THE REAL REASON I QUIT MAKING FASTER WITH FINNEGAN!

This is episode 242 of Mike Finnegan's Garage and yeah, i'm opening the mail here but I'm also going really deep into my personal reasons for walking away from the Motor Trend show that had my name on it, Faster With Finnegan. I hope you enjoy the insight into the most significant career decision I've ever had to make as well as the fun of seeing what viewers sent in the mail this week. Thanks for watching!
If you'd like to send me anything here's the address:
Mike Finnegan
3330 Cobb Pkwy
Ste 324-238
Acworth 30101
And if you'd like to support this channel the head over to www.fsmgarage.com and grab some of my new merch. I think you're gonna love the new designs!
-Finnegan

[@FinnegansGarage]

Thank you all for the kind words. It really means a lot. Life is good and it's just going to keep on getting better. :)

[@DUNCECAPCHILLITO]

Just a heads up the numbers on the clock are made of radium and yes as the name implies it is in fact radio active. It's your choice on if you feel like letting that bother you. Just giving you the heads up so you can make a informed decision on your own.

[@darrellbaughman4806]

Choosing family will always be the right choice brother.

[@Ka_Gg]

Do what is best for your life. We all understand. You can't do everything. You'll still do car things and we'll watch those.

[@greasemonkey4god]

Choosing family always wins. Almost lost my wife to cancer. Twice. It’s worth being home and present!!! I’m not an avid follower, but i massively respect this decision!!

[@bepbep7418]

We'd watch Finnigan cuts his grass on Sunday. 😂 Family first, always

[@JunkyardDigs]

It's hard as hell to keep pace with a channel this size when you're doing it alone, but making time for yourself and your family is a must, both for them and your own mental health. Keep kicking ass Mike, and take a break when ya need one 🤘

[@sentenced03]

Yo hell yeah kevin It's cool to see you being supportive. Love what you guys do for sure.

[@KY4TRK]

We all need some sort of self care.

[@MacsSpecialitiesProperties]

Well said , Amen brother! !

[@whitt1436]

Kevin man hell yea

[@340Demon]

You will never regret choosing family time over anything else. I’m sure it wasn’t an easy call, but it was the right call.

[@Mike.hobbies]

Agree but was this never on his mind? KZbin dont keep ya famous.

[@jaydems2k10]

Always choose everything over family , family will never be there for you. the job is what pays you and you can have more fun.

[@Mike.hobbies]

@@jaydems2k10 but why create something so good and then think oh this is wrong and I better stop, in favour of opening boxs once a week.. Who cares anyway let's just move on, unsubscribe and wait for new episodes called faster with freiburger 🤣🤣

[@yeanahnahyeahnahh7148]

​@@Mike.hobbiesmore to life them fame and money😂

[@Mike.hobbies]

@@yeanahnahyeahnahh7148 100% agree, I'm with the family time mate

[@MrEelwentworth]

It's one thing to leave a legacy that will be remembered by fans and strangers, it's a whole other thing to leave a legacy and precious memories for those that you love, and more importantly, that love you. Good on you, man. From a fan and total stranger, I am so happy for you and your loved ones.

[@b0rd3n]

20 years from now, the only people who will remember that you worked late are your kids...

[@jono6379]

Happy to hear you're doing better now you've got less on your plate. Don't feel obligated to churn out videos just for the sake of it, so many youtubers are getting burnt out because of it. Do what makes you happy, film when you want to and go for quality over quantity and we'll be right there with you. I've enjoyed so much of your content over the years and happy to hear roadkill is still going and so is the caddy project.

[@ThatOddGarage]

Not to shine my own light here, but I'm learning that REALLY fast. Film when I want, focus on quality, and don't worry about anything else. It'll turn out when it's meant to.

[@commonsense7754]

I don't think you really grasped what he said. If you want to be successful on KZbin, you cannot update at your own leisure. If you're a channel who does weekly updates and you then stop, you will kill the channel entirely and with that all income like ad reads etc.

[@ThatOddGarage]

@@commonsense7754 I understand very well what he said. Thing to remember here is that I'm a brand new channel and haven't come up with my schedule yet. Still trying to make that work. And "filming when I want to" was a blanket statement, I can film when I want to as long as my production schedule stays the same. I completely understand that if I stop what I've been doing I risk losing the channel

[@jordanlesh5962]

😊

[@jordanlesh5962]

​@@ThatOddGarage plop 0

[@jrw3813]

You're a good dude Mike! Don't sweat it one bit. When the kids get older and are well developed and adjusted and good kids, you'll be happy with your decision. You've spread your positivity all over the interwebs, and for that, we thank you! Love ya brother! Keep up the great work!

