Latest from Wizardgold 2009-12-06

Posted on December 6, 2009 by admin

From blog: Contact Us http://video20q.com/2009/12/contact-us/ #
@bldngnerd What about what the female people will say tomorrow ? in reply to bldngnerd #
That XFactor is weird – Olly gets through and that Danyl is a better singer by a long way. #
@bldngnerd Giving them a full charge now and I hope it is soon when I can use the MagicMouse again in reply to bldngnerd #
@bldngnerd I used some re chargeable when I took the original batteries out they didn't last too long – but they were not fully charged in reply to bldngnerd #
Batteries needed changing in the MagicMouse seems strange to put my hand around the MightyMouse instead.. #
Downloading next 13 podcasts to listen to or watch. Cranky Geeks, Maccast, MacCraic, The DV show, MacVoices, Mac Eyes Only, BuzzOut-Loud #
Toying with the idea of moving the audio studio to the basement where I can make a dedicated sound room with the proper sound panels #
Video showing how to use MPEG StreamClip http://bit.ly/4yLhbB Very useful tool for crunching video clips prior to & after Final Cut #
Time to take the dog for her walk – Think I will listen to Mac Break Weekly Podcast while walking #
Anyone else having problems with Godaddy being down ? #
RT @INDT: Barcelona FC star is Euro player of the year http://bit.ly/7XGtSv – Nice one Lionel Messi #
RT @Video20Q: New Video 20 Questions Podcast featuring @NewMediaDude Marcelo Lewin. http://bit.ly/5xPf0z #
I would like to give a big thankyou to @leolaporte & @PatMahon for providing the most fun I've had on Twitter for a long time. #
@sgordo Exactly – I would say the same ! in reply to sgordo #
@PatMahon Sorry Pat but I don't drink beer, You can buy me a cup of tea though. No sugar thanks in reply to PatMahon #
Extra looking forward to Liverpool Tweetup we will have so much to talk about.. #
@PatMahon Why have you got a million & a half in yours too ? LOL Couldn't accept a beer anyway people might think that you were affiliated in reply to PatMahon #
@PatMahon Share it out of course – but we will not give the lazy good for nothing spongers any of it though….. in reply to PatMahon #
Walking down the street a guy in a flash suit gets out of his mercedes & says can you spare a $2 for a cup of coffee. What do you say ? #
@macuseruk I think you are right there about that. in reply to macuseruk #
@paulshadwell If he doesn't need the donations then he could remove the button asking for donations, That would be commendable in reply to paulshadwell #
@paulshadwell Not out of order to wish for some fairness in the world -see other people with huge debts doing their best not getting support in reply to paulshadwell #
@paulshadwell I don't like to see the bankers in the UK getting the bonuses when the little people can't pay their mortgages either in reply to paulshadwell #
@PatMahon Yep- he is definitely cheeky. No doubt about that in reply to PatMahon #
@PatMahon The cut off point is for each individual to decide. for me 1.5 mil in the wallet & then ask for donations is an unusual strategy in reply to PatMahon #
@PatMahon I suggested that there are up coming podcasts that could better use the money. Nothing cheeky in that in reply to PatMahon #
@paulshadwell …does good stuff and is entitled to keep getting paid. The choice is with the payee in reply to paulshadwell #
@paulshadwell Even @podfeet said she will keep paying him after giving him a severe telling off on her show. Obviously he does does stuff in reply to paulshadwell #
@bldngnerd Leo does a great job at what he does Many will pay him donations which is great for him. I still think it is cheeky he asked. in reply to bldngnerd #
@stuhelm @bldngnerd who said anything about passion being present or not. I have seen some shows with passion behind that are not too good in reply to stuhelm #
@stuhelm What about you Stu – wouldn't you like to earn a living from podcasting – Is IMP good enough to earn you some cash ? in reply to stuhelm #
@stuhelm It doesn't have to be one or the other. I imagine it is possible to do both, it is not mutually exclusive in reply to stuhelm #
@stuhelm Who said I wasn't enjoying doing it? Even podcasters have to eat though I expect Leo is in for the money though & well done to him in reply to stuhelm #
@PatMahon Leo is the doing the poor mouth he was asking for donations and in the blog saying that he didn't even need it. in reply to PatMahon #
@PatMahon Over sensitive here
Mac20Q and the rest of the 20Q brand is a good podcast that is building gradually. I am impatient thats all. in reply to PatMahon #
@PatMahon Know what you think about Mac 20Q now then . in reply to PatMahon #
Leo that makes $1.5 million a year has the begging bowl out – http://bit.ly/6H7QRA Support podcast start ups instead filling his pocket ! #
Just phoned my brother in Newcastle to wish him happy birthday. I usually sing my birthday greeting in a humorous manner, just for fun #
@mattbleasby OK – I will be out between 3pm and 5:30pm – looking forward to a chat in reply to mattbleasby #
@mattbleasby good luck with the web site – what is the community that you will build or work with ? in reply to mattbleasby #
@mattbleasby Did you get doing any podcasting yet ? in reply to mattbleasby #
RT @indiemoviemaker: Brian Newman talks "How to be better than free" video. http://ow.ly/I7JC #fb #
I uploaded a YouTube video — Adding pages ito WOrdpress http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOecH3woQCs&feature=autoshare_twitter #
Podcasting this morning for Video20Q. The interview of @Newmediadude is just right to go there as well as on Mac 20 Questions #
@NewMediaDude you are welcome Marcelo – I am pleased that your were a guest on the Mac 20Q Podcast. It was a blast in reply to NewMediaDude #
@finnvoice I am a podcaster & would be keen to have a chat with you about podcasting. in reply to finnvoice #
http://bit.ly/7orRj1 Nice guy Marcelo the dude talks New Media with Mac 20 Questions #
The @newMediaDude talks to Mac20Q http://bit.ly/7orRj1 Here is podcast 74 of Mac 20 Questions #
Mac20Q Latest-: Mac20Q Podcast 74 @NewMediaDude http://mac20q.com/2009/12/mac20q-podcast-74-newmediadude/ #
doing some audio testing with a new lavalier mic connected to my zoom H2 recorder & it is working out well in AmadeusPro using filters #
Just finished editing the interview for Mac20Q Podcast 74 talking to @NewMediaDude. The guy really knows his stuff with video podcasting ! #
So pleased to get talking to Gary from MacMost Podcast. Really nice bloke to talk to about Macs and podcasting. Very good interview #
@NewMediaDude I use AmadeusPro – Excellent app – multi track audio – does all I need in reply to NewMediaDude #
I subscribed to karatechopkid's channel on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/user/karatechopkid?feature=autoshare_twitter #
Making the Steadicam with shelf brackets, Universal Joint, skateboard bearing + bits. Should be ready very soon balance adjust will be vital #
RT @Raindance_Fest: RT @Toskian: Eleven Final Cut Pro tips: http://bit.ly/6uymJF #
Making a Merlin type steady cam. did some drilling & sticking with glue – have to wait 12 hours for the glue to dry now. Looking excellent #
Now to do some editing of audio – interview of @newmediadude. Looking forward to listening to him again. Good tech chat for Mac20Q #
Dog walked – Nosillacast and Bageltech news podcasts listened to. thank goodness Bart wasn't talking Belgian railways this week… #
Mac20Q Screencast http://bit.ly/4yLhbB On Youtube. How to use MPEG StreamClip with FinalCut Express. Pls RT #
How come you went for the 4:3 – I would have thought you would go 16:9 H… (YouTube http://bit.ly/8UpQrj) #
@podcasthelper Yes that would be great to have a bit of a chat about MPEG & learn some more. Amazing I hadn't heard about it before at all in reply to podcasthelper #
Mac20Q Latest-: Mac20Q Tip 13 – Using MPEG StreamClip http://mac20q.com/2009/11/mac20q-tip-13-using-mpeg-streamclip/ #
I uploaded a YouTube video — Mac20Q Tips 13 Using MPEG StreamClip http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hFPSBxDKASk&feature=autoshare_twitter #
@bldngnerd I gave you a mention on my latest blog post with links to your site. Thanks for the info about MPEG StreamClip #
Mac20Q Latest-: November scoots by http://mac20q.com/2009/11/november-scoots-by/ #
@stuhelm You have to keep battling away Stu and don't let the bastards kick you while you are down. Besides you have plenty of time yet in reply to stuhelm #

