Crystal at Bag-O-Day Crochet and I share more viewers on YouTube than any other channel. The background stories of what creates a YouTube Host are not always explicit, but in this video released hours ago, Crystal shares that I was her push to start after her husband gave her the seed to begin something new.
My inspiration was a horrible YouTube host. Barely any views were so technical that I couldn't understand what she was talking about as her words didn't match my mother's. I thought, what would I do differently? I didn't put much time into it and just did it.
Initially, when I started, I wanted to kick everyone's ass, but I missed the point and realized in the first year the only competitor was myself. There is space for everyone. Crystal stepped forward and was authentic to herself. She 'got it'.
People have the gift, or they don't. Authenticity cannot be taught; it's within everyone, but not everyone is vulnerable enough to show it. Some people in business are trying to centre the universe around themselves and make it all about them. You can easily see that.
While Crystal and I disagree with some product reviews, everyone who watches has to decide for themselves. What is a 'break' for Crystal may be a 'yay' for me and vice versa. I come from an engineering, manufacturing, and trucking logistics background. I am more forgiving of some elements as I have been in my steel-toe shoes to be part of the processes in some way. I have my thoughts, and so does she. It's why people tune in.
When I officially got sponsored by Yarnspirations, the CEO said, "We don't want a mouthpiece or a spokesperson; we want you to stay as you are without worry of having to love everything they do." I was disappointed for a short time but realized that your authentic voice resonates with people. It's been the best decision overall.
Recently, something earth-shattering happened to me, and I contacted Crystal to let her know about something she could fall victim to. I haven't recovered from it, as I did fall for it. At some point, your competitors must be your allies and work together to protect each other.
So, Crystal, this is me taking a compliment, which is hard, but it's you who did the work. You saw an opportunity and walked through the door. The rest of your journey is yet to be discovered. As you mentioned at the end of the talk, our time is limited. What you did with your time will last into generations ahead, as you gifted your teaching so others can go on and show others, too.
So continue to Inspire, Create and Celebrate. Life is short.
Kathy Crank says
Thanks for this article. You and Crystal taught me to crochet. Crochet became my gateway drug to knitting. My life has been all the better for it.
Debbie Pfannenschmidt says
I found Crystal's channel years ago. Easy to follow videos but the written instructions weren't free to print out. I found your channel and loved the free instructions. I could print the instructions and follow along with your tutorials. I've made many charity and gift items. I've never tried selling anything but have told everyone about the two best crochet instructors that have inspired my creativity and sharpened my skills. I get lots of compliments on what I've made...you both deserve the credit! Many thanks!
Linda Legore says
Mikey you are wonderful, I enjoy listening to you talk and teach. Your new shorts are great! I have been watching Crystal for a couple of years now. There are only two others that I watch. That's enough for me. You and BadODay are the best!