Escape Artists

Escape Pod => About Escape Pod => Topic started by: SFEley on April 09, 2010, 03:29:59 AM

Title: So here's the deal...
Post by: SFEley on April 09, 2010, 03:29:59 AM
Hi all,

This'll be a short message, with a longer one later.  First things first: I am alive.  Family's doing well, including Harper:
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4040/4503923699_7875f0827c_m.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/30334780@N00/4503923699/)

There's been a lot going on, but that's a lousy excuse to be radio silent for this long.  I'm sorry about that.  This doesn't justify it, but it's symptomatic of one thing: I've been managing my energy poorly.  I'm being stretched too thin.

That warrants more explanation, and I'll say more soon.  What I want you to know right now is that I'm going to be resigning from Escape Pod.  This isn't actually a negative, although it probably sounds that way.  It's the right thing to do for myself and it's the right thing to do for the podcast.  There's a plan in the works to bring new energy in -- one or more people who will do better by you than I have lately.

Escape Pod won't be going away.  I really do think the podcast matters.  The stories matter, and the audience matters.  And I'm not going to say you'll never hear my voice again.  But I won't be trying to keep everything on my shoulders.  That worked for a few years, and I felt I needed to keep coming back to it.  But I think you deserve better.  And we're going to work to make sure you get it.

Whew.

So.  How's things with you?

fixed image link
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: DKT on April 09, 2010, 04:03:56 AM
Steve, we all love you and respect you and appreciate all the stories you've given us directly through Escape Pod, and also indirectly through Pseudopod and PodCastle. You've changed a lot of our lives for the better by sharing them with us, and I thank you for it.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Talia on April 09, 2010, 04:15:18 AM
Cute!! :) Glad to hear the family is well.

Sounds like you're making a good call. Thanks for everything you've done.

Look forward to hopefully hearing you on at least some episodes in the future.

Good luck and best wishes with getting your stuff sorted out.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Scattercat on April 09, 2010, 04:16:33 AM
She's adorable.  She deserves your time and attention more than us whiny ingrates.  I mean that.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Heradel on April 09, 2010, 05:00:33 AM
When I joined here I was at the beginning of college, and now I'm a month and change away from graduating. Escape Pod, and obviously later Podcastle, has been part of the background radiation of my existence for the last few years and I'm much enriched for it being there.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Bdoomed on April 09, 2010, 05:15:40 AM
Steve, you have brought me five years of awesome stories.  I came to Escape Pod in my freshman year of high school, when I was 15.  You entertained me all throughout high school and through my first two years of college.  Seeing you leave will be sad, but understandable.  You have given us so much, and not just entertainment, you have given us your time and effort.  I am sure I am speaking for everyone here when I say we are grateful.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Swamp on April 09, 2010, 06:14:10 AM
I am so conflicted about this.  Steve, I completely understand your decision; and I am happy for you in your success at work and within your family, and with the burden that will be lifted from your shoulders.  But on a sentimental level, this makes me sad.  Escape Pod without Steve Eley seems blasphamous, so I hope you will be involved at some level, though obviously less frequent.  You have given me great joy with the powerful engine you brought life to and developed these past years.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: raetsel on April 09, 2010, 09:24:53 AM
I've only been listening to Escape Pod a few short months but it quickly became a highlight of my week and that is due in no small part to your excellent efforts Steve.

Just want to say thanks for all your hard work and I look forward to seeing you pop back now and again in some form or other.

So glad Escape Pod will be continuing and I hope it will be as good as ever, just different without you at the helm.

Thanks again.

Simon x

Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: eytanz on April 09, 2010, 09:42:24 AM
Steve - like everyone else here, I want to thank you for your time and all your effort you put into Escape Pod, and later Escape Artists as a larger company. I know this must have been a hard decision for you, but I trust that you would never have made it if it was not the right one. I hope that what you are feeling now is pride, for the fact that you can leave EP without anyone fearing EP will end shows what a great job you have done and the legacy you leave here.

I hope to hear again from you soon - at the very least, pop by occasionally to share more gorgeous baby pics :)
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Sharon Lewis Jones on April 09, 2010, 10:21:14 AM
I am so glad to hear you are all fine I was getting worried. Harper looks beautiful congratulations I know how much you were looking forward to her arrival.

We will miss you on EP but you absolutely must do what is best for you and your family. I believe whoever you find to take over EP will be superb as I don’t think you would select anyone less. I hope you will still read for us sometimes as you have a lovely reading voice.

Please keep in touch. Next time you come to the UK we should meet up and perhaps finish the Fitzwilliam museum.

Sharon Lewis-Jones
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Blueverie on April 09, 2010, 11:00:08 AM
Hate to see you go.  (really)

but take care of your self first.  I know how that goes.

Good luck and thanks :)
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: gelee on April 09, 2010, 12:12:08 PM
Priorities, man.  Priorities.  I think we're about the same age, and I find, the older I get, the more important it is to understand what's *realy* important to me, and to act accordingly.  I also find that those decisions seem to get harder and harder.  One of the lessons I'm still trying to instill on my daughters is that, sometimes, you have to give up something you like, maybe even love, to take care of something you love even more.
Still, I can't help but think, when I look at what EA has accomplished, that one of your babies is all grown up!  You must be a very proud papa indeed. 
Add mine to the chorus of voices who thanks you for what you've started, and what you've done.  I've learned so much about good fiction, about how and why I enjoy it, and about sharing that experience with others, from the work you've done and from what you've shared with all of us.  Well done, sir.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Atras on April 09, 2010, 12:34:43 PM
Steve,
Congratulations on the newest addition to the family, she is super cute!  It wouldn't surprise me to find that I speak for all of us when I say that you will be missed, but you have to take care of you.  I know everyone with a baby will understand that your time is going to be too spread out for a while.  It's bittersweet, to be sure, but you take care of you, I know you will find (more likely have found) someone capable to take care of Escape Pod.  Don't be a stranger, and have fun!
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: lowky on April 09, 2010, 01:37:15 PM
Best wishes to you and yours Steve.  You will be missed.  Thanks for all you have done for Escape Artists, Podcasting, and Genre Fiction.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: stePH on April 09, 2010, 04:18:46 PM
 :( Going to miss your voice on the 'cast.  But you gotta do what you gotta, and I wish you all the best.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Poppydragon on April 09, 2010, 04:27:51 PM
Have to echo everybody else Steve, going to miss you and no, EP isn't going to be the same, but it'll still be good and it'll still be your baby too. Stay well and stay safe, all love to your family too.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: abouttime on April 09, 2010, 04:42:40 PM
I am happy to hear that Steve Eley is resigning.  I hope he enjoys a successful and happy life with his family and friends.  I have been hoping to see someone else step up to lead Escape Pod for some time.  Best of luck to Steve (if he even reads this). 

(Hopefully this reply will not be deleted.)


mod: Nevermind.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Heradel on April 09, 2010, 05:54:29 PM
I am happy to hear that Steve Eley is resigning.  I hope he enjoys a successful and happy life with his family and friends.  I have been hoping to see someone else step up to lead Escape Pod for some time.  Best of luck to Steve (if he even reads this). 

(Hopefully this reply will not be deleted.)


mod: Nevermind.

I guess I should explain a little bit more. Usually when I feel the need to edit I do the edits, then go to another tab before hitting save and see if I still think I should a few minutes later. Most of the time I realize that it's ok and my initial reaction came out of a place of emotion rather than logic, but in this case I was a bit rushed and didn't do the customary backing away. The test here has always been ad hominem, and while this approaches it it doesn't go over. So on a few minutes reflection and some consultations, the post was put back as it was.

