How Much Our Small Channel Earned in 3 Months

[@OpenRoading]

We are going to do a Q&A episode in the near future...so if you have any questions about Joe, Kalyn, RV life, you name it reply to this comment, or just drop it anywhere in the comment section!

[@rmangold]

More of a concern than a question: I heard Alaska roads can be very difficult to traverse. There are horror stories of bent frames, axles, tire blow outs, break downs, and more. Are you budgeted for that and do you think your aging trailer will withstand the trip?

[@OpenRoading]

@@rmangold Good question. And I think we should discuss it in our Q&A but many of the horror stories are from years ago. The road there, while not perfect, have improved greatly. Of course the further you get north....but at the moment we aren't planning to go to the arctic circle. I haven't found anyone who has made the trek recently, who also boondocks, who has thought the roads were terrible. In my research people who's last experience with Alaska tell me I need to have 3 extra fuel cans, 6 spare tires, and a spare part for everything (slight exaggeration on my part for effect 😁). And anyone who's gone within the past 5 years is like "The roads aren't quite as good, but they aren't terrible." -J

[@rmangold]

Best of luck to you all! I would add lots of prayer to your emergency kit too (sounds like you’re a couple with a strong faith). I see you’ve been to Michigan (where we live) and and our roads would be good practice for Alaska! 😅

[@OpenRoading]

@@rmangold Always keeping prayer in and out of the emergency kit! We loved our time in Michigan this last summer. Stayed in Mackinaw City and visited friends in Petoskey! Such a beautiful state. -J

[@hondo375flint2]

Love your videos u guys seem honest and sincere so if u are r making that kind of $$ with almost 15k subscribers what would someone with almost 12 million subscribers make?

[@Michelle-wd2oy]

Well ya’ll did something right because you popped up on my feed and I’ve never seen your content before. So kudos to you both. I watched this entire video.

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much clicking, taking the time to watch, and leave a comment! 🤗 The youtube algorithm sometimes smiles on us...and sometimes looks the other way. 😂 We think we've figured somethings out but at the same time we know that views are never guaranteed so we are grateful for everyone who takes the time. -J

[@lindabloomfield4879]

Me too this is the first time I've seen your channel. Looks interesting and very honest looking forward to what's next

[@OpenRoading]

@@lindabloomfield4879 We've done a lot since this video if you want to check us out! www.youtube.com/@OpenRoading/videos

[@jonathandavis3312]

All the things you said are definitely key to having a successful KZbin channel, but in my opinion the thing you have going for you is that you guys are so likable. I look forward to your videos every week. I just got paid from my grossly overpaid tech job, so I'm spreading the wealth again❤

[@OpenRoading]

If you tell me your bosses name I will block him or her from the channel so that they never see your comments and we can keep this relationship going... 😂 Again. Thank you so much for your generosity. Blows me away to be the recipient of it. Stay generous to those around you. It speaks volumes. I may be over reading things here but also don't feel guilty for having a job that pays you well. You have an in demand set of skills, there is nothing wrong with getting paid for those skills even if to you it seems simple. -J

[@jonathandavis3312]

@@OpenRoading LOL My boss is cool. My wife (the real boss) is the one we have to worry about!😄

[@pascopirate]

Awesomeness

[@debbiedebbie9473]

That was really sweet of you. 👍🍀🍀🍀

[@OpenRoading]

The unsolicited generosity of people has astounded us! -J@@debbiedebbie9473

[@minnesotabryan4933]

Since nobody has started a Trinity Alaska fund, Well, here's a start, I hope others contribute also. Be safe out there my friends.

[@OpenRoading]

Bryan! If you keep doing this I'm going to have to send you 1099 at the end of the year! 😂 I just...I genuinely don't know how to say thank you.🥹 Thank you, (see...doesn't feel like enough) -J

[@Brockleejohnson]

💜💜💜it’s people like you🙏🏾

[@TakeTheRide]

One thing I like about you two, is you don't talk over each other, like many couples do. Your dialogue is respectful. You are also positive towards one another, there's no negative comments to each other. Very important.

[@OpenRoading]

Thank you. -J

[@truckerzwyf]

Except when Joe was working the sugar beet stacking and couldn't get a kiss goodby because of his stubbly beard. That was mean😆

[@iancurnow9060]

For Trinity's puppy food.!!

[@OpenRoading]

Thank you so so much. It's always so humbling to me when people like you go out of there way to be such a tangible support of what we're doing over here. I know it goes to Trinity food - but the $50 to Trinity food is $50 that is freed up from our budget so we can invest in other aspects of the channel. Thank you! -J

[@camrodger8638]

I’ve noticed a couple of factors that both your channel and Craig and Victorias channel offer is genuine smiles and happiness AND no ego presentation. Please keep it up. We love the channel.

[@OpenRoading]

Thank you so much. Craig and Victoria are two of the most down to earth people we know. I feel lucky that we got to know them and travel with them for a while in 2021 during a time when none of us were filming anything. -J

[@HomeFreeAlaska]

I honestly don’t know why I clicked on this video…it was on my feed & I clicked. As a KZbinr myself, I can relate to so much of what you guys said. What I loved most was your openness and willingness to laugh at yourselves & past mistakes! Because we have to do that sometimes. Everybody starts somewhere, we learn as we go. I think always striving to learn something new, always trying to be better with each video REALLY helps the channel grow. Awesome video guys, I enjoyed it!💪🏼

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much for not just taking the time to watch but to take the time to leave such an encouraging comment. We truly aren't experts so there's no way we would ever roast anyone but ourselves. And the fun part is hoping that 5 years from now we can look back at today and point out all the crazy things we are doing wrong right now and have a good laugh. 🙂 Edit: AND an early congratulations on that Silver Play Button you are about to hit!! Nicely done! -J

[@allaboutroofing2]

Let's be real. Trinity was a turning point in your YT career. Not to take away from your great content and editing, but she is exactly what was needed to add engagement and make the channel more interesting. Kudos for keeping her and accepting her into your life. It's not easy to care for a dog.

