Blogworld And New Media Expo Report

Paul, I really enjoyed your session at Blog World...it was one of the best ones I attended at the show. And thank you for taking time on a break to answer a few of my questions about video software...I really appreciate it.

As for vendors, I noticed that the expo was much smaller this year than last year. And, some the of the vendors who appeared as sponsors on the signage were not even present in the exhbit hall. I'm sure eBay and paypal can afford to show up...

I am so bummed I missed this (I had NUMEROUS emergencies pop up). Thanks to Tim for filling my spot. For me I attend the expos (I made the first two) to learn and network. If these parties were as loud as it sounds (this blog post is all I have in terms of "facts") then that would've been a pain. Not surprised that Todd through the best party. As for the Howard Stern remark. You pay for Howard, and know what you're getting when you sign up. Thumbs up to Paul for asking for a higher standard. If it were me I would appreciate a "Go out and get em" kind of wrap up with attendance numbers, possibly a "best in show" award(s) etc to wrap the whole thing up in a pretty bow, and announce when next years Expo will be.

Thanks for the comment Dave. I was at Todd's party, and it was very nice. It was just a different kind of party, in a much smaller venue than the other "big time" sponsored parties were. Nothing wrong with a more intimate party, to be sure.

BTW, I have attended nearly all of Todd's parties over the last few years and a few of them have been VERY WILD indeed, and even featured their fair share of "adult activities" going on!

I think that all of the parties that I attended at Blogworld this year were quite appropriate, and as expected, not unlike any other trade shows or conferences I've attended in Vegas over the last couple of decades.

That being said, I do find the comments about the parties being too loud and not business-like enough to be a bit bewildering. There was a smattering of smaller, more intimate, events (I attended one with Paul himself) and, even at these, those attending were happy to "cut loose" and enjoy themselves!

If there are those out there that feel the parties were too loud, or inappropriate, then I think the beefs should be directed at the companies that went to a great deal of expense to sponsor them. Let them know to tone their parties down. But, as I commented before, from what I saw, everyone was having a great time at ALL the parties.

People attending Blogworld had all day each day to learn, earn and network and I stick to my opinion that there is absolutely nothing wrong with "cutting the rug" after a long day of serious business to just unwind, particularly in Las Vegas!

Finally, (and hopefully this will be the last comment I post on the Closing Keynote Show), I raised the Howard Stern analogy just to make the point that there is, and has been for so many years, an ever-growing plethora of "adult" material out there. Personally, I am not all that enamored myself with X-rated material, but I must admit that I find it quite entertaining at times.

It's hard for me to fathom that the bulk of those involved in new media, blogging, podcasting, viral and renegade video production (all of which champion free and uncensored content) would be so prudish as to be so offended by the "adult content" in the show. Again, love her or hate her, Jenny The Bloggess is a very quick-witted woman, to be sure. That being said, I do agree, in hindsight, that a warning about explicit material would have been very appropriate here. (Although, in all fairness, I did tease Jenny's appearance using the adjective "provocative" in front of her moniker!)

I still feel that the whole concept for the Closing Keynote Show was a valid one. As far as announcing when and where next year's Expo will be (something that I asked about just to make some sort of announcement at the end of the show during the closing credits), there was a valid reason for omitting that information.....the date and venue for next year's Blogworld is yet to be decided!

Until next year, BLOG ON, you all!

**Copied over from an email exchange between me and Paul today; he invited me to share this online to add to the discussion.**

Very thoughtful post, Paul, thank you for your great efforts this year and looking forward to the next.

Quick aside, Wizzard may not've had a physical presence, which I hope they do next year, but Rob Walch was instrumental in the planning of the audio/video/podcasting tracks this year.

The idea behind the closing keynote talk show was definitely to present a more entertainment-oriented format. A departure from the educational sessions, more creative, and giving online content creators (who aren’t first-to-mind in the inner circle of the new media regulars) an opportunity to share their experiences and expression. All types of online content are welcome at this event, and entertainment media individuals are very important to welcome to the table.

(Dirty language aside, but this was an extreme case. there isn’t another Jenny just as there wasn’t another Richard Pryor—brilliant, biting, definitely pushing the edge but funny beyond compare if you can look through syntax and see the actual innovative storytelling.)

I think sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in the process of creating, distributing and monetizing content—and possibly lose touch with the uniquely creative, entertaining and colorful aspects of the content itself. The talk show was our experiment in such a creative, entertaining approach; it didn’t necessarily go exactly as we’d planned BUT it did open the door to a creative format, which we plan to perpetuate. It was a risk, and we take a lot of them. We have to experiment every year.

I have no doubt that some people who had no previous exposure to Jenny were taken aback. We assumed that those who heard she’d be appearing knew what to expect (we even had video clips of her on our video widget on the home page)—but we weren’t anticipating that we’d need to forewarn attendees of her comedic style. In retrospect, it would’ve been a good idea. Nonetheless, I’d stand behind anyone who is creative, successful, brave and willing to share with others at this event. Next time we feature someone who has a tendency toward adult content, we’ll definitely post a message sharing that so there are less surprises.

