Creator's Compass | January 2025 Edition

Hey everyone, I'm John Baroshi, and welcome to the very first edition of The Video Essay Newsletter! I'm excited to kick things off by sharing a few video essays that dive into moments, trends, and stories from the past that still resonant with us today. These video essays make you realize how much we sometimes overlook and how the things we leave behind can still shape the present.

Title: How Taylor Swift Shaped the 2010s

Creator: Polyphonic

Duration: 17:34

Why It Stands Out:
This one takes a deep dive into Taylor Swift’s massive influence during the 2010s and why her impact goes beyond just pop music. The essay shows how her evolving narrative shaped her career and the larger cultural landscape of the decade.

My Takeaway:
How artists can define an entire generation by being both a product of their time and a driver of cultural change.

The 3x3 Video Essay Framework: A Tool for Streamlined Creativity and Growth

What It Is:

The 3x3 Video Essay Framework is a simple yet effective technique to help creators save time, boost creativity, and grow their audience. It organizes the process into three core stages, each with three actionable steps, ensuring clarity and efficiency throughout the creation journey.

The Framework:

Stage 1: Research & Ideation

1. Pick a Core Theme: Choose one idea that resonates with your niche (e.g., timeless lessons, cultural reflections, or hidden gems).

2. Identify 3 Supporting Examples: Find three pieces of content (movies, books, or real-world stories) that tie back to your theme.

3. Audience POV: "Why would my audience care about this?" ask yourself. Provide a clear value proposition to introduce the subject.

Stage 2: Storyboarding & Scripting

1. The Hook: Write a compelling opening that grabs attention within the first 10 seconds—ask a provocative question or set up an unexpected insight.

2. The Structure: Use a clear narrative arc: problem, exploration, resolution. Break it into three sections, each driven by one supporting example.

3. CTA Layering: Add subtle audience growth strategies (e.g., call-to-action for comments, subscriptions, or sharing) that naturally fit into the story flow.

Stage 3: Production & Editing

1. Visual Hierarchy: Pair each section with three engaging visual types (e.g., clips, animations, and on-screen quotes) to hold attention.

2. Sound Design: Use three audio layers including the voiceover, subtle music, and sound effects—to enhance emotional resonance.

3. Polish the Ending: End with a thought-provoking statement or call-to-action that leaves the audience reflecting or wanting more.

This month’s hidden gem shines a light on an under the radar video essay that deserves the spotlight. It may not have the widest audience, but it offers a unique perspective on 90’s cult classic Hey Arnold!

Title: The Gentle Principles of Hey Arnold

Creator: Quality Culture

Duration: 20:24

Why It Stands Out:
This video essay dives into the heart of Hey Arnold, a show that often goes underappreciated. It explores lessons about life, friendship, and growing up that the series subtly teaches. I love how it highlights the depth of a seemingly simple kids show and how it impacted a generation.

My Takeaway:
The shows we grew up with can shape our understanding of empathy, community, and personal growth without us even realizing it.

This month’s market trends & insights highlight a tectonic shift in the video essay landscape.The increasing popularity of long form video essays among Gen Z creators and audiences. One prime example of the resurgence of long form video essays is Jenny Nicholson's upload. This video delves into the her opinionated shortcomings of Disney's Star Wars themed hotel, offering a comprehensive critique spanning four hours. Nicholson's meticulous examination and engaging presentation has greatly resonated with audiences, reflecting the growing appetite for detailed and thoughtful content.

Title: The Spectacular Failure of the Star Wars Hotel

Creator: Jenny Nicholson

Duration: 4:05:38

My Takeaway: To align with this trend, creators should focus on producing well researched and engaging long-form content that provides in-depth analysis and insights. By dedicating time to explore topics thoroughly, creators can attract viewers seeking substantial and informative material, building a dedicated and appreciative audience.