Oh, golly gee wilikers, how can I walk past this one?
If you want to check out a bunch of boards at once, you can always go to
All of Em and view a recap of what's happening on the bigger ones (including X-Nations, of course).
I read bunches of boards, and actively particpate on a number of them. I have selected most of my sponsors and one of my hosts from the boards. I scan threads by subject, although I look at threads posted by individuals as well.
As far as are they productive or a waste of time, that depends on the day - actually, it depends on me.