Some people may’ve walked away from that show thinking “wow, that wasn’t what I was expecting”, and to a certain extent, that’s a great thing too. We don’t want to emulate other events. It’s not shocking content for the sake of it at all, more that we’d like to give exposure between personalities and the event attendees which is uncommon and breaks new ground---that’s how different microcosms come together and help the industry grow together after all...and that’s what we all need to facilitate.

It was very interesting to see, for example, Guy and the Chad Vader guys meet each other. Both were completely unfamiliar with each other, and their audiences in large part had no previous exposure to the other. Now a bridge has been provided to a new audience for both, and additional knowledge exchange about how the different approaches to content creation, monetization, new media business is addressed. This is also a great thing.

Anyhow, I hadn’t been in contact with you since our phonecall months ago, and wanted to reach out personally to share thoughts.

Thank you again, and best to you and yours for a nice holiday season. :)

Dave

_______

Paul replied:

"Like I said on my Blog, I have no problem with "dirty words" and have a big problem with censorship. It wasn't the the Bloggess (and she is hillarious) was blue, it was that the general public walking in off the street to the closing event at an important expo might think four letter words was the norm and the best we have to offer.

I believe neither is true. I believe we have a lot more to offer than that. Your show proved that.

Had the event been labeled as "R-Rated" (actually, I think this would have been NC-17 had it been a concert film but I digress) or "Vegas Style" or anything like that, I'd been thrilled. But when you subject Mommybloggers to fisting jokes without a warning, I have to question the market to message match. Without you putting a wrapper around it, it looks like a bunch of middle schoolers who just discovered George Carlin and think the swearwords are what make him great. Put a wrapper around it and it begins to make a little sense.

And market to message mismatches are as dangerous to the "creatives" as they are to the evil "monetizers."

The simply statement of the 'we meant to do this' doesn't change the impact - it just changes the source of the problem. It still came off as bad match. Fix the wrapper and we're all better for it."

_______

Paul, that's a fair position to take. This was a new approach to a keynote, and if there is any expectation for adult content in the future, we'll label the session accordingly to avoid mismatch of expectations.

This is what happens when one breaks new ground, watches, listens and measures...you carry forward some important items learned to the next instance, with the objective of growth and improvement a constant. I think we're all on the same paragraph of the same page.

Best,
D

Awesome. Thanks for posting this Dave.

And again, this Blog post and responses come from the simple fact that I loved the event and want to play a part in making it even better next year. Nothing but hats off to you and the team for making this happen.

Paul

Thank you Paul and everyone sharing your thoughts.

All this input is great brain candy, and we're already thinking about next year. :)

Bravo Dave. Brain candy it is!

Let's just all keep an open mind about the Closing Keynote Show and use the experience of this year to make next year's event bigger and better! I think the concept was great and bears repeating!

I agree with Paul about the packaging or "wrapping" of the event. Actually, as early as Chris Brogan's keynote (where I was the "announcer" introducing Chris) I mentioned to those attending that we are planning something very special and unique for the closing keynote. I also tweeted about it in advance as well.

We discussed the topic of how to "promote" the Closing Keynote Show in the days leading up to it, but, because we were breaking ground here and really even weren't sure ourselves about the show would play out, we thought it best to not do a big hype. In hindsight, maybe we should have, so that people attending had a better idea of what to expect.

I also agree that some sort of warning about "adult" or "explicit" content would have been appropriate. But, once again here, we really didn't have a firm idea of what kind of "content: the guests would be offering up. As written in a prior comment, a bit more preparation and "pre-interviews" with the guests could have helped in this regard. The decision to turn the closing keynote into The Closing Keynote Show was made just a couple weeks before Blogworld and I think that the show really turned out to be something unexpected and refreshing.

The best thing is that the Closing Keynote Show DID have an impact and DID precipitate interest and productive dialogue. Yes, maybe some walked out "scratching their heads" but, from what I saw, few, if any, walked out until the show was over!

I hope Rick and Dave decide to stick with this format the finale of next year's event, as we can take the lessons learned from this year and use what we learned to put together a totally kick-ass finale for the 2010 BWE! Until then, BLOG ON!

Hi Paul,

I have attended BlogWorld Expo for the very first time this year and I am absolutely thrilled. I've attended your workshop as well and have enjoyed it tremendously - a lot of fun and so much really useful information all in one hour - awesome. Thanks a lot.
I agree to most of your points whereas as a European (from Germany) I wasn't that offended by the closing keynote. I found it amusing and even if it wasn't that informative it was a fun way to end a great convention. A little fun doesn't do any harm in my eyes and does not make the whole event unprofessional.
I have seen workshops though of which I had expected more (information and professionality). Anyhow, if I can make it I will be there again.
Cheers
Kirsten

P.S. Just started reading you Podcasting book - very interesting and a good read.

Kirsten,

Thanks for the kind words on my session. Had a great time doing it.

Again, I wasn't offended by the closing. I simply didn't think it made anyone "look good" in the end. I want this show at 10x the size in the next couple of years and think a little more thought and labeling in how we send everyone home would be a really good idea.