We allow and encourage criticism here. We often criticize. It's hard sometimes to find that line between criticizing the act, creative or otherwise, and the person who acts.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Clutron on April 09, 2010, 06:17:45 PM
Steve - I can honestly say that I do not think ANYONE else but you could have brought Escape Pod from infancy to maturity.  You should be proud of what you have accomplished.  I know other Podcasters have been inspired by you (Norm Sherman of the Drabblecast).  I just wanted to say THANK YOU for all of your hard work.  I truly appreciate the hours that you have put into this project and wish you the best.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: baclaw on April 09, 2010, 08:26:23 PM
Steve,

After listening to your family of podcasts for a while, I registered today to wish you congratulations on the new addition to your life.  As a brand new father of a 3 month old myself, I understand the amount of time and energy that a little one can take up.  Hopefully, you'll be able to fall into a routine which will give you more free time (and I hear that someday you'll get more sleep -- still waiting on that one myself).  I wish you all the best in your future endeavors, whether that brings you back to Escape Artists or not.  Thanks for getting this wonderful addition to my week off the ground.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: MasterThief on April 09, 2010, 10:13:20 PM
A man with his priorities in order.  Live long and prosper.  And narrate a funny story every once in a while for us!
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Guardian Lion on April 10, 2010, 12:23:00 AM
Steve,

I first started listening to all three of the Escape Artists podcasts this past October after fellow podcaster Wil Sanborn started linking some of your works from his feed, http://www.anthrodreams.com/ (http://www.anthrodreams.com/).  The episodes at the time kept me awake and entertained through many, many long road trips. (A Pseudopod episode probably saved my life during one of these, but that's a story for a different time/forum.) Recently I started at the beginning of Escape Pod archive and have been steadily working my way forward on my daily commutes.  Needless to say, I've been enjoying time spent in my car a lot more since. ;D

When I checked the Escape Pod site today and noticed it hadn't updated in a while, I found myself at this thread looking for the reason.  I'm a bit saddened by your decision to leave the podcast.  While I've got a long way to go before I hit the current episodes again, I feel like I've gotten to know you a little just by how much of you you've put into Escape Pod over the years.  It just won't be quite the same without your voice welcoming us to each episode accompanied by the strains of Daikaiju's intro music.  But I also understand and completely support your decision.  I know from first-hand experience how much of one's life a project like this can take up.  So I wish you and your family the best of everything and hope to hear you both back on the podcasts from time to time.  If you tend to your children with the same care you've shown this one, I don't see how they could go wrong.  Cheers!  ;)
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: ancawonka on April 10, 2010, 12:24:59 AM
It's no small feat to create a thing and have it continue and grow without you. The hardest part is handing it off to someone else.  Steve, congratulations on this accomplishment. I hope that Escape Pod will continue - you have some talented and competent people working for you.

Enjoy the additional time with your family that you'll get after you're no longer stressing abou being behind with EP.

Cheers
Anca
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: deflective on April 10, 2010, 12:56:19 AM
you started something exceptional with escape pod & escape artists and at times i've envied you because this (one of the highest compliments a competitive geek can offer someone).  now you've shown self awareness and maturity in deciding what your limits are, i respect you for that. 

best of luck in your future projects and the big seat by the fire will always be waiting for you.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: kibitzer on April 10, 2010, 12:22:48 PM
A very, very tough decision well taken. Respect, Steve.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Hinzelmann on April 10, 2010, 06:56:12 PM
They say a man who can catch a fly with chopsticks can do anything.  So Steve, when did you first catch one? Because what you've done with Escape Pod is nothing short of astonishing. You've nurtured a vibrant SF market from nothing and turned it into a pillar of Podcasting, even of the SF community in general. The entire family of Escape Artists podcasts have introduced me to consistently good stories which have shaped the way I think about storytelling in a major way.

I'll miss hearing your voice on a regular basis. It's just so friendly and energetic. I hope you'll continue to visit conventions, especially Balticon. Good luck with all your endeavours, and thank you.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: kevlar on April 10, 2010, 08:19:39 PM
Well OK. Can't say it was a big surprise. Seems like this has been coming for a while now. Firstly, I would like to say thank you. I have been listening for two years now and I have heard some amazing stories. You have made my hour long commute these past two years much more enjoyable. Your life and well being should be the most important thing so I support your decision fully. I am sorry if this next thing I have to say sounds insensitive or uncaring but, you have let me down. I have supported you for a while now and I don't think you have treated me properly. Please invest in a mass email system. People who donate to your site on a regular basis should be informed as to the status of this podcast.  Sorry Steve, I know you have made great personal sacrifices to make this podcast what it is. I hope things are well with you now and best of luck in your future endeavors.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: oddpod on April 10, 2010, 11:29:46 PM
thanks for everything steve,
you have opened a  galexy of new worlds to me.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: madmatt on April 11, 2010, 01:39:18 AM
Wow, we have baby number two along in a few months also and I've been told I'm in for a shock, and that you aren't a real father until you have two etc.  Now I'm really worried!

Seriously though, family is number one!  And thank you so much for what you have done.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Thomas on April 12, 2010, 12:29:17 AM

I have not commented here before, never felt the need. until now.

Well, Steve, I have enjoyed Escapepod immensely since I started listening during its' second year. Escapepod was the first anthology podcast I subscribed to. Thanks to you and Escapepod, I have been introduced to Sigler, Hutchins, and a world of other podcast fiction authors. Although reluctantly, I also started listening to Psuedopod about the time Mur gave up the reigns to Alisdair (whom I adore). Been very happy with my decision to subscribe there. I am also pleased with the host of authors Psuedopod has introduced me too. I am and will always be a fan of yours, Steve Ely, from the stories you brought to us, to the little glimpses of your life (totally miss the updates on how your son has changed your life, those were most insightful and reminded me of my own revelations with my own children, my youngest just turned 15). Your decision to step down from Escapepod is a difficult one, but totally understandable. You will be missed. Know that you are loved.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: davedoty on April 12, 2010, 02:31:28 AM
I'm glad you're making choices for the best of your family.  I'm sure the vast majority of us will be happy with whoever replaces you on EP, and we'll all accept whatever time frame is required to make those changes happen.

All of which I write to make clear that the following question (to whoever can answer it) is meant only as a request for clarification, NOT an attempt to be pushy for new content...

Does this mean we should view Escape Pod as on hiatus until a replacement is found and in place, or is there a hope that we may see stories, even if at a reduced pace, resume at some point during the interim?  I'm fine with it is the situation forces it to be the latter, but I must confess I'll find it a little easier to be patient if I already know the short-term resumption isn't going to happen.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: SFEley on April 12, 2010, 03:23:10 AM
Does this mean we should view Escape Pod as on hiatus until a replacement is found and in place, or is there a hope that we may see stories, even if at a reduced pace, resume at some point during the interim?

Great question.  I can't give you a solid "This is The Plan" answer because there isn't one yet; but I think it'll depend at least in part on how long it takes to get a new team up and running.  Good progress was made this weekend -- nothing's confirmed enough yet to give any names, but when we can, I think it'll be names familiar to the EP community. 

At the very least I owe a metacast pretty damn soon.  Beyond that -- well, if it looks like getting a new ball rolling would take a couple months or something, then yes, I'll push some stories out from inventory so that the feed doesn't get eaten by a grue.  If the timeframe's more like 2-3 weeks, then we may use that inventory to speed the transition instead. 

I wish I could be more specific than that, but the truth is I just don't know enough right now.  What I can tell you is that I'm involved and hands-on again -- and that I'm reading this thread, so feel free to keep asking questions like this.  >8->
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: SFEley on April 12, 2010, 03:27:13 AM
Oh -- and also, thanks to all of you for the well-wishes and kind words.  You all rock.

Harper thinks you rock too.  See?

(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4062/4504555278_1232946f84.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/30334780@N00/4504555278/)

Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: alllie on April 12, 2010, 12:55:17 PM
Since I don't have the "babies are cute" gene all I can say is NO NO NO.

You know that will grow up to be, don't you. And you know what many of them are like.

I just wish I could get you one of those MacArthur Foundation Genius Grants so you didn't have to make this choice.

And Anna needs to sue that employer of hers. Firing someone two weeks before they are due to give birth. That sounds bogus to me. Capitalist.

But thanks for the memories. Will miss you a lot.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: lowky on April 12, 2010, 02:51:24 PM
Oh -- and also, thanks to all of you for the well-wishes and kind words.  You all rock.

