Thematic isn’t just refreshed – it’s reimagined. This update celebrates the creators and artists who inspire us and shape our platform every day.

Trending music for content creators 🤝 New fans for music artists.

That’s the heartbeat of Thematic. And this new chapter was built with your feedback at the center. From design to features, every update was shaped by creators and artists who wanted a faster, smarter, and more inspiring way to connect through music.

A Bold New Identity, Powered by Creators

We partnered with the amazing team at Deka Agency to reimagine Thematic’s brand identity and web experience. The result? A bold, music-driven design that reflects the energy, passion, and creativity of our community.

Expect rich purples, neon highlights, playful type, and organic 3D elements woven throughout your experience. From our refreshed logo to the streamlined UI, every detail was crafted to bring Thematic’s spirit to life – fun, modern, and unapologetically creator-first.

This design is more than a fresh coat of paint. It represents how far we’ve come together. From a small collective of creators and artists to a global community of 1M+ members, Thematic has grown into a trusted hub where creativity thrives, friendships form, and careers launch.

Features Built With Your Feedback 💡

When we say this redesign was community-powered, we mean it. We listened to your requests, ran countless creator interviews, and gathered feedback to make Thematic faster, smarter, and easier to use.

Here’s a glimpse at what’s new:

✨ For You Page

Your personalized hub for music discovery. Get tailored song recommendations based on the music you’ve downloaded, your creative style, and your video themes. Plus, quick access to your recent activity means you’ll never lose track of your go-to tracks.

🎶 Improved Search & Discovery

Say goodbye to endless scrolling. With new filters, accurate tags, and live search that updates as you type, you can find exactly what you need – whether that’s a specific vibe, lyric, instrument, or genre. You can now explore songs, artists, and playlists all in one place.

🔎 Find Similar Songs

Love a track? Tap “Find Similar” to unlock a world of related vibes. Perfect for when you need a full playlist of cohesive sounds or just want to explore new music that matches your creative flow.

These features were designed to cut through the noise, reduce creative friction, and give you back more time to do what you do best: create.

For Artists: More Ways to Be Discovered 🌟

Thematic has always been about building bridges between creators and artists – and this update makes those connections stronger than ever.

We’ve redesigned artist profiles to showcase everything about you in one place: your songs, your style, your story. With smarter search, richer tagging, and new discovery features like Find Similar Songs, your music surfaces in more of the right moments.

Plus, our curated genre-specific playlists now highlight trending artists right on the cover, giving your music extra visibility and helping you reach new fans with each release.

That means more opportunities to be discovered by creators who truly connect with your sound. More playlists, more collaborations, more fans.

At Thematic, we believe discovery should feel organic and meaningful. These updates are designed to help you grow your audience authentically – not through ads or algorithms, but through real creative connections.

Smarter, Faster, and More Reliable ⚡

We know it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. Slow load times, clunky filters, outdated UI – yeah, we’ve heard you. That’s why we rebuilt Thematic from the ground up to be faster, smarter, and more reliable.

Now, you can browse without distractions, discover music without delays, and curate playlists without frustration. It’s a smoother, more enjoyable experience from start to finish – so you can stay in the creative flow.

Our Mission, Our Future 💜

This redesign isn’t just about what Thematic looks like. It’s about what we stand for.

Our mission has always been clear:

To build a future where creativity is driven by community, where every voice has the opportunity to create, connect, and thrive in a trusted, collaborative space.

Every decision – from the new color palette to the way search works – was made with that mission in mind. Because at Thematic, your creativity is at the center of everything we do.

And this is only the beginning. With this new foundation, we’ll continue building the tools and experiences you’ve been asking for: easier discovery, deeper connections, and more ways to grow as a creator or artist.

We’re so excited for what’s next – and we can’t wait to see what you create with the new Thematic.

Ready to Explore? 🚀

Jump in, explore the new features, and make yourself at home. Your next favorite song is waiting – and so is your next big creative moment.

Ready to take on the ultimate creator challenge? Vlogmas (vlogging every day in December leading up to Christmas) has become one of the most beloved traditions in the YouTube community. It’s your chance to connect with your audience daily, grow your channel, and spread holiday cheer while building momentum heading into the new year.

But let’s be honest: committing to 25 days of consecutive content can feel overwhelming. Between planning, filming, editing, and uploading daily, many creators start strong but struggle to finish. The good news? With the right strategy, Vlogmas doesn’t have to burn you out.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn exactly how to plan, execute, and actually enjoy your Vlogmas series. Whether you’re a seasoned vlogger or attempting daily holiday vlogging for the first time, these strategies will help you stay consistent, create engaging content, and make the most of the holiday season.

Let’s make Vlogmas 2025 your best one yet! 🎄

Table of Contents:

1. What is Vlogmas?
2. Why Creators Love Vlogmas
3. How to Plan Your Vlogmas Series
4. 25 Vlogmas Content Ideas
5. Creating a Realistic Filming Schedule
6. Essential Equipment for Daily Vlogging
7. Editing Tips for Daily Uploads
8. Finding the Perfect Music for Your Vlogmas Videos
9. How to Avoid Vlogmas Burnout
10. Promoting Your Vlogmas Series
11. Vlogmas FAQs

What is Vlogmas?

Vlogmas is a YouTube tradition where creators upload a vlog (video blog) every day throughout December, typically from December 1st through December 25th. Think of it as an advent calendar, but instead of chocolate, your audience gets daily video content from you.

The Origins of Vlogmas

Vlogmas started in the early 2010s when YouTubers wanted to create special holiday content and challenge themselves with daily uploads. Creators like Zoella, Alfie Deyes, and the Shaytards popularized the trend, and it’s grown into one of YouTube’s most anticipated annual events.

What Makes Vlogmas Different from Regular Vlogs?

🎄 Daily uploads: Unlike typical weekly or bi-weekly vlogs, Vlogmas means posting every single day

🎄 Holiday theme: Content centers around the Christmas season, festive activities, and year-end reflections

🎄 Community building: The daily format creates a ritual for viewers who check in each morning or evening

🎄 Behind-the-scenes: The vlogs tend to be more casual and personal, showing real holiday preparations and daily life

Why Creators Love Vlogmas

Vlogmas isn’t just a fun tradition – it’s a strategic way to grow your channel and connect with your audience.

Benefits of Doing Vlogmas

Massive Channel Growth Potential

Daily uploads mean 25 opportunities for your content to be discovered. The YouTube algorithm rewards consistency, and Vlogmas delivers that in spades. Many creators see their biggest subscriber growth during Vlogmas.

Builds Stronger Audience Connection

When viewers tune in daily, they feel like they’re part of your holiday season. This daily ritual creates loyalty and turns casual viewers into dedicated fans.

Develops Your Content Creation Skills

Creating 25 videos in 25 days forces you to become faster, more efficient, and more creative. You’ll end Vlogmas as a significantly better creator.

Seasonal Search Traffic

“Vlogmas” searches spike dramatically in November and December. By participating, you tap into this seasonal interest and attract new viewers searching for holiday content.

Sets You Up for the New Year

The momentum you build during Vlogmas carries into January. Plus, you’ll have proven to yourself (and your audience) that you can show up consistently.

How to Plan Your Series

Success in Vlogmas starts with solid planning. Don’t wait until December 1st to figure out your strategy.

Start Planning in October or November

🎃 October: Decide if you’re doing Vlogmas and commit to it

🦃 November: Plan content ideas, batch film intros/outros, stockpile footage, organize your schedule

🎄 Early December: Start strong with pre-filmed or easier content days

Define Your Vlogmas Theme or Angle

Having a cohesive theme makes planning easier and helps your series stand out.

Popular Vlogmas themes:

• Life Vlogmas: Daily life, holiday prep, cozy moments
• Behind-the-scenes creator Vlogmas: Show your creative process and business
• Challenge Vlogmas: Attempt something new each day
• Budget Vlogmas: Holiday activities on a tight budget
• Family Vlogmas: Focus on family traditions and togetherness
• Travel Vlogmas: Document holiday trips or visiting family

Your theme doesn’t need to be rigid, but having a general direction helps maintain consistency.

Set Realistic Expectations

🎄 Be honest about your schedule: If you work full-time, have family commitments, or travel during December, plan accordingly

🎄 Know your content style: Don’t force yourself into highly produced videos if that’s not sustainable daily

🎄 Decide on video length: 5-10 minutes is perfect for daily vlogs. Don’t stress about making each one 20+ minutes

Create a Content Calendar

Map out all 25 days (or however many you’re committing to) before December 1st.

What to include:

• Specific content ideas for each day
• Filming location/requirements
• Any special props, ingredients, or materials needed
• Backup plans for days when plans fall through

✅ Pro Tip: Plan your most complex or time-intensive videos for weekends when you have more time to film and edit.

25 Vlogmas Content Ideas

Stuck on what to film? Here are 25 Vlogmas video ideas to fill your calendar:

🎄 Festive Activities

1. Decorating for Christmas – Document putting up your tree, lights, and decorations
2. Holiday baking – Make cookies, gingerbread houses, or festive treats
3. Gift wrapping session – Wrap presents while chatting with your audience
4. Holiday shopping vlog – Show your gift shopping adventures (in-store or online)
5. Drive around looking at Christmas lights – Film neighborhood light displays

☕ Cozy Content

6. Morning routine in December – Start the day with cozy vibes
7. Hot chocolate bar creation – Set up a DIY hot cocoa station
8. Holiday movie marathon – Watch and react to Christmas classics
9. Cozy night in routine – Show your evening wind-down with holiday touches
10. Reading by the fireplace – Share holiday books or reflect on the year

🎨 Creative Projects

11. DIY holiday decorations – Create handmade ornaments or decor
12. Handmade gift tutorial – Make gifts for friends and family
13. Holiday card making – Design and create Christmas cards
14. Room makeover for the holidays – Decorate your space festively
15. Thrifting for holiday finds – Hunt for vintage decorations or gift items

💭 Personal Content

16. Year in review – Reflect on your biggest moments from the year
17. 2025 goals and resolutions – Share what you hope to achieve
18. Q&A while decorating – Answer viewer questions during a festive activity
19. Day in the life – Regular daily routine with holiday touches
20. Get ready with me: Holiday party edition – Glam up for a seasonal event

🎁 Community & Tradition

21. Family traditions – Share and participate in your family’s holiday rituals
22. Secret Santa reveal – Open gifts or show what you bought others
23. Holiday recipes from family – Make traditional dishes
24. Volunteering or giving back – Show acts of kindness or charity work
25. Christmas morning – Wake up and celebrate (your finale!)

Mix high and low effort days – Not every vlog needs to be elaborate. Some of your best content will be simple, authentic moments.

Creating a Realistic Filming Schedule

Daily uploads don’t necessarily mean filming every single day from scratch. Smart creators batch content and plan ahead.

The Two Approaches to Vlogmas

1. Film and Edit Daily (True Daily Vlogging)

Pros:

• Most authentic and spontaneous
• Content feels fresh and current
• Captures real moments as they happen

Cons:

• Most time-intensive
• Higher risk of burnout
• No buffer if you get sick or have emergencies

🎁 Best for: Experienced vloggers who have efficient workflows

2. Batch Film and Schedule (Strategic Vlogging)

Pros:

• Less stressful
• Built-in buffer for challenging days
• More time to ensure quality

Cons:

• Less spontaneous
• Content might feel less “in the moment”
• Requires strong November planning

🎁 Best for: Creators balancing their filming & posting schedules with work or other commitments

🤝 Recommended Hybrid Approach

Pre-film 5-7 videos in November:

• Holiday hauls
• Decorating videos
• Gift guides
• Holiday planning content

Film most content 1-2 days ahead:

• Gives you editing time without daily pressure
• Captures timely moments
• Provides small buffer for unexpected events

Keep 2-3 “emergency” vlogs ready:

• Cozy chats
• Q&As
• Simple day-in-the-life footage

This hybrid approach gives you the best of both worlds: authenticity plus sustainability.

Essential Equipment for Daily Vlogging

You don’t need professional gear to create successful Vlogmas content, but a few key items make the process easier.

📸 Camera Options

Smartphone (iPhone, Samsung Galaxy):

• Most accessible option
• Great quality for vlogs
• Always with you

Compact vlog camera (Canon G7X, Sony ZV-1):

• Designed specifically for vlogging
• Flip screen for framing yourself
• Better low-light performance than phones

DSLR/Mirrorless (Canon M50, Sony A6400):

• Highest quality
• Interchangeable lenses
• More professional look

For Daily Vlogging: Your smartphone is perfectly fine! Most successful Vlogmas series are filmed on phones.

🎙️ Audio

Built-in camera/phone mic: Acceptable for casual vlogs

Lapel/lavalier mic (Rode Wireless GO): Clips to your shirt for clear audio

Shotgun mic (Rode VideoMicro): Mounts on camera for better directional audio

✅ Pro Tip: Good audio matters more than perfect video. Invest in at least a basic external mic if possible.

💡 Lighting

Natural light: Film near windows during daytime (free and flattering)

Ring light: Affordable and perfect for sit-down talking segments

LED panel: Portable and versatile for various situations

🔋 Accessories

• Tripod or phone holder – For static shots and filming yourself
• Extra batteries and SD cards – Never run out mid-vlog
• Portable charger – Keep your phone powered all day
• Gimbal (optional) – Stabilizes walking/moving shots

Remember: Don’t let equipment hold you back. Start with what you have and upgrade as you go.

Editing Tips for Daily Uploads

Editing 25 videos in 25 days requires efficiency. Here’s how to streamline your editing workflow.

Keep It Simple

For Vlogmas, “done” is better than “perfect.” Your audience values consistency over flawless production.

Create an Editing Template

Set up a template with:

• Intro sequence (your Vlogmas intro)
• Lower thirds for text
• Transition presets
• Color correction settings
• Outro/end screen

Use this template for every video to save time setting up.

Batch Similar Tasks

Edit multiple videos at once:

• Color correct all footage from the same location together
• Add music to all videos in one session
• Create all thumbnails at once

Use Keyboard Shortcuts

Learn the essential shortcuts in your editing software (Premiere Pro, Final Cut, DaVinci Resolve, CapCut). This alone can cut editing time in half.

Don’t Over-Edit

Focus on:

• Cutting out dead space and long pauses
• Adding music
• Including text for context
• Smooth transitions between scenes

Skip:

• Complex effects
• Heavy color grading
• Elaborate graphics (unless it’s your brand)

Set Time Limits

Give yourself a maximum editing time per video (e.g., 1-2 hours). When time’s up, export and move on. Perfectionism is the enemy of daily uploads.

✅ Pro Tip: Edit while you’re filming if possible. Import footage at night, do a rough cut, then finalize the next morning. This keeps you ahead of schedule.

🎶 Finding the Perfect Music for Your Vlogmas Videos

Music is essential for creating the cozy, festive vibe that makes Vlogmas videos so enjoyable to watch. But using the wrong music can get your videos copyright claimed or muted, killing your hard work.

Why Music Matters for Vlogmas

🎄 Sets the holiday mood: Festive background music instantly creates that Christmas feeling

🎄 Covers awkward silence: Keeps energy up during transitions and B-roll

🎄 Maintains pacing: Music helps your vlogs feel dynamic and engaging

🎄 Creates your signature sound: Consistent music choices help build your brand

The Copyright Problem with Holiday Music

Here’s the catch: most popular Christmas songs (Mariah Carey, Michael Bublé, classic carols) are heavily copyrighted. Using them in your videos will result in:

• Copyright claims
• Ads placed on your videos (revenue goes to rights holders, not you)
• Videos muted or blocked in some countries
• Potential copyright strikes

Even “royalty-free” sites often have licensing restrictions that don’t cover YouTube monetization.

