Have more questions? Fire em off in the comments and I'll try to get you some answers. (Ideally in a new comment, not as a reply to this thread, because that'll be hard to keep track of)
Seems like you have hit the stride where you start outpacing those people who didn't work super hard and save like you did to get where you are. I hope my life trajectory is similar to yours. I'm 10 years behind and just starting youtube. I made a decent chunk of money working my butt off and investing in crypto and other alternative assets but I am far from rich. I quickly outpaced most of my friends though and have already started getting hate. People don't want to see you successful because it makes them feel bad about themselves for not getting what you went and got. I do have a house now but I don't think that the real estate trick is going to work for me or people my age (30). We probably won't have the astronomical appreciation in real estate that you got to capitalize on. We will have plenty of other options in crypto and AI though. I've been watching your channel for quite some time though i don't usually comment. I love what you make and you remind me of my big brother a bit also. Hope I can figure this youtube thing out I've been dreaming about starting a channel for a while and looking up to guys like you who have been doing it for a while. Hopefully I can really get after this and make something that people will get value from and enjoy.
Just purchased land in the mountains of Colorado, rhymes with Shmevergreen. Would you recommend building the home yourself or would you go with a builder? I’m a federal officer by profession, DIY’r by necessity.
Hey Mike, long time viewer here. Wife and I really, really want to move out west but have golden handcuffs ~2.7 int. rate on our small house. We had our first kid and are wondering if it's stupid to cash out and roll it into the new house, putting the minimum down with an FHA loan, vs renting our current home. Sounds like you mentioned this in the video- would interest rate affect that decision? If you had a great int rate, would you ever landlord remotely? Thanks for the video!
@@tom-uspsa Oof I know you asked mike and not me. Tough to give up a 2.7 int rate. If you bought a house for $450,000 at current interest rates it would cost you $521,271 in interest alone. pretty tough to dig out of that hole.
@@marcochavanneyou still have to work for the initial money. When you're starting out it's much easier to make a bunch of money working than it is to earn returns on a small amount of money. 5-10 years of really hard work will save you decades of waiting for interest to compound. I became financially independent in 5, if I hadn't worked really hard to build a hefty portfolio of investments I wouldn't even be close right now
Never even thought about how much Money you make. I just enjoyed your content over the years. As long as you and your family are comfortable, that's all that matters.
Really liked this! I just retired at 48 and moved to the ozark mountains to Homestead after sacrificing and working 110%. The "don't spend more than you make" is lost on so many people and glad you focused on that! I was told similar from family "it's not what you make, but how much you keep"! People always think hard workers got it handed to them. I started watching your channel since I was always into the overlanding, Homesteading, and prepping my whole life. You're young and on a great path! Keep it up!
As Mike would ALWAYS say in his intros. “I hope you’ve been well”. Idgaf where the money came from. You’re a genuine guy that works hard. You save people money. You share your life experience. I haven’t watched in a long time because I’m busy with life, but I hope you’ve been well. 🙏🏽
Been subbed between 5 to 10 years and I have gotten so many cool tips and tricks from your channel and you are one of the major RUclipsrs I’ve looked up to over the years. I always knew that with your work ethic and hustle you earned and deserve everything you’ve created for yourself. Great work brother truly inspiring. Take care and enjoy the rest and your time with the family. 😎👍
Mike, been watching your videos for years, never crossed my mind, your finances. To me, it's always been about your character, easy manner, and your laid-back style of sharing your weekly projects, lifestyle and your growing family obligations. Filming and editing are hard work. Appreciate you man. Rock on from Michigan!
One of the best honest videos I have seen from a RUclipsr. Honest and down to earth guy that just wants to spread knowledge and positive vibes. Keep up the good work! God bless you and your family.🤝🙏🏻
I really appreciate this video and the context. I am one of those who was starting to think that you were becoming a little unrelatable, honestly. I unfairly jumped to conclusions and thought you were just showing off a bunch of your stuff and you seem to always have new things that were really cool that quite frankly I envy. This video has put a lot of that into perspective, and I very much appreciate that you have worked hard for what you have. That hasn’t necessarily come through in previous videos, so this really solidifies it. Keep up the good work, and I apologize for being judgy, even though you wouldn’t have even known it. 🎉
I’m 37 and still feel like I’ve wasted a lot of my life not working as hard as I could have. Appreciate you putting this out there. It’s inspiration for me to get engaged and want to build.
I'm 29 and feel the same way. But, despite that feeling, I know I'm still doing the best I can. And I'm doing well. Hope the same goes for you. Keep at it, homie.
@@jeramieschmidt4911 there are 1,440 minutes in a day we sleep for 5 to 8 hours of it We can’t get a minute back so this is how you start your plan 480 minutes = 8 hr sleep 480 minutes = 8 hr work day 480 minutes = 8 hr your time with family or friends Now you can control your life better and make it worth it . Example Video games is waist of life . Drugs waist of life Social media debatable Getting angry Tv Etc Hope this helps its a challenge but now you may see the light of day Each day is beautiful Lets go !
