Grumpy Old Geeks

Jason and Brian dive into a whirlwind of tech chaos, cultural absurdities, and dystopian developments. They kick things off with a nostalgic nod to the internet's past, highlighting the 88x31 GIF collection and quirky single-use websites like "Trump Golf Track" and "Are We Doomed Yet?" The asteroid 2024 YR4 briefly raises existential dread as NASA’s odds of a 2032 Earth impact fluctuate wildly, but relief follows as updated calculations show a near-zero chance of collision. Meanwhile, Elon Musk dominates the headlines with his bizarre CPAC appearance brandishing a chainsaw, Tesla’s anti-theft dye measures for Supercharger cables, and mounting protests against his political entanglements and government layoffs under DOGE.The episode also covers corporate drama and AI controversies. The New York Times introduces newsroom AI tools amidst its legal battles with OpenAI, while Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella urges the industry to temper AI hype. Uber sues DoorDash over alleged anti-competitive practices, and Meta unveils plans for the world’s longest undersea cable alongside LlamaCon, its first generative AI conference. Meanwhile, Humane abruptly discontinues its AI Pins following an HP acquisition, leaving users scrambling. The hosts also explore Musk’s meddling with X’s Community Notes and blocking Signal links, further eroding trust in the platform.On the media front, Jason and Brian discuss upcoming releases like Daredevil: Born Again, The Last of Us Season 2, Apple’s Murderbot series, and Judd Apatow’s Norm Macdonald documentary. They wrap up with listener feedback, shout-outs to Patreon supporters, and a hilarious anecdote about a Tesla showroom protest featuring an employee’s cheeky “We Hate Him Too” sign. As always, the duo blends sharp insights with biting humor to dissect the week’s madness.Sponsors:DeleteMe - Head over to JoinDeleteMe.com/GOG and use the code "GOG" for 20% off.Private Internet Access - Go to GOG.Show/vpn and sign up today. For a limited time only, you can get OUR favorite VPN for as little as $2.03 a month.SetApp - With a single monthly subscription you get 240+ apps for your Mac. Go to SetApp and get started today!!!1Password - Get a great deal on the only password manager recommended by Grumpy Old Geeks! gog.show/1passwordShow notes at https://gog.show/685FOLLOW UPThe 88x31 GIF CollectionTrump Golf TrackAre We Doomed Yet?Odds of Asteroid Hitting Earth in 2032 Climb Again as Impact Probability Hits New PeakNASA Makes Big Update to Asteroid Potentially on Collision Course With Earth in 2032IN THE NEWSI cannot describe how strange Elon Musk’s CPAC appearance was. So here’s a literal transcript instead.Tesla Installing Countermeasures as People Are Hacking the Cables Off SuperchargersProtesters demonstrate outside Tesla showrooms in USSign That Says “We Hate Him Too” Appears in Window of Tesla DealershipThe New York Times has greenlit AI tools for product and edit staffUSDA Scrambles to Rehire Bird Flu Experts After DOGE Laid Them OffDOGE Reportedly Cuts FDA Employees Investigating NeuralinkDOGE employee cuts fall heavily on agency that regulates Musk’s TeslaElon Musk wants to 'fix' Community Notes on XTrump Media says it lost more than $400 million last year while revenue dropped 12%Trump Media and Technology Group, the parent company of Trump's Truth Social, site just announced it lost $400.9 million last year.Trump Administration Wants to Help Get Professional Misogynist Andrew Tate out of RomaniaHere’s Why Trump May View Andrew Tate As An Ally—As He Reportedly Pressures Romania To Lift His Travel RestrictionsNextdoor’s Nirav Tolia thinks he can turn things around with AI; he has a lot riding on itX blocks users from sharing links to SignalUber accuses DoorDash of anti-competitive practices in a lawsuitMeta Will Build the World’s Longest Undersea CableMeta announces LlamaCon, its first generative AI dev conferenceMeta Connect 2025Zuckerberg's New Metaverse Ad Is So Bad That the People Who Created It Must Be Secretly Trying to Humiliate HimMicrosoft’s Satya Nadella Pumps the Breaks on AI HypeHelix: A Vision-Language-Action Model for Generalist Humanoid ControlNew Polling Shows Americans Increasingly Disgusted With Elon MuskMEDIA CANDYThe WIld RobotThe GorgeSNL50: The Anniversary SpecialNorm Macdonald Documentary in the Works from Judd ApatowAmazon Gains Creative Control of James Bond FranchiseThe White LotusScamandaSly Lives! (aka The Burden of Black Genius)Reacher Season 3Marvel Is Exploring Bringing Back Other Defenders From NetflixNow We Know Exactly When The Last of Us Season 2 Is ComingApple’s Murderbot series starts streaming in MayApple says Severance has become its most popular show ever, overtaking Ted LassoWhy Do We Do That? PodcastAMC STUBS A-ListAPPS & DOODADSInk ConsoleInk Console is a portable e-ink gamebook consoleBluditNodeHostBrainHQImpulse - Brain TrainingAll of Humane's AI pins will stop working in 10 daysHorbäach Creatine Monohydrate Capsules | 3500mg | 300 Count | Non-GMO and Gluten Free SupplementCLOSING SHOUT-OUTSAndy Stochansky on IGSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

02-22

01:06:34

In this episode of Grumpy Old Geeks, Jason and Brian dive headfirst into the latest tech absurdities, financial scandals, and Elon Musk's ongoing chaos. We start with the annual frustration of unsubscribing from an email list that just won’t quit before jumping into the latest gem from Musk himself: "Some of the things that I say will be incorrect." Meanwhile, British IT worker James Howells is back with his ongoing quest to unearth his lost Bitcoin fortune—this time with a plan to buy the entire landfill where he thinks it’s buried. And despite all the corporate posturing about a return to office, remote work remains steady, much to the chagrin of commercial real estate moguls still waiting for the workforce to return.The Trump Coin debacle takes center stage, where early traders made a quick $109 million, but over 800,000 investors got wrecked to $2 billion. Adding to the dystopian financial landscape, Microsoft’s latest study finds that AI reliance makes people dumber, leading to cognitive atrophy as workers place too much trust in generative AI. Meanwhile, Thomson Reuters lands a major AI copyright win in the courts, striking a blow against legal AI startups. Over at Meta, the latest round of layoffs blindsided workers supposedly meeting performance expectations, proving that job security in tech is about as stable as Musk’s grasp on reality. A man in Alabama pleaded guilty to hacking the SEC’s X account to falsely announce Bitcoin ETF approvals, sending crypto markets on a rollercoaster ride.On the media front, Mythic Quest Season 4 is out, and we’re cautiously optimistic despite needing a breather after Season 2. The White Lotus returns, but can it survive without Stifler’s mom? Meanwhile, Karl Urban's role as Johnny Cage in Mortal Kombat II is a big win. Walmart’s acquisition of the Dawn of the Dead mall seems hilariously on-brand, while Netflix’s attempt at podcasting smells like another cost-cutting maneuver. Finally, in "good news," the odds of a newly discovered asteroid hitting Earth in 2032 are rising. At least it would mean an end to Jeep’s infuriating full-screen stoplight ads. Tune in for all this and more on Grumpy Old Geeks!Sponsors:DeleteMe - Head over to JoinDeleteMe.com/GOG and use the code "GOG" for 20% off.Private Internet Access - Go to GOG.Show/vpn and sign up today. For a limited time only, you can get OUR favorite VPN for as little as $2.03 a month.SetApp - With a single monthly subscription you get 240+ apps for your Mac. Go to SetApp and get started today!!!1Password - Get a great deal on the only password manager recommended by Grumpy Old Geeks! gog.show/1passwordShow notes at https://gog.show/684FOLLOW UPMan in Search of Lost Bitcoin Fortune Wants to Buy the Landfill Where He Swears It’s BuriedThere Hasn’t Been Much if Any Reduction in WFH in over Two Years, Despite the Hype about RTOEarly Crypto Traders Had Speedy Profit on Trump Coin as Others Suffered LossesIN THE NEWSMicrosoft Study Finds AI Makes Human Cognition “Atrophied and Unprepared”The Impact of Generative AI on Critical Thinking: Self-Reported Reductions in Cognitive Effort and Confidence Effects From a Survey of Knowledge WorkersMeta's job cuts surprised some employees who said they weren't low performersSilicon Valley Software Engineers Horrified as They Can't Easily Find Jobs AnymoreMan from Alabama pleads guilty over SEC's fake bitcoin post on XKanye West’s X Account Deactivated After He Declared “IM A NAZI” In Deluge Of AntisemitismShopify took down Kanye's swastika t-shirt shop, but another antisemitic storefront still operatesShopify says risk of fraud, not Nazi swastika, was reason for Kanye West store takedownScarlett Johansson Calls for New AI Laws After Fake Video of Her Goes ViralGoogle will use machine learning to try and tell if a user is under 18UK drops 'safety' from its AI body, now called AI Security Institute, inks MOU with AnthropicBuzzfeed is launching their own social networkApple Maps plans to show 'Gulf of America,' following GoogleGov. Pritzker Says Lake Michigan Is Now Called Lake IllinoisCourt orders the CDC and FDA to restore deleted web pages related to gender identityEFF sues Elon Musk and DOGE to block their access to federal employee data14 states sue DOGE, blasting Musk's 'unprecedented' power as unconstitutionalUSAID workers sue Musk and DOGE over ‘unconstitutional power grab’ that left agency in chaosUS aid freeze claims first victims as oxygen supplies cut offElon Musk's Waste.gov Is Just a WordPress Theme Placeholder PageFucking DOGE.gov...Robert Garcia drops a dick picWell, he is a dickAnderson Cooper Snaps At Trump-Defending Chris Sununu On Live TV: ‘Don’t Be A Dick’The Odds of a Newly Discovered Asteroid Hitting Earth in 2032 Keep RisingMEDIA CANDYNever Surrender: A Galaxy Quest DocumentaryWall of ChefsMythic QuestThe White LotusOur First Look at Mortal Kombat II Is Exactly the One You WantedWalmart Bought the Mall From Dawn of the Dead, Because Subtext Is for CowardsYouTube Surprise: CEO Says TV Overtakes Mobile as “Primary Device” for ViewingAPPS & DOODADSApple patches iPhone exploit that allowed for ‘extremely sophisticated' attackApple ordered to open encrypted user accounts globally to UK spyingApple finally lets you move your digital purchases to another accountTikTok is back on the App Store and the Play Store in the U.S.This is the First-Ever AI Image to Be Granted Copyright ProtectionApple Magic TrackpadBetter Touch ToolJeep Owners Furious Over Ads That Appear Everytime Their Car StopsAT THE LIBRARYTiny Blunders/Big Disasters: Thirty-Nine Tiny Mistakes That Changed the World Forever (Revised Edition) (Tiny Blunders/Big Disasters Series) by Jared KnottBarnes & Noble opening 60 bookstores this yearWe Are Legion (We Are Bob) (Bobiverse Book 1) by Dennis TaylorTHE DARK SIDE WITH DAVEDave BittnerThe CyberWireHacking HumansCaveatControl LoopOnly Malware in the BuildingDisney Parks’ Most Infamous Earworm Is Getting Its First Extended CutEnd of the penny? Trump tells Treasury to stop minting the coinAre pennies worth it? Trump's plan to scrap them didn't come out of nowhereThey talked about this twenty years ago on The West Wing.Getting rid of the penny introduces a new problem: nickelsBoycott TesslaDeport Elon - Red#DeportElon SubtleCLOSING SHOUT-OUTSBestselling novelist Tom Robbins dies at 92Jitterbug PerfumeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

