Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Alan Taylor. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Alan, thanks for joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on at Southwest Institute of Healing Arts was the creation of an immersive multimedia course for one of our flagship programs. The project involved blending my background in music production, audio engineering, and visual storytelling with SWIHA’s curriculum needs. I was tasked with creating engaging video lessons, recording professional voiceovers, and blending those with carefully designed visuals that would not only educate but inspire our students. I like to call it, “edu-tainment”.

The backstory is what makes this project meaningful to me. At the time, the course content was more text-based with minimally structured voice over, mostly an instructor free forming lecture content over power points. I saw an opportunity to better help students connect with the material. I wanted to transform it into something more dynamic and impactful by incorporating the same creative techniques I’ve used throughout my music career. For example, I approached voiceovers with the same care I would when recording vocals for a song—ensuring clarity, cadence, and pacing, this drew the listener in. Similarly, I edited videos with the same rhythm and storytelling principles I use in music videos, layering visuals and sound to try and evoke an emotional connection.

The results were incredible: not only did the students report higher engagement and comprehension, but the program became a model for how we now approach curriculum design going forward. What makes it especially meaningful to me is that with the support of my team and the leadership at SWIHA, it allowed me to merge my passion for creativity with a mission to help others on their personal and professional journeys. It was a beautiful reminder of how transferable the skills I honed in the music world are to education and beyond.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m Alan Taylor, and I’ve been working as an instructional technologist at Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (SWIHA) since 2011. My role involves developing multimedia materials for curriculum, including voiceover, video editing, videography, and even some content marketing. But what really makes my work unique is how much of my creative background I’ve been able to bring into this field.

Before I joined SWIHA, I spent many years as a professional musician and producer under the name ILL AL. I’ve toured, released albums, created intricate branding for my music, and worked on countless projects that required me to wear many creative hats. Whether I was engineering audio for a track, crafting visuals for an album cover, or producing music videos, I learned how to tell a story in a way that resonates with people. When I transitioned into my current role, I realized those skills weren’t just limited to music—they were invaluable in designing educational materials that truly engage and inspire students.

At SWIHA, I’ve applied that same storytelling mindset to creating learning experiences that go beyond the ordinary. I provide services like professionally produced videos, clear and compelling voiceovers, and branded media that elevate the curriculum and give students a deeper connection to the material. I also solve a very specific problem: transforming more dry or complex information into something accessible, visually appealing, and engaging.

What sets me apart is the creative lens I try and bring to the projects I’m on. Whether it’s editing a video or crafting a marketing campaign, I draw from decades of experience in music production and branding. I’m proud of the unique style I’ve developed—one that blends technical expertise with artistry and always prioritizes the user experience.

I want people to know that creativity isn’t confined to any one industry. The same skills I used to make impactful music now help me craft meaningful educational materials. Whether it’s a fan connecting to a song or a student having an “aha” moment in a course, I strive to create something that leaves a lasting impression. My work is about more than just delivering content—it’s about fostering connection, growth, and inspiration.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

One thing non-creatives might struggle to understand about the creative journey is how challenging it can be to balance inspiration with deadlines. Creativity isn’t about waiting for the perfect moment—it’s about consistently exercising that muscle, so your preparation meets opportunity. Stay ready and you won’t have to get ready.

I’ve been fortunate to work for a company like SWIHA where the leadership team empowers me with creative freedom. They afford me the opportunity to meet deadlines while giving me the space to experiment and create. That trust makes all the difference. It’s not always easy to produce meaningful work on a schedule, but with the right balance of support and self accountability, I’ve been able to craft materials that inspire and educate.

For anyone working with creatives, my advice is simple: trust the process. Flexibility and support positions us to thrive within constraints, turning deadlines into opportunities to create something transformational.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

The driving force behind my creative journey has always been a desire to help others. Whether it’s through the music I create or the curriculum I develop, my goal is to be a part of someone’s transformation—a cog in the machine of their change for the better.

In my work at Southwest Institute of Healing Arts, that means creating materials that inspire students to connect with their purpose and grow in ways they didn’t think possible. I see every video, voiceover, and lesson as an opportunity to empower someone on their journey. Similarly, in my music, I strive to craft songs that resonate, uplift, and spark reflection.

For me, creativity is about connection. It’s about reaching people where they are and giving them the tools or encouragement they need to take their next step. That mission is what drives me, and it’s what makes every project feel meaningful.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://swiha.edu
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-taylor-73b22b95

Image Credits

Jimmy Nelson