I have never left a comment but I have definitely wondered how you afford the dream life before and I’m stoked to get some insight into your journey. Much love
I got divorced when I was about your age and it set me back. However, I sold my house a few years later snd invested in a fixer upper. Ended up buying more acreage behind and again next door. Now I’m 54 and have 20 acres, nice house, nice big garages, snd lots of toys. People hate on me too and think we’re rich but people who know me know how hard I have worked and what challenges I’ve had. Love your channel, keep up the good work and never look back brother. Thank your Dad for his service as well!!!
From $7k to $45k that's the minimum range of profit return every week I think it's not a bad one for me , now i have enough to pay bills and take care of my family.
I carry an LLOD holster as my EDC as a fed. I’ve watched lots of your videos, mostly for entertainment. You always come off as genuine. Very generous and willing to share more of yourself publicly than you need to. Like it or not, you are a role model for a lot of young men. Keep going.
Thanks Mike, I have been watching from close to the beginning and remember some of the videos you mentioned. Thanks for sharing your journey. I really enjoy all the content. My wife and I have started 3 businesses in the last 10 years (in the pastry world). You are so right it’s hard work sacrifice and dedication. Please keep doing what you are doing.
OG watcher here. I listened to this at the gym. Enjoy the dad life. It’s more fun than making money. I’m a rover guy, not a Toyota guy but I still watch the videos!
Appreciate you sharing your story, brother. Been following you for a while. Love the channel. I definitely can relate to you, as I recently retired of the military from active duty. I joined when I was 17. Earned my college degree‘s, paid for all my vehicles, owner of a home, and have numerous experience from the military. I’m still figure out when I wanna do it this next chapter of my life. Have a great day. God bless you.
Bought my first LLOD holster in 2016. You really do make the best holsters. I won’t use any others. Got a whole pile in my closet that never get used to prove it.
Those that have watched for years know you built everything you have through hard work. It’s awesome seeing you have so much hard earned success living the life we are all working toward. People hate seeing others succeed because it’s convicting to them. You make such relaxing content, I work for an anti s trafficking non profit and every time you drop a video it’s a nice mental escape seeing whatever cool thing you’re into. Inspired me to buy a camper and take a year long roadtrip next year! Keep it up man, God bless!
Mike, Thanks for your time, information and honesty. You’re an inspiration to a lot of dudes that just want to do better for them selves and their families. Keep on your path and keep growing. Your affiliation with uptop has been great to see, and their products and path are exciting to watch. God bless
I've been following your channel and journey for a few years now, and if you dont hear or see it enough, you inspire and motivate younger guys like me to enjoy the simple side of life but also being prepared for anything. Watching your videos was for entertainment at first but became a channel to learn some good knowledge from. You are blessed, sir! And we are here to support you.
Dude, I've been following you since before your first RTT video blew up. Your ascent was good to watch, and it was obvious you were working hard, and making good decisions. Don't let the haters get to you. Jealousy is ugly, and creates ugly behavior.
Mike, I have been following your channel for a long time. Great seeing your personal and professional growth is great man! Toast to hard work and staying humble!
Very cool background and upbringing Sir. Appreciate the details and enjoy the success! You’re one of the few that are still making videos that are worth watching.
39 here too! 1985 was a good year! It’s just a number. I’m an entrepreneur too and it can be daunting at times. I worked in corporate America til 2018. working a job where I can go in and leave and only focus on my one job sounds enticing sometimes , but I LOVE LOVE the freedom that being a business owner provides me. I can do whatever the heck I want to do whenever I want to and I don’t have to ask permission. That’s my favorite part of entrepreneurship. I too custom built my house and gc’ed the project in 2021-2022. It was a full time job!!! I was on site every single day for the 9 months we built it.
Considering how you owe us absolutely no explanation of your financial situation, this was a great and informative video for young men to watch. I’ve been watching your stuff for years and have always appreciated your content. Keep it up man!
I’ve been a fan of your videos since the OG days. Regardless of the algorithm or topic of the video, I like your storytelling. Tangents that aren’t too long, you don’t say “umm” that often. It’s always a chill time seeing what Mike is up to. Plus your backdrops are always 👌🏼
Always loved your content, when you mentioned you're Korean even more happy and proud to see a Korean/American break into the overland/off-road industry! Looking forward to more of your content as always!
Mike, Thank you for sharing such personal information. You have been a source of strength and inspiration for several years. Anyone with borderline intelligence can recognize how hard you work, it is very transparent. I will watch you after a 16-20 hour day, and see the same tiredness in your eyes and fell like i am not alone. I am happy for your success and you deserve every minute of it! Anyone else who talks poop about the fact it was handed to you hasn't worked very hard, hence they cant recognize hard work. Anyways, your awesome, and help so many people like me. I feel like i have a best friend to motivate me. Hard work, responsible decisions, mistakes made, and family man, your the poster hero for me. Hope you enjoy the holidays and get some good rest. Love ya brother, thank you.
