How we made a SMALL FORTUNE on YouTube $$ // paul brodie's shop 

Started watching during covid & have seen every episode. I think these types of channels are super important for the future of craftsman, fabricators, creators etc. Hopefully you guys can keep going & keep teaching us all.

I made a small fortune trap shooting. I started with a large fortune and by the time I was done, it was a small fortune. True story.

I’d like to thank Cove and David for being shit-talkers, because now we have Paul and Mitch here on RU-vid. 😄

Folks, get out there and buy Paul’s book...it’s packed with great stories.

I also started watching during covid and have mentioned in the past I worked in a shop for 8 years and that by first real bike was a Brodie ( the non Paul Brody made Brody ). I remember seeing the frame building class and would have loved the opportunity. Thank's for keeping with it, and getting me through that rough patch. I really appreciate it!

As ever , a very interesting video . And not only because we actually get to see Mighty Mitch.

I can already sense the patented paul brodie sarcasm in the title before the video starts.. 😉👍👏

I saw your title and figured it was a variation on that old joke: Question: How do you make a small fortune in ranching/farming/youtube...etc. Answer: Start with a large one.

1:41 oh god, what a beauty ♥️

i love the channel. seeing that brief flash of the first episode shows how far the filming and editing quality has come. it looks really professional.

Love your videos, and not just because I actually have a Brodie. I live down the Valley from you guys. Just retired my old Brodie Bandit frame that I had converted to a mid-drive eBike about 3 years ago to great success. However, given its age, I couldn't adapt a tapered boost fork to it. My goal, after exploding my Shimano dual piston hydraulic brakes on my front wheel twice avoiding drivers that could have put me in hospital again, was to upgrade my brakes to quad pistons and a 220mm front/180mm rear brake rotor setup. Sadly I could not do that on the Brodie so I set out to find the perfect frame for my build and settled on a steel Soma Riff. Added a DT Swiss hand-built wheel set, Schwalbe moped rated tires, Shimano Linkglide 1x11 drive-train, and moved the rest of the parts over from my Brodie. Finished it this past Monday and did a 70km ride up Slesse mountain forestry roads. At 67 years of age I still love those steep climbs and descents, especially now with a little help from my X1 Stealth Gen 3 motor and those SRAM Code RSC brakes. If I'm going to end up in the hospital I want it to be my responsibility...not bad drivers. I've DIY'd several different types of eBikes for friends since I built my first. It is a lot of fun. Just wish a company would design production eBike frames for DIY'ers. I think we need stronger rear triangles due to the torque. My next build, hopefully, will be with a Gates belt drive and Rolhoff hub...as soon as my budget will allow. Keep the great videos coming.

It's wonderful to witness honesty in relation to daily life. Congratulations on your you tube success. Really enjoy your videos.

Hey Paul and Mitch, this channel is a real blessing and thank you two for putting in all the work. It's a bummer what the UFV did to kibosh your classic course, but ebike frame building 101 hosted at Grin during the winter low season is more than just a possibility ;-) We got all the metal shop tools and the real estate, just need a few brazing torches! Anyways we'll look forwards to seeing you and your bikes on the 16th and can chat then.

Life stories are always interesting, especially when the life is real, interesting, and creative, thanks.

Enjoy my coffee, because I can identify with you. Your enterprising spirit is motivating.

This is the only channel I support with donations. You deserve more followers and a bigger crowd.

Im sure people would patreon to listen to your words of wisdom. I appreciate the free content just to see to your thought process. You are a "nice bloke" with a will to share. Thank you, also from the people in the future who dont know you yet. We watch to hope to have some of your skill

I'm not sure if it was mentioned before but Paul Brodie's Bicycle Show is taking place June 15 &16 in Vancouver.

Thank you for sharing your story with us. Will be trying to support your channel more when and as I can.

