I quit Linus Tech Tips.

If you are struggling to afford food, please go to a food bank.
If you are financially stable, please donate (money, NOT food!) to a food bank.
www.google.com...
Yesterday was my last day at Linus Media Group. It's the end of one chapter in my life, and the start of another.

[@LinusTechTips]

Thanks for all the memories, Taran. It'll never be the same here without you, but I'm so excited to see what the next chapter holds for you :') - LS

[@nendemenne6686]

How's the toilet paper, Linus?

[@maxmyzer9172]

so sad

[@raviprakash139]

We will miss him on channel super fun. I would love to see him in any video as a wild card entry someday.

[@reloadfast]

So many mixed feelings. I'm so sad (and shocked!) that Taran is leaving, and at the same time so happy for him. Please LS, make Taran a guest host if the opportunity comes!

[@jonothan]

Very emotional, love Taran

[@mrnathan.m4646]

This probably won’t get seen much, but Taran helped me out with a dissertation last year. I asked the man a few questions about editing and he sent basically an entire essay’s worth of answers back - and in part thanks to him, I passed with first class honours. Thank you Taran.

[@tomhubbard8510]

That's awesome! Congrats too!

[@defective7985]

He seems like such a genuine guy. Well done on your dissertation!

[@huhmz]

This is almost too wholesome. I think that anybody who can claim Taran is their friend has a very kind man in their life who will undoubtedly be part of some of the big events in life where you either celebrate with him or owe him a lot of gratitude.

[@Lucidbkeo]

That's awesome man. Taran's truly a badass

[@Hyatice]

I had an issue with my mouse which basically boiled down to: I couldn't rebind the buttons on the mouse without the software running, and the software was using a *crazy* amount of CPU. On a device that idles at as little as 0.65W, it would idle at 6+W. In gaming, simply having that software open would take 5-10% off my FPS. Having watched Taran's "how I turned four keyboards into several hundred hotkeys" tutorial, I figured, if *anyone* could point me in the right direction for remapping a fucking button without eating into my resources, it was him. So, on a whim, I emailed him. He replied within a day, and he did, absolutely, point me in the right direction. His answer was super thought out, gave me all the tools I needed to find the end answer, and to top it all off he was super annoyed at my mouse on my behalf. Ultimately, I wasn't able to resolve it, as those extra buttons on the mouse somehow sent *no* signal to the computer without the software running. I love this guy.

[@senshai1267]

Bruh the workculture is open and the leaving employee talks about his future plans , and that’s something I can truly admire

[@798Muchoman]

Find a job like that, it's great. My last job, everyone knew it was a job, everyone knew it wasn't a lifetime job, everyone talked about their future plans.

[@MementoMori-xx5qo]

Apart from the scummy contract that tells employees that they cannot discuss their pay.

[@MyNamesHunter75]

@@MementoMori-xx5qo that's fairly standard especially in a job with loads of different roles some editiors don't just edit they write and host as well but for a lot of jobs that's fairly standard

[@Kelthor85]

Lol when I resigned from my workplace they didn't even acknowledge receiving the resignation! Quite the contrast.

[@TheSpitfire2207]

@@MyNamesHunter75 fairly standard only in the US

[@Nethezbet]

I never know what to expect with "I quit" videos, but I am really glad I watched this one. Awesome story.

[@iamdihan]

same and not what i expected at all. now im here in tears! what a story

[@areo13]

For a man that likes his privacy, this was one hell of an honest story. Thank you Taran for everything. I wish you and your significant other the best.

[@buddinglearner7085]

heehehe

[@Jakobe_Beef]

If leaving employees are able to open up about their next steps in front of everyone, it's really clear how good a working culture they built at LTT. Wishing you best of luck!

[@deltamack]

True.

[@ButteredCatDad]

I really want to give this a thumbs up but its at 666 and dont want to ruin it

[@lukecummins5371]

Is this not common in the USA? Why would employers not want you telling people about your next steps?

[@MindBlowerWTF]

@@lukecummins5371 "fuck this stupid fucking job, I'm going to X and they will pay me nearly twice as much!"

[@SirYodaJedi]

@@lukecummins5371 this is Canada

[@matthazle8879]

It is incredibly strong for someone to admit their past struggles and poverty in front of their coworkers/peers. I wish you all the best and hope you continue to succeed in life.

[@johnddonnet5151]

Dude, even Alex Harmozi cried when telling how he had to sleep on the floor, I've been there also, just remembering it makes me very sad

[@user-kq1zh4io7o]

That shit was just fucking cringe

[@thim0]

you can tell Linus is a lovely and caring guy. It makes me appreciate the channel even more.

[@DutchGuyMike]

Hell yes!

[@CelestiRalice]

Yes and no. He isn't bad but his typical jewish selfish tendencies do creep up. Even in this video when he was about to be gifted his mind went blank and focused on the gift. It took him a little bit more to realize wtf is actually going on. Much more then an actual normal person would realize. As for the content itself most of it it's clickbait and irrelevant information. Even bias at most. Huff and puff drama over nothing. For another example. It's sad to see a grown man still believing how PC can be used for coherent gaming. When you are brainwashed all your life you tend to live inside delusions. I mean he even built his channel and business on this alone. Selling gimmicks and agendas. And when you are given money, attention and free stuff this further builds this very same flawed ego. That you start believing in lies not just selling them.

[@neepers]

You have this multimillionaire guy beside another kid who has to steal toilet paper. Sorry, I don't count any multimillionaire a good guy who is nice until he has to share his own money. Linus could have put him up in an apartment for years for pocket change.

[@DutchGuyMike]

@@neepers You are missing the point, he didn't tell Linus any of this. And if he did so I am sure Linus would be more than willing to help, that is the whole point of it - Linus did not know he was doing so bad. You are talking out of your ass.

