Toys & Tech of the Trade

Toys & Tech of the Trade x Play Big Faster

While Toys & Tech of the Trade is on hiatus, Rich is still making the podcast rounds. He stopped by the Play Big Faster Podcast to discuss podcasting and much more. Here is the full episode description straight from the host, Scherrie Prince.

Have you ever dreamed of starting your own podcast but are worried about the time commitment or the pressure to turn a quick profit? This episode of the Play Big Fadter Podcast is for you! We chat with podcasting veteran Richard Butler, who shares his 15-year journey from enthusiastic listener to host of his own show, "My Take Radio." Richard dives deep into the challenges and rewards of podcasting, debunking myths about instant riches and emphasizing the importance of passion and serving your audience. Learn how Richard overcame burnout, shifted his focus to helping others, and now runs a successful podcast network that empowers creators to share their voices. Whether you're a seasoned podcaster or a curious newcomer, this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips to guide you on your podcasting adventure. Love this episode and want to hear more like it? Support the show by leaving a review on your podcast player - your feedback helps us grow and find new listeners!

Want to check out the Play Big Faster Podcast? Here here: https://apple.co/3A8JAjr

Update: It has been over a year since our good friend James Lopez was hospitalized, and he continues to improve daily. Learn more about James' story here: https://bit.ly/3A8qbgM, and feel free to donate, visit, and share this GoFundMe link: https://gofund.me/da7a5f33

This week's episode of Toys & Tech of the Trade was a far departure from our usual episodes as Rich is joined by Corey Gumbs from the Black Podcasters Association and Matt Kaplowitz from Nerd News Today and Trek Untold for a roundtable discussion on content creation, podcast standards, and practices and workflows. We recorded this podcast on location at The Landing At 251, a co-working space in Westbury, NY.

Update: It has been over a year since our good friend James Lopez was hospitalized, and he continues to improve daily. Learn more about James' story here: https://bit.ly/3A8qbgM, and feel free to donate, visit, and share this GoFundMe link: https://gofund.me/da7a5f33

Toys, Tech, Awesome People, Stuff, and Services Mentioned in This Episode

Disclaimer: Some of these links are affiliate links, which means that if you click and make a purchase via the link, RAGE Works will receive a small commission.

• If you are struggling, stressed out, and need a neutral party to talk to, give BetterHelp a try: https://www.betterhelp.com/ (non-affiliate)
• The Landing At 251: https://www.thelanding251.com/

Guest Links

• Black Podcasters Association: https://www.blackpodcastersassociation.com/
• Nerd News Today: https://www.nerdnewstoday.com
• Trek Untold: https://www.rageworksnetwork.com/show/trek-untold/

Keep up with RAGE Works

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworks/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAGE_Works
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialRAGEWorks/
• Subscribe to the RAGE Works Newsletter: https://sendfox.com/rageworks

Keep up with the RAGE Works Podcast Network

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworkspodcastnetwork
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/rageworksnet

We're back! Rich fires up the mics and shares the latest RAGE Works and Toys & Tech of the Trade updates, including the recent event Rich organized alongside Corey Gumbs from the Black Podcasters Association and Lee Uehara from NYC Podcasters and AAP. This was the first podcast event for the Queens area, and Rich had lots to say about how the event came together and the lessons he learned from the whole process. If you're on the fence about events, whether as an attendee or organizer, this episode should help you look at them differently.

Update: It has been over a year since our good friend James Lopez was hospitalized, and he continues to improve daily. Learn more about James' story here: https://bit.ly/3A8qbgM, and feel free to donate, visit, and share this GoFundMe link: https://gofund.me/da7a5f33

Toys, Tech, Awesome People, Stuff, and Services Mentioned in This Episode

Disclaimer: Some of these links are affiliate links, which means that if you click and make a purchase via the link, RAGE Works will receive a small commission.

