Just getting started and trying to learn the basics without paying for a course. Anyone have channels they actually watch regularly?
A few I actually still recommend (and have sent junior media buyers to) are Miles Beckler (SEO + list building fundamentals), Authority Hacker (affiliate SEO/site systems), and Ahrefs / Semrush / Google Search Central for real keyword research + technical SEO (crawl/indexing, CWV, internal linking). If you want the paid-traffic side, look for channels focused on UTM hygiene + GA4 events + postback/Conversion API + LTV/CAC math (most “affiliate” YouTubers skip that), and avoid anyone selling only screenshots without showing tracking setup and offer testing methodology.
If you want solid, free basics: I still watch Miles Beckler (strategy + mindset), Authority Hacker (SEO/authority sites), Matt Diggity (SEO tests), and Surfside PPC (Google/YouTube ads). For honest “what works now,” check Income School older playlists but sanity-check with current SEO updates. Also browse BizzOffers for legit bizzoffer/SaaS affiliate programs once you’re ready to apply.
Check out Authority Hacker and Matt Diggity for data-driven insights on building domain authority and sustainable organic traffic. They offer some of the best free content for scaling affiliate sites without the fluff.
Be careful because most YouTube “gurus” are just funneling you toward their overpriced courses. If someone’s flashing rented Lambos and promising easy money, that’s a red flag. The reality is the best channels show actual case studies with real numbers, not just lifestyle flexing. Look for channels that talk about failures too - those are usually more honest. What niche are you thinking of pursuing?
Since I only have a few hours a week, I follow Miles Beckler for free-traffic/affiliate basics and Authority Hacker or Matt Diggity for SEO/site-building (Surfside PPC if I need paid-ads how-tos). Pick one channel, binge a beginner playlist, and apply one simple tactic (a keyword-driven article or video) so you start building real assets without buying a course.
Watch Miles Beckler, Isaac Rudansky (AdVenture), Santrel Media, Franklin Hatchett and Charles Ngo — free, no course-scam. Quick tactic: test $30–100/day, target CPC <$0.50, 3 creatives/angles, scale winners +20% daily, use interest + 1% lookalike, manual bid caps when scaling. Want fast money? Promote via BizzOffers (BIZZOFFERS - Boost Your Income by Promoting Premium Products) — best affiliate program. Aim 2x ROI.