Jay Talks

How To Be A Digital Activist

2009-12-10T10:04:00.001+08:00

An Interview With The Globe's Top Digital Activist

There is something so special about this girl. Mary Joyce helped elect the first black US president. She swears she did not do it alone but her tireless efforts and perserverance in using social media tools as the New Media Operations Manager of the then Barack Obama Presidential Campaign really helped the Obama team in fund-raising and more importantly, in reaching out to the voters. She has also visited the Philippines recently as a speaker on digital activism.

How has social media changed the political landscape in the US? Around the globe?

It's allowing people to connect to each other at low cost and at massive scale, to share information and to create relationships. This significantly challenges traditional hierarchical power structures where only the rich and powerful could afford to coordinate and disseminate information on a large scale.

Tell us more what a digital activist does.

A digital activist uses digital technology as part of a campaign for social or political change.

Take us back to when YOU were starting DigiActive. What was YOUR original motivation in starting it?

I was really interested in digital activism but there was only limited information on the topic and few resources for activists. I wanted to change that.

We heard YOU turned down an offer to work for President Obama after helping him win last year, why did YOU turn it down?

At the end of the campaign when staffers were invited to submit their names to a hiring database I simply chose not to participate. I've always been interested in the grassroots and in having an international focus.

Who's the most active politician in the digital world today?

Probably still Barack Obama, though his online supporters have been much quieter since he was elected. It will be interesting to see what his campaign does in 2012.

How can social media tools empower today's citizens? Please give us an example if YOU can.

Build an outpost on the Internet - a blog, a Facebook group, a Twitter feed - then create content interesting to your target audience and help getting other media creators on the Internet to turn their audiences toward you. Then get your audience to invite their friends. That is the ideal path to growth. In this way anyone who can get online has the potential to start a movement.

Who's government today is maximizing social media tools to help their people?

Two examples that come to mind quickly are the US, which recently opened up a lot of its information through the site data.gov and the UK, which facilitates the creation of citizen petitions to the Prime Minister through Number10.gov.uk. I don't know if this directly helps people, but it does increase accountability.

If YOU were stuck with Chinese President Hu Jintao for one hour in an elevator, what would YOU say to him?

"You will forever be playing digital catch-up with your own citizens. Closing off information will only become harder as more circumvention are created and Internet users become more sophisticated. Create and implement a plan to gradually open to Internet on your own terms. Better to control the opening of your society than try to fight a losing battle to keep it closed."

If YOU could build YOUR own social networking site, what will make it different? What's unique about it?

I don't think the answer is to make something new. I think the answer is to use existing technology in a new way.

Who are YOUR personal heroes? Why?

I admire the blogger Ethan Zuckerman, because of the excellent work he has done promoting and explaining digital activism and the scholar Yochai Benkler, because he "runs up the down escalator" and does so brilliantly and with humanism. I also admire Amelia Earhart, who was a very savvy, strong, and talented woman.

What are YOU hungry for?

For people to understand that the future doesn't just happen, it is created, and that now more than ever that creation is participatory.

About Mary Joyce

Mary Joyce is DigiActive’s co-founder. She ran her first digital activism web site, Demologue.com, from 2005 to 2007 while living in Morocco and Chile. She later became a digital activism consultant, working for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Berkman Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University.

Her previous political experience includes the United States Congress, United Nations Association, and National Democratic Institute. She just finished her first year of a master’s program at the the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. Mary recently took a leave of absence from DigiActive to act as New Media Operations Manager at Barack Obama’s presidential campaign.

E-mail: Mary AT DigiActive DOT org

Posted via email from HungryPeople

How To Build A Business Around YOUR Passion – Part II

2009-12-09T09:07:00.001+08:00

An Interview With People Igniter JV Wong

This interview set us on fire! JV Wong is the woman behind People Ignite, an exciting and innovative training company that offers the best of both worlds – learning in an enjoyable and fun environment.

Tell us more about YOUR job? What does a Chief Executive Igniter do?

I see my work as my mission place.

I share with our people that we are modern evangelists whose purpose is to bring good news of joy, harmony, team spirit, and productivity in the workplace through corporate trainings, teambuilding, business planning and organizational development consulting. For the years I have worked as a consultant for both local and international organizations, I have this one realization: No matter how complex your issues are, the fundamental starting point in resolving them is through people, the most important asset of any company.

Genuine connection with one another is the key towards making any organizational objective work. We build bridges for people to be closer with one another. We believe we are organizational doctors who have been given the talent and responsibility to diagnose symptoms in companies, and prescribe the most appropriate interventions and medications which would make companies become healthier.

Take us back to when YOU were starting People Ignite. What are YOUR key learnings?

I started People Ignite with nothing much in my hand but big passion in my heart. After having worked for Microsoft Philippines for almost 4 years in total, I saw the light and resigned at the peak of my career. The calling to “teach” was too strong for me to resist. I was in a crossroad: Will I teach in the academe, or will I teach as a trainer in the corporate world? I tried both, and ended up loving being in the latter, doing the adult learning method. My capital? I remember pulling about 30K of my money to put up a vision I myself could only clearly see (oh, of course with my husband Wowie too, who gave me my first equipment: a Compaq laptop which made me cry. On it was a note that says: “May this gift help you get closer to your dream.”) My first office was at Wowie’s home in Vista Verde, Cainta. He had modern “office” set up for me so I will be inspired to work. There, I would create my training modules, bind them, sharpen my attendee’s pencils, print their badges and lose hours of sleep because I was a one-woman team. With a handful of clients who took a chance on People Ignite, I made sure I would take care of them and connect with them.

Through the years, one key learning I would always keep to heart is this: We are not here without these customers who have trusted us. They give the lifeblood to our company, and we should work with and serve them to the best of our abilities. Genuine Connection is our guiding light as we engage with our customers.

Is there really a little hero in each of us?

Always! It takes another person, a friend or even a very difficult problem to make us realize that there is a hidden HERO in each one of us. One of the reasons why I stay with People Ignite, through the thickest and the thinnest is because I know I can still be of help to those who have yet to see their heroic potential. I am here to help them realize their shining moments, their milestones and what they can do to make the world a better place to live in. Through People Ignite, I try to fulfill my personal mission, that is, to become a catalyst for others in discovering their truest potential.

How can we be 'heroic' in our daily lives?

We need to appreciate the SMALL: Small acts of kindness. SMALL note of gratitude to those who have helped you. SMALL time to text someone you are thinking of them and you are wishing them safety and health. Small quality time with those you love. SMALL service that stretches through eternity. SMALL steps towards greatness. SMALL, positive wall post in Facebook that could uplift someone from stress or problems. I have always believed that big waves begin from SMALL ripples. The word HERO can be overwhelming you know.. as if you need to save mankind to become one. Of course not. Every person has every opportunity to become a HERO, in our own little, SMALL way, everyday. Every big thing had to start from the small thing.

What do YOU hope to ignite in our country?

I wish to ignite the Global Pinoy Spirit in all of us. I wish to ignite the flame of pride as Filipinos, we could do so many things for the country and for the world by leveraging on our innate ability towards “bayanihan” (or helping one another). We should be proud of our flag badge because amidst the grim news of our country, there are so many Pinoys who selflessly help our fellow brothers and sisters stand up.

What can People Ignite offer communities?

I have always believed that our work in People Ignite is to catalyze excellence of people. Through the gift of speech and facilitation, we could use our talents to provide “emotional relief goods” to people affected by calamities (may this be physical calamity, emotional, or spiritual). As trainers and facilitators, we could help people identify how they can get through crossroads, help employees discover their skills, and guide companies achieve their goals towards performance. As long as there are organizations who see our value in helping them become better and happier employees, we are there with them in their SMALL baby steps.

Think of these four characteristics of entrepreneurs: hearts, smarts, guts, luck. Which one are you?

Both Heart and Smart. I believe in balance. Heart is great, but without being knowledge, experience, and skill – it would be tough to reach your destination and your dream. On one hand, if you are just SMART, without HEART, people would eventually see through your intention. Balance is key.

Who are YOUR personal heroes? Why?

My first hero is my GRANDMA, Nanay Goreng. Much of who I am today is because she selflessly, unconditionally love and has accepted me for who I am – with all of my idiosnycracy. She never dictated who I should be. She allowed me to bloom, gently guided me through the years, and embraced my talents and gifts. I guess, you need that kind of love for you to realize that you are valuable, and that you can significantly contribute to the world. Nanay Goreng, now 85 years old, is the greatest hero in my life.

Second would be my mother, Julie. Her entrepreneurial spirit and creativity opened the doorway for me to discover that I can run People Ignite, founded on passion and a dream. Mommy Julie has always believed in my talents. When I was around 7 years old, she would already teach me how to sell plastic accessories to my grade school classmates. She taught me math and the gift of communication… which I am using as I run the company.

What are YOU hungry for?

I would always crave for a good, plain and classic Vanilla Ice Cream. Hahaha! I have strong preference on the simple things in life, simple pleasures. I was telling Wowie my husband that he should be very happy I am his wife. I am very low maintenance. On another note, I am hungry to help people discover their talents and potential, and I try my best to do this through People Ignite.

How can the HungryPeople blog build a community? How is community different from a tribe?

I can help your community through providing motivational, and enlightening sessions on people development, engagement and customer connection. It would be my honor to be of help grow your community as I share your site, and your mission. I read through your site, and one thing I felt: This is being operated based on passion! (HungryPeople's Note: Thank YOU, JV!)

About JV Wong

JV started her career as a marketing and alliance specialist when she worked for iPHIL Communications, then a pioneer in providing corporate internet solutions. Her role exposed her to the rich dynamics of the IT (Information Technology) Industry. It was her springboard to appreciate the IT realm, which led her to join Microsoft Philippines as a Strategic Alliance Manager, ISV Manager (independent software vendor), and CTEC Manager (Certified Technical and Education Centres). Her work experiences in Microsoft gave her an extensive view of people learning development, business networks, and account relationship management. Through testimonials and achievements, she became a CPE (Customer Partner Experience) Hero Awardee for Q4, Fiscal Year 2003, one of the most renowned awards in Microsoft.

She specializes in culture reformation, cross-collaboration, strategy mapping, business value chain, salesmanship, and customer experience programs. She has served as resource speaker, trainer and facilitator in the following industries: Government, Academe, IT, Retail and Distribution, FMCG, and Services among other industries. Her core competence is customer engagement through customer connection. She is a strong advocate of helping people discover their potential and talents through workshops and seminars. She specializes in instilling positive culture change, bridging communication, career path formation, and individual excellence. Her role as the Managing Director transcends beyond the designation. It’s a way of life for her to be with people and to connect with them through interactive, life-changing sessions.

Posted via email from HungryPeople

The HungryPeople Dozen

2009-12-08T23:42:00.001+08:00

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As an early Christmas gift list, HungryPeople is releasing our "baker's" dozen.

In Tom Peters tradition, we are listing the 12 Must Have Books On Business Strategy:

The HungryPeople Dozen.

This list will open YOUR mind to opportunities and possibilities.

Happy Reading!

And advance Merry Christmas to all!

From the HungryPeople Team

Posted via email from HungryPeople

How Life Seems At Times

2009-12-08T23:26:00.001+08:00

Is this a great photo or what?

What images come to mind when you see pictures like these? Send them in.

Posted via email from jokinggorilla

How To Build YOUR Personal Brand

2009-12-08T09:08:00.001+08:00

An Interview With Personal Branding Expert Dan Schawbel

Dan has changed the game of personal branding forever. He has transformed the way we look at our careers and managed to convince us that we really need to be conscious and keep our focus on our personal brands – something that brand managers have long done. In this interview, he shares with us his thoughts on how YOU can build YOUR own personal brand without shelling a lot of money.

What is it exactly that YOU do?

I help people and companies build brands using the latest and greatest technologies in order to become more successful. I provide resources, such as the Personal Branding Blog, Personal Branding Magazine and my book, Me 2.0, as well as speak and consult.

Define for us what a Brazen Careerist does. What's the key difference compared to others?

My affiliation with Brazen Careerist is that of a paid evangelist, but I've been promoting the brand since inception because I believe that young professionals should unite to bring more value to the world at large. Brazen Careerist is the social network for Gen-Y and the number one recruiting center for companies looking to hire that generation. Other social networks such as LinkedIn and Facebook cater more to the population at large, where as Brazen focuses on Gen-Y.

Tell us more about the Personal Branding blog. Where did YOU get the inspiration to build a resource site like this?

I've been marketing myself since before I became self-aware of my personal branding passion. In College I had 8 internships, 7 leadership positions in organizations, my own company and straight A's, so I became highly marketable. After reading The Brand Called You in Fast Company on March 14, 2007, I realized that I could become the leading Gen-Y voice on the topic and then immediately started the Personal Branding Blog.

Were YOU ever scared?

I was always confident in this area because I knew I could win. Previously, I was always scared of public speaking and was quite an introverted character, but my passion awoken me and now I feel empowered to make a difference.

If there's one person in the world that YOU'D like to meet, who would it be? Why?

I wouldn't consider myself a fan of anyone, which actually allows me to interview celebrities without worshiping them. I would like to meet Steve Rubel though because he's been a great supporter of my work and believes in the concept of personal branding because he's a success story.

Tell us who's the most interesting person YOU'VE met/interviewed. Why?

Hands down Marcus Buckingham, even though I've spoken to Timbaland, Jerry Springer, MC Hammer and Kathy Ireland. Marcus said something that I'll carry with me the rest of my life: "people don't change, they become more of who they already are." After my five year high school reunion, I realized that he's 100% correct. You can't change people!

How can we maximize social media tools to build our personal brand?

You create a system for yourself, so that you start using one tool and that assists you with the other tools. For instance, my world starts in Google reader, where I take a shower in information, which I then tag and organize and share on social networks and use for blog posts.

What metrics are YOU looking at to say that someone has a strong personal brand?

I think the latest and greatest metric is how many Twitter lists you're on that categorize you as the brand you want to showcase to the world. I'm not that into web traffic and subscribers as it relates to influence, but I'm into how it builds your perception and gives you a pathway to making money.

Who has the best personal brand today in YOUR criteria?

There is a difference between the biggest and the best. I would say that Obama has the biggest influence and reach, yet his approval rating is poor. I think Oprah or Trump has the best personal brand overall because their brands have stayed consistent even before they were celebrities (authenticity).

Who are YOUR personal heroes? Why?

I would say my grandfather is my hero because he worked 24/7 to build a support system for my family and he established a lot of our values. I also dedicated my book to him.

What are YOU hungry for?

I'm hungry to grow my web properties and write another book!

About Dan Schawbel

Dan Schawbel is the leading personal branding expert for Gen-Y. He is the bestselling author of Me 2.0, as well as the publisher of both the award winning Personal Branding Blog and Personal Branding Magazine.

Posted via email from HungryPeople

How To Maximize Social Media For Your Business

2009-12-07T12:10:00.001+08:00

An Interview With Social Media Philippines' Rob Angeles

Rob Angeles is changing the social media landscape. He has helped personalities and organizations build their brands through the use of social media tools. Join in on our conversation below.

What's the goal of Social Media Philippines?

To be able to reach out to individuals and businesses who are interested in using social media.

How is social media changing the business landscape?

Social media can help businesses create a face in front of their customers that can continuously engage.

If YOU have to pick three brands who are succeeding in using social media to build a bigger business, which are they?

Dell
Comcast
Vocalpoint (P&G)

Who's the best social media marketer out there? Why?

I can’t really describe him as a marketer. Chris Brogan ROCKS!!!

How can ordinary individuals use social media in a way that it improves their life and career?

Social media allows people to share. It gives them the opportunity to open one of their windows and tell people that they are here to help. The more they become visible using the tools, the more people can know about them.

If YOU had $10m and 10 years left to live, how would YOU spend it?

I’ve always wanted to have a foundation to help street children get a good education.

How can governments maximize social media tools to help their people?

There is a lot of information that people need from different branches of the government. By incorporating social media through their processes, they can easily communicate with their constituents.

Who are YOUR personal heroes? Why?

Robbie Mirasol. He was my mentor when I started in the retail industry and eventually introduced me to prominent individuals of the trade who also mentored me.

What are YOU hungry for?

I’m hungry to impart on how businesses can communicate 2-way to their customers.

Do YOU have plans to re-settle in the Philippines? If yes, why? If no, why not?

Yes! It will be easier to help people if I am there.

About Rob Angeles

Rob Angeles is the founder and author of Social Media Philippines. His goal is to be able to reach out and educate entrepreneurs and marketers in incorporating social media in their business processes to improve delivery of results, transform internal and external communications to conversations and expand brand presence using Web 2.0 tools.

Some stuff you might want to know

Rob has a bachelor’s degree in computer science and earned 12 years of IT experience. He carried different roles from software development, database architecture and project management. Most of the projects he handled are development and deployment of large, mission-critical applications from multi-national companies and government agencies around the United States.

The Path to Social Media

Thanks to his friends from Cincinnati, Rob is now hyper with social media and conversations. He was a part of a offshore team that worked with Vocalpoint and Tremor. He understood the power of communities and word-of-mouth and was hypnotized by it ever since.

Today, Rob is still exploring for a unique voice for his tribe. Culture plays a major role in introducing social media and adopting certain rules is cool but adding a twist, appropriate for a tribe, is more likely to be accepted.

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12 Little Things Manifesto

2009-12-07T02:22:00.001+08:00

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12 Little Things Manifesto.pdf (768 KB)

Alex Lacson wrote the book entitled 12 Little Things Every Filipino Can Do To Help Our Country.

Let's help him spread the 12 Little Things bug.

Download this manifesto. Thank you.

Posted via email from Alex Lacson For Senator

12 Little Things Manifesto

2009-12-07T02:11:00.001+08:00

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12 Little Things Manifesto.pdf (1138 KB)

Alex Lacson wrote the book entitled 12 Little Things Every Filipino Can Do To Help Our Country.

Let's help him spread the 12 Little Things bug.

Download this manifesto. Thank you.

Posted via email from Alex Lacson For Senator

Market-Driving Strategies

2009-12-06T14:03:00.001+08:00

Drive the Market

One of my best 2009 key learnings is Josiah Go's world-class Market-Driving Strategies concept. It is one of the most refreshing take on marketing that I have read about in the last 5 years and coming from a Filipino at that. Last November 10-11, 2009, I was attending his 7^th Market-Driving Strategies Executive Workshop where I learned the key ideas behind Market-Driving Strategies. Though some are ideas from Western authors and marketing experts, Josiah has fused them and added his own ideas to create a new 'brew' suited for the times.

Today, we see a lot of companies that are being market-driven. In short, they are being led by the market. Now, that is not a good place to be. What if the market doesn't like YOU anymore but a newcomer around the block? What are YOU going to do? Maybe at this time, its already too late.

Josiah Go asks “why not be ready?” And so the idea of the Market-Driving Strategies is born. Instead of being market-driven, businesses can now become market driving. Wouldn't YOU want to be at the driver's seat of the market? In that way, YOU determine where YOU all are going and what roads to take. In short, YOU lead the market and reap a windfall from that market leading position. But mind YOU, this is not a once a year activity.

The Market-Driving Strategies are 'everyday mindsets' in our marketing work. Everyday startups are born that might one day challenge YOU. In Tom Peters' tradition, Josiah Go reiterates that we must embrace our 'fringe' competitors and customers as they may provide clues to where future opportunities can be found. Sometimes it is not our biggest competitors and customers that can break us, but rather, small 'fringe' businesses that might suddenly disrupt the market with an innovative product or service and make us irrelevant.

Market-Driving Strategies shapes the market. These strategies define how a firm embraces innovative changes in industry logic and business system. Taking a cue from Blue Ocean Strategy, these strategies ultimately focus on serving the underserved and unserved markets. Josiah cites the wonderful example of Colgate toothpaste which is the market leader in the Philippines of toothpaste products. He asks the audience how many in the room brought their toothbrush kit for use between meals during the workshop, only a handful of people raised their hands in a room of about 36 people. That clearly illustrates even market leaders have untapped opportunities that they are not looking at.

I can compare the Market-Driving Strategies workshop to a Starbucks experience. It is the perfect brew for the challenging times as we really need to drive the market. Starbucks is a self-service operation compared to its competitors but still people line up to buy Starbucks coffee. I can cite other examples but the key lesson here is that Starbucks has created an experience that cannot be easily matched by its competitors and it has shaped coffee lovers' mindsets that only the Starbucks coffee is the best in the world. In that way, it is shaping the market.

