Software I use, gadgets I love, and other things I recommend.
I get asked a lot about the things I use to build software, stay productive, or buy to fool myself into thinking I’m being productive when I’m really just procrastinating. Here’s a big list of all of my favorite stuff.
Workstation
AMD Ryzen 7 5700G Desktop
A capable custom desktop that handles everything I throw at it — multiple remote sessions, VMs, and a dozen browser tabs of documentation open at once. Reliable, fast, and gets the job done without complaint.
Logitech G435 Headset
Lightweight and wireless, which matters when you're on support calls for hours. Clear audio on both ends and comfortable enough to forget you're wearing it.
Cloud & Development
Visual Studio Code
Lightweight but powerful. Whether I'm editing scripts, writing documentation in Markdown, or poking around a config file, VS Code is always the first thing I open.
GitHub
Where I store scripts, automation tools, and anything worth keeping versioned. Good habits with source control make future-you very grateful.
Windows 11
My primary OS both at home and in the environments I support. Knowing it deeply means fewer surprises when something breaks on a user's machine.
Security & Privacy
1Password
The only way to have strong, unique passwords everywhere without losing your mind. Non-negotiable for anyone who takes security seriously.
Proton
Encrypted email and cloud storage that puts privacy first. I trust it with anything sensitive.
NordVPN
Always on when I'm outside my home network. A simple habit that goes a long way.
Games
Baldur's Gate 3
A deep, story-driven RPG where every choice has consequences. I play co-op with friends online — there's something about collaborating through a chaotic D&D-style adventure together that never gets old.
Warhammer 40k: Dawn of War, Dark Crusade
The second expansion to Dawn of War, Dark Crusade introduces a new non-linear, risk-style planetary campaign set on the world of Kronus. Players choose from multiple factions and compete for territory on a strategic world map layered over traditional real-time battles. Each faction features a unique stronghold mission that must be conquered to eliminate enemies and unlock powerful campaign abilities. With no fixed mission order and full planetary conquest as the win condition, Dark Crusade adds replayability, faction variety, and a deeper layer of strategic planning to the Dawn of War experience.
Fire Emblem Fates: Conquest
A tactical RPG with punishing difficulty — every decision matters. The kind of game that teaches you to think three moves ahead.
Books
The DevOps Handbook by Gene Kim, Jez Humble, Patrick Debois, John Willis
A foundational read for anyone serious about DevOps. It breaks down the principles behind high-performing engineering teams — fast deployments, continuous delivery, and building a culture where development and ops actually work together. Theory backed by real-world case studies.
The Dawn of Yangchen by F.C. Yee
Exploring the life of one of the most enigmatic Avatars, this book delves into the political intrigue and moral complexities of Yangchen's era. It's a fascinating look at a leader who uses her wits and a vast spy network to maintain a fragile peace, proving that diplomacy is often as powerful as bending.
Crucial Conversations by Joseph Grenny, et al.
A game-changer for professional communication. This book provides a practical framework for handling high-stakes discussions where emotions run strong. It has been instrumental in helping me navigate technical disagreements and collaborate more effectively across cross-functional teams.