It's Been SIX YEARS (Real Lessons From Growing A YouTube Channel )

[@IFarmWeFarm]

One of the main downsides from KZbin i found is all your free time is gone , hobbies and social meetings become second best but on the upside you get to meet some great people and presented with opportunities that you thought never possible before. I’m at it 5 years now and really enjoy it for the most part. You have to be yourself and although other channels may influence your filming style it’s important to be unique. You have that in abundance. Your latest documentary style videos are super interesting and the cinematic overlays help created the story. Well done, you’ll be in the 100k club soon 👍

[@StephenJReid]

Yeah you loose some things and gain others. Glad you’ve been enjoying the doc style. As a farmer any insights or thoughts on the issues around slurry & runoff?

[@IFarmWeFarm]

@@StephenJReid it is a complex problem with many causes leading from residential , commercial, agricultural and the changing climate itself. It’s happening in our own local lakes as well where only a brief visit can sometimes visibly detect the source. In regards to agriculture, things like slurry bans needs to be addressed, science research shows that 90% of runoff from slurry comes in the first week after the ban is lifted and the last week of when it’s enforced, that speaks volumes! Farmers should be allowed make these applications when the land and weather conditions are suited and not when i guy in an office decides the correct date has come. I now use protected urea as a form of fertiliser, this is a voluntary program in which i entered where the fertiliser is incased in an egg like shell which in turn slows down the leeching effect dramatically. I also think the entire sewage system both private and commercial need to be seriously look at. A lot of our public treatment systems in both Ireland and the uk are in a shocking state. You won’t have to travel fare before you’ll encounter visible signs of this. I could right a book on this subject, the most frustrating thing is sometimes the solutions are very obvious.

[@StephenJReid]

@@IFarmWeFarm yeah the slurry ban in particular seems totally ridiculous. It’s not going to stop irresponsible farmers and it just stops the responsible ones from being able to exercise common sense. That shell thing sounds interesting!

[@IFarmWeFarm]

@@StephenJReid look up protected fertiliser, your 100% correct as in there are farmers who carry out bad practices and makes us all look bad. It’s the same in every industry. There’s a lot of political mismanagement happening too which drove the need for cheap food over the last 10 years leading to overstocked farmers who had no other choice in doing so. Keep up the good work mate 👍

[@tadhgface]

Your documentaries brought me here, your camping/hiking videos kept me here

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks! 🙂 was worried people wouldn’t watch my other videos if they came here from the docs

[@pdxjill]

I was brought to your videos through the Running Channel but I stayed because of the fantastic stories you tell, the amazing videography, and your wit. I'm so glad that you decided to continue investing in your KZbin channel - your vids bring me joy and wonder every week. Thank you, from the Pacific Coast of Oregon. ♥

[@ChristenetteVanNiekerk]

I've just started watching your videos today, and I absolutely love them. I literally sat on the couch binge-watching them with my parents. Your channel is extremely underrated, and I genuinely hope that you see some more growth, because you definitely deserve it. Sending you good vibes from New-Zealand 💚

[@lntkernow]

One of the best outdoors channels there is 🙌🏻❤️

[@Aaarrrrrttt]

Me too actually! I found this channel today and I've enjoyed watching it so much!

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks so much Christine! 🙂 always tried to make my videos so anyone can watch them so love your comment. Some day I’ll make it to Middle Earth 😁

[@paulkennedy5021]

You talk about the money and the value of what you do but it obviously was never about the money, if it had you would have quit years ago. You do it because you want to share the pleasure of your hobbies and that is such a valuable thing to share with people. You inspire, motivate, inform and entertain and you do it without all the toxicity and sneering and exploitation that characterises most of mainstream “entertainment”. You and your videos are extremely valuable.

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks Paul 🙂

[@katherinebe]

Hiya! I’m one of those who you bring joy to. I live in the states and it’s very stressful here right now so yes, watching your videos relieves some of that stress. I do agree, your storytelling abilities, and your honesty I do like a lot. I also like it when you drag your sister along. I wish I had a relationship with my brother like that. I don’t, at all but like it when I see other siblings have positive and supportive interactions. And I love seeing Ireland and Scotland through your lens. Although I’m a mutt of an American I do have a lot of Scots-Irish blood. I’m drawn to that area of the world like a sirens song. I’ve only been watching you for about 4 months now but hope you keep inspired to continue your channel. You are delightful. Thank you for being here.

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks for watching Katherine 🙂 Video about Scotland coming soon...

[@Glownlight]

Congrats on 6 years and your progress. I have been with you since the early years. I didn’t realize that till now. How time flys. You are my go-to KZbinr because you are honest and unique. Your style is your own and I really appreciate that. I have been unsubscribing lately to other because they are so much the same as other channels. Why watch the same thing multiple times. You and Scotty’s gone walkabout is what keeps me on youtube.

