QOTW: Throughtout my life, I have been inspired by various people. In high school, the person was my English teacher. She went out of her way to help me with stories I wrote in my free time. Later on, that person was my nephew Chris. He saw sparkling diamonds where I just saw water. More recently, I would say my children were my inspiration to see the world from a different perspective. My oldest son, especially, had me get on my belly on the grass and watch what was happening below the grass. My children, as well as other children since, have helped me remember what it was like. Life was one adventure after another right in the back yard.
Brian! You should use these items you forget as an opportunity to use a cut to make it magically appear in your hand or some other prop container. Click you fingers, flash the screen white, etc, I think you get it😉
I would not know about Goulet without your videos, and with all the work you have put into everything it surely has helped you to grow. From now on you will be my go to for all pen related things. (I would consider it my way of giving back for the help you offer) Your wonderful customer and community outreach make want to buy from you, regardless if that means spending a few more dollars or not. So yes your spot on with question 5.
QOFTW answer: I try lo learn something from anyone around me, it really helps me grow as a person; so almost anyone I met can be counted, to some extent, as my source of inspiration. That includes you, Brian: your positive way of thinking is definitely something that I'd like to learn. That mindset really changes the way you see the world around you and it's wonderful. Thank you very much for being who you are and for what you and all the people of the Goulet Company do for us fountain pen enthusiasts! Changing topic a bit, I made a wonderful mistake on my Jinhao X750 with a Jowo EF nib: trying to make it a bit smoother by (mis)using the micro mash I've modified the nib so that the cross stroke is really thick (like a F size nib) but the downstroke is still a EF. I liked the result so much that I tried it later on my Lamy 2000 EF (yes, I did, and not without a lot of effort and sweat), with even better results! Now this is my favorite nib, very cool line variation (only later I discovered that is called Arabic Nib). It's not something I recommend doing for the faint of heart but It's nice to know that is possible to do. :)
Something I love about the Goulet Pen Co. videos is that everyone that appears on them who is an employee always has ink stains on their hands, seemingly regardless of their jobs in the company. I love that it is obvious that everyone is as passionate about their products as Brian is.
You have no idea how much I wish the Conklin Classic was available 6 months ago. I might have to "accidentally" break or lose a pen to make room for one of the Classics. Congratulations on the great looking pen. Once I figure out how to justify the purchase, I will buy it.
Brian, I think that part of your success is your EXCELLENT website. I, quite literally, spent hundreds and hundreds of hours researching fountain pens prior to making my first series of purchases. I can say by far and away, your youtube videos are amongst the best, but your website is by far and away better than any other site out there when it comes to information about the products you sell!! I know of no other website that has a place to compare nibs among different pens, that has detailed FULL measurements on the pens you stock, and generally complete information and writing samples for your stocked inks. I keep coming back to your site because of this. At times, I have even waited on inventory because I quite frankly don't care to shop at other sites. That said, I do wish you would stock some of the popular European inks - like Akkerman and KWZ, as they have some really interesting bottles (Akkerman) and offerings (both).
Collaborations with customers... I can only shake my head in amazement at the things you've done, been willing to do, and laughed through with your customers. Did all those gift certificates from the difficult word writing contest ever get processed? :) Thanks, Brian. I love your business, love your enthusiasm, love your principles, love your knowledge, and hope to see you succeed for many, many more years. I'm always headed your way first for my pen needs.
As a person who made easy A’s all the way through grad school, I’d say people who worked hard for their B’s and C’s are at a distinct advantage in this world. Learning how to work hard is invaluable. I “coasted” through school and, even though I have wondeful transcripts, my first two jobs were brutal because I didn’t know how to push through when something was truly difficult for me. Even now, I am always tempted to coast. If I ever have kids, I will praose their successes but I will make sure they are involved in some activities that don’t come naturally to them.
Totally agree. I had a very peaceful, sheltered childhood, was always top of my class almost effortlessly, got praised for my talents, and it took me a good 5-6 years after finishing high school to put my pieces back together after realizing life is not going to be like that. Getting used to some difficulties and hard work at an early age is certainly an advantage in REAL LIFE.
Enjoy the questions that get you talking about inspiration and business. Nice to see that light that clicks on in you. Last week watching the interview with Brian from Edison pens it was funny when he mentioned wanting to be the one answering the phone, emails, etc...I thought I saw Goulet Brian want to put his coach hat on and "teach" Edison Brian about delegation. lol. QOTW: I find inspiration in many places from my morning daily devotions, to a special aunt and uncle who meant the world to me and gave me a firm foundation for life, to fun things like MissVickyBee for TN notebooks, planning, coloring books and you Brian (and Rachel) & team for opening a door to a fun group of fountain pen/ink/paper people. You inspired me with your Instagram video of the view of the beautiful clouds from your recent flights. Nice reminder that the beautiful blue sky is still there even when our view can be blocked by storm clouds. Your passion on social media was a real treat for someone who has never flown. Thank you for taking the time to share your experiences!🤓🖋
Ha, I strongly suspect I'm also a customer of the beard oil company you mentioned and a subscriber to their channel. Always enjoy listening to the Q&As.