02-15

01:27:27

This week, Jason and Brian dive into the chaos surrounding Elon Musk’s growing influence in government tech, with young engineers playing key roles in his takeover. DOGE employees are being ordered off Slack, USAID is crumbling, and Musk’s war with U.S. officials rages on. Meanwhile, AI takes center stage with the EU banning high-risk systems, DeepSeek’s security concerns, and Amazon throwing down $100 billion on AI advancements. Big Tech moves are equally absurd—Google is now open to AI-powered weapons, Meta might scrap risky AI models, and Tesla is struggling in Europe thanks to Elon’s latest blunders. Meanwhile, states are rushing to pour taxpayer money into so-called “strategic cryptocurrency reserves.”In entertainment, The Devil May Cry anime’s ridiculous theme song is a standout, Mythic Quest returns, and Beast Games looks promising. AI controversially helped The Beatles score a Grammy, and Denis Villeneuve is making Dune 3 because, well, fans demanded it. Over in reboot land, Sarah Michelle Gellar may return for a Buffy revival on Hulu with Chloé Zhao at the helm, while Neil Gaiman finds himself in serious legal trouble. Gadget fans get a look at the Anker Zolo charger, a Google search trick to dodge AI summaries, and Apple’s latest social feature. Also, say goodbye to Apple’s AR glasses before they even had a chance to shine.Dave Bittner joins The Dark Side segment with updates on cybersecurity, including a wave of ransomware payment refusals and the Andersons’ infamous eviction from Disneyland’s most exclusive club. Pirates in China, Disney park music, and tracking yourself via in-app ads round out the discussion. Closing out the show, a shout-out to Snap’s CEO for supporting LA wildfire recovery and a nod to SoberOutfitters for keeping things clean. Buckle up—it’s another wild ride with the Grumpy Old Geeks!Sponsors:DeleteMe - Head over to JoinDeleteMe.com/GOG and use the code "GOG" for 20% off.Private Internet Access - Go to GOG.Show/vpn and sign up today. For a limited time only, you can get OUR favorite VPN for as little as $2.03 a month.SetApp - With a single monthly subscription you get 240+ apps for your Mac. Go to SetApp and get started today!!!1Password - Get a great deal on the only password manager recommended by Grumpy Old Geeks! gog.show/1passwordShow notes at https://gog.show/683IN THE NEWSThe Young, Inexperienced Engineers Aiding Elon Musk's Government TakeoverMusk, Trump Prosecutor Targeting People Who Divulge Identities of DOGE StaffOne of Elon Musk's DOGE Kids Just Had an Explosive Screaming TantrumDOGE Engineer Resigns After Being Linked to Extremely Racist TweetsGovernment Tech Workers Forced to Defend Projects to Random Elon Musk BrosU.S. government officials privately warn Musk’s blitz appears illegalDOGE Employees Ordered to Stop Using Slack While Agency Transitions to Records System That Is Not Subject to FOIAElon Musk’s Enemy, USAID, Was Investigating Starlink’s Contracts in UkraineUSAID Workforce Slashed From 10,000 to Under 300 as Elon Musk’s DOGE Decimates AgencyGovernment agency removes spoon emoji from work platform amid protestsDeadline for Trump's federal worker buyout proposal temporarily blocked by judgeUS judge blocks Trump buyout program as 60,000 sign up to quitStates Are Racing to Throw Taxpayers' Money Into "Strategic Cryptocurrency Reserves"Police Use of Facial Recognition Backfires Spectacularly When It Renders Them Unable to Convict Alleged MurdererAI systems with 'unacceptable risk' are now banned in the EUDeepSeek iOS app sends data unencrypted to ByteDance-controlled serversOmniHuman-1Researchers created an open rival to OpenAI’s o1 ‘reasoning’ model for under $50Amazon doubles down on AI with a massive $100B spending plan for 2025Workday lays off 1,750 employees, citing demand for AILyft uses Anthropic's Claude chatbot to handle user complaintsTesla Sales in Europe Plummet Amidst Elon’s Stupid MeddlingTesla sees German car sales plunge in JanuaryVolkswagen is unveiling a $21,000 entry-level EV in MarchVolkswagon - The 2025 ID. Buzz electric busOne of Big Tech’s Angriest Critics Explains the ProblemGoogle Lifts Self-Imposed Ban on Using AI for Weapons and SurveillanceMeta says it may stop development of AI systems it deems too riskySonos lays off 200 ahead of rumored set-top box releaseAndreessen Horowitz Defends Hiring Subway Vigilante Who Became Right-Wing HeroMEDIA CANDYThe Devil May Cry Show’s Intro Song Is So Stupidly GloriousMythic QuestBeast GamesAI won The Beatles a Grammy 55 years after they broke upDenis Villeneuve Is Making Dune 3 Next Because You Want It‘Buffy The Vampire Slayer’ Reboot Starring Sarah Michelle Gellar Nears Hulu Pilot Order With Chloé Zhao DirectingNeil Gaiman Hit With Rape & Human Trafficking Suits After Months Of Allegations; Estranged Spouse Amanda Palmer Also Named In Multi-State FilingsAPPS & DOODADSAnker Zolo Portable Charger, 10,000mAh 30W Power Bank with Built-in Lanyard USB-C Cable for Travel, Fast Charging Battery Pack for iPhone 16/15 Series, MacBook, Galaxy, iPad, and MoreAdd F*cking to Your Google Searches to Neutralize AI SummariesApple reportedly gives up on its AR video glasses projectApple Invites Is a New Way to Remind Friends to Celebrate You750 WordsTHE DARK SIDE WITH DAVEDave BittnerThe CyberWireHacking HumansCaveatControl LoopOnly Malware in the Building50 Mission CrushA Lot of People Just Refused to Make Ransomware Payments in 2024: ReportThe Andersons were kicked out of Disneyland’s most exclusive club. They would not go willingly.Pirates in ChinaDisney Plus: Behind the AttractionDIsneyland: Music Around the ParksDisneyland MusicDIsneyland Park MusicI Don't Have SpotifyEveryone knows your location: tracking myself down through in-app adsCLOSING SHOUT-OUTSSnap CEO helps launch LA wildfire recovery programSoberOutfittersSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

