Back to Work podcast

Back to Work

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Back to Work is an award winning talk show with Merlin Mann and Dan Benjamin discussing productivity, communication, work, barriers, constraints, tools, and more.

Back to Work is an award winning talk show with Merlin Mann and Dan Benjamin discussing productivity, communication, work, barriers, constraints, tools, and more.

 

#641

Episode 642: A Better Roll of Toilet Paper

Your hosts discuss facial hair, notebooks, the metric system, flexing about local weather, and becoming the bathroom supplies you want to see in the world. Links: --- [Amazon.com : kleid 8902 Notebook, 0.08 inch (2 mm) Grid Notebook, A5, 0.08 inch (2 mm) Grid, Olive : Office Products] (https://www.amazon.com/kleid-8902-Notebook-0-08-Olive/dp/B019OAAVPU/ref=asc_df_B019OAB3JI/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=658835143112&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=18003717448124890141&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9028320&hvtargid=pla-464875221274&mcid=67b65378b18d394aa1b60aa0e0f59386&th=1) --- [Kleid Stationery] (https://vanness1938.com/collections/kleid-stationery) --- [Kinokuniya USA] (https://usa.kinokuniya.com/) --- [Amazon.com: Maruman MNEMOSYNE Notebook 8.27 x 5.83 Inches (A5), 5mm dot grid, 80 Sheets (N105), white : Everything Else] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07YQMBTS2?ie=UTF8&th=1) — Merlin's notebook. --- [Amazon.com: Kinsa Smart,Fever, Digital Medical Baby, Kid and Adult Termometro - Accurate, Fast, FDA Cleared Thermometer for Oral, Armpit or Rectal Temperature Reading - QuickCare : Health & Household] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0795ZW85G?ie=UTF8&psc=1) — Merlin's thermometer. --- [Le Grand K – Saint-Cloud, France - Atlas Obscura] (https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/le-grand-k) — The former global standard for the exact mass of one kilogram sits under lock and key outside Paris.  --- [Metric Paper - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pUF5esTscZI) --- [SMISKI - 【OFFICIAL SITE】SMISKI] (https://smiski.com/e/smiski/) --- [Shopkins Brand Page - Moose Toys] (https://www.moosetoys.com/our-brands/shopkins-brand-page/) --- [Merlin's Wisdom Project] (http://wisdom.limo) — "In thinking about optimizing how you work, try to distinguish between the parts of your job that are necessarily difficult versus the parts that are harder than they actually need to be. The former is the reason that you get the big bucks, and the latter is the reason why you may often feel like the bucks should be bigger." --- [sam elliott young - Google Search] (https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&sca_esv=40a49942b39644b8&rls=en&sxsrf=ACQVn09q7ZwTxDWizevcnVQMriuie9-RTQ:1710873533168&q=sam+elliott+young&tbm=isch&source=lnms&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiwxszJ_ICFAxWKAzQIHW-kDvkQ0pQJegQIDhAB&biw=1800&bih=1278&dpr=2#imgrc=yua24skCn34reM) --- [The Cornell Note Taking System – Learning Strategies Center] (https://lsc.cornell.edu/how-to-study/taking-notes/cornell-note-taking-system/) ... Read more