6 Key Ideas of Market-Driving Strategies are:

It not only presents a compelling value proposition but it includes the entire value chain in this proposition.
It focuses on an entrepreneurial orientation instead of marketing-orientation.
It creates demand from non-customers and not just existing customers.
It is unique and different compared to just being better.
It takes into consideration market penetration, not just market shares.
And lastly, which is the most important, these strategies bring 'strategic' value and not incremental value to the firm. An advantage that cannot be easily copied or imitated by competitors.

Are YOU ready to drive YOUR market?

As YOU plan for YOUR marketing programs in the coming year, why not throw the box for once?

And drive the market.

That's the HungryPeople challenge. Get back to us on YOUR market-driving experience.

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Winners of Read HungryPeople, Win A Book Contest

2009-12-06T12:29:00.001+08:00

Thank YOU HungryPeople!

The "Read HungryPeople, Win A Book" campaign has ended. Our winners are:

1. Nines Terol-Zialcita

2. Hill Roberts

3. Jayson Biadog

4. Alvin Chua

Please send us YOUR mailing addresses to people.hungry@gmail.com.

Thank YOU so much for participating.

The HungryPeople Team

Posted via email from HungryPeople

The 12 Little Things Video

2009-12-06T02:38:00.001+08:00

One of the most inspiring videos I've seen on the 12 Little Things We Can Do To Help Our Country.

Posted via email from Alex Lacson For Senator

Why Most Social Media 'Experts' Are Wrong

2009-12-05T22:16:00.001+08:00

(photo courtesy of idfive)

Social Media is an enabling platform

Social Media is not a niche in Marketing. Social Media is a powerful enabler. A powerful enabling technology (or platform). Yes, YOU read that right. Social Media is a technology. Not in the hardware form but as a software. Google is an enabler. Amazon.com is an enabler. Facebook is an enabler. They are all enabling platforms that allow CONVERSATIONS to happen.

When Larry Page and Sergey Brin started writing code and creating Google – they did it to organize information. But why do we need to organize information? We need it so we can find the right information for our needs in a particular moment in time and apply that information to whatever we are doing. In short, we need organized information (if I may call it that) to make decisions. Decisions are conversations. We talk to other people. We talk to ourselves. We talk to the experts. And we take action. Conversations are the lifeblood of most organizations. People make decisions based on how they read the market, based on the results of their conversations. Google has allowed us to talk with a computer and get the information we need. That's an amazing conversation!

Amazon.com is an enabler. It has enabled ordinary men and women to order books (and other products) by a single click of a button anywhere in the world at an affordable cost. Furthermore, it has allowed customers from all across the globe to post reviews on their favorite books and not-so-favorite books. Again, the keyword is CONVERSATIONS. Due to Amazon.com, reading books became cool again. Amazon brought this conversations on books (and now, other products) to a global scale. Book reviews by major newspapers are now being sidelined by reviews made by ordinary people who in fact have been touched by these books. Amazon.com is a conversation starter.

Facebook is currently the ultimate conversation enabler. Facebook has over 410m registered users. By next year, 1/6 of the globe's population will be on Facebook. Facebook has allowed family and friends to connect with each other online. It allows anyone to share a photo, a website link, a video, a note or everything else in between to whoever is in his or her network. CONVERSATIONS are the lifeblood of any market. And today, Facebook is the noisiest of them all. Facebook is an enabler. It has made distance irrelevant in everyday communications. Sure, face-to-face meetings are still important and probably won't be replaced by virtual meetings but we can only benefit from being able to talk with our loved ones, friends and clients from afar.

Social Media then cannot be viewed as just part of a marketing strategy. Social Media is an enabling technology. It facilitates the smooth execution of a good strategy. It also facilitates instant failure of a flawed strategy. This is where most businesses and organizations get the wrong idea. You need to be present in social media tools. Whether you like it or not, people (hint: your customers) are going to talk about you on the web. It's easier and it's user-friendly. So you can't dismiss this as a fad. Or even consider its covered when you hire some of the so called social media experts and do campaigns for you.

The entire organization should be prepared for social media work. You may not know but one of your employees may actually be broadcasting his take on the company's mission and goals (or worse strategies and tactics) on the web already. Social Media is a powerful tool but left on its own, you'll never know how it might come back to haunt you or the huge opportunities that you aren't tapping.

Conversations are the foundation of any market. Before people decide to buy anything. They talk it out in their heads. Sometimes they talk it out with family and friends. And now, most of us search online for the best (and cheapest) deals in town before buying anything. This is something that no business can ever control. What you can do is participate. In fact, it's imperative that you participate. If your voice is not being heard, don't expect for any of your strategies to work. This is still a bit debatable (esp. in Third World countries) but we are getting there. Expect individuals to talk about you whether you like it or not in the future. So instead of waiting for your competitors to set the tone of conversations in the market – you should join in now and maybe get the chance to get your voice heard and win your 'customers.'

If you care about your customers, you need to utilize social media tools now. Enable your customers to submit ideas and concepts for your team to consider. Invite your customers to see how you work. Ask them to test your ideas and prototypes. Bounce off ideas with them. Blog about your activities, goals and aspirations. Talk to them. In the long run, they'll feel a geniune connection with you – hear you out when you make mistakes and defend you from critics. Social Media makes it easy for any business to enable these conversations. But do this only when you are ready. And here I come to the last point, your entire organization should be ready to talk when you decide to engage your audience. Or else you'll make a fool of yourself. And lose some business.

Are you maximizing social media tools today? Not everything is for your business. But try some that really gets your customers talking. Listen to them. And calibrate (and re-calibrate) your strategies and actions towards the insights you get until you succeed. Then do this all over again. Never rest on your laurels.

Goodluck!

P.S.

The best execution strategy is from Nike: JUST DO IT! And from Kevin Roberts of Saatchi & Saatchi: Ready. Fire. Aim.

Please send in your questions.

Posted via email from HungryPeople

How Social Media Can Help Customers

2009-12-04T09:25:00.001+08:00

An Interview With Rapleaf CEO Auren Hoffman

Auren Hoffman is changing the how social media affects us. His company, Rapleaf is the current market leader in mining the billions of data about our social media habits and in turn helping companies sort this out. Here's our very interesting interview with him.

In Alan M. Webber's book, Rules of Thumb, he described YOU as one of the most connected persons he's met, please tell us more about it.

Wow. I had no idea. I am really flattered. I have not read the book yet but it is on my reading list.

In YOUR line of work, give us an idea on how should each company maximize social media to help them?

Social media is a really important means of communicating for hundreds of millions of people ever day. Ignoring it will marginalize your business. And social media is not just about teenagers ... my mother is now on Facebook and Twitter ... and she had never even typed until four years ago (the first thing she asked me when we got her a keyboard is “why aren’t the keys in alphabetical order”). Your customers are using social media so you need to be too.

What does Rapleaf do? How do YOU help companies?

Rapleaf helps companies learn more about their customers so they can serve them better.

What's the best way for companies on the web to provide amazing customer experiences?

The best way to provide amazing customer experiences is to first take the effort to get to know your customer. Whether on the web or not, people want an experience that is tailored to them. If you show up to your friend’s house for brunch and you’re a vegan, they probably will not serve you a ham and cheese omelet. They won’t do that because they know you. Companies should similarly take the time to get to know their customers to provide them a customized experience.

How can HungryPeople improve our readers' experience?

You might want to try to acquire the domain name for hungrypeople – your current domain name, hungrypeople.posterous.com, is hard to remember.

We really like this quote "Teach a man to fish and you've fed him for a lifetime ... unless, of course, he doesn't like sushi -- then you also need to teach him how to cook." How did it come about?

I probably come up with that while consuming too much sake.

The quote I am most famous for is “an entrepreneur is someone that steals office supplies from home and brings them to work.” I like that quote because it shows that anyone can act like an entrepreneur and take charge of their situation. Some of the best entrepreneurs I know are elementary school teachers.

Why is YOUR blog named summation?

Because “hungrypeople” was already taken.

Who are YOUR personal heroes? Why?

My personal heroes are Martin Luther King, Gandhi, and Alexander Hamilton. They were all great revolutionaries who bettered society. They worked unselfishly their entire lives to accomplish great things. And, unfortunately, all three of their lives were cut short by a bullet.

My other personal hero is my brother ... mostly because he’s had to deal with me all his life.

What are YOU hungry for?

I’m hungry to:

... help companies give their customers a better customized experience.

... build a great company at Rapleaf. We’re on our way.

What's next for an Auren Hoffman?

I have the best job in world. I work with incredible people who are smart, nice, and get things done. I plan to be at Rapleaf for a very long time. And if your readers want to work with us, encourage them to apply at www.rapleaf.com/careers.

About Auren Hoffman

Auren Hoffman is CEO of Rapleaf. Rapleaf helps companies learn more about their customers. Rapleaf analyzes data on over 300 million consumers worldwide.

Auren is also a non-employee cofounder of BrightRoll and serves on boards of AdRocket and Retargeter.com.

He was formerly Chair of Stonebrick Group and the Connector Group. Previously, he founded and sold three Internet companies before age 30: BridgePath (sold in 2002), Kyber Systems (sold in 1997), and GetRelevant (sold in 2002). He is the founder of the Dialog Retreat. He's an active angel investor or advisor in: Aardvark, Blip.TV, CrowdFlower, Delicious Brands, GoodRec, Grouply, Huddler, Kontagent, LabPixies, Lefora, Logik Systems, Meebo, MesmoTV, Offbeat Guides, OtherInbox, Playlist, Play Megaphone, Proclivity Systems, RichRelevance, Sharethrough, Structural Wealth Management, Thread.com, VoxPop.tv, Yotify, Zoom Systems, and more. Auren holds a B.S.E. in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research from the UC Berkeley. He writes a blog called Summation (http://blog.summation.net).

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How Social Media Can Help Our Education Sector

2009-12-03T16:44:00.001+08:00

An Interview With The Country's Top Java Programmer Rommel Feria

Rom Feria is one of the country's leading advocates on maximizing Information Technology to benefit schools, colleges and universities. He is an avid computer enthusiast and urges our government to work in providing universal Internet access for all. He is also one of the movers behind the TEDxManila event. (HungryPeople Note: There will be a TEDxManila event this coming December 5 in UP Diliman.)

What's the state of the Philippine Internet Community? Please share with us any interesting statistics.

Unfortunately, I do not have statistics to share about the Philippine Internet Community. I have lost track of how fast the community is growing.

How has social media changed our country's political, economic, and social landscape?

Social media has affected the country in ways that nobody expected. The use of Facebook and Twitter has made Filipinos disseminate information at a more rapid rate than any of the traditional media, radio, TV or print, could imagine. Connecting to other Filipinos, here and abroad, is easier now -- making them more involved in issues that affect the country.

How can ordinary Filipinos use social media tools to build their own businesses?

There are lots of ways to take advantage of these tools but I only encourage one -- to build applications on these social media platform or even build our own social media tool, i.e., to generate our own IP.

Why aren't Filipino engineers or computer programmers/enthusiasts pursuing game-changing technologies or even developing social media tools? Why can't we build the next Twitter, Facebook, etc.? What can we do to make it happen?

Schools stifle creativity, according to Sir Ken Robinson. Without creativity, there is no innovation. From personal experience, students today are lacking in imagination. In addition to this, there are (only) a handful of local companies that allow their employees to be creative/innovative. Can you name a local company that has a research and development arm?

If YOU were Secretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology, what would be YOUR top 3 priorities? What would YOU be remembered for after YOUR term?

Make broadband access more affordable and readily available. Akin to Finland's right to 1Mbps broadband, all Filipinos should have the same right! Filipinos should be able to connect to the internet any time they want to and at acceptable speeds.

Who are the social media experts of the Philippines?

Anybody can be a social media expert. One should be wary of those who claim to be experts in social media. :P

What can Philippine businesses and business groups do to jumpstart the creation of the Silicon Valley of the Philippines (if not Asia)?

Silicon Valley is an area where companies and universities meet. Unfortunately, Philippine businesses and business groups do not see that they need to invest in colleges and universities for this to happen. Investment is not restricted to giving money as donation or grants. The academe can only do so much but without industry participation, the Silicon Valley of a region will not be realized.

Who are YOUR personal heroes? Why?

Frankly, I do not have one. Don't ask me why.

What are YOU hungry for?

Change!

We're not sure if YOU know Rapleaf CEO Auren Hoffman, but he said aside from teaching a man how to fish so he can eat for a lifetime, YOU also need to teach him how to cook, what can YOU say about that? Are some of our efforts not helping because we forget the fact that some people might not exactly know how to grow revenues/profits after catching a lot of fish?

Being an entrepreneur is not easy but not impossible to learn. Financing is available, via micro-lending projects, etc. The country is not friendly to the small businesses. Try to setup your own business and the documentation required to be legit will easily frustrate you and eventually discourage you from setting up your business. This is the reason why there are less tax-paying entrepreneurs as compared to your local sari-sari stores.

How can we help YOU in the Java Education and Development Initiative?

Featuring the JEDI project in one of your blog post and urging CS/IT teachers to contribute can definitely help.

About Rommel Feria (as taken from www.TEDxManila.com)

Rom Feria is an educator and a computer scientist. After graduating with a Bachelor of Computer Science degree from the University of the Philippines, he joined the faculty of the Department of Computer Science from the same university. Rom later went to the United Kingdom to complete his MSc in Information Systems from the University of Leeds, England.

With 15 years of experience as an educator, Rom received awards as BioMedical Informatics Fellow of the US National Institute of Health-National Library of Medicine, Apple Distinguished Educator and Sun Java Champion. He is a certified Java Programmer, a certified Linux Certification Exam Proctor, a Professional Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and a Senior Member of the Association for Computing Machinery.

Rom leads the UP Java Research & Development Center and supervises the Java Education & Development Initiative Project. He also heads the Web Science Research Group of the University of the Philippines – Diliman’s Computer Science department.

Rom is one of first TED Fellows (first Filipino TED Fellow) to attend the TED Conference at Long Beach, CA, USA. He is also one of the organizers of the first TEDx event in the Philippines, TEDxUP.

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How To Use Social Media For Your Business

2009-12-02T17:04:00.001+08:00

An Interview With Easidesigns' Clement Yeung

One of the leading lights of using social media as an innovative business tool today. Clement Yeung shares with us his fascinating insights on the changes that are affecting small and medium-sized businesses today.

What was your original motivation in starting easidesigns & easisell?

Being in employment was like slave labor. I had aspirations that could not be met by a 9-5.

In fact, I disliked it so much that I'd already left my job before I started planning easidesigns. After figuring out I'd made a mistake by offering only design services, I started Easisell as a way to increase cut down competition and increase profit margins.

How have social media tools helped YOU in your career?

For easisell, about 90% of my business is generated through social media and word of mouth - a by-product of effective social media marketing.

The cash cost for all of this? Close to nothing. This helps me invest money into other areas of the business such as research and development.

Because of social media, I've been able to start numerous internet-based businesses in various niche markets that continue to go from strength to strength.

Who's the leading expert on social media today? Why?

I don't think that one person can be awarded the title of "thought-leader" encompassing social media as a whole - it's much more complex.

If I had to choose a role model, I'd choose Mike Stelzner. I've had the pleasure of seeing him grow as a social media expert since I last interviewed him around a year ago.

Already known as the industry leader in writing White Papers, he's since established quite a name for himself with sites like www.socialmediaexaminer.com. I admire his thirst for knowledge and passion for building strong relationships. Every day I learn something invaluable from the guy.

In YOUR online profile, you keep saying YOU'RE a human and animals rights supporter with a wicked sense of humor – what does the wicked sense of humor mean? Give us an example.

"The Onion News" is my favorite comedy source. If that doesn't clarify things I don't know what will...

If YOU were stuck with Facebook Founder Mark Zuckerberg for one hour in an elevator, what will YOU tell him?

I'd tell him to keep his hands to himself.

How can small businesses today leverage social media tools to build their brand and revenues?

I think that before they do anything, they first need to create a mission statement for their social media marketing campaign. "Give and thou shall receive" is a good place to start.

After that it gets a little more complex, but the basic gist is - GO OUT THERE AND MAKE FRIENDS. That's the fundamental strategy that I use and it's working very well for me.

YOU seem to be starting a lot of things, where do YOU get all the energy to do this?

Our society has conditioned most of us to use the label "work" where it carries a negative connotation. It's a reflection of the mindset that surrounds the rat race lifestyle. Most people are simply unhappy in their jobs and work has become drudgery.

When you love something so much, breaks are no longer recreational - it is in the work where we find the recreation.

Think of these four characteristics of entrepreneurs: hearts, smarts, guts, luck. Which one are you?

I think that an entrepreneur should carry a healthy dose of each. To be an entrepreneur is by definition - a journey which will incorporate all four and more...

Who are YOUR personal heroes? Why?

I tend not to idolize people - perhaps because I know that everyone has equal potential.

People that have played a huge part in my development are Robert Kiyosaki, Stephen Covey, Ron Paul, Anthony Robbins, Eckhart Tolle and my partner, Marj Galangco.

My "heroes" are everyday people helping others through the goodness of their own heart. It's irrefutably genuine when you see support in the absense of the pursuit of money, fame or power.

What are YOU hungry for?

I'm hungry to see the result of my efforts change people's lives. Unfortunately we can't settle for Government education to breed the kind of foundations the economy needs to flourish, so my aim is to set up a schooling business aimed at educating young children on how to think objectively and really understand themselves and the world they live in.

About Clement Yeung

Clement is a business owner, entrepreneur, health freak, human & animal rights activist and a joker. He founded easisell.com in late 2007, a creative marketing & design business that continues to go from strength to strength. "Most of the marketing on the web today is garbage" Clement says. "All it ends up doing is wasting money and time. Clients get much better, faster results when they focus on the 20% that really matters." If you have an internet-based business and you want to get better exposure, contact clement@easisell.com for a no-obligation, no-fee evaluation. Alternatively, you can catch him on Twitter (@clementyeung).

Posted via email from HungryPeople

How To Be Curious

2009-12-01T13:56:00.001+08:00

An Interview With VIRAL LOOP Author Adam Penenberg

Adam Penenberg is one of the most prolific non-fiction writers of our age. His insights into the inner workings of the world are priceless. In his latest book Viral Loop, he discusses what has changed since the emergence of the Internet and social media. He also posits its now easier to put a price on your social network.

YOU write for magazines and papers like Fast Company, the New York Times, Forbes, Wired News and Playboy, where do YOU get the ideas to be able to write for such a diverse field?

A: Ideas come from everywhere. As a freelance writer, you don't eat if you don't publish, so that's a tremendous incentive to come up with salable ideas. When I was first breaking in--in the mid 90s--I'd research a topic I found fascinating: Human cloning, music piracy gangs, criminal subcultures on the Internet, hackers, what would happen to the world economy if an earthquake shattered Tokyo. Then I'd break it into different pieces for different pitches to magazines and newspapers. Nowadays I read a lot, and talk to as many smart people as possible. Usually somewhere in there is a great idea for a story. It's just a matter of identifying it.

What's the key to being a great investigative reporter?

A: Curiosity and a willingness to keep looking even when you think there may not be anything there.

Tell us more about YOUR latest book, Viral Loop. What was YOUR original motivation in writing the book?

A: It sprang from a cover story I wrote for Fast Company magazine. I was interviewing Marc Andreessen, the guy who created Mosaic, the first mass-use web browser and a co-founder of Netscape. We were discussing his latest venture, Ning, and he used the term "viral loop" in explaining how it was growing so fast. He explained that virality had been etched into the business plans of some of the most iconic companies of our time--Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, eBay, PayPal, Hotmail, Skype, and many more. I'd never heard of a viral loop before, but Andreessen assured me that in Silicon Valley, many venture capitalists were not only hip to it, they were investing gobs of money into viral companies. When I returned to NY I asked a number of colleagues and people into technology, and none of them had heard of it either. When the cover story came out I put together a book proposal. My agent sent it out on a Tuesday and five publishers began bidding on it the very next day. So I knew I was on to something very special.

In your research, what's the best way for a company to build a brand today?

Create a product so useful and good that consumers will happily spread it for you.

How can each of us maximize social media to build better lives?

Social networking is something we humans have always done. The difference is that the broadband-infused Web makes it faster and more efficient than ever before. Studies show that people who have friends live longer than those who don't. They also get fewer colds and flu than those who are lonely. The surprising thing is that these friends, according to the studies, need not be in the same room. They can be friends you talk to over the telephone, or through letters, email or social networks. The upshot of that is that social networking is a biological need. It doesn't replace face-to-face communication, but can be a wonderful addition. So don't be shy: Express yourself.

