PodCamp San Antonio — Just About Perfect
“Just About Perfect” may be far from the truth. But I only say that because PodCamp San Antonio was only my first such experience, but I definitely benefitted from being there. San Antonio is often described as a big city with a small-town attitude. Well, the same can be said of the PodCamp: a small and intimate group with a wealth of information to contribute. I came in empty-handed, and left trying to remember what I couldn’t fit on my business cards. Luckily, a more-seasoned veteran, Gary Leland (aka. P. Dilly), shared a similar observation of PodCamp San Antonio:
Normally when I travel to these events I choose to skip many of the actual seminars. Rather than sitting and listening, I prefer networking and meeting with people. This setting allowed me the best of both worlds. I listened to more speakers than I have at any other event.
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Aside from learning more in 6 hours of interacting with other bloggers than reading hundreds of blogs in the last 6 weeks, I made a few new friends…and resuscitated a couple of old friendships. Two of my old high school classmates were in attendance as well. Richard Galvan provided the audio/video support for the unconference, and Joseph Palumbo and I caught up as he enlightened me on how to implement my new project.
UnUnConference…ish
When I first arrived, the PodCamp seemed to take on the form of a conference. One stage in front, an audience, and some keynote speakers. But the last few hours were much more effective…more like an unconference should be. Smaller groups formed to discuss a variety of topics. Others congregated in the corners or out on the patio for more fortuitous discussions. Carol Turner streamed a few of the presentations. The German Cowboy shared his experiences with podcasting. And Chris Doelle (that’s “daily”, in case you’re wondering) took care of the social responsibilities. 
Upcoming PodCamps
You can see a list of upcoming PodCamps by visiting the PodCamp Community Wiki. The next PodCamp San Antonio is scheduled for May 17, 2008. Special thanks to the organizers of PodCamp San Antonio for organizing such a great event.
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May 22nd, 2007 at 11:31 am
Thanks for the kind words. You’re right, it did take on a conference-ish feel until we broke it up. We have plans to avoid that next time around by having more than one presentation going at once. This should encourage wandering and side conversations amongst the attendees.
The best learning does occur when interacting with others. Beyond that, the networking alone makes unconferences valuable.
May 22nd, 2007 at 2:07 pm
It was a great event. Everyone that attended was positive and once the face-to-face stuff started happenening, it was pure gold. It was great meeting with you and hearing about the things you are doing… I look forward to a longer conversation somewhere down the line.
May 25th, 2007 at 10:44 am
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