
Mac Geek Gab — Your Questions Answered, Tips Shared, Troubleshooting Assistance
Answers to your tech questions for your Apple devices and beyond. Dave Hamilton, Adam Christianson, and Pilot Pete come together weekly to answer your questions and discuss things of interest to Apple and Mac geeks, presenting them in ways that are both entertaining and informative for the average listener.
Latest episodes

May 6, 2024 • 1h 21min
Brick Walls and Brain Waves
In this week’s episode of Mac Geek Gab, you’re in for a treat with Pilot Pete and Dave Hamilton as they delve deep into the nuances of everyday tech. Starting off, learn a clever Quick Tip from Uncle Jamie on how to use Preview for not just viewing but also adding, reordering, and merging PDFs—a true multitasker’s dream tool. But that’s not all, discover how disabling WPA3 could rejuvenate your stubborn IoT devices, ensuring they connect without a hitch. Struggling with your VPN? They’ve got you covered with solutions to avoid duplicate AirDrop destinations and unblock your mail sending woes.
As the discussion heats up, Pete and Dave tackle some quirky tech challenges that might have you nodding in agreement or scratching your head. Did you know your 2.4GHz network penetrates brick walls more effectively than higher frequencies? And when it comes to sending sensitive documents securely, they suggest top tools like Tresorit Send and Dropbox Send to keep your private info under wraps. So, as you navigate these tech waters, remember: “Don’t Get Caught” unprepared. Tune into Mac Geek Gab for these insights and more, ensuring you stay one step ahead in the digital realm.
00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1036 for Monday, May 6th, 2024
May 6: National Beverage Day
Quick Tips
00:00:01 Blocktek-QT-Use Caps Lock as a Shutdown Notification Indicator
00:03:41 Nescafe Milk Foamer
Throat Coat Tea
00:05:50 Uncle Jamie-QT-Add, reorder, merge PDFs and more with Preview
PDFExpert (available with a student discount with a .edu)
00:08:40 QT-Disable WPA3 on Your Network. Your IOT Devices Will Thank You
Skylight Frame
00:18:55 Missing Adam Today
00:19:44 Phil-QT-VPNs can add duplicate AirDrop destinations
00:21:37 StephrabNYC18-Turn off your VPN when using Ticketmaster
00:24:59 PP- Sending Mail Getting Blocked… Receive OK – It was “TailScale” VPN
Tailscale
WhatIsMyIp.com
Wireguard VPN
00:32:15 Can I Use Two VPNs Simultaneously?
Sponsors
00:35:56 SPONSOR: LinkedIn Jobs. Go to LinkedIn.com/MGG and post your first job for free!
00:37:34 SPONSOR: Backblaze. Get a fully-featured no risk free trial at Backblaze.com/mgg. Go there, play with it, and start protecting yourself from potential bad times. Start Today!
00:39:03 SPONSOR: BetterHelp. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/GEEKGAB and get on your way to being your best self.
00:40:22 Pete Outsmarted Himself!
00:42:26 What the Heck Happened With Our Reset Apple ID Passwords?
Making SWAGs Again
Send Us Your SWAGs
Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared!
00:54:49 JT Ray-Why Do I have Both Local and iCloud Desktop Folders?
00:57:00 Why Do I have Two Mail Accounts Listed?
01:02:23 JP-Duplicate File Finder?
Gemini from MacPaw
01:07:40 James-Why do I need to connect IOT at 2.4GHz?
2.4GHz Goes Through Brick Walls Better Than Your Head
01:14:06 Matt-What’s the Best Way to Send Sensitive Documents to Tax Preparers?
