There is an article accompanied by 3 podcasts on 5 Minutes for Mom. This is an interview with Jon Gosselin. The 3 podcasts containing the interview are at the end of the article.
lol..my hubby and I just finished listening to them before I saw this discussion topic. They are good recordings expecially the second one. You go Jon!
Podcast #3 - am I misinterpreting or was there a major contradiction in there? I thought Jon said they were ONLY getting one large family gift (the laptop) this year (sounded to me like he was saying - as opposed to getting individual gifts). Then later he said he bought things online from the kids' Christmas lists. What?
Based on a few different articles I've read when it come to the G's this year and xmas, I was under the impression that they were getting one large family gift, the computer, as well as the stuff they put on layaway and whatnot.
I am interested in Jon these days. After the last Soup clip (sooo funny), I have been wondering how he handles being demeaned in front the tv world. It would take a strong man not to be bothered by some of it. He is definitely the man behind the woman and Kate does most of the talking. I always want to hear him speak more to hear his take.
He talked specifically about filming days and retakes. It sounds like the kids have lots of days where the cameras aren't around and I believe him.
As for any discrepancies or thought on the one big family gift but buying more presents online, Kate shopping at Kmart and clipping coupons, etc. these interviews are obviously paid endorsements and I would view them as I would any commercial.
I did catch when Jon said “buy presents online” because it sounded like he had just said something different than his first statement. In this case I think they're saying they put the majority of the $s into a family computer. The thing is they prob got one for free as well as whatever $s they make. It's a promotion. It's kind of a sneaky and old timey way to do it. But, what I am wondering is aren't you supposed to be told when you're watching a commercial or reading an ad? In a way it's almost subliminal advertising. I have only seen a few LPBW, do they do the same type of sponsor shots of products or do the promote anything personally?
Yeah Theresa I agree. Jon does seem down to earth. I always liked him. I think he's funny and he always cracks me up when he gives Kate those "looks." lol
This is a great link! Thanks :). As far as the family gift vs little gifts, there is no discrepancy. My parents always do a big gift (like a copier/printer/scanner for my bro and sis in law) but also get a few little stocking stuffers (comfy socks, a dorky tie, and candy or treats). In our family, at times we get "one big gift" but we don't actually only open one present. Its just that 95% of the Christmas budget for that person goes to one thing. So yeah-- I didn't see that as a problem at all, just because my family is the same way!
I wouldn't call it a contradiction if you look at it like Kate bought her gifts at Kmart with Layaway because she just maybe likes this idea. Jon bought his gifts online. My hubby and I don't buy our gifts at the same place and he buys presents and I buy presents. I don't think they are trying to pull something over to fool the public.
I agree with Merryway that the 3rd podcast was essentially a commercial for Microsoft computers (come on--the list of features! Who IRL talks like that?!) and the website that pays you back to shop on-line.
In my family growing up, we all received smaller gifts (e.g. socks, pj's, etc.) and then we got a large gift from "Santa." I interpreted Jon's comment as the whole family would share a large gift--the laptop--instead of receiving individual large gifts. Of course, if the glowing mention of Microsoft was a commercial, then I suspect the laptop won't be purchased by J&K, but given to the family, but that's just speculation.
Love the interview! He was very relaxed and down to earth!
Great idea about doing interviews on the show separately once in awhile!
I don't see the big deal with what he said about the Xmas presents. I would agree with Lizabeth and assume that the Gosselins will be getting 1 large family presents and then perhaps smaller presents for each child. I know that on the Giving Back episode Kate told Alexis that she could put the Elmo doll on her Christmas list. Honestly though, what is the big deal? That bit was obviously an endorsement for Microsoft. It had nothing to do with him being dishonest!
Kate went to KMART months ahead of time and put things on Layaway?
I don't mean to be rude, but that really is so farfetched....come on.
Jon and Kate are great advertisers. I think bringing back Layaway was a brilliant marketing move for Kate, and for 90% or more of her viewers, they may very well think she uses it.
It reminds me of the old stars who said their family always used ______ or gave ________, etc. When of course, they were spokespeople under contract to promote a product. I can't think of any at the moment, Lucy and Desi with Phillip Morris cigs is the only thing I can think of but that's not a good example. It was always pretty clear that it was an endorsement.
Re: Product placement I was curious about this, because I know they use the product placement in movies. I did some quick search on Ozzie & Harriet sponsors, the orig tv family (family in real life, characters with the same name on tv). It's not any great revelation in regards to J&K, but I thought it was an interesting bit of tv history.
Speaking of the house at 522 Sycamore Road, Hilldale, the set was an exact replica of their real life home in Hollywood.
If you remember all those scenes in the kitchen, that's because up until 1956, Hotpoint, the sponsor, was displaying their products! After that, you probably recall more outdoors scenes. Did you notice the cameras around everyone's necks? Yup, Kodak became the sole sponsor.
Fiona, I don't think it's farfetched Kate uses layaway. Are you too good to use Layaway Fiona? Do you not try to save money where you can? So why is it hard to think Jon and Kate doesn't save where they can. That is not thinking farfetched!
Fiona-- If the Microsoft endorsement deal is anything like the endorsement deals we do at our station, yes, his payment is indeed the new family computer. (or maybe even part of his payment is this computer).
FIONA said... That was a great interview with Jon! I really wish we could here him speak more without Kate by his side.
Amen, Fiona. My favorite Gosselin changes, but Jon is it right now. I've noticed he seems more comfortable (or something) recently, maybe just more mature, and he really plays well with the kids. He reminds me of my little brother, a great dad. And he's funny.
Theresa said... Fiona-- If the Microsoft endorsement deal is anything like the endorsement deals we do at our station, yes, his payment is indeed the new family computer. (or maybe even part of his payment is this computer).
December 18, 2008 12:18 PM ---
Well sure...I believe that completely. I just wish he wouldn't say they are "going to buy" when it most likely was gratis.
I would much rather him say Microsoft offered our family a new laptop this year...
They are spokespeople advertising...just call it like it is. And I bet they are in high demand. I think most people are tickled to see Jon or Kate on TV, on a magazine, etc....
I don't think it's too far-fetched that Kate uses layaway. And, I believe she is the perfect person to endorse it. Mom of 8 kids, popular, etc.
Remember, just becuase they can afford stuff now (or not have to do without now) doesn't mean you have to buy the brand name or not use coupons, etc. I always gathered that Kate is a thrifty person. She even said on the show where she went shopping, that she uses coupons and I still believe that to be true. The kids are getting older, eating more, outgrowing clothes. She said it herself...her job is to make sure that they save money. (or something to that effect on that show, since she stayed home with the kids). (I have well off friend who uses coupons all the time).
Endorsement deals are a perfect way to provide for your family. Or, to receive a service that otherwise would be impossible. I work at a radio station and have had laser eye surgery. I could not have done it without the endorsement deal. My on air partner has furnished his house with an endorsement deal from a local furniture store. Another disc jockey has not had to drive her own car in the last 6 months because she's riding around in an endorsement deal car. There's no difference with our plugging of these clients, then that of J&K with Microsoft and K-mart.
I am very thankful for my eye surgery. Jon had his hairplugs and Kate her tummy tuck and I certainly can understand when they say they are thankful and could not have had these services otherwise. These are huge operations that may or may not be covered by insurance. If not, it is way too expensive. And, I don't know of anybody who would turn it down.
Let me just say though, with an endorsement deal, there is a lot of work involved. Mine was most likely different than J&K's because I'm just on a radio station. I had to write and produce 3 live spots daily that all ran in our show. And, they all had to be different scripts.
So, even though they don't have to maybe write and do live spots like I did...I guarnatee the sponsor (o Tales of Desperaux) the other night WANTED Kate to read the story to the kids (with stuffed animals provided by the company).T That was most likely a part of the contract/agreement with TLC.
Sorry for the ramble, but I have been seeing so many "they get so many freebies" and people bitching about it, when in reality, they really do have to work for it.(Example: Kate's pr tour for KMart and P&G brands.) That's extensive traveling.
And, the clothes and brands of the sponsors of the show, that comes with the territory and you'd bet I certainly would be outfitting my kids in Gymboree and Gap. I wouldn't want to lose any kind of endorser. Not good for business.
I loved the interview- he's so laid back, it's nice to hear more from him. I really enjoyed the "if you hate us you don't have to watch" point. Novel Idea.
amyf said... Podcast #3 - am I misinterpreting or was there a major contradiction in there?
Combine that with the St. Judes episode amyf and it is confusing. We go from no gifts (giving back) kinda hard for kids that age to go without presents, so I dismissed that from the beginning, that and the Elmo purchase told me different. Wait we have stuff in layaway, maybe thats it! Big Kmart plug. wink, wink
I'm gonna say this in a snarky way if I can. This show has to have set records for product endorsements in a single season, maybe even an episode. LOLIs there an Emmy for that?
Then we go to one big gift. A Microsoft computer (of which Jon is now a spokesperson) hint, hint. Then he mentioned gifts being purchased online, how do you do that? By means of a technology device: you guessed it, a computer. He even details its internal components using computer jargon and in a bit of wit uses the term firewall, to describe himself in another cast, because every great computer needs a great firewall. hint, hint again, Norton anti-virus next stop?
Now if that isn't enough contradiction, since this is a Q & A podcast right?, btw that means question and answer, ha ha actually it's a Microsoft commercial but forget that for now, we have what follows.
Jon describes the filming days and negative comments directed at their show, J&K plus 8. Contrary to what they have previously said about the filming days, being 3-4 that is a misnomer Jons' words: one of those days being on the couch, it's now as little as one day of ACTUAL filming. 3 days are scheduled and he would kick the camera crew to the curb if they were there 24/7 almost quoting him word for word. Now how does a viewer with the Hawaii episodes still fresh in mind buy one bit of that. A show that spanned nearly three weeks, encompassed two seperate episodes had as little as 3 days of filming, and where was this film crew, during the three weeks? He goes on to say 1 day filming, 1 day for the interview, 1 day for PR, "like today". Not to mention they don't have a bathroom camera, well I never thought that, or a shower cam either but we have had a camera man following them in there and potty scenes as well. But kudos to Jon that has stopped and sir I applaud you for that.
Now I believe filming time has begun to lessen, and delicate moments being filmed have dwindled as well. The last three episodes could have been filmed in one day or two maximum. The yard sale took 1 day, St. Judes 2 days filming, 2 days traveling (not shown)it appears.
See this is where Jon could have put alot of negative comments and nay-sayers like myself to rest, but, he did not. Furthermore in my opinion this is where the J&K PR train begins to derail and fast. If he would have said we use to film more, 3-4 days and we decided, after some consideration and comments from viewers to reduce that time, he would have had my vote. I personally think with the tups in school and on the advise PR team, filming time has been reduced. Not to mention Kate has been frequenting NY on a regular basis, so they have other "irons" in the fire. But he has to lets us know what we heard earlier was a misnomer, even though what we heard came from them!! They addressed this in a FAQ episode I think, but somehow this never came across to the viewers properly, wha??
He then proceeds to let us know he doesn't read hate mail. Now, I have never sent any but this again leads to more contradiction as many say the mailbox is always full and emails get returned and how does he know it's hate mail, unless he reads it first. Or maybe its email subject line is titled HATE MAIL?
Yeah my head is spinning now too, but I'm almost done.
Finally in a comment right out of a blog site he tells us if you don't like our show don't watch. The lady doing the interview says the same about her blog site, no worries there from me though. never heard of it before today. Be careful with that one though Jon, remember Proverbs 16:18.
He also includes a comment about never feeling so strongly about things as to have an opinion about them. IMO a shot directed at blog sites that comment about them. Contradiction again, if thats the case where did all his comments come from he had the moderators of the Triplet Connection delete? Oh well who knows?
Kristi sorry so long, I hope that Saints html advise made reading easier. TY again Saint. Linda please do me a favor, if you want to debate my comments have at it, I only ask you respect me enough to refrain from making comments about me personally. BTW my agenda here is the same as everyone else; to discuss the show, or topics. Nothing more.
The comments section after the podcast started out nice but started to get negative quick. There was a nasty poem by "florida". I might have to change my screen name to the artist formerly know as Florida Mom :).
I like Jon. He seems like a very hands on dad, and the kids seem to have such a good time with him. I like that he tries to get Kate to focus on the fun of playing with the kids and not the work all the time.
nc resident said... I'm gonna say this in a snarky way if I can. This show has to have set records for product endorsements in a single season, maybe even an episode. LOLIs there an Emmy for that?
Actually, I just read this article...
Yesterday, Nielsen released their list of the broadcast TV shows with the most product placement, and The Biggest Loser is number one with 6,248 placements this year. (More appallingly, Nielsen’s data is only from Jan. 1 to Nov. 30—meaning that there are many more product placements not counted.) That’s more than 1,600 more than the number two show, American Idol, which had 4,646 placements during its seventh season.
Overall, all of the reality shows in the top 10 except two are on Fox or NBC (only one scripted show made the top 10). The Biggest Loser: 6,248 American Idol 7: 4,636 Extreme Makeover: Home Edition: 3,371 America’s Toughest Jobs: 2,807 One Tree Hill, 2,575 Deal or No Deal: 2,292 America’s Next Top Model: 2,241 Last Comic Standing: 1,993 Kitchen Nightmares: 1,853 Hell’s Kitchen: 1,807
Only one of those shows, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, made Nielsen’s list of the “Top 10 Most Effective Product Placements on Brand Opinion.” CVS’ appearance on the ABC show was number one, and Sears, which provides happiness to destitute families through appliances, was fifth.
But every single other show in the top 10 was on Bravo, like #2 TRESemme and #4 Bluefly.com on Project Runway, and #6 Glad, #7 Whole Foods, and #8 Food & Wine Magazine on Top Chef. Number three was El Pollo Loco on Flipping Out.
I wasn't paying super close attention as I listened to these podcasts, but when they discuss that the film crew is there for three days, was he implying that they film in their home for three days, or three days overall, no matter the location? Of course they aren't filming three days in their home, because the recent episodes haven't been filmed in their home.
I've been wondering for some time if all these trips away aren't for a purpose. For example, as they were moving, did the show schedule many trips so that the Gosselins aren't at home while the packing/moving process is taking place? I've also wondered if they don't purposely film away from home so that their home/schedule/routine isn't so overly analyzed. People can't nitpick what is in your house and your daily routine if you aren't there. Also, if I were in their shoes, I'd much rather film outside of the home so that when I return, home is just that - home, not work. I'd much rather be able to come home to just my privacy and my family. Perhaps that is part of the reason so many episodes have been trips lately. Just a thought.
