Spend 30% on Ideas? Why Ideation is Your Biggest Lever

Imagine building a house. Spending 95% time on interior decoration but only 5% on the foundation is disastrous. suggests YouTube is similar. Many creators rush through ideation (the foundation) to get to filming/editing (decoration). He argues for flipping this, potentially dedicating 30% or more of total video effort to the upfront strategy: brainstorming compelling ideas, refining the angle, and crafting the perfect title/thumbnail concept. Why? Because a brilliant video nobody clicks on is worthless. A strong, well-packaged idea is the biggest lever for maximizing reach and ensuring your production effort isn’t wasted.

The CCN Framework: Finding Ideas That Hit Core, Casual & New Viewers

uses this framework to maximize a video’s potential audience. Think of targeting three groups simultaneously:

Core: Your loyal subscribers who love your niche deeply. (E.g., Advanced permaculture techniques).
Casual: People interested in the broader topic but not experts. (E.g., Sustainable gardening tips).
New: Anyone potentially curious, even outside the niche. (E.g., Andrew Millison’s “Greening the Sahara” – hooks on UN/environment).
An idea hitting all three (like Millison’s) has massive viral potential. The framework pushes you beyond just serving your core to find angles with broader appeal.

Beyond Your Niche: Where to Find Unexpected YouTube Idea Inspiration

Stuck in an echo chamber looking only at competitors? Broaden your horizons. Paddy implies looking beyond your immediate niche is key. Find inspiration in:

Adjacent Niches: If you’re in fitness, look at health, cooking, or psychology channels.
Completely Different Genres: What formats work in comedy, documentary, science, or history channels? Can you adapt their storytelling or visual techniques?
Other Platforms: What’s trending on TikTok, podcasts, or even traditional TV?
Books, Films, News: Draw conceptual inspiration from outside YouTube entirely. Unexpected connections often spark the most original ideas.

The “Versus” Framework: Generating Ideas Through Comparison

Humans are naturally drawn to comparisons and conflict. The “Versus” framework leverages this. Brainstorm ideas by pitting two things against each other:

Products: “$100 Drone vs $1000 Drone,” “iPhone Camera vs Pixel Camera.”
Techniques: “Traditional Art vs Digital Art Speedpaint.”
Experiences: “$1 Hotel vs $10,000 Hotel.”
Concepts: “Passive Income vs Active Income Strategies.”
Entities: “Red Bull Drone vs F1 Car.”
This structure provides instant clarity, intrigue, and a promise of definitive insights or a clear winner, making it a powerful and versatile ideation tool.

The “Levels” Framework: Ideas Based on Time, Effort, or Cost

This framework structures content around progressive stages or tiers, offering compelling comparisons. Examples:

Time: Ian Lure Astro’s “Photographing the Milky Way in 10min / 1hr / 24hrs.”
Effort/Skill: “Learning Piano: Day 1 vs Month 1 vs Year 1.”
Cost/Budget: “$1 vs $10 vs $100 Golf Club Performance Test.”
Income/Lifestyle: Johnny Harris’s “$25k vs $100k vs $25M Life.”
This format visually demonstrates progression or difference, taps into curiosity about varying investments, and provides a clear narrative arc.

Superlative Ideation: Brainstorming Around “Biggest,” “Fastest,” “Only”

Using extremes is a simple yet effective way to generate compelling ideas. Start brainstorming with superlatives:

What’s the BIGGEST project I could attempt? (World’s Biggest Pizza)
What’s the FASTEST way to achieve X? (Fastest Way to Learn Spanish)
What’s the CHEAPEST alternative? (Building a Gaming PC for Under $300)
What’s the OLDEST/NEWEST version? (Trying a 100-Year-Old Recipe)
What’s the ONLY tool you need? (The Only App You Need for Productivity)
Superlatives automatically create intrigue and promise a noteworthy or definitive experience.

“Exclusive Access” Ideas: Leveraging Your Unique Opportunities

What can you show or talk about that few others can? This is your “exclusive access” advantage. It doesn’t have to be billionaire sanctuaries (like Forest Galante) or NBA Finals (like Jesser). It could be:

Unique Job: “A Day in the Life of an Air Traffic Controller.”
Specialized Skill: “Secrets Only Master Carpenters Know.”
Local Knowledge: “Hidden Gems Only Locals Know in [Your City].”
Personal Experience: “What It’s REALLY Like Living with [Rare Condition].”
Community Access: “Inside the Secret World of Competitive Dog Grooming.”
Identify your unique perspective or access point and build ideas around it.

