Gamer Supps Sponsorship, and how it will effect content
Added 2024-02-20 21:08:20 +0000 UTC
Hi All.
Recently I've accepted a sponsorship deal with Gamer Supps, a powdered 'gamer' energy drink company, they also make those 'waifu cups'.
As Patreon supporters, you are directly contributing to the continued success of all channels and projects, because of that I am accountable to you, so I'd like to briefly cover why I took this sponsorship, how it will effect content, and give you the chance to voice any issues you may have. I will read any and all messages, and if this proves an unpopular choices, I will reassess once the sponsorship segment finishes, this is not a forever deal.
The channels Hayes, Plays, Says and Replays, along with the twitch channel, have grown substantially, and I get daily emails from companies wanting me to push products, from NFT's, Crypto currency, those Scottish land titles, subscription wine services, mobile rpg's, mobile AFK games, mental health counselling services, banking apps, even gold selling websites.
I have never been against taking sponsorships, however I needed to know I was taking the RIGHT ones, so to make filtering these emails easy, I set myself 2 rules for accepting sponsorships:
1 - I must personally use the product frequently.
2 - It must be a product I feel has value to the audience.
Your support has allowed me to stick FIRMLY to these two rules, and turn down untold numbers of sponsorship deals, and I will keep sticking to them, no matter what.
This is a product I use, and feel is high enough quality to work with.
As for content changes, Gamer Supps have not demanded the hard sell, no 60 second unskippable ads here, I made sure of that. They have asked I mention the product every few videos, which I feel is fair, but I will also upload an ad free version of any vid for ALL tiers of Patreon supporters.
You will see links appear in YouTube video descriptions, a twitch panel appear, and a GS graphic appear infrequently in the corner during Twitch streams.
I hope you can understand my reasons for working with Gamer Supps, I will read all feedback and make the best choices for you, for me, and for the future of the channel.
If you do want to try the product, there's a decent free sample pack, and code 'Josh' gets you 10% off anything.
Thanks, Josh :)
gamer supps is great im in full support of this keep it up!
Ash Clark
2024-09-24 06:17:24 +0000 UTC
Love the transparency, I have no problems with it, though I would much prefer to support you through a Josh Strife Gays onlyfans profile.
Balogh Péter
2024-04-29 11:32:50 +0000 UTC
You mean you are not frequently buying Scottish land titles?
Also do they have husbando cups too?
Osvaldo Andreaus
2024-04-23 13:22:36 +0000 UTC
As long as you don't start a video with "this video is sponsored by Raid Shadow Legends" I'm ok with most things. A pay to win/fun game sponsorship would destroy credibility for me and I'd have to say goodbye. I recently had a Rust player (Willjum) did a sponsorship for a cashgrab mobile game...and I was very sad b/c I really liked his content. If you need money that badly start a gofundme, you'd be surprised how much fans would give as a one time donation to prevent you from whoring yourself out to bad faith game creators.
Aaron LeRoy
2024-04-04 19:54:09 +0000 UTC
While i don't mind sponsored segments i feel like it is a slippery slope.
Other youtubers like mmo bytes and lazy peon do sponsored reviews which just completly destroys their credibility.
So i would advise on not taking any sponsorships that can cause a conflict of interest.
Lizriil
2024-04-04 03:52:53 +0000 UTC
Get that $$$ JSH. In an ideal world creators would be able to make money purely from their content, but we all know that’s not the world we live in and if we want to continue consuming quality content, this is what that looks like. I think your viewers are smart enough to make informed decisions about the products they decide to purchase.
