A Life of Play by Jeff Cutler

Community Roundtable - June 26, 2009

jeff@jeffcutler.com — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 02:04:00 GMT

Listen to @rachelhappe and @jimstorer as they lead a lively discussion about media and community building within businesses.

This talk took place Friday, June 26, 2009 at John Harvard's Brew House in Cambridge, MA.

Enjoy and tweet your comments to me @jeffcutler

What's Next in Tech - Boston University - Scott Kirsner

jeff@jeffcutler.com — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 19:12:00 GMT

Here's the sound from two great panels at Thursday's What's Next in Tech event at the Boston University School of Management.

Scott Kirsner is the moderator.

Send all comments to me on Twitter @jeffcutler or on Facebook.com/thejeffcutler

Thanks!

Cuff's Cause Tweetup

jeff@jeffcutler.com — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 18:01:00 GMT

Here's a quick, once-around-the-room interview of the group at Cuff's Boston Tweetup last night (Thursday, June 24).

I like this format and will probably share many more of these.

Let me know what you think.

Comcast Frank - He Cares

jeff@jeffcutler.com — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 17:55:00 GMT

I was at an event the other night and ran into Comcast social media guru and Twitter adopter - see him at @comcastcares - Frank Eliason.

I hit him with a couple questions about social media and figured why not share them here.

Enjoy.

Jonathan Coulton (5)

jeff@jeffcutler.com — Fri, 15 May 2009 13:05:00 GMT

This is the fifth in a series of five Jonathan Coulton episodes. Here's the scenario...

In March 2008, I sat down and interviewed Jonathan Coulton for about an hour and 20 minutes. That interview has now been cut into five segments for your listening pleasure.

During each episode you'll also hear snippets of Coulton's music. Find more of that here.

If you have a topic for A Life of Play podcast, gimme a shout at jeff@jeffcutler.com or at alifeofplay@gmail.com.

And please leave your comments here on the blog.

Thanks!

Jonathan Coulton (4)

jeff@jeffcutler.com — Thu, 14 May 2009 13:04:00 GMT

This is the fourth in a series of five Jonathan Coulton episodes. Here's the scenario...

In March 2008, I sat down and interviewed Jonathan Coulton for about an
hour and 20 minutes. That interview has now been cut into five segments
for your listening pleasure.

During each episode you'll also hear snippets of Coulton's music. Find more of that here.

If you have a topic for A Life of Play podcast, gimme a shout at jeff@jeffcutler.com or at alifeofplay@gmail.com.

And please leave your comments here on the blog.

Thanks!

Jonathan Coulton (3)

jeff@jeffcutler.com — Thu, 14 May 2009 12:02:00 GMT

This is the third in a series of five Jonathan Coulton episodes. Here's the scenario...

In March 2008, I sat down and interviewed Jonathan Coulton for about an hour and 20 minutes. That interview has now been cut into five segments for your listening pleasure.

During each episode you'll also hear snippets of Coulton's music. Find more of that here.

If you have a topic for A Life of Play podcast, gimme a shout at jeff@jeffcutler.com or at alifeofplay@gmail.com.

And please leave your comments here on the blog.

Thanks!

Jonathan Coulton (2)

jeff@jeffcutler.com — Wed, 13 May 2009 12:59:00 GMT

This is the second in a series of five Jonathan Coulton episodes. Here's the scenario...

In March 2008, I sat down and interviewed Jonathan Coulton for about an hour and 20 minutes. That interview has now been cut into five segments for your listening pleasure.

During each episode you'll also hear snippets of Coulton's music. Find more of that here.

If you have a topic for A Life of Play podcast, gimme a shout at jeff@jeffcutler.com or at alifeofplay@gmail.com.

And please leave your comments here on the blog.

Thanks!

Jonathan Coulton (1)

jeff@jeffcutler.com — Tue, 12 May 2009 13:52:00 GMT

This is the first in a series of five Jonathan Coulton episodes. Here's the scenario...

In March 2008, I sat down and interviewed Jonathan Coulton for about an hour and 20 minutes. That interview has now been cut into five segments for your listening pleasure.

During each episode you'll also hear snippets of Coulton's music. Find more of that here.

If you have a topic for A Life of Play podcast, gimme a shout at jeff@jeffcutler.com or at alifeofplay@gmail.com.

And please leave your comments here on the blog.

Thanks!

Girls in Tech - Cambridge MA

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Thu, 7 May 2009 22:52:00 GMT

My name's Jeff Cutler and I'm a journalist and content creation specialist. I train companies and individuals how to communicate - and I sell my writing to companies when their resources or skills are too strained to deliver effective messaging.

I can be reached at jeff@jeffcutler.com and you can view my portfolio at jeffcutler.com.

As part of my ongoing research, I attend numerous technology and business events in the area. I recently made it to the Girls in Tech event in Cambridge, MA. I recorded the event and am making it available for anyone that would like it.

Here's how the Girls in Tech event for May 2009 was described...

Have you been wondering how to incorporate digital tools into your marketing or organizational processes?

Well, here's your chance. We've got a stellar group of panelists, each of whom focus on a specific aspect of "social media." They will have a discussion about how you can start thinking about implementing these tools and concepts into your organization (company, university, non-profit, you name it!) in an effective and beneficial way.

Additionally, we will be conducting two case studies, whereby each organization will be given the opportunity to describe themselves, what they do, what they have (or haven't done) with social media, what they hope to do (or maybe they don't know!) and gain valuable feedback from the panelists and audience members on how they can move in the right direction within the space.

The really great news? Those case studies will be two of you ladies (on behalf of yourselves or your organization).

If you would like to submit your organization for one of our case studies, please email Kate: kate@girlsintech.net and include the following information.

-Your name
-Your company name
-Brief description of what your company does
-Your current marketing or business development strategy (2-3 sentences)
-What you've done so far with social media, including what has been successful or unsuccessful
-Any pertinent questions you would have for the panelists
-Why you think your company makes a good case study!

Our panelists include:

Karen Rubin, Product Owner, HubSpot

Karen Rubin is a product owner at HubSpot, an internet marketing company whose visionary efforts have changed the nature of internet marketing for small and medium businesses. She has also worked in project and content management for some of the world's top web 2.0 companies, such as MainStreet.com, Stockpickr.com, iVillageLive.com and GiftCertificates.com. Karen also is co-star of HubSpot TV, a weekly video podcast about marketing and social media trends. Karen has a degree in Computer Science from Trinity College. Feel free to follow Karen on Twitter at http://twitter.com/karenrubin. To visit HubSpot, go to www.hubspot.com.

Rachel Happe, Co-Founder, Community Roundtable

Rachel Happe (http://www.twitter.com/rhappe) is Co-Founder and Principal at The Community Roundtable and has over fifteen years of experience working with emerging technologies including enterprise social networking, ecommerce, and enterprise software applications. Combining a career in business and software with a lifetime of watching her parents manage church communities, Rachel brings some unique perspectives into how both profit- and passion-driven organizations operate.