02-08

01:24:51

Brian and Jason kick things off with a look at why Gen Z grads are getting fired just months after landing jobs and a curiously viral declassified CIA sabotage guide. Speaking of sabotage, U.S. students are struggling with their lowest reading scores in decades, raising questions about the future workforce. Meanwhile, Google Maps’ controversial renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to “Gulf of America” for U.S. users has sparked some amusing geopolitical tit-for-tats. In the AI wars, OpenAI is fuming over claims that DeepSeek trained its models using OpenAI’s own stolen data—ironic, given OpenAI’s history of scraping the internet. As if that weren’t enough, California’s Attorney General warns AI companies that nearly everything they’re doing might be illegal, while the Copyright Office suggests AI copyright issues were settled way back in 1965. Oh, and OpenAI is now in the nuclear weapons game. What could possibly go wrong?In tech and business news, CVS is making customers jump through app hoops to unlock cabinets, Uber claims it’s the victim of an elaborate fake crash scheme, and Tesla promises a robotaxi business and humanoid robots in 2025—though Musk admits current Teslas will need new hardware to achieve full self-driving. Whole Foods workers have formed their first union since Amazon took over, and MoviePass is considering a pivot to crypto, because of course it is. Meanwhile, Elon Musk’s ventures keep making headlines, and Waymo’s driverless taxis are facing vandalism in Southern California. Law enforcement in California is also in hot water, having misused state databases over 7,000 times last year.For media lovers, Star Trek: Section 31 is on the horizon, while The Expanse‘s first three seasons are vanishing from Amazon soon. Behind the Music is back, and Ladies & Gentlemen… 50 Years of SNL Music offers a deep dive into the show’s musical legacy. On the gaming front, classic titles like Spaceship Warlock and The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy are getting attention alongside newly accessible archives of 1,500 classic gaming magazines. The Night Agent Season 2 is here and it sucks, and Amazon is hiking the price of its Music Unlimited subscriptions. Finally, the episode wraps with a nod to Marianne Faithfull’s passing and China’s new “magic beans” shaking up American markets—because, in this chaotic world, even the beans are making headlines because AI wrote this terrible summary.Sponsors:Factor - Get started at FactorMeals.com/grumpy50off and use code grumpy50off to get 50% off your first box plus free shipping. Private Internet Access - Go to GOG.Show/vpn and sign up today. For a limited time only, you can get OUR favorite VPN for as little as $2.03 a month.SetApp - With a single monthly subscription you get 240+ apps for your Mac. Go to SetApp and get started today!!!1Password - Get a great deal on the only password manager recommended by Grumpy Old Geeks! gog.show/1passwordDeleteMe - Head over to JoinDeleteMe.com/GOG and use the code "GOG" for 20% off.Show notes at https://gog.show/682FOLLOW UPBosses are firing Gen Z grads just months after hiring them—here’s what they say needs to changeDeclassified CIA Guide to Sabotaging Fascism Is Suddenly ViralSimple Sabotage Field Manual by United States. Office of Strategic ServicesU.S. Students Post Lowest Reading Scores in DecadesIN THE NEWSGoogle Maps will rename Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America, but only for US usersGoogle Maps Adopted ‘Gulf of America’ Name, and Now Mexico Has Some SuggestionsDavid Sacks claims there's 'substantial evidence' that DeepSeek used OpenAI's models to train its ownOpenAI Furious DeepSeek Might Have Stolen All the Data OpenAI Stole From UsOpenAI suddenly thinks intellectual property theft is not cool, actually, amid DeepSeek’s riseExposed DeepSeek Database Revealed Chat Prompts and Internal DataThe Knives Are Coming Out for DeepSeek AICalifornia’s AG Tells AI Companies Practically Everything They’re Doing Might Be IllegalCopyright Office suggests AI copyright debate was settled in 1965OpenAI will offer its tech to US national labs for nuclear weapons researchHow one YouTuber is trying to poison the AI bots stealing her content'Everything I Say Leaks,' Zuckerberg Says in Leaked Meeting AudioMoviePass might pivot to cryptoWhole Foods workers form first union since Amazon acquisitionCVS tries to juice app signups with cabinet unlocking featureUber Claims It’s the Victim of an Elaborate Fake Car Crash SchemeTesla says it will begin robotaxi business and Optimus "pilot" production in 2025Elon Musk admits Teslas will need new hardware for FSDVandals in Southern California attack Waymo driverless taxiCalifornia Law Enforcement Misused State Databases More Than 7,000 Times in 2023MEDIA CANDYStar Trek: Section 31The Expanse‘s First 3 Seasons Are Leaving Amazon Very SoonAfter MidnightBehind the MusicLadies & Gentlemen... 50 Years of SNL MusicFRONT 242 - The Final Show Live at AB - Ancienne BelgiquePanic - The SmithsAmazon hikes prices for its Music Unlimited subscriptionsThe Night Agent Season 2APPS & DOODADSiOS 18.3 is here, with clearly labeled Apple Intelligence notification summariesStimulation ClickerPOTUS TrackerX’s payments app will be available later this yearGoogle's 'Ask for Me' feature calls businesses on your behalf to inquire about services, pricingAT THE LIBRARYNot Till We Are Lost (Bobiverse Book 5) by Dennis E. TaylorThe Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness, and Healing in a Toxic Culture by Gabor Maté & Daniel MatéTHE DARK SIDE WITH DAVEDave BittnerThe CyberWireHacking HumansCaveatControl LoopOnly Malware in the BuildingStar Wars: The Acolyte Was the Second Most Watched Show on Disney+ Last YearGravity FallsVGHF opens free online access to 1,500 classic game mags, 30K historic filesSpaceship WarlockBad Day on the MidwayThe Lost Dutchman’s Gold (1979)ZyllBushidoThe Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (video game)Star Wars: TIE FighterBladerunner 2049 AuctionThere's a Horse In The Hospital | John Mulaney | Netflix Is A JokeBeppo - SNLCLOSING SHOUT-OUTSChina’s new and cheaper magic beans shock America’s unprepared magic bean salesmenMarianne Faithfull, English Singer, Dead at 78See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

02-01

01:24:03

In this episode, Brian and Jason kick things off by highlighting the troubling state of the gaming industry, with 11% of developers laid off in 2024, according to a GDC survey. Meanwhile, Elon Musk finds a new way to perplex us all by admitting he pays people to play video games for him.They then unpack a whirlwind of news, including Trump’s controversial pardon of Silk Road creator Ross Ulbricht and his ongoing crusade against perceived social media bias. Elon Musk’s antics take center stage as he mocks America’s tech elite, clashes with Trump over the flashy “Stargate” AI project, and battles AI cost concerns as hype begins to wane. On the corporate front, Amazon halts drone deliveries after crashes, Instagram blocks political hashtags, and Neko, a body-scanning startup co-founded by Daniel Ek, secures a whopping $260M at a $1.8B valuation. In media candy, the hosts revisit the charming chaos of the Lilo & Stitch franchise and dive into music documentaries like Yacht Rock and Echo in the Canyon. And let’s not forget Netflix’s price hikes and yet another mediocre Star Trek installment with Section 31. Dave wraps things up with The Dark Side, covering Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, ham radio tools, and even a shoutout to Morse code. Packed with biting commentary, this episode is a mix of tech absurdity, media nostalgia, and the trademark Grumpy Old Geeks snark!Sponsors:Private Internet Access - Go to GOG.Show/vpn and sign up today. For a limited time only, you can get OUR favorite VPN for as little as $2.03 a month.SetApp - With a single monthly subscription you get 240+ apps for your Mac. Go to SetApp and get started today!!!1Password - Get a great deal on the only password manager recommended by Grumpy Old Geeks! gog.show/1passwordDeleteMe - Head over to JoinDeleteMe.com/GOG and use the code "GOG" for 20% off.Show notes at https://gog.show/681FOLLOW UPEleven percent of game developers were laid off in 2024, according to GDC surveyElon Musk Admits to Paying People to Play Video Games for HimIN THE NEWSJoe Rogan, Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos: Tech Titans, Celebs at InaugurationTrump Orders Government to Stop ‘Trampling’ Conservatives on Social MediaSilk Road Mastermind Ross Ulbricht Seen Leaving Prison Holding a Small PlantPresident Trump Pardons Silk Road Creator Ross Ulbricht After 11 Years in PrisonElon Musk Plays DOGE Ball—and Hits America’s Geek SquadInstagram blocked searches for #democrats and other political hashtagsWhy You May Automatically Be Following Trump and Vance NowAI-Generated Junk Science Is a Big Problem on Google Scholar, Research SuggestsWhat is the ‘Stargate’ AI project?Trump's $500 Billion AI Deal Includes Funding by UAE Royal Family Linked to Astonishing Number of Scandals, Including Human TortureTrump Showing Love to Sam Altman Is Clearly Driving Elon Musk Into a Jealous FurySatya Nadella says he’s ’good for $80 billion’ after Elon Musk claims Stargate Project doesn’t have the cashTrump staff ‘furious’ after Musk trashes AI projectAI Hype Is Dropping Off a Cliff While Costs Soar, Experts WarnAmazon puts its drone deliveries on hold following two crash incidents‘Neo-Nazi Madness’: Meta’s Top AI Lawyer on Why He Fired the CompanyApple must face suit over alleged policy of underpaying female workersAmazon to close Quebec facilities, but says it's not because of that new unionNeko, the body-scanning startup co-founded by Spotify's Daniel Ek, snaps up $260M at a $1.8B valuationMEDIA CANDYLilo & StitchLilo & Stitch 2 - Stitch Has a GlitchLeroy & StitchYacht Rock: A DOCKumentaryThe Wrecking Crew!Echo in the CanyonLolla: The Story of LollapallozaNetflix plans now cost between $8 and $25 after yet another subscription price hikeEverything to Remember Before Star Trek: Section 31Section 31 Is a Mediocre Action Movie, and an Even Worse Star Trek OneFail Better with David Duchovny - Catching Up with Gillian AndersonJames Cameron: Special Video Message at the SCSP AI+Robotics SummitAPPS & DOODADSIntroducing OperatorDeveloper Creates Infinite Maze That Traps AI Training BotsBest Cooking Equipment for Meal Kits (2025), Tested and ReviewedTrump Executive Order GeneratorAT THE LIBRARYThe Breakthrough Effect by Douglas E. RichardsNot Till We Are Lost (Bobiverse Book 5) by Dennis E. TaylorTHE DARK SIDE WITH DAVEDave BittnerThe CyberWireHacking HumansCaveatControl LoopOnly Malware in the BuildingStar Wars: Skeleton CrewHam Radio PrepHam StudyGLAARGGGMorseMorse Code - I Love YouParks on the Air ® (POTA)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

