Tuesday, June 17, 2025

The Pink Salt Trick Recipe



Pink Salt Trick Recipe

If you ever watch videos online, I am sure you have been bombarded with ads for the Pink Salt Trick for losing weight.  If you click on the ad, it takes you to another video that drags on for at least 15 minutes and at the end, it has not told you what you wanted to know, but they will if you give them some money.  You end up angry that you wasted your time and that you still don't know the recipe.  

Well, I promise not to waste your time in this article and I will give you not only one, but two recipes for making the Pink Salt Trick, along with the TRUTH about what this drink can do and what it will not do.


What Is the Pink Salt Trick Recipe Used For?

Pink Himalayan Salt is rock salt mined from the Punjab region of modern Pakistan. The salt often has a pinkish tint due to mineral impurities.  Those minerals are what make it helpful to human physiology.  Pink Himalayan salt contains more than 80 essential minerals and is used for a few different things to aid in overall health.

  • Helps in replacing electrolytes that are lost through sweating.
  • Helps digestion and gut issues
  • Helps in ridding your body of toxins.
  • Aids in better hydration.
  • MAY help in weight loss because better hydration can help raise your metabolism.


Pink Salt Recipes

The first recipe is the simplest, it only consists of two ingredients:              

#1

Ingredients:

  •  1/2 tsp pink Himalayan salt (fine dissolves faster, but coarse can be used)
  •  1 glass of warm water.  

Instructions:

  1. Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of pink Himalayan salt into the glass of water.
  2. Stir the water for at least one minute until the bottom of the glass is clear.
  3. Drink the solution in the morning on an empty stomach for best results.
This recipe is fine, but it is not much on taste, so if you want something that has a bit more flavor, the second recipe may be a bit more to your liking.


Pink Salt



#2

Ingredients:

  • 1 glass room temp bottled water
  • 1/4 to 1/2 tsp finely ground Himalayan pink salt
  • 1 tsp lemon juice, can used bottled or half a fresh lemon squeezed.
  • 1 tsp honey - this is optional but it sure makes it taste better!

The lemon juice is added to this recipe because it supposedly stimulates digestive enzymes, which aids in gut health.  The honey will add some calories, about 21, but it's worth it, trust me!


Instructions:

  1. Add 1/4 tsp Himalayan pink salt to 8 to 10 ounces of water 
  2. Stir the water for at least one minute until the bottom of the glass is clear.
  3. Add lemon juice.
  4. Add honey (optional) and stir until well mixed
  5. Drink in the morning on an empty stomach


Pink Salt Trick Recipe Ingredients



Other Ingredients That Can Be Added:

Coconut Water - for better hydration

Lemon Balm Extract - has calming properties and also supposedly aids in digestion.

Apple Cider Vinegar – Add 1 teaspoon for extra gut health support.

Ginger - gives an extra digestive boost


How Often to Drink the Pink Salt Trick 

For the first month you should take 1/4 a teaspoon of pink salt once a day, four times a week.  After the first month, you can up it to 1/4 teaspoon, daily, or 1/2 teaspoon daily if you work out or sweat every day.

Do not drink more than this, as too much salt intake can lead to health problems.  If you find yourself experiencing any of the symptoms below, cut the amount of salt you are using in half.

Dizziness
Swelling in extremities
Upset Stomach 
Daily headaches
Blood pressure that is higher than your normal blood pressure


Who Should Not Use the Pink Salt Trick

Sometimes your general health problems could make it dangerous for you to try the pink salt trick. If you have any of the conditions below, don't do the pink salt trick.

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Heart Conditions
Edema (Swelling in the Body)
 A Low-Sodium Diet Restriction
Kidney Disease
Chronic Water Retention

You should always consult with your physician before trying the pink salt trick, even if you are in good health

What the Pink Salt Trick Will Not Do

  • It will not make you lose 6 pant sizes in a week
  • It will not make you lose 50 pounds in two weeks
  • It will not make excess skin or belly fat disappear 
  • It will not treat or cure any medical conditions.
  • It will not replace drinking a healthy amount of water throughout the day to maintain normal hydration.

