My Reptile Business Shut Down: Why Emerald Scales Failed

[@RadiantReptilia]

This video is Ethan approved.

[@evanalexjames]

You should start making videos again. I’ve been subscribed for (I think) 5 years, Alex for 6ish, I think. I haven’t seen you post a video in years.

[@YukiCorporation]

​@@evanalexjames😮😮

[@ethanber0223]

i second that

[@lsuhillary]

Y’all need to get the band back together again! Maybe actually go herping!

[@losingmymind611]

Sounds like it failed because you guys' good intentions and qualities were overshadowed by the logistics and demands of business. Feels like a "good" failure.

[@teijaflink2226]

They where young too, a great learning experience. Then most who give up their animals likely are pretty irresponsible, it's not easy when part of your job is dealing with people, like the issue with people not being honest about their animals issues.

[@saga2964]

Yes, which is a tragedy bc there are so many reps that could use your help. You had a great amount of integrity for the incredibly strong desire you had to first and foremost make a great living and not have to do a ton and a half of work. Most people would cut corners, but you didn't appear to let that compromise your commitment to their wellbeing. ❤ As you realized how people actually are with their pets (esp those rejects), following any directions, having hired help, and then all the work (and expense!) it takes to rehab a very ill animal (let alone simply care well for many different ones), it was just too much! I would love if you ever decide to try something like this again--the world needs more people who are dedicated to the cause of rehab'ing and saving neglected animals and having someone that can be trusted to do it!

[@BirdSniff]

So much passion, but so little manpower. I hope he learns and is not discouraged. The world is a lot.

[@animarts954]

W/ any type of business morals, beliefs, ethics, and paradigms are always challenged. Which is why businessmen are seen as corrupt b/c they only care about profit. Alex failure in business was what makes any business fail w/ good intentions, his heart. Emerald Scales was a profit business. He should’ve been charging people to send their pets. Shipping, type of reptile, type of level of critical care the reptile needed, charging the person fees for missed schedule. He need a solid foundation to keep it stable and going. Alex needed to put on his big boy pants and manage what needed to be done. Communication is key. The notion documenting the level of care is beneficial. Additionally, he needed a financial advisor on where his assets where going for what changes needed to be done. Don’t get me wrong, Emerald Scales could’ve been successful but lacked a proper management team.

[@murrmansreef3944]

For real so many people cut corners in the animal industry.

[@peachbubble8652]

Although it was shut down, I am very glad that you guys were very helpful in rehoming my snake, Pancake!

[@gwingobingo]

cant believe i saw a RoachDogg Jr. here of all places

[@sweetsky701]

what’s a RoachDogg Jr

[@JesseRyan]

@@sweetsky701 Ermm, you just had to be there okay buddy...Kind of cringe.. Hope you have a great Puhskinti day this year~

[@rpsultansmooth]

oh wow its the roach dog jr

[@sweetsky701]

@@JesseRyan I watched this channel for years and still don’t understand what a roachdogg jr is

[@basilstorm9461]

I cannot believe you started doing this at 17 and then stuck with it this long. I'm 22 and still have no idea what I'm doing with my life. You've done great work, and I know you'll find success with anything you decide to pursue.

[@GoHerping]

if it makes you feel better, i'm almost entirely directionless now! lol. and thanks

[@fraxinus_ash]

I'm 37 and same 😂 direction is overrated

[@sweetluvgurl]

@@GoHerping You’re still young and will eventually figure it out.

[@jamesdoakes4956]

Bro you have 600k subs, you’re a lot more ahead than most people. You just need to find a niche. I’ve seen many businesses fail in the reptile lane. But some of those that failed made the mistake of digging themselves in a hole where they couldn’t get out. Ended up bankrupt. This lane isn’t that popular which makes it even harder. Most in this lane would make more doing educational clips about them on KZbin rather than selling them. It’s rough. Hopefully you come up with something.

[@Hershewed]

I’m 25 and have no idea what to do with my life either, mental health issues and wanting murk myself isn’t helping either :/

[@jenniferandrew3373]

A lot of your experiences sound like what any animal rescue goes through. I'm involved with a dog rescue, and it's super common to have to step away from time to time. The burnout and compassion fatigue -- and hating people -- are real.

[@GoHerping]

yeah that makes sense. I definitely never wanted to be a rescue but it was almost inevitable...

[@lsuhillary]

I agree. Six years of rescue and I was done.

[@shawn-oldaccountl6748]

@@GoHerpingyeah, it happens, don’t feel bad, you did a lot of good for quite a long time and probably saved hundreds of animals. Things don’t have to be forever, they can come and go, lots of people do kind of similar things to you just on a smaller scale, they maybe take in just a couple of animals that need to be rehired, rehabilitate them, sell them, and then continue that cycle and it can just be a hobby or a bit of a side-job while they focus on a sustainable career. A lot of businesses like yours try to run like a profit organization and unfortunately that just isn’t really the way that rehabilitating animals works, it pretty much always ends up being basically non-profit in the end because it’s just about impossible to make a living wage off of flipping animals. When doing rescue work it’s super easy to get really overwhelmed with how many people need help, bite off way more than you can chew, and then get sick of it and give it up completely. Even if you never rescue another animal, I think you’ve probably done more good for the reptile world in just those 20 years of life than most people do in 90 or 100.

