Tech, travel, and a touch of Pittsburgh flair!
Michael Sorg and Dave Podnar take you inside the brand-new Pittsburgh International Airport terminal, share how to build your own 24/7 streaming channel with OBS + VLC, and break down the biggest Adobe MAX 2025 AI announcements. We talk whether 8K TVs even matter, the surprisingly useful iOS Vehicle Motion Cues, and what it’s really like using the new ChatGPT Atlas browser.
Plus: Chachi’s Video Game Minute, EB Games’ comeback, and a Taco Bell 50K run you have to hear to believe.
🛫 Links + extras: https://www.sorgatronmedia.com/blog/awesomecast-755-pittsburgh-airport-ai-obs-stream-madness
The AwesomeCast crew — Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar — dive into another week of geeky goodness, from AI browsers and robo-pets to nostalgic tech and bizarre cable “hacks.”
This Week’s Awesome Topics
• 🧠 OpenAI’s new ChatGPT Atlas browser — Dave tries the AI-powered browser built to summarize and interact with the web itself. openai.com/index/introducing-chatgpt-atlas
• 🎮 Keeper on Game Pass — Sorg shares his pick for the week: a haunting, cinematic puzzle game where your lighthouse walks on spider legs. xbox.com/en-US/games/keeper
• 🧸 Casio’s MOFLIN AI Pet — Katie explores the fuzzy, learning pet robot that’s way too cute to ignore. casio.com/us/moflin
• 🛍️ Walmart partners with ChatGPT — The team discusses how AI is about to change the way you shop online. apnews.com/article/openai-walmart-chatgpt-shopping-partnership
• 🧱 Sesame Street in Roblox — What happens when Elmo goes digital? Roblox link
• 🎬 Chachi’s Video Game Minute — Netflix adds real games to your TV app.
• 📺 Not Awesome: Telly TV’s “free” set might cost more than you think. tiktok.com/@verge/video/7557015639102098702
• 💾 Throwback Corner: Remember 3dfx graphics cards? The golden age of gaming returns. wikipedia.org/wiki/3dfx
🎙️ Support the show on Patreon for ad-free episodes and exclusive after-talk:
👉 patreon.com/awesomecast
This week on AwesomeCast, we dive into creepy games and cutting-edge tech!
🎮 Katie introduces Grounded: Fully Yoked Edition on Nintendo Switch
🧵 Sorg explores My Friendly Neighborhood—a horror puppet shooter with serious FNAF vibes
🦒 Dave visits The Living Desert Zoo in Palm Springs
🤖 We unleash chaos using the Sora AI app—turning ourselves into rom-com leads, tourists, and caffeine junkies
🎮 Plus: Netflix launches games on TV, and Baby Steps punishes you for skipping cutscenes!
And don’t miss Sorg’s Game Pass tip to save $$$ before prices go up.
🎥 Full video & more: AwesomeCast.com
🧠 Support us: patreon.com/awesomecast
Surfboards, Baja Cars & Broken GoPros — This Week on AwesomeCast!
Katie returns with stories from the waves as she shares her inspiring First Descents surf adventure in Santa Cruz, designed for cancer survivors. Meanwhile, the team gives a full behind-the-scenes breakdown of their latest wild production at Baja SAE Carolina — from broadcasting out of a U-Haul van to dealing with dusty terrain, wireless camera chaos, and even a GoPro that didn’t survive.
Plus:
• Microsoft raises Game Pass prices again
• Minecraft gets educational about climate change
• AI-generated chaos with OpenAI’s Sora
• Why you must log out of your Airbnb streaming accounts…
Hosted by Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, Missy Sorg & Dave Podnar
🎥 Watch the video version & more at AwesomeCast.com
This week on AwesomeCast, Michael Sorg and Dave Podnar are joined by intern Mac to dive into the latest in Apple tech, production travel hacks, and wearable innovation. Sorg shares stories from producing Defy Wrestling in Seattle, including packing $30K worth of video gear and dealing with TSA “love letters.” Dave brings real-world testing of the iPhone 17 Pro Max camera with stunning 8x zoom shots.
