Please share your thoughts, popSireners!

[sarahlane]

I got an email this morning that I want to share with you all and get your feedback on (original below my reply):

------------------------

Dear Anonymous,

Thanks for the feedback. Although we do read things like our sponsor copy and the news portion of the show to keep the stories succinct (although our reactions are not scripted), we are mostly just giving ourselves bullet points to stay on track and improvising the rest. For example, interviews are organic, my On the Prowl and Tricks are ad-libbed, as is Remix, emails, etc.

It's tough to compare us to Diggnation because although they do their jobs really well, the production complexity is completely different. popSiren has 4-5 different set areas + field packages and is rotating through 6 regular contributors each week, so we have to keep things structured or else they get unorganized fast.

I think it's a little unfair of you to imply that we aren't acting like human beings, but I will take the point that the show is coming off to you as too scripted and will think about that.

Regards,
sarah

------------------------

On Apr 10, 2008, at 6:58 AM, Anonymous wrote:

The show does what it sets out to do well, but 'ad damn, I'm really tired of traditional broadcast presentation, which is what resounds heavily to me about your show. Perhaps I'm just spoiled by the oft-relaxed format of podcasts and have become conditioned to expect a more... human... show on the net, but as I watched your show, I just kept waiting for you to cut to the chase and start talking like actual human beings instead of script reciters. Revision3 'aint Comcast, man. You're allowed to speak your mind a bit and inject a bit of yourself into the work. I like where the show's head's at, just... maybe act less like QVC anchors? Less Fox News, more Diggnation. Loosen up. Less script.

------------------------

My first instinct when I get this kind of email is to dismiss it because the viewer just doesn't understand the effort that goes into the show, blah blah blah. But it's important to me to know if the show seems overly scripted, or if we are coming off like QVC/Fox News anchors or even (gasp!) inhuman.

So put your two cents in, wouldya? And be honest. It's for the good of the show.

Thanks!

[tokenuser]

Don't change.

Anonymous need to pull the stick out of their

[tokenuser]

Crap - I hate it when you hit the send key to soon.

There seems to be a perception that podcasts should all be unscripted free for alls. That works for some shows, not for others. But why is it that when a show follows talking points (not necessarily a script) that they are suddenly accused of being subservient to "the man" (in this case Comcast) - and yet they demand higher production values?

This whole IPTV thing is in its infancy ... much like cable TV was back in the 80's. On cable you had a mix of network based entertainment, PBS style edutainment, and local access channels. I think "studios" (used in quotes, because I think that in the online world there might be a better terms for it) are somewhere between the PBS edutainment and the local access channel stage servicing a niche market at the moment, but by applying the skills and stagecraft learnt at a "real" network, you have a much more polished and wider appealing feel - which generates wider interest, attracts larger sponsors, allows more/bigger budget shows, and feeds the cycle. Without that yo are doomed to forever produce "Wayne's World" style programming - which might be a funny movie, but is not sustainable beyond a hobbiest level of involvement.

Saw an interesting show on Foodnetwork last night - a "biography" of the station. The early stages of Foodnetwork in the early 90's was not much different to Revision3 today - except that Revision3 does not record live to tape, and has editors in place. It surprising what smoke and mirrors were used then, and continue to be used now.

[tnvwboy]

Personally I think popSiren is just fine. Maybe anonymous was wanting popSiren to be more like TRS? Structured but more free wheeling, but I don't think that would necessarily be a good idea. You ladies do what you do well and it's fun as it is. Lastly I think as the show progresses it'll get only better. It's WAY to early to toss everything aside and start anew.

[mr-glass]

This person is wrong, you two definitely do not come off like robots.

The only thing that seems a bit off is the way you transition between segments. Dunno, just doesnt seem right. I much prefer the way they do TRS or TekZilla, where they just say "great, onward" and it cuts. The clever quips just dont fit.

[masherscf]

I annoys me when people think they know better how to produce something.

"Diggnation" was an accident. It's much more than the sum of it's parts because of a personal chemistry between Alex and Kevin. Without that, it would be a colossal bore. It has nothing to do with how much it is scripted or how much it is produced.

"The Totally Rad Show" is very similar to "Diggnation." Alex, Dan and Jeff talk about current topics and rely on their personal dynamic to resonate with viewers. However, unlike "Diggnation", the"Totally Rad Show" was not an accident.

