Carrying the discussion from comments over at priority one, since these forums work a little better for that sort of thing.
http://priorityonepodcast.com/po226/
You'd mentioned wanting some current advice for a fresh 50:
Updated with iconian rep items:
http://perfectworld.vanillaforums.com/discussion/1175643/early-decisions-ultimate-newbies-guide-for-new-players#latest
Discussion of current end game ships for free players:
http://perfectworld.vanillaforums.com/discussion/1189030/how-does-progression-looks-like-now-for-fresh-players#latest
Current options for getting and equipping an end game ship for less than 15 million ec:
http://perfectworld.vanillaforums.com/discussion/1189066/a-ship-for-10-15-mil#latest
What to play at vice admiral and what to pick up from missions:
http://perfectworld.vanillaforums.com/discussion/1189109/just-reached-va-50-where-to-now#latest
Hope you see this and hope it helps.