Everything About Outdoor and Backpacking Content Creation and YouTubing with Devin Ashby

Devin Ashby is a full-time YouTube creator in the backpacking and camping space.

Check out his YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVyZtccA-oMchXHai-CJyPA

His Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/backcountryexposure/?hl=en

And His Etsy Shop: http://BACKCOUNTRYEXPOSURE.Etsy.com

He makes videos reviewing backpacking gear, camping gear, and trip videos. Devin started his YouTube channel in 2014 and has developed a system for creating videos efficiently. He also runs a shop selling bags that he makes. Devin discusses the challenges of filming in public spaces and how he handles interruptions from passersby. He emphasizes the importance of spending time with gear in the field before reviewing it and providing an authentic experience for viewers. Devin also talks about the balance between giving honest reviews and maintaining relationships with brands.

In this conversation, Devin and Jeff discuss the challenges and complexities of being an outdoor gear reviewer and content creator. They touch on topics such as the impact of free gear on the industry, the evolving landscape of media and influencer marketing, and the various revenue streams for content creators. Devin also shares insights on teaching backpacking and offers advice for aspiring outdoor content creators.

Takeaways

Devin Ashby is a full-time YouTube creator in the backpacking and camping space, making videos reviewing gear and sharing trip experiences.

He started his YouTube channel in 2014 and has developed a system for efficiently creating videos.

Devin emphasizes the importance of spending time with gear in the field before reviewing it and providing an authentic experience for viewers.

He discusses the challenges of filming in public spaces and handling interruptions from passersby.

Devin talks about the balance between giving honest reviews and maintaining relationships with brands. The prevalence of free gear in the outdoor industry can devalue the work of content creators and make it harder for the industry as a whole.

The compensation for content creators on platforms like YouTube is often based on the number of views, which can undervalue their time and expertise.

When balancing brand deals and product reviews, it's important to be transparent with the audience and establish boundaries.

Teaching someone to backpack involves trip planning, understanding gear requirements, and packing efficiently.

Consistency, authenticity, and enjoying the process are key to success as an outdoor content creator.

Subscribers and views don't necessarily determine success; it's possible to have a fulfilling and successful content creation journey with a smaller audience.

Sound Bites

"I make videos for YouTube in the backpacking and camping space."

"I also sew on the side if you want to."

"You're filming YouTube on a Wednesday morning? Shouldn't you be at work?"

"This gear is payment thing... doesn't pay money."

"We're still in the infancy of where the type of media... is so prevalent."

"Compensation is so focused on the number of views."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Devin's YouTube Channel

02:42 Devin's Multiple Income Streams

06:14 Transitioning from Climbing to YouTube

10:13 Approach to Gear Reviews

12:24 Challenges of Filming in Public Spaces

19:14 Balancing Authenticity and Brand Relationships

25:42 The Impact of Free Gear

32:24 Revenue Streams for YouTube Reviews

37:01 Managing Reviewed Products

39:11 Teaching Backpacking

43:19 Favorite Backpacking Locations in Utah

46:03 Advice for Outdoor Content Creators

Keywords

YouTube, backpacking, camping, gear reviews, video production, public filming, authenticity, brand relationships, outdoor gear, gear reviewer, content creator, influencer marketing, revenue streams, backpacking, teaching, advice