Prior to The Community Roundtable, Rachel served as a product executive at Mzinga, Bitpass, & IDe. In addition, as a technology analyst, Rachel initiated IDC's enterprise social software practice where she wrote groundbreaking research including The Power and Passion of Organic Communities: How Technology Can Be Used to Increase Discovery, Engagement, and Productivity; The Social Enterprise: How Social Networking Changes Everything; and U.S. Social Networking Application 2008â2012 Forecast: Enterprise Social Networking Takes Hold. Rachel started her business career at PRTM as a Business Analyst focused on helping technology companies understand and improve their product development operations. She writes at http://www.thesocialorganization.com

Mike Langford, Founder & Head Tweeter, TweetWorks

Mike is a serial entrepreneur with passion for making a difference in peoples lives. In addition to his roll at Tweetworks, Mike is a principal at the investment advisory firm Course Pilot Financial. Prior to launching Course Pilot he held a variety of roles as a member of the finance teams at Fidelity Investments and State Street Corporation. Mike earned his MBA from Boston Universityâs School of Management.

Cappy Popp, Co-Founder & Principal, Thought Labs

Cappy Popp is co-founder and Principal at Thought Labs, a social media strategy and implementation firm which has been building custom Facebook and social media solutions since the launch of the Facebook Platform. He has created successful Facebook strategies, applications, Pages, and integrated social media presences for companies of all sizes.

Before starting Thought Labs he was a Principal Engineer at NuMega/Compuware where he specialized in emerging technologies and used his fifteen years of software engineering experience to create award-winning enterprise debugging, testing, and monitoring software.

He has a deep understanding of Facebook internals, best practices, and strategy and is currently writing 'Facebook Development: A Complete Guide to Smart Application Development for the Facebook Platform' for Pearson/Addison-Wesley.

Agenda:

6:00-7:00 will be general networking

7:00-8:30 will be panel discussion and case studies, followed by Q&A

8:30-9:00 will be reserved for either wind-down networking or further Q&A if people are finding the discussion worthwhile!

Please use the Twitter Tag #GiTBos for the event

There will be an iPod raffle, courtesy of QTask, our new corporate-level sponsor.

This event is sponsored by MICROSOFT

Random Questions - NH Tweetup

jeff@jeffcutler.com — Thu, 7 May 2009 21:09:00 GMT

It's been a while since the last episode of A Life of Play and I've tossed it into a curveball mode.

Now you'll just see our original well-thought-out pieces and interviews along with some random sound from events and locations.

In fact, I might even upload some 'OVERHEARD' recordings here because people are so loathe to keep their conversations private when chatting in public.

This episode is a collection of answers to the question "What is your Twitter name and what are you wearing?" The rest is up to you.

Enjoy.

A Life of Play - 0022 - Scooters Scooters Scooters

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 04:20:00 GMT

Unlike the podcasts at Bowl of Cheese, the shows on A Life of Play are for the most part unscripted. Therefore thereâs no transcript to my interviews with the talented folks who appear hear.

But below are some of the resources that relate to the latest episode.

If youâve got an idea for A Life of Play podcast or want to appear on the show, send us an email - alifeofplay@gmail.com - give us a call - 206-888-2715 - or just scroll down and leave a comment below.

Here are your scooter resources:

http://vespalx150.blogspot.com/index.html http://thescooterscoop.com/

http://girlbike.com/ http://lx50vespa.blogspot.com/

http://2strokebuzz.com/index.php http://www.sctrcst.com/

http://justgottascoot.com/

Here is Angieâs information:

Angie Thibault
Prez and founder- ladies scooter society of boston
Technical Director- YMCA theater, central square in cambridge
Regional cordinator for SQREAM, the national queer scooter club
Comedian
http://www.myspace.com/saphic
"Better to make yourself briefly unpopular than to become permanently compromised"

Still looking? Then just google scooter and youâll find local clubs and lots of friendly people willing to help you out.

I for one are planning to buy a scooter this spring and will likely be going to Javaspeed in Providence, Rhode Island. Their page is http://www.javaspeed.net.

Until next time, enjoy your life of play.

A Life of Play - 0021 - Ice Hockey

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 02:24:00 GMT

In this episode we talk ice hockey with Jay Kumar. His own podcast, Completely Conspicuous, can be found here.

Enjoy and send your feed back to us at alifeofplay@gmail.com or give us a call at 201-793-8255.

See you out there!

A Life of Play - 0020

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Sun, 18 Mar 2007 23:53:00 GMT

Today we speak with Steve Walker who has run 14 marathons and shares his tips and insight on getting into shape and running your first marathon.

Steve is also the host of Phedippidations - the running podcast.

Enjoy!

Remember, to reach us you can call - 201-793-TALK (8255) or leave a comment in the show notes. Or send us an email.

And visit Bowl of Cheese for links to my other podcast and companion blog.

See you out there...

A Life of Play - 0019

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Sat, 18 Nov 2006 02:29:00 GMT

Yes, we're back!

A Life of Play podcast has Brian Mollica on the air with us during this episode. He tells us everything we need to know about having fun at comedy clubs.

Leave your feedback below or send us a note. Or now you can call us on the new phone - 201-793-8255 (TALK).

And have fun out there people!

A Life of Play - QuickCast and Update

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Fri, 20 Oct 2006 13:15:00 GMT

Hey listeners, I've been working at making A Life of Play more friendly, regular and valuable.

I think I've done it.

BUT, before I load up on the value-packed episodes I'm going to give you one or two more episodes of the Bowl of Cheese podcast.

If you like this one, go to iTunes and subscribe or go to my blog get the RSS feed from there.

Otherwise, send me and email at ALOP or at BOC and be sure to vote at Podcast Alley. Just do a search for each show.

Thanks for listening and there certainly is more to come.

See you out there...

Bowl of Cheese - ONE

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Wed, 18 Oct 2006 01:06:00 GMT

Here's episode ONE of the Bowl of Cheese podcast. I plan to toss a few of these up here while lining up my next expert interviews for A Life of Play.

So enjoy and let me know what you think by emailing me or putting your comments in the show notes.

If you want to read along with me, go to my blog and look for the post that corresponds with the words that are coming from your speakers.

More to come...

A Life of Play - 0018 - MINICAST

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Fri, 6 Oct 2006 11:35:00 GMT

OK. As I sit here this morning I'm contemplating tossing my computer out the window because I played with the iTunes settings and this has caused me to lose one full day of my life.

That's right, by adjusting the sound settings downward (so the podcast will fit nicely in a quick download) I hurt my other music. I guess you can't hurt music, but I inadvertently left the settings LOW AND MONO while I imported about 200 of my own CDs so I could put them on my iPod.

Now I don't know if this will be noticable when I'm listening, but I suspect it will be and I will have to re-import all this music. Aughhhh!

On a nice note, you now have a new episode of A Life of Play podcast to listen to. In this episode I tighten up my thoughts, my voice is better, and I give you a TON of stuff to do over the next week or so.

If you want more details on any event, just send me an email, visit this page (the one we're on) and put a comment in the show notes, or call me at 206-973-PLAY.

Additionally, give A Life of Play a VOTE at Podcast Alley so we can jump into the top 100 for October.

By the way, one of my newest cross promos is with a guy and a gal who do a kid's book podcast. It's called Just One More Book... here's their link.

www.russelltours.com
www.outdoors.org
www.ems.com
www.americanhiking.com
www.webwalking.com/hiking.html
www.14ers.com/peakbag.html
home.comcast.net/~garyt1/peaklist.html

Until next time - when I hope to have a longer show for you or another jam-packed minicast, I'll see you out there...

