MAKE A DONATION: rebrand.ly/5sjl536 GRAB A SHIRT: rebrand.ly/d52ph5d SUPPORT THE SHOW: rebrand.ly/txql2ur PLANS FOR ALL PROJECTS: www.spencleydesignco.com/store
I had this happen to me with Amazon. I didn't get anywhere until I had emailed Bezos and probably 8 of his senior leadership team. It was at that point that my account was restored. You'll want to google to find out all of their email addresses and start the communication. Let me know how it goes!
Contact the Institute for Justice. Say you want to sue Instagram. They take cases pro-bono and they loooove taking on big outfits that shaft the "little guy". I wonder if someone hacked your account, posted something nasty, then reported your account. People are going to have to sue Instagram over and over to force them to reveal why they suspend accounts.
These companies are ruthless and their rules are so nebulus and subjective that you are always at risk. I would start a mail campaign (NOT email) to all of their C suite team. I did this once and it was reasonably effective. Don't give up!
Community. Spence, I am a 72 year old retired 6th grade teacher of 32 years. I love woodworking like you and I was never able to quit my day job of teaching. I retired at 55. Through hard work with absolutely ZERO formal training, I created Smith's Cabinetry and Fine Furniture. Still plugging away, I built my 17th kitchen last summer. The money went to new steel on my pole barn. Do not give up your dream but trust no one or no body or no entity other than yourself. I am very new to utube. Keep fighting the good fight. Tim.
Making the jump to go out on your own is really scary. I quit a good corporate job right after my wife had my daughter and 4 months prior I just bought a house and a new car with 20 animals to feed. It was rough at first but my name is starting to get out there and I love the way it's going.
@@repentofidols one Christian to another, this isn’t sharing the Gospel of Jesus with anyone. Yelling repent doesn’t tell anyone about Jesus. Change your approach, brother.
Community: One thing you can do when things like this happen is get your followers to post about it on Instagram's twitter feed. When lots of people start drawing negative attention to their feed they normally deal with the issue and review it properly. Also reach out to other larger channels to publicise the problem and get their followers to pile on too. I have seen this work multiple times now.
Community. Thanks for sharing your experience. I had a similarly tragic story... When I retired from the military, I thought I'd become a small-time videographer in my city because it was something that I loved doing. Just as I was starting up, though, my state stopped offering tax incentives to major production companies to come to our state to produce movies and TV. Within just a couple of months, 90% of the production businesses in our state had shut down or moved elsewhere. That left hundreds of film and video professionals looking for work and instantly competing with me. Soon, I had to take a job in admin at a big company and become an unhappy cog in a big machine (with many other unhappy cogs). Now, I'm retired from that, too. Today, I spend my time and money in my garage workshop making stuff out of wood, and I'm happy as a clam!
Community: I came across this video and it's the first time I've been exposed to your channel. Your video resonated with me because I've been in your shoes before. I've been a freelance illustrator for nearly 35 years and it's easy to wind up with most of your business income coming from a single source. There's a lot of reasons for this. One might be you have one really good client who loves working with you, they send you all the work you can handle, and they pay very well. So you start focusing your time on them, you back off on marketing yourself, and you turn down work from other clients so you can keep main client happy. Then a pandemic happens, or your client leaves the company they're working for and their replacement want to work with someone different than you. I can remember losing 80% of my business right after 9-11. But here's something that you have to remember-- you're working for yourself. You can pivot, make changes, learn from your mistakes and no one is standing in your way. When I worked at a full-time job, a single person held my livelihood in their hands. I could get fired or laid off and I'd have to either find another job or start from scratch. That's much worse than facing a temporary downturn in your business.
That is an overt strategy employed by companies with small producers. Once they become your lifeline, by monopolising your time and you've abandoned your other clients, they begin to renegotiate the contract to pay you less. Now you're stuck needing to keep them happy and making less money, but your time is taken up so you can't pursue others.
I'm really sorry to hear what instagram did to you and I hope you can/have recovered. Here's the lesson *for us all* - we cannot rely on faceless multinational companies to platform us. We have to expect that one day that platform will be taken away, or stop paying like it used to, or be bought up and change entirely. These companies are not our friends, we are literally their products.
@@StCreedonly if you can afford a lawyer to go up against a company like Instagram filing suit for wrongful termination of your account, you might get anywhere. But of course the damage has already been done. And filling for damages would be challenging, i bet.
Community: If I was in this situation, I'm not sure I would have opened a new account with Instagram. It's hilarious that they would delete your other account, and then allow you to open a new one. Good on you for taking the high road. Love the channel!
Community. Really sorry that happened to you, and hope it gets resolved. This was the first video of yours that I stumbled on, but I look forward to checking out your woodworking content. Your ability to turn this into a positive message and try to help others avoid similar pitfalls is inspiring. I wish you all the best!
This kind of thing happens _way too often._ Stories of RUclips dropping people and not giving them a true chance to challenge their decision. Perhaps it is time for a guild, or similar, to form for the content creators' benefit. Perhaps the guild could provide a legal fund. I'd bet a lawyer could get a response from these platforms and and actually help the content creators to fight back.
@@JV-pu8kx I've heard this on almost every platform. RUclips, Twitch, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Etsy, they just arbitrarily decide you've broke one of their rules and don't even legally have to have any kind of real appeal process or even have to tell you what rule you broke. Some lady had thousands of ebooks from Amazon bought and they just decided one day she broke their terms of service and canceled her account, without refunding her a dime.
Community. What Instagram did to you is outrageous, Eric, especially in light of all of the nasty and cruel content that never seems to get the axe. I hope you can eventually get your account - and your sponsors - back. Thanks for doing what you do.
Meta, Formerly facebook, is trash. Pure and utter trash. I'm a developer and I literally told their recruiters to stuff it and never talk to me. I routeinely remind people I know, that work there, that they're working for the worst company on the planet.
@@sjb3460 Not to mention they won't remove the bad retailers that rip people off. Amazon has gotten to big and most likely controlled by China anymore.
Since this may happen again, here's my tip: get a lawyer to write them a nasty letter about their claim of human exploitation, since that is defamation. Letters sent to legal departments, especially certified letters by lawyers, have a tendency to get a response from a human.
Yeah, I don't see how defamation would apply here. But I would expect a claim for financial damages should be valid. No doubt, Instagram has something in their Terms of Service that attempts to preclude a lawsuit, but contracts like that can be invalidated, on the basis that they are imposed unfairly (since there is no real negotiation, nor any opportunity for the other party to modify the contract before agreeing). Between the loss of sponsorship and the revenue that brings, along with the ad-sharing revenue, and of course any harm caused by the loss of the synergy between platforms (no Instagram probably means fewer RUclips views), I would expect there to be a claim worth pursuing here.
Community: I am a business owner that has spent the last 20 years starting and growing my business. In 2020 I watched the Pandemic turn half the world into useful idiots for ideologically constipated causes. Like you I reluctantly took a woodworking class in High school, and really took to it, so when we were all trapped in our homes I decided to build a shop, and begin building cabinets and remodeling our home, and furniture that my wife had been begging to buy for years. I quickly realized that many of our friends and neighbors were highly impressed and began putting in orders. It’s no get rich plan, but I have paid for my shop and tools now, and continue to learn from and be inspired but people like yourself that love to learn and are passionate about creating. More power to you and I wish you all the success you deserve.
Community. I started woodworking in my early 60's and LOVE it. Videos from people like you mean a lot to me and serve as encouragement and learning tips. Many creators share the good with the bad. Often you learn more from the "bad". Hang in there and we'll keep watching.
This video was showing up on my recommended list for over a month now, and I'm so glad I finally clicked on it. So sorry this happened to you. It's not the first story like this that I've heard either and it's extremely disappointing that these companies don't consider the effects these decisions have on ppl's livelihoods. These stories confirm my thoughts that I should never try to do YT full time because it can all get taken away from you in a second due to an algorithm's error. I wish you the best going forward
Community: First time I have even heard about you and I am very impressed how you have dealt with your situation. This is something that lots of people have had to deal with and you just provided valuable information on how to pick yourself up, dust yourself off and start again. Good luck to you and I hope that things come back 10 fold for you!
Community. I have to hand it to you. You took an unfortunate situation and you didn't show bitterness, anger, etc. You've used this as a learning experience and just as important you may have reached out to others and helped them by pointing out to have other streams of income and not all your eggs in one basket. This is the first time I've seen one of your videos and look forward to watching more. I wish you the best success.
Community: I lament the loss of shop classes in school. They were, by far, my favorite and most useful classes. I’ve been a problem solving woodworker for decades. It’s a shame that kids won’t find a hands-on class that ignite a lifelong spark. I also fell for the BS that the trades weren’t as valuable as some corporate job requiring a 4 year degree. Thank you for sharing this very modern misfortune. It was enlightening.
Thanks for sharing your story. Fortunately my high school was deeply immersed in the vocational education. Good thing because I struggled through middle school and never understood math, that was until I was introduced to vocational math. Now it really wasn’t any different but seeing math used in this manner I got it, trigonometry, physics made sense. Up graduation I went to work in one of the many mines and mills that surround out county and became an apprentice. Having 3 years of welding, 2 years of machinists training, 2 years of electrical work 2 years of carpentry , 2 years of drafting and 1 years in automotive education I breezed through a 4 year mechanical apprenticeship in 3, and 2 years for the electrical apprenticeship. I made a great living and fully retired at 62. I’m so thankful that my school district saw the needs of local industry and prepared those of us not heading off to college to waste our parents money.
