The Trading Post
Trader Stu
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:
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.durracell.com
All episodes
Best episodes
Seasons
Top 10 The Trading Post Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best The Trading Post episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to The Trading Post for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite The Trading Post episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
My Origin Story
The Trading Post
11/06/24 • 34 min
What if you could transform a hobby into a thriving business during an economic downturn? This episode promises a fascinating journey through the world of career transitions and entrepreneurship. We start by exploring a compelling shift from YouTube to podcasting, driven by the challenges of unpaid work and the chance to dive into the unique niche of trade and barter. With deep roots in a family legacy of entrepreneurship in Michigan, we bring you insights on the evolution of traditional barter systems and the benefits of modern trade exchanges.
Throughout the episode, we weave personal tales of adaptability, like how a high-end DJI Maverick Enterprise drone bought for events found new life in gutter inspections during the 2020 lockdown. This led to ventures in growing microgreens and other entrepreneurial pursuits at farmer's markets. Our diverse career paths are further enriched by experiences in the military as a special ops mechanic and flight engineer, and a pursuit of education at institutions such as Embry-Riddle and Thomas Edison State College. The journey underscores a persistent quest to align passions, skills, and financial expectations.
Finally, we reflect on the unexpected success of selling microgreens and the impactful return to the Metro Trading Association as a sales manager. Drawing inspiration from trading posts of old, we introduce "The Trading Post" podcast, where the goal is to offer practical insights for business owners. This episode also explores the importance of face-to-face interactions in podcasting and the intriguing dynamics between recessions and trading, setting the stage for future conversations that promise to be just as enlightening.
“Whistles In The West” was written, recorded, and produced by Durracell, exclusively for use with Trader Stu’s platform, always rocking the cowboy hat. The track is protected under U.S. Copyright rights to use have been granted specifically to Trader Stu for content and promotional use related to his brand and media presence.
contact:
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.durracell.com
The Michigan Renaissance Festival
Experience the Michigan Renaissance Festival, where history and fantasy collide!
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.
Thanks for listening to The Trading Post Podcast!
Find all our important links—including our LinkedIn, MetroTrading.com, and Michigan Renaissance Festival info—at:
https://linktr.ee/traderstu
Questions or guest suggestions? Email us at [email protected]
© 2025 The Trading Post Podcast. All rights reserved.
What Nobody Tells You About Starting a Podcast for Business
The Trading Post
04/24/25 • 26 min
The podcast downloads quadrupled after experimenting with posting twice weekly, proving that consistency is key to building an audience. Finding the right recording environment is crucial for maintaining authenticity and quality.
• Car recording provides surprisingly good acoustics with all the soft surfaces absorbing sound
• Holding off on podcast marketing during early experimental phase allows freedom to try different approaches
• The vision of a "mobile trading post" concept aligns with modernizing traditional trading practices
• Content creation takes substantial time investment with slow returns - video editing requires 15-60 minutes per finished minute
• 38-42 of the top 50 podcasts don't incorporate video components
• 23 minutes is the optimal podcast length according to Buzzsprout, aligning with average commute times
• AI helps with podcast planning and structure, but authentic human voices remain essential for connection
Whatever you do, be good or be good at it.
“Whistles In The West” was written, recorded, and produced by Durracell, exclusively for use with Trader Stu’s platform, always rocking the cowboy hat. The track is protected under U.S. Copyright rights to use have been granted specifically to Trader Stu for content and promotional use related to his brand and media presence.
contact:
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.durracell.com
The Michigan Renaissance Festival
Experience the Michigan Renaissance Festival, where history and fantasy collide!
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.
Thanks for listening to The Trading Post Podcast!
Find all our important links—including our LinkedIn, MetroTrading.com, and Michigan Renaissance Festival info—at:
https://linktr.ee/traderstu
Questions or guest suggestions? Email us at [email protected]
© 2025 The Trading Post Podcast. All rights reserved.
Origin Story Camtasia and Buzz
The Trading Post
01/23/25 • 33 min
Have you ever considered how trade and barter systems could revolutionize your business strategies? In today's episode, we explore this niche industry, often left in the shadows, and uncover the potential of professional trade exchanges. With a personal background in YouTube content creation and numerous entrepreneurial endeavors, our journey into podcasting unveils the untapped possibilities of leveraging credit systems within businesses, offering more than the mere exchange of goods. Prepare to broaden your perspective on what real trade can achieve in the modern business landscape.