Paul

Paul, I agree with most of what you've written, save one thing:

"If we are going to become an “industry” we need to act like an “industry” – that means we show up to our events, buy booths, court new customers, appreciate the old ones, raise expectations and standards, etc"

This sounds an awful lot like "click on my banner ads a few times, even if you aren't interested in the products". The real criticism shouldn't be laid on the companies who decided not to show up this year, because if they don't see the value in participating, then there might be something wrong with how the show presents itself. I spoke to many podcasters who will be in Vegas for next years show, but will not be attending any part of the show because they no longer see the need to go to panels or walk the show floor.

I think you're putting the blame on the wrong groups with that point. the rest I agree with.

Rob,

Good point. And I'll be pondering this for awhile but, what I was going for here was more of a "don't wait for someone else to make it perfect" kinda angle here.

I feel like the attitude of some of the industry types weren't participating because things weren't perfect, or had the chance of not being perfect. As we can see by Rick and his team, the industry needs to "step up" to make it perfect - and I'm hoping we do just that.

I'm sorry, but I don't understand your final comment in the 2nd paragraph. Are you saying some will be "telling their bosses" that their in Vegas for the event but will just be enjoying a Vegas vacation? Or something else.

This event will only get better if we as an industry make it better. Rick and the team are doing their part, we need to do our as well.

Paul

I'm talking about individuals and producers who felt that it wasn't necessary to attend the show but will still be coming to Vegas to do business. These were mostly independents, but I heard it from many people.

Gotcha, so we're talking the "they're gonna be there anyway, so I'll fly out" crowd? Makes sense. Bad strategic move I think, but it makes sense. Tell me (and Rick) this, what do you think it would take (change wise) in the event for them to buy a ticket and start attending again?

Paul

One other thing on that closing keynote: Guy Kawasaki lost MAJOR points with me on how he handled poor "new media Joe" when he botched the intro. Not very gracious, to say the least.

Tom thanks so much for that comment, but I wouldn't worry about "poor old New Media Joe." I am a professional and can handle it.

Actually, a confession here. From my end, the flub was planned, just to evoke a little more out of Guy! The bit was crafted to refer to the fact that Darth Vader's brother, Chad, was a guest on the show, and that I was told to make reference to Jackie Chan's brother, "Johnny."

Yeah, that part of the bit didn't go over all that well (and any performer can tell you that sometimes a planned routine will "lay an egg") but I felt it worked okay and then felt redeemed and that, in retrospect, that opening bit was validated when Guy, himself, accidentally referred to Chad Vader as Darth Vader, twice I believe!

Hey the breaks in between guests didn't quite go as planned either, but, what the heck, no? (Being careful here not to use any further profanity that will insult Paul and the others here.)

Yes, I hoped that Guy would have handled the "Johnny" Chan remark a little better, like with a question like, "Don't you mean Jackie Chan?" and then the "brothers night" reply would have worked better. But, in a live production like this, just as in stand-up, you roll with it and what happens happens.

I think that, all in all, Guy did a decent job in a venue that he is not accustomed to. With a bit more preparation and perhaps a full run-through dress rehearsal (something we had talked about doing but scheduling and other conflicts prevented it) it might have yielded a little bit better show, but I think it still worked out quite well. People are talking about it, and that, in itself is good!

All being said, I think the concept was great, the packed-house seemed to enjoy it and a whole bunch of people commented to me personally after the show that they really liked it and thought of it as a breath of fresh air! Kudos, again, to Rick Calvert and Dave Cynkin for wanting to try something different and making the decision to go with it!

But, then, what the hell do I know? I'm just poor old New Media Joe!

If it was intentional, you had me fooled! If not...well, chalk it up to the value of good professional prep work (which I know you are well acquainted with, Joe) and that, in itself, is a valuable lesson for new media producers.

Thank you for a fantastic post Paul. I will be sharing point #3 with all of our potential sponsors and exhibitors =p.

Thank you to Paul, Leo, John and everyone else for your offer of help. WE NEED IT! Let’s start with why we need it. Our concept for this event is to have 50,000 people there, not 500 or 5,000. I am 100% certain that the new media space is big enough to support an event of that size.

Our strength is also what causes one of our biggest challenges; our incredible diversity. Don mentioned that "The execution of the event was much better than I expected but really only seemed to kick into gear a month or two before the event."

But the truth is we were working our butts off building and promoting this event since the closing day of last year's show. The problem is we were not conveying this info to Don's community effectively. We were trying but just not breaking through the clutter. We need help, we need evangelists in every community you can think of helping us spread the word and getting people mobilized to help build this into the event everyone wants it to be.

Very few people come to BlogWorld & New Media Expo and walk away saying "it sucked". In fact year after year, more people come up to me and tell me "this is the best event I have ever attended" than any other event I have ever been involved with as an attendee, exhibitor, or organizer. I have been to literally thousands of events. That is not an attempt to pat myself or my staff on the back. Our event is a reflection of, and product of our industry, our attendees, our speakers and sponsors. They drive the focus of this event and make it what it is. This industry is thriving and exploding in size and influence while most other are struggling to survive in this economy.

Completely agree about monetization. This is by far our most popular track and could easily be three or even 5 times the size it is now.

