Funny and informative
CGP Grey
High signal-to-noise ratio, and insane dedication to research.
If you only watch one video from this whole list, I recommend this one:
7 Ways to Maximize Misery
Here’s some less practical advice.
How to Become Pope
Sam O’Nella
Little-known facts, with jokes.
Why Produce Used to Suck
One of his earlier videos is also hilarious (caution, audio NSFW):
The Pineapple Twist: Sam O’Nella Dubs
(Start it 42 seconds in; it’s not funny before that.)
Casually Explained
Like Wait But Why’s descriptions of the trials of daily life[1], but with deadpan narration.
Casually Explained: The English Language
Polymatter
I’d call these excellent powerpoint presentations. Watch if you’re interested in the topics.
How Hong Kong Built the World’s Best Transit
Wendover Productions
Most of their videos are about airplanes—not so interesting—but I love the geography ones.
Every Country in the World: Part 1
Internet Historian
If you were around for the things he talks about, you’ll appreciate his shrewd analysis.
(Age-restricted; this video is called “Planking: A Historical Footnote.”)
NOT recommended: Kurzgesagt
I have to mention this channel, because otherwise someone will say “Have you tried Kurzgesagt? It seems like something you’d like.”
Wrong. I strongly dislike this channel.
For example:
The Origin of Consciousness – How Unaware Things Became Aware
This one doesn’t count towards the “29 videos” in the post title, because it’s not recommended.
This video is well made, but soo slow. I could die of boredom before it ever gets to the interesting part.
This one is even worse:
Nuclear Energy Explained: How does it work? 1/3
(Ironically, CGP Grey says this is his favorite YouTube channel, and that he fears he’ll never measure up to the high bar they set. You’re so much better than that, Grey!)
I will, however, note that their recent solar flares video is sweet vindication of my post on why you should probably fear the apocalypse.
Could Solar Storms Destroy Civilization? Solar Flares & Coronal Mass Ejections
(This one is recommended only if you still don’t believe me.)
Just funny
Gus Johnson
Hundreds of great videos. It was hard to narrow it down to just three.
your friend who has been to the restaurant before
helping mom use the ipad
white girl ukulele song
Trey Kennedy
He can play anyone, from middle schoolers to office workers to bridesmaids.
Every Bachelorette Party in Nashville
John B. Crist
I went to a church youth group and Christian summer camp, so I relate to the ones that poke fun at Christianity…
Bible Verse Lady Goes to Vegas
And on a secular note:
If golf and soccer switched announcers
ProZD
A voice like smooth dark chocolate. Again, hard to pick three.
having a non-white name
before and after you discover the subreddit for a hobby
when you start a new game and you meet the character you know is going to betray you
Okay, one more:
Naming the main character your name in a video game
Miel
Originally a Vine star, she only has seven videos, but they are charming and unique.
Hiking Interactions
Nigahiga
The OG. I found him by (sincerely) searching for “how to be emo” back in 2007. Thirteen years later, he’s still my favorite YouTuber.
Look how much he packs into one 7-minute video (skip to 5:25 if you don’t like his ADHD-ness):
“Let It Go” Rap Song! (Dear Ryan)
KevJumba
Another one of the greats. Sadly, he stopped posting regularly ~7 years ago, and only halfheartedly came back.
Anyway, here’s a catchy song about a then-newly named phenomenon:
Nice Guys
CollegeHumor
So many good ones, from POVs and Adam Ruins Everything to If Google Was a Guy (see most popular for more), but here’s a personal fave.
Pixar Intro Parody
I also enjoy the If Google Was a Guy series.
If Google Was a Guy
French
Cyprien
Call me basic—I know he’s the French YouTuber—but he really is good.
Witness his perfect skewering of Instagram wannabes. (Turn on captions for English subtitles.)
CYPRIEN-THE INSTAGRAMERS
Paul Taylor
He has a full stand-up show on YouTube, as well as regular vlogs. Especially great if you’re learning French.
FRENCH PEOPLE SUCK AT ENGLISH – #FRANGLAIS – PAUL TAYLOR
Cooking
Binging with Babish
Top-notch commitment to the craft (of hosting an online cooking show). I never make anything from his videos—too complicated—but I watch anyway for his commentary.
Binging with Babish: Tiramisu from Superbad
Internet Shaquille
No fluff, just relentless respect for his audience.
Why Aren’t Your Potatoes Crispy Enough?
I also enjoy his series on how to prepare the same type of food three different ways.
Easier Tastier Prettier – Crudités
Notes
[1] See, for example, 11 awkward things about email.
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