Straight, No Chaser: The Amazing Rochelle Veturis

This is the second post in a 12-part series, TwitterPowerhouses, which focuses on the contributions of people who've helped to expand, influence, and redefine how we view social networking. I co-wrote it with fellow Huffingtonpost blogger Yasamin Beitollahi. This is cross-posted in the Huffingtonpost Media Section.

Twitter has evolved, and matured, into a tremendous source for breaking news. Co-founder Biz Stone seemed to recognize this last December when he started referring to Twitter as an "information network". From award shows to natural disasters, it has become a permanent part of the global landscape. Media professional Rochelle Veturis has long recognized the power of Twitter, and, has successfully harnessed that power for clients seeking to better understand social media.

Having worked with hundreds of media outlets in 2009 alone, Veturis doesn't entertain the false choice of Old Media or New Media. The choice, she explains, is to constantly work at improving how we source and present the news. As we move forward, she is very clear that Twitter will factor strongly in that process.

Veturis is a dynamic visionary and dream merchant, creating opportunities for herself and others, and adding tremendous value to whatever she endeavors to do. This interview below reveals her as a beautiful example of what is possible, and certainly probable, when you explore the depth and scope of your talents and skills.

It's clear to anyone visiting your Twitter feed that you like having fun, and connecting with people. Tell us how your Twitter experience has enriched your life.

That's a great question because before you know it, magic is happening with your followers on Twitter and it's important to stop and appreciate that. I've met witty, upbeat people from all over the world whose tweets have the power to make me smile and on occasion, laugh out loud. These people and their-mini conversations have brought me such joy; no one really talks about that but it's true. When I got engaged last November, I was able to share it with my tribe thanks to my sisters Haley Veturis and Chelsey Veturis, who captured the magic with a flip while hiding in the bushes. The outpouring of love, encouragement and well wishes was beyond heartwarming. Instances like these make you realize just how deep these 140-character relationships really are. I've learned to not underestimate this. It's not about numbers, it's about people.


In 2009, you worked with more than 400 newsprint, television and online media outlets. In what direction do you see media going, particularly over the next decade?

That's an interesting question because while most media outlets have taken a hit, there are still these amazing success stories. I know it's uncomfortable for journos to think about their own branding, but for those that have, they've benefited. How neat is it that with social media, you build up these networks of fans and followers who know, like and trust you and no matter where you go, what publication or station you work for, you always have them? You can take your influence with you from place to place. It's a huge way to over deliver, especially if you're looking for work. I'm a firm believer in dig the well before you're thirsty; for media that have done this before they transitioned or were laid off, they've reaped the rewards.


You work with business and government organizations to get them to see the wisdom of participating in the "socialmediasphere." How do you believe your efforts are paying off?

I see that my efforts pay off when I wrap up a workshop or coaching session, and see the fear lift off people. I'm pretty much a cheerleader; rooting people on and helping them focus on the things that if they were honest with themselves, they already know are true. For instance, government workers know that they should treat constituents as clients or customers who, in the private sector, are the lifeblood of any company. When you make this mindset tweak, it makes life easier. Suddenly, extra requests become opportunities to shine and you find yourself happier and less stressed. And with today's climate, who wouldn't want that? For an excellent customer service advocate in the government sector, check out Orange County's TedNguyen. He's ground breaking in this arena.

I've also seen these efforts pay off when a follower gets a piece of national media coverage as a result of a video my sister Chelsey and I create. When non-profits are recognized and financially supported as a result of your tweets or live coverage, it's powerful. This game is all about influence and as you see the influence of traditional media shrinking, other sources, many of them social media related, sprout up in their place. What will you use your influence for, good or evil? It's your choice.


What are the unique challenges working for a sustainable design firm (LPA, Inc.)? And how have you used social media to overcome those obstacles?

One of the challenges for any design firm is that often, you're working with prospective clients who have never visited the buildings you've designed. Although this is crucial to hiring any team, it's not always feasible. We use social and multi-media to get people as close to our work as possible. One of the ways we do this is through video. LPA's YouTube channel is chock full of videos from projects, to culture videos with unscripted interviews from each of the firm's principals, to client interviews and even an energy audit. Visitors can learn the behind the scenes stories on projects, more about our client and why certain design decisions were made, all from the comfort of their computer. We've seen our brand awareness increase dramatically because now people from all over the world are being given the tools to connect with our work, in a way like never before.

