TED offices

But, I’m actually writing about TED today. You know, the Ideas worth sharing people.

Back in December, I had the pleasure of interviewing at TED. I had gone through the application process, participated in a phone interview at SFO airport (while boarding a plane) and eventually, arranged travel to New York City. Throughout this process, I was lucky enough to talk with, at great length, Executive Producer of TED Media , June Cohen. She’s smart, funny, high energy and brilliant. Just look at what TED has done for the online experience and use of video. And this doesn’t consider the work TED has done to wake up human beings around the world.

I didn’t get the job, but I did get to visit their offices and meet many of the staff – people involved in content, directing, programming, editing, digital rights and so on. And then I got a really cool job at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IndyCar. Smiles all around.

I’ve been meaning to write about TED, my experience and so on – but I’ve been waiting for the right time. I guess I just needed to make it through the Indy 500. Which I did, and it was beyond amazing. So much digital content!

2010 Indy 500 Driver Intros

And now that life is somewhat normal again, I wanted to share some of my favorite TED videos with you. I remember when I was working on ArtBabble – I referenced TED almost daily on what ideas to use in creating a devoted video site. They are amazing. So here are just a few of my picks.

I love the work of Charles and Ray Eames. I’ve visited the Eames Home and I’ve had the pleasure of working with Eames Demetrios. Now there is a video on TED. ’nuff said.

I love cooking. I love England. I love Jamie Oliver (and Gordon Ramsey). And we need to eat our greens. So here you go.

And how about Elizabeth Gilbert? She’s got a smart sense of humor, she’s thoughtful, and talks about human creativity and the genius inside. Listen to her!

I could go on and on, so I’ll stop at three videos. That’s the great thing about TED. If I were to write this post again tomorrow, I would probably pick 3 different videos.

I’m interested in hearing about your favorite TED speakers or more simply, what some of your inspirations are.

Mine are still simple – be creative, be kind, and do great work.

The Biltmore

My younger,  brother-in-law also surprised us with a visit. Aside from being hilarious – he also knows technology, I mean knows everything. So he asked what apps I had for my iPhone, and an education began. Here are some of new apps he mentioned to me and some of my favorite oldies but goodies.

CardStar: I’m man that believes in carrying a money clip. This app organizes all of your discount or reward cards for easy scanning at checkouts. CVS, grocery store, the playa ball, Toys r Us, yeah, it’s all stored. You’ll be organized and your money clip will shine.

BigOven: Need to know how to boil water, make lobster bisque, a sunday roast, Chicken marsala? This app will save the day while you’re walking through the grocery store looking for paprika. Unfortunately, it won’t turn you into Gordon Ramsey.

Knocking Live Video: Wow. Turn your iPhone into a streaming web cam. Wanna give someone a home tour? Wanna stream some street racing? Wanna give a live video demonstration of _______? Get to it. Send your video to a buddy, colleague or parent. What are you waiting for? Read their blog posts here or see the demo below - 

These were some of the best apps my b-i-l mentioned, and these don’t include what I already regulary use, such as TweetDeck, Facebook, Flickr, and more recently foursquare.  But, there are a couple of other apps I’m excited to use shortly – RedLaser and Remote – it’s all about scanning barcodes for deals and controling iTunes with my phone.

Some of the apps are incredible. I remember back in November, calling home from New Zealand, using Skype via free wifi – how amazing is that? But really, in closing, can anything top The Mighty Boosh app? I know my life is complete.

I’ve missed a million apps – but I have I overlooked a must have? Let me know.