This is the Best VW channel! Most comprehensive information about keeping your VW alive and thriving in today's world. Hang in there buddy, good things are coming!
You have been a wealth of VW knowledge. Maybe relax a bit from all the work, keep your favorite VW and take it for cruises and to shows. I am 58 years of age, I left my 1971 Beetle for 12 months untouched. I suffer from depression and anxiety. I finally am installing a more reliable 1600 twin port pretty stock engine, getting rid of the highly strung 1916cc engine so I can enjoy the car once again. Take some time to look after your own wellbeing. All the best for 2025.
Hang on in there Mike - your channel inspires me and many others to work on our VWs across the globe. I always look forward to your content. Your anxiety will pass .
It’s a pity that you can’t monetise inspiration. That is, the volume of inspiration that you have generated among the VW community. You are one of the constants I have relied on to give me the confidence to tackle a bug, and now a bus.
Mike in my opinion you are my favorite and the Glue that keeps me going. I too are getting a bit older 64yo and had major health issues over the last few years. I'm ready to finish my 56 oval ragtop, have everything parts/paint ect. and your videos are amazing help for me Maybe, a suggestion for your channel is to visit different people that are working on their VW project, it would be a boost for me ! Maybe others? Thank you for all you do and take care.
Señor Mike, your Humble , No B.S Voice is the Voice I’ve needed. Watching your Videos have given me and my 15yr old daughter the Dream of working on her 1st pre-65 VW bug. But seeing the Greed by resellers has made us feel like it’ll never happen. I’ve even asked for a donated running car for her and have been laughed at. We can’t afford a car for her to go to school and work. Times have Changed. I believe You Are “ The VW Voice” of RUclips. A TV show is what you need my Amigo. Your A STAR ⭐️
Thanks for all the VW and painting advice you've given me over the years from your videos. First time I've written to you, but want to more in the future. Hope this year goes better for you. Cheers. Adrian Kole in Newberg, OR.
@@Mikefngarage You're so welcome, Mike. I really appreciate your practical advice based on real world experience (as just one example, IIRC how lap welding can be perfectly acceptable or even preferred for strength over butt welding). You've been a real partner as I continue restoring my '68 Beetle (which I currently can't drive as I think I must have burned at least one valve after a darned tappet nut came loose in my 2110!--argh).
Hi Mike: Your channel inspires, informs and instructs many of us VW enthusiasts. As to new content: I would like to see how you find the vehicles and parts that you work with. Show us in RUclips land the "junkyards" and parts places you go to in your quest to save vintage Volkswagens. Thanks,
The secret to sucess may be is to make shorter videos and release on specific days of the week ... on day, Volkswagen restoration , one day motor upgrades , another that trailer project and so on ?? Kind regards Alex
I heard you mention Glamis. What about doing a Railbuggy build and taking it to Glamis? I bought an old piece of junk railbuggy about 5 years ago. I had never owned or worked on an aircooled VW before. I’ve learned a lot by watching channels like yours. I built an engine, repaired the transaxle, rebuilt the brakes. So thanks for your help!
Appreciate your channel and your approach to these cars. It takes a lot of strength to talk about this stuff. Hang in there man, hope 2025 is good to you.
Good job Mike. Love the channel. Love the personal touch and approach to things. I would love to have you do some live vids and answer quick questions or share thoughts.
Hi Mike: your channel inspires me to get my high school 61 VW Manx style buggy back on the road and knowing it doesn’t have to be perfect and that you’re passing on your knowledge to help me get the project back finished. Any knowledge you’d like to pass on I’m interested in learning. I’m a visual learner! Thank you!!
I’ve had my vw channel for almost five years and have earned zero dollars. People don’t really watch my long form videos so I mostly do shorts on my projects. What I’ve found from others is live streaming really kicks things up. The trouble for me is I never wanted the channel to be about me so I’m never shown in the video. But the more you are involved the more your audience connects with you. I have your channel linked to mine as I really appreciate your work! Thank you!
I have appreciated that you have done many VW projects that have been actually finished. I did one easy project nearly 10 years ago. I think because of the price and project cost increases and lack possibility people just can't do restorations as before so they can't relate to that, also lacking of skills. Only your own labor is same but so many other things have changed in last few years. Maybe make videos of smaller projects also outside of VW scene?
Small segment videos and smaller resto projects - (long time subscriber). I remember the short vidoe on the Bucket Truck's speedo, or segments that focus on interior restoration (the sewing videos), rebuilding carbs for the VW (perhaps more detail on the factory correct restoration/rebuilds).,...in addition to segments such as this (life lessons for us gen Xer's, and later) from men such as yourself, that have "ben there, done that" Keep up the great work. I appreciate the efforts. Cheers,!
Hey Mike. What you're saying is echoed over and over here in SoCal. I don't have much to offer for life advice but your VW content is great for us diy-ers. Not all of us have money for new cases, cranks and the rest. I really enjoy your videos where you take good used parts and build a solid, reliable engine. Your insight into what parts to keep and what to trash along with the reasons behind your thoughts are fantastic. I built my first VW engine in over 20 years because of your videos and you gave me the confidence to go ahead and do it. Now I'm on to another couple of builds and I have you to thank. So thank you Mike. I wish you the best.
I'm over 60 and retired as well. Your videos have been so helpful as I have messed around with my 1965 VW as well as my 1971 VW, which I have raced at SCCA Autocross events. My latest dream is to build a replica Kubelwagen. Perhaps make one from a deteriorated "Thing". I haven't seen to may folks posting anything about that type of project. Maybe of interest to you and your audience ?
Mike thanks for being honest, If the world had more people like you it would be better off . But its people like you that make RUclips what it is . That is why we watch it ...thanks for your knowledge. Keep it up I'm 61 this yr and have a two projects but thanks to you I working on them and if I don't get them done its just the journey for me . its my pill All my close friends are Vw Guys and Gals cheers ,
keep going mike. i am tito from mombasa- kenya. your channel mikefngarage is the reason i got a 1966 vespa scooter and started a rebuild last year after watching your videos back to back. I am riding it now on weekends and it still is a rolling restoration. i dream of one day finding a vw bug or bus and restoring that too. thanks to your channel my mental state is much better. I hope yours too improves
What i personally would LOVE to see, is more content with the bucket. I think it could be your cashcow! How about some more actual work with it? Some collaborations with other VW channels in the area? You got something special, this truck HAS to be the only one in country!
I know you say the big projects cost you too much time and money but for me it was the bucket truck that got me hooked on your channel, Musty1 and his pick up the same. I've stopped watching CT now as got ged up of him rescuing cars and starting projects he never finishes , i was really looking forward to seeing Rusty finished and on the road. So for me I'd say keep going with the big projects even if you take them a little slower and break them down in to smaller sub projects.
Hi Mike, thank you for all the advice you gave me through the channel. I'm new to the VW world and I have used your VW wisdom to avoid some pitfalls like how to organize the project which basically gave me a macro understanding of the VW rehab. I had an Idea about what you might do to generate more capital. Have you looked into making parts using a 3d printer? Your knowledge and understanding of the VW world would be a home run! Anyhow thanks so much and rock on.
I visited my local VW shop in Sparks NV Friday. He's had the business up for sale since the first of the year. He's looking to retire. I wasn't brave enough to ask the price. I won't be the first to tell you that leaving California is a good idea. But also embracing a minimalist life is an even better idea. Been watching your channel for a long time and hope the best for you Mike.
Yea need to simplify things. Change it up, Hunker down. Property taxes are pretty low for me here. Keep expanding youtube. I think it will pay off eventually.
As others have said, hang in there. Life sometimes just creeps up on us and one day we realise that there just isn't enough hours in the day or energy in the body to do everything we want to do, BUT we take comfort from falling over piles of junk ("future projects"). I subscribe to lots of channels but enjoy your real-world/home-DIY approach. I've been restoring cars at home since the age of 18 (I'm 55 now) and if it wasn't for having cars in the garage I'd have gone insane years ago. Cars and the garage are my escape room!
