Everyday Green Home

Wicked Problems - Transportation and How It Affects Us with Tony Pratte

Wicked problems are significant issues with no single, straightforward answer, and they are everywhere! Transportation is a wicked problem that touches every aspect of our lives, whether we realize it or not. It affects what we have on our dinner tables, the clothes we wear, and everything we have inside our homes. It even affects where we work, how we get there, and how we spend our vacations. Yet, we tend to take it for granted. I'm Marla, the Green Home Coach, coming to you live from Shock City Studios in St. Louis, Missouri. I am delighted to have my occasional co-host, Tony Pratte, join me today to discuss the wicked problems surrounding transportation.  The transportation system is undeniably complex and multifaceted. I invite you to listen in as we journey through the evolving world of our transportation system and explore the wicked problems it presents.  Impact of COVID-19  The absence of commuters and students traveling to school during the pandemic highlighted a significant shift in how we perceive transportation. I found it eye-opening to see the streets resembling quiet Sunday mornings when it used to be rush hour. Electric Cars and Infrastructure A noticeable change after the pandemic has been the proliferation of electric cars, even in states like Oklahoma, traditionally associated with fossil fuels. The increasing presence of electric vehicles is encouraging. But we must recognize that the infrastructure to support them is evolving, and supply chains for materials like copper and lithium must grow exponentially to meet the 2035 EV goals.  Mining Mining, especially overseas, raises concerns about environmental and ethical practices. Those considerations are essential as we make the shift to electric transportation. Transparency in the Supply Chain Many pieces get hidden from the average consumer within the supply chain for energy and transportation. With both gasoline for cars and the materials used in the batteries of electric vehicles, transparency remains a challenge. We need better labeling and reporting to know where our products come from, because that awareness allows us to make informed choices, not only for environmental reasons but also to support ethical and responsible sourcing. Public Transportation The lack of robust public transportation networks, especially in the Midwest and Southeastern United States, forces many to rely on personal vehicles. However, expanding and improving public transportation could significantly reduce congestion, pollution, and the need for massive parking lots in urban areas. Achieving a well-balanced transportation system that combines individual and public options remains a challenge yet to be overcome. Walkable Cities The issues with transportation issue also extend to city planning and the use of land. Deciding whether we want to continue sacrificing valuable space for parking lots or promote walkable cities that will reduce our reliance on cars is a balancing act, and the choices we make today will have consequences for future generations. This complexity highlights the need for thoughtful, integrated solutions, considering the environment, society, and economics. Maintaining Existing Infrastructure We often rush into building new infrastructure before adequately maintaining existing systems. We must prioritize maintenance and repair to ensure the longevity of our transportation networks and reduce costs and environmental impact in the long run. In essence, addressing the wicked problem of transportation requires a multifaceted approach, incorporating sustainability, ethical considerations, and urban planning for a better future. Maintenance in Transportation Maintenance for transportation still tends to get overlooked in the planning process, leaving far-reaching implications. It is easier to secure funds for capital budgets than to get funding for ongoing operational expenses. Capital expenditures have the allure of job creation and development, making them more appealing to budget approvers. Unfortunately, maintenance often falls by the wayside despite its critical role in preserving and extending the life of our transportation systems. Unforeseen Consequences The bias towards capital expenditure, driven by political and economic factors, is concerning. When creating impressive new structures gets prioritized, it is easy to lose sight of the need to maintain existing systems. The consequences of this negligence are evident on the roads. A simple blowout caused by the poor condition of a road can lead to severe consequences, from inconvenience to accidents and increased healthcare costs. That is a stark reminder of the vital role of maintenance in ensuring our safety and well-being. Extreme Weather and Infrastructure Challenges Many regions, like St. Louis and Oklahoma City, face extreme weather conditions that wreak havoc on their transportation infrastructure. Asphalts expand and contract under temperature extremes, creating fissures and potholes. These constant shifts necessitate research into more resilient road materials that can withstand the stresses.  