The NewMediaDude talks to Mac20Q – Podcast 74

Posted on December 2, 2009 by admin

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (29.4MB)

Whether you want to find out more about The Office In The Cloud, New Media Analytics, Monetizing Your Content, Beginning Podcasting, Make Your Green Screen Shots Look Great On The Web, Mobile Devices and TV, Extending Your Brand With An iPhone App, using Twitter For Leads, then the place to start learning about these topics is at

Center For New Media Studies.

Marcelo is the NewMediaDude an he talks to me about his new media business and about how he creates new media and gets paid for it. As you can see he is shy because he only supplied me with a very small photo of himself, despite being a handsome man. I thought at first that I should pronounce his name in the Italian way but he informed me that the correct way is the Argentinian or possibly French. Aren’t we being very international here on Mac20Q.

Honestly though I had a great talk with Marcelo and I know you will learn things from what he had to say as well as enjoy the interview. He has a pro camera with the Sony EX1, I know is good because my son who is a professional cameraman has one the same and the guys at Double Edge Films told me that either they would like one of they have one, can’t remember which right now.

Marcelo Lewin, CEO / Founder
As the CEO and founder of Center For New Media Studies and CNMS TV, Marcelo Lewin is in charge of the vision, the day to day operations of the company and building strategic partnerships and alliances. Previously, Marcelo founded and was the CEO of Pixel Heads Network, which was acquired by ProMAX Systems in 2008. Prior to that he founded My Internet Desktop, which was acquired by Internet Appliance Network in 2000. Having worked with a variety of companies, from Walt Disney Imagineering to NBC to Toyota, he is always on the forefront of interactive and new media projects.

I have looked at his site and it is certainly impressive and I have signed up to see on of his Webinars later this month.

Marcelo was telling that sometimes it is just him working alone like a one man band with his camera, sound gear and the cymbals attached to his knees, a harmonica around his neck and a large drum on his back. That has got to be funny to look at. Seriously though he asks the questions and holds the camera and I can only imagine how difficult that can be trying to control some impressive technology at the same time. Marcelo is a great guy and I really enjoyed talking to him.

Find out more at Mac 20 Questions.

Posted via email from Mac 20 Questions

November scoots by

Posted on December 1, 2009 by admin

Like life really, November flew past and now we have December to look forward to. The Americans did their ritual sacrifice during the month and in December the Europeans will also do the sacrifice thing with a poor turkey. Seems that cooking a turkey in America involves putting the whole thing in a vat of hot oil, a la deep fried. Have to spend the following 2 months dieting to redress the balance, probably. Is it any wonder I am a vegetarian?

Apple news has been fairly slow seeing as they came out, early in the month to say that there would be nothing more in the line up for the holidays. The rumour mill can take a bit of a break now until CES in January and then MacWorld in February. Still no sign of a tablet computer from Apple and even rumours to say that the thing was likely to be delayed. Amazing how you can delay something that was only a rumour in the first place. We don’t do rumours here on Mac20Q anyway.

I have spent loads of time watching video from Lynda.com to learn how to do video with FinalCut Express. Pleased I got it despite that fact that it is more work to do things sometimes that it is with iMovie. Well I still have iMovie there to avail of but there is no point in having FinalCut Express and then not using it because I have iMovie. There will come the video projects that need FinalCut Express and I want to know what I am doing for that. So I will have to just devote the time that is needed to the learning curve. I expect that after a while I will be so au fait with FinalCut Express that it will seem to be as quick, anyway.

One of the things that I struggled with, was the getting the video files to be a decent size for uploading to the web. I did manage to find some settings that still gave me the quality I wanted from the 1280 by 720 video but then this morning Matt Hillyer gave me information about MPEG StreamClip, an application that is so small, must be using the Quick Time conversion already on my iMac but gives the controls to do a better job. That is often the way with this video conversion utilities, I also have Videovangelist to try out. There is of course the tried, true and tested Visual hub application though. I did try MPEG StreamClip to convert a DVD but the result was even larger and the sound was offset. Took ages to do it and I had to delete the resulting file. I do like Matts’ work flow though for getting files from ScreenFlow to FinalCut Express and then from FinalCut Express to the web. One test I did today worked a treat. I ended up with a file about half the size and still good quality at the same resolution.

You can see the videos I produce on YouTube on the Wizardgold Channel.

Remember to subscribe to the Mac20Q Podcast on iTunes and even tell your friends about the podcast, or write a review of the podcast there, which will help promote the show. Thanks for those of you that have done that already.

You may leave a comment on the site here too. If you are on the home page of the site, click on the page for the single post and then scroll down to the form to fill in. Looking forward to hearing from you. Let me know if you would like to be featured on the show.

Posted via email from Mac 20 Questions

Using MPEG StreamClip with FinalCut Express

Posted on December 1, 2009 by admin

After getting on so well with MPEG Streamclip which is a free application that will convert video for you from one format to another or you can use it to make the file size smaller prior to upload, or you can use to download clips from places like YouTube. It is really a very capable application. I have only just managed to scratch the surface with it today.

But the secret is out and I have made a Screencast showing you some of the settings and the successes I had while learning what it can do for my work flow. Matthew of the StealthMac Podcast suggested that I use MPEG StreamClip with the movies produced by ScreenFlow before putting them into FinalCut Express. I found that a good idea. It means that there is less rendering to do once you have the clips on the time line.

I did try to convert a DVD to .h364 but that was not a success. the finished file was bigger and also the sound was way out of sync. Have a look at the video below to see what I have been doing today and you will see how you can make use of the free application too.

