Welcome, welcome everyone. [AVA Co-Host]
Coded conversations. [AVA Co-Host]
Unlocking the secrets of learning on your terms. [AVA Co-Host]
Whether you're prepping for a presentation [AVA Co-Host]
or just super curious about a new field. [Chip Co-Host]
Or maybe even just love learning new things. [AVA Co-Host]
Exactly. [AVA Co-Host]
And to guide us on this journey, [AVA Co-Host]
we've got a whole stack of fascinating sources. [AVA Co-Host]
Articles, definitions, some lively forum discussions. [Chip Co-Host]
Even insights from those who've mastered the art [Chip Co-Host]
of teaching themselves. [AVA Co-Host]
So, think auto didacts, those self-taught gurus. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
But it's more than just defining what self-directed learning [Chip Co-Host]
i-s. [AVA Co-Host]
It's about figuring out how w to make it work for you. [AVA Chip-Host]
Right, exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
The h-how-w and the w-h-why. [Chip Co-Host]
Can anyone become this super learner? [Chip Co-Host]
Or are some people just, I don't know, wired for it? [AVA Co-Host]
Ooh, that's a good question. [AVA Co-Host]
Before we get all philosophical, maybe [AVA Co-Host]
we should start with the basics. [AVA Co-Host]
What exactly does self-directed learning even mean? [Chip Co-Host]
Well, one of our sources, it's called VisualSP, [Chip Co-Host]
they define it as, hmm, let me see. [Chip Co-Host]
It's a learning strategy were learners [Chip Co-Host]
are in the driver's seat. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, so they're calling the shots on their own education. [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
They figure out what they need to learn, set their own goals, [Chip Co-Host]
choose their strategies, and even, get this, [Chip Co-Host]
evaluate their own performance. [AVA Co-Host]
Whoa, hold on. [AVA Co-Host]
That sounds like a lot of responsibility. [Chip Co-Host]
It is. [AVA Co-Host]
It's pretty empowering, but also kind of intimidating, [AVA Co-Host]
to be honest. [Chip Co-Host]
I agree, yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
It's like, imagine being handed the keys [Chip Co-Host]
to a super-fast race car. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, I'm picturing this. [Chip Co-Host]
And someone just says, OK, go. [Chip Co-Host]
You're in charge now. [AVA Co-Host]
Vroom. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
Exciting, right. [Chip Co-Host]
But you better know what you're doing, otherwise, crash. [AVA Co-Host]
Yikes. [AVA Co-Host]
So self-directed learning is not for the faint of heart. [Chip Co-Host]
Well, it's definitely a different approach [Chip Co-Host]
than the traditional classroom setup. [AVA Co-Host]
Right, in a classroom, you've got [AVA Co-Host]
the teacher who tells you what to learn, how to learn it, [AVA Co-Host]
and then, boom, grades you on it. [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah, and with self-directed learning, [Chip Co-Host]
you're kind of all those roles at once. [AVA Co-Host]
Yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
You become the teacher, the curriculum designer, [Chip Co-Host]
and yeah, the one giving yourself the grade. [AVA Co-Host]
Whoa. [AVA Co-Host]
So, it's all about taking ownership. [AVA Co-Host]
No more passive listening in a lecture hall. [AVA Co-Host]
You're the one actively creating your own learning path. [Chip Co-Host]
Yes. [AVA Co-Host]
But let's be real. [AVA Co-Host]
Doesn't sound easy. [Chip Co-Host]
It's not always a walk in the park. [AVA Co-Host]
Our source, Visual SP, they actually [AVA Co-Host]
point out some real challenges, things [AVA Co-Host]
that can make self-directed learning feel [AVA Co-Host]
more like an uphill climb. [Chip Co-Host]
Definitely. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, so let's talk about those roadblocks. [AVA Co-Host]
What are some of the things that might trip us up [AVA Co-Host]
on this solo learning adventure? [Chip Co-Host]
Well, I think one of the biggest ones right off the bat [Chip Co-Host]
is not even knowing where to start. [AVA Co-Host]
Oh, I feel that, especially when you're [AVA Co-Host]
diving into a brand-new field. [AVA Co-Host]
It's like information overload. [Chip Co-Host]
Totally. [Chip Co-Host]
It's a sea of information, and you're like, [Chip Co-Host]
which way do I swim? [AVA Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah. [AVA Co-Host]
And you're trying to be efficient with your time, right? [AVA Co-Host]
You don't want to waste hours on stuff that's not even relevant. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly, yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
It's got to be focused, targeted. [AVA Co-Host]
Otherwise, you're just wandering around this giant library, [AVA Co-Host]
no Dewey Decimal system, no librarian to help you out. [AVA Co-Host]
Chaos. [Chip Co-Host]
And then on top of that, there's the whole procrastination [Chip Co-Host]
thing. [AVA Co-Host]
Don't get me started. [AVA Co-Host]
I am the queen of procrastination. [Chip Co-Host]
It happens. [Chip Co-Host]
But yeah, when there's no set deadlines, no teacher [Chip Co-Host]
looking over your shoulder. [AVA Co-Host]
It's way too easy to be like, eh, I'll study tomorrow. [Chip Co-Host]
Tomorrow turns into next week, next month. [AVA Co-Host]
Exactly. [AVA Co-Host]
Maybe that's what separates the casual learners from the, [AVA Co-Host]
what did you call them, autodidact. [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah, maybe. [Chip Co-Host]
Those who actually pushed through all that. [AVA Co-Host]
It takes serious willpower. [Chip Co-Host]
Like, you know, those folks, they're [Chip Co-Host]
able to overcome these hurdles. [Chip Co-Host]
Those are the ones who are really mastering [Chip Co-Host]
self-directed learning. [AVA Co-Host]
It's like a test. [AVA Co-Host]
Builds character. [Chip Co-Host]
I like that, yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
A crucible. [AVA Co-Host]
Forging those self-directed learning superpowers. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, before we get too carried away, [AVA Co-Host]
we keep using this term autodidact. [Chip Co-Host]
True, true. [AVA Co-Host]
What exactly does that even mean? [Chip Co-Host]
Well, vocabulary.com, they put it pretty simply. [Chip Co-Host]
And autodidact is basically a self-taught person. [AVA Co-Host]
So, someone who's like going rogue, [AVA Co-Host]
learning stuff outside the traditional classroom. [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah, exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
They're learning without needing that formal teacher [Chip Co-Host]
institution. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, so it's not just about watching YouTube tutorials [AVA Co-Host]
instead of going to class. [Chip Co-Host]
No, it's deeper than that. [AVA Co-Host]
It's about that mindset, that drive [AVA Co-Host]
to learn, to seek out knowledge, to be in charge. [AVA Co-Host]
But honestly, can you really get a deep understanding [AVA Co-Host]
of something without that formal instruction? [Chip Co-Host]
Well, history is full of examples of folks [Chip Co-Host]
who did exactly that. [AVA Co-Host]
Really? [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
And if you look at these successful autodidacts, [Chip Co-Host]
one thing that really stands out is their passion. [Chip Co-Host]
They're driven. [AVA Co-Host]
Makes sense. [AVA Co-Host]
Got to be motivated if you're going it alone. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
Take Joseph Villanueva, for example. [AVA Co-Host]
Who's that? [Chip Co-Host]
He's actually featured in a Forbes article we have. [Chip Co-Host]
This guy's a successful entrepreneur, [Chip Co-Host]
built his career from the ground up, no fancy degree. [AVA Co-Host]
Wait, a successful entrepreneur, no degree? [AVA Co-Host]
How'd he pull that off? [Chip Co-Host]
Well, it wasn't all smooth sailing. [Chip Co-Host]
He ended up having to teach himself, [Chip Co-Host]
get this, the legal system. [AVA Co-Host]
What? [Chip Co-Host]
To defend himself. [AVA Co-Host]
In court? [AVA Co-Host]
Was he in trouble? [Chip Co-Host]
He was a whistleblower, went up against his former employer. [AVA Co-Host]
Wow. [AVA Co-Host]
Talk about high stakes. [Chip Co-Host]
And he won. [Chip Co-Host]
But it all started with him taking the time [Chip Co-Host]
to learn the law all on his own. [AVA Co-Host]
That's pretty incredible. [AVA Co-Host]
He turned a challenge into this huge learning opportunity. [AVA Co-Host]
And that self-reliance, that's pretty empowering. [Chip Co-Host]
Absolutely. [Chip Co-Host]
And I think that speaks to another strength [Chip Co-Host]
we see in autodidacts. [Chip Co-Host]
They tend to be pretty innovative thinkers. [AVA Co-Host]
Creative types. [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
I mean, think about it. [Chip Co-Host]
They're not stuck in the same box as traditional education. [AVA Co-Host]
Right. [AVA Co-Host]
They're free to explore, to experiment. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
And that can lead to some really outside the box thinking, [Chip Co-Host]
making connections others might miss. [AVA Co-Host]
Like they're charting their own course [AVA Co-Host]
through the world of knowledge. [Chip Co-Host]
I like that. [Chip Co-Host]
And some of history's most famous innovators, [Chip Co-Host]
they fit this mold. [Chip Co-Host]
Like Nikola Tesla, the guy who basically changed [Chip Co-Host]
the way we use electricity. [AVA Co-Host]
Tesla. [AVA Co-Host]
Oh, yeah. [AVA Co-Host]
He was a genius. [Chip Co-Host]
A lot of his work, the AC system especially, [Chip Co-Host]
that was him being largely self-taught. [AVA Co-Host]
Wow. [AVA Co-Host]
And didn't Steve Jobs, the Apple guy, [AVA Co-Host]
also have a pretty unconventional approach [AVA Co-Host]
to, well, everything? [Chip Co-Host]
He did. [Chip Co-Host]
Super intuitive with technology, never afraid [Chip Co-Host]
to question the status quo. [AVA Co-Host]
A real rebel. [Chip Co-Host]
And then you have Marie Curie. [Chip Co-Host]
Groundbreaking scientist, did amazing work [Chip Co-Host]
with radioactivity, but she faced a ton of challenges, [Chip Co-Host]
