I do go to (U.S. based) shows. However, I am becoming more choosy which I go to.
If you go to the shows, you will start to realize just how different "the industry" is. Especially versus the perception on the boards. If you think the boards are a fair representation of what is going on, and what the BROS are into. You'd be mistaken.
The tone of the shows will give you new insight on just how divided the monoliths are from what you perceive on the boards as equals in this business. The BRO agenda is not always the same as public perception.
For me, the shows help you stay ahead of the curve and see what is coming down the pipe, and what others are working on. More importantly, you will have people telling you the TRUTH about if they are up or down, versus on the board where everyone is still pimpin' unaffected.
