We need to talk about sponsorships -- SO much MISinformation

[@JANGBRiCKS]

Ads are disabled. This was recorded in one take so it's not slick & polished, but I wanted to just say my piece. Do me a favor & give somebody ELSE's comment a thumbs up if you found some value in the video.

[@greivous_big_nuts4601]

I appreciate your honesty in just absolutely everything, thanks Jang, and i hope this all hasn't been too much of a big stressful thing

[@MartenFerret]

Many commenters have no intention of buying anything they see; they say negative things because negativity sells (or, in their case, may get their comments some likes). It's just text on a screen, Jang; I'd just ignore it (though I understand why you don't).

[@MaraMash]

Many commenters also have absolutely NO idea what they're talking about. Their impotent rage outweighs their tiny brainpower. Good on Jang for literally looking up the law about it to put them in their place.

[@tommottom2571]

Dear jang, the fact you should explain this is sad, i just enjoy your vids to know what i wish to get. Or see someones other opinion on a set i like. If you earn money, sets or free KFC for this is not something that bothers me. As far as i see it your just a man making honest reviews and thats all i care aboud.

[@BirbarianHomeGuard]

Most people do not appreciate the difference between misinformation and disinformation. Thank you for emphasizing this in the title.

[@StrykeSZN]

Nope it seems almost nobody does and it’s disturbing.

[@Mut4ntG4m3r]

yes, there is no malicious intent here, just ppl making wrong coclusions wthout reseauch and sharing such as "facts"

[@RickBerman-iv2il]

Well, only on a philosophical level. If someone spreads nonsense - then does it matter if that’s because they’re ignorant or doing it deliberately? Isn’t someone deliberately spreading misinformation because of their ignorance of consequences anyway? Claiming someone is deliberately spreading false information ignores many people genuinely believe they’re actually spreading a more important message. Ultimately, everything is ‘misinformation’ or ‘disinformation’ to anyone with a different viewpoint. So, it’s either factual or not - if it’s not factual then misinformation/disinformation, just semantics.

[@procraftinatorz4116]

@@RickBerman-iv2il”privy! My henceforth knowledge of thou’s lyrics doth make me wish to engage in banter!” Ahh reply

[@JustMe_Inq]

@@RickBerman-iv2il You failed to appreciate the core of the concepts. Misinformation is done without malicious intent, Disinformation is done to consciously deceive. It's the intention that matters not your perspective on it

[@iure_divino]

we love an accountable and conscientious review youtuber

[@JLikesStarWars]

He’s the best one

[@aeroallergen]

@@JLikesStarWars Yeah. There are a lot of big Lego reviewers on KZbin, but JANG is probably the most rational, most honest of them

[@adriansue8955]

Even as a Lego Purist I like that Jang takes time to review other quality brands its good for Lego to have visible competition so prices don't skyrocket so much

[@empatheticrambo4890]

Could not agree more

[@PhoenixClank]

Thanks for letting me recalibrate my worldview by making me realize there's a difference between Lego purists and Lego fanbois.

[@ikemotosystems1434]

Lego has been needing some competition for a decade or two now. It's the only way they'll be forced to focus on reducing costs and improving price.

[@worldsheaviestjamband93]

Jang has far and away the highest level of integrity I’ve seen from any KZbinr. The absolute highest and it’s not even close.

[@Biglick_bricks]

You are not garbage JANG! Those who leave your channel are nothing compared to the ones who enjoy your work! Thanks for what you do brother ❤

[@Ryoko1701]

“Don’t give up your right to think critically” Now that’s damn right.

[@Hank_Mardookie]

Yep! And also being open to new information even if we were wrong. We can always learn to grow and learn in healthy ways.

[@OutpostMJ]

Jang = integrity. EARNED integrity. ESTABLISHED integrity. The AFOL community is now open to other brick building brands (with original designs/licenced themes). The JangBricks community is open to Jang's "sponsored" reviews (free items sent to him -- NO $) -- a thing many other KZbinrs have been doing for years and Jang is now open to doing. Jang please ignore the ignorance and the manufactured drama and online contentiousness.

[@marcussmith9807]

💯👆

[@andrewepp6763]

Yep, Jang is the only opinion I actually want to hear. No offence to other creators but Jang is special!

[@Caddava]

This, a thousand times this : Jang = integrity. EARNED integrity. ESTABLISHED integrity.

[@gregobrix]

Jang, I'm 61 and I believe I can tell a person's character quite well. You, sir, are an honest, upstanding and moral man. Thank you for this video proving my point.