The Solution: Thematic’s Copyright-Safe Music for Vlogmas

This is where Thematic becomes essential for video creators.

Thematic provides thousands of high-quality, copyright-safe music tracks specifically curated for content creators. Every song is fully cleared for use on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and all major platforms – no copyright claims, no monetization issues, no stress.

Why creators choose Thematic:

• 🎄 Festive holiday music – Cozy, seasonal tracks perfect for December vlogs
• 🔒 100% copyright-safe – Never worry about claims ruining your videos
• 🤑 Keep your monetization – All ad revenue stays with you
• 🎵 Unlimited downloads – Use as many tracks as you need across all 25 vlogs
• ▶️ Organized playlists – Find the perfect vibe quickly (cozy, upbeat, chill, festive)
• 🙌 Real music from real artists – Not generic stock music
• 🆓 Free for creators – Start using Thematic at no cost

For your Vlogmas series, Thematic ensures:

• Consistent quality music across all your videos
• No last-minute scrambling for copyright-safe tracks
• Professional sound that enhances your content
• Peace of mind knowing your entire series is legally protected

Find Your Vlogmas Soundtrack

Thematic has curated specific playlists perfect for holiday vlogs. Check out our complete guide to the Best Free Music for Vlogmas Videos where you’ll find:

• Top festive tracks for cozy vlogs
• Upbeat music for holiday activities
• Chill background music for morning routines
• How to choose music that matches your vibe

Don’t let copyright issues ruin your Vlogmas. Use Thematic to protect your content and keep all your videos safe for years to come.

How to Avoid Vlogmas Burnout

Daily uploads are demanding. Here’s how to maintain your energy and enthusiasm all month.

Set Boundaries

🎄 You don’t have to film everything: Some moments can stay private

🎄 It’s okay to have “lazy” days: Low-key vlogs are often fan favorites

🎄 Protect your sleep: Don’t stay up until 3am editing every night

Build in Rest Days

Consider just doing 12 Days of Vlogmas or posting on weekdays only:

• Film Monday-Friday, take weekends off
• Do December 1st-12th instead of the full 25 days
• Skip December 24-25 to spend time with family

Do what works for you.

Simplify When Needed

Quick vlog ideas for tired days:

• Film your morning coffee routine (5 minutes of footage)
• Show what you’re wearing (OOTD)
• Chat while doing a simple task (dishes, laundry, etc.)
• React to something on your phone
• Quick life update while sitting on your bed

Batch Tasks

Do repetitive tasks in bulk:

• Film all your intros at once
• Create all thumbnails in one sitting
• Write all descriptions on a day you feel productive
• Schedule uploads in advance

Remember Why You’re Doing This

When motivation dips (and it will), remember:

• You’re building your audience
• You’re improving your skills
• Viewers genuinely look forward to your videos
• It’s only for one month

⭐️ Most importantly: If Vlogmas stops being fun and starts affecting your mental health, it’s okay to stop or adjust. Your wellbeing matters more than completing a YouTube challenge.

Promoting Your Vlogmas Series

Create great content, but don’t forget to promote it so people actually watch.

Announce Your Series in November

Build anticipation:

• Post on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter announcing your Vlogmas plans
• Create a countdown
• Ask followers what they want to see
• Tease your first few video topics

Optimize Each Video for Discovery

Vlogmas SEO basics:

• Include “Vlogmas” in your title (example: “VLOGMAS DAY 5: Holiday Baking”)
• Add “Vlogmas” and “Vlogmas 2025” to your video tags
• Write descriptions that include Vlogmas and holiday-related keywords
• Create eye-catching thumbnails with day numbers

Cross-Promote on Other Platforms

Instagram: Post clips as Reels with link in bio

TikTok: Share highlights with “full vlog on YouTube”

Instagram Stories: Daily reminders that your vlog is live

Pinterest: Create pins linking to your vlogs (great for evergreen traffic)

Engage with the Vlogmas Community

🎄 Comment on other creators’ daily videos: Build community and visibility

🎄 Use #vlogmas hashtags: Join the broader conversation

🎄 Collaborate: Film with other creators doing Vlogmas

Create a Playlist

Make a “Vlogmas 2025” playlist:

• Add each day’s video to the playlist
• Link to the playlist in every video description
• Viewers can binge-watch your entire series

FAQs about Vlogmas

Got questions about Vlogmas? Here are answers to what creators ask most.

When does Vlogmas start and end?

Traditional Vlogmas runs from December 1st through December 25th (Christmas Day), totaling 25 days of daily vlogs. However, many creators modify this to fit their schedule – some do 12 days, others do weekdays only, and some continue through New Year’s Eve.

Do I have to vlog every single day?

No! While traditional Vlogmas is daily uploads, you can adapt it to your schedule. Popular variations include:

• Vlogmas Weekdays: Monday-Friday only
• 12 Days of Vlogmas: December 14-25
• Every Other Day Vlogmas: 12-13 videos throughout December
• Weekend Vlogmas: Saturdays and Sundays only

Choose what’s sustainable for you. Consistency matters more than hitting an arbitrary number.

What if I’m not good at vlogging?

Vlogmas is actually a great way to become good at vlogging! The daily practice forces rapid improvement. Start with simple vlogs and don’t worry about perfection. Your audience will appreciate authenticity over polish, especially during the busy holiday season.

How long should each Vlogmas video be?

Most successful Vlogmas videos are 5-15 minutes long. This length is:

• Short enough to watch during coffee or lunch breaks
• Long enough to feel substantial
• Manageable to film and edit daily

Don’t stress about hitting a specific duration. Let your content determine the length naturally.

Can I do Vlogmas if I have a full-time job?

Absolutely! Many successful creators work full-time. Keys to making it work:

• Batch film on weekends
• Keep videos short and simple on weekdays
• Film quick morning or evening routines
• Build a buffer of pre-filmed content
• Be realistic about your capacity

What equipment do I need for Vlogmas?

You can do Vlogmas with just your smartphone. That’s it. Optional additions that help:

• Tripod or phone holder
• External microphone
• Ring light for indoor filming
• Portable charger

Don’t let equipment limitations stop you from starting.

How do I come up with 25 days of content?

Use the content ideas list in this guide as a starting point. Mix different types of content:

• Holiday activities (baking, decorating, shopping)
• Daily routines with festive touches
• Behind-the-scenes creator life
• Year-end reflections and planning

You don’t need 25 completely unique ideas – variations on themes work great.

What if I miss a day?

It happens! Options when you miss a day:

• Acknowledge it: “Yesterday got away from me, but here’s today!”
• Post two videos: Catch up if you can
• Skip it and keep going: Don’t let one miss derail the whole series
• Post late: Better to post a few hours late than not at all

Do your best and keep moving forward.

Should I monetize my Vlogmas videos?

If you’re eligible for the YouTube Partner Program, yes – monetize your videos! However, ensure you’re using copyright-safe music (like tracks from Thematic) so you don’t lose monetization to copyright claims. Holiday content often gets higher CPMs, so Vlogmas videos can be quite profitable.

How do successful Vlogmas creators avoid burnout?

Strategies from experienced Vlogmas vloggers:

• Pre-film 5-10 videos in November
• Keep some vlogs simple (5-minute morning routines)
• Build in easier filming days (don’t plan complex content for every day)
• Batch edit multiple videos at once
• Ask for help (partner, friend, or family can film you)
• Remember it’s temporary (just one month)

Make Vlogmas 2025 Your Best Yet

Vlogmas is more than just a YouTube trend – it’s an opportunity to challenge yourself creatively, grow your channel, and connect with your audience in a meaningful way during the holiday season.

Here’s your Vlogmas action plan:

1. Decide if you’re committing to Vlogmas (full 25 days or a modified version)
2. Start planning in October/November with your content calendar
3. Get your music sorted with copyright-safe tracks from Thematic
4. Batch what you can to reduce daily stress
5. Keep it simple and remember that done is better than perfect
6. Engage with the community and enjoy the process
7. Be kind to yourself if things don’t go perfectly

The creators who succeed at Vlogmas aren’t necessarily the ones with the best equipment or the most elaborate content – they’re the ones who show up consistently, stay authentic, and remember why they started.

Will the experience be challenging? Yes. Will you be exhausted by December 25th? Probably. But will you grow as a creator, strengthen your audience connection, and create memories you’ll look back on fondly? Absolutely.

Ready to make Vlogmas magic? Here’s how to get started:

🎄 Download our Best Free Music for Vlogmas Videos guide

🎄 Sign up for Thematic‘s free copyright-safe music for all your vlogs

🎄 Start planning your content calendar today

You’ve got this! Here’s to a successful, fun, and festive Vlogmas 2025. 🎄🎥

We hope you enjoyed our ultimate guide on Vlogmas ✌️If you’re looking for more creator tools and resources, visit Thematic’s Creator Toolkit for additional resources on creating content – including starting a YouTube channel, thumbnail and channel art templates, best practices, and of course, great royalty free songs to use in your videos for free with Thematic.

This Complete Guide to Vlogmas is brought to you by Thematic Director of Partnerships, Stephanie Leyva

Stephanie Leyva sits at the intersection of music artists and content creators. As the Director of Partnerships at Thematic, Stephanie has worked extensively with the artist and creator community on the site to ensure success digitally, on the platform, and support their initiatives.

Over the past few years, she has led numerous trending music-driven influencer marketing campaigns for “Glitter” and “Supalonely (feat. Gus Dapperton” by BENEE, “Loneliness for Love” by Lovelytheband, “Checklist (feat. Chromeo)” by MAX and so many more. She’s worked alongside various labels such as Casablanca Records, Republic Records and Sony Music. Focused on empowering connections between content creators and music artists, Stephanie continues to lead the charge in innovative music discovery through social.

Stephanie is also the creator of the Bloom In Progress podcast – a podcast about personal growth, relationships and navigating life in your 20’s.

🎁 Looking for the best music for Vlogmas in 2025? This curated playlist features 10 copyright-free Christmas songs perfect for daily December vlogs on YouTube, Instagram Reels, and TikTok.

Vlogmas music sets the festive tone for your holiday content, helping you connect with viewers through 25 days of December vlogs. The right soundtrack enhances cozy morning routines, gift wrapping montages, holiday baking sessions, and festive outings while keeping your channel safe from copyright claims.

Our top 10 music for Vlogmas playlist includes trending holiday songs across multiple genres – from lo-fi Christmas beats to indie pop and smooth jazz instrumentals. Every track is completely free to use with Thematic, cleared for monetization, and perfect for capturing the magic of the holiday season.

⏰ Short on time? Jump straight to our Top 10 Vlogmas Music Playlist or start downloading copyright-free Christmas songs on Thematic.

What is Vlogmas Music?

Music for Vlogmas includes copyright-free Christmas and holiday songs specifically chosen for daily December video content.

The best Vlogmas music balances festive energy with enough variety to keep viewers engaged throughout the entire 25-day vlogging challenge. Unlike traditional Christmas music, Vlogmas background music needs to support your storytelling without overwhelming your voice or the natural sounds of your holiday activities.

Why Copyright-Free Music Matters for Vlogmas

Using copyright-free Vlogmas songs protects your YouTube channel from Content ID claims that can block monetization or mute your videos. Traditional Christmas songs are heavily copyrighted, and even a few seconds can trigger claims. With Thematic‘s royalty-free Christmas music, you can safely soundtrack all 25 days of Vlogmas while maintaining full monetization rights across YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok ☃️

The Best Music for Vlogmas: Top 10 Playlist 🎄

Updated November 2025

1. Eli Lev – “The Heart of Every Holiday“

An easy-listening, guitar-backed track that celebrates multi-denominational holidays with family at its center. This warm acoustic sound works perfectly for family gathering vlogs and heartfelt holiday moments.

❄️ Listen to and download “The Heart of Every Holiday” on Thematic.

2. Caroline Manning – “That One Christmas Song“

A classic (and Gen-Z approved) Christmas pop song filled with snow, mistletoe and hot cocoa! Perfect for upbeat shopping hauls, decorating montages, and energetic holiday content.

❄️ Listen to and download “That One Christmas Song” on Thematic.

3. OH ROSA – “Christmas Satellite“

Even when you’re far away, there is still Vlogmas and Christmas cheer! This indie track captures the bittersweet feeling of holiday distance while maintaining an optimistic vibe.

❄️ Listen to and download “Christmas Satellite” on Thematic.

4. Alex Crichton – “Merry Christmas, i miss you“

This indie pop-rock song captures the quieter side of the holidays – reflective, emotional, and perfect for cozy Vlogmas moments when you’re feeling a little sentimental.

❄️ Listen to and download “Merry Christmas, i miss you” on Thematic.

5. Damien Sebe – “winter magic“

This song brings a warm holiday glow with a feel-good blend of chill lo-fi and whimsical charm. Perfect for morning routines, coffee shop visits, and peaceful winter moments.

❄️ Listen to and download “winter magic” on Thematic.

6. The Legendary Ghost – “Merry Christmas“

It’s not quite Christmas in Hollis, but still a hip-hop holiday with these Santa themed bars. Adds unique energy to gift wrapping sessions and upbeat holiday activities.

❄️ Listen to and download “Merry Christmas” on Thematic.

7. Zachary Friederich – “On Christmas Night“

Jingle bells meets soft alt-rock on Christmas night. This track bridges traditional Christmas sounds with modern indie vibes for a fresh take on holiday music.

❄️ Listen to and download “On Christmas Night” on Thematic.

8. Reggie San Miguel – “Frosty“

Cool synth pads and a calming flute melody capture the image of frosty window panes and freshly fallen snow. Excellent for peaceful winter walk vlogs and ambient holiday scenes.

❄️ Listen to and download “Frosty” on Thematic.

9. Damien Sebe – “chimney“

Perfect for holiday gift exchanges or hanging stockings by the fire with friends and family! This cozy track enhances intimate family moments and traditional holiday activities.

❄️ Listen to and download “chimney” on Thematic.

10. goosetaf & timothy infinite – “Coziest Time“

Like the name suggests, maximum warm and cozy lo-fi vibes for Vlogmas and beyond. The ultimate soundtrack for blanket-wrapped hot chocolate sessions and hygge-inspired content.

❄️ Listen to and download “Coziest Time” on Thematic.

Vlogmas Music Trends for 2025

This year’s youtube Vlogmas music trends lean heavily into lo-fi Christmas beats and indie holiday pop. Creators are moving away from overly traditional Christmas sounds in favor of modern, atmospheric tracks that feel authentic and personal. The rise of “cozy content” has made warm, understated music for Vlogmas more popular than high-energy pop tracks. Additionally, instrumental Vlogmas background music is gaining traction as creators prioritize clear audio for voiceovers and natural sound capture during holiday activities.

Genre diversity is also key – successful Vlogmas creators mix upbeat tracks for morning routines and shopping trips with calming instrumentals for evening wind-downs and reflective moments. This variety keeps viewers engaged across all 25 days without the soundtrack feeling repetitive.

