I’ve known Jim and Kathy for almost 10 years and we sat in their kitchen and had a discussion about the conference, reasons to attend the conference, and more.

This year’s conference will take place May 31st – June 2nd at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center. Pre-registration is closed right now but you can still register at the door for one or more days. Family rates are available.

For more information visit leahconference.com

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If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to feedback@thewiredhomeschool.com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers. Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs. Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs

Music: Poofy Reel by Kevin Macleod.

The Wired Homeschool is a proud member of the Tech Podcast Network. For more family-friendly tech podcasts visit techpodcasts.com

Before I begin my review of Covenant Eyes I want to be very clear: I am a Covenant Eyes affiliate. I’m an affiliate because I believe they have a great product. However, my relationship with Covenant Eyes in no way will prevent me from speaking truthfully about their product.

I’ve written a lot about Covenant Eyes in the past, mostly on my old blog/podcast Jesus Geek. I’m a big advocate for their software so it will be difficult for me to control my enthusiasm.

But before I get into the full review, I’d like to mention a sponsor of the podcast: Scholaric. Scholaric is the simplest homeschool record keeping system I’ve ever seen. Fewer settings. No unnecessary features and highly customizable.  You can start by adding 1 student and course the start planning.  It even works on your iPad.  That’s right!  Don’t believe me?  Check it out today and get a 3 month free trial. When you go to the site click on the button for the 15 day free trial and you’ll receive 3 months free. That’s scholaric.com/wiredhs2012. With Scholaric simple homeschool record keeping is just a click away!

What is Covenant Eyes Mobile?

Let’s start with the basics.  Covenant Eyes is a browser that records your browsing habits on an iOS device and rates the “maturity” of the sites you visit.  It works along with the desktop version of the software so once you have everything configured for your home computer you don’t need to configure the mobile browser.  The mobile versions of the software are free with your monthly subscription to Covenant Eyes.  It can be installed on multiple devices for no extra charge.

If you’re interested in knowing more about how Covenant Eyes works, visit their website.  I want to focus on the browser for iOS rather than the service itself which I’ve reviewed in the past (check out the link above to my old blog).

How it Works

Once the app is installed enter your username and password and then start browsing.  That’s it!  Every time you visit a website it will be recorded and reviewed by Covenant Eyes and rated.  You and/or your accountability partner will be able to see on the accountability report the “safety level” of the site.  You can then use this to start a discussion about your Internet usage.

The browser works just like other third-party browsers on iOS and just like all the others it is also limited by the SDK.  Bookmarks, multiple pages, zoom, etc. are all available but the much desired options to make it the default browser, import Safari bookmarks, and share links or add them to the homepage aren’t there.  It’s frustrating but that is how Apple rolls.

There are two features that I really think Covenant Eyes needs in the iOS version.  First, a panic button similar to the one found in X3 Watch.  Being able to get a notification that you’re headed to a potentially offensive site (knowingly or unknowingly) is a great option.  Second, it should require you to disable Safari.  There is a reminder to do so but it really should just require that restriction to be enabled.

Covenant Eyes mobile has come a long way from its first release when it was slow, buggy, and crashed.  It’s a more mature app now and I think with a few more refinements it could almost be the “perfect” app for mobile accountability.

Covenant Eyes

Cost: Free with Covenant Eyes subscription ($8.99/mo.)
Category: Utilities
Language: English
Rated: 17+
Requirements: Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. Requires iOS 3.1.3 or later.

End Notes

I am running audio spots at the end of each podcast for the New York State LEAH Homeschooling Conference.  You’ll hear these at the end of every podcast up until the conference.  If you or someone you know is on a homeschooling conference committee, feel free to contact me about having your audio advertisement included in the podcast.

Kindle Fire Unboxing Video
5 Reason to Buy a Kindle Fire Instead of an iPad

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If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to feedback@thewiredhomeschool.com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers. Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs. Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs

Music: Poofy Reel by Kevin Macleod.

The Wired Homeschool is a proud member of the Tech Podcast Network. For more family-friendly tech podcasts visit techpodcasts.com

Last week I reviewed Safe Eyes, a filtered browser available for iOS devices that makes a good substitute for Safari.  This week I’m covering X3watch: an accountability and filtering tool that keeps a record of your browsing activities.

X3 Watch is a service of XXXChurch.com, a “non-profit organization that exists to help people of all ages who are being assaulted by pornography.”

Before I get into the full review, I’d like to mention a sponsor of the podcast: Scholaric. Scholaric is the simplest homeschool record keeping system I’ve ever seen. Fewer settings. No unnecessary features and highly customizable. Check it out today and get a 3 month free trial. When you go to the site click on the button for the 15 day free trial and you’ll receive 3 months free. That’s scholaric.com/wiredhs2012. With Scholaric simple homeschool record keeping is just a click away!

No Safari for You!

X3 Watch Warning

The very first thing you will notice about X3 Watch besides the 17+ rating (I’ll address that later) is that it will not work if Safari is enabled on your device.  This means that in order to use X3 Watch you must enable iOS restrictions and disable Safari.  Of all the features I think this is the best.  It separates X3 Watch from the herd by requiring Safari to be disabled.  Since its main function is reporting and not filtering, this is a wise move on the part of the X3 Watch developers.

There is also a desktop version of X3 Watch so naturally you’d expect there to be some way to synchronize your settings between the two.  There isn’t.  Other than using the same account for reporting, you need to enter all the necessary setup data into the X3 Watch app.  Let’s take a look at the setup process.

When you first launch X3 Watch you’ll be prompted to disable Safari.  If you don’t know how, there are instructions are only a tap away.  Once you’ve disabled Safari you can begin the registration process.  Fill in all the appropriate fields and begin browsing.

As with any other browser, the features are limited by the iOS SDK.  I won’t rehash that here but you can read my comments about that in my review of Safe Eyes mobile.  You’ll find all the usual features: bookmarks, multiple windows, zoom, etc.  There is one other feature that I think you’ll like too.  If you attempt to visit a site that X3 Watch recognizes a porn, it will warn you and give you an opportunity to either bug out or continue.  This is a really nice feature and helps to keep you in check.

X3 Watch Falls Short

There are some glaring problems with X3 Watch that I think make that app a poor choice for children or people who struggle with pornography addiction.  First, I never received an accountability report.  There’s even an option to send a report out and that didn’t work either.  I checked my spam folder and couldn’t find the reports anywhere.  Second, I was able to change who I send my reports to, thereby completely defeating the app.  No email was sent to the previous accountability partner indicating that the settings had been changed.  That means that your child can go into the app and change the settings and continue browsing the Internet without any of the benefits of the application (except a pop-up warning).  At the very least, there should be a PIN required in order to change the settings.  Until these two flaws are corrected I cannot recommend X3 Watch for use on your child’s iOS device.

X3watch

Cost: $6.99
Category: Utilities
Language: English
Rated: 17+
Requirements: Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. Requires iOS 4.3 or later.

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If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to feedback@thewiredhomeschool.com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers. Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs. Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs

Music: Poofy Reel by Kevin Macleod.

The Wired Homeschool is a proud member of the Tech Podcast Network. For more family-friendly tech podcasts visit techpodcasts.com

This week I’m starting a series on mobile internet filtering and accountability. I’m going to review 3 products that will help protect your children when using an iDevice. Some of these products are also available on Android and I’ll provide a rundown of those features at the end of the series.

First up is Safe Eyes Mobile from Internetsafety.com available for iPod Touch, iPhone, and iPad. It even works on 1st-generation iPods and iPhones. Safe Eyes is a replacement browser for the native Safari browser and filters your Internet activity as opposed to just monitoring and reporting on your Internet activity.

Before I get into the full review, I’d like to welcome a sponsor to the podcast: Scholaric. Scholaric is the simplest homeschool record keeping system I’ve ever seen. Fewer settings. No unnecessary features and highly customizable. Check it out today and get a 3 month free trial. When you go to the site click on the button that for the 15 day free trial and you’ll receive 3 months free. That’s scholaric.com/wiredhs2012. With Scholaric simple homeschool record keeping is just a click away!

OK, back to Safe Eyes. Like I said earlier, Safe Eyes is intended to replace Safari for iOS in order to provide filtering. Due to the iOS SDK, there is no way to install an app that monitors all Internet activity (this is something you’re going to hear a lot about from me).

Safer Than Safari

For casual browsing on the Internet Safe Eyes is a suitable replacement, especially for children. It doesn’t lag at all.  I used it for a solid hour with multiple tabs open and it didn’t crash.

The first screen you see after launching Safe Eyes

If you use the home version of Safe Eyes it can also enforce time limits across devices, and syncs settings across PC, Mac, and iOS. That means no having to reconfigure the filter for each device.

When you launch the app for the first time you’re prompted to either create a new account or use an existing account. If you don’t already have an account you can create one on your device. Once you’re done with the account creation process you won’t see the screen again.

From there you’re prompted to either start browsing or disable Safari. If you’re setting this up for a child I highly recommend disabling Safari. You’ll then be provided with instructions on how to do that. It can’t be done automatically because it’s not supported in the iOS SDK.

Most of the features I’ve come to expect in a mobile browser are present: multiple windows, bookmarks, share links via email, pinch to zoom, double-tap to zoom, etc. I was able to play embedded YouTube videos and audio files on multiple websites too.  I had a problem logging into one social media site but it’s not one I use regularly and there’s an app for it.

Denied!

Despite the negative comments I’ve seen about Safe Eyes in the App Store, I experienced none of the crashing or errors that others complained about. Some of the complaints were about features that weren’t present. Some of these features might be helpful but aren’t permitted because of the iOS SDK. Let’s address some of those now.

Apple iOS SDK Woes

• No device-wide filtering of Internet capable apps
• Cannot import bookmarks
• Cannot assign Safe Eyes as your default browser
• Cannot click links in email and have them open in Safe Eyes

These are all the things the browser doesn’t do because the SDK doesn’t allow it. Apple has really ham-strung developers when it comes to this. As a result, you need to really be careful of the apps installed on your child’s device.

