Braggadocio Blog

Social Networks: Where Agencies & Journalists Unite

2009-06-11T17:25:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading an article over at MediaShift on how "Journalists Should Customize Social Networks to Maximize Experience." As someone who frequently interfaces with journalists, or shall I say "attemps to," the one thing that all PR pros struggle with is determining WHO to pitch to. I 100% understand the nuisance of having to filter through numerous irrelevant press releases and news tips a day sent to your Inbox, but if journalists were forced to spend less time acting as gatekeepers and perhaps spent more time on social networks, then maybe....just maybe.... the agencies and the journalists could develop a mutually beneficial relationship. "What!? Could it be possible?"

Going back to my original statement about determining who to pitch to in the media: the real challenge is learning what the journalist actually covers and/or is interested in. Surely some journalists write about topics they have no interest in, but naturally they'll be more inclined to pick up or even pass on a story of real interest. This is where social networks can really come in handy. Ideally, social networks would serve as a playing field of sorts where the press and the agencies could actually communicate with each other rather than have the agencies bombard journalists with their press releases. Ultimately, the idea would be for journalists to engage in real conversations with us by utilizing their social networks.

This article has some interesting insights on how to utilize social networks to your benefit. I look forward to meeting you on the battlefield.

The Death of Media Relations

2009-06-04T12:54:00.000-07:00

Not to sound all melodramatic with the title, but let's face it: PR, or more specifically, "Media Relations," is slowly dying out. That isn't to say the entire industry is going to crash, but that it's evolving into something else. That something else is "Customer Relations" in junction with the rise of Social Media. Don't believe me? Continue reading below for an article on "The Next 50 Years of Public Relations" by "PRsquared" as proof:
When people talk about the “Death of Public Relations,” it doesn’t bother me at all. I know what they are talking about. They are talking about the death of MEDIA RELATIONS.

That’s what PR’s been all about for the past 50-odd years. After all, during that era, the only way to reach the masses in a reliable way was through mass media.

Now that that’s changing, our approach can change. PUBLIC RELATIONS can fulfill its mandate to improve RELATIONS with the PUBLIC.

Media Relations will still have a role. PR will not be subsumed by Customer Service. PR has a role as an overlay; a facilitator; we serve as both a counselor and tactician across these areas.

The next 50 years will be better than the last 50 years.

U2, Eminem, ABC, Selena Gomez...Who Could Ask For Anything More?

2009-05-28T12:53:00.000-07:00

Newsflash.....

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Mutiny Pictures 2nd Quarter Round-up: U2, Eminem, ABC, Selena Gomez, And Drew Seeley

Los Angeles-based Mutiny Pictures reports busy winter and spring with key accounts including Interscope Records, ABC, and Razor & Tie Records’ Selena Gomez and Drew Seeley

Los Angeles, CA (May 2009)- Mutiny Pictures, a Los Angeles-based film company specializing in online branded entertainment and webisode production, made several company announcements through founder Michael Pierce on recent high-profile projects that showcase their branding capabilities and post-production expertise.

Mutiny Pictures director Kenny Stoff recently teamed up with U2 to document the launch of the band’s first album in five years. “3 Nights Live” featured a three day, whirlwind tour from Los Angeles, Chicago and Boston where the band mingled with fans and the media in a Q&A session hosted by Shirley Manson. The Boston stop culminated with an intimate, live performance featuring songs from U2’s new record “No Line On The Horizon.”

In addition to U2, Kenny Stoff was reunited with Interscope Records’ artist Eminem to create a 30 minute program of original content for the making of his new video. “We Made This” is the lead single from his latest LP, Relapse, and is currently appearing on MTV and M2. Stoff and Eminem previously collaborated on the MTV hit “Making the Ass” which featured the puppetry of Crank Yankers and performances by Sarah Silverman and Jimmy Kimmel.

“We know we can rely on Kenny Stoff and the Mutiny Pictures team for great creative with quick post production turnarounds,” remarked Michelle An of Interscope Records. “We trust them with our most prominent artists and they continue to impress.”

Stoff also directed the music video “New Classic” for Razor & Tie Records’ Selena Gomez and Drew Seeley. The track is from the soundtrack of Disney’s “Another Cinderella Story” and has, to date, attracted over 500,000 views on YouTube.

Company directors Stephen Brown and Erin Brown also teamed up to direct the music video for The Strange Familiar and their song “Courage Is.” The music of The Strange Familiar is currently being featured on the ABC show “Secret Life of An American Teenager.” The music video takes a subtle, heartfelt and credible approach to teen pregnancy and the adversity of life.
Added Pierce: “Its exciting to work with such a wonderful group of artists and I’m extremely proud of the work Kenny Stoff, Erin Brown and Stephen Brown have created. I am looking forward to the second half of 2009 and continuing to push the limits of traditional and new media.”

About Mutiny Pictures
Mutiny Pictures is a turnkey production through post-production solution for film, television, commercials and title sequence needs. The company offers a unique pairing of experienced directors and high-end visual effects and post production. Client accounts include J. Walter Thompson, McCann Erickson, ABC, Sony BMG and Universal Music Group, T-Mobile, GM, Lexus, BBDO, Team One, David and Goliath, and DDB.

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SenditCertified Launches Health IT Initiative, Security On The Cloud

2009-05-28T12:50:00.001-07:00

Newsflash.....

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

SenditCertified Launches Health IT Initiative To Power Secure Email “On The Cloud”

U.S.-based SenditCertified launches a division specifically geared toward Health IT as consumers, government, and the healthcare industry look for cost-effective alternatives to sensitive information exchange

Charlotte, North Carolina (May 2009) – SenditCertified (http://www.senditcertified.com/), developer of the patent-pending ePackage™, has announced the launch of a division geared toward solving the ubiquitous Health IT problem. Healthcare providers, employers, insurers, including the government and its stakeholders, are currently spending millions to update archaic systems, streamline processes, and ensure compliance with industry regulations.

With SenditCertified’s ePackage™, a “security on the cloud” solution, medical stakeholders and patients are ensured that sensitive information is exchanged via a secure, web-based, private global network in a matter of minutes, while remaining in compliance with key government mandates such as HIPPA. Medical test results, medical health records, and other confidential information sent via SenditCertified travel from Sender to Receiver without bouncing around on unsecure networks where information is vulnerable to hackers and identity thieves.

“With the growing popularity of industry segments like Medical Tourism, and the general need for information exchange via a secure method, we saw an opportunity to introduce the SenditCertified technology to the healthcare industry,” remarked SenditCertified CEO Dr. Steve McAdams, who is also a medical professional.

The company, foreseeing a jump in Medical Tourism as the cost of healthcare continues to increase, has also engaged healthcare expert Gabriel Varga who will serve to navigate the growing market segment and facilitate division expansion into other medical industry sectors.

Added Varga: “The SenditCertified technology could not have come at a better time for the healthcare industry, specifically the Medical Tourism industry. As someone who has been working in global healthcare for several years, I am amazed at the potential for a company like SenditCertified to provide a streamlined solution for powering all communication between medical professionals, insurers, patients, and other stakeholders who have a vested interest in secure information exchange.”

About SenditCertified
SenditCertified (http://www.blogger.com/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/Low/Content.IE5/AppData/Local/Temp/www.SenditCertified.com) was founded in 2006 by a group of top-industry IT professionals whose vast experience in researching and developing ground-breaking biometric technologies led to the creation of the patent-pending ePackage™. SenditCertified technology solutions are specifically catered to each market segment, and the company currently serves the Government, Security Services, Healthcare, Medical Tourism, International Business Consulting, and Financial Services industries.

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Using Twitter to Grow Your Business

2009-05-27T21:42:00.000-07:00

BusinessWeek recently published an interesting article on how Twitter can be used to "Build Businesses Tweet by Tweet." It does a great job of communicating this actually and I just couldn't wait to share it with you. If your business isn't on Twitter, then you're truly missing out. Heck, even if you don't have an account you should be using it's real time search tool to monitor what people are saying about you. Continue reading below for the full article on how to utilize Twitter to your company's benefit and then tweet away!

Here's what happened when Chris Savage, the chief executive of Wistia.com, searched for the phrase "private video sharing" on Twitter, a social networking site. One post he found read, "A teacher requested a private 'video sharing' Web site so that specialists can observe student behavior—can anyone refer one?"

That got Savage's attention. He e-mailed back: "Still looking for a private video sharing site?"

Minutes later came the reply: "YES! It's the first request for one—thought I'd hit up my tweets before [I] go digging."

Savage: "Cool. You may want to check out Wistia.com. Full disclosure, I'm the CEO; -)"

While this exchange may seem a bit cryptic, Savage is one of a growing number of business owners to whom it makes an awful lot of sense. Savage frequently trolls Twitter looking for sales leads for his five-person, $1 million company, which makes software that facilitates video sharing through a private network. Although Savage has been using Twitter for only a year, it's already helped him find 12 new clients for his Lexington (Mass.) company. "This is a no-cost way of marketing," he says. Because Twitter provides a public forum, each post becomes a form of promotion as other users follow Savage's posts. "You are building a reputation; people can go back and look at your Web site and the quality of your content, and you are becoming part of the community," Savage says. Other business owners are using Twitter for market research and to keep an eye on customer service issues.

BREVITY'S BRAWN

Twitter distinguishes itself from MySpace (NWS) and Facebook by relying less on picture-laden profiles and more on posts of fewer than 140 characters, referred to as "tweets" or "microblogs." Twitter's simplicity is paired with a powerful search function that allows users to mine others' updates in real time for useful nuggets. "Twitter lets you stay on top of what is happening within your client base," says Chip Lambert, owner of Network2Networth, a business development consultancy in Phoenix. "You can look at conversations and reposition yourself, your products, and your services in a way that appeals to the market you are reaching out to."

An estimated 5 million people use Twitter, according to Cambridge-based Forrester Research. Twitter co-founder Biz Stone says businesses "that are not quite big enough to make an impact on the Web, or to spend resources there," have been some of the earliest users of the site. He says some San Francisco-based coffee shops and bakeries have sent tweets to tell their customers about specials or products they may be out of that day. One Los Angeles taco truck uses Twitter to tell customers where it will be that day. "Businesses use this as a hybrid between marketing and customer service," says Stone. "They use the Twitter Search to track mentions of their products and services and as a way to begin a conversation."

Like any online forum, Twitter may not be for everyone. Its immediacy and conversational nature make it a boon to those whose products and services may take a bit more explaining or back-and-forth. And it can be a time suck. "One of the major drawbacks is that [Twitter] is very addictive," says Savage, who has 800 followers and in turn follows just as many. He uses a popular add-on called Tweet Deck, which lets members organize messages by category.

GETTING STARTED

Joining Twitter is easy and free. You create a user name and password, then log onto the site. (You can also sign up to have tweets delivered to your mobile phone.) Once inside, there's a big box at the top labeled "What are you doing?" While you could start by typing something as mundane as "I am drinking my coffee and checking out Twitter," you'll see tabs on the right that say "following," "followers," and "updates," enabling you to follow others whose posts you find interesting. Once you've been posting for a while, people follow you too. A certain viral element takes over, and soon you may wind up in the middle of a Twitter community with common interests.

You'll also find thousands of irrelevant posts. "It is easy to get lost and sidetracked," says Lambert, who suggests entrepreneurs think strategically about how they might use Twitter. A mortgage broker, for example, could follow discussions people are having about new tax credits, learn what advice they're getting and which sites they're linking to, and then compose a suitable message to address them.

The viral component of Twitter has helped Andra Watkins, founder of Positus, a consulting firm based in Charleston, S.C. She joined Twitter about six months ago, and at first found it a bit daunting. "I did not grow up using these tools and it has taken me time to develop the voice and approach," she says. Still, she has built a following of 600 Twitterers—friends, colleagues, bloggers, and potential customers. She in turn follows about 600 other people, including a group from her home state of South Carolina—85% of whom she figures could help bring in business. She also follows influential bloggers and those with large Twitter followings, in hopes of establishing a dialogue with them, and keeps tabs on her competitors. Watkins sometimes sends out tweets that have nothing to do with her business, such as a few complaining about exercise. "It makes me more approachable," Watkins says. In the past six months, she's found 10 new paying clients through Twitter.

Other business owners, like Michael Coffey, chief executive of BlueCotton in Bowling Green, Ky., are using Twitter to enhance customer service. The 25-employee, $4 million company lets customers design their own shirts online. For the past two months, two of Coffey's factory workers have used iPhones to snap pictures of completed shirts, and then to send photo tweets to customers right before shipping. "Customers have some anxiety when they purchase shirts online," Coffey says. The tweets help alleviate those concerns—and have won new customers who spot the designs on Twitter. "Having people follow BlueCotton is a feather in our cap," Coffey says. "It helps create real fans of the company."

Monitoring Your Social Networks

2009-05-21T20:18:00.000-07:00

Social media has become a beast. The number of social networks available is unimaginable and trying to be monitor all of them is almost impossible. Luckily, there are several free (& some paid) web applications and tools that allow you to actually filter through all the noise and hear just what is being said about YOU. And trust me, you want to know. I mean, how cool is it that you can have almost instant feedback on your latest product, ad campaign, etc? It's absolutely crazy how so many people are neglecting this!

If you're ahead of the curve though and want to find out what tools are available to help you really listen to your customers, then click here for a list created by Clay McDaniel of Spring Creek Group for MarketingProfs.com.

Millionares And Microfinance: Cal Net Technology Group Teams Up With Liesel Pritzker

2009-05-19T19:18:00.000-07:00

Newsflash....

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Cal Net Technology Group CEO Joins YAO’s Liesel Pritzker To Fight Poverty Through Microfinance

Zack Schuler, Founder & CEO of IT consulting firm Cal Net Technology Group, will join YAO Chair Liesel Pritzker to raise funds for capitalizing a bank in Tanzania.

Los Angeles, CA (April 2009) – Cal Net Technology Group (www.CalNetTech.com) has announced that Founder & CEO Zack Schuler will serve on the board with Young Ambassadors For Opportunity (YAO) Chair Liesel Pritzker to raise awareness for the organization in order to increase the involvement of young, visionary entrepreneurs.

YAO, an initiative of Opportunity International, is geared towards engaging young visionaries through its educational programs, fundraising efforts, and networking events, all of which serve to raise awareness and funds for YAO’s initial project of capitalizing a bank in Tanzania.

“I’ve been approached by hundreds of organizations asking for donations, company gift matching programs, and my personal time, but YAO was a standout because of its empowering, business-like approach to the poverty epidemic,” remarked Schuler.

Added Pritzker: “For YAO to be successful, we depend on individuals who have both the business savvy and passion for meeting our ultimate objective: to eradicate poverty. With Zack’s large network of clients and personal contacts throughout Southern California and the U.S., I know that YAO’s name and mission will soon be top of mind among young entrepreneurs, businesses, and other potential partners.”

In addition to Cal Net Technology Group’s official endorsement of YAO, the relationship will serve to accomplish three specific goals:

Recruit new ambassadors for YAO
Raise funds to capitalize International bank in Tanzania
Educate Cal Net’s employees about YAO

About Cal Net Technology Group
Founded in 1995, Cal Net Technology Group provides Southern California’s businesses with technology solutions expertise ranging from outsourced I.T. services to ongoing support and consultation. Their signature service, TECManage, is designed to provide a cost-effective option for companies who need the services of full-time I.T personnel.

About Young Ambassadors For Opportunity (YAO)
Young Ambassadors For Opportunity (YAO) is committed to strengthening impoverished communities through the power of microfinance and the work of Opportunity International. The organization is comprised of a visionary, new generation of globally minded young people -- emerging leaders who are joining forces to eradicate poverty around the world.

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Twitter Twitter Bo Bitter, Fa-nana nana Fo Fitter, Twitter....

2009-05-12T07:46:00.000-07:00

If you read any sort of reputable news source these days, you're guaranteed to read about two things over and over and over...and possibly over: the fact that death is imminent vis-a-vis the swine flu, and that Twitter is the hottest thing since, well, Google. Maybe if you're living on a farm in Kansas, doing real work, then you will care less. But for someone who has to be enamored with all things social media, I do care. I care a lot.

Found this article on Businessweek.com via Media Bistro via PRNewser about Twittering CEOS. Weird, I didn't find out about it on Twitter. Hmm?

My favorite part from the article, and the best thing I've read all week:

"It's important for companies to understand all aspects of social media to successfully innovate in this space. Social media risks becoming an end in itself when people are constantly broadcasting themselves online in search of affirmation. If users spend more time announcing what they're doing than actually doing it, social media could, paradoxically, end up making people less sociable."

I'm truly looking forward to my unsocialble life and my impending death from swine flu. When will it all go away?

