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Creating a Thriving Personal Brand w/ YouTube - A Journal & A Personal Guide.

StarVoyager

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Another idea but you'd have to get it out a month before the US elections...How the people in the UK view Trump/Biden or something along that vein. Not quite about money, except how it might impact people in the UK if either one wins.

OR you could do two...

Deep Dive into Donald Trump and how he went from reality TV billionaire to US Pres.

Deep Dive into Joe Biden and what he has or hasn't done in the 47 years he's been in office.

Again, depending on the spin you want to put on it.

I've considered doing these myself but every time I think about having to research any politician I throw up a little. So I decided to stay away.
 
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Another idea but you'd have to get it out a month before the US elections...How the people in the UK view Trump/Biden or something along that vein. Not quite about money, except how it might impact people in the UK if either one wins.

OR you could do two...

Deep Dive into Donald Trump and how he went from reality TV billionaire to US Pres.

Deep Dive into Joe Biden and what he has or hasn't done in the 47 years he's been in office.

Again, depending on the spin you want to put on it.

I've considered doing these myself but every time I think about having to research any politician I throw up a little. So I decided to stay away.


Political content is touchy on YouTube. If YTs own algos don't restrict your video because of keywords, you will get reported from people who are upset from your vids depending on your take/spin.

You can get great success doing political content, but it's a minefield.
 

Valier

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Another idea but you'd have to get it out a month before the US elections...How the people in the UK view Trump/Biden or something along that vein. Not quite about money, except how it might impact people in the UK if either one wins.

OR you could do two...

Deep Dive into Donald Trump and how he went from reality TV billionaire to US Pres.

Deep Dive into Joe Biden and what he has or hasn't done in the 47 years he's been in office.

Again, depending on the spin you want to put on it.

I've considered doing these myself but every time I think about having to research any politician I throw up a little. So I decided to stay away.

Ahh, politics is definitely something I'd like to steer away from for the most part on my channel.

Regardless of which side you lean, it always seems to divide people up.

Although I do think I could do either of those video ideas/both of them in a non-opinionated, matter-of-fact sort of way, I think I'd just rather opt out of doing a political video for the time being.
 

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Mutant

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As mentioned earlier in the thread, the Tyler1 video was far too different, and unlike any of the other videos that I had already built an audience around (first mistake). It was also a very niche topic, without as much interest around the subject as my other videos (second mistake).

I honestly don't see it as that different. The topic of Tyler1 may be niche, but the topic of transforming a personal brand seems to fit right into the business/entrepreneur/money stuff you've done previously - at least to me.


Also, I don't care that I hadn't heard of Tyler1. I think a lot of documentary fans* are used to watching docs where the exact subject is previously unknown to them - it's more about the stories that be drawn out of them. Netflix aren't currently pushing me a documentary on really fast Rubik's Cubers because they think I'm one of millions upon millions of Rubik's Cube fans who are going to race to see their favourite speed cubers on screen. To me your trailer demonstrated there was something (applicable to my interest in business) to be learned from Tyler1's story. And I did indeed learn!

I also wonder if any loss in initial rush of numbers is to do with the length - whereas some of your videos I've clicked straight into from the link, this one instead I added to my mental watch list for later.

I haven't watched it because I view the material as different from just some standard video.

It's not something I watch on my phone or sit at my desk to watch, it's more like I Airplay it to my Big screen, sit on the couch, and grab a bag of popcorn...

Like MJ, it was switched in my mind from "a quick youtube video" to "something I'd watch during a time when I would normally settle down to watch a Netflix documentary" so it took me a moment to get around to.


*to be fair, your YouTube probably has more people there for the exact subjects you're covering than their general love of documentaries - I just happen to be both.
 

stefanoesposito

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Let's get this started with a basic introduction.

Hi, I'm James. 19 y/o from the UK, chose not to go university since there wasn't any subject I wanted to study that would suit my direction in life. The big goal is to be semi-retired by 30, but that's okay if I don't get there, I'm focusing on the process and journey above all else.

I recently started up my new business which if you are a FLF INSIDERS, you can find my thread here:

So then, what's this about a personal brand & a YouTube channel?
I came to a realisation that I wish I had come to a few years back: a personal brand is an incredibly powerful thing. Especially in business, and especially if you are trying to go fastlane.

With just 100 loyal fans you can do so much to promote your other side hustles, and/or monetise that audience.

