This past January, Tech in Motion: LA teamed up with Maker Studios to host its biggest meetup yet, a panel discussion exploring the effects of technology on the entertainment industry. The panel featured Maker Studios professionals, as well as entertainment industry insiders, and was graciously moderated by Geoff Plitt, a Comedian and Engineer at Maker Studios. The Maker speakers included Sam Wick (Senior VP), Ryan Lissak (CTO), Ben Collier (VP of Product), and Chris Williams (Chief Audience Officer). The other four panelists weighing in were John Elerick (YouTube Personality, Actor), Kent Speakman (Co-founder at Engageia & Fameus.me, Producer & Entrepreneur), Chris Gore (Writer & Comedian) and Taz Goldstein (Award-winning Filmmaker & Author, creator of Hand Held Hollywood).
Maker offered to host the event at their amazing space in Culver City. Their space is open and massive, a must-see venue and one of the best that Tech in Motion has had the pleasure of using. If you haven't heard of Maker Studios, they are the number one producer and distributor of online video. They develop talent, create premium programming and build brands with engaged audiences.
Like all of our events, the night started off with networking alongside some great food and drinks. The guests at this event ranged from technologists to content creators, which made for a lively discussion.The panel touched on various topics, keeping the diverse crowd interested; however, much of Maker Studios' work is focused on YouTube, so that is where a chunk of the night’s conversation laid.
The panel explained how consumption and creation of TV and film is increasingly changing due to advancements in technology and the internet. Video monetization and the changing idea of “celebrity” were also hot topics. The general consensus from the panel was that with all the technological advances we’re seeing, more and more content will be uploaded and consumed via the web. Traditional media will have to continue to compete, as there is a new, tech-savvy generation that prefers web-based entertainment.
This event was one for the books, with a record turn out and a knowledgeable panel. Most importantly, the attendees took something important away from the evening. If you missed this panel, don’t you worry - Tech in Motion LA hosts monthly events that you can RSVP for today. Make sure to join the group to receive updates, invites and more!