Katharina Notarianni Archives - Healing Time Books

Why Kindle Unlimited is a Game-Changer for Book Lovers

If you love reading, you’ve probably heard of Kindle Unlimited – Amazon’s subscription service that lets you read all the books, audiobooks, and magazines your heart desires, without having to buy each one individually. Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, it’s not! Let me break down why Kindle Unlimited is so awesome for bookworms.

1. An Entire Library at Your Fingertips

With Kindle Unlimited, you get access to over 4 million titles, from e-books to audiobooks to magazines. There’s literally something for everyone: romance, mystery, sci-fi, non-fiction, you name it. Whether you’ve got a specific author in mind or just want to dive into something new, you’ve got endless options. The best part? You can borrow as many books as you want – no limits. Want to read 10 books in one month? Go for it!

2. No Due Dates or Late Fees

One of the biggest perks? No pressure to return books by a certain date. You can keep books for as long as you need – no late fees, no stressing about finishing a book in time. It’s perfect for people who like to take their time with a book or those who just get too busy to read for a few days.

3. Read Everywhere, on Any Device

You don’t need to own a Kindle to use Kindle Unlimited. You can read books on your Kindle device, Fire tablet, or even on the Kindle app, which works on your smartphone or tablet. Whether you’re on the couch, on the bus, or waiting in line at the coffee shop, your next read is always with you. Super convenient, right?

4. Audiobooks and Text-to-Speech – Bonus!

If you’re an audiobook fan (or want to be), Kindle Unlimited has you covered. Many e-books come with an audiobook option, so you can listen as you go about your day. Plus, there’s a handy text-to-speech feature that lets you listen to any book, even if it doesn’t have an audiobook version. Whether you’re running errands, cooking, or relaxing, you can keep reading while doing other things. Talk about multitasking!

5. Affordable and Worth It

When you love reading, the cost of books can add up quickly. Kindle Unlimited gives you access to a huge library for one low monthly fee. No need to buy each book individually. If you’re someone who reads a lot, this can save you a ton of cash in the long run. Why pay for one book when you can have access to so many?

6. Find New Authors and Genres

Kindle Unlimited isn’t just about the big-name authors – it’s a great way to discover new voices and genres you might not have considered before. There are tons of indie authors whose work is only available on Kindle Unlimited, so you can explore fresh stories and get hooked on a whole new author or series. Plus, you can read books from genres you might not usually pick up, and you’re not locked into buying something if you don’t love it.

7. Exclusive Content and Deals

Kindle Unlimited subscribers often get access to exclusive content, early releases, and special deals. You might even score discounts on other Amazon services or free books. It’s a little bonus to make the subscription even sweeter!

HTB RECOMMENDS books for Kindle Unlimited and Gift Giving

Recommended Books for You (and for Gift-Giving!)

While Kindle Unlimited offers endless options, here are a few gems to add to your reading list – or to consider as perfect gifts for the book lovers in your life!

“Bildung’s Roamin'” by Ross Barry Schwartz
If you’re into poetry and philosophy, this one is a must-read. Ross Schwartz blends thought-provoking ideas with poetic expression, creating a work that’s both reflective and creatively inspiring. A perfect gift for someone who loves to ponder life’s big questions! (Get Bildung’s Roamin’ for free by subscribing to Kindle Unlimited)
“Steps to Net Zero” by Gary Nahrung
For those interested in making a positive impact on the planet, this environmentally conscious book is an insightful guide to achieving a sustainable, carbon-neutral lifestyle. A great pick for anyone passionate about climate action and the future of our world. (Get Steps to Net Zero for free by subscribing to Kindle Unlimited)
“Amor Y Luz” by Marilyn Marlow
This bilingual Spanish-English children’s book is a heartwarming read for kids and families. Love and Light (Amor Y Luz) is a beautiful creation story complete with the amazing artwork b creative artist Marilyn Marlow, perfect for introducing young readers to new languages and cultures. It’s not only educational but also a delightful read with lots of colorful imagery to share together! (Get Amor Y Luz for free by subscribing to Kindle Unlimited)
“Healing with Color” by TARA (channeled by Katharina Notarianni)
If you’re seeking a deeper connection with yourself and the world around you, this spirituality and meditation book is a beautiful choice. Through TARA’s guidance, as channeled by Katharina Notarianni, “Healing with Color” offers powerful insights into using color for healing, meditation, and self-discovery as you meditatively experience The Twenty-One Taras. This is a wonderful gift for anyone on a spiritual journey or looking to explore new forms of healing. (Get Healing With Color for free by subscribing to Kindle Unlimited)

