I love the "get it? Doors open." lol I'm on a similar journey from transitioning from short form to long form. There's so much more value in long form IMO but def takes more work. Here to support your journey!

After building the courage, I finally started a KZfaq channel to showcase the step-by-step process of creating wire-art cars, a childhood passion I had neglected for years. I just hit 125 subscribers! 🎉

KZfaq is king among all social media platforms. There is a learning curve here instead of just constant dopamine hits

68 subscribers here.. Good luck to everyone out there pushing until breakthrough. GODSPEED to us.

I'm 3 years in, 3.5k subscribers, monetized in November and all I can say is that you hit the nail on the head with this video. KZfaq is the best decision I ever made after the pandemic and I'm still publishing and going strong. Those of you reading this, keep going! It's so worth it, even outside of getting monetized - KZfaq helped me get a new job, it seconds as a video editing portfolio & it has helped build my personal brand 100x more than the last 10 years on IG ever did.

"Share these things, and trust they will find their audience" - I love that about this platform.

I just recently hit 1000 subscribers and, oddly, I may have felt a greater sense of accomplishment hitting that goal than when I completed a PhD in Molecular Biology which took 6 years. It's probably because it was so far out of my comfort zone when I started, so it took a lot more effort than I ever thought it could. Having the data trend positively and then hitting goals is a pretty awesome feeling sometimes.

I’m a 39 year old mom, professional photographer and filmmaker and this really resonated with me. I like the challenge of uploading a video a week to push yourself. I’m going to try that.

"Creating for myself". That's it right there. I worked in TV for 15+ years. I got to work on some cool stuff. But nothing is as satisfying as creating FOR YOURSELF. Not for your boss. Not for an audience. Not for a marketing team. Just you.

I legit thought this was a video by a big channel with 2 million subscribers. Bro you’re criminally underrated!!!

Seems like a lot of creative people are coming back around to KZfaq and approaching it in a different way. For me, it's not about CRUSHING the algorithm or finding the secret in the sauce. It's just about "Making" something and putting it out there.

“What am I doing here? I’m sharing myself, I’m sharing my energy”. We gotta do this first and foremost for ourselves, mostly for ourselves as a way to honour our own innate right to be, to express whatever we’ve brought to share and give to the world. I’ve been procrastinating creating my channel precisely because of the fear of sharing who I am, fear of opening up, fear of blossoming into the world. People can be really fucking cruel and the more sensitive one is the less encouraged they feel to get exposed and judged. I’m much closer than I’ve ever been though. The awful lot of shadow work I’ve done is bringing fruitful results. Thank you for this very necessary video mate.

You found the winning combination. Being a KZfaqr is very similar to running your own business. You should upload things people want to see, just like businessman should offer product/service that people need. And when the growth becomes real, you can consider hiring people to help you run your channel more efficiently. The most difficult part is starting and growing of course, but patience and hard work (with a little bit of Famester) will always pay off at the end. Good luck to everybody, I hope everyone is going to succeed one day.

KZfaq is the best place to create content as a long term asset. I have a channel where I havent posted in 2yrs and it has just had a huge surge in subs and watch hours with just 12 videos.

Instagram was my main platform but the constant ads and poor algorithm was overwhelming. I started posting on KZfaq without worrying about the content or how it would "perform". I'd say I have been in creative bliss lately without all those worries. I started to create for myself again

I’m so tired of short form - algorithms and shadowbans and negativity not only from the trolls but the actual platforms. A lot of us are tired of trying to change the world in 30 seconds! I’ve been thinking about how to make this change back into long form and this video is very encouraging. One video a week it is. Thank you!

I've learnt 3D printing, coding and how to build a gaming pc entirely on youtube from scratch, this are just random examples. I love this platform

"Get in the habit of creating" is fantastic advice. Thank you for the reminder!

I couldn’t have put it better myself, this is exactly why my husband and I started our channel only a few days ago. For US. We don’t can’t if we get followers or likes or whatnot. We just want to connect with like minded people and expand on our knowledge in this community while making memories! Thank you for the encouragement and the transparency!

I’m actually a guitar KZfaqr so this was pretty funny when you used that as an example. Agree so much on how KZfaq videos stick around as opposed to instagram and TikTok. I have videos from long ago that suddenly get a boost in views and comments. So if a video I make doesn’t get a lot of views at the start, it doesn’t feel wasted. Just reached 1000 subs a little while ago and it’s growing every day, so it’s a very fun process.

