If you like batteries or want to learn more about them then this the podcast for you!
If there was a car talk for batteries this would be the show!
We talk small batteries AA;AAA;9 volt; lithium ion/iron phosphate; EVs; Solar generators and more...
What is a battery?
A container consisting of one or more cells, in which chemical energy is converted into electricity and used as a source of power
Jeff and Mike are excited to host Dr. Saad Dara from Mangrove Lithium. Mangrove has developed an electro-chemical lithium refining process that is not only simpler than current methodologies, but also minimizes environmental impacts.
You'll definiltey learn something this week!
Just two guys who like batteries
Get your juice of batteries and stay fully charged
in no more than 35 minutes (we keep the podcast under 35 minutes)
Jeff and Mike hop on the wayback machine and talk a little bit about Episode 1 and the origins of the show. A special thank you, once again, to the work and memory of John B. Goodenough. A review of the most prevalent Lithium Ion battery chemistries today. Mike muses about iron-air batteries. We close with a fun podcast statistic.
Mike and Jeff discuss Jeff's Snow Joe Woes as he moves to a new home in Maine; Lines and decreased winter distance for EVs; Mike explores human power generation with his new "Rock the Bike"; Jeff new Mini-UPS setup.
Jeff and Mike wish everyone a very happy new year. In the first show of 2024, the guys discuss swappable batteries for eBikes; Jeff visits Matt at his shop; repairing EV batteries; Edmunds compared an Kia EV6 to a BMW M2; Cars.com starting to do better at EV presentation (and a shout-out to Recurrent Auto).
Mike and Jeff talk about when EV batteries retire (Honda Clarity and Nissan Leaf); Ororo wear holiday gift options; fast charging your Apple laptop; important battery safety tip!
ILB weather report; can Mike's EcoFlow River Max run a cooktop?; NY City changes renewable zoning to allow more solar; Vinyard Wind 1 coming online "really soon"; Historical battery prices; Lithium ion recycling improvements; Introduction of Dual-Ion Batteries.
Jeff and Mike are excited to host Dr. Saad Dara from Mangrove Lithium. Mangrove has developed an electro-chemical lithium refining process that is not only simpler than current methodologies, but also minimizes environmental impacts. You'll definiltey learn something this week!
Mike and Jeff discuss real-world second life battery usage in California; NASA and batteries that can survive the hostile environment on the planet Venus; exploring the home storage options from Growatt Energy.
Jeff and Mike continue their conversation with Matt Lamontagne of Leo & Son's Auto Repair. We get into the diagnostic tools that Matt uses on a daily basis; thoughts on hybrid electric vehicles; battery upgrades; EV mod's and Matt's opinion of the Corvette eRay.
Mike and Jeff are delighted to welcome back to the show our only 4 time guest (so far), Matt Lamontagne of Leo & Son's Auto Repair. Matt tells us a not so great story about his Mach-E; we discuss the two types of battery systems in EVs; a discussion about hybrids.
Jeff and Mike review a bunch of different ways to cook with battery power. Options from Makita, Aleko, Kadell, a couple from Crockpot, and an amazing travel oven from KickAss Products.
Jeff and Mike welcome certified lithium-ion battery expert, PhD in Mechanical Engineering, and all around great guy, Sergio Mendoza. In this first part of a three part series, Sergio starts off with some battery basics, and then we dig into battery manufacturing and testing, and what we can expect in the future.
Mike and Jeff dig into the BIN. A Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo on Pike's Peak, Apple Support article about battery temperature, Mike found another Mac battery app. Mike udpates us on the progress of the battery shed.
Jeff and Mike are honored to host Scott Case, Co-Founder and CEO of Recurrent Auto. By providing more transparency and confidence in pre-owned electric car transactions, Recurrent's mission is to accelerate the overall adoption of electric vehicles. Today the health of an electric vehicle battery is a black box. Recurrent is working to change that by collaborating with thousands of EV drivers and introducing advanced machine learning.
Mike and Jeff are honored to host Scott Case, Co-Founder and CEO of Recurrent Auto. By providing more transparency and confidence in pre-owned electric car transactions, Recurrent's mission is to accelerate the overall adoption of electric vehicles. Today the health of an electric vehicle battery is a black box. Recurrent is working to change that by collaborating with thousands of EV drivers and introducing advanced machine learning.
Jeff and Mike dive into conditions that can influence the longevity of your battery, especially when it comes to EVs. Batteries in the news.
Mike and Jeff dive DEEP into battery degradation by first explaining some battery basics, then going into the details of both cyclic and calendar aging of lithium ion batteries. Mike has a "Cold Things Found" entry, and there was "not your average speed bump" at Jeff's house.
