The panel explores Tim Cook’s high-stakes White House visit, where Apple secured tariff exemptions with a $100B U.S. investment, earning both praise and debate over strategy. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Eric Bolden, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Marty Jencius, Web Bixby, Jim Rea, and Jeff Gamet also unpack Elon Musk’s accusations that Apple is favoring OpenAI in App Store rankings, questioning the merits and motives behind the claim. Alongside, the group touches on Sonos overheating issues, weather stories, and new gear finds.  

Today’s MacVoices is supported by Insta360 and their new GO Ultra, the tiny 4K camera that goes everywhere with you. Visit store.Insta360.com and use the come “MacVoices” for a free set of Sticky Tabs.

Chapters:

[0:25] Panel introductions, vacations, and weather stories

Links:

Jeff’s Camera: The Obsbot Me 2

PSA: Sonos Roam speakers are overheating and partially melting, company admits https://9to5mac.com/2025/08/05/sonos-roam-speakers-are-overheating-and-partially-melting-company-admits/

Tim Cook gifts Trump with ‘unique unit of one’ etched plaque with a 24K gold base 

Apple exempt from 100% semiconductor tariffs, thanks to its $100B U.S. investment

Elon Musk accuses Apple of favoring OpenAI in App Store rankings, promises legal action.

Guests:

Web Bixby has been in the insurance business for 40 years and has been an Apple user for longer than that.You can catch up with him on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but prefers Bluesky.

Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitter, by email at [email protected], on Mastodon at @[email protected], on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast.

Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @[email protected].

Jeff Gamet is a technology blogger, podcaster, author, and public speaker. Previously, he was The Mac Observer’s Managing Editor, and the TextExpander Evangelist for Smile. He has presented at Macworld Expo, RSA Conference, several WordCamp events, along with many other conferences. You can find him on several podcasts such as The Mac Show, The Big Show, MacVoices, Mac OS Ken, This Week in iOS, and more. Jeff is easy to find on social media as @jgamet on Twitter and Instagram, jeffgamet on LinkedIn., @[email protected] on Mastodon, and on his YouTube Channel at YouTube.com/jgamet.

David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @[email protected].

Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession ‘firsts,’ including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC).

Jim Rea built his own computer from scratch in 1975, started programming in 1977, and has been an independent Mac developer continuously since 1984. He is the founder of ProVUE Development, and the author of Panorama X, ProVUE's ultra fast RAM based database software for the macOS platform. He’s been a speaker at MacTech, MacWorld Expo and other industry conferences. Follow Jim at provue.com and via @[email protected] on Mastodon.

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Spotify faces backlash after exposing listener data, including the questionable musical tastes of one high-profile user, raising questions about default privacy settings. Amazon restructures Wondery, cutting staff while shifting podcasts under Audible and exploring video strategies, sparking debate about the future of scripted, high-production shows. Finally, Microsoft draws criticism from Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Eric Bolden, Marty Jencius, Web Bixby, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Jim Rea, and Mark Fuccio for quietly steering Bing users toward Copilot, highlighting growing competition in AI search and the blurred lines between helpful integration and aggressive promotion. 

Take Control Books brings you this edition of MacVoices. Get the answers you need now from leading experts.

Chapters:

[0:00] Spotify’s security shenanigans and user data exposure

[0:42] Playlist privacy, podcast listening data, and defaults

[2:47] Privacy concerns around podcasts vs. music

[3:30] Amazon shifts Wondery and podcast strategy

[5:45] The rise of video podcasts and scripted shows

[7:32] Layoffs at Wondery and financial motivations

[8:28] Audible integration and Amazon’s content plans

[9:31] Celebrity-driven podcasts and popularity trends

[12:43] Production costs and sustainability concerns

[13:38] Wondery sponsorships and podcast evolution

[14:47] Microsoft Copilot controversy in Bing search

[16:24] Comparing Google Gemini and Bing AI experiences

[18:16] Panel wrap-up and closing thoughts

Links:

Spotify exposed: Private listening habits of politicians, journalists and tech bros leaked in a privacy meltdown

https://www.idownloadblog.com/2025/07/31/spotify-playlist-leak-privacy/

Spotify's lax privacy means anyone can see the Vice President's song choices 

https://www.engadget.com/cybersecurity/spotifys-lax-privacy-means-anyone-can-see-the-vice-presidents-song-choices-123015427.html