[@B_Bodziak]

I foster animals and I get frustrated at humans all of the time. The condition in which people allow their pets to become is mind-boggling and frustrating as hell.

[@GoHerping]

It was a long run, and we undoubtedly gave it our all! Hopefully this video fills in some gaps and gives closure of exactly what happened and why. One thing that hasn't changed is my enjoyment of making videos, and it's safe to say that I'll be here for a while :] I've been exploring a variety of topics, so maybe some of my recent uploads will catch your eye?

[@privateprivate8256]

One special moment imo was the bearded dragon you got that came with its own personalized blanket. It showed the owner really cared about the lizard and trusted it in your hands. I hope it went to a good home. EDIT:I finally looked around Alex's videos and found Lil'B the Bearded dragon. It is his Unboxing Video #4

[@mrfrog5786]

I like the chill vlog like videos that you do. I mean that's mostly what you do nowadays anyway so yeah just keep doing that lol.

[@noongourfain]

You learned A LOT!! A lot sooner and faster then many other start ups? You did and good for you!! BTW....shippers shouldn't LIE...but they do all day every day.

[@noongourfain]

FUCK EXOTIC VETS WHO DID NOT GET ALONG WITH YOU!!! It's their business model that SUCKS!!!! If those vets would abandon the crappy business model THEY WOULD MAKE MORE MONEY OR JUST AS MUCH!! IDIOT VETS!!

[@noongourfain]

YUP!! Never ever forget you did a great job!! Thanks for this video!!!!! (I have just 2 red eared sliders inside who are X & Y but HATE each other!! so I can't even imagine what you went through! and at a very young age)

[@xXSlaughter3dXx]

Failure or not its an insane achievement at 17.

[@xXSlaughter3dXx]

Also 9-15 an hour is about the same pay as dog kennels. . . Which have SIGNIFICANTLY more needs. People are greedy. Its a mf snake. Just feed, clean, go.

[@gvirusqueen3559]

@@xXSlaughter3dXx Not if the snake needs to be assisted fed and is trying to bite you. 😅

[@xXSlaughter3dXx]

@gvirusqueen try the same activity with a 120lbs german shepherd for the same payrate. Licensed vet techs get paid like 14. These are untrained unlicensed kids and friends.

[@gvirusqueen3559]

@@xXSlaughter3dXx Oh I’m a former vet tech, you don’t have to tell me. I’ve done both. 😊 Both are hard in their own ways regardless.

[@dm2836]

@@gvirusqueen3559 It’s hard work and people deserve to be paid a livable wage to do it. If it’s a job that needs to be done, anyway. If it’s not important work and doesn’t really need to be done then I guess no one should even be doing it for anyone but themselves.

[@tex3003]

I got Lida (my female ball python) from you guys in 2018! You guys were so patient with me and answered all of my about her health, behavior, and feeding habits before she arrived; I was so impressed by your attention to detail and the quality of care she was receiving. She was in perfect health when I got her, and hasn't had any issues for the years I have had her. For all it's worth I'm glad Emerald Scales existed, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

[@michigan8868]

RIP Emerald Scales. I remember browsing it a lot with my sister, and she got a bearded dragon eventually lol

[@cartilagehead]

Emerald Scales had a fundamental problem: its mission was nonprofit charity work but it was trying to operate and raise money as a for-profit business.

[@user-gs6zm5qk9y]

Did you not listen to a word he said?

[@unapproved-apples809]

Ehhh I think it's more trying to run a more moral business in an economic environment where immoral business make money the easiest.

[@cartilagehead]

@@unapproved-apples809 nah. nope. there's a reason why virtually all animal rescues and shelters are legally designated nonprofits. selling animals for profit and rehoming abandoned animals are fundamentally incompatible aims. "Running a moral business" is an oxymoron when the only way to stay solvent is to do things "immorally" (again, this is why nonprofits exist).

[@cartilagehead]

@@user-gs6zm5qk9y I listened to the whole thing. What's your point?

[@halgaucher6730]

@@unapproved-apples809 I think you and OP are basically in agreement. Its nigh impossible to make something like this work in a self-sustaining way without big investors to cover the initial costs, i.e. non-profit types.

[@catied2944]

I just want to chime in and say that from my perspective following the company through some formative years in my life, Emerald Scales was not a failure. You helped many people rehome their animals and find others' next beloved pets. You inspired many more people to enjoy a hobby that took me through some of the roughest times in my life. Maybe Emerald Scales didn't pan out the way you hoped, but it ended when (maybe after) it needed to so you could find enjoyment in your life. I hope you look back on these years with pride that you did something interesting with your teen/early 20's hustle energy and that you remember that you will always carry the valuable things you learned.

[@teijaflink2226]

Honestly he probably helped many animals from neglect and too early or bad death. I admire too that he was so young but still brave enough to start this and that he chose rehoming instead of breeding even if that probably would have been easier money. This is a great learning experience for possible future businesses that he will start.

[@JennAlessa]

This was such a lovely comment! Better said impossible!

[@johndillion5804]

You were the reason that I have given my turtle a better life. He had been living in a 40 gallon tank for 10 years, and has long outlived the space he was in. there was a large film of algae that had pretty much covered the side of his enclosure, and the filter was completely and totally underqualified for something that produced as much waste as he does. after seeing your videos, the guilt that i had always felt for his condition was thrust in front of me, and I immediately took action. he now lives in a 100 gallon tank with tons of fish friends, a hand built filter and overtank basking spot, and every couple days he gets outdoor playtime. He used to open his mouth when i would approach to try and threaten me to leave, and now he comes to the glass and splashes to try and get me to pick him up. You saved my little guy, and I wish you the best in all of your future endeavors.

