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How to Open Patreon Videos on YouTube: A Creator’s Guide

The burning question: How do you open Patreon videos on YouTube? The short answer is, you generally don’t. Patreon videos are hosted on Patreon’s platform, not directly on YouTube. However, there are clever ways to integrate YouTube into your Patreon strategy to drive engagement and offer exclusive content to your patrons. This article will detail these strategies, explore the nuances of content visibility, and answer frequently asked questions to help you navigate the world of creator monetization.

Understanding the Core Difference: Patreon vs. YouTube

Before diving into strategies, let’s clarify the distinction. Patreon is a membership platform. Creators offer exclusive content and benefits to patrons in exchange for recurring financial support. YouTube is a video-sharing platform primarily focused on broader reach and ad-based monetization.

The key difference is accessibility. YouTube content is generally public (or at least unlisted with a shareable link). Patreon content is, by design, gated behind a paywall, accessible only to paying patrons.

Strategies for Integrating Patreon and YouTube

While you can’t directly open a Patreon video on YouTube in the traditional sense, you can leverage YouTube to promote your Patreon and reward your patrons. Here’s how:

1. Early Access on Patreon, Public Release on YouTube

This is a common and effective strategy. Release videos on Patreon first to give your paying supporters an exclusive preview. After a set period (e.g., one week, one month), release the same video publicly on your YouTube channel. This incentivizes subscribing to your Patreon for early access.

Benefits: Provides a tangible benefit for Patreon subscribers, drives YouTube views later, and builds anticipation.
Considerations: Clearly communicate the release schedule to your audience. Use end screens and cards on the YouTube video to promote your Patreon.

2. Behind-the-Scenes Content on Patreon, Highlights on YouTube

Create behind-the-scenes footage, bloopers, or extended cuts exclusively for Patreon. These can be supplementary to your regular YouTube videos. Use short clips and teasers on YouTube to tantalize viewers and encourage them to join your Patreon for the full experience.

Benefits: Offers unique content that complements your YouTube channel, caters to dedicated fans, and provides valuable insights into your creative process.
Considerations: Ensure the behind-the-scenes content is engaging and adds value beyond the main YouTube video.

3. YouTube “Teaser” Videos with Patreon Calls to Action

Create short, engaging “teaser” videos on YouTube specifically designed to promote your Patreon. Highlight the benefits of becoming a patron, showcase exclusive content, and explain how their support helps you create more of what they love.

Benefits: Directly addresses your audience and explains the value proposition of Patreon, increases Patreon sign-ups, and can be reused across multiple platforms.
Considerations: Keep the teaser videos concise and visually appealing. Include a clear call to action with a direct link to your Patreon page.

4. Patreon-Exclusive YouTube Playlists (Indirectly)

While you can’t directly embed a Patreon video within a YouTube playlist, you can create playlists on YouTube that complement your Patreon content. For example, if your Patreon features in-depth tutorials, your YouTube playlist could contain introductory videos or examples related to those tutorials. You can then link to your Patreon within the playlist description.

Benefits: Enhances the overall value of both your YouTube channel and Patreon, provides a structured learning experience for your audience, and directs viewers to your Patreon for more in-depth content.
Considerations: Ensure the YouTube videos in the playlist are relevant to your Patreon content. Actively manage and update the playlist.

5. Patron-Only Shout-Outs and Content Integration

Publicly acknowledge your patrons in your YouTube videos. Give shout-outs, feature their names in the credits, or even incorporate their suggestions into your content (where appropriate). This fosters a sense of community and shows appreciation for their support.

Benefits: Strengthens the connection between you and your patrons, encourages continued support, and attracts new patrons who want to be recognized.
Considerations: Obtain permission before featuring patrons’ names or suggestions. Ensure the shout-outs are genuine and heartfelt.

Optimizing for Discoverability and Engagement

Regardless of the chosen strategy, remember to optimize both your YouTube videos and Patreon page for discoverability and engagement. This includes:

Compelling Titles and Thumbnails: Use clear, concise titles and eye-catching thumbnails that accurately reflect the content.
Detailed Descriptions: Write detailed descriptions that include relevant keywords, links to your Patreon, and calls to action.
Regular Uploads: Maintain a consistent upload schedule to keep your audience engaged.
Active Community Engagement: Respond to comments, answer questions, and foster a sense of community on both YouTube and Patreon.
Cross-Promotion: Promote your YouTube channel on your Patreon page and vice versa.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I embed a Patreon video directly into a YouTube video?

No, you cannot directly embed a Patreon video into a YouTube video. Patreon videos are hosted on Patreon’s platform and not designed to be embedded on external websites like YouTube.

2. Is it against Patreon’s terms of service to re-upload Patreon videos to YouTube after a delay?

No, it is generally not against Patreon’s terms of service to re-upload videos to YouTube after a delay, as long as you own the rights to the content. However, always double-check Patreon’s current terms of service to be sure, as they can change.

3. How can I protect my Patreon content from being shared illegally?

Watermarking your videos with your Patreon username or logo can discourage unauthorized sharing. Additionally, clearly state in your terms of service that sharing paid content is prohibited. While these measures aren’t foolproof, they can act as a deterrent.

4. Should I offer different tiers on Patreon with varying levels of YouTube content access?

This is a viable strategy. You could offer lower tiers access to early releases on YouTube, while higher tiers receive more exclusive content or behind-the-scenes access. This incentivizes patrons to upgrade their subscriptions.

5. What are some good tools for creating teaser videos for YouTube to promote my Patreon?

Tools like Adobe Premiere Rush, FilmoraGo, and Canva can be used to create visually appealing and engaging teaser videos for YouTube.

6. How often should I post on YouTube to effectively promote my Patreon?

The ideal frequency depends on your niche and audience. However, a general guideline is to aim for at least one video per week to maintain engagement and visibility.

7. What kind of analytics should I track to measure the success of my Patreon/YouTube integration?

Track metrics like Patreon subscriber growth, YouTube views on videos promoting your Patreon, conversion rates from YouTube to Patreon, and overall revenue from both platforms.

8. Can I use YouTube’s membership feature instead of Patreon?

YouTube’s membership feature is an alternative to Patreon, but it may not offer the same level of customization and control. Consider your specific needs and goals when choosing a platform. Patreon often provides more flexibility in terms of tiers, rewards, and community management.

9. How do I link my Patreon to my YouTube channel?

You can add a link to your Patreon in your YouTube channel’s banner, “About” section, and video descriptions. This makes it easy for viewers to find and support you on Patreon.

10. What’s the best way to handle negative feedback about requiring payment for content on Patreon?

Acknowledge the feedback respectfully. Explain the value proposition of Patreon and how it allows you to create more content. Emphasize that YouTube content remains free and accessible.

11. Should I remove my Patreon exclusive content from YouTube after the early access period?

This is a personal choice. Removing the content might create a greater sense of exclusivity for your Patreon subscribers, but keeping it on YouTube can continue to drive traffic and potential Patreon sign-ups. Consider testing both strategies to see what works best for your audience.

12. How can I encourage my Patreon subscribers to engage with my YouTube channel?

Offer exclusive rewards or perks for Patreon subscribers who engage with your YouTube content, such as priority comment replies or the chance to have their questions answered in videos. Regularly mention your YouTube channel on your Patreon page.