UltraNormal

SxSW Interactive is upon us again, and there's a lot going on (as usual). I'm trying to keep the "gotstas" to a minimum this year, but there are a few things I know I'm doing:

• Career Transitions: From DIY to Working For the Man - I'm moderating a panel that Cindy and Jason came up with over Dim Sum last year. We're on the panel with Thomas Vander Wal and Leslie Jensen-Inman. We'll be talking about the pros and cons of working at different-sized companies, the academic field and government contracting. We'll be throwing out a lot of coping mechanisms and horror stories. I'm, of course, representing "The Man". It's Sunday at 5, so come on by.
• SxSW Web Awards - Ficlets is up in two categories. I'm showing up in the off chance we beat Al Gore. I even have my speech ready.
• The International Day of Awesomeness - I was traveling way too much (and then sick) to organize anything big for IDoA, but I am performing my own feat of awesomeness on Monday. I'll be sure to take pictures.
• 20×2 - Gotsta. Love it. Remember, Max and I made a movie for last year's event, and I can't wait to see what people come up with this year.
• Break Bread With Brad - The only way to start off SxSW.
• Fray - Love it. Great storytelling, and a great event to get the creative juices flowing. Plus, we usually go to Magnolia Cafe afterwards for milkshakes.

I'm sure I'm leaving something out. Well, this year, I'm trying not to stress out or overthink it (no more repeats of this photo from last year). I'm going to go with the flow, try to be as friendly as possible, and adopt as many newbies as I can. If you're going, and it's your first time, find yourself a vet and get some tips or just hang out. SxSW can be an intimidating thing, but pretty much everyone's friendly and more than willing to help, even if they don't know what they're talking about.