Hidden Browsers

Many apps have hidden browsers in them. Twitter, Facebook, GMail and Google+ are are just a few that I can think of off the top of my head. This means that your child could potentially access explicit material and circumvent the the filtering provided by Safe Eyes. Again, this isn’t a knock against the app because Apple doesn’t provide a way in their SDK for every Internet connection to be monitored.  Get used to hearing this from me because when I review the other two products in this series I’ll sound like a broken record.

One more thing

Safe Eyes Mobile hasn’t been updated since August 2010. This was a little disheartening because it seems like the app has been abandoned. I do hope to see a refresh of this app soon that would feature tabbed browsing for the iPad (tabbed browsing is available on the iPad), the ability to share links via Twitter (since it’s baked into iOS), and a print option.  The more “Safari-like” these alternative browsers become the more likely they’ll be adopted.

Recommendation

I can confidently recommend Safe Eyes for parents who want to be sure their children don’t accidentally come across explicit material on their portable device. Used with iOS restrictions and iTunes parental controls, Safe Eyes is a strong addition to the homeschooler’s digital tool belt for protecting their family.  The one-time price is great if you have an alternate filtering solution for your desktop and it integrates well with its desktop counterpart.

Safe Eyes Mobile

Cost: $14.99
Category: Utilities
Language: English
Rated 12+
Requirements: Compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. Requires iOS 3.0 or later

Have you used Safe Eyes Mobile? Perhaps you’re using the desktop version. I’d like to hear your impressions about the product. Leave a comment below and give me your take on Safe Eyes Mobile.

Note: You can save 20% to 40% on Safe Eyes for your desktop at Homeschool Buyer’s Co-op. Offer Expires 05-31-2012 at 11:59 pm Pacific.

Listener feedback

I received a Homeschool convention report from Michael Prince of The Super Secret Podcast for Young Husbands. He attended his first homeschooling convention and shared his experience.  Listen to the podcast to hear what Michael had to say.  Have you been to a convention too?  Planning to go to one?  I’d really like to hear from you too.  Share your experience in the comments below or via voice or email.

I received a great review of the podcast on iTunes by Tina S.  She writes:

I love that here is a religious homeschooler that doesn’t saturate his podcast with religious content. Whether that’s intentional (realizing there do exist non-Christian homeschoolers) or not, I really appreciate this, as a non-religious homeschooler.

Also really like the way John talks…its very natural and not put-on like many other podcasters. He is very real and always has tons of great ideas and info and resources to share! He really knows his stuff. No random babbling here…John obviously very thoughtfully plans out these podcasts. I really enjoy The Wired Homeschool. There’s so very few homeschool podcasts to begin with…even less that are actual high quality and not jam-packed with religous content. This one is on my short list of excellent homeschool podcasts for even the secular homeschooler (like me!)

Thanks to Tina for the review.  Listen to the podcast to hear my response.  Have you left a review yet? I really would like to hear what you have to say about the podcast.

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If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to feedback@thewiredhomeschool.com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers. Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs. Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs

Music: Poofy Reel by Kevin Macleod.

The Wired Homeschool is a proud member of the Tech Podcast Network. For more family-friendly tech podcasts visit techpodcasts.com

The Apple TV allows owners of iPods, iPhones, and iPads to stream media from their devices to their television. It also includes a number of other features like Netflix and YouTube integration.

In part four of this series on iTunes and iOS, I’ll be covering AppleTV parental controls and wrapping up this series. Joel Dittmer reminded me via Twitter about the Apple TV and its parental controls.

Just like other Apple devices the Apple TV’s parental controls are easy to configure. They’re not as granular as other devices but if you’re using them in conjunction with iTunes parental controls then they should suffice.

To access the parental controls on Apple TV goto Settings >> General >> Parental Controls. When prompted enter a passcode. Next you can configure whether to Show, Ask, or Hide options. Ask will prompt for your passcode. Don’t forget to head down to Purchase & Rental and configure it to Ask or Hide so that the little ones can’t view previews for “General Audiences”.

Some of the options in the Apple TV parental controls

These settings tie in nicely with parental controls and restrictions for other iOS devices and really helps to provide a safer experience for your children. With supervision and these controls in place you can expose your children to great technology without exposing them to objectionable content.

Now that I’ve covered how to manage restrictions and parental controls on a myriad of Apple devices and iTunes I’d like to hear from you. Do you use iOS restrictions and parental controls in iTunes. Were you aware they existed before listening to the podcast or reading the blog posts? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Other items mentioned in the podcast:

App Review – Kids’ Dental Health
Learn to Solder with a Comic Book
Internet Danger on Mobile Phones [Infographic]
The Rise of Internet Addiction [Infographic]
Grant Imahara Shares His Passion for Science and Technology in Presentation at RPI

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If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to feedback@thewiredhomeschool.com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers. Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs. Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs

Music: Poofy Reel by Kevin Macleod.

The Wired Homeschool is a proud member of the Tech Podcast Network. For more family-friendly tech podcasts visit techpodcasts.com

Now back to business. In that 3 month hiatus I have received exactly 0 sticker orders I’ve requested. Apparently I’m not the only one not receiving sticker requests.

Now, this could be because I had multiple accounts and my address is on some kind of blacklist because I was abusing the site. Fine, I can accept that.

The thing that bothers me most is the deafening silence from GetGlue about the issue. If I am on a blacklist, why not let me know when I placed my sticker request? Some kind of notice would be nice.

If there’s a problem with the sticker shipments or fulfilling the orders, an update on the blog would be helpful too.

One of my biggest complaints about GetGlue when I was extremely active was the lack of communication with the users. We’re the reason GetGlue is able to secure these advertising deals (don’t be fooled — this is directed advertising) and seems to make sense that a little more transparency wouldn’t hurt.

This week’s podcast is an encore interview I did with Todd Wilson in 2007. You may notice an obvious difference in audio quality bit that can’t be helped.

It was recorded almost 5 years ago and the equipment I was using was pretty low-tech.

I will conclude the series on iOS and iTunes parental controls next week.

Additionally, I’m looking to interview organizers of homeschooling conventions. If you are one or you know one, send them my way! I’d like to do a series on conventions in May.

About Todd Wilson

Todd Wilson, author of Help! I’m Married to a Homeschooling Mom and The Official Book of Homeschooling Cartoons, is a dad, writer, conference speaker, and former pastor. Todd’s humor and gut-honest realness have made him a favorite speaker at homeschool conventions across the country and a guest on Focus on the Family.

His articles have appeared in various magazines. Christianity Today also posts his weekly column (The Familyman Weekly) on their website.

Todd and his wife Debbie, along with their eight children spend several months of the year traveling the country encouraging moms and dads. His humor, realness, and straight talk to men (& women) have become his trademark.

WHS Encore – Interview with Todd Wilson | The Wired Homeschool j.mp/HT25m3

— The Wired Homeschool (@wiredhs) April 19, 2012

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If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to feedback@thewiredhomeschool.com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers. Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs. Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs

Music: Poofy Reel by Kevin Macleod.

The Wired Homeschool is a proud member of the Tech Podcast Network. For more family-friendly tech podcasts visit techpodcasts.com

If you own an iOS device of any kind (iPod/iPad/iPhone) you’ve probably got iTunes installed on on your home computer.  iTunes is Apple’s portal to managing content (music/videos/apps/books) on all their devices.  Whether you’re using iTunes on OS X or Windows, there are valuable tools at your disposal for managing the content you allow your children to download, view, and purchase.

In part three of this series on iTunes and iOS, I’ll be covering iTunes parental controls.  Parental controls go hand-in-hand with iTunes allowances and iOS restrictions.

I’ll be addressing iTunes 10 parental controls. for information about other versions of iTunes please see Apple’s website about iTunes parental controls.

Configuring iTunes Parental Controls

To access parental controls, Windows users should click Edit >> Preferences and Mac users should choose Preferences from the iTunes menu.

There really isn’t much here to configure but it does help with restricting the type of content available in iTunes. Just because you have restrictions enabled on a device doesn’t mean that the content is unavailable on your desktop or laptop.

You can choose to disable:

• Podcasts
• Radio
• iTunes Store
• Ping
• Shared Libraries

You can also enable content restrictions. First, pick the country’s rating system you want to use then select ratings for:

• Movies
• TV shows
• Apps

Finally, you can choose whether or not to allow explicit content. This may seem redundant but it is necessary because some unwanted content could slip through the cracks via podcasts and music.

WHS 43 – iTunes Parental Controls | j.mp/HzgJyH | Block unwanted content in iTunes

— The Wired Homeschool (@wiredhs) April 12, 2012

Additional topics

Apple has patched Mac OS 10.6 and up against the Flashback/Flashfake trojan
Several anti-virus companies have now released a removal tool for Flashback/Flashfake but Apple is still working on it.
Windows updates were released this week and every version is affected including third-party applications so make sure you get updated.
LastPass for iOS review
Help me find more homeschooling dads online

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If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to feedback@thewiredhomeschool.com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers. Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs. Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs

Music: Poofy Reel by Kevin Macleod.

The Wired Homeschool is a proud member of the Tech Podcast Network. For more family-friendly tech podcasts visit techpodcasts.com

If you own an iOS device of any kind (iPod/iPad/iPhone) you’ve probably got iTunes installed on on your home computer.  iTunes is Apple’s portal to managing content (music/videos/apps/books) on all their devices.  Whether you’re using iTunes on OS X or Windows, there are valuable tools at your disposal for managing the content you allow your children to download, view, and purchase.

In part two of this series on iTunes and iOS, I’ll be covering iOS restrictions.  Restrictions are important if you’re going to give your child an iTunes allowance because they help control the type of content available on their device. Next week I plan to cover iTunes parental controls.

To access restrictions tap Settings > General > Restrictions.  You will be prompted to enter a 4-digit pass code.  This should be different from the one you use to unlock the device, especially if you’re configuring restrictions for your children.

