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Be Awesome Together
Charles McFall, Tyra Burton
55 episodes
1 week ago
Join Tyra Burton, award-winning professor, social media strategist, and geek culture enthusiast, alongside Charles "Rock God of Podcasting" McFall for a weekly adventure in connection, creativity, and fandom. With over a decade of experience fostering dynamic discussions at Dragon Con, Tyra and Charles bring their passion for storytelling and community-building to the mic. Each episode dives into fresh discussions with creators, exclusive panels, and takeovers from fan-favorite personalities, all while celebrating the art of collaboration.
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All content for Be Awesome Together is the property of Charles McFall, Tyra Burton and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Join Tyra Burton, award-winning professor, social media strategist, and geek culture enthusiast, alongside Charles "Rock God of Podcasting" McFall for a weekly adventure in connection, creativity, and fandom. With over a decade of experience fostering dynamic discussions at Dragon Con, Tyra and Charles bring their passion for storytelling and community-building to the mic. Each episode dives into fresh discussions with creators, exclusive panels, and takeovers from fan-favorite personalities, all while celebrating the art of collaboration.
Show more...
How To
Education
Episodes (20/55)
Be Awesome Together
Have you had an awesomely creative year?

The episode opens like a real holiday living room: cats eating plastic, Shane crashing into the house like a tornado, and Charles & Tyra immediately getting hijacked by “life is lifing.” And somehow—between scotch, cold-brew regret, and a whole side-quest about chairs, shelves, and the chaos of scheduling—they land on the real theme: this is the final Be Awesome Together episode of 2025, and it’s time to breathe, reflect, and celebrate what got created in spite of everything.

From Multiverse con improv chaos to Tyra teaching in a totally new environment (new campus, new students, new material) to Charles stepping into higher-level creator confidence without apologizing for his value—this conversation is basically a love letter to staying creative when the world is loud. It also turns into a surprisingly sharp discussion about attention spans, algorithms, and how creators can bridge the gap between “1-second doomscroll” and “45-minute storytelling.” It’s funny, honest, a little spicy, and exactly the kind of year-end reset that reminds you: you’re not behind—you’re building.

  • Pick one “first” from your year (a new skill, new audience, new risk) and write down what it taught you—then carry that lesson into 2026 instead of just making a resolution.

  • Design your “bridge content”: use short clips (30–60 seconds) to emotionally hook people, then point them toward the longer episode or deeper story—don’t fight short-form, use it as the on-ramp.

  • Stop apologizing for your value: if you’ve built expertise over decades, price and present it like expertise—your years are part of the deliverable, not just the hours.

  • Create a low-pressure consistency anchor (like Charles’ Wednesday night tutoring sessions): same time, same place, predictable rhythm. It’s not “content” first—it’s community first.

  • Make “find your joy” measurable: pick one creative outlet that calms your nervous system (watercolor, crochet, journaling, quiet editing) and schedule it like it’s an appointment with your future self.

Tyra: “I hope everybody finds a creative outlet that not only inspires them, but I hope they find one that brings them some peace and calm… because we need a lot of that.”

Follow Be Awesome Together on YouTube
, Facebook
, Instagram
, and TikTok
.

Surf The Chaos, Enjoy the Ride!

These notes are empowered by AI. ~Chad


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1 week ago
1 hour 31 minutes 56 seconds

Be Awesome Together
Professionalism: Skill, Judgment, and Not Being a Jerk

This episode starts exactly where real creativity lives: in the messy, human moments before the “perfect” show begins. From audio hiccups and nostalgic commercial references to candid laughs about chaos, Charles and Tyra pull the curtain back on what professionalism actually looks like when things don’t go according to plan. And spoiler: it’s not polish—it’s presence.

As the conversation deepens, professionalism is reframed as something far more powerful than follower counts or flashy resumes. It becomes about kindness, emotional intelligence, preparation, boundaries, and knowing when to adapt instead of panic. Through real-world panel stories, teaching moments, and behind-the-scenes convention realities, this episode challenges creators to rethink what it means to “show up” — not as a persona, but as a grounded, trustworthy human who can handle the moment when everything goes sideways.

  • Lead with kindness first. Skill matters, but professionalism starts with how you treat people—especially when things go wrong.

  • Be prepared, not rigid. Do the work ahead of time, but know how to pivot when the plan collapses.

  • Know what you bring to the table. You don’t need to bring everything—just bring your thing with confidence.

