I mention many times during the video, but I'm not necessarily against sponsors or affiliates - especially others doing them. Some people have built fantastic channels and collaborated with great sponsors. That's amazing. I'm not unique in this either - others do this too. It's just a personal preference, and there are some pros and cons I discuss in the video. I also know some content creators watch this channel (some aspiring!) and I wanted to show this as an alternate path they can consider. Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!
The quality and integrity of your work is ever peaking. Congratulations on your ever genuine and honest bussiness model, it will be better for the long term.
I wasn’t expecting this little lesson ! I’m starting to create curriculum for churches and felt led to do the Star Wars model (I call it the Bible Project model). Been tossing it around in my mind and man this so helped! Gold star for you. Also the white board felt on brand instead of a lower third. Felt like Hampton
Hey Hampton! On the topic of unsponsored reviews are you able to review the Duonamic Eleviia, as all the video reviews I see seem to be sponsored and so I am conflicted by it, but it does look like a good product! Or if not that, can you give some recommendation on a door pull up bar/rings setup! I love what you do and your ethos, thanks for helping so many people :)
I would like to add one pro: Your way of doing videos reminds me of the internet before, when everything wasn't about monetization and profit but rather building a community and viewing creation as the most valuable thing. Thank you my friend. Glad to be here. Edit: Have a beautiful day :)
Hampton's approach to balancing a free core product with premium options is a stellar example of how transparency and value can coexist to create a sustainable business model.
0:00 Introduction 0:46 Brief Overview 2:00 "Star Wars" Business Model 4:08 Pros & Cons 5:05 How and Why We Do This 8:10 Pros & Cons (For Real This Time) 12:50 Will This Change in the Future?
I think we're not even understanding how much money Hampton has probably rejected, I mean we're talking a 4M subs channel, he probably gets dozens of sponsorship offers, some of wich, I know by other creators's stories, are in the 6 digits. (Ofc I could be wrong, but just based on views, subs and family friendliness) He's just BUILT DIFFERENT
This really set s Hampton apart from most creators. You rarely meet someone who is so good hearted and intent on helping others. Genuine, wholesome person who helps so many and for all the right reasons. Thanks, Hampton!
Hampton, your knowledge, positivity, proficiency, passion, creativity, compassion, integrity, authenticity, compassion, and comedic spontaneity are amazing examples of the gifts that you share with all of us!!! Thank you more than you will ever know!! Best to you, yours and all your viewers!!
I subscribed for your authenticity, easygoing nature, and humor from the shorts (I’m admitted somewhat sedentary and can’t stand fitness culture) and only just started checking out your free routine and found it very inviting. But this video on your business model was incredibly inspiring and made me trust you even more for your integrity. I’m a writer and have been trying to get an online business going for a few years but found the pressure to produce content frustrating and stressful. Part of the reason for the stress is my tendency to focus on making money quickly, and that focus has not been helpful because it triggers my anxieties. I think this business model focusing on impact and reach and making money from side options makes so much sense. It makes your work accessible while still giving you an income from those who can afford other options. I’m going to keep this in mind as I work on my book and main product. I also just really appreciate your honesty, authenticity, and transparency. I plan to be a paying customer very soon. Thanks Hampton!!
Wow that's awesome! Thank you so much for sharing your story. That really helps and inspires me to do more. The online business thing is actually a big passion of mine and I have a channel where I go more in-depth on it (Hybrid Creators). However, it's been a while since I've uploaded on it and I would like to add more details on there for reference - just in case it can help people. No worries on the paying customer thing - just hope the resources can help you for now! I want to keep making them better.
Thanks! SOME people will just give you money because you're positive and genuine. It's refreshing and rare, so THAT in itself is a commodity. I watch your stuff so I feel good about donating. (Giving with no expectations. Not transactional) Just a gift. Offer stuff you make yourself that you might think people will find useful, but don't spend money on it unless they "pull" it from you. Love you Bro, keep up the good work.
Yes, being paid is a trade off for a product. I understand. Thank you Hampton. You had me when you shared about taking care of your mom. I want to support caregivers who take care of their moms ❤. Your content is wonderful.
This is a very reasonable take on this topic. All the more respect to you Hampton. I myself don't exactly 100% hate sponsorships because people need to make money if this is their job. But like you said that feeling like a content creator is being paid to agree is something that doesn't sit well with me sometimes. Some sponsorships are nicely integrated into the theme of the channel - like a local government sponsoring say a travel influencer to try to boost tourism in that area. But some sponsorships I see youtubers take hardly relate to their channel at all or like you said, seem very shady. For example, there's been an uptick in BetterHelp sponsorships among content creators. And it's always the same lines being said over and over. "I've felt like I needed to care for mental health in the past year and that's why I enlisted BetterHelp to help me with it which you might need too". I won't disagree that we live in an age where more people should be encouraged to seek help mentally and maybe BetterHelp could even help, but ads like these seem downright predatory to me. Which in turn, it's like what you say about your own personal brand potentially being affected. It most definitely affected how I perceived certain content creators I follow.
Your brand, aka how you sell yourself as a person, your gentle positivity, and enthusiasm for your craft, is 100% the reason I'm here. Your values are evident and they resonate, whether you're talking about money or showing me how to exercise. I appreciate your content and the way you share it
Hey Hampton, just stumbled across your channel from the almighty TH-cam algorithm as I'm curious about how content creators earn money. Not a fitness enthusiast myself but your transparency and conviction to protect your time and independent thinking is something I resonate with a lot. A real breath of fresh air from the usual advise to do more, have bigger team, post more videos, get more sponsors, etc. You've also mentioned that all your fitness content is free and that, got my interest. Will subscribe with my lifestyle channel. I also like your reflective and self-aware nature to understand that things might change and you're more open to what your audience more instead of what you think they want. Thanks again Hampton and all the best in your endeavors.
