Featured Speaker: Kevin A. Barnes

“I am the Director of Web Development at Orion Group, a WordPress development and digital marketing agency located in Wisconsin. I also serve as webmaster for Ex Fabula, a nonprofit storytelling organization. My hands-on experience with WordPress began in 2005, when I migrated my personal site to WordPress. In my spare time, I write, develop grassroots ARGs (Alternate Reality Games) and try to solve Fermi’s paradox.”

Presentation: Let Me Tell You A Story: WordPress As A Storytelling Tool

“Storytelling is a basic part of being human. The ability to use WordPress as a storytelling tool has grown and evolved recently, so I want to share some of the knowledge and resources from what’s emerging.”

What unique perspective are you bringing to this talk?

“I’ve been a storyteller my entire life (my first short story was published in 1983), as well as someone who enjoys pushing the limits of WordPress content delivery. I’m passionate about exploring new ways to tell stories, both online and across multiple media.”

What’s one really cool thing people will discover during your session?

“Powerful tools already exist that enable you use WordPress as an effective storytelling platform. From the Aesop Story Engine plugin to themes specifically designed for long-form storytelling and journalism, learn how you can more easily engage your users while conveying your content.”

What are you most looking forward to at WordCamp Toronto?

“I look forward to meeting — and learning from — other members of the WordPress community. Plus after several visits to Canada over the years, I think it’s finally time for me find out why some people are as passionate about Tim Hortons as WordCamp attendees are about WordPress.”