
Mac Geek Gab — Apple Tips, Tricks, and Troubleshooting
Get answers to your Apple tech questions every week! Dave Hamilton, Adam Christianson, and Pilot Pete share tips, tricks, and troubleshooting advice for your Mac, iPhone, iPad, and more — all delivered in a fun, friendly way that helps geeks and everyday users alike. Don’t Get Caught without your tech working right!
Latest episodes

Jul 21, 2025 • 1h 16min
Stump The Geeks Live from Macstock 2025
Live from Macstock 2025, tech enthusiasts face off in a lively Q&A. Discover how to enable iPhone Mirroring for notifications and troubleshoot pesky Dock issues. The hosts tackle everything from Drobo debates to strange Apple Maps problems, all in real-time. Tips for multi-monitor setups and VPNs keep the crowd engaged. Unscripted, with laughs and tech dilemmas from the audience, this session is a treasure trove of quick fixes and community bonding. Plus, enjoy a toast to favorite wines amidst the tech chatter!

Jul 14, 2025 • 1h 19min
Doing The AirPods Dance
You’re swimming in Quick Tips this week on Mac Geek Gab 1098! You’ll learn how to fix flaky Apple TV Wi-Fi, make your AirPods fit better (hint: flip ’em), and finally tame Hot Corners with a smart modifier key. Discover the secret to custom routes in Apple Maps on iOS 18 and why renaming flags in Mail might be the power move you didn’t know you needed. Oh—and don’t forget: July 14th is National Tape Measure Day, so measure twice before you trigger that accidental corner action.
Then it’s your questions answered, from routers with nerdy flexibility to iCloud alias issues and Apple Music migration woes. We dive into why not all USB-C cables are created equal—seriously, Don’t Get Caught with the wrong one—and help you vet display brightness before buying. Plus, Cool Stuff Found brings Raspberry Pi Time Machine backups, Copilot Money, and Setapp’s killer image tools. Always be learning, always be tweaking—just don’t get stuck with bad cables.
00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1098 for Monday, July 14th, 2025
July 14th: National Tape Measure Day
Police Code 10-98 – Assignment Completed…or…JailBreak! (why can’t both be true?)
MGG Monthly Giveaway – Victrola Turntable
Quick Tips
00:00:01 Jim-QT-Add a modifier key to hot corners to keep from accidentally triggering them
00:02:12 Chicago Tom-QT-Renaming Flags in Apple Mail
00:04:54 rnDoug-QT-Flip your AirPods upside down to resolve fit issues
00:08:36 MySpoonIsTooBig & ChicagoTom-QT-Possible fixes for flaky Apple TV Wi-Fi connections
00:10:32 Chicago Tom-QT-Apple Maps lets you do custom routes in iOS 18, too…kinda
Sponsors
00:13:33 SPONSOR: K12 can help your child start reaching their full potential in life now – and give you the support you need to get them there! Go to K12.com/MGG today to find a tuition-free K12-powered school near you and enroll now
00:15:04 SPONSOR: Coda, the one Doc to rule them all. Bring your text and tables together! Get six months of the team plan for startups for FREE at Coda.io/mgg.
00:16:21 SPONSOR: Constant Contact makes marketing easier and more effective for small businesses like yours. Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at ConstantContact.com
Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared!
00:17:54 Michael-Should I consolidate Dropbox into iCloud to save $$?
Mint Mobile (it’ll cut your “big three” cell phone bill in half)
00:25:28 Eddie-I need a good, standalone router with some nerdy flexibility
Synology WRX560
GL.iNet Flint 2 (GL-MT6000)
UniFi Cloud Gateway Max (doesn’t have Wi-Fi, so you’d need to add that)
00:30:28 Ian-Why can’t I receive to my new iCloud aliases?
Check out NosillaCast
00:34:02 Michael-New iPhone and watch craziness
Sponsors
00:41:29 SPONSOR: Function Health gives you access to the kind of data most people never see—and the insights to actually take action. Visit www.functionhealth.com/MGG. The first 1000 get a $100 credit toward their membership.