Everything is great on this channel: Paul, Mitch, the content. Enjoy it every time! Keep on welding and riding! 👍🏻 Greetings from Berlin, Germany

Thank you Mitch! And Paul also ;-).

That’s a very honest video, straight from the heart Paul, and yeh, interesting to actually hear first hand how the numbers actually pan out. Please keep it going, and yeh, happy to buy you guys a coffee 😂

nice story! Life certainly has twists and turns!

Back in the early 1980s I had a couple roommates who were pretty serious about road bikes. One of them took a bicycle frame building course that was offered at the time through the local technical college and built his own frame, the other found a custom Eisentraut frame in the local classified ads. For about a year there were all kinds of parts from Campagnolo, Shimano, etc. scattered all around the house, until they finally got their bikes put together. It was an interesting time. 🙂

If only i could, i will buy your coffee paul, but i'm from the phillipines, i'm so happy and excited watching your video while dringking our local coffee, tnx paul for all of your interesting video, God Bless

I'm pretty sure I've been here since the beginning, When I watch other people working I often think "Paul Brodie wouldn't do it like that..." It's turned me into quite the armchair critic, but it's been fun learning.

One of the BEST RU-vid channels, in my opinion! It's always something new, and a great mix of teaching and entertainment! I unfortunately never got to take framebuilding , and I'm entirely self-taught when it comes to that. But after watching the video of the 69er 2 or 3 times it definitely motivated me to build something out of my comfort zone (I've always just built dirt jump hardtails) it's been a lot of learning and problem solving as nothing fits in any of my jigs but it's been great and I probably would have never done it if it wasn't for this channel!

Great channel. Interesting content. Memories from Whistler in 80s. You recently caused me to get a set of torches and start making icicles. Now to build a project. Appreciate the story of the channel and your disclosure of the small fortune you are making on YT. Maybe I could also make a small fortune too. Glad to see you are healthy.

In a perfect world an amazingly talented and passionate creator like you would make a comfortable living from youtube, I appreciate what you guys do and have happily supported you a few times with coffees etc. I will probably never build a bike frame but I watch everything you have published with great interest and have learnt a lot. Thank you :)

Cool stuff! I enjoyed watching this

Thank you Mitch and Paul. This channel was my gateway drug to what has become a significant addiction. A friend accidentally bought a Brodie for his son, the genuine article, we can tell by the spaghetti. Anyways it had a dent so he went on Ytube to see if there was a way to get the dent out and stumbled on Paul's channel. He sent me the link which started me down a rabbit hole which has pretty much arrived at Paul and Mitch, Keith Rucker, the Tally Ho, and a bit of Qinn Dunki for good measure. It is fun to compare how Paul does something versus Keith and Quinn. Three very different approaches to fabrication. BTW I bought a T shirt but a friend saw it and demanded I give it to her so now I guess I have to buy another one.

Hi Paul, Thats what I was thinking, you are not getting rich from these Videos, but there are always some jalous people. Your Videos are excellent, if not the best on RU-vid, they must be very timeconsuming. I love watching them, everytime I can learn something new, even when it is from your errors, which are filmed as well. Very good indeed. So, I am waiting already for the next one, keep them coming !

Thank you Paul and Mitch for the gig on how you made a small fortune! Anymore RU-vid is just about the only thing worth watching. Your channel and "The Mighty Garage" are my favorites, Please keep pounding them out, I greatly appreciate your talent! willymakit

I wish it were more, your videos have always been good.

I hoped you were making more with your excellent videos - it would be very well deserved. As this steel frame building is probably a bit of a niche "market" getting more subscribers might be hard to achieve. But I am wondering if you couldn't from time to time build a small batch series of some signature bicycle parts (like 10 pieces - something not too complex which you could handle with ease), show on video how you make them and then sell them to us? I am pretty sure that there are a lot of your subscribers (like me) who would be willing to pay an "unusual" price for this as they would love the idea of having seen you building their personal item. Maybe bike parts which could be used on a larger variety of even todays MTBs. Not sure however what this could be but I am sure there are a few people here who would have some ideas. Maybe a bottle cage ? Or a bike tool - can be a simple. E.g. an extra long, pedal wrench with your signature of course. Worth another small fortune I am sure. I would love it.