This realisation drove me to conclude that I wanted to start building up my own personal brand - right now, with no hesitation, and do my absolute best to get this thing up and running because let's all be clear here: the odds are not in my favour. There are so many channels out there, that it's damn near impossible to be seen amongst the crowd...
or is it?

A Guide as well as Documentation

The purpose of this thread is to not only document my process and journey, but also provide a guide for what is working/isn't working and how you can learn from whatever mistakes I make.

Provide value above all else, as always.

Keeping it Honest and Real
Like in my INSIDERS thread, I want to be entirely transparent with everyone and keep it as real & as honest as I can.

If one day I decide to just quit the whole thing I will document it on here. I'm in this till I either succeed, pivot, or quit, and you'll have a clear picture on where this process will take me, and where I may have gone wrong/gone right.

What's Been Done So Far...
I already have my channel up and running, and as a matter of fact, you can check out my first video here:
View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xg6CGNoynDI


How the First Video Went.
Keeping up with the theme of transparency: I was very nervous when recording and releasing this video.

I've done a lot of acting throughout my childhood - teenage years, and making this video was more nerve wrecking to me than any audition that I've done in the past. But this is the first barrier that people will face if you're trying to make it on this platform: THE FEAR OF POSTING YOUR FIRST VIDEO.

Once I posted that video, I felt a slight sense of relief. I sent a few messages out to some close friends who I had told I was starting this channel up, and they went on to watch it. And a few of them shared the video on their Instagram stories.

Let me be clear here: I was too nervous to post this video on my social media. That's why I just DM'd some friends, in the hopes that I can land maybe 80 views on the video to get me started off.

But once some of these friends posted it to their story something amazing happened: other people started sharing it on their story. Some of these people were friends, but there were also some that I hadn't spoken to or seen in a while that shared it. I even had some really kind messages about how they found the video really helpful and well done.

I really didn't think it was a great video at first. I thought it was bad, and kinda boring because the nerves really stopped me from bringing the energy to the screen that I usually could do with acting. My only intention was to post the first video no matter how nervous I felt about it.

After I felt that positive feedback, I finally made the leap and posted it to my own socials. In total the video sits at around 260 views, 32 likes, and 8 comments. I was more than impressed by that as a debut video - I genuinely didn't think it would surpass 100. I earned about 35 subscribers in total from that video, and a few new followers on my Instagram.

The Goals.
My goal isn't really to be 'internet famous' or anything like that. It's simply to get a personal brand started up, have my name put out there, share some genuine advice from someone who is passionate about entrepreneurship, and self development (no 'woo-woo' selling my $1500+ course shit), and see where it goes.

If you're looking for some specific targeted goals, here's my main objective for the year:
Reach 1,000 subscribers by 2021.

That's all. For now. The reason why I say this is that the subscriber count is really just a vanity metric. I'm more interested in improving things like watch time, and Click-Through-Rate (CTR) - y'know, the metrics that actually count. But until I have some data from my own videos to work off, I can't set those targets as of right now.

My aim is to post once a week. Although it may be once every two weeks every so often. Truth is, I'm balancing three things here: the channel is one thing, the full time job is another, and my other side hustle which I've been working super hard on is the third. Ideally, the latter two are working hand-in-hand, but that doesn't deviate from the fact that my full time job as an estate agent has some ungodly hours that can really eat into free time.

But again, all will be documented here.

Conclusion
That's about it for now.

If you have any questions, feel free to ask me them.

And most importantly: ALL feedback is appreciated, the good, the bad, the ugly. All of it.

Have a wonderful weekend folks
Dear @Valier, thank you for sharing your YouTube journey with us!

You have a unique talent, you are a great Documentary FilmMaker, and your skill is truly out of the ordinary!
In addition, you also demonstrate a profound maturity in the way you treat the themes you have chosen, and this aspect is not at all obvious given that you are only 19 years old! Chapeau!

As for the YT algorithm, in my opinion you don't have to worry too much, you have shown a lot in these months and you have a fantastic fanbase!

Anyway, I want to make 2 considerations about your proceeding.

# 1 - I believe that the common thread that unites your 3 most successful videos is to dispel myths and stereotypes. I believe you need to focus your channel on this angle.

Here are the 3 myths you debunked:

Fake gurus: "As I progress through this guru's upselling program I will become rich"

Self help: "With the next book / seminar I will get enlightened / become realized / become peaceful, etc."

