The New Media Shake-Up and M&A Game -- My Interview in Forbes

Forbes recently interviewed me about our ongoing fundamental media and entertainment transformation that is driven by mobile-hungry millennials -- and the resulting M&A and other strategic moves that have gone with it.  In my interview, I give my detailed thoughts about Disney/Maker, Otter Media/Fullscreen, Samsung/Milk Video and more -- including my advice to all major media companies -- which is, "Go swiftly into the mobile night.  Go there now, don't overthink it!"

Here is the full article/interview -- including accompanying infographic.

MCN 101: WEBINAR - Free, Hosted By Me & Eunice Shin -- REGISTER NOW!

Lots of interest in MCNs of course -- and, you already know that my team and I at Manatt Digital Media cover the space (and all leading players across that eco-system) very closely.

So, what better time than now to host a free webinar focused exclusively on MCNs?  Yes, absolutely free.  Join me and Eunice Shin of Manatt Digital Media next Thursday, September 25th at 10:30 am Pacific (1:30 pm Eastern).  Register here by clicking on this link.  We’ll lay lay out the overall MCN landscape (including leading MCNs ... and a few “under the radar” gems) -- give our “two cents” -- and answer any and all questions.  So, now’s your chance.

Here is the formal description:

Multi-Channel Networks – What Are They? Who Are They? And Why Do They Matter?

Multi-Channel Networks (MCNs) are driving a fundamental shift in digital media production, distribution and consumption, engaging Millennials in a way that has garnered significant attention from traditional media companies and brands. With 44% of Internet traffic coming from mobile devices in 2013 and 61% expected in 2018, MCNs, which are made up of YouTube and Vine talent, have developed their expertise around building relationships with the growing mobile audience. In a recent survey among Americans aged 13-18, the top five most liked celebrities were YouTube stars. This further speaks to the influence MCNs have among our future consumers.

In a new, free webinar, Manatt Digital Media provides insider insights into what MCNs are and how they are reshaping the online video industry. Join us for this webinar and learn about the shifting online video landscape and potential business opportunities for your company or clients. During this webinar, you will:

•                  Understand what MCNs are and how they are driving transformation within Hollywood, big brands and the online video space.

•                  Discover how MCNs are leading the way for content creators and brands to more effectively reach our future consumers.

•                  Gain insights into key M&A activities, investments, and partnerships that further the growth of the MCNs’ footprint.

•                  Learn about the leading MCNs in different verticals, including sports, fashion and food.

My First WIRED Guest Post - "Media's Online-Offline Nexus: Connecting Virtual, Physical Worlds"

My most recent guest article was just posted on WIRED -- which is my first article for the esteemed digital media/tech pub.  Here it is -- "Media's Online-Offline Nexus: Connecting Virtual, Physical Worlds."  This post covers a concept about which I am very passionate -- that is, the "magic" (both experientially and from a business/economic perspective) that is possible by more closely linking physical (offline) media experiences with virtual (online) media experiences -- with the end result being a more fully "immersive" and impactful overall experience.

Very few companies and services recognize this.  And, much value is being left on the table as a result. That means BIG opportunity for those who "get" it.

If you enjoy it, please re-tweet it and otherwise share it.

My Bloomberg TV Interview -- A New Golden Age of Content?

Yesterday, Bloomberg TV interviewed me live about disruption in the motion picture/television creation and distribution business.  Was very strange being interviewed in San Francisco by a disembodied voice (reporter) remote from New York.  No visual cues whatsoever.  Just an earpiece, and a camera staring at me in the face.  Here is the result ...

Pause & Reflect -- The Cause & Effect

Digital media.  Media meets technology.  It's my world.  It's our world.  Meetings.  Calls.  Emails.  Blogs. Tweets.  We rarely turn it off.  I know I don't (I am writing this post at midnight after all, and likely will be up by 5).  I love it.  And, I need to respond to everything.  Now!

Or do I?  Do we?

Yes, by responding immediately to everything -- doing it all now -- we each knock down those individual trees.  One by one.  But, in so doing, do we miss the forest?  Do we miss the big picture?  The context?  The focus?  The true mission?

Candidly, the answer is frequently yes.  I am always in execution mode -- many of us are.  The cause is the bombardment of inbound messages.  The never-ending "things that can be done."  The internal feeling/drive/passion/obsession/energy to do more.  But, the effect is not always "more."  Full speed and heads down almost certainly leads to loss of true vision ... at least sometimes.

I started my new gig -- as CEO of Manatt Digital Media Ventures -- nearly 3 months ago.  I love it.  Am passionate about it.  And, the good news is that I am bombarded with new business and investment opportunities to consider, new people and companies to meet, and new meetings to take -- opportunities, companies and relationships that need (nay deserve!) exploring.  So, I explore.  All of them!

But, that can lead to drowning in them.

