Year-End Reflections and Viewer Questions Answered
As we approach the end of the year, it's a time for reflection and answering some of the most pressing questions from my audience. This article aims to distill the key points from my recent video where I addressed viewer inquiries, shared insights into my channel's growth, and discussed some broader topics affecting serving personnel.
First, I want to take a moment to express gratitude to the nearly 10,000 subscribers on my channel and the over 14,000 followers on Instagram. Your support is what drives this channel's growth, allowing it to reach more individuals and provide a positive impact on the lives of serving personnel and their families. I also promised a giveaway to mark our growth milestone once we hit 10,000 subscribers, so make sure to stay tuned for that!
As with any growing platform, some criticism tends to come along as well. While negative comments may occasionally surface, they often reflect the viewer's discomfort with the topics discussed rather than a personal attack on me. Interestingly, I’ve found that many critics are puzzled admirers, and I appreciate their engagement since it helps expand our community.
A recurring question I received was about my earnings for 2024. My primary source of income stems from ad revenue, which has averaged around £4 for every 1,000 views, translating to approximately £8 per video, based on my average view count. Other supplemental earnings include £125 from "Buy Me a Coffee," £24 from YouTube memberships, and £150 from referral links. Altogether, I reported earnings of around £1,300 this year, although expenses related to maintaining the channel are also a factor that will grow over time.
I also addressed inquiries about providing briefings to military units. I have begun conducting these presentations, which have been met positively. However, they require me to take additional leave from my duties, limiting how many I can offer each year. If you believe your unit would benefit from such a briefing, I encourage you to reach out via email.
A significant policy change in 2024 was the pause of the New Accommodation Offer (NAO) designed for serving personnel and their families. This overhaul faced backlash, leading to a review. My earlier video on this subject was eventually removed due to its outdated information, which sparked a complaint against me. I find some humor in this, as those who couldn't handle the criticism seemed to be the officers themselves. Thankfully, the complaint was dismissed, affirming the importance of context in these discussions.
One of the most hotly discussed topics was the newly announced retention payment for soldiers entering their fourth year. Some wondered if the exclusion of certain groups was racially motivated. I clarified that retention issues, rather than race, are the basis for payment eligibility. The MOD operates on retention data, aiming to direct funds where they are most needed rather than distribute them indiscriminately.
I also speculated about whether those with longer service years may receive similar payments but noted it was unlikely due to the "pension trap" that comes into play after 14 years of service.
Deciding on the Retention Bonus and Financial Planning
When asked whether soldiers should accept the retention payment, I emphasized that it's a personal decision based on one's circumstances. For many younger personnel, the bonus can be an opportunity to build financial stability. Coupled with pension contributions, accepting the payment can have long-term benefits.
In terms of spending the retention bonus, I recommend considering future goals strategically. For instance, if aspiring to buy a home, putting funds into a Lifetime ISA to receive government bonuses can be wise. Moreover, investing part of the bonus could yield substantial long-term benefits due to compound interest.
Finally, when discussing investment platforms, I shared my experiences with three options: Vanguard, eToro, and Trading 212. However, due to recent changes in fees, I plan to transition my investments to Trading 212 as it offers more competitive rates. I encouraged viewers to explore different platforms to determine which suits their investment needs best.
Thank You for Your Support
In closing, I appreciate all the questions submitted, even if I couldn’t address every single one. Thank you for your continued support throughout the past three years. I look forward to providing value in 2025 and beyond. Don't forget to subscribe for more content and to participate in our upcoming giveaway. Your engagement is invaluable to me, and I’m excited about the journey ahead!
Part 1/9:
Year-End Reflections and Viewer Questions Answered
As we approach the end of the year, it's a time for reflection and answering some of the most pressing questions from my audience. This article aims to distill the key points from my recent video where I addressed viewer inquiries, shared insights into my channel's growth, and discussed some broader topics affecting serving personnel.
Channel Growth and Viewer Appreciation
Part 2/9:
First, I want to take a moment to express gratitude to the nearly 10,000 subscribers on my channel and the over 14,000 followers on Instagram. Your support is what drives this channel's growth, allowing it to reach more individuals and provide a positive impact on the lives of serving personnel and their families. I also promised a giveaway to mark our growth milestone once we hit 10,000 subscribers, so make sure to stay tuned for that!
Handling Criticism and Growth
Part 3/9:
As with any growing platform, some criticism tends to come along as well. While negative comments may occasionally surface, they often reflect the viewer's discomfort with the topics discussed rather than a personal attack on me. Interestingly, I’ve found that many critics are puzzled admirers, and I appreciate their engagement since it helps expand our community.
Financial Insights of 2024
Part 4/9:
A recurring question I received was about my earnings for 2024. My primary source of income stems from ad revenue, which has averaged around £4 for every 1,000 views, translating to approximately £8 per video, based on my average view count. Other supplemental earnings include £125 from "Buy Me a Coffee," £24 from YouTube memberships, and £150 from referral links. Altogether, I reported earnings of around £1,300 this year, although expenses related to maintaining the channel are also a factor that will grow over time.
Presentations and Unit Briefs
Part 5/9:
I also addressed inquiries about providing briefings to military units. I have begun conducting these presentations, which have been met positively. However, they require me to take additional leave from my duties, limiting how many I can offer each year. If you believe your unit would benefit from such a briefing, I encourage you to reach out via email.
Updates on the New Accommodation Offer
Part 6/9:
A significant policy change in 2024 was the pause of the New Accommodation Offer (NAO) designed for serving personnel and their families. This overhaul faced backlash, leading to a review. My earlier video on this subject was eventually removed due to its outdated information, which sparked a complaint against me. I find some humor in this, as those who couldn't handle the criticism seemed to be the officers themselves. Thankfully, the complaint was dismissed, affirming the importance of context in these discussions.
Retention Payments and Fairness Concerns
Part 7/9:
One of the most hotly discussed topics was the newly announced retention payment for soldiers entering their fourth year. Some wondered if the exclusion of certain groups was racially motivated. I clarified that retention issues, rather than race, are the basis for payment eligibility. The MOD operates on retention data, aiming to direct funds where they are most needed rather than distribute them indiscriminately.
I also speculated about whether those with longer service years may receive similar payments but noted it was unlikely due to the "pension trap" that comes into play after 14 years of service.
Deciding on the Retention Bonus and Financial Planning
Part 8/9:
When asked whether soldiers should accept the retention payment, I emphasized that it's a personal decision based on one's circumstances. For many younger personnel, the bonus can be an opportunity to build financial stability. Coupled with pension contributions, accepting the payment can have long-term benefits.
In terms of spending the retention bonus, I recommend considering future goals strategically. For instance, if aspiring to buy a home, putting funds into a Lifetime ISA to receive government bonuses can be wise. Moreover, investing part of the bonus could yield substantial long-term benefits due to compound interest.
Investment Platforms and Recommendations
Part 9/9:
Finally, when discussing investment platforms, I shared my experiences with three options: Vanguard, eToro, and Trading 212. However, due to recent changes in fees, I plan to transition my investments to Trading 212 as it offers more competitive rates. I encouraged viewers to explore different platforms to determine which suits their investment needs best.
Thank You for Your Support
In closing, I appreciate all the questions submitted, even if I couldn’t address every single one. Thank you for your continued support throughout the past three years. I look forward to providing value in 2025 and beyond. Don't forget to subscribe for more content and to participate in our upcoming giveaway. Your engagement is invaluable to me, and I’m excited about the journey ahead!