Our family's legacy is rich with entrepreneurial spirit, stretching from the humble beginnings of Satow Drugs in Frankenmuth, Michigan, to bustling eateries and quirky adventures in New York City. This story isn't just about history; it's about the relentless adaptability and resilience that kept me moving forward. Relive the memories of making donuts as a child, bartending at local taverns, and selling comedy tickets on the vibrant streets of NYC. The lessons learned across generations are a testament to the power of innovation and perseverance in business.
Shifting gears, we trace a career path that began with video editing projects and evolved through roles at ADT Security, Metro Trading, and Douglas Dynamics. Each chapter of this journey was marked by personal growth and professional shifts, fueled by a passion for creating engaging content and a readiness to embrace change. As we reflect on the challenges faced and the lessons learned, particularly during economic downturns, we uncover how trading associations can offer stability and growth, providing a safety net when the economy takes a turn. Join us as we unravel these stories, offering insights and strategies that could be the key to your success.
Looking to grow your business? Visit www.metrotrading.com and click “Join MTA” in the top right corner.
Networking Essentials for Entrepreneurs
The Trading Post
04/17/25 • 32 min
Networking remains vital for small businesses even in the digital age, with many entrepreneurs overlooking the power of face-to-face connections that lead to genuine business relationships. Trader Stu shares his comprehensive checklist of networking opportunities that business owners should consider, from traditional organizations to digital platforms and organic encounters.
• Chambers of Commerce offer professional development, guest speakers, and valuable subgroups like Preferred Client Network
• Business Network International (BNI) provides structured weekly meetings but works best for cash-based businesses
• SCORE and entrepreneur organizations connect business owners with experienced mentors at no cost
• LinkedIn offers broad reach while Alignable provides more localized networking focused on specific geographic areas
• Organic networking through everyday interactions often yields better results than formal events
• Alternative networking models like "Networking with Kids" accommodate entrepreneurs with family responsibilities
• Personal branding helps you stand out at networking events and creates conversation starters
• Consistent follow-up transforms business card exchanges into meaningful relationships
Get out there, try something new, get on a platform, attend a local event, and whatever you do, be good or be good at it.
“Whistles In The West” was written, recorded, and produced by Durracell, exclusively for use with Trader Stu’s platform, always rocking the cowboy hat. The track is protected under U.S. Copyright rights to use have been granted specifically to Trader Stu for content and promotional use related to his brand and media presence.
contact:
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.durracell.com
The Michigan Renaissance Festival
Experience the Michigan Renaissance Festival, where history and fantasy collide!
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.
Thanks for listening to The Trading Post Podcast!
Find all our important links—including our LinkedIn, MetroTrading.com, and Michigan Renaissance Festival info—at:
https://linktr.ee/traderstu
Questions or guest suggestions? Email us at [email protected]
© 2025 The Trading Post Podcast. All rights reserved.
Crafting Connections Through Audio
The Trading Post
02/18/25 • 25 min
Season 3 Episode 1 dives into the transformative journey of podcasting, emphasizing the importance of overcoming fear, establishing consistency, and engaging with an audience through storytelling. Listeners learn about structuring podcasts into seasons, leveraging personal experiences for business growth, and the unexpected benefits of sharing their voice.
• Overcoming the fear of sharing your voice
• Utilizing seasons as categories instead of time
• Season 1 will focus on trade and membership in trade groups
• Emphasizing networking in season 2
• Leveraging podcasts for business growth in season 3
• Including camping and prepping gear reviews in season 4
• The importance of authenticity in podcasting
• Practical strategies for improving audience engagement
“Whistles In The West” was written, recorded, and produced by Durracell, exclusively for use with Trader Stu’s platform, always rocking the cowboy hat. The track is protected under U.S. Copyright rights to use have been granted specifically to Trader Stu for content and promotional use related to his brand and media presence.
contact:
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.durracell.com
The Michigan Renaissance Festival
Experience the Michigan Renaissance Festival, where history and fantasy collide!
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.
Thanks for listening to The Trading Post Podcast!
Find all our important links—including our LinkedIn, MetroTrading.com, and Michigan Renaissance Festival info—at:
https://linktr.ee/traderstu
Questions or guest suggestions? Email us at [email protected]
© 2025 The Trading Post Podcast. All rights reserved.
