than being left without a clear SummerSlam story. Nick Aldis returning to competition: The hosts discuss Aldis moving from an authority role back into the ring, his extensive pre-WWE career and the importance of presenting him as a legitimate wrestler rather than merely an on-screen general manager. “Card Subject to Change”: A joke about wrestlers being removed from suddenly rearranged television cards evolves into a pitch for a comedy series focused on the performers who thought they had a match before the main event was rewritten. Mad Mike conquers the Royal Rumble arcade game: The crew revisits the game's classic roster and attempts to guess which wrestler Mad Mike used to win. The answer leads to an enthusiastic appreciation of D'Lo Brown. Dani Mo's cross-country train adventure: Dani describes traveling with her family in first-class Amtrak accommodations, sleeping in compact rooms, visiting the observation car and experiencing freshly prepared meals during the journey. Chicago, Seattle and San Francisco: The trip includes the Bean, Seattle's Space Needle and gum wall, the redwoods, Alcatraz, Lombard Street, the Golden Gate Bridge and several of Dani's signature travel handstands. Disconnecting from wrestling: Dani explains how the trip allowed her to stop checking messages, ignore most wrestling responsibilities and return feeling more relaxed—even when several planned bookings were unexpectedly canceled. Yosemite and dispersed camping: After leaving her family in San Francisco, Dani continues the adventure with a friend, tackles the difficult Mist Trail, earns a fire permit and camps while traveling toward Las Vegas. No Doubt at the Sphere: Dani talks about seeing Gwen Stefani up close, buying an impressive amount of merchandise and finally reaching the concert that served as the trip's destination. Why travel matters: The group reflects on how seeing different regions, cultures and lifestyles can change a person's perspective, even without leaving the United States. Enjoy Wrestling and international competition: Dani looks back on her standout match with a visiting STARDOM wrestler and explains why she believes her recent performances against Japanese talent show that she is ready for an opportunity in Japan. Dani Mo's JCW evolution: Dani discusses developing a more aggressive and three-dimensional character, improving her extended promo work and becoming comfortable performing inside JCW's deliberately chaotic environment. The Barnabas family saga: Dani explains the “daddy issues” driving her JCW storyline, including Barnabas, an adopted rival, implied drug jokes, a damaged car and increasingly personal confrontations. Two-time JCW Women's Champion: Dani discusses working as champion while balancing recognizable babyface qualities with increasingly diabolical actions. Learning through promos: Because much of Dani's recent JCW work has involved storytelling rather than traditional matches, she is gaining experience in an area she considers challenging but necessary for reaching a larger stage. Sorgstock's first match announcement: Sorg officially announces Beastman vs. Gory in “The Big Bite-Off” for the No Limits Championship, reviving a match that could not happen during the previous special event. The Sorgstock atmosphere: The crew previews an unconventional party-style wrestling event featuring strange concepts, visual gags, music and an intentionally loose approach to wrestling canon. Beastman's Big Ass Birthday Bash: Dani and Sorg revisit the themed decorations, fan activities, family involvement, weapons, cake and overall madness surrounding Beastman's 40th birthday celebration. Wrestling shows built around individuals: Beastman's birthday event, Jack Pollock's benefit and other personality-driven cards inspire a discussion about shows that celebrate a specific wrestler's identity and creative vision. Alternate versions of wrestling cards: Dani reveals that several wrestlers arrived at Beastman's show expecting completely different stipulations, including a possible pillow fight and a thumbtack-and-door match. Inflatable wrestling-ring products: An online advertisement for a wrestling-themed pool sends the hosts into a search for inflatable rings and possible future Sorgstock accessories. Kennywood and roller-coaster bravery: Dani responds to allegations that she bullied Derek Dillinger into riding Phantom's Revenge, leading to comparisons of Kennywood attractions and other intense coasters around the country. AEW and STARDOM crossover: The hosts discuss Triangle of Madness, STARDOM championships and the potential for more interaction between AEW's women's division and Japanese wrestling. G1 Climax viewing: Sorg shares his early enthusiasm for the tournament and Konosuke Takeshita while the crew repeatedly finds new ways to make the tournament's name sound inappropriate. WWE Unreal: Mad Mike discusses the behind-the-scenes series, including CM Punk quietly telling John Cena that he would miss him and Cena explaining the creative logic behind his deliberately frustrating WrestleMania performance. John Cena and AJ Styles: The crew examines their tribute-filled match, the decision to use other wrestlers' signature moves and backstage footage of Seth Rollins jokingly confronting them after they produced a difficult act to follow. A crowded wrestling calendar: The group discusses competing events in Chicago, WWE's plans surrounding WrestleMania week, possible New York events and how promotions may fill the space created by WrestleMania taking place outside the United States. Club WWE: Sorg attempts to understand the subscription's value, including exclusive merchandise, ticket access, workout content, personality-driven programs and John Cena's “Unseen 17” concept. Wrestling and major-league merchandise: The hosts consider how WWE's relationship with Fanatics may make city-specific sports collaborations easier than similar partnerships for other wrestling companies. “What We Learned” Segment Breakdown Mad Mike Mad Mike's lesson comes from watching WWE Unreal. During CM Punk's “Doctor of Punkanomics” segment with John Cena, Punk quietly told Cena, “I'm gonna miss you.” It was an emotional detail that was easy to miss during the original broadcast. That revelation leads to a broader discussion about Cena's creative intentions during his final run. Mad Mike notes that Cena's explanation of the WrestleMania match closely matched the show's earlier interpretation: the slow, frustrating and intentionally boring presentation was designed to make the audience reject that version of Cena. Dani Mo Dani says the week reestablished how fun and incredible wrestling can be. Wrestling creates opportunities to travel, meet unusual people and share memorable experiences with friends, family and people who may have only met that day. Her central lesson is that performers can become so serious about wrestling that they fail to appreciate the moment. Beastman's birthday show may not have been the largest event she has worked, but dancing with her family, watching her niece become involved and enjoying the atmosphere made it one of the most fun. Sorg Sorg initially learns that he still does not fully understand what Club WWE is offering subscribers. His more meaningful lesson comes from Beastman's birthday show and other wrestler-centered events. Sorg appreciates cards that allow one person's personality, community and creative definition of wrestling to shape the entire presentation. The conclusion: wrestling needs more “non-canon” shows—events where promotions and performers can temporarily escape normal story structures, celebrate people and try concepts that would not fit on a traditional card. Chat Room and Additional Takeaways The chat highlights the increasingly crowded wrestling calendar and the unusual “battle lines” created when several promotions schedule destination events in the same city or on the same weekend. The closing conversation reinforces that the wrestling world is large enough to contain serious competition, personal celebrations, bizarre comedy, international crossover and experiences that exist simply because they are fun.

