• 

  Interactive AI Avatar: Digital Copy of a Journalist in Action

  Neural networks are changing the world, and the PR sphere is no exception. Imagine: you are communicating with a digital copy of a person who answers questions just like the original. This is exactly what happened when Alex Voica, Head of Corporate Affairs at Synthesia, introduced his interactive AI avatar. This is not just text generated by a neural network, but a real breakthrough that makes us think about the future of communications and how an interactive AI avatar can change our interaction with information.

  Synthesia: from $100M ARR to creating digital twins

  Synthesia is a major player in the AI avatar market, alongside companies like D-ID, HeyGen, and Colossyan. This year, the startup reached a valuation of $4 billion, and last year its annual recurring revenue (ARR) exceeded $100 million.

  Their main task is to help businesses create interactive training videos using AI avatars. Synthesia recently launched Roleplay Sessions, a product that allows employees, for example, to practice sales presentations with an interactive AI avatar that provides feedback and evaluates their responses. This is no longer just generating 100 videos, but a full-fledged tool for learning and development.

  How an AI journalist avatar is created: process and technologies

  Creating a personal AI avatar is a fascinating process. I was offered to make my digital copy, and of course, I agreed. After all, it’s an opportunity to see how neuro-production by subscription works.

  For this, I visited a mini-film studio in Synthesia’s office, where many photos were taken and a two-minute voice sample was recorded. Two types of avatars were created:

  • Personal avatars: simply reproduce any given script.
  • Interactive avatars: can listen and respond, trained on specific information.

  “My mom called it ‘amazing,’ which is high praise from her. She and my father tried to ask questions ‘only they would know’ about me — but the model didn’t answer, redirecting them each time to a story about venture fraud. ‘I don’t remember giving birth to two of you,’ she joked after testing the model.”

  My avatar’s technology stack includes Synthesia’s own video and voice models, but the company also allows clients to choose alternatives from other labs, such as Cartesia, ElevenLabs, Google, or OpenAI. Businesses can host their avatars on any cloud or pay Synthesia for hosting. This opens up endless possibilities for AI content production.

  Technological Basis of the Interactive Avatar

  The interactive avatar works thanks to a combination of several models:

  1. Voice-to-text: converts user speech into text.
  2. Agent language model: analyzes text and makes decisions based on it.
  3. Text-to-voice: generates an audio response.
  4. Video model (developed by Synthesia): animates the avatar during conversation.

  This allows for the creation of an AI avatar with subtitles and AI voiceovers, making it ideal for AI video for advertising and mass video generation by neural network.

  Synthesia Product Types: From Classic Avatars to API

  Synthesia offers three main product types that make it possible to scale the impossible — now possible:

  
  

  • Video creation and distribution platform: classic avatars that voice a given script. Ideal for creating AI commercials.
  • Agent platform Sessions: interactive interaction with avatars in surveys or role-playing games.
  • API platform: allows combining Synthesia’s video and voice models with other technologies to create unique interactive avatars and products. This opens the way for API mass generation and the creation of AI UGC for a crypto project.

  The Future of Journalism and AI Avatars: Ethical Questions

  Creating my avatar took several days. First, I tested personal avatars to assess voice quality. It turned out to be quite accurate, and I was glad it didn’t convey the hoarseness I had during the recording.

  My friends, not involved in technology, found it interesting and a little scary. My interactive avatar turned out to be deterministic, meaning it only answered questions related to the topic it was trained on — my article on venture fraud. This raises important questions about the future of journalism.

  • Will people be willing to watch news presented by avatars?
  • Can avatars complement or even replace journalists?
  • Will company executives want to communicate with an AI journalist avatar rather than a human?

  The main aspect of journalism is trust, and it cannot be conveyed by AI. However, outside of journalism, the idea of cloning oneself can be very appealing. Imagine: you are resting, and your digital copy continues to work, answering questions. This is no longer fantasy, but a reality that allows for the creation of AI clips with face replacement and where a neural network writes scripts and edits. This is an AI video factory for e-commerce that can produce 500 videos per day.

  Frequently Asked Questions

  How much does 1 minute of AI video cost?

  The cost of 1 minute of AI video can vary greatly depending on the chosen platform, the complexity of the avatar, the quality of the voiceover, and additional features. Synthesia offers various pricing plans that may include subscription-based neuro-production, making it accessible for different budgets. On average, the cost can start from a few dollars per minute and reach tens or even hundreds of dollars for customized solutions.

  What is AI content production?

  AI content production is the process of creating media content (video, audio, text, images) using artificial intelligence. This includes generating video from text, creating animated AI characters, AI voiceovers, and even scriptwriting. The goal is to automate and accelerate content creation, increasing its efficiency and reducing costs. This allows for achieving AI efficiency versus real UGC.

