Quoted from TheCapn:

I'm in all areas of this hobby. Started with no knowledge about pinball and that has escalated over the last decade to being an operator, restorer, enthusiasts, and content creator. I can tell you right now that the people that create content about pinball are not doing it for money - because there is very little to be made (by views and/or listens alone). This is why you hear many podcasts promote products. My first episode I state that I WILL NOT be doing that. When I chose to do the podcast it was to provide content for those that have asked for it. Some people don't like to watch video and would rather just listen to what I have to say. Others aren't into podcasts (I use to be like that too). I put up a Patreon because I get contacted by people asking how they can donate. I direct them to the silverball swag site for shirts - some don't want/like the shirt and would rather just pitch in a couple of bucks. I have had people ask if I would go full time Youtube - god no. That would suck, because my passion would then become a job which may result in me losing my passion for it. I have never promoted myself as being the almighty best at anything. I'm just a guy like everyone else here - I have decided to put out content is all. But what you state is true, wesman. "..and just hoped people found any value in those things at all." It feels good when others appreciate what you do. You get a little bit of a dopamine hit, and it gives you the feeling of wanting to continue doing it. That appreciation can be shown in different ways. A thumbs up, a good comment, increasing subscriber base and why would money feel any different? Of course with the good - you get the bad. Some people can take the bad, and others just simply can't handle it. That is also why you have seen certain people leave the hobby or drop out of being a content provider.