Oh, and when is *your* book coming out? ;) QOTW (a couple weeks late): Educators. My 6th grade teacher, Peggy Nielsen, and my high school journalism teacher, Wayne Seitz, provided such a profound impact that I've never forgotten them or the lessons they taught.
Please do top inks for students!! Some that will dry quick enough to turn a page in a notebook so the ink doesn’t smudge!! Are there any inks with quicker drying times that don’t feather, write well, and are not quick dry inks??
Paper does play a huge part in this, so keep that in mind. Sounds like you just want a really well behaved ink that dries quickly. That would be Pilot Iroshizuku inks (www.gouletpens.com/pilot-bottled-ink/c/185 ). It excels at everything, great daily ink. - Colin
Angie, I also recommend Noodler's Lexington Gray. It's a dark gray--darker than a pencil, and the finer the pen nib the darker it usually is. I'd go with a fine or extra fine nib for school notebook paper and whatever economical paper that tests are run off of the copiers with. You can get a bit of nice shading with a stub, but not so much that it'll irritate your teachers. The great thing is, because it's not a full black, it doesn't show through the page as much and it's easier to mark up for edits. It also doesn't go everywhere if you end up running through the rain with your notebook in arms. You might even be able to hit it with a highlighter as long as it's TRULY dry, but that may depend on what kind you're using. It's designed to bond to cellulose paper and and resist chemical attempts to fiddle with it.
Thank you so much the advice, I really appreciate it. I use clairfontain paper and a fine nib pilot metropolitan. Ive been using a pilot Iroshizuku ink and so far seems to be working great!! I will look into Lexington grey. It sounds great! :)
Angie 626 Cool! If you ever need a finer one, you can snag a Pilot Penmanship from Jetpens or Amazon and swap the nib. :) That one comes with an EF nib, but Goulet doesn't sell them.
I am inspired by anyone who knows what they like and can make a living off of it. I think of Goulet, Nike, Apple, bookstore owners, the list goes on......
It may be surprising to hear but a lot of people who collect knives eventually get interested in fountain pens. Pens and knives are both part of the edc/gear community. Mostly ballpoint and roller ball but a lot of us eventually find fountain pens and enjoy them. A lot of us are attracted to collkecting knives because of the level of detail and craftsmanship that go into high end folding knives which fountain pens share. They are both just very collectible in nature as well. It may benefit you to reach out to content creators in that community.
I enjoyed this Q&A a bit more than usual, can't say why but it was the content of course. I usually take away from each episode something that helps me with my pen passion in general, or something more private about my life,,, someone asks a question that expands the colour content of the canvas... This week was... You only coast downhill... It hit me across the face like a wet kipper, I thought, he's right, this last two years have been crap and I'd given up and just coasted, even with my pens inks and paper. Whaow, right, breaks are on and the turn about will happen then the drive will start again. Thank you. InCoWriMo is one example, I've not written back to the pen people who took the time to respond to my incowrimo last time, that is going to be my start... OK this may be off topic and a bit personal, but hey, somethings said on Q&A hit me write on the spot. So thanks, big time,,, Yeraguddun. Best wishes to all pen people. LeZc @@ media.giphy.com/media/13ZHjidRzoi7n2/giphy.gif .
Russell Brand. He turned his life around and now uses his experience to help to grow others (and not pretending he has all the answers). I enjoy the conversations he is part of, they always bring up something to think about regarding my own life.
So I'm having trouble deciding between the Conklin Nozac and an Edison Beaumont.Both look like good pens and seem to have good nibs but I can't really decide which one to get. The Visconti Van Gogh is also on my radar but I'm from Ohio so I kinda want one that is from Ohio. Any help would be great.
I would lean towards the Beaumont. Really like Edison nibs and the designs are great. The Nozac is still very new, so I would wait and see how people get on with it for a bit before purchasing. - Colin
New to fps, your company (can't wait to get my orders from GPC this week!), and these informational vids. I especially LOVE the backstories of pen names...like in this one. :-)
@@Gouletpens Today! I received my very first fountain pen (Noodler's Ahab Lapis Inferno) and ink (Liberty's Elysium). Could it be I fell in love with Brian's office wall color? :-) Thanks for asking...I'm off to play with my new goodies! :-)
I must either be living in a time warp, or in a very pen-friendly city: since the beginning of the year, I've found not just one, but TWO thriving, conveniently located stationery stores in my own hometown (Austin, TX). In fact, I'd been riding the bus past them both for years! One of them has already become a valued resource, the source of my first bullet journal, and the probable site of future pen and ink purchases.