01-25

01:22:06

This week on Grumpy Old Geeks, Jason and Brian dissect the latest tech and cultural news, starting with a TikTok tempest. The Supreme Court’s decision to uphold a law potentially banning the app in the U.S. leaves the ball in Trump’s court, while TikTok’s CEO plans to attend his inauguration. As users flock to alternative Chinese apps and RedNote scrambles to hire English-speaking moderators, it seems the tech world is in chaos. Meanwhile, Mark Zuckerberg faces lawsuits over using pirated materials to train AI and continues to delete links to competitors like Pixelfed. Over in Europe, Elon Musk’s X is under scrutiny for its algorithm transparency, while celebs like Mark Ruffalo advocate for a fully open social media ecosystem. Add in news of Bluesky’s new photo-sharing app, Mastodon’s founder stepping back, and yet another study revealing rampant fakery in online job postings, and it’s a wild ride.In Media Candy, the geeks dive into the gritty charm of Silo, the Broadway movie hit Wicked, and the nostalgia of Jerry Springer: Fights, Camera, Action. They also discuss Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test Season 3 and reminisce about Blue Thunder and its TV adaptation. On the music front, dream pop enthusiasts will love their take on The 30 Best Dream Pop Albums, while Marvel fans get the scoop on the Daredevil: Born Again trailer. Plus, a nod to Real Coffee with Scott Adams and the real tea on Neil Gaiman.Finally, in Apps & Doodads, they break down the fallout from Sonos’ disastrous app launch and the FTC’s decision to ban General Motors from selling driving data. Musk’s antics make an appearance again with a bizarre spat involving leaked DMs and a revoked checkmark, and a curious gadget called the Gaming Pillow. Closing shout-outs honor legendary Brewers broadcaster Bob Uecker and visionary filmmaker David Lynch, both gone but never forgotten.Sponsors:DeleteMe - Head over to JoinDeleteMe.com/GOG and use the code "GOG" for 20% off.Private Internet Access - Go to GOG.Show/vpn and sign up today. For a limited time only, you can get OUR favorite VPN for as little as $2.03 a month.SetApp - With a single monthly subscription you get 240+ apps for your Mac. Go to SetApp and get started today!!!1Password - Get a great deal on the only password manager recommended by Grumpy Old Geeks! gog.show/1passwordShow notes at https://gog.show/680IN THE NEWSSupreme Court upholds law that could ban TikTok in the U.S., leaving the matter to TrumpTikTok C.E.O. Plans to Attend Trump InaugurationTikTok Users Are Flocking to Another Chinese Social Media App as U.S. Ban LoomsRedNote Scrambles to Hire English-Speaking Content ModeratorsDonald Trump Has Mark Zuckerberg By the BallsLawsuit says Mark Zuckerberg approved Meta's use of pirated materials to train Llama AIMeta admits it deleted links to decentralized Instagram competitor PixelfedEurope orders Elon Musk’s X to submit documents on its recommendation algorithmsCelebs and tech luminaries including Mark Ruffalo want to create a fully open social media ecosystemBluesky is getting its own photo-sharing app, FlashesMastodon’s founder cedes control, refuses to become next Musk or Zuckerberg1 in 5 Online Job Postings Are Either Fake or Never Filled, Study FindsZuckerberg Announces Plans to Automate Facebook Coding Jobs With AIMeta to Cut Roughly 5% of Staff, Targeting Lowest PerformersAI Will Spew Gas Fumes for Years Before the Nuclear Revolution Takes OffStudy Links Frequent AI Use With Lower Critical Thinking AbilitiesWalgreens Regrets Replacing Fridge Doors With Smart Screens, Creating Techno-Dystopia VibesLongevity-Obsessed Tech Millionaire Discontinues De-Aging Drug Out of Concerns That It Aged HimJudge Ends One Man’s 11-Year Quest to Recover $765 Million in Bitcoin by Digging Up a LandfillPolicy Proposal for Trump’s Bitcoin Stockpile LeaksMEDIA CANDYSiloWickedJerry Springer: Fights, Camera, ActionSpecial Forces: World's Toughest Test Season 3Blue ThunderBlue Thunder: The SeriesThe 30 Best Dream Pop AlbumsReal Coffee with Scott AdamsThere Is No Safe WordMarvel Television's Daredevil: Born Again | Official Trailer | Disney+APPS & DOODADSSonos CEO Patrick Spence falls on his sword after horrible app launchFTC bans General Motors from selling driving data without permissionElon Musk Throws Tantrum After Being Exposed by Gamers, Leaks YouTuber's DMs and Seemingly Takes Away His CheckmarkGaming Pillow - Caffeine for your armsMob Control for iOSCLOSING SHOUT-OUTSBeloved Brewers broadcaster Bob Uecker dies at age 90David Lynch, 'Blue Velvet' Director, Dead at 78See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

