| Ryan Hupfer, a self-proclaimed “computer nerd,” has been consuming, producing, and learning all things Web since his first introduction to dial-up. With a rare mix of being both a social butterfly and a tech geek, he has always strived to find ways to utilize technology in a way that connects people and calls them to action. He is a strong believer in the ability to fulfill and extend the human need to connect with others online and is always looking at ways to leverage emerging technologies to benefit people’s lives. By the time he hit his college years, Ryan was deep into the world of computer programming; all while being a bartender at one of Indianapolis’ most popular dance clubs. In early 2004, Ryan’s odd mix of being both a technology expert and socialite came together when he created his first online social community, www.HupsHoopty.com, which was based on his recent purchase of a brown 1992 GMC full-size custom van. This online community became an unlikely stepping stone and a door for opportunity in Ryan’s life and eventually led him to landing a job at Indianapolis-based new media/communications company, MediaSauce (www.mediasauce.com). He then moved back into the social community world once again when he launched the locally-based www.IndyMojo.com in Indianapolis. He currently is sitting at Starbucks wondering where he will end up next.
Mitch Maxson co-created his first interactive development firm (Transgres) just two years after graduating from Purdue University. After two years of sustained growth, Transgres joined MediaSauce to pursue a shared vision of broadband-based integrated communications. Today, as a partner and Senior Creative Director, Mitch has helped grow MediaSauce from 8 employees to more than 50 in just two years. As a constant proponent of “what comes next” and the emergence of audience-centric messaging and broadband connectivity, Mitch’s focus is on understanding individuals and inspiring new ways for them to interact with the people they care about and the world that surrounds them. With MediaSauce, Mitch can be found preaching the vision of the ongoing integration of communication, entertainment, and media while helping clients better understand their audiences and how to connect with them.
Ryan Williams is a multimedia designer, author, and bassist based in Indianapolis, Indiana. In addition to this book, he has written for titles including Teach Yourself VISUALLY Bass Guitar, Expert Podcast Practices For Dummies, and Windows XP Digital Music For Dummies (all by Wiley Publishing, Inc.). He also acted as technical editor for Second Life For Dummies and Composing Digital Music For Dummies (both by Wiley Publishing, Inc.). His work also includes several digital multimedia projects, including podcasts for the Indiana University School of Dentistry and garage band tutorials for grooveboxmusic.com. As a bassist, he’s appeared with and recorded for everybody from Grammy-award-winning hip-hop artists to a stage full of bagpipers. His playing can be heard on several albums, educational exhibits, and monster truck commercials.
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