[@madmickomm1885]

You’ve been knocking it out of the park with your videos recently. Very much appreciated!

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks. I'd like to say it was all planned but sometimes I've been totally surprised by which videos were popular. Although I am being more strategic these days

[@Reverendshot777]

Stephen, I've recently been diagnosed with bigh blood pressure and high cholesterol mainly due to a crappy diet and sedentary lifestyle after being ill from covid and working from home. Considering I have kids and a wife I would like to stay around for, I've made significant changes in the last three weeks. Coincidentally, I discovered your videos about three weeks ago, and they have absolutely reinvigorated my passion for getting outdoors, pushing myself, getting exposed to the environments. Your videos are a beautiful exposure to our wee country and beyond, and Im sure I'm not the only one who has been incredibly inspired by the things you do and places you show. Weshouldd all be very grateful for content like this. It has so much more value than 99% of the nonsense out there.

[@StephenJReid]

First of all. Good for you in deciding to make a change, I'm delighted you've taken that step as it's the hardest one. I know a tiny bit how you feel. My fitness took a hit after covid, I don't think my breathing ever fully recovered and I've needed an inhaler on an off since. I always had a bit of asthma but it seemed to make it worse. Made me stop running for a long time and it was tough getting going again. Keep getting out there and keep moving forward. No one ever regrets going outside when they don't want to.

[@JosephineG101]

Your blue-green algae was amazing and something that was a conversation-opener more than once. Thank you for commitment.

[@grimmhaven]

I've recently stumbled upon your channel due to the algae documentary. I love the vibe of your videos. The perfect Sunday morning "show" ,so to say, for me. It gives me immense nostalgia when there were still good travel shows on the television. Long story short, I love your videos and the person that is you is also very enjoyable to watch. Keep it up on your own pace, keep it fun for yourself!

[@StephenJReid]

Oh I’m glad you’re watching after the algae video. I was worried people would be expecting all my other videos to be similar 🙂

[@grimmhaven]

@@StephenJReid Not at all, it was a pleasant surprise!

[@TheJoshuaPeg]

This is great to see Stephen. Been watching you since you first collabed with Paul Messner. I’m earlier on in my KZbin journey (the “valley of despair” where growth feels impossible 😅), but seeing someone like yourself do so well gives me hope that good channels can still break through. Keep it up mate 👌🏼

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks Joshua. Your in photography? I think that’s similar to the outdoors. Lots of people with channels doing both. It’s figuring out what will let you break out and keep making good videos.

[@Karl_with_a_K]

I was following a bunch of wild campers in England, and then your channel popped up. You are good craic and the content is great 👍 a win for us.

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks Karl 🙂

[@theadventurepixie]

Great tips. I like simple videos like this; it is like chatting with a mate.

[@feargusc]

Thank You Stephen for putting out videos like this (and your main content is awesome as well). Your honest discussions about what it's really like as a creator on youtube provides a sober and realistic account of what to expect for those of us who are in the relatively early stages. Well done for getting where you are to date - you've clearly worked really hard for it :)

[@BaurJoe]

Thanks for the behind-the-scenes look! I’m just now devoting more time/energy to KZbin without putting all my eggs in that basket. So always appreciate an honest peek behind the curtain that KZbin, for the most part, isn’t a life-changing gig.

[@StephenJReid]

Definitely a wise thing to do! Glad you enjoyed the video

[@janosvaluska5545]

Like a lot of people, I found your channel through the algae video, but I've stuck around because the sincerity of that video is consistent for the rest of your content. A lot of youtubers these days try to distil things into perfection all the time and it feels a bit uncanny, whereas you feel like a real person just talking about the stuff you're passionate about. A lot of people don't realise how scary and hard it is to make things and expose yourself on the internet, whether it's as a musician, writer, documentary maker or just about anything else. Takes a strong will to persevere as long as you have without getting jaded or closing your mind off. Genuinely mate, glad you're doing well with this, looking forward to whatever it is you do next.

[@StephenJReid]

Perfection is boring and also somewhat unnatural. We are all works in progress, best to reflect that. Oh I've gotten jaded at times but it doesn't help. Thanks for watching!

[@garybutcher4585]

You took the Biolite campstove seriously and explained it well - more than most creators on KZbin. Your humour, optimism, and an open mind come across in your best videos.

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks Gary! 🙂 and thanks for watching

[@agradoville]

Thought I’d post again without the link to the drawing. These days you can’t tell what is spam and what isn’t. Love your videos and wanted you to know they bring peaceful scenery and always a laugh or 3. Hi, sheep!! Keep doing YOU!

