WDW Social 'Media' and Conspiracy

Originally Posted By EPCOT Explorer

>>>Naturally they do. Just like the World is viewed differntly from someone born in 1950 than from someone born in 1990.<<<

Of course. Which, I think, lets WDC manage themselves in the manner in which they do.


They don't want long term fans like us that remember the extra special things and details that used to be put into their projects. For a company that pays a lot of lip service to "legacy" and their history, they sure don't take their actual output seriously.

 

Originally Posted By MPierce

>> <<Let's see now. I'm a Disney executive.>>

>> YOU ... a Disney exec??!?!

Sorry, they want incompetence not incontinence. <<

I like to think that as an executive I could multitask, and be more than capable of filling both of those position.

I could not only blather like an idiot at board meetings. I could also stink everybody out of the room.

 

Originally Posted By Bolna

Creating an opportunity for all those bloggers etc. to be among the first to experience something new at WDW might also be about trying to control the message that gets out.

I noticed that with the new Wild Africa Trek at AK. Generally that might be an experience I could be interested in and therefore I was looking forward to reading the first reviews about it. But then I realized that all those early reviews were from people who got to go on it for free during trial runs. Nearly all of these reviews were extremely positive and some mentioned the price point (which was $129 for the first few weeks, then went up to $189 and I have read that it might be $249 in the peak season), but still claimed it would be a great value. But how can you really evaluate the value of something which you got for free?

And I am sure that a lot of people look for reviews of products like this before they sign up, not only for products at Disney, just look at tripadvisor. Once people have read a lot of positive reviews about something and have paid a lot of money for it, they are bound to try very hard to like it. They have already invested a lot in it (high expectations, vacation time and money) and unless they really feel that it was very bad, they are bound to come back with a positive review themself. Much easier than admitting that one made a mistake. So in setting the tone for any further online discussion/reviews with those positive first reviews they make it much more difficult for an honest opinion to shine through.

 

Originally Posted By skinnerbox

<<But how can you really evaluate the value of something which you got for free?>>

Not to mention negatively evaluating that freebie which might result in your removal from the permanent invite list for the free preview of the newest Disney offerings.

 

Originally Posted By MPierce

I wouldn't pay $200 for the experience unless they let me take home one of the baby Rhinos.

 

Originally Posted By EPCOT Explorer

>>>I wouldn't pay $200 for the experience unless they let me take home one of the baby Rhinos.<<<<

Winky needs company?

 

Originally Posted By RoadTrip

<<I wouldn't pay $200 for the experience unless they let me take home one of the baby Rhinos.>>

Got Spinach?

 

Originally Posted By Spirit of 74

<<But how can you really evaluate the value of something which you got for free?>>

<<Not to mention negatively evaluating that freebie which might result in your removal from the permanent invite list for the free preview of the newest Disney offerings.>>

That's the danger of social media and giving bloggers, photographers and podcasters invites that previously went to real journalists.

Not only do you get a totally skewed view of reality (and one I firmly believe largely goes to people already sold on the product and does nothing to grow your audience)... but if you dare (as social media) for whatever reason opt to rip Disney, they are under no obligation to ever invite you again.

If the NY Times, Washington Post, Miami Herald, NBC News etc rips something, Disney can't/won't not invite them again.

Mommy bloggers from Ohio and fanboi podcasters from New Jersey etc can be dropped and there won't ever be any repercussions.

 

Originally Posted By DlandDug

Oh brother.

Press Junkets have been going on for years and years, long before anyone ever even thought of the internet. The symbiotic relationship between entertainment companies and the media (hooker, meet john) goes back to Flo Ziegfield giving free tickets for the Roof Garden to Alexander Woollcot (look it up). That internet sites now get the freebies isn't anything new-- just an acknowledgement of the awesome power of the world wide web.

As for all the soccer moms and folks living on disability checks and blogging from apartments that belong on Hoarders that are being given the lion's share of the "free" event tickets, I don't really think that's the case. Last year another blogger (of the bitter, jaded variety) leveled a similar charge about D23 specifically. I called up some of the soccer moms and folks living on disability checks and blogging from apartments that belong on Hoarders that I knew and asked them why THEY got the free tickets and I didn't. Funny thing-- none of 'em were getting THOSE particular goodies. But they were inclined to watch the Disney sites like hawks and swoop in when anything was being offered.

 

Originally Posted By DlandDug

Oh, and major media outlets, or their minions, do, indeed, get banned from time to time when entertainment companies have had enough. As much as the NY Times values their integrity, they also value their access to Cameron Diaz. So... it's a two-way street.

 

Originally Posted By Spirit of 74

<<Oh brother.>>

Praise Oprah, amen!

<<Press Junkets have been going on for years and years, long before anyone ever even thought of the internet. The symbiotic relationship between entertainment companies and the media (hooker, meet john) goes back to Flo Ziegfield giving free tickets for the Roof Garden to Alexander Woollcot (look it up). That internet sites now get the freebies isn't anything new-- just an acknowledgement of the awesome power of the world wide web.>>

Thanks for the history lesson.

It may surprise you, but probably won't, but I am intimately aware of press junkets and have been to many (some even held by TWDC, some as working press, some as just a VIP guest).

I'm gonna assume your history lesson was for the folks here who might not understand the issues at play, which you obviously do.

As to the 'awesome power' of the web being behind the (boneheaded in large measure) decision by Disney to basically invite anyone with a blog that will say something nice about the company, I'll just say I disagree with it. It preaches to the choir and doesn't expand your business.

And, frankly, it also places people in positions where they don't really belong, which makes Disney as a brand look less than its MAGICal, polished self.