Amazon Shifts Its Podcast Strategy, Eliminating 100 Wondery Jobs

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/04/business/media/amazon-wondery-podcasts-layoffs.html?unlocked_article_code=1.b08.1l-v.0TtauLIcRKQG&smid=url-share

Microsoft Is Trying to Trick You Into Using Copilot

https://lifehacker.com/tech/microsoft-is-trying-to-trick-you-into-using-copilot-again

Guests:

Web Bixby has been in the insurance business for 40 years and has been an Apple user for longer than that.You can catch up with him on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but prefers Bluesky.

Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitter, by email at [email protected], on Mastodon at @[email protected], on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast.

Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @[email protected].

Mark Fuccio is actively involved in high tech startup companies, both as a principle at piqsure.com, or as a marketing advisor through his consulting practice Tactics Sells High Tech, Inc. Mark was a proud investor in Microsoft from the mid-1990's selling in mid 2000, and hopes one day that MSFT will be again an attractive investment. You can contact Mark through Twitter, LinkedIn, or on Mastodon.

David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @[email protected].

Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession ‘firsts,’ including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC).

Jim Rea built his own computer from scratch in 1975, started programming in 1977, and has been an independent Mac developer continuously since 1984. He is the founder of ProVUE Development, and the author of Panorama X, ProVUE's ultra fast RAM based database software for the macOS platform. He’s been a speaker at MacTech, MacWorld Expo and other industry conferences. Follow Jim at provue.com and via @[email protected] on Mastodon.

Support:

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Chuck Joiner and Norbert Frassa share their hands-on impressions of the AUKEY MagFusion 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station with Qi2 Active Cooling. They discuss real-world use on both desk and nightstand setups, charging performance for iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods, fan cooling effectiveness, and overall value.

Chapters:

[0:00] Introduction to Aukey MagFusion 3-in-1 charging station

[1:18] Personal experiences and daily use cases

[2:28] Desk vs. nightstand charging setups

[3:24] Charging habits and Apple Watch use

[4:47] Watch band compatibility with charging dock

[7:00] Built-in fan and cooling system

[8:18] AirPods charging improvements

[9:22] iPhone orientation and display features

[11:32] Fast charging performance and included accessories

[13:45] Final thoughts, pricing, and recommendations

[15:04] Future plans for more product briefings

Links:

AUKEY LC-MC311A MagFusion Wireless 3 in 1 Charging Station with Qi2 Active Cooling

Guests:

Norbert Frassa is a technology “man about town”. Follow him on Twitter and see what he’s up to.

Support:

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The panel examines Tim Cook’s record tenure, Apple’s leadership future, and the company’s innovation challenges. Debates include whether the next CEO should come from inside or outside, Apple’s reinvention cycle, the Vision Pro’s role, and the balance between privacy and business growth. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Eric Bolden, Marty Jencius, Web Bixby, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Jim Rea, and Mark Fuccio also assess Adobe’s free AI tool, raising questions about user trust and data security for online free services. 

This edition of MacVoices is supported by MacVoices After Dark. What happens before and after the shows is uncensored, on-topic, off-topic, and always off the wall. Sign up as a MacVoices Patron and get access!
http://patreon.com/macvoices

Chapters:

[0:00] Tim Cook’s Tenure Surpasses Steve Jobs
[1:57] Inside vs. Outside Candidates for Apple CEO
[2:48] Apple’s Need for Reinvention and Innovation
[5:28] Organizational Culture and Leadership Models
[7:26] The Vision Pro as a Halo Product
[9:58] Privacy, Product Ethos, and CEO Background
[11:26] Innovation, Growth, and Flatlining Debate
[12:56] Ecosystem Strength and Regulatory Pressures
[14:55] Devices, Services, and Apple’s Lane
[18:03] Stock Performance and CEO Decisions
[19:24] Engineering Backgrounds in CEO History
[22:13] Adobe’s Free AI Tool and Privacy Concerns
[27:28] Academic and Business Views on Online Tools
[29:16] CEO Backgrounds: Spindler and Emilio
[31:02] Lessons from Past Apple Leadership

Links:

Tim Cook’s Reign as Apple’s CEO Has Now Lasted Longer Than Steve Jobs’ Entire Tenure 
https://www.mactrast.com/2025/08/tim-cooks-reign-as-apples-ceo-has-now-lasted-longer-than-steve-jobs-entire-tenure/

This free Adobe tool offers Photoshop-strength background removal
https://www.fastcompany.com/91375212/remove-background-free-adobe-express

Guests:

Web Bixby has been in the insurance business for 40 years and has been an Apple user for longer than that.You can catch up with him on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but prefers Bluesky.

Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitter, by email at [email protected], on Mastodon at @[email protected], on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast.

Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @[email protected].

Mark Fuccio is actively involved in high tech startup companies, both as a principle at piqsure.com, or as a marketing advisor through his consulting practice Tactics Sells High Tech, Inc. Mark was a proud investor in Microsoft from the mid-1990's selling in mid 2000, and hopes one day that MSFT will be again an attractive investment. You can contact Mark through Twitter, LinkedIn, or on Mastodon.

David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @[email protected].

Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession ‘firsts,’ including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC).

Jim Rea built his own computer from scratch in 1975, started programming in 1977, and has been an independent Mac developer continuously since 1984. He is the founder of ProVUE Development, and the author of Panorama X, ProVUE's ultra fast RAM based database software for the macOS platform. He’s been a speaker at MacTech, MacWorld Expo and other industry conferences. Follow Jim at provue.com and via @[email protected] on Mastodon.

Support:

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The panel discusses Dropbox ending its password service, Sengled smart bulb Alexa support being pulled, and Apple joining other tech giants to digitize healthcare records. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Eric Bolden, Marty Jencius, Web Bixby, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Jim Rea, and Mark Fuccio debate interoperability challenges, Apple’s evolving AI strategy and privacy trade-offs, celebrate 3 billion iPhones sold, and examine Apple’s lawsuit against Apple Cinemas for trademark concerns after its San Francisco expansion. 

Take Control Books brings you this edition of MacVoices. Get the answers you need now from leading experts.

Chapters:

[0:00] Introductions and Panel Banter
[3:55] Public Service Announcements: Dropbox Passwords, Sengled Alexa Support
[9:12] Apple Joins Push to Digitize Healthcare Records
[22:15] Apple’s AI Strategy and “Answers” Team Discussion
[33:27] 3 Billion iPhones Sold: Milestone Reflections
[38:49] Apple Lawsuit Against Apple Cinemas Expansion

Links:

Users left scrambling for a plan B as Dropbox drops Dropbox Passwords
https://www.theregister.com/2025/07/30/dropbox_drops_dropbox_passwords/

Amazon yanks Sengled’s Alexa skill after a series of service outages
https://www.pcworld.com/article/2864586/amazon-yanks-sengleds-alexa-skill-after-a-series-of-service-outages.html

Apple and others back government plan to digitize healthcare https://appleinsider.com/articles/25/07/30/apple-and-others-back-government-plan-to-digitize-healthcare

XKCD
https://xkcd.com/927/

Apple now looking to rival ChatGPT with a new in-house 'Answers' team: report
https://9to5mac.com/2025/08/03/apple-rivaling-chatgpt-with-new-internal-team-report/

Tim Cook holds company-wide meeting to address Apple’s AI woes
https://9to5mac.com/2025/08/01/tim-cook-holds-company-wide-meeting-to-address-apples-ai-woes/

Tim Cook: Apple just sold its three-billionth iPhone
https://9to5mac.com/2025/07/31/tim-cook-apple-just-sold-its-three-billionth-iphone/

Apple Files Lawsuit Against Owners of Apple Cinemas for Attempting to Capitalize on Its Name 
https://www.mactrast.com/2025/08/apple-files-lawsuit-against-owners-of-apple-cinemas-for-attempting-to-capitalize-on-its-name/

Guests:

Web Bixby has been in the insurance business for 40 years and has been an Apple user for longer than that.You can catch up with him on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but prefers Bluesky.

Eric Bolden is into macOS, plants, sci-fi, food, and is a rural internet supporter. You can connect with him on Twitter, by email at [email protected], on Mastodon at @[email protected], on his blog, Trending At Work, and as co-host on The Vision ProFiles podcast.

Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @[email protected].

Mark Fuccio is actively involved in high tech startup companies, both as a principle at piqsure.com, or as a marketing advisor through his consulting practice Tactics Sells High Tech, Inc. Mark was a proud investor in Microsoft from the mid-1990's selling in mid 2000, and hopes one day that MSFT will be again an attractive investment. You can contact Mark through Twitter, LinkedIn, or on Mastodon.

David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @[email protected].

Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession ‘firsts,’ including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC).

Jim Rea built his own computer from scratch in 1975, started programming in 1977, and has been an independent Mac developer continuously since 1984. He is the founder of ProVUE Development, and the author of Panorama X, ProVUE's ultra fast RAM based database software for the macOS platform. He’s been a speaker at MacTech, MacWorld Expo and other industry conferences. Follow Jim at provue.com and via @[email protected] on Mastodon.

Support:

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Connect:

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The panel debates Microsoft’s pushy AI search in Edge, privacy concerns over Copilot Memory, and compares AI tools like Perplexity and ChatGPT for search relevance. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Marty Jencius, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Web Bixby, Guy Serle, Jim Rea, and Jeff Gamet question Microsoft’s past use of China-based engineers for U.S. military support, review a possible iPhone 17 sighting, and discuss Apple’s testing secrecy.  

Today's MacVoices is supported by TV+ Talk, our MacVoices series with Charlotte Henry focused on Apple TV+. From shows and other content to the business side there’s always something to learn about apple’s streaming service. Find it at the Categories listings on the web site or go directly to macvoices.com/category/tv-talk.

Chapters:

[0:38] Microsoft’s AI Browser and Pushy Search Prompts
[3:33] Perplexity vs. ChatGPT Search Quality
[6:06] Copilot Memory and Personalization Privacy Concerns
[8:00] Different AI Tools for Different Needs
[11:00] Microsoft’s China-Based Military Support Controversy
[13:22] AI Search Engine Recommendations Document
[15:26] Alleged iPhone 17 Sighting in San Francisco
[18:48] Public Testing vs. Secrecy in Apple Prototypes
[22:32] Could Apple Leak Prototypes on Purpose?
[24:50] Closing Roundtable and Podcast Plugs

Links:

Microsoft trials Copilot Mode in Edge
https://www.engadget.com/ai/microsoft-trials-copilot-mode-in-edge-201851903.html

Copilot doesn't just remember, it also understands you
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-copilot/for-individuals/do-more-with-ai/general-ai/ai-that-doesnt-just-remember-it-gets-you?form=MA13KP

Microsoft’s controversial Recall feature is now blocked by Brave and AdGuard
https://www.theverge.com/news/713676/brave-adguard-windows-recall-block-microsoft

Microsoft to stop using engineers in China for tech support of US military, Hegseth orders review
https://www.reuters.com/world/us/microsoft-stop-using-engineers-china-tech-support-us-military-hegseth-orders-2025-07-18/

iPhone 17 development device spotted in the wild
https://appleinsider.com/articles/25/07/28/iphone-17-development-device-spotted-in-the-wild

Guests:

Web Bixby has been in the insurance business for 40 years and has been an Apple user for longer than that.You can catch up with him on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but prefers Bluesky.

Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @[email protected].

Jeff Gamet is a technology blogger, podcaster, author, and public speaker. Previously, he was The Mac Observer’s Managing Editor, and the TextExpander Evangelist for Smile. He has presented at Macworld Expo, RSA Conference, several WordCamp events, along with many other conferences. You can find him on several podcasts such as The Mac Show, The Big Show, MacVoices, Mac OS Ken, This Week in iOS, and more. Jeff is easy to find on social media as @jgamet on Twitter and Instagram, jeffgamet on LinkedIn., @[email protected] on Mastodon, and on his YouTube Channel at YouTube.com/jgamet.

David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @[email protected].

Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession ‘firsts,’ including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC).

Jim Rea built his own computer from scratch in 1975, started programming in 1977, and has been an independent Mac developer continuously since 1984. He is the founder of ProVUE Development, and the author of Panorama X, ProVUE's ultra fast RAM based database software for the macOS platform. He’s been a speaker at MacTech, MacWorld Expo and other industry conferences. Follow Jim at provue.com and via @[email protected] on Mastodon.

