Business Podcast Consultant - Live Streaming Video Production

How One Customer Tripled the Income Potential of Their Pay-Per-View Live Streaming Video Production

Posted by Scott Whitney on March 2, 2010 · Leave a Comment 

I’ve written a bit about the show we produce for Stronger Families, a non-profit organization that advocates for healthy marriages and strong families.  The show (Stronger Families LIVE with Jeff Kemp) does an outstanding job of picking the brains of marriage experts with a variety of special skills.

We worked hard to deliver a Pay-Per-View program that added a great deal of value to our viewers, but we wanted to further extend what we could offer people in need of this kind of content AND further increase revenue.

I just got a peek at the results of one of my favorite tips for increasing the revenue brought about by any Live Streaming Video production; that is, by creating an “available-for-sale” DVD.

SFLive-Product-MockUpBy working with our DVD/CD manufacturing partner (Acutrack), Stronger Families took their Pay-Per-View episodes and packaged them into this retail-quality DVD seen on the right.

For the first four episodes we produced, they plan to create two DVDs—each with two episodes.

Doesn’t this look great?!?!  They did a wonderful job putting everything together and have successfully created THREE revenue streams from the Stronger Families LIVE pay-per-view production:

  1. Live Pay-Per-View
  2. Post show Video-On-Demand
  3. DVD

Who is Buying?

What’s interesting about the DVD is an analysis of who is buying.  As expected, people who attended the live event and wanted to preserve what they learned for further reference have purchased a DVD.  But two other groups have been added to that first group of buyers:

  1. Live Pay-Per-View customers who attended
  2. Live Pay-Per-View customers who were unable to attend the live show
  3. People who missed the live event but still wanted the content

What’s great about this is that the investment in the live event will be paying dividends to Stronger Families for years.  

Total Income Streams

If you add up all the income streams from this production, you’ll get a total of FIVE:

  1. Live Pay-Per-View
  2. Post-show Video-On-Demand (Non-PPV Signups)
    [PPV Signups were allowed free access to the Video-On-Demand)
  3. DVD
    • PPV Attendees
    • PPV Signup, Unable to Attend
    • Non-PPV Signups

By adding a video-on-demand and DVD option, Stronger Families has tripled their income options for Stronger Families LIVE.  Pretty nifty.

You Can Do the Same!

The key to increasing your revenue OR marketing value is to ensure you are recording your live streaming video production in such a manner as to allow for the reuse as either a high-quality video-on-demand offering or a DVD.  This means that recording your live event as a FLASH video is not good enough.  Be sure to record in a non-Flash format that is capable of being eventually rendered in a quality suitable for DVD.

As you can tell, I’m excited about all this.  How about you?  Are you considering producing a live streaming video production and adding a DVD component to the overall offering?  Have you already done so?  Let me know. . .I’d love to shine a flashlight on others with similar success (or concerns).

Filed under Live Streaming Video, Online Marketing, Online Video, Podcast Marketing · Tagged with , , , , ,

Getting Your Video Indexed by Google: Is YouTube The Only Answer?

Posted by Scott Whitney on February 23, 2010 · Leave a Comment 

Part of my online toolkit includes LivePerson, software that allows me to chat with people who visit our website.  LivePerson also provides a real-time view of who is on your website, and how they got there.

Many times during the day, I’ll catch somebody visiting the Living in Las Vegas Podcast website via a Google search for “Las Vegas Podcast”.  From time to time, I’ll check out that person’s Google search to see how we’re ranking. . .and what other sites are being listed.

GoogleVideo01 As I was checking out our ranking on Google this morning, I saw something fascinating. . .and VERY promising.  Along with searching the web for “las vegas podcast”, Google also initiated on its own a video search for “las vegas podcast” as well.  As the screen shot shows, Google found our latest video podcast episode, which is self-hosted.

This is huge.

I’ve experienced Google’s YouTube fixation.  I have other search engine phrases that I’ve previously been ranked #1, only to slip down a spot or two because a YouTube video uses the same keywords.  What I didn’t expect is that Google would be able to (or want to, for that matter) index a self-hosted .MP4 video.