Shifting Transportation Modes  Considering the most efficient modes for moving goods is crucial. Shifting from road transportation to rail can reduce the number of trucks on the road and the associated pollution. Trains are known for their economical and environmentally friendly tonnage transportation, as they can carry a considerable load with minimal fuel consumption. Exploring the potential for rail transportation can significantly impact the overall efficiency of our transportation systems. Collaborative Planning Transportation decisions should prioritize the greater good, not the preferences of the few. Fostering collaboration among multiple stakeholders, including federal and local governments, businesses, and the general public, remains a challenge. Those stakeholders often vie for their share of the transportation budget, further complicating the decision-making process. Budget allocation is influenced by political interests, so the focus must shift from individual gains to what is best for the collective community. We need a comprehensive master plan that does not cater to personal preferences or political influence.  The Complexity of Transportation Transportation is a wicked problem that is more intricate than housing and buildings. The many parties involved, from government agencies to private industries, and the relentless battle for funding require a multifaceted approach.  Collaboration The wicked problem of transportation demands our unwavering attention and collaboration to ensure a safer, more efficient future for all. Have a great green day! Links and resources Green Home Coach Workshop - How to Sell the Value of Green Homes and Features  [https://greenhomecoach.com/how-to-sell-the-value-of-green-homes-and-features/] How do All Electric Cars Work [https://afdc.energy.gov/vehicles/how-do-all-electric-cars-work] Building the electric-vehicle charging infrastructure America needs [https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/public-sector/our-insights/building-the-electric-vehicle-charging-infrastructure-america-needs] The EV Battery Supply Chain Explained - RMI [https://rmi.org/the-ev-battery-supply-chain-explained/] Transportation Trends 2022-2023  [https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/industry/public-sector/transportation-trends.html] Bureau of Transportation Statistics [https://www.bts.gov/product/transportation-economic-trends]

How to Pay for Better Homes with Kerry Langley and HomeBuck$

It is hard to talk about how our homes impact our health, well-being, and climate when so many people still struggle to afford the cost of buying their own homes. Today, I bring you a solution cultivated by Kerry Langley, an industry colleague I have known for quite some time.  I’m Marla, the Green Home Coach, and I invite you to lean in and pay attention as you discover how his financial modeling tools and software can help you unlock the doors to a brighter financial future and lead you to the home you deserve! I am so excited to have Kerry share his insights today! They will allow you to approach your housing journey with a fresh perspective and attain outcomes you may never have thought possible. Getting to know Kerry  Kerry Langley is a financial math enthusiast. With a career spanning 38 years in mortgage banking, he used to cater to millionaires with complex financial dealings. However, the 2008 recession took him from thriving to struggling and led him to re-evaluate his approach. After talking to a friend who worked at Merrill Lynch, he felt inspired to explore opportunities that could benefit a broader audience. So he transitioned to high-performance homes and green buildings, even though he had limited knowledge about green and energy-efficient concepts.  Making Green Living Financially Accessible Kerry began a mission to make sustainable, green living financially accessible. He partnered with various organizations to create EarthCraft House, a certification program promoting green homes. That endeavor led to the development of his green mortgage software, Home Bucks, to help consumers identify ways to improve their homes, enhance energy efficiency, and reduce the total cost of ownership. Creating Home Bucks Even though he lacked experience in software development, Kerry still embarked on developing a software tool. The result was a groundbreaking tool called TCO (Total Cost of Ownership), which he later trademarked under the name Home Bucks. This innovative tool aims to empower consumers to live in homes that may seem out of their budget range by optimizing financial aspects.  Making Green Choices affordable  Through Home Bucks, Kerry demonstrated how buyers could incorporate items like solar panels into their mortgage, lower their interest rates, and ultimately reduce their total cost of ownership without straining their initial budget. His practical approach dismantled the misconception that sustainable living was financially out of reach and reinforced the idea that green choices could, in fact, be affordable. The EarthCraft House Certification Program  After being approached by the Atlanta Home Builders Association and the Southface Institute, Kerry partnered with them to develop a green mortgage and got involved with the EarthCraft House certification program.  Enhancing Energy Efficiency Kerry's approach to green homes includes the integration of solar panels, improvements in insulation, installation of energy-efficient appliances, and upgrades to windows. He aims to demonstrate that achieving sustainability and energy efficiency does not necessarily come with a higher price tag.  