Mike - Thank you for sharing and being so open. Have you thought about a short "collaboration" -- just one or a few videos -- with folks like CT? This is one of the best ways to grow audience #'s quickly as his subscribers will be exposed to your channel/you and vice-versa, and you guys can call that out and ask folks to subscribe
Mike your channel is inspiring and just like you said about your sign business. I think your RUclips is the best. I can't wait for each video to come out wish you well God be with you
What you are doing in this video is therapy. A little bit for us and a lot for you. For me, I like the tours and shows. Engine building is second just for the education..I can do very basic maintenance. The fellow who built my engine is 74 years old and still does great work. I hope you can figure it out, I think the subscribers will hang with you. VW channels here in Texas have thrown in the towel. Investigate membership. Keep trucking.
You are a total titan. I love your car content and have incredible admiration for your titanium balls in tackling some of the most difficult car projects I’ve seen. What I’ve noticed is that viewership and subscriber numbers in channels don’t have anything to do with great content or knowledge. Some channels that aren’t even worthy to shine your boots have more subscribers; I think it’s ridiculous and unfair. I guess people’s attention spans are really short; they just go for the barn find, will it starts and power wash videos. I find those boring if they don’t have a continuation to a conclusion like yours. I have noticed that the key to their success is they have more varied content that appeals to more people. Happy 2025 to you and yours, my dear sir!
Whats up Mike! Nice piece of land space in the back. It would be nice to turn it into a food forest with several organic vegetables, grapes and fruit trees. Film the whole process and harvest. Sell some of the crops at a local farmers market for extra cash.
Mike, when I listen to you, I feel the same. I think I am just getting old and tired. I have a yard full of ATCs that I know I will never ride again. Time to thin down the projects and embrace my new reality. I have met you in person (Bug-in a few years ago) and you are a wealth of knowledge. Keep entertaining us!
as a small business owner; I understand the frustration of the bureaucracy and hoops that we need to jump through. I appreciate your videos and thanks for all you do. I'm 56 and starting to feel it as well. all I can say is "slow Productivity" do what you love and enjoy the time. thanks for it all!
yea I was thinking about some old VW stories. But havent thought enough about them and how to make them interesting. Earl sheib was a Super fun experience. So glad I spent that week in there.
Thanks Mike! I'll keep watching and learning things from your postings. Maybe a video(s) of you touring other shops. Pets like a mascot cat or dog (puppy) get a wider group watching.... sorry you're finding yourself at this crossroad. If you drove a VW around and answered peoples questions that they ask you about it....that always happens to me and you get some cool stories from people..... no charge! But I don't know about getting folk's permission? Hope someone comes forward with a project they are willing to fund that you can put on this channel. Keep the faith....
I will say that your channel has helped me BEYOND words with my VW knowledge.........and I got that from you for free, without even knowing you. I feel guilty..........You are a golden soul for what you share. I have no words for how thankful I am for the help you provided.
Mike. I watch Wrenching Wrecked, DD Speed Shop, and UTG. These guys bring junkers out of the yard and off of market place (with the minimum needed to get them running and safe) and then sell them. The stuff always moves. Just showing the basic stuff you do has always helped me. You are a blessed mechanic. The other 90% of the world are hacks like me. If it wasnt for you and you tube we would be stuck. Set up a wide angle camera, throw the bug in the yard together with what you have, make a video showing everyone how to find the parts you need (new and used). Get it running, primered, and rolling and sell it. While your doing that take some pics and start on the toy hauler on the same channel. Show fixing it up then people will want it. Dan on DD Speed shop has people buying his stuff before its already done. And you must get out and walk every day. Take a pencil and pad with you. Ideas and set ups for the show will come to you. Exercise is essential for the body and mind. Jeff
Ideas: Go around to all your VW friends & do an interview/ car spotlight stories, friends, trips, whatever. Make the interview edited down to maybe 30-45 minutes max. Get one of those gopro attachments that mounts outside the car & drive around cool places. Still do your How-to videos, maybe cut up specific segments of your old content into bite-size informational/tutorial whatever. Sit down & do technical deep-dives on your favorite or in-depth knowledge of parts of the VW. You & so many other OG VW owners are retiring, getting old, dying & so much knowledge is lost forever. God bless & good health to you. P.S. My own personal wish is since I guess you are in a sign-making trade, I want to see you go out on a job with the cherry picker & put old girl to work.
Aging definitely sucks in its own way. It’s very tough to realize that we won’t be able to continue doing some of the things we love to do. I do agree that not all the repairs done on all these cars need to be metal finish perfect. There’s a time and place for everything and getting the cars back on the road is the most important. Now that’s obviously meaning it’s a structurally safe repair. Definitely good information that you putting out there and people need to hear it. As far as ideas for the channel ….. I guess you could do it more like CT does which absolutely amazes me . Just start the camera and do 1 panel straight through and make a 45 min video out of it. No offense to him but I’m shocked he gets the views he does but I’ll give it to him it works!
We hauled all our stuff (and our four VW’s) out of Yorba Linda to Nevada a decade ago. We saw the future of California over-regulation and made the call to abandon ship.
I agree, everyone of my friends who left California feel they have a new lease on life... Tennessee and South Carolina to name a few where my friends moved to and each say it's changed their lives for the better... One friend went from paying $1,250 a month ($15k a year) in California property taxes to about $67 a month ($800+ a year) in property taxes. Just one example of financial freedom.
I was born in San Jose Ca in 1953 and left Cali in 1987 because I saw it was headed in the wrong direction. It's so sad because there is no state more beautiful than California. I moved to North Carolina and realized I could actually by a home . California is just sucking it's residents dry .
@@blacksmithnc Policies in States that drain & punish taxpayer citizens financially for the benefit of those who came into and just take from society (illegals) without ever having contributed is why, in a large part, we are in this mess. In terms of State policies California, New York and the like lead the way in these terrible public policies and is why the flight from these states by those who are fed up have been growing each passing year.
Hey Mike, here from your painting channel. Thanks alot for all the knowledge you've taught me. I even called you once for tips on painting my old work truck. Ive also been passing down that knowledge to my new construction crew mostly youngins. Just wanted to say thanks a ton! Wishing I could meet you one day since I'm in Orange County. Would love to get a handshake.
I love real talk videos like this. It’s cool when you can feel like you know someone that you have never met. You’re right about money. I have talked to so many people lately, and everyone is broke! I appreciate your videos and I love watching videos of people I like doing other things besides cars. Stay strong brother!
Good times 🎉 I have enjoyed your videos over the years. I like the restoration series that you do. The car shows are ok. I like when you have footage of driving the bucket truck down the freeway. Doesn’t have to be an over the top vehicle. I see bugs for sale that still seem like a bargain. What about the free bug that someone gave you. Fix that one and sell it. I talked to a guy the other day who had a split window bus and said his transmission was cracked. Then I saw a trans on market place. He didn’t know anything about working on it. In the 90s I lived in Humboldt county. It was an old Victorian house with a bunch of hippies living there. We had 4 bay windows and a couple of split window busses. We were doing engine swaps on a weekly basis. This guy had a 64 camper with no engine or transmission. We took a transmission out of an abandoned bus we found in town, took a 1600 out of a 69 bay and made a runner. Later they dug a hole and turned the 69 bus into a septic tank . We were buddies with the local Vw mechanic shop owner. He was straight out of Germany and spoke ok English. Sometimes he would stop by and give us expert advice for a trade. Many were growers at that time as well. Always loved the Vw 🎉
Whatever you post I'll be there. Your knowledge of VW helps everyone who is interested in them. The Nova project would be Bad A.. too!! Keep up with videos, I'll be watching!!!
Consider going to anything VW related places and interviewing people about their specialties, Visit Wolfsburg West and show the facility and interview. Source VW stuff and create interesting videos with location and people. This doesn’t cost money except for traveling.
I'm 67. Rode desert in my teens and almost lost my left foot. Skated pools in my 20's and broke my wrists 5 times. Started mountain biking in the 80's and continued until 2022 when I got bladder cancer. I had to give up riding. It's almost worse than the cancer. I'm cured now, but at least I was there and did it when I could. No regrets.