The Unexpected Journey: When Your Podcast Gets Sponsored
The Trading Post
05/01/25 • 9 min
A decade-long dream finally materializes! After years of creating content and navigating the ups and downs of podcasting, the Trading Post podcast has secured its first official sponsorship deal. This unexpected milestone arrived suddenly, catching me off guard despite having uploaded only 11-12 episodes total with sometimes months between releases.
The sponsorship opportunity involves exchanging airtime or mentions for tickets, opening exciting possibilities but also raising numerous questions. I'm now working with a consultant to navigate the business side of content creation—exploring everything from legal disclosures to potential tax implications and whether establishing an LLC makes sense. What started as a passion project about trading and bartering has suddenly transformed into what I jokingly call a "side come"—where opportunities come your way through consistent effort.
Recording challenges remain a fascinating part of my podcasting journey. Despite having access to workspace facilities, my car provides the environment where I feel most authentic and animated. I've experimented with various GarageBand settings from "narrator" to "radio ready" to find the right sound quality. Looking ahead, I'm considering using professional recording spaces for guest interviews while dreaming of an ultimate mobile podcast studio—perhaps a customized RV that embodies the rugged Trading Post brand. The lesson for fellow podcasters? Stay consistent, create content that excites you, and view sponsorships as a welcome bonus rather than the primary goal. Subscribe to follow this exciting new chapter and discover how persistence eventually pays off, even when the path feels slow and unpredictable.
“Whistles In The West” was written, recorded, and produced by Durracell, exclusively for use with Trader Stu’s platform, always rocking the cowboy hat. The track is protected under U.S. Copyright rights to use have been granted specifically to Trader Stu for content and promotional use related to his brand and media presence.
contact:
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.durracell.com
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.
Thanks for listening to The Trading Post Podcast!
Find all our important links—including our LinkedIn, MetroTrading.com, and Michigan Renaissance Festival info—at:
https://linktr.ee/traderstu
Questions or guest suggestions? Email us at [email protected]
© 2025 The Trading Post Podcast. All rights reserved.
From Online to In-Person: Networking in the 21st Century
The Trading Post
02/25/25 • 16 min
Networking goes beyond mere exchanges of business cards; authentic connections can make all the difference. This episode discusses the value of in-person networking and contrasts it with online platforms.
• Importance of real-life interactions over online connections
• A unique roundtable format at networking events enhances engagement
• Alignable, LinkedIn, My Collective Network, BNI: Exploring effective networking platforms
“Whistles In The West” was written, recorded, and produced by Durracell, exclusively for use with Trader Stu’s platform, always rocking the cowboy hat. The track is protected under U.S. Copyright rights to use have been granted specifically to Trader Stu for content and promotional use related to his brand and media presence.
contact:
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.durracell.com
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.
Thanks for listening to The Trading Post Podcast!
Find all our important links—including our LinkedIn, MetroTrading.com, and Michigan Renaissance Festival info—at:
https://linktr.ee/traderstu
Questions or guest suggestions? Email us at [email protected]
© 2025 The Trading Post Podcast. All rights reserved.
The Truth About Starting a Business After Being Laid Off
The Trading Post
05/20/25 • 26 min
Trader Stu explores the challenges of post-layoff entrepreneurship and shares exciting news about being featured in an upcoming apocalyptic survival video game called "Get Prepped."
• Being featured as a trader character in "Get Prepped," an apocalyptic survival video game releasing this winter
• Average gamer today is in their 30s with disposable income - not just teenagers
• The Michigan Renaissance Festival sponsorship and themed weekend events
• Post-layoff entrepreneurship challenges and unrealistic expectations
• Most new business owners after layoffs rely on unemployment benefits for startup capital
• Without proper advertising and marketing budget, new businesses struggle to survive
• The three biggest challenges for post-layoff entrepreneurs: cash flow, marketing, and time management
• Approximately 45% of small busines
“Whistles In The West” was written, recorded, and produced by Durracell, exclusively for use with Trader Stu’s platform, always rocking the cowboy hat. The track is protected under U.S. Copyright rights to use have been granted specifically to Trader Stu for content and promotional use related to his brand and media presence.
contact:
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.durracell.com
The Michigan Renaissance Festival
Experience the Michigan Renaissance Festival, where history and fantasy collide!
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.
Metro Trading AssociationMTA helps businesses improve cash flow, reduce inventory, and increase profits through bartering.
The Michigan Renaissance Festival
Experience the Michigan Renaissance Festival, where history and fantasy collide!