So, last week I did a little experiment.  I checked out for a full day.  I held my own little individual strategic "off-site."  I literally went off site -- away from my office in LA.  Away from my home office in San Diego.  I holed up in a room at my club.  I turned off the phone.  I ignored emails.  Instead, I carefully ... carefully! ... re-read my business plan.  I reflected ... methodically! ... upon its goals.  Its areas of focus.  Its strategies.  And I objectively overlaid the actions I took in the past nearly 3 months on those goals and strategies -- I weighed my actual allocation of time against a candid assessment of how I should be allocating my time.

And it was enlightening ....

Through this one-day exercise, I realized that my actions skewed to certain activities that, while important, were not of paramount importance.  I realized I need to reallocate my time.  I realized I need to sharpen my focus.  And, I realized a very difficult thing ... a very difficult thing for me ... I realized that I need to say "no" some times.  Many times.  Candidly.  Unapologetically.  (But always respectfully).  To opportunities.  To companies.  To meetings.  To people.  I -- none of us -- can do it all.  While not an epiphany (after all, after pausing and reflecting upon it, the conclusion is rather obvious!), this realization was meaningful and impactful.

In other words, I had one of my most productive -- and ROI positive days -- in weeks, even though I did not take a single meeting, answer a single phone call, respond to a single email, write a single blog post, or tweet a single tweet.

I just paused ... and reflected.

And that, my friends, made all the difference.

I plan to build my 1-day individual strategic off-sites into my overall professional schedule -- likely one day per month.  One day to pause, reflect ... and recalibrate.

I urge you to do the same.

Tesla -- The Experience -- A Review

Tesla is the next Apple.  That's certainly what it feels like.  Same obsessively innovative products.  Same obsessively clean "user-friendly" products.  Same obsessively rabid customers.

I am now one of them.

Saturday morning, I picked up my new Tesla S -- after waiting about 6 weeks from the time I ordered  (the picture below shows my joy at pick-up time -- wearing a shirt that my kids don't want me to wear ever again, especially when driving the car -- "daddy, that looks like the kind of guy who loves their car more than their kids!").

Here's my review of the entire Tesla customer experience from start to finish.  I absolutely believe it is a digital media/technology story and relevant to all of us on many levels.  This company is disruptive.  Defines disruptive.

First, why did I buy a Tesla?

I saw one -- drove one -- wanted one.

I justified the overall price tag by reminding myself that Teslas are eco-friendly -- am doing something for the environment.  I justified the overall price tag by reminding myself that I now will be able to use the HOV lanes on my long commutes back and forth from San Diego to LA for my new gig as CEO of Manatt Digital Media Ventures.  I justified the overall price tag by reminding myself that I no longer will need to buy gas (saving at least $400/month) and will receive both a $7500 federal tax credit and a $2500 state rebate.

But, most of all, I simply wanted one.  Let's be honest here.

I made my first call to Tesla on April 17th -- connecting with product specialist and sales team lead Sean LaFond.  This first conversation began a different kind of customer relationship and different level of customer engagement than I believe I have experienced for any kind of product.  Sean simply was a very different kind of car sales specialist.  He was deeply knowledgable.  He was engaging and patient.  He was incredibly helpful.  And, most importantly, he was filled with pride and passion for what he does ... what Tesla does ... and what Tesla and its products represent.  Sean clearly felt empowered and privileged to be part of the Tesla family.  Very Apple-like indeed.

Sean and I interacted throughout my six weeks from start to finish.  He walked me through my initial configuration and online purchase (yes, you purchase this car online -- there are no dealerships, only showrooms).  He helped me with my ongoing questions (I had several).  He introduced me to all of the various personalities involved in my Tesla experience team.  And, once he did, they frequently reached out to me -- called me!  In addition to great guy Sean, there were "Credit Specialist" Mark Paul (financing), "Inside Delivery Experience Specialist" Vassha Lutchman (my personal Tesla ambassador) and, finally, Mike Cornwell  and Christina Breitenberg-Scavuzzo who brought it all home when I picked up my car on Saturday (Mike and Christina are pictured with me below in a very Elon Musk-like pose).

Again, these were real people.  These were people who really cared.  It was a very personal experience.

When I ordered my car 6 weeks back, I was given an estimate of time for start-to-finish -- a possible mid-June date was given.  I pushed back hard -- really wanted my car prior to my upcoming big bday (those who know me, know what that number is).  My update about one week ago was a pick-up date on June 7.  But, then, on Thursday, I received a call from Vaasha -- she left a message with "good news."  Good news indeed.  I picked up my car June 1.

(Below is a picture of my two kids, Hunter and Luca -- Hunter holding our new dog Cooper -- in the San Diego service center).