20 Mar 2024

1 HR 42 MINS

1:42:36

20 Mar 2024


#640

Episode 641: Germans in the Wild

Travel is not always about traveling, but it is definitely always about your life. Links: --- [Wacky Races (1968 TV series) - Wikipedia] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wacky_Races_(1968_TV_series)) --- [Cincinnati Superhero Connection | Cincinnati Experience] (https://www.cincinnatiexperience.com/blog/meanwhile-at-the-hall-of-justice/) --- [Muttley - Wikipedia] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muttley) --- [Simple Scan | Agile Tortoise] (https://agiletortoise.com/simple-scan/) --- [Amazon.com: Anker MagSafe Charger Compatible, Anker MagGo 3in1 Charging Station, Qi2 Certified 15W Wireless Charger Stand, Apple Watch Charger, for iPhone 15/14, AirPods, Apple Watch S9 40W USBC Charger Included : Cell Phones & Accessories] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CF56WHV4?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details) --- [Amazon.com: 150W USB C Charger, Anker 747 Charger ( GaNPrime), 4-Port Fast Compact Foldable Gan Charger for MacBook Pro/Air, iPhone 14/Pro, iPad Pro, Dell XPS 13, Galaxy S22/S21, Note 20/10+, Pixel and More : Cell Phones & Accessories] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09W2PNLX7?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details) --- [Amazon.com: Anker Magnetic Battery, 10,000mAh Foldable Wireless Portable Charger with Stand, 20W USB-C Power Delivery for iPhone 15/15 Plus/15 Pro/15 Pro Max, iPhone 14/14 Pro / 14 Pro Max/13/12 Series : Cell Phones & Accessories] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09NRG4GK3?ie=UTF8&th=1) --- [Amazon.com: Anker 727 Charging Station (GaNPrime 100W), Compact Power Strip for Travel, Work, 5 ft Detachable Extension Cord with 2 Outlets and 4 USB Ports, for iPhone 14, Samsung, iPad, MacBook (Not a Battery) : Cell Phones & Accessories] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09SG31NPT?ie=UTF8&th=1) --- [Amazon.com: Anker GaNPrime Power Bank, 2-in-1 Hybrid Charger, 10,000mAh 30W USB-C Portable Charger with 65W Wall Charger, Works for iPhone 15/15 Plus/15 Pro/15 Pro Max/14/13, Samsung, Pixel, MacBook, Dell : Cell Phones & Accessories] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09W2H224F?ie=UTF8&th=1) --- [Amazon.com: Baseus USB C Cable, Mini 100W Retractable USB C to USB C PD 5A Fast Charging Cable, 4-Stage Length Preset USB Type C Charger Cable for iPhone 15/Pro/Plus/Pro Max, MacBook, iPad Pro, Samsung S23/S22+ : Electronics] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C858GPF9?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1) --- [Bravo Sling Max Limited Edition Black (V2)] (https://alpakagear.com/products/bravo-sling-max-limited-edition-black) --- [Amazon.com : AeroGarden Harvest 2.0, Indoor Garden Hydroponic System with LED Grow Light, Holds up to 6 AeroGarden Pods, Cream : Patio, Lawn & Garden] (https://www.amazon.com/AeroGarden-Harvest-Indoor-Garden-Hydroponic/dp/B0CTRTJBC3?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.i82o7QHKnIA0f3a6RUQVzO3V_TWirAbuJEcSbSawFTClE3-G79f8ewftZmlk1x344mQ5xK4ZpH0fQlH-EMeKiYMuXbk2rDfT5Ak0clXojNrerGn0oNsoaIVn9ZH7loNt2YOJd-pY0S9XvvnRowHk6L-Ex3nOUAyzbzd0Bkl9Q6M6hCG8PgP5u1S9TtXRiPY1mEbvJi7qOCmD0R04b4Z9QjQNHP8fyT00NH_j8vNRvAkYfODBVbrnJzAVa_JK9tbuCY-GhtN7J526OxHc1koNh-TUJWDqHlHtpFvXILxNNLc.ugkSLWmO1VoSM-EDuXMJp6HJkwLkcMGm5fANkig8gfU&dib_tag=se&keywords=aerogarden&qid=1710273405&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1) --- [Hop Along - "Waitress" (Recorded Live for World Cafe) - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AU39gpBHMK4) ... Read more

13 Mar 2024

1 HR 17 MINS

1:17:12

13 Mar 2024


#639

Episode 640: Bob's Big Mess

A classic odds n' sods episode. Plus, Merlin has thoughts about memory and ecosystems, and Dan is considering jetting through an eclipse. ![e640 Bob Evans] (https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/3/316b04e9-2b1f-4ccb-98f1-28fe023874a8/9RoymJk5.jpeg) ... Read more