Community. I have recently retired, and I am taking on some unambitious woodworking projects with a few power tools. I totally sucked at the shop classes when I was in junior high, and my shop teacher told me that I should never touch a power tool ever again. I love that you are putting your work and hints out in front of the internet, which can be kind or cruel, sometimes at the same time. And videos like yours are a huge help. Sorry you got cancelled. I cancelled my Meta account a few years back when they started canceling truth as "misinformation". RUclips is not a free platform either. If you are making money on RUclips, good for you. But be aware that you could be cut off from posting and monetizing RUclips at any time.
Spence... I am a 58 year old rancher that has a woodworking hobby. I have zero social media presence, however several people tell me I should sell my stuff online like Etsy. I too wonder what my future looks like if I decide to turn my hobby into a business. I make everything from pens on the lathe, to, one of a kind cutting boards. I have even added a 100 watt CO2 industrial laser to my repertoire. All that being said... I feel you. I can't imagine having a revenue stream ripped out from under me like a cheap rug. It is one reason I haven't jumped into the social media waters. Don't get me wrong... social media is a great tool for businesses. However, a chainsaw is a great tool too, but it can leave you a bloody mess if something goes wrong. Keep your chin up and keep moving forward. Your videos are great content and fun to watch.
Community… This is such an awful situation! Facebook is truly evil, and I keep hearing stories that just reinforce that. Best of luck, and keep up the amazing work!
Community! Thanks for having a tough conversation. A lot of content creators always try to put on the appearance that everything is perfect. It’s nice to be able to hear about some of the difficulties that can come with working this type of a business. Good luck with the rebuild!
Sounds like a hater made a false report and they just moved ahead to get you out. Community. Just seeing if you really read all the comments. Blessings on the recovery.
Community- It's called putting all eggs in one basket. As a small business owner, I avoid all social media. One on one and word of mouth is the best advertising. Always give customer more than they expect.
Community was a really great show. Joel might have been able to help in this situation. That's truly a terrible situation to be in, but take solace that it happened relatively early on, and not after you went full time. You got this!
Community. I’m just seeing this today and I feel like you’re talking directly to me. I do cell tower work and my company has expanded. It’s total corporate bs now. I’m a former carpenter, and have a garage full of tools. Screw making other people money while I try and keep my lips above water. This was inspirational, thanks.
Community: This is my first time seeing your YT channel. Point taken, and amplified, totally agree. My experience is almost the inverse of yours. As a Degreed Mechanical Engineer for nearly 40 years, it was my DAY jobs that kept folding, companies going under within months of my joining them. I have burned through 20 companies since 1985. What sustained me was my working as a Home Improvement contractor, and Historic Woodworking Restoration specialist, both started as a hobbies that I loved! After that last company blew out (didn't even get severance or unemployment!), I launched my own LLC's. And now I am official in both worlds, each a backup for the other. Stay strong, stay flexible! I wish you great success!
Community: Feel for you man, we had one of our startup businesses killed by a platform pulling the plug, and it hurt. No rhyme or reason at all, and no response from them, no matter how hard we tried to communicate. Had to give up and start again with them. Certainly makes you appreciate that relying on one source is a scary prospect. Good luck, it's tough to get the motivation to go again when this happens.
Boy, can i relate. i am a one man construction co that mainly does commercial remodels & build-outs I had one main customer that i developed over the last 15 years. His company fed me over 90% of my income both directly & indirectly. then the pandemic hit & everyone started working from home & stopped the need for commercial remodels. Now strike 2 is my customer is stepping back from his business & turning it over to his son who doesn't appear to be interested in continuing the business relationship. long & the short of it is I'm struggling to develop new customers ( I haven't been successful with a bid this year- in fact ,i haven't worked this year) and will be bankrupt in one or two months. Your advice really hits home with me; i wish I had developed other customers sooner.
Community, interesting that this could happen when so many actually do something wrong and don't get kicked off. I have a small space like you, but am retired so I enjoy seeing how you work things through. Good luck
I had a very similar experience with high school and trade school, except I wanted to do automotive repair. Engineering college later and now I'm into woodworking (and still work on cars for fun) but always believed the stigma against tradesman/ skilled labor was the worst.
I’m going to community college right now for mechanical engineering but I feel the same way. I just want something to fall back on in case that is my plan at least. But I’ve been getting into some wood working lately and bought tools for it.
Community. As a high school shop teacher I’ve learned lots from your videos that I’ve passed on to my students. Thank you for sharing your story about tour career journey. I will remember it when encouraging my students to follow their dreams for the futures they want. Keep doing what you love! Good luck bro.
Community is everything and your fans will definitely be here to support you! Keep your head up....and thanks for the reminder about the harshness of life sometimes!
Community. Hey Spencley, keep fighting the good fight brother. I'm really impressed that you started building while renting at an apartment, and that you've made that work. I have made some basic furniture out of my dad's garage and after that I would not have thought it possible to do what you have done. I watched your video about helpful tools you would've bought earlier and thought that was insightful and good too!
Community. I can relate to your story in terms of getting into woodworking in school. 100% agree there needs to be more support for youth if they want to get into trades instead of going the "traditional route" of college. I think it had a stigma and still does. Hopefully people and channels like yours help young people see what's possible. Thanks for creating such great content!
Thank you Spenceley for your channel and the education you provide to aspiring Woodworker‘s. I have been building my woodworking shop and business for the last two years and hope to have my break out the spring doing craft and Streetfair circuits. @many7351, I totally agree. Masters in chemistry and in teaching. Love my workbench and reduced homework. As a child I was always happiest at my father‘s wood bench with a hammer or saw. I went to private school and they did not have a shop class. Had my experience early on been different, I would have immediately gone into the trades and become a carpenter or furniture maker or whatever. The most important lesson anyone can take from this, follow your dreams! Pursue your passion and chase your happiness! ☺️
I'm a woman and always loved building, making things that I needed. I went to college, and was drawn to the construction - trades, as well as the other things that you had to take to get a degree in the main college. But my interests are always so varied - I took farming, ag classes too, to the point that I just stopped with the other classes and took construction, drafting, cad, etc. Now I'm 65 and my sons are grown - one in business- one in computer tech - and one in Electrical trades. The point is - Plumbing, Electrical would have been great if I actually got into construction. I Love the Trades, they are so VERY important. I have built so many things for my home - my hubby was a Family Practice Dr and couldn't screw in a screw. We made playgrounds, tables, cabinets, drawers for my kitchen, a covered patio, then enclosed part of the patio for a workshop with all the tools we all needed. Next is enclosing the patio thats left for family to sit in comfort with out mosquitos. All the boys have tools here - and we constantly are building. Go with your heart. I never did get that degree. I just build my own houses, sheds, cabinets, book cases, tv stands, you name it. And I'm happy.
@@ppastrana1672 / That's awesome. I struggled for 11 years in and out of college before I finally got a degree and teaching credential. I had industrial arts in junior high, and was good at it. Built a folding kayak in 8th grade. I took 3+ years of wood shop in high school. I dropped out of college, got into a house-building program... learned what I needed in a few months, and went to Colorado and got a job on a framing crew. $5.00/hour. It took a few more years before I got my ass back in school to finish my degree, and I was always able to make money as a carpenter. Now I sub teach part time, and work on and in my shop, where I'm finally able to put things "away", instead of in my truck. If I had it to do again I would have focused more on woodworking/contracting, and photography, which is another passion. Seriously, learning to do what you want to do, instead of what you should do is key in this life.
Community. Thank you for continuing to do what you do. I didn’t start following you until after that happened. I appreciate the time you put in to your followers and personal responses.
Community! Glad you are still posting, I love your videos. I was told I couldn’t go into woodworking as a teen after high school as it was for boys not girls. I have recently jumped in in my 40’s and I love it. Keep teaching me!
Community: I'm 64 years old and got laid off 3 weeks before Christmas. I really can connect with your past experiences. I am at a point where I'm wondering what is next..... Keep your chin up you'll make it..... I've been where you are many times
Community: Completely understand how you felt in high school. It seemed like everybody thought you were a failure if you went into any trade. I did go to college, but wish I hadn’t. Good luck building up again
I actually knew more than the shop instructor did as I would hang at at the company carpentry shed in the AM waiting for the buss to show up. He was also the football coach I never made more than a "C' in that class as I would never sign up for the team..
Community: I know I'm 6 months late on this, but damn if you didn't get shafted on that! Your videos have, in the last two weeks, inspired me to dust off my tools and get back to doing some projects that have been bouncing around in my head for 8-10 years. Good luck to you and hope you reach the dream of quitting the 9-5, rat race, BS.
Community! I was a small business owner for years and went through something similar. My heart literally bleeds for you. I don't do Instagram nor Facebook at all so I don't know if the issue has been resolved but I wish you and your family all the best now and in the future! Good luck!
Community: I don't know you but I can imagine the feeling of injustice you're through; you made a long way since your first table and your talent isn't lost; I hope you'll be able to quickly make sponsors back and sales go on!
Just stumbled across your woodworking videos. After growing up in a woodworking shop (Grandfather, Father and Uncles), it's good to see someone making a goal of woodworking as their primary source of income. Btw.....nicely edited videos. Also, a great message, no matter what you do in life.
