Gavin Campbell joins me this week to discuss home automation, focusing on the Home Assistant platform. We explore seasonal impacts on automation, the importance of using entity IDs for easy device replacements and share personal experiences with smart technology. Gavin introduces innovative AI applications for improved security and highlights user-friendly solutions like Zooz smart switches. Thanks for listening! Full show notes, transcriptions...

Bob Buskirk and Ryan Kerschner from ThinkComputers.org join this week as we discuss the latest consumer technology. We review Intel’s new Core Ultra processors and their efficiency compared to AMD, while addressing the challenges of ARM technology in enterprise computing. We explore consumer preferences, noting the divide between hardcore gamers and everyday users. Bob also highlight the MSI Datamag portable SSD for content creators, and we wrap up discussing the Shure MV6 Gaming Mic as well...

Mike Wieger is my guest this week! Mike shares his experience with MeshTastic, a mesh networking system, noting a significant increase in nodes in Omaha and their use for local communication. He also discusses running a local instance of ChatGPT using Ollama and Open Web UI, highlighting its benefits for privacy and local processing. Additionally, Mike talks about using Frigate, a Docker container for security cameras, and its integration with Home Assistant. Thanks for...

Dan LeFebvre from the Based on a True Story podcast about the benefits of using teleprompters, specifically the Elgato model. Dan shares insights on technology’s evolution in video production, the significance of eye contact, and the potential role of AI in content creation. We also reflect on the art of storytelling in podcasts. To wrap up, Dan invites listeners to check out his upcoming episode featuring Lou Vero, offering behind-the-scenes stories from the “Miracle on Ice” in sports...

This week, I share my journey in questioning my personal data management, spurred by an unexpected failure of my Morrow Data Box. This experience pushed me to prioritize valuable data and confront the issue of digital hoarding, leading to the deletion of outdated files and a streamlined approach to storage as well as some price and plan updates at Unraid. I also discuss some advancements in voice cloning technology via Eleven Labs, exploring its potential and ethical implications for content...

Marv Bee joined me this week as we discussed backup solutions, with Jim considering using a Synology box to access data on Backblaze B2. Marv recommends Synology for its performance and ease of use. We also compare earbuds, with Marv finding Apple’s wired earbuds as good as Bose’s wireless ones. Finally, we discussed the cost-effectiveness of Apple’s earbuds and the benefits of having multiple sets for different locations. Thanks for listening! Full show...

Christian Johnson joins me this week as we talk about home technology trends, starting with seasonal changes and their effects on our gardens. We discuss AI’s role in enhancing podcast show notes and dive into cybersecurity, highlighting a recent CrowdStrike incident that underscores software reliability issues. As Christian prepares for fatherhood, we look forward to ‘baby tech’ innovations for new parents and debate operating system security vulnerabilities among Windows, Mac, and Linux. We...

Jay Franze is my guest this week. We talk about smart home technology and the benefits of energy-efficient gadgets, particularly in air conditioning. We share personal experiences with DIY home wiring, weighing the pros and cons of tackling electrical projects. We dive into the latest trends in streaming services, discussing the recent StreamYard acquisition and comparing alternatives like Riverside and Zoom. Our conversation also touches on the evolution of content consumption, highlighting...

T.J. Huddleston from HomeTech.fm returns to discuss his latest home automation projects. He shares insights on adaptive lighting systems that enhance comfort and energy efficiency and explores smart irrigation techniques using the Aquaflower device. T.J. highlights the importance of outdoor automation, including smart outdoor fans, and addresses ongoing electrical upgrades with Emporia Energy for monitoring electricity use. He also teases future episodes focused on home theater technology and...

Mike Wieger is my guest this week. Mike shares his experience installing a generator outlet and interlock kit for backup power, detailing the wiring and safety measures. He also talks about using a Jackery portable battery for minor power outages. Jim plans to upgrade his generator to 50 amps and discusses the cost and benefits of different power solutions. They also explore the Mesh Tastic project, a DIY off-grid communication system using LoRa radios, which can create a mesh network for...

It’s a solo show this week. Last week’s show was canceled due to a 100-hour power outage at theAverageGuy.tv studios. What did I do? What gadgets did we use? How did it go and how did we stay cool? All that and plenty of links in the show notes. Thanks for listening! Full show notes, transcriptions (available on request), audio and video at http://theAverageGuy.tv/hgg618 Join Jim Collison / @jcollison for show #618 of Home Gadget Geeks, brought to...

Mark Robson is my guest this week. We discussed various topics, including extreme weather patterns in Canada, grilling and cast iron cooking techniques, barbecue techniques and ingredients, and culinary creativity and experimentation. Mark shared his experiences and insights on using high-quality charcoal, proper airflow, and experimentation to find the right cooking methods for individual preferences. Mark emphasized the importance of trying new things and experimenting with different...

