Frequently asked questions

Got questions? Let’s patch that up.

Get to know Geek Strong

  • Geek Strong helps geeks build healthier habits with a modern system. patchOS covers all of it — Plan Ahead, Eat Well, Move Often, Stress Less, Love More, and Sleep Deep.

    We create fun, approachable, science-informed stories, programs, and tools that blend technology and design with playful storytelling—making behavior change easier to start and stick.

  • Yes, the Patches and Patch Notes newsletter is free. No need to use an ad blocker. 😀

  • Geek Strong is for geeks who spend a lot of time at desks, on screens, or deep in their own heads.

    Maybe planning feels overwhelming, meals are inconsistent, movement is rare, stress runs high, social connections feel draining, and sleep is all over the place.

    If you want more energy, strength, focus, and longevity—but need a system that fits your lifestyle—you’re in the right place.

  • Geek Strong is an independent digital publishing company based in the greater Atlanta area. All content is created online and shared with a global audience.

  • patchOS is a lifestyle system built on six core habits that support long-term well-being—Plan Ahead, Eat Well, Move Often, Stress Less, Love More, and Sleep Deep.

    These default habits form the foundation of a healthy, balanced life. Think of patchOS as an operating system for living—when the core habits run smoothly, everything else runs better.

  • PatchBot is the Geek Strong mascot. He’s your friendly guide through the patchOS system, helping you build better habits and stay motivated along the way.

Patches

  • Patches are short, story-driven guides that bring patchOS to life. They show how habits play out in the messy, funny, and frustrating moments of everyday life—and how to navigate them with confidence. That’s the Geek Strong way. 🤓💪

  • A typical Patch is a short, visual story focused on a single habit from everyday life. It includes a brief narrative, dialogue, a clear takeaway, and a simple action or reflection to help you apply it to your life.

  • Visual stories are faster to read, easier to remember, and more engaging than long-form articles. They’re designed for geeks seeking clear, concise guidance. Each Patch focuses on a single idea—making it easier to absorb and apply.

  • Every Patch is rooted in established behavior science and habit research. The concepts, frameworks, and takeaways are grounded in what we know about how habits form and change — not trends or quick fixes. patchOS is designed around principles that hold up.

  • Partially. Characters are created with AI-assisted illustration tools, guided by the Geek Strong style and story direction. Every Patch is conceptualized, written, and designed by Geek Strong — with AI serving as a creative sidekick to help bring scenes to life alongside shapes, backgrounds, colors, and typography.

  • Patch characters are fictional, everyday people who reflect real-life situations. They face common challenges and learn to patch the habits that hold them back using patchOS.

    Any resemblance to real people, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

  • Start by exploring a few Patches that align with your current challenges. You can also subscribe to Patch Notes for weekly guidance and updates.

  • Read a Patch, reflect on it, and see what sticks. Each one introduces a practical habit. Use it as a spark to try something new or to think differently about how you’re living.

  • Up to you. One Patch at a time tends to work best—give it time to stick. Otherwise, it just blends into the noise and gets forgotten like a closed browser tab. See where it takes you. No pressure.

  • No. Start with one habit that feels manageable. Small, consistent steps are more effective than big changes that don’t last. If you feel ready to do more, go for it.

  • New patches drop every Saturday, and updates are shared via the Patch Notes newsletter.

Patch Notes

  • Patch Notes is the weekly Geek Strong newsletter. It features new Patches, Patch Trailers, Patch Picks, Patch Insider, Side Quests, and other helpful and fun resources—delivered straight to your inbox. You may also receive occasional updates from the Geek Strong community.

  • Yes. Patch Notes is completely free. No strings attached.

  • When you subscribe, you’ll instantly receive a downloadable, habit-powered crossword that gently messes with your defaults. After that, Patch Notes arrives in your inbox every Saturday.

  • Every Saturday. That’s it. No spam. Geek promise 🤝

  • Absolutely. Every email includes an unsubscribe link. You can unsubscribe or resubscribe anytime—no hard feelings 😉

Patch Picks

  • Patch Picks are curated tools, gear, food, and resources that support the six default habits. They embody Geek Strong values—quality, transparency, thoughtful design, and genuine care for people and the planet.

    Buy fewer things. Buy better things. Patch with purpose.

  • We choose products based on usefulness, design, quality, simplicity, and how well they support the six default habits.

  • Patch Picks are products that Geek Strong uses and trusts. They’re optional upgrades, not requirements. We’re picky and opinionated because quality and value are hard to find.

  • Most Patch Picks include affiliate links. This means Geek Strong may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them—at no additional cost to you.

  • No. The price is the same for you.

  • No. Patch Picks are optional tools that can make certain habits easier or more enjoyable. You can still follow patchOS with simple, low-cost, or everyday alternatives.

Health and safety

  • No. Geek Strong provides educational information on healthy habits—not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It’s designed to support everyday lifestyle improvements, not to replace guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.

    For personal health concerns, consult a qualified healthcare professional. Read Terms

  • Yes—especially if you have existing health conditions, injuries, or concerns. A healthcare professional can help you make safe, appropriate changes. Read Terms

  • Start slowly and adjust as needed. Not every habit works the same for everyone. Listen to your body, and consult a healthcare professional before making major changes.

  • Skip it, adjust it, or try another. patchOS is flexible by design. The goal is progress, not perfection.