Strategies for Promoting Your Live-stream

Live streaming is a powerful tool for connecting with your audience in real-time and delivering engaging content. However, it is not enough to simply create a live stream and hope that viewers will find it. It is essential to promote your live stream to ensure that it reaches the right audience and generates the desired impact. Here are some strategies for promoting your live stream effectively.

  1. Build anticipation: One effective way to promote your live stream is to build anticipation leading up to the event. Use your social media channels, website, and email list to create buzz and excitement about the upcoming live stream. Share teasers, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and previews of what viewers can expect. Consider offering exclusive content or giveaways to incentivize viewers to tune in.
  2. Leverage social media: Social media is a powerful tool for promoting your live stream. Share information about the upcoming event on your social media channels and encourage your followers to share and tag their friends. Consider creating a dedicated hashtag for the event to make it easy for viewers to find and engage with your content. Use paid social media ads to target your desired audience and expand your reach.
  3. Collaborate with influencers: Consider partnering with influencers or other brands in your industry to help promote your live stream. Identify influencers with a large and engaged following who align with your brand values and message. Offer them exclusive access or content related to the live stream in exchange for sharing information about the event with their followers.
  4. Utilize email marketing: Email remains one of the most effective ways to reach your audience and promote your live stream. Send targeted email campaigns to your email list with information about the upcoming event, including date, time, and how to access the live stream. Consider offering exclusive content or promotions to incentivize viewers to tune in.
  5. Optimize your website: Your website is an essential tool for promoting your live stream. Create a dedicated landing page for the event with all the relevant information, including date, time, and how to access the live stream. Make it easy for viewers to sign up for reminders or updates about the event. Consider using pop-ups or banners on your website to promote the live stream leading up to the event.
  6. Offer value: One of the most effective ways to promote your live stream is to offer value to your viewers. Consider creating exclusive content or offering behind-the-scenes access to the event. Offer Q&A sessions or interactive elements to engage viewers and keep them coming back for more. Consider partnering with sponsors or other brands to offer exclusive promotions or discounts to viewers.

Promoting your live stream requires a strategic approach and a multi-faceted approach. Build anticipation, leverage social media, collaborate with influencers, utilize email marketing, optimize your website, and offer value to your viewers. By following these strategies, you can increase the visibility and impact of your live stream and connect with your audience in meaningful ways.

Best Equipment for Live-streaming

Live streaming is an excellent way to connect with your audience in real-time, but to deliver a high-quality stream, you need the right equipment. In this article, we’ll explore the best equipment for live streaming and how to choose the right gear for your needs.

1. Camera: The camera is the most important piece of equipment for live streaming. A high-quality camera can help ensure that your stream looks professional and polished. Consider a camera with at least 1080p resolution and a wide-angle lens for capturing a larger field of view. Popular options include the Canon XF405 and the Sony PXW-Z90V.  Also consider:  Panasonic AG-CX350, Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K, Nikon Z6 II, Sony a7 III, or the Canon EOS C200.

2. Microphone: A good microphone is essential for delivering high-quality audio during a live stream. A directional microphone is ideal for live streaming as it can help reduce background noise and capture clear audio. Consider a condenser microphone like the Blue Yeti or the Rode NT-USB for high-quality sound.  Also consider:  Shure SM7B, Audio-Technica AT4053b, Rode VideoMic Pro+,  Sennheiser MKE 600, and the  Neumann TLM 103.

3. Lighting: Proper lighting is essential for creating a professional-looking live stream. Consider using softbox lights or ring lights to create a well-lit environment. If you’re on a budget, natural lighting can work well too.  Also consider:  Godox SL-60W, Aputure AL-MX, Litra Pro, Westcott Flex Cine RGBW Mat, and the Nanlite Forza 60B.

4. Computer: Your computer is the backbone of your live stream setup. A powerful computer with a fast processor and plenty of RAM is essential for streaming high-quality video. Consider a computer with an Intel Core i7 processor and at least 16GB of RAM.  Also consider:  Apple MacBook Pro (M1), ASUS ROG Strix G15, Dell XPS 13, HP Spectre x360, and the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon.