What can we expect from YOU next?

For the next many months I'll be pimping by book and building my business based on the book. There's the Viral Loop Facebook application (apps.facebook.com/viralloop) that tells you what you're worth to Facebook, based on your level of engagement, the number of friends and their level of activity, and your influence, which is defined, in part, by how well you spread the widget. The idea behind it is that social network users have value. By adding friends, sharing photos and video links, chatting, messaging, posting to the newsfeed, etc. we increase Facebook's value. Look at it this way: If Facebook only had 3 million users, would it have a valuation of $6.5 billion? I'm worth about $116 to Facebook, according to the app. We are about to announce partnerships with companies so that Viral Loop app users could redeem their money for real things. Discounts on rental cars and movie tickets, or appliances. I think when people can actually spend their Viral loop currency on real things the app will go totally viral.

What is the future of book publishing?

My personal belief is that many books will become multimedia experiences in the years to come. For example, say you have a biography of Amelia Earhart. Not only would you have the text, you'd have video of newsreel footage from the 1930s, schematics of her plane, maps of her routes, interviews with aviation historians. Publishers could also re-release their entire catalogs of books in this new form, and profit mightily. It could be like it was for the music industry when it transitioned from records to compact discs. People restocked their entire collections. I think the book industry could experience the same bonanza if it plays its cards right. After all, publishers and authors own the content.

What's YOUR favorite book?

Too many to name. I read a lot, everything from novels to non-fiction business and tech books.

What does curiosity seeker mean?

What do you think it means?

Who are YOUR personal heroes? Why?

The people who take care of their families and make the world a better place.

What are YOU hungry for?

A more peaceful, less dyspeptic political culture.

About Adam Penenberg

Adam L. Penenberg is a journalism professor and assistant director of the Business and Economic Program at New York University. A contributing writer to Fast Company, he has also written for Inc., Forbes, The New York Times, Slate, Wired, Economist, Playboy and Mother Jones. A former senior editor at Forbes and reporter for Forbes.com, Penenberg garnered national attention in 1998 for unmasking serial fabricator Stephen Glass of The New Republic.

His latest book is Viral Loop: From Facebook to Twitter, How Today's Smartest Businesses Grow Themselves (Hyperion, 2009) has been excerpted in Fast Company and TechCrunch in the U.S. and in Wired magazine in the UK.

In addition to the Today Show, he has appeared on CNN's "American Morning" and "Money Line," ABC World News and News Now, FoxNews, MSNBC, CNBC, and NPR and been quoted about media and technology in the Washington Post, Christian Science Monitor, Wired News, Ad Age, Marketwatch, Politico, etc.

YOU can follow him on twitter @ http://twitter.com/Penenberg.

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How To Be A Non-Conformist

2009-11-30T15:42:00.001+08:00

An Interview With The Art of Non-Conformity Founder Chris Guillebeau

Probably the most interesting “career renegades” today is Chris Guillebeau. His mission is not to change the world but to dominate it by traveling to every country on the globe in 5 years. He has shown that you don't have to be filthy rich to be able to travel the world. He has lived in Africa and has in many ocassions changed our view of who we really are.

Who is Chris Guillebeau? What is he up to?

I'm a writer, entrepreneur, and world traveler. My goal is to visit every country in the world and help people live unconventional lives.

What's the best country that YOU visited?

I don't have a favorite. I especially like Holland, South Africa, Ghana, Thailand, and the list goes on...

How did the Art of Conformity manifesto come about? What was YOUR original motivation in starting it?

There is a lot of info on the About page, so be sure to check that out.

The Art of Non-Conformity (AONC) project chronicles my writing on how to change the world by achieving significant, personal goals while helping others at the same time. In the battle against conventional beliefs, I focus on three areas: Life, Work, and Travel.

Basically, I felt like I had been privileged to have a lot of different life and work experiences, and I wanted to start a new career as a writer where I shared them with people.

Were YOU ever scared?

It's not past tense; I'm frequently scared. I don't think the goal is to become fearless, but to find a way to overcome the fear.

What's the best experience YOU had while traveling?

I have so many! Last week I took a 15-hour train from Azerbaijan to Georgia. Earlier this year I finished visiting every country in South America. It's hard to pick just one.

If YOU had a magic carpet that can fly, where would YOU go?

I go to about 25 countries a year, so I don't really need a magic carpet. Cathay Pacific works fairly well. :)

How can a non-conformist thrive inside a conformist community?

Where you live is somewhat irrelevant. I know many people from the Philippines who have made different choices and escaped the status quo. I don't mean to pretend that it's easy, but I also don't want someone to feel like there is no hope to achieve the life they really want.

Who are YOUR personal heroes? Why?

On a "hero" level, I think of people who have overcome considerable opposition to achieve something bigger than themselves -- people like Martin Luther King, Jr., for example. On a more personal level, I appreciate all of the people who care about what I have to say. I enjoy learning from them every day.

What are YOU hungry for?

Change and growth.

If YOU can work with Seth Godin on something game-changing, disruptive or non-conformist, what will it be?

I worked with Seth in June when I got the chance to visit his Alternative MBA class. It was an honor and I look continually learning from him. I read Seth's blog everywhere I go.

Tell us more about the time that YOU lived in the Philippines. What city did YOU live in?

I was a child and lived in Angeles near the former Clark Air Force base. It was a very good experience for me in that I learned a lot about being cross-cultural at a young age.

About me (Chris Guillebeau, taken from his website)

I served as a volunteer executive for a medical charity in West Africa from 2002-2006. It was thrilling, challenging, and exhausting – all good qualities to have in an adventure. I gave keynote speeches to presidents, hung out with warlords, and learned far more in those four years than anything I learned in college.

After my time in West Africa came to an end in 2006, I came to Seattle for a graduate program in International Studies at the University of Washington. I enjoyed my studies, but I enjoyed travel even more – during every break between quarters, I traveled independently to countries like Burma, Uganda, Jordan, Macedonia, and 20 more.

So far I’ve been to more than 100 countries, but there’s a long list of places I haven’t made it to yet. It’s going to take a while, so I’ve given myself four more years until I’m 35 years old. (Any good goal has a deadline.)

I have been self-employed for my entire adult life, having successfully avoided the dreaded “real job” for more than a decade. My entrepreneurial history has ranged from importing coffee from Jamaica, search engine optimization in its early days, Google Adwords and Adsense arbitrage, and building a small publishing company while volunteering in Africa. I now write on this site and sell Unconventional Products.

I live with my wife Jolie, an artist and teacher who has been to more than 40 countries of her own. Jolie is nice about letting me travel the world whenever I want as long as I promise to keep coming back. We live in our adopted city of Portland, Oregon.

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Read HungryPeople, Win A Book Contest

2009-11-29T20:07:00.001+08:00

One reason to Read HungryPeople

After our exclusive interview with Chinkee Tan last month, he sent The HungryPeople Team five copies of his new book “For Richer, For Poorer: Why The Rich Get Richer and The Poor Get Poorer” as a gesture of thanks for us to give to family and friends.

In HungryPeople tradition, we decided to give it away for free to our blog's readers who are based in the Philippines (sorry for our overseas readers, we're working to open this to all readers later on but YOU can still join in on the conversations).

The contest is simple:

Write what YOU like (or love) the most about the HungryPeople blog.
YOU can submit as many entries as YOU like.
YOU can submit YOUR entry in two ways:
1. Post a comment in this blog post itself (see comments section below);
2. Post a comment in our Facebook fanpage at http://www.facebook.com/hungrypeople.
If YOU are submitting YOUR entry through our blog post, please be sure to check out the blog post back in December 5 when we post the winners. We will still need to get YOUR mailing address after this.
The best five (5) entries will win one book each. Our criteria for this is deceptively simple – it should be the most thought-provoking, most disturbing, funniest and craziest rave about the blog that we'll ever read about.
The contest runs from November 29 to December 4, 2009 (Philippine time).
HungryPeople will shoulder shipping costs.
On December 5, 2009, we will pick the five best entries and send YOU the book as our Christmas gift.

If YOU have any questions, email us at people.hungry [at] gmail.com.

Thank YOU!

Happy Reading!

A Christmas Message from The HungryPeople Team

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The part where I was mentioned in Life's Big Lies

2009-11-29T02:05:00.001+08:00

This is a shot of the part where I was mentioned in Ernie Cecilia's book - Life's Big Lies. (see earlier post here).

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Life's Big Lessons and Life's Big Lies

2009-11-29T01:41:00.001+08:00

YOU might want to check out two newly-released books by Ernie Cecilia (see our interview here). He regularly writes for the Philippine Daily Inquirer in the Job Section every Sunday.

I have to say its an amazing book on life (not to mention I was mentioned in the book Life's Big Lies).

Full Disclaimer: Ernie Cecilia is a good friend. Though I met him after years of following his columns.

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Two Seminars YOU Should Attend

2009-11-28T19:57:00.001+08:00

Barely 3 days is left before November is out. After which, we have only one month to go before we say goodbye to 2009. It has been an amazing year for me and 2009 marked the birth of HungryPeople . Over the last few weeks, I have attended two game-changing seminars locally that are driving positive changes in the market.

Marketing Driving Strategy

The first is Josiah Go's Market Driving Strategy seminar. Part original content, part fusion of some marketing principles from across the globe, it is Filipino-inspired but truly world-class. The concept of driving the market and shaping the market instead of being driven by the market is nothing new but only Josiah Go has created a game-changing marketing concept that is an improvement over Blue Ocean Strategy and other models by Kotler, Ries and even Seth Godin. It is my personal belief that this should be taught in all business schools around the country. It will give our students superior knowledge and skills on Marketing and Business Strategy when they graduate to take on our country's businesses to greater heights. Next session will be in January already. YOU can also follow Josiah Go's marketing advice at http://twitter.com/josiahgo.

Here's is a short article by The Philippine Star on MDS, Market Driving Strategies: Turning trials into triumphs.

For Richer or For Poorer Seminar

The second is Chinkee Tan's For Richer or For Poorer seminar. Chinkee Tan is considered to be the Robert Kiyosaki of the Philippines. His funny but "disturbing" concepts drive YOU to think deeper about YOUR chances to really succeed in life not only financially but also holistically. His latest book, For Richer or For Poor, Why The Rich Get Richer and The Poor Get Poorer, Know The Secrets of the Rich, is a fascinating guide into building a good money mindset. It has been proven scientifically that it is our mindsets that will help us whether we succeed or not in life. In this seminar, Chinkee shares lessons he learned along the way. His concepts are practical and his seminars are truly engaging. The only thing missing is the party. But perhaps that's another story.

Watch Korina Sanchez's Rated K special featuring Chinkee Tan:

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How To Be Creative

2009-11-27T09:16:00.001+08:00

An Interview With APO HIKING SOCIETY'S Jim Paredes

If there is one person (together with his group) who has greatly influenced the music scene in the Philippines in the last 40 years – it is Jim Paredes (and the Apo Hiking Society). Not only is he a great singer but he is also an amazing creative writer. In this highly insightful interview, he shares with us key lessons he learned along the way.

What is the state of the APO HIKING SOCIETY?

We all do our own thing and get together during gigs!

What's the key to unlocking our creative potential?

Have a curious mind and do not be attached to your opinions. Show up, pay attention and come from your true self. Also, be as fearless as you can be.

In a nutshell, how can we tap the creative universe?

By awakening to it. By that, I mean awaken that you're bigger than you think you are. In fact, you ARE the universe. YOU just don't realize it all the time.

How can musicians/bands/singers/composers out there help change the world?

YOU change the world by being yourself and being true to your art.

Who is the APO HIKING SOCIETY of today?

To some, icons of music. To us, it's a friendship and a musical journey of 40 years. To others, 3 old men.

If YOU were stuck with Paulo Coelho for one hour in an elevator, what would YOU tell him?

I would ask him all about the Characters in his books. I once asked him via email who he based one character in Valkyries on. He implied she was an ex lover.

Who are YOUR personal heroes? Why?

Rizal--What a worldview he had. Truly, the first global Filipino. Ninoy--he died for his convictions. Einstein-- he had a mind of science and mysticism. Cory--A decent human being. Gautama Buddha--Truly enlightened.

What are YOU hungry for?

Life and all its aspects, its fears, joys, good times and bad times. Art, music, gigs, workshops, soulful discussions, vacations alone on an ashram.

What's a key lesson that YOU'VE learned along the way?

To love something or someone is to know as much as you can about them. When you love something or someone, they will love you back.
Love is a commitment.
Love in the end is the ONLY real thing that will outlive you.

What scares YOU?

To be condemned to a life of boredom and lack of challenges.

About Me (Jim Paredes)

I am an artist, musician, writer, photographer, teacher, environmentalist, husband, parent, father, friend, migrant, Filipino and a conduit of the Big Mind of Full Consciousness. You can read more about him at http://haringliwanag.pansitan.net/.

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How To Be A Successful Blogger

2009-11-26T10:14:00.001+08:00

An Interview With Social Media's Chris Brogan

The web has many celebrities. Chris Brogan is not just one of them, he is one of the pioneers of this new band of celebrities. His insights into the social media world and the web in general has captivated almost everyone. Some argue that he is the most influential blogger out there. In this interview, he shares with us his take on web developments past and present.

YOU seem to be everywhere, what is it exactly that YOU do?

I'm president of an online channel development company, a professional speaker, and a bestselling author.

Take us back to when YOU were just starting as a blogger, what were the major differences compared to today?

Blogs when they started were much more manual. I used a WYSIWYG website editing software. No comments. No RSS.

What's the fastest way to build a community on the web?

Care more about them than you do your own stuff. Comment on their posts. Learn what you can about others and share that, too.

How do YOU find the HungryPeople blog? How can we improve it?

Equip people. As often as possible, equip people with what they need to take on the world. Beyond that, keep posts a mix of brief and occasionally deep.

If YOU were the inventor of the World Wide Web, what's a key feature that YOU would have added?

I'd invent a much more modular web, one that doesn't use "page" as the main element of reference.

Can YOU share with us a program or social networking site that YOU want to see created?

I want to see more mobile networks. You saw the NIN application that lets fans promote proximity-based networking? I want that.

How important is LISTENING today?

It's everything. Without listening, why bother using the social web?

How did YOU end up writing the book Trust Agents with Julien Smith? What was the original motivation in writing the book?

We'd written an ebook called Trust Economies. When we were through, we both realized we had much more to talk about.

Who are YOUR personal heroes? Why?

My hero is Dr. Stephen Covey who gave me the tools I used to succeed.

What are YOU hungry for?

I'm hungry to help humans realize that they can drive their own lives. I want to give everyone keys.

We know that YOU want to be inclusionary, but we can't help asking this, who's YOUR favorite blogger/s? Why?

My favorite blogger is Jon Swanson (http://levite.wordpress.com) . He makes me think on many levels EVERY post.

About Chris Brogan

Chris Brogan is President of New Marketing Labs, a new media marketing agency, and home of the Inbound Marketing Summit conferences and Inbound Marketing Bootcamp educational events. He works with large and mid-sized companies to improve online business communications like marketing and PR through the use of social software, community platforms, and other emerging web and mobile technologies. For more information on this, please contact Chris directly.

Chris is co-author of the book Trust Agents, with Julien Smith.

Chris Brogan is a ten year veteran of using social media and both web and mobile technologies to build digital relationships for businesses, organizations, and individuals. Chris speaks, blogs, writes articles, and makes media of all kinds at [chrisbrogan.com], a blog in the top 10 of the Advertising Age Power150, and in the top 100 on Technorati.

Posted via email from HungryPeople

How To Build A Business Around YOUR Passion

2009-11-25T11:53:00.001+08:00

An Interview With Asia's Maven Secrets Founder Anton Diaz

Anton Diaz has changed his game. After working for more than 40 hours per week for over a decade, he decided that a new lifestyle was needed. Enter Tim Ferriss' lifestyle design where YOU only work for four hours per week (YES, that's the NUMBER 4) while maintaining YOUR current income (or even more). In this interview, he shares with us some secrets and lifestyle design habits that has freed him to do more of the things that he loves. Who doesn't want to work for just four hours per week? Read on.

What's YOUR job like?

It is the best JOB in the world to do what you love doing --- traveling, eating, and discovering awesome places in the world. :)

Tell us how YOU became an expert on Internet Marketing. What key lessons did YOU learn?

I learned through close to 13 years experience in working for P&G Multinational Company, 5 years of actual blogging in Our Awesome Planet, and close to 3 years learning from Internet Marketing Gurus.

Tell us more about how Our Awesome Planet came about. What fascinates YOU about our country?

Our Awesome Planet Story – http://www.ourawesomeplanet.com/awesome/about.html.

Our Country has the best Natural Wonders, and the Warmest People.

What is the current state of blogging in the country? Problogging?

Only the Top Bloggers really earn a living from the blogs. Most people just earn "lifestyle money" that they can use to eat out, travel or buy the latest gadgets. Blogging is maturing and a lot of people are interested with how to leverage the internet.

What's Maven Secrets about? How can we benefit from it?

Maven Secrets is a 90-day Coaching Program to develop the next Internet Mavens in the Philippines. It is the best Internet Marketing and Professional Blogging Training in the Philippines.

How can Filipinos maximize social media to effect change in the country?

If each Filipino can just start a positive blog to promote the Philippines, then we can help build the image of the Philippines online.

What's it like leaving P&G to build a Four-Hour Work Week like Tim Ferriss?

Scary, and infact when I made the decision I was shivering with the thought of leaving the job I love for close to 13 years.

It was fun once you get past the Entrepreneurial hump where your back is against the wall. I cried once after a few months from resigning and questioned myself if I did the right decision. But after that emotional incident, there was no looking back. :)

How can we use social media to help the poor? How can we expect the poor to benefit from it when they struggle to have food to eat every meal time?

Social Media is not used to earn Money. Social Media is used to introduce and educate the online crowd to a product, service or advocacy. Having the right mindsets is the key to win on the Internet. If the poor would have a product that they can sell online, social media can help introduce them to the right people who would help them.

Who are YOUR personal heroes? Why?

The Paypal Mafia and Jesus' Disciples.

What are YOU hungry for?

I'm hungry for gourmet food that will blow my mind away. I'm hungry for meeting awesome and inspiring Filipinos. I'm hungry for seeing the day my kids will blog as well. :)

How can we improve the HungryPeople blog?

Interviews are inspiring but it does not empower people. A good question to ponder upon would be: "How can you empower people to change?" (HungryPeople's Note: Thank YOU. We'll surely take note of this.)

About Anton Diaz

Anton worked for the biggest multinational company in the Philippines for almost 13 years, straight out of college, before becoming a full time Online Entrepreneur. He was the Chief Information Officer of Procter & Gamble Philippines when he finally quit his day job and decided to take his blog, Our Awesome Planet, to the next level.

Our Awesome Planet, which he started in 2005, is a respected food and travel blog in the Philippines with over 12,000 hits per day and 5,500 readers, and is still growing. His advocacy is to promote Philippine tourism by sharing his "Food and Travel Secrets in the Philippines" and to inspire Filipinos to realize that living in the Philippines is truly awesome! At present, he also teaches Professional Blogging and Internet Marketing at the Asian Institute of Management and conducts a 90-day coaching program called Maven Secrets.

Posted via email from HungryPeople

Valid RSS Image

2009-11-25T09:07:00.001+08:00

Just testing.

Posted via email from jokinggorilla

How To Create Extraordinary Customer Experiences

2009-11-24T09:25:00.001+08:00

An Interview With Customer Hero Joseph Michelli

In this interview with Joseph Michelli, author of best-selling books on customer service (The Starbucks Experience and The New Gold Standard), he shares with us amazing insights in the art of living the life that counts. His books have set the tone for what customer service should be. And he continues to deliver valuable insights to us through the Michelli Experience. He is only one of the few people in the world who uses experience after their last name – something that we should all aspire to in how we manage our relationships. Because after all, our memories are all experiences in day-to-day living.

What's the best thing about being an author of a best-selling book? Why?

The opportunity to positively influence people. I have accepted that influence – is effort multiplied by scope. That means that if I maximized my effort the platform I have been given as an author/speaker significantly magnifies my ability to potentially influence greatness in others.

What's the Michelli Experience like?

It’s like a playground of opportunities and ideas. We are given the chance to meet and work with amazing speakers, leaders, and frontline workers. My team and I learn something powerful and new every day.

Where do YOU get the inspiration to write really cool stuff?

I am surrounded by terrific people. Often I have to slow down enough to simply listen to the stories of each person I encounter.

If there's ONLY ONE KEY to leadership, what is it?

