Hello. Rodwellian here.
I'm happy that you found my little corner on the interwebs. Here, you'll find links to other places on the web I frequent. As you'll soon find out, I'm not shy and share a rather lot about myself. Proceed at your own risk.
If you want to get in touch, please drop me an email. Otherwise, happy exploring!
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Info
- Summary
I have spent 20 years helping to grow some of the world's most exciting brands and businesses around the globe. Starting my career at Procter & Gamble as a financial analyst means my approach to any business/marketing challenge is rooted in a strong analytical case, but I am always sure to let my creative side play a strong role in the final solution.
After almost 15 years working at/on Fortune 500 companies ( e.g. P&G, Amex, Unilever, eBay, Yahoo!) across 3 countries, I took the plunge in to the internet start up world 5 years ago first joining MOO.COM. It was a spectacular ride building the business in to a thriving, profitable, global and much loved brand.
Then, in early 2013, I've taken on the business leadership of an innovative and sustainable fashion brand - WOOL AND THE GANG - who offer a unique fashion experience. Our customers can either buy unique sexy stylish pieces hand crafted by artisans in Peru or make it themselves with our KNIT KITS and our online wool school.
Specialties: general management, revenue growth, business strategy, ecommerce, marketplaces, community products, global/international marketing, brand marketing, online marketing, product marketing, consumer marketing, consumer internet, b2b marketing, customer acquisition, social networking, social media, web 2.0, partnerships, business development, community building, viral marketing, product strategy, brand management, online marketing, CRM, direct marketing, analysis
Experience- Mar 2013 - PresentCEO / WOOL AND THE GANG
WOOL AND THE GANG is a sexy, stylish and aspirational fashion brand. Online we offer our gorgeous hand-crafted designs made by Peruvian artisans OR you can make it yourself with our innovative Knit Kits & online video Wool School.
Whether you choose to knit or buy a piece, the outcome is the same. You're part of our Gang who embraces the caring face of fashion and re-connection to our creative selves. WOOL AND THE GANG is championing the return to traditional craftsmanship, education, individuality and social awareness while disrupting the fashion industry by delivering fast fashion responsibly and collaboratively.
- Oct 2011 - Feb 2013Chief Revenue (Marketing) Officer / MOO.COM
As Chief Revenue Officer at MOO.COM, I have been responsible for MOO's revenue and top line growth through setting and executing MOO's product and marketing strategy while ensuring our brand is loved by all. MOO.COM cater to Prosumers, SoHos and SMEs.
We are passionate about great design and the difference it can make to our customers and the world. Launched in 2006, MOO aims to disrupt the $100 billion global print industry by combining the values of professional design with the accessibility and reach of the web: making great design available to all. Our product line includes remarkable, custom print products (starring business cards) to customers (SOHOs and SMBs) in more than 180 countries. In September 2012, MOO bought Flavors.me, a beautifully designed personal identity site. Flavors is great way to promote yourself, your business and your activity online – which complements MOO’s range of personal identity print products. We also announced a NFC-enabled business card
By applying Web 2.0 principles to a 500 year-old market, MOO has leveraged modern design, technical innovation and social media to achieve rapid annual growth and a global reach since launch. With a product range spanning business cards, greetings cards, stickers, post cards and accessories, today MOO prints millions of cards a month and has close to a million customers in over 180 countries. MOO has also become a much-loved brand, with a 75% NetPromoter rating.
The company has won 3 Webby awards (the web's Oscars), has been profiled in the Financial Times, and was ranked in the top 10 UK start-up companies by the Guardian Newspaper. MOO currently employs 100 full-time staff and has offices in London, UK and Rhode Island, USA. MOO has also raised over $5m in venture capital from the Accelerator Group, Index Ventures and Atlas Venture, the investors behind Skype, Betfair, Lovefilm, Last.fm and MySQL.
- Sept 2007 - Sept 2011VP Marketing & Product / MOO.COM
As VP Marketing & Product, my role was focused on driving revenue and growth through the creation and marketing of MOO's product line.
We are passionate about listening to our customers and using it as a guide for future success and innovation. It is through a dialogue with our customers that we are able to come up with winning products, but also how we maintain such a loyal customer base who regularly recommends MOO to their friends. Dialogues regularly occur on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Flickr, Google+, Instagram and through our own channels.
While MOO's initial success was through online partnerships with social networks, we also use more traditional on and offline marketing vehicles to reach new customers. The combination of PR, brand and online marketing has driven MOO to new levels of world-wide success.
- Mar 2007 - Aug 2007Director of Audience & Communications; Europe / Yahoo!
My team had overall responsibility for identifying key target audiences for Yahoo! in Europe, developing the appropriate propositions to meet their needs, and ensuring that the Yahoo! user, product and brand marketing strategies were executed effectively and consistently across all consumer touchpoints. Specifically, my team was responsible for brand strategy, off and online communications, word-of-mouth initiatives and our community outreach programmes. In addition, the team looks at how best to editorialize the front page (one of the most trafficked page on the internet) to make it most engaging and relevant for our users.
- Mar 2006 - Feb 2007Director of Marketing - Search & Yahoo! Answers; Europe / Yahoo!
Develop and oversee the implementation of the European marketing strategy for Yahoo! Search.
Most recently this includes the launch of the fastest growing Yahoo! property in Europe - Yahoo! Answers.
- Jun 2005 - Feb 2006Head of Marketing -Yahoo! Personals; Europe / Yahoo!
Develop the European Online Personals Business for Yahoo!. My team is responsible for acquiring new users and retaining them through a keen understanding of their needs.
