Afleveringen

  • Let’s face it, talking to a camera is not something that comes naturally to anyone. And it can be daunting to look at that lens and come up with something coherent, energetic, and valuable to say once you hit record.

    But just like many things in the world of video, it’s a skill you can learn and this episode breaks down how to improve your on-camera presence.

    Joining the podcast is Meredith Marsh, an awesome video creator who helps people get better on camera and grow their audiences through her online courses and YouTube channel. She breaks down her top tips for looking, feeling, and speaking better on camera—whether you’re a YouTuber or creating corporate videos at work. We hear about her approach to editing and the BFF framework she uses to turn rough footage into high-value content that her audience loves.

    Learning points from the episode include:

    00:00 - 01:42 Introduction01:42 - 03:03 Meredith’s top tip for improving how you use video03:03 - 05:19 Why people struggle on camera 05:19 - 09:55 Where to start if you want to appear on camera 09:55 - 14:59 Meredith’s framework for making the editing process easier 14:59 - 17:10 Advice for those who are not confident on camera17:10 - 25:13 How to manage your energy when filming videos 25:13 - 29:00 Speed round questions29:00 - 30:00 Where to learn more and connect with Meredith30:00 - 30:32 Meredith’s final take30:32 - 31:16 Outro

    Important links and mentions:

    Connect with Meredith on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meredithpaynemarsh/Meredith’s Websites: http://meredithmarsh.co/ and http://vidpromom.com/Follow Meredith on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meredithmarsh.coSubscribe to Meredith's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@meredithmarsh
  • Let’s get those creative muscles working! The secret to great learning content is just as much about creativity in your messaging as the content itself. How you deliver your content is key to that information being absorbed and remembered, so don’t be afraid to get a little creative.

    In this episode, host Matt Pierce sits down with Tim Slade, Founder of The eLearning Designer’s Academy and renowned expert in visual communications. His top tip for creators using images or videos? Tap into your creativity. Remember when you were a kid and could dream up just about anything? Don’t lose sight of that! As adults, many of us lose the natural creativity and imagination we explored as kids, but Tim explains that we can tap into that again by trying something a bit different (and being okay if it doesn’t work out).

    Tim shares how he uses modern tools to bring his imagination to life and how he gets inspiration from just about anywhere he looks, from TV commercials to ads at airport kiosks. He explains why he approaches animation design like a theater production, seeing each little element as its own character telling a story.

    Tim offers some great insights into his processes, why he values simplicity, and how he gauges whether his work will be effective. We also talk about the elephant in the room… AI and its impact on learning design. Tim cautions us against over-reliance on AI and explains that human creativity is what will really set your design apart.

    Learning points from the episode include:

    00:00 - 00:23 Introduction00:23 - 01:55 Tim’s top tip for getting better at using images or video01:55 - 03:40 Why sometimes simple tools are the best way to bring your imagination to life 03:40 - 05:33 How Tim finds inspiration everywhere he looks05:33 - 07:17 Tim’s balanced method of using repeatable processes and new ideas 07:17 - 09:02 How to know when to stop – the signal vs. noise test 09:02 - 10:27 How to assess whether your work will be effective or not 10:27 - 12:41 The role of AI in learning design and why it’s no replacement for creativity 12:41 - 14:35 Tim’s advice on experimenting with new ideas 14:35 - 18:18 How to find the time to play with new ideas 18:18 - 21:35 Speed round questions 21:35 - 22:17 Tim’s final take22:17 - 23:11 Outro

    Important links and mentions:

    Connect with Tim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sladetim/The eLearning Designer's Academy: https://elearningacademy.io/Subscribe to The eLearning Designer's Academy YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2CE3YBPX53oeKVsiTbhX2w?sub_confirmation=1
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  • Did you know that humans process visual information 30 times faster than blinking? And that we’re far more likely to remember things we see than things we hear or read?

    In other words, there’s a good reason that marketing and educational content have become so visual-centric. Visual content is the very best way to get your audience to consume, understand, and retain your message. But how do we make sure we’re using visuals effectively?

    Joining this episode of The Visual Lounge is Nicky Pasquier, a marketer, YouTuber, and certified Canva whizz. She explores how to tie your visual content closely to your business and branding aims, and explains what brands often get wrong about visual content. We also hear about her process of using Canva and TechSmith tools to create consistently great imagery for her brand.

