volchek-blog

[volchek-blog]

I've long been thinking of getting a maid service for my lil studio in downtown. May just need to get in too of that for my mental health.

Declutter and Decriminalize

With all the things we must manage, with all the things going on in the world it's tough to keep our homefront in solid condition. I admit on most occasions I struggle with this myself. Organization has always been a passion of mine, but for some reason my whole life it has fully eluded me. I am Client X, you are Client X, the struggles of daily living are what keep us in a mental hole. Instead of building mental self regard and resilience, activities of daily living may get the best of us if we're not careful. Unfortunately some adults still cannot maintain a grip on this, and I'm not even talking about solely the population with mental health disorders. The truth reveals itself when we are weak, and when our mental meter hath runneth over, this is by default when we actually muster enough strength to look at ourselves in the mirror and finally tell ourselves, "stop being a bitch!"

Our Lovely Friend Anxiety in Our Homes

Decluttering your life I hope is a feeling we've all somewhat had from time to time, we remember that feeling of cleanliness, of fresh air, and the freedom from anxiety ridden goblins. Anxiety doesn't want to live in the clean house, it loves to be in the mix, in the deep clutter, have you ever watched those shows featuring Hoarding Disorders, anxiety is definitely in love with those spaces and within those spaces anxiety lives in our minds.

How do we help ourselves?

Awareness, take inventory of your resources, do you have a family willing to help, do you live with people willing to help, roommates etc, are you alone, can you sacrifice money for a maid if you can afford an extra biweekly expense, how much work really needs to be done? This is where the organization and time management toolboxes are key in the planning process. Prioritize hierarchy of responsibilities, this is where you delegate if you have help and then come up with a scheduled gameplan (every Saturday as a family we clean as a team, every Wednesday individual chores, Peter takes out trash, Molly does laundry, etc.).

The unfortunate thing is without a plan we all plan to fail, but it hits different when it's in our own homes, in our own backyards, there's a lingering feeling of failure, ticking reminders set to go off every time you pass the dirty stove, every time you neglect work that your boss told you not to forget, fear of failure is a big one and everyday we disappoint ourselves when we fail.

Decriminalization

Now I don't want to be too harsh on everyone, don't forget we're all in the same boat together, Client X is everyone, and WE are Client X. Yes, we have maybe been a little more procrastinating than we would've wanted, but we always have a chance to turn it around. The first step before we can even come close to making a plan is to forgive ourselves for our unreached wants, dreams and not think of them as shortcomings but as our own personal unique experiences that shaped us into today. We must take off the weighted blanket of the past. Letting go of that past self, we can do that by choosing to focus more on the present even if it takes way too much mental drainage at first. It takes practice to turn away thoughts in your mind and send them back into the River of Styx. It can be done, you can change into a more engaged version of yourself and focus on feelings of completion, accomplishment and the relief of having everything in its place.

Final Thoughts/Questions

What is the smallest step I can take right now? Can I use that momentum to take 5 more steps? 10 more? Where in my mind do I make that stop because of fatigue? Write that step down (I don't care if you stop on step 1 or step 50, bottom line is YOU being honest with YOURSELF).

What am I willing to do today, this week, this month to take this part of my life to the next level? What am I not willing to do?

You move your own bones...be safe friends, awareness is power.

[volchek-blog]

Finally got enough courage to post the video to the Love Burn Facebook page. My concern for the video was that because I was so avoidant in capturing people instead of asking for their consent (as per Burner's culture for radical consent). I had learned my lesson, but I haven't applied this lesson post Burn. I think there's daily opportunity for me to apply it especially that I live in downtown. But I'm too anxious to put myself out there, excuses come rushing into my mind and I welcome them as if they are my guests of honor. EXPELL THEM I MUST!

The amount of positive feedback for the video gives me confidence.

[volchek-blog]

The Screw That Shook My Teeth: A Lesson in Advocacy & Awareness

Biting Into the Unexpected

I never thought I’d have to worry about what’s inside my sandwich. But here I was, sitting in a Firehouse Subs, casually taking a bite when—BAM.

Time stopped as my side molar teeth had crushed into something uncrushable. At first I thought it was a piece of glass, but as soon as I went to fish it out with my tongue from the side of my mouth, my brain short-circuited — that awful, unmistakable sting of metal.

I spit out the contents of my mouth and out comes blob of what used to be a Cajun Southwest Chicken. Amongst the chucks of half chewed bit of the sandwich laid a screw.

A fuckin' screw in my sandwich. A literal stainless steel fuck-me-sideways screw!

Processing the Shock

I walked straight up to the counter, completely stunned. I barely had words. I couldn't belive that I have to say these words to the person who just handed me the sandwich. "Excuse me, there's a screw in my sandwich" I know I had terror written all over my face because the employees were just as shocked as I was. She took the plate with the sandwich for her examination and admitted where it likely came from, mentioning cleaning the food cover, and it must have come from the hinge. That's the last time I'll see that screw. At first she asked if I wanted a new sandwich, but this was nearly the end of it, so I took the refund.

At that moment, I was too stunned to take a photo—which, in hindsight, was a mistake. But honestly, who’s thinking about documentation when they just bit into a screw?

Instead of making a scene, I sat back down. And—you won’t believe this—I actually finished my sandwich. Not because I was okay with what happened, but because I was in shock. My brain just needed something normal to do.

The Delayed Realization

At first, I brushed it off. I got a refund, no big deal, right? But over the next few hours, I started noticing something… my teeth felt off.

It wasn’t pain, exactly. More like soreness along my upper jaw, as if something had absorbed a hard impact. I checked my teeth, and yep—a small chip.

Now, the gears in my head started turning:

Wait… is my filling okay?

What if there are microfractures I can’t see?

What if I have nerve damage that won’t show up until later?

And then I realized the bigger picture—

What if a kid had bitten into that?

What if someone broke a tooth completely?

What if I had bit into it with my front teeth?

A refund wasn’t enough. I had to follow up.

The Self-Advocacy Phase

I started doing the responsible thing—making a paper trail. ✅ Step 1: Dentist Appointment – I booked an X-ray to check for damage (though I had to wait a week). ✅ Step 2: Calling Firehouse Subs – I got in touch with the regional manager, who (without saying “screw”) confirmed she knew why I was refunded and said they had fixed the faulty equipment. ✅ Step 3: Insurance Claim – She also mentioned that their insurance could cover my dental costs. Now, this was serious enough that they were willing to pay up.

