My New Web Address!

I love my new address! I'm not talking about my mailing address; I'm talking about my web address. Now you can read my blog by simply going to NicolasLaBarre.com. I think everyone should pursue owning a domain, and especially the domain of their name if it is available. Leo Laporte "The Tech Guy" has recommended owning your own domain for years. Why? When you own your domain you have ownership and control of the content you create. You don't have to worry about a website changing its privacy policy or terms of service on you. Also, you can prevent being confused with someone who shares the same name as you. Have you ever tried to tell someone your username on a social media site and they can't find you? By linking to your social accounts from your website you can ensure that followers find YOUR account! I was able to purchase my domain through Google Domains for $12/a year. The interface is simple and you can be up and running in 5 minutes. I'm considering moving to a more rich site design by Squarespace, but for now I'm using Blogger to host my site for free. If you have any suggestions feel free to leave them in the comments section.

The Simpler Happier Life (Podcast Pick)

Are you stressed out by your financial situation? The media tries to tell us that we have to be rich and have lots of material things to be happy. I've learned that living a simpler life is much more rewarding. I have been listening to The Simpler Happier Life podcast and I really enjoy it. The podcast is updated weekly by hosts Mark and Lauren Greutman. Mark and Lauren have seen first hand how debt saps your happiness and how family values are what make you truly happy. Each Wednesday you'll learn about real ways to save money, get out of debt, and get financial independence. Here is a link to their site markandlaureng.com/podcasts where you can see if this podcast is for you. I can't wait for Wednesday to come so I can listen to their next episode!

Podcasts: FREE entertainment

Have you ever got tired of listening to the same old songs on Pandora and wanted something else FREE to listen to? I introduce you to the world of podcasts. Podcasts are audio recordings which are released in episodes. Some podcasts are as simple as cut together versions of radio shows (NPR has many podcasts). The amazing thing about podcasts is that you can find niche content that caters to your interests. Whether you like aquariums, gardening, golf, sewing, or and endless number of other genres I guarantee there is a podcast for you. I love listening to several podcasts every week! So how do you get started listening?

First, grab your smartphone and go to the store where you download apps

Then, search for "Podcast"

Download a free or inexpensive client.

(Many use Stitcher Radio [Android and iOS]) I use Pocket Casts $3.99 [Android and iOS])

When the application installs browse the categories section. When you find a podcast you like tap subscribe. Then when a new episode comes out you will be notified!

You're all set now! There's a reason I didn't show any screenshots of my podcast app... Come back tomorrow to find out what my favorite podcast is at the moment!

Hello!

It looks like you found my first post. Maybe one day this blog will have hundreds, thousands, or even millions of readers. But right now I just want to share my interests with everyone and to have an archive of my thoughts. I do enjoy posting to social media but long form and rich content doesn't fit on those platforms. I'm working on lots of different posts now so you can follow this page or follow me on Google+ or Twitter to see my new content.