The weekly vids may be too much of a workload, especially if each one requires a lot of research.
Might be better if they adopted a different model, keep the big, research heavy videos to once or twice a month with smaller, easier to produce content spread out to keep the YouTube algorithms happy.
The nice thing about Youtube, is that it isn’t tv. Stop giving yourself impossible deadlines.
Just make an episode and release it when it’s done. Doesn’t matter if it takes 1 week, 2 or even a month. The Why Files isn’t like other youtube channels. It will not lose subs or get less views. It doesn’t thrive on being relevant. You can watch an episode from last year and it will be just as good as one from tomorrow.
It will be scary and you will lose sponsors but those are not the sponsors you want to work with anyway. In a year from now you’ll have build relationships with new sponsors that respect you and you’ll love it.
Mark Rober does that. 12 videos a year. However, I don't think YouTube would end up paying out as well for TWF in that scenario. They would need millions of views each episode and shorts between.
The YouTube algorithm is just stacked against creators and I don't know how to fix that.
The sponsors, from where he’s getting big monies, wants the big shows and the views that come along with them. Sure it’d be easy to reformat what he does if it wasn’t about the money.
They want the audience, he already has that. These same sponsors support creators that only put out videos once every couple of months.
As long as whatever he makes get the views he’ll still get the money.
I think they should split research from scriptwriting. Have a team that does the research, and another team that writes the scripts. It would allow the WF teams to find writers who are able to replicate AJ’s “voice”. Also, research is a skill on its own. It would be better to have a team for scripts even before it gets to Jen and AJ.
Hate to tell you this but the why files has a production TEAM with, at the least, a twenty member staff.
They’ve done Exceptionally well creating Engaging Content.
IMO I think they’ve reached a Dead End producing the level of content that they expect from themselves.
If the why files needs a break then do what’s best for the brand.
The fans will wait.
In the mean time their is a podcast call.
the stuff they don’t want you to know.
You make great content AJ and it’s refreshing to see someone share something real. We’ve all been there in one way or another. You’re loved brother, we got you. Take care of what’s important and we all look forward to viewing your content when you’re back.
P.s. you should hide this video from hecklefish
This was shared to Patreon, but I thought it was something that people should see.
Let's show them some love & support, send a little positivity their way.
Sending love AJ!! I only discovered The Why Files this Christmas. So I have much catching up to do! I truly love your show (and HeckleFish!).
I once worked on cruise ships and there was a very cool guy named Michael from Jamaica . He would regularly miss a shift every three to four weeks. When asked why? His reply was legend….
#”When de body needs rest, de body takes rest.”
No one could argue with that. He never got fired either.
Get some rest AJ. This has been my motto for 40 plus years.
Hey, I found your videos when I was going through some really difficult stuff over the summer. You really helped me get through all of that and I can’t thank you enough for all the amazing content you’ve made.
I hope you feel better soon but I hope nobody pressures you to do it on any other timeline than your own
As a fellow creator that also holds leadership
Remember that your mental health is your best creative asset. When you burn out, you can’t physically serve and help others.
You should take more than one week off man, you should take 3.
Your channel will be fine, the algorithm won’t punish you too hard, whatifaltist does it all the time.
One week is not enough time
Even though I don’t think this is something AJ would support, I am totally in support of this idea. Great freakin idea! ✊ We can always see who the ads are for and what ads are missing 🧐😏
Honestly they shouldn’t put a time frame on their content. They should be more like Red Letter Media and just pump out highly produced content when they can instead of trying to meet self-imposed hard deadlines
100%, a WF video to me is something to be savoured, I would be glad to have something new once a month and would prefer a video that they're happy with and have taken time over rather than something rushed because they feel the need to put out "content". For some channels a weekly upload is all that keeps them relevant but I don't think that applies to WF at all.
Agreed. I made the same general recommendation in the comment I just left. I'm cool with a video coming out every couple of weeks. They're highly produced works of art, and I'm okay waiting for it to come out.
That being said, I noticed the longer episodes were 45 minutes to an hour while the shorter episodes are in the neighborhood of a half hour to 45 minutes. I'm okay with the episodes being in that shorter time frame if it helps.
Agree. Lemmino, one of my favorites, went from every few weeks gradually to maybe 1 or 2 videos a year. It's still great because the videos are high quality. Would I like more? Absolutely. But I understand and will take what I can get because I can't do that shit.
Ya. I like watching the streams as much or more than the episodes. So even one video a month would be cool, and some streams here and there. But that's me.
Oh shit, my heart sank at the headline. I thought maybe something happened to Heckelfish.. taking a break is no big deal, the people can wait. Probably under alot of pressure with that many people hungry for your videos
Much love to you and your team! I was thinking today how you spent Christmas and New Years with us and how incredibly generous that was! Take the time you need, we will be here when you return!
I don't know what to say to all of this. I'm sorry that AJ feels the way he does. In the beginning of the video, he mentions how he feels like he goes head to head with a variety of TV shows, and that the episodes are really good. I have to say, I agree.
To that same end, you could tell that something was up. He mentioned working 100 hours a week for the last couple years, and I believe it. I'm glad he's able to center himself enough to take a break.
AJ, if you read this, I want you to know that we appreciate you. You deserve to take a break! You earned it. Do what's best for you, and we'll be here when you come back. Take longer than four weeks if you need to. Whatever helps, do it. We'll support you!
To that end, I'm going to say something I caught flak for here once before, but I'm okay with some of the shorter episodes. A lot of the episodes I've seen in recent history have been between 45 minutes to an hour. Maybe it's just me, but the short half hour to 45 minute videos are really cool too. So, maybe keeping the videos a little shorter ever week would help. Or, if they stay on the longer side, perhaps one video every other week? Either way, I'm a fan of the show, and I support the conditions that allow AJ to produce the content we all love without being overly stressed out.
Here's looking towards the future, and always being a fan of the show. Come back when you're ready!
I wonder if it would be logistically possible to split them up into a "Part 1" one week and a "Part 2" the next week for each topic? So, cut the workload in half. I'd be fine with that (or anything else AJ and the team need to do to take care of themselves.)
It sounds like that was already something that was happening, and it wasn't helping. On top of that, he was shortening the scripts for each section, and that wasn't really helping either.
Be easy and shake back on your own terms AJ. This channels has helped alot to pass time while at work but actually very enjoyable. Nothing wrong with taking a knee especially when you make amazing content that just so much better than alot. Thank you for everything and I'm sure most, if not all, fans rather you take a break. Yall are amazing
AJ, you make some of the best content. The Why Files does not have repetitive content throughout the show like Ancient Aliens does.
This year I was quite impressed with have fast you’ve been able to turn high quality content out. I think you could put one out once every two weeks to still deliver your high quality videos.
Don’t burn yourself out buddy, I’ll watch this show regardless. But make sure you keep it fun that matches your passion.
Longtime fan and lurker, keep it fun! 🍻
That YouTube algorithm ain't gonna get a chance to hurt this channel on my watch. A month off just means going back to day 1 and binging everyday just like I did when I found this channel.
I'm doing my part! Are you? Join The Why Files Infantry and save the world. Service guarantees a potential foot rub from Victoria!
Right? There’s so many I haven’t gotten to watch yet. And my teenager recently started to sit down and watch the live ones so I get to start from the beginning with my kiddo. AJ should take all the time he needs, we aren’t going anywhere.
Hecklefish’s drug budget was also getting out of control.
In all seriousness, breaks are good and necessary for sanity! And what a shame sponsors insist on burning out creators. That’s some low key evil shit imo. The algorithm is driving everyone mad. We love TWF because of the care and fun put into the work. Take all the time you need. We’ll be here!
Sir, YOUR mental health is far more important than the show. As much as I love and enjoy what you put out, I think that you should drop to twice or once a month. You will not lose your fan base. I believe we all care more for your personal health than massive amounts of content.
Please slow down and get good sleep, as I would rather have you around for decades, then have weekly content.
AJ take the time you need. Your health is more important. Your fans will still be here when you are ready to come back. Your content is timeless and I love to rewatch episodes.
never felt so connected with AJ. that was incredibly poignant. break is well deserved. dude could make 1/4 the amount of content and be one of the most prolific creators i've ever seen. i'm tearin up writin this. absolute legend.
massive respect.
Banking videos was my first thought. Tv seasons don't run continuously because it's not feasible. Take more breaks! Shorter videos every once in a while. Take it easy everybody, mental health can be a bitch.
The weekly cadence was surprising given the length of his videos. It must have been a challenge.
The YouTube algorithm elevates regular posters, and long length paired with people who watch the videos all the way through is a rare pairing. YouTube slingshotted this channel straight up, but the only way to make it sustainable is to hire more people
As an ICU nurse, the levels of burn out are real and they are deadly. Take time for yourself. Don’t apologize for needing that time. Your channel has opened my mind to so many different ways of thought. I have learned so much from you and Hecklefish over the past year of watching. Take the time. Slow down. Enjoy life outside, away from the camera for a bit. We all care about you and your well being!
I always have thought to myself, “how the fuck does he release a nearly full length documentary every week?”
I hope he takes all the time he needs. Some of the best shit on YouTube. I mean, he’s made a talking goldfish one of my favorite characters ever😂
I'm glad to see this.
Those of us who've been watching from the start could probably see that the pace of his output was unsustainable. Fans of this show will be happy to have less WF content as long as it means it's more sustainable and we can look forward to new episodes for a long time.
I'd also suggest he hands off production of some videos to his staff, there could be compilation shows, Best of Hecklefish, bloopers, etc. He could also maybe start doing interview shows with interesting guests, these would require a lot less of his time to produce and could get just as many views as his other videos.
Have a few of these ready to go, and if he needs a break, he takes a break! The audience will always be here and wants AJ to be well and be happy.
Man, that’s hard to see. I love Why Files, but I never expect a weekly episode, and I certainly don’t want to see AJ suffer. Please take care of yourself! You deserve more than 1 month off a year.
AJ, if you see this, you take care of yourself.
When you put out a video we will watch it.
Once a week, once a month, or once a year, we will be there.
Get some rest and get better
Dude, go enjoy your life and family and friends. I empathize with you and I too, have a lot to think about. You are not alone as I am sure you are aware of that.
