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How to Use Video SEO and Get More Customers

Video SEO is no longer just a marketing luxury—it’s a necessity for businesses that want to stand out, drive traffic, and convert leads into customers. With 86% of businesses using video as a marketing tool (Wyzowl, 2023), it’s clear that organizations who embrace video content are seeing real results. One of the most powerful (and often underutilized) benefits of video? Its ability to improve SEO and increase customer acquisition.

Here’s how video boosts your search engine rankings and turns views into revenue—and how you can take full advantage of it.

1. Google Loves Video (Because Users Do)

Google’s algorithm prioritizes content that engages users and keeps them on the page. Video dramatically increases “dwell time“—the amount of time someone spends on your site before clicking away. The longer people stay, the more search engines assume your content is valuable.

Websites with video seo are 53 times more likely to rank on the first page of Google search results (Forrester, 2021).
Adding explainer videos, testimonials, or product walkthroughs to landing pages can decrease bounce rates and encourage users to explore more of your content.

2. Video Increases Click-Through Rates in SERPs

When a video thumbnail appears in search results, it stands out more than a block of text. This can dramatically increase your organic click-through rate (CTR).

According to BrightEdge (2022), videos in search listings can improve CTR by up to 41%.
Google often pulls video snippets from YouTube or embedded videos on high-ranking pages. This means hosting videos on YouTube and embedding them on your website can amplify your visibility.

3. Video Enhances On-Page SEO

Search engines can’t watch your video, but they can crawl everything around it. Titles, meta descriptions, transcripts, captions, and schema markup all contribute to how well your video content ranks.

Best practices include:

Using target keywords in video titles and descriptions
Including an SEO-optimized transcript
Adding closed captions for accessibility
Embedding video schema (structured data) to help search engines understand your video content
HubSpot (2023) reports that pages with well-optimized videos see up to 157% more organic traffic than those without.

4. Video Content Earns Backlinks and Shares

Great video content is more likely to be shared and linked to than plain text. This builds your domain authority and helps boost all your SEO efforts.

Moz (2021) found that video content earns three times more backlinks than other forms of content.
Consider creating shareable assets like how-tos, animated explainers, or compelling brand stories—anything that provides value, entertainment, or emotional resonance.

5. YouTube Is a Search Engine (and You Should Be Using It)

YouTube is the world’s second-largest search engine, with over 2.5 billion monthly users (Statista, 2023). Creating consistent video content on YouTube helps you appear not just in Google but within YouTube’s massive discovery ecosystem.

Tips:

Create playlists around topics or services
Include links to your site in descriptions
Use branded intros and CTAs
Focus on high-volume, low-competition keywords
By cross-linking your YouTube videos with your website and blog, you create an SEO loop that feeds itself.

6. Videos Improve Conversion Rates

Ranking is great, but conversion is the goal. Videos help turn browsers into buyers. Whether it’s a product demo, testimonial, or animated explainer, videos build trust and simplify complex ideas.

According to Unbounce (2022), landing pages with video can increase conversion rates by up to 80%.
Visitors are more likely to take action after watching a video because it humanizes your brand and adds emotional context to your message.

7. Video Boosts Local SEO Too

If you’re a local business, using video seo helps content tied to your community, boost your rankings in local search results. Things like customer testimonials, behind-the-scenes clips, or “Meet the Team” videos can enhance your Google Business Profile and improve engagement.

Google Business Profiles with video content get 2x more engagement than those without (Think With Google, 2023).
Local businesses can also benefit from geo-tagged YouTube content and locally focused video blogs.

8. Technical Tips to Maximize SEO Impact

Use fast-loading, mobile-friendly video players
Place videos near the top of your pages to ensure higher visibility
Optimize video filenames and alt tags
Use video sitemaps to help search engines index your video library

Conclusion: Video Is the SEO Power Tool You’re Probably Underusing

If you want to rank higher, convert more, and dominate your niche, video should be at the core of your SEO strategy. It combines storytelling, search performance, and human psychology in one high-impact medium.

