Grumpy Old Geeks

683: There IS a Spoon!

Feb 8, 2025

Dave Bittner, a cybersecurity expert and podcast host, shares insights on ransomware payment refusals and pressing security concerns in today’s tech landscape. The conversation delves into Elon Musk's chaotic influence on government tech and the rapid rise of AI, including the EU’s ban on high-risk systems. They also discuss the implications of cryptocurrency investments and pop culture highlights, like The Devil May Cry anime and the anticipated return of Mythic Quest. Bittner’s expertise brings a sharp focus on the intersection of tech, security, and entertainment.

01:20:38

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Episode guests

Dave Bittner

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The podcast critiques Elon Musk's impact on tech governance, emphasizing concerns over the accountability and maturity of his youthful team.

The resurgence of quality journalism in outlets like Wired and Rolling Stone reflects a quest for integrity amid perceived crises in media.

Hosts express skepticism about state investments in cryptocurrencies, highlighting the risks and implications for fiscal responsibility amidst market instability.

Deep dives

The State of Internet Media

Recent discussions highlight the unexpected resurgence of quality journalism from once-struggling outlets like Wired and Rolling Stone. The hosts reflect on how these publications seemed revitalized, potentially spurred by a desire to reclaim journalistic integrity amid current events. They humorously note that it may take an external threat to inspire these organizations, similar to past instances where other media outlets also stepped up under pressure. The conversation shifts to the relevance of alternative news platforms, with one host sharing positive experiences using Blue Sky for insightful updates.

Intro

2min

Instant Expertise and Social Media Conundrums

14min

Resignations, Crypto, and Privacy

8min

AI, Tech Trends, and Pop Culture Reflections

23min

Disappointment in Sandman and Power Bank Recommendations

2min

Nostalgia and Modernity in Tech and Entertainment

20min

Tracking, Eyewear, and Humor

10min

Listener Contributions and Merchandise Highlights

4min

This week, Jason and Brian dive into the chaos surrounding Elon Musk’s growing influence in government tech, with young engineers playing key roles in his takeover. DOGE employees are being ordered off Slack, USAID is crumbling, and Musk’s war with U.S. officials rages on. Meanwhile, AI takes center stage with the EU banning high-risk systems, DeepSeek’s security concerns, and Amazon throwing down $100 billion on AI advancements. Big Tech moves are equally absurd—Google is now open to AI-powered weapons, Meta might scrap risky AI models, and Tesla is struggling in Europe thanks to Elon’s latest blunders. Meanwhile, states are rushing to pour taxpayer money into so-called “strategic cryptocurrency reserves.”

In entertainment, The Devil May Cry anime’s ridiculous theme song is a standout, Mythic Quest returns, and Beast Games looks promising. AI controversially helped The Beatles score a Grammy, and Denis Villeneuve is making Dune 3 because, well, fans demanded it. Over in reboot land, Sarah Michelle Gellar may return for a Buffy revival on Hulu with Chloé Zhao at the helm, while Neil Gaiman finds himself in serious legal trouble. Gadget fans get a look at the Anker Zolo charger, a Google search trick to dodge AI summaries, and Apple’s latest social feature. Also, say goodbye to Apple’s AR glasses before they even had a chance to shine.

Dave Bittner joins The Dark Side segment with updates on cybersecurity, including a wave of ransomware payment refusals and the Andersons’ infamous eviction from Disneyland’s most exclusive club. Pirates in China, Disney park music, and tracking yourself via in-app ads round out the discussion. Closing out the show, a shout-out to Snap’s CEO for supporting LA wildfire recovery and a nod to SoberOutfitters for keeping things clean. Buckle up—it’s another wild ride with the Grumpy Old Geeks!

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Show notes at https://gog.show/683

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