Gavin Campbell from HomeTech.fm podcast is my guest this week. We discussed various topics, including severe weather preparedness, home automation, tech updates, data storage, and 3D printing. Gavin shared his experiences and recommendations, highlighting the importance of being prepared for severe weather events, investing in reliable backup power sources, and upgrading to high-end 3D printers for improved print quality and faster print speeds. Thanks for...

Jay Mattison is my guest this week. Jay discussed the latest gadgets, smart home automation, laptops, and processing power. He also talked about camera technology, including wireless microphones and road pros, and the limitations of wireless data transfer. He shared his preferences for audio equipment and home automation, and discussed the potential of large language models like ChatGPT. Thanks for listening! Full show notes, transcriptions (available on...

Ed Sullivan joins me this week! We discussed his collection of Apple devices, including an iMac Pro, 16” MacBook Pro, iPhone 12 Pro, and Apple Watch Series 8. We discuss his decision to purchase his first iPad, a 13” 1TB model with nano-texture glass and a Magic Keyboard. We cover the accessories and apps he bought for the iPad, enhancing its streaming and productivity functionality at home and on the road. Ed also predicts Jim’s next Mac, can you guess what it is? Thanks for...

Dr. Adam Hickman is my guest this week. Adam is the Vice President of Org Development and Cast Members at Partners, a Walt Disney Company, and a former co-worker of mine at Gallup. We catch up over drinks and then dive into the show. We discuss The X3 Bar, a highly effective strength-training device using variable resistance to build muscle faster than traditional weights and other home exercise equipment. We also explore ionbottles®, advanced hydrogen water generating bottles designed in...

Erin Lawrence from Tech Gadgets Canada joined me this week. We delved into a variety of tech topics, starting with the Birdfy Hum Feeder, where Erin shared her mixed experiences, praising the seed feeder but expressing disappointment with the Hum feeder’s performance. Moving on to the Kamado Connected Joe smart charcoal grill, Erin’s review highlighted its impressive capabilities, transforming her into a confident cook despite her initial reservations about charcoal grilling. Lastly, we...

In one of my favorite episodes yet this year, we catch up with Rich Hay. Rich talks about his decision to purchase a VW EV and all that he has loved about it (that was in preshow, now at the end). In the show, we catch up with Rich and talk about what he has been up to over the last 2 years. He talks about his purchase of the Vaonis Vespera Passengers and how much it has made looking at the stars so much easier. We also talk about how Jim found his idea of a pop-up drone security device that...

My guest this week is Gretchen Schoenstein, a half marathon enthusiast who has completed more than one hundred half marathons. With unwavering dedication and passion, Gretchen has conquered diverse courses, inspiring countless others with her determination. Join us as we delve into Gretchen’s remarkable journey, celebrating her as a light in the running community and those she serves who are suffering! Thanks for listening! Full show notes,...

Marv Bee from ITBusinessPodcast.com joins me this week as we open the show with listener email. Some thoughts on routers, printers, Subaru upgrades and home server storage. We wrap the show with the question, “Is the PC dead?” Marv is not too sure, and Jim says yes. What say you? Thanks for listening! Full show notes, transcriptions (available on request), audio and video at http://theAverageGuy.tv/hgg608 Join Jim Collison / @jcollison for show...

This week I have Gavin Campell, TJ Huddleston and Seth Johnson, hosts of the HomeTech Podcast at HomeTech.fm and we discuss the current state of the home tech market, including challenges and strategies for hiding technology in home theater installations, integrating various smart home devices and systems, and the benefits and drawbacks of robot lawn mowers. They also shared their experiences with USB power and cable management, highlighting the need for longer cables and the potential of...

Christian Johnson from MapleGrovePartners.com joins me this week. We open the show with some talk of the current state of hard drives and ask Christian what NAS he would buy in 2024. We talk about the current state of Wifi as well as some of the benefits of private 5G. We wrap it with a little AI discussion. Thanks for listening! Full show notes, transcriptions (available on request), audio and video at http://theAverageGuy.tv/hgg606 Join Jim...

Jay Fraze from https://jayfranze.com/ is my guest. In this episode, cover listener feedback from last week. Jay has purchased a new Rode Wireless Pro mic set and a Zoom H6 and we get an update on Jay’s fire pit. Also, Jim is looking at a new Gazebo. Full show notes, transcriptions (available on request), audio and video at http://theAverageGuy.tv/hgg605 Join Jim Collison / @jcollison for show #605 of Home Gadget Geeks, brought to you by the...

I’m back in action after a much-needed Spring Break, and let me tell you, it’s been a whirlwind! With April 15th looming over our heads, I’ll dish out some insights into how I tackled my taxes and how it threw a wrench into my productivity. Plus, I’ve got some great news on the health front post-surgery—yep, December 5th feels like a lifetime ago, but I’m happy to report that all is well. And hey, we’ll also take a quick dive into the Hum Feeder from Birdfy because, you know me, always on the...