Technically Working

Technically Working – Episode 136: Burnout, Barbecue, and Back at It Summary In this reflective and lively episode, Michael and Damashe return to their usual unscripted banter after a series of guest interviews. They dive into confessions, personal updates, and rediscovering balance in life and work. Damashe admits the Technically Working site still isn’t live, citing exhaustion and carpal tunnel issues. Michael talks about post-cruise laziness and guide dog emergencies. The duo chat about productivity cycles, tech frustrations, health challenges, and how life (and sometimes Siri) doesn’t cooperate. Damashe also shares what it's like traveling for conventions and being recognized by listeners, while Michael recounts his cruise and convention chaos. They wrap with a deep dive into member management tools for WordPress and appreciation for their tip jar supporters. Highlights 🎙️ Confession time: The website is still not live — and why. 🧠 Productivity and burnout: Damashe struggles with energy levels, sleep issues, and navigating burnout. 🥩 Barbecue blues: It’s been over a year since Damashe lit his grill — and it’s hitting hard. 🚢 Michael’s cruise adventure: Accessibility wins and fails, and yes, he worked on vacation. 🐕 Titan’s tooth trouble: Guide dog vet emergencies are expensive. 💳 Michael makes Damashe spend money on vacation: Preordering the Zoom PodTrack P4 Next. 🌐 Convention updates: ACB Oregon, Washington, and Houston — listener shoutouts included! 🛠️ Tool talk: Podcast setups, tech rants, and a detailed debate over Paid Memberships Pro vs MemberPress. 📈 Audience growth: Episode numbers are climbing, and listener engagement is strong. 🗣️ Shoutouts: New and long-time listeners, tip jar supporters, and significant others — you rock. Tools & Services Mentioned Zoom PodTrack P4 Next Paid Memberships Pro (PMP) MemberPress Gravity Forms Stripe WordPress local dev tools: Valet, WP Migrate Apple Watch sleep tracking Costco melatonin Farago, Audio Hijack Feedback? Drop us a line: feedback@technicallyworking.show Support the Show Want to keep us caffeinated (or help pay off those vet bills)? Visit technicallyworking.show and click the tip jar. Support Technically Working by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/technically-working Find out more at https://technically-working.pinecast.co Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/technically-working/287fcf0d-6de8-468f-acbe-4b12838cd12c Check out our podcast host, Pinecast. Start your own podcast for free with no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Technically Working.

Episode Notes A relaxed, gear-forward wrap-up with Damashe, Steven, and Michael: we talk favorite portable keyboards, why a tidy desk matters (especially when you’re done optimizing for TV backdrops), and how changing screen-reader pricing/models ripple across the community. Along the way we compare headsets, celebrate NVDA, reminisce about third-party Twitter apps, and poke fun at shipping hacks and world travel plans. Highlights ProtoArc Tri-Fold keyboard (with numpad) Folds small, charges over USB-C, pairs to 3 devices with one button. Paging/Editing keys (PgUp/PgDn/Home/End/Delete) sit in a vertical strip between the main keys and numpad. Verdict from Steven: “Sold.” Damashe: “It’s been my favorite.” Studio reset > comfort over cameras Steven’s annual clear-out: retire “dead cables,” stop designing the room for TV backdrops, and optimize for radio/podcasting comfort. One-cable desk: laptop on a Belkin 11-in-1 wedge dock; power and peripherals route out the back so you unplug just one cable and go. Headsets & open-ear audio Damashe’s pick: Shokz OpenComm (OpenComm/OpenComm UC). Bone-conduction, comfortable, hardware mute button that works with Zoom/Teams—perfect for “mute-and-talk-to-the-cats” moments. Steven’s rotation: OpenComm boom when it counts; otherwise inexpensive open-ear “TrueFree” style buds (à la OpenFit/OpenFit Air). Caveat: if you don’t use them daily, they’ll be dead when you need them. Screen readers, pricing, and real-world choices UK JAWS “Home” subscription discussed as ~£420/year with no monthly option—raising hard questions for home users. Many will weigh NVDA more seriously; workplaces may still fund JAWS, but at home, cost and consistency matter. Michael notes he’s productive with JAWS plus add-ons (e.g., Leasey), but could script NVDA add-ons for what he needs. Sustainability & “single-developer” risk Open projects like NVDA thrive on community—but dependence on a few key people is a risk. Corporate stability (e.g., Vispero) helps, yet platform owners can break hooks/APIs at any time. Platforms that shift under our feet X/Twitter cut third-party apps—many accessibility gaps those apps filled never returned. Google’s habit of retiring products makes people wary (Gemini likely safe; everything else… maybe). Pixel leaks are practically a calendar feature. Chromebooks: fast for web, but hard to justify versus a Windows PC or a discounted M1 MacBook Air when prices climb. Travel & life bits October is packed: conventions (NFB state events, Texas), cruises, and training new employees. Future trip goals: Scotland soon—and Giza by 2028 for the pyramids promise. Mentions ProtoArc Tri-Fold Keyboard with numpad Belkin 11-in-1 wedge dock Shokz OpenComm / OpenComm UC NVDA, JAWS, Leasey (JAWS productivity add-ons) Twitterrific, Spring (third-party Twitter clients, RIP) Google Gemini / Nest, Chromebook/ChromeBox MacBook Air (M1) Follow Double Tap Double Tap Newsletter Support Technically Working by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/technically-working Find out more at https://technically-working.pinecast.co Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/technically-working/de4de5fa-9dc0-4594-b071-f05c2fc0f126 Check out our podcast host, Pinecast. Start your own podcast for free with no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Technically Working.

