BWB Welcomes TV Land as a Sponsor
We have some exciting news to announce. We are welcoming, for first time, TV Land to the Blogging While Brown Sponsor Family. They will be screening The Soul Man! Welcome to BWB!
Attendee Spotlight: Eva Greene-Wilson from SocaMom.com
Our Attendee Spotlight is:
Eva Greene-Wilson who's blog is SocaMom.com...because Motherhood is CAH-NEE-VAL!
What do you hope to experience at BWB 2013?
Last year I had such an amazing experience in Philadelphia, that I just hope to experience that plus some! I would love to meet new bloggers and speakers, and reconnect with those that I met at Blogging While Brown last year. I also hope that the sessions will spark some new ideas to make my blog even better for my readers.
Why did you decide to start a blog?
Once I became a parent, and started meeting other parents, I realized that my style of parenting was different because I was brought up in a Caribbean household. I decided to start this blog to share resources for parents with roots in the Caribbean who are raising their children outside of the West Indies. I believe that giving children and parents access to their roots truly empowers and inspires them.
Are there specific types of bloggers you are interested in connecting with at the conference?
I am interested in meeting all types of bloggers at Blogging While Brown this year. I went last year with no profile of the type of blogger I'd be looking to connect with in mind, and met some amazing people, some of whom I have brunch with every month now! You just never know who you'll meet - that's part of the adventure.
What are your top blogging tips for other bloggers?
My top blogging tip for other bloggers is to check the demographics of your visitors, and check it often. Knowing your audience is key to attracting sponsors, cultivating partnerships, and creating content that speaks your mind and speaks to your readers as well.
Where do you see you and your blog in 5 years?
In the next five years, I hope to be the first place that parents go to find resources to help them connect their children to Caribbean culture and history. For parents who don't know where to start when introducing their Caribbean roots to their children, the games and coloring sheets have been really helpful.
Do you need something from your fellow bloggers to take your blogging to the next level?
To take my blogging to the next level, I just need my fellow bloggers to take a moment to remember me, and I'll try my best to do the same. When someone brings up parenting, culture, homeschooling, or the Caribbean (or all of the above), I would want my fellow bloggers to mention to them that they know a blogger who shares information on those subjects, and then direct them to my blog.
Do you have something to offer bloggers to help them take their blogging to the next level?
I'm a huge "do it yourself" person when it comes to my blog. I am the graphic designer, the programmer (when the husband is busy), the photographer, the videographer, the recruiter, the editor, the everything. I can share with bloggers tools, tips, and tricks that have worked for me, and saved me time, energy, and money, without compromising quality.
Attendee Spotlight: Shimira Williams from Productivity, LLC
Our Attendee Spotlight is:
Shimira Williams who's blog is Productivity LLC
What do you hope to experience at BWB 2013?
I hope to engage in more networking opportunities, expand my social media toolbox and have a little fun.
Why did you decide to start a blog?
I was frustrated answering the same questions from people. I thought a blog would be perfect to house and share all the information I know about technology.
Are there specific types of bloggers you are interested in connecting with at the conference?
I'm interested in connecting with technology and STEM education bloggers.
What are your top blogging tips for other bloggers?
Be consistent - Write frequently enough that your audience continues to come back to blog.
Content is queen/king - Good content is key with so many bloggers you have to offer quality content.
Keep your layout clean and responsive
Where do you see you and your blog in 5 years?
In five years, the goal for my blog is to be a resources for small businesses and non profits when establishing or updating their online presence as well as seeking tips for technology to improve their productivity in their personal or professional life.
In five years I hope that blogging is a natural part of my day and that people are asking me to blog for them because I'm an expert in establishing a solid online presence with accountable ROI (Return on Investment).
Do you need something from your fellow bloggers to take your blogging to the next level?
Yes, more information about branding and engaging my audience. I'm an introvert and would love to be break out my shell online because I love technolgy and sharing information. I've been following @drgoddess and @smallbizlady for tips but I need more.
Do you have something to offer bloggers to help them take their blogging to the next level?
I'm adept in technology infrastructure, assisting people an organization's with developing a stable online presence platform. I can assist people in securing domain names, web-hosting services, implementing an email at their domain, set-up social networks and blogs. I'm a HootSuite Certified professional.
Your 2013 Panel Descriptions
Stop Thinking Like a Blogger and Think Like a Business!
This session focuses on:
Inspiring bloggers to think bigger
Breaking down misconceptions about turning your blog into a business
Drawing contrast between how most bloggers think vs. how successful business owners think
Providing action Items on how bloggers in attendance can create more customers and make more money
Online Energy, Offline Synergy: How Creating Content Online Can Create Financial Opportunities Offline
This panel will discuss ways in which your blog can generate opportunities that are
profitable outside of the traditional ad revenue model. So many people go into blogging
thinking once they get a loyal following the advertisers will come a ʻknocking. Iʼm one of
those bloggers and I still havenʼt made more than $25 through advertising on my blog
and Iʼve been blogging regularly for over 5 years and get almost 10,000 hits a month. I
have, however, as a direct result of the content on my blog, been able to secure a
number of deals offline which have been quite substantive including speaking
engagements, magazine features, and a great social media consulting gig for a major
NYC museum. Blogging isnʼt all about the ad dollars as a matter of fact Jodie and I will
tell you that itʼs not really about the ad dollars at all. Itʼs about flipping your online
presence to make money off line in other creative synergistic mediums.