The closing keynote show: I think your criticism is completely valid, but I am going to defend our decision and our guests 100% and at this moment am 100% committed to continuing this as a tradition for the closing keynote. This is why, we had over 120 educational sessions at this years show (not including WordCamp), and we had seven serious keynote talks. The closing keynote was meant to be a showcase for real talent and people who are real success stories in our industry, and end the show with "A Show". Now admittedly there were some rough spots in our production, but Kevin Pollak is a very successful actor and comedian who has now entered "our world" and embraced it. Having him as a guest was a major coup. Matt and Aaron are freaking rock stars and deserved the forum. Jenny The Bloggess is one of the funniest people on the internet. I am guessing most people who were offended are completely unfamiliar with her. Please go read her blog. www.thebloggess.com this is her shtick. She is a comedic genius and I would put her in the realm of a Joan Rivers or Chelsea Handler. She is also very successful.

Her humor is off color, and not for everyone and we should have done a much better job of warning people what they were in for with her.

I didn’t want to get too long winded in any of these replies so I kept them as short as possible. I would love to expand more on this with anyone who wants to email rick@blogworldexpo.com, DM @blogworld or call me 858.309.4747 ext. 102

Thank you again for a great post Paul and thank you everyone who cares enough to comment and help us make this event a showcase for our industry.

Rick.....Thanks for defending the decision to close The Blogworld and New Media Expo with "The Blogworld Closing Keynote Show." I think the decision to make the finale of the event more of an entertaining "happening" was a very valid one.

As you so aptly stated, the conference was FILLED with serious, educational and fact-filled sessions. Not all of them were that well-attended, and some were pretty uninteresting, IMHO. Even the other keynotes were "fact-filled," so to speak, and included their fair-shares of insights, inspirations, case-studies and visions.

By the time an event like Blogworld draws to a close, I, for one, think it is perfectly reasonable to "lighten it up," so as to leave the attendees with an "upbeat" attitude about the whole event, and the thought that it was educational, thought-provoking and, yes, FUN as well!

Should the parties at the clubs had music levels far lower so people could network more and do more business? Perhaps. But they were PARTIES, for god's sake, engineered for people who chose to attend them to have some good old FUN, Sin-City-style!

Parties and reveling are a time-tested tradition at Las Vegas conventions of all sizes and shapes. So, to imply that the Blogworld Expo should cast all this aside and not allow for any juvenile or fun-loving antics is simply absurd! Despite what Paul Colligan may profess, very few people attend conventions, particularly in Las Vegas, with the expectation that it's going to be "all business" and "no fun." Let's get real here, folks!

Should the "Blogworld Closing Keynote Show" have had more "serious" content, or content that, as Paul comments, paints us more as "grown-ups" (that need to "act like it," whatever that means)? Not at all! Personally, I don't get Paul's point about "acting like grown-ups" and, as one of the producers and the announcer of the show, take a personal afront to the comment.

Further, to brand the Closing Keynote Show as "insulting and damaging" is short-sighted, misses the point, and is, simply, unfair.

Paul should know that all the people involved with this keynote event are, in fact, adults themselves. Each and every one of us (myself included) has had a significant degree of success in new media, mainstream media, or both. We didn't achieve this success merely by acting like slackers or juvenile "potty mouths."

And, while we're on the subject, agree with it or not, there is now a totally valid and justified place for "adult" language and humor in ALL media. Just take a look or listen to Howard Stern on satellite radio, or just about ANY prime time drama or sitcom, or comedy special on HBO, Showtime, FX, AMC (and many other "mainstream" cable or satellite television networks) and you will find content just as raunchy, or more, than was presented in the Closing Keynote Show. Is it acceptable? Is it proper? Should it be broadcast? That's a value judgment to be made by each and every individual using their own standards of content. But, is is it valid? Absoulutely! Because countless MILLIONS of people are consuming this kind of content 24 hours of every day?

To take the position that "adult content" is inappropriate for a Blogging and New Media event that celebrates the freedom to create and monetize content of any and every kind, is, in a word, ludicrous.

As Rick states, we are aware that the Closing Keynote Show had its snafus and missteps. I'll be the first to state that the show could have been "better" and, as a decades-long seasoned pro, can state with confidence that it WOULD have been better had more time and money been spent on the production of the show. But, like Rick, I defend the bold decision to go with the concept 100%! I hope we do it again next year, but with more planning and preparation, a bigger budget and even MORE pizazz!

Let us not lose sight of the fact that blogging, podcasting and new media are not all about monetization and optimization. There is far more to discuss than all of the so-called "serious" aspects as presented by Paul in all of his meet-ups and podcasts. For one, how about the entertainment and production value of the content itself? How about raising the bar for the quality of production of podcasts, videos and blogs with some tried and true "professional" production values? How about striving to make podcasts, videocasts and blogs more interesting than a long-winded lecture from a boring college professor?

WIth all due respect and regard to Paul and what he is trying to do, I think the author of this blog post needs to "lighten it up" a bit himself, show a little more respect for the SUCCESFUL adults who work so hard to craft content that ENTERTAINS and ATTRACTS significant audiences, and acknowledge that there is a relevant place for content that is not just another tutorial about how to make money with blogging, podcasting or new media.

IMHO, it's the entertainment and production value of content that will be the the cream that rises to the top, as "new media" continues its metamorphosis into the new "mainstream" media and the plethora of content out there now which is focused on "how to" monetize, "how to" write or produce and "how to" attract an audience is, thankfully, replaced by truly interesting content that simply attracts large numbers on a regular and loyal basis.