[@OpenRoading]

I love comments like these. There's truth but they can come across so funny. "Not to take away anything but ya'll weren't interesting until Trinity came around." 😂 We've said over and over that we know more people are here for Trinity than for us. But pretty much any channel out there can look at one video that "launched" their base. I will say that "we're broke" hit 10,000 views in the first few days (compared to our first 2 attempts where we struggled to get to 200-300) and every video after that was coming in between 1K-3K prior to Trinity. We got monetized before Trinity, and we've continued to grow with every video in our BT (Before Trinity) era. So I don't think we were THAT uninteresting. All that to say - yeah, Trinity was and is amazing, but one can't simply adopt a dog and expect it to be the key to KZbin success. It's quite a bit more than that. -J

[@destinysisco3142]

Interesting rebuttal.

[@OpenRoading]

Half agreement half rebuttal? 😂@@destinysisco3142

[@iancurnow9060]

@@OpenRoading Fascinating. That was the first of your videos that I watched..! I did go ahead and watched two more, just now, and you two are great. Cheers

[@OpenRoading]

@@iancurnow9060 KZbin really pushed that one out. We can see the "Reach" metric (how many times KZbin shows the thumbnail to people) and for some reason youtube showed that thumbnail to soooo many more people than they typically show our thumbnails to. Even our most recent video (which has Trinity on it) is getting showed to LESS people than normal. If you try to understand the ways of KZbin you always end up confused. LOL -J

[@dancas82]

I think the thing for me that really comes through in your videos in authenticity. The video where Joseph was struggling to fix the truck while working the beet harvest....man, I could feel his anxiety/stress/exhaustion through the whole ordeal. Adopting Trinity and all of the emotions that surround taking on a new pet that wasn't planned on...that all came through. You share your journey in such an authentic way that it makes us want to continue to watch. It's not a portrayal that your life is the best and everything is sunshine and rainbows. It's the everyday struggles of things that you thought would be easier, just like we all have. Keep it up. Your channel is great!

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much for all of that feedback. My brother messaged me after the truck one and said "Joe....people are going to relate to you hard on that one" and I was skeptical. Who wants to see a guy get frustrated with his failures? Apparently we all do 😂. Thanks for being so encouraging! -J

[@SwitchItUpLife]

Still following your journey. Mark our words... you are about to really grow on KZbin. All elements are there. One day your side money of KZbin will flip and it is not far away. Love your sharing and truth. Keep it up.

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much. That means a lot coming from people who not only have found youtube success but who have built an incredible community that goes beyond the meet-up. -J

[@LouiseLewis-f9p]

Joy & Blessings to you both. Would love a postcard when you get to Alaska!

[@OpenRoading]

I saw this last night and haven't been able to formulate a coherent response. We're stunned. Floored. Speechless. 🥹 How does one say a proper thank you to someone who has been so generous? Of course we would be happy to send you a post card...we better pick out a good one because it's most likely the most expensive post card you've ever asked for! Thank you for the exceptional value you placed on our efforts. We are so very grateful. At some point let's connect via email ( [e-mail]) and we can get your address for future connection. Again, thank you so much. And if you let us know that the decimal was in the wrong spot and it was supposed to be $4.99 - We totally understand that too. 😁 -J

[@franwitzel1604]

Probably one of the most honest couple, full time rv’ers online , keep it up

[@OpenRoading]

So so kind. Thank you. -J

[@i8bigfoot]

Thanks! For the great time I enjoy your videos I love wish i could be traveling ❤

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much for supporting the channel! We so appreciate it! -J

[@ColleenBee]

The struggle makes it real, keep sharing the tough parts of your journey because it makes you relatable and different. No two paths are the same and it's been interesting to hear yours!

[@OpenRoading]

THIS is exactly why we shared the context behind the number! "No two paths are the same" I get very frustrated when people share information like this without giving context. This third try could have not worked for us either. Keep learning, keep tweaking, keep going. Kinda my motto now. -J

[@UncleMikeH]

Why I subscribed...y'all are honest, hard working, and Trin of course. What to do better in my opinion, don't ask for the "like comment subscribe". People will do that on their own. And like I tell everyone - stay humble.

[@OpenRoading]

Thank you for the specific feedback. We certainly will think about it...there's certainly 2 camps on whether to do it or not. I think we've forgotten to do it in a couple of videos and I don't know whether or not we've seen a difference either way. As far as humility, we hope to keep that no matter the circumstance. I think, even if we ever get to the point of real youtube success, that it will be hard to forget where we came from. All we have to do is go back and look at our old content 😂. But then again, I've seen others lose perspective so I very much appreciate this direct encouragement. Thank you. -J

[@UncleMikeH]

You the real ones 💯 ❤

[@speak2therock]

First video I saw, was: we're broke! Does it help y'all if I watch all the older videos?

[@Heatherandthedogs]

I’m going to go the other way… asking people to like and subscribe is best practice for growing your channel, which is why all top KZbinrs do it.

[@annm7153]

Enjoying your videos. Excited about Alaska. I need that reminder to hit the like button and subscribe. So many times I’m watching a great video and completely forget to hit the like button. I appreciate the reminder.

[@jasoncraven9400]

Thanks!

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much Jason. I still haven't come up with the right way to respond to superthanks because they shock and amaze me every time. Thank you for your generosity to these two random strangers. 🤗 -J

[@danablakeslee8515]

I love you guys! I became a HUGE fan the day you adopted Trinity. Taking in an abandoned dog, (people!), shows what is in your hearts. I love your bunnies, too. Be safe!

