twitterview with Mia Wedgbury, CEO, High Road Communications

Mia Wedgbury, CEO, High Road Communications

Talk about an insightful interview! Mia Wedgbury (a participant in Art from the Unexpected) and CEO at High Road Communications certainly knows how to give the user what they want. What did we want? To know how High Road continues to be one of the most highly acclaimed PR firms in North America.

We certainly learned why they’re so successful. They believe in the unexpected, they try to catch clients and consumers off guard, they mandate their staff to constantly innovate for clients (generating 80 hours of brainstorm time / week – not billed to the client!). In this current economic landscape, it’s organizations like this that will come out on top. Read on to hear more from Mia.

adlounge@miawedgbury We’re honoured to speak w/u this am, Mia. Have u ever done a live twitterview before, urself or for clients? #artunexpecte

miawedgbury@adlounge Me no. clients yes. Several are using twitter for media and consumer conversations. #artunexpected

miawedgbury@adlounge But I am always up to trying things for the first time #artunexpected

adlounge@miawedgbury High Road, for me, is what a PR agency should be…and I love the huge focus you put on digital….. #artunexpected

adlounge@miawedgbury U boldly annc’d ur dropping all clients that won’t particip in social med. Explain&how was this received? http://bit.ly/pmkJ2

miawedgbury@adlounge We are def putting everything into the digital basket. limitless possibilities

miawedgbury@adlounge I think it shocked our competitors but it didn’t shock our clients. They are already fully integrated

adlounge@miawedgbury And with the appoint’nt of Justin Creally as new Pres, what changes might this bring? #adlounge #artunexpected

miawedgbury@adlounge Justin has been a driving force behind our digital transformation. Expect to see more bold, exciting things from HRC

adlounge@miawedgbury The suspense… looking fwd to seeing what lies ahead! ….. #adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge@miawedgbury Sounds like u’re doing a lot of “Eureka!” thinking. How do u foster & encourage big ideas internally? #adlounge #artunexpected

miawedgbury@adlounge You have to enable it. We created non billable brainstorm codes. We spend 80 hrs a wk brainstorming and every level joins in

miawedgbury@adlounge You need to be permissive and enable risk taking. We include clients in our ideation sessions. it just works #artunexpected

miawedgbury@adlounge That’s what makes our job so fun. I love waking up in the morning and know we are going to bring the best thinking to our clients

adlounge@miawedgbury THAT’s the kind of thing I want to hear! Kudos to u guys! Seriously. Love it!…. #adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge@miawedgbury As one of the 20 partic in #artunexpected, u addressed “Eureka!” in a most unique way. What’s the story? #artunexpected

miawedgbury@adlounge I had a lot of fun with it. My snowboarding journey parrelled my work experiences. balance, guts, stamina, adventure

adlounge@miawedgbury U say ur professional life is in line w ur personal: exhilarating, terrifying, satisfying. Explain. #adlounge #artunexpected

miawedgbury@adlounge Anything worthwhile in life starts w a risk. I am always looking for ops to reinvent myself, my company, our industry

adlounge@miawedgbury Can U share with us the most defining “Eureka!”moment in UR life? Personal or professional #adlounge #artunexpected

miawedgbury@adlounge day High Road won MSFT. As a 25 person agency it was so unexpected for the industry. all about the most passionate, creative team

adlounge@miawedgbury I can well imagine what it was like that day. Very inspiring… #adlounge #artunexpected

miawedgbury@adlounge We definitely celebrated. #artunexpected

adlounge@miawedgbury From a PR perspective, can u describe the top 3 shifts in client behaviour / needs in ’09? #adlounge #artunexpected

miawedgbury@adlounge the future is not digital. The future is integrated…

miawedgbury@adlounge Look for sustainable ideas, not one off blips… #artunexpected

miawedgbury@adlounge And pick programs that make an impact and execute flawlessly. #artunexpected

adlounge@miawedgbury Incredible insight… #adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge@miawedgbury If u knew what u knew 2day about the economy,changing needs of clients/cons what’d u do differently? #adlounge #artunexpected

miawedgbury@adlounge After mnging thru dot com bust we were ready for anything…

miawedgbury@adlounge I’ve learned to never waste a crisis. You don’t have a lot of ops to transform UR co or business and now is the time to do it

adlounge@miawedgbury How can orgs cont. 2 B innovative, current & creative at this time? #artunexpected #adlounge

miawedgbury@adlounge In these times, don’t scale back, think bold. Attract top talent that may have not been available before…

miawedgbury@adlounge And never stop ideating. Instinctively pounce on every opportunity while your competitors are worried about what they will do next

adlounge@miawedgbury #artunexpected gives ppl a chance to see a diff side of u. Any other “did you know” facts ppl should know? #adlounge

miawedgbury@adlounge I’m an open book. Btwn twitter, facebook, my Globe blog, I’m already out there…. #artunexpected

miawedgbury@adlounge anyone that follows me on twitter pretty much hears it all #artunexpected

adlounge@miawedgbury Out of 20 participants’ work http://bit.ly/6Gw2E, is there any piece u look fwd 2 seeing? Why? #artunexpected #adlounge

miawedgbury@adlounge Paul Lavoie from TAXI and David Feldt from Organic. Really creative leaders in our industry #artunexpected

adlounge@miawedgbury I think that’s all from us, but we’re going to take 1 Q from the audience. Anyone…? #adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge@miawedgbury via @nixshi Interested in ur comment about innovation. What do u do 2 go outside agency/client walls for ideas? #artunexpected

miawedgbury@adlounge there’s a great patio across the street . We r an agency that lives online, lptps & search are in every brainstorm

miawedgbury@adlounge We never brainstorm with the same people. We switch up teams, people, levels. Next wk we have a bunch of students coming in

adlounge@miawedgbury Great interview, Mia. I think that’s all we have time for today. It’s been most insightful. Thx so much #adlounge #artunexpected

miawedgbury@adlounge This was great. I think I will do all my interviews over twitter for now on #artunexpected

adloungeWe’ll be posting a transcript of this interview w @miawedgbury shortly on http://bit.ly/18199a #adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge@miawedgbury and followers, Stay tuned on June 1 9:30am EDT for our Twitterview w Anthony Lacavera @globalive #adlounge #artunexpected