By embedding, optimizing, and promoting video across your website, YouTube, and social platforms, you’re not just adding media—you’re building a stronger digital presence that attracts, engages, and retains more customers.

Citations

Wyzowl. (2023). State of Video Marketing Report.
Forrester Research. (2021). The SEO Benefits of Video.
BrightEdge. (2022). Search Engine Results Page Enhancements.
HubSpot. (2023). Video Marketing Statistics.
Moz. (2021). Link Building and Video Content.
Statista. (2023). YouTube Usage Data.
Unbounce. (2022). Video and Conversion Rates.
Think With Google. (2023). Local Video Engagement Trends.

How Episode 11 Productions Accidentally Created the Guardians of the Children Theme Song for Mooresville-Unofficially

When Episode 11 Productions committed to providing full video production support to the Guardians of the Children – Mooresville Chapter, we knew we were stepping into something powerful. This wasn’t just about covering events or capturing highlight reels. It was about telling the stories no one else sees—the early morning court appearances, the quiet moments of mentorship, the emotional weight behind each ride.

But what we didn’t anticipate was that somewhere between the camera setups, edit sessions, and tear-jerking interviews, we’d write a song. Not for attention. Not as a marketing gimmick. Just… because it happened.

Now, that song—the one that started as a spontaneous late-night jam in the editing suite—has become something deeper. A musical heartbeat of this chapter’s mission. A non-official, but emotionally charged anthem that’s now woven into every highlight video, rally recap, and testimonial we produce for GOC Mooresville. You can listen here:

It Started With a Chord… and a Cause

The idea came about the way most creative things do at Episode 11: completely unplanned. Randy Davis, our co-founder and longtime director (and an Air Force vet with a soft spot for outcasts and an occasional harmonica), picked up a guitar during a long night of editing Guardian ride footage.

“I remember saying, ‘Man, these folks ride like thunder, but show up like angels,’” said Davis. “Then I played a few chords that sounded like both.”

From there, lyrics began to form—lines that felt more like testimonies than verses.

“They ride so a child can sleep.”

“They stand when the room goes quiet.”

“They show up when no one else will.”

Beth Davis, Episode 11’s co-owner and post-production lead, added her usual blend of editing precision and creative soul, helping shape the structure, tone, and feel. What started as background music for a B-roll sequence evolved into something far more emotional.

“There’s something about matching powerful visuals with sound that brings out truth you didn’t even realize was there,” said Beth. “This wasn’t just music. It became part of their story.”

Music: The Missing Ingredient in Mission-Driven Messaging

What’s fascinating is how organically this happened—and yet, how much it aligns with what modern research tells us: music and storytelling combined are one of the most powerful tools in nonprofit advocacy.

A 2023 study published in the Journal of Nonprofit and Public Sector Marketing found that music-based emotional framing in nonprofit video campaigns significantly increases viewer empathy, donation likelihood, and memory recall of the message (Lee, S., & Kim, H., 2023). In short: when people feel it, they remember it—and they act.

That’s exactly what Episode 11 observed with the song.

“We’d show early cuts of the video to volunteers or new recruits, and they’d say, ‘Wait—what’s that song?’” said Randy. “Some people teared up before the footage even ended. That’s when we knew it was more than just a melody. It was resonance.”

A Song with No Title—But a Big Impact

The track doesn’t have a formal name. No sheet music. No Spotify link. It was never created for commercial release. But it shows up like a loyal friend:

•In the background of ride footage

•During documentary-style interviews with Guardians

•As a subtle build under a survivor’s voice sharing their story

•And at every turn where emotion meets action

•Or even if you just want to blast it during your commute

While the Guardians of the Children Theme Song was never formally adopted it as an anthem, members have begun to refer to it affectionately as “their song.” And to Episode 11, that’s more than enough.

“We didn’t write a jingle. We wrote a mirror,” said Beth. “It just happens to be in 4/4 time.”

