Patreon vs Sponsorships - A truthful discussion about YouTube Adsense, Patreon and Sponsorships

[@drott150]

You surely know of products you actually like, use and truly respect for their quality and usefulness for outdoor living. Instead of fielding a barrage of random emails from random vendors looking for ad space, I would proactively reach out to the specific vendors you truly endorse and like - sincerely - and ask them to sponsor you. And in return you offer to produce an honest and heartfelt ad that there is no salesmanship or lying in it. And/or prominently display their products in use during your day-to-day life on the channel. You really do use these products and have for years and you really do recommend them. And be totally up front about the product placements in the videos and tell the audience - this company is a sponsor, but it's because I asked them to sponsor me, not the other way around. I really do use this and I really like it. I think the audience would appreciate field tested equipment they know will work and is of good quality. And it's easy to sell something you really do believe in. Seems win-winnish for both you and the audience.

[@blindspot_adventures]

As a content creator I believe that anytime a corporation is involved the possibility of the integrity of the creator can be jeopardized. Money definitely has the ability to corrupt art and this is apparent in the entertainment industry. Having your art funded by your fans keeps the art pure and true to itself.

[@Gravelbeard1]

I can't afford to pay for patreon so watching your adds is the closest I can get to supporting thw channel.

[@bentheredonethat9296]

I prefer not to watch ads and that’s why I pay for KZbin premium

[@MichaelKilby]

Jason, I love the Creator background information. I think most Creators are reluctant to discuss everything that goes on behind the scenes. I subscribe to KZbin Premium so I don’t see the ads. I do see sponsored ads and don’t really mind especially if they’re long time sponsors, one per video. I’ve subscribed to Patreon for a few Creators over the years. I say keep it and let the viewers decide. I still feel awkward watching KZbin videos knowing Creators are not well considered and I’m concerned about what may happen as algorithms change and what happens to them after KZbin and/or retirement. Thank you for sharing, I rarely miss a post, longtime sub. Merry Christmas!

[@cliff4769]

Honestly, we just want to see you do well, and have the opportunity to view, like, and comment on more videos. I appreciate your videos because of the landscape you capture from behind the lens. I especially appreciate you as a fellow awakened patriot. Would like to see you on more trips too if you’re up for it. Be well, brother! Love what you do.

[@jennstuart2031]

I prefer patreon rather than the vendor ads. My reason being: you put out some of the best and purest outdoor content in the small list of channels that i watch. For that, i would rather pay you directly. I've been out there nomading for about 12 years. I know what it costs for gas, insurance, food, maintenance, clothes, a new pair of shoes, etc. You take your travel a step further and video and post it. You go places i may not go, and i want to see the views from the tops of mountsins over the clouds. It feeds my heart and soul. If it takes ads, so be it. But I'd rather choose patreon. Thanks.

[@chuckrf1502]

My preference is ads that pop in and can be skipped after five seconds if not interesting. I do not do Patreon and I have maybe a dozen channels that I watch with frequency. I enjoy your channel and content and you are a straight shooter. 😊

[@libertywolf76]

The fact this topic has arose is gold. I think a mix of 1- honest and good sponsors that you actually use or support 2- patreon and other forms of alternative subscribers/supporters Are the best forms. Thanks again for allways making such great content

[@luke_8027]

That’s a really good point that money from companies comes from viewers buying their products. So it really doesn’t matter if income comes in through patreon or company sponsorship

[@thierrydrapeau7791]

I’m a subscriber of your channel. As a van owner, I like your content and the visual aesthetic of your vidéos. For me personally, I don’t mind the ads. Keep up the good work!

[@johnscherer376]

For your channel I will pay for excellent content without the ads. Everything I watch has ads. Ads are everywhere and I am sick of them. I need to get my Patreon started again with you on Primal Outdoors since it was discontinued on the Van Camping channel. Your work is excellent Jason. For me, worth paying for.