Episode Notes We continue our conversation with Stephen Scott from Double Tap about why unscripted, human-first shows resonate. Stephen shares how he and Sean decide what’s worth airing, why consent and care with guests matter, and how their new newsletter and “Extra” feed create space for deeper, sometimes non-tech discussions. We dig into person-first identity, balancing the social and medical models of disability, and why nuance and personal responsibility beat one-size-fits-all advocacy. Highlights Pre-show judgment calls: Hold topics until there’s enough perspective—or a third voice—to do them justice. Let conversations breathe: A planned ACB chat became a powerful, unscripted deep-dive on prosthetic eyes. Consent & care: Check in with guests when things get personal; offer pre-release review for sensitive segments. Newsletter → “Extra”: A site and monthly email for quick catch-up, plus a companion podcast for tougher conversations that don’t quite fit Double Tap’s daily tech focus. Boundaries on hot-button topics: Keep the core tech-centric while handling politics/religion with care and context. People before labels: Person-first identity, with descriptors used for discovery—not definition. Social and medical models: Society should fix barriers (e.g., ramps); individuals can adapt with tools (e.g., reading menus)—both responsibilities matter. Advocacy without monoculture: One blind person’s view is just that—avoid pretending a single voice speaks for all. Perspective changes everything: From on-train demos to travel that reshapes assumptions; curiosity > echo chambers. Algorithms & attention: Feeds nudge extremes; resist by seeking opposing views and valuing nuance. Support Technically Working by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/technically-working Find out more at https://technically-working.pinecast.co Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/technically-working/dc21cca7-c1bf-4c5b-afc7-856094929442 Check out our podcast host, Pinecast. Start your own podcast for free with no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Technically Working.

Episode Notes This week's episode is part 1 of a multipart recording featuring Steven Scott of Double Tap. Michael hears voices in his head, Steven and Damashe discuss the aftermath of coping with being in car wrecks, and how Steven got on as a camera man in his youth. Support Technically Working by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/technically-working Find out more at https://technically-working.pinecast.co Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/technically-working/6e869e13-ab77-40b1-aa01-fe6950895832 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Technically Working.

Michael and Damashe are back with a mix of tech talk, audio experiments, and laughs. Michael tests out two Shure microphones live on air (can you tell which is which?), shares what he learned from running a hybrid event, and rolls out a smart new feature in his automation tool, Builder—because yes, user feedback really does shape updates. They dive into why investing in your craft (and your gear) pays off, the art of delegation, and how small process fixes make big differences. Damashe also reveals why he’s paying for search with Kagi and what makes the Helium browser worth a look. Whether you’re a gearhead, builder, or productivity nerd, this one’s for you. 💡 Plus: download numbers are up, vacation plans are brewing, and there’s a reminder that sometimes “no new features” is the best feature of all. Support Technically Working by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/technically-working Find out more at https://technically-working.pinecast.co Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/technically-working/6663fa31-ab7a-482c-a6ff-fd27fbd0aa57 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Technically Working.