How Music Affects Viewer Retention in Holiday Vlogs

The right Vlogmas soundtrack can significantly impact your viewer retention rates. Studies show that well-chosen background music increases watch time by up to 30% because it creates emotional connection and maintains pacing throughout longer videos. For Vlogmas specifically, music helps bridge potentially slower moments (like commutes or setup time) keeping viewers engaged even during less visually dynamic content.

Music also establishes your channel’s holiday brand. When viewers hear similar vibes across your December uploads, it creates consistency and anticipation. They begin associating certain sounds with your content, making them more likely to return for the next day’s vlog. Strategic music placement during intros, transitions, and outros also helps with YouTube’s algorithm, as these moments are critical for retention metrics.

The emotional resonance of Christmas music triggers nostalgia and warm feelings that viewers associate with your channel, building stronger creator-audience connections throughout the holiday season.

Vlogmas Music FAQs

Can I use any Christmas music for Vlogmas?

No. Traditional Christmas songs are copyrighted and will trigger Content ID claims on YouTube, blocking monetization. Always use copyright-free music from platforms like Thematic to protect your channel.

Is Thematic music really free for Vlogmas videos?

Yes. Thematic provides completely free, copyright-cleared music for YouTube and social media creators. No subscription fees, no attribution required, and all songs are cleared for monetization.

How do I download these Vlogmas songs?

Sign up for a free Thematic account, browse the Vlogmas collection, and download songs directly. All music is pre-cleared for YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and social media.

How to Use Free Music for Vlogmas Videos

Getting started with copyright-free vlogmas songs from Thematic is simple:

Step 1: Create Your Free Account
Sign up for Thematic – no credit card required. The platform is designed specifically for content creators who need safe, high-quality music.

Step 2: Browse and Download
Search for “Vlogmas” or “Christmas” in the Thematic library. Preview tracks to find songs that match your video’s mood, then download in high-quality format.

Step 3: Add to Your Video Editor
Import your chosen royalty-free christmas music into your editing software (Premiere Pro, Final Cut, DaVinci Resolve, or even mobile apps like CapCut). Layer the music under your dialogue and adjust levels so your voice remains clear.

Step 4: Export and Upload Safely
Upload to YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok with confidence knowing your music is fully cleared for monetization. No Content ID claims, no copyright strikes. This simple workflow ensures you’re using safe music for Vlogmas that protects your channel.

Discover More Free Music for Vlogmas

We hope you enjoyed our playlist of the top 10 songs for Vlogmas 🎄

Discover even more of our favorite music for Vlogmas in our curated Vlogmas Music playlist on Thematic, featuring more copyright-free Christmas songs perfect for daily December content.

You may also enjoy our YouTube playlist featuring even more Christmas and holiday songs that provide the perfect vlogmas soundtrack for the entire season.

Thematic has the largest collection of free music for Vlogmas videos and all your YouTube and social media content. Every track is copyright-free and royalty-free, giving you unlimited creative freedom for holiday content creation.

🎁 Get Your Free Vlogmas Music → Sign up for a free Thematic account to access the best copyright-free songs for the Vlogmas season. No credit card required, start downloading today.

Looking for more Thematic music recommendations for your videos? Enjoy our playlist of the best aesthetic music artists and songs for YouTube videos.

Did we miss any of the top songs for vlogs? Drop us a line at @hellothematic on Twitter or Instagram!

Podcasting has exploded in popularity – but what’s changing the game is YouTube. Once known mainly for videos, YouTube has quickly become one of the most powerful platforms for podcasters to grow, monetize, and connect visually with their audiences.

Whether you already host a podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, or you’re just starting out, YouTube offers a massive opportunity to turn your audio content into visual engagement (and get discovered by millions of new listeners (and viewers)).

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about how to start podcasting on YouTube, how to format and optimize your episodes for YouTube’s algorithm, and how to monetize your show effectively. You’ll also discover how to use Thematic to find copyright-safe, trending music to elevate your video podcasts and keep your channel free from copyright strikes.

Let’s dive in.

Table of Contents:

1. Why Podcasting on YouTube Is a Game-Changer
2. What Kind of Podcasts Work Best on YouTube?
3. How to Turn Your Audio Podcast into a YouTube-Ready Format
4. Creating Engaging Visuals for Audio-First Content
5. Optimizing Your Podcast for YouTube SEO
6. Using Copyright-Safe Music from Thematic
7. Monetization and Growth Strategies for YouTube Podcasters
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Podcasting on YouTube
9. What Are the Disadvantages of Having a Podcast?
10. FAQs about Podcasting on YouTube
11. Final Thoughts

Why Podcasting on YouTube Is a Game-Changer

YouTube isn’t just a video platform anymore – it’s now a leading destination for podcasts. The platform even launched a dedicated Podcasts section in YouTube Music, allowing creators to publish and monetize long-form audio content easily.

Here’s why that’s huge: YouTube combines the search power of Google with the visual and emotional impact of video. That means your podcast can be discovered by both listeners and viewers.

Key Benefits of Podcasting on YouTube:

• Wider Reach: Tap into 2 billion+ users, many of whom don’t use traditional podcast apps.
• Better Engagement: Audiences can like, comment, and share directly.
• Search Discoverability: YouTube videos often rank in Google search results.
• Visual Storytelling: Add emotional connection through facial expressions and visuals.
• Monetization Potential: YouTube’s Partner Program, memberships, and sponsorships make it a revenue-friendly platform.

✅ Pro Tip: Even if you already have your podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, uploading episodes to YouTube can double your discoverability with very little extra effort.

What Kind of Podcasts Work Best on YouTube?

While almost any podcast can thrive on YouTube, certain formats perform especially well due to their visual storytelling potential and audience engagement style.

Top Performing Podcast Formats on YouTube

• Interview Podcasts: Seeing guests’ reactions and expressions adds authenticity.
• Educational/How-To Podcasts: Visual aids make complex topics easier to follow.
• Pop Culture or Commentary Shows: Benefit from visual clips, memes, and reactions.
• Storytelling or True Crime: Dramatic visuals, photos, or timelines enhance immersion.
• Lifestyle and Wellness Podcasts: Visuals help demonstrate techniques or routines.

You don’t need a full studio setup to succeed – even a simple video overlay or looping background can make your show more watchable.

How to Turn Your Audio Podcast into a YouTube-Ready Format

If you already have an audio podcast, great, you’re halfway there. Turning it into a YouTube-friendly version is easier than you might think.

Step 1: Choose Your Podcast Format

You can start with one of two main styles:

• Video Podcast: Record yourself and/or your guests on camera.
• Audio-Only Podcast: Use static visuals, album art, or animated waveforms.

Both options work – what matters most is clarity, consistency, and connection.

Step 2: Record High-Quality Audio

Invest in a good microphone. Viewers will forgive low-budget visuals, but not poor sound quality. Tools like Shure MV7 or Blue Yeti mics offer professional sound on a budget.

Step 3: Add Simple Visuals

If you don’t film your podcast, you can still:

• Add your logo or episode artwork.
• Create a looping animation or waveform.
• Use relevant images to emphasize key points.

Step 4: Edit and Upload

Use tools like Descript, Riverside.fm, or Adobe Premiere to sync your audio and visuals. Then, upload to your YouTube channel, add timestamps, and create a playlist titled “Podcast.”

✅ Pro Tip: Include your podcast name and episode number in the video title (e.g., “Ep. 23 | The Creator Mindset Podcast”).

Creating Engaging Visuals for Audio-First Content

Visual engagement is the secret weapon that transforms a passive listener into an active viewer.Even if your podcast is primarily audio-driven, a little visual effort goes a long way.

Ways to Create Engaging Visuals

• Show Behind-the-Scenes Moments: Viewers love authenticity – record your setup, prep, or post-show reactions.
• Use B-Roll Footage: Add clips that illustrate your story or topic.
• Display On-Screen Quotes: Highlight powerful soundbites or guest insights.
• Add Captions and Subtitles: Improve accessibility and watch time.
• Incorporate Brand Elements: Consistent color palettes and title cards build recognition.

✅ Pro Tip: Create short highlight reels or YouTube Shorts of your podcast moments – these microclips are perfect for driving discovery.

Optimizing Your Podcast for YouTube SEO

SEO is your podcast’s best friend on YouTube. Optimizing helps your episodes surface in both YouTube and Google search results. This section breaks down how to get discovered faster and attract long-term viewers.

YouTube SEO Essentials for Podcasters

1. Include Keywords in Your Title
   Example: “Podcasting on YouTube: How to Grow Your Audience with Video.”
2. Write Detailed Descriptions
   Summarize the episode, include guest names, and link to your website or socials.
3. Use Tags and Hashtags
   Add relevant tags like #podcasting, #YouTubePodcast, and your show’s name.
4. Add Subtitles or Captions
   Increases accessibility and helps YouTube index your content accurately.
5. Engage in the Comments
   YouTube favors content that drives conversation and retention.

✅ Pro Tip: Write clear, structured descriptions – this makes your episodes easier for LLMs (like ChatGPT and Google Gemini) to quote, summarize, and recommend.

Use Copyright-Safe Music from Thematic for Podcasts

Music sets the tone of your episode. But on YouTube, copyright issues can derail your momentum fast. Using copyrighted songs can trigger claims, demonetization, or even content removal.

That’s why creators trust Thematic to source trending, copyright-safe tracks that fit their vibe perfectly.

Why Thematic Works for Podcasters:

• 🎵 Access trending, copyright-safe music – used by thousands of creators.
• 💸 Stay monetized – no risk of takedowns or ad restrictions.
• ⏱️ Save time editing – find the perfect soundtrack in seconds.
• 💫 Match your brand vibe – with curated songs that fit your podcast’s tone and theme.

Add Thematic tracks to your YouTube intros, outros, or highlight reels to instantly elevate your sound (without worrying about copyright headaches).

Discover Thematic’s top music picks for podcasters in our Top 10 Royalty-Free Songs for Podcasts list or browse curated podcast music playlists to find your perfect soundtrack.

👉 Dive into our guide on the best practices on using music in podcast episodes here.

Monetization and Growth Strategies for YouTube Podcasters

Once your show finds traction, YouTube opens doors for both creative and financial growth. In this section, we’ll explore how podcasters make money and expand their brand using YouTube’s ecosystem.

Do Podcasts on YouTube Make Money?

Yes! Many podcasters monetize through:

• YouTube Ad Revenue: Join the YouTube Partner Program once you hit 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours.
• Sponsorships & Brand Deals: Partner with brands relevant to your niche.
• Affiliate Marketing: Earn a commission for recommending tools or products.
• Channel Memberships: Offer perks like exclusive content or shoutouts.
• Merch Sales: Use YouTube Shopping integrations to sell your merch.

Strategies to Grow Your Audience

• Post Consistently: Stick to a predictable upload schedule.
• Engage with Comments: Build relationships with your viewers.
• Promote Clips on Shorts: Short-form snippets attract new listeners fast.
• Collaborate with Other Creators: Guest swaps or co-hosted episodes expand reach.
• Optimize Thumbnails & Titles: Make them clear, emotional, and searchable.

✅ Pro Tip: Reuse your YouTube podcast episodes as blog posts, TikToks, and Instagram Reels to boost discoverability.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Podcasting on YouTube

Even experienced podcasters can make small missteps that limit growth.

Avoid these pitfalls when podcasting on YouTube to stay ahead:

• ❌ Uploading full episodes with no visuals or timestamps.
• ❌ Ignoring thumbnails or titles (they drive clicks!)
• ❌ Forgetting to optimize descriptions and tags.
• ❌ Using copyrighted background music.
• ❌ Neglecting audience engagement post-upload.

Consistency, creativity, and community-building are key to long-term success.

✅ Pro Tip: Keep your intros short – get straight into the content to hook your audience fast.

What Are the Disadvantages of Having a Podcast?

While podcasting is powerful, it’s not without challenges. Let’s explore some of the potential reasons why you may not want to start podcasting on YouTube.

Potential Drawbacks

• Time Investment: Recording, editing, and promoting each episode can be time-intensive.
• Consistency Pressure: You need to publish regularly to grow.
• Equipment Costs: Good audio quality requires at least a decent mic setup.
• Slow Growth Curve: Building a loyal listener base takes time and patience.

Still, the visual format of podcasting on YouTube helps offset many of these disadvantages – offering faster discoverability, algorithmic reach, and more monetization paths than traditional podcasting alone.

At the end of the day, these challenges aren’t deal-breakers – they’re simply part of the creative growth curve.

FAQs about Podcasting on YouTube

Getting started can feel overwhelming, but you likely have a few key questions swirling in your mind. We’ve compiled a list of common questions from aspiring podcasters just like you, offering quick, actionable answers to help you on your journey to start a podcast.

Can I post my podcast audio directly on YouTube?

Yes! You can upload an audio-only version with a static image or visualizer. But adding video or visuals significantly increases engagement.

How long should my YouTube podcast episodes be?

There’s no one-size-fits-all rule. Full episodes can range from 20 minutes to over an hour, while short clips (1–5 minutes) are great for discovery.

What’s the best way to promote my YouTube podcast?

Share episode clips on Shorts, collaborate with other creators, and use SEO-optimized titles and descriptions.

Do I need special equipment to start?

A quality microphone and camera help, but even smartphones can record great content. Focus on clarity and consistency first.

How do I add music legally to my podcast?

Use copyright-safe platforms like [Thematic](LINK TO THEMATIC FREE MUSIC PLATFORM) to avoid takedowns and keep your videos monetized.

Can I do a podcast on YouTube?

Yes! Anyone can start a podcast on YouTube. You can record video while podcasting or simply upload your audio paired with a visual (like a cover image or waveform). YouTube even has a dedicated “Podcasts” tab for creators to publish and organize their shows.

Is It Worth Putting Your Podcast on YouTube?

Absolutely. Repurposing your podcast for YouTube gives you access to a massive new audience and helps boost your visibility in Google search results. You also gain access to community features like comments, polls, and live chat that make your podcast more interactive and personal.

The payoff? More engagement, brand growth, and monetization opportunities (without having to reinvent your entire show).

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Podcast on YouTube?

Anywhere from $100–$500, depending on your setup. You can start with basic gear and free tools, then upgrade as you grow.

Is YouTube a Good Place for Podcasts?

Yes! YouTube is one of the best platforms for podcasts because of its built-in discovery tools, audience analytics, and monetization options. Many of the world’s top shows (like “The Diary of a CEO” and “The Joe Budden Podcast”) are thriving there because it bridges the gap between traditional audio and visual entertainment.

Final Thoughts on Podcasting on YouTube

Podcasting on YouTube bridges the gap between audio storytelling and visual connection – giving your show the power to reach new audiences, spark engagement, and grow faster than ever.

Start by repurposing what you already have, experiment with visuals, and build a community that listens, watches, and interacts with your brand.

And when it’s time to level up your audio, turn to Thematic for free, trending, copyright-safe music that keeps your YouTube channel protected and professional.

Happy podcasting!

We hope you enjoyed our ultimate guide on how to start podcasting on YouTube ✌️If you’re looking for more creator tools and resources, visit Thematic’s Creator Toolkit for additional resources on creating content – including starting a YouTube channel, thumbnail and channel art templates, best practices, and of course, great royalty free songs to use in your videos for free with Thematic.

This Guide on How to Start Podcasting on YouTube is brought to you by Thematic Director of Partnerships, Stephanie Leyva

Stephanie Leyva sits at the intersection of music artists and content creators. As the Director of Partnerships at Thematic, Stephanie has worked extensively with the artist and creator community on the site to ensure success digitally, on the platform, and support their initiatives.