[@lulushishi]

Really glad you are bring attention to this. Its such a massive issue not just with toy reviews but reviews for all kinds of products, from smartphones, to laptops, to appliances, to cars. Really appreciate how truthful and transparent you are with everything you do ❤

[@TheCobraKing93]

Haters and KZbin please leave this guy alone. He has done nothing wrong. He has done everything right at least in my opinion. Jang I am talking directly to you now, if you see that, I just wanna say thank you, my father passed on October the 30th 2014, I picked someone online who could be there even somewhat, and that was you. I am sorry if this seems repetitive but you have helped me more than you could ever imagine or know. So thank you.

[@OutpostMJ]

@TheCobraKing93 I'm glad to hear you've kept going and a decade after your loss you are still here. "I found that just surviving was a noble fight" (Billy Joel in Angry Young Man). 💙☮️🕯️ (love peace light)

[@gregobrix]

Your post is very kind.

[@TheCobraKing93]

@ thank you for your kind words, god bless you

[@joshuamueller3206]

@@TheCobraKing93 His voice is very calming, sometimes I use his reviews to relieve anxiety.

[@TheCobraKing93]

@@joshuamueller3206 ah that is what it is

[@warrennewman5325]

Been watching you for 5 years everything you build and review doing fantastic job jang

[@Reptani]

Jang, I've been watching your videos since the 4th/5th grade. I'm a 4th year in university now, and I have to say, your handling of this situation, your insight, and your integrity/character again remind me of why you're still my favorite KZbinr. You really highlighted so many things that are just maddening about the Internet in general.

[@andrewepp6763]

I’m a Lego purist, but I love the reviews on the off brand things, Lego needs to understand that people DO have other options. And I sincerely hope they are paying attention. Keep up the good work Jang!

[@Steven-iv9zl]

The lack of critical thinking and people not doing their own research/fact checking on the Internet is terrifying to me. Thank you for speaking about it. Not enough people (viewers, commenters and content creators) do because engagement and clicks are everything.

[@SO-ym3zs]

"There's a sucker born every minute." The Internet and social media have created a perfect storm for duping the gullible and spreading lies and misinformation with astonishing speed and effectiveness. From malicious trolls to hucksters to politicians to foreign enemies of the state--they all use this to their advantage.

[@thereddye]

I have been watching your reviews for 8 years which have always well constructed and offer really interesting insight into the design of model kits and the market theory behind them. I will always maintain that you have one of the most grounded and honest personalities that makes watching any of your videos regardless of the topic really enjoyable 😄

[@gregobrix]

Well said!

[@adriansue8955]

Conflicts of Interest while I can't say for certain this applies to Lego and LAN I have seen in sponsored reviews of Nerf Blasters for example, that while there may not be direct stipulation that a reviewer say certain positive things; if they Don't, then they tend to not receive future sponsorship offers. And most of these people like getting free stuff, so they're a motivation to add a tilt to the review.

[@nathonso_edits]

Agreed, imo LAN members have a huge incentive to be mostly positive about the product due to them receiving huge amounts of expensive Lego for free, from which they make monetised reviews. The most negative thing I've seen a LAN member say is that the price is too high and to wait for a sale. Yes there is no stipulation by LAN to say anything positive, but if a reviewer were to say something negative about the price in every single review, there's a good chance that they would get dropped by LAN. To me there is a big difference between this and Jang being sent one or two sets a year.

[@SO-ym3zs]

That's the problem with sponsored reviews: the existence of the sponsorship at the least raises the spectre of a conflict of interest or wrongdoing, at worst actually leads to it. Neither are desirable.

[@dgray3771]

That's my biggest concern with sponsored reviews when you see that a reviewer only does sponsored reviews. The reviews are almost exclusively positive. It's worse for other brands than lego though. Lego is mostly about the build, the bricks are not defective, "aside from the notorious scratches on windows". It's far worse for GI Joe classified and Transformers. Where the product is sometimes just bad, in design or production. And the reviewer keeps saying how awesome it is. When it's not. Lego suffers less from that issue, aside from the "unique figure with like SW sets" or the rare parts there is nothing about the product that is bad or good. It is bricks. It is all about the design. You know what is even worse in reviews? That the reviewer just skips stuff for clicks. To be "first" and to not care that much about the product. I just grabbed a figure of the shelf that i remembered has a thing going that hardly any reviewer touched up on. Transformers combiner wars Hotspot. It is a figure almost 9 years old now. At the time a lot of reviews came out, how crap the legs are, how bad the knees were "all floppy", granted the instructions were bad and not that clear about it. But you could push a hinge piece in, and it is a tight push but it would lock the pieces together and then the knees are perfectly fine. I really got frustrated about this and put several comments in the comment section touching up on it. So people would be aware of this, and not skip on the figure thinking it is bad due to a QC issue. But that it functions as should. Similar stuff with other figures in that community. A similar thing would be if people do not show 360 of lets say the lego fire station that came this last year. Seeing that the fire engine barely fits in the garage. Or that the numbers of the doors and the pad correspond with the other vehicles of this last series of sets. You see reviewing in my eyes also includes investigation of the product and knowing what you talk about. Instead of being first, getting clicks and sucking up to the company that sends you free stuff to get more free stuff.