That’s when I knew—I wasn’t just imagining this. They knew they messed up.

The Psychological Side: Am I Just Overthinking This?

At the same time, I started questioning myself. My teeth weren’t hurting, just feeling weird.

No hot/cold sensitivity.

No major pain.

No problems chewing.

So why did I still feel sore? Was this real damage, or was I just hyperaware of that area?

Turns out, both things can be true.

Yes, my teeth took a real impact, and minor trauma can cause inflammation.

But also, my brain kept checking in on the area—making me notice it even more.

The more I paid attention, the more my mind amplified the sensation.

It’s the same reason a small injury hurts more when you think about it. Our brains are wired to focus on discomfort—especially after something shocking.

Lessons from the Screw Incident

This whole thing turned into more than just a bad meal. It became a lesson in self-advocacy, food safety, and mental awareness.

1️⃣ Advocate for Yourself – Businesses make mistakes, but that doesn’t mean you have to absorb the cost. If something happens, follow up. Document. Hold them accountable. 2️⃣ Trust Your Body, But Also Your Mind – Sometimes, pain is real damage. Sometimes, it’s just your brain on high alert. Recognizing the difference helps prevent unnecessary panic. 3️⃣ Act Fast, but Don’t Panic – I wish I had taken a photo of the screw, but I’m still handling this the right way—calmly, professionally, and with a clear plan.

What Happens Next?

Now, I wait for my dentist appointment. I’ll get the X-ray, see if there’s real damage, and make sure Firehouse’s insurance covers the bill.

Moral of the story? Always check your food. And if you bite into something that shouldn’t be there—don’t just accept a refund and move on. You deserve better than that.

[volchek-blog]

The Night Before Love Burn Trip: Packing More Than Just Gear

This is it. The car’s almost packed, the cameras are charged, and tomorrow, I’m on the road. Love Burn is calling, and this time, I’m showing up with more than just a ticket—I’m bringing my full arsenal of media gear, my creative instincts, and a hunger to reconnect with something I’ve been missing.

One of the things I’m most looking forward to is immersing myself in the art of Love Burn. It’s not just a festival—it’s a living, breathing art piece, filled with installations, performances, and creators who pour their souls into their work. I’ll be documenting the spectacle, capturing the essence of these creations through my cinema camera, my drones, and my photo booth. But beyond just filming, I want to experience the art—let it pull me in, inspire me, and remind me why self-expression matters. I want to meet the artists, hear their stories, and reconnect with the kind of creative energy that can only exist in a space like this. Networking isn’t quite the right word—it’s more like creative cross-pollination, where every conversation, every shared experience, might lead to something unexpected.

Lately, I’ve felt the disconnect—between work and self-expression, between documenting life and actually living it. Downtown Orlando, with its sea of 21-year-olds, has been making me feel like a relic instead of an artist. And somewhere along the way, between Virtual Open House and the daily grind, I let my creative pulse slow down. Love Burn is my reset button.

I want to come back from this experience recharged, filled with new energy from the people I meet and the moments I capture. I want to break through socially, make friends, and just exist in a space where connection feels natural. And if I can shake off a little of my awkwardness around women in the process? Even better. Not the goal, but a welcome side quest.

This trip feels like a full-circle moment. A decade ago, I almost went to Burning Man but chose school instead. I still wanted to experience that energy, so I went to the decompression party in LA Historic Park afterward. That night, my car got broken into, and everything I owned was stolen. As a student, most of my life was in that car—clothes, documents, even a cherished lens that I never got back. It was a brutal loss, a forced reset that shaped my next steps. Now, more than ten years later, I’m stepping into burn culture again, but this time on my own terms.

So, here we go. Packing up. Taking a deep breath. Tomorrow, I hit the road. Love Burn, I’m ready for you.

[volchek-blog]

The Weight of Unspoken Words: A Personal Reckoning

Confronting the unconscious parts of myself

I made a hurtful comment, ending a relationship I was growing into. Jordon Peterson describes the female archetype as the force that challenges men to become more than they are, confronting their flaws and pushing them toward transformation. Why did I hurt her? This was the question I started my self-reflection journey in the last 24 hours I had with her. I was looking forward to spending time with her the weekend, but that's not how the weekend turned out - and I kept it to myself. I thought I should shut up and deal with it, accept the fact that she arrived at 10p Saturday night, and wanted to do her own thing on Sunday. I had to accept that she turned down my invitation for a mid-day hockey game and chose to hang out by herself at EPCOT. So there I was all by myself at the hockey game.

By the time we saw each other again, it was eight in the evening, and she was leaving the next day. I was upset - but I committed myself to keep it to myself. Keeping quiet was my mistake. What was I so afraid to lose? Was I afraid to lose her? Afraid to disrespect her autonomy? Was I afraid that if I spoke my truth, it would reveal that I was incompatible with her? I wasn’t ready to face any of these insecurities. No, I wasn’t just respecting her autonomy—I was avoiding confrontation. So instead, I buried my feelings, thinking they would disappear. They didn’t. They calcified. And eventually, they found their way out in the worst possible way. I made a comment that ended up being the topic the entire evening, and days to come. It hurt her. Perhaps in some twisted fucked-up subconscious way, that's why I made that comment - to hurt her because I was hurting.

When Suppressed Feelings Surface as Spite

I made a split-second decision to say what I said, in a moment of subconscious spite that ultimately caused me more loss than anyone else. And that’s when it hit me: how many times in my life have I done this without even realizing it? How many moments of pain have I let transform into quiet, destructive acts of defiance that did nothing but add to my suffering, and in the end hut others. How many of my relationships ended or have taken a wrong turn because I was afraid to speak up when I should have? Instead of speaking up I let my hurt ferment into some stinky hurtful comment. Ironically not only has it nothing to do with any of my hurt, but now shifts the scene entirely about my attack on the person. Drifting the conversation away from what I should have spoken up about in the first place.

The Hardest Lesson: Owning My Reactions

The most humbling realization in all of this is that I can’t control how others act, but I can control how I respond. My upset over not spending the time with her as I had imagined wasn’t the problem—the problem was my inability to sit with it, acknowledge it, and communicate it in a way that was true to myself and respectful to her. Instead, she was insulted, and any chances of my upset being heard were nullified.

So, here’s what I’ve learned:

Respecting autonomy doesn’t mean silencing myself. I can honor another person’s choices while still expressing my own feelings openly and honestly.