  • Set and respect boundaries. “No” is a complete sentence, and clarity prevents resentment.

  • Separate friendly from friends. Not every professional relationship is personal—and that’s okay.

  • Put the show first. Whether it’s a panel, class, or stream, professionalism means protecting the experience for everyone.

“Professionalism isn’t about numbers—it’s about your drive, your ethics, and where you put your energy.”
— Charles McFall

Follow Be Awesome Together on YouTube
, Facebook
, Instagram
, and TikTok
.

Surf The Chaos, Enjoy the Ride!

These notes are empowered by AI. ~Chad

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2 weeks ago
1 hour 30 minutes 29 seconds

Be Awesome Together
BAT: How mentality affects creativity

This episode dives straight into the heart of creative burnout, sick-day fog, and the emotional roller coaster every creator secretly rides. Charles and Tyra openly unpack what it really feels like when mindset slams the brakes on creativity—whether it's doom-scrolling through exhaustion, pushing too hard out of habit, or losing your spark in the middle of a project you love. It’s honest, funny, and full of those “yep, that’s me” moments that remind you you’re not alone.

From sick-day recovery stories to rediscovering creative flow, this conversation feels like sitting with two friends who get it. They talk clutter, boundaries, the danger of doing “too much,” and the quiet magic of doing just enough to keep your creative soul alive. Whether you’re a writer stuck in the muddy middle, a podcaster staring down the keyboard, or just a human balancing life and burnout, this episode gives you permission to rest, regroup, and reconnect with what lights you up.

Actionable Items

  • Clean or reset one small corner of your creative space—your brain may follow.

  • When burnout hits, switch to a different creative activity to re-ignite flow.

  • Practice saying “Nope, I’m good” to things that drain your energy.

  • Leave yourself mid-sentence or with a quick note to make restarting easier.

  • Check in weekly with a creative partner who can nudge you back into motion.

Quote of the Episode
"Your mindset affects your creativity because they are connected. When we're not creating, we're missing that connection." — Tyra Burton

Call to Action
Follow Be Awesome Together on
YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Surf The Chaos, Enjoy the Ride!

These notes are empowered by AI. ~Chad


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3 weeks ago
1 hour 22 minutes 4 seconds

Be Awesome Together
BAT: Be Grateful Together

This episode is pure cozy-chaos in the best BAT way — whiskey jokes, southern cornbread debates, gratitude confessions, and a whole lot of heart. Charles and Tyra slide from dinner talk into deep emotional work without ever losing the playful banter that makes their dynamic magic. This is that feel-like-you’re-in-the-living-room kind of episode — the kind where being grateful turns into storytelling, vulnerability, and laughing at yourself in equal measure.

Whether it’s Tyra unpacking the very real struggle of trusting people, Charles reckoning with self-worth, or both of them navigating collaboration mishaps, this episode becomes a warm reminder that gratitude isn’t about perfection — it’s about practice. If you want an episode that gives you humor, honesty, and some light emotional heavy lifting, this is absolutely one to watch or listen to.

  • Try micro-gratitude: Identify one small thing each day that went right — even if it’s just getting out of bed or brushing your teeth.

  • Practice “intentional compliments:” Give someone a sincere compliment today and notice how it lifts your energy too.

  • Absorb gratitude without deflection: When someone compliments you, resist the urge to downplay it. Say “thank you” and let it land.

  • Check your communication loops: If a collaboration moment feels off, pause, clarify intent, and express appreciation to get back on the same page.

“The more you compliment people, the more you feel gratitude.” — Charles McFall

Follow Be Awesome Together on
YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Surf The Chaos, Enjoy the Ride!

These notes are empowered by AI. ~Chad

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1 month ago
1 hour 26 minutes 10 seconds

Be Awesome Together
BAT: Stop, COLLABORATE, and Listen!

In this lively, off-the-rails episode of Be Awesome Together, Charles and Tyra ride the post-Conjuration high and dive straight into what happens when creative chaos becomes creative collaboration. From RPG shenanigans, bizarre character voices, cults of Possum Christ, and loud hallway recruitment tactics, to real talk about building workshops, panels, and community—this episode shows the beauty (and mess) of creators coming together to lift each other up. If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like when digital media minds, authors, gamers, and marketers collide, this one feels like being backstage at a con with your favorite nerdy friends.

