Podcasts about pro tips

Today's show is brought to you by Hogan's Alley, the fantastic magazine devoted to comics history, cartoonists, and the art form we love. Visit HoganMag.com and use the discount code COMICLAB10 for 10% off. Dave Kellett is back from San Diego Comic-Con 2026, and he brought receipts! After 27 years of exhibiting at the show, Dave just had his best Comic-Con ever — including an absolutely bonkers $6,000 Sunday. But a big gross number doesn't necessarily mean a big payday. Brad and Dave dig into the actual economics of exhibiting at one of the world's biggest conventions: booth fees, sales tax, travel, merchandise, lost studio time, and the advantages Dave has because he lives within driving distance of San Diego. After roughly $19,600 in gross sales, Dave estimates his actual profit at about $11,000. Then, they get into the stuff you can actually use at your next convention: Track your sales throughout the day When sales slow down, get active Use drawing as theater Pay attention to your product mix Think about revenue per square inch Let the market prune your merchandise Your merchandise should say something about the buyer — not about you SPONSORED BY HOGAN'S ALLEY This week's episode is sponsored by Hogan's Alley, the fantastic magazine devoted to comics history, cartoonists, and the art form we love. Visit HoganMag.com and use the discount code COMICLAB10 for 10% off. MORE COMIC-CON ADVICE ON PRO TIPS Dave had another 15–20 Comic-Con topics he wanted to cover, so we're continuing the conversation on ComicLab Pro Tips with a deeper dive into conventions, exhibiting, merchandising, and Dave's approach to making a convention financially worthwhile. To hear those episodes, join us at Patreon.com/ComicLab. You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Cartoonist Fran Sundblad, creator of Tiff & Eve, joins Brad for a wide-ranging conversation about creating character-driven comics, finding an audience on Reddit, and learning when not to chase the algorithm. Fran traces Tiff & Eve from its beginnings in her sketchbook to a comic that regularly reaches thousands of readers. She explains how Tiff and Eve represent two very different impulses — Tiff as the superego and Eve as the id — and shares a terrific character-development exercise: Lock your character in a room and ask what they do next. If you don't know the answer, you probably don't know the character well enough yet. Fran and Brad also talk about finding humor in the characters themselves rather than building every strip around a traditional punchline. That approach has helped Tiff & Eve explore Fran's experiences as a trans woman while remaining first and foremost a funny comic about two friends. In this episode: How Tiff & Eve grew out of Fran's sketchbook Writing two characters as opposing parts of your own personality Fran's “locked room” test for determining whether a character is fully developed Character-driven humor vs. setup/punchline comedy Using comedy to make personal experiences relatable What happens when readers interpret your comics differently than you intended Why Fran refuses to explain a joke Surviving hostile comments, Reddit Cares abuse, and the stranger side of online audiences Why cartoonists should post comics to their Reddit profile, not only to individual subreddits Learning the culture of each subreddit instead of treating Reddit as one giant audience Formatting comics differently for different communities — including designing images so Reddit's mobile crop doesn't hide important information Why fewer clicks usually means more readers The danger of chasing trends, politics, and viral Reddit “meta” events simply for upvotes Why a huge viral hit may produce surprisingly few new followers or Patreon supporters Why effort and artistic complexity don't necessarily translate into social-media success The value of clarity, brevity, and consistency on Reddit Knowing when a topical comic is nevertheless necessary because it's true to the characters Sunday Comix, a webcomic collective and email newsletter designed to help cartoonists reach readers without depending entirely on social-media algorithms Fran's experience offers an especially useful reminder for cartoonists trying to build an audience online: don't confuse attention with audience growth. A trendy comic might earn tens of thousands of upvotes, but the work that builds a lasting readership is the work that gives people a reason to come back for your characters. Find Fran Sundblad and Tiff & Eve: Website: FranSundblad.com Bluesky / Instagram: @TiffAndEveComics Reddit: u/CrazyGnomenclature Sunday Comix: https://sundaycomix.com/ You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Although we typically focus on the bright side of being independent cartoonists, a listener asks us to address the downside of webcomics. We'll talk about time management, burnout, financial insecurity, and reader interactions. Then we realize that all those drawbacks have one very important thing in common — and it's not what you'd expect! TODAY'S SHOW ComicLab gets someone engaged! The worst parts of being a webcartoonist. Creativity isn't always consistent. Success doesn't eliminate insecurity. The business work never disappears. Webcomics demand interaction. The drawbacks are the flip side of the benefits! Is the direct market disappearing? Grieve the comic-shop dream—and move forward. Getting outside your comfort zone. Comedy can strengthen dramatic storytelling. Beware the shiny object. You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Serious Angler Bass Fishing Podcast, we break down the free rig for bass fishing with anglers Tyler Madden and Jake Maddox. You'll learn when to throw the free rig, the best gear and line setups, and the presentation tricks that make it one of the most effective techniques for catching more bass. Whether you're new to bass fishing or looking to sharpen your soft plastics game, this episode gives you a complete 101 style breakdown of the free rig. Tune in to level up your bass fishing skills and start putting more fish in the boat.

Just when you thought we were getting over tainted food worries, there is a salmonella alert affecting Chipotle and Qdoba restaurant customers. The issue entails jalapenos sourced from Sineloa, Mexico, and isn't as severe as the tainted-lettuce cylosporiasis drama. This jalepeno issue has not been attached to any grocery retailers (yet). PRO TIP -- avoid jalepno lettuce wraps TFN!!

Patreon backers have access to an exclusive ComicLab Churn Rate spreadsheet — it does the math for you! Is your Patreon actually growing—or are new members disguising a retention problem? Brad walks Dave through the process of calculating churn rate and shows how one number can unlock a much clearer understanding of a membership business. They discuss subscriber retention, lifetime value, onboarding, well-timed interventions, and how to determine whether advertising or convention appearances are truly worth the investment. Then, Dave asks whether publishing a children's book page by page on his existing webcomic could finally help him finish it. Topics include: Skunk Watch 2026 What churn rate means for a Patreon creator Why total membership and revenue can give you an incomplete picture Finding the necessary numbers in Patreon Insights Two methods for calculating churn rate What constitutes a healthy churn rate Why one month of data isn't enough Calculating your average churn rate over time Calculating your retention rate Estimating average subscriber lifetime Calculating average monthly revenue per member Determining the lifetime value of a Patreon backer Why retaining a current member is cheaper than acquiring a new one Using Patreon Autopilot to reduce cancellations Evaluating the quality and value of your Patreon rewards Improving the onboarding experience for new members Welcome messages, digital gifts, and personalized Bonjoro videos Brad's one-week Patreon check-in Helping new backers navigate a complicated archive Using average subscriber lifetime to schedule a retention intervention Brad's 18-month check-in and longtime-backer gift Repackaging older work into valuable digital rewards Rewarding and recognizing your longest-serving supporters Exclusive livestreams, previews, and “inner circle” benefits Calculating an acceptable customer-acquisition cost Evaluating paid advertising with lifetime-value data Tracking whether a comic convention was financially worthwhile Why free webcomics may still be the best customer-acquisition strategy Dave's productivity tip: drawing to Brazilian Carnival music Using a webcomic schedule to force yourself to complete a children's book Why serialized children's-book pages may not satisfy online readers Publishing complete thematic sections instead of individual pages Building a new project into an established comic's schedule The difficulty of building an audience for an independent children's book When a traditional children's-book publisher may be helpful Creative control, editorial notes, and refusing unwanted revisions Breaking publishing rules and trusting your own experience Releasing a finished independent book before seeking wider distribution Why experienced cartoonists may resist redrawing or revising completed work ComicLab LIVE at the National Cartoonists Society Reuben Awards   You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

We've all found ourselves leaving a conversation and suddenly realizing the other person did not have any interest in us at all. I've thought at times, "What am I even doing here? This person just wants to hear themselves talk." You may be tanking your sales and not even knowing by having sub-par listening skills. In this episode of Wisdom's Table, I dive deep into what I believe to be the true X factor in sales: effective listening skills. Over my 20 years of entrepreneurial experience, I've noticed a significant gap in discussions around sales techniques—specifically, the importance of listening. While many focus on charisma, appearance, or how to handle objections, I argue that the ability to listen actively is what truly sets successful salespeople apart. I'm covering 4 keys to great listening skills that will not only help you build good relationships, but help you win the sale.   TIMESTAMPS 00:00:01 - Welcome to Wisdom's Table Introduction to the podcast and its focus on growth in various aspects of life. 00:00:26 - The X Factor in Sales Introduction to the concept of listening skills as the key to successful sales. 00:00:57 - The Importance of Listening Discussion on the lack of emphasis on developing good listening skills in business. 00:01:39 - Personal Anecdote: A Missed Opportunity Sharing a story about a meeting where one party failed to ask questions, highlighting the importance of curiosity. 00:04:25 - Understanding Value Through Questions Exploring how asking questions can reveal the value someone brings to the table. 00:05:28 - Common Reasons for Poor Listening Identifying reasons why people may not listen well, such as nervousness or lack of awareness. 00:06:31 - Active Listening Skills Introduction to practical active listening skills to improve conversations. 00:07:43 - Body Language Matters The significance of body language in demonstrating engagement and openness. 00:10:12 - Reflecting Back What You Hear The importance of paraphrasing and clarifying to ensure mutual understanding. 00:12:28 - Asking Follow-Up Questions Encouraging the use of follow-up questions to keep conversations balanced and engaging. 00:15:27 - Avoiding Assumptions The necessity of not assuming what others are thinking and the importance of asking clarifying questions. 00:18:16 - Building Relationships Through Listening How active listening fosters relationships and enhances business interactions. 00:20:21 - Pro Tips for Effective Communication Advice on timing your speaking and editing your contributions in conversations. 00:22:37 - Conclusion and Call to Action Wrapping up the episode and inviting listeners to join the next session for prayer.

