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 WHOOP fitness tracker, from sleep and recovery data to hardware upgrades. Thanks for listening!



















In this episode of Home Gadget Geeks, we dive into a range of captivating topics with Mike Wieger, exploring innovations in home technology and personal gadgets that enhance our everyday lives. We start off by discussing the rapidly approaching College World Series and how the warming weather impacts our local landscape, setting the stage for an engaging conversation about the tech we utilize in our homes to navigate daily challenges.



The conversation shifts to recent upgrades in internet service options, with Mike sharing his experience as he transitions from Cox Communications to MetroNet for fiber internet. He highlights the competitive landscape in Omaha, where residents now have multiple high-speed internet choices, and how his decision to opt for a two-gigabit plan reflects the growing trend towards faster, more reliable service. We explore the importance of upload speeds in everyday use and how this can affect home network setups.



As the discussion deepens, we transition into the realm of home lab setups, with Mike detailing his recent upgrades designed to optimize network performance. He outlines his journey to implement 2.5-gigabit networking gear to maximize efficiency while discussing the intricacies of setting up a network that can adequately handle the demands of modern technology, especially with the upcoming fiber internet installation. His recommendations on equipment and strategies provide insights for tech enthusiasts looking to enhance their home networks.



We also broach the subject of DIY repairs and sustainability in technology, with Mike sharing thoughts on the fix-it movement. He compares modern gadgets’ repairability to older models, highlighting the importance of accessibility to repairs in today’s fast-paced technology market. This leads to a broader conversation on the implications of our choices, from purchasing new devices to investing time in repairs.



Towards the end of the episode, Mike lifts the curtain on his experience with health technology, discussing his use of the Whoop band. He elaborates on its features, particularly the “Whoop age” metric, which compares physical performance against biological age and emphasizes the role of sleep in overall health. Listeners will find Mike’s enthusiasm for this technology infectious, coupled with practical tips on how he leverages data to inform lifestyle choices.



This episode is rich with professional insights, personal anecdotes, and practical advice, offering listeners a comprehensive overview of the latest in home tech innovations, personal health tracking, and a thoughtful approach to modern living. Join us for an informative discussion that will equip you with knowledge and inspiration to improve your own home technology experience.



Full show notes, transcriptions (available on request), audio and video at http://theAverageGuy.tv/hgg650



Join Jim Collison / @jcollison for show #650 of Home Gadget Geeks, brought to you by the Average Guy Network.



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