Now you’ve got some fantastic book recommendations – from poetry and philosophy to spirituality and sustainability. Kindle Unlimited is the perfect way to discover all these gems and more. Happy reading!

Wrap-Up: Why Kindle Unlimited is Totally Worth It

If you’re a book lover, Kindle Unlimited is like a dream come true. With access to millions of titles, audiobooks, and exclusive content, it’s a subscription that can totally change how you read.

Whether you’re someone who flies through books every month or just loves having a ton of options available, Kindle Unlimited is an affordable, convenient, and fun way to keep your reading habit alive without breaking the bank. Ready to explore? You’ve got a whole library waiting for you!

Book Review: There Is No Wagon – When It Comes to Dieting You Can’t Fall Off by Steve Mittleman

I had the pleasure of reviewing Steve Mittleman’s debut book, There Is No Wagon, a refreshing and witty take on the often overwhelming and frustrating world of dieting and food. As a comedian, host, auctioneer, and now health advocate, Steve Mittleman brings his characteristic humor and honesty to a subject that’s far too serious for many, our very personal relationship with food.

With a lifetime of ups and downs in weight management, the author opens up about his personal struggles with yo-yo dieting, revealing how these battles led him to discover a more sustainable and peaceful way to approach food. His message is simple but profound: There is no “wagon” to fall off of when it comes to dieting, just the journey of loving yourself and your body through the process of staying healthy.

The book is a mix of candid anecdotes, hard-won lessons, and practical advice. The author doesn’t claim to be a certified expert, but he’s certainly an expert on his own experience—a perspective that resonates deeply with anyone who’s ever felt the emotional and physical toll of dieting. He speaks directly to those who struggle with emotional eating, offering hope and a path forward. His approach is centered on embracing real food, and the impact it can have on your overall well-being—physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. His honesty is refreshing, and his light-hearted touch makes even the most personal moments relatable and uplifting.

What sets this book apart from other diet books is author Steve Mittleman’s unique voice. While it’s a health book, it’s also inspirational and motivational, sprinkled with a dose of humor. The humor keeps things light, even when the subject matter can be heavy. His jokes often offer insight into how we can approach our struggles with food without self-judgment.

He encourages readers to love themselves through the process, accepting that there will be setbacks, but also celebrating every step toward a healthier, more balanced relationship with food. His hope is that readers can take what works for them from his journey and apply it to their own lives, without feeling the pressure to conform to rigid rules or standards.

There Is No Wagon is more than just a book about dieting; it’s a celebration of self-acceptance, resilience, and finding balance. Whether you’re struggling with your own food battles or simply looking for a fresh perspective on health and wellness, Steve Mittleman’s relatable, no-nonsense approach is a welcome guide. A perfect read for anyone ready to stop “falling off the wagon” and start embracing the process of loving themselves and their food choices.

Verdict: An inspiring, humorous, and refreshingly honest book that blends personal experience with practical advice—There Is No Wagon is a must-read for anyone navigating the complex world of dieting and self-acceptance.

— K.N., Publisher, San Diego

Look for Steve’s new book on Amazon.com later this month.

About HTB Publishing & Website Design

Healing Time Books is dedicated to helping authors make the most of today’s digital technologies to publish their works.

Our services include assisting authors to self-publish their works as well as offering full service Desktop Publishing, Print and eBook Publishing Services, Website Design and Development, and Marketing Services.

Attention Self-Published Authors: Source High Quality Stock Photos from Dreamstime

Hey there, fellow authors! Let’s chat about something that can seriously level up your content game—stock photos. If you’re writing a book that can benefit from visual imagery, running a blog, launching a brand, or just trying to get your message out there, visuals are key. Enter Dreamstime, your new best friend for high-quality stock images.

