Hey Reader,

Quick question: When was the last time you thought about YouTube as an email list building tool?

If you're like most creators, probably never. But I've discovered something interesting – I've gained more email subscribers in the past 3 weeks from YouTube than I did in the previous 3 months from all other channels combined.

Today, I'm going to break down exactly how I'm doing it, and how you can implement this strategy even if you're just starting out.

The Simple Strategy That's Working Right Now

The foundation of this approach is surprisingly straightforward: add newsletter signup links to your YouTube video descriptions. One of my recent videos brought in 152 new subscribers in just 10 days using this method.

But here's the key – don't just ask people to "subscribe to my newsletter." Instead, offer them something valuable (we call these lead magnets). Here are the three types of lead magnets that are converting incredibly well on YouTube right now:

1. Worksheets: Downloadable templates that help viewers implement what they learned
2. Prompts or Scripts: Ready-to-use frameworks that save them time
3. Extended Screenshares: Detailed walkthroughs that go beyond what's in the video

The "Show Your Workflow" Secret

I've noticed something fascinating in the creator space – some of the fastest-growing channels aren't doing fancy production or complex theories. They're simply showing their workflow.

Take the AI content creation space, for example. Creators who simply record their screen while showing how they use various AI tools are building massive audiences. Their videos aren't heavily edited, and their thumbnails aren't professionally designed, but they're generating more leads than they can handle.

Why? Because people love seeing the actual process. It's raw, it's real, and it's immediately applicable.

How to Start (Even Without an Audience)

You might be thinking, "But Matt, I don't have a YouTube audience yet!"

That's actually perfect – you can start with this strategy from day one. Here's what I recommend:

1. Record yourself solving real problems in your niche
2. Show your actual process, tools, and workflow
3. Create a relevant lead magnet that extends the value of your video
4. Add clear calls-to-action in your video and description
5. Be consistent with your uploads

The key is to focus on showing your work rather than just talking about theory. Are you a writer? Show how you outline articles. Designer? Record your Figma process. Developer? Screencast your coding sessions.

A Quick Note on Tools

Personally, I use Kit for my newsletter because it combines power with ease of use. While there are many great options out there, I've found that having unlimited landing pages and automation capabilities (on paid plans) makes it easier to create and manage multiple lead magnets.

Don't let tools hold you back though – most email platforms offer free plans that will get you started. For example, Kit's free plan gives you 10,000 subscribers and one landing page, which is more than enough to test this strategy.

Your Next Steps

1. If you already have YouTube videos, start by adding newsletter signup links to your most popular videos first
2. Create a simple but valuable lead magnet related to your content
3. Start recording your workflow – don't overthink it
4. Add clear calls-to-action in both your video and description

Remember, the goal isn't to create perfect videos – it's to share valuable insights that make people want to learn more from you through your newsletter.

Thanks for reading, listening, and watching!

Matt Ragland

P.S. Have you tried using YouTube to grow your email list? I'd love to hear about your experience. Hit reply and let me know!

This week on the HeyCreator show I share the biggest reason creators struggle to grow and the mindset shift that helped me move forward. If you’re feeling stuck in your creative journey, unsure of your next step, or debating a big transition, this is for you. I’ll walk through: ​ 🪤 The common trap that holds creators back 🧠 How to make strategic decisions for long-term success 😃 Practical steps to regain momentum and start creating with confidence You’re not alone in this journey. Whether you’re pivoting your business, redefining your goals, or just looking for clarity, I hope this video helps you take that next big step. Let’s build something meaningful—together. Watch HeyCreator! Make sure to subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. ​

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