Tresorit Send
Dropbox Send
Box.com
Adobe File Send
01:18:13 MGG 1036 Outtro
Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly
Pilot Pete’s Aviation Podcast: So There I Was (for Aviation Enthusiasts)
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
The Mac Geek Gab iPhone app
Active MGG Sponsors and Coupon Codes List
BackBeat Media Podcast Network

Apr 29, 2024 • 1h 21min
Don’t Get Caught With Your Tech Down
This week on Mac Geek Gab 1035, dive into a treasure trove of quick tips and cool finds with your favorite tech trio, Pilot Pete, Adam Christianson, and Dave Hamilton. Discover how to leverage Siri to unearth unread messages or take hands-free notes—even with paint on your hands! Learn how to utilize smart plugs for automating troublesome tech at home, like that stubborn old Sonos or garage door opener. Did you know that bright LED bulbs could be interfering with your Wi-Fi? Keep this in mind to avoid tech hiccups. And remember, don’t get caught with your tech down on Email Debt Forgiveness Day!
In the Cool Stuff Found segment, explore the potential of iOS’s ChatGPT app’s voice interaction, and consider Pandoc for effortless format conversions. Curious about running your 2019 iMac from an external USB SSD? There’s a tip for that too. Syncing issues between Mac and iPhone? Get the fix here. And don’t miss the scoop on eero’s latest networking solutions. Make your digital life smoother and stay ahead—after all, “Don’t Get Caught” means being prepared with the right knowledge from Mac Geek Gab.
00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1035 for Monday, April 29th, 2024
April 29: Viral Video Day
Quick Tips
00:00:01 QT-Use Siri to find Unread Messages When “Unread Messages” won’t show you anything but Messages is still badged
00:03:14 Paul-QT-Hey, Siri Take a Note… / Pause (with paint on hands and airbuds in!)
feedback@macgeekgab.com
00:06:00 Joe-QT-1034-Get Bookmarks Right From Safari’s Search Bar…and Have Siri Remind You At a Place
00:11:04 QT-Use a Smart Plug and automation to restart pesky devices (older Sonos, MyQ Garage Door Opener, More)
00:13:53 CSF-Meross HomeKit Compatible Garage Door Opener
00:15:56 Allison-CSF-Tailwind iQ3 garage door remote
Meross Smart Plug
00:23:26 Uncle Jamie-CSF-ratGDO for controlling your garage door openers
00:25:08 Tim-PSA-1033-Bright LED Garage Light Bulbs Can Create Wi-Fi Interference
00:27:10 QT-Email Debt Forgiveness Day coming on April 30th
ReplyAll Podcast
Sponsors
00:28:50 SPONSOR: Ecamm Live is the all-in-one live streaming and video production studio for Mac Get one month free of Ecamm Live using promo code ‘macgeekgab’ at checkout.
00:30:35 Don’t Get Caught With Your Tech Down
Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared!
00:32:40 UpsideDownFoodPyramid-How can I sync Apple Photos with Google Photos?
00:34:12 OurStanley-Can I run my 2019 iMac from External USB SSD?
00:39:29 DanWieder-Messages Not Syncing Between Mac and iPhone
00:48:07 MIke-Should we increase the number of things we learn each episode?
00:53:27 Log the name of people in your photos
Show Business
00:57:09 MGG Premium Listener Contribution Appreciation Moment
Fountain.fm
Cool Stuff Found
01:00:18 PPete-CSF-iOS ChatGPT App’s Voice Interaction
01:03:35 Chicago Tom-CSF-1027–Pandoc to convert between different text formats
01:05:15 eero Max 7 Review and eero Pro 6E, too
01:12:43 Bombshell, the Hedy Lamarr Story
01:14:35 Paul-CSF-iCalBuddy to Access Calendar from Terminal
icalbuddy -iep datetime,title eventsToday+14
01:16:12 Eliot-CSF-1034–TouchRetouch for cleaning up photos on iPhone (also Elbert, Allison, and more)
HitPaw
01:19:11 MGG 1035 Outtro
Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly
Pilot Pete’s Aviation Podcast: So There I Was (for Aviation Enthusiasts)
Dave’s Business Brain (for Entrepreneurs) and Gig Gab (for Working Musicians) Podcasts
MGG Merch is Available!