Discover why grout lines get so dirty and what most homeowners do wrong when trying to clean them. We break down the science behind grout discoloration, share professional restoration techniques, and reveal when DIY just won't cut it. Learn more at https://steemerofsouthflorida.com Stanley Steemer of South Florida City: Delray Beach Address: 2085 South Congress Ave Website: https://steemerofsouthflorida.com

SEPTA gets us around the city, to the airport, to the stadiums, and to the surrounding suburbs. And later this month, the transit agency is overhauling its network of buses. Host Trenae Nuri and creative producer Siani Colón chat about all the changes you need to know, perks you can get with your SEPTA Key Card, and tips to make you a pro at riding public transit.   Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor. Sign up here. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Visit Delco PA

The Three Quivering Questions of Modern Society:How can I achieve my goals with less effort?How can I achieve my goals in less time?How and where can I find pleasure?These are the “How to…” questions.(I call them the Quivering Questions because they contain an anxious energy similar to that of an addict looking for his or her next “fix.”)Shortcuts, pro tips, life hacks, and insider secrets are snippets that exist to tell you “How to…”Schools, seminars, master mind groups, and countless consultants exist to tell you “How to…”Millions of books and Youtube videos have been written and produced to tell you “How to…”The answers to the “How to” questions are always Informational.The Three Ancient Questions That Echo Within Us:Who Am I? (Identity)Why Am I Here? (Purpose)What Must I Overcome? (Adventure)Those are the “Fascination” questions.Fascination is the drive behind our search for God and our hunger for entertainment.Faith and entertainment seem incongruent until you realize that both of them fascinate us because they change our mood and lift us higher.The answers to the “Fascination” questions are always Relational.When you understand these 6 questions, you understand the essence, attraction, and purpose of social media.Youtube offers only “How to” videos and “Fascination” videos.Likewise, every book is either a “How to” book or a “Fascination” book.Television shows are either “How to” or “Fascination.” Movies and music lend themselves mostly to fascination.I told you, “Fascination is the drive behind our search for God and our hunger for entertainment.”When we contemplate our existence and the possibility of God, we ask,Who Am I?Why Am I Here?What Must I Overcome?Your answers to those questions will determine your faith, whether it be Judeo-Christian, Hindu, Moslem, Buddhist, Atheist, Agnostic, or one of the many other belief systems with millions of followers.When entertainment elevates our mood, our fascination comes from identity reinforcement.The books, movies, and television shows that we love are the ones that show us a reflection of ourselves.When we identify with a character, we vicariously experience the challenges they face. These challenges are known as the plot or the “narractive arc.”We likewise experience the evolution of that character when they are changed by those challenges. This is known as the “character arc.”The characters with whom we identify remind us of who we are.Identity reinforcement is the essence of affinity groups.An affinity group is any group of people who are attracted to the same thing.Every religion is an affinity group.The fans of a sports team are an affinity group.People who follow fashion are an affinity group.If you like jazz music, or hip-hop, or Jeeps or NASCAR or backpacking or sewing or science fiction or romance or current events or capitalism or gossip, you are in an affinity group.Mass media and social media exist to attract and serve affinity groups.The size of a business opportunity is largely determined by size of the affinity group it serves.If you are an electrician, a plumber, or an HVAC technician, your affinity groups will be people who like and need electricity, running water, and comfortable temperatures. Your limiting factors will bethe population of your trade areathe strength of your competitors.how often the average person needs your servicesWhether or not your name is the one people think of first and feel the best about.If you are a dentist, a jeweler, a lawyer, or a tree trimmer, your limiting factors will bethe population of your trade areathe strength of your competitorshow often the average person needs your servicesWhether or not your name is the one people think of first and feel the best about.If you own a restaurant, a grocery store, or sell some other product that people need weekly, your limiting factors will bethe population of the neighborhood in which you are locatedthe quality of the customer's experiencethe visibility of your locationBelieve it or not, everything I have told you in these 727 words is extremely important when you are creating the messages that you will spend your advertising budget to deliver.I understand if you are surprised by this, but it is true, nonetheless.Roy H. WilliamsFacebook has 3.07 billion monthly active usersYouTube has 2.5 billion monthly active usersInstagram has 2 billion monthly active usersTikTok has 1.58 billion monthly active usersLinkedIn has 930 million monthly active usersNOTE: Monthly Active Users tells you only the Reach of these platforms. But to compare Effectiveness, you would need to know how much time each week a user spends on each platform. You would also need to know how many times each week the same user could be reached on that platform. I'm Indy BeagleTHIS WEEK on Monday Morning Radio: Steven Mercer speaks from personal experience when he tells entrepreneurs how to build a service practice without sacrificing their values, their time, or their financial stability.Deputy rover Maxwell Rotbart asks brilliant questions and scribbles notes while Steven Mercer explains how to transition gradually from current employment to independent practice. He then explains how to attract clients through referrals and valuable content. He also explains how to decide when advertising makes sense.Do you want to know the best ways to set fees, establish boundaries, and handle difficult clients?Class will begin the moment you arrive at MondayMorningRadio.com.

ForeFlight's Premium tier now connects to ChatGPT for flight planning, weather interpretation, and NOTAM parsing. It can't make your go/no-go call — it doesn't know your fatigue, your currency, or your comfort in that terrain — but it can compress hours of planning into minutes. The bigger point: your students are already using AI. They're just not telling you. That's why the entire first day of our 7-day Initial CFI class is now devoted to teaching AI tools for both instructors and learners, starting August 10th. Also in this issue: the Aeronautical Knowledge Gaps bundle at $300 instead of $1,400, the new Pipistrel/Textron Voyager and Cirrus TRAC10 trainers built to MOSAIC standards, and three ProTips on scheduling and preflight briefings.

What belongs at the beginning of your book? Brad and Dave discuss whether an anti-AI statement offers creators any meaningful protection, break down the information that belongs on a copyright page, and explore the many ways cartoonists can approach the first page of a story or chapter. The best opening isn't determined by a universal rule—it should establish the right expectations, reflect the story you're telling, and give readers a reason to keep going. Topics include: Skunk Watch 2026 Do anti-AI statements offer creators legal protection? Why a standard copyright notice may already cover AI training The difference between creating, declaring, and registering a copyright What information belongs on a copyright page Copyright and trademark ownership When to use ™ and when to use ® Print location, printing numbers, and edition information ISBNs and Library of Congress numbers Combining copyright, title, credit, and dedication pages Should a comic begin with a splash page? Does the main character need to appear on page one? Using the opening page to establish tone and make a promise to the reader Why different stories require different kinds of openings Brad's two-page system for beginning a new Evil Inc chapter Creating separate covers for SFW and NSFW editions Using chapter openers as archive markers, promotional art, and production buffers Dave's approach to prologues, chapter openings, and world-building vignettes The difference between the first page and the first chapter ComicLab LIVE at the National Cartoonists Society Reuben Awards You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

