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 security with smarter surveillance cameras and how AI is making all of it more useful and less of a hassle. T.J. gives us the inside scoop on organizing the Home Assistant Community Days and why events like that are key to keeping the smart home world moving forward. He wraps up with a look at what’s next in the automation space, some exciting things on the horizon! Thanks for listening!
In this episode of Home Gadget Geeks, we delve into the fascinating world of home technology with T.J. Huddleston, an expert in home automation and all things gadget-related. We kick things off with light-hearted discussions about gardening, the changing landscape of smart home tech, and the nuances of choosing the right equipment for home automation projects.
We touch on the evolution of home automation, where T.J. shares insights on how recent advances have made devices more accessible and affordable for the average homeowner. He draws comparisons between past high-end home automation systems and today’s cost-effective options, highlighting how consumers can enhance their living spaces without breaking the bank.
The conversation moves towards the practicality of home gardening, exploring T.J.’s experiences with vegetable and flower planting, as well as the challenges posed by local wildlife. We discuss the integration of automation in gardening—specifically, smart irrigation systems that can save time and effort during the busy growing seasons. T.J. elaborates on the smart hoses and timers he uses, which efficiently manage watering schedules according to the weather and soil moisture levels.
In this episode, it’s not just about the gadgets; it’s about the lifestyle enhancements they bring. T.J. also discusses his participation in the Home Assistant Community Days event, where enthusiasts gathered to share ideas and innovations. He recounts his efforts in organizing the event and the collaborative spirit that prevailed among attendees, which speaks to the power of community in the tech world.
T.J. and Jim discuss the latest in home surveillance technology, including how cameras can enhance security and serve hobbyist purposes, like birdwatching. They explore trends in smart security devices—from wired to wireless solutions—and the role of AI in creating more intuitive systems.
To wrap up, T.J. gives listeners a sneak peek into upcoming projects and potential guests on his podcast, HomeTech.fm. He expresses excitement about a range of new technology developments and how they could further shape the home automation landscape.
With insightful tips, humorous anecdotes, and a passion for technology, this episode is packed with valuable information for anyone interested in making their home smarter and gardens more efficient.
Full show notes, transcriptions (available on request), audio and video at http://theAverageGuy.tv/hgg648
Join Jim Collison / @jcollison for show #648 of Home Gadget Geeks, brought to you by the Average Guy Network.
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Links
https://www.home-assistant.io/blog/2025/04/24/community-day
https://www.ecowitt.com/shop/homePage
Chapters
[0:04] – Welcome to Home Gadget Geeks
[2:12] – Following Up on Home Automation
[3:22] – Consumer Tech Complexity
[5:22] – Outdoor TV Strategies
[6:09] – Smart TVs and Their Features
[8:23] – Best Streaming Devices Today
[10:05] – The Monitor Dilemma
[10:52] – HomeTech.fm Updates
[12:35] – Tariffs and Tech Pricing
[16:39] – Home Assistant Community Days
[22:12] – Innovations in Smart Gardening
[26:50] – Embracing Convenience in Photo Management
[30:09] – Gardening Tech: New Innovations
[35:10] – Smart Irrigation Solutions
[41:10] – Lighting Control for Home Automation
[47:09] – Drip Irrigation Dilemmas
[49:23] – Automation and Home Tech
[51:33] – Weather Station Wonders
[56:13] – Landscape Lighting Insights
[59:13] – Skunks and Garden Challenges
[1:01:46] – Gardening Strategies and Challenges
[1:11:49] – Robot Lawnmowers and Automation
[1:28:22] – Home Tech Updates and Changes
Summary
- Home Gadget Geeks Introduction and Show Overview[0:00]
- Jim Collison introduces the Home Gadget Geeks show, focusing on tech gadgets for the average tech guy.
- Jim mentions the weather and gardening topics that might be discussed with TJ Huddleston.
- Jim thanks Patreon subscribers and encourages new subscriptions.
- Jim discusses the Amazon affiliate link and its benefits for the network.
- Apology for Drive Size Error and Introduction of TJ Huddleston[1:20]
- Jim apologizes for incorrectly stating the drive size in a previous recording with Doug Milburn.
- Jim introduces TJ Huddleston, who is joining the show for the first time in a while.
- TJ jokes about following Gavin, who is a frequent guest on the show.
- TJ praises Gavin’s home automation projects and mentions the affordability of his equipment.
- Discussion on Home Automation and Consumer Tech[2:26]
- Jim and TJ discuss the affordability and complexity of home automation equipment.
- TJ compares the home automation space to other technology markets, noting the overwhelming number of options.
- Jim shares his experience with a cheap Fire TV and its slow performance.