Pro wrestler Dani Mo returns to the Wrestling Mayhem Show studio with Sorg and Mad Mike for a conversation about stepping away from wrestling, returning with a renewed perspective and embracing every strange opportunity the business provides. Dani takes the crew aboard her cross-country family adventure by train, traveling from Pittsburgh through Chicago, Seattle, San Francisco and beyond. She talks about first-class Amtrak accommodations, observation cars, full meals, sightseeing, hiking through Yosemite, camping on the way to Las Vegas and seeing No Doubt at the Sphere. More importantly, Dani explains why disconnecting from wrestling—even briefly—helped her decompress and appreciate the experiences waiting outside the ring. Back in wrestling, Dani discusses her acclaimed match with a visiting STARDOM competitor at Enjoy Wrestling, her desire to wrestle in Japan and the opportunities she has received to work with international talent. She also breaks down her unpredictable run in Juggalo Championship Wrestling, where she is expanding her character work, delivering longer promos, destroying cars, confronting Barnabas and navigating one of wrestling's wildest fictional family dramas as a two-time JCW Women's Champion. Mad Mike reports from Madison Square Garden, including the energy surrounding CM Punk, the New York Knicks-themed celebration and a WWE show that sometimes felt like a televised house show built specifically for the local audience. The crew also discusses SummerSlam possibilities, Sami Zayn's direction, Nick Aldis returning to the ring and the unseen wrestlers whose scheduled matches disappear whenever an authority figure creates a new main event. The episode also features the first match announcement for Sorgstock, memories from Beastman's Big Ass Birthday Bash, thoughts on WWE Unreal, questions about the value of Club WWE, AEW and STARDOM crossover, the G1 Climax and a spirited debate about roller coasters, wrestling-ring pools and the value of letting wrestling be fun. News Stories and Topics Discussed Mad Mike's Madison Square Garden experience: Mad Mike compares the reactions for CM Punk and the New York Knicks celebration while describing the unusual atmosphere of a WWE television show created heavily around its host city. CM Punk's latest major moment: The crew discusses Punk's return, championship victory and the difference between hearing a massive wrestling reaction on television and experiencing it inside the arena. New York Knicks crossover: The hosts examine the Knicks references, celebrity involvement and why parts of the show were especially rewarding for local basketball fans. WWE women's tag-team speculation: The group considers whether the current champions are temporary and whether WWE could be building toward a SummerSlam program involving the Bella Twins. What happens next for Sami Zayn: Mad Mike questions Sami's current direction and whether he could be added to another major match rather than being left without a clear SummerSlam story. Nick Aldis returning to competition: The hosts discuss Aldis moving from an authority role back into the ring, his extensive pre-WWE career and the importance of presenting him as a legitimate wrestler rather than merely an on-screen general manager. “Card Subject to Change”: A joke about wrestlers being removed from suddenly rearranged television cards evolves into a pitch for a comedy series focused on the performers who thought they had a match before the main event was rewritten. Mad Mike conquers the Royal Rumble arcade game: The crew revisits the game's classic roster and attempts to guess which wrestler Mad Mike used to win. The answer leads to an enthusiastic appreciation of D'Lo Brown. Dani Mo's cross-country train adventure: Dani describes traveling with her family in first-class Amtrak accommodations, sleeping in compact rooms, visiting the observation car and experiencing freshly prepared meals during the journey. Chicago, Seattle and San Francisco: The trip includes the Bean, Seattle's Space Needle and gum wall, the redwoods, Alcatraz, Lombard Street, the Golden Gate Bridge and several of Dani's signature travel handstands. Disconnecting from wrestling: Dani explains how the trip allowed her to stop checking messages, ignore most wrestling responsibilities and return feeling more relaxed—even when several planned bookings were unexpectedly canceled. Yosemite and dispersed camping: After leaving her family in San Francisco, Dani continues the adventure with a friend, tackles the difficult Mist Trail, earns a fire permit and camps while traveling toward Las Vegas. No Doubt at the Sphere: Dani talks about seeing Gwen Stefani up close, buying an impressive amount of merchandise and finally reaching the concert that served as the trip's destination. Why travel matters: The group reflects on how seeing different regions, cultures and lifestyles can change a person's perspective, even without leaving the United States. Enjoy Wrestling and international competition: Dani looks back on her standout match with a visiting STARDOM wrestler and explains why she believes her recent performances against Japanese talent show that she is ready for an opportunity in Japan. Dani Mo's JCW evolution: Dani discusses developing a more aggressive and three-dimensional character, improving her extended promo work and becoming comfortable performing inside JCW's deliberately chaotic environment. The Barnabas family saga: Dani explains the “daddy issues” driving her JCW storyline, including Barnabas, an adopted rival, implied drug jokes, a damaged car and increasingly personal confrontations. Two-time JCW Women's Champion: Dani discusses working as champion while balancing recognizable babyface qualities with increasingly diabolical actions. Learning through promos: Because much of Dani's recent JCW work has involved storytelling rather than traditional matches, she is gaining experience in an area she considers challenging but necessary for reaching a larger stage. Sorgstock's first match announcement: Sorg officially announces Beastman vs. Gory in “The Big Bite-Off” for the No Limits Championship, reviving a match that could not happen during the previous special event. The Sorgstock atmosphere: The crew previews an unconventional party-style wrestling event featuring strange concepts, visual gags, music and an intentionally loose approach to wrestling canon. Beastman's Big Ass Birthday Bash: Dani and Sorg revisit the themed decorations, fan activities, family involvement, weapons, cake and overall madness surrounding Beastman's 40th birthday celebration. Wrestling shows built around individuals: Beastman's birthday event, Jack Pollock's benefit and other personality-driven cards inspire a discussion about shows that celebrate a specific wrestler's identity and creative vision. Alternate versions of wrestling cards: Dani reveals that several wrestlers arrived at Beastman's show expecting completely different stipulations, including a possible pillow fight and a thumbtack-and-door match. Inflatable wrestling-ring products: An online advertisement for a wrestling-themed pool sends the hosts into a search for inflatable rings and possible future Sorgstock accessories. Kennywood and roller-coaster bravery: Dani responds to allegations that she bullied Derek Dillinger into riding Phantom's Revenge, leading to comparisons of Kennywood attractions and other intense coasters around the country. AEW and STARDOM crossover: The hosts discuss Triangle of Madness, STARDOM championships and the potential for more interaction between AEW's women's division and Japanese wrestling. G1 Climax viewing: Sorg shares his early enthusiasm for the tournament and Konosuke Takeshita while the crew repeatedly finds new ways to make the tournament's name sound inappropriate. WWE Unreal: Mad Mike discusses the behind-the-scenes series, including CM Punk quietly telling John Cena that he would miss him and Cena explaining the creative logic behind his deliberately frustrating WrestleMania performance. John Cena and AJ Styles: The crew examines their tribute-filled match, the decision to use other wrestlers' signature moves and backstage footage of Seth Rollins jokingly confronting them after they produced a difficult act to follow. A crowded wrestling calendar: The group discusses competing events in Chicago, WWE's plans surrounding WrestleMania week, possible New York events and how promotions may fill the space created by WrestleMania taking place outside the United States. Club WWE: Sorg attempts to understand the subscription's value, including exclusive merchandise, ticket access, workout content, personality-driven programs and John Cena's “Unseen 17” concept. Wrestling and major-league merchandise: The hosts consider how WWE's relationship with Fanatics may make city-specific sports collaborations easier than similar partnerships for other wrestling companies. “What We Learned” Segment Breakdown Mad Mike Mad Mike's lesson comes from watching WWE Unreal. During CM Punk's “Doctor of Punkanomics” segment with John Cena, Punk quietly told Cena, “I'm gonna miss you.” It was an emotional detail that was easy to miss during the original broadcast. That revelation leads to a broader discussion about Cena's creative intentions during his final run. Mad Mike notes that Cena's explanation of the WrestleMania match closely matched the show's earlier interpretation: the slow, frustrating and intentionally boring presentation was designed to make the audience reject that version of Cena. Dani Mo Dani says the week reestablished how fun and incredible wrestling can be. Wrestling creates opportunities to travel, meet unusual people and share memorable experiences with friends, family and people who may have only met that day. Her central lesson is that performers can become so serious about wrestling that they fail to appreciate the moment. Beastman's birthday show may not have been the largest event she has worked, but dancing with her family, watching her niece become involved and enjoying the atmosphere made it one of the most fun. Sorg Sorg initially learns that he still does not fully understand what Club WWE is offering subscribers. His more meaningful lesson comes from Beastman's birthday show and other wrestler-centered events. Sorg appreciates cards that allow one person's personality, community and creative definition of wrestling to shape the entire presentation. The conclusion: wrestling needs more “non-canon” shows—events where promotions and performers can temporarily escape normal story structures, celebrate people and try concepts that would not fit on a traditional card. Chat Room and Additional Takeaways The chat highlights the increasingly crowded wrestling calendar and the unusual “battle lines” created when several promotions schedule destination events in the same city or on the same weekend. The closing conversation reinforces that the wrestling world is large enough to contain serious competition, personal celebrations, bizarre comedy, international crossover and experiences that exist simply because they are fun.

Pro wrestler Dani Mo returns to the Wrestling Mayhem Show studio with Sorg and Mad Mike for a conversation about stepping away from wrestling, returning with a renewed perspective and embracing every strange opportunity the business provides. Dani takes the crew aboard her cross-country family adventure by train, traveling from Pittsburgh through Chicago, Seattle, San Francisco and beyond. She talks about first-class Amtrak accommodations, observation cars, full meals, sightseeing, hiking through Yosemite, camping on the way to Las Vegas and seeing No Doubt at the Sphere. More importantly, Dani explains why disconnecting from wrestling—even briefly—helped her decompress and appreciate the experiences waiting outside the ring. Back in wrestling, Dani discusses her acclaimed match with a visiting STARDOM competitor at Enjoy Wrestling, her desire to wrestle in Japan and the opportunities she has received to work with international talent. She also breaks down her unpredictable run in Juggalo Championship Wrestling, where she is expanding her character work, delivering longer promos, destroying cars, confronting Barnabas and navigating one of wrestling's wildest fictional family dramas as a two-time JCW Women's Champion. Mad Mike reports from Madison Square Garden, including the energy surrounding CM Punk, the New York Knicks-themed celebration and a WWE show that sometimes felt like a televised house show built specifically for the local audience. The crew also discusses SummerSlam possibilities, Sami Zayn's direction, Nick Aldis returning to the ring and the unseen wrestlers whose scheduled matches disappear whenever an authority figure creates a new main event. The episode also features the first match announcement for Sorgstock, memories from Beastman's Big Ass Birthday Bash, thoughts on WWE Unreal, questions about the value of Club WWE, AEW and STARDOM crossover, the G1 Climax and a spirited debate about roller coasters, wrestling-ring pools and the value of letting wrestling be fun. News Stories and Topics Discussed Mad Mike's Madison Square Garden experience: Mad Mike compares the reactions for CM Punk and the New York Knicks celebration while describing the unusual atmosphere of a WWE television show created heavily around its host city. CM Punk's latest major moment: The crew discusses Punk's return, championship victory and the difference between hearing a massive wrestling reaction on television and experiencing it inside the arena. New York Knicks crossover: The hosts examine the Knicks references, celebrity involvement and why parts of the show were especially rewarding for local basketball fans. WWE women's tag-team speculation: The group considers whether the current champions are temporary and whether WWE could be building toward a SummerSlam program involving the Bella Twins. What happens next for Sami Zayn: Mad Mike questions Sami's current direction and whether he could be added to another major match rather than being left without a clear SummerSlam story. Nick Aldis returning to competition: The hosts discuss Aldis moving from an authority role back into the ring, his extensive pre-WWE career and the importance of presenting him as a legitimate wrestler rather than merely an on-screen general manager. “Card Subject to Change”: A joke about wrestlers being removed from suddenly rearranged television cards evolves into a pitch for a comedy series focused on the performers who thought they had a match before the main event was rewritten. Mad Mike conquers the Royal Rumble arcade game: The crew revisits the game's classic roster and attempts to guess which wrestler Mad Mike used to win. The answer leads to an enthusiastic appreciation of D'Lo Brown. Dani Mo's cross-country train adventure: Dani describes traveling with her family in first-class Amtrak accommodations, sleeping in compact rooms, visiting the observation car and experiencing freshly prepared meals during the journey. Chicago, Seattle and San Francisco: The trip includes the Bean, Seattle's Space Needle and gum wall, the redwoods, Alcatraz, Lombard Street, the Golden Gate Bridge and several of Dani's signature travel handstands. Disconnecting from wrestling: Dani explains how the trip allowed her to stop checking messages, ignore most wrestling responsibilities and return feeling more relaxed—even when several planned bookings were unexpectedly canceled. Yosemite and dispersed camping: After leaving her family in San Francisco, Dani continues the adventure with a friend, tackles the difficult Mist Trail, earns a fire permit and camps while traveling toward Las Vegas. No Doubt at the Sphere: Dani talks about seeing Gwen Stefani up close, buying an impressive amount of merchandise and finally reaching the concert that served as the trip's destination. Why travel matters: The group reflects on how seeing different regions, cultures and lifestyles can change a person's perspective, even without leaving the United States. Enjoy Wrestling and international competition: Dani looks back on her standout match with a visiting STARDOM wrestler and explains why she believes her recent performances against Japanese talent show that she is ready for an opportunity in Japan. Dani Mo's JCW evolution: Dani discusses developing a more aggressive and three-dimensional character, improving her extended promo work and becoming comfortable performing inside JCW's deliberately chaotic environment. The Barnabas family saga: Dani explains the “daddy issues” driving her JCW storyline, including Barnabas, an adopted rival, implied drug jokes, a damaged car and increasingly personal confrontations. Two-time JCW Women's Champion: Dani discusses working as champion while balancing recognizable babyface qualities with increasingly diabolical actions. Learning through promos: Because much of Dani's recent JCW work has involved storytelling rather than traditional matches, she is gaining experience in an area she considers challenging but necessary for reaching a larger stage. Sorgstock's first match announcement: Sorg officially announces Beastman vs. Gory in “The Big Bite-Off” for the No Limits Championship, reviving a match that could not happen during the previous special event. The Sorgstock atmosphere: The crew previews an unconventional party-style wrestling event featuring strange concepts, visual gags, music and an intentionally loose approach to wrestling canon. Beastman's Big Ass Birthday Bash: Dani and Sorg revisit the themed decorations, fan activities, family involvement, weapons, cake and overall madness surrounding Beastman's 40th birthday celebration. Wrestling shows built around individuals: Beastman's birthday event, Jack Pollock's benefit and other personality-driven cards inspire a discussion about shows that celebrate a specific wrestler's identity and creative vision. Alternate versions of wrestling cards: Dani reveals that several wrestlers arrived at Beastman's show expecting completely different stipulations, including a possible pillow fight and a thumbtack-and-door match. Inflatable wrestling-ring products: An online advertisement for a wrestling-themed pool sends the hosts into a search for inflatable rings and possible future Sorgstock accessories. Kennywood and roller-coaster bravery: Dani responds to allegations that she bullied Derek Dillinger into riding Phantom's Revenge, leading to comparisons of Kennywood attractions and other intense coasters around the country. AEW and STARDOM crossover: The hosts discuss Triangle of Madness, STARDOM championships and the potential for more interaction between AEW's women's division and Japanese wrestling. G1 Climax viewing: Sorg shares his early enthusiasm for the tournament and Konosuke Takeshita while the crew repeatedly finds new ways to make the tournament's name sound inappropriate. WWE Unreal: Mad Mike discusses the behind-the-scenes series, including CM Punk quietly telling John Cena that he would miss him and Cena explaining the creative logic behind his deliberately frustrating WrestleMania performance. John Cena and AJ Styles: The crew examines their tribute-filled match, the decision to use other wrestlers' signature moves and backstage footage of Seth Rollins jokingly confronting them after they produced a difficult act to follow. A crowded wrestling calendar: The group discusses competing events in Chicago, WWE's plans surrounding WrestleMania week, possible New York events and how promotions may fill the space created by WrestleMania taking place outside the United States. Club WWE: Sorg attempts to understand the subscription's value, including exclusive merchandise, ticket access, workout content, personality-driven programs and John Cena's “Unseen 17” concept. Wrestling and major-league merchandise: The hosts consider how WWE's relationship with Fanatics may make city-specific sports collaborations easier than similar partnerships for other wrestling companies. “What We Learned” Segment Breakdown Mad Mike Mad Mike's lesson comes from watching WWE Unreal. During CM Punk's “Doctor of Punkanomics” segment with John Cena, Punk quietly told Cena, “I'm gonna miss you.” It was an emotional detail that was easy to miss during the original broadcast. That revelation leads to a broader discussion about Cena's creative intentions during his final run. Mad Mike notes that Cena's explanation of the WrestleMania match closely matched the show's earlier interpretation: the slow, frustrating and intentionally boring presentation was designed to make the audience reject that version of Cena. Dani Mo Dani says the week reestablished how fun and incredible wrestling can be. Wrestling creates opportunities to travel, meet unusual people and share memorable experiences with friends, family and people who may have only met that day. Her central lesson is that performers can become so serious about wrestling that they fail to appreciate the moment. Beastman's birthday show may not have been the largest event she has worked, but dancing with her family, watching her niece become involved and enjoying the atmosphere made it one of the most fun. Sorg Sorg initially learns that he still does not fully understand what Club WWE is offering subscribers. His more meaningful lesson comes from Beastman's birthday show and other wrestler-centered events. Sorg appreciates cards that allow one person's personality, community and creative definition of wrestling to shape the entire presentation. The conclusion: wrestling needs more “non-canon” shows—events where promotions and performers can temporarily escape normal story structures, celebrate people and try concepts that would not fit on a traditional card. Chat Room and Additional Takeaways The chat highlights the increasingly crowded wrestling calendar and the unusual “battle lines” created when several promotions schedule destination events in the same city or on the same weekend. The closing conversation reinforces that the wrestling world is large enough to contain serious competition, personal celebrations, bizarre comedy, international crossover and experiences that exist simply because they are fun.

