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The Visual Lounge

The Visual Lounge

Discussions about the power of visuals and videos and how to make them even better.

TechSmith Corporation

286 episodesEN

Show overview

The Visual Lounge has been publishing since 2020, and across the 6 years since has built a catalogue of 286 episodes, alongside 2 trailers or bonus episodes. That works out to roughly 190 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a weekly cadence.

Episodes typically run thirty-five to sixty minutes — most land between 30 min and 50 min — though episode length varies meaningfully from one episode to the next. It is catalogued as a EN-language Education show.

The show is actively publishing — the most recent episode landed yesterday, with 15 episodes already out so far this year. The busiest year was 2021, with 79 episodes published. Published by TechSmith Corporation.

Episodes
286
Running
2020–2026 · 6y
Median length
38 min
Cadence
Weekly

From the publisher

Visuals and videos are powerful, but creating them can feel overwhelming. Yet they are essential to creating content that impacts understanding, helps improve communication, and can save you and the viewers time and money. The Visual Lounge is a place where we talk about creating and using visuals and videos for all sorts of communication. Whether you’re creating a course to help your organization roll out new software, an educator learning to better communicate with your students, or a marketer helping your customers see the impact of your product, our conversations will help see how visuals can impact your work. Listen in as Matt Pierce, Learning & Video Ambassador, leads you through a variety of conversations with industry guests and experts. You’ll get practical advice and insights to help you to create better and more impactful images and videos.

Latest Episodes

View all 286 episodes

Why Video Still Feels Hard (and How Small Teams Make It Work)

May 13, 202610 min

Turn Zoom Recordings Into Training Videos That Work

May 6, 202623 min

From Order Taker to Strategic Partner with Tracie Cantu

Apr 29, 202632 min

How to Tell Better Visual Stories (That Actually Connect) with Stuart Cohen

Apr 15, 202630 min

Ep 283From Med School to 350K+ Subscribers: Teaching That Actually Works

Teaching isn’t the reward you get after you’ve learned something. For Taim Dawod, it’s been the learning method itself.In this episode, we revisit a conversation with Taim Dawod, a medical doctor from Norway who started a medical education YouTube channel in his first year of med school, with no experience in video, editing, or teaching online. What started as a way to make anatomy easier to study for himself grew into a channel with hundreds of thousands of subscribers.The conversation gets into how Taim’s visual way of learning shapes everything he creates, and why adding animations was the moment his audience really started to connect. He also talks about working through a full medical curriculum one topic at a time alongside hospital shifts.He walks through his 7-step process for making medical education videos. And his approach to consistency is simpler than you’d think. One hour a day, even if it’s just one sentence, is what keeps him going.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 – 01:48 Intro01:49 – 02:33 Taim’s background as a medical doctor and content creator02:34 – 04:12 Taim’s #1 tip: start without experience04:13 – 07:20 Why the channel started as a visual learning tool07:21 – 11:37 The turning point: animations and 3D visuals11:38 – 17:10 Choosing topics and working through a curriculum17:11 – 21:25 Taim’s 7-step process for creating educational videos21:26 – 26:27 Building a sustainable habit: one hour a day26:28 – 28:57 Tips for aspiring educational content creators28:58 – 36:17 Speed round questions36:18 – 37:44 Taim’s final take and where to find him37:45 – 38:44 OutroImportant links and mentions:Subscribe to Taim’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TaimTalksMedFollow Taim on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taimtalksmed/Learn more about Camtasia: https://www.techsmith.com/camtasia/

Apr 8, 202638 min

Ep 282What the Global L&D Survey Reveals About the Future of Learning (with Donald Taylor)