Yes, I'm saying just look at the way many bloggers/photogs/podcasters behave in public and ask yourself if you think that's an audience Disney should be catering to.

It sure isn't the media professionals type of audience I regularly saw at events dating back to 1990.

<<As for all the soccer moms and folks living on disability checks and blogging from apartments that belong on Hoarders that are being given the lion's share of the "free" event tickets, I don't really think that's the case.>>

It sure seems that way. Just looking at the 250 people list for the SW 'event' at WDW, I recognized a good 50-60 names from the web. Assuming they were bringing a guest, that would place the number at around 100 of 250.

Again, I have yet to see one 'event' happen (in FLA to be fair, since I know your on the left coast) where pretty much any/every online site that wanted entry didn't get it. I just don't believe in coincidence to that level.

<<Last year another blogger (of the bitter, jaded variety) leveled a similar charge about D23 specifically. >>

Aren't most of them bitter and jaded and trying to find something in Disney that is missing from their lives anyway?

And, yes, I know enough online folks (and have heard stories of others) to believe that to largely be the case.

<<I called up some of the soccer moms and folks living on disability checks and blogging from apartments that belong on Hoarders that I knew and asked them why THEY got the free tickets and I didn't. Funny thing-- none of 'em were getting THOSE particular goodies. But they were inclined to watch the Disney sites like hawks and swoop in when anything was being offered.>>

Well, I have said I believe that many of them may well have no lives and be sitting around ready to swoop as you put it. Disney, or folks working for social media like my good friend Thomas Smith (that's a lie, I've never met the man, but I already sense he wouldn't like me!) may be giving folks like the soccer moms and folks living on disability checks and blogging from apartments that belong on Hoarders a bit of a heads-up when something is about to be tossed in the water.

I dunno. I really don't care.

I just believe as both a stockholder and a media pro that Disney is making a big mistake in their strategy. And, FWIW, I am not the only one. One Disney management type in FLA told me after the Dream launch that the company had opened up an ugly can of worms and that he/she thought changes were going to be coming.

 

Originally Posted By Spirit of 74

<<Oh, and major media outlets, or their minions, do, indeed, get banned from time to time when entertainment companies have had enough. As much as the NY Times values their integrity, they also value their access to Cameron Diaz. So... it's a two-way street.>>

You can choose to trust me on this one or not ... but Disney isn't banning the NY Times from anything ever. EVER.

Just not going to happen.

Brooks Barnes can write a scathing piece tomorrow on Jay Rasulo's tenure at TWDC (I would gladly help him with sources and info too!) and he'll still get wherever he wants/needs to go.

And if Disney ever decided to play nasty with some real organization like the Times, they would be flamed in the hard media until Peter Pan was begging for a crack pipe since the pixie dust was all gone.

 

Originally Posted By ReelJustice

It has come to my attention that a certain 'celebrity' podcaster/blogger is currently accepting $400 a person to walk around WDW with him. Unbelievable.

I missed my calling I guess.

 

Originally Posted By Spirit of 74

^^Are you serious??!?!

That is freaking amazing. I like to call them whores, but that is taking things to a whole new level.

Since this individual is obviously making that fact known, care to share who it is?

 

Originally Posted By ReelJustice

^^Lou Mongello. Lawyer turned Disney Whore who complained about his very short commute to WDW today from wherever he lives nearby. Apparently, he is using his whore money to stay at Bay Lake Tower.

I guess you can put a price on MAGIC!

 

Originally Posted By ReelJustice

Ah, here ya go:

"Starting in May 2011, Lou Mongello is offering private 4-hour tours to families and groups looking for a unique way to experience the Magic Kingdom’s 6 whimsical lands."
<a href="http://www.loumongello.com/" target="_blank">http://www.loumongello.com/</a>

 

Originally Posted By ReelJustice

Pricing:

The rate for a standard 4-hour tour is $395 for up to 6 people

The standard tour +1 hr (5 hours total) to accommodate time for a meal or attractions is $490

The standard tour +2 hrs (6 hours total) to accommodate time for a meal and/or attractions is $585

We require payment in full 2 weeks in advance of your tour date

We accept all major credit cards

 

Originally Posted By Spirit of 74

I have heard of him, nothing good. But never met the guy.

$400 a day to walk around the parks with him? I wonder if that even goes against WDC policy?

I recall a few years ago when Jim Hill tried to give an unofficial tour at DL, that I am almost sure he didn't charge for, security ended it.

I can't believe Thomas Smith and the folks he answers to at TWDC think it's cool to condone, or simply pretend they don't know it, that type of behavior.

Truly, mindboggling amazing.

This is what TDO wants to use to sell the MAGIC?

Incredulous.

 

Originally Posted By Spirit of 74

Frankly, he sounds like someone I'd not even want in my parks. But I don't run TWDC.

I'm sure he's just a standup guy helping to spread the MAGIC.

I am utterly amazed.

Maybe I should start giving tours ... and donating the money to real charities and not no-lifers.

 

Originally Posted By ReelJustice

Apparently, he fancies himself as a motivational speaker also:

Motivational Lou quotes:

“Keep Moving Forward!” – Take The Leap Of Faith And Do What You Love – Now! - Lou’s personal story about leaving his law practice to pursue his passion
Strategies for Overcoming Life’s Obstacles – Life-changing Lessons from Walt Disney) – Using Walt Disney’s journey as an example, see how he achieved his dreams and the challenges he overcame along the way, and learn how to leverage them for your own businesses.

Lou on Social Media:

How to Monetize Your Podcast: Addressing the most common question after “how do I get started”
Podcasting 101 – Getting Started: A to Z, turnkey how-to presentation
Building Your Personal Brand with Social Media: Putting the “I” and “Me” in Social Media