Podcast Performance Lab

If you try to sound professional by flattening your voice into a "newscaster" tone in your podcasts or videos, you are actually making it harder for people to listen. Science shows that listeners physically mimic the tension in your voice. Basically, if you feel nothing, then they feel nothing. This episode looks at Simulation Theory and Emotional Contagion. I go over how your vocal prosody triggers the mirror neurons in your listener's brain. This biological link is why that "NPR Voice" thing often doesn't work all that well in podcasting, and why you need to use techniques to connect. Get better at communication and public speaking to improve your next episode. Key Takeaways: Why listeners physically mimic the emotions they hear in your voice. Why sounding objective or impartial creates a barrier to connection. Mirror Neurons: How to trigger the "audio-motor link" in your audience's brain. A simple script analysis and practice drill to inject genuine emotion into your episodes. RESOURCES: Emotional Contagion: https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/mirror-neurons-critical-development-empathy Simulation Theory: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2865077/ Prosodic Cues: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4588126/ Deep acting: https://bigthink.com/neuropsych/deep-acting-at-work/ Newsletter: https://stereoforest.comCHAPTERS:

You might remember the red Swingline stapler from the movie Office Space. All these years later. You can apply that principle to your episodes to stop sounding like every other show.This episode explores Dual Coding Theory and Concreteness Fading. This science explains why abstract phrases like "an efficient workflow" are forgettable while concrete details like "fast editing with Stream Deck" stick in the brain better.Key Takeaways: Dual Coding Theory: Why your brain processes images and text separately and how to trigger both.Concreteness Fading: Why memory fades over time and how concrete nouns act as "handles" for the brain.The Problem with Jargon: Why "safe" business words and AI make you sound kinda genericThe "Zoom In" Drill: A simple editing exercise to turn more of your words and phrases into specifics.RESOURCES:Dual Coding Studies:https://www.researchgate.net/publication/312316469_Concrete_vs_Abstract_words_-_What_do_you_Recall_Better_A_Study_on_Dual_Coding_Theoryhttps://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0301008223001120https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/dual-coding-theory (multiple studies)More information about dual codinghttps://www.instructionaldesign.org/theories/dual-coding/https://plato.stanford.edu/archIves/sum2020/entries/mental-imagery/theories-memory.html Concreteness fadinghttps://www.learningscientists.org/blog/2018/2/1-1 (general)https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0959475221000839 Random word (suggestion) generatorsThere are many! Here are two optionshttps://www.impromuse.com/ https://www.andismith.com/games/improv-suggestions/ Join the Lab &...

If you feel awkward staring into a camera lens, you are fighting your own biology. Your nervous system interprets the unblinking stare of a lens as a threat or rejection, even if your brain doesn't. This can lead to many things, including causing your facial muscles to go flat and turn into what actors might call "Dead Eyes."In this episode, we use Dr. Stephen Porges' Polyvagal Theory and the Still Face Experiment to explain why your face goes numb when you hit record, and you'll learn how to override it using a specific acting drill.Key Takeaways:The Anatomy of "Dead Eyes": Why your Social Engagement System shuts down when looking at a lens.Why the camera lens triggers a subconscious threat response.Stanislavski’s Circles: How to use the "Medium Circle" to trick your brain into feeling safe.The Drill: My "Talk to the Face" drill to warm up your on-camera presence.ResourcesJoin the Lab & Get the Newsletter: https://stereoforest.com Polyvagal Theory (Dr. Stephen Porges): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12302812Stanislavski Circles of Attention: https://www.theatreworkout.com/post/stanislavski-3-circles-of-attentionThe Still Face Experiment (Dr. Ed Tronick): https://www.gottman.com/blog/research-still-face-experiment Why Still Face was game changer - https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/tech-support/202307/why-the-still-face-experiment-was-a-game-changerStill Face Experiment and connection - https://psychhelp.com.au/what-does-the-still-face-experiment-teach-us-about-connection/Eyes as a Threat: https://psychcentral.com/health/identifying-psychopathic-stare#what-is-it Research on Eye Contact with the Camera: https://jov.arvojournals.org/article.aspx?articleid=2810811 "Dead Eyes" Podcast by Connor Ratliff: https://headgum.com/dead-eyesChapters00:00 The Disconnect: Why You Feel Awkward Recording01:25 Welcome to the Podcast Performance Lab01:47 Polyvagal Theory: The Social Engagement System03:25 The "Still Face" Experiment Explained05:35 Biology: Why the Lens Looks Like a Predator06:33 Acting Theory: Stanislavski's Circles of Attention08:41 The Personalization Technique: Speaking to One Person11:22 Drill: "Talk to the Face" (Using a Photo)14:36 Advanced Drill: Visualization & Scanning18:22 Recommendation: The "Dead Eyes" Podcast==========================About and Support==========================Written, edited, and...