Addressing Misconceptions About Green Homes One of the challenges Kerry encounters is the prevailing misconception that green homes are expensive and unattainable. Through his meticulous financial modeling and calculations, he debunks that myth.  Creating Long-Term Wealth Kerry helps his clients make informed decisions about their homes, which is their most significant investment. He firmly believes that with careful consideration and a comprehensive understanding of the financial aspects, individuals can build long-term, multi-generational wealth through homeownership. His approach also involves smart financial planning. The Importance of Thoughtful Home Buying Kerry emphasizes the importance of thoughtful consideration when buying a home. He points out that people often spend significant time and effort choosing appliances or home decor, yet they fail to pay the same attention when buying a home. Indoor Air Quality Matters Indoor air quality frequently gets overlooked unless health issues arise. However, as families grow and parents become more concerned about the health of their loved ones, questions about indoor air quality, chemicals, and other factors come to the forefront. Empowering Families Young families, in particular, are challenged in the current housing market due to rising home costs. Kerry believes that by optimizing their budget and considering energy-efficient options, families can make more informed decisions and create a better living space for their loved ones. Maximizing Resources Starting a family tends to trigger a shift in priorities, so parents are more inclined to question the safety of chemicals in the home, off-gassing from cabinets, and other potential hazards. Aware of the lack of resources and guidance for addressing those concerns, Kerry understood how young families navigating the housing crisis could benefit from learning how to maximize their resources. A Wise Investment It is wise to invest in an asset that appreciates over time rather than investing in items that can depreciate. A home is generally the most substantial investment people ever make. Therefore, making thoughtful decisions that provide a comfortable living space and contribute to long-term financial stability is crucial. Exploring the Home Bucks Model The Home Bucks model takes several factors into account, including the price of a home, the commission structure, the current home performance, and potential improvements in energy efficiency and sustainability. It aims to calculate the total cost of ownership while considering all of those elements. Driving Down Interest Rates A key aspect of the Home Bucks model is its ability to lower interest rates, which significantly impacts the overall cost of homeownership. By optimizing various financial factors, Home Bucks can often reduce interest rates by one to one-and-a-half percent, resulting in substantial long-term savings for homeowners. Flexible Financing Options Home Bucks evaluates all possible financing options, not limiting itself to traditional mortgages. It considers point-of-sale financing for home improvements and various strategies. By analyzing their financial picture, Home Bucks helps its clients make the most cost-effective choices for their circumstances. Paying Off the Mortgage Faster A unique feature of the Home Bucks model is how it helps clients pay off their mortgages faster without additional payments. So, some homeowners can save money by shaving off significant years from their mortgage term. A Unique Model The Home Bucks model is unique in that it has the ability to transform people's financial outlooks while also enhancing the feasibility of green and energy-efficient homeownership. Have a great green day! Links and resources: Green Home Coach Workshop [https://greenhomecoach.com/how-to-sell-the-value-of-green-homes-and-features/] - How to Sell the Value of Green Homes and Features  Do You Know Your Total Home Ownership Cost  [https://greenhomecoach.com/do-you-know-your-total-home-ownership-cost/] 3 Ways Real Estate Pros Can Be Change Agents  [https://greenhomecoach.com/3-ways-real-estate-pros-can-be-change-agents/] TCO Flex [http://www.greenhomesmatter.com/5-min-tco-flex.html] (Total Cost of Ownership)  Connect with Kerry and Homebuck$ HomeBuck$ [http://www.greenhomesmatter.com/homebuck.html]

ESG - Building Real Value or Political Lightning Rod with Tony Pratte

In a world of evolving priorities and rapidly changing investment landscapes, three letters have ignited discussions that resonate far beyond the financial realm: ESG. Environmental, Social, and Governance is a trifecta of influence shaping how businesses get scrutinized, evaluated, and ultimately endorsed.  ESG has grown into a juggernaut of consideration, designed ostensibly to gauge a company's commitment to the planet, its people, and its principles. However, as the spotlight has intensified, so have the debates surrounding its genuine impact.  