Celebrating One Year on YouTube: Creator Highs, Lows + Tips for Growth

Here’s A milestone worth pausing for: One year ago, I uploaded my first YouTube video. I didn’t know what would come of it — but I knew I wanted to create.

Today, I’m reflecting on the highs, lows, and lessons from my first year on YouTube, and sharing 5 tips for new creators who want to grow.

The Highs That Made It All Worthwhile

Some moments this year were unforgettable:

Reaction Videos to The View: Quick, dynamic, and fun — these videos brought my voice into timely conversations and built community fast.

Olympics Coverage: Highlighting Black excellence on a global stage? Joyful and deeply personal. I loved every moment.

Covering the DNC: Hard but important. This experience taught me who gets lifted on platforms — and why I must continue showing up.

The Blueprint Series: The most labor-intensive videos — but also the most rewarding. Helping others build their brands lights me up.

Deep Dives Into Marketing (Brat Green, Super Bowl Ads): When I get to flex my marketing expertise and analyze culture? That’s my happy place.

The Challenges and Realities of Being a Creator

Not everything was easy — or fair.

• Visibility issues.
  Some videos didn’t reach who they should have. It’s tough watching others rise while your work stays hidden.

• Lack of tangible support.
  Support doesn’t just mean words. Shares, comments, and engagement are harder to secure — especially as a Black woman.

• Creative fatigue.
  Doing everything solo — scripting, filming, editing, promoting — is draining. The emotional load is real.

Still, these lows shaped me. They reminded me why I create and who I create for.

Top 5 Tips for New YouTube Creators

Whether you’re starting or growing, here’s what I learned:

1. Start messy.
Don’t wait for perfect — just start and improve as you go.

2. Know and own your voice.
Authenticity connects more than trend-chasing.

3. Balance fun with strategy.
Do what excites you, but pay attention to analytics and patterns.

4. Protect your energy.
Not every video will hit. Stay grounded and keep creating.

5. Build your own table.
Platforms may not spotlight you — but that doesn’t mean your voice isn’t necessary.

What’s Next: Year Two and Beyond

I’m proud of what I’ve built and even prouder that I’ve stayed consistent.

This past year proved that visibility isn’t always granted — but your validity comes from within.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey.
If you’re just joining me, welcome — I’m just getting started.

You are capable of big things.