How to Grow a SUCCESSFUL YouTube Channel - Become a Full-time Content Creator

[@RobertoBlake]

🏆 GET THE FREE 12-WEEK CREATOR PLAYBOOK robertoblake.com/ytplaybook

[@nathananderson8720]

This is one of the channels that gave me the courage to start my KZbin channel 7 months ago about self development. Now I have 728 subs and > 200 hours of watch time. I know it’s not comparable with others but I’m still proud I started because I’ve been learning so many lessons that I could haven’t learned without getting started in the 1st place.

[@DavidRaleyLLC]

Hey Nathan! You just got one more from me! And I see you got over the 1k mark in the last month, so congrats! (Ignore my name, I’m going to change it again in a week and start from 0)

[@RAPINCITE]

That's pretty good, (for 7 months, I would be happy with that) my channel died in the butt. But I haven't really tried and I don't use click bait titles, i just title my vids how it how it is. The retention on my channel is very low, yt doesn't recommend me, no more. But I want to get another channel going channel 5, and see how that goes do it right from scratch. Do some better research. Because everyones work and content and views evolves after time on yt.

[@memo134]

It’s not that hard. Relax.

[@nathananderson8720]

@cyberpunkrainscapes Thank you for subscribing and for showing your support! I'm glad that I'm foolish enough to believe that I can actually start making money through my passions. I've never thought that I'd able to gain > 1K subs faster. I can't imagine how many opportunities could have been wasted if I didn't have courage to go after them. That includes having this channel, being in a management role, having the people who actually care about me for who I am, freelance gigs, being an ambassador in a creative community and now I'm also planning on honing my public speaking skills through joining a toastmaster club and these all happened this year. It started with writing them all down on a piece of paper. A paper that serves as a reminder for me to go after what I want even through hard times. I'm not bragging about my accomplishments but simply hoping that this message can also inspire others to believe in themselves.

[@nathananderson8720]

@memo134 it's not hard but it's also not easy but as long as you stay strong, you'll overcome so many barriers. I think what makes me strong is forcing myself to make tons of mistakes, learning from them, and strategizing how I will approach similar situations in the future so I don't make the same mistakes again. Knowing that making mistakes is just part of life gives me the courage to get out of my comfort zone many times because I will never learn something new if I'm so afraid of fucking up. In fact, I recently joined a toastmaster club. This weekend, I'll be in front of a small group of people to give my 1st speech on stage, which scares the hell out of me but that's ok. I know that fear is part of life but it's all about having the courage to overcome fears.

[@ROBBIEP]

I'm just hitting back on all the KZbin videos that auto played while I slept. i slept through this whole thing but trust my subconscious got me 👊

[@MikePhoTravelVlogs]

Lol same 😴 I just woke up to Roberto talking but it also was in my dream 💭

[@AmericanEnglishBrent]

1:06:02 yes! Trade schools. I teach high school. I’m encouraging many of my students to follow that path.

[@melotheproducer]

That "boredom" advice is straight wisdom. Thanks - I needed that. 🙏🏾

[@RobertoBlake]

Not a problem!!! 👊🏾👊🏾

[@TotemPoleNation]

Dude you are so much more than a KZbinr. The advice you are giving can go for any career or in life!

[@homestudioacademy]

Thanks for breaking it down using ACTUAL NUMBERS instead of just another one of those typical “inspirational speeches” to pursue KZbin that I’m sure we all heard before. Truly appreciate all the tips and your help Roberto!

[@RobertoBlake]

I think seeing the numbers is one of the most important things

[@naturenook23]

ন

[@naturenook23]

ন

[@naturenook23]

😅op😅😅😅😅😮😅😅😅. O ন্য😅😅।্য ্য্যধ

[@naturenook23]

😅op😅😅😅😅😮😅😅😅. O ন্য😅😅।্য ্য্যধ

[@Yayletesha]

Hi Roberto, Thanks for your transparency. I have been suffering from free YT growth overload. However I appreciate that you clarified when a course might be necessary and when it may not be required.