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much! Trinity has been such an awesome addition to the family. We never thought we would be "dog people" but man...we love her to death. -J

[@aslobos]

Me, too. 🥰🥰 Love that they rescued Trin. 🙏👏👏🐶

[@OpenRoading]

@@aslobos As she currently lays under Kalyn's desk while she's working...forcing Kalyn to put her own feet up on the couch....I'm glad too. 🤗-J

[@Brockleejohnson]

The community in your comments is what I’m aiming for here on KZbin💪🏾💜💯🙏🏾 great motivation video!

[@OpenRoading]

Yeah. I'd say thank you but I'm not sure I did anything to create it. Honestly the people here in the comments have been the best thing for us. So few trolls and a ton of encouragement along the way. They're all the true heroes of the channel! -J

[@EveryFurtherMile]

For other references if anyone is curious: We only have 2.8k subs, but have a couple semi viral videos, so we're able to monetaize and get around $150/month from ads. We also landed a brand deal that got us some extra money as well. I think this channel could start earning a decent amount if they were to start doing brand deals. (If they aren't already)

[@OpenRoading]

Yeah, every channel is so different depending on niche, style etc. So far for brand deals we've only done some "free stuff" where we control 100% of what we do with it regarding content and the've been small things: Onnias lock (Unemployed) aPetsPanet hammock (Don't be Fooled) We're a little gun-shy on a full on sponsorship because we just want it to be a "heck yes" this is a company that we want to work with AND that really makes sense for the channel. We could have done about 100 ebike sponsorships and 50 power bank sponsorships at this point 😂 but we aren't ebilke people....and we already live off grid so we don't need a power bank so it's just not something we're comfortable pitching on the channel. Eventually we'd love to have a couple awesome sponsors but at the moment we're content to continue growing the channel without them until we find those matches made in heaven. -J

[@JJ-th1jc]

The first video my wife and I watched was the gate watching in Texas, where Trinity was trying so hard to adopt you guys. I told my wife, "If these people don't give this dog a chance to join their family, that I wasn't going to watch anymore." Well, we subscribed, and we will be watching. 🙂

[@OpenRoading]

So glad you stuck around - and so glad Trinity is part of our fam. Couldn't imagine life without her now. 🤗 -J

[@karencolasacco]

We appreciate your authenticity. It’s so nice to see real life, the work involved, the ups and downs, and that everything isn’t perfect all the time! Love watching Trinity’s story with you, she is so lucky to have found you ❤️ safe travels and cannot wait to see your Alaska dream trip!

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much. It's been an overwhelming couple of days as people have been so kind to us in the comments. Thank you for being such an encouragement to us. We're so excited about the next steps in the adventure. -J

[@tommy-guns478]

Open Roading , Wild RV life, and Less Junk More Journey. are top 3 RV KZbin channels I watch others but not religiously

[@OpenRoading]

Good company to be in! Thanks so much for taking the time to watch! -J

[@kirstenmc68]

What a beautiful open and honest video! You are so likable and nice, good luck with growing this channel!

[@OpenRoading]

Thank you so so much. -J

[@tracimoney-honey8545]

I'm still binging ... I just lovr the story every week. It's funny or sad or heartwarming ... mostly real ... yall live an interesting life and stuff happens

[@OpenRoading]

Interesting. 😂 That is one way of putting it. Lol. There’s a lot of “boring” between the videos where we sit at our computers editing but we wouldn’t trade it for the world! -J

[@sherrynorth1293]

I started watching when Trinty found you guys and I have enjoyed watching you since . You 2 are down to earth and very likable . Just keep doing what you're doing . I've got to say you are one of my favorites.

[@OpenRoading]

Never did we ever think that we'd get comments like "You are one of my favorites." 🥹 We always wanted to put out good stuff...but that is high high praise. Thank you so much. -J

[@asktodd2000]

You earned every penny of your KZbin income, and you deserve much more. Your content and editing has improved substantially since starting your channel. I’ve watched a lot of KZbin RVer channels, but your content and dynamics as a young couple are far superior than most.

[@OpenRoading]

Kalyn and I both were like "YOUNG COUPLE??!!! YAY!!" 😂 I so appreciate you taking the time to leave this encouraging comment. Thank you so much. We're hoping to eventually see the income from this be able to support us. Still got a lot of work to go to achieve that but no complaints here. After the 2 failed attempts every ad dollar feels like a miracle. -J

[@lancealldrin8499]

Regarding Alaska: make the drive no earlier than May. My wife and I drove up twice in the last four years, once in March, once in early June. During the March trip, the deciduous trees were without leaves and there were very few animals out to be seen. On the June trip, all the trees/vegetation was green and the animals were in abundance, everywhere! My wife finally said "if you see another bear and I'm asleep, don't wake me up as I've seen plenty on this trip!". Get a copy of the Milepost driving manual for great info on routes, etc.

[@OpenRoading]

I so love it when plans that you are making get confirmed by someone else! We're planning on entering Canada early May, Alaska in early June (weather permitting). -J

[@Suzette-hz7op]

I have enjoyed so much watching yours and Craig and Victoria s videos but what turned the page for me was Trinity and Bunny. They are so precious and added everything that gives me so much joy. I am 68 years old and the 4 of you are living my dream. Congrats on everything you have done and keep doing such a good job.

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much for watching! Trinity & Cody bring us so much joy each and every day! -J

[@RedHotFiat]

One of my favorite channels is Itchy Boots. One of the things I like is when she shows her drone videos of the places she has visited all over the world.

[@OpenRoading]

I'm gonna have to check her out for inspiration! Talk about a learning curve - learning to fly this thing AND use it to get epic shots...people sure make it look easy. LOL -J

[@lindaromero7780]

ItchyBoots is my favorite!

[@MattAK]

KZbin started recommending your channel to me since I'm getting ready to move into my Micro Minnie next spring. I'll have to go watch your Alaska stuff as it's my second home!

