Here are the products that Steve uses to create content regularly.  These are his recommended products for livestreaming and creating video podcasts.

I am an Amazon associate, and I earn a small commission on purchases.
​

• Camera - Sony ZV!: https://amzn.to/4q5Bmym
  
  
• Microphone - Shure SM7db: https://amzn.to/46Q0bWa
  
  
• Microphone - Samson Q2U: https://amzn.to/4nqV8m5
  
  
• Key Light - Neewer RGB60: https://amzn.to/4pOTQTl
  
  
• Key Light Stand - https://amzn.to/42kWVRh
  
  
• Neewer Softbox - https://amzn.to/46LfL5k
  
  
• Fill Light, Back Light - https://amzn.to/4mNTmtX
  
  
• Rodecaster Pro 2 - https://amzn.to/46yddsv

​I just dropped a new tutorial: How To Layer Text Behind You In Photos and Videos Using Canva. In it, I show exactly how to make text appear behind you—whether in a photo or video—using Canva Pro.

​Try this trick in your next video or post, and let me know how it turns out!

Looking to take your Mac webcam setup from "good" to great fast? In just five minutes, you can dramatically upgrade your video quality and production value using the NEEWER SP08 Continuity Camera Mount. This quick, practical guide walks you through the process with ease, whether you're podcasting, recording, or streaming live.

​1. Why It Matters for Cre­atorsAs a content pro, your visuals are your brand. A wobbly phone camera or awkward angle can undermine your message. The SP08 gives you:

• Stability & Precision: A sturdy mount that lets you dial in the perfect angle.
• Seamless Integration: Designed with Mac workflows and Apple’s Continuity Camera in mind.
• Quick Setup: No fumbling... just snap, slide, and shoot.

2. What the SP08 Offers

Key Features at a Glance:

• Magnetic attachment compatible with MagSafe-compatible iPhones and other smartphones—with included magnetic ring for non-MagSafe devices. 
• Flexible positioning, allowing angle adjustments from 0° to 90° and backwards/forwards sliding within about 42 mm. 
• Tri-fold design, elevating your phone by 185 mm for better framing, and an Arca-type base for easy tripod or slider switching. 
• Lightweight yet durable, made of anodized aluminum alloy (157 g), and foldable to a compact 105 × 60 × 26 mm form, perfect for content creators on the move. 

3. Five-Minute Setup Walkthrough

1. Unfold & Position
   Pull open the SP08 to your preferred height and angle. It instantly transforms into a desk mount. 
2. Attach Your Device
   Use a magnetic attachment for MagSafe iPhones, or the included ring for other phones like Android models. Securely position your camera. 
3. Activate Mac Continuity Camera
   Place your device near your Mac and open any video app like FaceTime, QuickTime, or your streaming software. The phone should be recognized automatically.
4. Refine Framing & Effects
   In video-capture apps, explore features like Center Stage, Portrait, Studio Light, or Desk View to refine framing, focus, and background—if supported by your hardware. 

4. Why SWIDC Creators Will Love This

• Fast & Efficient: Literally five minutes to a pro-level camera setup.
• Versatile: Works with iPhone, Android, and integrates with professional gear via Arca-base.
• Portable: Folds flat for easy storage, great for mobile studios or collaborative spaces.
• Consistent Quality: Keep visual standards high across podcasts, client calls, and live streams.

5. Pro Tips for Even Better Results

• Lighting matters. Use front lighting for a flattering shot. If possible, combine SP08 with a soft light or ring light.
• Cable management: route charging and audio lines tidily to avoid clutter or instability.
• Practice quick release: fold it flat when switching between video and desk tasks.
• Explore features: enable effects like Desk View or Portrait mode to enhance engagement and polish your visuals.

Conclusion

With the SP08 mount, you can elevate your webcam setup quickly and professionally. It's an easy win for designers, podcasters, and digital creators... especially those who value speed, aesthetics, and Mac compatibility.

As an Amazon Associate, I make a commission from qualified purchases.

👉 Learn more and get yours here (Amazon Affiliate Link):
https://amzn.to/4mRwSt6

​In my latest YouTube video, I share my honest impressions of the Sony MDR-ZX110 headphones. These lightweight wired cans deliver more than what you'd expect for their budget-friendly tag.

Key Points from the Review:

• Build & Comfort: Nylon-ear cushioned and featherweight, they’re super comfortable—even for one of your podcast marathons. No pressure on glasses frames, a win for long-term wearers.
• Sound Quality: These headphones punch above their price class with clear sound and a reasonably flat frequency response. Distortion creeps in on more complex tracks, but overall, they deliver solid value.
• Value Appeal: If you’re looking for a no-frills, low-cost pair for casual listening or travel, the MDR-ZX110 might just fit the bill.

