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Sunday, June 15, 2025

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.”

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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.

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

25,000 Miles to Glory: Football, Freedom, Friendship, And America

25,000 Miles to Glory

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.

Friday, June 13, 2025

Lap Desk or Serving Tray with Detachable Cushion Reviewed

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.

Thursday, June 12, 2025

Reviewing The Good Left Undone

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.

Book Woman of Troublesome Creek

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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.

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!

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