Money: "To get rich I have to get a good job and work hard"

# 2 - As for a future paid course, in my opinion, in addition to a course on growth on YouTube, you should develop an elaborate course, a Masterclass-like top class course on becoming documentary filmmakers.

That's what you are, and after viewing your videos, I imagine the perceived value of this course is no less than $2,000
The course program could contain all aspects "from zero to hero":
- Research
- Scripting
- Filming
- How to's
- etc
And finally also a chapter on SEO with a particular focus on YouTube. Here you could refer to the other course entirely dedicated on YouTube growth.

I've been watching videos on YT for quite a few years now, and I really don't remember seeing videos that match your quality!

Congratulations again and continue with your work!

P.S .: At the end of June I opened Songwryte, a YouTube channel on Songwriting tips and techniques, it was something I've wanted to do for years, and I would be super happy if I only could get even one tenth of your success! :p
 

Valier

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Dear @Valier, thank you for sharing your YouTube journey with us!

You have a unique talent, you are a great Documentary FilmMaker, and your skill is truly out of the ordinary!
In addition, you also demonstrate a profound maturity in the way you treat the themes you have chosen, and this aspect is not at all obvious given that you are only 19 years old! Chapeau!

As for the YT algorithm, in my opinion you don't have to worry too much, you have shown a lot in these months and you have a fantastic fanbase!

Anyway, I want to make 2 considerations about your proceeding.

# 1 - I believe that the common thread that unites your 3 most successful videos is to dispel myths and stereotypes. I believe you need to focus your channel on this angle.

Here are the 3 myths you debunked:

Fake gurus: "As I progress through this guru's upselling program I will become rich"

Self help: "With the next book / seminar I will get enlightened / become realized / become peaceful, etc."

Money: "To get rich I have to get a good job and work hard"

# 2 - As for a future paid course, in my opinion, in addition to a course on growth on YouTube, you should develop an elaborate course, a Masterclass-like top class course on becoming documentary filmmakers.

That's what you are, and after viewing your videos, I imagine the perceived value of this course is no less than $2,000
The course program could contain all aspects "from zero to hero":
- Research
- Scripting
- Filming
- How to's
- etc
And finally also a chapter on SEO with a particular focus on YouTube. Here you could refer to the other course entirely dedicated on YouTube growth.

I've been watching videos on YT for quite a few years now, and I really don't remember seeing videos that match your quality!

Congratulations again and continue with your work!

P.S .: At the end of June I opened Songwryte, a YouTube channel on Songwriting tips and techniques, it was something I've wanted to do for years, and I would be super happy if I only could get even one tenth of your success! :p

Thanks for these suggestions and the kind words, friend!

# 1 - I believe that the common thread that unites your 3 most successful videos is to dispel myths and stereotypes. I believe you need to focus your channel on this angle.

This is something that I've come to realise as well, and I think it may be the best direction for the channel too.

# 2 - As for a future paid course, in my opinion, in addition to a course on growth on YouTube, you should develop an elaborate course, a Masterclass-like top class course on becoming documentary filmmakers.

This is a great idea! Although I wouldn't consider myself a "documentary filmmaker" per-say, or at least nowhere near a qualified one.

I think my knowledge and skills translate into being able to teach video editing, storytelling, narration, etc which can all be combined into a single course.

Although I wouldn't ever price it at anything in the thousands. In my opinion that seems excessive, and is another reason for why I dislike "fake gurus", because charging thousands for an info product when plenty of information can be accessed online for cheaper doesn't feel right for me.

I've always seen the benefit of a course as being organised information coming from one source that has done the research and has the skills to condense and deliver that knowledge in a single package. To me that could be worth hundreds, but steering in the thousands range wouldn't make me comfortable.
 
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Peter Kay

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If you're looking for some specific targeted goals, here's my main objective for the year:
Reach 1,000 subscribers by 2021.
I just read the entire thread from Page 1 to Page 10, your journey is mindblowing!!

Your videos "The Truth About Money" and "The Rise Of fake Gurus'' severally appeared to my YT as recommended but it took me a couple of days to click on one.

The day i did click on the "The Truth about money" video, i watched every single video that was on your channel. At that time of watching your videos you were of a few thousands of subs I saw your channel blow up with subs in just a few days. (i saw this happen because I rewatched your videos times haha).
Landing on this thread here and realizing that your initial set goal was 1,000 subs by 2021 but you surpassed it more 370 times is extremely mindblowing.