[@RobertoBlake]

I think it’s something people don’t talk about. The other problem is leaning everything in an order that makes sense. Books are good because of structure. So are courses. Cohorts can be good because it’s a 12 week course instead of open ended. The problem with free is often just random information with no continuity or consistency

[@TMITP]

My journey has just started. Crossed the 200 subscribers mark this morning!

[@ParanormalTalk]

My biggest challenge is I have no studio, I do my editing and recording out of my bedroom as I am currently sharing a place. So I have to hold back, and not talk too loud to disturb the others living here. I also don't have the space to properly setup multiple camera views, and my green screen barely fits behind me. I try working with what I have so that I can still put content out, but I'd love to have the kind of setup you have!

[@Life.Love.Locs.]

Believe me, that's how a lot of KZbinrs start out. You can get a cheap small mic to amplify your voice. You can use tools like Canva or Capcut to add fake backgrounds to your video (lots of videos on this on KZbin, it's easier than you think). Even a plain wall can work as a background, I did this for the longest time and my channel grew. You got this!

[@marlenelandstravels]

LMFAO that rant at the end, so true, double standard over here. People buy apple computer without thinking it is a scam but wont take a course to better themselves. I looove your channel, and I love how real you are and giving REALISTIC point of view! Keep it up my man

[@RobertoBlake]

Appreciate you

[@myusalocalcom]

What people define as scam is often emotional like a course consumed by the right person can provide success and value but to someone with the wrong mindset is doomed to failed.

[@lanitajohnson5106]

Thanks!

[@RobertoBlake]

Appreciate you!

[@raingodmusic]

Bro you're on one so glad this was on auto play. Woke up to this

[@RobertoBlake]

👊🏾👊🏾

[@Corrans]

When you spoke about success being boring...meaning repeatedly doing the same things that work, day in and day out...I felt that in my soul. It's SO true. You have to build something brick by brick and it gets boring..like brushing teeth daily. Very true. Your advice is spot on and very true. Very realistic and down to earth. I tried having a second channel BUT it wasn't sustainable from a time/effort/energy point of view.

[@RobertoBlake]

Focusing on what is and isn’t sustainable is something I think get overlooked

[@Corrans]

@RobertoBlake very true. You can hear your experience with being a creator when you talk.

[@aaronmeans8238]

I agree. This resonated with me as well! Great stuff!!

[@sizzleserveyum]

I am so grateful that you clarified the difference between a hobby YT Creator and YT Creator doing this to earn a living.

[@RobertoBlake]

Thanks! Yeah I thought it was important. I might cover it in an individual video on day soon.

[@mistigri4261]

Thanks for the stream and picking- up on my comment, that was unexpected.. I've only recently subscribed, and am really digging the depth and scope of your insights, love the "No BS" and authenticity of it too. It actually feels like "Shop talk" and not the usual "Pep talk".. Thanks again, for that ! One last thing, been looking at the thumbnails,.. Happy to see you still can get half a mil Subs while having minimal or mild YT faces,.. I for one welcome a tad of snobbery on YT ^^

[@RobertoBlake]

Appreciate you Misti, it was a good comment/question

[@AprilClayton]

I’ve learned more from you on how to get views by following your advice on thumbnails. Tony and Chelsea mentioned you in a video, and I’m so glad you share your knowledge.

[@RobertoBlake]

Thanks April! Was it a recent video?

[@AprilClayton]

@@RobertoBlake about 5 months old. kzbin.info/www/bejne/opKpkKWro9adkLc Video called I Cant Keep Up. 39 min 33 sec They mention your Twitter engagement.

[@AfricanMemoir]

Advice at 26:00 just hits on the point, just made me realise I have been consuming wrong advices all along I got intrested in KZbin

[@RobertoBlake]

All good! 👊🏾👊🏾

[@TheSessionCA]

Fireeee bro great vid

[@GinaLay]

Your advice is top notch. ❤ I could listen to you forever.

[@MadisonPhillipsOfficial]

You have provided nothing but gold and value. The thing that I love the most is that you are real and relatable. I love your channel been watching for years but first Comment plenty of liking. Need more like this!