Absolutely, for the proper use case.

• Best For: Budget-conscious users, casual listening, travel, replacements for lost earphones, or as a backup pair.
• Consider if: You're serious about audiophile-grade performance, richer sound detail, or long-term durability.

They’re a classic example of “good enough for most”.  They're not perfect, but surprisingly capable for what they cost.

As an Amazon Associate, I make a commission from qualified purchases.

Grab yours here (affiliate link):
https://amzn.to/4gasz9B

In the ever-evolving digital landscape, web design continues to transform, reflecting both technological advancements and shifts in user preferences. As we start 2025, it's worth taking a moment to explore the emerging web design trends that are likely to shape the online experience. Whether you're a seasoned designer or a curious enthusiast, understanding these trends can offer valuable insights and inspire your creative projects.

​2025 is set to witness the marriage of minimalism with bold, expressive elements. While clean and simple designs have been dominating the web for years, the upcoming trend will incorporate striking colors and dynamic typography to create a balance between simplicity and personality. Expect to see more websites utilizing large, vibrant color blocks and eye-catching fonts that immediately capture attention without overwhelming the user.

,​As technology improves, so does our ability to bring immersive experiences to the web. Three-dimensional graphics are becoming increasingly accessible, allowing designers to create more engaging and interactive web environments. In 2025, 3D visuals will become more prevalent, providing users with captivating and memorable experiences. This trend is particularly promising for e-commerce, where products can be showcased in a more lifelike manner.  At Stephen Wicks Internet Development Company, we intend on incorporating new technologies like this into our designs.

​Artificial Intelligence is already reshaping various aspects of web design, and by 2025, we can expect it to offer even more personalized user experiences. AI-driven design tools will enable websites to adapt dynamically to individual user behavior, preferences, and needs. This will not only enhance user satisfaction but also improve conversion rates by offering customized content and recommendations.

​With the growing popularity of voice assistants, integrating voice user interfaces into web design is a trend that's gaining traction. By 2025, more websites will offer voice-activated navigation and interaction, making the online experience more intuitive and accessible. This shift will cater to the increasing demand for hands-free browsing and will likely become a standard feature in web design.

​As environmental consciousness continues to rise, sustainable web design practices are becoming more significant. This involves creating websites that are not only efficient but also mindful of their energy consumption. Expect to see a focus on lightweight designs, optimized images, and eco-friendly hosting solutions in 2025. Adopting sustainable practices not only benefits the planet but also enhances site performance and user experience.

​The devil is in the details, as they say. Micro-interactions and animations are small design elements that can make a big impact on user experience. In the coming years, these subtle yet powerful features will be more prevalent, aiding in guiding users through a website, providing feedback, and adding a touch of delight without distracting from the main content.

​As we edge closer to 2025, it's clear that web design will continue to push boundaries, blending creativity with cutting-edge technology. While it's not necessary to adopt every trend, staying informed and considering how these innovations can enhance your projects is key. Whether you're crafting a personal blog or building a corporate website, embracing these trends can help you create modern, captivating, and user-friendly designs that stand out in the digital space.

So, what trend are you most excited to explore in 2025? Share your thoughts in the comments below—let's keep the conversation going and inspire each other as we design the future of the web!

The recent wildfires in Los Angeles have been devastating, with over 100,000 people evacuated and more than 1,000 structures destroyed.  These events highlight the critical importance of disaster preparedness for small businesses.

Assess Your Risk
Begin by identifying potential natural disasters that could impact your business. While wildfires are prevalent in California, other regions may face hurricanes, floods, or tornadoes. Understanding the specific risks in your area is essential for effective preparation.

Develop a Comprehensive Plan
Create a disaster preparedness plan that includes:

• Evacuation Procedures: Establish clear evacuation routes and assembly points for employees.
• Communication Strategy: Maintain an updated list of emergency contacts and determine how you will communicate with employees, customers, and suppliers during and after a disaster.
• Data Backup: Regularly back up critical business data and store it securely offsite or in the cloud to ensure accessibility post-disaster.
• Insurance Coverage: Review your insurance policies to ensure they cover potential disaster-related losses. Notably, only 5% of Italian firms have disaster coverage, underscoring a global gap in preparedness.
  
  

Implement and Train
Once your plan is in place:

• Employee Training: Conduct regular training sessions to ensure all employees are familiar with emergency procedures.
• Emergency Kits: Assemble emergency kits containing essential supplies like first aid items, flashlights, and water.
• Regular Drills: Schedule periodic drills to test the effectiveness of your plan and make necessary adjustments.