Once you’ve entered a pass code, you can choose to restrict access to the following applications and features on the device:

• Safari
• YouTube
• Camera (also disables FaceTime)
• FaceTime
• iTunes
• Ping
• Installing apps
• Deleting apps
• Multiplayer games in Game Center
• Adding friends in Game Center

Additionally, you can choose to prevent changes to the following settings/accounts:

• Location Services
• Accounts (disables changes to Mail, Contacts, Calendars, iCloud, and Twitter accounts)

Finally, prevent access to specific content types:

• Ratings (select the country in the ratings section to automatically apply the appropriate content ratings for that region)
• Music and podcasts
• Movies
• TV shows
• Apps
• In-App Purchases

iOS restrictions are an important p[art of managing your child's device.  Combine it with iTunes parental controls (which I'll discuss next week) and an iTunes allowance and you can be confident that you and your children will have a positive experience with portable technology.

Keep in mind that no system is fool-proof and that you must be aware of how your kids are using their devices and what kind of content they are consuming.

Other articles mentioned in this podcast:

App Review – Planets for iOS
Look Up for April 2012
What Happens in an Internet Minute [Infographic]

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If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to feedback@thewiredhomeschool.com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers. Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs. Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs

Music: Poofy Reel by Kevin Macleod.

The Wired Homeschool is a proud member of the Tech Podcast Network. For more family-friendly tech podcasts visit techpodcasts.com

WHS 42 – iOS Restrictions | bit.ly/HgxuDw | Control content and apps on your child’s iOS device

— John W. (@wiredhs) April 5, 2012

If you own an iOS device of any kind (iPod/iPad/iPhone) you’ve probably got iTunes installed on on your home computer.  iTunes is Apple’s portal to managing content (music, videos, apps, books) on all their devices.  Whether you’re using iTunes on OS X or Windows, there are valuable tools at your disposal for managing the content you allow your children to download, view, and purchase.

In part one of this series on iTunes and iOS, I’ll be covering allowances.  Specifically, how you can give your child a monthly iTunes allowance and prevent them from draining your checking account with purchases. Future topics in this series will include iOS restrictions and iTunes parental controls.

Prerequisites

1. Install the latest version of iTunes on your computer.
2. You need an iTunes Store account (Apple ID) with a credit card associated with it. If you don’t have one, create a new account.
3. You will need to create an Apple ID for your child. That means they need an email address. If your child isn’t ready for email then create a GMail, Yahoo Mail, or Hotmail acount and forward it to your own email address.

Setup an iTunes Allowance Account

1. Open iTunes and got to the Store.
2. Click “Buy iTunes Gifts” from the Quick Links section on the right.
3. Click “Set up an allowance now” (you may need to scroll down).
4. Enter the requested information on the page.
5. Enter your password when/if requested.

Configure the iOS Device

1. Open the App Store on your iOS device.
2. Tap “Featured” at the bottom and scroll down.
3. Tap Sign In.
4. Enter the Apple ID with the monthly allowance.

Additional Considerations

1. When setting up an allowance, you are agreeing to give your child between $10-$50 per month to spend in iTunes. You may consider a one-time gift card as an alternative.
2. You should consider enabling content restrictions on the device and in iTunes (these topics will be covered in future podcasts).
3. No system is fool-proof so check what your kids are doing with their iOS device regularly.

Other things mentioned in this podcast

The Hunger Games – A Homeschool Dad’s Movie Review
Taming the Techno-Beast Review
App Review – Angry Birds Space

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If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to feedback@thewiredhomeschool.com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers. Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs. Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs

Music: Poofy Reel by Kevin Macleod.

The Wired Homeschool is a proud member of the Tech Podcast Network. For more family-friendly tech podcasts visit techpodcasts.com

No doubt you’ve probably already heard about Microsoft’s latest version of Windows, Windows 8, and the blessings or curses (depending upon your point of view) that come with Redmond’s latest operating system.

Windows 8 is being hailed as revolutionary and revolting by pundits all across the Internet. Depending upon your approach to desktop computing I understand both arguments. For everyday consumers this techno-babble causes FUD: Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt. Hopefully in this podcast I can assuage some of the FUD and give you the information you need to know in order to wade through the waters of Windows 8.

First let me start out by saying that this is not a “how-to” episode. I’m not going to tell you how to install Windows 8 nor am I going to provide any tips, tricks, or instructional material that pertains to Windows 8. This is a high-level overview of the new operating system based upon what I’ve seen myself. With that said, let’s begin…

What

Windows 8 is the upcoming operating system from Microsoft:

It’s Windows reimagined and reinvented from a solid core of Windows 7 speed and reliability. It’s an all-new touch interface. It’s a new Windows for new devices.

-Microsoft

Microsoft has placed a lot of emphasis on touch interfaces. Windows 8 will be available for ARM-based devices (most likely keyboard-less tablets). This means the “hub” of Windows is no longer the desktop but a start screen with tiles for accessing applications and features.

When

According to Bloomberg, work on Windows 8 will finish this Summer with an expected release date of October 2012. While this means that Microsoft and its partners will miss the back-to-school purchasing window (pun intended) it will allow for a large roll out just in time for the holiday shopping season when the majority of new PC purchases historically occur.

Where

Windows 8 Start Screen aka Metro

While there will be retail versions of Windows 8 available at retail outlets like Wal-mart, Best Buy, and Staples, most consumers will get Windows 8 with a new desktop, laptop, or tablet PC. I doubt there will be a downloadable version available on the release date but it wouldn’t surprise me is future updates come via a “Windows store”.

Should I upgrade to Windows 8?

No. Let me be clear: No. If buy a new computer (or tablet) and Windows 8 is available then moving to Windows 8 won’t be such a hassle. Upgrading your existing computer from Windows XP/Vista/7 is not something I’d advise for the average consumer.

Geeks like me will probably take the risk of upgrading our existing computers to Windows 8, after all, the latest OS is designed to run on today’s hardware. Unless you have a compelling reason to upgrade (like buying a new computer or having to support it for a job) I can think of no reason for you to upgrade.

Remember that quote from above? “It’s a new Windows for new devices.” Keep that in mind every time you ask yourself or if someone asks you if they should upgrade.

Windows 8 Charms

Most people won’t see Windows 8 until they buy a new computer and that’s OK. You’re not really missing out on any new technology. Windows 8 is based on the existing Windows 7 core but just has a new graphical user interface (GUI) that really takes advantage of touch devices. I suspect most people will first encounter Windows 8 on an inexpensive tablet they purchase.

The new “Metro” interface doesn’t really blend well with the desktop. The desktop is where average people spend their time on a Windows computer. Given the fact that you’re probably not going to update to the latest “Metro-style” apps, you’d be wasting your time upgrading.

Wait until you buy a new computer. If you just bought a new computer in the past few months you’re not really missing out on much and by the time you’re ready to upgrade Windows 9 will probably be in the hopper.

Other articles mentioned in the podcast:

• Good Posture is Important When Using a Tablet
• Homeschool Domination [Infographic]<.li>
• Homeschoolers May Not Be Eligible For Pell Grants

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If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to feedback@thewiredhomeschool.com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers. Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs. Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs

Music: Poofy Reel by Kevin Macleod.

The Wired Homeschool is a proud member of the Tech Podcast Network. For more family-friendly tech podcasts visit techpodcasts.com

I’ve talked in the past about how blogging can help your children (and you) in your homeschooling. Today, I’m sharing the ways which podcasting can help your student in their education.

First, listening to podcasts can broaden your child’s learning experience.  Most podcasts are free and most people don’t profit from their podcasting.  That means you’re listening to people who are passionate enough about a topic to share their knowledge for free.  It gives your child a fresh perspective on topics.  You can find many podcasts about various topics in the iTunes store.

Second, by podcasting your child can learn the ins and outs of audio production, social media, and how Internet technology works.  Podcasting is not something every family may want to do but it can be a great learning experience.  Your child will have to organize his thoughts, research a topic, and develop his speaking skills.  It’s a great learning experience.

If you don’t know how to podcast you can learn how to podcatst for free with Cliff Ravenscraft’s Learn How To Podcasting 101 course.  It’s a great starter course and will teach you eveything you need to know to start podcasting.

If you start a podcast, be sure top share your podcast in the comments below.

Other things mentioned in the podcast:

Do you have the new iPad? Did you wait in line? I blogged about the line at the local Apple Store.
Intel AppUp Store is not ready for primetime.
Bill Maher vs. Rick Santorum on homeschooling.

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If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to feedback@thewiredhomeschool.com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers. Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs. Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs

Music: Poofy Reel by Kevin Macleod.

The Wired Homeschool is a proud member of the Tech Podcast Network. For more family-friendly tech podcasts visit techpodcasts.com

On Wednesday, Apple announced their “new iPad”. Rumors and speculation before the actual announcement were abundant. Most of the guesses about the technology in the new device were correct but the gadget soothsayers got the name all wrong. Rather than name their latest “post-PC” device the iPad 3 or iPad HD Apple chose to simply call it “The new iPad”. After the astonishing statistics about the iPad, iPhone, and iPod, Tim Cook revealed the new tablet to thunderous applause and the applause was merited.

Apple’s “new iPad” sets the standard for educational technology. Tablet makers around the world should take notice of Cupertino’s grab for the classroom whether it’s in a educational institution or in the home.

There’s no doubt this is a great device. With a display resolution greater than the average HD television and a dual-core processor “the new iPad” is as revolutionary as Apple claims, perhaps even “resolutionary”.

With the new processing power and brilliant display at their disposal, app developers are sure to develop some beautiful apps that take full advantage of the increase in processor power and display resolution.

One piece of technology was missing, however: Siri. The voice-activated assistant present on the iPhone 4S isn’t available on “the new iPad” but there seems to have been a nod to the technology with the new voice dictation feature. Perhaps we’ll see Siri on the iPad in iOS 6.

Rather than run down the list of specifications, I want to talk a little about how this can impact homeschoolers. With iWork and iLife available on the new iPad the need for a second computer or budget laptop is essentially eliminated. Parents can purchase an iPad for their children rather than a laptop. It’s easier to use a much more portable. iWork and iLife allow your children (and you) to create documents, presentations, spreadsheets, and more on a device that you don’t need to worry about crashing or backing up (if you use iCloud).

Apple iWork for iPad

iTunesU and iBooks add even more educational value with free books and college-level courses for your child. The growing library of interactive books and courses available for free provides an increasing array of educational gold waiting to be mined by you and your children.