What the Pink Salt Trick can do 

IN SOME CASES, it can:

  • Help with digestion, stomach and gut discomfort
  • Help to replace electrolytes
  • Aid in detoxifying your body
  • Hydrate your body
  • May help you lose some weight by raising your metabolism thought better hydration.

So as you can see, the Pink Salt Trick is not the miracle cure to lose weight, but as with all things, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. 

However, after trying the second recipe for almost 2 weeks, I have found that I do have less upset stomachs and seem to have more energy, probably from being more hydrated.  I have also lost 2 pounds, but that could be from all the gardening I have been doing!  Who knows?  However, I am going to keep taking it, it is an easy thing to do, tastes good (#2) helps with my stomach issues and may help me lose weight......seems like a win/win to me!  If you try this, please comment and let me know how it goes!





Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Monday, June 16, 2025

LifePro Waver Whole Body Vibration Plate Review

Two months ago, I purchased the LifePro Waver Whole Body Vibration Plate with a great deal of skepticism. But I am struggling with my health and have been desperate to find some relief. Much to my surprise, it does provide relief.  I look forward to using my LifePro every night after work. I haven't found a cure for my pain and problems but I am sleeping better. I feel as though I've had a mini-massage in the comfort of my home each evening. That alone is worth the investment in the LifePro Waver.

image with text LifePro Waver Whole Body Vibration


Important:  I am not giving medical advice. Even if I wanted to, I wouldn't. I am not able to figure out my own health so I would not try to advise you about yours. Please do your own research about the claims made related to health and whole body vibration.

I kept seeing ads for various types of  whole body vibration machines. They all make claims about helping lymphatic drainage, improving bone density and muscle strength. They make claims about reducing inflammation and body fat. I found it extremely hard to believe these claims. But I was intrigued by the claim of improving balance.

Over the decades, I have seen physical therapists help children with balance problems. Sometimes that includes standing on things that are soft or things that move. Somehow, that helps the children's bodies strengthen and learn to balance. I have become very concerned about my balance difficulties after recently falling and smashing my head on the arm of the sofa. When I saw that the LifePro Waver Vibration Plate moves up and down, alternating side-to-side, I decided to give this vibration plate a try. 

LifePro Waver Vibration Plate information

  • Motor Type: Oscillation
  • Hz & Amplitude: 4hz - 12hz and 0 - 10 mm
  • Measurements and weight: 30.5" x 15.3" x 5.8" and 31 lbs
  • Claims: Lymphatic Drainage, Decrease Aches & Pains, Balance Training
  • Weight Limit: 330 lbs
  • Includes: resistance bands, power cord, remote control, waver vibration plate, LifePro mini bands
  • Current ratings on Amazon: 26,000+ reviews totaling 4.6 out of 5 stars

The premise is that you sit or stand on the machine and run it for 15 minutes (or more).  You can change the vibration from very light to harder and the remote control makes this easy when you are standing on the machine.

I have read studies that reportedly prove some health benefits. I did not take the time to delve into the studies to look at the reliability of the study and/or whether the research was done by a neutral party. I do know that I have felt decreased stiffness and increased range of motion after 15 minutes of vibration.  I look forward to sitting or standing on the LifePro and I sleep better after those 15 minutes. I can't say whether or not my balance has improved but I am very aware that my balance hasn't worsened. 

I have an undiagnosed health problem that runs in my family that includes joint pain, balance problems, muscle weakness, muscle spasms, neuropathy, and proprioception problems. I am always looking for relief. Despite my skepticism about the claims made about this machine, it has been a very good investment.  I seems counter-intuitive to me that vibration would help relieve neuropathy. But it does. Just sleeping better at night is a pretty big deal and makes this machine worth it to me. One final thought. I don't think I would recommend a vibration plate that doesn't oscillate. I don't know how, but I think that oscillating movement is important. 

LifePro website

LifePro Store on Amazon 




Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Sunday, June 15, 2025

Why YouTube Success Isn’t Just About Likes or Subscribers Anymore

Why YouTube Success Isn’t Just About Likes or Subscribers Anymore

Why I'm Writing This - YouTube's Algorithm Has Changed

I'm no YouTube expert, but I'm definitely a research addict. 