Filed under: Ad Lounge News, Content & Updates, Live Twitter Interviews, adlounge, advertising, artfromtheunexpected, canada, highroad, highroadcommunications, innovation, marketing, miawedgbury, northamerica, pr, publicrelations, toronto, trends, trinaboos, unexpected, usa

Live twitterview with Dave Stevens, General Manager at MySpace Canada

Ad Lounge conducted this morning’s twitterview with Dave Stevens, General Manager at MySpace Canada, and one of the 20 participants of Art from the Unexpected

Dave Stevens

Those following along this morning were given a real treat, as this very conversational interview provided insight into MySpace’s web strategy for 2009, how they plan to reach a much broader audience, what MySpace does to encourage big idea thinking internally, and his perspective on how art and business strategy are linked more closely than one might expect.

adlounge@myspacecanada Thx 4 joining us 2day in this twitterview. I know a bunch of ppl r excited to hear what u have 2 say… #artunexpected

adlounge@myspacecanada As Platinum sponsor, u’ve already been such a massive support to SKETCH.ca & #adlounge… #artunexpected

adlounge@myspacecanada We spent an entire day 2gether in the SKETCH.ca studio filming this video. http://bit.ly/bIkkb. #adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge@myspacecanada How did this change ur view on the signif of this event? #adlounge #artunexpected

MySpaceCanada@adlounge I couldn’t believe the incredible talent of some of the kids…

MySpaceCanadaIt was amazing to see some of the work they are producing and I think it’s the best kept secret in Toronto#adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge@myspacecanada U stated once that biz strategy & art are so different, yet so much the same. Can u explain? #artunexpected #adlounge

MySpaceCanadaSo many business strategies don’t work because they don’t look at the future creatively #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@myspacecanada Can U share with us the most defining “Eureka!”moment in UR life? Personal or professional #adlounge #artunexpected

MySpaceCanada@adlounge Wow, there are so many. I think from a personal standpoint it’s being a parent and the joy of your children….

MySpaceCanada@adlounge Professionally I think it was when I first decided to make the move from terrestrial media to online…

MySpaceCanada@adlounge The power and interactivity of the web really was eye opening at the early stages for both users and advertisers…

MySpaceCanada@adlounge Now moving over to MySpace and social media my eyes have opened again at the new ways we can communicate #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@myspacecanada Ur art piece for #artunexpected speaks to ur web strategy for ’09. Care to share the story & inspiration? #adlounge

MySpaceCanada@adlounge The web has exploded into a fragmented world of content and communication tools. That fragmentation has been global…

MySpaceCanada@adlounge It’s so easy to chat with someone in another city, another country or another continent…

MySpaceCanada@adlounge However the concept of hyper-local has yet to make its way into social networking…

MySpaceCanada@adlounge Our piece of art shows how MySpace becomes the hub for like-minded users to come together into relevant groups based on…

adlounge@myspacecanada Agreed, I mean look @ how we’re conducting this interview… who woulda thought this would work? #adlounge #artunexpected

MySpaceCanada@adlounge topic of interest or regionality. I just hope my lack of artistic talent didn’t skew that message #artunexpected #adlounge

MySpaceCanada@adlounge I think I’ve already screwed up this interview 2 or 3 times. Besides everyone should be using MySpace anyway. lol

adlounge@myspacecanada How does myspace encourage “Eureka!”, innovative & “big idea” thinking among ur staff? #adlounge #artunexpected

MySpaceCanada@adlounge Ideas from ANYONE are NEVER swept aside. It’s amazing from where these great ideas will come from…

MySpaceCanada@adlounge It’s also amazing at when these ideas will come. I’ve had people march into my office out of the blue and give me a great idea..

MySpaceCanada@adlounge It’s all about empowerment and listening the idea and letting the team take and mold that idea. #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@myspacecanada With the appointment of ur new CEO, we anticipate some interesting changes. Can u share? #adlounge #artunexpected

MySpaceCanada@adlounge We’ve always had incredible visionaries running our company. From Rupert to Chris DeWolfe to my boss Travis Katz…

MySpaceCanada@adlounge I was in LA last week meeting with the new exec team and they have incredible minds…

MySpaceCanada@adlounge They have incredible experience and will be able to provide a new perspective on our business and although I can’t say too…

MySpaceCanada@adlounge you’ll be seeing some major changes in how MySpace approaches social networking on multiple levels….

MySpaceCanada@adlounge I’m very excited #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@myspacecanada Can’t wait to hear about the developments. I know we’re all waiting #adlounge #artunexpected

MySpaceCanada@adlounge Companies have to continue to think forward and not worry about what is happening right now, cause the conditions…

adlounge@myspacecanada Advert’s budgs r decreasing, yet expectations r the same /greater. How is MySpace mtng this challenge? #adlounge #artunexpected

MySpaceCanada@adlounge MySpace works WITH our clients. We are not a cookie cutter operation. We provide customized and effective solutions…

MySpaceCanada@adlounge for our advertisers with immediate ROI. We are able to create effective dialogues between advertiser and user…

MySpaceCanada@adlounge These interactive dialogues are very effective and builds brand loyalty and gives advertisers better ROI. #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@myspacecanada If u knew what u knew 2day re economy, changing needs of cons & advr, what would u do differently? #adlounge #artunexpected

MySpaceCanada@adlounge Great question. It’s difficult to say as in Canada MySpace is still relatively new. Although access to the site has been…