Listicle Ideation That Works: Moving Beyond Generic “Top 10s”

Generic lists like “Top 10 Travel Tips” are saturated. To make listicles work now (inspired by Ali Abdaal/Paddy):

Add Specificity/Angle: “Top 5 Underrated European Cities,” “7 Travel Mistakes That Waste Money.”
Target Audience: “10 Solo Travel Tips for Women Over 50.”
Unique Framing: “The 3 Travel ‘Hacks’ That Are Actually Scams.”
Puzzle List: Structure items to build a larger insight, not just random points.
Strong Hook: Frame the list around a compelling benefit or mystery.
Focus on delivering unique value or perspective within the familiar list format.

Solving Viewer Problems: Ideation Based on Audience Pain Points

One of the most effective ways to generate valuable ideas is to identify and solve your audience’s problems. Ask:

What questions do viewers constantly ask in comments?
What challenges or frustrations are common in my niche? (Use forums, social media for research).
What mistakes do beginners often make?
What tasks do people find difficult or time-consuming?
Ideas like “Stop Making This Common [Niche] Mistake” or “The Easiest Way to [Achieve Difficult Task]” directly address pain points, promising immediate value and solutions, making them highly relevant and clickable.

Trendjacking vs. Evergreen: Balancing Timely Topics with Lasting Content

Successful channels often mix two types of content:

Trendjacking: Creating videos about currently popular topics, news, or viral challenges. Pros: Can bring rapid, high viewership. Cons: Short lifespan, high competition.
Evergreen: Creating foundational content that remains relevant and searchable for months or years (e.g., comprehensive tutorials, core principles). Pros: Sustainable long-term views, builds authority. Cons: Slower initial growth.
A balanced strategy uses trends for occasional reach boosts while building a library of evergreen content for stability and authority.

Using YouTube Search & Competitor Analysis for Idea Generation

Don’t ideate in a vacuum. Use YouTube itself:

Search Autocomplete: Start typing keywords related to your niche and see what YouTube suggests – these are common searches.
Competitor Analysis: Look at successful videos in your niche. What topics resonate? What questions do their comments raise? What angles aren’t they covering well?
“Searches Across YouTube” Tab (Analytics): See what your audience (and broader YouTube viewers) are actually searching for related to your topics.
This helps identify popular subjects, audience questions, and potential content gaps.

The Power of “What If”: Exploratory Ideation Techniques

Asking “What If?” can unlock highly creative and engaging video concepts. Frame hypothetical scenarios related to your niche:

“What If You Only Ate Fruit for 30 Days?” (Health/Nutrition)
“What If Apple Designed a Car?” (Tech/Design)
“What If Gravity Suddenly Reversed?” (Science/Physics)
“What If You Invested $1000 in Bitcoin in 2010?” (Finance)
These questions spark curiosity, allow for imaginative exploration or simulation, and often lead to unique video ideas that stand out from standard formats.

Repurposing & Reformatting: Getting More Mileage from Existing Ideas

Content creation is time-consuming. Maximize your effort by repurposing:

Blog Post → Video: Expand key points with visuals and narration.
Long-Form Video → Shorts: Extract key moments, tips, or compelling clips.
Video → Podcast: Use the audio track for a podcast episode.
Live Stream → Edited Video(s): Cut down long streams into focused topic segments.
Video → Social Media Posts: Create carousels, quote graphics, or short text summaries.
This strategy extends the reach of your core ideas across different platforms and formats efficiently.

Collaborative Ideation: Brainstorming with Other Creators or Your Team

Two (or more) heads are often better than one. Brainstorming ideas with others brings:

Diverse Perspectives: People with different backgrounds or expertise see angles you might miss.
Building on Ideas: One person’s suggestion can spark a better idea from someone else.
Constructive Criticism: Others can identify weaknesses or potential issues with an idea early on.
Increased Creativity: The energy of a collaborative session can lead to more innovative concepts.
Whether with formal team members, creator friends, or a mastermind group, collaborative ideation can significantly enhance idea quality.