Haven't there been enough podcasts on podcasting, blogs on blogging and videos about making videos? This writer thinks that there has.

The challenge we are presented with now is in innovating new ways to craft and produce content in such a manner as to attract audiences and effectively market products and services to the consumers "tuining in." Leo Laporte, for one, has already become a master at this, and it is this subject that should be demanding our attention! There has been more than enough presented on the mechanics. Now let's just start producing some kick-ass unique content, as Kevin Pollak, Matt Sloan, Aron Yonda and Jenny The Bloggess are trying to do!

In closing, I can say that, from my perspective up at the announcer's lectern, it seems that most of the people at the Blogworld Closing Keynote Show were enjoying it, perhaps just because it was different and not what they expected.

Isn't that what the brave new world of new media is REALLY all about?

You should know your audience better Joe. I thought your shtick was great, but I'm disappointed with your response here.

I don't know many people that didn't complain about the parties being held at clubs, which is why people stopped attending them and started doing dinners and private parties instead. Sure, partying is great, but I'm not sure that's the right venue for that.

Same goes for the keynote. All of the guests were great...Guy looked like...well...pick a 4 letter word and run with it. It was one of the best keynotes that I saw (the rest were just celebrities spouting their worthless opinions), but I'd rather have seen Brogan's speech at the end than this thing. Just didn't feel right...most of the audience walked out not knowing what they thought, and that "IMHO" isn't how it should be.

Nathan I hear what you are saying about the parties. Being a "Hollywood Producer" for decades I most definitely have attended more than my share of wild parties. Frankly, Nathan, I have never been a "party animal" myself and didn't enjoy all of the madness as much as many of my peers did back in "the day."

But, let's face it and be real here. As I commented before, parties are simply a staple for industries involved in media of all kinds, and an established tradition for trade shows, especially those staged in Sin City! Even the fairly "straight-laced" Todd Cochrane has become known for his parties, dating back to the very first Portable Media Expo in 2005!

BTW, I attended one of those "private dinners" you mentioned on Friday night and must admit I enjoyed it far more than the wild parties at the different hotel clubs, for what it's worth.

Still, the parties I did attend were jammed full of people that seemed to be having a great time (and, for that matter, a better time than I was having). In fact, one of the comments I overheard about the big bash at The Bank on Thursday night was that it was like "being at a hot Vegas club with everyone you like!"

I think we can all agree that it's all about balance. Too much partying....not such a good thing. Too much business and not enough fun.....not very cool either!

The simple truth is......If you have a trade show or conference in Las Vegas, there's gonna' be a whole lotta' partying going on! I can't remember a single industry event that I've attended in Vegas in the last 30 years that didn't include a serious amount of revelry!

Finally, about the Blogworld Closing Keynote Show, I stand by my earlier comments that the concept of staging a light-hearted and entertaining event to close the conference was right on the money! (The CES even had a "Jeopardy" show with Alex Trebeck!) Changing it up and adding variety is always a good thing.

I hope we do it again next year, and do it even better! And if there are less parties and more intimate soirees, that would suit me just fine also. But don't count on it!

I completely appreciate your opinion and value your feedback Nathan but saying "most of the audience walked out" simply is not accurate.

The room was full at the end of the keynote, with people sitting in the aisles and standing along the perimeter and in the door. So "most" of the people who were there stayed throughout and there is no doubt many of them were laughing throughout.

Intentional or not, I thought Joe's banter with Guy at the beginning made the program feel more like a tonight show format which is exactly what we were going for.

The thing to remember here, all, is that all of us involved in The Blogworld Closing Keynote Show were just trying to stage an event that would be informative while, at the same time, entertaining and memorable! I think we accomplished that.

The show's "guests" were selected because of their success in new media and blogging, and it was our hope that their interactions with Guy, their stories and their humor would offer up a nice insight overall. Again we weren't so much concerned with how "appropriate" they would be, but more with how entertaining and captivating they would be.

In hindsight, perhaps we should have "prepped" the guests, and Guy, a bit more, by conducting "pre-interviews" with them so we could offer up more material for Guy to run with. But we chose, rather, to put together this event, in some degree, like other "new media" content, and just put it out there and let it fly as it did.

I think I am speaking for everyone involved in saying that we were pleased, that the audience liked the show, and that this format was a "breath of fresh air" in a world of keynote addresses that tend to be just a tad TOO serious!

If we offended a few in the process, that's just the way it goes. But then, once again, isn't THAT what new media is all about?

It was just a closing keynote, people, not a presidential State Of The Union address! This event was not intended to change the world, but, rather, to just leave the attendees feeling good about their three days at Blogworld!

No, actually, new media isn't about offending people in the process. It's much bigger than that.

Wow, Paul, talk about taking a comment "out of context!" Are you sure you don't moonlight for FOX news??

Of course I didn't mean to say that new media is all about offending people. You have to take that one sentence and interpret it in context with the previous two paragraphs. New media is VERY much about just putting out content and then "letting if fly" without anywhere near as much pre-production planning and prepping as traditional media employs.