[@el_de_el_loquendo9855]

@@neepers Wait is Linus a multimillionare or is the company valued more than $2M, also Taran is not a kid who has to steal paper anymore.

[@TaranVH]

Thanks for your comments, everyone. :')

[@Andrew9908]

yoo it’s the legend himself

[@wretchedfretched6494]

How've you been?

[@DawidDoesTechStuff]

Wow! You have been such a huge part of LTT for what seems like forever now. Good luck with your future endeavours and congratulations on your engagement. :D

[@quack1119]

Wot

[@Spike_365]

:D

[@Glorious_Yell0w]

u also a great youtuber Dawid just wanted to put that out there.

[@PrxducedbyRod]

Hi dawid

[@robertwendal5894]

Dawid I always have wanted to see a Collab between you and LTT, your non consensual GPU tear downs and his blatant puns. It would make for a fantastic Dawid vs LTT gaming PC build off.

[@JCR4990]

Says a lot about Linus that he's completely cool with (and seems to even support) one of his earliest employees taking all the skills and knowledge he's gained working there over the years to break off and start his own KZbin channel. I feel like most companies this big would've had no compete contracts and all kinds of other nonsense. LTT is a class act.

[@svenasmussen8745]

LTT does have non compete in their contracts I think linus talked about it on wanshow once. Thats also why they have the probation where they dont show up on camera the first 6 months or so. But in general it seems like you can be open if you have other stuff you want to pursue which is really cool

[@corbvn373]

i think with what linus went through at the beginning of his career he wouldn't do that to anyone. such a great guy

[@RoseAbrams]

They said on WAN show that they do have such a clause, but the way they talked about it made it seem to be more like a "always ask first" thing

[@gregziel]

The probation thing is a Canadian law that they have to abide by. Other stuff is spot on though. Normally there's a 3 month probationary period in Canada and since Linus films everything he takes it a step further to not show the employees faces until he knows they're a good match for the company and are off their 3 month probationary period.

[@MyNamesHunter75]

@@gregziel Makes sense to do it that way as well given just having your face on a popular youtube channel can sometimes help your career outside of it and i beleive the blurring is in part privacy along with they don't want people just joining the team because they want to get exposure they'd rather hire a good fit and let them grow organically

[@jkcazy1692]

Just donated 20$ to my local foodbank. Thank you for using this as a way to get a message out to help others.

[@GearSounds]

Yay communism! Food = Labor. While some people do struggle and need the free labor, no one is entitled to free labor and the food bank has no way of verifying if you're struggling or just taking advantage. Until that is fixed, I will just donate to the homeless.

[@EposVox]

What a way to go! Looking forward to your future videos. Good luck with the move and the wedding!

[@TheBacktimer]

Did you understand where he was saying which island group he was going to move? I didn't catch it.

[@TheNiceboy772]

"Kootenays" I think he said

[@TheBacktimer]

@@TheNiceboy772 that's gotta be it, thanks!

[@handlemonium]

Heeeel yeeah 🤟

[@canht95]

You guys should collab!

[@kaitoraichu]

It really makes me so sad every time someone from the original LTT staff leaves, but I'm also very happy for them, going out and doing new things, and I wish them all the best. Best of luck Taran! You got this!

[@fasterbrutaler]

We still got Brandon

[@kaitoraichu]

@@fasterbrutaler and Edzel

[@SwordQuake2]

@@kaitoraichu and Nick

[@xwiick]

@@SwordQuake2 and Luke

[@systemthirtytwo]

@@xwiick no, not Luke

[@igetwoahs3073]

This hits pretty hard. My mom left me and my brother when I was 15. I moved in with some friends for a few years but after I moved out to try and start my own life. During Halloween we threw a party and invited some people from our apartment complex, one group was caught stealing a roll of toilet paper. We weren't exactly nice to them when we found out because we were also struggling financially. About a week went by and our struggles were getting worse. We finally understood how they felt. Being poor sucks and there simply isn't enough support out there for people to get out of poverty.

[@juts_sama]

It eats you psychologically when you're put into a spot that you just don't know where to get tomorrow's budget. You'll feel trapped and hateful.

[@geor00k]

​@@juts_samaCompletely agree, been struggling myself living day to day. I have to drive to work to earn money but when you can't afford to put fuel in your car it's like oh sh!t, I'm f!cked. Food or fuel was my choice and it sucks. Really felt for Taran in this. Onwards and upwards to us both 🤞

[@ToxicMothBoi]

The fact they all laugh like friends eventho they are employee's is just so mindblowing to me. Love everything about them

[@AntVenom]

Thanks for being a driving force in how much I enjoy being a macro/ tech nerd. I’ve always enjoyed what you’ve brought to LMG, and I’m super excited to see what’s next for you!

[@nemiesis]

Didn't expect you here :) Awesome

[@gian-marco6047]

@@nemiesis same

[@realtimestatic]

Recently saw your comment under another LTT video. I’m guessing you’re a regular as well

[@handlemonium]

SAME Ditto that 👍

[@ArcturusCOG]

Sheesh

[@ChrisTitusTech]

Good luck man. The toilet paper story really hit home. I moved far away from my home when I was younger and instead of stealing toilet paper, I'd just "clean out" the fridge at my work because I couldn't afford food. I actually look back at those times and am thankful for them because it makes me appreciate life that much more today. Can't wait to see what you do with your channel over here, even though I'm a final cut pro editor hehe.

[@rmp5s]

Perspective. Something that is so woefully absent with so many people these days.

[@tatendadennismbindi2662]

Yeah, that story hits hard when you've lived it, and every bit of that emotion is true and honest. Always great to see someone who's been there finally make it to a point where they can talk about it and laugh about it because it's all finally become ok.

[@tailsorange2872]

AYYYY - Never thought I would see you here....