Mind Mapping for YouTube Ideas: Visual Brainstorming Techniques

For visual thinkers, mind mapping is a great ideation tool. Start with a central topic (e.g., “Sourdough Bread”). Branch out with related sub-topics (Ingredients, Techniques, Problems, Recipes, History). Then, branch further from each sub-topic (Techniques → Folding, Scoring, Starter Maintenance). Keep expanding outwards. This visual structure helps:

Explore connections between ideas.
Identify numerous potential video angles.
Organize thoughts systematically.
See the bigger picture of your content possibilities within a niche.

The “Audience Suggestion Box”: Using Feedback (Carefully!) for Ideas

Comments sections and community polls can be a source of ideas – viewers often directly ask questions or suggest topics. However, Paddy Galloway implicitly cautions against relying solely on this. Why?

Vocal Minority: Suggestions might represent a small, specific group, not the broader audience.
Lack of Strategy: Audience ideas often lack the strategic framing (CCN, packaging) needed for broad appeal.
Repetitive: Often suggestions are just “Do X again.”
Best Practice: Listen to audience feedback for inspiration and pain points, but always filter suggestions through your strategic lens.

Ideation for Brand Channels: Aligning Ideas with Business Goals (Not Just Views)

While creators often prioritize raw views, brands need ideas that also serve business objectives. Brand ideation should consider:

Brand Awareness: Ideas that showcase the brand subtly within engaging content (like Red Bull).
Product Education: Creative formats demonstrating product use/benefits (not just dry tutorials).
Customer Connection/Trust: Stories, behind-the-scenes, community features.
Thought Leadership: Content establishing expertise in their industry.
Recruitment: Videos showcasing company culture.
The best brand ideas entertain or inform first, while strategically aligning with broader marketing or business goals.

Validating Your Ideas BEFORE You Film: Reducing Wasted Effort

Spending days filming and editing a video nobody wants to watch is painful. Validate ideas upfront:

Keyword Research: Check search volume for the topic. Is anyone looking for this? (Use tools like Google Keyword Planner, VidIQ, TubeBuddy).
Trend Analysis: Is interest in this topic growing or declining? (Use Google Trends).
Competitor Check: Has this been covered extensively? Can you offer a unique angle?
Audience Polling: Ask your community (if you have one) if they’re interested in the concept.
Gut Check (Strategic): Does it fit the CCN framework? Can you package it compellingly?

The “Idea Bank”: Building a System for Capturing and Organizing Ideas

Good ideas strike at random times. Don’t lose them! Create an “Idea Bank”:

Tools: Use a simple Notes app, Trello board, Google Sheet, Notion database, or even a physical notebook.
Capture Everything: Jot down any potential idea, no matter how rough. Include title thoughts, format ideas, inspiration links.
Organize: Categorize ideas (e.g., by content pillar, format type, status – backlog, planned, filming).
Review Regularly: Revisit your bank when planning content to find gems or combine concepts.
A system ensures inspiration isn’t lost and provides a ready source for future videos.

From Broad Topic to Specific Video Idea: The Funneling Process

Starting with a general interest isn’t enough. Funnel it down:

Broad Topic: e.g., “Healthy Eating.” (Too vague).
Niche Down: e.g., “Healthy Eating for Busy Professionals.” (Better).
Identify Pain Point/Angle: e.g., “No time to cook healthy lunches.” (Specific problem).
Brainstorm Solutions/Formats: e.g., Meal prep, quick recipes, healthy takeout hacks.
Craft Specific Video Idea: e.g., “5 Healthy Lunches You Can Make in Under 10 Minutes (Meal Prep Ideas)” or “The Busy Professional’s Guide to Healthy Takeout.” (Clickable, focused concept).

Generating Ideas for Consistent Upload Schedules (The Engine)

To upload regularly, you need reliable “engine” content – formats you can produce consistently. Ideate around repeatable structures:

Series: Weekly Q&A, Monthly News Roundup, Tutorial Series.
Templates: Regular format like Case Studies, Reviews, Reaction/Commentary.
Content Pillars: Define 3-5 core themes and rotate through them.
Low-Lift Formats: Simple explainers, quick tips, opinion pieces (if appropriate).
Focus on creating formats that are sustainable for your resources and schedule, forming the backbone (the 80%) of your content calendar.