Optimizing Your Press Release

2009-05-07T21:02:00.000-07:00

Earlier today I attended a webinar presented by my favorite resources for all things Social Media and PR related: MarketWire & PRESSfeed. Titled "Learn the Secrets of Optimized Press Releases," the hosts presented 3 types of releases (traditional, optimized & social media press releases) in addition to the 11 steps towards creating an optimized press release.

In "NM" (new media) language, an "optimized press release" is one that is specifically for an online audience. Whereas traditional press releases are targeted towards traditional media, optimized releases allow you to speak directly to your target audience. In other words, there are no gatekeepers (i.e. editors) who decide whether or not your release is newsworthy and worthy of distribution. You can do it all yourself with Web 2.0. The following are the 11 steps towards creating an optimized press release:

1. Determine what the release is going to be about. Gather data and information and look it over to determine what the most obvious keywords are.

2. If possible, find a current and major news item or stat that can be used in the lead of the press release, but is still relevant. This well increase Search Engine Optimization (SEO). You can use Yahoo! News or Google News Timeline.

3. Conduct some keyword research using Google AdWords free Keyword Tool.

4. Once you've finalized which keywords are best, make a search term grid. The grid will have three columns labeled as follows:

Search Term: This is the actual keyword or phrase that you will be using.
Searches/Month: Truth be told, the webinar didn't do a great job of explaining how one gets this number. My best guess is through Google AdWords because this is definitely not a number Google displays in a search.
Google Competition: This is basically the number of results that come up when you enter the word or phrase, which can be found to the right in the blue highlighted bar towards the top.

Once you have all this information, you can then compare the competition to the actual searches. Ultimately you want keywords that are low in competition but high in searches.

5. Write the headline using keywords as close to the beginning of the headline as possible. Keep in mind that Google will only register 65 characters (including spaces).

6. Write the first paragraph using the main keyword. Be sure to put a link at the end of the first paragraph rather than the beginning because you don't want to lose your audience. You can embed the link using anchor text, which is a keyword or phrase that is related to the link.

7. Write the body of the release making sure to use keywords throughout the body for SEO. However, these keywords or phrases should make up no more than 2-4% of the entire text.

8. Post the press release to your own company website in a Media or Press Room.

9. Syndicate using RSS. This makes it easier for Google & other sites to pull content.

10. Distribute on free wire services such as MarketWire, which will allow the release to show up on Yahoo! News or Google News.

11. Track your results. A lot of newswire services, including MarketWire, will provide you with statistics and results You can even run a search of your press release title to see if and where it's picked up.

Click here for additional information on PR 2.0.

Now go ... get your release on!!!

SenditCertified Technology Goes Global

2009-05-07T09:38:00.000-07:00

Newsflash.....

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

SenditCertified Technology Will Power All Global Secure Email Communications for HelpByte

U.S.-Based SenditCertified Has Announced a Partnership With New Zealand-Based HelpByte That Will Offer Clients Secure Email Transmission Over a Private Global Network Across Three Continents

CHARLOTTE, NC--(Marketwire - May 7, 2009) - SenditCertified (http://www.senditcertified.com/), developer of the patent-pending ePackage, has announced a partnership with HelpByte (http://www.helpbyte.com/) that will offer the New Zealand-based company a secure technology platform to power all communications for their global client roster.

HelpByte, a subsidiary of Corporate Strategies Limited, consults with managers worldwide as they position their businesses in a global economy. With assignments across three continents, HelpByte was in need of a secure form of communicating with their clients. With SenditCertified's flexibility and industry-specific capabilities, HelpByte clients can now feel confident that confidential information remains 100% secure as it travels through cyberspace.

"For over six months we looked at many different web-based security systems and none of them were completely integrated in terms of security, simplicity, and synchronicity, until we discovered the SenditCertified model," remarked Barry O'Conner, Managing Director of HelpByte. "Above all, we trust the methodology that SenditCertified has employed in establishing its encrypted, private, web pathway. We are assured that when communicating to clients across oceans and borders that the messages will only be seen by the intended executives."

HelpByte will use the SenditCertified technology platform to communicate messages, in both text and audio formats, to clients from several industries including: transportation, manufacturing, media, banking, retail, heathcare, and telecommunications.

About SenditCertified
SenditCertified (http://www.senditcertified.com/) was founded in 2006 by a group of top-industry IT professionals whose vast experience in researching and developing ground-breaking biometric technologies led to the creation of the patent-pending ePackage™. SenditCertified technology solutions are specifically catered to each market segment, and the company currently serves the Government, Security Services, Healthcare, Medical Tourism, International Business Consulting, and Financial Services industries.

Shift Happens, Web 3.0 Is Here To Stay....

2009-05-01T06:54:00.000-07:00

Today I was fortunate enough to open one of the 20 "spammish" emails I get in my inbox every morning...once in a while the headline is compelling enough that I'll actually take the time to open it.

So, if you're an agency and you think social media still isn't important, perhaps this will shed some light. And if you're a client who doesn't give props to your agency for implementing social media marketing and public relations tactics then shame on you...wake up...traditional media is dying so jump on the wagon, or watch you brand die a slow, painful death.

CLICK HERE to watch "Shift Happens." Welcome to Web 3.0.

Cal Net Technology Group Receives Microsoft Award....

2009-04-30T08:04:00.000-07:00

Newsflash....

Cal Net Technology Group Receives Microsoft Award

Article Summary:

Cal Net Technology Group Awarded Microsoft's Southern California Marketing Excellence Award — Cal Net Technology Group (www.CalNetTech.com), a Southern California-based I.T. consulting and computer support services company, has been awarded Microsoft's Southern California Marketing Excellence Award for their involvement in an exclusive technology roundtable session.

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Reaching Your Target Audience Through Video

2009-04-23T15:32:00.000-07:00

Let's start off with a few facts from the Cynopsis Digital Newsletter:

The number of American users frequenting online video destinations has climbed 339% since 2003
Time spent on video sites has shot up almost 2,000 percent over the same period
In the last year alone, unique viewers of online video grew 10%, the number of streams grew 41%, streams per user grew 27% and total minutes engaged with online video grew 71%
In the last year alone, time spent on social networking sites has surged 73%
In February, social network usage exceeded Web-based e-mail usage for the first time

If you're thinking to yourself, "So what? What does this have to do with me?," then you're missing the point. There is a humongous elephant in your office and you're ignoring it! The truth is, video has become one of the best, if not the best, tool to reach your buyers online. Despite the facts, however, many companies are only just beginning to dabble in creating videos. It takes time, and maybe some funding or convincing in order to do, but it can be done. The following are a few methods in reaching your target audience directly through video:

Posting to Video Sharing Sites: YouTube is a smash hit and can make literally anyone famous. The video doesn't have to be of great quality; you can even shoot it with your phone. All you have to do is upload it to your account and then you can begin embedding it into your blog and sharing the link with other people. Be sure to tag the video with various keywords, that way random visitors to YouTube can stumble upon your video. You might even go viral!

Vlogging: Video logs are quickly becoming more and more popular. This sometimes starts by creating an account on YouTube or Vimeo (or both) and then embedding the videos into your blog posts. The advantage with vlogs is that you can add accompanying text in the post, which will also help with Search Engine Optimization (SEO).

Vodcasting: Similar to a podcast, but with actual video not just audio. Vodcasts are typically done in a series or have a common theme and are released through either iTunes or can be subscribed to via RSS. You can do a how-to series or something fun, such as an "Around the Office" series.

Hold a Contest: You can always ask your customers to create videos for you by holding some sort of contest. Winners get a prize and you get to showcase the videos they made for you on your site. These have an increased chance of going viral because they're made by the average person rather than by the business itself.

Good luck and be creative! You'll be surprised how much fun you have with these.

New Media Public Relations

2009-04-16T19:16:00.000-07:00

New media hasn't simply changed the rules of marketing, but also of communications or public relations. Companies and businesses alike have always scrambled to buy not only their customers attention, but the media's attention as well. Well folks, things have changed. You don't need to buy anyone's attention anymore. And you definitely don't need to hold off on writing any press releases until something "news worthy" happens. You can spin practically anything into news. The following are a few things you should keep in mind when engaging in new media communications:

Bloggers Are Part of the Media

In fact, a lot of people trust bloggers more than they do traditional media outlets (i.e. newspaper, broadcast news). They do have a major influence. Therefore, it's just as important to pitch your press releases to these people as it is to actual publications.

Consumers Read Press Releases Too

By distributing your press releases through the web via various distribution services (i.e. PitchEngine, IdeaMarketers) or posting it on your company blog, your allowing for potentially anyone to pick up your article and post it on their blog or site. Therefore, you want to ensure that your press releases are written in a language that anyone, even the average consumer, can understand. You may also want to create a "Press Room" or "Media Room" and post your press release there, so that anyone interested in learning more about your company can do so.

Press Releases Are Great for Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

For those who don't know, SEO is just a fancy term for actually ranking on the first page of search engines. Press releases are one way of accomplishing this. Again, by distributing your article, posting it in your blog and/or "Press Room," you're planting seeds throughout the web that can then be picked up by search engines. The key is in writing press releases replete with keyword-rich copy. This doesn't mean repeating the same word every opportunity you get. But take a moment each time you're about to write a press release and consider what are the key phrases or words that are relevant to the release or your product/service that people might search for. Then strategically place them throughout the release in a way that makes sense and flows.

As important as it is to reach the media, the web and various social media platforms have now made it significantly easier to reach your buyers directly. This isn't to say that we no longer need the media, but that our methods in reaching people in general need to evolve.

Mutiny Pictures And Video Army Change The Direct Response Industry...For The Better!

2009-04-15T13:14:00.001-07:00

Newsflash.....

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Mutiny Pictures And Video Army Form Alliance To Take Direct Response Marketing Online

Mutiny Pictures and Video Army will offer clients a cost-effective approach to national Direct Response marketing campaigns through high-end content released and distributed online

Los Angeles, CA (April 2009)- Mutiny Pictures (www.MutinyPictures.net), a Los Angeles-based film company specializing in online branded entertainment and webisode production, has announced an exclusive partnership with Video Army (www.VideoArmy.tv). Formed specifically for the Direct Response Industry, the relationship allows clients to produce cost effective, high-end content which is then distributed across the internet for top placement on search engines and social networking sites.

“With this partnership, clients will be able to infiltrate top rankings on search engines like Google, Yahoo!, Alta Vista, and Ask.com, as well as engage online communities on social networking sites such as You Tube, Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter,” remarked Michael Pierce, CEO of Mutiny Pictures. “Additionally, it gives our clients an opportunity to create short form Direct Response spots specifically for traditional TV shows being exhibited online.”

“In the new buying environment, a great majority of consumers are finding and purchasing products online. As consumers shift buying behavior, it is absolutely necessary that brands be visible online through mediums such as video, podcasts, and other forms of new media,” added Erik Craighead, Founder of Video Army.

Over the next several months, Mutiny Pictures and Video Army will launch campaigns for companies from the medical industry (Promescent) to the fitness industry (Kettlebell Revolution).

About Mutiny Pictures
Mutiny Pictures (www.MutinyPictures.net) is a turnkey production through post-production solution for film, television, commercials and title sequence needs. The company offers a unique pairing of experienced directors and high-end visual effects and post production. Clients include J. Walter Thompson, McCann Erickson, ABC, Sony BMG and Universal Music Group. Giant Steps, the company’s strategic partner visual effects arm which specializes in 2D & 3D work, has served clients including T-Mobile, GM, Lexus, BBDO, Team One, David and Goliath, and DDB.

About Video Army
Video Army LLC (www.VideoArmy.tv) specializes in video-focused strategic internet marketing services, establishing, optimizing and managing client’s online communities to strengthen the consumer-brand relationships. Clients include Gatorade, Hollywood Tans, Christie’s Great Estates, Audiolife and Livity International.

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Generating Buzz Using Web 2.0 and New Media

2009-04-14T12:48:00.000-07:00

Let's face it: the rules have changed. The ball is no longer in your court. The consumer is in charge and it is your job to attract their attention. In other words, get the ball back in your court! But just how does one grab their audience's attention? The answer is: by generating buzz. This means getting your consumers to actually talk about you and spread your message/product/service via Word of Mouth (WOM).

WOM is the best thing that can happen to your business or company, but it has to happen almost naturally. Don't expect to pay a couple of people to go out into forums or social networks and talk about you. You will be surprised how quickly inauthentic WOM is identified and that is the last thing you want associated with your brand.

With the rise of social media and various web 2.o applications, it has become increasingly easier to spread ideas WOM and generate buzz--potentially going "viral." The following are 3 simple and popular methods of getting people to start talking about you in a positive way:

1. Create a Blog

Essentially, a corporate blog is a means for you to establish yourself as a thought leader--someone who actually understands the industry and what the consumer wants. It is not a tool for you to brag about your product/service, but as a way of developing relationships with your audience and getting them to trust you and talk about you. Click here for an example of a corporate blog.

2. Create a Video or Webinar

This is becoming an increasingly popular method with the rise of such online video platforms as YouTube. A webinar that is filled with great tips and information is a great way to generate buzz. If people like your ideas then they will share your video, which will be associated with your brand and can potentially lead to sales or lifelong customers. The same can be said about videos, except they can be slightly trickier. The trick is to actually remain authentic, while creating a video that is in line with your message but doesn't come off as an advertisement or commercial. Click here for examples of a few marketing webinars.

3. Create a Free E-Book

People love getting free things; even if it's a simple PDF file filled with valuable information. It means they don't have to go to the bookstore and pay up to $20 or more for a book. Plus, people expect free information on the Internet. This means not even asking them for an email address. Just give them what they want with a few clicks. In doing so, you are sending the message that your company isn't simply out to milk your customers for what they're worth, but actually care about providing them with useful resources--and free ones at that! Click here for an example of an e-book.

All 3 of these are built on one simple idea: building trust by providing free information. However, the most important criteria in anything you do aimed towards generating buzz is authenticity.

Project Runway Alum Vincent Libretti Will Launch Webisode Series....

2009-04-01T07:10:00.001-07:00

Newsflash....

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Mutiny Pictures and Fashion Designer Vincent Libretti Go Off-Runway with Branded Content Webisode Series

Los Angeles-based film company Mutiny Pictures will partner with fashion designer and Project Runway alum Vincent Libretti for groundbreaking branded entertainment series

Los Angeles, CA (April 2009)- Mutiny Pictures (http://www.mutinypictures.net/), a Los Angeles-based film company specializing in online branded entertainment and webisode production, has announced a partnership with Project Runway alum Vincent Libretti. The partnership places Libretti front and center giving him creative input and freedom on the content while Mutiny Pictures focuses on production and sponsorship opportunities with major brands.

“This project (working title “Project Vincent”) represents the perfect branded entertainment opportunity in a credible, new media style” remarked Michael Pierce, CEO & Founder of Mutiny Pictures. “Fashionistas and fans across the globe know the Vincent Libretti name, but not necessarily the full scope of his personality, passion points and ultimately what drives him. Project Vincent will showcase a variety of people and will include celebs as well as everyday people.”

Added Libretti: “The beauty of working with non-traditional mediums such as the internet is that it provides a more natural and less-contrived environment for branded entertainment. Audiences are going to see me, passionate and raw, without creative restrictions and connecting in a way that traditional broadcast TV doesn’t allow. I am looking forward to working with companies that share my passion for fashion and overall vision for the project.”

“Besides letting ‘Vincent be Vincent’ on the show, our distribution channels give brands the ability to place their product within Project Vincent as well as have ads exhibited in a traditional spot format that millions of people can view online,” note Pierce. Unlike a TIVO system, the spots can’t be skipped, which gives sponsors flexibility in how they want their product featured. Project Vincent is going to capitalize on the reach of the internet as a true advertising channel.”
The webisode series is set to begin filming early Summer 2009 with a Fall 2009 release date.
*Interviews with Vincent Libretti and Michael Pierce, Mutiny Pictures, available upon request.

About Mutiny Pictures
Mutiny Pictures (http://www.mutinypictures.net/) is a turnkey production through post-production solution for film, television, commercials and title sequence needs. The company offers a unique pairing of experienced directors and high-end visual effects and post production. Clients include J. Walter Thompson, McCann Erickson, ABC, Sony BMG and Universal Music Group. Giant Steps, the company’s strategic partner visual effects arm, specializes in 2D & 3D work has served clients including T-Mobile, GM, Lexus, BBDO, Team One, David and Goliath, and DDB.

About Vincent Libretti
Exceptionally credited from his recent stint on Bravo's hit series Project Runway, Vincent Libretti is a designer set apart by charisma, apparent in each one of his innovative designs. Prior to Project Runway, Libretti worked with fashion icons such as Halston and Tracy Mills. Libretti has also been featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show, Good Morning America, VH1, MSN & EW and is featured in the upcoming Sasha Baron Cohen film “Bruno”.