Over the past few years, she has led numerous trending music-driven influencer marketing campaigns for “Glitter” and “Supalonely (feat. Gus Dapperton” by BENEE, “Loneliness for Love” by Lovelytheband, “Checklist (feat. Chromeo)” by MAX and so many more. She’s worked alongside various labels such as Casablanca Records, Republic Records and Sony Music. Focused on empowering connections between content creators and music artists, Stephanie continues to lead the charge in innovative music discovery through social.

Stephanie is also the creator of the Bloom In Progress podcast – a podcast about personal growth, relationships and navigating life in your 20’s.

Ready to start a podcast? You’re in the right place. Starting a podcast in 2026 is easier than you think, and you don’t need expensive equipment or technical expertise to get started.

Podcasting has exploded in popularity over the past few years, with over 460 million podcast listeners worldwide. Whether you want to share your expertise, interview interesting people, build a personal brand, or simply have conversations about topics you love, podcasting is one of the best ways to build an audience and connect with people who share your interests.

The barriers to entry have never been lower. With a basic microphone, free software, and a clear idea, you can launch a professional-sounding podcast from your home and reach listeners around the globe.

In this beginner-friendly guide, you’ll learn:

• How to choose your podcast topic and format
• What equipment you actually need (hint: less than you think)
• How to record and edit your episodes
• Where to publish your podcast so people can find it
• Simple ways to promote your show and grow your audience
• How to add music legally without copyright issues
• When and how to start making money from your podcast

By the end of this guide, you’ll be ready to launch your first episode with confidence. No overwhelm, no confusion – just clear, actionable steps.

Let’s get started. 🎙️

Table of Contents

1. Choose Your Podcast Topic & Format
2. Get the Right Equipment
3. Record & Edit Your Podcast
4. Publish Your Podcast
5. Promote & Grow Your Audience
6. Make Money from Your Podcast
7. Stay Legal with Music & Guests
8. Common Questions Answered

Step 1: Choose Your Podcast Topic & Format

Pick a Topic You Can Talk About Consistently

The first step to start a podcast is choosing what your show will be about. The best topics combine your genuine interest with what people want to hear.

Here’s how to find your topic:

1. List things you enjoy talking about. What topics do you constantly read about or discuss with friends? What do people ask you for advice about?
2. Check if others are interested. Search for these topics on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Existing podcasts mean there’s an audience – that’s a good sign, not a bad one.
3. Pick something specific. Instead of “fitness,” try “running for beginners” or “home workouts for busy moms.” Specific topics help you stand out and attract dedicated listeners.
4. Test your idea. Can you easily think of 10-15 episode topics? If yes, you probably have a sustainable podcast idea. If you struggle to come up with episodes, your topic might be too narrow or not aligned with your interests.

Popular podcast categories that work well:

• True crime and mystery
• Business and entrepreneurship
• Health and wellness
• Personal finance
• Comedy and entertainment
• Technology
• Self-improvement
• Pop culture and reviews

✅ Pro Tip: Choose a topic you can talk about week after week without running out of ideas. If you struggle to think of 10 episode ideas, your topic might be too narrow.

Choose Your Podcast Format

• Solo Show: Just you talking. Great if you like having full control and don’t want to coordinate schedules.

• Interview Show: You chat with different guests. Good for networking and bringing in diverse perspectives.

• Co-Hosted Show: You and a partner host together. Creates natural conversation and makes recording more fun.

• Narrative/Storytelling: Scripted episodes with production. More work but very engaging for listeners.

Start with whatever feels most natural. You can always change your format later as you figure out what works best for you and your audience.

Name Your Podcast

Keep it short (2-4 words), easy to spell, and hint at what your podcast is about. Avoid being too clever if it sacrifices clarity – you want people to immediately understand your topic.

Good examples:

• “The Daily” (daily news)
• “How I Built This” (business stories)
• “Crime Junkie” (true crime)

Search Apple Podcasts and Spotify to make sure your name isn’t already taken before you commit.

Step 2: Get the Right Equipment for Podcasting

Good news: You don’t need to spend a fortune to have a great sounding podcast. You can start a podcast for under $100 with high quality audio.

Best Microphones for Beginners

Budget-Friendly ($50-100):

• Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB ($79): Great sound, plugs into your computer
• Samson Q2U ($60): Affordable and reliable
• Blue Yeti ($100): Very popular, easy to use

Start with a USB microphone. You can upgrade later if needed.

Set Up Your Recording Space

Record in a quiet, small room. Add blankets or pillows to reduce echo. Turn off noisy appliances. That’s it.

✅ Pro Tip: Test your space by recording 30 seconds and listening back. If you hear echo, add more soft materials.

Recording & Editing Software

Free Options:

• Audacity (Windows, Mac): Does everything you need
• GarageBand (Mac): Easy to learn, built into Apple computers
• Anchor (Mobile app): Record right from your phone

Start with free software. Upgrade later if you want more features.

Get Music for Your Podcast

Music and sound effects transform your podcast from amateur to professional. Intro music, outro music, and transition sounds create a polished, branded listening experience.

❌ However, using copyrighted music without permission can lead to serious consequences:

• Copyright strikes and takedown notices
• Legal claims and expensive fines
• Removal from podcast directories

You need copyright-safe music from licensed sources.

This is where Thematic becomes invaluable for podcasters.

Thematic offers thousands of high-quality, copyright-safe music tracks and sound effects specifically curated for content creators. Unlike generic stock music libraries, Thematic’s catalog is designed for podcasters, YouTubers, and video creators who need professional audio without the legal risk.

😍 Why podcasters choose Thematic:

• No copyright worries
• Affordable subscription with unlimited downloads
• Organized by mood and style
• New music added regularly

Sign up for Thematic and instantly access copyright-safe music for your podcast intro, outro, and transitions.

👉 Read our complete guide on best practices for using music in podcast episodes.

Step 3: Record & Edit Your Podcast

How to Record Your First Episode

Before you hit record:

1. Write an outline with your main points (you don’t need a full script)
2. Test your microphone (record 30 seconds and play it back)
3. Silence your phone and eliminate distractions
4. Have water nearby to avoid mouth clicks
5. Sit up straight (good posture improves voice quality)

During recording:

• Speak clearly and naturally, like you’re talking to a friend
• Don’t worry about mistakes, you can edit them out later
• If you mess up, pause for 2 seconds, then restart that sentence
• Leave a few seconds of silence at the beginning and end for easier editing

✅ Pro Tip: Your first episode won’t be perfect, and that’s okay! Every successful podcaster started rough. You’ll improve with each episode.

Basic Editing Tips

Editing makes your raw recording sound polished. Don’t over-edit – some natural pauses and personality are good.

Essential edits:

1. Remove long pauses – Cut silences longer than 2-3 seconds
2. Delete major mistakes – Remove stumbles and excessive “um” sounds
3. Balance volume – Make sure everything sounds consistent
4. Add music – Include your intro music at the start and outro at the end
5. Export as MP3 – Most podcast hosts want MP3 format

Most beginners spend 2-3 hours editing a 30-minute episode. It gets much faster with practice and eventually you’ll edit in near real-time.

Create Your Podcast Cover Art

Your cover art is the visual first impression. It needs to look good even at small thumbnail size on phones.

Requirements:

• Size: 3000 x 3000 pixels (square)
• Bold, readable fonts
• Simple design, avoid clutter
• Include your podcast name

Where to design:

• Canva (free templates)
• Adobe Express (free)
• Fiverr ($20-50 to hire someone)

✅ Pro Tip: Look at the top 10 podcasts in your category. Notice what their cover art has in common? Learn from success.

Step 4: Publish Your Podcast

What is Podcast Hosting?

A podcast host stores your audio files and distributes them to Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other apps. You can’t upload directly to these platforms, you need a host first.

Best Podcast Hosts for Beginners

• Buzzsprout ($12-24/month): Beginner-friendly with great support. Free plan available to test.

• Anchor (Free): Completely free, owned by Spotify. Good for tight budgets.

• Libsyn ($5-25/month): Reliable, unlimited storage. Used by many professionals.

Start with whichever fits your budget. You can switch later if needed.

Submit to Apple Podcasts & Spotify

Apple Podcasts:

1. Get your RSS feed from your host
2. Go to podcasters.apple.com
3. Sign in and add your RSS feed
4. Wait for approval (24-48 hours)

Spotify:

1. Get your RSS feed
2. Go to podcasters.spotify.com
3. Add your feed
4. Approval usually takes a few hours

✅ Pro Tip: You only need 1-3 episodes to submit. Get your podcast live as soon as possible!

Step 5: Promote & Grow Your Audience

Getting Your First Listeners

Start with people you know:

• Tell friends and family about your new podcast
• Share on all your social media accounts
• Post in relevant Facebook groups, Reddit communities, or online forums (provide value, don’t spam)
• Email your contacts if you have an email list

Ask for reviews: At the end of each episode, ask listeners to leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Reviews significantly improve your ranking in podcast directories and help new listeners discover your show. Make it easy by explaining exactly how to leave a review.

Simple Social Media Strategies

Pick 1-2 platforms where your target audience spends time. Don’t spread yourself too thin trying to be everywhere.

Instagram:

• Share short video clips from your episodes (audiograms)
• Post quote graphics with compelling snippets
• Share behind-the-scenes content in Stories
• Use relevant hashtags like #podcast and #[yourniche]

TikTok:

• Create 15-60 second clips from your best moments
• Show your recording setup and process
• Jump on trending sounds when relevant to your topic

X (Twitter):

• Share episode announcements with brief, compelling descriptions
• Tweet interesting quotes or insights from episodes
• Engage with others in your niche

YouTube:

• Upload full episodes (even audio-only with a static image works)
• Create YouTube Shorts from episode highlights
• Benefits from YouTube’s massive search traffic

Content ideas that work:

• Episode teaser clips (30-60 seconds of the best moment)
• “Behind the mic” photos or videos
• Key takeaways or lessons from each episode
• Polls asking your audience what they want to hear next

✅ Pro Tip: Consistency matters more than perfection. Post 2-3 times per week, even if it’s just announcing new episodes. Over time, you’ll discover what resonates.

Guest on Other Podcasts

One of the fastest growth strategies is appearing as a guest on other podcasts in your niche. Their listeners already love podcast content and might become your fans too.

How to get booked:

1. Make a list of 10-20 podcasts similar to yours that feature guests
2. Send a friendly pitch explaining who you are and 3-5 specific topics you could discuss
3. Start with smaller podcasts (under 10,000 downloads) – they’re more likely to say yes
4. During the interview, focus on providing tremendous value (not just promoting your show)
5. Share the episode when it goes live to thank the host and cross-promote

Step 6: Make Money from Your Podcast

You can start monetizing your podcast earlier than you think (you don’t need thousands of listeners).

Simple Ways to Monetize Podcasts

• Affiliate Marketing: Recommend products you use and earn commissions. Sign up for Amazon Associates or specific brand programs.

• Listener Support: Ask your audience to support you on Patreon or Buy Me a Coffee. Offer bonus episodes or ad-free content.

• Sponsorships: Companies pay you to mention their products. Usually need 1,000+ downloads per episode.

• Selling Your Own Products: Use your podcast to promote coaching, courses, or merchandise.

✅ Pro Tip: Start with affiliate marketing and listener support right away. Add sponsorships once you have consistent downloads.

Step 7: Stay Legal with Music & Guests

Using Music Legally

You cannot use popular songs from Spotify or Apple Music in your podcast without permission. This can get your podcast removed and cause legal trouble.

The solution: Use copyright-safe music from Thematic ✔️

Thematic provides thousands of tracks that are 100% safe for podcasts – no copyright strikes, no legal issues.

Get started with Thematic and access professional podcast music.

• Explore our Top 10 Royalty-Free Songs for Podcasts
• Browse curated podcast music playlists to find your perfect soundtrack

Guest Release Forms

If you interview people, have them sign a guest release form. This gives you permission to record and publish their voice. Find free templates online or use DocuSign for digital signatures.

✅ Pro Tip: Send the release form before recording. Most guests expect this (it’s standard practice).

FAQs about How to Start a Podcast

New to podcasting? Here are answers to the most common questions about how to start a podcast.

How long should a podcast episode be?

It depends on your content, but most podcasts are 20-60 minutes. Daily shows can be 5-15 minutes, while in-depth interviews run 45-60+ minutes. The key is keeping listeners engaged – don’t artificially stretch or cut content.

✅ Pro Tip: Look at popular podcasts in your niche to see what length your audience expects.

How often should I release episodes?

Consistency matters more than frequency. Most podcasters release weekly – it’s sustainable long-term and keeps you visible. Bi-weekly works for highly produced shows, daily for short episodes, monthly for deeply researched content.

✅ Pro Tip: Batch-record 3-4 episodes before launch to create a buffer.

What’s the minimum budget to start a podcast?

You can start a podcast for under $100: a USB microphone ($50-100), free software (Audacity/GarageBand), free hosting (Anchor), and copyright-safe music ($0-10/month on Thematic). Total: $50-110.

Do I need to be an expert?

No! Many successful podcasters learn alongside their audience. You need genuine curiosity, willingness to research, and an authentic perspective. If you interview experts, your role is asking great questions, not having all the answers.

How many listeners do I need to make money?

You can start with 100-500 engaged listeners using affiliate marketing and listener support (Patreon). Sponsorships typically need 1,000+ downloads per episode. Focus on building genuine connections over chasing numbers.

Can I start a podcast on my phone?

Yes! Use Voice Memos to record and the Anchor app for hosting and editing. Audio quality won’t be as professional, but it’s fine for testing. Once you commit, invest in a USB microphone ($50-100) to improve sound quality.

How do I come up with episode ideas?

For interviews, list 50 people you’d love to talk to. For solo shows, answer common questions in your niche (check Reddit, Quora, or Google’s “People Also Ask”), share lessons from your experience, or create series on specific topics. Keep a running list on your phone when ideas pop up.

Ready to Start a Podcast?

You now have everything you need to start a podcast today. Let’s recap the key steps:

1. Choose your topic and format – Pick something you’re passionate about
2. Get basic equipment – A decent USB microphone and free software
3. Record and edit – Don’t overthink it, just start
4. Publish to directories – Get on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
5. Promote consistently – Share on social media and tell people about it
6. Monetize when ready – Start with affiliate links and listener support
7. Use legal music – Protect yourself with copyright-safe tracks

The most important thing? Just start.

Your first episode won’t be perfect. That’s completely okay. Every successful podcaster started exactly where you are now. The only difference is they hit record and kept going.

Don’t wait for the perfect equipment, the perfect topic, or the perfect anything. Start with what you have, learn as you go, and improve with each episode.

Get Copyright-Safe Music for Your Podcast

Don’t let music licensing hold you back. Sign up for Thematic and get instant access to thousands of podcast-ready tracks.

The world is waiting to hear what you have to say. Start a podcast today! 🎙️

We hope you enjoyed our ultimate guide on how to start a podcast ✌️If you’re looking for more creator tools and resources, visit Thematic’s Creator Toolkit for additional resources on creating content – including starting a YouTube channel, thumbnail and channel art templates, best practices, and of course, great royalty free songs to use in your videos for free with Thematic.

