Mac Geek Gab — Apple Tips, Tricks, and Troubleshooting

Hey ChatGPT: Are You Sure? — Mac Geek Gab 1103 episode image [https://i0.wp.com/www.macgeekgab.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/hey-chatgpt-are-you-sure-mgg1103.jpg?fit=750%2C750&ssl=1] This week’s Mac Geek Gab with Pilot Pete, Adam Christianson, and Dave Hamilton packs in quick tips, clever hacks, and gear finds to level up your Apple life. You’ll learn how to instantly turn screenshots into PDFs, scan docs like a pro, and understand why most Macs can’t handle 20Gbps USB. Get smarter about CarPlay cables, unlock better wireless GPS performance, and discover menu bar magic with tools like uBar, Sketchybar, and Looking Glass. Don’t Get Caught missing the debates over Apple Music vs. Spotify—plus which one wins for playlists and which takes the crown for audio quality. When it comes to troubleshooting, you’ll see how to fix blank Mail previews, keep your number abroad for iMessage, and squeeze the most out of budget carriers. Round it out with negotiation strategies to lower your mobile and ISP bills, plus Wi-Fi service order tweaks and DHCP reservation tips to keep your Mac running smooth. * 00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1103 [https://mgg.fm/1103] for Monday, August 18th [https://nationaltoday.com/august-18], 2025 * August 18th: National Fajita Day [https://nationaltoday.com/national-fajita-day/] * The MGG Merch Store is Live! [https://macgeekgab.com/merch] * MGG Monthly Giveaway [https://www.macgeekgab.com/giveaway] – Default Folder * Quick Tips * 00:00:01 Pogo Kelly-QT-Turn Screenshots into a PDF in the Finder * 00:02:50 Karl-QT-CHiPs taught us some police 11-codes [https://chips-tv.com/wiki/CHP_Radio_Codes#11_Codes]! * 00:04:34 Kiwi Graham-QT-Apple devices use randomized serial numbers [https://mactracker.ca/faq.html] * 00:07:36 Mike-QT-Files.app document scanning maxes out at 24 pages * 00:10:59 CSF-Genius Scan (free version) [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/scanner-app-genius-scan/id377672876] * 00:12:10 Peg-QT-Scanning using Image Capture * 00:13:48 Craig-1101-QT-Most Macs can’t support USB 20Gbps [https://eclecticlight.co/2024/12/25/how-your-intel-mac-can-use-usb-3-2-gen-2x2-drives-at-full-speed/] * Sponsor * 00:16:37 SPONSOR: Caldera Lab [https://calderalab.com/MGG]. Guys, don’t settle for drugstore junk or steal your partner’s products—elevate your routine with skincare made for you. Head to CalderaLab.com/MGG [http://calderalab.com/MGG] and use MGG at checkout for 20% off your first order. * 00:17:59 SPONSOR: K12 [https://k12.com/MGG] can help your child start reaching their full potential in life now – and give you the support you need to get them there! Go to K12.com/MGG [https://k12.com/MGG] today to find a tuition-free K12-powered school near you and enroll now * 00:19:29 SPONSOR: BBEdit [https://www.barebones.com/products/bbedit/], the power tool for text from Bare Bones Software; now with integrated Notebooks and extended language support. * Don’t Get Caught * 00:20:50 RandyWalker-DGC-Change Out Your CarPlay Cable * Coiled cable for CarPlay [https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0CD57SXKM/macgeekgab-20] * 00:24:09 Wireless CarPlay and GPS Passthrough * CarLinkIt 5.0 Wireless CarPlay Adapter [https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0CYZQJ37J/macgeekgab-20] * Cool Stuff Found * 00:30:16 PorthosJon-CSF-uBar [https://ubarapp.com/], a Dock Enhancer * 00:32:16 Ben-CSF-Sketchybar [https://github.com/FelixKratz/SketchyBar] to customize your menubar (video instructions! [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8W06wMNZmo8]) * 00:34:30 Andrew-CSF-Looking Glass for Apple Music [https://apps.apple.com/au/app/looking-glass-music-remote/id1602004436] (or Spotify) to control Apple Music from your Mac’s Menu Bar * Some Cage Matches * A discussion of playlists, Apple Music vs. Spotify… Spotify wins * A discussion of audio