MySpaceCanada@adlounge available for quite some time, the actual Cdn. operation has only been here 18 months…

MySpaceCanada@adlounge which is what we are doing now. #artunexpected #adlounge
adlounge@myspacecanada How can orgs cont. 2 B innovative, current & creative at this time? #artunexpected #adlounge

MySpaceCanada@adlounge You have to eliminate boundaries. Whether it be economics or capabilities, you have to pretend nothing can stop your idea…

MySpaceCanada@adlounge I tell my staff that it is easier for me to pull back some1 from an idea than push them…

MySpaceCanada@adlounge Companies have to continue to think forward and not worry about what is happening right now, cause the conditions…

MySpaceCanada@adlounge will improve and you have to b there to take advantage of the new conditions or u are left in the dust #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@myspacecanada #artunexpected gives ppl a chance to see a diff side of u. Any other “did you know” facts ppl should know? #adlounge

MySpaceCanada@adlounge I’m incredibly handsome…. …

MySpaceCanada@adlounge I’m someone who isn’t afraid to take on a challenge and love to work with people who feel the same way #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@myspacecanada haha, of course ur handsome, Dave! We only twitterview the lookers. #artunexpected #adlounge

MySpaceCanada@adlounge I just got an IM from my staff and I forgot to mention to you that something you don’t know about me is…

MySpaceCanada@adlounge I have an incredible staff!!! #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@myspacecanada Out of 20 participants’ work http://bit.ly/6Gw2E, is there any piece u look fwd 2 seeing? Why? #artunexpected #adlounge

MySpaceCanada@adlounge I’m looking forward at seeing Dawna’s because of her incredibly powerful personality

MySpaceCanada@adlounge She’s a great person to laugh with #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@myspacecanada I think that’s all from us, but we’re going to take 1 Q from the audience. Anyone…? #adlounge #artunexpected

MySpaceCanada@adlounge Mom?? Got a question… LOL #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@myspacecanada via @creativeniche What are your plans to go after a more broader demo in 09 and onwards? #adlounge #artunexpected

MySpaceCanada@adlounge The concept of our painting somewhat explains the great question. We want to use our communities to bring relevant people…

MySpaceCanada@adlounge together from various demos. (ie. Ethnicity, political interests). Saying that, tho. I think it’s important to not go to….

MySpaceCanada@adlounge broad because you can service neither your user nor your advertisers properly. #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@myspacecanada Great answer. Ppl will have 2 wait 2 c ur piece. I think that’s all we have time for today…. #adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge@myspacecanada Thx 4 taking the time 2 speak w/us, Dave. It’s been a lot of fun. #artunexpected. #adlounge

adloungeWe’ll be posting a transcript of this interview w @myspacecanada shortly on http://bit.ly/18199a #adlounge #artunexpected

MySpaceCanada@adlounge Thanks so much for asking MySpace Canada to be involved. We are extremely proud to join a great cause. #artunexpected #adlounge

Filed under: Ad Lounge News, Content & Updates, Live Twitter Interviews, adlounge, advertising, artfromtheunexpected, business, davestevens, facebook, interactive, marketing, myspacecanada, online, strategy, trinaboos, twitter

Live twitterview with Frank Palmer, CEO at DDB Canada

Frank Palmer, CEO at DDB Canada

Ad Lounge had the rare opportunity this morning to chat live with Mr. Frank Palmer, CEO of DDB Canada (and one of the participants of Art from the Unexpected). As of one Canada’s advertising icons, word spread about this live chat and before we knew it Ad Lounge had followers from all corners of the Globe listening in while they ate their breakfast, got ready for the gym, or finished their documents for a client pitch. It certainly did cause quite the stir, and I have to say – it was a little more nerve racking knowing that there were so many following along. These twitterviews definitely give you that rush of adrenaline, and I know that both Frank and I felt it today.

We chatted about the unique qualities of left / right brain thinking, changes that exist today with shrinking budgets and inflated client expectations, Frank’s passion for practical jokes, and even advice on how to break into the industry today.

We invite you to read through this thoughtful twitterview, and do let us know what you think.

adlounge@ddbfrank What an incredible honour to have u join #adlounge in this twitterVIEW 2day. Thx 4 taking the time, Frank #artunexpected

DDBFrank@adlounge My pleasure. Looking forward to talking to all of you.#artunexpected

adlounge@ddbfrank U were one of the 1st to say “yes” to Ad Lounge’s #artunexpected event. What called you to it so immediately? #adlounge

DDBFrank@adlounge I found it to be a very interesting charitable idea. Very interesting and very unique concept. #artunexpected

adlounge@ddbfrank As both artist and CEO, how do u balance the left/right sides of ur brain? Which is more dominant? #adlounge #artunxpected

DDBFrank@adlounge My business side is more dominant. When it rests, my right brain kicks in…

DDBFrank@adlounge My left brain said I’d make money as a businessman but my right brain said I’d never make money as an artist. #artunexpected

adlounge@DDBfrank Can U share with us the most defining “Eureka!”moment in UR life? #adlounge #artunexpected

DDBFrank@adlounge Other than the birth of my children, it was when a local TV station hired my as an artist. Getting my first job in the industry..