We’re in a pivotal moment for learning and development. But is the industry ready for what comes next?In this episode of The Visual Lounge, Matt sits down with Donald Taylor to unpack the latest findings from the Global Sentiment Survey, one of the longest-running studies tracking trends in L&D, which he co-authored.With nearly 3,800 responses from over 100 countries, this year’s survey reveals how the conversation around AI is changing. The rapid rise hasn’t stopped, but it has slowed, and what’s emerging in its place is quite complex.AI still leads as the top trend, but the conversation is shifting. Concerns around job security, ethics, and long-term impact are becoming harder to ignore, while the pressure to prove value is rising fast. At the same time, areas like learning analytics are starting to slip.Throughout the discussion, Matt and Donald unpack what’s driving both the excitement and the uncertainty, from that growing need to demonstrate impact, to why some of the most traditionally important areas are also the ones being left behind.They also dig into what this moment means in practice. Not just how AI is being used day to day, but how it’s starting to reshape the role of L&D itself.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 - 00:35 - Intro00:35 - 01:40 - What is the Global Sentiment Survey?01:40 - 02:46 - Why the rise of AI is starting to slow down02:46 - 04:27 - Rising survey annual response rates and what they tell us04:27 - 06:52 - How AI in L&D is currently being used06:52 - 10:09 - AI in L&D: the drivers behind industry pushback and excitement10:09 - 13:43 - How priorities in L&D are changing13:43 - 15:33 - The rising pressure on professionals15:33 - 18:57 - Marketing in L&D and predictions of a data-driven future18:57 - 21:13 - Why “showing value” is paramount today21:13 - 24:52 - The core groups of respondents for the Global Sentiment Survey24:52 - 26:29 - Next steps and future plans for the Global Sentiment Survey26:29 - 27:28 - Tracking global trends within the L&D industry27:28 - 31:20 - Navigating emerging industry shifts31:20 - 32:20 - Donald’s final take32:20 - 33:05 Matt’s outroImportant links and mentions:Connect with Donald Taylor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donaldhtaylor/Visit Donald Taylor’s website: https://www.donaldhtaylor.co.ukCheck out the 2026 Global Sentiment Survey Report: https://donaldhtaylor.co.uk/research_base/global-sentiment-survey-2026/

Apr 1, 202633 min

Ep 281How Project Managers Can Use Video to Save Time and Improve Communication

What if video could shave 20 minutes off your leadership meetings and help your team come prepared with the right questions?In this episode, Matt sits down with Chris King, Principal Consultant at CRK Learning LLC, to explore how project managers working in L&D can use video to communicate more effectively.Chris manages a multimillion-dollar e-learning project with a team of around 25 people, and he’s found that recording video walkthroughs of spreadsheets, creating how-to videos for SMEs, and sharing quick video updates in place of emails can transform how a project runs.The conversation covers Chris’s take on the three core types of PM communication, the tools he relies on day-to-day, and why working with the right team matters as much as having the right process.Chris also shares his thoughts on using visuals in presentations, why he prefers icons and process flows over cinematic imagery, and what the future of AI-driven video could look like in learning experiences.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 – 00:48 Introduction00:48 – 01:27 Chris’s background and PMP certification01:27 – 03:12 Being a ‘gist person’ as a project manager03:12 – 05:41 The three types of project management communication05:41 – 07:07 Chris' preferred tools: ClickUp, Excel, PowerPoint, and Slack07:07 – 09:05 Using video for project reports and leadership meetings09:05 – 10:42 Using video to onboard subject matter experts10:42 – 12:55 How teams respond to video communication12:55 – 16:16 Visuals in presentations, AI image generation, and Chris’s visual style16:16 – 18:07 Experimenting with AI video in practice modules18:07 – 20:39 Using video like an email and advice for the hesitant20:39 – 23:13 Speed round23:13 – 24:03 How to connect with Chris24:03 – 24:23 Chris’s final take24:23 OutroImportant links and mentions:Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kingpin/Learn more about Camtasia: https://www.techsmith.com/camtasia/Explore Snagit: https://www.techsmith.com/snagit/Learn more about Audiate: https://www.techsmith.com/camtasia/audiate/