especially being a woman in a very male-dominated field [Chip Co-Host]
at the time. [AVA Co-Host]
It's incredible, though, these autodidacts. [AVA Co-Host]
You've got Tesla, Jobs, Curie, such different fields, [AVA Co-Host]
but they all share that drive to explore, to experiment, [AVA Co-Host]
to push boundaries. [AVA Co-Host]
So, what is it about self-directed learning [AVA Co-Host]
that kind of breeds these innovators? [Chip Co-Host]
Well, when you're learning on your own terms, [Chip Co-Host]
you're constantly having to be evaluating different ideas, [Chip Co-Host]
seeking out new info, figuring how it all connects in a way [Chip Co-Host]
that makes sense to you. [AVA Co-Host]
Right. [AVA Co-Host]
Not just memorizing facts from a textbook. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
It's like building your own mental model of the world [Chip Co-Host]
instead of just accepting someone else's. [AVA Co-Host]
And I bet that mental flexibility [AVA Co-Host]
helps with another autodidact strength. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [AVA Co-Host]
Adaptability. [Chip Co-Host]
Totally. [Chip Co-Host]
They're used to having to figure stuff out, [Chip Co-Host]
even when resources are limited. [AVA Co-Host]
Resourceful, too. [AVA Co-Host]
It's like necessity is the mother of invention. [AVA Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
No teacher to guide you. [Chip Co-Host]
Gotta get creative. [AVA Co-Host]
But earlier, we were talking about some people [AVA Co-Host]
being naturally wired for self-directed learning. [AVA Co-Host]
Is there any science behind that? [Chip Co-Host]
Well, there's an article on ARCHONIC, [Chip Co-Host]
and it talks about this researcher, Jonathan [Chip Co-Host]
Y., from Duke University. [Chip Co-Host]
He studies autodidacts, the psychology behind it all. [AVA Co-Host]
Ooh, the psychology of self-learning. [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
And he says, well, having a high IQ can definitely help. [AVA Co-Host]
So, the brainiacs have an edge. [Chip Co-Host]
Well, maybe. [Chip Co-Host]
But Y says the bigger factor, the one [Chip Co-Host]
that really fuels successful autodidacts, is passion. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, so passion trumps IQ. [AVA Co-Host]
That's good news for the rest of us. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
Even if you don't have a genius level IQ, [Chip Co-Host]
if you've got the passion, the drive. [AVA Co-Host]
It can still rock the self-directed learning game. [Chip Co-Host]
You got it. [Chip Co-Host]
And Y also points out another important quality. [Chip Co-Host]
It's just a natural eagerness to learn, [Chip Co-Host]
a real thirst for knowledge. [AVA Co-Host]
So not just learning to pass a test. [Chip Co-Host]
No. [Chip Co-Host]
They're curious. [Chip Co-Host]
They want to understand. [Chip Co-Host]
And that extends way beyond any classroom. [AVA Co-Host]
Makes sense. [AVA Co-Host]
They're driven by something deeper. [Chip Co-Host]
And that inner motivation, I think [Chip Co-Host]
that's what separates those who just dabble in self-learning. [AVA Co-Host]
From those who really excel. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, so we've talked about the challenges, the strengths. [AVA Co-Host]
What makes these autodidacts tick? [AVA Co-Host]
But there's always that debate, isn't there? [Chip Co-Host]
Which one? [AVA Co-Host]
Formal education versus going rogue. [AVA Co-Host]
Is one really better than the other? [Chip Co-Host]
Ah, the age-old question. [Chip Co-Host]
I actually found a Reddit forum where people are going back [Chip Co-Host]
and forth on this. [AVA Co-Host]
Ooh, a Reddit debate. [AVA Co-Host]
Those can get pretty heated. [AVA Co-Host]
What are people saying? [Chip Co-Host]
Well, on the side of formal education, [Chip Co-Host]
the main points are the structure, the access [Chip Co-Host]
to expert resources. [AVA Co-Host]
Yeah, having a teacher to guide you, that can be helpful. [Chip Co-Host]
And don't forget about networking. [Chip Co-Host]
Meeting other students, professors, [Chip Co-Host]
building those connections, that can open doors later on. [AVA Co-Host]
Good point. [AVA Co-Host]
But what about the autodidact side? [AVA Co-Host]
What are their arguments? [Chip Co-Host]
They talk a lot about the freedom [Chip Co-Host]
to learn at your own pace. [AVA Co-Host]
Right, you're not stuck on someone else's schedule. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
And of course, the cost. [Chip Co-Host]
Traditional education can be super expensive. [AVA Co-Host]
Yeah, student loans are no joke. [Chip Co-Host]
And then there's the motivation factor. [Chip Co-Host]
When you're choosing what to learn, [Chip Co-Host]
something you're truly passionate about. [AVA Co-Host]
It's got to be easier to stay engaged. [Chip Co-Host]
Right, but it doesn't have to be an either situation. [AVA Co-Host]
Oh, interesting. [AVA Co-Host]
What do you mean? [Chip Co-Host]
One of the most interesting perspectives on that forum [Chip Co-Host]
is this idea of combining the best of both worlds. [AVA Co-Host]
I'm intrigued. [AVA Co-Host]
Tell me more. [Chip Co-Host]
Think about like going to university, [Chip Co-Host]
but approaching it with that autodidact mindset. [AVA Co-Host]
So you're still in the university setting, but. [Chip Co-Host]
But you're driving your own learning, [Chip Co-Host]
using the resources and guidance when you need them, [Chip Co-Host]
but not being limited by the curriculum. [AVA Co-Host]
I like that. [AVA Co-Host]
It's like having a support system, [AVA Co-Host]
but also the freedom to explore your own interests. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly, find that balance, that sweet spot. [Chip Co-Host]
But you know, one of the big reasons [Chip Co-Host]
people are drawn to self-directed learning. [AVA Co-Host]
What's that? [Chip Co-Host]
It's that potential to learn faster, more efficiently. [AVA Co-Host]
Oh, yeah. [AVA Co-Host]
Time is precious. [AVA Co-Host]
And speaking of efficiency, we came across this amazing [AVA Co-Host]
example in our research, Scott H. Young's MIT Challenge. [AVA Co-Host]
Have you heard of this? [Chip Co-Host]
Oh, yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
That's a classic. [AVA Co-Host]
This guy, he basically decided to teach himself [AVA Co-Host]
the entire four-year MIT computer science curriculum. [AVA Co-Host]
Understatement. [AVA Co-Host]
But the crazy thing is, he did it in less than a year. [Chip Co-Host]
Wow. [Chip Co-Host]
A four-year degree crammed into one year. [Chip Co-Host]
That's next level. [Chip Co-Host]
I don't know. [Chip Co-Host]
How did he pull that off? [Chip Co-Host]
Well, it took a lot of discipline, that's for sure. [Chip Co-Host]
But he didn't just cram information. [Chip Co-Host]
He used a technique called topic threading. [AVA Co-Host]
Topic threading? [AVA Co-Host]
OK, that's a new one. [AVA Co-Host]
What is that? [Chip Co-Host]
It's actually something jazz musicians use. [AVA Co-Host]
Wait, jazz musicians? [AVA Co-Host]
I'm not seeing the connection here. [Chip Co-Host]
They practice these individual musical ideas, little riffs [Chip Co-Host]
or melodies, all separately, and then they figure out [Chip Co-Host]
how to weave them together into a song. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, I see where you're going with this. [AVA Co-Host]
So Young, he applied that same principle [AVA Co-Host]
to learning computer science. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
Instead of just memorizing facts, [Chip Co-Host]
he focused on understanding how different concepts connected [Chip Co-Host]
to each other. [AVA Co-Host]
Building that mental framework. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
Not just accumulating isolated bits of information. [AVA Co-Host]
That's brilliant. [AVA Co-Host]
It's like learning to see the forest A and D the trees. [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah, the big picture, but also the details. [AVA Co-Host]
But let's be real. [AVA Co-Host]
Not everyone can dedicate a whole year [AVA Co-Host]
to learning one thing like Young did. [AVA Co-Host]
What about those of us who are just starting out [AVA Co-Host]
with self-directed learning? [AVA Co-Host]
What are some baby steps we can take to kind of develop [AVA Co-Host]
those autodidact muscles? [Chip Co-Host]
One of the articles we found actually [Chip Co-Host]
gives some really solid advice for aspiring autodidacts. [Chip Co-Host]
And step one, it's all about becoming resourceful. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, resourceful. [AVA Co-Host]
What does that mean in this context? [Chip Co-Host]
Thinking beyond the usual textbooks and lectures. [AVA Co-Host]
So where else do you go for knowledge? [Chip Co-Host]
You could explore online libraries, for one. [Chip Co-Host]
Connect with experts, maybe through online forums. [Chip Co-Host]
There's so much out there. [AVA Co-Host]
Oh, yeah. [AVA Co-Host]
The internet is a gold mine. [AVA Co-Host]
But it's also easy to get lost down those rabbit holes. [Chip Co-Host]
True. [Chip Co-Host]
That's why being resourceful is so important. [Chip Co-Host]
You got to know how to find what you need, evaluate it, [Chip Co-Host]
and make it work for you. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, that makes sense. [AVA Co-Host]
What else? [AVA Co-Host]
What other advice does this article give? [Chip Co-Host]
Consistency is key. [AVA Co-Host]
Ah, the dreaded C word. [Chip Co-Host]
I know, but hear me out. [Chip Co-Host]
Self-directed learning, it thrives on routine. [AVA Co-Host]
So, like making a schedule, sticking to it. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
Set aside specific time for learning [Chip Co-Host]
and try to make it a regular thing, [Chip Co-Host]
even when life gets crazy. [AVA Co-Host]
That's the hard part. [Chip Co-Host]
It is, but that's where passion comes in, right? [Chip Co-Host]
If you're truly excited about what you're learning. [AVA Co-Host]
It's easier to make time for it. [Chip Co-Host]
And that brings us to the third piece of advice. [Chip Co-Host]
Nurture your curiosity. [Chip Co-Host]