DDBFrank@adlounge still remember that job like it was yesterday. #artunexpected

adlounge@DDBfrank I remember my 1st job like it was yesterday too. Though I def wish I could delete that memory from my mind #artunexpected #adlounge

DDBFrank@adlounge Too bad it wasn’t a great memory, but it probably made you better at what you’re doing. #artunexpected

adlounge@DDBfrank In the #GlobeAndMail interview, u unveiled ur art piece publicly for the 1st time http://bit.ly/3g7fZ #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@DDBfrank Ur piece speaks 2 the current economic climate. What’s ur story and inspiration behind it? #artunexpected #adlounge

DDBFrank@adlounge We’re living in uncertain times. If you’re not make tough biz decisions you’re going to get bruised & bloodied. #artunexpected

adlounge@DDBfrank It was such a perfect piece for the current state of 2day. Love the concept behind the bull & matador #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@DDBfrank How do u encourage “Eureka!”, innovative & “big idea” thinking among your staff @ DDB? #adlounge #artunexpected

DDBFrank@adlounge You have to encourage freedom. Thinking outside of the norm and not settling for what is expected. #artunexpected

DDBFrank@adlounge Give the client what they need not what they’ve asked for or what they are expecting. #artunexpected

adlounge@DDBfrank Can you expand on this? How do u encourage this? Interested to know #adlounge #artunexpected

DDBFrank@adlounge We don’t want to be order takers. We want to instigate. Great work takes great effort, because it’s new and also unexpected.

adlounge@DDBfrank That’s great. What R ur clients requesting of u and ur team at DDB today that they weren’t last year? #adlounge #artunexpected

DDBFrank@adlounge Client are more budget aware, but they still want outstanding creative that achieves their results. #artunexpected

adlounge@DDBfrank Assuming their expectations increase while budgets decrease, how does this push innovation at DDB? #artunexpected #adlounge

DDBFrank@adlounge Good question. @radarddb was just one innovation that we created to use the power of unpaid media to reach our audience.

adlounge@DDBfrank And what a perfect answer to what clients are looking for. Hats off to you guys. #adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge@DDBfrank If u started all over @ DDB what would you do differently, knowing what u know now? #adlounge #artunexpected

DDBFrank@adlounge I’d have a small creative boutique with very smart people. No walls. No silos. No egos. All virtual. Beehive of energy.

DDBFrank@adlounge Great ideas can come from anyone and anywhere not just the creative department. #artunexpected

adlounge@DDBFrank Absolutely agree. I’m a big believer that some of the most creative ideas come from those u’d never expect #adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge@DDBfrank #artunexpected gives ppl a chance to see a diff side of u. Any other “did you know” facts ppl should know? #adlounge

DDBFrank@adlounge I’m the world’s biggest practical joker. I will spend lots of $$$ in order to pull off a good one and I have. #artunexpected

@DDBFrank @adlounge I once sent a co-worker to speak at an event that didn’t exist. No one was there. #artunexpected

@DDBFrank Bet he loved you after that one. Did he get u back? The best I can come up w is replacing shampoo 4 mayo #artunexpected #adlounge

DDBFrank@adlounge He never got me back. I wanted to be a cop so I could always find out clues ahead of time. #artunexpected

adlounge@DDBfrank Wow. Frank Palmer as a cop. An ad industry w/out you. Scary to think what that could have meant #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@DDBfrank One last Q from us before we reach out to a follower… #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@DDBfrank Out of 20 participants’ work http://bit.ly/6Gw2E, is there any piece u look fwd 2 seeing? Why? #artunexpected #adlounge

DDBFrank@adlounge I’d like to see what Geoffrey Roche has created to see if it’s as colourful as the clothes he wears. #artunexpected

adlounge@DDBfrank This is the 2nd int’v we’ve conducted w someone commenting about Roche’s clothes. I want a rep like that #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@DDBfrank And yes… his art piece is stunning… and gigantic! #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@DDBfrank I think that’s all from us, but we’re going to take 1 Q from the audience. #adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge@ddbfrank via. @ejbrooks How would 1 get a job in this ind? Esp. w this economy, been finding it tough! #adlounge #artunexpected

DDBFrank@adlounge @ejbrooks there’s still jobs around for someone who is persistent. Never give up on your dream. #artunexpected

adlounge@DDBfrank I think that’s all we have time for today…. #adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge@DDBfrank – Thx 4 taking the time 2 speak w/us, Frank. It’s been a lot of fun… #artunexpected. #adlounge

DDBFrank@adlounge Thanks for having me on. Great to talk to you. #artunexpected

adloungeWe’ll be posting a transcript of this interview w @ddbfrank shortly on http://bit.ly/18199a #adlounge #artunexpected …

adlounge@DDBfrank and followers, Stay tuned on May 28 9:30am EDT for our Twitterview w Dave Stevens @myspacecanada #adlounge #artunexpected

Filed under: Ad Lounge News, Content & Updates, Live Twitter Interviews, frankpalmer ddbcanada ddb toronto worldwide advertising marketing adagency ad event fundraising artfromtheunexpected adlounge trinaboos matador eureka bigideas

Live twitterVIEW with Tony Chapman, CEO, Capital C

Tony Chapman, Capital C

This afternoon’s interview Ad Lounge with Capital C’s Tony Chapman, one of the 20 participants of Art from the Unexpected, was so insightful… and so much fun! From the Socialization of Ideas to working outside of our Canadian border, to wishing he invented Google, to giving back to community, to Tony’s singing skills, our conversation proved to be one of the more colourful ones we’ve conducted on a twitterVIEW.

Enjoy! We certainly did.

adlounge@tonychapman Uve been a big supporter of #adlounge, providing us w #digitaldigs to filming http://bit.ly/bIkkb with us….. #artunexpected

adlounge@tonychapman … to participating in #artunexpected, to agreeing to do this twitterVIEW. Thanks for taking the time, Tony. #adlounge

TonyChapman you are welcome, one of my favourite charities

TonyChapman And I think everyone appreciates what you have done to create the adlounge community

adlounge@tonychapman Agreed. Anyone interested in checking them out, they’re www.sketch.ca #adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge@tonychapman Uve created a sort of ‘celebrity’ out of ur self in the industry. We’re taking notes – how do u do it? #adlounge #artunexpected

TonyChapman Celebrity is a big stretch – I am very excited about what is happening in marketing in Canada, and also very vocal