In this episode, Michael and Damashe dive into a grab bag of experiments, frustrations, and a few eerie surprises in the world of AI and audio. <h4>Topics Covered</h4> 🎤 Mic Talk & Audio Gear Michael tests the Shure Beta 87A and debates keeping his wireless setup, while the guys swap stories about missing adapters, mic stands, and shock mounts. 🤖 AI Voices Gone Rogue Things take a weird turn when one of Michael’s AI voices starts adding its own opinions. The duo tests multiple Google Gemini TTS voices—some sound scarily real, others... develop personalities. 🧠 New AI Tools: HUX, Lere, and Apple Intelligence Damashe tries out HUX (an audio summary app from former Google Notebook LM engineers) and runs into some accessibility issues. They also chat about Apple Intelligence in Lere and how AI summarization is creeping into RSS reading. 🐍 Python + PySide6 on macOS 26 Michael shares how ChatGPT helped him build a Python GUI to manage Google AI Studio’s TTS system—and the quirks that come with macOS 26 compatibility. 💻 macOS 26, Homebrew Fixes, and Remote Screen Sharing Damashe upgrades early to macOS 26.0.1, discovers improved screen sharing, and finds creative ways to connect remotely with Tailscale. 🧩 Gravity Forms, Gravity Wiz, and Building Tools the Smart Way From API connectors to booking add-ons, the pair geek out over how Gravity Forms’ ecosystem can (almost) run an entire business website—if you can afford all the plugins. 💬 Closing Thoughts & Listener Shoutouts The hosts thank their Tip Jar supporters, remind listeners not to spend money they don’t have (even if it’s tempting), and share a good laugh about accidental listener spending sprees. <h4>Mentioned Tools & Topics</h4> Shure Beta 87A, SM58, SM7B Google Gemini 2.5 Pro TTS PySide6 + Keyring for Python HUX app (by ex-Google team) Lere RSS Reader Gravity Forms, Gravity Wiz, Gravity Kit macOS 26 screen sharing with Tailscale Bedrock Innovations IVR experiment <h4>Episode Summary</h4> From AI voices that argue back to macOS updates that move your Safari tabs, this episode is a mix of practical tinkering and unpredictable AI fun. Whether you're into audio gear, accessibility, or the future of digital voices, TW131 brings laughs, lessons, and a reminder: always double-check what your AI is saying. Would you like me to add a short promotional blurb (2–3 sentences) for the podcast feed and website too? Support Technically Working by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/technically-working Find out more at https://technically-working.pinecast.co Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/technically-working/7b58f6ba-aa32-407e-9f25-bb590ba61d31 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Technically Working.

Show Notes Michael and Damashe dig into real-world audio and workflow upgrades—why Cleanfeed’s aux routing can quietly reset, how the DJI wireless kit performs (32-bit float, monitoring quirks, accessibility gaps), and when handheld SM58s beat Beta 58s for live/hybrid rooms. Damashe talks through pre-ordering the Meta Oakley Vanguard (and why the Seeing AI partnership nudged him), then shares first-hand notes from flashing GrapheneOS on a Pixel—eSpeak’s direct-boot advantage, practical setup caveats, and who this is actually for. Plus: Zoom H6 Studio vs. H6 Essential (hello, physical gain knobs), Windows 10 life support via ZeroPatch, and a simple plan to keep UTM links consistent when you reshare site content. Highlights Cleanfeed gotcha: Aux output mapping can revert when a guest reconnects—double-check before relying on a backup/stream path. DJI Wireless notes: dual TX, on-unit recording, 32-bit float, line-out monitoring; menu accessibility is limited. Live sound choice: SM58 handhelds for forgiving pickup and crowd control; add disposable windscreens for shared mics. Zoom H6 Studio: larger XY mics, physical gain knobs, 32-bit float or 16/24-bit mode, clearer layout for quick tweaks. GrapheneOS on Pixel: open-source, stronger posture; you’ll need sighted help during install; eSpeak enables speech at boot. Meta Oakley Vanguard: interest driven by Access API and Seeing AI tie-in—buy for what it does now, not just potential. Remote event tip: Always get an off-site listener to sanity-check your mix; in-room monitoring can mislead. UTM consistency: Prefer a simple builder (inside WP or a script) so source/medium names stay uniform over time. Win10 after EOL: Consider ZeroPatch if you must stay put—but be cautious online regardless. Rough Chapters 00:00 Cleanfeed aux routing & backup recording 04:30 DJI Wireless kit: hardware tour & monitoring 17:45 Meta Oakley Vanguard pre-order & Access API musings 28:50 Zoom H6 Studio vs. H6 Essential 39:05 SM58 wireless set & live-room strategy 45:35 Remote sound-check best practices 47:00 Double Tap appearance & misc. follow-ups 50:00 Windows 10 options (ZeroPatch) 54:40 GrapheneOS setup, eSpeak, and security takeaways 1:08:15 UTM link-building idea for consistent sharing Say hi: @damashe@technically.social • Follow updates: @tw@technically.social Feedback: feedback@technicallyworking.show (Thanks for listening—and extra thanks to Tip Jar supporters for keeping the mics on.) Support Technically Working by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/technically-working Find out more at https://technically-working.pinecast.co Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/technically-working/1de8e85e-4d98-4bf2-8595-7128d6d4b111 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Technically Working.