01-18

01:04:41

In Episode 679 of Grumpy Old Geeks, titled "Set Sanity to Zero," Brian and Jason discuss the latest developments in tech, culture, and innovation. The episode opens with a look at Watch Duty, a wildfire-tracking app that has surpassed ChatGPT to take the top spot on the App Store amid California’s wildfire crisis. They also cover local news, including the arrest of an arson suspect in Woodland Hills, CA, and tech entrepreneur Kevin Rose’s home in the Palisades that is making headlines.The hosts delve into major tech stories that are dominating the news cycle. Former MoviePass CEO Ted Farnsworth pleads guilty to defrauding investors, marking the latest chapter in the infamous saga of the subscription service. Meanwhile, the UK takes bold action with new legislation criminalizing the creation and distribution of sexually explicit deepfakes. Meta finds itself at the center of multiple controversies, from appointing UFC CEO Dana White to its board to removing fact-checkers in favor of community-driven moderation, a decision that sparks backlash and leads to significant user departures from Facebook and Instagram. The darker side of tech is also examined, with reports of Meta Smart Glasses being used in a terror attack and generative AI contributing to a Tesla Cybertruck explosion.The podcast also explores groundbreaking applications of AI and its potential. An innovative method from a Reddit user for automating 1,000 job applications while asleep catches attention, along with discussions about the Getty Images and Shutterstock merger aimed at addressing AI’s disruption in the stock photography industry. E-commerce trends take center stage, with Salesforce data indicating AI-driven sales growth during the holiday season, despite increasing return rates. The episode also discusses Tesla’s “Actual Smart Summon” crashes currently under federal investigation and OpenAI’s rapid response to a developer creating AI-powered gun turrets.In conclusion, Brian and Jason provide entertainment and tech recommendations. Their streaming choices include "Silo," "The Traitors UK" Season 3, and "Shrinking," while gaming highlights showcase the Nintendo Switch and "Super Mario Bros. Wonder." They also feature apps like ChowNow and TiVo’s comeback as an OS on Sharp TVs. For book enthusiasts, the "At the Library" segment presents a variety of daily meditations and sci-fi titles. With its rich mix of tech insights, current events, and cultural commentary, Episode 679 is essential listening for anyone interested in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.Sponsors:DeleteMe - Head over to JoinDeleteMe.com/GOG and use the code "GOG" for 20% off.Private Internet Access - Go to GOG.Show/vpn and sign up today. For a limited time only, you can get OUR favorite VPN for as little as $2.03 a month.SetApp - With a single monthly subscription you get 240+ apps for your Mac. Go to SetApp and get started today!!!1Password - Get a great deal on the only password manager recommended by Grumpy Old Geeks! gog.show/1passwordShow notes at https://gog.show/679FOLLOW UPWatch DutyWatch Duty surpasses ChatGPT as top free app on App Store as California fires spreadKevin Rose Palisades HouseArson suspect arrested in Woodland Hills near Kenneth FireIN THE NEWSMoviePass Ex-CEO Pleads Guilty to Defrauding InvestorsNew UK law would criminalize creating sexually explicit deepfakesMeta adds UFC CEO and Trump booster Dana White to its boardMeta Cracks Down on Internal Dissent Against Appointment of UFC’s Dana White to BoardMeta Smart Glasses First Big Cultural Moment Is a Terror AttackMan who exploded Tesla Cybertruck outside Trump hotel in Las Vegas used generative AI, police sayMan Applies To 1,000 Jobs Using AI While Asleep, Wakes To Surprising OutcomesFacebook Caught Hosting AI-Powered HitlerMark Zuckerberg tells Fox News that Meta will "get rid of fact checkers" in latest appeal to TrumpGoogle searches for deleting Facebook, Instagram explode after Meta ends fact-checkingMeta’s Fact-Checking Partners Say They Were ‘Blindsided’ by Decision to Axe ThemFeds investigate Tesla’s ‘Actual Smart Summon’ after several crashesOpenAI Shuts Down Developer Who Made AI-Powered Gun TurretGetty Images, Shutterstock gear up for AI challenge with $3.7 billion mergerAI-influenced shopping boosts online holiday sales, Salesforce data showsMEDIA CANDYSiloThe Traitors UK S3Dexter Original SinShrinkingSex EducationThe Mayfair WitchesCunk on LifeTetrisPlease Don't Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy MountainAPPS & DOODADSChowNowApple promises software update to address Apple Intelligence notification summary complaintsTiVo OS is coming to the US on Sharp TVsNintendo SwitchSuper Mario Bros WonderAT THE LIBRARY3zekiel by Peter CawdronThe Daily Pressfield: A Teaching a Day from the Author of the War of Art by Steven PressfieldA Calendar of Wisdom: Daily Thoughts to Nourish the Soul by Leo TolstoyThe Daily Laws: 366 Meditations on Power, Seduction, Mastery, Strategy, and Human Nature by Robert GreeneThe Daily Stoic: 366 Meditations on Wisdom, Perseverance, and the Art of Living by Ryan Holiday365 Tao: Daily MeditationsThe Daily Drucker: 366 Days of Insight and Motivation for Getting the Right Things Done by Peter F. DruckerAround the Year with Emmet Fox: A Book of Daily Readings by Emmet FoxThe Maxwell Daily Reader: 365 Days of Insight to Develop the Leader Within You and Influence Those Around You by John C. MaxwellThe Elements of Humor: The Tools of Comedy that Make You Funnier, Happier, and Better Looking by Scott DikkersA Conventional Boy: A Laundry Files Novel (Laundry Files, 13)The Laundry Files: an updated chronologyTHE DARK SIDE WITH DAVEDave BittnerThe CyberWireHacking HumansCaveatControl LoopOnly Malware in the BuildingSkeleton CrewGame of Thrones Star Reportedly Set to Replace Ray Stevenson in Star Wars: Ahsoka Season 2Siri “unintentionally” recorded private convos; Apple agrees to pay $95MFlexible Flyer Metal Runner Sled. Steel & Wood Steering Snow SliderDave Bittner shares his President Carter storySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

01-11

01:24:13

WordPress has officially jumped the pineapple, forcing users to agree that pineapple belongs on pizza to log in. Critics call it a kindergarten move, especially when serious feature requests are ignored. Meanwhile, the crypto world is celebrating its new political allies, but experts warn we’re inching toward a financial apocalypse that taxpayers will be stuck cleaning up. On the East Coast, people are mistaking stars for drones while pilots dodge lasers in what’s shaping up to be the plot of a bad sci-fi movie. Oh, and crop circles? Yeah, they’re back because why the hell not?Elsewhere, TikTok’s battle for survival heads to the Supreme Court, and Character.ai faces backlash for hosting chatbots based on school shooters. Meta’s EU drama escalates over its failure to tackle terrorist content, and Arizona is ditching teachers for AI because who needs humans when you’ve got algorithms?On the media front, we break down the Star Trek: Lower Decks finale, geek out over Silo’s two-season endgame, and get hyped for Dune: Prophecy and a fresh Superman teaser. Tech talk includes Temu dominating app downloads, Microsoft killing passwords in favor of passkeys, and Spotify pulling a fast one with “ghost artists” to dodge royalties.On the Dark Side with Dave, we explore the cooler corners of ham radio, AI’s chokehold on creativity, and how surveillance turns your brain into mush. Meanwhile, Amazon’s return-to-office disaster has employees ready to riot, and sci-fi fans can gear up for Peter Cawdron’s Minotaur, the next big hit in his First Contact series.Sponsors:Mint Mobile - Get a new 3-month premium wireless plan for just 15 bucks a month at MintMobile.com/Grumpy. DeleteMe - Head over to JoinDeleteMe.com/GOG and use the code "GOG" for 20% off.1Password Extended Access Management - Check it out at 1Password.com/grumpyoldgeeks. Secure every sign-in for every app on every device.Private Internet Access - Go to GOG.Show/vpn and sign up today. For a limited time only, you can get OUR favorite VPN for as little as $2.03 a month.SetApp - With a single monthly subscription you get 240+ apps for your Mac. Go to SetApp and get started today!!!1Password - Get a great deal on the only password manager recommended by Grumpy Old Geeks! gog.show/1passwordShow notes at https://gog.show/678FOLLOW UPTo Log Into WordPress, You Now Have To Agree Pineapple on Pizza Is GoodCrypto Got What It Wanted in November’s Election. Now What?Dimwit Americans Are Looking at the Night Sky and Mistaking Stars and Airplanes for "Drones"“We Are Getting Lasered”: Nearly a Dozen Planes Lasered Last Night During New Jersey Drone PanicIN THE NEWSUS Supreme Court agrees to hear TikTok’s ban appealCharacter.ai Lets Users Role Play With Chatbots Based on School ShootersPeople Are Making AI Versions of Luigi Mangione That Call for Slaying of More CEOsGoogle says customers can use its AI in 'high-risk' domains, so long as there's human supervisionExclusive: Google's Gemini is forcing contractors to rate AI responses outside their expertiseInstagram’s head says social media needs more context because of AIMore than 140 Kenya Facebook moderators diagnosed with severe PTSDArizona School’s Curriculum Will Be Taught by AI, No TeachersMeta put on watch over terrorism content in the EUMicrosoft Confirms Password Deletion For 1 Billion Users—Attacks Up 200%EU privacy regulator fines Meta 251 million euros for 2018 breachCambridge Analytica scandal still lingering on as Meta settles with Australian usersFTC bans hidden junk fees in short-term lodging, live-event ticket pricesGrubhub settles with the FTC over adding restaurants without their consentElon Musk, SpaceX reportedly under federal review for undisclosed meetings with foreign leadersAmazon’s RTO delays exemplify why workers get so mad about mandatesMEDIA CANDYStar Trek: Lower Decks finaleDune: ProphecySuper/ManSuperman Teaser TrailerSilo Was Just Renewed for Two Final SeasonsBad Monkey season 2 is coming to Apple TV+Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was...New Report Alleges Spotify Is Filling Playlists with Ghost Artists to Minimize Royalty CostsHysterical PodcastOur Fake History PodcastAPPS & DOODADSTemu is the most-downloaded app on the U.S. App Store in 2024Surprise, Surprise: No One Is Buying an iPhone for Apple IntelligenceAT THE LIBRARY3zekiel by Peter CawdronFeedback by Peter CawdronTHE DARK SIDE WITH DAVEDave BittnerThe CyberWireHacking HumansCaveatControl LoopOnly Malware in the BuildingOnline Amateur Radio CommunityHamfursMen In The US Are Peeing Incorrectly According To UrologistThe psychological implications of Big Brother’s gazeThe Algorithm Has Been Hiding Something From You | NYT OpinionHelpful products for the voice from Ana Gasteyer. biotène Dry Mouth Lozenges for Dry Mouth and Fresh BreathVoice37 - Singers Voice RemedyLubricity Dry Mouth Oral SpraySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