By now, you likely know all about the Tesla Model S.  It is beautiful in virtually every respect.  One of the most beautiful high-performance cars on the road today (I chose black) -- you will not believe the car's power and acceleration until you drive one.  The future of electric cars is here now.  That's what the Model S represents.  The interior is dominated by the large tablet-style screen in the middle -- incredible.  Not just a gimmick -- it is a highly functional and efficient work of art.  And, of course, Tesla is the first car company to feature continuous automatic software updates during the ownership of your car, meaning that your overall feature set and experience never become obsolete (even if the battery ultimately may be).  You can even download an app to remotely control certain actions (such as cooling the interior of your car) and to access certain critical diagnostics (most importantly, amount of charge in the battery).  Need to know where the nearest charging station is?  There's an app (multiple apps, actually) for that!

Do I have some quibbles with the Tesla S and my overall Tesla experience?  Of course.  First, for a car that aims for perfection, I was surprised that there were no auto "comfort-doors" that gently pull the doors inward to close with a light touch (I had this technology 8 years ago in my BMW 750Li).  Instead, old-world slamming is necessary.  Second, the overall interior definitely feels a bit cold and tech-y.  Don't get me wrong, I generally like it.  But, other luxury cars certainly are "warmer."  Third, Tesla definitely is experiencing some growing pains (which, by the way, is a very good thing; I'd rather have growing pains than the alternative -- Tesla is no Fisker).  Here's an example, I was originally told my car would be available on Memorial Day (May 27), but then subsequently was informed that the May 27 date was mistaken (which then took me to the June 7th date -- which then, as indicated above, pleasantly moved back to June 1st).  And, in the final two weeks -- and for the first time -- a few of my phone calls and emails languished uncharacteristically for a couple days (which led to some frustration on my part and a candid conversation or two).  One more thing, my delivered car was not flawless.  I noticed a small "ding" on one of the doors.  And, on pick-up day at the end of my "guided tour" of my new Model S, my Tesla team informed me that the detailing team was unable to remove a few water spots from the hood of my car.  They reassured me, however, that Tesla would take care of those issues on their dime and at my convenience.  So, "what, me worry?"  Not a chance.

Those are fairly small quibbles in the scheme of things and in an otherwise transformative car buying experience.  Just like Apple disrupted the technology business and consumer hardware, Tesla is disrupting the automobile market.  Brilliant technology, driven by brilliant design, passion and dedication to the cause of great customer experience.  And, oh yes, to the cause of accelerating adoption of electric cars for the sake of the planet.

I firmly believe that this is just the beginning for Tesla -- and the beginning of the Tesla revolution.  This really feels like Apple back in 2002-2003 when it had just introduced the first iPod and launched iTunes.  And, if Tesla performs anywhere near Apple, then all of we believers will be pleased.  Very.  In myriad respects.  Lines will be out the showroom doors -- just like Tesla cars are lining up all around San Diego (I am seeing them everywhere).

My kudos to Elon Musk and the entire Tesla team.

I am a believer.  So much so that I didn't just buy the car, I also bought the stock 6 weeks back.  Am pleased to own a small piece of what Tesla represents.

Vator's Splash LA Event -- VCs & Entrepreneurs Unite!

This Thursday night, May 30 -- at the storied Hollywood Roosevelt hotel -- I will attend my first "Splash" event hosted by Vator (which bills itself as the "Voice of the Entrepreneur").  In fact, it is my first LA-based event since I announced my new role as CEO of Manatt Digital Media Ventures (where I help drive digital media investments, among other things).  Many such VC & entrepreneurial-focused networking events exist.  I attend these very selectively.  But, this one rises above the din for a number of reasons.

First, after being based in San Diego for a number of years, I am now based in LA and am immersing myself in the local entrepreneurial scene -- which is vibrant.  Very.  And increasingly.  Particularly on the digital media side of things (hence, my new role and new Manatt Digital Media).

Second, the agenda is full and compelling -- yes, you have your basic networking.  But, this one looks like the networking actually could be meaningful because Splash has a history of drawing the right mix of creative newbies and "movers and shakers."  Second, there is a full and varied slate of keynotes and panels -- not just one theme.  Third, there should be plenty of food and drink!  And finally, the venue is a good one.

In fact, here is an interesting bit of trivia.  The Hollywood Roosevelt hotel is especially near and dear to me because my grandmother-in-law, Luise Rainer (still kicking at age 103!), is the legendary Hollywood actress who picked up two back-to-back "Best Actress" Academy Awards at the hotel (which served as the venue for the Oscars at that time).

I will take several meetings -- and meet with several promising start-ups -- at the event.  I also will take notes for a post-event review.  Click this link to reach out and set something up.

My New Gig -- My New Hats ... Or, Csathy Goes (Back) to Hollywood

Today is a big day for me, a very big day.  As of today, I am now officially CEO of Manatt Digital Media Ventures (here is the official press release).  That means I am now officially a VC.  And a business connector ... and a negotiator ... and deal-maker ... and consultant ... and ....  You get the point.

