This Week in Tech with Jeanne Destro: Recent Episodes
Jeanne Destro
Another day, another data breach–or so I thought.
But even though there have been a lot of other really big data breaches over the past few years; hearing about the one perpetrated recently by a hacker called USDoD, gave me pause.
As reported by Bloomberg Law; it is possible they stole the Social Security numbers of every American, along with other personally sensitive information from a total of nearly 3 billion people in the US, UK, and Canada. This occurred in December 2023, when they cracked the defenses of National Public Data, which is a data broker offering personal information to employers, private investigators, staffing agencies and others doing background checks.
With that in mind, along with the knowledge that in June 2023, the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles warned about an identity theft scam using stolen driver's license information, I began to wonder; do we need some new form of identification?
To find out, I contacted Detective Troy Looney of the Akron Police Department's Financial Crimes Unit.
He is a subject matter expert in several Criminal Justice Field disciplines, such as Internet Investigations, Digital Forensics, Cybercrime, and Marketing, and has a doctorate in Organizational Management/Leadership, a Master of Science in Internet Marketing, and a Bachelor of Arts in Business/Marketing.
Looney is currently a Senior Lecturer at the University of Akron, teaching several courses in the College of Applied Sciences Department. Courses include Digital Forensics, Cybercrime, Digital and Scientific Evidence, File System Forensic Analysis, and Computer Forensic Methods II.
Listen now:
Although Wall Street Analysts, Stockbrokers, and Traders already use sophisticated computer programming to help them make what is in some case dizzyingly vast sums of money; rapidly developing Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools could vastly change the way they do their jobs.
On the other hand; they could also completely replace a lot of those jobs, leaving the people doing them today, out of work and wondering how to get back in the game.
That in fact, is a scenario that is going to play out for billions of workers in all sorts of different fields over the next five to ten years, according to AI Developer, Professor, and Author, David Shrier. I talked to him last week about his new book “Welcome to AI: A Human Guide To Artificial Intelligence”, in which he predicts that within five to ten years; unemployment in the US and other countries could hit 30 to 50 percent. (To listen to that interview, click here).
Obviously; that is not the kind of blow that the US, or any other economy could absorb without either buckling, or at least being severely crippled for time, without some sort of serious intervention. He talked about the need for government to step in with a safety net solution, like Universal Basic Income, and large-scale programs to retrain employees so they can work with, and not try to compete against, AI.
With that in mind; I approached Kent State University Finance Professor, David Pelleg, about how they adapting to the new and at this point, still nascent technology, so that when their students who may be headed to jobs on Wall Street after graduation, will have the kind of AI-related skills they need to grow and prosper, despite the major changes that lie ahead.
Imagine if the outrage Apple stirred up this week over the ad showing their super thin new Ipad Pro "crushing" images representing art and music, amplified billions of times over. Imagine that instead of just crushing just digital images of human creativity, another tech creation; artificial intelligence, actually crushes our entire world economy, by eliminating 30 to 50 percent of all jobs, leaving millions of people, including today's top earners, in the dust, on the dole, and in despair. Then, imagine another reality, and in this one; all the boring bits of your job disappear, and you are left free to concentrate on the creative bits, with the time and freedom to innovate, and collaborate in new ways that could usher in a new age of prosperity. Now, imagine that you get to choose, but you have to do it right now. What would you do? How could you choose>? Who could you ask for help? These are the kinds of questions that our guest today, David Shrier, attempts to answer in his new book, "Welcome to AI" A Human Guide to Artificial Intelligence". Find out more. Listen now. David Shrier is a globally recognized author and expert on technology-driven innovation. He is a Professor of Practice, AI and Innovation, at Imperial College Business School, cohead of the Trusted AI Alliance at Imperial College London, Academic Director of the Imperial College Centre for Digital Transformation, and Managing Director of venture studio Visionary Future. He previously held a dual appointment at MIT and the University of Oxford. Shrier has advised public companies, private enterprise, and more than a hundred governments on fields such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and financial technology. In addition, he has launched multiple AI-based university spinouts.
CNN posted an intriguing story this week, about how several voting machine manufacturers are conducting "stress tests", to uncover possible flaws that might need to be fixed before the upcoming 2024 election.
While that was of course, welcome news; it did make me wonder just how secure voting machines really are, in general, and what cybersecurity experts do to ensure they stay in tip-top shape.
So, I asked Dr. John Nicholas, who many people in our area will remember as a Professor teaching Cybersecurity at the University of Akron for many years, but who also just recently; began his new job as the Director of the Center for Information and Communication Sciences, at Ball State University, in Muncie, Indiana.
Listen now, to learn not only about the machines, but also about the people who work behind the scenes to ensure our votes are counted accurately, and without interference.
Imagine being able to fly to LA for lunch, have a business meeting, and then be back home in time for dinner.
It could happen, if a research project currently underway at NASA Glenn Research Center in Cleveland is successful in demonstrating that a new, high tech airplane can break the sound barrier without causing the noisy and destructive sonic booms that helped end commercial supersonic air travel in 2003.
Listen now to our conversation with the Deputy Project Manager for the commercial supersonic technology project at NASA Glenn, Peggy Cornell, and with Walsh University President, Dr. Tim Collins.
Cornell's background includes hands-on experience with jet engines, test engineering expertise in the effort to power space missions, and leadership roles in aeronautics, she has demonstrated exceptional and sustained contributions to aeronautics and space. In addition, she has more than 28 years of experience at NASA, most recently as an integral part of leadership teams supporting commercial supersonics, electrified aircraft, electric vertical takeoff/landing vehicles, unmanned aircraft systems, and other groundbreaking areas.
Collins, who heads the North Canton-based Walsh University, is also a former Aviation technology researcher at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory , and US Air Force fighter pilot. He has more than 4,000 flying hours, including over 260 combat hours, as a command pilot in a variety of unmanned and manned fighter, tanker, reconnaissance, and command and control aircraft. He is a U.S. Air Force Command Pilot, a military parachutist, and is a credentialed Board President for both aviation Safety Investigation Boards and Accident Investigation Boards.
We'll explore the history of supersonic flight, including the iconic Concorde Airliner, and find out what NASA is doing that they believe will completely revolutionize air travel. out what NASA is doing that they believe will completely revolutionize air travel.
What if your insurance company could use your DNA to raise your rates if they think you might get cancer someday? Or, what if a foreign adversary, like China, for example; could use DNA to reveal the true identity of all of our spies?
Think that's farfetched? Well, Akron-based journalist, author, and cold-case DNA expert, James Renner doesn't think so.
Find out why, as I explore advances in cold case DNA technology, and talk about the how the science we use to catch killers, could one day catch all of us in invisible data nets, violating our privacy in ways we can only barely imagine, today.
What if your insurance company could use your DNA to raise your rates if they think you might get cancer someday? Or, what if a foreign adversary, like China, for example; could use DNA to reveal the true identity of all of our spies?
Think that's farfetched? Well, Akron-based journalist, author, and cold-case DNA expert, James Renner doesn't think so.
Find out why, as I explore advances in cold case DNA technology, and talk about the how the science we use to catch killers, could one day catch all of us in invisible data nets, violating our privacy in ways we can only barely imagine, today.
Thanks to a $450 thousand dollar grant from the National Science Foundation, Kent State University will offer a new summer robotics program open to undergraduate students from all over the country. We talked about it with Assistant Professor, Dr. Ye Lu, and Associate Dean Joycelyn Harrison, from the KSU College of Aeronautics and Engineering. Listen now.
Following up on our March 3 episode about clean water technology; today, we're talking about proposed new federal EPA regulations that would require testing for exceptionally dangerous chemicals that cannot be filtered out by the common methods used to make drinking water safe nationwide right now.
We'll find out exactly what those "forever chemicals" are, how they're detected, and what would be necessary to remove them from our drinking water supply.
Listen now, as I interview City of Akron Water Supply Bureau Manager, Jeff Bronowski.
The federal government's efforts to protect US citizens' sensitive data took on new urgency this week, as reports surfaced that the phones of more more than 50 top level government officials had been infected with sophisticated spyware.
Also this week, President Biden issued an executive order banning US government agencies from using spyware that is deemed a threat to US national security or is implicated in human rights abuses.
In addition, a bipartisan effort is underway in Congress that would give the federal government the power to ban foreign made hardware and software deemed to be a threat to national security, including (but not limited to) the popular Chinese-owned social media app, TikTok.
But, why is TikTok being singled out for such intense scrutiny? Don't all mobile apps do the same thing? Shouldn't we all be concerned about the spies we carry around in our pockets?
We talked about it with Computer Information Systems Professor, and Cybersecurity expert, Dr. John Nicholas, from the University of Akron.
The fallout from the recent Silicon Valley Bank collapse continues.
Listen now as we talk about it with Kent State University Political Science Professor, Dr. Mark Cassell, who wrote two books on the banking industry. You can find "Banking on the State: the Political Economy of Public Savings Banks", and "How Governments Privatize: The Politics of Divestment in the United States and Germany", on Amazon.com.
The massive failure of Silicon Valley Bank is not only sending shock waves through the tech industry, but also through the entire US Banking industry, and it has the potential to disrupt the entire US economy.
In fact, two other banks failed last week as well. Could it be a trend?
That's why federal regulators took swift action to limit the damage yesterday, and why President Biden assured the nation that banks are safe, and our economy remains strong.
But, how and why did this happen, and what can we do to protect our banks, our money, and our economy from meltdowns like this in future?
Listen now, for our discussion with Kent State University Finance Professor, David Pelleg.
While there are already a lot of ways to save energy and money by retrofitting your home with new windows, weatherstripping, and insulation; wouldn't it be cool if you could do even more, just by using a different kind of building material? Well, now you can–or, at least you'll be able to soon–as a result of a new tech breakthrough in energy efficient building materials pioneered by researchers at Purdue University. Listen now to our conversation with Assistant Civil Engineering Professor, Dr. Mirian Velay-Lizancos.
*Please note, this story was updated to correct technical issues, on 3-6-23
This week, we're taking a deep dive into clean water technology.
We decided to look into it, in response to the big train derailment and toxic chemical release in East Palestine, Ohio, which is about 76 miles Southeast of Akron.
Is anything going on with their water going to affect us? Could the kind of thing that happened there, happen here?
These are the kinds of questions that guided our conversations, but along the way, we encountered some surprises.
For example: Did you know that breathing in the steam from your bathroom shower is actually (at least somewhat) hazardous to your health, because of the chemicals they put in the water to keep it safe to drink? No? Well, we didn't either.