[@dgray3771]

@@nathonso_edits Jang even took non lego products and put it side by side to review price on products in comparison. Not seen that either. I also detest the "extreme wealthy" reviewers. That talk about "how you can army build" As if that is the main take a set should have? I do not know many kids actually none that own 20 battle packs... Call me crazy? And yes there are adults that own multiple of a set but that isn't the main take you should have on a set. Another thing being the mini fig insanity. Especially with the Venator and the micro fighter. How some reviewers went bananas. Just because the figure was sold in a cheap set. Yeah you buy lego for ...lego. Not for minifigs. Collect figures? You can buy black series figures. Cost you 30 bucks a fig. But the thing is they never got the Venator because it is lego. But because there is a fig with it that had an astronomical market value.

[@EvanMoon]

TheJANG, YOU ROCK! Not being a fanboy of a certain product is why your reviews are so good. You make us look outside of a certain product world and venture into great fields towards other products. Thank you.

[@Caddava]

Jang I love how you don't shy away from educating people when it's needed. Much like your reviews you presented this info clearly, factually, with examples and completely without bias. As someone who has watched your videos for over 10 years you have integrity beyond reproach. I for one look forward to you bringing new and interesting sets and companies to the brick building community.

[@aslamc9288]

I had no idea this misconception was widespread enough to warrant making a video about it. But, thank you for taking the time to educate those who may not have understood how sponsored reviews work and improving the community at large. Hopefully people who don’t know how this whole system or sponsored reviews works will understand it a lot better now. Great work, as always.

[@bertbergers9171]

I so agree with your reaction, can’t fathom how “ignorant(?)” have become, to not know the hidden agenda that online influencing was before laws on disclosure were written up, and how some still don’t open up to the levels demanded by these laws. Also how people being open on their disclosures still can vary from JANG level self-ethics to people abusing disclosures to influence once again.

[@lilgamgam4767]

my favorite harried lego content creator

[@rodrigomatos1636]

Perhaps the thing that confuses people the most is the very fact that there is no consistency to these sponsored contents. Like you said, Some people only say that a content is sponsored when they get cash from the sponsor, even though then that should be classified as an ad and not just sponsored content, and don't even mention sponsorships when they don't get any cash from companies. And then everyone has a different idea of what sponsored content means, some people think that it remains unbiased, other people just assume that it's completely biased, some people think it's somewhere down the middle... Until we have an extremely consistent application of there rules to all content creators and all of them explicitly explain what kind of content that they're making, everyone is gonna keep having wildly different ideas. And honestly, I don't see this changing anytime soon. Great that you did this though. Actually opened my eyes to this whole situation aswell.

[@emileschlemmer1033]

I do not comment often, but this video is so, so important for everybody using the Internet or really any source of evaluation/judgment/opinion - general, basic but very important questions or ideas to keep in mind when engaging with such content! Really hopes this comment and all the other comments help boost this video; more people, not just Lego fans, should watch and seriously reflect on what you say in this video, Jang. Thank you, Jang. You are a credit to the Lego community and to the KZbin community at large!

[@SO-ym3zs]

This is really stuff they should teach in school. The poor kids these days only know a world of social media and influencers, all trying to separate them (or their parents) from their money. They need to get some critical distance and learn how to navigate it all with healthy skepticism and to remember that every time they go on any social media for any reason, someone, somehow is trying to sell them something.

[@zozer42]

I’ve been watching your videos for 11 years now, and yet you still surprise me with how committed you are to honesty and transparency. Keep it up Jang, you’re the best

[@pinobluevogel6458]

The amount of clarfication, with an open conversation with your viewers, near complete transparancy and the clear ethical choices made here are exemplary. I can't think of anyone, certainly not in the Lego space, that has such a well defined and commendable way of working than Jangbricks. This is one of the channel's clear strengths, which is mentioned even in the comment sections of videos from other Lego content creators. This reputation is well deserved and earned by doing the right thing for a long time and being transparant. To be fair, we want our favorite content creators to do well, so as fans we often don't mind them getting things for free. This is why I prefer methods of financial support like patreon or channel memberships. It allows the creators to stay (relatively) independant. In an ideal future we have a direct connection with the creators, instead of relying on 3rd parties like KZbin, TikTok, Instagram or even services like Patreon. They all take a (rather large) piece of the money, while doing very little of the actual work, as 99.9% of it is fully automated. Keep on trucking Jang, thanks for taking the time to fully go into your thought process and clarifications.

