Erin Lawrence joins me this week for a wide-ranging conversation on home, lawn, and automotive gadgets. We dig into the future of lawn care with the Segway Navimow robot lawn mower, discuss battery brand ecosystems in power tools, and explore must-have car tech like portable jump starters and tire inflators. Erin shares her innovative smart blinds laundry room makeover, reviews fun kitchen gadgets like the Ninja Creami soft serve maker and slushy machines, and talks about her Mazda CX-50 Hybrid test drive. The duo also cover solar power considerations for RVs, portable power stations for off-grid camping, and what’s next in Erin’s review pipeline. Thanks for listening!

In this episode, I have a vibrant discussion with Erin Lawrence, an expert in tech gadgets, as we dive deep into various innovative products that enhance our everyday lives. We start by touching upon the recent weather conditions in our respective locations, with a humorous nod to the smoke that’s been affecting air quality, prompting some playful banter about its source.

Erin shares insights into her latest endeavors with Tech Gadgets International, highlighting her shift in branding to capture a more international audience as her subscriber base grows. We celebrate the milestone of her approaching 100,000 YouTube subscribers and discuss her planned giveaway to mark this achievement, showcasing the exciting community she has built around tech reviews.

The conversation pivots to robotic lawnmowers, specifically focusing on the Segway Navimo model. Erin explains the hassle-free setup without needing boundary wires, a common frustration in earlier robotic models. Her firsthand experiences with mapping her lawn and the intuitive technology behind this mower illustrate a major leap in gardening tech—moving from wired restrictions to advanced AI-driven systems that effortlessly adapt to user input. We also touch on battery safety in devices like these and the importance of ensuring counterfeit products are avoided.

Transitioning from lawns to cars, we chat about the latest in automotive technology, including portable jump starters and tire inflators, with Erin sharing her practical experiences and tips on maintaining these devices. The agility of these gadgets being multifunctional yet compact makes them essential for road trips and emergencies—elements that resonate well with fellow tech enthusiasts.

As our conversation flows, we delve into the aesthetics and functionality of home automation, particularly Erin’s creative use of smart blinds to enhance her laundry room’s appearance by concealing unsightly ductwork. The integration of these blinds with voice assistants exemplifies how technology can simplify our daily routines and elevate home design.

Our discussion shifts to culinary technology as well, as Erin dives into her review of the Ninja Creamy, a device that churns out soft-serve ice cream from home. She describes the ease of use and the joy it brings during testing, reconnecting with her nostalgic memories of working in an ice cream shop. The versatility of this product, alongside the recipes that accompany it, showcases the growing trend of gadgetry in modern kitchens.

Lastly, Erin touches on her recent trials with hybrid and electric vehicles, sharing her insights from testing a Mazda CX-50 hybrid. She elaborates on the performance of modern hybrids, the upfront challenges of battery life in extreme weather, and the evolving landscape of car technology.

This episode not only celebrates Erin’s journey and achievements in the tech space but also equips listeners with valuable insights into the gadgets that can elevate their homes, gardens, and lifestyles. Check out Tech Gadgets International and Erin’s YouTube channel to witness firsthand the incredible discoveries she’s making in the realm of technology.

Full show notes, transcriptions (available on request), audio and video at http://theAverageGuy.tv/hgg655

Join Jim Collison / @jcollison for show #655 of Home Gadget Geeks, brought to you by the Average Guy Network.

