The Visual Lounge

What if pro-level video creation didn't require a film crew, expensive equipment, or weeks of production time? Imagine literally describing what you want and having it appear on screen. We're living through a moment where AI video generation has gone from science fiction to "just about usable" reality. The technology is still rough around the edges (and yes, you might find yourself shouting at your computer.) But we're witnessing the evolution of something new. Joining us in this episode is Ellis Pratt, Director at Cherryleaf, a UK-based technical writing and training services company, and host of the Cherryleaf Podcast. He’s been actively testing Google's VEO 3 and figuring out how to make AI-generated video actually work for real-world business applications. He talks us through his creative process of combining VEO 3 with tools like Camtasia and Audiate and gives us an honest look at what it's really like to work with this technology.  Learning points from the episode include: 00:00 - 02:27 Introduction to  Ellis Pratt 02:27 - 03:09 Ellis’ favorite exhibit at the British Museum 03:09 - 04:13 Ellis’ biggest tip for using images and videos in their work04:13 - 05:49 How technical writing is changing with video content  05:49 - 08:48 Why Ellis started exploring AI-generated videos 08:48 - 12:24 Why VEO 3 beats other AI video tools 12:24 - 16:18 The process from prompts to final video 16:18 - 18:02 How Camtasia solves VEO 3’s limitations  18:02 - 23:02 The French New Wave Video example 23:02 - 25:09 Ellis’ advice for starting out with AI video 25:09 - 29:34 The e-learning video example  29:34 - 31:08 Final advice for working with VEO 3 31:08 - 35:42 Speed round questions  35:42 - 36:54 Ellis’ final take on AI video 36:54 - 37:57 Outro Important links and mentions: Connect with Ellis Pratt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellispratt  Find out more about Cherryleaf on the website: https://www.cherryleaf.com Watch the Cherryleaf Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cherryleafltd 

Customer education is a must-have for a lot of businesses these days, especially software companies. But reading thick manuals and wordy passages of jargon is no one’s idea of a good time. So what’s the key to great customer education?For this episode, we look back at an older conversation we had with Greg Mead. Back then, he was Senior Instructional Designer at ClickUp, so we talked about ClickUp’s approach to instructional videos and the power of GIFs in learning design. Since the episode first went out, Greg has moved on to become a Learning Experience Designer at FloQast.You’ll hear a bit about Greg’s background in video, how ClickUp experimented with different learning mediums, his advice for making engaging videos, and the best times to use GIFs.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 - 01:30 One tip for improving how you use GIFs or short videos01:30 - 03:33 GIF vs video: How to decide what media to use03:33 - 05:09 Why should we lean into visual mediums?05:09 - 07:30 The tipping point that took Greg from written instructions to video07:30 - 09:21 Continuous improvement in video09:21 - 11:50 How to make sure the videos are engaging and helpful11:50 - 15:05 How GIFs help to communicate advanced concepts15:05 - 16:53 Greg’s background as a video creator16:53 - 21:57 Speed round questions21:57 - 26:04 How to connect with Greg26:04 - 26:50 Greg’s final takeImportant links and mentions:Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gdmeadFollow Greg on X: https://x.com/gdmeadFollow Greg on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregmead20/ Subscribe to Greg’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gdmead

What if we had to rebuild L&D from scratch? What could we do differently?There have been rumblings in the L&D world that roles are gradually going to be replaced by AI. While we don’t predict an L&D apocalypse coming our way, maybe it’s time to start thinking differently about the role of L&D in broader business terms. Joining this episode is Tracie Cantu, Chief Learning Strategist at her company, Your CLO, and a Training Advisory Board Member at TechSmith. Tracie comes on the show with two decades of experience leading L&D transformation at organizations like Meta, Atlassian, and Whole Foods Market.Tracie shares a bold vision for the future of L&D – we need to start thinking like business partners, not just L&D. She explains what she’d like to see more and less of in L&D, why we need a service catalog, and why the intake stage is the most important step in a consultation.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 – 01:52 Introduction to Tracie01:52 – 02:47 Tracie’s biggest tip for using images and video02:47 – 07:23 How Tracie would rebuild L&D from scratch as a team of business partners07:23 – 12:13 How smaller L&D teams can do more with less12:13 – 18:28 The most repeatable tasks you can do to scale your impact18:28 – 23:23 Skills all L&D professionals should start focusing on23:23 – 24:54 Tracie’s challenge for L&D people24:54 – 28:31 Speed round questions28:31 - 29:57 How to connect with Tracie and Your CLO29:57 - 31:00Tracie’s final take31:00 - 31:57 OutroImportant links and mentions:Connect with Tracie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/traciemcantu/Your CLO website: https://www.yourclo.net/

