This is a very interesting discussion Dave, I never knew about stuff like wireless speed lights and whatnot which I've done some looking into after reading your post. I would try one out, but for the prices good ones look to fetch I think I'm better off sticking with what I'm doing right now.
I'm very curious when it comes to lighting, I use a lot of different things with varying results. I usually feel pretty pleased with what I do though. When I'm trying to even out my lighting I've used mirrors a lot, though I'll keep the foamcore trick in mind.
I don't think I've ever used many original or interesting light tricks of my own though. Do my pics mostly look okay?