Something I discovered not so long ago that I wish I had years ago is to watch the video first and then code along after. So simple but makes a world of difference, you can skip errors, fluff and foresee what's next, all around you'd think it's watching two 2 hour videos but it works out in terms of getting the most out of the content and drilling it into your head.

I've found that actually running the code has been very beneficial in understanding. This, along with reasoning for each line of code and spending a lot of time with the video paused and discussing and explaining to each other what we understood.

Same. I also found the exercises to be useful.

Running the code helps with understanding and developing practical skills.

Watching only is much nicer for entertainment.