Your journey here is extremely fascinating and inspiring. Thank you for being an inspiration to many here. Keep up the great things

Cheers to an incredible journey keep moving.
 

Fox

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@Valier any issues with copyrighted content so far?

34885

I made a video showing some of the "Wolf of Wall Street" and it got flagged for using content from the film. It is just a few parts only around 4-5 seconds each.

I can dispute it but it requires you clicking a box that says your whole channel can be removed (possibly) if the dispute is incorrect (from my side).

Any thoughts/experience with this?

It is quite annoying since it just took off and was getting over 10,000 views a month.

I don't know how these movie review channels get away with it - maybe they get direct permission?
 

Valier

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@Valier any issues with copyrighted content so far?

View attachment 34885

I made a video showing some of the "Wolf of Wall Street" and it got flagged for using content from the film. It is just a few parts only around 4-5 seconds each.

I can dispute it but it requires you clicking a box that says your whole channel can be removed (possibly) if the dispute is incorrect (from my side).

Any thoughts/experience with this?

It is quite annoying since it just took off and was getting over 10,000 views a month.

I don't know how these movie review channels get away with it - maybe they get direct permission?

Still no issues with copyright so far (although I'm steering away from using movie scenes in future videos).

It may be helpful if you send me a link to the video so I can gather more context on how it was used.

From what you've described, it seems like fair use to me. YouTube's algorithm has most likely detected the scene because there has been 0 alterations to the audio and video, and consequently flagged it since it cannot tell whether it was done in fair use or not.
 
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Fox

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Still no issues with copyright so far (although I'm steering away from using movie scenes in future videos).

It may be helpful if you send me a link to the video so I can gather more context on how it was used.

From what you've described, it seems like fair use to me. YouTube's algorithm has most likely detected the scene because there has been 0 alterations to the audio and video, and consequently flagged it since it cannot tell whether it was done in fair use or not.

It might not work in your region atm...
View: https://youtu.be/Ep-Tna3wU6c


You think dispute it?
 

Valier

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It might not work in your region atm...
View: https://youtu.be/Ep-Tna3wU6c


You think dispute it?

I personally would. I really don't think YouTube will take down your channel if you're not given the benefit of the doubt.

Unfortunately I can't see the video myself, but it may be worth having a look online to double-check that it does comply with fair use laws.
 

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Congrats on your success :smile:

Maybe you're not using anymore, but just for your information, I saw quidemy.com is not loading.
 
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stefanoesposito

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I think my knowledge and skills translate into being able to teach video editing, storytelling, narration, etc which can all be combined into a single course.

You could teach how people can get your same results with the same means you have, or had when you started.

I understand that being behind a camera and being the director is something different, and BTW if you'd learn that too… well, you could make actual movies James! You HAVE it, man! Keep it on!

P.S.: And if, by the time you become a real director, you need songs or soundtracks, keep me in mind! :cool::p
 
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khaled.

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Still no issues with copyright so far (although I'm steering away from using movie scenes in future videos).

It may be helpful if you send me a link to the video so I can gather more context on how it was used.

From what you've described, it seems like fair use to me. YouTube's algorithm has most likely detected the scene because there has been 0 alterations to the audio and video, and consequently flagged it since it cannot tell whether it was done in fair use or not.
Hey James!

You're doing amazing man, keep it up. I've been watching your videos for a few months now and just wanted to ask where did you get these movie clips from?

Is there a specific site you used that provides them and how was the editing process for them like? Did you have to listen to your script then add the scenes one at a time or what exactly?

Been wanting to do the same myself for quite a long time and I'm starting to take action on it now, thanks in advance :D
 

Valier

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Hey James!

You're doing amazing man, keep it up. I've been watching your videos for a few months now and just wanted to ask where did you get these movie clips from?

Is there a specific site you used that provides them and how was the editing process for them like? Did you have to listen to your script then add the scenes one at a time or what exactly?

Been wanting to do the same myself for quite a long time and I'm starting to take action on it now, thanks in advance :D

Glad you've been enjoying them Khaled!

When it comes to movie clips, I've primarily just been downloading scenes from YouTube. You just want to make sure you're getting a HQ version of those scenes.

When it comes to the actual editing process, I always write the script, film, and then read through the script and annotate what sort of scene I'm goiong for with certain lines.