Pain that isn’t processed will find a way out—often in destructive ways. It’s better to confront emotions when they arise rather than letting them fester and erupt in moments of weakness.

Spite is a trap. Acting out of hurt only creates more pain. I have to stay vigilant when this emotion arises and follow it back to its source of pain. To bring the unconscious into the conscious. Choosing to respond with clarity, maturity, and self-respect is the only real way forward.

Moving Forward

I don’t share this as a way to self-flagellate, but rather as a way to take accountability. To acknowledge the parts of myself that still need work. To recognize that personal growth isn’t about getting it right all the time—it’s about seeing our mistakes clearly and choosing to do better next time.

This realization isn’t a magic fix. I know there will be moments ahead where I’ll feel the pull of old patterns. But at least now, I see them for what they are. And seeing them is the first step to breaking free from them.

My Apology

I want to apologize to you in a way that brings both of us closure, because I believe an apology only holds weight when it comes from true understanding. After taking time to really sit with everything that happened, I’ve realized where I went wrong, and I want to share that with you.

Looking back, I can see that I was upset that our time together didn’t unfold the way I had imagined. But instead of expressing that in a clear and honest way, I buried those feelings. I told myself it was out of respect for your autonomy—that I didn’t want to pressure you or make you feel controlled. But the truth is, I wasn’t just respecting your autonomy; I was avoiding confrontation. I was afraid that if I voiced how I really felt, it might mean we weren’t as compatible as I wanted us to be.

And when we suppress our emotions like that, they don’t disappear. They build up, and eventually, they find a way out. In my case, they came out in an unkind way, in a comment that felt personal and hurtful to you. That was never my intention, but I see now that my inability to handle my own disappointment led me to act in a way that disrespected you—something I was trying so hard to avoid in the first place.

Carl Jung speaks of the anima

The feminine force brings light to the unconscious parts of a man, challenging him to confront what he might otherwise leave in the shadows. I can’t ignore that, in some way, this experience has done that for me. It’s forced me to see where I still have work to do, and while I always seek growth, I regret that this particular lesson came at her expense.

Originally posted on 2/8/25 via ghost platform

[volchek-blog]

LoveBurn Fest: The Tug of War

I started this week entertaining my mind with how LoveBurn would turn out—camping with the poly-girl I've been seeing, imagining how it would all work out, maybe even finding a rhythm in the chaos. I know she said she'd gonna do her own thing, so I have no expectations other than to spend some time with her here and there. I was picturing the energy, the adventure, the possibility of making it something meaningful. I was ready to step into it, to embrace the unpredictability of it all.

But then came the phone call.

She told me she wants to go as friends, because when she stayed over the weekend, a few days ago, I made a rude remark and hurt her. But the truth is - I was hurt too. We haven't spent time together in over a month, so when she said she's going to come stay w/ me for the weekend, I was excited - but it turned out she came here Saturday night, and did her own thing all day Sunday. We hardly spend any time together. I was upset but I tried to hide it - and it came out sideways in a rude remark. I've had my anima moment Carl Jung would be proud of. She really made me recognize a pattern within myself where instead of hiding my upset, I need to be honest and share my feelings so that I don't end up hurting people for unknown reasons to them. "We're going as friends" shift makes the Love Burn equation completely different. And we're just supposed to camp together? Ergh so dramatic, and emo. Not the vibe I want!!! I didn’t want to be orbiting around someone who had so casually redefined our connection.

At first, I thought that was it, I'm not going.

But now, here I am, reconsidering. It’s not that the situation has changed—I still got the ticket through her, and she’s still going to be there—but something inside me is shifting. Maybe I can flip this into an experience that’s mine. Maybe I don’t need to be defined by the way this all started. Maybe this is my chance to reclaim the trip, redefine it on my own terms. All I need is to find a different camp.

Tomorrow is the last day to transfer tickets, so by then, I’ll have my answer. Maybe I need to just sit with the discomfort, let time do its thing, and stop trying to force a resolution before it’s ready. Whatever happens, at least I’ll finally be out of this limbo, and that alone will be a relief.

origianlly posted on 2/5/25 via ghost platform

[volchek-blog]

Counting Calories at 2AM: A Loveburn Prelude

We met online but never connected in real life—until the universe stepped in. It was an EDM event I was photographing, a flash of recognition, and suddenly, she wasn’t just a profile anymore. She was a real person, standing there, glowing under the stage lights, completely unaware of the small shift in fate that was happening. That’s how it started.

Since then, things have been unpredictable. She lives about an hour and a half away, which adds its own set of challenges, but I even spent Christmas with her and her mom. And I’ve realized something—she moves through the world in a way that keeps me on my toes. She has strong opinions, a sharp mind, and a way of looking at things that’s different from my own. Especially relationships - she's polyamorous. I've chosen to continue to date her and challenge myself.

I keep wondering what exactly draws me to her. She reminds me of some character in an indie film. She’s a bit chaotic, unfiltered, and unpredictable. Recently she visited me after not seeing each other for a while and we went to a club, and at the end of the night, she ended up eating street hot dogs at 2AM and chased them with macaroons from 7Eleven. That's a lot of food before bed. Although we had a cute moment where she'd give me packages to read the nutritional information to make a better dietary choice for her. After giving her some hard time around late-night food, she calls me militant, I make an observation, and for a moment, I hear echoes of my Soviet upbringing, where words carried the weight of discipline and expectation. She makes me think about who I am, in ways I wasn’t expecting.

Now, we’re going to Loveburn together. Together in the loosest sense of the word.

When she invited me to join her, she made it clear - we're not going together in the traditional sense, and not to expect to hang out with her as she's gonna be running around doing her own thing, with other people ... she's polyamorous.

In other words, we’re showing up at the same burn, and camping in the same area, but I don’t think I’ll actually be spending much time with her. And at the end of the day, we’ll return to the same camp, two separate tents side by side. And that’s where my mind starts spinning. What if I hear things from her tent? What if she hears things from mine? What kind of weird, unspoken realities will this festival highlight?

And then there’s the practical part. Loveburn isn’t just some easy festival with food trucks and safety nets. You have to be completely self-reliant—pack your own food, your own water, your own everything.

Yes I'm anxious. My what-if imagination is running wild. But I’m still going.