- Feb 2002 - Jun 2005Marketing Director, Activation / eBay
My role at eBay Canada was to increase member trading activity and revenue developing a comprehensive customer contact strategy . Ultimately, my team was responsible for getting new eBay users to start buying and selling while increasing the usage among older members. This meant using a targeted approach to on-site merchandising, email marketing, education and community relations. My team was also responsible for the eBay PowerSeller programme.
- Sept 1994 - Dec 2001Group Director / Ogilvy & Mather/OgilvyOne- London, Prague, Toronto
Over seven years at Ogilvy, I worked across 3 different offices (Toronto, Prague and London) and 3 different communication disciplines (advertising, direct marketing and interactive). Throughout my tenure at Ogilvy, I was priviledged to work with some of the top brands and businesses both locally and internationally. Some of my clients included: IBM, American Express, Unilever, Nestle, Motorola, PeoplePC, Robin Hood Multifoods. In addition to client work, new business development and pitches was part of my mandate in both Prague and London.
- Sept 1992 - Aug 1994Senior Financial Analyst / Procter & Gamble
As anyone who worked at Procter & Gamble will know, Procter is an amazing training ground for both brand and general management. Thanks to P&G and my amazing managers for that experience. I was fortunate enough to work on a number of key consumer brands and product launches while there. My role focused on providing the financial analysis and recommendations on all brand/product investments within my remit. I also was responsible for the yearly budget process for these brands.
If I remember correctly, during my tenure I was the financial analyst on: Dental brands (Crest and Scope), Food (Pringles, Duncan Hines, Sunny D) and Laundry Profit Centre (Tide et al).
- Sept 1990 - Jun 1991Finance trainee / SJ - Swedish State Railways
I was an AIESEC trainee, stationed in Stockholm for 9 months. At the Swedish State Railways, I worked first in their corporate finance department supporting the team in day to day financial tasks. In the second part of my traineeship, I worked in the accounts receivable department
Education-
1987 - 1992Queen's UniversityBComm in School of Business
Activities: AIESEC - Vice President
Additional Information-
Websites:
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Tweets
- How can I make this stop? I'm irate RT: @globeandmail Afghan lawmakers block legislation protecting women’s rights http://t.co/5t7OnVcEsd
- T.O. help! RT @gunnarolla: #Toronto have you seen Roshelle Sookram? 14 yr-old girl went missing at Islington/Finch - http://t.co/ImNn9i2Kfr
- It seems Next & Arcadia Group (Topshop) haven't signed the pledge which supports Bangladeshi garment workers. Why? http://t.co/SWEO0rippB
- @sansharma Dalston Department Store?
- All Saints concept store in covent garden is super cool. #thebikerproject is coming tomorrow. Pop up… http://t.co/FQX6rZvFUH
- @simongoble @pglewis Wow, I"m intrigued too. Off to the park with Stanley now :)
- Super cool. Thanks for thinking of me RT @MrJdlg: One for @woolandthegang and @rodwellian http://t.co/Baaql904dd
- @mildlydiverting You could try @jonathanhowells He's nice and loves his motion graphics. I'm not sure what programmes he uses.
- Excited to see @woolandthegang 's new yoga street collection featured in today's Guardian. http://t.co/HxzHMw4ipA
- Me too. That's called too much wine RT:"@simongoble: Had such a wonderful evening with @rodwellian ... though my mind is now reeling :)"
- RT @simongoble: Had such a wonderful evening with @rodwellian ... though my mind is now reeling :)
- Love a bit of Frank RT @SpotifyUK: 15 years ago today Frank Sinatra passed away Here are 23 amazing Frank songs http://t.co/bNQWX2VJwO
- @yplan Great service. We had a brilliant last minute night out. Plus your customer service was top notch.
- I had to wait 30 years to see/hear Mirror in the Bathroom live, but thx to yplan we got last minute… http://t.co/VwyeAu7H6L
- Just another night woolandthegang clubhouse. NOT. Happy Friday to everyone. http://t.co/SWoYZexxMK
- Turns out London's Calling tonight at #whiterabbit in Dalston. #vinylliveson @obliozen this one is for you https://t.co/0EDn6eeHwu
- RT @woolandthegang: Summer internships for passionate knitters http://t.co/tgZee0l2om
- Looks like my bag got picked up by someone else. Nightmare. THX to David Hinds @VirginAtlantic for his help.#stellaremployee
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Photos
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Photos
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Posts
- Apr 03, 13
Are you addicted to Instagram? I am. It leaves Twitter in the dust, as far as I’m concerned. Instagram is all about the pretty. I am sure there are people somewhere who are using it for great social good, but I am not one of them and, sadly, I do not follow any of them. No sirree, my IG feed is all about the fluff. Pictures of cats (LOTS of pictures of cats!), pictures of pretty things, of food, of decor, of outfits. Yes, Interweb, I am as deep as a petri dish and Instagram allows me –nay, encourages me– to embrace that fact.
So, one of the folks I follow on IG is the very sweet Timnah of Created and Collected. Lots of ladies who sell vintage post pics of their lovely wares on their feeds. And the other day, Timnah posted the cutest, 1950s, bustled, bombshell, cotton dress. I casually inquired what size it was. Gentle Reader, it was MY SIZE.
Now, you know my #1 Vintage Shopping Rule: if it is your size, it is your dress. Period. The end.
