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Twelve months ago, my YouTube channel was generating less than $100 a month. Fast forward to today, I am now a full-time content creator with a dedicated team of eight individuals, and my income is on an exponential growth trajectory. This article aims to provide an update on how I have transformed my YouTube channel, which has grown to 70,000 subscribers.
The difference in my channel's operation from a year ago is remarkable. Initially, it was just me managing everything, with one additional person assisting. Now, I have a team of eight, including my fiancée Kendra, who helps with filming, and a producer who aids in brainstorming video ideas and planning logistics. I also have two long-form editors, a short-form editor, a personal assistant (my sister), and my dad, who assists with research. Leveraging the support of those around you can significantly enhance your productivity.
In June 2022, I had just 5,000 subscribers, but by June 2023, that number skyrocketed to nearly 70,000. The growth in views is equally staggering; from 8,000 views per month in June 2022 to 278,000 views in June 2023, marking a 35-fold increase in just one year.
Analyzing my income, YouTube ad revenue in the first half of 2023 reached approximately $16,000, a significant increase compared to the same period in 2022. Additionally, I have received a surge of sponsorship offers, with $19,600 in signed sponsorship contracts expected to come in over the next few months. However, my success with affiliate links has been modest, generating between $50 and $200 monthly.
One of my most successful affiliate links is for Weeble, an investing app that offers new users up to 12 stocks worth up to $3,000. For each new user that signs up through my link, I earn a 30% commission. However, affiliate programs can change their terms unexpectedly, so it's essential to stay adaptable and ready to switch to different affiliate opportunities as needed.
To manage my content business effectively, I utilize various tools. Notion helps me organize everything related to my channel, while Google Drive provides secure storage for my footage. Canva is my go-to for creating graphics, and Epidemic Sound supplies the music for my videos. Recently, I transitioned from filming in my old bedroom to a dedicated office space, which has significantly improved my workflow.
My office, which spans over 300 square feet and costs around $700 a month, is designed for productivity. It features ample natural light and a dedicated area for filming. I have also set up a battery charging station for my equipment, making it easy to prepare for shoots. The office is organized with storage for video-making equipment and props, ensuring everything is easily accessible.
In terms of equipment, I primarily use a Sony ZV1 camera for filming, paired with a Rode NTG shotgun microphone for high-quality audio. I also have a backup microphone for added security. My setup includes various lighting options to ensure optimal video quality, and I have invested in a 4K color-accurate monitor for editing.
Having Kendra in the office has been beneficial for both of us. Working alongside a partner can enhance productivity and creativity, as we share ideas and collaborate on projects. Additionally, my producer Kai plays a crucial role in generating video concepts and ensuring that everything is organized for production.
Effective video planning is essential for success on YouTube. I utilize Notion to streamline the planning process, moving ideas from a concept bank to detailed preparation stages. Key factors that contribute to a video's success include click-through rate, audience retention, and the quality of the video concept itself. By carefully selecting filming locations and incorporating diverse characters, I aim to keep my content engaging.
This overview encapsulates my journey and the strategies that have contributed to my YouTube channel's growth. By leveraging a supportive team, utilizing effective tools, and focusing on quality content, I have been able to achieve significant milestones in my YouTube career. The insights shared here can serve as a guide for aspiring content creators looking to grow their channels.
Q: How did your YouTube channel grow in the past year?
A: In the past year, my YouTube channel grew from 5,000 subscribers to nearly 70,000, with views increasing from 8,000 per month to 278,000.
Q: What changes did you make to your team structure?
A: I expanded my team from just me and one assistant to a dedicated team of eight, including my fiancée, a producer, two long-form editors, a short-form editor, a personal assistant, and my dad for research.
Q: What is your revenue breakdown from YouTube?
A: In the first half of 2023, my YouTube ad revenue reached approximately $16,000, and I have $19,600 in signed sponsorship contracts expected soon.
Q: How do you manage your content creation process?
A: I use tools like Notion for organization, Google Drive for storage, Canva for graphics, and Epidemic Sound for music. I also transitioned to a dedicated office space to enhance my workflow.
Q: What equipment do you use for filming?
A: I primarily use a Sony ZV1 camera, a Rode NTG shotgun microphone, various lighting options, and a 4K color-accurate monitor for editing.
Q: What are your insights on affiliate marketing?
A: I have a successful affiliate link for Weeble, earning a 30% commission for each new user. However, it's important to stay adaptable as affiliate programs can change their terms unexpectedly.
Q: How do you create a productive workspace?
A: My office is designed for productivity, featuring natural light, a dedicated filming area, and organized storage for equipment and props.
Q: What role does collaboration play in your content creation?
A: Collaborating with my fiancée Kendra and my producer Kai enhances productivity and creativity, allowing us to share ideas and organize projects effectively.
Q: What factors contribute to a video's success on YouTube?
A: Key factors include click-through rate, audience retention, and the quality of the video concept. Careful planning and diverse filming locations also help keep content engaging.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring content creators?
A: Leverage a supportive team, utilize effective tools, and focus on producing quality content to achieve significant milestones in your YouTube career.