[@misterthegeoff9767]

Honestly you are setting an example to so many people. I am 44 and I have burned out twice because I didn't learn my lesson the first time. The culture of work, work, work, hustle, hustle, hustle breaks people and your kids are gonna remember this, not just that you spent more time with them but the lesson you taught them about spending time for themselves and their families when they are all grown up.

[@edpoell2876]

That kills my twins theory about how you can do so damn much. Glad to hear you are cutting back for the wife and kids, you'll never regret the time spent with your family. Stay happy and healthy Mike and keep up the great content.

[@t1ratlooker]

It’s weird when you think about it but I have been watching you since 2011 and seen your videos and your life on screen for a decade and more and the thing about you is that not only do you make great content but you are truly a great guy that’s so easy to like. Thanks for everything you do and it’s so understandable that you think about your own family and friends. We truly appreciate you

[@jacobthornock317]

Mike, be glad you had clarity to step back from the schedule. As a dad of six, an Emergency Room Nurse, determined motor head and husband, I am well aware of being pulled by the anguish of not being avalible for those lost opportunities with my children. Going to school to furthering my education as well as maintaining a fleet of vehicles, updating the home and picking up an overtime shift to afford all of these things put me on the edge of collapsing. I told myself that those "bedtime stories" are never going to comeback and my oldest, then 13, needed his dad while he matured and my daughters needed a solid figure to base their future husband's on. I changed my job, ended up with a substantial pay raise, didn't have to work any overtime. Decided that I didn't have any real benefits continuing schooling and stopped. For 2 months I was on this mental clarity that felt uncomfortably easy, but it has been such a blessing. That was 7 years ago and ,I can't stress how quickly they grow after that. You are a great dad and husband and will never regret being there for them. Way to go buddy.

[@paulshannon4576]

I can relate. I lived in Denver for 17 years and for 13 I worked 2 full time jobs and for 2 of those I worked 3 jobs. I finally burned out and sold most of my stuff and traveled for 10 months. It’s amazing when you work that much how fast your life passes by.

[@Naoj2024]

Great comment… the Bible says; believe on the LORD JESUS CHRIST and tho shall be saved.. ! Call on him today Jesus will not fail you ever..! I have found it so…❤🏁🙏🏻

[@mcyclonegt]

I'm glad you recognized it before it was to late man. It was obvious you were burning the candle at both ends a few years ago. So much content only means the family is missing out. Good luck with all your future endeavors.

[@andyk3643]

I went through similar, but with racing. Spent 1000s of hours in the garage, would miss kids school activities, and other family time because I was too busy working on the car either fixing it, tuning it, or getting it ready for a race. It started to take over my life. So I quit. Changed the whole car back to street. Now I just cruise, and race autox once a month for fun. I completely understand the stress. I feel so much better nowadays.

[@NicoleJohnsonsDetour]

Thanks for sharing this, Finnegan. We only post about once a month, which is stressful when we watch the channel dip off after a couple of weeks, but it's a sustainable rate that doesn't burn us out. I appreciate hearing your candid view. One of the reasons I left Monster Jam was to spend more time with my family... I was missing out on my kids' sports and weekends in particular. I've been there! Your family will never resent your decision! Hang in there and keep the balance!

[@SouthpawAutoworks]

Great to see your input, Nicole. Fan of your show. You and your crew are doing an outstanding job. -Robert (fellow content creator)

[@NicoleJohnsonsDetour]

@@SouthpawAutoworks Kind words, Robert!

[@George-dy3pt]

I never resent my dad or my mom for not being there but able to take care of my brother and me with a comfortable home and clean clothes and always having food! If you resent your parents for working for them and their children's lives to be stable there's definitely something mentally wrong with you!

[@GreggeSB]

I feel ya on the eyeball aging thing. I'm 45 and just got bifocals. It still beats my 35th birthday present, my Young Onset Parkinson's diagnosis. Still doing everything I can on our vehicles and home maintenance. Just gotta keep on keepin' on. Keep the awesomeness coming.

[@nickjahraus9780]

Mike, you did right, you'll never regret shedding the stress of the show's schedule for the stress of being a more involved dad. You're still here and making content that inspires us to follow along and hopefully missing the first day of your episodes because we are out doing our own adventures. Cheerios, cheese & crackers.