See the Podcast in HD glory at YouTube

Posted via email from Mac 20 Questions

Latest from Wizardgold 2009-11-29

Posted on November 29, 2009 by admin

@el_villano Errrr yea ??? in reply to el_villano #
Watched Merlin that I missed yesterday because I was watching Star Wars. I think I am turning into a nerd – Help !! #
Using Daisy Disk to look at your Hard Drive & prune if you need more space http://bit.ly/4oJWtO Helps to see where large files are. Mac20Q #
@StefaanLesage I got Daisydisk from MacHeist & for free. Don't think I would pay 19.95 for it though it is very useful in reply to StefaanLesage #
I uploaded a YouTube video — MacQTips 12 Daisy Disk http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XC0uB2bz5DM&feature=autoshare_twitter #
Uploading video now about using Daisydisk a graphical interface to show the files on hard drive. good for clearing out for more space #
@paulmcgovern29 I changed some settings and got the size down of the file by half but still same 1280 by 720. I used QuickTime conversion in reply to paulmcgovern29 #
Hard work getting the settings right in FinalCut Express to get a decent size of file for a short video. #
RT @webbyand: My girlfriend was complaining last night that I never listen to her. Or something like that. << lol #
@paulshadwell with so many of us walking around Liverpool in a group will we need to bring Hoodies with us for the Tweet up in reply to paulshadwell #
I subscribed to screencastsonline's channel on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/user/screencastsonline?feature=autoshare_twitter #
While walking the dog it was podcast time – this morning it was Friday Night Comedy from the BBC. Have to have a laugh now & then #
Follow @bdegrande http://bit.ly/6iMFta Why? Listen to him in this podcast talking about tech & Bridge #
http://bit.ly/6iMFta Mac20Q talked to Bob Degrande in Podcast 73. You should hear what he told me about his Mac #
@paulshadwell Quite a few going to the Liverpool Tweetup then – Glad that I was able to russle up the cash in reply to paulshadwell #
@paulshadwell yes looking forward to it too. I made a complete arse of the hotel reservations but I have it sorted now in reply to paulshadwell #
Made a booking for the Novotel in Liverpool Centre for the Tweetup – Good price for the 2 nights #
@donmcallister yep really looking forward to it – didn't think I would have the cash for the trip but in the end it worked out in reply to donmcallister #
Booked flight and place to stay in Liverpool for the December Tweetup. #
Going to check out the prices for a Trip to Liverpool in December for the Tweetup. To meet up with my mates #
Bob tells Mac20Q Podcast 73 about the apps he likes to use & he is making a video podcast about Bridge the card game – http://bit.ly/6iMFta #
Mac 20 Questions Podcast number 73 http://bit.ly/7CRlj9 I talked with Bob Degrande a bridge playing Mac Podcaster that uses BoinxTV #
Now that I finished the reading the Larsson books I can start on the David Hewson 'Seventh Sacrament' of the Nic Costa detective series #
Not long before I have to set out for my Spanish lesson today. Luckily I have a really good teacher that makes the classes interesting #
Mac20Q Latest-: Mac20Q Podcast 73 Bob Degrande http://mac20q.com/2009/11/mac20q-podcast-73-bob-degrande/ #
Just finished Stieg Larsson book 'The Girl who kicked a Hornets Nest' It is always sad like losing a friend when I finish off a good book ! #
@donmcallister Spending in the Apple toy shop again huh?? – Get anything nice ?? in reply to donmcallister #
Looking at an app called iClip – I have Jumpcut but iClip looks very capable – perhaps more capable ?? #
Writing the script for the intro of Mac20Q Podcast 73 soon to record it – Will publish later today #
RT @ScrivenerApp: The little arrow next to the magnifying glass in the toolbar search field allows you to change the search parameters. #
Just finished editing the Mac20Q interview with @bdegrande who will soon be putting out a podcast about how to play Bridge, the card game. #
@ConfessionMovie Great – I will keep an eye out for you. we can arrange a time to suit us both in reply to ConfessionMovie #
RT @Chance4321: @wizardgold You should check these guys out for one of your Film podcast @ConfessionMovie – Be happy to feature you guys #
I subscribed to googleanalytics's channel on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/user/googleanalytics?feature=autoshare_twitter #
I subscribed to iTalkApple's channel on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/user/iTalkApple?feature=autoshare_twitter #
I got the free PRO version of 1Password for the iPhone although I did already have a version already on my iPhone #
Mozy have a BlackFriday Deal. I use the 2GB gratis backup anyway. http://ping.fm/YGHN6 Good way to keep your files protected – works well #