Here’s why you should consider using stock photos and how they can help you shine.

1. Budget-Friendly and Professional Appeal

Let’s face it, hiring a pro photographer for every single photo shoot is not exactly budget-friendly. Did you know that Dreamstime has a huge range of affordable stock photos that won’t drain your wallet? With flexible pricing options, you can snag stunning visuals without sacrificing your savings.

2. Time-Saving Treasure Trove

Dreamstime has millions of images at your fingertips. Their smart search filters make it super easy to find what you need. You can quickly narrow down results by category, color, or even mood. This means less time scrolling and more time creating beautiful content that resonates with your niche audience.

3. Top-Notch Quality

Nothing screams “amateur” like low-quality images. With Dreamstime, you’re getting access to high resolution photos that look amazing. Whether you’re after vibrant lifestyle shots or sleek business images, you can count on finding visuals that match your stories. After all, your content deserves the best.

4. Diversity Is Key

Every author has their own vibe, and you want your visuals to reflect that in your storybooks and cover art. Dreamstime has an incredible variety of styles and themes, so whether you’re into minimalism, bold colors, or something quirky, you’ll find images that resonate with your unique aesthetic. Imagery helps you connect with your audience on a deeper level.

5. Licensing Made Simple

Image rights can be super confusing, but Dreamstime keeps it straightforward. Take advantage of flexible licensing options that cater to your needs. You’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re covered legally, which is a huge plus when you’re building your brand.

6. Always Fresh Content

Staying relevant is crucial in today’s fast-paced world. The great thing about Dreamstime is that they have over 200 million images and fresh images that reflect current trends and seasonal themes are added regularly. So, you can keep your content fresh and engaging, helping you stand out in the crowded digital landscape.

7. Support Creative Talent

When you choose stock photos from Dreamstime, you’re not just getting great visuals; you’re also supporting a community of photographers and artists. This platform is full of creative talent, and by using their work, you’re showcasing unique perspectives that can set your content apart. Plus, you get to be part of that creative community!

Conclusion

In a nutshell, stock photos from Dreamstime are a game changer for young entrepreneurs looking to elevate their content without breaking the bank. With a huge library of high-quality, diverse images, you can find the perfect visuals to connect with your audience and showcase your brand’s personality. So why not give it a shot?

Special Offer! 15 Free images from Dreamstime

Head over to Dreamstime, and start exploring the endless possibilities that stock photos can bring to your entrepreneurial journey! Happy creating!

Self-Publishing Tip: Update Your Book Cover in 8 Easy Steps to Appeal to New Audiences

How to Update Your Cover Quickly on Kindle Direct Publishing

Did you know that you do not have to update the content in your book in order change your book cover if you are publishing through KDP.amazon.com?

In fact, updating your book cover on Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) can be a crucial step in keeping your book fresh, relevant, and appealing to potential readers. Whether you’re refreshing your brand, making a seasonal update, or correcting a design flaw, a new cover can breathe new life into your book and add excitement to your social media posts.

Here’s a quick guide to help you update your cover efficiently and effectively on KDP.

1. Prepare Your New Cover

When designing your new cover, here’s what you need to keep in mind:

Cover Content: In advance, prepare the back cover bullet points. Have an author photo that best represents you (must be print ready – 300 dpi).
Design Elements: Review other books in your book genre to ensure that your new cover aligns with your book’s content and genre. It should be eye-catching and professionally designed.
If you plan to upload your own cover image, follow these guidelines:
- Dimensions and Resolution: KDP recommends a cover size of 2560 x 1600 pixels for optimal quality. The resolution should be print ready (300 dpi) for best results.
File Format: If you plan to upload a ready image of your new book cover be sure to save in JPEG or TIFF formats.

2. Log in to Your KDP Account and access your KDP Bookshelf

Access your KDP account at kdp.amazon.com. Use your Amazon credentials to log in. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to create one.

Once logged in, navigate to your KDP Bookshelf. This is where all your published and draft books are listed. Find the book for which you want to update the cover.

4. Select the Book which needs a Cover Update and Click “Edit”

Click on the book’s title or the “…” button next to it to open the book details.