Harper thinks you rock too.  See?


The 'Solid' from Harper and Harper herself also rock. (You too, but you didn't post a picture of yourself Steve).
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: SFEley on April 12, 2010, 08:49:19 PM
Pictures of me:
http://www.okcupid.com/profile/SFEley/pictures (http://www.okcupid.com/profile/SFEley/pictures)
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: SFEley on April 12, 2010, 09:05:49 PM
And Anna needs to sue that employer of hers. Firing someone two weeks before they are due to give birth. That sounds bogus to me. Capitalist.

Believe me, we looked into it.  A lot of people had the same reaction.  I don't think there's a case there though, because A.) they laid off other people the same day, and B.) there's no evidence (nor any way we can think of to collect evidence) that whomever made this decision back at the corporate office even knew she was pregnant.

Also: if laying her off just before maternity leave was supposed to be an Evil Capitalist money-saving move, it was a stupid one.  They paid her 10 weeks of severance plus unused vacation and some other minor benefits.  Her maternity leave would have used up her vacation and then come out of short-term disability, which is essentially an insurance policy.  They lost money on that maneuver.

It was definitely heartless, and Anna reports from lunches with her former coworkers that morale there has effectively dropped to subzero and everyone's getting their resumés out.  Laying off the pregnant woman who was good at her job is a pretty clear statement that the company doesn't give a crap about any of them.  But that's par for the course in large enterprises.  The timing almost certainly didn't come from strategic malice.  Just a typical lack of beneficence.





Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: jrderego on April 12, 2010, 09:23:09 PM
And Anna needs to sue that employer of hers. Firing someone two weeks before they are due to give birth. That sounds bogus to me. Capitalist.

Believe me, we looked into it.  A lot of people had the same reaction.  I don't think there's a case there though, because A.) they laid off other people the same day, and B.) there's no evidence (nor any way we can think of to collect evidence) that whomever made this decision back at the corporate office even knew she was pregnant.

Also: if laying her off just before maternity leave was supposed to be an Evil Capitalist money-saving move, it was a stupid one.  They paid her 10 weeks of severance plus unused vacation and some other minor benefits.  Her maternity leave would have used up her vacation and then come out of short-term disability, which is essentially an insurance policy.  They lost money on that maneuver.

It was definitely heartless, and Anna reports from lunches with her former coworkers that morale there has effectively dropped to subzero and everyone's getting their resumés out.  Laying off the pregnant woman who was good at her job is a pretty clear statement that the company doesn't give a crap about any of them.  But that's par for the course in large enterprises.  The timing almost certainly didn't come from strategic malice.  Just a typical lack of beneficence.


You still might want to check if they violated the Family Medical Leave Act. If Anna had put in a request for FMLA time following the birth of Harper and they cut her anyway, it's potentially illegal and often treated as a human rights issue.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: lowky on April 12, 2010, 10:19:22 PM
Pictures of me:
http://www.okcupid.com/profile/SFEley/pictures (http://www.okcupid.com/profile/SFEley/pictures)


While there is no deny you rock, I think we need a "Solid" pose from you for proper comparison to Harper
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: lorax on April 13, 2010, 07:24:53 AM
 Steve, it is sad to see you go! But, having just had our second child in october, it is understandable. My Children bring great joy into my life, but they don't leave alot of time for the extras. It is good to see a dad choosing to put his family first.    If I remeber right I have been listening to your show since episode 118 the veteran, and have greatly enjoyed the show since.   
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: washer on April 13, 2010, 12:14:29 PM
Hey Steve, I hope everything works out and that I still get to hear you do an intro every now and again.  I got very bored one night and went looking to read all the Hugo-award winning stories I could find.  I found a lot of them in text form, and then I found that I had to listen to your podcast in order to hear Ted Chiang's "Exhalation."  I grumbled, and downloaded the episode, and tuned in at work that night when I rather would've listened to music.  That was almost precisely a year ago, and now I find that I listen to little else besides podcasts.  I came into this game late, but you really made a difference in my life.  Work used to be a slog, and now I look forward to being able to listen to my podcasts there.

I hope you and your wife and your two beautiful children are doing great, and that you all continue on in blissful fashion in perpetuity.

On a side note, the OKCupid link threw me.  36?  OK, sure.  Male?  Assuredly.  Polyamorous & bisexual?  Hey, what now?!  When I saw you with a beautiful lady on either arm at Dragon-Con, I said to myself, "This man is the master.  I must become the student."
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Unblinking on April 13, 2010, 01:58:08 PM
Hey Steve,
I'm both sad and relieved to hear your decision. 

Sad because I've spent the last 4 months listening to Escape Pod's backlog, and I'm pretty sure your voice is oozing out of my ears.  Escape Pod without Eley will be decidedly weird.  I'll be very curious who steps up to take the reins.  Hopefully they have a similar taste in stories as you have, because EP has been the SF publication, bar none, that most consistently wows me with the stories it runs.  Even a lot of the stories run in the Big Three I find rather boring, and though I've had a few episodes of EP that I've skipped, and that's no surprise because I have grown very impatient when it comes to fiction I'm not enjoying, the ratio of skipped:enjoyed is the lowest here.

And I'm relieved because it sounds like this is really the best choice for you.  Taking care of yourself and your family has to take priority, and I'm glad that you're taking steps to hand the podcast off to other capable hands.  I don't think that anyone else could've started this venture as well as you did, but now that it's got a solid audience, and really kickass authors sending stories in, I believe that someone else can take over and do great things with it as well.

Escape Artists' 'casts will always be special to me because my sale to Pseudopod was my very first fiction sale, after years of trying.  I'd been despairing "What if I NEVER make a sale?" and had started to wonder if I should just take up pottery or something instead to satisfy my urge to create.  The acceptance email from Ben Phillips was such a great moment, and you're one of the major factors responsible for setting the events in motion that made that happen by the creation of Escape Pod in the first place.  Once I made that first sale, a few others have followed suit, and it feels like that first one was what really got the rest going.

I'd been intending to write up some fan mail to send your way to say all that, but I was waiting until I finished listening to the backlog and had written up my Best of Escape Pod post.  Since you've announced your departure this is as good a time as any.  You've made my (self-appointed) task of picking Escape Pod's top 10 extremely difficult.  I could easily pick a top 50 that I could be proud of, and it's going to be tough to narrow it down to a mere 10.  :)

I'd like to meet you at a con sometime as well, so I hope you'll still be traveling for those from time to time.  I haven't actually made it to that many cons because, well, because I'm a cheap bastard.  But I'm trying to get out there more and see the con scene, and it'd be cool to have lunch with you or something. 

Anyway, keep in touch and take care!
,David Steffen
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: SoSouthern on April 13, 2010, 02:45:41 PM
Steve,
First of all, I'm glad to hear that you and your family are doing well. You got me worried!
Second, I've enjoyed every minute of what you've done with Escape Pod and its siblings. I'd love to be able to listen to your creation forever, but understand that you have a life ;D and that pet projects do tend to grow heavy on their creator's shoulders after such a long time.

Also, we are a bunch of self centered, pompous, know-it-all bitches who can't agree on a comma, so good riddance  :D

Do drop by to update us on whatever you're doing, please? I've enjoyed your "personal stories" as much as the literary content.

All the best

Cecilia

Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: alllie on April 13, 2010, 03:14:09 PM
Escape Pod without Eley will be decidedly weird.  I'll be very curious who steps up to take the reins.  Hopefully they have a similar taste in stories as you have, because EP has been the SF publication, bar none, that most consistently wows me with the stories it runs. 

Ditto on that. While I enjoy Steve's narrations and intros etc what I enjoy most is his choices. I've enjoyed plenty of escapepod stories that someone else narrated but as long as Steve was the executive editor I found I liked the choices, almost always.

