My Favorite YouTubers

I do not usually watch television; instead, I turn to YouTube, a platform that has become a popular source for both information and entertainment across my generation. While I primarily watch travel and family-oriented content, my viewing habits reflect broader trends discussed in social media research. 

Photo from FreePik

Growing up, I did not use YouTube frequently, but once I became familiar with the platform, I developed an interest in becoming a vlogger. At the time, I was an avid viewer of back-to-school videos and “what’s in my backpack” content. I even filmed my own backpack and travel bag hauls, although I never posted them due to nervousness. Looking back, my hesitation reflects a common theme in content creation: adherence to public opinion and perceived views. While I no longer dream of becoming a famous vlogger, I use YouTube regularly, especially while getting ready in the morning or before going to bed. 

The three YouTuber channels I frequently watch are Kara and Nate, the Crazy Middles and Kevin Langue. Outside of these, I often watch videos recommended to me by the app. Kara and Nate share their stories about their world travels. They have visited more than 100 countries and recently bought a house to serve as a permanent residence. They started a series called “50-50 Chance,” where they complete challenges where they have roughly a 50-50 chance of success. Some of my favorite videos are from the series. They include "30 Hours to Run 100 Miles", which is about a 100-mile race in Leadville, Colorado and the video"6 Marathons in 6 Days in the Sahara Desert". I also enjoy watching the Crazy Middles, a family channel built around foster care and adoption. The family vlogs their everyday lives and recently opened a candle and holiday shop. Kevin Langue brings together a group of his friends to create videos such as "5 Co-workers vs 1 Undercover Boss" and "5 Adults vs 1 Secret Baby.” 

This week, my social media course covered a chapter on YouTube. In the chapter, I learned that the platform was launched in 2005 and roughly one billion hours of content are watched each day. The largest age group of users falls between 25 and 34 years old. Additionally, the top four reasons people watch YouTube are to learn and gain instruction, to help decide what to buy, for inspiration and entertainment. 

For me, YouTube is an interactive way to learn and serves as an enjoyable break in my day!