In this episode, Sarah Dresher shares her journey in the home technology industry, discussing the evolution of Luxury Integrated Technologies and the importance of bridging the gap between designers and integrators. She highlights emerging trends in smart home technology, the significance of building resilient homes, and the role of hidden technology in enhancing design. Sarah also emphasises the importance of selecting innovative brands and empowering women in the tech space, while introducing LIT-a-Palooza, an event aimed at educating and connecting industry professionals.

Key Takeaways

• Sarah Dresher's journey from electrical engineering to founding Luxury Integrated Technologies.

• The importance of integrating technology seamlessly into home design.

• Luxury technology is becoming more affordable and accessible.

• Education is key in bridging the gap between integrators and designers.

• Emerging trends include smart home foundations and battery systems.

• Hidden technology enhances the aesthetic appeal of homes.

• Selecting innovative brands is crucial for success in the luxury market.

• LIT-a-Palooza aims to educate and connect industry professionals.

• Women in technology can help elevate the industry.

• Integrators should stay updated on the latest trends and technologies.

LIT Website

The Digital Ramble Website

🎙️Episode 177 - Building Smart Communities with Benjamin Davies

In Episode 177, The Digital Ramble welcomes UK smart home powerhouse Benjamin Davies, founder of Inspire AV and Facebook Group Smart Homee.

Benjamin joins Kris Gamble and JJ Canon to talk about what it really takes to build smarter homes and stronger communities. From early “wild-west” installs to founding one of the UK’s most positive online spaces for smart home pros, Benjamin shares how collaboration, curiosity, and a little Yorkshire grit are reshaping the AV industry.

The crew dives into:

💡 How Smart Homee became a 5,600+-member Facebook group for pros and enthusiasts

⚖️ The balance between business owner and content manager

🤖 How AI might handle 90 % of installs — and what that means for tech pros

🚴🏼‍♂️ Lessons from Benjamin’s 500km charity ride and run from York to Brighton

🏆 A fun round of “Setting the S.C.E.N.E. Who's on Your Team?”

Whether you’re an installer, designer, or just obsessed with connected living, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical wisdom, and good laughs.

In this episode of Digital Ramble, hosts JJ Canon and Kris Gamble explore the exciting world of home technology and entertainment. They discuss the importance of setting the scene with smart devices, the potential of lesser-known apps beyond mainstream platforms, and how families can engage in fun activities together. The conversation also touches on health and wellness apps, fitness routines, outdoor adventures, and the significance of community engagement in the smart home space.

In this episode of The Digital Ramble, Kris and JJ explore renter-friendly smart home systems using the S.C.E.N.E framework—Security, Communication, Entertainment, Networking, and Energy.

Discover how to transform your rental into a smart home without drilling a single hole, using wireless, battery-powered solutions like Philips Hue, Ring, Sonos, and Eero.

Episode Highlights:

• Security: Explore Ring’s battery-powered cameras, with solar charging and Alexa integration for seamless renter-friendly setups.
• Communication: Learn how to pair Sonos Voice Control with Philips Hue for voice-activated lighting scenes, a first for third-party device integration.
• Environment: Combine Hue lighting with Amazon’s Smart Air Quality Monitor to create energy-saving routines that keep your space comfortable.
• Networking: Set up Eero Pro 7 mesh WiFi for reliable, renter-portable connectivity that supports over 100 devices with a 10-minute setup.
• Entertainment: Elevate your TV audio with a Sonos Sub and Era 100 speakers, featuring Trueplay tuning and Spotify/AirPlay streaming, perfect for multi-room sound.

Shout-outs: Thanks to Derek Harrell of Harrell Home Systems and the Voice Control Collective Facebook group for inspiring smart home innovation.

Call to Action: Follow @Digital_Ramble on X and email [email protected] to share your smart home tips.

Sponsor: Customised & Digital Delight

Join Kris and JJ on this episode of The Digital Ramble as they dive into the S.C.E.N.E. framework - a comprehensive guide to smart home design covering Security, Communication, Environment, Network, and Entertainment. Inspired by installations from Customised and Digital Delight, the hosts break down each pillar with real-world examples from their own setups, including UniFi Protect for security, Ring and Lutron integrations, biophilic design elements, reliable WiFi networks, and immersive entertainment systems.

