Episodes

Wednesday Feb 19, 2025
Wednesday Feb 19, 2025
In the first episode of this new series from the Smarticle Podcast, the focus is on the prevalence and mechanisms of scams on freelance sites, particularly Upwork. Brandon interviews writer Justin Caffier, who shares his personal experience of falling victim to an Upwork scam. They discuss the tactics used by scammers, platform vulnerabilities, and the broader implications of these scams on the gig economy. Caffier's journey, described in his Mashable article, deeply explores the pitfalls and systemic issues within freelance platforms. The episode concludes with a discussion on the responsibility of companies like Upwork to protect their users and the potential risks of an Uberized labor market.
00:00 Introduction to Digital and Online Scams
01:10 Justin Caffier's Upwork Scam Experience
02:02 Reading Justin's Article on Upwork Scams
05:35 The Mechanics of Upwork and Freelance Scams
14:46 Personal Experiences with Upwork Scams
23:31 The Responsibility of Platforms in Preventing Scams
26:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
smarticlepodcast@gmail.com
https://www.instagram.com/justincaffier/
@JustinCaffier
I got scammed on Upwork so you don't have to
@Smarticleshow @BDDoble @larryolson threads.net/@smarticleshow @brand.dobes The Smarticle Podcast
https://www.smarticlepodcast.com/
#justincaffier #mashable #gigwork #gigworkscam #upworkscams #onlinescams #smarticlepodcast

Sunday Feb 16, 2025
Smarticle - The Smarticle Scams Trailer
Sunday Feb 16, 2025
Sunday Feb 16, 2025
In this gripping series, the Smarticle Podcast reveals the massive, yet underreported, threat of online scams that are costing American households billions of dollars a year. From phishing emails to fake websites, these digital deceptions are undermining societal trust and destabilizing American life. Join Brandon, Larry, and the Smarticle Media team as they discuss the growing menace of digital fraud with industry experts and scam victims in order to learn effective strategies to protect yourself from becoming the next target. Additionally, meet Andrew, an AI voice, as a chilling example of how advanced and deceptive these scams have become. Prepare to dive deep into the complex world of online fraud and safeguard your digital presence.
00:00 The Biggest Threat You've Never Heard Of
00:40 The Decline of American Society
01:09 The Rise of Digital Scams
01:37 A Silent Epidemic
01:53 Introducing Smarticle Scams
02:02 Meet Andrew, the AI Voice
02:19 Join Us on This Journey
#scams #pigbutchering #onlinescams

Friday Nov 01, 2024
Friday Nov 01, 2024
Today on the Smarticle, Brandon and Larry announce their upcoming hiatus and reflect on the three-year journey of the podcast. We discuss the evolution of the show, which aims to provide a concise alternative to long podcasts, and our future ambitions. The conversation shifts to a discussion on politics, faith, and the importance of listening and understanding diverse perspectives rooted in love and compassion. The episode concludes with expressions of gratitude to our loyal listeners and a hopeful note on returning in a new format.
00:00 Introduction and Announcement
01:02 Reflecting on the Journey
01:44 Hiatus and Future Plans
02:11 God Talk Friday
2:17 Politics and Religion
06:01 Progressive Ideologies and Challenges
13:00 The Third Way and Final Thoughts
15:31 Gratitude and Farewell
smarticlepodcast@gmail.com
#hiatus #finalshow #grace #listening #god #trust #cac #fatherrohr #richardrohr #centerforactionandcontemplation #spiritual #faith #godtok #faithtalk #realfaith #smarticlepodcast #podcast #smarticle @dailymeditations @Smarticleshow @BDDoble @larryolson threads.net/@smarticleshow @brand.dobes The Center for Action and Contemplation The Smarticle Podcast

