MediaBlather » publshing

106: Freelance Destruction

admin — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 03:35:27 +0000

As recently as a couple of years ago freelance writing was a popular way for journalists to make a living. The pay wasn’t great, but the work was interesting and most professional freelancers could make a reasonable income.

Today, things are very different. Freelance rates have fallen through the floor as publications have shriveled and community journalism operations like Associated Content and Demand Media have brought legions of writers into the market working for pennies on the dollar. They produce a lot of content, but is it any good?

David and Paul are all for media democratization, but they also believe the quality of some of the information we get today has declined precipitously over the past few years. One example is product reviews and analysis. While more people than ever are beating on the new iPad and documenting their experiences these days, few of them apply the methodological rigor and discipline of professional reviewers. It’s easy to get opinions now, but not necessarily opinions you can trust.

Hands-on technical reviews have been a major part of David’s business for a long time, and he’s adjusting to the new world by self-publishing and finding new sponsors for his expertise. Our hosts tackle the pros and cons of freelance destruction. Are we really better off?

Right-click here to download

104: The Joy of Geocaching

strom — Sun, 18 Apr 2010 13:46:31 +0000

Paul and David return to the podcasting airwaves with a special show this week and an odd twist. Paul and his wife Dana have just published their latest book called The Joy of Geocaching. The couple, who have enjoyed the sport for many years, took time to interview dozens of cachers, as they are called, from around the world to tell their stories and provide a very readable guide to beginners. In the book are tips to get started, what equipment to purchase and Web sites to use, and other practical information. But the real treasure is how the common bond of caching has created this strong sense of purpose and trust among fellow cachers, and Paul and Dana tell some of the more interesting tales.

Audio link (right click to download)

58: IDG’s Online Transformation

admin — Mon, 12 May 2008 14:11:39 +0000

This week we have the privilege of speaking to Pat McGovern, chairman of International Data Group and the world’s most successful technology media executive. McGovern today oversees a $3 billion global media empire that spans more 90 countries and reaches more than 220 million people.

Amidst the constant churn in the information technology market, IDG has patiently grown and adapted through a philosophy of diversification, reader service and global expansion. In this interview, McGovern discusses:

How the economics of electronic media make it a better business model than print;
How Scandinavia and Asia are the leading the way in Internet innovation;
How IDG’s experience with taking a business unit public convinced him of the value of keeping the company private;
IDG’s new “Internet-first” strategy;
How investments in Chinese entrepreneurs has transformed IDG’s business.

Pat McGovern’s success demonstrates the power of staying focused, adapting to change, experimenting and sticking with a long-term vision.

Download the podcast (25:44)