The original idea was for beer, darts, and a chat about the podcasting weather in a pub called the "Bricklayers Arms" in central London.
I was vaguely nervous before arriving, wondering whether the introduction of Adam's celebrity status, and the imagined smell of Podshow capitol, might unbalance things in the small (but diverse) UK scene, and cause the whole shindig to be a big disapointment.
My fears proved pretty groundless, and whilst it was obvious that the Podshow guys were there to touch base and to get a feel for the UK community, they were careful to do so in a respectful and relaxed way.
It was thoroughly enjoyable afternoon, and showed once again the power inherent in podcasting and social-media, to bring people together from all parts of the country and from all walks of life.
VERDICT: A hugely entertaining day..
Adam Curry
Adam is the producer and host of the influential Daily Source Code and one of the innovators helping to drive the growth of podcasting. He came over as a very personable and approachable guy, and was kind enough to give me an interview. Check back shortly for the latest dvoxpopz if you want to hear that, and a few other things from the day..
Barry 'BURBs'
Barry has been running the BURB's website for over 10 years now. The site is host to 2704 bands, and is both a unique resource, and home to an ever expanding and eclectic selection of British Independent music.
Paul Pinfield & Ron Bloom
Paul is a great bloke, who actually drove several hours out of his way to give me a lift to London. (Cheers mate!) He is the host and producer of the Calmcast podcast, editor of PodcastUserMagazine, and has about 100 great ideas a week!
Ron is the co-founder of the Podshow Podcast Network and a musician to boot! He's also very fond of the odd cigar! ;)
Paul 'Parky' Parkinson
Parky is total geezer and hosts (along with his wife Janet) the Flashing12 Podcast
Neil Dixon
Neil is a very talented guy who founded the Britcaster site, and is host of the podcast A Minor Technicality. Somehow he finds time to produce several other shows and co-run creative communications agency Audacious.
Chris Vallance
I had a nice chat with Chris about news, media, and podcasting. Chris works at the BBC for Radio Five's 'Pods & Blogs' show. He also hosts his own weblog and podcast at Pocket Planet Radio.
Simon Toon
My mate and all round poetry podcasting hero, Mr Simon Toon. Arrives at the event after enduring several hours of transport hell! Simon is the host and producer of the Slam Idol podcast, and all round great bloke to boot!
NOT Roger Smalls!
Despite an intensive search, and various 'unnoficial sightings' Mr Smalls was once again sadly unable to attend the event. He did however manage to sell rather a lot of T-shirts with his name embazoned upon them. Sadly, this podcaster was unable to find one in time, and instead was forced to rely on the hurried improvisation of an unamed friend!