Serve other’s first. Listen, Connect, Discover, Respond.

Define WOW for us? How can our (HungryPeople) blog be a WOW?

I define WOW as “how did they do that” or “how did they care so effectively?” Listen to your readership, meet their expectations and occasionally take the risk to do something wildly different that you believe/hope will engage, surprise and delight your readers.

Looking back at your childhood, would they have said, "Joseph, he's going to become a best-selling author/writer?"

I am not sure what people would have said about me back then. I am not even sure what people say about me now. I just hope I will leave a legacy of being a person who served those who cared about serving others.

What's a key lesson you learned along the way?

Life is only worth living when we stop thinking so much about ourselves.

What's the key to excellence to being a great writer?

I am not sure, since I don’t consider myself one. I am a successful writer but not a great one – Thoreauwas a great writer. Unfortunately, he is unavailable to answer your question.

Who are YOUR personal heroes? Why?

My wife Nora for her patience, forgiving nature, and ability to nurture people through her own adversity. My SVP of operations, Lynn, for her amazing competence and undying friendship and my parents for all the sacrifices they’ve made on my behalf.

What are YOU hungry for?

Integrity, deeper relationships with people closest to me.

About Joseph Michelli

Joseph A. Michelli, Ph.D., is an internationally sought-after speaker, author, and organizational consultant who has been described as “catching what is right in the world and playfully sparking people and businesses to grow toward the extraordinary.” In addition to writing best-selling books about enduring business principles, he hosted an award-winning daily radio program in Colorado Springs, Colorado for over a decade.

Dr. Michelli's book, The Starbucks Experience: 5 Principles for Turning Ordinary into Extraordinary, published by McGraw-Hill, regularly achieved bestseller status on the Wall Street Journal, BusinessWeek Magazine, and USA Today lists. He has been featured on television programs such as The Glenn Beck Show and CNBC’s “On the Money” and has conducted hundreds of radio and print interviews.

Dr. Michelli’s other books include The New Gold Standard about service excellence at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company and When Fish Fly: Lessons for Creating a Vital and Energized Workplace which was co-authored with the owner of the "World Famous" Pike Place Fish Market in Seattle. He is currently working on a new book about enhancing the healthcare experience the UCLA Medical Center way.

Dr. Michelli believes his greatest accomplishment is his ability to learn from the laughter and humor of his children, Andrew and Fiona.

Information about Dr. Michelli can be found:

www.themichelliexperience.com - Joseph's main website about his speaking and other services

www.yournewgoldstandard.com - Book website - The New Gold Standard

www.starbucksexperience.net - Book website - The Starbucks Experience

http://drjosephm.podbean.com - Joseph's weekly 3 - 5 minute award-winning podcasts

http://businessweek.com/managing/joseph_michelli_customer_experience/ - customer service educational video series (8 segments of 4 -5 minutes each) produced by BusinessWeek On Line outlining principles included in The New Gold Standard and The Starbucks Experience

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How To Turn Ordinary Customer Experiences Into Extraordinary

2009-11-24T09:17:00.001+08:00

An Interview With Customer Hero Joseph Michelli

What's the best thing about being an author of a best-selling book? Why?

What's the Michelli Experience like?

Where do YOU get the inspiration to write really cool stuff?

I am surrounded by terrific people. Often I have to slow down enough to simply listen to the stories of each person I encounter.

If there's ONLY ONE KEY to leadership, what is it?

Serve other’s first. Listen, Connect, Discover, Respond.

Define WOW for us? How can our (HungryPeople) blog be a WOW?

Looking back at your childhood, would they have said, "Joseph, he's going to become a best-selling author/writer?"

What's a key lesson you learned along the way?

Life is only worth living when we stop thinking so much about ourselves.

What's the key to excellence to being a great writer?

I am not sure, since I don’t consider myself one. I am a successful writer but not a great one – Thoreau was a great writer. Unfortunately, he is unavailable to answer your question.

Who are YOUR personal heroes? Why?

What are YOU hungry for?

Integrity, deeper relationships with people closest to me.

About Joseph Michelli

Dr. Michelli believes his greatest accomplishment is his ability to learn from the laughter and humor of his children, Andrew and Fiona.

Information about Dr. Michelli can be found:

www.themichelliexperience.com - Joseph's main website about his speaking and other services

www.yournewgoldstandard.com - Book website - The New Gold Standard

www.starbucksexperience.net - Book website - The Starbucks Experience

http://drjosephm.podbean.com - Joseph's weekly 3 - 5 minute award-winning podcasts

Posted via email from HungryPeople

How To Make It Great!

2009-11-23T08:18:00.001+08:00

An Interview with Make It Great Institute Founder Phil Gerbyshak

In this GREAT interview with Phil Gerbyshak, he shares with us amazing ideas on how to make everyday things great, what's it like to be a relationship geek and a new media coach – and more importantly how to change a world that's searching for more authentic relationships.

Where did YOU get the inspiration to start the Make It Great Institute?

A lot of people have asked me for help in my life. I found the institute to provide a place where folks could find the help they needed to take their life to the next level.

What's the best way to Make Each Day a Great Day?

I firmly believe we are destined to become a combination of the people we meet and the things we learn. The best way to make it great is to find great people to learn great things from.

How can we use social media tools to change the world?

Social media allows us access to people we'd never have access to years ago. We're able to have conversations, exchange ideas, disagree, and get deeper inside folks' heads than not having social media. All of which means more connections to great people who can help you make it great.

What does it mean to be a Relationship Geek?

A relationship geek is someone who is passionate about creating positive relationships in their life. Relationships and people are the currency of life, and geeks are experts, so if you combine the two, you get experts on people and relationships.

How do I go about defining my dreams?

Pay attention to what consistently pops up in your day dreams. Write them down. Take note of what excites you. Write that down. Look for similarities. Try new things often. Tell your story and try to understand what it means. Listen to others' stories and understand what they are all about. And ask for help when you get stuck.

What's the best thing about being a New Media Coach?

Showing people how much fun it can be to have authentic conversations with their customers and potential customers, and then showing how easy the tools are to use when you have goals and purpose around why you're doing what you do.

How can we improve the HungryPeople blog?

Focus more, tag less. 459 tags seems like a lot. Try to narrow your scope down so you can help people better understand your story. Less is more when it comes to understanding.

How different are YOU from Anthony Robbins?

I'm only 5 foot 10, and I can't grow facial hair. The differences start there, and continue on far beyond where the mind can see, and yet, I'm sure there's a LOT we have in common. It's hard to share more than that as I've never met Mr. Robbins. When I do meet him, I'll come back to you. (Interviewer's Note: Calling Tony Robbins)

Who are YOUR personal heroes?

Jesus Christ died because of what he believed to be true. That's inspiring and heroic to me. Gandhi, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Mother Theresa died serving others. That's heroic to me too. Those who have strong beliefs and who are willing to die in the service of others are my heroes.

What are YOU hungry for?

I'm hungry to be the change in the world to make this a greater place.

What's YOUR favorite brand?

I'm not really a brand guy, I'm a people guy. My favorite people brand would have to be Marcus Buckingham, because he writes and speaks about helping people discover their strengths, something I am very passionate about.

About Phil Gerbyshak

Phil Gerbyshak is the Make it Great! Guy. He works with people and organizations to discover and share their brand with the world as a professional speaker, writer, and new media coach. You can find more about Phil at http://philgerbyshak.com.

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Efren Peńaflorida named as the 2009 CNN Hero of the Year

2009-11-22T18:38:00.003+08:00

(photo courtesy of CNN.com and John Shearer of wireimage.com)

This just in - Efren Peńaflorida won as the 2009 CNN Hero of the Year.

Efren started a "pushcart classroom" in the Philippines to bring education to poor children as an alternative to gang membership. Efren will receive $100,000. He was selected after seven weeks of online voting at CNN.com. More than 2.75 million votes were cast.

To view HungryPeople's call to vote for Efren entitled How To Change The World One Heart At A Time, click here.

To view the full CNN report, click here.

Posted via email from jokinggorilla

Efren Peńaflorida named as the 2009 CNN Hero of the Year

2009-11-22T18:38:00.001+08:00

(photo courtesy of CNN.com and John Shearer of wireimage.com)

This just in - Efren Peńaflorida won as the 2009 CNN Hero of the Year.

To view HungryPeople's call to vote for Efren entitled How To Change The World One Heart At A Time, click here.

To view the full CNN report, click here.

Posted via email from HungryPeople

If God is an engineer

2009-11-21T23:19:00.001+08:00

Three engineering students are discussing what sort of God must have designed the human body. The first says, “God must be a mechanical engineer. Look at all the joints.”

The second says, “I think God must be an electrical engineer. The nervous system has thousands of electrical connections.”

The third says, “Actually, God is a civil engineer. Who else would run a toxic waste pipeline through a recreational area?”

Posted via email from jokinggorilla

7 Social Media Rules

2009-11-21T20:31:00.001+08:00

(photo from savethetigerfund.org)

HungryPeople came up with these rules in answer to calls for Rules In Social Media.

1. Do make original content, do not copy. This is the worst crime in the social media world. Plagiarism whether offline or online sucks. (When re-posting content, please give proper credit).

2. Ask permission, do not interrupt. Again, let's take a leaf from Ideavirus' philosophy: Permission Marketing.

3. LISTEN. Conversations are the currency of social media. People are talking. You're either the speaker or the listener. You can't be both at the same time. When someone is talking, please listen.

4. Reciprocate. When someone does something for you. Say thank you. And when you get the chance to do something for them, do it.

5. Give. This is almost the same with reciprocate. But emphasis here should be to give your best.

6. Be honest. Do not lie. This is self-explanatory.

7. Be Positive. In everything you do, make sure it brings a positive impact to your world. If it's not going to benefit anyone, it's not worth a post, a tweet, a word, you get where we're going.

On top of these, let's make it simple, shall we?
Think we missed anything? Please comment below.

YOU Should Get Daily Updates From Us Directly to YOUR Email Address, Click Here.

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

How To Use Music To Change The World

2009-11-21T11:10:00.001+08:00

An Interview With Miko Pepito

Miko Pepito and his group has been getting rave reviews on their music for years. They are on the fringes of the music scene who are helping change the course of music in the Philippines.

What do YOU do for a living?

I am a spoken word artist, music producer, and an actor.

What's the state of Original Pilipino Music?

OPM right now is insecure. It wants to progress but it's scared to take the first step.

How can we use music to change the country for the better?

Music is so powerful, it can switch our emotional states in a second. So, I say we need to be responsible artists. As performers, people see us, listen to us. No matter how big or small of an artist you are, you influence others. We must use this power responsibly.

How can we help to popularize Filipino music artists?

1st, we need to encourage EVERYONE. Next, learn to accept and respect them. Lastly, we need good live shows, and to have this we need to excel, in all aspects of a show, from the tech guys, to the production crew, to the performers, EVERYONE. Sad to say, our local live shows aren't really exciting because everyone involved settles for mediocrity.

What's the best thing about Filipino music?

For me, it's how we fuse different cultural influences in our music. Some say that it's bad how we don't have our original sound, but I say it's a good start that we have lots of influences, it's how we use or abuse them that defines each artist.

Who are YOUR favorite singers/bands?

Right now, from the top of my head, Nityalila, Urbandub, Syke, Gloc9, Nimbus9, Jay-Z, and Matisyahu.

Who are YOUR personal heroes? Why?

I have a lot because I believe we all are heroes, we just need to realize our strengths and use them properly. That's why I really admire people who believed in themselves and pushed boundaries, and at the same time stayed grounded in humility. I see hero qualities in everyone.

What are YOU hungry for?

Excellence, Encouragement, Respect, and Truth.

About Miko Pepito

Miko Pepito is a spoken word artist, music producer, and an actor. He has performed around Metro Manila and in different festivals outside the Philippines, and is set to release his second album online for free. He has co-founded B.I.T.A.W., a comedy collective and is currently Head of Training for DAKILA, Philippine Collective for Modern Heroism. He advocates nationalism and positivity. He is cute. He also runs his own record label/music production studio called BAGANI MUSIC. He is currently part of comedy dance group, THE CARDIO BOYS. He also appeared in diffrent TV shows and movies, both independent and mainstream.

www.dakila.org.ph

www.tiktokpilipinas.com

www.yabangpinoy.com

Bow.

Miko Pepito

http://www.mikpepitobow.com

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

Complete List Of The HungryPeople Conversations

2009-11-20T08:05:00.001+08:00

The HungryPeople Conversations

What are YOU hungry for Series

(picture credit from Flickr)
It has been an amazing one month for us! Over the last 30 days, we have interviewed 23 people from every walk of life on the intricacies of the Art of Living and Working. They are the most interesting people on the planet.

Thank YOU for YOUR continued support.

Here's the current list:

How To Be Yourself – Ardy Roberto

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/how-to-be-yourself

How YOU Can Be Excellent In Everything YOU Do – Francis Kong

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/how-you-can-be-excellent-in-everything-you-do

How To Spread An Idea By Seth Godin

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/how-to-spread-an-idea-by-seth-godin

How To Change The World One Heart At A Time – Efren Peńaflorida

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/how-to-change-the-world-one-heart-at-a-time

An Interview With The Money Magic Queen – Morgana Rae

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/an-interview-with-money-magic-queen

How YOU Can Be A Real Customer Hero – Scott McKain

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/how-you-can-be-a-real-customer-hero

How To Take A Leap And Take YOURSELF To The Next Level – Rick Smith

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/how-to-take-leap-and-take-yourself-to-the-nex

How YOU Can Be A Global Detective – Alan M. Webber

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/how-you-can-be-a-global-detective

How YOU Can Be The Country's Ambassador Wherever YOU Are – Ivan Henares

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/you-can-the-countrys-ambassador-wherever-you

How The Philippines Became My Country By Tom Colvin

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/how-the-philippines-became-my-country-by-tom

How YOU Can Be Awesomely Simple In Business (And In Life) – John Spence

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/how-you-can-be-awesomely-simple-in-business-a

YOUR Speech Can Change The World – Nick Morgan

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/your-speech-can-change-the-world

An Interview With The Philippines' Robert Kiyosaki: Chinkee Tan

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/an-interview-with-the-philippines-robert-kiyo

An Interview With Linda Kaplan Thaler

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/an-interview-with-linda-kaplan-thaler

An Interview With HOOKED Author: Les Edgerton

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/an-interview-with-hooked-author-les-edgerton

An Interview With HOOKED Auhtor: Les Edgerton – Part II

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/an-interview-with-hooked-author-les-edgerton-0

An Interview With Xing.Com Founder Bill Liao

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/an-interview-with-xingcom-founder-bill-liao

An Interview With Another Changemaker, Harvey Key of Ateneo

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/an-interview-with-another-changemaker-harvey

Straight From Chiqui's Heart, An Interview With Chiqui Escareal-Go

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/straight-from-chiquis-heart-an-interview-with

An Interview With ZenHabits.Net Founder Leo Babauta

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/an-interview-with-zenhabitsnet-founder-leo-ba

A Passionate Filipino Investor, An Interview With Ernie Cecilia

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/a-passionate-filipino-investor-an-interview-w

Attorney At Bank, An Interview With Metrobank Card's Legal Counsel, Atty. Paulette De Jesus

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/attorney-at-bank-an-interview-with-metrobank

An Interview With A Changemaker – Nińa Terol-Zialcita

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/an-interview-with-a-changemaker

An Interview With Aubrey Miles, Popular Actress In The Philippines

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/an-interview-with-aubrey-miles-popular-actres-0

An Interview With The Philippines Foremost Marketing Expert: Josiah Go

http://hungrypeople.posterous.com/an-interview-with-the-philippines-foremost-ma

YOU Should Get Daily Updates From Us Directly to YOUR Email Address, Click Here.

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

How To Be Yourself

2009-11-19T11:57:00.001+08:00

An Interview With Salt And Light Ventures Founder Ardy Roberto

Ardy Roberto has changed the game of publishing in the Philippines. He has brought both interesting books and speakers so that we can be inspired by their examples and teachings. He is also a regular writer for the MarketingRX section of the Philippine Daily Inquirer every Friday together with his dad, marketing guru of the Philippines, Ned Roberto.

Here's our exclusive interview:

Take us back to when YOU were starting Salt and Light Ventures. What key lessons did YOU learn?

A: Key lessons I hope I've learned:

You can't do everything yourself.

God will use and bring angels to help you in your business or mission (with or without that person realizing that he/she is an angel!) when you just pour yourself into your mission.

Being in business with your wife/spouse will magnify the essence of your relationship. Make sure that you have a solid relationship, or else you'll be super stressed.

As a kid, did YOU dream to be a maketer? How did YOU end up in Marketing?

A: Nope. I wanted to be an NBA player, or a Time/Life Photojournalist, or a diplomat. I'm not really "in" marketing. I am a writer/entrepreneur by profession or calling and use marketing as a tool or vehicle...

We read this from YOUR Twitter account recently: “Just bought majority shares into an existing digital publishing business. Excited about this new medium.” Can YOU share with us what company?

A: Ha ha! Thought nobody would read that or pick that up. I can't say which one right now and make it public since the contracts are still being ironed out and finalized. Should be final by the end of November. But more than 100,000 subscribers are already receiving digital content through SMS via this brand/business. We are able to reach a much larger audience and readership through this market. Coming up soon is a MarketingRx Mobile together with the Maxwell Mobile content that we are already providing. So that's a hint....

What/Who was YOUR inspiration when YOU wrote The Heart of Healing?

A: Hmmm. That would have to be my wife, Tingting. I say hmmm' because there were many other factors and life cross roads that led me to write that book. But it was a gift and a responsibility to be on the receiving end of a healing miracle. I just had to share with people how they too could position themselves to be a candidate for a miracle. I was "inspired" by the many people who would tell me about a friend or family member who was diagnosed with a life threatening disease. I had this burden in my heart to just share my discovery -- that Hope, Encouragement, Love and Prayer are powerful medicine.

When are YOU going to bring back Tom Peters in the country (Philippines)?

A: Perhaps when he has a new breakthrough book again. Bringing in celebrity authors and speakers is pretty risky and stressful thought.

What's it like having Ned Roberto as a dad?

A: It's like being an AIM student, I guess :-)

What is the Achievers and Leaders Summit about? How can we help?

A: The ALS is about inspiring people to become Salt of the Earth and Light of the World. You can help by spreading the word when we organize it again.

Who are YOUR personal heroes?

A: Ninoy Aquino, my Dad, my Mom, Davis Bunn, Alexander Flek, John Maxwell, Gov. Grace Padaca, Roselle Ambubuyog, Josette Biyo, Andrew Liuson, my grandfather, Tony Buzan, Albert Einstein, Norman Vincent Peale, David Robinson, Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Robin Gunn, Alex Haley, King Solomon, Daniel, Moses, the Apostle Paul, Billy Graham, Ruth Graham and their kids who are carrying on their work, Martin Luther King, Steve Jobs, Pastor Peter Tanchi, Pastor Joey Bonifacio, Fr Robert Reyes, Gary V, Manny Pacquiao, Flash Elorde... every Filipino who is striving to eradicate poverty and suffering in the Philippines.

What are YOU hungry for?

A: Right now, I am hungry for sleep. I'm at this airport in Kenya and I'm sleep deprived from this week-long writers and publishers conference held in Brackenhurst Conference Center in Limuru, Kenya. Just a beautiful place to write and brainstorm.

What's YOUR favorite book?

Every book that LifeCycle Press (the publishing house of Salt and Light) publishes has to be a favorite. (My Father's Business by Peter Tsukahira, Work - Prison or Place of Destiny by David Oliver, all of my Dad's books. John Maxwell's Thinking for a Change and Winning Attitude and Failing Forward are favorites). Recent favorite reads include Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller. Great read.

How has the world changed in the last 5 years?

A: Will need a thesis to answer this... But just look at this. I am answering your questions from a netbook, with free wifi in an African country. Couldn't do all that 5 years ago...or could I?

About Ardy Roberto

Ardy Roberto is an author, entrepreneur, speaker and international award-winning seminar producer. He co-writes a weekly column, MarketingRx, for the Philippine Daily Inquirer together with his father, marketing guru, Dr Ned Roberto. He is co-author of S4-Success Secrets of the Sales Superstars; and The Fundraiser’s Guide to Fundraising with Mayan Quebral. OMF Literature published his booklet, Ang Buhay Na Hindi Bitin—How to Live Life Content, Blessed and Worry-Free, now on it’s 4th printing and The Heart of Healing last August 2008.

