Besides, the Dustin factor, I think a major factor is that all the writers respect each other and we each see the world differently. The intersection of those viewpoints makes the conversation that unfolds more interesting than it would be if we were just blogging by ourselves.

I think the commentors are the real secret ingredient. It’s much easier to blog, when you know you have an active audience reading you!

To a large extent, the Leader, in my case Dustin Luther, is key to the success of the blog. Dustin’s vantage point is more of a techie consumer (or was when RCG started) than an industry insider. That has contributed to the success of both Rain City Guide and its participants.

Dustin enters every day with an open mind, gives the writers pretty much free reign to experiment and grow, and treats commenters like guests to a party. Regardless of the mulitple participants and their talents, the Leader of the site’s role, is key to its success.

There is no Rain City Guide without Dustin Luther, whether he writes or not.