[@The_HomeHandyman]

Jason, I subscribe to KZbin premium so I don't get the ad interruptions which I find annoying. I find that I don't mind short one time in video ads presented by a trusted content creator that can provide honest and unfiltered reviews or presentations about a product. I recently purchased a Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 as a result of one of my favorite and trusted channels. I don't fault a creator such as yourself for making an honest living. Having camped with you a few times, you are one of my trusted channels.

[@deraldswain5516]

I don't mind ads or product reviews. I just want a whole video about products.

[@vv-mc7io]

Jason, I commend you for being frugal ! The problem for me is if I pay ytube for no commercials, how is that dispersed? If I go through patreon, how much do you receive? Another way of saying the same is " how much is being stolen by greedy corporations ?" I have been watching and a subscriber for quite a while. I believe there are many of your viewers like myself who do not trust the tube or patreon because they are not upfront or honest about how much they keep or what you receive. If you, casey, or donald have a video discussing this recently, I apologize for missing it. I and many others enjoy the three of you, bless you and keep the great content coming.

[@softroadingthewest]

Thanks for making this video. You've painted an accurate picture of the never-ending dilemma the average KZbin creator faces. Many of my viewers want to watch the content for free, but skip KZbin's ads (so I don't get paid), and also get angry if I include any kind of sponsored material within my content (so I don't get paid). I've been trying to find a balance between the ad revenue generated on KZbin, Patreon, and minimal - but ultimately necessary - "corporate" sponsored content. I appreciate Casey's point of view (and I genuinely like Casey personally) but he has the luxury of being able to shun Patreon and survive just fine. For me, without Patreon buffering the fickle whims of "the algorithm," my channel would wither and die. At the end of the day, Casey has proven himself to be a more clever and savvy KZbinr than me (I remember having more subscribers than him not that long ago) and he has totally earned his success, but I like making the videos I make, and I think (I hope) my viewers appreciate the balance and realistic, down-to-earth approach creators like you and me have struck - even if it's not very lucrative. 😆 Some comments here on your video adamantly push back against Patreon as "wanting viewers to pay you for content," but that is a gross oversimplification. Patreon members receive many perks and, more importantly, become part of a close-knit community of like-minded viewers who appreciate and recognize the (largely undercompensated) work we put in to produce the content they enjoy. Both your Patreon community and mine have led us both to superb long-term friendships, while at the same time making it possible for us to continue in this line of work. And I put my money where my mouth is: I am a paying Patreon supporter of numerous creators whose work I enjoy. At the end of the day, I'd rather accommodate viewers who appreciate and acknowledge the work we put in, more than viewers who somehow feel entitled to pay nothing, watch with adblockers, and then gripe when, left with no other choice, we include sponsored content.

[@lindasmith2935]

I'm a viewer that can't afford to do Patreon for any of the channels I follow. Wish I could but I'm not rich. So, I allow ads because I have to. Don't like them and will, if I can, scroll past them even mute them. I like what Casey is doing by only sponsoring them if they work or he would use them. He's an honest man who I admire for that. Please do what you have to do to continue your wonderful channel. Will watch no matter what. Just remember honesty is the best policy and thanks for this video.

[@tiesonloewen4259]

I would do both. I’m not going to stop watching because you have an add. Get that cheddar!

[@JerryJensen-p8i]

I’m a subscriber. I love watching your show. Keep up the good work. I’ll watch regardless.

[@RatherBeWheeling]

Great great topic, very complex and one many creators have to work out with viewers. I have 3 channels, two monetized one is not. Have been posting since 09. Have turned down a new trucks worth of "product collaborations" money lol. I agree with what you said, seems every time they want to change the rules/terms after you receive their item. It really is a tough deal once you get to a certain point, time and tools cost money for production and most creators spend a certain amount of time to grow their craft. Adsense can be a nice boost but is, as you said very unreliable and seasonable depending on trends and algorithm shifts. I think having several revenue streams from different sources is about the only sensible thing to do, some ads, some subscriptions, a little merchandising and a few good solid sponsors that mesh with content and viewers. The real gut punch for me sometimes is seeing a youtuber promote an item I know is junk and know they are getting paid for it.