[@AHomelessDorito]

I was in a similar financial situation and whenever I could have some food for break by the time i got back to the fridge it was stolen. Thanks for stealing my hard earned food.

[@MarcosElMalo2]

Someone in our household had a janitorial key that opens the TP dispensers you see in some public bathrooms. You know, the really big rolls? Thus we always had TP. In another house in another city, two of the roommates were waiters and brought home food. I guess restaurant owners weren’t such tightwads back then. I don’t want to romanticize it, because poverty really does suck, but there was a certain amount of camaraderie in shared misery. I imagine it must absolutely suck to be poor and isolated.

[@michaeljoseph6782]

I was in absolute tears. Hard times make good strong men.

[@JackFou]

I don't know what I expected when I clicked on this video but I sure as hell didn't expect to cry. I've never had it so bad as you did but I do know the anxiety and desperation of struggling financially... I'm glad you overcame it. I'm glad you had the courage and strength to tell the story. I'm glad you have such supportive people around you. And I wish you and your significant other all the best for the future.

[@RebakaChan]

Congratulations Taran! What an incredible story. I look forward to seeing you thrive here on KZbin! May the Future be bright!

[@Spike_365]

Ye

[@aGemmstone]

@@Electrodexify shut up, you don't know the struggles of someone else, shut up

[@K0rG4mer]

it takes courage to share a story like that, but it takes even more to not to give up on the most trying times. good luck on your journey and congratulations for everything.

[@acmenipponair]

:) Well I guess he knows that Linus will if needed give him freelancer editing jobs ;)

[@marioStortuga]

@@acmenipponair I think you missed what they were saying.

[@neilgreene]

Real feelings. Real story. Real People. Real Family right there.

[@Dani_Krossing]

I'm so happy for you. Couldn't help not shedding a tear over your story hehe. Bests of luck with your channel, your Premiere super guide helped me immensely long time ago. 🙂

[@hefgu4703]

You'll always be my favorite LTT editor. Gods speed for you my man. And also the forever macro king

[@SolaireFlair]

This is the end of a fucking Era, holy shit. Taran was one of the employees I thought would be there at least until Linus retired. Good luck in your future endeavors, Taran. The LTT family and all us fans will be watching your successes.

[@hydrocarbon8272]

I mean, technically he was there for it. Except Linus kept coming back!

[@Denathorn]

This is why I love Linus Tech Tips... He has his company like it's a family, he cares about his staff, that's plainly obvious, his staff care about him, that's golden. It truly shows what a great bloke he is and should be a benchmark to any boss out there. Look after your employees, and they will look after you too, and when its time to part, you know the work relations have been spot on because it should all draw to a close with a big fat cuddle. :) Absolute respect for Linus, no surprise there are tears when a member of his staff leads... Which leads us to the segway for our sponsor... Charmin toilet paper! ;) hehehe Good luck Taran, seems like an exciting time is opening up in your life, and hats off for going to go out and grab it! ;)

[@RafaLepo1996]

dude, didn't expect to cry today. Seems like a nice place to work if that's how your goodbye went. Makes me appreciate LTT even more.

[@Tomary]

Hi Taran, my editor just sent me this video and I too was an editor for a big KZbinr four years ago when I first saw your "worlds most advanced Premiere tutorial" and I will remember it and the service it did to me till the day I die! It gave me and many others something to aspire to. A demand in ones own professionality that hasn't been seen before in the KZbin-editing space. Your toiletpaper story made me tear up, please do another treehouse. Thank you and good luck!

[@wasimgamer1364]

shout out for your Editor.

[@realtimestatic]

Yo Tomary, hab dich absolut hier nicht erwartet! Cool aber dich trotzdem hier zu sehen und es ist auch inspirierend wie du von Rewis cutter zum eigenen content creator wurdest! Es ist einfach schön zu sehen wie viele hier Taran unterstützen! Küsse gehen raus!

[@ralphM1114]

What was supposed to look like the crappiest gift ever turned out to be the most meaningful gift you could have ever given. Cheers, Taran

[@Electrodexify]

I mean he looks like a terrible employee and shady, after watching the Intel 5000 upgrade

[@alaskanhybrid1845]

@@Electrodexify Dude STFU, he worked hard for Linus Media Group and deserved it. A nice parting gift from Intel and Linus. Ive watched since the NCIX days before Taran was an employee.

[@nocturn9x]

@@Electrodexify I don't think I could be around him that much, but that's just because my ADHD would make me explode immediately 😅. I think he has something of the sort too

[@Electrodexify]

@@nocturn9x He's hard to understand and his thinking is all over the place.

[@nocturn9x]

@@Electrodexify I'm like that too. I got kinda mad under his Intel $5000 upgrade because some of the stuff he does is nonsense, but probably most people I'm around think the same about me😅

[@NecrosVideos]

We all love you man i respect everything you had to go through, You're a strong individual! LTT wont be the same but i'm excited to see where you go next!

[@johnwalker6158]

Taran I freaking love you bro and I didn’t know you quit. You are such an amazing person and I’m will be watching you still cause you have become apart of my life with everything you have done. It took courage to tell your story. And I love you even more now because of it.

[@Hopgop1]

So sad to hear that one of the early employees of LMG is leaving, Taran has to be one of my favourite employees from all the early CSF pranks with Nicky V and the moving vlogs. Thanks for all you've done for us Taran and a big thanks to Linus for making sure you got to live comfortably. Good luck on your future mate.

[@macattack123mattc3]

And you remind me of the Nicky V Specials... Man I miss old CSF. I wish they would do something with him again. And now the macro king is leaving... How things change. But, best of luck in future endeavors Taran! Keep those keyboards going!

[@Slavolko]

@@macattack123mattc3 It's sad to see those videos end, but at least we can be glad we saw them.