The Goulet Pen Company Both stores are along Lamar Boulevard: “Paper Source” in the heart of downtown (near Whole Foods), and “Paper Place” further north, the one I like (next to Central Market). PP is the one that seems more geared towards pen users.
For your next q&a.. I have heard that it is not advisable to let others use your fountain pens..that. This will change the “write” of the pen.. I suspect this would be more if you have a gold nib.. btw heard this on Mont Blanc video. Also would this be more applicable if the other person is left handed...
I'm French and i sadly don't manage to get the names Brian gives at entrepreneurs ? On question 7, starting at 1"06 with Gary something? I might understand Sarah Blackly ?
Those were Gary Vaynerchuck, Simon Sinek, Sarah Blakely, Cathy Hughes, Dave Ramsey, and Pat Lenionci. The link the description goes to our blog as well which has Brian's answers in text form for tricky names like this just in-case! - Colin
What a misnomer on the architect grind. Normally architecture artists use technical pens that are very deliberately consistent and even in line weight. I guess with a vertical stub you will get more effortless shadows on all overhangings. Still would need a technical pen for detail.
The architect nib was made popular by Frank Lloyd Wright, which is why it is called that, and the hand (individual) lettering was done with pure vertical, thus the very thin line, and the horizontal being thick. I have one done by Nibs,com just for that purpose. It is not designed with cursive writing in mind and to get the greatest effect, the down-stroke must be straight, which is why it is often used with a straight edge, or being very skilled. Architectural notes are traditionally all caps.
Hi Brian. What was the name of the author you mentioned after Dave Ramsey and the book title please? Do you have a list of your Top Ten most recommended Business Books please? Thank you David
Ink does play a good part, as does nib size. Just generally, out of those, The TWSBI 580 (or Eco) tends to be the best writing experience. LAMY Logo has the same nib as all the other LAMY pens, so you're really just going for the aesthetic. Konrad has a flex nib which can take some time to master. FC Loom is a good option too, just limited in terms of nib size. - Colin
My inspirational figure is John Marsden, the author who wrote 'Tomorrow When the War Began' and creator and founding of Candlebark School, which my daughter goes to. An inspirational, rebel figure who is not afraid to buck the trend, do things his own way.
We're actually having issues uploading the video podcast currently! I think the last one was 191? We're working on fixing the issue, hopefully soon and we'll update then! - Colin
Anthony Grimm that’s a question for your doctor. I don’t know for certain, but from what I understand a latex allergy builds up over time with repeated exposure, so my limited understanding of it is that it’s probably best to steer clear of ebonite pens if you have a latex allergy. I’m no doctor though, so consult your physician or allergist. -Brian
Thanks Brian. I am a nurse and honestly couldn't find anything either way. Kinda figured since the process is similar to tires and most folks react to tires if they have a late allergy, it was a no-fly zone
yes, you are an entrepreneur, in the best sense of the word. just like there are preachers who give the profession a bad name, there are others that are faithful to God and positively affect multitudes of other people (as you and Rachel do). i have been especially inspired this past year by Richard Rohr, a Franciscan priest (and I am not even Catholic). Keep up the good work!
Brain, thanks so much for your answer to my question (nr. 5). I am super excited about it. I am currently doing some research on systemic leadership and your approach just fits this so well. Many leaders seem to focus on tasks and organizational matters, while your own persona (as a leader), the culture you're trying to built and relationships to other individuals falls short. Your attitude is so refreshingly positive. I learn a lot through your QAs and I bet I will come back to this in some conversations I'll have at Paperworld Frankfurt next week paperworld.messefrankfurt.com/frankfurt/en.html . Wish I could've caught you at your pen meetup in Heidelberg. Thanks again Brian - made my day.
I think that one needs to be very careful when reading "business" analysis... There is a huge difference between a financial analysis of a company and a sector... Whereas a consumer based analysis is vastly different.. a consumer in the stationary hobby supports pens, paper, pencils, leather covers and so on... So the stationary "category" actually comprises a very large range of products...therefore taken all together it could be doing far better ... Most retailers have a huge range of items that they sell .. so I would approach such analysis carefully... This maybe niche but very vibrant in terms of growth ...
Are you kidding that you are not sure if you can be classed as an entrepreneur - you are too humble Brian - you started a business from scratch & in a short time have grown it significantly every year, employ a good number of people, contributed to your local community, have increased & developed sales in a niche business area - you most certainly are an entrepreneur
Haha. The layout of the furniture made it look like you were sitting in the center of a cutout in a big office table. :D I was like, "Why is he doing that?" xD Just for fun, I guess. :)
If Goulet Pen Company ever wants a review of one of their pens/collaborations or something I'd recommend Nick Shabazz on youtube. He reviews mostly knives but has done some fountain pens and watches. Might be a little edgy for the Goulet brand but definitely someone who knows how to review a product. Even if you don't want him to do a public review he does private stuff. He also takes items he receives free for a review and sells it to give to a charity.