(Off topic here, but when I came to this website, I immediately scrolled down and didn't see the snow falling from the top of the page. For a moment, I thought I was losing my mind - or my eyesight! What were those little white things I saw on the screen? Sometimes I think I'm more of an airhead than I'd like to admit.)
Theresa said: She said it herself...her job is to make sure that they save money. (or something to that effect on that show, since she stayed home with the kids).
Theresa you are exactly right, but the irony of that statement was she included that with the comment since Jon went to work she felt it was her job ie what you stated.
This is where maybe I split hairs but I firmly believe they get themselves caught in half-truths. At the time she said that Jon wasn't working and it was just after the Paul Peterson comments were addressed by TLC. Those being about the show affording Kate the luxury of being able to stay at home. I firmly believe that J&K mix some truth in with some well white lies (being polite) and it makes their whole story unbelievable. I think they come across this way and have for a long time and some people see through that.
Hey Theresa. Just wanted to thank you for giving us a bit more information on endorsement deals. I agree there is *work* involved.
Rufus, is there any chance you have a link to the article you referenced? My head is still spinning as to the number of product placements that occur. I think we could easily do a whole feature on this. There are some folks who will only believe what they want to believe (i.e. product placement ONLY occurs on J&K or is only evil when it's done on J&K), but I think the rest of us would like to discuss this in more detail and learn a bit more about it.
I would believe that Kate used Layaway if they have done it from the beginning of the show. Instead, when they really had no money, we saw Kate and Jon at Toys r Us which I believe does NOT offer layaway service (and apparently no endorsement deal so I guess its goodbye TRU and hello Kmart.)
Examples people are giving of product placement are for sitcoms - Jon and Kate are NOT actors but they will tell you what they "really" do if you are the highest bidder. And people believe this is what they "really" do because Kate states "this is our real life." This is why people question everything that comes out of their mouth.
Just saw this oblivious comment on GWoP and thought I would post it here. I am sure our friends at the Princess Boards will have something to say too!
Jen said...If Jon is telling the truth and the older girls really are using Google, I'm very worried for them. Out of curiosity, I just hopped onto google to type in "Mady Gosselin" to see what came up. Google has a function that automatically "guesses" what you're searching and fills in the most common related searches. So what came up?
Mady Gosselin X Mady Gosselin X Mady Gosselin X
My heart breaks for the day she googles herself and finds this stuff. It is disgusting that her parents have even put her in a situation like this. _____________________________ Note, I removed the cruel adjectives that "Jen" felt the need to *repeat* in order to uh, make her point, I guess?
The lack of self-awareness is truly staggering! Raise your hand if you *really* believe Jen's heart breaks.
That was some pretty interesting information! Thanks for posting it. I've missed the El Loco Pollo placements on Flipping out, but Bravo is pretty blatant with their product placements. I will say though IMHO that there is a difference between those shows and K&J's - mainly that Jon and Kate's show is about their family and the things they do, while most of the ones list either contests or 1 family on 1 episode.
If it was one of the regulars on GWOP, I would say no but just a poster...well, she might be serious. I don't want to get into the whole teasing thing again, but if it's true, that's going to be hard to take as a young girl, let alone what happens when "mean kids" at school find out.
I emailed Mom this am and asked her if she wanted to do something. I think she does but we are all short on time. If you would like to write a paragraph explaining what you would like to discuss, I will post it. I haven't really been following all of the topics going on, so I am not the best one to do it. Email it to me at ninabell53@gmail.com
NCresident said... but the irony of that statement was she included that with the comment since Jon went to work she felt it was her job ie what you stated. Yes, that is correct. At the time he went off to a job at an office. That was about two years ago...events and people change. And, people change jobs all the time. But, I think someone with Kate's personality won't give up control and that means she's probably still clipping coupons and watching the budget. It's an inate action of mothers. :)
But he has to lets us know what we heard earlier was a misnomer, even though what we heard came from them!! They addressed this in a FAQ episode I think, but somehow this never came across to the viewers properly, wha??
No, they don't have to let us know anything. Would it have been nice if he said, "in a previous episode we said yada yada ydad, but now our circumstances have changed a bit and now it's like this" Is that what you want them to do?Sure, that would be nice, but he doesn't "have to let us know".
NC, I really do believe a lot on the blogs is assumed as truth and extrapolated as truth because of the editing of the show. And, people are jealous. We only know what we see on a weekly show...one that was edited to fit 25 minutes from 3 days of shooting. There will bound to be contradictions and events and stuff out of context. People need to take that into consideration.
If you believe a lot of what Jon and Kate say are white lies, then so be it. That's your belief.
Geesh, Nina now I am going to have to proofread and double check my spelling - lol. Sure, I'll take a crack at it, but I'm not promising greatness. Give me some time to come up with something.
A while back there was a boy on Oprah who eventually got invovled on online pornos. His mom was involved in internet security for a living but do you know who outed him - a classmate at school who found the video online.
If there was a mom at the kids school who posted on GWOP, I'm sure that would been make clear by now with someone claiming insider information (and you would know it's true because it was accurate.)
There's no difference with our plugging of these clients, then that of J&K with Microsoft and K-mart.
Not to be disagreeable but there is a ton of difference. Your on air they are on TV. People don't see you except for the occasional appearances which I'm sure you make. A good friend of mine had to for WUBE (Cincinnati) country station. You are not required by your employer to dress your children in clothing to display as an advertisement. And even if they did your on air we would not see them. Your house would not be displayed as well.
While I personally don't think pointing out the inconsistencies on the show is being negative, others here obviously do so out of consideration for them I do think it should a separate topic. That way, the people who chose to talk about it can talk freely and those that don't want to has the option of ignoring it. (Really, I'm just tired of anyone who doesn't agree and/or like everything on the show being labeled as negative or a hater.)
On the other hand, if people want to stay here, that means I don't have to write anything :-). So I can go either way.
That was about two years ago...events and people change. Actually Theresa that was said in an interview in NY on a recent talk show. The buzz on some of the boards then three months ago was about Jon not working, which we found out later he wasnt. See where this is going. Kate clips coupons okay she does. Kate shops yep I agree. Was Jon working when she gave that interview it appears he wasn't. But she stated since he worked and she stayed at home that was her job to cut cost and save money.
My quote: some well white lies (being polite)
Your quote:If you believe a lot of what Jon and Kate say are white lies, then so be it
I want you to see how things from post to post get misconstrued. I can almost quarantee that someone will see your post and not even look at my post, and make the assumption I said alot.
NC said Not to be disagreeable but there is a ton of difference. Your on air they are on TV. People don't see you except for the occasional appearances which I'm sure you make. A good friend of mine had to for WUBE (Cincinnati) country station. You are not required by your employer to dress your children in clothing to display as an advertisement. And even if they did your on air we would not see them. Your house would not be displayed as well.
Yes, there's big difference between radio and a popular reality show. My point NC resident was that regardless of radio or tv, when you do an endorsement, the client (advertiser) provides product and/or payment. Theirs is visible. Even though I'm on the radio,when I do an appearance, if Gap were one of my clients, I'd wear it if appropriate for the situation. That's just me, not a requirement...unless, that was in the endorsement deal, then I'd be wearing it.
That was about two years ago...events and people change. Actually Theresa that was said in an interview in NY on a recent talk show. No, actually, that was that same episode where she was shopping. I guess if they said it on a NY talk show then we just found a conistency, right? :) Their story from two years ago matched that of a NY talk show visit just recently. OMG, they told a truth! :)
NC, what is the big issue that you are really after?? You're not trying to make me see how things are misconstrued, I know they are. I'm the one who posted here on this forum (I'm not going back to find where, there's no time) that it is an edited show, of course there's misconstrued thoughts and ideas. That's what happens when people take things literally or avoid the fact that the show is edited.
By the way, I believe 90% of what is on Gwop are assumptions, extrapolations, mean-spirited writings from jealous, insecure people. A detrimental effect of the blogworld...the G kids will google their name and see all the hate directed to their parents and them that is spewed forth on that site alone (yes, there are others I'm sure, but that's the big main offener). Not to mention the twisted ideas and inaccuracies they post. If they are truly for the kids, they'd stop that immature and vile behavior and shut down for the good of the kids.
NC, what is the big issue that you are really after?? I am here only to discuss the show and threads Theresa.
I do completely understand and agree with you on advertising. I also understand that J&K have corporate obligations and possibly cannot choose clothing or drinks to be shown. I however thought the podcast was a Q & A forum with three questions picked from at random. It was at best a commercial for Microsoft and a weak attempt by Jon explaining filming days which I already stated has been explained several times by them before.
You're not trying to make me see how things are misconstrued Actually if you read my entire post I was trying to be polite to you. You have misquoted what I said, by accident I'm sure, and said I used the word alot when in fact I said some.
aap said: Missthang, don't forget all the gifts that viewers will be sending the family for Christmas too.
The question I asked on the other thread is how do people know where to send these gifts? They want to remain under the radar and yet garner enough donations from year to year to need a U-Haul truck to transport those items.
Again I have upset some here and maybe I haven't, I hope.
But I ask everyone to do me one favor. Go check out the Gosselin website. After many of you cryed your eyes out over the St. Jude episode; my wife left the room when she saw Ellen. There is not ONE word mentioned in all of that website about those children or that visit. Not a single picture posted nor a reference or a link or an address to send the St. Judes children cards, letters or gifts. Not a word about us not donating to them but finding another charity to support in their name.
So as unfair as alot of comments about them seems to be their website says much more. It's a great place to buy their book.
Nc resident, On the Gosselin's personal website, the front page shows they are supporting Pediatric Cancer Research. That's been on their page since they updated their site a few months ago.
If you go to the TLC website and click on J&K under the listing of tv shows, there is a link to learn more and donate to St. Judes.
You have pointed out various ways the Gosselins have accumulated material possessions. These are what I can come up with, some you have mentioned, maybe some not:
1. neighbors, friends, church members, and complete strangers interested in the news of sextuplets donating items when they were in need, before their TV success (address available on website if needed.) 2. love offerings at speaking engagements 3. speaking engagement fees 4. $$$ from the sale of items to people attending the speaking engagements (photos of children, photo with Jon or Kate) 5. one-day trips and more expensive vacations, services (i. e. hair transplant), goods (organic beef?) received in payment for a exposure on their show 6. goods received as payment for actual commercial endorsement within the show (V-Tech, Tales of Despereaux) and in interviews outside of the show (new computer) 7. money received from the show and all the sales related to that ($$$ per episode, $$$ for syndication/video sales) 8. money from the book 9. money from outside commercial endorsements that may or may not be on the show (that brown-bag lunch thing, K-Mart, now the Internet thing I think Jon was talking about) 10. Goods and services that are perks the show, but don't seem to be there for commercial exposure: craft services, Jenny, those photos on the dining room walls, maybe the new house and the new gate to the house? 11. Stuff that fans send them 9address on their website, I'm not sure the new address is there?)
Did I get that all right? Can anyone think of anymore?
NC Res, do you have a problem with some of these or all of these?
NC Resident, You wrote, But I ask everyone to do me one favor. Go check out the Gosselin website. After many of you cryed your eyes out over the St. Jude episode; my wife left the room when she saw Ellen. There is not ONE word mentioned in all of that website about those children or that visit. Not a single picture posted nor a reference or a link or an address to send the St. Judes children cards, letters or gifts. Not a word about us not donating to them but finding another charity to support in their name.
I am trying to understand you, not criticize you, so here is how I read this, and please correct me if I am wrong:
If the Gosselins had done what you hoped they would here, the link, the information about St. Jude's, asking people not to donate to them, that would be fabulous.
I think if you and your family were in their position, you would use your fame to help St. Jude's even more by promoting it on your website. You'd feel really uncomfortable receiving gifts from strangers for your own kids, when St. Jude's accepts toys for the children there.
Jon and Kate have been in a position where they were worried about finances. Now that they are no longer in that position, their accumulation of material things and services on their show looks a little greedy and crass?
They should be doing so much more, not just to "give back," but also to "stop taking so much."
I have "guessed" at your feelings and put words in your mouth to try to understand your position. Am I right about any of this or wrong about any of this?
The Millionaire Next Door might be a good read for you.
The presumption that when folks have money, they throw all common sense to the wind and spend money like water is silly.
The large percentage of well off folks tend to continue to watch their pennies so that they will remain well off and not broke.
Their budget line items may be larger, but that doesn't mean that they don't try to keep as much money as they can.
Dave Ramsey is a good read and listen to as well.
Folks carrying Coach purses driveing their leased Lexus'--typically aren't as in the money as they would like you to believe.
Paid endorsement or not, there are laws that prevent a celebrity from lying about using a product. (Fuzzy on the terminology).
Like Sarah Jessica Parker and the hair coloring product. I have no doubt she is using over the counter Garnier for her hair. Of course it is being applied by a very highly paid colorist to make sure she gets her desired color and such. But she indeed is using the OTC product.
Is Kate using layaway--probably. But that doesn't mean diddly.
Layaway and coupons are not features reserved for the low income class.
Harping on their wealth and using that as your evidence that they couldn't possibly be doing those things is pre-posterous.
Am I naive to believe that Kate limited her budget to eight $25 toys. Heck know.
They probably could spend $1000.
The point is who cares.
Her income doesn't automatically exclude her desire to save money.
Granted--without the endorsement would she use layaway--probably not. I myself am not a fan of K-mart and our income is but a fraction of Kate.
I've used layaway once in my life.
Layaway is also beneficial for hiding Christmas gifts regardless of budgetary abilities to otherwise do without layaway.
This is to say--you are entitled to your opinion, I just personally find your arguments weak based on much research in finance and those who keep their money and those who can't figure out why they run out of it all the time.
Really check into that first book. It may or may not open your eyes, but at least you will have evidence that yes--folks with money do tend to pinch their pennies so that they can keep more of it.
"I wasn't paying super close attention as I listened to these podcasts, but when they discuss that the film crew is there for three days, was he implying that they film in their home for three days, or three days overall, no matter the location?"
I have presumed that aside from vacations (disney, hawaii, utah, etc) that this was each week period.
For vacations, since those are special and documenting an experience, I have presumed that the taping schedule was much more relaxed.
