40 episodes

This technology show originating in 2004 is hosted by Podcast Hall of Fame member Todd Cochrane, focuses on tech news, science, tech politics, mobile, tv, fcc, faa, etc. Every show is a learning experience covering all things tech so you do not have to. One of the first 100 podcasters this show is a must-listen.

Geek News Central Podcast Todd Cochrane

    • News
    • 4.2 • 138 Ratings

This technology show originating in 2004 is hosted by Podcast Hall of Fame member Todd Cochrane, focuses on tech news, science, tech politics, mobile, tv, fcc, faa, etc. Every show is a learning experience covering all things tech so you do not have to. One of the first 100 podcasters this show is a must-listen.

    Vid2Pod: Transform YouTube Playlists into a Podcast!

    Vid2Pod: Transform YouTube Playlists into a Podcast!

    Vid2Pod by Blubrry Podcasting offers an innovative solution for YouTube creators aiming to extend their content’s reach by effortlessly converting video playlists into high-quality audio podcasts. This new service by Blubrry podcasting is a boon for video-first creators, enabling them to tap into a new audience and ensure their content is accessible across all major podcast platforms. The process involves simply integrating your YouTube account, selecting a playlist for conversion, and instant distribution across platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon.

    Let me know what you think of the intro music created by app.suno.ai

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    Join the Chat @ GeekNews.Chat

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    Download the Audio Show File

    New YouTube Channel – Beyond the Office



    Show Notes Summary and Story Links:

    Todd Cochrane opens the episode of Geek News Central by introducing himself as “the tech talking man,” greeting listeners warmly. He then dives into his lead story, discussing Vid2Pod, a new service from Blubrry Podcasting that enables YouTube creators to convert video playlists into high-quality audio podcasts easily. Todd explains that the service allows video-first creators to reach new audiences by distributing their content across major podcast platforms. The integration with YouTube accounts is simple, with an automatic distribution feature that adds new videos to the podcast playlist.

    Todd transitions with a sponsorship message, inviting listeners to check out deals at GoDaddy.com and Geek News Central’s partner shows. He emphasizes GoDaddy’s long-running sponsorship and highlights deals for domains, hosting, and website builders.

    Next, Todd discusses the intro music he created using an AI tool from app.suno.ai, expressing amazement at the AI-generated music and suggesting listeners give it another listen. Moving on from personal updates, including a rib injury he recently incurred, Todd elaborates on Vid2Pod’s features and benefits further; it’s designed to assist YouTube creators in expanding their reach and offers monetization opportunities without the usual stringent platform requirements.

    Continuing with the tech news, Todd shares about AI creating new jobs, SpaceX potentially building spy satellites for the US government, and Microsoft’s latest Windows update causing blue screen errors. He also touches on Homeland Security’s use of AI for various tasks, DARPA’s lunar economy plans, the UK government’s ambition to roll out flying taxis, and Microsoft’s AI event in May.

    Switching gears, Todd mentions data breach news with Fujitsu and AT&T, the AI-powered clinical documentation for doctors, LinkedIn planning to add games and impending new AirPods models. He closes out the tech news by discussing Hertz CEO’s resignation.

    Todd concludes with housekeeping items, mentioning he’ll be attending an event in LA next week, leading to a break from podcasting. He encourages listeners to check out modern podcast apps and become insi...

    • 51 min
    SpaceX's Starship Achieves Orbital Velocity in Historic Test Flight

    SpaceX's Starship Achieves Orbital Velocity in Historic Test Flight

    In a momentous event, SpaceX’s colossal Starship, the world’s largest and most powerful rocket, achieved orbital speed for the first time today. This significant milestone occurred during its third test flight, marking a historic day for SpaceX and space exploration enthusiasts. Despite not completing its intended splashdown, the test was deemed successful as it accomplished several key objectives, advancing SpaceX’s ambitious space travel goals.

    Subscribe to the Newsletter.

    Join the Chat @ GeekNews.Chat

    Email Todd or follow him on Facebook.

    Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page.

    Download the Audio Show File

    New YouTube Channel – Beyond the Office



    Show Notes Summary and Story Links:

    In episode 1730 of the Geek News Central podcast, host Todd Cochrane discusses various topics, primarily focusing on the latest tech news.

    The episode begins with Todd celebrating SpaceX’s Starship, which reached orbital velocity for the first time on its third test flight. However, the spacecraft didn’t achieve the planned splashdown. Todd, enthusiastic about space exploration, had watched the event live.