So, when a content creator more or less "throws stuff out there" into cyperspace, the Twitterverse, Facebookville or wherever, there's going to be that chance that a few will be offended in the process.

Still, thanks for the crash course in new media.

Rick,

miscommunication...

I didn't mean that the audience walked out during the keynote, I meant that when they walked out, most were like "WTF?"

Again, I enjoyed the hell out of it, but it was awkward.

Bingo Nathan!

And when your audience walks out wondering "what just happened?" and "did they mean it to go that way?" you lose the impact that a show like Blogworld deserves.

It looked like a bunch of kids who just learned how to swear.

coolio.

Rick...on a side note:

I think it's awesome that you were all over the place today responding to posts and comments. Regardless of the little things people have complained about, IMO you do the big things right.

Thank you Nathan.

Rick, thanks for the show and thanks for the comments.

My problem with the keynote wasn't the people or the content. They are rockstars and deserved the attention - and a hilarious send-off keynote could be a fun path to continue. There just tends to be this meme in some new media circles that what makes new media so great is that we can swear a lot. I actually think we're bigger than that and want to project that option to the press and media who is still trying to figure us out. When folk walk away going, "gosh, they sure do the NC17 thing well," I think they miss some of our best stuff.

Yes, agree, a simple warning before the show would have been all we needed. Strategically, I'd suggest a more "traditional media" friendly close, but that's just me.

Everyone, Rick is approachable and his contact information above does go directly to him. Let's continue this dialogue.

Rick, my offer with #7 stands.

P

Thanks for the quick reply Paul because I almost double commented to tell you I would love to talk to you about #7 ASAP 8)

give me a ring anytime, or DM/email to set up a time. I know how busy you are. For the moment I have a lot of free time on my hands =p.

After attending last year's NME, I was looking very forward to this year's event, and wasn't disappointed. I do agree that I would have liked to have seen a few more of the following:

1. Evening events that are outside of clubs where it's impossible to network. Sure, it's "cool" to have access to these places, but it certainly defeats (or at least seriously interferes with) the networking aspect. I found myself trying to help a few people with their podcast questions (see point #2 below), wile competing with "Lady GaGa" blasting over the speakers ;) Bravo and thanks again to Todd and the RawVoice guys for the Peppermill event. A couple of hours there was worth more than the access to the nighclubs in the casinos

2. More "real-world" and hands-on approaches to some of the seminars. Many people I spoke with were looking for more of the actual "how-to's," then screen shots of what they, or other people in their network have done monetarily.

3. More vendors int he exhibit hall. I was surprised last year at how few there were, but expected that with the joining of the two events, as well as the growth of "new media" (is it really that new anymore?), that there would have been more booths. Some companies that I expected to see from last year weren't even there, which was disappointing, but certainly no fault of the organizers

I think this event was incredibly beneficial, both in the speaker rooms as well as in the hallways, and I will definitely be back next year. I'd love to see it continue to grow. Thanks to everyone that made it all happen in the rooms, booths and parties and their commitments going forward. See you in 2010.

1 - Sorry I missed Todd's event. He's always put on a good party networking wise. He also brings microbrews so it's all good.

2 - Straight training is always a good thing.

3 - Agreed. I got a plan for that one. Hopefully Rick will sign off on it.

P

What I miss--and I don't know if Blogworld is the place for this or not--are the results and case studies from brand managers, B2B insights and other commercial applications for podcasts that the now-defunct Corporate Podcasting Summit at least attempted to touch on. Kudos to Rick for adding Leo and Adam Carolla at the last minute, which added some sorely-needed voices to the podcasting track, and I hope those voices are magnified next year. Sure, we need to continue to cover the basics, but we can't neglect the pros either.

And speaking of who wasn't there, while I share Paul's desire to see some of the podcast companies who were MIA this year return next year to support the industry, the real FAIL to me was the lack of traditional media broadcasters (TV and especially Radio) who are still repurposing on-air content for podcasts but going no further. Surely the podcasting veterans have insights to share with them, just as they have rich experience in marketing, sales and promotions to share with podcasters.

In any case, I'll be back next year, and we'll keep supporting the industry with research as we have for the past five years--but it's definitely time to grow up, and act "as if." Thanks for your post, Paul--good to see you in Vegas.

Tom, you know how much I love case studies. Wouldn't it be great to get everyone to release theirs at the show next year so the more lazy journalists can grab them all in one place?

P

Thanks Paul for this post, also for organizing the profitable podcasting breakfast and paying for the cab ride over. I met great people at the breakfast with whom I hope to keep in touch. Overall, attending Blogworld was very valuable for me. I learnt a lot in the sessions, and like I said I spent time with some really great people.

I do think some more information to attendees would help. A small example, I had no idea how to redeem my lunch coupons as a full access pass attendee. Saw a small sign on the Quizno's payment cart, thats how I figured it out. Maybe I missed some information.

I also agree that there should be more networking events that catered to people who don't drink or dance all that well. The tweets about pole dancing were especially intimidating!

That said, again, I think the conference organizers did a fabulous job offering a diversity of learning opportunities. I was so impressed with Rick Calvert's responsiveness pre, during, and post conference. Now, I have a lot to build on post conference.