[@scottd7926]

I'm YT Prem so I know that impacts subs differently so I can't speak to more/less ads. corporate america has massive marketing budgets. to me it's just another way to diversify your income. you've always been transparent in your product placements and I've always viewed them as, "if it works for his lifestyle it'll definitely work for me".

[@skyepilotte11]

When I watch You Tube content....my expectation is that there will be ad interuptions...patreons possibly expect special content not shown in a regular video. Ads and unbiased testing of products is mostly a fact of any viewership experience. Maximize your income any way you can. I love product reviews and real world testing . Thx Jason

[@OutpostCycleandGear]

Ads no ads I’ll be supporting the channel! Love the content keep up the great work!!!

[@OverlandAdventureTimes]

I'm happy to have Patreon as an option if I really enjoy someone. Ads during the videos are just expected at this point, and as long as the creator is not choosing to insert an excessive number of them, it's fine. I'd much rather see periodic gear review videos, than when a channel has one or two "main" sponsors. Those begin to feel like shills for those products, whether they are or not. Depends on how they integrate, I guess, and I don't want to name channels, but there are a number in the overland space that I just don't watch anymore because of that. I feel like you, and for example Donald, have always handled this very well. That, and over-hyping and exaggerating pretty basic experiences are my pet peeves 😄

[@buzzboykin9982]

I don't mind the ads. For channels I subscribe to I watch any ads less than a minute or so long and often click on the link to their site. A small price for good content.

[@brocio]

Some other channels I follow will do a separate video reviewing a dozen or more products that they’ve been testing out and giving opinions on each. One recent video was a holiday gift guide based on products he was reviewing. Wonder if you could stack multiple reviews into one video every now and then (quarterly?), or do the sponsors typically request that their product is the only one featured in that video? In general, not bothered by sponsors even if it’s every video. Thanks for committing to giving your honest review, that’s all we can ask. Thanks for your videos, been following you for since 2020

[@AWheeler45]

I’m not sure if it falls into the category you talked about but I like the idea of passive affiliate links the best. If I can buy a product that I’m interested in anyway but you get a kickback and I may get an additional discount it makes the purchase feel more beneficial for everyone

[@davidpatrick1813]

This is interesting. Follow your gut feeling for sure. Your artistic skills are really nice.

[@CraigLister-d8t]

Hi Jason, your channel(s) is one of the few "real" youtube channels that I watch. Most channels are nothing more than a medium to sell products. I know you need to make a living but I feel that moving to an entirely sponsorship model would change you and your channel. I do like that you have been up front when a video is sponsorship such as your review of the Ford Transit Trail van. I would donate more $$ to your channel if I could afford it. I really appreciate the time and effort you put into your channel. Thank you!

[@spatrickone]

I have no problem With appropriate ads and or Patreon for your channel or others. Combine them both. I watch your videos periodically.

[@NotSoFastOldtymer]

I’m inclined to recommend that you accept the corporate ads where your good conscience allows. Let those with the deep pockets pay for their time on your space thus supporting your lifestyle and our viewing pleasure. If someone is hell bent on not seeing ads that KZbin thinks you want to see, like me 😂, they can (I do) get KZbin Premium. If a person doesn’t want to see creator’s ads they can fast forward through it. Nothing wrong with getting paid for what you do.

[@davidpatrick1813]

Good day. I hope all works out well for you. Rainy a lot here in Oregon.

[@BradMangas]

I'm really not a big fan of sponsership ads in videos. I understand the need for them, and it doesn't make me not watch the videos. But my preference would be to not have to set through some plug about something I may or may not be interested int. I have always thought Patreon to be a good thing for creators. If I would ever get into creating videos I would try to go the route you have been going, that being very limited sponserships and offering a Patreon alternative for thoughs who "chose" to partake. If you stated doing more sponsership in order to help the channels and the need for finacial security I would completely understand and would still watch and stay subscribed to your channel Jason. In this day and age, we just have to do what we have to do. Take care fella.