[@DonnyStanley]

I never thought I'd be this emotional over a toilet paper story. Congratulations and best of luck Taran. You're definitely a big part of why LTT has been so successful. I've no doubt you will be missed. BTW Taran, we don't know each other but my first year at CES I had the pleasure of being at a party the LTT staff were attending and I will never forget how you dance like no one is watching. Truly a free spirit.

[@cosmiccatlord4902]

Nice

[@Noorullah1]

I remember watching this 8 months ago. The story was really touching. The same goes towards people living in the U.S. If you are facing hard times, go to a food bank! I frequently volunteer at a food bank that provides food, diapers + baby food, pet food, and even birth control!

[@Kai-Made]

I am late...always late. BUT Taran, I was right there with you. Worked at a Gas Station for a couple years after college...struggled would be putting it mildly. AND to know you are on solid ground now, as am I after pushing so hard. It is a good feeling, but it worth mentioning finding a good boss is worth it's weight in gold. Glad you are well...

[@emily-young]

It's surreal to see you go, but I'm glad you're going in a positive direction! You've been here for as long as I've been here x2, and I doubt anyone will forget all that you've done here anytime soon. Congratulations and good luck! Oh, and don't forget to stock up on toilet paper before you go, the nearest Costco is a long way out.

[@System51]

Anthony one question. How old is this PFP?

[@emily-young]

@@System51 This one is from around when I started in 2017, before appearing on camera. I've put on weight since then, getting back down to that weight is a major goal for me.

[@kiefernapfelfruchtbube4189]

@@emily-young best of luck with that, and thank you for sharing your knowledge with us in LTT videos. Guys like you are the reason I found my passion for computers and technology

[@kolvis6626]

@@emily-young I know this is Taran's video but I'm hijacking this comment to tell you you're awesome. Keep it goin bro! edit: a letter

[@BillyEilish]

@@emily-young Love seeing you on camera my dude, you got much knowledge 🙏 Keep going!!

[@Krinios]

end of an era o7 thank you Taran for all your work for LTT and editors all around the world, you’re forever a legend

[@AquaOnYoutube]

krinios

[@Mr.2GD]

Whose the original 7?

[@daniellawson9894]

Mr. 2GD I think o7 is just a person saluting

[@basil127]

@@Mr.2GD probably linus, luke, edzel, taran, brandon, andy, and colton?

[@marklion315]

@@basil127 not colton

[@TheHyperGamerVideos]

This is maybe the sweetest goodbye I've ever seen from a workplace. Good luck Taran~! I believe you have great promise!

[@jarrithosking6294]

Man, respect for the honesty. Many people would not be able to just come clean and say they stole something. Good luck with your new adventure and all the best! I can see the LMG team is definitely going to miss you for sure!

[@juliasmith1182]

He couldn't come clean yet... He needed the TP

[@100missedcalls]

I think after all the intel tech upgrades, EVERYONE has been found to have stolen something.. though I think one could argue the TP was most expensive of them all ahahah

[@offensivebeefroast5407]

@@juliasmith1182 lol

[@MrZestubo]

I feel like this speaks to Linus' character as much as Taran's. What kind of boss, on your way out or otherwise, could you admit to have stolen supplies from and they'd still want to give you a hug? that you'd *want* a hug from? Incredible people all around.

[@DanielH212MC]

With how much the various employees have stolen from LMG over the years, this is just standard.

[@Ayrora-]

On a serious note. You’ll forever be in the LTT memory and family. Congrats on getting married. Best of luck to your adventures

[@klote82]

That's pretty brave to share that kind of thing with an employer. There was a period of time where I barely had money left over after paying bills I would only have rice and oatmeal in the pantry it really suckednbut it makes me appreciate everything I have now!

[@bigmurph762]

That a video like this exists, speaks VOLUMES to how positive a work environment LTT must be. You had my attention before and now you have my respect LTT

[@BittenHand19]

Dude I was so ready to make a joke about how you're quitting right after getting that Intel upgrade but I didn't expect to be crying by the end of this. Glad things turned around for you when they did!

[@BertoLaDK]

Thought about that too. Its always sad to see people break off from big channels you love.

[@cilith1]

I was thinking the same thing. but if any employees deserved it's him since he pretty much been there since day one.

[@athmaid]

Wouldn't be surprised if it actually was an unofficial parting gift

[@lucase6407]

@@athmaid My thought too!

[@GahloWake]

It actually makes me wonder if they decided to wait until his episode was out, because if he quit earlier that would have been hella awkward.

[@GaAnRu]

I thought that it was a clickbait, like so many other "I quit" or "I'm done" videos that populate this place. Instead, I got a really hard but heartwarming story. I hope nice things come your way, Taran. I'll miss your LTT videos, but I'm subscribed to your channel now. Keep it up, and good luck with your projects. Congrats on getting married!

[@AbbaHalevi]

And just like LTT he 'fixed' the title a couple days later.

[@Squitdoogenz]

@@AbbaHalevi What was the original title?

[@thewinter_]

@@Squitdoogenz iirc it was just "I quit."

[@peterw1534]

I almost didn't watch it because I assumed it was clickbait. This is the one (and only) time I'm glad I did.

[@buddinglearner7085]

YUP same herer. THE BEST ONE YET>

[@NuclearAmouri]

Everytime this gets recommended I watch it again and get emotional again. Thank you Taran for sharing this. This must've been difficult for you. I'm glad you're better now and I hope you're doing excellent now. You made it bro. You came out on top throughout all the hardships you endured. Best of luck for you, always.

[@TiagoRamosVideos]

WOW amazing! I didn't know about Taran leaving and it was an enormous shock 😱 his story was very hard 🙏 I'm glad it all worked out well and I wish Taran all the best in his new adventure 😊

[@Glorious_Yell0w]

Linus is a great boss. And Taran is the proof that Linus is the one of the best bosses. The mans vision is that every employe should be able to buy a house or apartment. The world would be better with more people like Linus.

