Justin;

* I agree with you. If it isn't authentic, people will see right through it. But, I will point out that consistency doesn't mean you have to post the same type of content over and over again. Consistency also means the delivery in how you do it. For example, if you're posting a variety of content -- if it's always quality stuff, you're exemplifying no matter what you do, your output is quality.

The same can be said in regards to the thought put into a Project or your analysis. Execution speaks loudly. The subject matter can be different -- but ultimately if your "style" is injected into it, that consistency will shine through.

* Sure, you're entitled to your opinion regarding original content -- I would call the people who you described as 'content aggregators'. Certainly you can develop your personal brand around aggregation to take that form if you'd like (e.g. @jeffisageek).

BUT, anyone can aggregate, anyone can RT, anyone can use the technologies -- but original thought, content and analysis, that's something only YOU own. There will always be news to report or resources to compile.

Think about the way we judge politicians, it's similar in the sense that there is great value in hearing them speak/write their beliefs. The awareness of "the issues" is a commodity and is expected as a prerequisite.

In the end, I personally believe it has greater value to provide original content because it reflects who you are and how you think, hence exemplifying your personal brand to be seen and known.

* Per your assessment, I would agree -- the "DJ" part of my life was back in college. I was known for that (and still am with my close friends) as "DJ". However, since you've suggested it -- you'll notice I've removed it from the top right part of my blog, because you're absolutely right, it's not correctly reflective of who I am now.

I've now removed it :)

* In regards to your comment on life-casting, I do believe while I've scaled back significantly, I'm still fairly active in life-casting in what I publish. But, this originally was due in part to my participation as the first life-caster in the Midwest featured on the famed Justin.tv Website (during it's BETA period).

I literally carried a laptop in a backpack and broadcasted my life almost 24/7 here in KC. There's a decent analysis I did after my experience that provides more insight if you're interested:
http://acrosstheboard.blogspot.com/2007/10/confess...

Thanks for the great thoughts Justin! Great discussion points.

Watched the video over at Jeff's place and some great stuff in there.

A few thoughts...

- I think the idea of personal branding is important, but I think some folks can become a bit too serious about it. In fact, so much so that their social spaces begin to feel a bit stale and staged. Sure, consistency is important, but let's not forget that people like to be surprised as well. The fun in all of this are the wildcards. Yes, one needs to be mindful, but I hope people never let it consume them to the point that they can't be themselves.

- I have to disagree with you about original content being the best type of content and waiting until you have something like that to post something. I find that the ones who add value are the bloggers and tweeters who read A TON of and help connect me with the signal, as opposed to the noise. And they definitely supply some original content in the interim, but the majority of the content they share isn't their own.

- Forgive me if this seems too personal, but while I definitely get the video blogger and web consultant side of you, I don't get the DJ, lifecaster and internet addict. Sure, there's a little bit here and there, and I respect that you want to keep some of your life private. But if we take a look at a lifecaster like Julia Allison, there's really no fair comparison between you and her. In short, I want to see and hear more, and I hope you give us more in the future. Otherwise, pull back on the promise of those other aspects and focus in on the content you deliver.

Again, great stuff and I'm interested in hearing more from all.

Best.

Great presentation last night. As someone who is literally starting from the ground up with no real foundation based around anything, I definitely soaked up plenty of advice and ideas. Thanks!

Nice work last night, really enjoyed the presentation. In the realm of personal branding, I've found that giving away free things relevant to your audience helps build reputation. For example, Smashing Magazine (online web design magazine) gives away free desktop backgrounds and typefaces.

Ramsey,

I really enjoyed your presentation on Personal Branding... it was very informative. You can tell that you have your finger on the pulse. I look forward to learning and sharing more with you in the future.

tw