3: 'A Web Site from Before the Web' with Adam Engst
Summary
Adam Inks joins Sam Biddle to celebrate TidBits’ 36-year history, tracing its evolution from a 1990 HyperCard mailing list to a modern web publication. They discuss the technical hurdles of early internet distribution, the shift from a collaborative team to a solo operation, and the changing landscape of Mac journalism. Inks also reflects on Apple’s growth, the decline of independent tech blogs, and the enduring value of curated, high-quality reporting in an era of AI and mainstream media saturation.
Topics discussed
Origins of Tidbits: HyperCard, BinHex, and early internet
Early distribution challenges and the transition to the web
Evolution of the Mac ecosystem and developer landscape
The decline of April Fools' speculative fiction in tech media
Working with spouse Tanya: Collaboration and editing workflows
Transitioning Tidbits to a solo operation and freelance changes
Publishing workflow: Web-first, SEO, and historical consistency
Apple's rise and the role of independent press in holding it accountable
Shift from passion blogs to professional media and niche content
International translations and volunteer community efforts
Syndication model for Apple consultants and AI challenges
Independent documentation vs. official manuals and long-form content
The Take Control book series: Success, burnout, and sale
Nostalgia for discontinued Mac hardware and software
Favorite Macs: iMacs, MacBook Pros, and ergonomic preferences
Apple software bugs, third-party apps, and design perfectionism
Career advice: Learning concepts over specific tools
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