Guy Serle, best known for being one of the co-hosts of the MyMac Podcast, sincerely apologizes for anything he has done or caused to have happened while in possession of dangerous podcasting equipment. He should know better but being a blonde from Florida means he's probably incapable of understanding the damage he has wrought. Guy is also the author of the novel, The Maltese Cube. You can follow his exploits on Twitter, catch him on Mac to the Future on Facebook, at @[email protected], and find everything at VertShark.com.

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Lee Garrett, now at the helm of ScreenCastsONLINE, shares how he went from loyal viewer to taking over from founder Don McAllister. He talks about balancing the service with his IT career, evolving content without losing its hallmark quality, and deciding when to focus on macOS/iOS updates versus app tutorials. Lee also explains their expansion on YouTube, the meticulous editing process, and his vision for future tiered courses — all while staying true to SCO’s core values. 

Today’s MacVoices is supported by CleanMyMac and the new Cloud Cleanup feature. Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use the code MACVOICES20 for 20% off at clnmy.com/MACVOICES.

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction
01:32 – Transition of ownership from Don McAllister to Lee Garrett
02:45 – Lee’s background and motivation to take over
05:08 – Balancing two careers
06:03 – Evolving content without losing tradition
08:22 – Expanding YouTube content and engagement
12:41 – How topics and apps are chosen
16:51 – Prioritizing OS updates
21:23 – Maintaining quality standards
26:57 – Future aspirations for the platform
30:03 – Creativity in app tutorials
34:08 – Hooking viewers early in videos
35:39 – Commitment to community and service
36:59 – Closing remarks

Links:

ScreenCastsONLINE On YouTube

Guests:

Lee Garrett is the Owner and Presenter at ScreenCastsONLINE. Lee has worked in the IT industry for over 20 years, working his way up from being a technician in a school, through to managing multi-million pound Transformation projects in the UK.

He joined ScreenCastsONLINE as a presenter in 2017, sharing his knowledge of Apple software that he uses to get his work done and in February 2024, took over the reins from Don McAllister as the owner, heading up a talented team, dedicated to bringing quality tutorials to you each week. In addition to this, Lee has worked as a Productivity Coach, delivering workshops in how to improve your efficiency whilst maintaining a healthy work/life balance, and Lee tries to apply some of these teachings into his ScreenCastsONLINE videos.

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The panel discusses Apple’s AI talent losses amid a rumored shift to third-party models, Meta’s aggressive recruitment, and speculation on Apple’s long-term AI strategy. Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Marty Jencius, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Web Bixby, Guy Serle, Jim Rea, and Jeff Gamet cover Sonos appointing Tom Conrad as CEO, Google’s new AI search experiment, a significant SharePoint security breach, and controversy over the women-only Tea app following a massive data exposure and class action lawsuit. 

Today’s MacVoices is supported by CleanMyMac and the new Cloud Cleanup feature. Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use the code MACVOICES20 for 20% off at clnmy.com/MACVOICES.

Chapters:

[0:00] Introduction and Apple AI researcher departure to Meta

Links:

Apple just lost another AI researcher as it weighs shift to third-party models

https://9to5mac.com/2025/07/29/apple-just-lost-another-ai-researcher-as-it-weighs-shift-to-third-party-models/

Sonos gets to keeps its CEO, as a treat

Google Might Have Made an AI Search Product I Actually Like

US nuclear weapons agency breached using Microsoft SharePoint hack

The Microsoft SharePoint breach was massive. The response has been minimal

Microsoft trials Copilot Mode in Edge

The Viral 'Tea' App Just Had a Second Data Breach, and It's Even Worse

Guests:

Web Bixby has been in the insurance business for 40 years and has been an Apple user for longer than that.You can catch up with him on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but prefers Bluesky.

Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @[email protected].

Jeff Gamet is a technology blogger, podcaster, author, and public speaker. Previously, he was The Mac Observer’s Managing Editor, and the TextExpander Evangelist for Smile. He has presented at Macworld Expo, RSA Conference, several WordCamp events, along with many other conferences. You can find him on several podcasts such as The Mac Show, The Big Show, MacVoices, Mac OS Ken, This Week in iOS, and more. Jeff is easy to find on social media as @jgamet on Twitter and Instagram, jeffgamet on LinkedIn., @[email protected] on Mastodon, and on his YouTube Channel at YouTube.com/jgamet.