 

GoogleVideo02When I clicked on the “Video results for las vegas podcast” link, I was further impressed.

For a select few videos, Google allows you to Watch Video Here. . .clicking it brings up the video on the right side of the search results, ready for play [see the graphic below].  Google also searches for other related videos and displays them as thumbnail graphics below the video being played.  In our case, if found related videos on YouTube, LivingInLV.com, Ustream.TV and MeFeedia.com. [As seen below.]

Again, very impressive.

My guess is that the reason we’re seeing this happen is because our self-hosted videos are MP4 videos.  We’re also using the jwplayer Flash player, which seems to be helpful as well.  Regardless, this is GREAT NEWS!  The fact Google is indexing this content demonstrates that when done correctly, embedded video does provide more content for Google to index.

What does that mean to you?  Well, it doesn’t mean you should ignore YouTube.  Google has much love for YouTube.  But it DOES mean you should recognize that embedded video increases your probability of being discovered via Google.

 

GoogleVideo03

Filed under Online Video, Podcast Tips, Podcasting Expert, Video Podcasts · Tagged with , , , ,

In Las Vegas? I’m Speaking Next Week on Marketing Techniques That Drive Website Traffic and Increase Revenue

Posted by Scott Whitney on February 10, 2010 · 2 Comments 

  The folks at the Technology Business Alliance of Nevada have asked me to deliver my “Cutting Edge Marketing in the Technology Age” presentation.  It’ll take place next Wednesday, February 17th, at the Bali Hai Golf Club’s Cili Restaurant.  It’s open to all folks and costs $35 pre-paid, $45 at the door. 

Here’s the description of the presentation:

For many, the concept of developing an effective online marketing strategy is intimidating. As a result, we find companies unintentionally distancing themselves from their customers and prospects instead of bringing the two groups closer together. Fortunately, there are a number of online marketing techniques that will introduce the real value of your company to your prospects and customers, motivating these important people towards a new (or additional) working relationship with your organization.

This presentation offers those techniques.

Come to this session ready to look at your existing marketing efforts in a new, fresh way. We will share proven marketing techniques that take advantage of:

· Your Website

· Search Engines

· Email Marketing

· Social Networks

· Blogs

· Podcasts

You will learn new methods to reach out and grab additional business. Be prepared to take notes!

This is a very well received presentation as it delivers tips that can be immediately implemented.

If you’re a Las Vegas local, and you’re responsible for the effectiveness of your website, come take a listen.

