
 The Think Media Podcast
 The Think Media Podcast 444: What's Actually Working on YouTube Right Now? (22 Strategies I Use)
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 Sep 11, 2025  Sean Cannell, CEO of Think Media and co-founder of Video Influencers, shares his decade-long journey in YouTube strategy. He dives into 22 actionable tips for creators, emphasizing the importance of authentic storytelling and captivating thumbnails to boost engagement. Cannell stresses the necessity of personal connections with audiences while balancing privacy. He highlights the role of AI in optimizing content and managing mental health amidst creative challenges, encouraging creators to stay persistent and innovate in the ever-evolving YouTube landscape. 
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Humble Weekly Starts
- Sean started in 2003 filming youth group videos on mini DV tapes and learning Premiere from CD-ROMs.
- His early weekly practice taught consistency and set the foundation for decades in video.
Competition Is For The Lazy
- Competition is highest for lazy content; a little extra effort lets you reach the top 10%.
- YouTube rewards clarity, strategy, and consistent value over mere volume.
Serve, Don't Self-Serve
- Selfish content gets skipped while service content gets shared; obsess over viewer value.
- Compress time by doing deep research and delivering distilled value in short videos.