Han x
2024-04-03 07:14:26 +0000 UTC
Transparency always appreciated and totally understand why. Gotta pay those bills.... but I'm not 100% sold on those waifu cups. Fun as gag gifts but a bit weird at the end of the day. Definitely mixed feelings but wishing the best for your success
Louique
2024-03-16 04:00:09 +0000 UTC
That's correct
Josh Hayes
2024-02-25 13:59:34 +0000 UTC
Correct me if in wrong, but he has been sponsored by Arena Net (guild wars 2). Though only to make a long review of the game he's played for over a decade. The deal was "say whatever you want, we just want to be on your channel"
and.elf
2024-02-25 13:34:03 +0000 UTC
Promoting energy drink just when Poland banned them to all <18 seems like a weird coincidence. I'm fine with you promoting stuff you like. I trust your judgement and responsibility to us. As for gamer labeled energy drinks I have a strong negative attitude. Cheers
rufur2
2024-02-22 16:57:55 +0000 UTC
I appricate your transprancey.
I've no issue with the sponsorship, everyone got bills to pay. If the sponsor was an mmo company I would be a bit worried but there's no conflict of interest with you promoting an engery drink. My only other worry was that your reviews are getting intrupeted by ads but you already said that's not going to be the case.
Besides I already dislike engery drinks and waifu cups sounds kinda cringy, so I it's safe to say that you promoting these prodcutis will probably not affect my consumer behavior. XD
NTG
2024-02-22 11:19:21 +0000 UTC
I gotta say I am not a huge fan of advertising unhealthy stuff that enables people to sit on their asses for longer periods of time. AND I don't like Anime at all.
But if this does not affect the quality of your content go ahead and benefit from the sponsor.
S A
2024-02-22 07:21:18 +0000 UTC
I'm very torn on this, specifically the grody "anime waifu" aspect of the company, and will feel uncomfortable seeing adverts for that. I've been watching for a couple of years now and always liked how you seemed to call out and ridicule overt fanservice in games. Admittedly I only really watch your main videos, with the occasional bit of a stream vod, so I'm not part of the community here and know I don't have much of a say and that my opinions and feelings are just that.
I'm not going to go into much (I'm already dreading the reaction from others), but just putting myself forward as someone from this side to say that some of us find that objectionable and could influence us to unsub.
Naturally this isn't a personal judgement, attack, demand for you to change or anything else I'll be accused of.
Expressing this is very uncomfortable and I'm going to go and hide under the stairs now.
Saint_Redfield
2024-02-21 21:39:02 +0000 UTC
Thumbs up for transparency how you choose sponsorships. As long as you follow those two rules, im sure most of us are ok you taking sponsorships in future.
Jon Ijas
2024-02-21 17:28:25 +0000 UTC
Now we know why Josh will be drinking Blo'Hole Blast from his Waifu cup.
Grey Area
2024-02-21 16:20:27 +0000 UTC
I respect a well written and professional notification for what I consider to be a very minor change to what you are providing. I personally have no issues with unobtrusive advertisements in well-made videos that you provide. You will continue to receive my support and thank you again for providing good communication.
GallianMilitia
2024-02-21 15:32:04 +0000 UTC
I skip over most ads such as that. I'm talking about the image that will be appearing on the live streams for short periods of time. I've seen many streams that do that. I generally avoid those streams.
Chris L
2024-02-21 15:20:56 +0000 UTC
Thanks for the heads-up Josh! I personally have no issues whatsoever with this.
For me, hearing a content creator pick up a sponsorship is like hearing another tech company outsourced their call/support center overseas; it’s so common that I feel mostly numb to it.
That said, I’ve seen your take on sponsorships before and I respect that you stick to your personal rules when it comes to accepting these. You probably have the most community-friendly take on ads I’ve seen, and I consider ads for a product or business you personally endorse to be mutually beneficial. And even if you were to push some sleazy company, I honestly couldn’t fault you for it, since I’d like for you to be able to make your living doing what you do for as long as possible.
I know nothing about the company in question here, but they seem like a small, casual business with lots of lighthearted products. I’ll be taking a look, and likely placing an order for their ginger/turmeric tea as a test (I don’t drink caffeine anymore).
My only request is that you find some time to tell us specifically what you like about this company. I’d like to know what you personally recommend.
Good luck and keep being you!
