The Lean YouTuber Method is a simple framework that makes YouTube video creation easier and more efficient. It emphasizes using tools and AI to streamline the process. The method includes steps such as coming up with video topics and ideas, creating titles, setting up a studio, scripting, filming, editing, and designing thumbnails. The key takeaways include using AI tools for title and keyword generation, practicing and improving speaking skills, investing in good sound equipment, using free or ...
Sep 02, 2024•26 min•Ep. 172
MrBeast, one of YouTube's biggest creators, is facing allegations of manipulation, neglect, and abuse from former employees. The allegations include locking an employee in a room for 30 days without proper conditions, violating the Geneva Convention, and hiring a registered sex offender. The second video released by Dogpack404, a former MrBeast employee, has gained over 10 million views and sparked controversy. The future of MrBeast's career and his company is uncertain, and he may face lawsuits...
Aug 26, 2024•26 min•Ep. 171
This conversation explores different ways to make money on YouTube, including sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and courses/information products. Grant shares his experience with sponsorships, discussing how deals are negotiated and the potential earnings. They also discuss affiliate marketing and the importance of promoting products you actually use and recommend. Finally, they touch on the monetization potential of courses and information products, highlighting the value of online learning. I...
Aug 19, 2024•44 min•Ep. 170
In this conversation, Augie Johnston and Grant discuss the recent controversy surrounding MrBeast, the biggest creator on YouTube. They delve into the allegations of faking videos, promoting gambling to children, running illegal lotteries, and negligence in his challenges. The conversation explores the potential consequences for MrBeast, the role of the audience in supporting his content, and the ethical implications of his actions. They also discuss the need for MrBeast to pivot and find new wa...
Aug 12, 2024•34 min•Ep. 169
In this conversation, Augie Johnston and Grant Ball discuss the changes happening on YouTube and what actually matters in 2024. They cover topics such as the diminishing importance of subscribers, the role of click-through rate and watch time, the relevance of tags, the impact of shorts on channel growth, and the rise of ultra-long-form content like video podcasts. They emphasize the need for creators to focus on viewer satisfaction and the importance of building an engaged audience through cons...
Jul 29, 2024•37 min•Ep. 168
YouTube has introduced a new feature called A-B thumbnail testing, which allows creators to upload up to three thumbnails and test which one performs better. This feature helps creators determine the visual direction that works best for their brand. YouTube is also rolling out the For You shelf, which recommends videos from a channel that the algorithm thinks the viewer would be interested in. This feature enhances discoverability and improves user experience. Additionally, three tools for creat...
Jul 23, 2024•17 min•Ep. 167
YouTube is undergoing changes that benefit small channels and promote authenticity. The platform is now recommending videos from channels with low subscriber numbers, allowing them to gain traction and views. YouTube is trying to level the playing field and give new creators a chance to succeed. The evolution of YouTube has seen different eras, from the experimental era to the viral era, skit era, personality era, connection era, and now the sensational era. YouTube is also being viewed more on ...
Jul 18, 2024•34 min•Ep. 166
The conversation covers the process of starting a successful YouTube channel in 2024, including topics such as channel setup, content creation, consistency, community engagement, and the future of YouTube thumbnails. The discussion delves into the importance of personal space, motivation, and the why behind starting a YouTube channel. It also explores the significance of branding, community interaction, and the role of thumbnails in attracting viewers. Takeaways The importance of personal space ...
Jul 15, 2024•39 min•Ep. 165
In this conversation, Augie Johnston and Grant Ball discuss the 11 steps to succeed on YouTube and grow a channel. They cover topics such as coming up with a video topic, creating a clickable title, designing an eye-catching thumbnail, writing a hook, scripting the video, filming best practices, editing techniques, optimizing for search, promoting the video, engaging with the audience, and analyzing the performance of the video. In this conversation, Grant and Augie discuss various tips and stra...
Jul 11, 2024•49 min•Ep. 164
In this conversation, Augie Johnston and Grant Ball discuss the need for a YouTube strategy for businesses, using AlphaPaw as a case study. They analyze AlphaPaw's YouTube channel and identify mistakes in their videos. They then develop a comprehensive YouTube strategy for AlphaPaw, including an upload schedule and content strategy. They discuss the importance of utilizing YouTube Shorts and creating practical and useful videos. They also debate the use of calls to action in shorts and different...