Hey! Thank you for stopping by. No worries at all about not being interested in fitness. We actually have a decent amount of people who feel similarly. They just watch the videos for the vibes. I'm honored by that and the fitness content is there if they ever want it. I really appreciate the kind words - best of luck to your channel and growth!
Your starwars business plan is wonderful it reminds me alot of the book "The go giver" which is a spin on the phrase the go getter. The more you give the more you get in return. Everyone appreciates transparency and its a fantastic thing that you enjoy being authentic.
I just want to say thank you. Not only for the transparency, but also for just being kind enough to teach everyone what's going on and trying to help us find a path toward a better us. You come here saying "Hello friends" but the way you speak to everyone and the way you hold yourself it shows you see everyone like siblings that you want to see succeed. Even though calisthenics aren't my primary form of exercise, it does remind me to keep at my goals and stay kind to others and myself. - So thank you.
Honestly, I think NO sponsors may be hurting more than helping. There is validity in all of your points, but money is how you are going to reach some of your goals. There is no reason you need to take every sponsor thrown at you. You can take your time and be very picky to the sponsor, try out the product, research, and go from there. Best of luck to you!
omg, i liked u a whole bunch already, but this video made me ADORE you!🥰 It's SO refreshing to hear someone with your philosophy and way of looking at things. i agree and support u wholeheartedly, Brother. Keep it coming! (you know, if you want😉). Sending 💖
You're the best. Namely, I really love that you're so transparent. Once I figured out being transparent meant so much in connections, i never stopped. it seriously changed my life, so the way you engage w your audience is just wonderful to see
Personally I love your business model. I found you in shorts and am glad I subscribed. I have bilateral compressed L5 nerve roots and severe osteoarthritis in my pelvic joints and lumbar spine. I have been mostly bed found since Aug 2020. I have found your videos so motivating to make incremental changes. The way you always stress doing what your pain and ability allows instead of pushing through is refreshing and is helping.
I think that regardless if it isn't necessarily the "most efficient most effective best ever" management of your channel, I love that this can stand out as a success story of a channel allowing itself to grow completely naturally and sustainably. The fact that you're doing it differently is in and of itself a valuable contribution to the TH-camr and creator community as a whole. And you make great content, so just phenomenal stuff all around!
Thank you, Hampton! I'm not planning to start a business anytime soon (or maybe ever), but I still watched the whole video, because it inspired me to think about interactions, transactions and relationships in general. It made me realize, that I wanna do an overhaul of my attitude towards others and that I wanna change my habit of mainly thinking about relationships in transactional terms. I'm not sure yet how to cultivate a more altruistic and compassionate outlook on life, but I'm definitely inspired. So thank you for that!
Unfortunately those things are in big part influenced by culture (and most cultures don't rly promote that, to my knowledge), personal traumas, etc. But anyway. Be the change you want to see in the world. (And remember it's, seemingly, unavoidable to fail at that sometimes/make a mistake/have a worse day).
I subscribe to channels when a video indicates two things. Author authenticity, and that the content will be a resource to me or is something that resonates with me. Same reasons I subbed to you.
Thank you for this, I heard many times from you that you don't take sponsorships because of the reason stated and glad that you are still staying true to that belief. Which is why I was curious on how are you earning money but now is clarified. I have been taking on some questionable sponsorships and it didn't feel good but I need the money. Maybe I should be focusing more on brand & trust too. Thank you!
Hampton, thank you for sharing this resource! I've been searching all over youtube for over a year, and this is the most accessible and interesting video about how the business model runs.
00:00 📈 Hampton outlines his income strategy as a content creator, emphasizing the importance of providing free valuable content while offering paid options for those interested. 01:13 💰 He contrasts ad revenue with brand sponsorships, highlighting the simplicity of TH-cam ads versus the added effort of managing brand partnerships. 02:07 🌟 Hampton explains his "Star Wars business model," where he offers valuable content for free, aiming for growth and impact rather than immediate revenue. 03:17 🔄 Instead of sponsorships, Hampton focuses on offering paid options related to his free fitness routine, ensuring financial sustainability while maximizing outreach. 04:25 💡 He emphasizes that many content creators, including himself, turn down sponsorships to maintain integrity and avoid promoting low-quality or scammy products. 05:21 🛡 Hampton values trust and transparency, avoiding sponsorships to maintain unbiased recommendations and genuine content. 08:20 🗝 Trust and freedom are crucial factors in Hampton's decision to avoid sponsorships, allowing him to maintain integrity and control over his content. 10:53 💸 Hampton acknowledges the trade-off of slower growth and financial limitations due to avoiding sponsorships but prioritizes authenticity and independence. 12:05 🌟 While idealistic goals like optimizing for impact over revenue are commendable, Hampton recognizes the balance needed to avoid self-sabotage and remain open-minded. 13:13 🔊 Hampton discusses potential future changes, including exploring custom advertisements for his fitness app, maintaining transparency with his audience.
This is why i follow you man! Transparency is key! Love this ! P s I downloaded the app but would not mind paying a onetime fee to have it ad free. I stopped using it because of the ads. It got to be annoying.