Mary Jurek Gives Brides Another Reason To "Tie The Knot"

2009-03-19T07:16:00.000-07:00

Newsflash.....

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Mary Jurek Design Redefines “Tying The Knot” For 2009 Wedding Season

Los Angeles-based Mary Jurek design announces stainless steel Helyx Collection designed with brides-to-be and wedding gift givers in mind

Los Angeles, CA (March 19, 2009)- Los Angeles-based tableware and luxury home décor company Mary Jurek Design, Inc. (www.MaryJurekDesignInc.com) announces the unique Helyx Collection just in time for the upcoming wedding season. Each modern design is sleek yet classic, and shares a common knot which signifies the idea of union.

All pieces from the collection are sentimental yet functional, and offer sparkling luxury at reasonable price points during a time when budgets are tight. Among the most popular wedding selections are the Helyx Chopsticks for the sushi loving couple, the Helyx Snack Set that dresses up any gathering, and the Helyx Wedding Set which can be used on that special day to cut and serve wedding cake.

“The Wedding Day is a wonderful, joyous occasion for everyone. It is a celebration of life for families and friends to witness the mutual commitment of two people uniting together in a future life,” remarked designer Mary Jurek. “I really wanted to exude that feeling of beauty and hope with my Helyx Collection.”

As with all designs created by Mary Jurek, the Helyx Collection is organic, hand-made and blessedly dishwasher-safe. The company uses only the highest quality stainless steel so the pieces can be enjoyed by many happy generations to come.

About Mary Jurek Design, Inc.

Mary Jurek Design, Inc. is a Los Angeles-based luxury goods company that creates and distributes fine tableware and home design products to retail stores throughout the United States. Founded in 1998 by award winning jewelry and watch artisan Mary Jurek, the company juxtaposes hand-hammered stainless steel with a soft, organic flare, creating an “old world meets modern day” style that appeals to luxury lifestyle enthusiasts everywhere.

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Learn How To Go Organic On A Budget....

2009-03-11T08:25:00.000-07:00

Newsflash....

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Organics4u.me Educates Consumers on How To Go Organic On A Budget

Currently in public beta, user friendly website Organics4u.me gives budget conscious consumers from around the globe the inside scoop on living an organic lifestyle

Los Angeles, CA (March 2009) – Organics4u.me (http://www.organics4u.me/), a user friendly multi-media website founded by a group of entrepreneurs and marketing professionals based in Los Angeles, California (collectively known as Organix), will offer consumers something much needed during the economic downturn: a resource for making healthy choices without spending loads of cash.

The website, which boasts content ranging from research based articles and forums to daily polls and a fun, quirky blog (the GOOBlog), fills a much needed void in the realm of organic living through its laid-back, consumer friendly approach to a highly taboo topic.

“The idea for Organics4u.me arose from a need we identified in the market, as well as a topic that was interesting to the entire group,” remarked Michael Steffes, Organix co-founder and a professional website designer and blogger by trade. “This website is specifically geared towards people who think that living organically is synonymous with deep pockets and Hollywood celebs.”

“What people often fail to realize is that living organically generally means one thing: less consumption,” added Jennifer Belton, Organix co-founder and marketing professional. “As a consumer driven society we tend to overdo everything from eating to building to exercising. The key to healthy, organic living is the opposite of that mentality. It’s a complete paradigm shift, and we offer those insights with Organics4u.me.”

Currently in public beta, Organics4u.me (www.Organics4u.me) is set to officially launch in early summer 2009 with increased content including videos, how-to guides, expert interviews, and product reviews.

About Organics4u.me
Organics4u.me is a website that offers consumers ideas and insights for “How To Go Organic on a Budget (How To GOOB™).” The multi-media platform was created and developed with the budget conscious consumer in mind. The mission of the site is to provide relevant information in an educational and entertaining manner while giving helpful tips and hints for incorporating cost-effective, practical, organic lifestyle choices.

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It's All About The Numbers

2009-03-05T09:01:00.000-08:00

Audiolife Backs Up Hype With Quantitative Data

One of the most difficult things about the marketing profession is the lack of measureable ROI. It's the proverbial elephant in the room at every first-time meeting with a potential client: you're quoting them a number, and they're thinking "when the heck am I going to see that money back in my pocket?"

Before the dawn of new media, Marketing and PR pros offered a few different measurements: "impressions" through advertising, sponosorships, and events; press placement (print, broadcast); and eventually, sales. However, with today's online mediums and services like Google Analytics (which tracks site traffic, demographics, etc...) it becomes much easier to track which efforts are working and which aren't.

So if we now have the advantage of being able to track what translates to media and consumers and what doesn't, it then becomes our obligation to focus on the content of what our clients are pushing. While human interest stories and brand launches always make exciting fodder for online and offline journalists alike, nothing speaks louder than good ol' quantitative data. Numbers, people, numbers. Although it may seem boring, the fact of the matter is that consumers, analysts, and media alike can draw much clearer conclusions about your client's brand if they have some solid data.

A good example of my point: a CD Report recently released by my client, Audiolife. The overarching goal here is to outline specifically why their web platform is THE BEST option for artists. Take a look: TAKE ME TO THE CD REPORT

Cal Net Technology Group Busts Top 3 Myths

2009-03-04T08:21:00.000-08:00

Newsflash....

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Cal Net Technology Group Busts Top 3 Myths About IT Support In Recession 2.0

Southern California-based Cal Net Technology Group, a computer support and IT consulting firm, gives business owners 3 reasons to re-think their IT strategy during the economic downturn

Los Angeles, CA (March 2009) – Cal Net Technology Group, a Southern California -based computer support and I.T. consulting firm that offers affordable and dependable services to businesses throughout Southern California, wants business owners, CFOs, office managers, and controllers to understand the advantages of engaging external computer support and I.T. consulting during the recession.

Zack Schuler, President & CEO of Cal Net Technology Group and whose business survived during the dot-com crash, debunks what he views as the Top 3 Myths about I.T. during economic downturns:

Myth 1: Playing the “freeze” game is wise for both CapEx and OpEx.

Schuler says: “If investments in I.T. systems are frozen, this doesn’t mean everything should remain stagnant. I recommend investing in ‘people infrastructure’ which may mean replacing or reducing headcount. I.T. support firms play a huge role in assessing real I.T. needs during downturns, and can provide solutions for a fraction of the cost.

Myth 2: Internal I.T. staff should be a “jack of all trades.”

Schuler says: “Untrue! This approach to I.T. can often lead to disastrous consequences. When budgets are tight companies often opt to hire staff that can fix little bits of everything, but fail to understand deep, specific needs. Consultants can often be hired for a fraction of the cost with expertise in your area of need.”

Myth 3: We don’t need I.T to be competitive.

Schuler says: “If there is any time to beat your competition, it is RIGHT NOW. Far too often, companies view I.T. as ‘overhead’ as opposed to ‘competitive advantage.’ Most companies have the hardware and software in place to compete, but lack the strategic component on how to leverage what they’ve got. Engaging experts to craft I.T. strategies should be the focus.”

About Cal Net Technology Group
Founded in 1995, Cal Net Technology Group provides Southern California’s businesses with technology solutions expertise ranging from outsourced I.T. services to ongoing support and consultation. Their signature service, TECManage, is designed to provide a cost-effective option for companies who need the services of full-time I.T personnel.

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Journalist Versus Hobbyist: 5 Criteria For New Media

2009-02-23T07:10:00.000-08:00

What Makes a Pub Worth Shelling Out Free Products, Services, or VIP Passes?
By: Rebekah Iliff, Founder, Smart Girls Consulting

Last week, I had the express pleasure of working for PROJECT in Las Vegas--probably the biggest fashion trade show of the year where buyers from all over the world coming to swoon over hot brands and celebrity designers.

Think Tara Reid (she was on my flight by the way, looking a little rough but she's sweet so....) and Phillip Bloch (he literally went from PROJECT to the Oscar red carpet in less than 48 hours...and his stuff is AMAZING!), and many others from brands like NAU, Rock & Republic, and Citizens of Humanity.

Anyway, the point is, I was working at the press check-in where we had everyone from the editor of Italian Vogue to the editor of Busted.com passing through for their free pass (the show boasts a steep $200 entrance fee). What is Busted.com you ask? Exactly.

So with all this new media stuff, and as established print publications lose readership by the millisecond, as publicists we must also be discretionary about who we deem legit from a PR standpoint.

If Candy Cosgrove from SlutsAndMuts.com (I made that up) wants to review a client's product on her e-zine or blog....should we shell out $100 worth of product? What if she has a readership of 10,000/day? What if her e-newsletter hits 30,000 a month in our target demo? How on earth do we navigate?

Here are 5 questions you should ask when an "editor" of a never before heard of e-pub or new media outlet wants something for free in exchange for a review or press placement.

1. Is the website supported by ads? 99% of the time this is a good sign.

2. What is your newsletter or RSS readership? Anywhere above 1500/month is decent.

3. How many unique visitors do you get a month? Anywhere above 2500/month and they're doing ok.

4. Is the writing professional, timely, and objective? The answer should be YES.

5. Does the website or blog design look professional? The answer should be YES.

Now I'm not saying that anyone who does not meet this criteria is not worth one ioda of your time...but what I AM saying is that they don't deserve much of anything for free...at least not yet.

By the way, perhaps THE BEST moment of the week: when the "editor" (and I use that term loosely) of TheHardCoreSource.com wanted a press pass to review and write about next season's fashion. Last time I checked, porn stars aren't usually inclined to wear clothes. Hmmm....

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Video Army Announces "Green" Viral Marketing Campaign For HYDB

2009-02-10T09:28:00.000-08:00

Newsflash....

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Video Army Will Generate Worldwide Online Brand Awareness For Hydrogen Hybrid Fuel Cell Corp. Using Viral Media Marketing Campaign

Los Angeles, CA (February 10, 2009) – Video Army LLC (www.VideoArmy.tv), a Los Angeles-based new media agency, has announced that Hydrogen Hybrid Fuel Cell Corp, (http://www.hydbusa.com/ , HYDB) will enlist their services to generate worldwide brand awareness through a viral video campaign. HYDB’s campaign message will highlight the company’s “green solutions” for increasing miles per gallon while reducing emissions and boosting horsepower at the same time.

The video campaign, set to launch in mid-February, will be distributed to hundreds of video sharing and social media websites, such as Youtube and Facebook. Video Army boasts the most advanced online video syndication and social media strategies ever developed, with the ability to rapidly reach a monthly audience of 15 million within the automotive, environmental, and investor communities across the globe.

"We are extremely excited to have the opportunity to work with Ken Owen and Hydrogen Hybrid Fuel Cell Corp." remarked Video Army Co-Founder, Reed Lucas.
Ken Owen, CEO of Hydrogen Hybrid Fuel Cell Corp commented, "Our goal with this campaign is to generate massive brand awareness on a global scale within a very short period of time. We are confident in our choice to enlist Video Army because they truly understand emerging media trends and what it takes to make something appeal to widespread, online audiences.”
The application of Video Army's new media marketing services will be used to:

Attract new customers, distributors, and investors for HYDB technology

Place HYDB content in related newsgroups, forums, and blogs

Generate website traffic from proactive environmental groups

Attract after-market performance modification consumers

Establish a cohesive platform for Search Engine Reputation Management (SERM)

Create synthesized grassroots promotional campaign

About Video Army LLC
Video Army LLC (http://www.videoarmy.tv/) launched in 2007 as an eco-friendly advertising method for local businesses in the Venice Beach area. Today, Video Army LLC has served over 100 companies both locally and nationally, securing new online territory for their brand while establishing their presence online.
Video Army recently marketed Steve Guttenberg, being caught by the paparazzi running “naked” through Central Park. Within five days, the video was the 31st most viewed video on YouTube and had been picked up by broadcast networks such as VH1.

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Mary Jurek Teams Up For Perfect Valentine's Day Gift....

2009-02-09T07:45:00.000-08:00

Newsflash....

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Designer Mary Jurek Teams Up With Luxury Gift Expert And Artisan Chocolatier To Create A Valentine’s Offering That Will “Steel Her Heart”

Los Angeles, CA (February 9, 2009)- Los Angeles-based stainless steel tableware and luxury home décor designer Mary Jurek, Founder of Mary Jurek Design, Inc. (http://www.blogger.com/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/Low/Content.IE5/I3ARI8BZ/www.MaryJurekDesignInc.com) has joined forces with Gift Expert Diana Martin and Chocolatier Diana Phillips to create an unforgettable Valentine’s Day gift. Luxury on a budget was at the forefront of their minds and the vision was to imbibe love and thoughtfulness while appreciating that money is tight.

Jurek understands that affordability is key: “This year the focus is going to be more about the experience than the gift itself. Even Joe Millionaire is holding onto his wallet. However, this doesn’t mean that gift buying is obsolete. Instead, it’s about finding creative ways to show your softer side.”

“I have a great appreciation for passionate, quality-driven and creative artists. Mary Jurek’s ‘Amore Heart Tray’ is a perfect, yet simple compliment to my aphrodisiac chocolates, bringing the classic art of food and form into the home,” said Phillips.

Gifting expert Diana Martin added: “Pairing these two artisans for a one-of-a-kind Valentine’s Day gift is part of what makes my job so enjoyable and unique. I have the pleasure of identifying artists and then beautifully packaging and re-positioning them to the savvy consumer.”

Gift-buyers can purchase the item (Retail: $98.50) by visiting this direct link: http://tinyurl.com/vdayloveheart.

Mary Jurek’s Valentine’s Tip: Want some extra points? After she opens her gift, and presumably puts the chocolates away for later, serve her dinner on the stainless steel, engraveable, “Amore Heart Tray,” which can then be used as a vanity tray or home décor item. She will be blown away by your ingenuity and think about you fondly every time she sees it.

*Gift photos available upon request.

About Mary Jurek Design, Inc.
Mary Jurek Design, Inc. (http://www.blogger.com/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/Low/B2B%20BOUTIQUE/www.maryjurekdesigninc.com) is a Los Angeles-based luxury goods company that creates and distributes fine tableware and home design products to retail stores throughout the United States. Founded in 1998 by award winning jewelry and watch artisan Mary Jurek, the company juxtaposes hand-hammered stainless steel with a soft, organic flare, creating an “old world meets modern day” style that appeals to luxury lifestyle enthusiasts everywhere.

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Is FREE The New Black?

2009-02-06T08:26:00.000-08:00

This morning my father, an avid reader of the Wall Street Journal (note: online version) forwarded me this article by one of my favorite authors, Chris Anderson. His book, "The Longtail," single-handedly changed my perspective on business, and I anticipate his next endeavor, "Free," will do more of the same.

As the economy continues to sit squarely in the crapper, while Congress can't tell their blankety blank from a hole in the ground, the idea of creating value for consumers through "giving it all away" seems to be the order of the day. Cheap is good. Free is better. But what's the catch.

Read Anderson's article and perhaps you too will be enlightened. Big smooch Chris. Love you, love your show.

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Audiolife Will Empower Musicians Worldwide....

2009-02-05T17:14:00.000-08:00

Newsflash....

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Audiolife Will Offer Artists Worldwide A Streamlined Solution For Selling Music Online

Audiolife, an Artist Services Company headquartered in Los Angeles, California, has announced an updated platform that will allow artists worldwide to sell and distribute music to fans across the globe

Los Angeles, CA (February 5, 2009) – Audiolife (http://www.audiolife.com/), the Los Angeles-based Artist Services Company responsible for the development of a new media web-platform specifically designed for indie artists to sell music online and on-demand to fans, is set to “go worldwide” just one week after their public beta launch. The company announced today that beginning Monday, February 9th, 2009, artists across the globe will be able to sell music online directly to their fans anywhere in the world.

“The response from our public beta launch was overwhelming,” remarked Audiolife Founder and CEO, Brandon Hance. “Within 24 hours we had over 300 new artists sign-up and begin using our tools for creating physical and digital merchandise. The majority of those have already started selling music and merchandise directly to fans.”

Audiolife’s international platform will allow artists to:

• Create their own virtual store with an unlimited number of downloads, ringtones, CDs and merchandise items.
• Sell directly to fans on any website, blog or social network on the web.
• Have one central place to design custom products and manage all e-commerce.
• Easily buy high quality, affordable CDs and merchandise with no minimums for live shows and events.
• Focus on making music while Audiolife handles all on-demand manufacturing, distribution, customer service and accounting.