Jeff and Mike host entrepreneur and founder of Sunbolt, Ian Jones. In the devastating aftermath of Superstorm Sandy, Ian Jones watched as over 8 million homes lost power in 17 states. With thousands of people draining their car batteries to charge their phones, he instinctively recognized the need for an off-grid solution that would provide electricity during major power outages. He founded Sunbolt to create the solution. Sunbolt is the leading manufacturer for solar powered charging solutions, including workstations, tables, and stand-up charging stations.
Mike and Jeff host entrepreneur and founder of Sunbolt, Ian Jones. In the devastating aftermath of Superstorm Sandy, Ian Jones watched as over 8 million homes lost power in 17 states. With thousands of people draining their car batteries to charge their phones, he instinctively recognized the need for an off-grid solution that would provide electricity during major power outages. He founded Sunbolt to create the solution. Sunbolt is the leading manufacturer for solar powered charging solutions, including workstations, tables, and stand-up charging stations.
Jeff and Mike conclude their conversation with Jim Gregory of PedalPC.com. Jim has been powering his laptop, internet (modem + router), and web server for the last 10 years using a custom rig that he designed, built, and evolved himself. In this episode we explore the origin story and get into the details of his amazing setup. Head on over to PedalPC.com to see the LIVE battery status!
Mike and Jeff host Jim Gregory of PedalPC.com. Jim has been powering his laptop, internet (modem + router), and web server for the last 10 years using a custom rig that he designed, built, and evolved himself. In this episode we explore the origin story and get into the details of his amazing setup. Head on over to PedalPC.com to see the LIVE battery status!
Jeff and Mike are grateful to have reached episode 100 and reflect on making it to this point. Listen to hear about show statistics, and how we produce the podcast. Then we have a quick discussion of battery costs and what we're looking forward to. And plenty of thanks!
Jeff and Mike had the distinct pleasure to spend some time at the headquarters of Titan Advanced Energy Solutions on the waterfront in Salem, Massachusetts. We received an incredible tour (thanks Jeff Kowalski), and then sat down with Founder and CEO, Shawn Murphy, for a journey you will not want to miss. This is part 1 of 2 (or maybe 3?) episodes.
Mike and Jeff discuss different ways to test your batteries, including one unique way that involves nothing more than a table top and gravity.
Jeff and Mike dive deeper into battery recycling, especially Single Use Batteries (SUBs). Should there be a deposit on single use cells? They also touch on battery safety.
Mike and Jeff chat about some leaking alkaline batteries that Jeff came across, and then they get on their soapboxes and talk about battery recycling. Much more to come on that!
Jeff and Mike re-visit the current offerings of some of their previous guests (FYI: powerful stuff!). Jeff is compelled to correct Mike on a "po-tay-toe" vs "po-tah-toe" thing.
Mike and Jeff discuss battery safety and start learning about what to do in the case of a thermal event. Jeff compares "fuel" costs of his Cayman with a Taycan (and other EVs).
Jeff shares with Mike the details of his latest home WiFi and mini-UPS adventure. Jeff learns an interesting tidbit about his M1 MacBook Air's power draw. We respond to a listener's twitter post.
Mike and Jeff explore battery capacity loss during longer term storage, and what it takes for batteries to fly.
Jeff and Mike talk about Father's Day, and then get into some car-related batteries in the news as well as a discussion about different ways to compare BEV's. Mini-UPS, revisited.
Matt Lamontangne makes his second "appearance" on the show and helps Mike and Jeff answer some listener questions about EV batteries.
Mike tells Jeff about his visit to see Matt Lamontangne at Leo & Son's. A new segment in the making? Is anyone interested in an iLikeBatteries YouTube channel?
With the arrival of Summer, Mike and Jeff see what they can discover about battery powered coolers, refrigerators, and freezers. Some of them are definitely cooler than others.
Jeff and Mike dig deep into the origins of the Universal Serial Bus and how it relates to data transfer and power delivery.
How much can U charge with our USB?
Part 2 of Jeff and Mike's coversation with YouTube creators and podcast hosts Alex Sibila and Brandan Boggs. In this episide we get to know a little bit more about Alex's Model 3 and Brandan's Bolt. They both have stared range anxiety in the face...listen to see how that turned out.
Jeff and Mike host Alex Sibila and Brandan Boggs to discuss all things EV. Alex and Brandan are electric vehicle enthusiasts who share a passion for education and content production. They each run an EV-focused YouTube channel, and host a new podcast together called Living Electric. We had so much fun chatting that Part 2 will drop next week.
Mike and Jeff touch on batteries both large and small in this episode. We talk about Porsche's battery aspirations, the NEEAA.org meetup that Jeff attended, repurposing and recycling all types of batteries, and the A23 and how that might lead you to wanting a talking Bob Ross bobblehead.
Jeff and Mike host Bryan Bautista of ExpertPower to discuss their numerous product offerings in the battery space. We talk about their replacement batteries, and mid-sized and large power stations.
