If you want to stay abreast of industry events and issues, I find that I get most of my information from the Free Speech X-press that comes out every Friday in my email.
I was at the X-biz LA and the retreat's participants seemed quite satisfied with the event. I'd suggest you try and attend the next one. If you are worried about companies ripping off your technologies, don't offer up the methods for discussion. Even if you learn one thing, it may be worth more than the trip's costs.
Just a suggestion.
|