• If you are struggling, stressed out, and need a neutral party to talk to, give BetterHelp a try: https://www.betterhelp.com/ (non-affiliate)
• Black Podcasters Association: https://www.blackpodcastersassociation.com/
• Asian American Podcasters Association: https://www.aapodcasters.org/
• Spotlight Podcasting: https://spotlightpodcasting.com/
• GFQ Network: https://gfqnetwork.com/

Guest Links

• No guests this week.

Keep up with RAGE Works

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworks/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAGE_Works
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialRAGEWorks/
• Subscribe to the RAGE Works Newsletter: https://sendfox.com/rageworks

Keep up with the RAGE Works Podcast Network

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworkspodcastnetwork
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/rageworksnet

So what's been going on with Rich, Toys & Tech of the Trade, and RAGE Works? This quick episode answers those questions and updates fans and listeners on what comes next. It was an emotional conversation that hopefully will help others in similar circumstances.

Update: James Lopez is finally home and continues to be a force and inspiration for dads everywhere, even in recovery, but he still has a long road to recovery and needs our help. Learn more about James' story here: https://bit.ly/3A8qbgM, and feel free to donate, visit and share this Go Fund Me link: https://gofund.me/da7a5f33

Toys, Tech, Awesome People, Stuff, and Services Mentioned in This Episode

Disclaimer: Some of these links are affiliate links, which means that if you click and make a purchase via the link, RAGE Works will receive a small commission.

• If you are struggling and need a neutral party to talk to, give Betterhelp a try: https://www.betterhelp.com/

Guest Links

• No guests this week.

Keep up with RAGE Works

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworks/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAGE_Works
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialRAGEWorks/
• Subscribe to the RAGE Works Newsletter: https://sendfox.com/rageworks

Keep up with the RAGE Works Podcast Network

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworkspodcastnetwork
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/rageworksnet

Unlocking the Toys and Tech of Jason Skeesick's Trade: From Soldier to Entrepreneurial Evangelist

After a long hiatus, Toys & Tech of the Trade is back, and this week's guest is a man of many talents. Jason Skeesick is a former soldier, content creator, coach, father, and podcaster. He is known for his diverse background, discipline, and self-awareness.

“You have to have accountability to the mission that you're on; whether that's in the military, whether that's in school, whether that's in a corporate environment or your own business, you have to hold yourself accountable to your constituents, right?” – Jason Skeesick

In this episode, you will learn the following:

1. Exploring the Life-Changing Effects of the Military: Discover how the disciplined lifestyle, mission-focused mentality, and team camaraderie of the military impacted Jason Skeesick's life.

2. Following Your Passions: Learn how Jason Skeesick turned his passions into businesses, from snowboarding to poker, and why he became an entrepreneur.

3. Taking Accountability for Your Impact: Understand the importance of accountability and how it can help individuals scale up their impact on the world.

Update: Fatherhood Is Lit's James Lopez still has a long road to recovery and needs our help. Learn more about James' story here: https://bit.ly/3A8qbgM, and feel free to donate, visit and share this Go Fund Me link: https://gofund.me/da7a5f33

Toys, Tech, Awesome People, Stuff, and Services Mentioned in This Episode

Disclaimer: Some of these links are affiliate links which means that if you click and make a purchase via the link, RAGE Works will receive a small commission

• Simon: https://amzn.to/42q505B
• Essentialism: https://amzn.to/3LyFcy8
• Never Split The Difference by Chris Voss: https://amzn.to/3TxTzoo
• Gary Vee $1.80 Strategy: https://garyvaynerchuk.com/instagram-for-business-180-strategy-grow-business-brand/
• Jay Leno's Garage: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQMELFlXQL38KPm8kM-4Adg

Guest Links

• Check out the Spear & Clover Podcast: https://www.spearandclover.com/podcast
• Check out the Spear & Clover website: https://www.spearandclover.com/
• Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-skeesick-8959722a/
• Follow the Spear & Clover podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spear-and-clover-podcast/

Keep up with RAGE Works

Follow RAGE Works on:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworks/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAGE_Works

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialRAGEWorks/

Subscribe to the RAGE Works Newsletter: https://sendfox.com/rageworks

Keep up with the RAGE Works Podcast Network

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworkspodcastnetwork

Twitter: https://twitter.com/rageworksnet

The views expressed on air during Toys & Tech of the Trade do not represent the views of the RAGE Works staff, partners, or affiliates. Listener discretion is advised.

