Brothers in Tech

The MESH

Do you find yourself serving as the go-to "I.T." person in your family? Or are you someone that tends to call other family members for technical support and would rather learn things on your own? Brothers in Tech is a weekly podcast focusing on home technology and provides help to the “default family IT person”. Hosted by Alan & Brian Jackson, a new topic will be discussed each month (main episode) followed by 3 weekly “deep dive” episodes (the B-sides) with additional information. Whether you are the person who everyone calls for tech support, are the person who is doing the calling, or simply interested in technology…this podcast is for you! read less
TechnologyTechnology

Episodes

BiTS & Stories
Oct 26 2023
BiTS & Stories
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.ai: Your personal AI assistant, friend, and sounding board. Be careful…this one can be addictive.iFixIt: A great source for all things DIY tech fixes. Although, you might want to listen to the episode first before jumping in…Artifact: AI-based news aggregator app with a really nice design and interesting features (e.g., AI summaries, audio playback)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.
Introducing BYTES
Aug 31 2023
Introducing BYTES
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:Shortcuts: You have the ability to create (or download) some really useful shortcuts on your Mac and/or iOS device. Alan shows you some “quick” samples.Two-finger organization of app icons/folders? Brian shows you an easier way to organize your home screen(s).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.
Updates…and Murals?
Aug 24 2023
Updates…and Murals?
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:Beeper (free for now; invite only): Communication/messaging app that brings all (or, quite a few) of your messages into one place. Continues to be updated/improved.Arc (free; currently Mac only): A fresh new approach to web browsing, including format customization, note sharing, and more.Spark (free for basic access, $4.99/month for Premium Individual use, but now included in SetApp): Email client with a number of useful features, including a unified & filtered inbox, snooze, filtering/blocking, etc.Threads (free, but must have an Instagram account): Meta’s attempt at a replacement of Twitter/X, soon to have web access.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.
Arc & Beeper
Aug 17 2023
Arc & Beeper
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:Arc (free; currently Mac only): A fresh new approach to web browsing, including format customization, note sharing, and more.Beeper (free for now; invite only): Finally…someone has created an app that brings all (or, quite a few) of your messages into one place. 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.
HomeKit & Home Automation
Jul 20 2023
HomeKit & Home Automation
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 app: Apple’s native smart home application/systemHomebridge: Open source server application for converting non-HomeKit devices to HomeKit signalsAqara Wireless Switch & Hub: A simple button that can be programmed to operate your HomeKit scenes/devices (but, be aware of using with Alexa)Amazon AlexaGoogle HomeYour 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.
Calendar Apps
Jul 6 2023
Calendar Apps
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 Calendar: the native Apple calendar application. BusyCal ($49.99 for permanent app ownership and 18 months of upgrades, included in SetApp subscription)Fantastical ($4.75/month, if you pay for a year)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.
June 2023 BiTS
Jun 29 2023
June 2023 BiTS
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 PicksSwitchBot Hub 2 ($70): Matter enabled smart product controller/hub (e.g., Alan’s automatic curtain closureMoneyWiz ($4.99/month, also available as part of SetApp): Financial appk/software with bank sync, financial logging/budgetingBrian’s PicsKasa Smart Dimmer Switch ($59.99 for 3 on Amazon): Apple HomeKit (and other smart assistant) capable dimmable light switchBlack Shark Phone Cooler FunCooler 3 ($24.99 on Amazon): Mobile phone cooling fan for gamers/heavy processingOther products/services mentioned in this episode:Tyme 3: Project time tracker ($3.99-4.99/month)Harvest: Project time tracker that integrates with Asana (~$10.99/month)SwitchBot Bot: Make your “manual” button/light switch smart! ($29.99)SetApp: One subscription service for dozens of apps ($9.99/month)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.
Apple Updates & Vision Pro
Jun 13 2023
Apple Updates & Vision Pro
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 ProYour 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.
AI Headshots & More
Apr 20 2023
AI Headshots & More
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:Motion ($19/month for individual users): A unique service that integrates your to-do list with your calendar. Pricey, and possibly confusing/buggy cancellation (be careful on the free trial!), but a lot of potential.www.TryItOnAI.com: 100 AI-generated professional headshots for just $17.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.
Mixed Bag
Apr 13 2023
Mixed Bag
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 Maps (free): Enhanced national park maps & informationwww.TryItOnAI.com: 100 AI-generated professional headshots for just $17.www.intellippt.com: AI service for summarizing (and presenting) document content (free for limited use, $5/month for full features)Apple TV+ ($6.99/month): Apple’s streaming service finally hitting its stride?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.
eBikes
Apr 6 2023
eBikes
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 eBike ($3300): Jeff’s choice for eBike due to its dual-motor, dual-battery, and bad-ass design.Missive email ($18/month for the Productive account/features): Alan’s choice for email clientMotion ($228/year): Service for dynamically integrating your tasks into your calendarYour 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.
March 2023 BiTS
Mar 31 2023
March 2023 BiTS
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 PicksAirbuddy ($12.99 one-time purchase…but included in the SetApp subscription): Take control of your computer peripherals (e.g., AirPods).Downie ($19.99 for a one-time pass): Download YouTube videos for off-line or other usesInfiniteMac (free): Website that will allow you to emulate all of the old Mac operating systems. Brian’s PicsCityway Waterproof AirTag Dog Collar Holder ($12.98 on Amazon): Use an AirTag to keep up with your four-legged friends.Motion ($19/month for individual users): A unique service that integrates your to-do list with your calendar. Pricey…but intriguing.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.