There can be no dilly-dallying– a vintage frock is truly one-of-a-kind. A girl has to strike while the iron is hot. So I did. About a week later, this sweet little item arrived in the mail.It’s home-made and I will need to do a bit of work to get the bustle (heck, yeah– I said bustle!) to sit properly, but I love the tucks in the bust region and, since it is vintage, the bodice is short-waisted, just like me. I know it’s a bit risky and probably not very smart to wear a bustle– who needs more junk in the trunk? But I am gonna do it anyway. I love that some girl made herself a bombshell dress with a BUSTLE!
I bet she had a great time in this dress.
I bet she was a total dish.
- Apr 01, 13
So, as you probably know, Pantone (they are the official, world-wide gods of colour trends) have declared the colour of the year to be Emerald Green. Congratulations, Emerald Green– you deserve the honour!
If you have been following this blog, then you may have guessed that I COULDN’T BE HAPPIER.
I love this colour. I wear it every chance I get. It is one of my favourites. EVER.Which brings me to this blazer. I love love love love it.
I love the inside (black cats on the lining!) and I love the outside.
I love the fit, the fabric and the way it feels when I wear it.
I love that I can put it with pretty much anything (yes, I do think that bright green is a neutral– don’t you?)
and I do wear it with pretty much everything.Last week, I had one of those days when you get up in the morning and have no idea what to wear. Sometimes, if we’re lucky, the best outfits are born that way.
I have to say, I am pretty smitten with this one. I want to wear it every day.
It’s comfy, it’s cute and it involves my green blazer!Blazer & Trousers: H&M
One-Shouldered (you’ll have to trust me) Top : Jacob
Blue Suede Shoes: Globo
- Mar 18, 13
…SALE?!
Okay, I was at the Dufferin Mall in search of paint chips for LHR’s cousin’s house (I’m helping her to do a bit of updating) and I ended up at H&M.
As you do.And it is their mid-season sale.
And I am only human.
And these trousers were only $15!
And the adorable-but-impossible-to-see-in-my-lousy-photos black, Swiss-dot chiffon, PEPLUM-ed shirt was only $20. And the hot pink little fitted blazer was only $30.
That is all.
- Mar 12, 13
It’s March Break! (cue sound of angels singing) Which means a LOT of errands. Which means comfy shoes.
The first time I wore these shoes, no one said a word about them. Not one person. Not one word. It freaked me out a bit. I mean, they sort of make a statement, don’t you think? I thought the statement they were making was along the lines of, “Holy crap! COOL.” But then, when no one had anything to say about them, I began to wonder whether what they were really saying was, “The woman wearing these is a certifiable fashion victim.”
In the end, I decided I didn’t care because what matters is what I think and I still think they rock.I wear them all the time.
It was love at first sight for me when I saw these shoes. After all, they are an unholy marriage of all that I love: patent leather, Oxford brogues, black & white, STUDS! And I was not deterred at all to learn that the person behind them (okay, maybe it’s just her money is behind them) is none other than Madonna.
That’s right, Gentle Reader, my shoes are by Madge.
The line is called “Truth or Dare.” - Mar 10, 13
Yesterday, we went to Rob and Ann Marie’s wedding. It was filled with lots of great moments including Lucha Libre thumb wrestling, a brilliant band – tragic roundabout and lots of other surprises.
Ann Marie decided that the wedding attire should match the formal setting (one mooregate place) and for that in particular I thank her. I’ve been dying to wear this vintage number I bought with YYZ about 5 years ago in a store on Ossington in Toronto. I believe it was I Miss You. However, YYZ will correct me as her memory (at least related to shopping) is impecable.
When I bought the dress, I imagined I would cut it off at the knees so I could wear it more often. As you can see I never did cut it off and I’m glad I didn’t. Don’t worry, I never will. Like most dresses, my short-waistedness causes a little of an issue and should probably get the back adjusted, but it’s probably a thing I’ll never get around to. Other than the back, it fits like a glove and is SUPER duper comfortable. In a few pics, I see the girls need a bit of hoisting. Oh well. That’s age for you.
Here are a few shots of what I wore (and a few of what others wore). There’s more of the wedding over on flickr.
What I wore?
Dress: 60′s vintage number by Ruth Dukas (Canadian – born in Poland) bought with YYZ (read more about her here)
Ring: complete trash bought with YYZ on this trip to NYC
Earrings: Vintage silver screw-ons. I lost one
Shoes: Silver Gucci (bought 2nd hand and worn here)
Jacket: Green Opera Jacket with blue lining bought with YYZ (no label – perhaps homemade)
Bag: Silver bag bought with YYZ (there’s a bit of a theme here). I believe Aldo.In case you are wondering why there were all these Lucha Libres, Ann Marie is studying at Lucha Britannia. (Her Lucha name is Chow Mein.) If you are visiting me, ask me to take you to a night there (if they have one on). It is brilliant albeit a little scary.
- Mar 08, 13
This is the usual soundtrack that runs through my head here in London. It rains a shedload in this country. I find it rather depressing sometimes. In fact, right now I wish I could hit the slopes for some snow, but it isn’t going to happen this year. I have some big things on my horizon (work-wise) and need to focus on that and ski later.
So, in the rain I stay and I might as well make the most of it.
Luckily, thanks to Mum and Dad who were visiting in December, I have a swanky new raincoat to wear when the days are grey and rainy. We picked it up at Spitalfields. I love it because I can wear it on my bike (with a high-vis vest of course) and pull up the French Lieutenant’s Woman inspired hood.
What do you think?
I realize I didn’t take a shot with the coat unbuttoned. It looks really swanky with the top buttons undone. It changes the look and the collar again. Oh well. Perhaps another day I will post such a picture.