Plus:
• Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses demo disaster (and why it failed)
• Live transcription, translation & privacy risks with smart eyewear
• watchOS & iOS 17 tips: CarPlay widgets, Fitness+, Notes on Apple Watch
• Chachi’s Video Game Minute on how shows like Fallout boost game sales
• Reflex 240mm lens for mobile pros
• Intern Mac drops knowledge on Apple vs Meta AI features
📲 Support the show: patreon.com/awesomecast
This week on AwesomeCast, we dive into tech, history, and a little pumpkin spice! We’re joined by Virginia Montanez — acclaimed writer, author, and creator of the PastFinders app, which turns everyday walks into immersive historical tours.
We also talk:
• Apple Watch’s new “Workout Buddy” voice coaching (is it helpful or just annoying?)
• iJustine’s epic iPhone 1 vs iPhone 15 photo test
• Using AI to turn pet pics into paintings via iOS 17’s Image Playground
• Goldfish + Dunkin = Pumpkin Spice Grahams?! Taste-tested on the show!
💡 Plus: Newsletter updates, cat chaos, and what it’s like launching a tech startup in Pittsburgh.
🛠 Featured Links:
• https://pghremains.com (PastFinders App)
• https://www.patreon.com/awesomecast
• https://awesomecast.substack.com
Apple’s September event brought us the iPhone 17 family, AirPods Pro 3, and the Apple Watch Ultra 3, packed with features for creators and adventurers alike. Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar break down what’s exciting (and what’s eyebrow-raising) in this week’s AwesomeCast.
We also dive into Sesame Street moving its library to YouTube and this year’s holiday LEGO highlights, including the Gingerbread AT-AT and a $1,000 UCS Death Star.
This week on AwesomeCast 748, hosts Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar break down the latest in tech, gadgets, and geek news:
• AI tools for creators: why Opus Pro beats CapCut for quick, high-quality clips
• Instagram’s new Picture-in-Picture mode for Reels
• Testing Amazon Lens Live for smarter shopping
• Retro gaming hype with the Mortal Kombat Legacy Kollection and a new He-Man beat-’em-up
• Apple event preview: iPhone 17 Air, AirPods 3 with live translation, and more
• Plus: Grogu’s big-screen debut, Baja SAE on PBS, and our Awesome Things of the Week
👉 Find links and more at AwesomeCast.com
AwesomeCast 747 – Floating Bars, Hello Kitty Games, and AI Colleagues
Hosts Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar are joined by Kit Mueller of SkillBuilder.io to explore the latest tech, gaming, and Pittsburgh innovations.
• Pittsburgh’s new Riverlife “Shore Thing” floating pop-up on the Allegheny, run by Brew Gentlemen. More info
• Nintendo Switch’s Hello Kitty and Friends: Freeze Tag Party launching Nov 2025. Game details
• AppleCare One: bundling device protection under one plan. Apple announcement
• Google Gemini’s new Flash Image editor for smarter, consistent AI photos. Ars Technica coverage
• Chachi’s Video Game Minute: Fallout Season 2 trailer + LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight reveal.
• Viral cat-subway build, Apple Watch + AI coaching rumors, and more.
• Kit Mueller’s spotlight: how SkillBuilder.io is powering “AI colleagues” across Pittsburgh organizations.
Cohosts Michael Sorg and Dave Podnar welcome Josh Dorfman, Co-founder, CEO, and host of SuperCool, to talk about the adoption era of climate tech—where real solutions are cutting emissions and saving money today. Josh shares insights from BrainBox AI’s energy-saving building systems, Google’s Project Sunroof, and even a Pennsylvania school district saving big with solar and electric school buses. We also dive into Josh’s own startup, Planted Materials, building carbon-negative housing panels.
In the second half, we geek out over:
• McDonald’s TMNT × Hello Kitty Happy Meal toys
• A Sam’s Club pumpkin diorama that’s perfect for spooky season
• YouTube’s new Gemini “Ask About This Video” AI button (screenshot demo)
• And the latest in gaming with Chachi’s Video Game Minute, including Fast & Furious Arcade and Red Dead Redemption 2 sales milestones.
We wrap with some Patreon-exclusive extras: the ElliQ companion robot, Discord’s new “Play Instantly” feature, and a behind-the-scenes look at “poddy editing.”
Stay tuned for optimism, gadgets, and a reminder that climate tech is cooler—and closer—than you think
Hosts Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar are back with another fun-filled episode of AwesomeCast, bringing their favorite geeky picks and tech stories of the week from Pittsburgh and beyond.