5. Streaming software: To stream your content, you’ll need streaming software. Popular options include OBS Studio and Streamlabs OBS. These software programs allow you to customize your stream and add overlays, graphics, and other elements to enhance your content.  Also consider:  XSplit, Lightstream, vMix, Wirecast, and BeLive.

6. Capture card: If you plan to stream console games, you’ll need a capture card to capture the video output from your console. Popular options include the Elgato Game Capture HD60 S and the AVerMedia Live Gamer Portable 2 Plus.  Also consider:  Blackmagic Design Intensity Pro 4K, Hauppauge HD PVR Rocket, AVerMedia Live Gamer 4K, Elgato Game Capture 4K60 Pro MK.2, or the Magewell Pro Capture Dual HDMI.

7. Internet connection: A fast and stable internet connection is crucial for live streaming. Consider investing in a high-speed internet plan with upload speeds of at least 5 Mbps.  Who to consider:  AT&T Fiber, Google Fiber, Verizon Fios, Xfinity Gigabit Pro, and CenturyLink Fiber.

8. Tripod or mount: To keep your camera steady, you’ll need a tripod or a mount. Consider a tripod with a fluid head for smooth movement and easy adjustments.  Consider:  Manfrotto 504X Fluid Video Head & Aluminum Tripod System, Gitzo GT5563GS Systematic Series 5 Systematic Tripod, Sachtler ACE XL Tripod System with CF Legs & Mid-Level Spreader, Benro BV10H Pro Video Tripod Kit, Induro Alloy 8M AT214 Tripod with PHQ1 5-Way Panhead, Davis & Sanford PROVISTA100 Provista Tripod with FM18 Head, and Vinten V8AS-CP2F Vision Pozi-Loc Tripod System.

The right equipment is essential for delivering a high-quality live stream. From the camera to the internet connection, each piece of equipment plays a crucial role in creating a professional-looking and engaging live stream. Consider your needs and budget when choosing gear, and don’t be afraid to invest in high-quality equipment to deliver the best possible experience to your audience.

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Best Practices for Engaging Your Audience During a Live-stream

Live streaming is a powerful tool that can help you connect with your audience in real-time. Whether you are live streaming a product launch, a Q&A session, or an event, there are certain best practices you can follow to engage your audience and keep them interested throughout the stream.

  1. Plan your content: Before you go live, it’s essential to plan your content carefully. Consider what you want to achieve with your live stream and how you can provide value to your audience. Create an outline or a script to help you stay on track during the live stream.
  2. Promote your stream: Promoting your live stream in advance can help you reach a wider audience and build anticipation for the event. Share details about the stream on your social media channels, website, and email newsletters.
  3. Interact with your audience: One of the biggest advantages of live streaming is the ability to interact with your audience in real-time. Encourage viewers to ask questions and leave comments during the stream, and be sure to respond to as many as possible.
  4. Use visuals: Visuals can help keep your audience engaged during the live stream. Use slides, images, and videos to illustrate your points and break up the content.
  5. Keep it concise: Attention spans are short, so it’s important to keep your live stream concise and to the point. Stick to your outline or script, and avoid rambling or going off-topic.
  6. Test your equipment: Technical issues can derail a live stream, so it’s essential to test your equipment before you go live. Make sure your camera, microphone, and internet connection are all working properly.
  7. Be authentic: Authenticity is key to engaging your audience during a live stream. Be yourself, and don’t be afraid to show your personality. This can help build trust and connection with your audience.
  8. Follow up: After the live stream, follow up with your audience to thank them for tuning in and to address any questions or comments you may have missed during the stream. This can help build a community around your live streaming content.

Live streaming can be a powerful tool for engaging your audience, but it takes careful planning and execution. By following these best practices, you can create valuable, engaging content that builds connection and trust with your audience.

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Show up and Show out

I love when reading even one line, I’m inspired. The following is the result. Hopefully, some inspiration for you too. Please ~ Share it, Like it, Comment – it’s free!

“Show up and show out” is a powerful phrase that can inspire us to take action, to face challenges head-on, and to exceed expectations. It’s a call to courage, an invitation to step out of our comfort zone, and an acknowledgement that we have the potential to do great things.

But what does it really mean to show up and show out? Let’s break it down.