Wednesday Oct 09, 2024
Smarticle - Hurricane Helene and Smarticle: Fear Ain't No Joke
Wednesday Oct 09, 2024
Wednesday Oct 09, 2024
Today we talk about the emotional and physical challenges faced during the storm, including concerns for family safety, power outages, and acts of kindness from the community. Brandon shares the overwhelming emotions experienced, akin to grief, and reflects on fear, comparing it to the experiences of soldiers coming back from war. Despite the difficulties, it highlights the dedication of first responders and community support. Brandon plans to return to the impacted area to help, while Larry talks about living comfortably in California.
00:00 Introduction and Audio Disclaimer
00:43 Experiencing the Hurricane
01:58 Emotional Impact and Family Stories
03:24 Reflections on Fear and Survival
06:16 Comparisons and Broader Reflections
10:26 Acts of Kindness and First Responders
12:09 Conclusion and Moving Forward
Fear as a Game
smarticlepodcast@gmail.com
#hurricanehelene #fear #apocalypse #asheville #ashevillestrong #catastrophe #flooding #ashevillenc #smarticlepodcast #podcast #smarticle @Smarticleshow @BDDoble @larryolson threads.net/@smarticleshow @brand.dobes The Smarticle Podcast
https://www.smarticlepodcast.com/

Wednesday Sep 04, 2024
Smarticle - The Myth of JD Vance: A Conversation With Bobi Conn
Wednesday Sep 04, 2024
Wednesday Sep 04, 2024
Today on the Smarticle Podcast we welcome back Bobby Conn, author of 'In the Shadow of the Valley,' marking her as the show's first-ever two-time guest. We delve into her Time Magazine article critiquing JD Vance's memoir 'Hillbilly Elegy' and its portrayal of Appalachia. The discussion covers the importance of acknowledging the social structures that enable upward mobility in America, and what Vance could potentially do to help America's working poor if elected to a high office. The conversation emphasizes the significance of public schools, stability in the home, and social support systems in overcoming poverty and addiction.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back
00:43 Technical Difficulties and Co-Host Absence
01:27 Discussing Bobby Kahn's Writing
02:02 Hillbilly Elegy and J.D. Vance
03:12 Exploring J.D. Vance's Political Impact
07:35 The Myth of Bootstrapping
11:10 The Role of Social Structures
21:40 Final Thoughts and Call for Honest Dialogue
The Myth that J.D. Vance Bootstrapped His Way to the Top
smarticlepodcast@gmail.com
#rselfmademan #jdvance #bobiconn #timemagazine #mythofjdvance #hillbillyelegy #bootstraps #smarticle @Smarticleshow @BDDoble @larryolson threads.net/@smarticleshow @brand.dobes The Smarticle Podcast
https://www.smarticlepodcast.com/

Tuesday Sep 03, 2024
Smarticle - Larry is Back. Bigger, Stronger, and Faster Than He Was Before!
Tuesday Sep 03, 2024
Tuesday Sep 03, 2024
Today on the Smarticle Podcast we share Larry's experiences of starting new jobs and dealing with technology challenges. Larry, a seasoned Silicon Valley professional, recounts trying to adapt to modern tech after decades in radio. We discuss the impacts of relying solely on a phone for a week, family dynamics, and adjusting to new career demands. Larry also shares personal anecdotes about managing a busy household, golf escapades, and the surprising effects of trying a nicotine patch. A candid conversation laced with humor and insights on adapting to change.
00:00 Starting Fresh: New Beginnings and Challenges
01:13 Larry's Tech Struggles: A Week Without Computers
02:21 Family Dynamics and Communication Woes
09:12 Career Shifts and New Routines
10:56 Unexpected Adventures: Golf and Nicotine Patches
13:09 Reflections and Lessons Learned
smarticlepodcast@gmail.com
#larryolson #tech #lifewithoutacomputer #newjob #ryanseacrest #technology #familydynamics #smarticlepodcast #podcast #smarticle @Smarticleshow @BDDoble @larryolson threads.net/@smarticleshow @brand.dobes The Smarticle Podcast
https://www.smarticlepodcast.com/