1. If you don't have advertising on your blog can your blog still be a profitable platform?
2. What kinds of professional opportunities can a blog create for a blogger?
3. What are the three things your blog/ social media platform needs in order to turn data
into dollars?
4. How do you use your blog's popularity and buzz to secure deals with magazine
editors, consumers, book publishers, etc? What do these deals look like?
5. What's the key to making YouTube videos that go viral and create sales for
products?
When Keeping It Real Goes Real Wrong!
Imagine a place where creative thought trumps law and your ability to have an opinion supersedes that of precedence and slander. Sounds like an amazing world, huh? The fact is, it doesn't exist, and sometimes bloggers end up on the short end of stick.
Enter, lawyer. A lawyer that has built a platform on education creative thinkers and brands on how to maintain integrity, produce authentic opinion and to protect themselves. The reality of it is, laws are changing. The "win/loose" , "right/wrong", "I say what I want to say" era is out the door and bloggers need to arm themselves on what it takes to make it in this business, and to win.
In one session we will get to the root of it all - no fluff here. We will discuss lawsuits, deformation, protecting your content, and more. No question will be to raw and I will give you the tips the clients usually pay for.
The reality of it is, a candid conversation with an informed lawyer can mean the difference between suing and being sued. Blogging is a business and businesses create brands. It's the steps that you take today that can leave you to focus on what you're meant to do - and that's blogging. So let me help you get back to focusing on what matters. After all, you know what they say in the blogger world.. "You're only as good as your last post".
1. What is defamation, what does it have to do with blogging and why even I need to fact check?
2. What's the 411 on endorsements and product reviews and what will definitely get you sued?
3. Why protecting content is important and why other people can sometimes steal your stuff?
4. Why the fine print matters and what the advertiser doesn't want to tell you, but I will.
5. How your big mouth can get you in trouble if you are not careful?
Beyond Facebook & Twitter: Using Google Plus, Pinterest and Instagram to maximize pageviews & ad sales
Many bloggers, small businesses and new websites are nervous about exploring new
social media platforms. Many will place a Facebook or Twitter account link on their sites
and engage audiences and customers that way only. However, there is more benefits in
being a "first adopter" in other platforms that are widely becoming more popular:
Pinterest, Google Plus and Instagram.
The benefits of doing so is they become the first in their area or market to establish a
brand presence and until the larger outfits come aboard (after going up the ladder for
approval).
1. What are the benefits and negatives of each of these platforms?
2. Who are doing good jobs and what are they doing? Can your site replicate that
model?
3. What are the time constraints involved with adding more social media platforms to
your already strained plate?
4. Can I have a step by step primer on how to incorporate these new platforms?
5. Do these platforms reach different markets or audiences than are on Facebook or
Twitter?
Blogging for the love of the blog
1.) Strategies for staying motivated to blog regularly or in the face of criticism from
family, friends, colleagues that blogging that doesnʼt generate income is a waste of time.
Hint: The first (and only) person you have to convince that blogging is worthwhile is
yourself.
2.) Tips for blogging for the love of it that can lead to compensation and to other social
and traditional media opportunities.
3.) Tips for finding your tribe of like-minded bloggers and readers, to form a support
network, not an echo chamber.
1. What is the difference (is there a difference) between a writer, a blogger and an
author?
2. What do I do if no one is reading my blog? How do I stay motivated?
3. How do I stay true to the initial intent of my blog when only certain topics are popular?
4. What should I (or even should I) advertise on my blog?
5. How do I build a community of faithful readers?
When Keeping It Real Goes Real Wrong!
Imagine a place where creative thought trumps law and your ability to have an opinion
supersedes that of precedence and slander. Sounds like an amazing world, huh? The
fact is, it doesn't exist, and sometimes bloggers end up on the short end of stick.
Security, Privacy and Safety Tips for your Wordpress Blog
This presentation will discuss basic security configurations and setting Wordpress
bloggers should implement to ensure the security, privacy and safety of their blog site
using Wordpress. The discuss will discuss the common attacks and how to protect and
recover from them. Lastly, a discuss on tools and plug-in to help protect your blog will
be conducted. To conclude with an open discussion.
The nature of Wordpress and why it is vulnerable to attacks?
What configurations you can use to secure your Wordpress blog?
What plug-ins you can use to secure your Wordpress blog?
The results of being hacked?
Where to get help if this goes really bad?
10 Ways to Turn Your Blog Writing from Basic to Brilliant
Starting a blog is free and easy. Itʼs a terrific venue for someone with a passion or a
strong expertise or something important to say. But put all that together and you still
donʼt have a great blog until youʼre producing stellar, compelling blog posts—posts that
captivate people and make them followers.
A lot of people have the passion, the expertise, the “something important” part down.
Theyʼve got terrific information to share, but the product theyʼre producing isnʼt going to
get picked up for season two, if you will. This quick session, taught by a former
Essence editor turned journalism professor—will give you easy-to-remember, easy-touse
pointers for making your writing more polished, more compelling, more real. Great
content is still the best way to impress potential funders, excite advertisers and keep
your readers coming back.
How can I make the writing sound like me—and appeal to my followers?
How can I make my blog posts (including video scripts, sound bites) sound more
polished?
How can I keep posts tight, but full of good info?
How can I structure my posts for ease of search and navigation?
How can I find something relevant to say post after post?