And using Disney as an example, it is odd that they only showed footage of the trip there, arrival day, the one day at MK and departure day.
They were physically at Disney for 5 days and it would be a waste of resources to not show footage of any of the other 4 days of the trip. I presume that these had to have been off days b/c there is no financial explanation of why that footage would have ended up on the cutting room floor. It just doesn't fit production logic. (tv prod degree here!)
For hawaii--weren't they there for 2 weeks? I'm not sure, I didn't watch the entire episodes--but what they showed was very specific and would not have included filming each and every day of the trip. So again, logic prevails that they must have had off days b/c again, why waste the crews time to only drop several days on the floor.
But I wasn't there--this is just based on what I see and while I am not convince they adhere to the same shooting schedule on vacation due to what they do end up showing on tv b/c it translates into more than 3 days. (i.e. even disney--they showed 2 days of travel, 1 day at MK and departure day which was all in 7 day period and comes to 4 days).
But again, I presume the schedule he speaks of is in regard to their day to day life and as regular families often deviate from the norm when they go on vacation, the same could be true for the Gosselins when it comes to filming.
Like Sarah Jessica Parker and the hair coloring product. I have no doubt she is using over the counter Garnier for her hair. Of course it is being applied by a very highly paid colorist to make sure she gets her desired color and such. But she indeed is using the OTC product.
I don't believe that SJP uses anything but high end salon products.
I do remember years ago in Lynn Redgrave's autobiography she was already using Weight Watchers when they contacted her to be a spokesperson. While making the agreement, it was something to the affect “we'd like you to try some”. She wasn't going to be required to do the diet and eat the food.
Re the crew on the vacations. I don't remember them saying anything about HI. But I'm pretty sure I remember when they were in NC on the beach 4th/July episode, that Kate said they had a week with the crew and a week by themselves.
Like Sarah Jessica Parker and the hair coloring product. I have no doubt she is using over the counter Garnier for her hair. Of course it is being applied by a very highly paid colorist to make sure she gets her desired color and such. But she indeed is using the OTC product.
I don't believe that SJP uses anything but exclusive high end salon products.
I do remember years ago in Lynn Redgrave's autobiography she was already using Weight Watchers when they contacted her to be a spokesperson. While making the agreement, it was something to the affect “we'd like you to try some”. She wasn't going to be required to do the diet and eat the food.
Re the crew on the vacations. I don't remember them saying anything about HI. But I'm pretty sure I remember when they were in NC on the beach 4th/July episode, that Kate said they had a week with the crew and a week by themselves.
Anya said... Rufus, is there any chance you have a link to the article you referenced?
The link to the article (which perhaps is not the correct word) is http://www.realityblurred.com/realitytv/archives/the_biggest_loser_6/2008_Dec_16_product_placement
Que said... I've missed the El Loco Pollo placements on Flipping out.
Funny you say that Que because the last line of the "article" says, "Number three was El Pollo Loco on Flipping Out, which was so effective and well-integrated I had no idea it was product placement, I just assumed Jeff Lewis and company had lunch there."
Ok so.. there is a FAMILY GIFT, LAY AWAY, ON-LINE GIFTS, seems like more than the average middle class family is doing at the end of a crazy 2008!
Maybe, maybe not. Does it matter? I don't begrudge the Gosselins their success or how they choose to spend their money.
December 18, 2008 10:21 PM ------ I don't begrude their success or money either...I do have a little problem with how they acheived it which I don't think was all together honest.
However, I certainly don't think they are the only ones who achieve financial security dishonestly, white lying, or telling half truths.
I just don't take everything I see as %100 truth and good intention.
Your quote:If you believe a lot of what Jon and Kate say are white lies, then so be it
I want you to see how things from post to post get misconstrued. I can almost quarantee that someone will see your post and not even look at my post, and make the assumption I said alot.
I was referring to the overall picking apart of yours of Jon and Kate (your post of Dec 18th, 108pm) , thus the words "a lot".
NC, I like you alot! I hope you don't think I'm picking on you, because I'm not. I just think differently than you.
I was the poster who brought up The Millionaire Next Door on a previous topic - it's a great book, and a wonderful way to show what can happen when you apply yourself and live within your means.
However, I have to say that I don't believe Jon and Kate fit the profile of the millionaires listed in the book. #1 - All of the people in the book work. Not that Jon and Kate aren't working now, but what are their future employment plans? A major point in the book is that wealthy people own their own company, and I don't see Jon and Kate preparing themselves for post show employment other than being a professional "spokesperson" which may or may not pan out. #2 - Millionaires tend to be conservative when buying their houses, tending to underbuy vs. picking a larger house. The house that the Gosselins reportly have chosen is lovely, but the larger the house the higher the upkeep. Again, when the show's over, will have the Gosselin's be able to replace that salary with one that will allow them to maintain that? In other words, can a nurse and a lower level IT tech afford it? (I'm guessing on Jon's level based on how many years he's been in the field - I'm guessing 3 to 4 years, plus if he goes back he'll need to have some education to be up to speed.) I'm sure there are more, but those ae the ones I remember off the top of my head.
In terms of using coupons, I would like to know what Jon and Kate use their coupons on. Because as someone who tries to buy organic myself, I really don't find all that many. Trader Joes mainly uses their own in house products (which is why their costs are lower) and Whole Foods carries brands that I usually don't see coupons for. So, I'm guessing that Kate clips coupons for paper plate (unless she chooses more green plates which again, haven't seen coupons for), soap, tooth paste, etc. which does save money but probably not the savings you would think because generally the bulk of the spending goes towards groceries. So when Kate says she clips coupons, I think, technically I'm sure it's true on a few ideas but really I think she's just paying lip service to create a "look what a thrify mom I am" spokesperson image.
In terms of layaway, I'm sure she might have a few toys in layaway as part of being a Kmart spokesperson, but if Kmart wasn't paying her she wouldn't be using it. First, look at the gifts the kids received last year (that's just go with the theory that these are the only Christmas gifts they received, though I don't believe that is true.) The only toys I really remember were the religious action figures, which generally you don't find at Kmart. I believe the other toys were along that line, but to be honest I'm not 100% sure. 2nd) Their previous big "let's go Christmas shopping" episode was done at Toys R Us, which does not offer layaway. So those are 2 years where we can rule out using Kmart layaway for Christmas.
Merryway -
I have to agree with Mom-ynous about SJP. I'm sure it is stated in her contract that she must use the product, or face being sued. (didn't this just happen to Charlize Theron (sp?) However, I'm sure a high end professional applies the product to ensure everything turns out ok.
nc resident -
I have had some conversations with someone who has sent Kate a gift. She originally contacted her through the email adress on their website.
Is Kate using layaway--probably. But that doesn't mean diddly. If I believe what everyone else has said in the advertsing industry on this blog; then that statement really cannot be true. More likely than not Kate is being compensated by KMart for her lawaway spot. Then we could assume that she is either being paid or she is being compted with products. That is fine then. Your comment about advertising I remember. Joe Namath was advertising womens panty hose yeah I'm that old and it caused a stir.
Guinevere i wanted to take a moment to offer you an apology. My lack of html skills made my posts almost impossible to read. I understand now, even though I took issue with that earlier, why you bold or italic the other posters comments to show:
Aap, that was interesting about Theron, I like her work and checked it out. I can't imagine a life where you are paid to where jewels.
http://www.observer.com/2008/style/charlize
There are so many different types of ads with different regulations. I guess I wouldn't want to even begin to decipher it all. I know street actors who did local one-time pay tv commercials and that's it.
Regarding the coupons, I think you'd be surprise by how much you can save on dry-goods by clipping coupons. But, the big box stores don't take them.
People do need to be allowed to speak in general terms. Kate saying she has always clipped coupons, well, she may have done it with her mom as a little girl. As far as being thrifty, I bet being a pastor's daughter she was raised in this manner. It could go either way. But these are ads and promotions and should be taken as such. IMO
Nc res as far as Jon's statement that he doesn't read hate email. Well, of course he has to read some to delete and he's aware of it. As time allows and in general terms, you say “you don't read it” meaning: you don't pay it any mind, you don't waste your time reading it through, etc. That's a funny flashback to Joe Namath in pantyhose! :)
Episode on St. Jude's Hospital + No mention on personal website = ?
Why would the Gosselins not mention anything about this visit. Not in the prayer list, inspirational stories or any link to TLC to see pictures. Even saying hey be sure to watch the show on Monday night. Not a word.
Someone mentioned the pediatric cancer charity if you read the site they donate proceeds from the website to that group.
Thanks for visiting...so many have helped us in the past and we want to help others in need. We will be donating a portion of the proceeds from the website to families in need and charity organizations (our cause of choice? Pediatric cancer research - www.pcfusa.org).
Thanks for being a part by visiting our site!
You asked what I think this equals. Reluctantly I think they are trying to set us up for the new house episode. Kate has mentioned a number of times that it will be seen or a part of an upcoming episode. This was done on Little People when Matt went to Iraq and Amy ran up the stairs the remodel appears to have been done. But I suspect they caught some flax to so they changed the order in which the episodes were seen. JMO
Why would the Gosselins not mention anything about this visit. Not in the prayer list, inspirational stories or any link to TLC to see pictures. Even saying hey be sure to watch the show on Monday night. Not a word
Well, if you look at their website closely you will see that there is not specific mention of any of their episodes. Them not mentioning this episode is no different then them not mentioning the episode in which they held the tag sale for the pediatric cancer research charity.
They mention their show, but I do not think that they even have a link to the TLC website which publicizes the show.
If you've followed this saga for any length of time, you know that despite Jon being an IT person they do not regularly update their website(s).
You draw a conclusion that just can't be made when you wrote:
Reluctantly I think they are trying to set us up for the new house episode.
I think that a more likely explanation is that TLC prohibits it or that they just don't update their wesbite regularly.
But really, so what if this is leading up to the episode that reveals their new house. What conclusion are you making then?
"(our cause of choice? Pediatric cancer research - www.pcfusa.org)."
While it's true they didn't mention the yard sale episode on their web site, they certainly mentioned their "cause of choice" which was the purpose of the yard sale. If they had time to update the web site to make sure their fans know how important this "cause" is to the family, why wouldn't the same effort be made for St. Jude's?
It would be a fair assumption on the part of the audience that the work this organization does must be so meaningful to the Gosselins that they would take the entire family on a trip to another state to teach the children about "giving back" at this facility. I don't think it's implausible to expect at least a simple mention, not an episode description, on their web site with a link to St. Jude's, as they did for pcfusa.
I think the issue with Kate is that she only brought the coupon clipping when she is a spokesperson for P&G, which uses coupons as a form of advertising, and she's using layaway because she's a spokesperson for Kmart. So it appears that Kate will say she does "blank" if the price is right, which to me doesn't come across as credible or believable.
NC Res, do you have a problem with some of these or all of these?
Actually as difficult as it may be for some people here to believe, none of it but, I feel this way.
Anything donated was done so because the Gosselins expressed a dire need and people kindly responded. No problem with that!
I take issue with Kates' sense of entitlement, and her comments that society owed her.
I also came to the conclusion based on residents comments on newspaper articles that appeared in the Reading Eagle, and her book that at sometime they no longer had a need, at least for what was being donated. Quinevere had an excellent answer in another post about this and actually I agree. I do think alot of the negative opinion about them stems from this. Even though I see her point about that then, the donations still continue. They admit having a yard sale each year. This year a U-haul truck full. Their website back then was regularly updated and never once said hey we have enough, it still does not. Why not include a comment about not donating to them and sending to others? I also feel that they received much of what they did, based on the comments they made that anything donated would be donated to another needy family. That is where they were less than honest. You would have to agree that if the show is their life that we have seen no evidence of J&K giving back so to speak until this year. In the scheme of things are they required to donate to anything ABSOLUTELY NOT, but I see this as being less than genuine. I also feel that there is a direct correlation in the hiring of a PR firm and these changes. That was 3.5 to 4 yrs ago so I'll let that rest. I did want to clarify the organic cow issue even though it really doesn't matter who paid. It has been said that I was irresponsible in spreading lies from another site. I found the web archieve (webcrawer) from a forum. I say what follows only to defend my position on my conclusion not as a statement about J&K. Everytime we see some product listed or named it has been one of the following. A praise that someone donated that item, or a request for that as a need. Why am I to assume out of the numerous things listed on their site this single item was purchased? I honestly didnt even know her and Jodi split the meat. But however it was obtained they either paid for it or the website promoting it paid for it, product advertising either way is fine with me.
If I can I'd like to say I found all these things simply searching for the Gosselin website. I saw that disclaimer that was quickly removed and began to wonder what the heck? I looked down and saw tons of other links, on the search engine page. So had I not looked at these sites or links I'd would still be a happy viewer. I did love the show and have watched from the beginning.
The Gs did not put St. Jude's on their website so therefore . . . .
it was a K mart, Gymboree, commercial required of J&K there spokeperson that benefited an excellent charity, and when they the director said "CUT" its been forgotten. I know that sounds callous Linda is that what you wanted me to say?
"spanglish - I'm not trying to be difficult, but what conclusion are you (and nc resident) making?"
I wouldn't presume to speak for ncresident, but I've stated my conclusion, i.e.: "I don't think it's implausible to expect at least a simple mention, not an episode description, on their web site with a link to St. Jude's, as they did for pcfusa."
NC, I like you alot! I hope you don't think I'm picking on you, because I'm not. I just think differently than you. I sincerely thank you for that, and I feel the same. I always hope that we and anyone else here can agree to disagree in the spirit of debate, which this site is about.
Saint, Im so long winded I wanted to do two seperate posts and I wasn't ignoring you I just wanted make sure what I said makes sense.
I posted a youtube link for the Fox and Friends interview. Kate is talking about coupons and lawaway and she says, I've once said before that my job is cutting coupons because Jon works and that is continued. A lie well no but TLC had just released a statement regarding Paul Petersons' comments I think you might have saw that, condensed Kate is a SAHM. The irony is Kate had released a statement in the paper shortly after this interview about them both staying at home. It's actually a rather good point she makes and I applaud her for that. Now my points and concerns of them deal with public perception.
How does J&K look to the average TV viewer that doesn't get involved in the internet blogs. Jon works, Kate is a SAHM they have 8 lovely children. She uses layaway to spread out the payments and cuts coupons, heres where she has to dances. Maybe while Jon is at work?While she never says he is working away from home, she doesn't say what really is happening. Not to mention listen at 2:49 where one of the older girls says what appears to be "we what" and then they get a look from Kate.