Mike and Jeff host Matt Lamontagne from Leo & Sons Auto Repair on South Broadway in Lawrence, MA. Matt takes us on a Hybrid and EV journey from a side we don't often see: out of warranty repair and maintenance. This is a fun episide and we plan to invite Matt back again in the future. Enjoy!
Matt is an ASE Certified Master Technician and holds L1 (Automotive) and L3 (Hybrid) Advanced Level ASE Certifications. Matt specializes in diagnosing and repairing hybrid and electric vehicles and is also holds a Master Hybrid Technician certification by Automotive Career Development Center.
Jeff and Mike discover that most car shopping sites aren't yet up to the task of EV shopping. Jeff has a quick capacity update on his Energizer AAA's.
Jeff and Mike wrap up their conversation with Brandon Barba, a co-worker of Jeff's who just acquired a Model Y in Massachusetts. In part 2, we discuss charging, range anxiety, and mattresses.
Jeff and Mike host Brandon Barba, a co-worker of Jeff's who just acquired a Model Y in Massachusetts. In part 1 we explore Brandon's previous vehicle, his choice of the Model Y, and the purchase process.
Mike and Jeff discuss a better way to talk about EV range and do an off the cuff comparison of some whole house auxiliary battery systems. Jeff offers a quick take on "unboxing" of the Pale Blue Earth AA, 9V and D cells.
Jeff and Mike tie up some loose ends. Jeff "completes" his UPS journey. Heavy hearts are bad. How about an SSB? The Double Whammy. Can your Tile be a retriever retriever?
Mike and Jeff record the episode while Jeff is running on a generator. Does Jeff's internet survive a power outage? More on purchases of power stations, and a powerful thing discussed.
Jeff and Mike discuss the near completion of Jeff's UPS journey. But there's an issue, so they have to re-review some of their previous assumptions. TL;DL: Read the manual BEFORE you buy.
The power station and the Mini UPS arrive, but there are issues. Batteries in the News segment explores phasing out of ICE vehicles. Powerful Stuff Found.
Jeff updates Mike on the progress of his UPS setup. A power station has been ordered and Jeff discovers the Mini UPS, which looks to be the perfect solution for what he needs.
Mike and Jeff explore more traditional UPS options for Jeff's home setup. As you will hear, there are A LOT of options to sort through.
Jeff and Mike explore the possibility of using a portable power station as part of a UPS-style backup system for Jeff's home office setup. The results may surprise you.
Mike and Jeff continue their interview with Tom Bishop, co-founder of Pale Blue Earth. Tom shares his experience with batteries and how Pale Blue gives 1% and more back for the planet
Jeff and Mike host Tom Bishop, co-founder of Pale Blue Earth. Pale Blue is focused on creating a better future by leveraging technology, innovation, and inspired product creation to greatly improve our utilization of energy and resources and greatly reduce the amount of waste we all produce.
In section one of this episode, Mike and Jeff begin exploring Jeff's quest for the best Uninterruptible Power Supply for his home setup. Section two has some surprises, including, believe it or not, battery powered pallet jacks?
Jeff and Mike review some battery powered tools for snow removal and cleanup. Please ignore the intermittent background noise of a tile saw, Jeff is having some work done in an adjascent room.
Mike and Jeff host David Whitlock of Lion Energy. Part 2 of our discussion and some hot info on "the sanctuary" coming soon
Happy Holidays from iLikeBatteries! In this special episode, Jeff and Mike discuss how they got started with the podcast, some behind the scenes details about the show and some things they are thankful for over the year
Mike and Jeff host David Whitlock of Lion Energy. We had a lot to talk about so we're splitting this into two episodes. Enjoy.
Jeff and Mike follow up on Black Friday deals as we prepare for the holiday gift giving season. They explore gifts under $25, under $100 and under $500. Some nice surprises are unwrapped.
Mike and Jeff round out the heated clothing episodes discussing heated pants.
Mike and Jeff interviewed David Whitlock of Lion Energy today. Lion Energy launched their 12 days of Christmas event today and we didn't want you to miss out.Visit www.LionEnergy.com for more details. Enjoy these Powerful Deals!
Mike and Jeff share their holiday wish lists, including some Black Friday deals you might want to consider. Gifts always welcome.
Jeff and Mike explore a battery machine learning journey Jeff went on last week as it relates to a possible future version of FruitJuice.
Jeff and Mike wake up to the idea of battery powered mugs for coffee, tea and other hot and cold "beverages".
Mike and Jeff take on the "accessories" category of battery powered heated "clothing". Stay warm out there!
Jeff and Mike survey the options for keeping your core warm with heated jackets, vests and base layers. And More!
Mike and Jeff investigate, in close to real-time, battery-powered accessories to keep your feet warm.