Filed under Online Marketing, Speaking · Tagged with , , , ,

Twitter Weekly Updates for 2010-02-07

Posted by Scott Whitney on February 7, 2010 · Leave a Comment 

Filed under Twitter · Tagged with ,

Twitter Weekly Updates for 2010-01-31

Posted by Scott Whitney on January 31, 2010 · Leave a Comment 

  • RT @katharnavas: 48 best free apps from Microsoft http://bit.ly/6GjjeK #
  • 1: #LiveVideoTip Reading from a script? Use a teleprompter. Looking away to read content is distracting & hurts effectiveness of video. #
  • It’s nuts that my Google Alert keeps finding websites that are selling MP3 songs from my CDs illegally. #
  • #LiveVideoTip Use a “Lobby Screen” to test that your stream is working without exposing the “talent”. Background music will test audio. #
  • Stumped @tricaster support w/ two problems. Expecting to hear from supervisor tomorrow, hopefully w/ better news! #
  • @GrouponVegas check out http://www.LivingInLV.com in reply to GrouponVegas #
  • @tricaster users, r u seeing this same LiveSet prob? http://ow.ly/i/nKL That orange line is in front of “talent”, should be behind. #
  • @tricaster user: That LiveSet is PrimeTime, Shot: Right, UL #
  • @tricaster Also seeing a problem here: http://ow.ly/i/nKO PrimeTime, Shot: Right, UR #
  • #LiveVideoTip Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse your opening. Your first impression sets the table for the professionalism of your show. #
  • #LiveVideoTip Keep your “Lower Thirds” to the lower third part of the screen. Don’t block your guest/host with too tall graphics. #
  • @PhilipNelson Thanks for the response, Philip. Check the forum for more details: http://ow.ly/10Mte in reply to PhilipNelson #
  • Upgrading to @adobe Dreamweaver CS4 was not fun. Was told problem is I can’t upgrade from a previous upgrade?!?! Nuts! #
  • @Hunter many larger CDN’s can handle a live stream equal to the audience of an Apple anouncement. Presidential swearing in, for example. in reply to Hunter #
  • On hold w/ @adobe — 10 minutes, still no human interaction. Blech. #
  • Guess my diverse spending habits spooked the folks at CapitalOne. Their fraud protection folks just called to check in. Nice job! #
  • I think if the iPad included Flash support and a camera, Apple would increase iPad sales by 30-50%. #
  • I’ve watched a couple different news anchors mistakenly refer to the iPad as an iPod. #
  • @MarkGA Please. I know you. If she demands the purchase, you’ll purchase. (Though you’d probably say they’re only available in LV!) in reply to MarkGA #
  • Just confirmed a new Web TV production with a biz ranked #1 by Gartner and Forrester. VERY excited about working with this great company! #
  • RT @OMGFacts: The MGM Grand Hotel of Las Vegas washes 15,000 pillowcases per day. #omgfacts #
  • Would like to check out some live jazz tonight? Suggestion? #
  • @MarkGA Fear not, Mark. After awhile, those voices that sound like mine are quite soothing. in reply to MarkGA #
  • @MarkGA follow the voice, Mark. It knows that which you desire. in reply to MarkGA #

Filed under Twitter · Tagged with ,

Live Streaming Video Productions: Your First Impression Matters

Posted by Scott Whitney on January 27, 2010 · Leave a Comment 

Help Button While it is true that practice makes perfect, practice is also boring.  Problem is, without practice, when the time comes to perform, more times than not, nerves get in the way from what could be a great performance.

This is true for the arts (music, acting).  And this is true for your Live Streaming Video Production (LSVP).

As part of my weekly efforts, I take the time to check out other LSVPs.  In doing so, an interesting trend has emerged.  Of the last three shows I’ve watch, ALL OF THEM had a problem with the start of the show — video didn’t appear correctly, the sound wasn’t on, graphics didn’t work as expected, graphics didn’t match on-air content, etc.  And in all three cases, the host feverishly tried to fix the problem while apologizing to the audience.

There is no question that your first impression sets the table for the professionalism of your show.  My guess is that had each of these hosts rehearsed their opening 20 times, mapping out exactly what buttons needed to be pushed and what comes next, these problems would not have happened.

Buuuuuut, practicing is a bore. 

Trust me when I say, the panic associated with a failed opening of your LSVP will make you wish you lived through a bunch of boring rehearsals.  I get a little nervous before each live show we do, and we practice, practice, practice.  I can’t imagine how crappy/scared I’d feel if I tried to start a live show “cold”.

So, get bored.  Practice your butt off.  Get your muscle-memory honed for that opening.  And allow yourself to focus on what matters the most: entertaining or educating your viewers.

Filed under Live Streaming Video, Online Video, Podcast Tips, Podcasting Expert · Tagged with