If that wasn’t enough, there’s a cornucopia of educational apps that you can purchase or install for free that tailor to various educational levels and styles. I’m amazed each time I look in the app store by the fantastic educational apps available for the iPad. It seems like the options are limitless.

What do you think? Would you get an iPad instead of a laptop or desktop as a secondary computing device?

Some of the new iPad Specifications:

• Height: 9.50 inches (241.2 mm)
• Width: 7.31 inches (185.7 mm)
• Depth: 0.37 inch (9.4 mm)
• Weight: 1.44 pounds (652 g)
• Retina display
• 9.7-inch (diagonal) LED-backlit glossy widescreen Multi-Touch display with IPS technology
• 2048-by-1536-pixel resolution at 264 pixels per inch (ppi)
• Fingerprint-resistant oleophobic coating
• Support for display of multiple languages and characters simultaneously
• Dual-core Apple A5X custom-designed, high-performance, low-power system-on-a-chip with quad-core graphics
• Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n)
• Bluetooth 4.0 technology
• Wi-Fi + 4G for AT&T model: LTE (700, 2100 MHz); UMTS/HSPA/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA (850, 900, 1900, 2100 MHz); GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz)
• Wi-Fi + 4G for Verizon model: LTE (700 MHz); CDMA EV-DO Rev. A (800, 1900 MHz); UMTS/HSPA/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA (850, 900, 1900, 2100 MHz); GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz)
• Capacities – 16, 32, & 64 GB
• 5-megapixel iSight camera
• Video recording, HD (1080p) up to 30 frames per second with audio
• Video stabilization
• FaceTime camera with VGA-quality photos and video at up to 30 frames per second

Full iPad specifications available at Apple’s website.

Also mentioned in this podcast: Stack the States and Stack the Countries review, Intel’s AppUp service (full review coming soon), my plans to attend the Northeast Homeschool Convention, and I’m seeking sponsorship to attend the Blogworld and New Media Expo in New York City. Todd Wilson interview.

Wanted to call this episode “OMG! New iPad is hawesome!” – thewiredhomeschool.com/38 The Resolutionary New Homeschooling iPad

— John W. (@wiredhs) March 9, 2012

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If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to feedback@thewiredhomeschool.com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers. Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs. Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs

Music: Poofy Reel by Kevin Macleod.

The Wired Homeschool is a proud member of the Tech Podcast Network. For more family-friendly tech podcasts visit techpodcasts.com

Having recently discovered Pinterest, I decided I’d talk a little about how homeschoolers can use this virtual pin board to compliment their current homeschooling program.

If you do a search for the term “homeschool” on Pinterest you’ll get thousands of results that will take you on so many rabbit trails on the Internet you’ll end up in Wonderland. Homeschoolers have been active on Pinterest for some time now but the service has recently hit its stride and is getting adopted as a social media tool that individuals and companies are leveraging to find valuable resources (and customers in the case of companies) online.

If you’d like to see what I’ve been pinning to my pin boards, just go to pinterest.com/wiredhs.

Cooperstown Home School Discovery Day – The Farmer’s Museum and National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown have collaborated to bring you a day of homeschool programming.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum (9:00-12:30)
The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum welcomes families and groups who participate in home education to a special day of programming on April 11th from 9:00am to 1:00pm. Guided and self-guided exploration activities will be available for students in grades K-12 and will focus on the core subjects of math, science, social studies, the arts and character education.

Participating students will receive the education admission rate of $5.00/student and one adult chaperone per five students will be admitted free.

For more information or to register for the Hall of Fame’s Home School Discovery day call 607-547-0347 or email the education department at Education@Baseballhall.org.

The Farmers’ Museum (1:00-4:00)
Join us at The Farmers’ Museum this April 11 for a special day of programming designed specially for home schooled students. Two hour guided tours based on historic life and farming begin at 1:00 and end at 3:00. Attendees are welcome to stay at our museum to self-guide after the program with no additional admission cost. Admission for students is just $4.00 each, and one adult chaperone per five students will receive complimentary admission. Additional adults will receive a special education discount of $9.00 per person.

Reservations are required for this event. Please call (607) 547-1461 or email s.desalvatore@nysha.org for more information and to save your space today!

Apps for Homeschooling – If you’re looking for great apps that you can use for homeschooling then this is the place for you.  iOS, Android, and Nook devices are all covered.

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If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to feedback@thewiredhomeschool.com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.  Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs.  Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs Music:Poofy Reel by Kevin Macleod.  The Wired Homeschool is a proud member of the Tech Podcast Network.  For more family-friendly tech podcasts visit techpodcasts.com

Note: if you’re unable to play the podcast using the player, click the “Download” link.

Computers are becoming more and more pervasive in our lives.  Kids learn to use them at a very young age these days and for some their interest goes beyond playing Angry Birds or using Facebook.

If you have a kid interested in learning to write programs, where do you start?  What resources are there available for the homeschooling parent?  Fortunately, the same tools available to public schools are available to home educators.

Here’s a brief list of some of the more popular offerings:

• Scratch – for ages 8 and up. Children create interactive stories, animations, games, music, and art while learning mathematical and computational ideas, critical thinking, systematic reasoning, and how to work collaboratively. Cost: free.
• LEGO Mindstorms – for ages 10 and up. With LEGO Mindstorms children learn to build programs that control robots that can perform a variety of tasks. Cost: $279.99
• Alice – for ages 6 and up. Teaches object-oriented programming in an interactive, 3D environment. Children can create stories, interactive games, or videos to share online. Cost: free.
• Phrogram – for ages 10 and up. Built on .Net, this programming languages gives kids a real taste for writing code using plain language. Cost: $34.95 and up.
• Stanford School of Engineering – for ages 13 and up. Stanford offers a number of free, online courses that self-motivated students can use to learn actual programming languages. Cost: free.

Mark Markuson asks,

I have 5 kids and we are online but I want to protect them. Do you like Windows Live family safety? Are their any other free online protection suites that are Christian or Family Friendly?

For filtering I recommend using OpenDNS Family Shield. It’s free and when used in conjunction with your router protects all the devices connecting to the Internet.

If you’re looking for accountability software check out Covenant Eyes.

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If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to feedback [at] thewiredhomeschool [dot] com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.  Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs.  Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs Music:Poofy Reel by Kevin Macleod.  The Wired Homeschool is a proud member of the Tech Podcast Network.  For more family-friendly tech podcasts visit techpodcasts.com

Update: If you’re looking for an old podcast and you can’t find it, try this: http://wp.me/p1aciG-c

Tim Tebow Law – Is it really good for homeschoolers?

I’m sure you’ve heard a lot about the “Time Tebow” laws that are in various state legislatures around the U.S. I have some mixed feelings about such laws. I live a highly-regulated state and I really don’t want to give the state another reason to scrutinize my homeschooling. On the other hand, I understand the viewpoint that we still pay school taxes and so our children should be allowed to participate in the same extra-curricular activities as public school students.

Geek Dads have something to hide?

I posted an infographic earlier this week pertaining to “geek dads” and the greatness of being a dad who’s technically savvy. However, there are some downsides to being a “geek dad” like the ability to hide our activities.

Class Dismissed Shares the Stories of Homeschooling Families

Class Dismissed looks like it’s going to be a great film about homeschooling. It appears to be coming from a secular point of view but that’s OK. There’s more reasons to homeschooling than religious and moral reasons. While those are the primary reasons that my wife and I cite, we also have other reasons not associated with our faith.

Urban Homeschoolers Seem to Carry More Clout

An article in Newsweek titled, Why Urban, Educated Parents Are Turning to DIY Education, seems to subtly imply that those who homeschool in urban areas and for non-religious reasons are more “normal”. Don’t get me wrong, I think this is a great article but I can’t help but sense that the writer is implying that those of us who homeschool for religious or moral reasons aren’t as justified as our secular counterparts. Maybe I’m just being paranoid.

Homeschool Dad Tip

Offer to help you wife with the homeschooling when you come home. Do this before she asks you to help! I know, you’ve had a long day at work but she has too. If there is still any schooling left to be done you can help carry the burden.

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If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to feedback@thewiredhomeschool.com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.  Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs.  Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs Music:Poofy Reel by Kevin Macleod.

Apple announced the reinvention of the textbook last week when they launched iBooks 2.
Fast facts:

• 20,000 education apps built for iPad
• 100,000s of books in iBook store
• 1.5 million iPads are currently in use in educational institutions and schools
• iTunes U has seen over 700 million downloads
• Video, interactive features, search, common iPad “gestures” like pinch to zoom, swipe, and tap
• Portrait mode is optimized for reading
• Highlighting and note-taking
• Study cards from notes and glossary terms
• Textbooks not available on iPhone or iPod
• iBook Author only available for Mac

More information about iBooks is available at Apple’s website.

Genesis Technologies offers discounts of up to 85% for homeschoolers. This is a great way to get a discount on software.

Jay Ryan’s Celestial Almanack will have you looking up when you step outside at night.

Simplex Spelling Sight Words and Phonics 1 are great ways for children to learn to spell.

Video review of the Belkin TuneDok. It’s a great accessory for keeping your iPod or iPhone safe in your vehicle.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to feedback@thewiredhomeschool.com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.  Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs.  Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs Music: Poofy Reel by Kevin Macleod.

Were you able to check-in and earn the Elvis Presley Live Birthday Broadcast sticker Sunday morning? When I attempted to use the widget it wasn’t working. There are very few stickers I try to make a point to earn and the Elvis stickers are on my “must-earn” list. Other stickers (like Christmas at Graceland) from Elvis.com have only been available for a very short time. They’re quite exclusive.

GetGlue is known to release stickers for all kinds of holidays. Sometimes there are stickers for well-known holidays and other times more obscure holidays ( Mole Day is one example). I’m on the lookout for a Friday the 13th sticker this year.

While more CES stickers are starting to show up, what about stickers for the Detroit Auto Show? Were there no automobile manufacturers that wanted to sponsor a sticker?

Where are the Strikeforce and UFC stickers?  Zuffa and Showtime certainly have the advertising dollars and with FOX and Fuel on board there should be stickers for the major events (title fights).  If HBO could release stickers for non-title fights why aren’t we seeing Rupert Murdoch put his vast media empire to work on some UFC stickers?