On the other hand, Sarah and Jessica have a different on screen dynamic. "PopSiren's" itself is a different show entirely. I suspect that Jessica and Sarah's polish only seems more scripted because of how really accomplished they are. To interpret that as disingenuous is just wrong.

In the end, make a show you would want to see, make it great and people will watch. I do...

[m3wse]

I annoys me when people think they know better how to produce something.

"Diggnation" was an accident. It's much more than the sum of it's parts because of a personal chemistry between Alex and Kevin. Without that, it would be a colossal bore. It has nothing to do with how much it is scripted or how much it is produced.

"The Totally Rad Show" is very similar to "Diggnation." Alex, Dan and Jeff talk about current topics and rely on their personal dynamic to resonate with viewers. However, unlike "Diggnation", the"Totally Rad Show" was not an accident.

On the other hand, Sarah and Jessica have a different on screen dynamic. "PopSiren's" itself is a different show entirely. I suspect that Jessica and Sarah's polish only seems more scripted because of how really accomplished they are. To interpret that as disingenuous is just wrong.

In the end, make a show you would want to see, make it great and people will watch. I do...

well what I think is happening here is more due to the concept behind the show than the presentation. The concept of the show is to present scientific news and stuff like that, so it is sort of a round up of the scientific world. Diggnation is very much a news roundup, but the thing is the aim is more on discussion than actual news. TRS is the same, it starts with a mention of a game or something, then enters a long discussion.

Popsiren focuses more on the news and information than discussion, Popsiren is not a discussion show, nor should it be. What anonymous is moaning about is the concept of the show itself whether they realise this or not... discussion shows are produced differently to informational shows...

[nathan79]

Keep the style and substance, but ditch the format and setting. I like popSiren, but I still think it's possible for me to like it more. All five of you are amazing women, with very distinctive interests and personalities. I think, if possible, it would be really fun to see all five (or even three or four) of you on the same set, directly involved with the various subject matter.

For instance, Jessica could give the other four girls a DIY project each week. Then, on the show (after a taped, well-edited tutorial montage) the other girls could reveal their completed project (ie everyone makes their own punk rock shirt). The results could be both funny and informative! Use this same formula for the other segments as well. Dr Kiki could use the other four as guinea pigs, or teach them, instead of just talking to a camera. Everyone could make their own muxtape, try a different social networking device, ect, ect... At this point it might also be important to tone down the brisk pace the show currently uses, leaving room for the natural increase in unscripted occurrences. Every show could be wrapped up with a round table-like discussion on some appropriate topic, followed by the obligatory viewer mail.

I realize such a change would be a lot of work, but ultimately might be worth the effort. I think a new format like this would give popSiren a more community-friendly feel, and play really well to the strengths of an all girl show. Hey, it worked for Whoopi Goldberg, didn't it? :)

[cam8]

I love this show. When are they going to do a DIY on some baby gadgets?

[darknessgp]

...
For instance, Jessica could give the other four girls a DIY project each week. Then, on the show (after a taped, well-edited tutorial montage) the other girls could reveal their completed project (ie everyone makes their own punk rock shirt). The results could be both funny and informative! Use this same formula for the other segments as well. Dr Kiki could use the other four as guinea pigs, or teach them, instead of just talking to a camera. Everyone could make their own muxtape, try a different social networking device, ect, ect... At this point it might also be important to tone down the brisk pace the show currently uses, leaving room for the natural increase in unscripted occurrences. Every show could be wrapped up with a round table-like discussion on some appropriate topic, followed by the obligatory viewer mail.
...

I actually like the idea of having all or most of the sirens do a DIY or something. The show, IMO, really feels like it is Sarah shows us and Jessica something cool she found, Jessica shows us some DIY project she found, Kiki shows some science-y thing, etc... I would like to see more, Jessica found a cool DIY project and all the sirens tried it out, get away from the feeling of having Sarah being like "That's soo cool" to one of Jessica's thing and then it appears as if nothing more than happens.

[kronos6948]

I like it the way it is.

There's plenty to keep my attention, even if the subjects don't necessarily pertain to me (altoids compact, for example).

The format of the show is more professional than a lot of podcasts out there, and I think that's what Anonymous's issue was with the show. I think you're more apt to get a wider audience with the format you currently have. Sure, there's some script reading, but also, there seem to be some unscripted discussion.

IMO, using scripts in this type of show is necessary, since all of you ladies have topics that need to be explained. With scripts, you convey more information than if you were spouting it off the top of your heads.