I wish that Steve had the time just to okay the final stories, not to narrate them or do the audio work, just to put his seal of approval on the choices. Like when Jeremy was doing it, he seemed like a great guy, very enjoyable, but I found I didn't enjoy the stories he choose as much as I enjoyed the stories that Steve chose.

Oh, well, life movies on.

Best wish forever, Steve.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: oyetkin on April 13, 2010, 05:17:31 PM
Steve,

I wish you the best of luck with the next phase of your life, and (selfishly) hope that you find someone soon to fill your shoes! :) 

The podcast has made my daily commute bearable and gotten me back into Sci-Fi short stories. 

Oğuz
P.S. I'm also impressed that you guys were able to maintain such high audio quality compared to the rest of what's out there...
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: stePH on April 13, 2010, 08:39:59 PM
On a side note, the OKCupid link threw me.  36?  OK, sure.  Male?  Assuredly.  Polyamorous & bisexual?  Hey, what now?!  When I saw you with a beautiful lady on either arm at Dragon-Con, I said to myself, "This man is the master.  I must become the student."

 :D ;D :D ;D :D ;D :D ;D :D ;D :D ;D :D ;D :D ;D :D ;D

I'm mostly going to miss Eley's unforced, natural-sounding style as host.  Not everybody can pull that off, though Alasdair on PP is getting there.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Ray Shaw on April 13, 2010, 10:47:01 PM
I've listened to all the Escape Pod episodes, and you have brought much  to my life through your selection of works and your comments and thoughts during your podcasts.  I wish you the best of fortune with your family and know that you are doing the right thing.  Technology careers often demand a lot of your time.  My daughter's wedding was a short while ago and she has moved from our home to live in the U.K. with her new husband (a fantastic young man and his whole family are Science Fiction fans!). I'm delighted she has found such a perfect partner.   But the 22 years we had her here have been way too short, and I regret every minute I've had to spend away from her, my other daughter and my wife due to the demands of work.  Enjoy more time with your family.   Unlike work, life is not going to wait for you to find the time for it.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Teriblkev on April 13, 2010, 11:05:47 PM
Nightfall was bundled into some freeware I downloaded,it introduced me to Escape Pod  and Steve Eley;it reminded me of my love for short S.F. and got me looking into other podcasts,now that my addiction full blown,you desert me.Putting your own family before my selfish needs after supplying my first fix free.Still,forgiveness may come someday,as for now well ...time will tell.   
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Ben Phillips on April 14, 2010, 02:11:26 AM
Nightfall was bundled into some freeware I downloaded,it introduced me to Escape Pod  and Steve Eley;it reminded me of my love for short S.F. and got me looking into other podcasts,now that my addiction full blown,you desert me.Putting your own family before my selfish needs after supplying my first fix free.Still,forgiveness may come someday,as for now well ...time will tell.   

Just out of curiosity, what software was that?  (CC licensing means no one has to notify us about stuff like that, and this is the first I've heard of it.)
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: wb9rro on April 14, 2010, 02:21:51 AM
Steve,
Congrat's on the family. I can only echo that you will be missed. I wish the best for you and your family. They grow up way too fast. Enjoy the journey! Maybe pop back with a geek dad intro once in awhile..
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: eightpercent on April 14, 2010, 12:06:36 PM
I only discovered Escape Pod last October and i have been frantically trying to go through them all before i got involved in any posts. I didn't want to miss anything before i got up to date
But i feel like i have to post now.
I'm sure nobody will begudge you the time off to enjoy your expanded family. I can only imagine what a new baby and a small son is like at night(!)
Take your time before coming back but do come back. As a visually impaired bibliophile i appreciate more than you could ever know what the podcasting community does, especially as i have a two hour each way commute to work.
The next time i post will pobably be next year as i am only up to "How I mounted Goldie..." and i still have Pseudopod and Podcastle to get through!

PS, sorry if this is a bit rambling and disjointed but it's my first time, be gentle with me.
 :)
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: skysadventure on April 14, 2010, 12:47:36 PM
Hi Steve,

Thank you so much for all you have put in - the heart comes through so clearly in every podcast.  Juggling many demands is hard, and I'm sure it was not an easy decision to make, so congratulations on putting family and adorable little people first.  I'm a fairly new listener, and I've quickly gone back and downloaded the whole lot, and am slowly but very very happily working my way back to the present, with many WOW moments along the way. I'm sure the next person at the helm will take the pod in interesting new directions - you have set a high standard and left a great legacy! 

I'll miss your intros and listening out for how you make the creative commons speil interesting.  Today I listened to EP47, and the poetry version was fun!!

You have made me think about life, love, the planet, aliens and every thing in between, and given much joy - saying thanks seems inadequate, but its the word we have.
THANKS!
Sky
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: G. T. Blake on April 15, 2010, 03:52:40 PM
Steve-
This thread has made me finally break down and register so I could reply. That's how important this is to me. I have always had a difficult time following and posting to forums.
That said... On with the show.

You sir, are a class act.
Your initial excursion into the dark wilderness of podcasting has revolutionised the arena.
You started out with one audio fiction podcast and now have three, each with massive followings.
Each week your three children bring us, literally, the best in Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror, and I bless you for that.
You have found stories which have made me uncomfortable. Some made me cry. Heck, you publish a lot of Mike Resnik, so I did a lot of crying. Escape Pod brought me the universe of Union Blues. It has brought me to the heights of the future and into the depths of dystopia.
In short: you, Sir, have created a Juggernaut.

This is a good thing.

Take your time with the re-organisation, for you have created something with a life of its own. Escape Pod will continue to thrive and grow as long as Escape Artists follows the ideals you set forth originally with your first broadcast. Hosts and editors will come and go. New writers will submit their work. New listeners will subscribe.
PseudoPod and Pod Castle have proven this. As long as you remain, whether actively guiding Escape Pod, or watching quietly from the sidelines, Your creation will still bring us challenging, entertaining and provocative fiction.

I thank you, I thank your staff and I thank everyone who has been, is and will be involved with the production of all the Escape Artist 'casts. I will wait patiently, yet on tenterhooks, for the next edition of Escape Pod. It may take a month. It may take a year, or more. Either way, I have hope for I know the level of quality you inspire in other people.

As for the future, I leave you with this two word mantra oft-quoted by J. Michael Straczynski:
"Faith manages."

--G. T. Blake
(Whose long-winded posts are another reason he usually avoids forums...)
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Heradel on April 15, 2010, 04:02:29 PM
--G. T. Blake
(Whose long-winded posts are another reason he usually avoids forums...)

That's barely winded for these parts.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: litarvan66 on April 15, 2010, 05:20:50 PM
Ok, I am not really in the habit of speaking in online forums- I'm pretty much a lurker- this time, however, I felt I had to say something.  Great job Steve!  I am going to miss you, but as a family man myself kudos to you for your choice.
  Escape pod was the first podcast that I started listening to on a regular basis, and actually eagerly anticipated the coming episodes.  You really created something great.  Thank you.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: stePH on April 15, 2010, 09:05:17 PM
--G. T. Blake
(Whose long-winded posts are another reason he usually avoids forums...)

That's barely winded for these parts.

YA SRSLY, for some around here, that's hardly even a pre-speech clearing of the throat  :D
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Teriblkev on April 16, 2010, 03:12:15 AM
It was a zipped folder of PPC freeware I downloaded from Rapidshare.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: alllie on April 16, 2010, 05:47:45 PM
Future Steve Ealy: Everytime I think I'm out, they pull me back in!