[@OpenRoading]

Nice! It's scary how youtube knows what videos to feed you! -J

[@cassiehyre4903]

First time watcher. Really like that you two are real and honest. Naturally good. Keep on going Now a subscriber

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much. I hope you find our travel content entertaining and fun. -J

[@juliebarnett9812]

People like "real," with all the good and bad things that go with it. I also appreciate not having my time wasted by needless chatter about nothing before actually getting to the subject.

[@OpenRoading]

I got a good chuckle...because I just responded to another comment on a different one of our videos where the commenter was complaining that they were 5 minutes in and we hadn't gotten to what the thumbnail was about. 😂 I guess sometimes we do the useless chatter bit. 😂 But it's a vlog channel so it's gonna happen sometimes. -J

[@juliebarnett9812]

@@OpenRoading I actually wasn't complaining about you. Your commentary wasn't "useless drivel," but most of it was informative. I enjoyed the whole video, and I'm a new subscriber. Your "Gate-guarding video with the dog, Trinity, was very interesting. I see you got a lot of people who were also brought in by that one. Good for you! Sometimes, it's just one video that hits a chord, and you're off to the races! I can see that you guys have made it over the hump, and good things are coming. Perseverance pays off. I was talking about other people, who blab and do "commercials" during half their video. I watched a new person the other day, title of the YT video was, "I drank none broth for 4 months, and this is what happened." Then, she proceeded to give a veiled commercial for the product she was using that lasted FOUR MINUTES OUT OF THE 6 MINUTE VIDEO! Wow. That really ticked me off. And I hate when people have thumbnails that draw you in, then they NEVER get to that subject! That's like a scam artist, and it's disrespectful of a person's time and their willingness to listen to your video. Keep up the good work, and Godspeed on your Alaska trip. I look forward to seeing more of your video creations.

[@OpenRoading]

@@juliebarnett9812 Nope! The other comment wasn't you. 😁 I just found the timing really funny almost replying to 2 comments back to back - one saying that we weren't getting to the point fast enough followed up by your wonderful comment (different videos). 🙂 -J

[@AA-cp8ry]

You have what it takes to be successful. Keep going with it. Wish you well.

[@OpenRoading]

Thank you so much. We will continue to do our very best and keep learning every day. -J

[@terrizseleczky9794]

Something for Alaska trip and hopefully a treat for Cody and Trinity. Maybe some baked sweet potatoes for each!💜💜

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so very much for your generosity. We so appreciate your support of the channel. 🤗🤗 -J

[@PopsIntrepidPedaler]

My wife and I will be starting our YT and RV experience full time next year when I retire; so late bloomers yes, but we're optimistic. I'm bringing Guitar and music making along with so, much to juggle. Great Video by the way, and thanks for sticking it out.

[@OpenRoading]

I think there is so much potential for using some of your own music in videos if you decide to do that! Let us know when you launch so we can watch a long. -J

[@yorkchu3010]

Been watching you in the past 2 months. Love the way you”being real” with the good, the bad and the ugly”. Keep up the good work 👍

[@OpenRoading]

Thank you so much! Kalyn is the Good. Trinity is the bad (occasionally) and me…well…we know what’s left. 😂 -J

[@ElementaryBrewingCo]

Great job!!! Glad you guys didn’t give up! Your channel is awesome!

[@OpenRoading]

Thank you so much. Awesome is a high bar! 🥹 (no pun intended with your youtube handle and all....but it works 😁) -J

[@wolverinealaska6937]

Thanks! Again excellent video. Learning a lot when I start living on the road. Need not worry I am not going to be a KZbin star---I won't steal your views. LOL. I think I will keep my day job but will just did it one the road. But thanks again

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much for watching and supporting the channel! And zero worries - if you start your own youtube channel we'd be there to watch and cheer you on. Absolutely no feelings of jealousy here - everyone has a unique perspective to offer. 100% awesome that you have a day job that you can do on the road! There is a lot of positives to being able to clock in and clock out while still sitting in your home on wheels. -J

[@ingridbond3432]

Found you thru Gate-Guarding - suggested video - was interested in hearing what that kind of work was about. Then, because of Trinity had to watch all Trinity update vids. Because you were so kind to her and kept her, and because you were real about the rv life ups and downs but with a smile on your faces, I subbed :) Have thought (for years now) about working KZbin (tech/equipment overwhelm initially stopped me) and so really appreciate hearing about your experience. You both do such a good job and are an inspiration -- how you came back better and stronger from your challenges. God Bless you and yours, I hope you stay around a good long time because now I'm hooked.

[@OpenRoading]

Comments like these make my day. I COMPLETELY understand people watching a video or two and then never coming back because the channel content wasn't exactly the same or they changed directions a bit. That's completely fair. So when someone says "Hey - I came for this but stuck around" it just gives me all the warm fuzzies that we must be doing something right. Thank you for being so encouraging! -J

[@KAW5]

For Trinity! ❤

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much! She'll spend it wisely. (most likely on snacks 😂) -J

[@edellenburg78]

Hey there! I recently stumbled upon your channel, and I've got to say, I'm thoroughly captivated by your content. The first video I watched was 'We’re Not Going to Make It,' and from that moment on, I was hooked. Your daily vlog style is right up my alley, and learning about gate guarding has been a fascinating journey. And Trinity? She's unforgettable! Since discovering your channel, I've already binged about 8 of your videos, and I must commend you on the fantastic work. The content is engaging, and you guys exude excitement and charisma that keeps me coming back for more. Keep up the awesome work!

[@OpenRoading]

Thank you so much. 😊 Comments like this are more encouraging than you realize. I'm honestly a little overwhelmed by the love tonight. -J

[@ireneluciow455]

Wow you guys are doing it right. Having fun while traveling. We had full-timed for 20 years then bought a house when we reached 75 yrs old. Still traveling for another 10 + years until we were 81 yrs old. Retired when we were 50. We saw almost all of North America plus central America. We have a 32' motorhome towed a jeep. Have come to a complete halt due to covid. But what a wonderful life!!! Wrote a book from my diaries called From north to south , east to west. Just for ourselves and our family.