QOFTW answer: Throughout my 75 years, there have many people who have had inspirational impacts on my life. That being said, here are my top three: Dr. John MacArthur of Grace to You ministries, Dr. Stephen Covey of The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People fame, (I’ve had the privilege of meeting both of these men), and my wife, Wanda, who has been my loving marriage partner for over 47 years. Yes, I have been richly blessed!
Like the shelves in the background... "Jerk entrepreneurs" It takes a certain amount of hubris to create a business from nothing... i've worked for a lot of small business entrepreneurs.... most of them were, at best, jerks... I don't get that vibe from Brian.... maybe Colin or Lydia could PM me ;) QOTW: Dean Collins (the deceased photographer, not the actor) And Helmut Newton
On the subject of collaboration: www.reddit.com/r/mechanicalheadpens/ there is already a good following for Fountain pens, mechanical keyboards and fancy audio stuff. Could be something cool?
Heard knitting and fountain pens. Brain has stopped. There's actually a lot of knitters in many pen-related online groups in which I participate. JUST SAYING GUYS.
Have definitely noticed a lot of overlap between knitting & fountain pens! Even saw this fountain pen design on Ravelry: www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-pen-is-mightier - Colin
I'm a fountain pen newbie and i discovered fountain pens thanks to your old videos about a month ago. I watched all of what you made in your golden era (2012-2013) and i'm really unhappy with the situation now. I'm not a long-date fan, but i already miss the videos that you made once, the ink reviews, the FP 101 series, the ink nouveau series, the notebook reviews... and i feel like i've been really unfortunate to discover you now, and not in 2012. From the comments it's easy to understand that the channel is running completely on long-date fans, and videos of this type are uncompetitive and your channel will never grow if you don't start a series that can be interesting for the newcomers in your channel. In your first video you talked about a new generation of writers, but if you continue like this the channel will just die! I cannot live in the past (the golden era has finished from 3 years now), just start a new series or make new pen reviews or something, because as a new user and as rapresenter of a lot of young guys that discover the FP world only now, i want a "guide channel" to be a point of reference.
Well, strange how this dying channel has more views in the last 18 months than the previous 6 years combined! But I totally get your point, just the time commitment for full-fledged video is significantly harder as we've grown. That said, we're hoping to have a lot more video content this year. - Colin
I didn't mean to say that the channel is dying, i just said that it isn't as stimulating in terms of attracting new fans as it was 3-4 years ago. Anyway thanks for answering me, and i hope to see a lot of interesting videos on this channel in 2018.
I know, I was just joking around. This is definitely good feedback for this channel on-going, so I appreciate that. While not on YT, our blog does have a lot of content that could be interesting for you if you're curious (blog.gouletpens.com/ ). Should have more ink reviews in the coming weeks as well. - Colin
If Brian does not have the time, it would be cool if somebody else from the company could start doing new reviews of inks and pens and other similar types of content.
Ohhhhhhh, NOOOOOOOOOOO ! You’ve misspelled “stationery” of all gaffes !( stationary means immobile ). No wonder Stationery Stores are dying off : people can’t spell them !
I got my first order from your company today, I love everything from the product down to the way it was packaged. Your team and company is awesome!
Orlando Lucena awesome to hear!! -Brian
QOTW: Throughtout my life, I have been inspired by various people. In high school, the person was my English teacher. She went out of her way to help me with stories I wrote in my free time. Later on, that person was my nephew Chris. He saw sparkling diamonds where I just saw water. More recently, I would say my children were my inspiration to see the world from a different perspective. My oldest son, especially, had me get on my belly on the grass and watch what was happening below the grass. My children, as well as other children since, have helped me remember what it was like. Life was one adventure after another right in the back yard.
Brian! You should use these items you forget as an opportunity to use a cut to make it magically appear in your hand or some other prop container. Click you fingers, flash the screen white, etc, I think you get it😉
Thanks for correcting the sacred spelling of “ stationery “ - you’ve got it right. A great relief to all of us English majors !
I would not know about Goulet without your videos, and with all the work you have put into everything it surely has helped you to grow. From now on you will be my go to for all pen related things. (I would consider it my way of giving back for the help you offer) Your wonderful customer and community outreach make want to buy from you, regardless if that means spending a few more dollars or not. So yes your spot on with question 5.
QOFTW answer: I try lo learn something from anyone around me, it really helps me grow as a person; so almost anyone I met can be counted, to some extent, as my source of inspiration.
That includes you, Brian: your positive way of thinking is definitely something that I'd like to learn. That mindset really changes the way you see the world around you and it's wonderful.
Thank you very much for being who you are and for what you and all the people of the Goulet Company do for us fountain pen enthusiasts!