Whether it is commercialized or not they want the average viewer to think they still have a need, IMO. This neediness IMO has been an ongoing theme for these two. They want us to feel they are still needy as some sense of entitlement for the 8 children. Their official website, the only place to get the real story about them, says no different.
Why do they want to be seen that way?
Without this perception of need her commercials would not be believable. Tom & Katie Cruise using layaway doesnt sell, but neither does J&K in a 1.3 million mansion yet to be seen by the average TV viewer seperate from the internet. It is possible, I know wealthy people that shop at Goodwill, but it doesn't sell.
Without the perception of need the donations sent to them and the kids would stop to some extent.
In summation my concern over them is what they want, or how they want us to think about them, that being middle class, still in some need. They have done nothing to disspell that conception.
I wouldn't presume to speak for ncresident, but I've stated my conclusion, i.e.: "I don't think it's implausible to expect at least a simple mention, not an episode description, on their web site with a link to St. Jude's, as they did for pcfusa."
With the holidays approaching and the economy in trouble, most of us are preparing to spend less this season. Jon has recently teamed up with Microsoft (it was Microsoft who arranged our interview) to share ideas and products for families to ease holiday budget concerns.
Since the topic of this thread is the Podcast this is taken from the site where it's found. That should tell everyone it's a commercial.
Doesn't almost every celebrity that appears on or in a talk shows, morning show, radio show and any other type of show or magazine article do so to promote something?
You've stated your expectation, which they didn't meet.
Although you didn't explicitly state this, your conclusion is that they weren't sinceresince they didn't make a specific mention of it on their website.
Okay. I don't draw the same conclusion as you and spanglish. Contrary to your statement that they updated their website regularly, I did not see it that way. Despite J being in IT, I thought that they were notoriously lax in updating their site and I think that this is an equally plausible explanation for the lack of mention on it on their website. I also think that it is an equally plausible explanation that their contract does not permit it.
But what does this have to do in your opinion to the build up to the reveal on their new house?
"Although you didn't explicitly state this, your conclusion is that they weren't sincere since they didn't make a specific mention of it on their website."
It seems I didn't provide the answer you wanted, so you chose to tell me what I meant to say. Just to be clear, my conclusion was nothing more than what I actually stated.
I apologize. Perhaps it is that I'm not understanding your point and that the internet impedes effective communication.
It seems to me that you are stating your expectation when you say this:
"I don't think it's implausible to expect at least a simple mention, not an episode description, on their web site with a link to St. Jude's, as they did for pcfusa."
So what is the conclusion that you draw? You expect them to mention this on their website which they did not. That is an expectation that they did not meet.
Are you irritated? Do you believe that they are not sincere in their interest in St. Jude? What is it that ticks you off so much about this omission from their website.
Thanks for the link to the FTC Guidelines for endorsements.
I think that with the requirement that the endorser is an actual user of the product we can assume that the Gs use layaway.
I have a sibling who is married to a very wealthy business executive. She does not need to clip coupons or watch her budget, but we were raised to do all those things because we were from a big family with not a lot of money.
Old habits die hard. She grocery shops with her coupon caddy and goes to the clearance rack at Target for her kids and her clothing. She isn't cheap, but she is still thrifty. That is a reflection of our upbringing.
Jon got a free laptop and what's the big deal if he has to rave about how great it is? ... I'm going to rave of the free Dell laptop I was given from my hubby's work because of the field he's in. It's great by the way :) I don't understand what's the big deal with endorsements. It's not like Jon and Kate started this trend!!!
My hubby thinks I need a new hobby but whatever.. he made a good point and I would like to share it. Jon plugs Sony and Live.com and gets free merchandise and Kate is a spokesperson for stores like plugging layaway for kmart which she has to buy stuff to put away for later...who's smart? Jon of course: he gets free(bleep). lol
I don't understand what's the big deal with endorsements.
Indian Princess, let me summarize. 1) it has taken an interesting show and turned it into a 30 min infomercial, more about selling a place or activity they are doing than about the family. And since Jon and Kate are bad actors, sometimes it's a very boring infomercial. I want the show I liked back! 2) People here who don't find the product placement annoying and accept Jon and Kate's inconsistencies, can't seem to understand why it drives other people crazy that some of the things Kate says seems to be bought and paid for by sponsors. I don't know, and have my doubts, that the 2 sides will ever meet.
It's not like Jon and Kate started this trend!!! For a continuous show based on 1 family - I'd say Jon and Kate have taken it to a new level. Kate might as well wear a shirt that says "this space for rent."
Rufus - thanks for adding that information regarding Flipping out - now that I have read that, I do recall them mentioning that they were going to order lunch from there. Very interesting!
Indianprincess, thanks so much for that link. I always wondered about that stuff.
To me it is obvious that if they put a link on their website to St. Judes it would be like taking away from the charity that they had already personally chosen to support. It would almost be rude. Kate has reported about interaction with children who have cancer. They also have a couple of pages used for personal stories of others and where donations can be made. None of this means they have forgotten about St. Judes or happy to be participating. The yard sale may have been something Kate wanted to do (prob for the move) and so that part of their life was filmed. The St. Judes episode was definitely a joint corporate venture as a Holiday Episode in support of St. Judes.
Also, I don't know of any celebrities who say “don't send me stuff”. Fans will do it any way and enjoy it. That's what some fans do.
Que: thanks for the insight. So they have to plug some merchandise I don't see it such a big deal.
I will have to say this about product placements. Now I see it all the time on TV shows and movies. Now I'm starting to think I really never liked Diet Pepsi but drink it because I see it in a lot of movies,tv etc... hum..now I'm thinking :)
Thanks Linda - I thought it was pretty funny myself, but sometimes I am the only one laughing at my jokes. Nice to know it was appreciated :-).
Indian Princess - With the way our country is right now, this is such a small thing. We just have a difference of opinion that causes us to view things on the show on the opposite ends of the spectrum.
However, I would like to ask - do you think the show overall has gotten better?
Que said... And since Jon and Kate are bad actors, sometimes it's a very boring infomercial. Well, I agree with that. I don't think they are that great at it either. When I watch the show, it makes for an awkward piece in the show. However, just because I don't LIKE the endorsements, doesn't mean I think they are wrong on some level. Just annoying.
My objection to the show is based on them showing too much of the children's private lives. It's been reduced a lot this season (IMO,) in part b/c of these annoying endorsements and trips/staged activities, so I accept them for what they are.
I don't think they are wrong for choosing to do the endorsements, just that it makes for a bad show IMHO. Though I understand your point about the kids private life.
However, I would like to ask - do you think the show overall has gotten better?
Well I would have to say it's about the same for me. I watch a show I find entertaining. I like to discuss the show with people who have different opinions. I don't find nothing wrong with how Jon and kate decide for there family as in doing the show and if I did I wouldn't be going to sites to talk about my dislikes. When the show is done, I'll move on and if it's starting to bore to me to death I'll stop watching and more onto something else of interest. JMO
We just have a difference of opinion that causes us to view things on the show on the opposite ends of the spectrum.
Nothing wrong with this and if everyone had the same opinions and views..how boring would that be!
There are people who I care very much for who enjoy watching the show. See, I can disagree with the direction the show is going and still have a good reason to watch. I don't expect you to understand that.
It was just a question. If my discussing what I dislike about the show, please feel free to skip over my posts.
que: the same here and I don't expect for you to understand mine :) I know you asked a question and I answered you. Like I said..because I don't go and chat about shows I dislike doesn't mean no one else can. You have every right to your opinion and I can choose to not agree with them..
Que, just an FYI, did you know that Kate was using coupons on an earlier show? I think it was second season. The kids are napping, Kate only had 3 hours to get all the shopping done and the viewers go with her. She has her coupons all sorted and organized and showed how much she saved, says she talks to Jon about it and wallah!! her timing is perfect and she makes it back it right on time.
Or: Voilà, she's back just in time. I knew that didn't look right. I have been doing seasonal work in a place that “helps Santa out with what the elves can't make”, as my little one says. I think it's affecting me more than I thought.
Besides the product placement (that was an interesting list Rufus), the in-show commercials have been Tonka cars, Rose Petal Cottage, Wii, and Vtech computer game, that I can recall. I don't really care for the trend either in the normal episodes. I'm wondering if it will continue or be so much in the next season.
indianprincess said... My hubby thinks I need a new hobby but whatever.. he made a good point and I would like to share it. Jon plugs Sony and Live.com and gets free merchandise and Kate is a spokesperson for stores like plugging layaway for kmart which she has to buy stuff to put away for later...who's smart? Jon of course: he gets free(bleep). lol
Yeah, well, I can see your husband's point! Hopefully he shares!
Kate might as well wear a shirt that says "this space for rent."
It is amusing, but also true. I do see Kate as someone who is not going to turn down even one opportunity if it helps secure her family's financial future. In that sense, I find her very relatable. If I were in her shoes, I would probably do the same - strike when the irons hot. To me, this is NOT the behavior of a diva, but someone who is willing to do what it takes to make the best life possible for her family.
I understand not everyone will agree with the methods, but to me it is understandable....
Somewhere I remember writing that those who think Kate used layaway at Kmart must think Florence Henderson danced around her kitchen singing about Wesson oil. So sorry everyone, I had no idea that they actually had to use the product as shown in the link Indianprincess posted. Since $s are the bottom line, I'm just naturally distrusting of any ads. Never have I thought that any of the celebrity models or actresses have used whatever over-the-counter product they were endorsing, not even in the ad itself.
I don't have a problem with J&K doing endorsements, that's the way the business is and it's good work. To me, it's no different than any other celebrity telling me how great something is.
Merryway that law was adopted in May 1975 and amended in 1980 and it is rather involved.
The longtime spokeswoman for Wesson cooking oil was actress Florence Henderson, who coined the term "Wessonality" in her advertisements. She would appear in television commercials for Wesson from 1976 until 1996.
Merryway, I haven't seen that episode. Thanks for letting me know, I'll keep an eye out for it in one of the marathons.
Anya, I agree with your assessment of Kate. At the same time though, I can't help but think that the immediate financial gains are blinding Jon and Kate to some potential long term issues, whether it's the public overdosing on Jon and Kate promoting everything (leading to the general public's backlash to so much Jon and Kate) or having so much of their kids' private lives available for public consumption.
"It seems to me that you are stating your expectation …. You expect them to mention this on their website…"
I can understand that it may seem I'm stating a my expectation, but in fact I was speaking in general terms, not that it was my personal expectation. Perhaps for clarity I should have said, "it's not unreasonable to expect…" I'm not irritated or ticked off; the show doesn't provoke that level of emotion for me. They may be sincere about their interest in St. Jude's: Kate was very clear about her feelings, saying "I couldn't get [kids with cancer] out of my mind…", "I follow a lot of kids with cancer…", "Pediatric cancer hits very, very close to home (because she has 8 healthy children)…" OTOH, Kate is a spokesperson for Kmart, which happens to support St. Jude, so the "sincerity" may be job-driven.
Que and Anya, I also agree with what you've been saying about Kate and endorsements. I think she is not only striking while the iron is hot, but doing as much as she can, as fast as she can, to get it all over with. I don't blame her either. I doubt I'd enjoy her job, and I think she works hard at it.
And Que, I definitely agree with this: "I can't help but think that the immediate financial gains are blinding Jon and Kate to some potential long term issues..."
I don't think doing this many episodes was a wise decision for this reason. That doesn't mean I hate them or think they are "exploiting" the kids or are horrible parents. I don't think the kids are necessarily going to have this horrible adulthood either. There have been very definite benefits to doing the show that will be long-lasting. So maybe I am wrong but, I think, on balance, it's a mistake.
117 comments:
lol..my hubby and I just finished listening to them before I saw this discussion topic. They are good recordings expecially the second one. You go Jon!
Podcast #3 - am I misinterpreting or was there a major contradiction in there? I thought Jon said they were ONLY getting one large family gift (the laptop) this year (sounded to me like he was saying - as opposed to getting individual gifts). Then later he said he bought things online from the kids' Christmas lists. What?
Based on a few different articles I've read when it come to the G's this year and xmas, I was under the impression that they were getting one large family gift, the computer, as well as the stuff they put on layaway and whatnot.
I am interested in Jon these days. After the last Soup clip (sooo funny), I have been wondering how he handles being demeaned in front the tv world. It would take a strong man not to be bothered by some of it. He is definitely the man behind the woman and Kate does most of the talking. I always want to hear him speak more to hear his take.
He talked specifically about filming days and retakes. It sounds like the kids have lots of days where the cameras aren't around and I believe him.
As for any discrepancies or thought on the one big family gift but buying more presents online, Kate shopping at Kmart and clipping coupons, etc. these interviews are obviously paid endorsements and I would view them as I would any commercial.
I did catch when Jon said “buy presents online” because it sounded like he had just said something different than his first statement. In this case I think they're saying they put the majority of the $s into a family computer. The thing is they prob got one for free as well as whatever $s they make. It's a promotion. It's kind of a sneaky and old timey way to do it. But, what I am wondering is aren't you supposed to be told when you're watching a commercial or reading an ad? In a way it's almost subliminal advertising. I have only seen a few LPBW, do they do the same type of sponsor shots of products or do the promote anything personally?
I thought that, too Carp, that they were getting the computer for their "family gift" as well as the other stuff (on layaway) and whatnot.
Is it me....or does Jon sound very accomodating and just down to earth? Good to hear him talking about his family and the amount of days they record.
Yeah Theresa I agree. Jon does seem down to earth. I always liked him. I think he's funny and he always cracks me up when he gives Kate those "looks." lol
This is a great link! Thanks :). As far as the family gift vs little gifts, there is no discrepancy. My parents always do a big gift (like a copier/printer/scanner for my bro and sis in law) but also get a few little stocking stuffers (comfy socks, a dorky tie, and candy or treats). In our family, at times we get "one big gift" but we don't actually only open one present. Its just that 95% of the Christmas budget for that person goes to one thing.
So yeah-- I didn't see that as a problem at all, just because my family is the same way!
That was a great interview with Jon! I really wish we could here him speak more without Kate by his side.
Note to production staff: do seperate interviews occasionally!
P.S. I heard the contradiction too! No way I think they are buying a computer and that's it.
Just be honest...
I wouldn't call it a contradiction if you look at it like Kate bought her gifts at Kmart with Layaway because she just maybe likes this idea. Jon bought his gifts online. My hubby and I don't buy our gifts at the same place and he buys presents and I buy presents. I don't think they are trying to pull something over to fool the public.