Blogger vs. Wordpress.com: Which blogging platform is for you? How to make the
switch?
Many first time bloggers start blogging on a free platform like Blogger, but quickly realize
that if they want to grow their audience and build their brand they may need to switch to
a hosted version of WordPress.
So where do they begin?
Note: Although this can be done in 15 min I would really prefer 30 min [20 min for
discussion and 10 min for Q&A].
1. How to determine if you need to make the switch? Specific reasons and scenarios to
aide in making final decision.
2. What are the major differences between the platforms and some pros and cons?
Reviews the major differences between the free platforms and paid hosting, with
examples of both.
3. How to purchase and choose a domain name?
Highlight 2-3 vendors and walk through the process.
4. How to evaluate setup hosting a hosting account?
Highlight 2-3 vendors and walk through the process as well as, installing WordPress
using cPanel.
5. How to switch from Blogger to hosted WordPress. Installing WordPress with step-bystep
directions for non-techies and plugins which will aide in the transition.
Review all plugins needed to make the switch. Highlight theme vendors with easy to
configure settings and other additional resources.
(I will also prepare a handout with all associated notes, links and resources mentioned
during the mini session).
Ten Easy Steps to ʻHackproofʼ Your Wordpress Installation and Backup Your Site
When your WordPress blog has been hacked you feel helpless, violated and defeated.
Become empowered by preparing yourself before it happens. This session will educate
you on 10 easy ways to prevent being hacked, offer steps to get your site back online if
you have already been hacked and teach you how to backup your website (server files
and database) to a secure location.
Note: Although this can be done in 15 min I would really prefer 30 min [20 min for
discussion and 10 min for Q&A].
1. Have you been hacked? How to recognize the signs. Inform visitors on the common
types of ways WordPress blogs get hacked and show examples.
2. Who to contact after you have been hacked? Give them the first steps of how to get
your blog back online and who to contact first.
3. Ten steps to prevent being hacked, which include an introduction of free and paid
plugins/services that help monitor your website.
4. How to install and understand Google Webmaster tools.
5. How to setup backup your site weekly via Dropbox
Bonus: How to remove and prevent spam commenters on your blog.
Starting a Business While Working Full-time
So many people want to branch out into the world of entrepreneurship, but have to
work full-time. This presentation will show you the most effective way to launch a
business while having a career.
1. What kind of business should I launch?
2. What are the first steps I need to take to establish the business
3. How do I manage both my full-time job and my new business
4. How do I launch and promote my new venture
5. The role of social media in your business
Cross-border Conundrums: Being An International Black Blogger
As a Black Canadian blogger, I feel that it would be important to highlight the particular
issues that international Black bloggers face. Differing acceptances and expressions of
race and ethnicity, varying populations of Black readers, intricacies of working with
brands and bloggers based in the US, and engaging readers that may not be located in
your home country are all areas that I have found to be quite interesting/challenging as
a Black blogger. For instance, I have learned to navigate engaging my readers who are
primarily American, even though I am based in Toronto. Also, working with brands
based in the US has required me to utilize different tactics than American bloggers may
use. Though this is a particular niche, I feel it is worthwhile to highlight these things in
order to facilitate better communication with Black American bloggers and brands, and
also to show what Black bloggers outside of the US are doing and experiencing. I would
be speaking from a primarily Black Canadian perspective, but would include
perspectives of other international hubs as well.
Ideas for discussion include:
1. What are the challenges of being a non-American Black blogger?
2. How can international Black bloggers engage readers that may not be based in their
home country? How can they engage more readers in their home country?
3. How can (or should) international bloggers work with American brands?
4. How do varying differences in race relations affect non-American Black bloggers?
5. How can American and non-American Black bloggers work together?
The A to Z of Publishing an E-Book
More bloggers are turning to ebooks as another way to publish material and elevate
their brand. But do they really know EVERYTHING about ebooks, from publishing to
marketing one?
B is Bowker. I is for ISBN. K is for Kindle. V is for Vook. S is for Smashwords. T is for
Trailer. In a fast paced 15 minute presentation, I will address 26 different words (A to Z)
all related to ebook publishing. Once a blogger knows and understands all 26 terms,
they'll be ready to embark on the process of producing an ebook.
1) What platforms can you used to publish your E-book without engaging an expensive
designer?
2) What platforms or apps can you use to market your book?
3) What are the different options in publishing an ebook on Amazon?
4) What platforms can you use to promote your book?
5) What does your book have to have to be an official publication?
Keep it Movinʼ : Mobilizing Your Blog and Your Brand
In our age of instant access to information via smartphones and tablets, a blogger
looking to expand his/her reach should be ensure that their content looks good on a
mobile device. Our session will first help bloggers understand why it's important to have
a mobile-friendly blog and how to accomplish this task - no coding involved.
Not only should people be able to connect to your blog wherever they go, but they
should be able to connect with your brand wherever you are and wherever attributes of
your brand are. We will then ensure that once your blog is mobilized, you understand
how to create doorways for your brand to walk through.
Why your blog should be mobile-friendly
What are the best ways to make your blog mobile-friendly
How to monetize your mobile-friendly blog
How to translate “you” into your blogʼs brand, wherever you go
How to turn your brand equity into a “leash”
Turning your brand up to 11 with a Podcast
Scott Hanselman and Luvvie Ajayi are two very different bloggers with two very different voices. However, they've each extended their voices beyond their blog with the addition of their joint podcast "RatchetAndTheGeek." We'll talk about all the tools you'll need to start a podcast. What kinds of mics, were to host, how to edit, finding a jingle, copyright issues, getting in iTunes, things to remember, promoting your podcast and more! Later, join Luvvie and Scott has they record an episode LIVE then edit, produce and post the show while you ask question!