Changing topic a bit, I made a wonderful mistake on my Jinhao X750 with a Jowo EF nib: trying to make it a bit smoother by (mis)using the micro mash I've modified the nib so that the cross stroke is really thick (like a F size nib) but the downstroke is still a EF.
I liked the result so much that I tried it later on my Lamy 2000 EF (yes, I did, and not without a lot of effort and sweat), with even better results!
Now this is my favorite nib, very cool line variation (only later I discovered that is called Arabic Nib).
It's not something I recommend doing for the faint of heart but It's nice to know that is possible to do. :)
Something I love about the Goulet Pen Co. videos is that everyone that appears on them who is an employee always has ink stains on their hands, seemingly regardless of their jobs in the company. I love that it is obvious that everyone is as passionate about their products as Brian is.
It's both a rite of passage and badge of honor here at GPC! - Colin
That Fire Lines Conklin Classic makes my Ohio heart pretty happy. Might have to snag that one.
Matt Day nice! We were thinking about Ohio for this pen, because Conklin was headquartered in Toledo back in the day. -Brian
What's the ink on Brian's left hand pinky? He should explain every ink stain just for fun each episode :-D
Manuel Deubler haha, I wish I could remember! -Brian
You have no idea how much I wish the Conklin Classic was available 6 months ago. I might have to "accidentally" break or lose a pen to make room for one of the Classics. Congratulations on the great looking pen. Once I figure out how to justify the purchase, I will buy it.
Brian, I think that part of your success is your EXCELLENT website. I, quite literally, spent hundreds and hundreds of hours researching fountain pens prior to making my first series of purchases. I can say by far and away, your youtube videos are amongst the best, but your website is by far and away better than any other site out there when it comes to information about the products you sell!! I know of no other website that has a place to compare nibs among different pens, that has detailed FULL measurements on the pens you stock, and generally complete information and writing samples for your stocked inks. I keep coming back to your site because of this. At times, I have even waited on inventory because I quite frankly don't care to shop at other sites. That said, I do wish you would stock some of the popular European inks - like Akkerman and KWZ, as they have some really interesting bottles (Akkerman) and offerings (both).
That's great feedback, really appreciate it! Both Akkerman & KWZ are on our radar for 2018, love the look of some of their inks. - Colin
Collaborations with customers... I can only shake my head in amazement at the things you've done, been willing to do, and laughed through with your customers. Did all those gift certificates from the difficult word writing contest ever get processed? :) Thanks, Brian. I love your business, love your enthusiasm, love your principles, love your knowledge, and hope to see you succeed for many, many more years. I'm always headed your way first for my pen needs.
As a person who made easy A’s all the way through grad school, I’d say people who worked hard for their B’s and C’s are at a distinct advantage in this world. Learning how to work hard is invaluable. I “coasted” through school and, even though I have wondeful transcripts, my first two jobs were brutal because I didn’t know how to push through when something was truly difficult for me. Even now, I am always tempted to coast. If I ever have kids, I will praose their successes but I will make sure they are involved in some activities that don’t come naturally to them.
Totally agree. I had a very peaceful, sheltered childhood, was always top of my class almost effortlessly, got praised for my talents, and it took me a good 5-6 years after finishing high school to put my pieces back together after realizing life is not going to be like that. Getting used to some difficulties and hard work at an early age is certainly an advantage in REAL LIFE.
Enjoy the questions that get you talking about inspiration and business. Nice to see that light that clicks on in you. Last week watching the interview with Brian from Edison pens it was funny when he mentioned wanting to be the one answering the phone, emails, etc...I thought I saw Goulet Brian want to put his coach hat on and "teach" Edison Brian about delegation. lol. QOTW: I find inspiration in many places from my morning daily devotions, to a special aunt and uncle who meant the world to me and gave me a firm foundation for life, to fun things like MissVickyBee for TN notebooks, planning, coloring books and you Brian (and Rachel) & team for opening a door to a fun group of fountain pen/ink/paper people. You inspired me with your Instagram video of the view of the beautiful clouds from your recent flights. Nice reminder that the beautiful blue sky is still there even when our view can be blocked by storm clouds. Your passion on social media was a real treat for someone who has never flown. Thank you for taking the time to share your experiences!🤓🖋
Ha, I strongly suspect I'm also a customer of the beard oil company you mentioned and a subscriber to their channel. Always enjoy listening to the Q&As.
Awesome Brian!!! Thank you so much for helping with this question! I never would have thought to use a bent toothpick!
I love using simple, handy tools like this for my pen maintenance -Brian
Oh, and when is *your* book coming out? ;)
QOTW (a couple weeks late): Educators. My 6th grade teacher, Peggy Nielsen, and my high school journalism teacher, Wayne Seitz, provided such a profound impact that I've never forgotten them or the lessons they taught.
Please do top inks for students!! Some that will dry quick enough to turn a page in a notebook so the ink doesn’t smudge!! Are there any inks with quicker drying times that don’t feather, write well, and are not quick dry inks??