The internet’s relationship with visuals and video has been a rocky ship over the past few years, constantly pivoting and evolving. And most creators are either playing catch up or are stuck playing by the same old rules with limited success. But luckily, we have Andy Crestodina, Co-Founder and CMO of Orbit Media Studios, on the show to share his current strategies on how to make your visuals truly effective.  Andy explains some of the top content mistakes he sees people make, how to use visuals to better deliver your message, and the number one thing you should never do with your website’s videos. We also hear his take on using AI as a “thought partner” to enhance your work by testing ideas, finding content gaps, and acting as your target audience, so you can talk to them whenever you need their perspective. Learning points from the episode include:00:00 – 02:10 Introduction to Andy02:10 – 03:39 Andy’s biggest tip for using images or video03:39 – 05:50 How AI has changed how we use the internet and video05:50 – 07:37 Why you need to develop an elevator pitch for AI07:37 – 09:26 One mistake to avoid when using videos on your website09:26 – 12:18 Why you need to pretend to be your audience every week12:18 – 14:35 How to get better results with AI14:35 – 18:15 How Andy’s use of images and video has evolved18:15 – 20:30 The secret to continuous improvement when recording videos20:30 – 24:23 Why authentic is better than perfect24:23 – 25:10 Why Andy uses AI to improve quality rather than boost speed and efficiency25:10 – 29:12 Speed round questions29:12 – 29:55 How to connect with Andy and Orbit Media29:55 – 31:17 Andy’s final take31:17 – 32:14 Outro Important links and mentions:Connect with Andy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andycrestodina/Follow Andy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crestodina/Follow Andy on X: https://x.com/crestodinaOrbit Media Studios: https://www.orbitmedia.com/Orbit Media Studios on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Orbitmedia

Need to create an e-learning presentation but don’t have an eye for good visuals? This episode is for you! We revisit a great past episode with Diane Elkins, instructional design pro and owner of Artisan Learning. There’s so much solid advice in this episode on what works, what to avoid, and how visuals impact the learning experience (probably more than you think).Diane explains how bad visuals inhibit learning, why simpler is often better, and why “slides” are due a name change. Plus, she gets on her soapbox to explain the real goal of e-learning. We also look at some examples of pretty, plain, and hideous slides to compare, based on a real experiment Diane used to test out visual design. One thing to note: We do share some visuals in this episode of good and bad design choices, so for the full experience, we recommend checking out the episode on YouTube.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 – 02:44 Introduction to Diane and her work02:44 – 04:57 The role in visuals in e-learning04:57 - 07:33 Best practices for visuals and what to avoid07:33 – 11:11 Mindset shifts to avoid over-the-top visuals11:11 – 13:20 Why visuals are even more important in e-learning scenarios13:20 – 16:25 How to decide what information to put on a slide16:25 – 21:53 Diane’s pretty, plain, and hideous visual design experiment21:53 – 25:00 Why simple is often better for learning25:00 – 29:34 Why “is it helpful?” is the most important question to ask29:34 – 31:31 Why visual aids should always be in service of the audience31:31 – 38:42 An example of whether we should decorate or illustrate with visuals38:42 – 46:18 Can we fix it? Diane’s advice to bad design examples46:18 – 49:49 Speed round questions49:49 – 51:40 OutroImportant links and mentions:Visit e-Learning Uncovered: www.elearninguncovered.comVisit Artisan Learning: www.artisanelearning.comConnect with Diane on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dpelkins/

