Here is the complete step-by-step guide to starting a YouTube channel in 2026, plus the hidden settings most beginners miss. 📈 Want to break through on YouTube? Join our FREE 3-Day YouTube Growth Sprint for the ultimate plan to start getting views and grow your channel fast! ➡️ http://YTSprint.com/
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⏰ Timecodes ⏰
0:00 How to Create a YouTube Channel (2026)
0:21 Step 1: Create a Google Brand Account
1:28 Step 2: Naming Your Channel & Handle
2:28 Step 3: Uploading a Profile Picture
3:16 Step 4: Important Feature Settings (Don’t Skip!)
3:44 How to Unlock Custom Thumbnails (Phone Verification)
4:15 Unlocking Advanced Features (Video Verification)
5:10 The “Upload Default” Privacy Hack
6:11 Setting Your Channel Category
6:39 Is Your Channel “Made for Kids”?
7:16 How to Add Managers to Your Channel
7:48 Customizing Your Channel Bio & Description
8:28 Where to Upload Your Channel Banner
8:52 Setting Up Your Business Email
9:32 How to Get Monetized
10:22 Your Next Step
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#thinkmedia #seancannell #youtubetips
If you want to set up a YouTube channel the right way, this is your step-by-step breakdown. Many beginners create an account but miss the crucial “backend” settings that actually help your content reach the right people.
In this video, I walk you through the entire process—from creating a brand account (to keep your personal email private) to verifying your phone number so you can upload custom thumbnails.
We also dive into the “Upload Defaults” hack that prevents you from accidentally publishing a video too early, and exactly how to set up your channel for future monetization.
In this video, you will learn:
** The Setup:** How to create a “Brand Account” vs. a Personal Account.
The Features: How to unlock 15+ minute videos and custom thumbnails.
The Safety Net: Why you should always set your upload default to “Unlisted.”
The Law: COPPA – Is your channel “Made for Kids”
The Money: Requirements for the YouTube Partner Program in 2026.
Our mission here at Think Media is to help purpose-driven entrepreneurs go full-time doing what they love and making an impact through the power of video.
Disclaimer: Please see the link for our disclaimer policy for all of our videos on the Think Media and Think Media Podcast YouTube channels. https://go.thinkmedia.com/youtube-disclaimer