A Life of Play - 0017 - MINICAST

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Mon, 2 Oct 2006 11:51:00 GMT

Yup. The first MiniCast of A Life of Play.

I chat about hiking and give you info from my personal experience and from GORP.com.

And while I planned to make them all about five minutes, this one gets to be about 15 minutes long, so bear with me as I whittle my blathering down to suit the definition of minicast.

Thanks!!

As with any of our topics on A Life of Play, here are some links to help you learn more. If you have any questions or issues, please contact us via phone - 206-973-PLAY or EMAIL. Or even leave a note for us in the show note comments at the bottom of the page.

If you want to appear on A Life of Play - get in touch! We love to talk to experts and planned topics for future episodes include kayaking, travel, Bed and Breakfasts, all about tea, the gun range, art shows, music festivals, triathlon and duathlon, swimming and more.

Additionally, give A Life of Play a VOTE at Podcast Alley so we can jump into the top 100 for October.

By the way, one of my newest cross promos is with a guy and a gal who do a kid's book podcast. It's called Just One More Book... here's their link.

www.russelltours.com
www.outdoors.org
www.ems.com
www.americanhiking.com
www.webwalking.com/hiking.html
www.14ers.com/peakbag.html
home.comcast.net/~garyt1/peaklist.html

FINALLY, A Life of play has been reviewed in popular publication. TAKE A LOOK at the review. Write to us, visit us online or call us.

AND DON'T FORGET TO VOTE this month.

See you out there...

And the minicasts begin!

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Mon, 2 Oct 2006 11:24:00 GMT

Just a quickie announcement that I've had a cold for a few weeks - hmmm, suspicious that it happened right after Octoberfest!!

But now I've just completed my first minicast and have a handful more planned for upcoming weeks.

In this first one we cover hiking tips and do a quick recap on my most recent activites. Upcoming shows will cover outdoor and leisure technology, we'll do our comedy show with Brian from the MSR comedy podcast, and a whole lot more.

So stay tuned in and subscribed.

Thanks and I'll see you out there...

A Life of Play - 0016

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Fri, 15 Sep 2006 10:25:00 GMT

And without a hitch - except for the bumps in my schedule - episode 16 of A Life of Play is up.

In this episode, Mike Smith of Harpoon Brewery finishes his comments on beer making, the industry, home brewing and life.

It's a fun exchange that I think you'll enjoy. The great thing is that you can meet Mike and the whole Harpoon crew at their Octoberfest happening the end of September in South Boston, MA.

Also in this episode I briefly mention toying around with a new format. I'm planning to do a bunch of 'mini casts' of about 10 minutes that will give you pointers on a specific activity and a quick list of events in a certain part of the world.

Then, every fourth or fifth episode will be a fulll-length interview with an expert. I think the move will give you more quality interviews and allow me to impart much more knowledge without destroying my calendar.

You see, I like to get out and play as much as anyone and my current schedule only allows me one day of play. That's not A LIFE of Play, now is it?

Please let me know what you think of the new format. Send me an email, put a comment in the show notes right here, call me at 206-973-PLAY or think really positive thoughts and I'll try to intercept your brainwaves.

Until next episode (oh, yes, go VOTE now at Podcast Alley), I will see you out there...

A Life of Play - 0015

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Fri, 8 Sep 2006 08:11:00 GMT

Hey, episode 15 of A Life of Play podcast is here.

In this part one of two, we talk with Mike Smith of Harpoon Brewery about beer and every aspect of tasting, brewing and enjoying this incredible beverage.

We've been on a little holiday for three months and this show is a great way to get back into the swing.

Visit podcast alley and give us a vote when you get a chance. The show notes for episode 16 will have more links than these, but please go vote at podcastalley.com. Then go see all the events happening at harpoonbrewery.com.

Call - 206-973-PLAY or leave a comment below if you need to talk to A Life of Play.

See you out there...

A Life of Play is BACK!!!

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Thu, 7 Sep 2006 16:14:00 GMT

After a glorious summer break (or what you might call 'holiday' in Europe), the staff of A Life of Play is back at the computer getting shows ready for the next nine months.

Right off the bat we will be interviewing Mike Smith from Harpoon Brewery in Boston, MA.

Then it's off to part two of Mike's interview and great discussion of making your own beer.

Show 16 will be all about comedy and comedy clubs with our old friend Brian Mollica.

And we expect show 17 to cover the interesting sport of tree climbing.

So, hold tight for a few more days and then get ready for the fun.

See you out there...

A Life of Play - 0014

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Tue, 11 Jul 2006 00:56:00 GMT

This week we spoke with MaryBeth Bond of Gutsy Traveler.com.

Here are the interview questions and a few links to help you find out more about travel.

What's your name, position and how did you become a travel expert?

What are two or three things people must know before they plan a trip?

Your current project for National Geographic Books is a women's travel book. How does travel differ between the sexes? Or, what do women look for in a destination or travel experience that men might
not be aware of?

What challenges do women face when trying to arrange a vacation with other women?

How have traveling attitudes changed over time? (weekend to paris instead of full weeks; travel for
one particular goal (museums or spa) as opposed to "hop on the bus and see the whole country"?

What resources do you suggest to my listeners when they are planning a vacation?

How does travel within the US differ from international travel?

What are the current hot spots?

How can women, or anyone, take a trip cheaply?

What are the pitfalls that swallow up your travel budget?

What's your favorite travel destination?

What was your best trip ever?

Gutsy Traveler

Travel and Leisure

Kayak

Send us an email with show ideas or feedback.

Vote for A Life of Play.

See you out there...

Podfading - not hardly

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Fri, 7 Jul 2006 10:46:00 GMT

Hey, Listeners.

This is just a quick note to let you know I've been on vacation and didn't plan ahead well enough to keep A Life of Play stocked with shows for the past two weeks.

Well, going forward, I hope to change that. Right now, I'm working on the show for July 12 and also trying to put a few others in the can so we don't experience a gap like this in the future.

As a quick recap, I've been doing bike related stuff, some travel and a lot of Tour de France watching.

Get out there and enjoy yourselves and I'll have A Life of Play ready soon to guide you in your adventures.

If you'd like to be interviewed on the show, just send us an email and we'll get you on!

Until then, see you out there...

New Promo posted

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Thu, 29 Jun 2006 10:54:00 GMT

Hey, listeners. Here's the latest promo snippet for A Life of Play. Hope you like it!

See you out there...

Oh, yes - Episode 14 should be up by tomorrow. We're doing a simple feature on all the different things people do on the 4th of July.

A Life of Play - 0013

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 14:12:00 GMT

Hi Listeners! In ALOP number 13, we speak with Aidan Doherty of Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) about kayaking. I know I've been promising this interview for a while and it definitely lives up to expectations!!

Here are the questions I asked Aidan and then there are some kayaking links below that.

As always, leave me a comment in the show notes, send me an email or call me and leave a voicemail - 206-973-PLAY.

And JUNE is not over yet, so if you haven't voted, please go now and do so. Thanks!!!!