Community. Thanks for spreading awareness about the IG issue. Also really enjoyed the discussion about career choices and how the trades are often considered as inferior paths. It's super important for kids to know that many great opportunities are available and how to make the right decision, whether it's college, trades, military or whatever else. Good luck and thanks for the content.
Community: I hope everything works out with the new IG account. You did a fantastic job turning something really difficult and frustrating into something positive. I’m also really enjoying your videos, and love that there’s someone else out there who doesn’t have all the formal schooling and training. I’m in the same boat and at the very beginning of my journey, just working out the kinks on my first video. It’s inspiring to see that it can become something bigger. Best of luck, and I look forward to watching you grow!
Community - I'm sorry that happened with IG. That's crazy! I found your channel just recently and really enjoy the videos I have seen. Well done. I have also recently started woodworking and look forward to watching more of your content. Hope all goes well for you. Keep up the great work 👍🏼
Community is everything. I'm really sorry for what you went through. I got rubbish grades in school and it took me years to learn that I have a passion for woodworking. And even now, I am struggling to build a business here in the UK. But I am happy that your dream in working for you thus far. Keep it up :)
Community: dude…that blows. I get it. 18 months ago I lost/left my 22 year corp. career. I am now enjoying my shop time, building and hanging with my kids. Just starting my journey sharing these projects I build on social, etc. I have no idea what I am doing, but hope to figure it all out. Diversification is key! Thanks for sharing your story!
Thanks for checking out the video, and thank YOU for sharing your story, Matt! I wish you the best of luck! I do offer coaching and consultations in growing a social media business if that's ever something you are interested in learning more about
Community is important, losing your IG account sucks. Hopefully you'll eventually get it back. There are lots of horror stories about small businesses that only used FB / IG or Etsy getting crushed through no fault of their own.
Community - My sympathy goes out to you as we had the same type of thing happen to us back in 2018 and we were well on our way to getting back on our feet when Covid hit, which set us back yet again. So keep up the good fight toward the goal.
Community: good video. I’ll check out the channel. Free advise. Go to CA’s Secretary of State website and find the registered agent for Instagram. Craft a well reasoned and concise letter explaining the situation and saying that if this situation isn’t corrected that you will be forced to take the appropriate legal action. Do some research and find at least one seemingly viable claim before sending the letter. Hire a process server to delivery this to the registered agent. Possibly your best bet to get someone to look at this situation. It would be even better if you could find an attorney to draft the letter for you. Best of luck.
Community! You have a strength of character, and a great attitude. I was once close to bankruptcy and it took time for me to fight and pay all my debts, two years in fact. So keep fighting and above all enjoy your woodworking.
Well I for one am trying to grow my woodworking business so I'd love to know those companies who bailed on you, with zero dialogue, so I(we) can steer clear of them. I'm truly sorry you had to go through this but I appreciate you bringing this to masses. Being in the financial sector for over 2 decades, diversification is critical to success. I wish you hadn't experienced this personally. Thank you again and keep up the fight. I hope you get reinstated to IG soon.
Community: Sorry to hear you had the setback. Love the resilience. Rooting for you. Enjoy your videos. I use the techniques you show in my own projects. Keep up the great work and contect.
After months of work, a viewer who works at Facebook reached out after watching this video and they helped rectify the issue. My account is now publicly live and back in working order!
@@SpencleyDesignCo so happy for you! I just had this happen on Facebook. They shut down my personal account because of something supposedly that was on a page that I hadn’t touched in 10 years. They don’t even show you what you are accused of! My dad just passed last year and all my conversations and pictures with him were on there and now gone. 😢 Any pointers you can give me are appreciated. Thanks for all you do! 👍
I just recently found you here on RUclips and I appreciate your struggle. It's only really been since August when you made this video, but I've been trying to build something akin to what you're doing. It seems there is no shortage of engineers here trying to start channels about making things. It's kind of a sad state of things that we all are looking for more freeing outlets when engineering was supposed to be a really cool career. Community.
Community is really what we all need to get back to. I just found your site a couple of weeks ago and am really enjoying it. I love your practical approach to figuring out what you really need and not what someone else tells you you need. Sorry to hear what Insta did to you.
Community. This video is the 1st of yours that I've watched. I can't help but feel inspired at your determination and energy - pushing ahead for over a year on the hope that someday, you'd be able to make a living doing something you truly enjoy. That's an inspiration to us all. I've dropped a Subscribe and I look forward to sharing your future ideas as part of this... "Community"!
My thoughts exactly. So unfortunate to work so hard and lose it all that fast ESPECIALLY when you’ve done nothing wrong but it happens. And we all need to be reminded of that from time to time. So glad he shared this experience and is keeping his head high.
After months of work, a viewer who works at Facebook reached out after watching this video and they helped rectify the issue. My account is now publicly live and back in working order!
Community: Great story. I've never seen this channel before and subbed :). I too took a shop class in middle school and high school and loved it. Like you said it was looked down upon as a career path. I started to get back into it about 5 yrs ago...(when I turned 40). I also brew beer and painting. I know to many hobbies. But, I enjoy them all and using my hands. I'm looking forward into watching you library of vids. I hope you recover soon from this.
For whatever reason, today is the first time that I came across your channel. At the risk of sounding melodramatic, I have to say that this video has got to be the most impactful that I remember watching! I was forced to do a career reboot late in life. Right now, all of my eggs are in one basket, and that has been a concern, but not enough to make the proper adjustments. After listening to your story, that is going to change this month. You can count on me being a subscriber and a fan. Thank you, sir.
Community. This is the first video of yours I've seen. Subscribed. My heart goes out to you for what Insta did to you. In a former business I advertised on FB and was hacked (I don't have proof, but I think there was good chance that it was FB fault). The blocked advertising. Their loss. (I might still be blocked to this day.) I totally get the "don't put all your eggs in one basket" program. It is so important. That is really sage advice.
Community - Holy crap, Eric. I can't even imagine the hell you've been going through since June. I really hope things turn around for you. You are correct about the multiple income streams. That's what I'm hoping to do for myself as well. Your situation is the entire reason behind the old saying of "don't put all your eggs in one basket". Good luck moving forward! - Joe Porter
Community Hang in there! I am so sorry this happened. It's horsecrap. I'm a lifelong woodworker. It's my life's passion. I watch your videos not to learn, but to watch someone with as much enthusiasm and passion as I have myself! Keep up the good work! PS- watching you sit on the tablesaw was making me cringe!!
community: I really appreciate the way that you have given a serious and practical piece of advice for your audience instead of turning an unfair and unfortunate even into another rant. the takeaway... don't put all your eggs into one basket (especially if you don't own the basket, but only the eggs.)
Community: I’m so sorry this happened to you. You’ve come such a long way and to have a massive hit like that had to feel devastating. I’m glad to see how positive you’ve stayed and dedicated to pursuing what you love! Keep it up!! You’re channel has always been one of my favorites!
Community: I can’t believe in this day and age a multimillion dollar company could be so negligent and incompetent. I hope everything has worked out for you Eric, I really appreciate the work you do
Well, how does it hurt them? It's only a problem for Instagram if it gives them a loss of income. Otherwise, this is actually the cheapest way to deal with anything: just don't respond. Saves a lot of money on humans.
COMMUNITY Just checked out your shop - very nice work... I got a few basics - for now... Maybe tmi, but I am 64 year old woman, wanted to do woodwording in junior high - unheard of at the time - my Dad freaked out and suffice it to say I took sewing... dont get me wrong, I love sewing, though I didn't at the time... met my husband 40 years ago and finally took that woodworking class, went to art school in furniture design (still eyeing your dining chair that is reminiscent - to me - to the classic Eames chair - very comfortable for all body types!) Anyway... raised kids, etc, and trying to get back to my 'interests' - soooo, very happy to find your videos and your plans... thanks for your generosity (I love freebies) - though I was bummed NOT to find your cement coasters 😊 All the best to you and yours! Thanks for your openness and educating all of us!
Community: I just found your channel today. I watch one of your videos and found this one. I have heard of this happening to several people with Instagram accounts. I am a curious George with a variety of interests. Your story of finding your passion in woodworking and building is great. Keep pursuing your dream. The setbacks are what make us stronger even when it seems to be quite a loss. Great advice about revenue diversification. You have a great setup, dream, and pursuit. Keep getting after it! Shalom(Peace)
Community- thanks for putting this video out. I knew something was up with your IG, but didn’t know what. What an absolute bummer to have them cancel you with zero chance to respond or defend yourself. Especially for what they accused you of!! Anyway, glad to hear you’re still moving forward because I always look forward to watching your content.
Community. This really hits home with me and my family; my employer for the last 6 years just closed the factory I worked in. I hope you and your family have a good Christmas and you recover from all this.
Community. Best of luck Eric. Always appreciate your honesty especially in tool reviews. I discovered you when looking for where the Delta table saw went & discovered your Rigid version. Just subscribed. Weekend Wood Warrior looking forward to full time woodworking when I finally retire.