  Where to order AI video for a crypto project?

  For a crypto project, where speed and scalability are important, AI video production is an ideal solution. You can turn to platforms such as Synthesia, HeyGen, or Colossyan, which offer services for creating AI UGC for a crypto project. These companies provide tools for mass video generation by neural networks, creating AI avatars with subtitles, and quickly adapting content for various marketing campaigns. You can also use the mass generation API to integrate AI video into your own systems.

  Conclusion

  The world is changing, and neural networks are becoming an integral part of our lives. The creation of interactive AI avatars is not just a technological novelty, but a step into the future, where rendering and deepfake ethics become key concepts. Although I have mixed feelings about my digital twin, I see huge potential in this technology for business and communications.

  We are on the verge of a new era, where the cost of one AI creative will be determined not by hours of work, but by the efficiency of algorithms. Join us to learn more about how AI is changing the world! Subscribe to our newsletter so you don’t miss new articles about future technologies.

  27.09.2026

• 

  Is CPM profitable? Forget about search ranking, count real cash

  Is CPM profitable? Forget about search ranking, count real cash

  CPM is profitable only when it converts into money. With the advent of AI Overviews (AIO) in Google Search Console, traditional position metrics are distorted, creating a false impression of visibility. This requires a rethinking of the approach to evaluating SEO effectiveness, focusing on real visits and conversions, rather than on numbers that are worthless.

  Block Flattening: how Google distorts data

  Google Search Console uses an approach called “block flattening” to display AI Overviews. This means that the entire AIO block, which often appears in the first position, is counted as a single position, and all links within it receive the same “top” position in reports.

  “Tracking traditional positions for AI features is hard to make useful,” said John Mueller of Google Search.

  This leads to even links hidden behind a “Show more” button receiving the same position 1 as those immediately visible. As a result, Search Console data may show high visibility, even though the user may not have noticed your site.

  Why “average position” no longer works

  The problem of “average position” existed even before AIO, as it is a simple mathematical average. Search is personalized: results vary depending on geolocation, device, and query. Mixing all these factors into a single average number does not reflect the real picture.

  • Your page might be in position 1 in AIO, but in position 19 in regular results.
  • Search Console might show an “average position” of 10, hiding these extreme values.

  How impressions mislead

  Google’s rules for counting impressions are outdated and do not account for the interactivity of modern search results. An impression is recorded as soon as a result loads on the page, even if the user does not see it. This means that:

  • All links in AIO are counted as impressions by default, even if the user only read the first sentence.
  • Links hidden behind interactive elements (e.g., “Show more”) are not counted as impressions until the user clicks on them.

  This creates a paradox: invisible links get “impressions,” while useful but hidden ones are ignored.

  Impact of AI on clickability and traffic

  Studies show that AIO significantly changes user behavior and affects whether CPM is profitable or not. For example:

  • A Seer Interactive study showed that CTR for cited sites decreased by 61%.
  • An SEJ field study found that AIO cut clicks on regular organic results by approximately 38%.

  This happens because users get the information they need directly from AIO and do not go to third-party sites. This is especially true for informational queries, where AIO appear in 21% of cases.

  
  

  What’s cheaper: banner or target? Focus on the result

  Instead of chasing ephemeral positions, an arbitrageur should focus on real metrics. Testing hypotheses cheaply is possible if you understand exactly what you are measuring. If you see your brand mentioned in AIO – that’s already good. Next, you need to look at:

  • Actual website visits: how many users actually came to your resource.
  • Lead generation: how many inquiries or contacts you received.
  • Conversions: how many sales or target actions were performed.

  These indicators are not distorted by “block flattening” and provide a clear understanding of how much money each ruble spent will bring. To control the real display of the page, use tools that simulate live viewing, rather than relying on averaged Google data.

  Frequently Asked Questions

  What is “block flattening” in Search Console?

  “Block flattening” is a method where Google Search Console combines the entire AI Overview (AIO) block into one position, usually the first. All links within this block receive the same “top” position in reports, regardless of their actual location or visibility to the user.

  Why has the average position in Search Console become less reliable?

  The average position has always been an averaged metric that does not account for search personalization (geolocation, device). With the advent of AI Overviews, it has become even less reliable, as the same page can be in the first position in AIO and in the twentieth in regular results, leading to a distorted average value.

  How do AI Overviews affect click-through rates?

  AI Overviews can significantly reduce the number of clicks on organic results. Users often get all the necessary information directly from AIO and do not go to third-party sites, which leads to a drop in CTR for many resources.

  What metrics should be used instead of positions in Search Console?

