About Ashkuff & Co.

“What’s Ashkuff & Co.?”
I’m Ashkuff! The “Co.” honors all the awesome folks I partner with. It’s our mission to explore different cultures, discover their wants and needs, and design ways to serve them.

“What’s this blog about?”
How to use anthropology, in business and ADVENTURE!!!!

“What’s anthropology?”
The study of humankind, in its cultural, linguistic, biological, and archaeological aspects.

“What’s so cool about this blog?”
Our blog posts are more entertaining and quicker-to-read than academic journals. Our Tips and Reminders are more straightforward than other blogs’. Our Anthro Toolkit offers more ready-to-use insights and media than any other database!

“Entertain me. What’s this blog’s backstory?”
I grew up on a diet of adventure fiction, from Alexandre Dumas to Joss Whedon, so it pains me when people say the Age of Exploration is over. Especially when so many subcultures still need exploring! Granted, we already know where all the continents are, but the fact remains that two sides of the same city can be entirely different worlds. As an anthropologist, I make it my job to explore those worlds.

Indeed, in all my freshman brilliance, I first declared my major in “anthropology” — the holistic study of humankind — thinking of it as a major in “adventure.” During my research, I’ve gotten blessed and damned while exploring religious subcultures like Evangelical Street Preaching, Psychic World, and Krishna Consciousness. I’ve also gotten my teeth broken while documenting the etiquette of violence among martial artists, and bled from my eyes after starting my own boxing club as a social experiment. Overall, I get spooked and roughed up a lot.

Then I graduated, declined my best job offer to help a loved one with surgery, and found myself unemployed in a tough job market. Eventually, I turned my anthro skills toward exploring humankind’s most lucrative social force — business. Nowadays, I explore different communities, research their wants and needs, and build new businesses to serve them. I’m also attending grad school, for entrepreneurship.

Now I run a blog, and I write what I know:
How to use anthropology, in business and ADVENTURE!!!!

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Jesus says:

Your name reminds me of a common German word: Arschloch!

Ashkuff says:

[Laughs Out Loud] I got that joke a lot when I visited Munchen. So don’t be such a pain in my Arsch!

Mimi says:

Squinting THOR can absolutely NOT HAVE THEM BOTH. Yes some cultures allow it…. but my head never will. I think the dude (the other super-hero freak) was just trying to p### me off when he said THOR preferred Jane Foster. I think THOR and Sif belong together and Jane’s a novelty, a little distraction that will soon wear off… Two people need to have similar… everything. Opposites attract but when you peel the newness away, you find yourself with the two people who don’t have anything in common. Doesn’t value what you value.

Doesn’t cherish what you cherish. When your heart skips a beat seeing the Hulk in his awesomeness save Iron man in his one hand while his other arm is holding onto a building and your other half thinks your looney cause they’re just superheroes your other half isn’t really your other half. Now are they.

Ashkuff says:

You know what? I don’t think Thor belongs with either. Clearly, Thor and Jane don’t share anything in common, and that kind of emotional thorn easily gets infected. That said, Sif doesn’t consistently attract Thor’s attention, which is a sign of bad chemistry.

CLEARLY, IN TRULY OVER-COMPLICATED COMICS FASHION, WE NEED A THIRD LADY INTRODUCED INTO THE PLOT. PERHAPS SOMEBODY WHO’S PERFECT FOR THOR, YET IS (UNHAPPILY?) MARRIED! OH! AND JANE AND SIF SHOULD DEVELOP FEELINGS FOR NEW GIRL’S HUSBAND! IT’LL BE A LOVE PENTANGLE!

Mimi says:

I think your’re full of it .

BUT

You’re right. I concur. *sigh* You win.

Lets hook Thor up. I’m pretty sure that between the two of us we’ll find him a suitable lady. How about Rogue? How about Wonder Woman? How about me?
(giggles)
I don’t know any unhappily married superheroes. Storm and T’challa are married but I’m pretty sure she’s happy. Big black and ripped. I’m sure she doesn’t mind picking up his damp towels.
I don’t like love pentangles, it makes me uncomfortable. WHY ARE YOU SHOUTING????CRAZY PERSON. (giggles)

Mimi says:

The best way to get to know someone is to spend time with them. Why I fell in love with Anthropology in the first place. Even though other disciplines like psychology and sociology study people anthropology is the only field that is founded on Ethnography. A fancy word which really means immersing yourself with a group for the sole purpose of learning and then ultimately documenting what you find. Interpreting and then sharing. Why?

Why do we do this? Why not is what I say. We’ve been studying everything else but ourselves for the longest time. Where would the world be without Anthropologists.

So I burn the midnight oil and study as hard as I can. I know better than most that a degree behind your name speaks volumes. The world needs to view me competent and the best way it knows how to do that is to see my experience and qualification. Anthropology isn’t a household name. The terminology we use and the methods we adopt are strange to most. So studying is a must and aligning and exposing yourself to fellow Anthropologists is almost a necessity for success.

Doing my assignments are a breeze. Had to do a piece on symbolism and what it means to an Anthropologist. I smiled.

I’ve done your Astro profile and it’s spot on. I had a good laugh and went. \”Good grief, that sounds like a bulldozer.\”

Erica says:

I like to think I have the inside look at “Ashkuff”.

And let me tell you, this is one impressive, dashing man.
And, every word on this blog is true. He really does make things into an adventure, whether its taking a deliberate wrong turn and then discovering a new part of town, or just shopping in the grocery store.
“This is a strange looking fruit. Let’s get it!”
“Let’s just see where this road takes us…”

I love learning from him, every single day.
He is passionate and kind; and incredibly dedicated.

Mimi says:

Wow, I’m kinda speechlees.
It’s really coool that the person you’re describing is the person we get to glimpse on these pages.

Mimi says:

The newsletter is a hit! I am so proud of my work..
Wish I could show you! That would be awesome.. Can I feature your article in the next issue? The article you wrote for the Huff Post? I am afterall the Editor and have that power. *grins like a cheshire*
Your insight was as usual very insightful..I had some of my “non-anthro” friends read it and the first thing I noticed is that they understood so A+. You reached all audiences and you had very valid points and gifted us with a new perspective.

Mimi on Racial tension..
Racial concerns in South Africa is not a concern. Apartheid had it’s time but it’s over now. Yes remnants do remain, when you see a large ethnic group still occupying the lower end of the job market but because of BEE (black economic empowerment) that same ethnic group has preference over high end positions in major corporations and industries. Some people call it reverse racism, I disagree. The evils of segregation in South Africa are still in front of my eyes. I live on the outskirts of rural areas and I see what Apartheid has done.It has left some ugly scars. I also know our black South Africans are proud of having made a bad situation work, so I will never describe those areas for fear of being insulting.
The other remnant of Apartheid is our notorious Cape Flats. I watched a documentary (Sam Kiley) about the current state of these areas. It’s dismal (I could have told him that), drug usage among the youth is high. It’s the exception not the rule to be using drugs.That is a tale for another time. The question I ask is, how does so much hatred towards someone with a different colour skin still manifest itself in our current times?