MGG Live Calendar
MGG Apple Podcasts Reviews
224-888-GEEK
The Mac Geek Gab iPhone app
Active MGG Sponsors and Coupon Codes List
BackBeat Media Podcast Network

7 snips
Apr 22, 2024 • 1h 29min
Be(a)ware Opinionated Apps
In this week’s Mac Geek Gab, Adam Christianson and Dave Hamilton dive into a plethora of practical tips and deep dives, tailored just for you. Discover quick tips like pressing Command-back in Safari to open the previous page in a new tab or using Fn-Return to approximate the Enter key, enhancing your navigation skills seamlessly. They didn’t miss discussing event highlights such as KansasFest and MacStock VIII, bringing communities together in celebration of technology. For those looking to streamline their work with tools, they covered using Freeform with Zoom to save time and the multifunctional Dash Text Editor for your coding needs.
The duo didn’t stop there; they shared insights on using focus modes to boost productivity and various shortcuts for creating PDFs across your devices. Ever thought about removing those pesky power lines from your photos effortlessly? They’ve got solutions!
And if your digital life feels a bit cluttered, they provided solutions for syncing issues across devices with apps like BusyCal and CardHop. Remember, in the digital world, it’s crucial to stay efficient and prepared. So, don’t get caught unawares—tune in to Mac Geek Gab and elevate your tech game.
00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1034 for Monday, April 22nd, 2024
April 22: National I.T. Service Provider Day
Quick Tips
00:00:01 Dimitar-QT-Press Command-back in Safari to open previous page in a new tab
00:03:11 Nige-QT-1030-Use Fn-Return to Approximate the Enter key
00:04:45 KansasFest
MacStock VIII
00:08:07 Todd-QT-1032-Create a manual Birthdays Calendar
00:10:36 Chicago Tom-QT-Use Freeform with Zoom to save yourself an extra session
Mac Power Users
feedback@macgeekgab.com
00:13:30 Rob-QT-1030-Use Page up (and down!) in QuickLook, too
00:14:43 Dave from Arlington-QT-Bookmark Tab Groups on both Mac and iPhone
Dash Text Editor
00:20:12 Using Focus Modes
00:23:36 Bill-QT-1033-Shortcuts for Creating PDFs in Safari and System-Wide
Todd-QT-1033-Siri can also help you Scan a Document
Sponsors
00:26:07 SPONSOR: Zocdoc, the easiest way to find a great doctor and instantly book an appointment. Sign up for FREE at Zocdoc.com/MGG and download the app today.
Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared!
00:28:35 Barb-GC-How best to remove power lines from Photos?
PhotoShop
Pixelmator Pro
Luminar AI will remove power lines! (at 01:22:26)
00:34:23 Darrin-What’s the fastest way to get to Safari Favorites on iPhone?
Long Press is The Universal Tip
00:37:04 Bob-Why is it Spring and yet my Contacts are still Freezing?
CardHop
Fantastical
00:47:01 Todd-Fixing Reminders Syncing between Mac and iPhone
BusyCal
00:52:25 Ask Siri to Add to a Note?
00:53:41 Michael-Which Synology DiskStation, a DS423+ or DS923+?
00:58:18 Read caching vs. Write Caching on DiskStation
01:01:31 Jeff-How is Thunderbird?
Spark Email
Be(a)ware of Opinionated Apps
01:12:25 Fred-I can’t add Mail to archive folders
MailSteward
Synology Mail Server vs. MailPlus Server
01:23:46 MGG 1034 Outtro
Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly
Follow us on Mastodon
Mac Geek Gab on Mastodon
Adam Christianson on Mastodon
Dave Hamilton on Mastodon
Pilot Pete on Mastodon
Mona for Mastodon (for Mac, iPhone, iPad)
Adam Christianson on X/Twitter
Pilot Pete’s Aviation Podcast: So There I Was (for Aviation Enthusiasts)
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
The Mac Geek Gab iPhone app
Active MGG Sponsors and Coupon Codes List
BackBeat Media Podcast Network

Apr 15, 2024 • 1h 22min
What Have I Put Between Me and the Internet?