What if some of the richest learning in your homeschool happened after you walked out the front door?We're exploring how to plan family outings that turn science, history, art, literature, music, sports, and local culture into hands-on experiences. We share what to pack in a reliable go-bag, how to prepare children for unfamiliar environments, and why a little advance exposure can make an outing more exciting. You'll also hear dozens of affordable field-trip ideas, from factory tours and art scavenger hunts to author homes, grocery stores, women's sports, and geocaching.Grab your calendar, choose an adventure, and make room for learning beyond the lesson plan.Resources:Registration is open now for Building Brave Writers: Description, Becoming a Critical Thinker, and other awesome Brave Writer classes! Check out the special offer at Talkbox.MOM/brave and start speaking a new language with your kids from day one!Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that's sure to grab and keep your child's attentionFind watercolor pencils (along with our favorite readalouds and nonfiction) in the Brave Writer Book ShopVisit Julie's Substack to find her special podcast for kids (and a lot more!) Find community at the Brave Learner Home Learn more about the Brave Writer Literature & Mechanics programsSubscribe to Julie's Substack newsletters, Brave Learning with Julie Bogart and Julie Off Topic, and Melissa's Catalog of EnthusiasmsSign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684Interested in advertising with us? Reach out to media@bravewriter.comConnect with Julie:Instagram: @juliebravewriterThreads: @juliebravewriterBluesky: @bravewriter.comFacebook: facebook.com/bravewriterConnect with Melissa:Website: melissawiley.comSubstack: melissawiley.substack.comInstagram: @melissawileybooksBluesky: @melissawiley.bsky.socialProduced by NOVA

Headline of the Week contender #6: 2 arrested after leaf blower and hammer used in fight over property line in Virginia, Review and voting for HOTW, Man in Lee County Florida arrested after detectives seize more than one kilogram of cocaine delivered through the mail

Headline of the Week contender #6: 2 arrested after leaf blower and hammer used in fight over property line in Virginia, Review and voting for HOTW, Man in Lee County Florida arrested after detectives seize more than one kilogram of cocaine delivered through the mail See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Firmware for the XR8 with new brake tuning features. Matthew reports from the PDX Underground Stock Nats, and Charlie gives us his highlights from Scale Challenge West. Pro Tips and More! Have suggestions for the show, or want to Enter to Win Free RC Stuff?  - Email us!  RCStuff@Hobbywing.comDon't forget to check out the Hobbywing Official Youtube Channel : https://www.youtube.com/c/HOBBYWINGOfficial

Cartoonist and author Dylan Meconis joins Dave Kellett to discuss marketing middle-grade webcomics, working with fans who offer to translate your work, and finding the right balance between control and accessibility. They also share practical advice for cartoonists creating an autobiographical avatar — including how simplification, posture, clothing, line quality, and tone can make a character feel unmistakably like you. Topics include: Marketing and monetizing middle-grade webcomics Reaching young readers through parents, newsletters, libraries, and local events Using print editions, zines, and snail-mail clubs to complement online comics Deciding whether to permit fan translations Maintaining quality control with beta readers and creator-hosted translations Balancing copyright concerns with the desire to reach new audiences Designing a cartoon version of yourself for memoir and autobiographical comics You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

TWS News 1: Attractive Guy Flexes – 00:24 New Lost & Found Song – 3:55 Anthem Video – 7:32 Random Acts of Audio: 500 Cats – 11:06 Amateur First Responder: Porto-Potty – 12:55 TWS News 2: CVS Pet Meds – 17:08 Why You Chose Your Church – 20:11 TMI – 28:25 Pro Tip – 30:33 Prayer Wall – 34:34 Rock Report: Jason Sudeikis on Tipping – 37:19 YouTube University – 42:24 You can join our Wally Show Poddies Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/WallyShowPoddies This podcast is crowd funded - that means that you help make it possible. If you like it and want to support it, give here.

Send us Fan MailOn this episode of the Serious Angler Bass Fishing Podcast, pro bass angler Bob Downey breaks down the exact decision making process he uses before he ever makes his first cast of the day. We dig into how he decides whether to start shallow or deep, and how he decides between throwing a moving bait to cover water or slowing down with a finesse presentation on the bottom.Bob walks through the real factors that go into these calls: water temperature, seasonal patterns, water clarity, forage location, fishing pressure, and current conditions. We also get into what happens when those two decisions conflict, like when everything points shallow but everything also points slow, and how he adjusts on the fly once his starting game plan doesn't produce.

What if you could ensure every tour departs with a full load of customers? Harish Shroff believes it’s possible to sell every seat on every departure. He has helped Indus Travel scale up to become one of Canada’s premier world wide tour companies. And he knows how to help your company do the same. Harish joins this episode of the podcast to talk about the systems that help tour companies scale from from mom-and-pop to power players. He also shares sales and marketing techniques to help fill every seat on your next tour. Plus, we have news about an AI initiative to prevent air travel delays, a special free resource for new travel planners and a Hot Minute about the problems in your travel organization that tech can’t solve.   Insights from Harish Harish had a lot of great insight about what it takes to grow a travel company. Here’s what he had to say about the work required to take your operation to the next level: “As you scale, you also have to change and evolve. Initially it is 80% passion and your systems are 20%. As you grow, your core value still remains the same, but it becomes like a 20% of your foundation, and your systems become 80% of your growth. So as you are growing, you really need to add more and more systems.” Plus, she had great perspectives on: Building a tour company people want to work for Instilling trust in your travelers Why you’re probably spreading your marketing efforts too thin     Resources Mentioned in This Episode Learn more about Indus Travel at indus.travel. Get Harish's book “Mastering the Art of Sales” on Amazon. Get your free copy of Travel Free and Bring Your Friends here.     Key Moments From This Episode 1:24 — Travel News: Using AI to prevent air traffic delays 2:48 — News From Us: A great resources for first-time group travel planners 6:08 — How Harish Shroff found his place in group travel 8:40 — Why Indus Travel has grown while others are struggling 11:19 — Building a tour company people want to work for 13:20 — The systems required to scale a tour company up 16:05 — How quickly can your travel company grow? 18:28 — Secrets for filling more seats on your departures 21:42 — Which promotional channels are most effective for selling tours? 25:15 — Instilling trust in your travelers 28:48 — Leveraging the scale of your travel partners 41:43 — Hot Minute: Can AI fix what's broken in your travel business?     Watch the Full Interview See the full interview with Harish on our YouTube channel. https://youtu.be/joq8KtDDQwg     About the Podcast Gather and Go with Brian Jewell is a tourism industry podcast that helps group travel leaders plan, promote and lead better trips. There are also tips and insights for destination marketers and others who support the tourism trade. Each episode reaches thousands of professional tour operators, travel agents and the volunteer group leaders they serve. The audience also includes destination museum leaders, church travel leaders and other tourism enthusiasts around the world. Each show includes an interview with a smart travel pro or an insightful person from outside tourism who’s expertise can help make travel businesses better. You’ll also hear travel news, road tips and more. New episodes are released about twice monthly. You can find Gather and Go wherever your listen to podcasts or subscribe by email.

This week, Brad and Dave talk about the best business model for longform webcomics — and why putting your comic online for free is still the strongest way to build a sustainable career. Also: Kickstarter's late-pledge and pledge-manager tools, the difference between market research and mirror research, and how to keep going when your first posts get nothing but crickets. ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW... Dave's backyard skunk problem may or may not require Super Soakers What's the best business model for longform webcomics? Why fear of theft can stop creators from building an audience Why free-to-read comics remain the best foundation for a comics business “First comes the crowd, then comes the funding” Why readers who enjoy your work online are often first in line to buy the book How delayed access and early-access posts fit into a Patreon strategy Why exclusive side stories can work better than paywalling your main archive Avoiding physical rewards on Patreon and Substack Dave will be at San Diego Comic-Con booth 1228 with free ComicLab pins (use the super-easy mnemonic: 1BAT)  Kickstarter late pledges and Pledge Manager are bringing in real money Why charging shipping closer to fulfillment can be safer Market research vs. mirror research How to estimate Kickstarter shipping more accurately What to do when you start posting online and get “crickets” Why seven posts is not enough time to expect traction Reframing early work as building an archive for future fans Social-media advice for giving readers a reason to engage Why success in comics is a marathon, not a sprint You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Dave Kellett returns from his first-ever college reunion with a full heart — and a renewed appreciation for old friends, running jokes, and the occasional listener washing dishes through the cold open. From there, Brad and Dave dig into one of the trickiest parts of writing comics: how much work should the reader have to do to “get” the punchline? Using Brad's motorcycle-jump-over-a-ravine metaphor, they discuss why wider joke “canyons” can create bigger laughs, why shorter jumps can feel merely “technically funny,” and why the best cartoonists learn how to build strong launching ramps while understanding that every reader brings a different landing ramp. Also in this episode: How to show music in a silent medium, why semi-realistic comics should still embrace comics iconography, a quick San Diego Comic-Con update, Bluesky's expanded image carousel, and why obsessing over analytics can become a form of creative procrastination. Topics covered in this episode include: Writing punchlines that require inference from the reader Brad's “motorcycle jumping a ravine” metaphor for humor Why wider joke gaps can produce bigger laughs The difference between “funny” and “technically funny” Why some jokes land for one reader and miss for another How audience literacy, life experience, and context affect comedy Why “it took me a second” can be a feature, not a bug The danger of making every joke too obvious Why memorable comics often take bigger comedic swings Why being someone's “top three cartoonist” matters more than broad mild approval The difference between newspaper-era comics and webcomics-era audience building Dave's San Diego Comic-Con booth update The free ComicLab pin for listeners at Booth 1228 Bluesky expanding post image limits from 4 images to 10 How the new Bluesky carousel can help sequential artists How to communicate piano music in comics Why floating music notes are not “too cartoony” for semi-realistic comics Using established comics iconography instead of reinventing the wheel Why comics can suggest music but rarely reproduce the experience of music How manga and anime use visual language more freely Using musical notation as a visual “spice,” not the whole dish Why analytics can become creative avoidance Whether it matters how quickly a comic reaches its maximum views Why “magic number” thinking can distract from improving the next comic Why creators should spend less time dusting bookcases and more time making better comics What's better? A simple gag or one that requires the audience to think? UPDATE: Comic-Con International booth 1228 Update: Bluesky update... 10 images per post! Indicating music in a realistic comic How long does it take to achieve maximum views? You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