🔸 Highlights from this episode:
🧱 Katie’s Awesome Thing – Hello Kitty x BLDR Toy Bricks
Jazwares’ new toy brick line BLDR introduces a Hello Kitty set that caught Katie’s attention. A fun new collectible for fans of kawaii and construction toys.
🔗 https://shop.jazwares.com/pages/bldr
🔗 https://www.target.com/c/hello-kitty/bldr/-/N-p9km2Z4
🚗 Dave’s Awesome Thing – Ford’s New EV Platform
Ford is stepping away from Volkswagen’s MEB platform and building its own next-gen EV system in-house.
🔗 https://arstechnica.com/cars/2025/08/ford-bets-on-new-ev-platform-ditching-vws-meb
💻 Sorg’s Awesome Thing – ChatGPT 5 in the Terminal
Sorg shares his hands-on experience using ChatGPT 5.0 directly in the terminal, a powerful tool for developers and power users.
🔗 https://openai.com/index/introducing-gpt-5
🔗 https://www.axios.com/2025/08/08/openai-aims-gpt5-enterprise
🎧 Tune in and get geeky with us every week at AwesomeCast.com
📍 Recorded from Sorgatron Media Studios in Pittsburgh, PA
In this week’s tech and pop culture roundup, the crew swaps travel tales, dives into toy news, and tries out new gadgets. Hear about a massive indoor amusement park experience, a quirky calendar mash-up, a McDonald’s Happy Meal toy line combining pop culture icons, a nostalgic Mac-style USB-C hub, live object recognition from a mobile AI assistant, a hands-on paper airplane STEM kit, and a retro-style college football mobile game.
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Stories & Gadgets Covered
Pop Culture & Experiences
• Indoor amusement park adventure – Detailed trip report from a multi-level shopping and entertainment complex featuring a Nickelodeon-themed park, roller coasters, character meet-and-greets, a DreamWorks water park, an indoor ski slope, a two-story toy store, mini-golf, and a giant Ferris wheel with skyline views.
• Cat Wars calendar – A humorous monthly mash-up of cats and sci-fi themes, sparking debates over AI vs. Photoshop image origins.
• McDonald’s Happy Meal crossover toys – Upcoming U.S. launch of a 12-figure collaboration between Hello Kitty characters and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, sparking collector excitement.
• Positive pet stories – A heartwarming charity calendar featuring a wheelchair-using dog, plus a social media find following two canine companions traveling the country in a truck.
Gadgets & Tech
• Retro Macintosh-style USB-C hub – A Kickstarter device styled after the original Macintosh, designed to sit on top of a Mac mini. Adds a 5-inch 720p display and extra ports (USB-A/C, HDMI, audio, card reader). Can function as a standalone USB-C hub for other devices.
• AI visual recognition tool – Live camera mode in a mobile AI assistant app that identifies objects in real time and engages in conversational follow-ups for more detail.
• Klutz Big Book of Paper Airplanes – A kid-friendly STEM activity book with 10 airplane designs, 40 sheets of colorful paper, folding instructions, and tips for flight performance.
• Retro Bowl College Edition mobile game – An 8/16-bit-style football simulator with both arcade play and team management elements, including a full roster of college programs.
AI & Workflow
• Practical uses for AI tools, including weekly automated reminders for content performance reviews, recipe generation based on available ingredients, and setting up custom assistants for specific research or monitoring tasks.
Join Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar for another wild ride through the latest in tech, geek culture, and digital oddities. From chainsawed sandwiches and pygmy hippos to new AI-powered tools from Google and fun gaming tie-ins, AwesomeCast 743 dives into the fun, weird, and sometimes terrifying world of tech.
Whether you’re curious about Google Search’s AI makeover, craving a McDonald’s-themed Joy-Con fry holder, or wondering why a zoo staged a fake hippo escape with an inflatable costume — we’ve got you covered.
📰 Tech & Gadget News
Mu Dang the Pygmy Hippo Goes Viral: Thailand zoo runs a full-scale emergency drill with a costumed inflatable hippo to test staff response — adorable and effective training.
Google Search Gets AI Canvas Tool: Google is merging its AI tools with search, introducing “Canvas” to generate custom images from text and photos — currently available via the Google mobile app.
Notebook LM & AI Overload: Google’s overlapping AI features, including Canvas and Notebook LM, raise questions about branding confusion and user experience as AI moves deeper into search.
Copilot in Microsoft Edge: New “Copilot Mode” allows Edge to process and summarize across open tabs, designed for research efficiency — potentially great for students and writers.
