I don't pretend for a second that I started the concept of "snake oil hunting", but I do think I've done something to popularize it. I've created an entire category here on Biz Podcasting dedicated to exposing the fakers. My Snake Oil category contains a list of people whom I consider charlatans. Most of them profess to be experts on the subject of podcasting, yet Google belies their experience; or they're selling outrageously priced hardware and software all in the name of sharing the "secrets" of podcasting. Some even show up to defend themselves, but end up admitting that they don't podcast.
I'm always glad to see other respected and knowledgeable podcasters join the fray against the proliferation of snake oilers. Rob Safuto has indicated that part of his upcoming trip to the Portable Media and Podcast Expo is to expose charlatans:
Now for the worse portion of my time at the Expo. Of course this depends on the way you look at it, but I’m going to be on the lookout for podcast charlatans. Podcast charlatans are the folks who are selling a phony bill of goods making outrageous claims without any reasonable data to back it up. I’ll also be on the lookout for people selling vaporware. I think it is very important that people reading this blog get the straight skinny on the tools and services available to them. Hence my tough but certainly very fair approach.
Good stuff. I'm looking forward to the reports on all parts of the Expo, but the snake oilers in particular.
So nice to finally see that you're not alone in your snake oil hunt, Jon. Part of my presentation while at the Expo will be to expose these podfakers and warn those listening not to fall for these charlatans.
I love it! I'm so glad to see more people talking about this.
Posted by: Leesa | September 25, 2006 7:21 AM | Permalink to Comment