In a previous article I wrote, Hitting A Target You Can't See, I discussed a powerful strategy for content creation—talking to the person you used to be. By sharing insights, experiences, and solutions that would have helped your past self, you can create authentic content that resonates and builds trust with viewers facing similar challenges. But here’s the thing—talking to our past selves is only half the equation. Sometimes, success on YouTube requires something more: the ability to walk in the shoes of your target audience. So, how do you do that—practically? What follows is a collection of essays, based on my reearch, that explores that very question. It’s inspired in part by a recent conversation involving @Blake Drakos and @Post Office Fans, and I'm sharing it here so that everyone can benefit from the discussion. 🔶—— ESSAY: PART 1 —— 🔶 Let’s be honest—growing a YouTube channel isn’t as simple as pressing the record button and hoping for the best. If it were, we'd all be viral sensations by now. The truth is, success on YouTube isn’t just about creating content; it’s about connection. It’s about understanding your viewers on a deeper level and, most importantly, stepping into their well-worn (and sometimes slightly smelly) shoes. YouTube is more than just a video platform; it’s a place where people come to learn, connect, and be entertained. Whether they’re searching for "how to fix a leaky faucet" or "how to survive a toddler meltdown without losing your mind," viewers arrive with a mission. And if you want to win their hearts (and their precious watch time), you need to see the world through their eyes. But here’s where many creators get it wrong. Instead of focusing on what their audience actually needs, they create content based on what they find interesting. It’s like offering snow boots to someone living in the tropics—thoughtful, maybe, but completely off the mark. I learned this lesson years ago when I worked at the very first Wal-Mart to open in my neck of the woods. That job changed my life—not only because I met my wife, Jodell, but because I saw firsthand what happens when a company doesn’t truly know its audience.

Super happy to be growing. even if it is slow but don't worry i'll be doing 10x as many videos soon. literally. i have a plan. also my last video is still 1 of 10! but not for long

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Did anyone else do a New Year themed video this month? Leave a link to yours & say what it's about & if we have common interests, maybe we can watch some! Mine is called "Explore Life & Creativity in Your 40s This Year"

AM ROSELINE GRAHAM NEW HERE