The Power of Showing Up Creatively

For Episode 11 Productions, supporting GOC Mooresville isn’t a line item on a community outreach plan—it’s a full creative investment in a cause that matters. From filming courtroom support moments and community events to editing recruitment videos and promotional campaigns, the company has committed a full year of video production support—free of charge.

The addition of a Guardians of the Children theme song wasn’t part of the plan. But as the saying goes: the best stories write themselves. And the best partnerships create art that no one saw coming.

So while this song may not win a Grammy (yet), it’s doing something more valuable: helping a child feel seen. Helping a volunteer feel called. And helping a community understand what Guardians do—not just through a camera lens, but through sound, feeling, and soul.

Below are the lyrics to the song:

““We Ride for the Silent” A Tribute to Guardians of the Children – Mooresville, NC Genre: Acoustic Rock / Americana / Inspirational

[Verse 1]
Down in Mooresville, where the engines hum, There’s a chapter of warriors who don’t come undone. Leather and steel, hearts made of gold, They carry the stories that never get told. They don’t wear suits, no polished shoes, But they show up strong when a child’s been bruised. Through the fear, through the pain, They’re the thunder rollin’ in the rain.

[Chorus]
They ride for the silent, the lost, the unheard, They speak for the broken with action, not words. Guardians of the Children, strong and bold, In a world gone cold, they never let go. They don’t back down, they don’t retreat, They stand in the gap ‘til the hurt feels peace. With leather vests and open hearts, They’re the light when the darkness starts.

[Verse 2]
You won’t see medals, you won’t hear fame, But every child they hold learns to trust again. A patch on their back, a name on their chest, They fight for the ones who deserve the best. Courtroom silence, trembling hands, These riders become a child’s stand. One by one, they rewrite fate — And love becomes what heals the hate.

[Chorus]
They ride for the silent, the lost, the unheard, They speak for the broken with action, not words. Guardians of the Children, brave and true, Doing what too many just don’t do. They don’t ask why, they just step in, They ride so a child can live again. With thunder in the pipes and fire in the soul, They bring hope where the shadows roll.

[Bridge] Sometimes angels wear tattoos, And ride with scars like battle truths. They show up when others won’t — And promise kids they’re not alone.

[Final Chorus]
They ride for the silent, for healing and grace, For the tear-streaked cheeks and the haunted face. Guardians of the Children — Mooresville’s pride, With every mile, they turn the tide. So when you hear that rumble on down the line, Know a hero’s near, and the kids are fine. Because love don’t whisper — it rolls deep — And rides wide-awake while the world’s asleep.”

About Episode 11 Productions

Founded in 2007, Episode 11 Productions is a full-service video production company with offices in Charlotte, Burlington, and Morganton, NC. The company specializes in corporate video, nonprofit storytelling, 3D animation, and aerial cinematography. With a psychologically driven and emotionally intelligent approach, Episode 11 helps organizations across the Southeast tell stories that inform, inspire, and transform.

About Guardians of the Children – Mooresville Chapter

Guardians of the Children is a national nonprofit made up of motorcycle riders who serve as advocates for children who have been abused or neglected. The Mooresville Chapter offers unwavering support, safety, and mentorship to children in crisis—often riding, standing, and showing up for them in ways that restore trust and hope. As of now, the Guardians of the Children Theme Song exist, even if it’s only for the Mooresville chapter and even if it’s only unofficially.

Media Contact

Randy Davis

Director & Co-Founder, Episode 11 Productions

📞 (704) 451-5073

📧 info@episode11productions.com

🌐 www.episode11productions.com

Citation:

Lee, S., & Kim, H. (2023). The Sound of Giving: Emotional Framing and Music’s Role in Enhancing Nonprofit Video Engagement. Journal of Nonprofit and Public Sector Marketing, 35(1), 22-39. https://doi.org/10.1080/10495142.2022.2048167

Film Crew, Stingers, Sticks, and C-47s

If you’ve ever wandered onto a film set and heard a film crew member yell, “Fly in the pancake with a hot brick, and flag the baby,” you probably had two reactions: confusion, and the urge to check if you accidentally walked into a hostage negotiation between electricians and pastry chefs. But no, my friend—you’ve simply entered the wonderful world of film crew terminology.