Jul 08, 2024•43 min•Ep. 163
The latest trend on YouTube is building online communities, with creators leaning towards creating paid or free communities for their audience. Platforms like School, Facebook Groups, Discord, and Patreon are popular for building communities. However, starting a community from scratch can be challenging, and it requires engagement and moderation. YouTube's algorithm favors videos with high audience retention, which can make it difficult for niche or unconventional content to gain traction. YouTu...
Jul 04, 2024•41 min•Ep. 162
The conversation explores the strategies of creating YouTube drama and collaborating with other creators. It discusses the benefits and drawbacks of both approaches, highlighting the potential for growth and engagement. The importance of being justified and authentic in calling out others is emphasized. The conversation also touches on the power of controversy and polarity in attracting viewers. It concludes by suggesting that collaboration can be a more wholesome and steady approach to growing ...
Jul 01, 2024•31 min•Ep. 161
In this conversation, Augie and Grant discuss the role of a YouTube channel manager and the tasks they perform. They explain that a channel manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of a channel, including planning, strategy, video uploading, SEO optimization, and thumbnail creation. They emphasize the importance of hiring a channel manager to save time and focus on other aspects of content creation. The conversation also covers the auditing process, including content, channel, and co...
Jun 27, 2024•37 min•Ep. 160
This conversation discusses why being a video creator is the best business model in the world. It highlights the ability to turn passion into a business and create a living doing what you love. The example of Epic Gardening is used to demonstrate how a YouTube channel can generate a $30 million per year business. The conversation also explores the options of acquiring a business and partnering with companies to monetize content. The flexibility and freedom of being a content creator are emphasiz...
Jun 24, 2024•30 min•Ep. 159
In this conversation, Grant and Augie discuss the concept of indifference and its impact on productivity and creativity. They explore the ebb and flow of indifference, its benefits and drawbacks, and how it can be both a defense mechanism and a tool for creativity. They also delve into the pressure of putting oneself out there, the role of anxiety in motivation, and the importance of finding the right balance of pressure. Additionally, they discuss the mental game of YouTube, the value of consis...
Jun 20, 2024•39 min•Ep. 158
Most people think that YouTube videos are limited to talking head formats, but there are actually various video formats that can be used to create engaging content. In this conversation, Augie Johnston and Grant Ball discuss different video formats, including education and tutorial videos, storytelling videos, news videos, reaction videos, and video essays. They emphasize the importance of adding personality and entertainment value to educational content, the storytelling aspect of education, an...
Jun 17, 2024•49 min•Ep. 157
This episode explores the phenomenon of morning routine videos on YouTube and their impact on fulfillment and productivity in life. The hosts discuss the parody and criticism surrounding these videos, as well as their personal experiences with morning routines. They emphasize the importance of self-discipline and the challenges of working for oneself. The entertainment value of morning routine videos is acknowledged, but the hosts caution against comparing oneself to the exaggerated routines dep...
Jun 13, 2024•31 min•Ep. 156
This conversation explores the world of vlogging, discussing its definition, prominent vloggers, different styles, building a business as a vlogger, and the decline of vlogging. It also delves into the importance of camera presence, equipment, storytelling, editing, and creating engaging vlogs. The power of emotion, clickbait, finding interesting content, overcoming challenges, and embracing imperfection are also explored. Takeaways A vlog is a video blog that brings the audience along into an a...
Jun 10, 2024•33 min•Ep. 155
YouTube has undergone significant changes over the years, becoming more cookie-cutter and business-oriented. The 2017 Adpocalypse, where advertisers pulled out due to offensive content, forced creators to be more business-minded and find alternative revenue streams. The monetization policy became stricter, making it harder for edgy channels to make a living solely from ad revenue. Despite the stagnation in the current era, there is still hope for innovation and fresh ideas to break the mold. AI ...
Jun 06, 2024•42 min•Ep. 154
This conversation dives into the dark side of YouTube, focusing on the rise of IRL streamers and the impact of disrespectful and toxic content. It explores the ethical implications of live streaming, the boundaries of content creation, and the evolution of pranks on YouTube. The discussion also touches on the challenges of standing out in a competitive YouTube landscape and the impact of public opinion on behavior. The conversation delves into the dark side of YouTube, exploring topics such as c...