People fear the unknown and have invented mechanisms for coping. Albeit some of the mechanisms include ethnic cleansing but this is not a frequent occurrence. So the question is not that people fear the unknown so much. I think it stems from the thought, realisation or feeling that your own ethnic group is somewhat fading out of the limelight losing it’s “power” and influence. In turn you now feel powerless and insignificant. It’s scary and amazing how narrow minded some folk are. I’m using that word flippantly. Forgive me. Social similarities and universal moral conduct has dictated the understanding of “narrow mindedness” and so I’m exploiting that for the sake of understanding. I don’t however agree with the general definition.
Maybe seeing a black president running the country stirs the feeling of fading, the feeling of powerlessness in some ethnic groups. The answer to this ‘dilemma’ in the minds of some is to assert some presence. “Let’s show the world that we are not powerless and insignificant.” The “intellectual” mind will cope with this feeling of unimporatnce by having their voice heard finding socially acceptable ways to cope with the feeling.

A person who sees limited options might resort to violence against the ethnic group that sees to aid in the fading out of ones own culture and heritage…

Ashkuff says:

“I am so proud of my work”
Ha! I used to say that all the time.
Still say it.

Glad to hear your newsletter did so well with its first swing! Don’t get lazy, though. Readers are fickle. Out of curiosity, what was your success metric? Like, how do you KNOW your newsletter did so well? Lots of replies? Hits? Pats on the back? I want details!

What keeps you from forwarding your newsletter to me?
(pouts lip, disappointed) I honestly wanted to read it.

As for reusing my article? I’d be honored. However, even if you have MY permission, I’m unsure if you need Huffpost’s. Always glad to hear my writing was accessible to “non-anthropologists.” That’s what I was aiming for. Thanks for the feedback.

As for your notes on SA? I’m a little confused. You opened up by saying that “Racial concerns in South Africa is not a concern,” then follow up with a list of racial concerns. Did I overlook an ironic tone? Or, perhaps, am I missing something else entirely?

Mimi says:

A survey was sent regarding the newsletter. More than 50% of the readers selected “Totally Awesome.” I also received some pats on the back and some negative feedback, which is always positive when you take it on board and see the value in someone taking the time to offer constructive feedback, which it was.

I can unfortunately not forward the newsletter to you, You know the usual corporate red tape (LOL). “I\’m unsure if you need Huffpost\’s.” – Please do enquire your piece will fit into the “current news section U.S.A.” Which will be totally awesome.

“As for your notes on SA? I\’m a little confused. You opened up by saying that \”Racial concerns in South Africa is not a concern,\”

Ashkuff says:

50% approval is pretty solid, all things considered. 50% of how many?

(get defensive of cyber protegee)
You got negative feedback?
What kind of negative feedback?
Do I need to go smack some better taste into someone?
(Laughs Out Loud)

I’m still having trouble sussing out my rights regarding the article I wrote for HuffPost, and by this point, it’s probably yesterday’s news. Let me know if you’re still interested or not.

I missed the tone of irony in your comment about SA. Probably my fault, though. I always read things with he most pessimistic tone imaginable.

Maybe the word “concern” means something different between SA and USA? If a nation is actively trying to “make amends” over racism, doesn’t that imply that it’s still “concerned” with race?

As for finding balance? Yes, always a fine goal to strive for.

BTW, did you see The Avengers?! It was pretty awesome. Better yet, I didn’t realize that it was written and directed by one of my favorite artists: Joss Whedon! The creator of Buffy! AHHHH! (could die from enthusiasm poisoning)

Mimi says:

Hi *waves hello to AL* could you be so kind as to remove my duplicate post, it’s messing with my OCD I keep seeing it and it makes me cringe. *chuckles* I feel totally out of touch.
I am also struggling with the realisation that I’m a hopeless romantic, never knew it.
See I met someone, flew all the way from New Jersey to meet me. Needless to say we are now romantically involved *shoo that sounds cheesy* is there space for romance when you’re an anthropologist travelling the world, doing research for months at a time. What happens when you both practicing anthropologists?
The same thing that drew us together is keeping us apart. *wow, I feel like a cheeseburger with that one* (Laughs out loud)

I haven’t enrolled for any subjects this semester and this is adding to my directionless state of being. I am definitely doing subjects next month and will probably have loads to say. My university loves assignments. *rolls eyes*

Your new profile blog pic looks absolutely awesome fantastic. It’s really you, which means that it’s really cool. I love it.
Regarding the use of the word concern, it looks like we are using it differently.
The word concern has negative connotations this side of the world, so illustrating the that it’s absent means that things on the racial front is under control and not a sore focal point, just a focal point. Make sense?
BTW right back at ya. I have seen Avengers and am still on cloud one million and ten; I’m going to see it soon, AGAIN! I am now officially a HULK freak-fan. Captain America aka stick in the mud is slowly becoming my least favourite. Is he always so morbid?

Ashkuff says:

Huh? There’s a duplicate post? Where? I don’t see it. (looks embarrassed)

(sighs to self) I used to consider myself a romantic. Sincerely, I wish you better luck with it than I had.

That said, this sounds like a pretty awesome romance. Like, something you could make a movie about. This lucky gentleman, is he someone I know? Does he, perhaps, fly around writing about Africa’s traditional cultures?

Ah, now things make more sense. The word “concern” can have negative connotations over here, too. But it depends on how you say it, and that’s hard to get across in writing.

Glad you liked the new design.
What do you think of the NEW new design?
(Laughs Out Loud)

(gasps) I cannot BELIEVE you don’t like Cap! He’s my favorite avenger, so far. Maybe because I relate to his back story. I’m a sucker for underdogs-turned-epic.

Mimi says:

I would love to do an Astro profile on you AL, send me your Time and date of birth will ya.

Did I mention that I love being the Editor of Amazon’s newsletter? I get to interview awesome fantastic people. At first I was scared and skeptical, I didn’t really know what was potting but I can definitely say that now I feel way more confident. I’m doing it and I’m doing it well.

Did you say you use to be a romantic? Oh no AL. What happenend? If you’re inlove right now then you’re a romantic. Don’t sweat it. Okay, lets start over…What’s your definition of a romantic? Maybe we need to clear that up first.

Sweet of you to call my romantic interest “lucky” you making me blush.
I do believe we could write a movie about it, our romance and you would have a starring role because you my friend played match maker very well.

How did you guess?

Your site is absolutely awesome. You do everything so tastefully. Well done.
Are you ever going to slow down and take a break? Maybe you should make more time for romance….Just saying

P.S Cap aka Captain Amerca is a wet blanket. He was never the underdog, remember the scene when he’s in the army and they throw a dummy bomb and everyone runs away but he jumps on it shielding everybody by laying on top of it. That’s how I like to remember him, not this whinny, sourpuss… Just saying

P.P.S I miss you when I’m away but when I come back it’s like I never left…This is my happy place… don’t ever forget that AL *blows AL a kiss*

Ashkuff says:

Nov, 1986. I’m so stereotypically “Scorpio,” I practically have claws.

