Toys & Tech of the Trade

Guest: Rich Butler, Founder—RAGE Works Podcast Network

Originally aired on: Podcast Network Insights with Greg Wasserman

Listen to the original: https://rss.com/podcasts/podcast-network-insights/2751235/

What happens when a podcast network stops chasing CPMs and starts asking a different question: how do we help creators actually stick around?

Rich Butler has been running the RAGE Works Podcast Network since 2014, 12 years without changing the core model. In this conversation with Greg Wasserman, Rich walks through the architecture of a network built on a shared aggregation feed, friction removal, and a revenue split that puts the creator's independence first.

If you're a podcaster evaluating networks or a creator building your own, this episode is a practical look at what support from a network can actually mean.

• Network founded: 2014—12 years running
• Longest-running show: Turnbuckle Tabloid—525+ episodes
• Hosting platform: Captivate FM
• Revenue model: 80/20 split (network-sourced ads only)

0:00 — The jockey and the horse

Why talent matters more than gear and the analogy that frames everything.

3:08 — What a podcast network actually is

Rich's definition: a one-stop shop for discoverability, cross-pollination, and variety.

4:37 — How RAGE Works started

From a 400-episode run on Blog Talk Radio to building a network for the people who caught the podcast bug.

7:41 — The network feed model explained

Why running a shared aggregation feed helps new shows build an audience before their individual feed even goes live.

10:01 — Revenue without chasing ad sales

How the network makes money and why creator-sourced sponsorships get zero cut.

16:09 — Red flags when evaluating a network

The first question to ask isn't "how will you grow my show?" It's "how are you growing the network?"

19:11 — What Rich actually does as a network operator

Removing friction: RSS setup, editing, distribution, mic technique feedback, and platform reporting.

23:29 — Audio vs. video in 2026

Why audio comes first, how video complements it, and why the "us vs. them" framing is wrong.

27:48 — Onboarding new shows

The discoverability call, the gear list, the Google Drive workflow, and how real onboarding actually works.

33:43 — The long game and the ROI reframe

Why Rich defines ROI as "return on interest" and what Gary Vaynerchuk said on stage that nearly ended the network.

39:41 — Book recommendations

Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook, and The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* — two books every podcaster should read.

45:21 — Final thought: just create the thing

26 years in, Rich's parting message for anyone still waiting to start.

1. A shared network feed isn't just a distribution trick, it's a litmus test for new shows and a built-in audience-building tool before a podcast's individual feed even goes live.
2. Most networks fail creators by leading with ad sales. Removing friction (RSS, editing, submission, platform reporting) is the actual service.
3. If a creator sources their own sponsor, the network takes nothing. That's a deliberate choice, not a gap in the model.
4. Audio first, always. Good audio teaches storytelling through inflection. Video amplifies what's already there; it doesn't replace it.
5. Consistency is the real filter. If a network has to chase you for your episode, the show is already in trouble.
6. Download counts aren't the metric. Ten loyal listeners in a room look very different when you're standing in front of them.

• RAGE Works Podcast Network — rageworks.net
• Press Record Studios — http://www.pressrecordstudios.com
• Captivate FM — Podcast hosting platform used by the network
• Riverside.fm — Remote recording platform used in this episode
• Original Episode — Podcast Network Insights — https://rss.com/podcasts/podcast-network-insights/2751235/
• Book: Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook — Gary Vaynerchuk
• Book: The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck — Mark Manson
• Podcast: The Jay Ferruggia Podcast (formerly Renegade Radio)
• Podcast: Morning Chat with Mark Ronick

Toys & Tech of the Trade is slowly getting things back to normal with consistency at the forefront. It is only fitting that Rich sit down with a true embodiment of consistency and discipline in Taekwondo Master Joseph Lupo Jr. Master Joe is the owner of the New York Black Center in Queens, NY and is also the host of A Black Belt Way of Life podcast.

In Rich’s conversation with Master Joe, we learn about Joe’s deep-rooted connection to martial arts through his father and how it shaped his path as an entrepreneur. Joseph shares insights on the challenges and triumphs of running his own martial arts school, the importance of blending tradition with modern techniques, and the community's key role in his business philosophy. From navigating the early days of opening his school to overcoming obstacles like the COVID-19 pandemic, Joseph's journey is a testament to resilience and empowerment. Listen in as he imparts valuable lessons on growth, perseverance, and maintaining the quality of one's craft, making this episode a must-listen for aspiring martial artists and entrepreneurs alike.

Toys & Tech of the Trade is a Press Record Studios production. Learn more about Press Record Studios at http://www.pressrecordstudios.com

Update: Our our good friend James Lopez continues to improve daily and remains in our thoughts. 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.

This episode was a more story-driven conversation, so Rich did not dig too deep into the usual toys & tech of the trade items

Guest Links

• NY Blackbelt Center:

https://nybbc.org/

Subscribe to the New York Black Belt Center YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRk9IlttzWlGyA6fHjHOmRA

• A Blackbelt Way of Life:

YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/@blackbeltwayoflife

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP?si=9332a5ddfcf1451e

Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9d314fb1-51bb-4232-b3ab-60247520f343/a-black-belt-way-of-life

Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-black-belt-way-of-life/id1769633501

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565583651797

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

Keep up with RAGE Works

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

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAGEWorks

• 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

After a lengthy hiatus, Toys & Tech of the Trade is back! What has been happening with the podcast and RAGE Works, and what’s Rich been up to? All that gets answered in this week’s episode, plus we get some insights into Toys & Tech of the Trade, will change to give you more value in every podcast.

Update: It has been well 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.

• Learn more about Press Record Studios: http://www.pressrecordstudios.com

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

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.