Ensure Business Continuity
To enhance resilience:

• Supply Chain Assessment: Identify alternative suppliers to mitigate disruptions if your primary suppliers are affected.
• Remote Operations: Develop the capability for employees to work remotely if your physical location becomes inaccessible.
• Financial Reserves: Maintain an emergency fund to cover expenses during periods of interrupted operations.

Stay Informed and Adapt
Disaster preparedness is an ongoing process:

• Monitor Updates: Keep abreast of weather forecasts and heed warnings from local authorities.
• Review and Revise: Regularly assess and update your disaster preparedness plan to address new risks or changes in your business operations.

​The Los Angeles wildfires serve as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of disasters. By proactively preparing, you can safeguard your business, protect your employees, and ensure a quicker recovery in the aftermath of unforeseen events.

​BlackBusinessList.Com Staff

In the ever-evolving design and content creation landscape, staying ahead of the curve means embracing tools that elevate your creative process. One such tool I've been using recently is Flux AI. This innovative platform has transformed how I create stunning, AI-driven visuals for various projects, and I wanted to share why it’s a game-changer.

What is Flux AI?
Flux AI is an advanced image creation tool that uses artificial intelligence to produce captivating and unique visuals. Its intuitive interface and powerful capabilities cater to all levels of expertise, whether you need custom artwork, design mockups, or engaging social media graphics.

Why Flux AI?
Here are a few reasons why I’ve embraced Flux AI for image creation:

1. Efficiency: Flux AI dramatically reduces the time spent on creating visuals. You input your ideas, and the AI does the heavy lifting, delivering results in minutes.
2. Versatility: The platform is flexible and adaptable, making it perfect for various applications, from social media posts to website design.
3. Creativity Unleashed: Flux AI's algorithms generate ideas and designs that might not cross your mind, helping you think outside the box.

How I Use Flux AIFor my business, I’ve utilized Flux AI to:

• Design attention-grabbing visuals for client websites.
• Enhance marketing campaigns with unique social media graphics.
• Create professional designs for SWIDC and its affiliated projects.

The results have been outstanding, and the platform’s ability to align with my vision has exceeded my expectations.

Final Thoughts
Flux AI has become an essential part of my toolkit, and I recommend it to anyone looking to enhance their creative workflow. With its AI-driven approach to image creation, Flux AI is setting new standards in the design world.

Check out Flux AI here, and let me know your thoughts in the comments. I’d love to hear about your experience if you're already using it!

Stay tuned for more tech insights and reviews on the blog. Let’s keep innovating together!

​In the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing and business operations, finding the right tools to streamline your processes and amplify your marketing efforts is crucial. As the Founder of Stephen Wicks Internet Development Company, I'm excited to share that we've become a certified HubSpot Solutions Provider.

Here's what this means for you:

Streamlined Operations:

HubSpot's suite of tools allows us to optimize your business operations. From CRM to project management, we can now offer solutions that integrate seamlessly, reducing the time you spend on administrative tasks and increasing efficiency.

Supercharged Marketing:

With HubSpot's marketing automation, we can help you craft personalized marketing campaigns that resonate with your audience. Whether it's email marketing, social media, or SEO, we'll leverage these tools to drive more traffic, leads, and conversions for your business.

​Driving Growth:

Growth is not just about increasing numbers; it's about sustainable development. HubSpot's analytics and reporting tools provide the insights needed to make data-driven decisions, ensuring your business grows in the right direction.

How We Can Help:

• Consultation: Let's discuss your current challenges and how HubSpot can solve them.
• Implementation: We'll manage the integration of HubSpot into your existing systems with minimal disruption.
• Training: Empower your team with the knowledge to use HubSpot effectively.
• Ongoing Support: We're here for you, from troubleshooting to strategy sessions.

Interested in unlocking your business's potential with HubSpot? Contact us for a personalized strategy session.

​On Tuesday, December 10, 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the SBA’s AI Small Business Summit in Atlanta, GA. The event was hosted on the innovative campus of Georgia Tech, a fitting backdrop for discussions about the future of technology and its transformative impact on small businesses.

The summit brought together some of the brightest minds in AI and business strategy. Representatives from industry leaders like OpenAI, Microsoft, Croux, and Countifi shared their expertise and insights on how artificial intelligence can be a game-changer for small businesses. It was inspiring to hear directly from these innovators about the tools and strategies that can help businesses like ours streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive growth.