[@comedianarocagui8]

👍🔔

[@RobertoBlake]

Appreciate you 🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@JCurtisMedia]

Made the pivot. Niching down and hopefully it works. I’m going in. Any advice is well received!

[@JCurtisMedia]

And appreciated!

[@patriciahairstylestv]

Thanks for sharing 😍

[@mrelmoresmusiclab]

And...I just gotta say Roberto...you dish out the truth in the purest form. I'm going to be doing this full-time guaranteed! Keep on crushing it my man. :)

[@RobertoBlake]

Appreciate you. I try. 🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@mrelmoresmusiclab]

@@RobertoBlake You are great my man. So...I did my first livestream last night. It went amazing. Over an hour long and I'm going to keep going with these. Do I need to move these over to the video section? It looks like I can leave them under "live." I just don't want to lose out on all the watch time. I'm at 756 subs in a few months, but I need to keep adjusting and analyzing to reach the 4K watch hours. I will get there no doubt. Thanks for everything. You rock!!

[@gunnar606]

I really like your advice Roberto. I am a very new channel, with only 5 actual videos of what I'm about. I have actually been working at this channel almost a year before I posted my first real video. My channel is a camping channel, but maybe more of a camping vlog channel. Right now, with my 5 videos, I have exceeded over 2000 watch hours and I have 273 Subscribers. My start date for monetization is November 21, 2022. I don't know if you are into a camping type channel. But in my opinion, your advice is good for most niches. I am taking this very seriously, with the hope of going fulltime. Thank you sir for sharing your knowledge with us! I do work a full time job, so it's it is a struggle getting out and doing videos. But hey, do it when I can! Thanks for everything Roberto! I also just yesterday had a company contact me to send me a product and do a review on it. That was pretty exciting, considering my channel is so small.

[@benp5424]

You're crushing it man. One thing I noticed is your thumbnails aren't the same quality as your content. You could really have a compelling photograph of the truck camping setup. Check out primal outdoors channel for some ideas

[@gunnar606]

@@benp5424 Thank you! Thanks for the input, I will definitely be working on my thumbnails.

[@HoaMmo-jr9dp]

Your videos are always on point where you highlight actual data.

[@fuzedavibe]

Amazing Video Roberto! 💎 Truly Appreciate!

[@kimblerogers328]

Thank you Roberto. You are sincerely appreciated. And I hop you FEEL appreciated too.

[@Smirk_Station]

Also double say every other line to double the length of the video. You earned a smirk by repeating 3 times + We like it. Repetition helps memory. ❤

[@ComicPower]

Roberto you are the man. I am stagnant at 4,500 subs and be at this for 6 years and i feel i should be way more successful so i am trying to follow your advice

[@queencancertarot]

I am definitely a better content creator due to your beautiful teachings Roberto!!! So would love to bounce more ideas off you or have you do a review of my channel or even pay for some consulting if you have availability! 💛

[@stevejoneswildwriter]

Love your content Roberto. Are you still uploading these as podcasts? I find I derive unique value when listening even when I watch the same content here! Weird but true...

[@growingthegoodlifenc]

Dude. This is money. I’ve been doing shorts to build subscribers, but I know I need to add long form for watch hours. I’m doing exactly what you suggest to map out my long-form strategy from the advanced analytics. Thank you!!

[@RobertoBlake]

You’re very welcome!

[@thatcoolnameDedoko]

Great advices! Thank you very much for the honesty.

[@rescuesandgooddeeds1849]

2:21:43 Thank you for actually dropping sound advice and gems instead of talking in circles about a bunch of generalized and vague nothingness lol. Love this ❤❤❤❤❤

[@TantrumKnows]

Peace brothaman...Your video really helped it's overwhelming I am a visual learner and the people around me ain't good at this..keep up the great work I subbed and look forward to seeing more videos

[@RobertoBlake]

Appreciate you

[@KhalidKhan-sp9yq]

Brilliant analysis and advice. It is an eyeopener really brother. Thank you so much

[@CreativeThinking52]

Awesome video. Thanks for sharing. Happy holidays!!🎅🎄👍👏

[@aalegalfocus]

Thank you, Roberto, for all your helpful advice!

