I think this is relatively new, this getting to know people virtually. Because we listen to the Podcast from home, from work, in our cars, or walking around, we hear the voices. We listen to roundtable, and get to know the people talking a little more. The Podcast team aren't actors, they are real people sharing their lives with us. So we listen... and we come to care.
This has happened here on the DIS with threads about people going through rough times and terminal illnesses. I've cried tears for people I've only met through written text. However, when you put yourself out there, sharing your life ---- well, people care.
I think it is probably even more with the Podcast. It's not just words on the screen, but their voices and personalities come through ... and we hear how they care for each other ... well, I think it's natural that people who listen, especially on a weekly basis, will also feel connected to the Podcast team. They may be speaking to each other, but they are really speaking to the listeners -- and that is all of us.
Bob, has been such an integral part of the team, and with his personality I think helped bond this board even more to the Podcast team. This group has something special.
At first, I just listened to the Podcast, but then I started wondering stuff like, who is this Anthony they keep shouting out to? And these emails? Who is writing them? Because of the Podcast I started lurking on this board, and have enjoyed watching all of you become friends.
It's only natural to really feel the loss of our Bawb, and though other people may not get it (yet), the important thing is we all do.