[@namonaite]

In a way it kinda sucks that it's not the standard

[@Klementoso]

Although I agree with you ideology wise, LMG isn’t really a fair example of a company. For LMG the sky is pretty much the limit, so Linus can afford to be the good employer and also benefit himself and grow the company at the same time. There’s a lot of companies who don’t have that luxury. I’m not saying there’s no bad people running companies, but it’s not always a result of bad intentions. No normal company can sustain taking unresponsible losses for an extended period of time. Even companies like Uber will at some point in time have to start making a profit, or they’ll go belly up as well.

[@HoloScope]

@@Klementoso Edit: ok I was wrong they're currently operating at a -550 million dollar loss. But your argument still makes no sense. That situation is unique to Uber's business model. How many companies do what Uber does?

[@andrewshi8675]

@@HoloScope revenue does not equal profit

[@acmenipponair]

@@andrewshi8675 Yes, but still, the difference is: Uber is made to make the owners rich by exploiting the employees. LMG is made to give the owner fun (he became rich a bit by accident :D) and so he gives back to those who help him having fun. I'll bet Linus could be much richer if he would just want to exploit his customers. In reality his company started when he hired his friends - and he treats his people like that. Or do you know a company that would spend 20.000 Dollar on a place where they can have in-company-lanparties? :D

[@fattypanda13]

their leaving gift was the 5k upgrade, what a company to be apart of. no other company would show that much love

[@bygodwearemen]

Hi Taran. I have seen the early days videos of you with Linus on a binge after I saw one of Linus' videos in my timeline. i basically binge-watched almost all of the videos that I found interesting. This by far, is the most wonderful video I can recall ever seeing in my 50 years of life on any social media platform. I wish you all the success you need and deserve in your life to never have to go back to "taking" toilet papers from where you did. God bless you for sharing this story. many of us have done some things because we were so poor and, we had to make some choices that people who are better off can never really understand. Thank you. May the love of your wife and yourself endure.

[@kindatempted]

Very touching story. I hope you have a brighter future ahead.

[@zednotdead]

As someone that grew up in a poor family (not poor enough to get financial assistance, but just poor enough to still be struggling) that also found a way to break out of that poverty through tech (I became a web developer), your speech about toilet paper really got to me. Godspeed, Macro King. Here's to a new chapter in your life.

[@DaimyoD0]

Being in a working class family that's not quite impoverished but poor enough to fall through the cracks of almost every welfare program is a special type of bureaucratic hell. It's a special type of experience I think. For us, we were unbelievably wealthy by the standards of global poverty, and yet living in the United States, still felt like we were just treading water, trying not to drown. Despite being the richest nation in the world, our definition of poverty is so restrictive, and therefore the requirements to qualify for programs limited by means testing are as well. Our definition places the poverty line very low by comparison to many other wealthy, Western nations, and even by comparison to the standards that the US upheld just fifty years ago. I grew up always knowing where I'd sleep, and that there would at least be something to eat. The lights and cable went out from time to time, but my parents were always pretty good at minimizing that so I wouldn't worry. You don't feel poor until you visit the houses of some of your friends from school and realize they don't look like your own. They seem to hoard a lot less and have a lot more. You don't feel poor until you're old enough to see how stressed your parents are all the time trying to maintain a middle class existence and keep up a façade. It can feel really bizarre growing up and realizing the contrast. It feels like life is a lot harder for you and your family than it is for a lot of your friends from school who have generational wealth. All the pressure on you, being the first person in your family to go to college. Then at the same time, you feel unbelievable privilege and gratitude that you even get to go to college, that with the right combination of loans and grants you can swing in-state tuition, because that was never guaranteed. And there are so many people who don't know where they're sleeping tonight. There are so many people who won't know for sure that they have something to eat. And you just can't ever let yourself forget about them.

[@1SquidBoy]

Inspiring. I'm 7 weeks in to a self taught web development program. Just started learning JavaScript. Hoping to escape and get a web dev job within a year.

[@Xtrems]

I'm not a developer, but can relate to the "not poor enough" thing. My mom earns the minimum wage, while my dad lives abroad and earns a lot, and on top of that collects child support money from that country abroad. He doesn't share, I've never seen the child support. Nevertheless, his earnings count into the household earnings, which stand as a barrier between me and getting any help, because there's a requirement for them to be low. Thankfully I worked hard and instead of getting welfare, I got a scholarship. It's lower than welfare but it's still something, allows me to eat and even save up.

[@hapaq4459]

@@DaimyoD0 Right on the spot. Grew up in an area with massive wealth disparity. Free (often terrible) breakfast and lunch, hour long bus rides for school, not aware of any other life. Never had a birthday party. I rarely went to other's houses or parties, but when I did it felt completely alien. Not only from a wealth disparity, but also because the area I grew up in was 98% white, and guess what? I was just different enough for me to stick out, even though I still struggle with identity and my own face. I too never worried of where I slept or if there was food of at least some kind around, and I am forever grateful for that. @Taran Van Hemert my parents did use food banks, and we were lucky enough to have space to grow a little food and chickens. Chores meant chores. Even when we didn't have a lot we still worked at the food bank, worked for holidays to make food for those who had nowhere to go and eat otherwise. I went into tech because I saw it as an escape from what I saw as poverty, and in that case I succeeded. However it is a hollow feeling for me. I still haven't really connected on a personal level to others in the field, and am much more comfortable and able to be myself around those who embodied the lives of my parents. We were happy, not driven by money but for each other and for learning. Food and housing stability should be available to all, not just those that are able to "move on". I'm glad I have the perspectives from life I do, but there is always a what-if. Taran, I hope your new chapter is exactly what you want it to be.