[@B_Bodziak]

That's incredible! My daughter wanted a turtle. So, I did some research, and they are a lot of work to take care of them properly. She got four hermit crabs instead. Three of them lived over 12 years.

[@milissaellan6805]

Sir, you have described all the symptoms of clinical depression. Glad to hear you're doing better and are able to love your animals again. ❤️ I've been there, it's hard.

[@sagew1312]

Was thinking the same thing but didn't wanna say it

[@midnull6009]

No, it's called being burned out and having life hit you with reality...

[@techne360]

I was legitimately going to mention that as well. I'm diagnosed myself and all the things I was passionate about were just... blah. It was mashed potatoes. I'm so happy he's back to feeling himself and I'm quite sure the stress did not help at all.

[@stephelizabeth]

@@midnull6009 depression isn’t the cause, it’s the effect so everything you described are all things that can lead to depression.

[@UnfazedPhoenix]

The burnout from that type of business is different from standard depression.

[@thrivemindfully101]

5 years is a long time to deal with all those animals (and people)! Thanks for sharing the process with us. Your honesty is satisfying. ❤

[@desertdragonworksaz]

I never knew it was this hard, and you had so many problems, and I want to say Thank You! I purchased three animals from you, and they are all still very healthy and we enjoy them. So, please know that you did a good thing for lots of animals, as well as lots of people. Sorry it had to crash and burn, but I applaud you for giving it 100%.

[@1jazzyphae]

For some odd reason these type of businesses don't last. We had a reptile rescue where I live and it tanked. Not enough donations, no grants, no one wanted to support us. A lot of volunteers. Everyday more intakes than adoptions. So freaking sad how reptiles are treated. Yet not enough help to keep it afloat

[@ColorsFlight]

Whoaza I get like extreme anxiety spikes as I listen to this. The fact you were able to keep this going for 5 years is absolutely astonishing.

[@TJ-um8ce]

Some people are born to be entrepreneurs... the rest are workers. Nothing wrong with that, this is the way our society works. Eventually, workers can BECOME the entrepreneur with hard work and dedication 👍

[@Absolutely-Maybe]

I cannot wait to see where this channel goes. I started watching you when I was a reptile owner, when you stopped that and became more business oriented in your content, I was also ending my reptile collecting and starting my own business. We are all just along for the ride.

[@ellafedak6250]

I loved your reptile videos, but your doing great rn and I support anything that makes you happy!

[@GoHerping]

thanks!

[@ellafedak6250]

@@GoHerping Of course! :D

[@dwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww]

You're a good person for continuing to help old customers w/ their animals. Thanks for caring about these lives.

[@norsene1408]

You actually did an excellent job. A five year run is very good for a start up. Doing this at 17 is just awesome. I believe that with the experience you have gained from this, you will exceed beyond all expectations with your next venture.

[@Ballowt]

Man your transparency has always been one of your best qualities and for it you will thrive no matter how much backlash or negative input you receive. To undertake so much on at such a young age would eventually chip away at even the strongest persons mental fortitude so bravo to you Alex. You are still so young man and to get out of one venture before it permanently mentally wrecked you is the best decision you made. I look forward to seeing where you are by 30 bro. Well wishes to you and enjoy the current light load until your next journey and undertaking 💪🏽🥂

[@bri220]

I'm glad you rediscovered your love for Shiro. I've experienced that level of apathy. It's hard to find your way back. You're doing great.

[@missmaru6159]

As someone else that just had to shutter a business I started, this felt very validating and cathartic. Really glad you spoke about this and glad I got to follow this journey

[@luxe.tin-creates]

I always love your behind the scenes type content. I still keep reptiles but I don’t watch much reptile content anymore. It’s cool to see you grow away from that as your passions change. Keep it up man!

[@leaschmitt2496]

I think this kinda sums up why this type of business is better set up as a rescue rather than a for profit business. It's just very hard to make profit off of live animals like this if you have to rely on getting them in possibly bad conditions

[@UnfazedPhoenix]

Even rescues need to make a profit.

[@Disbebh05]

@@UnfazedPhoenix Yes but rescues also are exempt from taxes and such by the government

[@savagerefret1486]

Truly I'm glad to finally know what happened to Emerald Scales. I remember being inspired by your entrepreneurship and confidence starting a business at such a young age. Glad to see you've come out the other side of this experience truly more knowledgeable than before, & not only that you have shared that knowledge with all of us.

[@beelzuh4456]

The moment you decide you want you hobby to become a business changes everything. Also a lot of ppl don't realize how hurtful angry customers can be. They will make it their mission to hurt you and your business as much as possible they'll send you email, right nasty comments on all your social and exaggerate and over dramatize their experience to other ppl

[@ashmenser7959]

I am the same age as you, I was a 17 year old in 2017. Even though emerald scales failed, you’ve done so much more in your life to this point than I have. You’ve helped so many animals find new and loving homes and you’ve given so many people a passion for reptiles, myself included. My beardie, Eddie, would not be mine if I never found your videos and a love for reptiles was sparked in me. I hope nothing but the best for you in your future projects and endeavors. ❤

[@lindsayn7568]

Honestly though your channel brought so much incredibly useful, ethical information. You bit off so much and achieved so much and you absolutely deserve time to defrag. But please dont stay jaded forever, you did so much good and we dont get anywhere without failing, me and my bp Irwin really appreciate you man. A lot of people in life really suck but it's awesome to find cool people like Emerald Scales working their asses off for the little guys so thank you that time 🐍

[@epiclexi1234]

what does "bp" mean?