Mar 18, 202625 min

Ep 280Cognitive Science & Choosing the Right Media for Learning with Clark Quinn

How can you use the cognitive properties of media for the best training and learning outcomes?Whether you’re in training, in learning development, or you’re a creator making videos for your own YouTube channel, learning and understanding are non-negotiable.This idea especially rings true in an age when people consume media across an ever-expanding variety of channels. How do you hold their attention? How do you present information in a way that people truly understand?Dr Clark Quinn, PHD provides learning experiences and design strategies to corporations, higher education institutions, government, and not-for-profit organizations. In this revisited episode of The Visual Lounge, he dives deep into cognitive media and how to create meaningful learning experiences.He also talks about how to transpose your knowledge into the media you make, and why creating video for video’s sake rarely achieves the best outcomes.Join us (or rejoin us) for a greater understanding of how to integrate thinking and learning with technology to improve organizational execution, innovation and, of course, performance.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 - 01:10 Dr Quinn’s perspective on cognitive science01:10 - 03:09 Matt’s intro03:09 - 04:33 When and when not to use video for the best outcomes04:33 - 06:19 Making media choices that communicate your story in the best compelling way06:19 - 11:04 Understanding and applying dynamic and static cognitive properties11:04 - 16:08 Improving learning outcomes by giving context and examples16:08 - 20:57 Should you use video templates that can be repurposed?20:57 - 25:11 Other things to know and consider about cognitive properties25:11 - 28:55 How to iterate what you’ve created effectively28:55 - 33:16 Speed round questions33:16 - 36:52 OutroImportant links and mentions:Check out Dr Clark Quinn’s website: https://www.quinnovation.comFollow Clark’s blog: https://blog.learnlets.comConnect with Clark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/quinnovator/

Mar 11, 202636 min

Ep 279Why Facts Don’t Stick (And Stories Do): How to Make Training, Presentations, & Videos More Memorable

What makes a story actually stick? And why do so many professionals get it wrong?In this episode, host Matt Pierce sits down with Gabrielle Dolan, global business storytelling expert and author of eight books, to unpack why storytelling is one of the most underused skills in any professional's toolkit and what to do about it.Gabrielle shares why personal stories outperform facts and data every time, how to overcome the fear of being "too vulnerable" at work, and the simple rules that separate a forgettable story from one people retell for years.She also offers practical tips on how to start and end a story well, why authenticity is non-negotiable, and how even a short, imperfect attempt is always better than no story at all.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 – 01:58 Intro01:58 – 04:13 Gabrielle’s origin story04:13 – 06:55 What is the essence of a good story?06:55 – 08:43 An example of storytelling in action08:43 – 11:10 Using stories to help people understand, remember and retell11:10 – 14:35 How to use visuals in storytelling14:35 – 18:27 Why vulnerability is scary, but worth it18:27 – 20:16 The power of sharing stories around values in business20:16 – 23:11 Why you should share stories about mistakes23:11 – 26:41 Tips for telling stories well26:41 – 30:40 Speed round questions30:40 – 32:48 Matt’s final take and outroImportant links and mentions:Connect with Gabrielle Dolan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielledolan/Follow Gabrielle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabrielledolan.1/Subscribe to Gabrielle on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KeepingItRealwithJacandRalCheck out Gabrielle’s website: https://gabrielledolan.com/

Mar 4, 202632 min

Ep 278How to Script Learning Videos That People Actually Watch

Are you struggling to script engaging training videos? Or maybe viewers are getting confused, and you’re not quite sure how to hold people’s attention long enough to deliver any value.In this episode, host Matt Pierce shares his tips for writing training video scripts that keep viewers engaged. Drawing on years of scriptwriting experience, Matt breaks down the fundamentals of writing a strong hook to building an outline that reinforces the value and learning goals from start to finish.Matt touches on when and how to use AI while writing training video scripts. He explains how AI can help check your structure and flow, spot missing information, remove redundancy, or get you past the first blank page.You’ll also learn two key principles for writing and recording better training videos, how to edit your work, and the importance of creating human-centred content, even if you do use AI tools to speed up your workflow.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 – 01:34 Intro01:34 – 01:54 Using AI for writing scripts01:54 – 06:22 How to write compelling hooks for videos06:22 – 08:16 Creating a strong structure and flow08:16 – 09:01 Using AI prompts in your scripting process09:01 – 11:18 Why your videos need to be easy to follow11:18 – 13:00 Adding your outcomes to your video script13:00 – 13:44 Why it’s important to always double-check your instructions13:44 – 15:44 What’s in it for your audience and reinforcing value15:44 – 17:29 Using specific phrases for signaling17:29 – 18:20 Using the personalization principle18:20 – 19:25 Using the “Hey Mom” principle19:25 – 20:32 Checking your script for redundancy and jargon20:32 – 21:57 Be ruthless with your editing21:57 – 23:12 Adding your call-to-action23:12 – 24:36 Bringing humanity into your scripts24:36 – 25:22 Matt’s final take25:22 – 26:07 OutroImportant links and mentions:Learn more about the Human Framework for AI training videos: https://www.techsmith.com/blog/human-framework-for-ai-training-videos/