00:42:53 SPONSOR: OpenPhone is the #1 business phone system that streamlines and scales your customer communications. Get 20% off your first 6 months at OpenPhone.com/MGG
Don’t Get Caught
00:44:22 Paul-DGC-Some inexpensive USB-C cables aren’t equal on both sides
Mac Geek Gab 996 (“What’s the Difference Between USB4 vs. Thunderbolt (3/4) Cables?” starts at 47:50)
00:51:06 Bob-DGC-You can’t migrate accounts that ever had Apple Music profiles
00:54:25 RusselG-DGC-Check your nits before you buy a display
DisplayBuddy
Cool Stuff Found
01:00:30 Joel-CSF-1096–Use Raspberry Pi for Time Machine backups
01:02:51 Cory-CSF-Copilot Money
Using Apple Card (and Apple Savings) as one’s primary card
01:07:52 JanLandy-CSF-Clop to auto optimize images, video, PDFs (also in Setapp)
Permute
Downie
yt-dlp from the Terminal
Show Business
01:12:15 MGG Premium Listener Contribution Appreciation Moment
01:16:44 MGG 1098 Outtro
MGG Monthly Giveaway – Victrola Turntable
Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly
Pilot Pete’s Aviation Podcast: So There I Was (for Aviation Enthusiasts)
The Debut Film Podcast – Adam’s new podcast!
Dave’s Business Brain (for Entrepreneurs) and Gig Gab (for Working Musicians) Podcasts
MGG Merch is Available!
Mac Geek Gab YouTube Page
Mac Geek Gab Live Calendar
This Week’s MGG Premium Contributors
MGG Apple Podcasts Reviews
feedback@macgeekgab.com
224-888-GEEK
Active MGG Sponsors and Coupon Codes List
BackBeat Media Podcast Network

Jul 7, 2025 • 1h 19min
Bring Your Own Dog
You’re in for a fast-paced ride with Pilot Pete, Adam Christianson, and Dave Hamilton as they dive into power-user Quick Tips that’ll change your Apple game. From lightning-fast navigation in Notes to creating Spotify-style stations in Apple Music, and securing your Time Machine volumes inside encrypted APFS containers, this episode is loaded. You’ll rearrange CarPlay apps like a pro, check your battery with Siri, and streamline iCloud Mail aliases. And if you haven’t played with ChatGPT’s new voice mode recently, you’re missing out—it’s weirdly friendly.
Then it’s a hard turn into real-world snags, like when JP’s HomePod stopped being a Home Hub—Don’t Get Caught like he did. Adam tries—and fails—to merge his Apple IDs, raising red flags for developer account holders. Cool Stuff Found includes retro-modern turntables from Victrola (this month’s MGG giveaway!) and a handy AirPods noise guide. Listener questions dig into hostname quirks and CarPlay glitches, and the crew weighs in on Apple’s 2026 OS betas. Pilot Pete gives iOS 26 a solid 95%, so maybe it’s time to test the waters—maybe just not on your main device?
00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1097 for Monday, July 7th, 2025
July 7th: World Chocolate Day
Police Code 10-97 – Arrived at Scene
MGG Monthly Giveaway – Victrola Turntable
The MGG Merch Store is Live!
We’ll be doing MGG Live at Macstock on Saturday, July 12th! Join us, and use our coupon code: MACGEEKGAB50 to save $50!
Quick Tips
00:00:01 Dan-QT-Tab from Notes List to get to Start of Note
00:04:44 Tony-QT-Apple Music Create Station – Spotify also
00:06:06 Allen-QT-Encrypt your Time Machine Volumes inside an APFS container
2TB Crucial X9 Pro SSD
00:08:18 Joe-QT-Apple iCloud Mail Aliases
00:11:08 Steve-QT-With CarPlay (or not) you can ask Siri for your iPhone’s battery percentage
00:13:24 Who is using Alexa+ Early Access?
00:17:39 ChatGPT’s voice mode…is friendlier
00:18:40 Gary-QT-ReArrange Apps in CarPlay to suit your needs!
00:19:59 Tim-QT-Show alternate directions in Apple Maps CarPlay
Sponsors
00:21:06 SPONSOR: Fireflies AI. Fireflies is the number one AI teammate that transcribes, summarizes, and analyzes your conversations so you can get the most out of every meeting. Get 2 months free at Fireflies.ai/mgg.