TonyChapman I also think our trade media Strategy and Marketing, Globe and Mail, National Post, BNN have been big proponents of our marketing industry

adlounge@tonychapman Being very vocal has obviously paid off #adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge@tonychapman Can U share with us the most defining “Eureka!”moment in UR life? #adlounge #artunexpected

TonyChapman I put myself through school, selling and creating radio advertising – fell in love with the business of ideas

TonyChapman I was paid on commission, and I also fell in love with having no ceiling or floor to my income – DNA of an entrepeneur #artunexpected

adlounge@tonychapman How do u encourage “Eureka!”, innovative & “big idea” thinking among your staff at Capital C? #adlounge #artunexpected

TonyChapman We try to have no silos, no prima donna’s or head creative guru’s – creativity comes from everywhere #artunexpected

TonyChapman We also work very collaboratively with our clients, other agency partners, anyone who can contribute to creating the big idea #artunexpected

adlounge@tonychapman What R ur clients requesting of u and ur team at Capital C today that they weren’t last year? #adlounge #artunexpected

TonyChapman Socialization of ideas – where the consumer works, lives, plays and surfs. #artunexpected

TonyChapman In addition – working outside of our borders – for example we just shot a commercial for Pepsi in the USA #artunexpected

adlounge@tonychapman How R consumer expectations changing, and what R they demanding from businesses today? #adlounge #artunexpected

TonyChapman My media, my brands, my community versus mass. They are also demanding value and values. #artunexpected

adlounge@tonychapman If you could start from scratch at Capital C, what would you do differently knowing what u know now? #adlounge #artunexpected

TonyChapman I would have gone after AOR assignments, including advertising much earlier in our history – and also have invented Google #artunexpected

TonyChapman We kept Capital C to under 20 people for the first ten years – I wanted to see my daughters grow up – no regrets there #artunexpected

adlounge@tonychapman haha. I sometimes wish I invented post-it notes. If only… #adlounge #artunexpected

TonyChapman post it notes – its the post it flip charts that sell for three times the going rate – now that’s trading up #artunexpected

TonyChapman Trina – with your marriage, job, sketch charity and ad lounge – I am not sure you have much time for inventing right now #artunexpected

adlounge@tonychapman Oh, for another day. Just wait and see #artunexpected #adlounge

TonyChapman@adlounge – you need four or five kids to round out your day

adlounge@tonychapman How can orgs cont. 2 B innovative, current & creative at this time? #artunexpected #adlounge

TonyChapman Accept and embrace failure, find clients with courage, and attract extraordinary people, and on the work -not profits #artunexpected

adlounge@tonychapman U said once,”putting a paintbrush where my mouth is will be daunting”.What drew u 2 the #artunexpected challenge? #adlounge

TonyChapman No one knows how to say no to you. Plus sketch is an extraordinary venture that needs to be supported by the creative community

adlounge@tonychapman Very sweet. If that were the case, I’d be a millionaire living in the Bahamas. #adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge@tonychapman Your piece speaks 2 the current state of affairs in Canada. Pls explain UR thinking behind the piece. #adlounge #artunexpected

TonyChapman Canada is at a cross roads – we are either going to fall behind or leap frog beyond, there is no middle ground. We need to invent our future

adlounge@tonychapman #artunexpected gives ppl a chance to see a diff side of u. Any other “did you know” facts ppl should know? #adlounge

TonyChapman Thank god this wasn’t a singing competition

adlounge@tonychapman Out of 20 participants’ work http://bit.ly/6Gw2E, is there any piece u look fwd 2 seeing? Why? #artunexpected #adlounge

TonyChapman Roche’s – if its anything like the way he dresses – it will be Picasso on steroids. And Frank Palmer because the guy is a genius -

adlounge@tonychapman TELL me about it. He wore skull & crossbones belt yesterday. SO amazing #adlounge #artunexpected

TonyChapman He is one of the true personas of our industry.

TonyChapman@adlounge – sorry had a computer crash and lost the trail -

TonyChapman I am glad they didn’t hear me sing #artunexpected

adlounge@tonychapman Ok, I have to ask. What’s about this with u and singing?! Ad Lounge’s nxt event-Agency talent show? #adlounge #artunexpected

TonyChapman – never get me singing in public – or the shower – can’t even hum

TonyChapman@adlounge – computer crash. not sure what I missed – see you at the event – tell Roche to bring cash

TonyChapman@adlounge – make sure you come out and support this event, and Sketch a charity that makes people believe again, through creativity

adlounge@tonychapman I think that’s all we have time for today…. Sorry about the computer probs. It was fun tho’! #adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge We’ll be posting a transcript of this interview w @tonychapman shortly on http://bit.ly/18199a #adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge@tonychapman and followers, Stay tuned on May 26 3pm EDT for our TwitterVIEW w @leelefever #commoncraft #adlounge #artunexpected

Filed under: Ad Lounge News, Content & Updates, Live Twitter Interviews, adlounge, advertising, artfromtheunexpected, ceo, charity, event, fundraiser, google, innovation, marketing, sketch, socialization, tonychapman, toronto, trinaboos

Frank Palmer plugs Ad Lounge!

Taken directly from Frank Palmer’s blog posting, Art with a Cause

Is creativity something strictly reserved for the creative department?

When Ad Lounge asked me to contribute an original piece of art to their fundraising event, “Art from the Unexpected”, I couldn’t resist the challenge. Ad Lounge has dared me and 19 other agency and marketing CEOs to create an original piece of art and present the concepts behind our creations at the event. On June 16th in Toronto, each CEO will be given one minute to present their art for auction; providing a fascinating glimpse into the creative minds of some of the industry’s leading business personalities.

It might surprise a few people to know that early in my career, I studied at the Emily Carr University of Art and Design in Vancouver. My painting for the auction, “Bloodsport,” depicts our current economic climate through the metaphor of a Bull and Bullfighter. Like a top marketer today, a Matador needs to be fit and fast in order to triumph and live.