Questions:
How did you get involved in kayaking?
What does a novice need to know -- how do you get into the sport?
Tell me a little about kayaks and other paddle craft.
Where can you kayak?
What must you have when you're out on the water?
Talk about whitewater for a moment.
How good a kayaker are you?
Where are the best places to go in the world?
What other forms does kayaking take as a sport -- say Olympics, etc.?
Exercises to prepare yourself physically?
Talk products for a second?
What else should people know -- racks, transporting, navigation?

Links:
www.ems.com
www.thule.com
www.outdoors.org
www.kayak.com (I know, this is a travel aggregator, but it has the word kayak in the name and you can use it to get cheap airfare to kayaking destinations)
www.canoekayak.com

See you out there...

A Life of Play - 0012

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Thu, 15 Jun 2006 03:57:00 GMT

WOW. I've got some friends who hike like maniacs every weekend, but none of my friends have yet signed up of a hiking journey like the ones offered by Bill Russell of Russell Tours. That's where they're missing out!

Mr. Russell and I spoke for about 20 minutes the other day and his interview is chock full of details on the amazing things about hiking at home (whatever continent you're on) and abroad. We cover the essentials and talk about equipment, fitness, resources and what is included in a hiking tour.

As with any of our topics on A Life of Play, here are some links to help you learn more. If you have any questions or issues, please contact us via phone - 206-973-PLAY or EMAIL. Or even leave a note for us in the show note comments at the bottom of the page.

If you want to appear on A Life of Play - get in touch! We love to talk to experts and planned topics for future episodes include kayaking, travel, Bed and Breakfasts, all about tea, the gun range, art shows, music festivals, triathlon and duathlon, swimming and more.

Additionally, give A Life of Play a VOTE at Podcast Alley so we can jump into the top 100 for June.

www.russelltours.com
www.outdoors.org
www.ems.com
www.americanhiking.com
www.webwalking.com/hiking.html
www.14ers.com/peakbag.html
home.comcast.net/~garyt1/peaklist.html

FINALLY, A Life of play has been reviewed in popular publication. TAKE A LOOK at the review.

A Life of Play - 0011

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Sat, 10 Jun 2006 01:50:00 GMT

Wow. After a bit of a struggle trying to manipulate my schedule to match with a guest, I just scrapped that idea and put together a question and answer session for you.

The A Life of Play Q and A covers a handful of common questions about fun things we all might like to do in our free time. Here are a few of the links I mentioned in the show.

And remember to POD THE VOTE when you get a chance.

Also, feel free to send your emails to us when you can, to suggest new guests, new topics and to send in questions for the Q and A show when we do our next one!

Thanks and I'll see you out there...

www.thetraveldoctor.com
www.atlantickayaktours.com
www.paddling.net
www.travelandleisure.com
www.canoekayak.com
www.budgettravelonline.com
www.kayak.com
www.orbitz.com
www.priceline.com
www.expedia.com

Episode 11 IS REALLY on its way...

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Thu, 8 Jun 2006 19:45:00 GMT

Hey, Listeners!

Hope you're enjoying ALOP number 10. I think it was a great topic and I've already signed upm on Geocaching.com and found a few places near my home to explore.

But that's not why I'm writing. I just wanted to reassure you that Episode 11 will be up soon. I had a horrid fever earlier this week and was unable to do my interviews.

SO, I expect that I'll get the show up tonight (Thursday) or tomorrow (Friday) and you'll be set with some quality podcast entertainment for the weekend.

Thanks for your patience. Call me at 206-973-PLAY, email me at alifeofplay@gmail.com or just leave a comment below.

See you out there...

HEY - don't forget to POD THE VOTE. Each vote gets us closer to being in the top 100 and once we get there, whoooo boy. Then fame and fortune follow.

Thanks!

Geocaching links and info

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Mon, 5 Jun 2006 00:39:00 GMT

Hey. Sorry for the delay in getting this info up. Chris LeBrun was great in our podcast episode 10. Here are a few of the links he talked about.

By the way, most are at Geocaching.com which is an AMAZING site to go to for info on this pastime. I've already set up an account.

www.geocaching.com/faq/

www.geocaching.com

www.upne.com/1-58465-334-5.html

www.brillig.com/geocaching/

www.geocaching.com.au/cache/gch9c8

Got any ideas for an upcoming show? Send an email, stop by the site (you're already here) and put a comment down below. Or give me a call with your comments - 206-973-PLAY.

FINALLY, go and POD THE VOTE. That means go vote for this podcast. The better ratings we get, the more exposure and the better content we can provide. Link to the voting area is

HERE

Thanks and I'll see you out there...

A Life of Play - 0010

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Thu, 1 Jun 2006 11:44:00 GMT

Chris LeBrun and I spoke for about 20 or so minutes about Geocaching. We covered the ways people can get involved (it's easy) and the fun that this amazing activity offers anyone who wants to get out and have some fun in their free time.

In fact, Geocaching can even be done from the comfort of your car if you're a complete LAZE! And new technology like better GPS units and GoogleMaps have attracted many more people to this 'sport'.

The best resource that I've found so far is Geocaching.com - a site that introduces you to the caches in your area and to a whole community of cachers.

Show notes are pretty sparse so far because I was in a rush to get this show on the air, but I'll be adding links to a subsequent post so you can find out more.

For now, just enjoy. Put a comment down below - call me at 206-973-PLAY or email the show.

And I'll see you out there...

Episode #10 IS COMING

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Wed, 31 May 2006 11:15:00 GMT

Just a heads up that episode 10 of A Life of Play podcast will get here. Iâm still trying to get our guest speaker to call in.

I anticipate the interview will take place tonight (Wednesday) and the show will be up by Thursday morning.

This week, weâre exploring the wonderful world of exploring. Thatâs right, orienteering/geocaching â whatever you call it, itâs fun!

As always, if you have comments, put them below. If you want to hear your voice on the air, call us at 206-973-PLAY (7529). And if you want to reach us via email sent a note to alifeofplay@gmail.com

Iâm planning to start getting shows in the can more regularly so that I can go out there and play. So if you know an expert who wants to be a part of A Life of Play, also contact us in one of the ways listed above.

In coming weeks weâll be doing shows on:

Completing your first charity bike ride; hiking; kayaking; Golf Tournament organization; a totally question and answer session about outdoor and indoor fun things to do (send in your questions today); photography; art shows; the gun range; and more.

Until later, Iâll see you out thereâ

A Life of Play - 0009

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Wed, 24 May 2006 06:06:00 GMT

Here we go with the holiday weekend!!!

In episode 0009, we speak with Phyllis Cambria of Party Plans Plus. She guides us through a variety of ways you can host a great Memorial Day, or any occasion party.

Here are the questions I asked of her and below are some links she provided for finding out more. By the way, her site is a treasure trove of info on all sorts of parties.

Cambria and her partner have written numerous books and speak to audiences regularly about this topic.

What is your name? What's your expertise? How did you begin in this business?
What's the history of entertaining/have holidays - at least in the U.S. - created a market for leisure products and people like yourself?
What should everyone know about putting on the perfect event?
How do these steps apply to creating the perfect cookout?
What should people have on their Memorial Day cookout-shopping list?
How long does preparation take for a perfect event?
What emergencies (weather/too little ice) do people have to be prepared for?
How has the cookout changed since the invention of the charcoal grill?
What recipe ideas can you provide that are simple and popular?
How do you create the right atmosphere for mingling and memorable experiences?
These days people have many circles of friends. How can you safely bring these different groups together?
Talk for a moment about being a guest at a cookout or backyard party. What's the etiquette?
Tell me about the most memorable event you've planned in your career.
What else do listeners need to know?
How can they contact you?

partyplansplus.com

www.usmemorialday.org/

www.marthastewart.com/

www.vegweb.com/

www.weber.com/bbq/pub/recipe/grilling101/

Contact Phyllis

Contact A Life of Play

Pod the Vote - hurry

See you out there...