So, listen now to find out more, and get the whole back story on where we get our water, what is being done to protect it, and how there is always some give and take when it comes to reducing risk; including when you turn on the tap at home.
Our featured guests today, are City of Akron Water Supply Bureau Manager, Jeff Bronowski, and Chris Miller, who the founder and CEO of Fontus Blue, a technology company that provides drinking water quality management software and services for communities in a number of different communities nationwide, including Akron.
This week, we're taking a deep dive into clean water technology.
We decided to look into it, in response to the big train derailment and toxic chemical release in East Palestine, Ohio, which is about 76 miles Southeast of Akron.
Is anything going on with their water going to affect us? Could the kind of thing that happened there, happen here?
These are the kinds of questions that guided our conversations, but along the way, we encountered some surprises.
For example: Did you know that breathing in the steam from your bathroom shower is actually (at least somewhat) hazardous to your health, because of the chemicals they put in the water to keep it safe to drink? No? Well, we didn't either.
So, listen now to find out more, and get the whole back story on where we get our water, what is being done to protect it, and how there's always give and take when it comes to reducing the level of risk from pretty much everything in this world, including when you turn on the tap at home.
Our featured guests today, are City of Akron Water Supply Bureau Manager, Jeff Bronowski, and Chris Miller, who the founder and CEO of Fontus Blue, a technology company that provides drinking water quality management software and services for communities in a number of different communities nationwide, including Akron.
This week, it's all about recent breakthroughs that point the way toward a future with better, faster, and more secure computers, as well as nearly unlimited clean energy.
Listen now, for word from the National Science Foundation, about some new research being done now at the University of Rochester, which could make it easier to mass produce quantum computers.
We'll also hear an easy to understand explanation of nuclear fusion from our featured guest , Physics Professor, Dr. Susan Ramlo, who now teaches in the Mechanical Engineering Department at the University of Akron.
As the use of Artificial Intelligence increases; the race is on for humans to redefine themselves and their professional expertise.
That's the word from author, organizational Psychologist, and Artificial Intelligence expert, Dr. Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, and the topic of his new book, "I, Human: AI, Automation, and the Quest to Reclaim What Makes Us Unique".
This topic took on increasing urgency this week, as journalists from the New York Times and Washington Post testing Microsoft's new AI-powered BING search, and Google's new "BARD" AI-powered search, discovered both glaring innacuracies, and experienced bizarre, even frightening interactions.
But that's just the tip of the iceberg. What happens when AI can replace people in jobs that at least so far, have been immune to automation, like doctors, lawyers, journalists, and other "knowledge workers"? How will people still be able to make a living? What will happen to our economy? What happens to the very fabric of our society?
Listen now, to find out what we can do to stay relevant, keep our jobs, fight misinformation, and generally reclaim all that we are absolutely about to lose, in the age of ever more powerful and ubiquitous A-I.
From James Bond's super spy Aston Martin, to Elon Musk’s tricked-out Teslas; the cars we own, drive, and aspire to impress with, have had an outsized hold on America's consciousness and mythology for over 100 years. But, the problem is; we don't just drive them; they drive us to make monthly car payments, and lament the ever-increasing cost of gas, insurance, license tags, parking, and maintenance. But what are you going to do? Some lucky Americans live in cities where taking mass transit is easy, like in New York, and Washington, DC. But they're in the minority. Most of us need our own vehicle to get us where we need to go. And, even if you do have relatively easy access to decent mass transit; that doesn't necessarily mean it is all that convenient, particularly if you need to get somewhere that is not immediately adjacent to a subway line or bus route. At the same time; the environmental damage and health risks associated with burning fossil fuels is driving technological change in the form of more electric vehicles, along with smart technologies that have enabled both autonomous and connected vehicles. With that in mind; I had a conversation with author, educator, and designer, Carla Diana, who is currently working on a new book about a possible shift away from owning personal vehicles, toward a shared, "mobility-as-a-service" model. But the question is; Will Americans ever willingly give up their own personal cars, in favor of making such a thing possible? The last time we spoke, was just after the publication of her book, "My Robot Gets Me: How Social Design Can Make New Products More Human". Now, Diana says, she's fascinated by the possibility of a future where a variety of mass transit options accessed through advanced ride sharing software, could make the personal car passé, help reduce global warming, and give us all back a measure of personal freedom and community that we're missing now as we tool around town in our own private cars.
This week, how high tech concepts like 4-D imaging, are combining with ancient engineering technology from bees, and leading the way toward better, stronger, and safer structures from buildings to bridges.
To find out how, listen to our conversation with Purdue University Professor of Materials Engineering, Dr. Nikhilesh Chawla, who is also the acting head of their Engineering Department.
A new artificial intelligence- powered chatbot called ChatGPT is taking the world of education by storm, because it can write so well; it can seem like its work was produced by a human.
In addition, the bot can write computer code, which could be harnessed by criminals or nation states bent on thievery, mayhem, and even cyber war. So, what can we do about it, how should educators respond, and what's next?
Find out, with Stark State College Associate Professor of Information Security, Glenn Goe, University of Akron Director of Online, Continuing, and Professional Education, Wendy Lampner, and Dr. Jennifer Marcinkiewicz, who is the Director of Kent State University's Center for Teaching and Learning.
You've probably heard by now that federal officials have been talking about the harmful effects of gas emissions from stoves, and the possibility of new regulations. But, what does that mean, or could it mean for you and your stove at home, and on a larger scale; what does it mean to global climate change overall? We'll find out today through a series of reports with experts in the area, including several from here in Ohio.
Seattle Public Schools sued a number of big tech companies this week, claiming the purposely addictive nature of their products is causing a mental health crisis that makes it both more difficult and expensive to educate their students. President Biden also came out this week calling on congress to more tightly regulate big tech companies, in part, because of the same concerns raised in federal court by Seattle schools. Listen now, as we explore that topic with Assistant Professor of Communications, Dr. Rhiannon Kallis, who teaches classes on Social Media at both the graduate and undergraduate level at the University of Akron:
Ohio Democrat Sherrod Brown, who who chairs the U.S. Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, is once again raising concerns about consumers getting ripped off after investing in cryptocurrency. He's been advocating for regulations like those that apply to traditional US currency for quite some time, even warning at a hearing in July, 2021, “There’s nothing ‘democratic’ or ‘transparent’ about a shady, diffuse network of online funny money." But now, in the aftermath of the massive FTX Cryptocurrency exchange meltdown, resulting in more than $8 billion dollars in losses for investors who traded on the $32 billion dollar platform, and multiple federal charges against its founder, Sam Bankman-Fried; he's kicking it up a notch, and once again calling for more consumer protection. Listen now, to his comments from a recent Senate Banking Committee hearing, entitled "Crypto Crash: Why the FTX Bubble Burst and the Harm to Consumers”. We'll also hear from Finance Professor, David Pelleg, who used to work on Wall Street, and teaches classes on Cryptocurrency, at Kent State University.
This week, as we look ahead into the New Year, we're looking back at one of our favorite stories from 2022; the transformation of toxic mine sludge that is polluting rivers and streams, into beautiful artist pigments, by a couple of Professors at Ohio University in Athens.
Listen now to find out more, with Area Chair, Professor of Painting + Drawing and Area Chair of Digital Art + Technology, John Sabraw.
Police departments nationwide are stretched thin, and increasingly using technology to help them collect, analyze, and make decisions based on data from multiple sources.
Listen now to find out how the Akron Police Dpartment is using license plate reader cameras in high crime neighborhoods, doorbell cameras on private homes, a data integration system that can allow them to access both public and private surveillance videos, and mobile phone tracking software.
Our special guest today, is Akron Deputy Police Chief, Michael Caprez:
Everybody's been talking about the big Twitter meltdown, ever since the world's richest man, Elon Musk, bought it, laid off thousands of employees, and demanded those who are left, pledge "hardcore" allegiance to getting the job done, whatever it takes.
For some of them; that means sleeping there overnight, which Musk 'thoughtfully' enabled this week, allegedly by installing beds in some conference rooms–which might be great for him– but might also be a dangerous violation of San Francisco's zoning code.
But I've been worried about another kind of danger; the kind that comes from using one of the world's largest and most influential social media sites, without enough people left on staff to block dangerous and misleading content, safeguard user data, and block hackers. That's why I've developed "Twitphobia" – the fear of posting on Twitter.
Now, while I made up that completely imaginary malady; the underlying danger is real.
Two points for me as well, because I actually admit that I made it up – which is a whole lot more than you can say for all the people spreading lies, hate speech and disinformation on Twitter, since Musk laid off most of his content moderators.
Then, there was Musk himself, releasing internal data this week, seeking to prove former Twitter management was (allegedly) doing something shady when they at first declined to spread information about Hunter Biden's purloined and hacked laptop a few years ago, and then a few days later changed their minds, after discussing how to best handle the situation based on their content moderation standards.
Listen now to find out you might want to think twice before posting on Twitter, according to University of Akron Cybersecurity Professor, Dr. John Nicholas:
This week, we're spotlighting the University of Akron's award-winning esports program, which was recently ranked number two in the nation, by the international online magazine covering video game sports and news, DailyGame.So, how did that happen, and what makes them so good? I asked University of Akron E-Sports Director, Nate Meeker.
Today, we're looking at the potentially devastating community effects of mass layoffs.
Over the past few months, Tech companies have laid off thousands of employees. Some of the big names include Twitter, Tesla, Meta, Amazon, Microsoft, Zillow, Oracle, Intel, Spotify, and Peloton. While many of those employees will find jobs elsewhere; there is still likely to be some economic disruption as the dust settles, and if history is any indicator; not everyone will have a soft landing. That's why I wanted to explore the potentially long-term devastation that mass layoffs can wreak on communities, recognizing that while many tech workers can work remotely; not all of them can.
This is a particularly poignant and fraught topic for those of us who live in Northeast Ohio, and who can remember how this once thriving region became what is now widely known as the "Rust Belt", when the auto industry shed hundreds of thousands of workers over the past four decades, leaving economic disruption, and despair in its wake.
Now, things are starting to pick up again, but how long will that last? Are new Electric Vehicle battery, Intel Chip, and other high tech projects the wave of the future, or just a momentary pause in an endlessly repeating cycle that keeps workers down, and well-paid corporate executives on top, and communities left holding the bag? Listen now, to find out why University of Akron Associate Professor of Economics, Amanda Weinstein says mass layoffs can scar and devastate communities for decades, why public policy that relies heavily on tax breaks for big companies may need to be reconsidered, and what might be a better alternative.