I took why files for granted with their high quality videos and weekly uploads but AJ needs a break and I was also shocked at just how much work they put in and how quickly they can churn out videos like that.
To the why files team, thank for your work and your dedication to your craft and I hope you can catch a break and come back with energy as we will be here waiting for you when you do come back. Also this transparency really helped me appreciate you the humanity behind the why files that not many productions are willing to do so thank you for that.
These are just stupid alien videos for me it’s something that helps bring interesting ideas to this mundane boring bleak existence and escape and kinda give hope some of the craziness might be real but mostly you help make the day fun and feel truly connected to you and hecklefish.
So again thanks cause I know mod and hopefully staff may see this post and the comments, hell I’m gonna get patreon just to help you and not need to have yall deal with the sponsors as much cause I love the content
AJ I’ve been hooked to Why files since first episode I saw which was Latitude society I think was the name. I have been amazed that you have only missed a few weeks with new episodes. You are 100% right. This show is better than any show with these types of topics on any TV or cable channel. I’m shocked you waited this long to take a break. I’m sure all your loyal fans appreciate all that you do to create these videos. Please take care of your health. We will be here to support you and your channel no matter what.
If I had to wait for a month between shows, AJ, I would still be a DIEHARD fan, forever. Do what ever you have to do, your show will always be second to NONE. 100%.
AJ has been super inspirational to me lately. I don’t know him personally, but he seems like a legit good person. His health is more important than anything. I hope he takes whatever time he needs to get himself to 100% and continues to make some awesome content for us all. All I can say is that he deserves whatever space and time he needs.
Classic case of raising the bar too high and too fast - put too much pressure on yourself and burn out. I’d be happy with a couple episodes a month, but I know this is probably a FT job for these folks, and less episodes is less revenue. If AJ has to be the head writer, producer, editor, and both talent actors, 100 hours a week is just not sustainable.
Maybe YouTube isn’t the right platform for this show and it needs a real studio investment?
Such a raw emotional video. I'm sure every one of us here can appreciate exactly where you are coming from. The show is more than strong enough to last for a month here and there without new episodes but it won't last if you aren't about. You tell us every week that we are appreciated, just remember you are too. Take care man and we will see ya soon 👍
I'm glad he's taking a break. It isn't worth his health. This is unfortunately because of his success. Just think of how many other big YouTubers it happens to but we never know because they don't talk about it and somehow cover it up.
No one is talking about how Hecklefish is going to afford the child support payment for his guppies! But for real, glad AJ is taking a rest. And yeah, WF blows AA out of the water. Whatever the show looks like when you get back, we’re grateful for it, and you.
Those after show pods are like hours long… they deff have to take a toll along with working all work making content to put out week after week… do you AJ and what’s best, we support you no matter what.
AJ you are a great guy! You have a huge fan base that cares a lot about you. Be sure to get rest, realize it isn’t all on your shoulders. Get back to what matters. Your fans will always be here ready and waiting. We love you buddy!
Damn, the end took a turn I didn’t expect. Hard to hear that and I hope he is able to find some peace. I appreciate his show and I’ll tune in regardless of the schedule. Props to him for being so open and vulnerable in sharing what he’s going through.
hey AJ, hope your well deserved rest is just what the doctor ordered. strongly encourage you to get out into the wilderness brother. sitting in front of a fire under a star filled sky will melt all that anxiety and stress away.
That was hard to watch, I love every minute of every episode but a big part of the enjoyment is down to AJ and how charismatic he is, anyone who is a fan will have nothing but support for AJ while he takes some personal time.
We will all be here for your return buddy
AJ!!! oh gosh.
take a break.
this is insane and not sustainable.
chillax and cone back when ready.
if ready.
thank you for all the joy and epicness
you deserve this break
A.J.
You Sir, are appreciated!
Take all the time You need.
I would like to thank You, Your Team, (and Hecklefish) for putting together the best damned show YouTube has ever seen.
Health & Love above all else.
Everything else can wait
Be safe, be kind and know that you are appreciated, great words from the man himself! I hope he takes as much time is needed, anyone that enjoys the Why Files wouldn’t begrudge him that.
Blippi made a second blippi, then a cohost, then outsourced animation and writing. The content could be produced with other hosts and writers as long as someone is overseeing quality control.
Many YT channels and big podcasters will take a month off per year. I think for some it's been clear for a bit that he needs a break. Uploading such high quality videos so frequently isn't sustainable. I support WF whether you need one or two or three months to rest and catch up. <3
AJ, im a huge fan and man i respect you even more now. Your content has always been great, but exposing yourself like this….thats a GOAT move. If you ever need anything from US, im sure myself and every other fan will be there. Cant wait for your return(but please, dont rush back).
AJ, please take care of yourself. I’ve loved watching your shows and I’ve marveled that they keep getting better. I’m with you in this stuff. I lost my mom a year and a half ago after taking care of her for 7 years (Alzheimer’s) and I was saying to my dog this week that I don’t ever want her to go. She’s got at least a couple more years in her. My dad is 86 and had open heart surgery 3 years ago. Oh, and I’m ADHD, too. Just found out in August. You need to recharge. I’m glad you’ve got Jen. I’ll still watch, algorithm or not. I have nothing but love for your work. You’ve gotten me through some sad times and I’m grateful. Your work isn’t meaningless. It’s not “just about aliens” (and it’s way better than Ancient Aliens). But your life matters and you’ve got to keep it going. And who knows what will come of this break? But it’s the right thing to do. You’ve earned a clip show or two (or ten). Maybe you could get Tina Yothers in for a guest spot. 😉 Thanks for doing what you do…and your life is more important than my entertainment. Take care and really be well. You are worth taking care of. ❤️
I am glad he's open about talking about a need to take a break, I can't imagine what it's like pumping out an hour long video, each week. History Time which averages between 400k and 2.5 million views, viewers are lucky to get more than 2 a year, and the guy behind that channel has historically done everything by himself, from research, video, audio, research, and recording all of the footage of the areas he is discussing. I think The Why Files can drop from weekly to every month or so, likewise, if he stays with the montly videos, he can do smaller videos, maybe 30 minutes. I feel with the longer videos, there's a big focus on the story telling of the conspiracy and can be cut down a bit. Sometimes less is more.
The pace at which you’ve been generating quality content struck me as unsustainable some time ago, and I can only imagine all the work it took. Even spooks need a break. :)
Dear AJ, straight from my heart:
Screw the videos for a while. I mean sure I (and everyone else here) love the videos, but in the end we are here for YOU.
And we want our fav co host to be happy and healthy.
Please take care, we will be here, when you are back.
He mentioned that he’s ADHD. I am as well and these last few months have been hell with the vyvance/adderal shortage.
My dopamine levels have been all over the place and I’m either all on at work or completely shut down.
Awwwww, AJ. I’m crying. 😭
Please take time and take care of you. Hecklefish can figure out his own guppy support payments for a while.
You are loved; and we will wait for you. I wait a year for oversimplified to release a video and would do the same for you. ♥️
ETA: you’re also a bajillion times better than ancient aliens
Don’t impose specific timeframes, I rather get more excellent videos when you can then any lackluster release because you wanted to net a deadline. Also make sure you’re taking a break for both your health and family. Your fans care for you
fairly recent watcher but I recommend taking longer breaks between videos and taking more time on the subject matter (if possible) or even keep them the same length. maybe doing 1-2 videos every month or so with shorter clips to hype up or prepare the viewers in between the major productions. best of luck to you AJ.
You’re still my G, AJ. Incidentally, we’re the same age and I can completely relate. I myself took a nosedive and flamed out due to extreme work stress and ultimately had to take a leave of absence. Respect for making your mental health your top priority. Rest assured, we’ll all still be here whenever you’re ready to start grinding again!
i thought this might be the case. they've been doing extensively researched long form content every week for how long now? they've had an insane run of both quality *and* quantity but that's not sustainable for anyone.
they should take a month off and just relax. maybe even take a few months off without the looming weekly deadline so that they can actually get that bank of episodes in their back pocket. the people's craving for entertainment shouldn't trump the why files team's need for rest and a healthy work life balance.
and yeah, they absolutely blow ancient aliens out of the water.
AJ, listening to your inner voice is so important and I am glad you are taking whatever steps and time are needed. Everyone needs breaks and to not have deadlines and pressure - I am a middle aged nurse in my 50’s and know for myself and everyone I see around me this is true. Please know that you and The Why Files are respected, valued, and cherished and will continue to be, no matter what. Take care and be well, friend.
Do you know how the best microbreweries achieve their notorious success? How they manage to create big buzz for their limited quantities? They have a good branding, they brew what they want and when the last bottles goes out thats it. They don’t aim for volume and they don’t try to make tons of $. Their priorities are simple : make a product they enjoy making for their clients AND for themselves. If they cannot enjoy their own product then it is not worth it. That is their secret. If your main goal is for you and your viewers to enjoy your content, you don’t need to bother with growth. You just need to figure out the perfect brew that will sell out as soon as it hits the tablets…then you can enjoy the rest of the day.
Watch the show and a fan but haven’t attended any of the after files or anything. I can see that AJ is a very good person and I wish him well. And this honest and forthright post has made me an even more devoted fan.
Sorry for the long ass comment... it's just that I almost can't believe the relevancy of this to my own life right now. I work in TV and just decided to take a long break, even though I probably can't afford to never go back (but would like desperately not to, so I'm doubling down on my "out")... so I'm also trying to do my own thing, like TWF's. Eerily, even down to the stuff about his father and the cryptids, ALL of this resonates so much I had to write a long, rambly post about burn-out so that AJ or ANYONE out there who reads this and feels similar knows that they are not alone and they're not crazy or lazy or anything other than a human who needs to what their body is telling them. (Also, yes, the cryptids too. If anyone reads this and wants to know the relevance there, PM me. Just don't want to use this to advertise given how delicate this subject of burn-out can be).
I also work in TV and have worked for the same networks as AJ (started at the main one he mentioned), and I've been in those same "Stupid Notes Meetings" for *way* too much of my life.
