Tech Talk for Families (mp3): Technology, Toy, and Video Game News for YOUR Family

Episode 64: Video Editing and Mobile Phones

Tue, 26 May 2009 23:17:30 -0500

This time, Dale and Teresa discuss mobile phones and the family.

Also, an interview with Mike Iampietro of Adobe, discussing family video editing with Premiere Elements.

And we have a contest winner!

Feedback

Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Or e-mail us
And check out the News for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 63: Interview: Wii Music in Schools

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 09:12:52 -0500

Dale interviews Barbara Geer, President of the National Association for Music Education, about the use of Wii Music in the classroom.

Don’t forget our Contest!

Feedback

Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Or e-mail us
And check out the News for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 62: DTV Transition

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 23:31:24 -0500

Abandoning the news for a new format, Dale and Teresa return in good health with new useful information.

DTV Transition: Spend less and get more and better video content
New Contest with a huge prize package

Feedback

Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Or e-mail us
And check out the News for more news, reviews, and other content.

Next time: An interview talking about video games in school music classes

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 61: 3D TV Interview

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 06:50:21 -0600

Dale interviews David Cole, CEO of Next3D. Watching your home TV in 3D is the next big step in home theater. Find out more about it now--it’s coming sooner than you think, and you may already have the capability in your TV!

Feedback

Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480

Leave a voice message with your computer microphone

Or e-mail us

And check out the News for more news, reviews, and other content.

Next time: A regular episode when we announce the winner of our contest!

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 60: Quick Update

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 00:34:39 -0600

Dale stops by for a quick update while Teresa suffers from occupational hazards.

Topics:

Get a free game for your Xbox 360 today!
Tech Talk for Families has a new interface with more new features to come
Get free Christmas Music from Amazon
How educational should your toys be?

Check out our reviews for gift ideas

And a new contest: What should Dale get Teresa for Christmas?

Feedback

We got a voicemail from Chris in Florida

Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480

Leave a voice message with your computer microphone

Or e-mail us

And check out the News for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 59: Send in the Clowns

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 06:55:03 -0500

Dale is joined this week by a substitute host: Ringmaster Greg from Dancing with Elephants.

Tech News:

Reviews

Feedback

Redboy offered his thoughts on the creepy doll.

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And check out the News for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 58: Creepy Doll

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 08:22:54 -0500

Dale and Teresa are back without pumpkins.

Toy News

Little Mommy Real Loving Baby Cuddle and Coo Doll: Subversive?

Tech News:

MyKey helps parents control teen drivers
Apple’s New MacBooks (Note: No FireWire!)

Reviews

Feedback

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And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 57: SchoolPulse.com Interview

Sat, 13 Sep 2008 18:19:58 -0500

Today, Dale interviews John Boynton, founder & CEO of SchoolPulse.com, which allows you to get everyone from a given activity or family all on the same page with schedules and notifications. It’s a great service that integrates your life and cell phone with your kids’ schedules.

Episode 56: Best Tech Podcast

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:06:06 -0500

Dale and Teresa are back with an award-winning podcast.

Video Game News

A Madden site for girls, but we’re not sure which girls

Tech News:

Amazon takes on Netflix, but check Hulu first
Apple updates the iPod and iTunes

Reviews

Feedback

Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480

Leave a voice message with your computer microphone

Or e-mail us

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And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 55: HotChalk.com Interview

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 23:03:53 -0500

Bringing parents, teachers, and students together, HotChalk.com puts students’ assignments, teachers’ lesson plans, and lots of educational media at your fingertips. Listen to Edward Fields, founder and CEO of HotChalk, and talk to your kids’ teachers to find out whether they’ll sign up.

Episode 54: Battle of the Band Games

Sat, 23 Aug 2008 20:16:05 -0500

While slightly longer, we have a very special episode for you this time. Due to a cough, Teresa couldn’t join us, but 12-year-old Kimberly fills in, along with an all-star cast for a roundtable discussion on the new music games that came out this summer.

Games discussed:

Podcast guests:

Redboy from the Redboy Podcast (Rated PG-13)
Cindy from 101 Uses for Baby Wipes makes her podcasting debut
Tonya from Dancing with Elephants
And Kevin from Short Cummings Audio was absent but gets a quote in

Feedback

Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 53: The Cat Came Back

Mon, 04 Aug 2008 23:46:53 -0500

Dale and Teresa want to figure out how to get rid of a stray cat.

Tech News:

Video Game News

G-Board: 3rd Party Balance Board

Reviews

Feedback

Matt passes a comment to us about streaming football.
Vote for us at the Podcast Peer Awards
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 52: Elvis, Football, and the Wii

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 21:34:34 -0500

Dale and Teresa brave the heat to bring you the latest tech news for your family.

Tech News:

Video Game News

Get a free Wii from Comcast

Reviews

Feedback

Heather suggests a use for the rear view eBook reader.
Vote for us at the Podcast Peer Awards
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
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And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 51: How much tech is too much?

Sun, 27 Jul 2008 00:34:05 -0500

Dale and Teresa bring you some great new gadgets and toy news after taking the kids to camp.

Tech News:

SmartMirror: GPS in your rear view

Toy News:

R/C Star Trek Flying Toys

Video Game News

Create merchandise for your Rock Band 2 band

Reviews

Feedback

Kevin wrote in with a note about DNS Flaws and how to see whether you’re safe
Vote for us at the Podcast Peer Awards
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 50: E308 and more

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 00:38:21 -0500

After much frustration getting her iPod Touch updated with the iPhone 2.0 software, Teresa and Dale take a look at the new offerings at the Electronic Entertainment Expo 2008.

Toy News:

SeaPals, the newest plush online world for kids

Video Game News and Reviews:

Reviews

Feedback

Vote for us at the Podcast Peer Awards
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 49: Talking about us

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 01:11:18 -0500

Dale and Teresa bring you a thanks and a request.

Tech News:

Video Game News

New RPG for iPod

Reviews

We discuss our latest reviews and play a little Rock Band.

Feedback

Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
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And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Other Podcasts Mentioned:

Dancing with Elephants

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 48: Myst in your Pocket

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 23:59:37 -0500

Myst, greatest puzzle game ever, is back, this time on the DS. Dale interviews Manny Granillo, Senior Producer for MYST DS, to talk about the game then and now. He also drops some hints about a similar game coming in the future.

Episode 47: Christmas in July

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 23:14:21 -0500

Dale and Teresa take a break from jamming on Rock Band for Wii to bring you a news update.

Toy News:

Woolworth’s predicts the hot Christmas toys

Tech News:

Reviews

Feedback

Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
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And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 46: Rock Band Interview

Sat, 28 Jun 2008 00:08:33 -0500

Tracy Rosenthal-Newsom, Director of Production at Harmonix, makers of Rock Band, joins us to talk about the newly released Rock Band for Wii. Is Rock Band the ultimate family game?