Then, either launch the Cover Creator, or click the “Edit eBook Content” button for eBooks or the “Edit Paperback Content” button for paperbacks, depending on which format you’re updating.

5. Update Your Cover

For eBooks: Navigate to the “Cover” section within the “Edit eBook Content” page. Click “Launch Cover Editor” if you want to use KDP’s Cover Creator, or choose “Upload a cover file” to upload your new design directly.
For Paperbacks: Go to the “Cover” section under the “Edit Paperback Content” page. Click “Launch Cover Editor” if you want to use KDP’s Cover Creator, or choose “Upload a cover file” to upload your new design directly.
Add your website or social media if there is space

6. Cover Creator Makes it Easy to Update Your Book

For Ebooks and Paperback or Hard Cover Books: Once you choose your design layout, check that your Title, subtitle and author name on the front cover and spine are correctly spelled.

Back Cover of your Paperback or Hard Cover Books: Next design your back cover: You have additional promotional real estate on the back cover of your paperback or hardcover books. You can add your title/ subtitle, author photo, and some bullet points that describe the key features of your book that are of interest to the reader so they are motivated to buy your book.

If you uploaded a print ready 300 dpi cover image, once your new cover is uploaded, use the preview tools provided by KDP to ensure it looks good in both desktop and mobile views. Correct any formatting issues or discrepancies.

7. Save and Publish

After reviewing, click the “Save and Continue” button to proceed through the remaining sections of the book setup. Check against books in your genre to decide whether to change your pricing. Select worldwide and extended distribution. Review any changes to your book details and pricing on last time.

When you are satisfied that all is in order, click “Publish Your Kindle eBook” or “Publish Your Paperback Book” to finalize the update. Your new cover and pricing will go live on Amazon within 24-72 hours.

Review or Update your KDP Marketing Choices

On the top bar, click on “Marketing.”

Confirm that you have confirmed your selection to participate in the Kindle Select program (auto-renews every 90 days), and you can run a promotion to offer your book for free or at a discounted price for a few days.

8. Promote Your Updated Cover

Once your new cover is live, it’s a good idea to update your marketing materials and inform your audience. Share the updated cover on social media, update your book’s landing page, and consider running a promotional campaign to draw attention to the new look.

Conclusion

Updating your book cover on KDP is a straightforward process that can have a significant impact on your book’s visibility and sales. By making updates from time to time to your book, you can attract new readers and engage your existing audience. Happy publishing!

About the Publisher

Healing Time Books is dedicated to helping authors make the most of today’s digital technologies to publish their works. Our services include assisting authors to self-publish their works as well as offering full service Desktop Publishing, Print and eBook Publishing Services, Website Design and Development, and Marketing Services.

Interested in publishing your own book?

As the world increasingly moves towards online publishing and ebooks, we are here to help authors more easily navigate what can be a confusing process to publish something new. We also assist with converting original printed works into digital format. Rest assured that all copyright and control over the publication is retained by the author.We look forward to working with you on your book. To contact us, please email us at info@healingtimebooks.com.

Book Announcement: STEPS TO NET ZERO by Gary Nahrung

This book equips you with the knowledge and tools to drive meaningful change in the fight against climate catastrophe.

What is the risk of taking no action? There is a point of no return with dire consequences for our environment.
Translates a complex scientific subject into easy to understand concepts with possible solutions.
Provides a list of practical actions you can take now to effectively reduce CO2 levels.
Available on Amazon.com in eBook, paperback and hardcover formats.

Climate change is not a distant threat looming on the horizon anymore; it’s a reality knocking on our doors today. The urgency to address this global crisis has never been greater.

Healing Time Books is thrilled to announce the release of a groundbreaking book that offers practical solutions and hope in the face of climate adversity.

Steps to Net Zero by Gary Nahrung

Practical and effective steps needed to reduce Australia’s domestic Carbon Dioxide (CO2) pollution emissions to near zero before 2050 and help slow climate change

“Steps To Net Zero” by Australian author Gary Nahrung is a relevant addition to the books currently available on climate change. It’s a beacon of actionable strategies, empowering individuals, communities, and nations to embark on the journey towards a sustainable future.

