Newsletter, Podcast, YouTube: Which One Should You Start With?

 

Choosing between a newsletter, podcast, or YouTube channel can feel like being handed a Swiss army knife and asked to pick your favorite blade. All three platforms are potent, and each offers a different angle of influence, community, and income. But let’s cut through the noise and figure out which is right for your energy, goals, and audience.

The Platform Trifecta: A Quick Breakdown

Before diving into strategy, it's essential to decode what each platform really brings to the table. While they may overlap in audience potential, the method of delivery, tone, and reach differs drastically.

• Newsletter: Text-based intimacy. A curated space where you speak directly to your audience’s inbox.

• Podcast: Audio-based storytelling. Ideal for long-form content and cultivating deep engagement.

• YouTube: Visual-first content. The algorithm loves it, and discoverability is off the charts.

They’re all legit. But your starting point? That’s a strategic decision, not a popularity contest.

Starting with a Newsletter: The Writer’s Playground

A newsletter is for those who think with their fingertips. If you’re wired to express yourself through writing, a newsletter offers a low-friction way to start building a loyal audience.

Pros:

• High engagement: People choose to receive your emails.

• Direct connection: No algorithm. No gatekeeper. You’re in the inbox.

• Ideal for thought leadership, niche knowledge, or storytelling.

Cons:

• Limited virality: It’s harder for a newsletter to go viral.

• Design matters: Plain-text works, but visuals elevate.

• Less immediate feedback loop.

Best for: Analysts, writers, founders, industry insiders, and anyone with hot takes or valuable insights.

Pro move: Pair your newsletter with Twitter or LinkedIn for maximum reach and subscriber growth.

Starting with a Podcast: The Deep Talker’s Delight

A podcast is a vibe. It’s like inviting your audience into your brain for a fireside chat—minus the fire hazard. It’s perfect for people who have lots to say and want to build a parasocial bond with listeners.

Pros:

• Deep trust: Hearing someone’s voice builds real connection.

• Multi-task friendly: Listeners can engage while driving, working, or walking.

• Great for interviews and nuanced conversation.

Cons:

• Discoverability is brutal: Most podcasts grow slowly without cross-promotion.

• Production isn’t plug-and-play: Audio editing, music intros, scheduling—it adds up.

• Monetization can be a slow burn.

Best for: Thought leaders, subject matter experts, or anyone who can spin a compelling narrative without needing visuals.

Power tip: Record on video too and repurpose clips to build presence on YouTube or Reels.

Starting with YouTube: The Discovery Engine

YouTube is the heavyweight. If you want reach, visibility, and the chance to go viral with a single upload, this is where the magic happens. But the bar is high—your visuals, editing, and presence all need to punch above average.

Pros:

• Massive discoverability: The algorithm actually wants to help you.

• Searchability: Evergreen content can generate views for years.

• High monetization potential: Ads, sponsors, memberships, and more.

Cons:

• High production demand: Scriptwriting, filming, editing, thumbnails, SEO. It’s work.

• You’re on camera: No hiding behind a mic or keyboard.

• Burnout risk is real: Creators often feel the pressure to post constantly.

Best for: Entertainers, educators, creators with visual storytelling skills, and anyone who enjoys being in front of the camera.

Hot tip: Even talking-head explainer videos work well—no need for crazy cinematics.

So... Which One Should You Start With?

The answer? It depends on your strengths, resources, and goals.

Start with a Newsletter if...

• You’re a strong writer who thrives in solitude.

• You have niche knowledge that people will pay attention to.

• You want to own your audience from Day One.

A newsletter is a long-game strategy. It doesn’t just build a following—it builds loyalty. It’s your direct line to your readers, immune to algorithm tantrums.

Start with a Podcast if...

• You’re a great speaker or conversationalist.

• You have access to interesting guests or unique insights.

• You want to build a slow-burn but deeply loyal audience.

A podcast is the ultimate medium for building trust. It’s a commitment, both for you and the listener. But once they’re hooked, they’re ride-or-die.

Start with YouTube if...

• You have creative flair and camera confidence.

• You want the fastest route to large-scale visibility.

• You’re down to invest in gear, editing, and learning SEO.

YouTube rewards consistency, clarity, and charisma. It’s the most competitive, but also the most explosive if done right.

Think Like an Ecosystem, Not a Platform

Whichever one you start with, the ultimate goal is synergy. Your newsletter, podcast, and YouTube channel shouldn’t be silos—they should feed into each other.

• Use YouTube to attract attention, and direct viewers to your newsletter.

• Use your newsletter to promote new podcast episodes.

• Take audio clips from your podcast and turn them into visual teasers for YouTube Shorts.

Each platform plays a role. Together, they form a media flywheel that gains momentum over time.

Closing Thoughts

Building an audience today isn’t about doing everything. It’s about doing one thing well—then expanding with intention. Whether you start with a newsletter, a podcast, or YouTube, what matters most is consistency, clarity, and connection.

Don’t wait for the perfect moment or platform. Start where your energy is highest and your strengths are loudest.

Because in the creator economy, action beats perfection—and momentum is your real superpower.