Feedback

Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
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Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 45: Which browser is fastest?

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 01:00:15 -0500

After a week of no news, we went to hang out with the Dancing with Elephants crew and had a blast.

Tech News:

Reviews

Feedback

Papa Bear called in. And yes, the basement is dry!
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
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Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 44: Extreme Makeover: Cartoon Edition

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 21:08:07 -0500

Dale and Teresa wash up on shore and bring you some interesting news from the world of animation.

Toy News:

Cartoon Characters Redesigned: Strawberry Shortcake, Mickey Mouse, Angelina Ballerina, Care Bears, and more get a makeover

Tech News:

Disney streams movies free
Before you reserve your 3G iPhone:

Feedback

Matt sends his best wishes.
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And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 43: iPhone for your family?

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 23:17:44 -0500

Dale answers a weather question and a poses one for our Korean listeners.

Don’t forget our contest!

Tech News:

iPhone 3G: Is it for you?
MobileMe: Me.com replaces .Mac
Apple previews the new Mac OS X, so Dale makes a cautious prediction

New reviews at our website

Feedback

Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
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And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 42: Teresa’s back. Perfect.

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 23:12:46 -0500

Teresa’s still a bit scratchy, but she’s back, and she doesn’t let a little thing like a failing voice hold her back.

Tech News:

Feedback

John sent us a voicemail about old toy safety. Check out the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s notification page and toy recall page.
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 41: How to protect your kids from lead-painted toys

Sat, 31 May 2008 14:59:27 -0500

Just Dale is back again with a consumer action question.

Safety Information:

Lead Still Found in Toys

Tech News:

Video Game News

Quit Smoking with your Nintendo DS

Feedback

Don’t forget our contest
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 40: Phish, Phone and Photo

Tue, 27 May 2008 23:00:16 -0500

Dale’s still flying solo, and we’ve extended our contest to June 16. Go sign up again if you tried before. It works now.

Tech News:

Phishing for iTunes Users and how to avoid the scam
Get a break on your cell phone contract, plus a tip to save some money in the long run
Watch a movie with a long distance friend
Return a lost camera and a tip how to get your lost camera back

Video Game News:

Guitar Hero World Tour price and details

Reviews:

Feedback

Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
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And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 39: Interview: John Pollard of Jott.com

Fri, 23 May 2008 22:19:28 -0500

Dale got a chance to catch up with the CEO of one of his favorite Web 2.0 services, Jott.com. John Pollard talks about the great free service and how it can help your family. If you’re not using it, check it out. If you are, pick up some tips to get more use out of it!

Feedback

Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
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And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 38: Guitar Hero IV and Internet Marketing

Wed, 21 May 2008 12:05:51 -0500

Dale’s back solo again with a quick update.

Tech News:

How does the Internet affect your tech purchases?

Video Game News and Reviews:

Guitar Hero IV Details

Feedback

Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
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And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 37: Interview: Grand Theft Childhood

Fri, 16 May 2008 18:20:23 -0500

Today, Dale interviews Drs. Lawrence Kutner and Cheryl K. Olson, co-founders and directors of the Harvard Medical School Center for Mental Health and Media and co-authors of Grand Theft Childhood. Based on their study of kids and video games, most of what you’ve heard about violent video games and kids is wrong. Learn what to avoid and what to watch out for. Also, find out the relationship between video games and ADHD.

Episode 36: Undercover Shoppers

Wed, 14 May 2008 22:10:42 -0500

News

Plus, check out our latest reviews, and we have, as promised, a new contest!

Feedback

Matt calls in with his thoughts on the new format.
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
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And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 35: Wi-Fi and the Wii

Fri, 09 May 2008 00:30:31 -0500

Dale’s back with the first of our new format.

Tech News:

New Wi-Fi options for old Macs

Video Game News

WiiWare is coming May 12

Reviews

Listen for our new review format

Feedback

Heather called in with more info on Phthalates
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
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And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Other Podcasts Mentioned:

Short Cummings Audio

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 34: Special Announcement

Thu, 01 May 2008 13:43:39 -0500

We’re here. Really. And we’ll be back soon.

Meanwhile, check out NVidia: Making all video games 3D

Thanks for your patience.

Episode 33: No Foolin’ (Voicemail 206-339-6480)

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 23:05:02 -0500

After recovering from April Fools’ Day, Dale and Teresa get serious (mostly) to bring you a handful of stories for your family.

Toy News:

Tech News:

Adobe Photoshop Express: Photoshop for Free (Sort of)

Video Game News and Reviews:

Free Guitar Hero III Faceplates
ESRB Rating Widget for every platform known to man

Review

Kim Possible: Global Gemini for DS

Kimberly, age 12, takes a break from homework to give her thoughts on the most recent Kim Possible game for Nintendo DS.
New reviews at our website:

Feedback

We got an email from Matt at the Redboy Podcast (Rated PG-13)
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
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Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 32: No ringtones here! (Voicemail 206-339-6480)

Fri, 21 Mar 2008 10:03:29 -0500

Happy Easter, everyone! We have a short-but-informative episode this week with lots to celebrate, including a contest winner!

Tech News:

Interview

This time, Bob Lotter from eAgency stops by to tell us about Radar: My Mobile Watchdog, a program to help keep your kids safe with mobile phones.

Video Game News and Reviews:

Review

VTech Nitro Vision

Hannah got the Nitro Vision for Christmas and is ready to review this TV plug-and-play edutainment computer.

Feedback

Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
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And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 31: Toy Fair 2008 (Part 2) and Dancing Elephants

Tue, 04 Mar 2008 12:01:45 -0600

Time to wrap up Toy Fair, and remember that our contest ends on March 12.

Toy News:

Nickelodeon rolls out new toys

A detailed look at VTech’s new line-up
- Sit-to-Stand Alphabet Train
- Paint & Learn Art Easel
- A-Z Mouse Pad
- Touch & Teach Turtle
- Move & Crawl Ball
- Stack & Learn Elephant
- Rhyme & Discover Book
- Learn & Dance Interactive Zoo
- Play & Learn Tree House
- Spin Around Learning Town
- Pull & Learn Car Carrier
- Baby Tunes Music Player
- Nighty Light Musical Crib Projector
- Bop & Learn Guitar
- Sing & Learn Butterfly
- Soft Singing Moon
- Roly Poly Penguin
- Touch & Learn Musical Bee
- Sing & Learn Musical Mic
- Winnie the Pooh Sit ’n Play Learning Center
- Winnie the Pooh Play ’n Learn Phone
- Winnie the Pooh Play ’n Learn Spinning Top
- My Friends Tigger & Pooh Explore ’n Discover Phone
- Disney Princesses Magic Wand Book
- Disney Princesses Carriage Laptop
- Little Einsteins Learn & Discover Globe
- Little Einsteins Blast-Off Learning Laptop
- Thomas & Friends Fridge Fun
- Wall•E Learning Laptop
- Cars Lightning McQueen Learning Laptop
- Create-A-Story
- KidiArt Studio
- KidiJamz Studio
- Kidizoom Camera update
- KidiDoodle
- V.Smile PC Pal
- V.Smile Cyber Pocket
- V-Motion
- Planetvtech.com
- Cyber Spy Notebook
- Cyber Rocket
Elmo Knows Your Name...and threatens your life!

