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 Home Gadget Geeks, I reconnect with Jay Franze, an accomplished podcaster and author, to explore the intersection of technology and personal interests. Our conversation kicks off with a playful discussion about the weather in Kentucky compared to Nebraska, which sets a lighthearted tone as we transition into tech talk.



Jay shares his insights into the world of country music podcasts, where he reviews and interviews various artists, including rising stars and industry veterans. His passion for music shines through as he highlights his recent work and shares that his co-host has brought a new dynamic to the show. We dive deep into the themes of his latest project, his fifth book, titled “Stand Out or Fade Out,” which offers strategies for success in the competitive Nashville music scene. Jay explains how his journey as an author began serendipitously while he was caring for his ailing mother, leading to unexpected opportunities and recognition in his field.



The discussion naturally leads to technology, where we touch on Jay’s recent quest for the perfect production computer. As he contemplates between a Mac Mini, Mac Studio, and MacBook Pro, he reflects on the changing landscape of personal computing and what that means for content creators like himself. I share my perspectives on how essential it is to keep up with modern hardware advancements, particularly when it comes to music production.



We further explore the world of solar generators, a topic that’s piquing interest across various domains, from home use to outdoor adventures. Jay’s curiosity about solar technology leads to a lively dialogue on energy efficiency, with him asking questions about the benefits of solar panels and their longevity. I share my recent experiences with both EcoFlow and Bluetti solar power systems, discussing their real-world applications, performance, and how they could benefit those looking to power devices while camping or during power outages.



Next, we switch gears and discuss home improvement projects, including Jay’s ambition to create a fire pit in his backyard. He humorously shares the “crop circle” effect created by a kiddie pool as a catalyst for finally getting the project approved by his wife. This leads to a broader discussion on home automation and outdoor tech for leisure spaces.



Towards the end of our conversation, Jay provides an update on his podcast guests, revealing exciting interviews with both established and emerging country music artists, and the significance of building relationships in the industry. We then circle back to technology, focusing on the modern smart home appliances and the innovations enhancing efficiency and comfort in daily life.



In conclusion, this episode intertwines personal stories and technological insights, showcasing how our experiences shape our professional endeavors and inspire our projects. Jay’s journey from podcaster to author adds depth to the discussion, illustrating the power of creativity and adaptability in the ever-evolving tech landscape. Tune in to gain valuable insights into both music and technology that could transform your own creative pursuits.







Full show notes,