Welcome to The Self Storage Playbook, brought to you by Atomic Storage Group, a premier full-service self-storage management company dedicated to maximizing your investment while minimizing your headaches. Join your hosts, Rick Beal and Magen Smith, industry veterans and founders of Atomic Storage Group, as they dive deep into the world of self-storage operations and investments. Rick and Magen bring a wealth of experience as keynote speakers and trusted advisors in the industry. You will le ...
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Rick Beal Podcasts
There are a lot of fans out there, but how did they, and more importantly, how can you, turn your passion into something creative? Join us each week as we meet fans who have moved from being consumers to creators. If your interests spring from speculative fiction and related fandoms, join us; whether you’re a model builder, cosplayer, artist, writer, fan-publisher, or club organizer, you’ll find something of interest with The Halfling and the Spaceman!
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We were pleased to have Rick Cutler on! He’s written several short stories for various anthologies. His debut book is scheduled for release in April of 2026! References and Links: https://www.rickcutler.com/By Janet & Roger Carden
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Melissa Olthoff, Author of Rise From Ruin
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25:45We were so excited to have with us Melissa Olthoff. She’s written several series in different genres, as well as being featured in anthologies. Her latest in the Griffin Corps books, Rise from the Ruins, is now available in audio format. References and Links: https://www.melissaolthoff.com/By Janet & Roger Carden
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A Talk with Syrinx Starr, Head of Station Partnership Content for Outworld Fleet Radio
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34:25We were excited to talk with our friend Syrinx Starr! He is the Head of Station Partnership Content and Development at OutWorld Fleet Radio and its On-Air Talent/Mixshow DJ find out what all that means! References and Links: https://outworldfleetradio.online/ https://thetemplesofsyrinx.com/By Janet & Roger Carden
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A Talk with Kacey Ezell, Author of Magelight and Co-Author of The Romanov Rescue
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34:39We were super excited to chat with Kacey Ezell! She’s written several books and is featured in several anthologies. Her book Magelight has recently been released on audio, which we know because we enjoyed listening to it! References and Links: https://kaceyezell.net/By Janet & Roger Carden
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A Talk with Jennifer McCollom, Make Up Artist for Film and Television
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32:31We had a blast talking with Jennifer McCollom!! She is a professional film makeup artist and teacher. She’s worked on films you probably know. If it requires professional makeup or styling, she’s done it! References and Links: https://www.instagram.com/jensfx https://jensfx8.wixsite.com/jensfx/filmBy Janet & Roger Carden
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A Talk with John Van Stry, Author of the Wolfhounds Series
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38:27We’re excited to have with us John Van Stry. John is the author of several military sci/fi series as well as other genres. His latest book, End Game, Wolfhounds - Book 06 was recently released. He’s also recently released a book in another series, Sometimes in the Fall, which is Book Two of The Seasons. References and Links: http://vanstry.net/vans…
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Nick Nethery, Author of Relics of the Fallen
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26:41In our latest episode, we welcomed Nick Nethery! He’s written several short stories for various anthologies of various genres. His debut novel, Relics of the Fallen, was just released in August of 2025. References: https://www.nicknethery.com/By Janet & Roger Carden
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J M Beal, Author of Tales of the Watch-Cat
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35:41We were excited to have J M Beal, author of the series Tales of a Watch-Cat and the Guardian’s Circle series. on our show! Great conversation. References and Links: http://www.jmbeal.com/ https://www.goldenfleecepress.com/ https://www.instagram.com/j.m.beal/By Janet & Roger Carden
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We had the privilege of talking with Becky-Lee Evans. She is a costumer, artist, seamstress, and maker. She’s also the founder of Going Ape Costume. References and Links: https://www.facebook.com/GoingApeCostume https://www.threads.com/@going_ape_costume https://www.twitch.tv/goingapecostume https://www.instagram.com/going_ape_costume/…
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Vinnie Sirna, who cosplays under the handle SirnaCosplay is a cosplayer in the mid-Atlantic region of the US specializing in villains! (Oh My!) He frequents the conventions in the Del-Mar-Va area (Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia) . References and Links: https://www.facebook.com/SirnaCosplay/ https://www.instagram.com/sirnacosplay https://x.com/sir…
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RV & Boat Storage: Market Trends, Site Selection, and Future Outlook with Devin Beasley