Where previously -- and for the past 4+ years -- I have worn one hat as CEO of online video innovator Sorenson Media (and have been honored to wear that hat), now I wear multiple hats.  Where before I was internally focused on the success of one storied company (and we had many), now I am primarily externally focused to help build successes for multiple companies.  I have simply chosen to move my career forward on a very different path at this point in my career.  And, it is a very exciting one for me -- layered, and with multiple ways to add value.  To make a difference.

So, what exactly is Manatt Digital Media Ventures?

It is a division of Manatt Digital Media, a disruptive new full-service digital media professional services business for entrepreneurs, ranging from individuals to companies of every size and stage –- start-up, growth, mature public.  Think of Manatt Digital Media as being a one-stop shop for empowering venture capital, strategic business consulting and partnerships, aggressive and smart negotiating, and unrivaled direct access to A-list artists and global brands.  There is nothing else like it.  And, all these services are grounded in the experience and resources of of Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, one of the most respected and storied law firms for the media, entertainment and advertising industries.  Manatt's roots run deep in the centers of media, entertainment, advertising and technology -- in Los Angeles, New York, and Silicon Valley -- and with the talent that makes it all possible within those centers.  In a word, Manatt is "connected."  That is very attractive to me.

As CEO of Manatt Digital Media Ventures, I am fortunate to help lead the charge at Manatt Digital Media with highly respected, connected, long-time digital media and VC specialist Hale Boggs, who will serve as Chairman of Manatt Digital Media and whose passion it was in the first place to create this new organization.  It was Hale's ambitious, aggressive and bold vision that attracted me to go this very different direction at this point in my career.  Put simply, it was an opportunity that I simply couldn't pass up.  

Hale, I and the rest of the Manatt Digital Media team are ready to hit it out of the park -- to provide unmatched value to every type of player in the digital media eco-system.  We feel bold about what we intend to do -- so bold, in fact, that we wrote a "Manifesto" on our new Manatt Digital Media website that just launched today in conjunction with this news (here is the link to our Manifesto).

And, for me, it gets event better.  I am not leaving Sorenson Media behind.  Not at all.  I will continue to help drive future successes for Sorenson Media -- and for Jim Sorenson -- as a board member.  Sorenson Media is near and dear to me and continues to be an important part of my professional life.  I absolutely believe in the company and the talent within it.  I absolutely respect and believe in Jim Sorenson and his passion for that company (a passion that already has resulted in a massive "win" when part of Sorenson Media spun-out in 2005 in what is still today the largest private equity deal in Utah history).  Sorenson Media team will achieve even greater things going forward in this increasingly video-driven multi-screen world.

But wait, there's still more!  (But, no, there are no ginzu knives part of this deal).  In my new role -- and at this point in my career -- I am able to focus on other types of pursuits that mean much to me.  Pursuits of passion that have significant non-profit and "give back" components.  Pursuits of passion that involve positive social action and achieve positive social impact.  Pursuits of passion that hopefully make a difference -- make the world a better place.  Make me and my family -- our kids and our friends -- more properly guided and internally rewarded and fulfilled.  Some of these projects include my wife, Luisa's, non-profit Giving Tree Movement, and my own passion project -- FM3 Experience, a world-class music festival that I am developing with an A-list team for launch in the Fall of 2014.  We have heavy-hitters aligned in both -- because they too are dreamers ... believers.

It is an exciting new time for me.  And, I feel fortunate -- very fortunate -- to be in this position at this point in my career and in my life.  People -- both professionally and personally (most of all, my wife, Luisa, and our two wonderful kids, Hunter and Luca) -- have made it all possible of course.  That is the most fortunate part of all of it -- the people with whom I am (and have been) connected.

Time to get started.  Attention all you digital media entrepreneurs out there, PITCH ME!

Pandora & Spotify -- 1 More Goliath Coming Your Way -- How Can You Win?

Last week I wrote about goliaths Google and Apple widely reported to be soon starting their own music subscription/streaming services to compete directly with Pandora, Spotify and the host of other "Davids."

Well, that ain't all.  Yesterday, just after Pandora and Spotify had wiped off the sweat from their collective brows and recovered from that news, it was reported that Twitter too likes music -- and plans to enter the fray, Tweet-style.

How can much smaller players like Pandora and Spotify "win" against this coming onslaught?

First, they must offer a significantly better and differentiated customer experience.  Their service simply must be the best.

Second, they must use every effort to optimize their economics as compared with the goliaths.  Most significantly, they must reduce overall COGS -- and that means, primarily, to minimize overall music licensing costs.  Here, the fact that these players are "smaller" should help them.  No music/content company wants to see Apple, Google or Twitter corner the subscription market a la Apple via iTune downloads.

Third, each must think outside of the (Pandora) box to offer a differentiated "experience" and differentiated customer engagement.  One example here is to bring their customer engagement into the physical/offline world -- "Outbox" music festivals for Pandora is just one such possibility (I wrote about this in my recent Huffington Post article titled "8 Ways to Maximize Live Sports & Music Revenues").