First, showing up means being present, both physically and mentally. It means showing up to work, to school, to meetings, to appointments, and to life in general. It means being reliable, dependable, and trustworthy. It means being there for others when they need us, and being willing to lend a helping hand.

Showing up also means facing whatever comes our way, even if it’s difficult or uncomfortable. It means being willing to confront our fears, to challenge our assumptions, and to learn from our mistakes. It means being resilient in the face of adversity, and refusing to give up when things get tough.

Second, showing out means surpassing expectations, excelling, and shining in ways others didn’t think were possible. It means bringing our A-game, and putting forth our best effort. It means going above and beyond what’s expected of us, and pushing ourselves to achieve more than we ever thought possible.

Showing out is about having the courage to be ourselves, to express our unique talents and abilities, and to make a positive impact on the world around us. It’s about taking risks, trying new things, and daring to dream big.

So why is it important to show up and show out? For one, it can help us grow and develop as individuals. When we show up, we gain experience, knowledge, and skills that can help us in the future. When we show out, we build confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of accomplishment that can inspire us to do even more.

Showing up and showing out can also have a positive impact on those around us. When we show up, we demonstrate our commitment, dedication, and loyalty. When we show out, we inspire others to do the same, and we create a culture of excellence, where everyone is encouraged to strive for their best.

“Show up and Show out” is more than just a catchy phrase. It’s a call to action, a reminder of our potential, and an invitation to be our best selves. So let’s embrace it, let’s live it, and let’s show the world what we’re capable of.

Digging Out of A Career Black Hole

No matter profession you’re in.  One day you might find yourself here…..But where is here?

A career is an essential aspect of one’s life. It is not only a source of livelihood but also a means of personal growth and fulfillment. However, many people find themselves in a career “black hole” at some point in their lives. This is a situation where they feel stuck in a job that does not offer any prospects for growth, development, and advancement. If you are in a career black hole, you may feel unfulfilled, demotivated, and frustrated. However, there are solutions to get out of it.

Here are some signs that you may be in a career black hole:

1. You are not growing professionally

If you are not learning or growing in your job, it could be a sign that you are in a career black hole. A good job should offer you the opportunity to learn new skills and develop professionally. If you are not getting any training, promotions, or opportunities to take on new challenges, it could be a sign that you are in a dead-end job.

2. You are not challenged

If your job is too easy or repetitive, you may not be challenged enough. A good job should offer you the opportunity to use your skills and abilities to the fullest. If you are not being challenged, you may feel bored and unfulfilled.

3. You are not happy

If you dread going to work every day, it could be a sign that you are not happy in your job. A good job should offer you some degree of job satisfaction. If you are not happy, it could affect your mental and emotional well-being.

If you identify with any of these signs, you may be in a career black hole. Here are some solutions to get out of it:

1. Evaluate your skills and interests

Start by evaluating your skills and interests. Identify the skills that you have and the ones that you would like to develop. Think about the type of work that interests you and the industries that you would like to work in. This will help you to identify the type of job that would be a good fit for you.

2. Update your resume and cover letter

Update your resume and cover letter to highlight your skills and experience. Make sure that they are tailored to the type of job that you are interested in. This will increase your chances of getting a job interview.

3. Network

Networking is a great way to find job opportunities. Attend industry events, job fairs, and conferences. Connect with people on LinkedIn and other professional networks. Let people know that you are looking for a job. You never know when an opportunity may arise.

4. Consider further education

Further education can help you to develop new skills and improve your job prospects. Consider enrolling in a course or a program that is relevant to your career goals. This will not only improve your skills but also demonstrate your commitment to your career.

5. Take on new challenges

If you are not being challenged in your current job, seek opportunities to take on new challenges. Volunteer for new projects or take on additional responsibilities. This will not only help you to develop new skills but also demonstrate your initiative and commitment to your job.

Being in a career black hole can be demotivating and frustrating. However, there are solutions to get out of it. Start by evaluating your skills and interests, update your resume and cover letter, network, consider further education, and take on new challenges. With these strategies, you can break free from a career black hole and find a job that offers you growth, development, and fulfillment.