[@AlaskanFreedom]

Starting our off-grid cabin next month and a new KZbin channel to go with it. Thank you for the great info and good luck with getting up here in Alaska. Once you get here you'll never want to leave.

[@OpenRoading]

If you've seen how well we handle cold weather... you will know that we will want to leave. 😂😂😂 -J

[@_WishYouWereHere]

You guys have encouraged us to not give up. We've burnt out a few times ourselves, so we can relate. Thanks for the encouragement! You're doing a great job! Wishing you the best!

[@OpenRoading]

It is sooo easy to burn out. Even after seeing this lower level of success we still sometimes feel like we’re on a hamster wheel. It’s very important to find that elusive work/Life balance! -J

[@wildrvlife]

What an awesome journey!! Also, glad to have been a part of it. Loved seeing the throwbacks to 2022…despite it being the worst time ever to travel through California (financially), we had such a great time spending most of it with you guys!!

[@OpenRoading]

That is 100% accurate. Spending time with ya'll was so worth it! Thanks so much for being amazing friends! -J

[@OutdoorsybyNature]

I started my YT channel talking about something I'm not passionate about so I really appreciate you highlighting how many stops and starts you had. I have a journalism/storytelling/interviewing background and I've always wanted a travel/camping channel but COVID derailed that. This video gives me hope to start again when I can get back to camping and traveling part-time. Thank you!

[@OpenRoading]

Story telling is absolutely key. If you can weave a good story you can go far on YT I believe. I'm still honing my skill at that. I'm lucky to have Kalyn who will flat out tell me "This section is boring me." 😂 -J

[@OutdoorsybyNature]

@@OpenRoading It's a gift to have a partner who can help you hone that skill with such precision. 😂

[@pollystemen7219]

Yup,abandoned dog popped up in my feed. I was so glad to see you kept her. ❤Thanks for the behind the scene. I don’t like to be nosy,but it sure is interesting how every thing works. And it makes me happy to see hard working people do well in life👍🏻🐶🐰

[@OpenRoading]

It's not nosey when someone puts it out there for the world to see! 😁 Now if you start asking us deep and probing questions that's another story. 🙂 lol -J

[@rmlrl1971]

I stumbled onto your channel about a month ago. I love that you took on Trinity, that Joe goes and works odd jobs, that Kayln actually talks about her business. That the two of you are showing the upside and the downside. No matter how long this part of your life last, just enjoy it.

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much! That is exactly how we feel. Our backs were against the wall last September (financially) and to have come so far in just 5 months feels unreal to us. We're going to keep at this season of hustle and our hope is to not ever be back in the position we were last fall. -J

[@Eph1-4]

Always fun to catch up with you all! Thank you for being upbeat, using clean language, and creating content that isn’t trying to win a soap opera award. God bless you!

[@OpenRoading]

"Isn't trying to win a soap opera award" I'm gonna try to convince Kalyn to stick that in our bio! 😁 -J

[@trinabarrow]

Hi from Hobart, Tasmania. We are newly retired caravanners and I love seeing how you do it in your country, very different to ours. Looking forward to seeing Alaska with you, we cruised from Tokyo to Vancouver last year so saw such a tiny part of it. Congratulations on a great channel, just subscribed yesterday.

[@OpenRoading]

TASMANIA!!!! Wow! One thing I love about living in this area is making connections with people all over the world. Thank you SO much for taking the time to comment. Kalyn and I would love to do international travel someday! I don't know that Boquillas Mexico really counts all that much. 😂 -J

[@lindalowry150]

I just found your channel and you guys are doing awesome! I heard about you from Wild RV Life channel. I'm glad you tried for the third time and congratulations on your success!

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks for stopping by! Craig and Victoria are awesome. -J

[@trishmiller3086]

Keep pushing forward! You two are naturals.

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks for the encouragement! -J

[@tamzinmenadue4887]

I like the way you two reply to everyone

[@OpenRoading]

We'd be dumping our content into an empty void if it wasn't for ya'll's amazing support and encouragement. People taking time to watch and leave a comment means so much to us, replying is the least I can do to say thank you! If we start getting close to 500 comments on a video I'm sure I won't be able to respond to everyone all the time, BUT I'll don't want to ever get to the place where I only respond to a few. I want to respond to as many as I can, even if it takes me time to do so. -J

[@Alexrogan0311]

I’m very glad that you took another stab at KZbin. Your channel is great. The first video I watched was when you found Trinity, thank you for keeping that beautiful dog. Hopefully we will run into you one day and my two dogs will get to say hi.

[@OpenRoading]

Thank you so much for that. And if you do see us please say hi! -J

[@garrycollie2135]

Hey guys, this is from Marilyn .... I just want to encourage you to continue in the style you've been employing. I'm not sure I could say what changed for me, but I LOVE the videos that started with gate guarding. I really look forward to your vids now. You are real, honest, relatable, and super cute. I'm a big fan! Excited for you to go to Alaska! Congrats in advance! ❤💕

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much Marilyn! We so appreciate feedback. And I'll take being called "super cute" to the bank every day of the week! -J

[@evapisztora1241]

Hi I just subscribed to your channel because of the way you are! No matter how chaotic or boring you might be, please please stay authentic! That is what is so great and attractive about you ❤

[@OpenRoading]

I promise you, that I hope we change over time. I hope we grow. I hope we continue to mature. I hope that our channel grows. But I always want to be authentic. -J

[@lynnpugsley7109]

Absolutely loved everything about this. Your honesty is so real, and I really think you have a really good shot at making this going far. I am really looking forward to going on all your adventure with you :)

[@OpenRoading]

We really hope so! Thank you so much for being so encouraging. -J

[@JayandSarah]

YT is a ton of work. We are doing this now ourselves and can relate to the amount of work that is put in. Hour and hours on each video and at first, nothing in return. Our channel will be big one day, I know it will. For now we put in the hard work as equity in the brand.

