I previously mentioned working with the folks at Hatch.   This is an organization built by entrepreneurs FOR entrepreneurs.

My initial post about starting with Hatch is just a prelude - http://edlives.xanga.com/2015/09/23/start-with-hatch/

Now that I've been working with the folks at Hatch - this is a follow up post for those who were interested in more information...

Unlike other programs which are 'good in theory' - the folks at Hatch really put theory into practice with practical tips and advice.

One of the challenges I have is in regards to time involvement.   Having a kid on the spectrum, along with many home improvement projects to address, along with job hunting and building Autisable - one would say that my time has proven to be a valuable commodity.

The Hatch offices are in downtown Norfolk, about 20+ minutes away.   Even so, I only go there maybe once a week.    But, even without being able to physically be in attendance once a week - I'm still connected online.   Lots of practical videos, advice, networking can be done right from my own home.

One person at Hatch that is helping me out on Autisable has his own business.   He's developed a program to help bakers handle their online orders better and faster.   So while he's working on his own business, he spends some time helping me with mine.... and visa versa.   I'll share more about him later, as he's helping me out making Autisable a multisite and planning.

Now...

They will use any form of technology to help someone in business succeed.   From google hangouts to skype, they will listen to someone share a pitch about their business - and will ask the hard questions right there on the spot.    The thought process is that they'd rather you fail in front of them hundreds of times, so that you can be better prepared to address the tough stuff when you're out in the market place.   (failure is ok... so long as you learn from it)

Great bunch of folks, helping people out with the tough stuff of business.

You can join and work with Hatch wherever you may be located.... and it's already been worth the investment.

For more information, check out this link: http://startwithhatch.com

If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment and let me know!

Xanga Status:  Nothing new to report.

Awhile ago I joined an online production company called HitRECord.  It was founded by Joseph Gordon-Levitt and his brother.

It sounds like an exclusive club or something, but it's not.   Anyone who's interested in creating things and collaborating with others can join.

The premise of the site is very simple - you contribute a RECord (artwork, audio, video, text)... and people remix what you submit into something more....

Some of the content submitted is used by the company for paid projects.   Such as a writing as part of a book that is made for sale... or for segments for their TV show on Pivot.

This site provides an opportunity for people around the world to hone their skills on whatever craft they are interested in.   Personally, I share some of my photos, but I primarily remix writings by RECording voiceovers of what people write.   Sometimes by request...

The picture above shows a check I received from HitRECord.   Its enough to pay for processing fees to get my company started.

It was one Audio file that I submitted due to a request by another user on the site.    The file the user submitted was a poem entitled 'Thank You" and was about her mom.   I was asked to read it by her as a voice over, and the total length of the audio recording I submitted was about minute or so.

Then, someone used just a few seconds of that reading I submitted - and combined it with several other people's contributions...

And lo and behold, a few seconds of my voice is on the series HitRECord on TV (currently seen on Pivot, and is available on Amazon).   Season 2, episode 4 (RE: Fire)

I didn't even know my content was used until I received this check and thank you note in the mail.

Very cool!

Not only that, they also used a portion of the segment for the following promotional video (I'm at about the 10 second mark... "Thank you for that, and everything you've given me")

I'm grateful, and humbled to be a part of the site that has far more talented people than me.

Until later.... back to the grind...

Xanga Status:  Nothing new

I've shared before that eventually Autisable will be moving off of Xanga's servers.   This is more about security concerns then anything else, as Xanga Team will not be managing the updates and security of Autisable.

Now, I spent the better part of yesterday working on Autisable's BETA site.   The above picture is a sneak peek of what the site is moving towards.

The big thing we had to deal with was the Theme (sound familiar?).   With the help of LaNeshe and a few other folks, we settled on a Theme to use.   This theme is considered 'responsive', so it adapts to mobile devices very nicely.... thus not having to invest in a separate mobile site.

Here's a few things we are working on for Autisable, and I think y'all might like it!

1. Autisable is a for profit company, and therefore will be operating via advertisers/sponsorships.   So there will be a few ads placed on the site.
2. Main page will regularly highlight recent blog posts from both regular bloggers (on the site and syndicated)... and non-profits.   When we highlight a blog post, and as we've done in the past... we will attribute the post to the original author... ALONG with their social media outlets.   Unlike on the previous platform, there will be a spot on each article we share that the original author/blog and their social media outlets will be shared as well.
3. Social Media Login.   People will have the option to log in and use the site with either Facebook, Twitter  or Google+. Of course if they aren't social media savvy but want an account, they can just create an account directly on the site.
4. Ability for members of the site to connect with each other.  Comment and reply on posts, groups, and direct message each other.

Of course there's a lot more that we're working on (like weekly podcasts and more episodes of the web series)... but that's just a snippet regarding the site....

Now, the site is in BETA form and isn't ready to be tested yet.   But, we will be seeking out some folks to help test out the site.  So, if you are interested, let me know in the comments section - or private message me via social media.

ok, now back to the grind...

Xanga Status:  Nothing new

As November is now upon us, I realize that this January I will have been officially unemployed for 2 years.