QUESTIONS WE WILL ANSWER
Is starting a podcast hard? Expensive?
How can a podcast expand my brand?
Where do I promote my podcast?
What equipment do I need?
Does sound quality matter?
Diversity: Unpacking the Supply and Demand Side of Diversity
I have a mantra about diversity:
If you want to achieve diversity...in your work force, speaking roster, audience, etc., you
need to:
1. Value it
2. Prioritize it
3. Ask for help to achieve it
Be the Demand.
But the other side of this equation is for all of us who represent diversity. We need to:
1. Value our worth so much that the word token becomes meaningless
2. Prioritize being the change so much that we put ourselves out there. Over and over.
3. Offer help...by bringing others along with us, or recommending others in our place.
BlogHer sets measurable goals for diversity, and the truth is that it's *not that hard*. So
let's talk about the decidedly *not* rocket science of getting more diverse perspectives.
1. What is the data about the value of diverse perspectives?
2. What are some of the common excuses for lack of diversity, and why are they
mythical?
3. What is BlogHer's methodology to find and secure diverse talent for its initiatives?
4. What should you do if you're given an opportunity because you will bring diversity to
the table?
5. Why is it as important to feature "new" voices as it is "diverse" voices?
Blogging For Your Organizational Voice
Members in any communications department work behind the scenes to uplift the voices of leadership on organizational priorities and agendas. This panel will address how to work behind the scenes of the blogosphere and manage organizational, individual voices and levels of influence for social change.
1. What is your role as message controller and content creator on a traditional communications team?
2. How can you use the blogosphere to open a dialogue on political and social issues impacting readers through another person's voice?
3. How can you use traditional communications strategy and digital media best practices to uplift issues specific to your organizations agenda?
4. Pitching, how can you establish relationships outside of your branded tools?
6. Words or images? When is it appropriate to use or pitch videos, images, infographics or commentary?
BlogGot a Blog? Protect Your Brand in Cyberspace.
While bloggi
ng for business it is particularly important that bloggers understand
intellectual property: how to protect their rights, how to avoid infringement on the rights
of others and, and how to use intellectual property to monetize their brand online.
How do I use social media to maximize exposure for my blog while minimizing the risk
of infringement?
How do I monitor my brand online?
Someone stole my ish! How does the law protect me and what are the steps that I
should take?
What are my copyright protections? Poor man's copyright....is it true?
How can I use intellectual property to build my blogging business?
Crowdfunding your Creative Project: Advice From 3 Kick-Ass Women On Using Kickstarter
In this no holds barred presentation, Kiratiana, Kaneisha, and Evita, who raised $5000,
$11,000, and $15,000 respectively on Kickstarter, will provide candid advice and secrets
for success for crowdfunding the money you need to bring your masterpiece to the
masses, be it a book, a web series, or a cross-country tour. The bloggers will share their
best advice and lessons learned using Kickstarter, the hottest tribe-activating tool
available to creators with something to share.
1. What are the pros and cons to using Kickstarter vs. Indiegogo?
2. How do I know how much money to aim for?
3. How do I get the word out about my campaign besides tweeting and posting to
Facebook?
4. How do I get my campaign to go viral (meaning how do I get people I don't know
personally to contribute)?
5. How much is setting up and running a crowdfunding campaign going to cost me in
terms of time and money?
6. What are some pitfalls I need to watch out for with fulfillment of rewards?
7. How do I choose the reward levels and what to give away?
I'll Pin for Food
Over half of Pinterest user are interacting with food pins.This micro session will
demonstrate how brown bloggers are using Pinterest to enhance their brands. The goal
of this session includes highlighting brown Pinterest influencers.
Business of Blogging Schedule
Friday, June 21, 2013
8:30 - 9:15AM Registration and Light Breakfast
9:15 – 9:30AM Opening Remarks
9:30 – 10:20AM Stop Thinking Like a Blogger and Think Like a Business!
Lamar Tyler, Tyler New Media & BlackAndMarriedWithKids.com
10:30 – 11:20AM Online Energy, Offline Synergy: How Creating Content Online Can Create
Financial Opportunities Offline
Nicole Moore, theHotness.com
Jodie Patterson, GeorgiaNY.com
11:30 – 12:30PM Lunch
12:30 – 1:20PM When Keeping it Real Goes Wrong
Trezanay M. Atkins, The Brand Infringement Firm
1:30 - 2:20PM Brand Managers
2:30 – 3:20PM Blogs & Brands
Mary Pryor, Urbansocialista.com
Shante Bacon, Founder & CEO of the 135th Street Agency
3:30 – 4:00PM Closing Remarks
Friday, June 21, 2013
8:30 - 9:15AM Registration and Light Breakfast
9:15 – 9:30AM Opening Remarks
9:30 – 10:20AM Stop Thinking Like a Blogger and Think Like a Business!