If you edit out every breath, "um," and awkward pause because you think it makes you sound more professional, you are actually hurting your authority. Psychology shows that being "too perfect" triggers the Uncanny Valley effect and makes listeners distrust you.In this episode, we look at behavioural psychology (specifically the "Beautiful Mess Effect" and the "Pratfall Effect") to understand why humans who show vulnerability (with that voice you "hate"!) win more trust than those who polish everything. We explore the "pratfall" effect and how it applies to both improv and podcasting.You'll get the psychological facts about how audiences perceive mistakes and understand the importance of failure acceptance in creative fields. I give you an exercise you can try today to practice speaking, using your voice, for your next episode (and it also works great for webinars too).Get some podcasting tips, a useful exercise, and improve your content.Key Takeaways: How podcast editing generally handles errors, versus the spontaneous nature of improv.Why we view our own mistakes as weaknesses but view others' mistakes as courage (The Beautiful Mess Effect).How to use the "Pratfall Effect" to increase your likability as an expert.Why filler words like "um" are actually neurological signals that help your audience process complex ideas.My "Recovery Drill" to train your brain to speak continuously without stopping for mistakes.RESOURCES:Research on the Beautiful Mess Effect (Anna Bruk, University of Mannheim):https://www.bps.org.uk/research-digest/beautiful-mess-effect https://www.researchgate.net/publication/326743464_Beautiful_mess_effect_Self-other_differences_in_evaluation_of_showing_vulnerability Research on The Pratfall Effect:https://ofdblog.wordpress.ncsu.edu/2022/08/22/re-engage-with-your-students-by-being-more-authentic-and-showing-your-humanity/ (see references) https://lup.lub.lu.se/luur/download?func=downloadFile&recordOId=8970932&fileOId=8970933 Julia Cameron’s Morning Pages: https://juliacameronlive.com/On Filler Words as Signals: https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/insights/um-so-how-filler-words-can-be-effective-communication Episode on Improv and Failing (as fun!): https://youtu.be/RTN5KfE7GZ4 Join the Lab & Get the Newsletter:

Solo podcasting often gets a reputation for being "easy" because you don't have to coordinate with guests. But without a guest to bounce ideas off of, many hosts fall into the trap of rambling or becoming monotonous. You need a specific architecture to hold your audience's attention.In this episode, I break down the three primary structures of solo podcasting: The Storyteller, The Teacher, and The Commentator. Plus, learn about a fourth BONUS format.We explore the subtypes within these categories too, such as the "Historical Deep Dive" or the "Academic Explainer," and look at real-world examples of successful shows using these frameworks. You will learn how to identify which structure fits your goals and how to pivot your existing show to a stronger format.Here is what you will learn in this episode:The definition and goal of "The Storyteller" format (Narrative focus)How "The Teacher" format builds authority through logic and frameworksWhy "The Commentator" format builds the fastest trust with an audienceThe risks and rewards of blending multiple formats (Hybrid models)How to use a "Cold Open" to hook listeners immediatelyRESOURCES:Hardcore History (Dan Carlin): https://www.dancarlin.com/Lore (Aaron Mahnke): https://www.lorepodcast.com/History of Philosophy Without Any Gaps: https://historyofphilosophy.net/The History of Rome / Revolutions (Mike Duncan): https://thehistoryofrome.typepad.com/Think Media Podcast: https://youtube.com/@ThinkMediaPodcast and https://www.thinkmediapodcast.comYour Improv Brain (Jen deHaan): https://youtube.com/@YourImprovBrain and https://improvupdate.comThe Humanist Report: https://www.humanistreport.com/Monday Morning Podcast (Bill Burr): https://billburr.com/podcastBetter Online (Ed Zitron): https://www.czm.media/shows/better-offline