Housekeeping: I fixed the problem with the sticker reminder calendar not displaying in the sidebar. Also, you may notice that the podcast is being released on Monday night. That’s the plan going forward. Seems pointless to release the podcast in the middle of the week or on the weekend when most stickers have already become unavailable.

Enough with the ranting, now on to the stickers you can earn this week:

Discover the next big name in movie makeup magic as a fresh batch of contestants create the most incredible transformations this side of the silver screen. A new season of Face Off premieres Wednesday,January 11 at 10/9c. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at Syfy.  Check-in to Face Off before January 11, 2012.

Every year X-Play honors the best in gaming. But let’s be honest… we like to also look back on the year’s crappiest games as well. X-Play is semi-proud to present The 2011 Golden Mullet Awards! Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at G4.  Check-in to X-Play during the episode on January 11, 2012.

You’ve joined What’s Trending with Shira Lazar live from CES in Las Vegas including guests Eliza Dushku, iJustine, Robert Scoble, DJ Mike Relm and more! Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at Disrupt/Group.  Check-in to What’s Trending? while the show is live starting January 10, 2012.

Brad Pitt and Jonah Hill deliver home run performances in Moneyball. Be sure to check it out. Moneyball is now available on DVD and Blu-ray. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at Sony Pictures Home Entertainment.  Check-in to Moneyball starting January 10, 2012 to earn this sticker.

You’re watching the premiere of Shipping Wars on A&E. Watch the cutthroat world of these heavy-duty movers as they battle for the chance to transport the unshippable. Thanks for watching! Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at A&E.  Check-in to Shipping Wars during the premiere on January 10, 2012 at 9PM EST.  A coming soon and fan sticker are also available.

There’s no need to say “Nerds!” You haven’t missed the season 6 premiere of 30 Rock on Thursday, January12 at 8/7c. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at NBC.  Check-in to 30 Rock before January 12, 2012.  Premiere, fan and superfanstickers are also available.

A tale as old as time is getting a new dimension. Beauty and the Beast returns to the big screen as a 3D event. Don’t miss it! Beauty and the Beast (3D) opens in theaters on 1/13. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at Disney.  Check-in to Beauty and the Beast before January 13, 2012.  There is also a sticker available for checking in on the 13th.

Mark Wahlberg stars in a fast-paced, high-energy, drug trafficking thriller titled Contraband. Be sure to check out this movie when it opens in theaters everywhere on 1/13. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at Universal Pictures.  Check-in to Contraband before January 13, 2012.  Opening weekend and box office stickers are also available.

Dolly Parton and Queen Latifia together in one movie? We can hardly contain our joy! Check out Joyful Noise when it opens in theaters everywhere on 1/13. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at Warner Bros Pictures.  Check-in to Joyful Noise before January 13, 2012 to earn this sticker.  Opening weekend and box office stickers are also available.

You’re excited for the 2-hour Series Premiere of Alcatraz on January 16 @ 8/7c on FOX. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at FOX.  Check-in to Alcatraz before January 16, 2012.  A premiere and fan sticker are also available.

Steven over at GetGlueStickers.com was kind enough to setup a forum for the podcast so please feel free to drop by and discuss this podcast. You can also leave comments here too!

Please remember to subscribe to, rate, and review the podcast in iTunes. Follow the podcast on Tumblr and Twitter. Like the podcast on Facebook.

Call 518-290-0228 to leave feedback or email feedback@thestickercast.com. You can also submit your sticker hunting tips and tell me what stickers you’d like to see GetGlue release.

Music for this podcast: Pinball Spring by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons “Attribution 3.0″

GetGlue needs a podcast category. Many large podcasting networks like TWiT have stickers and yet there is still no podcasting category.

Podcasters are trying to get a little respect. Many podcasters have tried with no luck to get their podcasts added to the GetGlue databse. My suggestion is to continue to pepper support@getglue.com with requests and politely reach out to Alex Iskold on Twitter. Follow the conversations at Podcast Answerman and geoffgentry.org for more details.

Gluer of the week: Scott Green

I’m not seeing the reminder calendar in the sidebar, are you?

My latest sticker shipment:

Stickers mentioned this week:

You are now watching the live broadcast of Elvis Presley’s Birthday Celebration! Thank you for checking-in and wishing a very happy birthday to the king. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at Elvis Presley Enterprises.  Check in via the widget here to earn this sticker.

This week, the TODAY show celebrates being on the air for 60 years! From the beginnings with Dave Garroway and J. Fred Muggs the chimp, to today’s hosts Matt Lauer and Ann Curry, there have been a lot of changes over the years. But one thing remains the same–there is nothing quite like waking up to TODAY. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at NBC News. Check-in to Today starting January 9, 2012 to earn this sticker. Note: The Today show first aired on January 14, 1952.

Welcome to the new Big Brother House! Thanks for watching Celebrity Big Brother on Channel 5 and keep watching to become a Fan. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at Channel 5. Check-in to Celebrity Big Brother once to earn this sticker. This is a creepy sticker.

You can’t wait to see Flogging Molly tear up the stage with their live performances. Thank you for checking-in and enjoy the concert. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at Flogging Molly. Check-in to Flogging Molly to earn this sticker. There are also fan and superfan stickers for 5 and 15 check-ins, respectively.

You’re watching the Season 2 Premiere of Shameless on Showtime. The family is back and probably up to no good! Thanks for watching. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at Showtime. Check-in to Shameless during the premiere January 8, 2012 to earn this sticker. There is also a premiere sticker if you checking before January 8th. Showtime also has stickers for House of Lies and Californication.

Keep checking that mirror, you’ll never be as fair as Queen Ravenna unless you go see Snow White and The Huntsman when it opens in theaters on 6/1/2012. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at Universal Pictures. Check-in to Snow White and the Huntsman before 1 June, 2012 to earn this sticker.

Can these two Old Dogs survive two 7-year-old twins? Thanks for checking-in to Old Dogs. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at FX Has the Movies. Check-in via the widget on January 10, 2012 at 8PM EST to earn this sticker.

Check out the tech of tomorrow with the AOTS gadget experts at CES and be there from the moment the doors open to see the future as only G4 can show it to you. Attack of the Show LIVE from CES starts January 10. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at G4. Check-in to Attack of the Show before January 10, 2012 to earn this sticker. There is also a sticker for checking in on January 10th. Look for other CES stickers too.

Steven over at GetGlueStickers.com was kind enough to setup a forum for the podcast so please feel free to drop by and discuss this podcast. You can also leave comments here too!

Please remember to subscribe to, rate, and review the podcast in iTunes. Follow the podcast on Tumblr and Twitter. Like the podcast on Facebook.

Call 518-290-0228 to leave feedback or email feedback@thestickercast.com. You can also submit your sticker hunting tips and tell me what stickers you’d like to see GetGlue release.

Music for this podcast: Pinball Spring by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons “Attribution 3.0″

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your interests align with the hosts.

A look back at my podcasting this year and a look ahead to 2012.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

Podcast Advent Day 22

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your interests align with the hosts.

Two Blind Squirrels is funny.  That’s all I have to say about that.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

Podcast Advent Day 21

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your interests align with the hosts.

Psst. Husbands. Want to learn how you can have a happy wife? Then you need to listen to The Super Secret Podcast for Young Husbands with Mike Prince and Robert Herrington. Each episode is filled with humorous advice on creating a better marriage.

Ladies, if you don’t want a husband that sucks, slip a few episodes of The Super Secret Podcast for Young Husbands onto his digital media player, burn a CD, or create a mix tape that he can slide into that cassette deck in his ’84 Impala.

Give a listen to The Super Secret Podcast for Young Husbands today. Long name, short attention span.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

Podcast Advent Day 21 – The Super Secret Podcast for Young Husbands |j.mp/sNef3F @kmichaelprince @itsjustuscast @thesecretcast

— John Wilkerson (@jwilkers) December 21, 2011

Podcast Advent Day 20

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your interests align with the hosts.

If you follow my Twitter feed you know that I like MMA and when it comes to listening to podcasts about MMA I turn to the MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani.  Each week for 2 hours (I know, right) Ariel covers the latest MMA news with fellow reporters Ben Fowlkes, Mike Chiappetta, and sometimes Gareth Davies.

The show is recorded live every Monday at 1 PM eastern where Ariel does interviews with fighters from various promotions and takes listener calls live.

If you like MMA and want to hear some of the best interviews around, check out the MMA Hour.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

Podcast Advent Day 20 – The MMA Hour | j.mp/tSB6Fm @arielhelwani #mmahour

— John Wilkerson (@jwilkers) December 20, 2011

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your interests align with the hosts.

You may notice there is a lack of video podcasts on my list.  That’s because I do nearly all of my podcast listening in my car.  However, I don make sure to catch Smarter Every Day when it’s released.  OK, it’s not really a  podcast but I can bend the rules a little.

Destin’s 5-10 minutes videos that show up on his channel every week are YouTube gold.  Destin’s videos cover various scientific and real-life topics that are sure to stimulate your brain.  Some of the slow-motion footage he’s captured is fantastic.

Check out Smarter Every Day for science-y goodness that’s sure to tickle your brain.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your interests align with the hosts.

The Once Upon A Time Fan Podcast hosted by Jeff and Colleen Roney is a mus-listen if you’re a fan of the television show.  Each week, Jeff and Colleen discuss the current episode and provide insight into each episode with their theories about the show.

This is another new podcast in my playlist.  I listened to an episode and it actually got me interested in watching the show.  Jeff and Colleen don’t force their personalities through the show.  They’re genuine and entertaining at the same time.

If you’re hooked on Once Upon A Time, you don’t want to miss Jeff and Colleen’s Once Upon A Time Fan Podcast.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your interests align with the hosts.

The Sci-Fi Christian is a fairly new podcast in my rotation but it’s one I make sure not to miss when it’s released.  Hosted by Matt Anderson and Ben De Bono, The Sci-Fi Christian takes a look at various sci-fi topics from a Christian perspective.

Each week Matt and Ben cover sci-fi news, quote Stan Lee, and cover topics like dreams, time travel, The Lord of the Rings.  While the podcast normally lasts about 90 to 120 minutes, a recent format change will help it fit into your schedule a much easier.