Community...... You are not alone when it comes to "trades" being looked down upon. This for me was a reason I didn't pursue a career in working with my hands. Don't get me wrong, it was VERY wrong of school and peers to look so down upon such trades. My dad was a tradesman and worked hard physically for many many years. I attribute a lot of who I am today to my late father. Your engineer background is so something I wish I had done reflecting back. I recall from your letter that you sent me the experience you had with your college advisor, that again is another let down and I have been there with you on that. How can an advisor speak down like that because they made different choices in life!? As you say she was a great advisor, but was she really? I've had a "luck of the dice " experience with Ikea, our work desks are extremely well made and I've had mine for over 12 years and couldn't/wouldn't think otherwise, but YES most of it is craptastic. Your's and Zac's podcast is undeniably a super awesome podcast and endeavor and a new challenge. I am excited to see how you overcome this Insta-bullshit! You've always been so resourceful and shown to this community that diving into the deepend, regardless of what your peers said in high-school, college advisor or any other joe schmoe who feels the need to poo-poo on your dreams shame on them. I still, to this day, feel like the lucky one finding you. P.S you now have a few follower on Insta-bullshit 😁 event hough it's not my space but you will always drop a surprise reel and that brings a smile to my face. P.P.S your sign is missing its "E" in design... sorry it's the graphic designer in me still love all your content and we are here for you, keep your chin up as you always do.
Community. This video really hit home with me. Right now I'm a factory worker who works at a new facility that could in all reality go under tomorrow. While I don't think that will happen you never know and I've wanted to start something to call my own and this encourages me to try harder to make that happen.
Community, I'm really sorry this happened to you. I recently picked up the hobby of woodworking after my 9-to-5 and I too have learned everything I know from RUclips and Trial/Error. Not to get your hopes up, but I reached out to my contact at Meta to hopefully resolve this issue. No promises, but fingers crossed :)
Community. The RUclips algorithm found you today, and I'm very happy for that! As a novice woodworker (building my first bench =D ) I can relate to what you're doing. I'm look forward to watching more of your videos!
Community I just want to thank you very much for making this video. Me and the wife have been trying to get monetization for about a year and 100 videos. I've been wondering what I was doing wrong and if I should be doing more companies like Instagram. This has saved me a ton of wasted work, and I feel better. Truly, you helped us. Since all we do is share our life together that has a good amount of diy or food in the Philippines. On a side note how much do you know about chimney pipe. We built a wood fire stove and having issues with smoke.
perhaps I can help... your stove pipe needs to extend 2' above anything within a 10 ft radius. This will eliminate downdrafts or smoke backing up from your stove. Also if there are more than one flue exiting a chimney together, one flue must be 4" higher than the other...hope that helps, good luck!
I hear ya on that but if you're a keyboard warrior you abiotic probably just shut TF up instead of saying something negative when you could just go watch something else.
Hey bud. Obviously this has impacted your lifestyle. I would definitely hire an attorney and seek legal action for an answer as to "why" they canceled your account. Unfortunately that seems to be the only way to get any issues resolved now a days. You could have a potential lawsuit because you lost your sponsors and income. I'd look into it. Best of luck!
Community. Thank you for sharing your experience and positivity as you move forward. This is actually my first video of your channel but I’m looking forward to many more as I’m just getting started with some woodworking as a hobby and outlet. Best wishes on your future success. I also appreciate the advice or reminders that we all need about setting aside for a rainy day. Also diversifying our income. I’m a small business owner and know just how hard it is when those days hit especially if they hit back to back as they do at times. Thanks Spence.
I have seen many comments that say that this the first video of yours that they had seen. Same for me. This tells me that your reach is improving. I have lately seen many people making RUclips quit videos. I have no idea what the hell they are doing, but there are other platforms that are growing due to this kind of thing. Do what you love! We will follow you if you go.
Community: Eric, thanks very much for this video. While I am not on RUclips, I found myself in a similar situation. I have one client and support 3 employees. I am trying to find new business, but currently only have the one. Good luck in your journey, you do a great job with your videos and make them easy to understand.
Good video and really good advice. I quit my engineering job 2 years ago and am building a house for my wife and I, mostly by myself. I I clicked on your video because I was curious about how you lost half your business, but I will check out some of your project videos now too. Good luck with your channels.
Community. Sorry you had to experience this with your business. You clearly have a natural sense of integrity and passion for life and your work. That is what has brought and will continue bring success moving forward in your life.
Community: I hope you can rebuild your business! I'm at where you started: living in a small apartment and having to haul my tools and wood out into the parking lot to build anything, but I'm determined. I had to go a bit backwards because my husband and I lost our "stable" jobs and had to move from a really cheap area in the south where we owned 2 houses and 9 acres to a place that cost us twice that and have to live in small apartment in Massachusetts. Instead of building up my tool set, I had to sell before moving, but I kept my favorites and the most compact tools. One crazy thing I moved with because I didn't want to part with was my well dried cedar wood (1"x8"x9ft and 2"x8"x9ft). It was easy to store them: stacked neatly under the bed. So my first parking lot job was to make a bed frame to create storage under, then build a frame with storage for my kid, shelves, renter friendly extra shelf over the sink. I'm waiting for the right time, right house, for the right price to come on a market so that I can fix it up. In a mean time, I love youtube and your videos. I am learning all I can about woodworking, plumbing, wiring, drywall, bathroom renovations and just about anything I think will improve my skills and set me up the right way to renovate the fixerupper I want to buy. Thanks for keeping this going. I was not a big fan of instagram. I will watch you on other platforms.
COMMUNITY - Late to the party but big fan on You Tube. Cannot believe the arrogance of the big social media companies. You keep on being you and I am sure that your followers will continue to grow exponentially!! Your content is always upbeat, positive and extremely helpful to me as I try to build a skill to replace my own lost “major source”. Trying to find my way, and you have helped dramatically. Many thanks. Chuck
Community ... I am humbled by your attitude, your respect, your resilience. I appreciate your advice and experience. I hope you are able to recoup your losses and exceed your original goals!
Community. The great thing about social media is it is available for newcomers for an indefinite time after it was originally posted and still serves the same message as it did when first posted. The bad thing about social media is there is literally no rebuttal process that is favorable to the user and makes it nearly impossible to resolve issues in a timely manner. I hope you finally got your situation resolved favorably. I retired about five years ago and I've only recently gotten back into woodworking projects and as such only recently seen a couple of your posts. I like the simplified approach you use. Keep up the good work.
Community! Eric, what a nice video! I took a chance and watched all the way through and amazing what you've been through. I've been working on my own terms most of my life and started a business 10 years ago. While it's not been easy and fraught with challenges, the rewards have been amazing... although maybe not highly financial. Keep on keeping' on man! May '24 be the best year yet.- Frank
Community…. Just found your page a couple weeks ago and I can honestly say it’s one of my fav channels to watch. My dad was amazing at woodworking and I’ve tinkered off and on with it for years. Been a firefighter for 24 years and do remodeling on the side for about 24 years also. Getting a lot more into the detailed aspect of woodworking now, and loving it. And I rambled all of that 😂 to say I love the channel, and hate this happened. But what doesn’t kill ya, makes you stronger!! Glad I found your channel.
MAKE A DONATION: rebrand.ly/5sjl536
GRAB A SHIRT: rebrand.ly/d52ph5d
SUPPORT THE SHOW: rebrand.ly/txql2ur
PLANS FOR ALL PROJECTS: www.spencleydesignco.com/store
I had this happen to me with Amazon. I didn't get anywhere until I had emailed Bezos and probably 8 of his senior leadership team. It was at that point that my account was restored. You'll want to google to find out all of their email addresses and start the communication. Let me know how it goes!
Contact the Institute for Justice. Say you want to sue Instagram. They take cases pro-bono and they loooove taking on big outfits that shaft the "little guy". I wonder if someone hacked your account, posted something nasty, then reported your account. People are going to have to sue Instagram over and over to force them to reveal why they suspend accounts.
These companies are ruthless and their rules are so nebulus and subjective that you are always at risk. I would start a mail campaign (NOT email) to all of their C suite team. I did this once and it was reasonably effective. Don't give up!
@@BlameJason Rumble has a very limited audience as of this writing, but it may end up becoming a viable contender at some point.
Community - Best wishes and increasing success to you. You are a survivor and a positive role model for others.
Community. Spence, I am a 72 year old retired 6th grade teacher of 32 years. I love woodworking like you and I was never able to quit my day job of teaching. I retired at 55. Through hard work with absolutely ZERO formal training, I created Smith's Cabinetry and Fine Furniture. Still plugging away, I built my 17th kitchen last summer. The money went to new steel on my pole barn. Do not give up your dream but trust no one or no body or no entity other than yourself. I am very new to utube. Keep fighting the good fight. Tim.
Making the jump to go out on your own is really scary. I quit a good corporate job right after my wife had my daughter and 4 months prior I just bought a house and a new car with 20 animals to feed. It was rough at first but my name is starting to get out there and I love the way it's going.
More like (J)ewTube buddy
REPENT! and be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
@@repentofidols Are you for real, what's he got to repent for,for changing his life and working hard.
@@repentofidols one Christian to another, this isn’t sharing the Gospel of Jesus with anyone. Yelling repent doesn’t tell anyone about Jesus. Change your approach, brother.
Community: One thing you can do when things like this happen is get your followers to post about it on Instagram's twitter feed. When lots of people start drawing negative attention to their feed they normally deal with the issue and review it properly. Also reach out to other larger channels to publicise the problem and get their followers to pile on too. I have seen this work multiple times now.