Good for you man!!! I’ve been following you for years. I have your holster. I love it carry it every day. It’s my EDC go to and listening to this video is very inspiring and similar to my story. Congratulations on your family and your journey moving forward. Cheers buddy.
Loved the video Mike. So much good advice in this video.ive been watching you from day one. Thank you for the time you put into helping other people with this content.
Mike, this is great. Sucks that people have to be jealous and make foolish comments. I'm 7-8 years chronologically ahead of you, but waaay behind financially. My 13-year-old has an "assignment" to watch this and give me 5 take-a-ways that he learned.
The tax-free exclusion rule for real estate is a gamechanger that more people need to know about. For a single person, if it is your primary residence for 2 years, you can sell and take up to $250,000 of the gain with no tax... if you are married, you and your spouse can take up to $500,000 in the appreciation without tax.
I’ve been watching your channel for years, and I’ve always enjoyed the content. I don’t feel like you owe anyone an explanation of how you’ve gotten to where you are. Short answer, working your ass off!!! Thanks for the awesome content sir! You taught me a lot about concealed carrying when I first got my permit.
Hey Mike. Been following you since Covid. It was you that motivated me to buy my tacoma and get into off road. your journey is inspirational and I cant thank you enough for this video. It was super informative and helpful. Thank you.
I think I discovered your channel on the 3rd house in the driveway videos and have been following since then. I've noticed you have some cool toys and I love it. Enjoy your life the way you want I'm always happy to see people achieve good things in life that they work hard for it is motivating. Great video as always and wish you the best👍🏼
Thank you for this video. You're awesome, and I'm so glad you took the time to make this and explain that the choices you've made have compounded into your current success.
Appreciate you Mike, thanks for the openness, even though you didn’t have to, I’ve enjoyed your content for countless years, met you in person at a couple of expos, you’re definitely a stand up guy, keep it up and spend some quality time with your family!
Thank you for sharing your story, I hope you spend as much time as needed with your family and see those kids grow up. The influence us fathers have on them is immense.
I've been waiting for this video for a while , Nice to hear the story of how it all became what it is now . I used to have nice big house , new truck new camper , Then divorce happened last year , lost a big chunk of everything I've worked hard for over the past 15 years . I'm 38 now , basically starting over . Its tough man . Your story gives me hope that If I keep my head up , work hard and make smart financial decisions I can hopefully bounce back .
Thanks for sharing this bro. I’ve been tapping into your content for the past few years and have always had some takeaways from your work and for that I thank you again. Always felt you’re super real and legit. Interesting how comments can impact our lives in some way or another. Keep up the great work and we’re sending loads of love to you and yours✊🏽
Appreciate this video! Been a fan for a long time and was aware of the timeline more or less, but it’s nice to hear you lay it all out. Keep it up my friend 👊🏻
Man its been cool seeing you ever the years grow! And as someone who owns one of your holsters i can vouch they are very well made! I’ll probably buy another one soon actually!
I think you’re down to earth, both before and now. I met the 3 of you (before the babies) a couple of years ago and y’all were humble and kind. Great video!
Hey Mike, I have been with you from the very early years. I have one of your very first appendix rigs and I will never part with it! By far my favorite holster. Its been so cool to watch you grow and stay the same dude you were from those early days. This video is super cool of you to do because it is a look into your personal life and you are putting it out there for the world to see. Stay Rad Mike! Always a fan!
I have mad respect for you. Thank you for sharing, I know you don’t have to, and you did. It’s actually very inspirational. Good for you. Congrats on the new house, marriage and baby
Mike, I remember you talking about doing web development years ago at the old house. I’ve been following you for years and got into overlanding watching your videos after searching for Vertx pants. It’s cool to hear your life story. I have admired what you do and really look up to you. I’m also 37, so I can relate to the Middle ages haha. You rock man, you’re a really smart guy and very admirable. Thanks for putting it out there.
I've followed your journey for close to 9 or 10 years (since I was in high school). Biggest influence for me to buy a tacoma and a massive influence on my hobbies. Love watching you grow and really look forward to your continued success!
Love your channel. Always great content! Congrats on your life progress. As with most success it seems your key ingredient has been hard work. Keep it up!
What a gracious and generous response to those questions Mike. Those of us who remember the young and poor version of you know you have earned what you have. You’re an excellent example to young men. Congratulations on your growing family and the wisdom to devote time to them. GOD Bless Mike!
I'm one of your "old followers", I watched your trajectory and I was always curious about your capacity to work so hard. Being a DIYer myself, I realize how hard is to have side projects on top of your full time job. I rigged up my new '16 Tacoma pretty much on your advise and recommendations. I still have it, I love it. I bet there are many people like me that have gotten absolute value from your content and they are grateful for that. You are an example of doing well by doing good mentality.
Your holster was the first one I bought. I wish I didn’t, because every other holster I buy now doesn’t compare to yours! Best holster ever! You should definitely expand your holster selection, starting with Sig Sauer.