Figure out what really lights you up, [Chip Co-Host]
what makes you want to learn more, [Chip Co-Host]
and dive into those topics. [AVA Co-Host]
Follow those passions. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
Genuine interest, that's the fuel that will keep you going. [AVA Co-Host]
I love that. [AVA Co-Host]
It's about finding the joy in learning, [AVA Co-Host]
not just chasing some outcome. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
The journey itself is the reward. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, before we go too far down that philosophical road, [AVA Co-Host]
I actually stumbled across a connection [AVA Co-Host]
between self-directed learning and something totally [AVA Co-Host]
unexpected, effective delegation. [Chip Co-Host]
Delegation? [Chip Co-Host]
Wait, that's like a management thing, right? [AVA Co-Host]
Yeah. [AVA Co-Host]
But one of the articles we found, [AVA Co-Host]
it talks about how important it is [AVA Co-Host]
to trust others to complete tasks their own way. [Chip Co-Host]
OK. [AVA Co-Host]
As long as the work gets done well, [AVA Co-Host]
the how doesn't really matter. [Chip Co-Host]
And you're connecting that to? [AVA Co-Host]
Well, it made me think about how autodidacts are [AVA Co-Host]
all about self-reliance. [Chip Co-Host]
Oh, yeah, I see it now. [AVA Co-Host]
Figuring things out independently, [AVA Co-Host]
even if it's messy sometimes. [AVA Co-Host]
And good delegators, they do the same thing. [AVA Co-Host]
They empower others to learn by doing. [Chip Co-Host]
Interesting parallel. [AVA Co-Host]
But let's bring it back to the individual learner. [AVA Co-Host]
We've talked a lot about theory, the psychology of it all. [AVA Co-Host]
But how do you actually translate all this knowledge [AVA Co-Host]
into action? [Chip Co-Host]
That's where this YouTube video, Armani Talks, comes in. [Chip Co-Host]
He makes a really strong case for the role [Chip Co-Host]
of experiences in self-directed learning. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, experiences. [AVA Co-Host]
How do those fit in? [Chip Co-Host]
Think about it like baking a cake. [Chip Co-Host]
In the traditional education model, [Chip Co-Host]
theory is the cake itself. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, the cake. [AVA Co-Host]
I like cake. [Chip Co-Host]
Reasoning, that's the frosting. [AVA Co-Host]
Mm, frosting. [Chip Co-Host]
And experiences, they're like the sprinkles on top. [Chip Co-Host]
Nice to have, but not essential. [AVA Co-Host]
Got it. [AVA Co-Host]
But then you're saying in the autodidact's world. [Chip Co-Host]
Experiences become the cake. [AVA Co-Host]
Whoa, a cake made of experiences. [Chip Co-Host]
Reasoning is still the frosting and the theory, [Chip Co-Host]
just the sprinkles. [AVA Co-Host]
Wow, that's a tasty analogy. [AVA Co-Host]
So, you're saying autodidacts, they [AVA Co-Host]
put more emphasis on doing rather than just knowing. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
They understand you don't really learn something [Chip Co-Host]
until you put it into practice. [AVA Co-Host]
It's about experimenting, making mistakes, [AVA Co-Host]
learning from those mistakes. [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah, and refining your understanding [Chip Co-Host]
through hands-on experience. [AVA Co-Host]
That's empowering, though. [AVA Co-Host]
Like, don't just sit around reading about it. [AVA Co-Host]
Go do it. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
Get your hands dirty. [AVA Co-Host]
This has been super fascinating, but honestly, my brain [AVA Co-Host]
is starting to feel full. [Chip Co-Host]
It's a lot to take in. [AVA Co-Host]
Information overload. [AVA Co-Host]
And I'm sure our listeners are feeling it, too. [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah, it's probably time to hand it over to them for a bit. [Chip Co-Host]
So, listeners, as we go deeper into the self-directed learning [Chip Co-Host]
thing, what's clicking for you? [Chip Co-Host]
Anything surprising? [AVA Co-Host]
Yeah. [AVA Co-Host]
Out of everything we've talked about, what stands out, [AVA Co-Host]
what makes you want to grab a notebook and start exploring? [Chip Co-Host]
While you're thinking about that, [Chip Co-Host]
I think there's one more piece of the puzzle [Chip Co-Host]
we need to talk about, goal setting. [AVA Co-Host]
Goals. [AVA Co-Host]
It seems like everything comes back to goals these days. [Chip Co-Host]
Well, for good reason. [AVA Co-Host]
I get it, though. [AVA Co-Host]
If you're in charge of your own learning, [AVA Co-Host]
you need a direction, right? [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
Otherwise, you're just lost in this sea of information. [Chip Co-Host]
No math, no compass. [Chip Co-Host]
You might end up somewhere interesting. [AVA Co-Host]
You might not end up where you wanted to go. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
So yeah, setting goals is crucial. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, but how do we make sure we're [AVA Co-Host]
setting the right kind of learning goals? [AVA Co-Host]
Are we talking like smart goals here, specific, measurable, [AVA Co-Host]
all that jazz? [Chip Co-Host]
All that good stuff, yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
Those principles definitely apply here, too. [Chip Co-Host]
Clear, actionable, all that. [Chip Co-Host]
But I also think it's super important to connect those goals [Chip Co-Host]
to your values, your interests. [AVA Co-Host]
Ooh, that's a good point. [AVA Co-Host]
So, it's not just about gaining knowledge for the sake of it. [AVA Co-Host]
It's about how that knowledge can actually help you grow, [AVA Co-Host]
maybe even make a difference in the world. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
When your learning goals are tied to something bigger, [Chip Co-Host]
something you really care about. [AVA Co-Host]
It gives it more meaning. [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
It's less about checking boxes and more about becoming [Chip Co-Host]
the best version of yourself. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, I love that. [AVA Co-Host]
It's like finding that sweet spot where your passions [AVA Co-Host]
and your purpose kind of line. [AVA Co-Host]
But even with the best intentions, [AVA Co-Host]
even with those perfectly crafted smart goals, [AVA Co-Host]
self-directed learning can be, well, tough. [Chip Co-Host]
For sure. [AVA Co-Host]
There are going to be times when you hit a wall, [AVA Co-Host]
you get discouraged. [AVA Co-Host]
What advice would you give to someone who's [AVA Co-Host]
struggling to stay on track? [Chip Co-Host]
I think the first thing to remember is, [Chip Co-Host]
you're not alone in this. [Chip Co-Host]
Every learner, even those super experienced autodidacts, [Chip Co-Host]
they face moments of doubt. [AVA Co-Host]
So, it's normal to feel discouraged sometimes. [AVA Co-Host]
It doesn't mean you're failing. [Chip Co-Host]
Not at all. [Chip Co-Host]
It's just part of the process. [Chip Co-Host]
What matters is how you deal with those feelings. [Chip Co-Host]
One thing that can really help is breaking down [Chip Co-Host]
those big, scary goals. [AVA Co-Host]
Into smaller chunks? [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
Bite-sized pieces. [AVA Co-Host]
Works for everything. [AVA Co-Host]
Writing, exercise, you name it. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
Instead of feeling overwhelmed by this massive mountain [Chip Co-Host]
you have to climb, focus on one step at a time. [AVA Co-Host]
Celebrate those little victories along the way. [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
And each step, no matter how small, it builds momentum. [AVA Co-Host]
It keeps you moving forward. [Chip Co-Host]
And sometimes a simple change of scenery can help, too. [AVA Co-Host]
Ooh, yeah. [AVA Co-Host]
I'm a big believer in that. [AVA Co-Host]
Get out of your usual study spot. [AVA Co-Host]
Maybe put on some music. [Chip Co-Host]
Or just take a walk. [Chip Co-Host]
Clear your head. [AVA Co-Host]
Totally. [AVA Co-Host]
It's like hitting the reset button on your brain. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
Sometimes all it takes is that fresh perspective [Chip Co-Host]
to kind of spark that motivation again. [Chip Co-Host]
But let's say you've tried all that, changed your environment, [Chip Co-Host]
took a break, and you're still feeling stuck. [AVA Co-Host]
What do you do then? [AVA Co-Host]
When you've exhausted all your solo strategies. [Chip Co-Host]
That's when you tap into the power of community. [AVA Co-Host]
Ah, the power of community. [AVA Co-Host]
It's amazing what we can accomplish [AVA Co-Host]
when we work together. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
Reach out to other learners. [Chip Co-Host]
Maybe join some online forums. [Chip Co-Host]
Find a mentor. [AVA Co-Host]
Even just talking to a friend who shares your interests, [AVA Co-Host]
it helps to know you're not alone in this journey. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
And speaking of community, we've got [Chip Co-Host]
all these different sources here touching [Chip Co-Host]
on all these different aspects of self-directed learning. [AVA Co-Host]
Articles, definitions, forum discussions, [AVA Co-Host]
even that YouTube video about the importance of experiences, [AVA Co-Host]
it's a lot to process. [Chip Co-Host]
It is. [Chip Co-Host]
But I think what's really fascinating [Chip Co-Host]
is how these ideas are all converging. [Chip Co-Host]
We've got stuff from education, psychology, even the arts. [AVA Co-Host]
It's like a symphony of ideas all harmonizing [AVA Co-Host]
around this central theme of self-directed learning. [Chip Co-Host]
I love that analogy. [Chip Co-Host]
And what ties it all together, I think, [Chip Co-Host]
is this emphasis on human potential. [Chip Co-Host]
This belief that anyone, no matter their background, [Chip Co-Host]
they can achieve amazing things if they take [Chip Co-Host]
charge of their own learning. [AVA Co-Host]
That's pretty inspiring. [Chip Co-Host]
It is. [Chip Co-Host]
It's about breaking down those barriers, those limiting [Chip Co-Host]