It’s time to ditch the lectures. The secret to creating powerful learning content that people actually pay attention to and use in their daily lives is all about action. Dr. Karl Kapp introduces us to action-based learning in this episode – his go-to tactic for making learning more engaging, useful, and practical. Karl is a Professor of Instructional Technology at Bloomsburg University and the author of multiple books, including Action-First Learning and Learning in 3D.He explains what action-based learning really looks like and why front-loading learners with bags of information is the wrong approach. His method is to throw learners into realistic scenarios and activities that break down the barrier of failure-avoidance.Karl also talks about the missing piece of most training sessions: reflection. He shares what good reflection activities look like and why it needs to be an ongoing process to get that new knowledge to stick.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 - 01:19 Introduction to Karl01:19 – 03:30 Karl’s number one tip for using images or video in learning03:30 – 05:35 What is action first learning? How it ties to psychology 05:35 – 09:15 How to avoid the feeling of failing in adult learning09:15 – 13:02 The ideal time for action-based learning13:02 – 17:57 Why reflection is essential to turn learning into action17:57 – 20:43 When to schedule reflection after a learning session20:43 – 25:34 How images and video add visual cues that support learning25:34 – 28:08 Speed round questions28:08 – 29:46 How to connect and learn more from Karl29:46 – 30:46 Karl’s final take30:46 – 31:38 OutroImportant links and mentions:Connect with Karl on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlkapp/Subscribe to L&D Easter Eggs LinkedIn Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6599686641453977600Subscribe to Karl’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ProfKapp01Discover the Power of Coloring and Comics in Adult Learning! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J4mP7RFgoTcAction-First Learning Video Playlist from Karl’s channel: a...

How do some people just seem to command attention the moment they walk into a room? They’ve nailed their personal brand.Dr. Dustin York, who's worked with everyone from the Obama campaign to Nike, breaks down the science behind personal branding and shares actionable tips you can start using today. Today he’s a Professor at Maryville University of St. Louis and a professional speaker for his business Dr. York Training where he shares advice on how to communicate more effectively.He talks about the power of body language, consistent visual style, and how to build trust with your audience. Dustin also reveals some of his strategies for balancing consistency with trying new things, and how you can use the content creation pros of any industry for inspiration.Whether you're starting a YouTube channel, creating instructional content, or just want to show up more confidently in meetings, this episode is a must-listen for personal branding tips.  Learning points from the episode include:00:00 - 01:58 An introduction to Dustin01:58 – 04:07 Dustin’s top tip for using images or video04:07 – 08:30 Identifying characteristics you want to emulate for your brand08:30 – 11:58 How individuals can nail their own visual brand11:58 – 14:03 How much attention should you pay to color? 14:03 – 17:23 Dustin’s advice for interacting with a camera and why AI won’t replace the need for human connection17:23 – 20:15 Dustin’s 3 quick tips for improving your visual and personal branding20:15 – 21:34 Dustin picks one image that represents him best21:34 – 22:11 Connect with Dustin to learn more22:11 – 23:15 Dustin’s final take23:15 – 23:33 OutroImportant links and mentions:Visit Dustin’s website: https://www.drdustinyork.com/Connect with Dustin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dryork/

What if all that time you spent learning Python on YouTube or mastering Photoshop through online tutorials could actually count toward formal education credits?For this episode, we’re at the U.S. Distance Learning Association’s (USDLA) latest conference, to talk with Dr. Joe Sallustio, veteran higher ed expert and Co-Founder and Host of The EdUp Experience podcast. We chat about how learning has fundamentally changed and why it may be time for higher education to wise up to the trend of video-based learning.  After all, YouTube, TikTok, and Reddit are the go-to places for millions of people to get answers or to learn new skills. So if you pour hours and hours into learning a topic, shouldn’t that count for something?Joe explains how ‘Credit for Prior Learning’ (CPL) could help to bridge the gap between how people actually learn today and higher education by awarding credits for lived experience and skills. Joe also shares his advice for anyone new to making videos, and explains how AI can knock down the barriers to entry if you’re ready to start making training videos.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 – 02:13 Introduction to Joe and his background in higher ed02:13 – Joe’s biggest tip for using images and video in learning content03:05 – 04:55 How teachers can start to use images and videos as part of training04:55 – 06:30 How new video creators can get past the barriers to entry 06:30 – 07:47 How to create viewer-friendly content based around their expectations07:47 – 08:16 Why video subject and viewer intention determine the ideal length08:16 – 10:28 How ‘credit for prior learning’ could bridge the gap between traditional education and online learning10:28 -13:03 Should higher ed offer ways to prove knowledge outside the norm?13:03 – 13:15 How to connect with Joe13:15 – 14:08 Joe’s final take14:08 – 14:27 Outro Important links and mentions:Connect with Joe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joesallustio/