[@OpenRoading]

I LOVE that attitude! -J

[@abgodden]

So happy to subscribe to this channel. Looking forward to your 100,000 subscriber, KZbin Award. I appreciate your honesty, and I’ve always wondered how KZbin pays the content creators. Most KZbinrs are not willing to share this information. This is just one reason why I will remain a subscriber well beyond the 100,000000 subscriber mark.

[@OpenRoading]

You have big goals for us! 😂 Of course I want a silver plaque but I'm thinking it's a pretty fair way off. So we didn't say this in the video (we try not to go too deep into the weeds) but we get paid by those skippable ads that pop up during the video. KZbin takes around half of the money and the creator gets the rest (this of course after you meet their monetization requirements.) You can also do sponsored content where you do your own ad in the middle for a company. You negotiate those rates on your own with whatever company you are working with (we haven't done any of those as of yet.) -J

[@abgodden]

@@OpenRoading you will get there. I saw a channel get 30,000 subscribers in less than 1 month by doing complaint videos. “Yes I’m ashamed, but I did watch them”. Maybe some people like that, but I think there is more people that like the positive message you send and I for one, find it refreshing. I have more questions, but I’ll save them for a later video. I don’t want to seem like a stalker.

[@OpenRoading]

@@abgodden Hey! I pinned a comment asking for questions that we can answer IN a future Q&A episode!! Drop all your Q's right in there!! -J

[@dustygallivan8365]

Thanks for the videos! We actually live in Odessa. Next time you are in town, we'd love to buy your lunch!

[@OpenRoading]

That is so very kind. Thank you for your crazy generous encouragement here with the superthanks. I don't know if we are going to be back in town BUT - shoot me and email at [e-mail] and if it looks like we are going that way I will see if we can connect. -J

[@2156cynthia]

I came on the gate guarding video and your dog:) I think you are a nice couple and enjoy watching you.

[@OpenRoading]

Thank you so much. I love it when people let us know what their first video was. Trinity built herself a fan club FAST! 🐕‍🦺

[@cchawk6280]

Your dedication is admirable. That alone should lead you to more success. I’m a first time watcher.

[@OpenRoading]

Thank you. I'm impressed with those who have been doing this for longer (without giving up) and not seen their goals met yet. I think the key for us was realizing that we had to stop doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. Now we are much more willing to tweak and change. -J

[@GregPrince-io1cb]

Psssstttt.... 1 bite at a time kids... Upload, repeat, breathe and carry on... You got this, don't give up... We really do enjoy the content!

[@OpenRoading]

We have never felt more energized for creating content. I'll admit...being "stuck" in one place has had it's challenges for creativity of content creation 😂 but we should be moving on soon. -J

[@GregPrince-io1cb]

@@OpenRoading Being stuck is always an opportunity to explore!! Look into the local storytellers and share the stories!!

[@OpenRoading]

@@GregPrince-io1cb Have we told you about this road........ 😂 If it weren't for the gate guarding schedule we probably would get out more - but since I sleep to between 2 or 3 pm it only gives us 4ish hours before one of us has to be on shift - so we really don't have time to get out somewhere for more than our errands. -J

[@jenniferweyers6077]

Found your channel recently. You two are great! Thanks!

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much for taking the time to be so encouraging. Honestly I'm very overwhelmed by peoples kindness tonight. -J

[@Ray96744]

Love you guys!

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much! It means so much to us when people watch right when the video comes out. 🤗 -J

[@Ray96744]

@@OpenRoading I also loved the gate guards job very interesting

[@peggymarsden8803]

We have driven 3 times to alaska, pulling a camper. You might need an extra 5K. Just a warning! But it's so worth it! We live here now. In wasilla.

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks for the heads up. Our $15K is specifically for Fuel, Excursions, and buffer. We will still be spending our normal $3-4K a month out of our normal budget for groceries, random expenses and everything else. -J

[@ericmeeker3010]

You are both wonderful people an love the channel..... just need more content....an honestly the dog sold me !!! Wish all the best

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much for your kindness! I'm pretty sure you're stuck with just one new video per week. 😂 I know some other creators are able to put out more than that but I think I would lose my sanity if I tried. -J

[@burlingtonbill4687]

A few years back during covid I bought a small Cannon movie camera and shot a video of me playing a cover song on my guitar. I had been playing open Mics with friends but for a while that was off the table, so I started a you tube channel. Now I have one hundred and forty-nine videos on my channel. It has been a lot of fun and now my younger brother has a channel and has had even more success. My channel is Burlington Bill and my brother's is Robin Braun. I've been following Open Road's trip to Alaska because we have RV'd there three times now. Travel safe. Burlington Bill busking on the road and here on You-Tube.

[@lindapeterson7109]

Thank you for this! I have been stalling at starting my KZbin channel that so many people have been asking me to do. You guys are doing a great job. A real inspiration.

[@OpenRoading]

I understand the stall. Been there! If your journey is like ours (and not everyone's story is the same for sure) you'll know when the right time is. In September Kalyn and I both knew it was time to do our final shot and let the chips fall where they may. Keep working on ideas and you'll know when to start. -J

[@brettelizabethspore]

Thanks for sharing the struggles and successes. I have a small KZbin channel that I started 2020. K can totally relate to almost everything you have said. Bottom line for me is that I can’t and don’t want it to be a full time job, and so it remains a hobby for my extended family and friends to enjoy. I love how you have learned along the way and didn’t give up. Alaska bound!!!

[@OpenRoading]

"Bottom line for me is that I can’t and don’t want it to be a full time job, and so it remains a hobby for my extended family and friends to enjoy." The fact that you see this is fantastic. If you have major growth expectations with hobby workload you're in for a world of discouragement. But if you have hobby expectations with hobby workload then if growth ever does happen it's a happy bonus. -J

[@brettelizabethspore]

@@OpenRoading Amen!