This week on AwesomeCast 788, Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar explore the growing appeal of retro technology, screen-free devices, customizable gadgets, and digital tools that give users more control. Katie begins with Mama's Night Off, a browser game inspired by Dungeon Crawler Carl and the Maeve Chocolate Dirty Shirley bar. Dave introduces Garmin's new screenless fitness tracker, an alternative to smartwatches and subscription-heavy wearables. Sorg shares his experience setting up RetroArch on Apple TV, including its wide range of supported systems, open-source games, ROM management, controllers, and the tinkering required to make everything work. The conversation expands into the tension between digital convenience and physical ownership. The hosts discuss GameStop's response to Sony's physical-media decisions, the rapid progress of PlayStation 5 emulation, and why consumers are returning to CDs, vinyl, cassettes, retro games, and other physical formats. They also have an extended discussion about generative AI, creative production, AI-assisted image editing, automation tools, corporate responsibility, electrical-grid pressures, and the rapid construction of data centers. The hosts examine the difference between rejecting AI entirely and learning how to use it responsibly while still demanding accountability from businesses and government. Later, the show looks at NASA's Psyche spacecraft capturing a Mars flyby, Pittsburgh movie history through the Pastfinders app, a minimalist flip phone for people who want fewer distractions, a development board that turns old Nintendo Wii Remotes into customizable controllers, and Google Photos restoring a traditional search option alongside Ask Photos. Stories and Gadgets Discussed Awesome Things of the Week Mama's Night Off and the Maeve Chocolate Dirty Shirley Bar Katie shares a browser-based game connected to Dungeon Crawler Carl. Players fire magical projectiles at cherries to help create Mama's Dirty Shirley. The hosts discuss the game's intentionally retro presentation and voice work by Jeff Hays. Play the game and view the chocolate bar: https://maevechocolate.com/products/virgin-dirty-shirley/?game Garmin's Screenless Fitness Tracker Dave introduces Garmin's wearable fitness tracker designed without a screen. The device offers health and activity tracking without requiring users to wear a full smartwatch. The hosts discuss its approximately ten-day battery life, Garmin Connect compatibility, optional Garmin Connect+ subscription, and Garmin's reputation for durable hardware and direct fitness feedback. Engadget: https://www.engadget.com/2219713/garmin-finally-made-a-screenless-fitness-tracker/ Garmin product information: https://www.garmin.com/en-US/p/1989182/#specs RetroArch on Apple TV Sorg explains how RetroArch can turn an Apple TV into a multi-system retro-gaming device. The software supports numerous systems, including Nintendo, Sega, arcade, PlayStation-era platforms, and older computer games. The hosts discuss Bluetooth controllers, open-source games, shareware versions of Doom and Wolfenstein, storage limitations, organizing ROM libraries, and troubleshooting incompatible files. Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/retroarch/id6499539433 Supported platforms: https://www.retroarch.com/?page=platforms Awesome Person of the Week Ralph Teetor and the Invention of Cruise Control Dave highlights engineer Ralph Teetor, who became blind as a child and later earned engineering degrees. Frustrated by the repeated acceleration and deceleration of drivers, Teetor developed an early version of cruise control. The hosts discuss the evolution from basic speed control to adaptive cruise control and its relationship to modern driver-assistance systems. Teetor later served as president of the Society of Automotive Engineers, and an SAE award for educators bears his name. Automotive Hall of Fame: https://automotivehalloffame.org/honoree/ralph-r-teetor/ Chachi Says Video Game Minute Playing GTA III and Vice City Inside GTA: San Andreas A PC mod allows players controlling CJ in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas to walk up to an in-game television and launch GTA III or Vice City. The hosts compare the concept to a video-game version of Inception. https://www.tomshardware.com/video-games/pc-gaming/gta-3-and-vice-city-are-now-playable-inside-san-andreas-a-mod-lets-you-revisit-liberty-city-and-vice-city-without-leaving-san-andreas GameStop's CEO Responds to the Decline of Physical Games GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen argues that Sony reducing physical-disc support will not significantly hurt the company because new video-game sales represent a relatively small portion of its business. The discussion includes GameStop's continued interest in eBay and the changing economics of physical game retail. https://www.ign.com/articles/gamestop-ceo-ryan-cohen-insists-sony-killing-physical-discs-doesnt-matter-at-all-because-video-game-sales-make-up-so-little-of-his-business PlayStation 5 Emulation Progress Developers are making progress booting PlayStation 5 titles through multiple emulation projects. Two-dimensional games are advancing more quickly, while fully rendering complex three-dimensional games remains a significant challenge. The story sparks a broader conversation about game preservation, physical ownership, digital licensing, and consumer distrust. https://www.tomshardware.com/video-games/playstation/ps5-emulation-ramps-up-in-wake-of-sonys-end-to-physical-media-ps5-titles-now-booting-across-different-emulators-with-rapid-community-development-for-both-2d-and-3d-games AI, Creative Work and Data Centers The hosts discuss the growing use of AI-assisted tools in image editing, video production, business documents, email, captions, background extension, and design mockups. Sorg explains how AI can help reformat posters for different social-media dimensions without replacing the original creative work. The discussion distinguishes generative AI from other machine-learning tools, such as automated transcription, rotoscoping, search, and image organization. Dave raises concerns about social-media challenges potentially being used to gather free voice-training data. The group discusses how Google, Adobe, Canva, and other platforms increasingly build AI functions directly into existing software. The hosts argue that professionals cannot simply ignore the technology, but they should evaluate where it is appropriate and disclose its use when needed. The discussion also addresses the electrical demands of new data centers, corporate incentives, local government decisions, environmental protections, grid capacity, and the disproportionate placement of industrial infrastructure near lower-income communities. Their central argument is that rapid technological growth must be accompanied by accountability, regulation, public representation, and responsible development. NASA Psyche Mars Flyby NASA's Psyche spacecraft used a Mars flyby as a gravitational assist while traveling deeper into the solar system. The mission captured detailed images and a time-lapse view of Mars during the maneuver. Dave highlights the value of scientific exploration driven by curiosity and the desire to understand more about the universe. https://science.nasa.gov/blogs/psyche/2026/07/17/nasas-psyche-mission-delivers-mars-flyby-data-time-lapse-video/ Pittsburgh Bridges on Film and Pastfinders Sorg highlights a collaboration between Pastfinders and the Pittsburgh Film Office focused on Pittsburgh bridges featured in movies and television. Examples discussed include locations connected to Mayor of Kingstown, Sweet Girl, Jack Reacher, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, The Dark Knight Rises, Dogma, The Silence of the Lambs, and Mindhunter. The hosts discuss how the Pastfinders app sends location-based notifications about historical sites, movie locations, landmarks, and unusual local stories. Pastfinders: https://www.pastfinders.app/ Pittsburgh Film Office bridge-tour post: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1458603939638716&set=pcb.1458603999638710 The Light Flip Minimalist Phone The hosts examine a modern minimalist flip phone inspired by classic designs. It uses physical buttons, T9-style typing, a small screen, and a dedicated operating system rather than standard Android. The group discusses the appeal for people who want calls, messages, navigation, and limited apps without carrying a high-powered smartphone. They also consider whether younger users might adopt simpler phones to reduce social-media use and screen time. https://9to5google.com/2026/07/21/light-flip-minimalist-phone-announcement/ OpenMote: Repurposing the Nintendo Wii Remote Sorg introduces OpenMote, a drop-in development board that turns a Nintendo Wii Remote into a customizable controller. Demonstrations include pointing the remote at lamps to control them. The hosts brainstorm uses for smart-home controls, games, production equipment, lighting effects, custom 3D-printed controllers, and event technology. OpenMote: https://openmote.io/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio Instagram demonstration: https://www.instagram.com/reels/Da8p5B7PNKP/ OpenMote Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openmote.io/ Google Photos Restores Classic Search Google Photos is adding an option that lets users choose between the newer Gemini-powered Ask Photos experience and a more traditional search interface. The hosts discuss why some users prefer entering straightforward terms rather than asking an AI-generated question. The change becomes an example of why providing a choice can reduce frustration when companies add AI to familiar products. https://9to5google.com/2026/07/20/google-photos-classic-search-toggle/ Also Discussed The return of CDs, vinyl records, cassettes, retro games, and physical media. The difference between owning digital media and licensing access to it. Consumer distrust of large technology companies. The space required to store large physical-media collections. Using Gemini to interpret business acronyms and generate a first draft of a statement of work. Severe-weather alerts and Katie briefly leaving the podcast during a tornado warning. Dave's upcoming races, including the Two-Face Race and Trick or Trot 5K. The next AwesomeCast interview with Spotter Global and its technology for detecting drones and identifying operators. Support the show at: https://www.patreon.com/awesomecast Discover more from the Sorgatron Media Podcast Network: https://sorgatronmedia.com