Feb 18, 202626 min

Ep 277What People Really See When You’re on Camera

When you’re on camera, people decide how much they trust you a lot faster than you realize.In this episode, we revisit a conversation with Peter Hopwood, a speaking coach who works with presenters, sales teams, founders, and TEDx presenters on how to be more confident and credible on screen. Peter shares what helps people connect through a camera, especially when the usual in-person cues aren’t there.The conversation covers why curiosity is key to building trust, how voice and small physical movements influence engagement, and why many people misread audience reactions in virtual settings.Peter also shares practical advice on eye contact, standing versus sitting, recording yourself to improve, and avoiding common distractions that can undermine your credibility without you even noticing.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 - 01:29 Intro01:29 - 04:22 Peter’s roots in the industry04:22 - 09:23 Defining success on camera09:23 - 13:50 Peter’s one tip for being on camera13:50 -18:25 Why is trust so important on video?18:25 - 23:43 Defining the role of visual aids23:43 - 27:07 Things Peter has seen that can break trust and why setting matters27:06 - 27:51 How to connect with Peter27:51 - 29:02 Peter's final take29:02 - 29:38 OutroImportant links and mentions:Check out Peter’s website: http://www.peter-hopwood.com/Connect with Peter on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterhopwoodpublicspeakingFollow Peter on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HopwoodMediaFollow Peter on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peterhopwood/Listen to Peter’s first appearance on The Visual Lounge: https://the-visual-lounge.captivate.fm/episode/how-to-break-your-viewers-trust

Feb 11, 202629 min

Ep 276What Research Says About AI Avatars in Learning

Should AI avatars replace human presenters?In part two of this research series on The Visual Lounge, host Matt Pierce is joined again by TechSmith Senior Market Researcher Stephanie Warnoff to discuss the latest findings from TechSmith's research on AI avatars in instructional video.Building on episode 275 about AI voices, this conversation explores how different on-screen presenter styles affect viewer perception and information retention.The study compares multiple formats, including human presenters, AI avatars, and alternative visual approaches. You’ll learn about common misconceptions teams have about avatars, why viewer reactions often differ from stated preferences, and where avatars may help or hurt depending on context.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 – 01:40 Intro01:40 – 03:45 What surprised Stephanie most in her findings on AI avatars03:45 – 05:20 The five video snippets used during the study05:20 – 08:27 How are perspectives around AI changing?08:27 – 11:25 When to use avatars, and when not to use avatars11:25 – 13:35 The impact of avatars on learning13:35 – 15:17 Stephanie’s advice on implementing AI avatars into work15:17 – 17:03 Stephanie's tips to people who are reluctant to use AI avatars17:03 – 18:29 Questions that Stephanie would like to answer in future research18:29 – 19:42 Matt's take on the research19:42 – 21:14 Stephanie's advice for people interested and how to get involved with TechSmith research21:14 – 21:59 Stephanie's final take21:59 OutroImportant links and mentions:Connect with Stephanie: [email protected] more about the study in this blog post: https://www.techsmith.com/blog/ai-voices-avatars-in-training-videos/Check out part one of this research series, episode 275, on AI voices: https://the-visual-lounge.captivate.fm/episode/275-ai-voices-impact-on-learning/