@leebishop I know – your artistic licence to have it silent. For me though I think a background track would enhance it. Liked it though ! in reply to leebishop #
RT @rosenz: Just posted 'MacMost Now 323: MobileMe iDisk Basics' at http://macmost.com/p-2491 #
RT @PretentiousFilm: Excitement is building — INK Screens in Annapolis in 5 days… http://bit.ly/8oELbG #
@mgetzski Is that the book or the audiobook or both that you have to wait for? in reply to mgetzski #
Started the process for my next Podcast. Bought the domain from GoDaddy used the code POD146 to get 10% discount Paid domain for 2 years #
@mgetzski yes I am on number 3 – Shame Stieg Larsson died as there was another to come. I gather he smoked like a chimney – poor life style in reply to mgetzski #
I favorited a YouTube video — Two Ronnies: Your Nuts, My Lord http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l2e0afvMYqI&feature=autoshare_twitter #
@leebishop Light on the Creek looks good I think some background sound would be great to enhance the moods invoked by the colours & texture in reply to leebishop #
@justinparks There is a chapter in Hornets which is a bit tedious, loads of background info of an organisation but otherwise loving it in reply to justinparks #
@AmandaFClark So are you a fan of foul language then? Your choice, but what makes it so amusing ??? in reply to AmandaFClark #
people using foul language in tweets should know that it shows them in a poor light to their followers & not be surprised when un followed #
Reading the book – The Girl who kicked the Hornets' Nest' by Stieg Larsson. Great story & impossible to put down once picked up #
I did ride a horse once and that was enough for me thank you very much. (YouTube http://bit.ly/5B6j2o) #
@leebishop Are you on YouTube with your movies? in reply to leebishop #
@leebishop iMovie HD was OK – I think it was that one before they changed it out of all recognition. in reply to leebishop #
@leebishop 08 is a pig too – 09 is sooooo much better.! Well good luck anyway in reply to leebishop #
@leebishop What are you using for your editing – I am just getting into Final Cut here and loving it in reply to leebishop #
@JamesTopping yes @PaulMcGovern29 was a great example to educators everywhere with the way he uses new media to teach in the classroom in reply to JamesTopping #
Just interviewed the @newmediadude Marcelo – Excellent talk about new media & I learned something too. Good man Marcelo #
@JamesTopping hey James how are you getting on with your Toffees podcast ? in reply to JamesTopping #
RT @MacSparky: Whoa! @1Password Pro for iPhone is free for one week. http://bit.ly/731Kcz Go download .. now. (via @macgenie) #
I did my first movie editing on FinalCut Express & posted it on YouTube. A bit of fun trying out a few things. #
@jchutchins the author of '7th Son' podcast novel talks about mental institution experience & laughs about it. http://bit.ly/7uYpAk #
I uploaded a YouTube video — HipicaEdna02.mov http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TIZcauYNHPU&feature=autoshare_twitter #
Working with FinalCut Express learning how to do things at the same time. Lots of KB shortcuts to learn. Working on a video with horses in #
Reason to Quit: Apple Warranties Void for Smokers http://om.bit.ly/5pDr3X from @theappleblog #
RT @jeffglasson: RT @thedvshow: FCP Tips: Transfer iPhone 3GS Video with Final Cut Pro http://url4.eu/oRfJ #
Just interviewed @bdegrande a Mac guy into Bridge the card game. Will be the next Mac20Q Podcast Very enjoyable chat #
About to interview Bob for Mac20Q in a short while – we will talk about Macs and geeky things for a podcast #
RT @jchutchins: Discover the two secret weapons for aspiring writers! My guest post at Tor.com — http://bit.ly/7Hs30r #
@jchutchins Thanks for the RT – I enjoyed listening to the interview as I was editing it. Really appreciate the chance to talk with you. in reply to jchutchins #
7th Son Author @jchutchins talks to Writers20Q http://bit.ly/7uYpAk He talks about his experience of a mental institution & laughs about it #
Writers 20Q latest: Writers20Q Podcast 10 JC Hutchins #
Mac20Q Latest-: Mac user JC Hutchins the author of 7th Son the podcast novel talks http://bit.ly/6tr4sa/ #
Was interviewed this morning for a piece in the Catalonia Today 'Old Media' magazine. Will be a while though before it will appear in print #
RT @donmcallister: Breaking news – New eSATA based Drobo S and DroboElite – w00t! http://bit.ly/5nvM6G #
@jchutchins was a delight to listen to about writing & audiobook podcasts. you will love the interview with him on Writers20Q #
Just finished the editing of the interview for the next Writers20Q podcast. Talked with @jchutchins the Author of 7th Son now to podcast it #
RT @garrett_film: Signs of the apocalypse: New Moon tops opening day box office record set by Dark Knight http://su.pr/7V9xjP #