[@lindsayn7568]

@@epiclexi1234 ball python :)

[@techne360]

That's true! I came here originally to learn how to take care of my reptile, but after that it was just really cool learning about and seeing all the other reptiles in the world! Plus Alex's videos were also just really funny.

[@sillysasuages]

Animals and businesses don't often go together well. Especially when you want to make money and not be a charity that is funded by donations aka the animal is the product you are selling. It can get sticky and difficult very quickly especially if you have strong morals. Sometimes you have to have a heart of stone to make a successful business and not worry about stepping on anyone. A lot of people save or make money by cutting corners or explotation, and you can't really do that with animals. Or maybe you shouldn't ethically do so. To make money you would either have to cut the care, time, food etc to save or make some money. And I'm not sure if that's right with living creatures, obviously you can be savvy from where you buy their food from but you can only reduce the costs down so much until you've hit the wall. Like my cat needs £13 urinary box food, that's the cheapest I can find it, so I have hit the wall with bringing that cost down. Like I've seen someone keeping snakes in a rack with single sheet of paper lining their draw, one hide, water bowl and nothing else, which probably saves a lot of money, space and time spent cleaning, but a lot of people would argue it's ethically icky to keep them like that constantly. And with rescue situations, demand will always outstrip the max you can take in. I don't know any good rescue situation that isn't full to burst and still has people begging them to take in more. And obviously sick animals will always cost more money than healthy ones. And I don't know if it's ethical to deny them that care if you have the means. Also, it's not like you can do "I put 400 dollars into this ball python through various things so I'll list it for 600 so I can make a profit." Not many people would pay for that. And I imagine due to the husbandry issues around reptile care and knowledge surrounding keeping reptiles are huge problems within the community, I imagine healthy animals were not the most common thing you received and got from CL.

[@beluga2342]

such a nihilistic view on business lol

[@sillysasuages]

@@beluga2342 True. I did say sometimes after all but mostly this comment was said through the lens of animal businesses: flipping cheap animals for profit wasn't going to work without cutting some corners. And tbf, if you've read any books by "business gurus" or people who have become extremely rich, this attitude exists and is quite prevalent. It's also really interesting reading books about how certain companies started and toes were very much stepped on :p No one becames a "self made" billionaire without some kind of explotation involved. Of course, there are good businesses and people out there, who do some real good with their cash but I can easily understand why morals might fall wayside when life changing money is on the table :) Have a nice day.

[@teijaflink2226]

It definitely is ethically worse if you had to cut corners to make your business go around if you work with animals, I feel some people could fall into it specially if it's about your business survival but I can't imagine it would make you feel any good if you're a decent person. What I really dislike with breeders is that I haven't heard anyone be honest that the reason they are keeping their smakes in a box with a paper towel is tocut corners and save money, even worse some try to make excuses that the snakes love living like that, that it's actually best for the snake, even gaslighting pet keepers that seems like the breeders know the best, arn't they expert, perhaps I should put my snake in a box too, when it's so obvious to me that it's mainly about money for the breeders. I understand understand that you sometimes have to cut corners in a business but I agree that it really becomes ethically problematic when dealing with animals.

[@sillysasuages]

@teijaflink2226 Yes. It crosses a very iffy different line when animals are the product to sell. And I'm glad I'm not the only one who thinks that iffy. Yes, it services their physical needs somewhat but not mental at all, also I wouldn't feel like a good pet owner if I was only providing basic needs (shelter and food). Like What if the snake is too warm and still wants to hide? they can't do that because they only have one hide in the warm side. Also needs and wants can cross, like my cat needs playtime for mental stimulation, but can they cope without it and survive? Yes. But that's not the life I want to provide. It sounds like an awful life to lay on a piece of paper in a plastic hide with a water dish. It does nothing to stimulate them mentally, they can't even do natural behaviours e.g. burrow in substrate. And when you cross over in 250+ plus animals, you will not have the time to physically handle to give them enrichment. And I know it's a money and time issue, even though realistically buying a bag of rocks for them to use to shed wouldn't be that expensive when you do the split the cost per animals. If you do research, there is plenty of thing that you can get free to use as enrichment. I know some snakes prefer to live in a small enclosure, which I accept, but unless they have health needs, I can't imagine a snake hating some foliage in the draw and a substrate that replicates where they are from. I find it really sad when someone has 500+ snakes in racks, with paper, bowl, hide. And that's it, especially when you know they're probably turning a decent profit and could easily set aside a grand to buy some hides for the cool end. Or upgrade some racks. Obviously some pets are very individual and there won't always be "Do this 100%" in the animal world, but I find that if people feature animals like that, they tend to be upfront about it e.g. A blind snake being in a smaller enclosure and the decor doesn't get changed. I think if people have large collections, they need to triple the staff, amongst actually providing something better than an empty draw (One person I saw used a draw without any hides). I mean, do they even watch their snakes take their meal? Or do they throw it in and leave? Like just watching an animal eat can give you good health issue, e.g. if you watch your cat struggling to chew, dental checkup is needed. But if you didn't watch them eat, you might not realise for a while. I think getting 500+ plus snakes, is probably not a good idea unless you've got atleast 20ish staff. It eventually just becomes hoarding and animals needs quickly fall to the wayside. And each staff member should probably be in charge of only one section of a rack each, so they can get to know the animals within their rack intimately and know their normal behaviours.