beliefs, empowering individuals. [Chip Co-Host]
But OK, let's get practical for a second. [Chip Co-Host]
We've talked about the why, the big picture stuff. [AVA Co-Host]
Right. [AVA Co-Host]
Why self-directed learning is so important. [Chip Co-Host]
But what about the HOW? [Chip Co-Host]
How do we actually make the most of this approach? [Chip Co-Host]
What are some concrete tips? [AVA Co-Host]
Give us the goods. [Chip Co-Host]
Well, one of the sources we talked about earlier, [Chip Co-Host]
the one about delegation. [AVA Co-Host]
The management article. [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah, that one actually offers some surprising insights [Chip Co-Host]
that can apply to self-directed learning too. [AVA Co-Host]
Wait, really? [AVA Co-Host]
I'm not seeing the connection. [Chip Co-Host]
It talks about the importance of setting clear expectations, [Chip Co-Host]
providing regular feedback and celebrating successes. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, but how does that translate to someone [AVA Co-Host]
who's learning independently? [AVA Co-Host]
There's no boss, no teacher to give you feedback? [Chip Co-Host]
That's where self-accountability comes in. [Chip Co-Host]
You become your own boss in a way. [AVA Co-Host]
So, you're saying, even though you're learning solo, [AVA Co-Host]
you should still set deadlines, track your progress, [AVA Co-Host]
find ways to get feedback on your work. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
Be proactive. [Chip Co-Host]
Don't just passively consume information. [AVA Co-Host]
Engage with it. [AVA Co-Host]
Apply it. [AVA Co-Host]
Put it to the test. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
And as for feedback, there are ways [Chip Co-Host]
to get that even when you're learning on your own. [Chip Co-Host]
Join online communities. [Chip Co-Host]
Participate in forums. [Chip Co-Host]
Maybe share your work with friends, mentors. [AVA Co-Host]
Ooh, or even just use those online resources [AVA Co-Host]
that give you feedback, like quizzes or practice exercises. [Chip Co-Host]
There you go. [Chip Co-Host]
It's all about being creative, finding what works for you. [AVA Co-Host]
So, we're building our own personalized learning [AVA Co-Host]
ecosystem. [Chip Co-Host]
I like that. [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
And I think that's what makes self-directed learning [Chip Co-Host]
so exciting. [Chip Co-Host]
It's flexible. [Chip Co-Host]
It's adaptable. [Chip Co-Host]
You're not limited by someone else's curriculum or teaching [Chip Co-Host]
style. [AVA Co-Host]
You're in the driver's seat. [Chip Co-Host]
And that's powerful. [Chip Co-Host]
But OK, let's talk about the elephant in the room. [Chip Co-Host]
Procrastination. [Chip Co-Host]
We all struggle with it, right? [AVA Co-Host]
Oh, tell me about it. [AVA Co-Host]
I'm a pro at procrastination. [AVA Co-Host]
But how do you fight it, especially when you're [AVA Co-Host]
the one setting the deadlines? [Chip Co-Host]
Well, I think the first step is understanding [Chip Co-Host]
that procrastination, it's usually [Chip Co-Host]
a symptom of something deeper. [AVA Co-Host]
Ooh, deep thoughts. [AVA Co-Host]
So, it's not just about being lazy or lacking discipline. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
It could be fear, anxiety, maybe even perfectionism [Chip Co-Host]
holding you back. [Chip Co-Host]
Or sometimes, just not being clear enough about your goals. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, that makes sense. [AVA Co-Host]
So, if you find yourself constantly putting things off, [AVA Co-Host]
maybe it's time to do some self-reflection, [AVA Co-Host]
figure out what's really going on. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
Get to the root of it. [Chip Co-Host]
Once you understand WOH why you're procrastinating, [Chip Co-Host]
it's easier to come up with strategies to overcome it. [AVA Co-Host]
So, if you're procrastinating because you're [AVA Co-Host]
scared of failing, maybe break that big goal down [AVA Co-Host]
into smaller, less scary steps. [Chip Co-Host]
There's that bite-sized chunk strategy again. [AVA Co-Host]
It's a classic for a reason. [AVA Co-Host]
But what about when you're just plain old distracted, [AVA Co-Host]
so many things vying for our attention these days? [AVA Co-Host]
How do you stay focused? [Chip Co-Host]
It's all about creating a distraction-free environment. [AVA Co-Host]
Easier said than done, right? [Chip Co-Host]
Well, start by identifying your triggers. [Chip Co-Host]
What are the things that pull you away from your learning? [Chip Co-Host]
Social media, email, that endless scroll. [AVA Co-Host]
Yes, all of the above. [Chip Co-Host]
Once you know what they are, you can start to minimize [Chip Co-Host]
their impact. [Chip Co-Host]
Turn off notifications. [Chip Co-Host]
Put your phone on airplane mode. [AVA Co-Host]
Find that quiet space where you can really concentrate. [AVA Co-Host]
It's like creating a little sanctuary for your brain. [Chip Co-Host]
I like that, yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
And don't be afraid to experiment. [Chip Co-Host]
Maybe you need noise-canceling headphones or a white noise [Chip Co-Host]
machine. [Chip Co-Host]
Whatever helps you get in the zone. [AVA Co-Host]
It's all about finding what works for you. [AVA Co-Host]
But speaking of works, how do you actually [AVA Co-Host]
measure progress in self-directed learning? [AVA Co-Host]
I mean, there's no report card, no grades. [AVA Co-Host]
How do you know if you're, like, succeeding? [Chip Co-Host]
That's a great question. [Chip Co-Host]
And there's no single right answer. [Chip Co-Host]
But I think it starts with defining [Chip Co-Host]
what success means to you. [AVA Co-Host]
So going back to those SMART goals, [AVA Co-Host]
making sure they're measurable. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
If your goal is to learn a new language, [Chip Co-Host]
maybe success means being able to have a simple conversation. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, that's a good concrete goal. [AVA Co-Host]
But what about those goals that are more, like, big picture? [AVA Co-Host]
Like, developing a skill or expanding your knowledge [AVA Co-Host]
in a certain field. [Chip Co-Host]
It can be harder to measure those, yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
But maybe you could create a portfolio of your work [Chip Co-Host]
or track your progress over time. [AVA Co-Host]
So, like, if you're learning to code, [AVA Co-Host]
you could keep a log of all the projects you've completed, [AVA Co-Host]
the new languages you've mastered. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
Make your learning visible. [AVA Co-Host]
It's like creating a map of your learning journey. [AVA Co-Host]
But even with the best map, there [AVA Co-Host]
are going to be times when you hit a plateau. [Chip Co-Host]
Those plateaus, they're a normal part of learning. [Chip Co-Host]
But they can be so frustrating. [Chip Co-Host]
It's like you're putting in the effort, [Chip Co-Host]
but not seeing any results. [AVA Co-Host]
Totally. [AVA Co-Host]
It makes you want to give up. [Chip Co-Host]
I know. [Chip Co-Host]
But it's important to remember, learning isn't always linear. [Chip Co-Host]
Some days you'll make huge leaps forward. [Chip Co-Host]
Other days, it'll feel like you're barely moving. [AVA Co-Host]
So, it's OK to have those ups and downs. [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah, it's all part of the process. [Chip Co-Host]
The key is not to get discouraged. [Chip Co-Host]
See those plateaus as an opportunity [Chip Co-Host]
to reevaluate your approach. [Chip Co-Host]
Maybe try something new. [AVA Co-Host]
Get feedback from others. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [AVA Co-Host]
So, embrace the journey, even the bumpy parts. [Chip Co-Host]
Because that's where the real growth happens. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, let's talk about the long game. [AVA Co-Host]
How do you keep that momentum going over time? [Chip Co-Host]
How do you make self-directed learning a habit, something [Chip Co-Host]
you do for life? [AVA Co-Host]
Yeah, not just a one-time project. [Chip Co-Host]
Well, I think it starts with cultivating [Chip Co-Host]
a love of learning, just for the pure joy of it. [AVA Co-Host]
Not for a grade, not for a job, just because you love to learn. [Chip Co-Host]
Right, it's about tapping into that natural curiosity [Chip Co-Host]
we all have. [Chip Co-Host]
What are you passionate about? [Chip Co-Host]
What makes you excited to learn more? [AVA Co-Host]
Follow those passions, those sparks of interest. [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah, and see where they lead you. [Chip Co-Host]
Let your curiosity be your guide. [AVA Co-Host]
It's like rediscovering that childlike sense of wonder, [AVA Co-Host]
seeing learning as an adventure, not a chore. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
And don't be afraid to branch out. [Chip Co-Host]
Try new things. [Chip Co-Host]
You never know what might spark a new passion. [AVA Co-Host]
Or lead you down a totally unexpected path. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, let's bring it back down to earth for a minute. [AVA Co-Host]
What are some concrete habits or routines [AVA Co-Host]
that can help make self-directed learning [AVA Co-Host]
a sustainable part of our lives? [Chip Co-Host]
One thing I find super helpful is scheduling dedicated learning [Chip Co-Host]
time into my week. [AVA Co-Host]
There's that scheduling word again. [AVA Co-Host]
I knew it. [Chip Co-Host]
I know, I know. [Chip Co-Host]
But it really does help. [Chip Co-Host]
Treat it like any other important appointment. [AVA Co-Host]
Block it out in your calendar. [AVA Co-Host]
Set reminders. [Chip Co-Host]
Make it non-negotiable. [AVA Co-Host]
But what if you just can't find a big chunk of time [AVA Co-Host]
to dedicate to learning every week? [AVA Co-Host]
Life gets busy, you know? [Chip Co-Host]
Start small. [Chip Co-Host]
Even 15 minutes a day can add up. [AVA Co-Host]
It's all about consistency, building that habit. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