Lamar Tyler, Tyler New Media & BlackAndMarriedWithKids.com
10:30 – 11:20AM Online Energy, Offline Synergy: How Creating Content Online Can Create
Financial Opportunities Offline
Nicole Moore, theHotness.com
Jodie Patterson, GeorgiaNY.com
11:30 – 12:30PM Lunch
12:30 – 1:20PM When Keeping it Real Goes Wrong
Trezanay M. Atkins, The Brand Infringement Firm
1:30 - 2:20PM Brand Managers
2:30 – 3:20PM Blogs & Brands
Mary Pryor, Urbansocialista.com
Shante Bacon, Founder & CEO of the 135th Street Agency
3:30 – 4:00PM Closing Remarks
Attendee Spotlight: Sister Stephanie from The Sister Source
Our Attendee Spotlight is:
Sister Stephanie who's blog is The Sister Source.
What do you hope to experience at BWB 2013?
Network with more experienced bloggers; learn more about SEO; learn more about how to get followers/readers; and meet potential contributors.
Why did you decide to start a blog?
I wanted to be a voice for women of color that are so often overlooked in the policy landscape.
Are there specific types of bloggers you are interested in connecting with at the conference?
women, political bloggers
What are your top blogging tips for other bloggers?
It is good to see learn from more experienced blogers. Take your time and do it right.
Where do you see you and your blog in 5 years?
Hopefully a major player in the policy scene---a place where national political candidates will come to 'court' women of color/.
Do you need something from your fellow bloggers to take your blogging to the next level?
Advice!
Do you have something to offer bloggers to help them take their blogging to the next level?
I am knowledgeable and connected to policy issues concerning children, youth and families. Can share what I know in a very accessible way so that people of color can, especially women, can learn how to be better self-advocates.
This is Sister Stephanies's first time at BWB ! Welcome !
Attendee Spotlight: Sarah L. Webb from S.L. Writes Courageous Content
Our Attendee Spotlight is:
Sarah L. Webb who's blog is S.L. Writes Courageous Content
What do you hope to experience at BWB 2013?
I hope to learn how to run my blog like a business and brand myself as a writer. I’m also looking forward to experiencing the fellowship of other bloggers, particularly bloggers of color. It’s my hope that I leave the conference with a lot of new friends and collaborators.
Why did you decide to start a blog?
When I started my blog, I was also teaching high school full time. The blog was a way for me to reclaim my identity as a writer, because I had been so consumed with education. After writing a few posts, reading a lot of material about how to blog, and getting feedback from readers, I realized that this medium of blogging could change the world, and was actually already changing the world. It was the platform I’d been waiting for most of my life to connect with people and help them by way of my writing and stories.
Where do you see you and your blog in 5 years?
In five years, I want S. L. Writes to be a job creator. I want to be able to support a small team of passionate writers and techies to help me cultivate courage around the world.
I’d also like SLW to be the central hub of my professional career, including books, speaking engagements, freelance work, etc.
What are your Top blogging Tips?
My top tip is to *love* blogging. Love the people you blog for and blog with. Love it with your whole heart, holding nothing back. Be open, authentic, transparent, and daring!
This is Sarah Webb's First BWB! Welcome!
Speaker Spotlight: Kiratiana Freelon
Who is Kiratiana Freelon? A travel expert, Olympic enthusiast, journalist, speaker, and author. Kiratiana first caught the travel bug as a 20 year-old college student studying abroad in Munich, Germany. After graduating from Harvard University with a bachelor’s degree in economics, she was awarded a prestigious fellowship that took her across West Africa, Brazil and Europe. Feeling the need to share her experiences and encourage others to engage in impactful cultural exploration while traveling, she authored her first travel focused book, aptly entitled, "Kiratiana’s Travel Guide to Black Paris: Get Lost and Get Found."
As an author, she has written for Jet Magazine, The Grio, BlackAtlas.com, Bonjourparis.com. As a journalist, she has covered the Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games in Beijing (2008) and London (2012). As an expert on exploring global culture, she has been featured in many prominent media outlets, including the New York Times, Black Enterprise, the Chicago Defender, NABJ Digital blog, and Black Web 2.0. And, as a speaker, she has presented at South by South West (SXSW), and Blogalicious.
Kiratiana's unique approach and perspective is catching the attention of various social media pundits, and just recently, her efforts in travel-focused digital media landed her on Black Enterprise’s list of "Top Black People in Tech to Follow on Twitter" and “Top Black Travelers to Follow on Twitter.” Kiratiana’s most recent venture is an eBook, launched in the spirit of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, entitled, "Kiratiana’s Travel Guide to Multicultural London." She launched a $6,000 Kickstarter campaign to support the project.
Kiratiana recently launched a tumblr, http://blackindiekick.tumblr.com/, which features Indiegogo and Kickstarter projects by black people or about black people.
Speaker Spotlight: Carolyn Edgar
Carolyn is a New York City attorney and writer who blogs about social issues, family issues and relationships on her self-titled blog, Carolyn Edgar (http://carolynedgar.com). She has contributed to publications including CNN.com and Huffington Post. Her media appearances include NPR’s “Tell Me More” with Tony Cox, The Michael Baisden Show (syndicated), The Al Butler Show on WURD 900 (Philadelphia, PA), and the podcast "Work Stew" hosted by Kate Gace Walton. Carolyn also co-hosts "The Black n Bougie Network" with author Michele Grant ofBlacknBougie.com.
Carolyn will be facilitating the workshop Blogging for the love of the blog along with Deesha Philyaw. Welcome!