What makes you click away immediately from a video vs. stay glued to the screen? Maybe it’s overwhelming background music or cursor movements that make you feel seasick.We’ve all seen videos that don’t quite click for us (and perhaps made a few of them ourselves). So, in this episode, we look at common instructional video mistakes to avoid to keep your learners watching. It’s an older episode and one of our most popular ones but is still packed with plenty of must-know tips.Host Matt Pierce sits down with Andrew DeBell (Sr. Learning Solutions Strategist at Atlassian), Cara North (Founder and Chief Learning Consultant for The Learning Camel), and Chandra Owen (our former Lead Instructional Designer), to hear their biggest tips on pacing, audio, editing, and how to make sure viewers get the most valuable information. And because this is a safe space here, everyone shares their own common mistakes and things they’re still working on. After all, even the pros can make mistakes.P.S. Matt also reveals news about a brand new free TechSmith tool – Camtasia Online. Listen out for details in the intro or click the link below. Learning points from the episode include:00:00 – 04:00 Introduction to Cara, Andrew and Chandra04:00 – 08:23 When do you choose to use video?08:23 – 11:37 One tip for improving how they use video or images in their work11:37 – 12:27 Ad break12:27 – 15:22 The number one thing that ruins a good video15:22 – 21:09 Small mistakes that can make a video hard to watch21:09 – 26:04 The top reasons people stop watching videos26:04 – 30:34 Music at the top/tail end of a video30:34 – 34:07 Using picture in picture in video best practices34:07 – 39:09 The mistakes we’ve made and are still working on39:09 – 43:08 Speed round questions43:08 – 43:58 Best place to connect with Cara, Chandra and Andrew43:58 – 46:08 Final takes46:08 – 47:04 OutroImportant links and mentions:Connect with Andrew: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewdebell/Connect with Cara: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caranorth11/Connect with Chandra: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chandraowen/Get started with Camtasia online: https://camtasia.techsmith.com/

Learning and development isn’t just up to the folks in the L&D department anymore. In this episode, we hear how modern workplace communication and learning extend to the wider organization, thanks to technology breaking down barriers in visual communication.Host Matt Pierce sits down with David Kelly, former Chairman and CEO of The Learning Guild, to explore how L&D has changed over his career and why the role of an L&D professional needs to go beyond just creating content.David brings over two decades of learning and performance leadership to this episode, sharing his take on how AI and modern communication tools are transforming the way we learn and share our messages across workplaces.We talk about the cultural shifts happening in L&D (and workplaces in general) in the age of AI and visual communication, plus how leaders can model those behaviors for their teams. He also breaks down the key skills that L&D people need today, including innate curiosity and the ability to articulate well.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 – 01:47 Introduction to David01:47 – 03:21 David’s biggest tip for using images or video in learning and development03:21 – 05:42 How to embrace areas of discomfort in modern learning design05:42 – 09:45 Why L&D pros need to move beyond the mindset of just producing content09:45 – 14:10 The must-have skills that L&D people need today14:10 – 16:43 The role of visuals in modern workplaces and L&D16:43 – 20:34 How to get people to embrace using visuals as part of their everyday lives 20:34 – 25:00 What leaders can do to push that culture forward25:00 – 29:50 David’s speed round questions29:50 – 30:41 David’s final take on L&D30:41 – 31:34 OutroImportant links and mentions:Connect with David on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lnddave/

