For Julie Nolke, her breakout YouTube video, “Explaining The Pandemic to My Past Self,” struck a chord globally, amassing over 21 million views and turning her into an overnight sensation. Known for her wit and relatability, Nolke brought humour to uncertainty, crafting a unique blend of comedy that resonated with millions. This achievement catapulted her career, paving the way for a thriving YouTube channel with over a million subscribers. A classically trained actor and content creator, Nolke’s journey from York University’s drama program to viral fame is a testament to hard work, versatility, and an entrepreneurial spirit.

Has your theatrical training at York University shaped your skillset and career?

My classical training in the Bachelor of Fine Arts program at York University is crucial, and I use it constantly. A solid foundation as an actor and creator before producing content is essential. If we talk about Jackson Pollock—now, I’m not comparing myself to him in any manner—he could create an incredible still life because of the formal training he had under his belt. I think it’s the same with acting. When I do characters with accents, precision matters, so I rely on the tools I learned at university. Similarly, I use methods to protect my voice if I’m doing a lot of yelling in a sketch. The best part is you get to be silly and play around, but that’s where a strong base plays its part. Without it, you limit yourself, and in this industry, it’s about being flexible and prepared to play with freedom while maintaining a solid foundation. Training or a strong foundation is essential for longevity in this career.

How did your YouTube channel’s corporate sponsorship transition into an entrepreneurial venture?

I love talking about this because I feel like I didn’t have anybody to guide me through. Before the pandemic and my channel blew up, I had been on YouTube for five years, making content for other production companies. For me, it was vital to diversify income streams. I’ve always had a lot of irons in the fire because that’s necessary in this industry. I monetized through AdSense, branded videos, Instagram posts, Patreon, and sometimes merch when I went viral. That financial freedom allowed me to create what I wanted without the pressure of hitting AdSense view goals. I advise you to have multiple income streams to relieve financial stress and avoid limiting your creativity.

At what point did you feel like you bumped yourself up a level?

The game changer for me was purchasing a new camera and lights. When we started, it was a mess. Upgrading our gear improved the quality and efficiency of the content and made it more visually appealing. Another great decision was bringing on my editor, who has been with us for about a year and a half. I like to control my videos, but he is phenomenal and often surprises me with creative touches that elevate the content. That was a good move on my part. Of course, receiving a Webby Award—the most prestigious accolade for online video creators—was a significant highlight. I’m also excited to embark on a new chapter in my career with a Canadian production company, creating a 10-episode YouTube sketch channel.

What advice would you give aspiring creators navigating the landscape of content creation?

Start where you are with what you have, and focus on authenticity. It’s easy to get caught up in trends or compare yourself to others, but what stands out is your unique voice. Consistency is critical; even if the quality isn’t perfect initially, showing up helps you improve and build a connection with your audience. Don’t underestimate the importance of networking. Some of my best opportunities came from people I met who believed in my work. And remember, success takes time. Five years of hard work led to my “overnight” viral moment, so be patient and enjoy the process.

Dave Gordon | Contributing Writer