TechWatch Radio: Recent Episodes
Sam Bushman & Jay Harrison
Tech Watch Radio, hosted by Sam Bushman and Jay Harrison, is more than your average computer talk show. Sure, we discuss all facets of computers but there's more to technology than the beast or blessing we call the computer. The program consists of fast-paced news, callers, guests, and features such as the website of the week and the DOs and DON'Ts of tech. Sam and Jay focus on balancing technology in your life - let hi-tech serve you, not own you! Their innovative way of simplifying complex issues will help the average layman get up-to-speed on the tricks and tools for the times we live in. Cell phones, PCs, networking, home theater, gaming & even remote-control/home-automation and telecommuting, also known as the mobile office.
In this episode of TechWatch, Sam Bushman and Jay Harrison dive deep into the week's most critical tech developments. The Trump administration has issued a sweeping directive banning Anthropic AI across all federal agencies, raising serious questions about AI governance, privacy, and military applications. Are guardrails on AI technology realistic, or will the US fall behind in the global AI arms race?The hosts also tackle Microsoft's controversial decision to split Windows 11 into two separate development tracks for ARM and x86 architectures—a move that could create a support nightmare for developers and consumers alike. Plus, Intel's risky gamble: replacing their entire phone support team with an AI assistant that even they admit might give you incorrect answers.Also covered: AI's hidden costs, the future of email management, why AI-generated videos still look distorted, Facebook malware disguised as Windows 11 upgrades, and Elon Musk's X platform hitting record usage during the Iran conflict.Call to Action:
The Messaging App Wars: WhatsApp's 3 Billion Users, Telegram's Rise & The Privacy Crisis You Need to Know AboutWhatsApp has conquered one-third of the planet with 3 billion users, while Telegram is rapidly closing in at nearly 1 billion. Meanwhile, governments are cracking down on encrypted messaging, Amazon's Ring doorbell cameras are tracking neighborhoods, and the Pentagon is battling AI companies over autonomous weapons. This is the privacy conversation every tech user needs to hear.Sam and Jay dive deep into the global messaging app landscape, revealing why iMessage will never dominate outside the US, how different countries leapfrogged America in mobile technology adoption, and what the Android vs iPhone divide really means for your digital life. You'll discover why Russia and France are hunting Telegram's founder, Pavel Durov, and what his fight for encryption means for freedom of speech worldwide.We also explore Quanta Sure, a new quantum-resistant encrypted messenger built by Christians in America who are taking privacy seriously. At just $2-5/month, they're challenging the free-app model with a platform that collects minimal data and refuses to compromise on security. Is this the future of private communication?Plus: Amazon Ring's shocking partnership with surveillance company Flock Safety gets exposed, the Pentagon's clash with AI firm Anthropic over weapons development reveals the battle for AI ethics, and we discuss why smart businesses are finally embracing data minimization to protect both themselves and their customers.Whether you're concerned about Big Tech surveillance, government overreach, or just want to understand which messaging app is right for you, this episode delivers the insights you won't find in mainstream tech coverage.RESOURCES:Quanta Sure - quantasure.comNetwork Providers Inc - networkprovidersinc.comTech Watch - npitechguys.comTechWatch keeps an eye on tech so you don't have to. Subscribe for weekly insights on technology, privacy, security, and AI that actually matter to your life.#Privacy #Cybersecurity #WhatsApp #Telegram #Encryption #TechNews #AIEthics #DataPrivacy #Surveillance #iMessage0:00 - Intro & Northeast Snowstorm Discussion3:00 - Messaging Apps by Rank: WhatsApp Dominates with 3 Billion Users8:33 - Telegram Hits 1 Billion Users & Closes in on iMessage19:58 - Telegram Usage by Country: India #1, Russia #220:18 - Pavel Durov Under Investigation: Russia & France Target Telegram Founder24:35 - Quanta Sure: New Quantum-Resistant Encrypted Messenger26:18 - Quanta Sure Features & Privacy Approach35:22 - Amazon Ring Cuts Ties with Flock Safety Surveillance Firm38:15 - Pentagon vs Anthropic: The AI Weapons Development Battle43:05 - Data Minimization: Why Businesses Should Store Less Customer Info46:58 - Credit Card Security & PCI Compliance Best Practices
Join Sam Bushman and Jay Harrison from Network Providers Inc. as they dive deep into the latest technology trends shaping our world. This episode covers Google's expanded AirDrop-style sharing for Android devices, the massive SpaceX and xAI merger valued at $1.25 trillion, and Elon Musk's ambitious plans for orbital data centers powered by solar energy.Discover why Chromebooks may be harming education rather than helping it, as a 25-year teaching veteran explains how screens are replacing critical thinking skills and fundamental learning. Learn about the controversial Trump savings accounts and Michael Dell's $6 billion investment in America's youth.The hosts also reveal shocking details about Waymo's self-driving cars—they're not as autonomous as you think! Remote workers in the Philippines are actually guiding these vehicles when they encounter problems. Plus, explore mysterious hot blobs deep inside Earth that have been steering our planet's magnetic field for 265 million years.From messaging app wars (WhatsApp vs. Telegram vs. iMessage) to Apple's AI struggles and Windows 11 frustrations, this episode keeps you informed on tech so you don't have to track it yourself.Watch now and subscribe to stay ahead of the tech curve! Visit NetworkProvidersInc.com for more insights.