I love your video's, the advice we get on building motors, just fantastic. My take on this is you need one car to drive and one to work on ... Perhaps you should be restoring cars as a business. I feel your pain though, I can't let go of anything either, I think it has a lot to do with growing up poor. We all get older and have to slow down a bit, that's the way it is.
First off I want to let you know that I cherish this channel, your skill and your candor. I live vicariously through you and this channel because I have ZERO skills right now and am still trying to find the courage to start. In re suggestions from the channel...the thing that comes to my mind is that VW isn't just a car make-ITS A LIFESTYLE. Its a family. With all the shows you go to and all the people you know in the VW community I definitely think you should do a weekly released "VW stories." Whether its about a specific car or someone talking about "the good ole days," etc. Some of the most popular videos on the Porsche Club of America is a guy named Nathan Merz who does these amazing deep dive videos that are buyer's guides. Basically have a video or two each week that is just sitting in front of the camera OR walking around a specifice model (like you kind of already do when you go to shows). I also think you should do some collabs with other content creators, even if its a "let's go visit ____ at their shop."
At the 38:00-39:00 you mention people asking you to work on their projects. What about doing some "Rescue My Restoration" videos. Other people who are stalling on their projects or have run into something beyond their skill level could have you come out and teach/coach/mentor them over their roadblock. Think Gordon Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmare with less angst and f-bombs! LOL You could also have people who are looking for a project have you come with them to evaluate whether to buy the project they are looking at for sale.
Hey Mike, this is Whit (and John) withe the 65 split camper who you chatted with at the last Deer Park Winery show. 👋 I was thinking about it last week, I like listening to you talk so I often put the videos on at night to fall asleep to. I would think videos talking would be awesome. As far as things to help viewership, what about a graphic of a pretty lady that is in all the thumbnail--something like the WWII ladies on planes but have it be on a beetle? Going to shows like Pomona more often with all kinds of cars, focusing on one really cool car in the thumbnail that might draw in viewership from other car groups? Fast motion videos of body work, no audio just showing how things work, but quickly? Other fast motion videos of repairs could be cool too--just throw some copyright free music in the background. Could you get a sidekick so you can banter back and forth, someone who also speaks well but gives alternate perspectives? For me personally, I think people would do it just to glean some knowledge from your experience. Podcast style where you sit and compare parts, like a brazillian carb vs a solex would be interesting. You could go live with a Q&A session where people can Superchat you for answers every so often for additional income. I've heard on other channels that the 'shorts' in the vertical format are necessary to gather new viewers but I am not entirely sure how that works--A surfer named Koa Rothman has a channel (his name) where he uses them often. Drive videos with no talking, just mounted behind you showing shifting and perspective are something I watched a lot early on when I was new to VW's--I honestly learned how to drive a manual at 40 by watching those videos! Driving stick is another thing that I think could get viewers across more markets/car makes. Look at other channels who have grown the fan base super quickly--This is How We Bingham is one I know of--and see how they title (all caps, click bait) and the wording. Look at their video descriptions and see how they add tags and links too. Phew, I know that's a lot--I really hope you can figure things out, and quickly--we're rooting for you! See you at a show soon!
Yea great ideas.....I could even use existing footage and do some of those full build videos.....I will incorporate that. Make like 2 videos with the same footage. I have done that a few times on my other channels. different tags....Different thumbnails.
I love Idaho.....it is so much better than many places. My wife is pretty liberal. We do agree on many things but there are some she just polarizes left on. She would never live in Idaho or Texas.
Personally I like the shop talk vids periodically. I don't always want a demonstration, sometimes the explanation is what I need to have it all make sense.
Hang in there Mike, your a good person, we are ALL geting old, I'm 63 and retired after 32 yrs w/the same company, we now have 6 cars on Hagerty plus 4 daily drivers for just me and my wife PLUS 2 bay window buses that needs total rebuilds, want some projects? lol IMHO the scary thing about RUclips is your being paid by google and their honest right? LMAO, they can tweak the algorithm anytime they want and the avg content provide like you would never know. I enjoy your rebuild videos and you vw car show coverage.
hi Mike... myself from Malaysia. Inflation is madness same as what is you facing in US. Cost of living is getting higher and higher by day. Maintaining a VW Bettle is expensive over here. Life have to move on and we have to manage it. Hang on and keep it up there... Cheers :)
Hey Mike, it's Gary here from Nairobi in Kenya. We have quite a few VW guys over here, (I have a 69 and 73 Bug), we LOVE your videos, we see stuff in them that we can only dream of over here! Don't get down on yourself, maybe it's time to just slow down a little, enjoy your cars? Whatever you do, keep enjoying yourself and your VDubs! All the very best from Nairobi.
Love watching you do body and paint work Mike. Why not take a trip to see CT and teach him to paint a bug. Maybe the crossover will help drive your viewership. I hate those patina resto’s 😂 @ctmoog what do you think?
Hey Mike, i think it would be cool to see you work on the things thats you have put off for a while. Like installing the disc break kit or getting the tdi running. I feel we all have those things we keep putting on the back burner but it feels good to actually getting around it them.
I’ll be honest and say to you I have only watched a couple of your uploads when I was once looking to buy a 13 window bus.. I’m going back about 7 years ago. But I would like you to know I watched this from start to finish listening to your every word and enjoyed listening to. Anxiety, stress and depression is something I know about. I wish you, your wife and family all the very best for 2025 🇬🇧🇺🇸 I don’t have much knowledge about YouTubing but a fairly big channel I watch here in the uk got great results just buy being very regular with uploads! Like so for example everyone knows every Saturday a video came out, even if it’s short !!? You seem a fascinating guy keep going 🙏🏻🤘🏻
Hi Mike, greetings from Mexico, I follow you for your good videos, I have a 1968 bus and a 1971 Karmannghia which I have paid to put together and have them in show quality. My suggestion is that you consult a community manager to advise you on how to increase your views and advise you on what to do with your videos to increase your audience, you have to see it as an investment, and in the future hire a cameraman to edit the same videos.
Hey I’m a uk fan here! I’d love to see some local ( to you in SoCal) Vw shops, drag race circuits or shows…. I know you already do film the shows so please carry on they are great ! But maybe some asmr driving videos, nothing but some talking and the sounds of the Vw engines and the view of the scenery and a coastal route would be a bonus ! 😊 Would be great to see some in detail videos of well known VWs in the area , California look or vintage Thank you for all you do Tom 🇬🇧
I think you do a great job on your channel but if you are looking for suggestions to generate subscribers. I think you could feature other RUclipsrs on your channel and vice versa. For instance when you mentioned CT I joined his channel. I see loads of other RUclipsrs trying to broaden their channel by mutually featuring on each others channel. Secondary when you visit the shows you could find a few car owners could you do a video on their car and talk through the life or resto on that car. My understanding of the RUclips algorithm is that you have to be a consistent regular poster of content. I’d weekly and strictly adhere to it. Lastly you have the gift of the gab as we say in Ireland. You could talk about sandpaper grades for 30 minutes and we would all listen. You could possibly take small topics and post more frequently. Just trying to help. Good luck. Great channel take care.
Your channel is amazing - has helped me so much on Volkswagen knowledge and the entertaining stories you’ve told. As others have said, I think the main issue is peoples attention span is just in the dumps. People are to addicted to tiktok and that garbage. So I hope you can keep the great style of content but change it just enough for the younger people to watch through. Wishing you and your channel good luck !
December-February it takes a dip ☹️ It’s not just you my friend. I get anxiety more than I used to. Have my thoughts on it. Mornings are not fun, that’s when it kicks in. I stopped riding after my whole life. I’m now 60! I have rust here in Pa that’s for sure. This economy is a mess! Prices are very high on the east coast. I watch you more than you think. I watch on tv. I should pick Up my phone more and comment. We all have more to our lives than just VWs. Of course they’ve been my whole life. Hearing you talk about life and common things we all think about is not a bad thing. How about some live chats once in a while? That would be good, you’re a good guy to listen too. If people get insulted too bad. Keep your chin up buddy!! We’re here for you!!!