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Links

Chapters

[0:07] – Welcome to Home Gadget Geeks

[1:44] – RTF Water Saver Sod

[3:24] – Power Tools and Batteries

[5:58] – Erin’s New Trailer Project

[8:48] – Celebrating YouTube Milestones

[10:32] – Community Engagement in Podcasts

[10:56] – Robot Lawn Mowers

[18:46] – Future of Lawn Care Technology

[26:23] – Automotive Gadgets: Jump Starters

[31:09] – Portable Tire Inflators

[38:51] – Emergency Car Tech Essentials

[40:01] – Fire Extinguishers and Safety

[50:24] – Smart Blinds for Laundry Rooms

[53:35] – The Ninja Creamy: Soft Serve Maker

[57:59] – Slushy Machines and More Gadgets

[59:38] – Car Reviews: Mazda CX-50 Hybrid

[1:03:37] – Solar Power Considerations

[1:06:36] – Portable Power Stations for RVs

[1:10:00] – Upcoming Tech Reviews and Giveaways

Summary

• Home Gadget Geeks Show Introduction and Guest Introduction[0:00]
  • Jim Collison introduces the Home Gadget Geeks show, mentioning the date and location of the recording.
  • Jim welcomes guest Erin Lawrence and jokes about the smoke from Canada.
  • Erin Lawrence humorously apologizes for the smoke and blames Canada.
  • Jim mentions the show notes available on the average guy.tv website and thanks listeners for using the affiliate link.
• Discussion on RTF Water Saver Sod[1:49]
  • Jim Collison talks about a segment on RTF Water Saver sod, a new kind of grass that self-heals.
  • Erin Lawrence admits she hasn’t heard of RTF seed before and confirms it’s not actual grass but a type of turf.
  • Jim explains the benefits of RTF grass, including its ability to self-repair and the commercial he heard about it.
  • Jim thanks Gavin Campbell for bringing up the topic of RTF grass on the previous show.
• Tool Brand Mafia and Power Tool Market[3:24]
  • Jim Collison shares a graphic sent by Peter about the parent companies of various tool brands.
  • Jim explains how different companies own multiple tool brands, such as Stanley, Irwin, and Black and Decker.
  • Jim emphasizes the importance of buying batteries from reputable sources to avoid counterfeits.
  • Erin Lawrence agrees and mentions the high cost of batteries makes them a target for counterfeits.
• Erin Lawrence’s Busy Season and New Projects[5:58]
  • Erin Lawrence updates Jim on her busy season, including testing new products and writing articles.
  • Erin mentions her new project of renovating a trailer and creating a YouTube series about it.
  • Jim congratulates Erin on her upcoming milestone of reaching 100,000 YouTube subscribers.
  • Erin plans to celebrate with a live stream or AMA session on YouTube.
• Review of Segway NaVi Robot Lawn Mower[10:55]
  • Erin Lawrence reviews the Segway NaVi robot lawn mower, highlighting its no-wire feature.
  • Erin explains the setup process, including mapping the yard and using the phone as a joystick.
  • Erin shares a funny mistake she made while trying to drive the mower.
  • Erin discusses the benefits of the Segway NaVi, including its smart technology and ability to cut the lawn in different directions each week.
• Comparison of Robot Lawn Mowers and Future Technology[16:33]
  • Jim Collison and Erin Lawrence discuss the evolution of robot lawn mowers, from wired to GPS to LIDAR technology.
  • Erin mentions the Segway NaVi’s ability to map the yard and its use of satellite GPS.
  • Jim talks about the potential for robot lawn mowers to handle obstacles like branches and weeds.
  • Erin shares her experience with the Ecovacs Goat robot lawn mower and its dual cutting array.
• Smart Blinds for Laundry Room Organization[40:17]
  • Erin Lawrence reviews the Smart Wings smart blinds, which she used to hide ductwork in her laundry room.
  • Erin explains the process of ordering and installing the blinds, including attaching them to the ceiling.
  • Erin highlights the benefits of the smart blinds, such as voice control through Alexa and the ability to hide clutter.
  • Jim Collison and Erin discuss the potential for using smart blinds to manage sunlight and temperature in the home.
• Ninja Swirl by Creamy: At-Home Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker[52:19]
  • Erin Lawrence reviews the Ninja Swirl by Creamy, an at-home soft serve ice cream maker.
  • Erin describes the two-part process of making ice cream, including freezing ingredients and pressing them into soft serve.
  • Erin shares her experience with the machine, including the fun of making ice cream daily.
  • Jim Collison and Erin discuss the potential for the Ninja Swirl to make lactose-free and dairy-free ice cream.
• CX 50 Hybrid Review and Electric Vehicle Considerations[58:31]
  • Erin Lawrence reviews the Mazda CX 50 hybrid SUV, sharing her positive experience with the vehicle.