- TJ recommends Sony and LG TVs and suggests using an Apple TV for better performance and consistency.
- TV and Streaming Device Recommendations[3:19]
- Jim asks TJ for recommendations on the best TV and streaming device for his setup.
- TJ suggests Sony or LG TVs and recommends an Apple TV for its user-friendly interface and consistent performance.
- Jim mentions his current setup with a NVIDIA Shield and a Google TV, which has been unreliable.
- TJ advises against using a Fire TV due to its slow performance and suggests considering Roku as an alternative.
- Home Tech FM Updates and Tariff Effects[10:27]
- TJ provides updates on Home Tech FM, mentioning ongoing interviews and a segment on tariffs.
- TJ discusses the impact of tariffs on Zoo, a company that makes affordable Z-Wave devices.
- Jim and TJ talk about the potential price increases for consumer electronics due to tariffs.
- Jim mentions the retailers’ response to tariffs and the potential for price increases in the retail space.
- Home Assistant Community Day Event Recap[14:20]
- TJ shares details about the Home Assistant Community Day event he hosted in Columbus, Ohio.
- The event featured a brewery visit, product giveaways, and discussions about home automation.
- TJ mentions the participation of companies like Inovelli, Zoo, and Apollo Automation.
- TJ discusses the positive feedback and potential for future events.
- Gardening Tech and Landscape Lighting[30:05]
- TJ shows before and after photos of his front and backyard landscaping projects.
- TJ explains the challenges of gardening in a new house with no existing landscaping.
- TJ discusses the use of landscape lighting and smart home automation for outdoor lighting.
- TJ shares his experience with drip irrigation and the challenges of maintaining it.
- Smart Watering and Weather Station Setup[42:55]
- TJ talks about his smart watering system, which connects to Home Assistant and adjusts watering based on weather conditions.
- TJ mentions the use of soil moisture sensors and a weather station to monitor garden conditions.
- Jim and TJ discuss the benefits and challenges of using drip irrigation in different climates.
- TJ shares his setup for landscape lighting, including the use of low-voltage deck lights and Z-Wave outdoor plugs.
- Final Thoughts on Home Automation and Gardening[56:24]
- TJ and Jim discuss the future of home automation and the potential for more advanced irrigation systems.
- TJ mentions the use of dark sky-approved lighting to minimize light pollution.
- Jim shares his thoughts on the maintenance required for drip irrigation and the potential for using more advanced systems.
- TJ and Jim wrap up the discussion, highlighting the importance of smart home technology and efficient gardening practices.
- Outdoor Lighting and Skunks[58:30]
- Jim Collison discusses the durability of solar-powered outdoor lighting, noting that cheaper options may break easily.
- TJ Huddleston shares his experience with skunks in his yard, mentioning how they are not afraid of humans and how they have adapted to having lights on from dusk to dawn.
- Jim and TJ both share stories about skunks in their yards and how they have adapted to their presence.
- TJ mentions that skunks have been digging holes in his yard, which he only recently discovered.
- Irrigation Systems and Gardening Challenges[1:00:15]
- TJ Huddleston talks about the challenges of setting up an irrigation system, mentioning the high cost of professional installation and his willingness to do some plumbing himself.
- Jim Collison shares his experience with gardening in Nebraska, noting the presence of various creatures that eat the plants.
- TJ discusses the use of raised beds and in-ground beds for gardening, mentioning the high cost of raised beds and his decision to use in-ground beds this year.
- Jim and TJ both discuss the types of plants they grow, including tomatoes, peppers, and herbs, and the challenges of protecting them from animals like rabbits and deer.
- Light Pollution and Outdoor Lighting Solutions[1:03:01]
- Jim Collison mentions the impact of light pollution on stargazing and the importance of using appropriate outdoor lighting.
- Jim shares his experience with using tube lighting for deck lights, noting its durability compared to cheaper Christmas lights.
- TJ Huddleston talks about the solar lights he bought for his front yard, which lasted about two years before breaking down.
- Jim and TJ both discuss the importance of investing in quality outdoor lighting to ensure longevity and functionality.
- Robot Lawn Mowers and Automated Gardening[1:05:35]
- TJ Huddleston shares his experience with the Segway Navamo robot lawn mower, mentioning its affordability and effectiveness.
- Jim Collison and TJ discuss the pros and cons of robot lawn mowers, including the need for boundary wires and the potential for damage to plants.
- TJ mentions his use of fabric pots for growing plants and how they allow for better control of watering and plant growth.
- Jim and TJ both discuss the potential for using drip irrigation systems for container gardening and the benefits of automated watering.
- Home Security and Camera Systems[1:20:28]
- TJ Huddleston talks about his use of outdoor cameras for monitoring his yard, including a solar-powered camera from Argus for Pro.
