The Average Guy Blog and Podcast Network

Jim Collison

The Average Guy Blog and Podcast Network

Podcasting Gadgets Software How-To Tech News Sports & Recreation English

From Facebook to Google, Microsoft to Oracle, Windows to OSX, Android to iPhone, YouTube to LiveStream, iPad to Galaxy Tab, SSD to SATA, Antivirus to Malware, Bing to IE, Cloud Storage to Home Server Storage, Rasperry Pi to Xeon Servers, Drobo to Dropbox, Newegg to Best Buy, we cover it all, for the Average Guy. Don't be intimidated by Technology, learn more about it here! Host Jim Collison and the Guys are LIVE each week on Thursday nights, 8pmC/9E at http://theAverageGuy.tv

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06 September 2025

AI and Assistive Technology in Education: Insights with Dr. Brian Friedlander – HGG657

On this episode of Home Gadget Geeks, I had the chance to sit down with Dr. Brian Friedlander to talk about how AI is changing the landscape of assistive technology. We covered everything from tools like AOA, Brisk, and Magic School AI that support students in the classroom, to innovations in note-taking, E Ink devices, and even brain-computer interfaces. It was a fascinating conversation about...

23 August 2025

Books. Beats. Batteries: Jay Franze with Mac Upgrades and Solar Questions – HGG656

Jay Franze is back, and we talk about his new book, Stand Out or Fade Out. Jay considers upgrading his Mac Mini and shares updates on home projects and a new service dog for his daughter. Jim updates his solar setup, switching to an EcoFlow Delta 3, and they discuss solar power for camping, home use, and RVs, covering costs, efficiency, and practical uses. Thanks for listening! In this episode of...

09 August 2025

Smart Tech, Smarter Conversations: AI, Robot Mowers, and Power On-the-Go with Dave Hamilton – HGG652

Dave Hamilton joins me this week. After a quick Mac lightning round, Dave shares how he uses ChatGPT for long-form conversations while driving and discusses his Eufy Robot Lawn Mower E15, which navigates with onboard cameras and mows daily for a consistently clean lawn. They also review the Ampace Andes 1500 portable power station and the Boost Hero jump starter—both handy tools for outages and...

21 June 2025

The Future of Podcasting? Co-Hosting with an AI – HGG651

This week, I experiment with integrating AI into podcasting by introducing Microsoft’s Co-Pilot, Mick, as a co-host. I dive into the real-world challenges of blending AI with human conversation. Covering everything from audio quality quirks to the absence of non-verbal cues that shape natural dialogue, we unpack the strengths of AI, like consistency, speed, and on-demand knowledge, while also...

14 June 2025

Fiber Wars, Fast Networks, and Smarter Health Tech with Mike Wieger – HGG650

Mike Wieger joins me to talk through the latest in home tech and personal gadgets. We cover his switch from Cox to MetroNet fiber and compare Omaha’s evolving internet options, including T-Mobile and Great Plains. Mike shares his 2.5 and 10 Gbps networking upgrades, covers DIY repairs, and explores self-hosting with Oracle VPS and VPNs via Tailscale. We also break down his experience with the...

07 June 2025

The Fix-It Space: Repairing, Repurposing, and Community Tech Solutions with Kevin Schoonover – HGG649

Kevin Schoonover is my guest this week as we look into the growing “fix-it” movement, exploring how repairing everyday items—like lamps, sewing machines, and coffee makers—can save money and reduce waste. Kevin shares his experience with local fix-it clinics in Minnesota and the rise of repair culture amid economic pressures. We also discuss 3D printing for custom parts, the power of community...

31 May 2025

Tech, Gardens, and Gadgets: A Conversation with TJ Huddleston from HomeTech.fm – HGG648

This week, I am joined by T.J. Huddleston, a home automation pro from HomeTech.fm. We discuss how smart home gear has become significantly more affordable and easier to use, especially compared to the clunky systems of the past. T.J. shares how he’s using smart irrigation in his garden to save time and water, pretty cool stuff for anyone with a green thumb. We also get into the latest in home...