Ideas for Experimental Content (The 20% Rule in Practice)

The 20% of videos dedicated to experiments need careful ideation too. Brainstorm ideas that push boundaries:

Try a New Format: Adapt a structure you’ve never used (e.g., documentary style if you usually do tutorials).
Explore a Shoulder Niche: Test audience interest in a related topic.
Collaborate Differently: Partner with a creator outside your usual circle.
Tackle a Riskier/Bolder Topic: Address a controversial issue or attempt a very ambitious project.
Test a Different Style: Try more humor, higher production, or raw/unedited content.
Choose experiments strategically to learn something specific about your audience or potential new directions.

The “Day in the Life” Concept Vlog: Ideation Beyond Simple Vlogging

Standard vlogs (“Follow Me Around!”) can be dull unless you’re a huge personality. Elevate the format with a concept:

Focus on a Role: “Day in the Life of an NFL Player” (Eagles example), “…of a Surgeon,” “…of a Teacher.”
Focus on a Challenge: “Day in the Life Trying to Live on $10,” “…Training for a Marathon.”
Focus on Access: “Day in the Life Behind the Scenes at [Exclusive Place].”
Focus on Transformation: “Day in the Life: My First Day vs Last Day of [Project/Experience].”
Adding a specific angle or goal provides structure and intrigue.

“How It’s Made” Style Ideas: Behind-the-Scenes and Process Videos

People are fascinated by how things work or get created. Adapt the “How It’s Made” format:

Physical Products: Show the process of building furniture, crafting pottery, cooking a complex dish.
Digital Products: Screen record designing a website, coding an app, editing a video.
Creative Processes: Show songwriting, painting, writing a book chapter.
Events: Behind-the-scenes of planning a conference or performance.
Revealing the process provides value, builds appreciation, and satisfies curiosity about the “magic” behind the finished product.

Mythbusting Ideas: Debunking Common Misconceptions in Your Niche

Position yourself as an authority by correcting misinformation. Generate ideas by identifying common myths or bad advice in your field:

Fitness: “5 Workout Myths That Are Killing Your Gains.”
Finance: “Debunking Common ‘Get Rich Quick’ Schemes.” (E-E-A-T crucial here).
Cooking: “Stop Making This Classic Pasta Mistake!”
History: “Common Misconceptions About World War II.”
This format provides clear value, generates strong opinions (engagement!), and establishes your expertise by providing accurate information.

Reaction & Commentary Ideas: Adding Value, Not Just Watching

Simple reaction videos often offer little value. Elevate the format by adding insightful commentary:

Expert Analysis: A professional musician reacting to a song, explaining the theory. A doctor reacting to medical scenes in movies (checking accuracy).
Strategic Breakdown: Analyzing a business presentation or marketing campaign.
Historical Context: Reacting to old footage or speeches, providing background.
Instructional Commentary: Reacting to a tutorial and adding pro tips or corrections.
The key is transforming passive watching into active analysis, critique, or education.

Interview-Based Ideas: Finding Unique Angles and Guests

Standard Q&A interviews can be dry. Make them more compelling:

Themed Discussions: Instead of general chat, focus on a specific topic (“Debating the Future of AI with [Expert]”).
Unique Pairings: Interview two guests with opposing views simultaneously.
Format Twists: Use structures like “73 Questions,” rapid-fire rounds, or activity-based interviews (e.g., interviewing while cooking).
Focus on Story: Frame the interview around the guest’s journey or a key experience.
Targeted Expertise: Interview niche experts whose names aren’t famous but whose knowledge is valuable (use descriptor titles).

Tutorial & How-To Ideas That Stand Out from the Crowd

The “How To” space is crowded. Differentiate your tutorials:

Focus on a Micro-Niche Skill: Teach something very specific others overlook.
Unique Teaching Method: Use creative visuals, analogies, or a novel step-by-step process.
Address Common Failure Points: Structure the tutorial around avoiding mistakes beginners make.
“Ultimate Guide” Approach: Create the most comprehensive, in-depth resource on the topic.
Project-Based Learning: Teach skills through completing a cool, tangible project.
Entertaining Presentation: Inject personality, humor, or storytelling into the instruction.