Orit Halpern on Knowledge, Data and Democracy Shownotes Orit Halpern Prof. Dr. Orit Halpern at TU Dresden: https://tu-dresden.de/gsw/slk/germanistik/digitalcultures/die-professur/inhaber-in Orit Halpern's website: https://orithalpern.net/ Halpern, O. (2015). Beautiful data: A history of vision and reason since 1945. Duke University Press. https://www.dukeupress.edu/beautiful-data Halpern, O., & Mitchell, R. (2023). The smartness mandate. MIT Press. https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262544511/the-smartness-mandate/  Hayek, F. A. (2013). The use of knowledge in society. In Modern understandings of liberty and property (pp. 27-38). Routledge. https://home.uchicago.edu/~vlima/courses/econ200/spring01/hayek.pdf  Bush, V. (1945). As we may think. The atlantic monthly, 176(1), 101-108. https://www.ias.ac.in/article/fulltext/reso/005/11/0094-0103  on CERN: https://home.cern/about/who-we-are/ on the Event Horizon Telescope: https://eventhorizontelescope.org/ on the IPCC: https://www.ipcc.ch/ on critiques of the Enlightenment: https://polsci.institute/modern-political-philosophy/critiques-enlightenment-modernity/ Horkheimer, M., Adorno, T. W., & Noeri, G. (2002). Dialectic of enlightenment. Stanford University Press. https://www.sup.org/books/theory-and-philosophy/dialectic-enlightenment  on Keynesianism: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keynesianismus on MAGA: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Make_America_Great_Again  on the Frankfurt School: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Frankfurt-School on high modernism: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High_modernism on totalitarianism according to Hannah Arendt: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Origins_of_Totalitarianism Friedrich Hayek: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Friedrich_August_von_Hayek  on strict constitutionalism/constructionism: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strict_constructionism on the Electoral College: https://www.archives.gov/electoral-college/about on Stafford Beer: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stafford_Beer https://www.kybernetik.ch/en/fs_beer.html  on post-sovereign planning: Mohammed, S. Z. (2025). Post-sovereign planning? Nature, culture and care in the new socialist calculation debate. In Creative Construction (pp. 265-278). Bristol University Press. https://bristoluniversitypressdigital.com/edcollchap/book/9781529235142/ch014.xml Latour, B. (2012). We have never been modern. Harvard university press. https://www.hup.harvard.edu/books/9780674948396  on the cultural revolution: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cultural_Revolution on the Belt and Road initiative: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belt_and_Road_Initiative on Mao Zedong: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mao_Zedong on Planetary Experiments: https://orithalpern.net/planetaryexperiments Halpern, O. (2019). The Planetary Test. Zeitschrift für Medien and Kulturforschung, Vol 10. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5e2c7ee53de3f756cfd6cbbc/t/65a808813c02ca697d90089a/1705511045522/planetarytestarticleZMK.pdf Halpern, O. (2020). Planetary intelligence. In The cultural life of machine learning: An incursion into critical AI studies (pp. 227-256). Cham: Springer International Publishing. https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-56286-1_8 on Large Language Models (LLMs): https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Large_Language_Model  on Victor Papanek: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victor_Papanek Groos, J., & Sorg, C. (Eds.). (2025). Creative construction: Democratic planning in the 21st century and beyond. Bristol University Press. https://bristoluniversitypress.co.uk/creative-construction  on Terraforming: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terraforming on Geoengineering: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geoengineering on NVIDIA Earth 2: https://www.nvidia.com/en-us/high-performance-com on Destination Earth: https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/Destination_Earth on Piketty's inequality equation r > g: https://equitablegrowth.org/pareto-distribution-r-g/ Piketty, T. (2014). Capital in the twenty-first century. Harvard University Press. https://www.hup.harvard.edu/books/9780674430006  the mentioned quote on the ‘weak cyborg dream' in Orit Halpern (2019, p. 22):  https://publish.fid-media.de/server/api/core/bitstreams/73aba255-56d2-4595-83b5-bfdad3740ffb/content Against Catastrophes: https://againstcatastrophe.net/ Orit Halpern on resilience: Halpern, O. (2025). The geo-politics of resilience: On the historical convergence between ecology, artificial intelligence, and corporate strategy. new media & society, 27(8), 4581-4605. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/14614448251336420  on Ground Truth: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ground_Truth  on benchmark data: https://brilliantfuture.se/en/glossaries/benchmark-data Related Episodes of Future Histories S03E34 | Cecilia Rikap on Intellectual Monopoly Capitalism and Corporate Power in the Age of AI https://www.futurehistories.today/episoden-blog/s03/e34-cecilia-rikap-on-intellectual-monopoly-capitalism-and-corporate-power-in-the-age-of-ai/ S02E44 | Evgeny Morozov on Discovery Beyond Competition https://www.futurehistories.today/episoden-blog/s02/e44-evgeny-morozov-on-discovery-beyond-competition/ S02E43 | Samia Mohammed zur Zukunft jenseits des Marktes https://www.futurehistories.today/episoden-blog/s02/e43-samia-mohammed-zur-zukunft-jenseits-des-marktes/ — Future Histories Contact & Support If you like Future Histories, please consider supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/FutureHistories Contact: office@futurehistories.today  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/futurehpodcast/ Mastodon: https://mstdn.social/@FutureHistories English webpage: https://futurehistories-international.com Episode Keywords #OritHalpern #JanGroos, #Interview, #TUDresden, #FutureHistoriesInternational, #FutureHistories, #Knowledge, #Data, #Democracy, #Technology, #Society, #ArtificialIntelligence, #AI, #Data, #Capitalism, #Neoliberalism, #PlanetaryExperiments, #PostSovereignPlanning, #DemocraticPlanning, #Alternatives

Bite into General Tso's Bok Choy with Arley Sorg as we discuss the difficulty in getting the help you need as a beginning writer when you don't know what you don't know, the serendipity that got him a job at Locus, how to inhabit the community that is while envisioning the community that could be, why an agent might prefer in-person pitches over email, the importance of doing things without an agenda, the way we learned to deal with both rejecting and being rejected, how to make sense of the myths and rumors of science fiction publishing, why he feels comfortable in his role as an agent, plus much more.