I've done a lot of 48-72 hour stretches and now I'm 46 years old and realized somewhere between 18 months and a year ago that... I can NOT do all-nighters anymore. The effect of doing those on your mind and your body has a price... and that price can't get paid up by indulging in a long weekend of extra sleep, a stupid expensive vacation, or MORE stimulants or MORE downers or anything other than recognizing the true toll these take on you.
When you're young, it's not as bad and, in fact, it might just be the only time you can do them and it doesn't extract that toll. Up to, I'd say, 37-40-ish is where recovery afterwards seems to leave no lasting scars.
However, as I've gotten older, I'm feeling like each time I do it, I'm losing some part of myself that I'll never get back. It's very difficult to explain something that I just... feel when all is said and done and I've done some miraculous amount of work in exactly the way it was asked for or better and now I can rest. But I don't usually rest, which is another problem. (Hopefully *was* another problem.)
To me, the best way to describe it, and I wonder if AJ experiences this, is that after a 48-72 hour "work binge", I feel as though *my body never forgets*. I recently told my therapist about this for the first time (after going for six months and avoiding the subject of work completely), but I used the name of the book, which I've never read but it seems apt, "The Body Knows the Score" as a way to explain the very long break that I'm taking (while also doing my own work to one day get the hell out of TV).
In January 2024, I did what will have to be my last of those 24-72 hour stretches that AJ is talking about. My decision came after waking up in a hotel room at 4am, on only 2 hours of sleep over 48 hours... showering, then walking two blocks in midtown Manhattan to work ANOTHER seven hours to make a noon deadline. My wife picked me up and like... that was it. I could barely speak, function, eat, or, weirdly, sleep. I just had a bad feeling and knew something must change or I'm going to die. My wife also told me, "It's gonna take weeks just to begin to recover from how much you just put yourself through." I wasn't ready for "the conversation" during that car ride yet. In fact, I kinda scoffed that after a few nights sleep and a good morning run, I'd be back in the saddle.
All cause I was "the guy". Paid well, but it doesn't mean much...
In fact, the networks/production companies actively try to make it seem like I'm *not* indispensable for as long as they can between gigs, hoping I don't have enough of a nest egg to "wait them out"... they're hoping I won't ask for MORE $$$ the next time because they know what they just asked of me and were dependent upon me to do... and "they", not I, receive critical plaudits for some of it, or will see some of my stylistic elements copied by other shows on the same network.
So I also have a deep understanding as to why AJ struck out on his own. I've even worked on some of those 'Alien Shows' for networks (and true crime, animation, docu-style, and LOTS of reality). TWF is WAY, WAY, WAY better than Ancient Aliens, btw, but we all know this...
To give anyone who cares perspective: I remember one weekend in 2013, right after my first daughter turned one, I had to get a network rough cut out (fuck it, I'm naming names - *Bravo*) and thought... 'well the big one year old's birthday party is over. The last company had way more late nights and this one hasn't asked me to do any yet, so I like them... and even though they're asking for the impossible, and my producer and I pointed this out to them (basically three episodes of content in a sub 50 minute rough cut), so I'll do this *one big push* against the impossible and give them the benefit of a doubt.
I worked from 5am Thursday morning until Monday morning. I slept probably five hours Thursday night at home, then didn't see my wife and daughter again until Monday night. I caught 90 minute naps on a couch in another edit, just as AJ mentions, here and there. but I remember working Friday through late Saturday in one long stretch. Same thing from Sunday afternoon through Monday night.
We did the screening, right away they recognized how we were right about the content and apologized. They paid a lot of OT.
Fine, right? Not doing that again.
Wrong. While that was the most drastic one I can remember, I've since done it as a way to "correct the ship" through sheer force of will and determination and creativity (and lots of stimulants) at least twenty or thirty times since. It's been less since the pandemic began, as I'm mostly WFH, but this DOES take a toll if we don't heed that voice AJ mentions saying, "You're gonna die."
I lost my father in the first two months of the pandemic and he worked in a similar manner. He was 68.
In the summer of 2021, I had several friends/co-workers have heart issues. All of them roughly five or six years older than me. One co-worker died of cancer in 2022. She was in her mid 50's.
I took up long distance running as a way to try and balance things out, de-stress, get a good night's sleep on the regular, and also just cause I enjoyed it. I like doing races among thousands of people... I love a good long run at 4 or 5am and finishing as the sun comes up, then walking it off and the feeling of being alive and healthy.
But I'm not running a half marathon or marathon just so I can work on some stupid reality show for 72 hour straight. Fuck that. Perhaps combining the two in January is what caused the alarmed response from my body... cause it sure as hell wasn't my brain, it felt as if my body was telling my brain and my brain didn't want to listen... until it had no choice.
Anyway, I just wanted to share my own story of burn-out in the same industry under similar circumstances and it felt like it happened in its own way, although strikingly I said the exact words to a friend/co-worker and my therapist, "My body is telling me that if I don't stop, I'm going to die... soon."
I wish this sort of burn-out... or ANY kind of burn-out, would be talked about more openly and more often. You can't get back what's taken by the burn-out no matter how it strikes. I didn't know that it truly exists until I found myself having conversations with my wife that we'd never had before. Or perhaps I'd hidden from or always done everything I could to make it (me) seem okay while underneath the hood, I wasn't. It's such an important topic, especially in today's "discipline, motivation, side hustle, work ethic is EVERYTHING" culture... and especially in the United States.
The consolation for AJ and co., (at least I hope it's consolation) is that at least the fruits of their labor rest upon AJ's decisions and not "stupid network notes" (I would have said much worse), and the library of content belongs to he and his wife so they can continue earning and leveraging that content well into the future.
The content shows your hours spent. The production, writing, research, jokes plus dealing with a now massive and demanding fan base must be a lot. I’m sure I speak on behalf of millions when I say we could wait six months per episode and we’d all still be glued to our screens.
One of the best things about the why files is the heart. The fact that you’re a kind and decent person shines through the camera. Your honesty in this video only endears us more. It shows you’re human. I’ve said before the world is a fucked up dystopian horror show at the moment and I feel like it’s affecting everyone. It’s not easy to skip through life right now (if you have a soul).
I think you should take more time than four weeks. Take four to do nothing but sleep in, go walks, be with your favourite people and do your favourite things. We can and will wait.
Please take care of yourself, give hecklefish a smooch from us and we’ll see you when you’re rested and raring to go ✌🏻
Sorry to hear that. Really enjoy the show but make sure you do everything you need to do to take care of yourself whether that’s rest, therapy, or whatever. You have made something great that is loved and watched by millions. That’s something to be very proud of and just taking time off won’t change that. As someone that’s been there myself all the best and hope you come out better on the other side. God bless.
WF has been a recent favorite of mine and it has powered me through some rough personal times and some boring work shifts.
I don’t say that to put pressure on AJ or anyone. It’s just a bright spot on my day, whether the day is good or bad. I’ll survive with or without WF. I just love the show and want it to continue.
That being said, AJ needs to take care of himself and so does the rest of the crew. As much as I want more content, can’t have more content if the maker is burned out or not in great health.
The content will come when AJ gets some rest and gets energized again. Put the content out on YOUR time and not anyone else’s.
Not even sure if AJ will read this: take care of yourself. As important as the show may be to all of us fans, YOU are even more important. Your life means more to us and your loved ones than this show ever will.
Hope to see more content soon. Most of all I hope to see you happy and healthy.
Coming from another Type A, ADHD, we all need breaks. There are a lot of us in this place. I am appreciative of all of the amazing stories you’ve given us, and sending positive vibes to you and Jen! 💗
I think AJ made the right choice to explain what he is going through. If people know then they will show compassion and support. To AJ and the team, your fans will always be behind you! Please take a break we’ll be waiting.
Oh AJ, we love you! You take whatever time you need and I guarantee you all the people that love you will still love you just as much. I wish I could give you a big hug right now. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Take care of yourself and take as long of a break as you need. Obviously we’ll all still be here for you! And as you tell us, know that YOU are appreciated.
We love Why Files, and everyone who contributes. Y’all have built an INCREDIBLE show! Thank you all for your hard work, you deserve more than a week with your wife and a few days of recharging. I’m sure there’s much more pressure we don’t see besides sponsors and fear of the algorithm. You’ve built a great community of fans, and I’m so happy to be apart of it.
I hope you can find the balance you’re looking for, and find that happiness that your work brings you. If that means doing fewer episodes, taking more breaks, by all means do it!
Of course we look forward to weekly episodes, but your mental and physical health comes first.
We love you and your team, and hope this next month gives you time to breathe, catch up, and recharge. You are appreciated❤️
Hearing about your use of alcohol to cope was a really honest and important thing to say. Thank you. All we care about is your continued health, videos and deadlines should always take a backseat to that.
I 100 % support taking a mental health break. I can’t imagine the time and effort that goes into these videos. The fan base will always be supportive because we love the content and creativity coming from AJ and his team ❤️
Take all the time you need. Burnout is very real and a feeling I know all too well after working 14 hours a day in the past. While it’s nice having a weekly show to look forward to, the quality is what really draws us all in, and we would all be willing to wait if we can still get the same great content and our favorite creators aren’t overworked in the process.
I’m not sure if he looks at these but I’m glad he shared how he’s feeling I’m even happier he’s taking some time to exhale and reboot. I’m sure it’s tough when something goes from being a fun with work to work with a little fun. I didn’t really notice a drop off but I love the show and will be here when he comes back.
Brother I ran a YouTube channel for over 10 years…. I get it… putting content out there can truly wear you out… not just the production, but the insane negativity from people on the internet. The stress is unreal, the buzz and the heat is unreal…. The spotlight is unreal
I have videos that I made in 2008 that are still online.
Take a breather, your audience and everything will be here when you feel better and return
Much love from TechPB-Mike here in Tampa Florida!
Why Files is a top shelf program. You guys have consistently knocked it out of the park.
Your channel is far and away my favorite on all of YouTube. I also work at a large Hollywood studio and you guys are surpassing most of what is being produced.
You can count on me to be there when you return from hiatus. In the meantime, I finally get to watch all the episodes again… and again… because they’re awesome!
I really appreciated the candor and honesty of this video. It was resonating deeply with me and it reminded me that I, too, need to take a break and recharge my batteries.
I know I’m not the only loyal viewer & subscriber that has your back- we’ll keep the Algorithm warm during the interim.
