The Conversation Around the Story
Dave Slusher, someone I met all too briefly at the Podcast and Portable Media Expo, has an interesting comment on the whole Ze Frank / Rocketboom story, which has evolved into some kind of broader discussion on the state of videoblogging / internet TV.
He says that the reason he’s all done with Ze Frank (and by the way, I still love The Show and the overall flow of the commentary) is that the show isn’t useful. By useful, Dave comments about the RSS feed not being formatted in a useful way, the fact that the show lacks adequate show notes, and that the name itself isn’t all that distinctive. There’s lots more to read about in that regard, and I recommend you read it on Dave’s site.
So, Dave covers usefulness and Robert mentions engagement. My contribution was just that now’s not the time to tear it up and that we should be working together. Jeneane Sessum says I’m wrong, and she might be right.
But boy, isn’t the conversation great? Does this happen in mainstream TV right now? I’m not sure. I love that we’re in a position within the internet TV videoblogging world to have thoughtful conversations about the medium, the stars, and the usefulness of their products.
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Re: Dave’s comments
It’s interesting that, in this medium, it’s apparently not enough that a show is entertaining. If your technical house isn’t in order that’s reason enough to be dismissed. For Dave, the decision to cut Ze loose is less about content and more about convenience and supporting the community. Fair enough.
Re: Ze vs. RB
A little controversy builds character. I think Ze is pretty funny. I think Rocketboom is pretty fun. I think a few traded shots is no big deal unless you let it turn into one. It seems to me the yield of this little row is an analysis of how stats are tracked (checks and balances, anyone?) and a whole bunch of spicy blog fodder. That can’t be a bad thing, can it?
No harm, no foul?
That’s my perspective as a consumer.
-Jon