Speaker Spotlight: Kellep Charles
Kellep is the creator and Executive Editor of SecurityOrb.com (@SecurityOrb), an information security & privacy knowledge-based website with the mission to share and raise awareness of the motives, tools and tactics of the hacker community, and provide best practices and counter measures against malicious events.
Kellep has appeared and made regular contributions to local media outlets such as PGCTV, WPGC 95.5 FM, Politc365.com, WPFW 89.3 and the examiner.com to discuss technology, security, and privacy matters.
Kellep works as a government contractor in the Washington, DC area as an Information Security Analyst with over 15 years of experience in the areas of incident response, computer forensics, security assessments, malware analyst and security operations.
Currently he is completing his Doctorate in Information Assurance at Capitol College with a concentration in Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and Human Computer Interaction (HCI). He also holds a Master of Science in Telecommunication Management from the University of Maryland University College and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from North Carolina Agriculture and Technical State University.
Kellep will be joining Blogging While Brown this Summer and facilitating the workshop Security, Privacy and Safety Tips for your Wordpress Blog. Welcome Kellep!
Speaker Spotlight: Trezanay M. Atkins
Trezanay M. Atkins is the creator of The Brand Infringement Firm, a law firm that helps pastors, entertainers, fashion designers, and athletes when they have to fight for how their name, talent, and brand should be used.
Before forming The Brand Infringement Firm, Ms. Atkins practiced in Los Angeles in the litigation departments of two international law firms, where she participated in all phases of litigation representing matters in the film industry. While attending law school, Ms. Atkins worked in the business and legal affairs department of CMG Worldwide, a leading intellectual property rights corporation, where she advised clients of their rights in trademark, copyright, and right of publicity. She also negotiated license agreements for the use of intellectual property in advertising, film, television, and radio usage. She also negotiated merchandising and endorsement agreements on behalf of clients. In addition to contract work, Ms. Atkins negotiated settlement agreements for infringements of property rights - saving clients thousands of dollars in legal fees by avoiding the courtroom.
Very active in professional organizations, Trezanay is currently a member of the American Bar Association, Entertainment and Sports Forum, Marion County Bar Association (MCBA), Black Entertainment and Sports Lawyers Association (BESLA), Black Women Lawyers of Los Angeles (BWL) and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.
Committed to service through community, faith and family Trezanay resides in Indiana. During her free time, Ms. Atkins performs music and enjoys the music of others. She is a classically trained vocalist. In addition to solo vocal performance, she has been a part of jazz, chamber, and gospel ensembles. It is her passion for music that drives her legal practice.
She is an active member in the religious community and is committed to serving churches, pastors, and other faith-based organizations in their business and intellectual property needs.
Trezanay will be presenting When Keeping It Real Goes Real Wrong! at Blogging While Brown. Welcome!
Speaker Spotlight: Luvvie Ajay
Luvvie Ajay is a writer, social media strategist and techie from Chicago. She's been blogging for 10 years, and is behind the award-winning pop culture and humor blog, AwesomelyLuvvie.com. Luvvie’s a former columnist for EBONY.com and has contributed her writing to Clutch Magazine and Uptown Magazine. She’s also winner of the Women’s Media Center 2012 Social Media Award.
Her background is in Communications and New Media, and as a social media strategist, she helps clients figure out how to use the various online tools to further their missions. She has presented at several conferences over the years on these topics. They include: The Nonprofit Technology Conference, BlogHer, AFTRA Broadcast Conference, Chicago Social Media Summit, and the Social Media For Nonprofits Conference, among others.
Luvvie is passionate about social justice and is addicted to shoes. She combined these loves and founded The Red Pump Project (Red Pump) with Karyn Watkins in March 2009. Red Pump is a national nonprofit organization that raises awareness about the impact of HIV/AIDS on women and girls, using red shoes! Their work has earned them a Congressional Record from the U.S. House of Representatives as well as recognition from the City of Chicago Council and much more.
Luuvie will be presenting the workshop "Turning your brand up to 11 with a Podcast" at Blogging While Brown this year.
Attendee Spotlight: Savvy Brown
Our Attendee Spotlight is on: Savvy Brown
What do you hope to experience at BWB 2013?
Networking, Affiliate Marketing, and blog monetization.
Why did you decide to start a blog?
I believe being healthy doesn't have to be complicated, being green can be easy, and being broke isn't an option. I wanted to share my continuing journey with others and get help along the way.
Are there specific types of bloggers you are interested in connecting with at the conference?
Green and tech bloggers.
What are your top blogging tips for other bloggers?
No post should be more than 800 words. Readers LOVE lists. Quality content will bring readers back repeatedly.
Where do you see you and your blog in 5 years?
Brand expansion into products, media, and books.
Do you need something from your fellow bloggers to take your blogging to the next level?
Blog monetization ideas.
This will be Savvy Brown’s first time at Blogging While Brown, so head over to her blog and share her some support!
Attendee Spotlight: Sister Stephanie of The Sister Source
Our Attendee Spotlight is on: Sister Stephanie of The Sister Source
What do you hope to experience at BWB 2013?
Network with more experienced bloggers; learn more about SEO; learn more about how to get followers/readers; and meet potential contributors.
Why did you decide to start a blog?
I wanted to be a voice for women of color that are so often overlooked in the policy landscape.
Are there specific types of bloggers you are interested in connecting with at the conference?
Women and political bloggers.
What are your top blogging tips for other bloggers?
It is good to see learn from more experienced bloggers. Take your time and do it right.