Definitely something we can look into in the future! Currently the ad-free thing is for people who asked to support the app's beta development, but lifetime makes sense too!
I bought your book not knowing, *and not caring*, if it's what I need - as in, if there's any added value over just opening the website. Even more so given that I've bought an ebook. The reason I bought it was gratitude. You've helped me jump the initial entry barrier and helped significantly reduce back pain. When I get to buying the wheels - not quite there yet - I will buy them from you for the same reason.
I wasn't sure if your extremely pleasant demeanor shown in shorts will translate well to long form, but it does. Now I'm absolutely certain you are a joyous human being everyone would be lucky to have around.
your approach to providing value first and building revenue through optional purchases is commendable and a great example of ethical business practices! It’s a powerful reminder that focusing on community and trust can lead to sustainable success. 🌟
Love your content and the community you’ve built and I really like the unsponsored reviews you do. I have no issue with content creators taking sponsorships to do ad reads and such. Money is a necessary tool in the toolbox. Only advice I want to offer is keep being as open and transparent as you are now. And make sure to call out/note when something is a paid sponsor. I feel like most content creators I hear about getting in trouble err on the side of dishonesty by trying to hide their fact they are getting paid to promote something. They use hype and disregard disclosures of any conflicts of interest. I don’t see you falling in that trap. But it is something you’d have to navigate if you want your keep doing unsponsored reviews and take sponsorships. Again, love everything you’ve created and all the learnings on calisthenics and life from your content have really helped me change my own life. I’d love to see the app grow more. Your calisthenics routine has become foundational for my own fitness routine.
Love your content! I have been watching Hybrid Calisthenics for a couple years now and I hope it continues to grow even more. I'm mainly commenting to increase engagement a tiny bit in a free way and express a bit of appreciation :)
I feel this way about my own channel too. I’m glad I’m not alone. I’m a single person channel and hope I won’t have to have a team. With that, I know I’ll grow super slow but I rather it be authentic then on promises I don’t know I can keep.. your people really show up for you. I can see you only gaining more subs.
Congrats on 4 mill subs!!!! 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉😊❤ Really wise video. 😊 Btw I am doing some form of hybrid work out right now, some sets are bodyweight, others with weights (just love the feeling of lifting heavy stuff hehe). Through your videos, I understood the importance of good form over number of reps, and that a higher number of reps with good form of a variation where you can do a higher number of reps are needed to build strength etc with pure bodyweight.
I was always wondering how you made any kind of money doing this business for free and without sponsors for a long time so I’m glad you made this. I doubt anyone would even mind if you did sponsors because you’ve been so transparent, it would have to mean you REALLY like the sponsored product (ideally). Thanks for sharing!
This video! This video is why Hampton is the best exercise content creator that I know. The is honest, wholesome, ethical, and encouraging. There is no down-talking to the audience. No grunting, shaking, or veins looking like they are going to burst. No negativity. No sexy spandex or "gym bro" attitude. No selling of dodgy or possibly harmful supplements. Just the praising of the benefits of exercise and positive encouragement, no matter what level you are. I want to purchase from Hampton just to help support him keep spreading positivity in the world.
You are truly amazing, youre so humble. I think many of your viewers watch you not only because your content is helpful, but i think they watch you because of you as a person. I definitely do. ❤
You make a lot of us happier and healthier. I wish you all the best in your endeavors and I hope that you always stay optimistic and team/community-oriented
It’s the Miracle on 34th Street effect for another example. In the 90s version of the film a mother says she’d be shopping at that store for everything but “toilet paper and bananas” after she learned the store cared more about the customer than the profit (thanks to Santa) which ended up increasing their profits rather than reducing. When people know you care they’ll be loyal at any price.
I really appreciate your integrity and honesty, Hampton. But if you ever decide to accept sponsorships, I'm sure that you'll handle them in a fun, interesting, and ethical manner. You've already mentioned some great ideas for using the additional funds. Perhaps you could even allocate a fixed percentage of the sponsorship money to different charities (discussing the charity in the video, helping to spread the word about their cause), and/or provide bonuses for your team. Either way, I trust you'll find the most thoughtful and beneficial ways to use the funds to improve the lives of others ❤
So my brother bought me one of your books and I really liked it! Looked online and found some of your content and now after watching this video my respect for you has gone through the roof!! Really appreciate the transparency and your wholesome feelings
I feel the same! I don’t take any money for classes or treatments so that there is no conflicts of interest. My only interest is in helping. I make a living through donations and other jobs. Nobody wonders if I’m pushing anything. 💙
I will express my opinion on sponsorship with an anecdote 👍 I work in shoes and there are products that will never be right for me because my feet just aren't the shape those products are made for. For example, we have heel bumpers which are for people with narrow heels (I have wide feet, including my heels) that I'll never get to try. One of my co-workers swears by them, but is also low-key a compulsive liar so I told the customer that my co-worker said they worked great for keeping heel slippage from happening when the shoe fits the rest of the foot properly but that I'd love if she could come tell me how it felt after a week or so. She did! She came back and told me it worked fantastically, and I've now had a few customers say the same thing and so now I recommend it all the time when it seems clear that it's the right tool to accommodate the fit. I feel like a similar approach is possible in this context, like, if I got offered a sponsorship for something that sounded cool that I'd never tried I'd either ask to try it first or ask my viewers to let me know in the comments if they've had experience with it because it sounds neat and then go from there. Sponsors working with me would have to deal with me wanting to have either short contracts or trial periods so that I can feel them out a bit 😛
Wow among all the physical skills you have, you have a big heart and a really wise mind!💪🏻❤ This is how business should be DONE. Actually providing value to people.💯
I’m watching something I’m into (irritating ad), trying to get back into the same headspace(irritating ad), repeat. A video with ads was probably enjoyed less. With all the options out there, even a little less might be enough to switch people away. I personally like Amazon storefronts as a "monitizer" since it's a link that I can go to if I want and ignore if I don't.