12 Mar 2024

1 HR 19 MINS

1:19:42

12 Mar 2024


#638

Episode 639: The Commodore's Club

Dan talks about what he's learned from traveling a bunch, and Merlin thinks a lot of weirdness comes from our twin fears of boredom and inconvenience. Links: --- [Tailscale · Best VPN Service for Secure Networks] (https://tailscale.com/) — Tailscale makes creating software-defined networks easy: securely connecting users, services, and devices. --- [Amazon.com: MagSafe Charger Compatible, Anker MagGo 3-in-1 Charging Station, Qi2 Certified 15W Wireless Charger Stand, Apple Watch Charger, for iPhone 15/14, AirPods, Apple Watch S9 (40W USB-C Charger Included) : Cell Phones & Accessories] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0CF56WHV4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1) --- [Thule Accent | Thule | United States] (https://www.thule.com/en-us/backpacks/laptop-backpacks/thule-accent-convertible-backpack-17l-_-3204815) --- [How to Pack a Bag Using the Ranger Roll | The Art of Manliness] (https://www.artofmanliness.com/skills/how-to/how-to-pack-a-bag-using-the-ranger-roll/) --- [Amazon.com: Veken 8 Set Packing Cubes for Suitcases, Travel Essentials for Carry on, Luggage Organizer Bags Set for Travel Accessories in 4 Sizes (Extra Large, Large, Medium, Small), Black : Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry] (https://www.amazon.com/Veken-Accessories-Essentials-Organizer-Suitcases/dp/B0B7BFMHNF/ref=sr_1_5?crid=3AZ65TB7T8A7A&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.PgSS291q7f9rnOOE0hU1ANciA4lhV5CGLnuXh2ZuTYEFXUzn7ubDfg149y-Acrz1n014yHjqbDKB9A2yX2N44WZyQF-LEDa93w2noSyRSta_Up48SQy11dXIm-1mXniVbCF410e28BbJxX3c51uUYTXjH7e6mzdu_S-PYeugF31H0MqghJC52t-J9DOOZhmSpaR2jqJB-RKFnH1cdr3W4g9VnYbBw8OsXofQ9l-zVrURA85y3_afkbZ6_UOW3XBwRJez6PeFcWUfc19QOdYRBvrIcOvW2Stn9tM3yZWMV3A.4tCoyaQO0K8ttrSgsxywuJJ54E1l1AwDHU5Z2WMJ-sU&dib_tag=se&keywords=packing%2Bcubes&qid=1707855928&sprefix=packing%2Bcub%2Caps%2C329&sr=8-5&th=1) --- [Trying the Same Breakfast at Cracker Barrel and Bob Evans, Winner] (https://www.businessinsider.com/cracker-barrel-vs-bob-evans-breakfast-which-is-better-review-2023-10#cracker-barrel-has-amazing-pancakes-but-bob-evans-has-the-better-breakfast-platter-overall-13) --- [Delta Air Lines adds 2024 solar eclipse flight from Austin to Detroit] (https://www.statesman.com/story/news/state/2024/02/20/delta-solar-eclipse-flight-2024-austin-airport-texas-detriot-michigan-path-of-totality/72669253007/) ... Read more

05 Mar 2024

1 HR 15 MINS

1:15:53

05 Mar 2024


#637

Episode 638: A New Kind of Bullet

A classic odds n' sods episode. Links: --- [Paterson Official Trailer 1 (2016) - Adam Driver Movie - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m8pGJBgiiDU) --- [William Carlos Williams - Wikipedia] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Carlos_Williams) --- ["Paterson" by William Carlos Williams] (http://www.patersonproject.com/Paterson-Poem.html) --- [NTFS for Mac on Setapp | Read/write support for NTFS on Mac] (https://setapp.com/apps/iboysoft-ntfs-for-mac) --- [Rename files, folders, and disks on Mac - Apple Support] (https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/rename-files-folders-and-disks-on-mac-mchlp1144/mac) --- [Tailscale · Best VPN Service for Secure Networks] (https://tailscale.com/) --- [Ruby on Mac: Get Ruby working on your Mac in minutes with a single command.] (https://www.rubyonmac.dev/) — With Ruby on Mac: Run a single command and you'll be up and running in 15 minutes or less. ... Read more

23 Jan 2024

2 HR 14 MINS

2:14:16

23 Jan 2024


#636

Episode 637: The Minimally Viable Log Cabin Channel

Merlin conducts a deep dive on being busy versus being time-constrained, and Dan has some updates on his task management odyssey. Links: --- [wisdom/wisdom.md at master · merlinmann/wisdom · GitHub] (http://wisdom.limo) — "It's only advice for you because it HAD to be advice for me." --- [Automation Academy: Introducing ThingsBox, an All-In-One Shortcuts Capture System for the Things Inbox - MacStories] (https://www.macstories.net/linked/automation-academy-introducing-thingsbox-an-all-in-one-shortcuts-capture-system-for-the-things-inbox/) --- [Howler Bros | Official online store – HOWLER BROTHERS] (https://howlerbros.com/) --- [extratone/siri: complete list of siri voice commands] (https://github.com/extratone/siri) --- [On Not Writing About New College - ungainly] (https://ungainly.me/new-college) — "New College finds smart dingalings and helps them learn how to learn." --- [Life Lessons From Bokonon: Kurt Vonnegut’s “Cat’s Cradle” | bound2books] (https://bound2books.co/2016/03/04/life-lessons-from-bokonon-kurt-vonneguts-cats-cradle/) ... Read more