High-waisted denim shorts are a summer staple—but only if styled the right way. Discover smart tricks for balancing proportions, choosing complementary pieces, and creating polished, standout looks in 2026. For more information, visit https://jendue.com/ Jendue City: Coral Gables Address: 1550 Madruga Ave Website: https://jendue.com/ Phone: +1-561-372-9111 Email: Cenk@jendue.com

Wait...I Can Transform My Relationship in Just 42 Days? Join us on this episode of Shameless Sex as we give away all of the prime tips from the game-changing Intimacy Rewired course with the masterminds behind it, Ian Stratton and Amy Baldwin. You'll get the inside scoop on their 6-week program that has already changed the lives of many, and we're giving away the top takeaways so you can start applying the life-changing tools right now. Here's what you'll learn: * The pillars of Intimacy Rewired and how they can help you break free from patterns that hold you back and go from good to great in the bedroom and beyond * How to master the art of communication and become a pleasure expert in the bedroom * Techniques to kick shame to the curb and move towards deep love and connection * How to integrate active learning and practical tools that actually stick to transform your intimacy Ian Stratton, a seasoned healing expert with a passion for making personal growth accessible, and Amy Baldwin, with her signature enthusiasm, have joined forces to create a program that's not just informative but also fun and engaging. With their unique blend of Internal Family Systems, somatic psychotherapy, and more, they'll guide you through the journey of transformation. As a listener, you'll not only get the exclusive lowdown on Intimacy Rewired, but you'll also score a special discount when you sign up. Just head to ⁠https://intimacyrewired.com ⁠and mention the show to get started and get a special discount. Tune in to this episode to get ready to rewire your intimacy and transform your relationship. We give you the tools. Now all you have to do is listen and start to practice! Come to our October 2026 Couple's retreats! Learn more and reserve your spot here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.shamelesssex.com/retreat⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Do you love us? Do you REALLY love us? Then order ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠our book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ now! Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠shamelesssex.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to snag your copy Support Shameless Sex by sending us gifts via our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Wish List⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on IG ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@shamelesssexpodcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other links: Up-level your life and get at least 15% off any annual membership at ⁠http://masterclass.com/shameless⁠ Get 10% off + free shipping with code SHAMELESS on Uberlube AKA our favorite lubricant at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://uberlube.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get 15% off the best sex toys with code SHAMELESSSEX at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://purepleasureshop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Work with some of our favorite sexual health and hormone specialists at https://swanmd.com + mention Shameless Sex for a discount

This week, Brad and Dave discuss one of the easiest traps for independent creators to fall into: Outsourcing important business or creative decisions to reader polls. Audience feedback can be useful, but when creators ask readers to steer decisions about Patreon tiers, Kickstarter rewards, publishing strategy, or creative direction, they often get noisy, contradictory advice that can lead them away from their own best judgment. Topics covered in this episode include: Why readers are experts in consumption, not creation The danger of asking your audience to make business decisions for you Brad's cautionary tale from his early days as a newspaper designer Why negative comments carry more psychological weight than positive ones The difference between listening to readers and asking readers to decide Why feedback should be treated as a compass, not a steering wheel How polling readers can create factions and resentment among backers Why creators should rely first on their own instincts, goals, and judgment The value of seeking advice from trusted peers and experienced professionals Why no single expert — including ComicLab — should be treated as the only authority Dave's hierarchy of advice: Heart and mind first, peers and pros second, passive reader feedback third Erika Moen's thoughtful counterpoint about social-media assistants How a social-media assistant can protect creators from harassment, criticism, and burnout The difference between a social-media assistant as a partner versus a replacement Plans and possibilities for future live ComicLab events Dave's San Diego Comic-Con appearance at Booth 1228, including free ComicLab pins for listeners A listener question about “boomer humor” and whether it should be taken as an insult The difference between old-fashioned joke structure and out-of-touch subject matter Why traditional setup-and-punchline comedy still works How Reddit comments often reflect meme culture more than thoughtful criticism When repeated criticism might be worth filtering for a useful grain of truth Why creators should protect their confidence while staying open to thoughtful feedback You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

We are temporarily renaming this podcast From D to A - From Data to Action. Because data is almost useless unless you do something meaningful with it. Josh "One of a Kind" Silverbauer hopped on the pod to dig deeper into the 'analytics' and 'data' part of product building. Identifying better ways to tell the 'data' story, and better ways to communicate that data so you actually can get shit done. We got into:- Josh's Pro Tip for consultants and agencies (it blew my mind, I'm serious)- How 'data' isn't enough, and how presenting trust and authority is critical to how you communicate with data- What data engineers critically need to do when communicating data- His honest views on dashboards (is it beyond theater...?)Go follow Josh on LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsilverbauer/AND HIS BAND....?!https://open.spotify.com/artist/7ek3eQ8HOLZgtE8FgAy0G2 Also go follow Shiva Manjunath on LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shiva-manjunath/⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to our newsletter for more memes, clips, and awesome content!⁠⁠https://fromatob.beehiiv.com/

You want to sell your photography services? Don't know where to start. Watch this for Lindsay's step-by-step methods for email marketing, social media strategy, and the best tools to make this easy for you.  

Stop losing deals and start overcoming customer hesitation. Join Mark Hunter as he breaks down how to handle the all-too-familiar objection, "I need to think about it." Discover the mindset shift that separates top performers from those who never make quota. Mark explores ways to recognize whether a pause is a true pending 'yes' or just a disguised 'no,' and how to respond in the moment without caving or panicking.  Learn to ask the right questions that bring you closer to the customer's critical needs while keeping the sales conversation alive. Get prepared for your next meeting and stay in control even when a prospect puts up roadblocks.

As we approach the end of the sermon series through the book of Romans, Pastor Jonathan shares a sermon with a more practical message to our calling for Missions. In this talk, Pastor Jonathan walks through the second half of Romans 15, which highlights some of the important elements of missions as exemplified by the apostles. We may think we know what mission entails, but far too often, our views are narrowed by common misconceptions or a lack of understanding of our calling. Today, Pastor Jonathan helps demystify this, encouraging us to recognize that we are all called to missions and challenging us to step into this calling the right way.

This week, Brad and Dave discuss what happens after a cartoonist achieves the dream: making a living from comics. They explain why success can create its own time-management problems, how to protect the thing that's already working, and why adding books, Kickstarter campaigns, merch, newsletters, or conventions should happen gradually. They also talk about practical systems for numbering webcomic pages, naming files, and keeping longform comics organized over time. Main topics covered Weird convention-reader encounters, including disputed signatures and free-sketch requests What to do when your comic and Patreon are working, but there's no time for anything else Protecting the “engine” of your business before adding new projects Avoiding concentration risk when most income comes from one platform Adding new business layers slowly instead of trying to do everything at once Using small projects, like enamel pins, as manageable learning experiences Why side projects can derail your main comic if you're not careful Finding extra time without wrecking your life or mental health Dave's San Diego Comic-Con booth and the free ComicLab enamel pin How to number pages for longform webcomics The difference between website numbering and book-page numbering Using SEO-friendly titles, focus keyphrases, transcripts, and alt text File-naming conventions for comics, including dates, chapters, pages, and vertical-scroll segments Planning ahead for long-running comics so your numbering system doesn't break later You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Welcome back to Episode 2 of The Up LINC: Pro Tips and Creator Stories from the LINC Studio! This week, we are thrilled to sit down with Dr. Karen Barton, creator and host of the Geographies of Hope and Resilience podcast. In this fun and deeply inspiring conversation, Dr. Barton shares what it takes to transition from teaching at the University of Northern Colorado to building an engaging presence behind the mic. We dive into the art of storytelling and explore how she beautifully integrates her geographical and sustainability research with GIS and Story Maps to bring global humanitarian stories to life. We also get into the technical side of things, breaking down her creative studio workflow and how she manages her time as a creator. Pro Tips & Topics Covered: From the Classroom to the Studio: How Dr. Barton's background in education informs her approach to podcasting. Multi-Dimensional Storytelling: Innovative ways to use GIS and Story Maps to provide rich, visual context to audio narratives. Creator Workflow: Practical advice on managing the creative process, organizing research, and staying consistent in the studio.

