Podcast
The Trading Post
Hosted by Trader Stu · EN
Welcome to, "The Trading Post": Barter Business Insights, the podcast where we dive into the fascinating world of B2B trading and networking.
This podcast is organized by seasons.
Season 1: Trade Education & Member Spotlights
Season 2: Networking that nets business
Season 3: Using A Podcast For Marketing (my experience with it)
Disclaimer:
The thoughts and views expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and do not reflect the official policy or position of Metro Trading Association. Although the host is an employee of Metro Trading, this podcast is intended to educate entrepreneurs on the benefits of professional trading, regardless of their location. Additionally, the host reviews various pieces of camping gear due to the association of trade, barter, and prepping.
“Whistles In The West” was written, recorded, and produced by Durracell, exclusively for use with Trader Stu’s platform.
This original jingle is a Western/Cowboy-inspired piece, reflecting Trader Stu’s signature style—always rocking the cowboy hat. Set in the key of D minor, the track blends rodeo whistles with a country-like guitar riff.
The track is protected under U.S. Copyright (filed and registered), and rights to use have been granted specifically to Trader Stu for content and promotional use related to his brand and media presence.
For additional licensing, custom audio, or to inquire about future collaborations and performances, contact:
📧 durracellmusic@gmail.com
🌐 www.durracell.com
13episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
I’m Hiring 1099 Reps And Testing AI To Grow Metro Trade
3w ago00:18:10Tap to summarizeA water main break turns into a real-time stress test for local small businesses and a reminder that community awareness can reveal trade opportunities. I also share how I’m changing my sales approach with 1099 reps and AI tools so Metro Trading Association can grow without relying on endless cold calling. • local state of emergency and how outages hit revenue, staff income, and inventory loss • why a barter network can act as a backup plan when cash flow and operations get disrupted • shifting from W-2 history to testing 1099 outside sales reps • using AI agents for prospecting, emails, and social posting while keeping a human cadence • lessons from a small networking meetup and a multi-agent AI tool suggestion • fuel prices, fewer trips, and the ROI logic for joining a barter exchange • sponsor support that helps cover a $400 application fee for businesses that need it If you're not already connected to me on alignable, do that and follow along and come to my event over at the Susie Q's kids over at there on Mound Road. So, what I'm doing is for three or to ten dollars, if you click on the link, you can sponsor the show anywhere between three and ten bucks. Send us Fan MailSupport the showThanks for listening to The Trading Post Podcast!Find all our important links— https://linktr.ee/traderstuThis episode of The Trading Post is proudly sponsored by Press X 2 Play Games, Metro Trading Association, and the Michigan Renaissance Festival. Exciting news—I’m featured as The Trader at the Trading Post in Press X 2 Play’s upcoming video game! Learn more about Press X 2 Play at pressx2play.games, discover how Metro Trading Association helps businesses grow through barter and trade, and explore the magic of the Michigan Renaissance Festival.Questions or guest suggestions? Email us at thetradingpostwithtraderstu@gmail.com“Whistles In The West” was written, recorded, and produced by Durracell, exclusively for use with Trader Stu’s platform. The track is protected under U.S. Copyright (filed and registered), and rights to use have been granted specifically to Trader Stu for content and promotional use related to his brand and media presence. For additional licensing, custom audio, or to inquire about future collaborations and performances, contact: 📧 durracellmusic@gmail.com 🌐 www.durracell.com© 2025 The Trading Post Podcast. All rights reserved.