[@ErickMattig]

If there's something that I like about your channel, it's that your reviews are honest. No worries Jang, we trust in you, thanks for clarifying this situation

[@AVeg-f2k]

Sorry to hear that ppl actually unsubscribe just because you reviewed a non-LEGO product. I’m mostly LEGO but actually appreciate and watch your non-LEGO reviews, even though I know there is a 99.99% chance I’m not going to buy the product, just because it lets me see what other products are out there.

[@sebastianmitderaxt203]

Fan boys hate, I emphasize: HAAAAAATE, anyone, or anything attacking their brand. It's called white knighting. And with LEGO it just got worse in the recent years since other companies are regularly just plain and simply better than LEGO. That CADA AMG one set for example just completely stomps any of the LEGO TECHNIC supercar sets. COBI has better color and quality consistency and much, much better printing techniques than Lego for like 10 years now. Many companies have improved significantly in the last 10 years and they do stuff that we wish Lego would do (LED lighting for example)

[@gregobrix]

Right?! Lego is great, but they are no longer the only kid on the block, not even close.

[@minerman60101]

Agreed. That last video which explained the combined print technique was so interesting and I never would've seen that if I exclusively watched his Lego reviews

[@masterpenguins]

this will end up being a very important video for the whole community

[@WaterCarrier07]

You are one of, if not, the most transparent individuals out there

[@SpiritHollowHaunter]

The fact that you took the time to explain this shows what a great and dedicated reviewer you are. I've been enjoying your content for years, keep it up 💯

[@Etienne.6329]

People are ignoring a VERY important fact : Jang is in a position where he doesn't care to make brands angry. It is absolutely true that there's a huge problem on youtube between brands sending free stuffs and youtubers trying to make review while  keeping good relationships with brands (I've worked for a review website, and it IS a very real problem). But it is very different for youtubers who rely on brands to send them free/early stuffs and Jang who managed to run his channel without brands involvement for years. If he makes a negative review and makes some marketing execs mad... it won't impact the channel.

[@PhoenixClank]

Yep, and this ties into the bigger picture that trust is something that has to be _earned._ You can't just walk around calling yourself "trustworthy" (or even "trusted", like some software products and digitalization policies, but I digress), you have to build up that trust over YEARS. And not just by saying something negative every once in a while, but by (in this case) consistently making it obvious that you represent the customers' interests (and as another digression, I hate the word "consumer").

[@essa6315]

You're always very straight about whether you paid for something yourself.

[@AnthonyAvon]

I don't believe that people who get free huge LEGO sets don't have implied stipulation. I will except proof of otherwise if someone links to a review of a set that ends with "So don't buy this set." but it's not the last review on that channel. Starting from myself, I know that as big of a LEGO fan as I am, I think some of the recent sets are horrible, but I haven't seen one review that comes even close to my takes. That's why I only watch your reviews.

[@JANGBRiCKS]

That's healthy skepticism and I don't fault you for it for a second. I will say though, just human to human, I've personally looked into it from the outside, I've prodded & queried various folks in the LAN for years, and I've personally not found one single shred of evidence that the LAN ever even suggests that their sponsored reviewers should say exclusively positive things, much less that they must. With zero evidence confirming the hypothesis, I have to default to Hanlon's Razor. That's not to say there is no bias, just that it there does not seem to be any pushed by The LEGO Group itself.

[@AnthonyAvon]

​@@JANGBRiCKS Maybe it's just my life experience, but I know what people do for a bit of status. Once you get a premium LEGO box early in the mail for free, you're not risking that. You're not listing half a dozen reasons Barad-Dur is a terrible set that we should all skip...

[@JANGBRiCKS]

Absolutely that can be a factor, another form of self-created, self-enforced bias on behalf of some content creators themselves. I was just saying, don't blame LEGO if that happens within their LAN, even though it's easy & cool to say "big company baaaaad." In this type of situation, blame the influencers for their own dishonesty.

[@AnthonyAvon]

@@JANGBRiCKS It's hard to blame anyone... Well, it's easier to blame a multibillion dollar company, but I get everyone's interest and motivation. I have to make the same decisions. I am currently working for and being exploited by a multibillion dollar company. A dream job that I kinda need for my portfolio, and can't yet quit in protest because I need to put food on the table.

[@engilaru]

There will always be bias, regardless of how much compensation or not. Even attempting to adjust for one's own bias will result in more bias the other way. As consumers, we benefit from transparency towards these potential sources of bias, and we have to make our own decisions on how we think they influence the influencers. Good video Jang 👍

[@Mazzaspazza]

Was looking for someone to say this so true

[@SueBobChicVid]

I'm old enough to remember a time when ALL we had to go on was the manufacturer's advertisements. Unless you knew someone (personally) who had previous experience with the product - all you had was the flashy advert.

