Author: Ian S. Hoover
Windows vs. Mac: How Windows Caught Up and Redefined the PC Experience
The debate between Windows and Mac has raged for decades, with passionate advocates on both sides. As someone who has never been an Apple user—my disdain for the brand rooted in early experiences as a teenage computer repair entrepreneur and later as a T-Mobile employee selling against the iPhone—I’ve always leaned heavily toward Windows. My…
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5 Ideas to Revive Retail
As a real estate broker with over 1,000 transactions in the Pittsburgh area and a former T-Mobile USA retail manager, I’ve seen the highs and lows of retail firsthand. My corporate retail career taught me invaluable lessons, forged lifelong friendships, and showed me that work can—and should—be enjoyable. Recently, a multi-day power outage at my…
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My First Major Power Outage as an EV Owner
Introduction Owning two electric vehicles (EVs)—a Ford F-150 Lightning and a Tesla Model 3—has been a game-changer for my family. The quiet rides, lower fuel costs, and eco-friendly footprint make EVs a no-brainer. But when a massive storm knocked out power across our area, I faced the ultimate test of EV ownership: a multi-day blackout…
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From Side Hustle to Success: 5 Compelling Reasons to Legitimize Your Gig
Turning your side hustle into a legitimate business can be a game-changer for your financial future and professional growth. Whether you’re driving for a rideshare app, selling handmade crafts, or freelancing as a graphic designer, formalizing your gig offers significant advantages. Below, we explore five compelling reasons to transform your side hustle into a fully-fledged…
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My Everyday Carry (EDC) Setup: Streamlined, Practical, and Ready for Anything
My everyday carry (EDC) setup is the result of years of refining what I need to stay productive, connected, and prepared without overloading my pockets. From my trusty Samsung Galaxy S24 to a well-organized Thule backpack, every item serves a purpose. Below, I’ll walk you through my EDC, why I chose each piece, and how…
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The Hidden Crypto Gem with High Potential That’s Flying Under the Radar—and You Can Mine It with Old Devices
In the bustling world of cryptocurrencies, where new tokens and blockchains seem to pop up daily, one project has been quietly making waves without the usual fanfare: Verus ($VRSC). With a market cap of around $210 million as of April 2025, Verus is a proof-of-work (PoW) and proof-of-stake (PoS) hybrid token that’s gaining traction for…
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Is Grass Always Greener? Weighing the Pros and Cons of Being an Entrepreneur
As I sit at the hotel bar in New York City, laptop open, catching up on work after a day of exploring with my family during an extended spring break trip, I find myself reflecting on my journey from the corporate world to owning my own business. Back when I was an employee, I dreamed…
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The Decline American Malls – A Huge Opportunity
The American shopping mall, once a vibrant symbol of suburban life and consumer culture, is facing an uncertain future. Many predict that malls are on the brink of extinction, and while I partially agree, the reality is more nuanced. The era of every major city boasting 5–10 thriving malls is likely over, as evidenced by…
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Unlock Free Travel: Your Ultimate Guide to Travel Hacking
Travel hacking is the art of using credit card rewards, loyalty programs, and strategic planning to score free or deeply discounted flights, hotels, and experiences. It’s not about gaming the system—it’s about maximizing value from programs designed to reward you. I’ve personally flown to Las Vegas three times for free using Bank of America miles…
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7 Common Crypto Scams and How to Avoid Them
Cryptocurrency offers exciting opportunities but also attracts scammers exploiting its decentralized and pseudonymous nature. As scams evolve, awareness and vigilance are crucial for protecting your assets. Below, we explore the most common crypto scams, including the email airdrop scam you mentioned, and provide practical steps to avoid them, backed by recent insights and resources. 1.…
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