“We will continue to push forward and implement new features that will serve the artist and their fans,” added Hance. “Our team has been working day and night since the launch responding to the demands of artists from the U.S. to Canada and the U.K., and we are confident that adding international selling and distribution capabilities is the next logical step toward fulfilling our promise of keeping the artist top of mind: this new feature will give artists everywhere the opportunity to make money with no up-fronts or inventory required.”

About Audiolife
Audiolife (www.Audiolife.com), a division of Inhance Media, is an Artist Services Company founded in 2005 by USC graduates Brandon Hance, Aaron Wiener, and Nishit Rathod. Based in Los Angeles, California, the company is currently in public beta and continues their dedication to empowering artists through new technology solutions.

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Audiolife Lets Loose...Public Beta Launch Today!

2009-01-28T06:47:00.000-08:00

Braggadocio Of The Day
Client: Audiolife
URL: http://www.audiolife.com/
Status: Public Beta Launch Today

Sometimes clients are ok, sometimes clients are good, sometimes clients are bleepin' amazing. Audiolife is the latter. It's genius, it's much-needed, and these people will be gracing the cover of Rolling Stone or Entrepreneur before you can say "super-cala-fragilistic-expi-alidocious."

Take a read wouldga.....

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Audiolife Announces Public Beta Launch: Indie Artists And Music Industry Pros Hail New On-Demand Technology As The Future Of Promoting And Selling Music and Merchandise Online

Los Angeles, CA (January 28, 2009) – As the economy continues to spiral downward, and cost efficiency takes center stage with every industry from finance to fashion, the young entrepreneurs behind Audiolife could not have chosen a better climate to launch their groundbreaking technology and web-platform specifically designed to empower artists to make money. Not only does the solution fill a long-standing void in the music industry, but it also provides artists the opportunity to design, promote and sell their music and merchandise online with no up-front costs or physical inventory.

“A lot of companies come through my office trying to sell me on their latest distribution technology and websites,” remarked Kevin Lyman, President of 4Fini Inc. and Founder of the Vans Warped Tour. “But Audiolife clearly offers the best, most comprehensive solution for unsigned artists and bands that need a means to monetize and distribute their music and merchandise.”

The Audiolife platform allows artists to:

Create their own virtual store with an unlimited number of downloads, ringtones, CDs and merchandise items.

Sell directly to fans on any website, blog or social network on the web.

Have one central place to design custom products and manage all e-commerce.

Easily buy high quality, affordable CDs and merchandise with no minimums for live shows and events.

Focus on making music while Audiolife handles all on-demand manufacturing, distribution, customer service and accounting.

“Audiolife was built around the specific needs of artists,” remarked Brandon Hance, Founder and CEO of Audiolife. “We have spent over three years identifying the challenges artists have when trying to build their careers, and we have created a solution that integrates all of their needs into a single website that completely eliminates the need for start-up capital. Our goal is to create a middle class in the music industry by empowering artists and record labels with the necessary tools to make money in the new music business.”

After using Audiolife’s platform during private beta, Indie Band The Harm noted: "I don't know why it took so long for music companies to leverage the internet. Before, it was such a hassle directing my fans to several different companies to purchase all our music and merchandise. Now we only go through Audiolife – and it's so easy to use and cost-efficient, for both our band and our fans! Glad to see there's finally a company catching on."

About Audiolife
Audiolife, a division of Inhance Media, is an Artist Services Company founded in 2005 by USC graduates Brandon Hance, Aaron Wiener, and Nishit Rathod. Based in Los Angeles, California, the company is currently in public beta and continues their dedication to empowering artists through new technology solutions.

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Top 10 Historical Hackers

2009-01-27T11:15:00.000-08:00

Braggadocio of the Day
Client: SenditCertified
URL: http://www.SenditCertified.com
Status: Currently in beta

From political icons to celeb party girls, hacking is one of those pesky universals that is somewhat inevitable no matter how much clout you have. Both fun and factual, here are SenditCertified's Top 10...

Historical Hackers: SenditCertified’s Top Ten Famous And Infamous
By Jim Robbins

With today’s economy, identity theft and computer hacking rates are skyrocketing. Tom Griffin of Griffin Protection Group has said; "During every economic downturn, criminal activity increases -- that's historical.” While companies often do their best to protect the consumer, the fact remains that our personal information flowing over the Internet is less than safe. In these financially challenging times, none of us can afford cyber crime.

SenditCertified takes a look at some of the most famous computer crimes as a reminder of why a culture of trusting Internet users should beware:

10. Famous Virus
David Smith was responsible for the Melissa Virus in 1999. This virus spread to approximately 1.2 million computers that resulted in $80 million in financial losses to businesses throughout the United States and Europe. After being convicted of criminal computer hacking and sentenced to forty years in prison, Mr. Smith was released after 20 months when he agreed to go undercover for the FBI.

9. Twitter Tweaked
Britney Spears discussing her nether region.
Bill O’Reilly cleaning out his closet.
Rick Sanchez of CNN announcing his drug of choice.
Obama asking for opinions in exchange for gas.

These negative and identity-stealing posts are embarrassing, irritating and grossly inappropriate.

8. The Homeless Hacker
Adrian Lamo used Internet connections at Kinko's, coffee shops and libraries to hack major organizations (Microsoft, Bank of America, Cingular and The New York Times), to name a few. He got his fun finding flaws in their security and then letting them know. Talk about a rude awakening!

7. Sarah Palin Invasion
Our Republican Vice Presidential candidate’s personal Yahoo! email account was hacked and completely invaded by the “Anonymous Group”. Luckily, Mrs. Palin did not have any juicy tidbits to be unjustly exposed in this account.

6. The Internet’s Initial Worm
The son of former National Security Agency scientist Robert Morris and his namesake, Robert Tappan Morris, was the creator of the infamous Morris Worm, the first computer worm to attack the Internet. He wrote the code for the worm as a student at Cornell. Insisting he invented the worm to find out how large the Internet was the worm replicated itself endlessly, causing thousands of computers to become useless. Mr. Morris spent three years on probation and is currently a tenured professor at MIT.

5. Paris Hilton Hacked
The party queen’s sidekick was hacked in 2005 by Nicolas Jacobsen, who plead guilty this and many other hacking offenses. Before he was brought to justice, Mr. Jacobsen successfully posted all of Ms. Hilton’s phone contents including her entire phonebook and photos which led to a fan frenzy and many a prank phone to call to her celebrity friends. Now, that’s not hot.

4. Lindsay Lohan’s Luck (or lack thereof)
In 2007, Ms. Lohan’s Gmail, Blackberry and MySpace accounts were invaded. Among the humiliating results were several private conversations regarding love triangles and lusty trysts made public.

3. The Hannibal Lector of Computer Crime
Kevin Poulsen most famously hacked into an LA radio’s phone lines which won him a new Porsche. He also hacked into a federal investigation database in order to learn top-secret wiretap information. When his photo was posted on the television show Unsolved Mysteries, phone lines for the program crashed (coincidence not likely). After serving five years in prison he became a Senior Editor for Wired News.

2. Russian Ruse
A brilliant hacker from Russia who goes by the name A-Z is the creator of a program called ZeuS. This program’s specialty is in assisting cybergangs to steal citizen’s identities in order to execute web crime on a mass level. In 2007, a group of German hackers stole 6 million dollars from banks in Spain, Italy, United Kingdom and United States with the help of ZeuS, according to SecureWorks in Atlanta.

1. The Pentagon is Penetrated
In 2007, the computer system that serves over 1,500 Pentagon employees including Secretary of Defense, Robert Gates, was attacked. The damage was so overwhelming they were forced to go offline for a full week until the attacks finally ceased. After extensive investigation the Department Of Defense accused the People’s Liberation Army of China for the invasion.

The moral of this story? Hacking is inevitable, and if you take the risk of using public communication and unprotected systems your own experience may land on our next Top Ten.

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SenditCertified Goes To Abu Dhabi

2009-01-22T07:51:00.000-08:00

Newsflash....

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

U.S.-Based SenditCertified Announces Plans To Bring First-Ever, Fully Certified Secure Communication Platform To Growing Middle East North Africa Market

Charlotte, North Carolina (January 2009) – SenditCertified™ (http://www.blogger.com/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/Low/Content.IE5/7CJIXG9E/www.senditcertified.com), a division of BioConfirm, LLC, will meet with several high-level UAE executives and government officials this week in Abu Dhabi to discuss the utilization of their patent-pending ePackage™: the first-ever, fully-certified secure communication platform for exchanging sensitive information, worldwide.

The meeting, initiated by SenditCertified’s Chief Security Officer and international liaison, Rick Cantwell, sets the stage for an official private beta trial. During the trial, UAE, government and business officials will utilize the patent-pending technology platform for secure communication within government offices and international business representatives in their global transactions.

“SenditCertified’s ultra secure, simple-to-use communication system for sending, receiving and storing sensitive information will be a benefit both here and abroad,” remarked Cantwell. “This trial will be an important step towards understanding the Middle East North Africa (MENA) market, and will provide us with key data for all future international initiatives.”
During the private beta trial, representatives from the UAE will have access to the following SenditCertified™ features:

· Patent-pending ePackage™
· Full encryption during transmission
· Audio and written messages
· Attached files of virtually any size
· Private data vault storage
· Fingerprint identity verification
“We are excited for this opportunity, and truly look forward to gathering feedback from the world’s fastest growing market, added Cantwell.”

About SenditCertified™
SenditCertified™ (http://www.blogger.com/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/Low/Content.IE5/7CJIXG9E/www.senditcertified.com) is a division of BioConfirm, LLC. The company was formed in 2006 by a group of top-industry IT professionals whose vast experience in researching and developing ground-breaking biometric technologies led to the creation of the patent-pending ePackage™. SenditCertified.com, currently in private beta, is set to launch in early 2009.

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Social Media And Barack Obama

2009-01-20T08:34:00.000-08:00

Tradition will meet technology at Barack Obama’s inauguration

Today, it's worth noting how social media played a huge role in this historic and monumental shift in American history.

READ, READ, READ: Click here

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Mary Jurek Design Launches Spring Collection....

2009-01-19T18:41:00.000-08:00

News Flash....

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

MARY JUREK DESIGN LAUNCHES ORION BUFFALO HORN COLLECTION DURING SEMI-ANNUAL LUXURY GIFT SHOW TOUR

Los Angeles-based luxury goods company Mary Jurek Design, Inc. will launch rustic yet elegant collection during semi-annual gift show touring from Atlanta to San Francisco

Los Angeles, CA (January 14, 2009)- In preparation for Spring 2009, Mary Jurek Design, Inc. (http://www.maryjurekdesigninc.com/) puts a twist on luxury with the launch of the Orion Buffalo Horn Collection. With this product line Founder and Designer Mary Jurek combines durability with modern chic through the use of handcrafted 18/8 stainless steel and hand-carved ebony-colored buffalo horn.

“Buffalo Horn is a material I have wanted to incorporate into my collection for quite some time and the right moment is now,” remarked Jurek. “Any new material is carefully selected and the fit must be right with stainless steel because I prefer to keep things extremely organic and simple. Through the stark contrast of the two materials I believe we have created a dynamic mix yet upholding the integrity of the stainless steel intact.”

Before the collection reaches customers vis-à-vis Mary Jurek Design retailers (Neiman Marcus, Halls of Kansas City, Geary’s of Beverly Hills, and Table Art, to name a few), Orion Buffalo Horn will make appearances during luxury goods gift shows throughout the country:

Atlanta Gift Show, January 6-14: Lyle & Associates, Suite 823, Americas Mart

LA Gift Show, January 13 -19: Debi Wise & Associates, Suite 803, LA Mart

Dallas Gift Show, January 14-20: Mike Flynn & Associates, Suite 2200, Dallas Trade Mart

San Francisco Gift Show, February 7-10: Morgan & Co, Suite 534, 888 Brannan Street

About Mary Jurek Design, Inc.
Mary Jurek Design, Inc. (http://www.blogger.com/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/Low/B2B%20BOUTIQUE/www.maryjurekdesigninc.com) is a Los Angeles-based luxury goods company that creates and distributes fine tableware and home design products to retail stores throughout the United States. Founded in 1998 by award winning jewelry and watch artisan Mary Jurek, the company juxtaposes hand-hammered stainless steel with a soft, organic flare, creating an “old world meets modern day” style that appeals to luxury lifestyle enthusiasts everywhere.

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Writers: How To Pitch Editors

2009-01-15T11:37:00.001-08:00

Writers: How to Pitch Your Stories to an Editor
Ready to see your name printed in big bold serifs in the glossies? Follow this real-life advice from a journalist who has riden the lows of rejection and enjoyed the heights of acceptance.
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/55310/writers_how_to_pitch_your_stories_to.html

Top 10 For Online Marketing Success in 2009

2009-01-13T20:25:00.000-08:00

Expert Advice Of The Week
Intro: Rebekah Iliff

One of my favorite resources for all things marketing, Marketing Profs, posted this article today by a very brilliant man...and the reason he's so brill? Just read #4.

It gives validity to my philosophy behind the financial meltdown: when people quit producing meaningful information, quality products, and tangible assets because they become to0 overloaded with uneccesary and inexplicable crap, the end is near.

His advice is priceless....and spot on with the next wave of marketing.....if you don't take this online stuff seriously you'll be singing the blues "like it's 1999."

Top 10 for Online Marketing Success in 2009
by Aaron Kahlow
Published on January 13, 2009

Still uncertain how to start your online-marketing efforts this year? Here's some practical guidance that will soon have you on your way to success.

10. Borrow and Share
Share your content, borrow others'. This is a really simple concept, but due to decades of a winner-take-all, competitive scarcity-model mentality, it's a hard philosophy for most marketers to embrace.

All of us have some content that's worth getting out, so we should share it with anyone willing to post it on their site. In the same vein, we should borrow content from others who have supporting information that will enhance the experience of our Web-site customers.

Even those whose business is information—publishers—can't cover all things at all times and need to share. If The New York Times is willing to aggregate and share content from other publications, then it should be possible for the rest of us to do the same.

Recommendation: Find the top two or three publishers/bloggers/reporters who cover your industry and grab an RSS feed. Insert it in your news section of your Web site. This may not produce any results, but it will help you get used to—and begin to understand the value of—the shared-content concept.

9. User-Generated Content as a Strategy
With folks out of work and looking for ways to engage, what better time to encourage participation? You might be surprised to find how many of your customers are more than happy to give insight on their experience with a product, service, or solution that you offer. So why not encourage them to share?

Amazon, TripAdvisor, Yelp, and many more sites have become brand leaders over much more established brands simply by embracing a user-generated-content strategy. Now, it's your turn.
Recommendation: Pick a product, service, or area of interest on your site and, with the help of a 30-day trial from one of the many ratings/reviews software vendors, start getting content from your customers. With no additional tech support or manpower hours on your end, you will have expanded your online offerings.

8. Cost-Conscious Search
Recently I heard the folks at Hitwise, a company that monitors online trends, including search (like Nielsen for TV), mention how search patterns predicted the downturn in our economy: low-cost keyword search phrases had a huge spike starting in August.

With Americans looking for savings above all else, your site can tap into budget-conscious searches by inserting low-cost phrases like "best deal," "highly discounted," or "lowest price available." Apply this both to your paid search ads and to your search engine optimization efforts in the copy on your site, and the cost-conscious shopper will find you on the major search engines. Everyone is looking for a deal, so give it to them.

Recommendation: Take your top 15 keyword phrases and build a 30-day mini-campaign for your paid search program around low-cost descriptors. At the end of that 30-day period, evaluate what your CTR is compared with what it was without those low-cost phrases.

7. Email With Purpose
Stop the e-newsletter and start serving the customer. So many of us send our monthly e-newsletter with the fierce discipline of an Olympic athlete. We are dead set on getting that email out at 10 AM on the second Tuesday of every month, and will drop everything to make sure it gets out. But are our customers really waiting with baited breath for this generic e-newsletter to hit their inboxes? Are there going to be a flood of calls to customer service if at 10:01 AM the email has not arrived? Of course not. So why is it such a priority?

Instead of clinging to the e-newsletter habit, what about launching a timely, well-segmented email campaign that has relevant information that will be of the most interest to your customer base?

The day that an e-newsletter becomes the most important tool in your arsenal is the day you become a publisher. Stop spending your time on that low-impact e-newsletter and start spending it on relevancy and segmentation.

Recommendation: In your next e-newsletter, ask your customers what they are interested in, what they'd like to hear more about, and how often... then segment audiences and build campaigns around this information.

6. Analytics for Real
We all have Web analytic tools to measure what is happening on our Web site. And though many of us need to purchase a better software system for more relevant analysis, all of us need to improve what, how, and why we measure what we measure. Therefore, there is no better time than now to improve how we measure online success as it relates to company sales, cost savings, and ROI. And the great thing is that the hard costs are negligible: it's the soft cost of your time that is the real issue, making the analytics conversation a much easier one to have with the powers that be.