Challenge-Based Ideas: Setting Up Compelling Stakes and Goals

Challenges create inherent narrative structure and stakes. Ideate by setting constraints or goals:

Time Limits: “Build a Website in 24 Hours,” “Learn a Song in 1 Hour.”
Budget Limits: “$10 Grocery Challenge,” “Thrift Flip Challenge (Under $20).”
Resource Limits: “Cook a Gourmet Meal Using Only Microwave Ingredients.”
Skill/Endurance Tests: “Try the Navy SEAL Fitness Test,” “30-Day [Habit] Challenge.”
Creative Constraints: “Write a Story Using Only 100 Words.”
Challenges are engaging because viewers want to see if the goal can be met.

Case Study Ideas: Breaking Down Successes (or Failures)

People love learning from real-world examples. Create case studies analyzing:

Business Success: “How [Company] Achieved Viral Marketing.”
Creator Growth: Paddy Galloway’s own breakdowns (“How MrBeast Got 100M Subs”).
Project Analysis: “Why This Kickstarter Campaign Succeeded (or Failed).”
Historical Events: “Lessons Learned from the [Historical Event].”
Scientific Breakthroughs: “Decoding the Research Behind [Discovery].”
Structure the breakdown logically (Problem, Strategy, Outcome, Key Takeaways) to provide actionable insights.

Predictive & Future-Focused Ideas: What’s Next in Your Niche?

Position yourself as a forward-thinker by exploring future trends:

Tech: “What Will Smartphones Look Like in 5 Years?”
Marketing: “The Future of Social Media Advertising.”
Finance: “Which Industries Will Boom Next Decade?” (YMYL – requires E-E-A-T).
Culture: “Predicting the Next Big Fashion Trends.”
Science: “Breakthroughs That Could Change Everything Soon.”
Base predictions on current data, expert opinions, and logical extrapolation. Offer insights into preparing for or capitalizing on upcoming shifts.

Historical & Retrospective Ideas: Looking Back to Understand the Present

Understanding the past provides context for the present. Explore the history of:

Your Niche: “The Evolution of Video Games,” “A Brief History of Photography.”
Specific Products/Brands: “The Rise and Fall of Blockbuster,” “The Story Behind the iPhone.”
Key Figures: “Forgotten Geniuses Who Changed Science.”
Cultural Moments: “How the 90s Shaped Music Today.”
Techniques/Styles: “The Origins of Impressionist Painting.”
Use historical narratives to educate, entertain, and offer perspective on current trends or practices.

Using Google Trends and Other Tools for Topical Idea Generation

Tap into collective interest using data tools:

Google Trends: See what topics are currently spiking in search interest globally or regionally. Find breakout search terms related to your niche. Can spark trendjacking ideas.
Exploding Topics / Glimpse: Tools specifically designed to identify rapidly growing trends before they peak.
AnswerThePublic / AlsoAsked: Visualize questions people are asking around a specific keyword. Great for identifying pain points and content gaps.
Use these tools to find timely, relevant ideas with existing audience interest.

The “Simple Question, Deep Answer” Idea Format

Start with a question that seems basic or common, then provide a surprisingly thorough, insightful, and well-researched answer. Examples:

“Why is the Sky Blue?” (Deep dive into physics/light scattering).
“How Does Wi-Fi Actually Work?” (Detailed explanation of radio waves/protocols).
“What Makes a Good Story?” (Exploring narrative theory, psychology, examples).
This format works because it takes relatable curiosity and delivers unexpected depth, satisfying the initial question while providing much richer understanding and establishing expertise.

Location-Based Ideas: Exploring Places or Events

Use physical locations as the core of your idea:

Travel Vlogs: Documenting journeys to cities or countries (find unique angles!).
Local Spotlights: Reviewing restaurants, parks, hidden gems in your own area.
Event Coverage: Reporting from conferences, festivals, conventions, or community gatherings.
Urban Exploration: Investigating abandoned places or unique architecture (ensure safety/legality).
Nature/Outdoors: Hiking specific trails, exploring national parks, documenting wildlife.
Location provides immediate visual interest and context for stories, reviews, or explorations.