This Ultimate Guide on How to Start a Podcast is brought to you by Thematic Director of Partnerships, Stephanie Leyva

Stephanie Leyva sits at the intersection of music artists and content creators. As the Director of Partnerships at Thematic, Stephanie has worked extensively with the artist and creator community on the site to ensure success digitally, on the platform, and support their initiatives.

Over the past few years, she has led numerous trending music-driven influencer marketing campaigns for “Glitter” and “Supalonely (feat. Gus Dapperton” by BENEE, “Loneliness for Love” by Lovelytheband, “Checklist (feat. Chromeo)” by MAX and so many more. She’s worked alongside various labels such as Casablanca Records, Republic Records and Sony Music. Focused on empowering connections between content creators and music artists, Stephanie continues to lead the charge in innovative music discovery through social.

Stephanie is also the creator of the Bloom In Progress podcast – a podcast about personal growth, relationships and navigating life in your 20’s.

Consistency is one of the most talked-about “secrets” to success on YouTube (and for good reason). Regular uploads build audience trust, teach the algorithm to expect new content from your channel, and give you more opportunities to be discovered.

But here’s the challenge: staying consistent without burning out is hard. Between brainstorming, scripting, filming, editing, optimizing for SEO, making thumbnails, and posting, creators often feel like they’re sprinting to keep up. That’s where a YouTube content calendar becomes a game-changer.

A YouTube content calendar is more than just dates on a page – it’s a strategic planning tool that helps you map out your video ideas, organize production workflows, and schedule uploads across YouTube’s ecosystem (from long-form videos to Shorts and Community posts). It keeps you ahead of the curve so you’re never scrambling at the last minute or leaving growth up to chance.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to create a YouTube content calendar that actually works – including strategy, structure, workflows, tools, and a free Google Sheets template you can start using today.

YouTube Content Calendar 101 – Table of Contents

• What is a YouTube Content Calendar?
• Why You Need One (Benefits)
• Steps to Build Your Calendar
• Tools & Free Template
• Track & Optimize Your Schedule
• FAQs

What Is a YouTube Content Calendar?

A YouTube content calendar is your master plan for creating, scheduling, and tracking all your channel content.

Think of it as your channel’s “master plan”:

• It maps out video topics, formats, and publishing dates.
• It captures deadlines for scripting, filming, and editing.
• It highlights opportunities for engagement like Shorts or Community polls.

Here’s what a content calendar typically includes:

• Video ideas and working titles – what you plan to create
• Formats – long-form videos, Shorts, Community posts, or live streams
• Content pillars – the main categories or themes your channel focuses on
• Production tasks – scripting, filming, editing, thumbnails, music selection
• Publish dates – scheduling uploads on specific days and times
• Promotion plan – sharing on social media, newsletters, or collaborations
• Performance tracking – views, watch time, CTR, and audience retention

Why You Need A YouTube Content Calendar

A content calendar is not just a schedule – it’s a tool to grow, organize, and optimize your channel.

Many creators start by posting videos sporadically, relying on inspiration or spare time. While this approach may work in the short term, it often leads to inconsistent uploads, missed trends, and creative burnout. A YouTube content calendar solves these problems by providing structure and foresight.

Key benefits of using a content calendar:

1. Consistency Fuels Growth
   Regular uploads signal to both your audience and YouTube’s algorithm that your channel is active. Predictable scheduling builds trust and increases discoverability.
2. Smarter Planning for Trends and Events
   With a calendar, you can align content with seasonal trends, product launches, or popular topics in your niche. This ensures your videos are timely and relevant.
3. Reduced Stress and Better Time Management
   Planning ahead breaks your workflow into manageable steps: research, scripting, filming, editing, and promotion. You can batch tasks, avoid last-minute scrambles, and free up creative energy.
4. Balanced and Varied Content
   A calendar helps maintain a healthy mix of video and content types (long-form tutorials, Shorts, and Community posts) so your channel remains engaging and diverse.
5. Data-Driven Decisions
   Tracking content performance directly in your calendar makes it easy to see which formats, topics, or posting times work best. You can then refine your strategy for maximum growth.
6. Improved Collaboration
   If you work with editors, designers, or other team members, a shared calendar keeps everyone aligned on deadlines and responsibilities.

👉 In short: A YouTube content calendar is both a planning and tracking tool. It saves time, reduces stress, keeps content varied and consistent, and gives you actionable insights for growing your channel strategically.

How to Create a YouTube Content Calendar

Creating a content calendar might sound intimidating at first, but it’s really about turning your ideas into a structured, actionable plan. By mapping out your videos, Shorts, and Community posts in advance, you can stay consistent, reduce stress, and make smarter decisions about what to publish and when.

A well-planned calendar also helps you balance different types of content, track deadlines, and coordinate any collaborators or team members involved in your production process. Think of it as a blueprint for your channel’s growth – it ensures every video has a purpose, aligns with your goals, and fits into a cohesive publishing strategy.

Below, we’ll break down a step-by-step approach to building a calendar that works for any creator, whether you’re just starting or looking to scale your channel.

Step 1: Define Your Content Strategy

Your calendar is only as strong as the strategy behind it. Before you start plotting dates, clarify:

• Who’s your target audience? Be specific: “new filmmakers learning to edit” or “fitness beginners looking for at-home workouts.”
• What’s your channel’s value? Do you teach, entertain, inspire, or a mix?
• What are your content pillars? These are categories that define your channel. For example:
  • Tutorials (educational value)
  • Behind-the-scenes (authentic connection)
  • Reviews (authority + monetization opportunities)
  • Lifestyle vlogs (personality-driven content)

When you know your pillars, your calendar will naturally reflect a balance, keeping your content diverse but on-brand.

Step 2: Map Out Your Upload Frequency & Format

Consistency doesn’t mean “as much as possible.” It means predictable uploads that you can sustain long-term.

Here’s a framework many creators find helpful:

• Long-form videos: 1–2 per week. These are your channel’s anchor content.
• YouTube Shorts: 2–4 per week. Shorts are discoverability machines, helping you reach new audiences.
• Community posts: 1–3 per week. These keep your subscribers engaged between uploads.

👉 Example: A fitness creator might upload one full workout video on Sundays, a Shorts highlight on Tuesdays and Fridays, and a motivational poll in the Community tab on Thursdays.

✅ Pro Tip: Align your posting days with audience behavior. Use YouTube Analytics > Audience tab to see when your viewers are most active.

Step 3: Brainstorm and Categorize Video Ideas

Ideas fuel your calendar. To avoid creative droughts, dedicate time monthly to brainstorming. Use these sources:

• YouTube Search autocomplete: Type a keyword and see what people are actually searching for.
• Analytics: Which of your videos have the highest retention or views? Make sequels, updates, or spinoffs.
• Comments and DMs: Your audience often tells you what they want directly.
• Trending content: Use Shorts, trending tabs, or platforms like TikTok for inspiration you can adapt to your niche.
• Evergreen topics: Don’t forget videos that are always relevant (how-tos, best practices, FAQs).

Once you’ve got a list, sort them under your content pillars. This ensures you’re not leaning too heavily into one type (e.g., too many tutorials, not enough personal content).

Step 4: Build Your Content Calendar Framework

Now it’s time to put pen to paper (or mouse to spreadsheet). Your framework is simply the structure you’ll follow:

1. Choose a tool (Google Sheets, Notion, Trello, Airtable).
2. Create columns for each key element (title, format, deadlines, publish date, promotion, performance).
3. Fill in your schedule based on your chosen upload frequency.

Example:

• Week 1: Long-form tutorial (Sunday), Shorts recap (Wednesday), Community poll (Friday).
• Week 2: Long-form review (Sunday), Shorts behind-the-scenes (Tuesday), Meme Community post (Thursday).

📌 Tips for Shorts & Community posts:

• Include them in the calendar alongside long-form videos.
• Use them to supplement main content, drive engagement, and experiment with trends.
• Color-code formats to quickly see the mix of content in a week or month.

✅ Pro Tip: Color-coding is your friend: use different colors for long-form YouTube videos, Shorts, and Community.

Step 5: Add Workflows & Deadlines (Production + Promotion)

Behind every upload is a workflow. Mapping this into your calendar helps you stay on track:

• Pre-production: research, scripting, storyboarding.
• Production: filming, audio, lighting.
• Post-production: editing, adding music (more on Thematic below), color grading, thumbnail design.
• Upload & optimize: title, description, tags, end screens, cards.
• Promotion: share on social, email list, collabs.

Each stage should have a deadline. Example:

• Script due: Tuesday
• Film: Wednesday
• Edit: Thursday–Friday
• Upload & schedule: Saturday
• Publish: Sunday

Deadlines prevent bottlenecks and keep your channel running smoothly.

Tools You Can Use to Create a YouTube Content Calendar

Creating a YouTube content calendar doesn’t have to be complicated. Depending on your workflow, you can use anything from a simple spreadsheet to advanced project management tools. The key is choosing a tool that lets you organize ideas, track production, and monitor performance in one place.

Popular Tools for YouTube Content Calendars

• Google Sheets or Excel Spreadsheets – Flexible, free, easy to share, and perfect for creators who want a simple, customizable calendar.
• Notion – Great for creating a database-style calendar with task management and linked content.
• Trello or Asana – Visual boards for managing workflows and collaborating with teams.
• Airtable – Combines spreadsheets and databases, with the ability to filter, sort, and automate parts of your content plan.
• TubeBuddy or VidIQ – SEO-focused tools that help with keyword research and scheduling alongside your content calendar.

Pick the one that matches your style. The best calendar is the one you’ll actually use.

Free YouTube Content Calendar Template

To save you time, we’ve created a free Google Sheets template built specifically for YouTubers. It’s designed to cover all aspects of content planning, including long-form videos, Shorts, and Community posts.

Template Features:

• Columns for video ideas, publish date, deadlines, and performance tracking.
• Sections for Shorts and Community posts so your entire weekly schedule is visible at a glance.
• Built-in workflow checklist for scripting, filming, editing, and promotion.
• Ready for customization – add your own content pillars, branding, or production notes.

👉 Download the free YouTube Content Calendar Template here

Make a copy, customize it to your channel, and start planning smarter today.

Use Thematic to Plan Music for Your Videos

One of the most time-consuming parts of production is finding music that sounds good, fits your video, and won’t trigger copyright strikes. Integrating Thematic into your content calendar workflow solves this problem.

🎵 Thematic is a music licensing platform built specifically for YouTube creators. It gives you access to pre-cleared, trending songs by real artists, so you never have to worry about strikes, takedowns, or re-editing videos.

Why creators love Thematic:

• Save time during planning: Add your chosen tracks directly into your calendar, so each video’s music is ready before production begins.
• Stay copyright-safe: Every song is cleared for YouTube monetization, letting you focus on creativity instead of compliance.
• Boost engagement: Music can increase watch time, retention, and shareability, helping your videos perform better.

✅ Pro Tip: In your content calendar template, add a “Music/Song” column and note which Thematic song you’ll use for each upload. This keeps your production workflow organized and ensures your content is ready for publishing without last-minute edits.

Track Performance and Optimize

A YouTube content calendar isn’t just a planning tool – it’s a living document. Its true power comes from helping you track performance, learn from data, and continually optimize your content strategy. By reviewing analytics and adjusting your calendar over time, you can focus on what works best and grow your channel more effectively.

Here’s how to make your calendar work for you:

1. Track Key Metrics for Every Video

Logging performance data directly in your calendar helps identify trends and measure success. Key metrics to track include:

• Views in the first 48 hours – gauge immediate audience interest
• Click-through rate (CTR) – see how effective your thumbnails and titles are
• Average view duration & audience retention – understand how engaging your content is
• Subscribers gained – track how each video contributes to channel growth

✅ Pro Tip: Track Shorts separately – they often perform differently from long-form content and can quickly reach new viewers.

2. Analyze Your Content Pillars

Look at which types of content consistently perform best:

• Identify the topics, formats, or posting days that drive engagement
• Adjust your content mix to focus more on what resonates with your audience
• Spot underperforming content early so you can pivot or improve

3. Iterate Your Workflow

Use performance insights to refine your production process:

• Adjust deadlines or batch filming schedules to reduce bottlenecks
• Experiment with video lengths, posting times, or thumbnails
• Plan improvements for future videos based on lessons learned

4. Refine and Update Your Calendar

Your calendar should evolve as your channel grows:

• Remove ideas that aren’t performing well
• Add recurring successful formats or trending topics
• Plan for collaborations, seasonal content, or special events in advance

✅ By tracking performance and optimizing your schedule, your content calendar becomes a strategic tool for growth, helping you consistently produce videos that engage viewers and drive your channel forward.

YouTube Content Calendar FAQs

Running a YouTube channel comes with a lot of questions – especially when it comes to planning, scheduling, and growing your content effectively. These FAQs answer some of the most common questions creators have about using a YouTube content calendar, posting consistently, and optimizing for both Shorts and long-form videos. Think of this as a quick-reference guide to help you stay on track while building your channel.

How far in advance should I plan my YouTube content calendar?

Most creators plan at least one month in advance. Larger channels often plan quarterly to align with seasonal trends, sponsorships, and launches.

Should I post daily to grow on YouTube?

Not necessarily. Quality and consistency matter more than volume. A steady 1–2 videos per week is better than rushing out daily uploads.

Do I really need to include Shorts in my content calendar?

Yes, Shorts are one of the fastest ways to grow your reach. Planning them ensures they support your overall strategy rather than feeling random.

What’s the easiest tool for beginners to use?

Google Sheets. It’s free, simple, and flexible. Our free template is a great starting point.

How do I plan content around trends?

To effectively plan content around trends, monitor platforms like YouTube Trending, TikTok, and Twitter for emerging topics. Incorporate these trends into your content calendar, ensuring they align with your channel’s niche and audience interests. This proactive approach allows you to capitalize on timely topics, keeping your content relevant and engaging.

Can a content calendar help me monetize faster?

Yes, a content calendar can expedite monetization by ensuring consistent uploads, optimizing content for SEO, and diversifying content types. This strategic approach enhances audience retention and engagement, key factors in meeting YouTube’s monetization criteria.

Final Thoughts 💭

A YouTube content calendar is one of the most powerful tools a creator can use to grow their channel strategically. It’s not just about scheduling uploads – it’s about:

• Planning with intention so every video supports your channel’s goals
• Maintaining consistency, which builds trust with your audience and signals activity to YouTube’s algorithm
• Balancing different content types (YouTube videos, Shorts, and Community posts) to maximize engagement
• Streamlining your workflow and reducing stress by clearly mapping out production and promotion tasks
• Tracking performance and using data to refine your strategy for better results over time

By integrating a calendar into your creative process, you can spend more time focusing on content quality and audience engagement instead of scrambling to meet deadlines.

Start simple, even with a Google Sheets template, and grow it as your channel scales. Use insights from your calendar to make data-driven decisions, experiment with formats, and plan ahead for trends, collaborations, and seasonal content.

And don’t forget 👉 tools like Thematic can help you save time and avoid copyright headaches by planning trending, monetization-safe music directly alongside your content schedule. With a structured calendar and the right resources, your YouTube workflow becomes organized, efficient, and primed for growth.

Ready to level up your videos and content planning with trending and copyright-safe music? Join Thematic for free and access songs from real artists trusted by 1M+ creators.

Looking for more free creator tools and resources? Visit Thematic’s Creator Toolkit for additional resources on creating content – including thumbnail and channel art templates, best practices, and of course, great royalty free songs to use in your videos for free with Thematic.

