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Hi!

Yes I know we’re not due another newsletter until next week, but I have a long blog post for you, a new podcast episode, and a question, so why wait? Let’s start with the question… (with apologies to the Spice Girls for the terrible subject line)

What do you want?

I’m thinking about what I produced over the last year. It wasn’t the publishing explosion of 2024, but I did produce two full length courses (Vadi Longsword and Vadi Dagger), created the Introduction to Historical Martial Arts course, and published one book (From Medieval Manuscript to Modern Practice: the dagger techniques of Fiore dei Liberi). I’ve also posted 17 blog posts- about double what I thought I’d done, but I just counted them so I’m sure.

That’s a pretty good year, to be honest. And sales haven’t been too bad. But it must be said that my overall sales are down relative to 2024. Some of that is no doubt due to the prevailing economic conditions (so much winningness, really). But looking around I see other authors having 6-figure crowdfunding campaigns, or shifting a million books (literally). People are dropping significant cash on their interests.

So, imagine you had pots of money (a stretch, I know), and you could commission me to produce any book or online course, just for you. What would that be? Reply to this email to let me know.

I’m not promising I’ll produce it (unless you really do have all the cash, and it’s within my area of expertise, and it’s in line with my values). But I would be really interested to know what would be a slam-dunk obvious purchase for you. Be as detailed, and whimsical, as you like.

Birthday sale reminder

You can get 10% off all print products (in the Swordschool bookshop) and 25% off all digital products (in the bookshop and on Teachable), with the pretty self-explanatory codes:

BIRTHDAYPRINT10

and

GUYSBIRTHDAY25

The codes are valid until January 2nd, so there’s no rush. What am I saying? ACT NOW or all the puppies will DIE!!

(Got to work on that marketing).

100 days no booze results

Last week I shared a DEXA mystery, and some of my 100 days no booze results. I’ve now written the whole thing up, including ALL the data, and the resolution of the missing 1.616kg. After a long chat with one of the company’s DEXA technicians, it seems there’s a simple explanation. You can read the whole thing here.

On the Podcast: Swords are where I can be me, with Vera Martocchia

Vera Martocchia is a professional sword-fighting instructor with nearly a decade of experience in HMA. She co-founded the HMA club SwordPunch, in London, and teaches a wide range of weapons, including Sidesword, Longsword, Dagger, Sickle, and more drawing on historical sources such as the Anonimo, Marozzo, Meyer, and Huntfeld. Her approach combines historical depth with practical application, emphasising both precision and flow. Known for her dynamic teaching style and thoughtful instruction, Vera makes HEMA concepts accessible to students of all levels. She regularly teaches classes and seminars across London and beyond.

In addition to her historical martial art practice, Vera holds a Master's Degree in International Business, works as a Marketing professional in tech, and is a certified fitness professional with over 16 years of experience. She holds advanced certifications in Les Mills BodyCombat™️, BodyBalance™️, Pilates, and children’s fitness, integrating strength, balance, and body awareness into her sword instruction.

Fluent in several European languages, Vera brings a diverse and international perspective to her work. She now lives in London with her family, and her swordsmanship reflects a lifelong passion for movement, teaching, and people.

cheers,

Guy

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