The Best Barbecue EVER

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Mon, 22 May 2006 19:12:00 GMT

Hey, listeners. Episode 9 will feature a professional party planner and genius when it comes to functions. We'll mine her vast knowledge for great tips on how to put on the best Memorial Day or any occasion barbecue.

Show should be out by Wednesday so you can plan your weekend!

And, as always, leave your comments below, give us a call -206-973-PLAY (7529) or send us an email.

We could also use some more Podcast Alley votes before the end of the month.

Just head over to http://podcastalley.com/podcast_details.php?pod_id=23888
and put in a vote for this podcast.

See you out there...

A Life of Play - 0008

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Fri, 19 May 2006 05:14:00 GMT

Here's A Life of Play - Episode 8 for May 17, 2006.

We speak about throwing Boomerangs with Hurlin' Will Herlan.

**There will be a bonus clip from this episode right here on the Website. Our interview went over by 15 minutes so you'll get that final 15-minute segment here-unedited for FREE!

Thanks for listening. See you out there...

BONUS Boomerang Post

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Fri, 19 May 2006 03:37:00 GMT

Here's the missing 14 minutes from the Herlan tapes!!

Please bear with the recording. It's just 14 minutes unedited of the great stuff Hurlin' Will Herlan and I talked about this week.

We discuss the World Cup of Boomerangs, events in St. Louis, Seattle and San Fran. We talk about hotbeds of Boomerang activity like Ohio, Massachusetts and more.

I just couldn't fit it all into our regular 30-minute episode...so enjoy!

Download it by clicking on the DIRECT DOWNLOAD LINK below...or if I've done something wrong, it will show up in iTunes. We'll see.

See you out there...

Episode 0008 Show Notes

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Thu, 18 May 2006 13:13:00 GMT

In Episode 0008 we speak with Hurlin' Will Herlan, a boomerang enthusiast from Seattle who has been involved in the sport for 29 years.

We talk about what it takes to get into throwing boomerangs, the history behind the 'weapon'/stick, and some neat intricacies like the community, the nuances and the prominence (THERE'S A WORLD CUP!!!).

Enjoy the show - put your comments in the show notes - or send us an email - alifeofplay@gmail.com

Here is the question list I used for Will's interview. Links provided by Hurlin' Will are down below.

What's your name and what's your sport?

Where are you from?

How did you get into boomeranging - what's the jargon/slang for this?

Is it classified as a sport or a pasttime?

What events are there?

How do you play as a team?

What's the history of boomerangs?

What's the history of the sport?

What's it cost to get involved?

Where do you buy equipment?

What do people wear?

Who plays?

How do you find other players (what's the term for that - rangers?)

Where is it most popular?

What's the future going to bring?

What other sports do you play?

Where has boomeranging taken you?

What else can you tell me?

Here are the suggested sites from Hurlin' Will

http://www.usba.org

http://www.geocities.com/hithg_boomerangs/home.html

http://www.master-designs.com/

http://www.flight-toys.com/boomerangs.htm

http://www.theboomerangman.com/

http://www.coloradoboomerangs.com/

http://www.rediboom.com/englisch/bauplane/index.html

http://www.boomerangpassion.com/english.php

See you out there...

Episode 0008 IS COMING

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Thu, 18 May 2006 13:10:00 GMT

Just a heads up that the show is on its way. I've had an email snafu and that has taken some of my attention this week, but Episode 0008 will be up tonight (THURSDAY). I will be posting show notes in a second. Thanks for your patience. See you out there...

Vote for A Life of Play

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Fri, 12 May 2006 18:13:00 GMT

Each month, Podcast Alley tabulates votes for the most popular podcasts. I'd like to gain some ground and I can do so with the help of my loyal listeners.

Just head over to http://podcastalley.com/podcast_details.php?pod_id=23888
and put in a vote for this podcast.

And feel free to contact us at alifeofplay@gmail.com.

Thanks!

See you out there...

A Life of Play - 0007

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Thu, 11 May 2006 06:51:00 GMT

Episode 0007 is all about computer gaming on the Macintosh and the PC.

Here are some of the questions we asked Bruce Morrison from Freeverse this week. You can find more info about the company and about gaming online at www.freeverse.com.

Remember, monkeys on fire aren't very friendly.

Who are you and what is Freeverse?
Is gaming that big a pasttime?
How do you compete with XBox and PS2 and other forms of distraction?
What's your best game?
How many games do you produce?
Do they cost anything?
How long should a person be prepared to dedicate to playing a game?
How addictive are they?
How did you get into the industry?
What's the future hold for online gaming?
What are you competing with?
Talk to me about virtual reality and how it might play a role in the future?
What are the benefits of gaming (reflexes, intelligent problem solving)
What are your favorite games of all time?
How do other countries compare in their online gaming saturation?
If you had a million dollars, what would you do with it?
What real world things do you participate in?
Tell me anything else about Freeverse, gaming or you.
Where can listeners get your games?

And for other gaming resources, try the following links:

Xbox.com

Linden Lab - Makers of Second Life

Quarter Arcade

Inside Mac Games

Playstation

If you have an idea for a show - just send an email or put a comment in the show notes below.

Or, if you want your comments on the air, leave us a voicemail at 206-973-PLAY (7529).

See you out there...

A Life of Play - 0006

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Wed, 3 May 2006 21:25:00 GMT

Here's the Karri Norton interview on Wine. Get out there and host your own wine tasting party and find ways to have more fun with wine.

Send your comments to us via phone - call 206-973-PLAY (7529) and leave a message; via email at alifeofplay@gmail.com or via the comment field at the bottom of each entry on this page.

See you out there...

Episode 0006 SHOW NOTES

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Wed, 3 May 2006 16:05:00 GMT

This week we talked with Karri Norton of Seattle about wine.

Here are some of the questions we asked as well as some links to wine resources that you can use when planning your next - or first - wine event!

**********************************
What makes a wine desirable
How does trend drive wine popularity (Shiraz)
Many people saw Sideways - how close to real is the wine world depicted in that movie
What are the basics of tasting wine
What about spitting it out
What do you look for - in the taste
Is wine an acquired taste or should it just taste good to you the first time you try it
Do we do something to wines here that other countries don't
Are other types of wine frowned upon (fruit wines)
The wine I had in France was great - no matter if it was $2 a bottle or $30 a bottle - why
Should people take a class on wine tasting or just venture out on their own
What are your favorites
What's the next great thing in wine
Tell me about cork vs screwtops vs boxes and bags
How long does a wine tasting take, what should people bring
What's the best nugget of info you can give listeners about wine

**********************************

Karri's blog - which covers wine and many eclectic topics - can be found here.

Other links of note:

Wine Spectator

Geerlings & Wade

2 B A Snob

So You Wanna Know About Wine

If you have comments about the show, leave them below or send an email to alifeofplay@gmail.com.

