VidCon has consistently served as a center for grasping the dynamics of internet stardom. It’s a place where creators trade tips, recount their journeys, and discover how to adeptly maneuver through the digital landscape. This year, with the evolution of algorithms, the transformation of platforms, and a more discerning audience, the creator playbook is being revised on the fly.

The 2025 VidCon agenda showcases the essentials for thriving as a digital creator. Whether you’re just starting out or juggling brand partnerships and fatigue, every panel, Q&A, and meet-and-greet offers invaluable perspectives.

We’ve gathered the most insightful, unexpected, and candid takeaways from today’s VidCon discussions. From building niche communities to setting mental health safeguards and converting content into a viable career, these are the lessons that creators are adopting — and the advice you’ll want to take to heart, document, and possibly live by.

Curiosity is the cornerstone of holding viewer attention

Kai Plunk, the mind behind several of MrBeast’s top videos, shared in his masterclass “Why’d They Click Off” that effective video retention hinges on grasping human psychology, meticulous pre-production planning, and incorporating captivating visuals and soundscapes.

Fostering a connection with your audience is essential, which can be achieved through regular posting and storytelling fueled by curiosity. Retention isn’t about flashiness; it’s about delivering quality.

-Christianna Silva

Not every type of engagement is beneficial engagement

Todd Beaupré, YouTube’s senior director of growth and discovery, elaborated during the “YouTube Decoded” panel on how the platform’s algorithm suggests content.

Beaupré noted that the algorithm employs collaborative filtering, taking into account everything it knows about a user to prioritize videos in the recommendations. It also utilizes data from users with analogous viewing habits to propose new content.

Beaupré underscored the necessity for creators to genuinely understand their audience, as not all engagement has a positive effect. Dislikes on videos do matter and can influence a video’s ranking.

-Samantha Mangino

This story will be refreshed throughout VidCon.

Mashable will be live from the Anaheim Convention Center this week, reporting on VidCon 2025. Return in the coming days to Mashable.com, where we’ll be interviewing your favorite creators, covering emerging trends, and detailing how creators are expanding their followers, their influence, and their online livelihoods.