12-21

01:19:28

In this episode, Jason DeFillippo and Brian Schulmeister dig into the Hawk Tuah meme coin disaster and where influencer-driven crypto schemes go off the rails, leaving chaos in their wake. They unpack WP Engine’s big win against Automattic in a high-stakes WordPress legal battle and take a closer look at Waymo’s rapid rise to match Lyft’s market share in San Francisco.The discussion heats up with GM’s decision to shut down its troubled Cruise robotaxi brand, Amazon’s bold move into the car-selling business with Hyundai, and reports of mysterious car-sized drones over New Jersey raising more questions than answers. They also dive into Google’s new quantum chip, Willow, which promises to rewrite the rules of computing and science.On the legal and policy front, the guys covers Apple’s billion-dollar lawsuit over abandoned child safety tools, updates to the Kids Online Safety Act, and Google’s push to break Microsoft’s grip on OpenAI’s cloud hosting. Meanwhile, LG’s exit from the Blu-ray market marks the end of an era, and MasterClass’s new AI-powered mentorship platform points to the future of learning.In Media Candy they spotlight upcoming releases like The Wheel of Time season three, Reacher season three, and the new documentary Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story. They also revisit music nostalgia with an acoustic set from the Descendents and a deep dive into the origins of pop-punk.Finally, they tackle a troubling lawsuit involving a chatbot allegedly influencing a teen’s behavior and the emotional fallout from a failed robotic companion for kids. This episode is packed with tech updates, big moves, and a glimpse into the evolving digital landscape. Don’t miss it!Sponsors:Mint Mobile - Get a new 3-month premium wireless plan for just 15 bucks a month at MintMobile.com/Grumpy. DeleteMe - Head over to JoinDeleteMe.com/GOG and use the code "GOG" for 20% off.1Password Extended Access Management - Check it out at 1Password.com/grumpyoldgeeks. Secure every sign-in for every app on every device.Private Internet Access - Go to GOG.Show/vpn and sign up today. For a limited time only, you can get OUR favorite VPN for as little as $2.03 a month.SetApp - With a single monthly subscription you get 240+ apps for your Mac. Go to SetApp and get started today!!!1Password - Get a great deal on the only password manager recommended by Grumpy Old Geeks! gog.show/1passwordShow notes at https://gog.show/677FOLLOW UPExposing the hawk tuah scamHowie Mandel’s Son-In-Law Behind Disastrous 'Hawk Tuah Girl' Meme Coin LaunchThe Hawk Tuah Memecoin Rug Pull Is The Apotheosis Of Bag CultureWP Engine wins preliminary injunction in WordPress legal battleWaymo's market share is now equal to Lyft within SF.IN THE NEWSGM ends support for Cruise robotaxisAmazon Is a Car Dealership NowMystery "Car-Sized" Drones Reach the Skies of New YorkPentagon says mystery drones over New Jersey are 'not US military,' not likely foreignWhat do we know about the mysterious drones reported flying over New Jersey?White House: Drones are manned aircraft; NJ lawmakers say that's not what they were toldMeet Willow, our state-of-the-art quantum chipApple sued for failing to implement tools that would detect CSAM in iCloudX helped senators update the Kids Online Safety Act so it can't be ‘used to stifle expression’Google Asks Feds to Kill Microsoft’s Cloud Hosting Deal With OpenAIAI Firm’s ‘Stop Hiring Humans’ Billboard Campaign Sparks OutrageBogus AI-Generated Bug Reports Are Driving Open Source Developers NutsHow Cryptocurrency Turns to Cash in Russian BanksCloudflare 2024 Year in ReviewMEDIA CANDYThe Wheel of Time Spins Back Up Again in March 2025Day of the JackalLionessSiloDune ProphecyShrinkingLower DecksReacher Season 3AfraidInside Out: Dream ProductionsMusic by John WilliamsBeatles ‘64Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve StoryApple Music expands its live radio offerings with three new stationsDescendents go Acoustic! | Taylor Guitars SoundcheckWHO INVENTED POP-PUNK??Before Dookie 1: How Punk Became Pop (1976-87)Before Dookie 2: How Punk Became Pop (1988-94)LG stops making Blu-ray players, marking the end of an era — limited units remain while inventory lastsAPPS & DOODADSApple Watch just gained a helpful new feature for inspiring you to stay activeWSKEN for Apple Watch Ultra 2/Ultra Screen Protector 49mm,9H Tempered Glass + Titanium Alloy Frame, [Keep Original] [Touch Sensitive] Lightweight Protective Film iwatch 2 Pack,OriginalGoogle Wallet can now hold your US passportMasterClass On Call gives you on-demand access to AI facsimiles of its expertsMom sues after AI told autistic son to kill parents for restricting screen timeStartup will brick $800 emotional support robot for kids without refundsDvorak: Symphony No. 9 in E MinorDashaun Wesley - Labels! Out Now!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

12-14

01:00:00

We dive into the TikTok ban drama, Elon Musk’s Tesla pay controversy, and a Chinese ship crew allegedly sabotaging undersea cables. In the news, the former Celsius CEO pleads guilty, Canadian media takes on OpenAI, and Elon Musk wants to rein in ChatGPT. Plus, drug smugglers with Starlink, Meta’s nuclear ambitions, and Apple spying allegations. For media candy, we’ve got Dune: Prophecy, Rings of Power shake-ups, and a Harry Potter baking showdown. In apps & doodads, Spotify’s CEO is richer than Taylor Swift, Cybertruck complaints hit the snow, and Walmart’s $2.3B Vizio deal closes. At the library, check out Starter Villain and learn why “brain rot” is the Oxford word of the year. Finally, on The Dark Side with Dave, it’s malware madness, radioactive toys, and indie Christmas tunes. Don’t miss it!Sponsors:HelloFresh - Get 10 FREE meals at HelloFresh.com/freegogDeleteMe - Head over to JoinDeleteMe.com/GOG and use the code "GOG" for 20% off.1Password Extended Access Management - Check it out at 1Password.com/grumpyoldgeeks. Secure every sign-in for every app on every device.Private Internet Access - Go to GOG.Show/vpn and sign up today. For a limited time only, you can get OUR favorite VPN for as little as $2.03 a month.SetApp - With a single monthly subscription you get 240+ apps for your Mac. Go to SetApp and get started today!!!1Password - Get a great deal on the only password manager recommended by Grumpy Old Geeks! gog.show/1passwordShow notes at https://gog.show/676FOLLOW UPTikTok Ban Upheld In Court‪@davidfindlay.bsky.social‬Investigators say a Chinese ship’s crew deliberately dragged its anchor to cut undersea data cablesElon Musk’s massive, multi-billion-dollar Tesla pay package was blocked by a judge againIN THE NEWSFormer Celsius CEO pleads guilty to two fraud chargesCanadian news organizations sue OpenAI for ChatGPT copyright infringementElon Musk asks court to stop OpenAI from becoming a for-profitOpenAI CEO 'not that worried' about Elon Musk's influence in Trump administrationDrug Smugglers Caught With $4.25 Billion Worth Of Meth Were Using SpaceX Starlink for NavigationX says The Onion can’t have Alex Jones’ Infowars accountsAmazon secretly slowed deliveries, deceived anyone who complained, lawsuit saysMeta jumps aboard the nuclear-powered data center bandwagonEmployee lawsuit accuses Apple of spying on its workersMEDIA CANDYA Man on the InsideDune: ProphecyLOTR: The Rings of PowerLord of the Rings: Rings of Power’s Adar actor Joseph Mawle explains why he’s quit seriesHarry Potter: Wizards of BakingHarry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament of HousesAPPS & DOODADSThe FTC is investigating Uber for its subscription policiesSpotify CEO Daniel Ek Is Richer Than Any Musician—Yes, Even Taylor SwiftWhere's our friend in the hoodie when we need him?Walmart closed its $2.3 billion acquisition of TV maker VizioCybertruck Owner Complains About Snow Blocking His HeadlightsAT THE LIBRARYStarter Villain by John ScalziCold Eyes - First Contact by Peter CawdronBeacon 23 by Hugh Howey‘Brain rot’: Oxford word of the year 2024 reflects ‘trivial’ use of social mediaTHE DARK SIDE WITH DAVEDave BittnerThe CyberWireHacking HumansCaveatControl LoopOnly Malware in the BuildingStar Wars: Skeleton CrewCaptain EORadioactive 'Most Dangerous Toy in History' Goes on SaleGilbert U-238 Atomic Energy LaboratoryBitter Americans React to UnitedHealthcare CEO’s MurderUnitedHealth FB Group's Post80s(ish) Alternative ChristmasIndie ChristmasNoelTernative 90s Alt Rock ChristmasClassical ChristmasA Christmas Together - John Denver & the MuppetsChipmunks ChristmasSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

12-07

01:18:28

Welcome to our Thanksgiving Weekend Blast from the Past! This is a cleaned-up replay of our very first Thanksgiving with Tim Ferriss. We hope you enjoy and we’ll be back next week in all of our Grumpy Glory!This week, author Tim Ferriss is our special guest. Tim sat with us for an hour, and we talked about his new show on HLN, his fantastic new book club, cool stuff about the quantified self, sleep hacking, and more. We even got a story that wasn't in the books!Sponsors:Mint Mobile - Get a new 3-month premium wireless plan for just 15 bucks a month at MintMobile.com/Grumpy. DeleteMe - Head over to JoinDeleteMe.com/GOG and use the code "GOG" for 20% off.Private Internet Access - Go to GOG.Show/vpn and sign up today. For a limited time only, you can get OUR favorite VPN for as little as $2.03 a month.SetApp - With a single monthly subscription you get 240+ apps for your Mac. Go to SetApp and get started today!!!1Password - Get a great deal on the only password manager recommended by Grumpy Old Geeks! gog.show/1passwordSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