“Grok” Explained: The term popularized in sci-fi is now an AI term, originally from Stranger in a Strange Land, meaning “to deeply understand”.
Chainsaw Sandwiches at Sheets: A bizarre but real marketing stunt — Sheets teamed with Liquid Death to cut sandwiches in half with a chainsaw. Bonus: custom merch drop included.
Critical Role Video Game Incoming: A brand-new RPG set in the world of Exandria is in development with Ad Hoc Studio — no timeline yet, but fans are hyped.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Gets a Game: A co-op 3D platformer based on the 1964 classic claymation special is dropping for holiday 2025.
Netflix’s Happy Gilmore Golf Mayhem 98: Retro browser game launched to promote Happy Gilmore 2, complete with pixel art, chaos on the green, and fighting Bob Barker.
AppleCare One Subscription: New $19.99/mo service allows Apple users to cover up to three devices, with theft/loss options and $5.99 add-ons for additional devices.
3D-Printed McDonald’s Fry Holder for Nintendo Switch: A hilarious Joy-Con mod lets gamers hold a box of fries mid-gameplay. Yes, it’s real and printable via Maker World.
Mario Paint Returns via Switch Online: Classic SNES creative tool now available — supports USB mouse and works with Nintendo Switch Online’s classic game collection.
Google Photos AI Makeover: New VO2-powered features let users animate photos, turn images into comics or anime, and access all creation tools via a new “Create” tab.
This week on AwesomeCast, we’re diving into the future of visual technology with Wally Haas, the founder of Avalon Holographics. From real, light-field holographic displays to the practical applications in medicine, defense, and entertainment, this episode is a glimpse at the future of immersive 3D visualization. We also break down tech updates from the cosplay-packed halls of Tekko 2025 in Pittsburgh, explore camera app alternatives like PostPic, and check out the latest headlines in gaming with the Chachi Video Game Minute.
Whether you’re curious about holograms, anime conventions, or how your iPhone can become a pro-level camera, this geeky roundtable has you covered!
🔗 Find more tech content at www.AwesomeCast.com
🧊 Guest Interview – Wally Haas, Avalon Holographics
Real Holographic Displays: Avalon Holographics creates light-field holographic tables where 3D visuals “pop out” and can be viewed from multiple angles—no glasses or headsets required.
Tech Specs: The display features the light data equivalent of 3,000 HD TVs (5 billion pixels); uses light ray simulation to create real-life visual depth.
Medical Applications: Assists with surgical planning, patient education, and digital twins of anatomy. Particularly useful for robotic and laparoscopic procedures.
Defense Applications: Provides 3D battle scene visualizations for real-time awareness, terrain navigation, and decision-making using LiDAR and drone data.
Entertainment & Future Uses: High-potential for theme parks, gaming simulations, haunted attractions, and eventually mainstream displays. Think “Star Wars chess table meets Iron Man HUD.”
AI Integration: Enhances design and diagnostics by visualizing AI-analyzed parts and potential system failures in holographic form.
Origin Story: Inspired by Iron Man 2 and frustration with understanding mechanical systems, Wally leveraged his semiconductor background to create his second startup.
🕹️ Chachi Says Video Game Minute
Ubisoft Claims Microtransactions = Fun: Controversial statement that optional purchases enhance enjoyment.
Netflix’s Assassin’s Creed Series: After a 2020 announcement, Netflix is finally moving forward.
Legend of Zelda Live Action Movie: Cast announced with Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link and Bo Bragason as Zelda.
📸 Dave’s Awesome Thing – PostPic Camera App
VSCO & Lightroom Alternative: Free iPhone app for film-style photography with retro presets like Kodak Gold and Mad Max.
Photo Editing Features: Offers bloom, halation, and full editing control—ideal for artistic iPhoneography.
No Subscription Needed: Created by a developer tired of costly photo apps.
🎭 Sorg’s Awesome Thing – Tekko 2025 Recap
Cosplay Culture Explosion: Sorg and Intern John explored Pittsburgh’s Tekko anime convention, spotlighting creative cosplay and DIY craftsmanship.
Costume Interviews: Featured 3D-printed helmets, robotic arms, and integrated smoke effects.
Pro Production Tips: iPhone 13 Pro Max used for interviews, combined with mobile mics and BTS videography. Mic success rate ~80%.
Content Rollout: Full 16-minute video on YouTube with Instagram highlights; cosplay community engagement already strong.