Sounds easy?  It ain't.  But, urgency creates opportunity ....

My Latest HuffPost -- 8 Ways to Maximize Live Sports & Music Revenues

Just published again in The Huffington Post -- about a topic near and dear to me -- live music and sports.  Here it is -- "8 Ways to Maximize Live Sports & Music Revenues."

I attend a lot of live events.  I know what matters to me as a fan.  And, I am fortunate to have been both the offline/physical/live event and online/virtual worlds in my career -- and, perhaps accordingly, have a unique perspective.

Enjoy -- let me know what you think -- spread the word.

And, check out the non-profit I reference in the article -- The Giving Tree Movement (which is a non-profit started by my wife, Luisa).

k(NOT)ted Vine -- Because Life Doesn't Happen In 6 Seconds ...

The digerati have essentially crowned Twitter's new "Instagram for Video" app, Vine, the King of all that is mobile video.

But, although I too have coo'd over Vine, let's not forget that it is first and foremost a public sharing app.  Its mandatory 6-second video rule -- while emancipating in some ways -- also is significantly restrictive in others ...

... particularly in the private mobile video sharing context -- a topic about which I have frequently written (including these two guest posts in TechCrunch): (1) Instagram for Video -- Massive Opportunity Yes!  Done Right No!; and Instagram for Video -- Music, Meaning and Moments Succeed Where Others Fail.

Vine IS the most compelling PUBLIC video sharing app right now -- which already is a huge claim to fame (and no small feat).

But, don't forget my earlier thoughts (laid out in detail in both of my TechCrunch pieces) about perhaps the biggest mobile video opportunity -- and, that is, PRIVATE secure sharing of life's special moments with family and friends.  In this context -- this incredibly important context from an overall monetization opportunity on a massive scale -- Vine does not cut it.  It just don't work.

Why?  Precisely because life does not happen in 6 seconds!  Recording your baby's first steps?  Then you better not use Vine because she or he may finally stop wobbling and take that first step on second 7 or 8!  And, poof!  That moment would be lost forever!

That's where mobile sharing without limits is absolutely critical.

So, while Vine is a compelling (perhaps most compelling) public sharing app, that' all that it is (which is enough for Twitter/Vine by the way ... they do have a built-in audience!).

For slices of life -- real life moments in time -- the market and massive opportunity is still up for grabs.

Don't Givit away.  Go grab it!

Vine -- The "Instagram for Video" Holy Grail? My Verdict

REVISED 1/25/13 at 3:55 pm PT

My TechCrunch guest post titled "Instagram for Video -- Music, Meaning & Moments Succeed Where Others Fail" -- went live this past weekend and generated a lot of interest in a topic that is obviously top of mind (judging by the over 600 retweets).  Bottom line -- the race to be the next "Instagram for Video" is on.

Since my post went live just a few days back, several important and relevant developments -- most notably, that Twitter's "Vine" video sharing app is live as of today and available via the App Store.  The screaming headlines are that Vine is video sharing made fun and easy -- all in 6 seconds (the mandatory length of videos that can be created).

No more.  No less.  6 seconds it is.  Take it or leave it.

So, how do I think Vine measures up -- especially with my inherent skepticism over this 6 second rule?

I was on a mission -- I had to know.  So, I downloaded the app.  Watched the video tutorial.  And was off to the races.

INSTANT "GUT REACTION"/VERDICT -- I LIKE IT (a lot more than I thought I would).  And, Vine definitely has the potential to be a big winner, especially with Twitter behind it (at the risk of stating the obvious).  It is a winner for the U/X as well.  Not sure this is the holy grail of mobile video (that is, THE Instagram for video), but it certainly is the Twitter for Video.  And, that alone is big news.

HITS

-- it is easy -- easy -- easy
-- makes brilliant HD videos
-- the auto editing feature works brilliantly
-- easy captioning -- critical for finding relevant videos
-- easy commenting -- highly social
-- video brevity could foster creativity -- jury is out
-- I can see how Vine could be addictive

MISSES

-- you can't record yourself when you hold your phone (i.e., you can't reverse the iPhone camera while you record) -- must touch the screen to record video with camera looking only forward
-- in fact, I couldn't find a way to share my Vine video with one-click -- if there is one, it certainly ain't intuitive
-- in fact, I tried searching my own name in Vine to see if I could share it that way, and my Vine profile didn't even show up when I typed in my first and last name (strange)
-- the mandatory "6 second rule" is limiting, even if it fosters creativity

On the last point -- which is perhaps THE critical U/X issue for Vine's success -- yes, I understand the "brevity is the soul of wit" rationale.  After all, Vine comes to you from the good folks of Twitter.  But, while Twitter has its maximum 140 character limit, there is no minimum.  There is here with Vine.