quality… Apple Music wins * 00:42:44 Bob-CSF-Zip-Tie Cable Labels [https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B017TVXB5I/macgeekgab-20] * Sivet Coffee [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kopi_luwak] * 00:46:35 Ben-CSF-Access: Passwords Companion [https://access.foyerobjet.com/] * 00:47:44 CSF-Kris Black-Sidebar [https://sidebarapp.net/] is a Setapp alternative to Ubar * Sponsor * 00:49:05 SPONSOR: Wix [https://bit.ly/43XQ3JB] puts incredible website creation at your fingertips with their AI site builder. It’s fun and it’s drag-and-drop easy. Go to Wix.com [https://bit.ly/43XQ3JB] to start building your website today. Click this link https://bit.ly/43XQ3JB [https://bit.ly/43XQ3JB] to start your free trial with Wix * 00:50:14 SPONSOR: Webroot [https://www.webroot.com/mgg]. Get 50% off Webroot Total Protection or Webroot Essentials when you go Webroot.com/MGG [https://www.webroot.com/mgg]. Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared! * 00:51:40 Mark-Mail Preview isn’t showing text * Rebuild Mail Indexes with Mailbox > Rebuild * Rebuild Mail’s Envelope Index [https://c-command.com/spamsieve/help/how-can-i-rebuild-apple] * Or use OnyX [https://www.titanium-software.fr/en/onyx.html] * 00:58:46 JKDawson-How to Maintain Tel. # while abroad for iMessage / AppleID? * Tello plans to maintain your phone number [https://tello.com/buy/custom_plans] * 01:06:09 Which budget carrier makes sense to use? * Mint Mobile [https://macgeekgab.com/mintmobile] * Verizon’s Visible [https://www.visible.com/] (but you don’t get 5G) * 01:10:55 Tips for renegotiating your mobile phone plan * …and your home ISP plan, too! * 01:13:12 Grumpy Mike-1101-WiFi can be enabled but not associated * Setting service order for your Mac’s networks [https://discussions.apple.com/thread/255959596] * Settings DHCP Reservations in your router [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dCAsHdRBrag] * 01:22:33 MGG 1103 [https://mgg.fm/1103] Outtro * MGG Monthly Giveaway [https://www.macgeekgab.com/giveaway] * Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly [https://cachefly.com/] * Pilot Pete’s Aviation Podcast: So There I Was (for Aviation Enthusiasts) [http://sothereiwas.us/] * The Debut Film Podcast [https://debutfilmpodcast.com/] – Adam’s new podcast! * Dave’s Business Brain (for Entrepreneurs) [https://businessbrain.show/] and Gig Gab (for Working Musicians) [https://www.giggabpodcast.com/] Podcasts * MGG Merch is Available! [http://macgeekgab.com/merch] * Mac Geek Gab YouTube Page [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCw4n7jezVHKzJJW7MykDu7Q] * Mac Geek Gab Live Calendar [https://macgeekgab.com/calendar] * This Week’s MGG Premium Contributors [https://macgeekgab.com/premium] * MGG Apple Podcasts Reviews [https://macgeekgab.com/reviews] * feedback@macgeekgab.com [feedback@macgeekgab.com] * 224-888-GEEK [tel:224-888-GEEK] * Active MGG Sponsors and Coupon Codes List [https://www.macgeekgab.com/sponsors] * BackBeat Media Podcast Network [http://www.backbeatmedia.com/]

Mirrors are Wi-Fi's Mortal Enemy – Mac Geek Gab 1102 episode image [https://i0.wp.com/www.macgeekgab.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/mirror-wifi-mortal-enemy-mgg1102.jpg?fit=750%2C750&ssl=1] Mirrors killing your Wi-Fi? You’re not imagining it. This week on Mac Geek Gab 1102, you’ll learn how metal surfaces sabotage your signal…and what to do about it. From smarter ways to manage your Apple Watch unlocks (hint: avoid accidental calls) to clearing your iPhone’s keyboard dictionary without going full nuclear, the Quick Tips are flying fast. Want your Dock to behave on multi-monitor setups? There’s an AppleScript for that. Don’t Get Caught thinking “Until Tomorrow” actually means tomorrow…battery limits may surprise you. And if AirPlay is acting up, you might be powering off your speaker in the wrong order. Plus, you’ll discover data-blocking USB-C gadgets, secret vaults for your passwords, and