It is a really good commentary that covers a lot of ground,
@equity78 - thank you for sharing.
Here are my thoughts on some of the issues. While I would not go so far as to say every domainer has a very valuable name in their portfolio, I totally agree that there are names in many portfolios that in someone else's hands might well sell for much more. Confidence, financial position, negotiation skill, etc. all matter.
I agree with your point that there is too much dependence on simplified, and sometimes outdated, 'rules'.
I am glad that you brought up the fragmentation of the domain community. It was one of the things that surprised me when I began to be active in domain investing. I had expected that social media, conference participants, NamePros, those who read and interact with blogs, the social, would be largely the same people, and there are definitely some in common, but also rather different groups. I think hearing many voices can help us grow and innovate. Approached one to one, almost everyone seems welcoming. I hope gradually barriers will break down.
With respect to the broader point re who to listen to, I disagree with the quote attributed to AD. In most fields, or some at least, emphasis is placed on the value of the idea, moreso than who say it. In fields like science, many good ideas (and yes huge number that turn out not to be good) come from relatively young scientists. Science would be in bad shape if only the elderly scientists spoke at conferences.
Thanks again,
Bob