Being in the video business, I know another real-world justification for the 6-second rule (at least in terms of the maximum).  Video is an entirely different animal than still photos in terms of file size/data at play for two fundamental reasons: (1) streaming costs are involved; and (2) much more significantly, storage of all that video data (compared to stills) is expensive and fundamentally alters business models.  I wrote about these real-world considerations in a second TechCrunch piece.

Brevity, in video, is the soul of monetization wit (or at least the possibility of ever having a video sharing service justify itself with a real-world business model).

As indicated above, Vine is a great video Twitter.  But is it more?  Well, in my TechCrunch piece from this weekend, I identify two fundamental hurdles to mass adoption of a mobile video service: (1) navigation -- i.e., finding videos that "matter" to you; and (2) video "engagement" -- i.e., videos that are worthy of your limited time and attention span (via "communities of interest").  So, how does Vine faire in those two respects?

Vine solves the first problem by enabling the user to title their Vine video, so that the viewer can judge its relevance to them by more than a mere thumbnail.  In other words, Vine passes the first test.

But, how about test #2 -- engagement?  Here, the jury is obviously still out, because it all depends on how Vine is used.  Certainly, Vine videos conceptually can be organized around topics of mass interest - including the "communities of interest" I discuss in my TechCrunch piece (music, meaning, and moments).  It is simply too early to tell if that will be the case (but it is logical that it will be).  And, if this happens, then the folks at Twitter really got something here.

I DO believe that Vine is missing an obvious "mass appeal" use case right now, however -- and that is the video "soapbox" use case where someone with a personal following (e.g., lots of Twitter followers) could use Vine to spout off on any given topic for 6 seconds (and that person's Twitter followers would care).  As I understand things, this is simply essentially impossible now because the Vine user, as noted above, canNOT record themselves with the backward facing camera.

I would like that use case.  And, I know there are many others out there like me.

And, that means opportunity ....

Entrepreneurs -- A Day In the Life. My Life.

Entrepreneurs never sleep.  Always thinking.  Always doing.

I am guilty on all counts.

Here's my typical day, which I don't believe is atypical for an entrepreneur in the digital media/tech world (or in any world, for that matter).  I write it as an illustration of what I believe is necessary to "make it happen" both professionally and personally -- and, that is, total commitment and passion.

-- up between 4-5 AM (sometimes even earlier) ... don't ask
-- write my blogs (this one, Sorenson Media's, guest posts), review the blogs and news of others, and catch up on all emails until 5:45 AM
-- at the gym right when it opens at 6 AM
-- work out from 6-7 AM (it's a commitment I made to myself long ago to stay disciplined and fit)
-- come home, have breakfast with the kids until 7:45-8 AM
-- in the office between 8-8:30 AM
-- in the office working all day (when not traveling), usually eating lunch at my desk
-- leave the office between 4:30-5:30 PM to get home to have dinner every night with the family (it's a commitment I made to myself long ago, following in the footsteps of my father, also an entrepreneur)
-- work anywhere between 1-2.5 hours nightly and finish all emails for the day
-- put my kids to bed, joke around with them, make sure they feel loved and have smiles on their faces when they go to bed (most of the time I succeed)
-- watch Jon Stewart with my wife, laugh hysterically, asleep by 11 PM
-- dream big, wake up (frequently too early) with ideas I jump up to pursue

Wash.  Rinse.  Repeat.

You will note that this means roughly 10-12 hours of professionally-focused activities on average each day (and certainly there are more hours on weekends, like this post that I am writing now).  But, I really don't consider it to be "work" -- I consider it to be creative.  That's why I call it "professionally focused activities."  And, I feel fortunate to have a career that empowers me to do it this way -- my way.

It's the way I'm made ....

(For another "take" on the level of commitment necessary to succeed as an entrepreneur, read this article from Inc. Magazine.) (to be clear, I don't consider myself to be "remarkably successful", so don't hold that article's title against me; but, I do consider myself to be remarkably fortunate ....).

Intel May Do What Apple Can't -- Lead The "Unbundling" Revolution

I have written literally for years now that Apple inevitably will launch an "all-in-one" flat-screen iTV to penetrate the living room -- the last bastion it has yet to dominate (I predicted 2012, but now it looks like this year).  The major stumbling block -- and likely the ONLY stumbling block at this point (since my bet is that the hardware design has long been developed) -- is the services piece.  And, even more specifically, the key television content (think ESPN here) necessary for Apple to revolutionize the over-the-top (non traditional cable) television experience.  To go boldly where others like Apple have tried to go before ... but have failed so far.

This is the "unbundling" dilemma facing Internet-based OTT service providers (Netflix, Google, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Vudu) in their continuing battles against the cable incumbents who refuse to allow content providers (like ESPN) license their content stripped out (i.e., unbundled) from traditional cable packages of multiple channels.  The OTT guys want to offer consumers a la carte "cable" programming.  The Cable/IPTV guys do not (for now).

