This is interesting given that, like the article suggests, patron contributions were still growing last month. Seems like they either wanted an excuse to "right-size" and this is a great opportunity, or they're expecting a significant hit to patron contributions on the back of mass unemployment, which would make the rest of the year rather painful.
> This decision was not made lightly and consisted of several other factors beyond the financial ones. Prior to the pandemic, we had completed an in-depth performance review cycle and deployed a new company strategy – both exercises highlighted the need for different skill sets moving forward.
It was this combination of economic uncertainty, performance reviews and a shift in strategy that prompted us to make this change.
I am more inclined to believe that a lot of people are dumping their donations right now. Listen to a few podcasts that rely on it, and it will be clear.
I know that my patreon subscriptions are unfortunately the first to go of all my expenses right now. I only do them to inspire certain creators to keep going, but in some cases I don’t even listen to them or use their stuff anymore, I just liked donating so they could do what they love. But when things get tight, I have to survive first.
You’re probably right about “right-sizing.” I’m close with another company in this space, and they’re seeing their biggest growth ever right now. But they do have slight variances in business models, and maybe that’s making all the difference.
I ain't seeing it. I saw significantly more patron contributions. I guess maybe there's a danger I am just that awesome? ;P the general sense I get is people tend to rally around their creators, and I would imagine that happens across the board, and not just in special cases.
The patreon podcasts I listen to have all said they're sorry to see people go but know money will be tight for many, and that if we can stand remote recordings, they'll be making just as much content as before.
Not sure if they're all just spooked or if they've seen hits already.
