AwesomeCast 733: From Pac-Man Donuts to Pit Lane Cams: Streaming the Storm
On this episode of AwesomeCast, Sorg and Dave recount Sidekick Media’s wildest production yet—livestreaming Formula SAE from Michigan International Speedway during severe storms and tornado watches. From wireless camera challenges to global collaborations with Brazilian media, they break down the tech and teamwork behind the scenes. Plus, the crew covers the latest from Google I/O 2025, including AI-powered tools, Flow video generation, and new AR glasses. Chachi drops gaming news with Tekken’s Waffle House stage, Krispy Kreme’s Pac-Man donuts, and the ongoing Apple vs. Epic Fortnite saga. Oh—and Sesame Street is saved by Netflix!
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Show Notes
In AwesomeCast 733, co-hosts Michael Sorg and Dave Podnar dive into a jam-packed week of tech, video games, and behind-the-scenes adventures. Sorg shares a wild look at Sidekick Media Services’ most ambitious SAE live stream production yet—from setting up gear at Michigan International Speedway during a tornado watch to integrating wireless cameras and collaborating internationally with Brazilian media teams. The crew also explores Google I/O 2025’s latest AI features, Google’s new AR glasses prototype, and the surreal promise of Google’s Flow video creation tool. Plus, Chachi delivers the latest in gaming news with Waffle House in Tekken, Krispy Kreme’s Pac-Man collab, and Epic vs. Apple heating up again over Fortnite. We also get a warm update on Sesame Street’s new deal with Netflix and celebrate the culture of motorsport engineering. Stick around for rainbow sightings, bookstore detours, and vintage arcades on the road home.
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Bulleted Summaries of Topics Covered:
🎮 ChachiSays Video Game Minute:
• Tekken x Waffle House? Tekken director Katsuhiro Harada continues efforts to add a Waffle House stage to the game after fan requests.
• Pac-Man Donuts: Krispy Kreme launches limited-time Pac-Man donuts for the 45th anniversary—flavors include Strawberry Power Berry and TEAM GHOST.
• Fortnite vs. Apple: Apple re-blocked Fortnite on the iOS App Store amid ongoing legal disputes; court intervention required Apple to reinstate it just before showtime.
📺 Streaming & Media Industry Updates:
• Sesame Street Saved: The iconic children’s show secures a new multi-platform deal with Netflix and PBS after its HBO partnership ends.
• Global Reach: Netflix’s international streaming will include select Sesame Street episodes, increasing accessibility worldwide.
🎥 Production Recap – SAE Formula Event at MIS:
• Sidekick Media orchestrates a multi-camera live stream at Michigan International Speedway.
• Gear survived thunderstorms, wind damage, and even tornado warnings.
• Wireless Hollyland Cosmos & Pyro systems were used for flexibility across the field.
• Collaborated with Brazilian media for simultaneous commentary and VR cam setups.
• Peak stream hit 700+ concurrent viewers; interviews included sponsors like Tesla, Cummins, Honda, and OnShape.
🤖 Google I/O 2025 Highlights:
• AI dominates announcements: password update automation, Search Live features, and generative tools.
• Flow by Google: AI video creation tool with surreal storytelling potential. Subscription required for full access.
• AR Smart Glasses Prototype: Stylish Google Glass 2.0 may partner with Warby Parker for design—true augmented reality may be on the horizon.
🕹 Fortnite Back on iOS:
• Legal pressure forces Apple to reinstate Fortnite in the App Store after the block.
• Show hosts attempt to download it live—13GB and counting.
🚗 Behind-the-Scenes Fun:
• Rainbows, bookstores, free arcades, and Battle Cat statues punctuated the team’s road trip.
• Crew discussed event logistics, gear improvements, wireless challenges, and growing sponsor interest.
• Shout-outs to interns, the commentary team, and tech operators who braved weather and chaos to deliver a smooth production.
💡 Final Thoughts:
• The importance of creating media experiences people want to be part of—whether in motorsports, streaming, or pro wrestling.
• Building educational engagement around engineering-focused events is key for industry and audience alignment.