When we think about what separates winning traders from those who struggle, we usually picture strategies, indicators, or a bit of insider know-how. But what if the biggest edge has been sitting on your desk all along? In this episode, I sit down with Eddie Z, also known as Russ Hazelcorn, the founder of EZ Trading Computers and EZBreakouts. With more than 37 years of experience as a trader, stockbroker, technologist, and educator, Eddie has built his career around one mission: helping traders cut through noise, avoid expensive mistakes, and get the tools they need to stay competitive in a fast-moving market.
Eddie breaks down the specs that actually matter when building a trading setup, from RAM to CPUs to data feeds, and exposes which so-called “upgrades” are nothing more than overpriced fluff. We also dig into the rise of AI-powered trading platforms and bots, and what traders can do today to prepare their machines for the next wave. As Eddie points out, a lagging system or a missed feed isn’t just an inconvenience—it can be the difference between a profitable trade and a costly loss.
Beyond the hardware, we explore the broader picture. Rising tariffs and global supply chain disruptions are already reshaping the way traders access technology, and Eddie shares practical steps to avoid being caught short. He also explains why many experienced traders overlook their machines as a “secret weapon” and how quick, targeted fixes can transform reliability and performance in under an hour.
This conversation goes deeper than specs and gadgets. Eddie opens up about the philosophy behind the EZ-Factor, his unique approach that blends decades of Wall Street expertise with cutting-edge technology to simplify trading and help people succeed. We talk about his ventures, including EZ Trading Computers, trusted by over 12,000 traders, and EZBreakouts, which delivers actionable daily and weekly picks backed by years of experience.
For traders looking to level up—whether you’re just starting out or managing multiple screens in a professional setting—this episode is packed with insights that can help you sharpen your edge. Eddie’s perspective is clear: the right machine, the right mindset, and the right knowledge can make trading not only more profitable, but, as he likes to put it, as “EZ” as possible.
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