'When patents attack'

"This American Life" recently went uncovered an incredible abuse of the U.S. patent system that is enriching a few but handcuffing innovation for countless tech companies and other innovators. 

The stereotypical Mafia-style shakedown is nothing compared to creative but sleazy entrepreneurs who are abusing the archaic systems in place at the U.S. Patent Office.  TAL's relentless reporting and fast-paced storytelling makes this hour well worth your time. 

New Fountains of Wayne

Tuesday brought the release of the long-awaited new Fountains of Wayne album, "Sky Full of Holes." "Soundcheck" captures them live on release day, in a low-fi performance. 

As I write this, Amazon is selling the MP3 version of "Sky Full of Holes" for only $3.99. After one listen of the album and feeling like they mailed in the "Soundcheck" performance, I'm feeling a bit underwhelmed. But I've learned never to underestimate FOW, so hope it grows on me soon enough. 

Update on Saturday, August 13, 2011 at 10:42 AM by Logan Molen

FOW playing live on "Jimmy Fallon," with spot-on harmonies and energy that seemed lacking on "Soundcheck."

Make the big 'Switch'

Here's a quick video review of the book "Switch: How to Change Things When Change is Hard," by Chip and Dan Heath. Highly recommended reading for anyone who is a manager of a business or people.