This is literally the first video from your channel that I have seen, stay strong my dude. I'm down for the woodworking thing.
Ahhh, didn’t say “community” you lose.
@@mykeva1 I don’t understand what you mean……….oh his secret word thing? Eh
Me too
I can make more money just humming and manifesting abundance . Stop busting your ass, seriously .
@@Fox_Moulder Watch the video!
Community. Thanks for sharing your experience. I had a similarly tragic story... When I retired from the military, I thought I'd become a small-time videographer in my city because it was something that I loved doing. Just as I was starting up, though, my state stopped offering tax incentives to major production companies to come to our state to produce movies and TV. Within just a couple of months, 90% of the production businesses in our state had shut down or moved elsewhere. That left hundreds of film and video professionals looking for work and instantly competing with me. Soon, I had to take a job in admin at a big company and become an unhappy cog in a big machine (with many other unhappy cogs). Now, I'm retired from that, too. Today, I spend my time and money in my garage workshop making stuff out of wood, and I'm happy as a clam!
Community: I came across this video and it's the first time I've been exposed to your channel. Your video resonated with me because I've been in your shoes before. I've been a freelance illustrator for nearly 35 years and it's easy to wind up with most of your business income coming from a single source. There's a lot of reasons for this. One might be you have one really good client who loves working with you, they send you all the work you can handle, and they pay very well. So you start focusing your time on them, you back off on marketing yourself, and you turn down work from other clients so you can keep main client happy. Then a pandemic happens, or your client leaves the company they're working for and their replacement want to work with someone different than you. I can remember losing 80% of my business right after 9-11. But here's something that you have to remember-- you're working for yourself. You can pivot, make changes, learn from your mistakes and no one is standing in your way. When I worked at a full-time job, a single person held my livelihood in their hands. I could get fired or laid off and I'd have to either find another job or start from scratch. That's much worse than facing a temporary downturn in your business.
Thanks for the support, Chris!
This is a great reminder, Chris. Thank you!
That is an overt strategy employed by companies with small producers. Once they become your lifeline, by monopolising your time and you've abandoned your other clients, they begin to renegotiate the contract to pay you less. Now you're stuck needing to keep them happy and making less money, but your time is taken up so you can't pursue others.
Some very good advice in these comments.
Community gives good advice
I'm really sorry to hear what instagram did to you and I hope you can/have recovered.
Here's the lesson *for us all* - we cannot rely on faceless multinational companies to platform us. We have to expect that one day that platform will be taken away, or stop paying like it used to, or be bought up and change entirely.
These companies are not our friends, we are literally their products.
True. You have zero recourse. Which is a very precarious position to be in.
@@StCreedonly if you can afford a lawyer to go up against a company like Instagram filing suit for wrongful termination of your account, you might get anywhere. But of course the damage has already been done. And filling for damages would be challenging, i bet.
….and then corporations want to put our stuff in the cloud and trust them?
@@oscarsusan3834 exactly!
Community. Frustrating.
Community: If I was in this situation, I'm not sure I would have opened a new account with Instagram. It's hilarious that they would delete your other account, and then allow you to open a new one.
Good on you for taking the high road. Love the channel!
For sure. Screw those that screw you.
Community!
Community. Really sorry that happened to you, and hope it gets resolved. This was the first video of yours that I stumbled on, but I look forward to checking out your woodworking content. Your ability to turn this into a positive message and try to help others avoid similar pitfalls is inspiring. I wish you all the best!
Community: it stinks that one entity can hold that much power with no recourse. Keep fighting and we will keep supporting.
This kind of thing happens _way too often._ Stories of RUclips dropping people and not giving them a true chance to challenge their decision. Perhaps it is time for a guild, or similar, to form for the content creators' benefit. Perhaps the guild could provide a legal fund. I'd bet a lawyer could get a response from these platforms and and actually help the content creators to fight back.
What's the bet on a Karen being the instigator of the account shutdown and automation taking over?
@@JV-pu8kx I've heard this on almost every platform. RUclips, Twitch, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Etsy, they just arbitrarily decide you've broke one of their rules and don't even legally have to have any kind of real appeal process or even have to tell you what rule you broke. Some lady had thousands of ebooks from Amazon bought and they just decided one day she broke their terms of service and canceled her account, without refunding her a dime.
Community.
What Instagram did to you is outrageous, Eric, especially in light of all of the nasty and cruel content that never seems to get the axe. I hope you can eventually get your account - and your sponsors - back. Thanks for doing what you do.
Thank you for the support, mister bungle!
Meta, Formerly facebook, is trash. Pure and utter trash.
I'm a developer and I literally told their recruiters to stuff it and never talk to me. I routeinely remind people I know, that work there, that they're working for the worst company on the planet.
Thank you for watching
I'll bet Instagram will take him back if he gets a female half naked as his assistant
@@sjb3460 Not to mention they won't remove the bad retailers that rip people off. Amazon has gotten to big and most likely controlled by China anymore.
Since this may happen again, here's my tip: get a lawyer to write them a nasty letter about their claim of human exploitation, since that is defamation. Letters sent to legal departments, especially certified letters by lawyers, have a tendency to get a response from a human.
This
You gave him a white collar response when he is obviously cosplaying as a blue collar worker that has been unjustly treated by an evil corporation.
How is it defamation? They only told him the reason. They didn’t publicly say it about him.
Yeah, I don't see how defamation would apply here.
But I would expect a claim for financial damages should be valid. No doubt, Instagram has something in their Terms of Service that attempts to preclude a lawsuit, but contracts like that can be invalidated, on the basis that they are imposed unfairly (since there is no real negotiation, nor any opportunity for the other party to modify the contract before agreeing).
Between the loss of sponsorship and the revenue that brings, along with the ad-sharing revenue, and of course any harm caused by the loss of the synergy between platforms (no Instagram probably means fewer RUclips views), I would expect there to be a claim worth pursuing here.
@@harvey66616 that makes sense.
Community: I am a business owner that has spent the last 20 years starting and growing my business. In 2020 I watched the Pandemic turn half the world into useful idiots for ideologically constipated causes. Like you I reluctantly took a woodworking class in High school, and really took to it, so when we were all trapped in our homes I decided to build a shop, and begin building cabinets and remodeling our home, and furniture that my wife had been begging to buy for years. I quickly realized that many of our friends and neighbors were highly impressed and began putting in orders. It’s no get rich plan, but I have paid for my shop and tools now, and continue to learn from and be inspired but people like yourself that love to learn and are passionate about creating. More power to you and I wish you all the success you deserve.
Community.
I started woodworking in my early 60's and LOVE it. Videos from people like you mean a lot to me and serve as encouragement and learning tips. Many creators share the good with the bad. Often you learn more from the "bad". Hang in there and we'll keep watching.
This video was showing up on my recommended list for over a month now, and I'm so glad I finally clicked on it. So sorry this happened to you. It's not the first story like this that I've heard either and it's extremely disappointing that these companies don't consider the effects these decisions have on ppl's livelihoods. These stories confirm my thoughts that I should never try to do YT full time because it can all get taken away from you in a second due to an algorithm's error. I wish you the best going forward
Community: First time I have even heard about you and I am very impressed how you have dealt with your situation. This is something that lots of people have had to deal with and you just provided valuable information on how to pick yourself up, dust yourself off and start again. Good luck to you and I hope that things come back 10 fold for you!
Welcome aboard! Thanks for watching! I truly appreciate the support!
Community. I have to hand it to you. You took an unfortunate situation and you didn't show bitterness, anger, etc. You've used this as a learning experience and just as important you may have reached out to others and helped them by pointing out to have other streams of income and not all your eggs in one basket. This is the first time I've seen one of your videos and look forward to watching more. I wish you the best success.
Community: I lament the loss of shop classes in school. They were, by far, my favorite and most useful classes. I’ve been a problem solving woodworker for decades. It’s a shame that kids won’t find a hands-on class that ignite a lifelong spark. I also fell for the BS that the trades weren’t as valuable as some corporate job requiring a 4 year degree. Thank you for sharing this very modern misfortune. It was enlightening.
I took 4 years of it and never got more than a C as the shop teacher was the football coach and I never would join..
Thanks for sharing your story. Fortunately my high school was deeply immersed in the vocational education. Good thing because I struggled through middle school and never understood math, that was until I was introduced to vocational math. Now it really wasn’t any different but seeing math used in this manner I got it, trigonometry, physics made sense. Up graduation I went to work in one of the many mines and mills that surround out county and became an apprentice. Having 3 years of welding, 2 years of machinists training, 2 years of electrical work 2 years of carpentry , 2 years of drafting and 1 years in automotive education I breezed through a 4 year mechanical apprenticeship in 3, and 2 years for the electrical apprenticeship. I made a great living and fully retired at 62. I’m so thankful that my school district saw the needs of local industry and prepared those of us not heading off to college to waste our parents money.
thank you for watching and for sharing your story!
Community. I have recently retired, and I am taking on some unambitious woodworking projects with a few power tools. I totally sucked at the shop classes when I was in junior high, and my shop teacher told me that I should never touch a power tool ever again. I love that you are putting your work and hints out in front of the internet, which can be kind or cruel, sometimes at the same time. And videos like yours are a huge help.
