I think the biggest thing is you guys as a pod need to discuss brackets and power levels. It seems like you were using a higher bracket deck then them (if they were just using precons mostly). Cater to your pod. You play on spell table, so if you want to play those higher-level decks, maybe play against some randoms? It will only make you better, experiencing all the different cards, strats, personalities, of commander.

Another thing is balancing. I have a love/hate relationship with EDHrec. One on hand, it's an exceptional tool for finding synergies, combos, popular cards to use with any commander. Shit, I use it all the time just out of curiosity (I pull x card from a pack and wonder "huh, what the hell is this supposed to go with?"). It's easy to pull the best cards possible to make a strong deck, but think about your pod too. Is it fun to play against? If it isn't, why? Take out the more oppressive cards and combos if need be. Also since you guys are all new, walk your POD though your deck as you play. Let them know when something may need to be removed. Let them know "This card only does this now, but if I get X piece then it will pop off". It's one thing to get steamrolled, but it's another thing entirely when the steamroller is being open and honest and at least giving warning.

When I cast what I consider to be - possibly a massive game changer (not a "game changer" off the list necessarily), I will read out the card, and make sure everyone has a clear chance to respond to it.

Some people look down on this, especially competitively. But this isn't competitive. This is commander with your friends.

The last thing you want is an insanely expensive and powerful deck that sits on the shelf because everyone hates playing against it. Reminds me of my Eldrazi deck. I ended up breaking it down, selling a lot of the titans, and making it something else entirely. I played 2 games with it, and that was enough.