Tech News:

Video Game News and Reviews:

Sims Online is now EA-Land and Free

Review

Cosmic Family for Wii

Hannah shares her thoughts on a Wii game for 4-8-year-olds. Is it out of this world? Listen and find out!
New reviews at our website:

Feedback

Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Other Podcasts Mentioned:

Dancing with Elephants

Next time:

An interview helping you protect your kids on their cell phones.
The latest tech, toy, and video game news, as always

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 30: Toy Fair 2008 (Part 1) (Call Us! 206-339-6480)

Wed, 20 Feb 2008 02:10:27 -0600

In a slightly different format, Dale and Teresa take a virtual tour of Toy Fair 2008, bringing you news of new toys and exclusive information about the hot toy this Christmas.

Toy News:

New from Mattel:
- Hot Wheels® Turbo Driver™ Controller
- U.B. Funkeys™ Figures
- Kid-Tough® Portable DVD Player
- Dora Prance & Fly Pegasus™
- Handy Manny™ 2-in-1 Transforming Tool Truck
- Laugh & Learn™ Smart Bounce & Spin Pony™
- Computer Cool School™
- Little Mommy™ Real Loving Baby™ Gotta Go™ Doll
- Elmo Live
- D-REX™ Dinosaur
- Spike the Ultra Dinosaur
- Power Wheels™ A.T. Rex™
- Tyco® R/C Turbo Pro Wheelie Cycle™
- Hot Wheels® Speed Racer Battle Morph™ Mach 6
- Kung Fu Panda™ Kung Fu Kickin’™ Po
- Batman: The Dark Knight™ Wayne Tech™ Mega Cape™ Accessory
- Go, Diego, Go!™ Animal Rescue Railway
- Barbie® Magic Wings Mariposa™ Doll
- Barbie® iDesign™ Ultimate Stylist™ CD-ROM Game
- Hot Wheels® Trick Tracks Assortment
- Color Me Gemz™
- Color Me Gemz™ Jewelry Box

New from Bandai
- Power Rangers Mega Mission Helmet
- Ben10: Alien Force Omnitrix
- Tamagotchi Connection V5 “Familitchi”
- Dragon Ball Z and Digimon toys
- Blue Dragon toys

New from Hasbro
- Incredible Hulk Smash Hands and "Hulkey Pokey Hulk" for the little ones
- Indiana Jones Sound FX Whip
- Iron Man N.R.F. 425 Blaster
- Remote Control Wallcrawler Spider-Man
- Baby Alive Learns to Potty
- Furreal Friends Biscuit My Lovin’ Pup
- Littlest Pet Shop VIP’s
- My Little Pony Ponyville Sweet Sundae Amusement Park
- Tooth Tunes Junior and Turbo Tooth Tunes Toothbrushes
- Playskool Dance Cam
- Glide 2 Ride Bike
- Helmet Heroes
- Kota the Triceratops
- I-Dog Dance, I-Dog Clip, and I-Dog Soft
- Lazer Tag 2-in-1 System
- Nerf N-Strike Vulcan EBF-25
- A new Clue
- Cranium Family Edition
- Gleemax
- Monopoly Here and Now: The World Edition
- Noodleboro
- Partini
- Scrabble Diamond Anniversary Edition
- Trivial Pursuit Digital Choice
Innovation First and Vex Robotics

Jakks Pacific
- EyeClops™ Night Vision and Bionic Cam™
- Ulti-Motion™ Disney and Swing Zone
- G2: Game Girl™ TV Games
- Neopets
- Discovery Kids Smart Animals™ and Discovery Kids Smart Animal Scanopedia

Interview

This week, Mike Brezette from Revelle joins us to talk about toy models, how they’ve evolved and continue to evolve to meet the needs of today’s family, as well as the educational value behind these great toys. Mike discusses how kids are bringing new life to classic kits. Also catch another interview with Mike discussing electronics and robotics.

Review

The Singing Bee for DVD

Dale and Teresa take a look at Imagination’s interactive DVD game based on the popular game show with Joey Fatone.

Feedback

Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Next time:

More news from Toy Fair 2008!
The latest tech, toy, and video game news, as always

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 29: Piano Hero (Call Us: 206-339-6480)

Fri, 08 Feb 2008 01:39:13 -0600

Dale and Teresa crawl out of the snow to bring you the results of the Treasure Hunt Contest!

Toy News:

LeapFrog Plays Tag, including exclusive insights as to LeapFrog’s direction. You heard it here first!

Tech News:

Interview

This week, we have Paul Weisman, Vice-President of Music Development and of the Music Wizard Academy to tell us about Music Wizard, a cross between Guitar Hero/Rock Band and actual musical instrument lessons. Paul also describes some upcoming products, Band Wizard, Composer Wizard, and WizardTunes that sound very cool.

Video Game News and Reviews:

LeapFrog announces Leapster2 and takes on the DS with the Didj: We have more than just the press release (More exclusive information!)
Guitar Hero Pedal for PS2
Rock Band for Wii official, but don’t buy the Mic

Review

Piano Wizard for Mac and PC

A cross between Guitar Hero and piano lessons, is Piano Wizard as great as it sounds?
New reviews at our website:

Feedback

John calls in with a question about downloadable software and the MacBook Air
Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 28: MacWorld Expo Recap with John C. Dvorak (Voicemail 206-339-6480)

Fri, 25 Jan 2008 00:14:04 -0600

This is our annual Macintosh episode, covering the announcements at MacWorld Expo and more, plus an interview with an expert who was there.

Tech News:

Interview

John C. Dvorak joins us to give his impressions of the MacWorld expo and Apple’s announcements, as well as some insights into the DVD war.

Video Game News and Reviews:

Review

Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends for Leapster

Hannah and new voice Dani join us for a look at the Leapster approach to this popular Cartoon Network show.
New reviews at our website:

Feedback

Contest entries are rolling in, and the clock is ticking on our contest!
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Other Podcasts Mentioned:

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 27: CES 2008 Highlights (Voicemail 206-339-6480)

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 22:48:17 -0600

Dale and Teresa didn’t make it to CES this year, but we’ve gleaned the highlights from those who did. We also have a correction on a story from last week.