As far as the news reference goes, I bet it's because he sees both you (Sarah), and Jessica behind a desk talking about the topics. While it may have a similar look to an anchor/co-anchor setup of a news broadcast, what Anonymous fails to see is that's where the news broadcast correlation ends.

I say don't change a thing. Just keep the good stuff coming.

[bani-banan]

Actually, what keeps me coming is the interaction.

The ads, well. I just buzz off when ever I see a GoDaddy add. I hate them.
But, I use NetFlix (Gotta love using a mississippi Wal-mart address with a swedish creditcard + proxy to view streaming movies. Sweden doesn't have that).

I say, don't change a darn thing. Maybe add a couple of segments, like Music.

[rokov]

I've really been enjoying the show so far. I wouldn't say that it seems scripted, but it isn't quite as relaxed as it could be (perhaps a bit overly polished). This could simply be the fact that you've only done six episodes so far or because Sarah and Jessica are the only sirens with a significant amount of on camera experience. Either way, I'm sure that it will work itself out. My only suggestion would be to get rid of the plugged in segment titles and transition graphics and have more of a natural flow between segments. I also like Nathan79's suggestion of having the sirens get more involved with each other's segments. Oh, and more Neha. :D

[dom]

The ads, well. I just buzz off when ever I see a GoDaddy add. I hate them.

Me too, but I have to admit Sarah's bizarre GoDaddy promo in the latest ep had me listening.

Another vote for "don't change a thing" here. PopSiren is a work of art.

[renehasp]

The first episode of POP it really did feel like all you hosts were just reading. I did comment in the forum about that but honestly the second episode and on have been great! I totally get into the segments so I think it's constantly improving.. It really must be hard to please everyone out there :-)

Love you guys!
Rene

[340-29m-s]

I think it is perfect as is...

Sarah and Jessica are both very fun to watch no matter what you're talking about, which is very diggnation-ish.

I like all of the personal views and mannerisms - that Sarah Lane is a funny chick.

[someaudioguy]

Alright. I'll throw it out there. I kinda felt the first couple episodes were a little awkward. I think they were a lot of fun, but still awkward.
Vibe is an important thing to nail, and it doesn't matter how polished or experienced your hosts, it takes time to get the vibe of the show down.

QVC? Fox News? Hmmm ... uh ... ok ... I guess to be fair, I don't watch either...

I can appreciate relating to the show hosts in a familiar way (Diggnation's beers on couch), but isn't the whole point of this ITV experiment to raise content to the next level. If Anony's way of thinking had prevailed during the early days of cable, then we'd all still be watching public access produced out of someone's basement.

I'm not a big fan of the Sirens getting overly involved with each others segments, or coming together at the end to show off the girl's "arts and crafts". You'll pardon the comparison, but a round table discussion of women always seems to link my brain to The View. I say have each host play to their strengths. It'll keep the show honest.
Though I wouldn't mind a little more screen time with the other Sirens. What can I say? I tend to skip to Heather's segment first...


I've been a big fan of Revision3 content for a while (ok around episode 20 or so of Diggnation), and just comparing PS to the other shows being produced, popSiren could prove to be their most ambitious show yet. Right now the scope of this show is HUGE. I'm really impressed with the diversity of segments being produced. Maybe (eventually?) it'll narrow a bit, but it is a lot of fun watching how quickly the show is evolving.

Great shows take time, but damned if this one didn't hit it really close right out the gate.

[nathan79]

Don't worry, SomeAudioGuy, my ideas weren't very realistic anyway. But, then again, I wasn't exactly sober when I posted them. At least I tried dammit! (decides not to try lifting his bathroom sink anymore)

[mrpopular]

Dont listen to the haters. popSiren is awesome. keep up the good work!!!

[someaudioguy]

Don't worry, SomeAudioGuy, my ideas weren't very realistic anyway. But, then again, I wasn't exactly sober when I posted them. At least I tried dammit! (decides not to try lifting his bathroom sink anymore)

Nonono! LOL! That's the point of this thread.
The point is to chat out what we like, dislike, and would like to see. I'm not saying your idea is a bad one, just saying it wont work for me. If you'll notice, you have more people in favor than not. :rolleyes:

[esalonia]

I got an email this morning that I want to share with you all and get your feedback on (original below my reply):

------------------------

Dear Anonymous,

Thanks for the feedback. Although we do read things like our sponsor copy and the news portion of the show to keep the stories succinct (although our reactions are not scripted), we are mostly just giving ourselves bullet points to stay on track and improvising the rest. For example, interviews are organic, my On the Prowl and Tricks are ad-libbed, as is Remix, emails, etc.