Full scripts can make you sound robotic, but winging it often leads to rambling and hours of painful editing. You need a middle ground that provides the safety of a script with the energy of a conversation.In this episode, I break down the system I use at StereoForest Studio to organize solo episodes. We move away from word-for-word reading and towards "extemporaneous speaking." This method uses specific bullet points and a rigid structure to keep you on track while allowing your natural personality to come through.Here is what you will learn in this episode:Why "winging it" actually increases your production costsThe definition of "Structured Spontaneity" and why you need itWhich parts of your episode must be fully scripted (and which shouldn't)How to use Main Points and Sub-Points to reduce cognitive loadYou will leave with a clear framework to organize your next recording session for maximum efficiency and engagement.RESOURCES:About reading scripts without sounding like you're reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O5F4RFcNoDwThe episode about solo formats: https://stereoforest.com/episodes/solo-podcast-formats-explained-storyteller-teacher-commentator/About extemporaneous speaking: https://courses.lumenlearning.com/suny-rockland-standupspeakout/chapter/four-methods-of-delivery/StereoForest: https://stereoforest.comCHAPTERS:00:00 The problem with winging it vs. full scripts02:40 Defining "Structured Spontaneity"03:14 Why structure creates freedom (The Improv connection)06:53 What is "Extemporaneous Speaking"?07:40 Part 1: Fully script the first 30 seconds09:32 Part 2: Main points and cognitive load10:12 Part 3: Sub-points for critical data11:51 Finding your personal level of detail12:45 Part 4: Fully script the Outro==========================About and Support==========================Written, edited, and hosted by Jen deHaan.Find this show on YouTube at https://youtube.com/@jdehaanWebsite at https://stereoforest.com/labGet StereoForest’s newsletter for podcasting resources at https://stereoforest.com/newsletterProduced by StereoForest https://stereoforest.comContact Jen at https://jendehaan.com==========================SupportYour support will help this show continue. Funds will go towards hosting and music licensing for this show and others on StereoForest. This show is produced by an independent HUMAN artist directly affected by the state of the industry. StereoForest does not have any funding or additional support.If you find value in our...

You have written the perfect script. But the moment you press record, your voice goes flat and you sound like you are reading a textbook. News anchors use teleprompters every day and sound natural, so why is it so hard for the rest of us?In this episode, I break down four specific techniques to fix that robotic delivery. We look at the trade-offs between reading word-for-word and improvising, and how each method impacts your editing time and cognitive load. I also share the specific method I use for my own shows to balance accuracy with a human connection.Here is what you will learn in this episode:The trade-off between natural delivery and post-production editing timeHow to use the "Look Down, Look Up" method for short-form contentTechniques for scan-reading a teleprompter effectivelyHow to use "Reference Cues" and bolding to anchor your memoryThe "Reference and Improvise" workflow for long-form episodesThe goal is to sound like the expert you are.Resources Mentioned:Previous episode on script formatting:Podcast: https://stereoforest.com/episodes/solo-podcasting-workflow-voice-to-final-script/Video: https://youtu.be/LixDbzNYRXEAnchor words: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1244288/fullNewsletter: https://StereoForest.com/newsletterCHAPTERS00:00 The problem with reading scripts02:22 Balancing delivery vs. editing time03:57 Method 1: Look down, look up (Short-term memory)05:26 Method 2: Scan reading (News anchor style)06:50 Method 3: Reference cues (Anchoring)10:24 Method 4: Reference and improvise12:31 Choosing the right technique for you==========================About and Support==========================Written, edited, and hosted by Jen deHaan.Find this show on YouTube at https://youtube.com/@jdehaanWebsite at https://stereoforest.com/labGet StereoForest’s newsletter for podcasting resources at https://stereoforest.com/newsletterProduced by StereoForest https://stereoforest.comContact Jen at https://jendehaan.com==========================SupportYour support will help this show continue. Funds will go towards hosting and music licensing for this show and others on StereoForest. This show is produced by an independent HUMAN artist directly affected by the state of the industry. StereoForest does not have any funding or additional support.If you find value in our shows, please consider supporting them with a one time donation at a...