I came across your channel this morning after releasing a video of my own and decided to give it a try to hear your two cents. I think everything you said is exactly right. I’m 2+ years in and find nothing but growth on this platform. I don’t compete, I don’t have envy, I’m not jealous of bigger creators because I am making for me. I’m also grateful to the 4300 people who enjoy what I do, and I think that’s a big difference between KZfaq and the other platforms. I think it’s a community here is quite possibly more valuable than any other platform. Anyhow, I really enjoyed this video, so keep painting and acting and creating because you’re pretty damn good at it.

I have 19 subscribers and am so happy with it in the short time I've been on you tube. This video gives me the encouragement to keep going❤❤ thank you

Ive just come from ‘the land of instant gratification’ and restarting over here and it’s so refreshing. It feels very welcoming and as you say, encourages you to create and grow in a healthy way. Ty. ✨

have to say I agree with you 100%. youtube is where it's at!

Thanks man I’m an older guy with no tech background minimal video editing skills and just started learning to bass fish and doing videos info was great for me I appreciate!!!!!

Bro… I have 147 subscribers and I needed this so much. I couldn’t get myself to record anything for 5 years but yesterday I made 2 vlogs …. Ima go edit them and upload right now ❤️✌🏼 god bless

I discovered many genuine individuals on KZfaq, and it's enjoyable to engage with people, especially creators who interact with their audience. I'm exhausted by the quick pace of short-form content and prefer storytelling like you do. I wish you more success and telling more stories.

It is so refreshing to watch a video on this topic that isn't gimmicky or unrealistic. Thank you for the inspiration

Man this video struck a chord. I can relate here. Got so burnt out trying to keep up on IG that I just quit creating content altogether and just recently I got back into editing videos I shot months ago and really enjoyed it. This was the video I needed to see today to push me back to creating long form content that I enjoy and stop worrying about what’s trending. Thank you!

You just proved your point to me. I clicked on this thinking I'd watch the first few minutes and then click away. You retained me via authenticity and not using overly stimulating cuts, edits, and retention techniques. I watched the entire video. You were simply honest. Well done, and thank you.

I like to think that you left the camera going all night between Day 1 and Day 2 and then edited out 8+ hours of total darkness and silence. Now that would be relatable (to me, anyway). New subscriber, btw.

I've just started with my KZfaq channel and I can identify with what you're saying here. Just want to thank you for the encouragement.

Great job soldier! Continued success!!👊🏾👊🏾👊🏾

I really needed this! I’m a Christian filmmaker wanting to go full time as a creator to share the word of God through a different perspective! Trying to land brands and going viral but now I understand it’s about his time and plan and I just wanna enjoy this process in hope I appreciate you fr God bless you in your business and you blow up!🙏🏾

It's awesome how you mentioned you tried to do YT a few times before, but then you really committed to doing 1 video per week. That's exactly my story right there! I've always wanted to do YT for the longest and have it a few tries but never really committed. Then this year, I decided to go all in and start what I called PROJECT48, where I post at least 1 video per week for the rest of the year (started first week of Feb and from there, there's 48 weeks left in the year...get it? 😅). But yeah just posted my 7th video and have more on the way! Can't wait to see where this YT journey takes me.

Well, I'm in my forties and going out on this limb! Thank you for sharing!

Love it bro. I'm following your journey.

Really happy this showed up on my home page. Thanks for putting yourself out there and giving some insight and words of encouragement.

This is uplifting. I started a channel with no previous history on other platforms and may have had too high expectations in terms of numbers but I came to terms with just focusing on having fun and doing what I want rather than playing the catch up game of mr beast and company.

21 subscribers in! Started my channel 1 week ago and feel extremely good to share my thoughts with everyone so openly! Best of luck to every new KZfaq creator for stepping out of your comfort zone to contribute to the society! Onwards and Upwards!

i am so lucky to have encountered this video, thank you for your amazing words bro i appreciate it, i wish you all the best i am also a small youtube channel doing my thing😁

You nailed it. KZfaq can lift you up when you're down. While other platforms are designed to hook you in and pull you down so low you're desperate...yet addicted, and can't stop scrolling. It's EVIL. You come here, and it's about connection. Those other platforms make me want to take a shower. Keep on keeping it real. Ya got me. I'm subbed!

I agree with you, I started making youtube videos in 2015 maybe, now reaching 20k subscribers. There were times I gave up on it, but always was confused about why youtube encourages “trends” instead of original content creators. Your video gave me a motivation to keep making original content instead of getting carried away by “trending topics”.

I'm pretty convinced that making what you love will bring you happiness. Now, I am working on my channel teaching a new language and I enjoy the process.