17 Jan 2024

1 HR 35 MINS

1:35:06

17 Jan 2024


#635

Episode 636: Honoring My Pivot Table

Dan is navigating the landscape of task management apps, and, shockingly, Merlin has some thoughts. Links: --- [Paperlike's iPad Screen Protector] (https://paperlike.com/products/paperlike-for-ipad) --- [Là-bas (novel) - Wikipedia] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/L%C3%A0-bas_(novel)) --- [À rebours - Wikipedia] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C3%80_rebours) --- [Gary Gulman: Born on 3rd Base | Now Streaming | Max] (https://www.max.com/movies/gary-gulman-born-on-3rd-base/3c80efb5-7891-463e-87b9-9e8ca7d8e6c7) — Gary Gulman: Born on 3rd Base. The comedian offers up hilarious insights with a generous helping of his inventive humor and absurdism. --- [Decadent movement - Wikipedia] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decadent_movement) --- [Fin de siècle - Wikipedia] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fin_de_si%C3%A8cle) — a French term meaning "end of century,” a phrase which typically encompasses both the meaning of the similar English idiom "turn of the century" and also makes reference to the closing of one era and onset of another. --- [The Ramones - "End of the Century"] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0sGpq1mmnC4&list=PLBnJv6rImVe_HKhoRYIYlMBhiQc5_1ffE) ... Read more

09 Jan 2024

1 HR 21 MINS

1:21:20

09 Jan 2024


#634

Episode 635: Buffet de Canard

Dan and Merlin kick off the new year with a wide-ranging look at how tools and motivations evolve with how we work. Links: --- [The Cornell Note Taking System – Learning Strategies Center] (https://lsc.cornell.edu/how-to-study/taking-notes/cornell-note-taking-system/) --- [Understanding Paper Tooth - What to Look for in an Artist Charcoal Pap – Nitram Art Inc.] (https://nitramcharcoal.com/blogs/blog/understanding-paper-tooth-what-to-look-for-in-an-artist-charcoal-paper) --- [Richard Artschwager: The artist who doesn't fit any category | Documentary "Shut up and Look" - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jByNPGlGIAo) --- [Amazon.com: Paperlike 2.1 (2 Pieces) for iPad Pro 12.9" (2020/21/22) - Transparent Screen Protector for Notetaking and Drawing like on Paper : Electronics] (https://www.amazon.com/PaperLike-Pieces-iPad-12-9-2020/dp/B0BJKPQNYH/ref=sr_1_3?crid=2T20TDBHV5CYW&keywords=paperlike&qid=1704230152&sprefix=paperlike%2Caps%2C118&sr=8-3&th=1) --- [Paperlike's iPad Screen Protector] (https://paperlike.com/products/paperlike-for-ipad) ... Read more

03 Jan 2024

1 HR 20 MINS

1:20:19

03 Jan 2024


#633

Episode 634: Nominally Future-Resistant

A fairly epic episode covering health tracking and self-quantization. Remember: data doesn't have to hurt. Links: --- [calibre - E-book management] (https://calibre-ebook.com/) --- [Bacon Ray - Indie Rock from Tallahassee, Florida] (https://web.archive.org/web/20020602062459/http://www.baconray.nu/main.html) — "Bacon Ray is a soon-to-be defunct indie band from Tallahassee, Florida." (August, 1999) --- [Homepage - Quantified Self] (https://quantifiedself.com/) --- [App and Tracker For Better Sleep and Daily Energy | Rise Science] (https://www.risescience.com/) --- [Athlytic] (https://www.athlyticapp.com/) --- [AutoSleep Track Sleep on Watch on the App Store] (https://apps.apple.com/us/app/autosleep-track-sleep-on-watch/id1164801111) --- [Chronicling – An iOS, iPadOS and watchOS app to track anything] (https://chroniclingapp.com/) --- [Daytum] (https://daytum.com/) — Daytum helps you collect, categorize and communicate your everyday data. --- [Five: Our Most Powerful Wireless Hi-Fi Speaker | Sonos] (https://www.sonos.com/en-us/shop/five) --- [Amazon.com: tomtoc Portfolio Case for iPad Pro 12.9-inch 2022/2021/2020, Protective Sleeve with Accessories Pocket, Carrying Storage Bag for iPad Pencil/Adapter/Hubs/Cables/Magic Keyboard, Fits Surface Pro 12.3 : Electronics] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089NN63V7?th=1) --- [Beam: The Smart TV Soundbar with HDMI Input | Sonos] (https://www.sonos.com/en-us/shop/beam) ... Read more