[@SO-ym3zs]

I think it's a bit easier for us older viewers to navigate the sort of sneaky, ethically dubious stuff being discussed here since we lived in a time before social media. Hucksterism and sly advertising are hardly new (athelete sponsorships, movie product placement, kids' cartoons acting as 30-minute toy ads), but it's become more sophisticated and ubiquitous and hooks little kids way before they are old enough to have developed the necessary critical apparatus to engage with it safely.

[@Trengenator]

Doing this in one take just goes to show how incredibly thoughtful and well spoken you are Jang! I feel like more LEGO reviewers could strive to be as well spoken as you

[@SO-ym3zs]

Jang has the virtue of being both older and smarter than a lot of Lego KZbinrs, who, frankly, are almost kids both chronologically and mentally. You can tell he puts a lot more thought into what he says and the issues he discusses.

[@billkusmit7542]

You're the best Jang. You are the only reviewer I TRUST!

[@Wishmaker25]

Hope you are doing good Jang, never forget how awesome you are to all of us who love watching your videos and spending our time enjoying your awesome vibes. Don’t forget that :)

[@alessandromadonia5491]

Thank you Jang, for making high value contents that not only give good info about products but send good vibes too🙂

[@Insane_IK]

I appreciate that jang isnt afraid to correct incorrect information, its refreshing that someone is both honest, truthful, and moral lol

[@DanielDOleo]

I just wanted to add that I watch your videos for your personality and insight first. You're so genuine and transparent. Even when I really like when a review has the building process included I just click and watch yours for your uniqueness and enthusiasm.

[@Georami]

I hope this comment somehow reaches you Jang. Keep being yourself, it means so much to us viewers. Also as an old school Halo fan, your past Halo Mega content was superb and I hope you’ve still got room 117 around for you to enjoy.

[@joevictor53]

I have nothing against LAN or other sponsored reviews. My biggest issue is the lack of transparency with some of them. I saw a reviewer recently go through a whole review and only thanked the company for receiving it for free at the very end. One of the more well known Lego KZbinrs called them out on it in the comments that they needed to mention it at the beginning and they didn't seem to care too much. I appreciate reviews being unsponsored because I personally find it easier to trust them because I know that reviewer is seeing that money go out of their bank account just like a consumer. I find it harder to trust the view of someone saying a $400 set is worth the money you spend when I know they haven't spent the money. There are some unsponsored reviewers that I watch and some sponsored ones I watch. I've seen some LAN reviews or sponsored reviews of other brick brands that have overlooked flaws that have been noted by multiple other reviewers. Even recently, I saw a LAN reviewer have a big part of a set fall apart in their hand as they were reviewing it and they just brushed past it without mentioning anything. That flaw has been noted by multiple other fans. Because of this, I try to avoid a few specific LAN members and stick to ones that I feel like I can trust. Or if I do watch those reviewers, I watch them as a video showing off a product instead of a review. Also if I'm on the fence about a set, I'll try and watch multiple reviews to get different points of view. I bought a non-Lego set a few months ago based on a sponsored review and it was very positive about the set. When I built it, I found it was a good set but a lot more fragile than I was familiar with from Lego or Cobi. That was something I wished the reviewer had mentioned. They might've overlooked that even in an unsponsored review but it being sponsored always puts that doubt in my mind. That's my own issue but it will always exist. What's weird is I never have this issue with movie critics and they're most likely not paying to watch those movies. When he was alive, I'd always read Roger Ebert's reviews and I had no problems with him getting to watch movies for free. I wonder if the issue people have is the fact that the reviewers get to keep the sets after the review. A film is watched and then it goes away.

[@Grychon]

It shouldn't need spelling out like that; I've always understood how you approach your recordings and appreciate your transparency when it comes to the products you review. But, I too, realise that some people get confused by the terminology that is thrown around (or not as the case may be) when it comes to sponsored reviews. For years now, you have always been the voice of reason and I really value what you do. You are a shining light Jang and we love you for it. Long may you continue!

[@extremepayne]

It can be tough to discern as an end viewer the boundaries between “sponsored, no stipulations” “sponsored, implicit stipulations (threat of withholding of future sponsorships)” and “sponsored, explicit stipulations (contract that won’t pay out unless conditions are met)”. Thanks for being as clear as possible, Jang. It’s a good cause

[@migatron1]

Love you, and your content, JANG! Thank you for another concise and informative video. I learned something new, as is often the case when watching your content, and I thank you for that

[@imaginaryopposition]

Hey Jang! You are my most trusted reviewer in this space for brick based stuff, i personally used to base a bunch of my purchaces (with the leading brand) on your reviews. Mr. Jang, you are the best impartial reviewer out there! i want to thank you for your years of service to the rest of us collectors, My Thanks Jang, for being as great as you are!