11-30

01:08:41

In this episode of Grumpy Old Geeks, we dive into the wild, wacky, and often worrying world of tech, media, and everything in between. From a Swiss church using AI to preach the gospel to OpenAI facing a copyright conundrum, and a DNA testing company ghosting its customers, the news is packed with surprises. We also explore Neuralink’s Canadian trials, bizarre domain drama between Alex Jones and The Onion, and why Google might be forced to part ways with Chrome. Plus, a study reveals Tesla’s troubling accident stats, and Germany investigates an undersea sabotage.On the media front, we break down The Old Man, The Day of the Jackal, and Ken Burns’ deep dive into Leonardo da Vinci. Catch teasers for How to Train Your Dragon and The Studio, while Apple TV+ and streaming giants reshuffle strategies. In the gaming and cinema crossover universe, the Minecraft Movie and Silo Season 2 are making waves.We also geek out over Perplexity’s new shopping tool, Bluesky’s rise to 21 million users, and the evolving quirks of Threads and X. Meanwhile, Ghosts by Peter Cawdron lands on our reading list, and Dave Bittner brings the dark side of cybersecurity into focus, including reverse-engineered iPhone hacks and Graykey’s tech secrets.In closing, we pay tribute to Thomas E. Kurtz, co-creator of BASIC, and share some lighthearted shout-outs to the schmactors of the world. Tune in for all the grump and geek you love!Sponsors:HelloFresh - Get 10 FREE meals at HelloFresh.com/freegog1Password Extended Access Management - Check it out at 1Password.com/grumpyoldgeeks. Secure every sign-in for every app on every device.DeleteMe - Head over to JoinDeleteMe.com/GOG and use the code "GOG" for 20% off.Private Internet Access - Go to GOG.Show/vpn and sign up today. For a limited time only, you can get OUR favorite VPN for as little as $2.03 a month.SetApp - With a single monthly subscription you get 240+ apps for your Mac. Go to SetApp and get started today!!!1Password - Get a great deal on the only password manager recommended by Grumpy Old Geeks! gog.show/1passwordShow notes at https://gog.show/675IN THE NEWSDeus in machina: Swiss church installs AI-powered JesusThere’s No Longer Any Doubt That Hollywood Writing Is Powering AIOpenAI accidentally deleted potential evidence in NY Times copyright lawsuitDNA testing company vanishes along with its customers' genetic dataNeuralink gets approval to start human trials in CanadaThe Weirdest Domains Alex Jones Has to Give to The OnionDOJ: Google must sell Chrome to end monopolyTrump Admin Reportedly Wants to Unleash Driverless Cars on AmericaStudy Finds Tesla Has Higher Rate of Fatal Accidents Than Any Other CarGermany says cut undersea data cables were sabotagedAnyone Can Buy Data Tracking US Soldiers and Spies to Nuclear Vaults and Brothels in GermanyMicrosoft is building wooden data centers to slash carbon emissionsMEDIA CANDYJake Paul vs. Mike Tyson Did Super Bowl Viewership NumbersThe Old ManThe Day of the JackalLeonardo da Vinci by Ken BurnsThe Studio — Official Teaser | Apple TV+Apple TV+ will license its movies to other services to reduce lossesHow To Train Your Dragon | Official Teaser TrailerHow to Train Your Dragon Director Justifies the Live-Action Film’s ExistenceA Minecraft Movie | Official TrailerSilo S2Kingdom Uncovered: Inside Saudi ArabiaDune: ProphecyWilliam Shatner’s Captain Kirk Faces a Long Goodbye in This Stunning Star Trek Anniversary Short765874 - Unification (4K)Daniel Ek just cashed out $35.8 million in Spotify shares. But that’s nothing compared to his co-founder… who just cashed out $383.8 million.Dashaun Wesley: LabelsElon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy Promise New Podcast to Discuss Destruction of U.S. GovernmentAPPS & DOODADSIntroducing Shop with PerplexityApple Lost the Plot on TextingBluesky hits 20 million usersBluesky CEO Jay Graber says X rival is 'billionaire proof'Bluesky Post Count and Author StatsThreads will prioritize accounts you follow instead of randosAT THE LIBRARYGhosts (First Contact) by Peter CawdronTHE DARK SIDE WITH DAVEDave BittnerThe CyberWireHacking HumansCaveatControl LoopOnly Malware in the Building‘Star Wars: Visions’ Renewed for Season 3 at Disney+Researcher reverse engineers iPhone's Inactivity Reboot featureLeaked Documents Show What Phones Secretive Tech ‘Graykey’ Can UnlockThomas E. Kurtz, a Creator of BASIC Computer Language, Dies at 96CLOSING SHOUT-OUTSSchmactorsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

11-23

01:22:36

In this episode of Grumpy Old Geeks, we break down the latest chaos in tech, pop culture, and humanity’s never-ending quest to out-stupid itself. Hackers are raiding Ticketmaster accounts (again), and Chegg is circling the drain after ChatGPT obliterated its business model. Meanwhile, Amazon is hawking boner pills that tanked Hims’ stock, 23andMe is laying off nearly half its staff, and Bluesky is quietly stealing users who’ve had it with Elon’s dumpster fire over at X.Driverless Waymo cars take over LA, nuclear safety gets outsourced to AI, and Apple wants to track your luggage with AirTags (but only on planes they like). Oh, and let’s not forget Mark Zuckerberg’s bizarre karaoke moment with Get Low.On the pop culture front, The Penguin finale cements it as TV’s best comic book adaptation, Moana smashes Disney streaming records, and The Beatles are back—kind of—thanks to AI. Plus, Mattel accidentally linked kids’ toys to a porn site, and some genius in a bear costume is faking car accidents for insurance money. It’s all as dumb, messy, and oddly entertaining as you’d expect. Tune in for the snark, stay for the schadenfreude!Sponsors:HelloFresh - Get 10 FREE meals at HelloFresh.com/freegog1Password Extended Access Management - Check it out at 1Password.com/grumpyoldgeeks. Secure every sign-in for every app on every device.DeleteMe - Head over to JoinDeleteMe.com/GOG and use the code "GOG" for 20% off.Private Internet Access - Go to GOG.Show/vpn and sign up today. For a limited time only, you can get OUR favorite VPN for as little as $2.03 a month.SetApp - With a single monthly subscription you get 240+ apps for your Mac. Go to SetApp and get started today!!!1Password - Get a great deal on the only password manager recommended by Grumpy Old Geeks! gog.show/1passwordShow notes at https://gog.show/674FOLLOW UPHackers Keep Stealing Tickets From People’s Ticketmaster AccountsTrump Media Execs Dumped Millions in Stock After the ElectionStudy Finds Eggs Might Protect Brain Health And Lower CholesterolIN THE NEWSFTX bankruptcy estate sues Anthony Scaramucci, FWD.us, othersChegg Is On Its Last Legs After ChatGPT Sent Its Stock Down 99%AI travel influencers are here. Human travelers hate it.Bluesky reaches 15 million users; people look for alternatives to XJason on BlueskyBrian on BlueskyGrayskyBluesky scoops up the developer of popular third-party app, Graysky23andMe is laying off 40 percent of its staffAmazon Gets Into the Boner Pill Business, Hims Stock Goes LimpWaymo's driverless cars in LA County are now available to everyoneTelecom Builds AI ‘Grandmother’ Bot to Talk to Phone Scammers and Waste Their TimeAnthropic, feds test whether AI will share sensitive nuclear infoNew artificial intelligence search solution deployed at Diablo Canyon Power PlantThe Manhattan Project (1986)AI Expert Warns Crash Is Imminent As AI Improvements Hit Brick Wall'Hawk Tuah' girl launches Pookie Tool, an AI-powered dating advice app, and it's fine?The Onion Purchases Alex Jones’ InfoWars in Bankruptcy AuctionMEDIA CANDYCountdown: Paul vs. TysonPaul vs. TysonSuper League: The War for FootballShrinkingNobody Wants ThisSilo Season TwoMoana is Disney’s Biggest Movie on Streaming EverThe Penguin Finale Cemented It as One of the Best Comic Book Shows EverThe Beatles are nominated for two Grammys thanks to AIGates McFadden InvestiGates: Who do you think you are?ERIC SAYSThe story of Love And Rockets, the former Bauhaus members who helped sell goth to AmericaMark Zuckerberg Just Released a Cover of Lil Jon's "Get Low" and Yes, He Says the Line About BallsSpotify’s Plans For AI Generated Music, Podcasts, and Recommendations, According To Its Co-President, CTO, and CPO Gustav SöderströmAPPS & DOODADSGood News: Instagram Chief Says App Won’t Refresh Right When You Open It AnymoreMeta Will Get Its Unwanted Day in Antitrust CourtApple Has Begun Selling iPhone 16 Replacement PartsApple teams up with airlines for new ‘Share Item Location’ AirTags feature in iOS 18.2"Wicked" toys from Mattel featuring link to porn site pulled from shelves, now available on eBaySound Studio 4RedactTangle NewsAT THE LIBRARYThis photography book shows people just standing in front of Danzig's houseBeacon 23: The Complete Novel by Hugh HoweyTHE DARK SIDE WITH DAVEDave BittnerThe CyberWireHacking HumansCaveatControl LoopOnly Malware in the BuildingAndor Will Gloriously Rebel Once More in April 2025Andor Season 2 Will Pit Your Favorite Miserable Imperials Against Each OtherHow to migrate from X to Bluesky without losing your followersPerson dressed in bear costume to fake attacks on cars for insurance payout, California officials say.CLOSING SHOUT-OUTSTony Todd, ‘Candyman’ and ‘Final Destination’ Actor, Dead at 69Tony Todd Made One of Deep Space Nine‘s Greatest Episodes ShineHappy Birthday Gigi Edgley!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