[@StephenJReid]

🙂 thank you

[@Chilternwildcamper]

I love your camping and hiking videos. You have a spark and fun energy the others don't have.

[@StephenJReid]

Thank you for watching! 🙂

[@bartburza7992]

Hi Stephen, I've been watching your videos for two years and I really like your sense of humor and the stories you are telling.I am also a runner, but love your documents that you have published. Wish you all the best!

[@StephenJReid]

Thank you! 🙂

[@ConorCasey-m9r]

Genuinely my new favourite channel on here. It's great to see someone locally doing do well on here. Onwards and upwards Stephen! Subbed to your Patreon too 👍

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks so much Conor 🙂

[@ClemThomas-on4db]

Your channel as helped me take my mind of some tough times and I wouldn't miss a video when I follow your adventures it's like being with a friend definitely one of the best on KZbin

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks! I hope things are better now

[@TessCSWU]

So, I think one of the reasons of you getting more views (apart from the storytelling... an honesty and a certain vulnerability, which appeals to a lot of people) is also the visual quality of your videos. (And I might have mentioned that part in a comment before.) I am glad you are making videos, sharing the good - and bad, and mostly, great visuals. And I am looking forward to that bike packing trip, especially considering I am planning on something similar really soon. Enjoy!

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks! 🙂 I enjoy the craft of filmmaking nearly as much as the adventure. There' s a satisfaction in being able to capture the feeling of a landscape

[@EspenJohan]

Stephen, I have been following your channel for about 1 year. Possibly a little longer. I like your style, humor. Good storytelling and good information. I've been doing KZbin for a few years now, I've seen the growth in the last year. Am a bit more serious now and learning more and more. I never copied anyone's style, just made small adjustments here and there. You are a good guy Stephen

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks for watching Johan 🙂keep going!

[@vk3wmd]

Great video, I really like the way you managed to chat about your challenges without too much editing. Thats tough but I reckon you nailed it. Thanks

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks. I tried to think about all the points before hand so I wouldn't have to edit as much

[@jamesfwpurdyx]

Phew, I was worried then that you were closing down. I found your channel yesterday, enjoyed the video (the Rab hooped bivvy) and subscribed thinking I'd catch up. Glad to hear you'll be continuing.

[@StephenJReid]

Welcome aboard 🙂

[@JustPickOneUK]

Thank you for this video. I was shown this video because I'm trying to learn how to grow on KZbin and this video fits the algorithm. This is a lovely, simple, candid video showing reality and seems so honest and genuine which the big advice style videos I've seen are not like this at all. Your advice is valuable and will help me out. You have helped me today so thank you ❤

[@StephenJReid]

My pleasure, glad it helped 🙂

[@iainpaton1865]

Hi friend keep the great work up and please keep the great videos coming. 😊From Scotland

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks Iain 🙂 Keep an eye out, might be some Scotland videos appearing in a couple of weeks

[@jinkiescoob]

I got into trail running and enjoying the Mourne Mountains this year because of you. In April I couldn’t walk a mile without blisters and now I’m heading out and doing the Seven Sevens and the Mourne Wall in one day. You have been quite inspiring.

[@StephenJReid]

that's amazing! I seriously don't think I could even do the Mourne wall in one day currently, I've let my mountain training slide. proud of ya! 🙂

[@SwedishChef1977]

Literally just found your channel and I love this video and your honest comments. The "Freedom isn't free" notion is so accurate in so many ways. I don't want to get too boringly philosophical about it, but being able to live a life in TRUE freedom is something very very rare in today's society. We can be free in the sense of that we can work towards doing more of the things we enjoy in life, but we're still bound to different obligations, family-obligations or otherwise. Anyway, off to watch more of your content! :) Take care and have a nice day!

[@StephenJReid]

🙂

[@RoadReality]

Story-telling, comedy, visually stunning videos... that's why I'm still here! Glad to see you still at it, and I love the roadmap moving forward.

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks for sticking around! 🙂

[@Philduncan75]

Lisburn lad in exile in London here. I love living vicariously through your content Stephen. The extra effort in the recent videos is apparent in the quality. Always a highlight when you pop up in my feed, keep up the good work!

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks Phil! 🙂

[@jennic1684]

I've thought, ever since discovering your channel, that it deserves so much more love and hype than it gets. I thoroughly enjoy all your videos. I was initially drawn by your running videos which are my favourites (I am a runner of 2.5 years, prefer trails, and also completed my first Ultra this year) but also find myself watching all uour content. Just wanted to say thank you 😊

[@princebubble5289]

I found your channel through that Midge video (thanks algorithm) 😆. Your videos really do bring me happiness with the beautiful shots of Northern Ireland & Scotland and of course your humour. I recently showed my 9yo son the Fart Machine video. He LOVED that and you now have a new fan….who wants to go wild camping…probably with a fart machine. All the best from South East England - keep doing what makes you happy X

[@peter11612]

KZbin recommended your tallest mountain in ireland video, loved the story telling aspect of that video and subscribed. Next I saw your lough video posted in our group chat, said how I recently seen your videos. Keep it up Stephen you've got it cracked, keep up the story telling, walking, love it!