See you out there...

New Skype number!!

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Wed, 3 May 2006 13:04:00 GMT

If you need to reach A Life of Play and don't feel like leaving a comment here or sending me an email (see link to the right), then you can call and leave your comments at A Life of Play's new Skype number.

There's an answering machine there to take your comments and then with your permission, I'll play some of them on a future episode.

The number is (206) 973-7529, that's 206-973-PLAY.

See you out there...

Here comes A Life of Play...episode 0006

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Mon, 1 May 2006 21:33:00 GMT

Episode 0006 is in production and should be up by Wednesday morning. We're finalizing our interviews with a wine tasting guru and we're trying to get our expert in Italy AND our expert in California to be on at the same time.

If we're unsuccessful, you'll at least get to hear one of them. As always, if you have comments or suggestions, send them to A Life of Play.

See you out there...

A Life of Play - 0005

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Tue, 25 Apr 2006 00:05:00 GMT

Rock Climbing is an amazing sport and this week we speak with Zavi who walks us through the basics and gives listeners a taste of what you might want to know before trying to scale a monstrous rock.

Resources this week include:

www.rockclimbing.com/
www.climbing.com/
www.climbing.com.au/
alumnus.caltech.edu/~sedwards/climbing/
www.abc-of-rockclimbing.com/
www.joshuatreerockclimbing.com/

And even another podcast that has 100 full episodes on rock climbing!!!

www.podclimber.com/

ALSO, as I mentioned in the podcast, I was at the Boston Independent Film Festival and saw some great shows this past weekend. Here's the link to that event and a few other film festivals...

www.iffboston.org/
www.filmfestivals.com/index.shtml
www.tribecafilmfestival.org/
**Tribeca starts this week!!!!

If you've got an event to share, just write to me alifeofplay@gmail.com with your adventure recap, comments and ideas for future shows.

Leave comments here on the show notes. And check back to A Life of Play each week for another great adventure in having fun.

See you out there...

A Life of Play Promo

Mon, 24 Apr 2006 23:53:00 GMT

Here's the official, A Life of Play promo clip. It's 47 seconds long, but is finished and ready for use.

Getting Episode 0005 ready

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Mon, 24 Apr 2006 17:19:00 GMT

A whirlwind tour.

The last week was more like an adventure in the wilds of urban lifestyle. I had a birthday, saw the Boston Marathon, went to a Red Sox game (they won via walk-off homer in the bottom of the 9th), rode my road bike (2 hrs on real roads), rode my mountain bike with a group of local riders for 2+ hours over trails that are in phenomenal shape (see the Wompatuck link below), saw a bunch of movies, won $40 in poker and interviewed a guy from St. Louis for this week's topic - Rock Climbing.

PHEW!!

As a reminder, this podcast has been made possible in part by the contribution of time and tips provided by Peter D'Angelo of http://www.petersmactips.libsyn.com and http://www.podcastingmacstyle.libsyn.com - head over there to listen to my ongoing interviews with Peter and to hear the advice he's given me on making A Life of Play more successful.

A Life of Play podcast is now in its fifth episode and I'll be including show notes in the next post. We talk with Zavi from St. Louis about Rock Climbing.

If there's something you want us to explore - send us an email at alifeofplay@gmail.com or just leave a comment on any post.

And please share your adventures with us. People love to hear what other people are doing because it gives us all great ideas on stuff to do in our free time.

Thanks!

See you out there...

alifeofplay@gmail.com

A Life of Play - 0004 - part 2 of 2

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Tue, 18 Apr 2006 04:09:00 GMT

Show notes are posted in the previous post. BUT, as a quick recap we talk with Brian Mollica of the All-In Poker Podcast on My Sports Radio. Then we talk with Kathleen Rogers, the president of the Earth Day Network.

Show is about 35 minutes long and will help you find ways to have fun in Vegas and on Earth Day around the world.

Finally, let me know if the format works for you and if the audio is OK. This podcast is for you the listeners, so help me make it a fun experience for you...just like our topics that are here to help you have the most fun you can in your free time.

See you out there...

Episode 0004 - Show Notes

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Tue, 18 Apr 2006 02:50:00 GMT

A Life of Play episode 0004 will be out sometime on Tuesday - again a day ahead of deadline - and features two great interviews.

We first hear the second part of Brian Mollica's chat with us about the fun you can have in Las Vegas. Brian tells us about learning poker online and also gives a hot tip about how you can get an $8 meal at one of the best known restaurants in the world.

Then, we talk with Kathleen Rogers of the Earth Day Network. She comments on how Earth Day has progressed from its first showing to where the event is today.

We also talk about different things you can do to make a difference and the resources available to find events and fun things to do in your neck of the woods during your Earth Day celebration.

Send your comments and suggestions for future shows to alifeofplay@gmail.com.

Here are a few links to the resources we talk about during our interviews with both Brian and Kathleen. Also, I've listed the phone number for the congressional switchboard where you can call to do two things:

Ask your congressperson to allow online poker in the United States, and ask that same congressperson to support initiatives like Ethanol and other environmentally friendly ways to save our planet.

They can be reached at 202-224-3121.

Links:

http://www.mysportsradio.com

http://www.earthday.net/

http://earthday.net/resources/2006materials/EarthDay-in-a-Box.aspx

http://www.earthdayny.org/

http://www.kayak.com

And, as always, if you have links you want posted or info you want covered, just toss it into the comment field for all to share.

Thanks for listening and I'll see you out there...

Logo ideas

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Thu, 13 Apr 2006 18:22:00 GMT

This is the photo that's up on iTunes right now - right next to the A Life of Play podcast.

Well, I've enlisted the help of a talented designer to help create a new logo for the show and we're going to put it on all sorts of schwag that we can give away to listeners.

All we need is your participation.

As you know, each show we give away a prize for the best weekend adventure email OR best "hey, you should do this topic" note.

So send your emails in to alifeofplay@gmail.com and listen for your name on the air. Episode 0004 is coming up on April 19!

Until then, see you out there...

Pod the Vote

Wed, 12 Apr 2006 17:07:00 GMT

Addendum - Link to All-In Poker

Mon, 10 Apr 2006 19:44:00 GMT

The link to Brian Mollica's All-in Poker Podcast is:

http://boards.mysportsradio.com/forumdisplay.php?f=45

See you out there...

A Life of Play - 0003 - part 1 of 2

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Mon, 10 Apr 2006 19:41:00 GMT

A great interview with Brian Mollica from the All-In Poker Podcast on MSR (My Sports Radio). We talk about Las Vegas, stand-up comedy and the game of poker.

A Life of Play episode #3 is the first of two episodes with Brian Mollica. Here are the questions we asked Brian. He was a lot of fun to talk to and gave some great tips on having fun in Las Vegas.

