I am (almost) always connected to OFTC and Freenode as ianweller. I prefer to talk about things in the open, so I prefer being invited to a channel to talk over just talking over PRIVMSG. Those who do not stick around and wait for a response for more than a few hours should email instead.
Aim your message to the general direction of Kansas. Adjust your TTL (volume) with respect to distance. If I am able to hear you, I will reply with instructions to improve the connection.