Join Sam Bushman and Jay Harrison on Tech Watch Radio as they break down the biggest tech stories you need to know about this week!
Join Sam Bushman and Jay Harrison on Tech Watch Radio as they dive deep into the latest tech chaos affecting millions of users. In this episode, we tackle Microsoft's disastrous Windows 11 update (KB5074109) that's crashing Classic Outlook and losing emails—Sam shares his personal nightmare of spending hours trying to recover his email system and why he's been forced to switch to Gmail's web client.We explore the growing AI backlash as consumers push back against AI-everywhere marketing, with Dell leading the charge by stepping away from AI-focused PC promotion. Discover why gaming PCs are replacing traditional consoles as the future of gaming, thanks to innovations showcased at CES 2026.Plus, we cover:Email's uncertain future and why communication tools are fragmentingThe RAM shortage crisis is driving PC prices up 20%OCUlink ports that let you connect external GPUs to mini PCsGovee's immersive TV backlighting system transforms your viewing experienceValve's push to bring Linux gaming mainstreamSolar radiation threatens aircraft systemsAnd much more tech news you need to know!Brought to you by Network Providers Inc. - your trusted IT partner for security, help desk, cloud solutions, and more.CALL TO ACTION:Don't let tech problems derail your business! If you're struggling with email disasters, security concerns, or IT headaches as Sam experienced, contact Network Providers Inc. today at NetworkProvidersInc.com or call 385-446-5500.Subscribe to Tech Watch Radio at NPITechGuys.com for weekly tech insights, and grab your copy of The Cyber Playbook at NetworkProvidersInc.com/cyberplaybook to protect your business from costly breaches.Like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone who needs to stay ahead of tech trends without the headaches!
Join Sam Bushman and Jay Hill on Tech Watch Radio as they dive into the latest technology trends shaping 2026. In this episode, they explore groundbreaking innovations announced ahead of CES, including Fender's revolutionary Bluetooth speakers that can connect to four devices simultaneously, and Sony's next-generation noise-canceling technology.The hosts revisit the fascinating story of Symphony Digital Radio—a promising technology from the early 2000s that mysteriously vanished—and discuss why it's more relevant than ever with today's AI-powered audio filtering capabilities.Discover the challenges facing Apple's Vision Pro headset as production cuts reveal the hurdles of early-stage spatial computing adoption. Learn about ambitious plans for AI data centers in space through Project SunCatcher, backed by tech giants like Google, Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Sam Altman.Plus, get the latest on Starlink's impressive growth to nearly 10 million users and their upcoming direct satellite-to-cell phone technology. The show also covers critical topics including the RAM shortage affecting computer prices, LG's lightest 17-inch laptop, and eye-opening research on social media detoxing—revealing how reducing usage by just 75% can significantly improve mental health, sleep, and productivity.From government tech boondoggles to cryptocurrency scams, Sam and Jay keep you informed on everything tech so you don't have to.Call to Action:Ready to take control of your tech life? Start your own social media detox challenge this week—reduce your usage to just 30 minutes per day and experience the benefits for yourself! Visit NPITechGuys.com for show notes, video content, and more tech insights. Don't forget to subscribe to YouTube and your favorite podcast platform to stay ahead of the tech curve. Have questions or tech topics you'd like us to cover? Reach out to Network Providers at NetworkProvidersInc.com—think solutions, think education, think Network Providers!TECH WATCH RADIO - EPISODE TIMESTAMPS0:00 - Introduction & Welcome1:26 - Fender Bluetooth Speakers (4-device connectivity)5:17 - Sony Noise Canceling Technology9:32 - Symphony Digital Radio (the technology that vanished)15:29 - LG's Lightest 17-inch Laptop18:32 - RAM Apocalypse & Memory Shortage21:49 - Apple Vision Pro Production Cuts25:38 - Project SunCatcher (AI Data Centers in Space)31:12 - Starlink Growth & Direct Satellite-to-Cell Technology35:53 - Social Media Detox Study (JAMA Research)40:30 - Personal Social Media Detox Experience45:05 - German Government Phone Boondoggle ($35M waste)48:35 - Cryptocurrency Scam (Reynolds Spector case)