For example, I might look at one sentence in the script and note beside it "celebration scene", which then leads me to using a scene from the Wolf of Wall Street.

With that being said though, I'm steering away from movie scenes and more into animations/creating my own visuals just because that's more creatively fulfilling to me at the moment.
 
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Hey Valier, I would definitely be interested into a paid course fo scripting your videos and the process of telling stories, something that I think has not been fully explored.

For example, Graham Stephan talks about SEO and making videos for a 5th grade audience but does not go into detail in his YT course. I think that's one of your main strenghts
 

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@Valier very nice as always :)
Top production quality!

Would you like to discuss the Hyperbolic Discounting problem?
Its multifaceted with alot of gray area and it may be worthy of a video on its own.
Not to mention the many ways in which Hyperbolic Discounting can be leveraged to your benefit.
 
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Well done James! This was my favourite video so far. The Quality, Content, Editing, Music, Effects, Storytelling were all insane! Super Inspiring :)

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9RJpIqD8MGg

Glad you enjoyed it! - I was honestly worried that people might not like this video, so it's quite a relief to see the good feedback it's received so far.

@Valier very nice as always :)
Top production quality!

Would you like to discuss the Hyperbolic Discounting problem?
Its multifaceted with alot of gray area and it may be worthy of a video on its own.
Not to mention the many ways in which Hyperbolic Discounting can be leveraged to your benefit.

Appreciate it, my friend

Would love to get your thoughts - I think cognitive biases are a great thing to be informed on, and I'm aiming to include more references to them in my videos, especially for the more investigative videos.

***

Also planning on making an update post at some point, but I'm quite inundated with things to do atm - one of which includes finding a video editor for the channel ;)
 

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@Valier
Guys like gary vee suggest quantity, and IMHO i have seen guys like you and others do well with scarcity.

Like i even unsubscribed gary because his videos are same and too repetitive.

What is the balance point?
 

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Appreciate it, my friend

Would love to get your thoughts - I think cognitive biases are a great thing to be informed on, and I'm aiming to include more references to them in my videos, especially for the more investigative videos.
So here is what I`m thinking.

Faster/sooner reward vs Later greater reward.

This concept is pretty clear.
We tend to accept the sooner/faster reward over the later one because of the bias.
Makes sense from an evolutionary standpoint.
Doesnt make much sense when you factor in patience.

HOWEVER
Intelligence is left out in both considerations IMO.
We are not static beings, we have the power to influence events through actions.
Consider the reward, no matter when received, as a tool.
Well, what can you use it for?
Is the reward a break? Entertainment? Food? Useless gadget?
The time interval matters when it comes to the reward.
A sooner reward, properly used, is better than a later reward which you get to use at a later stage if at all.
I think combinations between rewards and goals should be utilized.

A few examples of this concept:

1. Sweet stuff pre-workout. Just make sure that its protein rich and tasty.
2. Morning coffee ritual. Stress yourself with some toxins for an easier time waking up and getting into the day.
We all know that caffeine is a toxin, doesnt mean that it doesnt feel like a reward though.
3. Want a gadget? New camera, work tools, GPS, what have you.
Great, find a need and a way to get paid for it, reward yourself with it, go fulfill the need and then you have the gadget left over.
Thats how I got a nice Canon camera for doing a photoshoot (amateur, but I got some PS skills which saved me) of handmade stuff, bracelets, earings, hand creams etc.

My point is that some rewards are better taken sooner and then turned to your benefit.
 
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Glad you enjoyed it! - I was honestly worried that people might not like this video, so it's quite a relief to see the good feedback it's received so far.



Appreciate it, my friend

Would love to get your thoughts - I think cognitive biases are a great thing to be informed on, and I'm aiming to include more references to them in my videos, especially for the more investigative videos.

***

Also planning on making an update post at some point, but I'm quite inundated with things to do atm - one of which includes finding a video editor for the channel ;)
Saw the last video, man... Better and better! Keep it on James!
 

Andy Black

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stefanoesposito

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@Valier
Guys like gary vee suggest quantity, and IMHO i have seen guys like you and others do well with scarcity.

Like i even unsubscribed gary because his videos are same and too repetitive.

What is the balance point?
I think common sense it's key here: if you have nothing to say it's better to wait, do more research, etc.
Contents, juicy contents, are more important than a useless consistency ;)
 

Valier

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Update 12. That’s a Wrap!

