To give you an idea of 500 million, that’s the popuations of the US, Japan and Germany, combined. Watch ABC clip.

I recall some study saying that “genius” and “madness” are linked. I submit that Mel Gibson supports that claim. (Brian Wilson, Van Gogh and Phil Spector are other good examples.) The takeaway I get from all these celeb cases is that fame, and fortune, and celebrity, come with a price. And, if one is careless, a respected personal brand based on a lifetime of painstaking work and exceptional achievement can come crashing down in a matter of hours.

Can anything repair his personal brand?

See more examples

New Apple iPhone spot:

Follis created spot for Crest (1998)

NewTeeVee has apparently been tipped off by “sources” that Apple will not only release a new Apple TV but that streaming TV show rentals are also on the way. Apple’s waning interest in one of its own products that Steve Jobs calls a “hobby” for the company could be turning itself around to compete with Hulu and Netflix.

Contrary to popular belief, traditional advertising (print, TV, direct mail, etc) is still a highly effective way to sell products and services if it’s done right.

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Done right, online video (or any video) can easily and quickly communicate your message. And, with the latest improvements in technology it’s never been easier. Hear Shannon Ennis of Video One Productions share her info and insight about the video explosion. (And see our latest video)

In a recent survey by Technorati.com, self-employed professionals reported the benefits of blogging:

• 71% have greater visibility in their industry.
• 63% said clients purchased products or services after reading their blog.
• 56% say their company is now regarded as a thought leader.
• 40% have been asked to speak at conferences.