Vi pratar om sorg i Karlavagnen och delar med oss av våra erfarenheter om hur man tar sig ur den på bästa sätt. Vid micken finns Sofia Rågenklint. Lyssna på alla avsnitt i Sveriges Radios app. Någon man älskar kan ha dött, eller någon man aldrig riktigt fick den där relationen med som man hade önskat. En skilsmässa. En vänskap som runnit ut i sanden. Ofrivillig barnlöshet eller sjukdom. Varje sorg är ju unik och vi sörjer på olika sätt. Många vill prata om hur man mår medan andra blir tysta. Ibland håller vi tillbaka våra känslor av rädsla för att belasta nån annan. Så hur tar vi oss ur sorgen på bästa sätt? Vad är din erfarenhet och dina goda råd? Sofia Rågenklint finns här för att lyssna på dig men även för att berätta om sina egna erfarenheter om att ta sig ur en sorg.Ring oss, mejla på karlavagnen@sverigesradio.se eller skriv till oss på Facebook och Instagram. Slussen öppnar kl 21:00 och programmet börjar 21.40

Russiske mødre sørger over sønner, de har mistet på slagmarken, ved at betale AI-firmaer for at genskabe dem digitalt. Sorg er blevet en forretning, som sorgrobotter er trådt ind på markedet. K-Live undersøger tendensen og spørger, hvordan kunstig intelligens genforhandler døden. Medvirkende: Nicolei Faber, instruktør og iscenesætter af Odysséen på Aarhus Teater Laura Skov Illum, psykolog og ph.d.-stipendiat ved Aarhus Universitet Jacob Shaw, cellist og leder af Scandinavian Cello School Vært: Klara Witt Producer: Anna Correll Redaktør: Lasse Lauridsen

AwesomeCast 787 gets practical, futuristic and increasingly strange as Sorg, Katie Dudas and Dave Podnar explore family-safe phones, connected health gadgets, USB-C mysteries, robotic limbs, Instagram's latest AI privacy controversy and Fortnite's revealing new take on the DC Universe. Sorg also begins downloading the iOS 27 public beta during the show, despite Katie's warnings and a few concerns being saved for the Patreon aftertalk. Stories and Gadgets Discussed A wireless microphone saves the podcast: When Dave's regular microphone setup breaks, he switches to a compact dual wireless microphone system that connects through USB-C. The plug-and-play backup works with phones and laptops without a complicated setup. Omron 7 Series Bluetooth blood pressure monitor: Dave reviews a new connected blood pressure monitor after getting inconsistent readings from an older device. He highlights its larger arm cuff, support for two users, storage for multiple readings, three-reading averages, Apple Health integration and the ability to export results for a doctor. https://amzn.to/4yncwxY Pinwheel phones, watches and home phones for kids: Katie introduces Pinwheel's managed technology ecosystem for children and teenagers. Parents and caregivers can control approved contacts, monitor texts, restrict social media, set bedtime schedules, review locations and gradually unlock features as a child gets older. The company also offers a standalone smartwatch and a Wi-Fi-powered corded home phone that brings back the satisfaction of dramatically hanging up. https://www.pinwheel.com Kennywood's reopening and the mystery bag gamble: Sorg recounts a delayed visit to Kennywood after a water-main break interrupted opening day. His $5 mystery merchandise bag produced a Kennywood gaiter, a vintage postcard and a Jack Rabbit 100th-anniversary pin. Awesome Person of the Week — Rory Cooper: For Disability Pride Month, Dave profiles inventor, engineer and Paralympic medalist Rory Cooper. After becoming paralyzed while serving in the military, Cooper designed a lighter wheelchair and built a career improving mobility technology. His Pittsburgh work includes the Human Engineering Research Laboratories, a collaboration involving the University of Pittsburgh and the Department of Veterans Affairs. https://www.invent.org/inductees/rory-cooper WhatCable diagnoses confusing USB-C connections: Sorg tests a free Mac utility that reveals what connected USB-C cables, chargers, docks and ports can actually do. The app displays negotiated speeds, charging details, supported USB standards and potential bottlenecks—useful for anyone wondering why a drive, monitor or video device is underperforming. https://www.whatcable.uk/ LEGO's Fast & Furious Toyota Supra MK4: Katie finds a new LEGO Speed Champions version of Brian O'Conner's Toyota Supra from The Fast and the Furious. The set includes the bright orange movie car and a Brian O'Conner minifigure in his signature T-shirt and jeans. https://www.lego.com/en-us/product/the-fast-and-the-furious-toyota-supra-mk4-77260 Speed and racing technology at the Carnegie Science Center: The hosts preview an upcoming speed-focused exhibit featuring an interactive track and specialized vehicles connected to the Petersen Automotive Museum. https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1PZqTmHP4J/?mibextid=wwXIfr Using AI to teach respectful sports camera work: The team examines guidelines designed to prevent women athletes from being sexualized through revealing angles and unnecessary slow-motion replays. Sorg discusses turning the concept into an AI-generated pro wrestling camera guide that can help videographers recognize respectful framing, understand consent and avoid exploitative shots. https://www.reddit.com/r/interestingasfuck/comments/1uwaxzx/some_of_the_new_guidelines_that_have_been/ Instagram reverses its public-profile AI remix feature: Dave explains the backlash surrounding a Meta AI feature that could use images from public Instagram profiles in AI creations without first requiring users to opt in. The hosts discuss predictable abuse, privacy risks and why technology companies need more diverse voices involved before launching features like this. Meta subsequently disabled the feature. https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2026/07/13/meta-disables-ai-feature-instagram-backlash/90899917007/ Jizai Arms bring Doctor Octopus technology closer to reality: A Japanese research project demonstrates wearable robotic arms that can be attached, removed and exchanged between users. The hosts debate whether the project represents meaningful cyborg research, performance art or technology created without enough consideration for how the public will interpret it. https://jizai-arms.com/ Additional commentary: https://www.instagram.com/refashionedhippie/ Fortnite launches “Hot Bat Summer”: Batman, Harley Quinn, Catwoman and Poison Ivy receive beach-ready DC skins in Fortnite. The discussion naturally turns toward the absurdity of a game where swimsuit Batman can share a battlefield with Bugs Bunny, Homer Simpson and an armed dog in a bee costume. https://www.polygon.com/fortnite-hot-bat-summer-skins-dc-batman-harley-quinn-catwoman-poison-ivy/ A shirtless protester attacks a Waymo vehicle: Video of a man climbing onto and damaging a Waymo in East Hollywood launches a wider conversation about autonomous vehicles, public surveillance, camera networks and the lack of privacy in modern public spaces. The hosts also discuss how easily hacked or deleted accounts can remove years of digital purchases. https://kotaku.com/shirtless-man-starts-butlerian-jihad-against-waymo-in-east-hollywood-2000715911 Support AwesomeCast and receive the Patreon aftertalk at: https://www.patreon.com/awesomecast AwesomeCast is part of the Sorgatron Media Podcast Network: https://www.sorgatronmedia.com Production services provided by Sidekick Media Services: https://www.sidekickmediaservices.com Supporting Pittsburgh podcasting with the perfect pepperoni pizza: https://www.sliceonbroadway.com

Pro wrestler and Banana Ball cast member Shane “The Smoke Show” Savage joins Sorg and The Riz for a conversation about the surprising connection between body slams, baseball stadiums and fan-first entertainment. Also known to wrestling fans as The Savage Gentleman Victor Benjamin, Shane is now Mr. November and a member of the Calendar Crew for the Banana Ball Firefighters. He explains what a Banana Ball cast member does, how the experience compares to professional wrestling and why performers with wrestling backgrounds are uniquely prepared to entertain tens of thousands of fans in packed stadiums. Shane shares the full-circle story of attending Banana Ball at PNC Park, immediately realizing that he belonged in that world and eventually receiving the opportunity to join the organization. He discusses performing in football stadiums, meeting fans throughout every level of the venue and experiencing Iowa's emotional stadium wave to children watching from a nearby hospital. The conversation also explores Banana Ball's fans-first philosophy. Shane explains how small gestures, personal interactions and taking time to acknowledge supporters can create moments that last a lifetime. He reflects on faith, gratitude, career changes and learning to appreciate opportunities instead of immediately rushing toward the next destination. Back in the wrestling world, Shane recounts being unexpectedly booked against Matt Riddle for Northeast Wrestling. The dream match brought his MMA and professional wrestling experiences together while reconnecting him with someone who helped influence the development of The Savage Gentleman character during an earlier EVOLVE seminar. The weekend became even more surreal when wrestling legends Ron Simmons, Lex Luger, Jerry Lawler and Jimmy Hart began asking Shane about Banana Ball. Shane discusses the validation of seeing performers he admired recognize that his Banana Ball contract represents a major accomplishment—even without the traditional wrestling television contract he once pursued. Sorg and The Riz also discuss the latest wrestling stories, including Lyra Valkyria's character transformation, Danhausen's Madison Square Garden opportunity, WWE's upcoming card, the possibility of Nick Aldis returning to the ring and several standout matches from Enjoy Wrestling. Other topics include Nick Gage's Pittsburgh appearance, Sonny Kiss moving to Pittsburgh, the chaotic Captain's Fall match, Dani Mo versus Hazuki, Violence Is Forever battling The Fourth Line and why wrestling promotions must make their characters and stories understandable to brand-new fans. News Stories and Topics Discussed Lyra Valkyria's character reset: The panel examines Lyra's disheveled presentation and more emotionally unstable direction. They believe she has always possessed the wrestling ability but needed a character that felt uniquely hers. Learning from Bayley: The group discusses how working with an experienced performer such as Bayley could help Lyra develop the personality and presentation needed to reach another level. The problem with crowded wrestling promos: Sorg critiques multi-person in-ring promos where performers stand in positions that block the audience and television cameras. Danhausen at Madison Square Garden: The crew previews Danhausen's match and speculates about possible celebrity appearances, New York personalities and outside involvement in the no-disqualification environment. Cody Rhodes and CM Punk attempting to coexist: The upcoming tag-team match against Gunther and Sami Zayn inspires a discussion about wrestling's traditional “can they coexist?” storyline. Nick Aldis versus Gunther: The panel believes WWE is slowly building toward Aldis removing the suit and returning to the ring for a major confrontation with Gunther. Nick Aldis as an authority figure: Shane and Sorg praise Aldis for bringing credibility, composure and a believable sense of authority to his role. Chad Gable and Penta: The panel discusses the continuing masked-character storyline and the hometown reaction Gable could receive. Women's Tag Team Championship: Fatal Influence's match against Paige and Brie is discussed as a possible opportunity to finally establish the faction as a significant threat. Beastman's Big Ass Birthday Bash: The show previews the unpredictable VCW event, including Beastman versus Toby Klein in a fans-bring-the-weapons birthday brawl. A mime at a deathmatch birthday party: The presence of Jean-Paul the Miserable leads to speculation about whether Shane would wrestle a mime. Congo Kong versus Jamie Jameson: The panel anticipates another violent and unpredictable championship encounter. Banana Ball explained: Shane describes Banana Ball as real baseball surrounded by nonstop entertainment, comparing its basic concept to the Harlem Globetrotters while emphasizing that it has grown into something much larger. The Banana Ball Firefighters: Shane explains that he is not a baseball player. As Mr. November, he is a cast member and part of the Calendar Crew responsible for energizing fans throughout the stadium. Why Banana Ball hires wrestlers: Wrestlers understand improvisation, crowd interaction, character work, physical entertainment and how to remain composed when plans change. Shane's PNC Park revelation: After attending Banana Ball in Pittsburgh, Shane realized the presentation combined everything he loved about athletics, wrestling and entertainment. Fans-first ticketing: The discussion examines Banana Ball's efforts to maintain affordable ticket prices and help fans exchange tickets without relying on inflated resale markets. Taking entertainment to every seat: Shane describes visiting suites, press areas and upper decks so fans far from the field receive the same attention as those near the action. The Iowa wave: One of Shane's most meaningful experiences involved a stadium acknowledging children watching from a nearby hospital. Learning to reflect: Banana Ball's travel structure has given Shane more opportunities to process his experiences, practice gratitude and appreciate what is happening in the present. Small gestures matter: Following a young fan, taking a photograph or stopping for a conversation may cost a performer nothing but can mean everything to the supporter. Wrestling Matt Riddle: Shane discusses accepting a last-minute Northeast Wrestling booking and finally having a dream match against another performer with an MMA background. The EVOLVE connection: Matt Riddle previously helped Shane during a seminar that contributed to the development of his Savage Gentleman presentation. Praise from wrestling legends: Ron Simmons, Lex Luger, Jerry Lawler and Jimmy Hart became interested in Shane's Banana Ball career, creating one of his most surreal wrestling weekends. Redefining success: Shane admits he once struggled with never receiving a traditional televised wrestling contract, but Banana Ball has provided a different kind of national sports-entertainment opportunity. Faith and career direction: Shane explains how stepping away from another fight created space for the Banana Ball opportunity to arrive. Wrestling prepares performers for everything: From taking a microphone in front of thousands of people to responding to unpredictable situations, wrestling has prepared Shane for his new position. Nick Gage at Enjoy Wrestling: Sorg and The Riz recap the expected pizza cutter, tables, weapons and audience interaction from Gage's Pittsburgh appearance. A different side of Nick Gage: Shane remembers sharing a car ride with Gage and receiving thoughtful wrestling and life advice. Sonny Kiss moving to Pittsburgh: The group reacts to the announcement that Sonny Kiss is relocating to pursue a doctorate at the University of Pittsburgh. Dani Mo versus Hazuki: The match receives enthusiastic praise as one of the strongest performances on the Enjoy Wrestling show. The Captain's Fall match: The crew explains the elimination-style contest in which the match cannot end until one team's designated captain is defeated. The Fourth Line versus Violence Is Forever: The hard-hitting tag-team encounter is recommended for anyone who appreciates physical independent wrestling. Pittsburgh wrestling connections: The discussion celebrates how Pittsburgh wrestlers, producers and personalities continue appearing throughout WWE, AEW, independent wrestling and Banana Ball. Creating understandable characters: Shane argues that audiences connect with clear characters and stories. A fan seeing someone for the first time should immediately understand who that performer is. Lifting the next generation: The group reflects on Wrestle Pit's attempt to remove gatekeeping and provide opportunities to talented Pittsburgh wrestlers. “What We Learned” Breakdown Shane “The Smoke Show” Savage Shane learned—or more accurately watched the rest of the world discover—that Danhausen is a legitimate star. Having previously worked with and booked Danhausen, Shane already understood his ability to attract attention and connect with fans. Seeing Danhausen featured prominently at Madison Square Garden reinforced how far he has come. The Riz The Riz noticed WWE leaning heavily into WrestleMania IX imagery with CM Punk's black eye and championship presentation. The comparison to Hulk Hogan and Bret Hart led back to one of the show's recurring theories: wrestling stories can be recycled after approximately seven years because they feel new to another generation of viewers. Sorg Sorg learned that one of the most entertaining “Pure Wrestling” matches he has seen was Mansoor versus Daddy Magic in Ring of Honor. The wrestlers appeared confused by—or intentionally resistant to—the Pure rules. They avoided the traditional handshake, quickly exhausted rope breaks and found ridiculous ways to incorporate a chair without technically using it as a weapon. The match demonstrated that the Pure Wrestling format can support comedy and experimentation without completely abandoning its established rules. Additional Match Recommendation The Riz connected the Mansoor and Daddy Magic match to the absurd World of Sport Entertainment rounds matches presented by Mystery Wrestling. The comparison highlighted how complicated stipulations, rule manipulation and comedy can turn a familiar wrestling structure into something unexpected.