[@Motoko86]

I cried, not gonna lie. Good that you're in a good spot now, thank you for everything and I can't wait to see what's to come! And, of course, huge congratulations on getting married soon! Happy for you, Taran

[@allenqueen]

I miss Taran's Techquickies and his macro videos. He had a way of speaking which really grabbed my monkey brain

[@Davidlavieri]

Having people to remember you on their most vulnerable moment awesome

[@brandonganz190]

Damn Taran, that's some real to the heart shit, and what sounded like a weird story of stealing toilet paper for many, for anyone who has struggled this really hits the mark. Best of luck man.

[@TyranitarTube]

That's a beautiful story my dude, the littlest thing turned really meaningful. i'm gonna miss you bro, you left a huge mark on ltt (and his tp)

[@pressurestroke0105]

Can you summarise the story if you don't mind?

[@WGG25]

and how would you know how big of a mark he left on the toilet paper? 🤔😅

[@Hiperultimate]

Ay TTAR :D

[@jefferyskeenan]

There is so much to unpack here with what society has done to young people. Not since the great depression did people need to make these choices, but somehow in the greatest economy the world has ever known, we have this happening to our own children, our own citizens. It is an embarrassment of colossal proportions. The only thing we can do is better. Not make the same mistakes. Thank you so much for your story.

[@DutchGuyMike]

Yes, the elitists globalists are gathering all control to their clutches, subtly and slowly. Even in my country of 17 million people who have accomplished so much as a tiny nation, almost 2 million are risking coming into debt, all because of very shady manipulation to the point where people would label you as crazy if you would tell them how deep it all goes.

[@anirudhchinta8685]

What you say is true, but this is in Canada.

[@mukkah]

@@anirudhchinta8685 kids around here are gonna hafta steal a hella lot more than just TP to get by these days Beauty of a positive video. Loved it, needed it

[@sampreece3900]

It seems like everyone knows but doesn't want to admit that society is a dystopia controlled by centralisation/ privatisation.

[@DutchGuyMike]

@@sampreece3900 *elite globalists cadre (bankers, rothschild, rockefellers, FBI/CIA etc)

[@lmSnarkk]

Really love these raw emotional videos. Best of luck Taran!

[@xeygar]

I’m not crying man, you’re crying… LTT family is the best, so humble and just a bunch of nerds looking out for us nerds around the world

[@FonikosGazmas]

SKADADDY!!! (for the people who know ;) )

[@vaisakhkm783]

@@FonikosGazmas didn't get it :|

[@JohnSmith-oh9ux]

linus shill tips "nerds looking out for us nerds" lmao you sheeple

[@benjy117]

CRACKA POWA OH CANADA!

[@freshtendrills5969]

There's no such thing as a "nerd" anymore. You guys missed the boat on that shit. McDonalds are nerds now.

[@adamw9764]

Taran holding back the tears, this is actually really nice to see. Love the vids that Taran was in and will always remember him as a key member of the LTT team. Good luck on where you are going next, you will always be part of the LTT team

[@istoleyourpc6721]

i kept seeing this in my recommended for the longest time and i'm so glad i finally gave in and watched this most wholesome farewell. giving my best to you, Taran. i abhor it when businesses say that they're "family," but i feel LTT is a rare exception where that's actually true.

[@steel-r_ua]

It takes real courage to say this, and to say it in front of multiple people. You did the right thing 👍

[@TheJamesKF]

Cutting onions in here.. As someone who grew up with little means this really hit home. I am so thankful my children know nothing of food insecurity. What a heartfelt story from Taran and terrific advice to donate to you local food bank. No one should be going hungry in a world with such excess. Best of luck Sir!

[@AaronMiley]

Same. It took two decades to dig out of poverty but my kids have never wanted for the basics and live in far more comfort than I did. Best thing we can do for others is to help lift them.

[@c90adventures]

Thank you so much for sharing your emotions with us, Taran. This was so heartwarming.

[@stevesteve2265]

what is heart warming about a multi billion dollar company exploiting their work for with wages soooo low they can't afford to eat? Why ask people to donate to food banks when we could vote for politicians who could change society so that food banks wouldn't ed to feed the employed

[@c90adventures]

​@@stevesteve2265 I have excellent news, NASA just called and would like to award you a contract. Normally launching satellites is very expensive, but they're fascinated with how effortlessly you got the point of my comment to fly so far over your head that it's actually in space. They are interested in painting something I say on the side of a satellite, and then getting you to read it. This should instantaneously launch it into geostationary orbit. It is also predicted that if I use a word with four syllables, inter-galaxy travel might be possible.

[@ebenjones6320]

Hi Ed, I wasn't expecting to see you here! I can't wait for the next Alaska to Argentina video!

[@thomask5434]

@@c90adventures Hahaha. Nice one.

[@jwblue575]

He was serious???? Wow, 3:12 in it becomes clear why the gift. Good Luck Teran !!!

[@NotYourAwerageJoe]

What a beautiful farewell salute. Coming clean is getting off the past and securing a new future. Well done, Sir, so inspiring and admirable!

[@aidanstarke8303]

When I went to LTX 2018 I briefly had a chance to meet you and more of the team. Just a fantastic experience overall, thanks for all the laughs. Here’s to many more! Have a great day!

[@AuthenTech]

Wow, Taran was there for so long... a strong OG. Wishing you the best in future adventures

[@TroubleChute]

While I'm sad to see Taran leaving such an awesome job, he's got more awesome opportunities ahead. Thanks for the nerdy tutorials. I have used and learned from your AHK scripts and other nerdy things and am excited to see what else you create in the future.

[@NGLoc123]

Exactly this!

[@mkfmgaming3019]

This is what a real work place should look like, a brotherhood, a family, life long friends you care about. This shows what a amazing leader can accomplish with coworkers. God bless you all and good luck out there in this sad world. It’s wonderful moments like this that make it worth it

[@manjyot818]

I hope there were more hugs, we will all miss you but also love to see you happy no matter what you do!