We're not letting you leave. You will miss us. And we'll force you back. Wait and see.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Korjim on April 18, 2010, 02:43:43 AM
Steve,
  I am living overseas in Korea and your voice has many times kept me sane in an insane world.  I never joined a discussion before but I had to join this to tell you thanks for what you have created and started and I feel as though I am losing a friend by not hearing your voice these days.  I hope to hear you again in the future at least as a guest host.  Best luck in the future and keep us informed of any new books or the like so we can keep supporting you and following you in your life away from the mighty, magnificent and altogether awesome Escape Pod and its equally awesome sister podcasts.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Swamp on April 18, 2010, 03:06:09 AM
I'm just moving this message from enigmatica to the proper place:

Quote from: enigmatica
As much as I can't imagine EA without SE at the helm, I have to admit I admire your decision. I must echo the earlier sentiment that I hope to hear you introduce and/or narrate on occasion.   I trust you to find shoulders worthy of the mantle you've woven and sewn together here.  And, I am happy knowing that two more children in this world of absent parenting are facing a life filled with parents who are devoted to them. :)
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: sandbagr on April 18, 2010, 04:24:43 AM
>>First things first: I am alive.  Family's doing well, including Harper:<<

That's all that matters and all I was worried about.   Don't sweat the small stuff.

Love to you and Anna and the kids.

Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: nite krawler on April 18, 2010, 09:01:39 AM
Where's the clipboard that I can sign up on for editing, producing, whatever... Perhaps with our energy's combined we can squeeze out a podcast or two. That said, Congrats Steve.  We wish you all the best.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Sandym on April 18, 2010, 09:54:17 AM
Steve,

You are doing the right thing if that is how you feel. But don't be a stranger, you have real talent both as a narrator and an author and we will miss you.

Great baby photo!

SANDY
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: kagillogly on April 18, 2010, 07:35:19 PM
Wow.  I figured something was up, since there'd been no EscapePods in (what felt to me) ages!

So glad to hear the family is newly expanded and healthy.

I'll never forget that first moment I put on the headphones and heard a Steve Ely story.  I was working at two universities; one on the South Side of Chicago, a long commute on the subway.  Through you, Steve, I got reconnected to sci fi literature - and I was truly introduced to this new media of podcasting.

And I have to say tht for years I was disappointed by other podcasts' production quality because I was spoiled by yours.  For instance, I dropped the New York Times podcasts because their sound quality was so muddy!  The American Anthropological Association could sure learn from you.  You are an artist of production as well as of writing and selecting literature.

I'll miss you something awful.  But you're doing the right thing.

Much love, from a lurker!  (Although we have some friends in common, so I hope to meet you in RL some day).
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: acpracht on April 18, 2010, 10:24:33 PM
Steve, congratulations on the new one and we all understand your decision, even if we're extremely saddened by it.

To show my support for all that you and the Escape Pod team have done for all us Sci Fi addicts over the years, I'm making my first (albeit smaller than I would like) donation today.

This is still my favorite podcast, regardless of how long it's been since the last episode.

Good luck on getting everything transitioned over.

-Adam
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Rain on April 19, 2010, 10:21:16 AM
Going to be strange having Escape Pod with no Steve but i am sure we will manage :)

I just hope you get a single host, i think one of the things that has hurt Podcastle is that there are/were so many co-hosts.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: cyberkrime on April 19, 2010, 03:23:33 PM
Steve:

Things are fine with me, thanks for asking.  Frankly I'm VERY RELIEVED to hear that all is well with you.  When it dawned on me how long it's been since there was a new EP my first thought was that something was wrong, which is what lead me to the forums.  Well, if I had an adorable bouncing baby like the little one in the pic, I'd be overwhelmed too.  I'll be sorry as hell to see you go, but speaking as someone who's raised his kids to (at least the semblance) of adulthood, I have to commend you.  You've made a tough call.  I commend you on being willing to let go (for a while, not forever, I hope) for the good of all.  That can't have been easy. 
Let me just say a simple thank you.  EP has added something very positive to my life: A simple way to enjoy the SF that I've always loved even though taking time read (or even find) good SF isn't always on the menu for me. 
An episode of EP is like a ticket back to those Halcyon days of watching re-runs of Star Trek TOS on weekdays after school while my mother cooked dinner.   (She claims that though she's never seen an episode in her life, she's got them all committed to memory because she could hear the tv in the next room.)
Escape pod is aptly named because it does give me the ability to escape for half an hour or so and be that 8 year old glued to the TV, wondering if some day, maybe, could I possibly....?

That's a true gift that you've given me, and every EP listener.  Very few people people in this life contribute so much to the lives of strangers. 
Again, I thank you.   My best to you, your family, and everyone as Escape Artists.
Cyberkrime
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Gamercow on April 19, 2010, 08:32:37 PM
Not to rain on the happy parade, but could someone PLEASE put a mention of this on the front page of escapepod.org, even if its just a link to this thread?  It wouldn't take that long.  "Escape Pod Update:  Look here"  Surely if Steve has enough time to read and reply to this thread, he can do that, or at the VERY least, delegate to someone. 
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Bdoomed on April 20, 2010, 03:03:54 AM
Not to rain on the happy parade, but could someone PLEASE put a mention of this on the front page of escapepod.org, even if its just a link to this thread?  It wouldn't take that long.  "Escape Pod Update:  Look here"  Surely if Steve has enough time to read and reply to this thread, he can do that, or at the VERY least, delegate to someone. 
Hey!  We were having a nice parade here, and now we're all wet!  For shame!
Joking aside, I agree that something should be posted where more will see.  This forum is secondhand to the website for most people I'm assuming.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Mister Freign on April 20, 2010, 03:47:35 AM
Sort of cools enthusiasm creating a podcast - the podcast with the most gravitas in arguably the most important and supported genre of fiction in the medium ....... doesn't float at all?  Sigh.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: abouttime on April 20, 2010, 04:51:40 AM
Sort of cools enthusiasm creating a podcast - the podcast with the most gravitas in arguably the most important and supported genre of fiction in the medium ....... doesn't float at all?  Sigh.

There's a podcast?  What's that? To what podcast are you referring?  Escape Pod?  It is on hiatus.  I just check in here to read the fanmail.  Pitty that no one has updated the website.  ::: raises hand::: I have setup wordpress blogs and would be happy to volunteer to post an update?  Come on folks.... if you can twitter and post to forums you can type a sentence in wordpress.  I look at the Feb 28, 2010 and think "Every day that goes by this is slipping closer and closer to abdonment."
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: WhiteShadow on April 20, 2010, 05:54:44 AM
Live your life free of us nipping at your heels and know that you set great things in motion, changed many lives, donated many hours of entertainment, and did more than your part to change the world.

Here's to you, a hero of our generation.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Swamp on April 20, 2010, 06:02:16 AM
Thanks for all of your sincere concern about the hiatus announcement on the blog.  The announcement is long overdue.  However, news will be announced this week regarding how Escape Pod will be moving forward.  Since these developments will supercede the hiatus announcement, it is probably a moot issue at this point.

Steve announced his resignation 11 days ago.  Many details have had to be worked out (and still will be), but the entire Escape Artists team is working to make this transition as smooth as possible.  I understand members of the audience are restless, and that is appreciated, but please bear with us as we work through it.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: odyssehiss on April 22, 2010, 04:26:29 AM
Steve,

Like many others, I have been lurking and have not posted much.  However, I wanted to thank you for your vision and your persistence with escape pod.  This little cast has transformed the way I live my life.  I can't say thank you enough - I already donate monthly!  I know many who struggle with the big questions in life, meaning and al that.  You should feel confident that you have made a huge impact on popular culture.  Escape pod is a game changer that is really a cultural meme.  You have created something wonderful.  Its totally cool to be the inventor and hand the business side over to others (Meg Whitman?).  Thanks again and I hope to meet you some day at some con some place.  You are truly one of my heros.

 
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: startrek.steve on April 22, 2010, 08:18:00 AM
Steve,
So sorry to hear your news, Ive listened to every single episode from EP01 and Ive laughed, cried and hurled (well maybe not the last one!) are all the Podcasts in limbo? or just EP? Good luck and love to your family, tough choice but you've got to put your family first. We're gonna miss you long time. Come back when you can spare an hour or two. There can  be only one......

Steve
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Swamp on April 22, 2010, 02:44:24 PM
are all the Podcasts in limbo? or just EP?

Pseudopod and PodCastle are indepentantly run podcast, although still under the umbrella of Escape Artists, Inc.  Only Escape Pod is effected by STeve's departure.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: jcisuzu on April 22, 2010, 03:47:12 PM
Congrats on the family addition!

