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Mac Power Users

789: Back to the Mac, with Matt Gemmell

Mar 23, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Matt Gemmell, an accomplished author known for his thriller and horror novels, shares his compelling journey of using an iPad as his sole computer for eight and a half years. He reveals the reasons behind his recent switch back to the Mac, highlighting the reliability and customization it offers for his creative tasks. The conversation explores the evolution of tech, the balance between minimalist and versatile approaches in productivity, and the creative processes that inform his writing, all while reflecting on the changing identity of the iPad.
01:23:36

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Matt Gemmell discusses how skills in coding can enhance storytelling, illustrating the connection between computer science and creative writing.
  • The transition back to the Mac highlighted the improved processing power and storage options, emphasizing technological advancements that streamline creative workflows.

Deep dives

The Connection Between Technology and Creativity

The guest emphasizes the relationship between computer science and creative writing, suggesting that skills in coding can contribute to storytelling abilities. This connection illustrates how technology can enhance creativity, allowing writers to use tools that improve their efficiency. The guest, previously a long-time iPad user, reflects on how the iPad originally served as an effective device for writing, even claiming that a minimalist approach to computing helped establish focus in his work. This underscores the idea that the right tools can support creativity, though they may not be the end goal.

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