It’s never easy trying to improve on a pretty good model, but as we head into our 13th annual Summit, I’m pleased to announce that we’ve got a solid lineup of great sessions.

First, the basic details:

What:
Jacobs Media’s 13th Summit (in conjunction with the Radio & Records Convention, who partners with the NAB Radio Show)

Where:
Austin, Texas

When:
Thursday, September 18th, 1:30-5:30 p.m.

Who can attend:
Anyone. The Summit is open to Jacobs' clients and any industry person who wants to benefit from our sessions.

How much:
$0 registration

Of course, you have to get to Austin, and you’ll need a place to stay, but we’ll leave those details to you. R&R (and of course, the NAB) hope that you’ll also register for their convention, which traditionally packs solid sessions, big names, and the “fun factor,” too.

In keeping with the tradition of bringing together a collection of unique, compelling, and relevant topics and speakers, we have a solid agenda that we’re in the process of finalizing. With an emphasis on dealing with the challenges and opportunities that broadcasters face from digital platforms, the Summit will provide insight and solutions critical to the decision-making process.

Here’s what we have (so far):

Nikki Sixx - “What I Know About Your Audience That You Don’t Know”

We are excited to announce that Motley Crue’s and Sixx A.M.'s Nikki Sixx will be sharing his thoughts on a variety of topics – ranging from audience connection to brand extension to the music, entertainment, and radio industries. He’s got insights into the audience that may surprise you. In many ways, this takes the Summit back to its rock roots, but Nikki is much more than a rock star.

In addition to his leadership role with iconic rock band Motley Crue, he has successfully launched a solo project, Sixx: A.M. which has already produced a hit single in 2008 (“Life Is Beautiful”), as well as a clothing line (Royal Underground), and a "New York Times" bestselling book – “The Heroin Diaries: A Year in the Life of a Shattered Rock Star” – which graphically and candidly tells his story of drug addiction and recovery. Nikki also works on Running Wild In The Night, a music and arts program for runaway youth at Covenant House California.

Our Keith Cunningham will host Nikki’s session, and attendees will be have the chance to ask questions in person, as well as texting questions on a big screen. This session should be one of the most talked-about events at the entire convention.

Leo Laporte – “Radio’s Survival Plan In The Digital Space”

If you don’t know Leo Laporte, you should. He is a bona fide rock star in the digital world. He’s the host and producer of “This Week In Tech,” the largest technology podcast. He’s a frequent guest on television programs, including “Regis & Kelly,” but as importantly, he’s a tech expert who also “gets” radio. Laporte is the host of Premiere’s nationally syndicated show, “Leo Laporte – The Tech Guy.”

In his presentation, Leo will provide much-needed perspective on digital trends, and outline a road map that broadcasters should consider in order to be successful in the digital space. Leo’s a great speaker and will really help Summit attendees connect the digital dots.

Jeff Haley, Deb Esayian – “Managing The Digital Sales Transition”

As the CEO of the RAB, Jeff Haley has already set a very different tone. He has made it clear that radio needs to ensure that its content is available on every device and gadget that exists now – and that will be developed moving forward. Deb Esayian has been at the forefront of helping radio stations managing their digital transition in her role as Co-President of Emmis Interactive. They will explore the trends and demands that advertisers are making, and how radio stations need to adapt. Moderated by our Paul Jacobs, they will share their perspectives on how radio needs to make adjustments in all departments to maximize the revenue opportunity, and to create compelling digital entertainment for listeners.

The rest of the agenda will be wrapped up within the next ten days, and we will keep you up-to-date with more details as they solidify. The Summit, as mentioned above, is a free event, and open to everyone – not just Jacobs' clients. So feel free to forward this email to friends and associates in the business, as well as other people in your cluster or company.

If you’re planning on attending Summit 13, please RSVP to Lisa Riker at lisariker@jacobsmedia.com.  There is no registration fee for the Summit, but we like to know what the attendance levels look like, so please respond if you’re going to be there.  The Summit is also open to everyone – not just Jacobs clients – if there are other professionals from your station, company, or circle, we would be happy to host them as well.