Topic: Neil Awards

John C. Dvorak and Adam Curry critique the podcasting and digital media award industry, specifically the Webbys and the Podcast Awards. Dvorak argues that many awards are "profit centers" where winners are self-selected by paying entry fees ranging from $100 to $500. They discuss the history of Tiffany Schlein and the Webbys, concluding that mainstream media awards rarely recognize independent digital creators.

The 65th Primetime Emmy Awards featured a viewership of 30 million, a significant drop from previous global claims. Controversy arose when the Fox network used a tribute to the late Corey Monteith to immediately transition into a commercial for the season premiere of Glee. Critics argue the network exploited the actor's death for promotional purposes.

The 61st Primetime Emmy Awards are analyzed, with praise for host Neil Patrick Harris's old-fashioned master of ceremonies style. The segment critiques Jeff Probst's acceptance speech for Survivor, specifically his misattribution of a motivational quote to anthropologist Joseph Campbell. Ratings data from Variety is discussed, noting that viewership declined as critically acclaimed but low-rated shows like 30 Rock won major awards.