Listen to Matt and Ben every week on The Sci-Fi Christian.  Who knows, you might even here me on the podcast every once in a while too.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your interests align with the hosts.

PID Radio, hosted by Derek and Sharon Gilbert, peers into the dark side of the news and tries to bring to light some of the news that “big media” outlets seem to conveniently ignore.  Derek’s experience as an afternoon-drive radio host comes through as he and Sharon navigate through the news to try and undercover the news behind the news.

Conspiracy theories, numerology, and global economic domination abound throughout their look behind the white-washed veil of big media.  Derek and Sharon bring the light of Christ to bear on stories that most news organizations wouldn’t touch with a 39-1/2 foot pole.  Put on your tinfoil hat and listen to PID Radio today.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your interests align with the hosts.

If you’re a solopreneur or a small business owner you know that technology is going to be an important part of your business.  Business Tech Weekly is just the podcast to help decide what technology is best for your business.  Hosts Cliff Ravencraft and Andy Traub (maybe you’ve heard of them) offer weekly advice about using all kinds of technology to help your business run more efficiently and gain a presence on the Internet.

Each week Cliff and Andy discuss using various forms of technology from mouse pads to social media that will help you in your small business.  OK, maybe they don’t talk about mouse pads but you won’t want to miss an episode of Business Tech Weekly.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

I play a voicemail  from Dave Avila of The Jen and Dave Show.

Speaking of other podcasts, this podcast was mention in the Once Upon a Time Fan Podcast, check it out if you’re a fan of OUAT.

Lastest Contest winner is SQLGuy.  There will be more stickers given away next year.

Steven over at GetGlueStickers.com was kind enough to setup a forum for the podcast so please feel free to drop by and discuss this podcast. You can also leave comments here too!

Please remember to subscribe to, rate, and review the podcast in iTunes.  Follow the podcast on Tumblr and Twitter.  Like the podcast on Facebook.

Call 518-290-0228 to leave feedback or email feedback@thestickercast.com. You can also submit your sticker hunting tips and tell me what stickers you’d like to see GetGlue release.

Music for this podcast: Pinball Spring by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons “Attribution 3.0″

Stickers mentioned in the podcast:

You’re getting into the holiday spirit by listening to music by Elvis Presley. Thank you for checking-in and have a rockin’ holiday season. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at Elvis Presley Enterprises.  Check into Elvis Presley to earn this sticker.  I assume you need to check in before December 25th.

You’ve timeslid from the future to save the Marvel Universe from…the Avengers?! Leading into Avengers Vs. X-Men, can Cable come out on top against Captain America, Iron Man, Spider-Man and more? Thank you for checking-in and enjoy. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at Marvel.  Check into Avengers: X-Sanction to earn this sticker.

Buckle in for the most mind-blowing cross country tour you’ve ever taken. Earth’s mightiest go on a brutal hunt to capture Cletus Kasady before the American heartland falls under his mass-murdering spell. Thank you for checking-in and enjoy. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at Marvel.  Check into Carnage, U.S.A. to earn this sticker.

You’re counting down to the Doctor Who 2011 Christmas Special: The Doctor, The Widow and The Wardrobe, premiering Christmas Day at 9/8c only on BBC America. Watch the exclusive trailer for this year’s Special. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at BBC America.  Check into Doctor Who before December 25th, 2011

You’re celebrating Boxing Day with Jeremy Clarkson Richard Hammond, and James May. Thanks for watching Top Gear Day on BBC Knowledge in Australia and BBC Knowledge NZ. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at BBC Worldwide Australia.  Check into Top Gear on 26 December to earn this sticker.

Where’s Alvin and the rest of the chipmunks? Are they stranded on some remote island? Find out when Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked opens in theaters everywhere on 12/16. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at 20th Century Fox.  Check into  Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked before 16 December to earn this sticker.  There are also Opening Weekend and Box Office stickers available too.

You’re taking part in one of the best Christmas traditions and watching A Charlie Brown Christmas on ABC. Watch as Charlie Brown tries to find the true meaning of Christmas, with all of his pals. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at ABC.  Check-in to A Charlie Brown Christmas on 5 December @ 8/7c or 15 December @ 8/7c to earn this sticker.

Can ReRun escape the holiday chaos at the Van Pelt house? Thanks for watching I Want a Dog for Christmas, Charlie Brown on ABC! Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at ABC.  Check-in to I Want A Dog For Christmas, Charlie Brown on 12 December @8/7c or 22 December @ 9/8c to earn this sticker.

War Horse is an epic tale about a remarkable friendship between a boy and his horse set against the turbulent times of WWI. War Horse opens in theaters everywhere this Christmas. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at Dreamworks Pictures.  Check-in to War Horse before 25 December to earn this sticker.  There are also Opening Weekend and Box Office stickers.

Does Sherlock Holmes finally meet his match in evil mastermind Professor Moriarty? Find out when Sherlock Holmes: A Games of Shadows opens in theaters everywhere on 12/16. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at Warner Bros.  Check-in to Sherlock Holmes – A Game of Shadows before 16 December to earn this sticker.  There are also Opening Weekend and multiple Box Office stickers to earn.

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your interests align with the hosts.

When most people think about homeschooling they have a stereo-typical picture in their mind of what a homeschooling father looks like.  Well, Gerald McKoy of The Homeschooling Buzz shatters all of those images and provides an entertaining and informative podcast about homeschooling.

While some of Gerald’s material focuses on homeschooling in California, many of the guests and nearly all of the advice is applicable to homeschooling in any state in the US.  Gerald provides upbeat interviews with authors and homeschooling personalities from all styles and philosophies of homeschooling.

Don’t miss The Homeschooling Buzz if you’re looking for a podcast for homeschoolers by homeschoolers.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your interests align with the hosts.

There’s no lack of diversity in the Church throughout the United States and the world and one podcast that celebrates that diversity is Beyond the Box.  Hosts Steve Sensenig and Rayburn Johnson take you with them on their roller coaster ride through their personal walk of faith in dealing with the Church.

Their outside of the box thinking will challenge your beliefs that you may have held on to for many years and broaden your understanding of what a walk with Christ is supposed to be.  Steve and Ray also occasionally interview authors who have influenced their personal journeys.

Check out Beyond the Box and prepare to have your Christian sensibilities challenged.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your interests align with the hosts.

Random, eccentric, and funny are the three words I would use to describe The Jen and Dave Show.  Hosted by Dave and Jen Avila from their home in Visalia, California, this podcast allows you to peer into the lives of the not-so-average Californian.

Dave and Jen discuss the humorous events in their lives from trips to Costco  to Dave’s seemingly infinite number of odd jobs he does on the weekends.  Some fan-favorite segments in their podcast  include the music lyric game and tech talk with Jen.

The dogs in their back yard can attest to the wonderful joy you’ll feel when listening to The Jen and Dave Show.  Listen today and you’ll learn why they say “rabbit trails are their business and business is good.”

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

Podcast Advent Day 11

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your interests align with the hosts.

Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, Foursquare and dozens of other social media sites can hove you poking, tweeting, checking in, and posting status updates until your fingers bleed.  Fortunately, there’s Social Media Serenity to help you reach social media nirvana.

Each week Cliff Ravenscraft and Erik J. Fisher discuss various social media platforms and how you can manage all of these “multiple personalities” without driving yourself insane.  In addition to discussing the latest news, Cliff and Eric also cover strategies for building your personal brand without messing with your feng shui.

Check out Social Media Serenity and the many other podcasts at the Generally Speaking Productions Network and remember: serenity now!

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

Podcast Advent Day 10

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your interests align with the hosts.

Every once in a while there’s a podcast that comes along that makes you laugh so hard you spray coffee out of your nose.  It’s Just Us is one of those podcasts.  It’s a comedy/real life/couple-cast hosted by Robert and Chelsea Herrington that often leaves me in stitches.

Fortunately I have a good plastic surgeon and there are no scars from listening to Robert and Chelsea talk about what’s going on in their lives from work to recitals to what they had for lunch.  Robert’s rants are sure to leave you laughing while Chelsea analyzes her husband’s insecurities about self-checkouts and trips to the hardware store.

You’l laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll have tears running down your leg as you listen to It’s Just Us.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

Podcast Advent Day 9

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your interests align with the hosts.

Remember back on day 6 when I mentioned that there would be another podcast from the TWiT network in my list?  Well, Security Now is it.  If I could only recommend one tech podcast this is it.

One week Steve Gibson and Leo Laporte cover the latest security news then  gives an in-depth description of some technology topic that is directly or tangentially related to security.  Every other week Steve responds to listener questions a with thoughtful eye to detail.

This is another podcast that takes quite a time commitment not only because it clocks in around 90 minutes but because there is just so much information to digest.  Steve’s down-to-earth explanations of technical topics will keep you coming back for more of Security Now every week.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

Podcast Advent Day 8

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your interests align with the hosts.

Science fiction is a genre of entertainment that many Christians either don’t understand of feel there are too many humanistic themes to be of any value.  Paeter Frandsen of The Spirit Blade Underground, however, finds ways to tie in a Christian worldview with his love of science fiction and fantasy.

Each week, Paeter takes 30-45 minutes to cover science fiction news, review movies and comic books, and provide a devotional that appeals to fans of science fiction.  In addition to all of this, the podcast is a medium to keep listeners updated on Paeter’s fantastic Spirit Blade audio drama series.

If you’re a fan of science fiction movies, books, and comic books be sure to check out The Spirit Blade Underground.  Oh yeah, don’t forget to buy his audio drama either.  It’s well-produced and worth every penny.  Check it out today!

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

You can win these stickers! Listen to find out how!

Steven over at GetGlueStickers.com was kind enough to setup a forum for the podcast so please feel free to drop by and discuss this podcast. You can also leave comments here too!

Please remember to subscribe to, rate, and review the podcast in iTunes.  If you like Tumblr, follow the podcast on Tumblr as well. Follow the podcast on Twitter.

Call 518-290-0228 to leave feedback or email feedback@thestickercast.com. You can also submit your sticker hunting tips and tell me what stickers you’d like to see GetGlue release.