I was drawn to participate in “Art From the Unexpected” because I welcomed the chance to return to my creative roots – and to support a unique and deserving cause.

Proceeds from the art auction will go to SKETCH; a Toronto charity that provides homeless youths with art studio space and supplies. DDB Canada has also lent its support to the charity auction by donating additional resources and by becoming the only agency Gold Sponsor.

I truly live each day being creative, which is why I see significant value in the artistic outlet that SKETCH provides. Creativity isn’t just a vital part of the advertising industry, it’s what gets me up and keeps me fresh and alive.

It’s also great to see an organization like Ad Lounge use entertaining ideas to rethink industry fundraising events and explore the nature of creativity.

If you’d like to know more, please follow me (@DDBFrank) being interviewed live on Twitter by Ad Lounge (@adlounge) on May 27th beginning at 8:30 a.m. PST.

Filed under: Ad Lounge Events, Ad Lounge News, Content & Updates, adlounge, advertising, art, artfromtheunexpected, canada, ceo, charity, ddbcanada, frankpalmer, fundraiser, fundraising, marketing, sketch, steamwhistle, toronto

Live twitterVIEW with Kevin McLaughlin, President, AutoShare

Kevin McLaughlin, AutoShare

As an advocate of AutoShare, I knew I had to approach Kevin McLaughlin when Ad Lounge was pitching the idea of getting CEO’s and marketing leaders to participate in Art from the Unexpected. I knew he had to have some big ideas to take AutoShare from what it was 11 years ago to what it is today.

And of course, our interview with Kevin demonstrates just that – Kevin’s big ideas, and his unique ability to grab ahold of them and shape them into something tangible and successful, that will benefit society as a whole. Read on for Kevin’s interview with Ad Lounge for a breath of fresh air.

adlounge@autoshare I have to say, Kevin. I’m pretty stoked to be interviewing U today. I’m TO’s biggest AutoShare fan #adlounge #artunexpected

AutoShare@adlounge Thanks! it’s one of the nice things about running AutoShare – People really love the service (smart local convenience).

adlounge@autoshare Founded in ’98 w only 16 members & 3 cars. Ten yrs later, 8000 members! I’m curious… #adlounge #artunexpected

AutoShare@adlounge I had co-founded @Evergreencanada and was looking for a ‘green idea’ that was market based….

adlounge@autoshare …Can U share w us the “Eureka” moment that planted the big idea? #adlounge #artunexpected

AutoShare@adlounge …and i came across car sharing in a ‘zine of sorts in 1994 (long before the web really broke)!….

AutoShare@adlounge …. and it seemed like a great way to help people ‘kick the car habit’, which is so hard!

AutoShare@adlounge A few years later I began with helpign to launch the http://Car.coop and then http://autoshare.com

adlounge@autoshare What are some changes U’ve seen in the past year in ppl’s attitudes twds cars and how R u adapting? #adlounge #artunexpected

AutoShare@adlounge The gas prices of last summer, plus Al Gore’s movie the year before, seem to have set things up for change…

AutoShare@adlounge … and I think that big problems with the car industry (although ‘recession-based’) are also a sign of the changes coming….

AutoShare@adlounge … which will include not only sharing cars, but sharing your trip in cars, taxis, and small buses. A revolution is underway…

AutoShare@adlounge check out also @rmchase for big ideas on transport-meets-the-future

adlounge@autoshare Thanks, Kevin. Will do. Great insight here! #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@autoshare How can orgs cont. 2 B innovative, current & creative at this time? #artunexpected #adlounge

AutoShare@adlounge A recession can be tough for business and young people starting out, but it also represents a change, and that means…

AutoShare@adlounge that there are opportunities. It’s a time to negotiate prices, work co-operatively (ie exchange services), and also a time when…

AutoShare@adlounge … some very talented people might have time on their hands to help start something. The bigger #autoshare gets, the more I…

AutoShare@adlounge … realize that it is all about our people. SO I think in this kind of biz environment, people can be more creative and explore..

AutoShare@adlounge …new ideas and projects.

adlounge@autoshare AMEN, I have to say it. SO inspiring and such a hopeful message, Kevin. Thank you! #artunexpected, http://bit.ly/6Gw2E #adlounge

adlounge@autoshare 4 those who don’t know, Kevin is 1 of the marketing leaders participating in #artunexpected, http://bit.ly/6Gw2E #adlounge

adlounge@autoshare I know our request to have u create an orig art piece was odd.What drew you to this challenge? #adlounge and #artunexpected?

AutoShare@adlounge Although I went to Queen’s biz school, and never make the time, I really enjoy being creative, and especially enjoy…

AutoShare@adlounge …having fun with a camera in low-light situations. I have many ideas for art work, and talk with my partner about them…

AutoShare@adlounge …(she is at OCAD), but just never get to them. So this was a chance – a DEADLINE – to actually make the time and have some fun

adlounge@autoshare UR piece was presented so beautifully. We’d love to hear about the story & inspiration behind it #adlounge #artunexpected

AutoShare@adlounge Thanks. When I came back to TO after years in Vancouver, I simply could not get over the sight of the huge red streetcars…

AutoShare@adlounge …moving through the city, especially along a street like College by the bars. It seemed so out of place, like an urban whale…

AutoShare@adlounge …and they have featured a lot in my photos and personal art. In many of my fav cities (vancouver, barcelona, montreal, rio)…

AutoShare@adlounge …I know where to send friends to see my favourite things. If in barcelona, don’t miss http://palaumusica.org/, but not in TO…

AutoShare@adlounge …until the awesome new OCAD building, which brings a smile to me everytime I pass. So I wanted to do something that mixed..

AutoShare@adlounge these things that I find so inspiring in TO, with transportation, the intensity I find in low-light photos, and acrylic….