• Backup recordings that save the day: Audio Hijack vs. Reaper, why Cleanfeed still sounds great, and how one Safari input setting ruined a “perfect first take.” • Smart glasses roundup: – Meta Display now has a screen reader and an Access API. Why that could open the door to third-party apps and what it might mean for Envision and other niche devices. – Real-world wants: trigger descriptions without saying “Hey Meta,” FaceTime/Zoom/Meet compatibility, and using glasses as a true external camera. – Ray-Ban/Oakley interest: better cameras and battery life make them tempting. Ship dates and why Mike probably won’t have them for the cruise. – Samsung rumors: watching the late-month event to see how XROS-based glasses might change the landscape. • iPhone 17 Pro Max first impressions: – Trade-ins, in-store luck, and day-one battery life that actually lasts. – The new camera button (and ideas like mapping Seeing AI), plus the action button still set to ring/silent for now. – USB-C is still the quality-of-life upgrade that changes everything. – Apple Intelligence tied to ChatGPT: handy that Siri queries show up in your ChatGPT history… until they clutter it. • AirPods and Apple Watch: – Eyeing AirPods Pro (3rd gen) for smaller size, better ANC, and battery bumps. – SE is a solid value; Ultra 3 is appealing for battery and the physical action button—no new sensors this year, lots of ML-driven insights. • Privacy and platforms: – Using AI where it’s strongest, keeping assistants in their lanes, and tying AI apps to shortcuts/action buttons for real device control. • Domestic interlude: – Potato-and-sausage crock-pot soup (Tabasco optional). Turkey or beef swap works. • Quick bugs and fixes: – macOS Calculator chatters “left-to-right mark” with VoiceOver. For quick math, use LaunchBar. For deeper work, try Soulver. Nerds: PCalc. • Housekeeping and how to reach us: – Tip Jar keeps the lights on (and maybe funds a pair of smart shades). If you’re enjoying the show, head to technicallyworking.show and chip in. – Feedback: feedback@technicallyworking.show – Mastodon: Michael = Payown @ dragonscave.space • Demasi = Demasi @ technically.social – Follow the bot for episode posts: TW @ technically.social • P.S. – If you work at Meta (or any smart-glasses team) and want real-world feedback, we’re happy to test. Listeners picking up the Meta Display or new Oakleys—tell us how you’re using them. Support Technically Working by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/technically-working Find out more at https://technically-working.pinecast.co Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/technically-working/7041682d-a3ec-4971-913a-0bc291f22a41 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Technically Working.

In this episode, Michael and Damashe kick things off by comparing recording setups with Cleanfeed, Reaper, and Audio Hijack before diving into a spontaneous story about nose injuries and streaming credentials. The conversation shifts to gear talk, including Ben’s upcoming birthday gifts—a Sennheiser Profile microphone, boom arm, and windscreen—and why headset mics didn’t make the cut. Michael and Damashe share candid opinions on the Sennheiser Profile versus classics like the ATR2100X, with plenty of laughs about Amazon “streaming bundles” and discontinued favorites. They also chat about e-bikes, Twitch streaming versus YouTube, and what makes an affordable but effective setup for creators just getting started. If you enjoy a mix of tech banter, practical gear advice, and a dose of humor, this episode has it all. Support Technically Working by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/technically-working Find out more at https://technically-working.pinecast.co Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/technically-working/1b99af94-b925-405b-9688-78b9c815508f This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Technically Working.

In this episode of Technically Working, Michael and Damashe dive into email management frustrations and fixes. From 1Password’s latest quirks with VoiceOver on iOS to hidden keystrokes in Mac Mail, they share practical tips to keep your inbox manageable. Michael experiments with Keyboard Maestro to make the delete key archive instead of trash, while Damashe drops shortcuts you probably didn’t know existed. They also chat about UPS shipping tricks, buying gear on eBay without getting burned, and whether Apple is overreaching—or finally catching up—in AI. With Apple’s September event on the horizon, the guys weigh in on what’s coming with new iPhones, Watches, and maybe even AirPods with health tracking. Got a take on the next iPhone or a favorite automation trick? Reach out and let us know what’s working for you. Support Technically Working by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/technically-working Find out more at https://technically-working.pinecast.co Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/technically-working/4a97314c-8e1c-47ea-b3f5-064ec00428dc This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Technically Working.