Well, it’s been a little while (and 2 videos) since the last update – for which I apologise for, but things have been super busy as of recently.

Thankfully with the release of my last video, I’m able to take a step back for a Christmas break and reflect on everything that has happened this year with the channel, and what a wild ride it’s been. As well as a run down on the finances of the channel – which I’m sure you’re all super interested in finding out ;)

But first: we hit a huge milestone!!!
130708113_438378623998315_3153691850475739917_n(1).jpg

Which I guess brings us to the first thing I wanted to talk about:

My goals when I started this thread.

***​

REFLECTION ON MY GOALS FOR THE YEAR.
Here's what I posted on the 31st of January, 4 days after posting my first video to the channel:

Valier said:
The Goals.
My goal isn't really to be 'internet famous' or anything like that. It's simply to get a personal brand started up, have my name put out there, share some genuine advice from someone who is passionate about entrepreneurship, and self development (no 'woo-woo' selling my $1500+ course shit), and see where it goes.

If you're looking for some specific targeted goals, here's my main objective for the year:
Reach 1,000 subscribers by 2021.
Click to expand...

I think we can safely say we've ticked off that 1k milestone ahahaha.

But I think that's an important thing to note: I was in this for the long run, and I still am.

My fear is that someone might look at how quickly things have progressed over the second half of this year for my channel and think that this is how they should approach something like YouTube. Please don't. This is a long-term game which 100% requires consistency and the willingness to accept you may not make any strides during your first 1 - 2 years doing this. The Same thing applies to any sort of venture.

Another point: much of my goals and visions have changed.

The overarching goal remains the same:
Valier said:
The big goal is to be semi-retired by 30, but that's okay if I don't get there, I'm focusing on the process and journey above all else.

But the vision for how I'm getting there has shifted entirely.

I began this channel initially thinking it would act as a way to indirectly promote Quidemy (the online financial education platform I created just at the end of 2019, but the channel swiftly turned into my main hustle after about 5 videos in, and Quidemy was abandoned for the most part.

I also never realised just how important my creative background would be to achieving what I have at the moment. I mistakenly had separated my creative side and entrepreneurial side when first getting into all of this, and that was very silly. I realise now: my creative side mixed with an understanding of entrepreneurship is what's going to get me to my goals faster than I could have imagined.

Which brings us to...

***​

EARNINGS FOR THE YEAR (and how it has affected me).
Let me make it clear that this still blows my mind.

I started this year off working briefly as an estate agent with a base salary between £11 - 15k. So to see where we've ended up is just insane to me.

It reminds me just how important it is to: 1) find something with huge scale/magnitude. And 2) separate yourself from the "hours worked = money earned" equation as soon as possible.

So here is the run down (as of the 23rd December) - I've rounded these figures down a little for simplicity:

Earnings from YT Ad Revenue: £114,900
Earnings from Sponsors: £6,300 (Skillshare)
Earnings from Affiliate Stuff: £720 (Amazon links in description for gear used, books read, and others)
Earnings from Patreon: £2,500
TOTAL: £124,420

This is all revenue, of course.

Granted, my overheads are incredibly low, and most of my spending is done for the sake of write-offs.

But there we have it.

Calling it surreal is an understatement. I get moments of imposter syndrome as well, because this has come about in a fairly short period of time from when the channel begun, I almost feel as though I don't "deserve" it. But in many ways, this makes me want to work harder to shift those thoughts into "of course I deserve it".

In many ways, this money hasn't changed much. I still live with my parents, and I've decided I'm going to be staying here for 1-2 years longer because I still have that excuse at my age ;) and it saves a ton of money.

In many other ways, however, this money relieves a lot of stress for me. Whether it's just a matter of needing to replace a broken piece of equipment, or paying for a subscription service needed to find stock footage/templates, I no longer have to really feel the burden of the price tag.

That feeling is incredible.

I've always been frugal, and my expenses haven't really changed at all from what they were at the beginning of the year, but it's the security of having that money coming in that is really what gets to me.

***​

Future Goals.
With all this being said - this next year is going to be an even bigger one with lots of developments for the channel, and overall business.

I'm in a bit of a debate when it comes to hiring a video editor for the main channel - at the moment, I think I'm going to be the sole editor of the main channel, but will have my Patreon videos outsourced.

I've started getting much faster at editing videos - especially with this recent video which at a length of 27 minutes I managed to get done inside a month.