In this timely essay, author Gary Nahrung, a seasoned researcher and environmentalist, presents a comprehensive roadmap towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions, supported by scientific data specifically for Australia, yet also universal in its application. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, Gary helps us better understand the complexities of climate science, policy frameworks, and technological innovations, and offers us a clear pathway for reducing our carbon footprint.

What sets “Steps To Net Zero” apart is its accessibility. Gary Nahrung adeptly translates complex concepts into simple, digestible insights, making it a must-read for anyone concerned about the fate of our planet. Whether you’re a policymaker, business leader, activist, or concerned citizen, this book equips you with the knowledge and tools to drive meaningful change.

From renewable energy adoption to sustainable transportation, discussing economic principles and carbon offsetting strategies, “Steps To Net Zero” leaves no stone unturned in exploring diverse approaches to mitigate climate change. Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of collective action, underscoring that every individual contribution counts in the fight against climate catastrophe.

As we stand at a critical juncture in human history, “Steps To Net Zero” serves as a rallying cry for decisive action. It inspires us to transcend political divides, overcome inertia, and embrace a shared vision of a resilient, carbon-neutral world.

The author reminds us that we can each take simple yet effective Steps to Net Zero, and inspires us to turn the tide against climate change and together build a sustainable legacy for future generations.

“Steps to Net Zero” is now available for purchase on Amazon.com. Let’s take the first step towards a brighter, greener future!

Whether you’re a policymaker, business leader, activist, or concerned citizen, this book equips you with the knowledge and tools to drive meaningful change.

Healing Time Books - Book Announcement: Steps to Net Zero by Gary Nahrung - Climate Change and CO2 Crisis - available on Amazon.com and Amazon.com.au

Get Your Copy of
Steps to Net Zero by Gary Nahrung

What are your thoughts on the topic?

We encourage you to buy a copy of Steps to Net Zero and share your thoughts on the topic of reducing CO2 to help slow climate change.

Please post a review on Amazon.com, or email the author at garynahrung@gmail.com.

About the Author

Gary Nahrung grew up on a beef cattle grazing ranch in southeast Queensland, Australia. He has deep experience in horticulture sciences research and training, and commercial hydroponics. After he retired, Gary spent time looking into the risks of climate change and options to deal with the increasing unprecedented levels of CO2 levels. As an avid recreational fisherman, he has seen alarming changes in the ocean due to global warming with impact on the coral reefs and fish life.

Gary has used his science background and understanding, his practical problem-solving farming history, and his teaching and training skills to explain climate change and offer clear, workable solutions. He has produced this essay with the hopes of inspiring action and providing a better future for his children and grandchildren, for Australia, and the rest of the world.

About the Publisher

Interested in publishing your own book?

Follow @HTBphotos on Musero

Attention ARTISTS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS:

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MUSERO: a social network run by people who are dedicated to artists, who are dedicated to beauty, and who worship creation.

How to Join Musero

It’s easy to join. Just download the Musero app from your mobile phone, create your login and start posting your art and photography.

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About HTBphotos

Katharina and her husband John Notarianni enjoy photographing wildflowers, wildlife and stunning landscapes while traveling. HTBphotos represents their collaborative efforts.

HTBphotos are available exclusively on Dreamstime.

Self Publish Your Book 3 Ways on KDP.Amazon.com

Kindle Digital Publishing (KDP) now offers hardcover books (with a case laminate cover) as an option for authors who self publish their print-on-demand books. Previously Amazon’s KDP only offered paperback books which are not ideal for coffee table / photo feature books.

Over the years many of the authors I have helped publish have wanted to offer a hardcover version but without the expense normally associated with this option. Usually the author would have to order a certain number of books, store and sell them. Now, Amazon’s KDP allows authors to create a hardcover version of their book as a print on demand book! That means, no additional production expenses out of pocket. Amazon does take their usual share of profits, however in exchange they offer a trusted global distribution system to sell all versions of your book: eBooks, paperbacks and now hardcover books, too.

What is Self Publishing?