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31:00Send us a text In this episode of the Storage Playbook, Rick and Megan welcome their first guest, Devin Beasley, an expert in RV and boat storage. The conversation explores the growing demand for RV and boat storage, market indicators for site selection, and the importance of amenities in attracting customers. They discuss the seasonal trends in th…
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Jonathan Bartholomew, Author of Weird Scenes Inside the Gold Mine
1:06:12
1:06:12
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1:06:12We were happy to have Jonathan Bartholomew back with us! He is one half of the podcast team of the Strange Stories with the Seeker and the Skeptic. He has recently published his first novel, Weird Scenes Inside the Gold Mine. References and Links: https://thelightfromalbemuth.substack.com/ https://www.facebook.com/p/Strange-Stories-with-the-Seeker-…
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We were excited to have Dave Butler on our show! Dave is a speculative fiction writer whose novel Witchy Kingdom won the Dragon Award for Best Alternate History Novel in 2020! He’s also written many other novels. In addition, he became the senior editor at Ark Press in January of 2025. References and Links: https://davidjohnbutler.com/about-dave/…
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Send us a text In this episode, Rick and Megan explore key metrics that matter, the significance of tracking KPIs, and the necessity of actionable data. They highlight the importance of simplicity in data tracking and the need to assign clear responsibilities to team members, ensuring accountability and driving business growth. You will learn- Meas…
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Roger and Janet take a few minutes to talk about changes to the format of "The Halfling and the Spaceman" and announce two new shows coming to YouTube. Applied Game Mastery - Roger explores what it takes to become a legendary TTRPG game master. The Halfling's Book Nook - Janet reviews and comments on books from various nerdy genres. Join us next we…
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Nichole Goodnight, Voice Actor and Podcaster
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39:18We were very excited to talk with Nichole Goodnight. She’s a voice actress that has lent her talents to the NoSleep horror fiction podcast as well as a ton of other horror podcasts and games!By Janet & Roger Carden
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Amhed Suffety, Owner and Designer at Suffety Games
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45:24We had a great time talking with Ahmed Suffety. He’s an Arab American writer, editor, project manager, and designer for tabletop RPGs. His latest work includes developmental editing for the Kingdom of Keshanar. References and Links: https://www.suffety.com/ Merch Promo Code: HalflingSpaceman20By Janet & Roger Carden
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Make Yourself Irrelevant In Your Own Business.
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33:37Send us a text In this episode, Rick and Magen dive into how to build systems so your business doesn’t fall apart without you. They call out the “I’m-in-control” illusion a lot of owners cling to, talk about actually trusting and empowering your team, and stress writing stuff down so people know what to do. The big takeaway: structure is great, but…
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Jennifer Povey, Author of The Council of Worlds Series
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55:16Jennifer Povey has authored the Lost Guardians series. She’s written several short fiction stories published in science fiction/fantasy magazines. She also has several credited works in the RPG industry. References and Links: https://www.jenniferrpovey.com/By Janet & Roger Carden
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Dennis M. Myers, Author of The Automated Empire Series
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58:06Recently, we got to talk with Dennis M Myers. He’s the writer of the Rise of the Automated Empire series and is working on other sci-fi and fantasy novels, and recently, he’s become a tee-shirt designer! Fun conversation! References and Links: https://automatedempire.com/homeBy Janet & Roger Carden
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We were able to talk with Randee Dawn! She’s a journalist who’s also a writer, focusing on speculative fiction across the categories (science fiction, fantasy, and horror). Great conversation! References and Links: https://randeedawn.com/By Janet & Roger Carden
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JC Kang, Author of the Legends of Tivara Series
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44:26We got to talk with JC Kang! JC is a fantasy author, perhaps best known for his award-winning Legends of Tivara series. In addition to being a fantasy writer, he is an acupuncturist, a martial arts instructor, and has been a technical writer. References and Links: https://jckang.dragonstonepress.us/ https://www.instagram.com/jc.kang/ https://www.ti…
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Why Your Business Needs Systems to Grow Part
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27:44Send us a text In this episode, Rick Beal and Magen Smith discuss the critical role of systems in achieving business growth, emphasizing that without proper systems, businesses are likely to fail. They explore the pitfalls of relying too heavily on exceptional employees, the complexities that come with growth, and the importance of establishing pro…