Jeff and Mike attempt to get a handle on the myriad of options in the heated glove market.
As cooler weather depends upon New England, Mike and Jeff give an overview of a product segment they recently discovered that they believe you'll be hot for. Layering up for future episodes.Powered by Next Episode
Mike and Jeff react to Tesla's Battery Day announcements.Mike and Jeff react to Tesla's Battery Day announcements.
Jeff fills Mike in on the latest with his battery case builds and other purchases. They discuss some UPS options for Jeff's internet setup.
Jeff and Mike expand upon a recent Twitter thread to dive into "chargers" and break down what they are and the many different types of chargers that are around. #NotACarShow
Jeff discusses the current status of his recent battery pack parts acquisitions. Mike updates us on his shed.
Jeff and Mike host Lily and Mia from ROCKPALS who tell us about their battery (and non-battery) powered products for outdoor enthusiasts!
Do you like bigger batteries?
Mike and Jeff review 4 different power stations that are greater than 2000 Watt hours.
Jeff shares his recent battery container shopping experiences with Mike; and why you won't hear about it for quite some time.
Part 2 of our discussion with Dave Nanian as we cover some specific differences in user experience between the Model S and the Taycan. Also, charging infrastructure and the future.
Jeff and Mike host special guest Dave Nanian of Shirt Pocket software as Dave shares his electric vehicle story. We talk about Tesla Model S, BMW i3 and Porsche Taycan.
Mike and Jeff break down a handful of 500 Watt portable power stations, discussing features and options and which one might be the best for you.
Jeff and Mike close the gap on inductive charging.
We break down the history of the Qi charger
Jeff had some non-charging rechargeable batteries, buys some toys to diagnose the issues and has a surprising result. Mike changes a car battery.
Jeff and Mike discuss current battery events (pun intended).
They are out of this world (although in the same solar system)
Mike and Jeff review a number of battery packs and talk about price per milliamp-hour (among other things).
The 18650 battery is in more places than you know. Jeff and Mike explore this popular lithium-ion cell.
Mike and Jeff talk about inverters and how they relate to batteries.
Do you have the correct rating or is there too much noise in your signal?
Have you ever wondered what light temperature was ideal for when you're eating breakfast? Mike and Jeff didn't know this was a thing until this episode.
Special guest Gregory Adams from Nature's Generator joins Mike and Jeff to discuss their line of solar and wind powered generator/portable power centers.
Mike and Jeff speak with Charlie Blair, Co-Founder and General Manager at Gravitricity, a novel energy storage solution company. All the way from Edinburgh!
Gravitricity
Mike and Jeff explore things surrounding charging items in your car, and alternate between calling it an outlet and a socket. Which is your preference?
Mike and Jeff speak with Shaun Pirie, Product Design Manager with Deciwatt https://deciwatt.global about their unique approach to product design and the sometimes extreme constraints under which their products must perform.
Shaun Pirie with
The NowLight
Mike and Jeff with some follow-ups to last week's episode. Batteries in the news. Battery powered lawn equipment and why Jeff needs to go shopping.
Gravity Powered Batteries?
Mike and Jeff get weighed down with the notion of the gravity battery and discuss their potential. Also, a brief batteries in the news segment. Plus a Gravity Light?
Batteries in the News. Mike has a vision, about a shed. We dedicate some air to battery powered cooling devices.
Mike and Jeff chat about eBikes and muse about what Tesla might be announcing next week.
Jeff and Mike offer up suggestions for how to properly dispose of your spent batteries, and they discover the Oxford Electric Bell.
Also, batteries in the news.
Mike and Jeff dig into Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) and why you might want to consider getting one if you don't already own one.
Our apologies for a technical issue that resulted in us losing our recording for this week. We'll be back next week with a full show.
We dug into the following articles:
Solid State Batteries; Best Portable Chargers/Power BanksSolar Energy System uses Aluminum to Store EnergyThanks for your patience.
Send us questions at: power@ilikebatteries.com
Jeff and Mike continue their discussion of electric vehicles (EVs) and dig into lithium mining.
Mike and Jeff scratch the surface of battery-powered vehicles; including a little bit of history.
Goal Zero Part 2
We finish our talk with Bill Harmon
General Manager of Goal Zero
about the future of batteries and Goal Zero products to come.
Goal Zero Part 1
We talk with Bill Harmon
General Manager of Goal Zero
about the company, batteries
and other fun stuff like bikes
Don't be the one to close the Loop
Good safety Tips
Types of Chargers; USB 2; USB C
Jeff Goes Skiing
How Many Newtons in a Fig Newton
We talk the physics of Power
Try to Contain Yourself
Jeff replaces his car battery
Mike and Jeff Talk A;AA;AA
We discuss all this and much more...
STAY FULLY CHARGED!!!