[@kevinfox500]

You dropped it to get time with your family. Enough said right there Mike. Did the same years ago as well, for the same reason, when my daughter was 8, and never regretted it. Husband and dad, to husband and dad. Respect.

[@jvepps]

6:00 for the quitting talk.

[@dukenukem8381]

thx

[@Chicago_Cars]

Thank you! Really didn’t feel like sitting through a waste of a video just for this answer!

[@inmate666]

Thanks

Thank you was hoping for this time stamp. Will watch the full thing in bed tonight!

[@daves_not_here_mannn]

Hero

[@kellyscars]

I love Newbern and Cotten's Laurel and Hardy antics. I have always enjoyed the way they play off each other!

[@buckykattguitar]

I see them more as Moe (Cotten) and Curly (Newbern)

[@VirginiaPossum101]

I just love Laurel and Hardy!

[@falconater68]

@@buckykattguitar Wasn't moe kind of the leader? Newberg is the adult in the relationship.

[@willstikken5619]

I see them more as something that you have to overlook in the hopes of getting to the good parts.

[@stevemoores510]

Hey Mike, good on you for choosing family over career (although you’re well established anyway). You will never regret being able to spend time with the kids and their interests. Your kids will never forget that their dad was there for them. Good for the “wifey” too!Been a fan since the first episode of roadkill. Best car show s/content ever.

[@johnsnow1355]

Tony Angelo discovered how crappy corporate tv is and ditched haggarty to go solo. Mtod killed roadkill and everything good about what you were doing with David. Locking u into contracts controlling anything u did with copywriting laws and black listing content if u live outside the USA. I congratulate Tony on not going to the dark side and loosing what he has built already free on KZbin.

[@DBGMLV]

I don't get the blacklisting content if you live outside ouf the USA. It's basically free money. I began watching Roadkill pretty much with episode 1 and stuck with it right up to the moment, they locked it to USA only. I gladly paid my subscription to watch all the Roadkill/Roadkill Garage/Hot Rod Garage/Faster with Finnegan, but I am not going through 100 hoops, spending extra money for a VPN and so on. At this point I'll watch Roadkill on a semi-legal upload online, before trying to find a loophole to pay to watch it.

[@stylepoints.180]

​@@DBGMLVyeap lost all ways of watching roadkill in australia

[@leandrocaamano1]

I payed gladly the motor trend on demand from.Uruguay... i didnt understand why restrict free internet for publicity ressons on other countries. Same with audible...

[@shawndemeter3836]

Honestly really like the unboxing videos it's pretty cool to see what people send, the generosity of people around the world amazing

[@rustEESPEED]

Mad respect for this man. People capable of this level of self-reflection are rare. I sincerely hope you find the best balance. Keep feeding the beast. Take care of yourself and family first.

[@scooter6038]

Hey Mike I have worked in television locally all my life, also have produced a few shows. When I first started watching you on tv I thought, how does this guy do it, you were everywhere! People just do not realize how hard it is to do 1 show let alone 3. You and Freiburger have changed the genera for the better. Spend your time the way you like, life is way too short!

[@calvinrowley8970]

Thanks for posting videos here on KZbin. Although I currently do still have a MTOD account, and probably will as long as Roadkill exists, a lot of my favorites have been getting canceled. It's just nice to have the option for content here on KZbin.

[@BadHaddy]

I'm with you. The loss of dirt every day stunk, though it had 10 decent seasons. And TBH, Roadkill is probably going to be looking at new hosts soon. While I LOVE Finnegan and Freiburger, both are going on 30+ years in the industry.

[@intentsmodz]

Same here, I'm also glad Tony left Hagerty and went back to Stay Tuned....

[@Jay-gs5xg]

Too many parents are not acting like parents these days and that’s the most important job you’ll ever have. I’ll always watch no matter how big the gaps are between videos.

[@omygodc]

Thanks for being so transparent. This message is so important for husbands and dads. While I will miss you in Faster, I wholeheartedly believe you made the right choice. Blessings to you and your family!

[@onemilemore541]

Thanks for the explanation Finn! It’s interesting to hear the backstory and behind-the-scenes details of your life. That makes you all the more human and relatable to the rest of us. It’s not always easy to say “no“ when you’ve got a good thing going, but it certainly sounds like it was the wise thing for you to do. Newburn too, for that matter. The struggle of stress is real and the fact that you shared with us your struggle will probably make you all the more popular. God bless, and I look forward to more of your content, both on KZbin and Roadkill!

