Friends in Tech is an oxymoronic group of podcasters and bloggers — that is, we are a loose, but tight-knit alliance — individual, but still a group. Each of the members focus on the technology and technology issues that interest them most, including IT, computers, networking and more. We are also friends — as much as the geographic distances allow, hence the name. Each member produces his or her own show or blog, yet we each attempt to help fellow members however we can.

Collectively, we each bring with us certain special talents and contributions that we volunteer to the group. There are no “assigned” roles or positions — the only requirement being the desire to actively participate within the group in some fashion.

Why are we doing this?

Simply put — because we want to. We enjoy the friendship and camaraderie of like-minded individuals. We enjoy helping each other and we believe that by banding together we can have a greater impact on the podcasting world. Finally, we do it because it is fun. It brings a high-touch approach to the high-tech world in which we live and work.

Where are we going with this?

Wherever it takes us. Everything within this group is voluntary and every effort appreciated. We believe the key is to utilize the strengths of the members in areas that THEY wish to contribute, nothing more. Nothing forced, nothing “required.” Projects that are fun, while also serving the podcasting and blogging community, are always high on our list.

What’s the ultimate goal of this group?

To have fun. Sounds odd in today’s world, doesn’t it? Podcasting is a new medium that has allowed us geeks to network and communicate in ways that weren¹t possible before. We want to foster a community spirit where all can participate and that allows Friends in Tech to flourish into something that continues to be fun and a source of pride for all the members.

How was the group formed?

Many in the group were originally members of another podcasting network. For various reasons, each of us ultimately departed that group. Founder, Kevin Devin, then invited a personal selection to create the original members of Friends in Tech.

How does one join?

Actually, one doesn’t actually join FiT. Rather, FiT reaches out to you.

Potential members of FiT are recommended by the existing members, using the values mentioned above as a guide. Potential member shows should be technology-themed in some way, but above all, the potential member should have the desire to work together and actively participate in group activities. Using this criteria, members discuss both what the member can bring to FiT AND what FiT can bring to the member and their show/blog. There must be a balance.

The priorities of Friends in Tech members are:  Family, Podcast, then FiT. It is important that without neglecting Family or their individual podcasts, the members can still participate with the group in some way. We believe that camaraderie and a sense of community is very important to the overall health of the group.

Is this a group or a network?

A Group. An Alliance. An Association. A club, perhaps.

A network infers that there is a legal structure, rules and compliance to maintain its existence. At this point, our goal is not to build a profit-making entity, but rather serve our ultimate goals, as mentioned above — having fun, enjoying the camaraderie and friendship, and doing something we truly enjoy, podcasting and blogging about technology.