[@DudeLovesHorror76]

I don't mind the You Tube ads; it's a good beverage refill or a run to the head. I think you would be best served to pull from as many resources as you can. Maybe offer a membership video line on you tube for your bigger fans.

[@BillBlyleven]

A lot of times I find when a channel starts to have more than 10 to 15% of their content to be sponsored content I start to loose interest. I do maintain a Patreon account with a budget of $20 a month total (plus minus) and maintain subscribsions as per the above observations.

[@allentisthammer4763]

I very seldom watch broadcast TV due to the insane amount of ads. KZbin has been my main entertainment. And I do watch what you recommend and what you use, same with Casey and so many others. No so much what you're hocking in the form of paid ads. At the same time, I appreciate no ads. I would like to be considered as 1 of the 40k that you referred to. And as such you have my attention one way or another and I'll make do with what you decide upon. Can't make everyone happy and your they guy making the content and you need to make a living from your efforts. Some of your peers have gone over to the full-on ad sponsorships and their content has suffered from the phony sales pitches and once that threshold has been crossed you will know when folks start dropping off. Good luck.

[@AboutaMileAdventures]

casey uses his day job for his channel as well right? Its not like your making any money in the woods unless you went back to photography. So its imo apple to oranges.

[@KarinaR-u9v]

Personally, I am fine with ads and skipping them if I am not interested. As much as I appreciate the idea of Patreon, there are many content creators that I watch, and it's not affordable to sign up for every single one of them.

[@williamsons79]

Would think a good combination of sponsorship, patreon and ads would work well for your high quality videos.

[@TheJamesburgin]

Do both.

[@jadefinchscene5644]

just for me, i like less ads from YT as they are for things i will never in a million years buy. i want you to be able to make content, so however you fund it doesnt much matter to me. i know what it takes and how much it costs to make content, and it needs to be paid for somehow. i like it when creators disclose that a product was provided and whether they were told what to say or not, and whether it is more of a sponsorship, or a review. if i like the product i will look up more videos about it. if not i just pay attention to the rest of the video... happy creating, see you in the next one.

[@malikerg11]

I like you personally but may be you need to have a semi retirement long term plan were you find ways to make more money and I think you can create, promote and sell your own line of outdoor products. This is one idea that might work for you and I like your honesty with your viewers.

[@justinrichie2598]

This is the way I look at it I use to pay for a tv service I no longer do so if I follow your channel and it is one of my go to channels I don’t mind paying for your time and effort although I do love a good review but not once a week but if you really love something I like to know and also what you don’t like it’s just a way to speed the love around

[@smtennant]

I would pay for patreon for your content.

[@mikebartosch9892]

I don't mind the ads or sponsors its just the way its always worked. I say make.your money anyway you can.

[@CampingWithSticks]

Ive watched other channels where it seems like theyll review anything (and always promote it!). Makes me lose respect for their work and channel. I dont mind reviews, as long as they're in an episode of their own and not blindly promoting a product.

[@christopheranderson8619]

I don't think people have a true realization of the hours of your time required to produce content let alone the costs associated with living this lifestyle. I think there is a misconception that you're living dirt cheap and just reaping in $. The cost of fuel, food, camera and drone equipment, computers and editing software, etc. I feel you balance your sponsorship/review content well and again you are not willing to sacrifice your integrity for $. I wish I had the ability to support all the channels I follow via patreon but unfortunately the best I can do is buy some merch, watch all the releases in full, and comment. Placing the sponsored adds at the videos end with a soundbite at the opening is an option I've seen but in order to ensure the video is watched in its entirety I just let it play out giving little attention to the sponsorship after I've viewed it once. Keep up the great work and I'm confident you'll find a balance. And I personally watch all your content as well as others (unless a product review that's of no interest) regardless of format as I feel it is the personality that draws me in along with the content.