Maybe I’m hoping this trip will give me clarity—about her, about myself, about why I keep finding myself in these strange, layered relationships. Maybe I’ll walk away from it knowing we’re better apart. Or maybe I’ll discover that the messiness, the unpredictability, is exactly what keeps me coming back.

Or maybe, in the end, Loveburn is just a four-day distraction.

I guess I’ll find out soon enough.

[volchek-blog]

Saying Yes, Saying No, and the Conundrum of Intentional Dating

I’ve been thinking a lot about effort—where I put it, where I don’t, and what happens when I let things unfold without much thought. That applies to a lot of things in my life, but today, I’m thinking about it in the context of dating.

For the past few years, my approach to dating has been mostly unintentional. I’ve taken what comes my way, saying yes to opportunities that present themselves rather than actively defining what I want. It’s not that I’ve been unhappy with this approach—it’s just that, over time, I’ve started to notice a pattern.

At first, saying yes feels easy. It keeps things moving. But after a while, I look back and wonder: Did I just spend my time on something I never really wanted in the first place?

The Aha Moment: Wasted Time Isn’t Just About Time

I’ve had experiences where I was upfront—clear that I wasn’t looking for something serious or that certain aspects of the relationship weren’t what I wanted long-term. And yet, things continued for a while, simply because they could. The momentum carried them forward. And that’s where the realization hit me:

Just because something keeps moving doesn’t mean it’s moving in the right direction.

I can justify these moments by saying, Well, I was honest, so no harm done. But the truth is, the harm isn’t just to the other person—it’s also to me. That time could have gone into something more aligned with my goals, whether in relationships or in building my business. And if I knew it wasn’t going anywhere, why did I let it continue? The answer is simple: because saying no is harder than saying yes.

The Guilt of Saying No vs. The Weight of Stringing Things Along

This is where I’ve struggled most—understanding that I’m not responsible for how someone else feels when I say no. That’s a hard concept for me to internalize because, for most of my life, I’ve felt that I am responsible. Saying no feels like I’m actively causing someone pain, and that discomfort makes it tempting to avoid rejection altogether.

But when I zoom out, the alternative feels even worse. Stringing things along—delaying an inevitable ending—means I’m playing a role in something that isn’t real. It’s like keeping a door open not because I want to walk through it, but because closing it feels like a burden.

And that’s the real conundrum: On one hand, rejecting someone might hurt them in the moment. On the other hand, keeping something going just for the sake of it cheapens the entire experience for both people involved.

When I frame it like that, the choice becomes clearer. If my goal is to be intentional with my time, energy, and relationships, then saying no—when I know a connection isn’t right—isn’t cruel. It’s actually an act of respect.

What Does Intentional Dating Even Look Like?

This leads me to another reflection: I’ve never really sat down and defined what I want in a relationship. I’ve avoided it, maybe because it felt easier to let things happen rather than risk confronting what I might not find. But if I’m going to shift toward being more intentional, I need to imagine what that actually means.

So far, I know this:

I want a partner who is genuinely supportive, not just on the surface. Someone who engages with my goals, brainstorms with me, and challenges me in ways that push me forward.

I want clarity and alignment in values, especially when it comes to long-term goals. One major example? Kids. Most women I meet already have children and aren’t looking to have more, and that’s something I can’t ignore because I'm starting to want kids as I feel more financially and personally secure.

I want reciprocity—not just in effort, but in interest and engagement. Someone who is as curious about me as I am about them.

I want honesty, both from my partner and myself. That means recognizing when something isn’t working and having the courage to say so.

Bringing It All Together

If there’s one thing I want to take away from this reflection, it’s that I don’t want to keep living by default. I don’t want to say yes just because it’s easier than saying no. I don’t want to keep moving without knowing if I’m heading somewhere I actually want to go.

Maybe the first step isn’t about finding the perfect partner. Maybe it’s about practicing the habit of asking myself, Is this aligned with what I want? And if the answer is no, having the confidence to act on it.

Because at the end of the day, intentionality isn’t about control. It’s about clarity. And that clarity is something I’m finally ready to create.

originally posted on 1/15/25 via ghost platform

[volchek-blog]

Navigating Chaos: Reflections on Boundaries in Dating and Life

Lately, I’ve been reflecting on how unstructured my approach to dating and relationships has been—chaotic, not in a dramatic sense, but in how scattered and improvised it feels. Whether it’s saying yes to whoever reaches out first or relying on random moments of connection through online dating, there’s been little intention behind it.

This mirrors other areas of my life, where I often step into the unknown and figure it out as I go. While I value my ability to adapt, I’m realizing the cost of this lack of structure: time wasted, connections that don’t align with what I truly want, and the energy spent chasing rather than choosing.

The solution? Boundaries. I’ve never thought much about them before, but now I see how they could help me create clarity—not just in dating, but in life. Even something as simple as setting a routine, like five minutes of meditation in the morning and evening, feels like a step toward exercising that “boundaries muscle.”

Online dating has its challenges too. Profiles with little substance make it hard to connect, and I’ve found myself relying on chance rather than intention. But maybe it’s less about finding the right person and more about working on myself—building the confidence to not need external validation and creating a sense of balance between personal growth and companionship.

This year, I’m focusing on creating structure, starting with routines for myself and rethinking how I approach relationships. It’s not about perfection, but about showing up with purpose. I’m beginning to see how the chaos in my dating life reflects a broader pattern in how I approach the world—improvisational and open-ended, but often without clear direction.

By starting small—whether it’s a consistent workout routine, daily meditation, or setting clearer intentions for how I spend my time—I hope to find a healthier balance. Maybe it’s not about chasing the “right” person, but about becoming the right version of myself, one with clarity, confidence, and boundaries firmly in place.

origitnally posted on 1/7/25 via ghost platform

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Building Systems: Lessons from My Flat Fee MLS Listing

January 6th, the first week of the new year, and I’m already neck-deep in the kind of work I dreamed about doing two or three years ago. Today, I listed a flat fee property—a milestone that feels both exciting and chaotic. Reflecting on the process, I see not just what I accomplished, but what I need to refine to keep moving forward.

This was my fourth time listing a property on the MLS, and every time I do it, I’m reminded how detailed and tedious it can be. The last time I touched the MLS system was back in October, and diving back in after months felt like trying to navigate uncharted waters. To make it harder, my day was full of interruptions: agents calling about photos, my own distractions with social media, and the endless juggling that comes with running a business. Yet, I pushed through. I promised the owner the listing would be live by noon, and while I missed that mark by a couple of hours, I got it done.