00:22:34 SPONSOR: Strawberry.me. Own Your Future. Discover what’s possible with a professional coach by your side. Visit Strawberry.me/MGG or use code MGG to claim your $50 credit today.
Don’t Get Caught
00:23:53 JP-I got caught with my HomePod stopping acting as a HomeHub
00:30:49 Fr-John-DGC Follow Up-CleanMyMac Not as effective as MacUpdater
00:31:48 Bob-CSF-Latest lets you check for software updates on your Mac
On Merging Your Apple IDs
00:33:11 Adam could NOT merge his two Apple IDs, possibly because he has a developer account?
Sponsors
00:44:07 SPONSOR: Caldera Lab. Guys, don’t settle for drugstore junk or steal your partner’s products—elevate your routine with skincare made for you. Head to CalderaLab.com/MGG and use MGG at checkout for 20% off your first order.
00:45:45 SPONSOR: K12 can help your child start reaching their full potential in life now – and give you the support you need to get them there! Go to K12.com/MGG today to find a tuition-free K12-powered school near you and enroll now
00:47:19 PODCAST: The 5 AM Miracle. Every Monday morning, The 5 AM Miracle is here to help you dominate your day before breakfast, create powerful lifelong habits, and tackle your grandest goals with extraordinary energy.
Cool Stuff Found
00:48:12 CSF-Victrola Stream Onyx Turntable
00:52:18 CSF-Victrola Revolution GO 3-Speed Bluetooth Portable Rechargeable Record Player with Built-in Speakers
00:54:35 PJ-CSF-AirPods Noises Reference Page
00:56:06 Deborah-CSF-1096-OWC’s Thunderbolt Dual DisplayPort Adapter
Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared!
00:59:36 Alan-Why does my Mac’s local hostname keep adding and increasing numbers at the end?
01:06:06 Tim-Why Cellular Connectivity Issue with CarPlay
iDoing Android Head Unit
Apple’s Upcoming 2026 OSes
01:11:37 rnDoug-Before you install iPadOS 26 beta…
01:13:32 Adam’s having a good iPadOS 26 beta experience…for the most part
01:14:23 Pilot Pete gives iOS 26 beta a 95% rating
01:17:27 MGG 1097 Outtro
MGG Monthly Giveaway – Victrola Turntable
Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly
Pilot Pete’s Aviation Podcast: So There I Was (for Aviation Enthusiasts)
The Debut Film Podcast – Adam’s new podcast!
Dave’s Business Brain (for Entrepreneurs) and Gig Gab (for Working Musicians) Podcasts
MGG Merch is Available!
Mac Geek Gab YouTube Page
Mac Geek Gab Live Calendar
This Week’s MGG Premium Contributors
MGG Apple Podcasts Reviews
feedback@macgeekgab.com
224-888-GEEK
Active MGG Sponsors and Coupon Codes List
BackBeat Media Podcast Network

Jun 30, 2025 • 1h 17min
He's Mr. Hundred and One!
You’re about to level up your tech game with Quick Tips and Cool Stuff Found that’ll make you wonder how you ever lived without them. From keeping tabs on low AirPods battery via the Today view widget to renaming your Spaces for better Mac workflow, it’s all here. Discover magnetic AirTag mounts, a Zulu Time converter, a portable vac/blower combo, and even a 10Gbps SSD that’s thinner than your AirPods case. And if you’ve been craving better backups, networked Time Machine options from Synology and Buffalo make an appearance, too. Don’t Get Caught without them.
Ever thought of doing a clean install straight from macOS Settings? You can. Migrating from Intel to Apple Silicon? Yeah, it “just works.” Plus, we answer listener questions on fixing autocorrect quirks, exporting text replacements, and balancing podcast audio using tools like Overcast and Levelator. Got a slow-booting iMac? Try verbose mode and dive deep with the Terminal. And if you’re monitor shopping, we’ve got budget picks ranging from Sceptre to Philips. This episode’s packed—just the way you like it.
00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1096 for Monday, June 30th, 2025
June 30th: Social Media Day
What is “Wook Flu”?
Police Code 10-96 – Mental patient / Detain suspect
MGG Monthly Giveaway – 1MORE Sonoflow Headphones
We’ll be doing MGG Live at Macstock on Saturday, July 12th! Join us, and use our coupon code: MACGEEKGAB50 to save $50!