Music for this podcast: Pinball Spring by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons “Attribution 3.0″

Remember when the Burgermeister Meisterburger outlawed toys in Sombertown and a toy train melted the Winter Warlock’s icy heart? Relive the story of how Kris Kringle became Santa Claus. Thank you for checking-in and enjoy watching Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at Classic Media. Check into Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town to earn this sticker.

Remember when a magical top hat brought Frosty to life on Christmas Day? Sing along to your favorite classic tunes and relive Frosty’s adventures. Thank you for checking-in and enjoy watching Frosty the Snowman. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at Classic Media.  Check into Frosty The Snowman to earn this sticker.

Remember when Santa asked Rudolph to guide his sleigh that foggy Christmas Eve? We sure do. Thank you for checking-in and enjoy watching Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at Classic Media.  Check into Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer to earn this sticker.

You’ve checked once in to ABC Family’s 25 Days of Christmas! It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas on ABC Family! Keep watching this December for more great holiday programming! Share this one proudly. It’s from our friends at ABC Family. Check into 25 Days Of Christmas to earn this sticker.

Podcast Advent Day 7

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your interests align with the hosts.

If you’ve been podcasting for any length of time you’re probably already aware of Audacity: the free and open source audio editing software.  Many podcasters have used the software at one time or another only to give it up for Adobe Audition or GarageBand.  The Audacity to Podcast, hosted by Daniel J. Lewis, pulls back the curtain on Audacity and shows you how to podcast using this free software.

In addition to providing the listener with great information on producing podcasts with Audacity, Daniel also offers detailed tips on podcasting in general from setting up your website to choosing the hardware and software for your hobby.

Daniel also has other great podcasts available at the Noodle.mx network that are sure to interest you.  Check out The Audacity to Podcast and all the other great podcasts that Daniel has to offer today.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

Podcast Advent Day 6

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your intrests align with the hosts.

When it comes to podcasting, the 800-lb. gorilla in the room is Leo Laporte’s TWiT network and with nearly 30 podcasts in the TWiT empire a few were bound to make my list.  Windows Weekly is one of them.

Leo along with Paul Thurrott and Mary Jo Foley cover a wide range of Windows related news including the upcoming Windows 8 release, X-Box, and Windows Phone 7.  You can expect lively conversation and responsible reporting when it comes to those pesky Microsoft rumors.

Windows Weekly clocks in around 90 minutes an episode so I like to save it for my commutes.  Leo hosts the show with enthusiasm while Paul and Mary Jo bring insightful commentary on all things Microsoft.  Check out Windows Weekly today.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

Podcast Advent Day 5

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your intrests align with the hosts.

Continuing on with the calendar I thought I’d pull in an unexpected podcast: Mac OS Ken.  I wouldn’t say that I’m an Apple enthusiast.  I do think that people should use whatever hardware and software they’re most comfortable with.  Even if I were a staunch Microsoft supporter it can be argued that Apple has been leading with innovations in the computer industry for at least a decade and when I want news about that innovation Mac OS Ken is the podcast I recommend.

Ken Ray’s experience in radio comes through in spades in this podcast.  His wit, cynicism, and (dare I say it?) charm, oozes through every story he covers.  Mac OS Ken cover Apple news in a way that is both informative and entertaining.  If you’re looking for “just the facts, ma’am” you’d better look somewhere else because this podcast comes at you with a unique style sure to please.

Ken covers a variety of Apple news that’s sure to keep you wanting more.  Check out Mac OS Ken today.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

Podcast Advent Day 4

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your intrests align with the hosts.

You might be thinking that Johnny is all work and no play considering the list of podcasts to make the list so far.  Far from it, I think you need a healthy dose of play in your life.  One way I play is by watching Netflix and a great way to hear about shows to watch is by listening to Queue Hog.

Queue Hog is a weekly podcast that reviews movies and TV programs available on Netflix.  James Kennison hosts John Steinklauber, Erik Fisher, and Christopher Titchnall in a round-table discussion about various shows they’ve watched in the past week.  The podcast is one hour of amusing commentary that is sure to bring a smile to your face.  I frequently find myself laughing out loud at the comments they make about the shows they’ve watched.

Each week the groups watched the first 10 minutes of one TV program and the first two episodes of another.  The friendly banter among the participants is a highlight but the honest opinions about each program will certainly help you decide what you might want to consider adding to your Netflix queue.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your intrests align with the hosts.

Seth Godin’s book, Linchpin, sparked a revolution among cubicle dwellers.  Andy Traub’s Linchpin Podcast seeks out those who’ve been influenced by Godin’s book and delves deep into their psyche to find out what makes them Linchpins.

OK, maybe that’s a little dramatic but if you do want to hear great interviews with people like Tom Ziglar and Dan Miller then look no further.  Andy’s interviews are thoughtful and precise.  He packs a lot of great material in each and every episode.  Unlike the last two podcasts mentioned you can expect to spend at least an hour listening to the thoughts of successful people who’ve taken the principles in Linchpin and applied them to business and life.

Andy has other great podcasts that you may want to explore as part of his Take Permission Media Network check them out and see if there’s something there that interests you.  If business-oriented podcasts aren’t your cup of tea, maybe you want to learn to be a better husband or need some tips on natural child birth.  That’s all for today, tune in tomorrow for another great podcast.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your intrests align with the hosts.

For the second day I thought I would recommend Get-It-Done Guy’s Quick and Dirty Tips to Work Less and Do More.  The holiday season can be very busy and hectic.  The hustle and bustle of the holiday season often raises stress levels and it seems like you can’t get every thing done.  That’s where Stever Robbins and his quick and dirty tips will help you.

Just like the last podcast I mentioned, this one is short, usually under 10 minutes, so it will fit into your hectic holiday schedule easily.  Stever gives helpful, practical tips for getting things done efficiently and with purpose.

The Get-It-Done Guy Podcast will get you on the path to making those tough decisions like, “How do I decide what to wear?” and, “Do you really need 42 white towels in your bathroom?” Check it out today to starting learning how to become a well-oiled, holiday shopping machine! OK, maybe not right away but with Stever’s tips you should be well-prepared for next year.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog.

Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

iTunes sticker giveaway winner – Cole_316.

I’m giving away hundreds of stickers!  To win this batch go to facebook.com/thestickercast and like this episode on the Facebook page.  I have no way of knowing who likes the episode here on the site so you’ll need to go to the Facebook page.  A winner will be announced next week.  Non-U.S. winners will need to pay the difference between a 1st class stamp and international postage.  You may win once a month.  Listen for more details.

Steven over at GetGlueStickers.com was kind enough to setup a forum for the podcast so please feel free to drop by and discuss this podcast. You can also leave comments here too!

Please remember to subscribe to, rate, and review the podcast in iTunes.  If you like Tumblr, follow the podcast on Tumblr as well. Follow the podcast on Twitter.

Call 518-290-0228 to leave feedback or email feedback@thestickercast.com. You can also submit your sticker hunting tips and tell me what stickers you’d like to see GetGlue release.

Music for this podcast: Pinball Spring by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons “Attribution 3.0″

It’s the Christmas season and with that comes the season of Advent. Advent is a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and reflect upon the gift of Christ’s birth. This is usually marked off by lighting candles (weekly or daily) and calendars full of chocolate. It usually also includes some kind of devotional. I’m not going to provide a devotional but what I do plan to offer this month may be of interest to you.

This advent I thought I would provide a virtual calendar of podcasts that may interest you. These are all podcasts that I listen to currently and/or highly recommend that you listen to if your intrests align with the hosts.

The 365 Days of Astronomy podcast will start things off. Since it was a star that signaled the birth of our King I thought it appropriate to start by looking to the skies.

There are three things I like about this podcast: it’s short (about 10 minutes), it’s hosted by a different person every day, and it’s about space.

The podcast was originally started in 2009 to celebrate the International Year of Astronomy and has contined to this day. Each day a different person from around the world shares a little bit of astronomy knowledge. I especially enjoy hearing from astronomers in the Southern hemisphere. They describe things that we can see in our sky.

Many different astronomical topics are covered every day from naked-eye observations to astronomer biographies. You’re sure to find something that will pique your interest. Give it a listen today.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to geek@jesusgeek.info, or leave a comment on the blog. Don’t forget to follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.

Jesus Geek is a member of the My Life Ministries: a community of ministries that views the everyday Christian life as a ministry and seeks to encourage Christians in their daily walk with Christ.

Jesus Geek is also a member of the Tech Podcast Network and Christian New Media Group. It is released under Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

I’m extending the previous week’s contest due to a little confusion (my fault, not yours). Listen for more details.

For some of us in the United Stated we’re off work for the next 5 days so there’s plenty of time to earn these stickers from Marvel, USA Networks, The CW, and more. Will there be any “Black Friday” stickers? What about stickers for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?

Released just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday: Foodie Stickers which are sure to make you drool.

Steven over at GetGlueStickers.com was kind enough to setup a forum for the podcast so please feel free to drop by and discuss this podcast. You can also leave comments here too!

Please remember to subscribe to, rate, and review the podcast in iTunes.  If you like Tumblr, follow the podcast on Tumblr as well. Follow the podcast on Twitter.

Call 518-290-0228 to leave feedback or email feedback@thestickercast.com. You can also submit your sticker hunting tips and tell me what stickers you’d like to see GetGlue release.

Music for this podcast: Pinball Spring by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons “Attribution 3.0″

The winner of last week’s contest is announced, plus, lots of great stickers this week from Marvel (Spider-man, The Avengers, The New Avengers, The Hulk, Magneto, Generation Hope, Point One). Also some movies are coming soon (The Hunger Games) and opening this weekend (Twilight: Breaking Dawn Part 1 and Happy Feet Two).

GetGlue partners with Arktan for real-time social TV check-ins:

GetGlue is partnering with Arktan to allow to include [sic] GetGlue check-ins and conversations in real-time within Arktan’s Social TV streams. Arktan’s Social TV streams surface content and conversation in real-time from Social Web sources including Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Tumblr and now GetGlue. TV Networks and other media partners leverage these consolidated streams to provide users deep and relevant conversations around specific shows and topics.

GetGlue checkins and conversation are already live on the Arktan enabled Social TV stream for the TV show “Suits” on USA Networks’s Character Chatter.