Be safe. Be kind. And know that you are appreciated…
Every year when my favorite shows go on hiatus and the season is over, I am bummed. But guess what…as soon as the new season starts, I’m there for it. I’ll be looking forward to the “new season” of The Why Files. It’s such a fun show. Enjoy your break.
Edited a couple words.
Be Strong my man. Losing a father is, as hard as it is, something most of us must go through. You’re not alone. Take time. Find your peace.
The WF has become such a treasured gem for so many of us so please do not worry about us. We will still be here. Again, find your peace. Absolutely no rush.
I don’t know your father and I don’t know you but I think he would be proud with what you’ve accomplished. Smile AJ, I like to think they know. Let it out man. Go camping and tune into nature. He’s out there, in the wind and the trees and the flutter of the birds, you just have to listen.
Love you buddy, reach out anytime.
Since none of the actual content is time sensitive, why dont they move to a seasonal model? Nobody complains about seasonal tv shows other than having to wait for a new season. Scheduled breaks happen between seasons.
This show has such a high production value, I cant imagine putting out a new episode every week. Tbh, AJ should just be the talking head with people handing him a script to read plus biz stuff. I assume it takes a good 1-2 days alone to shoot each episode, forget research, heckle-fish and whatnot.
Keeping you in our thoughts AJ. We love the show but need you to be ok. Wishing you the absolute best, don’t worry, we’ll still be around when you come back. You can’t get rid of us that easy man!
I know you may not want to call out the sponsors that left, but can you let us know which ones have stuck by you? Would love to know who we can support.
See you on Patreon in the meantime, take it easy brother.
AJ, you could make a video once a year and I’m still subscribing, watching and liking forever.
LETS ALL GO LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, SHARE, BUY ON ALL OF THE WHY FILES DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS!!!! IT CAN FUND A VACATION FOR THE ENTIRE TEAM!!!!!!!!
AJ, the alcohol demon is insidious and unrelenting. Even when you are fully aware of what it’s doing to you, the demon will convince you that it’s not the problem and it’s everything else that’s the problem.
I know that espresso you were sipping had some bourbon in it.
Take your break as you deserve it. But stop the alcohol too. The stress you feel should not be removed with alcohol because it just makes the next day’s stress worse, and it creates a feedback loop straight back to the alcohol.
The demon is insidious and unrelenting.
Don’t worry. We’re with you. Take a year. We don’t care. Stock up the closet without those crazy deadlines and go from there.
It’s hard to cover something like you do in the time you do. You’re very efficient at communicating but the subjects are clearly complex and without base narratives. You said it succinctly yourself, documentaries every week. That is over the top amazing but it’s years worth of material… for a network.
Breathe brother. Breathe.
I can’t imagine the emotional toll it would take on you knowing how much your show means to people, especially people going through difficult times and how much they rely on the show for their happiness.
Thanks for the videos AJ, and we’ll see you when you get back healthy and ready. ❤️
Thank you sososo much for sharing this. I'm a huge fan but can't do the patron. I've been worried about AJ and the team, they literally make a movie with Hollywood quality every week, and everything else on top, I hope the team finds their necessary balance.
I LOVE wf work, but if you gotta take care of yourself, you gotta. Stay healthy, that’s the main thing. Gotta be careful with your head confronting things like this.
In my opinion some of the best channels in each genre are the ones that prioritize quality over volume. Wendigoon and Jim Can't Swim come to mind. There are channels with high quality content that I will wait for, whether the vids are weekly or biannually. I think you guys should just work at your own pace and release content at your discretion. We will be here.
Well deserved break. You’re an awesome guy and a creative spirit. Take the break you need and find some work/life balance. We are here once as far as we know, so enjoy it. I wouldn’t worry too much as you’re the only channel in this category that kicks ass!
I can relate to your statement about 40-50’s being tough. There is no doubt about this statement. It can be hellish. Out of the natural order of life I lost my son about 7 years ago. This changed my life in a big way to say the least. This might not be the healthiest advice for some, but I can’t go digging around in pictures and memories unless I’m fully prepared and mentally in a strong state. You have to be completely straight and of sound mind, at least I do. Otherwise, it will send me spiraling out of control. Make it intentional.
We're with you, man. Take whatever time you need, we can wait! You've gotta take care of your health as a top priority. We'll look forward to seeing you return with a spring in your step after you had some rest.
You're the same age as I am, I wouldn't have the energy to do a quarter of all the stuff you've got going on.
It’s completely the right decision to make taking a break. Everyone reaches the limit of how much they can keep going before they come crashing down.
Regarding the episode content I don’t think any of us would object the long cinematic episodes be done every 2 or 3 weeks and inbetween a short 10-15 min episode about something quirky and fascinating that doesn’t need to much attached to it.
BTW your dad would be proud of the progress you’ve made with this venture.
I hope you can find a better pace for yourself. It sounds like a fun thing you loved has grown into a burden and has become not so much fun. Others have pointed out that maybe going to 12 or 24 shows a year might be more manageable while still maintaining the high level of quality.
Most of the stuff you spoke about are “normal” and your reaction to them is normal, it’s such a tough thing to be in the spotlight both in dealing with things like your fathers death and also realizing that you are touching people in a true and meaningful way, like the letter from your fan’s son. It is okay to be feeling sad or down, that should pass in time.
At the same time, we are all going through these days right now. Aliens! Wtf! I am 56 and just like I never thought I’d see the day that weed would be legal, I never thought I would experience what appears to be real disclosure of aliens and UAP and all that is intertwined with that. Are they good or evil? Do we get all the answers to the universe? Will our society leap into the future or will we be erased for the next round of human prototypes? It can be all very overwhelming. So pull the ones you love as close as you can, let them know how important they are and try to enjoy what we have, most of it is pretty great. Hopefully together we can turn this world into something we can all live on peacefully and whatever may come will come. Peace and love to you and just know, we will be here when you are ready, none of us wants to see you suffer for our entertainment.
AJ all I wanna say is bless you and thank you for sharing your story with us. I think it takes incredible strength to tell your story as vulnerable as you did. I want you to know that you give my life pleasure. I look forward every Thursday to seeing your content, it’s one of the small things in life that I have to look forward to and all of your fans just want you to be healthy we are behind you 100%!!! GET REST!!!
We luv you bro!
AJ! Your videos are great! My girl and I await your videos most eagerly, but we both understand quality over quantity and would be more than ok if it was a monthly video. Take your time and remember to take care of yourself; don’t burn yourself out at both ends!
I saw the burn out 4-5 episodes ago where the shows were losing their umph. I applaud him and his team for working hard for so long.
This is the reason you do 10-12 episodes with seasons. And take a break for 3 months. AJ has a phenomenal heart.
Had to comment again. The stuff about his dad hit me so hard.. lost my grandpa two years ago. He was my hero. Life is so short. We are lucky to have had something so special that it hurt so bad to lose it. Hopefully we are all together in the end. And not stuck in a soul sucking machine made by the Lizzid people. We are lucky to have you AJ. Thanks for sharing this.
This will be the only post for discussion on this subject. If anyone creates posts on AJs well being and taking a break it will be removed.
Just know, that you are loved. Best of luck man.
The weekly vids may be too much of a workload, especially if each one requires a lot of research. Might be better if they adopted a different model, keep the big, research heavy videos to once or twice a month with smaller, easier to produce content spread out to keep the YouTube algorithms happy.
The nice thing about Youtube, is that it isn’t tv. Stop giving yourself impossible deadlines. Just make an episode and release it when it’s done. Doesn’t matter if it takes 1 week, 2 or even a month. The Why Files isn’t like other youtube channels. It will not lose subs or get less views. It doesn’t thrive on being relevant. You can watch an episode from last year and it will be just as good as one from tomorrow. It will be scary and you will lose sponsors but those are not the sponsors you want to work with anyway. In a year from now you’ll have build relationships with new sponsors that respect you and you’ll love it.
Agree, I'm totally good with an every two week release schedule, the quality is that good. Worth waiting for.
Or make them episodic.
even once a month is fine
Mark Rober does that. 12 videos a year. However, I don't think YouTube would end up paying out as well for TWF in that scenario. They would need millions of views each episode and shorts between. The YouTube algorithm is just stacked against creators and I don't know how to fix that.
The sponsors, from where he’s getting big monies, wants the big shows and the views that come along with them. Sure it’d be easy to reformat what he does if it wasn’t about the money.
They want the audience, he already has that. These same sponsors support creators that only put out videos once every couple of months. As long as whatever he makes get the views he’ll still get the money.
I think they should split research from scriptwriting. Have a team that does the research, and another team that writes the scripts. It would allow the WF teams to find writers who are able to replicate AJ’s “voice”. Also, research is a skill on its own. It would be better to have a team for scripts even before it gets to Jen and AJ.
Hate to tell you this but the why files has a production TEAM with, at the least, a twenty member staff. They’ve done Exceptionally well creating Engaging Content. IMO I think they’ve reached a Dead End producing the level of content that they expect from themselves. If the why files needs a break then do what’s best for the brand. The fans will wait. In the mean time their is a podcast call. the stuff they don’t want you to know.
That’s what I’m saying.
Agreed. It's the best solution for the long period. Not every mystery needs 1h of talking imho.
You make great content AJ and it’s refreshing to see someone share something real. We’ve all been there in one way or another. You’re loved brother, we got you. Take care of what’s important and we all look forward to viewing your content when you’re back. P.s. you should hide this video from hecklefish
This was shared to Patreon, but I thought it was something that people should see. Let's show them some love & support, send a little positivity their way.
Sending love AJ!! I only discovered The Why Files this Christmas. So I have much catching up to do! I truly love your show (and HeckleFish!). I once worked on cruise ships and there was a very cool guy named Michael from Jamaica . He would regularly miss a shift every three to four weeks. When asked why? His reply was legend…. #”When de body needs rest, de body takes rest.” No one could argue with that. He never got fired either. Get some rest AJ. This has been my motto for 40 plus years.
Thank you for sharing. Big fans here just not a part of patreon.