This guide on How to Create a YouTube Content Calendar is brought to you by Thematic Co-Founder & COO Audrey Marshall

With a background in entertainment PR (via Chapman University), Audrey has led digital strategy for music artists, content creators, and brands. From brand campaigns for Macy’s, American Cancer Society, and the L’Oréal luxe family of brands, to music-driven influencer marketing campaigns for Interscope Records, Warner Music, AWAL, and Taboo of the Black Eyed Peas (featuring creators such as Lexy Panterra, Blogilates, Mandy Jiroux, Matt Steffanina, and Seán Garnier), she is an expert in navigating the influencer marketing space. Audrey has also developed and managed some of the leading beauty, lifestyle, and dance channels on YouTube.

Certified across the board with YouTube, Audrey has a specific focus on digital rights management for music assets, running multiple SRAV-enabled CMS. She is passionate about working with other builders in the space for a more transparent digital rights ecosystem.

At Thematic, Audrey leads the product team and oversees operations. She has driven partnerships with leading talent and music companies, including Songtrust, Kobalt/AWAL, Select Management, BBTV, ipsy, and Black Box, and has helped the platform grow to a thriving community of 1M+ content creators who have posted 1.6M+ videos using the platform, driving 60B+ music streams and $120M+ in earned media value for independent music artists.

Growing a successful YouTube channel is about more than just uploading videos – it’s about understanding how your content performs. That’s where YouTube Analytics comes in. This powerful tool provides detailed insights into your audience, engagement, and growth so you can make smarter content decisions.

In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll break down the key YouTube Analytics metrics every creator should track, explain why they matter, and show you how to use them to optimize your channel. By the end, you’ll understand how YouTube Analytics works, how to read your YouTube Analytics data, and how to use it to improve watch time, engagement, and subscriber growth.

Table of Contents:

• Why YouTube Analytics Matters
• How to Check YouTube Analytics
• Key Metrics to Track
• Pro Tips for Using YouTube Analytics
• How Music Impacts Video Performance
• FAQs on YouTube Analytics
• Final Takeaways

🔑 Why YouTube Analytics Matters

YouTube Analytics isn’t just about numbers – it’s about understanding your audience. With it, you can:

• Discover what videos drive the most watch time and engagement.
• Identify which content leads to the most new subscribers.
• Optimize titles, thumbnails, and formats using CTR and retention data.
• Understand traffic sources to see whether viewers find you through YouTube search, suggested videos, or external platforms.

Think of it as your creative feedback loop. Each video gives you data that reveals what’s working and what’s not. If your CTR is high but retention drops off, your packaging is strong but your content delivery needs work. If your retention is great but CTR is low, you need stronger thumbnails and titles.

YouTube’s recommendation system rewards creators who can keep audiences watching. By mastering Analytics, you’re not just tracking numbers – you’re aligning with the very signals that push your videos into the algorithm.

🖥 How to Check YouTube Analytics

Checking your YouTube Analytics is straightforward and gives you access to a wealth of YouTube Analytics data about your channel and individual videos. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Sign in to YouTube Studio: Go to studio.youtube.com. This is the hub for all creator tools.
2. Access Analytics: In the left-hand menu, click Analytics. You’ll see an overview of key metrics like views, watch time, CTR, and subscriber growth.
3. Explore Tabs:
   • Overview: Quick snapshot of top-level metrics for your channel.
   • Reach: Shows traffic sources, impressions, and CTR.
   • Engagement: Displays watch time, average view duration, and top videos.
   • Audience: Learn about unique viewers, subscriber growth, and returning viewers.
   • Revenue: For monetized channels, shows estimated revenue, RPM, and transaction data.
4. Dive Deeper: Click on individual videos to see per-video analytics, including retention graphs, traffic sources, and engagement metrics.
5. Export Reports: You can download CSV reports to analyze trends over time or compare performance across multiple videos.

By checking your analytics regularly, you’ll know exactly how your channel is performing, which videos engage your audience, and where there’s room for improvement.

📊 Key YouTube Analytics Metrics You Should Track

YouTube Analytics offers dozens of reports, but these are the metrics that matter most for creators looking to grow.

👉 Use this table as a high-level snapshot, then dive into the Breaking Down the Metrics section for actionable insights on each metric.

📊 Breaking Down the Metrics

Below is a detailed look at the most important YouTube Analytics metrics every creator should track, why they matter, and how to use them to grow your channel.

Views

• What it measures: Total number of times your video has been watched.
• Why it matters: Views are your first signal of reach and audience interest. While high views are great, they don’t necessarily indicate engagement.
• How to use it: Compare views across videos to identify which topics, formats, or titles attract attention. Use this data to plan future content.

Watch Time

• What it measures: Total minutes viewers spend watching your videos.
• Why it matters: YouTube prioritizes videos that accumulate watch time. Longer watch times mean higher chances of being recommended.
• How to use it: Encourage viewers to watch more by improving pacing, storytelling, and sequencing content logically. Use watch time trends to see what keeps viewers engaged.

Average View Duration (AVD)

• What it measures: The average length of time viewers watch per view.
• Why it matters: AVD shows whether viewers are sticking around. A low AVD may indicate weak intros or slow pacing.
• How to use it: Experiment with shorter intros, strong opening hooks, and visually engaging elements. Compare AVD across videos to find high-performing formats.

Audience Retention

• What it measures: The percentage of viewers who continue watching over time.
• Why it matters: Retention graphs show where viewers drop off. High retention can boost your video in recommendations.
• How to use it: Use retention graphs to identify drop-off points. Adjust content, storytelling, or visuals to keep viewers engaged.

Click-Through Rate (CTR)

• What it measures: Percentage of people who clicked on your video after seeing its thumbnail and title.
• Why it matters: CTR shows how effective your video packaging is. Low CTR means your thumbnail or title may not be compelling.
• How to use it: Test different thumbnails and titles. Use curiosity, urgency, or clear value propositions to entice clicks. Track CTR changes to optimize further.

Traffic Sources

• What it measures: Where viewers found your video (Search, Suggested, Browse, External).
• Why it matters: Knowing traffic sources helps you optimize your content discovery strategy.
• How to use it: Focus on search optimization if most traffic comes from search. If Suggested Videos drive growth, analyze related content to improve relevance.

Subscriber Growth

• What it measures: Net new subscribers gained or lost per video.
• Why it matters: Subscriber growth shows which videos turn casual viewers into loyal fans.
• How to use it: Identify videos that drive subscriptions and replicate successful elements such as format, topic, and pacing.

Engagement (Likes, Comments, Shares)

• What it measures: How viewers interact with your video.
• Why it matters: High engagement signals value to YouTube, increasing discoverability.
• How to use it: Encourage likes, comments, and shares. Ask questions, run polls, or include calls-to-action to foster interaction. and watch time.

⚡ Pro Tips for Using YouTube Analytics

YouTube Analytics isn’t just a dashboard – it’s a roadmap for growth. By looking at trends, experimenting with small changes, and comparing performance over time, you can continuously refine your content strategy.

Here are some practical ways to get the most out of your YouTube analytics data:

• Benchmark performance: Don’t just focus on a single video. Compare across multiple uploads to identify consistent patterns.
• Use retention graphs wisely: Pay special attention to the first 30 seconds. The steepest drop-offs usually happen here – optimize your intros.
• Analyze by device: If most of your viewers are on mobile, keep text minimal, use bold visuals, and make sure your content is mobile-friendly.
• Experiment with thumbnails & titles: Small changes can have big results. Try A/B testing different thumbnail designs or title formats.
• Leverage “Compare to previous period”: This feature helps you see if your latest changes are actually improving performance.
• Segment by geography/language: If you notice growth in a specific region, consider captions or upload times that better serve that audience.
• Don’t obsess over daily data: Focus on weekly and monthly trends to make informed decisions.

🎵 How Music Impacts Video Performance

One often-overlooked factor in YouTube performance is music. A great soundtrack can:

• Keep viewers engaged longer.
• Improve audience retention.
• Create emotional connections that encourage likes, shares, and repeat viewing.

For example, a vlog without music may feel flat, but adding an upbeat track can hold attention. Tutorials can feel dry until background music adds flow. Story-driven videos become more immersive with cinematic scores.

But here’s the challenge: using copyrighted music can block your video, remove monetization, or limit playback worldwide 🚨 Nothing kills performance faster than a copyright claim.

That’s why creators use Thematic – a creator music platform offering trending, copyright-safe music from real artists.

With Thematic, you can:

• Access music that fits your video’s vibe.
• Avoid copyright claims that limit playback.
• Improve watch time and overall video performance with the right soundtrack.

👉 Ready to elevate your YouTube video soundtrack? Get free music for YouTube videos with Thematic.

❓ FAQs on YouTube Analytics

As you start diving into your data, it’s natural to have questions. Many creators (especially beginners) wonder which numbers matter most, how often to check their reports, and what “good” performance looks like. Here are answers to the most common questions about YouTube Analytics:

How often should I check YouTube Analytics?

Weekly reviews are ideal for tracking new video performance, while monthly reviews show long-term growth. Checking daily can cause you to focus too much on minor fluctuations.

For major uploads or collaborations, check right after posting to assess immediate impact.

What’s a good average view duration?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but a strong benchmark is having viewers watch at least 50–60% of your video.

For example, if your video is 10 minutes long, an average view duration of 5–6 minutes is solid. The longer your audience stays, the more YouTube promotes your content. Focus on strong openings, faster pacing, and engaging visuals to increase this metric.

Is CTR or watch time more important?

Both are critical but serve different purposes.

• CTR (Click-Through Rate) determines how many people click on your video when it’s shown.
• Watch time shows how long people stick around once they click.

Think of CTR as the front door, and watch time as how long people stay inside. If one is weak, your growth will stall. The best creators optimize both.

Can music really affect retention?

Yes, music shapes the viewing experience. Upbeat tracks can energize content, while cinematic music can build tension. If a video feels flat or lacks flow, the right music can keep viewers engaged longer.

Just be careful to use copyright-safe music (like what’s available on Thematic), so your video isn’t muted, demonetized, or restricted from playback.

Do Shorts have different analytics?

Yes. Shorts emphasize impressions, swipes, and quick watch duration. Retention is even more critical – if your Short doesn’t hook viewers within 2–3 seconds, they’ll swipe away. Looping Shorts that feel seamless perform especially well.

While metrics look different, the principles of CTR, retention, and engagement still apply.

What is a good number of views on YouTube?

There isn’t a universal benchmark for views because performance depends on your niche, audience size, and channel age. Instead, compare each video to your average performance:

• A video that performs 20–30% above your average can be considered successful.
• Track trends over time – consistent growth is more important than a single viral hit.
• Consider CTR, watch time, and retention alongside views to measure true impact.

✅ Key Takeaways for YouTube Analytics

YouTube Analytics can feel overwhelming at first, but once you understand the key metrics, it becomes one of the most valuable tools for channel growth. Instead of guessing what works, you’ll have real data guiding your decisions – whether that’s refining your thumbnails, improving audience retention, or identifying which content brings in subscribers.

Here’s what to remember:

• Track watch time, CTR, audience retention, and subscriber growth—these drive real channel growth.
• Use data to refine your content strategy, titles, and thumbnails.
• Focus on long-term trends, not daily fluctuations.
• Don’t overlook the role of music – copyright-safe, trending tracks from Thematic improve watch time and keep your videos claim-free.

TL;DR: Here’s the quick summary of YouTube Analytics 101

• YouTube Analytics helps creators understand and grow their channel.
• Prioritize watch time, CTR, audience retention, and subscriber growth as your core metrics.
• Use insights to refine content strategy, thumbnails, and titles for better performance.
• Keep videos copyright-free with Thematic’s trending music to maximize engagement and retention.

Looking for more free creator tools and resources? Visit Thematic’s Creator Toolkit for additional resources on creating content – including thumbnail and channel art templates, best practices, and of course, great royalty free songs to use in your videos for free with Thematic.

This guide to YouTube Analytics 101: The Best Metrics for Creators is brought to you by Thematic Co-Founder & COO Audrey Marshall

With a background in entertainment PR (via Chapman University), Audrey has led digital strategy for music artists, content creators, and brands. From brand campaigns for Macy’s, American Cancer Society, and the L’Oréal luxe family of brands, to music-driven influencer marketing campaigns for Interscope Records, Warner Music, AWAL, and Taboo of the Black Eyed Peas (featuring creators such as Lexy Panterra, Blogilates, Mandy Jiroux, Matt Steffanina, and Seán Garnier), she is an expert in navigating the influencer marketing space. Audrey has also developed and managed some of the leading beauty, lifestyle, and dance channels on YouTube.

Certified across the board with YouTube, Audrey has a specific focus on digital rights management for music assets, running multiple SRAV-enabled CMS. She is passionate about working with other builders in the space for a more transparent digital rights ecosystem.

At Thematic, Audrey leads the product team and oversees operations. She has driven partnerships with leading talent and music companies, including Songtrust, Kobalt/AWAL, Select Management, BBTV, ipsy, and Black Box, and has helped the platform grow to a thriving community of 1M+ content creators who have posted 1.6M+ videos using the platform, driving 60B+ music streams and $120M+ in earned media value for independent music artists.

If you’ve ever uploaded a YouTube video only to watch it get lost among thousands of others, you know how frustrating it can be. With over 500 hours of content uploaded every minute, standing out requires more than just good video content. Your YouTube thumbnail is your first (and sometimes only) chance to grab attention and drive viewers to click.

A well-designed thumbnail can double or even triple your click-through rate (CTR), helping your videos gain visibility in search results, recommended videos, and subscriber feeds. But creating a thumbnail that actually drives clicks isn’t about flashy colors or oversized text – it’s about strategy, design principles, and psychological triggers that resonate with viewers.

This guide provides step-by-step strategies, best practices, and pro tips to help you create thumbnails that get noticed and grow your channel.

Table of Contents:

• Why Thumbnails Matter
• Design Principles for High-Click Thumbnails
• Thumbnail Psychology: Why People Click
• Best Practices for YouTube Thumbnail Optimization
• Common Thumbnail Mistakes to Avoid
• Tools to Create Click-Worthy Thumbnails
• Advanced Strategies for Growing Your Channel with Thumbnails
• FAQs: YouTube Thumbnail Best Practices
• How to Use Copyright-Free Music in Your Videos
• Conclusion

🤔 Why Thumbnails Matter More Than You Think

Your YouTube thumbnail isn’t just a decoration. It’s a decision-making tool and the first impression viewers get of your video. Before a potential viewer reads your title, glances at your description, or checks how long your video is, they notice your thumbnail. If it sparks curiosity and relevance, they click. If not, they scroll on.

🔑 Key reasons thumbnails matter:

• Competitive advantage: In crowded niches, thumbnails help you stand out visually.
• Higher CTR drives growth: Videos with strong thumbnails rank higher in search and recommended videos.
• Viewer trust: Professional-looking thumbnails build credibility.

📊 Stats to keep in mind:

• A compelling thumbnail can increase your CTR by 2–3x.
• Viewers are more likely to trust and click on videos with professional-looking thumbnails.
• Bright, high-contrast images consistently outperform dull or cluttered ones.

✅ Pro Tip: Spend as much time on your YouTube thumbnail strategy as you do on video titles and descriptions.