    Learning points from the episode include:

    00:00 - 02:34 Nicky’s top tip for using visuals effectively 02:34 - 03:48 Nicky’s advice for staying consistent with visual branding 03:48 - 06:16 Why businesses are still struggling with visual branding 06:16 - 07:53 How to find a balance between entertaining content and content that drives results07:53 - 09:27 How businesses can create more effective content 09:27 - 14:37 The role of emotion in images and videos 14:37 - 16:58 Common pitfalls for using images consistently16:58 - 18:20 The role of color in visuals 18:20 - 21:30 Advice for learning about the psychology of color21:30 - 23:09 How color fits into Nicky’s content23:09 - 24:50 Speed round questions28:38 - 29:52 How to connect with and learn more about Nicky’s work29:52 - 31:09 Nicky’s final take31:09 - 32:17 Outro

    Important links and mentions:

    Connect with Nicky on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickypasquierFollow Nicky on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicky.pasquierVisit Nicky's Website: https://www.nickypasquier.comSubscribe to Nicky's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NickyPasquier
  • What does it take to design a software certification program that remains relevant even when that software gets a fresh update? In this episode of The Visual Lounge, Jeff Batt, the Owner and Content Author of Learning Dojo, shares his journey to create Camtasia's certification program.

    Jeff talks about the challenges of maintaining a certification program and making sure videos can be easily updated after feedback and software tweaks. His method involves a modular approach to content, where videos are designed as independent modules rather than a linear sequence. This method allows for easier updates and additions without disrupting the entire training flow.

    While embarking on this project, Jeff learned the value of scripting videos, explaining how it not only helps ensure they’re concise but also makes it easier to update them so they’re relevant and valuable for learners.

    Learning points from the episode include:

    00:00 - 02:25 Introduction02:25 - 03:28 Jeff’s top tip for using images or video in your work03:28 - 07:28 Where to begin when creating a certification program07:28 - 10:20 Advice and guidelines for creating a certification program 10:20 - 14:02 What Jeff learned by working on the Camtasia program14:02 - 17:15 Processes to make sure you can replicate your work when updating videos17:15 - 19:40 Why Trello is Jeff’s secret weapon for staying organized 19:40 - 22:13 Jeff discusses the type of videos he was asked to create 22:13 - 25:23 How Camtasia helped the creation process25:23 - 31:30 How he helped to redesign the quizzing aspect of the program31:30 - 35:32 Speed round questions35:32 - 36:23 How to connect with Jeff36:23 - 38:02 Jeff’s final take 38:02 - 39:07 Outro

    Important links and mentions:

    Connect with Jeff on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffbatt/Follow Jeff on X: https://x.com/JeffBattLXDLearning Dojo: https://learningdojo.ninjaSubscribe to Learning Dojo’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@LearningDojoCamtasia: https://www.techsmith.com/camtasia/
  • How do you know if your video content is genuinely resonating with learners, or is it just another piece of corporate training that gets lost in a busy day?

    In this episode of The Visual Lounge, host Matt Pierce sits down with Richard Fleming, a seasoned filmmaker and learning designer for his company Sage Media, to dig into what truly makes effective content.

    Richard explores the need for videos to make an emotional impact to influence learning and decision-making and why understanding the feelings you want to evoke in your audience is crucial for learning design.

    Richard introduces the concept of the self-determination theory, highlighting the importance of fostering autonomy, competence, and relatedness in training design. He also talks about innovative ways to assess content effectiveness, including wearable technology that measures engagement through physiological responses like dopamine and oxytocin levels. Groundbreaking tech like this allows creators to gauge not just if learners are watching, but whether they are emotionally connected to the material.

    Learning points from the episode include:

    00:00 – 01:48 Introduction01:48 – 02:37 Richard’s top tip for using video in your work02:37 – 05:17 His advice for people hesitant about working with emotion in corporate spaces05:17 – 08:27 How do we know if our content is effective?08:27 – 11:05 How tech can measure interest and emotional reaction to content11:05 – 16:55 Richard explains the self-determination theory16:55 – 20:31 Why we need to give learners something to do20:31 – 30:01 Short or long videos – which works best in training content?30:01 – 34:45 Speed round questions34:45 – 36:40 What it was like working on a Super Bowl commercial36:40 – 38:00 Why Richard decided to pivot his career from marketing to training 38:00 – 39:07 How to connect with Richard39:07 – 41:09 Outro

    Important links and mentions:

    Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/visualstoryteller/Follow Richard on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/director.fleming/Visit Sage Media’s Website: https://sage.media/Subscribe to Sage Media’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@sagemedia/
  • Can AI help you make educational videos? In this episode of The Visual Lounge, host Matt Pierce sits down with AI and L&D expert Josh Cavalier, the Founder of JoshCavalier.ai, to explore how to effectively use AI.