What seems like a simple question about exclamation points opens up a much bigger discussion about the power of comics lettering. Brad and Dave talk about punctuation, word balloons, font choices, and the unique grammar of comics — and why cartoonists have tools that prose writers can only dream of. They also share thoughts on staying creative during major disruptions, from studio moves to home renovations. On today's show... Exclamation points in comics: how many is too many? Whether to use one, two, or three exclamation points Why comics grammar differs from prose grammar Using lettering, font size, bolding, and balloon shape instead of extra punctuation When punctuation becomes unnecessary in comics lettering Nate Piekos's The Essential Guide to Comic Book Lettering Question marks, exclamation points, and the interrobang How punctuation order can affect emotional meaning Writing dialogue for comics: numerals, abbreviations, and natural speech Jim Davis, Garfield, and simplifying comics language Meeting readers where they are through visual storytelling NCS Reuben Awards weekend in Columbus, Ohio Brad and Dave's panel: “Actionable Advice in a Time of Change” Remodeling, moving studios, and creative disruption Setting up a dedicated creative space during chaos Managing the cognitive load of unfinished studio/home projects Why working ahead matters before a move or remodel The danger of putting fun distractions in your studio The temptation of arcade cabinets, pool tables, and other creativity killers You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

In today's world, your smartphone can be your most powerful travel tool — if you have the right apps loaded up. Travel advisors Ryan and Julie of Wander and Beyond Travel break down their go-to apps for every stage of your trip, from the planning phase all the way to clearing customs on your way home.Destination-Specific Apps Start with the app for wherever you're going. Disney's My Disney Experience app is a must-download the moment you book — use it to explore menus, check wait times, and link your reservation. Cruise lines (Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Princess, and others) each have their own apps, and all-inclusive resorts often have one too. Download them before you leave home and take time to explore them ahead of your trip.Airline Apps Download your airline's app, set up notifications, and always screenshot your boarding pass so you have it offline. And yes — printing a paper boarding pass is still a smart backup move.FlightAware Julie tracks every client's flights through FlightAware, which sends real-time alerts for delays, gate changes, and cancellations. She recommends clients download it too for peace of mind.Rideshare & Transit Apps In the US, grab both Uber and Lyft. Traveling internationally? Look into region-specific apps like FreeNow or Bolt, and don't forget local transit apps for subway or bus systems.WhatsApp Outside the US, WhatsApp is how the world communicates. Tour operators, resort concierges, and transfer companies often use it exclusively. Set it up before you go.Cruise Legend A newer favorite for cruisers who like to explore independently. See which ships are in port on your sailing day and find out what's within walking distance of the dock.Mobile Passport Control For US citizens re-entering the country, this app lets you submit passport and customs info digitally, helping your group move through the line faster.Pro Tip from Ryan: Move all your travel apps to your phone's front screen before a trip so everything is easy to find on the go.Where in the World? Julie's neighbors are currently on a nine-night Disney Dream cruise through Greece, Croatia, and Malta — their kids' first trip to Europe!Next week: specialty river cruises.Wander and Beyond Travel → wonderandbeyondtravel.comSupport the showLove the podcast? Help us continue to create great travel content by supporting the show. You can do that here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1197029/supporters/newReady to plan your vacation?  Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress! Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation"Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page!Please share the show with your travel buddies!!  Click this link and share the show!Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!

Are you struggling to fill your pipeline? Many sales professionals are hesitant to ask for referrals because they fear it comes across as self-serving or uncomfortable. In this episode of The Selling Podcast, Scott and Mike break down the three most effective strategies to turn satisfied customers into your best advocates, proving that asking for referrals doesn't have to be forced—it just requires the right timing and approach.The Three Keys to Asking for Referrals1. Capitalize on the "Success Moment": Timing is everything. The best time to ask for a referral is during the "euphoria" phase—that moment when your customer is experiencing a successful outcome and is genuinely excited about the solution you provided. Don't wait for a follow-up call; seize the moment when the client is already praising your work.2. Ask for Specific Individuals: Avoid being vague. Instead of asking if a company knows of other organizations that could use your services, ask for the names of specific individuals. This makes it easier to draw a personal connection and target someone who may have moved to a different department or organization.3. Facilitate a "Soft Introduction": Lower the risk for your client by requesting a low-pressure connection, such as a LinkedIn introduction, an email copy, or even a casual lunch. When asking for this, encourage the client to share the emotion they felt—how they felt before you solved their problem versus how they feel now.Pro-Tips for Seamless ReferralsThe "Soft Open": Set the stage early. Within the first ten minutes of a conversation, gently mention that you help others in similar situations. This prepares the client for the eventual request once they achieve their own "success moment".Lead with Emotion: People connect with stories, not just stats. When a client refers you, it is far more powerful when they share their emotional journey: "I was frustrated, but now I feel free". Teach your clients to frame their recommendations with that same passion and feeling.Be Sincere: Authenticity is your best tool. Your clients know you are in business to make money, but if you focus on genuinely sharing the success and solving problems for others, the referral becomes a natural, helpful extension of the relationship.SEO Tagssales podcast, referral marketing, sales pipeline, sales tips, lead generation, customer success, sales strategy, relationship building, consultative sales, business growth, The Selling Podcast, professional development

Color Guard, Winter Guard & Marching Band Design AnalysisDesign analysis does not have to feel like a mystery. In this special Pro Tip Besties episode of On A Water Break, Nicole Younger and Dalton Stout dig into the Design Analysis caption with real questions from real color guard, winter guard, and marching band programs.This conversation originates on On A Water Break and is presented in collaboration with Guard Closet and the Design Closet.Nicole and Dalton are joined by Preston Copas, Annie Stegall, and Jordan Fontana for a practical conversation about writing smarter shows, designing for the performers in front of you, and building visual programs that are achievable, clear, musical, and effective.In this episodeDesigning for beginner color guard performers without making the show boringHow marching band guard writing reads from the standsWhy simple choreography can still create effectBuilding a Plan B before rehearsal pressure hitsWhat judges may mean when they ask for “more variety”How to avoid split focus in color guard and marching band stagingWriting for mixed skill levelsFinishing phrases and strengthening transitionsAvoiding midseason “science fair project” rewritesTeaching performance without just saying “smile”Quick fixes for common design problemsFeaturingNicole Younger — Guard Closet / Design Closet — Instagram: @o2bnpjsDalton Stout — Instagram: @saltydaltiPreston Copas — University at Albany Winterguard — Instagram: @ualbanyguard / @heylookitsprestonAnnie Stegall — Corbin High School / University of the Cumberlands — Instagram/TikTok: @corbin.colorguard / Instagram: @whatthefawkbroJordan Fontana — Lecanto Emeralds — Instagram: @lecanto.emeraldsLinksLearn more about Guard Closet's Design ClosetVisit Guard ClosetFollow On A Water BreakFollow Guard Closet on InstagramFollow On A Water Break on InstagramOn A Water Break WebsiteFind On A Water Break: Website: onawaterbreak.com | Listen Everywhere: linktr.ee/onawaterbreak | Be a Guest: onawaterbreakpodcast@gmail.com#ColorGuard #WinterGuard #MarchingBand #DesignAnalysis #MarchingArts

