This week, we take a look at Tesla-competitor Rivian, and the company's unconventional efforts to take the top spot as an EV automaker. First, Rivian's new R1T makes a direct appeal to the adventure-seekers in the world, even showcasing its rugged nature through a trip from South America to California - all captured on an Apple TV special. But taking an Electric Vehicle off the beaten path comes with its own challenges and hurdles. How is the company keeping people charged up before they head out on their offroad journeys?

Plus, Rivian invites tech journalists, but bans auto journalists from getting a first look at the new pickup. There is a lot to enjoy when it comes to built-in tech features, so it is perhaps understandable that the company would want to show those off first. But does that contradict the core audience the R1T is going for? And does it show a possible effort by Rivian to cover up for inadequacies in the truck's design? We discuss.

Plus, TikTok trending songs are ruling the charts. And while that is a cool showcase of the power the platform has on pop culture... the songs all sound pretty similar. And many are built around a hook-line that can be repeated to infinity for the sake of a video. Furthermore, the shift in the industry is changing the way artists and producers compose songs. What does this mean for the future of pop music? Is this the beginning of the end for complex music? Or is it just another phase no different than the the romanticized era of music from our past?

It's all up for discussion. Let's get into it!

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This week, a special episode based on a question we received during a livestream! John was asked what it's like to face the criticism he and other members of the media receive on a consistent basis. Part of his response includes what it's like to battle vaccine deniers, among the most dividing of topics in our country today.

Discussion includes why people who refuse to get the vaccine are willing to take medicine not directly approved for COVID, how it became acceptable to claim to know more than experts on their own jobs, and why people believe their opinions should be regarded as fact.

Plus, the role social media plays in vaccine confusion, mask debate, and the disillusionment with COVID. How a variety of platforms are giving voices to a loud minority, and give an opportunity for those simply wanting to be wanted.

It's an impromptu Catchup. Join the discussion!

Listen to Dev Omar's "Telly" featuring John HERE

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So much for us to talk about this week, so let's jump right into it!

First, a controversial argument against the vaccine, courtesy Nicki Minaj. The rapper shares an inside scoop about her cousin's friend's swollen... plums, after getting the vaccine. But, an investigation in the country of Trinidad revealed there was no such case. What's the reason, then, for the wild claim? And is this a cover up for another controversial situation in her personal life?

Next, Rolling Stone releases an updated 500 Best Songs of All Time list... but is it accurate? Debatable placements in the top 10 and beyond have people reacting on social media. But is this list a true report by an established organization in music journalism? Or is it intended to gaslight and get you talking?

Then, a couple of reveals. First, a new look at Gran Turismo 7. Will the most realistic driving simulator finally follow through on promises made for over a decade? What do we expect out of some of the intended new features? And, will it live up to the hype? Next, Apple releases an all-new iPhone.... or is it? As with every new update, the iPhone 13 boasts some new features. But are they worth the upgrade? We discuss.

Plus, another gaslighting social media moment, this time at the Met Gala. Rep Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez arrives in a flattering gown... with the words "Tax the Rich" on it. Is this unwitting hypocrisy at one of the most prestigious fashion events on the planet? Or a designed ploy to stay in the spotlight?

A lot for us to talk about! Let's go ahead and get into it!

LISTEN TO "TELLY" BY DEV OMAR HERE

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This week, is Apple being hypocritical about the company’s commitment to keeping your information private? New security measures planned for the next iOS are garnering heated reactions, even forcing Apple to delay their launch. One uses an onboard AI to block potentially harmful images (I.e., nudes) from being sent to children and teens. Another scans your photos - shared on iCloud - to monitor for illegal content, such as child pornography. Is this overreach by Apple, and a glimpse of them monitoring your private life? Or has the company developed a method to monitor for criminal activity (like their competitors) with as much of a hands-off approach as possible? We discuss. 

Then, Microsoft Offices (pun intended) remain closed! With the COVID Delta Variant on the rise, the company is choosing to keep many employees remote. This goes counter to their tech giant competitors, Apple and Google, who are threatening employees who refuse to return to the office with things like pay cuts. What benefit does each decision have for each company? How will the Biden Administration’s new vaccine plan impact each company’s decision in remote vs in-office? And is this move by Microsoft a slight flex of their remote work functions? It’s all open for discussion!

Plus, an EXCLUSIVE sneak peak of Dev Omar’s upcoming single “Telly”, featuring John on production and vocals! Pre-save the tune on Spotify HERE! The track drops Friday, September 17th, and we’re very excited to share it with you all. 

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Anytime Drake drops a new album, it gets the whole world talking. And we at The Catchup, are no exception. This week, we break down Certified Lover Boy, and what makes it unique compared to its counterparts. One example is Drake's honesty in sharing what some would call a "toxically masculine" approach to his love life. We discuss why what some consider negative lyrics are actually a positive take and a deep way to connect with the listeners through storytelling.

Plus, what's up with all the Drake hate? We as a society have a hard time appreciating anything good without tearing it down. And for far too long, social media has given a voice to keyboard warriors that likely don't deserve it. This discussion is based on people gaslighting Drake on his own album release livestream. How this provides an insight into our society's hater culture, how it is stripping away society's ability for any new "heroes", and much more on this week's episode.

Also, Denison shares his trip to San Francisco, the sights and sounds of it all, how he nearly forgot he was even going in the first place, and why California tourists borderline have to take out a loan to visit the state.

It's an all-new Catchup, Join the discussion!