Michael hunts down a mystery whining noise in his studio and walks through a clean, step-by-step troubleshooting plan: strip the setup to basics, test the Vocaster solo, then re-introduce the mixer and cabling one piece at a time. We talk about when gear isn’t designed for how screen reader users actually use it, and what to do when a board might be internally crosstalking. Backup plan if the mixer’s down? Michael may swap to a Soundcraft; Damashe offers a loaner. TipJar bonus this week: a concise Reaper tutorial from Michael on saving projects the smart way—defaults, folder structure, and why it’s always FLAC. We compare render times (Intel Windows vs Apple silicon), touch on Windows on ARM machines and battery life, and swap notes on iZotope tools (D-Verb love, when Dialog Isolate shines). Then we nerd out about real-time translation: Google’s call demo, Microsoft’s past Skype magic, and Michael’s hands-on with Meta Ray-Bans translating Spanish in the wild. iOS 26 chatter: a friendlier Phone app, voicemails in the calls list, and the delightfully simple “Set as Ringtone” from an audio message. Also: SharePlay memories, dictation auto-capitalizing hashtags, and Mastodon clients we like. Shout outs to Garth (ReaProducer, Reaper wiki crew), Jacob, Robin, and Sean. Thanks to every listener spreading the show. If your podcast app lets you rate, that helps a ton. Want to go the extra mile? Add “Technically Working” to your email signature or share a link on social—tag #TechnicallyWorking with the T and W capitalized for screen reader clarity. Get in touch Email: feedback@technicallyworking.show Mastodon: Michael is payown at dragonscave.space, Damashe is damashe at technically.social Follow the bot for new episode posts: twatecniche at technically.social TipJar Subscribers get the Reaper “Save Projects Like a Pro” mini-episode and notes. Not a member yet? You’ll get early, practical extras that make your audio life easier. Support Technically Working by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/technically-working Find out more at https://technically-working.pinecast.co Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/technically-working/f412eb0f-9dde-4b5e-983b-7b8d93819005 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Technically Working.

In this episode of Technically Working, Michael and Damashe dig into the messy world of search, messaging apps, and productivity tools: Search and Safari Limits – Why Safari won’t let you set a truly custom search engine and how paid options like Kagi might be worth a look for cleaner, ad-free results. Keyboard Maestro Adventures – Michael finally convinced a friend to try Keyboard Maestro. The two share tips on disabling default macros, using ChatGPT for macro ideas, and avoiding the “Command+Tab hijack” surprise. Ad Overload and Usability Woes – A candid rant on how ads and cluttered websites break the browsing experience, and why many sites are losing trust with readers. Playing With Android – Michael activates a Samsung phone and runs headlong into AT\&T’s frustrating two-factor process, sparking a bigger conversation on usability and accessibility. VoIP and Short Code Roadblocks – Damashe shares insights from Doug on handling SMS for 2FA with VoIP numbers, SIM card workarounds, and forwarding solutions. Signal vs. WhatsApp – A deep dive into what works and what frustrates in both apps, from voice message playback speeds and call quality to cluttered interfaces and cross-device limitations. Beeper and Consolidation – Exploring how Beeper (now owned by Automattic) tries to unify messaging apps like Signal, WhatsApp, Google Messages, and more. BSI Braille Input – Michael and Damashe trade notes on Braille Screen Input across iOS and Android, including iOS 18’s expanded command mode. Passwords and Productivity – From being locked out after updates to GitHub’s new AI agents, the duo talk about tools that make workflows smoother—and the risks when they don’t. Community Thanks – A shout-out to tip jar supporters, reminders to rate the show in your favorite podcast app, and a call for listener feedback on search engines, messaging apps, and accessibility quirks. Feedback is always welcome at feedback@technicallyworking.show, or connect on Mastodon: Michael: @payown@dragonscave.space Damashe: @damashe@technically.social Bot updates: @tw@technically.social Hashtag your thoughts with #TechnicallyWorking so we can join the conversation! Support Technically Working by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/technically-working Find out more at https://technically-working.pinecast.co Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/technically-working/fc965623-67ba-4d7a-98bd-faba1aba5b2c This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Technically Working.