I’d say I’m “proud” of your newsletter, but that doesn’t quite say it. “Stunned” is better. I’ve never seen a first-timer get off the ground so well. Congratulations! Keep it up.

Although, come to think of it, it’s been a little while since I responded. I hope you’re still editing the newsletter. Yes? You haven’t lost momentum since our last exchange?

I think of “romantics” in terms of the literary archetype. They’re passionate, loyal, and often confront insurmountable odds. Dumas’ portrayal of Cyrano De Bergerac makes a great example. I used to consider myself one, until I realized that they have a tendency to die alone, and that I was driving myself in that direction.

Glad I helped! For the record, I’m an experienced actor, and a lovably clumsy “Best Man.” So, if they make a romantic comedy about your relationship, gimme a call. (Laughs Out Loud)

You always make my blog want to hug itself. That said, I’ve taken the past month or so off any major projects and design work, specifically to focus on my relationship.

How can you say he ole’ Cap was never an underdog? As a normie, he got himself roughed up in alleyways. As a superhero, he got himself roughed up while squaring off with Loki for the first time. Maybe it’s just me, but I have a weakness for characters that take a beating, but keep up the good fight.

For the record, I always miss your commentary whenever you’re away.
It’s always among the best.

Mimi says:

Okay let me say it again, I need the time you were born and trust me mom’s know exactly when they pushed your fat head out into the world, she’ll know.

You know, when I ask for your details it’s purely selfish, I’ve seen the value in Astrology. I only ask after I’ve gotten to know the person, who invariable becomes a subject. To understand why you do the things you do and why you say the things you say. I have years of data I’ve gathered from individuals. It helps me (but is not limited to) communicate better and I get to glimpse your dreams. Like a sneak peak.

I know you’re a run of the mill Scorpio I see it a mile away. Your claws are harmless they sting because they have to. We only hurt because we’ve been hurt. The sad truth…The ones we love the most hurt us the most. It sounds cheesy but it’s true.

When you say experience actor, what are you saying? How do your family and friends know when you’re being genuine if you’re an actor? It would freak me out if we were dating. \”Are you really listening to me Al?!\”

Ashkuff says:

Apparently, I kicked my way into this world around noon.

I have mixed emotions about Astrology. Most of the astrology I’ve seen speaks in such spectacular generality, it could apply to anybody. Like, sure, I’m a stereotypical Scorpio. I’m also a stereotypical Aries, it would seem. That was even a nickname of mine, years ago. That said, however, maybe I’ve never seen astrology done CORRECTLY. So, that’s where I stand.

When I say I’m an experienced actor, I mean: I starred in dozens of local productions through highschool and early college. I wrote, produced, and directed a few plays of my own. Even started a theatre company, once. Also won a few minor acting awards in the process.

As for people knowing if I’m lying? I’ve had problems with that. My acting history, taken with the sheer unlikelihood of my adventures, has made a lot of people doubt my stories. For what little it’s worth, though, I have special rules about not lying to anybody on “my team.”

And yes, I’ve had chicks ask if I’m really listening to them. I usually repeat everything they just said verbatim, or if I can do that, I simply apologize for phasing out. Lol.

Of course I’d like to help with your assignment! Although, I feel like the deadline may’ve passed by now. Sorry my responses have been delayed, I’ve been distracted. Relocated towns, recently. Broke up with my girlfriend of three years, too. Oh, also, major career moves remain in the works.

I see where you’re coming from about Cap. Maybe I like “early Cap” more than “later Cap.” (shrugs nonchalantly)

First of all, in plenty of cultures, Thor COULD TOTALLY have both. Come to think of it, where do Vikings stand on polygamy? Lol. That said, I think he has more in common with Sif, and that feels super important to me.

Mimi says:

People fear the unknown and have invented mechanisms for coping. Albeit some of the mechanisms include ethnic cleansing but this is not a frequent occurrence. So the question is not that people fear the unknown so much. I think it stems from the thought, realisation or feeling that your own ethnic group is somewhat fading out of the limelight losing it’s “power” and influence. In turn you now feel powerless and insignificant. It’s scary and amazing how narrow minded some folk are. I’m using that word flippantly. Forgive me. Social similarities and universal moral conduct has dictated the understanding of “narrow mindedness” and so I’m exploiting that for the sake of understanding. I don’t however agree with the general definition.
Maybe seeing a black president running the country stirs the feeling of fading, the feeling of powerlessness in some ethnic groups. The answer to this ‘dilemma’ in the minds of some is to assert some presence. “Let’s show the world that we are not powerless and inconsequential.” The “intellectual” mind will cope with this feeling of unimporatnce by having their voice heard; finding socially acceptable ways to cope with the feeling.

A person who sees limited options might resort to violence against the ethnic group that sees to aid in the fading out of ones own culture and heritage…

Mimi says:

Checklist for an awesome interview aka ethnographic respodency..
I have copied and pasted this to my head *laughs*

“Some notes on \”ethnographic respondency\”

Ashkuff says:

Glad to help.

mimi says:

Took me this long to see your response! Clearly distracted!

Ashkuff says:

Took ME this long to see YOUR post! (Laughs Out Loud)

Jarrett Corino says:

Could there be a issue with the CSS here? I can’t make out anything here without highlighting it with the mouse, due to the fact it’s all white. I’m using Mozilla Firefox if it helps.

Darmowe konto w banku dla dzieci says:

Awesome blog! Where did you get that awesome layout?

Ashkuff says:

Damn, I can’t tell if this is spam or not. I’ll give you the benefit of a doubt, and assume not.

So… glad you like my blog! To answer your question, I designed the layout myself.

Mimi says:

Lets see where you go * 3rd time lucky* “The less people speak of their greatness,
the more we think of it.” Lord Bacon

Mimi says:

*Testing..1…2…3*
I don’t even wanna know how you managing to keep your cool. If my website got destroyed I would’ve had a nervous breakdown.
Luckily for you, you have a very, very smart girl. I do however like gory details. Maybe you should give us a blow by blow account of your reactions when you heard the news.
Did you bang your head, scream like a girl. Throw up, grind your teeth. What?! Got ta tell us.