11-16

01:22:29

Just Some of the Topics Covered in this Episode:Copyright Lawsuit Dismissal: A federal judge dismissed a copyright lawsuit against OpenAI, filed by news outlets claiming misuse of their content in AI model training.Truth Social’s Stock Drop: Despite a political victory for Donald Trump, shares in his media platform, Truth Social, have plummeted by 22%, leaving investors wary of its future value. Layoffs Roundup:Mozilla Foundation reduces its workforce by 30%, affecting advocacy and global programs.iRobot (makers of Roomba) lays off 105 employees following Amazon’s abandoned acquisition attempt.Nissan announces 9,000 job cuts and a CEO pay reduction by 50%.Tech Housing Crisis in San Francisco: High demand for $700 monthly pod-style beds emphasizes the city’s ongoing housing struggles.NYT Strikes and AI Replacement Controversy: The CEO of Perplexity offered to replace striking New York Times staff with AI, sparking debate over ethical implications.Disney’s New Tech Office: Disney establishes an Office of Technology Enablement focused on AI, AR, and VR, led by former NFL tech executive Jamie Voris.Meta’s Halted Nuclear-Powered Data Center: Meta’s plans for a nuclear-powered data center face delays due to environmental concerns, including a rare bee species found at the site.AI’s Real-World Impact: Thousands in Dublin fell for an AI-generated fake Halloween parade announcement, demonstrating AI’s unintended consequences in misinformation.Canadian TikTok Ban: Canada mandates TikTok to shut down operations, impacting the social media giant’s presence in the country.Australia’s Proposed Social Media Ban for Minors: Legislation aims to limit under-16 access to social media, pushing for stricter age verification.Tesla Summon Feature Update Malfunction: A Tesla owner’s vehicle becomes immobile due to recent software changes, highlighting software update issues in electric cars.Sponsors:Mint Mobile - Get a new 3-month premium wireless plan for just 15 bucks a month at MintMobile.com/Grumpy. DeleteMe - Head over to JoinDeleteMe.com/GOG and use the code "GOG" for 20% off.Private Internet Access - Go to GOG.Show/vpn and sign up today. For a limited time only, you can get OUR favorite VPN for as little as $2.03 a month.SetApp - With a single monthly subscription you get 240+ apps for your Mac. Go to SetApp and get started today!!!1Password - Get a great deal on the only password manager recommended by Grumpy Old Geeks! gog.show/1passwordShow notes at https://gog.show/673FOLLOW UPOpenAI defeats news outlets' copyright lawsuit over AI training, for nowTruth Social Stock Is Crashing Even Though Trump WonIN THE NEWSMozilla Foundation cuts 30 percent of its staffiRobot lays off another 105 employeesNissan is laying off 9,000 workers and giving its CEO a pay cutSan Francisco Startup Sees Big Demand for Sleeping Pods That Cost $700 a MonthPerplexity CEO offers to replace striking NYT staff with AIStriking ‘NYT’ workers are asking you to skip Wordle—but they made other games for you to playDisney forms dedicated AI and XR group to coordinate company-wide use and adoptionEndangered bees stop Meta’s plan for nuclear-powered AI data centerAI Slop Website Sent Thousands of People to a Halloween Parade That Didn’t ExistNew report details ‘vast spying’ by China-linked telecom hackersCanada orders TikTok to shut down its business operations in the country due to 'national security risks'Australia proposes 'world-leading' ban on social media for children under 16Tesla updated its summon feature. Now this owner can’t get to his car.Google has no duty to refund gift card scam victims, judge findsNvidia ousts Intel from Dow Jones Index after 25-year runNorth Korean Soldiers Deployed to Ukraine Reportedly "Gorging" on Uncensored Internet's PornMEDIA CANDYAI Replaced All the Staff at a Radio Station in PolandYou can now post tracks to TikTok from Spotify and Apple MusicSquid Game: Season 2 | Official Teaser | NetflixThe Apprentice - An American Horror StoryThe Diplomat Season 2THE CURE :: SONGS OF A LOST WORLD :: FULL LIVE STREAMAPPS & DOODADSAmazon Kindle Colorsoft e-reader shipping is cancelledX now lets blocked users see your postsAI Has Come for Sweet, Innocent NotepadNew Apple repair program will fix iPhone 14 Plus' rear camera issue for freeiPod fans evade Apple’s DRM to preserve 54 lost clickwheel-era gamesApple Acquires Photo Editing Software Company PixelmatorAmazon reportedly bumped back its AI-powered Alexa to next yearWant to make a website look like Windows 98? You'll be needing 98.cssTHE DARK SIDE WITH DAVEDave BittnerThe CyberWireHacking HumansCaveatControl LoopOnly Malware in the BuildingGuy calls the ISS with an Amateur RadioA New Star Wars Trilogy Is Coming, and It Could Be Episodes 10, 11, and 12Police Freak Out at iPhones Mysteriously Rebooting Themselves, Locking Cops OutCLOSING SHOUT-OUTSGreg Hildebrandt, iconic Star Wars and Lord of the Rings artist, has died at 85Quincy Jones, music legend who shaped Michael Jackson's career, dies at 91Voice of AOL’s Iconic ‘You’ve Got Mail’ Alert Dies at 74See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

11-09

01:13:04

Cash App class action; Tesla camera-based FSD questioned; Trump Media stock swings; standing desks are the new eggs; Dropbox layoffs; OpenAI Whisper invents parts of transcriptions, frequently; ChatGPT search; post scarcity AI BS; AI coding ouroboros of confusion; Musk crypto scams; Underworld; The Cure; A Man on the Inside; the Diplomat; Instagram throttles video quality; META to fill feeds with more AI; SetApp; Echoes of Extinction; Polostan; the Cube Rule of food identification; Disney hack; this is Halloween.Sponsors:HelloFresh - Get 10 FREE meals at HelloFresh.com/freegog1Password Extended Access Management - Check it out at 1Password.com/grumpyoldgeeks. Secure every sign-in for every app on every device.Private Internet Access - Go to GOG.Show/vpn and sign up today. For a limited time only, you can get OUR favorite VPN for as little as $2.03 a month.SetApp - With a single monthly subscription you get 240+ apps for your Mac. Go to SetApp and get started today!!!1Password - Get a great deal on the only password manager recommended by Grumpy Old Geeks! gog.show/1passwordShow notes at https://gog.show/672FOLLOW UPCash App users can claim thousands of dollars in a data breach settlementElon Musk May Have Made a Huge Mistake on Full Self-Driving That It's Too Late to CorrectIN THE NEWSTrump's social media company is now worth more than Musk's X after recent surge in stock priceTrump loses $1.3 billion in net worth after the worst-ever day for his social media stockStanding Desks Aren’t Just Useless—They Might Also Be Bad for Your HealthFacebook Is Auto-Generating Militia Group Pages as Extremists Continue to Organize in Plain SightDropbox is laying off 20 percent of its workforceOpenAI's Whisper invents parts of transcriptions — a lotIntroducing ChatGPT searchOpenAI CEO Sam Altman says lack of compute capacity is delaying the company's productsGoogle CEO says a quarter of the company’s new code is already AI generatedOpen-source AI must reveal its training data, per new OSI definitionElon Musk Fans Are Losing So Much Money to Crypto ScamsMEDIA CANDYUnderworld - Strawberry HotelThe Cure - Songs of a Lost WorldA Man on the InsideAPPS & DOODADSMosseri confirms Instagram reduces video quality for posts that aren’t raking in viewsMark Zuckerberg Pledges to Fill Facebook With Even More AI SlopFeds Recall Humane AI Pin Charger Due to Fire RiskFrom Goodreads' founder, Smashing debuts its AI-powered app for online readersSmashingSign up for SetApp today!Mac Geek Gab PodcastObsidianUlyssesCraftApple NotesAT THE LIBRARYDestiny: Echoes of Extinction: Book 4 by D. Ward CornellNexus: A Brief History of Information Networks from the Stone Age to AI by Yuval Noah HarariTHE DARK SIDE WITH DAVEDave BittnerThe CyberWireHacking HumansCaveatControl LoopOnly Malware in the BuildingSkeleton Crew | Official Trailer | Disney+The Cube Rule of Food IdentificationA fired Disney employee allegedly altered menus to change allergy markersCLOSING SHOUT-OUTSJeri Taylor, Co-Creator of Star Trek: Voyager, Dies at 86Teri Garr, Star of ‘Young Frankenstein’ and ‘Tootsie,’ Dies at 79See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.