Hey Mike thx for sharing your personal business, I’m sure it will help a lot of people! And don’t be too hard on yourself, you are doing pretty good for being 39! If I could give you any advice would be to grow your holster company, maybe make more cool gear, im sure a lot of us would buy some! Stay blessed!
Amazing video bro, keep up the hard work and enjoying what life has to offer. I had the opportunity to meet you at our colorado expo and you took the time to snap a photo with me and my 4 year old. Much respect
Fantastic, and practical content! I’m sure this video will help a lot of young men and women out - if they were listening, and are motivated. God bless you, and your family. Colorado is absolutely beautiful, I miss it a lot.
Yo Mike - as a mortgage pro, I just wanna say thank you for touching on the life-changing benefits that come with homeownership. Many people don’t see how it can truly alter your life, financially, over 5-8+ years. There’s no other vehicle (other than daddy’s money lol) to get you ahead in life. Anyway, much love brother 🤝🏼 God bless you and the fam 🙏🏼
This is a great video, thanks for sharing! I agree, living on less than you make, leveraging compound interest, and having multiple streams of income is 🔑
Fruits of your labor and making good choices will get what you want to do "treat yoself" most people that have w2 jobs make the wrong choices and don't work hard. Keeping a reserve is very smart. Very inspiring. My son is the one who directed me to your channel a few years back. Very inspiring. Thanks for sharing
You are very driven and passionate about the things you pursue . On top of that you seem to have a very positive attitude . I love hearing success stories from a hard worker like yourself. May God continue to bless you and your family. Let the noise from haters fade away. I’m pretty sure you don’t let it get to ya anyway . Keep it up! Especially Toyota videos 😂
Love this video. Been watching you for years man and stoked that you're focusing on the family/homestead aspect. You'll never have babies again, they grow up!! I chose to turn down "big boy money" jobs to focus on what matters. It's all a matter of perspective. Sure I wish I made more money, but there are aspects of your life those who are "rich" will never have. Everything requires work, it's up to you to decide what's worth working for. In my eyes, you are rich in the most well-rounded way. Keep fighting the good fight brother and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Until the next vid, "hope you're doing well." haha
Useful. I remember wondering what you did for money about the time you started selling holsters. I think you mentioned in passing that you had just recently "built and sold another website." That actually helped nudge me into getting a career in IT in a very round-about way.
Dude, thank you for the honesty! I’m sorry if you’ve ever felt like you need to justify yourself because of comments, but I appreciate how real you are and your transparency and honestly advice! It’s the only sure way to grow wealth, live on less than you make 💪 keep it up! We appreciate you!
Have more questions? Fire em off in the comments and I'll try to get you some answers. (Ideally in a new comment, not as a reply to this thread, because that'll be hard to keep track of)
Seems like you have hit the stride where you start outpacing those people who didn't work super hard and save like you did to get where you are. I hope my life trajectory is similar to yours. I'm 10 years behind and just starting youtube. I made a decent chunk of money working my butt off and investing in crypto and other alternative assets but I am far from rich. I quickly outpaced most of my friends though and have already started getting hate. People don't want to see you successful because it makes them feel bad about themselves for not getting what you went and got. I do have a house now but I don't think that the real estate trick is going to work for me or people my age (30). We probably won't have the astronomical appreciation in real estate that you got to capitalize on. We will have plenty of other options in crypto and AI though. I've been watching your channel for quite some time though i don't usually comment. I love what you make and you remind me of my big brother a bit also. Hope I can figure this youtube thing out I've been dreaming about starting a channel for a while and looking up to guys like you who have been doing it for a while. Hopefully I can really get after this and make something that people will get value from and enjoy.
Just purchased land in the mountains of Colorado, rhymes with Shmevergreen. Would you recommend building the home yourself or would you go with a builder? I’m a federal officer by profession, DIY’r by necessity.
I really enjoyed this video and your story. Thanks for sharing a lot of personal info.
Hey Mike, long time viewer here. Wife and I really, really want to move out west but have golden handcuffs ~2.7 int. rate on our small house. We had our first kid and are wondering if it's stupid to cash out and roll it into the new house, putting the minimum down with an FHA loan, vs renting our current home. Sounds like you mentioned this in the video- would interest rate affect that decision? If you had a great int rate, would you ever landlord remotely? Thanks for the video!
@@tom-uspsa Oof I know you asked mike and not me. Tough to give up a 2.7 int rate. If you bought a house for $450,000 at current interest rates it would cost you $521,271 in interest alone. pretty tough to dig out of that hole.
People who don't want to work hard will always hate on those who do
Never hate on self-made individuals, it’s amazing to see. Just don’t have enough faith in myself to ever get there lol
Gen “whatever”… life is so hard. We a 3 hour a day work from home slacker job and we can’t buy a $2 million house. So unfair!
Investors don’t have to work at all.
@@marcochavanneyou still have to work for the initial money. When you're starting out it's much easier to make a bunch of money working than it is to earn returns on a small amount of money. 5-10 years of really hard work will save you decades of waiting for interest to compound. I became financially independent in 5, if I hadn't worked really hard to build a hefty portfolio of investments I wouldn't even be close right now
True
Never even thought about how much Money you make. I just enjoyed your content over the years. As long as you and your family are comfortable, that's all that matters.