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks Peter 🙂

[@muskadobbit]

It’s always great to spend some time with you. Thanks for all your work.

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks for spending time to watch 🙂

[@Rationalskeptic49]

Your videos are the reason I got back into running. Just completed my first 10K yesterday, which for someone in their 60s I thought would never happen again. So thank you, Stephen, for all your hard work, excellent content and inspiration. My only advice is to keep doing it if it makes you happy, whether that's KZbin or client work

[@StephenJReid]

Brilliant, delighted for you! I'm also at a place currently where I'm trying to get back to enjoying running more. I lost the joy of it a bit over the last couple of years

[@RichardTongeman]

The loch Erne video is the best outdoor video I’ve seen all year, very well researched and glad it was reported by a local. I’d have expected you to make 10x the amount on that video.

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks Richard 🙂

[@SensatiousHiatus]

This is good advice man, thanks for sharing your experience. Cheers from Tennessee, USA

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks for watching!

[@markalexander5275]

Have loved watching your videos and seeing you and your channel grow and develop over these six years. See you on the trials sometime!

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks Mark! 🙂

[@Neohurricane]

I've been watching your vids for the last couple of years (I think) and what I've always enjoyed is the quality of your film making and the humour you inject into them. I also say hello to agricultural animals whilst hiking which is your fault too 😂

[@OMGitshimitis]

You said how research was so important. Well that's what got me to subscribe on the first video I watched, the algae one. I have been so impressed by the amount of planning and number of sources you draw from along with the general cinematography, well done for making it to 6 years

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks! Hopefully you enjoy my other less researched videos as well. 🙂 but I do have a list of about 5 future videos which are going to be around bigger topics.

[@IvanDP1967]

Very well put Stephen, can fully understand your reasoning. Like most of the youtubers I follow, your biggest talent is that you are such a natural, which makes watching (no matter what the subject) a real pleasure. Many thanks from one very grateful subscriber.

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks Ivan, I'm very grateful you are a subscriber 🙂

[@sobreaver]

Glad someone is able to live a great situation like this.

[@alanrobertson5497]

Some great insight from your experience on KZbin. I love watching your channel. Thank you.❤❤. Your channel is now coming up in my news feed.

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks for watching Alan 🙂

[@RichardTongeman]

I think I came across the tiny tent video first. Probably what makes it interesting is that it’s extremeness on the spectrum of things

[@snoop2477]

Your overthinking it. More disco lights dancing in the tent to techno. But seriously, you crack me up. Keep having fun and bring the humour. The production quality is of course top shelf!

[@StephenJReid]

Haha, that part of that video actually lost me viewers 🙈🤣

[@nigelmcardle4112]

Interesting to hear your journey on utube Stephen, I m just delighted thats its working so well for you now, I look forward each week to your videos, they make me laugh and inspire me too!

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks Nigel 🙂

[@judithrussell9162]

Firstly, I'm one of the people who finds happiness in your videos, but also I appreciate the video essays. Good luck with any changes you make, I'll be around to watch them. You deserve the increase in subs.

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks Judith 🙂 onwards! 😁

[@backroadtourist]

My channel is new and your outlook is very helpful. Obviously as a new channel it don’t get many views but the amount of work it take you deserve all the credit

[@StephenJReid]

you're welcome!

[@NatureandWildlife1978]

As an fellow Irish youtuber, I came across your content and love it, thanks for posting this video , channels like yours really inspire me to keep moving and coming up with ideas for my content ❤❤

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks! 😊

[@tomfenn7149]

6 years of your beautiful madness? I've loved every second of them! (BTW, I would like to support you properly via your patreon, but my eldest went to university 2 years back, and now my youngest starts in Oct. I've got to find a full time job! Your videos Stephen, are all so inspirational and help me from going completely mad! So please hold out for a little longer. :) )

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks Tom 🙂 and just watching is support enough! Your family are a universe more important than my channel.

[@Lysemoselund]

Thanks for sharing. Inspiring! I’v been following you on and off for years, and you inspire me in a totally different niche.

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks 🙂 What’s your niche?

[@Lysemoselund]

@@StephenJReid I'm in the wannabee handy man buying old farm ruin with the illusion of renovating everything himself, using only his skills as an office worker niche. The Danish branch.

