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  • Emily Kho

Presentation Hell: A Journey Through Educational Innovation with Riley Walker

Presentation Hell is a podcast that dives into the challenges and triumphs of creating impactful presentations. Hosted by James Ontra, this episode features Riley Walker, the innovative mind behind ryco.io, as they explore the evolution of educational content and the art of presentation in a post-pandemic world.



A Quick Look at Presentation Hell

Have you ever felt the dread of creating a slide deck or experienced the sting of a presentation gone wrong? You're not alone. In the era of online presentations, the stakes are higher, and the need for engaging, effective communication is paramount. 


James Ontra and AlexAnndra Ontra, the brains behind Shufflrr, understand this all too well. They've dedicated themselves to transforming the presentation experience from a tedious task to a dynamic, rewarding process.


The Shufflrr Approach

James, CEO of Shufflrr, and AlexAnndra, Lead Presentation Strategist, have revolutionized presentation management. Their approach focuses on Structured Storytelling and Presentation Management, streamlining preparation, and ensuring consistent, polished communication. 


This method is not just about creating slides; it's about facilitating better conversations and making every communication count.


Riley Walker and ryco.io

Enter Riley Walker, the Founder & CEO of ryco.io, a company at the forefront of custom educational content. Riley's journey began in a small town in Maine, where his observations of the traditional school system's shortcomings sparked a passion for educational innovation. 


His path led him to the University of Tampa, where encounters with influential figures shaped his future in educational publishing.


The Genesis of ryco.io

ryco.io emerged from Riley's experiences and the pandemic's challenges, bolstered by a unique team that blends the expertise of experienced educators with skilled technologists.


Today, ryco.io specializes in creating immersive learning experiences, including virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), and offers a broad spectrum of services, from crafting educational manuscripts to providing tech consulting.


What sets us apart is not just the content we create at ryco.io but also the trust schools place in us. Our team's dual understanding of classroom needs and technical prowess allows us to build content that is both educationally relevant and technologically advanced. 


Another unique selling point is that the content we develop is entirely owned by the client, free from licensing or subscription fees.


Navigating the Educational Landscape

ryco.io operates at the intersection of technology and education, offering tailored solutions to schools and publishers. Together, we work closely with educators to develop content that resonates with students, setting us apart in a wildly competitive market. 


Our team, led by experts like Dan Casey, ensures that the educational direction is authentic and impactful.


The Art of Scalability and Customization

Riley discusses the scalability challenges and successes in working with schools and private companies. ryco.io's ability to create gamified, engaging content sets us apart, especially in the realm of corporate training. 


They leverage tools like Articulate 360 to craft engaging educational products, demonstrating their versatility and expertise.


The Future of ryco.io

As ryco.io continues to grow, Riley emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with talented individuals. The company's trajectory is impressive, with a significant expansion in both team size and project scope. 


Looking ahead, the team here at ryco.io is set to launch a new platform by the end of Q1 2024, marking a significant milestone in our journey.


Final Thoughts

Riley Walker's story is a testament to the power of innovation and determination in the face of educational challenges. Through ryco.io, he's not just creating content; he's reshaping the way we think about education and presentation. 


As Presentation Hell reveals, the journey through the world of presentations and educational content is fraught with challenges, but with the right approach and tools, it can lead to remarkable success and transformation.


Interested in learning more? You can check out the full podcast episode here: 




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