Today's show is sponsored by Huion, makers of the Huion Kamvas 22 (Gen 3) — a 21.5" pen display with a gorgeous 2.5K screen and really smooth performance. Bottom line: it feels great to draw on — and it punches way above its price. • Check it out at https://comiclabshop.com • Use code COMICLAB5 for an exclusive 5% discount! (Valid through June 14th) This week, Dave returns from Alaska Comics Camp — https://minicon.alaskarobotics.com/comics-camp/ — with a glowing review of what he calls one of the most meaningful experiences of his professional life. He explains how the camp blends education, community, mentorship, and artistic growth in a remote setting that forces attendees to disconnect from technology and reconnect with one another. Along the way, Brad and Dave discuss what makes the camp special, the value of peer-to-peer learning, the recent panic over Kickstarter's updated NSFW guidelines, Eisner nominations, and the realities of pursuing recognition in comics. Alaska Comics Camp Alaska Robotics Comics Camp is a four-night creative retreat in the southeast Alaska rainforest for comics pros, visual storytellers, and adjacent creators — writers, game devs, filmmakers, journalists, musicians, and more. You have to apply to attend. It's not a standard “buy a badge and show up” event; accepted campers attend after the Alaska Robotics Mini-Con in Juneau.  Cost: Camp is listed at $800, which includes four nights of lodging, meals, and transportation to/from downtown Juneau. Financial aid is available, and asking for aid does not affect application review.  What to expect: workshops, presentations, peer conversations, campfires, board games, hanging out, and wandering through the woods and nearby ocean beach — basically “a professional development conference for people who don't like conference rooms.”  Comfort level: rustic but not brutal — heated cabins, bunk beds with mattresses, flushing toilets, hot showers, power outlets, meals, snacks, coffee/tea, towels, and comfort items are provided. There's no regular Wi-Fi or cell service at camp, though service is reachable by hike or ride.  How to participate next year: watch the Alaska Robotics Mini-Con / Comics Camp site and their social channels for the next application window. Recent camps have used an application process with deadlines months ahead of the event, so don't wait until spring to start looking. https://minicon.alaskarobotics.com/comics-camp/ Topics Covered A complete tour of Alaska Comics Camp and how it evolved from a small Juneau event into an international gathering of cartoonists School visits, library presentations, the Alaska Robotics Mini-Con, and the camp experience itself Why the lack of cell service is one of the camp's greatest strengths Classes taught by attendees on topics including storytelling, lettering, humor writing, character development, publishing, and business An NSFW-comics discussion that impressed Brad with the camp's openness and professionalism The importance of "Comics Rules" (similar to Chatham House Rules) in creating a safe environment for sharing industry information Real-world discussions of publishing contracts, agents, income, and career sustainability The anonymous income survey that helps attendees understand the wide range of successful cartooning careers Why Alaska Comics Camp has become one of Dave's favorite events in all of comics Stories from ComicLab listeners who attended camp after hearing about it on the podcast Dave's observations about Alaska's landscape, culture, and strong sense of community The tale of a failed camp water pump and Pat Race's MacGyver-level solution involving a distillery, a fire department, and a garden hose The viral misinformation claiming Kickstarter had banned pornography What Kickstarter's updated NSFW guidelines actually said Why Stripe — not Kickstarter — is the real concern for adult-content creators Brad's emergency solo Pro Tips episode explaining the new guidelines How creators can avoid overreacting to social-media panic cycles Listener feedback about what Brad and Dave's voices sound like to non-Americans Congratulations to friends of the show, including Ryan North, Glenn Fleishman, Tony Cliff, and Steve Lieber, on their Eisner nominations A discussion about award submissions, advocacy, and why creators must nominate themselves The realities of comics awards, including Eisners, Ringo Awards, Hugos, Reubens, and Ignatz Awards Whether award nominations come from changing your work — or simply years of steady improvement and persistence You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

WEDNESDAY HR 2 RRR Trivia - Historians believe that this drink started in the 1904 Worlds Fair. What was it? King Of The Day Nick the Cruise King. We get the inside scoop on which rooms to get. Why balconys are the best. Drink ages back in the day.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ready to Break Free from the Sex Rules and Unleash Your True Desire? Get ready for a sizzling conversation with hosts Amy and April as they dive into the juicy details of their new book, Shameless Sex: Choose Your Own Pleasure Path to Unlock the Sex Life You've Been Waiting For. On this episode of the Shameless Sex podcast, they'll be exploring what it means to have shameless sex, sharing their philosophy, and serving up some seriously sexy insights to help you level up your love life. Here's a sneak peek at what you'll learn: * The 7 empowering principles of the Shameless Sex Philosophy that will help you shake off shame and guilt and start living your most authentic sex life * How to stop trying to fit into someone else's idea of "good sex" and start creating a pleasure path that's all your own * A tantalizing taste of their spiciest chapter, where they tackle a sizzling sex question all about pleasuring the pussy using their innovative "choose your own pleasure path" model * Why slowing down and being present is the key to unlocking a more fulfilling sex life, and how to start making that happen As the dynamic duo behind the Shameless Sex movement, Amy and April are on a mission to empower you to take ownership of your pleasure and unleash your inner sex superstar. By tuning in, you'll gain a deeper understanding of how to prioritize self-love, communication, and mutual respect in your intimate relationships. Plus, you'll get the inside scoop on how to get their book and access exclusive content, including a FREE online workshop on "How to Pamper Your Partner (For Great Sex)" when you purchase the book and email them your receipt! info@shamelesssex.com Want to take it to the next level? Get 15% off your book purchase with code shamelessssex at http://purepleasureshop.com. Come to our October 2026 Couple's retreats! Learn more and reserve your spot here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.shamelesssex.com/retreat⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Do you love us? Do you REALLY love us? Then order ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠our book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ now! Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠shamelesssex.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to snag your copy Support Shameless Sex by sending us gifts via our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Wish List⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on IG ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@shamelesssexpodcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other links: Uplevel your life and get at least 15% off any annual membership at http://masterclass.com/shameless Get 10% off + free shipping with code SHAMELESS on Uberlube AKA our favorite lubricant at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://uberlube.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get 15% off April's favorite vibrator - the Magic Wand Waterproof (and other sexy items) with code SHAMELESSSEX at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://purepleasureshop.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Cameron Hörst recently completed the hardest route of his climbing career: Big Bone (5.15a/9a+), a king line out Utah's massive Fynn Cave. What makes his first ascent especially compelling isn't just the grade—it's the journey. Big Bone was a project that demanded years of training, 60+ working goes and redpoint attempts, countless setbacks, and a level of patience few climbers ever develop. In this episode of the Training for Climbing Podcast, Cameron  unpacks the entire process. We dive into the physical, mental, and tactical challenges of working a multi-year project, the breakthroughs that finally moved the needle, and the lessons any climber can apply to their own long-term goals—whether you're projecting 5.10 or 5.15. One of the most fascinating takeaways is that the breakthrough wasn't a sudden gain in finger strength or power. Instead, it came from years of accumulated training adaptations, comprehensive energy system development, improved recovery, refined tactics, and learning when not to climb. Cameron shares how he finally broke through a plateau that had stalled his progress for multiple seasons. RUNDOWN 2:00 – What Does It Feel Like to Send a Multi-Year Project? 5:00 – Inside Utah's Incredible Fin Cave 7:00 – Anatomy of the "Big Bone" Project 9:50 – Why the Route is So Difficult 12:00 – Cameron's Three-Year Journey on the Route 13:50 – Breaking Through a Plateau 16:40 – Training Lessons from Big Bone 18:00 – Recovery: The Secret Weapon 21:00 – Sending on the Second Try 24:10 - Energy System Training and the benefits of becoming more fat adapted 26:00 – Mental Growth and Performance Psychology 28:30 - Discovery of Fin Cave 31:30 – The Evolution of "Bone Tomahawk" and "Big Bone" 32:00 – Friendship and Mentorship with Joe Kinder 34:20 – Balancing University, Life, and Elite Climbing 40:00 – The Importance of Partners and Community 44:00 - Debating 5.15a versus 5.15b -- how to grade a hard FA? 47:30 - Ultimately, the grade isn't important -- the journey is what counts! 48:10  – Coaching, Exercise Science, and Helping Others Follow and contact Cameron on Instagram @cam_horst Visit Cam's website at: www.CameronHorst.com 49:28 – What's Next? 51:05 – Eric's summarizes 8 Key Tips and Takeaways from this interview. 54:30 - Sponsor Discount:  Save 15% off full-priced PhysiVantage Nutrition with code: PODCAST15 (North America only) 56:00 -⭐ Enjoy the podcast? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and share this episode with a climbing partner! 56:40 - Hörst Out! Podcast Sponsors  Thank you to La Sportiva, PhysiVantage Nutrition, DMM Climbing, Blue Water Ropes! Save 10% off a new BlueWater Rope with checkout code: ERIC_CLINIC Save on  La Sportiva shoes here >> Save 15% off full-priced PhysiVantage Nutrition with code: PODCAST15 (North America only) European climbers, please get your PhysiVantage from the   EPIC-TV Shop or Oliunid.com. Mexican climbers visit PhysiVantage.mx Connect with Eric Hörst