[@allenlord3679]

I can't even imagine how big this channel would be if you were doing all those things on your personal channel instead of making the TV producers millions. Glad you get to do what you love, what and when you want to. Looks like you're having fun now and that's what matters is you getting to enjoy life and not just living to work.💯🤜🤛

[@destructionnl8165]

Happy to hear you're doing better now! I've burned out 11 years ago and for me it's been quite a struggle. When i was burning out (let's put it like that) i was way to stubborn to admit i was far too tired to do my job and everything else you need to do in life. Then one day i came home from work and i fell to the floor. Got back up and fell down again. Literally collapsed. That was the start of a long difficult time, took me 2,5 years to recover. And like you Mike, i also decided to slow down a bit. I used to work 6 days a week before i burned out, but not anymore. 4 days a week is enough. I'm self employed so 4 days of work, 1 morning of doing the paperwork that comes with self employment and that's it. Before burning out i had a job and i was happy working there. But when i tried to come back during and after recovery it didn't feel good. Don't know if i was scared to fall back into old paterns or whatever but i needed to change things and i ended up being self employed. Long story short: People, listen to your body and have some rest if your body gets exhausted. You don't want to go through that.

[@MixedGarage]

I admire you for knowing something needed to change and putting your family first. I do miss you on fwf but 12 volt and Cotten are doing great with it. I hope you would be able to race them again so you can still school them. I love your content on here and don’t mind watching the boxing videos. It’s fun because you give us story’s as well. As someone who want to start a KZbin channel I like hearing how your learning to balance life. Thank you Finn and keep it up

[@oldschoolmodeler]

I've been a fan ever since Roadkill started. Unfortunately I've missed so many episodes of Roadkill ever since it went to Motor Trend. I really miss Roadkill being on KZbin. I do enjoy your KZbin channel. I try to watch every episode.

[@baddaddybrady2]

Sooo much Respect for you and what you have done. ❤Keep killing it sir.🤙

[@toocamcivic]

You saying spending more time with your family was all I needed.

[@hierarchymotorz5388]

I totally understand how you feel, and it’s honestly refreshing to hear that someone that’s in a better position than I am goes through the same thing. I appreciate your channel, and your work in Roadkill.

[@robram008]

Love you Finn and I understand you need time with your family

[@carsonkay880]

Mike, you're a stud. Keep kicking ass and knocking back cold ones with your feet up watching the kids play.

[@CanadianOffroad4x4]

Finnegan, I have been following you and Freiburger since Superbee & Crusher went on their drag weekend road trip on youtube. You have given LOTS to us and I have repeated lots of episodes. Youre full of entertainment and joy. Youre a great person and you need to ALWAYS have time to yourself and your family. Keep rocking and wrenching dude. I didnt expect that many FWF episodes with you and they were all great!

[@316Autos]

I don't have anywhere near the same success as you, but I can absolutely relate to your issues. From the work 7 days a week dad, to the youtube channel nose diving, to getting absolutely burned out on everything you do. I took a 57 Cadillac from bare shell to running and driving in a 4 month span and by the end of that project, I was so burnt out that I couldn't turn one more bolt on that car, so I can only imagine doing that crap in a week. Happy that you're in a better place and I applaud you for picking family over work.

[@DeadReckon]

You gotta do what you gotta do man. I'm waiting for a lot of people juggling things like this to burn out, Derek Bieri is definitely on that list. I don't know how y'all keep up with the crazy juggling so much stuff. Newbern and Cotten can carry the torch.

[@willg420]

I think Derek has it a little easier because he was KZbin famous before he went to MotorTrend. I also think Derek does his KZbin revivals months in advance. Hopefully Jessica don’t let Derek burn himself out.

[@KHALABEEB]

MAN, We just made basically the same comment.. Its crazy how when you watch these guys from the start, you can see it start to Wear on em (especially when the Corporate interests get involved) Derek especially. I wonder if he realizes that shit will put you in an early grave and traveling 300 days a year isn't worth the squeeze. Its weird worryin bout people you don't even know😂 but I see the guy doin more and more. Go watch Vgg's first few years, looks like a different person.🤯

[@DeadReckon]

@@KHALABEEB I think that's mostly just because we're watching them over the years, if it's someone you know in person the changes are less obvious. Either way, it'll wear you thin. Any videos I do are purely for the fun of it, most of the time I can't be bothered to film the mess I get into with my crappy cars. The stress of managing to film that alone is terrible.