Wish you could have taught me math in elementary and high school. How much further would I have made it and much more would I have learned if my math teacher ended every lesson with have a beautiful day. I have even more respect and admiration for you this is awesome thank you!!
👏😊👍 Thank you! I don't think taking a sponsorship is all bad, but I do see how it adds uncertainty for you. I appreciate your candidness and desire to be authentic and 100% honest. I admire that in you, as well as your desire to help people. 😊❤
I really, really enjoy your content. I share your vids all the time. If this is what is working for you, it keeps me coming back and sharing! Thank you!!
This makes me think of the adage that "the older you get, the more conservative you get", which I don't think is accurate at all. However, with age you get another sense of what you need. I don't wanna use the words "idealism" vs "realism" here but my grasp of English is somewhat lacking before coffee, so those terms will have to do. The point I wanted to make is this: with age, your idealism gets tempered by reality. Like, yes, I would absolutely work as a therapist for free, but I have bills to pay, so I need to keep that in mind too. Really Hampton, thank you for being a great example of this.
Thank you, Hampton Sensei. This is definitely one of the best videos I’ve seen both from you and on this platform. You reminded me about the humility and honesty that should be in all of us. I’ve been so focused on money that it blinds me to so much else out there that is so much more valuable. Money helps, sure, but I never want to lose who I am or want to be for the sake of earning an income. Once again, thank you for who you are and for your humble message. Keep it up 💯
Ironically, this is a smart business model because the fact that Hampton is so generous and wholesome actually makes me WANNA buy his stuff (and I do not usually buy stuff from content creators).
The first time I heard a large creator refusing to take sponsorships was Jenna Marbles. I never thought it was scammy or weird until she talked about why she doesn't do ads or sponsors, I just thought it was a normal part of content creation. I was also pretty young when I bought face scrubs and make-up stuff that a creator was sponsored by and was very disappointed in the quality of the products. That's when I realized, oh, they don't actually have to like the product, they just get a cut of the sales, and then I felt a little ick. I'm glad this is more common knowledge now because it certainly wasn't early on.
I mention many times during the video, but I'm not necessarily against sponsors or affiliates - especially others doing them. Some people have built fantastic channels and collaborated with great sponsors. That's amazing. I'm not unique in this either - others do this too. It's just a personal preference, and there are some pros and cons I discuss in the video.
I also know some content creators watch this channel (some aspiring!) and I wanted to show this as an alternate path they can consider.
Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!
dw bro your content always give me a smile! ☺
The quality and integrity of your work is ever peaking.
Congratulations on your ever genuine and honest bussiness model, it will be better for the long term.
I wasn’t expecting this little lesson ! I’m starting to create curriculum for churches and felt led to do the Star Wars model (I call it the Bible Project model). Been tossing it around in my mind and man this so helped! Gold star for you. Also the white board felt on brand instead of a lower third. Felt like Hampton
“Star Wars Model” works, an alternative could be the “Sesame Street Model”.
Hey Hampton! On the topic of unsponsored reviews are you able to review the Duonamic Eleviia, as all the video reviews I see seem to be sponsored and so I am conflicted by it, but it does look like a good product! Or if not that, can you give some recommendation on a door pull up bar/rings setup! I love what you do and your ethos, thanks for helping so many people :)
Dude went from teaching us calisthenics in a beginner-friendly way to teaching us business models in a beginner-friendly way
❤
How special is that
I love it. I always wonder how some channels make money, and I like that he's transparent about it.
You CAN do business my friend!
And threw in a lesson on decent moral standards.
I would like to add one pro:
Your way of doing videos reminds me of the internet before, when everything wasn't about monetization and profit but rather building a community and viewing creation as the most valuable thing.
Thank you my friend. Glad to be here.
Edit: Have a beautiful day :)
a channel of this size with no sponsors. Dude is changing the definition of wholesome single handedly.
Hampton's approach to balancing a free core product with premium options is a stellar example of how transparency and value can coexist to create a sustainable business model.
Hey, how do you have the verification badge without 100k subscribers?
No, the symbol is legit
@@m0-m0597 But how? 100k subscribers is the minimum requirement
@@m0-m0597 but 100k subscribers is the minimum requirement. So how?
@@m0-m0597 but how
Transparency is so refreshing from content creators. We love you, Hampton! 🥰
Yes luv Hampton
0:00 Introduction
0:46 Brief Overview
2:00 "Star Wars" Business Model
4:08 Pros & Cons
5:05 How and Why We Do This
8:10 Pros & Cons (For Real This Time)
12:50 Will This Change in the Future?
ahem gotta like it or it will lose with the other comments haha
Hampton, you’re the best! ❤
@@adltjeremy I've put the same thing in the description, don't worry! This is just for people scrolling the comments. Hope you're doing well!
@@HybridCalisthenics😍😍😍😅
I think we're not even understanding how much money Hampton has probably rejected, I mean we're talking a 4M subs channel, he probably gets dozens of sponsorship offers, some of wich, I know by other creators's stories, are in the 6 digits.
