Show Notes 6:15 — What to do about background noise including an AI-based software solution that cancels background sounds and a pro-level solution that uses audio hardware to block unwanted sounds. * 11:31 — Why it’s important to pay attention to keeping your face centered in your webcam. * 13:00— Tailoring your backdrop so you look professional. * 14:55 — Ian suggests using software or a good camera lens to blur your background. * 17:19 — Green screen solutions for less than $10. * 18:24 — How kids are using custom backgrounds to trick teachers into thinking that they are paying attention in virtual class. * 19:49 — Picking a good router to ensure that you have adequate bandwidth to stream good quality video. * 24:18 — How to get the most out of the software you use to connect with others. * 29:29 — Maintaining a sense of presence while engaging with others via a video call. * 32:10 — Gaze correction software. * 33:19 — Darren shares his experience with video conferencing with friends and family using the Facebook Portal TV. * 34:17 — The etiquette of using the mute button. * 37:15 — The etiquette of activating your video versus broadcasting in the dark. * 40:01 — Several nice things you can do as a participant to make a video conference more pleasant and productive for everyone involved. * 45:59 — Tips for business-focused video conferences including recording calls for those who cannot attend. * 54:00 — Ian gets inspired by the Fraiser sitcom. 😁 * 55:01 — Zoom fatigue and how to recover from it. * 58:55 — March discusses his experience using virtual reality for some of his video conferences with his friends. * 1:01:30 — Darren shares some ideas for things you can do to mix up your video calls with family and friends including cooking together, virtual poker, and a virtual wine or spirit tastings. * 1:04:55* — Ian, Darren, and March invent a new video conferencing game based on Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon.

Mentions* 📦 Product: TP-Link Archer 20 wireless router * 📦 Product: Eero Pro + 2 Eero Beacons * 📰 Article: How to make a cheap green screen * 📦 Product: Netflix Together Chrome extension * 📰 Article: Table quiz (100 questions to get your started) * 📰 Website: Roll20 * 📰 Website: Tabletopia * 📰 Article: Best Use of Zoom Goes to Katie Nolan * 📦 Product: Surface Pro X gaze correction * 📦 Product: iOS 13 gaze correction