AutoShare@adlounge …which my partner has a passion for too, and she helped me with on this project.

adlounge@autoshare Out of 20 participants’ work http://bit.ly/6Gw2E, is there any piece u look fwd 2 seeing? Why? #artunexpected #adlounge

AutoShare@adlounge I look forward to seeing both of the Heaps bros. work, as my time #evergreencanada and now #autoshare has mirrored the rise…

AutoShare@adlounge … of their locally committed businesses. I do recognise some fo the more established names – Frank Palmer is a legend – …

AutoShare@adlounge … and liked his work in the Globe last weekend. I am mostly interested in being VERY surprised and inspired (by the unexpected!)

adlounge@autoshare #artunexpected gives ppl a chance to see a diff side of u. Any other “did you know” facts ppl should know? #adlounge

AutoShare@adlounge I am a bit of an inventor, and have several ideas for bike accessories (but need some help in the metal shop!)…

AutoShare@adlounge …I once ran for public office (Parks Board, Vancouver 1996) … and hope to retire to run a ‘dog camp’ on a farm one day.

AutoShare@adlounge Oh, and I have hourly access to over 200 cars, but don’t own one myself.

adlounge@autoshare – Exceptional! Well, I think that’s all from us, Kevin. Thx 4 taking the time. What a great twitterVIEW #artunexpected. #adlounge

AutoShare@adlounge Thanks! My first, and fun!

adlounge@autoshare We’ll be posting a transcript of this interview w @autoshare shortly on http://bit.ly/18199a #adlounge #artunexpected

Filed under: Ad Lounge News, Content & Updates, Live Twitter Interviews

Live “twitterVIEW” with Geoffrey Roche, CCO and Founder of Lowe Roche.

Geoffrey Roche, CCO of Lowe Roche

Ad Lounge has the once in a lifetime opportunity to interview Mr. Geoffrey Roche, CCO at Lowe Roche through twitter. Geoffrey is participating in Ad Lounge’s “Art from the Unexpected” on June 16th at the Steam Whistle Brewery.

We had some hiccups initially, getting set up on twitter. But we quickly figured ourselves out and those patiently following along were treated with some great content and some very head-turning statements from Geoffrey. He’s known for his unconventional approach, and some of that really came out in our interview with him.

adlounge@geoffreyroche A lot of our followers R excited 4 this twitterVIEW today. Thx 4 making URself avail to us, Geoffrey #adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge@geoffreyroche Let’s talk about the current landscape as U see it. What R clients demanding from agencies today? #adlounge #artunexpected

geoffreyroche@adlounge The truly unexpected in all forms of “media” and in a way that works 4 that media

adlounge@geoffreyroche What’s changed in how UR hiring people today, as compared to 1 yr ago? (suits & creatives alike?) #adlounge #artunexpected

geoffreyroche@adlounge Hires have 2 be hip to all forms of media and have actually built sites, done real stunts, Twitter? duh! and generally be more hip than me..

geoffreyroche@adloungeHah! and they still need 2 be great writers designers and thinkers. Every brief is a PR release and the work has 2 reflect that

adlounge@geoffreyroche Storytelling&creativity R the driving forces of the ind. Who R the best storytellers of our time? #adlounge #artunexpected

geoffreyroche@adloungeCreators of Entourage, Pixar, NYTimes writers, still Goodby and WandK and AKQA is doing some cool stuff

adlounge@geoffreyroche Love it. Quite the diverse set of examples there.

geoffreyroche@adlounge Diverse cause great story telling is sometimes dismissed cause of the source. Ever see Matilda? Great story telling in a kid flick

adlounge@geoffreyroche – I def agree – some of the best storytelling comes from the children’s classics and even the modern ones

adlounge@geoffreyroche 2 give context 2 my nxtQ’s,UR partic. in #artunexpected,http://bit.ly/6Gw2E, where the theme is “Erueka!” #artunexpected

adlounge@geoffreyroche What has been a defining “Eureka” moment in UR life? #adlounge #artunexpected

geoffreyroche@adlounge Eureka moment was 5 years ago diving in head first to embrace all the ways to reach consumers. Virgin work was a start. That and TT work…

geoffreyroche@adlounge Too many people are still stuck in old thinking and are old fashioned at the age of 25 cause they aren’t hip to what 15 year olds R doing

geoffreyroche@adloungeAlso R 4 kids keep me young and inspired. They woke me up and that was why I started DogBook with my son

adlounge@geoffreyroche – Scary to think that my 15 yr old cousin could be leading the way. heh..

adlounge@geoffreyroche What drew you to this initiative with #adlounge and #artunexpected? http://bit.ly/TFfzF

geoffreyroche@adlounge Loved the cause first and then the Hellish challenge of putting my personal work in front of Peers. Really smart, sick idea to get my Attn

adlounge@geoffreyroche Hah! U called me one day 2 say it’s one of the most intimidating things U’ve had to do. Explain #adlounge #artunexpected

geoffreyroche@adlounge You know that dream where you’re naked in the back of your classroom closet in Grade 3? Kinda like that. They eventually see it’s you..

geoffreyroche@adlounge I also think until you do more than just hand over $ to people and do things for them in your own time than you’re not really Canadian.

adlounge@geoffreyroche Nice! #adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge@geoffreyroche There’s a big trend right now in our ind. 2 give back 2 the community, volunteer, etc. Why now? #adlounge #artunexpected

geoffreyrocheWell it’s about time. Reality is that people are seeing first hand family, friends, co-workers out of a job and it’s a wake up call 4 them..

geoffreyroche@adlounge “There but 4 the grace of God go I” is the way I have always seen it. You have to reach down and lift people up w your own hands. It’s real.