In this episode of Technically Working, Michael and Damashe cover a mix of retro tech, cutting-edge wearables, and coding experiments: Perkins Brailler Talk – Michael’s newly repaired Perkins returns home, and the guys reminisce about fixing braillers, paper jams, and carrying them through school hallways. Smart Glasses Showdown – A deep dive into Solos, Ally, Envision, Meta Ray-Bans, and even AGIGA. They discuss features, battery life, pricing, accessibility concerns, and why customization matters for blind users. Prompt Injection & AI in Glasses – Michael raises questions about prompt customization, injection risks, and the possibilities of tailoring AI outputs in wearable tech. Home Networking & Automation – Damashe’s new Ubiquiti gear sparks talk about segmenting networks, smart homes, and moving toward Home Assistant. Builder Saga – Michael shares progress (and setbacks) with rebuilding his scheduling tool, working through PRDs, Supabase, and GitHub remote agent experiments. Vibe Coding & Rubber Duck Debugging – They unpack what “vibe coding” really means, why talking through problems often reveals solutions, and how collaboration (or even a rubber duck) helps. Community Feedback – Listeners weigh in on show length preferences and using BlindShell Classic to tune in. As always, they wrap with laughs, real-world coding tips, and appreciation for listeners supporting the show. Support Technically Working by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/technically-working Find out more at https://technically-working.pinecast.co Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/technically-working/56c408fc-ab10-402f-a702-27967dd73269 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Technically Working.

Michael and Damashe are back on CleanFeed, comparing its quirks to past recording tools and sharing detailed backup recording setups using Loopback, Reaper, and Audio Hijack. They swap tips for reliable audio capture, even without pro gear, and reflect on painful experiences re-recording lost segments. The conversation shifts to the launch of GPT-5, how it’s performing in GitHub Copilot, and strategies for using AI to clean up and streamline code without breaking functionality. Then they dig into messaging—debating Apple’s role in RCS adoption, privacy concerns around WhatsApp’s encryption claims, and the dream of a truly unified messaging world. Along the way: vending machines, hotel check-ins with remote staff, loyalty points that don’t add up, and why sometimes it’s worth trimming episodes to a tighter runtime.

TW122: Pocket Casts Juggling, Audio Experiments & Building a Tech‑Savvy Team In this episode of Technically Working, Damashe and Michael dive into practical experiments, tool comparisons and community announcements. Here’s what you’ll hear: 🧪 Audio experiments with Zoom H5 and iPhone 15 Pro Portable recording setup – Damashe connects a Zoom H5 Studio recorder to an iPhone 15 Pro running an early iOS 26 beta and discovers that multi‑track mode causes the phone to hear VoiceOver but not his microphone. Switching the recorder from multi‑track to stereo resolves the issue. Why it matters – They discuss how important it is to test gear before critical recordings and remind listeners that mobile interfaces may behave differently across iOS and Android. 🎧 Pocket Casts deep‑dive and cross‑device realities Trying out a new player – Michael compares Pocket Casts to his long‑time favourite Castro/Overcast. He likes the statistics (hours listened vs. saved) and subscribes to 56 shows after trimming his massive OPML file. Filters and queue management – He uses the “New” filter to see fresh episodes and explains how the “Up Next” tab tells you how long it will take to finish your queue. Michael also notes you can enable Play on tap in Settings to start an episode immediately from the queue. Sync quirks across devices – Pocket Casts doesn’t consistently resume playback when switching between the iPhone and Pixel. Damashe observes that about 40 % of the time it works correctly; otherwise the episode restarts. They hope future updates will improve background syncing. Accessing trials – Michael shares a tip for redeeming a two‑month Premium trial: if Apple’s store blocks the offer because of a previous subscription, open the link in Android’s Play Store instead. 👥 Hiring, training and generative AI Building a team – Damashe is hiring a new employee and realizes he needs to keep recruiting rather than stop after filling one slot. He recounts meeting drivers through Uber who might become part‑time helpers. Generative AI training – They joke about clipping an Insta360 camera to record vending‑machine maintenance and using ChatGPT or other models to generate training videos. Michael even sets a reminder in Agent‑mode to revisit the idea and tries to track his TikTok follower count using transcripts. Agent‑mode notifications – The hosts appreciate how ChatGPT’s agent mode can run deep research tasks and send notifications when the work is done. 🛠️ Tools, coding & accessibility Command‑line companions – Damashe uses Anthropic’s Claude and GitHub Copilot on the command line for documentation and merges. He notes that putting special characters in VoiceOver’s pronunciation dictionary stops the screen reader from announcing arrows and pipes. Terminal apps – He asks if there are better macOS terminal apps than the built‑in Terminal and mentions that I‑Term 2 didn’t click for him previously. Tools menu improvements – Michael describes updates to his event‑scheduling tool, including generation shortcuts, data‑quality checks and a more streamlined interface for removing Zoom links before publishing. 📢 Community announcement: BITS VS Code crash course Free crash course – Michael announces that BITS (Blind Information Technology Specialists) will hold a free four‑hour Visual Studio Code crash course on August 16. The session focuses on configuring VS Code for screen‑reader users and leveraging GitHub Copilot. How to join – Details will appear at bits‑acb.org or joinbits.org. The course is open to everyone and Michael encourages listeners to become a BITS member or life member. 🌐 Stay connected Follow the show on Mastodon: @tw@technically.social. Follow the hosts: @payon@dragonscave.space (Michael) and @damashe@technically.social (Damashe). Send feedback to feedback@technicallyworking.show – they would love to hear from you. Support Technically Working by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/technically-working Find out more at https://technically-working.pinecast.co Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/technically-working/833e5609-c6d5-4e2a-a0a7-10a4dc9d2026 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Technically Working.