Sorry to hear that you'll be stepping down, but quite honestly i've always wonderd how you did it... doing all you do with the level of quality that you do it must take ALOT of time! (i've got 2 kids, 4 y/o and 4 months, and i cant even find time to mow the lawn!)

Hope things calm down for you, AND THANKS FOR ALL YOUR HARD WORK!!!!!
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: zcarter80 on April 23, 2010, 04:43:58 AM
I know that the response to Steve's resignation (or impending resignation) has been mostly positive and im not going to deviate from the trend too much here, but i remember a time when he said he was getting burned out and Norm (from the drabblecast) came in for a bit and he seemed to get a 2nd (or 3rd) wind and went full steam ahead and i was glad for it. i cant say that it was the best thing for him, but in my own selfish way i know it was best for me, and i was fine with that. kind of like when you do what your significant other wants even though you cant stand it but you are certain it will make them happy (or shut them up) so you just keep going with it until you just cant. I think that we, or at least his love of the written and spoken word have been his needy girlfriend and he has enabled us not only because we needed him, but because he loved us so deeply and that's why he kept coming back. Im sure we will see him back here in the form of an intro, or voicing an episode or two, and even more after Harper learns to walk and talk and things equalize but i want him and all of you to know that i have loved every minute and what the podcast has represented if not every tale. i wouldn't trade it for the world and although others have copied the mold this was the prototype and has gotten steady user friendly upgrades as they have come along. so in the end of all i may have to say i just wanna tell Steve. . . Be found in the rain. Not abandoned but simply given to gentler arms and stronger hands so that as the rain falls you may be sheltered.  And if some day you find your way back to the arms of those that could not hold you, let them embrace you. On that day as the sun shines again in our hearts and the only rain are tears of joy that fall from adoring eyes.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: goatkeeper on April 23, 2010, 07:01:19 AM
Keep the positive going.  This has been a weekly show for years, ... I'm sure even Steve will admit that the "official" heads up via webpage/podcast is overdue at this point.  no need to rub it in.
 C'mon, EP isn't getting unfairly canned by Fox!  The forces of good at EP are at work and exciting times are ahead.   Things'll settle and I reckon it's a good time to donate!
https://www.paypal.com/us/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_flow&SESSION=PyPakcu61ZjVXGW8FCMEoR2zBs-sIeonNkZSGC8sclmtoSOUSnoiS7d4zN0&dispatch=50a222a57771920b6a3d7b606239e4d529b525e0b7e69bf0224adecfb0124e9b5efedb82468478c6e115945fd0658595dbb4bda98e0c5f8e
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Sylvan on April 23, 2010, 01:00:07 PM
Dear Steve,

You've brought me and so many others an avalanche of quality for years.  To see you leave...  Well, it's got me sad but your reasons are more than understandable.  Your wonderful new family addition is going to be a handful and the other issues you've been juggling are certainly worth your time to address in depth.  I don't know where I'll get my fix of your melodious tones and geek dad intros/outros but I'll make due.

I just hope this isn't the last we've heard of you.  While Escape Pod is, indeed, all about the stories a good portion of its special place in my heart -and, I would wager, everyone else's- is you.  In some way, shape, or form, I hope that you'll remain in our lives.  Of course that's the great part of the back catalog, isn't it?  I can return to the joys of previous episodes at any time I want, can't I?

Take care of yourself and be well, Steve.

And don't be a stranger, y'hear!  :)

Yours,
Sylvan (Dave)
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: kelleyfaye on April 23, 2010, 06:13:13 PM
DAMN YOU ELEY!!  You selfish tool!

I'm done.  That's my gut reaction then I remember I'm 30 years old and looking to start a family pretty soon myself and echo all the lovin' that's slathered all over the page already.

Right call.  Good man.  Pretty kid.  Congrats and take care of yourself.  Thanks for the fun.

Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: G. T. Blake on April 25, 2010, 03:20:28 PM
Just wanted to say one more thing, which is pretty much a no-brainer, but I still think it needs be said:

No matter who takes the slot as Host, (co-Host, Amorphous podcasting presenter life form with opposable mandibles, whatever the title...) Steve will always be the benchmark to which they will be compared. And yes, this is a daunting prospect for said person, because of how much of Steve we associate with the 'cast.

That said, the other EA podcasts have all gone through this and the replacements are not better (or worse!) than their predecessors. Just different. No one will truly replace Steve. They will be doing something more important: They will be carrying forward and adding their own essence to that which is already there.

I think that is the joy of how the other Pseudopod and  Pod Castle handled the transitions. No one attempted to replace or supplant the previous hosts. They simply carried on and carried forward. (So far none have tried to Carrie Nation, though a few Con pics show attempts at Carrie Fisher...)

I am waiting with bated (Baited, even braided if that were possible) breath for the news Swamp mentioned the other day. Excitement is in the air (or is that incitement in the hare. Ooo. I feel sorry for the rabbit....)

Gee, I better get to bed soon, or these parenthetical statements will start getting ludicrous. (Yes, yes, I know. Too latte, or too late even.)

--G. T. Blake
(Who never met a parenthetical statement he didn't like. Granted, I never met a parenthetical statement in the flesh, just metaphorically on paper.)
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Swamp on April 26, 2010, 05:15:06 PM
I just wanted to update that there is a new post up on the blog.  This simply contains the opening post in this thread from Steve, and then adds the following:

Quote
Escape Pod will be back up and running May 12 (which, incidentally, is our 5 year anniversary/birthday/thingie). Also, we will be closed to submissions until July 1. If you do not hear from us by then, feel free to resubmit.

We’ll be announcing the new editor shortly, until then, thank you for your patience, your support, and your concern.


Also there is a new Escape Pod specific twitter feed (http://twitter.com/escapepodcast).

Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: winterdragon on April 27, 2010, 01:56:06 AM
Hi, I'm another long time listener who hasn't previously bothered with the forums, but who's been motivated to register just to add a voice to the chorus of support for Steve.

It must be a difficult and painful decision to let go of something that you've invested so much blood, sweat and soul into, but I think it's grown up to be big enough and ugly enough to look after itself and continue to grow. And to crush all who dare stand in it's path toward world domination... oops, just ignore that last bit.

Anyway, I just wanted to say thank you for creating something that's meant a lot to me personally over the last five years, and that has done it's own small part in making the world a better place. It's a credit to Steve that the original format of the podcast hasn't really needed to change since it's inception, and has been imitated by other podcasts. Escape Pod also proved the viability of the original business model, which was something of a leap of faith at the time.

Hopefully Steve will find time to return and do the odd intro here and there, because they rock, although I have to admit that Alasdair's outros at Pseudopod rock just as hard. To all the others who work tirelessly to make the Escape Artists podcasts the best of breed - you all rock as well!

May Escape Pod, Pseudopod, and Podcastle live long and prosper, to infinity and beyond! 

And to Steve, have fun!!
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Schreiber on April 27, 2010, 03:46:26 AM
I don't think I'm speaking out of turn when I say you aren't simply an amazing host, editor, reader, and writer. You've been on the forefront of a literary renaissance and we are all going to miss you for however long you're away.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Gamercow on April 27, 2010, 03:04:39 PM
Thank you for putting up the notice.  It is much appreciated.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Hitchhiker on April 27, 2010, 08:28:30 PM
Sad to see you go Steve. Thanks for all the stories!
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Kyoritsu on April 28, 2010, 01:08:51 AM
it's cool man we love you, and I for one will simply appreciate your return when ever it happens to be.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Thomas Daulton on April 28, 2010, 03:41:50 AM
Another [relatively] longtime listener, infrequent poster writing to thank you.  I think, I really believe, I really hope that Steve has created something bigger than himself here [no, I'm not referring to Harper, but congratulations in that department too].  It seems to me like Escape Pod has a lot of talented people contributing at this point.  We've passed the point, [I pray], where Escape Pod might be another one of those flash-in-the-pan free content sites that fold and vanish when donations run low for a couple weeks.  It seems more like an institution, a tradition, by now.  So I am hoping that Steve will come back frequently and contribute, because I enjoy his commentary and his voice.  But on the other hand, I am looking forward to watching Escape Pod grow, change, metastasize, mutate, and absorb and subjugate all lifeforms on Earth like the Blob in that 50's movie.  Thanks, Steve, hope to see you again here real soon, even if it's only for visits.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: smellmyhead on April 28, 2010, 04:56:16 AM
Thank you, Steve.  For bringing us Escape Pod, and for choosing to take care of yourself.  That's not an easy choice, but it sure sounds like the right one to me.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: redonwhite on April 29, 2010, 01:18:41 AM
Dear Steve,

My name is Pawel, I am from Warsaw, Poland, I live in Tokyo, Japan and I have been listening to your podcast for a long time - and I've greatly enjoyed it. It helped me relax and relieve stress many times. I just registered on the forum to send this message.