I agree with Merryway that the 3rd podcast was essentially a commercial for Microsoft computers (come on--the list of features! Who IRL talks like that?!) and the website that pays you back to shop on-line.
In my family growing up, we all received smaller gifts (e.g. socks, pj's, etc.) and then we got a large gift from "Santa." I interpreted Jon's comment as the whole family would share a large gift--the laptop--instead of receiving individual large gifts. Of course, if the glowing mention of Microsoft was a commercial, then I suspect the laptop won't be purchased by J&K, but given to the family, but that's just speculation.
Love the interview! He was very relaxed and down to earth!
Great idea about doing interviews on the show separately once in awhile!
I don't see the big deal with what he said about the Xmas presents. I would agree with Lizabeth and assume that the Gosselins will be getting 1 large family presents and then perhaps smaller presents for each child. I know that on the Giving Back episode Kate told Alexis that she could put the Elmo doll on her Christmas list. Honestly though, what is the big deal? That bit was obviously an endorsement for Microsoft. It had nothing to do with him being dishonest!
Sure IndianPrincess,
Kate went to KMART months ahead of time and put things on Layaway?
I don't mean to be rude, but that really is so farfetched....come on.
Jon and Kate are great advertisers. I think bringing back Layaway was a brilliant marketing move for Kate, and for 90% or more of her viewers, they may very well think she uses it.
I for one do not.
TO NC RES,
Please come back!
You don't belong over there!
I agreed with your posts...I got your points. And I saw Saint's pov as well...
This last episode was a difficult one to blog about.
But after watching it again, and putting everyone's thoughts together, really, ST. Jude was the winner.
It reminds me of the old stars who said their family always used ______ or gave ________, etc. When of course, they were spokespeople under contract to promote a product. I can't think of any at the moment, Lucy and Desi with Phillip Morris cigs is the only thing I can think of but that's not a good example. It was always pretty clear that it was an endorsement.
Re: Product placement I was curious about this, because I know they use the product placement in movies. I did some quick search on Ozzie & Harriet sponsors, the orig tv family (family in real life, characters with the same name on tv). It's not any great revelation in regards to J&K, but I thought it was an interesting bit of tv history.
Speaking of the house at 522 Sycamore Road, Hilldale, the set was an exact replica of their real life home in Hollywood.
If you remember all those scenes in the kitchen, that's because up until 1956, Hotpoint, the sponsor, was displaying their products! After that, you probably recall more outdoors scenes. Did you notice the cameras around everyone's necks? Yup, Kodak became the sole sponsor.
http://www.fiftiesweb.com/tv/ozzie-and-harriet.htm
I love the recent comments addition!
Fiona, I don't think it's farfetched Kate uses layaway. Are you too good to use Layaway Fiona? Do you not try to save money where you can? So why is it hard to think Jon and Kate doesn't save where they can. That is not thinking farfetched!
Fiona-- If the Microsoft endorsement deal is anything like the endorsement deals we do at our station, yes, his payment is indeed the new family computer. (or maybe even part of his payment is this computer).
FIONA said...
That was a great interview with Jon! I really wish we could here him speak more without Kate by his side.
Amen, Fiona. My favorite Gosselin changes, but Jon is it right now. I've noticed he seems more comfortable (or something) recently, maybe just more mature, and he really plays well with the kids. He reminds me of my little brother, a great dad. And he's funny.
IndianPrincess,
Actually it is none of your beeswax if I use layaway or not...I suppose if I had wanted to throw that in I would have. Too good...absolutley not!
You have your opinion that Kate trucks down to KMART and puts things on lawaway, I have mine.
I guess you could go by what Jon said in his interview today that they buy things online to avoid the lines.
Ever picked up something from layawy this time of year???? Talk about lines.
I am sorry but your thinking Kate uses lawaway makes me laugh. :)
The G's are celebs, not ordinary people anymore. I seriously doubt she does any of her own errands anymore-not a slam, just a speculation.
TO NC RES,
Please come back!
Please tell me I didn't chase NC Resident away? I hope not.
Theresa said...
Fiona-- If the Microsoft endorsement deal is anything like the endorsement deals we do at our station, yes, his payment is indeed the new family computer. (or maybe even part of his payment is this computer).
December 18, 2008 12:18 PM
---
Well sure...I believe that completely. I just wish he wouldn't say they are "going to buy" when it most likely was gratis.
I would much rather him say Microsoft offered our family a new laptop this year...
They are spokespeople advertising...just call it like it is. And I bet they are in high demand. I think most people are tickled to see Jon or Kate on TV, on a magazine, etc....
I don't think it's too far-fetched that Kate uses layaway. And, I believe she is the perfect person to endorse it. Mom of 8 kids, popular, etc.
Remember, just becuase they can afford stuff now (or not have to do without now) doesn't mean you have to buy the brand name or not use coupons, etc. I always gathered that Kate is a thrifty person. She even said on the show where she went shopping, that she uses coupons and I still believe that to be true. The kids are getting older, eating more, outgrowing clothes. She said it herself...her job is to make sure that they save money. (or something to that effect on that show, since she stayed home with the kids). (I have well off friend who uses coupons all the time).
Endorsement deals are a perfect way to provide for your family. Or, to receive a service that otherwise would be impossible. I work at a radio station and have had laser eye surgery. I could not have done it without the endorsement deal. My on air partner has furnished his house with an endorsement deal from a local furniture store. Another disc jockey has not had to drive her own car in the last 6 months because she's riding around in an endorsement deal car. There's no difference with our plugging of these clients, then that of J&K with Microsoft and K-mart.
I am very thankful for my eye surgery. Jon had his hairplugs and Kate her tummy tuck and I certainly can understand when they say they are thankful and could not have had these services otherwise. These are huge operations that may or may not be covered by insurance. If not, it is way too expensive. And, I don't know of anybody who would turn it down.
Let me just say though, with an endorsement deal, there is a lot of work involved. Mine was most likely different than J&K's because I'm just on a radio station. I had to write and produce 3 live spots daily that all ran in our show. And, they all had to be different scripts.
So, even though they don't have to maybe write and do live spots like I did...I guarnatee the sponsor (o Tales of Desperaux) the other night WANTED Kate to read the story to the kids (with stuffed animals provided by the company).T That was most likely a part of the contract/agreement with TLC.
Sorry for the ramble, but I have been seeing so many "they get so many freebies" and people bitching about it, when in reality, they really do have to work for it.(Example: Kate's pr tour for KMart and P&G brands.) That's extensive traveling.
And, the clothes and brands of the sponsors of the show, that comes with the territory and you'd bet I certainly would be outfitting my kids in Gymboree and Gap. I wouldn't want to lose any kind of endorser. Not good for business.
Okay...I'm done with my War & Peace. :)
I loved the interview- he's so laid back, it's nice to hear more from him. I really enjoyed the "if you hate us you don't have to watch" point. Novel Idea.
fiona, why are sorry for your opinion? So we think differently, nothing wrong with that!
amyf said...
Podcast #3 - am I misinterpreting or was there a major contradiction in there?
Combine that with the St. Judes episode amyf and it is confusing. We go from no gifts (giving back) kinda hard for kids that age to go without presents, so I dismissed that from the beginning, that and the Elmo purchase told me different. Wait we have stuff in layaway, maybe thats it! Big Kmart plug. wink, wink
I'm gonna say this in a snarky way if I can. This show has to have set records for product endorsements in a single season, maybe even an episode. LOLIs there an Emmy for that?
Then we go to one big gift. A Microsoft computer (of which Jon is now a spokesperson) hint, hint. Then he mentioned gifts being purchased online, how do you do that? By means of a technology device: you guessed it, a computer. He even details its internal components using computer jargon and in a bit of wit uses the term firewall, to describe himself in another cast, because every great computer needs a great firewall. hint, hint again, Norton anti-virus next stop?
Now if that isn't enough contradiction, since this is a Q & A podcast right?, btw that means question and answer, ha ha actually it's a Microsoft commercial but forget that for now, we have what follows.
Jon describes the filming days and negative comments directed at their show, J&K plus 8. Contrary to what they have previously said about the filming days, being 3-4 that is a misnomer Jons' words: one of those days being on the couch, it's now as little as one day of ACTUAL filming. 3 days are scheduled and he would kick the camera crew to the curb if they were there 24/7 almost quoting him word for word. Now how does a viewer with the Hawaii episodes still fresh in mind buy one bit of that. A show that spanned nearly three weeks, encompassed two seperate episodes had as little as 3 days of filming, and where was this film crew, during the three weeks? He goes on to say 1 day filming, 1 day for the interview, 1 day for PR, "like today". Not to mention they don't have a bathroom camera, well I never thought that, or a shower cam either but we have had a camera man following them in there and potty scenes as well. But kudos to Jon that has stopped and sir I applaud you for that.
Now I believe filming time has begun to lessen, and delicate moments being filmed have dwindled as well. The last three episodes could have been filmed in one day or two maximum. The yard sale took 1 day, St. Judes 2 days filming, 2 days traveling (not shown)it appears.
See this is where Jon could have put alot of negative comments and nay-sayers like myself to rest, but, he did not. Furthermore in my opinion this is where the J&K PR train begins to derail and fast. If he would have said we use to film more, 3-4 days and we decided, after some consideration and comments from viewers to reduce that time, he would have had my vote. I personally think with the tups in school and on the advise PR team, filming time has been reduced. Not to mention Kate has been frequenting NY on a regular basis, so they have other "irons" in the fire. But he has to lets us know what we heard earlier was a misnomer, even though what we heard came from them!! They addressed this in a FAQ episode I think, but somehow this never came across to the viewers properly, wha??
He then proceeds to let us know he doesn't read hate mail. Now, I have never sent any but this again leads to more contradiction as many say the mailbox is always full and emails get returned and how does he know it's hate mail, unless he reads it first. Or maybe its email subject line is titled HATE MAIL?
Yeah my head is spinning now too, but I'm almost done.
Finally in a comment right out of a blog site he tells us if you don't like our show don't watch. The lady doing the interview says the same about her blog site, no worries there from me though. never heard of it before today. Be careful with that one though Jon, remember Proverbs 16:18.
He also includes a comment about never feeling so strongly about things as to have an opinion about them. IMO a shot directed at blog sites that comment about them. Contradiction again, if thats the case where did all his comments come from he had the moderators of the Triplet Connection delete? Oh well who knows?
Kristi sorry so long, I hope that Saints html advise made reading easier. TY again Saint.
Linda please do me a favor, if you want to debate my comments have at it, I only ask you respect me enough to refrain from making comments about me personally. BTW my agenda here is the same as everyone else; to discuss the show, or topics. Nothing more.
The comments section after the podcast started out nice but started to get negative quick. There was a nasty poem by "florida". I might have to change my screen name to the artist formerly know as Florida Mom :).
I like Jon. He seems like a very hands on dad, and the kids seem to have such a good time with him. I like that he tries to get Kate to focus on the fun of playing with the kids and not the work all the time.
nc resident said...
I'm gonna say this in a snarky way if I can. This show has to have set records for product endorsements in a single season, maybe even an episode. LOLIs there an Emmy for that?
Actually, I just read this article...
Yesterday, Nielsen released their list of the broadcast TV shows with the most product placement, and The Biggest Loser is number one with 6,248 placements this year. (More appallingly, Nielsen’s data is only from Jan. 1 to Nov. 30—meaning that there are many more product placements not counted.) That’s more than 1,600 more than the number two show, American Idol, which had 4,646 placements during its seventh season.
Overall, all of the reality shows in the top 10 except two are on Fox or NBC (only one scripted show made the top 10).
The Biggest Loser: 6,248
American Idol 7: 4,636
Extreme Makeover: Home Edition: 3,371
America’s Toughest Jobs: 2,807
One Tree Hill, 2,575
Deal or No Deal: 2,292
America’s Next Top Model: 2,241
Last Comic Standing: 1,993
Kitchen Nightmares: 1,853
Hell’s Kitchen: 1,807
Only one of those shows, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, made Nielsen’s list of the “Top 10 Most Effective Product Placements on Brand Opinion.” CVS’ appearance on the ABC show was number one, and Sears, which provides happiness to destitute families through appliances, was fifth.
But every single other show in the top 10 was on Bravo, like #2 TRESemme and #4 Bluefly.com on Project Runway, and #6 Glad, #7 Whole Foods, and #8 Food & Wine Magazine on Top Chef. Number three was El Pollo Loco on Flipping Out.
I wasn't paying super close attention as I listened to these podcasts, but when they discuss that the film crew is there for three days, was he implying that they film in their home for three days, or three days overall, no matter the location? Of course they aren't filming three days in their home, because the recent episodes haven't been filmed in their home.
I've been wondering for some time if all these trips away aren't for a purpose. For example, as they were moving, did the show schedule many trips so that the Gosselins aren't at home while the packing/moving process is taking place? I've also wondered if they don't purposely film away from home so that their home/schedule/routine isn't so overly analyzed. People can't nitpick what is in your house and your daily routine if you aren't there. Also, if I were in their shoes, I'd much rather film outside of the home so that when I return, home is just that - home, not work. I'd much rather be able to come home to just my privacy and my family. Perhaps that is part of the reason so many episodes have been trips lately. Just a thought.
(Off topic here, but when I came to this website, I immediately scrolled down and didn't see the snow falling from the top of the page. For a moment, I thought I was losing my mind - or my eyesight! What were those little white things I saw on the screen? Sometimes I think I'm more of an airhead than I'd like to admit.)
Theresa said:
She said it herself...her job is to make sure that they save money. (or something to that effect on that show, since she stayed home with the kids).
Theresa you are exactly right, but the irony of that statement was she included that with the comment since Jon went to work she felt it was her job ie what you stated.
This is where maybe I split hairs but I firmly believe they get themselves caught in half-truths. At the time she said that Jon wasn't working and it was just after the Paul Peterson comments were addressed by TLC. Those being about the show affording Kate the luxury of being able to stay at home. I firmly believe that J&K mix some truth in with some well white lies (being polite) and it makes their whole story unbelievable.
I think they come across this way and have for a long time and some people see through that.
Hey Theresa. Just wanted to thank you for giving us a bit more information on endorsement deals. I agree there is *work* involved.