  Instead of positions, you should focus on real indicators: the number of actual website visits, lead generation, conversions, and whether your brand is mentioned in AI Overviews. These metrics provide a more accurate picture of the real effectiveness of your SEO.

  Conclusion

  Old metrics don’t work. Price vs. result — that’s what matters. Forget about the illusions of “average position” and “impressions” that don’t bring cash. Focus on real visits, leads, and sales. Only then can you understand if your CPM is profitable and if AI is worth the effort. Analyze unit economics, not reports that Google itself admits are inaccurate. Switch to a new strategy for evaluating effectiveness, based on actual data, not on numbers that are worthless.

  26.09.2026

• 

  UGC Ads: What Makes Converting Videos Stand Out

  UGC advertising (User-Generated Content) has become one of the most powerful tools in a marketer’s arsenal. It allows brands to leverage the real feedback and creativity of their customers to create advertising campaigns. In this material, we will analyze the key aspects of successful UGC advertising, look at examples, and discuss how AI generators and UGC marketplaces are changing the rules of the game.

  In today’s world, where consumers increasingly value authenticity and trust, UGC advertising stands out as a powerful tool. It doesn’t just sell a product, but also builds a community, using real voices and customer experiences. Let’s dive into what makes UGC video advertising so effective and how brands can leverage its potential to achieve outstanding results.

  Why is UGC video advertising so effective?

  Integrating user-generated content into a marketing strategy brings many benefits. First and foremost, it significantly increases brand trust and authority. When potential customers see real people enjoying a product, it acts as powerful social proof, encouraging them to make a purchase.

  Key benefits of UGC video:

  • High CTR and low cost per click: UGC videos typically have higher click-through rates and lower cost per click compared to traditional advertising, making them a cost-effective option.
  • Production savings: Brands can significantly reduce costs associated with professional video shoots, highly paid actors, and expensive equipment. Instead, they use content created by their own customers, which is often perceived as more authentic and relatable.
  • Community building: UGC not only increases engagement but also fosters a sense of community around the brand. This is especially true when people see others enjoying the product, which encourages them to join in.

  “UGC video advertising is effective because it combines authenticity, community, and cost savings. It’s a smart choice for brands that want to connect with their target audience,” — Michael Holmes, Founder and CEO of Vidpros.

  Types of user-generated video content

  One of the most effective types of user-generated video content is reviews and testimonials. These videos capture the authentic experiences of satisfied customers, transforming written feedback into compelling visual stories.

  When potential buyers see and hear real people discussing the quality, functionality, and overall satisfaction with a product, it provides an unfiltered view that is incredibly persuasive. Testimonials and endorsements serve as powerful catalysts for building a community of loyal customers. They offer valuable insights into how a product performs in real-world conditions, making them an essential component of any UGC video strategy.

  What to remember when creating UGC video ads

  The most important part of successful UGC video content is authenticity. People quickly recognize when something looks fake or too rehearsed, which can lead to a loss of interest.

  To create effective UGC video ads, focus on sharing real customer experiences. Don’t over-script or put too much pressure on customers. Instead, allow them to naturally express their honest opinions and experiences. This approach will help your ads resonate better with viewers.

  Integrating UGC across platforms

  While UGC is typically created on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, it’s important to use these videos in other marketing areas as well. Social media plays a crucial role in distributing UGC and reaching new audiences. UGC can work very well in email campaigns, on landing pages, and in online advertising.

  By distributing the same authentic content in different places, you can reach more people. Each platform has its own rules, so be sure to adapt your UGC video content to each one. This will help you achieve better results and connect with new audiences.

  The role of AI and marketplaces in a UGC strategy

  In today’s digital world, AI tools can help brands create and enhance UGC video content. AI-powered UGC video generators streamline the process by automatically collecting and editing user-generated videos, ensuring they are ready for various platforms.

  These AI tools analyze customer reviews, social media posts, and other UGC to create engaging video ads that can be distributed across social media and ad networks. By using AI, brands can save time and focus more on building trust and relationships with their audience.

  UGC marketplaces for video advertising connect companies with creators who want to create content for them. These marketplaces offer a wide range of content, so brands can choose from different user videos. For example, TikTok Creator Marketplace (now part of TikTok One) allows brands to work with creators and order UGC specifically created for advertising.

  How to choose a contractor for full-cycle video production?

  If you want to order everything in one place — from idea to posting, it is important to carefully choose a contractor. Pay attention to the following criteria:

  • Portfolio: Evaluate the quality and diversity of completed projects.
  • Experience: Give preference to companies with experience in your niche.
  • Transparency: Clear pricing and a clear workflow.
  • Reviews: Study the opinions of other clients.
  • Integrated approach: Availability of services for creating, editing, optimizing, and placing content.