13 Dec 2023

1 HR 20 MINS

1:20:36

13 Dec 2023


#632

Episode 633: A Self-Aware Old Man

Your hosts talk about how we perceive the world and the challenge of mindfully updating our perceptions. Links: --- [Twinkly] (https://twinkly.com/en-us) ... Read more

05 Dec 2023

57 MINS

57:49

05 Dec 2023


#631

Episode 632: Big Strong Beef Boy

Dan and Merlin are excited about technologies that have found a place in their lives. What a blessed season of thanks! Runner-Up Titles: ---A Lot of Their Unhappiness Came from Me ---The Smell of a 15-Year-Old ---My Trans Daddy is a Fox ---Las Vegas Poops Links: --- [Apple’s China ties under Congressional scrutiny after Jon Stewart cancellation | Ars Technica] (https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2023/11/apples-china-ties-under-congressional-scrutiny-after-jon-stewart-cancellation/) --- [I Reviewed the Most Ridiculous Gadgets from my Spam Folder - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tkuppWvICLM) --- [Polycam - LiDAR & 3D Scanner for iPhone & Android] (https://poly.cam/) --- [@hotdogsladies | Polycam] (https://poly.cam/@hotdogsladies) --- [Create a 3d Model using your Phone! PolyCam 3D Scan Tutorial - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YcNTv4OrDYg) --- [Mac keyboard shortcuts - Apple Support] (https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201236) --- [iPad Keyboards - Apple] (https://www.apple.com/ipad-keyboards/?afid=p238%7CsTonNWz7N-dc_mtid_1870765e38482_pcrid_659118183523_pgrid_127660493245_pntwk_g_pchan__pexid__&cid=aos-us-kwgo-btb--slid---product-) --- [calibre - E-book management] (https://calibre-ebook.com/) ... Read more

28 Nov 2023

1 HR 23 MINS

1:23:12

28 Nov 2023


#630

Episode 631: Little Bit of Dirty Grey

Merlin has more on generative AI, and Dan has a sweet new watch. Links: --- [Original Takes for Orson Welles Wine Commercial - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFevH5vP32s) --- [Matt Berry - What's In My Bag? - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9HuNNPoAGvQ) --- [IT'S KEVIN Amish Sex Pistols - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0NQphQZXhFM) --- [The Butterfield Diet Plan 🍰 | The Peter Serafinowicz Show - BBC - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NjTWvl8x-U&t=69s) --- [OpenAI DevDay, Opening Keynote - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U9mJuUkhUzk) --- [New Products: A Deep Dive - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pq34V_V5j18) --- [boygenius - not strong enough (Live from SNL) - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_t6n_4UpT38) --- [Kevin Eldon - Wikipedia] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_Eldon) --- [Sony Watchman - Wikipedia] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sony_Watchman) --- [NHTSA Early Estimates: 2022 Traffic Crash Deaths | NHTSA] (https://www.nhtsa.gov/press-releases/traffic-crash-death-estimates-2022#) — The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has released its latest projections for traffic fatalities in 2022, estimating that 42,795 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes ... Read more