Pro wrestler and Banana Ball cast member Shane “The Smoke Show” Savage joins Sorg and The Riz for a conversation about the surprising connection between body slams, baseball stadiums and fan-first entertainment. Also known to wrestling fans as The Savage Gentleman Victor Benjamin, Shane is now Mr. November and a member of the Calendar Crew for the Banana Ball Firefighters. He explains what a Banana Ball cast member does, how the experience compares to professional wrestling and why performers with wrestling backgrounds are uniquely prepared to entertain tens of thousands of fans in packed stadiums. Shane shares the full-circle story of attending Banana Ball at PNC Park, immediately realizing that he belonged in that world and eventually receiving the opportunity to join the organization. He discusses performing in football stadiums, meeting fans throughout every level of the venue and experiencing Iowa's emotional stadium wave to children watching from a nearby hospital. The conversation also explores Banana Ball's fans-first philosophy. Shane explains how small gestures, personal interactions and taking time to acknowledge supporters can create moments that last a lifetime. He reflects on faith, gratitude, career changes and learning to appreciate opportunities instead of immediately rushing toward the next destination. Back in the wrestling world, Shane recounts being unexpectedly booked against Matt Riddle for Northeast Wrestling. The dream match brought his MMA and professional wrestling experiences together while reconnecting him with someone who helped influence the development of The Savage Gentleman character during an earlier EVOLVE seminar. The weekend became even more surreal when wrestling legends Ron Simmons, Lex Luger, Jerry Lawler and Jimmy Hart began asking Shane about Banana Ball. Shane discusses the validation of seeing performers he admired recognize that his Banana Ball contract represents a major accomplishment—even without the traditional wrestling television contract he once pursued. Sorg and The Riz also discuss the latest wrestling stories, including Lyra Valkyria's character transformation, Danhausen's Madison Square Garden opportunity, WWE's upcoming card, the possibility of Nick Aldis returning to the ring and several standout matches from Enjoy Wrestling. Other topics include Nick Gage's Pittsburgh appearance, Sonny Kiss moving to Pittsburgh, the chaotic Captain's Fall match, Dani Mo versus Hazuki, Violence Is Forever battling The Fourth Line and why wrestling promotions must make their characters and stories understandable to brand-new fans. News Stories and Topics Discussed Lyra Valkyria's character reset: The panel examines Lyra's disheveled presentation and more emotionally unstable direction. They believe she has always possessed the wrestling ability but needed a character that felt uniquely hers. Learning from Bayley: The group discusses how working with an experienced performer such as Bayley could help Lyra develop the personality and presentation needed to reach another level. The problem with crowded wrestling promos: Sorg critiques multi-person in-ring promos where performers stand in positions that block the audience and television cameras. Danhausen at Madison Square Garden: The crew previews Danhausen's match and speculates about possible celebrity appearances, New York personalities and outside involvement in the no-disqualification environment. Cody Rhodes and CM Punk attempting to coexist: The upcoming tag-team match against Gunther and Sami Zayn inspires a discussion about wrestling's traditional “can they coexist?” storyline. Nick Aldis versus Gunther: The panel believes WWE is slowly building toward Aldis removing the suit and returning to the ring for a major confrontation with Gunther. Nick Aldis as an authority figure: Shane and Sorg praise Aldis for bringing credibility, composure and a believable sense of authority to his role. Chad Gable and Penta: The panel discusses the continuing masked-character storyline and the hometown reaction Gable could receive. Women's Tag Team Championship: Fatal Influence's match against Paige and Brie is discussed as a possible opportunity to finally establish the faction as a significant threat. Beastman's Big Ass Birthday Bash: The show previews the unpredictable VCW event, including Beastman versus Toby Klein in a fans-bring-the-weapons birthday brawl. A mime at a deathmatch birthday party: The presence of Jean-Paul the Miserable leads to speculation about whether Shane would wrestle a mime. Congo Kong versus Jamie Jameson: The panel anticipates another violent and unpredictable championship encounter. Banana Ball explained: Shane describes Banana Ball as real baseball surrounded by nonstop entertainment, comparing its basic concept to the Harlem Globetrotters while emphasizing that it has grown into something much larger. The Banana Ball Firefighters: Shane explains that he is not a baseball player. As Mr. November, he is a cast member and part of the Calendar Crew responsible for energizing fans throughout the stadium. Why Banana Ball hires wrestlers: Wrestlers understand improvisation, crowd interaction, character work, physical entertainment and how to remain composed when plans change. Shane's PNC Park revelation: After attending Banana Ball in Pittsburgh, Shane realized the presentation combined everything he loved about athletics, wrestling and entertainment. Fans-first ticketing: The discussion examines Banana Ball's efforts to maintain affordable ticket prices and help fans exchange tickets without relying on inflated resale markets. Taking entertainment to every seat: Shane describes visiting suites, press areas and upper decks so fans far from the field receive the same attention as those near the action. The Iowa wave: One of Shane's most meaningful experiences involved a stadium acknowledging children watching from a nearby hospital. Learning to reflect: Banana Ball's travel structure has given Shane more opportunities to process his experiences, practice gratitude and appreciate what is happening in the present. Small gestures matter: Following a young fan, taking a photograph or stopping for a conversation may cost a performer nothing but can mean everything to the supporter. Wrestling Matt Riddle: Shane discusses accepting a last-minute Northeast Wrestling booking and finally having a dream match against another performer with an MMA background. The EVOLVE connection: Matt Riddle previously helped Shane during a seminar that contributed to the development of his Savage Gentleman presentation. Praise from wrestling legends: Ron Simmons, Lex Luger, Jerry Lawler and Jimmy Hart became interested in Shane's Banana Ball career, creating one of his most surreal wrestling weekends. Redefining success: Shane admits he once struggled with never receiving a traditional televised wrestling contract, but Banana Ball has provided a different kind of national sports-entertainment opportunity. Faith and career direction: Shane explains how stepping away from another fight created space for the Banana Ball opportunity to arrive. Wrestling prepares performers for everything: From taking a microphone in front of thousands of people to responding to unpredictable situations, wrestling has prepared Shane for his new position. Nick Gage at Enjoy Wrestling: Sorg and The Riz recap the expected pizza cutter, tables, weapons and audience interaction from Gage's Pittsburgh appearance. A different side of Nick Gage: Shane remembers sharing a car ride with Gage and receiving thoughtful wrestling and life advice. Sonny Kiss moving to Pittsburgh: The group reacts to the announcement that Sonny Kiss is relocating to pursue a doctorate at the University of Pittsburgh. Dani Mo versus Hazuki: The match receives enthusiastic praise as one of the strongest performances on the Enjoy Wrestling show. The Captain's Fall match: The crew explains the elimination-style contest in which the match cannot end until one team's designated captain is defeated. The Fourth Line versus Violence Is Forever: The hard-hitting tag-team encounter is recommended for anyone who appreciates physical independent wrestling. Pittsburgh wrestling connections: The discussion celebrates how Pittsburgh wrestlers, producers and personalities continue appearing throughout WWE, AEW, independent wrestling and Banana Ball. Creating understandable characters: Shane argues that audiences connect with clear characters and stories. A fan seeing someone for the first time should immediately understand who that performer is. Lifting the next generation: The group reflects on Wrestle Pit's attempt to remove gatekeeping and provide opportunities to talented Pittsburgh wrestlers. “What We Learned” Breakdown Shane “The Smoke Show” Savage Shane learned—or more accurately watched the rest of the world discover—that Danhausen is a legitimate star. Having previously worked with and booked Danhausen, Shane already understood his ability to attract attention and connect with fans. Seeing Danhausen featured prominently at Madison Square Garden reinforced how far he has come. The Riz The Riz noticed WWE leaning heavily into WrestleMania IX imagery with CM Punk's black eye and championship presentation. The comparison to Hulk Hogan and Bret Hart led back to one of the show's recurring theories: wrestling stories can be recycled after approximately seven years because they feel new to another generation of viewers. Sorg Sorg learned that one of the most entertaining “Pure Wrestling” matches he has seen was Mansoor versus Daddy Magic in Ring of Honor. The wrestlers appeared confused by—or intentionally resistant to—the Pure rules. They avoided the traditional handshake, quickly exhausted rope breaks and found ridiculous ways to incorporate a chair without technically using it as a weapon. The match demonstrated that the Pure Wrestling format can support comedy and experimentation without completely abandoning its established rules. Additional Match Recommendation The Riz connected the Mansoor and Daddy Magic match to the absurd World of Sport Entertainment rounds matches presented by Mystery Wrestling. The comparison highlighted how complicated stipulations, rule manipulation and comedy can turn a familiar wrestling structure into something unexpected.

