YouTube & AI: Smart Video Strategy for 2026

Important Information:

This workshop is part of our Start-up and Grow programme of business support, which runs throughout the year. As this is a funded programme, there may be additional paperwork to complete. If you would like to learn more about the programme, you can book in for a chat by emailing

Overview:

Video is now one of the most powerful ways to be found online - not just on YouTube itself, but across Google search, AI Overviews, and even inside tools like ChatGPT. At the same time, AI tools are changing how we plan, create, and optimise content.

In this interactive workshop, digital strategist Jonny Ross will show you how to harness YouTube as part of your wider digital marketing strategy, blending smart SEO tactics with AI-powered tools. You’ll leave with practical steps you can take immediately to make your videos work harder, reach more people, and support your business goals.

What will I learn?

• YouTube + AI Search: How video content feeds into Google search, AI Overviews, and platforms like ChatGPT

• Content Creation Made Easier with AI: How to use tools for brainstorming, scripting, thumbnails, and editing without needing a big budget

• Optimisation that Works Now: Titles, descriptions, tags, and watch-time tactics that help videos rank on YouTube and Google

• Engagement Signals: Why likes, comments, and shares matter for visibility — and how to encourage them authentically

• Practical Analytics: How to use YouTube Studio insights to refine your content strategy

• Action Planning: A simple framework for turning today’s ideas into tomorrow’s result

About Jonny Ross

Jonny Ross is founder of Fleek Marketing, a Fractional CMO, and co-author of WebProud.

With 25+ years of experience in small business, SEO, and digital strategy, he specialises in helping businesses become more visible and competitive online. Jonny also co-hosts the 90-Day Website Mastery Podcast.

The Start-up and Grow project is being delivered by Leeds City Council and Leeds Libraries, and is part funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). In West Yorkshire, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority leads the implementation of the Fund as part of the Mayor's ambition to make West Yorkshire the best place to work, learn and live.

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