(Ofc I could be wrong, but just based on views, subs and family friendliness)
He's just BUILT DIFFERENT
This really set s Hampton apart from most creators. You rarely meet someone who is so good hearted and intent on helping others. Genuine, wholesome person who helps so many and for all the right reasons. Thanks, Hampton!
Huh. I swear he was under a million two years ago when i subscribed. Good on him! (And his team)
@@oz_jones right? I thought so too.
He goes over this 4 minutes into the video and points out that he's not built different. lol
@@Oddigan nah that's just modesty.
Hampton, your knowledge, positivity, proficiency, passion, creativity, compassion, integrity, authenticity, compassion, and comedic spontaneity are amazing examples of the gifts that you share with all of us!!! Thank you more than you will ever know!! Best to you, yours and all your viewers!!
Thank you so much for your kind words 🙏. I really appreciate you being here - you all make everything we're doing possible. So thank YOU!
I subscribed for your authenticity, easygoing nature, and humor from the shorts (I’m admitted somewhat sedentary and can’t stand fitness culture) and only just started checking out your free routine and found it very inviting. But this video on your business model was incredibly inspiring and made me trust you even more for your integrity. I’m a writer and have been trying to get an online business going for a few years but found the pressure to produce content frustrating and stressful. Part of the reason for the stress is my tendency to focus on making money quickly, and that focus has not been helpful because it triggers my anxieties. I think this business model focusing on impact and reach and making money from side options makes so much sense. It makes your work accessible while still giving you an income from those who can afford other options. I’m going to keep this in mind as I work on my book and main product. I also just really appreciate your honesty, authenticity, and transparency. I plan to be a paying customer very soon. Thanks Hampton!!
Wow that's awesome! Thank you so much for sharing your story. That really helps and inspires me to do more. The online business thing is actually a big passion of mine and I have a channel where I go more in-depth on it (Hybrid Creators). However, it's been a while since I've uploaded on it and I would like to add more details on there for reference - just in case it can help people. No worries on the paying customer thing - just hope the resources can help you for now! I want to keep making them better.
Clever business model, provide value to your customers and they will come back to more.
All the best Hampton
Thanks! SOME people will just give you money because you're positive and genuine. It's refreshing and rare, so THAT in itself is a commodity. I watch your stuff so I feel good about donating. (Giving with no expectations. Not transactional) Just a gift. Offer stuff you make yourself that you might think people will find useful, but don't spend money on it unless they "pull" it from you. Love you Bro, keep up the good work.
Cheers! Thank you very much for being here and for your kind words. Love you too!
My friend, I appreciate your positivity and approach to your content. Thank you.
I would watch a "Hybrid business" channel in a heartbeat
One of the people online with the most integrity I have seen. You continue to inspire a lot of people.
💯
I appreciate how genuine you are! Seriously, thank you for being positive and realistic.
Yes, being paid is a trade off for a product. I understand. Thank you Hampton. You had me when you shared about taking care of your mom. I want to support caregivers who take care of their moms ❤. Your content is wonderful.
This is a very reasonable take on this topic. All the more respect to you Hampton. I myself don't exactly 100% hate sponsorships because people need to make money if this is their job. But like you said that feeling like a content creator is being paid to agree is something that doesn't sit well with me sometimes. Some sponsorships are nicely integrated into the theme of the channel - like a local government sponsoring say a travel influencer to try to boost tourism in that area. But some sponsorships I see youtubers take hardly relate to their channel at all or like you said, seem very shady. For example, there's been an uptick in BetterHelp sponsorships among content creators. And it's always the same lines being said over and over. "I've felt like I needed to care for mental health in the past year and that's why I enlisted BetterHelp to help me with it which you might need too". I won't disagree that we live in an age where more people should be encouraged to seek help mentally and maybe BetterHelp could even help, but ads like these seem downright predatory to me. Which in turn, it's like what you say about your own personal brand potentially being affected. It most definitely affected how I perceived certain content creators I follow.
Your brand, aka how you sell yourself as a person, your gentle positivity, and enthusiasm for your craft, is 100% the reason I'm here. Your values are evident and they resonate, whether you're talking about money or showing me how to exercise. I appreciate your content and the way you share it
Hey Hampton, just stumbled across your channel from the almighty TH-cam algorithm as I'm curious about how content creators earn money.
Not a fitness enthusiast myself but your transparency and conviction to protect your time and independent thinking is something I resonate with a lot. A real breath of fresh air from the usual advise to do more, have bigger team, post more videos, get more sponsors, etc.
You've also mentioned that all your fitness content is free and that, got my interest. Will subscribe with my lifestyle channel.
I also like your reflective and self-aware nature to understand that things might change and you're more open to what your audience more instead of what you think they want.
Thanks again Hampton and all the best in your endeavors.
Hey! Thank you for stopping by. No worries at all about not being interested in fitness. We actually have a decent amount of people who feel similarly. They just watch the videos for the vibes. I'm honored by that and the fitness content is there if they ever want it.
I really appreciate the kind words - best of luck to your channel and growth!
Seeing the time of day change throughout the video also gives good perspective for how damn long shooting takes. Thanks!
Something something BetterHelp something. Good on you, allows you full honesty and control, rather than _potentially_ compromising your channel.
Your starwars business plan is wonderful it reminds me alot of the book "The go giver" which is a spin on the phrase the go getter. The more you give the more you get in return. Everyone appreciates transparency and its a fantastic thing that you enjoy being authentic.