Our blog has also been key. As leaders in the sustainable, now integrated sustainable design movement, it was important for us to own that role online as well. Because LPA works with many different clients (government, corporate, K-12, colleges and universities, developers, etc.) through many different services (architecture, planning, engineering, interior design, landscape architecture, signage and graphics), the topics were endless. In a world of 'greenwashers,' we want to be informative, helpful and available to our readers; and give them the content to help distinguish the apples from the oranges so that they can make the best decision for their situation. After all, it's all about them and when you have this attitude in life and social media (i.e. It's not about you, it's about others needs first), that's when the magic happens. And that's what we're seeing now.


For entrepreneurs that are just getting started with their business, do you recommend they integrate social media into their marketing strategy or should they wait?

Yes, entrepreneurs absolutely should integrate social media into their communications and marketing strategies as soon as possible. Because social media involves various levels of outreach, which, for the most part, all connect to each other, it's important to take the leap and just start somewhere. I recommend, begin where you're most passionate. All of your networks should connect to each other and make it easy for visitors to know they're on your official page, whether that's Twitter, Facebook, YouTube channel, etc.

Remember that social media is the Wild Wild West; anyone who tells you they have it all figured out needs to take a humility pill. Especially when you're using social media for company brands, be creative. Don't settle for mediocrity (aka setting up your accounts and using them merely to promote yourself). Walk the walk, and be interested in others. Ask your tribe questions; play around and give them more of what they're most receptive to. Leave room for spontaneity and fight the urge to automate. I know it's tough, but you're not going to get the best results. Remember, experiment until you find that sweet spot where the magic is happening. And don't settle for anything less.


How would you define yourself in 140 characters or less?

Incredibly blessed woman. Founder of the #LoveFest tribe. Enthusiastic, driven, lover of children, animals & people in general. Mac Snob too. (Laughs)

To read more about Rochelle Veturis' awesome approach to social media, log on to her site RochelleVeturis.com. You can also follow Veturis on her Twitter feed, and connect with her on her Linkedin page.

Authors' Note: In case you missed it, here's Part 1 of the series: Flipbooks and the Power of Twitter.

Stephen Colbert: Master Interviewer

Though Stephen Colbert is on Comedy Central, the interview he did below with former U.S. Congressman Harold Ford was very uncomfortable to watch. People forget that Colbert is not only funny (incredibly funny), but that he is also a world class interviewer. And Ford learned this the hard way.

Ford's sometimes right-of-center views have been putting him in a pickle in left-leaning New York, now that he's been rumored to be running for a U.S. Senate Seat. Verdict: Harold Ford's pandering to Colbert won't be enough to put him in the U.S. Senate.

WATCH:

The Colbert Report	Mon - Thurs 11:30pm / 10:30c
Harold Ford Jr.
http://www.colbertnation.com/
Colbert Report Full Episodes Political Humor Economy

I Love This Picture

It's one of those magical moments for a photographer. And how more magical can it be to see 5 living presidents, together at the White House?! I chose this picture because its one of my favorites. Forget politics and ideology. Think more about the collective weight of their achievements. When you look at it that way, this picture then has a kind of quiet power that's awesome. It's a picture I have to have in my library.

"Hope for Haiti" Telethon Rocked!

Last night, celebrities lent their name and time to raise money to be disseminated to the island nation of Haiti. In fact, the night was so special, so moving, so extraordinary, that it raised over $58 million! This far exceeded the expectations of organizers. But if you missed it, you can still contribute. Of course, you can donate via text or phone, or for the next six months, you can donate through the "Hope for Haiti" Web site, www.hopeforhaitinow.org.

This truly made my day!

Guest Blogger: Yasamin Beitollahi

Today's Guest Blogger is Huffington Post blogger and marketing specialist, Yasamin Beitollahi, known in social media for her enthusiasm for technology, and her love of cooking. She graciously allowed me to share her great post with my readers. You can follow her on her Twitter feed and friend her on Facebook page. This is an awesome piece below is about what's being done to positively impact the island nation of Haiti.

Global Aid Pours into Haiti

by Yasamin Beitollahi

Haiti is a nation plagued by diverse issues. With a population of 8 million, most of whom are living on less than one dollar per day, Haiti is considered to be the most poverty-stricken country in the Western Hemisphere. In addition to its high unemployment rate (80%), the country is also plagued by food shortages, poor drinking water, lack of education, environmental concerns and shifting culture. Adding to Haiti's misery is the devastation caused by the strongest earthquake in more than two centuries that rocked the nation's capital, Port-au-Prince, located just 10 miles northwest of the earthquake's epicenter.

