5 Steps to Launch Your YouTube Channel in 2025

If you’re a brand or business owner trying to learn how to start a YouTube channel in 2025, this guide is for you. Launching a channel may feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, it can be simpler than you think. In this post, I’ll share five actionable steps to get your channel up and running. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Choose Your Gear

When starting out, gear selection can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Your smartphone is a fantastic option to begin with, especially with many models offering 4K video capabilities. To elevate your audio quality, consider using the Rode VideoMic Me, a microphone designed for smartphones. If you’re ready to invest more, a mid-range setup like the Sony ZV-E10 paired with a quality lens and microphone offers excellent results. A full list of my recommended gear can be found on YouTube under this video!

Pro Tip:

Don’t let the fear of equipment hold you back. Your content and delivery matter far more than having the latest gear.

Step 2: Define Your Target Audience

Identifying your ideal audience is crucial for success on YouTube. Think about the niche you want to target and the types of topics your audience would find valuable. Unlike other platforms, YouTube allows for flexibility—you can explore various topics that appeal to your audience without being confined to just one.

Example:

If your audience is small business owners, you might start with videos on Instagram Reels, then expand into email marketing or online course creation as your channel grows.

Step 3: Create a 90-Day Video Plan

Planning is key to consistency. Develop a content calendar outlining the first three months of your video topics. Aim for one video per week, focusing on three types of content:

1. Search-driven videos: Optimize for keywords your audience is searching for.
2. Go-big-or-go-home videos: Create attention-grabbing content that stands out on YouTube’s homepage.
3. Hub videos: Cater to your existing subscribers with relatable, nurturing content.

Tools to Try:

Use tools like TubeBuddy to research keywords and identify topics with high search potential!

Step 4: Outline and Film Your Videos

Outlining your videos rather than scripting them word-for-word helps maintain a conversational tone that resonates with viewers. Use bullet points to guide your flow and ensure you hit all key points without sounding robotic.

A Mindset Shift:

Remember, confidence comes with practice. Your first few videos might feel awkward, but each one will help you improve! Think of your camera as a friend, and focus on delivering value to your audience.

Step 5: Publish and Develop a Workflow

Once you’ve filmed your first few videos, establish a sustainable workflow. Batch filming—recording multiple videos in one session—saves time and keeps you ahead of schedule. Start small, aiming to film 2-4 videos in one day, and gradually increase as you become more comfortable!

Avoid Overbatching:

While batching is effective, filming too far ahead can make it challenging to adapt to trends or insights from recent uploads. Stay flexible and update your strategy as needed.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re serious about using YouTube to grow your business, check out my free YouTube class! It’s an hour-long deep dive into my strategies for scaling a business through YouTube, including tips for growing your audience and monetizing your content. Click here to access the free class.

Starting a YouTube channel doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right plan and a commitment to consistency, you can create a channel that drives growth and visibility for your business. Now, it’s your turn to take action. What’s your first video going to be about? Let me know in the comments!