Transcribe →What Happens When You Stop Marketing Online And Start Selling Door To Door
May 100:08:13Tap to summarizeWe share a real-time update on how we’re changing our marketing plan and why we’re building a sales force instead of trying to do everything ourselves. We break down how interns and 1099 outside sales reps can help grow a B2B trade exchange across Southeast Michigan and Northwest Ohio.• shifting away from relying on SEO and leaning into podcast-driven marketing• hiring 1099 contract outside sales reps because we can’t divide ourselves into five people• using interns as a win-win for students who want contacts and real B2B experience• what worked last time we expanded a sales team and why it’s worth repeating• how commission-only can fit interns and side-hustle sellers with existing rapport• setting clear territory boundaries so members can sell and spend trade locallyLet me know if you’ve ever tried this before and comment and whatever. Give me a direct message there, a DM. If you know anybody that’s looking for a side hustle, if you know an intern, a student, a college student, send them my way.Send us Fan MailSupport the showThanks for listening to The Trading Post Podcast!Find all our important links— https://linktr.ee/traderstuThis episode of The Trading Post is proudly sponsored by Press X 2 Play Games, Metro Trading Association, and the Michigan Renaissance Festival. Exciting news—I’m featured as The Trader at the Trading Post in Press X 2 Play’s upcoming video game! Learn more about Press X 2 Play at pressx2play.games, discover how Metro Trading Association helps businesses grow through barter and trade, and explore the magic of the Michigan Renaissance Festival.Questions or guest suggestions? Email us at thetradingpostwithtraderstu@gmail.com“Whistles In The West” was written, recorded, and produced by Durracell, exclusively for use with Trader Stu’s platform. The track is protected under U.S. Copyright (filed and registered), and rights to use have been granted specifically to Trader Stu for content and promotional use related to his brand and media presence. For additional licensing, custom audio, or to inquire about future collaborations and performances, contact: 📧 durracellmusic@gmail.com 🌐 www.durracell.com© 2025 The Trading Post Podcast. All rights reserved.
Transcribe →What If Your Empty Capacity Was Real Money
Apr 900:16:34Tap to summarizeWe talk through how small businesses can barter to grow, market, and protect cash when costs like gas rise fast. We also share a real example of trading for local TV exposure and why relationships and networking still beat fancy tactics. • using trade dollars to scale without spending cash • trading for local TV features to build brand recognition • why barter feels “old school” and how it is returning • gas price spikes and the hit to contractors and seasonal businesses • preserving cash flow by covering business expenses through barter • barter market growth and turning unused capacity into buying power • practical networking advice through chambers and relationship building get out there and network.Send us Fan MailSupport the showThanks for listening to The Trading Post Podcast!Find all our important links— https://linktr.ee/traderstuThis episode of The Trading Post is proudly sponsored by Press X 2 Play Games, Metro Trading Association, and the Michigan Renaissance Festival. Exciting news—I’m featured as The Trader at the Trading Post in Press X 2 Play’s upcoming video game! Learn more about Press X 2 Play at pressx2play.games, discover how Metro Trading Association helps businesses grow through barter and trade, and explore the magic of the Michigan Renaissance Festival.Questions or guest suggestions? Email us at thetradingpostwithtraderstu@gmail.com“Whistles In The West” was written, recorded, and produced by Durracell, exclusively for use with Trader Stu’s platform. The track is protected under U.S. Copyright (filed and registered), and rights to use have been granted specifically to Trader Stu for content and promotional use related to his brand and media presence. For additional licensing, custom audio, or to inquire about future collaborations and performances, contact: 📧 durracellmusic@gmail.com 🌐 www.durracell.com© 2025 The Trading Post Podcast. All rights reserved.
