Techlore Talks
Techlore
Techlore Talks brings you in-depth conversations with the experts at the forefront of privacy, security, and digital rights. Hosted by Henry Fisher, founder of Techlore and long-time digital rights educator, each episode features meaningful discussions with the people building, researching, and advocating for digital freedom. From cybersecurity researchers and privacy tool developers to open-source advocates and digital rights activists—if they're shaping how we protect ourselves online, they're on this show.Topics include:• Privacy tools and technologies• Cybersecurity threats and defenses• Open-source software and development• Surveillance and digital rights• Encryption and data protection• Tech policy and advocacy• Digital sovereignty and freedomJust real conversations with real experts. New episodes released regularly. Subscribe now and join the community fighting for digital freedom. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 17, 2026 • 1h 9min
It's Time for the VPN Industry to Innovate (Obscura Interview)
Discover the cutting-edge world of Obscura VPN and its unique trust-minimizing approach. Carl discusses how this innovative service can't log your activity, comparing it to traditional VPNs. Learn about QUIC's role in evading censorship and the benefits of multi-party relays that protect user identity. Hear insights on reproducible builds, the challenges of mobile apps, and why Mullvad is their preferred partner. Carl calls on the VPN industry to adopt open-source practices and trustless models for enhanced privacy.
9 snips
Jan 10, 2026 • 1h 21min
Why F-Droid Still Can't Get on iPhone (FSFE Lawyer Explains)
Lucas Lasota, a legal project manager with the Free Software Foundation Europe, dives deep into the implications of the Digital Markets Act. He explains how this regulation aims to dismantle Big Tech's stronghold by promoting interoperability and access for smaller apps. Lucas also critiques how the law overlooks small developers, sharing insights on Apple’s strict app policies. The conversation sheds light on the global impact of these regulatory changes and the ongoing fight for digital freedom and fair competition in the tech landscape.
13 snips
Jan 6, 2026 • 18min
Inside Ad Blocking: Interviews from the Ad Filtering Dev Summit
Anton Lazarev, an engineer at Brave, discusses their innovative native ad-blocking technology and privacy-centric AI features. He dives into the differences between browser and system-level ad protection. Peter Lowe, the maintainer of a legendary block list since 1997, shares insights on the creepy nature of tracking and the philosophy behind his meticulous curation of domains. Together, they illuminate the evolving landscape of ad blocking, its impact on privacy, and future trends that consumers should keep an eye on.
12 snips
Jan 1, 2026 • 60min
Is the World Too Dependent on American Tech? (Dutch Journalist Interview)
Marloes de Koning, a Dutch reporter at NRC with a tech focus, discusses the complexities of digital sovereignty and the heavy reliance on American technology. She shares insights on age verification, privacy risks, and the responsibilities of journalism in the digital age. Marloes emphasizes the importance of trustworthy news sources and shares her personal experiments with digital independence. The conversation delves into whether people truly care about privacy and how it intersects with rights, offering a thought-provoking look at our tech-driven world.
10 snips
Dec 10, 2025 • 1h 4min
Google’s New Policy is an “Extinction Event” (F-Droid Interview)
Join Marc Prud'hommeaux, a software developer and F-Droid board member, as he delves into the catastrophic implications of Google's new Developer Registration Program. He highlights how this policy threatens open-source app distribution and the very existence of F-Droid. Marc shares concrete actions individuals can take to combat this change and why all users should care about the fight for openness in app ecosystems. His insights on the balance between security, user privacy, and corporate control offer a compelling look into the future of mobile app distribution.
22 snips
Nov 22, 2025 • 1h 3min
Why This Security Expert Doesn't Use a Phone (Buskill Interview)
In this engaging discussion, Michael Altfield, a renowned software engineer and privacy advocate, shares insights on his groundbreaking Buskill project—a USB dead-man switch designed to protect sensitive data from theft. He recounts real-life incidents that inspired its development and discusses its benefits for travelers and high-risk professionals. Michael also explores privacy advocacy, the importance of robust security measures, and even why he chooses to live without a phone, all while emphasizing collective responsibility in protecting personal data.
5 snips
Nov 19, 2025 • 1h 49min
The Email Provider Google Doesn't Want You to Know About (Fastmail Interview)
Ricardo Signes, Chief Engineer at Fastmail, dives into the fragmented experience of Gmail and contrasts it with Fastmail’s streamlined approach. He discusses the outdated IMAP protocol and the modern JMAP, highlighting its potential for better performance and privacy. Ricardo talks about the challenges of end-to-end encryption in email and why seamless user experience often takes precedence. He also emphasizes the importance of good internet citizenship and how Fastmail supports transparency and user empowerment in the digital landscape.
12 snips
Nov 19, 2025 • 53min
Why Google Chrome Betrays Your Privacy (Firefox CTO Explains)
Bobby Holley, CTO of Firefox, brings over 17 years of experience in browser security and privacy to the discussion. He explains how Google Chrome collects user data for targeted ads, contrasting it with Firefox's privacy-first approach. Bobby dives into privacy features like enhanced tracking protection and how Firefox integrates Tor's privacy innovations. He also shares insights on the importance of browser independence, the challenges of AI, and the impact of regulations like the DMA on user choice. A thought-provoking chat on staying safe online!
12 snips
Oct 24, 2025 • 1h
Dumb Phones & Privacy: Digital Minimalism with Jose Briones
In this insightful discussion, Jose Briones, a YouTuber and advocate for digital minimalism, dives into why dumb phones might be the key to better privacy. He shares practical strategies for reducing screen time, emphasizing the importance of a mindset shift over simply swapping devices. Jose also highlights the value of offline activities for creativity and memory, and how to manage professional social media use without sacrificing personal well-being. His engaging tips make it clear that technology isn't the enemy—it's all about how we use it.
Oct 10, 2025 • 59min
From Coreboot to Qubes: Secure Hardware Deep Dive with NovaCustom
Wessel Klein Snakenborg, founder of NovaCustom, discusses crafting privacy-focused laptops with features like Coreboot firmware and Intel ME disabling. He emphasizes extensive hardware customization and open-source Linux options. The conversation dives into supply chain security practices, Qubes OS compatibility, and a commitment to repairability with a seven-year parts guarantee. Wessel also touches on future AMD support and shares insights on the challenges of competing with Big Tech, all while empowering users to reclaim control over their digital privacy.