Don’t trip on being 39. In ten years you’ll wish you were 39 again.
You’re in good shape, nice home and family, I assume you’re
Healthy
Good advice right here.
Exactly. I just turned 40 years old a couple weeks ago and I’ve been following him since 2017. 39 is young and prime
@@chrisginoc so is 40 just wait til you’re 50
Are we going to get A 2024 Holiday Gift Guide Video ? Every year i look forward to Mikes guide to what I should buy myself !
Agree!
Agreed
Planning on it!
Really liked this! I just retired at 48 and moved to the ozark mountains to Homestead after sacrificing and working 110%. The "don't spend more than you make" is lost on so many people and glad you focused on that! I was told similar from family "it's not what you make, but how much you keep"! People always think hard workers got it handed to them. I started watching your channel since I was always into the overlanding, Homesteading, and prepping my whole life. You're young and on a great path! Keep it up!
As Mike would ALWAYS say in his intros. “I hope you’ve been well”.
Idgaf where the money came from. You’re a genuine guy that works hard. You save people money. You share your life experience.
I haven’t watched in a long time because I’m busy with life, but I hope you’ve been well.
🙏🏽
Haters gonna hate. Keep doing what your doing and bless those kids God gave you.
Lol haters are to late to the game Mike passed them ip years ago
Been subbed between 5 to 10 years and I have gotten so many cool tips and tricks from your channel and you are one of the major RUclipsrs I’ve looked up to over the years.
I always knew that with your work ethic and hustle you earned and deserve everything you’ve created for yourself. Great work brother truly inspiring. Take care and enjoy the rest and your time with the family. 😎👍
Mike, been watching your videos for years, never crossed my mind, your finances. To me, it's always been about your character, easy manner, and your laid-back style of sharing your weekly projects, lifestyle and your growing family obligations. Filming and editing are hard work. Appreciate you man. Rock on from Michigan!
One of the best honest videos I have seen from a RUclipsr. Honest and down to earth guy that just wants to spread knowledge and positive vibes. Keep up the good work! God bless you and your family.🤝🙏🏻
I really appreciate this video and the context. I am one of those who was starting to think that you were becoming a little unrelatable, honestly. I unfairly jumped to conclusions and thought you were just showing off a bunch of your stuff and you seem to always have new things that were really cool that quite frankly I envy. This video has put a lot of that into perspective, and I very much appreciate that you have worked hard for what you have. That hasn’t necessarily come through in previous videos, so this really solidifies it. Keep up the good work, and I apologize for being judgy, even though you wouldn’t have even known it. 🎉
Go watch his older range videos and pocket dumps
Vertx was a huge win for mike his milestones are amazing
I’m 37 and still feel like I’ve wasted a lot of my life not working as hard as I could have. Appreciate you putting this out there. It’s inspiration for me to get engaged and want to build.
There is still time literally you can change your life in one day if you apply yourself
I have faith in you
I'm 29 and feel the same way. But, despite that feeling, I know I'm still doing the best I can. And I'm doing well. Hope the same goes for you. Keep at it, homie.
You and me both brotha and I’m 40
You’re not alone and I’m in a very similar situation. A wise old man told me recently there’s no better time to start than today.
@@jeramieschmidt4911 there are 1,440 minutes in a day we sleep for 5 to 8 hours of it
We can’t get a minute back so this is how you start your plan
480 minutes = 8 hr sleep
480 minutes = 8 hr work day
480 minutes = 8 hr
your time with family or friends
Now you can control your life better and make it worth it .
Example
Video games is waist of life .
Drugs waist of life
Social media debatable
Getting angry
Tv
Etc
Hope this helps its a challenge but now you may see the light of day
Each day is beautiful
Lets go !
I have never left a comment but I have definitely wondered how you afford the dream life before and I’m stoked to get some insight into your journey. Much love
I got divorced when I was about your age and it set me back. However, I sold my house a few years later snd invested in a fixer upper. Ended up buying more acreage behind and again next door. Now I’m 54 and have 20 acres, nice house, nice big garages, snd lots of toys. People hate on me too and think we’re rich but people who know me know how hard I have worked and what challenges I’ve had. Love your channel, keep up the good work and never look back brother. Thank your Dad for his service as well!!!
Well done Mike it's been great watching your journey. Fatherhood is the most rewarding roller-coaster. Keep up the great work
Not sure it’s anyone’s business. I just enjoy the info you provide.
Oh 100%
Honestly Mike, thanks for putting this out there. Gives me hope that with enough hard work, I can provide better for my family.
From $7k to $45k that's the minimum range of profit return every week I think it's not a bad one for me , now i have enough to pay bills and take care of my family.
Could you please explain how beginners like me can start making this much.
Last week I tried trading on my own and ended up losing $4k
I have Evelyn Infurna to Thank
she is a licensed broker here in the state.