It feels like I’m back in the game, my head is less foggy and I can make life altering decisions. (Pudding no pudding) I have so many things in the pipeline, I’m gonna need a plumber soon *smiles knowingly*

You of course will be the first to know. I only have one cyber – mentor. (For now) I had to read some of our old conversations, totally awesome and I can clearly see where I lost some of my mental prowess. (Due to umm..circumstance)
Oh, I had an epiphany, I realized that in the age of social networking you’re as famous as your last post or status update. What was witty and unique a few moments ago is now a forgotten hero.
So, with your permission over lord Ashkuff, I would like to copy some of our conversations and “debates” on to the FAQ page. That way your response is not lost in a sea of likes and random comments. (You have weird friends by the way)

Mimi’s to do list
Go to Namibia
Find value proposition (hurry Al I work at a huge corp.)
Play Mass Effect 3
Play Mass Effect 3
Play Mass Effect 3
Play Mass Effect 3
Play Mass Effect 3

Ashkuff says:

I am incapable of having a nervous breakdown, because that would entail having intact nerves to begin with. Which I do not. (Laughs Out Loud) I’m a very jumpy type.

As for the gory details? I realized the site was down, wanted to freak, but told myself it was probably a minor technical issue, and called the technical service line. They informed me it was no minor technical issue, and they had mistakenly destroyed my website and all its backups. I responded “Oh, well, YOU GUYS REALLY F##### ME OVER, THEN!!! Sorry, pardon my language. I’m just a little upset, BECAUSE YOU JUST F##### ME OVER SO BAD. I want to speak with your manager. No, I want to speak with HIS manager. You know what? CEO. Connect me with your Chief Executive Officer.” Then they put me on hold for forty five minutes. I then proceeded to manically pace around my apartment, swearing under my breath, occasionally stopping to punch a wall and repress righteous screams of anger. Then I ran out of energy, and called my mother (an engineer) to whine like a big kid and ask for advice. Then I called my girl (a tech) and continued to whine like a big kid. Eventually, we came up with the less-than-ideal, though less-than-catastrophic, plan of recovering data with Google Cache.

Glad to hear your head is clearing up!
Pretty quick recovery, all things considered.

Feel free to copy and past to your heart’s content.

And yes, I do have weird friends. One of them is from South Africa, studies anthropology, and reads comic books.

Mimi says:

(Let’s see where you go)…”Hear the meaning within the word.” William Shakespeare

Mimi says:

Let’s see where you go…”Arguing with a fool proves there are two.” Doris M. Smith

Mimi says:

#disclaimer# *really sad face* I give up trying to keep these posts in chronological order. It looked so neat the other day, wish I took a picture.

It looks the \”same\”

Ashkuff says:

Come now! Once you get the hang of it, it’s simple to keep these in order. Just keep hitting the last “click here” link that appears in a nested thread. I know, I need to make it more user-friendly. It’s just not on top of my to-do list.

Thought the quotes you splattered everywhere were kinda cool, BTW.

No big changes to the site, besides hundreds of broken links. (Laughs Out Loud)

Yeah, sorry about my poor fbook etiquette. Nothing personal. I’m a little scatterbrained, and teh internetz only make it worse.

As for your inability to copy things from my website: I have no idea why that’s happening. I share everything under Creative Commons licences, so I actually WANT people to make copies. (sighs heavily) I guess I’ll add that to my list of glitches to hammer out.

As for the air force thing, I was just making trouble for fun. Sorry if I spooked your friends. (Laughs Out Loud) Sadly, we’re out of my area of expertise. If there was any airborne warfare before the 1800s, I’m pretty much unaware of it. (pauses) On second thought, the Bhagavad Gita DOES mention some kind of aerial battle during ancient times. Of course, that’s mythic history and therefore hard to substantiate.

Mimi says:

I got the hang of it. No need to make it user friendly and no need to fix the “copy and paste” thing. It does work properley. I must’ve done something wrong.

You know before your site went schitzo I posted a reply to my favourite piece. The very first article you ever wrote. I have no idea why it draws me so.

Even now I sit here and I can recall parts of it from memmroy. It’s creeping me out actually. I asked you a couple of quesions about what you wrote.

Where did it go, I can’t find it and I’m filled with a sense of loss.

Mimi says:

I keep forgetting to mention that I got Editor< all I had to do was want it.
No one else wanted to fill that role?! Makes me wonder\”

Ashkuff says:

I’m glad you eventually got the hang of it. However, as a designer, I feel the learning curve shouldn’t take more than a couple seconds. Sooo… I’ll work on it if I ever get the chance.

I will probably restore that post you like eventually. It’s one of nearly a hundred lost articles. (pouts lip) But don’t worry. I saved most of the data, unformatted as it may be, and it’s not lost forever.

Don’t feel bad if nobody else wanted your job! Nobody ever wants to invest the energy to polish a rough opportunity. People prefer cutting each others’ throats in competition for already-polished opportunities. (Laughs Out Loud) It’s a good title to have, and it sounds like there’s potential to be had. Have you ever seen the movie “The Rum Diaries?” I hear it’s all about a guy who took a job nobody else wanted, and made it into something cool. I also hear it’s based on a true story.

As for giving you editing tips? Damn, I’m useless. Sure, I edit the newsletter for my own website, but it’s just not my specialty. Once again, however, networking comes to the rescue! I have an editor-turned-anthropologist friend. I’ll see if she wants to chat with you.

Glad to hear you have some buzz already! Shoot me anything you want on Fbook, but be warned: I need lots of advance warning and a deadline. My to-do is about to explode.

Mimi says:

I could use a little or a lot of rum right now. The cheap S#### will do.
You are absolutely right when you say,”Nobody ever wants to invest the energy to polish a rough opportunity. People prefer cutting each others\’ throats in competition for already-polished opportunities.” How did you know this and I didn’t see it?

BTW. I thought you were going to offer me an explanation on why I am so “freakishly obsessed” with that post of yours. I’m cosmically drawn, like you talking to me from another time and place, okay I’m gonna stop now getting gooseflesh.

I have such awesome ideas for the newsletter that I would love to share> How do I work around the element of not giving away too much? I passed on your website and vids to loads of colleaugues. Also, seeing as I’m going to be Editor might as well give my cyber-mentor a really cool spot in MY newsletter. How would you like me to introduce you? In my article about culture? Or in the “cool places to be?” Maybe we could put you down as cyber-mentor for hire with your pic next to it. You’ll definitely get some umm groupies I mean interest. You are so popular with the girls in Cape Town. I get shoved right out of the way when your face loads on my laptop.*Laughs out loud*
When last have you written a new bio about yourself? As awesome as this is, “How to venture out of armchair scolarship and into action is,” a new fresh catchphrase would be great. Just saying.

Oh you know what would be really awesome, is if you could acttually give me some feedback on the piece I wrote for you, like 5 years and 10 Sundays ago. (just feedback, don’t post it) That way I can put your ever valuable advice to good use. Just call me… Editor and Chief of “The Jungle.” *shh don’t tell anyone* I think that name is oh so cool and fitting! Considering the name of the place where I work.

Ashkuff says:

Nothing wrong with a a couple mugs of rum. Just try to stay in control of yourself. Cool? The only thing we can ever hope to control in this world, is ourselves.

The only reason I knew about all the throat-cutting is because of all the scars on my neck.

No idea why you liked that one post of mine so much. I thought it was one of my weaker pieces. (Laughs Out Loud) Shows what I know. (shrugs) Maybe you liked all the introspection?