I just want to say thank you. Not only for the transparency, but also for just being kind enough to teach everyone what's going on and trying to help us find a path toward a better us. You come here saying "Hello friends" but the way you speak to everyone and the way you hold yourself it shows you see everyone like siblings that you want to see succeed. Even though calisthenics aren't my primary form of exercise, it does remind me to keep at my goals and stay kind to others and myself. - So thank you.
You are one of my favorite youtubers and I love that I feel you are being genuine and not profit seeking, trusting that things will work out.
The sole purpose of a business is to make profits..
i found your long form stuff first, i appreciate what y'all do
I bought a t-shirt and your book in large part because your business model makes me happy to be part of. Your content leads the way.
Thank you so much! I hope they work well for you!
Honestly, I think NO sponsors may be hurting more than helping. There is validity in all of your points, but money is how you are going to reach some of your goals. There is no reason you need to take every sponsor thrown at you. You can take your time and be very picky to the sponsor, try out the product, research, and go from there. Best of luck to you!
omg, i liked u a whole bunch already, but this video made me ADORE you!🥰 It's SO refreshing to hear someone with your philosophy and way of looking at things. i agree and support u wholeheartedly, Brother. Keep it coming! (you know, if you want😉). Sending 💖
I appreciate your business' dedication to authenticity and transparency. Thank you.
You're the best. Namely, I really love that you're so transparent. Once I figured out being transparent meant so much in connections, i never stopped. it seriously changed my life, so the way you engage w your audience is just wonderful to see
Always loved your transparency,
You're always willing to help others anyway you can
Personally I love your business model. I found you in shorts and am glad I subscribed.
I have bilateral compressed L5 nerve roots and severe osteoarthritis in my pelvic joints and lumbar spine. I have been mostly bed found since Aug 2020. I have found your videos so motivating to make incremental changes. The way you always stress doing what your pain and ability allows instead of pushing through is refreshing and is helping.
Your authenticity and transparency is so refreshing and wonderful, I really appreciate that about you and your content!
I think that regardless if it isn't necessarily the "most efficient most effective best ever" management of your channel, I love that this can stand out as a success story of a channel allowing itself to grow completely naturally and sustainably. The fact that you're doing it differently is in and of itself a valuable contribution to the TH-camr and creator community as a whole.
And you make great content, so just phenomenal stuff all around!
Thank you, Hampton! I'm not planning to start a business anytime soon (or maybe ever), but I still watched the whole video, because it inspired me to think about interactions, transactions and relationships in general. It made me realize, that I wanna do an overhaul of my attitude towards others and that I wanna change my habit of mainly thinking about relationships in transactional terms. I'm not sure yet how to cultivate a more altruistic and compassionate outlook on life, but I'm definitely inspired. So thank you for that!
I'm glad you are running your business so that it alligns with your values instead of just chasing money.
Respect!
Imagine how amazing life could be if more of us lived with integrity and actual consideration for other people a la Hampton 😃
Unfortunately those things are in big part influenced by culture (and most cultures don't rly promote that, to my knowledge), personal traumas, etc. But anyway.
Be the change you want to see in the world. (And remember it's, seemingly, unavoidable to fail at that sometimes/make a mistake/have a worse day).
The fact that you don't plug all the worthless "wellness" products that make the rounds on youtube definitely made me buy into your videos a lot more.
I subscribe to channels when a video indicates two things. Author authenticity, and that the content will be a resource to me or is something that resonates with me. Same reasons I subbed to you.
Thank you for this, I heard many times from you that you don't take sponsorships because of the reason stated and glad that you are still staying true to that belief. Which is why I was curious on how are you earning money but now is clarified.
I have been taking on some questionable sponsorships and it didn't feel good but I need the money. Maybe I should be focusing more on brand & trust too. Thank you!
Hampton, thank you for sharing this resource! I've been searching all over youtube for over a year, and this is the most accessible and interesting video about how the business model runs.
00:00 📈 Hampton outlines his income strategy as a content creator, emphasizing the importance of providing free valuable content while offering paid options for those interested.
01:13 💰 He contrasts ad revenue with brand sponsorships, highlighting the simplicity of TH-cam ads versus the added effort of managing brand partnerships.
02:07 🌟 Hampton explains his "Star Wars business model," where he offers valuable content for free, aiming for growth and impact rather than immediate revenue.
03:17 🔄 Instead of sponsorships, Hampton focuses on offering paid options related to his free fitness routine, ensuring financial sustainability while maximizing outreach.
04:25 💡 He emphasizes that many content creators, including himself, turn down sponsorships to maintain integrity and avoid promoting low-quality or scammy products.
05:21 🛡 Hampton values trust and transparency, avoiding sponsorships to maintain unbiased recommendations and genuine content.
08:20 🗝 Trust and freedom are crucial factors in Hampton's decision to avoid sponsorships, allowing him to maintain integrity and control over his content.
10:53 💸 Hampton acknowledges the trade-off of slower growth and financial limitations due to avoiding sponsorships but prioritizes authenticity and independence.
12:05 🌟 While idealistic goals like optimizing for impact over revenue are commendable, Hampton recognizes the balance needed to avoid self-sabotage and remain open-minded.
13:13 🔊 Hampton discusses potential future changes, including exploring custom advertisements for his fitness app, maintaining transparency with his audience.
This is why i follow you man! Transparency is key! Love this !