Shocking news out of the world of Cryptocurrency this week, as the $32 billion dollar FTX cryptocurrency exchange goes belly up, declares bankruptcy, and leaves investors in the lurch for millions. How did this all happen? What's next? Listen now, as explore those questions and more, with Kent State University Finance Professor, David Pelleg.
This week, local tech startups in the spotlight, as we talk to Akron's Bounce Innovation Hub CEO, Jessica Sublett. We'll also take a look at what's happening with some of the largest, and most well-established tech companies this week; Twitter, and Facebook parent, Meta, as they slash thousands of jobs, and in the case of Twitter; make big changes with regard to safety, security, and identity.
What if Artificial Intelligence got so good at predicting what consumers want, that a virtual "Santa" could just automatically deliver Christmas toys, without parents even having to order them in advance?
That was just one of many intriguing questions I explored this week with Joshua Gans, who recently co-authored the new book, Power and Prediction: The Disruptive Economics of Artificial Intelligence, along with Ajay Agrawal, and Avi Goldfarb.
Gans, who is a Professor of Strategic Management, at the University of Toronto, concludes that while AI can be extremely useful in business; much of its promise may not be fully realized for years to come.
Find out why, listen now.
What if Artificial Intelligence got so good at predicting what consumers want, that a virtual "Santa" could just automatically deliver Christmas toys, without parents even needing to order them in advance?
That was just one of the many intriguing questions I explored this week with Joshua Ganz, who recently co-authored the new book, Power and Prediction: The Disruptive Economics of Artificial Intelligence, along with Ajay Agrawal, and Avi Goldfarb.
Ganz, who is a Professor of Strategic Management, at the University of Toronto concludes that while AI can be extremely useful in business; much of its promise may not be fully realized for years to come.
Find out why, listen now.
Ohio's ongoing Manufacturing renaissance means so much more for job seekers than just opportunities in big headline grabbing facilities like Intel's Chip plant, and Honda's new EV battery facility,
According to the CEO of Northeast Ohio's Manufacturing Advocacy & Growth Network (MAGNET); those big name projects are just the tip of the iceberg, and now is the time for anyone looking for a job in the tech sector to look for almost limitless career opportunities with manufacturers statewide.
Listen now to our conversations with US Senator Sherrod Brown, and Magnet CEO, Ethan Karp, to find out how manufacturing can be a great pathway to career success.
Ohio wins big again this week, as Honda announced a $4.4 billion dollar partnership with LG to make electric vehicle batteries. They're also expanding production at three Ohio plants, and hiring thousands of new employees.
On the flip side, there was a nationwide cyber scare this week, as a mercenary group of Russian hackers appeared to back their government's war of aggression against Ukraine, by launching denial of service attacks against the websites of a number of major US Airport websites.
Listen now for more details with Ohio Governor, Mike DeWine, Akron-Canton Airport CEO, Ren Camacho, CNET Editor, Ian Scherr, and the University of AkronCenter for Intelligence and Security Studies Director, Dr. Karl Kaltenthaler.
When Tech Entrepreneur and billionaire, Elon Musk, unveiled his new humanoid looking robot recently; it caused a big splash. It also caused visions of "Skynet" to dance in my head, as I imagined Arnold Schwarzenegger's "Terminator" movie character saying "I'll be back!" But, maybe I'm just a Scaredy Cat. I mean, it is almost Halloween, and all. So, I checked in with an actual Robot expert; Author, Educator, and Designer, Carla Diana, who I talked to last year about her new book, "My Robot Gets Me". Listen now for her take on scary robots, and whether she thinks Musk's new invention is the wave of the future, or just a flash in the pan.
The Cleveland Clinic is taking medicine and computing to the next level, as they collaborate with IBM on a 10 year "Discovery Accelerator" research project that will include using a Quantum computer.
Listen now, as Jeanne Destro finds out why with Cleveland Clinic Chief Research Information Officer, Dr. Lara Jehi.
Privacy, security, and disinformation on social media in the spotlight this week.
In the past ten days, the former head of security from Twitter testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee in Washington, a former policy director at Twitter revealed that she testified about threats posed by former President Donald Trump before the House January 6th Committee, the Washington post broke a story about the US Military spreading disinformation on social media overseas, and two class action lawsuits were filed against the company that owns Facebook and Instagram, Meta, for purposely circumventing Apple privacy protections, tracking, and spying on users.
Wow! Listen now for details.
Great news for people in the Akron area who are having trouble getting online at home, because they either don't have a computer, or an internet connection. Now, they can get both, for free, from the Akron Summit County Public Library. Listen now.
Even if you’re deep inside a forest, high atop a mountain, or walking on the moon; there is always some form of plastic nearby. From the buttons on your shirt, to the laces on your shoes; you are literally wearing it wherever you go. You talk into it through your phone, see through it with your glasses, breathe microscopic bits of it from the air into your lungs, and consume particles of it when you drink from some types of plastic bottles.
And of course ; you can’t get rid of it. Throw it in and landfill, and it will remain there, virtually unchanged, for thousands of years. Throw it in the ocean; and it will kill marine life and birds.
On the plus side, there are scientists right here in Akron who are working now, with the aid of a $525 thousand dollar federal grant, to create a new kind of plastic; one that is degradable, more easily recyclable, and made from renewable materials, instead of petrochemicals.
I talked to one of them this week, at the University of Akron. Dr. James Egan is a Professor in their department of Polymer Science, and Polymer Engineering, and I started our conversation with one of my pet peeves about plastic.
You need to put your garbage into it or it will leak all over the place, but you hate to throw it out because you know it will just sit in a landfill forever.
But maybe there’s a better way…not just for your trash, but for all things made of, coated in, and suffused with plastic.
Listen now.
One day in the not too distant future, all our computer systems will be obsolete, our current cybersecurity methods worthless, and even our most powerful supercomputers powerless in the face of even faster, and much more powerful quantum computers, that can crack passwords like a hot knife through butter.
That is; unless we win the race to develop and deploy quantum computers that can protect and defend our networks and most valuable data. While there are already some quantum computers up and running in the United States; the technology is still not fully developed. Competitors such as China and the European Union, are also developing these new computers that work in an entirely different way than what we are using today.
To ensure we can not only compete, but win; the federal government is stepping up efforts to both develop quantum computers, and to develop a workforce that is trained to use them.
One of those efforts is underway right now at Kent State University, where they just got a $500 thousand dollar National Science Foundation grant for for quantum computing cyber infrastructure development.
To find out what that means; we talked to Professor, and Chair of the Kent State University Physics Department, Dr. Michael Strickland, and Assistant Professor of Computer Science, Dr. Qiang Guan.
Listen now, as they talk about how they're going to teach students how to program a completely new and different kind of computer, using hardware and software tools that quantum computers will eventually replace, and why it is important to our national security that we have a quantum-savvy workforce ready as soon as possible.
The first freshwater, offshore wind farm in North America, is one step closer to being built on Lake Erie, now that the Ohio Supreme Court has ruled the permit allowing it to be situated there, was legally issued.
Exactly when construction will begin though, is still up in the air. Despite repeated attempts over the past few weeks,we have been unable to reach the President of the Lake Erie Energy Development Corporation (LEEDCO), for an update. We are, though, including a couple of clips from an interview we did with Dave Karpinski a few years ago, when we first started talking about the project. As soon as we can get an interview with him on recent developments; we'll be sure to pass it along.
Our special guest today, is Green Energy Ohio Executive Director, Jane Harf, who tells us why she believes the Ice Breaker Wind Project is an important step toward mitigating the damaging effects of climate change, and improving public health.
Two Professors from Ohio University in Athens have come up with a way to transform water polluted with toxic acid mine drainage (AMD) into small tubes of beautiful artist paints.
Now, Environmental Engineering Professor, Dr. Guy Riefler, and Art Professor, John Sabraw, have their sights set on an even more ambitious goal; major water reclamation projects funded through large-scale adoption of their innovative tech breakthrough.
Listen now as we talk about the "Pollution to Pigment" project, with John Sabraw, Professor of Art, and Chair of Painting & Drawing, and Digital Art & Technology at Ohio University.
Electric vehicles are poised to replace gas guzzling fossil fuel powered cars and trucks in the not too distant future, but there are a lot of bugs still to be worked out between now and then.
For example, there is a new report out that highlights safety issues with three popular midsize cars.
In addition, Congress has been debating how best to use tax policy to encourage consumers to buy electric vehicles, while also encouraging automakers to move more of their operations out of China, and back to the US.
A third concern we're tackling this week, is the lack of sufficient charging stations for EV drivers who are out on the road, and far from home.
Our special guest is WWJ Radio Detroit Automotive Correspondent, and frequent CBS News Radio contributor, Jeff Gilbert.
We asked him why the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recently gave the Toyota Camry, Chevy Malibu, and Nissan Altima, poor marks for protecting drivers and passengers from injury in side crashes.
Even though Pfizer-BioNTech's Messenger RNA-based COVID vaccine was released first; it is Moderna's vaccine and the relatively unknown company's journey to billion dollar profits that piqued the interest of Wall Street Journal reporter, Peter Loftus, who writes about it in his new book, "The Messenger: Moderna, the Vaccine, and the Business Gamble That Changed the World".
Listen now to find out why.
Imagine cruising on the moon in a high tech rover that can withstand temperatures that swing between a sizzling 250 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and an unbelievably chillly 208 degrees below zero, at night.
While a vehicle that can withstand those extremes, plus extreme wear and tear from razor sharp rocks and sand hasn't been built yet for use here on Earth; it is in development now for use on the moon, by Akron-based Goodyear Tire, in partnership with global security and aerospace industry giant, Lockheed-Martin.
Listen now for our interview with Goodyear Senior Program Manager, Michael Rachita, about the to hear more new metal "tire" treads they're making for a new lunar rover that NASA astronauts can drive on the surface of the moon, or control remotely for autonomous exploration.
We'll also tell you about a new post graduate certificate program in advanced manufacturing technology now being offered by the University of Akron. It is designed specifically for people who already have a B.A. in technical fields, but who lack the depth of understanding they need to land the many great paying jobs waiting to be filled right now at thousands of companies companies right here in Ohio.