Despite all advances of science and civilization, humanity remains helpless when the worst forces of nature unleash devastation. Now, the nation's only defense against starvation and disease consists of relief from generous lands. President Obama commented: "For a country and a people who are no strangers to hardship and suffering, this tragedy seems especially cruel and incomprehensible."

Yet even as the earthquake has shaken us to our core, heroism and humanity strengthen the foundations of our global family. Courageous, exhausted, rescue workers, scramble through crippled neighborhoods, digging with their hands, refusing to give up on life. A worldwide outpouring of compassion and generosity now laps at Haiti's shores, quietly defying nature's brutality. UN data reports that at least $567.67 million has been pledged by individuals, countries, companies and international organizations to date.

Soon after the earthquake struck near the nation's capital city, Port-au-Prince, the Red Cross mobilized fund raising efforts through the social networking site Twitter.

Just before 10:00 pm (PST) on January 12, @RedCross tweeted:

"You can text 'HAITI'

to 90999 to donate $10 to Red Cross relief efforts in #haiti."

As of today, donations via text message for the American Red Cross's Haiti relief efforts reached over $21 million. Verizon Wireless spokesman Jeffrey Nelson, commented "These are donors who are typically the hardest to reach: young people. They're reacting to something that affects them and realizing their few dollars can make a difference. Texting has opened up a whole new world for philanthropy."

Cycling ace and humanitarian Lance Armstrong's Livestrong foundation has pledged $250,000 to support relief charities working to rebuild earthquake-devastated Haiti. The former Tour de France champion is giving generously to help those left homeless after the disaster and he's urging fans and friends to do the same.

In a video message posted on his website, Armstrong says,

"I think what's on top of everybody's mind is the earthquake in Haiti and the devastation we all have seen on television or the newspaper or the internet. Some say more than a 100,000 lives (have been) lost. On behalf of Livestrong and everybody at our organization we'd like to pledge $250,000 for the relief efforts down there for two primary organizations: Partners In Health - great friends of ours doing great work in that country - and also Doctors Without Borders."

Alyssa Milano, a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, donated $50,000 to the charity's Haiti earthquake relief efforts, and has made a "Tweet Challenge" on Twitter asking corporations to match her donation.

The actress and philanthropist writes on Huffington Post:

"I challenge any corporation to match my $50,000 donation to the U.S. Fund for UNICEF. 100% of every dollar will go directly to supplies that include tarpaulins, water-purification tablets, oral rehydration salts, family water kits, medical supplies, medical kits, food, shelter, and protection."

Musician Wyclef Jean, whose homeland is Haiti, is asking people to donate to Yele Haiti to help with disaster relief for earthquake survivors. So far, Wyclef Jean's nonprofit organization, Yele Haiti, has raised over $1 million for the victims of Tuesday's devastating earthquake from mobile donations alone. Yele's goal is to up that figure to $1 million a day as part of the SMS fundraising drive. With a series of urgent tweets, an appearance on CNN and the help of his famous friends the singer has mobilized a massive effort on behalf of his homeland, imploring followers to text "Yele" to 501501 to donate $5 to the effort.

Virgin Atlantic is flying much-needed aid along with key medical personnel, aid agency workers and rescue teams to the region in the wake of the Haiti earthquake. The aid and personnel will be flown out on a number of Virgin Atlantic flights to Miami, Orlando and Jamaica over the coming days. From there the aid agencies will arrange for the essential supplies to be transferred to Haiti. The airline has already committed to flying a minimum of 55 tons of cargo. Virgin Atlantic is also working with a number of other charities, including Save the Children and Oxfam, to assist them in their efforts to get crucial aid supplies and personnel to the region.


WAT-AAH!, the first functional bottled water marketed to kids donated 40,000 lbs of bottled water for Haiti relief.

Though its own facilities were severely damaged by the massive earthquake, Doctors Without Borders/Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) field staff have been establishing temporary clinics in order to treat injured men, women, and children in Haiti. MSF was able to respond immediately because international and national staff had already been running several projects in country.

Spurred by actor George Clooney and MTV, 11 broadcast and cable television networks have signed on to air a two-hour telethon Jan. 22 that will benefit the earthquake victims in Haiti. "Hope for Haiti," presented by MTV Networks, will air commercial-free at 8 p.m. on ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, CNN, BET, The CW, HBO, MTV, VH1 and CMT. The event, which will raise money for five relief organizations working in the ravaged country, will be hosted by Clooney in Los Angeles, singer Wyclef Jean in New York and CNN anchor Anderson Cooper in Haiti.