Sorry you got cancelled. I cancelled my Meta account a few years back when they started canceling truth as "misinformation". RUclips is not a free platform either. If you are making money on RUclips, good for you. But be aware that you could be cut off from posting and monetizing RUclips at any time.
Spence... I am a 58 year old rancher that has a woodworking hobby. I have zero social media presence, however several people tell me I should sell my stuff online like Etsy. I too wonder what my future looks like if I decide to turn my hobby into a business. I make everything from pens on the lathe, to,
one of a kind cutting boards. I have even added a 100 watt CO2 industrial laser to my repertoire. All that being said... I feel you. I can't imagine having a revenue stream ripped out from under me like a cheap rug. It is one reason I haven't jumped into the social media waters. Don't get me wrong... social media is a great tool for businesses. However, a chainsaw is a great tool too, but it can leave you a bloody mess if something goes wrong. Keep your chin up and keep moving forward. Your videos are great content and fun to watch.
as a pretty young woodworker(i try), seeing someone with such minimal tools and no formal training do the things you do is insanely inspiring.
Community… This is such an awful situation! Facebook is truly evil, and I keep hearing stories that just reinforce that. Best of luck, and keep up the amazing work!
Thank you for the support, David!
Community! Thanks for having a tough conversation. A lot of content creators always try to put on the appearance that everything is perfect. It’s nice to be able to hear about some of the difficulties that can come with working this type of a business. Good luck with the rebuild!
Sounds like a hater made a false report and they just moved ahead to get you out. Community. Just seeing if you really read all the comments. Blessings on the recovery.
Community- It's called putting all eggs in one basket. As a small business owner, I avoid all social media. One on one and word of mouth is the best advertising. Always give customer more than they expect.
Haha, I quit school halfway through the dissertation phase of my PhD because all I could think about was my tools. Haven’t regretted it for a second!
That might be a little bit of an obsession haha
Community was a really great show. Joel might have been able to help in this situation.
That's truly a terrible situation to be in, but take solace that it happened relatively early on, and not after you went full time. You got this!
Thanks for the support
Community. I’m just seeing this today and I feel like you’re talking directly to me. I do cell tower work and my company has expanded. It’s total corporate bs now. I’m a former carpenter, and have a garage full of tools. Screw making other people money while I try and keep my lips above water. This was inspirational, thanks.
Community: This is my first time seeing your YT channel. Point taken, and amplified, totally agree. My experience is almost the inverse of yours. As a Degreed Mechanical Engineer for nearly 40 years, it was my DAY jobs that kept folding, companies going under within months of my joining them. I have burned through 20 companies since 1985. What sustained me was my working as a Home Improvement contractor, and Historic Woodworking Restoration specialist, both started as a hobbies that I loved! After that last company blew out (didn't even get severance or unemployment!), I launched my own LLC's. And now I am official in both worlds, each a backup for the other. Stay strong, stay flexible! I wish you great success!
Community: Feel for you man, we had one of our startup businesses killed by a platform pulling the plug, and it hurt. No rhyme or reason at all, and no response from them, no matter how hard we tried to communicate. Had to give up and start again with them. Certainly makes you appreciate that relying on one source is a scary prospect. Good luck, it's tough to get the motivation to go again when this happens.
Boy, can i relate. i am a one man construction co that mainly does commercial remodels & build-outs I had one main customer that i developed over the last 15 years. His company fed me over 90% of my income both directly & indirectly. then the pandemic hit & everyone started working from home & stopped the need for commercial remodels. Now strike 2 is my customer is stepping back from his business & turning it over to his son who doesn't appear to be interested in continuing the business relationship. long & the short of it is I'm struggling to develop new customers ( I haven't been successful with a bid this year- in fact ,i haven't worked this year) and will be bankrupt in one or two months. Your advice really hits home with me; i wish I had developed other customers sooner.
Thank you for the support, doofus
Community - I appreciate you taking the time to make this and keep things clean in general. God bless your efforts man.
Community, interesting that this could happen when so many actually do something wrong and don't get kicked off. I have a small space like you, but am retired so I enjoy seeing how you work things through. Good luck
I had a very similar experience with high school and trade school, except I wanted to do automotive repair. Engineering college later and now I'm into woodworking (and still work on cars for fun) but always believed the stigma against tradesman/ skilled labor was the worst.
Thank you for watching and for your support!
I’m going to community college right now for mechanical engineering but I feel the same way. I just want something to fall back on in case that is my plan at least. But I’ve been getting into some wood working lately and bought tools for it.
Community. As a high school shop teacher I’ve learned lots from your videos that I’ve passed on to my students. Thank you for sharing your story about tour career journey. I will remember it when encouraging my students to follow their dreams for the futures they want. Keep doing what you love! Good luck bro.
Community is everything and your fans will definitely be here to support you! Keep your head up....and thanks for the reminder about the harshness of life sometimes!
Community. Hey Spencley, keep fighting the good fight brother. I'm really impressed that you started building while renting at an apartment, and that you've made that work. I have made some basic furniture out of my dad's garage and after that I would not have thought it possible to do what you have done. I watched your video about helpful tools you would've bought earlier and thought that was insightful and good too!
Community. I can relate to your story in terms of getting into woodworking in school. 100% agree there needs to be more support for youth if they want to get into trades instead of going the "traditional route" of college. I think it had a stigma and still does. Hopefully people and channels like yours help young people see what's possible. Thanks for creating such great content!
Thank you Spenceley for your channel and the education you provide to aspiring Woodworker‘s. I have been building my woodworking shop and business for the last two years and hope to have my break out the spring doing craft and Streetfair circuits.
@many7351, I totally agree. Masters in chemistry and in teaching. Love my workbench and reduced homework. As a child I was always happiest at my father‘s wood bench with a hammer or saw. I went to private school and they did not have a shop class. Had my experience early on been different, I would have immediately gone into the trades and become a carpenter or furniture maker or whatever. The most important lesson anyone can take from this, follow your dreams! Pursue your passion and chase your happiness! ☺️
I'm a woman and always loved building, making things that I needed. I went to college, and was drawn to the construction - trades, as well as the other things that you had to take to get a degree in the main college. But my interests are always so varied - I took farming, ag classes too, to the point that I just stopped with the other classes and took construction, drafting, cad, etc. Now I'm 65 and my sons are grown - one in business- one in computer tech - and one in Electrical trades. The point is - Plumbing, Electrical would have been great if I actually got into construction. I Love the Trades, they are so VERY important. I have built so many things for my home - my hubby was a Family Practice Dr and couldn't screw in a screw. We made playgrounds, tables, cabinets, drawers for my kitchen, a covered patio, then enclosed part of the patio for a workshop with all the tools we all needed. Next is enclosing the patio thats left for family to sit in comfort with out mosquitos. All the boys have tools here - and we constantly are building. Go with your heart. I never did get that degree. I just build my own houses, sheds, cabinets, book cases, tv stands, you name it. And I'm happy.
@@daedaluscreation4869 / For sure.
@@ppastrana1672 / That's awesome. I struggled for 11 years in and out of college before I finally got a degree and teaching credential. I had industrial arts in junior high, and was good at it. Built a folding kayak in 8th grade. I took 3+ years of wood shop in high school. I dropped out of college, got into a house-building program... learned what I needed in a few months, and went to Colorado and got a job on a framing crew. $5.00/hour. It took a few more years before I got my ass back in school to finish my degree, and I was always able to make money as a carpenter. Now I sub teach part time, and work on and in my shop, where I'm finally able to put things "away", instead of in my truck. If I had it to do again I would have focused more on woodworking/contracting, and photography, which is another passion. Seriously, learning to do what you want to do, instead of what you should do is key in this life.
Community. Thank you for continuing to do what you do. I didn’t start following you until after that happened. I appreciate the time you put in to your followers and personal responses.
Thank you for the support, Shane!
Community! Glad you are still posting, I love your videos. I was told I couldn’t go into woodworking as a teen after high school as it was for boys not girls. I have recently jumped in in my 40’s and I love it. Keep teaching me!
Community: I'm 64 years old and got laid off 3 weeks before Christmas. I really can connect with your past experiences. I am at a point where I'm wondering what is next..... Keep your chin up you'll make it..... I've been where you are many times
Community: Completely understand how you felt in high school. It seemed like everybody thought you were a failure if you went into any trade. I did go to college, but wish I hadn’t. Good luck building up again
Thank you for watching and for your support!
I actually knew more than the shop instructor did as I would hang at at the company carpentry shed in the AM waiting for the buss to show up. He was also the football coach I never made more than a "C' in that class as I would never sign up for the team..
Community: I know I'm 6 months late on this, but damn if you didn't get shafted on that! Your videos have, in the last two weeks, inspired me to dust off my tools and get back to doing some projects that have been bouncing around in my head for 8-10 years. Good luck to you and hope you reach the dream of quitting the 9-5, rat race, BS.
Community!
I was a small business owner for years and went through something similar. My heart literally bleeds for you. I don't do Instagram nor Facebook at all so I don't know if the issue has been resolved but I wish you and your family all the best now and in the future! Good luck!
Community: I don't know you but I can imagine the feeling of injustice you're through; you made a long way since your first table and your talent isn't lost; I hope you'll be able to quickly make sponsors back and sales go on!
Community: Dude, keep doing you! I know the feeling about being able to build stuff and in the end see the hard work you've put into it!
I appreciate the kind words, Justin!