In this time, my Mother passed away, and a lot of home repairs/renovations commenced.

With some travel, along with working with contractors and home projects... along with tag teaming with my Better Half on taking care of Short Stack... I'm sure the quality of my work at a full time Job would have been diminished.  After all, who can focus well with lack of sleep - construction - and dealing with the loss of a family member all hitting you at the same time?

In the past couple of years I've been able to focus more on my family, my home... and getting more of my health back in order.

After all, I am over 340 lbs (at 6'4").   So, I need to get back into shape.   I'm grateful that even at this level of weight I don't need any medication.  I'm just overweight and need to get back in shape.

When I started my previous job over a dozen years ago, I was 260 lbs.   It will be good to get back close to that weight.

But, the job hunt continues - along with working on Autisable.

Most of the major home improvement projects are done.  Just a couple of minor one's remain, along with a lot more painting.

I'm sure there will be some more major projects over the next year - but for now we're content on getting our home back in order.

Autisable is making slow progress, as I've had to devote a lot of time on the homefront.   I'm looking forward to working more with the folks at Hatch as well.  (see previous blog posts regarding Hatch).
Web series episode #2 is going through the editing process, and future episodes will be produced once we find a new host.   Nick moved to California, and we're working with an advertiser/sponsor for some funding.

I'm working with another Autism Dad on creating a podcast series called: "Autisable Dad's: Life With Autism"  - to be launched later this month!  (more on this soon)

Until then, have to get some more stuff done.

In the meantime, I'm putting any Xanga Updates as a Xanga Status at the bottom of my blog posts.  If there is anything major, I'll make specific blog posts about those announcements/issues.

Back to the grind...

Xanga Status:   No change at this time

Good Morning! (or afternoon, evening... wherever and whenever you are reading this...)

Yep, nothing new on the Xanga home front, except the current status quo.

As for Autisable, things are progressing rather nicely - albeit a small delay on a couple of things due to my time spent on another major project... ie... home repairs/improvements.

For the past decade our home has experienced everything from busted windows and holes in walls, to pipe that decided to leak water everwhere.

We've done what we could to maintain things, but this past year we've been spending a lot of time in the world of home improvement.

Got a lot done to our place this year, and while I'm not working a regular full time job, much of my time has also has been spent dealing with contractors and doing work on the home.

From a new roof and gutters, to new windows and trim.  We also had a front porch installed, along with new flooring.

The biggest thing these past couple of weeks for us has been repairing a couple of dozen holes in walls.  And yes, I finally learned the finer points in drywall repair in the process.

For about a decade, we've put off doing repairs on the home...

Like the old saying goes, you either have the time and no money... or have the money but no time.  But beyond that, some of the repairs had to have a hold on them because of Autism meltdowns.

Suffice it to say, with much of the meltdowns under control - and with much time on my hands as of recently... things around the home are now getting done.

I hope this explains much of why I haven't been blogging a lot recently.   Just have to address some serious priorities on the home front.

In regards to the job hunt... the journey still continues.

I've applied to a few companies these past couple of weeks, along with the city.  Even had several interviews.   All kind and wonderful people/businesses/organizations that I'd be honored to be a part of...

The journey continues...

until later, back to the grind.

Hope your week has been going well.

Nothing new in the world of Xanga right now.  Still waiting for a response from John (as we all are)....

But, things are really moving forward with Autisable - as it should be!

I'll post more on the Autisable main page later this week once some things get solidified.

Right now I'm securing outlets for promotional/cross-promotional purposes for some things that are currently in development.  Also finalizing some things with some advertisers/sponsors.

In regards to the main site?  we are working on transitioning Autisable to be OFF of Xanga.com's servers along with getting content flowing on the site like it once did.

For other, more personal news, I've been focused a lot lately on home improvement and repair.... and hunting for employment.

I'm keeping myself busy on all fronts.

until later.... back to the grind...

One of the aspects of starting a business is ensuring that you have what you need throughout its early stages.   Having the tools and resources on hand is one thing.  Having the education and experience on hand to provide insight is something that is highly beneficial if you can get it.

I'm pleased to share that in our local area there is an organization called 'Hatch' based out of Norfolk, VA.   This organization is part of a strong start-up community network in the Hampton Roads community.

One of my co-workers/friends who utilizes Hatch's resources for his own business has been wanting me to be a part of this as well.   And, after some serious research and seeing what they offer - I can't help but be a part of it.

After all, the networking side alone is already helping Autisable in so many ways.   There are people whom I have discussed the vision of what we're doing with Autisable, and they already are providing credible insight on what needs to be done, or what I should do, to make things better.   Some are already willing to work with me on aspects of what I'm doing as well.

Another plus is having countless hours of education material. Not just of basic online methodologies on e-mail campaigns and ad campaigns and content management... but also other PR things to consider.   They also have a strong network of wordpress users and courses to help me learn and make Autisable even better in terms of functionality.

Suffice it to say, it's good to get some serious support for what we're doing on Autisable in a very positive and constructive way.

For more information about Hatch, check out their website: http://startwithhatch.com/

Until later... back to the grind...

Ok, for those interested in the Xanga side of things - a small update.