    Josh is quick to point out that AI isn’t a replacement for our expertise and skills, but it can act as a handy partner to help you streamline your process. The key to getting the most out of AI is in your prompting approach, which Josh prefers to call “prompt design” rather than “prompt engineering.” He encourages anyone who wants to use AI to experiment with prompts and try to make them as detailed as possible to yield consistent results.

    We hear about his process and unique method for testing new AI tools, and the advice he has for people getting started with AI prompting. Whether you’re an L&D designer or content creator, Josh’s tips are a great starting point for experimenting with AI.

    Learning points from the episode include:

    00:00 - 00:59 Introduction00:59 - 02:42 Josh talks about his background in L&D02:42 - 04:33 How people can get started with AI04:33 - 06:30 Using AI to help with educational videos 06:30 - 07:44 How to vet results once you see some success 07:44 - 09:26 Scaling and repeatable work with AI09:26 - 11:48 Why he prefers the term prompt “design” over engineering11:48 - 13:06 How to experiment with prompting in everyday life13:06 - 14:00 Where to connect with Josh to learn more14:00 - 14:37 Outro

    Important links and mentions:

    Connect with Josh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshcavalier/Josh Cavalier's Website: https://www.joshcavalier.com/
  • Did you know that making your educational content more accessible can enhance the learning experience for everyone? In this episode of The Visual Lounge, Matt Pierce sits down with accessibility advocate and CEO of Build Capable, Sarah Mercier, to explore the world of accessible learning design.

    We hear about Sarah’s journey and insights on making educational content more accessible to all learners, when she realized just how important it is, and her tips for getting started with your own content.

    She discusses how accessibility isn't just about accommodating specific disabilities, but about removing barriers for everyone. Sarah provides practical tips for content creators, such as incorporating closed captions, transcripts, and audio descriptions into video production. She encourages a "progress over perfection" approach and suggests starting with small steps and continuously improving accessibility practices.

    Learning points from the episode include:

    00:00 - 01:28 Introduction01:28 - 07:20 Why is it important to get better at accessibility?07:20 - 12:50 How to make accessibility a part of your practice 12:50 - 16:10 Getting started with accessibility and dealing with feedback 16:10 - 17:08 How to find out more about Sarah and her resources17:08 - 17:32 Outro

    Important links and mentions:

    Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcmercier/Build Capable: https://buildcapable.com/
  • What is “practical video,” and will it become the future of instructional video creation? Practical video involves creating not just video, but also immersive experiences.

    Debbie Richards, Chief Technology Officer at Creative Interactive Ideas, sits down with Matt Pierce on The Visual Lounge to talk about the practical applications of video in instructional design and development.

    Recorded as part of the Learning DevCamp series, this conversation sheds light on how video can be a powerful tool beyond just creating tutorials or marketing content. We hear about Debbie’s experiences working on a VR project in Oklahoma, where she and her team used various video techniques to capture elements for an immersive learning environment. From recording ambient sounds to taking 360-degree footage, Debbie explains how these practical video applications help developers recreate realistic scenarios without physically being on-site. The episode also touches on the cost-effectiveness of using video for remote development work, especially in industries like oil and gas, where on-site visits can be tricky.

    Learning points from the episode include:

    00:00 - 00:57 Introduction00:57 - 03:52 What is practical video?03:52 - 07:10 Debbie’s advice for capturing practical video07:10 - 08:17 Making things realistic when capturing video08:17 - 09:38 Debbie shares an example of working with oil and gas companies 09:38 - 09:53 Outro

    Important links and mentions:

    Connect with Debbie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cre8iveii/Learning DevCamp: https://learningdevcamp.com/
  • Did you know that there are more AI-generated images now than there are photos in the entire history of photography? It’s a mind-blowing stat when you think about how fast things are moving!

    Join host Matt Pierce on The Visual Lounge as he sits down with Stella Lee, a seasoned expert in education technology at the Learning DevCamp. Together, they explore the importance of involving end users early in the ideation stage, the significance of a well-rounded strategy for learning and development, and the evolving role of video content in today's AI-driven landscape.