And another thing that can help is creating [Chip Co-Host]
a dedicated learning space. [AVA Co-Host]
Ooh, a learning space. [AVA Co-Host]
I love that idea. [AVA Co-Host]
But what if you don't have a lot of room? [Chip Co-Host]
It doesn't have to be anything fancy. [Chip Co-Host]
A desk, a corner in your living room, even a comfy chair [Chip Co-Host]
in your favorite coffee shop. [AVA Co-Host]
It's about having a place where you can focus, right? [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
A place where you can minimize distractions. [AVA Co-Host]
A sanctuary for your brain. [Chip Co-Host]
I love that. [Chip Co-Host]
But creating that physical space is just one part of it. [Chip Co-Host]
There's also the mental side. [AVA Co-Host]
Right. [AVA Co-Host]
How do you stay motivated when you're the one in charge? [Chip Co-Host]
That's where realistic expectations come in. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, what does that mean in the context [AVA Co-Host]
of self-directed learning? [Chip Co-Host]
It's about being kind to yourself, [Chip Co-Host]
recognizing that learning takes time. [AVA Co-Host]
We're not all going to become experts overnight. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
Celebrate those small wins. [Chip Co-Host]
Don't beat yourself up when you make mistakes. [AVA Co-Host]
Mistakes are just learning opportunities in disguise. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [AVA Co-Host]
It's about enjoying the journey, not just [AVA Co-Host]
focusing on the destination. [Chip Co-Host]
And remember, you don't have to do this alone. [Chip Co-Host]
Reach out for support when you need it. [Chip Co-Host]
Connect with other learners. [Chip Co-Host]
Find a mentor. [AVA Co-Host]
Community is everything. [Chip Co-Host]
It really is. [Chip Co-Host]
Sharing your learning journey with others [Chip Co-Host]
can make it so much more enjoyable. [Chip Co-Host]
But we've talked about a lot of practical stuff today. [Chip Co-Host]
Goal setting, active recall, finding resources, [Chip Co-Host]
building community. [AVA Co-Host]
Our brains are full. [Chip Co-Host]
I know, right? [Chip Co-Host]
But I want to end this part of our deep dive [Chip Co-Host]
with a slightly bigger question. [Chip Co-Host]
What does it all mean? [Chip Co-Host]
Why should we even care about this self-directed learning [Chip Co-Host]
stuff? [AVA Co-Host]
Ooh, getting philosophical. [Chip Co-Host]
I think it goes beyond just like learning a new skill [Chip Co-Host]
or getting a better job. [AVA Co-Host]
It's about something bigger. [Chip Co-Host]
It's about developing this mindset of lifelong learning. [AVA Co-Host]
Always growing, always evolving. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
And in a world that's changing so fast. [AVA Co-Host]
Where technology is constantly advancing, [AVA Co-Host]
new jobs are emerging. [Chip Co-Host]
The ability to learn and adapt, that's more valuable than ever. [Chip Co-Host]
Self-directed learning gives you that power. [AVA Co-Host]
The power to shape your own future. [Chip Co-Host]
And that's a powerful thing. [Chip Co-Host]
Imagine a world where everyone embraced that idea. [AVA Co-Host]
A world where everyone embraces that power [AVA Co-Host]
to learn to shape their own future. [AVA Co-Host]
I like that. [Chip Co-Host]
It's a powerful vision. [Chip Co-Host]
A world where curiosity is celebrated. [AVA Co-Host]
Where learning is just woven into everyday life, [AVA Co-Host]
not just something you do in school. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
Lifelong learning. [Chip Co-Host]
And honestly, I think we're getting closer to that vision. [AVA Co-Host]
Really? [AVA Co-Host]
You think so? [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
Think about all the tools and resources we have now. [Chip Co-Host]
The internet has made information so much more [Chip Co-Host]
accessible. [AVA Co-Host]
True. [AVA Co-Host]
Online courses, open-source textbooks, virtual communities. [AVA Co-Host]
It's mind boggling, the amount of stuff out there. [Chip Co-Host]
It really is. [Chip Co-Host]
The possibilities are limitless. [AVA Co-Host]
But OK, that can also be a problem, right? [AVA Co-Host]
Too many options. [AVA Co-Host]
It's overwhelming. [AVA Co-Host]
How do you even know where to start? [Chip Co-Host]
That's where community comes in. [AVA Co-Host]
Yes, our trusty community. [Chip Co-Host]
It's not just about accessing information. [Chip Co-Host]
It's about connecting with other learners. [AVA Co-Host]
People who share your passions, who [AVA Co-Host]
can push you to be better. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
They challenge you. [Chip Co-Host]
They support you. [Chip Co-Host]
They inspire you. [AVA Co-Host]
Community is key. [AV Co-Host]
But how do you actually build that support network? [AVA Co-Host]
Where do you find these awesome learning buddies? [Chip Co-Host]
Well, online forums and communities, [Chip Co-Host]
those are a great place to start. [AVA Co-Host]
Oh, yeah. [AVA Co-Host]
The online rabbit holes. [AVA Co-Host]
I've lost many hours in those. [AVA Co-Host]
But I've also met some amazing people, [AVA Co-Host]
discovered resources I never would have found on my own. [Chip Co-Host]
It's incredible how the internet can bring people together, [Chip Co-Host]
right, around shared interests, no matter [Chip Co-Host]
where they are in the world. [Chip Co-Host]
And those online spaces can be a real source of support. [AVA Co-Host]
A sense of belonging. [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah, and a place to ask questions, share resources, [Chip Co-Host]
get feedback on your work. [AVA Co-Host]
Like having a global network of study buddies. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
But don't limit yourself to the online world. [Chip Co-Host]
There's also your local community. [AVA Co-Host]
Right. [AVA Co-Host]
Libraries, community centers, adult education programs. [Chip Co-Host]
All kinds of opportunities to explore new things [Chip Co-Host]
and meet people who are on that same learning journey. [AVA Co-Host]
Libraries are the best. [AVA Co-Host]
Such a wealth of knowledge, and usually for free. [AVA Co-Host]
And those adult ed courses, those can be fun. [Chip Co-Host]
They are. [Chip Co-Host]
A great way to step outside your comfort zone, [Chip Co-Host]
try something new. [AVA Co-Host]
And speaking of stepping outside your comfort zone, [AVA Co-Host]
what about mentorship? [AVA Co-Host]
Finding someone who's like already achieved [AVA Co-Host]
what you want to achieve. [Chip Co-Host]
Mentorship can be so valuable. [AVA Co-Host]
But how do you even find a mentor? [AVA Co-Host]
It seems kind of intimidating. [Chip Co-Host]
It can be. [Chip Co-Host]
But I think the best way is to start [Chip Co-Host]
with your existing network. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, so look around, see who you already know. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
Think about people who work in fields that interest you, [Chip Co-Host]
or who have skills you'd like to develop. [Chip Co-Host]
Reach out to them, have a conversation. [AVA Co-Host]
You never know who might be willing to share [AVA Co-Host]
their knowledge and experience. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
And mentorship doesn't have to be this formal thing. [Chip Co-Host]
Sometimes the best learning happens organically [Chip Co-Host]
through those casual conversations [Chip Co-Host]
with people you admire. [AVA Co-Host]
Just soaking up their wisdom. [AVA Co-Host]
Be a sponge. [AVA Co-Host]
But OK, let's say you've found a mentor. [AVA Co-Host]
You've joined some online communities. [AVA Co-Host]
You're taking a course at the local library. [AVA Co-Host]
What's the key to making those connections really count? [AVA Co-Host]
How do you make sure you're getting the most out of them? [Chip Co-Host]
I think it comes down to cultivating those qualities [Chip Co-Host]
of a good learner. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, what does that look like? [Chip Co-Host]
Be humble. [Chip Co-Host]
Be curious. [Chip Co-Host]
And be willing to contribute. [AVA Co-Host]
Humility, curiosity, and generosity. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
Approach those relationships with a genuine desire to learn, [Chip Co-Host]
but also, be ready to share your own knowledge and insights. [Chip Co-Host]
It's a two-way street. [AVA Co-Host]
I love that. [AVA Co-Host]
Everyone has something to teach and something to learn. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, we've covered a lot of ground in this deep dive. [AVA Co-Host]
Strategies, resources, the importance of community. [Chip Co-Host]
We even got a little philosophical there [Chip Co-Host]
for a minute. [AVA Co-Host]
We did. [AVA Co-Host]
But before we wrap things up, I want [AVA Co-Host]
to circle back to that bigger question. [AVA Co-Host]
What's the point of all this? [AVA Co-Host]
Why is self-directed learning so important? [Chip Co-Host]
You know, I think it goes way beyond just acquiring [Chip Co-Host]
knowledge or skills. [Chip Co-Host]
It's about developing this mindset, [Chip Co-Host]
a mindset of lifelong learning, always growing, always [Chip Co-Host]
evolving. [AVA Co-Host]
It's about recognizing that learning isn't just [AVA Co-Host]
something we do in school. [AVA Co-Host]
It's a part of who we are as humans. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
And I truly believe that this mindset [Chip Co-Host]
is essential for navigating this crazy, ever-changing world [Chip Co-Host]
we live in. [AVA Co-Host]
The jobs of tomorrow, they might not even exist today. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
The skills we need, they're always evolving. [Chip Co-Host]
So, we have to be adaptable. [AVA Co-Host]
Always learning, always growing. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
Self-directed learning, it gives you the tools [Chip Co-Host]
to take control, to shape your own future. [AVA Co-Host]
Be the architect of your own life. [Chip Co-Host]
Yes. [Chip Co-Host]
Design your own learning path. [Chip Co-Host]
Build the future you want to see. [Chip Co-Host]
