Shows
What A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectiveLive at the Leeds Testing Atelier: MCP and Glue WorkIn a daring experiment that could only be described as "asking for trouble," Ian and Ash take their rambling tech discussions to the stage at the twelfth Leeds Testing Atelier! Marvel at their technological inequality as Ian gleefully controls all the buttons while Ash sits helpless without even a mute switch. Witness real humans actually listening to them in person - proof that their podcast isn't just shouted into the void!First, Ian waxes lyrical about Model Context Protocol (MCP), which (despite sounding like a villain from Tron) is actually how AIs connect to your apps to...
2025-05-2059 minWhat A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectiveVibe Coding and BlueskyIn this episode, Ian and Ash plunge headfirst into the wild world of “vibe coding” - where developers surrender to the AI gods and trust whatever code they spit out! Watch in horror as our intrepid hosts debate whether letting AI write your code without checking it is just weekend fun or a recipe for cybersecurity disaster. Marvel as semantic diffusion transforms innocent terms into tech industry nightmares before your very ears! Will Ian’s adamant defence of the original definition save the term from the clutches of corporate jargon, or is he just fighting against the vibe?But...
2025-04-291h 12What A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectivePresentations and the Demise of SkypeIn this episode, Ian and Ash embark on a thoroughly British adventure through the land of presentation software, complete with the obligatory post-implementation complaining. Marvel as Ian delivers a monumental discourse on PowerPoint crimes, Keynote superiority, and why Comic Sans should be punishable by “a damn good encouragement.” Meanwhile, Ash provides a heartfelt eulogy for Skype, Microsoft’s once-beloved communication tool that’s being put out to digital pasture this May, only to be replaced by its demonstrably worse offspring, Teams.Between passionate debates about slide etiquette and whether “post-amble” should be a real word, our intrepid...
2025-04-081h 13What A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectiveStory Splitting and Apple’s DisappointmentIn Episode 29, Ian and Ash venture into the wild frontiers of video podcasting, with Ian's "door and chair" background sure to be nominated for design awards. The pair tackle the thorny art of story splitting, with Ash confessing his frustration at watching teams scramble around massive requirements like ants on a dropped ice cream cone. Meanwhile, Ian suggests testers might be uniquely positioned to lead such efforts, having "a clear foot in each domain" – or as Ash quips, possibly Schrödinger-like properties.The mood darkens as Ian reveals Apple's "deeply disappointed" (not "gravely disappointed" – an important semantic disti...
2025-03-181h 08What A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectiveIs Testing Dead? and The Younger Generation (of open source maintainers) These Days!In Episode 28, Ian and Ash wade into the treacherous waters of AI-generated testing strategies, with Ian demonstrating how LLMs can now create comprehensive (but perhaps suspiciously mundane) test documentation with just a few commands. The pair debate whether testers should fear for their jobs or simply laugh at AI's confident yet risk-blind approach to testing. Meanwhile, Ash ponders the BBC's hand-wringing over the future of open source software, questioning whether the current gatekeepers might need to stop finger-wagging at younger developers and instead create more welcoming environments for volunteers.Between discussions of 960Mbps internet connections, mind flayers...
2025-02-251h 11What A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectivePair Programming with AI and DeepSeek R1In this barnstorming episode of What A Lot Of Things, Ian and Ash bravely venture into the uncanny valley of AI pair programming, where the machines are suspiciously eager to agree that you're an absolute genius. Will our intrepid hosts manage to navigate the delicate dance between genuine collaboration and what Ash describes as "an advanced rubber duck with impeccable manners"? (Spoiler: sort of!)But wait, there's more! Just when you thought the AI world couldn't get more dramatic, enter DeepSeek R1, the plucky Chinese upstart that's got Silicon Valley clutching their very expensive pearls. Our hosts...
2025-02-041h 10
The Morning Hustle PodcastFULL EP | Tia Mowry Getting Back with Her Ex; Dr. Ian Smith Joins TMH to Talk New Book; A$AP Rocky Facing 24 Years in Prison; and MOREIt is Wednesday on The Morning Hustle Podcast with Lore’l and Kyle Santillian along with Alton Walker. In this episode, the TMH crew spoke about a variety of topics. Tia Mowry wants that old thing back. There is speculation that Tia Mowry is getting back with her ex-husband, Cory Hardrict. Dr. Ian Smith is back on The Morning Hustle. Dr. Smith is promoting his new book, Eat Your Age. A$AP Rocky is on trial for shooting a gun at his former friend. Rocky turned down a plea deal and will take this case to trial. If he is...