AngryTheCarp
2024-02-21 13:38:09 +0000 UTC
Not the biggest fan of sponsorships in general, but I do understand how much they benefit the content creator, and if you are going to take on a sponsorship, I'd rather see Gamer Supps than most of the other sponsorships available.
So as long as these sponsorships don't affect the quality of your work or the authenticity/honesty of your videos, then go for it! I've put enough trust in your judgement up until now, so I'll trust in your judgement for this!
Only request I have is that you are more cautious of sponsorships for games, purely because they affect the authenticity of the reviews themselves (i.e. if you did a sponsorship for AFK arena saying how great the game is, I'd trust the other videos less), but seeing your rules in the message, I'm confident you'll make the right choices and only pick appropriate sponsors.
Silentstrike46
2024-02-21 12:29:17 +0000 UTC
I cant accept advertisements for cups my wife isnt allowing to replace our holiday tableware with
grmlfimmel
2024-02-21 10:46:35 +0000 UTC
Thanks for the transparency! I'm a bit concerned with the inherent sexism. I mean... the ad you linked is not exactly about the drink :D
I would worry about what that could do to your brand, but if you have this under control, I'm happy if it's working for you!
Blendiac
2024-02-21 06:21:46 +0000 UTC
Sounds just like what you've always said you would do and also have previously done, Josh.
Also, they do have some cute ladies on those cups.
Christopher Everett
2024-02-21 06:10:35 +0000 UTC
Obviously, until Josh actually does an ad insert, we won't know how it's being done. But I'm presuming it's a similar deal to what Kira (YT: kirareacts) does, which is just a 15-30 second mention and it's also at the end of his videos.
Christopher Everett
2024-02-21 06:08:17 +0000 UTC
Getting a sponsor you can get behind is awesome!! I'm happy for you! And I hope you get even more great sponsors in the future.
Marple
2024-02-21 04:26:20 +0000 UTC
First product I saw on their site (GOOD - 100 Servings) has a nootropic blend. Which are classified as a supplement.
Chris L
2024-02-21 03:07:26 +0000 UTC
I don't actually use gamer supps, bu that doesn't mean I don't think you deserve extra sponsorships or to grow. I like the rules you have outlined and I appreciate the ad free option you will offer. I personally will be dropping YouTube premium soon but I plan to support you for the long haul just like I have been.
Charmaine Likidis
2024-02-21 02:38:55 +0000 UTC
I know we all gotta get that bag, but just don't do the scammy Scottish land title thing, or NFTs lol. Keep up the great work. You deserve every pence
Alfred Correa
2024-02-21 02:33:15 +0000 UTC
Based
Alfred Correa
2024-02-21 02:32:11 +0000 UTC
Gamer Supps are caffeinated sugar free drinks, not supplements.
Wyrm
2024-02-21 01:31:18 +0000 UTC
I seem to be in the minority here, but I'm a bit disappointed in this. Mostly because I like your content because of the lack of inserted ads. I understand this is a natural progression of content creators though. You are by far and away (even with this sponsorship) one of the best quality content creators in many ways. I won't gush here in all the ways. But it's not a short list.
I am a bit concerned about supplements though. Many supplements have no scientific testing backing their claims. There are also lots of other reports showing that supplements sometimes don't contain what they're labeled to be. I haven't really looked into Gamer Supps. I generally stay away from supplements because of the before mentioned reasons.
I also don't care for placed ads in live streams. I pay for Twitch Turbo, many subscriptions on Patreon, and have a Nebula subscription. But inserted images into streams don't respect any of these ad free subscriptions. I pay for them to get away from ads, while supporting content creators that make content I love. I wish there were a better way, but this seems to be the only way that I've found. I also understand that trying to do a separate ad-free stream would be ridiculous.
All that to say, you taking this subscription won't cause me to leave or stop watching your content. I'll hold my nose, and still enjoy it for the most part. Not that me leaving would be a measurable difference. You've cultivated a wonderful community, and I look forward to many more hours of second screen content. Might be a third screen now though ;)
Chris L
2024-02-21 00:09:26 +0000 UTC
waifu mug?
