This paper discusses our innovative approach to engaging practitioners in the newly transitioned virtual classroom during the COVID-19 pandemic. With restrictions on face-to-face guest speaker sessions and industry visits we recorded interviews with practitioners on themes aligned to our course syllabus which were then uploaded to our online learning platforms. We present the benefits of such an approach as well as the challenges faced, and lessons learned. Our experience suggests that this approach has several advantages and can be replicated with limited modifications, if certain student-centered guidelines are followed.