@ sadly it is my friend. I don’t say too much online because everybody gets freaked out. But it’s very realistic what’s going on. Hopefully it changes, I’m getting too old for it, my brother.
@@mikethepainter and something kind of whimsical. My father was a painter for 42 years. Sadly, he has no longer with us. Everybody thinks they can go in and just paint. So I can relate with what you mean. It’s an art!
@@mikethepainter oh man, I would’ve not been very happy. It is a very skilled trade. I would do extra work on the weekends with my father. Now keep in mind, I am not ever or will be as good as my father, or you. But whoever said that, obviously was being a wise guy, or they know nothing about it. That takes a special talent and a special person. And many years of practice and learning. I know what you do, my friend you have my respect that’s for sure.
Hi Mike, I was born in 1962, and that's why I started watching you rebuild the 62 bucket truck. The same goes for CT's 62 van "Rusty." I'm wondering if you could travel and help CT on any of those projects like the Carmen Ghia 🤔
Hey Mike, Thanks for sharing your thoughts, man. As a viewer for years now for me, the 67 bus restoration was the best. I still use it today building my 67. I lov watching your fabrication work. I watch another channel called Nik Colyer Machine shop. He's an old hippie. But he does a story time segment, i lov it. The stories in your head are priceless I'd lov to hear some. So, thanks again for sharing ✌️ Peace from Melbourne Australia.
Mike great reflection of life, you share your knowledge and inspire people. I think working in other people’s projects and documenting the process would be a good balance for keeping the faith and live to the end of the month. Hope someone gets this great opportunity to have you as a supporter to restore a car, even if is not a VW
I think we need to organize or at least get a lot of people to contact their CA congressman to make it so that a car only needs to pass smog. For example, an 84 Corvette, even if it passes smog cannot use aftermarket engines/parts.
Hi Mike, Some additional thoughts: How can you monetize without compromising your core values? Make a video series for each project on the bug/bus? Bug Me videos are fantastic but the production is dated and Wade seems to be out of the game. Have a free section and a section that is a paywall, teach a class one night a week (LA trade tech for example), Muir's book is the bible, but it's hard to navigate, write a book, tap into your contacts (shops, old gear heads, distributors) and have them put links on their pages, product reviews are awesome, hold clinics for new guys (like me), make banners with your links and fly them at the shows you attend. It's a brave new world out there with new opportunities. Again thanks for your thoughts. Remember the world is changing faster than some of old heads can keep up with. Do you have merch or swag? Some to sell and some to hand out at the events. Good luck brother.
I was having the exact same thought while listening to Mike. It's clear that the Bug Me series will not continue, and there is so much more ground to cover that they never got around to. I would gladly pay for relevant content that takes up the mantle where Rick Higgins left off.
An idea I have would be to feature a different type of Volkswagen. Something like a Huel Howser episode where everything has its place and purpose. Feature a split window bug, feature a barndoor bus, feature a type 34, Kubelwagon, Etc. etc. Keep up the good work. It's a great channel with loads of valuable information. Thanks for sharing.
Mike , I would like to see more in-depth videos on awesome cars you come across at the shows or local cars . Like you I have built cars most of my life and can't seem to stop, I am 71 years old now and just started on restoring a rust bucket 1957 oval. My wife is not happy about it but she understands it's what makes me tic . I was born in San Jose CA and left Cali in 1987 and moved to North Carolina. I didn't like the way Cali was headed. Just my opinion but the government in California is strangling it's citizens and draining every cent it can from you. Love all your videos , keep up the great work.
the perfect way to explain it is Gavin Newsome is Tone Deaf. Does not listen to the people at all. I really like NC and SC....Been all over there Like Greesville SC and just south of Charolette. Also the beach towns. WilliamsBurg....or something like that. Nicest people I have ever met in that area. Spent months there just about every year from 2016-2019
Hey Mike. I love your videos. Don't have a huge network of like minds in my area even living just miles away from Berrien buggy/ ACME. I started off as a motorcycle guy, had a couple bugs as a teen but definitely didn't know what I was doing. If I had guys around like you, I'd probably be just as far along in VW as I am with 2 wheels. I managed to get back into VW in my early 30s, before VW channels became a thing. Now it's just a battle of balancing budgets and keeping momentum(even if it's painfully slow). The VW vids help keep me motivated on my 2 cars. I personally get more viewing time in the winter. Out here in PA too cold to mess around outside. My suggestion: not all the VW vids need to be long vids. There's piles of gems of advice you can share from decades of experience. The stuff lots of new people want to see often often thought of by people with experience. When you've got piles of experience, you're less likely to think those little things are important since they're natural to you and part of your daily life. As far as thinking of new content: Break the larger project into categories, break the categories into sections and those sections into segments. I know those long vids can be extremely labor intensive, so maybe try finding the gems in small segments, ask the audience, and find all those details, gems of advice, and tool knowledge that many of the younger generation and people new to the game don't know. Should be noted that the younger generations tend to not watch as much of the long form vids. You're a smart humble guy, you said it yourself and you know it. There's things you've honed the ability to do that others can't compete with. Id love to see you keep making a living passing that torch. I know you hear it a lot, but if you keep paying California to abuse you, they're only incentivized to do it more. If you can make it in CA, I commend you, but always remember to weigh out of the benefits in CA justify that sacrifices you make for the state. Again I thank you Mike, and understanding your circumstances, I'm going to make sure I keep actively searching your channel rather than relying on RUclips to alert me since it seems they've been failing at that. Thanks!❤
Just keep doing your thing. I've been working on a 70 Karmann Ghia for a few years between other projects. I would like to see a video on bodywork where you sort of show what you would think is the minimum quality that you would recommend. I liked when you talked about the difference from an 8 and a 10 with respect to quality of bodywork repair/paint. I will probably only ever do a 6 on the Ghia. I just want to get it on the road.
Thanks for Sharing.........."Life is a Journey; Sit back and Enjoy the Ride." Do what you must do, to make your Life "Simpler, Easy and Manageable". Thin out anything that you know you will not get back to anywhere in the foreseeable future, so you can focus on what you can. Talks like these are fine but I think keeping them in to 15-30 min range will get more views because it is too long otherwise.
This is the Best VW channel! Most comprehensive information about keeping your VW alive and thriving in today's world. Hang in there buddy, good things are coming!
You have been a wealth of VW knowledge. Maybe relax a bit from all the work, keep your favorite VW and take it for cruises and to shows. I am 58 years of age, I left my 1971 Beetle for 12 months untouched. I suffer from depression and anxiety. I finally am installing a more reliable 1600 twin port pretty stock engine, getting rid of the highly strung 1916cc engine so I can enjoy the car once again. Take some time to look after your own wellbeing. All the best for 2025.
Been watching you for years and you’ve given me the confidence to undertake so many things I never would have considered without your help
Hang on in there Mike - your channel inspires me and many others to work on our VWs across the globe. I always look forward to your content. Your anxiety will pass .
It’s a pity that you can’t monetise inspiration. That is, the volume of inspiration that you have generated among the VW community. You are one of the constants I have relied on to give me the confidence to tackle a bug, and now a bus.
Mike in my opinion you are my favorite and the Glue that keeps me going.
I too are getting a bit older 64yo and had major health issues over the last few years. I'm ready to finish my 56 oval ragtop, have everything parts/paint ect.
and your videos are amazing help for me
Maybe, a suggestion for your channel is to visit different people that are working on their VW project, it would be a boost for me ! Maybe others?
Thank you for all you do and take care.
Señor Mike, your Humble , No B.S Voice is the Voice I’ve needed. Watching your Videos have given me and my 15yr old daughter the Dream of working on her 1st pre-65 VW bug. But seeing the Greed by resellers has made us feel like it’ll never happen. I’ve even asked for a donated running car for her and have been laughed at. We can’t afford a car for her to go to school and work. Times have Changed. I believe You Are “ The VW Voice” of RUclips. A TV show is what you need my Amigo. Your A STAR ⭐️
Keep your chin up buddy, we love you !