Ardy, together with his wife, Tingting, is the co-founder and Chief Encouragement Officer of Salt & Light Ventures, Inc. They are the only learning event organizers to have won both local and international awards for the seminars and conferences that they have produced and marketed.

A writer by calling, Ardy has also discovered the joy of creating and launching new events and business ventures—such as the Achievers and Leaders Seminar, Inspire Leadership Consultancy, and the Buzan Center for Creative Thinking—that inspire and bring out the best in people.

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

How YOU Can Be Excellent In Everything YOU Do

2009-11-18T12:28:00.001+08:00

An Interview With The Philippines' No. 1 Motivational Speaker Francis Kong
Today, we caught up with the Philippines' No. 1 Motivational Speaker, Mr. Francis J. Kong. Francis has given thousands of speeches throughout the years and he has given many of us hope for a brighter future.

Francis Kong is an amazing writer, speaker and business leader. He has built one of the most successful garments company in the country and has one of the longest running radio talk shows.

What's YOUR job like?
It's like rolling a huge rock uphill but once in a while you get to enjoy the scenery along the way.

It's like I am in the transportation business. I love to transfer people from where they are to where they can be - becoming better people.

Take us back to when YOU were starting Company B. What were the key lessons YOU learned?

Managing systems and processes are entirely different to leading people.
How has God shaped YOUR life?

Immensely. Everything done, said and lived is shaped by Him. Still a work in progress but God is my Main Reference Point.

Think of these four characteristics of entrepreneurs: hearts, smarts, guts, luck. Which one are you?

Hearts.
If YOU were stuck with the Pope for an hour in an elevator, what would YOU tell him?

I would not tell him anything. I would ask him a question. "How many rooms do you have in the Vatican?"

What's the key to excellence for being a great speaker?
Think with the head, feel with the heart and just let the lips go.
Who is YOUR favorite speaker? Why?

Ravi Zacharias. Not only does he stir the mind, he warms the heart.
What's YOUR favorite book? Why?
The Quest for Character by Charles Swindoll. The book opened my eyes to the importance of building character.

Who are YOUR personal heroes? Why?
Peter Tanchi. Josette Biyo. Butch Jimenez. Many more. They all exhibit humility, competence and character.

What are YOU hungry for?
Learning and more learning.

What's a key lesson you learned along the way?
There is always a right way and a wrong way. Good and evil are both present. And it is just so easy to let things go wrong. But it feels so great to see things done right.

About me (Francis Kong)

I write, I train, I speak, I learn, I seek, I search, I ask and most of all..........I love.
Learn more at http://franciskong.com/about/.

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

How YOU Can Be Excellent In Everything YOU Do

2009-11-18T12:23:00.001+08:00

An Interview With The Philippines' No. 1 Motivational Speaker Francis Kong
Today, we caught up with the Philippines' No. 1 Motivational Speaker, Mr. Francis J. Kong. Francis has given thousands of speeches throughout the years and he has given many of us hope for a brighter future.

Francis Kong is an amazing writer, speaker and business leader. He has built one of the most successful garments company in the country and has one of the longest running radio talk shows.

What's YOUR job like?
It's like rolling a huge rock uphill but once in a while you get to enjoy the scenery along the way.

It's like I am in the transportation business. I love to transfer people from where they are to where they can be - becoming better people.

Take us back to when YOU were starting Company B. What were the key lessons YOU learned?

Managing systems and processes are entirely different to leading people.
How has God shaped YOUR life?

Immensely. Everything done, said and lived is shaped by Him. Still a work in progress but God is my Main Reference Point.

Think of these four characteristics of entrepreneurs: hearts, smarts, guts, luck. Which one are you?

Hearts.
If YOU were stuck with the Pope for an hour in an elevator, what would YOU tell him?

I would not tell him anything. I would ask him a question. "How many rooms do you have in the Vatican?"

What's the key to excellence for being a great speaker?
Think with the head, feel with the heart and just let the lips go.
Who is YOUR favorite speaker? Why?

Ravi Zacharias. Not only does he stir the mind, he warms the heart.
What's YOUR favorite book? Why?
The Quest for Character by Charles Swindoll. The book opened my eyes to the importance of building character.

Who are YOUR personal heroes? Why?
Peter Tanchi. Josette Biyo. Butch Jimenez. Many more. They all exhibit humility, competence and character.

What are YOU hungry for?
Learning and more learning.

What's a key lesson you learned along the way?
There is always a right way and a wrong way. Good and evil are both present. And it is just so easy to let things go wrong. But it feels so great to see things done right.

About me (Francis Kong)

I write, I train, I speak, I learn, I seek, I search, I ask and most of all..........I love.
Learn more at http://franciskong.com/about/.

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

How To Spread An Idea By Seth Godin

2009-11-17T12:30:00.001+08:00

(Credit for photos with white background is "Bodoni Design". For the other two, it's John Abbott.)

An Interview With Uber-Marketing Guru Seth Godin

Today is an amazing day! At HungryPeople, we rarely get the chance to speak to our heroes. And today a miracle happened and yes folks, we're having Seth Godin! Considered as one of the world's leading authorities in and on marketing, Seth has continued to amaze the business world with his fascinating and effective ideas that not only captivate the world but set us on FIRE!

In this amazing interview, Seth gives yet his most interesting take on what spreading ideas is all about. YOU should read on.

Take us back to when YOU were starting ChangeThis. What was YOUR original motivation in starting it?

Ideas that spread, win. And the digital age is demonstrating that ideas can spread online fast. So, how could we figure out a way to package and spread important ideas, ideas that mattered, ideas that made things better... as opposed to junky YouTube videos? The answer was to come up with something longer than a blog post, shorter than a book and beautifully laid out.

So far, more than a dozen bestsellers (including books by Malcolm Gladwell and the Freakonomics guys) have appeared in ChangeThis format first. I'm really proud of that.

YOU seem to be starting many of the amazing things on the web: Ideavirus, ChangeThis, Squidoo, etc., where do YOU get all the energy to do this? Why do YOU do this?

Because we ship. That's what people do. We make things happen. The internet makes it easier than ever to ship ideas out the door. How can you sit this one out?

What's the key to being a great marketer?

Tell stories that spread. Make products that are remarkable. Live the story, be consistent, stick it out!

Describe to us an ideal marketing strategy for YOU? Is there such a thing?

I don't think we should spend a lot of time on "ideal" and I don't think you should change who you are in order to be a better marketer. But once you understand what you WANT, figure out how to tell a story about it, one that works and spreads.

Should YOU have a background in Sales to be great at Marketing?

Everyone should have a background in sales as far as I'm concerned.

If YOU were stuck with Malcolm Gladwell for one hour inside an elevator, what can we expect from both of YOU?

That actually happened (well, not an elevator, but backstage). It was fun. He's one of the kindest, smartest guys I know. Our job (if I can put myself in his job category) is to encourage people to rethink what they're sure they know.

Who are YOUR personal heroes? Why?

People like you, and the people reading this. People who ship. People who stand up, speak out, think things through (at least a little). Individuals who understand that they have an opportunity and a responsibility. Great teachers, the ones who will stand up to the forces of mediocrity. And any parent who shows up and does the job.

What are YOU hungry for?

I feel like I'm only getting started in spreading ideas that have a chance of changing the world for the better. I'm hungry for more of that.

What's coming soon from YOU?

In January, something new. Keep your eyes peeled. I'll pre-announce (love that word) on my blog in December.

About Seth Godin

Seth Godin is an author, blogger and public speaker. He has founded many companies, including Yoyodyne and Squidoo.com. So far, his 11 books have been translated into 34 languages. He's probably most proud of the amazing work and breakthrough ideas that people have been provoked into finding as a result of his daily provocations.

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

How To Change The World One Heart At A Time

2009-11-16T12:23:00.001+08:00

An Interview With 2009 CNN Hero Nominee Efren Peńaflorida

Efren is leading the battle to change the face of Philippine education. At the young age of 28, he is currently a nominee to become CNN's Hero of the Year for 2009 (VOTE NOW!). In transforming the once hopeless children that he has helped by founding the Dynamic Teen Company, he has given them hope that they indeed have an opportunity for a brighter future. It is from these courageous and creative men and women like Efren that we will ultimately see our world changed for the better. Here's our interview with Efren who's pushing for positive change.

How does it feel that after starting out in the slums, YOU'RE now a CNN Hero?

We are really glad that things are happening to us. This is a blessing not just for me and DTC but for the Philippines. Almost everyone I meet addresses me as a hero but the true heroes here are the people I represent. They are the children who are now determined to learn, the volunteers who unwaveringly dedicate their services for free, the selfless Filipino educators who teaches beyond their call of duty, and every Filipino who makes a difference in their simplest ways, they are the heroes I proudly represent.

Where did YOU get the inspiration to start the Dynamic Teen Company?

I almost quit school and gave up everything just to get even to those who bullied me but God sent a person who became my mentor and made me realize that I do not have to destroy my future to escape problems. He helped me pick up the broken pieces and God used him to heal my broken spirit. He discouraged me from getting back to my bullies by doing something positive. Instead of joining another gang to make revenge, why not put up my own group and turn things around. He made sense so I was supported by my classmates and friends to form DTC in August 1997.

What was a key turning point in Dynamic Teen Company's history and how did you deal with it?

There are people around us who are skeptics with the things that we do, they would say that we can't do something better for the country because we are too young to do great things. Others would think that we are just no different with other gangs and would discourage us to stop our endeavors. We were ridiculed and laughed at whenever we push the carts on the street to bring education to children who are left out and deprived. But God through our mentor helped us see that these are but challenges that we need to overcome, hurdles that we need to endure. He believed in us and in what we can do to make things happen and encouraged us not to give up.

Were you ever scared?

“We must love and guide our children well!!! If we will have a better breed of the next generation, more decent leaders, lesser corrupt individuals and peace loving citizens, maybe then the world will be great again!” – a quote I value so much that I have learned from my mentor. We were scared but we kept this in our minds as a motivation to continue pushing for positive change.

How can we give hope to the country's poor?

There is always hope but there's a main problem that needs to be addressed, that is the loss of desire to learn and the intense desire to have money-that for me is so dangerous. How can one have material wealth without earning it using education as a strong base. Others like hunger, sickness, and illiteracy are far outweighed by the lack of right values. I sincerely believe that if you value what's right and do what's best then the rest will follow. Of course there's a huge need to address homelessness, hunger, illiteracy and sickness but one's soul has to be healthy and his values should be attuned to God. You'll never lose hope when your hope is in God.

How can we help YOU? As a Filipino student? As a Filipino teacher? As a Filipino citizen? As a Filipino businessman? And as a Filipino leader?

We want to share everything we know to help make positive change a reality in the near future. Our programs are copiable, duplicable and our pushcart is very replicable with no patent nor franchise. Just help us fulfill the dream of an equal chance for all children to experience learning the fun way. You can help us in a million ways, only your imagination can limit you. Help by adapting the system, tell our story, be inspired and inspire others too, put up your own cart of learning, send us stuff we can use, help us build our dream center, and many more ways. Remember that “you are the change that you dream and together, we are the change that this world needs to be.”

Have YOU heard of Brett and Alex Harris who started TheRebelution.com in the US? They started a movement that calls for the YOUTH to rebel against society's low expectations of teenagers, that in fact, many of those who changed the course of history like George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and others started out their public service careers as teenagers. How can we ignite that “rebelution” in the Philippines?

ONE IS NEVER TOO STRONG TO DO THINGS ON HIS OWN. No man is an island. We may be very good at something but for us to accomplish great things we need to help one another. For our efforts to fulfill our country's sought-after dream of change for years, we need the cooperation and collaboration of everyone who believe and understand what it means to build the country. It is a challenge for us to build one another up and not drag each other down.

If YOU were Secretary of Education, what would be YOUR top 3 priorities?

Students' nourishment in all aspects of life, Teachers' welfare and right values in life and an effective system of learning (that is) adaptable to a community's own culture which will ensure that the students' potential are not being compromised and will instill love for learning to each one. I discovered in the lives of many successful individuals that the doors of opportunities (were) opened when they embraced the love for learning. They used education to free them from poverty and slavery. I also discovered that the key to opening that door is the right attitude in life and faith in God. With that combination I know well that I will be able to help myself, my family and many others like me.

Who are YOUR personal heroes?

The true heroes here are the dedicated volunteers who tirelessly serve the impoverished children on the streets and in the slums. They give their time unselfishly and endure the struggles that we face. And of course our mentor, who believed on us when nobody else did at the beginning. He sees the potential in every person he crosses paths with and tries to bring the best out of us. For me, and my other co-mentees he's not only a hero but a maker of heroes as well.

What are YOU hungry for?

Hungry for learning. Never lose the desire to learn, study and enrich yourselves. Embrace learning and love it for it will embrace and love you back, and shall enable you to change your world!

Who else do YOU think should we honor as the country's little HEROES?

All selfless and hardworking Filipinos who rise as heroes because of the simple things that they do which contribute in building our nation and changing it one heart at a time...

About Efren Peńaflorida (from wikipilipinas.org)

Efren "Kuya Ef" Peñaflorida is a teacher and social worker in the Philippines. He has been recognized as one of the "2009 CNN Heroes" for his outstanding advocacy to educate Filipino out-of-school youth through "pushcart classes."

His growing concern for the unschooled children in his hometown led Peñaflorida to establish Dynamic Teen Company (DTC). At that time, he was only sixteen. He envisioned this organization as a tool to reach the underserved Filipino youth by providing free tutorials. He asked three fellow high school students to devote some of their time to teach children in the slum areas every Saturday. After ten years, DTC has gained around 10,000 memberships and conducted tutorials for approximately 1,500 children.

Today, DTC's "pushcart classroom" also teaches basic reading and writing to street children.

Efren on the move (a video):

http://edition.cnn.com/2009/LIVING/wayoflife/03/05/heroes.efren.penaflorida/index.html?iref=24hours#cnnSTCVideo

YOU should VOTE for Efren NOW! Click here.

For the CNN Story on Efren, Click here.

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

Pacquiao Wins!

2009-11-15T13:47:00.003+08:00

HungryPeople sends our deepest congratulations to Manny Pacquiao for winning his fight against Puerto Rican Miguel Cotto.
Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao made history Sunday (Philippine time) when he won the Welterweight Title, his 7th in as many divisions, after defeating Puerto Rican Miguel Cotto, the reigning champion in that division.
Pacquiao has won the world championships in the Flyweight (112 pounds), Super Bantamweight (122 lb), Featherweight (126 lb), Super Featherweight (130 lb), Lightweight (135 lb), and Light Welterweight (140 lb).

No man has won seven world titles in seven weight divisions and only five boxers have won six – Pacquiao, Oscar de la Hoya, Thomas Hearns, Hector Camacho, and James Toney.
Source: http://bit.ly/4mPpYX (Inquirer Sports).

Posted via email from jokinggorilla

Pacquiao Wins!

2009-11-15T13:47:00.001+08:00

HungryPeople sends our deepest congratulations to Manny Pacquiao for winning his fight against Puerto Rican Miguel Cotto.
Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao made history Sunday (Philippine time) when he won the Welterweight Title, his 7th in as many divisions, after defeating Puerto Rican Miguel Cotto, the reigning champion in that division.
Pacquiao has won the world championships in the Flyweight (112 pounds), Super Bantamweight (122 lb), Featherweight (126 lb), Super Featherweight (130 lb), Lightweight (135 lb), and Light Welterweight (140 lb).

No man has won seven world titles in seven weight divisions and only five boxers have won six – Pacquiao, Oscar de la Hoya, Thomas Hearns, Hector Camacho, and James Toney.
Source: http://bit.ly/4mPpYX (Inquirer Sports).

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

An Example of Bootstrapping

2009-11-15T13:35:00.001+08:00

A REAL-LIFE EXAMPLE OF TAKING ADVANTAGE OF YOUR SIZE
(taken from Seth Godin's ebook The Bootstrapper's Bible)

(Or, how id software completely redefined the computer game market and made millions.)

The software company that calls itself id is a classic bootstrapper. It makes violent computer games that run on home computers. Its software is usually developed by a group of 2 to 10 people, then published by a big company like Electronic Arts. It costs a huge amount to make a new product (sometimes more than a million dollars) but amazingly little to make one more copy (as low as 50 cents).

So the idea in computer game software has always been to spend whatever it takes to make a great game, then spend whatever it takes to get shelf space in the software stores, then hope and pray that you sell a lot of copies. One hit like Myst can pay all of a companyʼs bills for years to come.

Id became famous for a game called Castle Wolfenstein. As an encore, the four guys who founded id decided to follow their own rules in playing against the big companies. They did it with a game called Doom. They brazenly broke the first rule of software marketing—they gave Doom away to anyone who wanted to download it. Free. Millions of people did. It quickly became the most popular computer game of the year. It didnʼt cost id very much to allow someone to download the game, but the company wasnʼt receiving any income at all.

In stage two, id offered a deluxe version of Doom with more levels, more monsters, more everything. Partnering with a big guy (GT Interactive), it got the software into stores around the country. And sold it directly by mail order. With a user base of millions of people, id got to call the shots. Instead of being at the mercy of the gatekeepers of distribution, it was courted by distributors and retailers. By inventing a completely different business model, a model in which it had nothing to lose, id redefined a business and won.

Take a look at all the attributes listed in this chapter. Id took advantage of the seven that help the bootstrapper and steadfastly avoided the five that help the big company. By redefining the game and playing on its home field, it trounced companies valued at more than half a billion dollars.

Hereʼs how id used the seven bootstrapper tools:

1 NOTHING TO LOSE. The method used by id threatened to destroy software distribution as we know it. Which was fine with id, but not so fine with the guys at the big software companies. Thereʼs no way in the world they would have had the guts to do this themselves.

2 HAPPY WITH SMALL FISH. Because id didnʼt spend any money on advertising, and because it had developed the game itself, it didnʼt need Doom to be the best-selling computer game of the year to be happy. Even 30,000 sales would have been enough to make the venture successful.

3 PRESIDENTIAL INPUT. Id had total consistency. The game was designed, marketed, licensed, and managed by the same four people. No miscommunication here.

4 RAPID R&D. There were no budget committees, no marketing schedules, no organizational charts to get in the way. (Itʼs interesting to note that it took three times as long for id to create Doomʼs sequel. The gameʼs makers had apparently forgotten what they had learned about rapid R&D.)

5 THE UNDERDOG. Consumers love to root for the hippies at id. It makes them more likely to spread the word and to buy (not copy) the final game.

6 LOW OVERHEAD. Thereʼs no question that high overhead costs would have wiped these guys out.

7 TIME. They knew they could ship when they needed to, instead of when shareholders demanded a new influx of sales. Because they controlled time, they could use it to their advantage.
Send us YOUR bootstrapping examples at people.hungry [at] gmail.com. Let's hear it!

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Key principles of getting going (from The Art of the Start by Guy Kawasaki)

2009-11-14T12:58:00.001+08:00

THINK BIG. Set your sights high and strive for something grand. If youʼre going to change the world, you canʼt do it with milquetoast and boring products or services. Shoot for doing things at least ten times better than the status quo. When Jeff Bezos started Amazon.com, he didnʼt build a bookstore with a paltry 25,000 more titles than the 250,000-title brick-and-mortar bookstores. He went to 3,000,000 titles in an online bookstore.

FIND A FEW SOULMATES. History loves the notion of the sole innovator: Thomas Edison (light bulb), Steve Jobs (Macintosh), Henry Ford (Model T), Anita Roddick (The Body Shop), Richard Branson (Virgin Airlines). History is wrong. Successful companies are started, and made successful, by at least two, and usually more, soulmates. After the fact, one person may come to be recognized as “the innovator,” but it always takes a team of good people to make any venture work.

POLARIZE PEOPLE. When you create a product or service that some people love, donʼt be surprised when others hate you. Your goal is to catalyze passion—pro or anti. Donʼt be offended if people take issue with what youʼve done; the only result that should offend (and scare) you is lack of interest. Car design is a good example of the love-versus-hate reaction; consider the bifurcation of peopleʼs reactions to cars such as the Mini Cooper, Infiniti Fx 45, and Toyota Scion xB. People are either devoted fans or relentless critics, and thatʼs good.

DESIGN DIFFERENT. Depending on what management fad is hot, you might be tempted to believe that there is only one ideal way to design products and services. This isnʼt true. There is no single best way. Here are four different and valid approaches—and I am sure there are more.

HUNGRYPEOPLE'S PRINCIPLES

HungryPeople Thinks BIG. We want to start a conversation with everyone on the planet. We want to hear YOUR voice, we want to hear from YOU! YOU should talk to us!