I've spent countless hours watching tutorials, reading articles, and just observing what works (and what doesn't) on my own channel, StumpedRiddles

What I've come to realize—and it might surprise you—is that the old metrics of YouTube success aren't the only thing that matter anymore. 

So, I thought I'd share some of what I've learned.


It's Not Just About Likes or Subscribers Anymore

We've all heard it before: get more subscribers, get more likes, and you'll grow. And yes, those metrics still matter—but they're no longer the whole picture. 

In fact, you can have a video blow up even if you have zero subscribers. I've seen it happen. The reason? Interest-based retention.


What Is Interest-Based Retention?

This is the real game-changer. 

YouTube's algorithm (which is constantly evolving) is getting smarter at feeding content based on a viewer's actual interests. 

It's examining search history, viewing behavior, and even the types of videos people finish and rewatch. The algorithm then pushes videos not just because they're popular, but because they match someone's interests

YouTube and much of social media are building their own version of TikTok's For You Page.

You might be thinking, "Well, if I subscribe to a channel, it's because I'm interested in what they have to say." Sounds logical, right? But surprisingly, that's not always how it plays out. Think about how many channels you've subscribed to, only to rarely—if ever—watch their videos again. We've all done it. Subscribing doesn't always equal ongoing interest or engagement.


How This Changes Everything

This shift means that the focus is less on building a massive following and more on creating content that resonates deeply with a specific audience. 

You don't need thousands of subscribers to make a splash. You just need the right video to reach the right people.

I've seen some of my own riddle videos gain more traction than I expected—not because they were perfectly edited or had fancy intros, but because the riddle struck a sweet spot in the interests of certain viewers. 

That's encouraging, especially for creators just starting out.


Niche Growth Is Slower (But Powerful)

Here's something else I've learned the hard way: niche content tends to grow more slowly. If you're not making videos in a massive trend space like gaming or beauty, growth takes time. 

I wrote more about this last week, but it's worth repeating—being in a niche like riddles means you're not trying to reach everyone. You're aiming for your people.

And that's actually a good thing. Your community becomes more engaged, and your content is more likely to be shared among people who genuinely care.


The First Three Seconds Matter (A Lot)

One of the most essential pieces of advice I've heard repeatedly (and am still trying to master myself) is this: the first three seconds of your video are everything. That's your hook. If someone doesn't connect with those first few moments, they scroll. Period.

So, I'm experimenting with ways to capture attention fast. Whether it's a powerful statement, a visual twist, or a bold question—I'm trying to start strong. Because if the algorithm notices people clicking away too fast, your video is basically toast.


New Ideas vs. Recycled Content

Now let's talk content. The internet is saturated with duplicate, recycled content. That's just the way it is. 

But here's something I remind myself of: even old ideas can feel fresh if you find the right angle.

That's what I try to do with StumpedRiddles. There are tons of riddles out there, sure—but I try to inject personality, humor, and a little twist. 

It's not about inventing a whole new concept every time. It's about presenting it in a way that feels new or different.

Here's my latest creation to spark interest - the creation of the Riddle Sisters! Four young ladies with different personalities reading riddles and competing for attention. Their names are "Pink-Haired-Patsy, Educated Ellie, Gentle Violet, and Wild Roxy." 

Here's Educated Ellie's most recent riddle post!



Final Thoughts (AKA What I'm Still Learning)


I'm still figuring all of this out, but I wanted to share these nuggets in case they help someone else. 

The biggest takeaway? You don't need a million likes or subscribers to be successful on YouTube. You just need a good idea, a solid hook, and a clear sense of who your video is for.

And honestly, I think that's kind of exciting.




Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Saturday, June 14, 2025

National Play Catch Week - A Holiday Review

This interesting holiday is held each year in the third week of June. Begun in 2018, the week always includes Father’s Day. Perhaps this is because of the age-old activity of kids ‘having a catch’ with dad. 


Boy catching a baseball



Playing Catch


When one hears the term ‘let’s play catch’, one might immediately picture two people with gloves and a baseball. But playing catch isn’t just for baseball. People enjoy tossing around a football just as much. You can also use a softball, a tennis ball or a soft rubber ball. Playing catch builds relationships, especially true of a dad playing with his child.