[@ParticularFinger]

​@@sillysasuages I can't agree more with a comment. 100% correct

[@MxALot-fp9yt]

As someone who bought a reptile from you, I truly appreciate how thorough you were in both vetting me and in the quality of care you provided my snake. I could’ve gone somewhere much cheaper, but an ethical rehome is what I wanted.

[@diddycallout1893]

Hate to see this you did awesome work,I’m 21 and just started 6 months ago into my job(meat packing plant) right now and just bought a 3 bed 2 bath trailer, I plan on building up my reptile collection and giving them the best care possible now that I have so much more options. Thanks for everything you did for us viewers. I commented before watching all the way through but now I did, I have an ESA dog that I love, I wish you luck and offer nothing but love. God bless you Alex !!!!

[@GoHerping]

nice!

[@denalouise5975]

It was a great run. Thank you so much for all the valuable content. I wish you all the best on your next chapter in life. Ethan and Alice too. Rip Stan

[@botanicalmania506]

I really appreciate the amount of transparency in this entire process

[@GoHerping]

thanks!

[@solncedino6989]

you know, i think i never properly understood what volunteer burnout or animal care burnout actually was like until i heard you talk about feeling like you should rehome your cat. it was so saddening to hear and it really put into perspective how scary loosing care and love for animals actually is. i'm super glad he's still with you and i wish you both the best

[@StuckOnPandora]

10:04 makes me sad. I still have people say, "yuck," automatically, when they learn I keep Reptiles. They just don't get it. Great video dude. You matured and learned so much during that time, and did a terrific job documenting your Life. I'm sure it's onto bigger and better things for you, and I hope your knowledge of Animals gets put to good use.

[@kirstyphillips6150]

I love how upfront you are….. even when it sounds bad, it is what it is and I love that you just say it upfront! I am currently binge watching your videos. Keep it up 😊

[@TK-xp1xu]

Number 8 is a big one you should be proud of honestly. A lot of “rescues” do exactly what your sales process was but call themselves rescues misleading. There’s is nothing wrong with what you did you should be very proud of your character and your accomplishments so far.

[@bri220]

I burned out of a lot of jobs because I wanted to do the absolute best job no matter my pay. My coworkers, employees, and managers did not. I'm self-employed now, and I constantly have to remind myself to focus and not try to do it all.

[@KiddDaPhoenix]

I'm sad to hear about your issues and how it failed. You taught me most of what I know about keeping my ball, and she's gone from not eating for months as a baby to eating and thriving very well with me for years now. I've never been a customer of yours, but I have always (and still do!) wish you all the best!

[@_ZeroQueen_]

So....based on what you said and my professional experience, you sound like you were very depressed at that time. I'm sorry you were so unhappy. I'm glad to see that you are feeling better now and have a spark and joy again. I hope your friendships have been mended. Have you seen a therapist about any of this? All the same, you've grown so much and I look forward to seeing what you put out next.

[@GoHerping]

thanks! youtube is my therapy lol

[@JustinSVA]

Appreciate the honesty of this video. Good to see the full insight on how this project went for you over its lifespan. Hopefully the experience from this project will help going into your next success!

[@GoHerping]

thank u sir!

[@rachelbanane7509]

Wow, it's so crazy that you've uploaded this today because I've been recently rewatching your old videos this past week. I'm so happy I was able to witness all of this Emerald Scales process. Your animal videos were always such a joy and I was wondering to myself "Hmm, why doesn't he do it anymore?" and BAM you come out with this video lol. Your videos are still fun to watch. I'm glad you've gained many skills, and learnt valuable lessons. I've learnt a lot through your videos as well. Thanks for all those entertaining moments. I've been subbed since 2018 so I've seen almost all of it! I'm still watching, keep up your great content! :D

[@BreadR17698]

Burn out does make you hate even your passions, but hopefully you’ll heal and enjoy it again. It will never be the same, but it won’t be bad forever. Thank you for your overall positive impact, you helped me and i’m sure a lot of people here learn about reptile husbandry, and you helped a lot of reptiles get an appropriate forever home. Even if your business was a financial failure, I invite you to see it as the impactful success that it was on the individual level.

[@sgtwinkel3696]

Thank you for making this video. This video is an instance where I watch it and come to lessons that I realize could of possibly saved me from tons of mistakes and stress had I not. Thanks for sharing your story with us through these years, your story and videos have and I'm sure will continue to be an entertaining and invaluable resource. Take care of yourself and I sincerely wish you the best.

[@vickers5941]

Putting this in the context of what you called real hustle culture makes so much sense. It's also what I enjoy watching about you, the way you really get into projects is super entertaining. So looking forward to the next project :)

[@briemorrison6610]

Unfortunately failure is a lesson, what i love is that you learned SO much from your failure and that's beautiful

[@dianaguevara6824]

rip emerald scales. I remembers scrolling through all the time and I loved the unboxing videos. what you were able to accomplish is admirable and as someone from North Carolina it makes me proud lol good luck with whatever comes next!