Where do you see you and your blog in 5 years?
Hopefully a major player in the policy scene---a place where national political candidates will come to 'court' women of color.
Do you need something from your fellow bloggers to take your blogging to the next level?
Advice!
This will be Sister Stephanie’s first time at Blogging While Brown, so head over to her blog and show her some support!
BWB Founder Gina McCauley on Black Enterprise March/April Cover!
Be sure to pick up the March/April issue of Black Enterprise to see Blogging While Brown founder Gina McCauley on the cover! Gina was chosen along with other “Leading Texas Tech” entrepreneurs to grace the cover of the magazine. Known to many in the tech field, Gina was handpicked because of her passion and commitment to Blogging While Brown! Black Enterprise is the premier business, investing, and wealth-building resource for African Americans. Since 1970, they have provided essential business information and advice to professionals, corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and decision makers.
Congratulations Gina!
To celebrate this cover feature we are offering a LIMITED OFFER on all ticket sales to the upcoming conference! Use the code “BECOVER” up until April 1 to receive $30 off tickets purchased for Blogging While Brown! So, what are you waiting for? Purchase your tickets today; this is a conference you don’t want to miss!
Attendee Spotlight: Toya Nicole from Ms. Travel Chic
Our Attendee Spotlight is:
Toya Nicole who's blog is Ms. Travel Chic
What do you hope to experience at BWB 2013?
Networking, how to monetize my blog, developing my personal brand and growing my audience.
Why did you decide to start a blog?
I am very passionate about travel. When I would take trips and post photos on my social media accounts I often had friends (mainly fellow brown girls) comment that they "wish" they could travel like me. I wanted to start a blog to show people that you can travel well in luxury accomodations (if desired) for affordable prices. I also think is important no matter your relationship or financial status to see the world and take a well earned vacation. African Americans dont travel as much as we should and its my hope through my experiences, tips and resources offered via my blog it will encourage them to travel.
Are there specific types of bloggers you are interested in connecting with at the conference?
Travel and Lifestyle bloggers.
What are your top blogging tips for other bloggers?
Be Authentic
Post consistently
Blog about what you are passionate about
Where do you see you and your blog in 5 years?
I would like to be a lifestyle and travel brand expert consulting and motivating black women to travel more. I would like my blog to be a resource for travel tips and resources. I would also like to offer branded "Ms. Travel Chic" travel products like luggage tags, t shirts and travel bags.
Do you need something from your fellow bloggers to take your blogging to the next level?
Tips on growing my audience and strengthening my brandThis is Ms. Travel Chic's first time at BWB ! Welcome !
Attendee Spotlight Valerie Lee from Cupcakes and Travel Magazines
Our Attendee Spotlight is:
Valerie Lee who's blog is Cupcakes and Travel Magazines.
What do you hope to experience at BWB 2013?
Meeting people and getting tips - I'm open to the entire experience
Why did you decide to start a blog?
To share my opinions and talk about the subjects that interest me...
This is Valerie Lee's first time at BWB ! Welcome !
Attendee Spotlight: Jay Blessed from JAYBLESSED.com
Our Attendee Spotlight is:
Jay Blessed who's blog is JAYBLESSED.com
What do you hope to experience at BWB 2013?
I was encouraged to attend Blogging While Brown 2013 by one of my fellow Caribbean bloggers, SocaMom. After researching more about BWB, plus the fact that it would be in my hometown of NYC, I was more than sold to the idea! I was inspired to invest in this opportunity of networking with other bloggers, expanding my knowledge on new technologies, traffic builders, maximizing SEO, in addition to, learning new platforms and processes for monetizing my website.
I want to reach my target audience, which not only consists of Caribbean nationals but lovers of Caribbean culture worldwide.
Why did you decide to start a blog?
In April 2011, I resigned from my full-time marketing job at a renowned law firm in NYC, after just one month of "test" blogging and decided to wholeheartedly invest my time and energy into my passion for media fusing the love I have for my Caribbean heritage.
It wasn't an easy decision but I had my husband (co-founder of JAYBLESSED.com) there to support, encourage and advise me on every move I made.
When I started my blog, there were many Caribbean websites which mainly consisted of forums and photo sites - outside of the news sources. Therefore, I decided to fill that void by bringing fresh, daily content; incorporating entertainment news, news, music, fashion, interviews and a healthy dose of celebrity gossip from all over the Caribbean and abroad into one place!
While the Caribbean has its own celebrities, a lot of celebrities that appear in mainstream and international blogs are also Caribbean or of Caribbean descent. Therefore, they also have a home on JAYBLESSED.com.
My writing style and delivery has definitely solidified my place in the blogosphere and helped me in building and maintaining a strong and loyal readership and fan base.
Are there specific types of bloggers you are interested in connecting with at the conference?
Specifically, I would love to connect with mainstream bloggers who have dominated in the category of entertainment news and technology.
What are your top blogging tips for other bloggers?
1. Stay informed on all things new to keep your content fresh and your readers coming back!
2. A blog is a beast that needs to be fed. Keep active, keep writing, keep posting! Keep your blog alive.
3. You can't be a successful blogger and not be involved in social media. Keep your audience engaged on multiple online platforms.
4. Use every opportunity to MARKET YOURSELF for you are your best source of advertisement.
5. A blog can be draining, therefore it is ok to take a break and even ask for help! It's sometimes necessary to walk away from your blog for a few hours to even a day to keep your mind, body and spirit renewed.