Retrench, re-evaluate and read best-practices to build a key performance indicator plan that will help you determine metrics of value to your business and eliminate those that are have little to no value.

Recommendation: Reflect on the major company and departmental goals for the year, then ask yourself, "How can I use my Web metrics to show how our site is improving those goals for the organization?"

5. Plunge Head-First Into Social Networking
Too many of us are still merely dipping our toes into the world of social networking. This time last year, about the same topic I wrote that there is no time for you to wait. This year, the need to jump in is even more pronounced.

Interest groups are being formed, new brand leaders are being established, and thought leaders are constantly emerging in these new social communities. If you are not out there making mistakes, learning the protocol, and getting a feel for how your brand and personal connection play in the bigger business cycle, you will quickly find yourself isolated and on the outside looking in.

How are you going to use Facebook, LinkedIn, and other essential social media to establish brand credibility and your place in that new marketplace?

Recommendation: Build a group in LinkedIn and Facebook and start the invitation process. And if you don't have profile set up in either, start there and begin to get a feel for the what it's like to be a participant in the community.

4. Stop Twittering, Start Working
Twitter has some very useful applications, but 90% of the information on the site has little to no importance to any of us. Unless you have a plan to monetize, stop wasting your time and start doing something productive. Just because you have 2,000 followers, does not mean anyone really cares what you are doing at 7AM Saturday morning!

Recommendation: Stop for 30 days and see if the sky comes crashing down.

3. Budget for Customers
One of the most compelling opportunities during times of economic uncertainty is to question all costs, practices, and budgeting processes. Now more than ever is a great time to get your peers to take a hard look at where your customers are spending their time and money, and then working to align your budgets accordingly. Are they reading the newspaper, are they reading magazines, are they listening to the radio?

Figure it out, and start spending where they are. Chances are, many more of your customers than you realize are online. Do you have the presence necessary to meet them there?

Recommendation: Do some quick research on Forrester, Pew Internet Research Project, or any of the other major research companies that study human behavior on this topic, then take that research to your next budget meeting and ask how this should affect your spend for 2009.

2. Education Is Always the Key
Ask anyone who has spent their life fighting the major epidemics of the world—AIDS, poverty, etc.—and they'll tell you that the key to solving the problem is education. Education on safe sex, education on malnutrition... education is always the first and most important step.

Today, with the enormous shift toward online communication, education of your stakeholders, coworkers, and superiors about the online space is essential to enabling solutions for years to come.

Going to their office and asking for additional resources (again!) for this year's online efforts won't do the trick. Educate yourself to educate them, and it will be smooth sailing for years to come.

Recommendation: Sign up yourself or a key stakeholder for a good webinar, conference, or certification program, or buy a great book on online media, and really get serious about starting the education process.

1. No Fear
Now is not the time to cower in your shell and hope this whole recession thing passes. If you fear the economic change that is upon us, the consequence will be poor results, bad decisions, and, for many, job loss.

On the other hand, if you embrace change, build a plan to capitalize on it, and approach your team with the attitude of becoming stronger as a result, you will find that the bumpy ride ahead can be more enjoyable with the positive focus and aggressive approach to tackling the challenge.

Recommendation: Build a plan that proactively tackles the issues versus reactively "kicks the can" of despair. So, what does "No Fear" actually translate into?

It's a matter of attitude: "We have an opportunity to kick our competition's butt because we are going to do XYZ to gain market share while they scramble."

It's functional: "We need to start doing more with less, which means making the existing programs that we keep better, and getting rid of those that we cannot measure."

It's proactive and goal-driven: "If we can cut marketing cost 20% and increase lead generation 10%, then we'll open up more budget and the marketing team will be bonused."

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Luxury Design Meets Social Responsibility

2009-01-11T22:07:00.000-08:00

Braggadocio Of The Day
Client: Mary Jurek Design, Inc.
URL: http://www.maryjurekdesigninc.com/
Status: Luxuriously simple products favored by celeb moms and stay-at-home moms alike

Luxury Design Meets Social Responsibility
By Amanda Blake

As a copywriter, I meet lots of business people. Most are pleasant and some have good products or services to offer. It is rare to meet someone who runs a successful business in a creative industry that is not only smart; it is innovative. It was not a little surprise and delight that Mary Jurek was introduced to me.

Mary founded Mary Jurek Design, Inc. in 1998 after winning international awards and working as a jewelry and watch artiste designing for notable brands including Piaget, Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Wako of Tokyo, Gubelin of Switzerland, and Gump’s of San Francisco.

To say her tableware and home décor pieces are beautiful and beautifully functional is only one aspect of what is happening. All of her products are hand-made by artisans throughout the world with direct creative input from and oversight from Mary. In addition to designing her product lines, Mary spends a great deal of time traveling to economically underdeveloped parts of the world in order to directly create jobs for people.

Her clients range from Hollywood celebrities and Fortune 500 CEOs to retail stores and hard working housewives. Mary's tableware and home products juxtapose hand-hammered stainless steel with a soft, organic flare, creating an “old world meets modern day” style that appeals to luxury lifestyle enthusiasts everywhere.

I was lucky enough to have Mary answer a few questions about what her business means to her recently:

AB: Can you share a factory finding story?
MJ: Visiting a small curio shop in Thailand, I picked up a small bowl that interested me. I asked the owner if she could help me find the maker. That factory is still my #1 supplier.

AB: How do you define "Conscious Capitalism"?
MJ: By practicing the Golden Rule.

AB: What inspires you?
MJ: Ancient history and today's lifestyle trends.

AB: What is your experience as a woman who is a business owner?
MJ: My experience is that first impressions are usually about gender and the second impression is about knowledge.

AB: What does "success" mean to you?
MJ: Learning how to make good decisions.

AB: What does the future hold for Mary Jurek Design?
MJ: My business is built on solid values. If we continue to offer customers products that make them happy, then our future lies in continuing to listen to them.

Mary will continue to create for her clients, provide opportunities for her suppliers and give back to communities around the world. This fascinating, quietly inspirational lady marches forward in these uncertain times full of passion and a “people before profits” business philosophy.

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Audiolife Featured On Indie Music Tech

2009-01-08T15:33:00.000-08:00

Braggadocio Of The Day
Client: Audiolife
URL: http://www.audiolife.com/
Status: Launching public beta late January

Introducing Audiolife: A Conversation with Brandon Hance
An Interview with IndieMusicTech.com

Are you looking for a single location to create, sell and manage custom swag, physical CDs, digital music, and even ringtones across multiple websites, blogs and social networks? If yes, than Audiolife may be what you need. They're still in beta, but this music tech startup has potential with a minimalistic, fast and easy-to-use UI.

For additional information about Audiolife, check out their video, or you can read my interview with Co-Founder Brandon Hance below:

Was curious, why did you start Audiolife?
Brandon: We started Audiolife because we wanted to help create a "middle class" in the industry. We wanted to empower musicians to build a sustainable career doing what they love doing most- music. Putting together a comprehensive e-commerce solution takes lots of time, money and expertise- most of which artists have very little of. We wanted to create a solution that was easy, free, and powerful that would let them sell all of their digital and physical products from one central location.

Good stuff, how does AL make money, and what % do do you guys take from DD sales, physical sales, merch, etc.?
Brandon: We like to think of it as having a partnership with artists- we make money when they make money. For each product (downloads, Cds, etc.) there is a minimum price that has our cost included, and we give artists the ability to set their own retail prices on top of it. For example, we'll manufacture and ship the CD directly to a fan for $5, so if the artists sells a CD for $15, they'd make $10 profit/CD. The beauty here is that artists have no up front costs for the CD's, no membership costs, and no hassle of making, shipping, etc. They simply upload their designs, set their prices and begin selling immediately. They have the flexibility to change their music, artwork and prices as often as they'd like...for example, artists can have a live CD for every show.

Very cool! One thing I like about AL are the step-by-step wizards you created for an artist to add merch, DD, ringtones, etc. What features do you see adding in the future?
Brandon: We are in the process of adding a comprehensive record label solution, warehousing and fulfillment services, and a re-sizable and re-skinnable storefront. There are a handful of other really exciting things in the pipeline, but I don't want to let the cat out of the bag yet.

Gotcha; no worries, so how long have you guys been building AL and can you provide some details about the team and your background?
Brandon: We founded Inhance Media in June of 2005 and Audiolife about one year ago. There are 3 founders: Brandon Hance, Aaron Wiener and Nishit Rathod. Aaron is the musician that we essentially built the business around. Nishit is a PhD computer scientist/musician and I was a music business major at USC and worked in the industry as a music manager prior to starting Audiolife.

Nice! Are you guys working full time on AL? If so, how are you all funded? Self, Angel, Venture, etc.?
Brandon: We're working double time :-) and we’re Angel Funded.LOL! I definitely understand, can you provide any details about the angel round?Brandon: We did a seed round, Series A, and Series A-1

Congrats! One last question, do you have any other info you would like to provide/share that we didn’t discuss?
Brandon: just that companies like Audiolife and Band Metrics give artists the power of a record label- they can literally run their entire business through us, but they still have to have the skill, discipline and drive to DO IT! I've found that artists get very excited about services (not just ours) but don’t get around to it. And this is the most exciting time in the history of the music industry for up-and-coming bands if they take advantage of all of the opportunities that are out there.

No doubt - well said Brandon! :-)

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Top 4 Social Media Tools of 2009

2009-01-07T06:57:00.000-08:00

Expert Tip Of The Week:
By: Rebekah Iliff
Subject: Social Media

Marketwire, my personal favorite for all thing "press," hosted a killer webinar yesterday in which they revealed some extremely important insights into social media (social marketing, and social network marketing) and where we're headed in 2009.

According to Sally Falkow of Expanison+, here are the top four things you MUST include in your strategy:

1. Social Networks
2. E-Newsletters
3. Blogs
4. Online Video

She projects that within a few months, or at least by the end of 2009, that video will be near the top, if not at the top of the list! For more great tips on social media, visit her ProActive blog: http://falkow.blogsite.com/

Social Media ROI- What's the 'Return on Ignoring'?

2009-01-06T08:52:00.000-08:00

Social Media ROI—What's the 'Return on Ignoring'?
by David Alston
Published on January 6, 2009

ROI is a hot topic.

Discussions surrounding the return on investment of social media have been prevalent lately, and with good reason. In a tightening economy, businesses are scrutinizing their spending and anxious to ensure that their resources are being allocated wisely.

The discussion of ROI has focused mostly on the search for the holy grail of a metric, but adapting traditional metrics to fit social media would be akin to sticking a square peg in a round hole.

But what does "return on investment" really stand for in a business? Roughly translated, it means the value we expect to get out of all the effort we put into something. It's the definition of the output (return) from an input (investment).

But here's the trick: ignoring the input, or doing nothing in social media, will surely guarantee no return at all.

So, then, what is the "Return on Ignoring" social media? Here are some perspectives from the front lines.

The following interviews were recorded at the MarketingProfs Digital Mixer in Scottsdale, AZ in fall 2008. This is the first article in a series that will explore the importance of social media in the marketing mix.

Ignoring the Need to Change?
Gary Vaynerchuk: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W7BQ3kf2i8Y

I love Gary Vaynerchuk's take on this. He's actually hoping the "dumb" companies don't clue into the need to stop doing the same thing they've been doing all along. He's hoping that the recession will actually scare such companies away from change, away from venturing into social media. Why? The survival of the fittest—the "smart" companies will win. Consider Gary's WineLibrary.TV and its phenomenal growth as evidence that the social-media approach works.

Sean McDonald: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iBAoAfIKORI

Social media tools have given consumers the ability to easily express themselves online, without filters. They are out there, actively talking about the brands they love and hate, and why. Consumers are talking to each other about their passions and problems, and they've fully embraced how accessible and transparent the Web is for communication. Businesses need to recognize, however, that consumers expect companies to do the same.

Dell has experienced a wonderful turnaround in brand advocacy since it began listening, sharing, and engaging in social media. In fact, it has built a team around just this function. And as Sean highlights, any brand can start off slowly, by listening. Assign the role to a single person who's passionate about the brand, and allow that person to participate enthusiastically in the community. Watch what happens.

Ignoring Your Customer?
You'd never intentionally ignore customers. You wouldn't turn your back on them at the counter, ignore the phone, or arbitrarily delete emails you receive from them. But customer conversations are happening online now, and ignoring the impact and influence of social media is tantamount to doing just that—ignoring customers.

They're praising products, asking questions, expressing issues, offering suggestions, expressing needs to fulfill—all in the various social media channels. These are merely new communication channels used to convey age-old concepts and deliver feedback to companies in hopes that they will listen and respond.

More importantly, social media isn't private. It's out there boldly for the entire Web to see (including the almighty Google), and a company's absence is only highlighted by such accessibility.

Frank Eliason: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Da2eIw7CIs
Frank Eliason of Comcast knows the power of listening and engaging. He has seen his listening and engagement team grow from himself to a half dozen as customers embraced his use of customer service on Twitter. Frank believes it's paramount for companies to be involved in social media, asking "how can I help?" and "how can I make the brand experience better for you?"

CC Chapman: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nF1k6gVKPgc
For CC Chapman, a down economy should give companies even more incentive to get more engaged with their customer base. People will continue to share and recommend, even in tough times. Knowing who your advocates are and what they need to remain loyal supporters could be just the thing to separate your brand from your competitors.

Ignoring Your Future?
Connie Reece: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NuBqO_S0_LI
Your future customers are using social media. As Connie points out, the younger generation—those age 13 to 25—aren't using the internet and email the same way you did.
Not building solid, transparent, accessible relationships online with these consumers could very well be the death knell for your brand. And the brands that figure out how to relate on a new level and have true conversations with these consumers can earn advocates for life.
Donna Tocci: Communicating with the Next Generation through Social Media http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WJp0H8OwrM0

It's not just about buying habits. As Donna Tocci highlights, it's also about relating to those who will work for your company. Today's employees want to believe in the brand they work for, and connecting to them through social media could be a far more compelling way to engage and recruit future members of the team.

Ignoring Isn't an Option
Social media is changing business. It's transforming and evolving processes, customer service, and communication as we know it. Exploring investment return for social media is valid and necessary within a business framework. But equally important is carefully assessing the price for not being involved.

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Boxers & Ballerinas Launches FREE "How-To" Video Series

2009-01-02T07:54:00.000-08:00

Newsflash.....

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

BOXERS & BALLERINAS LAUNCHES FREE “HOW-TO” VIDEO SERIES JUST IN TIME FOR 2009 HEALTH AND FITNESS RESOLUTIONS

Studio City-based Boxers & Ballerinas will offer boxing and dancing enthusiasts around the world a chance to learn the basics with a free video series featuring pro-boxer Ricky Quiles and professional dancer Kelby Brown

Los Angeles, CA (January 1, 2009)- As 2009 New Year’s resolutions for getting back in shape kick-in, Boxers & Ballerinas (http://www.blogger.com/www.BoxersAndBallerinas.tv) knocks-out any excuses with a series of FREE “How-To” videos that can be viewed from anywhere and practiced anytime.
The videos, instructed by champion prizefighter, Ricky “Showtime” Quiles (WBF title, NABO title, WBC title, NABA title), and professional dancer Kelby Brown (Cirque Du Soleil’s “Mystere”, Celine Dion’s “A New Day,” MTV’s “House Of Style”) give viewers specific combinations and tips for perfecting their punches and pirouettes.

“The purpose of this series is to give people who are interested in boxing and ballet a chance to learn some basics at no cost,” remarked Rebekah Iliff, Founder & Executive Director of Boxers & Ballerinas, Inc. “We know that many people will hop back on the fitness wagon this time of year, but with the economic downturn we also understand that offering free videos will be a great way to build our credibility and client loyalty.”

The Boxers & Ballerinas January 2009 “How-To” video series includes:

· How-To Throw A Jab
· How-To Throw A Power Punch
· How-To Throw A 5 Punch Combination
· How-To Warm Up For Dance Class (3 separate combinations)
· How-To Pirouette

To view the video series please visit the following link: http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=462BB849041EEEAB

About Boxers & Ballerinas, Inc.
Boxers & Ballerinas, Inc. (http://www.blogger.com/www.BoxersAndBallerinas.tv) is an arts, entertainment, and recreation company founded by entrepreneur and former professional ballet dancer Rebekah Iliff and world champion prizefighter Ricky “Showtime” Quiles. Through fun and challenging classes, workshops, birthday parties, and private training, Boxers & Ballerinas gives tweens and teens many exciting opportunities to improve their athletic and artistic skills as well as build positive self-esteem.

