The Think Media Podcast

Explore the rapid changes in YouTube's landscape and why mastering video packaging is crucial for success. Discover how AI is reshaping content creation, enabling new creators while separating the winners from dabblers. Learn why subscribers no longer guarantee views and what metrics truly matter for your business. Hear inspiring case studies illustrating how focused strategies and a strong personal brand can drive income, even when views are low. Stay ahead of the competition with effective content and clear positioning!

Join Benji Travis, a seasoned vlogger and creator with over 17 years of experience, as he reveals the resurgence of vlogging in a changing landscape. Vlogging is back, driven by a shift towards TV-style content on YouTube. Benji discusses the appeal of longer episodes, the importance of niche topics, and the psychological effects of short-form content. He emphasizes authenticity over polish and shares his 'three T's' strategy for successful vlogging. Tune in for practical steps to elevate your content game!

Discover how to launch a YouTube channel in 2026 with actionable tips! Learn the importance of clarity in audience and goals, alongside a practical startup plan. Emphasize uploads over views for building skills and embrace competition as an opportunity. Understand the balance between video quality and channel optimization, while fostering community through genuine engagement. Don't shy away from taking risks and remember that perseverance pays off—success often comes after numerous uploads. Monetize wisely and find time to create by cutting distractions!

Discover how small YouTube channels can realistically make $50 a day. The hosts break down the math behind RPM and necessary views for earnings. Learn the power of affiliate commissions and how a few sales can boost your income. They delve into the best niches for ad revenue and how audience demographics can raise earning potential. Plus, find out tips for creating content that aligns with viewer purchase intent, enhancing conversion rates. Get ready to unlock the secrets to YouTube profitability!

Dive into the 2026 YouTube strategy, where the hosts stress the importance of having a solid system before posting. Learn how to reverse engineer your channel for success while keeping your content fresh and relevant. Discover why most creators give up after just 22 uploads and the key to staying consistent. They also cover vital research techniques to find topics that rank and the significance of investing in audio. Plus, tips on optimizing your upload settings and reviewing analytics to refine your content creation rhythm.

Discover the 21 common mistakes on YouTube that can kill your views. Learn how effective thumbnails and compelling hooks can improve your click-through rates. The hosts emphasize the importance of concise calls-to-action and maintaining high energy while on camera. They discuss the value of planning videos to keep viewers engaged and the effectiveness of mixing short-form and long-form content. Pay attention to trending topics and create series to expand your audience. Finally, they stress the importance of consistency and focusing on viewer value.

Discover essential YouTube strategies needed for 2026! Learn about rising competition and how to pivot your content for better leads. A real-life case study examines a struggling physical therapy channel and the transformation through hands-on coaching. Uncover the importance of compelling titles and thumbnails to boost clicks. Explore the 3A framework for engaging hooks to keep viewers retained. Finally, diversify content to target different audience awareness levels for maximum impact!

YouTube views may be declining, but loyal audiences can still boost your income. Explore the post-pandemic shift towards niche content and the importance of having a few dedicated fans. Embrace an entrepreneurial mindset and diversify your revenue streams beyond ad income. Systems and strategy can replace chaotic efforts, leading to sustainable growth. Don't forget to own your audience through email and SMS lists, as this can significantly enhance your reach. Multi-platform expansion can serve as an insurance policy for your content.

Deanne Gustafson, a savvy product reviewer and affiliate marketing expert, shares her journey from journalism to creating a lucrative income through Amazon affiliations. She explains how new YouTubers can monetize their channels before hitting 1,000 subscribers. Deanne reveals how strategically placed affiliate links often outperform AdSense, and shares tips on product selection and creating engaging review videos. With her insights on seasonal trends and authenticity, she inspires small creators to seize opportunities and grow their income through effective affiliate marketing.

Discover how to stand out on YouTube in an AI-driven landscape! Personal branding and unique stories are key to gaining attention. Ignoring your personal touch risks being forgettable. Learn practical ways to show authenticity on camera. AI is not a magic fix and must be paired with clear strategies. Low-budget creators can succeed through consistency and vulnerability. Explore essential AI skills and tailored tools to elevate your content creation. Finally, adopt a media company mindset to truly thrive in the YouTube ecosystem.