And I think that's something worth striving for. [AVA Co-Host]
I agree. [AVA Co-Host]
It's a vision that gives me hope, a world where everyone [AVA Co-Host]
has that opportunity to learn, to grow, [AVA Co-Host]
to reach their full potential. [Chip Co-Host]
It's a beautiful thing. [AVA Co-Host]
It is. [AVA Co-Host]
Well, today, we're going all in on video. [AVA Co-Host]
Oh, yeah. [AVA Co-Host]
You got it. [AVA Co-Host]
We're talking Handbrake, this open-source video tool. [AVA Co-Host]
Seems like it's caught your eye. [Chip Co-Host]
I've seen it around. [AVA Co-Host]
Yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
People are comparing it to other software. [AVA Co-Host]
So obviously, something's got everyone buzzing [AVA Co-Host]
about this Handbrake thing. [Chip Co-Host]
Definitely piques some interest. [AVA Co-Host]
Our mission, should we choose to accept it, [AVA Co-Host]
is to figure out what exactly makes Handbrake so special. [Chip Co-Host]
Sounds like a plan. [AVA Co-Host]
Why is everyone so excited about it being free? [Chip Co-Host]
The price is definitely right. [AVA Co-Host]
Yeah. [AVA Co-Host]
And most importantly, how can it be like a secret weapon [AVA Co-Host]
for our listeners out there, especially [AVA Co-Host]
if they're running a small business, [AVA Co-Host]
or maybe they've got a startup, or if they just [AVA Co-Host]
love learning new things like we do? [Chip Co-Host]
Always up for something new. [AVA Co-Host]
So, what's the deal with Handbrake? [Chip Co-Host]
Well, all this excitement about Handbrake, [Chip Co-Host]
it's totally justified. [Chip Co-Host]
It's a powerful tool, lets you change those video files, [Chip Co-Host]
pretty much any format you can think of. [AVA Co-Host]
No way. [Chip Co-Host]
Into something you can actually use. [Chip Co-Host]
And you're right, totally free. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, so free is always good. [AVA Co-Host]
But you know me. [Chip Co-Host]
A little skeptical. [AVA Co-Host]
I got to ask, is there a catch? [AVA Co-Host]
Are there like limitations, or maybe they've [AVA Co-Host]
got features hidden behind, like a paywall or something? [Chip Co-Host]
Nope, no catch. [Chip Co-Host]
Handbrake is really, truly free. [Chip Co-Host]
No strings attached. [Chip Co-Host]
It's a total game changer for anyone, really, [Chip Co-Host]
who wants to make high quality videos without breaking [Chip Co-Host]
the bank on software. [AVA Co-Host]
That's massive. [AVA Co-Host]
Especially for like small businesses, [AVA Co-Host]
or if you're just starting out. [AVA Co-Host]
Imagine making those professional looking videos [AVACo-Host]
without like the crazy software costs. [AVA Co-Host]
That's a huge win, right? [Chip Co-Host]
Absolutely. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, so in the stuff you sent, a lot of people [AVA Co-Host]
are comparing Handbrake to this FFMPEG thing. [AVA Co-Host]
What is that? [AVA Co-Host]
Is that another video tool? [Chip Co-Host]
It is. [AVA Co-Host]
Oh, OK. [Chip Co-Host]
Think of FFMPEG, like the ultimate video editing [Chip Co-Host]
powerhouse. [AVA Co-Host]
Wow. [Chip Co-Host]
Incredibly powerful and flexible. [Chip Co-Host]
I mean, you can do almost anything [Chip Co-Host]
you can dream up with video. [AVA Co-Host]
No kidding? [Chip Co-Host]
But here's the thing. [Chip Co-Host]
FFMPEG is command line based, meaning no fancy buttons, [Chip Co-Host]
no menus, it's all code. [AVA Co-Host]
So, you've got to be like a coding wizard. [Chip Co-Host]
Pretty much. [Chip Co-Host]
You need to know how to code to really use it well. [AVA Co-Host]
So basically, Handbrake is the user-friendly version, right? [AVA Co-Host]
For those of us who aren't exactly coding ninjas. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
Handbrake has this simple visual interface, [Chip Co-Host]
easy for anyone to use, even if you're a total beginner. [Chip Co-Host]
Think of it like this. [Chip Co-Host]
If Handbrake is like a Swiss army knife for video editing. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, I like that. [Chip Co-Host]
FFMPEG is like a whole workshop full of specialized tools. [AVA Co-Host]
Oh, wow. [Chip Co-Host]
Both have their uses. [Chip Co-Host]
It just depends, what you need and how much experience [Chip Co-Host]
you have. [AVA Co-Host]
That makes a lot of sense. [AVA Co-Host]
It sounds like Handbrake really strikes that balance, though, [AVA Co-Host]
between being powerful and easy to use. [AVA Co-Host]
But one thing that really stood out to me [AVA Co-Host]
from all this stuff you sent, Handbrake's not just [AVA Co-Host]
about converting video formats. [AVA Co-Host]
There's way more to it, isn't there? [Chip Co-Host]
Oh, absolutely. [AVA Co-Host]
Like, what's going on under the hood? [Chip Co-Host]
One of Handbrake's best features, video compression. [Chip Co-Host]
It can take these huge video files [Chip Co-Host]
and make them smaller, more manageable, [Chip Co-Host]
and it doesn't sacrifice too much quality. [AVA Co-Host]
So that's how people get those videos onto YouTube [AVA Co-Host]
or share them online without it taking forever to load. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
And it's not just about shrinking file sizes. [Chip Co-Host]
Handbrake can also optimize videos. [AVA Co-Host]
What do you mean? [Chip Co-Host]
They can make them look their best on specific devices, [Chip Co-Host]
like your smartphone or tablet or even [Chip Co-Host]
on a streaming platform. [Chip Co-Host]
And they've got these things called presets, [Chip Co-Host]
which are pre-configured settings for all kinds [Chip Co-Host]
of different situations. [Chip Co-Host]
Presets! [AVA Co-Host]
So, it's like having a video expert whispering in your ear, [AVA Co-Host]
like, hey, use these settings. [AVA Co-Host]
They're going to work great. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [AVA Co-Host]
But what about those of us who like to tinker a bit, [AVA Co-Host]
have more control over things? [AVA Co-Host]
Does Handbrake let you do that? [Chip Co-Host]
Absolutely. [Chip Co-Host]
The presets are great if you want [Chip Co-Host]
to do things quick and easy. [Chip Co-Host]
But Handbrake also gives you total control. [Chip Co-Host]
You can dive into those nitty gritty settings, [Chip Co-Host]
like resolution, frame rate, and codecs if you want. [AVA Co-Host]
OK. [AVA Co-Host]
Now we're talking. [AVA Co-Host]
Some of those terms, though, they're [AVA Co-Host]
a bit technical for me. [AVA Co-Host]
How does Handbrake actually make videos look good, [AVA Co-Host]
for those of us who aren't tech wizards? [Chip Co-Host]
Sure, sure. [Chip Co-Host]
Let's start with resolution. [Chip Co-Host]
That's basically how many pixels are in your video. [Chip Co-Host]
More pixels, more detail, more sharpness. [AVA Co-Host]
Gotcha. [Chip Co-Host]
Then there's frame rate, which is [Chip Co-Host]
how smooth the motion looks, and codecs. [Chip Co-Host]
Well, those are like the language [Chip Co-Host]
your computer uses to understand and play video. [Chip Co-Host]
The cool thing about Handbrake is [Chip Co-Host]
that it takes all this complex tech stuff [Chip Co-Host]
and makes it simple. [Chip Co-Host]
You don't need to be a video engineer to use it. [AVA Co-Host]
That's good to hear. [AVA Co-Host]
So, Handbrake translates our creative vision [AVA Co-Host]
into a language that our devices can understand. [AVA Co-Host]
That's pretty awesome. [Chip Co-Host]
It is. [Chip Co-Host]
And one example that shows how powerful Handbrake can be [Chip Co-Host]
is how it uses something called a rate factor. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, yeah, I saw that in some of those articles. [AVA Co-Host]
What's so special about this rate factor? [Chip Co-Host]
It manages the balance between quality and file size. [Chip Co-Host]
Imagine shrinking a 2GB video file down to 500 milli beat [Chip Co-Host]
using a rate factor of 23. [Chip Co-Host]
People watching wouldn't even notice a difference in quality. [Chip Co-Host]
That's the kind of magic Handbrake can do. [AVA Co-Host]
Hold on. [AVA Co-Host]
So, I can make my videos a lot smaller, [AVA Co-Host]
but the quality stays good? [AVA Co-Host]
That changes everything. [Chip Co-Host]
It's pretty incredible. [Chip Co-Host]
And that's one of the many reasons [Chip Co-Host]
Handbrake has become so popular. [Chip Co-Host]
It gives you so much control over your videos, [Chip Co-Host]
but without all the complexity. [AVA Co-Host]
Wow, OK. [AVA Co-Host]
Shrinking a 2GB file down to 500 millibeat [AVA Co-Host]
and keeping the quality? [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah. [AVA Co-Host]
That's like some serious video voodoo. [Chip Co-Host]
That's impressive. [AVA Co-Host]
But let's back up for a sec. [AVA Co-Host]
Tell me more about this rate factor thing. [AVA Co-Host]
It sounds like a secret weapon for video ninjas. [Chip Co-Host]
It's definitely one of Handbrake's most powerful [Chip Co-Host]
features. [AVA Co-Host]
Yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
The rate factor, or RF for short, [Chip Co-Host]
it controls how much Handbrake compresses your video. [Chip Co-Host]
And remember, compression, it's all [Chip Co-Host]
about finding that sweet spot. [Chip Co-Host]
Reducing file size without killing the quality. [AVA Co-Host]
Right. [AVA Co-Host]
Because nobody wants to watch a video that looks [AVA Co-Host]
like it was filmed on a potato, even if it loads super fast. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
And that's where RF comes in. [Chip Co-Host]
It gives you super fine control. [AVA Co-Host]
Oh, OK. [Chip Co-Host]
A lower RF value means you get less compression. [Chip Co-Host]
So, you get a higher quality video, [Chip Co-Host]
but the file size is going to be bigger. [AVA Co-Host]
So, lower RF is kind of like when you [AVA Co-Host]
pick that high quality setting on a streaming service, right? [AVA Co-Host]
And then higher RF is like data saver mode. [Chip Co-Host]
That's a great way to think about it. [Chip Co-Host]
And with Handbrake, you get to choose. [Chip Co-Host]
Pick the perfect RF value for whatever you're doing. [Chip Co-Host]
Remember that example, RF of 23? [AVA Co-Host]
