Better Offline: Monologue - The Tech I Actually Like Hosted by Ed Zitron | Released April 25, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling monologue episode of Better Offline, host Ed Zitron takes a refreshing detour from his usual critical stance on the tech industry to highlight the technological innovations and gadgets that he genuinely appreciates. This episode, titled "The Tech I Actually Like," delves into how specific technologies have positively impacted his life, particularly in overcoming personal challenges and enhancing his daily routines.

Ed Zitron's Personal Journey with Technology

Ed begins by reflecting on his previously negative outlook on technology, attributing it to his struggles with dyspraxia, severe ADHD, and social anxiety. However, he acknowledges that technology has been instrumental in enabling him to thrive despite these challenges.

"Tech has made me who I am, enabling me, a man with a coordinational disability, dyspraxia, if you're curious, severe ADHD and a good amount of social anxiety in the past, well, it allowed me to thrive." [00:31]

Daily Tech Routines and Gear

Ed shares a detailed overview of his daily tech setup, emphasizing convenience and efficiency:

• Moonlander ZSA Split Keyboard: Ed appreciates its ergonomic design that supports wrist health by keeping his hands separate while typing.

  "It's good for the wrist because you're not moving them around." [02:15]

• Apple Magic Trackpad and Samsung OLED Monitor: His expansive 49-inch Samsung OLED monitor paired with an Apple Magic Trackpad creates a seamless and productive workspace. The Escrowno Dock allows him to effortlessly switch between home and travel setups with his MacBook Pro.

  "I really like it when I travel between New York and Vegas to just be able to slot the thing in and have the same setup." [03:45]

Appreciation for Anker’s Gallium Nitride (GaN) Technology

Ed expresses admiration for Anker's use of Gallium Nitride (GaN) in their chargers and batteries, which allows for smaller, more powerful charging solutions.

"GAN lets you put way more power in the much smaller profile, meaning that you can now get chargers that are dramatically smaller that can fast charge your iPhone or your iPad or even your MacBook Pro." [04:30]

He highlights the practicality of Anker’s products, such as the built-in cables that eliminate the need for extra cords, aligning with his preference for minimalism.

Travel Essentials: Pac 25L Travel Duffel

Despite the episode's tech focus, Ed brings attention to the Pac 25L travel duffel, praising its functionality for frequent travelers.

"It fits underneath the seat in front of you on Southwest. It's able to fit a lot of crap, has lots of slots for your laptop, and generally feels comfortable over your shoulder." [07:00]

Connected Fitness: Tonal and Fight Camp

A significant portion of Ed's monologue is dedicated to his fitness journey, facilitated by cutting-edge fitness technology:

• Tonal: This wall-mounted exercise machine offers interactive workouts with magnetic resistance and personalized feedback through its built-in camera. Ed credits Tonal with transforming his physical health, allowing him to lose weight and gain muscle.

  "Tonal also has cool shit like eccentric mode where they add more weight on the eccentric movement of the exercise." [09:20]

  "It's possibly my favorite piece of tech ever made. It just works." [11:00]

• Fight Camp: Complementing his strength training, Fight Camp provides punch pattern trackers and offers a variety of classes that keep his cardio routine engaging.

  "Fight camp, which puts you got patterns trackers in the wraps. And yeah, they've got great classes." [11:45]

Building Connections Through Technology

Beyond gadgets, Ed emphasizes the invaluable human connections he has forged online. Platforms like Twitter, Reddit, and Blue Sky have allowed him to build meaningful friendships that have significantly improved his social life and mental well-being.

"It's such joy to have connecting with others about just about anything... Almost every single friendship I've made has started online." [12:30]

He shares a heartfelt story about his friendship with Ben Rudolph, who played a pivotal role in supporting him through depression and overtraining injuries.

"Had the Internet not existed, I'd never have got to share my fitness journey with him and probably never got out of the hole I was in." [12:05]

Balancing Gratitude with Critique

While Ed expresses deep gratitude for the positive aspects of technology, he remains critical of the broader tech industry's practices, specifically pointing out issues like Apple's App Store policies that he believes fuel unethical industries.

"And I realize I am being monopolized. You do not need to tell me… Apple's app store is horrifying. I believe that they are responsible for fueling truly evil industries." [06:15]

Ed conveys that his critiques stem from a place of wanting to preserve the beneficial aspects of technology that have enriched his life.

"True cynicism doesn't come from a place of emptiness. It comes from a determination to defend that which makes us feel whole." [13:00]

Conclusion and Gratitude

Ed wraps up the monologue by expressing immense gratitude towards his listeners, the Better Offline team, and the online communities that have supported him. He attributes much of his personal growth and happiness to the positive use of technology in his life.

"I well up with the love in my heart for their kindness and their generosity that they continually show me." [13:00]

He celebrates the podcast’s recent Webby Award win, thanking listeners and team members for their unwavering support.

"Thank you to Matt Osowski, Robert Evans, Sophie Lichterman, Ava Warrender, Daniel Goodman, Ian Johnson, and everyone who works on this show." [13:10]

Key Takeaways

• Personal Empowerment: Technology can be a powerful tool for overcoming personal challenges and enhancing quality of life.
• Appreciation of Quality Tech Products: Investing in reliable and efficient gadgets can streamline daily routines and improve productivity.
• Fitness and Health: Connected fitness technologies like Tonal and Fight Camp offer interactive and personalized workout experiences that can lead to significant health improvements.
• Human Connections: Online platforms foster meaningful relationships that can provide essential support and companionship.
• Balanced Perspective: While celebrating the positives, it is crucial to remain critical of the tech industry's ethical practices to advocate for a better technological future.

Notable Quotes

• "Tech has made me who I am… it allowed me to thrive." — Ed Zitron [00:31]
• "GAN lets you put way more power in the much smaller profile." — Ed Zitron [04:30]
• "It's possibly my favorite piece of tech ever made. It just works." — Ed Zitron [11:00]
• "True cynicism doesn't come from a place of emptiness. It comes from a determination to defend that which makes us feel whole." — Ed Zitron [13:00]

Better Offline continues to explore the intricate relationship between technology and society, offering listeners a nuanced perspective that celebrates innovation while advocating for ethical growth within the tech industry.