[@GameNationRDF]

I was a kid when I first started watching LTT. Taran, nick, nicky V the legend, linus, luke, ed... They were a part of my life (I had much more free time back then). Now Im 25, moved out of my country, my life has very little things in common to what it used to be but among the things that stayed constant was the comfort and nerdy joy I felt when I watched an LTT video when I came back from school/work etc. Sometimes I fell asleep watching it. Taran, thank you for giving me a safe space, a cozy corner of the internet that I can come to and relax, chill, learn, laugh. I am paying very close attention to what you will be doing next so see you in your next adventure man! Much love from Germany.

[@ninovitaliano7943]

literally started watching ltt when i was like 8. 90% of my computer knowledge is credited to this godly channel

[@ShaggyThaKidd]

man i remember the og wan show and afterparties on the couch, good times. what ever happened to nicky v?

[@GameNationRDF]

@@ShaggyThaKidd I think he is still doing independent work in Canada these days

[@Lucidbkeo]

Now that I think about it, for the past 10+ years on youtube, LTT is one of the few channels I still consistently watch.

[@ninovitaliano7943]

@@ShaggyThaKidd ...what happened to ivan???

[@ThisIsTechToday]

So glad to see you go from a place of just trying to survive to thriving. I understand this journey, and it's always a humbling, joyful, but emotional thing to look back at where you were, where you are now, and where you're going. So glad to get to see this small insight into your journey and letting other people know it's okay to get help. Stoked to see how things go for you in this next chapter!

[@debojitmandal8670]

But y is he leaving is it bcs if lower paid wage.

[@defective7985]

@@debojitmandal8670 he said he’s leaving because he’s getting married

[@debojitmandal8670]

@@defective7985 ya also he said he was getting paid low i donot know was it a sarcasm but i guess even that's a problem

[@deltaoalice9281]

It is obviously sarcasm. Especially considering their living conditions.

[@debojitmandal8670]

@@deltaoalice9281 what do u mean by their living condition

[@D8099.]

I’m spoiled BUT!! I come from a long line of people like this guy. Both my mom and dad were poor, and relatives on both sides have stories like these. Then my parents got a little lucky in business before I was born. They made sure I went to public school. Not private. Where I had normal people as friends. I’m still friends with the same kids I met in the sandbox from my small town. But turns out I’m gay so I needed a community only found in big cities. I haven’t heard a human being speak so candidly about how tough life can get since I was a kid. Damn it’s attractive. If I ever meet a dude brave to tell me a story like I’m marrying him on the spot no prenup. I freakin cried through the whole video. No one is brave enough to talk this way openly. This was a painful story but it was also very beautiful maybe one of the most beautiful. So real and down to earth. All of us carrie so much shame hiding so much of who we are. I’ve never met this guy, but I love him. ❤

[@TheMuser]

I thought it was going to be some fun and games. But this hit hard. So much respect for both you and Linus! Hope you have great succes in your future endeavours!

[@sirflimflam]

Man, this was a lot more emotional than I thought it was going to be. Definitely good advice about food banks... people tend to think you should donate food to them, but if you give them money they can make really good deals with third parties for more, better food, than the 24 plain cans of lima beans you bought for them. Food you already have you're not going to eat, as long as it's edible? Absolutely. But never buy food to deliver to a food bank.

[@pootin9240]

Agreed

[@flyingfuzzball]

I think another exception of this is if you are a farmer with fresh food or a family with a large garden, that can also be great for them (obvious disclaimer, you should talk to your food bank first). My Dad does 99% cow corn on his acreage but does a few rows every year of sweet corn for family, friends ETC. Well a few rows of sweet corn is always more than people can eat so we take the excess to a local food bank. Couple pickup truck loads to their warehouse and they can get local families fresh, local food. Wish more farmers would do this. Nobody should go hungry in this world.

[@TehKazlehoff]

As someone who was desperately poor in his 20s, living off 6 meals a week while living in an apartment that grew mushrooms from the carpet out in Calgary, thank you for posting your story Taran. Being that poor fucks you up for a long time. I'm nearly 40 now, and finally starting to realize things I've done for years that are literally insane to think about with clearer eyes.

[@dittocopys]

That's the most metal thing I've ever heard. How long did it take to yield mushrooms and how long did the shroom farm last? Did they just live off dead skin in the carpet?

[@Hiperultimate]

Are you okay now? I hope you are :(

[@xathridtech727]

I'm in my 20s and I just got my first good tech job and like finally having a safety net is so wierd I've always been scared of losing things so I do my best to protect them but I've never had spare income and now I do it's crazy

[@ChaosTherum]

@@xathridtech727 I'm in a similar boat finally got into programming around 25, on the bright side you are so used to being a cheap bastard that you end up saving money.

[@sidewaysbackflips]

@@ChaosTherum this is exactly how my life went.

[@goldfish2289]

Super happy for you person I don’t know what so ever. I’ve had that experience and it good.

[@SpectraLzz]

I just watched LTT video that there's 80 employees and I was like "wait a second, where's Taran, the guy that painted razor blade on his cup because of his clip cutting skills" and got here. Man, I wish you all the best, and this video made me appreciate what I already have in my life more. And of course I'll stay here for longer!

[@genhen]

This makes me even more sad for all the poor people who are not out of that situation

[@jiobodega2358]

Sadder when the poor people have to choose between the food or roof over their heads

[@subhajitkarmakar291]

Yeah like more than 90% of us

[@aladdin8623]

Like in many other countries it is a shame, that they don't seem to have a zakat system, which is an important pillar for merciful societies.

