Rachel Plotnick, an associate professor of cinema and media studies and author of 'Power Button' and 'License to Spill,' dives into the compelling world of buttons in technology. She explores our love/hate relationship with buttons, discussing their evolution from the 19th century to today's minimalist interfaces. The conversation covers the tactile debate between physical buttons and touchscreens, along with the impact of energy drinks on gaming culture and consumer habits. Rachel also touches on media hygiene and the challenges of privacy in our tech-driven lives.

Rachel Plotnick, an associate professor of cinema and media studies at Indiana University, shares insights from her book "Power Button". She delves into the psychology of buttons, their tactile resurgence in a touchscreen-dominated world, and their significant role in user experience. The discussion also covers her upcoming book "License to Spill", exploring the cultural impact of energy drinks in gaming and their marketing dynamics. Prepare for a fascinating journey through technology, control, and our love-hate relationship with buttons!

Dr. Rachel Plotnick, an associate professor at Indiana University and author of "Power Button," dives deep into automotive interface design. She discusses the historical evolution of car controls, highlighting the tension between manual buttons and touchscreen interfaces. The conversation explores the psychological impact of buttons on user agency and emotion, including the concept of the 'placebo button.' Plotnick also examines the future of car interfaces, emphasizing the balance between tactile feedback and emerging technologies, catering to diverse user experiences.