Toy News:

Barbie iDesign (Because if it’s iSomething, it must be good!)

Tech News:

iRiver Spinn: back to analog
Green Plug: By your chargers combined, I am Captain Planet! (or something like that.)
Blu-Ray discs with PSP version of movie
Texas Instruments DLP DualView: Play 2-player without splitting the screen
Alienware curved display

Video Game News and Reviews:

Review

Pet Pals for Leapster

Hannah takes a look at Leapfrog’s approach to Nintendogs and finds it to be better for the younger pups in your house.
New reviews at our website:

Feedback

Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Next time:

MacWorld Recap
The latest tech, toy, and video game news, as always

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 26: Scavenger Hunt! (Voicemail: 206-339-6480)

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 22:09:54 -0600

Happy New Year, everyone! We’re back with a big announcement and looking forward to a very busy month. Listen closely for the contest code word.

Recalls and Safety Information:

Tech News:

Video Game News and Reviews:

Review

The Game of Life: Twists & Turns

This week, we take a look at a new twist on the classic board game with the white plastic houses.
New reviews at our website:

Merkury Portable Alarm Clock for iPod

Feedback

What does Microsoft have in store? Matt calls in with his thoughts on Microsoft Surface
Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Other Podcasts Mentioned:

Next time:

CES Coverage
The latest tech, toy, and video game news, as always

Music by Kevin McLeod

Special Edition 2: A Pickle for Christmas

Sat, 22 Dec 2007 01:18:43 -0600

Since we’re taking Christmas off, we’d like to share a timeless Christmas story with you. See if you can pick out Dale’s voice.

This is the third annual Podcast Pickle community skit. The entire production is written and performed every year entirely by members of the Podcast Pickle community. If you are a big podcast listener, you may recognize several celebrity voices.

If you liked this, you may also be interested in hearing the two previous Pickle productions:

* 2005's A Podcast Christmas Carol
* 2006's The Update Before Christmas

Merry Christmas from the Tech Talk for Families family. We’ll still be updating the website during the rest of 2007 with more news, reviews, and blogs, and we’ll be back in January with a very special announcement.

Episode 25: How you gonna call? (Voicemail: 206-339-6480)

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 01:09:16 -0600

Dale and Teresa bring you the pre-Christmas episode that ended up being much about mobile phones--we’re not sure why. We also have an interview again! And for the first time in months, no lead paint stories!

Toy News:

MoPods: Monsters and fireworks and cellphones, oh my!

Tech News:

Interview

This week, we talk to Stacy DeBroff, parenting expert, bestselling author, and founder of MomCentral.com. She talks about keeping up with your kids’ technology and the amazing world they’re growing up in.
The phone line had some static, and we filtered most of it, but parts of it suffered lower audio quality. We apologize.

Video Game News and Reviews:

Rock Band vs. Guitar Hero: Peripherals passing in the night
Voice Chat coming for Wii?
Wii Chess

Reviews

No big review this week, just a bunch of little ones.
New reviews at our website:

Feedback

Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Next time:

A Special Christmas Treat

Christmas music by Nu Beat

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 24: Mr. Potato Head vs. Gloworm: The Movie

Tue, 11 Dec 2007 02:39:03 -0600

Got all your Christmas shopping done? Dale will soon. Really.

Recalls and Safety Information:

Toy News:

Toy movies coming from Hasbro What brands would you like to see turned into movies?
Ty Girlz not so Bratzy
Online games for kids can attack your wallet, so watch what gifts you give

Tech News:

3D Processors to speed up computeers by 10x in next 2 years

Video Game News and Reviews:

Nyko’s Wireless Nunchuck for Wii
Guitar Hero III for Wii: Replacement discs and downloadable content
Sony direct-to-PSP Store?

Review

Save the Dinos for PC

This week, we take a look at Save the Dinos, a shooting gallery game for Windows. (Demo Available)
New reviews at our website:

Feedback

Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Other Podcasts Mentioned:

101 Uses for Baby Wipes

Music by Kevin McLeod

Closing Christmas carol by The Alice Project

Episode 23: Is the iPhone Threatened? (Voicemail: 206-339-6480)

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 00:48:38 -0600

We hope you all had a happy Thanksgiving. We did, and a fun Black Friday. Stay until the end for some festive music!

Recalls and Safety Information:

Toy News:

Girls want Boys’ Toys

Tech News:

Your MacBook Drive may have a fatal flaw
Verizon to open its network to any phone in 2008
Google to offer iDisk Equivalent?
Qingbar GP300 Wireless Video Glasses
Zoho Writer available offline using Google Gears
Audio Input with iPod Touch
Hello Kitty electronic toilet paper dispenser and Bluetooth Headsets

Video Game News and Reviews:

Xbox Live Social Networking
New Guitar Hero III Controllers Coming in Early 2008
Get Ready for Wii Lightsaber action with the Wii Light Sword or the Wii Light Saber

Reviews

No big review this week, but a few recaps of the full reviews on our website:

Feedback

Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod
Closing music by Podsafe for Peace.

Episode 22: Best Robo-Friends (Voicemail: 206-339-6480)

Wed, 21 Nov 2007 00:29:14 -0600

This week, Dale and Teresa prepare for Black Friday with a bunch of toy ideas and a bunch of extras at our website.

Toy News:

Tech News:

Video Game News and Reviews:

Wii-Shaft, an arcade stick for Virtual Console games
Xbox Originals: Microsoft’s Virtual Console
Ghostbusters 3: The Video Game

Review

Creature Create for Leapster

Hannah’s back with a review of one of her favorite Leapster titles, Creature Create.
Also check out our reviews of:

Feedback

Wendy wrote in to ask about cameras. Check back for more info, or get the Dashboard Widget to find out as soon as it’s posted!
Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 21: Sounds Good (Voicemail: 206-339-6480)

Sat, 10 Nov 2007 21:40:04 -0600

We’re back with improved audio and more news than you can shake a Wii-mote at, and thanks to some user feedback, we got the audio fixed, finally!

Recalls and Safety Information:

Aqua Dots Recall

Toy News:

T.M.X. Elmo Extra Special Edition: Because there wasn’t enough demand already

Tech News:

Video Game News and Reviews:

Broadcast your Mii with a new Wii game: Check Mii Out

Reviews

Batman: Strength in Numbers for Leapster

Hannah returns with a review of Batman: Strength in Numbers for Leapster. This one focuses more on the arcade elements than most other Leapster games.
Also, find reviews of more products at our website:

Feedback

Wendy wants to know about the Slingbox
John from the Jesus Geek Podcast called in to help us with our audio
Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for more news, reviews, and other content.