    Stella offers practical advice for leaders on setting realistic goals, understanding organizational culture, and navigating the challenges that come with implementing educational technology solutions. Whether you're a developer or an organizational leader, this conversation is packed with valuable insights you won't want to miss.

    Learning points from the episode include:

    00:00 - 00:15 Introduction00:15 - 01:34 Meet Stella Lee01:34 - 03:36 Understanding learning strategy03:36 - 05:16 Key considerations for leaders in learning strategy05:16 - 08:36 Challenges in implementing learning strategies08:36 - 12:07 The role of video in learning and development12:07 - 13:28 The impact of AI on video and learning13:28 - 13:48 How to connect with Stella13:48 - 14:24 Conclusion and final thoughts

    Important links and mentions:

    Connect with Stella on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stellal/Learning DevCamp: https://learningdevcamp.com/
  • Creating videos can be a lengthy process with many tools and people involved. But when the pandemic hit, TorranceLearning had to adapt fast and figure out a way to make high-quality videos without having a team in the studio all at once.

    In this episode of The Visual Lounge, we sit down with Megan Torrance, CEO of TorranceLearning, to explore how she's revolutionized video production for her small business. Megan shares her journey of adapting to the challenges posed by the pandemic, transforming her video setup into a one-person operation that's both efficient and versatile.

    Megan dives into the nitty-gritty of her streamlined process, from using shot lists to expedite editing to leveraging review tools for collaborative work. She explains how this newfound efficiency has dramatically improved their turnaround time, allowing them to update course content, respond to client needs, and create marketing materials in record time. But it's not all business - Megan also emphasizes the importance of injecting fun and authenticity into their videos, keeping things engaging for their audience.

    Learning points from the episode include:

    00:00 - 00:52 Introduction00:52 - 02:18 How the pandemic forced TorranceLearning to change how it produces videos02:18 - 03:12 The benefits of streamlining the production process 03:12 - 04:54 Why it pays to inject a little fun into your videos 04:54 - 05:50 How TorranceLearning saves time with its new process 05:50 - 08:40 How her new process has enhanced her business 08:40 - 08:52 How to connect with Megan and TorranceLearning08:52 - 09:09 Outro

    Important links and mentions:

    Connect with Megan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megantorrance/TorranceLearning: https://www.torrancelearning.com/
  • Do you edit videos with your eyes or your ears? It may sound like an odd question, but hear us out!

    Many video editors focus on visuals first, which are definitely important. But audio is just as (if not more) important to your videos. In fact, the number one reason why people stop watching a video is poor audio.

    Joining this episode of The Visual Lounge is Sam Rogers, President & Principal Consultant of Snap Synapse, a content production company that specializes in learning and development. He’s also a musician, so it’s safe to say that audio is a big part of his life.

    In this episode, Sam explains why video editors need to take an ear-first approach to editing videos. His approach isn’t just about audio quality. It’s also about whether that audio is helping your video tell a story, get a message across, and make your audience feel what you want them to feel. He shares some tips for leading with audio in this episode, whether that be voice, music, or sound effects, to help you make the most impactful videos.

    Learning points from the episode include:

    00:00 - 01:32 Introduction to Sam01:32 - 02:55 Why Sam takes an ear-first approach and what it means02:55 - 04:31 The role of things beyond voice in videos04:31 - 06:32 The role of music in supporting a story 06:32 - 07:34 Tips for leading with the ear when editing 07:34 - 08:08 Outro

    Important links and mentions:

    Connect with Sam on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samrogers/Snap Synapse: https://snapsynapse.com/
  • What comes to mind when you think of workplace communication? Do your eyes glaze over when someone fires up the latest PowerPoint presentation? Sadly, boring workplace comms is pretty common, but it doesn’t have to be that way.

    In this episode of The Visual Lounge, Matt has a great conversation with Grant Crowell from Design Laboratory Inc, a Senior Training Specialist at Microsoft, and author of the book, GRANTASMS: Creative twisted words for cool people!

    Grant explains his approach to making workplace communication more fun and engaging – and why that results in better information absorption. He explores why storytelling is so important as well as the use of visuals, video, and what he calls “playful mindfulness.” We also hear his thoughts on using AI and acronym-speak in the corporate world, plus why he prefers to come up with his own fun names for corporate terms.