Quick Tips
00:00:01 Scott-QT-Use the Batteries widget in Today view to see low AirPods
Cool Stuff Found
00:03:29 Richard-CSF-AirTag Magnetic Aero
00:05:02 Ben-CSF-Spaces Renamer to assign names to your Mac’s spaces
00:06:25 Andrew-CSF-Time Zone Converter for Zulu Time
00:09:01 CSF-Ampace Andes 1500 Power Station
00:13:18 CSF-Scosche Portable Vac / Blower
Sponsors
00:16:16 SPONSOR: Wix puts incredible website creation at your fingertips with their AI site builder. It’s fun and it’s drag-and-drop easy. Go to Wix.com to start building your website today. Click this link https://bit.ly/43XQ3JB to start your free trial with Wix.
00:17:34 SPONSOR: Surfshark. Secure your privacy with SurfShark. Go to https://surfshark.com/mgg or use code MGG at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!
Cool Stuff Found for backups and more
00:18:51 CSF-Crucial 2TB SSD – 10GBps USB-C – $121 (about the size than an AirPods case)
CSF-Anker 4-in1 USB-C Hub
Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI)
00:24:18 Partitioning vs. Multiple Volumes with APFS
00:30:25 Brian-What device for simple networked Time Machine?
Buffalo LinkStation
LinkStation Time Machine support
Synology BeeStation (also with TimeMachine support)
00:39:27 What about a WiFi NAS?
00:41:12 Darrin-QT-Clean Install right in macOS Settings
00:45:47 Peter-QT-1095-Migrating from Intel to Apple Silicon “just works”
Sponsors
00:49:09 SPONSOR: ScreenFloat 2. From the folks who brought us Yoink comes ScreenFloat 2, the Mac’s Screen Capture All-Rounder. Capture screenshots & recordings, then trim/crop/cut to your heart’s content.
00:50:38 SPONSOR: Constant Contact makes marketing easier and more effective for small businesses like yours. Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at ConstantContact.com.
Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared!
00:52:01 TonyB-How do I stop macOS from correcting a single word/name?
00:54:07 Right-click on your Mac to export your text replacements
00:55:58 Hinches-How can I balance podcast audio when one person is louder than the other?
Overcast
Levelator
AES “Recommendation for Loudness of Audio Streaming & Network File Playback.”
01:01:48 Bob-My 2019 iMac started booting very, very slowly
MacPaw – How to boot your Mac in verbose mode
sudo nvram boot-args=”-v”
01:07:21 Dan-Which 27″ Display should I get?
Samsung for $250
Sceptre for $180
Monoprice (refurbished) for $250
Dell for $280
LG for 399
Philips Creator Series for $433
01:14:43 MGG 1096 Outtro
MGG Monthly Giveaway – 1MORE Sonoflow Headphones
Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly
Pilot Pete’s Aviation Podcast: So There I Was (for Aviation Enthusiasts)
The Debut Film Podcast – Adam’s new podcast!
Dave’s Business Brain (for Entrepreneurs) and Gig Gab (for Working Musicians) Podcasts
MGG Merch is Available!
Mac Geek Gab YouTube Page
Mac Geek Gab Live Calendar
This Week’s MGG Premium Contributors
MGG Apple Podcasts Reviews
feedback@macgeekgab.com
224-888-GEEK
Active MGG Sponsors and Coupon Codes List
BackBeat Media Podcast Network

Jun 23, 2025 • 1h 20min
Is it appleOS 26? Or aquaOS 26?
Curious about upgrading your Mac? Discover essential migration tips to avoid digital clutter, plus a fascinating comparison of MacBook Air and Pro displays. Learn creative uses for iPhone mirroring and clever tips like binder clips as minimalist wallets. Delve into AirTag functionality, Apple Music hacks, and automation tools like Retrobatch. Explore the naming debate for Apple's next OS and troubleshoot Bluetooth audio quirks to enhance your tech experience. It's a treasure trove of practical tips and engaging insights!

