I'm new to podcasting and need:

1) someone who has the know-how to take a look at my xml feed and
confirm it's valid--FROM FIRST HAND CODING experience, not from an
online validating site (they're wishy-washy)

2) answers to  couple of minor questions on adding items to the feed

3) to know why the manual pinging URL is not being recognized by itunes

4) answers to some related but all fairly minor questions. 

I've done my homework on line and with several books, but none do a
really good job of saying as simply as possible 'this is how this is
done' when it comes to a couple of what I perceieve as basic nuts and
bolts. I'm an intermediate user and web builder so I'm not a total
newbie.

We're probably talking about an exchange of 4 or 5 emails back and
forth, tops, to help me get everything set up. I already have had ne
successful attempt to get my feed up and it's  been approved by
iTunes. I didn't think I've have any stumbling blocks at this point,
but here they are!

Would it be possible for you to...

1. Either post the URL for your podcast feed (the XML file) or the XML code.
2. Post the questions you have regarding adding items to your feed
3. Post the other (minor) questions you have

I have no doubt I can help you, as I have a lot of experience with this!

Many thanks