

Transistor Radio
Doug Dylan Jon Jordan
A bi-monthly podcast where we have a short Chip Chat about Transistors! Semiconductors are one of the most fundamental technologies of our time, yet are often under-discussed or misunderstood. We want to chat about them (and other things). Come learn some more about Semiconductors!
Episodes
Mentioned books

26 snips
May 29, 2025 • 34min
Episode 35: What Nvidia's CFO is Wearing, EDA, Middle East Talk
The podcast kicks off with a funny take on a CFO's fashion choices at a tech event, blending humor with corporate culture. The discussion shifts to insights on demand forecasting, debating data versus intuition in leadership. Listeners learn about the recent Electronic Design Automation tool ban on China and its controversial implications. Finally, the hosts delve into a significant U.S.-Middle Eastern deal in GPU production, exploring its impact on AI and the semiconductor landscape amidst geopolitical tensions.

38 snips
Apr 18, 2025 • 37min
Episode 34: Huawei, H20, and Tariffs
The hosts dive into Huawei's technological dominance, discussing their cutting-edge chips and the geopolitical tensions surrounding tech trade with China. They humorously tackle the controversial ban on open-source software and its implications for international competition. The conversation gets quirky as they explore tariffs and suggest eccentric ways to revitalize U.S. tech manufacturing. Additionally, they delve into the advanced capabilities of the O3 AI model and share lighthearted anecdotes about their Gmail frustrations, all while keeping the vibe entertaining.

91 snips
Apr 8, 2025 • 50min
Episode 33: Tariff Sadness
Engage in a lively discussion about tariffs in the clothing industry, featuring companies like Haynes and Uniqlo. Explore the shifting landscape of American manufacturing and the potential impact on the U.S. dollar's status. Navigate labor challenges linked to nearshoring and immigration policies. Enjoy a satirical take on social security and healthcare debates. Delve into economic dynamics, AI insights, and market musings filled with irony. This lively chat blends humor with sharp analysis to keep you entertained and informed!

32 snips
Mar 26, 2025 • 50min
Episode 32: Nvidia GTC, Intel, Goated Chinese Robots, Coreweave
The hosts dive into the latest Nvidia GTC event, sharing hilarious networking tales and highlighting groundbreaking innovations like the NBL 576 system. They reflect on their personal experiences with LASIK eye surgery and the humorous side of outpatient procedures. Discussions on Intel's competitive struggles in the semiconductor space reveal both challenges and advancements. With playful banter, they explore the implications of Gemini 2.5 for AI technology while shedding light on Malaysia's role in the chip industry and the evolving landscape of robotics.

60 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 43min
Episode 31: The Boys Make a Space Fab
Dylan, Doug, and Jon dive into the fascinating world of fabricating chips in space and the crucial role Taiwan plays in the semiconductor industry. They share a humorous take on K-dramas and explore the complexities of YouTube's algorithms. The discussion flows to innovative cooling techniques and the future of space manufacturing. A whimsical idea about recycling water in space sparks laughter, while geopolitical energy dynamics capture attention, shedding light on European energy trends and investment opportunities.

12 snips
Feb 6, 2025 • 45min
Episode 30: Ranking the AI Labs, Ten Thousand Steve Jobs in a Coffee Machine
Discover the latest on Google's surprising earnings and its ambitious AI direction, complete with a dash of past missteps. Dive into the competitive landscape of AI labs, rating leaders like OpenAI, Google, and Meta through the lens of quirky anecdotes. Explore the rise of AI agents revolutionizing daily tasks, alongside China's tech surge and the witty parallels to historical colonialism. Finally, ponder Apple's future as Tim Cook’s leadership faces challenges and innovation takes center stage, all wrapped in humor and intrigue.

7 snips
Jan 4, 2025 • 52min
Episode 29: Christmas, Deepseek v3, Al Pastor, Microplastics
Delve into a wild Christmas adventure filled with laughter and personal stories. Discover the fascinating world of Deepseek V3 and its role in the evolving AI landscape. Engage in a hilarious culinary debate comparing Al Pastor and shawarma, examining their cultural roots. Finally, tackle the pressing issue of microplastics and their impact on our environment. It's a blend of humor, culture, and insightful discussions that will leave you both entertained and informed!

4 snips
Nov 26, 2024 • 37min
Episode 28: Top 3 Stories of Semiconductors 2024
Delve into the exciting world of 2024's semiconductor landscape! The hosts engage in a humorous take on industry acquisitions and share personal stories about work-life balance. Discover the surprising revival of American manufacturing and hear about Samsung's challenges amid leadership changes. Explore the impact of AI on market dynamics and the notable rise of companies like NVIDIA. Finally, discuss how political shifts could reshape the industry, with a nod to Taiwan's essential role in manufacturing.

Oct 30, 2024 • 39min
Episode 27: Intel, Nuclear, and China WFE
Humor takes center stage as the speakers lampoon Intel's ongoing struggles with its delayed 18A technology. Insights into the semiconductor industry reveal how Chinese manufacturing impacts global competitiveness. They humorously tie semiconductor challenges to nuclear power, addressing project management and regulatory hurdles. The camaraderie shines through playful banter, with amusing anecdotes from their group chat. They also delve into industry dynamics, touching on AMD and NVIDIA, and lament the intricate landscape of compliance in tech sales.

Oct 9, 2024 • 39min
Episode 26: Nuclear, Samsung
Note: I apologize, my audio is a bit quiet. Not sure what happened but my whole onside recording got messed and I had to recover from cloud recording.
In today's episode, we talk about recording with Dwarkesh, nuclear reactors, and ask what is going on with Samsung?