whether SMB is a safe bet now that Time Machine is ditching AFP. All that, and more listener questions answered with your three favorite geeks leading the charge. * 00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1102 [https://mgg.fm/1102] for Monday, August 11th [https://nationaltoday.com/august-11], 2025 * August 11th: National Align Your Teeth Day [https://nationaltoday.com/national-align-your-teeth-day/] * MGG Monthly Giveaway [https://www.macgeekgab.com/giveaway] * 00:04:13 Your Opinions on MGG’s Titular Methodology? * PowerPress from Bluberry [https://blubrry.com/services/powerpress-plugin/] * Quick Tips * 00:00:01 Craig-QT-Mirrors are WiFi’s mortal enemy! * 00:13:04 Andrew-QT-Clear iPhone keyboard dictionary without Nuke and Pave * 00:13:49 Craig-QT-Inspector is better than Get Info * 00:16:21 Bruce-QT-1101 [https://mgg.fm/1101]-Don’t Unlock with Apple Watch to Avoid Dialing! * 00:18:58 Steve-QT-1101 [https://mgg.fm/1101]-Require FaceID for Phone app to avoid butt-dialing * Sponsors * 00:20:45 SPONSOR: Webroot [https://www.webroot.com/mgg]. Get 50% off Webroot Total Protection or Webroot Essentials when you go Webroot.com/MGG [https://www.webroot.com/mgg]. * 00:22:08 SPONSOR: Strawberry.me [https://strawberry.me/mgg]. Own Your Future. Discover what’s possible with a professional coach by your side. Visit Strawberry.me/MGG [https://strawberry.me/mgg] or use code MGG to claim your $50 credit today. * 00:23:49 SPONSOR: Eternal Storms Productivity Bundle [https://eternalstorms.at/bundle] includes ScreenFloat, Transloader, Yoink, and DeskMat. Go get it! * MOAR Quick Tips * 00:25:14 Joe-QT-1100 [https://mgg.fm/1100]-Use Pill Organizers for holding screws during a teardown * iFixit – FixMat [https://www.ifixit.com/products/fixmat] * 00:27:52 David-QT-1099 [https://mgg.fm/1099]-AppleScript to move the Dock back to primary monitor * do shell script "defaults write com.apple.dock orientation -string left; killall Dock; sleep 1; defaults write com.apple.dock orientation -string bottom; killall Dock” * Don’t Get Caught * 00:30:55 Antony-DGC-Battery Limit Changed “Until Tomorrow” doesn’t always mean “tomorrow” * 00:33:04 DGC-Apple’s Calendar.app doesn’t always send invites through Google. * 00:36:32 Scott-DGC-Turning Off a Speaker Before Disabling Airplay Can Prevent Normal Function of your Mac Audio * Cool Stuff Found * 00:39:21 Seth-CSF-Access: Private Vault for Passwords [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/access-private-vault/id6469049274] * 00:40:05 What Password Manager do you use? * 1Password [https://1password.com/] * Apple Passwords [https://support.apple.com/en-us/120758] * Bitwarden [https://bitwarden.com/] * 00:45:52 Kevin-CSF-1101 [https://mgg.fm/1101]–USB-C (and USB-A) Data Blocker [https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0CRDVDYCR/macgeekgab-20] * Sponsors * 00:51:53 SPONSOR: Coda [https://coda.io/mgg], the one Doc to rule them all. Bring your text and tables together! Get six months of the team plan for startups for FREE at Coda.io/mgg [https://coda.io/mgg]. * 00:53:21 SPONSOR: IDEO U. [https://ideou.com/mgg] Practical, relevant courses designed to seamlessly transition you from theory to practice. Get 15% off at IDEOU.com/mgg [https://ideou.com/mgg]. * Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared! * 00:54:48 Bjørn-Why won’t music play through my phone’s speaker? * 01:01:19 Craig-Apple is dropping AFP support for Time Machine Backups. Is SMB OK to use? * “Future versions of macOS will no longer support AFP network disks to Time Machine backups” * 01:04:44 David-Why Cardio Recovery Data Not syncing from Watch to Health App * 01:17:04 MGG 1102 [https://mgg.fm/1102] Outtro * MGG Monthly Giveaway [https://www.macgeekgab.com/giveaway] * Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly [https://cachefly.com/] * Pilot Pete’s Aviation Podcast: So There I Was (for Aviation Enthusiasts) [http://sothereiwas.us/] * The Debut Film