Looking forward to future videos
Thanks for all the VW and painting advice you've given me over the years from your videos. First time I've written to you, but want to more in the future. Hope this year goes better for you. Cheers. Adrian Kole in Newberg, OR.
That is so overwhelming it brings me to tears. Thank you so much.
@@Mikefngarage You're so welcome, Mike. I really appreciate your practical advice based on real world experience (as just one example, IIRC how lap welding can be perfectly acceptable or even preferred for strength over butt welding). You've been a real partner as I continue restoring my '68 Beetle (which I currently can't drive as I think I must have burned at least one valve after a darned tappet nut came loose in my 2110!--argh).
Hi Mike: Your channel inspires, informs and instructs many of us VW enthusiasts. As to new content: I would like to see how you find the vehicles and parts that you work with. Show us in RUclips land the "junkyards" and parts places you go to in your quest to save vintage Volkswagens. Thanks,
good idea. I can probably do that and it wont be hard to do
Mike I wish we had your channel back when my in laws VW van was acting up. I miss that funky little thing.
Please keep up the excellent content. I love your channel.
The secret to sucess may be is to make shorter videos and release on specific days of the week ... on day, Volkswagen restoration , one day motor upgrades , another that trailer project and so on ?? Kind regards Alex
I heard you mention Glamis. What about doing a Railbuggy build and taking it to Glamis? I bought an old piece of junk railbuggy about 5 years ago. I had never owned or worked on an aircooled VW before. I’ve learned a lot by watching channels like yours. I built an engine, repaired the transaxle, rebuilt the brakes. So thanks for your help!
Appreciate your channel and your approach to these cars. It takes a lot of strength to talk about this stuff. Hang in there man, hope 2025 is good to you.
Good job Mike. Love the channel. Love the personal touch and approach to things. I would love to have you do some live vids and answer quick questions or share thoughts.
Hi Mike: your channel inspires me to get my high school 61 VW Manx style buggy back on the road and knowing it doesn’t have to be perfect and that you’re passing on your knowledge to help me get the project back finished. Any knowledge you’d like to pass on I’m interested in learning. I’m a visual learner! Thank you!!
I’ve had my vw channel for almost five years and have earned zero dollars. People don’t really watch my long form videos so I mostly do shorts on my projects. What I’ve found from others is live streaming really kicks things up. The trouble for me is I never wanted the channel to be about me so I’m never shown in the video. But the more you are involved the more your audience connects with you. I have your channel linked to mine as I really appreciate your work! Thank you!
I have appreciated that you have done many VW projects that have been actually finished. I did one easy project nearly 10 years ago. I think because of the price and project cost increases and lack possibility people just can't do restorations as before so they can't relate to that, also lacking of skills. Only your own labor is same but so many other things have changed in last few years. Maybe make videos of smaller projects also outside of VW scene?
Small segment videos and smaller resto projects - (long time subscriber). I remember the short vidoe on the Bucket Truck's speedo, or segments that focus on interior restoration (the sewing videos), rebuilding carbs for the VW (perhaps more detail on the factory correct restoration/rebuilds).,...in addition to segments such as this (life lessons for us gen Xer's, and later) from men such as yourself, that have "ben there, done that"
Keep up the great work. I appreciate the efforts. Cheers,!
yea great ideas. Thanks.
Just subscribed! Thanks for sharing
Thanks for stopping by!
Hey Mike. What you're saying is echoed over and over here in SoCal. I don't have much to offer for life advice but your VW content is great for us diy-ers.
Not all of us have money for new cases, cranks and the rest. I really enjoy your videos where you take good used parts and build a solid, reliable engine. Your insight into what parts to keep and what to trash along with the reasons behind your thoughts are fantastic. I built my first VW engine in over 20 years because of your videos and you gave me the confidence to go ahead and do it. Now I'm on to another couple of builds and I have you to thank.
So thank you Mike. I wish you the best.
I have an 1835 that i might be putting together pretty soon. Mostly used parts. I was thinking the same thing.
I'm over 60 and retired as well. Your videos have been so helpful as I have messed around with my 1965 VW as well as my 1971 VW, which I have raced at SCCA Autocross events. My latest dream is to build a replica Kubelwagen. Perhaps make one from a deteriorated "Thing". I haven't seen to may folks posting anything about that type of project. Maybe of interest to you and your audience ?
You got this ! 💪
Mike thanks for being honest, If the world had more people like you it would be better off .
But its people like you that make RUclips what it is . That is why we watch it ...thanks for your knowledge. Keep it up I'm 61 this yr and have a two projects but thanks to you I working on them and if I don't get them done its just the journey for me . its my pill All my close friends are Vw Guys and Gals
cheers ,
Love your content. Do what you can do!
keep going mike. i am tito from mombasa- kenya. your channel mikefngarage is the reason i got a 1966 vespa scooter and started a rebuild last year after watching your videos back to back. I am riding it now on weekends and it still is a rolling restoration. i dream of one day finding a vw bug or bus and restoring that too. thanks to your channel my mental state is much better. I hope yours too improves
Are there even bugs in kenya? I know peugeot did very good business in africa
@@fritzkuhne2055 bugs are in kenya. most are early supers. split windows are very rare. saw someone selling his oval at the concours for 18000 usd
@@fritzkuhne2055 yes. bugs are here in kenya.
Mike, chin up and keep doing you.
What i personally would LOVE to see, is more content with the bucket. I think it could be your cashcow! How about some more actual work with it?
Some collaborations with other VW channels in the area?
You got something special, this truck HAS to be the only one in country!
Would love for you to share more of your knowledge with us. That sounds great.
I know you say the big projects cost you too much time and money but for me it was the bucket truck that got me hooked on your channel, Musty1 and his pick up the same. I've stopped watching CT now as got ged up of him rescuing cars and starting projects he never finishes , i was really looking forward to seeing Rusty finished and on the road.
So for me I'd say keep going with the big projects even if you take them a little slower and break them down in to smaller sub projects.
Very funny. Sounds like my life. Love to see the long builds. I couldn't get enough of the bucket truck build. You do it all Mike. 😂
Hi Mike, thank you for all the advice you gave me through the channel. I'm new to the VW world and I have used your VW wisdom to avoid some pitfalls like how to organize the project which basically gave me a macro understanding of the VW rehab. I had an Idea about what you might do to generate more capital. Have you looked into making parts using a 3d printer? Your knowledge and understanding of the VW world would be a home run! Anyhow thanks so much and rock on.
Yea 3d printing would be really cool. I need to learn that. Reproductions stuff made on that would be great.
I visited my local VW shop in Sparks NV Friday. He's had the business up for sale since the first of the year. He's looking to retire. I wasn't brave enough to ask the price.
I won't be the first to tell you that leaving California is a good idea. But also embracing a minimalist life is an even better idea.
Been watching your channel for a long time and hope the best for you Mike.
Yea need to simplify things. Change it up, Hunker down. Property taxes are pretty low for me here. Keep expanding youtube. I think it will pay off eventually.
As others have said, hang in there. Life sometimes just creeps up on us and one day we realise that there just isn't enough hours in the day or energy in the body to do everything we want to do, BUT we take comfort from falling over piles of junk ("future projects"). I subscribe to lots of channels but enjoy your real-world/home-DIY approach. I've been restoring cars at home since the age of 18 (I'm 55 now) and if it wasn't for having cars in the garage I'd have gone insane years ago. Cars and the garage are my escape room!
can totally relate to you
Mike - Thank you for sharing and being so open. Have you thought about a short "collaboration" -- just one or a few videos -- with folks like CT? This is one of the best ways to grow audience #'s quickly as his subscribers will be exposed to your channel/you and vice-versa, and you guys can call that out and ask folks to subscribe
I agree I think some collabs would be a wonderful idea.
Mike your channel is inspiring and just like you said about your sign business. I think your RUclips is the best. I can't wait for each video to come out wish you well God be with you
What you are doing in this video is therapy. A little bit for us and a lot for you. For me, I like the tours and shows. Engine building is second just for the education..I can do very basic maintenance. The fellow who built my engine is 74 years old and still does great work. I hope you can figure it out, I think the subscribers will hang with you. VW channels here in Texas have thrown in the towel. Investigate membership. Keep trucking.