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Common Fallacies In International Media Development

2008-12-30T10:39:00.000-08:00

Braggadocio Of The Day
Company: World Wise
Author: Ted Iliff

Ted Iliff (yes, he's my cousin) has spent over thirty years in the media industry as an editor at CNN-I, a producer for Voice of America, and as an international correspondent who dodged bullets and bombs in parts of the world that most of us wouldn't touch with a ten-foot -- or hundred foot -- pole.

He has some very wise words about international media development...and believe me, he knows his stuff. Take a gander....

Common Fallacies in International Media Development

The American Way Is the Only Way.
This is not only misguided; it can be dangerous. For almost three centuries, American media laws and practices evolved and matured along with American democracy. In many developing countries, the “right to know” is not yet established. Journalists trying to exercise that right often lose their jobs, their liberty and in some cases their lives. WorldWise consultants concentrate on practical approaches to news production and management, instilling professionalism without endangering professionals.

Training the Young Is the Best Hope for the Future
If young journalists learn the best professional methods and then can’t practice them, the training has been wasted. Managers must also acquiesce to the high standards taught by WorldWise consultants. They control the news organization’s product and business practices. Without their involvement, any effort to improve a station or agency will face influential resistance that can thwart any attempt to improve.

What Works for Us Will Work for Them
This is often a mistaken assumption, particularly in news production. For example, the tease is a crucial component of nearly all U.S. television newscasts. Some consultants insist on teaching the concept of the tease, even in countries with laws banning commercial breaks during newscasts. Such laws make teases moot. WorldWise consultants know how to spot these traps and how to deal with them.

A Good Translator Is All You Need for Good Communication
In situations requiring translation, the speaker shares responsibility with the translator for effective communication. Americans love to tell jokes, speak with sarcasm and use fashionable phrases or slang. All these can cause serious misunderstandings when filtered through the veil of translation. WorldWise consultants know how to communicate clearly through a translator while still keeping the atmosphere as light and enjoyable as the culture and topic will allow.

Any Experienced Professional Can Be a Consultant
A consultant is far more than someone who spouts a litany of experiences to a room full of strangers. Consultants are teachers, mentors, advisers, critics, cheerleaders, story-tellers and sometimes even entertainers. They have to know their stuff, and they have to communicate that knowledge clearly and effectively. Plus, to borrow a phrase from “The Music Man,” they have to know the territory. A consultant who cannot tailor a presentation to local circumstances will fail. WorldWise consultants always know the territory and how to foster success in it.

Only Large, Established Consulting Firms Can Produce Results
To explode that myth, just look at the ugly headlines generated by some famous consulting giants. WorldWise fills a niche by concentrating on international media development. Our consultants are specialists. They are not tied to a “company line” or a one-size-fits-all formula. They are as creative as they are capable.

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OnlyWire 2.0

2008-12-30T08:57:00.000-08:00

Testing A New Bookmarking Service.

What People Googled in 2008, And What It Means For New Media Marketers

2008-12-29T10:23:00.001-08:00

Expert Tip Of The Week
By: Rebekah Iliff, Founder, Smart Girls Consulting
URL: http://www.smartgirlsconsulting.com/

What People Googled in 2008, And What It Means For New Media Marketers

I came across an article today which gives interesting insights into the social consciousness...since Google is now the gold-standard by which we measure what's important and what isn't.

While it may seem like a "no-duh" moment when you find out that words like "depression" and "mortgage crisis" are currently at the top of Google searches, what it means for savvy new media marketers is that you can find ways to incorporate top search terms into your ongoing media strategies in order to exploit online search trends.

By understanding how and when social consciousness shifts, and that what people are searching for then gives rise to what search engines will rank higher, we can deduce that by continually being on top of (or ahead of is good too) trends, then we can find creative ways to develop content that surrounds those issues.

Oh, just read it...it's interesting with or without the marketing babble:

http://tbm.thebigmoney.com/blogs/feeling-lucky/2008/12/26/year-google

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Top 33 FREE Business Tools & Software....Just In Time For The Holidays

2008-12-23T08:21:00.000-08:00

Braggadocio of the Day
Client: Rainmaker Ad Ventures
URL: http://www.RainmakerAdVentures.com
Status: Internet Marketing Company founded in 2004 by marketing expert, Drew Kossoff

During this "oh so jolly" time of the year, I find myself usually scrooging it out on the couch with a cup-o-tea and cheesy Lifetime fa-la-la-la Christmas movies with titles like "When Judith And Kenny Fell In Love On Christmas Eve," or "Fru Fru The Fun Loving Holiday Dog Saves Christmaskuh"....you know the ones.

Not that I don't LUUUUH-VE the holidays, but it always gets me pondering the question: why on earth isn't everyone this happy or nice all the time? Would it be too much to ask? Can't we be giving and friendly all year round---like they are at the North Pole (at least according to "Fred Claus" the movie).

On that note, my Santa Claus of a client, Drew Kossoff - quite possibly the most brilliant online marketing dude on this planet - has decided to spread a little holiday cheer of his own by releasing....DRUMROLL PLEASE (no, not you Little Drummer Boy, you step back).....

"Top 33 FREE Business Tools & Software Every Bootstrapping Entrepreneur Needs To Know About"

Honestly, 'twould be foolish not to at least take a peek...you know you want to.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FREE REPORT!

Fa-la-la-la-la to you too!

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Mary Jurek Brings A Little Luxury To L.A. Celebs

2008-12-22T08:46:00.000-08:00

News Flash...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

MARY JUREK DESIGN BRINGS A LITTLE LUXURY TO CELEBRITY PARENTS
Los Angeles-based luxury goods company Mary Jurek Design, Inc. takes part in Distinctive Assets’ annual Babes In Toyland gifting event

Los Angeles, CA (December 2008)- Celebrity parents such as Heidi Klum, Debra Messing, Victoria Beckham, and Nicole Richie, were among several luxury loving A-listers who have received a special holiday gift by international design award-winner and no-nonsense entrepreneur, Mary Jurek. Mary Jurek Design (www.MaryJurekDesignInc.com) was chosen exclusively by Los Angeles-based Distinctive Assets to be part of their annual “Babes In Toyland” promotional gifting event.

“We take pride in designing products that are both elegant and practical,” remarked Mary Jurek, Founder of Mary Jurek Design, Inc. “I think the gift we chose is perfect for any parent because it’s multi-use, dishwasher safe, and eco-friendly!”

Celebrity parents received one of the company’s signature pieces: 5-inch Fidelia Bowl with Signature Knot Spoon, which can be used for candy serving or baby-food dishing.

“This product is classy enough to dress up a fashionable, star-studded fete, but the reality is that it’s affordable for both celebrity moms and hard-working housewives alike.”

All Mary Jurek Design, Inc. products retail for $50-$350. High resolution photos are available upon request.

About Mary Jurek Design, Inc.
Mary Jurek Design, Inc. (www.MaryJurekDesignInc.com) is a Los Angeles-based luxury goods company that creates and distributes fine tableware and home design products to retail stores throughout the United States. Founded in 1998 by award winning jewelry and watch artisan Mary Jurek, the company juxtaposes hand-hammered stainless steel with a soft, organic flare, creating an “old world meets modern day” style that appeals to luxury lifestyle enthusiasts everywhere.

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Celebrity Parents Will Perfect Their Punches & Pirouettes

2008-12-21T14:06:00.000-08:00

News Flash....

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

BOXERS & BALLERINAS GIVES CELEBRITY PARENTS A CHANCE TO MOVE AND GROOVE

Studio City-based Boxers & Ballerinas will offer kids classes and all-ages private training to celebrity parents as part of the annual Babes In Toyland gifting initiative

Los Angeles, CA (December 2008)- Celebrity parents such as Victoria Beckham, Debra Messing, Heidi Klum, Gwen Stefani, and Nicole Richie can now decide whether to perfect their punch or perk-up their pirouette with a recent gift from Boxers & Ballerinas, Inc. (www.BoxersAndBallerinas.tv). Chosen as an exclusive participant in Distinctive Assets’ annual Babes In Toyland gifting event, the dance and boxing studio have recently “gifted” celebs with $100 worth of classes or private training.

“We are excited to have this opportunity to reach over fifty A-List celebrities with our gift certificates,” remarked Rebekah Iliff, Co-Founder of Boxers & Ballerinas, Inc. “Many of these families live close to our studio, and we hope this will give them the extra incentive to come by and check out our amazing selection of tween, teen, and family classes, as well as private and semi-private training.”

Boxers & Ballerinas classes include:

· Boxing Cardio Workout™
· Ballet Cardio Workout™
· B&BPower Girls™
· B&B Ballet™
· B&B Dance Mix™

Celebrities and their kids will be able to take classes from the company’s elite roster of instructors including: champion prizefighter Ricky “Showtime” Quiles (WBF title, NABO title, WBC title, NABA title) professional dancer Kelby Brown (Cirque du Soleil’s “Mystere,” Celine Dion’s “A New Day,” MTV’s “House Of Style”), and professional dancer Cosimo DeTommaso (Dance Theatre of Ireland, IT Dansa, World Music Awards, Celine Dion’s “A New Day”).

About Boxers & Ballerinas, Inc.
Boxers & Ballerinas, Inc. is an arts, entertainment, and recreation company founded by entrepreneur and former professional ballet dancer Rebekah Iliff and world champion prizefighter Ricky “Showtime” Quiles. Through fun and challenging classes, workshops, birthday parties, and cool products, Boxers & Ballerinas gives tweens and teens many exciting opportunities to improve their athletic and artistic skills as well as build positive self-esteem.

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Sustainable Holiday Gifts Celebs Love And We Can Afford

2008-12-18T17:09:00.000-08:00

Braggadocio Of The Day:
Client: Mary Jurek Design, Inc.
URL: http://www.MaryJurekDesignInc.com
Status: Currently a fave among celebs and housewives alike

Sustainable Holiday Gifts Celebs Love And We Can Afford
By: Amanda Blake, Freelance Lifestyle Writer

I know it’s down to the wire. I know there’s only a few holiday shopping days left. If your story is anything like mine, your holiday shopping list started off smaller than usual because simply put, this year has not been easy.

Most of us are facing economic challenges and we all recognize a rapidly growing concern for the environment. No one is interested in just purchasing “stuff” for loved ones. Instead, we are searching for presents that are functional, beautiful and that are ethically and thoughtfully produced. It is with supreme delight and much relief that I have found all of this and more with Mary Jurek Design.

MJD juxtaposes hand-hammered stainless steel with a soft, organic flare, creating an “old world meets modern day” style that appeals to luxury lifestyle enthusiasts everywhere. All products are hand-made by artisans throughout the world with direct creative input from and oversight by Founder Mary Jurek.

MJD’s clients range from Hollywood celebrities and Fortune 500 CEOs to retail stores and hard working housewives. Her eco-friendly, uber sleek collection of stainless steel tableware and home design products have found their way to the top of my list because of their sustainability, durability and reasonable price point.

Ready to shop? Here’s a few current “must haves”:

Ice Scoop with Signature Knot (Retail $55): perfect for the “entertainer” who wants a touch of luxury with every last detail.

5-inch Fidelia Bowl with Signature Knot Spoon (Retail $62): pretty and practical--and requested for celeb moms including Jennifer Garner, Selma Hayek, Nichole Richie, Heidi Klum, and Victoria Beckham--this stainless steel bowl with accompanying spoon can be used for candy serving at fashionable fetes and baby-food dishing in comfortable kitchens.

Primavera Bucket (Retail $110): a great addition to any Holiday or New Year’s soiree for champagne serving, this hand-made, limited edition item “holds the cold” and won’t sweat all over your table setting.

www.MaryJurekDesignInc.com

About The Designer:
Mary founded Mary Jurek Design, Inc. in 1998 after winning international awards and working as a jewelry and watch artiste designing for notable brands including Piaget, Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Wako of Tokyo, Gubelin of Switzerland, and Gump’s of San Francisco.

I was lucky enough to meet Mary in person and visit her local warehouse recently. In addition to being a talented artist and designer, she’s a super cool, inspirational lady who is full of passion and holds a business philosophy of “people before profits."

“As a female entrepreneur, I feel truly blessed to have a thriving business that has maintained its original intention of utilizing timeless materials that are sustainable and durable as well as classically beautiful. We are proud to be designing useful and luxurious products while also reaching a triple bottom line that includes economic, environmental, and social success.”

So, there you have it: sustainable and sexy gifts that generations can enjoy and pass on to the next. I wish you the happiest of holidays!

5 Myths About Email Use: It's Not As Safe As You Think!

2008-12-16T08:28:00.000-08:00

Braggadocio Of The Day
Client: SenditCertified, a division of BioConfirm, LLC
URL: http://www.SenditCertified.com
Status: Officially launching their technology/solution, the ePackage, in January 2009

5 Myths About Email Use
By Jim Robins
COO, VP of Business Development, SenditCertified™

It is a well known yet largely ignored fact: email is far from safe. As business owners and consumers, we compromise our safety because of email’s ease and efficiency. As a result, we continue to put our privacy, security and even our identity at risk when we exchange sensitive information via email.

The Founders and developers behind the SenditCertified ePackage™ would like to take this opportunity to debunk some facts about email that have long been overlooked or worse, misunderstood. Here are five myths about email use according to SenditCertified™:

1. When I hit send, my email goes directly to its intended recipient.
When you hit the send key, your message can “bounce” from node to node and server to server, multiple times before reaching the recipient (a recent test trace indicated 16 hits for one simple email). Each time your message interacts with one of these new servers, a copy is retained, and will be stored there for as long as the server parameters dictate – this is referred to as ‘store and forward’ technology.

2. While my email is traveling thru the Internet, it is secure.
Despite best efforts and assurances by some vendors, the Internet is fraught with vulnerabilities. Should the content of your message be confidential, there is no guarantee that it will not be intercepted during its travels by one or many criminal elements, using literally hundreds of technology tools readily available on different Internet sites.

3. As long as I keep a copy of my original email and attachments, I will be in compliance with any request for e-disclosure.
More than 25% of current court cases require the re-production of specific email messages, and that percentage is increasing every year. The new regulations regarding email retention and reproduction are more complex than could ever be explained here. However, past court cases have proven that if a company can’t reproduce emails pertinent to a given case, in a time-frame dictated by the court, the court can assume the information contained therein must be unfavorable to the company’s position, and render an automatic guilty verdict for the company and its involved employees.

4. Anything my attorney and I communicate via email is covered by the attorney/client privilege.
The rules governing attorney/client privilege have been forced under review, specifically due to the advent of email. At this moment in time, a final judgment on the interpretation of the rule has not been issued. However, it has been ruled recently that because the Internet is ‘public’, any discussion or information communicated via email between an attorney and his/her client are not covered by the privilege.

5. I can delete email records as I see fit, even if they involve confidential company information.
Regulations on email retention are very specific and vary depending on the application and content of each email. For example, emails containing financial information are considered to be the same as financial reports generated by a system, and therefore must be kept for varying periods of time, from 3 – 7 years. Any company not enforcing a strict retention program on their employees, for each type of email, is leaving themselves open to damaging litigation.

It is clear that just as the Internet continues to grow and develop, so do email regulations; and this relatively new mode of communication is extremely vulnerable. The goal of a SenditCertified ePackage™ is to secure your communication and protect your business. The company’s goal is to provide simple access and ease of use with their new technology. They have created a solution that requires no software to load or maintain, while simultaneously providing the most secure transmission and highest level of encryption available.

For more information visit: www.SenditCertified.com

Measuring Social Marketing & Media

2008-12-15T08:47:00.000-08:00

Expert Advice Of The Week
Author: Laura Patterson
Originally Published: November 11, 2008, MarketingProfs.com

Measuring Social Marketing and Media

Hardly a week goes by when you don't read or hear about social marketing or social media. Those terms are frequently used, so it's probably a good idea to first define them.
Social marketing was "born" as a discipline in the 1970s. Philip Kotler & Gerald Zaltman of Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University, in 1971 used the term to describe the application of commercial marketing principles to health, social, and quality-of-life issues.

Social marketing was defined as "seeking to influence social behaviors not to benefit the marketer, but to benefit the target audience and the general society." It leverages the value that consumers/customers have in sharing between themselves and with the brand/manufacturer. It delivers a two-way communication link between the consumer/customer and the brand.
While social marketing was originally developed from the desire that companies had to capitalize on commercial marketing techniques, it has evolved into a more integrative and comprehensive discipline that draws on a wide array of technology, from the traditional media to new media, referred to as "social media."

These social media comprise primarily Internet-based tools for sharing and discussing information, such as viral videos, blogs, and online reviews, to help the company build its business.