Damn... I'm your age. I was yearning for a minibike, and my dad wouldn't buy me one. My neighbor had a Bonanza. I wanted the Honda 50. All of these years since, this has had an effect on me. I've tried to get over it. Building one never occurred to me! I can't believe it. This is such a revelation for me. I got into mountain bikes around '83, and have been excited about it ever since. But the minibike was a big trauma that haunts me. How could I have been so blind? I regret not having done what you did. Thank you for the revelation. By the way, I was there when Tom Richey brought his first frame to show us at a boy scout meeting.

What an open and honest video.... I take my hat off to you both for supplying great content that seems so natural with a top level of skill which is super rare these days..... greetings from down under...... stay safe....... hope all is going ok with your MM....

Great video guys. I love to see these breakdowns when they're honest. Keep up the great work guys.

Hearing the behind the scenes is always interesting. Great videos / projects Paul, it's all really enjoyable to watch. And Mitch really does a great job filming and with the videos! Not everyone is good at filming stuff, but Mitch is amazing at it.

That was an interesting chat, completely understand about not filming, looking at video's I made 2010~2016 I see how terrible they are. My stepdaughters son has taken over my channel with 'Shorts' (he's eight now, started about 18 months ago) As they say, the only way to make a small fortune is start with a large one. I still play with vintage Honda 350/360, mainly modifying stock carbs to work with K&N or Uni filters although there are far fewer wanting it done now compared to 12~14 years ago. (cheap 'pods' are a waste of money in every instance) 'Pricing' is still pretty much to 1980 standards (I have increased from 1960's though 😄) Every penny I make ends up being spent on tools, equipment or material, always something needing replacing

Great story!

Wow, I can't believe I have been watching you guys from the start. Thanks for all your hard work.

I’m amazed that your channel has grown so I fast! I’ve been doing this nine years and have nearly 300 videos, but less than 1/3 as many subs as you.

I’m really grateful for your videos giving insight into your craft! As someone who has a very small channel and does all the filming and editing etc I can say you must certainly appreciate all that Mitch brings to the table! Just changing camera angles while dealing with greasy hands in a very small space makes for some rather tiring filming sessions.. hope your channel keeps growing!!

As a retro mtn bike fan I love watching your videos. To see one of the founding fathers showcase his talents here it provides a fantastic connection to the hobby I most enjoy. You’re a truly talented and skilled man, Mr Bodie, making some of the most coveted bikes in the industry.

Interesting content. I'm surprised at just how little revenue you get from your videos. On a different note, I'd just like to say how well you're looking. Whatever it is that you're doing, don't stop. 😂

You and Mitch are super cool. Thank you for bringing this fascinating and intriguing work of yours. I liked your interview, Paul -- you really tell stories well. And Mitch's framing and compositions are *much* appreciated.

No one not in the video production business understands how expensive it is to do something like your show. My son and I just did a short doco on the guy that owns the vintage mx series I race. By the time it was said and done we'd put between $3-5k of our own money into my "passion" project. Please keep making videos. Not only do I enjoy watching I learn something new every time.

Hey Mitch, I was at work one day showing my co-worker the cargo bike that I had just made, he said "my cousin out on the coast took a frame building class" I told him it was one of my great regrets having missed out on the 101 class. Dave said that "Mitch really enjoyed the class too"... I couldn't resist and asked him what Mitch's last name was... wouldn't you know it, haha. Love the videos and I can say that you've really evolved into quite a film maker!

God speed you two, hope to see you for years to come 🙏

So glad you are willing to share your knowledge with us! Thank you.

Thanks!