What would it take to build your own electric vehicle, and how much would it cost? We asked local D-I-Y enthusiast, and former Akron Makerspace Board member, Chris Bennett. We'll also hear from CBS News Auto Industry Correspondent, Jeff Gilbert, about how Auto Workers Union officials are concerned that their members who work in plants that make electric vehicles could be earning less than those who work in plants where internal combustion-powered vehicles are made. Plus, get ready to take your next vacation--in outer space!
NASA unveiled fantastic and unbelievably beautiful first images this week from the James Webb telescope which is floating in space more than a million miles away in outerspace. Listen for a report from CBS News Correspondent, Peter King, along with comments from President Biden, who hailed NASA's amazing achievement.
You'll also hear about how Ohio Attorney General, Dave Yost, filed a new lawsuit against a major robocall scam operation, and a settlement in a similar case designed to protect consumers from phishing scams, fraud, and identity theft.
Listen now.
While it may sometimes feel like your computer has a mind of its own; despite your frustration, deep down, you know it is really just following a set of commands programmed by a human.
But maybe that's not true anymore.
Google Engineer, Blake Lemoine recently revealed that he believed one of their artificially intelligent (AI) chatbot generators, LaMDA, has become a living, self-aware, being. According to multiple media reports; he was suspended from his job when his superiors dismissed the idea, and he went public with the information.
This of course, raises a lot of very intriguing questions, the biggest of course being whether it is actually true. Lots of experts don't think so, and we'll talk to one of them today, Dr. John Nicholas, Professor of Computer Information Systems at the University of Akron.
But what if it is true? What moral and ethical obligations do we have to this new life form that lives not in the physical world, but in the realm of silicon chips and cyberspace?
Have we really actually reached what is known as the "Technological Singularity"?
What happens if computers start thinking for themselves, and decide they don't really like us all that much, and don't want follow our directions? Are we approaching the Skynet-dominated world Arnold Schwarzenegger made famous in The Terminator, or the nuclear holocaust-threatening nightmare from the 1983 movie starring Matthew Broderick, "War Games?"
Listen now.
Self driving cars that cause accidents, privacy stealing data collection, and gender-biased hiring decisions. These are all examples of Artificial Intelligence not working as intended, and causing real world financial and reputational damage the companies that used it. So how can AI be harnessed and harnessed and handled properly, so that it helps business instead of hurting it? That's the topic of our conversation today with Author, Reid Blackman, who wrote the new book, "Ethical Machines: Your Concise Guide to Totally Unbiased, Transparent, and Respectful AI".
If Summit County Council approves later this month, the first phase of what could eventually become a nearly half a billion dollar broadband expansion project will soon get underway.
As envisioned now, the project could one day both improve emergency communications and other government operations, as well as help county residents who don't currently have access to reliable and affordable broadband connections, finally bridge the “digital divide”.
But, as you'll hear today, though, the $57 million dollar first phase of the “Summit Connects” project is more limited in scope.
Listen now, as Summit County Executive, Ilene Shapiro, and her Chief of Staff, Brian Nelson, talk about why they want to use a mix of local and federal funds to build a125-mile fiber optic cable ring connecting Summit County and all its 31 city, village and township governments to gigabit speed internet service, and to build a new high tech county data center.
Although we're currently blessed with an abundance of water in Northeast Ohio, what will the future hold, as the planet continues to heat up and dry out?
This question took on some real urgency this week, as water rationing began in Los Angeles, and the White House came out with a new action plan to address global water security, and to build drought resilience.
We asked an Applied Climatology expert, Dr. Cameron Lee, who is an Assistant Professor of Geology at Kent State University, about whether our proximity to one of the largest sources of fresh water in the world; the Great Lakes, will keep us insulated from water shortages that are expected to affect more than half of the world's population within the next ten years.
We'll also hear from CBS News Correspondent, Steve Futterman, and Vice President, Kamala Harris.
Listen now.
Sports fans have long been fascinated by statistics, from who has the fastest pitch, to how many times their team has made it to the playoffs.
But that fascination has morphed into big business powered by Sport Analytics, a winning strategy brought to life on the big screen in the 2011 Brad Pitt movie, "Moneyball", and the book that inspired it, by Michael Lewis.
Now, students at the University of Akron can turn an interest in sports and statistics, into career opportunities, through two new degree programs; a Bachelor of Science in Sport Analytics, and a Bachelor of Business Administration, in Sport Business.
University of Akron Associate Professor of Management, Dr. Matthew Juravich, tells us how.
Whether for its the latest app, mobile phone, or even a new car; consumers face a stacked deck when it comes to taking meaningful legal action against companies with defective products.
But, there actually is a relatively simple way to fight back, legally.
Find out how, with Akron area attorney, City of Green Council Member, and consumer litigation expert, Rocco Yeargin.
Don't you just hate it when technology that's supposed to make your life easier; actually makes it even more difficult?
Most people do, and that's why it is welcome news that innovative new technology is available now, that enables people to not only interact, but to collaborate with computers, robots, and other smart gadgets.
Find out more about how this new and evolving technology is helping make business leaders more successful and employees more productive, as we talk with artificial intelligence expert, H. James Wilson.
Wilson, who spoke to us from his home in San Francisco, is the Global Managing Director of Thought Leadership and Technology at Accenture, a management consulting and professional services firm with more than 700 thousand employees worldwide, headquartered in Dublin, Ireland.
He wrote the book, "Radically Human: How New Technology Is Transforming Business and Shaping Our Future", with Accenture's Group Chief Executive-Technology, and Chief Technology Officer Paul Daugherty.
Imagine an adversary so big, and fast, and strong that it can overwhelm all cyber defenses everywhere in the world; smashing through them as easily as a hot knife passes through butter.
That's what federal officials are doing right now, as they execute a new plan to mitigate the risks of quantum computers to the nation's cyber, economic, and national security.
So far, quantum computers, which use the properties of quantum physics to perform computations in an entirely different way than traditional computers, and are much, much faster, are not yet advanced enough to threaten our security.
But, according to a National Security Memorandum issued by President Biden earlier this month; a quantum computer of sufficient size and sophistication–also known as a crypto-analytically relevant quantum computer (CRQC)–will be capable of breaking much of the public-key cryptography used on digital systems across the United States and around the world.
That means it could jeopardize civilian and military communications, undermine supervisory and control systems for critical infrastructure, and defeat security protocols for most Internet-based financial transactions.
It also means that all of our current routers, switches, passwords, and security protocols, are going to become obsolete.
So, there is a plan taking shape right now, to migrate, upgrade, and replace current systems over time, with the goal of transitioning as much as possible to quantum-resistant cryptography by 2035.
In fact, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the National Security Agency (NSA) are now developing new technical standards for quantum-resistant cryptography, and the first sets of these standards are expected to be released publicly by 2024.
But what exactly is quantum computing, and why is it both a threat to our national security, and an amazing opportunity that will drive innovation, create jobs, and lead to technological advancements that we can't even yet imagine?
To find out, listen now to our interview with Physics Professor, and Technology Consultant, Dr. Susan Ramlo, who lectures on the topic at the University of Akron.
Representatives from 60 countries came together last week to talk about the future of the internet, and to declare their commitment to freedom of speech, online safety, and opposition to authoritarian government control, propaganda, and disinformation.
The roundtable discussion and signing of the "Declaration for the Future of the Internet", was conducted by the US State Department largely, but not entirely in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
While many of those participating in the 90 minute video conference talked about Russia's aggression both in the physical world and online; they also discussed the need for an internet that is safe from aggression from other bad actors, like criminals who prey on children, steal money and intellectual property, and bullies who make life difficult for women and minorities.
Listen now, for highlights from the event.
Red Alert! Cyber Defenders Focus on Russian Threats
US officials are sounding a loud warning about increased Russian cyber intrusions and possible attacks on critical infrastructure here in the US, as the war in Ukraine rages on, and threatens to spill across the border into neighboring countries.
Just this week, FBI Director, Christopher Wray talked about Russian cyber threats on CBS 60 Minutes, and Business Insider ran an editorial penned by Morgan Adamski, who is the Chief of the National Security Agency (NSA) Cybersecurity Collaboration Center.
Here in Ohio, Governor Mike DeWine created a new position; Cybersecurity Strategic Advisor, and appointed Kirk Herath, who currently serves as the Chairman of the State's Cybersecurity Advisory Board, to fill it.
But that's not all.
Here in the Akron area; Cybersecurity professionals are both working to protect both public and private networks all over the world, as well as training the next generation of cyber warriors who can step up, and counter threats from Russia and beyond.
Our featured guests today are Stark State College Associate Professor in Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics, along with David Kennedy, the Founder and CEO of TrustedSec, an information security consulting firm serving big corporate customers worldwide.
Currently headquartered in Strongsville, TrustedSec is moving into a huge new facility in Fairlawn, on May 15th.
Listen now..
Tech industry leaders, educators, venture capitalists, and entrepreneurs are meeting April 23rd in Cleveland, for the Ohio Tech Summit. Presented by John Carroll University and Ohio X, a non-profit aimed at turning Ohio into a tech hub; the event features high-profile tech industry speakers, demos, and networking opportunities. To find out more, listen now to our conversation with Ohio X President, Chris Berry. *Please note: Tickets to this event are sold out.
Fueled in large part by federal fund; Summit County is considering the installation of a high speed countywide fiber optic network that would both provide high speed internet access to many residents who don't have it yet, as well as a much higher quality and lower cost alternative to currently available internet service. As currently envisioned; the new countywide fiber optic network would build on Fairlawn's public broadband service, Fairlawn Gig, though it would not actually extend that city's service through the whole county. Instead, what Summit County Executive, Ilene Shapiro, and her Chief of Staff, Brian Nelson tell us, is that Fairlawn Gig will be the lynchpin of the nearly $400 million dollar project, but the majority of the investment will come from private companies. Find out what's in it for them, and how at least from the County's perspective; it could one day enable everything from better education to smart traffic lights. Listen now, for details.
Two very different Ohio startups are in the spotlight this week, both offering innovative ideas that can solve big problems, and maybe even save lives.
Robotic Maintenance Vehicles is headquartered in Alvordton, OH, about 45 miles West of Toledo, and is seeking customers now for its new A-I enabled Robobotic Crack Sealer, that can replace human road repair crews who are often killed or injured on the job by distracted drivers.
We'll also hear from a Worthington, Ohio-based "smart clothing" company, FlexEnergy, LLC. They are in the process of developing a flexible and washable battery, that can be embedded into clothing to power all kinds of products, including patient health-monintoring hospital gowns, and military uniforms that can charge mobile phones.