You are a total titan. I love your car content and have incredible admiration for your titanium balls in tackling some of the most difficult car projects I’ve seen. What I’ve noticed is that viewership and subscriber numbers in channels don’t have anything to do with great content or knowledge. Some channels that aren’t even worthy to shine your boots have more subscribers; I think it’s ridiculous and unfair. I guess people’s attention spans are really short; they just go for the barn find, will it starts and power wash videos. I find those boring if they don’t have a continuation to a conclusion like yours. I have noticed that the key to their success is they have more varied content that appeals to more people.
Happy 2025 to you and yours, my dear sir!
agree fully. And so many people would rather watch suck uninformative trash. Somehow I need a bridge between that and what I do.
Whats up Mike! Nice piece of land space in the back. It would be nice to turn it into a food forest with several organic vegetables, grapes and fruit trees. Film the whole process and harvest. Sell some of the crops at a local farmers market for extra cash.
Great idea
Mike, when I listen to you, I feel the same. I think I am just getting old and tired. I have a yard full of ATCs that I know I will never ride again. Time to thin down the projects and embrace my new reality. I have met you in person (Bug-in a few years ago) and you are a wealth of knowledge. Keep entertaining us!
as a small business owner; I understand the frustration of the bureaucracy and hoops that we need to jump through. I appreciate your videos and thanks for all you do. I'm 56 and starting to feel it as well. all I can say is "slow Productivity" do what you love and enjoy the time. thanks for it all!
Mike I love the stories about the 80s ! Especially the Earl Scheib stories
yea I was thinking about some old VW stories. But havent thought enough about them and how to make them interesting. Earl sheib was a Super fun experience. So glad I spent that week in there.
Thanks Mike! I'll keep watching and learning things from your postings.
Maybe a video(s) of you touring other shops. Pets like a mascot cat or dog (puppy) get a wider group watching.... sorry you're finding yourself at this crossroad. If you drove a VW around and answered peoples questions that they ask you about it....that always happens to me and you get some cool stories from people..... no charge! But I don't know about getting folk's permission?
Hope someone comes forward with a project they are willing to fund that you can put on this channel. Keep the faith....
I will say that your channel has helped me BEYOND words with my VW knowledge.........and I got that from you for free, without even knowing you. I feel guilty..........You are a golden soul for what you share. I have no words for how thankful I am for the help you provided.
That was and still is what I was doing this for.....
Mike. I watch Wrenching Wrecked, DD Speed Shop, and UTG. These guys bring junkers out of the yard and off of market place (with the minimum needed to get them running and safe) and then sell them. The stuff always moves. Just showing the basic stuff you do has always helped me. You are a blessed mechanic. The other 90% of the world are hacks like me. If it wasnt for you and you tube we would be stuck. Set up a wide angle camera, throw the bug in the yard together with what you have, make a video showing everyone how to find the parts you need (new and used). Get it running, primered, and rolling and sell it. While your doing that take some pics and start on the toy hauler on the same channel. Show fixing it up then people will want it. Dan on DD Speed shop has people buying his stuff before its already done. And you must get out and walk every day. Take a pencil and pad with you. Ideas and set ups for the show will come to you. Exercise is essential for the body and mind. Jeff
Ideas: Go around to all your VW friends & do an interview/ car spotlight stories, friends, trips, whatever. Make the interview edited down to maybe 30-45 minutes max. Get one of those gopro attachments that mounts outside the car & drive around cool places. Still do your How-to videos, maybe cut up specific segments of your old content into bite-size informational/tutorial whatever. Sit down & do technical deep-dives on your favorite or in-depth knowledge of parts of the VW. You & so many other OG VW owners are retiring, getting old, dying & so much knowledge is lost forever.
God bless & good health to you.
P.S. My own personal wish is since I guess you are in a sign-making trade, I want to see you go out on a job with the cherry picker & put old girl to work.
Aging definitely sucks in its own way. It’s very tough to realize that we won’t be able to continue doing some of the things we love to do. I do agree that not all the repairs done on all these cars need to be metal finish perfect. There’s a time and place for everything and getting the cars back on the road is the most important. Now that’s obviously meaning it’s a structurally safe repair. Definitely good information that you putting out there and people need to hear it. As far as ideas for the channel ….. I guess you could do it more like CT does which absolutely amazes me . Just start the camera and do 1 panel straight through and make a 45 min video out of it. No offense to him but I’m shocked he gets the views he does but I’ll give it to him it works!
Keep them running....you do amazing work.
Hey Mike, you have been very inspirational to me and others. one day at a time and let's make it happen
We hauled all our stuff (and our four VW’s) out of Yorba Linda to Nevada a decade ago. We saw the future of California over-regulation and made the call to abandon ship.
I agree, everyone of my friends who left California feel they have a new lease on life... Tennessee and South Carolina to name a few where my friends moved to and each say it's changed their lives for the better... One friend went from paying $1,250 a month ($15k a year) in California property taxes to about $67 a month ($800+ a year) in property taxes. Just one example of financial freedom.
I was born in San Jose Ca in 1953 and left Cali in 1987 because I saw it was headed in the wrong direction. It's so sad because there is no state more beautiful than California.
I moved to North Carolina and realized I could actually by a home .
California is just sucking it's residents dry .
@@blacksmithnc Policies in States that drain & punish taxpayer citizens financially for the benefit of those who came into and just take from society (illegals) without ever having contributed is why, in a large part, we are in this mess. In terms of State policies California, New York and the like lead the way in these terrible public policies and is why the flight from these states by those who are fed up have been growing each passing year.
Algorithm love! All people like this comment above and help Mike out a bit!
Move to Las Vegas Mike we need vw guys like you here. Love your channel.
You do a great job
Hey Mike, here from your painting channel. Thanks alot for all the knowledge you've taught me. I even called you once for tips on painting my old work truck. Ive also been passing down that knowledge to my new construction crew mostly youngins. Just wanted to say thanks a ton! Wishing I could meet you one day since I'm in Orange County. Would love to get a handshake.
Don't give up on what you enjoy doing for a living.
I love real talk videos like this. It’s cool when you can feel like you know someone that you have never met. You’re right about money. I have talked to so many people lately, and everyone is broke! I appreciate your videos and I love watching videos of people I like doing other things besides cars. Stay strong brother!
Good times 🎉 I have enjoyed your videos over the years. I like the restoration series that you do. The car shows are ok. I like when you have footage of driving the bucket truck down the freeway. Doesn’t have to be an over the top vehicle. I see bugs for sale that still seem like a bargain. What about the free bug that someone gave you. Fix that one and sell it. I talked to a guy the other day who had a split window bus and said his transmission was cracked. Then I saw a trans on market place. He didn’t know anything about working on it. In the 90s I lived in Humboldt county. It was an old Victorian house with a bunch of hippies living there. We had 4 bay windows and a couple of split window busses. We were doing engine swaps on a weekly basis. This guy had a 64 camper with no engine or transmission. We took a transmission out of an abandoned bus we found in town, took a 1600 out of a 69 bay and made a runner. Later they dug a hole and turned the 69 bus into a septic tank . We were buddies with the local Vw mechanic shop owner. He was straight out of Germany and spoke ok English. Sometimes he would stop by and give us expert advice for a trade. Many were growers at that time as well. Always loved the Vw 🎉
Whatever you post I'll be there. Your knowledge of VW helps everyone who is interested in them. The Nova project would be Bad A.. too!! Keep up with videos, I'll be watching!!!
Consider going to anything VW related places and interviewing people about their specialties, Visit Wolfsburg West and show the facility and interview. Source VW stuff and create interesting videos with location and people. This doesn’t cost money except for traveling.
I'm 67. Rode desert in my teens and almost lost my left foot. Skated pools in my 20's and broke my wrists 5 times. Started mountain biking in the 80's and continued until 2022 when I got bladder cancer. I had to give up riding. It's almost worse than the cancer. I'm cured now, but at least I was there and did it when I could. No regrets.