David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @[email protected].

Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession ‘firsts,’ including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC).

Jim Rea built his own computer from scratch in 1975, started programming in 1977, and has been an independent Mac developer continuously since 1984. He is the founder of ProVUE Development, and the author of Panorama X, ProVUE's ultra fast RAM based database software for the macOS platform. He’s been a speaker at MacTech, MacWorld Expo and other industry conferences. Follow Jim at provue.com and via @[email protected] on Mastodon.

Guy Serle, best known for being one of the co-hosts of the MyMac Podcast, sincerely apologizes for anything he has done or caused to have happened while in possession of dangerous podcasting equipment. He should know better but being a blonde from Florida means he's probably incapable of understanding the damage he has wrought. Guy is also the author of the novel, The Maltese Cube. You can follow his exploits on Twitter, catch him on Mac to the Future on Facebook, at @[email protected], and find everything at VertShark.com.

Support:

Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon

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The panel explores three major Apple-related stories: the company’s F1 movie crossing the $500M global box office mark, the debut of Apple’s “In the Loop” section designed to centralize short-form updates and control its public messaging, and an in-depth comparison of Tim Cook’s leadership style with Steve Jobs’ legacy. Along the way, Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Marty Jencius, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Web Bixby, Guy Serle, Jim Rea, and Jeff Gamet discuss how Apple’s strategy has shifted toward services and entertainment, the continuing importance of the iPhone, and the challenges of distributing official news. The conversation also touches on iCloud scam warnings, movie theater experiences, and what might define Cook’s place in Apple history. 

Today’s MacVoices is supported by CleanMyMac and the new Cloud Cleanup feature. Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use the code MACVOICES20 for 20% off at clnmy.com/MACVOICES.

Chapters:

[0:00] Panel introductions and mic talk
[5:20] PSA: iCloud storage scam warnings
[8:38] Apple’s F1 movie surpasses $500M
[11:40] IMAX re-release and movie-going habits
[17:32] Apple launches “In the Loop” content hub
[19:30] Accessibility, RSS, and content distribution issues
[26:36] Comparing Tim Cook’s and Steve Jobs’ leadership
[32:05] Apple’s diversification beyond hardware
[39:13] The iPhone’s continuing central role
[41:19] Measuring leadership success and legacy
[43:40] Closing remarks and support acknowledgements

Links:

That Message About Cloud Storage Could Be a Scam
https://lifehacker.com/tech/cloud-storage-message-scams

Apple's F1 movie crosses $500 million at global box office
https://9to5mac.com/2025/07/27/apple-f1-movie-global-box-office-five-hundred-million/

Apple solves its social media fragmentation problem with 'In the Loop’
https://9to5mac.com/2025/07/24/apple-in-the-loop-newsroom/

AppleCare+ vs AppleCare One: Warranty services compared
https://forums.appleinsider.com/discussion/241113/applecare-vs-applecare-one-warranty-services-compared

Tim Cook isn't going to get fired, and Steve Jobs isn't rolling over in his grave
https://appleinsider.com/articles/25/07/04/tim-cook-isnt-going-to-get-fired-and-steve-jobs-isnt-rolling-over-in-his-grave

Guests:

Web Bixby has been in the insurance business for 40 years and has been an Apple user for longer than that.You can catch up with him on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, but prefers Bluesky.

Brian Flanigan-Arthurs is an educator with a passion for providing results-driven, innovative learning strategies for all students, but particularly those who are at-risk. He is also a tech enthusiast who has a particular affinity for Apple since he first used the Apple IIGS as a student. You can contact Brian on twitter as @brian8944. He also recently opened a Mastodon account at @[email protected].

Jeff Gamet is a technology blogger, podcaster, author, and public speaker. Previously, he was The Mac Observer’s Managing Editor, and the TextExpander Evangelist for Smile. He has presented at Macworld Expo, RSA Conference, several WordCamp events, along with many other conferences. You can find him on several podcasts such as The Mac Show, The Big Show, MacVoices, Mac OS Ken, This Week in iOS, and more. Jeff is easy to find on social media as @jgamet on Twitter and Instagram, jeffgamet on LinkedIn., @[email protected] on Mastodon, and on his YouTube Channel at YouTube.com/jgamet.

