Brothers in Tech

As much as we have loved YouTube TV as a live TV streaming service, the recent price hikes (along with several other services) have led us to look for more cost-effective ways of accessing TV content. With a few one-time purchases, some software, and a reasonable distance to some TV towers, Brian explains and shows off his plan to stick it to the man (aka, trim the services). Of course, you will also get to see & hear Alan yawning throughout the episode…but we promise it was because he was tired…not because Brian bored him. Well, mostly. Products/Apps/Services mentioned in this episode: PlexSynology2-Bay NASAntennas Direct ClearStream TV AntennaSiliconDust HDHomeRun Flex 4k tunerChannel Master TV Station Transmitter mapPhilo Streaming Service Your Hosts: Alan Jackson (the older Brother) is a producer of online content with Jackson Creative and survey researcher with Jackson Insight. Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) is an Associate Professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University and Product Director/Consultant at Senaptec, Inc. Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Visit www.Brothers-In-Tech.com or email info@themesh.tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What could be better than hearing about one of the Brothers’ struggles with technology-related issues?... That’s right, hearing about struggles from both Brothers! Well, if hearing us vent about our frustrations is your thing…this episode is for you. From Brian’s near-nightmare scamming situation…to Alan’s unwilling exploration of the inner workings of an Apple Watch, you will get your fill of self-loathing. But, have no fear…not only have we sprinkled some BiTS (Brothers in Tech Suggestions) and lessons-learned to liven things up…we also introduce you to an AI chat that might just become your best friend. Products/Apps/Services mentioned in this episode: pi.aiiFixItArtifact Your Hosts: Alan Jackson (the older Brother) is a producer of online content with Jackson Creative and survey researcher with Jackson Insight. Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) is an Associate Professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University and Product Director/Consultant at Senaptec, Inc. Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Visit www.Brothers-In-Tech.com or email info@themesh.tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you have listened to the podcast before, you know that the Brothers love automation. We are all for ways of increasing our efficiency (i.e., why use 2 steps when you can do it with 1?)…especially when there is some cool tech we can use to do it. Well, this week Alan introduces NFC tags as a way of using your phone as a way of trigging automation tasks. He walks through the process of programming the tags using Shortcuts, and we brainstorm about possible uses. As a bonus, the Brothers discuss some of the new features in iOS and MacOS that you may want to check out. Products/Apps/Services mentioned in this episode: Apple ShortcutsAmazon LinkPersonal Voice (iOS)MacOS Your Hosts: Alan Jackson (the older Brother) is a producer of online content with Jackson Creative and survey researcher with Jackson Insight. Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) is an Associate Professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University and Product Director/Consultant at Senaptec, Inc. Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Visit www.Brothers-In-Tech.com or email info@themesh.tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you are anything like us, you have what seems to be a never-ending list of things to do. How do you keep track of it all? Sticky note? Write on your palm? String on the finger? Whatever the method…if it isn’t working for you, it might be time to look for a creative solution. Although we can’t guarantee any of them will be the solution you are looking for, the Brothers provide you with a few new approaches to staying on task and chipping away at those tasks. And the best part?...We don’t spend any time talking about email this week! OK, that’s a lie…of course we talked about email. But, only for 10 minutes. 15, tops. Products/Apps/Services mentioned in this episode: Things 3TwobirdFocus To-DoSortedNotionToDoIst2Do Your Hosts: Alan Jackson (the older Brother) is a producer of online content with Jackson Creative and survey researcher with Jackson Insight. Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) is an Associate Professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University and Product Director/Consultant at Senaptec, Inc. Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Visit www.Brothers-In-Tech.com or email info@themesh.tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Well, it has been a while…but the Brothers are back. No, Alan’s beard has not grown any longer…and Brian still doesn’t have hair. But, they do have opinions! Watch/listen as the Brothers break down their initial thoughts on Apple’s iOS 17 release. Are there any show-stopper features? Any issues/concerns with upgrading? Any hidden features that you may need to search to find? You will hear about widgets, passwords, voicemail, AirTag sharing, Recovery/Legacy contacts, and more. Plus, you get to meet Beverly…and possibly rethink how smart AI services really are. Products/Apps/Services mentioned in this episode: iOS 17ReplikaOtter.ai Your Hosts: Alan Jackson (the older Brother) is a producer of online content with Jackson Creative and survey researcher with Jackson Insight. Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) is an Associate Professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University and Product Director/Consultant at Senaptec, Inc. Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Visit www.Brothers-In-Tech.com or email info@themesh.tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