2022 Toys & Tech of the Trade Holiday Gift Guide

The holidays are upon us, so it is time for the Toys & Tech of the Trade 2022 holiday gift guide. This year is a bit different, and Rich has tons of recommendations that will surely be a hit for the entrepreneur or creatives in your life unless you want to treat yourself, which is never wrong.

Update 1: James Lopez is finally home as of August 2022, but he still has a long road to recovery and needs our help. Learn more about James' story here: https://bit.ly/3A8qbgM, and feel free to donate, visit and share this Go Fund Me link: https://gofund.me/da7a5f33

Toys, Tech, Awesome People, Stuff, and Services Mentioned in This Episode

Disclaimer: Some of these links are affiliate links, which means that if you click and make a purchase via the link, RAGE Works will receive a small commission.

• Dot Card: https://dotcards.net/
• Husky Tool Bench: https://fave.co/3PzZPtN
• Alex Desk Wheels: https://amzn.to/3WuHznG
• Harbor Freight Magnetic Powerstrip: https://bit.ly/3YvHgLb
• Samson Q2U: https://amzn.to/3hBDAa9
• Shure MV7: https://amzn.to/3jcRCj9
• Shure MV7X (XLR): https://amzn.to/3hv3sVn
• Rode PodMic: https://fave.co/3BMXxlb
• Logitech C920: https://amzn.to/3VaAsj8
• Elgato Face Cam: https://amzn.to/3V9vNhJ
• Elgato Face Cam Pro: https://fave.co/3W6UKeY
• Elgato Cam Link 4K: https://amzn.to/3WvH7p8
• Sony ZV-E10: https://amzn.to/3Pz5IHH
• Sigma 16mm Lens for Sony E-Mount: https://amzn.to/3jfXQ1G
• Wyze Bulbs: https://amzn.to/3V9Zhfl
• Descript: https://www.descript.com/
• Capcut:https://www.capcut.com/
• Lumafusion: https://luma-touch.com/lumafusion-for-ios-2/
• Riverside.FM: https://riverside.fm/
• Shell Portable Battery Bank: https://amzn.to/3WasOXo
• Switchpod: https://amzn.to/3HHkLNv
• Mantis Pod: https://amzn.to/3jcBRsu
• Koopla Wall Lights: https://amzn.to/3BGKGAT
• Wyze Scale: https://amzn.to/3Wnag5S
• Walking Pad/Under Desk Treadmill: https://amzn.to/3YvTzqV or https://amzn.to/3WqSNtl

Guest Links

• No guest this week

Keep up with RAGE Works

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworks/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAGE_Works
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialRAGEWorks/
• Subscribe to the RAGE Works Newsletter: https://sendfox.com/rageworks

Keep up with the RAGE Works Podcast Network

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworkspodcastnetwork
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/rageworksnet

In a world where profits come before people, Matthew Stibbe strives to be different and lead differently. His conversation with Rich not only touched on his fantastic resume in the gaming and later tech industry and how both of those paths led him to where he is today as CEO of Articulate Marketing. But, of course, it wouldn't be an amazing story without some toys and tech that came along for the ride.

Update 1: James Lopez is finally home as of August 2022, but he still has a long road to recovery and needs our help. Learn more about James' story here: https://bit.ly/3A8qbgM, and feel free to donate, visit and share this Go Fund Me link: https://gofund.me/da7a5f33

Toys, Tech, Awesome People, Stuff, and Services Mentioned in This Episode

Disclaimer: Some of these links are affiliate links, which means that if you click and make a purchase via the link, RAGE Works will receive a small commission.