YES, That is exactly her name and also many people speaks highly about her . she is an expert and am just starting with her.
I carry an LLOD holster as my EDC as a fed. I’ve watched lots of your videos, mostly for entertainment. You always come off as genuine. Very generous and willing to share more of yourself publicly than you need to. Like it or not, you are a role model for a lot of young men. Keep going.
Thanks Mike,
I have been watching from close to the beginning and remember some of the videos you mentioned. Thanks for sharing your journey. I really enjoy all the content. My wife and I have started 3 businesses in the last 10 years (in the pastry world). You are so right it’s hard work sacrifice and dedication.
Please keep doing what you are doing.
OG watcher here. I listened to this at the gym. Enjoy the dad life. It’s more fun than making money.
I’m a rover guy, not a Toyota guy but I still watch the videos!
Appreciate you sharing your story, brother. Been following you for a while. Love the channel. I definitely can relate to you, as I recently retired of the military from active duty. I joined when I was 17. Earned my college degree‘s, paid for all my vehicles, owner of a home, and have numerous experience from the military. I’m still figure out when I wanna do it this next chapter of my life. Have a great day. God bless you.
Bought my first LLOD holster in 2016. You really do make the best holsters. I won’t use any others. Got a whole pile in my closet that never get used to prove it.
Those that have watched for years know you built everything you have through hard work. It’s awesome seeing you have so much hard earned success living the life we are all working toward. People hate seeing others succeed because it’s convicting to them. You make such relaxing content, I work for an anti s trafficking non profit and every time you drop a video it’s a nice mental escape seeing whatever cool thing you’re into. Inspired me to buy a camper and take a year long roadtrip next year! Keep it up man, God bless!
Mike,
Thanks for your time, information and honesty. You’re an inspiration to a lot of dudes that just want to do better for them selves and their families. Keep on your path and keep growing.
Your affiliation with uptop has been great to see, and their products and path are exciting to watch.
God bless
I've been following your channel and journey for a few years now, and if you dont hear or see it enough, you inspire and motivate younger guys like me to enjoy the simple side of life but also being prepared for anything. Watching your videos was for entertainment at first but became a channel to learn some good knowledge from. You are blessed, sir! And we are here to support you.
Dude, I've been following you since before your first RTT video blew up. Your ascent was good to watch, and it was obvious you were working hard, and making good decisions. Don't let the haters get to you. Jealousy is ugly, and creates ugly behavior.
Mike, I have been following your channel for a long time. Great seeing your personal and professional growth is great man! Toast to hard work and staying humble!
Very cool background and upbringing Sir. Appreciate the details and enjoy the success! You’re one of the few that are still making videos that are worth watching.
Well deserved Mike. You’re inspiring and I think we all can appreciate your hard work and effort.
39 here too! 1985 was a good year! It’s just a number. I’m an entrepreneur too and it can be daunting at times. I worked in corporate America til 2018. working a job where I can go in and leave and only focus on my one job sounds enticing sometimes , but I LOVE LOVE the freedom that being a business owner provides me. I can do whatever the heck I want to do whenever I want to and I don’t have to ask permission. That’s my favorite part of entrepreneurship. I too custom built my house and gc’ed the project in 2021-2022. It was a full time job!!! I was on site every single day for the 9 months we built it.
Considering how you owe us absolutely no explanation of your financial situation, this was a great and informative video for young men to watch. I’ve been watching your stuff for years and have always appreciated your content. Keep it up man!
I’ve been a fan of your videos since the OG days. Regardless of the algorithm or topic of the video, I like your storytelling. Tangents that aren’t too long, you don’t say “umm” that often. It’s always a chill time seeing what Mike is up to. Plus your backdrops are always 👌🏼
Always loved your content, when you mentioned you're Korean even more happy and proud to see a Korean/American break into the overland/off-road industry! Looking forward to more of your content as always!
Great story man……..it really doesn’t matter where the money comes from. We appreciate your content and the things you share!
Much respect for you and all your hard work Mike. I always enjoy the videos you upload. It's definitely an inspirational video to me.
Mike,
Thank you for sharing such personal information. You have been a source of strength and inspiration for several years. Anyone with borderline intelligence can recognize how hard you work, it is very transparent. I will watch you after a 16-20 hour day, and see the same tiredness in your eyes and fell like i am not alone. I am happy for your success and you deserve every minute of it! Anyone else who talks poop about the fact it was handed to you hasn't worked very hard, hence they cant recognize hard work. Anyways, your awesome, and help so many people like me. I feel like i have a best friend to motivate me. Hard work, responsible decisions, mistakes made, and family man, your the poster hero for me. Hope you enjoy the holidays and get some good rest. Love ya brother, thank you.
Hey Mark, I really appreciate the heartfelt message, thank you for taking the time. Hope you have a great Christmas, and keep crushing it!
Good for you man!!! I’ve been following you for years. I have your holster. I love it carry it every day. It’s my EDC go to and listening to this video is very inspiring and similar to my story. Congratulations on your family and your journey moving forward. Cheers buddy.