In this week’s episode of Mac Geek Gab, discover how to effortlessly scan documents using your iPhone’s camera, a lifesaver tip straight from KiwiGraham-QT. Having trouble with hotel Wi-Fi? Larry’s woes might sound familiar; Adam Christionson, Pilot Pete, and Dave Hamilton will help you learn how to tackle uncooperative hotel networks with tools like GLi.Net’s MT3000 Travel Router and a few savvy browser tricks. Remember, when you’re on the go, never let your tech guard down—“Don’t Get Caught” without a solid connection!
Meanwhile, boost your Mac’s functionality with tips on optimizing Wi-Fi performance and remapping FN key settings using Keyboard Maestro, BetterTouchTool, or Keysmith. Pilot Pete also drops a nugget on reviving an unresponsive Siri—because when technology doesn’t behave, you need to know how to whip it back into shape. Plus, Adam touches on the ever-important topic of device security. Wondering if you need antivirus for your iOS devices? Stay tuned for straightforward advice and why sometimes, simpler is safer when it comes to protecting your digital life.
Press play and enjoy, folks!
00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1033 for Monday, April 15th, 2024
April 15: National Anime Day
Opening QT:
00:00:01 KiwiGraham-QT Use iPhone Camera to Scan a Document to Files
GeniusScan
00:03:33 Modified AMJ to transport horses on an airplane
Always Extra Horsepower
Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared!
00:08:43 Larry-My Mac didn’t want to join the hotel Wi-Fi
http://neverssl.com/
http://captive.apple.com/
GLi.Net MT3000 Travel Router
Type thisisunsafe or badidea into Chrome to bypass security warnings
When PIA is a PITA
What Have I Put Between Me and the Internet?
00:22:56 Jim-Recently Slower WiFi performance
Wi-Fi Explorer
00:30:43 Dean-How can I remap FN key settings?
Keyboard Maestro
BetterTouchTool
Keysmith
00:34:55 PorthosJon-Does SMS Still Get Through with Airplane Mode and Wi-Fi Calling?
Minternational Plans Are Permanently Half Price
Sponsors
00:41:45 SPONSOR: Backblaze. Get a fully-featured no risk free trial at Backblaze.com/mgg. Go there, play with it, and start protecting yourself from potential bad times. Start Today!
00:43:33 SPONSOR: Coda, the one Doc to rule them all. Bring your text and tables together! Sign up at Coda.io/mgg for FREE.
MOAR Questions (and hopefully MOAR Answers!)
00:45:23 PilotPete-QT How to Fix Siri When Siri is UnResponsive
00:48:22 Steve-Any advice for repairing a Family Sharing disaster?
tcook@apple.com
00:56:05 David-Do I need AntiVirus/AntiMalware apps on my iPhone or iPad?
Apple Arcade
01:03:28 Apple says Spatial Computing comes to Business with Apple Vision Pro
01:13:52 F-35 Augmented Reality Helmet
01:15:03 Ari-QT-Different M3 Laptops Support Different External Monitor Configs
01:16:09 Show Business
MGG Premium Listener Contribution Appreciation Moment
Fountain.fm
01:19:45 MGG 1033 Outtro
Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly
Pilot Pete’s Aviation Podcast: So There I Was (for Aviation Enthusiasts)
Dave’s Business Brain (for Entrepreneurs) and Gig Gab (for Working Musicians) Podcasts
MGG Apple Podcasts Reviews
feedback@macgeekgab.com
224-888-GEEK
The Mac Geek Gab iPhone app
Active MGG Sponsors and Coupon Codes List
BackBeat Media Podcast Network

Apr 8, 2024 • 1h 22min
Grow Your Geek: Plant These Tips In Your Digital Soil
From mastering the art of batch renaming directly in the Mac Finder, pinning essential notes for easy access, to safeguarding your digital life by periodically checking your Mac’s System Settings for Privacy & Security, this episode is a treasure trove of hacks. Adam Christianson and Dave Hamilton dish out indispensable Quick Tips and Answers to your burning questions, ensuring you’re always one step ahead.
