Are you up for a challenge? Hopefully this is an easy one. Think of 5 ideas for a video you would like to make, and post them below. They don’t have to have titles or thumbnails or scripts yet. Just the idea/concept! If you need help thinking of something, watch this video

For me, it was Ali Abdaal, Sean Cannel, and Alex Hormozi. I’ve watched hundreds of hours of content from these 3 creators. Who inspired/inspires you?

If y’all are needing some Canva thumbnail templates to help get the ball rolling, I have added a pack of 15 templates available for purchase in the classroom. Click here to go to the new Thumbnail Templates

WHY do you want to start a YouTube channel? What does SUCCESS look like to you? For me it’s a few things: I really enjoy teaching. I love the feeling of seeing someone else have an aha moment when they learn a new concept or gain a new understanding. I also aspire to earn enough from YouTube and YouTube-adjacent activities that I don’t need to keep a 9-5 job. Maybe the real thing I’m looking for here is time freedom and location freedom. Lastly, it’s turned out to be a really great creative outlet. I love writing, which I get to do when creating scripts or talking points. I enjoy graphic design which goes into making thumbnails and some graphics used in the videos themselves. I enjoy performing (I was a musician in a past life) and being on camera scratches that itch. Even editing can be enjoyable when I get into a groove! What’s your “Why”?

Need some inspiration for your next YouTube video? Here are 37 formats to start you off. Let me know in the comments if you would like clarification/examples/etc, or just let us know what video format you like the best for your channel! Foundational / Core Formats 1. Talking Head – The creator speaks directly to the camera, often in a home studio or simple setup. Great for tutorials, storytelling, commentary, or thought leadership. 2. Vlog – “Video blog” format following the creator’s day, experience, or journey. Can be cinematic or casual. Builds parasocial connection. 3. Video Essay – Scripted, narrative-driven commentary often with B-roll, archival clips, and research. Common in film, culture, or tech analysis. 4. Tutorial / How-To – Step-by-step instructional videos teaching a specific skill, tool, or process. 5. Review / Unboxing – Creator reviews or unboxes a product with commentary, pros/cons, and personal experience. 6. Challenge Video – Creator attempts a challenge (e.g., “I made $100 in 24 hours online”) with a storytelling or experiment-style twist. Educational & Informational Formats 7. Explainer Video – Uses visuals, animations, or concise explanations to break down complex topics. 8. Listicle / Countdown – “Top 10…” or “5 Ways to…” format that’s easy to consume and great for SEO. 9. Case Study / Breakdown – Analyzes a person, business, trend, or event in detail. 10. Deep Dive / Longform Documentary – In-depth research piece on a niche subject; slower pace, high retention. 11. Mythbusting / Fact Check – Debunks common misconceptions or viral claims. Entertainment & Storytelling Formats 12. Storytime – Personal story told directly to camera, often dramatic or funny. 13. Reaction Video – Creator reacts to media, trends, or viewer submissions. 14. Compilation / Montage – Curated clips or highlights, often from other videos or events. 15. Parody / Skit – Short comedic or satirical videos imitating trends or cultural moments. 16. Documentary Vlog Hybrid – Mix of vlog storytelling and investigative/documentary structure.