Appreciation & Integrity
To those of you who’ve dipped into your hard-earned cash to donate when you felt compelled to do so, thank you.
I am also grateful to those of you who watch my videos all the way through to the end.
You probably don’t realize doing so lets the YouTube algorithm know that the video is worth watching and presents it to more men who may not be aware of my channel.
Many of you aren’t aware of how much it costs to produce free content.
Some may have questioned the integrity of creators who look for ways to cover their costs of production (and living expenses for full-time creators).
For Example
Even though I write my blogs and film my own videos, I also have a video editor; an IT team; and someone who writes the descriptions and closed captions on YouTube (the automatic captions aren’t always accurate and men with limited hearing deserve accurate CCs).
There are also costs associated with hosting and maintaining websites, storing email addresses (for newsletters and program participation follow-up) and many other costs that often run in the thousands of dollars (mine do).
Creators who publish a lot of content, accept any sponsor, or push products or services can and do make a lot of money (even many who genuinely want to help people).
But for someone like me who only publishes one video a week (partly due to health); doesn’t constantly push product sales, and has turned down every sponsor because I don’t believe in their product or service, YouTube ad revenue doesn’t even cover my business expenses, never mind my living expenses.
I am not making bank. (Not that I think there’s anything wrong with making money by helping others.)
In February, my business expenses exceeded my business income. I almost threw in the towel and quit to get “a real job.”
When I told my team, some of them offered a pay cut to ride out what we hoped was the bottom. (Thank you, Team!)
I’m not telling you this to ask for money.
I’m telling you this because I’ve had my integrity questioned and figured some of you might have similar thoughts.
If I were wealthy, I’d continue doing what I’m doing (with a swankier filming studio, mind you).
As my health improves, God willing, I’ll be able to do more. But even then I’ll offer only as much as I can while maintaining my sanity and a genuine desire to help. (Being a workaholic is part of what caused my health issues.)
Until then, thank you for understanding, I love you and God bless.
If you have feedback, please post it in a public comment.
I have little doubt of your integrity. It would be easy for you to sign up all sorts of seemingly "benign" sponsorships — like coffee companies, men's grooming and hygiene, or supposed "royal" titles. In short, if you're primary desire is to make buck instead of publishing quality content, you're doing a lousy job (you're welcome ;). That you want to stick to your convictions is deeply admirable. If you're forced to walk away from YouTube to make a living, I, for one, will miss you. But you have a right and need to make a living. Whatever you do, I'll be praying for your spiritual and physical health and prosperity. On a platform filled with anger, despair, hedonism, and hatred when it comes to relationships, you have dared to speak the unwanted truth and make a difference. For that, I remain grateful and hope you are able to continue. Praying for you continuously. God bless you! — Russ P PS/ And Tyson would miss your virtual scratches, too! 😉
Thank you so much, Russ! I know most people who have a difficult time trusting feel so because of their own experiences and are more sensitive to not wanting to be duped or feel like a fool for trusting the wrong person. I feel for them! And if someone had the courage to tell me their concerns, I know there must be others who wonder. I appreciate your continued support and prayers! God willing, I’ll be here for many more years of virtual scratches!
I wish you all the very best Anna. I find your videos informative and entertaining too. I genuinely hope that your health not only holds up but improves and life returns to a great quality for you. Please know that it is more than your content that is valued. You are too! Please take good care and accept my best wishes and care to you.
Thank you so much, Wayne! My health does seem to be improving, slowly but (hopefully) surely. I appreciate your encouragement and kind words! 🙂
Anna,
Thank you for everything you have done, continue to do, and will do for the single-man community. Your unique perspective and fun personality give hope to many, especially this guy. After reading many blogs, viewing videos, etc. I have found nowhere the diversity of content, the personal perspective, and the articulated conversation help that I have seen in your material. Please keep up the good work. Men need the material that you offer. I would think that the good women of the world would appreciate your work as well. Just a side note, if you ever make personal appearances it would be great to meet you.
I will pray that you overcome your illness and continue to do great things with your life.
Love
Thank you for your prayers and kind words, Will, and for appreciating my content! It means the world to me and if I ever get out in this world for any in-person events, I’ll be sure to let my loyal subscribers know first! 🙂
Hello Anna,
Thank you for your candor and sincerity .
I didn't realize that this was a full time job for you. I thought you were a full time life coach, and this was a sideline. I was considering being one of your clients. Thank you for clarifying.
All the best to you.
Thank you, Albert! I used to coach but it became too much for me. Now, I send all one-on-one clients to someone I personally selected. So far all positive feedback about her! You can find out more about her here if interested. And thank you for watching my videos!