Just stumbled across your woodworking videos. After growing up in a woodworking shop (Grandfather, Father and Uncles), it's good to see someone making a goal of woodworking as their primary source of income. Btw.....nicely edited videos. Also, a great message, no matter what you do in life.
Community. Thanks for spreading awareness about the IG issue. Also really enjoyed the discussion about career choices and how the trades are often considered as inferior paths. It's super important for kids to know that many great opportunities are available and how to make the right decision, whether it's college, trades, military or whatever else. Good luck and thanks for the content.
Community: I hope everything works out with the new IG account. You did a fantastic job turning something really difficult and frustrating into something positive. I’m also really enjoying your videos, and love that there’s someone else out there who doesn’t have all the formal schooling and training. I’m in the same boat and at the very beginning of my journey, just working out the kinks on my first video. It’s inspiring to see that it can become something bigger. Best of luck, and I look forward to watching you grow!
Community - I'm sorry that happened with IG. That's crazy! I found your channel just recently and really enjoy the videos I have seen. Well done. I have also recently started woodworking and look forward to watching more of your content. Hope all goes well for you. Keep up the great work 👍🏼
Unbelievable. Hope you can recover your business quickly...I enjoy the heck out of your videos.
Community is everything. I'm really sorry for what you went through. I got rubbish grades in school and it took me years to learn that I have a passion for woodworking. And even now, I am struggling to build a business here in the UK. But I am happy that your dream in working for you thus far. Keep it up :)
Community: dude…that blows. I get it. 18 months ago I lost/left my 22 year corp. career. I am now enjoying my shop time, building and hanging with my kids. Just starting my journey sharing these projects I build on social, etc. I have no idea what I am doing, but hope to figure it all out.
Diversification is key!
Thanks for sharing your story!
Thanks for checking out the video, and thank YOU for sharing your story, Matt! I wish you the best of luck! I do offer coaching and consultations in growing a social media business if that's ever something you are interested in learning more about
Community is important, losing your IG account sucks. Hopefully you'll eventually get it back. There are lots of horror stories about small businesses that only used FB / IG or Etsy getting crushed through no fault of their own.
Diversification is super super important for everyone!
Community - My sympathy goes out to you as we had the same type of thing happen to us back in 2018 and we were well on our way to getting back on our feet when Covid hit, which set us back yet again. So keep up the good fight toward the goal.
Community: good video. I’ll check out the channel. Free advise. Go to CA’s Secretary of State website and find the registered agent for Instagram. Craft a well reasoned and concise letter explaining the situation and saying that if this situation isn’t corrected that you will be forced to take the appropriate legal action. Do some research and find at least one seemingly viable claim before sending the letter. Hire a process server to delivery this to the registered agent. Possibly your best bet to get someone to look at this situation. It would be even better if you could find an attorney to draft the letter for you. Best of luck.
Community! You have a strength of character, and a great attitude. I was once close to bankruptcy and it took time for me to fight and pay all my debts, two years in fact. So keep fighting and above all enjoy your woodworking.
Well I for one am trying to grow my woodworking business so I'd love to know those companies who bailed on you, with zero dialogue, so I(we) can steer clear of them. I'm truly sorry you had to go through this but I appreciate you bringing this to masses. Being in the financial sector for over 2 decades, diversification is critical to success. I wish you hadn't experienced this personally. Thank you again and keep up the fight. I hope you get reinstated to IG soon.
Thanks for the support
Community: Sorry to hear you had the setback. Love the resilience. Rooting for you. Enjoy your videos. I use the techniques you show in my own projects. Keep up the great work and contect.
After months of work, a viewer who works at Facebook reached out after watching this video and they helped rectify the issue. My account is now publicly live and back in working order!
@@SpencleyDesignCo so happy for you! I just had this happen on Facebook. They shut down my personal account because of something supposedly that was on a page that I hadn’t touched in 10 years. They don’t even show you what you are accused of! My dad just passed last year and all my conversations and pictures with him were on there and now gone. 😢 Any pointers you can give me are appreciated. Thanks for all you do! 👍
I just recently found you here on RUclips and I appreciate your struggle. It's only really been since August when you made this video, but I've been trying to build something akin to what you're doing. It seems there is no shortage of engineers here trying to start channels about making things. It's kind of a sad state of things that we all are looking for more freeing outlets when engineering was supposed to be a really cool career. Community.
Community is really what we all need to get back to. I just found your site a couple of weeks ago and am really enjoying it. I love your practical approach to figuring out what you really need and not what someone else tells you you need. Sorry to hear what Insta did to you.
Community.
This video is the 1st of yours that I've watched. I can't help but feel inspired at your determination and energy - pushing ahead for over a year on the hope that someday, you'd be able to make a living doing something you truly enjoy. That's an inspiration to us all. I've dropped a Subscribe and I look forward to sharing your future ideas as part of this... "Community"!
Thank you for watching and for your support!
My thoughts exactly. So unfortunate to work so hard and lose it all that fast ESPECIALLY when you’ve done nothing wrong but it happens. And we all need to be reminded of that from time to time. So glad he shared this experience and is keeping his head high.
After months of work, a viewer who works at Facebook reached out after watching this video and they helped rectify the issue. My account is now publicly live and back in working order!
Community: Great story. I've never seen this channel before and subbed :). I too took a shop class in middle school and high school and loved it. Like you said it was looked down upon as a career path. I started to get back into it about 5 yrs ago...(when I turned 40). I also brew beer and painting. I know to many hobbies. But, I enjoy them all and using my hands. I'm looking forward into watching you library of vids. I hope you recover soon from this.
Thanks for watching and thanks for the support, Jeremy
For whatever reason, today is the first time that I came across your channel. At the risk of sounding melodramatic, I have to say that this video has got to be the most impactful that I remember watching! I was forced to do a career reboot late in life. Right now, all of my eggs are in one basket, and that has been a concern, but not enough to make the proper adjustments. After listening to your story, that is going to change this month. You can count on me being a subscriber and a fan. Thank you, sir.
Community. This is the first video of yours I've seen. Subscribed. My heart goes out to you for what Insta did to you. In a former business I advertised on FB and was hacked (I don't have proof, but I think there was good chance that it was FB fault). The blocked advertising. Their loss. (I might still be blocked to this day.) I totally get the "don't put all your eggs in one basket" program. It is so important. That is really sage advice.
Thank you for the hard learned lesson and giving back to the RUclips community.
Community - Holy crap, Eric. I can't even imagine the hell you've been going through since June. I really hope things turn around for you. You are correct about the multiple income streams. That's what I'm hoping to do for myself as well. Your situation is the entire reason behind the old saying of "don't put all your eggs in one basket". Good luck moving forward! - Joe Porter
Thank you so much for the support! It’s very humbling. Thank you, joe
Community
Hang in there! I am so sorry this happened. It's horsecrap. I'm a lifelong woodworker. It's my life's passion. I watch your videos not to learn, but to watch someone with as much enthusiasm and passion as I have myself! Keep up the good work!
PS- watching you sit on the tablesaw was making me cringe!!
I THOUGHT I WAS THE ONLY ONE!!!!🤣🤣🤣
community: I really appreciate the way that you have given a serious and practical piece of advice for your audience instead of turning an unfair and unfortunate even into another rant. the takeaway... don't put all your eggs into one basket (especially if you don't own the basket, but only the eggs.)
Community: I’m so sorry this happened to you. You’ve come such a long way and to have a massive hit like that had to feel devastating. I’m glad to see how positive you’ve stayed and dedicated to pursuing what you love! Keep it up!! You’re channel has always been one of my favorites!
Thank you very much for watching and for the kind words!
Community: I can’t believe in this day and age a multimillion dollar company could be so negligent and incompetent. I hope everything has worked out for you Eric, I really appreciate the work you do
You don't live in candyland. You live in the kingdom of antichrist.
Well, how does it hurt them? It's only a problem for Instagram if it gives them a loss of income. Otherwise, this is actually the cheapest way to deal with anything: just don't respond. Saves a lot of money on humans.
COMMUNITY Just checked out your shop - very nice work... I got a few basics - for now... Maybe tmi, but I am 64 year old woman, wanted to do woodwording in junior high - unheard of at the time - my Dad freaked out and suffice it to say I took sewing... dont get me wrong, I love sewing, though I didn't at the time... met my husband 40 years ago and finally took that woodworking class, went to art school in furniture design (still eyeing your dining chair that is reminiscent - to me - to the classic Eames chair - very comfortable for all body types!) Anyway... raised kids, etc, and trying to get back to my 'interests' - soooo, very happy to find your videos and your plans... thanks for your generosity (I love freebies) - though I was bummed NOT to find your cement coasters 😊 All the best to you and yours! Thanks for your openness and educating all of us!
We need every large influencer, in and out of woodworking, to go on the offensive. This is ridiculous.
Thank you for watching and for your support!
Community: I just found your channel today. I watch one of your videos and found this one. I have heard of this happening to several people with Instagram accounts. I am a curious George with a variety of interests. Your story of finding your passion in woodworking and building is great. Keep pursuing your dream. The setbacks are what make us stronger even when it seems to be quite a loss. Great advice about revenue diversification. You have a great setup, dream, and pursuit. Keep getting after it! Shalom(Peace)
Community- thanks for putting this video out. I knew something was up with your IG, but didn’t know what. What an absolute bummer to have them cancel you with zero chance to respond or defend yourself. Especially for what they accused you of!! Anyway, glad to hear you’re still moving forward because I always look forward to watching your content.