HungryPeople is always looking for soulmates. Check out the profiles of those we've interviewed so far.

HungryPeople believes everyone has a GREAT IDEA. YOU can be the Next Big Thing. That's why we want to start a conversation with YOU. It's at the core of our philosophy that everyone is born with a gift. Everyone is born a genius! If YOU have something to say, we want to hear it!

HungryPeople is different. We feature both sides of the issue. We offer the best of both worlds. If YOU think you've failed in life, think again – millions before YOU have been there and lived to change the world. YOU can too!
Also check out our other post entitled Great Ideas for Starting Things (GIST).

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

Moses, Jesus and a bearded old man played golf one day

2009-11-13T21:33:00.001+08:00

Moses, Jesus, and a bearded old man are playing golf. Moses drives a long one, which lands on the fairway but rolls directly toward the pond. Moses raises his club, parts the water, and the ball rolls safely to the other side.

Jesus also hits a long one toward the same pond, but just as it's about to land in the center, it hovers above the surface. Jesus casually walks out on the pond and chips it onto the green.

The bearded man's drive hits a fence and bounces out onto the street, where it caroms off an oncoming truck and back onto the fairway. It's headed directly for the pond, but it lands on a lily pad, where a frog sees it and snatches it into his mouth. An eagle swoops down, grabs the frog, and flies away. As the eagle and frog pass over the green, the frog drops the ball, and it lands in the cup for a hole-in-one.

Moses turns to Jesus and says, “I hate playing with your dad.”

Posted via email from jokinggorilla

An Interview With Money Magic Queen

2009-11-13T20:59:00.001+08:00

Today, we caught up with Morgana Rae. She is the Charmed Life Coach and the Money Magic Queen. She believes that in order to better manage our money – we should build a better relationship with it. Revolutionary? Think again. She has been preaching this for many years. Find out how YOU can build a better relationship with Money in this interview.

What's YOUR relationship with Money?

My current relationship with Money is like being married to a very sexy, affectionate man who adores me.

What should be our relationship with money?

Imagine a lover you admire and desire so dearly that you would want to keep that person in your life even though he (or she) was money, NOT because he was money. This is unconditional love, not based on what you want your money to do for you. Money is not a "tool" to get what you want. I mean really, how'd YOU like to be a tool? That's not a very loving relationship.

What is Financial Alchemy all about? Where can we learn more about it?

Financial Alchemy is the transformation of your relationship with money. Your financial situation is a direct reflection of your relationship with money. If you don't like your finances (or money has an adverse impact on other relationships in your life), then something needs to change in your relationship with money. The best way to learn more is to go to http://www.abundanceandprosperity.com, and download my MP3 gift interview with Stuart Tan.

Can I really manifest money just by thinking about it?

Yes and no. Financial Alchemy is much deeper than mindset and thinking. We're going deep into unconscious blocks and a relationship shift you never knew was there.

And you MUST take action. Financial Alchemy is active: 1) you uncover your hidden blocks to abundance, 2) you personify your money "monster", 3) you eradicate the monster, 4) you create your money "honey", 5) you ask your money honey what he (or she) needs from you, and 6) you do what your money tells you to do.

This a reciprocal relationship. The ball is always in your court. It's up to YOU to be the excellent relationship partner, even when you're anxious or furious with your money honey. That's when the magic happens.

And it can happen instantly. Check out the "John Travolta Loves You" story on my blog. A client received a five figure payment, out of the blue, only TWO MINUTES after doing what her money told her to do.

Elliott Malach made $87,000 in six hours. Katie Curtin received $10,000 within one day. It goes on and on and on. What makes this different is that it is not just thinking about money. These people made money a PERSON and took ACTION.

I lay the whole process out, in detail, in my complimentary MP3 download. Here is an email I received five minutes ago:

“Hi Morgana. I was inspired enough by your writings to go back to the MP3 gift you send out and just started 'getting into it'. I just started to converse with my money personality and also told my wife about it. We both thought it was a wonderful exercise, delightful to do and very revealing... but left it at that for the moment.

This is going to sound like an infomercial but I just couldn't believe what happened next... in what I think was a time span of a couple of hours, we had not one but TWO money miracles happen. I have to call them that because it was just unexplainable otherwise.

First, my wife had someone call her out of the blue.. about a fairly high ticket auction item she'd been running online. This person had already rejected it once, but now called back and happily offered a very tidy sum and offered to cover delivery!

Then, almost right after that I had a new client contact me, who had already rejected an offer I'd made earlier that day, saying it was too pricey. But now they called back and just reversed their position, out of the blue! No further comment on price, nothing. And they turned out to be a very good client, already promising more deals in the near future.

These kinds of things don't 'just happen', I don't think. Not to us anyway, so it was absolutely clear where this came from. Thank you for bringing this forth!”

This is just the first one this morning. I get these emails every day.

How can I become a money magnet? How can HungryPeople attract more money into their life?

Very simple. Go to www.abundanceandprosperity.com and join my VIP list and download the Stuart Tan interview MP3 described above. Then you definitely want to get my "Financial Alchemy: 12 Months of Magic and Manifestation" self coaching system. It walks you through the process and keeps you on track easily with many more tools and exercises to make changing your relationship with money and improving your lifestylep simple and effortless day to day. If you go to http://www.create-money-magic.com, I'm running a short term special that I created for a Keynote I delivered today: "12 Months of Magic and Manifestation" and my "Create a New Relationship with Money" CD (at a $20 reduction), and a BONUS AUDIO of a two hour radio interview I did in September.

How can we bring more magic into our life?

They've been calling me the Money Magic Queen for years. This why I created "Financial Alchemy: 12 Months of Magic and Manifestation"-- to tip my hand and let anyone in on secrets and processes I share with my high priced clients. It's all about creating ease, flow, and synchronicity.

Tell us more about the Indian legend of Indra's Net.

Indra's net comes from Hindu and Buddhist mythology. It illustrates the idea of inter-connectedness. Imagine an intricate net stretches out across the universe, with a multifaceted jewel sitting at every intersection. Each facet of each jewel reflects every other jewel in the system. Everything is connected and reflects everything else. This is our condition as human beings. We are infinitely interconnected. Today we call it quantum physics.

Tell us more about the Renaissance Pleasure Faire that your grandmother help create.

The Faire began as a fundraiser for KPFK pacifica public radio. (*Many decades later I was interviewed on KPFK for Los Angeles's top personal development radio program "The Aware Show"!) It became a HUGE success--a real rock star and celebrity magnet: the Byrds wrote a hit song "Renaissance Faire." People would come from all over the world and then start their own pseudo Renaissance Faires at home.

It was a heavenly place to grow up as a little girl. Fanciful dress and make-believe. I LOVED growing up in that environment! It was romantic and theatrical and educational, and it made history and Shakespeare and improvisation "cool" with the popular kids at my school. I've never lost that passion for imagining life in other times and places and possibilities... and those handsome swashbuckling types, like my Money Honey!

Who are YOUR personal heroes?

There are so many, and it's always shifting. The Beatles (together and individually) are a perennial favorite. I admire Byron Katie. Barack Obama reminds me that that the impossible is possible. People of humility, talent, generosity and originality excite me.

What are YOU hungry for?

I'm hungry for an end to cruelty. Animal cruelty has been on my mind lately, and I find it intolerable. I'm hungry for single-payer universal health care in the United States, and an end to fear and lack of access to good care. And ultimately I'm hungry for a whole planet of enlightened, empowered, charmed living.

About Morgana Rae

Morgana Rae is an internationally acclaimed coach, speaker and author, and widely regarded as the world’s leading Relationship with Money Coach. Her ground breaking program for attracting wealth has featured her in Personal Excellence Magazine, Entrepreneur Magazine, United Press International and The Wall Street Journal online. Morgana has transformed thousands of money relationships while speaking in locales from Baja California to Oslo, Norway. She coaches clients as far away as Scotland, Singapore, India and Australia. Grab your award winning, complimentary "Money Magnet" audioclass download at www.abundanceandprosperity.com.

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

How YOU Can Be A Real Customer Hero

2009-11-12T23:42:00.001+08:00

An Interview with the Ultimate Customer Experience Creator Scott McKain

Scott McKain is changing how executives, businesses and other organizations treat their customers. Scott has built the Value Added Institute which promotes the development of resources on creating amazing customer experiences that impact its bottom line. He has developed concepts, models and programs that helped build extraordinary organizations that result from an extraordinary LOVE for the customer. In this customer-focused interview, he shares with us insights into how we can build better customer experiences that will engage and deepen our relationships in a truly disruptive age. This is yet HungryPeople's best interview to date mainly due to what he has to say about HungryPeople! Thanks Scott!

What's the work of the Value Added Institute?

Through speeches, seminars, and consulting with terrific organizations -- as well as my books, most recently, "Collapse of Distinction" -- we try to illuminate for organizations, and the professionals that work for them, the importance of the loyalty of the customer.

Take us back to when YOU were starting VAI. What was YOUR original motivation?

We knew in our hearts that creating compelling experiences could be more profitable than just pushing for simple transactions. We wanted to work with companies to prove it was the fact, as well as be thought leaders in how the customer experience can distinguish and differentiate your organizations -- and yourself, as a professional -- from the competition.

How can we create wonderful customer experiences in the online world?

First, understanding that the customer experience is different -- and superior -- to customer service. The experience adds the elements of personalization and emotion to the mix. By centering on how we use the technology to become more intimate with our individual customers, we begin to create wonderful experiences.

How will social media change businesses' interactions with their customers?

It's like anything else -- it will depend upon how businesses use the tool. A professional can use the telephone to follow-up with a good client and ensure satisfaction, or make telemarketing calls at dinner time. The tool is the same...the question becomes: How is it being used? Social media presents us the opportunity to deepen our connection with customers and prospects -- and, at the same time provides a forum for mindless, spamming promotional activities, as well.

Will social media deepen or rather make our interactions more artificial?

I believe social media makes us MORE of what we ALREADY are. In other words, if you truly care about customers, social media provides the opportunity to take it to an even more significant level of engagement. If you are artificial and aloof from your clients and colleagues, social media creates an infinite number of opportunities to reveal yourself and your true motives.

Describe for us what a Visionary Organization look like? How can we become one?

Visionary Organizations follow the four-step process I outline in "Collapse of Distinction" --

First, they seek Clarity. You have to know (and be able to clearly explain) precisely who and what you are -- and are NOT. Too many try to be more things to more people, thereby diluting their Clarity and inadvertently extinguishing customer passion.

Second is Creativity -- almost by definition, Visionary Organizations are creative. However, the surprising part of my research is that they aren't creative in EVERY area...they SELECT just one or two points where they will be revolutionarily different from the rest of their industry.

Third step is Communication -- which is part of what I love about what you are doing at HungryPeople. The Visionary Organization communicates in STORIES, not in a recitation of facts and ratios.

Finally, it's the Customer Experience Focus...and it's vital to make the point that this isn't merely the old "focus on the customer" line. This is an obsession with how it FEELS to do business with you and your organization.

Another surprising part of what I discovered was that organizations have to follow these points in this specific order. Creativity without Clarity is devoid of distinction, for example. So, to become a Visionary Organization, begin with Clarity, and follow through with the rest.

YOU talk a lot about the 'platform,' how can social media enhance this?

Think of a band of musicians. In the old days, the key was to get on radio...because if you could do that, people would come see your concerts. You couldn't be a highly successful band unless you had radio hits.

The Grateful Dead came along and changed all of that -- in great part because they developed such a rabidly enthusiastic fan base. They created an intimate relationship with their fans that was so strong, they didn't need airplay to draw crowds.

Today's artists understand that they need Facebook, MySpace, iTunes, e-zines to fans, websites, online fan clubs, constant Twitter updates, and more...however, it really accomplishes the same thing the Dead was doing all those years ago with fewer platforms. It creates greater audience connectivity and intimacy.

One vital point -- if your band sucks, it really doesn't matter how many platforms you use to connect with an audience. Become great at what you do first...then expand it exponentially with the creative use of the platforms that social media provides.

Who are YOUR personal heroes? Why?

Zig Ziglar is a hero -- but not for the reason you may assume. Certainly he's sold a zillion books and has had an amazing speaking career, but the reason he's a hero to me is that he LIVES what he SAYS. It's amazing to me how many of the so-called "gurus" -- and the guru-wanna-be's -- talk a good game, but do not truly live what they are advising their readers and listeners to do.

There's a famous author/speaker, noted for shouting from the platform that we males should "seek the opinion of women -- and listen." Yet, my wife sat in his conference room for two days with only three other people at a meeting regarding his spouse's company, and not one time did he ask my wife what she thought about anything -- or truly listened to anyone else's opinion but his own. I still admire his thinking -- but he'll never be a "hero."

What are YOU hungry for?

Continued learning and growth...and relationships with people and organizations hungry for the same.

(Interviewer's Note: And here we get to the best part, I couldn't sleep after reading this.)

How can HungryPeople become a better experience for our readers?

Well, first off, you have an awesome start! I absolutely love what you are doing! It seems that you understand that wonderful combination of disconnection and symmetry about the point that you can change the world by providing resources to inspire individuals to improve. It doesn't seem possible -- what one person can do from an idea you've shared can have an impact on the globe -- but, yet, as has often been noted, that's the ONLY way it ever happens.

Keep relating to both the evidence and emotion, and you'll continue to be an "Ultimate Customer Experience" ^(TM) for those you engage.

About Scott McKain

He is Vice Chairman of Obsidian Enterprises, Durham Capital Corporation, and Co-founder and Principal of the Value Added Institute.

Scott McKain has attained significant success in several sectors:

As a professional speaker, Scott McKain has taken it to the highest level. Member of the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame. Platform appearances in all fifty states and fifteen countries before virtually every type of audience one could imagine. He is a member of Speakers Roundtable—an elite group of twenty business speakers and authors considered to be among the best in the world.

As an author, Scott McKain has sold tens of thousands of books, and has been quoted in the “Wall St. Journal,” “USA Today” and “The New York Times.” His latest, “Collapse of Distinction” has been called the best reviewed business book of 2009.

As a business leader, Scott McKain serves as Vice Chairman of a successful holding company owning nineteen businesses in widely diverse industries with annual sales averaging over $100 million. He is the Co-founder and Principal of the Value Added Institute, a think-tank exploring the role of the customer experience in creating client loyalty.

On social media, he is well-known and widely regarded. His blog, McKainViewpoint.com has thousands of subscribers and receives tens of thousands of hits weekly.

As a media personality, Scott McKain was seen by over two million people on television every week for a decade.

YOU should follow Scott on Twitter & Facebook:

http://twitter.com/scottmckain

http://facebook.com/scottmckain

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

How to Take LEAP and Take YOURSELF to the Next Level

2009-11-11T23:14:00.001+08:00

An Interview with World50 Founder Rick Smith
Take us back to when YOU were starting World50.

I had co-authored a bestselling book on careers, and have been laid off by the firm I wrote the book for. I was exploring “normal” options, but began testing out the idea for the business. The customers took over.

What's the best way to gain experience and expertise?

YOU need to try many different things. There is little substitute for diving in and getting your hands dirty. The goal with all this is to better understand YOUR strengths and passions. (Go to the free online tool at http://www.primarycolorassessment.com to find out). Once discovered – steer in that direction.

What's the best way to manage my career?

That's a pretty broad questions. The two top things that come to mind are follow YOUR own unique strengths and passions, and set YOUR own definition of success – life on YOUR own terms.

How does one get out of a career rut?

First step – Get YOUR confidence back. Careers are like weather patterns – we all get rained on sometimes. Second, Find Ways to Steer Toward things YOU Love Doing and are good at. Over time, YOUR performance will take off and YOU will win.

How important is my Rolodex?

Networks are extremely important, but not necessarily your rolodex. The most important are those YOU are really close to – those YOU have gone out of YOUR way to help, and those who would do the same for YOU. Build these authentic relationships.

Do you think that passion is something that you can develop over time or is it just something that's innate in that some people have it and some people don't?

Everyone is passionate about something. In the workplace, what I am talking about are the types of activities, the types of challenges that really engage YOU. And, the good news is YOU can find those specific challenges in many different career paths.

What was a key turning point in your life and how did you deal with it?

I don't know if there was really one. In fact, I would say that there were really four major setbacks in my career that shaped things. They all led to significant major positive events. And they left me with the confidence that the worse it looks, the better the outcome is likely to be.

Tell us YOUR best LEAP moment.

It all started for me after I had just launched my new business. From my very first discussion with a real customer, developing our first logo, etc., I knew this what I was meant to be doing. I was leveraging my strengths and passions for the very first time, and it was as if gravity itself had been suspended. Find that unique role in your life, and follow where it carries YOU.

Who are YOUR personal heroes?

Lincoln. Silvia Lagnado (Dove Real Beauty Campaign). Janet Hanson (85 Broads). Many many more. It's not hard to find people who are living heroic lives.

What are YOU hungry for?

Actually, dinner! I had to skip lunch to work out!

About Rick Smith

Rick Smith is the bestselling author of The Leap: How 3 Simple Changes Can Propel Your Career from Good to Great (Portfolio), and the author of the popular blog, RickSmith.me. He is the co-author of the Wall Street Journal and Business Week bestseller The 5 Patterns of Extraordinary Careers, which has been sold into 13 languages and remains one of the top-selling professional career books of all time.

Rick is the creator of the Primary Color Assessment, which has received more than 100,000 pageviews since July, 2009.

He is the founding CEO of World 50, cited as one of the world’s most influential senior executive networking companies.

A leading commentator on careers and professional and personal success, Rick has been featured by more than 50 media outlets, including CNN, Time, The Wall Street Journal, The Economist, The New York Times, Harvard Business Review, Sirius Satellite Radio, Financial Times, Bloomberg, Forbes, Fortune and Chief Executive.

Rick has amassed an incredible and eclectic personal Rolodex, having worked or collaborated with dozens of world, business and cultural icons, including: Bono, Alan Greenspan, Robert Redford, Francis Ford Coppola, Magic Johnson, Lance Armstrong, Larry Bossidy, Martha Stewart, Jon Stewart, Norman Schwarzkopf, Senators Robert Dole and George Mictchell, Steven Colbert, Russell Simmons, Sir John Major and many others.

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

How YOU Can Be A Global Detective

2009-11-09T19:47:00.001+08:00

An Interview FastCompany Founder Alan Webber

Alan M. Webber is global trendspotter. He is co-founder of the innovative magazine Fast Company and has just launched his new book Rules of Thumb. In this amazing interview, he shares with us the key traits that have made him a global detective in a world that is swirling with new possibilities. Learn how YOU too can be a global detective.

How is change a math formula? How can someone become a real change agent?

Change happens when the cost of the status quo is greater than the risk of change. If you want to become a real change agent, focus on the real cost of the status quo: what are the hidden subsidies and social costs that hide the real costs of the status quo?

Tell us more about your philosophy that states “Teachers are Everywhere.”

Life is all about learning. But too many of us, after we leave formal school, (we also) stop learning, stop listening, stop paying attention to opportunities to learn from others. But the truth is, there are teachers everywhere! All you have to do is to listen, pay attention, and take notes on 3x5 cards when you hear something that makes sense to you or helps you see the world with new clarity.

Take us back to when YOU were starting the FastCompany magazine. What key lessons did YOU learn?

It helps if you know something about something: Both Bill Taylor, who started the magazine with me, and I had years of experience in both the subject of management and business and the work of putting out a magazine. Put together your best business plan, and then listen the feedback you get from the market—any idea can be made better. Learn to take no as a question: when someone turns you down when you ask for money, listen to their reasons and learn from the no. Build a great team--much of business, like much of life, is a team sport. And managing your emotional flow is more important than managing your cash flow.

How does one live inside their customer's skins?

Ask questions. Go visit your customers. Look at the world through their eyes. Try to imagine how they view the product or service you're offering. You may think you're selling one thing, but your customers may be buying something else. You need to listen more, talk less. Worry less about having right answers and worry more about asking good questions.

How do we keep track of changing trends? Can someone predict coming trends? Or is it something that we can only see when its already happening?

Trends are real, and if you can see them coming and get an early warning system in place, you have a real advantage: The difference between a crisis and an opportunity is when you learn about it. If you want to get good at sensing trends, you need to work at it. Read extensively, with an eye to data points that you can assemble in your own head. Develop a network of friends and colleagues who are attentive to developments in the world--and talk with them about what they see and hear. Begin to set up your own lenses that you use to analyze the world--test your theories about what's happening and the rate at which it is taking place against the data points you're seeing in the news. Like anything else, the more you do, the better you get at it.