Jun 03, 2024•51 min•Ep. 153
YouTube’s landscape is constantly evolving, presenting both challenges and opportunities for creators. CoffeeZilla's rise to fame, Biaheza's decision to step back, and Caleb Hammer's unique approach to personal finance all highlight the diverse experiences and struggles within the YouTube community. In this episode, Augie and Grant discuss various YouTube channels that they find fascinating and share their thoughts on them. They talk about the Joe Rogan Experience YouTube channel, CoffeeZilla, a...
Nov 24, 2023•39 min•Ep. 152
Many creators struggle to find a consistent method for growing their channels and making them thrive. However, there are some channels that have figured out a winning formula and are achieving remarkable success. Grant and Augie discuss six YouTube channels that are thriving and provide valuable lessons for other creators. They highlight channels like Little Joel and Pineley, which have found success by focusing on reaction videos and creating content in a simple and clever way. They also discus...
Nov 21, 2023•53 min•Ep. 151
YouTube has become a prominent platform for content creators to share their videos with the world. However, many aspiring YouTubers find themselves struggling to gain traction and wonder if YouTube is even worth it anymore. In this episode, Augie and Grant discuss whether YouTube is still worth it for content creators. They address the common belief that YouTube is oversaturated and explain that while there is more competition, there are also more viewers and opportunities. They emphasize the im...
Nov 13, 2023•41 min•Ep. 150
As video creators, we often encounter a constant battle between appeasing the algorithm and staying true to our creative vision. We obsess over video length, niche selection, and viewer engagement, all in pursuing success on the platform. But in this quest for perfection, we often lose sight of what truly matters – taking action and creating content that aligns with our authentic selves. In this episode, Grant and Augie discuss the importance of finding a balance between creating content that ap...
Nov 09, 2023•46 min•Ep. 149
YouTube has been making moves to embrace the podcasting trend, with the introduction of a dedicated podcast tab on the platform. This indicates that YouTube sees the value in video podcasts and is positioning itself as a competitor to other podcasting platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. As YouTube continues to evolve, it's likely that video podcasts will become even more prominent on the platform. In this episode, Augie and Grant discuss the benefits and challenges of starting a video pod...
Nov 06, 2023•44 min•Ep. 148
In today's fast-paced world, balancing productivity with maintaining good mental health can be challenging. This is particularly true for content creators like YouTubers, who often experience the pressure to work continuously and achieve success. In this episode, Grant Ball and Augie Johnston discuss the importance of maintaining mental health while being productive. They emphasize the need for efficiency in work and personal life and share tips on how to stay accountable and motivated. They als...
Nov 02, 2023•48 min•Ep. 147
Myths are not only present in history classes but also in YouTube as well. Some of these myths directly affect how YouTubers produce content that’s why it’s essential to consider them. It's crucial to approach YouTube myths with a critical mindset and consider the unique dynamics of your channel. In this episode, Augie Johnston and Grant Ball discuss various YouTube myths and provide their insights on topics such as using AI scripts, targeting search vs. suggested videos, the importance of video...
Oct 30, 2023•47 min•Ep. 146
As the YouTube landscape continues to evolve, it is essential for creators to stay adaptable and open to new possibilities. By embracing new technologies, staying consistent, and finding their unique voice, creators can carve out their own path and make an impact in their respective communities. In this episode, you will learn about some inspiring YouTubers who have found success in different ways. Grant and Augie, highlight several creators who have unique approaches to content creation and hav...
Oct 26, 2023•33 min•Ep. 145
Challenges on YouTube have come a long way from the days of cinnamon challenges and marshmallow challenges. These early challenges were often seen as silly and lacked substance. However, they did capture the attention of viewers who enjoyed watching others attempt difficult tasks. The appeal of challenges lies in the satisfaction, inspiration, and relaxation that viewers experience by living vicariously through someone else's difficult journey. In this episode, Augie Johnston and Grant Ball disc...
Oct 23, 2023•41 min•Ep. 144
As content creators, we are constantly brainstorming new ideas for YouTube channels. The possibilities are endless, and with the right approach, a YouTube channel can become a lucrative business, generating six-figure revenue. In this article, we will explore some exciting channel ideas and discuss potential monetization strategies. In this episode, Augie and Grant discuss different YouTube channel ideas and how to turn them into successful 6-figure businesses. They cover topics such as investig...
Oct 21, 2023•44 min•Ep. 143