In this episode, I share the system I use at StereoForest to bridge the gap between writing and speaking for your solo podcast. And I‘ll help you understand the "modality mismatch" concept and why it’s important for scripting your episodes.What you learn in this episode:Why traditional writing styles create a disconnect with podcast listenersThe science behind "modality mismatch" and how the brain processes spoken textHow vocal dynamics and variety directly influence perceived authorityThe three-step system to write scripts that sound natural/humanI cover a workflow you can use immediately for forming your solo scripts that includes dictation, signposting (discourse markers) and performer formatting and why they help your recordings.Resources mentioned:Vocal dynamics:https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/communication/articles/10.3389/fcomm.2020.611555/fullhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4765198/https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/insights/big-data-approach-public-speakinghttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6662577/Voice to text (no affiliation with any of em - I use MacWhisper, Things, and Notion):Mac Whisper: https://goodsnooze.gumroad.com/l/macwhisperWhisper Notes: https://whispernotes.app/Flow: https://wisprflow.ai/Google Keep: https://keep.google.com/Notion: https://www.notion.com/Things (my fave to do app): https://culturedcode.com/things/Otter AI: https://otter.ai/Granola AI: https://www.granola.ai/StereoForest newsletter: https://stereoforest.com/subscribeChapters: 00:00 The problem with sounding like a bot01:53 The science of monotonous delivery03:55 Step 1: Dictate your notes05:12 Understanding modality mismatch08:38 Step 2: Add signposts for the listener11:24 Step 3: Format the script for performance13:03 Visual example of script formatting15:02 Summary and next steps==========================About and Support==========================Written, edited, and hosted by Jen deHaan.Find this show on YouTube at https://youtube.com/@jdehaanWebsite at https://stereoforest.com/labGet StereoForest’s newsletter for podcasting resources at https://stereoforest.com/newsletterProduced by StereoForest https://stereoforest.comContact Jen at https://jendehaan.com==========================SupportYour support will help this show continue. Funds will go towards hosting and music licensing for this show and others on StereoForest. This show is produced by an independent HUMAN artist directly affected by the state of the industry. StereoForest does not have any funding or additional support.If you find value in our shows, please consider supporting them with a one time donation at https://stereoforest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up...

In this show we take the most effective tools from improv performance and behavioural psychology, and apply them directly to your video and audio content. If you're building a personal brand, B2B show, or a creative new podcast, you know how you say things matters just as much as what you say.What to expect:Psychology of Presence: Why listeners trust some voices and tune out others (and how to fix "flat" audio).Unscripted Strategy & Exercises: How to speak naturally using tools from improv & behavioural science.Production Strategy: Systems for video podcasting that don't burn you out.Host: Jen deHaan is the founder of StereoForest. With a background of over 20 years in tech, education, & instructional design and 10 years in improv and performance, Jen brings systems and scientific approach to media production.More info: https://www.stereoforest.com/lab==========================About and Support==========================Written, edited, and hosted by Jen deHaan.Find this show on YouTube at https://youtube.com/@jdehaanWebsite at https://stereoforest.com/labGet StereoForest’s newsletter for podcasting resources at https://stereoforest.com/newsletterProduced by StereoForest https://stereoforest.comContact Jen at https://jendehaan.com==========================SupportYour support will help this show continue. Funds will go towards hosting and music licensing for this show and others on StereoForest. This show is produced by an independent HUMAN artist directly affected by the state of the industry. StereoForest does not have any funding or additional support.If you find value in our shows, please consider supporting them with a one time donation at https://stereoforest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzTranscriptions by MacWhisper. I use and love the Pro version (subscription free!) - you can get it too using this link: https://gumroad.com/a/20303251/ivpqkSchedule posts? We use Metricool (reasonable for multiple accounts/brands), and you can support using our link: https://f.mtr.cool/VZBOZRSupport the show and get creative templates and assets: https://share.uppbeat.io/p4od8inwhc2j==========================About JenHost: Jen deHaan is the founder of StereoForest. With a background of over 20 years in tech, education, & instructional design and 10 years in improv and performance, Jen brings systems and scientific approach to media production.Jen's website: https://jendehaan.comThis podcast is a StereoForest production. Made and produced in British Columbia, Canada.

Note: This episode was recorded when this show was known as Human Internet Theory. There's a disconnect in the conversation about AI regulation. While gov't focuses on labeling AI-generated output (like deepfakes), creative professionals are concerned about the copyrighted input used to train these models without permission or compensation.You'll learn: the latest AI content labeling laws in India, China, and the EU.breaking news from Australia, which is rejecting a "fair use" style exemption for AI training data.difference between government focus (labeling, misinformation) and creative pro focus (unauthorized data scraping).about the 82+ copyright lawsuits filed against AI companies.Sources:Australia status:https://ministers.ag.gov.au/media-centre/albanese-government-ensure-australia-prepared-future-copyright-challenges-emerging-ai-26-10-2025https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-10-27/labor-rules-out-ai-training-copyright-exceptions/105935740India status:https://indianexpress.com/article/business/creators-mandatorily-declare-upload-ai-content-online-draft-rules-10320467/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/spotlight/harness-the-future-of-technology-with-ai-and-ml-mastery-from-this-programme-by-iitm-pravartak/articleshow/118107365.cmsChina status:https://mlq.ai/news/china-implements-sweeping-mandatory-ai-content-labeling-law/https://harris-sliwoski.com/chinalawblog/chinas-new-ai-labeling-rules-what-every-china-business-needs-to-know/https://www.chinalegalexperts.com/news/china-deep-synthesis-regulation