Jun 16, 2025 • 1h 24min
My Zulu Converter is Offline
You’re gonna love this jam-packed episode of Mac Geek Gab! Dive in with a barrage of Quick Tips, like turning your wonky circle sketches into perfect shapes, compressing image sizes with Mail and Squash, and even tricking Safari into showing you paywalled content. Your fellow geeks also bring sharp insights—from switching Night Stand clocks from UTC to local time, to using OnyX for nuking Time Machine snapshots. And yes, CleanMyMac’s Space Lens is back!
But that’s just the warm-up. This week’s geek-fueled highlight? Custom Focus Modes. Listeners share brilliant ways to reclaim their attention—like silencing politics, syncing modes to time and place, and creating modes for everything from church to live sports. You’ll also get answers to smart questions about iMessage quirks, 5G Standalone, and whether your IoT network is friend or foe. Stay ahead of the curve with a peek into visionOS 26 and the next Podcasts app update—and remember, Don’t Get Caught.
00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1094 for Monday, June 16th, 2025
June 16th: Take Your Cat to Work Day
Police Code 10-94 – Street Racing
MGG Monthly Giveaway – 1MORE
We’ll be doing MGG Live at Macstock on Saturday, July 12th! Join us, and use our coupon code: MACGEEKGAB50 to save $50!
00:06:23 Ad feedback?
Quick Tips
00:00:01 BoyMax-QT-Hold your finger down after drawing a circle with MarkUp, and it will make it a perfect oval/circle
00:08:11 Bill-QT-Use Apple Mail to Quickly Reduce Photos
Squash (for Mac)
ImageOptim
Permute
00:13:44 Joe-QT-Hide Distracting Items to read (some) paywalled content in Safari
00:18:05 QT-Night Stand Mode Clock on UTC – Fix to Local
00:22:24 Shannon-QT-1092-OnyX can delete Snapshots en masse
00:25:34 Jenn-QT-Space Lens is BACK in Clean My Mac
00:26:56 SPONSOR: Fireflies AI. Fireflies is the number one AI teammate that transcribes, summarizes, and analyzes your conversations so you can get the most out of every meeting. Get 2 months free at Fireflies.ai/mgg.
00:28:38 SPONSOR: Surfshark. Secure your privacy with SurfShark. Go to https://surfshark.com/mgg or use code MGG at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!
Your Custom Focus Modes
00:30:01 Randy-Custom Focus Mode: Church
00:31:05 Derek-Custom Focus Mode: No Politics!
00:32:43 Brian-1092-Triggering work focus mode by time and location
00:34:06 Harvey-1092-Use Focus Modes with the Action button…and when watching Live Sports
00:36:17 Steve-1092-Using Focus Modes to manage notifications and let me know what mode I’m in
00:39:04 Henry-1092-Focus modes for night vision, inspiration, sleep, and more
00:41:44 Adam’s Audio Issues…Continue
00:44:51 Darrin-Custom Focus Modes: Morning, Daytime, Evening, Sleep
00:46:15 SPONSOR: Yoink from Eternal Storms. Yoink is a temporary “shelf” that makes drag-and-drop easier for your Mac, iPhone, and iPad. It’s one of Dave’s “must-have” apps.
00:47:33 SPONSOR: BBEdit, the power tool for text from Bare Bones Software; now with integrated Notebooks and extended language support.
Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared!
00:50:36 Tom-How do I set more-granular focus modes?
00:52:50 Judy-Using alias’ and question about keeping Messages…
01:01:45 JP-Why can’t I search in Recently Deleted Messages?
01:03:33 JT-What is 5G Standalone and do I want it?
01:09:59 Mike-Will adding an IOT network solve my headaches…or add more?
WiFi Explorer
Apple’s Upcoming 2026 OSes
01:14:23 New features coming to Apple’s Podcasts app
01:15:49 Adam installed visionOS 26
01:22:18 MGG 1094 Outtro
MGG Monthly Giveaway – 1MORE Headphones
Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly
Pilot Pete’s Aviation Podcast: So There I Was (for Aviation Enthusiasts)
The Debut Film Podcast – Adam’s new podcast!
Dave’s Business Brain (for Entrepreneurs) and Gig Gab (for Working Musicians) Podcasts
MGG Merch is Available!
Mac Geek Gab YouTube Page
Mac Geek Gab Live Calendar
This Week’s MGG Premium Contributors
MGG Apple Podcasts Reviews
feedback@macgeekgab.com
224-888-GEEK
Active MGG Sponsors and Coupon Codes List
BackBeat Media Podcast Network

Jun 10, 2025 • 1h 23min
Hello Again, Round-Rect!