adlounge@geoffreyroche That’s beautiful. U R part of #artunexpected, supporting a great cause, SKETCH http://bit.ly/11WhTP by creating an art piece

adlounge@geoffreyroche Ur piece shows off your voyeuristic side. What was the inspiration behind the masterpiece? #artunexpected #adlounge

geoffreyroche@adlounge Masterpiece?? Yikes! I just love the camera and how easy it is to observe people without them knowing and in this case looking at great Art

geoffreyroche@adlounge It was either this piece or a bunch of pictures of my shoes. Honest.

adlounge@geoffreyroche So modest! #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@geoffreyroche #artunexpected gives ppl a chance to see a diff side of u. Any other “did you know” facts ppl should know? #adlounge

geoffreyroche@adlounge I love fixing stuff around my house and cottage. All that Manly stuff and I also love nothing more than to have ppl to my home for a meal.

adlounge@geoffreyroche Oooh lala!.. #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@geoffreyroche I think that’s all we have time for today. One Q from a follower and then we’ll call it a day #artunexpected #adlounge

adlounge@geoffreyroche We have 1 Q from @alicetheblue …

adlounge@geoffreyroche Do U see the role of the art dir evolving?Is the trad. art director going the way of the dinasour? #artunexpected #adlounge

geoffreyroche@adlounge Afraid so. That said their skills R still needed and very rare.This is THE most exciting time EVER in the biz and you have 2 embrace…

geoffreyroche@adlounge that and jump in to every bit of the industry and be a student of each and every part as opposed to putting your head in a tree.

adlounge@geoffreyroche I think that’s all we have time for today….#adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge@geoffreyroche – Thx 4 taking the time 2 speak w/us, Geoffrey. It’s been a true pleasure. #artunexpected. #adlounge

adlounge@geoffreyroche We’ll be posting a transcript of this interview w @geoffreyroche shortly on http://bit.ly/18199a #adlounge #artunexpected

adlounge@geoffreyroche Stay tuned tomorrow as we interview @autoshare (9:30am) and @tonychapman (3:30pm) (EDT) #adlounge #artunexpected

Filed under: Ad Lounge News, Content & Updates, Live Twitter Interviews

Ad Lounge twitterVIEW schedule

For the next couple of weeks, Ad Lounge is conducting live “twitterVIEWS” with various industry leaders. Please follow @adlounge to check in on the action.

The schedule is as follows:

- 20 May, 9:30 am – Geoffrey Roche, Founder & Chief Creative Officer @ Lowe Roche (@geoffreyroche)
- 21 May, 9:30 am – Kevin McLaughlin, President @ AutoShare (@autoshare)
- 21 May, 3:30pm – Tony Chapman, CEO @ Capital C (@tonychapman)
- 26 May, 3 pm – Lee Lefever, Founder @ CommonCraft (@leelefever)
- 27 May, 11:30 am – Frank Palmer, Chairman & CEO @ DDB Canada (@ddbfrank)
- 28 May, 9:30 am – Dave Stevens, General Manager @ MySpace (@myspacecanada)
- 29 May, 10:30 am – Mia Wedgbury, President @ High Road Communications (@miawedgbury)

For a summary of past live “twitterVIEWS” – http://bit.ly/xvz4T

Filed under: Ad Lounge News, Content & Updates, Live Twitter Interviews

This Week’s Digital Digs

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Ad Lounge Presents Digital Digs Brought to you by Capital C
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05.19.09\\\\
Capital C’s Digital Digs – A digest of what’s new and emerging in marketing, technology and strategy.
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How the Next Internet Revolution Will Save Your Favourite TV Shows, Newspapers and Magazines
Television’s in denial. The only thing that has kept audiences glued to the screen is the fact that most people don’t know which wire to plug into the back of the TV to get internet on their screens. But all that’s about to change as more people are buying new, Internet ready televisions. Because of this, there’s a real danger that audiences will drift, advertisers will follow and traditional TV will crumble and decay. Saving the Dinosaurs
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How to Use the Predictive Value of Buzz
Online buzz (or lack of it) can predict future sales and help you change your marketing before it’s too late, according to a blog post called “People are Talking” (linked to in this article). What All the Buzz is About
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Kindle Publishing Now Open To All Blogs
Earlier this week, Kindle made it possible for anyone to have their blogs available via Kindle Publishing for Blogs Beta. Now, the everyday blogger can put their thoughts out there for the masses to digest. And while Kindle is still in it’s infancy popularity wise, studies show that one day we likely will all own one (or something like it). Which means that any little blog could be the next big thing. More importantly (as if you thought we were maxed out) access to information will increase tenfold as well. Here We Grow
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Student Hoaxes World’s Media on Wikipedia
When Dublin university student Shane Fitzgerald posted a poetic but phony quote on Wikipedia, he said he was testing how our globalized, increasingly Internet-dependent media was upholding accuracy and accountability in an age of instant news. His report card: Wikipedia passed. Journalism flunked. Check Your Sources
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Is Your Organization An Umbrella or Mixing Bowl?
Organizations are facing some interesting new challenges when it comes to how they operate at a cultural level and how this manifests outside the walls of the entity. David Armano looks at two simple ways of thinking about this. Simple Thoughts that Work
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I Could Never Take the Place of Your Man
Can Ford ever let their social media evangelist, Scott Monty go? Of the top 100 brands on Twitter, Ford is the only one that connects to an individual. What will happen if he decides to pack up and cut his ties with Ford? Can anybody do what he does now that he’s done it so well and has become so ironically connected to the brand he calls home? David Gillespie lends his insight. Who’s Doing Well? The Company or the Employee?

Filed under: Ad Lounge News, Content & Updates, Digital Digs

The Globe and Mail covers Ad Lounge

Ad Lounge in the News

Filed under: Ad Lounge Events, Ad Lounge News, Content & Updates, adlounge, artfromtheunexpected, canada, charity, ddbcanada, event, frank palmer, fundraiser, fundraising, gala, Globe and Mail, Globeandmail, ontario, sketch, toronto, trinaboos