They even delve into the quandary of upgrading from an Intel iMac, the lifespan of M1 Macs, and whether it’s time to consider a Synology DiskStation for sharing those precious memories. Remember, “Don’t Get Caught” unprepared in the digital world.
In the back forty, discover Cool Stuff Found with recommendations like stash.new for effortlessly shareable documents, the Anker Travel Power Strip for power on the go, and innovative solutions like Sleepwatcher for a seamless Wi-Fi experience upon waking your Mac.
The episode rounds out with software gems like Text Blaze, Text Expander, and Keyboard Maestro to turbocharge your typing efficiency. Whether you’re pondering a hardware upgrade, looking to streamline your digital workflow, or just in search of the next great gadget, this episode packs a punch with actionable insights and expert advice to keep you ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving tech landscape.
00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1032 for Monday, April 8th, 2024
April 8: Trading Cards for Grown-Ups Day
The MGG Discord Server is Live!
The MGG Merch Store is Live!
Quick Tips
00:00:01 QT-Batch Rename Right In The Mac Finder
00:04:25 PCUnix & Steve Hammond-QT-Notes allows Pinned Notes
00:06:50 Michael-QT-Use your iPhone and…Don’t Get Lost!
00:10:52 Alex-QT-Set a secondary alert to remind of important birthdays
00:15:02 Uncle Jamie-QT-Drag a Document’s Title Bar Icon to Move or Share like the Finder
00:16:34 QT-On your Mac, periodically check System Settings > Privacy & Security > All options to make sure the apps you want approved STAY approved (especially Accessibility, Full Disk Access, and Screen & System Audio Recording)
Sponsors
00:22:50 SPONSOR: LinkedIn Jobs. Go to LinkedIn.com/MGG and post your first job for free!
00:24:13 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
00:25:52 Andrew-Do I Need To Upgrade my Intel iMac?
00:41:28 Hal-How long will M1 Macs be Supported by Apple?
Apple’s Vintage and Obsolete Terminology
00:45:23 Jim-Should I Get a Synology DiskStation to share my videos and photos with friends and family?
Synology DS423+
UGreen NASync
00:56:17 Digging into Adam’s Tech
Chronosync Network
01:00:47 PSA for Upgrading to a New DiskStation
Cool Stuff Found
01:08:18 Dave-CSF-stash.new for creating easily-sharable documents
01:10:24 PorthosJon-CSF-Anker Travel Power Strip, the 140W Version
01:13:48 Ben-Use Sleepwatcher to build a Wi-Fi Reset on Wake Script
01:15:27 Text Blaze for Text Expansion
Text Expander
Keyboard Maestro
01:17:57 MGG 1032 Outtro
Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly
Dave Hamilton on Mastodon
Adam Christianson on X/Twitter
Pilot Pete’s Aviation Podcast: So There I Was (for Aviation Enthusiasts)
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
The Mac Geek Gab iPhone app
Active MGG Sponsors and Coupon Codes List
BackBeat Media Podcast Network

4 snips
Apr 1, 2024 • 1h 23min
Why Don't They Tell Us That Exists?
Discover tech treasures like force-quitting multiple apps and linking notes with >>. Tips on customizing Home Screen, text parsing with ChatGPT, and secure data storage on iCloud. Explore disappearing apps, DVD readers, managing digital files. Stay ahead with MacScan3, Spatial Viewer app, constant curiosity. Enhance sound balancing on StreamYard, personal connections in business. Jam-packed insights on tech tweaks, security hacks, and efficiency tips.

Mar 25, 2024 • 1h 20min
MOAR POWER...To Travel?