[@lisacrummett1279]

Been waiting. Exciting to see you guys again

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much for making us part of your Friday night 🤗 -J

[@gordonmarchant7348]

I fall into the joined when you started guard gating. Thank you for the infotainment. One suggestion is to regularly include your dog and rabbit, it’s very nice seeing them and a big thumbs up on rescuing the dog… love it. Happy trails and god speed to Alaska.

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much! -J

[@edellenburg78]

Hey, just a friendly heads-up! It's crucial to ensure you have your pilot license for operating drones if you're planning to showcase them on KZbin. Without the necessary paperwork, you risk getting reported. If your drone footage contributes to your business promotion, having a Part 107 Remote Pilot license is a must before filming. It not only ensures compliance but also enhances the professionalism and credibility of your content. Stay safe and legal in the skies!

[@OpenRoading]

Yep! Getting it. Not super concerned for the 3 or 4 clips in the meantime though. It takes a special kind of person to report someone for flying a drone within the proper airspace over the desert. The research I have done indicates that the FAA has really only gone after people if they are involved in a crash. But that said....getting it. -J

[@edellenburg78]

@@OpenRoading You would be surprised that some people will get jealous of your success and find a reason to try to hurt your success. I watch a lot of KZbin and have seen this a few times already. I think at most you will get a phone call from the FAA, and they will talk with you and tell you to stop, tell you to get it. If you want to delete this comment or me to delete it just let me know. I'm not trying to cause in issue. Just trying to help new youtubers

[@OpenRoading]

@@edellenburg78 No, no problem at all. I'm in the process of getting the 107 and like I said...just keeping things pretty low key on it right now. Still have a lot of learning to do. It sucks that jealous people exist but IMO if someone is the type of person who's going to do that sort of thing....that could be part of the reason they're not seeing success. 😂 Comments like yours I really appreciate. You're looking out for us and giving us good information. I really do appreciate it. No need to delete anything. I'm not hiding behind anything and if people want to come after me and waste the FAAs time on a guy who is making $7 an hour on a youtube channel that has 2 drone shots in it.... then more power to them I suppose. lol We'll be fully compliant soon. -J

[@lynettejwhite]

Don't forget permits for drones in national parks. I've seen other USA youtubers get massive fines over that too!@@OpenRoading

[@OpenRoading]

No flying drones in NP for us.@@lynettejwhite -J

[@aklohis8683]

You both are absolutely adorable, your content was spot on, filming was great, no boring moments...so I subscribed! Looking forward to your Alaska journey!!

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much for all of that kind encouragement. Adorable may have to go in the bio at some point. 😁 -J

[@dianeschmiane]

PREDICTION = This season, you will NOT flame out... 💪💪💪

[@OpenRoading]

So funny story. I believe you are 100% correct. But.....No video this next week. 😂 The project we are working on FOR the video is taking incredibly long and we are just crunching way too hard to try to get it done in time while we have about 3 other things happening at the same time. I promise you! It's not a flame out!!! BUT WHY DID IT HAVE TO HAPPEN AFTER VIDEO 18?!?!?!?!? 😂😂😂😂😂😂 -J

[@OpenRoading]

OK!!! I lied!!! We have a video going live to day! We worked our butts off to get it out in time but it's all scheduled and ready to go tonight at 7pm Central! -J

[@dianeschmiane]

@@OpenRoading High fives, you got this!!!

[@OpenRoading]

@@dianeschmiane 🙌🏻

[@melodeeplath8002]

Open and Honest about the ups /downs of utube life - And the money transparency! I believe I'll subscribe!!

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much! 🤗 -J

[@davidspain2416]

Keep at it you will be successful , Alaska will pay off for you just make sure you show lots of the natural beauty and wild life. ice Field parkway was wonderful!!

[@OpenRoading]

Appreciate that! Man - there's so much beauty up here! -J

[@agelessrving]

That was a very interesting video. My wife and I have been full-time for 2+ years. I work full-time in the CyberSecurity field. I use Starlink and a Peplink cellular modem for my work connection. Thank you for your videos. We are part of your Channel Insider team.

[@OpenRoading]

Awesome! Thanks so much for valuing the channel! WIth this video specifically we really wanted to give not just the numbers but the context behind it all. We may do another one in the future I'm not sure. But so many "I earned X on KZbin" don't have the context of the work and failures that went into it. (Or...conversely maybe they all did it right the first time. 😂 ) -J

[@Dingocreek]

Nice to stumble upon your channel. Keep going without overextending yourself, and you will remain enjoying making content whilst your channel grows.

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much! -J

[@elizabethhamilton1166]

Excellent video: well organized and packed with useful info. And on top of it, you seem like really nice, kind people. I loved seeing Trini with you. 😊

[@OpenRoading]

Thank you so much for taking the time to drop such an encouraging comment. 🤗 -J

[@mariamoreira9829]

I'm a new subscriber and I'm so glad I found this couple. They are super fun to watch .Congratulations to you both 🎉

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much for coming along on the ride! -J

[@followthebradleysfun]

Just subscribed...we're on the same journey...with our niche very similar but a little different. We're monetized, but much smaller...with a primary focus being on Disney...but certainly other venues and family adventures as well. Glad I found you. Thanks!

[@OpenRoading]

So fun Disney story. Back, oh I don’t know, 8 years ago we were at Disney and I spent the whole time complaining about all the rich people with their fast passes skipping the lines. Got home and a friend informed me that the fast passes were free and you just had to schedule them ahead of time online. All that to say…if we ever return we will need your expert help. 😂-J

[@followthebradleysfun]

@@OpenRoading they're not free now... 😞 really enjoying your content and editing skills. Bless you all. And if you do make it to Florida, I'm happy to help you all out any way we can

[@OpenRoading]

@@followthebradleysfun NOoooo!!! Well I guess that means next time I go to Disney my bellyaching and complaining will be based in truth. 😂 We should be back in Florida next winter and any time I can get Kalyn to Disney she's happy so I may look you up! -J

[@cher9653]

I love your content, especially about the bunny and the dog. So glad you adopted Trinity. Many blessings as you further develop your channel.