[@thatoliveguy7389]

@@aladdin8623 yeah true honest goats imo Many well off people i know where refugees with zakat support. Glad to see how stuff turned out for them

[@pewnit]

Yeah, it sucks but it's whatever. Gotta do what you've gotta do, besides, I set myself up for this.

[@alywiika9859]

It is sad to see a pillar of LTT leaving, but everyone has to move on ... Good luck taran and I wish you the best.

[@frameshade]

Literally a pillar, the tallest guy there

[@tibib0ss]

Why everyone needs to move on ???? maybe some people are ok with stability

[@benpower5599]

@@tibib0ss I think he just means at some point because it’s inevitable.

[@ari-mcbrown]

well said

[@laancedance]

Thank you Taran for you contribution to LTT! You deserve all things positive that comes your way!

[@Thomlinmusic]

Your story is hilarious but mostly moving at the same time.. Through moments of laughter I felt a bit of the struggle you shared.. I'm so glad for you how your story continued and where you at right now. Best of luck with the rest of your career!

[@Lam]

Taran wishing you the best, thanks for being so courageous with your story. I think you helped a ton of people realize they aren't the only one going through the same struggles and that there can be a way out. Thanks for producing all the amazing tutorials, I've learned a lot from you over the years. Wishing you the best in your next chapter of your life! Congrats dude! 🙂

[@jayaskme2942]

Amen, as another guy that was too proud to ask for help, this took me back to my times of having to buy a rotisserie chicken from jewels for $5.99 and having to stretch that to cover a week. And grats on getting married my man. Here's to that shiny future

[@raf42]

I just donated $20 to my local food pantry, with the message "Taran sent me". Thank you, Taran, for all you've given us in the community, and for your story. I, too, know how hard it can be to reach out for help. I had significant health issues crop up early in my time at Uni, and I initially refused to reach out for help from the various resources that are made available here. It cost me quite a bit in terms of my academics. But I ended up finally accepting the help, and thriving. In my last few years here I've reached out to struggling freshmen to give advice and urge them to seek out and accept the help that is there for them. I'm actually graduating next week, with honors, something I never thought would be possible to do. I wish you all the best in this next chapter of your life, and I will eagerly await your next hour-long-tutorial-for-something-that-I-will-never-use-but-still-watch-the-whole-thing-and-enjoy-the-hell-out-of-it! -Raf

[@_wizen]

As someone who is trying to game dev themselves out of legislated poverty, I felt this video, hard. I still don't know if I'll be ok, but all I can do is take one step at a time. Onwards and upwards.

[@DanielCruz-vj6yr]

You’ll get there man you got this 🙏

[@ghost99kr]

Dude this is hard, i have never been in that situation thank to my mom but this leaves you thinking

[@Nostalgia_Realm]

Taran we loved your work on LTT videos! Good luck with your future endeavors 😄🧻

[@KeppyKep]

No way. One of the OGs gone. That was a really moving farewell, I was tearing up. This must have been a super hard decision to make, but I wish you all the best, and look forward to watching your channel. And CONGRATULATIONS on getting married!! And really glad you got in an Extreme Tech Upgrade before you finished up. Should help you in your new endeavours, and you absolutely deserve it

[@mrfatmanjunior]

The other camera guy left also a while ago right? I Think is name was Nick? Not sure.

[@notgrinch]

That's honestly kinda sad. I've always looked up to you. You probably were one of the nerdiest ones of the bunch. It was kinda amusing to see your over the top setup, especially your keyboard XD. Anyway, good luck man. Will miss ya :)

[@kuriinaa6969]

I feel this guy… ❤ it’s tough, and dark, not everyone has straight path or a sensei to guide them. It’s good to hear someone so appreciative, 🎉

[@gerkomulder105]

Linus is a great guy, pulled you out a shitty situation. However, everything after that, you managed by yourself. Never forget how you made it work also. You have great potential, looking forward to see what the future brings you.

[@goldmax1412]

In the comments on one of the LTT videos, I was very rude to Taran, so I want to apologize. I'm pretty sure Taran is a really cool dude who has worked hard to get everything he has now. Good luck in the future!

[@TaranVH]

Lol, apology accepted

[@Tra-vis]

@@TaranVH a man of the people

[@DiabloOutdoors]

You're a good guy Taran... a very good guy :) This world needs more people like you...

[@oni4691]

Those words could make a man cry and laugh at the same time, it is something really admirable, i hope u get the best man!

[@doingitsidesways]

sad to see my favourite ltt employee leave. but i hope that means you upload more stuff here, your colour videos are still some of my favourites.

[@connor1424]

“Future is bright” is a complete understatement. Arguably the most talented guy at LMG. Can’t wait to see what you do next!

[@zeinshaw8000]

As someone that's entering another stage of life in a similar way I'm wishing you the best of luck. I've followed Linus for a long time now and this just reaffirms my belief in the culture and the people at LTT. Best to you man. We've never met and probably never will but, good on ya. get after it and from one to another that found their way out... don't forget where you've been. :) im a few months late but this video made my night.

[@EricMagidson]

This was absolutely amazing to watch, both from an honesty standpoint and to see just how your life has been so positively impacted. I hear back from a student every now and again as to how I have impacted and changed their lives through my little contribution as a teacher.

[@OttoLP]

This was such an emotional ride. I just watched the intel pc upgrade video, and didnt expect this whatsoever. Much love.

[@Mateus01234]

Also getting that sweet Intel upgrade money before leaving. That was smart.

[@sahilmeena8018]

@@Mateus01234 Lol I was thinking the same. Smart idea to get that pc upgrade when you're about to start using it as your primary source of earning. He deserves it though, Linus mentioned somewhere that Taran was skilled enough to get work in high end studios if he wanted to. Looking at all those macros, I'm not gonna doubt that lol.

[@iClone101]

@@Mateus01234 Linus likely knew Taran was leaving before his 2 weeks notice, and made sure to get him his upgrade before he left.