Jordan, I agree with you, I too have massive SSAD. Every time I tell myself that I'm not buying anymore, I read a thread about how nice another soap is and I end up buying it. My lastest acquisition is Tabac which is a nice soap.
As far as lathering goes, I soak my brush in hot water in a bowl that's slightly less full than where the the brush bristles meet the handle so as to not get the knot wet, then I get into the shower.
After the shower, I pour out the water and give the brush a slight shake. I by swirling the brush around the soap about 30 or 40 laps, then I get my face wet again with warm wather.
I start to lather on my face, but if I don't have enough, I will build up a nice lather in the bowl and go over my face with more lather.
If you're still having problems building a good lather, it could be because you have hard water. Also, IMHO, it seems that pure badger brushes work best, then super badger and lastly natural brustle (boar hair).
Good Luck and don't give up!
-Fred