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Alma Alexander, Author of The Were Chronicles
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54:32We were excited to talk with Alma Alexander. A native of Yugoslavia, she’s a fantasy author who’s also published book reviews, travelogues, essays, and poetry. References and Links: https://almaalexander.org/By Janet & Roger Carden
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Delilah S. Dawson, Author of Ravenloft: Heir of Strahd
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49:00We got to talk with Delilah Dawson, live at AtomaCon! Delilah is the author of primarily fantasy and science fiction. She’s also written YA novels, steampunk paranormal romance, and even some comics! References and Links: https://www.whimsydark.com/ Instagram: @DelilahSDawson Blue Sky: @DelilahSDawson Threads: @DelilahSDawson…
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Insights from ISS 2025 – Trends, Tech, and the Future of Self Storage
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10:14Send us a text n this episode, Rick and Magen reflect on their recent experience at the Inside Self Storage (ISS) event. They share personal observations about key industry trends, conversations with peers, and the evolving role of technology in self-storage. While attendance seemed lower than in previous years, Rick and Magen noticed a significant…
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Heather Tracy -- Author of Only a Chapter
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46:05The Spaceman had all the fun this episode talking with Heather Tracy. Heather is the copy editor for the publishing company Space Wizard Science Fantasy, which her husband William Tracy owns. She also owns Melvin’s Travel Adventures, a travel agency specializing in Nerdventures. Her own first book has just been released. References and Links: Only …
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Send us a text Magen and Rick are back, and this time they’re getting straight to it—no fluff, just facts. This episode is all about the numbers driving the self-storage industry right now. You’ll learn where people are moving, how much you can raise rates without losing tenants, and what metrics actually matter when you’re making decisions. This i…
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Catching Up With .. CJ Hosack, Author of The Traveler's Magic
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17:37We were excited to catch up with CJ Hosack. CJ was on our show in April 2024. Now she’s got a new book out. She told us about that and what she’s been doing, including rewriting the whole book!By Janet & Roger Carden
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We were happy to talk with Tara Tai. They are an Asian American writer. Their love of video games and tabletop RPGs has led to their first novel, “Single Player”, which has just come out. References and Links: https://bsky.app/profile/@taratai.com https://www.instagram.com/tarzaparzagagapan https://taratai.com/…
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We had such a fun time talking to Lee Roberts, or as his fans know him “PirateMonkie”. He is a voice artist, streamer, and all-around media generalist!By Janet & Roger Carden
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Send us a text In this episode, we explore how even small price changes can send ripples through customer behavior and what that means for your bottom line. We break down our latest research—from customers' sensitivity to price increases and the magic behind promotional offers like “First Month Free” and “75% Off First Two Months.” Along the way, M…
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By Janet & Roger Carden
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"Evil" Ted Smith, Cosplayer, Fabricator, and SFX Artist
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1:20:31We were super excited to talk with Ted Smith, or Evil Ted, as his fans know him. He’s worked in the movie industry doing visual effects, prop, and model making for 28 years. He worked on many films and television shows that you’ll know. He’s known around the world for his YouTube tutorials teaching cosplayers how to make foam armor and props. Refer…
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We got to talk with author Diane Billas. Diane is an award-winning author of the YA sapphic contemporary romance novel Does Love Always Win? featured in Parents Magazine, and the YA superhero novel, Superficial. How did going to a convention inspire her? References and Links: https://dianebillas.com/ https://x.com/dianebillas https://www.instagram.…
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In Remembrance of Author Howard Andrew Jones
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1:00:39This week, we are saddened to learn of the death of Howard Andrew Jones, a friend of the show. Howard spoke with us multiple times, first telling us about his journey in August 2023. He was the managing editor of the magazine, Tales from the Magician's Skull and the author of several novels, including The Chronicles of Sword and Sand and The Chroni…
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J.R. Steele, Writer, Audio Editor, and Voice Actor
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1:00:18We had such a fun conversation with creator J.R. Steele. J.R. wears many creative hats including animator, audio artist, writer, and actor! We don’t think we even covered it all! References and Links: https://linktr.ee/pen_of_steele https://x.com/pen_of_steele https://www.instagram.com/brushofsteele [email protected] Music in this episode: Flui…