Today I want to say that you don't owe us anything, you have created a great thing and even if Escape Pod was never to be aired again, and the website and all podcasts was to go down tomorrow, even if your resignation meant the complete and definitive end of Escape Pod, none of us would hold that against you, because you have already done a great job. You owe us nothing. We owe you.

Everything that has a beginning, has an end, Neo! No dharmas ever last (how is your Buddhist meditation? :) ). That said, I'm happy that others will be stepping up, and I hope they will be as inspired as you were. I'm pledging $100 if you ever podcast anything by Stanislaw Lem :)

Anyway, live your life and put your energy where you feel it is needed. Also, nice baby :)
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: stripes on April 30, 2010, 08:14:02 PM
Hey steve, I wish you all the best, and am really glad your long "radio silence" wasn't something permanently dire.

That said, I hope you at least do a guest intro here and there.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: hughman on May 01, 2010, 01:35:41 AM
Hey Steve,
I just want to say that your choice of story and the people you had narrate them opened up doors for me, as I am sure it opened up doors to previously unseen vistas for others. You will be missed.  You have your kids now.  However I really hope that this kid grows and grows as it should. Escape Pod started as a pod cast, it is now a pod community and so it should go on and on. Here's to the next five years.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Dem on May 01, 2010, 02:24:43 PM
I have to say I was a little worried about you. Professional habit; you'd talked about your particular demons and I'm familiar with how that story goes sometimes. So it's good to hear you're still up and running and with enough in reserve to think rationally about the best way forward. You've set up a portal to hours of pleasure here for those of us with voracious SF appetites, and you've given many (sadly, not me yet!) an opportunity to have our own product placed in front of a discerning audience. Take care of yourself, recharge and then do what feels right.  :)
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: puremovic on May 02, 2010, 02:05:25 AM
It's a tribute to Steve to see how many of us have registered an visited the boards explicitly just to wish Steve well  :) Testimony to a job well done!

I've looked forward to this podcast for ...jeepers.... years and still do. At first, I was kind of stunned about the news. Now, I'm okay with it. It's hard to say goodbye to a friend. And weird to say that about I guy I have never met, but know and admire.

Good times, Mr. Ely. Cheers.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: SGAcreative on May 02, 2010, 03:02:21 AM
Steve:

As everyone's said, THANK YOU for years of absolutely first-rate stories, equal parts intriguing and mysterious and inspiring and just plain weird.  Escape Pod is absolutely brilliant, week after week, and I can only hope that the future host(s) will live up to your extraordinary standard.

On a personal note, THANK YOU also for the leap of faith you took the first time you let me read a story for you--and for giving me the room to experiment and grow as a narrator over the years.  I've learned so, SO much from you, from the other narrators you've brought us, and from the thoughtful feedback on the forums (which, again, goes right back to the calibre of listeners your work has attracted).

All the best to you and the family--and to Harper, rock on!

Steve Anderson
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: AKKA on May 02, 2010, 06:02:19 PM
Dear Steve.

This is Andrea, from Italy. I had been looking for something on which to practice my English listening, when I found your podcast, and then I realized I had found something worth listening to. Well, my skills are not yet that good, and so far I've only gone through a limited number of tales, and the archives are still there for me to listen to. So, I'm lucky.

So, in brief, I've just registered to the forums because I wanted to say thank you.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: jundar on May 03, 2010, 07:40:22 PM
Dear Steve,
thank you for this long, strange trip. Escape Pod was the first podcast I listened to and has always been the first in my playlist for as long as I can remember. As some previous commenator already mentioned, you've started as a voice for most of us and have become a regular, trusted and beloved companion through the strange world of scifi audio.

You have given us so much of your time and creativity, and it was a real pleasure waiting for your trademark lines every time. The impact of EP and EA on the podcast scene is tremendous, and will surely continue to be so.

From a personal point of view: good choice, and you will never regret it! :)
from Germany: jundar
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: stePH on May 04, 2010, 05:21:08 PM
...That said, the other EA podcasts have all gone through this and the replacements are not better (or worse!) than their predecessors. Just different. No one will truly replace Steve. They will be doing something more important: They will be carrying forward and adding their own essence to that which is already there.

I think that is the joy of how the other Pseudopod and  Pod Castle handled the transitions. No one attempted to replace or supplant the previous hosts. They simply carried on and carried forward.

Pseudopod, yes, but Podcastle never had a "transition" because there never was one regular host.  Although it seems there has been a transition of sorts, since we've gone from a rotation of hosts to having DKT be the regular host with an occasional guest host stepping in.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Unblinking on May 04, 2010, 05:30:38 PM
...That said, the other EA podcasts have all gone through this and the replacements are not better (or worse!) than their predecessors. Just different. No one will truly replace Steve. They will be doing something more important: They will be carrying forward and adding their own essence to that which is already there.

I think that is the joy of how the other Pseudopod and  Pod Castle handled the transitions. No one attempted to replace or supplant the previous hosts. They simply carried on and carried forward.

Pseudopod, yes, but Podcastle never had a "transition" because there never was one regular host.  Although it seems there has been a transition of sorts, since we've gone from a rotation of hosts to having DKT be the regular host with an occasional guest host stepping in.

True, though Podcastle had the editorial transition, which is also happening here.  In this case the host was also the editor, so it's a dual role this time.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...and Mur Lafferty!
Post by: mlgw@aol.com on May 07, 2010, 07:49:40 AM
When one has children (who do not get a say about being brought into this world,) they must be the first priority in one's life. As much as I will miss you Steve, you have made the only logical decision possible. This doesn't mean the decision was easy to make!
We all have to grow up, a constant process that lasts our entire lives if we are thoughtful, vibrant people, as you most definitely are!
Escape Pod was my introduction to the podcasting world. You got me hooked, Steve, and I will always be grateful. Thank you so much for enriching my life.
And WOW, you hooked Mur Lafferty to take the reins. I am impressed!
I hope this fact eases your mind. I, personally, think you are doing a bang-up job in ensuring the future of Escape Pod. It's all grown up and ready to move on, thanks to you.
You have my respect and admiration.
Mary Laura

 
Title: Re: So here's the deal... and Mur.
Post by: Drakona on May 07, 2010, 09:51:45 AM
A very impressive decision - knowing when and where to draw the line and what priorities to make are some of life's most important lessons, I think.

And: I got all teary eyed when listening to the metacast, hearing you announce that Mur Lafferty will take over after you. No one could do it better.

The bestest of luck, with everything! You will surely be missed!
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: stePH on May 07, 2010, 04:03:50 PM
what What WHAT?  :o

I'm having to post from work here since my home PC is broken and I'm still working on rebuilding it, so no new podcast episodes right now.  So all I know is what gets posted here...

Mur Lafferty is taking over as EP editor and host?  Wow... the prodigal returns to the fold (something I hope to say about Eley someday, incidentally).  stePH iz teh happy.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Heradel on May 07, 2010, 04:10:42 PM
what What WHAT?  :o

I'm having to post from work here since my home PC is broken and I'm still working on rebuilding it, so no new podcast episodes right now.  So all I know is what gets posted here...