    Learning points from the episode include:

    00:00 - 01:51 Introduction01:51 - 03:21 Grant’s top tip for making images or video better03:21 - 05:11 The importance of story in communication05:11 - 11:53 Why workplace communication is often boring11:53 - 17:12 Practical steps for transforming your communication style17:12 - 20:42 How to help people overcome resistance and hesitancy to make communication more fun20:42 - 24:59 The role of video in avoiding boring content 24:59 - 32:44 Speed round32:44 - 33:21 Grant’s final take33:21 - 34:29 Outro

    Important links and mentions:

    Connect with Grant on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grantcrowell/Subscribe to Grant’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/grantcrowell/Grant’s book, GRANTASMS: Creative twisted words for cool people!: https://www.amazon.com/GRANTASMS-Creative-twisted-words-people/dp/0578523469/
  • With over two decades of experience at the crossroads of education and technology, Instructional Designer Ephraim Ross provides invaluable insights on the significance of craftsmanship in your work during his appearance on The Visual Lounge.

    Hosted by Matt Pierce, this episode dives deep into tips and best practices for creators, focusing on visual efficiency, the innovative use of AI tools, and enhancing video and audio quality. Ephraim emphasizes the need for continuous learning and making time to hone your craft despite busy schedules. From the benefits of teleprompter technology and camera streaming apps to advanced features in Snagit and Camtasia, this episode is packed with practical advice for L&D professionals and marketers alike.

    Learning points from the episode include:

    00:00 - 02:15 Introduction02:15 - 05:02 First tip: make time to take time05:02 - 05:42 Tools, tips and temperaments 05:42 - 14:41 Camera streaming apps and AI tools14:41 - 17:44 Snagit tips and tricks17:44 - 22:13 Camtasia tips and tricks22:13 - 28:52 Speed round questions28:52 - 32:46 Final take and conclusion

    Important links and mentions:

    Connect with Ephraim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ephraimross/Email The Visual Lounge on: [email protected]
  • How can we create videos that people pay attention to? With many in the content world claiming that attention spans are shrinking, The Visual Lounge host, Matthew Pierce, has a different take…

    In this episode, Matt explains why he believes that attention spans aren’t the problem. It’s just that there’s so much content battling for our attention (never mind our busy daily lives!)

    Matt explores why you need to know the fundamentals of what makes a good video and how to tell a story with your content to keep people watching. He explains why it’s often the first five seconds of a video that determines whether someone will stick around and why you may need to make the effort to re-engage viewers for longer videos.

    AI is a big topic in the content creation world. But while AI spells opportunity for video creators, it doesn’t mean we can get away with not knowing the basics. You need to know how to tell a story and what your audience is looking for to maintain viewer interest.

    Learning points from the episode include:

    00:00 - 01:21 Introduction 01:21 - 02:50 Reflecting on past guests and the lessons they’ve shared 02:50 - 04:11 The fundamentals of video creation04:11 - 07:51 Why attention spans aren’t shrinking07:51 - 08:58 How to keep audiences engaged past the first five seconds 08:58 - 13:26 Why you need to know your audience 13:26 - 16:51 Why video creation is a learnable skill16:51 - 19:03 AI may help but you still need to know the fundamentals 19:03 - 20:16 Outro and final thoughts

    Important links and mentions:

    Connect with Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewrpierce/
  • Today’s global businesses want to make sure their messages are heard far and wide. But sometimes, that means crossing a language barrier. Whether it’s marketing content or training content, getting your message across quickly and effectively is critical.

    Poorly translated materials could put a spanner in the works of what you’re trying to achieve. But even if the translation is word-for-word perfect, without intentional efforts to localize that content, it’s easy for your message to get lost in translation.

    In this episode, we sit down with Roberto Aiello, the Senior Learning Experience Designer at Personio, about realities, challenges, and his tips for localizing content effectively. He explains why localization is about much more than just translation. For the message of your content to be translated and absorbed by your audience, it needs to feel native to that person.

    Roberto talks about the common difficulties that can come up while localizing content including cultural references and phrases that don’t translate well into other languages. He shares some examples he’s come across as a native Italian speaker now living in Dublin. Roberto has some great advice for anyone involved in localizing content, and explores what to watch out for and why you need to know your audience well.