The crew finally have the chance to sit down and discuss Operations, voicing their predictions, thoughts and concerns.Links“DISTANT WORLDS 3 – #15 – The End – speech and fireworks” by Lolof-gaming – https://youtu.be/Ij2o0hvciUU“Tech Demo – Virtual Motion Control” by Beaucoup Fish – https://youtu.be/gKk_0x3IhAo“Distant Worlds 360” by Beacoup Fish – https://youtu.be/opMlyPJ71dA“Project Icarus: Ship Interiors – June 2026 update” by Elite Dangereuse – https://youtu.be/VJ7JiTOnc00“Elite Dangerous Sci-Fi inspired ship computer | Elite Intel v1” by Sudo Krondor – https://youtu.be/QUfPQMGw2iE“What Elite Intel Can (and Can't) Do – Q&A + Pro Tips” by Sudo Krondor – https://youtu.be/IRy5xaDdpxwCmdr Captain Picard extends his five year mission to year eleven! – https://x.com/MissionFarsight/status/2061899755911774428“The Enclave Peace Agreement Is Official” statement from the Utopia Information Network – https://www.reddit.com/r/EliteAntal/comments/1ty2t7z/cycle_84_the_enclave_peace_agreement_is_official/

Should cartoonists hire a social-media manager? Brad and Dave discuss the pros and cons of outsourcing social media and ultimately argue that most creators should handle it themselves. They explain why social media is an extension of a creator's voice, how direct engagement provides invaluable feedback about audience-building and marketing, and why improving your promotional skills makes you a better cartoonist overall. Along the way, they discuss shyness, self-promotion, audience growth, and the dangers of trying to be everywhere at once online. Topics Covered • The ComicLab newsletter and the “Five to Grow On” feature • Whether cartoonists should hire a social-media manager • Why social media is part of a creator's artistic voice • The value of learning promotion instead of outsourcing it • Why creative people often resist marketing and business skills • How marketing skills can improve artistic skills • The dangers of trying to maintain every social-media platform at once • Brad's “2-2-1” approach to social media • Platform-specific posting strategies and why one-size-fits-all promotion fails • Social-media feedback as a tool for improving your work • Shyness and discomfort with self-promotion • The “lipstick on a pig” problem: when promotion can't compensate for weak work • Why making a great comic remains the most important marketing strategy • Dave's upcoming Reddit AMA and his Hugo Award nomination • Using award nominations as promotional opportunities • Hugo Awards promotional support versus other industry awards • BlueSky starter packs and audience growth • Why cartoonists should do more cross-promotion • Whether creators should put award nominations on book covers • How long to keep promoting a completed comic project • Managing inventory and promoting older books • Long-tail sales and evergreen products • Using older books as bonuses, stretch goals, and loss leaders • When it makes sense to retire promotional efforts • Whether different creative projects need separate Patreons, newsletters, Substacks, and social-media accounts • The benefits and drawbacks of splitting projects into separate brands • Cognitive load, burnout, and managing multiple audiences • Using separate platforms to measure the success of different projects • When creators should keep projects under one roof and when they should branch out You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

A routine extraction can quickly become a high-stakes situation when a root tip becomes displaced and slips out of view. In this episode of the Everyday Oral Surgery Podcast, Dr. Grant Stucki is joined by Dr. Jake Stucki to break down the technical challenges of managing displaced root tips. Drawing from real clinical scenarios, they walk through cases most likely to cause complications, like deeply impacted teeth or roots that are very close to the sinus. The conversation focuses on practical decision-making in the moment: how to recognize early warning signs, maintain control, and recover when things don't go as planned. They discuss step-by-step strategies for retrieval, includiM g using simple tools like suction or even finger pressure to reestablish resistance. They also explore when it's safer to stop and leave a root tip in place, weighing the risks of further damage against the likelihood of healing without complications. Listen in for an informative discussion on handling one of oral surgery's more stressful scenarios with confidence!Key Points From This Episode:Introducing Dr. Jake Stucki and today's focus on displaced root tips.Common scenarios that increase the risk of root tip fracture and displacement.Recognizing early signs that a root tip has fractured during elevation.Tips for avoiding fractures, including the use of careful elevation.Techniques for locating and retrieving extra-challenging displaced root tips.Risks of pushing roots deeper into lingual or soft tissue spaces.Strategies for managing tooth displacement into the sinus.When to escalate to a Caldwell-Luc approach for retrieval.Closure strategies to address a large sinus opening.When it is safer to leave a root tip rather than risk harm.Patient communication and follow-up when a root tip is retained.Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:Dr. Jake Stucki on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-stucki-ab19a593/Everyday Oral Surgery Website — https://www.everydayoralsurgery.com/ Everyday Oral Surgery on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/everydayoralsurgery/ Everyday Oral Surgery on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/EverydayOralSurgery/Dr. Grant Stucki Email — grantstucki@gmail.comDr. Grant Stucki Phone — 720-441-6059

With both Brad and Dave nominated for awards this year, the guys spiral into a surprisingly deep conversation about awards, marketing, ego, and whether creators should plaster “award nominee” stickers all over their books. Later, they tackle a listener question about using 3D models, digital sets, and reference material in comics production — leading to a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how both creators actually build comics pages in tools like Clip Studio Paint and Photoshop. Along the way, they discuss why imperfections matter in cartooning, how typography affects visual storytelling, and why “cheating” is often just another word for “working smarter.” Today's Show Should you put an award nomination on a book cover? UPDATE: Hugo Award voter packet "WSFS Membership"  Using sets and other pre-made background materials  UPDATE: Patreon Quips is now available on desktop You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

What if navigating your family through life's toughest moments felt clearer, calmer, and more manageable?In this episode of Life Of And, Tiffany sits down with Michelle Gambs to discuss how parents can show up for their kids even when life feels impossible. Hard seasons, like illness, loss, divorce, financial strain, or marital challenges, ripple through your home, shaping how children experience the world. Michelle offers practical guidance on balancing honesty and protection while helping kids process their emotions and maintain family stability.This conversation reminds us that children don't need perfect parents. They need parents who stay present, offer guidance, and model resilience. By navigating grief, anger, disappointment, and other intense emotions, both parents and kids can build emotional capacity together. Listeners will gain strategies for sharing difficult truths in age-appropriate ways, observing children without judgment, and providing the support networks kids need to thrive even when parents are overwhelmed.What You'll Learn:How to parent authentically in seasons of grief, loss, and uncertaintyWhy children need support from multiple adults, not just parentsHow to help kids build emotional intelligence by observing and validating their feelingsLove Michelle? So do we. Here's every episode she's been on — start anywhere or binge them all:The #1 Way to Bring Peace to Your Home (Ep. 165): Guilt-free parenting, raising capable kids, and why forbidden = attractive. No Such Thing as Perfect Parenting (Ep. 203): Why the goal isn't perfection — it's continuous improvement. A must-listen if you're balancing a career, a business, and a busy household.Pro Tips on Managing Chores in Your Home (Ep. 210): The art and science of age-appropriate chore systems, natural consequences, and how to handle allowance without directly tying it to tasks. For more from Michelle, check out these links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-gambs-710437176 Website: https://www.michellegambs.com/ And if you want more from Michelle, her book Stay Away from Option D...and You Will Be a Perfect Parent: A Simple Philosophy for Parenting. A Simple Philosophy for Life is on Amazon, and her courses and workshops are at michellegambs.com. Online Workshops: https://www.michellegambs.com/onlineworkshops Redirecting Children's Behavior 4-Week Course: https://www.michellegambs.com/online-courseFor more from Tiffany:Follow Tiffany on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiffany.sauderLearn More: https://www.tiffanysauder.com Ready to build your own Life of And? Explore the program: https://www.tiffanysauder.com/ProgramTimestamps:(00:00) Intro(02:09) Sharing hard truths before full resolution(05:05) Shifting from protecting to preparing kids(08:45) Why age appropriate honesty supports understanding(11:09) Rebuilding stability after revealing difficult truths(13:47) You suffer well with support networks(15:56) Stop pity, build emotional capacity(22:20) Stages of grief and finding meaning(25:54) How grief progresses differently for each person(27:10) Why kids act out feelings while processing(31:09) Observe your kids to name their needs(36:14) Why teens ask less focused questions(45:34) Closing reflections on parenting hard seasonsCheck out the apps and sponsor of this episode: Created in partnership with Share Your Genius Learn more about First Internet Bank: https://www.tiffanysauder.com/First-Internet-Bank