This week’s Mac Geek Gab episode, featuring Pilot Pete, Adam Christianson, and Dave Hamilton, is jam-packed with actionable advice for all things Mac. Kick off with a life-hack: always snap a photo of your airport parking spot to find it easily upon return. Discover the convenience of QuickLook by simply holding the Space Bar, and dive into customizing your Mac experience with tools like Karabiner-Elements and Keyboard Maestro for remapping keys and automating tasks. The episode doesn’t stop there; it dives deep into optimizing your home network with mesh systems and the latest in Wi-Fi technology, comparing Wi-Fi 6, 6E, and the futuristic Wi-Fi 7, ensuring your setup doesn’t get left in the digital dust.
When it comes to safeguarding your digital life, “Don’t Get Caught” unprepared. The team covers the importance of using your mic’s mute feature wisely, backs up data with Carbon Copy Cloner, and secures your network with the latest and greatest tools. Tips on preventing iCloud sync mishaps with the .nosync option, and a discussion on whether antivirus software is a necessity for Mac users, provide you with the knowledge to protect your devices and personal information. Every minute is filled with insights and tips designed to empower you to get the most out of your Mac and network setup, without getting caught by common pitfalls.
00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1030 for Monday, March 25th, 2024
March 25: Tolkien Reading Day
The MGG Discord Server is Live!
The MGG Merch Store is Live!
Quick Tips
00:00:01 QT-When parking at the airport, take a pic of your parking location and immediately Favorite it.
00:06:29 Simon-QT-A QuickLook QuickTip by holding the Space Bar
00:08:52 Doug-1028-Remapping Command Key and Automating Zoom Calls
Karabiner-Elements
FileMaker
Better Touch Tool
Keyboard Maestro
Display Menu
Conference Call in Real Life
00:15:09 Using your microphone’s mute switch versus Zoom’s mute switch…the pros and cons.
00:19:00 Bob-QT-MGG 1026 – Backing up family laptops
Carbon Copy Cloner
Tailscale
00:21:42 Martin-QT-1029-Use .nosync to keep folders from syncing to iCloud
Sponsors
00:27:53 SPONSOR: Backblaze. Get a fully-featured no risk free trial at Backblaze.com/mgg. Go there, play with it, and start protecting yourself from potential bad times. Start Today!
00:29:46 SPONSOR: Manscaped. Nothing like a little spring cleaning in your pants. Get 20% off and Free Shipping with code MGG at Manscaped.com
00:31:28 SPONSOR: Zocdoc, the easiest way to find a great doctor and instantly book an appointment. Sign up for FREE at Zocdoc.com/MGG and download the app today.
Networking Questions Answered and Tips Shared!
00:33:16 Kalle-How best to upgrade my network to mesh and add Ethernet?
ASUS AiMesh
TP-SG108 Switch
UniFi Express
UniFi Dream Router
TP-Link Archer
00:51:31 Clif-Should I get Wi-Fi 6, 6E, or 7?
eero Max 7
TP-Link Wi-Fi 7
01:06:07 Adam-1026-Don’t forget about routers that can act like Time Capsules
MOAR Power!
Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared!
01:09:29 GC-Why does Siri ask about my Google Devices (that I don’t have)?
01:10:07 Jim-Do I Need Antivirus Software?
Malwarebytes (in manual mode)
Apple’s Firewall
Apple’s System Integrity Protection (SIP)
CleanMyMac X’s Malware Removal
01:17:37 MGG 1030 Outtro
Mixed Live with SoundDesk for macOS
Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly
Pilot Pete’s Aviation Podcast: So There I Was (for Aviation Enthusiasts)
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
The Mac Geek Gab iPhone app
Active MGG Sponsors and Coupon Codes List
BackBeat Media Podcast Network

Mar 18, 2024 • 1h 20min
Everything Was a Sock Account
Tackle syncing issues on iPhone’s Photos app and introduce a life-changing Conference Focus mode to streamline your digital life as Pilot Pete, Adam Christianson, and Dave Hamilton kick off this week’s Mac Geek Gab. They don’t stop there; they reveal how to free up disk space by removing specific log files, simplify photo attachments on Mac, and navigate Terminal’s Help menu like a pro with tools like tldr-pages and the Dash app. Remember, “Don’t Get Caught” unprepared in your digital life.