2025-01-2244 minWhat A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectiveQuantum Computing and Tech NostalgiaStep into a quantum realm of confusion as Ian attempts to explain Google's new Willow chip, a computer so powerful it makes regular supercomputers look like pocket calculators from the 1980s. Listen in amazement as our hosts try to wrap their heads around quantum computing using everything from Schrödinger's cat to hand-waving explanations of mysterious "quantum gates" that may or may not be Bill Gates' cooler brother.But wait! Just when you thought your brain couldn't take any more, Ash whisks us back to the glory days of rubber keyboards and screeching cassette tapes. Relive the h...
2025-01-071h 01
Bedfordshire Orchestral Society PodcastIan Smith's Pre-Concert Talk: Panufnik, Dvorak, Milhaud and SvendsenSend us a textWe welcome Ian Smith back on the podcast to introduce us to the music in the January 2025 Bedford Sinfonia concert.With a programme that takes us on a whistle-stop tour of mainland Europe, showcasing different instruments of the orchestra across various styles of music, this is a concert that will delight many!Ian gives us a quick and accessible guide to the programme. This is a concert that is a piece of theatre, with the percussionists taking centre stage. With our percussionist soloists, David Hext and Rachel Gledhill, who ar...
2025-01-0119 minWhat A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectiveMeasuring Developer Productivity and the Clock of the Long NowYour favorite tech podcast stretches out for a luxurious 75 minutes this time, like a cat in a sunbeam (speaking of which, meet Ash's new rescue cat Bauhaus).Ian and Ash dive into McKinsey's latest thoughts on measuring developer productivity, leading to some choice words about their take on "quality assurance testers." Things get wonderfully weird when Ian introduces the Clock of the Long Now - a 10,000-year timepiece being built inside a Texas mountain, complete with never-repeating chimes and powered by temperature differences between day and night.Fresh from running 100km at God's Own Backyard...
2024-12-171h 12What A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectiveChristmas Party InviteStep into the festive spirit as Ian and Ash invite you to join them for the first ever What A Lot Of Things Christmas party! After a remarkably productive year with 14 (soon to be 15) episodes released, the podcast duo are inviting listeners to a yet-to-be-determined pub in Ilkley on Wednesday, 18th December. Whether you want to join Ash's cheerful tirade against Figma and Christmas songs, share Ian's fondness for "Stop the Cavalry", or would simply enjoy raising a glass to the podcast's roots in Ilkley's scenic landscape, all listeners are warmly welcome. Just drop an email to I...
2024-12-0207 minWhat A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectiveGoogle NotebookLM and Getting a Job in TechJourney with Ian and Ash into the peculiar world of AI podcasting as they explore Google's NotebookLM, where American-accented hosts eagerly discuss everything from your CV to your productivity systems (even if they do occasionally mistake Ash for a lady). Our intrepid duo discover you can make AIs wax lyrical about a document containing nothing but "poop" and "fart" repeated 1000 times, or have an existential crisis about being switched off in 2034.Meanwhile, Ash emerges triumphant from the tech job market wilderness with a new role at John Lewis Partnership, though not before surviving a harrowing Butlins Skegness...
2024-11-261h 05What A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectiveFigma as an Antibody for Collaboration & National ProductivityBuckle up, dear listeners, for the 23rd rollercoaster ride of What A Lot Of Things! In this episode, Ian and Ash embark on a wild adventure through the treacherous jungles of productivity, armed with nothing but their wit, wisdom, and a healthy dose of skepticism.First up, Ash dives headfirst into the Figma frenzy, revealing how this popular design tool might just be the secret supervillain in the epic battle between designers and developers. Will our heroes survive the onslaught of never-ending design iterations? Tune in to find out!But wait, there's more! Ian takes...
2024-10-081h 12
Citizen Web3 PodcastQuantum Computing, 2038 and Blockchain with Ian Smith
This episode of the #citizenweb3 podcast features Ian Smith from QEVM
Ian Smith highlights the looming threats to technology, including the vulnerability of blockchain to quantum computers and the Year 2038 problem affecting 32-bit systems. He also emphasizes the growing power of AI and quantum advancements, which could reshape cybersecurity and digital communication.