In this week’s Mac Geek Gab, you, Pilot Pete, Adam Christianson, and Dave Hamilton dig deep into everything Apple announced for macOS 26 “Tahoe” and beyond. Get the scoop on which Macs make the cut, how Spotlight finally grows up into a proper launcher—with clipboard history—and why Shortcuts just became your new automation best friend. iPadOS 26 is the surprise hero with windowed multitasking, background tasks, audio input selection, and full-on live translation across the board. This update shifts iPads closer to Mac territory than ever before. Don’t Get Caught sleeping on these power features.
From Apple Intelligence to Xcode 26’s Swift Assist, it’s clear Apple’s leaning hard into AI and dev tools. You’ll hear why Craig Federighi says they delayed some of this to keep the quality bar high—and why that might be a good thing. Over on iOS 26, Hold Assist and group chat polls offer real upgrades, and Apple Maps now lets you set preferred routes. You’ll also learn what’s new in Apple Wallet, visionOS (yes, widgets and PS VR2 support!), and watchOS 26’s Wrist Flick and Workout Buddy. It’s a whirlwind tour of what’s next—served with your favorite geeky insights.
00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1093 for Monday, June 9th, 2025
June 9th: National Dark ’n’ Stormy Day
Police Code 10-93 – Blockage
MGG Monthly Giveaway – 1MORE
00:02:32 Liquid Glass
Remembering Bill Atkinson – Round-Rects are Everywhere
00:08:23 macOS 26 “Tahoe”
Which Macs will run macOS 26?
Spotlight becomes a launcher WITH a Clipboard History
Shortcuts automations can trigger when you add a file to a folder
00:23:00 SPONSOR: Storyworth uses quick, weekly email prompts to create a unique keepsake hardcover book for you or your loved ones. Save $10 on your first purchase at StoryWorth.com/MACGEEKGAB.
00:24:18 iPadOS 26
iPad gets windows!!
iPad gets audio input selector
Background tasks come to iPad
Live translation comes to all ‘26 Apple OSes
00:33:50 SPONSOR: Caldera Lab. Guys, don’t settle for drugstore junk or steal your partner’s products—elevate your routine with skincare made for you. Head to CalderaLab.com/MGG and use MGG at checkout for 20% off your first order.
00:35:36 Apple Intelligence
“This work needed more time to reach our high-quality bar” – Craig Federighi on June 9th, 2025
00:42:50 Visual Intelligence
00:44:39 Xcode 26
Swift Assist
00:52:06 SPONSOR: Coda, the one Doc to rule them all. Bring your text and tables together! Get six months of the team plan for startups for FREE at Coda.io/mgg.
00:53:28 iOS 26
Hold Assist
Polls in Group Messages
Preferred Routes in Apple Maps
01:07:26 Apple Services
Apple Wallet additions with Digital ID and Order Tracking
01:09:45 visionOS 26
Logitech Muse
Playstation VR 2 Sense Controller
Insta360
Widgets coming to visionOS…and CarPlay!
01:17:12 watchOS 26
Workout Buddy
Wrist Flick
01:20:40 MGG 1093 Outtro
Check out Robert Scovill talking about mixing sound at Sphere on Gig Gab
MGG Monthly Giveaway – 1MORE Headphones
Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly
Pilot Pete’s Aviation Podcast: So There I Was (for Aviation Enthusiasts)
The Debut Film Podcast – Adam’s new podcast!
Dave’s Business Brain (for Entrepreneurs) and Gig Gab (for Working Musicians) Podcasts
MGG Merch is Available!
Mac Geek Gab YouTube Page
Mac Geek Gab Live Calendar
This Week’s MGG Premium Contributors
MGG Apple Podcasts Reviews
feedback@macgeekgab.com
224-888-GEEK
Active MGG Sponsors and Coupon Codes List
BackBeat Media Podcast Network

10 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 1h 20min
MGG...Jeopardy Style
Discover how to revive dead notifications and optimize your Dock layout for remote desktops! Learn tips for managing orphaned system extensions and using iOS's default translate app. Explore effective ways to declutter your Lock Screen and harness Shortcuts to turn your Apple TV into a stunning photo gallery. Plus, dive into tech troubleshooting, comparing Wi-Fi mesh systems, and hear a fascinating success story involving an AirTag. Wrap up with cool gadgets like the BoostHero flashlight and solar charger for cars!