Featured guests include RMV Account Manager, Tyler Roth, and FlexEnergy, LLC Chief Operating Officer, Ramachandra Rao Revur.
The ongoing push toward electric vehicles takes on more urgency, as the War in Ukraine roils oil markets and causes gasoline prices to hit record highs nationwide. Listen now, to hear how the federal government is pushing to expand the nationwide network of electric vehicle charging stations, and how Akron's Metro RTA is introducing two new electric buses into their fleet on March 29th.
This week, we’re looking at some of the issues raised by President Biden’s recent executive order designed to ensure responsible innovation in digital assets, including possibility of creating a US Central Bank digital currency.
Listen now, for details from a recent US House of Representatives hearing, and a conversation with featured guest, Kent State University Finance Professor, David Pelleg.
US Central Bank digital currency, cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, Russia, Ukraine, refugees, sanctions, responsible innovation in digital assets
Great for your mobile phone, not so great for aviation. Find out what's behind continuing concerns about the rollout of 5-G technology nationwide, and what's being done to make sure you're safe to fly. Our featured guest is Dr. Tim Collins, who is a former Air Force fighter pilot, aviation technology researcher, and President of Walsh University in North Canton. He explains how and why mobile phone 5-G radio signals, could possibly interfere with airplane radio altimeters, which allow them to safely avoid obstacles in bad weather. He'll also talk about what can be done to mitigate that threat going forward. We've also got testimony from a recent US House of Representatives hearing in Washington, where they outlined how a massive breakdown in communication between three federal agencies, the aviation industry, and the telecom industry resulted in flight delays and cancellations in January. Since then, the telecom industry agreed to temporarily delay acitivating 5-G towers near major airports while they address technical issues, but that does not include the smaller "general aviation" airports for private and and corporate planes.
So, where do we go from here? Listen now, to find out.
From hot tech jobs, to cool new cameras, this week we're featuring a wide range of topics, including how big tech is stepping up to support the people of Ukraine, now under siege by Russia.
While celebrity advertising endorsements are not yet a thing of the past; a new report shows they're certainly on the wane, and changing, as a result of social media. Find out why, listen now.
Do you have what it takes to land a good paying job at Intel's new semiconductor factory, which is slated to open near Columbus, in 2025? Computer Science Professor, Dr. John Nicholas, from the University of Akron, explains the types of jobs that will likely be available there, and the kind of education you'll need to get them. We'll also explore how the current chip shortage is hurting the auto industry, how Biden administration is gearing up to ensure that Americans who buy electric vehicles, will actually have someplace to charge them, and how the iconic, gull-winged Delorean car, is coming "Back to the Future" as an EV!
This week, we're exploring the intersection of art and technology, with Kent State University Artist and Professor, Janice Lessman-Moss. Moss, who heads the University's Textile Arts Department, has been teaching students how to weave for the past 40 years, and she talked to us about how digital technology has enabled her to take a very basic, ancient art form, and turn it into something much more rich, complex, and expressive. But that's not all. She also tells us about how and why the Jaquard Loom, invented in the early 1800's, became one of the predecessors to the moden computer. Listen now to find out more, and to hear about her upcoming exhibit at the Kent State Museum, showcasing more than 20 years of her works. "Dancing with the Distance", opens Friday, February 25th, and runs through Sunday, October 2.
While Intel's 20 billion dollar investment in two new semiconductor factories in Central Ohio is a huge win for the Buckeye state; it is also a huge win for America.
Listen now, to hear from President Biden, and US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, who explain why will not only help ease the chip shortage that has caused manufacturing supply chain disruptions, but will also help protect our national security.
You will also hear from Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Ohio State University President, Christina Johnson, and more, about how this massive new project will unfold over the next three years, and about the renewed prosperity and hope it can bring to a state that has seen thousands of good paying, high-tech manufacturing jobs moved to places like China and Korea over the past 40 years.
If Intel's overall vision is fulfilled; they say their initial $20 billion dollar investment could swell to more than $100 billion dollars over the next decade. But, that depends to a large degree, on new federal legislation that would provide $52 billion dollars to the semiconductor industry, in the form of direct funding and tax incentives.
That, officials say, could potentially spur other companies to follow suit in "re-shoring" manufacturing jobs that can help rebuild the US economy not from the top down, as has been the focus since the Reagan era; but instead; from the bottom up, by rebuilding the fortunes of American workers.
A new study shows emotions -especially, anger-drive the spread of fake news online, and that you can stop the spread, by pausing to recognize how you're being manipulated into sharing it. Listen now as Jeanne Destro talks to Bowling Green State University Associate Professor, Christy Galletta Horner, about her new study on the link between emotions, and the spread of misinformation, disinformation, and fake news online.
Take this job and...love it! Tech "Startup Culture" is in the spotlight, with Columbus-based Branch Insurance. They recently received the State of Ohio's "Tech Startup Culture Award". Featured guests include Branch Insurance President and CEO, Steve Lekas, and Ohio X President and CEO, Chris Berry, who talk to us about what "startup culture is", why it's important, and how it impacts both company employees, and customers.
This week, a conversation with business expert and best-selling author, Andrew Winston, about his new book, “Net Positive: How Courageous Companies Thrive by Giving More Than They Take.
The Ohio Division of Securities has issued an investor advisory on Decentralized Finance, also known as DeFi. It is a relatively new blockchain-based set of financial services.
Companies entering this space are now offering banking and investing services that rely on cryptocurrencies instead of conventional currencies, such as the U.S. or Canadian dollar or Mexican peso.
Our featured guest is Corporate Attorney, John Crist, from the Securities Division of the Ohio Department of Commerce, and he explains why consumers should be extremely leery of these new types of investments, how they can avoid getting ripped off.
2021 was a banner years for cybersecurity, and not in a good way, as US government agencies, businesses, and private citizens suffered the effects of major cyber attacks.
Cybersecurity expert, Dr. John Nicholas, from the University of Akron, recaps the year's biggest threats, what is being done to address them, and where we go from here.
This week, big news out of the Cleveland Clinic, as they announce the successful start of a clinical trial on new wireless, and potentially much more effective pacemakers and defibrillators for patients with heart problems.
We talked to Cardiologist, Dr. Daniel Cantillon, who is the Associate section head for cardiac electrophysiology and pacing at the Cleveland Clinic's Heart and Vascular institute.
This week, we're looking at some innovative new technology aimed at both preventing, and cleaning up toxic algal blooms in Lake Erie. This is not only designed to protect swimmers and boaters on the Great Lake, but is also important to keep drinking water safe for nearly three million people in Northeast Ohio. Listen now for our interview with Lake Erie Commission President, Joy Mulinex, and Ohio Environmental Protection Agency spokesperson, Heidi Griesmer.
In addition, we'll find out more about H2Ohio water improvement projects going on statewide, including several either in, or close to Summit County.
Listen now for our interview with Lake Erie Commission President, Joy Mulinax, and Ohio Environmental Protection Agency spokesperson, Heidi Griesmer.
Do you dare to repair? If so, we have an early Thanksgiving treat today for Apple device owners, as the company has decided it will sell repair parts along with directions to install them, to consumers. This could be great news for consumers and repair shop owners. Listen now to find out more from CNET's Ian Scherr, and Akron Makerspace Interim Treasurer and Membership Coordinator, Chris Bennett.
Although 24 hour operations at West Coast Ports have put a dent in the backlog of containers waiting to be unloaded and shipped across the country; the ongoing supply chain disruption is having a serious impact on Northeast Ohio manufacturing.
Find out more about how that disruption, plus a microchip shortage, is affecting consumers nationwide with reports from CBS White House Correspondent, Nancy Cordes, and Geoff Colvin from Fortune Magazine.
Then, hear about how that is hurting local business, with Ethan Karp. He is the President and CEO of MAGNET; a non-profit consulting group that helps manufacturers succeed in Northeast Ohio.
The University of Akron is shutting down its long-running Confucius Institute program, after the US Department of Defense made it clear they will no longer fund military research at Colleges and Universities that continue to allow that Chinese Government-funded program on campus.
The goal is to protect US Military technology from Chinese spies, who federal government officials say could gain access to it through that educational and cultural exchange program.
Featured guests today include CBS News Military Analyst, Jeff McCausland, and University of Akron Executive Vice President and Provost, John Wiencek.
This week, President Biden pledged the US will take action to reduce fossil fuel emissions, in an effort to protect the forests worldwide which in turn; can help protect us from the harmful effects of climate change. We'll hear from President Biden, who spoke at the COP26 conference in Glasgow, Scotland, as well as Climatology Professor, Dr. Cameron Lee, from Kent State University. We first spoke with Dr. Lee a few months ago, but thought this week's climate conference presented a perfect opportunity for us to revisit that conversation, and look into why climate change is happening, and what--if anything--we can do to blunt its devastating effects.
Take a creepy peek behind the theater curtain for Halloween this week, as we look into scary movie special effects! Listen now to our conversation with University of Akron School of Communications Professor, Juan Contreras, and with Jereme Gelske, who is a Visual Effects Coordinator, and Associate Producer at Crafty Apes Visual Effects and Production Services, in Atlanta.
Great things come in small packages in Akron, as home town electronics firm, Tiny Circuits, introduces a new miniature gaming device called the "Thumby", along with a wearable to help kids stay fit and pursue careers in healthcare. Find out more, as we talk to our featured guest, Tiny Circuits Founder and President, Ken Burns.
Students from all over the country will gather soon at Kent State University for their annual "Skyhack" event. They'll compete November 5-7, to win cash prizes for new and innovative ways to improve aviation. We'll also hear about a new study on Internet Gaming addiction, and talk to a couple of experts from the University of Akron about what can be done to prevent it, detect it, and help those who suffer from it. Featured guests include Dr. J.R. Campbell from Kent State University, who is the Executive Director of the their Design Innovation Initiative, CBS News Correspondent, Michael George, University of Akron Associate Psychology Professor, Dr. Toni Bisconti, and University of Akron ESports Director, Nate Meeker.
Ohio workers stand to win big, if and when the proposed federal infrastructure bill gets passed by Congress. But how good will those jobs be? US Senator Sherrod Brown and Congressman Tim Ryan joined with labor leaders this week, to talk about how and why those new "green" jobs, should go to well trained, and well paid Union workers. Listen now, to find out why.
Don't you just hate it when something expensive breaks, and you either have to replace it , or spend a fortune on repairs?