📺 – “Breaking the Bird” (HBO Documentary)
Twitter Origins & Evolution: Four-part HBO series covers Twitter’s early culture, global impact, and internal struggles before Elon Musk’s acquisition.
Nostalgia Trigger: Explores how Twitter grew into a cultural phenomenon for everything from politics to community-building.
Not Overly Elon-Focused: Avoids dwelling solely on Elon Musk, instead offering a full historical arc.
In this episode of AwesomeCast, co-hosts Michael Sorg and Dave Podnar dive into the latest tech trends, gadgets, and geek culture from Pittsburgh and beyond. Sorg shares a hands-on review of the Backbone USB-C mobile game controller, and Dave unveils a jaw-dropping 115-inch Hisense Mini-LED TV that costs as much as a car. We explore tech headlines including the consolidation of ChromeOS and Android, Google’s AI-powered NotebookLM, and how Xbox is pushing console-less gaming with Fire TV bundles. Plus, hear from Intern John about Picklesburgh adventures and travel plans, and enjoy a rapid-fire roundup in Chachi’s Video Game Minute, featuring a major shakeup on Steam and FBI action on ROM sites.
👉 Don’t miss insider insights, live tech demos, and how these innovations impact gamers, journalists, and content creators alike.
🎮📱🔥
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🔹 Tech & News Highlights from the Show
🕹 Backbone USB-C Game Controller Review (Sorg’s Awesome Thing of the Week)
• Hands-on demo of the Backbone USB-C controller for mobile gaming.
• Works with Xbox Game Pass, Steam, GeForce Now, Luna, and Apple Arcade.
• Reviewed its build quality, compatibility issues with rugged phone cases, and a sketchy subscription model (Backbone+).
• Compared against cheaper, less intuitive Chinese controllers (e.g., Shanwan).
• Noted advantages: plug-and-play, pass-through USB-C charging, and overall solid ergonomics.
• Challenges: loud buttons, unclear subscription pricing, and awkward button placement that may interfere with gameplay.
📺 Hisense 115-Inch Mini LED TV (Dave’s Awesome Thing of the Week)
• Features cutting-edge Mini LED technology with RGB pixel precision.
• Massive size (115 inches) with 165Hz refresh rate.
• Retails at $30,000 – aimed at high-end, future-looking consumers.
• A CES-style “dream product” that showcases where display tech is headed.
🔥 Xbox Cloud Gaming on Fire Stick
• Highlighted Prime Day bundle: Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Controller + Fire TV Stick + Game Pass Ultimate.
• Critiqued misleading headline about “Jeff Bezos destroying Xbox console sales.”
• Explained how this supports Xbox’s strategy to expand beyond physical consoles via cloud gaming.
• Limitations: game access may vary (e.g., owned titles like WWE 2K25 not playable via cloud), and still in beta.
💻 ChromeOS & Android Merger
• Google plans to merge ChromeOS and Android into a unified system for Chromebooks.
• ChromeOS will run on top of a new Android base, similar to Windows on MS-DOS architecture.
• Aimed at increasing app compatibility and reducing confusion for users, especially in education sectors.
🧠 Google NotebookLM Pre-Loaded Topics
• Google introduces featured notebooks in NotebookLM to help users get started with generative AI tools.
• Topics include Shakespeare, Yellowstone science, Q1 earnings of top companies, parenting advice, and more.
• Offers curated collections for journalists, students, and researchers.
• Encourages practical AI use cases like digesting long court documents or summarizing email exchanges.
🎮 Chachi’s Video Game Minute
• FBI seizes 7 ROM sites; 3.2 million illegal downloads valued at $170M.
• Google Gemini AI refuses to play chess after other AIs lose—possibly demonstrating learning.
• Stardew Valley dethrones Portal 2 as Steam’s highest-rated game after 14 years.
📽 Bonus: Side Mentions & Upcoming Events
• Picklesburgh recap: Sorg and Intern John discuss crowds, cream soda, and floating pickles.
• Upcoming media coverage from Tekko Anime Convention in Pittsburgh.
• Talk of live reaction content like “Don’t Copy That Floppy” and other nostalgic tech PSAs.
• Reminder of the Patreon-exclusive content and shoutouts to show supporters.