Ben Pielstick
2024-02-21 00:06:12 +0000 UTC
Considering how many times you've mentioned them before for free, this is one where it's about as ethical as ads can ever be. :P
Billy "Dosbilliam" Inlow
2024-02-21 00:04:55 +0000 UTC
I can't accept that this is an appropriate sponsorship until they start offering a waifu *mug*.
Beefcake Colossus
2024-02-21 00:00:18 +0000 UTC
I actually rarely play computer games and have never played an mmorpg. I mostly spend my free time painting miniatures and playing tabletop games, boardgames and pen&paper rpgs. I am very much interested in computer games though since they have become such a big part of our culture. And your channel has proven to be a very informative and entertaining source. I very much appreciate your style and honesty and the fact that you don't waste your viewers time with stupid ads. In sofar, I'll see how the sponsored content develops. If you can weave it into your videos in an entertaining and unobtrusive way, then I'll be fine with that. The fact that you offer to publsh ad free versions for your patreons is also much appreciated.
Andrea Wille
2024-02-20 23:51:13 +0000 UTC
Thanks for being clear and honest with us, and explaining the rules you set for yourself, appreciate the transparency, I can agree it is probably one of the better sponsorships to take. I actually got some samples from them a while ago, although I personally use Sneak for my energy powered drinks for the moment, definitely interesting!
eFFecT
2024-02-20 23:50:49 +0000 UTC
I think as long as you feel safe to express yourself as you always have then this will ultimately be fine. But before making any kind of judgement I'll have to see a few ad spots over the next few months before i really know how i feel about it.
in short, long as it doesnt colour your content, I'm cool.
Womobo
2024-02-20 23:06:41 +0000 UTC
Congratulations! I’m glad that you were able to work out a deal that works for both of you. You make great content, I hope that more opportunities that feel right come your way 🎉🥳
Minessa Konecky
2024-02-20 22:35:05 +0000 UTC
Huh, interesting to know. Appreciate the info! Keep being awesome. You're being hella responsible with this sponsorship and got our full support on it.
Lykos Menon
2024-02-20 22:28:57 +0000 UTC
Yes please! 🤣
Sleepy and Full of Chocolate
2024-02-20 22:27:28 +0000 UTC
I am definitely not the target audience for those cups 😂😂😂😂. I would like a 2nd monitor content cup myself if we’re taking requests.
Minessa Konecky
2024-02-20 22:26:42 +0000 UTC
Ditto
Minessa Konecky
2024-02-20 22:24:26 +0000 UTC
Different creators have different levels of profit split %, i went for the lowest so i do not feel the need to be pushy or go hard sell.
Josh Hayes
2024-02-20 22:23:09 +0000 UTC
I have concerns, but so long as you're keeping to your rules I'm sure it'll be alright. Never used the product but it sounds as if it's not some scam company. I'll at least try their free samples.
Wandering Agent
2024-02-20 22:21:11 +0000 UTC
I regularly get gamer supps myself, so I'm completely fine with this. I'd love to see a Josh waifu/husbando cup down the road as well, so here's to hoping the sponsorship ends up going really well! I'll swap to using your discount code each purchase I make now, was previously using one from someone I don't frequently watch because a discount code is a discount code.
Question though, and if you can't answer it because of NDA or something, then no problem. Do you get anything for the use of your discount code, like a slight profit share or something? Or does it moreso just act as a measure of how widely your sponsorship was used and get you more with them in the future? Always been curious about how GS does that.
Lykos Menon
2024-02-20 22:20:00 +0000 UTC
Sooo, Josh strife demon waifu cup is possible?
Leonardo Schwarz de Souza
2024-02-20 22:19:01 +0000 UTC
I appreciate that you're being mindful in what sponsorships to accept, there are definitely some not great ones out there. However, I don't really blame anyone for making sure they have secure and diversified sources of income. So, while I'm grateful for how transparent you are in posting this, I genuinely hope no one criticizes you for taking a sponsorship.