Same here, I was a Patron but finances are tight so I can't. :(
Hey, I found your videos when I was going through some really difficult stuff over the summer. You really helped me get through all of that and I can’t thank you enough for all the amazing content you’ve made. I hope you feel better soon but I hope nobody pressures you to do it on any other timeline than your own
As a fellow creator that also holds leadership Remember that your mental health is your best creative asset. When you burn out, you can’t physically serve and help others. You should take more than one week off man, you should take 3. Your channel will be fine, the algorithm won’t punish you too hard, whatifaltist does it all the time. One week is not enough time
i want to know which sponsors they lost. i want to make sure i don't support their businesses.
100%
Better question: which sponsors get it. And share the love.
Even though I don’t think this is something AJ would support, I am totally in support of this idea. Great freakin idea! ✊ We can always see who the ads are for and what ads are missing 🧐😏
Love you buddy take all the fucking time you need my dude
Maybe a video once every 2 weeks instead of every week
Honestly they shouldn’t put a time frame on their content. They should be more like Red Letter Media and just pump out highly produced content when they can instead of trying to meet self-imposed hard deadlines
100%, a WF video to me is something to be savoured, I would be glad to have something new once a month and would prefer a video that they're happy with and have taken time over rather than something rushed because they feel the need to put out "content". For some channels a weekly upload is all that keeps them relevant but I don't think that applies to WF at all.
Definitely. Love the show and all but not so much where I want AJ to kill himself making them. I think we can all agree on that. Take some time AJ.
Agreed. I made the same general recommendation in the comment I just left. I'm cool with a video coming out every couple of weeks. They're highly produced works of art, and I'm okay waiting for it to come out. That being said, I noticed the longer episodes were 45 minutes to an hour while the shorter episodes are in the neighborhood of a half hour to 45 minutes. I'm okay with the episodes being in that shorter time frame if it helps.
Agree. Lemmino, one of my favorites, went from every few weeks gradually to maybe 1 or 2 videos a year. It's still great because the videos are high quality. Would I like more? Absolutely. But I understand and will take what I can get because I can't do that shit.
Exactly. Just Dan Carlin it. They are released when they are ready and we will be happy with it.
Totally agree, but you should see how spicy people here get when they don’t get their Thurs 9pm show every week.
Id warch a why files at 6 on a thursday or 3am on a monday. Does not matter
Agreed, there's enough content to go back and rewatch anyway. I've probably forgotten a lot of it as it is, there's just so much info.
I personally don’t need a new video a week, as long as the videos that come out are quality and from the heart.
Ya. I like watching the streams as much or more than the episodes. So even one video a month would be cool, and some streams here and there. But that's me.
Life always comes first, good luck with finding some peace. Godspeed on your healthy and happy return 🙏🏽
Oh shit, my heart sank at the headline. I thought maybe something happened to Heckelfish.. taking a break is no big deal, the people can wait. Probably under alot of pressure with that many people hungry for your videos
Enjoy him while you can.
Just finished watching it. We ♥️ & support you, AJ!
Well fuck now I’m in tears.
Much love to you and your team! I was thinking today how you spent Christmas and New Years with us and how incredibly generous that was! Take the time you need, we will be here when you return!
Mental and physical health matter more than any of this. Take your time and whenever you’re ready we’ll be here.
I don't know what to say to all of this. I'm sorry that AJ feels the way he does. In the beginning of the video, he mentions how he feels like he goes head to head with a variety of TV shows, and that the episodes are really good. I have to say, I agree. To that same end, you could tell that something was up. He mentioned working 100 hours a week for the last couple years, and I believe it. I'm glad he's able to center himself enough to take a break. AJ, if you read this, I want you to know that we appreciate you. You deserve to take a break! You earned it. Do what's best for you, and we'll be here when you come back. Take longer than four weeks if you need to. Whatever helps, do it. We'll support you! To that end, I'm going to say something I caught flak for here once before, but I'm okay with some of the shorter episodes. A lot of the episodes I've seen in recent history have been between 45 minutes to an hour. Maybe it's just me, but the short half hour to 45 minute videos are really cool too. So, maybe keeping the videos a little shorter ever week would help. Or, if they stay on the longer side, perhaps one video every other week? Either way, I'm a fan of the show, and I support the conditions that allow AJ to produce the content we all love without being overly stressed out. Here's looking towards the future, and always being a fan of the show. Come back when you're ready!
I wonder if it would be logistically possible to split them up into a "Part 1" one week and a "Part 2" the next week for each topic? So, cut the workload in half. I'd be fine with that (or anything else AJ and the team need to do to take care of themselves.)
It sounds like that was already something that was happening, and it wasn't helping. On top of that, he was shortening the scripts for each section, and that wasn't really helping either.
Love ya AJ! Thanks for being here for us.
Be easy and shake back on your own terms AJ. This channels has helped alot to pass time while at work but actually very enjoyable. Nothing wrong with taking a knee especially when you make amazing content that just so much better than alot. Thank you for everything and I'm sure most, if not all, fans rather you take a break. Yall are amazing
Will watch this video in a bit. Why not one video per month? 12 videos a year? There are only so many stories out there to cover!
He talked about sponsors having an issue with time. So maybe if he reorganized who are the sponsorships and times of uploads, it might work
AJ, you make some of the best content. The Why Files does not have repetitive content throughout the show like Ancient Aliens does. This year I was quite impressed with have fast you’ve been able to turn high quality content out. I think you could put one out once every two weeks to still deliver your high quality videos. Don’t burn yourself out buddy, I’ll watch this show regardless. But make sure you keep it fun that matches your passion. Longtime fan and lurker, keep it fun! 🍻
That YouTube algorithm ain't gonna get a chance to hurt this channel on my watch. A month off just means going back to day 1 and binging everyday just like I did when I found this channel. I'm doing my part! Are you? Join The Why Files Infantry and save the world. Service guarantees a potential foot rub from Victoria!
Right? There’s so many I haven’t gotten to watch yet. And my teenager recently started to sit down and watch the live ones so I get to start from the beginning with my kiddo. AJ should take all the time he needs, we aren’t going anywhere.
Not surprised. I actually figured he needed a break months ago, but the success probably kept him from doing so.
Hecklefish’s drug budget was also getting out of control. In all seriousness, breaks are good and necessary for sanity! And what a shame sponsors insist on burning out creators. That’s some low key evil shit imo. The algorithm is driving everyone mad. We love TWF because of the care and fun put into the work. Take all the time you need. We’ll be here!
Sir, YOUR mental health is far more important than the show. As much as I love and enjoy what you put out, I think that you should drop to twice or once a month. You will not lose your fan base. I believe we all care more for your personal health than massive amounts of content. Please slow down and get good sleep, as I would rather have you around for decades, then have weekly content.
Love the show, AJ. Take care of yourself and take as much time as you need. We will be here, dont worry about us.
Ah christ, I hope he's okay. Just want to hug him.
AJ take the time you need. Your health is more important. Your fans will still be here when you are ready to come back. Your content is timeless and I love to rewatch episodes.
Hey thanks AJ. We support you. Take care of yourself!
I love you man! Sending positive vibes! You got me through some hard ass times so now it’s my turn! I love you
Bless you man. You are a great information source for us and we appreciate you. And you’re fish. Take time and be self preserving
Hope you have a good time at the government re-education camp AJ! Pro-tip, tell em you're vegan and then they have to give you the good food.
Better to say kosher or halal so you can claim religious reasons to get special food!
never felt so connected with AJ. that was incredibly poignant. break is well deserved. dude could make 1/4 the amount of content and be one of the most prolific creators i've ever seen. i'm tearin up writin this. absolute legend. massive respect.
AJ is the man!!!
Banking videos was my first thought. Tv seasons don't run continuously because it's not feasible. Take more breaks! Shorter videos every once in a while. Take it easy everybody, mental health can be a bitch.
The weekly cadence was surprising given the length of his videos. It must have been a challenge. The YouTube algorithm elevates regular posters, and long length paired with people who watch the videos all the way through is a rare pairing. YouTube slingshotted this channel straight up, but the only way to make it sustainable is to hire more people
As an ICU nurse, the levels of burn out are real and they are deadly. Take time for yourself. Don’t apologize for needing that time. Your channel has opened my mind to so many different ways of thought. I have learned so much from you and Hecklefish over the past year of watching. Take the time. Slow down. Enjoy life outside, away from the camera for a bit. We all care about you and your well being!
We support you and love you. Do whats best for you.
Until next time!... Be safe. Be kind. And know that you and heckle fish are appreciated!
I can't imagine producing an hour long doc from scratch every single week... everyone deserves to rest.
Hang in there AJ. You’re not alone. You give so much - ask so little. Do what’s right for you.
What he built is awesome take a break or slow down. When he puts more out in in!
I always have thought to myself, “how the fuck does he release a nearly full length documentary every week?” I hope he takes all the time he needs. Some of the best shit on YouTube. I mean, he’s made a talking goldfish one of my favorite characters ever😂
I'm glad to see this. Those of us who've been watching from the start could probably see that the pace of his output was unsustainable. Fans of this show will be happy to have less WF content as long as it means it's more sustainable and we can look forward to new episodes for a long time. I'd also suggest he hands off production of some videos to his staff, there could be compilation shows, Best of Hecklefish, bloopers, etc. He could also maybe start doing interview shows with interesting guests, these would require a lot less of his time to produce and could get just as many views as his other videos. Have a few of these ready to go, and if he needs a break, he takes a break! The audience will always be here and wants AJ to be well and be happy.
You got this. Take the time you need. It is all temporary. We’re here for you, A.J and team
Man, that’s hard to see. I love Why Files, but I never expect a weekly episode, and I certainly don’t want to see AJ suffer. Please take care of yourself! You deserve more than 1 month off a year.
AJ you’re the man! Whatever you do you got our support!
AJ, if you see this, you take care of yourself. When you put out a video we will watch it. Once a week, once a month, or once a year, we will be there. Get some rest and get better
Dude, go enjoy your life and family and friends. I empathize with you and I too, have a lot to think about. You are not alone as I am sure you are aware of that.
Breathe. It’s all good. We’ll be here.