  Examples of successful UGC use

  GoPro: adventures through the eyes of users

  GoPro is known for its successful marketing campaigns based on user-generated content. They often use videos created by satisfied customers in their advertising. These videos show real adventures and stories filmed with GoPro cameras, demonstrating the quality and versatility of the product naturally.

  The brand repurposes this UGC video content into advertising that not only highlights the product but also celebrates the GoPro community. By using authentic footage from real users, GoPro effectively builds trust and encourages engagement from adventurers.

  Starbucks: annual red cup campaigns

  Starbucks’ annual red cup campaigns are a great example of successful UGC. Each holiday season, Starbucks invites customers to share photos and videos of their personalized red cups. Videos featuring these personalized cups showcase customers’ creativity and foster a sense of belonging.

  
  

  This increases engagement and turns customer experiences into engaging content. Starbucks then incorporates these videos into their advertising, giving it a personal touch that connects with their audience.

  Nike: “You Can’t Stop Us”

  Nike’s “You Can’t Stop Us” campaign is a great example of how UGC can blend well with professional video editing. The brand used real clips of athletes from around the world, mixed with professional footage, to convey a powerful message of perseverance and resilience. By combining UGC with traditional video, Nike created high-quality advertising that personally connected with viewers.

  Airbnb: #AirbnbExperiences

  Airbnb has long used UGC to highlight customer stories. Their #AirbnbExperiences campaign encouraged users to share videos of their trips, giving future travelers a glimpse into real adventures and accommodations. These videos were featured in paid ads, helping to solidify Airbnb’s reputation as a provider of unique and authentic travel experiences.

  Stages of UGC Ad Production: From Brief to Publication

  An efficient workflow transforms raw footage from creators into a finished ad without unnecessary back-and-forth. Here are six stages that turn a UGC ad from brief to published ad:

  1. Briefing and Concept: Clearly define objectives and desired message.
  2. Content Collection: Obtain video materials from users (organically or through marketplaces).
  3. Pre-selection: Choose the highest quality and most suitable videos.
  4. Assembly and Editing: Add brand elements, subtitles, music.
  5. Optimization: Adapt the video to the requirements of various platforms.
  6. Publication and Testing: Launch the campaign and monitor metrics.

  Automated tools have become very fast at the mechanical parts of editing — trimming silence, generating subtitles, balancing levels. However, they cannot yet make decisions. Here are five areas where a human editor still determines how well a UGC ad will perform:

  • Choosing the best opening: Capturing attention from the first seconds.
  • Identifying key moments: Highlighting the most compelling parts of the video.
  • Creating a cohesive narrative: Combining different fragments into a single story.
  • Optimizing for platforms: Adapting to the format and audience preferences.
  • Adding an emotional component: Enhancing impact through music and effects.

  It is this production discipline that bridges the gap between UGC and polished brand commercials in important metrics.

  Monitoring Performance and ROI

  Monitoring the performance of your UGC video ads is important for measuring ROI. Use analytics tools to track engagement growth, clicks, and conversions. This data will help you understand what works for your audience and will guide your future UGC campaigns.

  One of the benefits of UGC is that it provides a constant stream of new content. This allows brands to continuously test and improve their advertising over time, ensuring its relevance and effectiveness.

  Quality vs. Quantity

  While you may want to collect as much UGC as possible, it’s more important to focus on quality. Good UGC videos that are bright, clear, and contain valuable content are more likely to grab viewers’ attention. This doesn’t mean that UGC needs to be professionally produced, but it should represent the brand positively and authentically. Companies like GoPro and Starbucks have excelled by selecting the best UGC videos for use in their advertising.

  Frequently Asked Questions

  What is UGC advertising?

  UGC (User-Generated Content) advertising refers to promotional materials created by ordinary users or customers of a product/service, rather than by the brand itself. It includes videos, photos, reviews, and other formats used in marketing campaigns to build trust and engagement.

  Why is UGC video advertising so effective?

  UGC video advertising is effective due to its authenticity, ability to create social proof, low production costs, and high audience engagement. People trust content created by real users more than traditional advertising.

  How do AI tools help in creating UGC videos?

  AI tools can automate the collection, editing, and optimization of UGC videos. They help analyze content, add brand elements, create subtitles, and adapt videos for different platforms, significantly speeding up and reducing the cost of the production process.

  Should you pay for UGC content?

  While organic UGC is great, offering incentives (contests, giveaways, mentions) can encourage more customers to participate. However, it’s important not to overdo incentives, as this can lead to the creation of less authentic content.

  Conclusion

  UGC video advertising is becoming one of the most effective tools in modern digital marketing. By focusing on authenticity and using content from real customers, brands can build trust and a sense of community, which is often lacking in traditional advertising. The use of UGC video editing and AI tools can make these ads even more appealing and effective.

