"without some sort of filter, we'd all be investing time with chit chat and unproductive conversations all around us."

completely agree.

"I don't think that you should ignore people in an open discussion especially if you're asking them for feedback/input about XYZ product and then blatantly talk to your buddy from "wherever" with total disregard for the other person providing you with feedback/input."

I can't speak for others but I do this from time to time, not because I'm being rude but that's how my mind works (a bit ADDish). Forgetting about discussions (because I am caught up in something else), I don't know what I would do without a virtual assistant.

My kids have taught me a valuable lesson, if its important enough for you keep bringing it up.