Networking With Kids!
For busy professionals who want to network without sacrificing family time.
First Hill Marketing
Elevating brands with innovative digital marketing strategies and solutions.
Good Neighbor Podcast
Bringing Together Local Businesses & Neighbors of Rochester & Shelby, MI/Greater Detroit Area
Press X 2 Play Games
Survive the apocalypse in "Get Prepped" by Press X2 Play—play now at pressx2play.games!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Thanks for listening to The Trading Post Podcast!
Find all our important links—including our LinkedIn, MetroTrading.com, and Michigan Renaissance Festival info—at:
https://linktr.ee/traderstu
Questions or guest suggestions? Email us at [email protected]
© 2025 The Trading Post Podcast. All rights reserved.
04/29/25 • 24 min
The Trading Post podcast explores how to leverage AI tools like Perplexity to transform business networking follow-ups and stand out from competitors who rarely capitalize on their business card collections. We demonstrate a systematic approach to turn networking connections into meaningful business relationships through strategic AI utilization.
• Using Perplexity AI to research businesses from collected business cards
• Creating personalized follow-up emails with AI that match your authentic speaking tone
• Building custom AI personas to streamline repetitive business explanations
• How AI is changing SEO and potentially reducing direct website traffic
• Strategies for using AI in cold email campaigns while avoiding spam flags
• Challenges of geographic coverage when networking across multiple metropolitan areas
• Using LinkedIn Sales Navigator and other tools to target businesses by location
Whatever you do, be good or be good at it.
“Whistles In The West” was written, recorded, and produced by Durracell, exclusively for use with Trader Stu’s platform, always rocking the cowboy hat. The track is protected under U.S. Copyright rights to use have been granted specifically to Trader Stu for content and promotional use related to his brand and media presence.
contact:
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.durracell.com
The Michigan Renaissance Festival
Experience the Michigan Renaissance Festival, where history and fantasy collide!
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.
Thanks for listening to The Trading Post Podcast!
Find all our important links—including our LinkedIn, MetroTrading.com, and Michigan Renaissance Festival info—at:
https://linktr.ee/traderstu
Questions or guest suggestions? Email us at [email protected]
© 2025 The Trading Post Podcast. All rights reserved.
From Debt to Harvest: Rethinking Property and Side Income
The Trading Post
05/13/25 • 31 min
We explore how to transform your yard from a money drain into an income-generating asset through innovative gardening approaches and direct sales to restaurant chefs.
• Modern properties now cost money rather than generate income, from expensive driveways to high-maintenance lawns
• Microgreens business proved unprofitable at farmers markets due to hidden labor costs and time commitment
• "Cut-and-come-again" garden model allows chefs to harvest their own produce, paying by weight with an honor system
• Raised bed hugelkultur gardening offers an ergonomic solution for growing that repurposes yard waste
• Suburban self-sufficiency isn't realistic, but even small-scale food production can offset rising grocery costs
• Victory gardens provide resilience against supply chain disruptions while keeping you close to home and family
Check out the Michigan Renaissance Festival this summer!
“Whistles In The West” was written, recorded, and produced by Durracell, exclusively for use with Trader Stu’s platform, always rocking the cowboy hat. The track is protected under U.S. Copyright rights to use have been granted specifically to Trader Stu for content and promotional use related to his brand and media presence.
contact:
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.durracell.com
The Michigan Renaissance Festival
Experience the Michigan Renaissance Festival, where history and fantasy collide!
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.
Thanks for listening to The Trading Post Podcast!
Find all our important links—including our LinkedIn, MetroTrading.com, and Michigan Renaissance Festival info—at:
https://linktr.ee/traderstu
Questions or guest suggestions? Email us at [email protected]
© 2025 The Trading Post Podcast. All rights reserved.
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FAQ
How many episodes does The Trading Post have?
The Trading Post currently has 22 episodes available.
What topics does The Trading Post cover?
The podcast is about Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Trade, Podcasts, Small Business, Economics, Business and Networking.
What is the most popular episode on The Trading Post?
The episode title 'Recession-Proof Your Business: Leveraging Trade Groups for Stability and Growth' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on The Trading Post?
The average episode length on The Trading Post is 21 minutes.
How often are episodes of The Trading Post released?
Episodes of The Trading Post are typically released every 7 days, 1 hour.
When was the first episode of The Trading Post?
The first episode of The Trading Post was released on Oct 28, 2024.
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