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much for dropping into the comments. We can't imagine life without Trinity and we are so glad she and Cody get along. -J

[@TawnyDiaries]

Thanks for sharing your YT journey! Love hearing the rawness

[@OpenRoading]

You're welcome! We just wanted to be open with everyone especially since we have been working toward a specific financial goal! -J

[@ericpierce4041]

I did catch the gate gaurd because i wanted to see how people make it financially full time on the road ... and now this one because no one is honest about how they really do it failures included ,the gear used and the lessons learned on the way , my interest comes from my grandsons being interested in gameing and making/ watching ,you tube videos ,there is a lot of skills needed to be effective . plus i notice a lot of minor little problems can be solved by learning from somebody elses mistake on a video before you make it youself , so hats off to you and good luck 👍

[@OpenRoading]

If you can learn from others mistakes you will have a leg up! And kudos to you for taking interest in your grandsons interests! -J

[@Bob_Mahan]

We are a family of five who have been full time for eleven years. Thanks for the update.

[@OpenRoading]

Wow!! 11 years!! -J

[@moxieoffroadtv]

THANK YOU! I needed this so bad. Mine and my wifes little channel is struggling and I was just about ready to throw in the towel. This video popped up as recommended and has given me new hope. Gonna start using your tips immediately!

[@OpenRoading]

Glad it was encouraging. I think the hardest thing with youtube is the lack of guaranteed success. I think more than 50% of the channels got their break because of their hard work and always looking to better themselves - but boy can it be discouraging when you see the person get the one hit wonder and have a million subs. 😂 I will say though - the channels that stand the test of time seem to be the ones who put in the long term work. The one hit wonders die off if they don't have work/talent to back it up over time. -J

[@robsaupe]

I'm here because of trinitys rescue. Still here because of Trinity. 😉 Looking forward to more because of the info and watching you all grow. Y'all were pretty cheesy before. Seeing how much more relaxed and real you are has me looking forward to "joining" in on your Alaska adventure. Keep on trucking!

[@OpenRoading]

"Y'all were pretty cheesy before." I feel like that's being kind.... 😂 We're so glad you're here for Trinity and her two sidekicks. We'll take it. We know her fan club is bigger than ours but if we can score a best supporting character nomination we'll be good. 😊 -J

[@hardlineadventures1275]

Now 5001 views I love your new attempt, love the transparency. Yes, I am here from the gate guarding video where you found Trinity, I am now a subscriber. Keep up the great work!

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much!! -J

[@ImaSychopath]

I just subscribed to your channel and wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed your work! This video was informative for those looking to create their own channel, maybe even me. Happy travels and keep up the GREAT work.

[@OpenRoading]

Awesome. I'm glad you found it useful! -J

[@SonarTravels]

Have to admit, I am very happy for both of you and congrats on the Alaska update and the KZbin monetization numbers. Y’all work hard and that effort shows and am really glad it is starting to pay off for you. Keep up the great content and I look forward to your next videos.

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much! We have to keep pinching ourselves because even though we've put in a ton of work over the past 3 months...it still doesn't feel real that when we look at where we were just last September. -J

[@charlie88]

I’m so glad y’all stuck with it! Love your channel!

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much! We are really finding a groove this time around. 🙂 -J

[@CHICOandtheVAN]

Congrats! I've noticed that when I did no editing or adding music compared to full on editing , adding music, and making thumbnails that there was no difference in views. But good on you guys!

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much! So I don't think music and editing affects view count at all - but it has the potential to affect view duration. The biggest thing (that we have control over as opposed to the good old algorithm) that affects views is the Thumbnail. That is the first thing that someone who has never seen our channel before ever sees about us. And if they don't click it....no view. That's why Kalyn spends so much time working on ours and studying successful channels to see what works. I can put hours and hours and make the perfect video...but people have to click the thumbnail. -J

[@photosoftaiwan]

Thanks for that video, it’s gives me the strength to carry on. It feels like monetisation is never going to happen 😢

[@OpenRoading]

I felt this. I know exactly how you feel and when I hit those blocks... i quit. Twice. Good for you for keep plugging away! -J

[@annwilliams1082]

It's Friday! New video. New travel plans. Lots of laughs. Exciting. 🤣

[@OpenRoading]

This one is the closest we have come to not publishing…we didn’t finish shooting it until WEDNESDAY! 😬😬😬 but after a lot of hard work we are about to start it uploading. 😀 -J

[@sharlamccall]

Not a You Tube Creator here. Enjoyed watching to try to understand what goes on behind the scenes.

[@OpenRoading]

Love hearing this! We wanted this to be informative for the curious more than a “KZbin how to” -J

[@Tomm9y]

I mainly watch sailing channels, but this video popped up as recommended. Clearly you have put a lot of resources into working out what to do, and you have a positive, kind, vibe, respectful of each other. Moreover, working hard at delivering on your individual responsibilities makes you great team members and is vital in making things happen steadily, learning and growing. I'm sure you will keep growing you skills and knowledge, while you make opportunities come your way.

[@OpenRoading]

Thanks so much! Maybe I can pop a couple of sails on the RV to keep you coming back for more. 😄 -J

[@BeckyFisher-q9g]

So excited for you guys! I remember when you made the decision to go full-time and you were still in your house in FL with no RV - you're doing great!

[@OpenRoading]

One of the OG followers! There's literally like 5 of you. 😂 -J

[@saras4181]

Personally I subscribed because of Trinity, can't not watch a sweet pup. You guys are good people, Trinity found a great home. Glad things are picking up! Safe travels!

[@OpenRoading]

Trinity has her own fan club on here! And we're totally cool being her supporting cast for ya'll. -J