Twitter Weekly Updates for 2010-01-24

Posted by Scott Whitney on January 24, 2010 · Leave a Comment 

  • Thanks to all our Bay Area friends with whom we had such a good time. You guys (and gals) are great! #
  • #PodcastTips Provide a direct RSS and iTunes link on your website. Make it easy for folks to subscribe to your show. #
  • #PodcastTips Don’t forget to include ID3 information in your MP3 file. Artist (show title), Title (episode), Album (email), Comments, URL #
  • @unmarketing what’s your xbox ID? I’m scaught0221. Am just beginning to get the hang of Modern Warfare 2. in reply to unmarketing #
  • #PodcastTips The criteria of success of a podcast (listener’s perspective): Entertain or Educate (or both) http://ow.ly/XR42 #
  • #PodcastTips The criteria of success of a podcast (company’s perspective): Make Money, Motivate people http://ow.ly/XR57 #
  • @Weezul Love that song! in reply to Weezul #
  • RT @VegasNews: Bonkerz Comedy Club Begins New Comedy Class Session Jan. 23 http://bit.ly/63Lv34 #
  • RT @RickySantos: ViVu Launches Video Collaboration Plug-In For Skype http://tinyurl.com/yao7mhd #
  • LivinginLV.com: Local’s Only Deal: Free Tickets to the LA Comedy Club http://bit.ly/7sQlr0 #
  • #PodcastTips Reason No.5 for a Corporate Podcast: Customer Loyalty http://ow.ly/XR6c #
  • #PodcastTips Reason No.8 for a Corporate Podcast: Employee Communications http://ow.ly/XR6P #
  • At a luncheon today, I learned that CityCenter received 175,000 job applications for the 12,500 positions available. #
  • @LAKarenLoftus Of the 175,000 applicants, CityCenter hired about 10k after transfers from other MGM Mirage properties. #vegas in reply to LAKarenLoftus #
  • #PodcastTips Reason No.7 for a Corporate Podcast: Momentum
    http://ow.ly/XR9D #
  • RT @LasVegas: Analyst predicts local home prices to remain near bottom in 2010 http://is.gd/6KZ2e #
  • RT @RoxanneDiana: What a bargain! RT @RioVegas Don’t forget, Suites at Rio are just $20 per night, per person through February 4, 2010. #
  • #PodcastTips Reason No.6 for a Corporate Podcast: It’s a Web 2.0 Thing http://ow.ly/XRaw #
  • @PromisePhelon If you follow me I can DM you in return. #
  • RT @Techpaulogy: Getting a live streaming video business brief from @PodWorx — thanks @benkiker for the intro | And thank both of you -SW #
  • @Str8upLV Agreed! Hopefully, those not selected by CityCenter will find work elsewhere. in reply to Str8upLV #
  • Four days of rain have killed our phones. Not a feature. Hopefully CenturyLink will fix tomorrow (between 9am-3pm). #
  • RT @LasVegas: Nevada’s unemployment rate rises to 13 percent http://is.gd/6O7qU #
  • RT @EverythingVegas: Gaming supplier IGT reports profit increase in quarter http://ez.ly/Bea #
  • Just spoke with the most condescending customer rep *ever* at CenturyLINK. Unbelievable attitude considering I have NO PHONE SERVICE. #
  • Whoa…just learned that the CenturyLINK status rep who told me a tech was working on my line “as we speak” was lying. Where’s my MagicJack? #
  • #PodcastTips Reason No.4 for a Corporate Podcast: Improved Sales http://ow.ly/XRbC #
  • Want to know if you’re *really* in shape? Get stronger with @brandonnugent #FF (He scares me.) #
  • #PodcastTips Reason No.3 for a Corporate Podcast: Ubiqitous Access to Customers & Prospects http://ow.ly/XRd4 #
  • @brandonnugent My pleasure, Brandon! in reply to brandonnugent #
  • LivinginLV.com: The Living in Las Vegas Podcast Has a Facebook Fan Page http://bit.ly/4xGwwY #
  • Is it possible to have a Facebook Fan Page email you when somebody write/comments on it? #
  • Today’s activities will include shopping (boo), tapas (yea), and live comedy (YES!). #
  • @Weezul Sadly, a “real” mall. Meadows. A different mix of clientele, to be sure. Much prefer malls on the Strip–people watching+adult bev. in reply to Weezul #
  • RT @pslove: Unless someone talks ne out of this in the next 2 hours, I’m going to go to Lied Shelter and get a dog. | congrats!! -SW #