14 Nov 2023

1 HR 10 MINS

1:10:53

14 Nov 2023


#629

Episode 630: Monchichabowsky

On AI and curiosity. Links: --- [Monchhichi Blue Bib Boy · Kappa Toys] (https://kappatoys.com/products/monchhichi-blue-bib-boy?_pos=3&_sid=f433269d4&_ss=r&variant=47109261427002) --- [Career Day - SNL - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7HD2xG92-0) --- [Monchhichi Dolls Commercial - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=od3cNTl40VI) --- [Drama Actors Roundtable: Pedro Pascal, Evan Peters, Kieran Culkin, Damson Idris & More - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GuqnPFL8-E8) --- [Pedro Pascal & Oscar Isaac Answer the Web's Most Searched Questions | WIRED - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=stLw-2Ob8xQ) --- [Like Stories of Old | Nebula] (https://nebula.tv/lsoo) — I believe that movies, just like the stories of old, contain valuable lessons and insights, and to better understand them is to better understand life. --- [The Inner Chronicle of What We Are – Understanding Werner Herzog - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1W5wAGzCpU) --- [‎Films directed by Werner Herzog • Letterboxd] (https://letterboxd.com/director/werner-herzog/) --- [‎How Much Wood Would a Woodchuck Chuck (1976) directed by Werner Herzog • Reviews, film + cast • Letterboxd] (https://letterboxd.com/film/how-much-wood-would-a-woodchuck-chuck/) — A documentary short examining the language and performance of auctioneering, filmed at the World Livestock Auctioneer Championship in Pennsylvania. --- [‎God's Angry Man (1981) directed by Werner Herzog • Reviews, film + cast • Letterboxd] (https://letterboxd.com/film/gods-angry-man/) — The documentary follows Gene Scott, famous televangelist involved with constant fights against FCC, who tried to shut down his TV show during the 1970s and ’80s, and even argues with his viewers, complaining about their lack of support by not sending enough money to keep going with the show. --- [OpenAI DevDay, Opening Keynote - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U9mJuUkhUzk) --- [Protective Mom - SNL - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HkmlfHi9Ll4) --- [Fancam Assembly - SNL - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uX-bJFioAX4) --- [Wing Pit - SNL - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ISBJyhughBo&t=2s) ... Read more

07 Nov 2023

1 HR 15 MINS

1:15:29

07 Nov 2023


#628

Episode 629: Benjamin Franklin's Disease

And and Merlin have a wide-ranging discussion. Links: --- [Rams Palette. – Present & Correct] (https://www.presentandcorrect.com/blogs/blog/rams-palette) --- [Present & Correct] (https://www.presentandcorrect.com/) --- [Modern notes manager for macOS and iOS | FSNotes App] (https://fsnot.es/) — FSNotes is modern notes manager for macOS and iOS. App respects open formats like GitHub Flavored Markdown, so you can easily write documents on iPhone and MacBook. It's simple and blazing fast! --- [Swap email for Slack: How to save employees 11 hours a week | Slack] (https://slack.com/blog/productivity/save-employees-time?d=7013y000002VBRfAAO&nc=7013y000002VBQYAA4&utm_source=morningbrew&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=amer_us_slkaw&utm_content=slack-brand-brand--all-industries-morningbrew_7013y000002VBRfAAO) --- [C.H.U.D. - Wikipedia] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/C.H.U.D.) --- [MonoLisa - A font family designed for software developers. Font follows function.] (https://www.monolisa.dev/) --- [JetBrains Mono: A free and open source typeface for developers | JetBrains: Developer Tools for Professionals and Teams] (https://www.jetbrains.com/lp/mono/) --- [Career Day - SNL - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7HD2xG92-0) ... Read more

