August 6, 2016

Yesterday was another exciting day at BlogHer16.  It started with a talk by Chad Hodge, creator of the upcoming TNT series, Good Behavior, starring Michelle Dockery (Lady Mary of Downton Abbey).  Looks promising!  Next the folks from SheKnows Media discussed some exciting upgrades to their web empire coming up soon.  Then at the morning keynote presentation, Sarah Michelle Geller discussed her new projects, and life after “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.”  She is a very bright, focused young woman.  After a couple of more workshops, we gathered for lunch, and were excited to see Sheryl Crow talk about her involvement with women’s health issues, her family, and what projects she has upcoming on the music side of things.

Then Kim Kardashian West came on and was interviewed about her life and career.  Kim is an almost blindingly beautiful woman, and also has a very positive and down to earth attitude.  She works very hard on her projects and it’s no fluke that she has achieved the high level of success she enjoys.

After another breakout session, in the evening we gathered for dinner and the Voices of the Year event and reception, which was quite moving.  It’s incredible the power the authentic, talented bloggers have to express their deepest emotions, chronicle their lives, and even change the world!  That was followed by an Open Mic which shared more of the bloggers’ wonderful writing.

Right before lunch I had a chance to sit down briefly with Philippe Guelton, the charming CEO of SheKnows Media.  I asked him if men could attend the conference, and he said of course, they are welcome.  He also said since SheKnows Media had acquired BlogHer for the last two years, it’s been a very successful association.  Both entities share many of the same goals.  SheKnows Media is based in New York City, with offices in Arizona, San Francisco, etc.  He has been CEO for over 3 years.  Very nice fellow!

Today the last day of BlogHer16 wrapped up with fantastic programs, speakers, and friendly folks and even a terrific party at the end at the Conga Room in LA LIVE.  I learned so much it’s almost hard to process it all.

The day opened with breakfast and a program called The Pitch feature Sallie Krawcheck. It opened with an inspiring talk by Ms. Krawcheck, the author of Own It: The Power of Women at Work.  She’s a high profile businesswoman and had all kinds of tips and insights for women to succeed in the workplace.  She then led the Pitch, with a panel of expert judges, where women entrepreneurs present their business ideas and compete for prizes awarded later in the day.   I was impressed with the quality of all the proposals, and poise of the ladies pitching.  However, no one was surprised when www.mode-sty.com won.  This is an innovative site for women who desire more modest attire for religious or personal reasons.  Beautiful, elegant designs.  Congratulations to all the contestants in The Pitch, they were all most interesting.

Next up was an outstanding and funny workshop called “Crafting Your Pitch & Cracking the P.R. Code.”  P.R. and publishing experts led us through detailed steps on how to expertly pitch your P.R. contacts enticing, fresh and compelling content to get results.  They gave us dozens of tips on how to conduct yourself effectively and professionally in this area.  Really helpful.

Next was lunch including a fascinating, warm and refreshingly open conversation with Mayim Bialik, of the hit TV show, The Big Bang Theory.  This friendly and talented actress discussed her life, career, philosophy and new projects.  It was a delight getting to know this down-to-earth and inspiring individual.

Then there was a wonderful workshop on Diversifying Your Compensation Streams, where we learned how to make money off of your website!

This was followed by an Expo Break to pick up more swag and network.  Fun!

Afterwards I attended a moving and inspiring Closing Keynote featuring actors, activists, professionals and others all discussing the importance of treating women and minorities with respect.  They encouraged all of us as influencers to join them in promoting inclusion and fairness in the media and the workplace.

Did I mention the food was delicious throughout?  The breakfast in particular was so yummy.  There were other workshops and events going on, but these were the ones I attended.  Check blogher.com for a complete schedule.

Finally we were treated to an exciting Closing Party at the Conga Room at LA Live, a glamorous and chic location.  Then it was time to bid farewell to our friends and colleagues, and head home.  Can’t wait for BlogHer17 next year, hope to see you there!