[@chaddesantis4191]

Derek, idk. His wife is his business partner and his whole family spends time in the garage. Seems as if they are all very much together quite a bit of the time, and when they weren't he bought a house closer to a place closer to the places he races and where there are a plethora of junk cars in fields to fix up and drive home. Plus, Motor Trend didn't create a show and make him follow their model, they realized that he had a damn good concept for a low budget show that sells, so they paid him more than KZbin to follow him around for 10 shows a year.

[@DeadReckon]

@@chaddesantis4191 Oh yeah, I hate the people that say Derek sold out. Man, if someone wanted to fuel my car addiction and follow me around with cameras, paying me to do it? You're damn right I'd do it!

[@brettconv83]

Dude, as a lifetime busted knuckle mechanic that has spent thousands of hours in a garage working and missing the kids activities I feel this. I can’t lie, I get jealous of others KZbin fame because I’m human I totally don’t think people understand the sacrifices to run a popular channel. I have three boys 17. 6 and 3. I chased money my entire life, more more more. I’m turning 40 this October and for the first time in my life I’m content. I don’t care about being wealthy at this point, I just want to soak up the time with my kids I have left. I wish you the best.

[@NotoriousREV]

I always used to say to my wife that I didn’t know how you (and Frieburger) had time to do all the things you do, so it’s no surprise that you had to dial it back somewhere. Well done for recognising that you were burned out and dealing with it. I’m actually glad that Newbern and Cotton have the opportunity to make Faster all their own, they’re funny and do great builds and they deserve the success.

[@js7127]

Hats off. Grew up with same father and only remember three days of fishing and one week of vacation in a camper. I did learn very good skills from working every day with him but was anti social. Was super dad to my son surfing, fishing and camping our brains out and though I didn't save any money during those years it was worth it. Just worked hard after he grew up and retired at 55 with a boat load of great memories.

[@67steffo]

A genuine man that share his passion in a natural an enjoyable way, really pleasant to watch! I have followed Finnegan and the guys around him for many years now, from Sweden😃 And you have a great voice and the fact you don’t like to hear it recorded is pretty sane, not many “normal” people enjoy hearing and seeing them self recorded.

[@richardbutterworth7873]

Can I email you my ex-wife? And if so, will I get a free sticker?

[@w41duvernay]

LOL

[@10RRASK]

I’d also like to know the answer to this. 😂

[@4xcherokeeG]

The REAL life discussions like getting burnt out is what changes people's lives man. I think everyone at some point or another feels this way and sometimes you can feel alone but you telling your story helps us all. Thank you Sir and God Bless!

[@Babarudra]

at 53, I've had a few burnouts, and I still haven't mastered the art of not taking on too much. I do for a while, then my anxiety gets worse and worse, I start being more of an assbutt, the depression hits, and eventually my brain just hits reset. Not having had kids at least means I'm not taking any of it out on them, or neglecting them, but the same can't be said about friends and family. I wish you luck in learning the lesson better than I have. This is the first of your yt shows I've watched in a while, but saw you quit, and wanted to see what was up. Thank you for drawing my attention to something other than the next thing that "needed" to get done. Be well!

[@Ol_Dude_Macabre]

I see Derek at VGG doing the same soon. His family is involved but has to be stressful ALWAYS being busy. Good luck 👍🏼

[@claytonspeedcars]

The Beast of youtube is a wiry mistress, BUT with your content and your enthusiasm, your fans will be here watching whenever and whatever you put out there. Great projects, great skills and just a genuine bloke enjoying what he does.

[@stephenlea5765]

Good for you Mike. In the mid 90s, I was fortunate enough to talk with Sam Foose (Chip’s dad) at SEMA about the beautiful 57 Chevy Conv in the Hot Rod Booth. Told me that he built it in his home garage. I asked if he was tempted to work long hours. He said no, family was too important and that he worked M-F 8-5 & never on the weekends. It made a big impression on me then and even now.

[@OldManBadly]

The thing is, you see many possibilities, and you explore. But the grind of actually doing those things, the time needed, and the time away from family and the other things you really want to do is an incredible toll. In the content business (that is what this all is) the pressure to grind it, especially when something is working, is enormous. You should never get into something that doesn't have guardrails and limits to keep you on the path and sane. Just like any other job, you need to make sure you have enough time off to do other things you enjoy.