AwesomeCast 787 gets practical, futuristic and increasingly strange as Sorg, Katie Dudas and Dave Podnar explore family-safe phones, connected health gadgets, USB-C mysteries, robotic limbs, Instagram's latest AI privacy controversy and Fortnite's revealing new take on the DC Universe. Sorg also begins downloading the iOS 27 public beta during the show, despite Katie's warnings and a few concerns being saved for the Patreon aftertalk. Stories and Gadgets Discussed A wireless microphone saves the podcast: When Dave's regular microphone setup breaks, he switches to a compact dual wireless microphone system that connects through USB-C. The plug-and-play backup works with phones and laptops without a complicated setup. Omron 7 Series Bluetooth blood pressure monitor: Dave reviews a new connected blood pressure monitor after getting inconsistent readings from an older device. He highlights its larger arm cuff, support for two users, storage for multiple readings, three-reading averages, Apple Health integration and the ability to export results for a doctor. https://amzn.to/4yncwxY Pinwheel phones, watches and home phones for kids: Katie introduces Pinwheel's managed technology ecosystem for children and teenagers. Parents and caregivers can control approved contacts, monitor texts, restrict social media, set bedtime schedules, review locations and gradually unlock features as a child gets older. The company also offers a standalone smartwatch and a Wi-Fi-powered corded home phone that brings back the satisfaction of dramatically hanging up. https://www.pinwheel.com Kennywood's reopening and the mystery bag gamble: Sorg recounts a delayed visit to Kennywood after a water-main break interrupted opening day. His $5 mystery merchandise bag produced a Kennywood gaiter, a vintage postcard and a Jack Rabbit 100th-anniversary pin. Awesome Person of the Week — Rory Cooper: For Disability Pride Month, Dave profiles inventor, engineer and Paralympic medalist Rory Cooper. After becoming paralyzed while serving in the military, Cooper designed a lighter wheelchair and built a career improving mobility technology. His Pittsburgh work includes the Human Engineering Research Laboratories, a collaboration involving the University of Pittsburgh and the Department of Veterans Affairs. https://www.invent.org/inductees/rory-cooper WhatCable diagnoses confusing USB-C connections: Sorg tests a free Mac utility that reveals what connected USB-C cables, chargers, docks and ports can actually do. The app displays negotiated speeds, charging details, supported USB standards and potential bottlenecks—useful for anyone wondering why a drive, monitor or video device is underperforming. https://www.whatcable.uk/ LEGO's Fast & Furious Toyota Supra MK4: Katie finds a new LEGO Speed Champions version of Brian O'Conner's Toyota Supra from The Fast and the Furious. The set includes the bright orange movie car and a Brian O'Conner minifigure in his signature T-shirt and jeans. https://www.lego.com/en-us/product/the-fast-and-the-furious-toyota-supra-mk4-77260 Speed and racing technology at the Carnegie Science Center: The hosts preview an upcoming speed-focused exhibit featuring an interactive track and specialized vehicles connected to the Petersen Automotive Museum. https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1PZqTmHP4J/?mibextid=wwXIfr Using AI to teach respectful sports camera work: The team examines guidelines designed to prevent women athletes from being sexualized through revealing angles and unnecessary slow-motion replays. Sorg discusses turning the concept into an AI-generated pro wrestling camera guide that can help videographers recognize respectful framing, understand consent and avoid exploitative shots. https://www.reddit.com/r/interestingasfuck/comments/1uwaxzx/some_of_the_new_guidelines_that_have_been/ Instagram reverses its public-profile AI remix feature: Dave explains the backlash surrounding a Meta AI feature that could use images from public Instagram profiles in AI creations without first requiring users to opt in. The hosts discuss predictable abuse, privacy risks and why technology companies need more diverse voices involved before launching features like this. Meta subsequently disabled the feature. https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2026/07/13/meta-disables-ai-feature-instagram-backlash/90899917007/ Jizai Arms bring Doctor Octopus technology closer to reality: A Japanese research project demonstrates wearable robotic arms that can be attached, removed and exchanged between users. The hosts debate whether the project represents meaningful cyborg research, performance art or technology created without enough consideration for how the public will interpret it. https://jizai-arms.com/ Additional commentary: https://www.instagram.com/refashionedhippie/ Fortnite launches “Hot Bat Summer”: Batman, Harley Quinn, Catwoman and Poison Ivy receive beach-ready DC skins in Fortnite. The discussion naturally turns toward the absurdity of a game where swimsuit Batman can share a battlefield with Bugs Bunny, Homer Simpson and an armed dog in a bee costume. https://www.polygon.com/fortnite-hot-bat-summer-skins-dc-batman-harley-quinn-catwoman-poison-ivy/ A shirtless protester attacks a Waymo vehicle: Video of a man climbing onto and damaging a Waymo in East Hollywood launches a wider conversation about autonomous vehicles, public surveillance, camera networks and the lack of privacy in modern public spaces. The hosts also discuss how easily hacked or deleted accounts can remove years of digital purchases. https://kotaku.com/shirtless-man-starts-butlerian-jihad-against-waymo-in-east-hollywood-2000715911 Support AwesomeCast and receive the Patreon aftertalk at: https://www.patreon.com/awesomecast AwesomeCast is part of the Sorgatron Media Podcast Network: https://www.sorgatronmedia.com Production services provided by Sidekick Media Services: https://www.sidekickmediaservices.com Supporting Pittsburgh podcasting with the perfect pepperoni pizza: https://www.sliceonbroadway.com

