So if I change my cell phone number, how much of a hassle is that going to be?

When I started out with this wonderful hobby about a year ago, I didn't bother to get a hobby phone. I use my real cell phone number. I'd like to correct that mistake, but I'm concerned it will throw a wrench into my network of provider references. They all know me by that cell number and I have no problem seeing anyone I want now because of it. (I am NOT married, by the way, so using my real number isn't a problem from that perspective.) As you veterans know, it takes a lot of time and money to build up that provider reference network. Is changing my number worth the added privacy? Can I switch to a Trac phone without too much trouble? Or will the resulting headaches trying to update all my references make it too much of a hassle?

Some of my references know me by email, too - a dedicated hobby email. But many of them only know me by that cell number. Especially the Korean bookers in LA. Most of them don't use email at all. In fact, they often refuse to even consider references via email. They are all about texting.

Just looking for some opinions before I make a move on this.

you don't have to go through the hassle of chaning your cell number if you have either an iphone or htc (sprint). just download the free "call blocker" app from monster. it's a password protected app that allows you to assign specific numbers and block unwanted calls. so let's say you have several providers you want to call. there numbers won't appear in your "regular" cell phone book. all of those numbers only appear in your "call blocker" app. and when the providers call you, you can set the app to either pick up, or not answer the call. the cool aspect is that when you auto-deny the call, the app will send a text behind the call like 'i can't pick up right now. call you later'.

has other really cool features. even if someone picks up your phone, they won't even know what they app is anyway. a nice feature is that it sets up a "misdirect" so if you say 'the passcode is 1234' when it's really 7890 then it goes to another function but only you'll know it. it actually lets you input a fake access code that points to a fake app for anyone that says 'what's this app? why do you have a call manager? what's the passcode?' it's really easy to use and a lot better than getting a new hobby number.

I presume you are keeping your "real" number for real life, and want to get a second "hobby" number. If so, just let people know your new number as you see them. If someone has a problem, like the Korean Bookers, then call them from your Real Number, and ask them to change you to your hobby number. After a while, you should be all switched over.

I hated to... but was necessary.   I have emailed my Favs. (blind CC)   I'll probably have to remind them the next time I call them.   What ever system you put in place, good to do & better to do it sooner rather than later.
BTW, tracfones can be activated entirely from the handset.
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Guys change numbers all the time as well as ladies. Just give your new number to the indys, as to the K girls that may take time to change over but, slowly and surely they will use the new number.

to all of you for the advice. I think I will pick up a Trac phone and start the process of updating my contact info with my references. Seems like the right move, especially since I don't plan on giving up this hobby any time soon. It's way too much fun!  

I may want to check it out for other reasons. But how exactly does it solve my problem of needing an anonymous / untraceable phone number? I can't block calls/texts from the providers that I want to see.