But woven through all the jokes, con stories, and elevator lore, there’s a surprisingly grounded exploration of collaboration: what works, what fails, and what creators really need to know to protect their ideas, manage their time, and find the right partners. Whether you’re a veteran panelist, a new podcaster, or someone dreaming of building something big with your friends, this episode offers honest insights, heartfelt encouragement, and a nudge to embrace the chaos—and create something amazing together.

  • Know your collaboration type: One-shot, short-term, long-term, or true partnership—clarity prevents burnout and resentment.

  • Communicate early and often: Define goals, expectations, boundaries, and how you’ll handle changes before you start.

  • Follow up quickly: After cons, meetings, or chance encounters—strike while the inspiration is hot.

  • Put it in writing: Even small projects deserve basic agreements. Future-you will thank past-you.

  • Bring your authentic self: Don’t shape-shift for a collab. The magic happens when everyone shows up as themselves.

“You have to bring you to the table. If they don’t want it, it wasn’t a good fit.” — Charles McFall

Follow Be Awesome Together on
YouTube
Facebook
Instagram
and TikTok.

Surf The Chaos, Enjoy the Ride!

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1 month ago
1 hour 26 minutes 1 second

Be Awesome Together
Surf the Chaos: Patreon, Newsletters & Creative Energy

Charles and Tyra are back on Be Awesome Together with a blend of chaos, creativity, and cough drops. After battling sickness and AI frustration, the duo dives into something every creator should care about — building community and sustainability through Patreon. From late-night creative burnout to the magic of small consistent effort, they tackle why newsletters, tiers, and connection matter more than algorithms ever could. Expect laughs, real talk about boundaries and burnout, and a few Taco Bell confessions along the way.

This episode is a warm-and-real deep dive into what it takes to keep your creative spark alive without losing your sanity. Whether you’re wondering how to engage your audience, find your rhythm again, or just stop yelling at your AI assistant, Charles and Tyra remind you that being awesome doesn’t have to be a solo act — and that sometimes, the best thing you can do is surf the chaos and hit “publish” anyway.

Actionable Items

  • Remember that small steps matter — even 15 minutes of creative work adds up.

  • Use Patreon or newsletters as tools for connection, not just monetization.

  • Set clear boundaries for your creative energy; it’s a luxury item.

  • Aim for an 80/20 balance — 80% giving value, 20% gentle selling.

  • Build community intentionally; charge when it adds structure, not guilt.

Quote
“Your energy is a luxury item, and you should be very careful who you spend it with.” — Tyra Burton

Call to Action
Follow Be Awesome Together on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Surf The Chaos, Enjoy the Ride!

These notes are empowered by AI. ~ Chad

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1 month ago
1 hour 14 minutes 10 seconds

Be Awesome Together
BAT: Translating Real-World Skills into Media Magic

What if your “regular job” was already your media training ground? In this episode of Be Awesome Together, Charles and guest co-host Dr. Elaine Venter unpack how any real-world experience—waiting tables, pulling espresso shots, or leading a student club—can translate into digital-media skills. From learning professional communication behind a counter to turning a side hustle into a personal brand, they reveal how to build credibility and confidence before you ever land an internship. Along the way, Charles shares a hilarious “redneck Bigfoot” story from Multiverse Con, while Elaine brings academic wisdom, caffeinated energy, and serious encouragement for creators at every stage.

Whether you’re a student anxious about “not having experience” or a mid-career pro craving a pivot, this conversation shows how to mine your own life for transferable talent—and how to package it for the media world. They tackle the myths about unpaid work, explain when “exposure” actually pays off, and share the secret formula for getting recognized online without losing yourself in the algorithm.

Actionable Items

  • Audit your current and past jobs for soft skills—communication, teamwork, adaptability—that apply to any creative field.

  • Ask your employer or club if you can manage social media or content creation; document every metric and result.

  • Build a simple digital portfolio (even unpaid projects count) to showcase measurable impact.

  • Practice professional communication: write emails, texts, and DMs as if your next boss is reading them.

  • Record short, private videos to get comfortable on camera before publishing your first post or podcast.

Quote

“You don’t get the skill until you learn the skill. What excites you? What’s interesting to you?”
— Charles McFall

Call to Action
Follow Be Awesome Together on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Surf The Chaos, Enjoy the Ride!