    Todd then transitions to directly engaging with the audience, thanking them for their support and inviting them to become a Gekk News Central Insider @ geeknewscentral.com/insider He also gives a special acknowledgment to GoDaddy, the show’s primary sponsor, highlighting their continuous support since 2005. Todd details GoDaddy’s promotions and encourages listeners to utilize his promo codes for discounts on various GoDaddy services, asserting the importance of audience engagement in keeping the sponsorship alive.

    Todd announces that the podcast is streaming live on Rumble for the first time and encourages listeners to join their chat room. He seeks the audience’s feedback on the podcast, the newsletter, and the AI-generated show notes.

    The main topics covered in the podcast include discussions about TikTok and concerns over its Chinese ownership, with U.S. politicians urging for the sale or facing a ban. Todd shares his views against the government’s potential overreach and censorship. He also talks about the possible effects of AI and wearable tech on workers’ well-being and looks at the Geek News Central newsletter updates, which he mentions have been tweaked by AI for better quality.

    Todd examines the Amazon advertising products that sellers no longer carry in certain states, leading to a waste of advertising dollars and a failure in geotargeting that affected sellers like Rob Robinson. He requests audience participation in conversations surrounding headaches experienced by astronauts, a new pregnancy insight feature by the Oura ring, and Mars’ gravitational pull affecting the Earth’s ocean floor every 2.4 million years.

    In the realm of tech, Todd discusses security flaws discovered in ChatGPT plugins, Amazon’s attempt to increase workplace positivity by encouraging employees to dream about happiness, a project aiming to cut down interstellar travel time to decades, and a court ruling against a ransomware kingpin.

    • 59 min
    Airbnb's Indoor Camera Ban: A Win for Privacy

    Airbnb's Indoor Camera Ban: A Win for Privacy

    Airbnb has taken a significant step to enhance guest privacy by prohibiting indoor cameras in rental properties. The new policy, aimed at ensuring guests’ peace of mind, extends to limit the use of outdoor cameras, requiring hosts to disclose their presence and ensuring they do not invade private spaces. The company’s decision to ban indoor cameras, previously allowed in communal areas, responds to privacy concerns. This move clarifies rules around surveillance and outlines strict consequences for hosts violating these guidelines, including potential removal from the platform. Airbnb’s updated privacy measures are set to take effect on April 30, emphasizing the importance of reviewing rental listings for disclosed surveillance devices.

    Subscribe to the Newsletter.

    Join the Chat @ GeekNews.Chat

    Email Todd or follow him on Facebook.

    Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page.

    Download the Audio Show File

    New YouTube Channel – Beyond the Office



    Show Notes Summary and Story Links:

    The podcast episode hosted by Todd Cochrane starts with a discussion about Airbnb’s new policy banning indoor cameras in rental properties. Todd outlines how this policy change aims to enhance guest privacy and specifies the consequences for hosts who violate the latest guidelines. He mentions that these changes are set to take effect on April 30th and advises listeners to review rental listings for surveillance devices.

    Following the lead story, Todd talks about his primary sponsor, GoDaddy, and promotes various GoDaddy deals on his website. He encourages listeners to support the podcast by using his promo codes and becoming a GNC insider.

    Todd then delves into a discussion on the impact and future of artificial general intelligence (AGI). He predicts significant changes in product marketing and a reduced need for PR agencies, marketing firms, and UIX feedback groups in the next five years as AGI becomes more prevalent. Todd shares his experience using ChatGPT to create documentation and expresses amazement at its efficacy. He urges listeners to consider how AGI technology might change their businesses or employers.

    Todd shares a personal anecdote about spending the weekend with his family, visiting microbreweries, and attempting to have his granddaughter stay overnight.

    Next, Todd addresses Airbnb’s indoor camera policy, commending the company for improving privacy. He discusses various other topics, including NVIDIA being sued for training AI on copyrighted work, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman being reinstated to the board after being briefly removed, and a security breach at CISA using an Ivanti flaw.

    Todd talks about a new video app launch by Elon Musk on Samsung and Amazon TVs, thanking his podcast’s insiders for their support and donation. He details the benefits of becoming an insider and how listeners can contribute to the show.