[@leahag3798]

This video was so clear and helpful and valuable and really teaches you everything you're going to need at the theoretical level so that you can jump right in ahead of the game. Thank you so much!

[@RobertoBlake]

What would you want me to cover for the practical layer, besides video editing?

[@bananaislandfilms]

Hey! we met briefly at PodFest in Jan 2023. So cool to see you pop up here on my feed. Great content! I'm finally going hard on my channel and just got monetized. Looking forward to learning from your guidance. -Scott

[@Arlyndonnelly]

Roberto do you have a home studio tour? Would love to see your setup!

[@RobertoBlake]

I should do a tour

[@Arlyndonnelly]

@@RobertoBlake please do!

[@Muhluri]

I loved the rant about gaming channels! I’ve noted all that you’ve said

[@RobertoBlake]

At some point I’ll bring on a gaming channel or 2 with over 1 million subscribers

[@Nat-pt2vm]

Finally advice I can actually use. Thank you!!

[@veganlunchmom]

Great info!!! So helpful! I stopped posting on IG and I just want to focus on KZbin for awhile.

[@CreativeThinking52]

Awesome video. Thanks for sharing valuable information. Have a great day.❤🎉😊

[@fanan-benbrahim]

Thank you for everything, and I hope you will encourage this small channel that specializes in the art of Moroccan mountain heritage. Greetings to all

[@brettburnside1457]

Fountain of knowledge and strategy sir!

[@shanikacorb]

Thank you sooo much. This video is all 💎 💎 💎. I started my channel jan 3rd 2022. Took about 10 months to get 1000 subs and almost 13 months to reach the 4000 hours. Such a great journey of learning. I'm at over 200 videos now and each video I have been trying to get a little bit better. I want to make youtube a side hustle. I'm not just doing it for fun. Thank you for your honest advice and breaking things down for us new creators. My audience means the world to me. I look at my analytics now every day to remind myself what the viewers actually wanna see. You are right. Stick with what works. I'm only half way through your video but I know there will be loads more tips along the way.

[@DarkKnightDiary]

Thanks Roberto! Awesome livestream my man!

[@raquelfigueroa]

Thank you so very much for sharing all of these amazing TIPS

[@typicalbooks]

Yup. My version of broke was "I'm walking to this job interview because I want a pack of gum so I feel fresh and might get the job." It was gum or the bus.

[@RobertoBlake]

I remember those days!

[@JCurtisMedia]

Roberto when is your next Live? I want to be there for it!

[@RobertoBlake]

Probably tomorrow

[@JCurtisMedia]

@@RobertoBlake I’ll be there! I’m up 15 new subscribers and it feels good to know that they are here for the info that I’m bringing and not just random entertainment. #hype!

[@FAMEAcademyNY]

Up to 30 min and this is the best advise this far!

[@Goodliving2021]

Thanks so much for information❤❤❤💯

[@thenicevariety]

this is the best advice ive ever gotten! thank you for this!

[@UneditedJourney]

Man thank you. I am so stoked on finding you.

[@RAPINCITE]

17:08 I always think about this strategy. But I only have a couple of shorts that took off. I tried doing more content on that topic. I musnt of posted at the right time or hashtags not sure.

[@JMTechZ]

So at the beginning he said to dont do multichannels but work at least on one until you make at least 1k monthly recurring income on your main to think of even making another channel right?

[@RobertoBlake]

The reason is that if you’re already a working class creator your first channel is already getting nothing but the left over scraps of your time, energy and money… I would argue really don’t start a second channel until you’re a full-time content creator if you can help yourself…

[@RAPINCITE]

Your vids a jam packed with some Dam intresting topics, knowledge & wisdom. I can relate it with reality.

[@RobertoBlake]

I appreciate that

[@leegarrett7797]

Your Telling the total truth; my name is Jerald Garrett I'm getting my KZbin. channel together right now. Your 100% on point.

[@RobertoBlake]

Appreciate you.

[@lulu2u240]

Robert, your advise is fire! Everything you said is 'SOLID' 💯💯

[@RizwanKhanDiary]

Kudos to you for doing this long Live for us

[@Corrans]

You are brilliant with your advice! Thank you again.