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Job Seeking in Broadcasting (this really applies to many industries)

Are you tired of seeing job postings that seem impossible to qualify for? You’re not alone. As someone who receives countless requests for help to break into the broadcasting industry, I’ve seen my fair share of job descriptions that require years of experience or advanced degrees for entry-level positions.

It’s frustrating and it doesn’t make sense. Entry-level should mean just that – a starting point for someone who is just beginning their career. These positions should be filled with individuals who are eager to learn and grow within the company. Instead, companies are expecting candidates to have years and years of experience for positions that are supposed to provide a pathway to success.

This is particularly problematic in the broadcasting industry, where there is a severe lack of crew around the world. The industry simply cannot afford to turn away talented individuals who are just starting out because they don’t have the years of experience that some job postings require. We need to be nurturing new talent, not pushing them away.

Of course, experience is important, and it’s understandable that companies want to hire individuals who have some level of expertise. But there has to be a balance. Entry-level positions should not require multiple years of experience or a master’s degree. That’s not reasonable or realistic.

Instead, we need to start thinking about entry-level positions as an opportunity to train and mentor new talent. Companies should be providing on-the-job training and investing in their employees’ professional development. This not only benefits the company, but it also benefits the industry as a whole by creating a pipeline of talented individuals who can take on more advanced roles in the future.

So, if you’re someone who is just starting out in their career and feeling discouraged by the unrealistic job postings out there, know that you’re not alone. It’s time for companies to rethink their approach to entry-level positions and start investing in the next generation of talent. And if you’re a company looking for new talent, consider taking a chance on someone who may not have years of experience, but who is eager to learn and grow with your organization. You might just be surprised at the results.

Now that we’ve identified the problem of unrealistic job postings and the need to invest in new talent, let’s take a look at some potential solutions.

1. Redefine entry-level positions: Companies need to redefine entry-level positions to better reflect what they actually are – starting points for people who are just beginning their careers. This means dropping unrealistic experience and education requirements and focusing on a candidate’s potential and willingness to learn.

2. Offer training and mentorship: Companies need to invest in their employees by offering on-the-job training and mentorship programs. This will not only help new hires develop their skills, but it will also create a supportive work environment that encourages growth and development.

3. Partner with educational institutions: Companies can partner with educational institutions to create pipelines of new talent. This can include internships, co-op programs, or apprenticeships that provide students with hands-on experience and a pathway to a career in the broadcasting industry.

4. Focus on diversity and inclusion: Companies need to focus on diversity and inclusion by actively seeking out and hiring candidates from underrepresented backgrounds. This will not only bring new perspectives and ideas to the table, but it will also help address the systemic issues that have led to a lack of diversity in the broadcasting industry.

5. Create entry-level job boards: Finally, companies can create entry-level job boards that are specifically designed for individuals who are just starting out in their careers. These job boards can help job seekers find opportunities that are more realistic and attainable, while also helping companies find new talent.

By implementing these solutions, companies can start to address the issue of unrealistic job postings and invest in the next generation of talent. This will not only benefit companies by creating a pipeline of skilled workers, but it will also benefit the broadcasting industry as a whole by creating a more diverse and inclusive workforce.

But wait there’s more! What can the job seeker do?

While companies have a responsibility to provide entry-level opportunities and invest in new talent, job seekers also have a role to play in their own career development. Here are some things that job seekers can do to enhance their skills and gain experience:

1. Attend local events: Job seekers can attend local events, such as industry conferences, workshops, and networking events, to meet professionals in the broadcasting industry and learn about new trends and technologies. This can also be an opportunity to ask questions and get advice from people who are already working in the industry.

2. Pursue internships or apprenticeships: Job seekers can pursue internships or apprenticeships to gain hands-on experience in the broadcasting industry. These programs provide opportunities to work alongside professionals and learn from their experiences.

3. Build a portfolio: Job seekers can build a portfolio of their work to showcase their skills and experience to potential employers. This can include samples of their writing, photography or videography work, or other projects that demonstrate their abilities.

4. Invest in their own education: Job seekers can invest in their own education by taking courses or pursuing certifications in areas related to broadcasting, such as journalism, media studies, or video production. This shows a commitment to their field and demonstrates a willingness to learn and develop new skills.

5. Seek out mentors: Job seekers can seek out mentors in the broadcasting industry who can provide guidance and advice on their career development. This can be a valuable resource for job seekers who are just starting out and looking for direction.