Other Podcasts Mentioned:

The guys at Dancing with Elephants share their Christmas wish. What’s yours?

Next time:

The latest tech, toy, and video game news, as always

Music by Kevin McLeod

Episode 20: Back from the Bay (Voicemail: 206-339-6480)

Tue, 30 Oct 2007 21:31:38 -0500

LeapFrog flew us out to San Francisco last week to show us around. While much of what we learned will have to wait, you can watch our website for more information, articles, reviews, and blogs.

Toy News:

Tech News:

Sandisk Fanfair and TakeTV: think iTunes store and AppleTV
Comcast and Verizon caught cheating consumer internet
Black Friday Beginning on Thanksgiving, but Wal-mart sues! Someone tell us why!
TiVo Series 3 and HD gets a big upgrade
Pink Barbie iPod Dock

Interview

This week, Dale Cripps from HDTV Magazine joins us to tell us all about HDTV. If you’re looking to buy an HDTV this year--or ever, you should listen to this comprehensive buying guide. Know what to look for and how to find what’s right for you.

Video Game News and Reviews:

Review

Super Paper Mario

The spiritual Wii successor to Super Mario Bros. 3 will not leave you flat. Dale and Teresa give you the skinny on this mostly 2-D platformer.

Feedback

Charles from Mostly News called in to disagree with Matt from PVRBlog
Redboy called in to say he wouldn’t buy an iPod based on color...but he did
Patrick in New Hampshire calls in with a request...how do you like it now?
Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for stories that didn’t make the cut.

Episode 19: Ahead of our Time (Voicemail: 206-339-6480)

Sat, 20 Oct 2007 15:18:03 -0500

This week, Teresa contemplates her new power cord. Maybe she should’ve waited. Also, we’re updating our website. Check out the new look, and keep checking back to watch it evolve!

Toy News:

Toys ’R’ Us lists five toy buying trends this year

Tech News:

Interview

This week, we talk to Matthew Haughey from PVRBlog. Matt talks about how a PVR/DVR/Tivo can benefit your family.

Video Game News and Reviews:

Review

Cars Supercharged for Leapster

This week, Hannah takes Cars Supercharged for a spin. She likes the tractor tipping.

Feedback

Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for stories that didn’t make the cut.

Next week:

An interview with Dale Cripps from HDTV Magazine
The latest tech, toy, and video game news, as always

Episode 18: Quick Apple Turnover (Voicemail: 206-339-6480)

Wed, 10 Oct 2007 01:22:17 -0500

This week, Teresa enjoys an end to a laptop fire hazard...and fast! And no, we’re not going in-depth on the iBrick.

Recalls and Safety Information:

Toy News:

Holiday Toy Shortages Expected, but Toy Sales Begin Early, so shop early
FAO Schwartz Top Dozen Toys: These will probably disappear from the shelves first
New Dr. Seuss Games from I Can Do That Games

Tech News:

Burn movie downloads to DVD
New Zunes, now with Squircles! Check out iLike for an iTunes version of the Zune Social.
Firefly Mobile and Gameloft to release games for flyphone

Interview

This week, we welcome Shauna Maggs from Groundspeak in the long-awaited discussion on geocaching. It’s a gadget-related activity that involves the whole family, fresh air, and exercise!

Video Game News and Reviews:

Free Nintendo Wii ’Jackets’ to protect your Wiimotes

Review

Ratatouille for Wii

This week, we take a look at another Ratatouille game, this time for the Wii. Anyone can cook, but can anyone play this game?

Feedback

Redboy at The Redboy Podcast left a voicemail
Charles from Desperate Husbands and Mostly News left a voicemail
Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for stories that didn’t make the cut.

Other Podcasts Mentioned:

Thanks to Game Addict Hotline for playing our promo.

Next week:

Hannah returns with a review of Cars: Supercharged for the Leapster
The latest tech, toy, and video game news, as always

Episode 17: DIY, iTMS, and USB (Call us! 206-339-6480)

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 06:19:35 -0500

Dale and Teresa have a fixed dishwasher, so that’s one less recalled item in the house.

Recalls and Safety Information:

Toy News:

Tech News:

Interview

This week, we welcome Mark Frauenfelder from Make Magazine, a totally different DIY magazine. It’s all about making fun things! Also, check out Craft Magazine, their sister publication where Mark’s wife works!

Video Game News and Reviews:

Sony PS3’s Home delayed

Review

Ratatouille for Leapster

Hannah joins us for a look at Remy, Linguini, and Chef Gusteau in an educational game based on the Disney/Pixar movie.

Feedback

We got a voicemail from Matt of the Pizza Go Here podcast.
Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for stories that didn’t make the cut.

Other Podcasts Mentioned:

Episode 16: IPTV and Pink Stuff (Call Us! 206-339-6480)

Sat, 15 Sep 2007 01:24:57 -0500

Recovering from a weekend of birthday parties, Dale and Teresa bring a bunch of iTunes-related stories, some gift ideas, and a great interview.

Recalls and Safety Information:

China Ending Lead Paint on Toys
Disney and Toys ’R’ Us run extra toy testing

Toy News:

Watch for Skee-Ball from Hasbro
Study: The Importance of Play
Creation Station toy camcorder and green screen

Tech News:

iTunes Music Store to offer Video Rentals?
Apple to offer 99 cent TV Shows?
Apple responds to iPhone Unlock
SanDisk Sansa View announced
Music Industry offers ’Ringles’
Stupid Female Syndrome strikes again! How do you ladies feel about pink gadgets?
Sony Rolly MP3 Player
Amazon ’Kindle’ eBook Reader
Polk Audio Introduces I-Sonic Entertainment System 2

Interview

This week, we have the Brit TWiT, Wil Harris. As founder of Channel Flip, Wil has some insight into IPTV (Internet Television), its present and its future.

Video Game News and Reviews:

Wii Zapper concrete details
Jakks Pacific announces game based on ’Are You Smarter than a Fifth Grader?’
Take Two Interactive Announces 2K Play for Dora and Diego Games

Review

Toon-Doku for Nintendo DS

Teresa schools Dale at yet another Sudoku game. How does this one add up against the others?

Feedback

Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!

Episode 15: Portable Media and Jumping Monkeys (Call Us! 206-339-6480)

Sat, 08 Sep 2007 08:24:06 -0500

September will bring an odd schedule, but we should still get at least three episodes out this month with some great guests! And for some reason, most of the tech news is about portable media this week. Welcome to the digital.

Recalls and Safety Information:

Thanks to more internal quality control testing, Mattel announces more recalls. Do your kids have any toys left?