Note: This episode was recorded when this show was known as Human Internet Theory. A top venture capital firm is funding one company to create thousands of fake AI influencers, after also funding another company that builds tech to detect them. This is the new "synthetic social web," an emerging industry that is targeting the work of human creative professionals.Which is what this channel is about: the changing landscape of online and the creative professional industry.In this episode, you'll learn about:Doublespeed AI, the A16Z-backed company with the tagline "never pay a human again."The "disease and the cure" investment strategy involving the detection company, Doppel.The new wave of startups (like MakeUGC and Creatify AI) built to create fake, synthetic user generated content.The distinction between "tools" and "services" that aim to replace human labor entirely.The impact of this on the jobs creative professionals and the loss of authenticity online.This episode breaks down the companies and business models that are replacing human writers, editors, and creators, and explains what is at stake for the future of the human internet.Mentioned in this video (references and sources): Doublespeed AI https://doublespeed.aiDoppel: https://www.doppel.comVC Firm: Andreessen Horowitz (A16Z) and doublespeed: https://speedrun.a16z.com/companies/doublespeedA16Z and Doppel: https://a16z.com/announcement/investing-in-doppelReport: 404 Media on Double Speed https://www.404media.co/a16z-backed-startup-sells-thousands-of-synthetic-influencers-to-manipulate-social-media-as-a-servicePodcast Source: Double Speed founder on phone farms https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMO0VYTBC7UHigh school students: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-10-27/teens-struggle-to-tell-if-social-media-videos-are-real-or-ai/105924186Synthetic generated UGC Startups:https://Creatify.aihttps://Zeely.aihttps://Arcads.aihttps://Tagshop.ai

Note: This episode was recorded when this show was known as Human Internet Theory. Maybe you've heard of "power posing" as a quick fix for confidence. The science behind that famous idea has (kind of) been retracted. In this episode of Human Internet Theory, I look into what happened to the power pose, why the simple "life hack" model failed, and what the latest science says now.This episode covers:* The history of the original power pose study and its retraction* What current research says about postural feedback.* The small, subjective effect your posture might have on your mood.* Why a "neutral pose" may be more beneficial than an "expansive" one.The episode includes three exercises you can use before and during your next recording session. You will practice finding your "baseline neutral pose," learn a "physical anchoring" technique to get grounded, and integrate "dynamic posture" with your natural gestures. This episode gives you a realistic, evidence-based approach to improving your physical presence and confidence on camera.RESOURCES:Gesturing while speakingNeck flexion study (June 2025)50% is slopCarney's retractionPower poses don't workHuman Internet Theory Newsletter ==========================About and Support==========================Written, edited, and hosted by Jen deHaan.Find this show on YouTube at https://youtube.com/@jdehaanWebsite at https://stereoforest.com/labGet StereoForest’s newsletter for podcasting resources at https://stereoforest.com/newsletterProduced by StereoForest https://stereoforest.comContact Jen at https://jendehaan.com==========================SupportYour support will help this show continue. Funds will go towards hosting and music licensing for this show and others on StereoForest. This show is produced by an independent HUMAN artist directly affected by the state of the industry. StereoForest does not have any funding or additional support.If you find value in our shows, please consider supporting them with a one time donation at

Note: This episode was recorded when this show was known as Human Internet Theory. In this episode of Human Internet Theory, I explore the science behind why a human voice connects with listeners in a way an AI voice cannot. Recent brain scan studies show that our brains work harder and remember more when listening to a human speak vs an AI voice. I break down what this means for you as a small business owner, marketer, or digital educator and how you can use this knowledge to make your instructional content more effective.I go over the core components of vocal expression, including speech rate, cadence, prosody, and intonation. Understanding these elements is the first step to controlling them and creating a delivery that feels authentic and engaging. I share some history from composer R. Murray Schafer, whose work on "soundscapes" changed how I perceive the voice as a musical instrument.You'll get a checklist you can use to analyze your own recordings and identify areas for improvement. I also walk you through three specific exercises for pace control, rhythm, and pitch variation. These drills are designed to help you add more variety to your delivery, hold your audience's attention, and build a stronger connection with every episode you produce.Resources Mentioned:Previous Episode on Words Per Minute: On YouTubeFrontiers in Psychology Study (Human vs. AI Voice): StudyBook: "When Words Sing" by R. Murray Schafer: On Open LibraryFree PDF Download: "Vocal Expression Booklet" at https://humaninternettheory.com==========================About and Support==========================Written, edited, and hosted by Jen deHaan.Find this show on YouTube at https://youtube.com/@jdehaanWebsite at https://stereoforest.com/labGet StereoForest’s newsletter for podcasting resources at https://stereoforest.com/newsletterProduced by StereoForest https://stereoforest.comContact Jen at https://jendehaan.com==========================SupportYour support will help this show continue. Funds will go towards hosting and music licensing for this show and others on StereoForest. This show is produced by an independent HUMAN artist directly affected by the state of the industry. StereoForest does not have any funding or additional support.If you find value in our shows, please consider supporting them with a one time donation at https://stereoforest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to...