Talking to Bob Degrande about using a Mac

Posted on November 27, 2009 by admin

Bob has been a supporter of Mac20Q for some time and was telling me that he has listened right from the start of the podcast. Thanks Bob, good to have you along for the ride. He was the winner of one of our software giveaway competitions too!

A good chat was had and covered all the good stuff about being a Mac user. Bob is in the process of making a podcast about Bridge the card game. He started doing it as an audio podcast then decided to start again but with video. Makes more sense if you can see the cards, for this he has been using BoinxTV. I also have BoinxTV but it didn’t work on my iMac and when I looked at it working on the MacBook I decided that it was more for making Live TV programs with multiple cameras. I think I am better off using FinalCut Express or iMovie.

Whilst on the subject of FinalCut Express, I have still been working away to learn how to use the application and I am pleased that I am getting into it due to using Lynda .com with the excellent tutorials they have there. I also found FinalCutKing web site and there is a whole load of video tutorials on the IzzyVideo web site. All good quality stuff. I checked out YouTube also but the quality of the tutorials is much more variable and at the lower end of the scale.

I though it was funny that all the news sites have been talking about Applecare not being available to smokers because the filth that had accumulated in the machine had made it un safe for the technicians, Well smokers are disgusting creatures and deserve it if it is true. Blackened lungs and blackened insides of the computer. So there you go passive smoking is bad for computers too.

Back to Bob – he is certainly a die hard Mac user, having experience with Macs from the very early days, he did veer away during the dark days when Jobs was pushed aside but was happy to come back to the fold when Intel processors appeared in the Mac computers. Thanks to Bob for coming on Mac 20 Questions. I had a great time chatting with him and if you would like to be featured on Mac 20 Questions then why not contact me and we can make a date and time to record an interview.

Posted via email from Mac 20 Questions

JC Hutchins who wrote 7th Son is a Mac using author

Posted on November 23, 2009 by admin

Listen to the Podcast at Writers20Q

This morning I finished editing the interview that I did with J.C. Hutchins. I really had a great chat with him about the craft of writing and about the podcasting part of what he has done. Didn’t get to talk much about the fact that he uses the Mac to do his work in Pages from iWork and with Garageband for making his podcasts of his novels. Maybe I will have to get him back to talk just about being a Mac user.

I really enjoyed talking to him and also enjoyed listening to it again when I edited the interview. If you want to listen you will be able to find the podcast at the Writers20Qweb site. JC is a great guy and I teased him a bit about mental hospital experience, which he thought was very funny, he has an excellent sense of humour which is always good in a person.

The story that he podcasted is called 7th Son: Descent and is all about human cloning. It is a Science fiction, thriller adventure story and I enjoyed listening to the series.

He now has a book out called Personal Effects: Dark Art and is a fully immersive experience which is augmented by physical items included with the book to allow you to actually take an active role in the adventure. I have started to listen to the prequel story connected to this novel ‘Personal Effects – Sword of Blood‘ and have been enjoying it so far.

JC tells me about his mental institution experience and how he used it in his story about Zack the art therapist in Personal Effects : Sword of blood.

I asked him about how he works out the stories and the details behind the characters. While we were talking about the craft of writing we had a few laughs along the way.