This may be subject to change, it just depends on how the search for an editor goes (I've recently sent out a few applications and currently looking over the applicants).

But it's also important that I continue improving as an editor because I aim to release a video editing course at some point next year, and I really want this course to deliver in value. Taking someone from the basics of video editing on Premiere and After Effects, to being able to create in-depth visuals and motion graphics for anything that they want to.

I know the market for this course is huge right now, with constant comments and DM's asking how I edit, or whether I'm going to drop on a course on it. And I think I'm near the level where I can truly deliver on something.

Still deciding what to price it as. I'm thinking $250 to start with. I don't want to exceed anything in the thousands because I couldn't possibly justify that price, especially given my criticisms of other "business gurus" charging insane amounts of money for their courses along with unethical marketing. It would just seem really off-brand for me to do so.

I'm also going to continue developing and building my Patreon up, as it's really starting to kick off now that I've begun doing monthly editing tutorials (which is helping me build my confidence to teach this stuff as well as giving me bonus content to include in the full course). By the end of the year I'm hoping to get my Patreon to a solid £5k/month mark. It may be tough, but I'm sure that we can hit it.

In terms of earnings, I'm going to be pushing for the £250,000 in revenue. If we can get an editing course out, and maintain the current growth of the channel - this goal should be very reachable. Time will tell.

And of course, at the end of the day: the content is what reigns supreme, and it's what I will continue to be getting better at. Turning these videos into a real experience for people. Or, in essence: a productocracy.

***
Conclusion.
That pretty much wraps it up for this year, and what a year it's been - for so many reasons.

At this point, I really have no clue what the future might hold because God or whoever knows that this was not how I anticipated this year to have ended. But I have no complaints.

I'm still blessed with young age, and a ton of energy, and I intend to make use of both!!

Oh, and I'm going to be completely renovating my room over the Christmas holidays, turning it into an actual studio/office space - so keep an eye out for that ;)

Thank you all who have followed this thread, and I really hope you've gained some sort of value, or inspiration from it - if so, then my job with this thread has been done.

Till the next time.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!!

***​
 

fastlanedoll

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Holy.. your revenue is more than what I earned at my last job.
Thankfully, I've upgraded to this one... lol.

Congrats!
 
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MJ DeMarco

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Earnings from YT Ad Revenue: £114,900
Earnings from Sponsors: £6,300 (Skillshare)
Earnings from Affiliate Stuff: £720 (Amazon links in description for gear used, books read, and others)
Earnings from Patreon: £2,500
TOTAL: £124,420

Damn! For those not familar with GPB, that's around $170,000 USD.

You still live with the Ps... what have your parents said about your venture? Are you earning more than them?
 

Andy Black

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Update 12. That’s a Wrap!

Well, it’s been a little while (and 2 videos) since the last update – for which I apologise for, but things have been super busy as of recently.

Thankfully with the release of my last video, I’m able to take a step back for a Christmas break and reflect on everything that has happened this year with the channel, and what a wild ride it’s been. As well as a run down on the finances of the channel – which I’m sure you’re all super interested in finding out ;)

But first: we hit a huge milestone!!!
View attachment 36091

Which I guess brings us to the first thing I wanted to talk about:

My goals when I started this thread.

***​

REFLECTION ON MY GOALS FOR THE YEAR.
Here's what I posted on the 31st of January, 4 days after posting my first video to the channel:



I think we can safely say we've ticked off that 1k milestone ahahaha.

But I think that's an important thing to note: I was in this for the long run, and I still am.

My fear is that someone might look at how quickly things have progressed over the second half of this year for my channel and think that this is how they should approach something like YouTube. Please don't. This is a long-term game which 100% requires consistency and the willingness to accept you may not make any strides during your first 1 - 2 years doing this. The Same thing applies to any sort of venture.

Another point: much of my goals and visions have changed.

The overarching goal remains the same:


But the vision for how I'm getting there has shifted entirely.

I began this channel initially thinking it would act as a way to indirectly promote Quidemy (the online financial education platform I created just at the end of 2019, but the channel swiftly turned into my main hustle after about 5 videos in, and Quidemy was abandoned for the most part.

I also never realised just how important my creative background would be to achieving what I have at the moment. I mistakenly had separated my creative side and entrepreneurial side when first getting into all of this, and that was very silly. I realise now: my creative side mixed with an understanding of entrepreneurship is what's going to get me to my goals faster than I could have imagined.