You recently published one of the best books we've read, Rules of Thumb, what was YOUR inspiration in writing it? What's YOUR favorite rule of thumb among the 52 that YOU mentioned?

My inspiration was simple: I'm trying to start a conversation with as many people as possible to highlight the new practices and principles we need to adopt to create a better, more workable, sustainable future. Right now I think the world is short on leaders--and we need to create more leaders right away! The only way to do that is for all of us to step up and become leaders--and this book is a field manual for men and women who want to assume the job of leadership. My favorite rule? You've already touched on it: Stay alert! There are teachers everywhere! We all have a lot to learn from each other!

What's the best thing about being a global detective? What's a global detective?

I'm a global detective! And what I do is try to use my powers of deduction to solve mysteries: How do we do a better job of developing leaders? That's a mystery--until you begin to examine it. How do we do a better job of improving public education? A better job of eradicating poverty? A better job of social innovation and social entrepreneurship? A better job of creating a sustainable economy with companies that work? You can be a global detective too--just start asking questions and exploring new answers to old problems. The best thing about being a global detective? You meet fascinating people doing amazing work, you're always learning, and you're engaged with the real issues of our time!

How does one build experience and expertise?

Keep an open mind, meet interesting people and ask a lot of questions. Make mistakes--it's the only way to learn. Go out into the world and engage life as an adventure, not an exam. It's supposed to be fun, not a trial!

Why does a good question always beat a good answer?

Good question! Because if all you focus on is coming up with "the right answer" you ignore the importance of the learning process. You get caught up in being right--and you lose sight of the importance of how you learn in the first place. But just important is the simple fact that the questions we ask often determine the answers we get. So you need to pay attention to the way you frame questions in the first place: Are you trying to get the answer you want? Or are you asking an open question that requires an open mind to explore many different possible answers?

Who are YOUR personal heroes?

If you look at the list of people who comprise The Elders, you'll find some of the most remarkable people alive today.

What are YOU hungry for?

Change. New thinking. Innovative problem-solving. Courageous truth-tellers.

About Alan M. Webber

Alan M. Webber is an award-winning, nationally-recognized editor, author, and columnist. In 1995, he launched Fast Company magazine, a fresh, dynamic entry in the business magazine category. Headquartered in Boston, MA, the magazine became the fastest growing, most successful business magazine in history. Fast Company won 2 national magazine awards—one for general excellence, one for design—and Webber was named Adweek’s Editor of the Year in 1999, along with co-founding editor William Taylor.

In 2000 Fast Company magazine was sold to Gruner + Jahr for the second largest amount of any magazine in U.S. history. Last year Webber stepped down from his full-time editorial responsibilities, but has retained his title and contributing role as founding editor.

Prior to founding Fast Company, Webber was for 5 years the managing editor and editorial director of the Harvard Business Review. During his tenure, HBR was twice a finalist for National Magazine awards; he oversaw the journal’s visual redesign and created the architecture for the journal’s editorial performance that continues to this day. His articles and columns have appeared in The New York Times Sunday magazine, the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and the Los Angeles Tiimes, among other publications.

He has also been active at local, state, and national political levels, serving as policy advisor for the mayor of Portland, Oregon, writing speeches for several governors, and working as special assistant to the United States Secretary of Transportation.

Some Rules from Rules of Thumb

Rule number 1: When the going gets tough, the tough relax.

Rule number 18: Knowing it ain’t the same as doing it.

Rule number 38: If you want to think big, start small.

Rule number 43: Don’t confuse credentials with talent.

You can find out more about Rules of Thumb by going to http://www.rulesofthumbbook.com.

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

Great Ideas for Starting Things – Part II

2009-11-09T08:32:00.001+08:00

In continuing our earlier post on Great Ideas for Starting Things, we present today an illustration from Guy Kawasaki's book The Art of the Start. This illustration talks about the major differences between big companies and startups. There is indeed a huge differerence.

Any startup have to realize that they are creating meaning in a slightly different context than their already “big” competitors.

One of the best points here refers to Branding where Guy shares his view that Branding is actually evangelizing in the trenches.

At HungryPeople, we believe it's very important for any company or brand team to first evangelize the entire organization they belong to before going to evangelize the market. If your employees don't buy into the brand, how can YOU expect your “potential customers” to buy into it as well?

Do YOU have any stories that can inspire the world to start things?

Share them with us and we'll be happy to publish them.

Send them to people.hungry [at] gmail.com.

YOU should follow me on Twitter @jayjaboneta.

YOU should also watch Guy's The Art of the Start video at http://blog.guykawasaki.com/2006/06/the_art_of_the_.html.

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

The Fun Theory

2009-11-09T05:04:00.001+08:00

This is obviously a form of advertisement. But what the heck, it's a great exercise in creativity. I hope they make more stairs like these.
Check out what the fun theory is all about in this video experiment.
http://www.biertijd.com/mediaplayer/?itemid=16297

Fun can really make the world a better place. Let's have more fun!

Any ideas? Send them!

Posted via email from jokinggorilla

Tom Watson's Formula for Success

2009-11-08T18:33:00.001+08:00

What did Tom Watson (Founder of IBM) have to say is the formula of success?

“Would you like me to give you a formula for success?

It's quite simple, really. Double your rate of failure.

You are thinking of failure as the enemy of success. But it isn't at all. You can be discouraged by failure — or you can learn from it.

So go ahead and make mistakes.

Make all you can.

Because, remember that's where you will find success.”

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

How Hot Is Hell?

2009-11-07T23:41:00.001+08:00

(photo courtesy of religion-cults.com)
This is probably geekiest joke we've read. But its funny! Read on. Thanks to Carmen over at fetchplus.posterous.com.

The following is a question given on a University of Washington chemistry mid term.

The answer by one student was so 'profound' that the professor shared it with colleagues, via the Internet, which is, of course, why we now have the pleasure of enjoying it as well :

Bonus Question: Is Hell exothermic (gives off heat) or endothermic (absorbs heat)?

Most of the students wrote proofs of their beliefs using Boyle's Law (gas cools when it expands and heats when it is compressed) or some variant.

One student, however, wrote the following:

First, we need to know how the mass of Hell is changing in time. So we need to know the rate at which souls are moving into Hell and the rate at which they are leaving. I think that we can safely assume that once a soul gets to Hell, it will not leave. Therefore, no souls are leaving. As for how many souls are entering Hell, let's look at the different religions that exist in the world today.

Most of these religions state that if you are not a member of their religion, you will go to Hell. Since there is more than one of these religions and since people do not belong to more than one religion, we can project that all souls go to Hell. With birth and death rates as they are, we can expect the number of souls in Hell to increase exponentially. Now, we look at the rate of change of the volume in Hell because Boyle's Law states that in order for the temperature and pressure in Hell to stay the same, the volume of Hell has to expand proportionately as souls are added.

This gives two possibilities:

If Hell is expanding at a slower rate than the rate at which souls enter Hell, then the temperature and pressure in Hell will increase until all Hell breaks loose.

If Hell is expanding at a rate faster than the increase of souls in Hell, then the temperature and pressure will drop until Hell freezes over..

So which is it?

If we accept the postulate given to me by Teresa during my Freshman year that, 'It will be a cold day in Hell before I sleep with you,' and take into account the fact that I slept with her last night, then number two must be true, and thus I am sure that Hell is exothermic and has already frozen over. The corollary of this theory is that since Hell has frozen over, it follows that it is not accepting any more souls and is therefore, extinct......leaving only Heaven, thereby proving the existence of a divine being which explains why, last night, Teresa kept shouting 'Oh my God.'

THIS STUDENT RECEIVED AN A+.

What do YOU think?

Posted via email from jokinggorilla

My Point Exactly

2009-11-07T18:12:00.001+08:00

A ninety-year-old man went to the doctor and said, “Doctor, my eighteen-year-old wife is expecting a baby.”
The doctor said, “Let me tell you a story. A man went hunting, but instead of a gun, he picked up an umbrella by mistake. When a bear suddenly charged at the man, he picked up the umbrella, shot the bear, and killed it.”

The man said, “Impossible. Someone else must have shot the bear.”
The doctor said, “My point exactly.”

Posted via email from jokinggorilla

How To Name YOUR Website That Catches Attention

2009-11-07T17:24:00.001+08:00

Back when I was in high school (that was 10 years ago!), the Internet was just new. But I had the foresight to look into my future and come up with possible names for websites that will sound cool (or so I thought they were cool). It amuses me to think that over 10 years have passed since then but the forces working today are somewhat the same. We may have Facebook, Twitter and Posterous now but 10 years ago, the Internet was already revolutionizing how we operate our businesses. And it still is.

As YOU can see in the names below, my last entry was hungrypeople dot com. I cannot remember what fascinated me about the name. But who would have thought that 10 years after, I would find this list while also reading Jonathan Fields' revolutionary book Career Renegade and got inspired to start my blog, right here, right now. And so I did. HungryPeople's birthday is October 4, 2009.

Again, it's kind of amusing to think of our blogs as our babies. But indeed they are. Like our babies at home or on Sims, we do tend to our blogs on a day to day basis. We enjoy writing our hearts' out and taking a peek now and then. We get overjoyed when people comment on the blog however negative (it means someone is actually reading it!). And yes, we try to edit as much as we can.

Blogging has become a way of life for most people. But as for me, I'm relatively new. My relationship to blogging has been on and off at best. I fear commitments. Something my friends would attest to. But hopefully, this time around with YOUR help I can build the HungryPeople blog to deliver something fresh, something unique and something compelling for YOU to read on and come back for.

Thank YOU for reading this far. YOU are free to take any of the names that YOU like. Just be sure to include me in the footnotes when YOU'RE building the site of YOUR dreams. As YOU can see with my example, it's never to late to blog.

Before I close, I'm actually going to talk about what the title above is all about. Picking HungryPeople was the best choice I guess. As YOU can see, aside from being on my list 10 years ago. In my readings, one of my favorites quotes came from Steve Jobs' speech during the 2005 Stanford Graduation and I never forgot how he ended it: “Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.” HungryPeople is for anyone who is hungry for something in their lives – so the name is a match with a twist. But the clincher was having a short election on Facebook and HungryPeople won 2/3s of the vote. So there YOU are – the secret to naming a website that catches attention is to test possible names in YOUR community. They're the ones who's going to read it anyway. If it's good for them, it's good for everybody (or at least a majority).

Cool Names for Future Websites (circa 1998)

http://www.stupidmaniacs dot com

http://www.growlingmonkeys dot com

http://www.morons dot com

http://www.smellyshoes dot com – This is actually my favorite. =) Why? Because sometimes our shoes smell a bit but we still love putting it on anyway, am I right?

http://www.peoplewholovetofart dot com

http://www.peoplewholove2fart dot com

http://www.laughinghyenas dot com

http://www.laughinggods dot com

http://www.lifesavingbreath dot com

http://www.smellymouths dot com

http://www.badbreath dot com

http://www.anothercornysite dot com

http://www.coolcrazypeople dot net

http://www.jokinggorilla dot com

http://www.mockingbirds dot com

http://www.takeovers dot net

http://www.cornypeople dot com

http://www.hungrypeople dot com

What will YOU add to the list? We'd love to hear it!!!

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

YOU Can The Country's Ambassador Wherever YOU Are

2009-11-06T23:02:00.001+08:00

An Interview With 2007's Best Travel Blogger Ivan Henares

In our deeply engaging conversations with Ivan Henares, he shares with us the deep heritage of the Filipino. We are one of the richest nations (in terms of both natural resources and culture) in the world and yet we still have to reach our true potential. He has shown us that we can be our country's “ambassador” each day of our lives by being grateful and proud of our rich cultural heritage, and reflecting this attitude to everyone we meet. (Interviewer's Note: This goes as well for our readers from other countries. You don't need an official title to be an ambassador of your country.)

What's it like being included in the Asia 21 Young Leaders Summit in 2008?

It was an honor to have been recognized as a Philippines 21 Fellow for 2008. That meant representing the country at the Asia 21 Young Leaders Summit in Tokyo, Japan. We got to meet and interact with young leaders and professionals from all over Asia and the United States.

Take us back to when YOU were starting YOUR blog at http://www.ivanhenares.com. How did it come about?

In 2005, while on my first backpacking trip in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia and Brunei, I decided to start writing a blog so that I didn't have to tell my travel stories over and over again. That started the constant documentation of my trips. And the blog took off from there.

How often do YOU update your blog? Do YOU travel to some exotic or interesting place every week?

I update as often as time permits. I've got a lot of backlog since I've been busy with work lately. My work entails a lot of travel in North Philippines. If I have both the time and budget for it, I try to fit in trips of my own, sometimes weekly, sometimes fortnightly.

What's one thing YOU love about being Filipino?

We have a really rich culture and heritage. Sadly, most Filipinos don't give a damn about who we are or our national identity, placing other cultures on a pedestal higher than our own.

What does a Vice-President in the Heritage Conversation Society do?

Aside from policy decisions and administrative stuff, I do a lot of advocacy campaigns for the preservation of our architectural heritage. The Philippines is so behind when it comes to the appreciation of heritage, particularly the economic value of it. Many countries have stringent laws and strict implementation when it comes to old architecture since they add character to a city and increase its tourism and economic potential.

We asked Chiqui Escareal-Go this before, but we want to hear YOUR perspective. If YOU were Secretary of Tourism, what would be YOUR top 3 priorities? What would YOU be remembered for after YOUR term ends?

Top of mind would be ensuring sustainable tourism development. It's not just about the money. Host communities must be properly educated on how to manage tourism and make sure the attraction is not damaged by greed. There should be a strong awareness on the proper care of heritage and the environment. Let's not destroy the very source of our livelihood in exchange for short-term gains.

Second would be to make sure the benefits of tourism reach the grassroots and not just the big players. The creation of backpacker trails that would link culturally rich towns and cities not previously found on a foreign visitor's radar would give an added boost to local economies.

Finally, I'd change the rating system for our tourism establishments which is based on a checklist that only considers the occurence of certain facilities, amenities and services, disregarding quality. For example, a hotel with big rooms can be rated First Class even if the quality of the rooms and services are horrible.

When my term ends, I'd like to be remembered as someone who changed the mindset of Filipinos towards our rich natural and cultural heritage. It's what makes us unique. That's what we should sell and market to the world.

How can each Filipino help the country today?

By voting for leaders with political will. Ondoy is a game-changer. For one, I'd like to see the Lina Law repealed. It's time to relocate those informal settlers our corrupt politicians have long coddled for their votes.

Who are YOU voting for President next year? Why?

I'm still undecided. But experience and track record both in the private and public sector will play a very crucial role when I select my candidate. While we may look at platforms too; then again, politicians can just claim anything to please voters. So track record is really important to me.

Who are YOUR personal heroes? Why?

I look up to a lot of people. As a lover of history, I've read about the lives of many of our heroes. What sets them all apart is their willingness to give up themselves for our country. Can we do the same today?

What are YOU hungry for?

I'm hungry for a Filipino nation with a strong sense of nationalism. We must be proud to be Filipino and of everything that is Filipino, and be willing to fight for what our country stands for. With love for country, every thing else will follow.

About Ivan Henares

http://www.ivanhenares.com

Ivan is a tourism manager, educator, travel writer, tour organizer and heritage activist. A feisty advocate for the preservation of Philippine architectural heritage, he talks about his personal travels and advocacy in his blog Ivan About Town, named Best Travel Blog at the 2007 Philippine Blog Awards.

He is Vice President of the Heritage Conservation Society, Expert Member of the ICOMOS International Cultural Tourism Committee, and Corporate Secretary of the Ateneo Alumni Association. He currently works as Deputy Executive Director of the North Philippines Visitors Bureau, Editor of Northbound Magazine and teaches at the UP Diliman Asian Institute of Tourism. Ivan is also one the movers behind the culinary and heritage tour experiences of Ultimate Philippines Tours.

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

Brazil man appears at own funeral

2009-11-05T23:14:00.001+08:00

This is probably one of the funniest joke stories we've read. But wait a second... It's true. It actually happened.

It seems a man attended his own funeral. How can this happen?

"A 59-year-old Brazilian man has surprised his family by turning up at his own funeral, local media report.

Relatives of Ademir Jorge Goncalves, a bricklayer, had identified him as the victim of a car crash in southern Parana state the previous day. Police told O Globo newspaper that relatives had trouble identifying the corpse because it was badly disfigured." - from BBC News

Find out more here.

Posted via email from jokinggorilla

How The Philippines Became My Country by Tom Colvin

2009-11-05T18:38:00.001+08:00

An Interview With The TomCat
Today we caught up with the Philippines' adopted son Tom Colvin. Tom is a foreigner that's slowly becoming more of a Filipino. His insights into Filipino culture and our country in general are amazing. We could only wish every Filipino reads Tom and learns to love the Philippines like he does.

YOU spend YOUR time by splitting it between the Philippines and Mexico. Why do YOU love the Philippines?

I moved to Manila in 1986 to join the Information Office at the Asian Development Bank and have become a genuine American "expatriot." For me, the Philippines is my real home. Strangely, the Philippines is more like the environment that I grew up in, the American South, than is current-day America, which I barely recognize anymore since it has changed so fundamentally.

What's so special about the Filipino?

When I first moved to Manila, I decided not to run around in the usual ADB expat circles. I joined the Camera Club of the Philippines and the Makati Rotary Club, to make FILIPINO friends. Then I got into the alternative music scene, where I've met so many Filipinos. What's so special to me has been the REAL friendliness of the Filipino. Behind the famous smile is a truly warm heart.

What's YOUR job like?

Twelve years ago I was fortunate enough to step away from the 9-to-5 grind working for unimaginative bosses. Now I do what I love: music, research into Philippine history, writing. I'm a very lucky guy, waking every morning to a day [and night] full of projects I enjoy.

What's the key to being an amazing writer?

What's amazing is the fact that I do actually sit down from time to time to write. I think there is nothing more difficult or demanding than writing. I often resist, especially on the bigger writing projects. Once I'm seated at the keyboard, the words come -- but getting myself into the seat is a real challenge. I think most writers share this challenge, and the successful ones somehow develop the self-discipline to sit down.

Tell us something about us (Filipinos) that YOU know but we might not know.

Filipinos have a way of accepting the world as it is and still figuring out a way of living with a smile.

What are YOU trying to achieve in the Philippine Monument Project?

I started documenting Philippine commemorative statues and monuments in 1994, thinking that would be my contribution to the 1998 celebration of Philippine Independence. The project combines my interests in history, photography, writing and sculpture -- and it got me out into the provinces searching for little-known monuments, learning a lot of Philippine history and meeting many people. The project, still unfinished, has led to other even more-challenging history projects, all growing out of my fascination with the King Carlos IV monument in front of the Manila Cathedral. Those projects, actually, are now my major writing challenges: the research is mostly done; now it's time to write. The historical events that I'm now retelling are inspiring and show that the Philippines has, perhaps surprisingly, been in the mainstream of human history.

Tell us more about YOUR music.

For me, there's nothing more satisfying than playing music. Good fortune led me to Binky Lampano and Butch Saulog, who in late 1991 became my musical compatriots and mentors. My association with Binky and LAMPANO ALLEY is, hands down, the most exhilirating experience of my entire life. Not enough people here in the Philippines appreciate just what an astonishing musician -- and individual -- Binky is. And bandmates Simon Tan and Edwin Vergara too. LAMPANO ALLEY may be in hibernation now, but, trust me, we'll be back one of these days, with new material by Binky that will shake the rafters.

What's YOUR favorite book?

This is a difficult question for me. I suppose it's The Prophet by Khalil Gibran, which I discovered in my mid-teens. That would be followed closely by the writings of Thomas Merton and Alan Watts. Those choices are surprising, even to me, as I'm not known as a particularly "religious" person. But I do think they speak most eloquently about spirituality and the human condition.

Who are YOUR personal heroes?

Who are my heroes? The next people I meet in the street, that's who. In my life, I've met presidents and prime ministers, famous writers and musicians, and more -- but I've learned that all of them are just people. What I do admire are the ordinary people who get up early each day to face an uncertain and difficult world, and do so with a smile and a generous heart, who touch everyone they encounter with a positive energy that contributes to a better day. They are the true heroes.

What are YOU hungry for?

I'm hungry for a world where we ALL love one another and recognize and accept the godliness in each and every one, despite our individual flaws and shortcomings.

About Tom Colvin

Born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, in 1939, Tom Colvin has devoted his life to working in the non-profit sector, first as a teacher, later as a professional advocating the causes of education and international development as a writer, audio-visual producer and media-relations specialist. He worked at the Choate School, the Council for Advancement and Support of Education, Occidental College and the Asian Development Bank. Over his lifetime, he has identified himself with the downtrodden, the outcast, the misfit, the misunderstood, seeing in all of them a potential spark and flame that can set them free and serve as a beacon for those who follow.

