Let’s be honest: the idea of adding live sessions to your online course can feel daunting. The thought of going live, facing real-time questions, and managing tech hiccups might make you want to stick with pre-recorded content.

But here's the thing - your presence is a present. And it's one your learners deeply value.

When I think back to the courses that truly impacted me (and as a course junkie, I’ve attended plenty!), they all had one thing in common: live interaction. I remember a particular course where the instructor hosted weekly live Q&A sessions and fireside chats. Those moments of real-time connection - where I could ask questions, hear others' perspectives, and dive deeper - made the learning experience richer and more memorable (and a lot more fun, too!).

It wasn’t just about the content. It was about feeling seen, heard, and supported.

This is why I’m so passionate about incorporating live elements into online courses, and why it’s a key part of my course creation framework when I work with clients. So, let’s take a closer look.

The Power of Live Elements

Including live elements in your course isn’t just about delivering content. It’s about creating an engaging, dynamic learning environment that supports real transformation.

Research backs this up.

A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that synchronous (live) online learning enhances interpersonal communication and provides immediate feedback — a powerful way to bridge the gap between online and face-to-face learning.

Another study, published in the International Review of Research in Open and Distributed Learning, found that students participating in live sessions saw better learning outcomes compared to those learning asynchronously.

Live interaction, it turns out, really does matter.

The Real Value of YOU

There’s another side to this conversation, too - and it’s about the unique value of you.

Courses with only pre-recorded and written materials can absolutely be useful, and you can (and should) put your personal stamp on those elements. Your videos, your writing - they all reflect your expertise.

But the biggest value for your audience often lies in their access to you.

Allowing them to pick your brain, giving them feedback, sharing those trade secrets and hard-earned insights - that’s huge. It’s something no one else can offer in quite the same way.

Sure, the information in your evergreen course might not be brand-new (it’s hard to find a truly original angle these days), but your perspective? Your experience? That’s gold dust.

And let me tell you — this unique blend of your expertise, style, personality, and feedback? It doesn’t just elevate your course. It also increases what people are willing to pay for it.

Yes, it will take more of your time and energy, but the payoff (both in impact and revenue) is more than worth it. This is something worth serious consideration.

Don’t Talk Yourself Out of It

Still feeling unsure? That’s normal.

Many of us have reservations about going live. Speaking in front of others, handling tricky questions, or simply seeing and hearing ourselves on screen (yep - I’m in that camp too!) can bring up plenty of self-doubt.

But let’s tackle those worries head-on:

"I’m not tech-savvy."
You don’t need to be. Start simple. Tools like Zoom or Google Meet are very user-friendly - and a little preparation goes a long way.

"What if I mess up?"
Perfection is overrated. Connection is what matters. Authenticity resonates more deeply than flawless delivery. Embrace those small imperfections - they make you relatable.

"I don’t have time."
Live sessions don’t need to be long or frequent. Even monthly Q&As or occasional workshops can make a massive difference.

"I’m not a natural speaker."
Your learners are there because they value your expertise — not because they expect you to be a TED Talk veteran. Confidence grows with practice, and your perspective is what makes your course special.

Creative Ways to Add Live Elements

Adding live components doesn’t mean turning your whole course upside down. There are plenty of flexible and fun ways to weave them in - and they don’t all have to be big, time-consuming sessions.

You could start simple with Q&A sessions to offer deeper insights and support. These give learners a chance to ask what’s on their minds and get immediate feedback (and no, you don’t need to know everything - part of the magic is working through challenges together).

Or how about workshops? These are perfect for helping learners apply what they’ve learned in real time, often with you there to guide them through exercises or scenarios.

You could also bring in guest interviews, which are always a hit. A fresh voice and perspective can keep things lively and help your learners see the bigger picture.

But live sessions don’t always have to be so formal or structured. Here are some more creative ideas to play with:

• Live Polls + Quick Check-ins: Use Zoom polls, emojis, or simple "thumbs up/down" moments to gauge understanding or keep energy high.

• Breakout Rooms: Encourage peer discussions or group exercises. Learners love connecting with each other too.

• On-the-spot coaching or hot seats: Give volunteers a chance for real-time coaching or feedback - it’s valuable for them and insightful for everyone else.

• Whiteboard or visual collaboration tools: Platforms like Miro or Jamboard let learners co-create visuals or brainstorm together and you can offer feedback and further insights on the back of it.

• Guided reflections or journaling moments: Pause and invite learners to reflect quietly and write. This can deepen learning and make the session feel more thoughtful.

• Interactive demonstrations: Show them exactly how something works, step-by-step, and invite questions as you go.

• Learner presentations or sharing back: Give participants opportunities to present ideas or share progress. This boosts confidence and accountability.

• Celebration moments: Don’t forget to mark milestones or completions. A little celebration goes a long way in building motivation and connection.

Even occasional community check-ins - informal gatherings where everyone can talk about progress or challenges - help create a sense of belonging that keeps people engaged and coming back.

And here’s the best part: these live moments can be recorded and shared with those who can’t attend live, ensuring everyone still benefits.

You Are the Secret Sauce

At the very heart of your course is you.

While pre-recorded content delivers information, live sessions deliver connection. They offer learners the opportunity to engage with the real person behind the curriculum. That fosters trust, understanding, and a sense of belonging that simply can’t be replicated through slides or videos alone.

You are what makes your course truly unforgettable.

Let’s Chat

Thinking about adding live elements to your course, but not sure where to begin? I’m here for you.

Let’s explore how live sessions could transform your course and make it even more valuable - for your learners, and for you.

👉 https://bit.ly/4i0Lxiq

Remember: your presence isn’t just a feature. It’s a gift.
Embrace it.