In this episode, Blake Watson explores Sora, the new AI video generation tool from OpenAI, and shares how real estate agents and small business owners can use it to build stronger personal connections with clients.
Rather than just creating funny or experimental videos, Blake demonstrates how to use Sora to make customized, meaningful greeting videos—like birthday messages—that stand out and make lasting impressions.
Key Topics Covered
What is Sora?
Sora is an AI-powered video creation app developed by OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT.
It transforms simple text prompts into lifelike, photorealistic videos.
Sora 2, the latest version, was released on September 30, 2025.
Available for desktop and mobile devices (iOS and Android), though still invitation-only during its rollout phase.
How Sora Works
Users describe a short video scene in natural language.
The app then generates a fully animated and realistic video in about 1–2 minutes.
Free users can make 10–15 second clips; pro users can create longer ones.
It automatically fills in missing details, creating natural and complete scenes without requiring technical expertise.
Example Use Case:
Birthday Videos
Blake shares several creative ways he’s used Sora for personalized birthday messages:
Rock Music Fan
Example: A prompt for a garage band named “Bacon Hayes” singing “Happy Birthday, Joey.”
Baseball Fan Example:
A video featuring two friends at a World Series game wishing Joey a happy birthday.
Camping Example: A clip of friends around a campfire wishing Arch a happy birthday.
Each example demonstrates how Sora interprets minimal instructions and adds realistic, spontaneous details—such as improvised dialogue or background settings—that enhance the personal feel.
Why Personalized AI
Videos Work
A customized AI video amplifies emotional connection far beyond a text message or Facebook post.
These videos are memorable, highly shareable, and feel more genuine.
By tying the message to a person’s interests or shared experiences, the video becomes a personal keepsake rather than a generic greeting.
Ethical and Technical Notes
Currently, Sora does not use uploaded photos of recognizable people, to prevent misuse or impersonation.
You can, however, include images of objects, homes, pets, or scenes to integrate into your AI-generated videos.
OpenAI continues refining the tool with built-in safeguards as it expands availability.
Marketing Takeaways
Personalization is the new marketing currency. A short, custom AI video can create stronger client loyalty than mass communication.
Video enhances engagement. Texting a client a video increases connection and memorability tenfold compared to a regular message.
Human creativity meets AI efficiency. Sora handles the production, but your human touch makes it meaningful.
Action Steps (Your “Homework”)
1. Download the Sora app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
2. If you don’t have access yet, request an invitation code from someone already using Sora—or reach out to Blake for one.
3. Create your first AI birthday greeting using a personalized prompt for a friend or client.
4. Send it directly via text message for maximum personal impact.
5. Observe reactions and brainstorm other ways to integrate Sora into your marketing (holiday greetings, event invites, thank-you notes).
Connect with Blake Watson
Blake Watson is a Realtor with Epique Realty serving Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Northwest Georgia.
