About

Hi, I’m Michael, a web developer. Currently residing and working in the beautiful Napa Valley (despite the fact I’m not even particularly fond of wine), I have been building websites, web apps, and hosting them, for over a decade now.

My Story

Since I was just a little kid, I was into computers. I took them apart, upgraded them, and sometimes even put them back together. To this day, building computers is one of my favorite hobbies.

By the time I was in high school, I had an idea – I wanted to combine my passion for writing with my interest. So, I started a website to review computer parts.

And websites need hosting. I started with a cheap big name hosting provider. Eventually, the popularity of my website grew, and the hosting provider shut my site down, despite offering “unlimited resources.” It was at that point I learned the difference between shared hosting, how the big brands in hosting operate, and how to manage servers.

Over the following few years, I operated various hosting companies, eventually selling off most of them and transitioning to a different career, retail management.

But, I never felt at home there, and so I never stopped learning new things in the web development industry. While I used that job to learn about business and working with people, I did various freelance side projects to keep my knowledge fresh.

Eventually, a close friend and I were discussing our frustration with the hosting industry being run by a handful of huge, mediocre at best companies, and he started a hosting company, with a focus on providing awesome service to local customers.

After a couple years working there, I took what I learned, and decided to go back into business for myself. And thus, in 2025, Wag Websites was born. It’s a combination of everything I’ve learned and my many years of experience to deliver affordable, quality website solutions to the small businesses that need it the most.

Work Experience

Over the years, I have worked at and owned several different companies, all of which combine to make me who I am today. While not everything I’ve done is directly related to the website solutions I provide now, each workplace and position taught me something.

Owner – Wag Websites

I founded Wag Websites as a way for small businesses to get high quality, easy to use, website solutions, at a price they can afford. While owning a business can be frustrating at times, having my own company gives me the flexibility to provide the solutions that I want to provide, and do things my way. Instead of a rigid framework, I can take the opportunity to really get to know each client and build them the best possible solution. There’s nothing more rewarding than really getting to know someone, deliver an awesome website to them, and grow with them, as they success fuels my success.

Lead Web Developer – HostPoppy

At HostPoppy, I got to work with amazing local customers. I developed and launched the company’s website, as well as built various websites and web apps for customers.

Assistant Store Manager – O’Reilly Auto Parts

While it’s not exactly website related, I learned a lot about how business works in the real world and how to work with people. From challenging coworkers to complex customer interactions, working in retail management is something new every day. From sales strategies to P&L to employee onboarding to resolving customer concerns in a way that worked for both the company and the customer, my time here is valuable. The biggest lessons here were patience and understanding different perspectives.

Datacenter Tech & Linux Sysadmin – Frixel Solutions

While a lot has changed in the hosting and Linux server world in the past decade, what I learned here still serves me today. I worked with a variety of virtualization platforms, control panels, and operating systems. I also used my expertise in computer repair to quickly diagnose and repair servers.

Computer Repair Technician – Renew Computers

My first job ever was at Renew Computers. I got the opportunity to tinker with computers in a productive way, doing repairs on customer machines as well as refurbishing desktops and laptops.

Personal Life

While I’m not sure it matters all that much to potential clients, I do think it’s nice to get to know at least a little bit about the person you’re working with on your new website or web app. So, here’s some stuff about me.

I share the best moments with my partner, Daniel. I’m truly lucky to have him in my life.

Oh, and despite over a decade of working in the automotive sector, I love electric cars, and have had many, all of which have been totally hassle-free. As for what EVs I suggest… If you want something more traditional that delivers a familiar driving experience, GM has a huge lineup, with something for literally anyone across any price point. From the Chevy Equinox EV to the GMC Sierra EV to the Cadillac Escalade IQ to the Honda Prologue (a rebadged Chevy Blazer EV), I’m sure you’ll find something you like. On the other hand, if you want great software and the best driver assistance tech in the world, you can’t beat Tesla. Oh, and even the cheapest Tesla is insanely fast. If you do want a Tesla, can you do me a favor and use my Tesla referral link? You’ll get some exclusive perks, and I get some Tesla account credit. That’s a win win! Regardless of what you pick, I’m sure you’ll love your new EV.

If you want to connect with me on social media, here’s my X (formerly known as Twitter). I will say, Twitter was a much better brand name for that website. Sorry Elon, if you ever read this, it’s not personal (I love my Tesla)… I just think you should have left Twitter as Twitter and used the (admittedly super awesome) X.com domain for something else.

Responsible use of AI

I know many developers who are avoiding AI because they’re afraid it’s going to take their job away. On the contrary, I’ve found that smart use of AI tools like GitHub Copilot and xAI Grok have allowed me to work more efficiently. Whether it’s writing a blog post or a web app, with the right prompts and oversight, AI can offer a better outcome on a better timeline. It doesn’t replace humans, but it’s a great tool to enhance your productivity.

As such, some of my projects and blog posts were made with the help of AI. While there are definitely concerns about ethics, resource usage, and privacy, when used responsibly, AI can empower you, and I’d encourage you to try it out.