I definitely want to see a series of pre-show training and content pieces on how to make the most of the event. Simple things like how to get lunch obvious fit in there.

For what it's worth, I didn't know about the coupons either.

Speaking of the breakfast, ss a result of our "Profitable Podcaster" meetup at Blogworld and New Media Expo 2009, we've launched a new "Profitable Podcaster" page at Facebook. - http://www.facebook.com/pages/Profitable-Podcasting/180648161022

Thanks for the comments.

P

P

1) Good use of name dropping in your tweet

2) I am one of those who misses some of the venues for networking that were in Ontario. The pool party was great for that on Saturday but the other official parties and many of the unofficial ones were in places where you would get hoarse just trying to talk. I think the show can be in Vegas and still have some of those. Kudos to Todd Cocraine for the RawVoice party where the beers were not $12 and the cokes $6 (Todd paid).

But, all in all I have a great time

1 - Thanks. So, marketing works? Is that what you're saying?

2 - Integrating intelligent venues for networking is a very smart idea. Todd always throws a classy party. What I'm pushing is that the problem is not Vegas, but what we're doing in Vegas. Part of what I want to propose to Rick is a very targeted networking track as well.

P

1) Good use of name dropping in the tweet

2) About missing Ontario, I think there was something lost in moving from Ontario that could inform the conference organizers. For example of that official parties only the pool party was quiet enough that people could actually network. And I also understand that there was a lot of frustration with Thursday's lunch (I was not there) where people finally had a chance to talk but a speak had been scheduled.

But all in all, I had a good time.

Paul it was nice to meet you at the event. I am taking all of the feedback in and will provide that to the guys at Blog World. I think they will definitely be listening as well. I'm sure they can use as much help as they can get during this formative time. Thanks for this recap and thoughts.

Before you deliver your summary, give these comments a day or two to finish. As you can see, we've got some important players delivering their two cents here.

Paul

Great post Paul!

I think the early naysayers who worried about the New Media Expo moving to LV have been proved wrong and the combined BlogWorld and NME has found a home.

The execution of the event was much better than I expected but really only seemed to kick into gear a month or two before the event. A lot of traction was missed as a lot of potential attendees were left without information until too late, resulting in some missing the show. I would hope that the herculean task of putting this together will commence much sooner for the next show so that people can assess the content much. much earlier and sign up with plenty of advance notice.

"Monetization/Real Money Track" - I may be able to help in that department ;-)

The bloggers and podcasters need to "meld" into content creators, both sets can learn from each other - again, a promising start and one that needs to be worked on for the next event.

Yeah, the final keynote was OTT but we can fix that.

Overall, a great first combined event which lays some pretty strong foundations for moving forward and growing the industry.

Count me in for next year!

Would kill to have you help with the track Don. And, yes, we can fix the keynote issue but the "larger" element of new/social/podcast media really needs to start coming off like adults needs to be addressed as well.

P

Hi Paul,

I was in attendance at the Blog World Expo and I agree with your evaluation of this year's event. Great event and it and our industry can take it up a couple of notches if we all work together for the common good. I agree the closing event left me feeling out of sorts. Felt it offered no value except that I was happy for the guys doing the Star Wars Spoof on Youtube, having the success they are experiencing.

I also feel we need more concrete and clear information on how to intelligently monetize social media.
Faith
http://www.thenewfutureofnetworkmarketing.com

Yah, the Chad Vader guys were inspiring and, let's face it, when Hollywood and Silicon Valley stars are encouraging you to act like 13 year olds, it's hard to not get mixed into the fold. Personally I blame the thing on Guy Kawasaki. He's a lot smarter than this.

I agree fully with you Paul and feel that podcasting is in fact growing up. The maturation process is full steam ahead now. It is getting very real and growth is continuing. Good example is the streaming industry and how it has now matured into a big money making business. I think this will happen to the podcasting industry as well, but it will take more refining of the user experience and more connections to smaller and larger screens to make this industry successful. Podcasting as we know it today will need to better adapt to simpler user interfaces and greater integration with other social media platforms. The BlogWorld event is THE event for us and the future is more around social media. Blogging and Podcasting are important, but not the complete picture anymore. It appears that social media has significant legs in perception now and blogging, twittering, facebooking, websites, mobile apps and podcasting are all part of that mix now. This event should be the MAJOR event for this wave of online social connectiveness. I will contine to do all I can to support this show. I was able to bring sponsorship to the New Media Expo last year and BlogWorld the year before. Next year is something that I will work on. Either way, I will personally be in attendence to do all that I can at that level. Rob Greenlee

Rob you've been our one champion inside of Microsoft and I appreciate you for that. If there is anything we can do to help you convince Microsoft, please let us know.

Paul

It was great to see you there Paul and thanks for being at my session. I always like workshops that feel more like discussions and less like a monologue.

I've been through the maturation of a couple of industries and there are always growing pains. It's part of the natural process when the players are all trying to find their way and blazing new trails.

On the one hand, you see a lot of people crash and burn. On the other hand, it's fun as heck to have a front row seat to see an industry evolve.

See you soon.

Your session was one of the better ones there (they usually are) and it was nice to see numbers directly associated with names and not "there is this one guy who ..." type nonsense. Didn't mean to interrupt but the "discussion" from the audience was getting silly and just had to do something. Thanks for being a great sport.

