👋 Hello everyone, I’m Jessica
My story is probably familiar to many of you. I’ve had the idea to start a YouTube channel more times than I can count. I’ve done the research, mapped things out, and then backed off for one reason or another again and again. I’m sure many of you can relate. Instead of beating myself up for not starting sooner, I’m choosing to trust that there was a reason for the timing. The way I think about content, creation, and monetization has changed a lot over the years. I value authenticity and integrity deeply. If I’d started back in 2017, I likely would’ve fallen into a “fake it till you make it” approach that never really felt right for me. This time feels different. I’ve always loved to learn new things and teach what I’m learning. But this time around I know I have real experience and a clear point of view, and I’m excited to share what I’ve learned in a way that’s honest, more refined, and actually useful. My plan is to launch with a series of related, evergreen masterclass-style videos that I’m outlining now. This way, even if I decide this platform isn’t quite for me, I’ll have a small library of content that I’m proud to share with the world. While I’ll work toward monetization credentials and adding in relevant affiliates, I am choosing to look at those as a little bonus income that will hopefully pay for the cost of the channel and production over time. My primary focus is using YouTube to support and grow the consulting and advisory work I already do (I’m a growth strategist in the online business space), and to promote smaller DIY products layered in over time. Of course, this is just the plan as it stands now. I’m open to learning and letting things evolve as I go! If I’m being honest, the part I’m dreading the most is editing. I’ve created online courses before and know it’s not my strength, but I’m committed to testing things and generating some revenue before investing in support. I’m looking forward to connecting with other creators who are at a similar stage (or a bit further along), and I’d love to explore collaborations with people in the online business niche once I get going.