Mur Lafferty is taking over as EP editor and host?  Wow... the prodigal returns to the fold (something I hope to say about Eley someday, incidentally).  stePH iz teh happy.

I would check the blog (http://escapepod.org/2010/05/07/mur-on-becoming-escape-pods-editor/), or the twitter feed (http://twitter.com/escapepodcast/status/13554817331), or the thread in Episode comments (http://forum.escapeartists.net/index.php?topic=3561).
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: stePH on May 07, 2010, 04:16:54 PM
I would check the blog (http://escapepod.org/2010/05/07/mur-on-becoming-escape-pods-editor/), or the twitter feed (http://twitter.com/escapepodcast/status/13554817331), or the thread in Episode comments (http://forum.escapeartists.net/index.php?topic=3561).

Yabbut I'm not you  :P
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Mister Freign on May 07, 2010, 10:02:09 PM
Sort of cools enthusiasm creating a podcast - the podcast with the most gravitas in arguably the most important and supported genre of fiction in the medium ....... doesn't float at all?  Sigh.

There's a podcast?  What's that? To what podcast are you referring?  Escape Pod? 

point being: the model hasn't supported Eley, but rather drained him - it's a labor of love that seems to offer no actual self-sustaining options sans commercial backing, which is unacceptable to me, personally.  It portends an ugly future for podcasting in general and puts a grim context around the increasing lag in podcasts in general going on, lately. 

If it wasn't for Norm Sherman I'd've given up on the idea long ago.  I'm not sure I could promote / merchandise the way he does, though.  Perhaps the Sigler / Harwood model will prove robust.  We'll see. 
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Talia on May 07, 2010, 10:30:43 PM
Sort of cools enthusiasm creating a podcast - the podcast with the most gravitas in arguably the most important and supported genre of fiction in the medium ....... doesn't float at all?  Sigh.

There's a podcast?  What's that? To what podcast are you referring?  Escape Pod? 

point being: the model hasn't supported Eley, but rather drained him - it's a labor of love that seems to offer no actual self-sustaining options sans commercial backing, which is unacceptable to me, personally.  It portends an ugly future for podcasting in general and puts a grim context around the increasing lag in podcasts in general going on, lately. 

If it wasn't for Norm Sherman I'd've given up on the idea long ago.  I'm not sure I could promote / merchandise the way he does, though.  Perhaps the Sigler / Harwood model will prove robust.  We'll see. 

You seem to be talking about financially, which AFAIK wasn't the issue, it was more a time & energy thing, something being addressed by having several people help Mur out.

But yeah, putting out a weekly podcast largely on you own for most of 5 years is rather draining, I imagine.

I suspect commercial vs. non commercial doesnt play into it much.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: eytanz on May 07, 2010, 11:46:10 PM
Well, it must play into it indirectly in that if it was making a lot of money, Steve wouldn't have had to take another job. But Steve was very clear, from the beginning, that he had no intention of making a profit. So I agree with Talia rather than Mister Freign's reading of the situation.

In any case, I thought I already posted this, but I guess I never pressed send - Welcome back, Mur! Like everyone else, I wish Steve would not have felt he had to leave, but the choice of Mur as a new editor makes me feel a lot more positive about the whole situation.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Number_6 on May 12, 2010, 09:02:04 PM
Just listened to the MetaCast, congratulations on the birth of your noob. I have thoroughly enjoyed listening to this cast, and become a huge fan of it. I did in fact did pump my fist in the air (a little) and "wooted" (a little) on the announcement that Mur Lafferty would be guiding this ship in your stead. As much as I am a fan of this podcast and of you, Mr. Eley for making this happen, some of my favorite stories on this cast have been read by Ms. Lafferty. So here is to another five years (stuck on mars). Very much looking forward to it.

Much Love,
#6
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: EarleyDaysYet on May 13, 2010, 06:00:41 AM
Steve - ditto and ditto. Glad to hear you're alive, congratulations re Harper, family first. We'll miss you - y'all come visit anytime, y'hear?
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: SFEley on May 13, 2010, 07:32:15 AM
You seem to be talking about financially, which AFAIK wasn't the issue, it was more a time & energy thing, something being addressed by having several people help Mur out.

Just to be clear on this particular point: Talia nails it.  Escape Artists is in the black, and pretty much always has been.  Sometimes not very in the black, and occasionally edging towards a deep burgundy which made Paul Haring (our treasurer) very nervous. But we're not running a deficit, and the business model we've been on -- mostly donations, light advertising and merchandising -- has been sustainable.

This transition was not a business decision.  It was not a sign of the Death of Science Fiction (and/or Podcasting and/or Puppies or what-have-you).  It was a Steve thing. 
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Mister Freign on May 14, 2010, 09:21:50 AM
the Steve thing and the color of the ink are synonymous from this perspective.   I hear you  ( - just... [tremble] .... not for much longer...  :-[  )  - but, as shrewdly as Talia nails it in this instance, I'm wondering how much room there is in the market, what the cost of the effort would be.  Most of the podcasts I like the most disappear or spin down (thought variants, unusual / surreal format, full audio drama, complex themes, concepts not rooted in familiar or cult-ural tropes); so you can understand if I get nervous when the flagship goes quiet for that long.  I don't really pay much attention to the personal lives of the personalities - unless they're insanely spicy - and I'm pretty unrepentant about just sort of going ahead and expecting a steady feed; I listen to all the commercials and even go so far as to take 'em up on promotional offers and trying out their products - cos, you know, capitalism can be nice and keep the things I like moving along briskly if I do my part - so my eyebrow is sure to go up.  Take it as an expression of my respect for this particular feed - it's emblematic.

You know, also - Atlanta doesn't have a hell of a lot going for it.  Our strong presence on the web, in creative gaming, cons, and in podcasts is kind of special little point for me.  If Escape Pod was going to go dark, I may have been prepared to do something drastic and hook for for bandwidth or something.  It's the freaking End Times.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Mister Freign on May 14, 2010, 09:34:05 AM
Weird, dude Steve, it's like you're talking to me, at the end, there.  Jeez man.  Well.  You can certainly come see the gamelan play whenever you like, on me.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: vector on May 15, 2010, 04:08:57 PM
Congratulations and thank you.  Your efforts have entertained and made me think every now and then.

I've also passed the stories to my son and his friends for a new generation of sci-fi enthusiasts.

I've three kids and once they get out of diapers you may find some extra little helpers for you hobbies.  It is all about looking towards the future!

thanks again,
-Aaron
http://www.aaronheld.com (http://www.aaronheld.com)
Philadelphia

Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: chornbe on May 18, 2010, 06:25:56 PM
Steve, congrats on the new fatherhood, of course. I'm glad everyone's well. Kids are life-changing. Enjoy them.

Listening to the metacast, I was ready to unsubscribe. To me Steve Ely *IS* EscapePod. With the news that Mur is coming (back) onboard, I remain subscribed and a huge fan. Who doesn't love Mur's contributions to the podosphere?

Steve, you'll be missed. As I mentioned, to me, Steve Ely == Escape Pod.

You're leaving your (other) baby in good hands with Mur.

Mur... welcome (back) aboard.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: ehlderanna on May 29, 2010, 08:10:22 PM
Thank You Steve.

I only registered on this forum to say that.  You, Steve, have touched my life without having ever met me.  Your voice has reached out and encouraged and nurtured my love of fantasy, science fiction, and writing.  Thank you again and please enjoy your family; time passes so fast.

I will miss your voice, but I am glad for you.
Title: Re: So here's the deal...
Post by: Quantum Genie on June 09, 2010, 10:51:15 AM
Steve

Thanks for EP and its sisters SP and PC.  I only came across them early this year and became a fan right off.  Having two small kids myself I can understand and respect your decision to go - at least for a while.

I'll miss your voice, intros and outros but you've left us all with something wonderful.  I've even found myself entering the flash story competition - and I haven't written fiction since I was a kid!

So best of luck and as they say in the 137th dimension, "Let fly the pink unicorns".

QG