[@Skye160679]

I only started watching your videos recently. I neither run nor hike very much, only on holidays here and there a tiny bit...but I enjoy your content for your humour and the stories you've told recently. I might not watch all your videos, but I'll continue to check in regularly. 😊

[@StephenJReid]

thanks Skye 🙂

[@SVFresh2Salty]

Been watching for about 5 years. This was an awesome video and interesting to the backstory of a successful KZbin channel. I’ve always loved the sense of humor and the story telling it out of this world. Great video Stephen !

[@StephenJReid]

And thanks for sticking around so long! Did you change your username?

[@SVFresh2Salty]

@@StephenJReid we did. Wanted to change our channel name to the name of the boat.

[@HillPhantom]

Great advice, been at it for 3 years, and I can't imagine even getting to a space its full time. I don't think KZbin does a great job of paying, and as you know, the amount of time versus pay, ends up being a 1 dollar per hour job or if like me a negative $5 per hour lol. I have been watching you grow for years, someone I look up to, so I greatly appreciate the insight. One million views mate, and only 2.5, seems to be to be a bit unbalanced. I am just now trying to come to grips with sponsorships, its so icky but you are right, no way to make it work, without them. Appreciate you opening up and thinking about the "other values" to this game. Keep up the good work mate. Cheers.

[@StephenJReid]

my current way of approaching sponsorships is to try and use brands that make products I'm already using and are outdoors related. That way I can have multiple sponsors per video and incorporate them naturally. Outdoor brands don't have the same budget as VPNs and website building tools so having multiple sponsors per video works for everyone. That's my theory anyway. But there's no shame in it. No one complains that George Clooney promotes a coffee machine he is highly unlikely to actual use.

[@soletrail]

Some hard hitting truths there for creators. Ever think that you are neglecting other life because of the channel? You mentioned the sacrifices and the endless hours that people pour into content creating is rewarding but absolutely stress filled.. you gotta love what you are doing. Some great advice man. Thanks for that. Would make you wonder if it is worth it. Again.. you gotta love it. Thanks for the honesty man. Much appreciated 👍

[@StephenJReid]

There’s 100% a risk of that. I’ve been careful to protect my weekends for that reason, I want to be free and around for my wife and when friends and family are doing things and also I’m involved in a church. There are more important things than growing a channel. I know people who have been publishing as much as I have for the same time and it just doesn’t seem to be going anywhere for them and I know they are sacrificing things for the channel. At some point it’s not worth it. It’s a hard truth. That’s why I made the decision this year to invest in the course and I was fully prepared to be told that the channel didn’t really have potential and I would have quit. I also am not assuming my channel will continue to grow. I’m invested in it but I’ll walk away if/when the cost is too high.

[@DavidMurray1]

Love your videos Stephen, and the honesty of the video. I've been following you for a while and delighted to see your success over the past year. Congrats

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks David! 🙂

[@tammywright6636]

I came for the WHW videos and stayed because I dig watching your content. Plus you wear Vivobarefoot boots and you live in my favorite country. Oh, you also taught me how to use trekking poles properly. 😊

[@StephenJReid]

😁 thanks and you're welcome!

[@borschbandit]

Thank you for making this Stephen, I'm a Belfast based content creator just finishing my first year of Tik Tok/ KZbin/ Instagram, and this information isn't just highly relatable, but also highly informative and beneficial. Good on you for sharing this to help others as well.

[@StephenJReid]

You're welcome 🙂 Definitely some different things apply when it comes to short form video but a lot of overlap too

[@Hikingjoe383]

Very honest video. Great advice, thank you.

[@cathye.9659]

I love the stories and history of Ireland. I’m learning so much. And you make me happy too! I love seeing the beautiful rugged nature in Ireland. I keep watching every week.

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks Cathy

[@Ourathe7thcolumn]

Just discovered your channel and it's fantastic bro, great to see a Norn Iron lad do well!! Love to see a follow up vid on the blue green algae ie what's other countries doing about this problem.... what are the solutions etc etc ..... keep lit my guy

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks! I do want to do a follow up video but I'm going to leave it for a while until I can get more information about what is being done here too.

[@Ourathe7thcolumn]

@@StephenJReid thanks, you're first video was excellent, I'm glad you're tackling this issue and I'm pretty sure the information you'll bring to the subject will be way more helpful than those muppets up on the hill, keep up the great work bro 🙏

[@themullerfiles]

Fair points, thanks for sharing, and keep on being you!

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks 🙂

[@whereverwewander]

My heart nearly shattered, thinking you were quitting! We love watching you week in week out! Your content is always inspiring/educational, and you're such a natural! Never doubt yourself! Oh ans you're funny too! Haha can't wait for the bike packing!