When it comes to addressing listener questions, your three favorite geeks don’t hold back. They delve into the nuances of Desktop & Documents syncing with iCloud, the necessity of iPhone backups, and even brainstorm a DIY proximity sensor for hotel rooms using Raspberry Pi for that extra peace of mind.
Video sharing solutions for private family moments get a spotlight, recommending platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, and Rumble. For the audiophiles, the discussion shifts to choosing the right external speakers for Macs, with nods to AudioEngine A2+ and HomePod Mini. Plus, they share cool finds like the Brane X smart speaker from SXSW and innovative tech for local network browsing and sound mixing, proving that when it comes to tech, staying curious and informed is key.
Press play and enjoy!
00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1029 for Monday, March 18th, 2024
March 18: National Sloppy Joe Day (also Awkward Moments Day)
Quick Tips
00:00:01 PorthosJon-QT-Manually resume Photos Syncing on your iPhone
00:04:39 Create yourself a Conference Focus mode
00:13:25 rnDoug-QT-Remove specific /var/log files to free up disk space
00:15:56 Ben & PorthosJon-QT-Attach Photos the Easier Way(s) on Your Mac
00:17:34 MyFaceIsTooBig-QT-Use the Terminal’s Help menu to see (some) well-formatted man pages
brew install tldr
tldr-pages (for iPad and Mx Macs)
Dash app (in Setapp)
Sponsors
00:21:30 SPONSOR: Factor. Save time with Factor’s fresh, never-frozen meals, ready to heat and eat in just 2 minutes! Head to FactorMeals.com/MGG50 with code MGG50 to get 50% off your first box.
00:23:10 SPONSOR: LinkedIn Jobs. Go to LinkedIn.com/MGG and post your first job for free!
Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared!
00:24:39 Michael-Do you use Desktop & Documents Syncing with iCloud?
Hazel from Noodlesoft
00:30:50 Andrew-Do I really need to backup my iPhone, though?
iMazing
00:40:03 GC-Proximity sensor for hotel room so you know when housekeeping has come?
Beryl Travel Router
littleBits (Raspberry Pi)
Sponsor
00:46:05 SPONSOR: Coda, the one Doc to rule them all. Bring your text and tables together! Sign up at Coda.io/mgg for FREE.
More Questions!
00:47:46 Michael-How can I privately share videos with my family and non-Apple friends?
YouTube
Vimeo
Rumble
PartySnapper from Boinx
00:57:36 Tom-Which External Speakers Should I Use with My Mac?
AudioEngine A2+
HomePod Mini
Cool Stuff Found
01:04:51 CSF @ SXSW–Brane Audio Brane X smart speaker with tons of smooth low end
01:07:52 2ShortPlanks-CSF-1027-Using Flame for Bonjour Browsing of Local Network
01:11:00 CSF SoundDesk from LoudLab
Loopback
01:19:27 MGG 1029 Outtro
Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly
Adam Christianson on X/Twitter
Pilot Pete’s Aviation Podcast: So There I Was (for Aviation Enthusiasts)
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
The Mac Geek Gab iPhone app
Active MGG Sponsors and Coupon Codes List
BackBeat Media Podcast Network

Mar 11, 2024 • 1h 24min
Put That In Your Tinfoil Hat and Smoke It
Dive into cool tech like an AI image generator and Karabiner-Elements for Mac keyboard customization. Enhance security with DNS over HTTPS, explore tools like Particulars and Vasco Translator. Manage your smart home with HomeLog, find deals with CNET Shopping Extension, and track AirPods' battery with AirBuddy. Get quick tips for digital life and solve tech mysteries with listener questions.

Mar 4, 2024 • 1h 27min
Your RATGOCs Are Here
In this week’s episode of Mac Geek Gab with Pilot Pete, Adam Christianson, and Dave Hamilton, the trio dives deep into a plethora of tech tips that could revolutionize your digital lifestyle. Kicking things off with a savvy reminder from Craig about opting for Apple Engraving while preserving your device’s resale value, the conversation quickly moves to the underrated utility of Hot Corners and the magic of slide typing on an iPad. Notably, Peter brings a game-changer with BackBlaze’s data recovery solution, emphasizing its free USB restoration service.
