

696: App Subscription Check-In
Dive into the world of app subscriptions, where the hosts crack open their App Store accounts to reveal what they're paying for and why. Discover the shift from one-time purchases to subscription models and how that shapes developers and users alike. They tackle productivity apps like Microsoft 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud, along with unique note-taking tools like Craft versus Notion. With insights into daily life and travel management apps, this discussion highlights the balance between convenience and cost in today's digital landscape.
01:49:04
Subscription Model Benefits
- Software subscription models offer developers predictable income.
- This allows for continuous improvement and feature additions, unlike the older one-time purchase model.
Cost Perspective
- David Sparks compared the cost of a $150 family dinner to monthly app subscription costs.
- He highlighted the value of daily-use apps compared to a one-time expense.
Evaluate Subscriptions
- Regularly evaluate if paid subscriptions still meet your needs.
- Subscriptions give customers more power to stop paying if an app doesn't improve.
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Intro
00:00 • 2min
The Evolving Landscape of App Subscriptions
02:13 • 16min
Navigating App Subscriptions and Productivity Tools
17:54 • 3min
Navigating Microsoft 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud for Family Use
20:42 • 3min
Exploring Subscription-Based Creativity and Productivity Tools
23:40 • 4min
Navigating Productivity Apps
27:39 • 7min
Navigating Note-Taking Apps: Craft vs. Notion
34:26 • 3min
Navigating Writing Tools: Grammarly and Beyond
37:30 • 6min
Exploring Productivity Apps and Business Solutions
43:54 • 3min
Exploring Subscription Apps for Daily Life
46:55 • 18min
Travel Management and Email Innovations
01:05:20 • 7min
Maximizing Productivity with Apps and Subscriptions
01:12:23 • 5min
Navigating Apple's Subscription Landscape
01:17:42 • 4min
The Importance of Reliable Cloud Backup Solutions
01:21:52 • 2min
Navigating Digital Tools and Entertainment
01:24:04 • 6min
Navigating Family Streaming Preferences
01:29:34 • 3min
Navigating Streaming Subscription Choices
01:32:18 • 2min
Contrasting Views on Subscriptions and Value of Time
01:34:19 • 4min
Navigating Subscription Apps
01:38:38 • 7min
Navigating App Subscriptions: Ethics and Personal Choices
01:45:48 • 3min

1984
None
George Orwell
Published in 1949, '1984' is a cautionary tale by George Orwell that explores the dangers of totalitarianism. The novel is set in a dystopian future where the world is divided into three super-states, with the protagonist Winston Smith living in Oceania, ruled by the mysterious and omnipotent leader Big Brother. Winston works at the Ministry of Truth, where he rewrites historical records to conform to the Party's ever-changing narrative. He begins an illicit love affair with Julia and starts to rebel against the Party, but they are eventually caught and subjected to brutal torture and indoctrination. The novel highlights themes of government surveillance, manipulation of language and history, and the suppression of individual freedom and independent thought.

Parcel
Anosh Irani
The Parcel is a powerful and moving novel that explores the life of Madhu, a hijra who has spent most of her life in the Kamathipura red-light district. The story delves into themes of identity, social responsibility, and the plight of marginalized communities. As Madhu navigates her past and present, she is forced to confront her role in preparing a young girl for a life of prostitution, leading to a journey of self-discovery and redemption.

One Line a Day Journal
The Blokehead

Netflix
Gina Keating

Obsidian
Jennifer L. Armentrout
Obsidian is the first book in the Lux series, where the protagonist, Kat, moves to West Virginia and finds herself entangled in a world of aliens. Daemon, her enigmatic neighbor, possesses powers that draw Kat into a dangerous and thrilling adventure. The book combines elements of science fiction, fantasy, and romance, with a focus on supernatural action and witty dialogue.

Timery for Toggl
None
Joseph Hribar
Timery for Toggl is an app designed to improve the user experience of Toggl, a time-tracking service. It offers features such as saved timers, easy time entry management, and customizable reports. The app is available on Mac, iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch, and it integrates well with modern iOS and iPadOS technologies.