P s I downloaded the app but would not mind paying a onetime fee to have it ad free. I stopped using it because of the ads. It got to be annoying.
Definitely something we can look into in the future! Currently the ad-free thing is for people who asked to support the app's beta development, but lifetime makes sense too!
@@hellohampton thank you !!!!!!
@@ColombianLNP thank you for your kind words and for trying the app!
@@hellohampton no thank you !!! You are the best !
the world needs way more people of integrity like you
I bought your book not knowing, *and not caring*, if it's what I need - as in, if there's any added value over just opening the website. Even more so given that I've bought an ebook. The reason I bought it was gratitude. You've helped me jump the initial entry barrier and helped significantly reduce back pain. When I get to buying the wheels - not quite there yet - I will buy them from you for the same reason.
I wasn't sure if your extremely pleasant demeanor shown in shorts will translate well to long form, but it does. Now I'm absolutely certain you are a joyous human being everyone would be lucky to have around.
Can’t wait to see the direction you’ll take, but no matter what I will always be a fan! Keep up the positivity and good work. Have a beautiful day!!!
You have a beautiful day as well!
your approach to providing value first and building revenue through optional purchases is commendable and a great example of ethical business practices! It’s a powerful reminder that focusing on community and trust can lead to sustainable success. 🌟
Love your content and the community you’ve built and I really like the unsponsored reviews you do. I have no issue with content creators taking sponsorships to do ad reads and such. Money is a necessary tool in the toolbox. Only advice I want to offer is keep being as open and transparent as you are now. And make sure to call out/note when something is a paid sponsor. I feel like most content creators I hear about getting in trouble err on the side of dishonesty by trying to hide their fact they are getting paid to promote something. They use hype and disregard disclosures of any conflicts of interest. I don’t see you falling in that trap. But it is something you’d have to navigate if you want your keep doing unsponsored reviews and take sponsorships.
Again, love everything you’ve created and all the learnings on calisthenics and life from your content have really helped me change my own life. I’d love to see the app grow more. Your calisthenics routine has become foundational for my own fitness routine.
Brother you are being criminally honest
Love your content! I have been watching Hybrid Calisthenics for a couple years now and I hope it continues to grow even more. I'm mainly commenting to increase engagement a tiny bit in a free way and express a bit of appreciation :)
Downloaded the app, excited to use it. You and your team deserve nothing but the best ❤
Been popping in and out for years. You’ve grown so much! Well done!!!!!
I feel this way about my own channel too. I’m glad I’m not alone. I’m a single person channel and hope I won’t have to have a team. With that, I know I’ll grow super slow but I rather it be authentic then on promises I don’t know I can keep.. your people really show up for you. I can see you only gaining more subs.
Congrats on 4 mill subs!!!! 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉😊❤
Really wise video. 😊
Btw I am doing some form of hybrid work out right now, some sets are bodyweight, others with weights (just love the feeling of lifting heavy stuff hehe). Through your videos, I understood the importance of good form over number of reps, and that a higher number of reps with good form of a variation where you can do a higher number of reps are needed to build strength etc with pure bodyweight.
Integrity is everything.I love this video!❤
Allah Bless you bro! Your genuiness shines through. Sponsors aren’t bad as long as you filter. Embrace the wealth you much deserve bro
So, rocket scientist here: can i suspend my 'gravity subscription' for a month? I just need to free up some energy for other pursuits
Good ol fashion transparancy! ❤
I was always wondering how you made any kind of money doing this business for free and without sponsors for a long time so I’m glad you made this. I doubt anyone would even mind if you did sponsors because you’ve been so transparent, it would have to mean you REALLY like the sponsored product (ideally).
Thanks for sharing!
This video! This video is why Hampton is the best exercise content creator that I know. The is honest, wholesome, ethical, and encouraging. There is no down-talking to the audience. No grunting, shaking, or veins looking like they are going to burst. No negativity. No sexy spandex or "gym bro" attitude. No selling of dodgy or possibly harmful supplements. Just the praising of the benefits of exercise and positive encouragement, no matter what level you are. I want to purchase from Hampton just to help support him keep spreading positivity in the world.
You are truly amazing, youre so humble. I think many of your viewers watch you not only because your content is helpful, but i think they watch you because of you as a person. I definitely do. ❤
Awesome... love everything about this video.
Your content calms me down. Especially "coffie with Hampton" so I just wanna say. Thank you, that's all
appreciate the honesty, definitely a rare trait nowadays to have a transparent content creator
I'm glad to know I follow at least one creator who won't be shilling for betterhelp
Very neat and clean no nonsense channel.. I highly appreciate this guy is wise
Thanks for this, very refreshing to hear as more paywalls are being constructed everywhere.
we trust you, you can take a sponsor, and if you tell us you already used it and enjoyed it and we'll trust you
Thanks Hampton! This isn't typically the type of video I'd normally watch but it's really great to get this little bit of insight into your world.
He has integrity! That’s a valuable thing to behold!
You make a lot of us happier and healthier. I wish you all the best in your endeavors and I hope that you always stay optimistic and team/community-oriented
It’s the Miracle on 34th Street effect for another example. In the 90s version of the film a mother says she’d be shopping at that store for everything but “toilet paper and bananas” after she learned the store cared more about the customer than the profit (thanks to Santa) which ended up increasing their profits rather than reducing. When people know you care they’ll be loyal at any price.