Few things could make me happier, than being mentioned in your newsletter. I’m trying to build up a newsletter of my own, so I’m eager to learn.

Glad to hear at least ONE city’s ladies have good taste. Would’ve loved to know that, like, three years ago. Might’ve moved there. (Laughs Out Loud) At present, however, I’m happily involved with a wonderfully protective girl. Sooo… I don’t know what that does to my brand image.

I keep meaning to write a new bio! Just kinda smothered by the rest of my to-do list. You’ll see why soon. (looks very excited)

(hangs head, shamefully) I want to give you feedback on that piece you wrote me. Honest. But it’ll take a little while longer. Just keep nagging me.

Mimi says:

Sounds like we both have exciting new developments, if you share then I will share, I killed two birds with one stone, no actually THREE! My anthropological career just sky rocketed through the roof.

Last night I was researching information for an anthropologist in the field. The feeling was so awesome words will fail to describe it. I think we take for granted how lucky we are to have found our passion and we do everything we can to make things happen.

Just have to say well done to the dude who ripped you up on faceboook (he did),
well done for taking you on and standing up for what he believes in. It’s in moments like those that I find strength to face the day, It’s not always easy being alone, a single mom has it’s own unique challenges.

Please work on that bio, otherwise I’ll just make one up for you, I have deadlines you know. Also, having a girl doesn’t always help your brand but having a beautiful smart girl like yours ups your rating…True

Ashkuff says:

Meh? Exactly WHO ripped me up? If we’re thinking about the same guy, I refuted every one of his points, he dropped most of my points, and then he resorted to name calling. Pshaw! Standing up to me is no big feat, and I’ve certainly been ripped apart before, but not by that guy. (tries to force a smile)

Glad to hear you’re making professional strides, though! If you have deadlines to meet, let me know what they are, and I’ll put it on my stress list. (Laughs Out Loud)

Mimi says:

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT TO ALL ANTHROPOLOGISTS

“If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough.” \”

Mimi says:

(See, now there is no “reply to this comment” I had to click under my oh so wise words.)
Okay, okay he didn’t rip you up I just wanted you to explain what happenend and tyo point out that he resorted to name calling.*snickers* I do that sometimes, pretend stupidity, say something random, pretend that I don’t get it and fake a headache *laughs softly* Just to get a reaction, explanation a conviction, escape. Thank you for playing along…

I do however love it when people stick up for themsleves and for what they believe in.
BTW, what does, “meh,” mean? Also, it does take a lot of guts to “take you on!”
You best believe that I’m not going to offer you an explanation on my above declaration, your head is big enough. *rolls eyes*

I am beyond perceptive and I have noticed that you are replying sooner than you normally do but with less meat in your response. You are definitely distracted.
Can’t you please give me a little clue as to WHAT YOU ARE DOING. *i’m giving you my puppy dog look* Just a clue..

Sara MK says:

so sympathetic when I read that you had to decline that wonderful opportunity to work for Disney Co. to help a loved one recover from surgery. So compassionate you are and too difficult dilemma you had to pass. I would cast doubt on making such a decision and missing such a great chance if i were in your shoes. But I\’m sure your great kindness will yield much more achievements in business anthropology and absolutely beyond and far beyond in your life. Good Luck.

Ashkuff says:

Awww, Sara. You flatter me. Really, after all my mom\’s done for me, this was the least I could do. And frankly, I was a little raw about the way Disney treated me during the application process, anyway. But still, thanks for the morale support! I can use all I can get.

Mimi Smit says:

How refreshing to meet a fellow anthropologist who shares my \”fresh\”

Ashkuff says:

Wow, mimi!
That was a pretty thorough post.
Thanks for all your input.

Rest assured, however, anthropology is pretty obscure at least as far away as the US. I\’ve had people e-mail me about pest problems, because they mistook me for an arthropologist. (rolls eyes) That said, feel free to point fingers at the anthro departments. I graduated and felt more than a little left in the cold, myself. I\’ve really had to work hard to make my studies applicable to mainstream affairs.

For the record, if you do anthropological research, then you\’re an anthropologist. No need for pseudotitles like \”soon to be anthropologist,\”

Mimi Smit says:

You don\’t need to hear it but I\’ll say it anyway. Thank you for responding to my post aka rant.
You made my day.
I randomly burst into laughter when I think about the pest problem scenario.

I saw your post on Open Anthropology Cooperation.\’Can we really understand a cultural/social phenomenon using just one theoretical framework or specific analytical tool/lens?\’

The open sentence and your picture grabbed my attention.(I have regular debates in my head \”is that really him?\”

Ashkuff says:

Damn straight I need to hear \”thank yous!\”

Mimi Smit says:

I loooked at the link. The work that\’s being done there is AMAAAAZING. It\’s a tough job making sure your interpretations are accurate when documenting native culture.

I on the other hand am i\’m researching how native culture has evolved. How people have adapted to their current surroundings. ie How different religions have been integrated with traditional african culture.
BUT\”

Ashkuff says:

Glad you like Toure\’s work.
He\’s a pretty cool guy.

So when you say you\’re \”researching how native culture has evolved,\”

Mimi Smit says:

Hmm..Deswork phase?Methods?. I\’m in the trying to make sense of my new passion, studying really hard phase.

My methods are rudimentary at this stage.
*Disclaimer*When I say native culture i\’m referring to bantu-speaking people.

I observe, ask questions, get a feel of their outlook on various topics.

Last week I visited an informal settlement at 3.00 in the morning(I figured that would be the safest time). Just to observe how the locals get to work and back. It was a bit scary but hey I learned alot. I saw/observed what people don\’t usually get to see.
what method is this?

I just feel that even though we are a \”new South Africa\”

Ashkuff says:

What\’s next?
I figure I\’ll advise you to avoid my own shortcomings.

Let\’s start with networking. I only recently started to focus on networking, which has worked against me. I figured it was all about good technique and quality ethnography, but none of that can happen without a proper network of advice, funding, marketing, and stuff like that. So be bold and meet people in your field, make friends. Professors, business people, politicians and any other professional whose work you admire. In the US, this process can be as simple as walking into an office, introducing yourself and your intentions, and volunteering to do menial tasks. I\’ve offered to wash politicians\’ windows. Even in the US, this may seem very forward, but it makes a statement about your work ethic and determination. I\’ll get you started. Lanfia Toure does work very closely related to yours, so you should drop him a line at www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=557194281

If you wanna think a step ahead, I also suggest business classes and some deep meditation on how you\’re going to generate payable value. I plan to pursue an MBA in business marketing and entrepreneurship, then a PhD in business anthropology but, in retrospect, I really wish I had completed at least a minor in business. The collection of business classes has served me well, and I suggest even more of them to everybody else. Afterall, even the best ethnographies don\’t enlighten anyone, if nobody wants to pay to read them.