- Mar 01, 13
Thursday was a big day. It was my last day at MOO where I have been for the last 5.5 years. In fact this entire week has been big. There was a party on Monday where all my colleagues “got fancy”. I wish there were some photos of me as I wore my gold DVF shirt (seen here), this little Pied a Terre skirt, these Armani tights and these chunky Aldo shoes. I wasn’t really sure how fancy the evening would be, so I felt that the shoes and tights made it more edgy than fancy. As you can see from the photos below, I shouldn’t have worried. The guys and gals didn’t let me down.
The evening was spectacular and I was happy to make it to the very end of the evening without any incidents.
Yesterday was my last day and it involved an external meeting. As a result, I had to sport a dress and some heels. The dress was the one I created on the now defunct Style-Shake (worn here). My shoes were ones I picked up before Christmas in NY at Macy’s. You can see them here with some black tights with red wolford fishnets worn over top. See them below.
It was a big wonderful week including parties and shop openings. Don’t the MOO assistants look cool?
Bowie’s photo was taken by the talented Rob Wilson (MOO Photographer)
- Jan 27, 13
It’s been rather cold here in London-town of late. In fact, we even had snow. I love it! I know it will only last a few days and it reminds me of home.
As a result of the cold weather, I’ve had to think about wearing woolies every day. Given I don’t have a ton of woolen jumpers I need to think of how I might keep warm. Friday, I noticed this green vintage cardigan hanging in my closet. I hadn’t worn it in ages and thought it would do the trick.
So, the theme as you will see is Vin-tage (vin- tawzsh).
What I wore and where I got it?
Jeans – Lee. These are practically vintage. I bought them in Hampstead in 2007
Tank: Off-white wool knit by American Vintage
Cardigan – Green, hand detailed wool cardigan, do not remember where I picked it up. Probably from the 50′s
Belt – Gold metal shell buckle belt, bought at House of Vintage, London
Necklace – YYZ and I discovered this brilliant, super-cheap store in NYC where we bought tons of crap like this necklace and so much more that has not yet made it here.
Shoes: Green T-strap Mary Janes by Kurt Geiger*Angle or body? I’m not sure but I’m going to blame it on the camera angle. I really don’t think I would make a very good linebacker or quarterback or tight end or whatever the guys with the massive shoulders are called.
- Jan 21, 13
Today was a big day for me. My resignation was being made public at work. I knew after 5.5 years it was going to feel weird and also very sad to make it so final/so real with this announcement. So, I figured I should dress for the business.
Last week, while shopping for J’s birthday, I found this cute little tee.I love the idea of wearing a tie. So, I bought myself a present too. (don’t worry J did get something too). Then on Saturday, when J insisted we head to Uniqlo, I found some nice woolen tights that will become my new go-to. I bought 3 pairs – black, gray and burgundy. Watch this space, I’m sure they’ll be worn many times.
So, what do you think? Was it an apt outfit for my resignation announcement?
What I wore?
Black Ribbed Tights – Uniqlo
Tee Shirt (worn by him and her) – Volcom
Jacket – worn so many times before and again – by BCBG
Shoes – Aldo
Earrings – Pink Roses given to me by my Sister and Brother in Law
Brooch – Vintage stick pin
Ring – beaded from NY
Toque or Beanie (as they seem be known outside of Canada) – Wool and the Gang (knitted by me)
- Jan 16, 13
This
tenter, dress is a current fave. For obvious reasons.
#hides_a_multitude_of_sinsLHR sent me some amazing goodies for Christmas, including these pretty pale aqua net tights. Not wanting to reveal too much, I decided to layer them over a pair of opaque tights in the same shade as my new (!) Kate Spade shoes. I snagged the latter in the sale at Holt’s– they were tucked away in the back, rather than out on the rack, so when the salesgirl said, “Why don’t you try a size 7?” and I said, “There isn’t one” and she said, “There’s a pair in the back” I thought to myself, “SOLD!”
The necklaces are made by a former student of mine who goes by the name of Pikay Creations.
I love her work and you can find her on etsy, if you do, too.The fancy cocktail ring (cockatoo ring?) is from Target.
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Posts
- Mar 02, 13
- Jun 30, 12
- Jun 12, 12
Anyone who really knows me already knows this fact. My best friend knew I needed some cheering up of late. That's why she sent me this brilliant performance by Neil Patrick Harris at the 2012 Tony Awards. Enjoy!
- Jun 12, 12Queen's Silver Jubilee Brownie Badge
I recently found this relic from the Queen's Silver Jubilee while going through all my stuff in my parents'basement. I thought it was worth sharing given the fact that the Queen is celebrating her 60th Diamond Jubilee this year.
Where did the last 35 years go?
Update: I decided that since we were here in London we should go and see the Queen on her 60th Jubilee. Enjoy my pics of her flotilla. - Jan 08, 12
As a Canadian, I'm often pointing out Canadians and Canadians' achievements to my British colleagues. I'm sure they're sick of it by now. If you know a Canadian, you'll know I am not alone in this obsession.