In this episode of Technically Working, Michael and Damashe dive into: 🎛️ Michael’s adventures debugging his custom scheduling tool, lovingly named Builder—including the moment it completely broke everything… and how that led to several much-needed fixes. 🧠 A look at PromptBoost.dev, a slick VS Code extension site to supercharge your AI prompts. 🤖 Comet, the AI-powered browser from Perplexity, surprises us by editing Gravity Forms on the fly—even clicking the save button! 🎤 CSUN 2026 prep: hotel vs Airbnb debates, hallway networking, and conference value tradeoffs. 🚐 Damashe shares his progress training a new vending route driver and the eternal rollercoaster of finding dependable help. 💻 Rediscovering old domains and deciding what to do with long-running podcast archives (including Your Own Pay). 🧹 Tools for cleaning up bloated WordPress installs and abandoned plugin tables. Plus: A shared moment of reflection on why some people listen to podcasts on YouTube 🤔 Uber cash, Lyft discounts, and the return of late-night dev spirals 💬 Got thoughts, tips, or questions? Email us at feedback@technicallyworking.show Or find us on Mastodon: Michael: @payown@dragonscave.space Damashe: @damashe@technically.social Hashtag: #TechnicallyWorking Support the show by sharing it with a friend, sending in a clip, or hitting that tip jar if you’re feeling generous. Thanks for listening! Support Technically Working by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/technically-working Find out more at https://technically-working.pinecast.co Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/technically-working/21cbe510-6ffc-446f-a178-3b15e47811a8 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Technically Working.

In Episode 120, Michael and Damashe are back with fiber internet, fresh gear, and a deep dive into all things technically messy and wonderfully geeky. Here's what you'll hear in this jam-packed episode: Apple’s Hidden Reminders Feature: Michael experiments with setting reminders from the Phone app and discovers a hidden section in the call screen. Does it actually work? Kind of. Damashe’s New Setup: From hanging mics on invisible selfie sticks to testing out the Zoom H5 Studio, he shares what’s working (and what’s not) in his portable podcast rig. Gadget Talk: We talk HomePods, Pelican cases, and the quirks of the Vocaster Hub mute button. Plus, shoutouts to Harper.bog and Tamir from Sweetwater. Android Adventures: Damashe digs into the quirks of managing CalDAV and CardDAV on Android, switching to GrapheneOS, using Google Messages on iPhone via Beeper, and trying to assign custom ringtones by phone line—not contact. Accessibility Wins and WTFs: Hear why Google’s calendar app needs help, why Gmail on Android frustrates, and why Michael still prefers LaunchBar’s clipboard manager over everything. Community Builder Project: Michael gives an update on his work automating ACB's community event scheduling—from Forms to Sheets to dreams of push-button approvals. Apple Support FTW: A weird clicking noise from the HomePod? Apple’s support team jumps into action with diagnostics and follow-up calls. Pixel vs iPhone: From earbuds doing double duty across ecosystems to automatic switching woes and notification syncing between macOS and iOS—this is a cross-platform conversation at its finest. Debugging Life: Michael solves a PySide6 selection bug thanks to Copilot’s debug log, and Damashe finds peace with his PowerBeats working across Apple and Android. Small wins, big impact. Stick around for laughs, rants, shoutouts, and—of course—reminders that may or may not show up. Links & Mentions: Follow Michael on Mastodon: @payown@dragonscave.space Follow Damashe on Mastodon: @damashe@technically.social Follow the bot: @TW@technically.social Email: feedback@technicallyworking.show Use the hashtag #TechnicallyWorking (capitalize the T and W for screen readers!) Support the show: Enjoying what you hear? Drop a tip or become a supporter at technicallyworking.show Support Technically Working by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/technically-working Find out more at https://technically-working.pinecast.co Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/technically-working/e382e9b8-97e7-4385-90aa-0159d3defa76 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Technically Working.