What's special about Vegas

Tell me about gambling in Vegas

Talk about the casinos

You do a poker podcast on My Sports Radio...what's the fascination the world has with poker right now

Is it the same game everywhere or are there variations

How easy is it to learn

Where should a person play if they're just starting out

What's the whole thing about online gaming and playing poker online

Tell me about your other life - outside of podcasting - as a comedian

How does entertainment tie into your proximity to Vegas

Do you play the clubs or hotels in Vegas

What other things can people do if they jet down to Vegas for a weekend

How much money will people need

What's the easiest way to get in and out of the city

How often have you come upon bodies - it seems like CSI finds them all the time

Talk for a moment about comps and how 'normal' people could stay for free

What's the story about the $1 buffet

Is Vegas dangerous

Is a weekend long enough

Anything I've missed about enjoying yourself in Vegas

LINKS FOR GETTING YOURSELF TO VEGAS AND LEARNING ABOUT GAMBLING AND POKER

Vegas Map

Vegas

Vegas Online

Poker School

Casinos

Handmade Poker Chips

Learn the Odds

Hey, if you know of any great Las Vegas links or links to poker sites, drop them in the comments section here.

Also, hit me with an email and tell me your best gambling adveture and I might read it on the air.

Send it to alifeofplay.com and include your mailing address so if we choose you as the best adventure, we'll mail you a nifty gift.

See you out there...

NCAA Women's Tournament

Sat, 8 Apr 2006 20:26:00 GMT

Here's a photo of me volunteering for the NCAA Women's Tournament Hoop City in Boston.

Remember, you too can take advantage of volunteering to have great experiences like seeing pro athletes, musical icons and other famous people. Volunteering can also get you access to great vistas and locations around the world.

Write to me at alifeofplay@gmail.com to tell everyone about your best volunteer adventure or your brush with a memorable vista or person.

See you out there...

Episode #3 - Gambling in Las Vegas...part 1

Sat, 8 Apr 2006 17:06:00 GMT

Hey Loyal Listeners. A Life of Play caught up with Brian Mollica - a Las Vegas based comedian and poker podcaster for a 40 minute interview this week.

During the interview we talk about gambling, comedy, secret tips about Las Vegas attractions and just random chatter.

In trying to keep A Life of Play to 30 minutes or less, I've broken the interview into two parts. So, Episode #3 will have the first part of Brian's comments and then in Episode #4 we'll wrap up with Brian and then delve into Earth Day and all the celebrations going on around the world for that event.

Episode #3 will appear on iTunes and here on LibSyn on Wednesday, April 12, 2006. If you have show ideas, comments, questions or neat stories to tell - send them to me at alifeofplay@gmail.com.

AND instead of little trinkets for prizes going forward, we're creating an A Life of Play logo design and will be making T-shirts and other higher-end merchandise for you guys!!

Stay tuned and I'll see you out there...

A Life of Play - 0002

alifeofplay@gmail.com — Wed, 5 Apr 2006 06:16:00 GMT

We explore golf in all its glory. From getting into the game to the Masters to rules and codes, to how you can play golf for free - or at least very cheaply.

A Life of Play makes golf one great sport that's fun in your free time. John Dvorak probably plays golf, but I'm not sure about Mr. Gervais.

The link to the show is below left or you can subscribe using the button on the top right of this Show Notes page. The song credit for A Life of Play - Episode 2 is: Another Day in The City by Classic Tragic Hero.

Show Notes and Links for Episode#2

Wed, 5 Apr 2006 04:14:00 GMT

Holy cow. 50 minutes on golf. Well, it is fun and youâll learn some valuable stuff.

Future episodes will be back down to 30 minutes or as close as I can get to that.

Hereâs what we talked about this week:

Visit my blog â www.bowlofcheese.com

Youâre already here at the show notes, but send me an email about the show alifeofplay@gmail.com

Peter DâAngelo of www.podcastingmacstyle.com has been indispensable in this endeavor.

Golf is a great sport, itâs a lot of fun and here are pointers to get into it.

Reasons to play golf â Social, Fitness, Relaxing/Scenery, Challenge

Social: meet people, make business connections, go to tournaments, call local country clubs to see what their tournament schedule is, play in leagues, get friends involved

Fitness: incorporate Tai Chi or other exercise while waiting for others on the course, carry your bag, walk the course (pick hilly courses), go to the driving range, practice practice practice. ALSO, use other forms of exercise to ensure that youâre in golf shape.

Scenery: Itâs all around you, great golf destinations

http://www.golfdestinationsonline.com/

bring a camera with you, relax and enjoy the outdoors

http://www.hiltonheadisland.org/index.html

http://www.travelersdigest.com/best_golf_courses.htm

The Challenge: play against yourself first, wagering, games within games, sportsmanship, scoring, etiquette, unspoken rules, manners.

Etiquette: dress code, conduct, rules, pointers

http://www.usga.org/playing/rules/rules.html

Great ways to play for free or cheaply:

http://www.lungusa.org/site/pp.asp?c=dvLUK9O0E&b=23657

Tour a new property, get invited by corporate clients, work a tournament, work at a course, stay at places that have free golf, sneak onto the course, play off season, play odd times

Ways to see the pros:

Volunteer at an event, raffle for tickets

http://www.thegolfchannel.com/core.aspx?page=200001

OTHER stuff:

New format

Letter from Tom Walker

Masters History

http://www.masters.org/en_US/index.html

What equipment (balls mostly) will change your game (practically none - just buy for price unless you're a 14 or lower.)

Stuff you need:
Sunblock
Clothing
Shoes
little necessities for your bag
Tricks of travel - put all your dirty clothes in with your bag on the way back.

Why do golf balls have dimples?

http://science.howstuffworks.com/question37.htm

GET A PRIZE FOR WRITING IN:

Next week itâs either a deck of cards or a coffee mug.

alifeofplay@gmail.com

Episode #3 will be either Brian Mollica or a surprise culinary expert to talk coffee and coffee houses.

Thanks for listening.

See you out thereâ

Episode #2 - Getting Excited About Golf

Mon, 3 Apr 2006 01:31:00 GMT

Just a heads-up that episode #2 of A Life of Play will be out this Wednesday (that's the plan), and the topic is:

Getting Excited About Golf

We'll cover cool golf tips for the golfer who wants to get more fun out of the game. Ways to lessen the load on your wallet and still play some amazing courses. The best ways to see the pros. What equipment will help your game the most. And much more.

If you have a golf experience you'd like to share, just send me an email with the details. If I read your email on the podcast, I'll send you a sleeve of golf balls to help you get ready for this season.

See you out there...

Link to Show #1 and notes about Show Notes

Fri, 31 Mar 2006 15:49:00 GMT

Hey listeners. Just wanted to let you know that future show notes will be easier to read as I'll be putting them up in plain text.

Some listeners were also wondering where the link was to download the first episode.
Here you go... Subscribe at iTunes

This will bring you to iTunes where you can subscribe.

Thanks for listening. Send me comments on what you've done this week for fun. And send me your requests for future show topics!

The email is alifeofplay@gmail.com

See you out there...

Only a little obsessive

Fri, 31 Mar 2006 12:48:00 GMT

To know me is to love OCD. Actually, I won't disparage those who have an existence controlled by this odd and sometimes ridiculed condition. I just wanted to note that I SOMETIMES get a little focused on the minutae in my life.

On a side note, if you're wondering if you have OCD tendencies I have made it possible for you to find out. I called a doctor friend of mine and he created - http://psychcentral.com/ocdquiz.htm - a nice little OCD quiz for you to take if you're worried.

Continuing, the focus in my life right now is podcasting. For me it's a developing pursuit that has already seen me create my first podcast-related blog entries and my first episode.