Why do we do it?We do it because we live all our lives in the shadow of the most powerful country on earth. We are innundated by US news, culture, music, movies, finance, business, politics etc. We're just looking for a little way to be noticed. So, when we have our chance we jump on it. That's why we bother pointing out that Michael J Fox, Christopher Plummer and more recently Ryan Gosling is Canadian (even though he's probably spent most his life in the US). It's our little way of jumping up and saying "we exist".In Canada, we amuse ourselves by watching episodes of Rick Mercer's Talking to Americans and sharing stories of injustices to Canada's pride.Today, even Rick Mercer's antics can't bring a smile to my face due to this Canadian injustice. Yes, it's true GOOGLE of all companies has committed the biggest sin. They have decided that Canada is not quite big enough to have their own map in Real Time Google Analytics.Let' me expand. I work in the internet. I was investigating the origin of the visitors that visit our website using Google Analytics. As a Canadian, I was particularly interested in the Canadian cities where our visitors were from at that moment.So, here is what happened I clicked on the link "Canada". On the left hand side of the screen I saw a list of familiar city names such as Calgary, Toronto, Vancouver, Richmond Hill (a suburb of Toronto), Guelph, Grand Prairie, Unionville and many more. Seeing those names made me feel close to home. Yet, when I cast my eye on the accompanying map, it wasn't a map of Canada at all. It was a map of the United States of America. What the ****? See for yourself ...In case you are not familiar with the Canadian map, this is NOT a map of Canada. This is the map of Canada.I'm sure you will recognize the first map as a map of the mighty United States of America. Yet, all the cities are floating in a blue sea north of the US border.I guess it has finally come to pass, Canada is just the 51st state of the US. Please Google, sort that out to make this Canadian a little bit happier. - Jun 07, 11
I thought that title might get a little interest. As it turns out my alternate names range based on my anagram are:
Della Sir Owl to Ladle Sir Owl to Ordeal Wills to Dare Ill Slow
So, what's your alternate name? - May 07, 11The building across from us is the canvas for various graffiti artists. I captured some little men back in 2007 and J posted another find on his blog. Usually, the moment someone tags it, the authorities come in and paint over it.
About 3 weeks ago, I woke up to a horse outside of my window. Unlike our home in Primrose Hill, it wasn't a real horse, but it was still beautiful. Here's what it looked like:there was a frog too.
About a week later, a horn was added and it became a unicorn. Unfortunately, I was a little slow to capture that transition on film because not more than a few days later some wings were added. I made sure I got that one on film (*ahem* digital I should say)I was planning on making a short post about this unexpected surprise and that would be that. However, last weekend, a little tea shop and art installation (Urban Fog) popped up beside my winged unicorn in a soon-to-be renovated building. It turns out Stewy (see more of his work here) collaborated with the team at Urban Fog and added some animals announcing the tea house. I thought I would document these wonderful additions here as I am sure it will all soon disappear when the renovations begin.More about the Tea House ...The owner - Zoe - decided to use the space to create a wonderful fabric installation. It feels like you are inside a modern day cave with little cubby holes where you can sit, enjoy music and tea. You can read more about the concept and installation on their website.So, if you're in Dalston before May 21, 2011, you should check out Stewy's and Urban Fog's work. (opening times are on their website) - Feb 03, 11
Last year Dopplr sent to its users a beautiful map which outlined their business travel for the previous year. Here is an example of the map they did for Barak Obama for 2009. As you can see it was a really beautiful way of presenting data.
It seems that Linkedin has been taking a page from Dopplr's playbook. And, they've done a brilliant job. I now have a visual map of my Linkedin connections. The colours represent connected networks. If you create your own, you will see that you can decide who the colours represent by scrolling over the dots to expose the individual people.
I was surprised to see that the majority of my connections in Linkedin were associated with my time at Yahoo! This is incredible given it was only 2 years of my rather lengthy career. I guess I made lots of contacts during that time.
I'm now thinking I love my map so much I might make a set of MOO business cards with my personal map printed on them.
Go on make your own! - Dec 01, 10
Who Me?
Yesterday I was meant to speak about social media and MOO at a conference in Germany. Unfortunately, the snow in Frankfurt kept me from attending. I was rather bummed as I had worked hard on the presentation ON THE WEEKEND! Oh well.
I found this cartoon in a recent Marketing Week and felt it actually provides all the rules of social media and brands. Hey, brands and people for that matter. - Aug 04, 10
Fast Company is running an interesting experiment called the Influence Project. Evidently they are attempting to see who is the most influential person online. You would think that would be rather obvious, it has to be Ashton Kutcher and his 5 million+ followers.
It seems that influence is calculated on the number of people one can influence to sign up for the Influence Project.I have signed up as I was rather curious how it works. To date, I haven't managed to influence ONE person to do the same.
Now if you are curious and want to sign up for the project than please do click my link and show that I can influence ONE person on this interweb. If nothing else you can get your photo in Fast Company's magazine when the project is done.The Project is in Flash (big surprise) and as a result, I had a hard time screengrabbing a shot of the collage of photos. It's probably best to visit the site yourself.This project actually reminds me of a business version of the Dorito competition where J was a finalist. That is the winner was not based on the best ad but rather whether he was good at getting people to vote. (remember? I think I asked all of you to vote). - Jun 21, 10
My Aunt's 80th birthday was on Sunday. Sadly, we weren't there to celebrate. And as she has just got a new red convertible, it'll be even harder than usual to keep up with this crazy lady.
Enjoy the new wheels!! - May 25, 10
Tonight, I went to a stranger's home who I met on the internet. I know - I've broken all the rules.
Actually, I haven't been hanging out on dating sites and haven't been flirting in chat rooms. I met this stranger because of my desire to get a cat despite my allergies.
Huh? You ask.
Well, here's my story. About 3-4 months ago, I decided I really wanted a cat despite being super allergic to these creatures. YYZ was busy with her 3 new kittens and I wanted one too. I was determined to find one with whom I could live. That meant searching out a hypo-allergenic equivalent of the feline sort. That's where I discovered Siberian cats and their alleged hypo-allergenic nature.