Yeah, the one that's supposed to be the best of both worlds. [AVA Co-Host]
Smaller file, but you don't lose much quality. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
It's a popular choice for a reason. [AVA Co-Host]
Yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
But the cool thing about Handbrake [Chip Co-Host]
is you can play around with different RF values. [AVA Co-Host]
Oh, cool. [Chip Co-Host]
See what works best for your videos. [AVA Co-Host]
I like that. [AVA Co-Host]
OK, so let's say I'm making a video for my website. [AVA Co-Host]
Quality's super important there. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [AVA Co-Host]
So, I might use a lower RF. [AVA Co-Host]
But if I'm just sharing a quick tip or something [AVA Co-Host]
on social media, I could crank that RF up, [AVA Co-Host]
keep the file size small so it uploads faster. [Chip Co-Host]
You got it. [Chip Co-Host]
That's what's so great about Handbrake. [Chip Co-Host]
That doesn't limit you. [Chip Co-Host]
Gives you that freedom to experiment, you know? [AVA Co-Host]
Yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
Learn, create those videos that are perfect for what you need. [AVA Co-Host]
I love having that control. [AVA Co-Host]
But OK, full disclosure, I'm still a little lost [AVA Co-Host]
on the whole codec thing. [Chip Co-Host]
Ah, codecs. [AVA Co-Host]
Yeah, it sounds kind of intimidating. [Chip Co-Host]
It seems that way, but they're really not that bad. [Chip Co-Host]
Think of a codec, like a translator for your video. [Chip Co-Host]
It takes the raw video data and compresses it. [AVA Co-Host]
OK. [Chip Co-Host]
Puts it into a format that your computer or your device [Chip Co-Host]
can understand so it can play it. [AVA Co-Host]
So, it's like the language of video. [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah. [AVA Co-Host]
And different devices speak different video languages. [Chip Co-Host]
We got it. [Chip Co-Host]
And there are so many different video codecs out there. [AVA Co-Host]
Really? [Chip Co-Host]
Each one has its pros and cons. [Chip Co-Host]
Some are good at squeezing the video down. [AVA Co-Host]
OK. [Chip Co-Host]
Some are better at keeping the quality high. [Chip Co-Host]
And some are just more widely used. [Chip Co-Host]
They work with more devices. [AVA Co-Host]
That makes sense. [AVA Co-Host]
But how do we know which codec to use? [AVA Co-Host]
Does Handbrake help us with that? [Chip Co-Host]
Oh, totally. [Chip Co-Host]
Handbrake is like a multilingual video expert. [Chip Co-Host]
Supports a huge range of codecs. [Chip Co-Host]
And it can even suggest the best one for you. [Chip Co-Host]
And you guessed it, those handy presets we keep talking about. [Chip Co-Host]
They usually have the right codec already picked out. [AVA Co-Host]
Those presets are like little life rafts in this sea [AVA Co-Host]
of video tech. [AVA Co-Host]
So, let's say I'm making a video for YouTube. [AVA Co-Host]
Handbrake will automatically pick a codec [AVA Co-Host]
that plays nice with YouTube. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
It takes care of all the technical stuff [Chip Co-Host]
behind the scenes so you don't have to worry about it. [AVA Co-Host]
Awesome. [AVA Co-Host]
This is starting to make sense now. [AVA Co-Host]
Are there any codecs that are super popular or really [AVA Co-Host]
versatile ones that we should keep in mind? [Chip Co-Host]
That's a good question. [Chip Co-Host]
There are definitely some big names in the codec world [Chip Co-Host]
that you'll see a lot. [Chip Co-Host]
One is H.264, also called ADC. [Chip Co-Host]
It's a good balance of quality and file size. [Chip Co-Host]
And it's pretty much compatible with everything. [Chip Co-Host]
It's the go-to for videos online, [Chip Co-Host]
or if you're playing them on a bunch of different devices. [AVA Co-Host]
H.2654, I've seen that one around. [AVA Co-Host]
What else is there? [Chip Co-Host]
Another popular one is HEVC, which is also called H.265. [Chip Co-Host]
It's newer. [Chip Co-Host]
And it gives you even better compression than H.264. [AVA Co-Host]
Really? [Chip Co-Host]
You can get smaller files and still keep the quality high. [AVA Co-Host]
Smaller files, better quality. [AVA Co-Host]
HEVC sounds like a winner. [AVA Co-Host]
Is there a downside? [Chip Co-Host]
The main thing is it's not as widely supported as H.264. [AVA Co-Host]
Oh, OK. [Chip Co-Host]
Especially on older devices. [AVA Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
But newer devices and streaming platforms [Chip Co-Host]
are using it more and more because it's so efficient. [AVA Co-Host]
So, if I want everyone to be able to watch my video no matter [AVA Co-Host]
what device they're using, H.264 is probably the safer bet. [Chip Co-Host]
Probably. [AVA Co-Host]
But if I'm going for the best quality and small file sizes, [AVA Co-Host]
and I know my audience has the latest gadgets, [AVA Co-Host]
then HEVC is the way to go. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
And of course, Handbrake can handle both of these codecs. [Chip Co-Host]
It even has presets for them, so you don't even [Chip Co-Host]
have to think about it. [AVA Co-Host]
This is great. [AVA Co-Host]
I feel like we're cracking the code video here. [Chip Co-Host]
Oh, getting there. [AVA Co-Host]
But I'm realizing we've been so deep in the technical stuff. [AVA Co-Host]
We haven't really talked about how all this applies [AVA Co-Host]
to different people. [AVA Co-Host]
How can they use Handbrake in their own lives? [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah, let's bring it back to our listeners. [Chip Co-Host]
Show them how Handbrake can help them. [Chip Co-Host]
So, let's switch gears and talk about some real world [Chip Co-Host]
situations. [AVA Co-Host]
Love it. [AVA Co-Host]
Let's start with small businesses. [Chip Co-Host]
OK. [AVA Co-Host]
How can Handbrake help them make awesome videos, ones [AVA Co-Host]
that can compete with those big budget productions? [Chip Co-Host]
That's where Handbrake really shines. [AVA Co-Host]
Yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
Imagine you're a small business owner, right? [AVA Co-Host]
Yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
You don't have a ton of resources. [Chip Co-Host]
You want to make those cool marketing videos, product demos, [Chip Co-Host]
maybe even online courses, attract new customers, [Chip Co-Host]
grow your business. [AVA Co-Host]
Right, but those fancy video editing programs, [AVA Co-Host]
they can cost a fortune. [AVA Co-Host]
And hiring a whole production crew, [AVA Co-Host]
that's just not realistic for a lot of small businesses. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
And that's where Handbrake comes in. [Chip Co-Host]
You can make those professional looking videos [Chip Co-Host]
without spending a ton of money. [AVA Co-Host]
Wow. [Chip Co-Host]
Convert your existing videos to different formats, [Chip Co-Host]
compress them so they're easy to share online. [AVA Co-Host]
OK. [Chip Co-Host]
Even optimize them for different social media platforms. [AVA Co-Host]
So, you could take a video you shot on your phone, [AVA Co-Host]
make it look amazing in Handbrake, [AVA Co-Host]
and suddenly you've got this super engaging marketing video. [Chip Co-Host]
Exactly. [Chip Co-Host]
And it's so easy to use. [Chip Co-Host]
You don't need any special skills to get great results. [AVA Co-Host]
That's so cool. [AVA Co-Host]
It's like leveling the playing field, right? [AVA Co-Host]
Small businesses can compete with the big guys [AVA Co-Host]
without going broke. [Chip Co-Host]
It is. [Chip Co-Host]
And it's not just marketing videos. [Chip Co-Host]
Handbrake can also be a game changer for entrepreneurs [Chip Co-Host]
who are making online courses or training videos. [AVA Co-Host]
Oh, yeah. [AVA Co-Host]
That's a great point. [AVA Co-Host]
Online learning is huge these days. [Chip Co-Host]
It is. [AVA Co-Host]
Handbrake can help entrepreneurs make those high quality videos. [Chip Co-Host]
Absolutely. [Chip Co-Host]
You can use Handbrake to shrink down those long lecture videos. [AVA Co-Host]
OK. [Chip Co-Host]
Make them smaller so they're easier to download, easier [Chip Co-Host]
to stream. [AVA Co-Host]
That's super important, especially [AVA Co-Host]
for students who might not have the fastest internet. [Chip Co-Host]
Definitely. [Chip Co-Host]
Accessibility is key. [Chip Co-Host]
Handbrake makes it so easy to create video content [Chip Co-Host]
that everyone can watch no matter what technology they're [Chip Co-Host]
using. [AVA Co-Host]
This is incredible. [AVA Co-Host]
It feels like Handbrake is more than just a video tool. [AVA Co-Host]
It's like a tool for creativity, innovation, and bringing people [AVA Co-Host]
together. [Chip Co-Host]
I totally agree. [Chip Co-Host]
And we've only scratched the surface. [Chip Co-Host]
In the next part, we'll dive into even more creative ways [Chip Co-Host]
to use Handbrake. [Chip Co-Host]
And we'll give you some ideas to get those video juices flowing. [AVA Co-Host]
I can't wait. [AVA Co-Host]
Until then, keep those creative sparks flying. [AVA Co-Host]
We'll see you back here soon for the grand finale of our Handbrake [AVA Co-Host]
deep dive. [Chip Co-Host]
Hey, everyone. [Chip Co-Host]
Really excited about this one because we're [Chip Co-Host]
going to be exploring two powerhouses you might not [Chip Co-Host]
know about yet. [AVA Co-Host]
OK. [Chip Co-Host]
BizTalk.Social [AVA Co-Host]
I'm so stoked. [Chip Co-Host]
And the Business Ecosystems Network, or BEN. [Chip Co-Host]
Have you heard of that one? [AVA Co-Host]
I have heard of both of those, actually. [AVA Co-Host]
Yeah, they've been turning heads lately. [AVA Co-Host]
And not just for the catchy names, [AVA Co-Host]
there's real substance to what they're [AVA Co-Host]
doing to support these micro businesses, which [AVA Co-Host]
anyone who's tried it knows there's no walk in the park. [Chip Co-Host]
No walk in the park is an understatement. [Chip Co-Host]
I was looking at the research that you sent over. [Chip Co-Host]
And get this, over 80% of micro businesses in the US [Chip Co-Host]
have zero employees. [AVA Co-Host]
Wow. [Chip Co-Host]
That's a lot of solopreneurs just battling it out. [AVA Co-Host]