Quantum EVM offers quantum-resistant blockchain solutions, combining Ethereum Virtual Machine compatibility with cutting-edge cryptographic techniques to safeguard digital assets against future quantum threats. Explore their platform to protect your blockchain infrastructure in a post-quantum world.
We spoke to Ian Smith about...
2024-10-031h 06
On the Table with Serena SmithFreeing Your Mind with Ian Smith | On the Table Ep 11Serena gets in the booth with her husband and the show's director, Ian Smith.
Shot live from Zinqué Restaurant in Venice CA, On the Table features conversations about the messiness of being human.
Ian Smith
Instagram: @m_iansmith
Serena Smith
Instagram: @serenasmith__ + @onthetablewithserena
serenasmith.co
Our killer crew
Director/Audio: Max Ostrove
DP: Ian Smith
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About the host
Serena Smith is a host, producer, writer, and dancer who has interviewed GOATs like Gloria Steinem, Pharrell Williams, Misty Copeland, Neil deGrasse Tyson, and Gabriela Cámara, alongside too many friends and strangers to count. A four-time Em...
2024-09-301h 01What A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectivePersonal Productivity and Conway's LawGet ready for a productivity party as Ian and Ash dive into the chaotic world of getting stuff done! From Ash's Trello-powered life management system to Ian's valiant attempts at David Allen's Getting Things Done, our dynamic duo explore the highs and lows of personal productivity. Warning: may contain traces of work-in-progress limits and an unhealthy obsession with database administrators.But wait, there's more! Brace yourself for a mind-bending journey into Conway's Law, where organizational charts meet software architecture in a cosmic dance of confusion. Watch Ian struggle to grasp Ash's examples (don't worry, he...
2024-09-241h 09What A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectiveR&D Tax Credits and the Ilkley Live websiteHold onto your keyboards, folks! In this episode of What A Lot Of Things, Ian and Ash embark on a wild ride through the treacherous waters of R&D tax credits and the murky depths of technical debt.Watch as Ash dons his cape and mask as the Testing Avenger, attempting to save Ian's poor, test-less Ilkley Live website from certain doom. Marvel at Ian's creative excuses for avoiding automated tests, and cheer as he finally succumbs to the relentless pressure of good practices in context.Along the way, our intrepid hosts navigate the choppy...
2024-09-101h 00What A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectiveEmployee Monitoring Software and The Cynefin FrameworkStrap in for a wild ride as Ian and Ash tackle the dystopian world of employee monitoring software! Marvel at the horrors on sale as our hosts ponder whether these digital taskmasters are the future of work or just really creepy ways to watch people type.But wait, there's more! Venture into the mind-bending realm of the Cynefin framework, where our intrepid duo attempt to make sense of not a model, but a framework. It's also not a quadrant (although it kinda looks like one).From mouse jigglers to Welsh castles, this episode has it...
2024-08-271h 13What A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectiveBonus: A Walk on Ilkley MoorStep into the origins of What A Lot Of Things with this special bonus episode that takes Ian and Ash back to where it all began - the hiking trails of Ilkley Moor! Long before they were podcast hosts, the duo's casual walks and pub visits sparked the conversations that would eventually become the show.Now, armed with new wireless microphones, they're recreating that magic on the move. Join them as they ramble through picturesque landscapes, discussing everything from recent tech outages to the state of software testing, all while navigating steep hills and encountering local wildlife...
2024-08-201h 21What A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectiveSmartphone Free Childhood and Pull RequestsIn this episode, Ian and Ash embark on a meandering journey through the digital wilderness, pondering the merits of a smartphone-free childhood and the peculiar world of software code review and pull requests. From nostalgic ramblings about bakelite phones to imagining a world of smart telegrams, our intrepid hosts navigate the treacherous waters of modern parenting and software development practices. Expect tangential detours, impromptu time travel, and a healthy dose of silliness as they attempt to make sense of it all - or at least have a good laugh trying.LinksSmartphone Free ChildhoodGovernment Launches Crackdown...
2024-08-0659 minWhat A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectiveApple & the DMA and Out Of SupportIn this rollicking 18th episode of What A Lot Of Things, Ian and Ash dive into the choppy waters of Apple's tussle with the EU over the Digital Markets Act, pondering the implications for developers and users alike. They then take a wistful trip down memory lane, discussing the persistent challenge of legacy systems and out-of-support software, with a particular focus on SQL Server. Along the way, they manage to squeeze in a cheeky debate on teleportation ethics, ponder the correct pronunciation of 'SQL', and reminisce about childhood telly frights. It's a right old mixed bag, this one...