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This week is an IN-PERSON CATCHUP! We share the highlights of getting to hang together in the Air Capitol of the World - Wichita. But, a strange pattern continues with Denison's arrival... colder weather and stormy skies. However, no matter the severity of the situation, it doesn't compare to what's going on in Louisiana. We offer our thoughts on Hurricane Ida, and compare it to other major storms that left a lasting impact. Will we see fallout like high gas prices from this storm? We discuss.

Then, Apple loses an antitrust lawsuit that gives a greater percentage of income to small-business app developers. But the dip from Apple's 30% cut to its 15% cut is still substantial, and the line that separates small businesses from the large businesses (Apple still takes a 30% cut) is blurry. What does this mean for those businesses, the prices you'll pay for in-app purchases, and how does this impact other antitrust lawsuits against Apple that could give developers (and you) more freedom? We jump into it.

Plus, the milk crate challenge unfortunately takes a sad, deadly turn. Where do these viral trends come from? How do they end up going too far? And - with the groups regularly taking part and the areas the videos largely come from -  is this challenge a window into the racial inequality in the United States? It may seem like a stretch, but we explain it all and debate the idea in this episode. 

Join the discussion!

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This week, we discuss controversial content site OnlyFans, and the company's attempt to appeal to more investors... by doing away with the thing that made it so infamous to begin with. The company is creating a more family-friendly version of OnlyFans, and banning pornography on the main site. It joins an exclusive group of social media/content platforms to promote safe content, but are the intentions pure? Or is money once again speaking louder than words? We discuss.

Then, where are all the cheap cars? We all had that dream car when we were growing up where we thought "if I could just get a full-time job, I would buy that car." But investors, social media hype, and pop culture have sent many childhood dream rides out of site. And there's not many new options to replace them with for the next generation. We dive into the reasons for the spike in prices and notoriety for these simple dream cars. Will we ever see affordable sports cars return? What cool, affordable whips are available now? We talk about it all, and so much more!

Plus, an exclusive sneak peak of Dev Omar's new song, "Telly", featuring (and produced/mixed/mastered by) John. Check it out in the episode, and pre-save on your favorite platform HERE.

Let's get into it!

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This week, John and Denison reveal a new track featuring friend of the show, Devaughn Dorsett (Artist Name: Dev Omar). His new track "Telly", produced/mixed/master and even featuring John is due out September 17th. More details including a "behind the track" are due in the coming weeks. But in the meantime, you can follow Dev on Spotify to be among the first to know when the new track drops, HERE.

Then, a week after Denison shares his big, life-changing move, John shares his struggle in deciding what his next living situation should be. After several months having a tough time finding a home rental option that's even worthwhile, John is now debating making a sacrifice and moving into an apartment, or buying a home. Apartment positives include less care and maintenance required, support on any issues within reach, and some living costs are actually cheaper. But owning a home brings the autonomy, privacy, and security that so many desire. There's a whole more to debate, and we jump into it all with the goal of helping YOU make a similar decision in your life.

Then, it's Lamborghini's futuristic throwback. Everyone's favorite poster from the 80s - the Lamborghini Countach - is back, new, and improved. The supercar still boasts a V12, and now includes incredible hybrid technology. Still, the upgrades seem to be behind that of other super- and hypercar manufacturers. We talk about why this makes perfect sense for the automaker, how other manufacturers (and even racing series) are pushing toward a carbon neutral society, and what it could mean for the auto industry moving forward.

It's an all-new Catchup! Let's go ahead an jump into it!

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This week, an authentic and transparent episode of The Catchup. First, Denison shares his big move into a new townhome, and cohabitation with his girlfriend. It's a big step for anyone in a serious relationship. So, we chat about why now was the time to make the move, the early challenges, and what he's learned from sharing a space with another.

Then, John shares his battle with melanoma. From a sudden change in a mole on his skin since birth, to a surgery that left a cut the length of a foot. Despite the rocky path to a clear diagnosis, John shares how he stayed positive through the process despite the added stress of his vehicle being vandalized. This one comes filled with some entertaining stories from the trip to the hospital. The conversation wraps up with why positivity, seemingly-outlandish internal confidence, and faith in a higher power are keys to weathering every storm in life.

It all tees off with John's late entry to Hollywood hit Tropic Thunder. Why movies like it should be cherished - not lambasted - for the role they play in society. It's an all-new Catchup! Join the discussion!

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This week, John and Denison are once again joined by Justin and Montrell from The Players' Take Podcast for an in-depth discussion on societal standards and China's influence on gaming, and the world.

First, are men to blame for the current culture of dating? It's a question of the chicken and the egg - which came first? What spawned our selfish and sex-promoting behavior? We discuss how men have a tendency of trying too hard when it comes to dating, and losing their self worth. That causes a vicious cycle of games, manipulation, disrespect, and selling each other short. Plus, in a world driven by social media, we talk about the influence of having too many options available at your fingertips. The easy ability to "swipe" to the next contestant has made everyone expendable, and turned dating into something similar to finding the "flavor of the day" at the grocery store. We discuss where these problems stemmed from, and what major steps can be taken to solve it.

Then, tech conglomerate Tencent continues to buy up major gaming companies. The cause for concern: they're partially led by members of the Chinese government. China has a history of threatening heavy censorship against parts of Western Culture. Their market also directly influences the decisions made by major corporations in the US. We discuss why these issues, combined with China's hostile cyberattacks against the US, could spell out major trouble for our country, our culture, and our freedoms. Plus, what it could mean for the tumultuous gaming industry!

There's a lot to discuss. Let's go ahead and get into it!

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