Hectik Social Vhirl Dahlink

So last night was both Step Two's 10th Anniversary. James Robertson was briefly in the country to host this. There's a rumour that he doesn't actually have an Australian passport & therefore can only stay here for 1 month at a time or risk deportation. If you want to put in for that working holiday visa, James, I'm happy to be a reference. The Step Two offices are quite funky & decorated in the colours of their Intranet Roadmap. Stories that every staff member has had said Roadmap tattooed on their torso remain unconfirmed. Remember everyone: See major surgery or unintentional nudity as less about pain & embarrassment and more about brand reinforcement. The food & company were good - thanks people.



Continuing the Web theme, Joe Jaffe was in town for a flying visit & a group of bloggers turned for dinner & podcasting. Joe had a camera that may count as a concealed weapon in some states & endearingly cheap sound recording equipment. I got to chat a bit to Lukas, Michael, Paull, Steven & both Sarah & Mercurius. Now a confession, Gavin "No Show" Heaton told me about this event. I had never heard of Joe (though there was an air of hushed expectation whenever he spoke*) prior to this. He seems to be doing some cool stuff & anyone willing to record a podcast with complete strangers (& involve everyone) deserves full kudos points. At one point, Katie encouraged me to share my annoying passion for value networks. The response reminded me of the effect bringing out my fourth volume of rare Begian stamps has at dinner parties. Bit of polishing on the pitch required. So good drinks & good company. Hey ho.

*Reminding me that charisma is something you ask other people to give to you.