These notes are empowered by AI. ~Chad

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2 months ago
1 hour 1 minute 45 seconds

Be Awesome Together
“Building Your Audience, One Post at a Time”

Technical chaos meets creative community in this hilarious, heart-on-its-sleeve episode of Be Awesome Together! With Charles away, Tyra takes the reins (and the buttons) alongside returning favorite Bob McGough — author, podcaster, and self-described “redneck wizard wrangler.” Between missing music cues, haunted dogs, and a live phone call from Charles, the duo dives deep into how indie creators actually market themselves when the algorithms don’t care. From newsletter tips to digital PO boxes, from Taylor Swift fandoms to haunted house plans, this episode is pure improv wisdom with heart and humor.

Bob and Tyra prove that sometimes “unprofessional” is just another word for authentic. They talk real talk about building community one fan at a time, surviving creative chaos, and learning that you don’t need perfection to connect — just a good story and a genuine laugh. Whether you’re a writer, podcaster, or creator who’s ever thought, “Am I even doing this right?”, this one’s your creative pep talk in podcast form.

Actionable Items & Takeaways

  • Audit your newsletter: cut inactive subscribers and keep your core engaged.

  • Use Mailerlite or similar tools to start small, automate smartly, and grow sustainably.

  • Own your digital space — your website and mailing list are the only platforms you truly control.

  • Build community through live events and genuine interactions, not algorithms.

  • Never underestimate the power of personality — people follow people, not brands.

  • And yes, always have a backup plan for your streaming software!

Quote of the Episode

“I’d rather have ten super-supportive fans who’ve become my friends than a thousand people who just say, ‘Oh, a new book, whatever.’”
— Bob McGough

Call to Action
Follow Be Awesome Together on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Surf The Chaos, Enjoy the Ride!

These notes are empowered by AI. ~Chad


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2 months ago
1 hour 13 minutes 49 seconds

Be Awesome Together
What's my Hook?

This episode of Be Awesome Together is equal parts chaos, caffeine, and creativity. Charles and Tyra dive into the art of crafting the perfect hook—that one-liner that makes people stop scrolling and start listening. From elevator pitches to podcast intros, they show how storytelling, humor, and heart can turn a sentence into an invitation. Along the way, they test out real-time hooks for Caffeinations, Wise _N _Nerdy, and Earth Station Boo, all while laughing through technical hiccups, cat interruptions, and a surprise cameo from “Chad,” Charles’s AI assistant with a voice that could melt butter.

You’ll hear them workshop live, break down what makes a hook work, and prove that creativity often thrives in the messy middle. Whether you’re building your own brand or just love hearing creative minds riff, this episode is a behind-the-scenes masterclass in showing up imperfectly and still making magic.

Actionable Items

  • Refine your hook until it’s short, emotional, and scroll-stopping. Read it out loud and edit until it feels natural.

  • Define your why before your what—people connect to purpose, not just products.

  • Record your pitch and play it back. If it sounds forced, simplify.

  • Use imagery to create connection: the sip of coffee, the Toys R Us nostalgia, the slumber-party laughter.

  • Ask others what they hear when you share your hook; feedback sharpens focus.

Quote

“I wanted to create a moment in time of joy connected to coffee.” — Charles McFall

Call to Action
Follow Be Awesome Together on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Surf the Chaos, Enjoy the Ride!

These notes are empowered by AI. ~Chad

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2 months ago
1 hour 6 minutes 2 seconds

Be Awesome Together
When should I get started?

Ever wonder what it really takes to start your own podcast? In this laughter-filled, nostalgia-driven episode, Charles and Tyra dig deep into their own podcasting origin stories — from chaotic first recordings and questionable mic setups to lessons learned after years behind the mic. Whether you’re dreaming of hitting “record” for the first time or have a dusty podcast project sitting on your hard drive, this episode gives you the truth about procrastination, passion, and persistence.

You’ll hear how Be Awesome Together itself grew from trial, error, and friendship — and why podcasting is less about perfection and more about connection. They share stories of roof collapses, Taco Bell therapy, and why sometimes the hardest part is just pressing “record.” If you’ve ever said, “One day, I’ll start my podcast,” this is your sign that today is that day.

Actionable Items

  • 🎙️ Start with what you have. Don’t wait for the perfect mic or studio—just record and learn as you go.

  • 🗓️ Be consistent. Even one episode a month builds momentum and accountability.

  • 💡 Find your format. Structure your show so hitting “record” feels easy and repeatable.

  • 🤝 Collaborate smart. Choose co-hosts or partners who complement your energy and schedule.

  • 🌐 Own your space. Buy your show’s URL before someone else does—you’ll thank yourself later.