Rufus, is there any chance you have a link to the article you referenced? My head is still spinning as to the number of product placements that occur. I think we could easily do a whole feature on this. There are some folks who will only believe what they want to believe (i.e. product placement ONLY occurs on J&K or is only evil when it's done on J&K), but I think the rest of us would like to discuss this in more detail and learn a bit more about it.
I would believe that Kate used Layaway if they have done it from the beginning of the show. Instead, when they really had no money, we saw Kate and Jon at Toys r Us which I believe does NOT offer layaway service (and apparently no endorsement deal so I guess its goodbye TRU and hello Kmart.)
Examples people are giving of product placement are for sitcoms - Jon and Kate are NOT actors but they will tell you what they "really" do if you are the highest bidder. And people believe this is what they "really" do because Kate states "this is our real life." This is why people question everything that comes out of their mouth.
Just saw this oblivious comment on GWoP and thought I would post it here. I am sure our friends at the Princess Boards will have something to say too!
Jen said...If Jon is telling the truth and the older girls really are using Google, I'm very worried for them. Out of curiosity, I just hopped onto google to type in "Mady Gosselin" to see what came up. Google has a function that automatically "guesses" what you're searching and fills in the most common related searches. So what came up?
Mady Gosselin X
Mady Gosselin X
Mady Gosselin X
My heart breaks for the day she googles herself and finds this stuff. It is disgusting that her parents have even put her in a situation like this.
_____________________________
Note, I removed the cruel adjectives that "Jen" felt the need to *repeat* in order to uh, make her point, I guess?
The lack of self-awareness is truly staggering! Raise your hand if you *really* believe Jen's heart breaks.
Anyone out there?!?
Rufus -
That was some pretty interesting information! Thanks for posting it. I've missed the El Loco Pollo placements on Flipping out, but Bravo is pretty blatant with their product placements. I will say though IMHO that there is a difference between those shows and K&J's - mainly that Jon and Kate's show is about their family and the things they do, while most of the ones list either contests or 1 family on 1 episode.
Mom -
Now might be a great time for that maketing / PR topic. Sooo....much...to...say...trying...to...be...good...and ...stay...on...topic.
Anya -
If it was one of the regulars on GWOP, I would say no but just a poster...well, she might be serious. I don't want to get into the whole teasing thing again, but if it's true, that's going to be hard to take as a young girl, let alone what happens when "mean kids" at school find out.
AAP
I emailed Mom this am and asked her if she wanted to do something. I think she does but we are all short on time. If you would like to write a paragraph explaining what you would like to discuss, I will post it. I haven't really been following all of the topics going on, so I am not the best one to do it. Email it to me at ninabell53@gmail.com
Thanks
NCresident said...
but the irony of that statement was she included that with the comment since Jon went to work she felt it was her job ie what you stated.
Yes, that is correct. At the time he went off to a job at an office. That was about two years ago...events and people change. And, people change jobs all the time. But, I think someone with Kate's personality won't give up control and that means she's probably still clipping coupons and watching the budget. It's an inate action of mothers. :)
But he has to lets us know what we heard earlier was a misnomer, even though what we heard came from them!! They addressed this in a FAQ episode I think, but somehow this never came across to the viewers properly, wha??
No, they don't have to let us know anything. Would it have been nice if he said, "in a previous episode we said yada yada ydad, but now our circumstances have changed a bit and now it's like this" Is that what you want them to do?Sure, that would be nice, but he doesn't "have to let us know".
NC, I really do believe a lot on the blogs is assumed as truth and extrapolated as truth because of the editing of the show. And, people are jealous. We only know what we see on a weekly show...one that was edited to fit 25 minutes from 3 days of shooting. There will bound to be contradictions and events and stuff out of context. People need to take that into consideration.
If you believe a lot of what Jon and Kate say are white lies, then so be it. That's your belief.
2cents
Oh keep it here, I get lost on all the threads. It's on topic, Jon was doing pr.
In a way aren't all things related??
Geesh, Nina now I am going to have to proofread and double check my spelling - lol. Sure, I'll take a crack at it, but I'm not promising greatness. Give me some time to come up with something.
merryway
Whatever you guys want to do is fine with me
Nina
but if it's true, that's going to be hard to take as a young girl, let alone what happens when "mean kids" at school find out.
December 18, 2008 4:40 PM
__________________
The mean kids at school find out because their mean mothers who post at gwop.
Sue --
A while back there was a boy on Oprah who eventually got invovled on online pornos. His mom was involved in internet security for a living but do you know who outed him - a classmate at school who found the video online.
If there was a mom at the kids school who posted on GWOP, I'm sure that would been make clear by now with someone claiming insider information (and you would know it's true because it was accurate.)
There's no difference with our plugging of these clients, then that of J&K with Microsoft and K-mart.
Not to be disagreeable but there is a ton of difference. Your on air they are on TV. People don't see you except for the occasional appearances which I'm sure you make. A good friend of mine had to for WUBE (Cincinnati) country station. You are not required by your employer to dress your children in clothing to display as an advertisement. And even if they did your on air we would not see them. Your house would not be displayed as well.
Nina & Merryway-
While I personally don't think pointing out the inconsistencies on the show is being negative, others here obviously do so out of consideration for them I do think it should a separate topic. That way, the people who chose to talk about it can talk freely and those that don't want to has the option of ignoring it. (Really, I'm just tired of anyone who doesn't agree and/or like everything on the show being labeled as negative or a hater.)
On the other hand, if people want to stay here, that means I don't have to write anything :-). So I can go either way.
Oh, it doesn't really matter. But I was attracted to the winding conversation on this blog.
I am interested in reading different postings, so write away aap.
Please submit something AAP
AAP
I just had someone email me and volunteered to write the article.
Rufus I knew American Idol did commercial spots for Ford, Dirty Jobs too. Deal or no deal I had no idea wow. Thanks and I agree about the link.
Cool. Thanks for letting me know Nina.
That was about two years ago...events and people change. Actually Theresa that was said in an interview in NY on a recent talk show. The buzz on some of the boards then three months ago was about Jon not working, which we found out later he wasnt. See where this is going. Kate clips coupons okay she does. Kate shops yep I agree. Was Jon working when she gave that interview it appears he wasn't. But she stated since he worked and she stayed at home that was her job to cut cost and save money.
My quote: some well white lies (being polite)
Your quote:If you believe a lot of what Jon and Kate say are white lies, then so be it
I want you to see how things from post to post get misconstrued. I can almost quarantee that someone will see your post and not even look at my post, and make the assumption I said alot.
TO NC RES,
Please come back!
Well Im back and I'm almost sure 90% dont want me back hehe
NC
That absolutely is not true. We love you. You keep the joint hopping!
AAP, Nina and Merryway -
I'm am at deadline at work and am still dealing with a bug of some sort, so I can't write something right now.
Glad someone offered.
AAP and Merryway, I'll look forward to your posting when it shows up. I'll add my position on it and a little info on how it works in print media.
G'nite all.
NC said
Not to be disagreeable but there is a ton of difference. Your on air they are on TV. People don't see you except for the occasional appearances which I'm sure you make. A good friend of mine had to for WUBE (Cincinnati) country station. You are not required by your employer to dress your children in clothing to display as an advertisement. And even if they did your on air we would not see them. Your house would not be displayed as well.
Yes, there's big difference between radio and a popular reality show. My point NC resident was that regardless of radio or tv, when you do an endorsement, the client (advertiser) provides product and/or payment. Theirs is visible. Even though I'm on the radio,when I do an appearance, if Gap were one of my clients, I'd wear it if appropriate for the situation. That's just me, not a requirement...unless, that was in the endorsement deal, then I'd be wearing it.
That was about two years ago...events and people change. Actually Theresa that was said in an interview in NY on a recent talk show. No, actually, that was that same episode where she was shopping. I guess if they said it on a NY talk show then we just found a conistency, right? :) Their story from two years ago matched that of a NY talk show visit just recently. OMG, they told a truth! :)
NC, what is the big issue that you are really after?? You're not trying to make me see how things are misconstrued, I know they are. I'm the one who posted here on this forum (I'm not going back to find where, there's no time) that it is an edited show, of course there's misconstrued thoughts and ideas. That's what happens when people take things literally or avoid the fact that the show is edited.
By the way, I believe 90% of what is on Gwop are assumptions, extrapolations, mean-spirited writings from jealous, insecure people. A detrimental effect of the blogworld...the G kids will google their name and see all the hate directed to their parents and them that is spewed forth on that site alone (yes, there are others I'm sure, but that's the big main offener). Not to mention the twisted ideas and inaccuracies they post. If they are truly for the kids, they'd stop that immature and vile behavior and shut down for the good of the kids.
I'm done splittin' hairs with you NC.
Ok so.. there is a FAMILY GIFT, LAY AWAY, ON-LINE GIFTS, seems like more than the average middle class family is doing at the end of a crazy 2008!
Missthang, don't forget all the gifts that viewers will be sending the family for Christmas too.
Ok so.. there is a FAMILY GIFT, LAY AWAY, ON-LINE GIFTS, seems like more than the average middle class family is doing at the end of a crazy 2008!
Maybe, maybe not. Does it matter? I don't begrudge the Gosselins their success or how they choose to spend their money.
NC, what is the big issue that you are really after??
I am here only to discuss the show and threads Theresa.
I do completely understand and agree with you on advertising. I also understand that J&K have corporate obligations and possibly cannot choose clothing or drinks to be shown.
I however thought the podcast was a Q & A forum with three questions picked from at random. It was at best a commercial for Microsoft and a weak attempt by Jon explaining filming days which I already stated has been explained several times by them before.
You're not trying to make me see how things are misconstrued Actually if you read my entire post I was trying to be polite to you. You have misquoted what I said, by accident I'm sure, and said I used the word alot when in fact I said some.
I also agree GWOP is mean and abusive at times.
aap said:
Missthang, don't forget all the gifts that viewers will be sending the family for Christmas too.
The question I asked on the other thread is how do people know where to send these gifts? They want to remain under the radar and yet garner enough donations from year to year to need a U-Haul truck to transport those items.
Again I have upset some here and maybe I haven't, I hope.
But I ask everyone to do me one favor. Go check out the Gosselin website. After many of you cryed your eyes out over the St. Jude episode; my wife left the room when she saw Ellen. There is not ONE word mentioned in all of that website about those children or that visit. Not a single picture posted nor a reference or a link or an address to send the St. Judes children cards, letters or gifts. Not a word about us not donating to them but finding another charity to support in their name.
So as unfair as alot of comments about them seems to be their website says much more. It's a great place to buy their book.
http://www.sixgosselins.com/index.html
Nc resident, On the Gosselin's personal website, the front page shows they are supporting Pediatric Cancer Research. That's been on their page since they updated their site a few months ago.
If you go to the TLC website and click on J&K under the listing of tv shows, there is a link to learn more and donate to St. Judes.
NC Resident,
Great job on the html codes! :)
You have pointed out various ways the Gosselins have accumulated material possessions. These are what I can come up with, some you have mentioned, maybe some not:
1. neighbors, friends, church members, and complete strangers interested in the news of sextuplets donating items when they were in need, before their TV success (address available on website if needed.)
2. love offerings at speaking engagements
3. speaking engagement fees
4. $$$ from the sale of items to people attending the speaking engagements (photos of children, photo with Jon or Kate)
5. one-day trips and more expensive vacations, services (i. e. hair transplant), goods (organic beef?) received in payment for a exposure on their show
6. goods received as payment for actual commercial endorsement within the show (V-Tech, Tales of Despereaux) and in interviews outside of the show (new computer)
7. money received from the show and all the sales related to that ($$$ per episode, $$$ for syndication/video sales)
8. money from the book
9. money from outside commercial endorsements that may or may not be on the show (that brown-bag lunch thing, K-Mart, now the Internet thing I think Jon was talking about)
10. Goods and services that are perks the show, but don't seem to be there for commercial exposure: craft services, Jenny, those photos on the dining room walls, maybe the new house and the new gate to the house?
11. Stuff that fans send them 9address on their website, I'm not sure the new address is there?)
Did I get that all right?
Can anyone think of anymore?
NC Res, do you have a problem with some of these or all of these?
A small thing I know but Jon's use of "misnomer" is not correct. It is a word used to describe an incorrect or unsuitable name.
NC Resident,
You wrote,
But I ask everyone to do me one favor. Go check out the Gosselin website. After many of you cryed your eyes out over the St. Jude episode; my wife left the room when she saw Ellen. There is not ONE word mentioned in all of that website about those children or that visit. Not a single picture posted nor a reference or a link or an address to send the St. Judes children cards, letters or gifts. Not a word about us not donating to them but finding another charity to support in their name.
I am trying to understand you, not criticize you, so here is how I read this, and please correct me if I am wrong:
If the Gosselins had done what you hoped they would here, the link, the information about St. Jude's, asking people not to donate to them, that would be fabulous.
I think if you and your family were in their position, you would use your fame to help St. Jude's even more by promoting it on your website. You'd feel really uncomfortable receiving gifts from strangers for your own kids, when St. Jude's accepts toys for the children there.
Jon and Kate have been in a position where they were worried about finances. Now that they are no longer in that position, their accumulation of material things and services on their show looks a little greedy and crass?
They should be doing so much more, not just to "give back," but also to "stop taking so much."
I have "guessed" at your feelings and put words in your mouth to try to understand your position. Am I right about any of this or wrong about any of this?
(I hope you write in soon.)
Fiona--
The Millionaire Next Door might be a good read for you.
The presumption that when folks have money, they throw all common sense to the wind and spend money like water is silly.
The large percentage of well off folks tend to continue to watch their pennies so that they will remain well off and not broke.
Their budget line items may be larger, but that doesn't mean that they don't try to keep as much money as they can.
Dave Ramsey is a good read and listen to as well.
Folks carrying Coach purses driveing their leased Lexus'--typically aren't as in the money as they would like you to believe.
Paid endorsement or not, there are laws that prevent a celebrity from lying about using a product. (Fuzzy on the terminology).
Like Sarah Jessica Parker and the hair coloring product. I have no doubt she is using over the counter Garnier for her hair. Of course it is being applied by a very highly paid colorist to make sure she gets her desired color and such. But she indeed is using the OTC product.
Is Kate using layaway--probably. But that doesn't mean diddly.
Layaway and coupons are not features reserved for the low income class.
Harping on their wealth and using that as your evidence that they couldn't possibly be doing those things is pre-posterous.
Am I naive to believe that Kate limited her budget to eight $25 toys. Heck know.