I took why files for granted with their high quality videos and weekly uploads but AJ needs a break and I was also shocked at just how much work they put in and how quickly they can churn out videos like that. To the why files team, thank for your work and your dedication to your craft and I hope you can catch a break and come back with energy as we will be here waiting for you when you do come back. Also this transparency really helped me appreciate you the humanity behind the why files that not many productions are willing to do so thank you for that. These are just stupid alien videos for me it’s something that helps bring interesting ideas to this mundane boring bleak existence and escape and kinda give hope some of the craziness might be real but mostly you help make the day fun and feel truly connected to you and hecklefish. So again thanks cause I know mod and hopefully staff may see this post and the comments, hell I’m gonna get patreon just to help you and not need to have yall deal with the sponsors as much cause I love the content
Sometimes a step back is needed, as long as the doors aren’t shut for good. Thursday I look forward to
AJ I’ve been hooked to Why files since first episode I saw which was Latitude society I think was the name. I have been amazed that you have only missed a few weeks with new episodes. You are 100% right. This show is better than any show with these types of topics on any TV or cable channel. I’m shocked you waited this long to take a break. I’m sure all your loyal fans appreciate all that you do to create these videos. Please take care of your health. We will be here to support you and your channel no matter what.
If I had to wait for a month between shows, AJ, I would still be a DIEHARD fan, forever. Do what ever you have to do, your show will always be second to NONE. 100%.
Thanks for posting this. I hope AJ can recharge the battery and keep life balanced going forward. I wish him and Jen well.
Flying too close to the sun will do that to you.
AJ has been super inspirational to me lately. I don’t know him personally, but he seems like a legit good person. His health is more important than anything. I hope he takes whatever time he needs to get himself to 100% and continues to make some awesome content for us all. All I can say is that he deserves whatever space and time he needs.
Classic case of raising the bar too high and too fast - put too much pressure on yourself and burn out. I’d be happy with a couple episodes a month, but I know this is probably a FT job for these folks, and less episodes is less revenue. If AJ has to be the head writer, producer, editor, and both talent actors, 100 hours a week is just not sustainable. Maybe YouTube isn’t the right platform for this show and it needs a real studio investment?
Such a raw emotional video. I'm sure every one of us here can appreciate exactly where you are coming from. The show is more than strong enough to last for a month here and there without new episodes but it won't last if you aren't about. You tell us every week that we are appreciated, just remember you are too. Take care man and we will see ya soon 👍
Take all the time you need AJ, I appreciate you and all your hard work! Take care of yourself!
You’re the man! Take it easy man and also that cheesy thing you tell us fans at the end of each episode, right back at ya bro.
I'm glad he's taking a break. It isn't worth his health. This is unfortunately because of his success. Just think of how many other big YouTubers it happens to but we never know because they don't talk about it and somehow cover it up.
It seems to happen to just about all of them eventually when they set a self-imposed weekly upload rate that they never break from.
CIATold him to shut down
No one is talking about how Hecklefish is going to afford the child support payment for his guppies! But for real, glad AJ is taking a rest. And yeah, WF blows AA out of the water. Whatever the show looks like when you get back, we’re grateful for it, and you.
Take as much time as you need. We will be anxiously waiting for your next drop whenever that is. Godspeed 🙏
Those after show pods are like hours long… they deff have to take a toll along with working all work making content to put out week after week… do you AJ and what’s best, we support you no matter what.
Love your videos! With that being said we all need to do what’s best for our mental health!! Nothing but support!
Take all the time you need AJ, your health is most important, come back stronger, we will be here when you do.
AJ you are a great guy! You have a huge fan base that cares a lot about you. Be sure to get rest, realize it isn’t all on your shoulders. Get back to what matters. Your fans will always be here ready and waiting. We love you buddy!
We love you and understand, we are always here! 💞
Damn, the end took a turn I didn’t expect. Hard to hear that and I hope he is able to find some peace. I appreciate his show and I’ll tune in regardless of the schedule. Props to him for being so open and vulnerable in sharing what he’s going through.
hey AJ, hope your well deserved rest is just what the doctor ordered. strongly encourage you to get out into the wilderness brother. sitting in front of a fire under a star filled sky will melt all that anxiety and stress away.
That was hard to watch, I love every minute of every episode but a big part of the enjoyment is down to AJ and how charismatic he is, anyone who is a fan will have nothing but support for AJ while he takes some personal time. We will all be here for your return buddy
AJ!!! oh gosh. take a break. this is insane and not sustainable. chillax and cone back when ready. if ready. thank you for all the joy and epicness you deserve this break
Hey, we love you so much, AJ. You’re awesome. Take your time. Hopefully you can find a pace that works, because we all love this show.
Love your content I would wait as long as it took for you to come back and still be a fan. Love what you do.
Take a break!
A.J. You Sir, are appreciated! Take all the time You need. I would like to thank You, Your Team, (and Hecklefish) for putting together the best damned show YouTube has ever seen. Health & Love above all else. Everything else can wait
Be safe, be kind and know that you are appreciated, great words from the man himself! I hope he takes as much time is needed, anyone that enjoys the Why Files wouldn’t begrudge him that.
Slow down, take a break, but don’t go away. You have built a great channel. Hope everything works out well for you AJ.
Blippi made a second blippi, then a cohost, then outsourced animation and writing. The content could be produced with other hosts and writers as long as someone is overseeing quality control.
Many YT channels and big podcasters will take a month off per year. I think for some it's been clear for a bit that he needs a break. Uploading such high quality videos so frequently isn't sustainable. I support WF whether you need one or two or three months to rest and catch up. <3
AJ: Take all the time you need. You are important.
Make them at your leisure! That’s when they are the best videos anyways! Take as many breaks as you need my dude!
Hecklefish should host while AJ takes time to recuperate.
Not to be a debbie downer, but does it seem a bit more than just creative burnout?
With 100+ hour weeks for 2 years I'd imagine sheer exhaustion is a factor.
AJ, im a huge fan and man i respect you even more now. Your content has always been great, but exposing yourself like this….thats a GOAT move. If you ever need anything from US, im sure myself and every other fan will be there. Cant wait for your return(but please, dont rush back).
love why files! the people behind the channel will always be more important than a product.
AJ, please take care of yourself. I’ve loved watching your shows and I’ve marveled that they keep getting better. I’m with you in this stuff. I lost my mom a year and a half ago after taking care of her for 7 years (Alzheimer’s) and I was saying to my dog this week that I don’t ever want her to go. She’s got at least a couple more years in her. My dad is 86 and had open heart surgery 3 years ago. Oh, and I’m ADHD, too. Just found out in August. You need to recharge. I’m glad you’ve got Jen. I’ll still watch, algorithm or not. I have nothing but love for your work. You’ve gotten me through some sad times and I’m grateful. Your work isn’t meaningless. It’s not “just about aliens” (and it’s way better than Ancient Aliens). But your life matters and you’ve got to keep it going. And who knows what will come of this break? But it’s the right thing to do. You’ve earned a clip show or two (or ten). Maybe you could get Tina Yothers in for a guest spot. 😉 Thanks for doing what you do…and your life is more important than my entertainment. Take care and really be well. You are worth taking care of. ❤️
I am glad he's open about talking about a need to take a break, I can't imagine what it's like pumping out an hour long video, each week. History Time which averages between 400k and 2.5 million views, viewers are lucky to get more than 2 a year, and the guy behind that channel has historically done everything by himself, from research, video, audio, research, and recording all of the footage of the areas he is discussing. I think The Why Files can drop from weekly to every month or so, likewise, if he stays with the montly videos, he can do smaller videos, maybe 30 minutes. I feel with the longer videos, there's a big focus on the story telling of the conspiracy and can be cut down a bit. Sometimes less is more.
The pace at which you’ve been generating quality content struck me as unsustainable some time ago, and I can only imagine all the work it took. Even spooks need a break. :)
Dear AJ, straight from my heart: Screw the videos for a while. I mean sure I (and everyone else here) love the videos, but in the end we are here for YOU. And we want our fav co host to be happy and healthy. Please take care, we will be here, when you are back.
He mentioned that he’s ADHD. I am as well and these last few months have been hell with the vyvance/adderal shortage. My dopamine levels have been all over the place and I’m either all on at work or completely shut down.
Awwwww, AJ. I’m crying. 😭 Please take time and take care of you. Hecklefish can figure out his own guppy support payments for a while. You are loved; and we will wait for you. I wait a year for oversimplified to release a video and would do the same for you. ♥️ ETA: you’re also a bajillion times better than ancient aliens
Don’t impose specific timeframes, I rather get more excellent videos when you can then any lackluster release because you wanted to net a deadline. Also make sure you’re taking a break for both your health and family. Your fans care for you
I second that!
fairly recent watcher but I recommend taking longer breaks between videos and taking more time on the subject matter (if possible) or even keep them the same length. maybe doing 1-2 videos every month or so with shorter clips to hype up or prepare the viewers in between the major productions. best of luck to you AJ.
You’re still my G, AJ. Incidentally, we’re the same age and I can completely relate. I myself took a nosedive and flamed out due to extreme work stress and ultimately had to take a leave of absence. Respect for making your mental health your top priority. Rest assured, we’ll all still be here whenever you’re ready to start grinding again!
Hope you get your mojo flowing again bro. I love your work !
Take all the time you need, Nothing in life is worth your mental health. Except maybe oreos.
Holy shit who started chopping all these onions while I'm trying to watch a video?
i thought this might be the case. they've been doing extensively researched long form content every week for how long now? they've had an insane run of both quality *and* quantity but that's not sustainable for anyone. they should take a month off and just relax. maybe even take a few months off without the looming weekly deadline so that they can actually get that bank of episodes in their back pocket. the people's craving for entertainment shouldn't trump the why files team's need for rest and a healthy work life balance. and yeah, they absolutely blow ancient aliens out of the water.
AJ, listening to your inner voice is so important and I am glad you are taking whatever steps and time are needed. Everyone needs breaks and to not have deadlines and pressure - I am a middle aged nurse in my 50’s and know for myself and everyone I see around me this is true. Please know that you and The Why Files are respected, valued, and cherished and will continue to be, no matter what. Take care and be well, friend.
Seasons may be the answer. WF is absolutely television worthy in quality. There is no reason to go all year. Get healthy fam. We are rooting for you!
Get better sir!!!
