Introducing the private social network. A personal approach to social media that introduces a new layer of trust to online interaction.

One of the main things I've been talking about during my on-air segments looking back at 2007 and forward to 2008 is the socialization of the Internet. Social media, led by Facebook, helped drive millions of users to levels of interactivity that they'd previously abstained from engaging in.

This wave of social change fostered a new and accessible approach to Internet use and organization. I'm excited by the new ways I've seen people use the web in the last year, and I anticipate the year ahead to continue this rapid pace of innovation.

One of the benefits of self-identified social networks is the layers of trust that can be developed amongst friends and contacts. In the past year I've been using facebook to share things with my friends, in a privileged semi-private environment.

However as fun and accessible as facebook is, it has its own set of problems, and evolving rules and regulations. This effectively allows Facebook the arbitrary power to ban or suspend people from their platform without having to give any reason or explanation. I've had this happen to a few friends, and quite frankly that's the sort of power I like to reserve for myself.

So therefore in 2008 I'll be using my website as a personal social network. A secure environment for my friends, associates, contacts, supporters, clients, and anyone genuinely interested in my work, to have special access to what I'm doing as well as each other.

Welcome to my new website! I've imported most of the items from my old site, and will continue to modify and improve this new iteration. If you've come here looking for something that has moved, feel free to contact me directly.

The old website was really just a blog. This new platform does include my internet ramblings, but it also showcases my professional abilities and services. Hence the .com domain.

While many people are familiar with my interest in open source technologies, my career is multi-disciplinary and encompasses many areas of expertise. A lot of of these things weren't properly promoted up until now.

For example, my broadcasting work is quite diverse. Although you may be aware of my technology journalism, you may not know about my position as the host of an interfaith television show.

Similarly, my consulting work has often been associated with open source software. However, the majority of my recent contracts have focused around the business applications of social media.

I also do a lot of public speaking, at conferences and other events, yet most of these opportunities arise by accident. People often tell me that I should be promoting myself more in this regard, as I consistently entertain, inform, and inspire my audiences.

The people I work with understand the unique perspective and skills I bring to everything I do. Their words, in the sidebar at right, help illustrate the impact I've had on them.

In general, I tend to be fairly accessible and responsive, so please feel encouraged to get in touch. I'd love to hear from you. :)