If so; you're not alone, and there are a whole lot of people nationwide who feel the same way-including President Biden, who took action recently to help enable consumers' "Right to Repair".
Find out more, through audio clips from a recent Federal Trade Commission meeting, where they unanimously agreed to step up law enforcement efforts against manufacturers who are purposely, and illegally preventing consumers from either making repairs on their own, or at least having a choice about who gets to fix it for them.
We're also talking to a local D-I-Y repair enthusiast, Chris Bennett, from Akron Makerspace, about why he thinks there needs to be action on the state level; not just from Federal agencies like the FTC. Listen now, to find out why.
From Broadband expansion,, to cool new tech startups; we're spotlighting big tech issues and innovations statewide.
State law enforcement officials are joining the Federal government's fight against illegal robocalls. Today, we'll hear from Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, and ZipDX LLC CEO David Frankel on why robocalls are such a problem, and what can be done to stop them.
Science fiction becomes science fact, as the Cleveland Clinic unveils a new bionic arm that amputees can control with their minds. Our special guest is Dr. Paul Marasco, who is Dr. Paul Marasco is the Director of their Laboratory for Bionic Integration,
The Air National Guard Base in Mansfield, Ohio will soon be one of the nation's leading centers for Cyber Warfare.
Find out why, with Major General John C. Harris, who commands several branches of the US military in Ohio, including the Air National Guard.
We're also talking to Computer Science Professor, Dr. John Nicholas, from the University of Akron, who is actively involved in training the next generation of cyber warriors, along Incident Response Lead, Tyler Hudak from the global Information Security Consulting firm, TrustedSec, on the role private sector companies play in keeping America safe from cyber attacks.
This week, as millions of kids nationwide start a new school year; we're talking to education expert and author, Ruchard Culatta, about his new book, "Digital For Good: Raising Kids to Thrive in an Online World."
It was the worst of times, it was the worst of times. Listen to my tale of woe about hassles with my mobile phone carrier, and find out what you can do if you find yourself in a similar situation.
Is it safe, or is it dangerously radioactive? That's the question Ohio lawmakers are trying to answer, as they ponder a request to allow a product used to deice Ohio highways, to be purchased by consumers for home use. Find out why the makers of Aqua Salina say it is safe, and why many citizens, environmental groups, and even some state officials say is not.
This week, a breakthrough in plastic technology, with the discovery of a new way to chemically break down polymers to basic components that can be recombined indefinitely, with no loss of quality or strength. We'll also hear about an innovative new COVID-19 home testing kit, robot sports, and high tech jobs available right now, in Northeast Ohio.
This week a dark and twisted tale of of cyberattacks, crime, intrigue, nuclear weapons, and surreptitious spyware on mobile phones. Our special guest, is Dan Shelley, who is the Executive Director, of the Radio Television Digital News Association & Foundation.
Show me the money! Esports is becoming a big business opportunity, not only for players, but for business professionals who promote and manage Esports related activities and events. That's why the University of Akron is now offering an ESports business certificate. Find out more, with Professor Seungbum Lee, and University of Akron Esports Director, Nate Meeker.
This week, how the same voice technology that powers your interactions with Siri and Alexa, also allows marketers to gather data about you like your age, weight, birth control use, and more., and then to use it without your knowledge or consent to determine whether or not you can get a loan, the kind of rates you might pay for insurance, and more. Find out more, as we talk to Author, Joseph Turow, about his new book, "The Voice Catchers: How Marketers Listen In to Exploit Your Feelings, Your Privacy, and Your Wallet". We'll also hear from Stark Area Regional Transit Authority Executive Director and CEO, Kirt Conrad, about why they're phasing out diesel, and expanding the use of Hydrogen fuel cells to power their buses. He says it's the green energy wave of the future in bus technology. Listen now, to find out why.
After cyber attacks believed to be coming from criminal hackers in Russia; US President warned Russian President, Vladamir Putin that the US is prepared to respond. But that doesn't negate the fact that both American public and private sector organizations are still extremely vulnerable to attacks like the one that recently shut down the Colonial pipeline, cutting off gasoline supplies to the East Coast. Our special guests today, Dr. John NIcholas from the University of Akron, and Author Thomas Parenty, tell us what we can do to protect ourselves against ever-increasing threats from all over the world.
Billionaire Richard Branson was on board, floating weightless and very happy, when his Virgin Galactic Space Plane took its inaugural flight yesterday. Jeanne Destro talked to CBS News Correspondent Bill Harwood, about the start of a new era in space exploration; Space Tourism. Are you ready to go? Listen now to find out how.
The University of Akron's I-Corps program has helped launch a number of successful tech startups, turning big ideas into big profits through mentoring, focused market research, and award-winning business development support. Find out how, with University of Akron Foundation Director, Elyse Ball.
The Republican-controlled Ohio legislature passed a new law this week, entirely along party lines, that inserts an extra layer of government review into where Wind and Solar power production facilities can be located. Despite opposition from a wide array of groups not normally politically aligned, like the Chamber of Commerce, labor unions, the Farm Bureau, and Environmentalists.
Fairlawn Gig Municipal Broadband officials applauding news that Ohio legislators dropped a plan to ban municipal broadband, and to restore $250 million dollars in funding for extending broadband to under-served rural areas.
Fairlawn Public Service Director, Ernie Staten says it happened in response to a huge grass roots movement.
This week, how to get free training for high paying jobs in the tech sector.
You may have heard in the past that the State of Ohio has a jobs training program called "Tech Cred", which offers cash incentives for employers to get their workers up to date with the kind of skills they need for in-demand jobs.
But, as we'll hear now from Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted; you can also take advantage of that training even if you don't work for an employer who is participating in the Tech Cred program.
This week, we're focusing on the relationship between art and technology; new trends, new ideas, and new ways of sharing creative work in person and online.
This week, the future of mobility and sustainability, both here on earth, and in outer space.
This week, how the work from home trend could be great for individual Akron-based software developers, butmaybe not so great for the future of tech startups in our area, and how you can directly contribute to scientific research on a timely, but very noisy, natural phenomenon. Featured guests are Akron's Bounce Innovation Hub CEO, Jessica Sublett, and Dr. Gene Krtitsky, from Mount St. Joseph University in Cincinnati.
President Biden goes all in on EV Trucks, Amazon hits pause again on facial recognition for cops, space tourism on the rise, and 3-D printers for everything from dental care to food for deep space missions of the future.
Cybersecurity experts say big attacks like the one on the Colonial Pipeline are inevitable, and likely to continue, so now the key is getting everybody on board to help fight them. Featured guest: Computer Science Professor, Dr. John Nicholas, who teaches Cybersecurity at the University of Akron.
Russian cyberattack on major US gas pipeline is already causing some gasoline price increases, with more to come possible.
Efforts to fight toxic algal blooms on Lake Erie, sun blocking paint, urban tree planting in Cuyahoga County, fires out west, and an explanation of climate change, with Dr. Cameron Lee from Kent State University.
This week we’re looking at how both the automotive and energy sectors are moving toward alternative fuel sources, and what that will mean for us when it comes to jobs, the kind of vehicles we drive, and the way we power our homes.
16th District Republican US Congressman, Tony Gonzalez, is co-sponsoring a bill that supports getting the NIH to study the effect of technology on kids.
Product designer and author, Carla Diana, talks about the pros and cons of making all the gadgets we use, "more human".
This week, smart tires, electric vehicles, the space race, and a trippy new discovery about dreams.
Governments around the world have been either shutting down, or limiting access to the internet. Jeanne Destro talks to Jillian York from the EFF, to find out why, and if it could happen here.
This Week, a conversation about how the government can, and maybe should, more tightly regulate internet commerce.
We talked toUniversity of Akron Law Professor, Mark Shultz, about consumer protection legislation pending before the European Union, and whether or not something like that could work here in the US.
How researchers at the University of Akron are tracking COVID through sewage, new tech for COVID-safe skyscrapers, AI enhanced video games, and upgradable laptops.
President Biden issues executive order designed to shore up US supply chain for semiconductor chips, in response to global shortage that threatens manufacturing--including the automotive industry.
Bitcoin hit $50K earlier this week, and now it's even higher; $55K. Find out why that's a big deal, and who is buying it, with KSU Associate Finance Professor, David Pelleg.
This week the future of mobility, as automotive industry giants make big investments in autonomous delivery vehicles.
Plus, how you can keep your cool, keep your job, smoothly navigate technology glitches, just like the lawyer who became an internet sensation when he recently declared "I am not a cat" during a Zoom call gone wrong.
Akron-based App Developer, Jenn Cmich on "LoveSync", the sexy new app that's like Tinder for couples.
Tech pros from big cities like Seattle and San Francisco are moving to Northeast Ohio. Find out why, with Ohio X President, Chris Berry.
This week, lots of car tech news, from Apple Cars, to flying Cadillacs, and even smart headlights!
We’ve also got a story about the possibility of what they’re calling “Digital Covid-19 passports”, the future of farming, and tips on how to make a great impression in virtual meetings.
Quantum computing including "teleporting" information, explained by U-A Computer Science Professor, Dr. John Nicholas.
Pandemic winners and losers in manufacturing, new medical technology for ambulance crews, and more about a possible National Guard cyberwarfare center in Ohio.
Lt. Governor Jon Husted on tech initiatives including flying cars, autonomous vehicles, and low-level satellite broadband.
Major Russian hack compromises computers all over the world, including Federal agencies like Treasury, Commerce, Homeland Security, and more.
This week, hackers targeting the COVID-19 vaccine supply chain, and a conversation with journalist Jeff Roberts, about his new book, “The Kings of Crypto”.
This week, we’re focusing on election interference, social media influencers, the pandemic, and Zooming with Santa Claus.
Self driving cars and electric vehicles, with CBS News Radio Correspondent, Jeff Gilbert.
This week, it's all about recycling, and the technology used to both just keep it up and running each day, as well as new advances that can make it easier, more inclusive, and more efficient.
This week, how electric vehicles are driving new economic development in Northeast Ohio, and how Amazon technology is transforming your in-car experience.
We’ll also hear about a new program in Akron aimed at providing Wi-Fi for residents in low income housing, and how the University of Akron has become a major player in efforts to train next generation cyber warriors.
This week, how all the political controversy on Facebook is actually turning people off enough to abandon the social network…at least, that’s what a new study says. We’ll find out more. Also, a dire warning for hospitals during the pandemic about another kind of threat—cyberattacks—and what can be done to prevent them.
This week, how a local company is fighting crime and climate change with a new invention that can help reveal secrets buried deep underground.