In case you are considering whether to publish your book, it may be useful to know that self publishing is an avenue of publication of media by its author without the need to involve publisher. The term usually refers to written media, such as books and magazines, either as an ebook or as a physical copy in paperback or hardback using print-on-demand (POD) technology.

Trim Size

Now Amazon offers 16 trim size options for paperback books, and five trim sizes for any book you also wish to offer in hardcover:

5.5 x 8.5”
6 x 9”
6.15 x 9.21”
7 x 10”
8.25 x 11”

Page Count

Another difference between Amazon’s paperback and hardcover specifications is the page count.

Paperback can be anywhere from 24 to 828 pages
Hardcover must be between 55 and 550 pages

Design Your Cover

KDP has cover design software to design an elegant cover for your paperback and hard cover books. You will need to change your cover size for the hardback. Here are some tips:

Note that the case laminate covers Amazon produces are made of chipboard, and wrapped with laminated paper. Amazon does not offer the usual clothbound or dust jacket option you may be familiar with. As a result, be sure that your cover design wraps around the edges of your cover. Simply extend your design beyond the actual cover dimensions (this is referred to in the industry as “bleeding”).

The basic requirements for Amazon hardcover cover designs are:

Your background should extend 0.51” past the edge of the front cover;
All text and images should be 0.635” from the edge of the book; and
No text or barcodes should be within 0.4” of the spine.

Get Help from a Professional

Having trouble with the layout, or worried you are formatting your book or cover incorrectly? To ensure your book layout and cover look as good as possible, you can hire a book designer who can help maintain your ideal aesthetic while working within Amazon KDP’s rules.

Healing Time Books Publishing and Website Services

Healing Time Books helps authors utilize today’s digital technology to publish their books.

Contact info@healingtimebooks.com for help with your self publishing project.

Photo credit: Studio Media Inc on Unsplash

Tribute to Dr. Eleanor ‘Reenah’ McGill (1939-2021)

It was with great sadness we learned that our dear friend Dr. E. Reenah McGill passed away at the end of last year. She will always hold a very special place in our hearts.

Eleanor “Reenah” McGill was born in 1939 to James and Maude McGill in Onalaska, Wisconsin. She had a passion for knowledge earning a Master of Arts, Master of Chinese Medicine, and a PhD of Philosophy in Oriental Medicine. She was still practicing acupuncture.

Throughout her years, she also lived in Germany, Georgia, Minneapolis, and LA before settling down in the Weston area of Wisconsin to be able to enjoy her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She loved to travel to China, Peru, Mexico, taking an Amazon Cruise and travelling to so many other countries.

She is preceded in death by her parents, James and Maude and, her siblings: Frank McGill and Deb Kropelin. Reenah’s memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

We first met Dr. Reenah McGill at her clinic in Los Angeles. She was impressive in the scope of her knowledge in her medical practice. She used her skills as a doctor of Chinese medicine, neurobiofeedback, and a new type of acupuncture called Esoteric Acupuncture, developed by Mikio Sankey, to make a remarkable difference in her patients. Reenah was a highly accomplished scholar and practitioner, always looking for new topics to explore and learn about in detail and overcoming any challenge with determination and resolve.

Books by Dr. E. Reenah McGill

Due to her type 1 diabetes condition which developed suddenly late in life, she became very interested in nutrition and other healing modalities. Dr. McGill and hypnotherapist Dr. Zaugg collaborated and published ‘Eat Right Lose Weight, Introducing the 5 Element Nutrition & Hypnosis System’ which is available on Amazon.com.

Eat Right Lose Weight book by Dr. E. Reenah McGill and Dr. Marianne Zaugg

Poetry by Dr. E. Reenah McGill

Dr. Reenah McGill was well known for her brilliance and delightful sense of humor and her poetry reflects her personality. Poetry MS Volume 1 and Poetry Volume 2 by Dr. E. Reenah McGill include her poems written over a span of more than forty years. They represent and reflect many changes in her life situations, thoughts and desires.

Source of family memoriam information: Published by La Crosse Tribune on Dec. 22, 2021.