I've sent John a few e-mails.   A couple of e-mails were of what people had a concern over in regards to the Team not providing us an update.

Now, I know that there's plenty going on with servers and basic site software upgrades, and that they've been doing some research regarding themes...  But I don't know anything beyond that for Xanga at the moment... so if you've been keeping track - there's not a lot of new things to report at the moment.  It's up to John and the Team to provide an update.

I will say that as I'm looking into Autisable being upgraded more, deciding on a framework for your wordpress site is an important decision that must be thought through very carefully.   Your site framework sets the stage on what you can and can't do down the road.  After all, what Xanga is doing with wordpress is a bit more than just a standard blog.  Of the major theme frameworks that are available, there are some security issues that must be addressed.   Some programmers opt to create their own framework rather than take what is more readily available - due to security reasons.   Again, that's just my perspective on the themes issue, and I think that John and the team need to provide us a bit more of an update on this matter for Xanga.

I have also sent John a couple of e-mails about Autisable transitioning away from Xanga proper, and having my own team work on the site.   This has been in discussion with the Xanga team for some time, now it's time to work on the steps to make it happen.

I expressed to John and the team that I'm remaining around with Xanga as long as everyone still wants me around.  Happy to do so.

Well, back to the grind...

Got a couple of small updates from John before 5am this morning via e-mail...

"Was doing an upgrade just now and ran into some issues.  We requested our collocation facility to reboot our hardware, and waiting to hear back."

That was at about 4:48am this morning.   So, if you were trying to get on the site and ran into a small snag early this morning - you now know what happened.

I let John know that we're long over due for an update from the team.

There's some Autisable updates I'll be working on soon.   Most of the updates you can now see on Autisable's main page.  In fact, as we move forward you'll see more autisable updates on Autisable and not as much on this blog.

Beyond that I have to review several hours of video and get the second episodes content over to the editor so it can be released in a decent amount of time.  There's also working on some business end stuff so we can accept payment from advertisers/sponsors.

I plan on talking with John further regarding Xanga as soon as we can knock out a time to talk.

Will keep you posted.

The work continues....

It happens every year in the middle of the August.

Beautiful weather, everyone is outside enjoying that thing called life, and we experience what many call, "The Summer Slow Down."

Being on Xanga and blogging for over a decade I've seen it so often that you can actually plan for it.

It's also a great time to gear things up for the fall and winter.   A good time to relaunch sites and tweak them.  In short, it's a good time to work behind the scenes while getting ready for when everyone is back to the regular year-round routine.

On a personal note, I've been officially unemployed for about a year and a half.   Yep, I don't get paid for doing things on Xanga.  My aim on this blog and being a point person for the community is all about, well, the community.

So, while I'm dealing with home repair, getting Autisable back on track and being the husband and father I need to be.... I'm still trying to keep tabs on Xanga.  I'm also looking for work.

Since it's been awhile since I've made a Xanga related post - here's one to share while we are in the midst of the summer slow down.

Now, there's a lot going on behind the scenes with the Xanga team.   A lot going on with Eugenia and John and Marc.   But it's really not my place to share things that I have no permission or direction in sharing.    Things that are of a personal nature I leave for each of the xanga team members to share.   Things as they relate to Xanga I share after making sure I have it confirmed with John and/or Eugenia.

What I can say is that Eugenia is keeping tabs and following up with e-mails ( at 'help@xanga.net') and is continually helping folks out with their accounts.   I can say that Marc is as he's always been with the Team, a bit off to the side while John and everyone else is working on the servers and addressing themes.   For the longest time it was Marc who I've been in touch with regarding Autisable's mission and direction.... with some consultation with John.

Some have chided the team, or me for that matter, in leading people in the wrong direction and taking peoples money.

Allow me to share something on this note, while we are in the midst of the summer slow down....

Two years ago we were looking at Xanga completely folding.    This means that there would have been absolutely no service for our blogs to remain.   By raising funds as a community, we were able to salvage what remains of Xanga, and provide a platform and servers for the site to continue.    This has still allowed people, even two years later, to retrieve their archives (for free).   It has also allowed anyone with a Xanga account to still either blog on Xanga (for $4 per month) or blog elsewhere.  This could not have been possible if it wasn't for everyone helping.

Several people who have lost their loved ones who blogged on Xanga regularly, are still able to seek access to their loved ones accounts.   This is something one cannot put a price tag on, and providing a sense of peace in that area of a persons life is very important.

Personally, I still see the ROI of doing $4 per month on Xanga compared to a free wordpress site.

Over the next several months I will be shifting my focus onto Autisable a bit more, as is to be expected.

I'm already working with a good team, and we are collaborating with John and the Xanga team on making Autisable it's own company in the near future.    Again, as expected.

That being said, I want to reassure you that I'm still blogging on Xanga, and will still be a community liaison.

I've shared all of our concerns to the Xanga team, specifically to John.   It is up to him and the team to respond accordingly.

As things move forward, I'm sure you know that I will keep everyone informed either way.

So as we get close to the end of summer, let's be hopeful of what is to come.

Until later, back to the grind.