I was kinda like you till it clicked for me in February...I started posting consistently...and the growth has been encouraging...now I'm doubling to make more videos that i want to watch... The tip you really need is "START" thanks bro 🔥

Thank you! I needed this. ❤

Man I love your genuinely and the chill talking instead of over fast super edited way. Keep it coming!

LOVE this! You are so real, Darren.

Darren, thank you for this wonderful video! Very heartwarming and inspiring❤I started recording videos myself just a few months ago after quitting drinking and smoking and switching to SR. And it's just recently taken off. Subscribed and will follow your success!

Thanks for this video, Darren. I enjoyed every single moment of it. I hope you grow and see your content (film, painting etc) getting out there to people that love it. I am on KZfaq since almost the beginning of KZfaq. I never saw anything special happening with my channel (i was never consistent with posting every week or every 2 weeks or anything like that) but there are two things I know for sure: 1. Some people have seen and enjoyed my music (that's great, i have no complaint about it) and 2. SOMEDAY, *maybe* one of my songs will get super viral, after 5-10-15 yrs (and if I am dead, my children will earn some money from dad's music lol). The best part of YT is that there is ALWAYS a chance for any video to get discovered and spread. It is not a spreed, it is a marathon (for most creators). But that's also what makes me feel the same, as you: Less pressure. I have been on TikTok , Instagram etc and..... nope, it doesn't work positively for me either. That "trial and error" game is not ok for me. On KZfaq I like the fact that you "plant" something and SOMETIME, if it's worth it, it will "bloom" (sooner or later). So I don't have the stress (of course I don't make a living from it either. It's my hobby... for which I pay of course - to be able to make videos etc -) of waiting to see what happens. I just post and forget.

Just what i needed to hear, thank you! Now im supermotivated to continue this youtube jorney ✌️

Thanks for the incredible video man! I'm right there with you on the short form content, it's an emotional Rollercoaster and I caught myself constantly watching the view counter and letting it dictate how I was going to feel that day! I am a streamer first, video maker second and I was so focused on making "the best" shorts as fast as possible and I was losing the passion I have for streaming and cultivating a relationship with my viewers because of my frustration with short form content. Keep doing your thing man, you'll blow up in no time with your talent and perspective!

Im a newbie and pretty must just came straight out the gate this year doing shorts after no activity for 9 years. I agree with u on how TikTok, IG reels bring that adrenaline rush and pressure, waiting for those likes and gratification. It can be overwhelming. But as u said, YT long form content has a different vibe. I love your story. Thanks for sharing. Definitely subscribing.

This video is what my spirit guides wanted me to see today. I can personally attest this was the reason for my switch and honestly my videos are 4 me and I hope my content finds its audience but this platform gives me more room to be original. I HATE TRENDS. I hate being a follower and I spent YEARS on other platforms & realized psychologically it was stealing my passion; I allowed it bc my focus shifted for the wrong reasons. Thanks for sharing. I’m growing on my main KZfaq channel & I’m really going to keep at it. This was confirmation❤

I appreciate your take on this! I'm really glad I've started on here. Lots of growing pains but it feels totally worth it! Best of luck with your channel!

Thank you for making this video! I just happened to stumble across it and I really resonated with a lot of the things you said. I love how real and transparent you were. I definitely prefer making long form verses short form videos too.

this is exactly where I am. Feeling disengaged from making the same trending VO type comedy. I want to make original content- it’s hard though because it doesn’t get pushed out the same

still trying to find the group of people who will actually enjoy my vids :(

Dude, I subbed Three minutes in and the edits are🔥 Great job

Original, eye-opening, and real. Thank you, Darren. Keep doing what you do.

This was dope. Very similar feelings and ready to create for myself rather than trends or clients

Feeling pretty motivated to keep pulling through on my new channel! Thank you for the realness!

This>>>> I started uploading on my channel in Nov ‘23 after years of having it and finally uploading my ideas as been tremendous for me. My confidence in myself and art has grown and there’s so many creatives here that are actually supportive. Congratulations on your milestone(s). Looking forward to more of your art.

Loved the video and totally agree. It does get discouraging when you post something and doesn’t pop off right away but you just gotta stick with it and make sure you’re enjoying it. I’m loving KZfaq more than the other platforms mostly cause my content seems to do better here. I Hope to keep growing and learn how to improve from others.

I needed this today. Thank you.

Authenticity is just the newest buzz word.

Thanks for popping up on my feed and great advice. Good luck and I am inspired by KZfaqrs like you.

Love the nuggets you shared. This truly has eased my mind and anxiety as a new content creator. Best wishes on all your endeavors.