Now isn't it clear how I ended up at a stranger's house? That's right, I went to meet a few of these furry felines to see if they could break me. That's right, super-allergy girl was in a house with 5 adult cats and 9 kittens - all Siberian - for an allergy test. I had an enjoyable 30 minutes talking to the breeder, scratching and holding the big guys and playing with the kittens. . I even got to hold my potential kitten - Aurora. I was hopeful as I was only just a bit sniffly
Only after I left the house, did the full on allergy attack happen. On my walk home, I sneezed non-stop for 10 minutes and found I was scratching wildly at my neck. That's when I knew. I knew that baby Aurora would not be moving in with me.
*sniffle sniffle - May 21, 10
Over the last few years, I've shared some video work that J has done. It's included everything from a music video for Dusk & Blackdown to product demos for to promo videos for a ballet troupe. So, it's time again to share something that is keeping him busy.
For the last few years, J has been working on a real cool road trip documentary. It's still being edited and searching for funding. However, there's a trailer and here it is.Driven, Trailer/Demo from Jonathan Howells on Vimeo.
- Mar 21, 10
I was curious as to how long it took to make a video like this one.
So, I did a bit of internet research and found another video on OkGo's website which told the story behind the video. It looks like they went to the internet for the solution and Donkey Kong for inspiration. I actually thought of Mouse Trap.
This is another video from the same guys. It made its debut years ago on YouTube, but I was glad to stumble across it again. Remember, the treadmill dance? Of course you do. Why not watch it again? - Feb 22, 10
As you all know by now, I'm Canadian and I'm a PROUD Canadian (in my Canadian way). That means a few things:
- I'll be the first to tell you if someone well-known is from Canada (i.e. Margaret Atwood, James Cameron, Tyler Brule or Kate from Lost)
- I'll also be the first to point out if something was invented in Canada (i.e. the zipper or the obviously named Canadarm)
- Of course, I'll be happy to explain the virtues of Maple Syrup, Poutine and Bannock
- I can explain the rules of curling (in fact my Mother, Sister, Brother-in-Law and my nieces are incredibly talented curlers) and know that the competition is called a bonspiel.
- Finally, I'll be quietly crossing every possible body part to ensure Canada succeeds at any competitive event, but knowing that usually we just can't rise to the occassion (we choke). Perhaps, we have a politeness gene that stops us from dominating.
Unfortunately, I couldn't stay up long enough to watch the ceremonies live. However, thanks to a certain Swedish site for connecting me with someone in the US who watched and captured the NBC coverage.
Anyway, as I sat down to watch the ceremonies, I was REALLY nervous. All of a sudden the wallflower (Canada) was taking centre stage and I was concerned we might suffer severe stage fright and REALLY screw up. What exactly I thought would happen? I'm not really sure. Perhaps, that the ceremony would be similar to Canadian TV. What you don't know any Canadian TV shows? That's hard to believe. Let me paint the picture: think LOW production values with dull storylines. No, actually lower and duller. If you dont' believe me, here a few that I'd watch as a youngster when nothing else was on the tube. King of Kensington (set in Toronto), The Trouble with Tracey (deemed worst sitcom of all time), and of course The Beachcombers (which was filmed a stone's throw from Whistler - home of the Downhill at the Olympics)
Now, can you see why I was so nervous?
My Observations
All and all, I thought the ceremony was beautiful, intimate despite the size of stadium and incredibly emotional. I loved the theatrical approach and the use of lights both on the playing field and on the audience itself. This was achieved by providing white capes to the audience which turned them in to a giant canvas. (wander here or here for some shots of the evening)
As the ceremonies continued, I was progressively prouder to be a Canadian. I loved the welcoming section featuring the 4 First Nations from the Vancouver/Squamish area. The glass totems and costumes of the First Canadians were spectacular. The procession of the athletes with a special focus on Canada made me a little weepy.
Generally, the *journey* across Canada featuring different parts of Canada's landscape and culture was wonderful. I loved the fact that Donald Sutherland was the English voice of Canada. Then, Sarah McLachlan surpassed any expectation I would have had. (she is still one of my all-time favourite singers).
Wheat
Uploaded by praguelondon.
The photo above featured one of my favourite moments. Donald Sutherland introduced the prairies with a quote from Who Has Seen The Wind by W.O. Mitchell. The aerial dance by Thomas Saulgrain was accompanied by one of my all time Canadian favourites - Joni Mitchell. It was utterly dream-like.On a fashion note, I loved the white suits worn by all the background dancers and flagbearers. If you would like to know more about Olympic fashion, wander over to YYZ's post.The 8 Canadians (listed below) chosen to carry in the Olympics flag were all deserving recognition for their unique accomplishments and provided a rich weave of Canadian fabric.- Donald Sutherland
- Betty Fox (Mother of the most inspirational Canadian who ever lived - Terry)
- Bobby Orr (if you don't know this guy, you clearly aren't Canadian)
- Anne Murray
- Jacques Villeneuve
- Barbara Ann Scott
- Romeo Dallaire (was really thrilled to see RD)
- Julie Payette
All this being said, I wouldn't be a Canadian without a big BUT. I would be remiss if I didn't mark a few of the cringe moments.- Where was the FRENCH? Honestly, I kept waiting for it in the cross-country poetic tour of our country. I didn't hear it ONCE. I loved the quotes and songs that were so carefully chosen from W.O. Mitchell (which reminded me of grade 10 English class) to one of my favourite Joni Mitchell songs ever. Donald Sutherland's distinctive and soothing voice made each quote come to life. Yet, still I waited for a few French quotes or at least ONE. I kept saying to J "what about French?". We're Canadian, not American. That means a country with two official languages. What is this? Turns out, I wasn't alone in this concern.