The film crew industry is built on stories, lights, camera angles… and a baffling stew of jargon that sounds like it came from a fever dream shared by pirates, stagehands, and engineers during a power outage. The reason? Tradition, efficiency, inside jokes, and—let’s be honest—a dash of smug exclusivity.

Let’s decode the most ridiculous (yet completely real) terms you’ll hear on set.

C-47s (a.k.a. Clothespins in Disguise)

Yes, a C-47 is a clothespin. Not some fancy camera component or a Cold War spy plane—it’s a wooden pin used to attach lighting gels to barn doors. So why not call it a clothespin? Legend has it that calling them “C-47s” made them sound technical enough to get past budget approval forms. In fact, some say the term originated during WWII to give a line-item more credibility on military inventory logs. [Source: American Cinematographer Magazine, 2001]

Stinger (It’s Not a Bee, But It Can Shock You)

A stinger is simply an extension cord, usually the heavy-duty kind. It delivers power—hence the “sting.” This one actually has a reasonable origin, likely from the early 20th-century theatrical world where extension cords weren’t as common and needed distinctive names. Today, if you trip on a stinger, you’ve been properly initiated into the club. [Source: ASC Manual, 10th Edition]

Apple Box (No Apples Were Harmed)

Apple boxes are wooden boxes used for literally everything: raising actors to eye-level, giving crew something to sit on, propping up gear. They come in Full, Half, Quarter, and Pancake sizes. And yes, “Pancake” is the official term for the flattest one. In a pinch, a Full Apple plus a Half Apple becomes a “One and a Half,” which sounds like a drink but will only give you back pain. [Source: “Gripology 101,” FilmTools, 2022]

Sticks (Not from the Forest)

“Grab the sticks!” means bring the tripod. Not an actual bundle of twigs. Calling tripods “sticks” sounds rugged and efficient, and hey—it saves two syllables. Film crews are nothing if not lazy-efficient with their breath. Plus, “tripod” is what tourists use. “Sticks” is what professionals wield.

Gobo (Still Not a Sneeze)

A gobo is a metal or glass stencil placed in front of a light to shape it. Want to project a tree shadow on the wall? That’s a gobo. The word comes from “goes before optics,” which is oddly logical for something this weird-sounding. But again, it sounds more like a Harry Potter spell than a lighting tool. [Source: Stage Lighting Handbook, Francis Reid, 2001]

Hot Brick (Neither a Weapon Nor a Pizza Oven Tool)

“Hot brick” refers to a fully charged battery, usually for walkie-talkies. The term comes from the literal heat these things generate after charging. Need to talk to the AD? Better grab a hot brick or get ready to mime across a noisy set. If you ask for a cold brick, expect a dirty look—or worse, radio silence. [Source: “Film Production Technique,” Bruce Mamer]

Juicer (Not a Health Coach)

The juicer is the electrician. They handle the juice—electricity. These are the brave souls managing all things power-related. If you’re shooting on location in a forest, at night, with a generator that sounds like a dying lawn mower—it’s the juicer who keeps the lights on and everyone from electrocuting themselves. [Source: IATSE Local 728 Handbook]

10-1 and 10-2 (Because Saying ‘Bathroom’ Is Too Mainstream)

Film crews like to keep it classy over the radio. 10-1 means you’re going to pee. 10-2 means you’re going to be a minute, and maybe bring a magazine. It’s all about radio etiquette. After all, nobody wants to hear “I gotta poop” broadcast on channel 2 while the director’s giving notes. [Source: Production Sound Mixing Manual, 2019]

Flying In (No Capes, No Helicopters)

“Flying in” means someone is walking—yes, just walking—something over to set, usually with the urgency of someone returning your lost child. Nothing is actually flying. This phrase is a lie, but we all accept it and move on. The only thing that might take flight is your patience.