Whereas your Web site provides customers and visitors with information about your company and its products—and you use the Internet to enhance your reach through things such as pay-per-click, webinars, and search—social media is about leveraging relationships and networks. It complements other online and offline marketing initiatives.

As more and more companies invest resources into social media and marketing, it's natural to ask the value of this investment is to be measured. Social media and marketing doesn't replace other media, just as radio didn't replace newspaper and television didn't replace radio. Rather, social media are another part of your multichannel-marketing efforts.

The same principles that you apply to determine how much you are going to invest in other media apply to online social media. The first principle is to select your target market. Second, develop consistent relevant messaging and content. Just as with any online effort, content is king when it comes to social media.

Today's challenge with social media and marketing is the same challenge affecting all forms of media: People's attention spans are short and they are easily and quickly distracted. Therefore, just like any other effort, a single strike may not be enough. When you decide to leverage social media you need to deploy it consistently over time.

As with any initiative, you can measure the impact of a social media effort only after you've determined the business outcome it supports and established performance-based objectives. For example, possible objectives could include increasing customer trial, improving brand advocacy/customer loyalty, or increasing share of preference. Each of these objectives should be tied to a business outcome. For example, increasing customer trial or share of preference may be tied to business outcomes around acquiring new customers or accelerating the rate of customer acquisition in order to impact revenue and market share.

The metrics you choose for your social media will be determined after you've established what business outcome needs to be achieved and how the social media supports your marketing objective. However, just as with any communication channel, you will want to have some way to create a measurement framework.

One possible approach is to measure your social media similar to how you measure public relations (PR) using outputs, outcomes, and business results as the basis of your framework. Why choose a framework similar to one used for PR? If you review the purpose of each—PR and social media—you can see that they are kissing cousins.

Public relations is about attempting to favorably influence the impressions and attitudes of a target audience primarily through endorsements (published articles, reports, reviews, etc.) by trusted, credible, objective third parties. Social media isn't very far afield from this idea when you consider that it is designed to have an impact on both engagement and influence through the participation and interaction of third-party networks and communities. They both rely on perceived trusted and credible third parties over which you have very little direct control.
How do you use the outputs, outcomes, and business results framework? First, let's define each category, because each category measures something different:

Outputs measure effectiveness and efficiency, such as... whether the campaign cost-effective, in terms of the number of positive reviews produced by community influencers, or the number of people engaged in a blog discussion on a topic related to your category that includes positive mentions of your company and its product.

Outcomes measure changes, preferably behavioral, resulting from the program/campaign/activity. For example, this could be the quantifiable change in the number of positive reviews for your company's recently launched new product.

Business results measure how the program, campaign, or activity helped the organization achieve a specific business objective. For example, the rate of adoption for your company's new product—that is, the incremental lift in sales for the product as a result of the social media.
The more quantitatively you can measure your social media, the better. The closer those measurements are to business outcomes, even better. How rapidly people in the network engage with you and respond to your "call to action," such as write a review, participate in the blog discussion, or forward something to a colleague.. can all be measured.

What you want to know is whether the social media efforts are having any incremental impact, and if so how much, so you can assess return on investment. Remember to keep the business outcome in mind, such as seeing an increase in the number of people "trialing" your product in order to increase the number of qualified leads in the pipeline and ultimately increase the number of "buyers."

So, even if the social media is producing a good return in terms of its specific metric, if it isn't moving the needle on the business outcome then more than likely you need to revisit your effort.

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Mary Jurek Chosen As Featured Artist By Diana Martin

2008-12-11T07:19:00.000-08:00

Braggadocio Of The Day
Client: Mary Jurek Design, Inc.
URL: http://www.maryjurekdesigninc.com
Status: In business for ten successful years

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

MARY JUREK CHOSEN AS FEATURED ARTIST BY GIFT EXPERT DIANA MARTIN

Los Angeles-based designer Mary Jurek has teamed up with gifting expert Diana Martin to offer necessary luxury to clients the world over

Los Angeles, CA (December 2008)- Mary Jurek Design, Inc.(www.maryjurekdesigninc.com), announced today that Founder Mary Jurek has been chosen as a featured artist by successful entrepreneur and gift expert Diana Martin (www.dianamartingifts.com). Jurek will join the ranks among three other world-renowned designers who will supply Martin’s clients through her corporate gifting, personal gifting, and special event services.

“I feel honored for this incredible opportunity to team up with someone as well-respected in the luxury lifestyle industry as Diana,” remarked Jurek.

“I selected Mary Jurek for her distinctive style and innovative twist on classic shapes. She is committed to superb craftsmanship and the finest quality of materials; I consider her pieces to be ‘necessary luxuries’ because of their practicality and timeless elegance,” said Martin.
DianaMartinGifts.com will feature several of Jurek’s top-selling products including:

Fleura Hexagon Bowl

Fontana Tapered Bowl

Helyx Three-Bowl Snack Set

Primavera Bottle Coaster & Bucket

Primavera Leaf Stand with Glass Bowl

Rosabella Three-Flower Candleholder

All Mary Jurek Design, Inc. products retail for $50-$350. For professional-quality photos please contact Rebekah Iliff, Rebekah@SmartGirlsConsulting.com, or call 310-770-8338.

About Mary Jurek Design, Inc.
Mary Jurek Design, Inc. (www.maryjurekdesigninc.com) is a Los Angeles-based luxury goods company that creates and distributes fine tableware and home design products to retail stores throughout the United States. Founded in 1998 by award winning jewelry and watch artisan Mary Jurek, the company juxtaposes hand-hammered stainless steel with a soft, organic flare, creating an “old world meets modern day” style that appeals to luxury lifestyle enthusiasts everywhere.

About Diana Martin
Diana Martin (www.dianamartingifts.com) has turned a passion for art and a deep understanding of international customs and etiquette into a successful business. She believes that gifts are an expressive form of communication, and that “presentation” in gift giving is truly the key. Her clients include high-level executives from corporations such as Lexus, Nestle, and Kodak, as well entrepreneurs and Hollywood celebrities. Diana is the recipient of a handful of business-related awards, and provides ongoing “gift expert” commentary for local and national print publications and broadcast outlets.

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The Changing Face Of The Music Industry: An Interview With Audiolife CEO Brandon Hance

2008-12-10T07:16:00.001-08:00

Braggadocio Of The Day

Client: Audiolife

URL: http://www.audiolife.com/

Status: Currently in public beta, launching January 2009

Although it really has nothing to do with me, I always like to pretend that my clients' brilliance is a direct reflection on me. That statement can be argued either way, but the fact of the matter is Audiolife is really on to something here.

I don't need to hear an interview on NPR with the Director of the Grammy Museum to tell me that the music industry is changing. Duh. BUT, the question is: what the heck are we gonna do about it. ENTER: Audiolife.

Is it possible that technologically savvy young dudes can also be irrevocably funny and socially engaging? Did I mention cute, too? Read and find out.

The Changing Face of the Music Industry:

How Emerging Media is leveling the playing field. Hoorah!

By: Amanda Blake, Freelance Entertainment & Lifestyle Writer

Interview With: Brandon Hance, Founder & CEO, Audiolife

A music industry revolution is upon us. This is an age where we not only listen to our favorite songs; we wear, text message, download, vote, watch reality shows (or real time on the web), attend concerts, and play Guitar Hero or Rockband as pseudo members of our favorite groups.

The days of paying a premium for albums is sounding a mighty death rattle, and the musician as a brand has been born. This fact, paired with the limitless resources of an online world, means it has never been a better time to be an indie artist! There is virtually no need for major labels which means the artist need not endure a record company’s washing machine in order to get their music heard. The artist’s sound, concept, style and voice remain pure, and with the help of great online resources such as Audiolife (www.audiolife.com), new artists can market retail quality cds, ringtones, downloads and merchandise with no up-front costs.

The music industry and retail environment change daily. What remains true is that it’s all about getting online and getting online everywhere. In the same way independent filmmakers take a video camera, shoot, edit from home, upload and promote their movies for free on social networks, musicians can also record and edit from home, upload and promote their music. It’s an electrifying time to be an artist because the big boys have little to hold over our heads. The possibilities are limited only by imagination and talent (and a bit of “techiness”), rather than budget. Brilliant.

Brandon Hance, CEO and Co-founder of Audiolife, is young enough to appreciate the need of user-friendly services for artists in a digital world and old enough to effectively and efficiently develop and run a business based on this genius concept. We were too curious and Brandon was kind enough to indulge a few questions:

AB: Have you always been musically inclined?
BH: I have always loved music. I’d be lying if I told you that I was “musically inclined”, but I have an appreciation for people who are and have dedicated my career to empowering them.

AB: How was Audiolife conceived?
BH: When I graduated from USC with a music business degree I was ready to break into the industry. I didn’t think it made sense to begin working my way up a traditional record label because the business was changing so dramatically. Meanwhile, there was a social phenomenon taking place online, and I knew in my gut that there was an opportunity to start something new and exciting that could really help artists. So, I teamed up with my best friend Aaron Wiener, who is an indie artist and we began working together to create a platform that would be ideal for him. We figured that if we could make him and his band happy, we were off to a good start.

AB: Are you an artist?
BH: I am a “business” artist, translation= no.

AB: How does Audiolife work?
BH: Audiolife empowers artists to create an entire store of products- digital downloads, ringtones, CDs, merchandise and promo items- and post that store anywhere on the internet, kind of like a YouTube video. This gives artists the ability to sell directly to their fans, thereby eliminating middle men, keeping creative control, and making far more money than they could in a traditional recording agreement.

AB: Is it really free?
BH: Yes, there are no up-front costs, no set-up fees, and really no risks. We like to think of it as though we have a partnership with the artists that we work with. We don’t make money until they make money. Once they sell an item, we take our pre-set fee and the artists make the rest- it’s as simple as that.

AB: What is the long-term vision for Audiolife?
BH: Our ultimate goal is to generate more revenue for artists than any company in the world. To do so, we must continue to innovate, anticipate where the industry is headed, and listen to the artists and fans that we strive to empower.

AB: How do you feel about the music industry’s upheaval?
BH: I personally see it as a very exciting time. Never before have so many artists had an opportunity to succeed. Technology and social media have truly democratized the industry.

AB: What was your last music download?
BH: “Follow My Lead” by Esmee

AB: What’s your current fave ring tone?
BH: “A Milli” by Lil Wayne

AB: What’s your guiltiest musical pleasure?
BH: Blasting music in my car, singing every word and hoping that no one is looking.

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Top 7 FREE Press Release Distribution Sites

2008-12-08T08:24:00.000-08:00

Tip Of The Week
Offered By: Rebekah Iliff, Smart Girls Consulting
URL: http://www.SmartGirlsConsulting.com
Subject: Public Relations/Press Release Distribution

Ever wondered if it's worth spending the ba-gillions of dollars that it costs to send a press release using services like PR Newswire and Marketwire? Is there a better way to distribute your newsworthy tidbits that is more cost-effective?

As any true politician would say: "It depends."

Top-tier distribution services like Marketwire (www.marketwire.com) are the gold-standard when it comes to blasting your news out to the world--because they are a trusted brand and have access to large quantities of communication distribution channels. Same is true for PR Newswire. Another up-and-comer is PR Web.

Not only are these services trusted in the "world of journalism," but they also provide added value because of their "search engine optimization-ability." Any time I send a press release using Marketwire--after I've properly written the headline and body using SEO techniques--the company I'm writing for immediately builds online credibility because they will 100% get picked up on major news outlets. No ifs, ands, buts. Hoo-rah.

And...what's best...without fail I've always gotten at least one or two responses directly from that release within a month or two--which means it does have value for the client--even if not right away.

Where was I going with this? Oh yes, I digress. So if you don't have a huge budget, but you DO have pressworthy news (and you are willing to spend a couple of hours uploading releases, picking categories, and then distributing that news to the appropriate channels) here are the Top 7 FREE services that will still get you ranked in the search engines, and may even getcha some print or broadcast placement:

www.I-newswire.com

www.Newsblaster.com

www.PressExposure.com

www.PRHere.com

www.PRUrgent.com

www.PressMethod.com

www.1888pressrelease.com

Happy press release distribution!

STEVE GUTTENBERG RUNNING NAKED IN CENTRAL PARK?

2008-12-04T07:51:00.000-08:00

NEWS FLASH

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

VIDEO ARMY JOINS FORCES WITH GUTTMAN ASSOCIATES AFTER NAKED STEVE GUTTENBERG VIDEO GOES VIRAL

Video Army, a Los Angeles based viral media marketing company, has joined forces with Guttman Associates after the recent distribution success of Steve Guttenberg video
Los Angeles, CA (November 2008) – Video Army LLC (www.videoarmy.tv) has announced that Beverly Hills-based Guttman Associates will enlist their viral media marketing services for a handful of the firm’s Hollywood clients. Recently, the combined efforts of Danielle Marie Owens of Guttman Associates and Video Army LLC created a viral video internet sensation in less than five days while a historic and much anticipated Presidential election took place.

The video, which was pushed out to over 1,000 online locations worldwide, shows one of the firm’s clients, actor/comedian Steve Guttenberg, being caught by the paparazzi running “naked” through Central Park. Within five days, the video had received over 600,000 views, ranking higher than national broadcast campaigns such as "Heidi Klum Guitar Hero," and was the 31st most viewed video on YouTube.

“We are extremely excited to have the opportunity to work with Guttman Associates on a regular basis, and to provide their top-tier clients with the same services we used with the Steve Guttenberg video,” remarked Video Army Co-Founder, Reed Lucas. “Video marketing really is the next wave of innovation when it comes to emerging media, and we know that joining forces with a reputable company like Guttman Associates will enable us to push this trend forward.”
The application of Video Army’s viral media marketing services will be used for:

-Book, CD, and product promotion
-Website traffic generation
-Movie premier promotion
-Search engine reputation management (SERM)
-Live event promotion
-Oscar promotion
-Creating a seemingly-grassroots promotion for any person, business, or product online

About Video Army
Video Army LLC (www.videoarmy.tv) was founded in 2007 as an eco-friendly advertising method for local businesses in the Venice Beach area. The company rapidly expanded into a powerhouse of video production and editing, with a network of hundreds of distribution sites worldwide. Today, Video Army LLC has served over 100 companies both locally and nationally, and continues to set the viral media marketing trend with its strategic video production and distribution plans.

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Audiolife's 10 Musical Marketing Tips

2008-12-02T06:03:00.000-08:00

Braggadocio Of The Day
Client: Audiolife
URL: http://audiolife.com/
Status: Speaker Sessions, Volume 1 Released

In prep for their official January 2009 launch, Audiolife is releasing "GARAGE TO GLORY," a series of "How To" articles related to music marketing & promotion for independent artists and indie bands. Brilliant? Empowering? Genius Even? Well, I think so....

How To Blow-up Your Band On An Artist’s Budget
By Aaron Wiener
Co-Founder &VP Artist Relations, Audiolife

I’ve been there. Your sound is amazing, your fan base is growing, you are abundant in passion and your wallet has not caught up. Many bands approach the marketing game hot and heavy but ultimately lose steam when it comes to what I like to call “consistence and persistence”. Even more artists simply won’t approach this critical aspect of the industry because they are intimidated or overwhelmed.

I’m here to offer simple, clear and cheap actions that can rocket your band to stardom. If you believe in your music and commit to embracing the business side with these tools, anything is possible. I suggest you start with a few items that seem fun (or at least doable), apply them for a few weeks and once you are comfortable, add a few more.

10 “Easy To Implement” Musical Marketing Tips

1) Sign-up on every social network you can, and go beyond Myspace and Facebook (eg, Bebo, ILike, IMeem, etc.). Some of these sites have millions of users that you will be missing out on if you only stick to the mainstream social networks.

2) Continue to add new content to your website and social networking profiles (most social networks have feeds so whenever you perform new activities, such as adding photos, songs, blogs, new shows etc., it gets picked up on your feeds for fans to see)
a) Create as many songs as possible (multiple versions etc…).
b) Create a weekly blog: Your music draws fans in. Once you have them on your site, having a personal blog will keep them on your site. As they get to know you, the loyalty grows in leaps and bounds.
c) Create as many videos as possible: This doesn’t have to be a video that costs thousands of dollars to create. It could be as simple as a video you record at home working on your newest song while playing an acoustic guitar.

3) Get your fans involved!
a) Have them rate songs.
b) Engage them in the process of choosing what songs will be on your album.
c) Engage them in the process of selecting your album artwork and packaging.

4) Create Fan Ambassadors.
a) Whenever you find true fans that love you and your music, do anything you can to make them feel as involved in your career as possible. They are the ones who will help spread the word.
b) Create custom CDs just for them with their name on it.
c) Write them a song for their birthday and give it to them as a ringtone, download or CD.
d) Give them the task to help spread your music; they are more than willing to do that.