In Episode 740 of AwesomeCast, hosts Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar go full geek across Pittsburgh happenings, practical gadgets, and a dash of nostalgia. From the chaotic charm of Picklesburgh to high-tech fire truck cameras, we spotlight local events, incredible DIY tools, and how Pokémon made its way to the Pope. Discover how furries raised nearly $90,000 for a cat rescue, explore Chuck E. Cheese’s adult-only arcade concept, and find out if AirPods Pro can double as hearing aids. Plus, LEGO Babylon 5, TSA updates, and more tech-fueled fun.
🎙️ Subscribe and never miss an episode!
🔗 More at AwesomeCast.com
Picklesburgh 2024 Preview
Massive footprint across multiple bridges in Pittsburgh
Features include pickle-themed food and drinks, “pickle riding,” and the Pickle Triathlon
Local traffic heads-up: American Mile Race overlaps on Friday night
Anthrocon’s Generous Impact
Anthrocon 2024 raises over $89,000 for Nose-to-Tail Rescue
Volunteers celebrated for their dedication and cat-themed cause
Awesome Gadget: Electric Chipper Shredder
Dave Podnar reviews Harbor Freight’s Portland Electric Chipper
Affordable alternative to rental wood chippers for yardwork and DIY mulch
High-Tech Safety for First Responders
Sorg previews an SAE podcast with Oshkosh & Pratt Miller
Motorsports camera tech adapted for fire trucks to alert to high-speed dangers
Oshkosh is behind USPS’s futuristic electric mail trucks
Cat Tales & Adoption Resources
Monty the Cone-Cat joins the show
Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh praised for facilities and kitten yoga
Link shared to support adoptions
AirPods Pro 2 as Hearing Aids
Discussion on Apple’s assistive features and built-in hearing tests
Comparison to expensive traditional hearing aids
Chuck E. Cheese’s “Chuck’s Arcade” for Adults
Adult-only arcade concept launches in select markets
Plays on nostalgia with games, prizes, and maybe subpar pizza
McDonald’s Mini Happy Meal Toy Inception
Sorg breaks down the layers of toy-inside-a-toy Happy Meal surprise
App ordering and airport travel tips shared
LEGO Babylon 5 Spaceship Build
Fan-created rotating Earth ship model captures show’s sci-fi engineering
Tribute to a beloved but underrepresented sci-fi series
Pope Francis Signs a Pokémon Card
Reddit user gets a holographic Popplio card signed by the Pope
Hilarious, heartfelt intersection of faith and fandom
TSA Ends Mandatory Shoe Removal (Somewhat)
New screening tech may eliminate outdated policies
Sorg, Katie, and Dave celebrate a win for frequent travelers
Bonus Topics for Patreon Members:
Thoughts on Gmail’s new subscription management
A critical revisit to a previously featured app
Jack Dorsey’s encrypted Bluetooth chat app breakdown
In this eclectic and geek-fueled episode of AwesomeCast, Michael Sorg and Katie Dudas (with a quick cameo from Dave Podnar) dive into everything from espresso martinis and new podcasts to the latest in airport infrastructure and retro gaming. Plus, get a firsthand review of Google’s experimental AI fashion app and marvel at micro-sized McDonald’s nostalgia. This week’s Chachi Says Video Game Minute also brings a science twist to gaming’s effects on stress and autism research. From Lego X-Files to Denver’s Eye of Sauron, it’s an awesome mix of tech, nostalgia, and the downright bizarre.
🔗 Find more at awesomecast.com and support the show at patreon.com/awesomecast
🟣 Katie’s Awesome Thing:
Pittsburgh Her Podcast launch party: A biweekly podcast from 5 prominent Pittsburgh women covering topics from menopause to mental health and therapy. Produced with YaJagoff Media and Pittsburgh Magazine.
🛫 Dave’s Awesome Thing:
Pittsburgh Airport Modernization Beta Testing: Volunteers can sign up to roleplay airport passengers in September to stress-test the $1.7B redesigned terminal—promising faster baggage, better layout, and improved security.
🎮 Sorg’s Awesome Thing:
Antstream Arcade on Xbox Game Pass: Retro gaming fans rejoice with a huge catalog of classic Activision and Sierra titles, including MechWarrior 2 and Pitfall, now accessible through cloud streaming.
🧠 Chachi Says Video Game Minute:
Science shows gaming reduces stress across genres.
A new racing game, Hafty Kart, aids autism research by analyzing how children learn through motor skills and cues.