David Ginsburg is the host of the weekly podcast In Touch With iOS where he discusses all things iOS, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Apple Watch, and related technologies. He is an IT professional supporting Mac, iOS and Windows users. Visit his YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/daveg65 and find and follow him on Twitter @daveg65 and on Mastodon at @[email protected].

Dr. Marty Jencius has been an Associate Professor of Counseling at Kent State University since 2000. He has over 120 publications in books, chapters, journal articles, and others, along with 200 podcasts related to counseling, counselor education, and faculty life. His technology interest led him to develop the counseling profession ‘firsts,’ including listservs, a web-based peer-reviewed journal, The Journal of Technology in Counseling, teaching and conferencing in virtual worlds as the founder of Counselor Education in Second Life, and podcast founder/producer of CounselorAudioSource.net and ThePodTalk.net. Currently, he produces a podcast about counseling and life questions, the Circular Firing Squad, and digital video interviews with legacies capturing the history of the counseling field. This is also co-host of The Vision ProFiles podcast. Generally, Marty is chasing the newest tech trends, which explains his interest in A.I. for teaching, research, and productivity. Marty is an active presenter and past president of the NorthEast Ohio Apple Corp (NEOAC).

Jim Rea built his own computer from scratch in 1975, started programming in 1977, and has been an independent Mac developer continuously since 1984. He is the founder of ProVUE Development, and the author of Panorama X, ProVUE's ultra fast RAM based database software for the macOS platform. He’s been a speaker at MacTech, MacWorld Expo and other industry conferences. Follow Jim at provue.com and via @[email protected] on Mastodon.

Guy Serle, best known for being one of the co-hosts of the MyMac Podcast, sincerely apologizes for anything he has done or caused to have happened while in possession of dangerous podcasting equipment. He should know better but being a blonde from Florida means he's probably incapable of understanding the damage he has wrought. Guy is also the author of the novel, The Maltese Cube. You can follow his exploits on Twitter, catch him on Mac to the Future on Facebook, at @[email protected], and find everything at VertShark.com.

Support:

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Connect:

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Roman Kaplun and Oleksandr “Sasha” Kravchuk from MacPaw unveil Cloud Cleanup, a new CleanMyMac feature designed to help users manage and optimize cloud storage across iCloud, Google Drive, and OneDrive. Using native macOS APIs, it ensures privacy by never accessing login credentials directly and working entirely on-device. Cloud Cleanup can unsync local files to free up Mac space or delete unnecessary items from the cloud to reduce storage costs. It integrates CleanMyMac’s familiar tools like Space Lens, offers user control before deletions, and plans to add Dropbox and additional connection options in future updates, with user feedback guiding development. 

This edition of MacVoices is brought to you by the MacVoices Dispatch, our weekly newsletter that keeps you up-to-date on any and all MacVoices-related information. Subscribe today and don't miss a thing.

Chapters:

[0:35] MacPaw team introduction
[1:30] Cloud Cleanup overview
[3:01] Security and privacy approach
[4:46] Supported cloud services
[8:11] Main use cases and benefits
[10:57] Comparison to CleanMyMac functions
[13:08] Privacy safeguards
[13:25] Development background
[18:34] UX design challenges
[18:43] Dropbox support discussion
[22:26] Integration into CleanMyMac
[24:35] Additional connection methods
[27:14] How to learn more and give feedback
[29:37] Connecting with the MacPaw team

Links:

Guests:

Oleksandr “Sasha” Kravchuk has been working in product and graphic design for 20 years. In that time, he’s helped train dozens of designers to implement data-driven approaches to user experience construction. A Design Director at MacPaw, his work on CleanMyMac has received multiple design and UX accolades, including the recent visual revamp, which earned two Webby Award nominations for Best User Experience and Best Practices. Find him on LinkedIn.

Roman Kaplun is a Senior Engineering Manager at MacPaw, responsible for overseeing all engineering and product development for CleanMyMac. For over fifteen years, Roman has led global engineering teams across industries, including investment banking, payment processing, and B2B SaaS, with a primary focus on delivering customer value and building robust technology solutions. Connect with him on LinkedIn.

Support:

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