May 26, 2025 • 1h 20min
Is That Foreboding or Foreshadowing?
Ever wished you could merge your Apple accounts or automate your lawn care? This week’s Mac Geek Gab has you covered!
Discover how to finally merge your Apple accounts, combining your purchases and iCloud data seamlessly. Dave, Adam, and Pete dive into the long-awaited solution for those juggling multiple Apple IDs. Don’t get caught with fragmented accounts any longer!
The hosts also explore the game-changing effect of robot lawnmowers while reviewing the new Eufy E15, discussing its features, setup process, and potential impact on lawn care. Other topics include managing podcast storage, finding hidden Wi-Fi passwords on your iPhone, and the importance of keeping work and personal data separate on company devices.
Tune in for these insights and more, including Quick Tips, Cool Stuff Found, and Don’t Get Caught moments that will enhance your tech life. Listen now to learn at least five new things and join the Mac Geek Gab community!
00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1091 for Monday, May 26th, 2025
May 26th: National Paper Airplane Day (and Memorial Day!)
Police Code 10-91 – Pick up subject / Prepare for inspection / Animal
MGG Monthly Giveaway – Win an eero Outdoor 7
We’ll be doing MGG Live at Macstock on Saturday, July 12th! Join us, and use our coupon code: MACGEEKGAB50 to save $50!
Quick Tips
00:00:01 QT-Tap Settings > Wi-Fi > Edit for a list of Wi-Fi networks on iPhone
00:05:06 Joe-QT-1089–You Can Finally Merge Apple Accounts
00:09:44 Patrick-QT-Terminal Command to see SpaceHogs!
sudo du -h -d 1
~/Library/Group Containers/#######.groups.com.apple.podcasts/Caches
Also check the Books app’s storage of audiobooks
00:16:45 Allison-QT-When you change a file’s “Open With…” you have to re-approve the new app in the System Settings > Privacy & Security
Open In (also in Setapp)
00:20:40 Drewski-QT-Pinned Contacts in Messages – And Quick Location without “FindMy”
00:23:01 SPONSOR: Caldera Lab. Guys, don’t settle for drugstore junk or steal your partner’s products—elevate your routine with skincare made for you. Head to CalderaLab.com/MGG and use MGG at checkout for 20% off your first order.
Don’t Get Caught
00:24:57 Bill-DGC-Keep Your Private Files PRIVATE! [Audio]
Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared!
00:35:41 Barry-AppleTV Photos Screen Saver Limit Work-Around.
00:40:15 QT-Switch Apple TV Screensavers with Remote (Swipe or Press Up)
00:43:09 ATC-CSF-Apple TV Snoopy Screensavers
00:44:17 Allison and all-Hazel still has App Sweep…and there might be a trick to making it work (again)
00:46:18 SPONSOR: OWC’s Express 1M2 Ultra-fast, compatible, and portable USB4 NVMe SSD.
00:47:58 PODCAST: Why?!?!?!?! is the internet like that? That’s the question the folks at Never Post Podcast try to answer in each episode of their podcast. Never Post: a podcast for, and about, the internet.
Cool Stuff Found
00:49:00 RG-CSF-1089-BXST Refrigerator protector
Rob-CSF-1089-Refrigmatic Delayed Start Surge Protector
00:52:24 CSF-Eufy E15 Robot Lawnmower review- $1,599 (with Amazon $200 coupon)
01:16:06 MGG 1091 Outtro
MGG Monthly Giveaway – eero Outdoor 7
Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly
Pilot Pete’s Aviation Podcast: So There I Was (for Aviation Enthusiasts)
The Debut Film Podcast – Adam’s new podcast!
Dave’s Business Brain (for Entrepreneurs) and Gig Gab (for Working Musicians) Podcasts
MGG Merch is Available!