It's tough to compare us to Diggnation because although they do their jobs really well, the production complexity is completely different. popSiren has 4-5 different set areas + field packages and is rotating through 6 regular contributors each week, so we have to keep things structured or else they get unorganized fast.

I think it's a little unfair of you to imply that we aren't acting like human beings, but I will take the point that the show is coming off to you as too scripted and will think about that.

Regards,
sarah

------------------------

On Apr 10, 2008, at 6:58 AM, Anonymous wrote:

The show does what it sets out to do well, but 'ad damn, I'm really tired of traditional broadcast presentation, which is what resounds heavily to me about your show. Perhaps I'm just spoiled by the oft-relaxed format of podcasts and have become conditioned to expect a more... human... show on the net, but as I watched your show, I just kept waiting for you to cut to the chase and start talking like actual human beings instead of script reciters. Revision3 'aint Comcast, man. You're allowed to speak your mind a bit and inject a bit of yourself into the work. I like where the show's head's at, just... maybe act less like QVC anchors? Less Fox News, more Diggnation. Loosen up. Less script.

------------------------

My first instinct when I get this kind of email is to dismiss it because the viewer just doesn't understand the effort that goes into the show, blah blah blah. But it's important to me to know if the show seems overly scripted, or if we are coming off like QVC/Fox News anchors or even (gasp!) inhuman.

So put your two cents in, wouldya? And be honest. It's for the good of the show.

Thanks!


Sarah,

You make some very good points in response to this email. I think the show, as a whole, is fine. Contrary to what anonymous said, I feel that the show is doesn't have fox newscast feel to it, or the like. You all come off as "comfortable" in your on screen appearances and not like a group of automatons reading a script word for word from a prompter. I feel like if there were something that one of you felt you needed to say, that wasn't on a prompter, or rehearsed at an earlier time, be it a joke, comment, or whatever, you would, and have said it.

In short, the show is fine as is. Keep up the good work. I think the chemistry of everyone on the show and the direction it is going is great.


- Ed

[ice-cream]

The only thing about the style of the show that I don't like is Jessica's personality. She is way over the top. She was perfectly fine when she was co-hosting Tekzilla and the Digg Reel, but for some reason on Pop Siren she just comes off as annoying.

Everything else that I've noticed is really good.

[nathan79]

The funny thing about popSiren, is that I have no idea why I watch it! A pretty face isn't enough to make me watch something, and most of the DIY projects really don't relate to me. All I know is that after watching an episode, my batteries feel recharged. Suddenly, I feel like checking a few things off my "to do" list. PopSiren is bursting with positive energy, and that sort of thing seems to be a rare treat nowadays. It's also rare to find forums with the overall maturity level of those here in the rev3 community. I'm not usually a big forum poster, but I never feel like I'm wasting my time here.

[damnedeyez]

I find it has a bit of a morning show feel (Today, Good Morning, America)...except better. (and shorter and once a week.)

[sarahlane]

The funny thing about popSiren, is that I have no idea why I watch it! A pretty face isn't enough to make me watch something, and most of the DIY projects really don't relate to me. All I know is that after watching an episode, my batteries feel recharged. Suddenly, I feel like checking a few things off my "to do" list. PopSiren is bursting with positive energy, and that sort of thing seems to be a rare treat nowadays. It's also rare to find forums with the overall maturity level of those here in the rev3 community. I'm not usually a big forum poster, but I never feel like I'm wasting my time here.

Wow, that's really awesome. I love the fact that even though you don't feel like you relate to a lot of our content, you enjoy it enough to still want to watch and interact with us! I know what you mean... I love Pixelperfect, and I don't even HAVE Photoshop!

Thanks for the honest feedback, everybody. Keep it coming!

[mcstagger]

The show is awesome in the raw, period. At the end of every episode I feel like I've been kicked in the sensory preceptors by a giant fuchsia and turquoise godzilla train of whoopass awesome and energy. Don't change a cottonpickin thing, cause you ladies have discovered the equation for one kickass show. I used to only come to Rev3 for one thing, my weekly dose of the Sarge. But now it's for a second, Ms.Trix-a-Lot and the rest of the charmingly nerdy popSiren gals. Yall manage to keep me cracked up every week while learnin' me a niffty thing or two. And there's absolutely nothing "inhuman" about yall or any other aspect of the show. The main reason I love the show so much is beacuse of the natural chemistry you and Jess and the rest of the ladies have on camera. Really, don't change a single thing, because you're at 100% perfection, and that aint no lie.