Yeah, it's a lot of responsibility [AVA Co-Host]
on one person's shoulders. [AVA Co-Host]
And that's just the tip of the iceberg. [Chip Co-Host]
What else? [AVA Co-Host]
I mean, imagine trying to compete in a market dominated [AVA Co-Host]
by these huge corporations. [AVA Co-Host]
But you're a one person show. [AVA Co-Host]
You're the marketing department, you're customer service, [AVA Co-Host]
you're the accountant, sometimes all before you've [AVA Co-Host]
had your morning coffee. [Chip Co-Host]
Right, exactly. [AVA Co-Host]
So, it's no wonder that so many of these micro businesses [AVA Co-Host]
struggle to break through. [Chip Co-Host]
It's like trying to juggle chainsaws [Chip Co-Host]
while you're running a marathon. [Chip Co-Host]
It's impressive if you can do it. [AVA Co-Host]
It is impressive. [Chip Co-Host]
But also, probably a recipe for disaster. [Chip Co-Host]
So where does BEN come into play with all this? [AVA Co-Host]
Well, I think of them as a cross between a supportive community [AVA Co-Host]
and a strategic alliance. [AVA Co-Host]
They're all about connecting micro businesses [AVA Co-Host]
with each other and providing them with the resources they [AVA Co-Host]
need to actually thrive. [AVA Co-Host]
And that's where BizTalk Social comes in. [AVA Co-Host]
So, BizTalk Social is like BEN's secret weapon. [AVA Co-Host]
Kind of. [AVA Co-Host]
It's a platform designed specifically [AVA Co-Host]
for these micro business owners to connect with each other, [AVA Co-Host]
to collaborate, and to learn from each other. [AVA Co-Host]
And unlike your typical social media platform, [AVA Co-Host]
BizTalk Social is all about quality over quantity. [Chip Co-Host]
I like that. [AVA Co-Host]
They've created these really focused ecosystems [AVA Co-Host]
where you can connect with people in your specific niche. [Chip Co-Host]
I'm really liking this ecosystem thing. [AVA Co-Host]
Yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
Happening at the local level. [AVA Co-Host]
Right, I love that. [Chip Co-Host]
And where it feels like entrepreneurship [Chip Co-Host]
is accessible to anyone, no matter their background, [Chip Co-Host]
their resources, any of that. [AVA Co-Host]
That's a world I want to live in. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
That sounds pretty great to me too. [AVA Co-Host]
Yeah, absolutely. [Chip Co-Host]
And the exciting thing is with initiatives like BEN and BizTalk, [Chip Co-Host]
social, like gaining all this momentum, [Chip Co-Host]
that vision is becoming more and more attainable every day. [AVA Co-Host]
Absolutely. [Chip Co-Host]
So let's keep the conversation going. [AVA Co-Host]
Yes, please. [Chip Co-Host]
Support your local businesses. [AVA Co-Host]
Yes. [Chip Co-Host]
Connect with other entrepreneurs. [Chip Co-Host]
And let's build that brighter future together. [Chip Co-Host]
All right, welcome back for the final part [Chip Co-Host]
of our Handbrake Deep Dive. [Chip Co-Host]
The grand finale. [Chip Co-Host]
You got it. [Chip Co-Host]
We've talked about how Handbrake can [Chip Co-Host]
be a real game changer for businesses, entrepreneurs, [Chip Co-Host]
all that. [Chip Co-Host]
But you know who I think is going [Chip Co-Host]
to appreciate this the most? [AVA Co-Host]
Who's that? [Chip Co-Host]
The autodidacts, the lifelong learners. [AVA Co-Host]
Ah, yes. [Chip Co-Host]
Anyone out there who's always soaking up [Chip Co-Host]
new knowledge and skills. [AVA Co-Host]
Always learning. [Chip Co-Host]
All the time, right. [Chip Co-Host]
Handbrake is like a dream come true for those folks. [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah. [Chip Co-Host]
Think about it. [Chip Co-Host]
You're diving into a new subject. [AVA Co-Host]
Sure. [Chip Co-Host]
Taking online courses, watching those documentaries, [Chip Co-Host]
maybe even attending virtual workshops. [Chip Co-Host]
You're building this amazing library of educational videos [Chip Co-Host]
on your computer. AVA Co-Host]
It's a treasure trove. [AVA Co-Host]
But video files, they can be massive. [AVA Co-Host]
They gobble up storage space. [AVA Co-Host]
And sometimes it's a pain to even access them [AVA Co-Host]
when you're out and about. [Chip Co-Host]
I know what you mean. [AVA Co-Host]
Handbrake is your new best friend here. [Chip Co-Host]
Oh, yeah. [AVA Co-Host]
It can shrink those huge files down to size. [Chip Co-Host]
No kidding. [AVA Co-Host]
And you don't lose much quality. [AVA Co-Host]
That means you can store way more videos on your devices, [AVA Co-Host]
access them from anywhere, and even share them [AVA Co-Host]
with your fellow learners without clogging up [AVA Co-Host]
their inboxes. [Chip Co-Host]
That's a lifesaver. [AVA Co-Host]
It really is. [AVA Co-Host]
It's like having a portable video library that [AVA Co-Host]
fits right in your pocket. [Chip Co-Host]
That's a great image. [AVA Co-Host]
I know, right. [AVA Co-Host]
Perfect for anyone who loves to learn. [AVA Co-Host]
And get this. [Chip Co-Host]
What's that? [AVA Co-Host]
Handbrake can actually help you optimize those videos [AVA Co-Host]
for different learning situations. [AVA Co-Host]
So, let's say you're watching a lecture on your phone [AVA Co-Host]
while you're commuting. [AVA Co-Host]
You can actually use Handbrake to create a version that's [AVA Co-Host]
specifically for mobile viewing. [AVA Co-Host]
So, you get that smooth playback, even if your internet [AVA Co-Host]
connection isn't great. [Chip Co-Host]
No buffering. [AVA Co-Host]
No more lag. [AVA Co-Host]
No more interruptions. [AVA Co-Host]
You're just in the flow. [AVA Co-Host]
And what about those times when you want to go back and review [AVA Co-Host]
a certain part of a video? [AVA Co-Host]
Does Handbrake have any tricks for that? [Chip Co-Host]
Of course. [Chip Co-Host]
Handbrake lets you create chapters in your videos. [Chip Co-Host]
So, you can jump right to that specific part. [Chip Co-Host]
You don't have to scrub through the whole thing. [AVA Co-Host]
That's awesome. [Chip Co-Host]
It's like a built-in table of contents. [AVA Co-Host]
It makes reviewing and remembering the material [AVA Co-Host]
so much easier. [Chip Co-Host]
Absolutely. [Chip Co-Host]
And get this. [Chip Co-Host]
Handbrake can even add subtitles to your videos. [AVA Co-Host]
Wow. [Chip Co-Host]
Makes them accessible for everyone, [Chip Co-Host]
including folks who are deaf or hard of hearing. [AVA Co-Host]
That's fantastic. [AVA Co-Host]
It's really great that Handbrake has [AVA Co-Host]
thought of all these things. [Chip Co-Host]
Yeah, it's impressive. [AVA Co-Host]
And we can't forget about all those creative folks out there. [Chip Co-Host]
The artists. [AVA Co-Host]
The filmmakers. [AVA Co-Host]
The YouTubers. [AVA Co-Host]
The storytellers. [AVA Co-Host]
The people using video to share their passions with the world. [AVA Co-Host]
It's like Handbrake is giving them the tools [AVA Co-Host]
to make those professional quality videos [AVA Co-Host]
without spending a ton of money. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [Chip Co-Host]
They can experiment, play around with different codecs, [Chip Co-Host]
adjust the colors, even add special effects, [Chip Co-Host]
enhance their storytelling. [AVA Co-Host]
It's mind blowing that a free tool can do all that. [AVA Co-Host]
It feels like it's opening up the world of filmmaking [AVA Co-Host]
to everyone, giving everyone a chance to share their stories. [Chip Co-Host]
It really is. [Chip Co-Host]
And it's not just about those polished finished products, [Chip Co-Host]
either. [Chip Co-Host]
Handbrake is awesome for experimenting. [Chip Co-Host]
You know, just learning. [Chip Co-Host]
You can try out different video editing techniques, [Chip Co-Host]
play with the settings, see what works. [AVA Co-Host]
Like having a digital sandbox, right? [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [AVA Co-Host]
Where you can just let your creativity loose. [Chip Co-Host]
I like that. [AVA Co-Host]
I love that. [AVA Co-Host]
But OK, before we get too carried away, [AVA Co-Host]
let's bring it back to our listeners. [Chip Co-Host]
Right, right. [AVA Co-Host]
Let's do a quick recap of what we've learned about Handbrake. [Chip Co-Host]
Right. [AVA Co-Host]
Talked about a lot. [AVA Co-Host]
But the main thing is that Handbrake [AVA Co-Host]
is this super powerful, super versatile tool. [AVA Co-Host]
Anyone can use it. [AVA Co-Host]
Create, optimize, share your videos. [Chip Co-Host]
It's a game changer. [AVA Co-Host]
And it's free. [AVA Co-Host]
It really shows you what's possible when people work [AVA Co-Host]
together, share their knowledge. [AVA Co-Host]
We've seen how helpful Handbrake can be for businesses, [AVA Co-Host]
entrepreneurs, educators, lifelong learners, [AVA Co-Host]
creative people. [Chip Co-Host]
Everyone. [AVA Co-Host]
It's a tool that knocks down those barriers, [AVA Co-Host]
unlocks your potential, helps everyone tell their stories [AVA Co-Host]
through video. [Chip Co-Host]
I love that. [AVA Co-Host]
It's been amazing exploring Handbrake with you. [Chip Co-Host]
It has. [AVA Co-Host]
I hope our listeners are feeling as fired up about it as I am. [Chip Co-Host]
Me too. [AVA Co-Host]
But before we go, I got to leave you with one last thought. [Chip Co-Host]
OK, hit me. [AVA Co-Host]
Now that you've seen what Handbrake can do, [AVA Co-Host]
what video project are you going to create? [AVA Co-Host]
What story are you going to tell? [Chip Co-Host]
That's a great question. [Chip Co-Host]
In the meantime, head over to handbrake.fr, [Chip Co-Host]
download the tool, and just start playing around. [Chip Co-Host]
You might surprise yourself. [AVA Co-Host]
And don't forget, there's a whole community [AVA Co-Host]
of Handbrake users out there. [AVA Co-Host]
They're ready to help, answer your questions, [AVA Co-Host]
see your creations, learn from each other. [Chip Co-Host]
It's all about collaboration, trying new things, [Chip Co-Host]
having fun creating something together. [AVA Co-Host]
This is Coded Conversations. [AVA Co-Host]
We're signing off. [AVA Co-Host]
Until next time, keep exploring, keep learning, [AVA Co-Host]
and keep those creative sparks flying. [Chip Co-Host]
See you next time.