The O.G. Podcast Legend
Real talk: if you listen to podcasts with high-level sound design, you have Jad Abumrad to thank. As the creator of Radiolab, Abumrad basically invented the cinematic, audio-rich style that changed the game forever. After stepping down from Radiolab in 2022, he’s been leveling up as a composer and a distinguished research professor at Vanderbilt.
But what does a master of sound actually use in his day-to-day life? The Verge caught up with him, and his answers are a vibe.
The Tech That Makes the Cut
Abumrad is lowkey over the modern obsession with constant connectivity. His ultimate tech wish? A magic button to turn his smartphone into a "dumb phone." He finds the constant notification buzzes annoying, so he even uses a two-minute meditation session and literally bricks his phone when it’s time to lock in.
His app setup is all about efficiency. He swears by Fantastical for scheduling, and his must-install tool for a new computer is Alfred, an Apple Spotlight replacement that he prefers over Raycast because it skips the "annoying AI features."
Why it matters
In a world where we’re constantly over-stimulated, Abumrad’s perspective is a reality check. Whether it’s his love for a 15-year-old audio plugin like Granite or his appreciation for a physical butterfly knife, he proves that you don't need the latest AI gadget to be a creative powerhouse. Sometimes, the "old-school" tools—and knowing when to turn your phone off—are the real secret sauce.