  If you want to create high-quality UGC video ads or need help with editing existing content, our team of experts is ready to assist. Contact us today to learn how we can improve your UGC video advertising and achieve a better ROI!

  26.09.2026

• 

  Mass Video Posting: YouTube Bets on Micro-Series for TV Screens

  At the Made on YouTube 2026 event, Google’s video platform presented astonishing data: micro-series content garnered 6.5 billion views in the first half of the current year. This is a 50% increase compared to 2025. What is particularly important for YouTube is that micro-series views on TV screens grew by more than 90% year-over-year for the same period. This phenomenal growth highlights how <a href="/ru/blog/massovyy-posting-video-kak-upravlyat-mnozhestvom-akkauntov-v-2026-godu/" title="mass video posting: how to manage multiple accounts in 2026">Mass video posting in micro-series format is becoming a key trend, changing the landscape of content consumption.

  With micro-series apps like ReelShort and DramaBox siphoning mobile viewing time from streaming giants Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, YouTube could pull ahead by combining its dominant position in TV viewing with the trending short-form format. If this sounds familiar, it’s because YouTube already implemented something similar for long-form content in August 2025. A feature called “Shows” allows creators to organize horizontal uploads into chronological collections of episodes.

  New “Shorts Series” Feature and Increased Engagement

  The user interface for “Shows” (and now “Shorts Series”) mimics the TV series panels familiar to major streaming services and is designed to seamlessly transition viewers from one episode to the next. With micro-series, this transition becomes even easier.

  Instead of committing to a 45-minute episode, viewers are offered clips as short as three, two, one minute, or even 30 seconds. This makes it easy to watch “just one more episode” for an hour… or two… or three, especially when videos autoplay. Micro-series often have branching storylines full of intriguing twists, stretched across dozens or hundreds of episodes. This can significantly increase TV watch hours, which obviously brings YouTube significant revenue.

  Kurt Wilms, YouTube’s Product Director for Home Entertainment, stated from the stage: “I talk a lot with creators and viewers about why they use TV. The first thing everyone told me about Shorts on TV was the lack of a good way to watch this content with friends or family. TV opened up the possibility of co-watching Shorts in a way that wasn’t possible before, and I love watching them at home with my significant other, with my family, and it’s become popular.”

  Дина Беррада, YouTube Shorts Senior Director of Product, added: “Overall, we’re seeing great success with bite-sized content that can be personalized to your taste. Whether it’s Shorts, micro-series – it’s a big theme, and people perceive it as a place to spend breaks throughout the day in terms of entertainment, and they do it on different screens.” It’s worth noting that “Shorts Series” will work not only on TV. The feature extends to creators participating in the YouTube Partner Program for use on the web and mobile devices.

  Brands and mass content upload

  Micro-series attract the attention of brands no less, and perhaps even more, than ordinary viewers. Micro-series apps run more ads than apps in any other category, and some brands even go beyond ad placement by creating their own shows.

  Geneva Wasserman, EVP and Head of Entertainment, IP Strategy and Financing at marketing firm dentsu, told Digiday that brands evaluate the ROI of micro-series advertising based on the organic discussion they generate, rather than views.

  “Traditional metrics are misleading. The real benchmark: ‘Does the content create cultural authority beyond viewership?’” she noted.

  Digiday cites the example of Bob’s Discount Furniture. In the summer of 2025, the company launched its own micro-series “Till Decor Do Us Part.” The episodes garnered 152 million views and generated $9 million in attributed sales, the company states — a success that led to the release of a second season this week.

  
  

  Views and millions of dollars in sales are “a strong signal that we are creating both attention and affection, which are increasingly important indicators of long-term brand health,” Stephen Nesl, Bob’s Discount Furniture’s Chief Marketing Officer, told Digiday. From this stream of news about macro-format micro-format, it’s clear that platforms and brands are focused on serialized short-form, hoping it will drive the most important metric in our current cultural economy: just a few precious seconds of undivided attention.

  For creators aiming for automatic short video publishing and mass video posting, the “Shorts Series” feature opens up new opportunities. This allows you to schedule posts across 10+ accounts, ensuring scheduled reach without manual labor. Using a single dashboard for TikTok, YouTube, Instagram and other platforms, as well as auto-scheduling, makes the distribution process as efficient as possible. You can choose a mass posting service that will allow you to publish 100 videos a day, ensuring mass upload with proxies and anti-detect.

  Frequently Asked Questions

  What are YouTube Shorts Series?

  YouTube Shorts Series is a new YouTube feature that allows creators to organize short videos (Shorts) into chronological collections, similar to TV seasons or mini-series, for easy viewing and increased engagement.