• The Macintosh Way by Guy Kawasaki: https://amzn.to/3UR1PPN
• Duolingo: https://www.duolingo.com/
• Todoist: https://todoist.com/
• Zapier: https://zapier.com/
• Notion: https://www.notion.so/
• New Yorker: https://www.newyorker.com/
• HMS Warspite: https://amzn.to/3USv7gV
• Endeavor: https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/33160/endeavor
• Dark Room: https://adarkroom.doublespeakgames.com/
• Strategic Command: https://store.steampowered.com/app/957720/Strategic_Command_WWII_World_at_War/
• Microsoft Flight Simulator: https://www.flightsimulator.com/
• Hardcore History Podcast: https://www.dancarlin.com/hardcore-history-series/
• The History Of World War II: https://worldwariipodcast.net/

Guest Links

• Connect with Matthew on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewstibbe/

Keep up with RAGE Works

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworks/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAGE_Works
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialRAGEWorks/
• Subscribe to the RAGE Works Newsletter: https://sendfox.com/rageworks

Keep up with the RAGE Works Podcast Network

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworkspodcastnetwork
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/rageworksnet

The views expressed on air during Toys & Tech of the Trade do not represent the views of the RAGE Works staff, partners, or affiliates. Listener discretion is advised.

Getting Schooled By Austin Bellino

Fellow Underdogs group member Austin Bellino joins Rich for this week's Toys & Tech of the Trade. Austin is not only a fellow podcaster but a world citizen, thanks to his teaching work. Rich and Austin discuss his origin story and how his journey to be a pro baseball player evolved into becoming a teacher. We also dig into his work on the podcast Culture to Grow and how he stays motivated as both a teacher and a creator.

Update 1: Rich will be speaking at a local podcasting conference in NYC on October 9th. If you are interested in attending, you can head here for tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/podfest-meetup-tour-nyc-podcasters-2nd-annual-mini-con-tickets-421760606327?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Promo Code: PODNYC15

Update 2: James Lopez is finally home as of August 2022, but he still has a long road to recovery and needs our help. Learn more about James' story here: https://bit.ly/3A8qbgM, and feel free to donate, visit and share this Go Fund Me link: https://gofund.me/da7a5f33

Toys, Tech, Awesome People, Stuff, and Services Mentioned in This Episode

Disclaimer: Some of these links are affiliate links, which means that if you click and make a purchase via the link, RAGE Works will receive a small commission.

• Microsoft Word: https://www.microsoft.com/en-ww/microsoft-365/word
• MacBook Air: https://amzn.to/3M0IY1q
• Hello Talk: https://www.hellotalk.com/?lang=en
• Percolator: https://amzn.to/3SPGO71
• Five Minute Journal: https://amzn.to/3RAmOEl
• The 7 Habits Of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey: https://amzn.to/3SR1H1I
• Rings Of Power: https://amzn.to/3BZIaFo
• Micro Machines: https://amzn.to/3EbH1xh
• Lego Globe: https://amzn.to/3RAmWUl
• Noah Kagan Presents: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/noah-kagan-presents/id1187402810

Guest Links

• Connect with Austin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austinbellino/
• Check out the Culture to Grow podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1912269
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Keep up with RAGE Works

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworks/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAGE_Works
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialRAGEWorks/
• Subscribe to the RAGE Works Newsletter: https://sendfox.com/rageworks

Keep up with the RAGE Works Podcast Network

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworkspodcastnetwork
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/rageworksnet

Rich recently stopped by the Stuck In My Mind Podcast and had a great conversation with Wil, aka Wize, the show's host. The conversation went so well that Rich wanted to introduce Wize and his work to the Toys & Tech of the Trade audience. Wize truly is a podcasting natural, and there was plenty of podcasting talk and advice for folks looking to get into the podcasting space, plus a bit inside baseball New York talk. Wize is a prime example of a podcasting success story, and the crazy thing is he's been in the space since 2019 but has the energy and presence of someone who has been podcasting for far longer.