[@stepha_F]

Major respect to you for setting a goal and sticking to it🙌🏼

[@norakatar]

I just surrendered 2 snakes because I felt the same way about them. I got them because I was homeschooled for most of my life and I was super lonely, so they kept me company when I had no friends. At first, it was hard, bc I've always told myself I'd never get rid of any animals I have/had. I also bonded with one of them because I rescued him and I felt he genuinely appreciated me (looking back, that wasn't the case - he was just a friendly snake lol). But sometimes, life just hits you. And it hit me like a rock when I graduated high school. I realized I didn't love them as much as I used to and as much as I hate to admit that, it's the truth. The way you're so transparent and honest about your situation makes me feel so much better and I'm glad I'm able to relate to you, bc although I knew what I did was right, I hated myself for it anyway. Thanks for sharing your story :)

[@sabriguzman]

thats a lot. ngl my mood is super down after seeing this. but the transparency softens the blow.cant stop thinking about your pets and how you felt having to make that decision. also cant stop thinking about the "a lot of the best years of my personal relationships were ruined by this"- because I know the feeling. so happy you technically made it to the other side now. thanks for the honesty

[@GoHerping]

thanks! and sorry about your mood lol

[@jeremyyerke]

Y'all saved a lot of lives of our cold blooded friends and for that I thank you

[@gahdzilluh6674]

I have really been loving going back and watching all of your reptile vids when im at work or going to bed. Thanks for the hours of content, and I'm happy you are doing whats right for you!

[@asheddingchancerr]

Wow, the raw realness of owning an animal rescue is insane. I’m so sorry things didn’t work out, but holy moly, I hope you take this experience and recognize that you did the best you could with all of your workers and you were aware of everything!! You being honest, raw, and real is what makes you stand out out of any entrepreneurial experience. I can’t imagine how hard this was and kudos to all of you who worked on Emerald Scales ❤ I hope you take time to take care of yourself too from this

[@Mr59J]

this seemed like an insanely stressful video to make bro. Emerald scales altogether seemed like a nightmare of sorts. I get the feeling you all did absolutely everything you could. Wishing you some much deserved peace hope things are looking up now. Been a minute since I visited this channel haha

[@GoHerping]

admittedly kind of put off making it cause I get fatigued thinking back over it all. It's kinda crazy how stress can affect you! and thanks :) Doing good atm

[@Mr59J]

@@GoHerping I feel that, its definitely one of those situations that would send me back to bed for the rest of the day every time it pops in my head 😂 Good on you for pushing through and getting it out though fam. Must feel like a bit of weight off your shoulder. To be honest, life has absolutely steamrolled me and then set the flattened remains on fire. Watching this, knowing how close we are in age and position in life has given me some much needed perspective. I didnt realize how badly I needed to hear someone that I could relate to vent lmao. We are really just getting started at this whole life thing tho. The ball is in our court properly for the first time ever. I genuinely think the path we are on is gonna bear some rich fruit one day. My bad for ranting you just got me thinking 😂

[@turtlejeepjen314]

“Reptile Flippers”…..newest show on Animal Planet (as opposed to “House Flippers”!!😂)

[@saga2964]

I just want to thank you again for never letting money compromise your integrity or cloud your heart! ❤

[@GoHerping]

i appreciate that, thanks! :D

[@batlux]

I've been watching your videos for ages and I cannot explain how interesting it has been to see the ups and downs and changes in your lifestyle over the years! I always enjoy watching whatever videos you make and I hope you know that you are an inspiration!

[@YochevedDesigns]

I have SO much respect for you! You have amazing ethics, and brutal honesty. I don't think your video was negative, I think it was vitally informative. This should be a TED talk, for sure. It would be great for anyone who is thinking of going into any business, and should be MANDATORY for anyone who wants to make money in any sort of animal business. I quit breeding Australian Shepherd dogs because too many of them were being abused and abandoned. I never made a penny on them, and lost money on every litter. Going to shows was exhausting. Instead, I started rescuing and rehoming dogs one at a time. Now that I'm older, I foster feral kittens, all at my own cost. I do it for the love of the animals, not for any financial gain. If I feel like I can't do right by the animals for any reason, I use my rescue network to find someone who can take over.

[@JMemski]

I got into this channel quite early on (not super early tho) when i kept reptiles... i had 3 leopard geckos and went on to have a beardie and a hognose snake. My oldest leopard gecko i adopted in 2012 and she was be around 18 when i had to have her put to sleep 2 weeks ago. I also keep pet rats now and i have had a child whis now 2. Its been a fun journey to see alongside you, Alex! Weve all changed, learned and grown a lot, and im here to stay through whatever you do next :) i miss my Geemo, I'm glad my other reptiles are thriving with friends but i cant imagine getting another reptile 😅

[@ItsPizza.]

Good on you for getting this all out. Life is about being happy.