5) Network with other Bands constantly. Make friends!
a) This should be your number one goal anytime you are around musicians. By doing so, you can start booking new events with these artists, and this will help expand your fan base immensely.
b) The more people you know, the more people will help you get known.

6) Connect with Music Bloggers.
a) This is critical. Bloggers focus on getting content out daily, and want to be the person who finds the next big thing. They love to write about music, and establishing a good relationship with key bloggers will help spread the word about your music.
b) Anytime you find a blog you dig, comment and lead them back to your band’s site.

7) Brand your Band!
a) Make sure your website and social networking profiles are tight and enticing when a new fan visits your page.
b) Create: a cool logo that your fans would post around as stickers, flyers, or something they would love to wear; custom products; a CD and merchandise item for every live show; custom shirts for specific fans with their names on it.
c) Sign each of the products that you sell at your shows.
d) Give away your merchandise to fans who will wear it and promote your music.
e) Have a beautiful girl and handsome guy manage your email list during shows. Many men find it hard to turn down writing an email when a beautiful girl comes up to him. You have to use that to your advantage.

8) Utilize tried and true guerilla email marketing tactics.
a) Make sure you add new friends to your social networking profiles on a daily basis. You can do this all day. I would recommend adding the maximum daily as you never know what new fan you will reach, and how that fan can help you.
b) The more you send out, the more you increase the odds of getting new fans
c) Don’t be afraid to send messages out over and over, keep your band and brand in their head at all times. If they don’t listen to you the first or second time you sent a message, they will the third.

9) Follow up with your fans.
a) Send a message to every new fan that is added to your social network profile- this should be instantaneous. Follow up with them and ask how they are enjoying the music.
b) Write comments on other artist’s walls that are similar to you. This helps to create new exposure to their fans (great minds, and all that).

10) Spread the word!
a) Whenever you have a new product, or a big update for your band, get it out there: blog, bulletin, email and SMS text your fans with updated info.

Don't forget to visit us at: http://www.audiolife.com/

Good Advice For Clearing The Blog Fog

2008-12-01T07:18:00.000-08:00

Tip Of The Week
Offered By: Deborah and John-Paul Micek
Outlet: Entrepreneur.com

As swell as I think my own advice is, I came across this article this morning on www.entrepreneur.com. If there is anything more annoying than a "blog ranter" who spews out bad advice about nothing in particular but just keeps talking in run on sentences about how much he or she knows about a given topic even if they're sitting behind a counter at Pizza Hut watching the world go by and doing nothing other than criticizing people than...umm, wait, what was I saying?

Anyway...READ THIS! Small biz owners take note:

http://newmediamarketing.entrepreneur.com/2008/11/20/beware-the-anti-sales-mantras-of-blogging-evangelists/#comment-486

Five Quick Tips For Press Release Writing

2008-11-29T12:04:00.000-08:00

Expert Advice Of The Week
Subject: Press Release Writing
Author: Rebekah Iliff
Why Should You Care? Because bad press release writing is the fastest way to get shoved to the bottom of a journalist, editor, or reporter's trash bin....on or offline.

GET S.M.A.R.T. -5 simple steps fo creating a killer press release

Although it may seem cliché to say, press release writing truly is an art, and journalists are beyond savvy when it comes to deciphering a newsworthy piece of information from a fluffy, sorry excuse for a press release. Not only is it insulting to them when you waste their precious time by tooting your own horn about nothing special, but what’s worse…it makes you look bad. End of story. Bah-Bye.

If you really want to understand what goes in to writing a great press release, and to find out if the information you are sending is up to par, ask yourself these 5 simple questions:

Is your press release….

S=Straightforward
Ask yourself: is the press release written in simple, concise, factual language void of industry jargon and buzz terms? Can I get my point across in an understandable manner in less than 400 words?

M= Magazine Ready
A reporter or editor should be able to take the information from your press release and plop it into any medium without having to correct bad grammar, or call to get specifics on what the heck you’re trying to say. The key is to make the journalist’s job as simple as possible. If you master this, then your chances of getting press placement will increase exponentially.

A= Attention Getting
This is actually the FIRST question you should ask yourself before you even dive into writing a press release. Another way of saying this is "is it newsworthy?" While you may care about the fact that your company toy poodle is having twins, I assure you that no one else will.

R=Researched
Remember that last paper you wrote when you were in the 8th grade, and how you didn’t cite any of your sources but instead just pulled some information out of your, eh-hem, head. Remember how you got an F? Well, needless to say, things haven’t changed much since that day and journalists are much like teachers: they want to see that you’ve done your homework and that you have a thorough understanding of the topic on which you are writing. No, you don’t need actual citations in your press release, but you should definitely be prepared to answer in depth questions if the situation presents itself.

T=Timely
A timely press release is the first cousin of a researched press release. That is to say, a press release that is relevant to current events or cutting edge technology is more likely to get noticed. Remember, it is important to be aware of trends in your particular industry so that you can seize opportunities to create the news!

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Getting Kids Off The Couch And Out Of Your Hair

2008-11-28T07:49:00.000-08:00

Braggadocio Of The Day
Company: Boxers & Ballerinas, Inc.
URL: http://www.boxersandballerinas.tv/
Status: Recently opened a tween/teen dance and boxing studio in Studio City, California

Ever wonder why your mother seemed to enjoy school days more than holidays?

While we went kicking and screaming into carpool vans, my mother would wave politely, smile, and say "Thank you, Karen, I'll be picking them up at 3:30."

Karen would smile back, knowing that in less than a half hour she too would be free from the bickering, nose picking, back-talking, and just plain annoyance that comes with trying to raise three to four kids all in one fell swoop.

When I co-founded and subsequently opened Boxers & Ballerinas, a tween and teen dance and boxing studio located on bustling Ventura Blvd. here in Los Angeles, I had no idea that our classes would provide such a respite for moms (and dads).

Clearly I haven't yet raised my own kids.

After several of the moms said "Oh, you really should have a holiday camp during Christmas break," with a half smile and half look of desperation, I began reminiscing about my own childhood. I remembered the "haggardness" of my own poor mother after the lustre of our Christmas presents had worn off, and she had become just plain worn out.

So, without further adieu, on this Black Friday, Boxers & Ballerinas has announced a Holiday Camp from December 26th-30th from 11am-1pm. The camp will consist of boxing cardio workout, boot camp, and B&B dance mix classes. Details at: www.BoxersAndBallerinas.tv/home.

Move over mama, help is on the way!

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2008-11-26T17:51:00.000-08:00

NEWS FLASH

Who: The Cerebral Palsy International Research Foundation
What: Power Heroes Gala
When: Wednesday, December 3rd
Where: Four Seasons Beverly Hills
Why: To Raise Awareness & Funds

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

THE CEREBRAL PALSY INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION (CPIRF) HOSTS “POWER HEROES” GALA

November (Beverly Hills, CA)-The Cerebral Palsy International Research Foundation has announced it will be hosting its first annual “A Celebration of Heroes” Power Heroes Gala at the Four Seasons Hotel in Los Angeles on December 3, 2008. The evening will highlight role models who are committed to educating, mentoring, and empowering those in need in the African American community. Beverly White, a veteran general assignment reporter for the local NBC affiliate “Channel 4 News” will emcee. Proceeds from the event will launch CPIRF’s new research initiative to prevent and treat Cerebral Palsy in the African American population.

Power Hero honorees of the evening will include: John Amos, Emmy nominated and NAACP Image Award winning actor; power couple Angela Bassett, Emmy & Academy Award nominated, Golden Globe winning actress and husband, Courtney B. Vance, two-time Tony Award nominated actor both of whom are authors and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors for the United States; Valerie Ervin, President of the Ray Charles Foundation; Lou Gossett Jr., Emmy & Oscar award winning actor and creator of the Eracism Foundation; Paula Madison, Executive Vice President, Chief Diversity Officer of NBC Universal, and Areva Martin, Esq., Managing Partner Martin & Martin LLP, President and Co-Founder of the Special Needs Network, Inc.

Honorary Chairs include: Loreen Arbus, philanthropist, minorities advocate, president of The Loreen Arbus Foundation; Anne Johnson Red Cross volunteer extraordinaire; Charles Floyd Johnson producer, writer, director; Taryn Rose, orthopedic surgeon, entrepreneur and luxury shoe designer; Shelley E. Reid, philanthropist, Senior Vice-President Fox Television Studios.
The Cerebral Palsy International Research Foundation’s goal is to raise awareness about the nature and cause of racial disparities in the prevalence of Cerebral Palsy and related developmental disorders. Recently published surveillance studies by the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta indicate the prevalence of Cerebral Palsy highest among African-American children. The reasons for this are unknown, making research a necessity.

For tickets or additional information regarding the CPIRF Power Heroes Gala, please contact Pam Sakow at (323) 525-1275 or email pam@sakowevents.com. Individual tickets are available for $350 on up to $1000 with tables and sponsorships ranging from $7,500 to $150,000. For more information about CPIRF please visit http://www.cpirf.org/ or contact Mindy Aisen MD, CEO Cerebral Palsy International Research Foundation maisen@cpirf.org.

Media Contact:
Daphne Ortiz/k101 agency
323.864.9890
daphne@k101agency.com

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Who Says Doctors Aren't Trendy?

2008-11-25T08:08:00.000-08:00

Braggadocio Of The Day
Client: AuDNet, Inc.
Corporate URL: www.aud-net.com
Consumer Education URL: www.NowiHear.com
Status: Recently launched consumer education site, NowiHear.com, to educate the general public about the importance of hearing health

AuDNet, Inc. (www.aud-net.com), America's rapidly growing network of Doctors Of Audiology, have taken You Tube by storm over the past month by shooting and posting a series of consumer education and promotional videos that direct readers to their recently launched website: www.NowiHear.com.

Now, I grew up with a doctor in my house, and although they are highly intelligent and sometimes accidentally trendy (my dad's been wearing Crocs long before they were "cool" merely because they were "comfy"), most of the time they creep behind technology unless it has to do with medical devices. Sorry, dad, for that vast generalization.

I thought this was worth a brag today....and note to self: maybe doctors really are cool after all?

AuDNet has had over 30,000 video viewers at www.NowiHear.com!
Video is a good way to highlight audiology care and to educate consumers about why he or she should choose to see an audiologist. For more information see "Internet Search To Patient Appointment" November/December 2008 at www.advanceweb.com/aud.

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DHL, Entrepreneurs, & Green Tech, Oh My!

2008-11-20T15:58:00.001-08:00

Braggadocio Of The Day
Client: SenditCertified, A Division of Bioconfirm, LLC
URL: http://www.senditcertified.com/
Status: In public beta, launching new "solution as service" in January 2009

So...I was doing my usual morning http://www.economist.com/ browse, and came across an article that posed the question: "what effect will the recession have on entrepreneurship?"

If my clients are any indication, entrepreneurship is alive and well...and as the article mentioned, some of the most successful companies have been born out of economic downturns.

Enter: SenditCertified, A Division Of Bioconfirm, LLC that is launching in January 2009. Without letting the cat completely out of the bag.....they are picking up where mail delivery services have dropped off by offering an alternative to overnight delivery that is 100% confidential.

What's better? It's GREEN. Less paper, less gas, less waste. Can it be true? Is Green Tech the new Real Estate. Let's hope so.

Mary Jurek Or Saint Mary?

2008-11-18T08:34:00.000-08:00

Braggadocio Of The Day
Client: Mary Jurek Design, Inc.
URL: http://www.maryjurekdesigninc.com/
Status: Launched in 1998, business still going strong

Here's a novel thought: win a few international awards designing for names like Tiffany's and Cartier, decide you're "over" the hoity-toity-ness that accompanies working for large luxury retailers, and build your own business that is actually sustainable over time because you value people over money and quality over quantity. WOW!

Despite the most rauncheous economic conditions, Mary Jurek (owner and designer) remains stable in her original plan: don't overvalue products, design and create products that are truly sustainable over time using materials like stainless steel (her personal fave)...and what's best....if you're going to "outsource," choose to do it in a way that you are having a positive impact on communities (namely women in impoverished areas who are targets for sexual and physical abuse) and leaving as little waste as possible.

Mary Jurek Design, Inc., you have earned the "Braggadocio Of The Day" by no stretch of the imagination. While other businesses struggle to survive, ready to jump on the bandwagon of the "Green Revolution," you are sitting in your understated office doing business as usual because from the beginning you had it right.

2008-11-17T07:09:00.000-08:00

Braggadocio Of The Day
Client: AuDNet, Inc.
URL: http://www.aud-net.com/
Status: Educating consumers on the importance on hearing care through their recently launched consumer eduation website: http://www.nowihear.com/

CURRENT NEWS:

AUDNET, INC. MEMBER DONATES HEARING AIDS TO CLINIC FOR PATIENTS IN NEED

The Venice Family Clinic, the largest free clinic in the U.S., will distribute free hearing aids to residents as part of a new local audiology initiative

Los Angeles, CA (November 2008) – In reaction to the economic downturn and reduction of government-sponsored health services, AuDNet, Inc. member Dr. Gregory Frazer and the Venice Family Clinic have launched a program that will provide free hearing aids for patients who seek quality hearing health care but lack health insurance. The initiative, funded by Pacific Eye & Ear Specialists and Starkey Hearing Foundation will reach men, women, and children living on the Westside of Los Angeles and surrounding communities.

“The mission of the Venice Family Clinic is to provide medical services without charge for those who may be struggling financially or may have been dropped by their private insurance company for various reasons," said Dr. Gregory Frazer, Director of Audiology for the Pacific Eye & Ear Specialists Group. “It is particularly important during this economic downturn for us to be able to offer services and products to every person who walks through our doors, and this program has allowed us to do that.”

“I’m so grateful that organizations like Pacific Eye & Ear Specialists, Venice Family Clinic and the Starkey Hearing Foundation can help people like me who have a job, but just can’t afford hearing aids,” remarked a teary-eyed Rasmin Sewahi, who had been living with a severe hearing impairment for over a decade until she received free services from the collaborative partners.
The new program will provide hundreds of hearing aids to the Venice Family Clinic over the course of the next few years. Many local families will feel the positive impact of this recently launched program as recipients will continue to receive ongoing hearing care as long as the need is evident.

About AuDNet, Inc.
AuDNet, Inc. is a national network of licensed audiologists and Doctors of Audiology who are “THE Hearing Experts.” Network members are an elite group of highly trained, educated, licensed, and experienced professionals specializing in audiology care and rehabilitation, including hearing aids. AuDNet, Inc. offers consumer education through its user-friendly website: www.NowiHear.com. To learn more about AuDNet visit http://www.aud-net.com/ or call 1-800-308-7290.

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Audiolife CEO Brandon Hance Invited To Join Exclusive Global Summit

2008-11-16T10:28:00.000-08:00

Braggadocio Of The Day
Client: Audiolife
URL: http://www.audiolife.com/
Status: In Public Beta, Launch January 2009

CURRENT NEWS :

AUDIOLIFE CEO BRANDON HANCE INVITED TO JOIN EXCLUSIVE GLOBAL SUMMIT

Brandon Hance, CEO and co-founder of artist services company Audiolife, has been chosen to join the planning symposium for The Global Summit in San Francisco

Los Angeles, CA (November 2008) – Audiolife (www.audiolife.com) an Artist Services Company that is set for public launch in January 2009, announced today that CEO and Co-Founder Brandon Hance has been invited to join the planning symposium for The Global Summit (TGS) November 17-19 in San Francisco. The goal of the planning symposium is to lay the foundation for annual summits in seven world regions by inviting community representatives, artists, scholars, and business icons across six diverse social and economic sectors to co-create a vision for The Global Summit 2009.

Hance, a two-time national championship quarterback for the University of Southern California, graduate of USC’s Thornton School of Music, and emerging entrepreneur and visionary in music technology and social commerce, has been named the “Artist in Action” representative for the event.

“I feel extremely honored to have been given this opportunity, and I look forward to working with TGS to facilitate and create realistic goals and objectives for 2009,” remarked Hance. “I also look forward to learning from the other panelists and advocates who share my passion for social entrepreneurship and sustainability but are working in different sectors.”

During the 2 day “action-tank” at the Presidio Golden Gate Club, prefaced by a reception at the Regency Lodge, the exclusive handful of participants will explore global values, shape a citizen direct voting system and place the cornerstones of The Global Summit 2009 and beyond.

About Audiolife
Audiolife, a division of Inhance Media, is an Artist Services Company founded in 2005 by a group of young, entrepreneurial music-enthusiasts. Based in Los Angeles, California, the company is set to publicly launch a comprehensive virtual storefront in January 2009 that will empower artists to reach their fans through digital and physical products.

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