Personal Story Ideas (That Resonate Broadly): Finding the Universal

Sharing personal experiences can be powerful if done right. Avoid diary entries; find the universal theme:

Struggle & Overcoming: Share a challenge (health, career, learning) and the lessons learned. Connects via shared human experience.
Transformation: Document a significant personal change (moving, habit change, skill mastery). Inspires viewers.
Vulnerability: Honestly discuss failures, fears, or insecurities. Builds trust and relatability.
Unique Perspective: Share how your specific background shapes your view on a topic.
Focus on the relatable emotions and takeaways, not just the events themselves.

Product Review Ideas That Build Trust and Authority

Go beyond reading specs. Build trust with reviews that offer:

Long-Term Use: Review after weeks/months, not just unboxing. Share real-world experience. (E-E-A-T).
Comparison: Review Product A vs. Product B, highlighting pros/cons for specific user types.
Problem-Solving Focus: How does this product solve a specific user need or pain point?
Brutal Honesty: Don’t shy away from negatives. Balanced reviews build credibility.
Targeted Audience: Review products specifically for beginners, pros, budget users, etc.
Focus on providing genuine value and expert insight for potential buyers.

Ideation Block? Techniques to Get Your Creative Juices Flowing Again

Feeling stuck? Try these prompts:

Change Your Environment: Brainstorm somewhere new (cafe, park).
Consume Different Content: Watch videos/read articles outside your niche.
Mind Map Random Words: Start with unrelated words and see where connections lead.
Ask “Opposite” Questions: If you normally do “Best Way,” brainstorm “Worst Way.”
Revisit Old Ideas: Look at your idea bank with fresh eyes. Can you combine or tweak old concepts?
Use Random Idea Generators (Online): Spark unexpected starting points.
Talk It Out: Discuss your niche with someone unfamiliar with it; their questions might spark ideas.
Take a Break: Sometimes stepping away lets subconscious connections form.

Connecting Unrelated Concepts: Ideas Born from Synthesis

Some of the most original ideas come from combining seemingly disparate fields. Examples:

“Applying Stoic Philosophy to Modern Business Challenges.” (Philosophy + Business)
“The Physics of a Perfect Golf Swing.” (Physics + Sports)
“Using Video Game Design Principles to Improve Education.” (Gaming + Education)
“What Ancient Roman History Teaches Us About Social Media.” (History + Tech)
Look for unexpected intersections between your niche and other areas of knowledge or interest. Synthesis often leads to unique and thought-provoking content.

Ideas for Short-Form Content (Shorts): Quick Hooks, Fast Value

Shorts require different ideation – focus on immediate impact:

Single Quick Tip/Hack: One actionable piece of advice.
Myth vs. Fact (Fast): Quickly debunk a common misconception.
Satisfying Visuals: Time-lapses, ASMR elements, quick transformations.
Before & After (Condensed): Rapid reveal of a change.
Compelling Statistic/Fact: Share one surprising piece of data.
Question/Answer Snippet: Pose a quick question, give a concise answer.
Behind-the-Scenes Moment: A funny, interesting, or relatable quick glimpse.
Think snackable, easily digestible content nuggets.

Generating Ideas from Comments Sections (Yours and Competitors’)

Comments are a goldmine for understanding audience needs:

Direct Questions: Note frequently asked questions – these are potential video topics.
Confusion Points: If viewers consistently misunderstand something, create a clarifying video.
Debates/Opinions: Topics sparking discussion indicate high engagement potential.
Suggestions (Filtered): Note topic requests, but evaluate them strategically (CCN, feasibility).
Pain Points: Comments expressing frustration or challenges reveal problems you can solve.
Mining comments provides direct insight into what your target audience is thinking and struggling with.

The “What I Learned From X” Idea Format

Share valuable takeaways from experiences, making them relatable lessons for viewers:

“What I Learned From Launching My First Product (Mistakes Made).”
“What I Learned Reading 50 Books Last Year.”
“What I Learned Traveling Solo for 3 Months.”
“What I Learned From Failing My Exam.”
“What I Learned Working With [Famous Person/Company].”
This format positions you as a reflective guide, sharing hard-won wisdom and insights derived from personal experience, which resonates strongly with audiences seeking growth.