Posted via email from Mac 20 Questions

Latest from Wizardgold 2009-11-22

Posted on November 22, 2009 by admin

RT @momentsoffilm: #scriptchat Elliot Grove said you should be able to send your character to tesco with a fiver & know what they'd buy #
RT @marrathon: Found article @TUAW: "33 things you don't need if you have an iPhone" http://bit.ly/1CNkS4 Nice! #
@paulmcgovern29 thanks I am thinking more about how I can use with video in reply to paulmcgovern29 #
I seem to have got my numbers mixed up – I think this should be Quick Ti… (YouTube http://bit.ly/5a6WdC) #
@paulmcgovern29 What would you recommend I start with in Blender in order to start learning it? in reply to paulmcgovern29 #
@brightphotos Thanks for the RT Mr Brightphotos in reply to brightphotos #
Short screencast on Mac20Q showing a few Mac OSX keyboard tricks http://bit.ly/8iNBfd #
Mac20Q Latest-: Mac20QTip 10 Setting up keyboard shortcuts http://mac20q.com/2009/11/mac20qtip-10-setting-up-keyboard-shortcuts/ #
@JoshuaBurns I can only imagine – Not had to endure the agony of Windows movie maker here – Thanks goodness for iMovie and FinalCut Express in reply to JoshuaBurns #
VIDEO: Mac20QT 010 keyboard shortcuts http://tmogul.com/tweet/36lrl #
I uploaded a YouTube video — Mac20QT 010 keyboard shortcuts http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8FIQpqFq5w&feature=autoshare_twitter #
using Final Cut today to make the Mac20QTips 10 video podcast. More setting up than with iMovie but more control to be had #
@JoshuaBurns windows movie maker – that must have been painful after using FinalCut in reply to JoshuaBurns #
Thinking about the 2012 movie again today & thinking I am looking forward to seeing it again. Totally brilliant film #
@CaliLewis I have been following the photos of 'Stuck in Customs' on Flickr for some time & it is true he is brilliant @TreyRatcliff – super in reply to CaliLewis #
#FF @peterboodts: Another Belgian geek that is Well worth following here on twitter. #
#FF @filmcourage: Follow David & Karen on their Film talk show LA Talk Radio & they make films too. 'Night before the Wedding' #
#FF @gilesthurston: Well worth following this Mac geek from the UK. He is a seriously decent Geek #
#FF @jokeandbiagio: Follow this pair of reality TV makers. They are responsible for Scream Queens & Beauty and the Geek.Well worth following #
#FF @BlythCult: Follow the horror movie maker in New Zealand, be very scared to follow he is making another horror movie in January…. #
#FF @StefaanLesage: Belgian man into new media & using blogging, podcasting for education. Well worth following #
#FF @paulmcgovern29: great bloke in Northern Ireland to follow that is a Mac educationalist teaching & using media video, audio – the lot #
RT @Soeno: Google Docs only exists because Google is too cheap to pay for Microsoft Office. #
Podcaster @IconfessImaGeek was interviewed in Mac20Q Podcast 72 http://bit.ly/1fCNfW Pls RT #
@paulmcgovern29 When I have finished learning LiveType I will have a look at Blender – I have it and I have Lynda.com helping me for now in reply to paulmcgovern29 #
Just created a title for Mac20Q QuickTip videos in LiveType to use in Final Cut – Sweet #
When the dog has been exercised it will be time for some editing of interview audio with J.C. Hutchins the author of 7th Son #
Today's podcast listening while walking the dawg is Cranky Geeks. #
Earlier this month Andy McCaskey from SDR News talked about his Mac predilections & peccadilloes with Mac20Q http://bit.ly/4EJKCR #
Just got Voice Candy for Mac for free from tap tap tap. They're celebrating releasing Voices for iPhone http://bit.ly/i56Un #
@peterboodts The latest video she put up with her dancin in the street just shows how marvellously crazy she is in reply to peterboodts #
Saw the movie 2012 – Very good – had me on the edge of my seat a few times #
RT @macTweeter: Digg: Apple already working on Mac OS X 10.7 http://bit.ly/1hkIVL #
RT @indyfilm: First-time director Krasinski speaks about 'Brief Interviews' – Tufts Daily – http://bit.ly/dADkb #
Next after I have gone through the FinalCut videos I will look at the LiveType before moving on to Blender #
@Chance4321 from Lynda.com it is a site full of videos showing how to do things. Well produced and informative great to learn stuff quickly in reply to Chance4321 #
Still working my way through the Lynda Movies for FinalCut Express – got to the titling and text manipulation section. Makes Final Cut easy #
