As previously mentioned in the weekend wrap up, Podcasters Across Borders (PAB) went down this weekend in the Limestone City. This is the third year PAB was hosted in Kingston, and my first year attending. Alongside members of the Limestone New Media Group, CBC Broadcasters and podcasting talents from all over the world, we enjoyed engaging speakers and got to make a lot of new friends in the fishbowl that is new media. The connection to the community is ultimately the most important thing that I took away from the weekend, however there are certainly other aspects worth noting.
Having never been to a “pod camp”, or new media conference I honestly did not know what to expect at PAB08. I worried that there would be awkward conversations between strangers, and presentations that were over and above my level of comprehension. Thankfully I was met with the exact opposite. The presentations were informative yet down to earth, and although it’s not fair to mention only a few, if I recapped all of them this would be the longest Kingstonist post in history. Tim Coyne was one of my personal favorites as he spoke about being “Public in Private”. The Hollywood-based podcaster drew references from his experiences as an actor in LA, and his relationship with his father. Scarborough Dude and John Meadows presentation also left a lasting impression. Through the use of a hearty helping of vulgar comedy, they urged the us to push the limit of what is considered appropriate new media content. These people were all strangers to me before I attended PAB, but after hearing them speak, I am giving their podcasts a listen. You should give them a listen as well.
In between the longer presentations, shorter “jolt” sessions were held, offering lucky presenters a spot at the podium for 5 minutes. These were amazingly fast, and funny as hell. Thankfully, we recorded a few jolts, which can be viewed on our YouTube channel. Although his video was cut off because I ran out of memory, Chris Brogan‘s jolt is still ringing my ears, in a good way. His name was thrown around quite a lot over the course of the weekend, but it wasn’t until he took the stage that I realized why he is known and loved by many. Chris spoke about the monetization of social media, how undervalued PAB really is, and he reminded us that we can’t eat hugs.
All and all, PAB08 was an amazing learning experience, which allowed me to dream up new plans for Kingstonist. I am also happy to have finally met Mark Blevis and Bob Goyetche, co-organizers of PAB and hosts of the Canadian Podcast Buffet. There are so many others, although as I’ve said, the list is way too long to pay homage to everyone. I’ll do it justice by simply saying that I am already looking forward to seeing everyone back in Kingston for PAB09. With any luck, Kingstonist and the Limestone New Media Group will be prepared to make greater contributions next year, and ensure this fantastic event stays in Kingston. See you next year PAB-ers!
A complete list of speakers and an overview of their presentations can be found here, while a list of attendees and their respective websites is located on the right hand side of the PAB website. As well, you can also see pictures from the weekend on our Flickr.
Keep your fingers crossed, as a little birdie told me that PAB09 is coming back to Kingston!