[@adamconnolly4620]

Hey I appreciate all you have done and sacrificed to make your videos. Long time subscriber and will continue to watch whatever you post. When it comes down to it, you're nothing if you don't have your family behind ya! Keep up with what you are doing all of us will continue to watch and support you Mike. Thank You. Many memories of watching RoadKill with my girls as they fell asleep! ❤

[@chriswilliams4853]

I know it doesn't matter, but I'm fighting pancreatic cancer, your show is one of the only thing that helps me escape and smile. Thank you once again for awesome content and hopefully can meet ya one day!

[@MrChipDouglas1]

I would sit through a 3 hour mail opening episode. I enjoy listening to your knowledge and stories. Take care.

[@kylelanger4234]

I can't stress enough how much I look forward to everything you do! You're such a personable and professional guy but still manage to make us laugh and teach us something enlightening every video/episode. Keep up the good work and know I'm here for everything you do, alone or with really anybody, for as long as you put out content. 🤙

[@lillmeca1983]

I worked for 10 yrs in a different province on a 14/7 day rotation. Flying across the country twice every 3 weeks. Recently I’ve found work fairly local to me. It’s been the best year of my life family wise! All the best man!

[@johnjunge6989]

I was a mechanic for a large company, overhauled everything from lawn mowers to tug boats, I also did train engines. These are rated as "continuous HP", so they can run all day at that HP. My train engine was 12 1/4 × 15 1/2" stroke, pulled pistons with a overhead hoist. Engines are engines, parts just get Bigger!

[@twodogsyyc6729]

We are getting Roadkill season 6 here in Canada on cable now and we love every minute of it. Good for you taking time to be a dad. I got hurt and the best thing was having time for my kids after working too much for years. Luv your channel and watch everything you start and walk away from lol

[@ryanbrockmiller1648]

They killed it man. you have been my favorite tv personality since the first Roadkill episode. I have to say though it seemed like the builds wen a little smoother without you there, Roadkill curse??? hahahaha Glad you are getting time with your family, kids grow up so fast and once they have and you missed it, there is no getting that back.

[@m9b7v5]

Congrats on the family first decision Mike. Made the same choice decades ago and never regretted it. As a RN I asked a bunch of my elderly patients if they had any advice. To a person they all said if they could go back they would spend more time with family and friends they would. Life is too short brother.

[@89v6bird]

Much respect for you Mike . A lot of people like to work too much . You have to remember the things and people that make you who you are and make you feel good . Keep up with KZbin and Roadkill that's all we need from you . God bless you and your family .

[@bobdixon4998]

I respect your decision very much! I'm a big fan, and with all the other brothers from different mothers, we're sure things will open up in a way that's better for you and your family. Thanks for all the laughter and fun!

[@briancrumpacker8248]

Hey man, I burnt out 2 years ago. I NEVER want that to happen again. You came to my house in episode 58. You asked what I did for a living to be able to live in the mountains. That stuck with me. I feel very blessed to have my job and to be able to spend so much time with my family. I still love anything with wheels and cool projects, but now I use them with the family. I do still miss that roadrunner 😒 but I used the money to get a family rig that we had many adventures in. There is a way to blend the projects, but it is tricky. I want to pass my mechanical knowledge on to my kids without turning them off. I find doing a little at a time works for us. Small projects while listening to thier music (thank God they love the 70s and 80s tunes), then skate board or videogame breaks. As you know, life is all about balance. Your kids will remember 1% of your projects and 99% of the time they get to spend with you. I am so glad you are making the right choice. Time flies, I figure the time for more projects is after they move out, to keep my mind off of how much I miss them.

[@blueduster74]

I can’t imagine what family life has been like for you, David and etc. it was bad enough when I was a service and build coordinator for JBA Speed Shop for several years. A second phone, long hours and several weekends a year gone at shows and races were hard on my family. After our move across the country in just slinging parts for a Mopar dealer again. Set hours, only one Saturday a month and no phone calls at home. I’m bored but the extra time with my teenagers and my wife is so worth it. And I’ll actually getting time to work on my own stuff again. We’re getting my Ramcharger back on the road after sitting for 8 yrs because I had two other cars and countless customers I was doing stuff on. Congrats on stepping back man.

[@marcusretaken72]

Family is ALWAYS #1. Took me until my 40's to figure out how to put that into practice. It's tough balancing work and family life, and I applaud you for taking the steps needed to put your family first!