The History of National Play Catch Week


The inspiration began with Rhett Grametbauer, filmmaker, writer and passionate sports fan, in 2013. Rhett made an epic road trip in an old VW Bus to visit every one of the NFL stadiums in the U.S. He captured his incredible adventure in a documentary and a book entitled 25,000 Miles to Glory: Football, Freedom, Friendship, And America


While on his trip, Grametbauer discovered the simple joy of playing catch, simply tossing a ball back and forth with someone. Strangers he met along the way all seemed to enjoy getting involved in a game of catch. 


The iconic movie “Field of Dreams” with Kevin Costner centers around baseball and ends with the famous scene of Costner’s movie character asking “Want to have a catch, dad?”


Summary


So, get outside, enjoy some fresh air with family and friends, or even complete strangers at a park during the June Holiday of National Play Catch Week which begins on Father’s Day each year. The delightful pastime of playing catch can be enjoyed all summer long. 


Related Links:


Check here for more Baseball reviews 

Check here for more Holiday reviews


*National Play Catch Week holiday review was written by Wednesday Elf




Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Friday, June 13, 2025

Lap Desk or Serving Tray with Detachable Cushion Reviewed

Lap Desk or Serving Tray with Detachable Cushion
I prefer the comfort of my recliner to the straight back chairs at our dining tables or counter top, but I need a flat surface table top for paperwork and my smaller craft projects.  

Several years ago, I purchased a long, flat finished board that lays across the arms of my recliner to create a table top.  Unfortunately, it has no sides which limits its uses.  I recently went in search of a lap desk with sides and came across a serving tray that offers exactly what I need for paying bills, processing paperwork, and working on my small craft projects.  It even has an indention to keep a cup from sliding around on the table.  I use that recessed indentation in the top for holding pins and beads when crafting & my coffee cup when working on my paperwork.  It has proven to be perfect for my needs.

The lap tray I selected has a detachable cushion on the bottom of the tray which takes the full weight off my legs and serves to raise the height of the tray to a better position for writing.

 

Bamboo Lap Tray with Detachable Cushion

 Pickmesh Bamboo Lap Tray with Detachable Cushion Wood Bed Serving Tray - 16.9 x 13 Inch Wood Lap DeskCheck PriceI have several trays throughout my home, but none have been suitable for my lap writing desk needs until I found this lap tray with a cushion.  I hadn't previously considered how a cushion under the tray could make such a big difference.  The fabric on the cushion keeps the smooth tray from sliding around, plus it lifts the tray high enough to work on. 

The side handles allow me to easily pick up and carry the tray without disturbing whatever is laying on it.  Since it is so lightweight, I can grab the handles and stand straight up from a sitting position without straining under the weight to maintain balance.  

At 16.9 inches wide, it sits perfectly on my lap between the arms of my recliner.  Plus, the raised edges keep pens, craft supplies, silverware, plates, etc. from sliding off the tray.

I don't personally use it for "breakfast in bed", but I can see how it would be ideal for that use too.  Just as the cushion's fabric keeps the tray in place on my lap, I am sure it would keep the tray in place on top of sheets or bedspreads.

The cushion cover does have a zipper and the cover can be hand-washed.  I have not needed to wash my cover yet, but it is nice to know that I can when needed.

Of course, the cushion can be removed so the tray can be used for serving, if desired.  When we have company, I like being able to carry coffee and desserts to our guests without making several trips back and forth to the kitchen.  

 


 



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House of Sylvestermouse




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Thursday, June 12, 2025

Reviewing The Good Left Undone

 

Italian Village in 1940's

If you love historical fiction, like I do, this wonderful story of a grandmother near the end of her life will be one you will enjoy.  She spends time with her family filling them in on the family history and secrets from years gone by.  In this story you will also learn of history from World War II and what life was like in Italy, France, England and Scotland as told through the grandmothers' stories.

Adriana Trigiani has long been one of my favorite authors of historical fiction and she does not disappoint in this novel.

Story Summary

The story tells of the Cabrelli family, a proud artisan Italian family that live in the small village of Viareggio in Italy.  We are hearing the story told in present day by the family matriarch Mathilda to her granddaughter Anine.

