Journalists are going to be just fine. I know this not only from the content of the presentations during the 2013 edition of TEDxPoynter, but from the smiles and banter of the audience. This was my third TED conference at Poynter, once again successfully conducted by Ellyn Angelotti, (congratulations on that JD Ellyn!) The theme, Discovering the Future of Media brought together what I believe were the best presentations I've seen at this annual event. Although lesser known, the content from this group of presenters was at the forefront of where media and journalists are headed. What I didn't see this year was the look of frustration and despair on the faces of attendees. Gone was the feeling that journalists are an endangered species. This conference demonstrated their acceptance of the convergence of technology and journalism. The best example of leveraging the power of technology came from Professor Pat Aufderheide of the School of Communication at American University. Her presentation, Making Copyright Your Friend included an announcement and live website launch for her new resource for Journalists. In Reporter's Robotic Replacements, Professor Matt Waite of the University of Nebraska demonstrated a shift from drone strikes in the news to handheld drones that are helping journalists report the news. The presenters showed a healthy sense of humor about the state of the media by referring to their competition as images of restaurant food on Pinterest. Jessica Bennett turned tears into laughter with "I Was Going To Talk About How Tumblr Was The Future Of Journalism. Then I Got Laid Off." It was the only presentation where the title alone came close to exceeding TEDs 18 minute time limit. I saw the same look in the eyes of the attendees that I've seen when working with clients. It's what you see when a friend of the family leaves the hospital, headed for home. They may not be a 100%. They may be facing a period of rehab. But the smile on their face let's you know they are headed in the right direction. All I can say is "Glad you're back!". I remember experiencing the familiar stages of grief while serving on the National Speakers Association, Professional Development Council. Just the mention of Webinars, Audio Conferences and Podcasts produced flop sweat in those who thought live presenters we headed toward oblivion. NSA is stronger than ever, but only because professional speakers have leveraged technology to enhance and expand their delivery offerings instead of replacing live presentation.

Insight

From the moment my brother found my on the Internet almost 20 years ago, I learned that the Internet is not about technology, it's about connecting with people. Journalists are starting to believe. Do you? My belief in Twitter was reaffirmed once again. If you want to hang out with journalists, hang out on Twitter.

Other News from TEDxPoynter

I'm happy to report my part in helping the Poynter Institute uncover a new funding source. Professor Roy Peter Clark now has a Tip Jar to adorn his piano as he delivers thoughtful edutainment during institute events. Play it again Roy!