Podcast Review: Computer Freaks by Inc. – A Misguided Dive into Tech History

When I first saw Computer Freaks, a podcast by Inc., pop up on my feed, I was intrigued. Promising a deep dive into the revolutionaries behind the personal computer boom, it sounded like a must-listen for anyone interested in technology, innovation, and the mavericks who reshaped the modern world. Unfortunately, what could have been a fascinating chronicle of genius and groundbreaking work quickly derailed into something else entirely.

What Computer Freaks Gets Wrong

Instead of spotlighting the trailblazing technology, the brilliant minds behind it, and the pivotal moments that changed history, Computer Freaks veers off into a narrative dominated by personal drama, infighting, and interpersonal relationships. While internal conflict can certainly provide context and depth, the show becomes so consumed by these elements that it loses sight of its central theme: technology and the people who built it.

Rather than exploring the innovation and vision that defined early computing, the podcast seems intent on sensationalizing its subjects. It frames key moments through the lens of conflict and character flaws, often at the expense of celebrating the accomplishments themselves. What listeners get is not a tech history podcast but a dramatized character study—without much of the actual "tech."

A Distraction from the Story

Another major misstep is the show’s insistence on inserting extended commentary on race and gender dynamics into nearly every episode. While these issues are undeniably important and relevant to the broader tech industry, the way Computer Freaks handles them feels forced and heavy-handed. Instead of enriching the story, these digressions often sidetrack it, pulling listeners away from the actual narrative of innovation and reducing complex topics to soundbites that feel performative rather than insightful.

The Verdict

In short, Computer Freaks is a letdown. It had all the ingredients to be a compelling, educational, and inspiring listen. Instead, it gets bogged down in gossip, armchair psychology, and misplaced moralizing. For tech enthusiasts hoping to learn more about the pioneers of the personal computer era, this podcast is more frustrating than informative.

Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2 out of 5)
Recommendation: Skip it. There are better tech history podcasts out there.

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