Quote
“Hit the record button. Even if you’re the only one listening at first, that’s perfectly fine. Do you, boo.”
— Charles McFall

Call to Action
Follow Be Awesome Together on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Surf The Chaos, Enjoy the Ride!

These notes are empowered by AI. ~Chad

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2 months ago
1 hour 23 minutes 18 seconds

Be Awesome Together
How do I create in the lull?

Ever hit that point where you just don’t want to do anything—even the things you love? That’s where Charles and Tyra start this episode of Be Awesome Together, live, chaotic, and caffeine-fueled (with guest appearances from dogs, lattes, and laughter). They dive deep into what it means to create in the lull—those moments when motivation dries up but life keeps rolling. From Tyra’s honest talk about burnout and balance to Charles’ raw look at faith, finances, and surfing the chaos, this episode is both unfiltered and surprisingly grounding.

It’s a real-life conversation about staying creative when the universe feels heavy, learning when to rest, and remembering your why when the drive fades. Between the laughter, candid teaching stories, and dog interruptions, you’ll hear what keeps creators moving when they’d rather nap. Think of this one as a permission slip—to slow down, reset, and remember that chaos can be a wave you ride, not one that drowns you.

Actionable Items

  • Identify your “lull type”: burnout, boredom, overwhelm, or emotional fatigue—and respond accordingly.

  • Keep a “done list” to remind yourself how far you’ve come when motivation fades.

  • Change your environment to rekindle creativity—sometimes a new coffee shop or playlist is enough.

  • Recognize when good enough is good enough—perfection often kills progress.

  • Protect your creative soul: say no when needed and take breaks before burnout hits.

Quote
“Lulls are hard. Chaos is actually easier. Know your why—and let it carry you through.” — Charles McFall

Call to Action
Follow Be Awesome Together on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Surf the Chaos, Enjoy the Ride!

These notes are empowered by AI. ~Chad

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3 months ago
1 hour 15 minutes 14 seconds

Be Awesome Together
What is a growth mindset?

This episode is pure, improvisational energy — two friends (and long-time collaborators) riffing on what it actually looks like to choose growth instead of staying stuck. Between Dragon Con debriefs, coffee obsessions, mic troubles, and the occasional spider horror story, Charles and Tyra weave practical philosophy into real-world anecdotes: how putting something down can be growth, why curiosity beats perfectionism, and how tiny rituals (checklists, a teacup, a new hobby) can yank you out of a fixed mindset. It’s warm, messy, and unexpectedly useful — like overhearing two wise people working out their lives on a porch with great coffee.

If you listen, expect concrete permission to experiment: try something new, take two things off your plate when you add one, treat failures as “not yet,” and remember that other people’s words don’t have the last say on who you become. The conversation swings from practical (speed-tests before remote interviews, spreadsheet survival) to delightfully human (Sesame Street nostalgia, wanting to learn watercolors, the thrill of launching a coffee show), leaving you curious about your next small, brave step.


  • Pick one new experiment this week (podcast idea, watercolor lesson, or music riff). Remove two things from your plate before you start so the experiment actually gets attention.

  • Use a simple checklist for any multi-step task (recording setup, client deliverable, or teaching prep) — do a five-step “preflight” before you begin.

  • Reframe setbacks with the phrase “Not yet.” When you catch yourself saying “I can’t,” add “—not yet” and one micro-action you can take tomorrow.

  • Schedule a 30-minute curiosity session: watch one tutorial (watercolor, espresso technique, or audio editing) and try one tangible step afterward — no expectations, just practice.


“Resistance is what leads to drowning.” — Charles McFall


Follow Be Awesome Together on YouTube
, Facebook
, Instagram
, and TikTok

Surf The Chaos, Enjoy the Ride!

These notes are empowered by AI. ~Chad

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3 months ago
1 hour 23 minutes 26 seconds

Be Awesome Together
Post-Con Chaos, Cozy Vibes, and Nerdy Highs

Dragon Con just ended, and the blues are real—but instead of wallowing, Tyra and guest Elaine Venter turn their post-con crash into a warm, chaotic, and hilarious debrief. From volunteering in the Digital Media Track to exploring food courts, cosplay struggles, and meeting stars like Katee Sackhoff, this episode captures what makes Dragon Con unlike any other con in the world. It’s part confessional, part celebration, and all fandom love.