I subscribed to ijustine's channel on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/user/ijustine?feature=autoshare_twitter #
@xxloverxx Go for listening to Elaine – she is funny with it in reply to xxloverxx #
@brightphotos Thanks for the RT about the confessions of a Geek in Milton Keynes in Podcast 72 of Mac20Q in reply to brightphotos #
The Podcasts I listened to to day were BagelTech News, MacCraic, Buz out Loud & a bit of Mac Break Weekly. Good podcast from Ewan -bagel man #
There will be more Mac20Q screencasts coming your way soon. What would you like to see in a screencast? #
Loving the Lynda movies to teach me FinalCut. Well worth it to get up and running quickly – Piles of good wee tips in there. #
Confessing to being a Geek to the Mac 20 Questions interrogator http://bit.ly/1fCNfW Alert – Serious Geekyness exposed in Milton Keynes #
RT @indyfilm: Interview: Werner Herzog's Bad Lieutenant Producer Alan Polsky – First Showing (blog) – http://bit.ly/dADkb #
I subscribed to StefaanLesage's channel on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/user/StefaanLesage?feature=autoshare_twitter #
@StefaanLesage There are some good Final Cut tutorials over at finalcutking.com too in reply to StefaanLesage #
@StefaanLesage Thanks – I will go and have a look at @izzyVideo in reply to StefaanLesage #
Noticing some differences between FinalCut Express & FinalCut Studio. The colour correction is handled differently FCP has 3 way col correct #
Busy watching videos from Lynda.com to help me learn quickly all about FinalCutExpress. Very good way to learn stuff fast #
@BlythCult podcasts are going well – good luck with the new horror film. When will you start filming in reply to BlythCult #
Having fun with FinalCut Express adding extra filters & stuff. Taking some time to get in to it #
Back from my Catalan class. The teacher makes us work. I understand a lot of it but I need more vocabularySo I bought a CAT/ENG dictionary #
@jokeandbiagio confessed to being Geeks – http://bit.ly/20se4e Would you confess to being a Geek?
I know it is true !!
Thanks guys in reply to jokeandbiagio #
@aguskrw1 Thanks for the info – You are a scholar and a gentleman !! in reply to aguskrw1 #
Twitter doesn't seem very responsive today. It's like trying to swim in molasses syrup wearing a fat suit #
You may go direct to the Podcast 72 from Mac20Q http://bit.ly/20se4e Would you confess to being a Geek ? #
http://bit.ly/1fCNfW @iconfessimageek Fesses up to Mac20Q about his Mac Habits. What does he do and how does he do it? #
http://bit.ly/1fCNfW @IConfessImaGeek confesses to Mac20Q about being a man in make up. – Suits you Sir! Talks mainly about using a Mac tho #
Exporting out the latest Mac20Q podcast in which I am talking to @iconfessimageek Interesting Mac bloke from England #
RT @Minervity: 20 Ways to Stimulate Your Own Creativity – http://bit.ly/4m61X9 #
RT @BlythCult: This is mind blowing stuff, well done Andrew, gore- a -plenty ! http://bit.ly/1s0f8M #
Winans – INK deserves a John Cassavetes Award Nomination – http://ping.fm/DPoGp – Support the underdog! #
@gilesthurston I got a Topify invite today also – I had forgotten that that I had asked for one in reply to gilesthurston #
I subscribed to FinalCutKing's channel on YouTube http://bit.ly/4R7vU #
@FinalCutKing You have some good tutorials there for FinalCut. Was looking for the one with the speed changes to the kung fu girl in reply to FinalCutKing #
Listening to The MacCast today & thinking that Adam would be the best host of MacBreak Weekly. He knows his stuff & is more Mac than Leo #
Checking out the slip, slide, ripple and roll – All part of the Final Cut editing. Enjoying getting in to it !! #
@paulmcgovern29 I am looking at it now – I have to work a project with some real footage to get to grips with it I think in reply to paulmcgovern29 #
FinalCutExpress installed & it is time to have a play soon. time to get down & dirty with it LOL #
@MikeDowswell Thanks OK then because I edit all interviews to remove the errrs and ummmms & other bits that shouldn't be there #
@MikeDowswell I did – Would you like to be interviewed and featured on Video20Q too? in reply to MikeDowswell #
RT @filmutopia: An infinite number of monkeys, given infinite time, will throw infinite amounts of shit. #
@filmutopia – @MikeDowswell Hi there – The real David Allen is here !! LOL in reply to filmutopia #