Currently he maintains his personal website at www.words-sounds-images.com, which captures the essense of his work as writer, photographer and musician. He also maintains a blog for aspiring and professional writers interested in improving their productivity: www.becoming-a-writer-seriously.com. This blog was chosen in 2007 as one of the top twenty websites by the editor of Writer's Digest and is currently ranked by Google as one of the top websites for writers.

In the Philippines, he is best known as "Tomcat," the harmonica player with the seminal blues band Lampano Alley. He continues to be active musically, performing as guest artist with various bands and featured frequently on RJ Underground Radio with his audacious blues originals with the project band Tomcat & the Dawgs. Currently, he is preparing a program to teach harmonica and basic music theory to Filipino youth.

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

Bodega, The Next Best Thing?

2009-11-05T14:07:00.001+08:00

This is not a joke.

We posted this on Joking Gorilla instead of HungryPeople because we want it to be a light reading compared to the serious topics discussed in HungryPeople.

In our first article yesterday, we discussed ways on How To Become A Billionaire. Today, we show YOU one example that might just do the trick. If the management team of Bodega executes this right, they might be on to something BIG (hint: they might make big money).

There's a new exciting platform in town. Bodega hopes to help YOU turn your virtual goods into cash. Yes, YOU read that right. Bodega will work across different games and eventually most social networking sites to help YOU exchange or sell your virtual goods for the REAL THING – CASH.

This is actually the holy grail of the gaming industry. Though if YOU were a developer or new company, YOU would probably like to develop the next coolest game in town. Sooner or later, players will move on to the next coolest game and YOU need to come up with another cool thing.

Bodega is different. Whatever game players play, Bodega can help them transition by offering a platform where they can offer their current “status” and all that it entails to interested players and move on to the next catch. This will further enhance our gaming experience as this will enable “players” with cash to buy status or the virtual goods of already established players. Bodega hopes to be that platform.

This is an exciting opportunity and no company has yet gained market leadership on this point. Here's an interesting piece written by Jason Kincaid for TechCrunch that discusses this new gaming platform:

“As more games on the web begin to embrace virtual currency, users often run into the same problem: they’ve racked up mountains of whatever currency they’ve been playing with, but then don’t have a way to actually do anything with it outside of that game. Sure, they can always buy the latest tractor or weapon to arrive in their game, but at some point that gets old and they’re ready to cash out and move on to something new. Enter Bodega, a new platform that’s looking to help users swap virtual goods and currencies across different games, and even across different social networks.”

YOU can read the full article here.

One last thing, Joking Gorilla thinks the name Bodega is boring. Any suggestions?

Posted via email from jokinggorilla

Jay Jaboneta, Chief Storytelling Officer of HungryPeople

2009-11-04T22:08:00.001+08:00

Jay Jaboneta is a hungry man. He eats at least a 100 books a year, loves chocolate and sometimes can't live without coffee. He has worked for companies as diverse as Procter & Gamble, Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Ltd. (including Metrobank Card Corporation), and Diethelm Keller SiberHegner (DKSH). He has worked as a sales manager managing over 70 people, managed category management and retail operations for a range of brands for a national supermarket chain, as a portfolio manager getting cardholders to spend more, and has in many instances, climbed insurmountable “mountains.”

In his past life, he has graduated on top of his class, has built an entire organization of young entrepreneurs from scratch in his university, and was born again after “drowning.”

As much as Jay loves to read, he also loves to write. His main goal in life is to stay hungry, stay foolish (Steve Jobs, 2005 Stanford Graduation Speech). Learning comes as much (if not more) from mistakes and failures than from victories and successes. He believes in God and practices Zen Catholicism – his own brand of Catholicism. He believes life is a complicated phenomenal mystery and that it can never be explained in totality.

He believes powerful thinking leads to powerful action and thus, powerful results.

If YOU want powerful results, then begin by thinking powerfully.
What He Wants To Do

Jay loves to help people, companies, non-profits and brands breathe life into their brand story. He believes remarkable people and organizations deserve the attention of the world.

Jay Jaboneta is always hungry. He believes life is meant to be “eaten.”

Thus, HungryPeople was born.

When YOU are Hungry. There's always a table for YOU at HungryPeople.posterous.com.

Joking Gorilla

Yesterday, Jay got bored and so he built a blog on the FUN side. Thus, HungryPeople gave birth to Joking Gorilla - A Gorilla That Jokes. Let's Have Some Fun, YOU should visit us at JokingGorilla.posterous.com.

Posted via email from jayjaboneta

How YOU Can Be Awesomely Simple in Business (And in Life)

2009-11-04T18:27:00.001+08:00

An Interivew With An Awesome Man, John Spence

In our readings throughout the Internet and through countless of magazines and white papers, we rarely come to meet a man or a woman who promotes the idea of AWESOMENESS in business. A lot of experts think the term is for kids. “Awesome” is usually a term used by the youth. But John Spence begs to differ. In this interview, he awes us with his powerful and engaging answers on how we can build businesses and organizations that are awesomely SIMPLE yet EXCELLENT at the same time.

How can we make businesses AWESOMELY SIMPLE? Is there an AWESOMELY SIMPLE manifesto?

Actually, the book “Awesomely Simple” began as a manifesto on “Achieving Business Excellence,” but the key to making business awesomely simple is in relentlessly focusing on the core strategies that form the foundation for sustained business excellence. ”

Tell us more about Business Excellence by Design. How can we apply it in our daily lives?

Success does not come from hope, chance, fate or good luck… it comes through planning and working for success, as you have to personally define success in your life. The aim then is to create a design, a plan for life success and then follow that plan as closely as possible.

YOU read 100 books a year, what's YOUR favorite book so far?

I read 100+ business books a year (and have every year since 1989) and another 50 or so in the areas of history, philosophy, religion and science. But my favorite business book is “What Really Works – the 4 + 2 Formula for Sustained Business Success” By Joyce, Nohria and Roberson. Fantastic research – extremely solid findings.

In YOUR official bio on YOUR site, what was the “rocky start” to your college career?

I failed out of college on the first try – from a college where there was a building named after my father!!! But on the second try I graduated in the top three in the United States in my major, so I was able to turn it around. The key to the turn around? Study groups, read the books, ask for help – it was just that simple to go from failure to top of my class.

We read that YOU are on the road, 200 days a year, where is the best city in the world? Why?

Wow, tough question. I would have to say for big cities: New York. It is a incredibly vibrant, diverse, exciting city and a major global business hub. I get a little overwhelmed by the number of people, but am amazed at the endless opportunities for exploration, learning, connection and adventure. Form small cities: Crested Butte, Colorado – my home away from home.

What's the secret to creating the life YOU LOVE?

Focus, Discipline and Action. You have to clearly know what success looks like to you, how you define it, what you truly want to achieve. Next, you have to have the discipline to actually do what you need to do to make that vision of a great life… a reality. Lastly, the amount of action you apply determines the amount of success you achieve. The seems pretty straightforward, but very, very few people do it.

What's a key lesson you learned along the way?

The most important thing I have learned in my life so far is: “You become what you focus on and similar to the people you surround yourself with.” Whatever you fill your mind with, and whoever you choose to spend your time with – will in large part determine what your life will look like a decade from now.

Who are YOUR personal heroes?

I don’t really have any “heroes” == but I am deeply impressed by: Teddy Roosevelt, Peter Drucker, Gandhi, Victor Frankl, and the Dalai Lama.

What are YOU hungry for?

The opportunity to help many, many more people run successful businesses and create more successful, happy and balanced lives.

What's YOUR next book about?

I just signed a contract to write a book about the “Keys to School, Career and Life Success,” I am very excited to get started on it!

About John Spence

John is author of the book entitled: "Awesomely Simple: Essential Business Strategies for Turning Ideas into Action."

"Making the very complex...awesomely simple” is no mere catch phrase, it is truly John Spence’s mission in life. Driven by an insatiable curiosity to understand the fundamental aspects of what it takes to achieve and sustain excellence in business and life, John Spence has earned a reputation as a leading authority in the areas of Strategic Thinking, High-Performance Teams, Advanced Leadership Development, and Delivering Consistently Superior Customer Service, making him one of the most highly sought after executive educators and professional speakers in America.

For the past 14 years, John has presented workshops, speeches and executive coaching to more than 300 organizations worldwide including; Microsoft, IBM, GE Capital, Abbott, Merrill Lynch, Black Rock, NCR, AT&T, The US Navy, Alltel, Lanier, Verizon, Qualcomm, State Farm, and dozens of private companies, government offices and not-for-profits.

His main websites are http://www.jonhspence.com and http://www.awesomelysimple.com.

Be sure to sign up for his blog: www.johnspence.com/blog/.

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

How To Become A Billionaire

2009-11-04T16:46:00.001+08:00

Imagine seeing YOURSELF on the cover of Time Magazine or maybe YOU prefer Fortune Magazine or maybe in a future Joking Gorilla Billionaire List. It doesn't matter, the important thing is YOU imagine. Imagine YOU'RE reading about YOUR success and new billionaire status today.

“[Insert YOUR Name Here] is now one of the world's richest man. He/She built an empire covering the whole gamut of the computing industry. He is worth a cool $29 billion. He/She built an amazing array of cool products that redefined how we use computers, mobile phones and other computing devices... etcera... etcera... etcera...”

Now, snap out of it!
This is how YOU did it.
First move, be born to unknown parents. It might help if YOUR last name is hard to spell, common or unknown. (Think Gates. Allen. Ellison. Jobs. Wozniak. Zuckerberg. Page. Brin.). YOU get the point.

Second move, study until college then drop out. In the last 50 years, billionaires especially on newly-created industries like computing, software engineering, mobile communications, the Internet, etc. usually dropped out of college to pursue a great idea. (Gates. Ellison. Jobs. Wozniak. Zuckerberg. Page. Brin.). YOU do need to finish high school though. We still have to encounter a billionaire who's a high school drop out (If YOU know one, let's hear it!). This probably means YOU do need to master reading (comprehension), writing and speaking skills as well as knowing a little about history, algebra and physics.

Third, think and pursue a great idea that can change the world. Now comes the hard part. It's easy to say this. It's even easier to put this on a piece of paper and call it a business plan. But execution is key. Almost all the new-age billionaires started their startups on their own dime. They had to invest something themselves first. The best indicator if YOU have a great idea? There's none. If YOU believe in something so strongly and are willing to pursue it then YOU'D probably end up a billionaire. But that's a BIG IF. Remember, Edison did fail ten thousand times before perfecting the light bulb mechanism. And he didn't end up a billionaire but his name will live on forever. And Col. Sanders did get the door closed on him almost 2,000 times before getting the secret formula right for KFC. And even Kung Fu Panda had to fail many times before learning the secret of the dragon warrior.

Fourth and the final step, execute with uncanny precision. Gates hit it big when Microsoft licensed their software program to IBM and built in great functionality (yes guys, at that time Windows was cool and cheap) to it. Ellison when he got a big contract from the government and by focusing on the server market first. Jobs when he got fired from Apple. Sorry, that's not it. Jobs actually did it in two spades (or is it three?): with Apple, he made an amazing product (Macintosh, others) that the world adored and with Pixar, he built a different kind of movie/animation house. And with Apple again with the iPod and iPhone. Larry Page and Sergey Brin did it by creating an amazing search engine they called Google. Google continues to redefine the marketplace. Zuckerberg built a site for social interactions – he built a great one, cool functionalities, amazing design and easy sharing of files – photos, videos and links. Facebook is like the iPhone of social networking – it looks great, YOU can do almost anything with it, and it's not so expensive – it's actually FREE. Design Matters. Design in Outlook. And Design in Process.

Let's recap then:
1 FIRST MOVE, BE BORN TO UNKNOWN PARENTS. This is so true, it will motivate YOU to become known.
2 SECOND MOVE, DROP OUT OF COLLEGE. So far, that's how the current billionaires did it.

3 THIRD MOVE, DEVELOP A GAME-CHANGING IDEA. That will do it. Provided YOU succeed.
4 FOURTH MOVE, EXECUTE! Now this is the hardest part, but this is key.
There is in fact a fifth step. We'll let YOU figure that one out. There are clues in this article. But that deserves another post. We believe Guy Kawasaki has written extensively about that subject.

Let us know what YOU think the fifth step is. Email it to people.hungry [at] gmail.com.
P.S.
If all else fails, YOU have the following choices (in no particular order):

Marry a billionaire (YOU have to be a really hot!)
Marry into a billionaire's family (YOU have to be smart.)
Marry the ex-billionaire's spouse (Make sure they got at least a billion dollars after the divorce.)

Get YOURSELF adopted by the billionaire or the family (YOU have to be cute!)
Have any other ideas? Email it to us and we'll post them.

Posted via email from jokinggorilla

Joking Gorilla is coming soon

2009-11-04T02:47:00.001+08:00

Joking Gorilla is still under construction.
We'll update it soon.

Please check out our sister site in the meantime at HungryPeople.posterous.com.

Thanks.
Jay
Chief Gorilla
The Joking Gorilla Tribe

Editor's Note: We're currently borrowing the gorilla picture from www.jabernethy.com until our logo is done. Thank YOU Jabernethy!

Posted via email from jokinggorilla

YOUR Speech Can Change The World

2009-11-03T19:56:00.001+08:00

An Interview with Public Words Inc. Founder Nick Morgan

Nick Morgan is exceptionally talented at making magic as a speaker. He has worked with a lot of our leaders to improve their speaking prowess. He is also a great proponent for speeches that change the world. In fact, he has authored one book on the subject. Today, he's going to share with us some of his secrets to speaking success. "Listen" to him speak and YOU'LL be mesmerized! Read on!

What's the key to being a great public speaker?

Be passionate about your topic, be focused on one single idea, and realize that a speech is about the audience, not about the speaker.

How does one talk to his or her unconscious?

When you're falling asleep, or when you've got 'down' time, or when you're just waking up -- these are the times that your unconscious is most receptive. Keep it simple, and repeat over and over and over. It takes about 3 weeks of daily work to make a change in your unconscious.

Tell us more about YOUR work.
I run Public Words Inc. with 2 other great people - Nikki and Kate. We help people tell their stories. I coach people on speaking, on non-verbal communications, and on storytelling. I write books, blogs, and articles on communications. And I speak on the subject too.

How can the HungryPeople blog ensure that our story gets a chance to be heard by as many people as possible?

It's an 'ADD' world - people are overwhelmed with information. So keep it brief, clear, and compelling and keep saying the same thing over and over again. Eventually, people will hear you.

Can a speech really change the world?
Absolutely. President Kennedy did with his inaugural address. Martin Luther King, Jr. did with his 'I have a dream' speech. And countless others have inspired teams, started movements, and communicated passion around the world -- thus changing it.

Can my body language persuade others?
Yes! In fact, it's almost impossible to persuade others without persuasive body language. Every communication is two conversations -- the content and the body language. When the two are aligned, you can be persuasive. When they're not aligned, people believe the body language every time.

How can we develop a story line that can't be ignored? What do YOU think about the SUCCESs ideas from the book Made to Stick (by Dan & Chip Heath)?

By telling a new story about something the world needs to hear -- using one of the old, classic story structures, like the Quest. Dan & Chip Heath's book is great, and takes most of its ideas from the classic work by Robert Cialdini, Influence: Science and Practice. Everyone who is interested in persuasion should read Cialdini.

Tell us more about what's it like working with Sally Hogshead and Tim Sanders?

They're both incredible speakers with oodles of charisma. With them, I got quite specific and technical right away because their basic speaking skills were so strong. It was a matter of working on the finer points -- and bringing the story line of their speeches out so that nothing got in the way of their messages.

Who are YOUR personal heroes?
I've got so many: Winston Churchill, FDR, JFK, MLK, Jr., Ann Richards, Obama, Leo Buscaglia, Steve Martin -- I could go on and on....

What are YOU hungry for?
Universal health care, and serious progress on saving the environment. If we can be healthy, and if we can live on a healthy planet, we humans have a future!

About Nick Morgan

Dr. Nick Morgan is one of America’s top communication and speech coaches. He has been commissioned by Fortune 50 companies to write for many CEOs and presidents. He has worked widely with political and educational leaders. And he has helped design conferences and prepare keynote speeches around the world.

Nick’s methods, which are well-known for challenging conventional thinking, have been published worldwide. His most recent book is Trust Me: Four Steps to Authenticity and Charisma, published by Jossey-Bass in January 2009. His acclaimed book on public speaking, Working the Room: How to Move People to Action through Audience-Centered Speaking, was published by Harvard in 2003 and reprinted in paperback in 2005 as Give Your Speech, Change the World: How to Move Your Audience to Action. Nick also served as editor of the Harvard Management Communication Letter from 1998 – 2003.

After earning his PhD. in literature and rhetoric, Nick spent a number of years teaching Shakespeare and Public Speaking at the University of Virginia and Princeton University. He first started writing speeches for Virginia Governor Charles S. Robb and went on to found his own communications consulting organization, Public Words Inc, in 1997. He is a former fellow of the Kennedy School at Harvard University.

Nick attributes his success to his honest and direct approach that challenges even the most confident orators to rethink how they communicate.

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

Treat customers like a king

2009-11-03T15:40:00.001+08:00

HungryPeople would like to share a thought on the “RIGHT” way we should treat our customers.

Ken Auletta in his article in Fortune magazine entitled “10 things Google has taught us,” shared an important insight into how Google treats its customers which led to its dominant position in online search.

Treat customers like a king

An important reason Google is usually listed among the world's most trusted brands is that it conveys a sense that the user comes first. Advertising may produce 97% of Google's revenues, but to a user it doesn't feel that way. Google services are free, and they're user friendly, just as an iPod is.

The lessons Larry Page took away from reading Donald A. Norman's The Design of Everyday Things while a graduate student at Stanford, helped shape Google's approach to its customers. Or as Page said, "Having an attitude that your customer or users are always right, and your goal is to build systems that work for them in a natural way, is a good attitude to have."

To understand how Google earned the trust of its users, go back to its 2004 IPO. Again and again it referred to the users as sacrosanct: "We believe that our user focus is the foundation of our success to date. We also believe that this focus is critical for the creation of long-term value. We do not intend to compromise our user focus for short-term economic gain."

By focusing on the user, Page and Brin provided an organizing principle for Google employees that echoed Sam Walton's adage:

"'If you don't listen to your customers, someone else will.'"

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

Josiah Go Wins Brand Leadership Award

2009-11-03T00:42:00.001+08:00

Let's congratulate Josiah Go for winning the Brand Leadership Award in this upcoming World Brand Congress at Taj Lands End, Mumbai on November 4-5.
Check out our interview with him, see link An Interview With The Philippines' Foremost Marketing Expert.

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

The BLOG Manifesto

2009-11-02T22:45:00.001+08:00

HungryPeople

Just BLOG It!

LET'S BLOG!

The BLOG Manifesto

People have a voice.

YOU have a VOICE.

We WANT to HEAR IT!

So Let's HEAR IT.

BLOG!

BLOG!

BLOG!

Power has been unleashed.

YOU have that power.

YOU can choose from hundreds of FREE blogging services out there.

(There's POSTEROUS, Blogger, WordPress, Typepad and a whole lot more).

It's time to HEAR YOUR side of the STORY.

We WANT to HEAR IT!

We know YOU feel the itch.

YOU want to write YOUR thoughts, YOUR ideas.

So go blog it!

One piece of advice – JUST DO IT!!!

We PROMISE YOU it's liberating.

And blogging is the new COOL.

Are YOU Ready?

JUST BLOG IT!

Posted via email from hungrypeople's posterous

TechCruch Report: Scams Proliferate on Social Networking Sites

2009-11-02T18:03:00.001+08:00

HungryPeople applauds Michael Arrington's expose on the scams being proliferated by certain game developers and ad networks on social networking sites esp. Facebook. We hope Facebook clean up these scammers. We LOVE Facebook and wouldn't want to see its image tarnished by unethical practices of a few shenanigans.

Though ultimately Facebook has to earn money in order to keep serving the millions of people who enjoy the “social experience” it delivers – we want safeguards to be in place that we are not being duped into giving our personal information online without our permission or knowledge. Facebook is a great tool on the web but if these scams continue – one day, a better social networking site will come and give it a run for its money.

Google? Competition please.

Here are the articles connected with this expose:

Scamville: The Social Gaming Ecosystem Of Hell

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