I signed up to get the free samples and, while I made a rule a few years ago to not buy YouTuber or even franchise type merch stuff (I have a few tshirts that can never be worn in public again lol), I can't say I wouldn't buy a cup if one was made.
Nicole Wren
2024-02-20 22:10:24 +0000 UTC
I'm all for this sponsorship, but I have one demand and you know what it must be...
A well dressed Waifu/Husbando bursting at seams of an elegant waistcoat, mug in hand.
Jokes aside I think your handling on this is brilliant and I understand the reasoning behind taking it. Again I'm all for the decision you've made.
Jibber Jabber
2024-02-20 22:09:05 +0000 UTC
As I'm both a sup enjoyer and a Patreon of yours, I'm all for this sponsorship!
Arch_The_Protogen
2024-02-20 21:54:25 +0000 UTC
That's a very well thought out and written process. I don't see any issue with you accepting them as a sponsor, personally, but thanks for being so transparent!
Slade
2024-02-20 21:52:30 +0000 UTC
I am the Senate!
Redcloud
2024-02-20 21:49:17 +0000 UTC
As long as you're not taking a... problematic sponsorship (that is, you're sticking to your guns) I really doubt anyone who cares enough to sub to your Patreon will mind. Go get them dolla bills
Charles Richards
2024-02-20 21:46:50 +0000 UTC
Everyone wants a Josh Strife Hayes Waifu/Husbando cup. So, you know, we're ok with it.
Rolled Earth
2024-02-20 21:42:25 +0000 UTC
Jokes aside about the waifu stuff, a JSH cup or flavor or something like it would legit be cool. I'd buy it just to have it.
Vexillian
2024-02-20 21:39:08 +0000 UTC
Eeeeexcelent. 🙂
Sleepy and Full of Chocolate
2024-02-20 21:29:35 +0000 UTC
Yo Josh, tell Gamer Supps this: I'll buy a cup and try it out if they make a Josh Strife Cup. Can be a waifu, as long as she's dapper as all heck.
Kirzan
2024-02-20 21:27:51 +0000 UTC
You’ve got a very responsible and honest policy towards taking sponsorships, which I appreciate, but even putting that aside, I use GamerSupps too and also think it’s a good product. This seems like a no brainer and if it helps grow the channel, then it’s definitely worth it.
Argus9 (Jonathan)
2024-02-20 21:25:15 +0000 UTC
Waifu Hayes when?
PhaedraFlux
2024-02-20 21:21:45 +0000 UTC
I'm ok with it if they let you do ad reads drinking it out of a novelty mug
If i change my name to something clever then maybe someone will read it
2024-02-20 21:20:35 +0000 UTC
Waifu Cups? Is this what happens when you collect one mug too many?
BernardoRel
2024-02-20 21:18:37 +0000 UTC
They've said they might genuinely do that....
Josh Hayes
2024-02-20 21:18:11 +0000 UTC
I appreciate that you even took the time to write this. As long as you believe in the product, then you’re sticking to your standards, and I’m all about that. I will admit to being a bit suprised when clicking on the link and finding the waifu cups, but I don’t think I’m the target audience. If they end up making a JSH cup, however, I will make an exception. 😉
Sleepy and Full of Chocolate
2024-02-20 21:17:42 +0000 UTC
Josh, honestly you dont need to worry. You work incredibly hard to make good quality vidoes, and I trust you when you say you would not take sponsors you wouldnt personally vouch for. Keep up the great work
Cojalo
2024-02-20 21:17:30 +0000 UTC
Dont think you could handle the power of Husbando Cups
Mona'
2024-02-20 21:16:14 +0000 UTC
It's only fair, right?
TheNomad
2024-02-20 21:13:50 +0000 UTC
My thoughts exactly! 😏
Daria Anako Widermanska
2024-02-20 21:11:58 +0000 UTC
When will they make husbando cups 😭🙃😮💨
Redcloud
2024-02-20 21:10:39 +0000 UTC