Updated Dec. 4, 2024 Recently, there has been a notable shift of people moving to BlueSky, including many community managers and professionals seeking a fresh space for connection and collaboration. This platform offers a unique opportunity to engage with others in…
Community Manager Live©
Community Manager Live is currently on hiatus. If you enjoy authentic, reflective discussions about community building, please check out the blog below for insights and practical tips on community management.

PLATO: The Birth of Online Community in Education
What is PLATO? PLATO, which stands for Programmed Logic for Automatic Teaching Operations, made its debut in 1960 at the University of Illinois. While it was initially designed to facilitate computer-assisted learning, PLATO quickly evolved into a vibrant online…
Community Building: A Marathon, Not a Sprint
Community building. It’s an exciting journey, but one that requires patience and perseverance. Think of it not as a sprint, where instant results are the goal, but as a marathon that demands endurance and strategic pacing. Let’s explore why this mindset is…
Introducing Community Pros
I’m excited to introduce Community Pros, a groundbreaking platform I’ve founded, aimed at connecting individuals and organizations with verified community and social media experts. Today, fostering authentic relationships is more important than ever, and…
Minimum Viable Guide to Launching a Community
Please note that this is a very simplified outline, but it can lead to a successful community. For a far more in depth guide please check out The Ultimate Checklist for Launching a Community. First and foremost…. Don’t start a community without some type of…
A Guide for New Reddit Moderators
Whether you’ve created a new subreddit or joined an existing mod team, this role comes with exciting opportunities and responsibilities. This guide will walk you through essential tips and best practices to help you succeed as a Reddit moderator. 1. Use Desktop…
Your Host
Meet David DeWald
David DeWald is a pioneering online community professional with over 25 years of experience building, managing, and evolving digital communities of all sizes—some reaching millions of members. Since the late 1990s, he has partnered with diverse organizations and businesses to establish impactful online presences that foster engagement and growth. David is widely respected among his peers for his deep expertise in community strategy, engagement, moderation, and advocacy development. Beyond managing communities, he actively contributes to the industry through thought leadership, including public speaking, and blogging, sharing actionable insights to elevate the practice of community management globally.