[brendo_91]

Sarah... I'm enough of a fan that I went back and checked out your other work in the Gazette, and somehow you seem a lot more natural in the Gazette. I don't know why that might be except for the fact that they are COMPLETELY different shows, I understand this. Um.... it's basically the same way that Veronica Belmont seems a little different co-hosting Tekzilla than hosting Mahalo Daily on her own?

It's not bad, just different. I love Dr. Kiki's segments, I look forward to them every time. Is she related to Dr. Tiki?

[sarahlane]

Sarah... I'm enough of a fan that I went back and checked out your other work in the Gazette, and somehow you seem a lot more natural in the Gazette. I don't know why that might be except for the fact that they are COMPLETELY different shows, I understand this. Um.... it's basically the same way that Veronica Belmont seems a little different co-hosting Tekzilla than hosting Mahalo Daily on her own?

It's not bad, just different. I love Dr. Kiki's segments, I look forward to them every time. Is she related to Dr. Tiki?

I'd guess that's probably because on popSiren I'm almost always presenting or explaining something, and the Gazette is more of a free-for-all-whatever kind of thing? Good point though. I'm all for natural.

[brendo_91]

Yeah, could be. I dunno, there's just a slightly awkward vibe at times? Maybe you're preparing too much, maybe not enough. It's hard to know without, you know, being you.

But really, its fine! Keep up the good work, the show can only get more bettererest, right? Ugh, that's not a word. Bettererest?

[kronos6948]

To quote Billy Joel:



Don't go changing, to try and please me
You never let me down before
Don't imagine you're too familiar
And I don't see you anymore
I wouldn't leave you in times of trouble
We never could have come this far
I took the good times, I'll take the bad times
I'll take you just the way you are

[broph]

I think it's only natural for people to take the effort more often when they're complaining than to give a compliment. For every complaint that you get, you've got to have 10, 100, 1,000 people who watched the show, dug it, but just didn't write in to give their kudos. I've only made a couple of posts here, pretty much talking about words used on the show and in the shows' descriptions.

You notice that the writer compared PopSiren to other shows - broadcast and other. As long as there are people in front of the camera, there are always going to be comparisons; it's only natural. I'm sure that you're taking inspiration from other shows that you've worked on, or other shows that you like - again, that's only natural. But you're not trying to be just like another show - you're staking your own claim and making your own mark. That's going to take some time; more than a half dozen episodes.

It's a hard balancing act - you want to make the show that you want to make, but if you don't have an audience, you don't have a show.

Personally, I like the show and I'm looking forward to the directions you take it in the future. The only thing that's missing is a third host named Parker, so that when the remote unit sends it back to the studio, they send it back to Sarah, Jessica, Parker (how many times have you heard that joke so far?).

Keep up the good work. Listen to criticism, but don't let it get you down. You'll find your balance.

[jsatt]

I think the show's good. To be completely honest, Jessica does have her moments that wear on me, but I think she is great with presentation like she did on inDigital and maybe just hasn't found her mark in this format yet. Kiki is a great addition to the show, even though I already know a lot of what she talks about I think she has a great presentation and brings it from uber-geek level of understanding to help the non-geeky part of the audience understand why it's cool. Neha and Heather both do great with they're segments. Sarah's one of the hosts like Kevin, Patrick, Leo and even Veronica that no matter what the show is, as long as it has that tech/geek vibe, she's going to be great.

What I don't think a lot of people realize is that the show is working towards a new demographic. A demographic that really didn't have much of a presence before, NOT the diggnation or TRS crowds. Even the "pioneers" of podcasting/IPTV (can i call them that?) like TWiT and diggnation had rough patches at the beginning until they found their niche. I think you guys are off to great start.

And if you don't like the show either be constructive about what you want to see changed or don't watch. Flaming and degrading someone's hard work helps no one.

[namredips]

I posted this in another thread a little while back... though It might be good in this topic:

1. Sarah - Great personality for the show. Actually think she breathes quite a bit of cheeriness into the show. All the while maintaining some what of a satirical presence. Quite an accomplishment actually. Always liked her in whatever I have seen her in...