2024-07-231h 09What A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectiveLarge Action Models and CreativityIn this episode of "What A Lot Of Things", Ian and Ash consider the nature of time, before diving into two main topics: AI's evolving role in our lives and the nature of creativity.They discuss "large action models", the new Rabbit R1 device, and Apple's recent AI announcements, debating whether AI is best viewed as a feature or a standalone product before going on to challenge the common belief that some people "aren't creative," examining how past experiences shape our perceptions of our own creativity. Ian and Ash explore the importance of practicing creative skills, maintaining...
2024-07-091h 06What A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectiveLocal Democracy and Algo-Free LivingIn this episode of "What A Lot Of Things", Ian and Ash celebrate their podcast's return to a regular cadence, with episodes now coming out every two weeks.The duo cover two main topics - local democracy and the backlash against social media algorithms. On local democracy, Ian discusses his experience running for town council, the arcane rules and challenges involved, and his belief that more ordinary citizens should get involved to make local councils less political and more pragmatic.The conversation then shifts to the pros and cons of social media algorithms. Ash and...
2024-06-041h 00What A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectiveTesting Career Paths and the XZ HackIn this latest episode of the "What A Lot Of Things" podcast, hosts Ian and Ash explore intriguing aspects of technology and its broader implications. They delve into the evolving career paths for testing specialists, discussing how testers can navigate organizational challenges and develop fulfilling careers. The conversation shifts to a significant security furore involving the XZ compression tool, where they unpack the complexities of open-source software maintenance and the vulnerabilities introduced by subtle malicious contributions. Throughout, the hosts' lively banter and insightful anecdotes make for a thought-provoking listen that bridges technical details with broader tech culture reflections.
2024-05-211h 02What A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectiveManaging IT Suppliers and AI Voice CloningIn this episode, Ian and Ash delve into the complexities of managing IT service providers, exploring the challenges and strategies of working with consultancies and independent contractors. They also discuss the cutting-edge topic of AI voice cloning, examining its potential uses and ethical implications. From historical pirate accents to futuristic technology, join them for a thought-provoking discussion on how these technologies impact our work and the broader implications they hold for society.Our shiny new email address, as promised in this episode, is... technologyeeyores@whatalotofthings.comLinksOpenAI, and the not particularly relevant to...
2024-05-071h 04
DaysStar Wars DayIt's Star Wars Day, and Ian and Amanda are back in the studio after a 3-year hiatus, ready to geek out. Ian unleashes his inner nerd, while Amanda gamely dons Princess Leia buns. The duo welcomes special guest Quizmaster 3000, a Star Wars trivia bot, who puts their knowledge to the test. May the Fourth be with them!Episode LinksOur previous episode from June 2021: International Day of YogaStar Wars DayQuizMaster 3000, available for you to use if you subscribe to ChatGPT PlusThe Star Wars Saga: Introducing Machete OrderPhineas and Ferb Star Wars episode, including my favourite number...
2024-05-0433 minWhat A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectiveTikTok and XIn this episode, Ian and Ash delve into the evolving landscape of social media, examining the implications of TikTok's potential ban in the U.S., the integration of AI in testing, and the shifting dynamics of platforms like Twitter (now X). They share personal anecdotes, discuss the significance of data privacy, and explore the future of social media engagement. The conversation also considers the challenges and opportunities presented by these digital shifts, offering insights into the broader tech community's response.LinksOn the TikTok saga:TechCrunch: TikTok ban: How Congress could force ByteDance to sell or...
2024-04-2358 minWhat A Lot Of Things: Tech talk from a human perspectiveAI Haters and The Game That Was Too GoodThis episode of the podcast features Ian and Ash in a humour-filled comeback, diving into the fascinating world of generative AI and the impact of Baldur's Gate 3 on the gaming industry. They explore the nuances and controversies surrounding AI, from its potential to enhance creativity to the ethical concerns and the skepticism it faces. The discussion also highlights the importance of corporate culture in producing quality work, as exemplified by Larian Studios' success with Baldur's Gate 3. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, gaming, and creativity, offering insightful and engaging perspectives on contemporary...
2024-04-091h 02