In this episode of Technically Working, Michael and Damashe catch up after what feels like forever—and dive right into Damashe’s chaotic travel story. From missing a train in New Orleans to unexpectedly booking a sleeper car, he shares how one late-night nap and a Pixel alarm mishap turned into an impromptu hotel stay and a free breakfast. They recap recent tech conference experiences, including hands-on impressions of the Giga AI Glasses (spoiler: they’re still a little too chatty), vibration-based navigation shoes from Japan, and the impressive multi-line Dot Pad display with near-instant braille refresh. Michael shares some behind-the-scenes tech wins from running hybrid ACB Convention events—including Gravity Forms automations, Lisi scripting magic, and a FedEx shipping lesson that cost him $81. They also nerd out over gear like the Zoom H5 Studio, run through Damashe’s audio setup powered by a Pixel 9 Pro hotspot, and trade thoughts on why sliders beat knobs on audio mixers. Plus: Why ChatGPT lied about Zoom recorder layouts Updates on the BITS AI class recordings Selling Lisi to pay off a car (yes, really) Using walkie-talkie on the Apple Watch in a hallway sprint Tips on cheaper shipping using Pirate Ship AccessibleAndroid.com and a mystery screen reader named Prudence And a push to keep the podcast under 58 minutes for distribution deals If you enjoy the show and want to support it, hit the Tip Jar and consider becoming a monthly backer. Every little bit helps! Feedback? Questions? 📧 feedback@technicallyworking.show 🧵 Hashtag: #TechnicallyWorking 🐘 Follow Michael: @payown@dragonscave.space 🐘 Follow Damashe: @damashe@technically.social 📡 Show bot: @tw@technically.social Thanks for listening Support Technically Working by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/technically-working Find out more at https://technically-working.pinecast.co Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/technically-working/459bf4f4-d41d-4fe2-a6f3-0acc813bae7c This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Technically Working.

In this episode of Technically Working, Michael and Damashe dive into everything from broken safe keys and unexpected tech closets to streamlining code with AI and fighting Gravity Forms. Michael shares updates on the upcoming BITS AI course and his automations for scheduling Zoom events, while Damashe reveals his quiet move to the closet for better acoustics (and less heat). They discuss: Why more BITS members are tuning in—and how to join the AI course Using Google Classroom effectively vs. bloated school tech platforms Damashe’s safe disaster and impromptu locksmith plan Michael’s TikTok growth and Gravity Forms pet peeve Recording setups, GitHub Copilot agent mode, and code workflows with ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini How Lisi's AI integration streamlines tasks right from JAWS The behind-the-scenes of automating newsletter audio with Azure voices Prime Day skepticism, API usage surprises, and tip jar shout-outs It's an episode filled with laughs, tech experiments, and just a touch of closet-based podcasting. Support Technically Working by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/technically-working Find out more at https://technically-working.pinecast.co Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/technically-working/bb909c1d-f807-42ca-9e85-841236aeb317 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Technically Working.

In this time-shifted episode of Technically Working, Michael and Damashe dive into a pile of long-overdue listener feedback. They kick things off with a detailed voice message from Lord Robin Christofferson about Cal Studio (formerly PFMM.ai), a platform for building and monetizing custom AI tools. Then it’s on to GrapheneOS—Damashe shares updates on accessibility, eSpeakNG’s new direct boot support, and what it takes for blind users to flash the ROM. They also respond to Scout’s questions on ProtonMail, network gear placement, and smart home setups—complete with temperature sensors and leak detectors. Michael wonders how far he can push smart home automation, and the duo get inspired by a wild idea involving a Bluetooth toothbrush starting a car. Plus: Reolink doorbell app accessibility, the ongoing debate between Ubiquiti vs. Reolink, and Damashe’s slow march toward buying a Synology NAS. Got feedback? Email feedback@technicallyworking.show or toot it with #TechnicallyWorking. Support Technically Working by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/technically-working Find out more at https://technically-working.pinecast.co Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/technically-working/242a39b0-3a27-4672-8fb4-b6f744ea04e2 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Technically Working.