Feb 4, 202622 min

Ep 275AI Voices: Impact on Learning

How much does audio really affect learning? And does it matter whether that voice is human or AI?In this episode, Matt sits down with Stephanie Warnoff, Senior Market Researcher at TechSmith, to walk through new research that looks at how audio quality and AI narration influence learning outcomes, perceived professionalism, and retention in instructional video.The study, conducted by TechSmith, was built around a simple experiment. Participants watched the same 45-second how-to video, with the visuals kept the same each time. The only variable was the audio. Viewers heard one of four versions: high-quality human narration, low-quality human narration, high-quality AI narration, and low-quality AI narration. What the team found was...surprising.Throughout the conversation, Matt and Stephanie explore what the results mean for teams creating training and instructional content, especially as AI tools become easier to access.This episode is part 1 of a two-part research series. Stay tuned for episode 2, where Matt and Stephanie take a closer look at the second half of the study, focusing on AI avatars, and how different avatar styles compare with human presenters in real learning contexts.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 - 01:19 Intro01:19 - 02:53 Stephanie's background02:53 - 04:59 TechSmith’s research on AI voices04:59 - 06:14 The four audio versions used during the study and how the experiment was structured06:14 - 07:47 What surprised Stephanie about the AI voices07:47 - 10:58 Is there a need for disclosure with AI?10:58 - 15:37 Signals for high quality voices15:37 - 18:04 Why poor audio quality performed better than high audio quality18:04 - 20:34 Other considerations for effectiveness of learning through AI20:34 - 23:08 Future research23:08 - 26:22 Closing thoughts26:22 - 27:01 Stephanie's final take27:01 - 28:00 OutroImportant links and mentions:Connect with Stephanie: [email protected] more about the study in this blog post: https://www.techsmith.com/blog/ai-voices-avatars-in-training-videos/

Jan 28, 202628 min

Ep 274What SMEs Actually Need from Instructional Designers

Have you ever struggled to get the information you need from a subject matter expert? Or maybe you're the expert (SME), and you're not quite sure what the instructional designer actually wants from you?In this episode, host Matt Pierce explores what subject matter experts actually need from instructional designers (IDs) to do their best work. Drawing from his experience on both sides of the dynamic, Matt breaks down seven key principles for building a strong SME-ID partnership that leads to better learning outcomes.From being specific with requests and setting clear boundaries, to giving early feedback and closing the loop on how information gets used, Matt offers practical guidance for creating a smoother, more productive working relationship.Matt also explores how video can strengthen communication between SMEs and IDs, whether that's recording verbal feedback, providing quick status updates, or simply adding a personal touch that helps you stand out in a busy SME's inbox.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 - 01:26 Introduction and the SME-ID dynamic01:26 - 03:25 Respecting SME time and being specific with requests03:25 - 05:57 Setting clear guardrails and context before asking for content05:57 - 08:11 Helping SMEs remember what it's like to be a beginner08:11 - 09:57 The importance of early, actionable feedback09:57 - 12:18 Pushing back when expertise doesn't serve the learner12:18 - 14:06 Giving SMEs something to react to rather than starting from nothing14:06 - 18:22 Closing the loop and using video to strengthen communication18:22 - 21:01 Matt’s final take and outroImportant links and mentions:Camtasia: https://www.techsmith.com/camtasia/Snagit: https://www.techsmith.com/snagit/Audiate: https://www.techsmith.com/camtasia/audiate/

Jan 21, 202621 min

Ep 273Why Stories and Visuals Matter More Than Ever in Times of Change

Change is emotional. Even when the strategy is solid, people still feel uncertain, skeptical, or overwhelmed, especially when the vision feels huge and the path feels unclear.In this revisited episode of The Visual Lounge (originally Episode 168), Matt sits down with Jake Gittleson, who leads McKinsey’s Learning Research and Innovation Lab. Jake shares why storytelling is one of the most effective tools L&D teams have for supporting change inside organisations.Instead of trying to persuade people in one big moment, Jake explains why change stories should be shared over time, through small experiments, human insights, and incremental updates that meet people where they are. He also breaks down practical ways to gather stories through interviews, outline your narrative, and use video and audio to create connection, without needing expensive gear or a polished production setup.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 - 01:21 Introduction01:21 - 02:03 Jake’s background02:03 - 04:14 How Jake started using audio and video04:14 - 07:01 What does a successful change look like07:01 - 08:45 Creativity as a tip for using video at work08.45 - 11:55 Jake’s role and expertise in change and innovation11:55 - 15:11 Why human connection matters in change15:11 - 18:13 Operationalizing storytelling without big budgets18:13 - 21:13 Building the right stories21:13 - 27:10 Visual approaches to telling stories27:10 - 30:21 Capturing real voices30:21 - 39:51 Speed round39:51 - 40:46 Jake’s final take40:46 OutroImportant links and mentions:Connect with Jake on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-gittleson/Check out The Learning Geeks podcast: https://www.learninggeekspod.com/Listen to Jake’s first appearance on The Visual Lounge in episode 168: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/ee9c311f-7f51-4a6c-a749-c2d7090a1274

