Seattle-based non-profit Washingtonians for a Responsible Future got in touch requesting a video that explains the upcoming long-term care crisis for America’s aging population. The goal was to highlight the issue in a way that doesn’t terrify viewers, but rather moves them towards understanding and a desire to become more involved.

With all of that in mind, I came up with an idea to use chickens as our protagonists. Chickens are always good for lighthearted fun, and there are plenty of metaphors for aging that work with a chicken motif. Wow, I just wrote the phrase “chicken motif.”

We loved working on this project, and it’s always wonderful to help non-profits reach people in new ways. As I write this, the video has gotten about 32,000 views on Facebook alone.

The script:

For spring chickens, it’s hard to imagine aging into lovable old birds, having trouble moving around the nest, and needing a caring wing to lean on.

We all deserve TLC when our feathers are worn, but it costs money. Today, the average cost of long term care for each of us is about a hundred thousand dollars. Most of the time, money, and effort it takes to care for our aging loved ones comes from family finances.

As our aging population explodes, governments and families are straining to meet the need, and it’s getting worse. In our state alone, Medicaid spending on long term care will more than double in fifteen years.

Yes, we’ve got plenty to flap about, but there are solutions. Washingtonians for a Responsible Future is a diverse coalition of problem solvers. Together, we can build a strong, supportive future for Washington families. Please join us.

Learn more at responsiblefuture.org.

The Exploozy team approached us with a simple task: Make a 90-second video about a revolutionary app that can make a 90-second video in ten seconds. Since this video took us about 8 weeks to produce from start to finish, we’re honestly not sure how we feel about this product. In any case, we hope you enjoy the fruits of our labor.

The script:

Meet Exploozy! It’s a simple, easy-to-use app that transforms your ideas into amazing animated explainer videos.

Let’s face it, professional animation and storytelling are hard work. It requires trained and talented human beings. Worst of all, it costs money. What a drag.

Exploozy disrupts all that. It’s like having a team of gifted writers and artists in the palm of your hand working for free.

Here’s how it works:

Simply write or sketch your idea. Don’t worry; your idea doesn’t have to be good.

Then, fire up Exploozy, and snap a photo. Select a few options, and hello, creativity!

Exploozy uses the latest technologies, including machine learning, algorithms, and the cloud to create the perfect animation for your idea. That’s right: Algorithms.

In 10 seconds, you’ve got a 90-second video that’s pretty much the best thing ever.

Exploozy does more than just turn your ideas into awesomeness. It’s also highly social. Just tap, and huzzah! – your cloud-crafted, automated, procedurally-generated video experience is connecting with people on an authentic human level.

Thanks to Exploozy, every idea is a great idea.

So, join the future and start exploozing now!

Last year, I was invited to deliver a lecture on visual storytelling as part of an innovative course called Becoming the Next Bill Nye: Writing and Hosting the Educational Show.

The course is now live on MIT Open Courseware, complete with a video of my lecture. Check it out for insights on animation, storyboarding, and more.

A special thanks goes out to our staff member, John McGowan, who helped students create an on-the-fly digital storyboard during the session, while providing feedback and support while they worked on their own ideas.