Highlights include:

• A quick overview of the S.C.E.N.E. pillars and how they interconnect in modern homes.
• Personal insights: What Kris and JJ use for each category, plus tips on costs and recent installations.
• Canon Fire: Fun rhymes like "A scene setta is a never-forgetta" and a demo on connecting Ring cameras to your Samsung TV.
• Gamble Ramble: Advice on ditching outdated tech and consulting a home tech pro for seamless upgrades.
• Listener Q&A: Answers to burning questions, such as the differences between PoE, PoE+, and PoE++ and the benefits of a guest WiFi network.

Plus, a community callout for upcoming guests—want to share news or join the show? Reach out! Wrap up with shout-outs to the "Ramble Force" on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram (@digital_ramble), and Telegram.

Send your feedback or questions to [email protected].

If you don't know, ask a home tech pro!

Join hosts Kris Gamble and JJ Canon for Episode 173 of The Digital Ramble: "Fresh On The S.C.E.N.E." In this episode, dive into the S.C.E.N.E. framework - Security, Communication, Environment, Network, and Entertainment - as a blueprint for smart home success. Explore each pillar with real-world examples, from AI-powered cameras and voice-activated scenes to WiFi 7 mesh networks and immersive video walls showcased at CEDIA Expo 2025. Enjoy the return of Gamble Ramble and Canon Fire, listener Q&A on budget set ups and finding pros, plus community shout-outs. Tune in and elevate your home technology. If you don't know, ask a home tech pro!

In this episode, we delve into the transformative world of smart home technology, exploring the five essential pillars that are reshaping our living spaces. Discover how security systems are becoming more intuitive, communication is seamless, and environmental controls are optimizing comfort. We also discuss the importance of robust network infrastructure and the latest in entertainment innovations. Join us as we uncover how these elements come together to create a smarter, more connected home.

• Security
• Communication
• Environment
• Network
• Entertainment

Episode 171: No Pillars, No Progress

In this episode, we reveal the five essential pillars every smart home installation business needs to build on for long-term success. From robust home networking and reliable lighting control, to seamless entertainment tech, rock-solid home tech security, and the often-overlooked world of motorised shades — we break down what matters most. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your smart home offering, this is your blueprint for delivering projects that perform, impress, and last.

This episode is the start of the build up to CEDIA Expo 2025 in Denver, CO where the TDR will be hosting a course on Wednesday Sept 3rd at 1pm titled Smart Install Success - The 5 Brand Blueprint

Episode 169 – The Hidden Episode

Tucked away in the archives and never-before-released, this is The Hidden Episode. Recorded in April 2025, this conversation was nearly lost to cloud storage archives — but now it’s finally getting its moment.

Expect raw takes, unfiltered thoughts, and maybe a few things we wouldn’t say today (in the best way). Whether you’re a longtime Digital Rambler or just tuning in, this one’s a rare cut from deep in the vault.

🎙️ Episode 170 – Robots, Bitcoin, and the Smart Home SupercycleWelcome back, Digital Ramblers! Episode 170, Kris and JJ explore the next phase of the Smart Home Supercycle — and yes, robots have entered the chat.🔍 What’s Inside:We kick things off with a casual intro, where you'll get a quick rundown of why *The Digital Ramble* is your go-to source for smart home know-how. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting curious about connected living, you’re in the right place.Practical Tech Tips: Leaving town? We've got smart holiday prep covered — your home will thank you.Main Topic – Robots: Yup, it's real. We’re talking stories, speculation, and the reality of in-home robotics.Solo Satoshi: Learn about the Solo Satoshi Bitcoin Miner — the easiest way to start mining BTC at home. https://www.solosatoshi.com/aff/190/Listener Q&A: We answer feedback and share stories from the field.💬 Join the Smart Home Talk:📲 Website: https://www.digitalrambleshow.com🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify 📺 Watch us on: YouTube 💬 Connect on: Facebook + Telegram JJ - digitaldelight.comKris - customised.uk.com👉 Thanks for clicking in. If you don’t know... ask a home tech pro.