[@nicodani2247]

Love the honesty of this video. The burnout is real. I relate to this so much. I don't own my own business but I'm a manager at a pet store and I used to not care about anything more than taking care of animals and making sure they went to good homes. Unfortunately over the years of having to deal with horrible vendors and customers who just want to impulse buy pets and not listen to anything about husbandry, I also started to hate people and working with animals. It's hard to enojoy taking care of animals when there's 100+ and 3 people with only so many hours in a day. It really does make going home to your personal animals feel like more work sadly. I'm glad that you're able to still enjoy your cat and your chickens ❤

[@itssassysarah]

I came to this video to support you and kind of curiosity of the rundown - I didn’t think I could be so interested in a business video, but I was genuinely hooked onto this. I’m excited to watch you grow in any and all future projects you do!

[@JoeCastro]

I got a couple reptiles because of your and other channels. You have taught me a lot, you’ve also entertained me as well! You’re very young and have a bright future! I still watch your videos. Thanks for all the tips! Good luck down the road!

[@SheepUnderwater]

I want to say that I watched your videos a lot! My husband and I have a few reptiles ourselves, and I think that your videos were definitely an inspirations and helpful education for us and our scaley friends. I think it is awesome that y'all were able to put so much love and passion into your project, and even though you don't do it anymore, but you were able to learn a ton about running a business and the experience is something you can keep with you forever. Thank you for making this video and sharing your personal successes and personal struggles with us.

[@gogogadgetabby]

You rescued a lot of reptiles and I think you should be proud! I will miss the Emerald Scales videos!

[@ReptileSam]

good stuff man, it takes a lot to put this out there. definitely learned a lot over the years watching your stuff and I appreciate the raw footage of your journey. best of luck!

[@JennAlessa]

Thanks a lot for sharing so much about your journey. All the honest insight about the things that ruin many projects long-term is really helpful. I'm glad you were able to reconnect with that love for animals, now with a different perspective and a wiser heart. I've been following your channel for so long that it's outstanding how you've grow so much and it's partially sad to see ES vanish but that means greater things will come and I'll like to stay around to get to see them. Hugs from a stranger and happy life for you and your next steps!

[@GoHerping]

thanks!

[@jasono312]

The comment on exotic vets rings very true for me. The hard truth is, there are so many different species of reptiles and amphibians, and there is no clinical research or literature for the majority of them. Medical issues in herps are simply not well studied. Most exotic vets in my area just prescribe the same antibiotic to EVERY species for EVERY issue, because they have no idea how to actually treat or diagnose any of these animals. There is also an abundance of conflicting information in the herp community that doesn't help. Google literally any species and the word "care guide" and you'll find at least a dozen articles that all recommend: different temperature ranges, different humidity, different substrates, different feeding schedules, etc etc. It is so hard to actually find definitive information, and the only people that can be trusted are those who have been successfully keeping healthy animals for long periods of time.

[@Chinesetakeout382]

Despite everything, I’m still really glad you guys did emerald scales. Your leopard gecko care guide was what set me down the reptile hobby and the work you guys did inspired me to adopt a rescue bearded dragon when I wanted to get one.

[@atticusmackmin4267]

I have been watching you for a very long time Alex, and it would never bother me if you never took the time to see what I am about to write but, I think you deserve to hear someone say that they are proud of you, we all are proud of you. Hearing you choke on words about how you lost the love of your cat and everything going on hit me differently. It shows you genuinely care. You cared for so many beautiful living lives and that truly is amazing. I am so proud to hear your doing so much better (maybe Im assuming) but you more recent videos on your garden, chickens etc. have felt more real and more enjoyable ever since videos on emerald scales. I enjoy you and everything you do AS a content creator just as much as i enjoyed emerald scales content. Keep doing your best :) your smart, brave, and one of the coolest cc's i know :D The ending made me tear up alittle, on to the next chapter of life GoHerping!

[@itsLalm]

its uh, word of mouth. not mouth to mouth... unless this is some new fangled Cardiopulmonary resuscitation based marketing im unaware of

[@GoHerping]

lmao. oops

[@SupremeGecko]

This gives so much credibility to young people (how many times did the number 17 pop up :) that DO create very successful businesses. Take some classes- Business skills, hiring skills. Talk to bigger breeders about the 'non-reptile' side of business. Absolutely watch videos. I know the standard reply will be "I don't/didn't have time" but do you really have time to go through what you did these last 5 years? I hope this was a great learning experience for you. I'm sure you've learned enough to be successful on your next adventure.

[@davido6880]

Not Renting the commercial property was the biggest mistake. We try to save a few dollars and over time it cost more. You could have put a sign out and sell the reptiles to walk ins.

[@cowlauncher0901]

I rescued large constrictors with my brother when I was younger. Those times were some of my favorite memories, but life happens and you cannot always have the time and/or space for large reptiles. Doing the best you can while you can is all we can do

[@graysonk5477]

I feel like if you could go back in time, I would've started with a specific species or something like only ball pythons or only snakes in general and then over time you could have diversified the animals that were accepted (I know nothing about reptiles other than these videos lol, but I think your business idea was pretty genius!) I think if you ever try this again you could also start selling your own cleared products for the reptiles as a bundle (cage, food, etc.).

[@Watch7maker]

I watched the whole video and want to congratulate you for trying. You did a good service while it lasted and learned a lot. Good luck in whatever you do next, King!

[@Teabone3]

Extremely valuable video for entrepreneurs , its been a fun journey to watch over the years. Will continue to to see what other things you get up to. Thanks for sharing

[@CamboyGDubbz]

You have one of the best pages on KZbin. Thank you for sharing your journey, and being so transparent and honest through the whole process. Your growth has been very informative, and truly inspiring!