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Tiffany Pettit, Author and Illustrator
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1:01:44It was fun talking with artist and storyteller Tiffany Petitt. She’s done it all… from children's books, video games, apps, and merchandise, to murals and comics. She brings other people's ideas to life through the fun of visual storytelling, References and Links: https://www.tiffanypetitt.com/ Music in this episode: Fluidscape by Kevin MacLeod is …
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Lili J Cosplay, Coplayer and Cosplay Fabricator
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1:03:33We had a great time talking with award-winning cosplayer Lili J Cosplay! We talked about all things cosplay! References and Links: https://www.tiktok.com/@lilijcosplay https://www.instagram.com/lilij_cosplay/ Music in this episode: Fluidscape by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/…
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We had a great conversation with author Kristina Kelly! She is the co-author of the epic fantasy and sci-fi fusing series, the Etherea Cycle including Trials of the Innermost. We also talked poetry and photography! References and Links: https://kristinaseyes.com/ Music in this episode: Fluidscape by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Common…
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We were super excited to have with us Shami Stovall. Shami is an award-winning author of fantasy, sci/fi, and crime thrillers. She’s also a history professor and comic illustrator! References and Links: https://sastovallauthor.com/ http://www.facebook.com/SAStovall Music in this episode: Fluidscape by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Comm…
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Today we're talking with Robert C. Murray, poet and author. Robert is the author of the Titan Run Trilogy, which he describes as "Forward-Looking Science Fiction with an Old-School feel." In addition, Robert is also a podcaster and musician! References and Links: https://titanruntrilogy.space/index.html https://www.lefthandrob.net/ https://www.thre…
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We were honored to talk with Donna Glee Williams, the winner of Manly Wade Wellman award. She is a poet and writer of literary fantasy and science fiction, Including ”The Night Fields”, “Dreamers”, and “The Braided Path”. References and Links: https://www.donnagleewilliams.com/ https://ncsff.org/awards/wellman/ Music in this episode: Fluidscape by …
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We’re excited to have talked with an RPG enthusiast who has been developing the world of Orthane for 30 years, Dave Hadden! Orthane Productions is about to launch its Kickstarter to release the setting and campaign materials. References and Links: https://keshanar.com/ Music in this episode: Fluidscape by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative …
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We had AZ Rozillis with us. She’s a literal rocket scientist, and fantasy/sci author, whose first novel is now out. References and Links: https://www.spacewizardsciencefantasy.com/author/a.z.-rozkillis Music in this episode: Fluidscape by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/license…
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Alex Kingsley, Author, Game Designer, and Stand-Up Comic
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1:03:01We got to have Alex Kingsley with us! Alex is a writer, comedian, and game designer. They are also a co-founder of Strong Branch Productions. Fun conversation! References and Links: https:/alexjkingsley.org https://alexyquest.itch.io/ https://strongbranchproductions.com https://www.spacewizardsciencefantasy.com/book/empress-of-dust Music in this ep…
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We had a great time talking with Sci/Fi Fantasy author and woodworker, Ben Meeks. The Keeper Chronicles is his first series. It’s an urban fantasy series about a were otter! References and Links: https://www.chiselandquill.com/ --- Music in this episode: Fluidscape by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https…
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Bob McGough, Author and Game Designer
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1:08:19We were excited to talk with Bob McGough. Bob is an author, podcaster, and indie tabletop game. He is best known as the author of his ‘Rural’ Urban Fantasy series, the Jubal County Saga. He’s also, in his own words…a hot mess! This was a lot of fun References and Links: https://talesbybob.com/ https://beardedbardinkworks.com/…
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We had a chat with Priya Sridhar, a fantasy/science fiction author who’s written several books and short stories, including her Powered series. Among other topics, she talks about how her cultural heritage as an Indian-American has worked its way into her writing References and Links: https://www.priyajsridhar.com/ https://bsky.app/profile/priyajsr…
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Lisa Hodorovych, Author and Publishing Consultant
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1:07:15We had a great time talking with author Lisa Hodorovych. She mainly writes suspense/thriller type stories with romance and comedy mixed in. She also has her own small publication production company, Quoth the Writer. --- Music in this episode: Fluidscape by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creative…
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