Podcast [https://debutfilmpodcast.com/] – Adam’s new podcast! * Dave’s Business Brain (for Entrepreneurs) [https://businessbrain.show/] and Gig Gab (for Working Musicians) [https://www.giggabpodcast.com/] Podcasts * MGG Merch is Available! [http://macgeekgab.com/merch] * Mac Geek Gab YouTube Page [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCw4n7jezVHKzJJW7MykDu7Q] * Mac Geek Gab Live Calendar [https://macgeekgab.com/calendar] * This Week’s MGG Premium Contributors [https://macgeekgab.com/premium] * MGG Apple Podcasts Reviews [https://macgeekgab.com/reviews] * feedback@macgeekgab.com [feedback@macgeekgab.com] * 224-888-GEEK [tel:224-888-GEEK] * Active MGG Sponsors and Coupon Codes List [https://www.macgeekgab.com/sponsors] * BackBeat Media Podcast Network [http://www.backbeatmedia.com/]

Life’s Too Short to Deal With Bad Cables — Mac Geek Gab 1101 episode image [https://i0.wp.com/www.macgeekgab.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/life-bad-cables-mgg1101a.jpg?fit=750%2C750&ssl=1] You’ll pick up quick wins this week with smart Mac tips you can use right now. Color-code your USB and Thunderbolt cables so you always grab the right one, and stash them in mesh zipper pouches or a travel organizer so you’re never digging for the right connection. Add Apple Music playlists right to your Mac’s menu bar, trigger Time Machine backups with macOS 26 Shortcuts, and even have ChatGPT read answers aloud to you. Learn how to suss out the speed of your USB-C cables, avoid accidental calls, and know when a higher‑wattage charger is perfectly safe. And remember: when moving from Intel to Apple Silicon, migrate your Homebrew setup properly—Don’t Get Caught re‑installing from scratch. From troubleshooting with AI without “leading the witness” to discovering that High Sierra is still getting (at least some!) security updates, you’ll walk away sharper than before. We dig into Cool Stuff Found like Dory, a frictionless Mac app switcher, and VueScan, which resurrects old, unsupported scanners. Clean up your cloud clutter, auto‑paste from Messages into any app, and explore apps like Dialed AI to keep your motivation up. Whether you’re traveling, upgrading, or just tidying your digital life, these tips keep you efficient, organized, and ready for anything. * 00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1101 [https://mgg.fm/1101] for Monday, August 4th [https://nationaltoday.com/august-4], 2025 * August 4th: National Clouded Leopard Day [https://nationaltoday.com/international-clouded-leopard-day/] * MGG Monthly Giveaway [https://www.macgeekgab.com/giveaway] * Quick Tips * 00:00:01 Tom-QT-Color code your USB/Thunderbolt cables for easy identification * 00:04:01 Andrew-QT-Add Apple Music Playlists, Albums, and Artists to Your Mac’s Menu Bar * 00:05:45 Karl-QT-Apple Music needs to be installed to get audio out of your Lightning port * https://www.apple.com/feedback/iphone/ [https://www.apple.com/feedback/iphone/] * 00:10:36 Advice when troubleshooting with AI: Don’t lead the witness! * 00:14:43 Tom-QT-1097 [https://mgg.fm/1097]-Fix the perpetually-incrementing System name numbers * 00:17:01 Don’t Get Caught: when migrating from Intel to Apple Silicon you need to reset up all your homebrew [https://brew.sh/] stuff * Migrate Homebrew from Intel to Apple Silicon [https://medium.com/@ravi.mba.techie/a-minimalist-guide-to-migrate-homebrew-from-intel-macs-to-apple-silicon-macs-in-a-simple-5-steps-3e545576dab5] * Sponsors * 00:20:27 SPONSOR: Caldera Lab [https://calderalab.com/MGG]. Guys, don’t settle for drugstore junk or steal your partner’s products—elevate your routine with skincare made for you. Head to CalderaLab.com/MGG [http://calderalab.com/MGG] and use MGG at checkout for 20% off your first order. * 00:21:59 SPONSOR: K12 [https://k12.com/MGG] can help your child start reaching their full potential in life now – and give you the support you need to get them there! Go to K12.com/MGG [https://k12.com/MGG] today to find a tuition-free K12-powered school near you and enroll now * 00:23:40 SPONSOR: Fireflies AI [https://fireflies.ai/mgg]. Fireflies is the number one AI teammate that transcribes, summarizes, and analyzes your conversations so you can get the most out of every meeting. Get 2 months free at Fireflies.ai/mgg [https://fireflies.ai/mgg]. * MOAR Quick Tips * 00:25:14 QT-On a Mac ChatGPT will Read the answer to you * 00:26:18 Doug-QT-macOS 26’s Shortcuts Automations can be used to trigger Time Machine and more * Amphetamine * 00:29:46 macOS 26 allows auto-paste-from-Messages/Mail into any app, not just Safari * 00:31:31 Phil-1099 [https://mgg.fm/1099]-High Sierra still gets security updates * SilentKnight [https://eclecticlight.co/tag/silentknight/] * 00:34:03 Tony-1100 [https://mgg.fm/1100]-Recently Saved Photos might be tricked by migrations * Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared! * 00:35:50 Andy-How do you organize your cables and such in your backpack? * Mesh Zipper Pouches [https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B075XF7PV9/macgeekgab-20] * Travel Organizer Case [https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B06XW41VB2/macgeekgab-20] * 00:44:13 Kaz-How do I know how fast my USB-C cables are? * 00:50:57 Robert-CSF-USB-C Couplers that support 240W and Thunderbolt 4 speeds [https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0CTT1FJL6/macgeekgab-20] * Sponsors * 00:55:25 SPONSOR: Constant Contact [https://constantcontact.com/] makes marketing easier and more effective for small businesses like yours. Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at ConstantContact.com [https://constantcontact.com/] * 00:57:06 SPONSOR: Webroot [https://www.webroot.com/mgg]. Get 50% off Webroot Total Protection or Webroot Essentials when you go Webroot.com/MGG [https://www.webroot.com/mgg]. * MOAR Questions Answered * 00:58:26 Roger-Q-How to stop making inadvertent calls? * 01:03:40 Paul-Will I hurt my battery using a higher-wattage charger? * Cool Stuff Found * 01:11:03 Segev-CSF-Dory [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dory-app-switcher/id6746273626?mt=12], a zero-config, lower-friction app switcher [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRhXYyqpIk8] for the Mac * 01:13:12 Jenn-CSF-CleanMyMac’s Cloud Cleanup [https://macpaw.com/news/macpaw-introduces-cloud-cleanup] launches * 01:14:26 Richard-CSF-VueScan Scanning Software [https://www.hamrick.com/] for Out Of Date – Non supported hardware and more * 01:18:36 Marlon-CSF-Dialed [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dialed-ai-motivation/id6478706376] AI Motivation app * 01:20:10 MGG 1101 [https://mgg.fm/1101] Outtro * MGG Monthly Giveaway [https://www.macgeekgab.com/giveaway] * Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly [https://cachefly.com/] * Pilot Pete’s Aviation Podcast: So There I Was (for Aviation Enthusiasts) [http://sothereiwas.us/] * The Debut Film Podcast [https://debutfilmpodcast.com/] – Adam’s new podcast! * Dave’s Business Brain (for Entrepreneurs) [https://businessbrain.show/] and Gig Gab (for Working Musicians) [https://www.giggabpodcast.com/] Podcasts * MGG Merch is Available! [http://macgeekgab.com/merch] * Mac Geek Gab YouTube Page [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCw4n7jezVHKzJJW7MykDu7Q] * Mac Geek Gab Live Calendar [https://macgeekgab.com/calendar] * This Week’s MGG Premium Contributors [https://macgeekgab.com/premium] * MGG Apple Podcasts Reviews [https://macgeekgab.com/reviews] * feedback@macgeekgab.com [feedback@macgeekgab.com] * 224-888-GEEK [tel:224-888-GEEK] * Active MGG Sponsors and Coupon Codes List [https://www.macgeekgab.com/sponsors] * BackBeat Media Podcast Network [http://www.backbeatmedia.com/]