CBS News National Security Consultant, Jeff McCausland, on Russian spies indicted for cyber attacks.
This week, how the Ohio Supreme Court just let Amazon off the hook for allegedly causing the death of a Northeast Ohio teenager, and how technology is being used to connect senior citizens with much needed care and social contact, during the pandemic.
This week, Deepfakes--what are they, how to spot them, and why you need to be on guard against them before the election.
This week, it's all about technology that can both protect, and harness the power of one of our area's most valuable natural resources: Lake Erie.
This week, more hackers targeting the election, Amazon hiring100 thousand new employees, Google going green, and ways to make it easier for your kids to take classes from home.
This week, a sweet story about 3-D printed cookies and cakes, a top-gun competition between human and artificial intelligence pilots, and new US military drones.
This week advances in police surveillance, how the pandemic is putting a real crimp in facial recognition, a laptop shortage because so many kids are going back to school online, and how Google is stepping up to help kids and teachers make the most of their remote learning experience.
How Akron-based R-V Share.com really came into its own during the pandemic, and why producing enough COVID-19 vaccine isn't just about what's inside the bottle.
Facebook trying to help, not hinder this year's Presidential election, new technology to help courts conduct remote trials, free IT training in Akron, and scream-free roller coasters, in Japan.
Interview with CBS Correspondent Steve Dorsey, on how technology played a new and expanded role in this year's DNC convention, and what that might mean for conventions in the future.
Today, I'm talking to CBS National Security Consultant, and Military Analyst, Jeff McCausland, about how Israel recently foiled a cyber attack from shadowy group that the US has linked to North Korea, and how that could affect us, here in the US.
This Week, why President Trump is talking about banning the social media appTik-Tok, how that relates to national security, and what that might mean for all of us, even if we don't use that particular app.
This week, Deepfakes, artificial intelligence, a special kind of air filter that can help protect us against COVID-19, 3-D printed KFC chicken, in Russia.
This week, new technology that can both make it harder to counterfeit money, and make it easier for you to color your hair.
Also, more technology that can keep us safer during the pandemic, hundreds of new car models coming on the market soon, Twitter cracking down on Q-Anon, and actual proof that the government is tracking UFO’s.
This week, how increased screen time and online classes affect childrens' mental health, Russian hackers trying to steal Coronavirus vaccine information, an inside job Twitter hack, and privacy issues involving Presidential campaign apps.
This week, it's all about renewable energy, recycling, clean air, and new technology that's going to make that all possible.
This week, more interesting new technology to help protect against COVID-19, both here in the US, and in Russia, where Vladimir Putin is going to extremes to make sure he doesn’t catch it.
Also, protests against police brutality are not just happening out on the streets. Now, big tech and social media companies are feeling the heat too, as both consumers and advertisers demand racial and social justice.
This week, how a stock trading app may have led to the tragic end of a young man’s life, how you can get refunds for reservations that got cancelled during the pandemic, and a new invention that can both help reduce your chances of catching COVID-19, and vastly reduce the number of potty breaks you’ll need to take on your next road trip.
This week, more news about technology designed to help keep us safe from COVID-19, the first video game ever approved for kids with ADHD, big changes ahead for Apple, and a major Cyber attack in Australia.
This week, police surveillance and protests, whole body disinfection at the airport, artificial intelligence-powered dash cams, and the biggest fine ever, for robocalls.
By now, you’ve probably heard that a NASA crew arrived at the International Space Station a few weeks ago for the very first time in a commercial spacecraft.
But, what you might not know, is that scientists at the University of Akron helped make it happen. We’ll tell you how.
Also, why the skies are decidedly less friendly these days, for the aviation industry.
This week, how Google is adapting and improving Search and YouTube, to provide accurate health information during the pandemic, hot new cars that kill the virus, and robots that serve beer and deliver donuts.
This week, the FBI wants to search your iPhone, Uber in the age of Corona, and mosquito-zapping drones.
This week, it’s all about technology in the fight against COVID19, made right here at home in Ohio.
This week, why the video game industry is hot, and why it's a great place to look for work--even during the pandemic. Also changes ahead as auto plants re-open, and U-V light, in the fight against COVID-19.
This week, a closer look at what Apple and Google are doing to help track the spread of COVID-19, and alert people when they need to get tested.
Also, how you can tour the scene of the May 4, 1970 shootings at Kent State, and see it like it was 50 years ago---without leaving home.
This week, building tomorrow’s cars, today—from home, Google supporting local news, and E-Sports stepping into the spotlight, as other sports temporarily step aside.
This week, more technology in the fight against COVID-19, including Big-brother-like government surveillance, a ring that might be able to tell if you’re sick, germ-zapping face shields, and smart toilets! All this and more, coming up!
This week, more reports about how tech companies--both old and new, are answering the call to fight the coronavirus. We'll also hear about how to improve your home WIFI performance, how to network for business from home, and how some job seekers are looking to the stars for their next opportunity.
New tech solutions to help battle COVID-19, and police using home surveillance camera tech to fight crime.
Tech issues related to the Coronavirus pandemic, and interview with author of book about Empathy in a Tech Obsessed World.
Tech challenges, scams, and security issues related to working from home during the Coronavirus pandemic.
This week, how governments around the world—and here in Ohio—are using facial recognition technology, and all the complicated issues that arise from that, including privacy, civil liberties, and the possibility of being falsely accused and prosecuted for crimes you never committed.
This week, a new approach to cutting through government red tape, through the use of artificial intelligence. But is it a good idea?
We’ll find out, with Ohio Lt. Governor, Jon Husted, CBS Technology Consultant, Larry Magid, and Artificial Intelligence expert, Professor Vanja Djuric, from the University of Akron.
This week, we’re focusing on social media, and loneliness. With more than two billion people worldwide connected just on Facebook alone—not to mention Twitter, Snapchat, and all the other social media platforms—you’d think that wouldn’t be an issue. But, it is.
This week, we’re looking at the intersection between old and new technology, from the cars we drive, to the plants that manufacture them.
This week, cybersecurity in the spotlight, as the US Government charges four members of the Chinese military with espionage, for hacking the giant credit reporting company, Equifax. We’ll also talk to the CEO of Trusted Sec, and Binary Defense, about their plans to expand in the Akron area.
This week, how a faulty mobile app put a major crimp in the the Iowa Caucuses.
Also: New Facebook parental controls, and how augmented reality is teaching a new generation about the campus demonstration that shocked the nation and helped end the Vietnam war 50 years ago this spring.
This week, new trends in automotive technology, kids learning to code before they even start school, how ultra-high speed municipal broadband is helping to spur economic development in one local community, and high tech diapers that send a signal to something other than your nose, when they’re full!
This week: Advances in medical technology, from personal tech that can detect changes in your heart rhythm, to a 3-D printed device being used at one of the nation’s premier hospitals to help keep people with severely damaged lungs alive. We'll also hear about advances in heart surgery, and a robotic exoskeleton that can help people who are paralyzed, walk again.
This week, we'll touch on a wide variety of topics, including Iranian cyberthreats, new car trends, how coffee waste is being used to make headlights, and what bees can tells us about how to make better robots.
This week, as we start using all the cool new gadgets we got for Christmas, like computers, smart phones, and smart speakers; some information on how to keep them safe from hackers, spies, and criminals
This week, as we look forward to the new year; we’re taking a look back at some highlights from the past year.
Those include include a new Aviation technology center at Kent State University, new high tech tires for NASA’s Mars Rover, how the State of Ohio is encouraging workers statewide to learn new tech skills, and an accelerator program usually focused on on software developers, extending a helping hand to “hard tech” companies as well.
This week, what happens when a home security device gets hacked, a new tech non-profit in Ohio, and a heads up for sportscasters--a computer might one day, be doing your job!
This week, we're spotlighting local company that can help you make your own tech invention dreams come true. We'll also hear about some new advances in artificial intelligence, the new Tesla Cybertruck, and a NASA mission to Antarctica.
This week, we're talking about online security, green energy, electric cars, and Netflix making a big splash, on the big screen.
This week, kids, cars, and education. Libraries up in arms about the high cost of e-books, the first ever use of a new robotic arm for a kidney transplant, and a new long-range hybrid car.
is week, it’s all about communication—or the lack of it—that happens when we connect with others via text, email, and social media.
In author Nick Morgan’s new book, “Can You Hear Me? How to Connect with People in A Virtual World", he argues that the very nature of electronic communications makes it harder for us to understand what people really mean, why that’s a bad thing, and what we can do about it.
This week, it's all about tech on the job...from basic skills training, to a new accelerator program for "hard tech" entrepreneurs...
We'll also talk about artificial intelligence, robots, and flying the friendly skies of Uber!
Humans may be at the top of the food chain when it comes to other living and breathing creatures on earth; but when it comes to sheer smarts, we're being way out-classed by Artificial Intelligence. Find out why this is so, and why that's a good thing---at least according to David Weinberger's new book, "Everyday Chaos: Technology, Complexity, and How We're Thriving in a New World of Possibility."
This week, enlisting private cyber warriors to keep the public safe from hackers, spies, and criminals.
We’ll also hear about some new high tech cameras that can help the blind to see, help you stay safe in traffic, and to help Big Brother see you—wherever you are.
This week, we’re talking about embarrassing things posted about you online, laws designed to help protect you from them, and what to do, if it happens to you.
This week, it’s all about the technology that allows us to connect with one another, from the nearly 1 million Ohioans who don’t have access to high speed internet, to the residents of Cleveland, who will soon be enjoying super-fast 5-G connections.
We’ll also be talking about how solar could be our major source of energy in the not too distant future, and bionic shorts that could make you a running superstar.
This week: Online threats including one that sent a police SWAT team to a local family’s house in the middle of the night, and a woman who got cheated out of three quarters of a million dollars by a trio of fake online Romeos.
Also: A new partnership between Kent State University’s e-sports team and the Cleveland Cavaliers, and a brand new, all-e-sports network launching next year.
This week, we've got our eye in the sky, with stories about aviation safety, job opportunities, and an upcoming NASA mission to Mars.
Plus, some far-out vacation spots just perfect for space cadets everywhere, and talking lasers!
This week, we’re focusing how on how the Federal government is dealing with complaints that Google, has been collecting personal information about children without their parents consent. It's a big issue, that resulted in a very big fine.
We’ll also hear about how a different kind of user-generated content—selfies—are being used by Marketers aimed at reaching an older demographic—Millennials.