Pro wrestler and Banana Ball cast member Shane “The Smoke Show” Savage joins Sorg and The Riz for a conversation about the surprising connection between body slams, baseball stadiums and fan-first entertainment. Also known to wrestling fans as The Savage Gentleman Victor Benjamin, Shane is now Mr. November and a member of the Calendar Crew for the Banana Ball Firefighters. He explains what a Banana Ball cast member does, how the experience compares to professional wrestling and why performers with wrestling backgrounds are uniquely prepared to entertain tens of thousands of fans in packed stadiums. Shane shares the full-circle story of attending Banana Ball at PNC Park, immediately realizing that he belonged in that world and eventually receiving the opportunity to join the organization. He discusses performing in football stadiums, meeting fans throughout every level of the venue and experiencing Iowa's emotional stadium wave to children watching from a nearby hospital. The conversation also explores Banana Ball's fans-first philosophy. Shane explains how small gestures, personal interactions and taking time to acknowledge supporters can create moments that last a lifetime. He reflects on faith, gratitude, career changes and learning to appreciate opportunities instead of immediately rushing toward the next destination. Back in the wrestling world, Shane recounts being unexpectedly booked against Matt Riddle for Northeast Wrestling. The dream match brought his MMA and professional wrestling experiences together while reconnecting him with someone who helped influence the development of The Savage Gentleman character during an earlier EVOLVE seminar. The weekend became even more surreal when wrestling legends Ron Simmons, Lex Luger, Jerry Lawler and Jimmy Hart began asking Shane about Banana Ball. Shane discusses the validation of seeing performers he admired recognize that his Banana Ball contract represents a major accomplishment—even without the traditional wrestling television contract he once pursued. Sorg and The Riz also discuss the latest wrestling stories, including Lyra Valkyria's character transformation, Danhausen's Madison Square Garden opportunity, WWE's upcoming card, the possibility of Nick Aldis returning to the ring and several standout matches from Enjoy Wrestling. Other topics include Nick Gage's Pittsburgh appearance, Sonny Kiss moving to Pittsburgh, the chaotic Captain's Fall match, Dani Mo versus Hazuki, Violence Is Forever battling The Fourth Line and why wrestling promotions must make their characters and stories understandable to brand-new fans. News Stories and Topics Discussed Lyra Valkyria's character reset: The panel examines Lyra's disheveled presentation and more emotionally unstable direction. They believe she has always possessed the wrestling ability but needed a character that felt uniquely hers. Learning from Bayley: The group discusses how working with an experienced performer such as Bayley could help Lyra develop the personality and presentation needed to reach another level. The problem with crowded wrestling promos: Sorg critiques multi-person in-ring promos where performers stand in positions that block the audience and television cameras. Danhausen at Madison Square Garden: The crew previews Danhausen's match and speculates about possible celebrity appearances, New York personalities and outside involvement in the no-disqualification environment. Cody Rhodes and CM Punk attempting to coexist: The upcoming tag-team match against Gunther and Sami Zayn inspires a discussion about wrestling's traditional “can they coexist?” storyline. Nick Aldis versus Gunther: The panel believes WWE is slowly building toward Aldis removing the suit and returning to the ring for a major confrontation with Gunther. Nick Aldis as an authority figure: Shane and Sorg praise Aldis for bringing credibility, composure and a believable sense of authority to his role. Chad Gable and Penta: The panel discusses the continuing masked-character storyline and the hometown reaction Gable could receive. Women's Tag Team Championship: Fatal Influence's match against Paige and Brie is discussed as a possible opportunity to finally establish the faction as a significant threat. Beastman's Big Ass Birthday Bash: The show previews the unpredictable VCW event, including Beastman versus Toby Klein in a fans-bring-the-weapons birthday brawl. A mime at a deathmatch birthday party: The presence of Jean-Paul the Miserable leads to speculation about whether Shane would wrestle a mime. Congo Kong versus Jamie Jameson: The panel anticipates another violent and unpredictable championship encounter. Banana Ball explained: Shane describes Banana Ball as real baseball surrounded by nonstop entertainment, comparing its basic concept to the Harlem Globetrotters while emphasizing that it has grown into something much larger. The Banana Ball Firefighters: Shane explains that he is not a baseball player. As Mr. November, he is a cast member and part of the Calendar Crew responsible for energizing fans throughout the stadium. Why Banana Ball hires wrestlers: Wrestlers understand improvisation, crowd interaction, character work, physical entertainment and how to remain composed when plans change. Shane's PNC Park revelation: After attending Banana Ball in Pittsburgh, Shane realized the presentation combined everything he loved about athletics, wrestling and entertainment. Fans-first ticketing: The discussion examines Banana Ball's efforts to maintain affordable ticket prices and help fans exchange tickets without relying on inflated resale markets. Taking entertainment to every seat: Shane describes visiting suites, press areas and upper decks so fans far from the field receive the same attention as those near the action. The Iowa wave: One of Shane's most meaningful experiences involved a stadium acknowledging children watching from a nearby hospital. Learning to reflect: Banana Ball's travel structure has given Shane more opportunities to process his experiences, practice gratitude and appreciate what is happening in the present. Small gestures matter: Following a young fan, taking a photograph or stopping for a conversation may cost a performer nothing but can mean everything to the supporter. Wrestling Matt Riddle: Shane discusses accepting a last-minute Northeast Wrestling booking and finally having a dream match against another performer with an MMA background. The EVOLVE connection: Matt Riddle previously helped Shane during a seminar that contributed to the development of his Savage Gentleman presentation. Praise from wrestling legends: Ron Simmons, Lex Luger, Jerry Lawler and Jimmy Hart became interested in Shane's Banana Ball career, creating one of his most surreal wrestling weekends. Redefining success: Shane admits he once struggled with never receiving a traditional televised wrestling contract, but Banana Ball has provided a different kind of national sports-entertainment opportunity. Faith and career direction: Shane explains how stepping away from another fight created space for the Banana Ball opportunity to arrive. Wrestling prepares performers for everything: From taking a microphone in front of thousands of people to responding to unpredictable situations, wrestling has prepared Shane for his new position. Nick Gage at Enjoy Wrestling: Sorg and The Riz recap the expected pizza cutter, tables, weapons and audience interaction from Gage's Pittsburgh appearance. A different side of Nick Gage: Shane remembers sharing a car ride with Gage and receiving thoughtful wrestling and life advice. Sonny Kiss moving to Pittsburgh: The group reacts to the announcement that Sonny Kiss is relocating to pursue a doctorate at the University of Pittsburgh. Dani Mo versus Hazuki: The match receives enthusiastic praise as one of the strongest performances on the Enjoy Wrestling show. The Captain's Fall match: The crew explains the elimination-style contest in which the match cannot end until one team's designated captain is defeated. The Fourth Line versus Violence Is Forever: The hard-hitting tag-team encounter is recommended for anyone who appreciates physical independent wrestling. Pittsburgh wrestling connections: The discussion celebrates how Pittsburgh wrestlers, producers and personalities continue appearing throughout WWE, AEW, independent wrestling and Banana Ball. Creating understandable characters: Shane argues that audiences connect with clear characters and stories. A fan seeing someone for the first time should immediately understand who that performer is. Lifting the next generation: The group reflects on Wrestle Pit's attempt to remove gatekeeping and provide opportunities to talented Pittsburgh wrestlers. “What We Learned” Breakdown Shane “The Smoke Show” Savage Shane learned—or more accurately watched the rest of the world discover—that Danhausen is a legitimate star. Having previously worked with and booked Danhausen, Shane already understood his ability to attract attention and connect with fans. Seeing Danhausen featured prominently at Madison Square Garden reinforced how far he has come. The Riz The Riz noticed WWE leaning heavily into WrestleMania IX imagery with CM Punk's black eye and championship presentation. The comparison to Hulk Hogan and Bret Hart led back to one of the show's recurring theories: wrestling stories can be recycled after approximately seven years because they feel new to another generation of viewers. Sorg Sorg learned that one of the most entertaining “Pure Wrestling” matches he has seen was Mansoor versus Daddy Magic in Ring of Honor. The wrestlers appeared confused by—or intentionally resistant to—the Pure rules. They avoided the traditional handshake, quickly exhausted rope breaks and found ridiculous ways to incorporate a chair without technically using it as a weapon. The match demonstrated that the Pure Wrestling format can support comedy and experimentation without completely abandoning its established rules. Additional Match Recommendation The Riz connected the Mansoor and Daddy Magic match to the absurd World of Sport Entertainment rounds matches presented by Mystery Wrestling. The comparison highlighted how complicated stipulations, rule manipulation and comedy can turn a familiar wrestling structure into something unexpected.

This week on AwesomeCast 786, Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar talk practical gadgets, game streaming, refurbished tech, digital ownership, and the weird future of transportation. Katie brings a larger, easier-to-open pill organizer that solves real daily medication frustrations. Dave recommends Dell Refurbished for affordable business-class computers, and Sorg shares how Aeroplay brings NVIDIA GeForce Now streaming to Apple TV, with a few login caveats. The crew also highlights Herman Hollerith for Disability Pride Month, reacts to Sony's reported physical disc and digital library controversies, explores functional LEGO F1 cars, checks out Pittsburgh's upcoming Science of Speed exhibit, watches a Waymo drive through fireworks, and discovers the surprisingly adult world of Fisher-Price Little People collector sets. Get geeky. Get awesome.

On Wrestling Mayhem Show 1011, Sorg is joined by TruePrinceofPro “T-Pop!” with surprise run-ins from Mad Mike live in Chicago and Dave Podnar. Mad Mike gives his live perspective after WWE Raw in Chicago, including CM Punk's title win, the Chicago crowd, and why Sami Zayn's short championship reign still has everyone fired up. The crew debates whether Sami got screwed, whether WWE ever truly backed him as champion, and what the lack of Sami merchandise says about the company's priorities. The show also covers AEW Beach Break, Kenny Omega vs. MJF, the Casino Gauntlet, AAA's WWE/TKO era, Damian Priest entering AAA, Vikingo's injury, El Grande Americano's massive popularity in Mexico, and whether AAA should stay one hour. Plus: Sorgstock returns, Enjoy Wrestling and AIW Absolution previews, Top Rope Tabletop, 880 Wrestling, VCW, and a heartfelt “What We Learned” about wrestling fandom, real-life connection, ALS awareness, and stepping outside your comfort zone as a fan.

On Wrestling Mayhem Show 1011, Sorg is joined by TruePrinceofPro “T-Pop!” with surprise run-ins from Mad Mike live in Chicago and Dave Podnar. Mad Mike gives his live perspective after WWE Raw in Chicago, including CM Punk's title win, the Chicago crowd, and why Sami Zayn's short championship reign still has everyone fired up. The crew debates whether Sami got screwed, whether WWE ever truly backed him as champion, and what the lack of Sami merchandise says about the company's priorities. The show also covers AEW Beach Break, Kenny Omega vs. MJF, the Casino Gauntlet, AAA's WWE/TKO era, Damian Priest entering AAA, Vikingo's injury, El Grande Americano's massive popularity in Mexico, and whether AAA should stay one hour. Plus: Sorgstock returns, Enjoy Wrestling and AIW Absolution previews, Top Rope Tabletop, 880 Wrestling, VCW, and a heartfelt “What We Learned” about wrestling fandom, real-life connection, ALS awareness, and stepping outside your comfort zone as a fan.

On Wrestling Mayhem Show 1011, Sorg is joined by TruePrinceofPro “T-Pop!” with surprise run-ins from Mad Mike live in Chicago and Dave Podnar. Mad Mike gives his live perspective after WWE Raw in Chicago, including CM Punk's title win, the Chicago crowd, and why Sami Zayn's short championship reign still has everyone fired up. The crew debates whether Sami got screwed, whether WWE ever truly backed him as champion, and what the lack of Sami merchandise says about the company's priorities. The show also covers AEW Beach Break, Kenny Omega vs. MJF, the Casino Gauntlet, AAA's WWE/TKO era, Damian Priest entering AAA, Vikingo's injury, El Grande Americano's massive popularity in Mexico, and whether AAA should stay one hour. Plus: Sorgstock returns, Enjoy Wrestling and AIW Absolution previews, Top Rope Tabletop, 880 Wrestling, VCW, and a heartfelt “What We Learned” about wrestling fandom, real-life connection, ALS awareness, and stepping outside your comfort zone as a fan.

This week on AwesomeCast 786, Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar talk practical gadgets, game streaming, refurbished tech, digital ownership, and the weird future of transportation. Katie brings a larger, easier-to-open pill organizer that solves real daily medication frustrations. Dave recommends Dell Refurbished for affordable business-class computers, and Sorg shares how Aeroplay brings NVIDIA GeForce Now streaming to Apple TV, with a few login caveats. The crew also highlights Herman Hollerith for Disability Pride Month, reacts to Sony's reported physical disc and digital library controversies, explores functional LEGO F1 cars, checks out Pittsburgh's upcoming Science of Speed exhibit, watches a Waymo drive through fireworks, and discovers the surprisingly adult world of Fisher-Price Little People collector sets. Get geeky. Get awesome.