From Chaos to Clarity

What this experience taught me is that my approach has been chaotic because I don’t have a system in place yet. It reminds me of when I first started in real estate photography—those early days when I didn’t have workflows and everything felt a bit improvised. But now, I can walk into a home, shoot efficiently, and deliver top-notch results. I know I can bring that same structure and confidence to this process, but it starts with a system.

The Plan Moving Forward

In an ideal world, the MLS listing process shouldn’t take more than two hours. To make that happen, I need to prioritize preparation and communication. Here’s how I envision it:

Gather Everything Upfront: Before I even think about starting the listing, I’ll require all paperwork and details from the homeowner. Nothing happens until I have the MLS worksheet completed.

Set Clear Expectations: Let the homeowner know the listing will go live within five days of the contract. This gives us both a clear timeline to work toward.

Focus on Execution: Once everything is in hand, I’ll block out the soonest uninterrupted two-hour window to get it done. No distractions, just focused work.

Why This Matters

This flat fee listing symbolizes more than a transaction—it represents the intersection of my creativity and my business acumen. It’s a step toward disruption, something I’m drawn to as someone who grew up during the collapse of the Soviet Union. Disruption, for me, is about building toward a better future, and this flat fee model feels like a way to do that—not just for me but for the homeowners I work with.

By building this system, I’m not only refining my process but also proving to myself that I can scale this idea into something meaningful. It’s not just about listing homes; it’s about creating a premium, personal service that stands out in a crowded market.

Today was a reminder that even in chaos, there’s progress. And with the right systems in place, I know there’s a way to turn this chaos into clarity. That’s why I’m committing to building a highly functional website for my flat fee service in the next 90 days—one that not only educates homeowners about what I offer but also helps turn their visits into action.

oriognally posted on 1/6/25 via ghost platform

[volchek-blog]

Yesterday, I wrote about invalidation—how it’s often unintentional yet leaves lasting marks in relationships. Today, I found myself revisiting this idea through a conversation with my mom that started over something as simple as a family photo.

It’s a familiar situation: my sister declined to join a New Year’s photo, something she’s consistently chosen not to do. My mom, clearly upset, made a remark about how my sister’s absence might leave her kids without any photos of their mother. Though I understood her frustration, the way she expressed it felt heavy—more like blame than concern.

In the moment, I tried to offer a different perspective: “Maybe sharing your story about how much you value photos of your own mom would help her understand why this matters to you.” But instead of softening the moment, my suggestion created defensiveness, leading to silence and tension.

The Bigger Picture

This moment wasn’t just about the photos; it was about the emotions behind them. My mom’s comment reflected her deeper fears—of family traditions fading, of moments lost to time. My sister’s decision likely came from her own need for boundaries or comfort in a situation where she felt pressured. And I, trying to mediate, found myself unintentionally caught in the middle of their unspoken emotions.

Moments like these remind me of the complexity of relationships. They’re not just about what’s said, but the emotions, histories, and patterns that underlie every word.

What This Means for Growth

Reflecting on today’s experience, I see how much I still have to learn about balancing empathy with action:

Validation as a Bridge: Acknowledging someone’s feelings doesn’t mean agreeing with them—it’s about creating space for their emotions to exist.

Pausing Before Reacting: Emotions can flare up quickly, especially when they tap into past wounds. Taking a breath before responding helps break the cycle.

Seeing Beyond the Surface: My mom’s remark wasn’t just about the photos; it was about her fear of losing connection. My sister’s refusal wasn’t just about the moment; it was about maintaining her sense of autonomy.

Why I Write

This blog has become more than a space to share my thoughts—it’s my way of processing experiences, much like the character in Memento writes reminders to navigate his world. Documenting these moments helps me build a roadmap, not just for myself but for anyone who finds themselves navigating similar dynamics.

orignally posted on 1/5/25 via ghost platform

[volchek-blog]

Breaking the Cycle of Invalidation: Reflections on Relationships, Culture, and Self-Compassion

Invalidation is one of those quiet forces in life—something we often don’t recognize until we feel its impact. It’s that subtle dismissal of your feelings, the quick “You’re overreacting,” or the shrug when you open up about something important. Invalidation isn’t always intentional, but it leaves a mark, shaping how we see ourselves and how we connect with others.

For me, this realization didn’t come all at once. Growing up in a home influenced by the Soviet school system, where structure and authority reigned supreme, invalidation wasn’t just a momentary occurrence—it was a way of life. The voices of conformity and control seeped into my family dynamics, shaping my inner dialogue in ways I’m only now starting to untangle.

But invalidation doesn’t just stop at childhood or family—it follows us into adulthood, creeping into our relationships, both romantic and platonic. And as I’ve started exploring modern relationship models like polyamory, I’ve found myself asking: How much of our relationship struggles are tied to these patterns of invalidation? Are alternative models a solution, or do they sometimes amplify the problem?

This post is a reflection on those questions. It’s about tracing the roots of invalidation—whether they come from culture, upbringing, or personal insecurities—and exploring how they shape our interactions today. Most importantly, it’s about finding ways to break the cycle, both in our relationships with others and within ourselves.

Invalidation as a Cultural and Generational Force

Invalidation isn’t just an individual behavior—it’s often rooted in the culture and systems we grow up in. In societies with authoritarian influences, like the Soviet Union where I was born, the need for conformity often suppresses individuality. This creates environments where emotions, personal desires, and even independent thoughts are routinely dismissed.

Growing up, I saw this firsthand in my family. My mother, a teacher in the Soviet school system, carried the weight of a culture that valued obedience over expression. In her role as an educator, she wasn’t just imparting knowledge; she was a product of a system that prioritized rules, control, and discipline. At home, this often translated into invalidating responses—dismissals of feelings or ideas that didn’t fit within the rigid framework she’d been conditioned to uphold.

It wasn’t malicious. In fact, I believe it came from a place of care—her way of preparing me for a world that demanded compliance. But the impact was profound. Those moments of invalidation planted seeds of self-doubt that grew into an internal dialogue mirroring her voice: This idea isn’t good enough. This feeling doesn’t matter. This dream isn’t realistic.

Research shows that cultures with authoritarian roots often reinforce these patterns. Hierarchical systems suppress dissent and emotional exploration, emphasizing what is “right” over what is authentic. Children raised in these environments internalize these values, carrying them into adulthood. This generational transmission of invalidation shapes not just how we communicate with others, but how we speak to ourselves.