Paper does play a huge part in this, so keep that in mind. Sounds like you just want a really well behaved ink that dries quickly. That would be Pilot Iroshizuku inks (www.gouletpens.com/pilot-bottled-ink/c/185 ). It excels at everything, great daily ink. - Colin
Thank you for the recommendation Colin. I ordered some samples from the website, they came in today. It is exactly what I am looking for. Thank you!!
Angie, I also recommend Noodler's Lexington Gray. It's a dark gray--darker than a pencil, and the finer the pen nib the darker it usually is. I'd go with a fine or extra fine nib for school notebook paper and whatever economical paper that tests are run off of the copiers with. You can get a bit of nice shading with a stub, but not so much that it'll irritate your teachers. The great thing is, because it's not a full black, it doesn't show through the page as much and it's easier to mark up for edits. It also doesn't go everywhere if you end up running through the rain with your notebook in arms. You might even be able to hit it with a highlighter as long as it's TRULY dry, but that may depend on what kind you're using. It's designed to bond to cellulose paper and and resist chemical attempts to fiddle with it.
Thank you so much the advice, I really appreciate it. I use clairfontain paper and a fine nib pilot metropolitan. Ive been using a pilot Iroshizuku ink and so far seems to be working great!! I will look into Lexington grey. It sounds great! :)
Angie 626 Cool! If you ever need a finer one, you can snag a Pilot Penmanship from Jetpens or Amazon and swap the nib. :) That one comes with an EF nib, but Goulet doesn't sell them.
I am inspired by anyone who knows what they like and can make a living off of it. I think of Goulet, Nike, Apple, bookstore owners, the list goes on......
It may be surprising to hear but a lot of people who collect knives eventually get interested in fountain pens. Pens and knives are both part of the edc/gear community. Mostly ballpoint and roller ball but a lot of us eventually find fountain pens and enjoy them. A lot of us are attracted to collkecting knives because of the level of detail and craftsmanship that go into high end folding knives which fountain pens share. They are both just very collectible in nature as well. It may benefit you to reach out to content creators in that community.
I enjoyed this Q&A a bit more than usual, can't say why but it was the content of course. I usually take away from each episode something that helps me with my pen passion in general, or something more private about my life,,, someone asks a question that expands the colour content of the canvas... This week was... You only coast downhill... It hit me across the face like a wet kipper, I thought, he's right, this last two years have been crap and I'd given up and just coasted, even with my pens inks and paper. Whaow, right, breaks are on and the turn about will happen then the drive will start again. Thank you.
InCoWriMo is one example, I've not written back to the pen people who took the time to respond to my incowrimo last time, that is going to be my start... OK this may be off topic and a bit personal, but hey, somethings said on Q&A hit me write on the spot.
So thanks, big time,,, Yeraguddun.
Best wishes to all pen people.
LeZc
@@
media.giphy.com/media/13ZHjidRzoi7n2/giphy.gif
.
Russell Brand. He turned his life around and now uses his experience to help to grow others (and not pretending he has all the answers). I enjoy the conversations he is part of, they always bring up something to think about regarding my own life.
So I'm having trouble deciding between the Conklin Nozac and an Edison Beaumont.Both look like good pens and seem to have good nibs but I can't really decide which one to get. The Visconti Van Gogh is also on my radar but I'm from Ohio so I kinda want one that is from Ohio. Any help would be great.
I would lean towards the Beaumont. Really like Edison nibs and the designs are great. The Nozac is still very new, so I would wait and see how people get on with it for a bit before purchasing. - Colin
Beaumont! Great pen, and Brian Gray carrying on with quality American made. :)
New to fps, your company (can't wait to get my orders from GPC this week!), and these informational vids. I especially LOVE the backstories of pen names...like in this one. :-)
Glad we've been both educational & entertaining! What goodies are heading your way? - Colin
@@Gouletpens Today! I received my very first fountain pen (Noodler's Ahab Lapis Inferno) and ink (Liberty's Elysium). Could it be I fell in love with Brian's office wall color? :-) Thanks for asking...I'm off to play with my new goodies! :-)
I must either be living in a time warp, or in a very pen-friendly city: since the beginning of the year, I've found not just one, but TWO thriving, conveniently located stationery stores in my own hometown (Austin, TX). In fact, I'd been riding the bus past them both for years! One of them has already become a valued resource, the source of my first bullet journal, and the probable site of future pen and ink purchases.
One of my favorite cities in the US! Love it even more than they have embraced stationery & fountain pens. - Colin
The Goulet Pen Company
Both stores are along Lamar Boulevard: “Paper Source” in the heart of downtown (near Whole Foods), and “Paper Place” further north, the one I like (next to Central Market). PP is the one that seems more geared towards pen users.
For your next q&a.. I have heard that it is not advisable to let others use your fountain pens..that. This will change the “write” of the pen.. I suspect this would be more if you have a gold nib.. btw heard this on Mont Blanc video. Also would this be more applicable if the other person is left handed...
