

Mac Power Users
Relay
Learn about getting the most from your Apple technology with focused topics and workflow guests. Creating Mac Power Users since 2009, one conversation at a time. Hosted by David Sparks and Stephen Hackett.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 24, 2021 • 1h 33min
572: iPhone & iPad Tips
Explore essential iPhone and iPad tips that enhance productivity, from multitasking with drag and drop to using the Apple Notes app for document scanning. Discover hidden features in the Control Center and ways to improve privacy while sharing photos. Learn about the convenience of using the Measure app with LiDAR technology for precise measurements. Plus, get insider tricks for customizing keyboard settings and maintaining device performance, ensuring your Apple experience is both enjoyable and efficient!

Jan 17, 2021 • 1h 43min
571: Catching up with Jeff Richardson
Join Jeff Richardson, an attorney and the mastermind behind iPhone J.D., as he shares insights on his productivity-centered workflows using a 12.9-inch iPad Pro. He delves into the evolution of the iPhone and its impact on legal work while recommending apps like 1Password and GoodNotes for enhanced organization. Richardson also discusses the benefits of dual computing in law offices and how Apple and Microsoft can efficiently coexist. Plus, learn about his personal projects, including photography and home automation techniques for a smarter living space.

Jan 10, 2021 • 1h 37min
570: Mac Security
Dive into the evolution of Mac security, from key features like FileVault to the groundbreaking T1 and T2 chips. Explore the delicate balance between user protection and app functionality, as well as the intricacies of app notarization. Learn essential best practices for safeguarding your Mac, such as unique passwords, two-factor authentication, and effective backup strategies. The hosts also discuss recent macOS updates and Apple’s ongoing efforts to enhance user privacy and data integrity—all while maintaining the fun of community insights and personal stories.

28 snips
Jan 3, 2021 • 1h 27min
569: Contextual Computing
Dive into the fascinating world of contextual computing, where automation meets productivity. Discover how to tackle digital distractions and streamline workflows with effective shortcuts. Learn about mobile evolution and the personalized user experience it brings. Get practical tips for newcomers to automation, and explore tools like Keyboard Maestro for maximizing efficiency. Hear insights on desktop management techniques that enhance focus and practicality in both personal and professional settings.

Dec 27, 2020 • 1h 29min
568: Looking Toward 2021
The hosts reflect on the unexpected achievements of Apple during 2020 and the shift to remote work. They discuss the Mac's resurgence as a productivity tool, emphasizing improvements in performance and reliability. Insights into the challenges of navigating software in macOS Big Sur and the push for a slower macOS release cycle emerge. Aspirations for enhanced note-taking apps and hardware innovations, including a potential hybrid iMac, highlight their hopes for 2021. The conversation wraps with anticipations for Apple Silicon advancements and a more integrated ecosystem.

Dec 20, 2020 • 1h 35min
567: The M1 Honeymoon Continues
Dive into a lively discussion about personal holiday traditions and Christmas trees. Discover the M1 Mac experience, highlighting battery life and performance upgrades. The hosts explore managing digital bookmarks and the woes of Apple Mail. They also share insights on memory choices in M1 systems, and cover the importance of privacy features. Additionally, learn about the latest improvements in productivity apps and the seamless integration of smart home technology. Don't miss personal anecdotes about tech repairs and community gaming adventures!

7 snips
Dec 13, 2020 • 1h 18min
566: Paperless Strikes Back
The hosts dive into the world of paperless tools and workflows, discussing the benefits of multimedia platforms and mobile scanning. They share insights on managing sensitive information with 1Password and the evolution of PDF management, emphasizing effective organization strategies. Personal stories illustrate the ease of maintaining a paperless office and navigating document management within cloud services. A behind-the-scenes look at producing a field guide reveals iterative processes and the importance of video content in enhancing user experience.

Dec 6, 2020 • 1h 35min
565: The 2020 Holiday Gift Guide
Join two tech enthusiasts as they share amusing tales of holiday preparations and their fascination with the year’s standout tech gifts. From the M1 Mac to innovative chargers, they provide recommendations to delight any gadget lover. Discover secrets for enhancing AirPods Pro and tips for mobile photography. They discuss the charm of the HomePod mini and explore unique gifts like the Day One app for preserving memories. Finally, they tap into the nostalgia of pop culture collectibles and the joy of meaningful giving, all wrapped in laughter.

Nov 29, 2020 • 1h 34min
564: Taking Pictures and Enriching Lives with Austin Mann
Austin Mann, a renowned travel photographer known for his stunning mobile photography and insightful iPhone camera reviews, joins the discussion. He dives into the impressive features of the iPhone 12 Pro Max, spotlighting its low-light performance and advanced capabilities. Mann shares tips on silhouette photography and mastering exposure techniques, along with the revolutionary ProRAW feature that enhances creative control. He emphasizes the importance of daily practice, experimenting with settings, and connecting with subjects, inspiring listeners to elevate their iPhone photography skills.

Nov 22, 2020 • 2h 8min
563: macOS Big Sur
Discover the sleek redesign and new features of macOS Big Sur, including the excitement of the M1-powered MacBook Air. The hosts discuss compatibility issues, offering anecdotes on transitioning to newer hardware. Visual updates and user interface changes spark debates about usability and customization. Safari 14's innovations around performance and privacy take center stage, while enhancements to the Mac App Store and Mac Catalyst redefine app experiences. The transformative power of Apple Silicon is also spotlighted, signaling an exciting future for Mac users.