I really appreciate your integrity and honesty, Hampton. But if you ever decide to accept sponsorships, I'm sure that you'll handle them in a fun, interesting, and ethical manner. You've already mentioned some great ideas for using the additional funds. Perhaps you could even allocate a fixed percentage of the sponsorship money to different charities (discussing the charity in the video, helping to spread the word about their cause), and/or provide bonuses for your team. Either way, I trust you'll find the most thoughtful and beneficial ways to use the funds to improve the lives of others ❤
So my brother bought me one of your books and I really liked it! Looked online and found some of your content and now after watching this video my respect for you has gone through the roof!! Really appreciate the transparency and your wholesome feelings
I feel the same!
I don’t take any money for classes or treatments so that there is no conflicts of interest. My only interest is in helping. I make a living through donations and other jobs. Nobody wonders if I’m pushing anything. 💙
Freedom, Trust and Time.
These things are important to me ❤
I will express my opinion on sponsorship with an anecdote 👍 I work in shoes and there are products that will never be right for me because my feet just aren't the shape those products are made for. For example, we have heel bumpers which are for people with narrow heels (I have wide feet, including my heels) that I'll never get to try. One of my co-workers swears by them, but is also low-key a compulsive liar so I told the customer that my co-worker said they worked great for keeping heel slippage from happening when the shoe fits the rest of the foot properly but that I'd love if she could come tell me how it felt after a week or so. She did! She came back and told me it worked fantastically, and I've now had a few customers say the same thing and so now I recommend it all the time when it seems clear that it's the right tool to accommodate the fit. I feel like a similar approach is possible in this context, like, if I got offered a sponsorship for something that sounded cool that I'd never tried I'd either ask to try it first or ask my viewers to let me know in the comments if they've had experience with it because it sounds neat and then go from there. Sponsors working with me would have to deal with me wanting to have either short contracts or trial periods so that I can feel them out a bit 😛
That's a great story and a good approach if we ever go with sponsors, I think!
@@HybridCalisthenics after years of you giving my family great advice in your videos, I'm glad I could offer you a good idea as well 😁
amazing how you're prospering almost solely just from good vibes haha
Wow among all the physical skills you have, you have a big heart and a really wise mind!💪🏻❤ This is how business should be DONE. Actually providing value to people.💯
Fan of this channel because of the positivity, and nothing else. Hope it continues to grow for the same reason.
Thank you for sharing this
I’m watching something I’m into (irritating ad), trying to get back into the same headspace(irritating ad), repeat. A video with ads was probably enjoyed less. With all the options out there, even a little less might be enough to switch people away. I personally like Amazon storefronts as a "monitizer" since it's a link that I can go to if I want and ignore if I don't.
Wish you could have taught me math in elementary and high school. How much further would I have made it and much more would I have learned if my math teacher ended every lesson with have a beautiful day. I have even more respect and admiration for you this is awesome thank you!!
I needed to see and hear this - you articulated it all so well, so thank you Hampton! 💪
👏😊👍 Thank you! I don't think taking a sponsorship is all bad, but I do see how it adds uncertainty for you. I appreciate your candidness and desire to be authentic and 100% honest. I admire that in you, as well as your desire to help people. 😊❤
I really, really enjoy your content. I share your vids all the time. If this is what is working for you, it keeps me coming back and sharing! Thank you!!
"self sabotage myself" from the same great studio that brought you "don't fall into a pitfall" 😂
This makes me think of the adage that "the older you get, the more conservative you get", which I don't think is accurate at all.
However, with age you get another sense of what you need. I don't wanna use the words "idealism" vs "realism" here but my grasp of English is somewhat lacking before coffee, so those terms will have to do. The point I wanted to make is this: with age, your idealism gets tempered by reality. Like, yes, I would absolutely work as a therapist for free, but I have bills to pay, so I need to keep that in mind too.
Really Hampton, thank you for being a great example of this.
Thank you, Hampton Sensei. This is definitely one of the best videos I’ve seen both from you and on this platform. You reminded me about the humility and honesty that should be in all of us. I’ve been so focused on money that it blinds me to so much else out there that is so much more valuable. Money helps, sure, but I never want to lose who I am or want to be for the sake of earning an income. Once again, thank you for who you are and for your humble message. Keep it up 💯
Ironically, this is a smart business model because the fact that Hampton is so generous and wholesome actually makes me WANNA buy his stuff (and I do not usually buy stuff from content creators).
Great video! Keep up the positive vibes.
And here I thought it was your inspirationally positive attitude and amazing hair! Either way, you keep being amazing! 👍
Hey! You’re a natural teacher! You make complex things look and seem easy 😊
In a world of malls Hamptop is a meadow. The transparency and principles as so refreshing, thank you!
Hampton, thank you for this video. I've started posting fitness content myself and this gave me a lot of ideas for where it may go in the future.
Love the behind the scenes :)
Thanks Hampton for all the work and sharing!
Integrity can't be bought or sold, always enjoy your talks and thoughts and with over 4 million subscribers, I am pretty sure that I am not alone.
The first time I heard a large creator refusing to take sponsorships was Jenna Marbles. I never thought it was scammy or weird until she talked about why she doesn't do ads or sponsors, I just thought it was a normal part of content creation. I was also pretty young when I bought face scrubs and make-up stuff that a creator was sponsored by and was very disappointed in the quality of the products. That's when I realized, oh, they don't actually have to like the product, they just get a cut of the sales, and then I felt a little ick. I'm glad this is more common knowledge now because it certainly wasn't early on.