In this episode of "Keeping an Eye on Tech: Scams, Security, and the Human Side of IT," host Sam Bushman is joined by Jake Oaks, Marketing Director for Network Providers Inc., for a deep dive into the ever-evolving world of technology and cybersecurity.The conversation kicks off with practical advice on how to spot and avoid common email scams targeting businesses and individuals, including payroll and banking fraud. Sam and Jake discuss the importance of double-checking suspicious requests, protecting sensitive information, and the growing sophistication of cybercriminals—sometimes even using AI-generated voices to trick victims.The episode also explores the broader landscape of IT support, highlighting how proactive maintenance and education can keep businesses safe and running smoothly. Jake shares insights into NPI’s commitment to client education, from webinars and in-person events to a growing library of training materials designed to empower business owners and staff.Listeners will also hear a candid discussion about the privacy risks of modern technology, from smartphones that are always listening to the legal gray areas of data collection and consent. The hosts debate the balance between convenience and security, the rise of AI in daily life, and the need for public awareness and pushback against overreaching tech companies.Other topics include the impact of ad blockers, the ethics of online advertising, and the troubling role of major platforms like Meta in enabling scams. The episode wraps up with practical tips for protecting your digital life and a reminder that technology should serve you—not the other way around.Whether you’re a business owner, IT professional, or just a tech enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice for navigating today’s digital landscape.Stay one step ahead in the digital world—subscribe to our show for more expert insights, practical tips, and the latest tech news. If you found this episode helpful, share it with a friend or colleague, and don’t forget to leave us a review. For more resources and to connect with our team, visit networkprovidersinc.com. Protect your business, empower your team, and keep technology working for you!
In this comprehensive episode of TechWatch Radio, Sam Bushman, and Jay Harrison take you on a 50-minute journey through the latest in technology, media, and cybersecurity. From the challenges of producing content for both radio and TV, to the ever-changing world of streaming services, the hosts dive deep into the YouTube-Disney standoff, the economics of sports and entertainment, and the rise of AI in both productivity and fraud. Special segments include practical cybersecurity advice, a look at Canva’s AI-powered design revolution, Microsoft’s bold gaming moves, and the ethical implications of AI on mental healthWhether you’re a tech enthusiast, business owner, or just trying to keep up with the digital age, this episode is packed with insights, tips, and lively discussion.Key Moments & Timestamps[0:00] – Welcome & Multi-Platform ProductionSam and Jay discuss the transition from radio to TV, content creation strategies, and the challenges of producing for multiple platforms.[2:35] – Streaming Services & Industry ShakeupsThe hosts break down the frustrations of modern streaming, the YouTube-Disney dispute, and the rising costs of sports and entertainment.[9:01] – Premium Subscriptions & CybersecurityIs YouTube Premium worth it? Plus, practical tips for small business cybersecurity and the importance of digital vigilance.[12:42] – AI in the Workplace: Fraud & DetectionExploring the rise of AI-generated fake expense receipts, how companies are fighting back, and the broader implications for business integrity.[16:15] – AI, Mental Health & Data BreachesOpenAI’s findings on user well-being, the risks of emotional attachment to AI, and a look at major data breaches with advice on password security.[21:21] – Tech Industry News: Nvidia, Musk, and MicrosoftNvidia’s $5 trillion milestone, Elon Musk’s Grokipedia, and Microsoft’s cross-platform gaming strategy.[27:00] – AI & Creative Tools: Canva vs. AdobeCanva’s new AI-powered features, the battle for creative dominance, and how tech companies risk losing their mission.[32:00] – The Ethics & Future of AIThe dangers of using AI for fraud, AI in accounting, mental health risks, and the need for responsible development.[41:00] – Final Thoughts & Sign-OffThe future of tech giants, the importance of adaptability, and a thank you to listeners with resources for staying connected.Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to TechWatch Radio for more in-depth tech analysis, practical tips, and the latest industry news. Visit npitechguys.com for show notes, resources, and exclusive content. Have questions or topics you want us to cover? Reach out and join the conversation—your voice matters!
