We'll continue to see more and more brands integrate social causes, charitable components and environmental issues as underlying themes to their campaigns and messaging. Humans connect with humans after all, and brands are using this as a point of connection to engage with their audience, especially charity-minded Generation Y.

Universities want to recruit the students that they believe will best represent the university while in school and beyond. Students with a robust social media presence and clearly defined personal brand stand to become only more influential.

Just as we teach our children how to ride a bike, we need to teach them how to navigate social media and make the right moves that will help them. The physical world is similar to the virtual world in many cases. It's about being aware. We can prevent many debacles if we're educated.

Ask forgiveness, not permission. But make sure you bring your results with you.

You're more likely to drown in the sea of sameness than get eaten by a shark while navigating new waters.

I was with Shaq at his home the day he retired. It was innovative for him to become the media and announce via social media that he was retiring.

Social media is the ultimate equalizer. It gives a voice and a platform to anyone willing to engage.