The story begins pre-World War II when Domenica is a young girl who loves to help people.  We follow her through her struggles to become a nurse and the problems she encounters when she offers important information to a young mother.  The town does not approve of her giving the information and she must leave the town.  She goes to Marseilles France to work with nuns in a hospital.  World War II breaks out and she must then go to Scotland.

The book tells of strong women who are faced with ethical, love and family decisions. These women make decisions during difficult times that shape their futures and those around them.


Here is a link to the book on Amazon The Good Left Undone

Historical Fiction Books I Have Reviewed

If you enjoy historical fiction, here are a few other books in that genre that I have reviewed.









Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Wednesday, June 11, 2025

The Ruins in Which We Bleed ~ A Book Review

If I am given a chance I will always gravitate towards a great historical novel every time!  

Thank you Steve N. Lee for adding me to your pre-publishing review team!  This book is now available to you!  

The Ruins in Which We Bleed was a story that needed to be told!  There are many stories from the era of World War II.  All of them are full of courage, strength and undeniable spirit, especially when all the chaos is seen from the eyes of a 13 year old Helena!

At the beginning of the war, I think many of the Jewish settlements were in total disbelief that the Nazis could be so cruel.  Yet their hatred for the Jews made them capable of so many ways to abuse, torture and kill those they hated.

Dehumanizing the Jewish population and revelling in the power they had over these people made many of the Nazis into absolute monsters. 
 
The Ruins in Which We Bleed Book Cover

While I have read many books about the Holocaust and Historical Novels, this one really made me feel what our young Helena was going through. The Nazis were always looking for ways to make their lives even more miserable than they already were.  Food was scarce and watery soup kept many alive even though there was little or no nutrition in that food.  Money could not buy your safety or help meet any of your needs.  Sickness and starvation were a fact of life.

Helena is a fighter and will not give up easily.  She manages in this hell to maintain her spirit and compassion when others would have easily gone insane.  She is determined to get out of this alive and tell the stories of her family and friends to a world that needs to hear it the most.

The Ruins in Which We Bleed is a novel based on true life and I would suggest that you give it a place on your MUST READ list of books.  I highly recommend it as it is a page turner.  Even those who don't necessarily like Historical Novels, this one is sure to make you think again. 

Steve N. Lee has done a wonderful job of bringing to life the trials and heartaches, the unbelievable heroics and tenacity of some of the most vulnerable in the ghettos of Poland and beyond.  It is worthwhile to remind ourselves of the horrors that war will bring down on the human race.  

Now that I know you want this book, you will have to wait until June 12th, to get it!  It is a 5 Star book and deserves to be read by all! When you are finished reading this review remember to order your book so that you can start to read the pages that kept me up all night.  

This book is now available to anyone who wants to know and read more!  







Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Premier Protein Drink Review

 Do you consume enough protein in your diet? I know that I don't get enough throughout the day. I use Premier Protein Drink as a supplement.

Premier Protein Drink Review

How Much Protein Should You Have Per Day?

The amount of protein depends on your activity and body weight. 

Below is what I found from the Mayo Clinic Health System

If you're an average adult.
The recommended dietary allowance to prevent deficiency for an average sedentary adult is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight. For example, a person who weighs 165 pounds, or 75 kilograms, should consume 60 grams of protein per day.

The Healthiest Protein Options Include:

  • Egg Whites
  • Fish and seafood
  • Lean meats (skinless, white-meat chicken or turkey)
  • Low-fat dairy
  • Soy, nuts, seeds, beans, and lentils
According to the Mayo Clinic Health System, you should always try to meet your daily requirements with these whole foods instead of supplements.

After checking with my doctor and getting his okay to use a protein supplement, we found Premier Protein Drink at our local grocery store.

Premier Protein drinks come in a variety of flavors like Chocolate, Vanilla, Caramel, Cookies & Cream, and other limited edition flavors. Each bottle is compact, easy to carry, and requires no refrigeration until it is opened.

Here are the Nutritional Stats:

  • 30g of protein per serving
  • Only 160 calories
  • Just 1g of sugar
  • Low fat
  • Includes 24 vitamins and minerals
I don't use these to replace a meal, I drink 3 or 4 per week after a light lunch.