Mac Geek Gab YouTube Page
Mac Geek Gab Live Calendar
This Week’s MGG Premium Contributors
MGG Apple Podcasts Reviews
feedback@macgeekgab.com
224-888-GEEK
Active MGG Sponsors and Coupon Codes List
BackBeat Media Podcast Network

May 19, 2025 • 1h 20min
Tab-itis Is Real...and It's OK!
Are you tired of struggling with Wi-Fi issues and tech frustrations? This episode of Mac Geek Gab has you covered with solutions to common problems and clever tips to enhance your tech experience.
Dive into a world of Wi-Fi troubleshooting as the Pete, Adam, and Dave discuss solutions for UPS power-up issues and explore ways to improve network connectivity. Learn how to use Siri to delete all alarms at once and discover a nifty trick for sharing text messages directly from your Apple Watch. The episode also tackles questions about syncing dock preferences and managing RAM usage with multiple browser tabs open.
But that’s not all! Get the scoop on the CenterCam 2.0, a tiny camera that hangs over your screen for better video calls. Plus, find out how to use smart plugs to solve power sequencing problems and explore options for creating a more efficient home office setup. Don’t get caught unprepared – tune in to this episode for a wealth of tech knowledge and practical solutions.
Ready to upgrade your tech game? Listen now and discover the tips and tricks that will make your digital life smoother and more efficient!
00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1090 for Monday, May 19th, 2025
May 19th: May Ray Day (or National Devil’s Food Cake Day)
Police Code 10-90 – Bank Alarm Going Off
MGG Monthly Giveaway – Win an eero Outdoor 7
00:02:56 We’ll be doing MGG Live at Macstock on Saturday, July 12th! Join us, and use our coupon code: MACGEEKGAB50 to save $50!
Quick Tips
00:00:01 Todd-QT-Use Siri to delete all your old alarms
00:04:32 QT-Easily Share (forward) a Message from your Watch
00:07:46 David-QT-Option-Drag for Persistent Finder Column Width Changes
00:08:40 John-QT-Adding A Spacer to your Dock!
defaults write com.apple.dock persistent-apps -array-add ‘{“tile-type”=”spacer-tile”;}’
00:11:20 Personalize ChatGPT to make it less of a people-pleaser
00:12:26 Mack-QT-Retrieve Wi-Fi Passwords from The Passwords App
00:15:39 Plume let me set up guest networks based on password, not just SSID
00:18:29 Tim-QT-Conference to Separate Phones to Aid in Hearing
00:20:00 SPONSOR: Insta360 X5 Camera. To bag a free invisible selfie stick worth US$24.99 with your purchase, head to store.insta360.com and use the promo code “mgg”, available for the first 30 purchases only.
Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared!
00:21:54 Jarry-Why does my Apple TV freeze when I start playback?
Speedtest app for Apple TV
Netflix-recommended internet speeds
Wi-Fi Explorer (and a shout-out for iStumbler)
NetSpot App – Map WiFi
00:35:21 Jedd-How can I set a Phone-Call Focus Mode?
00:39:42 SPONSOR: Quince. Elevate your closet, get free shipping, and 365 day returns at Quince.com/mgg.
MOAR Questions Answered
00:41:19 Javier-I deleted files but don’t see the free space
00:46:09 Christopher-Should I max out my RAM for…Safari?
Tab-itis is real…and it’s OK!
Quitter from Marco Arment
00:54:47 John-Connecting securely to my local NAS
01:03:38 Port-forwarding practices
01:06:04 SPONSOR: BBEdit, the power tool for text from Bare Bones Software; now with integrated Notebooks and extended language support.
Cool Stuff Found
01:07:28 CSF-Center Cam v2
01:11:19 Scott-CSF-1089–SyncTime to Sync your Dock .plist (and other files)
01:12:36 Craig-CSF-1089-Use Kasa Smart Plug to delay starting a UPS
01:16:05 Mark-CSF-1089-Use a Power Sequencer to keep from tripping circuits on startup
01:18:12 MGG 1090 Outtro
MGG Monthly Giveaway – eero Outdoor 7
Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly
Pilot Pete’s Aviation Podcast: So There I Was (for Aviation Enthusiasts)
The Debut Film Podcast – Adam’s new podcast!
Dave’s Business Brain (for Entrepreneurs) and Gig Gab (for Working Musicians) Podcasts
MGG Merch is Available!
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