[@thetouhoubaka]

keep doing the great reviews real fans will always stay with you!

[@audiotron1003]

Been watching for well over 8ish years for both review, nostalgia (space sets) and just to see sets I will never own or buy out of curiosity. Integrity is everything you have that and I give you trust.

[@calebherring387]

Having been watching youtube for so long, I feel like everything you said is common knowledge. But, if every content creator made the assumption that every viewer already knew all this and felt like they didn't have to explain it, then at some point it would stop being common knowledge. Thank you so much for making this very clear and thorough video that people, not just in the lego space, but all across the internet, can be pointed to when they're confused on the topic.

[@MakeItPerfectlyWrong]

JANG, you’re my lego review GOAT since the Hero Factory days. It makes me sad that these things have to be clarified further, despite you being very clear in the sponsored videos on what’s happening. Excited for your Botanical Garden review, due to your Lego set reviews NOT being sponsored. You’ve never steered me wrong! ❤

[@Marbles35]

I find value in ALL of your videos. Keep up the good work. Love your opinions.

[@Badamson1]

This is why I love you jang! I've seen creators with 100 views endorsed through LAN who don't disclose. If you endorse a competitor I value your recommendation 100x more than other "influencers"

[@DarthCoco]

Honestly, it's hard for me to describe just how high respect you deserve on what you intend to do, and have always intended to do.

[@personperson9530]

Loved this rambley type video, there are few people I know that have actually thought about consumer advocacy and having watched you for ten years, it shows. Media literacy (at least in the US) isn’t taught in a traditional manner so it’s often up to people finding it out themselves. Luckily, for all those who watch Jang, we have someone who knows what he is talking about and has the values to not abuse it. I like that you call it a gradient on quality of reviews, because it really is. Some people are good with reviews, some show biases because they are sponsored, some people are malicious and feed on rage, it all depends so it’s important to be able to parse through it. Just a few thoughts, not really adding much to the conversation. Really enjoyed this video so if you have more in the pipeline like this, I’m down.

[@SuperWorldeater]

As a longtime subscriber, I've never questioned the sincerity of a Jang review. I couldn't care less about compensation or how the sets were acquired.

[@11Survivor]

You know this man is GOATed when the worst drama around his channel is the fact he got sponsored for two videos.

[@mikahag]

You has always given me the impression of being absolutely honest and personal. And also very educational and entertaining. I’m sure this is a common view of your followers. So please do not listen to anyone who criticizes you for no real reason (sorry for mistakes, English is not my first language)

[@nolalego5243]

Have you every been an educator in your day Jang? Videos like this and your COPPA video from a while back are super informative.

[@ThatJaymsWisdom]

Great video JANG. Most people do not understand the creator space/ecosystem for monetisation (and related interactions). That's more commonly based in misunderstanding rather than misinformation but it's always excellent to see people like yourself trying to educate and inform the general public about these things.

[@kadendabate4295]

Love your content Jang, you've always been "just a nice guy" and it's refreshing on KZbin

[@EvilLobsterKing]

Understanding the landscape we find ourselves in is very important. Thank you for lending your voice to helping with that.

[@imperial_brickz]

Love you Jang I watch all the reviews from you the best part is always your assessment at the end. Keep it up

[@CraigGrannell]

My first commissioned review was well over 20 years ago. Not a year has gone by without at least one person arguing that I have been paid by a company for reviewing a product. I doubt that will ever go away. But I wish I’d had a video like this to point such folks to. Thank you for making it.

[@Tigger_34]

I have watched from the beginning and Everytime I can see how much joy it brings you! You are appreciated my friend and there is nothing wrong with making a living!!!

[@shiftypas]

I am soooo glad u made this video...despite what other people say about a product, You have to judge it for yourself...so many can't understand that concept

[@alantorrance1475]

Been following you for years and love the content (primarily for your honesty). I think the shopping mall videos were the first time I came across you. I am mainly a lego fan but the none lego stuff is always eye opening as you often get stuff I haven't been aware of. Keep up the good work

[@Lordodragonss]

And thats why we love you Jang. I watch you since 2012!

[@Mr_Waffle.]

I appreciate that you’re the most honest and open reviewer around (for any product!)

[@ianumathews5922]

once again jang proves why he the goat 💯

[@bensmith7963]

Learning that Jay isn't a homunculus created specifically for reviewing Legos and is sentient and has a life of his own is something I did NOT have on my 2024 bingo card

[@bly2015]

Glad to see you’re still collecting Mega Halo! Hope to see those videos return.

