studionashvegas | design and social media

I love doing un-conferences – there’s something about the community that’s attracted to a conference who’s mantra is all about information flowing freely.  It’s the morning after the combined PodCamp and WordCamp experience in Columbus, Ohio, and my head is still spinning from the fun times.

I gave two presentations: my staple presentation (and my strong point in the WordPress world) titled “How to Use WordPress for Dang Near Anything” – which basically equates to “Using WordPress as a CMS”, and an introduction to WordPress session.  I love doing the WordPress 101 sessions because it gives me a chance to really share my passion with others on WordPress, and it’s typically people who are more curious, eager to learn, and willing to ask lots of questions – which they did.

Ohio has some great people, and I met a lot more of them today (and was bummed because some of my good friends weren’t able to make it).  There are people here who are just as passionate about podcasting, blogging, linkedin, and all other manner of speciality as I am about WordPress.  Getting that many passionate people in a room together to talk means for some high energy – and lots of great discussions.

We’re heading back to Nashville today, but thanks again to all of the organizers, the sponsors, and all of the other speakers and participants for making the event so fantastic.  I’ll miss you guys, but please, feel free to keep in touch on twitter.

Here are my slides from my “WordPress as a CMS” session – they are a little outdated because of WordPress 3.0, but not by much – the rest of the technology will work together with 3.0 really well.

It was sort of last minute last night, but I did get a chance to join Dr. Anonymous, AngeloMandato (congrats again on the baby – hope it wasn’t me that spoiled your secret), Brandice, Daniel, and podcasting newcomer Brad (?) in Dr. Anonymous’ weekly show over on BlogTalkRadio.  It was a great time (and I got to show off the obligitory baby pictures) and talk about some things being discussed on the PodCampOhio front.

We discussed whether or not the event should be a one or two (well, one-and-a-half) day event.  Personally, if it could be coordinated to work, then absolutely.  But it’s a tough challenge for the promoters and organizers, most of which are donating their time.  It’s also hard for the people who come in from out of town (like myself) to get hotels for multiple days and arrange work schedules to match a two-day event.

We also talked to Brad about what beginning podcasters can do to overcome their shyness on-air.  If you’re sort of creeped out by hearing your own voice, record yourself reading your favorite book.  Since it’s something you enjoy, you’ll be passionate about it, and you will enjoy what you hear.

So big thanks again to everyone who came, and don’t forget Dr. A has a monthly PodCamp show that’s fantastic and has a lot of great things going on. So, don’t miss it!