24 Oct 2023

51 MINS

51:10

24 Oct 2023


#627

Episode 628: Beating Yourself Up at Scale

Talk of eyes, intentionalities, and HDMI. Links: --- [Chipotle tests automation for burrito bowls and salads] (https://www.cnbc.com/2023/10/03/chipotle-tests-automation-for-burrito-bowls-and-salads-.html) --- [Orion — HDMI Monitor for iPad] (https://orion.tube/) --- [Amazon.com: Sakura 44181 Identi-Pen Blister Card Permanent Marker, Black : Office Products] (https://www.amazon.com/Sakura-44181-Identi-Pen-Blister-Permanent/dp/B000XAL2F4/ref=sr_1_6?crid=3G49BQQ61BC5D&keywords=identi+pen&qid=1696963262&sprefix=identipen%2Caps%2C190&sr=8-6) --- [Ex-Dodger Steve Garvey launches a Senate campaign heavy on nostalgia, light on specifics] (https://www.sfchronicle.com/politics/joegarofoli/article/steve-garvey-senate-18415368.php) — "So far, his campaign promises to be heavy on 1970s baseball nostalgia and light on policy or specifics." --- [Amazon.com: Tul Retractable Gel Pens 0.5mm Needle Point, Black (8 Pack) : Office Products] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073V7NF3W?ie=UTF8&psc=1) --- [Amazon.com: The Sleeping Beauty Trilogy Box Set: The Claiming of Sleeping Beauty; Beauty's Punishment; Beauty's Release: 9780452294752: Roquelaure, A. N.: Books] (https://www.amazon.com/Sleeping-Beauty-Trilogy-Box-Set/dp/0452294754) — "In 1983, before E.L. James' Fifty Shades of Grey and Sylvia Day's Bared to You, Anne Rice, writing as A.N. Roquelaure, began the first installment of the series that is now considered a forerunner of erotic literature." --- [What is Buddhism? — Information is Beautiful] (https://informationisbeautiful.net/visualizations/buddhism-explained-key-beliefs-samsara-nirvana-dependent-origination-enlightenment-jhanas/) --- [Taskmaster Champion of Champions - Episode 1 - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGOUR26pLz0) --- [Exploring the Depths of Buddhist Thought: An Infographic Guide — Information is Beautiful] (https://informationisbeautiful.net/2023/exploring-buddhist-thought-what-is-buddhism-what-is-enlightenment/) — An infographical flyover of key Buddhist thought, detailing notions of enlightenment, higher states of consciousness and the principle of ‘dependent origination‘. ... Read more

11 Oct 2023

58 MINS

58:29

11 Oct 2023


#626

Episode 627: Unscheduled Dirt Event

Merlin claims he's not going to do any work for this one, and Dan has some advice for travelers. Links: --- [Doom developer John Carmack thinks AGI could debut in 2030 • The Register] (https://www.theregister.com/2023/09/26/john_carmack_agi/?utm_source=tldrnewsletter) --- [The Unusual | Dan Benjamin | Substack] (https://unusual.email/) --- [The Better Boarding Method Airlines Won't Use - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oAHbLRjF0vo) --- [Boarding a Plane Shouldn’t Be This Hard - Key & Peele - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhxlZC8BZJ4) --- [Merlin's 3D Little Guys - ungainly] (https://ungainly.me/little-guys) ... Read more

03 Oct 2023

1 HR 06 MINS

1:06:43

03 Oct 2023


#625

Episode 626: Chekhov's Lightsaber

Your hosts catch up on some great media, and Merlin expounds on the magic of Channels. Also, Merlin logrolls a recent podcast episode and re-extolls the power of dictation. Links: --- [Mac Power Users #711: Getting Some Wisdom with Merlin Mann - Relay FM] (https://www.relay.fm/mpu/711) — Merlin Mann comes back to the Mac Power Users to talk about task management, iOS 17 improvements, and wisdom. --- [DevUtils - All-in-one Toolbox for Developers] (https://devutils.com/) — "All-in-one Toolbox for Developers" (Available via Setapp) --- [DFB234DUOH01G | Sanding | Sanding Sponges & Pads | Sanding Block] (https://www.diablotools.com/products/DFB234DUOH01G) --- [TypingMind — A better UI for ChatGPT] (https://www.typingmind.com/) — A better UI for ChatGPT --- [Dr. Manhattan, Time, Causality, and Freedom – The Ratty] (https://therattyblog.com/2022/12/13/dr-manhattan-time-causality-and-freedom/) --- [You Are Two - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfYbgdo8e-8) --- [Why You Probably Don't Have Free Will | Philosophy Break] (https://philosophybreak.com/articles/free-will-illusion-sam-harris/) --- [Is Free Will an Illusion? - Scientific American] (https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/is-free-will-an-illusion/) --- [‎Merlin Mann’s profile • Letterboxd] (https://letterboxd.com/merlinmann/) --- [‎Billy’s profile • Letterboxd] (https://letterboxd.com/buriedinvenice/) --- [Channels — Live TV & DVR] (https://getchannels.com/) — Watch and record your favorite shows and movies from every TV and device. From your living room, second home, hotel room, or even on your commute, Channels lets you watch your personal media your way. --- [Channels Support - Commercial Skipping] (https://getchannels.com/docs/apps/usage/commercial-skipping/) ... Read more