[@paulbarry5730]

Morals are steadfast, and this channel has consistently demonstrated a commitment to them, often displaying higher moral standards than many others.

[@_RobertS]

Jang, I first found you because of your city, at a time when I was about to come out of my dark age. I'm still here, it must be more than a decade later, even though that city has taken kind of a u-turn. I'm still here, not only because of the top-quality content you provide, but because I soon realized that you are a humble, honest, and genuine person. You care. We also seem to have the same taste in cars, despite growing up in different continents, which is just an extra cherry on top. Keep being you, and I'll stay indefinitely. Thanks!

[@jawjuk]

Thanks for the clarification, and, more importantly, the REMINDER that we need to try to think critically. Especially tomorrow...

[@M0torsagmannen]

i really appreciate your integrity and transparency. keep up the excellent work

[@MrVIPGuest]

I gained so much respect for you for saying no to the affiliate program!! Ive done sponsored content as well, and havent made any money off of it, but i cant pretend i didnt sign up for the affiliate programs. Thanks for all you do, Jang.

[@JS1983-w8z]

Thank you for the explanation. I have watched your videos for many years and always appreciated your honest reviews and will do so in the future.

[@ОлександрПарфьонов]

Thank you for this and other videos, with such creditability i can’t believe someone doubt in your honesty

[@andreschiavon4309]

Perfectly said. People are just lazy, they don’t even try to understand. They are just ready for attack making negative comments. If there is somebody on KZbin that’s always very clear about sponsorship is you. I appreciate your content for a long time and this was very clear to me already, but glad that you made a very educational video explaining the details which many others prefer to hide.

[@vonyinzer]

I have gotten off brand sets, I typically avoid anything that is a straight lego ripoff, but there are some amazing compatible bricks out there, and amazing kits, being a purist is limiting.

[@DD-coder]

The best video I have seen for a while in YT. Thank you Jan!

[@thecurlywoofer4876]

Well said. As a secondary school teacher, I have seen firsthand the decline in critical thinking skills in our children (and adults). As an AFOL, I am constantly looking for varied opinions on sets to chose carefully where I should spend my hard earned money on products I deem worthwhile. As consumers, we need to exert our individual responsibility and judgement, not just allow ourselves to be spoon-fed by algorithms and what capitalism dictates will make us feel better. As always, I am a huge fan of what you say and how you say it Jang, be it Lego, other model brands or your opinions on life, the universe, and everything. And that is a decision I have made based on positive experiences around your honesty and integrity. Good job.

[@thesonofdormammu5475]

I really liked your recent videos about Cada and Funwhole. There are a lot of brands out there and it's hard to tell what's good and bad quality. TLG really needs some good competition, I haven't liked their price points from the last few years. I trust your opinion 100% when it comes to quality.

[@edwardedwins9906]

This is why I will always admire what you do Jang, you are a solid human being made of some quality stuff. I know when I watch a review the vibes are going to be chill, informative, and genuine. Thank you for keeping it real all these years, and helping your viewers make informed decisions about what products are best for them. Honestly, I wish I could get a "Jang take" before any new product I get but I'll take what I can get haha. Cheers brother, hope you have a good day!

[@roberthughes4631]

Keepyour chin up Jang, keep going. Been watching you for about 7 years and your content is always top notch. Review what you want, i’ll be watching regardless 👍

[@About41Jackals]

I've watched for years, and without a doubt you are one of the most raw and real reviewers. You give your opinion freely and objectively, making sure your opinion is simply that. You're very logical, and very well spoken to a degree I wish other fandom besides LEGO could be blessed with. Thank you for speaking your mind, clarifying, and making your audience better as a result!

[@ned_ryerson0202]

As far as I can tell, you are a wonderful person, please keep going Sir!

[@Bricksnaps]

I like it when leaders in a 'space' speak up in this way. Its an important part of a community. I watched the video, not sure Im fully aware of the full context, but that does not mater because you have made some factual points that I HOPE others see and implement.

[@VladsBrickCastle]

I've usually made up my mind about buying a set before seeing your review. So I either end up being happy about my choice or unhappy about it, mostly when a set I can't afford to have (money and/or space reasons) is actually awesome. It's rarely your opinion on a set that matters to me, but the detailed walk-through. There's plenty of negative stuff you keep bringing up that is not a big deal to me, and there's plenty of things you like that I couldn't care less about. BUT you're consistent, open, and you keep doing the right thing even when you know it will hurt your online presence, and by obvious extension, your bottom line. But it's the right thing to do, so you do it. I trust THAT. And it's not because of your gorgeous face and psychedelic lights, but because of your constant urge to do more, to do better, and to provide value for your viewers. Taking it a step back, even outside of sponsored and such, you always declare 'conflict of interest' when you're simply a fan of something (source material, lego theme...), just so you'd make sure we're a bit more sceptical of what you say. Keep being you, man!