[@carelpienaar9279]

Dude. So much respect! I am also a father and small business owner, I know were you are coming from. I know how difficult these tipe of choices are, but I also know the relief and regards that come with it. So much respect. A fan always

[@acegillette7763]

I don't think you have to explain your self why you not filming faster with Finnegan family first, above all. You have made a giant impact in the car and drag racing community. Thank you hopefully you can continue either way I support you and your decisions in the future. Thank you.

[@timkauffman8372]

Mike, I have followed you from season 1 of road kill. I am just as entertained watching you unbox your packages as you working on cars. As long as you make content, I will be watching. Stay strong, be with your family and have fun. We all love you brother!

[@ianflanders5347]

Mike, thank you for always being such a humble dude. I met you and freiberger at goodguys in Scottsdale a few years back and you guys were very kind to us. Family first man, loved the channel while it lasted.

[@sargefreedom1578]

Congratulations young man! You are a good man, husband and father. Finding that balance of working and family can be difficult. You are making the correct decision. Nothing is more important than family. My dad worked alot but we always had supper together, then he went back to work. Sundays were family day, church, dinner, hit the lake or visit family. He always made time for us. You will not regret your decision and your family won’t either. God bless you all

[@stevemayo1175]

Time missed out on is Time never regained ! You did the right thing and hey remember on you tube you can throw in Tine laps footage as a filler on Builds Like when you want to listen to Music while working Just do Time Laps with no Audio that way you can Listen to tunes while you work !!!!

[@petergamache5368]

Some others might complain but I enjoy this non-wrenching, non-racing content now and then. It's great to put on one of these videos in the background when cleaning the shop. Cheers!

[@herculesrockafeller]

Thanks for sharing this. You will never regret the time you spend with your family. I’ve seen “grind culture” ruin people’s lives and relationships. You are absolutely doing the right thing by slowing down and I will keep watching your channel no matter how frequently you post.

[@BuffsGarage]

Mike, no one can blame you for choosing family first. You have an amazing audience who recognizes what it takes to juggle it all and we’re just glad we still got you and know where to find you! Keep on truckin’ brother..

[@jehubenezette9338]

Much respect that you put your family first. Thanks for doing what you do. Keep putting out what content you can. Hope to catch you at another event sometime. It was awesome to meet you in K.C. at the World of Wheels. P.S. Thanks for shooting the short video with my buddy's missing water bottle!

[@brianlafollette7530]

Great work, we will support any fun shenanigans you do. Speed parts killer!

[@jakegackle7398]

Hey man. You do you. Whatever content you put out, I'll find and watch. I like your builds. I learn things and am entertained every time. Family should be your top priority, don't let anyone or anything tell you otherwise. Enjoy yourself, I'll be here.

[@birdhaus2021]

never put family second. I was a single dad, and had to figure out how to make a living while being the parental team. I declined travel jobs, worked late into the night, and cleared the decks for the kids. Zero regrets. Incredible results. Great decision...

[@latunguley]

I've been a full time stay at home Dad for just over two years now. My daughter is my youngest child. I quit traveling out of town booming out as a union ironworker certified welder. To be home every school day morning and night with my daughter. I miss that white color pay but I'm sure after she graduates high school I'll boom out.

[@zepedrofd]

I'm here to see you smile and have fun. I enjoy this relaxed video as much as your builds! Take care of yourself, we love you...

[@chrisecker9341]

The best on Finnegan’s youtube and social media channel is that honesty and authenticity which we viewers appreciate most.

[@RegMosher]

Been following you and the rest of the guys since magazine days. Will miss Faster with Finnegan but your mental well being and the time your family gets with you is far mor important and valuable. Thanks for all your hard work and sacrifice it is greatly appreciated

[@rustloversgarage]

Good call for you and Newbern. The kiddies will be grown and gone too soon. I can say that looking back now that both my girls are on their own. While I am and will always be a fan of yours. Heck, you are the biggest reason I started my channel! What ever access you allow to your world I will gladly accept and enjoy. Carry on my friend....God bless!!

[@BillSmith-pp9sc]

Good for you for setting priorities. Truly a great father, host and gentleman.

[@dstill3597]

Nice job with EVERYTHING. You are a great dad! You blink an eye and 10 years is gone, and so are the kids (from home). Thanks

[@easternhotrodder]

Really miss the show, especially since you were often at places I go to (Paradise), and it was my daughter's favorite show, but as a father of 2 I completely understand the decision. It was one of the reasons I stopped printing the magazine I started. Family is by far the most important. Dude, we have a ton in common. Gassers, Vettes, rat rods, hell, I'm even ordained. Glad you're good. -John

[@01FozzyS]

Thanks for sharing the FWF explanation, Mike. Definitely family first! Glad you're still happy making Roadkill as I love the show. You and Freiburger are a total team. I even watch reruns! I think FWF is in good hands with Cotten and 12 Volt Dave!