- Why did we screw with our national anthem? I think the young woman who sang has a wonderful voice and her outfit was fab (as YYZ points out Dsquared designed it), but I hated the jazz version.
- The Olympic Cauldron was to be lit in a very Canadian manner - that is rather than choosing just one torch bearer, they chose 4. Sadly, there was some malfunction and the 4th column didn't rise and left one of the torch bearers without a column to light. I suspect someone was swearing profusely at the malfunction. Ahh... Poor Canada.
Flames Abound
Uploaded by praguelondon.
Don't get me wrong the ceremonies were great and I was rather veklempt when I heard the words and sentiments of a relatively unknown Canadian poet. Yes, I AM CANADIAN ;)
Now I'm off to watch more Olympics and you can see I'm wearing my Canadian colours. - I'll be the first to tell you if someone well-known is from Canada (i.e. Margaret Atwood, James Cameron, Tyler Brule or Kate from Lost)
- Dec 08, 09
On Saturday, J and I were intent on starting our Christmas shopping. However, we also wanted to take in a bit of culture at the same time. We were in luck. Hidden Art was on and we figured we could pass a few studios on the way down to the East London Design Show which was part of Hiddent Art. (If Hidden Art sounds familiar, I've mentioned it before as we've been we've been a few times before- I wrote about it back in 2007).
We ended up seeing 2 groups shows and the opening of Gerry Juddah's Babylon show at Flower Galleries in Shoreditch. We just happened on the show and felt so lucky to have stumbled on such a powerful show.
I'm not much of a writer or art analyst. Although, I do know when I saw these scultped paintings, I couldn't take my eyes off of them. As you maybe able to see from the photos above, each painting/sculpture shows what appears to be a miniture city (but blown out) and all the details of the cityscape. The stark colours (they were painted white, black or wine/rust) on such a detailed sculpture ensured one would notice the details of the city even more than if the city was painted in technicolour.
If you are in London, try to visit the Flower Gallery. It is definitely worth the visit. The Small is Beautiful Exhibit that was exhibiting upstairs was also a pleasant surprise. Plan to take enough time to explore both. - Dec 03, 09
I discovered this amazing video via our twitter feed at work which thanks to the lovely D and the other team members always has a wealth of fun stuff to distract you from your other duites. So check it out.
Here is a short video that should amaze anyone when you begin to think of the intricate work that went in to making it. I loved it and decided to post it here so I won't forget about it or lose it.
Here is what Creative Review said about it.Using around 3,000 still images, Andersen M Studio has animated an extract from Maurice Gee's novel, Going West, for the New Zealand Book Council...
Now that you watched it you can appreciate it took 8 months to complete. Beautiful. Let's read books. - Oct 29, 09
Thanks to my friend, Gosia, I was treated to an unexpected treat this evening. She sent a link to the following video out to some of us on her email list. I clicked to YouTube and within 10 seconds I was hooked.
Many of you may have already seen this video from Kseniya Simonova. She was on Ukraine's Got Talent and does she ever. She's 24 and created a series of sand pictures which depicted German's invasion during World War II.
I think it is amazing and in this day of short attention spans; I managed to watch for the whole 8 minutes. I would encourage you to do the same. - Oct 26, 09On Sunday night, I attended one of the best birthday parties I've ever attended. And, the best bit was it was a SURPRISE birthday party for me. I was caught off guard because like all surprise parties, there was a lot of secrecy involved. Also, my birthday was the last thing on my mind as I approached my Aunt's home. Remember,
- I was visiting my Aunt's for dinner (natural event as I had not yet seen her since I had come back to Canada)
- my birthday was over 15 days away
- this year is NOT a big birthday
- it wasn't my birthday
My first thought was I wouldn't get to dress up as Barbie as I hadn't brought a change of clothes. Boohoo! I'd miss out on the dress up component of this soiree. Oh no! Thanks to my Aunt and her many visits to Value Village I had a wardrobe of clothes & accessories to choose from and felt right at home in my Barbie-wear. [I'll post all the outfits of the evening on my other blog.] However, I wanted to share some of the decor and silliness here that my Aunt Kathy had planned so perfectly.
Here's a few shots of the evening's antics.Here's the amazing woman behind the craziness
dressed in her Barbie outfit:
yellow polyester pant-suit with wig (which no-one realized it was one)
All of my remaining Barbie stuff made an appearance at the festivities
(including the United Airlines airplane, bungalow and bathtub)
Here are a few of the presents & cards I received:
Did you notice the 41 year old princess card?
I received a new carry-on suitcase (I think it's my colour).
It's ideal for all my work travelTurns out it's better built for Barbies than a laptop.
I also received a new matching handbag (backpack) and wallet.
My cousin embellished the wallet with small hearts
My family thought this sleeping bag would be perfect to keep me warm on all those Trans-Atlantic flights.
I'm tempted to pull it out on flight back to London on Virgin-Atlantic.
Given my reputation of being late for events, they felt an alarm clock was in order:
And even more Barbie themed gifts:
Other gifts included a foot-care & massage set (for the days out in heels),
a fun desk emoticon calendar and a Barbie Video.
Here is the dinner table with guests from the soiree:
This was a special glass for the Princess Barbie (moi).
In fact it was a glass from my grandparent's
50th anniversary over 30 years ago.