We've also got a report on some new high-tech clothing that can make you invisible. Well, kind of......
With summer vacation over, and everybody back to school by now, we thought it would be a good time to look at technology and education, with stories ranging a proposed law requiring employers to provide on the job training for employees whose jobs are threatened by new technology, to new ways of training employees WITH technology.
We’ll also learn about some novel new ways to use video, virtual reality, and even holograms in the classroom.
This week, we’re looking at technology your health, including stories about high tech bandages, gaming injuries, and changes on Instagram designed to reduce teen depression.
We’ll also hear about the latest efforts to block robocalls, how to recycle your old cell phone without actually getting rid of it, and how 5-G technology may revolutionize your home WiFi connection sometime soon.
This week, underwater robots, government surveillance and facial recognition, how being stressed out can keep you safer online, portable personal air conditioners, that can keep you super cool, even when its super hot outside.
This week, aviation technology in the spotlight, with stores about planes, drones, and even blimps. We'll also hear about how Facebook is invading your privacy yet again, and how they're planning to actually one day, even read your mind.
This week, parents who share too much online, Facebook’s big fine, a huge mobile merger, high tech dog houses, and a $200 dollar smart pillow.
This week, Amazon bringing 25 hundred new jobs to Northeast Ohio, beating the heat with building design and technology, electric cars powered with water, and artificial intelligence links built into your brain.
This week, we're talking about food and the technology that takes it from the farm, to your table. We'll also talk about how technology that can tell us the best time to drink coffee, and high tech umpires in professional baseball.
This week, new efforts to expand broadband internet access statewide, more privacy concerns about electronic surveillance, and online shopping so easy, even a toddler can do it.
This Week....Hackers, hackers, hackers. More data breaches, and what to do about them. Also, robots coming for your jobs, and Monopoly goes high tech.
This week, cryptocurrency in the spotlight—what it is, who uses it, why Facebook plans to introduce their own version of it.
Also, budget smartphones, a MacBook Pro recall, scarily accurate “deep fake” videos that could threaten our democracy, and how robocalls can be bad for your health.
This week, it’s all about cars—including news about a new GM college scholarship program, price reductions on electric cars, a new name for hybrids, and even flying taxis!
This week, we’re talking about renewed interest in, and emphasis on space travel and exploration, Amazon delivery drones, Robocalls, and how hackers are using sound to crack passwords.
This week, we’re talking to tech visionairies who are reviving the rust-belt, by turning aging manufacturing powerhouses, into modern technology hubs—all of course, in hopes of bringing more jobs, and more prosperity to Northeast Ohio.
We’ll also learn about how the federal government has its sights set on possibly breaking up and regulating big tech companies, and how both used car batteries, and food waste can help power our cities.
This week, it's all about scammers, schemers, and hackers who try--and often succeed, in parting you from your money, your peace of mind, and maybe even your identity.
This week, government surveillance through social media, security cameras, telecommunications networks, and mobile devices. We’ll also look at government efforts to reduce robocalls, global warming, wind power on Lake Erie, and tiny little robots that may one day clean your teeth.
This week, Amazon in the spotlight again—and not in a good way, how your smartphone may soon be obsolete, a Cicada-finder app, and toilets—for cows.
This week, hackers in the spotlight again, causing problems at Cleveland Hopkins Airport, and ripping off a church for nearly two million dollars.
We'll also take a closer look at exactly how hackers infected and shut down parts of the City of Akron's Network earlier this year, and then take a look at some cool new inventions that can help both save energy—and the environment.
This week, we’re celebrating 420 Day a week late, but still rolling a weed-infused theme with stories about medical marijuana, CBD products, and a new high-tech testing device being developed here in Akron that police can use to see if drivers are under the influence of marijuana.
This week, how Amazon Alexa may be spying on you, and how companies like Facebook and a big, well-known government contractor, are using artificial intelligence.
Pretty much everybody knows you should be running some kind of anti-virus, or internet security software on your computers. But, what you might not know, is that's not the only--or even the best--way to keep hackers, criminals, and spies out of your network.
So, this week, we're focused on cybersecurity in general, and in particular, on what you can do to make your router more resistant to attacks.
Wind power is making headlines this week, from the White House to a small rural community Ohio where they're providing power for General Motors and Microsoft. Google is also getting in on the act, with new technology that can actually predict when the wind will blow.
This week, it’s all about cars—from students actually building and racing their own Formula cars, tires for autonomous fleets, and car companies gearing up for a time when more computers than people do the driving.
This week, The FBI hunts Crypto criminals, something fishy with blockchain, flip-phones making a comeback, and rear view mirrors that actually look back at you!
This week, using big data to fight opiod addiction, big data breaches—and what the government can do to stop them, the latest on efforts to restore net neutrality, and the race in space to provide internet access.
This week, more details on how Facebook is becoming an internet service provider, where to look for new tech jobs, our greatest cyber threat, and a new app that’s sure to be a hit with pet lovers.
This week, eBay celebrates the one year anniversary of it’s “Retail Revival” program in Akron, Facebook is becoming an internet service provider in Canton, tiny tech that’s big, big fun, and why selfies really do make your nose look bigger.
This week, more big cyber attacks, new life-saving chemical sensors, Ford recalling more than a million vehicles, and a new dating app---for cows!
This week, we’re looking at all kinds of technology—from race car tires, to satellites. We’ll also hear about how Jeff Bezos’ racy texts and selfies sparked a national scandal, the economic impact of fracking, and how technology is helping us find love—in the refrigerator.
This week, recovering from a cyber attack, electronic surveillance, and digital license plates. We'll also hear about how cryptocurrency investors may have just lost millions of dollars, and a hedgehog inspired football helmet.
This week, hackers making headlines again, with a Cyber attack on the City of Akron, and out in California; sending scary messages through home security systems. We’ll also learn about a new super adhesive inspired by Gekko feet, drones that can fill potholes, and toasty new technology that help keep you warm even on the coldest days of winter.
This week, the massive Marriott data breach, a phone scam that cost grandparents $41 million dollars last year, a huge military contract for Microsoft, and robots that both help the disabled, and allow them---- to-help you.
This week, a new program to support software development in Akron, Microsoft trying make Seattle a more affordable place to live, big changes in automotive technology, and some exciting new medical tech that could save lives. We’ll also hear about a soundproof dog kennel, and a solar-powered classic rock song that goes on, and on, and on…..
This week, we're focusing on cryptocurrency. What is it, who uses it, and how is it going to affect us in the future.
This week, fighting crime with technology—both on the streets of the inner city, and in cyberspace. We’ll also take a look at why Apple sales are dropping worldwide, a robot with the magic touch, and a guy that gets paid thousands of dollars a month, to live his life—live—on social media.
This week, we're taking a look back at a few of the most interesting stories we covered over the past year.
They include an invention that can help protect first responders from opiod overdoses, a "food computer" at the library, a new way to train IT pros, revolutionary clean drinking water tech, and a new kind of helmet for astronauts.
This week we're taking a look back at an interview we did last March with tech author and entrepreneur, Andrew Keen. Keen, I first became acquainted with Keen, who's been called "The Antichrist of Silicon Valley", when I reviewed his book "Digital Vertigo" for USA Today a few years ago.
Now, his latest book, "How to Fix the Future", explores how people all over the world are trying to come up with ways we can both survive and thrive in a future where livelihoods are threatened by automation, privacy is a relic of the past, social media has been subverted, and surveillance is omnipresent
This Week, social media in the spotlight, with another big Facebook data sharing scandal, new information on just how much the Russians are influencing Americans by using social media, and a local woman actually sentenced to jail for inducing panic, after posting false information on Facebook.
We'll also find out about efforts to to bring more software companies to Akron, a giant leap ahead in computing power, and how you can take a ride on a space ship, even if you're not an astronaut.
This week, the link between internet access and your health, how China is scoring and penalizing citizens for what they do online, why your phone's fingerprint reader isn't so safe after all, and how flying cars may one day help you sail high above traffic jams.
This week, the massive Marriott data breach, a phone scam that cost grandparents $41 million dollars last year, a huge military contract for Microsoft, and robots that both help the disabled, and allow them---- to-help you.
This week, holiday shopping at work, hazardous smart toys, robots that will hold your parking space for you, and thought-controlled TV.
This week, new software designed to help local retailers compete against Amazon, the FCC taking aim at Robocalls, and smartphones you can fold up and put in your pocket. We'll also hear about weatherizing your home for the winter, technology to help infants learn, and a guy who wants to legally change his age--so he can get more dates online.
This week, advances in medical technology that could improve surgery, let your know whether you're at risk for a heart attack, and and give people who are paralyzed, the ability to walk again. We'll also hear why people in Sweden are getting microchips implanted under their skin, how highway speed signs are spying on you, and a new truck that actually makes and delivers pizza.
This week, Chinese spies hacking US networks, laser weapons that can actually vaporize your skin, energy savings paint, smaller cell phones, and how smart speakers are getting even smarter.
This week, more breakthroughs in medical technology, a sophisticated cyber attack, what Facebook is doing to safeguard against efforts to suppress votes in the upcoming election, and how digital technology is bringing a beloved US President, back to life—well, kind of….
This week, the new Presidential Alert hits cell phones nationwide, pay raises at Amazon, a huge Google data breach, another Facebook hoax, cutting edge medical technology, and scientists actually talking about directing asteroids toward the earth.
This week solar-powered electric cars, a brand new type of wearable electronics, taking cues from Mother Nature to create high tech products, and a fitness tracker—for your dog!
This week, the federal government looking into ways to tame big tech and social media companies, cybersecurity advice for manufacturers, new technology that can help bring water to even the dryest parts of the globe, and your dinner delivered by drones.
This week, double agents, chemical weapons, and spy versus spy in cyberspace. We’ll also hear how Twitter is taking a stand against hate speech, how schools are keeping a watchful eye on social media, and whether or not that shiny, new, super-high-resolution 8K TV, is really worth it, after all.
This week, a life-saving smart-watch, civilian cyber-warriors, scandal at Amazon, and a new invention for first responders dealing with the opiod epidemic.
This week, both Facebook and Uber in the hotseat for data breaches, California faces off against the feds on net neutrality, Verizon launches the nation's first 5-G network, and how a new invention could keep you from having to scrape ice off your windshield in the winter.
This week: EBAY launches a big new national customer service program in Akron, Amazon expands its chain of cashier-less convenience stores, a possible cure for baldness, and an out-of-this world clean energy supply.