Slack
Tom DeMarco
In 'Slack', Tom DeMarco argues that the pursuit of total efficiency can hinder a company's ability to adapt and innovate. He proposes that incorporating 'slack'—the freedom to change and innovate—into organizational structures can lead to growth, creativity, and quality. This approach is applicable to both new and old economy companies, offering a new model for achieving effectiveness.

Picture this
Norah McClintock
Ethan, a teenager living in a foster home, is trying to turn his life around through a photography program called Picture This. However, his past involvement with gangs and a series of mysterious incidents involving his camera lead him into a dangerous mystery. As Ethan navigates these challenges, he must protect his new life and uncover the secrets hidden in his photographs.

Past due
William Lashner
In 'Past Due', Victor Carl, a defense attorney with a failing practice, becomes embroiled in a murder investigation involving his client, Joey Cheaps. As Victor delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a complex web of secrets and crimes from Joey's past, including a missing suitcase and a Supreme Court justice with a hidden agenda.

Max
James Patterson
Jill Apple
In 'Max', the fifth book of the Maximum Ride series, Max and her flock are involved in a top-secret investigation to rescue Max's activist mom from a subterranean enemy. They must dive into dark waters, facing terrifying challenges along the way. The series is known for its action-packed adventures and thrilling plot twists.

Headspace
James R. Kachik
Headspace is a meditation and mindfulness app designed to reduce stress and improve focus. It offers guided meditations, sleep aids, and breathing exercises, all grounded in scientific principles. The app's intuitive design and calming aesthetic contribute to its effectiveness. Headspace emphasizes the importance of understanding the science behind mindfulness practices, making it accessible and informative for users. Its focus on overall well-being makes it a valuable tool for managing stress and promoting mental health.

Up ahead
Atlanta (Ga.). Metropolitan Planning Commission.
This book outlines a comprehensive plan for the development of metropolitan Atlanta, focusing on land use and regional growth strategies. It was created by the Metropolitan Planning Commission, which later evolved into the Atlanta Regional Commission. The plan reflects the era's urban planning principles and the challenges faced by rapidly expanding cities like Atlanta.

Backblaze
A Guide to Cloud Storage and Data Protection
Unknown Author
This book would explore the principles of cloud storage, focusing on Backblaze's innovative approach to providing secure and affordable data protection solutions for individuals and businesses.

Glass
Sam Savage
In 'Glass', Sam Savage crafts a thoughtful exploration of memory and late-life reflection through the character Edna, who engages in a typewritten argument with her late husband. The novel is a philosophical exploration as much as a skilled piece of storytelling, delving into themes of art, memory, and the human condition.

Setapp
No subtitle available
No author name available.
No description available

Ivory
Power and Poaching in Africa
Keith Somerville
This book provides a comprehensive overview of the illegal ivory trade, exploring its historical roots, its connection to corruption and conflicts, and its impact on local livelihoods. It offers a detailed examination of the complex issues surrounding elephant poaching and the ivory trade.

Streaking
The Simple Practice of Conscious, Consistent Actions That Create Life-Changing Results
Jeffery Downs
Jami Downs
This book introduces the concept of 'streaking' as a method to achieve mastery in various areas by selecting simple activities and repeating them over time. It provides strategies to integrate these activities into daily life, overcome obstacles, and build confidence through consistent actions.

ReadWise
Lefkowitz
Mary Lefkowitz is a renowned classical scholar, but there is no evidence of her writing a book titled 'ReadWise'. The term 'Readwise' refers to a different product designed for reading and note-taking.

Teach Yourself VISUALLY Google Workspace
Guy Hart-Davis
This book provides a comprehensive guide to using Google Workspace, covering tools like Google Calendar, Drive, Gmail, Docs, Sheets, and Slides. It includes over 700 full-color screenshots to help readers learn effectively.
Subscriptions aren't just the future of software anymore, but they are how many developers are running their businesses today. David and Stephen open up their App Store accounts to discuss what they're paying for and why.
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