Tech News:

Nokia announces Ovi Music Store

Interview

This week, we’re thrilled to have a fellow tech podcasting parent, TechTV veteran Megan Morrone from the Jumping Monkeys blog and podcast. And Megan, I found your old blog. Note: This interview was recorded August 28, 2007, so some of the comments need to be heard with that in mind (especially the iPod discussion). You can also hear the full uncut interview in the extras section of our site.

Video Game News and Reviews:

Review

Meteos: Disney Magic for DS

Teresa the Puzzle Gamer challenges Dale to some DS fun.

Feedback

Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for stories that didn’t make the cut as well as the full uncut interview with Megan.

Next week:

An interview with the British TWiT, Wil Harris, about IPTV (Internet Television)!
The latest tech, toy, and video game news, as always

Episode 14: Blame the Guinea Pigs

Wed, 29 Aug 2007 00:47:58 -0500

We’re a bit late this week, but likely better late than never. We had cavy problems.

Tech News:

Toy News:

Video Game News and Reviews:

Cranium Game coming to the Wii

Review

Pinball Hall of Fame: The Gottlieb Collection

We didn’t get a chance to play Mario Party as we’d hoped, so Dale has a review of a collection of arcade games dating as far back as 1957: Pinball Hall of Fame: The Gottlieb Collection for the PS2. Get your retro on!

Feedback

We got feedback from Redboy at the Redboy Podcast
Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!

Next week:

An interview with Megan Morrone from Jumping Monkeys.
The latest tech, toy, and video game news, as always

Episode 13: Happy Birthday, CD!

Sun, 19 Aug 2007 21:59:55 -0500

This week, Dale and Teresa celebrate the birthday of the CD, lament living in the stone age, and enjoy High School Musical 2 (DS and PS2 games out now, Wii game not until November). Interviews will henceforth not be guaranteed.

Recalls and Safety Information:

Toy News:

Tech News:

Video Game News and Reviews:

In2Games offers motion detection for PS2
A New Crimson and Black DS Lite (Or "DS Dark", as the case may be)
Portable Screen for PS3

Review

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix for Nintendo DS

Dale and Kimberly throw around some gobstones, mix some potions, and review the most faithful game adaptation of a Harry Potter movie to date.

Feedback

Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!

Next week:

A Review of Mario Party 8 for Wii
The latest tech, toy, and video game news, as always

Episode 12: Welcome Back, Teresa (Feedback: 206-339-6480)

Wed, 08 Aug 2007 00:08:15 -0500

Teresa is finally back and joins Dale after getting back into the house.

Recalls and Safety Information:

Toy News:

Bright Starts Baby’s PlayPlace

Tech News:

Interview

No interview this week due to schedule conflicts.

Video Game News and Reviews:

Review

ClickStart My First Computer

After Dale’s ambivalent announcement about this new device from LeapFrog, they sent us one to try out. Hannah put it through its paces and offers her take on the device.
We will also have reviews of cartridges in our Extras section in the coming weeks.

Feedback

Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!

Next week:

A Review of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix for the DS
The latest tech, toy, and video game news, as always

Episode 11: Mac to the Future (Voicemail: 206-339-6480)

Mon, 30 Jul 2007 01:16:35 -0500

As the Drum Corps season comes to an end, Hannah joins Dale for one last show. Check out the Extras the full uncut interview.
There’s a bit of a hum in the audio for much of the episode. We apologize for that.

Recalls and Safety Information:

Bling Pacifiers
Sky Rangers Park Flyer Radio Control Airplanes
Easy-Bake Oven
Recalled baby items on store shelves
iPhone Security Vulnerability
How well can you spot a web scam? (Dale got a 9 out of 10) Post your score by clicking "Add a Comment"!

Toy News:

Tech News:

Singer Futura: The USB Sewing Machine
Zune 2.0 Announced

Interview

This week, Jason Snell, Editorial Director of MacWorld Magazine joins us to discuss the iPhone, iPod, and Macintosh. Jason shares his insights on the iPhone and iPod, discusses his favorite Leopard features, and his predictions Apple’s future products. Get the expanded interview with additional insights and over 10 minutes of additional interview.

Video Game News and Reviews:

Lego Indiana Jones

Review

Sonic And The Secret Rings for Wii

Dale tries out a the new Wii approach to Sonic the Hedgehog.

Feedback

Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for stories that didn’t make the cut, including the full uncut interview.

Next week:

An interview with Shauna Maggs from Groundspeak to discuss Geocaching. (Yeah, Greg, we got your challenge!)
A Review of Leapfrog’s ClickStart My First Computer
The latest tech, toy, and video game news, as always

Episode 10: Drive Safely (Voicemail: 206-339-6480)

Tue, 17 Jul 2007 08:13:08 -0500

Teresa’s back from the East Coast but suffering from what we can only call "bus lag." Also, a bunch of stories just didn’t make it for lack of time. Find the "deleted scenes" in our Extras section at techtalkforfamilies.com/extras.
Other announcements:

Full Disclosure
Win a Free iPod (Complete Rules)

Recalls and Safety Information:

Do your children’s toys contain phthalates?

Tech News:

Toy News:

Interview

This week, we have an informative and funny interview with Drew Janssen, President and CEO of Perhejanssen, Inc. Drew is one of only a handful of drive recovery experts in the country and gives us lots of insight into how to avoid having to call him! Drew has a great sense of humor, so while most discussions about hard drive backup and recover would seem dry, Drew will keep you smiling and learning at the same time.

Video Game News and Reviews:

With E3 last week, we have a ton of news, so we’ll be running through it pretty quickly. We sort through it to give you the family-friendly gems.

Review

Shrek Smash n’ Crash Racing for DS

11-year-old Kimberly takes a break from packing to review Shrek’s Kart racer for the Nintendo DS.

Feedback

Feedback from Jack
Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!
And check out the Extras for stories that didn’t make the cut, including the full uncut interview.

Next week:

An interview with Jason Snell of MacWorld Magazine
A Review of Sonic and the Secret Rings for the Wii
The latest tech, toy, and video game news, as always

Episode 9: Fighting Back for Kids (Feedback: 206-339-6480)

Sun, 01 Jul 2007 21:05:29 -0500

This week, Hannah sits in for Teresa again.

Recalls and Safety Information:

Tech News:

Toy News:

The Latest in Air Guitar Technology
- Power Tour Guitar from Tiger Electronics: No strings!
- Takara Tomy Corp’s Air Guitar Pro: No Guitar!
MP3 Player for Infants
R/C Horse Racing

Interview

This week, Marilyn Wilson from Nurturing Results joined us to talk about what companies do to make their products more family-friendly and kid-friendly. Did you know they hire consultants to make that happen? Marilyn is one of those consultants. Unfortunately, the recording didn’t take properly, so I’ll have to catch her another time. Sorry, Marilyn!