Here are some of the key takeaways from the summit:

• AI is for Everyone: There was a strong emphasis on how AI isn’t just for large corporations. Small businesses can leverage AI to automate repetitive tasks, personalize marketing efforts, and gain deeper insights into customer behavior.
  
  
• Practical Applications: The speakers provided actionable examples of how AI can be used in day-to-day business activities. From using AI tools to analyze financial data to implementing AI-driven chatbots for customer support, the possibilities are vast.
  
  
• Preparing for the Future: Businesses need to start integrating AI into their strategy now to remain competitive. This involves not just adopting AI tools but also upskilling teams to work alongside these technologies effectively.

The summit was a timely reminder of the importance of staying ahead in the digital landscape. The conversations and ideas shared have ignited a spark of innovation that we can’t wait to share with you.

Our AI Strategy: Coming Soon

We are excited to announce that we’re in the process of developing an AI strategy tailored to our clients' needs. At SWIDC, our mission has always been to provide cutting-edge solutions that empower small businesses, and AI will be at the heart of our next phase of innovation. Stay tuned for updates as we prepare to unveil how we’ll incorporate AI into our services to bring even greater value to your business.

Attending the SBA’s AI Small Business Summit was more than just an educational experience; it was a call to action. As we move forward, we’re committed to leveraging AI not just as a tool but as a transformative force that aligns with our mission of driving success for small businesses.

Stay connected for more updates, and as always, thank you for trusting SWIDC to be your partner in business innovation.

​Stephen Wicks

Have you ever dreamed of sharing your voice with the world but felt overwhelmed by the perceived complexity of starting a podcast? Well, fear not, fellow content creators! In this digital age, all you need to kickstart your podcasting journey is a smartphone and a few essential tools. Yes, you read that right – no fancy studio equipment is required!

• Investing in a compact microphone and video podcasting software like Ecamm Live can elevate your production quality.
• Podcasting allows you to share your expertise, promote your products/services, and connect with a global audience.
• Consistency and strategic promotion are crucial for building a loyal following and maximizing your podcast's impact.

In today's fast-paced world, the ability to create and distribute content on-the-go is invaluable. With a smartphone in your pocket, you have a powerful recording device at your fingertips, ready to capture your thoughts, interviews, and experiences wherever inspiration strikes. Gone are the days when podcasting was reserved for those with access to professional studios – the mobile revolution has democratized the medium, making it accessible to anyone with a story to share.

​While your smartphone's built-in microphone can suffice for basic recordings, investing in a compact, high-quality microphone can significantly enhance your audio quality. A lavalier microphone, like the Shure model mentioned, is an excellent choice for podcasters on the move. These discreet, clip-on mics capture clear, crisp audio while allowing you to move freely during recordings.

Once you've secured your audio setup, the next step is streamlining your production process. This is where video podcasting software like Ecamm Live comes into play. Designed for Mac users, this powerful tool seamlessly integrates your smartphone's video and audio feeds, enabling you to create professional-grade podcasts easily.

​With Ecamm Live, you can effortlessly switch between camera angles, incorporate graphics and overlays, and even engage with your audience through live streaming or pre-recorded episodes. The software's intuitive interface and robust features make it a valuable asset for podcasters seeking to elevate their production quality without breaking the bank.

Podcasting is more than just a medium – it's a canvas for self-expression, a platform to share your unique perspectives, and a gateway to connect with like-minded individuals worldwide. Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking to promote your products or services, a thought leader eager to share your expertise, or a storyteller with tales to captivate audiences, a podcast can be your voice in the digital realm.

​By embracing the power of mobile podcasting, you can break free from the constraints of traditional broadcasting and embark on a journey of creative exploration. Share your insights, engage in meaningful conversations, and forge connections with listeners who resonate with your message, all while enjoying the flexibility and convenience of recording on-the-go.

Of course, creating compelling content is just the first step – the true key to podcasting success lies in consistency and strategic promotion. Establish a regular publishing schedule and stick to it, as your audience will come to anticipate and rely on your consistent presence. Leverage social media platforms, engage with your listeners, and collaborate with fellow creators to amplify your reach and cultivate a loyal following.

​Building an engaged audience takes time and dedication, but the rewards of connecting with like-minded individuals and leaving a lasting impact are truly invaluable.

​So, what are you waiting for? Embrace the power of mobile podcasting, and let your voice be heard. With a smartphone, a compact microphone, and the right tools, you have everything you need to embark on this exciting journey. The world is waiting to hear your story – it's time to hit record and share your unique perspective with the world.

Staff Article
​(Stephen Wicks Internet Development Company)

Learn more about  the Video Podcast Club founded by Stephen Wicks.