Loved the video Mike. So much good advice in this video.ive been watching you from day one. Thank you for the time you put into helping other people with this content.
Mike, this is great. Sucks that people have to be jealous and make foolish comments. I'm 7-8 years chronologically ahead of you, but waaay behind financially. My 13-year-old has an "assignment" to watch this and give me 5 take-a-ways that he learned.
That is super smart
The tax-free exclusion rule for real estate is a gamechanger that more people need to know about. For a single person, if it is your primary residence for 2 years, you can sell and take up to $250,000 of the gain with no tax... if you are married, you and your spouse can take up to $500,000 in the appreciation without tax.
I appreciate you making this video Mike. I know it’s a bit awkward to talk finances on here, but it’s really interesting to hear your story.
i'm commenting before I watch. I'm excited about this! i've always wondered what your story was. cheers!
I’ve been watching your channel for years, and I’ve always enjoyed the content. I don’t feel like you owe anyone an explanation of how you’ve gotten to where you are. Short answer, working your ass off!!! Thanks for the awesome content sir! You taught me a lot about concealed carrying when I first got my permit.
Hey Mike. Been following you since Covid. It was you that motivated me to buy my tacoma and get into off road. your journey is inspirational and I cant thank you enough for this video. It was super informative and helpful. Thank you.
I think I discovered your channel on the 3rd house in the driveway videos and have been following since then. I've noticed you have some cool toys and I love it. Enjoy your life the way you want I'm always happy to see people achieve good things in life that they work hard for it is motivating. Great video as always and wish you the best👍🏼
Thank you for this video. You're awesome, and I'm so glad you took the time to make this and explain that the choices you've made have compounded into your current success.
I've been following you for a long time. Congrats on your success! Enjoy it and enjoy your family.
You’re killing it brother! Keep doing you!
LMAO The first 15 sec intro... take my money!!! The final message is hard work and sound decisions pay off! Keep at it!!!
Appreciate you Mike, thanks for the openness, even though you didn’t have to, I’ve enjoyed your content for countless years, met you in person at a couple of expos, you’re definitely a stand up guy, keep it up and spend some quality time with your family!
Glad to hear things are going well, you're doing a great job, and I'm glad to see that your values line up with family. Proud of you!
Thank you for sharing your story, I hope you spend as much time as needed with your family and see those kids grow up. The influence us fathers have on them is immense.
I've been waiting for this video for a while , Nice to hear the story of how it all became what it is now . I used to have nice big house , new truck new camper , Then divorce happened last year , lost a big chunk of everything I've worked hard for over the past 15 years . I'm 38 now , basically starting over . Its tough man . Your story gives me hope that If I keep my head up , work hard and make smart financial decisions I can hopefully bounce back .
Thanks for sharing this bro. I’ve been tapping into your content for the past few years and have always had some takeaways from your work and for that I thank you again. Always felt you’re super real and legit. Interesting how comments can impact our lives in some way or another. Keep up the great work and we’re sending loads of love to you and yours✊🏽
Thanks Mike! Motivation for a first time homeowner driving a clapped out 200k mile Tacoma! God bless you and your family!
Appreciate this video! Been a fan for a long time and was aware of the timeline more or less, but it’s nice to hear you lay it all out. Keep it up my friend 👊🏻
Haters gonna hate.. you’re the man Mike! True role model for any go getter out there! Much respect brother!
Man its been cool seeing you ever the years grow! And as someone who owns one of your holsters i can vouch they are very well made! I’ll probably buy another one soon actually!
I think you’re down to earth, both before and now. I met the 3 of you (before the babies) a couple of years ago and y’all were humble and kind. Great video!
Hey Mike, I have been with you from the very early years. I have one of your very first appendix rigs and I will never part with it! By far my favorite holster. Its been so cool to watch you grow and stay the same dude you were from those early days. This video is super cool of you to do because it is a look into your personal life and you are putting it out there for the world to see. Stay Rad Mike! Always a fan!
I have mad respect for you. Thank you for sharing, I know you don’t have to, and you did. It’s actually very inspirational. Good for you. Congrats on the new house, marriage and baby
Been following since way back, before the sponsors, when it was just shooting in the mountains. Love it Mike, you’re an inspiration!
Mike, I remember you talking about doing web development years ago at the old house. I’ve been following you for years and got into overlanding watching your videos after searching for Vertx pants. It’s cool to hear your life story. I have admired what you do and really look up to you. I’m also 37, so I can relate to the Middle ages haha. You rock man, you’re a really smart guy and very admirable. Thanks for putting it out there.
Love the transparency! One video I'd love to see is a Dad Gear/EDC video, or maybe add it to the xmas video.
Great video dude. I’m always intrigued on how people make their living. I’m sure this will help others. 🙌
Great Vid... Appreciate you!!! Keep it moving forward. Love your attitude toward "constructive comments". Don't loose that. Peace.