    Todd then covers a broad spectrum of news stories, ranging from the discovery of authors suing AI chipmakers over training technology to the EU Commission’s use of Microsoft software breaching privacy rules. He also touches on Google Maps’ orientation accuracy improvements, Princess Kate’s photo editing scandal,

    • 49 min
    Google Under Fire for Alleged Role in Gift Card Scams

    Google Under Fire for Alleged Role in Gift Card Scams

    A federal lawsuit filed in the District of North California accuses Google of profiting from gift card fraud, particularly involving Google Play gift cards. The complaint highlights that Google has retained millions from such scams, either by commission from payments made with fraudulently obtained cards or by holding onto the funds. This comes amid FTC data showing over $433 million lost to gift card fraud from 2018 to 2021, with Google Play scams constituting a significant portion. The lawsuit criticizes Google for not sufficiently alerting customers about the potential risks and discouraging the pursuit of fund recovery. Apple recently settled a similar lawsuit concerning its App Store and iTunes gift cards.

    In 2024, we aim for a milestone of 1,500 listeners, each contributing $2.00 per month. Your support is crucial to help us achieve this goal and ensure that Geek News Central can continue delivering the content you love. Become a GNC Insider today and join our journey to make a difference. Click here to join us!

    Subscribe to the Newsletter.

    Join the Chat @ GeekNews.Chat

    Email Todd or follow him on Facebook.

    Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page.

    Download the Audio Show File

    New YouTube Channel – Beyond the Office



    Show Notes Summary and Story Links:

    In this episode of Geek News Central, host Todd Cochrane opens with a lead story about Google facing a federal lawsuit in North Carolina over allegedly profiting from gift card fraud, particularly with Google Play gift cards. According to FTC data, from 2018 to 2021, over $433 million was lost to gift card fraud, and Google retains millions from such scams. The lawsuit critiques Google for not adequately warning customers about the risks and making it difficult to recover stolen funds. A comparison is drawn to a similar case in which Apple settled regarding its App Store and iTunes gift cards.

    Todd thanks the primary sponsor, GoDaddy, and encourages listeners to become GNC insiders by contributing their time, talent, or treasure. He mentions the new podcast apps from podcastapps.com and encourages the audience to download modern podcast apps to support the value-for-value movement. There are prompts for audience interaction, including providing comments via email and social media platforms.

    The episode continues with Todd sharing updates from his busy week, including recording content, writing documentation, and meetings with his development team. He talks about a “top-secret idea” for a new product that his team has been swiftly bringing to completion, pushing him to rapidly produce marketing materials, press releases, and documentation in preparation for upcoming announcements tied to podcast movement events.

    Next, Todd delves into a variety of other news stories:

    1. ProtonVPN’s new initiative offering free VPN service during elections in countries like Turkey, Senegal, and Pakistan.

    2. SpaceX is examining extending the lifespan of its Crew Dragon spacecraft beyond the current limit of five flights.

    3. Law enforcement officials are tired of being customer service representatives for Meta as more account takeovers are r...

    • 53 min
    AI Chatbots to Redefine Search Marketing

    AI Chatbots to Redefine Search Marketing

    Gartner forecasts a significant shift in the digital marketing realm by 2026, predicting a 25% decline in traditional search engine volume due to the rising influence of AI chatbots and virtual agents. This evolution is poised to redefine marketing strategies, emphasizing the importance of generative AI in content creation and the critical need for quality and authenticity in digital content. As AI-generated content proliferates, search engines prioritize content quality, and companies must adapt by focusing on unique, valuable content. Additionally, the rise of watermarking and regulatory measures will play a crucial role in content authentication, impacting how search engines display AI-generated content.

    In 2024, we aim for a milestone of 1,500 listeners, each contributing $2.00 per month. Your support is crucial to help us achieve this goal and ensure that Geek News Central can continue delivering the content you love. Become a GNC Insider today and join our journey to make a difference. Click here to join us!

    Subscribe to the Newsletter.

    Join the Chat @ GeekNews.Chat

    Email Todd or follow him on Facebook.

    Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page.

    Download the Audio Show File

    New YouTube Channel – Beyond the Office



    Show Notes Summary and Story Links:

    In this episode of Geek News Central, hosted by Todd Cochrane, the primary focus is on the impact AI chatbots and virtual agents will have on the future of search marketing. Todd begins the episode by highlighting a Gartner forecast predicting a 25% decline in traditional search engine volume by 2026 due to AI. He discusses how the rise of AI necessitates the prioritization of content quality by search engines and how companies need to adapt to maintain visibility. He emphasizes the importance of authentic content as AI-generated content becomes more common and the role watermarking and regulations will play in authentication.

    Todd then gives a shoutout to the podcast’s primary sponsor, GoDaddy, urging listeners to support the show by taking advantage of the deals offered. He redirects listeners to the Geek News Central website for more information on partner shows and how to subscribe to the newsletter. Todd also encourages audience participation via different channels, including email, chat, and social media platforms.