Elaine shares her journey from shy attendee to volunteer, cosplay builder, and community connector. Tyra brings her decades of Dragon Con experience, dishing on everything from skybridges to “Dragon Con After Dark.” Together, they highlight why Dragon Con feels like home—a sprawling family reunion filled with fandom, friendships, and food adventures. If you’ve ever wondered why this con is different from the corporate expos, or why people cry when it ends, this conversation will hit you right in the nerdy feels.

  • Don’t wait for perfection—just create. Content thrives when it’s authentic, messy, and real.

  • Volunteer at a convention: it guarantees you entry, connects you to the community, and makes the experience richer.

  • When cosplaying, plan for comfort and logistics—having a nearby hotel or safe place to change is a lifesaver.

  • Food is part of the Dragon Con experience—find your go-to spots (and always pack snacks).

  • Remember that fandom isn’t just about media—it’s about the people you meet and the friendships you build.


    “Perfect is boring. Life is messy, and it’s okay if content is messy too.” — Elaine Venter

    Follow Be Awesome Together on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

    Surf The Chaos, Enjoy the Ride!

    These notes are empowered by AI. ~Chad

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    3 months ago
    1 hour 13 minutes 15 seconds

    Be Awesome Together
    Be Awesome Together! Rock Your Niche, from Passion to Personal Brand

    This live Dragon Con 2025 episode of Be Awesome Together is buzzing with energy, creativity, and real talk about finding your niche. Charles and Tyra bring guest Barr Foxx to the table, and together they dive into the chaos of shelves (literal and metaphorical), saying “no,” and learning how to value your energy. Barr shares the story of how cosplay became his passion—starting with Halloween costumes and evolving into a career that has earned him awards, international recognition, and even a documentary picked up by Amazon Prime. The conversation is full of laughs, personal revelations, and those “aha” moments that make you feel like you’re right in the room at Dragon Con.

    Beyond cosplay, this episode digs into universal struggles—burnout, imposter syndrome, and navigating cultural barriers when your niche isn’t mainstream. Whether you’re a creator, entrepreneur, or just someone figuring out your own lane, the stories here will make you reflect on what it means to protect your energy, push through walls, and embrace your unique path. Plus, with audience Q&A and some hilarious side tangents (including Charles’ costume change and Tyra’s Taylor Swift moment), this one’s both inspiring and wildly entertaining.

    • Protect your energy like it’s a luxury item—say “no” without guilt.

    • Don’t wait for permission: create for yourself first, then share it.

    • When building a niche, collaborate with communities already doing it.

    • Use trial and error as a teacher—pivot when you hit repeated dead ends.

    • Remember: you don’t need everyone to “get it”—focus on the people who do.

    "I just took a chance on myself. And I want other people to do that for themselves as well." — Barr Foxx

    Follow Be Awesome Together on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

    Surf The Chaos, Enjoy the Ride!

    These notes are empowered by AI. ~Chad

    Show more...
    3 months ago
    57 minutes 17 seconds

    Be Awesome Together
    BAT - How to Prepare for a Panel

    This episode of Be Awesome Together is pure creator chaos in the best way possible. Charles and Tyra wrestle with tech gremlins, playful chatroom trolls, and the ever-looming countdown to Dragon Con—all while diving deep into what it really takes to prep for panels. From hilarious stories about dumpster babies and surprise panel assignments to heartfelt reminders about kindness and confidence, this one’s a rollercoaster of laughs and lessons. If you’ve ever wondered how panelists handle audience hijackers, chatty co-panelists, or just the sheer unpredictability of live events, you’ll want to hear how Charles and Tyra surf the chaos.

    At its heart, this conversation is about showing up as your best self, even when the room (or the cat) tries to knock you off balance. With years of paneling experience between them, Charles and Tyra share their honest truths: know your audience, know your venue, and—most importantly—know yourself. Whether you’re stepping into your very first panel or your three-hundredth, you’ll walk away with both confidence and practical tools. Oh, and if you’ve ever worried about slide decks, moderators who won’t stop talking, or that one guy in Q&A who just won’t let go…they’ve got stories and solutions you won’t forget.

    • Bring bullet points, not scripts—leave room for real conversation.

    • Visit your venue early; knowing the room calms pre-panel nerves.

    • Be ready to redirect chatty panelists or audience monopolizers with kindness.

    • Practice being “unprepared”—the more reps you get, the more confident you’ll feel.

    • Never underestimate snacks, water, and a good notebook for keeping panels smooth.