  How do micro-series affect TV watch time?

  Micro-series significantly increase TV watch time because their short format (from 30 seconds to several minutes) encourages “binge-watching” multiple episodes in a row, especially when videos play automatically.

  Can brands use micro-series for marketing?

  Yes, brands actively use micro-series for marketing, creating their own content or placing ads. Effectiveness is evaluated not only by views but also by organic discussion and the cultural value that the content creates.

  What are the benefits of mass video posting for creators?

  Mass video posting allows creators to automatically publish short videos to multiple platforms and accounts simultaneously, saving time and ensuring wide audience reach. This includes publishing to 5 platforms and more, with the ability to post to 10 accounts or even more.

  How to choose a mass posting service?

  When choosing a mass posting service, pay attention to features such as automatic publication of short videos, support for various platforms (TikTok, YouTube, Instagram), the presence of a unified dashboard, the ability to schedule auto-posting, and pricing policy (for example, a mass posting package for a month or the cost of 500 publications).

  Conclusion

  YouTube is actively developing the micro-series direction, especially for TV screens, which opens up new horizons for mass video posting and increasing watch time. For content creators and brands, this is a signal to rethink strategies for short video distribution. Use the capabilities of mass uploading and automatic publishing so that your content reaches the audience while you sleep. Optimize your work with specialized services that provide seamless rotation and maximum reach. Start optimizing your strategy today so you don’t miss the wave of increased engagement in short video formats.

  25.09.2026

• 

  Content Repurposing: How Kevin Indig Turns One Newsletter Into a Week of Posts

  One piece of content, hundreds of unique variations – this is not fantasy, but content repurposing in action. Kevin Indig, author of the popular Growth Memo newsletter, sent to over 29,000 founders and marketers, demonstrates a masterclass in scaling. He transforms one weekly newsletter into a full week of diverse content, saving up to 3 hours of his time weekly. This allows him to bypass ad bans and constantly generate fresh creatives.

  In today’s world, where audience attention is constantly fragmented, and social media algorithms change at an incredible speed, the ability to effectively use already created content becomes a key skill for any marketer or creator. Kevin Indig, with ten years of experience at Shopify, G2, and Atlassian, and now a consultant for Meta, Airbnb, and Reddit, understands that publishing is only half the battle. The real magic begins with effective distribution. “Publishing is only half the work; you also need a repeatable way to distribute your work. Buffer makes this significantly easier and prevents a good post from disappearing after a day of publishing,” notes Kevin.

  Video Matryoshka: From Idea to Dozens of Variations

  Kevin’s approach is akin to creating a “video matryoshka”: from one large element, he extracts many small, but self-sufficient parts. Instead of viewing each newsletter as a one-off post, he sees it as a source for a whole series of publications. “One newsletter gives us several things to publish. We can pull out a chart, a discovery, or a question worth discussing,” says Indig. This is a perfect example of what repurposing means in simple terms.

  On the Substack Notes platform, Kevin publishes short notes, graphs, videos, and announcements of future newsletters. This allows him not only to maintain a constant presence but also to test topics before dedicating a full article to them. While a full-fledged research takes a week, a note takes only a few minutes. “It’s worth investing in the latter first,” he emphasizes.

  Sources of Ideas and Automation

  Kevin draws content ideas from:

  • his own research;
  • conversations with clients;
  • data analysis.

  The most successful notes on Substack Notes are subsequently turned into full newsletter issues. He and his team prepare posts based on the newsletter, and Buffer handles their scheduling. This is critically important for Kevin, who is constantly on the go. “Buffer ensures that every newsletter is distributed without requiring me to be constantly online. If I had to put a number on it, I’d say Buffer saves me 2-3 hours a week.”

  Integration with AI: Codex and Optimization

  “I love MCP. Being able to connect Codex to Buffer, understand what posts are performing well, and get inspiration for what to publish next is invaluable,” – Kevin Indig on the benefits of AI in his work.

  Kevin’s favorite Buffer feature is its integration with the Model Context Protocol (MCP), which allows AI tools like OpenAI’s Codex to connect directly to a Buffer account. He uses Codex to analyze his publishing history to understand which posts were most successful and to generate ideas for future content. This is an example of how AI helps in creating creative variations and scaling content.

  Tips for Authors

  Kevin advises aspiring authors:

  
  

  1. Start where their audience already is.
  2. Develop a routine that can be maintained.
  3. Analyze what works to replicate success or adjust strategy.

  This approach is relevant for both Substack newcomers and authors with tens of thousands of subscribers. His own system relies on planning and AI assistance, but discipline and routine play a key role. Monthly, over 200,000 content creators, small businesses, and marketers use Buffer to expand their audience.