26 Sep 2023

1 HR 10 MINS

1:10:46

26 Sep 2023


#624

Episode 625: Chapters of Madness

Dan and Merlin have a wide-ranging discussion. Links: --- [TextFX] (https://textfx.withgoogle.com/) — AI-powered tools for rappers, writers and wordsmiths. --- [TypingMind — A better UI for ChatGPT] (https://www.typingmind.com/) — A better UI for ChatGPT --- [Omnivore] (https://omnivore.app/) --- [(141) Paddle to the Sea - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhjb1IG1pnQ) ... Read more

06 Sep 2023

44 MINS

44:57

06 Sep 2023


#623

Episode 624: Rectangle Time

Dan and Merlin have a wide-ranging discussion about technology, and Merlin lays the groundwork for several spirited rants. Links: --- [Mythic Computer is trying to change the PC world one wood computer at a time - The Verge] (https://www.theverge.com/23841276/mythic-computer-keegan-mcnamara-pc-builder) --- [Ideogram: Helping people become more creative.] (https://ideogram.ai/login) --- [Amazon.com: Anker USB C Charger, 735 Charger (Nano II 65W), iPad Charger, PPS 3-Port Fast Compact Foldable for MacBook Pro/Air, iPad Pro, Galaxy S23, Dell XPS 13, Note 20/10+, iPhone 14/Pro, Steam Deck, and More : Electronics] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09C5RG6KV/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1) --- [Amazon.com: Anker Magnetic Battery (MagGo), 10,000mAh Foldable Wireless Portable Charger, 20W USB-C Power Delivery for iPhone 14/14 Pro / 14 Pro Max, iPhone 13/12 Series. (Black) : Cell Phones & Accessories] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09NRG4GK3?ie=UTF8&th=1) --- [Amazon.com: Anker 622 Magnetic Battery (MagGo) Upgraded Version, 5,000mAh Foldable Magnetic Wireless Portable Charger and USB-C (On The Side), Only for iPhone 14/13/12 Series (Interstellar Gray) : Cell Phones & Accessories] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B466YTT3/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1) ... Read more

29 Aug 2023

54 MINS

54:19

29 Aug 2023


#622

Episode 623: My Terrible Adhesion

Over the course of this classic Odds n' Sods episode, it becomes clear that all Merlin cares about is babies and 3D printing. Links: --- [White Noise Podcasters Are Costing Spotify $38 Million a Year - Bloomberg] (https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2023-08-17/white-noise-podcasters-are-costing-spotify-38-million-a-year?utm_campaign=mb&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_source=morning_brew#xj4y7vzkg) --- [Stanford Tree - Wikipedia] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stanford_Tree) --- [Monoprice MP Voxel 3D Printer, Fully Enclosed, Easy Wi-Fi, Touchscreen, 8GB On-Board Memory - Monoprice.com] (https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=33820) --- [Bre Pettis - Wikipedia] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bre_Pettis) --- [On Not Writing About New College - ungainly] (https://ungainly.me/new-college) ... Read more

22 Aug 2023

1 HR 00 MINS

1:00:30

22 Aug 2023


#621

Episode 622: A Gentleman's Malt Liquor

Dan returns from a nice trip, and Merlin has been printing lizards. Links: --- [Connect Patreon to Spotify and Stream Your Favorite Podcasts in One Place — Spotify] (https://newsroom.spotify.com/2023-08-09/patreon-spotify-connect-exclusive-podcast-patron-member-content-in-feed/) --- [Javier Bardem - Wikipedia] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Javier_Bardem) --- [Thingiverse - Digital Designs for Physical Objects] (https://www.thingiverse.com/flerkinblerkin/collections/20026943/things) --- [How the West Was Won (Led Zeppelin album) - Wikipedia] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/How_the_West_Was_Won_(Led_Zeppelin_album)) --- [Home - 13 Coins] (https://www.13coins.com/) --- [Brian Brettschneider on Twitter: "The average President/Ex-President has been changed with 2 felonies over the course of U.S. history. 🇺🇸 https://t.co/qxHHHVxXqS" / X] (https://twitter.com/Climatologist49/status/1691288205814059008) --- [Drama Actors Roundtable: Pedro Pascal, Evan Peters, Kieran Culkin, Damson Idris & More - YouTube] (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GuqnPFL8-E8) --- [The Suicide Squad | Watch the Movie on HBO | HBO.com] (https://www.hbo.com/movies/the-suicide-squad) ... Read more

15 Aug 2023

1 HR 14 MINS

1:14:28

15 Aug 2023