[@StephenJReid]

Sorry to scare you! 😂 thanks for watching. I’m off to start packing the bike

[@lroc6272]

Thanks

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks for watching 🙂

[@RamblingOn]

All of your content speaks for itself because of the excellent quality and the hard work that you put in. I reckon that regardless of how good your videos are, the main reason your videos help people is because of you and your personailty. You are the reason that people stay and watch each upload, the stories you tell might just help them to find you. I wish you all the very best of luck in the future. It's so nice to see good people doing well in life. Take her handy 🍀

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks 🙂 I’ll keeep rambling on 😁

[@snifferdog]

Stephen, I've only recently stumbled across your channel (the Carrauntoohil one showed up in my feed) and I'm now gradually making my way through the others. They're consistently excellent and I hope you continue to make them well into the future. I just hope you don't get burned out in the way that other KZbinrs seem to have been. I'd rather see fewer videos from you than to have you quit altogether. I once heard a successful blogger describe it as "the hungry child" who he needs to keep feeding. I'm quite a bit older than you and I haven't climbed many mountains, so it's great to see somebody else do the work so I can admire the view 🙂

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks 🙂 I'm slowly finding that balance and I take proper breaks now. I used to always try and make videos even on holiday, this year I didn't touch a camera for two weeks.

[@fishsticks428]

Amazing video on the Lough Neagh i hope you keep posting that similar type of content or follow the story :)

[@Bokooda]

Well done on your continuing success. Your humour, humility and passion for being outside and the area you live in always come across on your videos. As long as KZbinrs keep it interesting, then people will keep watching. You're wise not to stake everything on YT earnings, as when the time suits them, Google will change the goalposts again as they have in the past. 🙏

[@StephenJReid]

Thank you!

[@LillySchwartz]

Oh, I've been following your channel for a good long while, five years at least since that's when I started my own channel. I have been watching your recent successes with a smile on my face, because I thought it was about time! I've been far less consistent than you, but made it to almost 10K subs now with only about 70 videos. Of course not with those kinda views though! My most watched vid got around 85K views and took me a year to make. It did bring me a good chunk of album sales though, so it did end up covering some of my equipment costs just through the channel growth it brought me. Consistency is my big problem because of your Freedom isn't free point. I usually use KZbin to document my other activities, photography, music etc so those activities are my main focus and I won't compromise them just to get a consistent upload schedule going. I chip away at it though and I think I know now how I can approach something of a more sustainable rhythm. Five years of YT and still haven't figured this out 😅

[@StephenJReid]

Glad you're still here Lilly! 🙂 No Small Creator has a great legacy. Great you're still publishing videos . Checking out your album on band camp, it's class! So far very relaxing, reminds me of a walk in a dark damp forest in late autumn.

[@LillySchwartz]

@@StephenJReid Thank you so much! I think No Small Creator was very helpful for the mindset of it and learning from each other, I really loved that group! The music was such a random KZbin thing. I couldn't find background music I liked for my photography videos, so I started making my own again. Then people started asking for albums and my second album (hypnagogia) got a shoutout from one of my favourite musicians, so that was really cool. Now I have more of a music audience than a photography audience and have no idea how that even happened 🤣 The dark damp forest in late autumn is precisely the vibe I was going for! Careful though, the forest definitely gets darker as the walk goes on, strange creatures appear, etc. 👻

[@domquigley7890]

Well done Stephen you've got a great presenting style, lighthearted, never self important and always engaging and informative 👏👏👏

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks 🙂

[@northwestwalking]

Knowing that you feel weird that your videos make me feel happy, makes me happy 😉 On a serious note, your channel has been a lot of fun to watch and keeps getting better and better. Cheers!

[@StephenJReid]

Aha now I feel weird that you feel happy that I feel weird because you feel happy 🤣

[@shayquinn572]

Stephen your videos put a smile on my face...tanx you are an inspiration, your content is top notch ....stay strong and do what makes you happy and don't wreck your head worrying about numbers.

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks Shay! 🙂

[@StephenJReid]

@@shayquinn572 really appreciate this support! Got lots of idea for future videos so watch this space 🙂

[@Rekeaki]

I’m one of the recent brand new subscribers and it wasn’t until you said it, but the story telling (whether historical or current) was part of why I didn’t just watch one video and never come back. I watch camping videos only occasionally and usually only because it has something unusual about it. I am not a camper (I know, why am I here? lol) so while I find purely camping videos interesting as well, they are less interesting to me than the docos and stories COMBINED with camping. I’m Australian and I grew up absolutely loving a TV show called “Bush tucker man” who was all around a man who travelled into the remote parts of australia looking for native “bush” foods on behalf of the Australian army (so they can use the intel to survive longer than an enemy in our remote areas). The big thing I loved about that show was that the host included a lot of camping but also with a super strong focus on stories, mostly historical, but also about the indigenous people of australia. Your channel gave me hints of that show from oh so long ago. I worked then, it works now ❤ I look forward to seeing what you make from now on