They probably could spend $1000.
The point is who cares.
Her income doesn't automatically exclude her desire to save money.
Granted--without the endorsement would she use layaway--probably not. I myself am not a fan of K-mart and our income is but a fraction of Kate.
I've used layaway once in my life.
Layaway is also beneficial for hiding Christmas gifts regardless of budgetary abilities to otherwise do without layaway.
This is to say--you are entitled to your opinion, I just personally find your arguments weak based on much research in finance and those who keep their money and those who can't figure out why they run out of it all the time.
Really check into that first book. It may or may not open your eyes, but at least you will have evidence that yes--folks with money do tend to pinch their pennies so that they can keep more of it.
nc resident -
So you believe that the Gs should have posted a link on their personal website re: how to donate to St. Jude's Hospital.
They didn't and now his confirms a previously held belief that you had that they are . . . what . . . I'm not sure.
Episode on St. Jude's Hospital + No mention on personal website = ?
Please, enlighten us . . .
"I wasn't paying super close attention as I listened to these podcasts, but when they discuss that the film crew is there for three days, was he implying that they film in their home for three days, or three days overall, no matter the location?"
I have presumed that aside from vacations (disney, hawaii, utah, etc) that this was each week period.
For vacations, since those are special and documenting an experience, I have presumed that the taping schedule was much more relaxed.
And using Disney as an example, it is odd that they only showed footage of the trip there, arrival day, the one day at MK and departure day.
They were physically at Disney for 5 days and it would be a waste of resources to not show footage of any of the other 4 days of the trip. I presume that these had to have been off days b/c there is no financial explanation of why that footage would have ended up on the cutting room floor. It just doesn't fit production logic. (tv prod degree here!)
For hawaii--weren't they there for 2 weeks? I'm not sure, I didn't watch the entire episodes--but what they showed was very specific and would not have included filming each and every day of the trip. So again, logic prevails that they must have had off days b/c again, why waste the crews time to only drop several days on the floor.
But I wasn't there--this is just based on what I see and while I am not convince they adhere to the same shooting schedule on vacation due to what they do end up showing on tv b/c it translates into more than 3 days. (i.e. even disney--they showed 2 days of travel, 1 day at MK and departure day which was all in 7 day period and comes to 4 days).
But again, I presume the schedule he speaks of is in regard to their day to day life and as regular families often deviate from the norm when they go on vacation, the same could be true for the Gosselins when it comes to filming.
A Mom-ynous said...
Like Sarah Jessica Parker and the hair coloring product. I have no doubt she is using over the counter Garnier for her hair. Of course it is being applied by a very highly paid colorist to make sure she gets her desired color and such. But she indeed is using the OTC product.
I don't believe that SJP uses anything but high end salon products.
I do remember years ago in Lynn Redgrave's autobiography she was already using Weight Watchers when they contacted her to be a spokesperson. While making the agreement, it was something to the affect “we'd like you to try some”. She wasn't going to be required to do the diet and eat the food.
Re the crew on the vacations. I don't remember them saying anything about HI. But I'm pretty sure I remember when they were in NC on the beach 4th/July episode, that Kate said they had a week with the crew and a week by themselves.
A Mom-ynous said...
Like Sarah Jessica Parker and the hair coloring product. I have no doubt she is using over the counter Garnier for her hair. Of course it is being applied by a very highly paid colorist to make sure she gets her desired color and such. But she indeed is using the OTC product.
I don't believe that SJP uses anything but exclusive high end salon products.
I do remember years ago in Lynn Redgrave's autobiography she was already using Weight Watchers when they contacted her to be a spokesperson. While making the agreement, it was something to the affect “we'd like you to try some”. She wasn't going to be required to do the diet and eat the food.
Re the crew on the vacations. I don't remember them saying anything about HI. But I'm pretty sure I remember when they were in NC on the beach 4th/July episode, that Kate said they had a week with the crew and a week by themselves.
Anya said...
Rufus, is there any chance you have a link to the article you referenced?
The link to the article (which perhaps is not the correct word) is http://www.realityblurred.com/realitytv/archives/the_biggest_loser_6/2008_Dec_16_product_placement
Que said...
I've missed the El Loco Pollo placements on Flipping out.
Funny you say that Que because the last line of the "article" says, "Number three was El Pollo Loco on Flipping Out, which was so effective and well-integrated I had no idea it was product placement, I just assumed Jeff Lewis and company had lunch there."
Ok so.. there is a FAMILY GIFT, LAY AWAY, ON-LINE GIFTS, seems like more than the average middle class family is doing at the end of a crazy 2008!
Maybe, maybe not. Does it matter? I don't begrudge the Gosselins their success or how they choose to spend their money.
December 18, 2008 10:21 PM
------
I don't begrude their success or money either...I do have a little problem with how they acheived it which I don't think was all together honest.
However, I certainly don't think they are the only ones who achieve financial security dishonestly, white lying, or telling half truths.
I just don't take everything I see as %100 truth and good intention.
Nc resident said...
Your quote:If you believe a lot of what Jon and Kate say are white lies, then so be it
I want you to see how things from post to post get misconstrued. I can almost quarantee that someone will see your post and not even look at my post, and make the assumption I said alot.
I was referring to the overall picking apart of yours of Jon and Kate (your post of Dec 18th, 108pm) , thus the words "a lot".
NC, I like you alot! I hope you don't think I'm picking on you, because I'm not. I just think differently than you.
Mom-ynous -
I was the poster who brought up The Millionaire Next Door on a previous topic - it's a great book, and a wonderful way to show what can happen when you apply yourself and live within your means.
However, I have to say that I don't believe Jon and Kate fit the profile of the millionaires listed in the book. #1 - All of the people in the book work. Not that Jon and Kate aren't working now, but what are their future employment plans? A major point in the book is that wealthy people own their own company, and I don't see Jon and Kate preparing themselves for post show employment other than being a professional "spokesperson" which may or may not pan out. #2 - Millionaires tend to be conservative when buying their houses, tending to underbuy vs. picking a larger house. The house that the Gosselins reportly have chosen is lovely, but the larger the house the higher the upkeep. Again, when the show's over, will have the Gosselin's be able to replace that salary with one that will allow them to maintain that? In other words, can a nurse and a lower level IT tech afford it? (I'm guessing on Jon's level based on how many years he's been in the field - I'm guessing 3 to 4 years, plus if he goes back he'll need to have some education to be up to speed.) I'm sure there are more, but those ae the ones I remember off the top of my head.
In terms of using coupons, I would like to know what Jon and Kate use their coupons on. Because as someone who tries to buy organic myself, I really don't find all that many. Trader Joes mainly uses their own in house products (which is why their costs are lower) and Whole Foods carries brands that I usually don't see coupons for. So, I'm guessing that Kate clips coupons for paper plate (unless she chooses more green plates which again, haven't seen coupons for), soap, tooth paste, etc. which does save money but probably not the savings you would think because generally the bulk of the spending goes towards groceries. So when Kate says she clips coupons, I think, technically I'm sure it's true on a few ideas but really I think she's just paying lip service to create a "look what a thrify mom I am" spokesperson image.
In terms of layaway, I'm sure she might have a few toys in layaway as part of being a Kmart spokesperson, but if Kmart wasn't paying her she wouldn't be using it. First, look at the gifts the kids received last year (that's just go with the theory that these are the only Christmas gifts they received, though I don't believe that is true.) The only toys I really remember were the religious action figures, which generally you don't find at Kmart. I believe the other toys were along that line, but to be honest I'm not 100% sure. 2nd) Their previous big "let's go Christmas shopping" episode was done at Toys R Us, which does not offer layaway. So those are 2 years where we can rule out using Kmart layaway for Christmas.
Merryway -
I have to agree with Mom-ynous about SJP. I'm sure it is stated in her contract that she must use the product, or face being sued. (didn't this just happen to Charlize Theron (sp?) However, I'm sure a high end professional applies the product to ensure everything turns out ok.
nc resident -
I have had some conversations with someone who has sent Kate a gift. She originally contacted her through the email adress on their website.
I think people with old money vs. new money are usually a little different.
Is Kate using layaway--probably. But that doesn't mean diddly. If I believe what everyone else has said in the advertsing industry on this blog; then that statement really cannot be true. More likely than not Kate is being compensated by KMart for her lawaway spot. Then we could assume that she is either being paid or she is being compted with products. That is fine then. Your comment about advertising I remember. Joe Namath was advertising womens panty hose yeah I'm that old and it caused a stir.
Guinevere i wanted to take a moment to offer you an apology. My lack of html skills made my posts almost impossible to read. I understand now, even though I took issue with that earlier, why you bold or italic the other posters comments to show:
Joe said:
here is my response
I was wrong and I apologize.
Aap, that was interesting about Theron, I like her work and checked it out. I can't imagine a life where you are paid to where jewels.
http://www.observer.com/2008/style/charlize
There are so many different types of ads with different regulations. I guess I wouldn't want to even begin to decipher it all. I know street actors who did local one-time pay tv commercials and that's it.
Regarding the coupons, I think you'd be surprise by how much you can save on dry-goods by clipping coupons. But, the big box stores don't take them.
People do need to be allowed to speak in general terms. Kate saying she has always clipped coupons, well, she may have done it with her mom as a little girl. As far as being thrifty, I bet being a pastor's daughter she was raised in this manner. It could go either way. But these are ads and promotions and should be taken as such. IMO
Nc res as far as Jon's statement that he doesn't read hate email. Well, of course he has to read some to delete and he's aware of it. As time allows and in general terms, you say “you don't read it” meaning: you don't pay it any mind, you don't waste your time reading it through, etc. That's a funny flashback to Joe Namath in pantyhose! :)
That's a funny flashback to Joe Namath in pantyhose!
If I am correct did that get the commercial endorsement laws changed?
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/guides/endorse.htm
I would think after reading this from the FTC website, Kate uses Layaway:)
Episode on St. Jude's Hospital + No mention on personal website = ?
Why would the Gosselins not mention anything about this visit. Not in the prayer list, inspirational stories or any link to TLC to see pictures. Even saying hey be sure to watch the show on Monday night. Not a word.
Someone mentioned the pediatric cancer charity if you read the site they donate proceeds from the website to that group.
Thanks for visiting...so many have helped us in the past and we want to help others in need. We will be donating a portion of the proceeds from the website to families in need and charity organizations (our cause of choice? Pediatric cancer research - www.pcfusa.org).
Thanks for being a part by visiting our site!
You asked what I think this equals. Reluctantly I think they are trying to set us up for the new house episode. Kate has mentioned a number of times that it will be seen or a part of an upcoming episode. This was done on Little People when Matt went to Iraq and Amy ran up the stairs the remodel appears to have been done. But I suspect they caught some flax to so they changed the order in which the episodes were seen. JMO
Good link, Indianprincess.
That really should put to rest the speculation about whether Kate uses K-Mart layaway.
nc resident you asked:
Why would the Gosselins not mention anything about this visit. Not in the prayer list, inspirational stories or any link to TLC to see pictures. Even saying hey be sure to watch the show on Monday night. Not a word
Well, if you look at their website closely you will see that there is not specific mention of any of their episodes. Them not mentioning this episode is no different then them not mentioning the episode in which they held the tag sale for the pediatric cancer research charity.
They mention their show, but I do not think that they even have a link to the TLC website which publicizes the show.
If you've followed this saga for any length of time, you know that despite Jon being an IT person they do not regularly update their website(s).
You draw a conclusion that just can't be made when you wrote:
Reluctantly I think they are trying to set us up for the new house episode.
I think that a more likely explanation is that TLC prohibits it or that they just don't update their wesbite regularly.
But really, so what if this is leading up to the episode that reveals their new house. What conclusion are you making then?
"(our cause of choice? Pediatric cancer research - www.pcfusa.org)."
While it's true they didn't mention the yard sale episode on their web site, they certainly mentioned their "cause of choice" which was the purpose of the yard sale. If they had time to update the web site to make sure their fans know how important this "cause" is to the family, why wouldn't the same effort be made for St. Jude's?
It would be a fair assumption on the part of the audience that the work this organization does must be so meaningful to the Gosselins that they would take the entire family on a trip to another state to teach the children about "giving back" at this facility. I don't think it's implausible to expect at least a simple mention, not an episode description, on their web site with a link to St. Jude's, as they did for pcfusa.
spanglish -
I'm not trying to be difficult, but what conclusion are you (and nc resident) making?
The Gs did not put St. Jude's on their website so therefore . . . .
Merryway-
I agree, it's a nice life if you can get it.
I think the issue with Kate is that she only brought the coupon clipping when she is a spokesperson for P&G, which uses coupons as a form of advertising, and she's using layaway because she's a spokesperson for Kmart. So it appears that Kate will say she does "blank" if the price is right, which to me doesn't come across as credible or believable.
NC Res, do you have a problem with some of these or all of these?
Actually as difficult as it may be for some people here to believe, none of it but, I feel this way.
Anything donated was done so because the Gosselins expressed a dire need and people kindly responded. No problem with that!
I take issue with Kates' sense of entitlement, and her comments that society owed her.
I also came to the conclusion based on residents comments on newspaper articles that appeared in the Reading Eagle, and her book that at sometime they no longer had a need, at least for what was being donated. Quinevere had an excellent answer in another post about this and actually I agree. I do think alot of the negative opinion about them stems from this. Even though I see her point about that then, the donations still continue. They admit having a yard sale each year. This year a U-haul truck full. Their website back then was regularly updated and never once said hey we have enough, it still does not. Why not include a comment about not donating to them and sending to others? I also feel that they received much of what they did, based on the comments they made that anything donated would be donated to another needy family. That is where they were less than honest. You would have to agree that if the show is their life that we have seen no evidence of J&K giving back so to speak until this year. In the scheme of things are they required to donate to anything ABSOLUTELY NOT, but I see this as being less than genuine. I also feel that there is a direct correlation in the hiring of a PR firm and these changes. That was 3.5 to 4 yrs ago so I'll let that rest.
I did want to clarify the organic cow issue even though it really doesn't matter who paid. It has been said that I was irresponsible in spreading lies from another site. I found the web archieve (webcrawer) from a forum. I say what follows only to defend my position on my conclusion not as a statement about J&K. Everytime we see some product listed or named it has been one of the following. A praise that someone donated that item, or a request for that as a need. Why am I to assume out of the numerous things listed on their site this single item was purchased? I honestly didnt even know her and Jodi split the meat. But however it was obtained they either paid for it or the website promoting it paid for it, product advertising either way is fine with me.