Video Game News and Reviews:

Review

Excite Truck

This week, we have a review of Excite Truck for the Wii.

Closing information and Feedback

No show next week
Dale did a presentation at the Tech Podcast Roundtable

Feedback

Feedback from Bill at the GeeksOn forums
Feedback from Redboy
Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us
Digg Us!

Episode 8: Mini-Cohost (Voicemail: 206-339-6480)

Sun, 24 Jun 2007 17:19:04 -0500

Teresa is away again, but 5-year-old Hannah fills in for her.

Recalls and Safety Information:

Necklace Recall

Tech News:

Toy News:

Interview

Due to scheduling conflicts, we have no interview this week. Next week for sure.

Video Game News and Reviews:

Review

Animal Genius for Leapster

While the DS version was just announced, Hannah’s an old pro at Animal Genius for the Leapster.

Closing information and Feedback

Feedback

The anonymous feedbacker revealed: Dan from the Love Long and Prosper podcast
New feedback from John at the Jesus Geek podcast
Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us

Episode 7: Flying Solo with the Dr. Floyd Crew (Feedback Line: 206-339-6480)

Sun, 17 Jun 2007 01:19:33 -0500

This week, and for much of the summer, Teresa is away, so Dale is "Mr. Mom," but we have an awesome interview and lots of cool announcements with more news to come in the coming weeks! All that, and we improved our sound quality!

Recalls and Safety Information:

Thomas and Friends Railway toys recalled

Toy News:

Build-A-Bear Workshop? How about Build-a-car with RideMakerz (Click to see the one Dale built.)
What’s with all the doll websites (And where are the communities for boys?)
Trash-talking toys?

Tech News:

A Visa card that you can swipe remotely: convenient, or pickpocket’s dream?
Call 911 silently
WWDC: Apple releases Safari 3 Beta for Mac & Windows and more Mac OS X Leopard details

Interview

This week, we have an informative-yet-chaotic interview with the entire cast and crew of The Radio Adventures of Dr. Floyd, including Grant Baciocco & Doug Price, as well as Dr. Grant, Dr. Floyd, Dr. Steve, Fidgert, Tim Porary, and even the Narrator! Find out why the Narrator never comes to the live shows!
And, as a special bonus, you can listen to the full unedited 45 minute interview at our website!

Video Game News and Reviews:

Majesco announces Fish Tycoon for DS
Scholastic announces Edutainment titles for DS: "I SPY: Fun House" and "Animal Genius"

Review

Wii Play

Teresa stops in long enough to play a few rounds of Wii Play and discuss the pros and cons.

Got feedback?

Join our Discussion List
Call our feedback line: 206-339-6480
Leave a voice message with your computer microphone
Or e-mail us

Closing Announcements:

We get an anonymous voice message. (Who was that digital man, anyway?)
If you’re listening to the mp3 feed in iTunes, get the enhanced version!
And hello, Afghanistan!

Episode 6: Rock Star / Dad

Sun, 27 May 2007 21:45:13 -0500

This week, in addition to an awesome interview, since he’s a rock star and all, we’ve included a couple songs for your listening pleasure. But also check out GottaPlay: cheaper and better than GameFly.

Safety Information:

(No recalls this week.)

Toy News:

Sorry, no toy news this week. There just wasn’t anything worth reporting, and we saw no reason to report on boring stuff.

Tech News:

Interview

This week, we’re honored to have Jonathan Coulton, rock star of the Internet, contributing troubadour for Popular Science (PopSci) Magazine, and dad. Jonathan talks about his decision to go from code monkey to musician and how fatherhood and his unique career complement each other and how he juggles the two. We also feature two of his songs, "Stroller Town" and "You Ruined Everything" at the end of the show (Click the link--you have to read the description of "You Ruined Everything" to really appreciate it.)

JoCo fans, as you listen to the interview, how many lyrics does he work into the discussion? Speaking of which, we also used clips from "Code Monkey" and "Chiron Beta Prime".

Video Game News and Reviews:

Play video games instead of watching movie previews
The Wii and family games stomp on the XBox 360 and PS3
Namco Museum Remix for the Wii announced: How many places can Pac-Man appear?!

Review

Wii Sports

Yeah, it’s included with the Wii, but we give our indepth take on the minigames.

Next week, we have a great interview with the creators and the entire cast of the Radio Adventures of Dr. Floyd, as well as a special bonus surprise! Meanwhile, check out the Dr. Floyd Live Show!

And send us your feedback by text, voice, or phone (206-339-6480)! We’re not too proud to beg.

Episode 5: Podcasting families

Tue, 01 May 2007 23:19:02 -0500

Balancing family and podcasting, especially when doing a family-centric podcast, can be difficult. We have a solution.

Recalls and Safety Information:

Toy News:

SpiderShootEmUp: It’s Duck Hunt Meets Spider-Man!
Barbie Girls: It’s Barbie meets Second Life. Full review next week.
VTech adds Smartville line for age 1-3

Tech News:

George Foreman’s iGrill: the lean, mean cookout party machine (not the fake version)
Amazon vs. iTunes in the race for DRM-free software
Mobile Wallet: your cell phone as a credit card
Tritton TRI-UA512 AXPC USB headphones: Surround Sound in headphones
Michigan couple seeks to adopt through MySpace
Teen text messaging: Win $20K, bt lower yr gramA n sp ability
Gadgets broken? This website will help fixya
Should the presidential debates be posted on YouTube or given a Creative Commons License (CCL)?

Interview

This week, Dennis Gray from the 101 Uses for Baby Wipes podcast joins Dale to talk about familycasting: podcasting about your family. The original Daddycaster talks about why he’s been on hiatus (You know you’ve been wondering!), protecting family privacy online, and tips for setting up your own familycast.

Video Game News and Reviews:

Wii supply low, but demand still high (But we got one!)
"Playstation Eye" for PS3: The new and improved EyeToy isn’t a toy. It’s just attached to and used with one.
PS3’s try to cure uncurable diseases: the Folding@Home project
Transformers coming to Nintendo DS with Wi-Fi play

Review

Sonic X for LeapFrog Leapster

5-year-old Hannah joins us again for another Leapster review. This time, we take a look at Sonic X.

Come back next week for an interview with Jonathan Coulton!

Send us voice feedback with no phone charges.

And win a free iPod by posting a review of our podcast!

Oh, and not sure what happened to the audio at the end. Sorry about that.

Episode 4: Good Old Fashioned Cyber-Parenting

Tue, 17 Apr 2007 21:46:55 -0500

We’re back after a long medical hiatus. We’re all recovered from laryngitis and an appendectomy and ready for a ton of tech and toy news, along with a story about self-sacrifice and cheap video games!

