For this special episode, Dave Hamilton hosts the “Mac Geek Gab Caucus” live from the Macstock Conference. Joined by a robust panel including Pilot Pete, Allison Sheridan, Jeff Gamet, John F. Braun, and Adam Christianson, they launch into a retrospective on automation on Mac platforms, showcasing their diverse preferences for managing automation tasks. From AppleScript’s humble beginnings to the current state of affairs with JavaScript, IFTTT, and Zapier, listeners are offered a wealth of insight on tools and techniques to enhance their Mac experience. They then segue into the critical subject of backups, reminiscing about the evolution from third-party software to the now ubiquitous Time Machine, and the panelists impart wisdom on the myriad of contemporary options for data protection.

As the conversation flows, the topic of backups converges with the advent of cloud storage, leading the group to discuss the challenges and benefits of the streaming revolution. The divide between the cable cutters and sports devotees gets addressed, offering creative tips for optimizing one’s viewing experience across platforms. The final leg of their journey centers around Apple’s pain points, particularly Siri’s issues, product line complexity, and inconsistent interfaces.

They cap off the episode with Stump The Geeks: answers to live listener queries on web browsers, iCloud spam filters, and Bluetooth connectivity issues on Mac. Guided by their collective motto “Don’t Get Caught,” the caucus offers its gratitude to listeners and opens the floor for impromptu Q&A, ensuring Mac enthusiasts walk away enlightened and entertained. Press play and enjoy!

Thanks to Steve Sheridan for capturing this photo of us all!

Chapters/Timestamps/Stuff mentioned:

• • 00:00:00 – Introduction and Setting the Scene at MacStock
  • 00:03:20 – MacGeekGab Caucus: Introducing the Talking Stick Tradition
  • 00:07:19 – Topic 1: Automation Tools on Mac
  • 00:10:42 – Introduction to AppleScript and Script Editor
  • 00:11:54 – Sources for learning programming: Apple Developer site and a book
  • 00:15:18 – Happiness with current state of automation versus the past
  • 00:16:12 – SPONSOR: HOPWTR – Get 20% off!
  • 00:18:00 – Podcast: T-Minus Space Daily
  • 00:19:08 – Topic 2: Backups!
  • 00:22:14 – Importance of Snapshots and Network Backups
  • 00:27:54 – Backing up data with Drobo and cloud storage
  • 00:31:19 – The benefits of cloud storage.
  • 00:32:43 – Topic 3: Media Consumption
  • 00:40:43 – Dilution of TV programming and quality
  • 00:48:11 – Time Machine Backup for External Drive
  • 00:50:29 – The Uninteresting Devolution of the Conversation
  • 00:52:14 – Complexity in product line and decision-making difficulties
  • 00:55:06 – Troubles with Wi-Fi calling and default email addresses
  • 00:58:54 – Frustrations with Apple’s iCloud spam filters and missing emails
  • 01:02:19 – Troubleshooting Bluetooth Issues on Mac
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