Fantastic sharing of history, and explanation of how this all works! Really appreciate the honesty when sharing financials. What I see as the part most overlooked by viewers is the time invested in creating content, fabricating, filming, editing. This doesn't just happen. It's work both in front of and behind the camera. A-and we are the ones that benefit from your stories and sharing of your skills and craftsmanship. That's why I am here, a loyal follower/viewer. Thank you! Go Paul and Mitch, keep moving forward!

I’m happy to buy you and Mitch a code whenever I have the xtra coin 😉 In my opinion this is the best show on the tube!

I have been watching the channel almost from the beginning. I have to admit with some ups and downs but still love it. I still can't believe that you don't have more viewers. I learned so much here, the best frame building channel periode. Keep up the good work. Greetings from Belgium.

Couldn’t happen to a nicer person. I watch every video but don’t always comment. I’ve watched you fight through the toughest days and come back looking like a young man! Great to hear your story mate, long may it continue

I hope you guys can keep the business relationship in check so the friendship will continue for the benefit of us all watching the channel. To epitomize the kind of person Paul is - listen to what he says about splitting the proceeds 50-50. He could have asked for more, but went 50-50 because it was sustainable. That really resonates with me and is a life lesson we can all take to heart.

Just subscribed, very well done on the channel!

Dear Paul, I hope this message finds you well. I have been an avid viewer of your RU-vid channel, and I must say your videos are truly exceptional. I have not seen any content specifically about e-bikes on your channel, but I have a special request that I hope you can assist with. I am currently working on an e-bike project and would like to modify the regenerative braking system in a geared hub motor. While I appreciate the benefits of regenerative braking, the drag it creates when riding without power makes pedaling difficult. I came across a video from Grin Technologies that demonstrates how to weld the clutch of a geared hub motor to make it compatible with regenerative braking. Although this method is effective, it still results in drag. My proposal is to connect the disc brake directly to the clutch of the hub motor instead of the hub itself. This way, the disc would remain stationary when the wheel is spinning. I have all the necessary electronic components for this modification, but I need assistance with the mechanical aspect, specifically being able to lock the clutch when pressing the brakes and deactivate it when the brakes are not engaged. I understand that my explanation might be somewhat unclear, but this modification has been successfully implemented before. I can provide pictures and additional details if needed. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to any guidance or assistance you can provide. Video link of similar project: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-ISIvfcoY4CQ.html&ab_channel=TransportEvolved Best regards, Ambiuorix Castillo Cina West Vancouver

Coffee coming your way. Chapeau Mr. Brodie and Mr. Mitch! Love the content on your channel. And btw. The story about the new director...makes me furious. I know so many people like him. Horrible short sighted bureaucrat bastards!!!!

Hi You give so much so it’s time to give a little back. Great channel keep up the good work.. 👍

Thank you Mitch and Paul, your videos are much loved by many of us. Watching from Cornwall in the UK.

really enjoy the channel. keep on keepin' on!

Very interesting, thank you. You could make more money, I am sure doing almost anything else, but you keep us informed and entertained which is a gift.

Your videos are one of first I look for each week. Coffees comin' your way! Thanks Paul and Mitch

If u will make a 101 video course about frame building and how to make tools for it. I would definitely buy!!!!

Remember way back. I was riding a lot and when I first saw your drop top tube frame it was Wow, that’s what I need

Thank you for sharing your knowledge! I recommend you always ask viewers to 'thumb up' the video and engage the audience with questions to comment on throughout the video. It will help you reach new viewers. Could you do a video on repairing the threads of an ovalized derailleur hanger? I have a Breezer dropout on a mtb frame made of Tange steel and branded as Ritchey Logic Prestige Super Tubing. The front triangle is TIG welded and the rear triangle is brazed. I imagine you would replace one or both dropouts. I'm hoping I could simply get away with filling the threads, then drilling and tapping the derailleur bolt hole. Thanks again for sharing your wealth of knowledge!