Filed under Twitter · Tagged with ,

Twitter Weekly Updates for 2010-01-17

Posted by Scott Whitney on January 17, 2010 · Leave a Comment 

  • LivinginLV.com: LiLV Contest: Name Our Deer http://www.livinginlv.com/index.php/2010/01/11/lilv-contest-name-our-deer/ #
  • #PodcastTips Take listener questions. And give them credit. People love to hear their name. #
  • #PodcastTips Create a caller listener line. Makes for great content on your show. #
  • RT @katharnavas: 50 First-class & New Downloadable Fonts For Professional Designs http://bit.ly/6owziR #
  • RT @Brian_Fey: Goldman Sachs just upgrades $MGM to a “Buy”. | That seems encouraging. — SW #
  • #PodcastTips Have an email subscription list. Even with RSS feeds, email alerts will drive traffic to your website. #
  • #PodcastTips The “reliability” of your show (new episodes available when promised) is a top 5 attribute to podcast listeners. #
  • #PodcastTips Top five important podcast attributes: Content, Overall Quality, Host(s), Audio Quality, Reliability #
  • RT @Andrew303: How Google Ranks Tweets http://bit.ly/7WIr7D (the video is pretty good) | Are hashtags bad?!? - SW #
  • I am very impressed w/ Conan O’Brien’s response to the NBC shifting sands: http://ow.ly/VUSS #
  • #PodcastTips Be sure to submit your podcast to the iTunes podcast directory. http://www.apple.com/itunes/podcasts/specs.html #
  • @tricaster - Streaming live right now w/ our Tricaster at http://ow.ly/W6Su #
  • LivinginLV.com: 75: [Video] Living in Las Vegas Podcast Four Year Anniversary http://bit.ly/8Eqz8I #
  • #PodcastTips When talking about a product, speak of the problem you solve. Nobody cares what you do, only what you do for them. #
  • Looking for a Vegas-based video lighting expert for a tricky studio lighting requirement. Is it you? Know somebody? Please RT. #
  • #PodcastTips Remind your guest that s/he doesn’t have to begin every reply with your name. After a while, it sounds goofy/pitchy/salesy. #
  • #PodcastTips Be sure you alert your Twitter and Facebook followers about your latest podcast! #
  • #PodcastTips Be sure to alert your email list about your latest podcast episode. #
  • #PodcastTips Be sure to work hard at making your interviews interesting: Some tips: http://ow.ly/SZui #
  • Just arrived at SJC. Wow. What a difference. M and I were turned around when we found ourselved in the new terminal. #
  • #PodcastTips Can a podcast really improve sales? It can if you remember telling is not selling, teaching is (learn more): http://ow.ly/SZvL #

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Scott’s Twitter Updates for 2010-01-14

Posted by Scott Whitney on January 14, 2010 · Leave a Comment 

  • Looking for a Vegas-based video lighting expert for a tricky studio lighting requirement. Is it you? Know somebody? Please RT. #
  • #PodcastTips Remind your guest that s/he doesn’t have to begin every reply with your name. After a while, it sounds goofy/pitchy/salesy. #
  • #PodcastTips Be sure you alert your Twitter and Facebook followers about your latest podcast! #
  • #PodcastTips Be sure to alert your email list about your latest podcast episode. #

Filed under Twitter · Tagged with ,

Working on a New Web TV Program

Posted by Scott Whitney on January 8, 2010 · 3 Comments 

top-secret-folder I’ve been thinking about the concept for a new Web TV program for quite some time.  Having finally developed an Episode Map with 100+ episodes, along with a detailed mindmap that outlines music, branding, show flow, camera shots, script ideas, and marketing plans, we’ve begun developing the stand-alone website for this new production. 

I can’t say much more about it now.  BUT, I can say it’ll provide those who follow this blog a nice example of what a professional-level, easy-to-consume Web TV program looks like.

Stay tuned! 

Filed under Online Video, Podcast Marketing, Video Podcasts · Tagged with

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Business Podcast Consultant - Live Streaming Video Production