2. Jessica - Very awesome... adds an eccentric color to the show that without, would probably have me a bit bored (or maybe just skipping to the on the prowl bits)

3. Dr. Kiki - love Dr. Kiki.

4. Heather - Perfect for the part really.

ok now a few non (well sort of ) non-subjective thoughts

As a guy, can't say spots about how to make compact excite me. Not speaking for all guys here, or anyone really. Just saying, keep the diy spots varied.

Dr. Kiki sometimes your hand and head motions can be distracting. Going on 12 years of science education post high school and so maybe I have just equated science information with less animation... Just know I am sometimes going "ok stop moving your hands so much". Not meant to be hurtful, purely constructive.

You all should do a group outing from time to time... get everyones perspective on the same thing, i think that would be very interesting.

some of the stuff after the credits should find its way into the show. Really, i am to the point I can't wait till after credit bits.

Great show though. I wasn't sure I was going to like it, no offense but I thought it might be a bit "girly" for me... I was mistaken. Very entertaining and quite useful. Not to rank the shows on rev3 but popsiren is right up there with diggnation, trs, system and tekzilla. So far I look forward to it every week.

[damianvonbarone]

One word BOOBS - More boobs & cleavage- The show's called Pop SIREN - Well, the sirens in that book by Vonnegut were all sexy babes! Lets sex it up ladies:D
http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/6348/sirensqq1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/6348/sirensqq1.9ee8358be2.jpg (http://g.imageshack.us/g.php?h=515&i=sirensqq1.jpg)
Who's with me!!!!?!?!?!?!?!??!!?:confused:

[tuxotaku]

One word BOOBS - More boobs & cleavage- The show's called Pop SIREN - Well, the sirens in that book by Vonnegut were all sexy babes! Lets sex it up ladies:D
http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/6348/sirensqq1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/6348/sirensqq1.9ee8358be2.jpg (http://g.imageshack.us/g.php?h=515&i=sirensqq1.jpg)
Who's with me!!!!?!?!?!?!?!??!!?:confused:

Yeeeaahhh, no. See that big boat over there? That's the FAILBOAT...and if I'm not mistaken you have a one-way ticket, don't you?

[jimi]

I guess I will chime in as I had a somewhat similar feeling as the original email guy in the first couple of episodes. There were a few parts that did feel pretty scripted which I am not used to. In particular, some of the segue's fell pretty flat. My main gripe are the segment titles along with graphic (e.g., the "Jist" and the like). For some reason these really annoy me and seem to stop the flow of the show. I'd prefer if you just said "let's see what kind of crazy stuff Heather is up to today" rather than slap a name on her segment. Silly, I know, but it chafes me.

Now that the critique is out of the way, I still watch the show ever week. I really like all of the hosts and contributors. It is intriguing to watch a show entirely, for the most part, cast and created by women whose singular purpose is not to just look pretty and read a teleprompter (although everyone is very easy on the eyes). I look forward to seeing future episodes as things get fine tuned and wish the show much success.

[gobo]

I've seen all the shows and have been watching it weekly since week 2 (not terribly long I know)

I like the show enough to keep watching, but I dunno... something just feels a little off. I don't know if it's just because it's new and the chemistry hasn't really clicked yet or not, it's not really something I can put my finger on.

I REALLY like the Fringe girl, (sorry I'm blanking on the name right now) she's a natural. Sarah is always great and it's nice seeing her in front of the camera again I've missed her after she left AotS. Moujan has got noticeably better since the show started so a big "Good Job!" for her. Jessica seems a little... I dunno... traditional broadcasting? Also sometimes she seems to be trying a little to hard... Dr. Kiki also comes off a little unnatural sometimes, but not as often as Jessica.

All in all I've gotta say I like the show, and I'm glad I stuck around since it's definitely better than ep 1.

[djmadscribbler]

I enjoy this show so much! I must say that when I read Anonymous' email the first thing I thought was "I can't stand Diggnation or TRS - don't make PopSiren like that!" I think all of you lady's are doing a fantastic job.

I will agree that I'm in favor of doing away with the segment graphics. I think they look nice and all, but if they were a) shorter, or b) gone I think it would help the flow of the show.

Also, the poster who suggested having the show become all five of you in a round table ("Let's see how everyone did with their craft assignment this week!") I think had some good ideas. I would like to see more interaction between the five of you. That said, let me stress that I'd like to see a *little* more interaction. I think the nice thing about the show now is that it's like each segment is based on what each lady really feels passionate about and that passion energizes the show. Now and again though it would be cool to see all five (or maybe 6 counting Moujan) do something together on occasion (like the Inxs LipDub that you posted on heatherandsarah.com was awesome).