Modern Relationships and the Role of Invalidation

As society evolves, so do our approaches to relationships. Models like polyamory, ethical non-monogamy, and situationships have emerged as alternatives to the traditional frameworks of monogamy. On the surface, these dynamics often promise greater freedom, authenticity, and flexibility—an escape from the rigid expectations of the past. But beneath this newfound openness, invalidation still plays a significant role, shaping how we connect with one another.

One of the most intriguing aspects of these alternative models is their potential to address invalidation. In polyamory, for instance, the emphasis on open communication and radical honesty can create a space where partners feel fully seen and valued. Rather than expecting one person to meet all emotional needs, polyamory allows individuals to seek validation from multiple connections, diversifying the emotional support system.

Yet, these models are not immune to the challenges of invalidation. In some cases, the appeal of variety and novelty might mask a deeper avoidance of conflict. When faced with the difficult or "negative" aspects of a partner—insecurities, disagreements, or unmet needs—it can be tempting to turn to another relationship for validation rather than working through the discomfort. Invalidation here takes the form of avoidance: a refusal to engage with the full spectrum of someone’s humanity.

The question becomes: are alternative relationship models a solution to invalidation, or do they sometimes serve as an escape? The answer likely depends on the individuals involved. For some, these models offer a chance to grow and communicate in ways they never could in traditional frameworks. For others, they may inadvertently perpetuate the same patterns of avoidance and self-doubt that invalidation fosters.

Breaking the Cycle: From Awareness to Action

Invalidation, whether external or internal, thrives in the absence of awareness. The first step in breaking its hold is recognizing when and how it happens. For many, this starts with catching those subtle, almost reflexive moments of invalidation—when you dismiss your own ideas as "stupid" or brush off someone else’s feelings as "no big deal." These moments might seem small, but over time, they create a pattern that erodes trust, connection, and self-worth.

The real challenge lies in understanding the why behind invalidation. Why do we invalidate ourselves or others? Is it fear—fear of being wrong, fear of conflict, or fear of vulnerability? Or is it a learned behavior, passed down through family dynamics or cultural conditioning? By shifting focus from what is being invalidated to why it’s happening, we create space for curiosity and growth.

In Buddhism, the concept of dukkha—often translated as suffering or dissatisfaction—offers a helpful analogy. Dukkha isn’t just about life’s big pains; it’s also the subtle, ongoing discomfort caused by clinging to unhelpful patterns or resisting reality. Invalidation is a form of dukkha. When we invalidate ourselves, we cling to narratives of unworthiness, creating unnecessary suffering. When we invalidate others, we resist their reality, disrupting connection. The process of breaking these patterns is like "burning the bridge" to dukkha—letting go of the habits and narratives that perpetuate emotional pain.

Finally, breaking the cycle isn’t just about yourself—it’s about how you show up for others. Practicing validation in your interactions can create a ripple effect, fostering trust and emotional safety in your relationships. Whether it’s a partner, a friend, or even a stranger, the simple act of saying, I hear you or That makes sense can be profoundly healing.

Strengthening Relationships Through Validation

This category focuses on fostering healthier relationships by practicing validation for others, building trust, and creating emotional safety.

Affirmations to Practice Validation in Relationships

“I can listen without needing to fix or judge.”

“Their feelings are real and valid, even if I don’t fully understand them.”

“It’s okay to hold space for their emotions without taking them on as my own.”

“I can choose curiosity over defensiveness in difficult conversations.”

“Validation is not agreement—it’s acknowledgment.”

“I value their perspective, even when it’s different from mine.”

“I can pause and reflect before responding to ensure I’m being supportive.”

“I can create a safe space for them to feel seen and heard.”

Questions to Deepen Understanding and Foster Validation

Am I fully listening, or am I waiting for my turn to speak?

What are they really trying to communicate beneath their words?

How can I show them that I hear and value what they’re saying?

Am I responding with empathy, or am I jumping to solutions or defenses?

What assumptions might I be making about their feelings or experiences?

How would I want someone to respond if I were in their position?

What can I say to reflect back what I’ve heard and validate their emotions?

Am I creating a space where they feel safe to be vulnerable?

Affirmations to Reframe Your Inner Dialogue

“I am allowed to explore ideas without needing them to be perfect.”

“This thought matters because it’s mine.”

“I deserve the same patience and kindness I give to others.”

“My worth is not tied to this outcome—I’m already enough.”

“Every small step I take is a victory toward my growth.”

“It’s okay to feel uncertain; clarity comes with time and action.”

“I trust my intuition and creativity to guide me forward.”

“My mistakes are lessons, not proof of failure.”

Questions to Investigate Self-Invalidation

Whose voice do I hear when I doubt myself?

What fear or belief is driving this invalidating thought?

What would I tell a friend in my situation?

Am I holding myself to an unrealistic standard? If so, why?

What evidence do I have that this thought is untrue or exaggerated?

What would happen if I gave myself permission to move forward anyway?

How can I reframe this thought into something supportive and constructive?

What do I need right now—validation, rest, or a new perspective?

Affirmations to Stay Grounded When Invalidated by Others

“Their words reflect their perspective, not my reality.”

“I do not need everyone’s agreement to trust my own experience.”

“I am allowed to set boundaries when someone dismisses my feelings.”

“Their invalidation does not define my worth.”

“I am strong enough to advocate for myself calmly and clearly.”

“I can choose how much power I give to someone else’s opinion.”

“Disagreement doesn’t mean I am wrong—it means we see things differently.”

“It’s okay to step away from conversations that diminish me.”

Questions to Investigate the Source of External Invalidation

What might be driving this person’s invalidation? Is it fear, insecurity, or misunderstanding?

How much of their perspective is about me, and how much is about them?

Am I seeking validation from someone who cannot provide it? Why?

What would happen if I released the need for their approval?

Is there a constructive way to express how their invalidation affects me?

Have I communicated my feelings clearly, or am I expecting them to "just get it"?

What boundary can I set to protect my emotional well-being?

If I step back from this interaction, what perspective might I gain?

Ready Responses to Invalidation: Thoughtful Comebacks for Different Scenarios

When facing invalidation, it can help to have prepared responses that are calm, assertive, and respectful. These comebacks are designed to address different situations, from dismissive comments to outright attacks, while maintaining your composure.