The newspaper comic strip didn't go extinct — it evolved. But if your work doesn't keep up, your career may be fossilized! From Reddit-ready square comics to vertical-scroll storytelling, they explore how creators are adapting to phones, social media, and changing reading habits while keeping the heart of the comic strip alive. Topics covered The evolution of newspaper comic strips Why horizontal strips existed in the first place How phones changed comics formatting Square-format comics on Reddit and social media Vertical-scroll storytelling Why readers won't rotate their phones Charles Schulz and the flexible-format origins of Peanuts Newspaper syndication vs. modern web distribution YA graphic novels as the next evolution for newspaper strips Lincoln Peirce and the success of Big Nate books Why comic strips are still thriving online Modular comic formatting for webcomics The launch of The Comic Scout  Dave Kellett's Hugo Award nomination anticipation Tips for maintaining visual consistency in comics Workflow advice for newer cartoonists   You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Today's show is sponsored by Huion, makers of the Huion Kamvas 22 (Gen 3) — a 21.5" pen display with a gorgeous 2.5K screen and really smooth performance. Bottom line: it feels great to draw on — and it punches way above its price. • Check it out at https://comiclabshop.com • Use code COMICLAB5 for an exclusive 5% discount! (Valid through June 14th) Brad and Dave tackle a listener question that gets to the heart of creative careers: Can you make a living telling shorter stories, or does success demand long-form work? As always, the answer is equal parts practical advice and creative philosophy — grounded in real-world experience and delivered with ComicLab's signature mix of humor and honesty. TODAY'S SHOW • Can you build a career on individual short stories? • Market expectations around story length (comics, film, TV) and perceived value • Creative problem-solving as a business tool — making unconventional formats work • Strategies for packaging short stories (genre consistency, shared setting, through-lines) • Examples of experimental storytelling formats (anthologies, vignette structures) • PROMO: Huion Kamvas 22 (Gen 3) — features, workflow integration, and discount code ComicLab5 at https://comiclabshop.com • Estate planning for cartoonists — what happens to your IP after death? • Debate: Should creative work become public domain sooner? • Should kids continue your comic… or make their own work? • The reality of legacy comics vs. modern independent publishing You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

David Sidoni breaks down the biggest mortgage myths, lending traps, and loan questions confusing first-time homebuyers in today's housing market.The mortgage process can feel overwhelming when every lender, website, and social media post seems to give different advice. In this episode, David Sidoni explains why first-time buyers should stop chasing the lowest advertised interest rate and start looking for a true mortgage advisor who can guide their long-term strategy. He also exposes how large online lenders and real estate platforms are relying more heavily on automation and AI-driven systems instead of personalized service for buyers who need education the most. Throughout the episode, listeners learn how to avoid common lending mistakes, understand key mortgage concepts, and build a smarter plan to buy a home with confidence. “You want to shop for a mortgage advisor, a planner, a guide.” — David Sidoni, First Time Homebuyer CoachHighlightsWhat are the biggest mortgage myths hurting first-time homebuyers right now?Why can chasing the lowest mortgage rate actually cost buyers more long term?How are AI-driven lenders and online mortgage systems failing first-time buyers?What should buyers look for in a mortgage advisor before starting the homebuying process?Referenced Episodes364 - Buying a Home in High Mortgage Interest Rate Markets - 2025 Update402 - How to Buy a Home - Step 2: Realtors & Lenders (Choosing Your Guides)403 - How to Buy a Home - Step 3: Improving Your Credit Score (16 Pro Tips)339 - Don't Get Pre-Qualified-Get a Plan (INTERVIEW)340 – Down Payment Assistance, Discovery Calls & Lending Myths (INTERVIEW)11 – Should A First Time Home Buyer Use A National Internet Lender Instead Of A Local?16 – How To Get A Loan When Looking To Buy Your First Home with Dino Katsiametis443 - First Time Homebuyer FAQ: What Can I Actually Afford in 2026?426 - Lowering Your Down Payment – Financially Prepare to Buy Your First Home – Pt. 7480 - How to Buy a Home Explained in Under 20 Minutes (First Time Home Buyers)474 - WARNING: “Step by Step” Lists for First Time Homebuyers – Can You Trust Them? (Zillow, Best Money, NerdWallet…etc.)454 - First Time Homebuyer Lending Options 2026: How to Find the Best Deal when Shopping for a Mortgage (Interview)349 - Credit Score Solutions for First-Time Buyers (INTERVIEW)346 - How to Build the Perfect Mortgage Plan (Before You Apply)345 – Why You're Asking the WRONG Question About Interest Rates261 - How to Shop for the Best Mortgage Rate66 - How To Shop For The BEST Mortgage Interest Rate On Your Home Loan236 - Interview with First Time Home Buyer Navigating High Interest Rates + (mini) 2024 Housing Market Update!192 - Google Sucks: Financial Basics You Should Know180 - Online Mortgage Calculators Are GARBAGE - Here's Why153 – Buying Your First Home Right Out Of College - And A Special Announcement32 – Interview With VA Loan Specialist Chris Griffith With Tips For Vets, As Well As All First-Time Home BuyersCheck out our updated 2026 First Time Homebuyer's Episode Guide - Over 100 of our BEST Episodes of Detailed Homebuying Knowledge, Interviews, and MORE! Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable tips, and inspiring stories from real first-time homebuyers. With a focus on making the home-buying process accessible and understandable, David breaks down complex topics into easy

56 fast-moving insider tips that challenge common homebuying myths and help first-time buyers understand what actually matters when preparing to buy a home.Most first-time buyers think they need perfect credit, zero debt, and 20% down before they can even start thinking about buying a home. In this episode, David Sidoni delivers 56 rapid-fire insider tips designed to replace fear and misinformation with practical guidance and real-world examples. The episode covers credit scores, down payment assistance, savings strategies, debt myths, and the hidden mistakes that keep renters stuck waiting too long to start planning. Listeners also hear real buyer success stories that prove many first-time buyers have far more options available than they realize. “Trying to research everything on your own before you start your planning, that's going to keep you renting until you're 72 years old.” — David Sidoni, First Time Homebuyer CoachHighlightsWhat credit score actually matters when applying for a mortgage with a partner?Why do so many buyers still wrongly believe they need 20% down?How did one buyer save an extra $6,000 in just 90 days without increasing income?What kinds of down payment assistance programs could dramatically lower your upfront costs?Referenced Episodes477- First Time Homebuyer Triangle of Success (Getting the most out of buying a home)239 - INTERVIEW: Using the VA Loan for Zero Down, and Monthly Payment is Only $100 More a Month426 - Lowering Your Down Payment – Financially Prepare to Buy Your First Home – Pt. 7424 - First Time Home Buyers: Chloe & Eduardo Close on a Home (INTERVIEW)425 - First Time Home Buyer: How a Single Mom Bought with a ZERO Down Payment USDA Loan (INTERVIEW)464 - This ONE Myth is Killing First Time Homebuyers in 2026423 - Using Your 401(k) - Financially Prepare to Buy Your First Home - Pt. 6403 - How to Buy a Home - Step 3: Improving Your Credit Score (16 Pro Tips)438 - How Much Are Closing Costs? First Time Homebuyer FAQ194 - Interview - Making the Impossible Purchase Possible300- 300th EPISODE! What Can You Afford? Homebuyer Consultation Breakdown399 - The Real Value of Buying: What Nick Gained Beyond a Mortgage414 - First Time Homebuyers: Buying Without Feeling House Poor (INTERVIEW)412 - Breaking Your Lease (Is It Necessary?)468 - Scouting Home Listings Like a Pro - First Time Homebuyers Guide (2026)457 - First Time Homebuyers: Buy or Wait in 2026? (March Housing Market Update)460 - Rent vs Buy in 2026: Are First Time Homebuyers Crazy?Check out our updated 2026 First Time Homebuyer's Episode Guide - Over 100 of our BEST Episodes of Detailed Homebuying Knowledge, Interviews, and MORE! Connect with me to find a trusted realtor in your area or to answer your burning questions!Subscribe to our YouTube Channel @HowToBuyaHomeInstagram @HowtoBuyAHomePodcastTik Tok @HowToBuyAHomeVisit our Resource Center to "Ask David" AND get your FREE Home Buying Starter Kit!David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable tips, and inspiring stories from real first-time homebuyers. With a focus on making the home-buying process accessible and understandable, David breaks down complex topics into easy-to-follow steps, covering everything from budgeting and financing to finding the right home and making an offer. Subscribe for regular market updates, and leave a review to help us reach more people. Ready for an honest, informed home-buying experience? Viva la Unicorn Revolution - join us!