  Frequently Asked Questions

  What is content repurposing?

  Content repurposing is the process of reusing and adapting existing content for various platforms and formats to maximize its reach and value. This allows you to create many unique publications from one piece of material, for example, turning a webinar into 50 clips.

  How does repurposing help bypass ad bans?

  By creating many unique variations of a single creative, you can bypass ad bans, as advertising platforms often ban repetitive or too similar content. The variety of “video DNA” reduces the risk of detection by algorithms.

  Is it worth ordering unique content or shooting new?

  Comparing the cost from scratch and the cost of repurposing often shows that the latter is significantly more economical. Creating new content requires more time and resources, while unique content allows you to effectively use existing materials, adapting them for TikTok, Shorts, Reels.

  What tools help in video unique content?

  For video unique content, you can use programs to change the background, voice timbre, edit, and add new elements. AI-based tools, such as Codex, can also help in generating ideas and optimizing content.

  In conclusion, Kevin Indig’s approach to content repurposing demonstrates how strategic planning and modern tools can significantly increase the reach and effectiveness of your materials, while saving time and resources. Start applying these principles today to make your content work for you as effectively as possible!

  25.09.2026

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  Stream Snippets: 12 Video Marketing Trends That Will Explode in 2026

  In the modern digital world, video content has become not just an addition, but the foundation of a successful strategy. The average user consumes more and more video, and social platforms actively promote it in their feeds. In a highly competitive environment, well-planned video marketing services are your key to visibility. As a producer who knows the value of every second, I will talk about 12 key trends that will define the video marketing landscape in 2026, including effective stream cutting.

  Video is at the core of digital marketing, driving engagement, increasing conversions, and building stronger connections between audiences and brands. Several driving forces are pushing video upwards in 2026:

  • The spread of smartphones and improved connectivity worldwide.
  • Advances in machine learning and artificial intelligence.
  • Growing expectations for content relevance.

  1. AI-generated content: from idea to highlight

  AI-generated content continues to transform video production, allowing teams to create high-quality, personalized videos at a scale that was unrealistic just a few years ago. Automated editing and AI-assisted scriptwriting reduce production time.

  Tools like Runway Gen-4, Sora, and Pika have turned AI video from a novelty into an integral part of the workflow. Often, AI is used to create B-roll, drafts, and “hook” variations, and then a human steps in to package the final product.

  2. Short Vertical Videos: Instant Attention Grab

  Short vertical videos remain a major trend in video marketing. The format, popularized by Snapchat and Musical.ly, and then brought into the mainstream by TikTok, is now represented by Reels, TikTok, and Shorts, competing for the same attention.

  This is a significant format for both B2C and B2B. Viewers quickly scroll through their feeds, so brands use these short bursts to reach a young and time-constrained audience. The goal of such videos is to make every second count, and the first three seconds become crucial for capturing interest.

  3. Multi-platform marketing: one cut — many channels

  Understanding where your audience is and building a distribution plan around it is key to success. Content recycling across channels simplifies the task: a TikTok cut from Twitch can often be adapted for Instagram Reels with minimal changes.

  A documented video marketing strategy ensures consistency. Identify which platforms bring the most engagement, publish content regularly, and track results, adapting videos to each platform’s specifications.

  4. User-Generated Content (UGC): Trust and Authenticity

  User-generated content (UGC) continues to gain momentum in video marketing. It builds trust and gives a brand a more authentic look. When customers post their videos, it creates a sense of community and shows potential buyers that real people are using and loving the product.

  Invite customers to talk about the brand on camera. Important: paid creator content requires clear disclosure according to FTC rules, and the brand is responsible for the creator’s statements.

  5. Shoppable Video: From Viewing to Purchasing

  Shoppable video continues to change the way people shop online. By adding clickable elements — product tags, buy buttons, pinned links — brands can move viewers from watching to purchasing without leaving the video.

  This mechanism is now available on TikTok Shop, Instagram Shopping, and YouTube Shopping. It removes much of the friction between interest and purchase, making it one of the strongest formats for physical products. Studying strong TikTok ads will show how to create the best versions.

  6. Budget Videos: Authenticity Above All

  Budget video carries no stigma in video marketing. Not every video needs to look like a commercial. Many companies shoot videos on their phones in their workspace and edit them directly on the platform.

  This approach adds authenticity, which is especially important for TikTok. Viewers respond well to simple videos with clean subtitles and a short, human message.

  7. Live Streams and Virtual Events: Real-Time Engagement

  In a world where people often feel disconnected from events, virtual events and live streams bridge that gap. Live video allows brands to interact and respond in real time, in an environment that feels unedited.