  • Erin discusses her affinity for Mazda and her first car, which was also a Mazda.
  • Erin highlights the performance of the hybrid, including its power and comfort.
  • Jim Collison and Erin discuss the challenges of electric vehicles in cold weather and the need for road trips.
• Portable Power Stations and Solar Power for Camping[1:04:58]
  • Erin Lawrence talks about her plans to use a portable power station and solar panels for her camper trailer.
  • Erin explains the benefits of portable power stations, including their ability to recharge from solar panels.
  • Jim Collison and Erin discuss the potential for using solar generators and power packs for camping.
  • Erin mentions the structural issues with her trailer’s roof and her preference for portable solar solutions.
• Upcoming Reviews and Tech Gadgets International[1:08:05]
  • Erin Lawrence mentions upcoming reviews, including a Lenovo Yoga Book and a Samsung Smart Monitor.
  • Erin shares her excitement about the new Samsung Smart Monitor, which doubles as a TV and entertainment screen.
  • Jim Collison and Erin discuss the advancements in technology and the improvements in smart blinds and robot lawn mowers.
  • Erin highlights the importance of staying updated with new gadgets and technologies.
• Review of Samsung M9 Monitor and Frame TV Pro[1:09:09]
  • Erin Lawrence discusses her review of the Samsung M9 monitor, comparing it favorably to the Apple Smart Display and noting its affordability.
  • Erin mentions her recent purchase of the Samsung Frame TV Pro 2025 and expresses her excitement about its new features.
  • She reveals that she has identified seven frustrations with the new Frame TV Pro and plans to publish her review soon.
  • Erin advises potential buyers to wait for her review before making a purchase decision.
• Erin’s Upcoming Giveaway and Subscription Promotion[1:10:31]
  • Erin announces a significant giveaway to celebrate reaching 100,000 subscribers, promising multiple giveaways over several days.
  • She encourages her audience to subscribe to her YouTube channel and sign up for her newsletter at techgadgetsinternational.com.
  • Jim Collison and the audience express their excitement and support for Erin’s giveaway.
  • Erin humorously mentions the possibility of more smoke in Ontario, referencing current wildfire conditions.
• Jim’s Solar Project and Home Automation Updates[1:13:14]
  • Jim Collison shares updates on his solar project, including the purchase of MC4 connectors and the plan to custom build a frame for his solar panels.
  • He discusses the potential purchase of the EcoFlow Delta Pro 3 for whole-home backup power, noting its higher cost compared to other options.
  • Jim mentions his ongoing work with AI, specifically CoPilot, for advice on his solar project and other technical decisions.
  • He humorously speculates about the possibility of using a Tesla Powerwall in the future, considering the current cost-effectiveness of solar power.
• Jim’s Upcoming Show Schedule and Audience Interaction[1:18:34]
  • Jim announces his upcoming show schedule, including taking next week off to host a Japanese exchange student and other planned absences.
  • He thanks his audience for their participation and support, mentioning specific viewers who checked in during the show.
  • Jim reiterates his appreciation for Erin Lawrence and her contributions to the show.
  • He provides reminders about contacting the show via email and joining the Discord group for further interaction.

More from ChatGPT

Jim Collison and Erin Lawrence discuss various tech gadgets on the Home Gadget Geeks show. They cover the RTF Water Saver sod, which self-heals and was mentioned by Gavin Campbell. Jim highlights the complexity of the power tool market, with brands like Stanley and Black & Decker under the same parent company. Erin reviews the Segway NaVi robot lawn mower, praising its no-wire feature and smart technology. She also discusses the Ninja Swirl by Creamy, an at-home soft serve ice cream maker. Erin shares her experience with the Mazda CX 50 hybrid SUV and her plans for solar power in her camper trailer. Erin Lawrence discussed her review of the Samsung M9 monitor, which she prefers over the Apple Smart Display. She also reviewed the Samsung Frame TV Pro 2025, noting seven frustrations. Erin announced a significant giveaway to celebrate reaching 100,000 subscribers. Jim Collison shared updates on his solar project, including the purchase of MC4 connectors and the potential acquisition of an EcoFlow Delta Pro 3 for backup power. He also mentioned his upcoming show schedule and the importance of subscribing to Erin’s YouTube channel for updates.

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