So this was obviously a seriously screwed up weekend for me. But then I see this, and remember why I started TechCrunch in the first place. I’m good with my decision to stop speaking at events, but I want to keep getting the word out about our community and the cool stuff that’s going on. I can do that better from behind my computer anyway.
Mike, you are doing exactly the right thing. Focus on your strengths, don’t let negative crap get you down. The excitement from the skribit guys comes shooting off the screen, and that’s what it’s all about.
So, you don’t do conferences, fine, but will you come sing at my son’s bar mitzvah?
Mike, I completely agree with your sentiments as a blogger myself. It’s all about community and embracing the development of creative ideas - the blogosphere has sprouted too much “office politics”.. what happened to the good days of “dude, check out this amazing web app! - isn’t that great?” compared to “startup XYZ has this interesting idea but their business plan is lacking so there’s no reason to check it out”. Not sure what I’m saying, as I only got a few hours of sleep after coming back from SW Atlanta..
Mike, we had a blast this weekend. It was fun, painful, invigorating, and tiring at the same time. The best part about being around startups is the activity of gelling and making something that people want and will use. All the rest is just the rest.
Mike - as you know only too well, an unfortunate byproduct of your success is that it paints a large target on you for some people.
TechCrunch is an invaluable resource and you can be justifiably proud of what you have achieved.
To coin a phrase, don’t let the bastards get you down.
I think you’re right Mike. These little things do matters, and I know what it means for small startups, when you review them on your blog.
But to see you talking on stage, is a whole different story. I’ve seen you couples of times, you sure are bringing something different to a conference you are take part at. Not having you as a speaker is everyone’s loss.
Hey Mike
Don’t let the pricks get you down.
TC is great for startups and the tech space in general, keep doing what you love.
Hope you have a better week.
Cheers
Clay
Mike, you right…
ur so right.
1. Losers. Screw ‘em.
2. I go to conferences because I find them fun. The minute they stop being that, I stop going.
3. Sorry I won’t be seeing you in Paris… there’s always London
4. One thing I have noticed appearing of late…. people who I refer to as “VaporGurus”… people who speak at a lot of conferences, but don’t seem to actually do much else. Nobody could accuse you of that.
And some of us read Techcrunch for the quality of your writing. Substance is nothing without style, and not everyone has it (certainly not most of your colleagues). Gosh, I better stop, this is getting way too obsequious.