How to Grow on YouTube in 2026 — Derral Eves’ Playbook (Full Interview)

What does it really take to grow on YouTube in 2026?In this full interview, YouTube growth expert Derral Eves shares his playbook for building successful, sustainable YouTube channels in today's creator economy.Derral has advised some of the world's top creators and brands, and in this conversation we break down how YouTube actually works — beyond the surface-level tips.In this episode, we cover:00:00 – Introduction & why YouTube growth looks different in 202602:10 – Derral Eves' background and what he's learned from top creators06:15 – The fundamentals of sustainable YouTube growth11:40 – Why most creators stall (and how to avoid it)16:10 – How the YouTube algorithm actually works20:45 – What creators misunderstand about views vs. audience25:25 – The real role of retention and watch time30:10 – Strategy vs. tactics: thinking long-term on YouTube35:05 – Building a real business on top of YouTube40:20 – Mistakes creators make when chasing growth45:00 – Where YouTube is heading next49:10 – Final advice for creators serious about 2026 and beyondWhether you're an aspiring creator, an established YouTuber, or a business using YouTube to grow an audience, this conversation will help you think more clearly and strategically about your content.🎙️ Guest: Derral Eves🎧 Host: Rob BalasabasIf you're serious about YouTube growth in 2026 and beyond, this is a must-watch.LINKS & RESOURCES:👉 Subscribe to The Upload Newsletter: https://balasabas.substack.comThank you to our partners:Opus Clip: https://www.opus.pro/?via=robStreamyard: https://streamyard.com/?fpr=goliveUscreen: https://www.uscreen.tvEcamm: http://ecamm.balasabas.liveConnect with Rob:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robbalasabasInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rob.balasabasBusiness + Partnership Inquiries: [email protected]