I love your video's, the advice we get on building motors, just fantastic. My take on this is you need one car to drive and one to work on ... Perhaps you should be restoring cars as a business. I feel your pain though, I can't let go of anything either, I think it has a lot to do with growing up poor.
We all get older and have to slow down a bit, that's the way it is.
First off I want to let you know that I cherish this channel, your skill and your candor. I live vicariously through you and this channel because I have ZERO skills right now and am still trying to find the courage to start. In re suggestions from the channel...the thing that comes to my mind is that VW isn't just a car make-ITS A LIFESTYLE. Its a family. With all the shows you go to and all the people you know in the VW community I definitely think you should do a weekly released "VW stories." Whether its about a specific car or someone talking about "the good ole days," etc. Some of the most popular videos on the Porsche Club of America is a guy named Nathan Merz who does these amazing deep dive videos that are buyer's guides. Basically have a video or two each week that is just sitting in front of the camera OR walking around a specifice model (like you kind of already do when you go to shows). I also think you should do some collabs with other content creators, even if its a "let's go visit ____ at their shop."
At the 38:00-39:00 you mention people asking you to work on their projects. What about doing some "Rescue My Restoration" videos. Other people who are stalling on their projects or have run into something beyond their skill level could have you come out and teach/coach/mentor them over their roadblock. Think Gordon Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmare with less angst and f-bombs! LOL You could also have people who are looking for a project have you come with them to evaluate whether to buy the project they are looking at for sale.
Quick flips projects videos. How about doing live videos answering questions.
Hey Mike, this is Whit (and John) withe the 65 split camper who you chatted with at the last Deer Park Winery show. 👋 I was thinking about it last week, I like listening to you talk so I often put the videos on at night to fall asleep to. I would think videos talking would be awesome.
As far as things to help viewership, what about a graphic of a pretty lady that is in all the thumbnail--something like the WWII ladies on planes but have it be on a beetle? Going to shows like Pomona more often with all kinds of cars, focusing on one really cool car in the thumbnail that might draw in viewership from other car groups? Fast motion videos of body work, no audio just showing how things work, but quickly? Other fast motion videos of repairs could be cool too--just throw some copyright free music in the background. Could you get a sidekick so you can banter back and forth, someone who also speaks well but gives alternate perspectives? For me personally, I think people would do it just to glean some knowledge from your experience. Podcast style where you sit and compare parts, like a brazillian carb vs a solex would be interesting. You could go live with a Q&A session where people can Superchat you for answers every so often for additional income. I've heard on other channels that the 'shorts' in the vertical format are necessary to gather new viewers but I am not entirely sure how that works--A surfer named Koa Rothman has a channel (his name) where he uses them often. Drive videos with no talking, just mounted behind you showing shifting and perspective are something I watched a lot early on when I was new to VW's--I honestly learned how to drive a manual at 40 by watching those videos! Driving stick is another thing that I think could get viewers across more markets/car makes.
Look at other channels who have grown the fan base super quickly--This is How We Bingham is one I know of--and see how they title (all caps, click bait) and the wording. Look at their video descriptions and see how they add tags and links too.
Phew, I know that's a lot--I really hope you can figure things out, and quickly--we're rooting for you! See you at a show soon!
Yea great ideas.....I could even use existing footage and do some of those full build videos.....I will incorporate that. Make like 2 videos with the same footage. I have done that a few times on my other channels. different tags....Different thumbnails.
I really enjoy your videos. They are a great source for vw knowledge. You continue to help me. Wishing you all the best for 2025!
I dig all your videos. And southern idaho would love to have ya!
I love Idaho.....it is so much better than many places. My wife is pretty liberal. We do agree on many things but there are some she just polarizes left on. She would never live in Idaho or Texas.
@mikethepainter my wife is a lib from Idaho. I'm a conservative from Portland. Lol, my move made me very happy 😊
Personally I like the shop talk vids periodically. I don't always want a demonstration, sometimes the explanation is what I need to have it all make sense.
Hang in there Mike, your a good person, we are ALL geting old, I'm 63 and retired after 32 yrs w/the same company, we now have 6 cars on Hagerty plus 4 daily drivers for just me and my wife PLUS 2 bay window buses that needs total rebuilds, want some projects? lol IMHO the scary thing about RUclips is your being paid by google and their honest right? LMAO, they can tweak the algorithm anytime they want and the avg content provide like you would never know. I enjoy your rebuild videos and you vw car show coverage.
Glued to this vid. Thanks.
Do what you could get excited about!
First time I have ever donated to anyone on RUclips.
Thanks so very much.
thank you so much for all your help.
I enjoy listening to your take on life & life experiences. Those videos mixed in with VW content would be interesting.
hi Mike... myself from Malaysia. Inflation is madness same as what is you facing in US. Cost of living is getting higher and higher by day. Maintaining a VW Bettle is expensive over here. Life have to move on and we have to manage it. Hang on and keep it up there... Cheers :)
Hey Mike, it's Gary here from Nairobi in Kenya.
We have quite a few VW guys over here, (I have a 69 and 73 Bug), we LOVE your videos, we see stuff in them that we can only dream of over here! Don't get down on yourself, maybe it's time to just slow down a little, enjoy your cars? Whatever you do, keep enjoying yourself and your VDubs! All the very best from Nairobi.
I commend you for asking for help sir!
I'm active with my buggy in the summer and less likely to watch your videos. Winter is when I'm scanning for ideas and tricks for my buggy
Mike! lets go for a ride in my Scirocco ! VW forever!
Love watching you do body and paint work Mike. Why not take a trip to see CT and teach him to paint a bug. Maybe the crossover will help drive your viewership. I hate those patina resto’s 😂 @ctmoog what do you think?
Hey Mike, i think it would be cool to see you work on the things thats you have put off for a while. Like installing the disc break kit or getting the tdi running. I feel we all have those things we keep putting on the back burner but it feels good to actually getting around it them.
I’ll be honest and say to you I have only watched a couple of your uploads when I was once looking to buy a 13 window bus.. I’m going back about 7 years ago.
But I would like you to know I watched this from start to finish listening to your every word and enjoyed listening to.
Anxiety, stress and depression is something I know about.
I wish you, your wife and family all the very best for 2025
🇬🇧🇺🇸
I don’t have much knowledge about YouTubing but a fairly big channel I watch here in the uk got great results just buy being very regular with uploads! Like so for example everyone knows every Saturday a video came out, even if it’s short !!? You seem a fascinating guy keep going 🙏🏻🤘🏻
I love the vw stuff you do, and your knowledge.
Thanks!
thank you so much.......everything helps.
Hi Mike, greetings from Mexico, I follow you for your good videos, I have a 1968 bus and a 1971 Karmannghia which I have paid to put together and have them in show quality. My suggestion is that you consult a community manager to advise you on how to increase your views and advise you on what to do with your videos to increase your audience, you have to see it as an investment, and in the future hire a cameraman to edit the same videos.
Hey I’m a uk fan here! I’d love to see some local ( to you in SoCal) Vw shops, drag race circuits or shows…. I know you already do film the shows so please carry on they are great ! But maybe some asmr driving videos, nothing but some talking and the sounds of the Vw engines and the view of the scenery and a coastal route would be a bonus ! 😊
Would be great to see some in detail videos of well known VWs in the area , California look or vintage
Thank you for all you do
Tom 🇬🇧
I think you do a great job on your channel but if you are looking for suggestions to generate subscribers. I think you could feature other RUclipsrs on your channel and vice versa. For instance when you mentioned CT I joined his channel. I see loads of other RUclipsrs trying to broaden their channel by mutually featuring on each others channel. Secondary when you visit the shows you could find a few car owners could you do a video on their car and talk through the life or resto on that car. My understanding of the RUclips algorithm is that you have to be a consistent regular poster of content. I’d weekly and strictly adhere to it. Lastly you have the gift of the gab as we say in Ireland. You could talk about sandpaper grades for 30 minutes and we would all listen. You could possibly take small topics and post more frequently. Just trying to help. Good luck. Great channel take care.