Great video, man! Really glad I saw this! I’m in the same boat, for years I have been wanting to take KZfaq more seriously, but I’ve never done so. I ended up getting wrapped up in the world of professional videography, clients, projects, and never once focused on myself. I just moved from Miami to Fort Myers just a couple of days ago, and I have decided that enough is enough, it’s time to content for me! Keep up the great work!

heck yeah dude! I have been on KZfaq since 2008. Watching and learning for years, not realizing I missed about half a dozen opportunities I could have created content around. Now I am just enjoying the process and let the growth happen organically. This is a marathon, not a sprint, so patience is a must. Keep rocking the videos dude and I just subbed to you!

First time viewer, watching you walk by with the tree in the morning marked Feb 1st. Got me so good. Keep up the good content!

This video spoke to me on so many levels and came at the perfect time. Instant sub, thank you.

nice one Darren. You're cool ;)

I love it when smaller channels pop up in my feed. Thanks for sharing your experience! I am an artist who just re-started my channel and I’ve felt the same about other platforms. I like your video style and your sense of humour. Best of luck to you in the youtube sphere 😊

I resonate so much with this!! I used to be feel pressured to make short, viral content. Now I like taking it slow and making content that makes me happy that I know will be my life’s work. 🥰

needed to watch this. thank you man

Fellow painter/filmmaker here - I appreciate your perspective. It's a good reminder that if I just create the types of videos I was searching for way back when, my channel will naturally evolve into what it's meant to be - whatever that is.

Frustrating for me... I have 150+ videos...16k watch hours and 1033 subscribers....but only 1 has gone viral and unfortunately (regardless of my audio remastering efforts), KZfaq doesn't consider it enough of a change and flags it as REUSE (versus, putting up a silly "reaction" video on same content) and thus has denied me monetization twice now. I hate that I have no one to discuss this with and end up making changes and then having to wait another 3 months to reapply and get the same response regardless of my appeal video content and putting up tons of original material since first monetization denial. SO FRUSTRATING! Subbed - Really enjoyed the video Darren.

I’ve never subscribed so fast! Thoroughly enjoyed your perspective. Inspired to start!

This video was very much needed! Thank you for sharing! 😊

Nice seeing real people doing real things. Keep going.

Bitcoin is on its way to breaking records, getting closer to hitting new high prices, showing that it's gaining more value and could go even higher than we've seen before. This could mean great things for people looking to invest, suggesting now might be a good time to get involved before it jumps even higher. It's an exciting moment that could change the game in general...managed to grow a nest egg of around 2.1Blitcoin to a decent 11.4Biitcoin. At the heart of this evolution is Samantha Jack , whose deep understanding of both cryptocurrency and traditional trading has been instrumental. Her holistic approach to investment and commitment to staying abreast of market trends make her an invaluable ally in navigating this new era in cryptocurrency investment

Your video is what inspired me to just start my channel a couple of days ago! Hope you get more future success!

Great video, Darren! So important to create for yourself. Keep inspiring! 🙌

Thank you! Great video, and I love the mug smile face at the end. 😊

This is what i needed to hear! .. Thanx for input and keep up the good work :)

I appreciate the subtle editing you've done, like the little sound fx and the music getting a little louder when you open the door. Good stuff

Yesss!! Very inspiring 🙌 just the kick I needed

Wow I couldn't relate more. Very true that watching youtube is much more positive and your always learning something new.

I loved this!! Thank you for your advice and sharing your experience so far! This was really helpful 😊

Great video man. As I’ve jumped back into KZfaq these past few months, completely agree with everything you said (especially about the pressure of performing posts)

Great message, Darren! It's so easy to get caught up chasing the likes and instant gratification, but there's something special about just being yourself and putting yourself out there. Happy to find your channel :)

Thanks dude. This video really helps me put things in perspective and reminded me why I do music in the first place. 🙏

Thank you for this video. I’ve just started my channel, and it’s been a really emotional journey in such a short time. I appreciate your words and the way you’re sharing your thoughts. I’ve been experiencing a lot of self doubt, so this video came at the perfect time. I’m just going to keep going and to keep creating in a way that brings me and hopefully others joy. Thank you 🙏🏼

Thank you for creating this video and sending it my way. It was perfect timing. ❤

This video gave me such a lift. Excellent content. I need to surround myself with people like you.

I agree with all of your points so so much! KZfaq is a place where I feel connected to my purpose and I value every single view I get because I know there’s someone on the other side who was searching for the content. Thank you so much for sharing these insights! Cheers to your success and positive impact ❤

Great video man. You prove your point, your authenticity and simplicity kept me in while inspiring me too.

This is so true You tube taught me a lot from photography, film making/cinematic and painting. I found myself spending more time watching You tube videos.

Well done brother! Appreciate the positive encouragement!