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Zoom Bombings and Zoom Etiquette

HTB | Website Design – advice about Zoom bombings, a new threat, and zoom etiquette for meeting hosts

Several years ago I started using Zoom for my webinars, mainly because I didn’t consider myself a speaker/presenter and was more comfortable at a computer. No surprise, since I am a web designer and publisher! In the meantime I have had a lot of opportunities to participate and host meetings via Zoom and I still love it.

In fact, one of the positives that has resulted from the last 2 years of intermittent quarantine and adjustments in our Covid-19 affected environment is that almost everyone who is online or has a smartphone has had a zoom meeting experience. I love that even tech challenged and people who consider them too old to learn new tricks are getting on Zoom easily.

While there are other webinar services, I am a fan of having choices, and I am glad that Zoom rose to the challenge to become the obvious favorite service. Zoom Meetings allow for direct interaction, breakout sessions, recording, archiving, audio only and video tracks for reposting and more. If you are a tech person like me and need to screenshare for better communication with your client, Zoom has a screensharing option for the host and the participants which the host controls.

Here are some tips when you host a meeting to ensure a great experience for your meeting attendees:

Make introductions – introduce yourself to the attendees and especially in a smaller meeting, be sure to acknowledge individuals by name to create a more familiar environment.

Create your environment using virtual backgrounds– at an in-person meeting you would be more aware of the quality of the environment, making it specific to your theme. It is easy to select an image or video to act as a “virtual background” with Zoom’s virtual background feature. In fact, I often find wonderful nature photographs on Unsplash.com which create a relaxing mood for my meditation events.

One thing to be aware of is that sometimes body parts like hands and hair merge with the background image when you move around too much, or if the color of your outfit matches too closely. If you need to demonstrate something with your hands, or show movement, it’s best to avoid the virtual background altogether and instead consider installing an actual screen, or hold your meeting in a more neutral setting like an office.

Look at the camera -This probably sounds obvious, however, the tendency is to look at yourself to make sure you are presenting well. Instead, make an effort to look at your camera so that the attendees feel that you are talking directly to them.

Eliminate noise – It may seem obvious but unless you are the host you probably aren’t aware of background noise. Driving or walking and breathing while you are hosting a meeting generates more noise than you think. Barking dogs and landscape maintenance crews with loud blowers and mowers can’t be helped sometimes. Even notifications that ding on your computer will be relayed. Some of these you can control and others you cannot. If you are outdoors or in a car, when it is your turn to talk, stand still and slow down your breathing to a normal rate or pull the car over to reduce road noise. And if you remember, turn off the sound notifications on your device during your meetings.

Best Sound Quality – If recording the event and repurposing the content is a high priority, get a high quality noise cancelling microphone. If necessary you can opt to wear a headset with a noise cancelling microphone, like Apple’s Airpods Pro.

Host Meeting Controls – As a host you have many settings you can choose when you create your meeting. Did you know you are able to set up the Zoom meeting to allow others to unmute themselves, or for the Host only to unmute people. For the Host only to screen share, or to allow multiple people to screen share? You can also assign co-hosts for your meetings.

Warning – Zoom bombings are real! I recently learned about zoom bombings through a personal experience when a few people showed up during an online event and immediately unmuted themselves and proceeded to make disruptive noises and comments.

As a Zoom Meeting host, you can mitigate some of this risk by not posting meeting passwords, requesting people to register and then set up a waiting room so you can allow people who have been verified to enter the meeting. In a more public meeting where all are invited it’s not as easy to control however the meeting host always has the option to mute everyone. Some meeting settings to adhere to include:

Disable “Join Before Host”
Enabling “Co-Host”
Disable “File Transfer”
Disable “Allow Removed Participants to Rejoin”

Zoom added two new security features that hosts can use to address these disruptive and uninvited Zoom bombers.

Suspend Participant Activities enables hosts and cohosts to suspend meeting functions, including video, audio, in-meeting chat and breakout rooms.
Report Disruptive Attendees enables users, not just hosts and co-hosts, but also the meeting participants to report disruptive behavior like Zoom bombing from within the Zoom client using the “Security” badge. All account owners and admins need to do is enable reporting for non-hosts in their web settings.

Sources: Entrepreneur; TechCrunch; and Security Intelligence