My Barbie Pink Cake
Now for the thank yous. I want to thank everyone for coming to my birthday party and playing along (i.e. dressing up, bringing their Barbie and sharing their Barbie stories). In particular, special thanks to Aunt Kathy for the idea and the organization of the party. Plus a call out to my very own Aunt Barbie (who also happens to have the same last name as Barbie and is married to her very own Ken-- how cool was I growing up?) for hosting the festivities at her home.
PS if you loved Barbie's too, you might enjoy E's post about her Barbie collection.
PSS More photos from the evening can be found on flickr.
*sadly, Julie was sick; Al & Maggie were across the country. Yet, my other sister was there (E) - Sep 17, 09I often find myself peering over J's shoulder to see what's happening on his computer screen. Sometimes, I find it filled with designs for anything from chocolate to pitas to dog treats. Other times, I might get a glimpse of a travel company's brochure, signage for a gala event or even a dubstep video.
The last few days have been filled with dancing words for the Bach Festival in Montreal. I maybe biased but I love the idea and the execution. (Watch it full scren and turn up your sound to enjoy)Montreal Bach Festival 09, English version from Jonathan Howells on Vimeo.
- Sep 12, 09Last weekend we spotted this poster in the Tube for Stella Artois. As an aside, I never drink Stella Artois as I was once told that it was rated the worst in blind taste tests. However, the purpose of this post is not to discuss its virtues rather this poster.
The ad as you can see is eye-catchingly retro. It even features a suave French gentleman who definitely pleases my eyes. However, that is not what grabbed our attention. Surprisingly, it wasn't even the classic car for J.
No, it was the old CBC logo that was included in the poster that got our tongues wagging. We just couldn't figure it out. Why would they take an old logo and cut it in to pieces and include it here.
It is the CBC logo isn't it? (here's the 70's logo). Am I missing the idea of the ad? Is it supposed to be recycling old logos? I doubt it. Who in the UK even knows what the CBC is. Any ideas about this ad? Anyone? - Sep 09, 09I think the moment this is posted, I'll realize I am about 6 months behind its discovery, but I don't care. I LOVE it.
A bit of background. I work in an office that loves to share. We share commentary (on anything and everything), jokes, websites, technology, DVDs, books, advice, opinions and everything else you can think of. Most days I ignore what is being passed from in-box to in-box. However, tonight I happened to click on what one of my colleagues (who rarely shares) sent around. There was no commentary associated with this link but I clicked anyway.
The link led to a page filled with YouTube video screens. There was a line of text which read "play these together, some or all, start them at any time, in any order" So, I did. And, I loved what happened. I started with 3 screens and then quickly added another and another and another. Wow, I'm a conductor, DJ, producer all in one. So, not only did I get that good feeling of creating, it also gave me something to write about here which I haven't done in a LOOONG time (YYZ-LHR and the MOO Cryptic Quiz have been keeping me busy)
By the way this brilliant idea was conceived by Darren Solomen.
Could someone now break it to me and tell me how out of touch I am with this find. - Jul 14, 09
The summer before I started university, I worked at Lincoln Motor Inn in Niagara Falls, Ontario. This was 22 years ago (eek!), so I was rather excited to see that 1) Lincoln Motor Inn still existed and 2) it has a website. They've come a long way!
Having grown up close by and then working in Niagara Falls one summer, I've visited Niagara Falls probably 100s of times and I know I took them for granted. They are pretty impressive when you get up real close.
It's just that when people especially from the UK find out that I lived 15 minutes from Niagara Falls, they always seem in awe. Little do they know that after you spend 20 minutes looking at the Falls you then have to spend the next few hours in amusement hell on Clifton Hill surrounded by thousands of toursits. That's probably why I don't always think so kindly on The Falls.
So, when I saw this post today on Fubiz, my first thought was why would a cool site like Fubiz feature Niagara Falls on their site. Well I think the video shows that even amusement hell can be beautiful.Niagara Falls in Motion from Matthew Wartman on Vimeo.
- Jul 15, 09A few weeks back J and I decided to do something we had been talking about for ages. We decided to be spontaneous and take a day trip down to the seaside. We've lived here 4 years and have never gone for a day on the beach. We felt it was high time we found out what the fuss was all about. We jumped on a train to Brighton and spent the day down relaxing on the stoney beach and checking out the fun and games of the pier. And of course a lot of great people watching. Here's a few shots that capture our day:
A great shot of the deck chairs we didn't rent. We went for the slightly cheaper option of our portable beach blanket which we purchased in the post Xmas sales and have been waiting to use.We had a few hour rest on the beach. Ahhh bliss.
Brighton Boogie on the Boardwalk. Seeing these dancers made me a bit depressed that we have failed with our Swing Dancing lessons. We'll have to get back on that horse again.
We helped another couple take their requisite postcard Brighton shot so they volunteered to help us. We had to oblige.
We tried our luck at the penny arcade. Of course I lost more than I won, but did cut myself off at £2. As always J was attracted to the Star Wars connection.
We took a short break after our try at gambling sitting in the *free* deck chairs (introduced in '84) on the Pier overlooking the big blue sea. The Pier was built in 1899 and is the second most visited leisure facility (hmmm interesting term) in the UK according to the Pier's website. If you want to get a real sense of tacky fun the Pier has to offer, visit their website and make sure you have your speakers on.
We checked out all the crazy rides on the Pier. However, we didn't partake.
We found a cute little oyster bar along one of *the Lanes* for a glass of champagne and early dinner. We loved the communal marble tables, dripping candle wax and of course the fish. What a perfect end to the perfect Brighton Day!
Fish decor inside Riddle & Finns.
And finally, the sunglass pose to prove it is sunny in England (sometimes - not as I type this post)