[@DunksterBricks]

It is surprising how many people don't declare it as sponsored even when they are receiving an item of value for free to review and don't mark it as sponsored . A lot of the LAN posts annoy me because they don't have the videos labelled as sponsored, some people could be in a bit of bother if an official body starts looking closely. I'm just glad you're now getting your Fun Whole.

[@samferraro6756]

Most of us know you do the right thing. Clarification is always good.

[@brokennib1]

Been subscribed to your channel from the beginning, back when you did RC vids. As a creator myself, it is an unbelievable challenge to get started reviewing just about anything, you need a lot of "capital" to review products until you get enough viewers to even attract the attention of any of these company's. In the RC world it's why you see a lot of reviews of a lot of overseas junk nowadays. Personally, I would be tickled pink just to get an e-mail! But my whole perspective have always been on the side of the consumer, and how to enjoy my hobby without gobs of cash. Because it comes from my personal experience. (which is about 35+ years now) So even though I'm not a "Lego" guy, I'm still subscribed, and appreciate your addressing issues such as these. Great vid.

[@OriYentl333]

As an audience, can we just take a moment to say “sorry” (for your high blood pressure). People can be so silly - from your reaction during the video, at times, those people or at least their comments can get under the skin. If I were in your position I am sure I would have the same reaction and can share the sense of frustration it can cause. 😅 For me, this signifies your integrity and strong moral ethics of what is correct and incorrect. So this brings me to my main point and why I started typing this comment - essentially to say: Thank you for making this content and taking the time to educate those who do not take the time to educate themselves to know the difference between sponsored and non-sponsored and the financial implications (or lack) thereof. Your quality of content and caliber of character & opinions is what makes this channel so special and keeps me coming back for years. It is one of the few channels out there that is not afraid to share honest opinions and thoughts even if it may not be flattering to the brand of product, once again - thank YOU for your consistency and honesty. This channel is a treasure 🌟 I hope this comment is read with the respect it is intended as often comment can default to be viewed through a negative lens. Wishing you all the best 😎👍 … and also wishing for less people making silly comments where they clearly didn’t think before they wrote them. 🤣

[@holgerdornseiff3202]

Well Jang, thank you for your words and statements in this video. I sat for a few moments and thought over if I should comment it. But I want to give you my support here, as a brick fan and as a free minded person. I watch a whole lot of brick building content on youtube. When I started to do so first, I kinda checked out the complete scene in Europe and the US, as far I was able to understand the language of the reviewer. Being experienced in the sale and marketing business it was clear to me, that there are only a few people that are non sponsered. Now why do I watch almost all of your content? Because it is great professionally done product information and, as I find, really entertaining. That you have no deals with manufacturers going was a bit the cherry on the cake. Very often I thought: Wow, how much work and struggle must this man have not getting free products or sponsorships! Chapeau! Being a collector and builder myself, I know how much these tons of lego cost you every year. Now knowing your channels and having seen your video about your private city layout when people tried to influence this completely hobby based stuff of yours and you "fought" back, I can tell you, even if you would get all the lego for free by the company on a content giving base I still would follow you and trust your opinions and advices. I do not always agree with your reviews, to be clear, I´m not a blind super fan, I just like what you are doing, because it helps me build my own opinion about a product I might buy from my small income. Please never forget: The internet has developed into world´s largest ancestral. And some people just don´t know better. Don´t let them spoil our hobby nor your job as a reviewer! Thanks for your hard and good work so far. Your video was important, you made your point and that`s also important in a world of fake news and prejudice. Long comment for a long video. All the best from Germany!

[@bertbergers9171]

Thank you for opening up on this topic, internet is such an uneducated space most of the time!! And as far as the affiliate links are being talked about: I noticed you had no links posted for those videos and was wondering how come you weren’t in on the affiliate program. I am very happy to be able to hear you disclosing abstaining from that program for these sets due to them being gifts. In your case after watching a few years of your content, I would still trust your objectivity, even if you would gain from the review.

[@pablofluiters7741]

You are amazing and I always feel your integrity and conscience when you make a review. I feel like you're having a hard time with this topic but it's not necessary, everyone who follows your work knows that you are trustworthy. Thanks for everything

[@Dushyant-pt9vc]

Jang take it easy bro...u r the best reviewer there is.period

[@TonyMontanaDS]

Anyone who leaves because they don't agree with something you do won't go far in life. Keep doing what you want.

[@RangerNC611]

We love you Jang and I have always been a supporting you for about 6 years, your a great guy and don’t stop doing what you love