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Sam Has An Idea? - Imagine that!
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Genetic testing company 23andMe announced that hackers accessed around 14,000 customer accounts in the company’s recent data breach - In a new filing with the US SEC.
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Most Common Passwords Take a Second to Crack.
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Best streaming device overall: Roku Express 4K Plus.
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Tesla’s cheapest Cybertruck won’t drop until 2025! - The automaker now estimates it’ll charge $60,990 — or $53,490 after $7,500 in federal tax credits. That’s more than the starting price for a Ford Lightning or Silverado EV (both around $50,000).
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Federal judge blocks Montana's TikTok ban before it takes effect.
- Your favorite, bittersweet tunes may help relieve pain better than unfamiliar, relaxing music.
Participants in a small study said that pain less unpleasant by about nine points on a 100 point scale when they were listening to their preferred music.
Research has long suggested that music can help lower pain perception without medication and could even help babies tolerate heel-prick blood tests.
Emerging research has also found that music might change our experience of certain types of discomfort.
They are exploring new dimensions of the psychology of music listening that have not been well-studied, especially in the context of pain relief. As a result, the data we have available is limited, although the preliminary results are fairly strong.
- Feds Want To Install Speed-Limiting Devices On All New Cars - MSN.
The ISA tech utilizes a car's GPS, a database of speed limits, and onboard cameras to ensure compliance with legal speeds.
Sam Advocates for the slow down of (not only cars) but, life in General.
Jay advocates for speeding things up via using technology and high tech coordination to improve efficiency.
- US Harbors Prolific Malicious Link Shortening Service.
The top-level domain for the United States, .US is home to thousands of newly-registered domains tied to a malicious link shortening service that facilitates malware and phishing scams, The findings come close on the heels of a report that identified. US domains as among the most prevalent in phishing attacks.
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Iphone 15 Features.
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Is the App Store still a source for new technology innovations or has AI development become the hotter new tech to build for these days?
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Apple unveiled This Week in Apps: Apple’s iPhone app of the year finalists - Sarah Perez.
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Apple’s Pledge to Support RCS Messaging Could Finally Kill SMS - Apple to finally bring RCS to iPhones.
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Toku’s AI platform predicts heart conditions by scanning inside your eye.
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Elon Musk says we dug our own grave with Cybertruck ahead of its November release.
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Will Law Install 'Kill Switches' In All New Cars?
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Beware: Black Friday Deals 2023?
- Sam Reports Live From Vegas At The Boxabl.com HQ!
VIDEO!: https://youtu.be/jgf2e1ekF68
- Intuit: Shutting Down Mint, A personal finance and Budgeting App.
Intuit, which acquired Mint in 2009, is encouraging users to switch to Credit Karma, its money management and credit score service.
Credit Karma does not offer a budgeting tool that allows users to set a monthly budget and budgets by category, a favorite feature of Mint users. Mint allowed users to link their spending accounts to the service, so purchases could be automatically categorized as restaurants, groceries or bills, making it easier to track spending.
- Plex Media software startup and streamer is expanding its service to become more of a social network, not just a way to organize your home media or stream free content.
Plex Discover Together Lets You See Your Friends' Streaming Activity.
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Is It Really Sam Or Just An Electronic Replica?