🕹️ New Tech & Weird News:
A Computer & Video Game Museum is relocating to Penn Hills, PA from Baltimore, promising a permanent collection of retro tech.
Google Labs’ Doppel App lets users try on digital outfits via AI from just one full-body photo—fun, creepy, and a little finicky.
McDonald’s launches miniature Happy Meal collectibles and a mobile AR game for a nostalgia overload.
Lego X-Files Set coming soon featuring UFO scenes and Mulder’s office—plus Wallace & Gromit kits.
🏙️ Urban Oddities:
Denver’s new proposed Eye of Sauron-style tower stirs debate and potential for city icon status.
Reddit’s Skyscraper sub highlights global architecture innovation.
Erie, PA rebrands Seawolves as the Moon Mammoths with help from John Oliver and an actual woolly mammoth bone discovery.
In this action-packed episode of AwesomeCast, hosts Michael Sorg and Katie Dudas recap their high-tech adventures at the Formula SAE EV event at Michigan International Speedway. From streaming challenges and tech problem-solving to a surprise appearance by a lizard named Hank, it’s a wild ride through the world of engineering and media production. Plus, we get geeky with a new LEGO robotics set for kids, Dragon’s Lair nostalgia on Netflix, cutting-edge photo apps, and a Godzilla-themed theater experience!
🧠 Co-hosts: Michael Sorg & Katie Dudas
🎮 Featuring: Chachi Says Video Game Minute
Formula SAE EV Production Challenges
Behind the scenes of live-streaming an EV endurance race at MIS.
Wireless transmission problems caused by walkie-talkies and environment interference.
Lessons learned: antenna placement, heat, and field improvisation.
LEGO Education Spike Prime
Katie highlights her niece’s robotics camp experience.
Introduction to LEGO’s STEAM learning set using Scratch-based coding for grades 6–8.
Real-world learning example: a color-detecting robotic dog.
Chachi Says Video Game Minute
Netflix is adapting Dragon’s Lair into a movie directed by James Bobin and produced by Ryan Reynolds.
ChatGPT loses a chess match to an Atari 2600 emulator and makes excuses.
Photo Superpowers with Adobe Project Indigo
Testing multi-image enhancement on race cars with incredible zoom and clarity.
Heat management challenges while processing high-res images on mobile.
Alamo Drafthouse Launches Godzilla Experience
Santa Clara location debuts world’s first Godzilla-themed cinema with neon merch and themed drinks.
Special July screenings of Destroy All Monsters, Mothra, and more.
T-Mobile + Starlink for Remote Connectivity
$10/month add-on brings satellite-powered messaging and app support to underserved areas.
Helpful for remote production teams or outdoor adventures.
SAE’s Civic Progress Challenge
A new virtual competition focused on vehicle accessibility for wheelchairs.
Teams modify GM’s Origin autonomous vehicle to improve inclusion.
Facebook Group Hacking Alert
Large community groups being mass reported and shut down via bot attacks.
Warning for admins: backup communication methods are essential.
Windows 10 Security Update Extension
Microsoft offers $30/year plan or 1,000 reward points to extend Windows 10 support post-October 2025.
Massive Data Breach Affecting Billions
16 billion credentials exposed across platforms like Google, Apple, and Facebook.
Urgent reminder: use password managers, enable 2FA, and rotate credentials.
🎧 Find more tech talk at AwesomeCast.com and SorgatronMedia.com
Live from the Hampton Inn in Adrian, Michigan, the AwesomeCast crew brings another jam-packed episode of tech talk and geeky goodness! Michael Sorg, Katie Dudas, and Dave Podnar discuss their latest adventures covering the Formula SAE Electric Vehicle competition, highlighting the gear upgrades and behind-the-scenes prep for video production and livestreaming.
Katie showcases her new favorite budget-friendly sunglasses from Knockaround, with cool licensed designs like Hello Kitty, Ninja Turtles, and Transformers. Dave dives deep into Adobe’s Project Indigo, an experimental mobile camera app offering advanced AI photography features like noise reduction and reflection removal—perfect for iPhone shutterbugs.
Plus, the team reacts to Honda’s e-quad delivery vehicle that skirts regulation by legally qualifying as an e-bike, and shares a spooky tech conspiracy from the Denver International Airport.
📺 Also: The ChachiSays Video Game Minute covers PS5 surpassing PS4 in monthly users, MLB The Show helping a real-life pitcher improve his game, and the reveal of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7!