I’m giving away more stickers. To be eligible to win this week’s batch of stickers (which includes Conan the Barbarian, Fright Night, Apollo 18, Attack the Block and more) you must rate and review the podcast on iTunes. A winner will be chosen at random from all of the people who’ve rated and reviewed the podcast and announced on next week’s podcast. The winner will need to contact me in order to receive the stickers. If the winner doesn’t respond within 5 days of the announcement a new winner will chosen. Winners from this month aren’t eligible. Don’t have an iTunes account? Tune in next week for another chance to win.

Note: if you live in a foreign country, leave your rating and review in the iTunes store and add a comment below to let me know what country you’re from. Any foreign winners will have to pay the difference between US and international postage.

For a chance to win these stickers rate and review the podcast on iTunes

Steven over at GetGlueStickers.com was kind enough to setup a forum for the podcast so please feel free to drop by and discuss this podcast. You can also leave comments here too!

Please remember to subscribe to, rate, and review the podcast in iTunes.  If you like Tumblr, follow the podcast on Tumblr as well. Follow the podcast on Twitter.

Call 518-290-0228 to leave feedback or email feedback@thestickercast.com. You can also submit your sticker hunting tips and tell me what stickers you’d like to see GetGlue release.

Music for this podcast: Pinball Spring by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons “Attribution 3.0″

I’m giving away hundreds of stickers!  To win this batch leave a comment below.  A winner will be announced next week.  Non-U.S. winners will need to pay the difference between a 1st class stamp and international postage.  You may win once a month.  Listen for more details.

Steven over at GetGlueStickers.com was kind enough to setup a forum for the podcast so please feel free to drop by and discuss this podcast. You can also leave comments here too!

Please remember to subscribe to, rate, and review the podcast in iTunes.  If you like Tumblr, follow the podcast on Tumblr as well.

Call 518-290-0228 to leave feedback or email feedback@thestickercast.com. You can also submit your sticker hunting tips and tell me what stickers you’d like to see GetGlue release.

Music for this podcast: Pinball Spring by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons “Attribution 3.0″

Thou Shalt Not Kill is an audio short story intended for teens and adults. It contains content that may not be suitable for all ages. Listener discretion is advised.

Thou Shalt Not Kill was written and performed by John Wilkerson. Music for Thou Shalt Not Kill was provided by Kevin Macleod.

Original image for album art by Heo2035

Subscribe to Thou Shalt Not Kill: iTunes | RSS | Zune

Thou Shalt Not Kill is an audio short story intended for teens and adults. It contains content that may not be suitable for all ages. Listener discretion is advised.

Thou Shalt Not Kill was written and performed by John Wilkerson. Music for Thou Shalt Not Kill was provided by Kevin Macleod.

Original image for album art by Heo2035

Subscribe to Thou Shalt Not Kill: iTunes | RSS | Zune

Make sure you check out the press releases I’m now placing on the website.

Sources for finding homeschooling news:

• HSLDA news page
• Facebook groups and pages
• Yahoo! Groups
• Google Alerts

How to setup a Google alert:

Note: in the episode I stated that you would need a Google account to setup a Google alert.  That is only partially correct.  If you want to send the alerts to an RSS feed you will need an account, however, just to send alerts to an email address that’s not necessary.

1. Go to http://google.com/alerts
2. Type your search string into the search box
3. Choose what type of information you want in the alert (Everything, News, Blogs, Video Discussions)
4. Choose how often you want the alert to update (As-it-happens, Once a day, Once a week)
5. Choose the quality of content (Only the best results, All results)
6. Choose the email address you want the alert sent to.  If you’re registered you’ll have the option of creating an RSS feed.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to feedback@thewiredhomeschool.com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.  Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs.  Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs

My wife Lisa makes her podcasting debut as we talk about how we apply technology in our homeschooling.

We discuss the use of devices like the Kindle and iPad and some great online resources.

You won’t want to miss this episode.

Websites mentioned in the podcast:

• currclick.com
• homeschoolfreebieoftheday.com
• vegsource.com
• homeschoolclassifieds.com
• 60secondrecap.com
• sheppardsoftware.com
• enchantedlearning.com
• khanacademy.com
• markkistler.com

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to feedback@thewiredhomeschool.com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.  Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs.  Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs

Gerald McKoy

Note: I am double-posting this interview.  I don’t normally do this but I wanted share this will homeschoolers as well.  Rather than edit the interview for The Wired Homeschool I’m providing it to you as it was recorded for my other podcast,Jesus Geek.

This week’s interview is with Gerald McKoy of The Homeschooling Buzz.

Gerald is a Christian, Husband, Father of 5 boys, Homeschool Evangelist, Software Developer, and Internet Entrepreneur. Currently, I serve as Vice President on the Board of Directors of the Christian Home Educators Association of California(CHEA of CA).

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to wiredhs [at] gmail [dot] com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.  Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs.  Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs

In this special edition of the podcast, I interview Steve Sensenig, the creator of My Homeschool Transcripts.

Developed by a homeschooler for homeschoolers, MyHST looks to be a very valuable tool in the homeschooler’s tool kit. Here’s yet another way to use technology to accelerate your homeschooling.

This is an edited version of a two-part interview I did with Steve on my other podcast, Jesus Geek. Part 1 of that interview is currently available here and part 2 will get published next week.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to wiredhs [at] gmail [dot] com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.  Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs.  Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs

Students on their way to college have enough stress. One thing that is often overlooked is their public appearance on the Internet, especially Facebook. Students should consider carefully the type of information they share because it could be found by a college recruiter.

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to wiredhs [at] gmail [dot] com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers.  Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs.  Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs

If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to wiredhs [at] gmail [dot] com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers. Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs. Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs

A blog is basically an online diary, it’s a way to share information about yourself and others online. One of the easiest ways to start blogging is by using WordPress.com. It’s free and easy and I think it’s a great way for your child to share their schoolwork and projects with others, especially college admissions counselors. Think of it as an online resume.

I’m not suggesting that every single day your child blogs about what pages in history he read or how many quadratic equations he solved. Rather, he should share those things that stand out like projects, book reports, essays, and any volunteer opportunities.

By posting digital copies of his work online, your child can have a readily available prospectus of his school work to show to a college advisor. It will also demonstrate his grasp of a subject and showcase his interests.

A word of caution: this blog should only contain school-related material. In fact, I recommend not linking to any outside sources that aren’t used as reference material or contain information pertinent to a particular subject. This is a showcase of your child’s work, not a personal blog.

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If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to feedback@thewiredhomeschool.com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers. Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs. Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs

The Wired Homeschool is a proud member of the Tech Podcast Network. For more family-friendly tech podcasts visit techpodcasts.com

Homeschooling has a number of benefits: flexible schedules, targeted curriculum, and proper socialization just to name a few. However, disadvantages such as a lack of knowledge about a subject, scheduling conflicts, and dealing with the different learning methods of children can sometimes discourage and derail a parent’s homeschooling plans.

Technology can help alleviate some of the perceived disadvantages of homeschooling and lighten the load of the home educator. With technology a parent can streamline, coordinate and tailor a child’s education to best suit the parent’s and the child’s needs.

There are many reasons to use technology in your homeschool:

• Conquer time restraints
• Customized curriculum
• Collaborative learning
• Capture additional resources
• Cut costs

Let’s take a detailed look at each of these reasons.

Conquer time restraints

“I don’t have enough time,” is one of the primary reasons people will say they can’t homeschool their child. With technology, the parent can make better use of their time and properly manage their child’s time through the entire homeschooling process. Online and locally installed classroom and curriculum planners assist the parent in scheduling and planning out each day, month, and year for their child to better manage any time constraints and conflicts that may arise.

Customized curriculum

Everyone learns differently. Theories about learning styles differ but in general most people are either auditory, visual or kinesthetic learners. There are some people who require a combination of all or some of these methods to properly learn about a subject. Despite the style or pace at which a child learns, technology takes advantage of a child’s learning style and provides proper pacing for students of all abilities.

Collaborative learning

Homeschooling can sometimes lead to a sense of isolation. In some cases, families are truly isolated either geographically or culturally and this can stifle the learning experience. With technology, that isolation can be minimized so that parents and children feel like they’re not “in this alone.” With technology, borders can be crossed and cultural boundaries can be explored rather than ignored. Technology allows the children and parents to collaborate with others in ways that were previously impossible.

Capture additional resources

Every parent desires to provide as much information to their child as possible when teaching, especially if the parent’s knowledge on a specific subject is limited. Space is limited in most people’s houses and buying and cataloging thousands of books can be an overwhelming and costly task. Technology allows the parent to supplement their expansive and growing library with material that their child can access without having to leave the home. Gone are the days of spending hours in the library with an encyclopedia. Now students can leverage the power of the Internet to research any subject from agriculture to zoology.

Cuts costs

With the cost of just about everything sky-rocketing these days, home educators seek out new ways to save a little extra every day. After all, there are no federal tax credits for homes educators and very few states offer and tax relief of any kind. Technology can reduce the cost of home education and relieve some of the burden involved with purchasing educational materials. $1500 may seem like fortune for a curriculum but if it can be used over and over with several children then the total cost per child is greatly reduced. In addition, there are a number of free resources that parents can take advantage of in their educational endeavors.

As you can see, technology gives the home educator a plethora of tools to accomplish the very rewarding task of homeschooling. Hopefully you’re motivated to modernize your homeschool and take advantage of the various technologies available to you and better your child’s education.

Thanks to Audio Theatre Central for sponsoring this week’s podcast!

From the archives – 5 Reasons to Use Technology in Your #homeschool – j.mp/IDunkd

— The Wired Homeschool (@wiredhs) April 11, 2012

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If you’d like to leave feedback about this or any other episode you can call and leave a voice mail by calling 518-290-0228, send email to feedback@thewiredhomeschool.com, or leave a comment on the blog. Follow me on Twitter: @jwilkers. Also follow the podcast on Twitter: @wiredhs. Join the Facebook page over at http://facebook.com/wiredhs

The Wired Homeschool is a proud member of the Tech Podcast Network. For more family-friendly tech podcasts visit techpodcasts.com