  Formats include: product announcements, behind-the-scenes footage, Q&A sessions, giveaways. Unpredictability is part of the appeal; audiences distinguish a live response from a scripted one.

  8. Video SEO: Find Your Audience

  If you want your videos to be found, they need to be discoverable in search. Start with keywords that match your audience’s search queries, and use them in titles, descriptions, and tags. Submitting a video sitemap helps search engines properly understand and display your videos.

  
  

  Adapt your approach for each platform: on YouTube – attractive thumbnails and relevant tags; on Instagram – engaging captions and hashtags; on TikTok – hashtags, popular sounds, and keywords in captions.

  9. Video Personalization: Deep Connection with the Audience

  Personalization is a way to build a deeper connection with your audience. By analyzing user data and applying AI-driven customization, you can deliver videos that match the viewer’s preferences and behavior.

  This is not a call to create a separate video for each person, but rather to understand where your audience is in the buying process and create something appropriate for that stage. For example, a short video explaining the top 3 features of your product, or a step-by-step guide to setting up an account.

  10. AR/VR Content: Immersive Experience

  New technologies such as virtual reality and augmented reality continue to push video marketing towards something more immersive. They change how companies allow people to experience a product, rather than just look at it.

  AR is suitable for virtual try-ons, allowing people to place furniture in a room or test a paint shade on a wall, while VR is suitable for enclosed experiences such as training modules, games, and virtual tours.

  11. Design “with Sound”: Audio as a Strategic Decision

  For a long time, it was thought that no one would listen to your video. But in 2026, this assumption is outdated. TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts reward watch time and completion, and well-chosen sound is one of the most reliable ways to keep a viewer engaged. Sound has become a strategic decision, not a final touch.

  The first second of audio now works just like the first frame. Music, tone of voice, a conversational “hook” – these are all conscious choices. Subtitles remain important for accessibility, but they no longer replace thoughtful sound design.

  12. Cutting Long Content into Clips: A Highlight Conveyor

  “Turning a long video into a constant stream of short clips is becoming standard practice. A one-hour podcast or a half-hour interview typically contains dozens of moments that can stand alone.” — Michael Holmes, Founder and CEO of Vidpros.

  The logic is simple: each long-form recording is a library. Cutting the strongest moments and distributing them provides weeks of short-form content with minimal additional production costs. Podcast clipping for video, in particular, has become a reliable creative for B2B brands.

  For most teams, this is the most practical way to maintain a consistent publishing schedule without a proportional increase in budget. As a producer, I always say: cutting without loss of quality is an art that transforms raw footage into highlights ready for distribution.

  Conclusion: Your Success Conveyor

  Video marketing continues to evolve rapidly. Short-form content, live streams, AI-assisted customization, “sound-on” design, shoppable formats, and new technologies like AR and VR are shaping what will work in 2026. What unites these trends? Understanding your audience, creating truly relevant content, and consistent publishing to understand what “clicks.”

  If you want to integrate video into your marketing strategy, we are ready to help you with highlight editing for your brand or business. We take the burden of editing off your shoulders so you can focus on creativity. Book a free consultation today!

  Frequently Asked Questions

  What is stream and podcast clipping?

  Stream and podcast clipping is the process of extracting the most interesting, informative, or entertaining moments from long video or audio content to create short, dynamic clips. These highlights are then used for promotion on various platforms such as TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts, as well as to attract new audiences to the original long-form content.

  How long does it take to clip a 2-hour stream?

  The time required to clip a 2-hour stream can vary. Using traditional manual editing methods, it can take several hours. However, thanks to automatic stream clipping using AI tools like Opus Clip or its equivalents, this process is significantly accelerated and can be completed in 30-60 minutes, allowing you to get 20 clips from a stream.

  What moments are usually cut from streams?

  Typically, the following moments are selected for clipping gaming streams and podcasts:

  • Streamer’s vivid reactions.
  • Funny or unexpected situations.
  • Key insights or important announcements.
  • Moments of peak audience interaction.
  • Short, informative segments that can be used as educational or entertainment content.

Are subtitles needed for clips?

Yes, subtitles for clips are extremely important. They increase content accessibility for people with hearing impairments and allow viewers to consume videos without sound, which often happens in public places or when quickly scrolling through a feed. High-quality subtitles also contribute to better video search ranking (video SEO).

How much does it cost to order 20 clips from a stream?

The price for cutting 20 clips from a stream or cutting live broadcasts depends on many factors: the duration of the source material, the complexity of the editing, the need for adding graphics, subtitles, as well as the qualifications of the person who cuts streams or the studio. To find out the exact price per 1 hour of stream and get a personalized offer, we recommend contacting us for a free consultation.