Mimi says:

Thank you for the invaluable insight and forewarning. The gems of wisdom you\’ve amassed from your experience is clear in your words.

I have loads ponder.

Ashkuff says:

Ponder. Like mad.

Mimi says:

Update Update

Dear cyber-mentor aka Ashkuff

Guess what I\’ve been doing. Ok don\’t guess I\’ll tell you. Lanfia and I are chatting
He is like you said a nice guy. His work, his site, is inspiring and refreshing.
What an intelligent call to point me in his direction. His connected and still connecting me to Anthropologists closer to home
In many ways.

*Disclaimer* I don\’t usually flatter people I think it can come across cheesy.

You mentioned taking business classes. Do you think It wise if I don\’t see myself heading in that direction?
What about international relations? I often wonder what role that plays in the anthro world.

Your minion *giggles*
Mimi

Ashkuff says:

Glad to hear it. Don\’t lose momentum, though. Lanfia\’s a real academic badass, but he\’s not enough by himself. No one person is ever enough. Be sure to strike out and network with others, as well.

As for those business classes? If you cannot see yourself using a class in real life, but you take it anyway, then you\’ll usually just resent it and not learn anything. That\’s what happened to me with most of my general education courses. There are, however, exceptions. In retrospect, I am very glad I took \”Statistics 101.\”

Ashkuff says:

Oh, also? Do me a favor and tell me if this interactiv video I made works on your computer: ashkuff.com/akaBlog/?p=5717 It\’s been glitchy.

Mimi says:

I have not been able to view the video. I\’ve tried my phone and desktop.
It says ERROR. Too large\”

Ashkuff says:

…

Ashkuff says:

(smirks) I never thought of \”bad ass\”

Ashkuff says:

I\’m unfamiliar with \”Communication Science\”

Mimi says:

Your description of Bad Ass is sooo totally not what it is down South. [Laughing so Loud it hurts]
Nobody really refers to themselves as bad ass. Its not as impressive as your description.

Communication Science is not a field it\’s really just the Science of Communicating. The University of South Africa is as far as I know the only institute that attaches that subject to its BA.
I am not trying to \”

Ashkuff says:

Good practice, looking up everybody\’s staff. I always suggest getting in touch, though. Seriously, weird specializations or not, you never know who has hidden useful skills. Think of the old fable, with the lion and the mouse.

(smirks a little) Heh. Even if I could fix anything, it\’ll still take time, so the question here is getting a return on my time investment. It seems to work on most other people\’s machines. But, since I\’m partial to ya, how about this: go to the app, when it fails to load, do a screen capture and send it to me. I can\’t do good trouble shooting without good data.

Also, what\’s wrong with Romance Writing?

Mimi says:

That\’s all good and well getting \”

Ashkuff says:

You meant romance novels, like tsk tsk tsk.
I meant romantic literature, like the dramas of Alexandre Dumas.
I\’m pretty sure that\’s humorous. Right?
(insert laughter here)

Mimi says:

I\’m having a grumpy anthro social networking day.. No bites.
Okay maybe one or two bites; did you send someone my way? That one doesn\’t count if you did.

Why can\’t the prerequisite for being a practicing anthropologist be \”

Ashkuff says:

Just keep swinging. I don\’t know ANYBODY who sucessfully makes useful connections EVERYDAY. The goal is to simply REACH OUT to someone new every day; at that rate, you\’ll probably make a useful new friend every week or two.

Any yeah, for hardened social scientists, anthropologists aren\’t very social. I feel like there\’s a lot of academic elitism at play, and that interferes with practical dialog. (shrugs to self) Social evolution, though. If they fail to reach out and adapt, the elitist academics will eventually go extinct. Just stay friendly about it, keep your skills sharp, knowledge up to date, and give it some time.

Yeah, I used to be all into the Forty-Seven Ronin Incident and similar lit. But sadly, as someone who speaks no Japanese and practices almost no kendo, I didn\’t feel like I could relate. At a minimum, I can fence half-competently and speak a little French, making me partial toward EuroAmerica\’s swashbuckler. Just a personal disposition. I say EuroAMERICA, by the way, because our continent saw plenty of epicness in the Caribbean, a la Sabantini\’s \”Captain Blood.\”

Mimi says:

Okay I get your point. You don\’t have to shout *pouts*
One day at a time. Thanks you took the words right out of my head \”

Ashkuff says:

Didn\’t mean t shout, just meant to be emphatic. That\’s why I used capitals, but no exclamation mark. Sorry if it read poorly.

And about me become an academic elitist? Already there. I went to a fairly pretentious university, and I have to make a conscious effort not to look down on my own BA because it\’s not a PhD. Of course, some of anthropology\’s greats never even went to anthro school at all. Levi-Strauss, for example, studied law and philosophy.

Absolutely, there\’s more than a language barrier at play here. I\’m more into EuroAmerican swashbuckling, in lieu of Japanese samurais, because I fence. I\’ve only practiced kendo once or twice. Makes it easier to relate.

As for my secret for staying on top of things? There is no secret. I loose my balance, and fall off my game, on a regular basis. I just scramble to get back on top so quick that people rarely notice the difference. Also, an electronic day planner and lots of espresso help. (Laughs Out Loud)

Mimi says:

Can you please clean up your room. Our conversations are all over the place, it doesn\’t follow a chronological order. When I reply I have to scroll up and down and down and up. I get whiplash.

Mr Levi Strauss..Philosophy..Law..it\’s amazing how many people don\’t know that those two fields go together. That\’s what anthro\’s do. Make connections.

Oh my hat..I just saw the order of the posts. It\’s not messy at all..One line then two lines..one line then two lines.In the middle is where the madness started, I mean mentoring started *grinning like a cheshire*

Okay, so you don\’t do kenjutsu (I know that you partial to kendo because you do fencing..Duh). How did you start with fencing? The history of the Samurai is so captivating. The katana looks imposing.Why choose fencing? EuroAmerican swashbuckler? Elaborate more. (your made-up word, that has so many meanings its hard to comprehend)

Does the espresso really work? (I\’m not being sarcastic)
I don\’t drink coffee.Ever. I\’m going to need a sustitute. Do you really have a day planner?

I asked ALOT of questions..Can you keep up?..Lanfia does *sticking out tongue*

Ashkuff says:

The katana, admittedly, looks very scary.
However, at the end of the day, I don\’t believe in getting killed \”scarier.\”

Ashkuff says:

Oh! Also, according to nobody but myself, \”EuroAmerica\”

Mimi says:

Ashkuff..Ashkuff..Where are you?

I\’m having abandonment isssues\”

Ashkuff says:

(swoops in on an adventurer\’s rope, lands awkwardly)
I\’m back! Sorry I fell out of touch. Pulled a day job, also left town for a bit.
What can I do for you?

Mimi says:

(laughing my socks off for the \”

Ashkuff says:

Maybe I missed something. These look \”wussy\”

Mimi says:

Let\’s agree to disagree you sweet on the musketeers and I am sweet on the samurai.

