Podcast
Toys & Tech of the Trade
Hosted by Rich Butler · EN
Toys & Tech of the Trade is all about conversations with content creators, entrepreneurs, and awesome folks on our radar showcasing the gadgets, gear, and tech they use to run their business and create their content, as well as the "toys" that put a smile on their face.
12episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
77: Building a Podcast Network That Actually Supports Creators (Not Just Ad Sales)
Jun 101:00:34Tap to summarizeGuest: Rich Butler, Founder—RAGE Works Podcast NetworkOriginally aired on: Podcast Network Insights with Greg WassermanListen to the original: https://rss.com/podcasts/podcast-network-insights/2751235/About This EpisodeWhat 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.Quick StatsNetwork founded: 2014—12 years runningLongest-running show: Turnbuckle Tabloid—525+ episodesHosting platform: Captivate FMRevenue model: 80/20 split (network-sourced ads only)What We Cover0:00 — The jockey and the horseWhy talent matters more than gear and the analogy that frames everything.3:08 — What a podcast network actually isRich's definition: a one-stop shop for discoverability, cross-pollination, and variety.4:37 — How RAGE Works startedFrom 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 explainedWhy running a shared aggregation feed helps new shows build an audience before their individual feed even goes live.10:01 — Revenue without chasing ad salesHow the network makes money and why creator-sourced sponsorships get zero cut.16:09 — Red flags when evaluating a networkThe 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 operatorRemoving friction: RSS setup, editing, distribution, mic technique feedback, and platform reporting.23:29 — Audio vs. video in 2026Why audio comes first, how video complements it, and why the "us vs. them" framing is wrong.27:48 — Onboarding new showsThe discoverability call, the gear list, the Google Drive workflow, and how real onboarding actually works.33:43 — The long game and the ROI reframeWhy Rich defines ROI as "return on interest" and what Gary Vaynerchuk said on stage that nearly ended the network.39:41 — Book recommendationsJab, 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 thing26 years in, Rich's parting message for anyone still waiting to start.Key TakeawaysA 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.Most networks fail creators by leading with ad sales. Removing friction (RSS, editing, submission, platform reporting) is the actual service.If a creator sources their own sponsor, the network takes nothing. That's a deliberate choice, not a gap in the model.Audio first, always. Good audio teaches storytelling through inflection. Video amplifies what's already there; it doesn't replace it.Consistency is the real filter. If a network has to chase you for your episode, the show is already in trouble.Download counts aren't the metric. Ten loyal listeners in a room look very different when you're standing in front of them.Quote of the Episode"The podcast is the horse. You're the jockey. You have to be the compelling talent that makes me want to give a damn about you."— Rich Butler, Founder, RAGE Works Podcast NetworkResources MentionedRAGE Works Podcast Network — rageworks.netPress Record Studios — http://www.pressrecordstudios.comCaptivate FM — Podcast hosting platform used by the networkRiverside.fm — Remote recording platform used in this episodeOriginal Episode — Podcast Network Insights — https://rss.com/podcasts/podcast-network-insights/2751235/Book: Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook — Gary VaynerchukBook: The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck — Mark MansonPodcast: The Jay Ferruggia Podcast (formerly Renegade Radio)Podcast: Morning Chat with Mark Ronick
Transcribe →76: The Entrepreneurial Journey of Taekwondo Master Joseph Lupo Jr.
Feb 22, 202501:09:37Tap to summarizeToys & 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.comUpdate: 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/da7a5f33Toys, Tech, Awesome People, Stuff, and Services Mentioned in This EpisodeDisclaimer: 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 itemsGuest 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/@blackbeltwayoflifeSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/276fCOHsnHb8YcakObQqWP?si=9332a5ddfcf1451eAmazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9d314fb1-51bb-4232-b3ab-60247520f343/a-black-belt-way-of-lifeApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-black-belt-way-of-life/id1769633501Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565583651797Instagram: 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/rageworksKeep up with the RAGE Works Podcast Network • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworkspodcastnetwork• Twitter: https://twitter.com/rageworksnet
Transcribe →75: Overcoming Challenges: Starting a Studio and Staying Consistent in Podcasting
Oct 20, 202400:12:44Tap to summarizeAfter 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/da7a5f33Toys, Tech, Awesome People, Stuff, and Services Mentioned in This EpisodeDisclaimer: 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.comGuest Links• No guest this weekKeep 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/rageworksKeep up with the RAGE Works Podcast Network • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworkspodcastnetwork• Twitter: https://twitter.com/rageworksnet
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Rich Stops By The Play Big Faster Podcast
Jul 27, 202400:30:47Tap to summarizeToys & Tech of the Trade x Play Big FasterWhile 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/3A8JAjrUpdate: 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
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74: Content Creator Roundtable With Corey Gumbs & Matt Kaplowitz
Sep 11, 202300:43:47Tap to summarizeThis 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.comTrek Untold: https://www.rageworksnetwork.com/show/trek-untold/ Keep up with RAGE Works Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rageworks/Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAGE_WorksFacebook: 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/rageworkspodcastnetworkTwitter: https://twitter.com/rageworksnet
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73: Strengthening the Podcasting Community: Lessons from our Queens Event
Sep 3, 202300:21:51Tap to summarizeWe'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_WorksFacebook: 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/rageworkspodcastnetworkTwitter: https://twitter.com/rageworksnet
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72: The Brighter Side Of Suffering. Where Things Are & Where They're Going
Jun 17, 202300:35:47Tap to summarizeSo 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_WorksFacebook: 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/rageworkspodcastnetworkTwitter: https://twitter.com/rageworksnet
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71: Unlocking the Toys and Tech of Jason Skeesick's Trade: From Soldier to Entrepreneurial Evangelist
Mar 18, 202301:08:22Tap to summarizeUnlocking 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/42q505BEssentialism: https://amzn.to/3LyFcy8Never Split The Difference by Chris Voss: https://amzn.to/3TxTzooGary 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/podcastCheck 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.
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Toys & Tech of The Trade 2022 Gift Guide
Dec 19, 202200:39:19Tap to summarize2022 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/3PzZPtNAlex Desk Wheels: https://amzn.to/3WuHznGHarbor Freight Magnetic Powerstrip: https://bit.ly/3YvHgLbSamson Q2U: https://amzn.to/3hBDAa9Shure MV7: https://amzn.to/3jcRCj9Shure MV7X (XLR): https://amzn.to/3hv3sVnRode PodMic: https://fave.co/3BMXxlbLogitech C920: https://amzn.to/3VaAsj8Elgato Face Cam: https://amzn.to/3V9vNhJElgato Face Cam Pro: https://fave.co/3W6UKeYElgato Cam Link 4K: https://amzn.to/3WvH7p8Sony ZV-E10: https://amzn.to/3Pz5IHHSigma 16mm Lens for Sony E-Mount: https://amzn.to/3jfXQ1GWyze Bulbs: https://amzn.to/3V9ZhflDescript: 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/3WasOXoSwitchpod: https://amzn.to/3HHkLNvMantis Pod: https://amzn.to/3jcBRsuKoopla Wall Lights: https://amzn.to/3BGKGATWyze Scale: https://amzn.to/3Wnag5SWalking 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_WorksFacebook: 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/rageworkspodcastnetworkTwitter: https://twitter.com/rageworksnet
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70: The Adventures Of Matthew Stibbe
Nov 11, 202201:00:51Tap to summarizeIn 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/3UR1PPNDuolingo: 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/3USv7gVEndeavor: https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/33160/endeavorDark 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_WorksFacebook: 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/rageworkspodcastnetworkTwitter: 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.
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