In this installment, Allen and Mike discuss commerce and community, two essential forces driving the evolution of podcasting. 

We address these issues through the lens of Podshow, the well-funded venture headed by Adam Curry and Ron Bloom. 

Mike is somewhat circumspect during this discussion as some parts of the Podshow story are still under wraps. 

A year ago, I started the project that has manifested itself in this Website, an odd assortment of media thoughts, rich media content (Podcasts and Videoblogs) and a bunch of other notions. This site has allowed me to grow in my knowledge of how things work and how they can be applied to new opportunities.

The next step in my growth has two components: 1) We (Mike McGuire and I) have to make our MADCasts sound better. I’ll match our content against any other technology Podcast on the Web, but the sound quality…well…is less than desirable (I am being polite). If we are able to up our production game, I think we could have more widespread recognition. 2) I want to create a few five-to-seven “TV programs.” Along those lines, we are fairly far along in turning our garage into a TV studio (it’s a little chilly out there, though) and I have my next video camera lined up. I have two workable ideas for programs and am close to “storyboarding” them. The year of shooting videoblog segments along with some previous experience in producing and hosting a cable TV program called “On Video” (circa 1987-1988) allows me the visualize my new “programs.”

I think the five-to-seven minute format will be the next great thing. It allows for two or three commercials (one pre roll, one at the end and maybe one on the middle) and tells a good story. It’s the right length to be viewed in real time, downloaded and enjoyed on an iPod or viewed in the workplace for someone wanting a quick break or diversion. As much I don’t believe in the mobile phone as a viewing medium, this length will also work in that venue.

I have no time frame for my first segment of my first program. I hope to have at least one done by the end of January. Stay tuned.