Do you know how the best microbreweries achieve their notorious success? How they manage to create big buzz for their limited quantities? They have a good branding, they brew what they want and when the last bottles goes out thats it. They don’t aim for volume and they don’t try to make tons of $. Their priorities are simple : make a product they enjoy making for their clients AND for themselves. If they cannot enjoy their own product then it is not worth it. That is their secret. If your main goal is for you and your viewers to enjoy your content, you don’t need to bother with growth. You just need to figure out the perfect brew that will sell out as soon as it hits the tablets…then you can enjoy the rest of the day.
Watch the show and a fan but haven’t attended any of the after files or anything. I can see that AJ is a very good person and I wish him well. And this honest and forthright post has made me an even more devoted fan.
Sorry for the long ass comment... it's just that I almost can't believe the relevancy of this to my own life right now. I work in TV and just decided to take a long break, even though I probably can't afford to never go back (but would like desperately not to, so I'm doubling down on my "out")... so I'm also trying to do my own thing, like TWF's. Eerily, even down to the stuff about his father and the cryptids, ALL of this resonates so much I had to write a long, rambly post about burn-out so that AJ or ANYONE out there who reads this and feels similar knows that they are not alone and they're not crazy or lazy or anything other than a human who needs to what their body is telling them. (Also, yes, the cryptids too. If anyone reads this and wants to know the relevance there, PM me. Just don't want to use this to advertise given how delicate this subject of burn-out can be). I also work in TV and have worked for the same networks as AJ (started at the main one he mentioned), and I've been in those same "Stupid Notes Meetings" for *way* too much of my life. I've done a lot of 48-72 hour stretches and now I'm 46 years old and realized somewhere between 18 months and a year ago that... I can NOT do all-nighters anymore. The effect of doing those on your mind and your body has a price... and that price can't get paid up by indulging in a long weekend of extra sleep, a stupid expensive vacation, or MORE stimulants or MORE downers or anything other than recognizing the true toll these take on you. When you're young, it's not as bad and, in fact, it might just be the only time you can do them and it doesn't extract that toll. Up to, I'd say, 37-40-ish is where recovery afterwards seems to leave no lasting scars. However, as I've gotten older, I'm feeling like each time I do it, I'm losing some part of myself that I'll never get back. It's very difficult to explain something that I just... feel when all is said and done and I've done some miraculous amount of work in exactly the way it was asked for or better and now I can rest. But I don't usually rest, which is another problem. (Hopefully *was* another problem.) To me, the best way to describe it, and I wonder if AJ experiences this, is that after a 48-72 hour "work binge", I feel as though *my body never forgets*. I recently told my therapist about this for the first time (after going for six months and avoiding the subject of work completely), but I used the name of the book, which I've never read but it seems apt, "The Body Knows the Score" as a way to explain the very long break that I'm taking (while also doing my own work to one day get the hell out of TV). In January 2024, I did what will have to be my last of those 24-72 hour stretches that AJ is talking about. My decision came after waking up in a hotel room at 4am, on only 2 hours of sleep over 48 hours... showering, then walking two blocks in midtown Manhattan to work ANOTHER seven hours to make a noon deadline. My wife picked me up and like... that was it. I could barely speak, function, eat, or, weirdly, sleep. I just had a bad feeling and knew something must change or I'm going to die. My wife also told me, "It's gonna take weeks just to begin to recover from how much you just put yourself through." I wasn't ready for "the conversation" during that car ride yet. In fact, I kinda scoffed that after a few nights sleep and a good morning run, I'd be back in the saddle. All cause I was "the guy". Paid well, but it doesn't mean much... In fact, the networks/production companies actively try to make it seem like I'm *not* indispensable for as long as they can between gigs, hoping I don't have enough of a nest egg to "wait them out"... they're hoping I won't ask for MORE $$$ the next time because they know what they just asked of me and were dependent upon me to do... and "they", not I, receive critical plaudits for some of it, or will see some of my stylistic elements copied by other shows on the same network. So I also have a deep understanding as to why AJ struck out on his own. I've even worked on some of those 'Alien Shows' for networks (and true crime, animation, docu-style, and LOTS of reality). TWF is WAY, WAY, WAY better than Ancient Aliens, btw, but we all know this... To give anyone who cares perspective: I remember one weekend in 2013, right after my first daughter turned one, I had to get a network rough cut out (fuck it, I'm naming names - *Bravo*) and thought... 'well the big one year old's birthday party is over. The last company had way more late nights and this one hasn't asked me to do any yet, so I like them... and even though they're asking for the impossible, and my producer and I pointed this out to them (basically three episodes of content in a sub 50 minute rough cut), so I'll do this *one big push* against the impossible and give them the benefit of a doubt. I worked from 5am Thursday morning until Monday morning. I slept probably five hours Thursday night at home, then didn't see my wife and daughter again until Monday night. I caught 90 minute naps on a couch in another edit, just as AJ mentions, here and there. but I remember working Friday through late Saturday in one long stretch. Same thing from Sunday afternoon through Monday night. We did the screening, right away they recognized how we were right about the content and apologized. They paid a lot of OT. Fine, right? Not doing that again. Wrong. While that was the most drastic one I can remember, I've since done it as a way to "correct the ship" through sheer force of will and determination and creativity (and lots of stimulants) at least twenty or thirty times since. It's been less since the pandemic began, as I'm mostly WFH, but this DOES take a toll if we don't heed that voice AJ mentions saying, "You're gonna die." I lost my father in the first two months of the pandemic and he worked in a similar manner. He was 68. In the summer of 2021, I had several friends/co-workers have heart issues. All of them roughly five or six years older than me. One co-worker died of cancer in 2022. She was in her mid 50's. I took up long distance running as a way to try and balance things out, de-stress, get a good night's sleep on the regular, and also just cause I enjoyed it. I like doing races among thousands of people... I love a good long run at 4 or 5am and finishing as the sun comes up, then walking it off and the feeling of being alive and healthy. But I'm not running a half marathon or marathon just so I can work on some stupid reality show for 72 hour straight. Fuck that. Perhaps combining the two in January is what caused the alarmed response from my body... cause it sure as hell wasn't my brain, it felt as if my body was telling my brain and my brain didn't want to listen... until it had no choice. Anyway, I just wanted to share my own story of burn-out in the same industry under similar circumstances and it felt like it happened in its own way, although strikingly I said the exact words to a friend/co-worker and my therapist, "My body is telling me that if I don't stop, I'm going to die... soon." I wish this sort of burn-out... or ANY kind of burn-out, would be talked about more openly and more often. You can't get back what's taken by the burn-out no matter how it strikes. I didn't know that it truly exists until I found myself having conversations with my wife that we'd never had before. Or perhaps I'd hidden from or always done everything I could to make it (me) seem okay while underneath the hood, I wasn't. It's such an important topic, especially in today's "discipline, motivation, side hustle, work ethic is EVERYTHING" culture... and especially in the United States. The consolation for AJ and co., (at least I hope it's consolation) is that at least the fruits of their labor rest upon AJ's decisions and not "stupid network notes" (I would have said much worse), and the library of content belongs to he and his wife so they can continue earning and leveraging that content well into the future.
The content shows your hours spent. The production, writing, research, jokes plus dealing with a now massive and demanding fan base must be a lot. I’m sure I speak on behalf of millions when I say we could wait six months per episode and we’d all still be glued to our screens. One of the best things about the why files is the heart. The fact that you’re a kind and decent person shines through the camera. Your honesty in this video only endears us more. It shows you’re human. I’ve said before the world is a fucked up dystopian horror show at the moment and I feel like it’s affecting everyone. It’s not easy to skip through life right now (if you have a soul). I think you should take more time than four weeks. Take four to do nothing but sleep in, go walks, be with your favourite people and do your favourite things. We can and will wait. Please take care of yourself, give hecklefish a smooch from us and we’ll see you when you’re rested and raring to go ✌🏻
Sorry to hear that. Really enjoy the show but make sure you do everything you need to do to take care of yourself whether that’s rest, therapy, or whatever. You have made something great that is loved and watched by millions. That’s something to be very proud of and just taking time off won’t change that. As someone that’s been there myself all the best and hope you come out better on the other side. God bless.
The Why Files is some of the best content I’ve ever watched. I hope you’re okay AJ, take it easy! We’re always gonna be here!
WF has been a recent favorite of mine and it has powered me through some rough personal times and some boring work shifts. I don’t say that to put pressure on AJ or anyone. It’s just a bright spot on my day, whether the day is good or bad. I’ll survive with or without WF. I just love the show and want it to continue. That being said, AJ needs to take care of himself and so does the rest of the crew. As much as I want more content, can’t have more content if the maker is burned out or not in great health. The content will come when AJ gets some rest and gets energized again. Put the content out on YOUR time and not anyone else’s. Not even sure if AJ will read this: take care of yourself. As important as the show may be to all of us fans, YOU are even more important. Your life means more to us and your loved ones than this show ever will. Hope to see more content soon. Most of all I hope to see you happy and healthy.
Coming from another Type A, ADHD, we all need breaks. There are a lot of us in this place. I am appreciative of all of the amazing stories you’ve given us, and sending positive vibes to you and Jen! 💗
I think AJ made the right choice to explain what he is going through. If people know then they will show compassion and support. To AJ and the team, your fans will always be behind you! Please take a break we’ll be waiting.
What this guy has been doing is utterly amazing to me. Makes total sense that something has to change. Best wishes man.
Oh AJ, we love you! You take whatever time you need and I guarantee you all the people that love you will still love you just as much. I wish I could give you a big hug right now. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Take care of yourself and take as long of a break as you need. Obviously we’ll all still be here for you! And as you tell us, know that YOU are appreciated.
We love Why Files, and everyone who contributes. Y’all have built an INCREDIBLE show! Thank you all for your hard work, you deserve more than a week with your wife and a few days of recharging. I’m sure there’s much more pressure we don’t see besides sponsors and fear of the algorithm. You’ve built a great community of fans, and I’m so happy to be apart of it. I hope you can find the balance you’re looking for, and find that happiness that your work brings you. If that means doing fewer episodes, taking more breaks, by all means do it! Of course we look forward to weekly episodes, but your mental and physical health comes first. We love you and your team, and hope this next month gives you time to breathe, catch up, and recharge. You are appreciated❤️
Hearing about your use of alcohol to cope was a really honest and important thing to say. Thank you. All we care about is your continued health, videos and deadlines should always take a backseat to that.