Thanks, as always, to the fine folks at PodMatch for putting Rich on Wize's radar. Learn more about how PodMatch can help you find your next great podcast guest here: https://podmatch.com/

Update: James Lopez is finally home as of August 2022, but he still has a long road to recovery and needs our help. Learn more about James' story here: https://bit.ly/3A8qbgM, and feel free to donate, visit and share this Go Fund Me link: https://gofund.me/da7a5f33

Toys, Tech, Awesome People, Stuff, and Services Mentioned in This Episode

Disclaimer: Some of these links are affiliate links, which means that if you click and make a purchase via the link, RAGE Works will receive a small commission.

• Behringer mixer: https://amzn.to/3xznqmy
• Rodecaster Pro: https://amzn.to/3qNimXT
• Audacity: https://www.audacityteam.org/
• Reaper: https://www.reaper.fm/
• Hindenburg Journalist: https://hindenburg.com/
• Canva: https://www.canva.com/
• Retro Bowl: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.newstargames.retrobowl&hl=en_US&gl=US
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/
• Sean Cannell (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/THiNKmediaTV
• ThinkMedia: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGxjDWAN1KwrkXYVi8CXtjQ
• YouTube Secrets by Sean Cannell & Benji Travis: https://amzn.to/3QUjaog

Guest Links

• Connect with Wize on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wil-wize-otero-b8291bb2/
• Connect with Wize on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/wize_b_blunt
• Connect with Wize on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wize_el_jefe/
• Check out Wize on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/StuckInMyMindPodcast
• Check out the Stuck In My Mind Podcast: https://www.stuckinmymind2020.com/

Keep up with RAGE Works

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworks/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAGE_Works
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialRAGEWorks/
• Subscribe to the RAGE Works Newsletter: https://sendfox.com/rageworks

Keep up with the RAGE Works Podcast Network

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworkspodcastnetwork
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/rageworksnet

This post-Labor Day edition of Toys & Tech of the Trade Rich welcomes Sarah LaValle, owner of Simple Sweet Sites, to the show. Sarah is a web designer and content creator who creates unique white-label websites on the Wix platform. Rich and Sarah discussed her origins, how she went from talented viola player to web designer and entrepreneur, and how that journey shaped her current career path. Suppose you are looking to make that pivot and jump into entrepreneurship. In that case, Sarah's story will have plenty of actionable advice to help make that possible, and if you need a website for that next chapter, then Sarah is someone you'll want to know.

Learn about Long Island Networkers here: https://www.longislandnetworkers.com/contact

Update: James Lopez is on the mend and was moved to a rehabilitation facility, but he still has a long road to recovery and needs our help. Learn more about James' story here: https://bit.ly/3A8qbgM, and feel free to donate, visit and share this Go Fund Me link: https://gofund.me/da7a5f33

Toys, Tech, Awesome People, Stuff, and Services Mentioned in This Episode

Disclaimer: Some of these links are affiliate links, which means that if you click and make a purchase via the link, RAGE Works will receive a small commission.

• Microsoft One Note: https://www.onenote.com/
• iMac: https://bhpho.to/3RvrhbQ
• iPad: https://bhpho.to/3KRKn9L
• Canva: https://www.canva.com/
• Audible: https://www.audible.com/
• Rich Dad, Poor Dad:https://amzn.to/3cNNzGX
• Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert: https://amzn.to/3eqV7QD
• Salesforce: https://www.salesforce.com/

Guest Links

• Check out Sarah's website: https://www.simplesweetsites.com/
• Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-lavalle/
• Connect with Sarah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplesweetsites

Keep up with RAGE Works

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworks/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAGE_Works
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialRAGEWorks/
• Subscribe to the RAGE Works Newsletter: https://sendfox.com/rageworks

Keep up with the RAGE Works Podcast Network

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworkspodcastnetwork
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/rageworksnet

The views expressed on air during Toys & Tech of the Trade do not represent the views of the RAGE Works staff, partners, or affiliates. Listener discretion is advised.