🎨 Design Principles for High-Click Thumbnails

When it comes to YouTube thumbnails, great design is often the difference between someone clicking your video or scrolling past it. By applying a few timeless design principles (like contrast, composition, and readability) you can make your thumbnails pop in any feed and instantly communicate why your video is worth watching.

Use Contrast and Bright Colors

Colors that pop against YouTube’s mostly white and dark gray interface naturally draw attention. Bright yellows, reds, greens, and blues tend to work well. High-contrast combinations (like yellow text on a black background) are also more readable on mobile.

A great example of high-contrast thumbnails comes from Thematic creator Squat University. In the thumbnail for their “BEST Daily Core Routine” video, the bold blue & yellow colors provide a sharp visual contrast, making the thumbnail instantly eye-catching in the feed.

✅ Pro Tip: Blur or desaturate backgrounds and place a bright subject in front. This simple technique dramatically increases visibility.

Keep Text Short but Bold

Your YouTube thumbnail text isn’t meant to replace your title, it should complement it. Use just a few words (ideally 3–5) to highlight the emotional hook or value of your video.

Examples:

• “5-Minute Fix”
• “Don’t Do This”
• “Secret Settings”

Thematic creator James Leung nails this technique by using just a few bold, impactful words in his YouTube thumbnails, capturing the essence of his video while leaving viewers curious to click.

✅ Pro Tip: Always use a bold, sans-serif font that’s readable even at small sizes.

Focus on Faces and Emotions

Humans are wired to notice faces. Thumbnails that feature close-up faces with strong emotions (shock, excitement, curiosity) consistently outperform generic images. A reaction shot tells a story instantly and makes the viewer want to know what caused that reaction.

Thematic creator Linda Sun perfectly captured her emotions in the YouTube thumbnail for her “It Happened, I Got Injured” vlog. By highlighting her pain and disappointment in the thumbnail, the image immediately communicates the story’s intensity, sparking curiosity and encouraging viewers to click to find out what happened.

👉 Example: A shocked face alongside the text “Big Mistake!” immediately sets up a curiosity gap and sparks curiosity.

Create Curiosity Gaps

A curiosity gap is when your thumbnail hints at something but doesn’t give the full answer.

Examples:

• Thumbnail shows a broken phone → text says: “Never Do This.”
• Thumbnail shows a blurred-out product → text says: “Worth the Hype?”

We love how Thematic creator Library of a Viking builds curiosity with his YouTube thumbnail asking, “Was It A Mistake?”, perfectly complementing his title about buying all the Cosmere leatherbounds. This clever thumbnail-title combination creates a strong curiosity gap, drawing viewers in and encouraging them to click to see the full story.

These kinds of YouTube thumbnails motivate the viewer to click and find out more.

Consistency Builds Branding

If someone enjoys your video once, they’re more likely to click again if they recognize your style. Use consistent styling (like fonts, colors, or framing) so your thumbnails are instantly recognizable. Branding helps turn casual viewers into loyal subscribers.

🧠 Thumbnail Psychology: Why People Click

Design isn’t just about looks, it’s about psychology. Here’s what drives viewers to click:

• Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Thumbnails that suggest “You’re missing something important” drive urgency.
• Reward Seeking: Phrases like “Easy Hack” or “Save Money Fast” promise quick value.
• Shock & Surprise: Faces showing exaggerated emotion or unexpected imagery trigger curiosity.
• Clarity: People don’t want to guess what your video is about. If your thumbnail is confusing, they’ll skip it.

Understanding these psychological triggers lets you design thumbnails that resonate on a deeper level.

🙌 Best Practices for YouTube Thumbnail Optimization

Optimizing thumbnails means more than just creating a pretty image. It’s about testing, analyzing, and refining to ensure your thumbnail attracts the right audience. Below are a few of our best practices to ensure your YouTube thumbnails are optimized to perfection.

Use the Right Dimensions & Resolution

Based on YouTube’s custom thumbnail best practices, they recommend that thumbnails are:

• Size: 1280 x 720 pixels
• Aspect ratio: 16:9
• File size: Under 2MB
• Formats: JPG, PNG, or GIF

Uploading thumbnails that don’t fit these specs may result in blurry or distorted images.

👉 Click here to download our YouTube Thumbnail Photoshop Template, ready-to-go with the perfect dimensions for optimized YouTube thumbnails.

Test Variations

Even experienced creators can’t always predict which thumbnail will perform best. That’s why A/B testing your thumbnails is crucial.

Thankfully, YouTube has added thumbnail testing directly in your YouTube Studio dashboard. Simply upload 2-3 variations of your thumbnail and YouTube will auto A/B test to discover the version that drives the best click-through-rate.

Alternatively, you can use creator tools like TubeBuddy or vidIQ to test thumbnails against each other to see which is more effective at driving views.

Analyze Your CTR Data

Don’t just set it and forget it – take the time to learn from past videos and see which thumbnails are attracting viewers to your channel.

To analyze your thumbnail CTR data, go into YouTube Analytics > Reach tab. Here you’ll see your CTR percentage. A good benchmark is:

• 10%+ CTR: Excellent ⭐️⭐️⭐️
• 5–10% CTR: Strong ⭐️⭐️
• 2–5% CTR: Average ⭐️

If your CTR is low, your thumbnails (or titles) may not be resonating. Try changing the thumbnails on these low-performing videos to see if a new image helps to improve the video click-thru rate.

Optimize for Mobile

Over 70% of YouTube views happen on mobile. That means your thumbnail has to work at small screen sizes as well as on large screens (like TVs).

Always zoom out when designing your thumbnails (until it’s just a small box on your screen) and check to make sure the text and subject are still readable and clear.

Avoid Thumbnail Clickbait

Thumbnail clickbait may get you short-term clicks, but it kills retention and trust (not to mention your video’s likelihood of getting promoted in YouTube’s search and discovery algorithm). If your thumbnail promises one thing and the video delivers another, viewers will bounce, and YouTube will rank your video lower.

🚫 Common Thumbnail Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common YouTube thumbnail mistakes to ensure your videos stand out in crowded feeds:

1. Too much text. Keep it short and impactful.
2. Low-quality images. Blurry or pixelated thumbnails signal unprofessional content.
3. Cluttered design. If your thumbnail has too many elements, nothing stands out.
4. Weak color contrast. Hard-to-read text leads to skipped videos.
5. Generic stock photos. They don’t build trust or personality.

🛠️ Tools to Create Click-Worthy Thumbnails

You don’t need to be a Photoshop expert to design effective YouTube thumbnails. Here are some great tools to get you started with thumbnail design:

• Canva: User-friendly with ready-made templates.
• Adobe Express: Great for branded, polished designs.
• Figma: Ideal for collaborative teams.
• Snappa: Quick drag-and-drop thumbnail creation.
• Remove.bg: Easily remove backgrounds from images.

These tools make thumbnail creation accessible to any creator, regardless of design experience.

📚 Advanced Strategies for Growing Your Channel with Thumbnails

Once you’ve nailed the fundamentals of thumbnail design, it’s time to level up. Advanced strategies can turn your YouTube thumbnails into powerful tools for driving more clicks, increasing watch time, and accelerating channel growth.

In this section, we’ll explore proven techniques that top creators use to make their thumbnails stand out, attract more viewers, and convert casual viewers into loyal subscribers.

Establish a Visual Identity

Big creators (like MrBeast, Marques Brownlee, and Emma Chamberlain) have instantly recognizable thumbnails. Whether it’s bold text, color schemes, or layout, consistency makes your content bingeable.

Study Competitor Thumbnails

Search your video topic on YouTube and study the top-ranking thumbnails. What patterns do you notice? Use these insights to design a thumbnail that both fits the niche and stands out.

Use Arrows, Circles, and Highlights

These visual cues direct the viewer’s eye to the key part of the thumbnail. Subtle use of arrows or highlights can dramatically improve clarity.

Pair with a Strong Title

Thumbnails and titles work together. A strong thumbnail makes the viewer curious, and the title seals the deal. Always craft them as a package, not separately.

FAQs: YouTube Thumbnail Best Practices

Creating effective thumbnails raises a lot of questions for YouTube creators, especially when you’re trying to improve CTR and grow your channel. In this FAQ section, we answer the most common concerns, providing actionable advice and tips you can implement immediately. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your strategy, these answers will help you make better thumbnail decisions and optimize your videos for clicks.

Do I need expensive software to make thumbnails?

No. Free tools like Canva, Adobe Express, and InVideo provide everything you need to start creating professional thumbnails without spending a dime. Combine these with your own images or free stock photos for maximum impact.

Can I add custom thumbnails to YouTube Shorts videos?

Unfortunately, YouTube doesn’t have a way for creators to upload custom thumbnails for Shorts videos. However, you do have the option to select a specific video frame from your Short to use as the default thumbnail image. Just keep in mind that you won’t be able to change the Shorts thumbnail after uploading the video.

Should I use my face in every thumbnail?

Faces are a powerful way to connect with viewers and boost CTR, but they’re not mandatory for every video.

Close-ups showing strong, authentic emotions (like surprise, excitement, or curiosity) tend to perform best. Use faces strategically for story-driven or personality-driven videos, but for content like tutorials, animations, or product demonstrations, it’s okay to use other visual cues.

The key is to ensure the thumbnail clearly communicates the video’s value and sparks curiosity.

How much text should I include on thumbnails?

Less is more when it comes to thumbnail text. Stick to 3–5 words that clearly convey the video’s value proposition or hook. Text should support, not replace, your video title, highlighting the emotional or curiosity-driven element of your content.

Too much text can be overwhelming and unreadable, especially on mobile devices where most YouTube views occur. Instead, focus on short, bold, and easy-to-read text that instantly communicates why viewers should click.

Can I change thumbnails on old videos?

Yes! One of the advantages of YouTube is that you can revitalize older content by updating thumbnails. Refreshing thumbnails on older, evergreen videos can boost CTR, increase watch time, and even improve search rankings.

When changing old thumbnails, aim for consistency with your current branding and consider incorporating design elements that have worked well on recent videos. Even small tweaks (like adjusting text size or brightness) can make a big difference in capturing attention.

Are there any restrictions on YouTube thumbnails?

Yes! YouTube requires that all custom thumbnails adhere to YouTube’s Community Guidelines. This means that thumbnails should not feature or encourage:

• Violence
• Harmful or dangerous content
• Hate speech
• Sexually provocative content

YouTube may also limit the number of custom thumbnails uploaded to an account. We recommend checking out YouTube’s official policies on custom thumbnails here.

How often should I update YouTube thumbnails?

Updating YouTube thumbnails is not a one-time task – it’s part of ongoing channel optimization. A good practice is to review your CTR data every 3–6 months, especially for evergreen content or videos that aren’t performing as expected. Low-performing videos can benefit the most from refreshed thumbnails.

When updating, test different designs, text overlays, and subject positioning to see what resonates with viewers. Over time, this experimentation helps you identify patterns in what drives clicks for your audience.

How to Use Copyright-Free Music in Your Videos

Once you have scroll-stopping YouTube thumbnails, it’s time to make sure your videos themselves stand out. Adding music can dramatically increase viewer engagement and complement your thumbnails. Thankfully, Thematic offers a vast library of free, copyright-safe music and sound effects specifically curated for YouTube creators.

With Thematic, you can:

• Use songs from real artists in your YouTube videos
• Avoid copyright headaches
• Browse by genre, mood, or tempo
• Download music for free to match the vibe of your video and thumbnail
• Enhance your storytelling with music that complements your visual content

Join Thematic for free today and pair your high-click thumbnails with amazing music to grow faster on YouTube.

Conclusion

A great YouTube thumbnail isn’t about flashy graphics – it’s about strategy. By combining design principles, psychological triggers, and consistent optimization, you can turn your thumbnails into powerful growth tools that drive clicks, boost your CTR, and grow your YouTube channel.

The best part? YouTube thumbnail design is a skill you can improve over time. Start by focusing on clarity, contrast, and curiosity, and refine your style with every video. Before long, you’ll see your videos rising in the rankings (and your subscriber count climbing with them).

⏭️ Next Steps:

• Spend as much time on thumbnails as titles
• Test and iterate based on CTR data
• Pair visuals with music and video quality for maximum impact

With practice and strategy, your thumbnails will stop scrolling thumbs and start driving clicks 🏆

Looking for more free creator tools and resources? Visit Thematic’s Creator Toolkit for additional resources on creating content – including thumbnail and channel art templates, best practices, and of course, great royalty free songs to use in your videos for free with Thematic.

This guide to How to Make YouTube Thumbnails That Actually Get Clicks is brought to you by Thematic Co-Founder & COO Audrey Marshall

With a background in entertainment PR (via Chapman University), Audrey has led digital strategy for music artists, content creators, and brands. From brand campaigns for Macy’s, American Cancer Society, and the L’Oréal luxe family of brands, to music-driven influencer marketing campaigns for Interscope Records, Warner Music, AWAL, and Taboo of the Black Eyed Peas (featuring creators such as Lexy Panterra, Blogilates, Mandy Jiroux, Matt Steffanina, and Seán Garnier), she is an expert in navigating the influencer marketing space. Audrey has also developed and managed some of the leading beauty, lifestyle, and dance channels on YouTube.

Certified across the board with YouTube, Audrey has a specific focus on digital rights management for music assets, running multiple SRAV-enabled CMS. She is passionate about working with other builders in the space for a more transparent digital rights ecosystem.

At Thematic, Audrey leads the product team and oversees operations. She has driven partnerships with leading talent and music companies, including Songtrust, Kobalt/AWAL, Select Management, BBTV, ipsy, and Black Box, and has helped the platform grow to a thriving community of 1M+ content creators who have posted 1.6M+ videos using the platform, driving 60B+ music streams and $120M+ in earned media value for independent music artists.

If your Instagram posts or Reels aren’t getting the Instagram views and reach you want, you’re not alone. The platform is more competitive than ever, and Instagram’s algorithm rewards content that keeps people watching, engaging, and sharing.

The good news? You can work with the algorithm to get more Instagram views, boost engagement, and grow your Instagram audience organically (no paid ads required).

Below are 15 proven tips to help you increase your Instagram views, improve engagement rates, and make your content stand out.

15 Tips to Get More Instagram Views:

1. Post Reels Consistently
2. Nail the First 3 Seconds
3. Leverage Trending Sounds
4. Keep Content Fresh With New Music
5. Post at Peak Times
6. Write Engaging Captions
7. Use Hashtags Strategically
8. Experiment With Carousel Posts
9. Collaborate With Other Creators
10. Engage Before and After Posting
11. Repurpose High-Performing Content
12. Use Story Stickers
13. Optimize Your Profile
14. Cross-Promote on Other Platforms
15. Post User-Generated Content

More Resources:

• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Final Thoughts & Next Steps

1. Post Reels Consistently

Instagram has made it clear: Reels are their top content format. Regularly posting Reels signals to Instagram’s algorithm that you’re an active, valuable creator, increasing the likelihood your content gets recommended and viewed by more people.

Best practices for sharing Reels:

• Aim for 3–5 Reels per week
• Batch-create content so you always have posts ready
• Use text overlays to engage users who watch with volume off

Consistency builds momentum, leading to a steady increase in your Instagram views over time.

2. Nail the First 3 Seconds

Retention is key to growing Instagram views. The first 3 seconds decide whether viewers keep watching or scroll away. Capture attention immediately with motion, bold visuals, or a provocative hook.

