In this episode of the Bellingham Podcast, AJ Barse and Chris Powell dive into October with a discussion on the increasing role of AI, the revival of analog, and reflections on masculinity. AJ shares his experiments with Google’s Notebook LM and expresses concerns over AI’s growing influence, especially in voice replication. The duo then shifts to their love for analog, highlighted by AJ’s visit to Roldorf & Co., a Vancouver-based watchmaker, and a documentary on the Polaroid revival. Chris also reflects on societal views of masculinity, inspired by a Vice TV documentary, and they explore the appeal of authenticity in an AI-driven world.

AI and Digital Identity

AJ shares his recent tests with Google’s Notebook LM, emphasizing AI’s potential to influence media through synthetic voice replication.

https://wp.wwu.edu/ajbarse/2024/10/02/what-if-your-notes-could-think-for-you/

AI Amplifies False Memories https://www.perplexity.ai/page/ai-amplifies-false-memories-Oi2YlbzuSyqDnm4m.RoxHw

Chris and AJ discuss their concerns about AI-generated content, pondering the implications for personal data and podcasting.

Vancouver BC

AJ talks about his visit to Roldorf & Co. and recounts Jason Gallop’s journey to rebuild his watch business after a devastating fire.

Roldorf Cafe

Exploring Analog

A discussion on The Revenge of Analog documentary, with a focus on the revival of Polaroid film and the allure of analog experiences in a digital age.

Reflections on Masculinity

Chris shares insights from the Vice TV documentary series, Searching for Masculinity, sparking a conversation about evolving societal views on masculinity.

They examine the importance of authenticity and personal identity, especially in an age where AI and digital media can shape perceptions.

Documentary Recommendations for Doctober

Chris highlights the annual documentary showcase at Bellingham’s Pickford Cinema and suggests thought-provoking documentaries on themes like masculinity and analog nostalgia.

Quality Assurance Picks

Chris’s Pick: RI Music app, a free, ad-free option for Android users to stream music from YouTube without tracking.

Mr. McMahon on Netflix

Diggnation

A revival of the early tech show by Kevin Rose and Alex Albrecht, celebrating internet oddities

https://www.diggnation.show/

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@diggnation

Listener Reminders:

Tune in to KMRE 88.3 FM or stream online at kmre.org to catch the Bellingham Podcast.

Look out for the November episode with AJ and Chris’s holiday gift guide and travel stories.

In this episode of the Bellingham Podcast, AJ Barse and Chris Powell catch up after a summer hiatus. They discuss recent personal experiences, including family vacations and changes in their professional lives. AJ shares his summer adventures, including time spent on San Juan Island and managing life as a working parent. Chris recounts his solo trip to Friday Harbor and his enjoyment of tech-free moments. They also delve into topics like their evolving relationship with personal technology, privacy-focused mobile devices, and the balance between digital and analog experiences. Towards the end, they reflect on the nostalgia of collecting and playing games, particularly focusing on AJ’s experience re-entering the world of Pokémon with his son.

Topics Discussed:

Summer Recap

* AJ’s vacation to San Juan Island and family adventures

* Chris’s solo trip to Friday Harbor and tech-free relaxation

Life Updates

* AJ’s experience balancing work and family life during August

* AJ’s wife landing a job right after graduation

* Chris’s insights into the evolving personal tech landscape and privacy-focused gadgets

Tech Talk

* AJ and Chris discuss personal tech choices like Graphene OS and privacy-focused apps

* Chris’s minimalist approach to tech: ProtonMail, VPN, and offline maps

* The debate on iOS vs. Android and privacy benefits of alternative operating systems

Analog Meets Digital

* AJ’s dive back into the Pokémon trading card game with his son

* Nostalgia around collecting, comics, and trading cards

* Insights on teaching the next generation about gaming, collecting, and community

Looking Ahead

* Upcoming plans for AJ’s 100th scuba dive milestone

* Fall projects, holiday gift ideas, and the continued journey in balancing analog and digital worlds

Listener Reminder:

Tune in on KMRE 88.3 FM for the radio broadcast of the Bellingham Podcast, and stay connected for future episodes!

On this enlightening episode of the Bellingham Podcast, Chris shares his transformative experience from a recent Silence Retreat in Mission, BC. Meanwhile, AJ delves into his deep connections with silence and presence, cultivated through his adventures climbing mountains and diving in the serene waters of the Puget Sound and Salish Sea. Join us as we explore the profound impacts of quietude and mindfulness in our fast-paced lives.

EinsemdIcelandic word for solitude or alone.https://m.dict.cc/icelandic-english/einsemd.html

Westminster Abbey

Benedictine Monks in Mission, B.C. -https://westminsterabbey.ca/

Diving the kelp at Rosario, Anacortes WA.