To our busy fan base…we hear you. The Brothers tend to talk…and talk. We know that some of you love to hear us ramble on and deep dive into our tech topics…but we also know that sometimes you just want a quick BYTE (you see what we did there?) of tech information that you can consume on your breaks. Well, let us introduce you to the Brothers in Tech BYTES. In addition to our regular rambling episodes…we are going to be throwing out some quick episodes where we provide you with a tip/technique that you can do with your phone/tablet/computer. No additional software or hardware needed…just (sometimes) hidden features that you might want to take advantage of. The question is…can the Brothers keep the episode short? Well, one of them can… BYTES mentioned in this episode: ShortcutsTwo-finger organization of app icons/folders? Your Hosts: Alan Jackson (the older Brother) is a producer of online content with Jackson Creative and survey researcher with Jackson Insight. Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) is an Associate Professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University and Product Director/Consultant at Senaptec, Inc. Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Visit www.Brothers-In-Tech.com or email info@themesh.tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After a couple of weeks of testing out the new messaging, browser, email, and social apps we presented in the previous episode(s), the Brothers are back to give their verdicts. Which apps are still in the regular rotation, and which have been moving to app purgatory and why? Most importantly…are any of them worth your time (or money)? And, as a special treat for those who stick around to the end, we have a very important discussion of firefighters, tornados, bears…and child abduction? Products/Apps/Services mentioned in this episode: BeeperArcSparkThreads Your Hosts: Alan Jackson (the older Brother) is a producer of online content with Jackson Creative and survey researcher with Jackson Insight. Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) is an Associate Professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University and Product Director/Consultant at Senaptec, Inc. Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Visit www.Brothers-In-Tech.com or email info@themesh.tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We are always on the lookout for new apps/services/products that have the potential to increase our efficiency or allow us to do something we haven’t been able to do before…and there has been no shortage of those lately. But, it is rare for anything truly unique to occur in our regular, everyday computing functions. In this episode, however, the Brothers discuss not one, but two exciting new apps which aim to rethink the way you perform some of our most common computing tasks…web browsing and messaging. With some very intriguing features, these (currently) free apps may be worth a try. Plus, by listening to this episode, you get the bonus content of hearing how Alan broke his A/C unit right in the middle of a heat wave…which we all want to hear. Products/Apps/Services mentioned in this episode: ArcBeeper Your Hosts: Alan Jackson (the older Brother) is a producer of online content with Jackson Creative and survey researcher with Jackson Insight. Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) is an Associate Professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University and Product Director/Consultant at Senaptec, Inc. Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Visit www.Brothers-In-Tech.com or email info@themesh.tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After a few weeks off, the Brothers are back to share their latest tech suggestions that could benefit you and your family. Home automation, weight loss, harnessing the sun, and creating images…this episode covers some exciting apps and hardware. Although this episode runs a bit long (what’s new?), you will want to stick around to see which one of the Brothers will be a Jedi Knight riding a dragon. Spoiler alert…it’s Alan…but I think you probably guessed that. Alan’s Picks Lutron Pico RemoteMidjourney Brian’s Pics Simple.Life AppSynology 100w Solar Panel Suitcase Your Hosts: Alan Jackson (the older Brother) is a producer of online content with Jackson Creative and survey researcher with Jackson Insight. Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) is an Associate Professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University and Product Director/Consultant at Senaptec, Inc. Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Visit www.Brothers-In-Tech.com or email info@themesh.tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Although home automation is not a new topic for the Brothers (see the Home Automation series from 2020…including Convenience, Security, & Safety)…there are quite a few changes that have occurred across this market that are worth discussing. With both of the Brothers having recently set up or adapted their automation ecosystems, it is time to share those experiences, successes, and frustrations. If you have been thinking about using/migrating to HomeKit, you will want to listen to this episode. Listen/watch as Brian attempts to (begrudgingly) set up HomeKit (along with his Alexa environment)…and his therapy session with Alan. Luckily, Brian made a mistake in his set-up (on purpose, of course)…just so Alan could feel good about helping him to correct it. Products/Apps/Services mentioned in this episode: Apple HomeKit/Home appHomebridgeAqara Wireless Switch & HubAmazon AlexaGoogle Home Your Hosts: Alan Jackson (the older Brother) is a producer of online content with Jackson Creative and survey researcher with Jackson Insight. Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) is an Associate Professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University and Product Director/Consultant at Senaptec, Inc. Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Visit www.Brothers-In-Tech.com or email info@themesh.tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In case you haven’t been following the s%!t-show that is Twitter as of late…you might not know that there is yet another attempt at replacing the social media service. Will this “newcomer” actually have what it takes to become the new social media town square? Well, 100 million users in the first week is a pretty good start…. In this episode of Brothers in Tech, the Brothers discuss Meta’s new Threads service…how it works, pros and cons, and expectations for the future. Plus, you get to see which brother Threads believes should be following Kim Kardashian. Products/Apps/Services mentioned in this episode: TwitterThreadsInstagram Your Hosts: Alan Jackson (the older Brother) is a producer of online content with Jackson Creative and survey researcher with Jackson Insight. Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) is an Associate Professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University and Product Director/Consultant at Senaptec, Inc. Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Visit www.Brothers-In-Tech.com or email info@themesh.tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You may be completely happy with the native calendar app on your phone or computer…and if so, you may not need to listen to this episode (but of course you should…just for sheer entertainment). But, if you are like us, you may have a need for more than the standard features to keep up with all of your events. Features such as scheduling availability, weather integration, and natural language input may be enough to warrant trying something new. The Brothers discuss their must-haves and ideal calendar app features that you should consider, as well as two of the top calendar applications on the market. Which app do the Brothers use, and which do the Brothers wish they were using? You will have to watch/listen to find out. Products/Apps/Services mentioned in this episode: Apple CalendarBusyCal SetAppFantastical Your Hosts: Alan Jackson (the older Brother) is a producer of online content with Jackson Creative and survey researcher with Jackson Insight. Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) is an Associate Professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University and Product Director/Consultant at Senaptec, Inc. Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Visit www.Brothers-In-Tech.com or email info@themesh.tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It is time for the June Brothers in Tech Suggestions (BiTS) episode, and well…let’s just say the Brothers were “greased up” and ready to go. What kind of show do you get when both of the Brothers consume a few drinks beforehand? Well, you will have to watch/listen to find out. Although we are still questioning whether Alan re-gifted one of his BiTS from earlier…he certainly seems to win this battle. Some solid suggestions along with some additional tips to make your digital life more efficient…and you have yourself a show you won’t want to miss. Alan’s Picks SwitchBot Hub 2MoneyWiz Brian’s Pics Kasa Smart Dimmer SwitchBlack Shark Phone Cooler FunCooler 3 Other products/services mentioned in this episode: Tyme 3HarvestSwitchBot BotSetApp Your Hosts: Alan Jackson (the older Brother) is a producer of online content with Jackson Creative and survey researcher with Jackson Insight. Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) is an Associate Professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University and Product Director/Consultant at Senaptec, Inc. Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Visit www.Brothers-In-Tech.com or email info@themesh.tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Which streaming services should you be subscribing to/paying for? Well, that depends on what content is available on each…and that is constantly changing. But, the Brothers are here to give you their rundown of the current quality of each of the major streaming platforms. What shows & movies do we feel are worth your attention? What services would be worth cancelling/pausing your subscription for a month? Most importantly, which service provides quality movies like the 1987 classic “Mannequin”? You will have to watch or listen to find out. Streaming services mentioned in this episode: Amazon Prime, Apple TV+, Disney+, Hulu, Max, Netflix, Paramount+ Your Hosts: Alan Jackson (the older Brother) is a producer of online content with Jackson Creative and survey researcher with Jackson Insight. Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) is an Associate Professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University and Product Director/Consultant at Senaptec, Inc. Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Visit www.Brothers-In-Tech.com or email info@themesh.tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After an extended break and some soul-searching, the Brothers are back…and have decided to fully lean in to their passion for all things Apple. And what better way to kick off the Apple-focused version of Brothers in Tech than to discuss the new Apple updates! WWDC brought a number of hardware and software announcements that certainly have us intrigued, and we are here to give our initial reactions and thoughts of what you should be excited about. Time for an upgrade? Any game-changing features? Oh…and don’t worry, we spend plenty of time discussing the headliner, Vision Pro. Is it a game-changer? Should we be concerned if spatial computing catches on? Which Brother is already saving his pennies to be able to afford one? Buckle up, grab a drink (or two)…we have a lot to say in this one! Products mentioned in the episode: Macbook Air 15”Mac StudioMac ProMacOS SonomaiPadOS 17WatchOS 10iOS 17Vision Pro Your Hosts: Alan Jackson (the older Brother) is a producer of online content with Jackson Creative and survey researcher with Jackson Insight. Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) is an Associate Professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University and Product Director/Consultant at Senaptec, Inc. Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Visit www.Brothers-In-Tech.com or email info@themesh.tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you watched/listened last week (and, of course you did!), you will remember the 1980’s tv show-like cliffhanger that Alan left us with. He got us so excited to see the AI-generated headshots that he ordered…but alas, we were all left unsatisfied when they didn’t arrive. But now they are here…and we get a chance to see whether they are worth the $17 he paid for them, or the trainwreck that many expect (or hope?). As a bit of a spoiler…it is the prior. But don’t worry…for those who are really interested in trainwrecks, Brian also has some to share. You are going to want to watch this one to get the full experience of the magic of AI headshots! Products/Apps/Services mentioned in this episode: Motionwww.TryItOnAI.com Your Hosts: Alan Jackson (the older Brother) is a producer of online content with Jackson Creative and survey researcher with Jackson Insight. Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) is an Associate Professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University and Product Director/Consultant at Senaptec, Inc. Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Visit www.Brothers-In-Tech.com or email info@themesh.tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Thanks to all of you who wrote in and expressed how much you loved having Brian as the host last week…Bueller? Bueller? Well, Alan is back…and now all is right with the world. So, you would think that this would mean we would have a well-designed and organized show right? Not…so…fast. The Brothers decided to bring a mixed bag of topics…from maps to movies, documents to headshots. How are they all connected? No idea…but some interesting topics that you won’t want to miss. The real question is whether we get to see Alan’s AI-generated glamour shots…but you will have to watch/listen to find out! Products/Apps/Services mentioned in this episode: Google Mapswww.TryItOnAI.comwww.intellippt.comApple TV+ Your Hosts: Alan Jackson (the older Brother) is a producer of online content with Jackson Creative and survey researcher with Jackson Insight. Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) is an Associate Professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University and Product Director/Consultant at Senaptec, Inc. Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Visit www.Brothers-In-Tech.com or email info@themesh.tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In what some are calling the smoothest and most well-run episode we have ever done (and by “some”, we mean Brian), Brian takes the wheel as Alan is away. But, have no fear…we are still living up to the Brothers in Tech name with the addition of friend of the show (and brother from another mother), Jeff Hartman (Professor of Exercise Science @ Gardner-Webb University & tech enthusiast). The “Brothers” discuss Jeff’s recent entry into the world of eBikes/pedal assist, and provide some advice for those thinking of making the leap. What are the benefits of owning/using an eBike? Are they worth the money? Will people make fun of you when you ride it to the gym? You will have to watch/listen to find out. And, even though we are sure you would want to do so…no need to send emails to tell us how much you enjoying Brian hosting the show. We don’t want to hurt Alan’s feelings… Products/Apps/Services mentioned in this episode: Ariel Rider Grizzley eBikeMissive emailMotion Your Hosts: Alan Jackson (the older Brother) is a producer of online content with Jackson Creative and survey researcher with Jackson Insight. Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) is an Associate Professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University and Product Director/Consultant at Senaptec, Inc. Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Visit www.Brothers-In-Tech.com or email info@themesh.tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It is time for the March Brothers in Tech Suggestions (BiTS) episode, and well…let’s just say the Brothers were “greased up” and ready to go. What kind of show do you get when both of the Brothers consume a few drinks beforehand? Well, you will have to watch/listen to find out. Although we are still questioning whether Alan re-gifted one of his BiTS from earlier…he certainly seems to win this battle. Some solid suggestions along with some additional tips to make your digital life more efficient…and you have yourself a show you won’t want to miss. Alan’s Picks AirbuddyDownieInfiniteMac Brian’s Pics Cityway Waterproof AirTag Dog Collar HolderMotion Your Hosts: Alan Jackson (the older Brother) is a producer of online content with Jackson Creative and survey researcher with Jackson Insight. Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) is an Associate Professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University and Product Director/Consultant at Senaptec, Inc. Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Visit www.Brothers-In-Tech.com or email info@themesh.tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Anytime one of the Brothers gets a new gadget…we try to put it through its paces to see if it lives up to the billing. Well, this week Brian has the new tech…and he is able to provide his initial reviews (aka, rub it in Alan’s face). How do Apple’s Airtags compare to Tiles? How does the Samsung Galaxy S23 compare to the iPhone? Brian has thoughts…Alan has questions…and you get the benefit. All of this, AND we finish the episode in “under” an hour! Email Clients Mentioned/Discussed: TileApple AirtagsSamsung Galaxy S23Apple iPhone 14 Your Hosts: Alan Jackson (the older Brother) is a producer of online content with Jackson Creative and survey researcher with Jackson Insight. Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) is an Associate Professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University and Product Director/Consultant at Senaptec, Inc. Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Visit www.Brothers-In-Tech.com or email info@themesh.tv. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.