Paul

Super post Paul!

This was my third year of attending the New Media Expo in one capacity or another. I'm saving my pennies for next year and hope to be back. Ontario was interesting but there's so much more than podcasting that needs to be addressed that happened at this conference (blogging and social media - the bigger picture - it's all part of the direction the Web is taking).

Speaking of racking up bills, I'm a small company and it was not an easy decision to come! ...I was telling Chris Brogan I wrestled myself to the floor Thursday night before the conference and both lost and won the fight to come ;-) I just knew I needed to be here and I am SO glad I came!

Lastly, yeah, the final keynote; hmmm... Okay... let's just say that, in my mind, the final keynote should be a wrap-up, a summary and both a visionary and inspiring talk that leaves people on a high, ramped up to go out and conquer and revved up, looking forward to the next conference. This final keynote left me scratching my head and confused as to the purpose of it.

I don't think you should be taking flak about your comments on the final keynote. I think you should be applauded for your leadership in speaking your mind.

Thanks for this post Paul; it inspired me enough to comment! ;-) I'm sure I'll be seding you next year.

There were 2 issues with the final keynote: 1) Did nothing and accomplished nothing 2) made us look like a bunch of 13 year olds. Thanks for the comments.

Super post Paul!

This was my third year of attending the New Media Expo in one capacity or another. I'm saving my pennies for next year and hope to be back. Ontario was interesting but there's so much more than podcasting that needs to be addressed that happened at this conference (blogging and social media - the bigger picture - it's all part of the direction the Web is taking).

Speaking of racking up bills, I'm a small company and it was not an easy decision to come! ...I was telling Chris Brogan I wrestled myself to the floor Thursday night before the conference and both lost and won the fight to come ;-) I just knew I needed to be here and I am SO glad I came!

Lastly, yeah, the final keynote; hmmm... Okay... let's just say that, in my mind, the final keynote should be a wrap-up, a summary and both a visionary and inspiring talk that leaves people on a high, ramped up to go out and conquer and revved up, looking forward to the next conference. This final keynote left me scratching my head and confused as to the purpose of it.

I don't think you should be taking flak about your comments on the final keynote. I think you should be applauded for your leadership in speaking your mind.

Thanks for this post Paul; it inspired me enough to comment! ;-) I'm sure I'll be seding you next year.

Paul,

As always, insightful and on target. I have to admit, we just sent one person, Robby LeBlanc, to see what it was all about, this year.

From reading your comments, and others here, we'll bring ou US staff next time, and support the cause, as well as gain the benifits of meet and greet in person. I miss the old Comdex days, this has potential to attract lots of folks.

I hope you get to share you ideas with the other "Rick".

Rick Dearr

Rick, I hope you can bring your staff and share with us who that staff is ;-).

Paul

Yes, I agree this is something big #bwe09 that is, next year there should be more sessions with more people involved (the whole social thing in effect) the lighting rounds were interesting too. Next year should it be called New Media or Social Media?

Blogworld and Internet Media Expo? P

Paul,
I love what Rick and BlogWorld have done for me in the last two years. But I had to get up and leave the final presentation because I couldn't take the NC-17 stuff.. And I am 55 and grew up in construction.

Every other part of the convention was excellent. I agree that this is an real industry where we should be looking at ways to share our ideas to create some some real money for everyone who wants to go after it.

Safe trip back to Portland...

Paul,
I love what Rick and BlogWorld have done for me in the last two years. But I had to get up and leave the final presentation because I couldn't take the NC-17 stuff.. And I am 55 and grew up in construction.

Every other part of the convention was excellent. I agree that this is an real industry where we should be looking at ways to share our ideas to create some some real money for everyone who wants to go after it.

Safe trip back to Portland...

Top ten ways to tell you maybe went over the line ... at number ten ... "construction guys" are walking out on you. Thanks for being honest.

Paul- wonderful post! I was in your session about monetization and truly opened my eyes to a lot of new ideas. More tips on this next year would rock!

Acting like grownups no question... While working for a large financial corporation, I am trying to introduce and persuade social media to the business. I have to get leadership involved, if my leadership was in the closing keynote that would have definitely confirmed a "NO" with social media.

Your vision and passion throughout this expo was extraordinary and I hope to keep in touch with you!

Thanks for everything
Chris

Thanks for your comments on how a "large financial corporation" would respond. You're dead on and if we want to "win" this game, we need to act like we want to "win" this game.

Excellent write-up, Paul. I'm new to the podcasting arena and would have loved to see some more podcast hardware/software vendors at BlogWorld. I have questions that answered so much more effectively in a 5 minute chat than any product description on a website can do. I'm sure I'm not the only one.

I, too, will be offering my assistance to Rick and team for next year's BlogWorldExpo. I'll leave the podcasting side to you, but have some thoughts for other aspects and am willing to help!

Cheers,

John

I'm sure Rick will notice your comment and respond accordingly.

Right on Paul. It's still a small - and perhaps even struggling - show, but it's OUR show and we need to help make it happen. See you next year, TWiTs in tow.

Your commitment to the industry speaks loudly. I hope others follow suit. Thank you Leo.