Meshtastic Mastery: Getting more from Meshtastic, how do we progress?

So you have a basic Meshtastic node, how can you get more contacts, more reliable communications, work further afield stations and increase the number of nides available to you both locally and outside the immediate area.
My groups -
FaceBook East Midlands UK Meshtastic / eastmidsukmeshtastic
Reddit East Midnlands Meshtastic / ukeastmidsmeshtastic
Discord Meshtastic UK / discord
Other great resources
FB Meshtastic UK / 625434626178266
Reddit Meshtastic / meshtastic

[@teaker1s]

That Yagi is cheaper from Farnell and needs power turning down with coax losses to keep to EIRP

[@tekmakerUK]

It was just to show the types not recommend the supplier

[@banksarenotyourfriends]

Great video!
I bought 3 T-beams over a year ago, and never got around to setting them up properly. One of them had a faulty GPS module that I was hoping could be fixed with a firmware update, but I just never got around to it and other interests ended up taking over.
I should probably have another look at it now its gaining in popularity a bit more.
Is there a particular network name etc to use so that I can find other people in the UK? I'm in Northumberland.
Sorry, I know this information is probably available on the FB or Discord groups you mentioned but I don't use either app.

[@tekmakerUK]

Look for regional groups on FaceBook and Discord like the ones in my description

[@banksarenotyourfriends]

​@@tekmakerUK I don't use either of those platforms, but I'll have a look at the Reddit link you've shared. Cheers.

[@fotografm]

I post as much as possible on the Longfast channel on the air since that is the one which everyone has and it is included in the firmware by default.

[@CrashUK28]

Can post links the products. I got second Heltec V3. Going try it in the loft.