[@CherylRiley-g8i]

I look at KZbin creators as running a business, I think they should have patreon as an option and do sponsorship videos or product placement. There is no shame in making money. Commercials do not bother me either.

[@garygardner9677]

You've gotta do what you need to pay the bills. I'm ok with that.

[@PuffinPass]

My honest reply is that I don't mind sponsors or plugs for Patreon, you have to keep the lights on like anyone else and content creation involves a constant investment on your part both in time and money. As for Adsense, I use a very efficient blocker so I nearly never see them. I know this cuts into your income to some degree but YT has an ad problem and shows many predatory ads and straight up scam ads, I don't want to be a part of furthering that side of things at all. As for the sponsorships I have zero issue with them, but if I feel it is a disingenuous money grab reading from a script then I will be turned off of the product and view the channel it happens on a bit differently. Now if you ever launch a meme coin then I am out completely. I only expect people to advertise for products that they actually use and see value in because the only thing you have is your word so putting your name to a product is something that should not be taken lightly.

[@bentheredonethat9296]

While we are at it, how can I send you a custom laser, engraved bush, craft knife, or camp knife?

[@garrettscott4094]

I'd prefer to watch your own reviews over the yt ads. Your reviews would be more applicable and genuine to me.

[@relevanttraveler6263]

As a long time you tube premium sub... it slightly bugs me to see the "channel owner" do adds...I pay to NOT see ads, But it's not as bad as using you tube free. And patreon I know nothing about. Trying to keep my social media to a minimum.

[@DaleCrocker-p9e]

I don’t mind the commercials I skip some of them

[@chrisjmiller6]

I have KZbin Premium, not sure how that is spread across all the channels I watch. If done correctly and the product corresponds well with the channel I don't mind sponsored videos. Some content creaters do it better than others. I imagine the type of products you could work into your videos is nearly endless. Most of all, you would retain control of the "ad" in your video.

[@Thergood]

I like the idea of Patreon, but eeeeverything is a subscription these days. I watch a lot of KZbin. Even if I did just $1 a month to all the creators I like, I’d be paying cable TV prices. Ultimately, I have nothing against it. I understand why it’s appealing and don’t blame anyone for going that route. I hope you’re successful either way.

[@OutWestUS]

I hate Casey Ladelle! 😂 Just do what works best for you.

[@garya6647]

I pay for You Tube Premium so hopefully you get some of that. Also a Patreon for you. But I subscribe to over 100 channels so can’t be a patreon to all of them. I don’t mind sponsorships where you use the product but don’t like it if it goes on too long (over 1 minute). I hate unrelated promos, eg sports betting.

[@marcericdavis]

It seems to me that you have a clear path. Offer Pateron, if you get enough money from that alone then there is no need to take sponsorships, if not then you are left with little choice but to take them. Your viewers will let you know what their vote is by their actions. I wonder if you could make any money in a less intrusive way using product placements. Pocket knives, wrist watches, ...

[@bentheredonethat9296]

I believe Patreon helps yall not have to depend on an algorithm to fund content we obviously enjoy watching.

[@stop153rz2]

Does YT premium affect creators? I say do what benefits you and helps to provide for you a comfortable life. We enjoy watching you and annoying ads won’t change peoples taste. We want you to be successful and thrive.

[@CallaVentures]

Ads are not a biggy! I’m not paying directly to watch videos. I understand the rationale but I’m not a patreon fan. It’s kinda like click bait to me. Throw out a plug for pattern on the KZbin channel to hook the viewer. Just my opinion. I’ll continue skipping commercials. Thanks for excellent content while I’m here!

[@expat0149]

How you make you money is not really any of my business , also if by doing sponsorships it means you have the money to carry on , then great .:)

[@cway444]

I will never pay for a Patreon account, if the content is not what I want to see I will just move along. Wanting viewers to pay you for content is Bull S_it.

[@jeremygates2722]

Agreed!