Just a question for you modders out there. What is a good starting level for a portal mod? I've been struggling with that first map. Should I go with the ol' "you wake up in a stasis pod?"

It's entirely up to you - but generally a mod comes from a sound concept or idea, and it doesn't necessarily have to anything with the original 'Portal' story.

Create a document, brainstorm ideas and perhaps collaborate with other eager modder(s).

Once you figure that out, starting the mod might not seem so difficult.