[oct_dragon74]

I am a huge fan of both Diggnation and TRS, but I also am a huge fan of Pop Siren. I do believe that the vision of Rev3 was to become the next generation of TV?????? TV on demand??? It's not necessarily a podcast company.

With that said, you ladies sound very unscripted, free and fun to me. I love to watch the show, and it always makes me laugh.

Wish more women were like you ladies!

[shinigami052]

I don't like that person who does the DIY stuff (the one that did the scrabble thing a couple weeks back). Her voice is really annoying to me so I always just skip her segment. I'm sure she's a great person just not suited for on camera stuff.

[umzleepie]

Hi, I know that firefox is pretty popular right now, but I've been using a browser called "Flock" for about 2 years now, and I think it works better than firefox. I think you should check it out for On the Prowl.

Thanks for the great shows!

:]

[bani-banan]

Hi, I know that firefox is pretty popular right now, but I've been using a browser called "Flock" for about 2 years now, and I think it works better than firefox. I think you should check it out for On the Prowl.

Thanks for the great shows!

:]

I did a quick google search on flock.

Flock is basically firefox, but with the social features built in. amiryte?

[tokenuser]

I did a quick google search on flock.

Flock is basically firefox, but with the social features built in. amiryte?100% ... its the browser for people that have more "friends" collected online than they have in real life.

[bcool]

I like the show but I can kind of see where that guy/girl's coming from. Copy gives me nightmares of bad G4 shows like cheat. I think that in a show like your's, where most things are unscripted, the pre-written stuff kind of sticks out. The problem with it is that most of the time it's casual and like hanging out with some friends and then all of a sudden *yank* were a lowly g4 viewer again.

[murphy1d]

FIVE PAGES OF RESPONSE!!!!!

That's a testament to the show's impact. If we didn't care one way or the other, we would have let this die in the first few posts.

My 2 Euro's, I said it already "Less Katie Couric, more Ron Burgundy(?)."

The Beck's helped a bit on the last episode too. Not sayin Diggnation, just sayin relax.. (OK now I hear Frankie Goes to Hollywood in my head).

[wakeupcall1982]

popsiren is different than the other shows which that is what makes it great and I do appreciate the hard work u ladies but into the show I would not change a thing.
-goodjob- Kent

[j_mcdougald]

Bah, the shows fine especially for the few episodes that have come out. You gotta give a show a chance to find it's stride. Sure TRS and Diggnation are smoother but look how many eps there are. I say leave everything as it is, but add more Moujan.

[speedy3]

So, popSiren is a great show. It certainly has enough to keep me watching. Speaking quickly about the scripted comment, it's untrue. If the "transition" into what you are reading is giving anyone a cringe, that really couldn't get any better, seeing as how you girls already know what you're talking about. The only thing, and I'm being picky here, is the format of the show. Sure "the gist" makes a good first segment, but I'd like to see more variety in placement of the other segments. I know the show is early, and there's not much time to play with.

[spark-rain-fire]

Sarah,

I really enjoy the high production values of some revision3 podcasts like PopSiren, and The Totally Rad Show. The shows like PopSiren are really bridging the gap between the big box in my living room, and the computer. (I actually watch you guys on the big box in the living room about half the time) I like the on demand feel, and portability of the show while also keeping the standards way high. It makes me happy.

FYI: I still think you're human. That Jessica Corbin though, She could be a robot. (not that there would be anything wrong with that!)


Avid Podcast watcher guy, and all around big ass dork,
Dann

[aerodash84]

I worked at my college radio station and I've produced short shows for a class. The radio show was pretty much an audio Diggnation where me and my friend picked our favorite stories and discussed. Problem without a script or show prep can come off awkward and dull. Even Diggnation has some sort of prep work involved.

It sounds like PopSiren is kind of like some shows I wrote for a class. Involved movies each show had a theme then examples and we broke it down from there. With some guide lines it helps with train of thought because if it derails it can be messy. I enjoy PopSiren and where Revision3 is going with alternative media outlet. Plus it takes awhile to work a show's kinks out before a formula works like TRS. I remember the early TRS shows were a bit hard to watch. So before I rant on too long keep up the great work and want to see where the show goes.

[justin316a]

i love the show, every segment has alittle something about that just clicks with me, and you guys pushed me over the edge, I will be buying tea soon. so tell that to your sponsors. =P

If anything, I want to go back to Kiki's full segments rather than breaking them up. I don't care if my brain explodes, I'll figure out all the stuff she talks about. It's alot for me to take in, but I'm for some reason compelled to understand the concepts. And THAT is good content.