But it's now 7:36AM. I've already had my delightfully prepared eggs and grits. The sun is streaming through the window and I actually saw a - http://www.nps.gov/miss/features/birding/brdwatch/gallery/cardinal.html - Northern Cardinal on a tree outside my living room window. None of this deters me from frequently checking on iTunes Music store to see if they have put my feed up OR from making notes in my http://www.pocketmod.com about upcoming subjects.

I guess there are more important things than a podcast, like providing a - http://www.rabbit.org/fun/net-bunnies.html - random photo for MaoTseKhayteeUnderhill, or making sure the entries on Bowl of Cheese are linked to fun stuff, but I can't think of much more than that.

Looking ahead, I am changing the podcast format and will start with a couple emails, a recap of things I did between podcasts, maybe a news snippet. Then I'll go into the body of the podcast and do the rambling or interview about fun things you can do with your free time. Finally, I'll wrap up with more listener emails and suggestions for upcoming shows. I'll also provide resources, credits and links in this closing segment.

For more info, or to read this entire entry again, go to http://www.bowlofcheese.com.

More to come...

Show Notes and Links for Episode #1

Fri, 31 Mar 2006 05:24:00 GMT

http://www.nemba.org/

New England Mountain Bike Association

http://www.imba.com/

International Mountain Bike Association

http://www.uci.ch/

Union Cycliste Internationale

http://www.railstotrails.org/

National Rails to Trails Conservancy

http://www2.trekbikes.com/

Trek Bicycle Company

http://speedgoat.com/

Speedgoat Bicycles

http://www.globepequot.com/globepequot/index.cfm

Globe Pequot Press

According to pedalinghistory.com, bikes have been around since 1817. They evolved from a two-wheeled straddle mobile to the velocipede (like a tricycle design, but with two wheels instead of three), to the High Wheelers of the late 1800s.

The first bikes that really resemble todayâs machines were created in the 1880s and 1890s. They had pneumatic tires and incorporated a chain driven design.

These days, bikes can have up to 30 gears and can weigh as little as 17 pounds. More likely, your current road bike weighs in the vicinity of 23 pounds and has 27 gears; while your mountain bike weighs around 27 pounds and also has 27 gears.

Mountain bikes also feature suspension in the front and sometimes rear.

If you donât have a bike, I have five words of advice for you. Go to a bike shop.

The staff at the bike shop might be making $7 an hour, but they eat, drink and sleep bikes and can match you with the bike of your dreams a billion times faster and more accurately than the bike and grill assembler at Wal-Mart.

Letâs go over bike buying for a second and then weâll get into bike and body prep for the spring.

Bike buying is easy if you know what you want. Get a pen a paper out (you can pause me for a second while you do so. Please DONâT get out a pen and paper if youâre driving or riding a bike right now).

OK. When buying a bike you need to know the following. **And you need to tell the bike shop guy or girl because they need this information to get you onto the right bike.

1 â How much are you going to ride your new bike?
Donât overestimate your riding habit. Tell the truth. If you try to impress the bike staff by saying youâll ride every day, theyâre going to get you a different bike than if you tell them youâre going to ride once when camping in the middle of the summer and then probably a few times in the spring and a few times in the fall.

2 â Where will you ride the bike?
Paved roads, bike paths, smooth trails in the woods, rocky trails in the woods, down ski slopes. Pick a few, but again, be honest.

3 â What is your level of skill in handling a bike?
If youâre a complete novice, you wonât want a twitchy, racing style bike. If youâve been riding quite a bit and know how to control your bike, youâll want a more responsive bicycle.

4 â Finally, what is your budget?
This is a tricky question because you want to have money left over in your bike budget for a helmet, lock and other accessories. You also might not want to spend your entire budget. So, make it clear to the salesperson that you want to explore the most affordable option in the bikes that he or she recommends. Be aware that most shops have some models that are left over from previous seasons that can be purchased for a discount.

A word about discounts â donât expect much of a discount on a bike. Our society is so focused these days on getting a deal, that some buyers feel gypped if they donât save 20% on a purchase. Well, the margin on bikes is abnormal when compared to other retail outlets.

You typically pay 50% over dealer cost for most retail products and thatâs why stores can offer huge sales that seemingly go on every day of the year. Bike dealers are more stingy. They only offer their shops a mini margin to work with, so your neighborhood bike shop is making very little on the price of a bike.

The places you can negotiate are on accessories, upgraded parts before you pick up the bike, a helmet and even on energy gels and snacks.

If this is all making you nervous and youâre now thinking you might just go buy a pair of sneakers and take up jogging again. Realize that itâs not 1978 and that itâs not that frightening to venture into a bike shop.

If youâre worried, go in and donât even talk to the help. Just tell them youâre just looking and spend about 15 minutes getting familiar with some of the prices and designs of the bikes. Or you can get a skilled bicyclist to go shopping with you. If you donât have a friend who rides, check the Web for resources like New England Mountain Bike Association â NEMBA.org; International Mountain Bike Association, IMBA.org; or the League of American Bicyclists.

You can also check out Craigslist for local biking clubs under the activities section of the site.

Now, hereâs how you get ready for the season. Youâve got your new bike or your old bike and itâs March. Youâve enjoyed a winter full of candied yams and pig meat and your body has acquired some additional space and girth.

Here are the steps. If your bike is brand new, focus on your body. If you bike is older and has a cobweb or two on it, get that to the shop for a seasonal tune-up (should cost around $65) and then concentrate on your body.

etc.

Podcast Image

Thu, 30 Mar 2006 06:40:00 GMT

This is the image that will accompany my podcast - at least for now.

See you out there...

A Life of Play - 0001

Thu, 30 Mar 2006 05:37:00 GMT

We cover Mountain and Road biking for the beginner.

Some comments about purchasing a bike as well as the things to do as you get ready for a new riding season.

We also discuss upcoming episodes and give you the opportunity to help us shape the show the way you want it.

This is all about having fun in your free time.

By the way, the music used in the show was from http://podsafeaudio.com/. The specific two songs in the episode were: Traveller(part 2) by Victor Stellar and Another Day in The City by Classic Tragic Hero.

Upcoming Topics

Thu, 30 Mar 2006 05:25:00 GMT

Shoot me an email at alifeofplay@gmail.com if you have suggestions for other topics than the ones listed here. Also let me know what you think of the podcast so I can make it more enjoyable.

Episode #1 will be up on iTunes shortly. It's about 26 minutes long and I welcome your comments about sound, content, format and music.

Upcoming Topics for A Life of Play.....

Gambling in Las Vegas

Shooting Guns

Kayaking and Surfing in Hawaii

Planning a Trip to Europe

Playing Bocce

Creating the Best Cook-out Ever

Taking a Cruise

Golfing the Carolinas

Completing a Charity Bike Ride

Putting Together a Romantic (or any) Scavenger Hunt

The Joy of Sushi

and definitely more more more.

See you out there...

Let's get the fun started

Tue, 28 Mar 2006 23:12:00 GMT

From travel and outdoor activities to spectator events and simple evenings at the theater or museum, A Life of Play brings out the fun in your free time. Look here for news related to my podcast - about 20 minutes featuring a different fun activity or event each week. And we'll have interviews with experts who can ensure that your fun runs rampant. See you out there...