Ultimately, job seekers need to take an active role in their own career development. By seeking out opportunities for on-the-job training, attending local events, building a portfolio, investing in their education, and seeking out mentors, job seekers can enhance their skills and gain experience that can help them land their first job in the broadcasting industry.

New Experiences

What are your challenges?  Do you challenge yourself daily?

With over 33 years of broadcast experience, I have seen the industry evolve and change in significant ways. When I heard about the opportunity to join a large media client’s Digital Video Engineering team, I knew this was a chance to once again put my skills to the test.

As I started the contract just over a month ago, I was eager to learn and contribute to the team. The small team I joined communicates regularly to ensure we were all on the same page and working towards the same goals. I quickly learned that I had a lot to learn, but my previous experience would be an asset to the team.

I am responsible for maintaining core technologies, workflows, and systems vital to live-video and file-based digital workflows. I support the engineering solutions for video editing, transcoding, video streaming, and publishing across multiple properties. I have experience with video routers and Vantage Telestream from my previous roles, which has helped me handle these tasks.  Learning all the new systems and their acronyms has been equally challenging at times, but going with the flow and adapting are essential.

Working within an AWS cloud environment, I am tasked with setting up virtual machines and ensuring that the digital workflow deliveries are met. My experience with S3 and FSX has been crucial in managing Windows file systems that run in the cloud.

Although I have not worked extensively with Python or JSON, I am eager to learn and expand my knowledge in these areas. I have a background in edit post-production, specifically Adobe Premier, and have experience with Linux OS and file acceleration.  So, as a support person, I get to help users that are not only having editing issues, but cloud creation, and connectivity issues.

Throughout my career in broadcasting and digital streaming, I have learned the importance of staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and techniques. I am committed to continuing to learn and grow in this field, and I am excited that this opportunity to brought some of my experience and skills into play and new skill sets to the table.

33 years of experience have provided me with the expertise to tackle any challenge that comes my way. I am confident that my skills and background make me a valuable asset to the team, and I look forward to contributing to the team’s success even more. I’m on-call this holiday weekend, which had already tested my knowledge base, and with the stellar help of my teammates I have been able / we have been able to support the news divisions, while maintaining the level of support and service they not only want, but is essential to produce the news.

I am grateful for every challenge that comes my way. I am grateful to learn and grow everyday. It keeps life and my career fresh and I’m perspective everyday.

Become a SCTE SME

Where to start?

Do you want to become a SCTE (Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers)  subject matter expert (SME)?  You can take the following steps:


1. Gain a foundational understanding of SCTE technologies: Start by learning the basics of SCTE technologies, including SCTE-35, SCTE-104, and SCTE-224. This can be done by reading articles, whitepapers, and technical documentation available on the SCTE website and other industry resources.

2. Attend SCTE training courses: SCTE offers a range of training courses on various SCTE technologies, including SCTE-35, SCTE-104, and SCTE-224. These courses cover the fundamentals of the technology, best practices, and practical applications. Attending these courses can help you gain a deeper understanding of SCTE technologies and prepare you for certification.

3. Pursue SCTE certification: SCTE offers certification programs for various SCTE technologies, including SCTE-35 and SCTE-104. These programs are designed to validate the knowledge and skills of professionals working with SCTE technologies. Pursuing certification can help you establish your expertise in SCTE technologies and advance your career.

4. Participate in SCTE events and communities: SCTE hosts various events, including conferences, webinars, and workshops, where professionals can learn about the latest developments in SCTE technologies and network with other experts. Additionally, SCTE has a community forum where professionals can ask questions, share knowledge, and collaborate with other experts in the field.

By taking these steps, you can become a subject matter expert in SCTE technologies. It’s also important to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field by reading industry publications, attending conferences, and participating in online communities.

Need more info?  Sure! 

Some of the latest developments in the field of SCTE include advancements in DOCSIS 4.0 technology, the deployment of 5G networks, the adoption of cloud-based technologies, and the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in cable networks. Industry publications like Broadband Library and Cablefax, as well as conferences like SCTE Cable-Tec Expo and online communities like SCTE Connect, are great resources to stay up-to-date on these developments.