For the aquatic adventurers, a quick tweak to prevent your Apple Watch Ultra from prematurely entering Depth mode could save your battery life. The episode also sheds light on miscellaneous quick fixes like using the Notes app for storing recipes and the significance of tracking IP address reservations to maintain your home network’s harmony.
The discussion seamlessly transitions to addressing listener queries, ranging from connecting Thunderbolt displays to Windows laptops, to changing iCloud email passwords, and even dissecting an unusual audio bug affecting your Mac’s left-right balance.
The hosts share insights into creating compelling show art using DALL-E prompts, underlining the importance of creativity in the tech space.
As the conversation wraps up, a critical reminder to safeguard your hearing steals the spotlight, with recommendations for products like Eargasm and Loop Earplugs to prevent auditory damage.
Throughout, the catchphrase “Don’t Get Caught” weaves its way into the narrative, serving as a clever nod to staying ahead in the fast-paced world of technology without falling prey to common pitfalls.
Chapters/Timestamps/Stuff mentioned:
00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1027 for Monday, March 4th, 2024
March 4: International DM/GM Day
Quick Tips
00:00:01 Craig-QT-Apple Engraving that Doesn’t Lower Resale Value
00:03:51 Andrew-QT-Don’t forget about Hot Corners
StreamDeck
00:08:12 Harvey-QT-Slide typing in an iPad
00:11:42 Peter-QT-BackBlaze Saves the Day & USB Service is “Free” –
00:13:12 QT-Keep your Apple Watch Ultra from going into Depth mode (and burning battery) when casually swimming: Settings > General > Auto-Launch > Threshold When Submerged > At 3ft
Also “Background App Refresh” -> TONS of Apps working!
Sponsors
00:19:39 SPONSOR: Backblaze. Get a fully-featured no risk free trial at Backblaze.com/mgg. Go there, play with it, and start protecting yourself from potential bad times. Start Today!
00:21:22 SPONSOR: LinkedIn Jobs. Go to LinkedIn.com/MGG and post your first job for free!
MOAR Quick Tips
00:22:42 JT Ray-QT-1026-Other UDP or Force Restart Fixes App Icons (maybe it’s like a Safe Mode restart?)
00:26:37 Todd-QT-1026-For recipes I just use Notes
Just The Recipe
Ulysses
Markdown
Marked App (available in Setapp)
David Sparks Markdown Fieldguide
WYSIWYG And You Have Our Sympathies
00:35:00 Jim-QT-Find Your Synology NAS Drive when network changes occur.
00:37:42 Tracking your IP address reservations at home
DOCSIS Modem Interface at 192.168.100.1
00:43:12 Pete’s new T-Mobile Home Internet
Sponsors
00:47:47 SPONSOR: Parallels. Run Windows on any Mac—Intel or Apple silicon—and experience a seamless integration between operating systems. Use code MGG15 for 15% off!
Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared!
00:49:41 Chris-Thunderbolt Display on Windows Laptop
00:54:10 Mace-How to Change iCloud eMail Password?
01:00:04 Michael-Thoughts on this audio “bug”?
Balance Lock
SoundSource
01:05:57 Why does the volume change when I’m listening to podcasts on my iPhone?
01:09:06 Jason-What DALL-E Prompts are used to create show art? ChatGPT
MGG 1009 with the Goat Rodeo
01:16:25 CSF-Mirai Next Gen Speaker
01:18:00 Don’t get caught with damaged hearing
Eargasm
Soundbrenner Minuendo
Loop Earplugs
Sensaphonics DB Check Pro
01:25:54 MGG 1027 Outtro
Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly
Pilot Pete’s Aviation Podcast: So There I Was (for Aviation Enthusiasts)
Dave’s Business Brain (for Entrepreneurs) and Gig Gab (for Working Musicians) Podcasts
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