With me any argument involving the firearm is met with automatic disdain and prejudice. I know that calling myself an Anthropologist and attaching that statement to me is counter productive. To err is human.

Moving along. I have totally immersed myself immersed myself into gaining as much knowledge about social networking as I can. My reading list includes but is not limited to the following.

juliettepowell.com/

33 Million People in the Room \”

Mimi says:

Hey that rhymed. Just call me rhymenocerous. I had a twitter account which is inactive. I really can\’t squeeze updating and reading tweets in my busy schedule. I have been banned from walking into my Mum\’s house holding my phone. Dad has threatened to hose me down, phone and all. (laughs out Loud)

Ashkuff says:

\”33 Million People in the Room\”

Ashkuff says:

Also, I apologize if I made you uncomfortable with my talk about firearms.

Mimi says:

Don\’t apologise. I never feel uncomfortable with any topic. I pride myself on that.
Just one of the reasons why I love Anthro so much. It always breaks the ice. Know What I mean, Master.

Please do read \’33 million people in a room,\’ it\’s right up your alley. Then we can hash it out in this room. That\’s what this blog has become

I totally agree with this declaration, \”

Ashkuff says:

You never feel uncomfortable with any topic? That must be a nice feeling. In America, we get uncomfortable with all sorts of stuff, and HIDE THAT FACT BY GETTING REALLY LOUD ABOUT IT. SEE HOW THIS WORKS?! HOW COULD I POSSIBLY BE UNCOMFORTABLE WITH SOMETHING, IF I\’M WILLING TO BE THIS LOUD ABOUT IT?! I AM SO. DAMN. OPEN. MINDED.
(Laughs Out Loud)

I\’ll order \”33 Million\”

Mimi says:

One day the resolve finds you. It\’s when you least expect it. In fact you have to stop fighting, let the \”

Mimi says:

My keyboard is missing the \”

Ashkuff says:

Let the ugly feelings in, huh? Yeah, I suppose I\’ve done that a few time. Problem for me is that I\’m overly introspective and risk disappearing into my own feelings if I\’m not careful. Terribly unpleasant experience, if those feelings are ugly. I know it doesn\’t help much, but I\’m sorry to hear about your parent. I\”

Mimi says:

If you live in the past, it is actually part of your present. Wrap your head around that and you become the master of your day. Letting ugly feelings in is one thing and sometimes happens when you neither want or need it. Something usually triggers the awful memory, you have no control there. Learning how to manage the torrent of ugly emotions/memories is a well learned and hard to come by skill. There you find control.
My therapy is free. Tomorrow I charge.

You are a Scorpio so by design your emotons are heightened and on a another level. I dabble in Astrology, one of my favourite authors is Linda Goodman. She is timeless and unique. She is the mould. Most people think Astrology is nonsense, I use to do to. Until I came across this line in one of her books. \”Say you having a very important meeting, would it not benefit you and your cause if you knew that the other party was either a fast-talking New Yorker use to the hustle and bustle of a crowded city, or a slower talking Texan with different traits and likes.\”

Ashkuff says:

When it comes to reminders of awful memories, I have a terrible habit of trashing whatever reminded me. Then I go brood for a while, and throw myself at the gym, or schoolwork, or a professional project until I forget again. Not the most efficient coping mechanism, I guess, but it\’s productive.

I haven\’t seen much genuinely scientific research on the effectiveness of astrology, so I\’m personally undecided about it. From an anthropological perspective, I acknowledge that entire cultures seem to think it works, so in those contexts, I\’m willing to lend it some credence.

I don\’t think letting one\’s guard down is a sign of weakness. EVERYBODY ELSE treats letting your guard down is a sign of weakness, so I just play their game. Yes, I often feel misunderstood, but then again, I think lots of non-scorpios also feel that way. Otherwise, you pretty much hit the target.

Mimi says:

Thrashing and brooding is estrogen inspired. If that\’s how you deal then that\’s how you deal. However calling it productive is somewhat dillusional. \”

Ashkuff says:

The thrashing part isn\’t productive, it\’s the subsequent distracting-myself-from-my-woes-by-throwing-myself-at-productive-stuff. And I\’d be interested in bringing in a biological anthropologist, before concluding that thrashing and brooding are estrogen inspired. Heh. Seriously. It might be a cultural thing. In the US, brooding is a trait assigned to the most masculine of our movie heroes. Like Batman. Batman broods his ass off.

(cautiously accepts cyberhug)

Oh God, I CANNOT EAT WHEN I\’M STRESSED.
I don\’t know why, but I just can\’t swallow a bite until I\’ve resolved the issue, or have at least developed a clear attack strategy for later. Really, I can\’t sleep, either. Or\”

Mimi says:

I am taking back my cyber-hug and giving it to my other cyber-mentor. Who accepts a hug cautiously? Only you Ashkuff, only you. No time for feelings I see. *noted*

Most importantly a standing ovation goes to your article. It highlited how, \”Anthropologists communicate via thick description and comprehensive ethnographies, based on extended field research.\”

Mimi says:

Oh one last thing. Could you please elaborate what you are feeling, thinking, trying to point out when you use, \”Heh.\”

Ashkuff says:

Has nothing to do with lacking time for feelings. I\’m an emotional type, in fact. I hesitate to give hugs because I\’m averse to giving up underhooks, moving within hook range without keeping my hands by my chin, getting close enough to get stabbed, and getting close enough to get pickpocketed. (Laughs Out Loud)

Well, I cannot express how flattered I am by yours and your friends\’ critiques of my article. Tell them I thank them for finding the energy to read my stuff. And thank you, in particular, for passing it on.

For the record, I\’m currently talking with the AAA\’s Chief Marketing Director, whom I met at the Montreal conference, and she\’s considering letting me do some social media work for them. As your kinda-sorta-mentor, I\’d like to point this out as an illustration of the importance of networking. This new relationship is already turning into one of the more productive contacts I\’ve made this season.

I have mixed emotions about Bat Man. As my girlfriend puts it \”Bat Man himself is boring, he just has really interesting villains to fight.\”

Mimi says:

(laughs out loud) At Ashkuff\”

Ashkuff says:

\”Show off much\”

mimi says:

Long overdue, this reply. Sorry.
I have been \”

Ashkuff says:

Mimi,

The book you just read on social networking, was it \”33 Million?\”

Mimi says:

I missed your reply (feather brain moment) I was looking at the bottom (slaps forehead}
silly me.

The book I read, I am now \”

Ashkuff says:

So, I finally finished reading Powell\’s \”33 Million People in a Room.\”

Mimi says:

\”Interesting at points, but lacklustre.\”

Ashkuff says:

When it comes to social networking books, I\’m at a loss. What I know about social networking, I taught myself. Of course, I\’ll always suggest \”Business Plans That Work\”

Mimi says:

Al,

I just started readng Anthropology and Journalism, apparently it\’s the first book on that topic. I\’ll see how it fares. I have a real problem watching the news or following a tv news station, most journalists are paid to talk and If I don\’t know who\’s paying you, then I don\’t know who\’s talking. I\’m hoping that by aligning or collaborating anthropolgy with it (Journalism) then I might have a dfferent view.