    "Every time you step in front of people, you have a job. My job is to entertain, educate, and enlighten—and if I can’t hit that because I’m not organized, I’ve failed." — Charles McFall

    Follow Be Awesome Together on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

    Surf The Chaos, Enjoy the Ride!

    These notes are empowered by AI. ~Chad

    Show more...
    4 months ago
    1 hour 35 minutes 50 seconds

    Be Awesome Together
    How to Co-Create Successfully – Without a Prison Sentence

    In this episode of Be Awesome Together, Charles and Tyra prove that surfing the chaos is the best way to co-create. From technical hiccups and Taylor Swift jokes to heartfelt stories of partnerships, breakups, and the magic of collaboration, this conversation is equal parts entertaining and educational. You’ll learn how to balance creative vision, handle conflict with honesty, and set boundaries that keep partnerships strong—without needing a pod-divorce. Whether you’re a podcaster, content creator, or just someone trying to collaborate better, this episode shows that creating together can be more powerful (and more fun) than going it alone.

    1. Clear communication is everything – Honest conversations about goals, boundaries, and expectations can prevent conflict before it starts.

    2. Have the hard talks early – Discuss ownership, legal agreements, and what happens if one partner wants out before the project takes off.

    3. Balance shared and solo creativity – Don’t lose your personal voice inside the partnership. Your individual growth makes the team stronger.

    4. Find the magic in synergy – The right co-creator pushes you to do things you couldn’t (or wouldn’t) do alone, creating something bigger than the sum of its parts.

    "When you find somebody who makes you better, who challenges you, and who’s willing to play their role in the moment—you become something bigger than what you are." — Charles

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    4 months ago
    1 hour 29 minutes 42 seconds

    Be Awesome Together
    How to Co-Create Successfully – Without a Prison Sentence

    Co-creating can be a dream—or a nightmare. In this episode, Charles and Tyra pull back the curtain on what it really takes to build something amazing with another person—whether it’s a book, a podcast, a business, or a passion project. From knowing when to join forces to spotting the warning signs that it’s time to part ways, we’re diving deep into the magic and mayhem of partnerships. Experience personal stories, a few laughs, and real strategies to help you keep your collaboration thriving without losing your mind (or your freedom).

    Awesome Takeaways

    1. Define roles early—ambiguity breeds conflict; clarity creates flow.

    2. Schedule “state of the partnership” check-ins to catch issues before they explode.

    3. Document your agreements—verbal trust is good, written terms are better.

    4. Learn each other’s creative rhythms to balance productivity and flexibility.

    5. Have the hard conversations early—avoiding them only makes the fallout worse.


    “Co-creation isn’t about splitting the work in half—it’s about doubling the magic without doubling the drama.” ~Tyra Burton


    💥 Let’s Be Awesome… Together! 💥
    Don’t just listen—join the conversation, share your ideas, and surf the chaos with us.

    📲 Follow & Connect:

    • Instagram: @BeAwesomeTogetherShow

    • Facebook: Be Awesome Together

    • YouTube: Be Awesome Together

    • Twitch: BeAwesomeTogether

    • Patreon: Patreon.com/BeAwesomeTogetherShow

    • Website: BeAwesomeTogetherShow.com

    • Email: BeAwesomeTogether@gmail.com

    🎧 Listen on your favorite podcast platform and never miss an episode.

    Surf the Chaos, Enjoy the Ride!

    Show more...
    4 months ago
    1 hour 29 minutes 42 seconds

    Be Awesome Together
    BAT: Apps and Software part 3

    Are you tired of wrestling with your content calendar, juggling too many platforms, and wondering if “lifetime access” tools are worth it—or just a trap? In this episode of Be Awesome Together, Tyra and Charles roll into Part 3 of our “Apps & Software That Make Life Better” series. We dive deep into the social media management tools that actually work, which website builders are worth your time (and sanity), and some hidden gems like Wakelet, Obsidian, and e-ink devices for organization. We also talk about the real moment to invest in paid tools, how to make your content rhythm sustainable, and the secret sauce that keeps our Dragon Con Digital Media Track community thriving year-round.

    If you want a mix of practical tips, tech shortcuts, and a little chaos-surfing—this one’s for you.