Toy News:

Pink Power Moms fight breast cancer
Visa: It’s everywhere, even in the Game of Life

Tech News:

We have a lot of tech news to discuss this week, so we had to move quickly through them, but these are rather noteworthy.

Free Zune with subscription?
Sandisk’s Sansa Connect: iPod Killer?
Apple TV: Hacks & HDTV, and Apple doesn’t care
Hatchback GD06 GPS with Camera: Know where you were!
Kodak’s cheap Easyshare 5300 printer: not so much
FastMac’s Blu-ray Drive for Macintosh
Toshiba HD-A20 HD DVD player: only $499: Deal or No Deal?
Leopard Delayed: What does this mean for Boot Camp?
Upgraded to Windows Vista yet? Most haven’t.
Are you a wilfer?
Termination fees for your broadband?
Principal sues over MySpace libel

Interview

This week, Dale talks to Danielle Yates, Communications Director for GetNetWise.org, from the Internet Education Foundation, a public service to help families with the resources they need to keep kids safe on the Internet. We talk about educating parents, internet safety and child protection initiatives, computer hygiene, and parental control software. The biggest dangers aren’t necessarily predators, and the cautions are no longer limited to your home computer.

Video Game News and Reviews:

Wii

Sony PS3 and PSP

Sony drops prices of PSP and removes PS3 version

XBox 360

XBox 360 QWERTY thumbpad keyboard

Review

Clifford the Big Red Dog for Leapster

5-year-old Hannah joins Dale for a review of Clifford the Big Red Dog Reading for the LeapFrog Leapster and L-Max.
You will not find another podcast reviewing Leapster titles. We checked.

Thank-you to our sponsor, PDAPerformance.com, makers of award-winning Palm OS software.

Also, You can also look for Dale in a guest appearance on the latest episode of the Daddy Panel.

Send us voice feedback with no phone charges.

And win a free iPod by posting a review of our podcast!

Episode 3: Will Work for Shuriken

Mon, 05 Mar 2007 09:24:21 -0600

Following being distracted with a birthday party with giggly girls, Dale and Teresa decide to make toy news a permanent addition to our lineup.

Recalls and Safety Information:

Remote Controlled Car Battery Recall: Fly Wheels XPV: Don’t get burned! Call (877) 875-2557 between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or email them at battery@jakks.net

Toy News:

Virtual Distance Football tells how far the football was thrown
More about the Polly Wheels: Race Cars for Polly Pockets
Toy of the Year Awards

Tech News:

Citizen VIRT W700 Bluetooth Watch: Your watch and phone complete each others’ sentences
New digital camcorders from Mustek: DV530TZ and DV700TZ (AKA Cheap and Cheaper)
The Sony BDP-S300 Blu-Ray Player: Same price as a PS3, but without the games
Norton 360 replaces Norton Internet Security
Digital Comic Books
GadgetTrak: a free digital beacon for stolen accessories (Note: Windows-only. Mac users need not apply.)
BitTorrent Online Store
High Tech Hotels add HDTV and iPod Support

Interview

This week, we talk to Amy Barklow from Atlus Software. She tells us all about their latest game for the Nintendo DS, Izuna: Legend of the Unemployed Ninja. We also ask about innovations in video game design. Visit the Official Izuna site to get a feel for the game before you buy.
Note: This interview was recorded a couple weeks ago, so "released this week" is not accurate.

Video Game News and Reviews:

MySims coming to the Wii and DS
PS3 and Europe: Get an American model! (or a Wii)

Family Games to be Released This Week: (It’s the week of the DS!)

NBA Street Homecourt (PS3) (already for 360)
College Hoops 2K7 (PS3) (already for PS2, XBox, XBox 360)
Burnout Dominator (PS2, PSP) (E10+)
Hard Rock Casino (PSP) (Already for PS2, PC, Macintosh)
Hot Wheels Ultimate Racing (PSP)
Major League Baseball 2K7 (DS) (Already for XBox, XBox 360, PS2, PS3, PSP)
Wario: Master of Disguise (DS) (E10+)
Risk/Clue/Perfection/Aggravation (DS)
Rayman Raving Rabbids (DS, XBox 360) (Already for PC, Wii, PS2, GBA, PSP)
Shrek Smash ’N’ Crash (DS) (Already for PS2, GCN, PSP)
Uno 52 (DS) (Already for GBA)
Harlem Globetrotters World Tour (DS) (Already for GBA, PSP)
Frisbee/Frisbee Golf (DS)
Uno Freefall (GBA) (If you have a DS, get Uno for DS instead)
Sonic Mega Collection Plus (PC) (Already for PS2, XBox)

Review: Games you might have missed

Ribbit King for GameCube (GCN) or PS2

We often like to review slightly older games that are still fun to play and can be found on a family budget. This week, we’re playing Frolf (Frog Golf).

Give us your feedback (206-339-6480) or post a review at your favorite podcast directory, like iTunes.

Special Edition 1: Toy Stories

Sun, 25 Feb 2007 16:36:55 -0600

We bring you a special bonus episode featuring the latest toys from the American International Toy Fair. More tech news and a ninja interview in a few days--shouldn’t be a week before the next one, and sorry about the delay on this one.

Featured Toy Stories

Build-A-Bear Workshop is coming to the Nintendo DS
Fisher-Price ’Smart Cycle’-ride a bike while playing video games
Also from Fisher-Price: A parachute fabric fort, Easy-Link Internet Launchpad (Think ’USB Elmo’), baby monkeys, a growing plush dog, and a Singing Pizza-making Elmo
Tech toys for girls...and their dads!
Barbie Chat Diva (Barbie with an iPod and mobile phone), Barbie as remote control, Fairyoke Wings: Karaoke Barbie, Pom-Pom Divas Fly Girls (Cheerleader Barbies), and Barbie Girls for Tweens
Lots of plug-in USB online games from VTech and Hasbro, but safe to use online like the Whiz Kid Learning System
LeapFrog has new Fly Pen: The Fly Fusion Pentop Computer
ClickStart My First Computer on the TV from LeapFrog
New Leapster titles including Clifford the Big Red Dog, Sonic X, Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends, Go Diego Go!, Ratatouille, and Pixar’s Cars
Brightlings: Leapfrog for Babies & Toddlers
Bandai adds Girlz Connect(TM) Tech Toys: LocketPal and Destiny
Bratz Super Heroes Babies and Movie Stars
Transformers: The Movie clips shown at fair
Hasbro signs 12-brand apparel licensing deal with Steve and Barry’s stores

And check out Saguaro from PDA Performance, our sponsor!

Episode 2: Toy Fair Preview

Tue, 13 Feb 2007 01:26:14 -0600

This week kicks off the American International Toy Fair in New York City. We give you a preview, along with the usual blend of technology news and video game information.