1. When Your Ideas Are Dismissed

“I understand you see it differently, but I believe this idea has value.”

“Could you explain why you feel that way? I’d like to understand your perspective.”

“It’s okay if you don’t agree, but I’d appreciate you hearing me out.”

“I’m open to feedback, but dismissing the idea without a discussion doesn’t feel fair.”

“What would it take for you to consider this idea more seriously?”

2. When Your Feelings Are Invalidated

“You may not understand my feelings, but they’re real and important to me.”

“I’m not asking you to fix this—just to hear me and acknowledge how I feel.”

“I don’t need you to agree with my feelings, just respect that they exist.”

“It hurts when my emotions are dismissed. Can we approach this differently?”

“I need space to process my feelings without being judged or minimized.”

3. When Someone Uses Comparisons to Invalidate You

“I understand others may have it worse, but this is hard for me right now.”

“Everyone’s experience is different. This is what I’m going through.”

“I appreciate your perspective, but it doesn’t change how I’m feeling.”

“This isn’t about comparing struggles—it’s about what I’m dealing with.”

4. When Someone Invalidates You by Dismissing Your Efforts

“I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished, even if it doesn’t seem like much to you.”

“This might not seem important to you, but it matters to me.”

“I’m working hard on this, and I’d appreciate your support rather than criticism.”

“You’re entitled to your opinion, but I’m choosing to focus on my progress.”

5. When Someone Questions Your Choices

“I’ve made this decision thoughtfully, and I feel it’s the right one for me.”

“I respect your perspective, but I need you to respect my choice as well.”

“This might not align with your values, but it aligns with mine.”

“I’m open to discussing it, but not in a way that dismisses my reasoning.”

6. When You’re Invalidated in a Group Setting

“I’d like a chance to finish sharing my thoughts before we move on.”

“I think this is an important point, and I’d appreciate your input once I’m done.”

“It’s okay if you disagree, but I’d prefer not to be interrupted while explaining.”

“Let’s keep the discussion constructive—how can we build on this idea instead of dismissing it?”

7. When the Invalidation Comes From a Close Relationship

“I value your opinion, but I need you to hear where I’m coming from.”

“It’s hard to share with you when my feelings are dismissed—can we talk about this?”

“I know you’re trying to help, but it feels like my feelings aren’t being acknowledged.”

“I want us to work through this together, but I need to feel heard and respected first.”

8. When You Catch Yourself Being Invalidated, but the Situation Feels Hard to Confront

“Can we take a moment? I need to process how I’m feeling about this conversation.”

“I’m feeling dismissed right now, and I’d like to revisit this when we can talk more openly.”

“I think this is important, but I’d rather talk about it when we’re both ready to listen.”

originally posted on 1/4/25 via ghost platform

[volchek-blog]

January 3rd: A Day in the Life of a Photopreneur

What do car repairs, giant houses, and Olive Garden have in common? My January 3rd. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to juggle the life of a real estate photographer, flat-fee listing agent, and human being trying to keep it all together, buckle up. Today was a wild ride. It started at 7:00 AM at the mechanic. My car, a Mazda CX-5 with over 185,000 miles, had been slipping during acceleration. The culprit? Spark plugs. The fix? $500. Crazy, right? But I can’t complain too much—it solved the problem, and when your livelihood depends on being on the road, a reliable car is non-negotiable. While waiting at the mechanic’s, I started editing photos from a New Year’s party I shot a few days ago. It wasn’t an easy decision to prioritize those edits over other work, but they were overdue, and I just had to get them done. With the car fixed and the party photos finally edited, I headed out to shoot my first house of the day. I didn’t quite finish, though. I only had time to capture the photos, leaving the video and drone work for tomorrow. It wasn’t ideal, but hunger was winning the battle, and I knew I had a long day ahead. After a quick meal, I made my way to the big house—a sprawling property that was as beautiful as it was challenging. Adjusting my usual workflow to handle its size left me scrambling to stay organized. Processing things out of order threw me off, and it felt like a delicate balancing act to make sure I didn’t miss anything. Three hours later, I wrapped up the shoot, but I wasn’t quite done with my day. Next, I met with a homeowner who had previously hired me as a photographer. This time, though, she’s working with me on my flat-fee listing service. It’s exciting to see this idea gain traction and help homeowners take control of their sales. Then it was back to the big house for twilight photos at 5:30. There’s something magical about twilight photography, but it’s also unforgiving—you get one chance to nail the shot. After that, I headed to Olive Garden at 6:30 to meet up with my family. Between breadsticks and laughter, it was a much-needed pause in an otherwise nonstop day. Now, it’s 10:42 PM, and I’m back at my parents’ house, where I’m staying for a few days while my sister visits. But the day isn’t over yet. I still have to list that flat-fee property on the MLS, prep the contract for e-signatures, and pull together a packet of paperwork for the homeowner. Some days feel like a sprint, others like a marathon. Today was both. But amidst the chaos, there’s progress. And maybe that’s what it’s all about—embracing the hustle, finding the joy in small wins, and learning to keep moving forward. Tomorrow’s a new day, and who knows what it’ll bring? For now, I’ll take a deep breath, wrap up these last tasks, and call it a night.

ORIGINALLY POSTED ON 1/3/25 via GHOST platform.

[volchek-blog]

What if Palm Coast's Public Transit Could Be a Fleet of Driverless Cars?

What if public transit in Palm Coast could be something entirely new—a fleet of driverless cars? This bold question isn’t just about imagining the future; it’s about exploring whether such an idea could work for a town like Palm Coast.

Although I now live in Orlando, Palm Coast holds a special place in my heart. It’s where I went to high school and built my real estate media services business. It’s also a quintessential example of small-town America—a place with both the charm and challenges that make it the perfect setting for a forward-thinking pilot program.

I’m not declaring this as a definitive vision I’m pursuing at full speed—rather, I’m approaching it with curiosity and openness. My aim is to challenge myself to gather insights through conversations with community leaders, residents, and tech professionals to understand the feasibility of such a program.

The Vision: Could Driverless Cars Work for Small-Town USA?

Driverless cars are often seen as the technology of tomorrow. But what if that tomorrow could start today in small-town USA? This initiative could redefine how we think about getting around town:

Safety: Driverless cars are programmed to follow traffic rules meticulously, reducing accidents caused by human error.

Accessibility: For seniors, individuals with disabilities, and others who struggle with transportation, this fleet could be a game-changer.