So, who will win this battle royale?  Ultimately, consumers always win.  If they want something -- like individual channels (ESPN) -- they will get them, and business models will adapt.  Consumers likely will pay more for those precise channels they want.  And other channels simply will need to adapt their programming in order to survive.

What about the big cable guys?  What does this mean for them?   Well, they will increasingly become the purveyor of the pipes necessary to optimize the overall online television revolution (which ain't a bad thing, by the way, because those broadband services are much higher margin businesses than the content service provider businesses themselves).

Perhaps surprisingly, tech "dinosaur" Intel may be the one to crack the code -- to begin this unbundling revolution.  Why Intel?  Because Intel soon will launch its new virtual cable OTT television service.  And, Intel is taking a novel approach -- actually a similar approach to what Google is doing -- which is to roll out its new service on a city-by-city basis (rather than national) so that it may have more flexibility in negotiating key programming license agreements (including perhaps the holy grail of ESPN).  According to TechCrunch, this plan "also lets Intel work around holdouts in key market rather than having to delay a launch entirely."

But, wait, there's more.  At least one cable behemoth is not threatened by Intel's pursuit of the living room -- and is actually joining Intel on the couch!  That one brave soul, for now, is Comcast.  Future hardware with Intel chips apparently will be able to stream live Comcast Xfinity programming within the home and without the need for a traditional cable box (here are more details hot off the presses at CES).

One more cool thing.  It is reported that Intel's new virtual cable TV service also may try to make DVRs a thing of the past.  How?  According to TechCrunch, "Intel's technology could allow people to recall and watch any programming aired in the last month on the channels they subscribe to.  That means no worrying about scheduling what to record."

In Praise Of Converse All*Stars -- In Praise of True Partnerships

Sneaker-Cam -- the view of my All*Stars from my desk at Sorenson Media

Converse All*Stars.  Nothing like 'em.  Comfortable.  Cool.  Iconic.  They are more than "just a shoe." They represent a state of mind.

Case in point -- these shoes were my constant companion on my recent epic adventure with my wife, Luisa, on the inaugural SS Coachella cruise (a full review of which is here.)

So, why am I writing this?

Because I just recently re-connected with Geoff Cottrill, a great and talented guy who is the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) for Converse.  Cottrill is a force.  High energy.  Immensely creative.  And, instantly likable.  I took this picture from my desk immediately after I caught up with him and just happened to be wearing my Converse sneaks that very day.  I texted this pic to him.  And, I showcase it here, because it reflects my state of mind -- the "attitude" within which I like to work.  This is the view from my desk where, just beyond my All*Stars, you will see my framed autographed record and picture of U2 (a classic iconic band that fits perfectly with my iconic sneaks).  These sneaks also represent so much more.  Here's why.

How do I know Cottrill?  From my days at Universal Studios and his days at Coca-Cola.  We met when we sat on opposite sides of the table negotiating a mega corporate sponsorship agreement valued at hundreds of millions of dollars -- the deal was so big that it was featured in the Wall Street Journal.

Cottrill and I bonded.  Challenging negotiations.  But, ultimately a great result for all involved.  And, it was constructive during the whole wild ride.  More than constructive.  It flowed.  We hit it off.  We stayed in touch.  And, we did another big and innovative deal when I was President & COO of online music pioneer Musicmatch.  The Musicmatch/Coke deal broke new ground at the time.  Back to the Universal Studios/Coke deal.  I remember finalizing the deal about 2 am in Atlanta and then going to celebrate with him in a greasy-spoon Atlanta diner at about 3 am -- and I remember our shared passion for music and playing "In the Air Tonight" on the diner's juke box.  We were exhausted, but laughing.  Was one of those classic professional moments.

And, that's the power of long professional relationships.  You establish trust.  You explore mutual benefit.  You have fun.  And, ultimately, it may lead to a great result for all involved.  THIS is the power of establishing real partnerships.

At a minimum, you meet great people -- and stay in touch with them.

And, you revel in wearing (and otherwise supporting) the iconic stuff that they are now directly involved in creating.

So, back to the sneaks.  Love 'em.  And love the fact that my buddy Cottrill is leading the charge over there with his charisma, passion and overall love for the game.

He too is iconic in my book.

Shutterfly Acquiring ThisLife? No Surprise To Me

TechCrunch and others are reporting that our long-time partner, leading digital memory site Shutterfly, is in the process of acquiring slick photo start-up ThisLife, a service I blogged about extensively a few weeks back.  The rumored price tag is $25 million.

If these reports are true, then forgive me as I pat myself on the back for not being surprised at all about this result.  Why?

Because, as I previously wrote -- in fact this was the last line of that earlier blog -- "perhaps ThisLife's founders are betting that sufficient market traction will make the already-established online photo services of the world stand up and take notice -- and ultimately acquire them."