I'm Marla, the Green Home Coach, here to guide you in navigating the labyrinth of ESG with fresh insight and an open mind! I am delighted to have Tony Pratte of the Sound Room, join me to share his viewpoint as we discuss ESG and unravel its meaning. The Meaning and Impact of ESG  ESG is not just a buzzword but a framework that evaluates how a company performs in areas beyond financial metrics. ESG is a lens through which companies get scrutinized for their environmental practices, social responsibility, and corporate governance. It is significant for investors seeking to align their portfolios with ethical and sustainable values. However, much complexity and subjectivity are still involved in measuring those factors accurately. Navigating the Challenges  The challenges inherent in implementing ESG criteria include the potential pitfall of greenwashing, where companies manipulate or exaggerate their ESG efforts to appear more environmentally and socially conscious than they are. The lack of standardized reporting and varying interpretations of ESG metrics can make it difficult for investors to make informed decisions. Furthermore, the skepticism that ESG can evoke makes one wonder whether some corporations genuinely embrace these principles or are merely jumping on the bandwagon. Balancing Profit and Purpose  Balancing profit with purpose is a central theme when addressing the tension between financial success and ESG commitments because companies can indeed be both financially successful and socially responsible, and companies with strong ESG practices often have a competitive edge, attracting consumers, investors, and even talented employees who align with their values.  A Paradigm Shift in Business ESG considerations drive companies to adopt sustainable practices, create social impact, and enhance governance structures. There are many real-world examples of companies embracing ESG principles and reaping benefits like reputation, customer loyalty, and innovation. ESG has catalyzed a shift towards purpose-driven business models, redefining success beyond monetary gains. ESG on a Personal Level Individuals can contribute to the ESG movement in their personal lives with conscious consumption, ethical investment choices, and supporting companies aligned with their values. Education and awareness are essential to inform consumers because informed consumers can drive demand for responsible products and services. We need to understand that ESG is not solely a corporate endeavor. It is a collective effort that begins with small, intentional actions. A Call to Embrace the Potential of ESG The potential of ESG is crucial for positive change. Despite its complexities and controversies, ESG allows for a more sustainable and equitable future. So it is essential to engage with ESG discussions, ask critical questions, and support companies genuinely committed to making a difference.  Diverse Board Composition and Qualifications When examining the composition of a company board concerning ESG, some instances prompt the consideration of whether the lack of banking expertise could impact board decisions. That raises questions about the percentage of board members with banking experience and the potential implications for decision-making. Risk Management and Consequences Tony points out a scenario where poor risk management led to the approval of loans that could not get repaid, exposing an oversight in the ESG efforts of the company. That highlights the importance of evaluating the actual practices and consequences linked to ESG strategies because potential unintended outcomes can arise, even with well-intentioned ESG initiatives. Direct and Indirect Links in ESG Impact Various indirect links and unintended consequences could emerge when exploring the nuanced connections between ESG and outcomes. Those unintended consequences can arise when companies prioritize meeting ESG criteria over qualifications or expertise. That underscores the complexity of measuring the impact of ESG and how different motivations behind ESG integration can lead to contrasting outcomes. ESG and Energy Policy Considerations ESG discussions often intersect with debates about fossil fuels and renewable energy. That is why we need comprehensive energy policies to consider environmental and economic factors. ESG and Green Building Integration Certified green buildings align with ESG goals and contribute to sustainability and societal well-being. Green buildings lower risk, offer quality assurance and positively impact energy consumption and occupant comfort.  Balancing Perspectives and Encouraging Dialogue Individuals need to have a balanced perspective and open dialogues in the ESG discourse. Tony and I are willing to engage in productive conversations despite our differing viewpoints, and we encourage listeners to seek understanding, ask questions, and communicate the benefits of ESG efforts to foster positive change.  Have a great green day! Links and resources:  What AI and IoT can do for smart homes  [https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/httpswwwonpassivecomreg5f3lanprn4obqpvqidkkzw3d3d-peter-ramula/?trk=articles_directory] Why Are AI-Enabled Smart Home Products the Next Big Thing?  [https://xailient.com/blog/why-are-ai-enabled-smart-home-products-the-next-big-thing/] The Sound Room [https://www.thesoundroom.com/] (where Tony works)  Smart Home, Connected Home [https://greenhomecoach.com/smart-home-connected-home-with-tony-pratte/] with Tony Pratte  Gift of a No-Touch Home [https://greenhomecoach.com/gift-of-a-no-touch-home-with-tony-pratte/] with Tony Pratte  No Touch Home Control [https://greenhomecoach.com/o-touch-home-control-with-tony-pratte/] with Tony Pratte  The Future of Green Design and Home Technology  [https://greenhomecoach.com/the-future-of-green-design-and-home-technology/]

Becoming a B Corp and OK Sustainability Summit with Traci of Plenty Mercantile