Want to know the secrets of the L&D content pros?Become an even better visual designer today with these simple, quick tips for improving your approach to creating content. We hear from three visual design and learning strategy experts in part two of our special 250th episode celebration.Hear how to escape the “curse of knowledge” from Abbey Cooke, Director of Training & Onboarding at Effective School Solutions, why visuals should be the supporting act not the star of the show from Jeff Weaver, Expert in L&D, Training, Culture, and OD, and how to stay organized with your content strategy from Robyn Defelice, Intrapreneur, Author & Presenter, Learning Strategist for her company RADLearning.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 - 01:32 Introduction01:32 - 03:06 Abbey’s advice for overcoming the “curse of knowledge”03:06 - 05:03 2 tips for being more effective with your learning design05:03 - 09:37 Jeff’s advice on how to use visuals to support the message09:37 - 14:03 Robyn’s process of using templates, batching, and staying on track14:03 - 18:05 Tools that help Robyn stay organized and productive18:05 - 18:24 OutroImportant links and mentions:Connect with Abbey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbey-like-the-road/Connect with Jeff on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreybweaver/Connect with Robyn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rdefelice/

We like to ask anyone who joins The Visual Lounge, what’s your one take you want to give our audience? It’s an open-ended question so we always get a good variety of unique answers and love hearing the advice, life lessons, and mindset changes we can apply to using video and images in our work. To celebrate our 250th episode milestone, we bring together friends of The Visual Lounge to ask them this question.  In part one of this episode, you’ll hear from: Betty Dannewitz, Learning Solutions Architect at Blanchard  Jeff Batt, Course Author & Owner at Learning Dojo Destery Hildenbrand, Learning & Development Consultant at Destery1Kenobi Kassy Laborie, Speaker, Author, Virtual Training Pioneer at Kassy LaBorie Consulting Nick Floro, Learning Architect, CEO at SealWorks Interactive Studios Each one offers insights into their own processes and fresh and valuable advice. We talk about everything from pushing through creative blocks, using AI to help with storyboarding or writing, gathering feedback from learners, to becoming a repurposing pro. Tune in to hear from experts who are living and breathing the world of video and visual design.For part two, we’ll be talking to more great people to hear their thoughts and advice on how they approach content creation. Stay tuned for more coming soon!Learning points from the episode include: 00:00 - 00:46 Introduction 00:46 - 01:30 Jeff Batt shares backstory on his career 01:30 - 02:47 Why you need to be an artisan 02:47 - 04:29 What to do when you feel stuck in a creative rut 04:29 - 08:34 Destery’s advice for staying up to date with the latest tech   08:34 - 09:45 Concrete benefits of using AI  09:45 - 11:08 Why Kassy Laborie sees AI as a handy writing partner 11:08 - 12:33 How using AI helps Kassy achieve her goals 12:33 - 13:36 How AI helps Kassy assess writing  13:36 - 15:59 Nick Floro talks about how easy it is to get feedback these days 15:59 - 17:30 How you can get L&D departments to buy into using new tech  17:30 - 20:22 The trend of AI tool integration in everyday tools  20:22 - 22:10 Betty Dannewitz’s tips for creating extra content  22:10 - 23:16 How repurposing content affects how you build it in the first place  23:16 - 24:08 Outro  Important links and mentions: Camtasia: https://www.techsmith.com/camtasia/audiate Betty Dannewitz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ifyouaskbetty/  Betty’s website: https://ifyouaskbetty.com  Jeff Batt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffbatt/ Destery Hildenbrand: https://www.linkedin.com/in/desteryhildenbrand/ Kassy Laborie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassylaborie/  Kassy’s website: https://kassylaborie.com/  Nick Floro:

Is video always the best way to teach something? Video has transformed the world of workplace learning and still makes up a huge part of it today. Just about any workplace, big or small, can create training videos with minimal cost. But it doesn’t always make it the right tool for the job.In this throwback episode of The Visual Lounge, host Matt Pierce revisits a conversation with Jonathan Halls, author and head of his own company as a workplace learning and talent development consultant.Jonathan breaks down the three questions to ask to determine whether video is the right medium to use and his take on why overly polished content isn’t always necessary. We get a little geeky about learning science to explore how learning actually occurs in the viewer’s minds and how this shaped Jonathan’s whole mindset on training content. Learning points from the episode include:00:00 – 01:08 Why we’re revisiting this episode 01:08 – 03:56 Introduction to Jonathan03:56 – 04:52 Jonathan’s quick tips for using video in workplace learning04:52 – 06:04 The mindset shift Jonathan recommends 06:04 – 09:24 Three questions to ask to decide on a learning medium 09:24 – 14:47 How to provoke learning with video and why “learning” requires context 14:47 – 18:06 Where video is most effective in the learning journey18:06 – 22:38 Do learning videos need to be overly polished?22:38 – 29:41 Jonathan gives a quick breakdown on why he wrote his book 29:41 – 33:14 Speed round questions33:14 – 34:30 Jonathan’s final take34:30 – 35:55 OutroImportant links and mentions:Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanhalls

In just a few short years, AI usage has boomed in the content creation world. Not just that, it’s also changed a LOT, and in ways many of us never predicted. In this episode, Matt Pierce takes us back to 2023 when many of us were still experimenting with AI and had bold predictions about its future. He asked the audience on LinkedIn for predictions, fears, and insights into how people were using AI for video content. How much has changed since then? Were our predictions right? Matt unpacks some of the top trends people were discussing, including AI for accessibility, dynamic learning, user-generated content, and the ins and outs of video production. A common theme that’s still relevant today is the role of authenticity and the human voice in our content. While AI can do a lot of the grunt work and can help us turn ideas into finished products, the human voice is still king. Learning points from the episode include:00:00 - 01:53 Introduction to the “State of the Union” of AI today01:53 - 03:45 A look back at the LinkedIn conversation and how things have changed03:45 - 04:42 How tech specifications have changed04:42 - 07:51 AI’s role in enhancing video production07:51 - 08:42 Why automation hasn’t eliminated the need for authentic voices 08:42 - 09:25 How future videos might adjust content for dynamic learning09:25 - 10:13 Accessibility enhancements with AI tools10:13 - 11:36 The future of interactive video11:36 - 16:15 The rise of user-generated content in learning16:15 - 17:10 How more digitization will affect learning content17:10 - 23:18 The value of human connection and authenticity 23:18 - 26:21 Future tech and platform-specific considerations26:21 - 27:33 Join the conversation27:33 - 27:59 OutroImportant links and mentions:Audiate: https://www.techsmith.com/camtasia/audiate/Connect with Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewrpierce/

Have you ever felt a little out of your depth when making an extra complex or brand new video type? Maybe AI could help. Host Matt Pierce shares his experience as someone used to creating training content, adapting to creating content for a commercial. We hear about the script drafting process, the challenges of balancing feasibility, including budget and resources, with creative ideas, and the different stages of storyboarding.Naturally, we should always look at tools to help us out in unfamiliar territory. So Matt breaks down how he’s been using AI for tasks like creating casting calls, storyboarding, script analysis and prop identification, plus audio adjustments. While AI is great at doing some things, Matt’s clear about one thing. It’s not able to (nor should it) do everything. But it's getting genuinely good at lifting specific parts of the video creation process to new heights. Matt also highlights our growing AI toolkit across Camtasia, Screencast, and Audiate to help you achieve what you want to do with your videos faster and more efficiently.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 - 01:26 Introduction 01:26 - 04:07 The process of learning to write scripts for commercial videos 04:07 - 07:39 Storyboarding your video – from stick figures to AI-generated characters 07:39 - 09:13 Other ways you could use AI in the scripting and storyboarding stage09:13 - 10:19 How AI can improve background noise quality 10:19 - 11:18 What’s coming in Camtasia and Audiate that will help you make high-level videos 11:18 - 12:29 We’re at a turning point with AI 12:29 - 13:52 Matt’s favorite use cases for AI in making videos 13:52 - 15:26 Tools to help you create and share videos 15:26 - 16:16 Outro Important links and mentions:Camtasia: https://www.techsmith.com/camtasia/Audiate: https://www.techsmith.com/camtasia/audiate/Screencast: https://www.techsmith.com/screencast.html/