Wednesday Jul 31, 2024
Smarticle - A Crisis on the Job Site Part Two - Justin Azbill
Wednesday Jul 31, 2024
Wednesday Jul 31, 2024
Today we talk to Justin Azbill, a trustee of the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention. We discuss with him the alarming rates of suicide and substance abuse among construction workers. Justin shares his personal journey and the mental health challenges faced by workers in the construction industry, emphasizing the importance of breaking the stigma, seeking proactive measures, and establishing peer support groups. He also provides resources and practical advice for those struggling, highlighting the critical need for industry-wide awareness and action.
00:00 The Alarming Suicide Rates in Construction
03:11 Justin Asbill's Background and Experience
05:15 The Mental Health Crisis in Construction
07:11 Justin's Personal Struggles and Turning Point
09:27 Industry Response and Peer Support
13:00 Proactive Measures and Resources
16:10 Final Thoughts and Gratitude
Construction workers are dying by suicide at an alarming rate
You Turn Health
Recovery Ways
smarticlepodcast@gmail.com
#constructionworkers #mentalhealth #mentalhealthonthejobsite #selfcare #justinazbill #mentalhealth #988 #vetranscrisisline #youturnhealth #recoveryways #veterans #smarticlepodcast #podcast #smarticle @Smarticleshow @BDDoble @larryolson threads.net/@smarticleshow @brand.dobes The Smarticle Podcast
https://www.smarticlepodcast.com/

Friday Jul 26, 2024
Smarticle - Larry's Last Day In Radio
Friday Jul 26, 2024
Friday Jul 26, 2024
In this special episode of the Smarticle Podcast, the team celebrates Larry's last day in radio after a remarkable 20-year career. Friends, family, and colleagues come together to share heartfelt stories, laugh over fond memories, and roast Larry with love. From humorous tales about radio mishaps to touching tributes, this episode captures the essence of Larry’s impact on those around him. Tune in for a mixture of laughs, nostalgia, and a bit of trivia as Larry embarks on a new chapter in his life.
00:00 Introduction and Special Announcement
00:40 Larry's Last Day Reflections
01:06 Surprise Office Visit
02:02 Farewell Messages and Memories
04:01 Larry's Radio Career Highlights
10:11 Trivia and Fun Moments
13:06 Final Words and Goodbyes
SF to vote on $390M infrastructure bond, police pay increas
smarticlepodcast@gmail.com
#larryolson #iheartmedia #iheartradio #radio #djlex #larryolsonisthesecretshitter #endofradio #ryanseacrest #smarticlepodcast #podcast #smarticle @Smarticleshow @BDDoble @larryolson threads.net/@smarticleshow @brand.dobes The Smarticle Podcast
https://www.smarticlepodcast.com/

Thursday Jul 11, 2024
Smarticle - Bobi Conn - Appalachian Life and Legacy: An Interview with Bobi Conn
Thursday Jul 11, 2024
Thursday Jul 11, 2024
Today we are very honored to have on the Smarticle Podcast, author and cultural advocate, Bobi Conn. Bobi shares her experiences growing up in rural Appalachia. Raised in a holler in Moorhead, Kentucky, Conn discusses the cultural and economic challenges faced by the region. She also shares personal anecdotes, including overcoming childhood poverty and abuse, and highlights the journey that led to her memoir, 'In the Shadow of the Valley.' Conn delves into the importance of nature, reading, and education in her path to success, offering inspirational insights into life in Appalachia.
00:00 Introduction to Bobi Conn
01:24 Defining Appalachia and Hollers
05:18 Life in Appalachia: Personal Stories
07:44 Challenges and Cultural Reflections
12:24 Journey from Appalachia to Success
17:04 Appalachian Terms Quiz
18:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In the Shadow of the Valley
The Demonization of Rural America 8 minute read Appalachia
smarticlepodcast@gmail.com
#ruralamerica #appalachia #intheshadowofthevalley #bobiconn #bereacollege #bereakentucky #appalachianauthor #author #smarticlepodcast #podcast #smarticle @Smarticleshow @BDDoble @larryolson threads.net/@smarticleshow @brand.dobes The Smarticle Podcast
https://www.smarticlepodcast.com/

The Smarticle Podcast
Larry and Brandon began podcasting together in the Spring of 2008. The relationship has been fraught with much anger and tears (mostly Larry's). But within this crucible of fire has been forged a team of podcasters dedicated to changing the podcasting world; or at least making a decent sounding show. We use over 1000 years of collective life experience to weave a tapestry the likes of which the world has never known. Come check out our work whenever you want at The Smarticle Podcast