"Arianna Huffington should grow a beard."
Ewan Spence, the Scotsman behind "Is Scoble in This Room?" took a stroll down Red River Street with us today (proudly sporting both goatee and kilt) in sunny Austin to discuss what he's seen thus far in regards to beards, 'staches, or creative displays of facial hair. Ewan first grew a full beard back in May 2004, but decided - roughly before a Palm developer conference - that it was best to shave it down into a goatee prior to entering through Customs.
This SXSWi veteran (who lives in Edinburgh, Scotland - and you know how we adore the Scots) believes 2011's facial hair scene is bigger than in year's past. Just like Trammel, Ewan noted that this year he's seeing attendees "really letting go" - noting that perhaps the economy is keeping men from shaving every day. "It's tough times. Perhaps men are economizing by not purchasing razors as often."
Ewan continued, "As for the beard scene really taking off, I blame San Francisco and Brian Wilson's beard. The 'Fear the Beard' message really caught on - people started believing in the power of facial hair." He doesn't see the message of "fearing" facial hair off-putting. He noted that Wilson's beard sends a message to fans that he means business and to the opposition, it is an intimidating factor.
When asked what tech personality, reporter, blogger, or podcaster would most benefit from growing a beard, Ewan responded immediately --- "Ariana Huffington should grow a beard... the 'Fear the Beard' message could really be applied to her."
Ewan Spence - in all his goatee glory.
Photo credit: @kristinaweise for @buildabeard