What’s really holding your learners back from absorbing the information they need? We’ve all been through training at some point that’s either confusing or too broad, or perhaps the kind that puts you to sleep. The truth is that training and learning design are complicated. It’s a balancing act between the learners themselves (how they learn, their interests and attention span), the designers (their desire to create engaging content), subject matter experts (who have the knowledge but aren’t always the best teachers), and then the organization, which has its own goals to achieve.So where does learning design typically fall short? In this episode, we welcome Sara Sorenson, Product Enablement Manager at Muck Rack, and Tim Slade, Founder of The eLearning Designer’s Academy, to explore the top mistakes they see in learning design, how we can get better at creating training, plus some things learners could do to help that information stick.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 - 02:45 Introduction to Sara and Tim 02:45 - 05:50 The biggest thing organizations are getting wrong about learning05:50 - 11:01 How should organizations use subject matter experts?11:01 - 14:29 Why sometimes organizations need processes, not training14:29 - 20:37 What are learners getting wrong20:37 - 25:20 Why learning at work is different to the learning experience in school or college 25:20 - 30:07 How can learning designers help learners feel okay about mistakes30:07 - 37:17 What else can we do to help learners achieve the ideal outcome37:17 - 38:13 OutroImportant links and mentions:Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarasorensonid/Connect with Tim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sladetim/Visit The eLearning Designer’s Academy: https://elearningacademy.io/Subscribe to The eLearning Designer's Academy by Tim Slade: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2CE3YBPX53oeKVsiTbhX2w?sub_confirmation=1

You have just five seconds. So hook ‘em in, keep them watching, and make those seconds count.Starting with a clear hook isn’t just for YouTubers looking to make it big. Even if you’re creating instructional videos that people have to watch for their job, you have just a few seconds to grab attention. If you don’t, the video might still play but their concentration will be long gone. When you put all that effort into creating a video, the last thing you want is for your viewer to click away or leave it playing in the background while they’re thinking about what to have for dinner that night. The short attention span thing is real. We all have 101 other things on our minds on any given day. So how do you grab attention and keep it? It all starts with a powerful hook.Host of The Visual Lounge, Matt Pierce, breaks down the power of hooks, including three tactics you can use to make your first few seconds count. You’ll learn about how and when to use hooks and some common mistakes to avoid for your next video.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 - 00:58 Introduction to video hooks00:58 - 02:03 Why the first five seconds are the most important02:03 - 02:38 The battle for viewer attention02:38 - 03:35 Hook tactic 1: The bold statement03:35 - 04:17 Hook tactic 2: Pain points04:17 - 05:01 Hook tactic 3: Instant wins05:01 - 05:37 Beware of clickbait 05:37 - 06:51 Top video introduction mistakes to avoid06:51 - 08:15 Making internal videos people want to watch08:15 - 09:27 Tie your hook to your internal audience 09:27 - 10:11 When flashy hooks aren’t needed10:11 - 11:08 OutroImportant links and mentions:Connect with Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewrpierce/

Here’s a secret… most people aren’t naturals on camera. For many, it can be daunting and can even hold us back from trying to make videos in the first place. But if you’re running training or making content, video is no doubt a part of your job. So how do you look good on camera? It’s a question we hear a lot, so we pulled this 2022 episode from out of the archive, which has some great tips from Diana Howles, the CEO and Co-Owner of Howles Associates. You’ll hear practical tips on how to feel more confident, look more professional, and connect more authentically without feeling like you're faking it. We talk about how to “clean up” your on-camera image and get your message across more effectively, whether you’re doing live or pre-recorded videos. Diana is an award-winning speaker, author, and international virtual trainer with 25 years of experience in the learning industry. She has conducted live online training for clients since 2000 and has taught virtual classes in more than a dozen countries. Diana is also the author of the book Next Level Virtual Training.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 - 03:14 Introduction to Diana03:15 - 04:58 Diana explains the premise of her book, Next Level Virtual Training04:58 - 08:25 What is an on-camera presence and why is it important?08:25 - 12:55 What to do if you’re not comfortable on camera12:55 - 15:11 How to tweak your on-camera presence for live vs. pre-recorded video15:11 - 21:04 Steps to take to get more comfortable on camera21:04 - 23:17 Standing vs. sitting while on camera: which is best?23:17 - 29:30 Common mistakes people make on camera29:30 - 41:04 How to use the B.L.E.A.C.H method to clean up your on-camera presence41:04 - 43:18 Where to find more tips from Diana43:18 - 49:07 Diana’s speed round49:07 - 50:00 OutroImportant links and mentions:Connect with Diana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianahowles/Visit Diana's Website: https://howlesassociates.com/