It’s All About Learning How To Fish — Mac Geek Gab 1100 episode image [https://i0.wp.com/www.macgeekgab.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/learning-to-fish-mgg-1100.jpg?fit=750%2C750&ssl=1] You’re diving into Mac Geek Gab 1100, where quick tips flow faster than USB-C power. Learn how dragging files into a blank Finder space automatically creates folders, and why AppleCare One’s $20/month plan might be worth a look. You’ll get hacks for AirPods Pro as earplugs, scanning docs to a thumb drive, and managing your Mac’s noisy notification overload. Curious about how to bulk scan like a pro or fix TestFlight Apple ID merge issues? Adam, Pete, and Dave have you covered. Things get deeper with listener questions—from phantom iMac reboots to the clever use of dry-erase markers when fixing hardware. You’ll also get practical ways to manage family passwords and discover why teaching someone to fish (figuratively, of course, though fish can be yummy, too!) beats fixing their tech woes every time. Cool Stuff Found includes compression tools, trackable flashlights, and ChromeOS Flex as a Mac revival trick. Don’t Get Caught missing this one—it’s packed with geeky gold. * 00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1100 [https://mgg.fm/1100] for Monday, July 28th [https://nationaltoday.com/july-28], 2025 * July 28th: National Milk Chocolate Day [https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-day/national-milk-chocolate-day-july-28] * MGG Monthly Giveaway [https://www.macgeekgab.com/giveaway] – Victrola Turntable * Quick Tips * 00:00:01 David-QT-Drag files to a blank space and Finder creates a folder for you * 00:06:05 Gary-QT-Apple released a new AppleCare One [https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/07/apple-introduces-applecare-one-streamlining-coverage-into-a-single-plan/] plan for $20/month * Apple Support App [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/apple-support/id1130498044] * 9to5 Mac’s Article about AppleCare One [https://9to5mac.com/2025/07/23/applecare-one-warranty-bundle/] * 00:14:34 Rob-1099 [https://mgg.fm/1099]-Phonetic vs. Pronunciation Contact Fields * Sponsors * 00:16:48 SPONSOR: OpenPhone [https://openphone.com/mgg] is the #1 business phone system that streamlines and scales your customer communications. Get 20% off your first 6 months at OpenPhone.com/MGG [https://openphone.com/mgg] * 00:18:17 SPONSOR: TransLoader [https://eternalstorms.at/transloader/]. Initiate downloads on your Macs, remotely from your iPhone, iPad, and other Macs. * 00:19:50 SPONSOR: OWC’s Thunderbolt 5 Dock [https://www.owc.com/solutions/thunderbolt-5-dock] is now shipping! * MOAR Quick Tips * 00:21:07 Adam-Bulk Scanning Quick Tip – Use your all-in-one printer’s direct-to-thumb drive scanning option * Using ChatGPT’s summarization [https://chatgpt.com/g/g-M3nHnGwvI-summarize-wise] feature to jog your memory for public performance and public speaking * Apple’s Files app scanning option [https://support.apple.com/guide/preview/scan-a-document-or-image-prvw28034/mac] * 00:25:00 For AirPods Pro as earplugs, AirPods > Accessibility > Loud Sound Reduction needs to be on * AirPods Magnetic Strap [https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B08F3ZYXLV/macgeekgab-20] * 00:33:41 David-TestFlight can get in the way of merging Apple accounts…and there’s a fix! * 00:37:19 Andrew-QT-Some USB-C devices need a USB-A to USB-C cable to properly charge [https://plugable.com/blogs/news/understanding-usb-c-charging-issues] * 00:43:05 Chris-QT-Turn Off Notification Sounds on Mac & iPad to Avoid Notification Overload (aka MacProCT) * Sponsors * 00:46:05 SPONSOR: Mint Mobile [https://mintmobile.com/mgg]. Cut your wireless bill to just $15 per month at MintMobile.com/MGG [https://mintmobile.com/mgg] * 00:47:37 SPONSOR: Private Internet Access VPN [https://piavpn.com/mgg] – Save 82% off your VPN service PLUS four free months with a two-year plan at PIAVPN.com/mgg [https://piavpn.com/mgg]. * Your Questions Answered and Tips Shared! * 00:48:50 Tim-My 2019 iMac intermittently reboots without warning every few days * Reset SMC on Intel Mac [https://support.apple.com/en-us/102605] * 00:56:50 QT-Remembering where screws go when removing them from a computer * Dry Erase is better than Permanent Marker * Speaking of things you might need alcohol for * 00:59:36 Managing passwords for our extended family members * It’s all about learning how to fish! * 01:07:41 Randy-WHY Thousands of Photos in “Recently Saved?” * Cool Stuff Found * 01:13:21 Andrew-CSF-Compress for videos [https://apps.apple.com/au/app/compress-videos-resize-video/id1473857051] and photos [https://apps.apple.com/au/app/compress-photos-pictures/id1449007043] on iPhone and iPad * 01:14:32 Kirschen-CSF-FlashFinder [https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0DFXPSZX8/macgeekgab-20] combo flashlight and FindMy device * 01:17:46 Scott-1099 [https://mgg.fm/1099]–ChromeOS Flex [https://chromeos.google/products/chromeos-flex/] instead of OCLP [https://dortania.github.io/OpenCore-Legacy-Patcher/] * 01:20:42 MGG 1100 [https://mgg.fm/1100] Outtro * MGG Monthly Giveaway [https://www.macgeekgab.com/giveaway] – Victrola Turntable * Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly [https://cachefly.com/] * Pilot Pete’s Aviation Podcast: So There I Was (for Aviation Enthusiasts) [http://sothereiwas.us/] * The Debut Film Podcast [https://debutfilmpodcast.com/] – Adam’s new podcast! * Dave’s Business Brain (for Entrepreneurs) [https://businessbrain.show/] and Gig Gab (for Working Musicians) [https://www.giggabpodcast.com/] Podcasts * MGG Merch is Available! [http://macgeekgab.com/merch] * Mac Geek Gab YouTube Page [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCw4n7jezVHKzJJW7MykDu7Q] * Mac Geek Gab Live Calendar [https://macgeekgab.com/calendar] * This Week’s MGG Premium Contributors [https://macgeekgab.com/premium] * MGG Apple Podcasts Reviews [https://macgeekgab.com/reviews] * feedback@macgeekgab.com [feedback@macgeekgab.com] * 224-888-GEEK [tel:224-888-GEEK] * Active MGG Sponsors and Coupon Codes List [https://www.macgeekgab.com/sponsors] * BackBeat Media Podcast Network [http://www.backbeatmedia.com/]

Stump The Geeks Live from Macstock 2025 – Mac Geek Gab 1099 episode image [https://i0.wp.com/www.macgeekgab.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/live-macstock-2025-mgg1099.jpg?fit=750%2C750&ssl=1] Recorded LIVE at Macstock 2025, this episode of Mac Geek Gab is a true “Stump The Geeks” showdown! With zero prep and a crowd full of curveballs, Dave, Pete, and Adam tackled real-time questions and Quick Tips on the fly. You’ll hear how to enable iPhone Mirroring for Mac notifications, rescue iMessages, and stabilize that wandering Dock. From Drobo debates and Apple Maps silence to VPNs with Tailscale and quirky Apple TV issues—this is geek troubleshooting in its rawest form. Desktop icons shifting, login cert errors, Siri forgetting your name—nothing was off-limits. The crowd kept the trio on their toes with Mac mysteries and clever hacks, like Doc Rock’s red/green card video editing trick. You’ll even find out what wine your favorite geeks prefer. Whether it’s legacy Macs, lost phonetics, or wild goose chases through Apple’s system status, this one’s packed with fast answers and deep dives. Don’t Get Caught unprepared—this episode is live, unscripted, and all in. * Mac Geek Gab 1099 [https://mgg.fm/1099] for Monday, July 21st [https://nationaltoday.com/july-21], 2025 * July 21 – Invite an Alien to Live with You Day [https://nationaltoday.com/invite-an-alien-to-live-with-you-day/]. Also National Junk Food Day [https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-day/national-junk-food-day-july-21] * MGG Monthly Giveaway [https://www.macgeekgab.com/giveaway] – Victrola Turntable * Stump The Geeks Live from Macstock 2025! * QT: Enable iPhone Mirroring on your Mac, and then you can get iPhone app notifications on your Mac * QT: Pete’s trip from Judy about undeleting iMessages * Rachel: Is Pete’s toga the only thing he’s wearing? * Jill, from the