In a world increasingly driven by the pursuit of sustainability and community well-being, the rise of B Corps is emerging as a beacon of hope for a more conscious and responsible business approach. I was recently captivated by a charming shop called Plenty Mercantile, nestled in the heart of Automobile Alley in Oklahoma City. It is a delightful store that embodies the principles of sustainability and ethical entrepreneurship, and I was thrilled to meet Traci Walton, one of the owners! I’m Marla, the Green Home Coach! Today, I invite you to join me in exploring the incredible achievements of Plenty Mercantile and learn how they charted their course toward becoming a B Corp.  So, fasten your seatbelts for a heart-warming and inspiring tale of entrepreneurship, sustainability, and the pursuit of a better world! The Origin of Plenty Mercantile Plenty Mercantile came into being due to Traci and her daughter Brittany's passion for sustainability and desire to bring sustainable practices to mainstream retail. Traci was raised by her Native American grandmother, who instilled the values of respecting the environment, which further influenced their vision for the shop. The idea to create a store resembling their home and promoting sustainability took root, and they embarked on their journey of starting Plenty Mercantile in 2012. Becoming a Leader in Sustainability in Oklahoma City Plenty Mercantile has played a pioneering role in promoting sustainability in Oklahoma City. They aim to create a safe and welcoming space for customers to shop while making informed choices to support sustainable practices. Becoming a B Corp A B Corp certification is a voluntary designation for businesses and organizations committed to positively impacting people, the planet, and profitability. Traci explains that they aspired to become a B Corp from the start, aligning their business practices with sustainability on every level. However, achieving the B Corp certification was challenging. After years of following the B Corp structure and seeking improvement, they finally enlisted the help of a consultant, which proved to be a game-changer in guiding them toward their B Corp certification. The Importance of B Corp Certification The significance of a B Corp certification goes way beyond just marketing a company as sustainable. It involves a deep dive into financials, governance, impact, and various aspects of business operations, providing third-party verification of their sustainable practices.  The Power of Making Sustainable Choices Sustainability does not necessarily mean higher costs. It means there are cost-effective and sustainable alternatives available in the market. Making sustainability choices sends powerful messages through purchasing power and contributes to long-term positive change. People-Centric Sustainability Sustainability is people-centric because it focuses on how sustainable choices positively impact individuals, their health, and future generations. Considering the health implications of products and practices is crucial for everyone- especially those who are cancer survivors! Building a Sustainable and Equitable Business Sustainability is integral to the business values of Plenty Mercantile, and it gets reflected in every aspect of their operations. Traci points out that sustainability extends beyond the products they carry in the store. It also encompasses how they treat their employees, community engagement, and overall business practices.  Encouraging Others to Pursue Sustainability Traci aims to inspire others to pursue sustainability and B Corp certification. Sustainability is a journey that requires continuous effort and improvement, and she hopes to see more businesses in Oklahoma and beyond adopting sustainable practices and becoming B Corps because it will positively impact communities, the environment, and future generations. Celebrating Sustainable Products Traci and I love sustainable products! We also enjoy educating consumers about the benefits and values of using sustainable products and explaining why they should choose products that align with their values and contribute to a sustainable future.  The Role of Plenty Mercantile in Promoting Sustainability Plenty Mercantile is a leader in promoting sustainability in the retail industry and creating a positive impact on the planet and the lives of individuals. Its commitment to sustainability has shaped its unique identity as a sustainable lifestyle store, offering products that meet the needs of consumers and align with their values. Navigating the Challenges of COVID-19  Despite the challenges of COVID-19, Plenty Mercantile managed to stay afloat. They used the opportunity to expand their online presence and went from offering 400 products on their website to an impressive 4900, making their online platform robust and thriving! The expansion allowed them to delve even deeper into understanding the ethos behind each product and the companies they work with, reigniting their passion for sustainability. Showcasing Sustainable Home Goods and Eco-Friendly Products  Plenty Mercantile proudly offers an array of sustainable and eco-friendly home goods and products. From direct imports from Nepal to toys and baby products that prioritize health and sustainability, the store has been dedicated to curating products that align with its vision of responsible and ethical consumption.  