Role-Playing & Scenario Ideas: Exploring Hypothetical Situations

Engage viewers by exploring “What if?” scenarios through role-playing or simulation:

Finance: “Role-Playing a Salary Negotiation.”
Social Skills: “Acting Out How to Handle Difficult Conversations.”
History: “What If [Historical Figure] Had Access to Modern Technology? (Scenario)”
Strategy Games: Simulating battles or decisions.
DIY/Problem Solving: Acting out troubleshooting steps for a common issue.
This format makes abstract concepts more concrete and entertaining by putting them into simulated action.

Using Analogies and Metaphors to Generate Fresh Angles

Explaining complex topics? Analogies make them relatable and can spark video ideas:

Topic: Computer Memory (RAM). Analogy: Like workspace on a desk. Video Idea: “Your Computer’s RAM Explained (Like You’re Organizing Your Desk).”
Topic: Investing Diversification. Analogy: Don’t put all eggs in one basket. Video Idea: “Investing Isn’t Gambling: The ‘Don’t Break All Your Eggs’ Strategy.”
Topic: Algorithm Function. Analogy: Like a recipe or recommendation engine. Video Idea: “Decoding the YouTube Algorithm (It’s Like Your Personal Chef!).”
Start with the core concept, find a strong analogy, and build the video around explaining the concept through that metaphor.

Seasonal & Holiday-Themed Ideas (If Relevant to Your Niche)

Tying content to specific times of year creates timely relevance:

Cooking: “Easy Holiday Appetizer Recipes,” “Summer Grilling Guide.”
Finance: “Tax Season Prep Checklist,” “Saving for Holiday Shopping.” (YMYL – E-E-A-T needed).
Fitness: “New Year’s Resolution Workout Plan,” “Getting Beach Ready (Healthy Tips).”
Gardening: “What to Plant in Spring,” “Winterizing Your Garden Beds.”
DIY/Crafts: “Handmade Holiday Gift Ideas,” “Spooky Halloween Decorations.”
Plan these in advance using a content calendar to capitalize on seasonal interest and search trends.

“A Day With…” Ideas: Shadowing Experts or Interesting People

Offer viewers an intimate glimpse into someone else’s world:

“A Day With a Michelin Star Chef During Service.”
“A Day With a Wildlife Photographer in the Amazon.”
“A Day With a Startup Founder During Launch Week.”
“A Day With an Emergency Room Nurse.”
This format leverages the “exclusive access” principle, satisfies curiosity about different professions or lifestyles, and provides authentic insights through observation rather than direct interviews. Requires securing access and permission.

Debate & Discussion Ideas: Exploring Different Sides of an Issue

Content that explores multiple perspectives often drives high engagement (comments!). Ideas:

Host a Formal Debate: Invite two experts with opposing views on a topic in your niche.
Present Both Sides Fairly: Research and articulate the strongest arguments for different viewpoints yourself.
“Pros and Cons” Analysis: Objectively weigh the advantages and disadvantages of a product, strategy, or decision.
“Agree or Disagree?” Format: State a controversial opinion and invite audience debate in the comments.
Ensure respectful discourse and clear presentation of different arguments.

Crafting Your “Content Pillars”: Defining Core Themes for Ideation

Instead of random ideas, establish 3-5 core “Content Pillars” – the main recurring themes or categories your channel covers. Examples for a fitness channel: Workouts, Nutrition, Mindset, Recovery. For a tech channel: Reviews, Tutorials, News, Comparisons. Defining these pillars:

Focuses Ideation: Brainstorm ideas specifically within each pillar.
Ensures Balance: Helps maintain variety while covering key areas.
Signals Niche: Clearly communicates your channel’s scope to viewers and the algorithm.
Creates Structure: Provides a framework for your content calendar.

The Ultimate Ideation Checklist: Filtering Ideas for Max Potential

Before committing to an idea, vet it with these questions (inspired by Paddy):

Is it Compelling? (Does it have a strong hook/angle?)
Does it Target CCN? (Potential for broad appeal?)
Can it Be Packaged Well? (Strong Title/Thumbnail potential?)
Is it Deliverable? (Do I have the resources/access/skill?)
Does it Offer Value? (Entertainment, education, solution?)
Is it Differentiated? (Unique angle vs. competitors?)
Does it Align with My Brand/Pillars?
Is There Audience Interest? (Validated via search/trends/feedback?)
Am I Passionate About It? (Sustainable motivation?)
Does it Fit My Schedule/Resources?