    Learning points from the episode include:

    00:00 - 01:56 Introduction01:56 - 02:55 Roberto’s tip for using images and video02:55 - 04:30 Roberto’s background as a non-native English speaker04:30 - 08:36 What it means to localize content and why it’s more than just translation08:36 - 11:29 How you can begin translating and localizing content 11:29 - 13:19 Common issues that cause translation difficulties 13:19 - 17:20 How to find balance in a localization project17:20 - 19:39 Things to be aware of when localizing 19:39 - 23:26 Why you need to understand your audience well23:26 - 27:28 Speed round questions 27:28 - 28:00 Roberto’s final take28:00 - 29:08 Outro

    Important links and mentions:

    Connect with Roberto on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertoaiello/
  • On this podcast, we talk about creating video. We talk about editing video. But then there's the art of distributing your video and getting it out there so people can find it.

    And having your audience find it is a critical piece of the puzzle!

    Of course, we’re referring to search engine optimization (SEO). In this episode, we welcome SEO coach and entrepreneur Samantha North. She talks about the importance of SEO in video distribution, the interplay between written content and video for better SEO, and how to start and succeed in SEO. Samantha shares insights from her extensive background in digital marketing and her journey toward mastering video SEO.

    She also provides practical tips on keyword research, video optimization, and leveraging AI tools. The episode rounds out with Samantha’s advice on building a diverse online presence to enrich your brand and safeguard against algorithm changes.

    Learning points from the episode include:

    00:00 - 01:14 Introduction 01:14 - 04:40 Tips for using video to enhance your SEO 04:40 - 07:10 The basics and the importance of understanding SEO 07:10 - 10:14 Practical steps and tools for starting with SEO 10:14 - 17:00 Creating SEO-optimized content17:00 - 21:47 The power of video in SEO and content strategy21:47 - 24:26 Building an online brand universe24:26 - 29:27 Speed round questions29:27 - 30:55 Final thoughts and takeaways

    Important links and mentions:

    Connect with Samantha on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/northsamantha/Connect with Samantha on Twitter: https://twitter.com/sjnrth/Visit Samantha’s Website: https://samanthanorth.com/Find Samantha on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaOtpoJyMj18q31bdHqP-Ug/
  • Is AI really coming for your job… or will it enhance it?

    In this episode of The Visual Lounge, host Matt Pierce discusses the importance and practical uses of AI with Brian Sykes, the founder of AdJourney, plus a seasoned branding and marketing strategist and expert in generative AI.

    They cover ways to integrate AI into everyday tasks, explore various AI tools, and address common concerns about AI, such as job displacement and copyright issues. Brian emphasizes the significance of AI as an amplifier for human capabilities and shares advice for leveraging AI effectively. The conversation also touches on the rapid advancements in AI technology and its potential positive impact on various industries.

    Learning points from the episode include:

    00:00 - 01:39: Introduction01:39 - 02:48 Brian’s advice for creatives using images or video02:48 - 03:46 Brian’s journey with AI 03:46 - 07:29 What AI is best at doing right now07:29 - 12:08 The questions people should be asking AI now to get it to do the best job 13:20 - 22:41 Some of the concerns with AI around copyright, creativity, and the future of work 22:41 - 27:28 Speed round Q&A 27:28 - 28:17 How to connect with Brian 28:17 - 29:00 Brian’s final take29:00 - 29:49 Outro

    Important links and mentions:

    Connect with Brian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianwsykes/Follow Brian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theBrianSykesAI Explore’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AI.ExploreVisit Brian’s Website: https://thebriansykes.com/A.I. Explore: https://www.aiexplore.co/A.I. Lab: the-AI-Lab.com
  • “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” The legendary quote from Maya Angelou sums up the take-home message of this episode nicely.

    In this episode of The Visual Lounge, we welcome Anastasia McCune, Instructional Designer for ChalkDust Consulting and eLearning Media Consulting, to talk about interactive videos and instructional design.

    Videos are a fantastic tool for training and development, but interactive scenarios can take things one step further. Anastasia discusses where regular videos shine, but also where interactive videos can help viewers put those lessons into practice. She talks about how interactive videos that prompt the viewer to do something can help the message stick far better in your viewers’ minds than regular videos.

    She explains her process for designing interactive eLearning experiences with the use of storyboards and shares some examples of her favorite projects, including Deloitte’s interactive recruitment experience (linked below!)