    1. Pick tools that solve a specific problem now—don’t pay for features you “might” use later.

    2. Batch & pre-schedule content using free tiers of tools like Buffer or Later to save time without breaking the bank.

    3. Choose website builders based on your skill level: Weebly for ease, Wix for flexibility, WordPress if you can code.

    4. Engage back on social media—comments, story replies, and reposts boost your visibility far more than passive posting.

    5. Use central resources like Wakelet to organize links, show notes, or research into one shareable hub.

    “Pick one or two major features that absolutely solve a problem for you—and let that be the reason you pay for the app. Everything else is just bonus.” ~Charles McFall

    💥 Let’s Be Awesome… Together! 💥
    Don’t just listen—join the conversation, share your ideas, and surf the chaos with us.

    📲 Follow & Connect:

    • Instagram: @BeAwesomeTogetherShow

    • Facebook: Be Awesome Together

    • YouTube: Be Awesome Together

    • Twitch: BeAwesomeTogether

    • Patreon: Patreon.com/BeAwesomeTogetherShow

    • Email: BeAwesomeTogether@gmail.com

    🎧 Listen on your favorite podcast platform and never miss an episode.

    "Surf the Chaos, Enjoy the ride!"

    Show more...
    4 months ago
    1 hour 13 minutes 8 seconds

    Be Awesome Together
    To the Rescue – Help for the Creative Process with Apps, Tools, Websites & More (Part 2)

    Tired of being awesome alone? Charles and Tyra dive back in with Part 2 of the ultimate guide to software, apps, and tools that make your creative process smoother, faster, and more fun. From AI tools to project management hacks, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help creators get organized and save time.

    Actionable Takeaways:

    1. Streamline Your Editing:

    * Use DaVinci Resolve (free) combined with AutoCut AI to auto-select camera angles, remove dead space, and suggest B-roll footage—saving hours of manual editing.

    2. Leverage AI for Show Notes & Ideas:

    * Tools like ChatGPT or Gemini can turn transcripts into SEO-friendly show notes, brainstorm fresh content ideas, or even draft panel questions for events.

    3. Organize Projects Effectively:

    * Platforms like Asana, Trello, or Notion help break big projects into manageable tasks, set deadlines, assign responsibilities, and visually track progress.

    4. Automate Your Content Repurposing:

    * Opus Clips quickly converts long videos into short, shareable, captioned clips perfect for TikTok, Reels, and Shorts, boosting reach with minimal extra effort.

    5. Build Your Professional Brand:

    * Use a custom email domain (e.g., [yourshow@yourwebsite.com](mailto:yourshow@yourwebsite.com)) for credibility, and a link hub (like Linktree) to make all your content accessible in one click.

    ---

    Great Quote from the Episode:

    "Surf the chaos, enjoy the ride – because even in creative madness, you can still get things done." – Tyra Burton


    Smash that like button, subscribe, and ring the bell… or may you have the instant coffee kind of day you deserve.


    linktr.ee/beawesometogether

    Show more...
    4 months ago
    1 hour 13 minutes 7 seconds

    Be Awesome Together
    Inside the World of Uploads of Fun: Creating Content with Your Kids and Keeping It Safe

    Are you creating content with your family—or thinking about it?

    In this episode of Be Awesome Together, Josh from Uploads of Fun joins Charles to talk about what it really takes to build a family content brand the right way.

    "We’re not going to mortgage our future just to go viral. We're building something bigger—with our kids, not at their expense." — Josh, Uploads of Fun

    They dive into:

    • How Uploads of Fun went from hobby to full-time family brand

    • Why keeping kids safe online isn't optional—and how to actually do it

    • The hilarious birth of "Awkward Questions with Kids"

    • The behind-the-scenes rules they follow before hitting publish

    • Dealing with online trolls, harassment, and platform bans

    • Teaching kids entrepreneurship, video editing, and creative freedom

    • The story behind their first-ever original song

    • Why it's not about going viral—it's about building something real

    You'll also hear some great stories from Dragon Con, learn what happens when your kid gets followed into a public restroom by fans, and why sometimes the algorithm just makes no sense.

    If you're a creator, parent, or both—you need to hear this.

    Watch now and let's all be awesome together.

    Show more...
    5 months ago
    1 hour 12 minutes 18 seconds

    Be Awesome Together
    Join Tyra Burton, award-winning professor, social media strategist, and geek culture enthusiast, alongside Charles "Rock God of Podcasting" McFall for a weekly adventure in connection, creativity, and fandom. With over a decade of experience fostering dynamic discussions at Dragon Con, Tyra and Charles bring their passion for storytelling and community-building to the mic. Each episode dives into fresh discussions with creators, exclusive panels, and takeovers from fan-favorite personalities, all while celebrating the art of collaboration.