Walt used to be a forum member here years ago. He knows that this forum can hurt of help a pipemaker to some extent. I really do hate to hear that his CS is lacking. I had high hopes for him, as he does beautiful work.
But, as an artist, I can understand that having to split yourself between the making side and the business side sucks. I hate having to deal with the money and CS stuff also. I have considered taking on a manager, so that I can just stay in the realm of making and never have to deal with negotiating prices, asking for money, and stuff. I don't mind the collaborating with the customer part. Just the money aspect.
Having been down for a couple of months with three herniated disks, and not able to lift a hammer, I myself have lost track of requests and potential orders. Now that I can work at the bench, I am left trying to figure out who I was talking to. I am glad that I didn't take any money from them. I would be in Walt's position if I had.
BTW... if anyone was wanting something, I can walk now, and lift a hammer.