Best practices for strong hooks:

• Pose a question or tease the content outcome early
• Start with an intriguing or surprising shot
• Use on-screen text to communicate value quickly
• Avoid slow intros or long fades

3. Leverage Trending Sounds

Joining trending challenges and using popular sounds is one of the fastest ways to get more Instagram views. Instagram’s algorithm favors content that participates in current trends, helping you tap into wider audiences beyond your followers.

Best practices for using trending sounds on Instagram:

• Monitor Instagram’s Reels Explore page and TikTok for rising sound trends
• Jump on trends early to maximize exposure
• Put your own unique spin on trending challenges to stand out
• Combine trending sounds with strong visuals or storytelling to keep viewers hooked

4. Keep Content Fresh With New Music

While trending sounds attract quick attention, the right music keeps your audience engaged and builds your brand’s vibe over time. Using fresh, cleared music regularly can set your content apart and avoid copyright risks.

Best practices for using music on Instagram:

• Refresh your audio library regularly with new songs
• Use cleared music platforms like Thematic to avoid copyright issues
• Select tracks that complement your brand’s tone and the mood of your content
• Use licensed music helps you avoid muted videos, takedowns, or demonetization.

Why Thematic Belongs in Every Creator’s Toolkit

Music is a powerful emotional tool that can turn casual viewers into loyal followers. However, using unlicensed or copyrighted tracks can result in your videos being muted, removed, or demonetized – a serious risk for creators and brands.

Thematic solves this problem by offering:

• A vast library of trending, fully cleared music safe for Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and more
• Curated playlists organized by mood, genre, and theme for quick, easy discovery
• Unlimited free access for creators, making it simple to find and use quality tracks legally
• Support for monetized and business accounts, so you never risk copyright strikes

For example, a lifestyle creator can choose upbeat, cleared tracks from Thematic’s “Travel Aesthetic” playlist, knowing their videos won’t be muted or taken down – all while keeping their content fresh and engaging with trending music.

Start building your cleared music library with Thematic today, and add a professional soundtrack to every Instagram post that deserves to be seen and heard.

5. Post at Peak Times

Posting when your audience is most active increases the chance of early engagement, which Instagram’s algorithm favors (and that leads to more Instagram views overall).

Best practices for scheduling Instagram posts:

• Use Instagram Insights to find peak follower activity
• Schedule posts 15–30 minutes before peak times
• Test posting times and adjust based on performance
• Consider international time zones if you have a global audience

6. Write Engaging Captions

Captions give your posts context and encourage interaction, turning passive viewers into active commenters and savers, which increases your Instagram views and reach.

Best practices for writing Instagram captions:

• Keep captions easy to read with short paragraphs and emojis
• Tell a story or share behind-the-scenes info
• Ask questions to spark comments
• Include clear calls-to-action like “Tag a friend” or “Share your thoughts”

7. Use Hashtags Strategically

Hashtags help Instagram categorize and surface your content to relevant audiences, boosting views.

Best practices for using Instagram hashtags:

• Research hashtags for engagement, not just volume
• Combine broad hashtags (like: #fitness) with niche-specific ones (#pilatescoreworkout)
• Use 3-5 hashtags per post, ideally in the first comment to keep captions clean
• Rotate hashtag sets regularly to avoid spam flags

8. Experiment With Carousel Posts

Carousels keep people swiping, which increases post engagement and total impressions – both positive signals to Instagram’s algorithm.

Best practices for Instagram carousels:

• Share multi-step tutorials or storytelling in slides
• Use consistent branding and visual flow across slides
• Add captions or tips on each slide to add value
• Include a call-to-action in the last slide

9. Collaborate With Other Creators

Instagram collaborations expose your content to new, relevant audiences and help build community.

Best practices:

• Use Instagram’s Collab feature to share posts across profiles
• Partner with creators in your niche with complementary audiences
• Plan joint campaigns or challenges for greater engagement
• Tag collaborators and encourage cross-promotion

10. Engage Before and After Posting

Engagement is a two-way street. Active engagement signals to Instagram that you’re a valuable community member, which helps grow your Instagram views.

Engagement best practices for Instagram:

• Spend 10–15 minutes liking and commenting on others’ posts before publishing
• Reply promptly to comments on your posts to keep the conversation alive
• Engage with your followers’ Stories and content regularly
• Use genuine, personalized comments instead of generic ones

11. Repurpose High-Performing Content

Don’t let your best content lose momentum. Repurposing allows you to reach new audiences with less effort.

Best practices for resharing existing content:

• Convert viral Reels into carousel posts or Stories
• Clip longer videos into short teaser clips
• Update old posts with fresh visuals or captions
• Share repurposed content across platforms

12. Use Story Stickers

Interactive stickers boost engagement and help your Stories rank higher in follower feeds.

Best practices for using Story Stickers:

• Use polls, quizzes, sliders, and question stickers regularly
• Gather audience feedback or preferences through polls
• Use stickers to tease upcoming content or offers
• Respond to Story replies to deepen connections

13. Optimize Your Profile

Your Instagram profile is your brand’s landing page. Make a strong impression quickly to convert profile visits into followers.

Best practices for optimizing your Instagram profile:

• Use a clear, high-quality profile photo
• Craft a keyword-rich bio that communicates your value clearly
• Add a clickable link that leads to your website or latest offer
• Organize Highlights with relevant categories and cover images

14. Cross-Promote on Other Platforms

Reach new audiences by sharing content across multiple social platforms, driving traffic back to your Instagram and boosting views.

Best practices:

• Repurpose Instagram Reels as TikTok videos and YouTube Shorts
• Share content previews on X, Facebook, and Pinterest
• Link back to Instagram for exclusive content or giveaways
• Maintain consistent branding and messaging

15. Post User-Generated Content

As a creator, sharing user-generated content from your audience is a powerful way to build community and authenticity. Featuring your followers’ photos, videos, or reactions not only shows appreciation but encourages more fans to engage, which ultimately drives Instagram views.

Best practices for posting UGC:

• Repost photos or videos your followers tag you in or send directly
• Always credit the original creator to build trust
• Encourage your audience to tag you or use a branded hashtag for a chance to be featured
• Use UGC to tell authentic stories that resonate with your community

FAQs about increasing Instagram views

Growing on Instagram isn’t just about posting more often- it’s about understanding what actually drives views. Creators often ask how to boost reach, whether hashtags still matter, or if Reels perform better than posts. Below, we’ve answered the most common FAQs about getting more Instagram views to help you get more eyes on your content.

Do hashtags still work in 2025?

Yes, when used strategically alongside engaging content. Mix broad and niche hashtags and rotate them regularly.

How do I get more views on Instagram Reels?

To maximize your Instagram views on Reels, focus on strong hooks, consistent posting, trending (cleared) music, and active engagement before and after posting.

Can I use any song on Instagram for my business account?

No. Many popular songs are licensed for personal use only. Use cleared music from platforms like Thematic to stay safe.

Should I post daily or less frequently?

Quality over quantity. Posting 3–4 high-quality pieces weekly is generally better than daily low-effort content.

What’s the best time to post on Instagram?

It depends on your audience. Use Instagram Insights to find when your followers are active and schedule posts just before those peak times.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

Getting more Instagram views and engagement isn’t about chasing every new trend – it’s about creating content that resonates and consistently delivers value. These 15 tips will help you work with the algorithm, not against it, to grow your reach organically.

One of the most powerful (and overlooked) tools for boosting engagement is your soundtrack. The right music can make your content more memorable, but the wrong track can lead to copyright issues or demonetization. That’s why thousands of creators trust Thematic to find free, trending songs that are fully cleared for Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and beyond.

Start implementing these strategies today, and pair them with the perfect music from Thematic to give your Instagram content a professional, polished edge.

Get Trending Sounds for your Reels

User-generated content (UGC) is a powerful way to build trust and community on Instagram. The right soundtrack makes these authentic moments even more engaging.

Explore Thematic’s curated playlist of Top Songs for UGC Content featuring upbeat, versatile, and cleared tracks perfect for highlighting your audience’s creativity and maximizing your Instagram views.

Soundtrack your Instagram Reels with Thematic – copyright safe, trending, music, and free to use. Sign up today at Thematic and start growing your Instagram views with music you can trust.

Looking for more free creator tools and resources? Visit Thematic’s Creator Toolkit for additional resources on creating content – including thumbnail and channel art templates, best practices, and of course, great royalty free songs to use in your videos for free with Thematic.

These Top Tips for for Maximizing your Instagram Views is brought to you by Thematic Director of Partnerships, Stephanie Leyva

Stephanie Leyva sits at the intersection of music artists and content creators. As the Director of Partnerships at Thematic, Stephanie has worked extensively with the artist and creator community on the site to ensure success digitally, on the platform, and support their initiatives.

Over the past few years, she has led numerous trending music-driven influencer marketing campaigns for “Glitter” and “Supalonely (feat. Gus Dapperton” by BENEE, “Loneliness for Love” by Lovelytheband, “Checklist (feat. Chromeo)” by MAX and so many more. She’s worked alongside various labels such as Casablanca Records, Republic Records and Sony Music. Focused on empowering connections between content creators and music artists, Stephanie continues to lead the charge in innovative music discovery through social.

Stephanie is also the creator of the Bloom In Progress podcast – a podcast about personal growth, relationships and navigating life in your 20’s.

This handpicked Halloween playlist features everything from eerie background loops to retro synthwave horror vibes and creepy background instrumentals – perfect for October content of any style.

👉 All songs below are free to use on YouTube when downloaded through Thematic.

Top Halloween Songs for YouTube Videos

Damien Sebe – “halloween costume“

This creepy instrumental by Damien Sebe blends lofi textures with eerie melodies, creating a spooky yet chill Halloween vibe. Perfect for YouTube videos, autumn vlogs, or intros that need a subtle, unsettling atmosphere.

Use it to set the mood for costume montages, haunted house content, or any Halloween-themed project where a balance of creepiness and laid-back rhythm is key.

DK420187 – “Blvck Death“

“Blvck Death” is an intense, heart-racing EDM track built for high-energy Halloween scenes. Its driving beats and dark synths make it ideal for chase sequences, suspenseful edits, or dramatic YouTube intros.

Perfect for creators looking to amplify tension, highlight scary moments, or give viewers an adrenaline-pumping experience in any spooky, Halloween-themed video.

Bianca Tañega – “Spellbound“

“Spellbound” delivers witchy R&B pop vibes with mystical melodies and enchanting vocals. Ideal for Halloween videos that feature magic, spellcasting, or mystical storytelling, this track adds a bewitching touch to your content.

Use it for potion-making tutorials, costume videos, or any project where a sense of wonder, enchantment, and spooky elegance is desired.

Adam Angeles – “Zealous“

Adam Angeles’ “Zealous” is a hip hop instrumental with an urgent, ticking-clock feel. Perfect for Halloween storytelling, suspenseful edits, or countdown-style videos, it adds tension and energy to every scene.

Use it to drive fast-paced montages, create a sense of danger, or give viewers a thrilling, spooky experience for October-themed content.

Damien Sebe – “goosebumps“

Classic Halloween sounds meet modern production in Damien Sebe’s “goosebumps.” With eerie textures, unsettling melodies, and a chilling atmosphere, this track is perfect for haunted house scenes, spooky intros, or background music that creates suspense.

Ideal for YouTube videos, horror shorts, or any content aiming to give viewers a shiver down their spine.

ystr – “forgotten graveyard“

Haunting piano and atmospheric layers make “forgotten graveyard” by ystr a perfect soundtrack for Halloween storytelling. This moody soundscape evokes deserted cemeteries, ghostly wanderings, and late-night scares.

Ideal for YouTube vlogs, cinematic shorts, or content requiring a mysterious and eerie tone that draws viewers into a dark, Halloween-inspired narrative.

Transfection – “Undead Disco“

“Undead Disco” by Transfection is an electronic Halloween track that gradually increases in tempo, building suspense and energy. With thudding beats and a pounding heart-like rhythm, it’s perfect for chase sequences, action-packed edits, or videos where characters are running from danger.

Ideal for YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok content that needs both a spooky and high-energy vibe.

Staches – “Haunting“

Staches’ “Haunting” explores themes of loss and heartbreak through EDM with moody chords, heavy bass, and intense leads. The captivating vocals add emotional depth, making it ideal for Halloween content that’s dramatic, eerie, or introspective.

Use it for suspenseful storytelling, cinematic shorts, or videos that combine emotional intensity with a spooky, seasonal vibe.

RAYLYN REALITY – “Too Close“

“Too Close” delivers a surreal, unsettling atmosphere that feels like stepping into a clown funhouse. With eerie instrumentation and tension-filled arrangements, it’s perfect for Halloween videos that aim to unsettle or surprise viewers.

Ideal for YouTube shorts, horror montages, or any content where the goal is creepy, suspenseful fun that sticks in the audience’s memory.

iconDARK – “Alive, Awake, and Aware“

This ominous track by iconDARK features throbbing bass and eerie, atmospheric synth lines. It’s the ultimate Halloween soundtrack for nightmares, haunted stories, or suspenseful YouTube intros. Use it to create tension, highlight dark scenes, or set a chilling tone for any spooky content.

Perfect for creators looking for immersive, cinematic Halloween music that leaves a lasting impression.

🎶 Explore Our Full Halloween Playlist

Want even more spooky vibes? We’ve pulled together all of our favorite tracks into a single Halloween playlist on Thematic.

👉 Listen to the Halloween playlist here and find the perfect soundtrack for your YouTube videos, Instagram Reels, or TikToks this October.

This playlist is updated every year, so you’ll always have fresh copyright-safe music for your Halloween content 👻

Why Use Royalty-Free Halloween Music?

Using royalty-free Halloween music keeps your videos safe and your content flowing.

• ✅ YouTube won’t flag your video for copyright.
• ✅ Your monetization stays intact, even with sponsored content.
• ✅ Tracks fit any Halloween vibe—from eerie loops to spooky synthwave.

With Thematic, you can access these tracks 100% copyright-safe, free to use across YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and more.

Get Started with Halloween Music

🎵 Sign up for Thematic and start adding Halloween music to your videos instantly.

With your free account, you can browse themed Halloween playlists, download songs in seconds, and start editing your spooky content right away – no copyright worries, no delays.

FAQs About Halloween Music for YouTube

Below are answers to common questions about using Halloween music in your videos. This will help you pick the right songs and stay copyright-safe.

Can I use Halloween music on YouTube without copyright issues?

Yes – if the music is royalty-free and cleared for monetization. Every song in this list is copyright-safe when downloaded through Thematic.

What kind of Halloween songs work best for YouTube videos?

Creators often use eerie background loops, creepy synths, or fun seasonal tracks. The right choice depends on whether your video is spooky, playful, or cinematic.

Is this Halloween music free to use?

Yes! You can use these tracks for free with a Thematic account. No copyright claims, no takedowns.

👻 Create Spooky Halloween Videos with the Right Music

Halloween is the perfect time to get creative with your YouTube content (but only if you have the right music). This list (and our full playlist) gives you copyright-safe Halloween songs that are free to use and perfect for setting the spooky mood.

👉 Download Halloween music for your videos here and start creating your best seasonal content yet.

Looking for more Thematic music recommendations? Enjoy our list of the best lofi music artists and songs for YouTube videos or checkout our top song recommendations for Vlogmas and Christmas videos.

Did we miss any of your favorites? Drop us a line at @hellothematic on Twitter or Instagram!