Also trying to get a handle on business Anthropology. Truth be told I\’m not partial to anything related to business. I work in a corporate world and business will always just be business even if you attach Anthropolgy to it. The CEO\’s make sure of that.
As far as know it use to be called, \”industrial anthropology\”

Ashkuff says:

I, personally, am always very wary of the mainstream media. Not because I think there\’s any conspiracy, or any thing. Just because I think most of them are don\’t know what they\’re talking about, especially when dealing with global issues. They make such a big deal over staying \”objective, fair and balanced,\”

Mad as Hell says:

You just called me a flirt on your blog \”

Ashkuff says:

Okay. You\’re not a flirt. (shrugs to self)
Remember, I\’m an anthropologist, not a psychologist.
I analyze large groups.

Speaking of you doing a book review on m\’blog. I\’m retooling my marketing plan, and interested in article swapping. Lemme know if you\’re interested in writing a guest spot, and pointing all your friends toward it. (restrains a chuckle)

\”at the end of the day a business is there to make money aka profits and when the \”

Mimi says:

HAHA (laughing and can\’t stop)
I have a few friends. (smiles knowingly) In fact I have a friend who has loads of friends I can borrow. I\’ve been busy. *dreamy look*

\”Screw over enough people, for long enough, and you\’ll lose money. Count on it. That\’s an important application for business anthropology, trying to figure out what practices will and will not make customers feel screwed.\”

Ashkuff says:

Sorry I fell off the radar, Mimi.
I\’ve been super-crazy-busy.
Yet, I think you already know what that\’s like.

Glad to hear you\’re on board with business anthro!

As for guest writing\”

Impressed with Al says:

Totally cool! Thank goodness I was in my study when I logged onto this page, I let out a very girly shriek and I have the \”goofiest\”

Ashkuff says:

Damn, this pains me. I had to put the comment thread back the way it was, because the new way malformatted a bunch of other comment threads throughout the blog. Sorry.

That said, I do think the FAQ page is turning messy.
I\’ll be looking into solutions.

Still Impressed with Al says:

#Formal complaint# I hate you Blackberry and SA internet service I do believe you are lovers, who conspiracise (this is a word) against people like me. I have been trying to post a reply to this site for days! I have been disconnected and freeze franed countless times and the other day you said something silly like \”JAVA script disabled\”

Still Impressed with Al says:

Dear Al,

That\’s okay. I am pretty sure that you\’ll fix it as soon as you can. At least you agree that it\’s becoming messy, one point Mimi. (Just kidding)

I got asked to join a newsletter the other day and I am gunning for Editor so hold thumbs. Of course I feel way over my head but hey when has that ever stopped me. I am going to request some more of your time and maybe later demand some more of your time. \”Important\”

Ashkuff says:

Nay. I don\’t believe it\’s the fault of BlackBerry nor your service carrier. I never optimized my website for mobile viewing. So it\’s probably my fault. Yet another thing on my to-do list!

Indeed, it\’s getting messy.
One point, Mimi.
(not kidding)

That. Sounds. AWESOME. I\’d love to help you with your newsletter, in any way that I can. Just lemme know. Hell, if I do halfway decent by you, I might ask for a letter of recommendation. (Laughs Out Loud)

Mimi says:

I am just dropping by to say hi..I’ve been on vacation with a tall, dark and handsome man.
I have resurfaced into the land of the living and notice that we have company on the FAQ page..Haha

I am reminding you that you are still officially my cyber-menor, don’t forget that. All the steps I’ve taken so far has been the direct influence of your advice and insight. I have an opportunity to do some field work and I am torn between being a mom, studying and well, life.
Decisions..decisions…Well I suppose that’s why you’re here to guide me to the best solution….

Next week sees me conducting my first anthropological interview, please feel free to highlight “what not to do when conducting an interview.” I am already nervous.

Also, my newsletter is due to be released in the next few days and I will be keeping you posted on what the reception is. I worked really hard putting it together and I am already busy with the next issue.

I absolutely love the work you’ve been doing, Lanfia aka Patrick and I are your undying fans…Thought I would let you know..

Ashkuff says:

Awww, that’s sweet. I hope he’s more than handsome, though. He better treat you and your little one well. (frowns protectively)

Yay, I’m still useful!
Some notes on “ethnographic respondency” (fancy talk for an interview):
(1) Have clearly defined research goals. Exactly, what are you trying to figure out, and how will that be useful? Of course, you also need to remain open to wherever the conversation goes. It’s just smart to have a damn goal.
(2) It’s easy to allow your own presuppositions to bias your questions. So don’t ask leading questions like “why are all Germans homosexual?” (Laughs Out Loud) Stick with something more like “so, tell me about German sexual orientation.”
(3) If the respondent says something you disagree with, don’t argue with them. You job is to document their beliefs, not to change them.
(4) That said, if they something that CONFUSES you, there’s no harm in saying something like “tell me more about that.”
(5) It’s best if you ask open-ended questions. Something to the effect of “Tell me about your feelings on…” Unless you’re conducting a statistical survey (that’s a whole other can of worms) avoid yes/no questions like “Do you agree with the statement…”
(6) Try to record everything. That’ll help you remember and maintain “context” if someone asks you about the interview later. Of course, be sure to get consent to record, AND RECORD THEIR GIVING CONSENT. Where I’m from, a simple “you’re being recorded right now, for an anthropological article I’m writing for Amazon.com, is that okay?” is good enough.
(7) Lastly, REMEMBER THAT THE CHARACTERISTICS OF A POPULATION DO NOT ALWAYS REFLECT THE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE INDIVIDUAL. Interviewing ONE person might give you a useful “insight” into his population, but that’s far from definitive.

Also, remember that first-time postings tend to yield disappointing turnouts. If you get any good feedback at all, even a single comment or pat on the back, try to remember that that’s a GREAT first step! Of course, I’ll bet that you might skip the baby steps and go straight to massive fanfare. Remember me, after you get promoted to Amazon CEO.

Pretty much makes my day, to have such awesome fans. Did you see that one video blog I did? “How to use a taser.” Gave you a shout out. (Laughs Out Loud)

Glad to hear you again.
Best luck.

Mimi says:

I did see your “shout-out” Thank you that made my day. I have decided not to use my taser as a self defense umm item lol…It’s just not going to work if I have to look for a spot to tase someone on… (Laughs)

I PUT A LOT OF THOUGHT INTO THESE POSTS, AND I SURE LOVE GETTING COMMENTS. EVEN SHORT, STUPID COMMENTS. SO BE AWESOME AND SAY SOMETHING. NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED, YAY FREE SPEECH!