[@TRangers24]

Your a very humble dude. Never change. Love watching your content and shows. Big fan

[@AZDC520]

Very relatable! not with my youtube channel or TV shows but with taking on so much as the head of household and not being able to spend time with the family as much as we want to... Keep on keepin on brother!

[@nickrynenberg4364]

Good thing you able to spend more time with your family, you need look after yourself too. Hope you, Dave and Cotton can do something together now and then. Glad you still keeping in touch with them.

[@goatflieg]

I kinda knew everything was fine all along. Everyone is doing the right things and doing them very well. Love all you guys and will keep watching it all.

[@jonellwanger7258]

Nobody wants to watch opening boxes for 5 min.. let alone 3hours. Why he quit starts at 6 min mark. And ends at 18. There. Saved time for those who want car videos. And not unboxing.

[@AR-ed3xw]

Crazy how many views these videos get for your claim that nobody wants to watch!

[@jonellwanger7258]

@@AR-ed3xw 🤣🤣🤣👍. Lol. View counts between the first day, and a week later are vastly different. So yeah. I would say these videos are NOT as popular.

[@jonellwanger7258]

@@AR-ed3xw actual car video 500,000+ views. Last “unboxing” video. 99,000. 🤣🤣🤣🤣. 🤡🤡🤡🤷‍♂️. Can’t help the ignorance!!!

[@AR-ed3xw]

@Jon Ellwanger okay Jon! Not a lot of effort to scroll his page and see there is one of these not quite at 100k yet! But whatever, nobody wants to watch!

[@scottferguson9198]

You do you bud....family is most important. My mom passed recently and if I could go back and live those days where I told her I was busy and would come another time I would. You cant turn back time...once the time has gone you cant get it back, and you life off memories. Your kids deserve your time more than us... Love your channel....keep it up when you can. Scott from Canada

[@scottferguson9198]

@Finnegan999 #finnegan's garage

[@USFOLLOWME]

While we enjoy your company and videos. Your family will always be the most important thing in your life. They will support you and care for you when all other depart. Please take the time you need and love any content you share with us.

[@pathbelow6652]

I understand. Believe me I do. My husband had spent 30 years in the Marines. 10 years in other Government service. I have that time with and without him at home. How we had children and raised them is amazing. During these years, our kids really didn't know their Dad as much as he wanted because of duty. You can't get that time back. This isn't our fault or the military life. Our kids however feel different about it. They're as old as you and still feel this way. It's not fair. We haven't seen or heard from them in years. We try, they don't. It's good that you can change your jobs. Marines don't have that option. God bless you. We love the show.

[@davidgough1161]

I fully respect that decision and support that wholeheartedly. I lived all over the Atlanta area for 20 years. Keep up the good work and take care of your family.

[@nubs_rc6115]

Mad respect!!! Family takes priority over EVERYTHING! You only get ONE chance to raise your kids! Be there! Take your time and ENJOY!

[@rogernorris4909]

My father worked as a machinist for over 35 years and he loved it. I learned and worked on metal lathes mills as a kid. Worked with him on his Opel Mantis every weekend in the driveway. I wished I followed in his footsteps as it would make my car fun easier.

[@jessebenjamin4779]

How did I miss this! Wow glad you posted this. I am down in S. GA now but lived in the Woodstock, GA area for over 20 years. Wish I could have met you up there.

[@dansherwood9851]

Always put family first and you’ll always win! How u and Dave survived the roadkill stuff is amazing but I remember being worn out after watching a few of them and I had to say…Hell no! That alone was major burn out and I wasn’t even there. Be there for the wife and kids and everything else is a distant second place. Enjoyed all your years of fun stuff!

[@2rueblue]

You can only act for so long, the president for example, what I'm trying to say is you are genuine and when you do bugger up something you own it so people and engineers, in particular, appreciate and acknowledge this. America is full of engineers most of the best that I've seen have had no formal training. I love that culture within your beautiful country, I've come to realise that not every American that says Hold my beer ends up on their ass some if not most can fix it or do better. So you are extremely honest and that's why people show you their appreciation as we do know just how hard and long you have to work to keep us entertained so thank you and all the best from Scotland.