    The host shares a personal update on his travel schedule and his experience with jet lag after his recent trip. He comments on website updates, discussing new live features and audience surveys, although he notes an issue with a widget that did not function as expected.

    Todd then transitions to news articles covering various tech-related topics, starting with WhatsApp gaining access to NSO Group’s Pegasus spyware source code. He further discusses cybersecurity threats, including attacks on the US defense sector and FCC employees, and a Pixel watch rumor indicating a larger size in development. He comments on an amusing attempt by a homeless man to steal a Waymo robotaxi and expresses gratitude to listeners contributing to the show.

    He briefly mentions his show’s insiders and their financial support before delving into prepara...

    • 47 min
    Apple's Public Web App Discontinuation in EU Draws Criticism

    Apple's Public Web App Discontinuation in EU Draws Criticism

    Apple’s recent decision to discontinue support for iPhone web apps in the European Union has sparked potential investigative action from the European Commission. Citing compliance with the EU’s Digital Markets Act, which mandates support for third-party browser engines, Apple plans to downgrade web apps to function similarly to bookmarks in iOS 17.4. The company attributes this shift to the impracticality of developing a new integration architecture amid other DMA demands, low user engagement, and security concerns. However, developers and advocacy groups are challenging the move, with Open Web Advocacy gathering data to assess the impact on developers and inform the European Commission’s evaluation.

    In 2024, we aim for a milestone of 1,500 listeners, each contributing $2.00 per month. Your support is crucial to help us achieve this goal and ensure that Geek News Central can continue delivering the content you love. Become a GNC Insider today and join our journey to make a difference. Click here to join us!

    Subscribe to the Newsletter.

    Join the Chat @ GeekNews.Chat

    Email Todd or follow him on Facebook.

    Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page.

    Download the Audio Show File

    New YouTube Channel – Beyond the Office



    Show Notes Summary and Story Links:

    In this episode of Geek News Central, host Todd Cochrane discusses newsworthy topics, beginning with Apple’s decision to discontinue support for Public Web Apps (PWAs) in the European Union. Todd elucidates the potential implications of this decision, especially in light of the EU’s Digital Markets Act, which mandates support for third-party browser engines—something Apple is attributing its decision to. He expresses his disapproval of the move, citing the importance of PWAs for open web infrastructure and the difficulties it presents, particularly as a gatekeeper situation where Apple is seen as putting the screws on people.

    He then talks about the Supreme Court case that will determine if social media platforms are protected under the First Amendment to exercise editorial judgment or if they are public forums that can be compelled to host speech.

    Next, Todd addresses the sideways moon landing of a private US lander that cut its mission short and acknowledges that little data could be retrieved because of the incident. He proceeds to thank the podcast’s insiders and acknowledges their contributions, emphasizing the value of their support.

    Later on, Todd talks about Google’s explanation and commitment to fixing issues with its Gemini AI image generation after it was found to produce inappropriate and contextually incorrect images. He also reports about a cyber attack on the world’s most iconic police force, the Canadian Mounties. While no significant data breach occurred, several servers and encryptions were seized during an international effort against a suspected group called LockBit.

    Apple’s rumored HomePod with a screen is another topic he touches on, speculating whether it could be too late to compete with the Echo Show. The episode continues with an overview of Dell’s move into AI PC technology a...

    • 44 min

Customer Reviews

4.2 out of 5
138 Ratings

138 Ratings

macpro3000 ,

A Great Tech Podcast with a Long History

When it comes to fun and informative tech podcasts, Geek News Central is it with venerable host Todd Cochran. I’ve been listening to Geek News Central off and on for many, many years since It first started in 2004.

Todd has an easy going personality who presents you with the latest news and opinions of all kinds of tech products including Apple Macs, iPhones, iPads; various PC platforms with their Windows OS and Linux options, smart technology, Android, phones, tablets, TV, streaming, audio and much, much more.

Each podcast if about an hour or so long. You can listen to it live on Mondays and Thursdays or just download the podcast here and at other aggregators.

Dugman1958 ,

Enjoyment

I enjoy listening to Todd’s weekly show. He give me great insight into the tech industry ❣️

Breck320 ,

Love this podcast

Todd reviews all of the latest techie news articles and adds his deep insights. His reviews help me know what’s going on in the technology world without when I miss an article or don’t have time to dig through the tech news site. Thanks for the fantastic podcast!

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