Martini Shot (Cheers to False Hope)

This is the alleged last shot of the day. Supposedly named because the next shot should be in a glass. The problem? After you wrap the martini shot, there’s always a “safety take,” then a “we forgot to get that insert,” then a drone shot. The martini lies to us all. [Source: “The Filmmaker’s Handbook,” Ascher & Pincus, 2012]

Striking (Not a Labor Union Reference This Time)

When a gaffer yells “Striking!” they’re not making a political statement. They’re warning the crew that a powerful light is about to come on. Ignore this and you’ll be seeing spots until next Tuesday. It’s also your cue to stop standing in front of the lens and pretending you’re in Vogue.

Room Tone (30 Seconds of Resentment)

Room tone is when the sound mixer records silence from the location, and everyone has to stand perfectly still. If you move, sigh, or breathe too loudly, you will be judged. It’s the quietest 30 seconds in the loudest industry on Earth. A beautiful, awkward ritual that reminds us why sound mixers are either zen masters or one paper jam away from a meltdown.

Baby (Don’t Put It in a Corner)

A “baby” is a type of light stand. A “junior” is a bigger one. A “combo” is… you guessed it, a combo. Babies are often used for lighter lights (no pun intended), and despite the name, are treated with the same reverence as actual infants—just with more gaffer’s tape.

Film crew terminology isn’t just colorful—it’s a badge of honor. It separates the folks who’ve pulled 18-hour shoot days from those who just watch the behind-the-scenes featurettes on Blu-rays. At Episode 11 Productions, we don’t just understand the language—we live it. We yell “Striking!” before lights turn on, we fly in C-47s with the precision of a nap-deprived ninja, and yes, we know the martini shot is probably not the last shot of the day… but we’ll smile and say “Cheers” anyway.

Want to work with a film crew  that speaks fluent Setlish? Episode 11 Productions has been on sets big and small, from documentaries to major networks like MTV, A&E, and McDonald’s commercials. We know our sticks from our stingers, and we never forget our hot bricks.

So next time you need a film crew that can bring clarity to chaos and comedy to camera setups, call us. We promise to bring the full apple.

Citations

• American Cinematographer Magazine (2001).
• Discusses the origin of the term “C-47” and its rumored usage during WWII to mask clothespin purchases as military hardware.
  ASC Manual, 10th Edition – American Society of Cinematographers.
• Provides detailed definitions of common film set terminology, including “stinger,” “gobo,” and “apple box.”
  Gripology 101 – FilmTools (2022).
• An online guide for grips that explains practical tools like apple boxes, stingers, and light modifiers with humor and clarity.
  Stage Lighting Handbook by Francis Reid (2001).
• A professional resource for stage and film lighting, outlining lighting instruments and accessories including gobos.
  Film Production Technique: Creating the Accomplished Image by Bruce Mamer (2013).
• A comprehensive textbook used in film schools covering production roles, set language, and practical workflow.
  IATSE Local 728 Electrician Handbook – International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees.
• Union documentation and training manuals used by juicers (set electricians) across the U.S., detailing equipment and safety.
  The Filmmaker’s Handbook by Steven Ascher and Edward Pincus (2012 Edition).
• Often referred to as “the bible” of film production, this source discusses terms like “martini shot” and on-set best practices.
  Production Sound Mixing Manual – Location Sound Corporation (2019).
• A sound department training resource describing concepts like “room tone,” “10-1,” and “10-2” with radio etiquette tips.
  Behind the Scenes – Set Lingo and What It Means – No Film School (2021).
• An online resource breaking down common and quirky terms used in day-to-day film production with crew anecdotes.
  StudioBinder Glossary of Film Terms – StudioBinder.com.
• A searchable glossary of pre-production, production, and post-production film terms, with definitions, examples, and diagrams.