Jan 14, 202641 min

Ep 272End-of-Year Tips and Holiday Cheer from the TechSmith Team

As the new year starts, it’s the perfect time to reflect (and look forward) on how we create and communicate learning content.In this special episode of The Visual Lounge, Matt is joined by some TechSmith team members (or TechSmithies!) who share their favourite tips, shortcuts, and features in Snagit and Camtasia. These are real workflows used every day to support creators, teams, and organizations.From speeding up video editing with simple keyboard shortcuts, to collaborating without meetings, to building consistency across projects, this episode is packed with practical insider tips from our TechSmithies that you can start using right away.It’s also a moment to say thank you to The Visual Lounge community for tuning in, sharing feedback, and being part of the conversation throughout the year.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 - 00:39 Intro 00:39 - 01:31 Matt’s most used features in Camtasia 01:31 - 02:55 A look back on a great year02:55 - 03:20 Happy Holidays from Cameron, Senior Customer Care Specialist at TechSmith03:20 - 05:41 Collaboration workflow in Camtasia Online05:41 - 08:20 How presets in SnagIt make your life easier08:20 - 08:48 Capturing text directly with Snagit08:48 - 10:51 Using placeholders in Camtasia10:51 Looking forward to the year aheadImportant links and mentions:Explore TechSmith: https://www.techsmith.com/ Learn more about Snagit: https://www.techsmith.com/snagit/ Learn more about Camtasia: https://www.techsmith.com/camtasia/ Explore Camtasia AI: https://camtasia.ai/

Dec 31, 202511 min

Ep 271Adapting to Change: Surviving the Rapid AI Transformation in the Workplace

AI is reshaping learning and development faster than any of us expected. So how do we adapt? And what skills will matter most as tools, workflows and expectations keep changing in the workplace?In this episode, Matt speaks with Josh Cavalier, an AI and L&D expert with more than two decades of experience helping organizations modernize the way they design learning. Josh is also the author of Applying AI in Learning and Development, a practical guide for teams looking to build confidence, capability and structure around AI-powered work.Josh shares real-world insights on handling rapid change inside organizations, understanding how AI affects creative and instructional output, and building the skills to keep up. He explores how the role of L&D is shifting, why integrity matters more than ever, and what it looks like to create a personal AI training plan for 2026.You'll also hear how to identify your 'sources of truth' so you can keep up with changes in your industry and in AI without getting overwhelmed, plus why having access to multiple AI models can dramatically improve the quality of your work.Learning points from the episode include:00:55 – 02:17 Introduction to Josh’s book02:17 – 05:37 How do we apply AI to the jobs that we do?05:37 – 08:13 How do we keep up and use AI in the day-to-day?08:13 – 13:41 Why adaptability is paramount with AI13:41 – 17:49 How AI has raised the bar in work17:49 – 19:39 AI as an enabler for creativity19:39 – 25:08 Maintaining your integrity25:08 – 28:48 Avatars vs humans in video28:48 – 30:30 The HUMAN framework30:30 – 34:25 Faster? Or faster and better?34:25 – 37:08 Josh’s final takeImportant links and mentions:Find Josh’s book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Applying-Learning-Development-Platforms-PerformanceVisit Josh’s website: https://www.joshcavalier.com/Connect with Josh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshcavalier/Learn more about The HUMAN framework: https://www.techsmith.com/blog/human-framework-for-ai-training-videos/