If you want to use a protein supplement, the Mayo Clinic recommends:

  • 2 grams or less of saturated fat
  • 5 grams of sugar or less
  • 200 or fewer calories
  • No trans fat or partially hydrogenated oils
The Premier Protein Drinks checks all of the above boxes.

Unlike other protein drinks that can taste chalky or artificial, I like the smooth and creamy taste of Premier Protein. I have tried several different flavors, but I always go back to my favorite, chocolate.

Always check with your doctor before using a protein supplement to ensure it's right for you.

For more Product Reviews, click here: ReviewThisProductReviews.com

You can find a large selection on Amazon if you can't find Premier Protein Drinks in your local grocery store.


Premier Protein High Protein Shakes Variety Sampler Pack Vanilla 11 Fl. Oz Each (18pk)Premier Protein High Protein Shakes Variety Sampler Pack Vanilla 11 Fl. Oz Each (18pk)Check the Price

 




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Monday, June 9, 2025

Paint Pouring Review

Love our local library for offering the Paint Pouring class! What a great activity for kids and adults for summer break (outside recommended!) The free class was full at an enrollment of 60 and a long waiting list. I can now see why!

paint pouring

What Is Paint Pouring?

Creating a painting using a fluid medium such as acrylic paint to create a design which is flowing and/or abstract and/or random. And there in is why it was such fun! Sixty participants equaled paintings which were undeniably unique with the only shared items amongst the painters were the paint colors and the stretched canvas. Acrylic paint is well suited as the consistency allows easy manipulation of the paint on the canvas. Watercolor and oil paint are not as forgiving.

Materials

We were provided a 5" by 7" stretched white canvas, choice of seven acrylic colors, four push pins and popsicle sticks. The push pins were inserted on the bottom of the stretched canvas in each corner to lift the canvas. The canvas could then be easily gripped or tilted once the paint was applied.

The paint is poured in any order or on any part of the canvas. Anything goes! 

The popsicle sticks were used as paint spreaders.  For my final design decision after a few wavers and wiggles I used the popsicle stick as a paint spreader for the background. The paint was applied then spread for coverage of the background. Acrylic dries superficially very quickly and then I added a few abstract stripes and dots which stayed on top of the background.

We were also provided an empty box to help transport the painting home to dry for 24-48 hours. As the workshop leaders learned after workshop number one at which a pouring rain greeted the painters as they ran for their cars with a freshly painted canvas. The box was great to safely transport the painting home and then to let the paint safely dry.

Summer Activity

Highly recommend paint pouring especially for those looking for a summer craft for their kids or grandkids. Also recommend paint pouring outside or in a craft room as the paint can wander.

Acrylic paint can be removed with soap and water, but the paint does unintentionally travel. We all enjoyed walking around the room to see what the workshop participants created and the variety was incredible. Variety of design, color, abstract to realist and all painted in an hour.

Amazing what participants could create in an hour with seven acrylic colors. 






Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Sunday, June 8, 2025

Is My YouTube Channel Growing? What the Research Actually Says

 

Is My YouTube Channel Growing? What the Research Actually Says

Is My YouTube Channel Growing or Am I Just Going Through the Motions? What I Found Out

Like many content creators who have committed serious time and effort to YouTube, I reached a point where I had to ask myself: Is this going anywhere? Am I building something, or am I just talking into the void?

After uploading hundreds of riddle niche videos and slowly gaining subscribers, I started wondering whether my pace was "normal" or a sign that maybe YouTube just wasn't going to work out for me. 

So, I did what many creators do when they feel stuck: I started researching.

What I found was a mix of relief, validation, and renewed motivation. 

If you're in the same boat, asking the same questions, here's what I've learned from digging into YouTube growth patterns, expert opinions, and honest feedback from others in similar situations.


Why I Started—and How My Goals Changed

Initially, my motivation for creating a YouTube channel was straightforward: I needed a platform to host short riddle videos that I could easily embed on individual pages of my website, StumpedRiddles.com

Initially, YouTube was just a functional tool—not a platform I had planned to grow.

But as I kept uploading and people started interacting—leaving comments, liking videos, even subscribing—I realized YouTube could be more than a support feature. It could actually become its own avenue for discovery, branding, and connection. 

That's when I started treating my channel as a long-term creative project.