Your channel is amazing - has helped me so much on Volkswagen knowledge and the entertaining stories you’ve told. As others have said, I think the main issue is peoples attention span is just in the dumps. People are to addicted to tiktok and that garbage. So I hope you can keep the great style of content but change it just enough for the younger people to watch through. Wishing you and your channel good luck !
December-February it takes a dip ☹️
It’s not just you my friend. I get anxiety more than I used to. Have my thoughts on it.
Mornings are not fun, that’s when it kicks in.
I stopped riding after my whole life. I’m now 60!
I have rust here in Pa that’s for sure.
This economy is a mess! Prices are very high on the east coast.
I watch you more than you think. I watch on tv. I should pick
Up my phone more and comment.
We all have more to our lives than just VWs. Of course they’ve been my whole life. Hearing you talk about life and common things we all think about is not a bad thing.
How about some live chats once in a while? That would be good, you’re a good guy to listen too.
If people get insulted too bad.
Keep your chin up buddy!!
We’re here for you!!!
thanks Bud.....Interesting to hear about what is going on where you are too.....This Inflation is frightening.
@ sadly it is my friend. I don’t say too much online because everybody gets freaked out. But it’s very realistic what’s going on. Hopefully it changes, I’m getting too old for it, my brother.
@@mikethepainter and something kind of whimsical. My father was a painter for 42 years. Sadly, he has no longer with us. Everybody thinks they can go in and just paint. So I can relate with what you mean. It’s an art!
@@SladesVWBeetle I had a guy say on my painting channel.....Painting is hardly a skilled trade......I just about lost it on him.
@@mikethepainter oh man, I would’ve not been very happy. It is a very skilled trade. I would do extra work on the weekends with my father. Now keep in mind, I am not ever or will be as good as my father, or you. But whoever said that, obviously was being a wise guy, or they know nothing about it. That takes a special talent and a special person. And many years of practice and learning. I know what you do, my friend you have my respect that’s for sure.
Hi Mike, I was born in 1962, and that's why I started watching you rebuild the 62 bucket truck. The same goes for CT's 62 van "Rusty." I'm wondering if you could travel and help CT on any of those projects like the Carmen Ghia 🤔
Hey Mike,
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, man.
As a viewer for years now for me, the 67 bus restoration was the best. I still use it today building my 67. I lov watching your fabrication work.
I watch another channel called Nik Colyer Machine shop. He's an old hippie. But he does a story time segment, i lov it. The stories in your head are priceless I'd lov to hear some.
So, thanks again for sharing ✌️ Peace from Melbourne Australia.
Mike great reflection of life, you share your knowledge and inspire people. I think working in other people’s projects and documenting the process would be a good balance for keeping the faith and live to the end of the month. Hope someone gets this great opportunity to have you as a supporter to restore a car, even if is not a VW
I think we need to organize or at least get a lot of people to contact their CA congressman to make it so that a car only needs to pass smog. For example, an 84 Corvette, even if it passes smog cannot use aftermarket engines/parts.
Do interviews on VW joints in your area
part of the 2025 plan. Interviews.
@@Mikefngaragethat sounds great ! I’m a uk 🇬🇧 fan here and would love to see that
Mike i thought i was listening to my self hearing you talk , down to your wife's situation , for now get the Nova running cheers mate
i.drive.my..61.Beetle..all.the.time.Good.car.man.😊
Hi Mike, Some additional thoughts: How can you monetize without compromising your core values? Make a video series for each project on the bug/bus? Bug Me videos are fantastic but the production is dated and Wade seems to be out of the game. Have a free section and a section that is a paywall, teach a class one night a week (LA trade tech for example), Muir's book is the bible, but it's hard to navigate, write a book, tap into your contacts (shops, old gear heads, distributors) and have them put links on their pages, product reviews are awesome, hold clinics for new guys (like me), make banners with your links and fly them at the shows you attend. It's a brave new world out there with new opportunities. Again thanks for your thoughts. Remember the world is changing faster than some of old heads can keep up with. Do you have merch or swag? Some to sell and some to hand out at the events. Good luck brother.
I was having the exact same thought while listening to Mike. It's clear that the Bug Me series will not continue, and there is so much more ground to cover that they never got around to. I would gladly pay for relevant content that takes up the mantle where Rick Higgins left off.
@@wadek1974 I would too. Mike is an awesome guy, He reminds me of my uncle Allen.
Maybe build and sell rat rod style live in overland on the cheap Baja Bugs. With the economy there might be a need for these types of builds.
An idea I have would be to feature a different type of Volkswagen. Something like a Huel Howser episode where everything has its place and purpose. Feature a split window bug, feature a barndoor bus, feature a type 34, Kubelwagon, Etc. etc. Keep up the good work. It's a great channel with loads of valuable information. Thanks for sharing.
Mike , I would like to see more in-depth videos on awesome cars you come across at the shows or local cars .
Like you I have built cars most of my life and can't seem to stop, I am 71 years old now and just started on restoring a rust bucket 1957 oval. My wife is not happy about it but she understands it's what makes me tic .
I was born in San Jose CA and left Cali in 1987 and moved to North Carolina. I didn't like the way Cali was headed.
Just my opinion but the government in California is strangling it's citizens and draining every cent it can from you.
Love all your videos , keep up the great work.
the perfect way to explain it is Gavin Newsome is Tone Deaf. Does not listen to the people at all. I really like NC and SC....Been all over there Like Greesville SC and just south of Charolette. Also the beach towns. WilliamsBurg....or something like that. Nicest people I have ever met in that area. Spent months there just about every year from 2016-2019
Hey Mike. I love your videos. Don't have a huge network of like minds in my area even living just miles away from Berrien buggy/ ACME. I started off as a motorcycle guy, had a couple bugs as a teen but definitely didn't know what I was doing. If I had guys around like you, I'd probably be just as far along in VW as I am with 2 wheels. I managed to get back into VW in my early 30s, before VW channels became a thing. Now it's just a battle of balancing budgets and keeping momentum(even if it's painfully slow). The VW vids help keep me motivated on my 2 cars. I personally get more viewing time in the winter. Out here in PA too cold to mess around outside. My suggestion: not all the VW vids need to be long vids. There's piles of gems of advice you can share from decades of experience. The stuff lots of new people want to see often often thought of by people with experience. When you've got piles of experience, you're less likely to think those little things are important since they're natural to you and part of your daily life. As far as thinking of new content: Break the larger project into categories, break the categories into sections and those sections into segments. I know those long vids can be extremely labor intensive, so maybe try finding the gems in small segments, ask the audience, and find all those details, gems of advice, and tool knowledge that many of the younger generation and people new to the game don't know. Should be noted that the younger generations tend to not watch as much of the long form vids. You're a smart humble guy, you said it yourself and you know it. There's things you've honed the ability to do that others can't compete with. Id love to see you keep making a living passing that torch. I know you hear it a lot, but if you keep paying California to abuse you, they're only incentivized to do it more. If you can make it in CA, I commend you, but always remember to weigh out of the benefits in CA justify that sacrifices you make for the state. Again I thank you Mike, and understanding your circumstances, I'm going to make sure I keep actively searching your channel rather than relying on RUclips to alert me since it seems they've been failing at that. Thanks!❤
You can’t please all of the people all of the time Mike, just do what you enjoy ❤
watching all of your videos.
Just keep doing your thing. I've been working on a 70 Karmann Ghia for a few years between other projects. I would like to see a video on bodywork where you sort of show what you would think is the minimum quality that you would recommend. I liked when you talked about the difference from an 8 and a 10 with respect to quality of bodywork repair/paint. I will probably only ever do a 6 on the Ghia. I just want to get it on the road.
Thanks for Sharing.........."Life is a Journey; Sit back and Enjoy the Ride." Do what you must do, to make your Life "Simpler, Easy and Manageable". Thin out anything that you know you will not get back to anywhere in the foreseeable future, so you can focus on what you can. Talks like these are fine but I think keeping them in to 15-30 min range will get more views because it is too long otherwise.