North Woods: Why does my dock keep moving from screen to screen? * Mike: How and when should I replace my Drobo 5D? * Troy: multiple spaces, finder never opens in the space I’m in * Allison: QT: Drobos are worth money to sell on eBay * John F. Braun: What VPN should I use to connect to * Tailscale [https://tailscale.com/] * You’re a 10.10 * Dan: it’s called Subnet Routing * Sponsors * Caldera Lab [https://calderalab.com/MGG]. Guys, don’t settle for drugstore junk or steal your partner’s products—elevate your routine with skincare made for you. Head to CalderaLab.com/MGG [http://calderalab.com/MGG] and use MGG at checkout for 20% off your first order. * K12 [https://k12.com/MGG] can help your child start reaching their full potential in life now – and give you the support you need to get them there! Go to K12.com/MGG [https://k12.com/MGG] today to find a tuition-free K12-powered school near you and enroll now * BBEdit [https://www.barebones.com/products/bbedit/], the power tool for text from Bare Bones Software; now with integrated Notebooks and extended language support. * More Stump The Geeks Live from Macstock 2025 * Lynda: Why does Apple Maps no longer speak? * Dave: Why does my Apple TV not Appear in HomeKit anymore? * Patrick: Why do my drive icons move when my Mac wakes up * Father John – CSF – Desktop Icon Manager [https://github.com/com-entonos/Desktop-Icon-Manager] will fix desktop icons in their locations * Lynda: Follow-up on Apple Maps. Sometimes the icon appears * Blair: what to do with a 2010 iMac? * OCLP: Open Core Legacy Patcher [https://dortania.github.io/OpenCore-Legacy-Patcher/] * Elementary OS [https://elementary.io/docs/installation#installation] * Sponsors * Wix [https://bit.ly/43XQ3JB] puts incredible website creation at your fingertips with their AI site builder. It’s fun and it’s drag-and-drop easy. Go to Wix.com [https://bit.ly/43XQ3JB] to start building your website today. Click this link https://bit.ly/43XQ3JB [https://bit.ly/43XQ3JB] to start your free trial with Wix * Function Health [https://www.functionhealth.com/mgg] gives you access to the kind of data most people never see—and the insights to actually take action. Visit www.functionhealth.com/MGG [https://www.functionhealth.com/mgg]. The first 1000 get a $100 credit toward their membership. * And yes…it’s Stump The Geeks live from Macstock 2025! * Messages Family Group Chat keeps getting affected by one person with new eSIMs * Brian: should I get a switch with my vDSL connection or use my AirPorts Extreme * Charles: A second follow-up to Apple Maps * Allison & Adam (and half the other people in the room): Why are my Apple devices telling me there’s a login/certificate issue with my Apple Account? * Many Wild Gooses Chase? * www.apple.com/support/systemstatus [http://www.apple.com/support/systemstatus] * Lynda: Siri lost my phonetic pronunciation of my last name. How do I get it back? * QT: Doc Rock’s green/red card (or scene!) tip for producing video. Put red up after each one that is crap, green after a good take. Makes it easy to edit. * Barry: What color wine do our three favorite geeks like? * Thanks to Brian Henson & Roger Harmon! * MGG 1099 [https://mgg.fm/1099] Outtro * MGG Monthly Giveaway [https://www.macgeekgab.com/giveaway] – Victrola Turntable * Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly [https://cachefly.com/] * MGG Merch is Available! [http://macgeekgab.com/merch] * Mac Geek Gab YouTube Page [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCw4n7jezVHKzJJW7MykDu7Q] * Mac Geek Gab Live Calendar [https://macgeekgab.com/calendar] * This Week’s MGG Premium Contributors [https://macgeekgab.com/premium] * MGG Apple Podcasts Reviews [https://macgeekgab.com/reviews] * feedback@macgeekgab.com [feedback@macgeekgab.com] * 224-888-GEEK [tel:224-888-GEEK] * Active MGG Sponsors and Coupon Codes List [https://www.macgeekgab.com/sponsors] * BackBeat Media Podcast Network [http://www.backbeatmedia.com/]