[@toberwine]

I’ve enjoyed seeing my second home where I lived for 22 years - rural North Antrim on screen (and hearing such a familiar accent) ❤

[@greyhikes5236]

Bless you Stephen, well deserved on your channel, so happy its growing because it means we get to have a laugh every week you upload. It's great, entertaining stuff! Your personality is the one factor me and the Mrs keeps us coming back! Long may it last. 1 million views I get excited if get 300 😂

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks for watching, both of you! 🙂

[@fittappintrails8731]

Congratulations in reaching a position where you could make a living from KZbin. Respect for retaining your client business. One of the issues Messner missed was the lack of social interaction when he went full time youtube. Diversifying your offerings is what keeps folk coming back. This is what Messner has done, and yourself with the documentary style format you have adopted. I doubt I will ever reach that stage as life has taken me in a different direction but more power to your elbow. Atb.

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks! It’s a difficult transition when a channel gains a lot of growth because you suddenly have a lot more things to think about and a lot more distractions. A lot more people want things from you too which can lead to reducing the social side of things. All a learning experience

[@MarksShrimpTanks]

I love your content, I might not watch every single video but I enjoy sitting down in front of the big TV and watching you, I think its because I want to do more of what you do myself but I don't always have the time, You mentioned something about the tiny tent video taking off and I know why, Ive always wanted to go camping with the smallest shelter possible while being comfortable and bug free, lots of people will feel the same, by the way I like your story telling and I think you have massive scope for doing more of it on your channel.... even stuff like "what happened to x" while your sat in the tent in the dark with the touch under your chin would get mullions of views, you could probably just pitch in your garden for those. 🤣

[@StephenJReid]

😂 sitting in my back yard in my tent telling ghost stories. I do plan to mix those videos up with adventures. Just trying to figure out the formula.

[@thenextadventure8079]

Such an honest video. We’ve been watching your videos for a few years now and they’ve been brilliant, funny and just so entertaining. Very interesting to learn how you’ve developed the channel. We love the outdoors like you and started our outdoors channel to show our friends and family what we we’ve been enjoying for years - trying to encourage people to get out or bring the outdoors indoors to those that can’t. Having retired now we continue to film and share…on our next adventure. Any tips for older KZbinrs trying to grow their channel ? Congratulations on your 6 year anniversary. Hope you didn’t have too damp s bottom at the end of filming this one. 😊

[@amcoutdoors]

Brilliant seeing local people doing well in general but from KZbin, it feels a bit more special 🎉 Well done Stephen

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks 🙂 Always great when loc people are watching too!

[@JOKKMOKKGUIDERNA]

Thanks for a very interesting video! /Matti in Jokkmokk

[@TBCamping]

Thank for for the great advice,.just discovered your KZbin there a minute ago. Also, refreshing to hear an accwnt from back home!

[@StephenJReid]

Welcome aboard! 😃

[@Wolty-s9n]

Thanks for your work Stephen!

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks for watching 🙂

[@allwhowanderarenotlost]

Thanks for your videos. I find them informative and often inspirational. One or two of them have changed what I do and how I do it when I’m in the outdoors. Weaving the thread of a story through an activity can certainly make it more engaging but I wouldn’t underestimate some of the shorter, simpler, more functional videos (e.g. views on equipment). I think I found your channel through one of those, helped me make a decision and here I am now watching a man on a soggy stump and writing a verbose comment.

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks! I do mean to make more equipment videos. They are a lot less time consuming than some of my videos. But not loads, don’t want to become a shopping. Channel

[@INSOLESandLACES]

The story about the water quality knocked it out of the park and you fully deserve the 1.1M watches. Big congratulations. Making videos, talking to camera isn't easy. Tried it once and it was awful, obviously it wasn't published.

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks 🙂 I also have some videos talking to camera I shot and never published. It's so painful at the start and takes a long time to get used to.

[@devscally]

Hi Stephen. Iv only recently found your channel while looking for reviews on the Vivo Barefoot boots. And honestly, I don't know why the algorithm never suggested you before. Your content is right up my alley. In a way, I'm a little pissed to only be finding you so late, but on the flip side, I now have a huge back catalogue to get through. I completely agree with your perspective here. Iv followed so many creators on KZbin over the years that have become obsessive about their content and eventually the quality of their videos goes through the floor. Making videos for the sake of it, with very little thought. What I like about your channel is that you are a real person, with real problems, the same as all of us. You never try to be above your viewers and there is an air of truth and honest in your videos. So I say, do whatever suits you. Take time for yourself and don't rise to the masses. If you miss a week here or there, what harm? Don't sacrifice quality for quantity.