Which brings us to...

***​

EARNINGS FOR THE YEAR (and how it has affected me).
Let me make it clear that this still blows my mind.

I started this year off working briefly as an estate agent with a base salary between £11 - 15k. So to see where we've ended up is just insane to me.

It reminds me just how important it is to: 1) find something with huge scale/magnitude. And 2) separate yourself from the "hours worked = money earned" equation as soon as possible.

So here is the run down (as of the 23rd December) - I've rounded these figures down a little for simplicity:

Earnings from YT Ad Revenue: £114,900
Earnings from Sponsors: £6,300 (Skillshare)
Earnings from Affiliate Stuff: £720 (Amazon links in description for gear used, books read, and others)
Earnings from Patreon: £2,500
TOTAL: £124,420

This is all revenue, of course.

Granted, my overheads are incredibly low, and most of my spending is done for the sake of write-offs.

But there we have it.

Calling it surreal is an understatement. I get moments of imposter syndrome as well, because this has come about in a fairly short period of time from when the channel begun, I almost feel as though I don't "deserve" it. But in many ways, this makes me want to work harder to shift those thoughts into "of course I deserve it".

In many ways, this money hasn't changed much. I still live with my parents, and I've decided I'm going to be staying here for 1-2 years longer because I still have that excuse at my age ;) and it saves a ton of money.

In many other ways, however, this money relieves a lot of stress for me. Whether it's just a matter of needing to replace a broken piece of equipment, or paying for a subscription service needed to find stock footage/templates, I no longer have to really feel the burden of the price tag.

That feeling is incredible.

I've always been frugal, and my expenses haven't really changed at all from what they were at the beginning of the year, but it's the security of having that money coming in that is really what gets to me.

***​

Future Goals.
With all this being said - this next year is going to be an even bigger one with lots of developments for the channel, and overall business.

I'm in a bit of a debate when it comes to hiring a video editor for the main channel - at the moment, I think I'm going to be the sole editor of the main channel, but will have my Patreon videos outsourced.

I've started getting much faster at editing videos - especially with this recent video which at a length of 27 minutes I managed to get done inside a month.

This may be subject to change, it just depends on how the search for an editor goes (I've recently sent out a few applications and currently looking over the applicants).

But it's also important that I continue improving as an editor because I aim to release a video editing course at some point next year, and I really want this course to deliver in value. Taking someone from the basics of video editing on Premiere and After Effects, to being able to create in-depth visuals and motion graphics for anything that they want to.

I know the market for this course is huge right now, with constant comments and DM's asking how I edit, or whether I'm going to drop on a course on it. And I think I'm near the level where I can truly deliver on something.

Still deciding what to price it as. I'm thinking $250 to start with. I don't want to exceed anything in the thousands because I couldn't possibly justify that price, especially given my criticisms of other "business gurus" charging insane amounts of money for their courses along with unethical marketing. It would just seem really off-brand for me to do so.

I'm also going to continue developing and building my Patreon up, as it's really starting to kick off now that I've begun doing monthly editing tutorials (which is helping me build my confidence to teach this stuff as well as giving me bonus content to include in the full course). By the end of the year I'm hoping to get my Patreon to a solid £5k/month mark. It may be tough, but I'm sure that we can hit it.

In terms of earnings, I'm going to be pushing for the £250,000 in revenue. If we can get an editing course out, and maintain the current growth of the channel - this goal should be very reachable. Time will tell.

And of course, at the end of the day: the content is what reigns supreme, and it's what I will continue to be getting better at. Turning these videos into a real experience for people. Or, in essence: a productocracy.

***
Conclusion.
That pretty much wraps it up for this year, and what a year it's been - for so many reasons.

At this point, I really have no clue what the future might hold because God or whoever knows that this was not how I anticipated this year to have ended. But I have no complaints.

I'm still blessed with young age, and a ton of energy, and I intend to make use of both!!

Oh, and I'm going to be completely renovating my room over the Christmas holidays, turning it into an actual studio/office space - so keep an eye out for that ;)

Thank you all who have followed this thread, and I really hope you've gained some sort of value, or inspiration from it - if so, then my job with this thread has been done.

Till the next time.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!!

***​
Well done James. Thanks for sharing your journey with us.

I’m also interested in how your parents have reacted.
 

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