GoogleTM has recently updated their verification process for their webmaster services. The changes are small but are slightly different to those described and shown in the Understanding Search Engines DVD.
The first change is that the Meta tag verification will no longer be generated based on your email address. Previously it was and caused verified sites to become unverified if your email address changed.
The second is to do with the file verification process. Now GoogleTM will provide a file for you to upload to your website rather than just providing you with a file name to create. Therefore to verify your website using a file, use the download link they provide and then upload it to your website as instructed on the SEO Training DVD.