The Think Media Podcast: Episode 363 - What Is Working RIGHT NOW on YouTube!
Release Date: November 19, 2024
In Episode 363 of The Think Media Podcast, host Sean Cannell delves into the current landscape of YouTube, dissecting various features and strategies to determine what’s truly effective in 2025. Joined by fellow Think Media content creators, Nathan and Craig, the trio engages in an insightful discussion, categorizing each topic as Overrated, Underrated, or Properly Rated. This comprehensive summary captures their key points, notable quotes, and actionable insights to help creators optimize their YouTube presence.
1. YouTube Channel Trailer – Overrated
Discussion Highlights:
- Sean Cannell argues that creating a scripted and polished channel trailer often doesn't contribute significantly to channel growth.
- Instead, he suggests using a strong first impression video for unsubscribed viewers and a different video for subscribers.
Notable Quote:
"I think that YouTube channel trailers are overrated... but leaving the unsubscribed video blank is underrated."
— Sean Cannell [01:19]
Insights:
- Focus efforts on creating engaging content rather than dedicating time to produce an elaborate channel trailer.
- Utilize YouTube settings to display a high-impact video to new visitors instead of a traditional trailer.
2. Osmo Pocket 3 Camera – Underrated
Discussion Highlights:
- While the Osmo Pocket 3 garners significant hype, Sean and Craig believe its versatility as a compact tool makes it a valuable asset for various content creators.
- Craig mentions its limitations for certain types of videos but acknowledges its usefulness for on-the-go shooting and filmmaking.
Notable Quote:
"It's so easy to use... the flip vertical feature is a game-changer for creators."
— Sean Cannell [04:11]
Insights:
- The Osmo Pocket 3 is ideal for vloggers and creators who need a lightweight, portable camera.
- It serves as a powerful complement to your primary camera, especially for capturing dynamic or spontaneous shots.
3. YouTube Shopping Feature – Underrated
Discussion Highlights:
- Initially perceived as merely YouTube's take on affiliate marketing, Sean Cannell reclassifies YouTube Shopping as severely underrated due to its potential for revenue generation.
- The feature integrates seamlessly with vertical videos and shorts, enabling creators to monetize effectively.
Notable Quote:
"YouTube shopping is severely underrated... we've tracked $68.11 just from YouTube Shopping this week alone."
— Sean Cannell [05:25]
Insights:
- Embrace YouTube Shopping to promote and sell products directly, enhancing monetization without relying solely on traditional affiliate links.
- Experiment with integrating product links in shorts to capitalize on impulse purchases and seamless viewer experiences.
4. YouTube Shorts – Underrated
Discussion Highlights:
- Despite controversy and mixed opinions, Sean Cannell maintains that YouTube Shorts remain underrated, emphasizing their potential for creativity and channel growth.
- The debate centers around whether shorts can effectively build a personal brand and generate meaningful engagement.
Notable Quote:
"Despite the smoke and controversy, I believe YouTube Shorts are underrated and offer a unique avenue for creativity."
— Sean Cannell [12:15]
Insights:
- Shorts can drive significant traffic and subscriber growth if leveraged creatively and consistently.
- Consider maintaining separate channels for shorts and long-form content to target different audiences effectively.
5. Premiering Uploads vs. Standard Scheduled Uploads – Properly Rated
Discussion Highlights:
- Sean Cannell views the premiere feature as properly rated, useful for creating event-like engagements around substantial content releases.
- However, he acknowledges that for routine or shorter videos, premieres may not offer additional benefits and can sometimes be exhausting for creators.
Notable Quote:
"Premieres are like film events; they work best for in-depth content that warrants real-time community engagement."
— Sean Cannell [16:42]
Insights:
- Utilize premieres for major content pieces like documentaries or series launches to foster community interaction.
- For regular or shorter uploads, sticking to standard scheduling may be more efficient and less taxing.
6. Tags – Underrated
Discussion Highlights:
- Tags often receive little attention but play a crucial role in video discoverability through effective keyword strategy.
- Sean emphasizes the importance of researching and selecting relevant long-tail keywords to optimize search rankings.
Notable Quote:
"Tags are underrated because they are part of a holistic process that enhances your video's searchability."
— Sean Cannell [20:31]
Insights:
- Invest time in keyword research to identify relevant tags that align with your content and target audience.
- Use tools like VidIQ or Rapid Tags to streamline the tagging process and maximize the 500-character limit effectively.
7. Regular Upload Schedules – Properly Rated
Discussion Highlights:
- Maintaining a consistent upload schedule is deemed properly rated, providing structure and accountability for creators.
- Sean notes that while consistency aids in viewer expectations and algorithm favorability, overemphasis on strict schedules can lead to unnecessary stress.
Notable Quote:
"Consistency is what matters; it’s about building habits rather than stressing over exact upload times."
— Sean Cannell [27:40]
Insights:
- Establish a realistic and sustainable upload routine to foster long-term growth and audience loyalty.
- Focus on the quality and consistency of content rather than rigid adherence to specific upload days or times.
8. YouTube Premium – Underrated
Discussion Highlights:
- YouTube Premium is considered underrated for its benefits of ad-free viewing and potential revenue streams for creators.
- Sean highlights the balance between viewer experience and creator earnings, emphasizing the value of an uninterrupted viewing experience.
Notable Quote:
"YouTube Premium is underrated. Paying for it improves viewer experience and still supports creators."
— Sean Cannell [31:02]
Insights:
- Encourage viewers to consider YouTube Premium for an enhanced experience while still contributing to your channel’s revenue.
- Explore integrating premium features or exclusive content to add value for subscribers considering YouTube Premium.
Conclusion & Key Takeaways
In this episode, Sean Cannell and his guests provide a nuanced exploration of various YouTube features, challenging conventional wisdom and offering fresh perspectives on what truly drives channel success in 2025. Key takeaways include:
- Focus on Quality Content: Prioritize creating engaging and valuable content over maintaining elements like channel trailers.
- Leverage New Features: Embrace underrated features like YouTube Shopping and Shorts to diversify revenue streams and enhance engagement.
- Optimize for Discoverability: Utilize tags effectively as part of a comprehensive SEO strategy to boost video visibility.
- Balance Consistency and Flexibility: Maintain a regular upload schedule to build audience trust while allowing flexibility to adapt as needed.
- Explore Monetization Options: Consider the benefits of YouTube Premium and other monetization strategies to maximize income without compromising viewer experience.
By adopting these strategies, creators can navigate the evolving YouTube landscape with confidence, ensuring sustained growth and a robust online presence.
Additional Resources:
- VidIQ: Enhance your YouTube strategy with AI-driven tools. vidiq.com/think (Promoted by Sean Cannell)
- Video Ranking Academy: Dive deeper into optimizing your videos for search. thinkmasterclass.com
For more insights and strategies, subscribe to The Think Media Podcast and stay updated on the latest trends in online video growth and monetization.