Our family recently attended a conference in Las Vegas called Grow with Video LIVE (GWVL). Under normal circumstances, I probably wouldn’t have traveled to Las Vegas, but I was invited to be a panelist. I couldn’t say no because the person inviting me was the founder of the event (and of the Think Media company), and most importantly, he was my YouTube mentor, Sean Cannell. And truth be told, I was honored.

Although I have over 1 million subscribers on YouTube, I still feel like a small creator. I hope I make you feel at home, my sweet friend, when you visit me in my kitchen and spend a little time with me cooking and chatting. And if we met at GWVL, I enjoyed every minute I had to chat with you and, of course, give you a big hug!

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Speaking as a Panelist at Grow with Video Live

As a panelist at GWVL, I was asked to speak about some of the challenges I have encountered as a YouTube creator. The moderator (shout out to Brian—you’re the best!) and the other panelists, including Cherie from Simply Cherie (love you!) and Think Media coach Sam (you are SO kind!), shared engaging stories with the audience.

What I Learned at Grow with Video Live

During the conference, I learned something that warmed my heart. Actually, there were two things. The first was that viewers are looking for authentic creators. The fact that I am 66, wear little make-up, share my real life and my real kitchen—two coffee pots, and all—and cook traditional foods in my apron (and sometimes wearing slippers), I hope I have accomplished this by being who I am on and off camera.

The second thing I learned was that viewers are looking for calm, long- form content. Woo Hoo! This news is music to my ears since I am well known as a YouTube creator who often makes hour-long videos, sometimes two-hour videos! Apparently, many viewers have been overstimulated with all the frenetic short-form content on TikTok. They are looking for authentic people—real people, not AI-generated images—who take the time to bring viewers into their lives and share a skill, some knowledge, or just some humor to lighten their hearts on heavy days.

Thank You For Being A Sweet Friend

I want to thank you for allowing me to come into your life with the videos I share, whether about cooking, stocking the pantry, growing a kitchen garden, or making natural herbal remedies. And when I share a little bit about my life with you on my Mary’s Nest YouTube Community Page— and you comment—you make my day!

You have seen me through so much: happy experiences that my husband and I have enjoyed together with 26 years of marriage and also the more challenging times, including my own personal struggles, the health issues of our sweet son Ben, and the heartbreaking loss of my sweet mom. You have been there for me through all of this!

Thank you so much for being on this traditional foods journey…and then some…with me! It’s a joy to know you, and I feel blessed many times over by your presence.

Tips for New YouTube Creators

If you’re a new YouTube creator or thinking about starting a YouTube channel, I encourage you to join Think Media’s Video Ranking Academy. You’ll get the latest advice on how to create videos and serve your YouTube audience.

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I look forward to having you join me in my Texas Hill Country Kitchen!

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