Well that, in fact, apparently is happening now with Shutterfly (a company that would be the most obvious choice right now from my perspective).  Why? Because ThisLife is the perfect complement to Shutterfly's existing industry-leading service (of which I have been a customer for over 10 years now -- and over 33,000 pics later).  How do I know that number?  Because ThisLife absorbed all of those images from my Shutterfly account when I first signed up for the service.  The two services already were effectively joined at the hip ...

(NOTE -- my company, Sorenson Media, is the full end-to-end video service provider for Shutterfly -- a company I respect deeply both as a partner, and as a long-time customer).

My "Instagram For Video" Analysis Featured in TechCrunch

I recently wrote a guest post for TechCrunch about the quest of myriad start-ups to become the "Instagram for Video" -- and what they must do to succeed.

Yesterday, TechCrunch wrote about an apparently worthy new contender to this potentially massive prize -- FrameBlast.  In that post, TechCrunch writer Mike Butcher, among other things, prominently follows my analysis to support his conclusion.

It is worth checking out.  And, it is kinda' cool that he deems my analysis worthy to frame the relevant issues.

Evergram Part II -- Send A Video Message To Larry Page, Marissa Mayer, Even Zuck

Yesterday I wrote about future messaging platform Evergram -- a service definitely worth checking out -- and which is getting nice, and well-deserved, significant attention (TechCrunch being one).

Well, those smart and passionate guys at Evergram are also clever marketers.  First, they pitch themselves in wedding dresses (yes, 'tis true, check this out -- and you will understand why they did).  Now, they are giving you a direct channel (literally a direct video channel) to Google's Larry Page, Yahoo!'s Marissa Mayer, and Facebook's very own Mark Zuckerberg, enabling you to create a message that will be delivered to them on New Year's Day.

Don't understand?  Well then check out the links above -- and you'll see what I mean.  Smart, very smart.  Helps you internalize the power and potential of "future messaging."  And, gives the company great buzz in the process.

Now it's up to Page, Mayer and Zuck to pick up your message on New Year's Day and watch it ....

Here's more about this ambitious service, Evergram.  Yesterday, I gave some of the back-story about how it came to be in the first place -- i.e., THAT moment of inspiration.  More detail is warranted to give that moment justice -- and here it is directly from the founders themselves (which will help you really understand why Evergram is here in the first place -- and the depth of ambition and meaning behind this company -- it's raison d'etre, if you will):

When Evergram’s CEO and Co-Founder, Duncan Seay, was diagnosed with Cancer in December 2010, his business partner and co-founder, Jeff Caden approached Seay with an idea that would allow him to send wisdom messages to his loved ones for delivery in the event of his death. The idea quickly morphed into a solution firmly embedded around life’s important occasions and deeper human connections; a solution the founders believe will profoundly change the way our society uses social media, and social video, in particular.

“When we first learned that the disruption of time fostered the creation of meaningful messaging, we became very excited," says Caden. When video, text or audio messages are sent for future delivery, whether hours, days or even years later, the degree of thoughtfulness and connection typically increases. This is a phenomenon often experienced in letter writing, and one that the Evergram team has integrated into its entire user interface. Evergram further believes that technology has the ability to strengthen human relationships, and not to replace them; an increasing concern studied by MIT’s Science and Technology Professor, Sherry Turkle, who notes “We expect more from technology and less from each other.” 

Toys R Us, Hallmark -- Netflix Killers?

Did you know that Toys R Us (yes, THAT Toys R Us!) now offers an online movie store (both rentals and purchases) to compete with Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, iTunes and the others?

I didn't, and I am on the cutting edge of the online video business (or at least, so I thought)!

But wait, there's more!  Hallmark (yes, THAT Hallmark!) now too has its own online movie store to compete with, yes, you guessed it, Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, iTunes and the others.  Hallmark's runs under the name "SpiritClips," which was the online streaming service it acquired back in March.  Long-time entertainment executive Rob Fried founded SpiritClips.

As a side note, interestingly, I worked closely with Rob "back in the day" when I was VP Business Affairs at Savoy Pictures (the independent movie and television upstart that ultimately was acquired and essentially unceremoniously shuttered by Barry Diller's Silver King Entertainment).  Rob ran Savoy -- and I was a young hot-shot entertainment wheeler-dealer guy (or at least, so I thought at the time).

In any event, back to the main event.  Toys R Us and Hallmark both hope to take market share away from the 800 pound gorillas by focusing on family-friendly video content.  No "R" rated titles here.  Both also fully intend to flex their marketing muscle both online and offline in their stores -- imagine the special offers they can give to in-store "guests" (who are then driven online to not only watch movies, but also to buy more "stuff").  And, Hallmark has one more trick up its crafty little sleeve.  Hallmark has produced hundreds of movies over the years (since 1951 to be exact), collecting 79 Emmy Awards in the process.  So, it conceptually will be able to flex its "content exclusivity" muscle.

Toys R Us, Hallmark ... who's next?

Quiero Taco Bell?