The Positive Impact of Making Sustainable Choices Sustainable choices need not be expensive, and consumers can positively impact the environment by choosing products that align with their values. The Sustainability Summit  Sustainability efforts get amplified through collaboration and partnerships. To foster a sense of community and bring like-minded individuals and companies together, Traci and I are co-hosting the Oklahoma Sustainability Summit. The event will serve as a platform for businesses, organizations, municipalities, and individuals interested in sustainability to connect, share ideas, and collectively drive positive change. We hope the summit will inspire people to demand more sustainable choices and support local businesses prioritizing sustainability! Expanding Sustainability Efforts and Future Endeavors  Plenty Mercantile continues to expand its sustainability efforts by actively seeking ways to incorporate environmentally friendly practices into its operations. They are excited about their upcoming store at the airport, where they can introduce travelers to sustainable choices and showcase local businesses that align with their values. They are also actively exploring electric vehicles and renewable energy as part of their commitment to a greener future. Creating Healthier and Happier Communities Traci and I believe that sustainable choices are not only beneficial for the environment but also contribute to healthier, happier communities. Through collaboration, education, and the Oklahoma Sustainability Summit, we hope to inspire others to make informed choices that promote positive change and create a more sustainable world for future generations! Have a great green day! Links Green Home Coach Workshop [https://greenhomecoach.com/how-to-sell-the-value-of-green-homes-and-features/] - How to Sell the Value of Green Homes and Features  Plenty Mercantile  [https://www.plentymercantile.com/] Plenty Mercantile on Becoming a B Corporation [https://www.plentymercantile.com/service/b-corporations/]  Plenty Mercantile B Corporation Certification [https://www.bcorporation.net/en-us/find-a-b-corp/company/plenty-mercantile/] B Corporation - Make Business a Force for Good  [https://www.bcorporation.net/en-us/] Ok Sustainability Summit [https://www.plentymercantile.com/venue-events/events-workshops/]

Your Home is Watching You - Smart Homes and AI with Tony Pratte

Artificial intelligence has become the buzzword of the century, permeating news headlines, chat platforms, and even our everyday browsing experiences. Its presence in our lives is undeniable, revolutionizing the world of computing and enhancing human existence in ways we could have only dreamed of!  Amidst this AI revolution, another concept has been capturing our collective imagination for years- Smart Homes.  I’m Marla, the Green Home Coach! Today, I am excited to delve into the realm of smart and connected homes with a true expert in the field! I have Tony Pratt from the Sound Room joining me in the studio to explain how to tie smart home technology together with AI. Tony’s insights will undoubtedly leave you captivated as we embark on an enlightening journey into the world of artificial intelligence and smart homes! Artificial intelligence and connected homes There are two parts to getting to grips with artificial intelligence and connected homes. The first is getting to understand all the different smart home devices. The second is learning how to tie them all together. (Companies like the Sound Room have the experience to know which features you can use to integrate and interact with your devices.) Still a work in progress Currently, the integration of artificial intelligence into smart home devices is still a work in progress. While AI has not fully permeated the realm of smart homes yet, it is undoubtedly the direction in which the technology is heading. Soon, AI algorithms will be capable of learning your preferences, such as the desired temperature for your thermostat, by analyzing data from various sources. This includes comparing it with external factors like outdoor temperature, humidity, and wind conditions. Through this correlation of information, AI will enable smart homes to provide a more personalized and optimized living experience. Privacy and Data Collection There are concerns surrounding data collection and privacy in smart home systems. Tony explains that while some systems collect data, it is kept within the house and not accessible externally. He points out the trade-off between inexpensive devices like Google and Alexa, which mine user data to offer cheaper products, versus systems that prioritize privacy and charge higher prices. Artificial Intelligence and Home Automation AI is transforming home automation by enabling more advanced data processing and analysis. AI allows systems to understand users' habits and preferences, leading to more personalized and efficient control of devices. Tony highlights the importance of planning and having multiple trigger points in an AI-powered smart home.  