[@RobertoBlake]

Happy to help!

[@MinaAsare]

i learned the way you play the game, it's so good

[@RobertoBlake]

What was the most valuable takeaway

[@1111yZT]

Good information! Thanks for sharing!!

[@RobertoBlake]

Glad it was helpful!

[@NoThrowawayBoy]

Good video. Thanks.

[@3dchick]

Thank you, Roberto! That was an extra fantastic one - - they're all great, but some topics, etc, strike home more. Always enjoy your down-to-earth wisdom and unique perspective. Will be coming back later to re-watch and take notes! ☺️

[@RobertoBlake]

Appreciate you 🙏🏾

[@aolanikamea6033]

@@RobertoBlake 😅

[@queencancertarot]

LOVE THE WAY YOU PREACH IT TO ME! I NEED THIS IN MY LIFE! 💖🥰🙌

[@QueenBluntdanae]

Love your break downs & honestly this video helped ALOT honestly ❤

[@RobertoBlake]

Glad it was helpful!

[@QueenBluntdanae]

@@RobertoBlake 🫶🏽

[@jimmyv70]

Incredible video! Bravo 👏 such amazing good content for success! Thank you Roberto!

[@DrScottBland]

Really great reminder to focus down on what is important to the audience. I have definitely had moments of investing in topics more interesting to me than my audience

[@itsmee6104]

Do you think someone is able to be a full time content creator and live in California? I’ve lived in California San Francisco all my life and I absolutely love it here and I don’t plan on leaving anytime soon. So, do you think someone can build a channel up and be able to live off of it in SF California?

[@RobertoBlake]

I’m going to be honest… NO. I don’t think it’s reasonable or even possible to do. not if you don’t come from money. I think it’s nearly impossible to do as a working class creator living in California if you aren’t very young and live with your parents or have them subsiding your lifestyle. Which is why young creators move TOA California rather than being from there. Cost of living is too high. Distractions are abundant. It’s easy going and comfortable. Taxes are high. Ever single one of those things eats away at what it takes to BUILD and directly put your all into something that very few people get to be successful at in the first place. Being in California if you don’t come from money or have Finanicial support or aren’t already doing very well for yourself is playing on hard mode. If you already make $100K a year, then maybe.

[@GettingNegative]

You really went Cobra Tate at the end there. I get it, but it’s a pretty spot on impression. Even the vocabulary.

[@RobertoBlake]

Actually I went Tyler Durden...

[@TheLadyWrites]

Thank you for always sharing great stuff

[@thelittlechampacademy]

where can I find the viewers report terms and conditions?

[@mrelmoresmusiclab]

Great stuff Roberto. I'm crushing it right now on my channel. Did my first livestream and it was awesome. Does anyone know if I need to move the stream over from "live" to "videos"? I don't want to lose out on that watch time. Wasn't sure if I need to download and reupload? Live streams are awesome. Love building this community. :)

[@aalegalfocus]

No, it should stay up on your channel anyway and you will get credit for the watch time. Good luck!

[@RawestHuniVisualDiaries]

I’m subscribing rn😩 cs this is NOT A WASTE OF TIME TO ME🥺💚

[@RobertoBlake]

Appreciate you

[@RawestHuniVisualDiaries]

@@RobertoBlake Absolutely I actually enjoy what I do & what you do too, I appreciate you.🫶🏽

[@RottenMelonProductions]

Great content. Thanks for the info.

[@TheBusinessCreditHub]

I swear your content is the truth

[@AberrantArt]

Loving the clear and honest advice. 38??!??! Looking 18 my dude! I'm 37 and wish I looked that young. 👍🏻

[@RobertoBlake]

Wow, thank you!

[@taiwanmudik5187]

I need some guidance.. i want make mukbang asmr channel… here’s the thing i need to know.. 1.microphones iPhone compatible 2.lightning That’s it

[@TheLadyWrites]

What kind of shorts do you find do the best fit getting interaction? ( anyone who is able to answer is appreciated. I'm working to help a friend hit her goals)

[@Sasan_Guitar]

I like your story. It’s motivating. It even encouraged me to sign back up to the gym. 👊💪

[@RobertoBlake]

Glad to hear it!