I'm French and i sadly don't manage to get the names Brian gives at entrepreneurs ? On question 7, starting at 1"06 with Gary something? I might understand Sarah Blackly ?
Those were Gary Vaynerchuck, Simon Sinek, Sarah Blakely, Cathy Hughes, Dave Ramsey, and Pat Lenionci. The link the description goes to our blog as well which has Brian's answers in text form for tricky names like this just in-case! - Colin
A Goulet Swatch Watch would kick ass!
What a misnomer on the architect grind. Normally architecture artists use technical pens that are very deliberately consistent and even in line weight. I guess with a vertical stub you will get more effortless shadows on all overhangings. Still would need a technical pen for detail.
The architect nib was made popular by Frank Lloyd Wright, which is why it is called that, and the hand (individual) lettering was done with pure vertical, thus the very thin line, and the horizontal being thick. I have one done by Nibs,com just for that purpose. It is not designed with cursive writing in mind and to get the greatest effect, the down-stroke must be straight, which is why it is often used with a straight edge, or being very skilled. Architectural notes are traditionally all caps.
CaptainWumbo what Zanz said...even I learned something there ;) the Architect nib is not intended for actual architectural drafting. -Brian
Hi Brian. What was the name of the author you mentioned after Dave Ramsey and the book title please? Do you have a list of your Top Ten most recommended Business Books please? Thank you David
It was Pat Lenionci and I know he's a fan of The Ideal Team Player (a.co/9kmpc3C ). I'll add the book recommendations to our Q&A spreadsheet! - Colin
Personally what flows and writes better Faber castel loom vs la my logo vs twisbi 580 vs noodler konrad or any sub $50 pen
Ink does play a good part, as does nib size. Just generally, out of those, The TWSBI 580 (or Eco) tends to be the best writing experience. LAMY Logo has the same nib as all the other LAMY pens, so you're really just going for the aesthetic. Konrad has a flex nib which can take some time to master. FC Loom is a good option too, just limited in terms of nib size. - Colin
My inspirational figure is John Marsden, the author who wrote 'Tomorrow When the War Began' and creator and founding of Candlebark School, which my daughter goes to. An inspirational, rebel figure who is not afraid to buck the trend, do things his own way.
anyone else having issues with the video podcast updating on apple podcasts? (the audio is updating for me - just not the video)
We're actually having issues uploading the video podcast currently! I think the last one was 191? We're working on fixing the issue, hopefully soon and we'll update then! - Colin
The Goulet Pen Company thanks! Glad to hear it's not me. I'll keep watching on TH-cam.
What is the blue ink in the architect nib pen?
That would Robert Oster Lake of Fire (www.gouletpens.com/robert-oster-lake-of-fire-50ml-bottled-ink/p/RO-50113 ). - Colin
Wow, you’ve met Eric from beardbrand? He is very cool, and I think his style works with fountainpens!
What does a fraudulent order look like? How do you catch a fraud order and how do you prevent that going forward?
I would be ALL OVER a Goulet/Eat.Sleep.Knit. giveaway. KNITTING.
Good to know! We'll have them on our radar going forward for potential partners. - Colin
Can people with a latex allergy use ebonite?
Anthony Grimm that’s a question for your doctor. I don’t know for certain, but from what I understand a latex allergy builds up over time with repeated exposure, so my limited understanding of it is that it’s probably best to steer clear of ebonite pens if you have a latex allergy. I’m no doctor though, so consult your physician or allergist. -Brian
Thanks Brian. I am a nurse and honestly couldn't find anything either way. Kinda figured since the process is similar to tires and most folks react to tires if they have a late allergy, it was a no-fly zone
nice shelves behind you Brian
yes, you are an entrepreneur, in the best sense of the word. just like there are preachers who give the profession a bad name, there are others that are faithful to God and positively affect multitudes of other people (as you and Rachel do). i have been especially inspired this past year by Richard Rohr, a Franciscan priest (and I am not even Catholic). Keep up the good work!
Brain, thanks so much for your answer to my question (nr. 5). I am super excited about it. I am currently doing some research on systemic leadership and your approach just fits this so well. Many leaders seem to focus on tasks and organizational matters, while your own persona (as a leader), the culture you're trying to built and relationships to other individuals falls short. Your attitude is so refreshingly positive. I learn a lot through your QAs and I bet I will come back to this in some conversations I'll have at Paperworld Frankfurt next week paperworld.messefrankfurt.com/frankfurt/en.html . Wish I could've caught you at your pen meetup in Heidelberg. Thanks again Brian - made my day.