Community Impact: By connecting neighborhoods, local businesses, and gathering spots like the European Village, this program could foster a more interconnected and vibrant community.

Imagine this: a resident schedules a ride to a doctor’s appointment, a local market, or a friend’s house using a simple app. The car arrives, transports them safely, and heads off to its next rider. This system could make life easier for countless residents while reducing the environmental footprint of traditional car use.

Starting at the Heart of Palm Coast

Could the European Village serve as the perfect testbed for a bold new approach to public transit? This hub of shops and restaurants, with its central parking lot, could store a pilot fleet of say 5 cars and provide convenient service to surrounding areas within a few miles. Focusing on a compact radius would allow the program to address initial challenges in a controlled environment and demonstrate its econimic benefits for the European Village businesses and citizen's quality of life.

However, this remains an idea for now, grounded in imagination and open for discussion. My goal is to see if this concept resonates with others and sparks meaningful conversations.

Research and Collaboration: Answering the Question

Answering the question posed in the title starts here: What legal, financial, and logistical challenges must be addressed to make driverless cars a reality for public transit in Palm Coast? I’m dedicating this phase of the journey to research and collaboration. Through blog posts, podcast discussions, and conversations with experts, I aim to uncover:

Regulatory Requirements: What laws and guidelines govern the operation of autonomous vehicles in small towns like Palm Coast?

Financial Models: How can a program like this be funded sustainably? Are there grants or public-private partnership opportunities?

Community Concerns: How can we ensure residents feel safe and confident using driverless cars?

These questions will guide my research, and I intend to document each step here on my blog. By sharing my findings, I hope to engage others and foster a collaborative approach to this exploration.

How You Can Help

I believe that great ideas grow through collaboration. If you’re a resident, business owner, or industry professional interested in this vision, I invite you to join the conversation. Share your thoughts, offer insights, or help connect me with experts who can guide this journey.

If this idea resonates with you or sparks your curiosity, let’s take the next step together. Schedule a conversation with me to explore this project further. Whether you’re a community leader, a tech professional, or simply someone with a unique perspective, your input is invaluable. Click here to schedule a discussion and join me in shaping this exploration.

This initiative is about imagining a better future for small towns and taking the first steps to explore its potential. You can follow my progress right here on my blog or tune into my podcast for interviews with local leaders and innovators. If, through this research and discussion, the idea gains traction, I’ll gladly take on a more active role in bringing it to life.

A Journey of Exploration

The question remains: What if Palm Coast’s public transit could truly become a fleet of driverless cars? The idea is still in its infancy, but the potential rewards are too great to ignore. Safer streets, greater accessibility, and a stronger sense of community are goals worth discussing.

For now, I’m limiting this idea to my blog and inviting others to join me in exploring its possibilities. If this journey leads to actionable steps and tangible outcomes, I’ll be ready to embrace the opportunity. Until then, let’s imagine, question, and collaborate to see where this path might lead.

ORIGINALLY POSTED 1/2/25 via GHOST platform

[volchek-blog]

Welcome to the inaugural post of volchek.blog, where I begin a bold new chapter of storytelling, exploration, and self-expression. After years of trial, error, and rediscovery, I’ve decided to challenge myself to write one post every single day this year. It’s an ambitious goal, but one I’m excited to tackle head-on. This space is my canvas to document life, share my insights, and create a platform for connection through authentic narratives.

Why This Blog Exists

volchek.blog is, first and foremost, a personal endeavor. It’s a place where I can explore the themes that matter most to me: personal growth, creative expression, and the pursuit of knowledge. Having spent significant portions of my life navigating different cultures, industries, and experiences—from acting in Los Angeles to building a real estate media company in Florida—I’ve developed a hunger for understanding perspectives that shape the world around us. This blog is my attempt to channel that curiosity into stories that resonate with others.

Over the years, I’ve faced setbacks that have taught me the importance of owning and protecting my creative work. Hacking incidents and platform losses have erased entire chapters of my journey. This blog is my way of taking back control, ensuring that my stories, insights, and projects have a secure home.

The Daily Blog Challenge

So, why commit to a daily blogging challenge? For me, it’s about more than just consistency; it’s about growth. Writing every day pushes me to reflect deeply on my experiences and articulate my thoughts clearly. It’s a discipline that fosters creativity and sharpens my voice, allowing me to document this journey in real-time. It’s also a promise to myself to stay engaged with my passions and build a lasting archive of ideas and stories.

Each post will vary in focus. Some days, I’ll share professional insights from my work in real estate marketing and photography. Other days, I’ll dive into deeply personal reflections, exploring topics like the immigrant experience, societal norms, and the pursuit of dreams. It’s a mix of the professional and the personal, the practical and the philosophical, all woven together by my unique perspective.

What to Expect

Here’s a sneak peek at some of the themes and stories you can expect to find on volchek.blog:

Creative Ventures: Documenting my ongoing projects, from the development of my photo booth bike project to the evolution of my real estate media business. I’ll share behind-the-scenes insights, lessons learned, and the creative process.

Personal Narratives: As someone who came to the U.S. at twelve, my immigrant journey has shaped how I see the world. Expect reflections on cultural transitions, identity, and the hunger for knowledge that has driven me forward.

Professional Insights: Real estate photography is a niche that I’ve carved out for myself, blending technical skill with artistic vision. I’ll share tips, strategies, and stories from the field that might inspire others in creative industries.

Exploring Controversy: I don’t shy away from difficult conversations. This blog will also tackle topics that challenge societal norms and expectations, with the possibility of placing some of the more sensitive posts behind a paywall or age verification system.

Community and Connection: I’ll shine a spotlight on local culture, art, and music, celebrating the people and stories that make our communities vibrant and unique.

Join the Journey

volchek.blog is not just a platform for me to express myself; it’s an invitation for you to join the conversation. My hope is that these stories inspire you, challenge you, or simply make you think. This space is as much about documenting my journey as it is about connecting with others who share a curiosity for life and the world around us.

As this blog evolves, I’ll also experiment with new formats and ideas, treating it as a testing ground for projects that could grow into something larger. From vlogging to offering exclusive content, there’s no limit to what this space can become. The only constant will be my commitment to authenticity and creativity.

So, here we go. Day one of 365. Thank you for being here, for reading, and for joining me on this journey. Let’s make this year one to remember.

ORIGINALLY POSTED 1/1/25 via GHOST platform.