[@timmelkoonce8609]

Nah, Alex Emerald Scaled wasn't a failure. You are a great success story. Starting business at what 18 and learning all the way. Shouldering all that responsibility at such a young age and keeping it going for 5 years?! Nah Alex, give yourself a round of applause! 👏👏

[@GoHerping]

thanks!

[@DiscoMood]

Hello Alex. This was an excellent video chronologically taking us through your business adventures and the ultimate exiting of Emerald Scales. You provided great tips on what to do and not regarding a reptile business. I did love your humor in many of your videos but all things must come to an end in order for other opportunities to manifest. I wish all the best in whatever new adventure you immerse yourself into as you tackle your future. Thank you for sharing this informative video.

[@-cMc-]

Your shipping boxes were definitely the improvements your plush animals were the improvements ❤🙌 your standards and communication and vetting was superior.

[@ivy5554]

Can you do an animal update video where you show all the animals you still have?

[@Rayneworld]

I'd like to see this too, even if it's just like cute cat time :] I do understand tho if Alex doesn't want to post anymore reptiles to his channel because he's moving away from that stuff. But I would like to know which pets are still around too!

[@lemonlizard1]

I really love this video tbh. It really closes that chapter of your channel permanently, and I'm glad it ended on somewhat of a good note. Can't wait to see where it goes from here

[@deoyx]

I think there is something to be said for giving up on emerald scales. You suffered some pretty bad compassion fatigue towards the end. I think letting go of such a stressful project has helped you recover from compassion fatigue. Im glad you were able to get back some of your love for animals, especially your cat. I've been there, it sucks so bad. Add burnout on top of it? Jeez, I'm surprised you aren't completely grey in your hair.

[@kindaintrovert208]

It sucks that it didn't work out. It was such a good company and you guys worked really hard for the animals. I hope that you will try it again later on in life.

[@gwenjohnson7373]

I help with hiring for a small business from time to time and I haaaaate it! There are so many things to be aware of as an employer. It doesnt help that you can be as careful as you can and still have horrible experiences with employees who seemed great. I've known animal rescuers and it is emotionally crushing work. It never ends, vacations or even just short day trips are rare and surrounded with stress trying to make sure the place won't fall apart or animals die while you're gone. Like you, their home environment was 100% utilized for the rescue. I hope you find a fulfilling long term path and that all of the work you put in and still carry in your heart serves you well in the future.

[@ronr6450]

I hope you realize how valuable the experience you gained is. Use it to your advantage. BTW, there are a lot of people who are not nearly as brave or ambitious as you. Keep it up. Build on it.

[@muribird232]

just rediscovered your channel after what must be two years.... you were the first youtuber I started consistently watching after I discovered herping as a hobby! wild how time passes :')

[@washingtonwise80]

You've accomplished more then you realize and gained real world experience. Your head is filled with tons of knowledge. Lol, I was going to mention veterinarian... I love the video.

[@lorrieuiux5802]

This was an incredible video. And very honest and forthcoming. There's so much that goes into businesses that most people don't think about. Let alone a business with living creatures and all the care and time and energy going into that. And it was also interesting to hear you speak honestly about compassion fatigue. I cannot imagine experiencing it first hand taking in so many sick and neglected animals. I am glad you were able to step away from this when you started feeling this way.

[@Gael32]

One of the fastest ways to destroy your passion is to turn it into a business. I used to love photography, became a real estate photographer, now I can't even do it for fun. It literally makes me tired when I think about going out and taking pictures "for fun."

[@dabert5972]

As someone that has formal experience in business development and self employed for the last 3 years developing software, you did insanely good for someone that never worked a job. You’ve got a really process oriented brain my man!! I have hope for something like this still tbh! I think you just needed to step away but this has potential as a non profit - without a doubt

[@willow2950]

I’ve been watching you since you started, watching you over these years I can definitely say that you changed a lot, and I enjoyed your videos. Reptiles are my passion, sometimes you just get burn out. Not everybody is built to work with animals their whole life, or be a manager. Thank you for everything you’ve done over these years though, have a great day!

[@starlightangel1990]

Aww. I rescued a beardie from you who is doing great. Sad to see you go. I loved supporting you. I'll obviously still support by following and watching lol

[@Frostmute19]

Genuinely interesting video and really refreshing to see such honest self-critique on youtube. Great video and I am glad you have found things to make you smile again.

[@GoHerping]

thanks!

[@juliabennett4431]

Part of growing up is changing your interests. Loved the honesty here and I'm glad Alex got his passion back 💕

[@lavasevilgainz09]

Even though I miss a lot of your videos this is still one of my favorite channels just because of how human I feel like you are, especially in your gardening and gig videos.

[@thisisnttwitterwtf]

This was such an informative video. Thanks for being so open, crazily enough I always felt like you didn’t like what you did but I thought maybe it’s just your personality.. anyways you’re braver than a lot of us for starting and failing something like a business. You definitely have inspired me to just.. do it. much love and peace ❤️‍🩹

[@emacd520]

Alex, I’m glad you ended it when you did. I’m proud of you. We’re the same age and I’ve grown up with you over the years and I still enjoy your channel . I hope you find some purposeful direction. I hope I do too lol