if anyone out there has had a bad experience with an agent or publisher, we`d like it if you let us know, and maybe we can help identify why- and what we can all learn from our mistakes

I annoyed an Agent I once had by doing a deal over my kitchen table with the MD of a well known company. My agent was well angry and sent me a very strong letter, explaining to me in no uncertain terms that I should have payed them their cut. As it wasn't very much money I poo-pooed the idea...and then I read my contract.
Lesson learnt...respect your Agent. (And read your contract).

Thanks for that- good point. Shafting your agent not a good idea. But sometimes, you can have an agreement with an agent where they won't take a percentage on say, residencies, or particular deals that you've done yourself- but you do have to check first or risk really alienating them.