Transcribe →Sales Advice That Shapes Careers: What Actually Works
Mar 2600:11:50Tap to summarizeDiscover the sales and marketing strategies that actually drive career growth. In this episode, we break down the proven frameworks, mindsets, and practical tactics that top performers use to sell smarter, market with clarity, and build long‑term momentum. You’ll learn why obsession outperforms ideas, how to design a role around your energy, and why consistency beats chasing viral moments.We cover actionable strategies across sales, marketing, PR, hiring, and growth so you can move faster—without losing your edge:How to build a career around obsession, not a “unique idea”How to map what energizes vs. drains you to design your ideal roleWhy selling the transformation (the sizzle) outperforms selling featuresHow to sell in the right order: need → fit → dealWhy losing is the price of admission—and how to learn in publicHow to start a podcast by taking action before perfectionUsing mind maps to build a living strategy instead of rigid business plansChoosing sustainable marketing channels and winning with consistencyWriting your PR story package before approaching journalistsApproaching investors by asking for advice, not capitalLanding sponsorships using measurable results + emotional resonanceApplying the “7–8 rule” in hiring and performance managementUnderstanding brand as what people say when you stop talkingGrowing global early to diversify risk and unlock opportunityExecuting a simple, effective 30/60/90‑day plan for momentumIf this episode helped you, share it with one person who’s ready to grow their career or business.Send us Fan MailSupport the showThanks for listening to The Trading Post Podcast!Find all our important links— https://linktr.ee/traderstuThis episode of The Trading Post is proudly sponsored by Press X 2 Play Games, Metro Trading Association, and the Michigan Renaissance Festival. Exciting news—I’m featured as The Trader at the Trading Post in Press X 2 Play’s upcoming video game! Learn more about Press X 2 Play at pressx2play.games, discover how Metro Trading Association helps businesses grow through barter and trade, and explore the magic of the Michigan Renaissance Festival.Questions or guest suggestions? Email us at thetradingpostwithtraderstu@gmail.com“Whistles In The West” was written, recorded, and produced by Durracell, exclusively for use with Trader Stu’s platform. The track is protected under U.S. Copyright (filed and registered), and rights to use have been granted specifically to Trader Stu for content and promotional use related to his brand and media presence. For additional licensing, custom audio, or to inquire about future collaborations and performances, contact: 📧 durracellmusic@gmail.com 🌐 www.durracell.com© 2025 The Trading Post Podcast. All rights reserved.
Transcribe →What Happens When A Coffee Shop Becomes A Mini Marketplace
Mar 500:09:38Tap to summarizeWe explore how buying products on trade and selling for cash turns a neighborhood coffee roaster into a mini marketplace with strong margins and steady foot traffic. We share the Deer Camp story, compare it with big-brand marketing, and map out how local vendors can plug in fast.• buying on trade, selling for cash as a cashflow lever• Deer Camp’s curated local goods and café experience• how trade associations connect retailers and makers• lessons from Black Rifle’s investor-backed marketing• roasting schedule, operating hours, and product mix• vendor matchmaking to expand shelf variety• examples of underused trade opportunities locally• why the Cracker Barrel-style layout boosts basketsDEER CAMP® Coffee Roasting Company | Café | Store | Michigan | Wild Game | Gifts“If you’re near me, call me up 248-244-0000. Let’s have a conversation.”Send us Fan MailSupport the showThanks for listening to The Trading Post Podcast!Find all our important links— https://linktr.ee/traderstuThis episode of The Trading Post is proudly sponsored by Press X 2 Play Games, Metro Trading Association, and the Michigan Renaissance Festival. Exciting news—I’m featured as The Trader at the Trading Post in Press X 2 Play’s upcoming video game! Learn more about Press X 2 Play at pressx2play.games, discover how Metro Trading Association helps businesses grow through barter and trade, and explore the magic of the Michigan Renaissance Festival.Questions or guest suggestions? Email us at thetradingpostwithtraderstu@gmail.com“Whistles In The West” was written, recorded, and produced by Durracell, exclusively for use with Trader Stu’s platform. The track is protected under U.S. Copyright (filed and registered), and rights to use have been granted specifically to Trader Stu for content and promotional use related to his brand and media presence. For additional licensing, custom audio, or to inquire about future collaborations and performances, contact: 📧 durracellmusic@gmail.com 🌐 www.durracell.com© 2025 The Trading Post Podcast. All rights reserved.
Transcribe →Podcast Flywheels For Real Business Growth
Feb 2600:19:18Tap to summarizeWe share a simple system to turn a focused podcast into a self-sustaining flywheel for trust, leads, and reach. From choosing one core job to repurposing, micro CTAs, and meaningful metrics, we lay out a path that avoids burnout and builds momentum.• choosing one clear purpose for the show• structuring episodes around a single listener problem• guiding action with light, helpful CTAs• repurposing each episode into clips, posts and email• using search-driven, benefit-led titles• building an email + episode + offer loop• showing up consistently on one or two channels• growing community with questions and shout-outs• tracking retention, CTA clicks and signups over downloadsMI Gardener:MIgardener Grow GuidesSend us Fan MailSupport the showThanks for listening to The Trading Post Podcast!Find all our important links— https://linktr.ee/traderstuThis episode of The Trading Post is proudly sponsored by Press X 2 Play Games, Metro Trading Association, and the Michigan Renaissance Festival. Exciting news—I’m featured as The Trader at the Trading Post in Press X 2 Play’s upcoming video game! Learn more about Press X 2 Play at pressx2play.games, discover how Metro Trading Association helps businesses grow through barter and trade, and explore the magic of the Michigan Renaissance Festival.Questions or guest suggestions? Email us at thetradingpostwithtraderstu@gmail.com“Whistles In The West” was written, recorded, and produced by Durracell, exclusively for use with Trader Stu’s platform. The track is protected under U.S. Copyright (filed and registered), and rights to use have been granted specifically to Trader Stu for content and promotional use related to his brand and media presence. For additional licensing, custom audio, or to inquire about future collaborations and performances, contact: 📧 durracellmusic@gmail.com 🌐 www.durracell.com© 2025 The Trading Post Podcast. All rights reserved.