What do you need to know about the L&D space in 2025? The L&D Global Sentiment Survey is now in its 12th year and records the trends, attitudes, top challenges, and priorities in the L&D space. This year, over 3,000 voters from almost 100 countries participated in the research, sharing their experiences and thoughts on L&D today.We invited the author of the report Donald Taylor onto the show to get his thoughts on the biggest trends and insights revealed by the study. We talk about the ongoing focus on AI, and Donald shares his advice for those afraid of AI’s impact on their jobs. A theme throughout our conversation is that some in L&D could benefit from a mindset shift – away from singular tasks and individual tools and toward a greater focus on overall goals. Download the full report in the links below.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 - 02:25 Introduction02:25 - 03:47 Donald’s biggest tip for using images or video in L&D03:47 - 07:00 Background on the study and why it became so important07:00 - 10:51 How accurate is it to predict L&D trends from the study? 10:51 - 16:23 What influences early adopters to abandon new tools/ideas?16:23 - 19:35 What the study reveals about AI’s influence in L&D 19:35 - 26:12 How L&D pros can change their mindset around using AI 26:12 - 29:00 Speed round questions 29:00 - 29:49 Where to find out more about the study29:49 - 30:47 Donald’s final take30:47 - 31:41 OutroImportant links and mentions:Connect with Donald on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donaldhtaylor/Visit Donald’s Website: https://donaldhtaylor.co.uk/Download the Global Sentiment Survey 2025: https://donaldhtaylor.co.uk/research_base/global-sentiment-survey-2025/

Can using AI in visual design ever be truly creative? This week’s guest would go one step further and call AI the “future of creativity.”Mike Parkinson, Principal of 24 Hour Company and Owner of Billion Dollar Graphics, joins us for a special live show of The Visual Lounge, hosted at Training 2025, a conference and expo produced by Training Magazine.We chat about where AI can fit into visual design and content creation and why Mike calls it a “friction fixer” or a “smart start” rather than a replacement for creative talent. His take on AI is to view it like a “drunk intern” – something that could help you in the creative process but not something you’d want to hand full control to. For those who have struggled with AI prompts and results, Mike shares the three rules of using AI to get the most out of it. The running theme in this episode is that context is key and that always has to come from humans themselves. With context and the right approach, you can make AI a fundamental part of the creative process. Learning points from the episode include:00:00 - 01:22 Introduction to Mike 01:22 - 02:58 How to get better at using AI for images02:58 - 04:02 Does AI follow the Ballmer curve?04:02 - 06:23 What to do if you’re struggling with AI06:23 - 09:36 Where most people get AI wrong09:36 - 11:59 The best use cases of AI in visual design11:59 - 14:24 Using AI to enhance usability, dopamine hit 14:24 - 16:20 Is using AI creative?16:20 - 19:00 The dos and don’ts for those in the training space using AI19:00 - 22:16 Speed round questions22:16 - 22:55 How to connect with Mike22:55 - 23:27 Mike’s final take 23:27 - 23:59 OutroImportant links and mentions:Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-parkinson-bb364/Visit the Billion Dollar Graphics Website: https://billiondollargraphics.com/Follow Mike on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikeparkinson_bdg/Subscribe to Mike Parkinson and Billion Dollar Graphics on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRDQaYfze62MYQ_CO5rjo1w/