Love this story, specially in it's longer version, but I can listen it every month :). 😻

👍 Good Video....Speaking of frame building, I really wish someone built a strong steel full suspension frame for motorized bicycles....The felt faker frames with the gas tank in the top tube are cool but are aluminum that cannot be easily repaired or modified....I'm stuck without electricity to run my welder or I'd attempt to build a reinforced full suspension frame out of donor frames laying around. I really want to build a rwd gas/fwd electric hybrid stealth motorcycle with pedals. For fwd electric only in certain areas & rwd gas to go fast & cover long distance on backwards into town.

You look 100% better Paul I’m so stoked

Thank you for the fascinating history of Paul Brody. You ar my favorite RU-vid channel. 👍

Hey Paul. I press all my thumbs for your shop Future and, of course, always for you personal. Greetings

Love you guys, I hope the transparency helps to silence some Internet idiots. You guys do a great job and time is a precious resource. If you can’t afford to support those efforts at least have the good sense to keep your mouth shut

Thank you for your content. I've been watching for ages and will continue.

Love your show Paul and Mitch. Thank you for the inspiration. Would like to see more more motorcycle builds and modifications, where and how to acquire the tools and how I could learn your skills while not having to leave Brooklyn, NY if possible.

I really was hoping you were making a small fortune but then looking at the subscribers it was more inline with what I thought it would be. So I bought you a coffee. More to come.

Love the content!!! Yall inspired me to start my channel!! I’m excited to follow for more! Also I would have taken that class 😭😭 it is pricey but no one builds bikes in my neck of the woods!

I always enjoy your content. All well filmed. Very honest of you to declare what you make.

i stumbled on your channel by chance one day and i have been watching ever since going back an watching ones i missed, i had the bright idea to have you as a guest on my show on performance motorsports network,( you were awesome by the way. ) last year i was forced into early retirement due to health issues so i spent lots of time on you tube mostly watching your shows and reading your book, if anyone wants an inspirational read see Paul about getting his book awesome book! but over the past few years i feel like your almost family, i never miss your videos i have learned so much from them, things i didnt even know i needed to know! lol when you were sick i was praying for you daily, felt like part of my life was gone. you are a unique man Paul Brodie, it was an honor to have you on the show, and i love your videos! i make my boys watch them because you are such a good teacher. AND your camera man has a super cool name!. thank you for the time you give to teaching a new generation of craftsmen. "doc"

I love your channel Paul. I've learnt a lot. Thanks so much!

Thanks for sharing your story! Any idea how the income breaks down between merch, ads and coffee? Which is the biggest source of income?

we need to get you that on squarespace revenue! you deserve it!

excellent story telling, you are a great raconteur

They call it “content “ You gross $12,000 a year You need to calculate your adjusted income maybe 25-50% less Thanks for your honesty Most you tubers dont give a number

Great insight into the Paul Brodie and Mitch story. Best wishes, Dean.

I think you could double your viewership just by showing more episodes of brazing. Your a expert at it and there is a huge audience for this skill.

I almost was expecting how did we make a small fortune? We started with a large fortune! Sorry your not paid what your with. Not that that is possible... PeeeRICELESSss!!!

I watch all the ads 🤓

Getting some sponsors u believe in and are happy to promote!! That's where you really get paid for your work.

Wait... I thought all RU-vidrs were rolling in the dough! Excellent channel Paul and Mitch. From one RU-vidr to another, thank you for all you do.

Awesome

Beautiful video

I finally got to know how Mitch looks like!

👍👍👍👍👍

Finally pics of Mitch! Keep up the content!

I wish I could have taken a frame building class from you because I have a bunch of ideas that I want to try on frames.... Also adding electric motors on them to make them very fast. ⚡❤😁

Thanks

Nice work and an interesting story. How much did goverment takeout of your 12G's for tax?

You really should find some sponsors