Transcribe →Small Business In A Shifting World
Feb 2000:09:57Tap to summarizeWe track how global turbulence flows straight to main street and turn it into a clear playbook for small businesses. From supply chain fragility to AI leverage and selective consumer demand, we map risks, spot signals, and share steps to move faster with less stress.• geoeconomic confrontation shaping rules and routes• small business optimism vs hazy outlook• AI adoption as a speed and scale lever• retail rebound and value-driven consumers• data center growth straining energy and minerals• cloud volatility and outage resilience• emerging regions as new partners and markets• five-step strategy on pricing, supply, AI, digital, and expansion• real-world outage example and cyber hygiene• personal reflections on pace, energy, and focusChange your passwords, update things, all the important stuffSend us Fan MailSupport the showThanks for listening to The Trading Post Podcast!Find all our important links— https://linktr.ee/traderstuThis episode of The Trading Post is proudly sponsored by Press X 2 Play Games, Metro Trading Association, and the Michigan Renaissance Festival. Exciting news—I’m featured as The Trader at the Trading Post in Press X 2 Play’s upcoming video game! Learn more about Press X 2 Play at pressx2play.games, discover how Metro Trading Association helps businesses grow through barter and trade, and explore the magic of the Michigan Renaissance Festival.Questions or guest suggestions? Email us at thetradingpostwithtraderstu@gmail.com“Whistles In The West” was written, recorded, and produced by Durracell, exclusively for use with Trader Stu’s platform. The track is protected under U.S. Copyright (filed and registered), and rights to use have been granted specifically to Trader Stu for content and promotional use related to his brand and media presence. For additional licensing, custom audio, or to inquire about future collaborations and performances, contact: 📧 durracellmusic@gmail.com 🌐 www.durracell.com© 2025 The Trading Post Podcast. All rights reserved.
Transcribe →How To Turn A Podcast Into Leads, Trust, And Real Reach
Feb 500:09:04Tap to summarizeWe break down how to use a podcast as a focused marketing tool by picking one goal, delivering value first, and guiding listeners with clear, helpful CTAs. Along the way, we talk audio quality, repurposing, titles that win search, and building a simple flywheel from episode to offer.• choosing one primary outcome for your show• structuring value-first episodes around specific problems• using micro CTAs that help without sounding salesy• repurposing episodes into clips, posts, and newsletters• deciding when guests help or hurt your format• building a simple podcast-to-email-to-offer ecosystem• writing searchable, benefit-driven episode titles• promoting consistently across platforms without burnout• engaging listeners with questions, polls, and stories• measuring downloads, retention, and CTA conversions• setting a sustainable publishing cadenceBe good or be good at it.Send us Fan MailSupport the showThanks for listening to The Trading Post Podcast!Find all our important links— https://linktr.ee/traderstuThis episode of The Trading Post is proudly sponsored by Press X 2 Play Games, Metro Trading Association, and the Michigan Renaissance Festival. Exciting news—I’m featured as The Trader at the Trading Post in Press X 2 Play’s upcoming video game! Learn more about Press X 2 Play at pressx2play.games, discover how Metro Trading Association helps businesses grow through barter and trade, and explore the magic of the Michigan Renaissance Festival.Questions or guest suggestions? Email us at thetradingpostwithtraderstu@gmail.com“Whistles In The West” was written, recorded, and produced by Durracell, exclusively for use with Trader Stu’s platform. The track is protected under U.S. Copyright (filed and registered), and rights to use have been granted specifically to Trader Stu for content and promotional use related to his brand and media presence. For additional licensing, custom audio, or to inquire about future collaborations and performances, contact: 📧 durracellmusic@gmail.com 🌐 www.durracell.com© 2025 The Trading Post Podcast. All rights reserved.