Haiti faces a bleak future. Its people need manpower, medicine, food and clean water. The impact of the earthquake is devastating, but the emotional and physical reverberations will wreak even more havoc if we don't increase humanitarian aid now. The international outpouring of help displays humanity's better angels -- a global sense of grief and sympathy.

And remember the people of Haiti in your prayers. May God give them strength in the days, hours, and months ahead.


Other ways to join the outpouring of humanity for Haiti: Clinton Bush Haiti Fund, UNICEF (1-800-4UNICEF), Direct Relief, Partners in Health, World Food Program, Mercy Corps (1-888-256-1900), Lambi Fund, The International Rescue Committee, Care, William J. Clinton Foundation, Meds & Food For Kids, Feed the Children, Habitat for Humanity


These resources include the highest-rated charities by Charity Navigator, which is an independent, nonprofit organization that evaluates charity groups based on effectiveness and financial stability.

Rising to the Occasion, and Living the Dream

On January 15, 1968, Dr. King spent his entire birthday in the basement of Ebenezer Baptist Church. He was there all day with white activists from Appalachia, and Latinos, African-Americans, Asian-Americans, Native-Americans and other groups from around the United States. He believed in understanding the color-specific differences that make us unique, and vigorously embracing the color-blind commonalities that bring us together.

And at this very moment in time, Dr. King would be immensely proud of how international citizens, through the power of technology, have marshaled tremendous resources to help the island nation of Haiti. From Alyssa Milano’s wonderful $50,000 Tweet challenge, to the upcoming telethon George Clooney is organizing in concert with MTV Networks, socially conscious celebrities are also lending a hand.

However, Dr. King would be most proud of the dedication, and creative thinking, many nonprofits and charities are employing to assist Haiti. Care, The Red Cross, OxFam, Charity: Water, Yele, and so many others are making a difference. The most powerful way they’re making a difference is through the successful fundraising campaign involving texting. The Denver-based mGive Foundation is running the campaign for Haitian Relief. In fact, they raise money on behalf of 200 charitable organizations by text messaging.

Tens of millions have already been raised. According to the social media website Mashable, more than $20 million was raised on January 17 alone after it urged its readers to give generously. All of this speaks volumes about the human spirit, and the power of social networking sites.

Parts of this glorious, beautiful world have always been in pain. This is what fueled Dr. King’s thought-provoking sermons; his well-attended marches; and his awe-inspiring acts of civil disobedience. He felt connected to the world’s pain. He believed that forming constructive partnerships was the best way to affect change. The texting campaign for Haiti would most certainly qualify.

We can use this method of charitable fundraising going forward to not only rebuild Haiti, but to also relieve the human suffering and degradation that exists in every corner of the globe. Embrace. Empower. Educate. Expand. Enlighten. Let's do it.

Injustice anywhere is injustice everywhere. ~Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Happy Birthday, Michelle Obama

Greetings first lady. You are, without a doubt, an amazing woman. No, not just because of your position, but because of your perspective. In one short year, you have led efforts to bring a rich diversity of cultural events to The White House. You have rallied support for the historic Lilly Ledbetter Bill, an inspiring victory by any measure. You push for greater educational opportunities and access for young people, and vigorously support military families, among other things.

There is so much on your plate. But you manage to do so much, so gracefully. You walk and talk with heads of state, and Kings and Queens, and you do it all, from what I gather, without ever losing your common touch. Yes, millions can relate to you. You run a busy office, yet your girls have to do their homework, and you and the president feel compelled to attend PTA meetings. I love the fact that you eat dinner together, as a family.

You rock, on so many levels.

Let me say this: when all is said and done Mrs. Obama, you will have transformed your position, and raised the bar to new, commanding heights of achievement. At the current rate, I wouldn't bet against it. Your success is proof of what The Woman's Movement was fundamentally about: choice. And your choices have led you to this point, where you are making sure that even greater choices are afforded to the next generation.

Continue representing the very best of what humanity has to offer. Continue to inspire the people of the world with your dazzling style, unquestionable intellect and visionary leadership. Continue to walk in the footsteps of awesome, historical women - from whose legacies we receive knowledge, and from whose spirits we receive strength.

Happy Birthday First Lady. Here's wishing you many more years of great health and happiness.