[tehcris]

The only thing that seems a bit off is the way you transition between segments.


i would have to agree with this....other than this..the show is fine the way it is

[highlanderjames]

The show is great,I haven't seen you so fit in since the screensaver days. I'd like Dr. Kiki to tell us how those plasma lamps work,and if you could build one,anyway the show is just fine the way you guys have it.

[jimi]

I really liked the last show and the segment transitions felt much more natural (an old and now forgotten complaint of mine). Even though I sometimes skip segments that don't interest me, this show is in my top two Rev3 shows that I won't miss (trs being the other). Thanks for the hard work.

[matsie]

The show is really awesome. It's made leaps and bounds compared to its first episode. Originally, the premise fell short for me. I guess even I can be a little discriminatory against geek chicks, even though I am one!

I would say that there is a bit of constructive criticism in the person's message, but I don't feel it's entirely fitting to your show. The format is great and there really needs to be a little professionalism put forth in a show of popSiren's caliber. I think the awkwardness of the first few shows while all of the hosts were getting used to working with each other has gone away. I would say keep the advice in mind, but don't take it too seriously. I don't think the commenter really understands what the aim of popSiren is.

[twobit326]

Just wanted to say that I completely disagree with anonymous. I am very happy that podcasting has been taken to a more professional level. I love what each of you bring to the show. I have practically canceled my cable subscription because I have hours of quality programming on the Revision3 network to watch in HD on my AppleTV each week!

You girls are wonderful. My mondays brighten up when I see popsiren in my podcast directory of iTunes. And now with the daily bites, (which remind me of the little cookie dough bites I used to get at the movies, a very good thing) I get to see each of you every day.

Keep up the good work. You girls are awesome.

-Twobit326

[janemc]

I love this show and would hate to see the hosts take a different direction in delivery. The conversation between them is perfect. After all they are not on a sofa, drinking beer. That is a whole different show that rocks. If every Rev 3 show was a cookie cutter of one format, life would suck out loud.

I am just having a hard time finding time to watch the other shows (Diggnation, teckzilla, etc.) I will get there some day.

Girls, don't change and keep bringing all the fab info to us. I can't wait for a live show some day in the SF Bay Area, have you ever thought of a live in studio audience? I will be first in line! :D

[scott88008]

Personally, all I can add is that popSiren has completely captivated me. There's simply nothing I would rather watch. And what's amazing is that I love every member of the cast. They all bring something unique to the mix. You all come across as extremely professional and yet spontaneous and fresh. Some of the outrageous and hilarious ad libs remind me of an episode of The Office (awkward!) and I especially love the after show out takes. I just can't imagine how it can get any better than it is but based on the extreme amount of talent present it probably will.

[darknessgp]

The only thing I'm not liking is the extra sponsor stuff, like Netflix pick of the week, cause tekzilla does a pick of the week, and I skip both after hearing the movie mainly because I've either seen it or heard of it and didn't want to see it. Would really like if they did some lesser known films, and less of the "top 10 X movies"

Love the after credit outtakes. Watching some of the other Rev3 shows, and I sometimes expect there to be outtakes after the credits.

[green-freq]

Simply:

I like the "On the Prowl", "The Remix", "Dr. Kiki", "Expression Origins", "Trixie's Time",

Sometimes I like "The Gist", "NerdBird", "Jessica's Interviews", "Moujan's Seg"

I'm not fond of "The Fringe",

Now since I know you can't please all the people all of the time, I would have to say that since most of the segments in your show are in my yes pile that the show is doing well.

I guess it's only fair that I explain myself: I'm not really into the things that Heather has on her fringe, but I know some people are so I just fast forward past her part. As to The Gist, Nerd Bird, Jessica's Intervies, and "Moujan's Seg" sometimes have topics that just seem a bit lame (mostly because they don't interest me Again you can't please everyone all the time) so I fast forward past them.

Now individually I find Sarah AKA "Trixie" to be down to earth, smart but not in your face about it. Jessica likes to pretend to be a ditz, although I doubt she really is (this can be annoying), Neha just seems geeky (which is cool), Dr. Kiki is crazy energetic and smart. Heather has some funny moments. Moujan HILARIOUS!

I think you are doing a great job giving your audience a little of everything. I plan to keep watching.