If I can I'd like to say I found all these things simply searching for the Gosselin website. I saw that disclaimer that was quickly removed and began to wonder what the heck? I looked down and saw tons of other links, on the search engine page. So had I not looked at these sites or links I'd would still be a happy viewer. I did love the show and have watched from the beginning.
The Gs did not put St. Jude's on their website so therefore . . . .
it was a K mart, Gymboree, commercial required of J&K there spokeperson that benefited an excellent charity, and when they the director said "CUT" its been forgotten. I know that sounds callous Linda is that what you wanted me to say?
"spanglish - I'm not trying to be difficult, but what conclusion are you (and nc resident) making?"
I wouldn't presume to speak for ncresident, but I've stated my conclusion, i.e.: "I don't think it's implausible to expect at least a simple mention, not an episode description, on their web site with a link to St. Jude's, as they did for pcfusa."
NC, I like you alot! I hope you don't think I'm picking on you, because I'm not. I just think differently than you. I sincerely thank you for that, and I feel the same. I always hope that we and anyone else here can agree to disagree in the spirit of debate, which this site is about.
Saint, Im so long winded I wanted to do two seperate posts and I wasn't ignoring you I just wanted make sure what I said makes sense.
I posted a youtube link for the Fox and Friends interview. Kate is talking about coupons and lawaway and she says, I've once said before that my job is cutting coupons because Jon works and that is continued. A lie well no but TLC had just released a statement regarding Paul Petersons' comments I think you might have saw that, condensed Kate is a SAHM. The irony is Kate had released a statement in the paper shortly after this interview about them both staying at home. It's actually a rather good point she makes and I applaud her for that. Now my points and concerns of them deal with public perception.
How does J&K look to the average TV viewer that doesn't get involved in the internet blogs.
Jon works, Kate is a SAHM they have 8 lovely children. She uses layaway to spread out the payments and cuts coupons, heres where she has to dances. Maybe while Jon is at work?While she never says he is working away from home, she doesn't say what really is happening. Not to mention listen at 2:49 where one of the older girls says what appears to be "we what" and then they get a look from Kate.
Whether it is commercialized or not they want the average viewer to think they still have a need, IMO. This neediness IMO has been an ongoing theme for these two. They want us to feel they are still needy as some sense of entitlement for the 8 children. Their official website, the only place to get the real story about them, says no different.
Why do they want to be seen that way?
Without this perception of need her commercials would not be believable. Tom & Katie Cruise using layaway doesnt sell, but neither does J&K in a 1.3 million mansion yet to be seen by the average TV viewer seperate from the internet. It is possible, I know wealthy people that shop at Goodwill, but it doesn't sell.
Without the perception of need the donations sent to them and the kids would stop to some extent.
In summation my concern over them is what they want, or how they want us to think about them, that being middle class, still in some need. They have done nothing to disspell that conception.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LEsywq3BzOw
I wouldn't presume to speak for ncresident, but I've stated my conclusion, i.e.: "I don't think it's implausible to expect at least a simple mention, not an episode description, on their web site with a link to St. Jude's, as they did for pcfusa."
Thats actually all I was trying to say thank you.
With the holidays approaching and the economy in trouble, most of us are preparing to spend less this season. Jon has recently teamed up with Microsoft (it was Microsoft who arranged our interview) to share ideas and products for families to ease holiday budget concerns.
Since the topic of this thread is the Podcast this is taken from the site where it's found. That should tell everyone it's a commercial.
Doesn't almost every celebrity that appears on or in a talk shows, morning show, radio show and any other type of show or magazine article do so to promote something?
You've stated your expectation, which they didn't meet.
Although you didn't explicitly state this, your conclusion is that they weren't sinceresince they didn't make a specific mention of it on their website.
Okay. I don't draw the same conclusion as you and spanglish. Contrary to your statement that they updated their website regularly, I did not see it that way. Despite J being in IT, I thought that they were notoriously lax in updating their site and I think that this is an equally plausible explanation for the lack of mention on it on their website. I also think that it is an equally plausible explanation that their contract does not permit it.
But what does this have to do in your opinion to the build up to the reveal on their new house?
"Although you didn't explicitly state this, your conclusion is that they weren't sincere since they didn't make a specific mention of it on their website."
It seems I didn't provide the answer you wanted, so you chose to tell me what I meant to say. Just to be clear, my conclusion was nothing more than what I actually stated.
spanglish,
I apologize. Perhaps it is that I'm not understanding your point and that the internet impedes effective communication.
It seems to me that you are stating your expectation when you say this:
"I don't think it's implausible to expect at least a simple mention, not an episode description, on their web site with a link to St. Jude's, as they did for pcfusa."
So what is the conclusion that you draw? You expect them to mention this on their website which they did not. That is an expectation that they did not meet.
Are you irritated? Do you believe that they are not sincere in their interest in St. Jude? What is it that ticks you off so much about this omission from their website.
Indian Princess -
Thanks for the link to the FTC Guidelines for endorsements.
I think that with the requirement that the endorser is an actual user of the product we can assume that the Gs use layaway.
I have a sibling who is married to a very wealthy business executive. She does not need to clip coupons or watch her budget, but we were raised to do all those things because we were from a big family with not a lot of money.
Old habits die hard. She grocery shops with her coupon caddy and goes to the clearance rack at Target for her kids and her clothing. She isn't cheap, but she is still thrifty. That is a reflection of our upbringing.
Jon got a free laptop and what's the big deal if he has to rave about how great it is? ... I'm going to rave of the free Dell laptop I was given from my hubby's work because of the field he's in. It's great by the way :) I don't understand what's the big deal with endorsements. It's not like Jon and Kate started this trend!!!
I think that with the requirement that the endorser is an actual user of the product we can assume that the Gs use layaway.
Wouldn't the actual product be shopping at Kmart, which was convenient covered by the St. Jude episode? Sorry for being cheeky - couldn't resist.
My hubby thinks I need a new hobby but whatever.. he made a good point and I would like to share it. Jon plugs Sony and Live.com and gets free merchandise and Kate is a spokesperson for stores like plugging layaway for kmart which she has to buy stuff to put away for later...who's smart? Jon of course: he gets free(bleep). lol
I don't understand what's the big deal with endorsements.
Indian Princess, let me summarize. 1) it has taken an interesting show and turned it into a 30 min infomercial, more about selling a place or activity they are doing than about the family. And since Jon and Kate are bad actors, sometimes it's a very boring infomercial. I want the show I liked back! 2) People here who don't find the product placement annoying and accept Jon and Kate's inconsistencies, can't seem to understand why it drives other people crazy that some of the things Kate says seems to be bought and paid for by sponsors. I don't know, and have my doubts, that the 2 sides will ever meet.
It's not like Jon and Kate started this trend!!! For a continuous show based on 1 family - I'd say Jon and Kate have taken it to a new level. Kate might as well wear a shirt that says "this space for rent."
Rufus - thanks for adding that information regarding Flipping out - now that I have read that, I do recall them mentioning that they were going to order lunch from there. Very interesting!
Indianprincess, thanks so much for that link. I always wondered about that stuff.
To me it is obvious that if they put a link on their website to St. Judes it would be like taking away from the charity that they had already personally chosen to support. It would almost be rude. Kate has reported about interaction with children who have cancer. They also have a couple of pages used for personal stories of others and where donations can be made. None of this means they have forgotten about St. Judes or happy to be participating. The yard sale may have been something Kate wanted to do (prob for the move) and so that part of their life was filmed. The St. Judes episode was definitely a joint corporate venture as a Holiday Episode in support of St. Judes.
Also, I don't know of any celebrities who say “don't send me stuff”. Fans will do it any way and enjoy it. That's what some fans do.
Kate might as well wear a shirt that says "this space for rent."
Even I thought that was funny!
Que: thanks for the insight. So they have to plug some merchandise I don't see it such a big deal.
I will have to say this about product placements. Now I see it all the time on TV shows and movies. Now I'm starting to think I really never liked Diet Pepsi but drink it because I see it in a lot of movies,tv etc... hum..now I'm thinking :)
I said: None of this means they have forgotten about St. Judes or happy to be participating.
oops, I meant to say:
None of this means they have forgotten about St. Judes or not happy to be participating.
Thanks Linda - I thought it was pretty funny myself, but sometimes I am the only one laughing at my jokes. Nice to know it was appreciated :-).
Indian Princess - With the way our country is right now, this is such a small thing. We just have a difference of opinion that causes us to view things on the show on the opposite ends of the spectrum.
However, I would like to ask - do you think the show overall has gotten better?
Que said...
And since Jon and Kate are bad actors, sometimes it's a very boring infomercial.
Well, I agree with that. I don't think they are that great at it either. When I watch the show, it makes for an awkward piece in the show.
However, just because I don't LIKE the endorsements, doesn't mean I think they are wrong on some level. Just annoying.
My objection to the show is based on them showing too much of the children's private lives. It's been reduced a lot this season (IMO,) in part b/c of these annoying endorsements and trips/staged activities, so I accept them for what they are.
Saint -
I don't think they are wrong for choosing to do the endorsements, just that it makes for a bad show IMHO. Though I understand your point about the kids private life.
However, I would like to ask - do you think the show overall has gotten better?
Well I would have to say it's about the same for me. I watch a show I find entertaining. I like to discuss the show with people who have different opinions. I don't find nothing wrong with how Jon and kate decide for there family as in doing the show and if I did I wouldn't be going to sites to talk about my dislikes. When the show is done, I'll move on and if it's starting to bore to me to death I'll stop watching and more onto something else of interest. JMO
We just have a difference of opinion that causes us to view things on the show on the opposite ends of the spectrum.
Nothing wrong with this and if everyone had the same opinions and views..how boring would that be!
Indian Princess -
There are people who I care very much for who enjoy watching the show. See, I can disagree with the direction the show is going and still have a good reason to watch. I don't expect you to understand that.
It was just a question. If my discussing what I dislike about the show, please feel free to skip over my posts.
que: the same here and I don't expect for you to understand mine :) I know you asked a question and I answered you. Like I said..because I don't go and chat about shows I dislike doesn't mean no one else can. You have every right to your opinion and I can choose to not agree with them..
Que, just an FYI, did you know that Kate was using coupons on an earlier show? I think it was second season. The kids are napping, Kate only had 3 hours to get all the shopping done and the viewers go with her. She has her coupons all sorted and organized and showed how much she saved, says she talks to Jon about it and wallah!! her timing is perfect and she makes it back it right on time.
Or: Voilà, she's back just in time. I knew that didn't look right. I have been doing seasonal work in a place that “helps Santa out with what the elves can't make”, as my little one says. I think it's affecting me more than I thought.
Besides the product placement (that was an interesting list Rufus), the in-show commercials have been Tonka cars, Rose Petal Cottage, Wii, and Vtech computer game, that I can recall. I don't really care for the trend either in the normal episodes. I'm wondering if it will continue or be so much in the next season.
indianprincess said...
My hubby thinks I need a new hobby but whatever.. he made a good point and I would like to share it. Jon plugs Sony and Live.com and gets free merchandise and Kate is a spokesperson for stores like plugging layaway for kmart which she has to buy stuff to put away for later...who's smart? Jon of course: he gets free(bleep). lol
Yeah, well, I can see your husband's point! Hopefully he shares!
December 20, 2008 6:01 PM
Kate might as well wear a shirt that says "this space for rent."
It is amusing, but also true. I do see Kate as someone who is not going to turn down even one opportunity if it helps secure her family's financial future. In that sense, I find her very relatable. If I were in her shoes, I would probably do the same - strike when the irons hot. To me, this is NOT the behavior of a diva, but someone who is willing to do what it takes to make the best life possible for her family.
I understand not everyone will agree with the methods, but to me it is understandable....
Somewhere I remember writing that those who think Kate used layaway at Kmart must think Florence Henderson danced around her kitchen singing about Wesson oil. So sorry everyone, I had no idea that they actually had to use the product as shown in the link Indianprincess posted. Since $s are the bottom line, I'm just naturally distrusting of any ads. Never have I thought that any of the celebrity models or actresses have used whatever over-the-counter product they were endorsing, not even in the ad itself.
I don't have a problem with J&K doing endorsements, that's the way the business is and it's good work. To me, it's no different than any other celebrity telling me how great something is.
Merryway that law was adopted in May 1975 and amended in 1980 and it is rather involved.
The longtime spokeswoman for Wesson cooking oil was actress Florence Henderson, who coined the term "Wessonality" in her advertisements. She would appear in television commercials for Wesson from 1976 until 1996.
Merryway, I haven't seen that episode. Thanks for letting me know, I'll keep an eye out for it in one of the marathons.
Anya, I agree with your assessment of Kate. At the same time though, I can't help but think that the immediate financial gains are blinding Jon and Kate to some potential long term issues, whether it's the public overdosing on Jon and Kate promoting everything (leading to the general public's backlash to so much Jon and Kate) or having so much of their kids' private lives available for public consumption.
"It seems to me that you are stating your expectation …. You expect them to mention this on their website…"
I can understand that it may seem I'm stating a my expectation, but in fact I was speaking in general terms, not that it was my personal expectation. Perhaps for clarity I should have said, "it's not unreasonable to expect…" I'm not irritated or ticked off; the show doesn't provoke that level of emotion for me. They may be sincere about their interest in St. Jude's: Kate was very clear about her feelings, saying "I couldn't get [kids with cancer] out of my mind…", "I follow a lot of kids with cancer…", "Pediatric cancer hits very, very close to home (because she has 8 healthy children)…" OTOH, Kate is a spokesperson for Kmart, which happens to support St. Jude, so the "sincerity" may be job-driven.
Que and Anya,
I also agree with what you've been saying about Kate and endorsements. I think she is not only striking while the iron is hot, but doing as much as she can, as fast as she can, to get it all over with. I don't blame her either. I doubt I'd enjoy her job, and I think she works hard at it.
And Que, I definitely agree with this: "I can't help but think that the immediate financial gains are blinding Jon and Kate to some potential long term issues..."
I don't think doing this many episodes was a wise decision for this reason. That doesn't mean I hate them or think they are "exploiting" the kids or are horrible parents. I don't think the kids are necessarily going to have this horrible adulthood either. There have been very definite benefits to doing the show that will be long-lasting. So maybe I am wrong but, I think, on balance, it's a mistake.
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