[@catplay1]

I have achieved 1 k subscribers. I highly recommend this content as it is so detailed and so relevant ❤

[@crazycornishcrafter]

What about proxy files? I'd love to see a fiverr or upwork comparison video from you.

[@RobertoBlake]

On the freelancer or Customer side?

[@crazycornishcrafter]

@@RobertoBlake Customer. Here's my opinion, for what it's worth (my day job consists of too many hours over too many days at the mo). You know editing like the back of your hand, but most of your viewers don't. You could obtain and judge results based on different budgets. At what point should your viewers obtain an editor? This would be a good video to end screen/tease another video about time-saving tips (if your viewers are going it alone on the editing). Please stay awesome xx

[@gracemelegance6623]

Thank you so much for sharing.

[@reignbowreignbowreignbow4894]

I am learning so much here. Thank you Sir🌹

[@RobertoBlake]

Glad to hear it!

[@QueenDarshellejones]

A lot of helpful tips were shared

[@JoseTorresCeledon]

Hi Roberto I live in a third world country I have disability so I cannot work a normal job I am broke af right now even the lower amount of earnings seem insane to me KZbin has been a dream of mine for years now but I do not seem to be able to fully commit to my dream. My unfair advantages are that I don’t have the need to work for now and I am decently fluent in English (I am a Spanish native speaker) 1K per month USD would be plenty for me live of off. Any advice on how to start and commit to my KZbin content creation journey? Thanks in advance.

[@PattymacMakes]

I’ve seen language channels do amazing. So I could see conversational Spanish for English speakers doing well. Especially if you tied it in as a vlog style video. So ordering a coffee in a cafe where you live. Or how to buy groceries where you live whether it’s a market or a store. People are very interested to see even the mundane stuff in foreign countries. I’ve watched several Russian channels doing their grocery shopping and it’s fascinating. I hope that helps!

[@JoseTorresCeledon]

@@PattymacMakes Thanks for the advice Pattymac. I will keep that in mind.

[@RobertoBlake]

There are a lot of opportunities, you just have to find the right market, like teaching English or doing design.

[@JoseTorresCeledon]

@@RobertoBlake Thanks for the advice Roberto and thanks for taking the time out of your busy day to answer my comment. 😀

[@markholder4944]

Love this thank you

[@ArlendaTV]

Thanks for sharing and have a nice day! 🎉🎉🎉

[@RobertoBlake]

Thank you! You too!

[@YasmineCamilla]

Coaching in the professional sense would not include a coach telling a client what to do. Coaches hold space and allow the client to come to the answers. If you’re giving advice and direction and telling your client what they should do, it’s more mentoring.

[@gussup7986]

How do I know or shape my audience

[@RobertoBlake]

Reference my section on content strategy

[@Wissenswert24]

very good, thanks

[@SomethingMobile]

Should I be doing a mobile tech channel at the age of 41. I have 3,200 subs, 130 vids, and almost 1m views? Been at it since 2018. It’s 2023 now. P.S. I have the opportunity to go all in right now.

[@RobertoBlake]

It seems your biggest issue is that it took 5 years to make 100 videos. If you could make 100 videos a year you’d be well on your way, it takes 500+ videos for most of us to get anywhere

[@ArlendaTV]

As a beginner , it is hard to think to become a you tube full time creator. We can get a lot of money if you are a member of super sticker, membership and soon. Have a great day and watching commercials as well. Thanks for sharing and the info.🎉🎉🎉

[@osayandeaikhionbare1636]

Great stream thank you, I need to start my damn Channel already.

[@RobertoBlake]

Get started!!! 👊🏾👊🏾

[@osayandeaikhionbare1636]

@@RobertoBlake thank you! I need to get to it. Make my avatar, finish and publish my first few videos! And keep learning

[@FitnessProfusion]

Thanks so much Roberto for your very informative video. I subscribed hy 10 minutes into the vid but why is there no like button?

[@RobertoBlake]

Thanks for the sub! There should be a like button