- Jim Collison shares his experience with Ring cameras, noting their durability and effectiveness in outdoor settings.
- TJ discusses the installation of panorama cameras from Uniview, which provide a wide-angle view of his yard and are powered by PoE.
- Jim and TJ both discuss the benefits of using cameras for home security and monitoring, including the ability to see animals and other activity in the yard.
- Future of AI and Home Automation[1:27:56]
- Jim Collison discusses the potential for using AI co-hosts on the podcast, mentioning his experience with the Bing Copilot and its conversational capabilities.
- TJ Huddleston shares his thoughts on the use of AI in home automation and the challenges of integrating AI with existing systems.
- Jim and TJ both discuss the potential for AI to improve home automation and the importance of finding the right balance between technology and practicality.
- Jim mentions the possibility of using AI for scheduling and other tasks, noting the potential for AI to streamline processes and improve efficiency.
- Upcoming Guests and Home Tech FM[1:33:48]
- Jim Collison announces the upcoming guests for the live show, including Kevin Schoonover, Mike Wieger, Seth, and Dave Hamilton from Mac Geek Gab.
- TJ Huddleston talks about the upcoming content on Home Tech FM, including interviews with big names in the technology and home automation space.
- Jim and TJ both encourage listeners to subscribe to Home Tech FM and stay tuned for new episodes and updates.
- Jim thanks TJ for joining the show and wraps up the episode, reminding listeners to join the Discord group and check out the average guy.tv platform for secure and reliable hosting.
More from ChatGPT
?️ Spotlight: HomeTech.fm Podcast – Navigating the Smart Home Landscape
In the dynamic realm of smart home technology, staying informed about the latest trends, devices, and best practices can be a daunting task. Enter the HomeTech.fm Podcast, a weekly show that offers insightful discussions, expert opinions, and practical advice on all things smart home.
? Meet the Hosts
The podcast is currently co-hosted by a trio of home automation professionals:
- Gavin Campbell: Based in Pickering, Ontario, Gavin brings a wealth of experience in home automation, particularly with platforms like Home Assistant. His hands-on approach and technical expertise provide listeners with in-depth knowledge and real-world applications.
- TJ Huddleston: Operating out of Columbus, Ohio, TJ owns an audio-video and security company. His background as an integrator offers valuable insights into the practical aspects of smart home installations and system integrations.(PodScripts)
- Seth Johnson: With a background in software development and project management at Blackware Designs, Seth contributes a unique perspective on the intersection of software and hardware in the smart home ecosystem.(PodScripts)
Together, they deliver a balanced mix of technical depth, industry news, and relatable experiences that cater to both professionals and enthusiasts in the smart home community.
? What to Expect
Each episode of HomeTech.fm delves into various facets of home automation, including:
- Industry News: Updates on the latest developments in smart home technology, product releases, and emerging trends.
- Product Reviews: First-hand experiences and evaluations of new devices, providing listeners with honest assessments to inform their purchasing decisions.
- Technical Deep Dives: Explorations into specific technologies, protocols, and platforms, offering a deeper understanding of how different components interact within a smart home setup.
- Community Engagement: Discussions that incorporate feedback, questions, and experiences from the listener community, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
The hosts’ diverse backgrounds ensure that episodes are rich with varied perspectives, making complex topics accessible without oversimplification.
? Recent Highlights
Some of the recent episodes that showcase the podcast’s breadth include:(Apple Podcasts)
- Episode 529 – Gavin Needs a Pergola: A discussion on preparing for Home Assistant Community Day, new product announcements from Amazon and Aqara, and innovative outdoor lighting solutions.
- Episode 528 – The Best Home Assistant Meetups: Insights into upcoming community events, updates on smart home products, and listener mailbag discussions.
- Episode 527 – A New Birdwatching Hobby: Exploration of new smart home devices, including Ecowitt’s water valve, Unifi’s camera offerings, and the hosts’ experiences with robotic lawn mowers.
These episodes exemplify the podcast’s commitment to covering a wide array of topics relevant to the smart home community.
? Connect with HomeTech.fm
Listeners can tune into the HomeTech.fm podcast through various platforms:
For those interested in engaging further, the podcast offers a Patreon where supporters can gain access to additional content and community discussions.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a newcomer to the world of smart homes, the HomeTech.fm podcast serves as a valuable resource for staying informed and inspired.
If you’d like assistance in crafting promotional materials or integrating this spotlight into your podcast network’s content, feel free to ask!
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Popular Tags: Podcast, Home Gadget Geeks, Jim Collison, T.J. Huddleston, home automation, smart home devices, gardening, smart irrigation, home security, surveillance technology, AI, Home Assistant