Note: This episode was recorded when this show was known as Human Internet Theory. You might be missing one of the most important parts of storytelling in your videos and podcasts. It is something we use all the time in improv comedy and character development. You have probably heard how important storytelling is for connecting with your audience, but a key part of that process is sharing your own unique, clear point of view.In this episode, I explain what a point of view (POV) is and how it applies to both fiction and nonfiction content. Your POV is your unique way of seeing the world, and it becomes the "why" behind your content. It is what makes you, a human, different from generic, generated AI content that often lacks a unique perspective. A clear POV makes your content more believable, consistent, and helps you build a genuine connection with your audience.I will also give you three practical exercises that you can use today to define your own POV. These exercises will help you start applying your POV to your content strategy right away.==========================About and Support==========================Written, edited, and hosted by Jen deHaan.Find this show on YouTube at https://youtube.com/@jdehaanWebsite at https://stereoforest.com/labGet StereoForest’s newsletter for podcasting resources at https://stereoforest.com/newsletterProduced by StereoForest https://stereoforest.comContact Jen at https://jendehaan.com==========================SupportYour support will help this show continue. Funds will go towards hosting and music licensing for this show and others on StereoForest. This show is produced by an independent HUMAN artist directly affected by the state of the industry. StereoForest does not have any funding or additional support.If you find value in our shows, please consider supporting them with a one time donation at https://stereoforest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzTranscriptions by MacWhisper. I use and love the Pro version (subscription free!) - you can get it too using this link: https://gumroad.com/a/20303251/ivpqkSchedule posts? We use Metricool (reasonable for multiple accounts/brands), and you can support using our link: https://f.mtr.cool/VZBOZRSupport the show and get creative templates and assets: https://share.uppbeat.io/p4od8inwhc2j==========================About JenHost: Jen deHaan is the founder of StereoForest. With a background of over 20 years in tech, education, & instructional design and 10 years in improv and performance, Jen brings systems and scientific approach to media production.Jen's website: https://jendehaan.comThis podcast is a StereoForest production. Made and produced in British Columbia, Canada.Mentioned in this episode:Podcast Performance LabThis episode was released prior...

Note: This episode was recorded when this show was known as Human Internet Theory. Generative AI video reached a turning point during these past couple weeks when it became free and accessible to everyone through new apps from OpenAI, YouTube, Meta, and Google. These tools are being aimed squarely at social media (for now, anyway), and this will fundamentally change what we see in our feeds and search results. In this video, I break down exactly what has happened with tools like Sora 2 and Googles Veo 3 model. And Meta Vibes too, I guess.We will look at the serious consequences of this change on both the Internet and human creativity. I explain the true creative process, which involves iteration, deep thinking, and subconscious connections, and I discuss why replacing this process with AI prompts is a problem for humans. This is a look at what we are creating, what we are losing, and what we need to do to support a more human internet.RESOURCESJoin the newsletter: https://humaninternettheory.comAbout Sora 2 app release: https://openai.com/index/sora-2/ and https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/openai-sora-social-media-1.7647945Sora 2 and copyright backtracking: https://copyrightlately.com/openai-backtracks-sora-opt-out-copyright-policy/Meta Vibes: https://about.fb.com/news/2025/09/introducing-vibes-ai-videos/ and https://www.meta.ai/vibesYouTube shorts gets generated video: https://blog.youtube/news-and-events/generative-ai-creation-tools-made-on-youtube-2025/Inception point AI (Podnews interview): https://youtu.be/FuS1BmN6zyY and text: https://podcastbusinessjournal.com/interviews/jeanine-wright/Suno V5 update: https://help.suno.com/en/articles/8105153Tilly Norwood: https://slate.com/technology/2025/10/openai-sam-altman-sora-ai-actor-tilly-norwood-hollywood.htmlDeepfakes:

Note: This episode was recorded when this show was known as Human Internet Theory. In this episode, I offer a different approach to "adding more charisma" (that's certainly a loaded phrase...) for your videos and podcasts. Here I'm thinking of personality kinda like a multi-channel audio mixer. The goal is not to turn up the volume on everything (all the channels) at once, or throw it away to create a new, fake persona. The goal is to find the right mix of your genuine traits, and turn up the volume on some of them.I introduce four key principles that form the foundation of authentic charisma. These are authenticity, humble confidence, realistic problem solving, and curiosity. I explain what each of these principles means and how you can apply them to your on-camera or on-microphone presence.To help you put this into practice, I also walk you through a simple acting exercise. This exercise is designed to help you find and feel your unique energy in your own body, away from the pressure of the camera while you figure out what channels to use. Oof that analogy.Resources Mentioned:On authenticity (Psychology Today)Persona worksheet on Human Internet Theory"Power posing" - and the back and forth debate by experts (I found more after making this episode!)==========================About and Support==========================Written, edited, and hosted by Jen deHaan.Find this show on YouTube at https://youtube.com/@jdehaanWebsite at https://stereoforest.com/labGet StereoForest’s newsletter for podcasting resources at https://stereoforest.com/newsletterProduced by StereoForest https://stereoforest.comContact Jen at https://jendehaan.com==========================SupportYour support will help this show continue. Funds will go towards hosting and music licensing for this show and others on StereoForest. This show is produced by an independent HUMAN artist directly affected by the state of the industry. StereoForest does not have any funding or additional support.If you find value in our shows, please consider supporting them with a one time donation at https://stereoforest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzTranscriptions by MacWhisper. I use and love the Pro version (subscription free!) - you can get it too using this link: https://gumroad.com/a/20303251/ivpqkSchedule posts? We use Metricool...

Note: This episode was recorded when this show was known as Human Internet Theory. The internet is quickly filling up with AI-generated content, including marketing that uses realistic AI avatars. Avatars, digital humans, can look and sound realistic and not have bad hair like me. In this episode, I explore the complex psychology of trust in the age of AI which gets into some of the hidden costs involved in using avatars and generated content.I end the episode with three practical ways you can adjust your content in this new era by leaning into your humanity to build trust.These episodes are recorded as a video. You can find the videos here on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@humaninternettheoryResources Mentioned:Masahiro Mori's original essay on the Uncanny Valley (accepted translation): https://spectrum.ieee.org/the-uncanny-valleyThe 2018 study on the Uncanny Valley: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29704523/Elliot Aronson's 1966 study on the Pratfall Effect: https://link.springer.com/article/10.3758/BF03342263Social comparison study related to Pratfall effect: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2010-04558-004MarTech article on the AI trust gap: https://martech.org/marketers-turn-to-ai-for-speed-while-consumers-turn-away-in-distrust/Paper on deception in computer-mediated communication: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/313859197_Deception_in_computer-mediated_communicationHuman Internet Theory newsletter and free worksheet: https://humaninternettheory.comEpisode on improv and the self-critic: https://stereoforest.com/episodes/a-3-step-system-for-managing-self-criticism-in-improv/=============================About and Support==========================Written, edited, and hosted by Jen deHaan.Find this show on YouTube at https://youtube.com/@jdehaanWebsite at https://stereoforest.com/labGet StereoForest’s newsletter for podcasting resources at

Note: This episode was recorded when this show was known as Human Internet Theory. Sometime, somewhere, you probably heard the advice to "just be yourself" when you are presenting or making videos, podcasts, or any other kind of presentation. For many of us this advice can still lead to feeling stiff or fake on camera or behind the microphone. In this episode, I explain why all communication is a form of performance (and also why that is not a bad thing!)I borrow a concept from the world of acting to help you think about this differently. You are still YOU using this method... just a version of you adapted for the context of educating or connecting with your audience however you need to.I also discuss the main difference between performing for a stage and performing for the intimacy of a camera. I go through the process of defining your own unique business character and to help you put all of this into practice, I created a free downloadable worksheet that will guide you linked below.Resources Mentioned:Worksheet available free at HumanInternetTheory.com=======================================================About and Support==========================Written, edited, and hosted by Jen deHaan.Find this show on YouTube at https://youtube.com/@jdehaanWebsite at https://stereoforest.com/labGet StereoForest’s newsletter for podcasting resources at https://stereoforest.com/newsletterProduced by StereoForest https://stereoforest.comContact Jen at https://jendehaan.com==========================SupportYour support will help this show continue. Funds will go towards hosting and music licensing for this show and others on StereoForest. This show is produced by an independent HUMAN artist directly affected by the state of the industry. StereoForest does not have any funding or additional support.If you find value in our shows, please consider supporting them with a one time donation at https://stereoforest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzTranscriptions by MacWhisper. I use and love the Pro version (subscription free!) - you can get it too using this link: https://gumroad.com/a/20303251/ivpqkSchedule posts? We use Metricool (reasonable for multiple accounts/brands), and you can support using our link: https://f.mtr.cool/VZBOZRSupport the show and get creative templates and assets: https://share.uppbeat.io/p4od8inwhc2j==========================About JenHost: Jen deHaan is the founder of StereoForest. With a background of over 20 years in tech, education, & instructional design and 10 years in improv and performance, Jen brings systems and scientific approach to media production.Jen's website:

Note: This episode was recorded when this show was known as Human Internet Theory. If you have ever felt that wave of anxiety when you hit the record button, I want you to know you are not alone. In this episode, I talk about why so many of us are camera shy. I won't tell you to "fake it till you make it" in this one. Because I think it is more helpful to first understand the real reason behind this feeling!I explain the science of why our brains react this way, which is a natural human response connected to a deep-seated fear of social judgment.Once we understand "the why", we can build a practical plan to get comfortable. I walk you through a step-by-step process called desensitization. This method is all about starting small, and gradually building your skills and confidence. I share specific, low-stakes ways to begin practicing. The goal here is to create a personalized plan that works for you, allowing you to get your practice in and be forgiving with yourself along the way.Resources Mentioned:Newsletter (with free workbook download!) at HumanInternetTheory.com============================================About and Support==========================Written, edited, and hosted by Jen deHaan.Find this show on YouTube at https://youtube.com/@jdehaanWebsite at https://stereoforest.com/labGet StereoForest’s newsletter for podcasting resources at https://stereoforest.com/newsletterProduced by StereoForest https://stereoforest.comContact Jen at https://jendehaan.com==========================SupportYour support will help this show continue. Funds will go towards hosting and music licensing for this show and others on StereoForest. This show is produced by an independent HUMAN artist directly affected by the state of the industry. StereoForest does not have any funding or additional support.If you find value in our shows, please consider supporting them with a one time donation at https://stereoforest.com/tipWe love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytzTranscriptions by MacWhisper. I use and love the Pro version (subscription free!) - you can get it too using this link: https://gumroad.com/a/20303251/ivpqkSchedule posts? We use Metricool (reasonable for multiple accounts/brands), and you can support using our link: https://f.mtr.cool/VZBOZRSupport the show and get creative templates and assets: https://share.uppbeat.io/p4od8inwhc2j==========================About JenHost: Jen deHaan is the founder of StereoForest. With a background of over 20 years in tech, education, & instructional design and 10 years in improv and performance, Jen brings systems and scientific approach to media production.Jen's website:

Note: This episode was recorded when this show was known as Human Internet Theory. Welcome to the first episode of the Human Internet Theory.In this episode, I introduce the core idea behind this entire show. I'm responding to something you've probably noticed yourself... which is the huge increase in AI-generated content online. This idea has a name, the "Dead Internet Theory," which suggests that much of the internet is no longer human but is instead populated by bots: both generated and automated content. With recent news about thousands of AI-generated podcasts being created every week, this theory feels more real than ever.I believe we, as creators, marketers, and educators, need a positive way to move forward. My response is the Human Internet Theory. It's an approach to creating content that focuses on what makes us unique: our thoughts, our point of view, our creativity, and our ability to truly communicate and connect. This show is about making things with a soul.I'll be your host, Jen deHaan. With my background in technology and education, plus a decade of experience as a performer, I'm here to help you. We will explore how to be more human in a digital world. I’ll share practical steps to build your confidence, find your natural voice on camera or audio, and build real trust with your audience. This show is for you if you want to make your message more human and stand out in the sea of generated content.Join me as we work to keep the internet a place for real human connection.Join the Human Internet Theory newsletter & get a FREE workbook to help you create your business persona. https://humaninternettheory.com to grab the PDF.This is just the introduction! I have another two episodes released so you can get started today.==========================RESOURCES MENTIONED==========================Paper on Dead Internet Theory: https://arxiv.org/abs/2502.00007About Sam Altman's Tweet: https://www.forbes.com/sites/danidiplacido/2025/09/05/sam-altman-is-starting-to-see-the-dead-internet-theory/AI-Generated Podcasts Article: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/ai-podcast-start-up-plan-shows-1236361367/Dan Koe on the Meaning Economy: https://youtu.be/ni04Zp7mUMMVisit my website for more: https://humaninternettheory.comProduced by: https://stereoforest.com====================================================About and Support==========================Written, edited, and hosted by Jen deHaan.Find this show on YouTube at https://youtube.com/@jdehaanWebsite at https://stereoforest.com/labGet StereoForest’s newsletter for podcasting resources at https://stereoforest.com/newsletterProduced by StereoForest