I think that one needs to be very careful when reading "business" analysis... There is a huge difference between a financial analysis of a company and a sector... Whereas a consumer based analysis is vastly different.. a consumer in the stationary hobby supports pens, paper, pencils, leather covers and so on... So the stationary "category" actually comprises a very large range of products...therefore taken all together it could be doing far better ... Most retailers have a huge range of items that they sell .. so I would approach such analysis carefully... This maybe niche but very vibrant in terms of growth ...
Are you kidding that you are not sure if you can be classed as an entrepreneur - you are too humble Brian - you started a business from scratch & in a short time have grown it significantly every year, employ a good number of people, contributed to your local community, have increased & developed sales in a niche business area - you most certainly are an entrepreneur
Haha. The layout of the furniture made it look like you were sitting in the center of a cutout in a big office table. :D I was like, "Why is he doing that?" xD Just for fun, I guess. :)
If Goulet Pen Company ever wants a review of one of their pens/collaborations or something I'd recommend Nick Shabazz on youtube. He reviews mostly knives but has done some fountain pens and watches. Might be a little edgy for the Goulet brand but definitely someone who knows how to review a product. Even if you don't want him to do a public review he does private stuff. He also takes items he receives free for a review and sells it to give to a charity.
Yeah, I've seen a few of his FP videos, he definitely does good reviews. Good feedback for a potential collaboration! - Colin
You may want to check out the podcast Entre Leadership by Ramsey Solutions. Great interviews and resources for business professionals.
QOFTW answer: Throughout my 75 years, there have many people who have had inspirational impacts on my life. That being said, here are my top three: Dr. John MacArthur of Grace to You ministries, Dr. Stephen Covey of The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People fame, (I’ve had the privilege of meeting both of these men), and my wife, Wanda, who has been my loving marriage partner for over 47 years. Yes, I have been richly blessed!
I think I like that architect nib grind...
Like the shelves in the background...
"Jerk entrepreneurs"
It takes a certain amount of hubris to create a business from nothing... i've worked for a lot of small business entrepreneurs.... most of them were, at best, jerks...
I don't get that vibe from Brian.... maybe Colin or Lydia could PM me ;)
QOTW: Dean Collins (the deceased photographer, not the actor)
And Helmut Newton
On the subject of collaboration: www.reddit.com/r/mechanicalheadpens/ there is already a good following for Fountain pens, mechanical keyboards and fancy audio stuff. Could be something cool?
Answer to QOTW: Sir Robert Baden-Powell.
Heard knitting and fountain pens. Brain has stopped. There's actually a lot of knitters in many pen-related online groups in which I participate. JUST SAYING GUYS.
Have definitely noticed a lot of overlap between knitting & fountain pens! Even saw this fountain pen design on Ravelry: www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-pen-is-mightier - Colin
I may have just gotten the yarn for that :D
Crochet in there, too!
Yesss, I wanted to say the same :D I guess the link between them is that both are kind of "old school" and related to creativity and crafts.
I'm a fountain pen newbie and i discovered fountain pens thanks to your old videos about a month ago. I watched all of what you made in your golden era (2012-2013) and i'm really unhappy with the situation now. I'm not a long-date fan, but i already miss the videos that you made once, the ink reviews, the FP 101 series, the ink nouveau series, the notebook reviews... and i feel like i've been really unfortunate to discover you now, and not in 2012. From the comments it's easy to understand that the channel is running completely on long-date fans, and videos of this type are uncompetitive and your channel will never grow if you don't start a series that can be interesting for the newcomers in your channel. In your first video you talked about a new generation of writers, but if you continue like this the channel will just die! I cannot live in the past (the golden era has finished from 3 years now), just start a new series or make new pen reviews or something, because as a new user and as rapresenter of a lot of young guys that discover the FP world only now, i want a "guide channel" to be a point of reference.
Well, strange how this dying channel has more views in the last 18 months than the previous 6 years combined! But I totally get your point, just the time commitment for full-fledged video is significantly harder as we've grown. That said, we're hoping to have a lot more video content this year. - Colin
I didn't mean to say that the channel is dying, i just said that it isn't as stimulating in terms of attracting new fans as it was 3-4 years ago. Anyway thanks for answering me, and i hope to see a lot of interesting videos on this channel in 2018.
I know, I was just joking around. This is definitely good feedback for this channel on-going, so I appreciate that. While not on YT, our blog does have a lot of content that could be interesting for you if you're curious (blog.gouletpens.com/ ). Should have more ink reviews in the coming weeks as well. - Colin
If Brian does not have the time, it would be cool if somebody else from the company could start doing new reviews of inks and pens and other similar types of content.
I don't care, my son just told me he has two of your legos ;)
Ohhhhhhh, NOOOOOOOOOOO ! You’ve misspelled “stationery” of all gaffes !( stationary means immobile ). No wonder Stationery Stores are dying off : people can’t spell them !
Embarrassing! You know my deep shame that Stationery is the one word I always get wrong. :( - Colin
@@Gouletpens "stationERy" as in "lettERs"...is how I always remember it. :-)