From the Sidelines to the Big Screen: How Venues are Using Projection Technology to Enhance Sports Events

Venues use projection technology to elevate the game-day experiences in several ways, including:

  • Projection Mapping: Is used to create immersive experiences for fans. Projection mapping involves projecting images and videos onto surfaces such as walls, floors, or ceilings to create the illusion of movement or depth. This technology can be used to create dynamic displays during pre-game introductions, halftime shows, or other events.
  • Digital Signage: Venues can use digital signage to display scores, stats, and other information to fans. Digital signage allows venues to update information in real-time and can be customized to display different types of content depending on the event. This technology can also be used to display advertisements or promotions to fans.
  • Interactive Displays: Venues can use interactive displays to engage fans and provide them with a more immersive experience. Interactive displays can include touchscreens, virtual reality experiences, and augmented reality experiences. These displays can be used to provide fans with information about the game, players, or venue, or they can be used to create interactive games or challenges for fans to participate in.
  • Light Shows: Venues can use projection technology to create dynamic light shows during pre-game introductions or halftime shows. This technology can be used to project images and videos onto the playing surface, creating a visually stunning display for fans.

Some other ways that venues use projection technology to elevate the game-day experience include:

  • Customizable lighting effects that change based on the game’s progress or score
  • 3D projection mapping to create a fully immersive experience
  • Interactive floor projections that respond to fans’ movements
  • Live streaming of the game on large screens
  • Use of holographic technology to bring players or mascots to life
  • Digital overlays on the playing surface to create interactive games or challenges
  • Use of LED lighting for dynamic and colorful displays
  • Real-time social media feeds displayed on screens throughout the venue
  • Use of augmented reality technology to provide fans with additional information or experiences
  • Projection of “fan cams” to engage the crowd and create a more interactive experience
  • Use of projection technology to create realistic simulations of the game or venue
  • Use of projection technology to create stunning visual effects during pre-game introductions or halftime shows
  • Projection of sponsor logos or advertisements in creative ways
  • Use of projection technology to create interactive photo booths or selfie stations for fans
  • Use of projection technology to create unique and immersive soundscapes
  • Projection of interactive games or challenges onto the walls or ceilings of the venue
  • Use of projection technology to create dynamic and engaging pre-game videos or introductions
  • Use of projection technology to create custom animations or graphics for the venue or team
  • Integration of projection technology with live music performances or concerts
  • Use of projection technology to create virtual experiences for fans who can’t attend the game in person.

Overall, the use of projection technology in venues can enhance the game-day experience for fans, providing them with new and exciting ways to engage with the game and the venue. With the continued development of projection technology, the possibilities for creating unique and immersive experiences for fans are endless.

101: Troubleshooting SCTE-35 DAI A Quick Guide

Sometimes things just don’t work. You’ve rebooted, run reports, and you just need to pause. Here are some steps to troubleshoot SCTE-35 DAI issues:

1. Check for SCTE-35 markers: The first step in troubleshooting SCTE-35 DAI issues is to check if the SCTE-35 markers are being inserted into the video stream correctly. You can use a tool like SCTE-35 Analyzer to check if the markers are being sent at the appropriate times and if their contents are correct.

2. Check your ad server: If the SCTE-35 markers are being sent correctly, the next step is to check your ad server. Ensure that the ad server is sending ad inventory to the video player at the appropriate times and that the ad creative is correct.

3. Check your video player: If the ad server is sending ad inventory correctly, the issue may be with your video player. Ensure that your video player is configured correctly to receive SCTE-35 markers and that it is capable of processing them correctly. Check the video player logs for any errors or warnings related to SCTE-35 processing.

4. Check for network issues: If the SCTE-35 markers, ad server, and video player are all working correctly, but the ads are still not showing up, there may be a network issue. Check for any network issues that may be preventing the video player from receiving the ad inventory correctly.

5. Test with different devices and platforms: If the issue is only occurring on certain devices or platforms, test with different devices and platforms to identify if it is a device-specific issue.

6. Contact your ad server or video player provider: If the above steps do not resolve the issue, contact your ad server or video player provider for further assistance. They may be able to provide more targeted troubleshooting steps or identify any issues specific to their platform.