Find more episodes and tech adventures at AwesomeCast.com and SorgatronMedia.com.
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🧠 Episode Topics & Segment Summary
• Behind the Scenes of Formula SAE EV
• Gear upgrades for livestreaming: new SDI cables, ponchos, wireless units (Hollyland Cosmos), SD cards, and SSDs (Samsung T7s)
• Hotel and Amazon locker logistics for mobile media work
• Challenges with sound capture for electric vehicles
• Katie’s Awesome Thing: Knockaround Sunglasses
• Affordable, stylish, and polarized sunglasses
• Collaborations include Hello Kitty, Transformers, Ninja Turtles, and sports teams
• Prescription options available
• Dave’s Awesome Thing: Adobe Project Indigo
• AI-enhanced iPhone camera app for cleaner, natural-looking photos
• Features: reflection removal, noise reduction, and RAW+JPEG export
• Integrated with Lightroom Mobile
• News: Kraft Heinz x Uber Eats Partnership
• Highlighting restaurants that use Heinz ketchup
• A nod to Pittsburgh pride despite Heinz’s downsizing
• Conspiracy Fun: Denver Airport’s Secret Symbols
• Alien, Freemason, and lizard people-themed construction signage
• Design eerily resembles banned shapes (😳) from aerial view
• Honda’s e-Quad Vehicle
• Battery-powered delivery quad classified as an e-bike to bypass regulations
• Swappable batteries, cargo capacity up to 650 lbs
• Example of regulation-dodging innovation
• ChachiSays Video Game Minute
• PS5 now has more monthly players than PS4 for the first time
• MLB The Show helped pitcher Justin Garza improve performance
• Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 announced with futuristic weapons and 2035 setting
On this episode of AwesomeCast, co-hosts Michael Sorg and Dave Podnar welcome Greg McMillan of the iPhoneography Podcast to unpack Apple’s latest WWDC 2024 announcements. From the iOS 18 redesign with liquid glass effects to groundbreaking video tools and local AI integrations, the crew dives into the most impressive—and sometimes frustrating—developments. They explore the new iPad OS multitasking features, how Final Cut might be more viable on mobile, and what spatial scene photography could mean for creative workflows. Plus, they break down the new CarPlay UI upgrades, AI assistant integrations like ChatGPT, and potential applications for live streaming and podcasting. Chachi returns with a jam-packed Video Game Minute covering PlayStation updates, Imagine Dragons entering game dev, and how even 90-year-olds are gaming now. And yes, there’s some solid Apple vs Android real talk with pro wrestler Zeke Mercer.
Find more episodes and tech insights at AwesomeCast.com and SorgatronMedia.com
📱 WWDC 2024 Highlights
iOS 18 introduces “liquid glass” UI redesign.
First significant visual update since iOS 7.
iPad OS features floating windows, a menu bar, and more Mac-like multitasking.
macOS and watchOS follow new naming standard: “2026” suffix across the board.
🧠 Apple Intelligence & AI Features
Integration of ChatGPT and potential for other LLMs.
On-device AI for writing assistance and context-aware suggestions.
New “Image Playground” lets users generate AI art from selfies, now more photorealistic.
Spatial scene photos introduce a 3D effect to standard photos.
🎙️ Media Production Enhancements
Potential for better live streaming and podcast production using Apple devices.
New APIs allow multi-cam support and on-device audio/video processing.
Tools for developers to build local, bandwidth-efficient recording tools for interviews.
🚗 CarPlay Upgrades
Widgets and live activities like flight trackers and food apps coming to CarPlay.
CarPlay UI now adapts to specific screen resolutions and formats.
New “CarPlay Ultra” debuted exclusively in Aston Martin models.
📞 Call Screening & Language Features
Siri-based live call screening with transcription before answering.
New language translation support for calls, FaceTime, and even Apple Music karaoke.
🎮 Chachi Says Video Game Minute
Gen Z to Gen Alpha: gaming engagement continues to rise.
Highlights from Sony’s State of Play including Marvel vs Capcom 4v4, 007 game.
Imagine Dragons announces game studio & new CTF title “Last Flag.”
🧠 Additional Discussion Points
Caution about using developer/public betas.
Comparison of iPhone vs Android camera performance.
The challenges of privacy vs AI innovation on Apple platforms.
Commentary from Zeke Mercer on Apple vs Android tradeoffs for content creators.