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True or False, When your phone rings and you hear the familiar sound of your spouse’s voice on the other end, you can be 100% confident it’s really them right? - Maybe not.
Criminals have found a new, terrifying way to use AI to scam people, and it starts by cloning your voice.
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The Cybertruck is set to finally arrive after a nearly two-year delay. Tesla First officially unveiled back in 2019, Teslas electric Cybertruck impressed and amused the public with its angular, Blade Runner -inspired design and purported features including reinforced glass, stainless steel body, and a lack of door handles.
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Jay hopes for a Christmas Present!
- X, formerly known as Twitter, is introducing two new tiers for its subscription offering in order to bring in additional revenue.
The social media giant is adding a new Premium+ tier that costs $16 per month and offers the “largest reply boost” and removes ads from the For You and Following feeds. The tier also comes with revenue-sharing, along with access to other creator tools.
The second tier launching today is called “Basic” and costs $3 per month. The tier doesn’t come with a blue checkmark, but includes basic features like the ability to edit posts and post longer text and videos. It also offers a “small reply boost.”
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Tech layoffs are back with a vengeance
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Introducing: Raspberry Pi 5! - It isn't just a progression; it's a transformation.
It's up to three times faster and packed with new features, it's an exciting upgrade.
- Pi 5 is no longer a toy or single task system, it's fast becoming a real full featured machine.
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Girls at Westfield High School in New Jersey were left shocked when they discovered boys were circulating fake nude photos of them, according to a Thursday report from The Wall Street Journal (WSJ).
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at least one student had used online tools powered by artificial intelligence (AI) to create fake nude photos of their female classmates using pictures of them that were already on the internet.
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Digitally altered or deepfake photos and videos have exploded in recent years. Briefly searching online will lead users to dozens of tools that offer face-swapping and "clothes-removing" capabilities. Pornographic material makes up the majority of deepfakes created on the internet.
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TikTok, is now the home to a steady stream of deepfake videos.
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Because there is no law against deepfake porn creation, victims may not have a clear legal avenue to press charges against the creators of the deepfakes.
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The incident has made the girls rethink what they post online, and some decided to delete social media altogether.
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Youtube to support RSS?
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Private feeds for Youtube music
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AI writes South Park episode(s)
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Network Intruders give themselves away by their actions.
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MoveIt Hack and Ramifications
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Why you should still use a Hotspot.
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Voice isolation in iOS
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And blurring on live video
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Microsoft email gets hacked!
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Cyber Cold War
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Aducity updates
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GIMP & Open Source software
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iOS Voice Isolation
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Live video blurring
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Microsoft emails hacked!
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Cyber Cold War
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Aducity updates
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OpenSource & GIMP
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ChatGPT has an Official App now, on iOS
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Netflix winds down DVDs after 25 years
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Voice Isolation for iPhone calls
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Video blurs too in-real-time
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Tech jobs in trouble?
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PC Sales down
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HP vs Dell
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The Problem with Preinstalled Software
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Path for better PCs
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Apple iPhone shortage?
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Foxcon factory riot over wages
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UK goes after Apple for browser monopoly?
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Lightning to USBC
TWR 20221019 (recorded on 20220929)
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Where have all the Delivery Drones Gone?
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Fuel cells and drones
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Life gets in the way.
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Same problem with self-driving-cars
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All-electric Plane Prototype
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Short-hop Service
TWR 20221009 (recorded on 20220929)
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The Death of ISDN & POTS
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64k Stream
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Packet switch vs Switched Networks
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Visible and Priority Service
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Cellular "land lines" & Ooma
TWR 20220929
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Hurricane Ian in FL!
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Hurricane Season
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An update from our studios in Florida
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Hurricanes vs Tornados
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Scale of Systems
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Prepare for Round2 in GA/Carolinas
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Turning Seawater into Drinking Water - https://www.unilad.co.uk/technology/suitcase-sized-device-turns-seawater-into-drinking-water-20220503
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Cool tech, solar and more
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Water generators available now today
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Amazon Search: Atmospheric Water Generator
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Talking about Work
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Ford's 40hr work week
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25% work from home
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36% freelance
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What's the optimum work week?
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People want flexibility
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Elon Musk says Report to work, or pretend to work elsewhere!
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Sam's 6-day work week
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Work productivity