[@dogdadoutdoors]

Funnily enough, I shot a video with pretty much similar taking stock and conclusions around the need to incorporate stories yesterday. Agree on the whole full-time thing, the other aspect of that is once its full-time you HAVE to do it, and then that can suck the fun right out of it. I was like that with wedding photography, loved the photography aspect, but there came a point just never wanted to see another White dress. Thanks for being honest about length of time you've been at it and how your progress has only come relatively recently. I've just been at it about 2 years and just 5k subscribers, but I have heard 6 to 7 years to build something substantial isn't unusual and that helps to keep driving forward.

[@StephenJReid]

yeah 5-10 years to build a successful channel is what I've been working off. When I started looking at it that way around year 4 it really changed my approach as previously every time I published a video I. was expecting it to be "the one" that would make the channel blow up. The reality is that rarely happens. Keep going!

[@iwasapirateonce1639]

Just want to say Stephen I think your investigative and documentary/history style videos have really hit it out of the park this year so far. Especially your videos on the environmental issues that Ireland is facing, which is a topic very few people cover.

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks 🙂 I have a few more similar type videos planned, maybe spread a few out through the year.

[@cs-es2ye]

First I want to tell you that I really love your videos and appreciate what you do, they help to break out of everyone's own narrow world. You show how you can experience a lot of the nature that surrounds us with little effort and that it is important to protect and appreciate this. Please keep it up.

[@Preferred_Ari]

Just an opinion from a relatively recent subscriber(Just checked, probably around 11 days.), I enjoy what you put out and view them as little peeks into your life which you are willing to share with the rest of the world. And I honestly prefer it that way, I like to listen to what people want to say when they are ready. And it is my belief that it is the happiness that people genuinely feel and thereby give off from the way they lead their lives that manages to affect me and other people positively.

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks for this Ari. Videos are definitely a bit of window into peoples lives. you don't see everything but for a time you get to spend time looking through the glass.

[@andrewhickton3189]

Congratulations on six years. Really enjoy your honesty & intelligence with your videos.

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks Andrew 🙂

[@thepeakdistrictviking]

Great stuff and really useful to us budding youtubers. Good to see some honesty and integrity. Keep up the good work!

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks. Keep going ! 🙂

[@michaelhooley]

I’ve been following your channel for a few years; I think ultimately, the reason I’ve always watched is you. The video quality has gone up for sure and the narrative storytelling has gone up hugely, but I tune in for you. You’ve got this wonderful balance of sincerity and being really good craic. Thanks for doing what you do and I hope your successes continue!!

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks Michael 🙂 And thanks for sticking around so long!

[@SheelaghDaly]

Thanks for sharing your experiences! I have followed you for quite a few years now, and as a fellow creator, I find your videos delightful to watch, and your consistency inspiring. Thanks for being so honest and for sharing your outdoor adventures!

[@MarvinofMars]

Well done Stephen, congrats on on the channels success.

[@DillonOsborne]

Class Stephen 👌🤙 incredible work, dedication to the craft and well deserved

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks so much Dillon 🙂 NIBBLEESSSS!

[@DroningaboutIreland]

Great video Stephen, love your openness and honesty, I first came across your channel when the first Insta360 Go came out, not sure when that was and I've really enjoyed your content ever since, I don't camp or trail run but do enjoy the odd hike, especially in the Mournes, but I watch all your stuff and what keeps me coming back is something you touched on in the video, your content makes me happy, it makes me think 'i can do that' or 'i can go there', but ultimately it's how you come across, you seem a genuinely heart warming guy who loves what he does and it comes across in your work, hopefully you continue on KZbin for a long time and as you say maybe one day I'll meet you in the trail's.

[@StephenJReid]

Thanks so much 🙂 you’ve been here a while then, I think that might have been close to 6years ago. It was one my first videos that got good views. Glad you hung around for the other videos 🙂

[@evachjourney]

You’ve just answer my question….what a synchronicity 😅 I’ve just had a talk with my partner today as I am trying grow my channel or come back to it after years break and I recognise that people want certain content, but I don’t really want to do that as there’s tones of people out there doing it already…I know what’s the story I want to say and even if that makes some people leave or not subscribe that is okay….i do believe I will attract the right audience eventually 😊 so hearing you saying this today just confirmed for me I’m on the right track 😄 I am and always believed in authentic as anything else sort of transmits to people and ultimately subconsciously they will know it’s fake and that’s just not me or something I’d like to do…thank you! I really enjoyed this video.

[@StephenJReid]

Glad you found it useful 🙂 keep going.