Brands and Bloggers

I'm attending the Brands and Bloggers Summit in Chicago today. I'm learning a different side of blogging. I've been in this space for years, but I've never really learned what the blogging and brand experience is really about. As a journalist and professor, I realize this is a place that may seem a little unusual. But let's be honest. This is an economy where we need to be curious and look for ways to be able to pay for my kids dozens of activities and maybe save something once they get into college. Along with my nerd world, I advocate for kids and help parents advocate for their children on Born Just Right. I'm curious and interested in seeing how the brands and bloggers relationship works.

What do you think? Can journalists have side jobs where they have open and transparent relationships with brands?