Here's a Typical Riddle Creation For Both YouTube and My Website:




So… Is My Growth Normal?

At the time I asked myself this, I had uploaded over 400 videos, built several themed playlists, and reached 155 subscribers—with a 90.9% like ratio on my videos. Naturally, I wondered: Is this respectable? Should I be further along by now?

What I experienced isn't unusual at all. Here's what I found:


1. Niche Channels Grow Slower—but Stronger

One of the first takeaways that jumped out during my research is that niche content takes longer to grow

Whether you're posting riddles like I am, or offering tutorials, educational content, or deep-dive commentary, your audience is smaller by default, but often more engaged.

Unlike general entertainment or viral content, niche creators often build deeper connections with their audiences over time. 

The slower pace doesn't mean failure—it means focus.


2. Most Successful Channels Take 3–5 Years to Build

This one surprised me. I found multiple sources and creator testimonials suggesting that it can take three to five years for a YouTube channel to gain significant traction—especially without shortcuts like trending content, reaction videos, or influencer collaborations.

In hindsight, this made me feel a lot better. What I thought was "slow progress" was actually typical progress

Understanding that YouTube is a long game, not a sprint, shifted my mindset and helped me let go of some unrealistic expectations.


3. Consistency Builds More Than Numbers

I used to wonder whether uploading hundreds of videos with modest views was overkill. But here's what I learned: each video adds to your footprint. On YouTube, volume matters—but only if the content is consistent and aligned with your niche.

Evergreen videos, such as riddles or how-to guides, can attract new viewers long after they're uploaded. 

Some of my earlier videos continue to attract attention months after they are posted. I realized that every upload isn't just a performance—it's a deposit into your future visibility.


4. Playlists Aren't Just for Organization—They're Strategy

I'd built playlists on my channel mostly to keep things tidy—organizing riddles by themes like health, holidays, and emotions. 

However, what I didn't realize until I delved into the research is that playlists actually aid YouTube's algorithm.

They signal consistency and intent, guide the viewer's experience, and can improve watch time. 

Creating a series called The Riddle Sisters, with fun character-based riddles, also helped give my channel a personality—which matters more than I thought.

One of My Many Playlists:

What Am I Riddles For Adults



5. Engagement Rate Is a Quiet Win

When I saw that my like ratio was over 90%, I wasn't sure if that meant much. 

However, experts say that the engagement rate is one of the most important signals of viewer satisfaction. It may not skyrocket your subscriber count overnight, but it shows that the people who do watch your videos are finding value in them.

That told me I wasn't just yelling into the void—I was actually connecting with the right viewers, even if the crowd was small (for now).

So viewers could see that I'm actually a real person (lol), I created a playlist section where I personally read my riddles. Here's one of them from the playlist: I upload these as shorts:

What YouTube Creators Should Expect (and Accept)

Here's the big picture I walked away with after all that digging:

  • YouTube growth is often slow, especially in niche spaces.

  • Most creators see meaningful growth only after years of consistent effort.

  • Engagement and audience retention are more valuable than raw view counts.

  • Creating structure through playlists, themed content, and branding helps both your viewers and the algorithm.

  • Uploading regularly—without burning out—is more important than chasing virality.


So, Should I Keep Going?

That was the big question for me. And after reading what I did, the answer became clear:

Yes, I should.

If anything, the research validated that I wasn't behind—I was right on track. 

The hours I've put into editing, theming, scripting, and uploading are not wasted. They are foundational. According to the experts, they are precisely what a channel like mine should be doing at this stage.

Meet one of My Latest Creations From The Riddle Sister Series:




Final Thoughts: Questions Are Good—Just Don't Let Them Stop You

If you've been quietly wondering whether it's worth continuing, whether your results are "respectable," or whether your numbers are normal, you're not alone. 

I asked all those questions, too. And while there's no one-size-fits-all answer, what I found out is this:

YouTube is a long-term platform. Niche creators need patience. But persistence really does matter.

If your channel has heart, structure, and consistency—even with just a few dozen or hundred subscribers—you're already doing better than you think.


👉 Curious how all this looks in action? You can visit my channel, Stumped Riddles on YouTube, to see how I've structured playlists, themed content, and kept at it—one riddle at a time.




Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


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