Taking Social Media Local with a PodCamp Unconference
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Over the past few weeks, with the help of a few local friends, I have been planning and organizing a local event called a “PodCamp” Unconference.
Have you heard of a “PodCamp” before?
Have you heard of an “Unconference” before?
If not… no worries… I only heard of them recently myself.
A PodCamp is a “usually” free open forum community UnConference for new media enthusiasts, professionals or those just curious or wanting to learn more about it. This is including bloggers, podcasters, YouTubers, social networkers (Facebook, Twitter, etc). It is meant for anyone with any level of interest, knowledge or experience in new media.
Do not get mislead by the “Pod” in PodCamp though… it isn’t just about podcasting! If you’re interested in blogging, social media, social networking, podcasting, video on the net or anything like that… for your business or personal use… this is for you.
OK but what is an “Unconference”?
An unconference is a facilitated, participant-driven conference centered around a theme or purpose. The term “unconference” has been applied, or self-applied, to a wide range of gatherings that try to avoid one or more aspects of a conventional conference, such as high fees and sponsored presentations.
The idea is based on the idea of transforming conferences from one way conversations to two way communications. Instead of attendees simply sitting there and being talked at, they can present topics, participate in conversations… or if they wish… simply sit there and soak it all in.
So why am I organizing one?
New Media is not just about communicating to the world… it is also about reaching deeper into your own backyard. There is a huge intimidation about how new media can be effectively used by small businesses and what I want to do is help my local community understand that by starting the conversation.
If you would like to learn more about attending or hosting a “PodCamp” in your local community, check out http://podcamp.pbworks.com/
If you are anywhere near my frigid northern town of Sault Ste Marie… and are free on February 20th… then check out…
Soo Pod Camp – The Sault Ste Marie Social Media Unconference at http://soopodcamp.com/
(still have a bit of work to do on the blog… but will get that finished over the next couple days)
Would love to see some of you there… heck would love to see any of you there… even one 
I helped set up and facilitate a podcamp in Topeka last September and it was a great way to meet people. We had a great turnout and I highly recommend going if one is in your area.
I see where you’re going with this. And I like it.
I heard this word first time but I will do research on this and try to understand more about so we can try some short of marketing and make some cash out of it.
Thanks for sharing it
Interesting concept!
Honestly I had never heard this word “Pod Camp”. Thanks for creating such a great community. Definitely I will be researched and joined your community to learn something new.
Unfortunately, I am no where near Sault Ste Marie, but it sounds like it’s going to be an interesting conference.
Podcasting – I’m not there yet.
What a wonderful idea. I would have liked to join your PodCamp but the only problem is that I like in UK and not free on 20th Feb. Will you update the PodCamp campaign pics and updates after the event?
Looking forward for your experience on this new concept PodCamp.
Thanks for sharing.
i think local is the way to go, i’m fed up with the global side of the internet. makes sense to me.