Dec 16, 202537 min

Ep 270Pause. Rewind. Learn. More Effective Learning with Patti Shank

Ever clicked play on a learning video that looks polished and professional, only to finish it and think, “Wait, what did I just learn?”  In this episode, we’re revisiting a conversation with Patti Shank, an internationally recognized learning designer, researcher, and author who has spent years studying how people really take in information. Patti knows that effective learning isn’t about the video itself, it’s about how the viewer processes it. She unpacks the hidden reasons instructional videos fall short, why cognitive overload is more common than we think, and how simple design choices can make or break viewer understanding. You’ll hear Patti explain the critical role of learner control, the pitfalls of combining text, visuals, and narration, and why background music (even the relaxed kind) can silently derail understanding. Plus, she shares practical ways to design video, so it supports effective thinking, processing, and learning. Learning points from the episode include:  00:00 - 01:12 Introduction 01:12 - 01:59 The difference between reading and listening 01:59 - 02:57 The importance of learner control 02:57 - 04:28 Why background music usually hurts learning 04:28 - 05:07 Why video is powerful when designed well 05:07 - Outro Important links and mentions: Connect with Patti on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pattishank  Check out Patti’s website: https://www.pattishank.com/  Listen to Patti’s first appearance on The Visual Lounge in episode 155: https://the-visual-lounge.captivate.fm/episode/research-learning-from-videos  

Dec 10, 20255 min

Ep 269How to Choose the Right AI Video Tools Without Breaking the Bank

Imagine logging in next month to find your bill for the AI tool you use has doubled, or that you've run out of credits halfway through a critical project.The explosion of AI video tools has brought incredible capabilities to content creators, but alongside these innovations comes a new challenge: complex pricing models that make it difficult to budget, explain costs to your boss, or know if you're getting sustainable value from your tools.Joining us in this episode is Daniel Foster, Director of Monetization at TechSmith, who studies the evolution of software pricing and has been closely watching how AI tools are being packaged and priced.Daniel shares practical advice for evaluating AI tools beyond just their features, looking at the "whole product" including support, documentation, and pricing sustainability. He explains how to navigate credit-based systems, and why bundled solutions might save you both money and headaches.Learning points from the episode include:00:38 - 01:52 Introduction to Daniel01:52 - 03:06 Daniel's tip for using images and video in work03:06 - 05:05 Why pricing decisions matter as much as features05:05 - 07:51 Current AI pricing models emerging in the market07:51 - 10:56 The complexity of credit-based systems10:56 - 13:47 Alternatives and features to look for in pricing13:47 - 19:54 Evaluating all-in-one vs. specialized tools19:54 - 22:29 Support and documentation considerations22:29 - 23:23 The most popular AI feature: Voice generation23:23 - 27:56 Speed round questions27:56 - 28:53 Daniel's final take28:53 - 30:14 OutroImportant links and mentions:Connect with Daniel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielfoster/Camtasia: https://www.techsmith.com/camtasia/

Dec 3, 202530 min

Ep 268From "Watch Bait" to Workflow: Leveraging AI Video for Success

What happens when everyone can create AI videos with just a text prompt?We’re entering the “watch bait era” where AI-generated short clips may start dominating social media feeds, making it harder to distinguish between AI content, misinformation, and reality.The technology is improving but still has real limitations. While AI avatars and lip-sync are getting better, we’re still dealing with 8-second clip restrictions, consistency issues (your character might lose their glasses between scenes), and the ongoing challenge of writing effective prompts.Joining us is Myra Roldan, Founder and Chief AI Officer at UnDesto AI, who’s been working in the AI space for 12 years. She shares practical insights on what AI video can actually do today, why you need authorization before using these tools with company data, and why storyboarding remains essential.Learning points from the episode include:00:00 - 02:45 Introduction to Myra Roldan02:45 - 03:41 12 years in AI: pushing limits and finding considerations03:41 - 05:18 Current state: better avatars, but still limited05:18 - 06:58 Understanding the "watch bait era"06:58 - 08:52 Corporate AI use: authorization and strategy first08:52 - 10:11 Cheap, fast or good, pick two10:11 - 12:38 Consistency challenges with AI characters12:38 - 16:00 Writing effective short prompts and accepting waste16:00 - 17:05 Generation costs and platform caps17:05 - 18:08 The "drunk intern" analogy18:08 - 20:14 Moving from experimentation to everyday use20:14 - 23:45 Why video editing skills still matter23:45 - 29:12 Speed round questions29:12 - 29:19 Myra's final take29:19 - 31:04 OutroImportant links and mentions:Connect with Myra on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/myraroldan/Find out more about UnDesto AI: https://intelligence.undesto.ai/Watch Hey It’s Myra on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@learnwithmyraCamtasia: https://www.techsmith.com/camtasia/  

Nov 19, 202531 min
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