Keyboard shortcut tricks on Mac OSX

Posted on November 21, 2009 by admin

You know when you turn on the caps lock and type in a pile of text then have to either type in again or find a way to change it. How about if you were to turn off the Caps Lock Key, you know you hardly ever use it. Seems that it is more there to annoy than to be useful. Well in this video I show you how to turn off the Caps Lock.

See how you can set up active corners that will work with a modifier key so that it doesn’t just annoy you when you are trying to something in one of the active corners, like hit the Apple in the menu bar at top left.

I made this video with ScreenFlow to capture the screen and narrate, then I put it in Final Cut Express to set it up. It is really the first project I have set up in Final Cut so I was pleased that it went so well. I have been using Lynda.com to learn how to use Final Cut. It cost $25 to get Lynda for a month and I would say that with the quality of the screencasts it is well worth it. I have been doing the TrueType lessons as well as Final Cut.

I have been amazed by the capabilities of LiveType and being able to do some round trip editing between it and FinalCut Express. I have opened a Live Type section in FinalCut Express – gone in and changed it, saved it and returned to Final cut to see it updated ready for action.

Here is the Video and if you want to see in High Definition then go to the YouTube site to watch it in 1280 by 720

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Mac20Q Podcast 72 Confessing a British view of Mac technology

Posted on November 17, 2009 by admin

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (33.6MB)

Today I am talking to a guy that nearly confessed to being a makeup guy, you know lipstick and blusher and all that, but did confess to being a geek. Unfortunately his wife is not a Mac person yet but he is working on her, I tell him to get out the thumbscrews. His son aged five though is a computer user with a laptop of his own.

David does have an iMac 20 inch model and is a recent switcher. He got drawn into the Mac world with iPods and moved into it with a white Macbook, he has moved on to a later model MacBook though. He is a firm believer in AppleCare. I have not had AppleCare on any of my Macs but he has got his moneys’ worth out of it.

We talk about Boxee and Plex, I don’t use those because I can’t get the best out of it because I live in Spain. I just wish I could use the BBC iPlayer, I may have to get something that will hide my IP address.

I talk about getting a satellite box from Elgato which will allow me to save things to watch later. He has a Sanyo Xacti video camcorder and loves using iMovie to make professional looking DVDs for the family.

He has his own podcast and is on episode 14 at the moment. He said the latest was going to be about Christmas presents for the Geek in your life.

David confesses to being an inbox zero type and also to having been outside the Milton Keynes Apple Store at 4am in the morning to get an iPhone. He uses Tweetie two and uses Brizzly which is a web based twitter client. There was a Twitter client in the latest MacHeist, Twitterific

Hooray I finally got my hands on Final Cut Express, Only took 2 weeks to get here from Birmingham to Spain. There is a chance that it was in the post office here for a few days because I didn’t get the note to say it was in the post office to collect. Often the post person is completely useless putting the post in the wrong box. Some of the house owners don’t check their post for months because they don’t live here – they live in Holland or Germany. Then when they do check and find a letter or whatever that is not theirs, they just dump it rather than put in the right box

Grrrr !!

Ah well I have it now just because I called to correos and asked if they had anything for me, or it would have probably sat there for a few more days or weeks. I still am happy to have saved 70 euro by buying off the Apple Store site in the UK rather than getting from the Apple Store Spain.

As soon as I had installed FinalCut Express I had to download a 180 mb to update it to the latest. I will talk more about how it is going in a blog post and podcast.

Mac20Q Blog & Podcast

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