AwesomeCast 776: Tim Cook Steps Down, Game Pass Gets Weird & Can PurePlank Fix the Dad Bod? | AwesomeCast 776

About this Episode

On this episode of AwesomeCast, Sorg and Dave Podnar cover practical tech from the gym floor to the bedroom to the browser tab. Sorg reviews the PurePlank workout board after his first session and talks about whether a gadget like this can realistically fit into a busy travel-heavy schedule. Dave follows up on his experience with the ResMed AirSense 11 CPAP, sharing how the app, sleep data, and improved rest are already making a difference.

The conversation also spotlights Taher Elgamal, often called the father of SSL, as part of their Arab American History Month recognition. From there, they pivot into fast-moving tech news and commentary, including Microsoft’s changing Game Pass Ultimate value proposition, Sorg’s shift from Facebook and other feeds over to Reddit, early thoughts on DaVinci Resolve’s still-image color tools, and big Apple leadership news as Tim Cook steps aside as CEO and John Ternus moves into the top role.

They also touch on the strange realities of online comments, ad-heavy platforms, software lock-in, and what makes some tools hard to leave even when alternatives are everywhere. Plus: Chachi’s Video Game Minute, a quick mention of the NFL Draft app experience in Pittsburgh, and a tease for extra Patreon conversation.

News stories and gadgets discussed
PurePlank workout board
Sorg gives first impressions of the plank-focused fitness device, including build quality, comfort, portability, app support, and whether it feels more approachable than traditional planking.
ResMed AirSense 11 CPAP
Dave shares an early follow-up after getting his machine, including setup, comfort, mask style, sleep scoring, and the real-world impact it is already having on his rest and recovery.
Taher Elgamal / father of SSL
A spotlight on one of the foundational figures behind secure internet communication and web security, tied to Arab American History Month.
Microsoft Game Pass Ultimate changes
The hosts react to pricing/value changes and the decision to delay launch access for future Call of Duty titles, asking whether the new structure is actually a better deal for non-Call of Duty players.
Reddit replacing other social feeds
Sorg talks about moving away from Facebook, political content, and repetitive tech feeds in favor of a more curated Reddit experience, including the appeal of paying to remove ads.
DaVinci Resolve still-image color tools
Dave and Sorg discuss Blackmagic’s push into photo workflows, especially for creators who already live in video editing and want consistent color tools across media.
Tim Cook stepping down as Apple CEO
The show breaks down what Cook’s transition means, why his supply-chain and operations legacy matters, and what it could mean that Apple’s next leader comes from the hardware side.
Chachi Says Video Game Minute
Quick hits include the Zelda movie moving to post-production, Artemis II driving interest in Kerbal Space Program, and the 91-year-old woman found safe and happily gaming during a welfare check.
NFL Draft app reminder
Dave flags a practical tip for anyone attending the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh: make sure the official app is installed before you arrive.

1. Show-notes links paired to topics mentioned on-air

PurePlank — https://gopureplank.com/
ResMed AirSense 11 — https://www.resmed.com/en-us/products/cpap/machines/airsense-11/
Taher Elgamal — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taher_Elgamal
Tim Cook stepping down / Apple leadership story — https://www.macworld.com/article/3119381/tim-cook-stepping-down-as-apple-ceo-in-shock-announcement.html
DaVinci Resolve photo/still image discussion source — https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=25876562148688561&set=a.334146796690114