    Learning points from the episode include:

    00:00 – 02:22 Introduction02:22 – 04:14 One tip Anastasia has for improving how you make videos04:14 – 06:13 Where video shines as the best medium06:07 – 07:03 Why interactive learning methods help viewers practice the lessons they learn07:03 – 09:31 How making and planning interactive videos is different from regular content09:31 – 15:55 How often Anastasia uses interactive videos and when it works best15:55 – 21:42 Weighing up when to use interactive elements vs. regular training videos 21:42 – 23:54 Advice for making better screen-recorded content 23:54 – 28:26 Speed round questions 28:26 – 29:18 Anastasia’s final take 29:18 – 30:02 Outro

    Important links and mentions:

    Connect with Anastasia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anastasia-mccune/Anastasia’s website: http://anastasiamccune.com/

    Interactive Examples:

    Deloitte’s Interactive Recruitment Experience: Will You Fit In at Deloitte?https://corp.kaltura.com/resources/videos/interactive-video-example-recruiting-for-deloitte/Broken Co-Worker: https://www.elearningsecrets.com/broken-coworker - about 10 minutes to completeLife Saver: https://life-saver.org.uk/ - multiple scenarios about 10 minutes each
  • Nowadays, trainers and L&D professionals often turn to the power of video to deliver training. But a video alone doesn’t guarantee your viewers will learn and retain the information. So how do you create a video that provokes true learning?

    In this episode of The Visual Lounge, we’re joined by Jonathan Halls, the President and CEO of Jonathan Halls LLC, a Professor at George Washington University, and a best-selling author.

    Jonathan reveals his top tips for using video in training scenarios, what he’s learned from his background in the BBC, and what people often get wrong about using video. We hear his insights into how we can use videos to provoke learning and what true learning really means in different contexts.

    Jonathan shares his take on one of the top questions in the video creation world – how polished do videos really need to be? He also breaks down the three principles of training video creation – purpose, polished, and professional – and how they can guide you when creating your own content.

    Learning points from the episode include:

    00:00 – 02:40 Introduction02:40 – 03:49 Jonathan’s tip for using video in training scenarios03:49 – 04:55 What he learned from his TV background 04:55 – 08:16 What people get wrong about using video and how to decide when to use it08:16 – 17:00 How to provoke learning with videos (and what it really means)17:00 – 21:29 How polished do training videos need to be?21:29 – 28:35 An overview of Jonathan’s book28:35 – 32:05 Speed round questions 32:05 – 33:20 Jonathan’s final take33:20 – 34:47 Outro

    Important links and mentions:

    Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanhalls/Jonathan’s website: http://www.jonathanhalls.com/Read the book, Creating Training Videos: Professional Quality With a Smartphone: https:/www.amazon.com/Creating-Training-Videos-Professional-Smartphone/dp/1953946968/
  • As the saying goes, “a picture is worth a thousand words.” Visuals are a quick, efficient, and effective way of getting your message across, so your audience understands and retains key information. But how do you create effective visuals?

    In this episode of The Visual Lounge, we welcome back Mike Parkinson, keynote speaker and trainer, Principal of 24 Hour Company, and Owner of Billion Dollar Graphics. Mike gives an in-depth look at how you can tap into the nature of the human brain to create the best visuals. We hear how to work with the automatic and manual sides of our brains to deliver information effectively.

    He explains his step-by-step process, starting with goals and audience to working out your means and motivators – all before you even start thinking about how your visuals will look. For a masterclass in creative visuals and visual messaging, don’t miss this episode!

    Learning points from the episode include:

    00:00 – 01:55 Introduction01:55 – 02:54 Mike’s tip for making images better02:54 – 06:21 Why should you deliver your message in visual form06:21 – 09:27 How to start crafting your message09:27 – 14:00 Tying messages to emotions to engage people14:00 – 17:16 Means and motivators in your messaging17:16 – 22:05 Taking chunks of information and turning it into a story22:05 – 24:24 How to convey a message visually24:24 – 26:14 The benefits of following a clear process26:14 – 29:45 Why AI can be a “smart start” but not a replacement for creatives29:45 – 33:50 Speed round questions 33:50 – 34:32 Mike’s final take on using visuals 34:32 – 35:27 Outro

    Important links and mentions:

    Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-parkinson-bb364/Follow Mike on X: https://twitter.com/Mike_ParkinsonFollow Mike on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikeparkinson_bdg/Mike Parkinson and Billion Dollar Graphics YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRDQaYfze62MYQ_CO5rjo1wBillion Dollar Graphics: https://billiondollargraphics.com/