Thank you so much for the support! It’s very humbling. Thank you, John
Community. This really hits home with me and my family; my employer for the last 6 years just closed the factory I worked in. I hope you and your family have a good Christmas and you recover from all this.
So sorry that happened, Eric! Let us know if you need anything!
Thank you so much for being such an amazing long time supporter of me and every other maker out there!
Nice to see total boat supporting you. It truly shows their moral compass is spot on
Community. Best of luck Eric. Always appreciate your honesty especially in tool reviews. I discovered you when looking for where the Delta table saw went & discovered your Rigid version. Just subscribed. Weekend Wood Warrior looking forward to full time woodworking when I finally retire.
I appreciate the genuine support, Fred!
Community...... You are not alone when it comes to "trades" being looked down upon. This for me was a reason I didn't pursue a career in working with my hands. Don't get me wrong, it was VERY wrong of school and peers to look so down upon such trades. My dad was a tradesman and worked hard physically for many many years. I attribute a lot of who I am today to my late father. Your engineer background is so something I wish I had done reflecting back. I recall from your letter that you sent me the experience you had with your college advisor, that again is another let down and I have been there with you on that. How can an advisor speak down like that because they made different choices in life!? As you say she was a great advisor, but was she really? I've had a "luck of the dice " experience with Ikea, our work desks are extremely well made and I've had mine for over 12 years and couldn't/wouldn't think otherwise, but YES most of it is craptastic. Your's and Zac's podcast is undeniably a super awesome podcast and endeavor and a new challenge. I am excited to see how you overcome this Insta-bullshit! You've always been so resourceful and shown to this community that diving into the deepend, regardless of what your peers said in high-school, college advisor or any other joe schmoe who feels the need to poo-poo on your dreams shame on them. I still, to this day, feel like the lucky one finding you.
P.S you now have a few follower on Insta-bullshit 😁 event hough it's not my space but you will always drop a surprise reel and that brings a smile to my face.
P.P.S your sign is missing its "E" in design... sorry it's the graphic designer in me still love all your content and we are here for you, keep your chin up as you always do.
Thanks for sharing that story and for all your support, Josh! I was actually cleaning up the shop for the video and the “E” fell off that sign 🤣
It's crazy how much our educational system has screwed us in pushing college and looking down on the trades
It’s “big college” trying to take over
@@SpencleyDesignCo Actually, D Sign looks pretty cool Eric!
Community. This video really hit home with me. Right now I'm a factory worker who works at a new facility that could in all reality go under tomorrow. While I don't think that will happen you never know and I've wanted to start something to call my own and this encourages me to try harder to make that happen.
Community, I'm really sorry this happened to you. I recently picked up the hobby of woodworking after my 9-to-5 and I too have learned everything I know from RUclips and Trial/Error. Not to get your hopes up, but I reached out to my contact at Meta to hopefully resolve this issue. No promises, but fingers crossed :)
Thanks for watching! I truly appreciate the support!
@@SpencleyDesignCo Looks like your account is back up :)
Something is happening! The account is active but I can’t log in quite yet. Hopefully that’s a good sign
Community. The RUclips algorithm found you today, and I'm very happy for that! As a novice woodworker (building my first bench =D ) I can relate to what you're doing. I'm look forward to watching more of your videos!
If you want to cut to the chase, start at 12 minute mark.
who's chase?
@@SpencleyDesignCo your bullshit
This comment deserves way more upvotes and be pinned
Thanks, I don’t think I could take any more abrupt body poses….
Community I just want to thank you very much for making this video. Me and the wife have been trying to get monetization for about a year and 100 videos. I've been wondering what I was doing wrong and if I should be doing more companies like Instagram. This has saved me a ton of wasted work, and I feel better. Truly, you helped us. Since all we do is share our life together that has a good amount of diy or food in the Philippines. On a side note how much do you know about chimney pipe. We built a wood fire stove and having issues with smoke.
perhaps I can help... your stove pipe needs to extend 2' above anything within a 10 ft radius. This will eliminate downdrafts or smoke backing up from your stove. Also if there are more than one flue exiting a chimney together, one flue must be 4" higher than the other...hope that helps, good luck!
OMG. Get to the point.
Yup unsubscribed.
I hear ya on that but if you're a keyboard warrior you abiotic probably just shut TF up instead of saying something negative when you could just go watch something else.
@@blocktrain849You and the other guy sound petty AF. Wow.
Hey bud. Obviously this has impacted your lifestyle. I would definitely hire an attorney and seek legal action for an answer as to "why" they canceled your account. Unfortunately that seems to be the only way to get any issues resolved now a days. You could have a potential lawsuit because you lost your sponsors and income. I'd look into it. Best of luck!
Thank you for the suggestion
Community. Thank you for sharing your experience and positivity as you move forward. This is actually my first video of your channel but I’m looking forward to many more as I’m just getting started with some woodworking as a hobby and outlet. Best wishes on your future success. I also appreciate the advice or reminders that we all need about setting aside for a rainy day. Also diversifying our income. I’m a small business owner and know just how hard it is when those days hit especially if they hit back to back as they do at times. Thanks Spence.
Community...first of your videos I have seen, and it is at a time in my life where it really spoke to me. Thank you for hanging in there.
I have seen many comments that say that this the first video of yours that they had seen. Same for me. This tells me that your reach is improving. I have lately seen many people making RUclips quit videos. I have no idea what the hell they are doing, but there are other platforms that are growing due to this kind of thing. Do what you love! We will follow you if you go.
Community: Eric, thanks very much for this video. While I am not on RUclips, I found myself in a similar situation. I have one client and support 3 employees. I am trying to find new business, but currently only have the one. Good luck in your journey, you do a great job with your videos and make them easy to understand.
Community....
Glad this worked out for you. So sorry to hear you had to go through this. Seems like a good guy and very relatable
Good video and really good advice. I quit my engineering job 2 years ago and am building a house for my wife and I, mostly by myself. I I clicked on your video because I was curious about how you lost half your business, but I will check out some of your project videos now too. Good luck with your channels.
Community. Sorry you had to experience this with your business. You clearly have a natural sense of integrity and passion for life and your work. That is what has brought and will continue bring success moving forward in your life.
Community: I hope you can rebuild your business! I'm at where you started: living in a small apartment and having to haul my tools and wood out into the parking lot to build anything, but I'm determined. I had to go a bit backwards because my husband and I lost our "stable" jobs and had to move from a really cheap area in the south where we owned 2 houses and 9 acres to a place that cost us twice that and have to live in small apartment in Massachusetts. Instead of building up my tool set, I had to sell before moving, but I kept my favorites and the most compact tools. One crazy thing I moved with because I didn't want to part with was my well dried cedar wood (1"x8"x9ft and 2"x8"x9ft). It was easy to store them: stacked neatly under the bed. So my first parking lot job was to make a bed frame to create storage under, then build a frame with storage for my kid, shelves, renter friendly extra shelf over the sink. I'm waiting for the right time, right house, for the right price to come on a market so that I can fix it up. In a mean time, I love youtube and your videos. I am learning all I can about woodworking, plumbing, wiring, drywall, bathroom renovations and just about anything I think will improve my skills and set me up the right way to renovate the fixerupper I want to buy. Thanks for keeping this going. I was not a big fan of instagram. I will watch you on other platforms.
COMMUNITY - Late to the party but big fan on You Tube. Cannot believe the arrogance of the big social media companies. You keep on being you and I am sure that your followers will continue to grow exponentially!! Your content is always upbeat, positive and extremely helpful to me as I try to build a skill to replace my own lost “major source”. Trying to find my way, and you have helped dramatically. Many thanks.
Chuck
Community. Thank you for sharing! I'm starting out on my RUclips journey and appreciate hearing your story.
Community ... I am humbled by your attitude, your respect, your resilience. I appreciate your advice and experience. I hope you are able to recoup your losses and exceed your original goals!
Community. The great thing about social media is it is available for newcomers for an indefinite time after it was originally posted and still serves the same message as it did when first posted. The bad thing about social media is there is literally no rebuttal process that is favorable to the user and makes it nearly impossible to resolve issues in a timely manner. I hope you finally got your situation resolved favorably. I retired about five years ago and I've only recently gotten back into woodworking projects and as such only recently seen a couple of your posts. I like the simplified approach you use. Keep up the good work.
Community! Eric, what a nice video! I took a chance and watched all the way through and amazing what you've been through. I've been working on my own terms most of my life and started a business 10 years ago. While it's not been easy and fraught with challenges, the rewards have been amazing... although maybe not highly financial. Keep on keeping' on man! May '24 be the best year yet.- Frank
Community…. Just found your page a couple weeks ago and I can honestly say it’s one of my fav channels to watch. My dad was amazing at woodworking and I’ve tinkered off and on with it for years. Been a firefighter for 24 years and do remodeling on the side for about 24 years also. Getting a lot more into the detailed aspect of woodworking now, and loving it. And I rambled all of that 😂 to say I love the channel, and hate this happened. But what doesn’t kill ya, makes you stronger!! Glad I found your channel.
Incredible story. Keep going with the woodworking. You are an excellent teacher with a good sense of humour who is also very honest.