

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

Mar 31, 2024 • 1h 11min
738: Apple Collecting 101
Dive into the fascinating world of vintage Apple collecting! Discover the emotional connections and nostalgia behind iconic devices like the Power Mac G4. Gain practical tips and insights on budget-friendly collecting, finding rare models, and restoring classic machines. Hear personal stories that highlight the joy of owning these historic pieces of technology. Plus, enjoy a peek into the evolution of Apple hardware and how it shapes today’s creative endeavors!

Mar 24, 2024 • 1h 30min
737: Scoring a Movie, with David Metzger
Award-winning composer David Metzger, known for his work on Disney's 'Wish' and 'The Lion King', shares thrilling insights into film scoring. He reveals his journey from a small-town choir to working with major studios, highlighting the emotional impact and collaboration involved in composing music for animation. Metzger discusses the evolution of music technology, the blend of MIDI and live instruments, and how he ensures creativity flows through innovative tools. His experiences and anecdotes paint a vivid picture of the art of film music.

9 snips
Mar 17, 2024 • 1h 19min
736: Maintaining & Caring For Your Apple Hardware
Discover essential tips for maintaining and cleaning your beloved Apple devices, from effective cleaning methods to battery management strategies. The hosts delve into the complexities of battery cycles, how to optimize longevity, and common tech issues like keyboard maintenance. They also discuss new updates with the MacBook Air and reflect on the challenges of Apple's canceled car project. Join in for practical advice and personal anecdotes that will help keep your Apple gadgets running smoothly!

112 snips
Mar 10, 2024 • 1h 20min
735: Catching up with Ryan JA Murphy
Ryan JA Murphy, an assistant professor specializing in information systems, returns to share insights on software selection and workflow design. He emphasizes the importance of goal-setting before adopting tools and discusses effective time management strategies. The conversation spans from personal tech frustrations to the intriguing realm of AI and how ethical considerations shape its use. They also explore Obsidian's capabilities for personal organization, as well as the effects of background noise on focus, all while highlighting tech's impact on parenting and creativity.

12 snips
Mar 3, 2024 • 1h 24min
734: I Got to Be the Hero
Join a lively discussion on the exciting possibilities of Apple's Vision Pro headset, exploring its applications and impacts on everyday life. Dive into the mysteries of AppleCare, unraveling its repair policies and listener insights. Discover innovative productivity tools like Obsidian and clever approaches to 3D printing, as the hosts share personal anecdotes. Plus, get tips on boosting efficiency with Parallels Desktop and find out why augmented reality might be the future of tech!

96 snips
Feb 25, 2024 • 1h 20min
733: Our Favorite iPhone Apps
Dive into a lively debate as hosts share their top iOS app picks! Discover how tools like Drafts and Food Noms can supercharge productivity. Explore unique apps for tracking shipments, enhancing music practice, and even gardening. The conversation also highlights innovative solutions for family life and pet safety. Whether it's personal anecdotes or user-friendly utilities, this discussion is packed with useful insights and recommendations for elevating your iPhone experience!

10 snips
Feb 18, 2024 • 1h 25min
732: Catching up with Mike Vardy
Mike Vardy is a productivity expert and author of the upcoming book 'The Productivity Diet.' In this conversation, Mike shares the journey behind his new book and his passion for the Freewrite family of products. They dive into how he balances night owl productivity with family life and discuss the evolution of task management software like ClickUp. Mike also explains the importance of aligning productivity with personal rhythms and shares valuable insights on optimizing email and calendar management.

Feb 11, 2024 • 2h 6min
731: “Tears Rolled Down My Light Seal”
Dive into the fascinating world of Apple's Vision Pro, where the hosts share hands-on experiences and the excitement of immersive technology. They discuss the device's unique design and unboxing experience, emphasizing its dual role in productivity and entertainment. Personal anecdotes highlight the thrilling prospects of spatial computing, enhanced media consumption, and innovative navigation. Listener questions spark lively discussions about comfort and usability in public spaces, paving the way for future technological advancements.

15 snips
Feb 4, 2024 • 1h 33min
730: “Treat it as an Intern,” with Jeff Richardson
Jeff Richardson, an appellate lawyer and the mind behind iPhone JD, shares his insights on how AI is transforming document management in the legal field. He discusses the efficiency gained through innovative tools like Westlaw, alongside the challenges of managing sensitive data. Richardson also dives into maximizing productivity with iPads and iPhones, emphasizing the usefulness of accessories and widgets. Plus, he provides tips on optimizing workflows, ensuring professionals stay organized and effective in their day-to-day tasks.

23 snips
Jan 28, 2024 • 1h 43min
729: Don't Hear What We Aren't Saying
Dive into the intriguing world of Apple's self-service repair program and the pros and cons of DIY fixes versus professional help. Discover exciting updates about the much-anticipated Vision Pro, from battery life to performance thoughts. Explore productivity enhancements with task management tools like OmniFocus 4, and decode the complexities of data backup solutions. The hosts share amusing anecdotes about tech woes and their beloved pets, ensuring plenty of laughs along the way!