Transcribe →The Ministry Of Prepping?
Jan 3000:22:57Tap to summarizeWe explore how a messy backyard garden, township rules, and a few hard winters pushed us from lone-wolf prepping toward a service-first vision: a practical “ministry of prepping” that blends safety, community, and real skills. Strawberries, wood stoves, and one pastor’s nudge turn setbacks into a plan to help families and veterans build something resilient together.• shifting from SEO to podcasting as a business tool• failures and small wins in backyard gardening• wildlife pressure and local zoning blocking self-reliance• the true cost and timeline of preparedness• parenting outdoors and making time count• why community beats bunker thinking• a pastor’s prompt toward service and leadership• early vision for a “ministry of prepping”• concepts for tiny cabins, greenhouse systems, and a village layout• funding, constraints, and next-step experimentsSend us Fan MailSupport the showThanks for listening to The Trading Post Podcast!Find all our important links— https://linktr.ee/traderstuThis episode of The Trading Post is proudly sponsored by Press X 2 Play Games, Metro Trading Association, and the Michigan Renaissance Festival. Exciting news—I’m featured as The Trader at the Trading Post in Press X 2 Play’s upcoming video game! Learn more about Press X 2 Play at pressx2play.games, discover how Metro Trading Association helps businesses grow through barter and trade, and explore the magic of the Michigan Renaissance Festival.Questions or guest suggestions? Email us at thetradingpostwithtraderstu@gmail.com“Whistles In The West” was written, recorded, and produced by Durracell, exclusively for use with Trader Stu’s platform. The track is protected under U.S. Copyright (filed and registered), and rights to use have been granted specifically to Trader Stu for content and promotional use related to his brand and media presence. For additional licensing, custom audio, or to inquire about future collaborations and performances, contact: 📧 durracellmusic@gmail.com 🌐 www.durracell.com© 2025 The Trading Post Podcast. All rights reserved.
Transcribe →Turning Holiday Overstock Into Trade Value
Jan 1500:08:08Tap to summarizeWe share a fast, practical way to turn post-holiday overstock into real value using barter, consignment, and smart capacity planning. A 3D printing maker, a nonprofit partner, and a trade network show how to avoid clearance losses and keep cash in the bank.• converting unsold holiday stock into trade value• using consignment to move kiosk surplus• leveraging 3D printing for prototypes and rare parts• timing trade to fill off-peak capacity• protecting margins by avoiding clearance discounts• using community networking to speed movement• spending trade credits on needed servicesCome on out to Suzy Q’s Kids second Monday of the month and come say hi and do some networking and then pack some bags for the kiddosSend us Fan MailSupport the showThanks for listening to The Trading Post Podcast!Find all our important links— https://linktr.ee/traderstuThis episode of The Trading Post is proudly sponsored by Press X 2 Play Games, Metro Trading Association, and the Michigan Renaissance Festival. Exciting news—I’m featured as The Trader at the Trading Post in Press X 2 Play’s upcoming video game! Learn more about Press X 2 Play at pressx2play.games, discover how Metro Trading Association helps businesses grow through barter and trade, and explore the magic of the Michigan Renaissance Festival.Questions or guest suggestions? Email us at thetradingpostwithtraderstu@gmail.com“Whistles In The West” was written, recorded, and produced by Durracell, exclusively for use with Trader Stu’s platform. The track is protected under U.S. Copyright (filed and registered), and rights to use have been granted specifically to Trader Stu for content and promotional use related to his brand and media presence. For additional licensing, custom audio, or to inquire about future collaborations and performances, contact: 📧 durracellmusic@gmail.com 🌐 www.durracell.com© 2025 The Trading Post Podcast. All rights reserved.
Transcribe →