I've followed your journey for close to 9 or 10 years (since I was in high school). Biggest influence for me to buy a tacoma and a massive influence on my hobbies. Love watching you grow and really look forward to your continued success!
Worked your butt off and saved money. Don’t worry about what idiots think of you. 👍 can’t wait to see you in another 10 years!
Love your channel. Always great content! Congrats on your life progress. As with most success it seems your key ingredient has been hard work. Keep it up!
Great stuff man. Congratulations on managing the ups and downs of life. Keep it coming.
What a gracious and generous response to those questions Mike. Those of us who remember the young and poor version of you know you have earned what you have. You’re an excellent example to young men. Congratulations on your growing family and the wisdom to devote time to them. GOD Bless Mike!
Thanks for sharing. It's inspiring to listening to you. Being honest on Yt is probably the hardest thing to do. LFG! YOTA GANG ALL DAY
I'm one of your "old followers", I watched your trajectory and I was always curious about your capacity to work so hard. Being a DIYer myself, I realize how hard is to have side projects on top of your full time job. I rigged up my new '16 Tacoma pretty much on your advise and recommendations. I still have it, I love it. I bet there are many people like me that have gotten absolute value from your content and they are grateful for that. You are an example of doing well by doing good mentality.
Was here from the beginning. I remember the beginning and have seen the growth. Doing great brother!
it sounds like hard work. Keep going and support your family my friend!
Your holster was the first one I bought. I wish I didn’t, because every other holster I buy now doesn’t compare to yours! Best holster ever! You should definitely expand your holster selection, starting with Sig Sauer.
Hard work pays off! More power to ya!
Love this story of how it all came to be, keep working hard my Asian brother. Be proud of your legacy .
Mike; This is the most important time. Family first. Always enjoyed your channel.
Cheers to your path and hard work. And cheers to fellow Chico State alumni. Love your channel and the information you put out.
Hey Mike thx for sharing your personal business, I’m sure it will help a lot of people! And don’t be too hard on yourself, you are doing pretty good for being 39!
If I could give you any advice would be to grow your holster company, maybe make more cool gear, im sure a lot of us would buy some! Stay blessed!
Amazing video bro, keep up the hard work and enjoying what life has to offer. I had the opportunity to meet you at our colorado expo and you took the time to snap a photo with me and my 4 year old. Much respect
Fantastic, and practical content! I’m sure this video will help a lot of young men and women out - if they were listening, and are motivated. God bless you, and your family. Colorado is absolutely beautiful, I miss it a lot.
Actually, a very inspiring story about hard honest and clever work and frugal spending. Thank you!
Just found your channel today, not sure why it was never recommended till now but I love it, man. Awesome stuff.
Yo Mike - as a mortgage pro, I just wanna say thank you for touching on the life-changing benefits that come with homeownership. Many people don’t see how it can truly alter your life, financially, over 5-8+ years. There’s no other vehicle (other than daddy’s money lol) to get you ahead in life. Anyway, much love brother 🤝🏼 God bless you and the fam 🙏🏼
This is a great video, thanks for sharing!
I agree, living on less than you make, leveraging compound interest, and having multiple streams of income is 🔑
Fruits of your labor and making good choices will get what you want to do "treat yoself" most people that have w2 jobs make the wrong choices and don't work hard. Keeping a reserve is very smart. Very inspiring. My son is the one who directed me to your channel a few years back. Very inspiring. Thanks for sharing
Thank you for this advice. Everyone needs to hear this
You do you bro, keep getting after it
Thanks for inspiring. It just shows it is possible. You’re living the dream.
You are very driven and passionate about the things you pursue . On top of that you seem to have a very positive attitude . I love hearing success stories from a hard worker like yourself. May God continue to bless you and your family. Let the noise from haters fade away. I’m pretty sure you don’t let it get to ya anyway . Keep it up! Especially Toyota videos 😂
Awesome video, and thank you for some advice! But you don’t owe anyone an explanation man! You’ve worked hard and deserve all of it!
Love this video. Been watching you for years man and stoked that you're focusing on the family/homestead aspect. You'll never have babies again, they grow up!! I chose to turn down "big boy money" jobs to focus on what matters. It's all a matter of perspective. Sure I wish I made more money, but there are aspects of your life those who are "rich" will never have. Everything requires work, it's up to you to decide what's worth working for. In my eyes, you are rich in the most well-rounded way. Keep fighting the good fight brother and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Until the next vid, "hope you're doing well." haha
Very cool, interesting story and inspiring. Thanks for sharing 👍
Useful. I remember wondering what you did for money about the time you started selling holsters. I think you mentioned in passing that you had just recently "built and sold another website." That actually helped nudge me into getting a career in IT in a very round-about way.
Dude, thank you for the honesty! I’m sorry if you’ve ever felt like you need to justify yourself because of comments, but I appreciate how real you are and your transparency and honestly advice! It’s the only sure way to grow wealth, live on less than you make 💪 keep it up! We appreciate you!
Congratulations on the 2nd baby bro keep grinding love the content and the drive to better ur family