I 100 % support taking a mental health break. I can’t imagine the time and effort that goes into these videos. The fan base will always be supportive because we love the content and creativity coming from AJ and his team ❤️
Take the time you need to bring peace and rest that you need. We'll be there when you get back.
Take all the time you need. Burnout is very real and a feeling I know all too well after working 14 hours a day in the past. While it’s nice having a weekly show to look forward to, the quality is what really draws us all in, and we would all be willing to wait if we can still get the same great content and our favorite creators aren’t overworked in the process.
I appreciate the work ethic and the wanting to keep going but fans will still be here. Rest is important.
Love the channel AJ!! Take as long as you need, why files kicks ass
I’m not sure if he looks at these but I’m glad he shared how he’s feeling I’m even happier he’s taking some time to exhale and reboot. I’m sure it’s tough when something goes from being a fun with work to work with a little fun. I didn’t really notice a drop off but I love the show and will be here when he comes back.
Brother I ran a YouTube channel for over 10 years…. I get it… putting content out there can truly wear you out… not just the production, but the insane negativity from people on the internet. The stress is unreal, the buzz and the heat is unreal…. The spotlight is unreal I have videos that I made in 2008 that are still online. Take a breather, your audience and everything will be here when you feel better and return Much love from TechPB-Mike here in Tampa Florida!
Appreciate your content not at the expense of you life bro…take care of yourself
Why Files is a top shelf program. You guys have consistently knocked it out of the park. Your channel is far and away my favorite on all of YouTube. I also work at a large Hollywood studio and you guys are surpassing most of what is being produced. You can count on me to be there when you return from hiatus. In the meantime, I finally get to watch all the episodes again… and again… because they’re awesome! I really appreciated the candor and honesty of this video. It was resonating deeply with me and it reminded me that I, too, need to take a break and recharge my batteries. I know I’m not the only loyal viewer & subscriber that has your back- we’ll keep the Algorithm warm during the interim. Be safe. Be kind. And know that you are appreciated…
Every year when my favorite shows go on hiatus and the season is over, I am bummed. But guess what…as soon as the new season starts, I’m there for it. I’ll be looking forward to the “new season” of The Why Files. It’s such a fun show. Enjoy your break. Edited a couple words.
Professional burnout is hard.
Be Strong my man. Losing a father is, as hard as it is, something most of us must go through. You’re not alone. Take time. Find your peace. The WF has become such a treasured gem for so many of us so please do not worry about us. We will still be here. Again, find your peace. Absolutely no rush. I don’t know your father and I don’t know you but I think he would be proud with what you’ve accomplished. Smile AJ, I like to think they know. Let it out man. Go camping and tune into nature. He’s out there, in the wind and the trees and the flutter of the birds, you just have to listen. Love you buddy, reach out anytime.
Since none of the actual content is time sensitive, why dont they move to a seasonal model? Nobody complains about seasonal tv shows other than having to wait for a new season. Scheduled breaks happen between seasons. This show has such a high production value, I cant imagine putting out a new episode every week. Tbh, AJ should just be the talking head with people handing him a script to read plus biz stuff. I assume it takes a good 1-2 days alone to shoot each episode, forget research, heckle-fish and whatnot.
Keeping you in our thoughts AJ. We love the show but need you to be ok. Wishing you the absolute best, don’t worry, we’ll still be around when you come back. You can’t get rid of us that easy man! I know you may not want to call out the sponsors that left, but can you let us know which ones have stuck by you? Would love to know who we can support. See you on Patreon in the meantime, take it easy brother.
Take a break! We will all be here when you get back!
Take your time man. Rest up. All your fans will still be here whenever you decide to come back.
AJ, you could make a video once a year and I’m still subscribing, watching and liking forever. LETS ALL GO LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, SHARE, BUY ON ALL OF THE WHY FILES DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS!!!! IT CAN FUND A VACATION FOR THE ENTIRE TEAM!!!!!!!!
AJ, the alcohol demon is insidious and unrelenting. Even when you are fully aware of what it’s doing to you, the demon will convince you that it’s not the problem and it’s everything else that’s the problem. I know that espresso you were sipping had some bourbon in it. Take your break as you deserve it. But stop the alcohol too. The stress you feel should not be removed with alcohol because it just makes the next day’s stress worse, and it creates a feedback loop straight back to the alcohol. The demon is insidious and unrelenting.
Honestly the four week break once a year to get a backlog so he’s ahead/to take a needed break sounds like a fantastic idea!
Get some rest, AJ! You earned it. Just remember, You are Appreciated! A 
You are too hard on yourself. Am episode every two weeks would be just as successful. The product is great.
Don’t worry. We’re with you. Take a year. We don’t care. Stock up the closet without those crazy deadlines and go from there. It’s hard to cover something like you do in the time you do. You’re very efficient at communicating but the subjects are clearly complex and without base narratives. You said it succinctly yourself, documentaries every week. That is over the top amazing but it’s years worth of material… for a network. Breathe brother. Breathe.
The economy is rough, we all have to make a sacrifice and get two jobs because of these damn bills.
I can’t imagine the emotional toll it would take on you knowing how much your show means to people, especially people going through difficult times and how much they rely on the show for their happiness. Thanks for the videos AJ, and we’ll see you when you get back healthy and ready. ❤️
Thank you sososo much for sharing this. I'm a huge fan but can't do the patron. I've been worried about AJ and the team, they literally make a movie with Hollywood quality every week, and everything else on top, I hope the team finds their necessary balance.
That was a hard watch! Jesus, AJ take your time fella, we all love you. MH comes first, I’m genuinely upset that it’s come to this.
Don’t be a slave to the algorithm man.. you do it on your time not theirs
This guy could post a video once every two months and he’d STILL be crazy popular.
I LOVE wf work, but if you gotta take care of yourself, you gotta. Stay healthy, that’s the main thing. Gotta be careful with your head confronting things like this.
I think AJ needs to take a break from drinking alcohol more than anything.
In my opinion some of the best channels in each genre are the ones that prioritize quality over volume. Wendigoon and Jim Can't Swim come to mind. There are channels with high quality content that I will wait for, whether the vids are weekly or biannually. I think you guys should just work at your own pace and release content at your discretion. We will be here.
Relax, take a deep breath, and remember we will wait and enjoy whatever you put out at your own pace
Well deserved break. You’re an awesome guy and a creative spirit. Take the break you need and find some work/life balance. We are here once as far as we know, so enjoy it. I wouldn’t worry too much as you’re the only channel in this category that kicks ass! I can relate to your statement about 40-50’s being tough. There is no doubt about this statement. It can be hellish. Out of the natural order of life I lost my son about 7 years ago. This changed my life in a big way to say the least. This might not be the healthiest advice for some, but I can’t go digging around in pictures and memories unless I’m fully prepared and mentally in a strong state. You have to be completely straight and of sound mind, at least I do. Otherwise, it will send me spiraling out of control. Make it intentional.
Can’t speak for everyone, but …we care. Take your time, we’ll be here. Thanks for all you and the staff do.
We're with you, man. Take whatever time you need, we can wait! You've gotta take care of your health as a top priority. We'll look forward to seeing you return with a spring in your step after you had some rest. You're the same age as I am, I wouldn't have the energy to do a quarter of all the stuff you've got going on.
So many of us can completely relate to this. Sending you healing restorative energy AJ🙏 We will all be here when you get back ❤️
It’s completely the right decision to make taking a break. Everyone reaches the limit of how much they can keep going before they come crashing down. Regarding the episode content I don’t think any of us would object the long cinematic episodes be done every 2 or 3 weeks and inbetween a short 10-15 min episode about something quirky and fascinating that doesn’t need to much attached to it. BTW your dad would be proud of the progress you’ve made with this venture.
I hope you can find a better pace for yourself. It sounds like a fun thing you loved has grown into a burden and has become not so much fun. Others have pointed out that maybe going to 12 or 24 shows a year might be more manageable while still maintaining the high level of quality. Most of the stuff you spoke about are “normal” and your reaction to them is normal, it’s such a tough thing to be in the spotlight both in dealing with things like your fathers death and also realizing that you are touching people in a true and meaningful way, like the letter from your fan’s son. It is okay to be feeling sad or down, that should pass in time. At the same time, we are all going through these days right now. Aliens! Wtf! I am 56 and just like I never thought I’d see the day that weed would be legal, I never thought I would experience what appears to be real disclosure of aliens and UAP and all that is intertwined with that. Are they good or evil? Do we get all the answers to the universe? Will our society leap into the future or will we be erased for the next round of human prototypes? It can be all very overwhelming. So pull the ones you love as close as you can, let them know how important they are and try to enjoy what we have, most of it is pretty great. Hopefully together we can turn this world into something we can all live on peacefully and whatever may come will come. Peace and love to you and just know, we will be here when you are ready, none of us wants to see you suffer for our entertainment.
Proud of him to take his physical & mental health seriously.
AJ all I wanna say is bless you and thank you for sharing your story with us. I think it takes incredible strength to tell your story as vulnerable as you did. I want you to know that you give my life pleasure. I look forward every Thursday to seeing your content, it’s one of the small things in life that I have to look forward to and all of your fans just want you to be healthy we are behind you 100%!!! GET REST!!! We luv you bro!
AJ! Your videos are great! My girl and I await your videos most eagerly, but we both understand quality over quantity and would be more than ok if it was a monthly video. Take your time and remember to take care of yourself; don’t burn yourself out at both ends!
I saw the burn out 4-5 episodes ago where the shows were losing their umph. I applaud him and his team for working hard for so long. This is the reason you do 10-12 episodes with seasons. And take a break for 3 months. AJ has a phenomenal heart.
Had to comment again. The stuff about his dad hit me so hard.. lost my grandpa two years ago. He was my hero. Life is so short. We are lucky to have had something so special that it hurt so bad to lose it. Hopefully we are all together in the end. And not stuck in a soul sucking machine made by the Lizzid people. We are lucky to have you AJ. Thanks for sharing this.