Challenges in Implementing Smart Home Systems There are several challenges in implementing smart home systems, particularly the shortage of computer chips and reduced quality control due to external factors like COVID-19. That has resulted in higher device failure rates, which can impact the user experience. Home Automation Start Points and Wifi Networks Tony suggests two starting points for home automation: environmental control (lights, locks, thermostats) and entertainment (audio-video systems). He explains that while entertainment systems are more appealing, environmental control is easier to implement initially. He stresses the significance of having a robust wifi network in smart homes, as that forms the backbone for connecting various devices and ensures smooth functioning, especially as AI becomes more integral to home automation. Lock and Leave By connecting additional devices to their smart home network, homeowners can ensure that all their devices interact seamlessly and respond to voice commands through platforms like Alexa or Google. That integration allows for convenient control over different aspects of the home, such as triggering routines like "good morning" or "good night," as well as indicating when the homeowner is leaving or arriving.  Future Trends in Smart Home Technology Future trends in smart home technology include low-voltage backlighting, integrated LED cans, and the need for compatibility between different smart devices.  The Internet of Things With the Internet of Things (IoT) and the connected city, everything relies on sensors. However, there is a significant challenge in the form of a shortage of computer chips, which are essential for these interconnected systems. The supply of computer chips has become extremely limited, and even the available ones suffer from a lack of quality control, particularly since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Remote diagnostics Remote diagnostics for HVAC systems will enable technicians to diagnose and even fix issues remotely. That will reduce the need for physical visits, speed up repairs, and enhance the overall user experience. Exciting opportunities and challenges The ongoing technological advancements bring exciting opportunities while also posing challenges that must be addressed for a seamless and secure smart home experience. The Power of Monitoring Internet Performance  New systems allow users to log in and monitor their internet performance. That real-time insight into a service provider or equipment issues is a game-changer for both consumers and service providers. While cable companies have offered similar monitoring capabilities for some time, recent advancements offer greater convenience and efficiency. Technology as a Solution to Labor Shortages With the labor shortages in the trade industry, there is a need for both skilled workers and advanced technology to meet the growing demands of the modern world. Tony points out that technology can be a powerful tool to augment that workforce.  Remote Troubleshooting with AI and Smart Home Technology  Tony had an experience where he used remote access and AI to troubleshoot a client's wifi system. He points out that technology can save us a lot of time and resources by diagnosing issues remotely and allowing technicians to be more efficient and effective. AI and Smart Home Technology Optimization Tony explains that to achieve true optimization, all devices must be interconnected and capable of learning from user habits. While that vision is still a work in progress, it promises greater automation and convenience in our daily lives. Smart Appliances Require a Robust WiFi Network A robust wifi network is crucial for the functionality of smart homes, especially as they advance to the AI level. In the future, smart homes will not only consist of individual devices like door locks, garage door openers, and light switches but will also include essential appliances like refrigerators and other power-dependent equipment. As the scope of smart home technology expands, the reliance on a strong and stable wifi network becomes even more critical to ensure seamless connectivity and communication between various smart devices and appliances. The Role of AI in Automation and Beyond  The role of AI is increasing in various fields, such as writing emails and creating content. We can anticipate continued growth and the integration of AI into our daily lives. The Future of AI and Smart Home Integration  When considering the future of AI and smart home integration, Tony suggests seeking advice from system integrators or automation specialists to navigate this evolving landscape. The Exciting Potential of AI and Smart Home Technology  Tony and I are excited about the potential of AI and smart home technology to improve our lives. We plan to explore this topic further in upcoming episodes and encourage listeners to stay updated on the latest developments in this exciting field! Have a great green day! Links and resources: Green Home Coach Workshop [https://greenhomecoach.com/how-to-sell-the-value-of-green-homes-and-features/] - How to Sell the Value of Green Homes and Features  What AI And IoT Can Do For Smart Homes [https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/httpswwwonpassivecomreg5f3lanprn4obqpvqidkkzw3d3d-peter-ramula/?trk=articles_directory] Why Are AI-Enabled Smart Home Products the Next Big Thing? [https://xailient.com/blog/why-are-ai-enabled-smart-home-products-the-next-big-thing/] The Sound Room [https://www.thesoundroom.com/] - where Tony works Smart Home, Connected Home with Tony Pratte  [https://greenhomecoach.com/smart-home-connected-home-with-tony-pratte/] Gift of a No-Touch Home with Tony Pratte [https://greenhomecoach.com/gift-of-a-no-touch-home-with-tony-pratte/] No Touch Home Control with Tony Pratte [https://greenhomecoach.com/o-touch-home-control-with-tony-pratte/]  The Future of Green Design and Home Technology [https://greenhomecoach.com/the-future-of-green-design-and-home-technology/]