Where do you see you and your blog in 5 years?
WOW! In five years, JAYBLESSED.com would be the leader in Caribbean entertainment. We are presently grooming our platform into a successful international media brand encompassing Web, TV, Radio, Concerts, E-commerce and Lifestyle.
Do you have something to offer bloggers to help them take their blogging to the next level?
BWB is not only an African American conference, but one whose "brown" includes a number of Caribbean-bred bloggers like myself. I wear my Caribbean heritage as a badge of honor and my readers are just as loyal.
I can offer bloggers a different perspective on writing and understanding their specific audiences and targeting them through their online multimedia use.
Do you need something from your fellow bloggers to take your blogging to the next level?
I am in need of as much advice as I can possibly get! Though I have a handle on things, I am sure as I meet and converse with other bloggers, that they'll introduce me to new ways of writing, coding, promoting, organizing and even thinking!
As a blogger who started less than two years ago, there were many blogs before mine. However, none within the Caribbean niche market, specifically for the people interested in Caribbean entertainment news and Caribbean celebrity gossip.
This is Jay Blessed first time at BWB ! Welcome !
Attendee Spotlight: Miz KP from Sailing Autistic Seas
Our Attendee Spotlight is:
Miz KP who's blog is Sailing Autistic Seas.
What do you hope to experience at BWB 2013?
I hope to meet bloggers from around the country who can bring their personal insights on what it is like to be a blogger of color in this day and time. I hope to learn from them and get some great information to make my blog better.
Why did you decide to start a blog?
I created this blog because I believe that it will give me an opportunity to share my experiences with other parents who have children with special needs. I believe that parents learn best when we can share what we know and ask each other questions.
Are there specific types of bloggers you are interested in connecting with at the conference?
I am interested in connecting with bloggers who write about issues affecting people with special needs (especially minorities). I have not met many minorities who blog and are also parents of children with special needs.
This is totally unrelated to special needs issues but it would also be great to meet natural hair bloggers as well.
What are your top blogging tips for other bloggers?
Have an editorial calendar and write posts in advance when possible because stuff does come up when you are a working mom trying to maintain a blog as well.
Where do you see you and your blog in 5 years?
I see my blog as a destination for parents of children with autism and other special needs. I see it becoming a place where they come to often to get and share information.
This is MIZ KP's First time at BWB! Welcome
Which Badge Should I Purchase for Blogging While Brown 2013?
Which Badge Should I Purchase?
The Platinum Badge is an ALL ACCESS badge that get's you into every conference activity currently on the schedule or which may be added in the future. It is for a blogger who is serious about monetizing their platform and figuring out how to create a sustainable way to build and grow their blog. The Platinum Badge is the only way to attend the Business of Blogging Pre-Conference. Last year's Business of Blogging Session sold out, and this year's Business of Blogging is smaller to allow and even more vibrant exchange of ideas and networking opportunities. Check out the speakers from last year's Business of Blogging Session. Watch the video above to watch the Blogs & Brands panel featuring agency veterans Tyrha M. Lindsey, Managing Director for L.A.I. Communications, Jennifer Polk, a Vice President with Edelman Digital and Mananya Soobhawan, Digital Supervisor at Weber Shandwick as they explain best practices for bloggers who want to partner with brands.
Read what others have to say about the Business of Blogging.
- Chasing Joy - More Blogging Tips: Blogging While Brown
- '83 To Infinity- Blogging While Brown Pt. 1:The Business of Blogging
- The Root - The Root is Live From Blogging While Brown
- Carolyn Edgar - Blogging While Brown 2012
- Philadelphia Tribune - Blogging While Brown Draws the Best and Brightest
The Gold Badge is a great option for someone who is stretched for time and wants to fly in on Friday instead of Thursday. Or maybe you want to spend Friday morning exploring New York City. You gain access of all of the conference activities except the Business of Blogging session, including all of the conference parties and the Beginning Blogger Boot Camp along with all of the panels, keynotes and workshops on Saturday. You also have the option to appear in the Attendee Spotlight which will be featured on the Blogging While Brown website, Twitter feed and Facebook page.
The Saturday Day Pass gets you access to the keynotes and panels on Saturday, June 22, 2013.
What is the Business of Blogging?
The Business of Blogging Session is a gathering of aspiring and high-potential bloggers who want to gain skills to monetize their platforms and build a sustainable business model. BOB provides an exceptional opportunity for bloggers to to connect with other bloggers, brands, and industry professionals and develop the critical skills and relationships necessary for success as digital media content creators and social media influentials
The small size of Business of Blogging allows attendees to create deep relationships and develop critical business and leadership skills.
Who Should Attend?
Ideal attendees for the Business of Blogging are individuals who:
- are highly motivated to build a successful and financially sustainable online platform and have a passion for social media.
- want to develop relationships with a network of social media leaders for professional and personal benefit.
- are committed to building and expanding their platform using current best practices.
How Much Does it Cost?
Registration for the Business of Blogging is only available by purchasing a Platinum Badge which costs $250 until March 1, 2013 when the price increases. Space in the Business of Blogging session is limited to 55 participants and 10 mentors.
When is it scheduled?
The Business of Blogging Session is tentatively scheduled to begin on Friday, June 21, 2012 at 9:30AM and will end at 4:30PM. There will also be some type of informal "meetup" on Thursday night near the conference hotel for attendees that arrive the nigh before.