#15: The power of video storytelling and the need to own your platform. A talk with Silver Laadoga (Founder and CEO of Videolevels, Estonia)

In this episode of the ScreenMe podcast, Ulrike Rohn engages in a conversation with Silver Laadoga, an expert with 20 years of experience in video and audio streaming. Silver shares his journey as the founder of Videolevels—a company that helps businesses to launch their custom streaming platforms. They delve into the future of video content, the importance of companies owning their own streaming platforms, the role of storytelling in the digital age, and how businesses can adapt to engage with Generation Z. The discussion also touches on the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship in the evolving media landscape.KeywordsMedia trends, video streaming, decentralized platforms, content creation, storytelling, AI in media, generation z, entrepereneurship, media startupsTakeawaysThe Rise of Video: Video is becoming the dominant medium for communication, learning, and engagement, especially among younger generations like Gen Z.Control Over Content: Companies benefit from having their own streaming platforms to maintain control over content, branding, and monetization models.Decentralization Trend: The future points toward decentralized video platforms, giving content creators more control and personalization options.Simplifying Production: Advances in technology make video production more accessible and affordable, enabling even small businesses to create high-quality content.Importance of Storytelling: As businesses become more like media companies, storytelling and creativity are essential skills to stand out in a saturated information landscape.Role of AI: While AI can assist in routine tasks, human creativity remains crucial for compelling storytelling and content creation.Interactive Viewing: Future video streaming will be more engaging and interactive, allowing viewers to choose their own perspectives and become part of the storytelling process.Entrepreneurial Journey: Building a startup is challenging but fulfilling, and seeking feedback from customers, peers, and mentors is vital for growth and validation.Key Quotes"Video is the future, and all companies should have their own streaming platform." "Being an entrepreneur is like having an adventure every day." "All businesses are kind of becoming media companies." "Storytelling is what is important, and AI will be just a tool." Silver Laadoga BIO:Silver is CEO of Videolevels - a platform to decentralise video streaming and make it easy for every business and content creator to have their own Netflix. He has 20 years of experience with video and audio streaming. Before Videolevels he had built and sold one of the largest streaming services companies in Estonia.Links: www.videolevels.com With refrences to: www.storytek.eu (see also ScreenME episode #10 with Sten-Kristian Saluveer)www.votemo.com (see also ScreenME episode #1 with Dagmar Mäe)Host: Ulrike RohnSound: Tanel Kadalipp (episode 1-14), Sangam Panta (episode 15 -https://bfmentrepreneurhub.tlu.ee/screenme-podcast/