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Reflections After 10 Episodes

The last two months have been a whirlwind. The busiest, craziest, and most tiring of my life.


Funny thing is, the last two months of my life have also been the most exhilarating and rewarding I’ve experienced in my 32 years on this planet. I’ve never felt so creative, so excited, and so personally and professionally fulfilled.


Life comes at you like that, sometimes. With highs and lows, sometimes in extremes, stitched together just-so in order to create a new tapestry you couldn’t imagine possible even days and weeks earlier.


Moving on from my old life wasn’t easy, nor intuitive. It was overtly frightening, leaping without looking. I wrote about, made videos concerning, and podcasted on video games for a staggering 18 years of my life. I started from the most embryonic state imaginable, with nothing but a ton of free time allotted only to bored teenagers, and an insatiable appetite for the craft. I had no expectations of (or much desire for) success or fame. But I became one of the lucky ones. My hard work and determination paid off. It is a classic bootstraps story, a classic midnight oil story, a classic burning both ends story. It is all the proof you need that you are the captain of your own ship, and you play a major, central role in charting your own course.


But the story doesn’t start and stop there. I’ll always be the first to tell you that, without the kindness and belief of those around me, and the opportunities they provided for me, I would have never risen from freelancer and intern to Associate Editor to Editor to Senior Editor of the world’s biggest video game website. I would have never co-hosted one of the most famous, popular, and beloved gaming podcasts the world has ever seen. Likewise, without the love, support, and kindness of those who followed me for those many years, I wouldn’t have been able to walk away from that situation strictly on my own terms. I could have stayed -- I’d still be there right now, had I chosen a different path -- but I saw opportunity. Something new beckoning on the horizon.


I knew that next endeavor would also ultimately end for me -- nothing is permanent -- though I didn’t anticipate I’d choose to walk away after only a couple of years. But I did, once again on my own terms, and once again because of the strength provided to me by the thousands upon thousands upon thousands of you out there who, somehow, some way, became my ardent fans and supporters. Somewhere along the way -- in a million different ways, at a million different moments in time -- you and I became intrinsically linked. That fact, and that fact alone, has been one of the truest, realest blessings of my life. If my mind is the engine, and my heart the compass, then you guys an gals are undoubtedly the fuel.


Jumping into the abyss was scary. It still is, actually. But we all deserve an opportunity for true happiness. Not just contentment or “this is what I do, so I guess I’ll do it forever,” but actual happiness. A reason to wake up in the morning, to excitedly approach each day with an authentic eagerness. I hadn’t had that in years. It’s hard to explain to an outside observer how lost, lonely, trapped, and depressed I had become. I kept telling myself, “this is who you are, and this is what you do,” but in reality, I am who I am, and I can do whatever I set my mind to. (That’s true for all of us, by the way.)


Colin’s Last Stand is the result of an internal and external maelstrom, a tugging of the heart and the mind, the creation of something out of a raging wildfire. I didn’t know if it’d work. I didn’t know if anyone would care. And those remain open questions: I still don’t know if it’ll ultimately work, and I still know if anyone will ultimately care. But the signs sure are positive, aren’t they? My modest financial goals were eclipsed many times over. My estimates for how many views my videos would get, how positive the interactions would be on YouTube, what the like-to-dislike ratio was, how Reddit and Twitter and Facebook would respond. all blown to smithereens. It turns out there’s an appetite out there for something with actual heft and meaning, and all of you out there determined the barometer’s incredibly positive reading.


I’ve never worked this hard in my life, and that says something, not only to me, but to family and close friends, who know that there were many times in my life when I was nothing but a workaholic. I’ve given myself one real day off since my resignation; otherwise, I’ve worked my ass off. I’m sleeping less than I’ve ever slept. I’ve lost weight. I’m up at weird hours, writing a script, or jotting down some notes, or interacting with CLS’ amazing fanbase across the Internet.


I’ve never been this happy, because I’m doing exactly what it is I want to do. I’ve never felt this fulfilled, because I wasn’t only able to live my dream once, through my 20’s, but twice, into my 30’s. And even if it all falls apart and it all goes away, I will know that I tried, that I gave it my all, that I left it all out on the field. Every ounce of me has gone into this. I’ve given it everything. And I hope it shows, even if there’s so much left for me to learn, to figure out, and to improve at. I am a one man army, and I’m doing my absolute best, each and every day. I will never, ever mail it in.


I lost a lot these past couple of months. Friends I thought were friends weren’t. Allies I had assisted didn’t return the favor. I barely stepped foot in my own apartment that I had once adored, and a city that I had spent so much time in and learned to love ended up a cold husk I no longer wanted to be anywhere near.


But in that destruction came a sort of beautiful awakening. I moved to a new city, one that feels so welcoming, so different, and so unique. I got a new apartment in a new building, blocks from the beach (I need to connect to my LI roots, after all). New friends and allies appeared and extended a hand. My oldest friends -- the Ramons and Mike Popes of the world -- reaffirmed their love and affection for me. My family -- my father and mother, my sisters and brother, my brother-in-law and sister-in-law, my cousins, my nieces and nephews, down to the absolute last person -- showed their undying affection for me. Old friends, acquaintances, and faces I hadn’t heard from in years patted me on the back and reminded me they knew who I really was.


And my girlfriend -- my fucking unmovable rock of a woman -- stayed in my corner and vigilantly watched my back. You want to talk about loyalty? You want to talk about thick and thin? You want to talk about utter devotion? You have your definition in Erin.


Never before had I seen where so many people stood. And while it was painful in many ways, it was incredible in others. The cast of characters I have in my life today are nothing short of incredible, and the opportunities being presented to me to this day, even outside of Colin’s Last Stand, are extraordinary.


But, as always, it circles right on back to all of you. The fuel. You stood by me, too. You had my back, too. You were as eager to support me, watch my videos, and show your love as I was to move on with my life, to try something new, and to hope above all else that it’d succeed. None of you out there -- whether you watch an occasional video or support me at the highest level on Patreon, or anywhere in between -- can truly fathom how much I owe you. Nothing is lost on me there. Not a damn thing. You and I? We have a bond. The proof, as it turns out, is in the pudding.


Colin’s Last Stand continues to evolve, to (I hope) get better, and to -- above all else -- inform, educate, and catalyze a little bit of thought. In a world full of so much filler and so much bullshit, I want CLS to provide a respite. I hope it’s working. You’ll be the judge of that.


I thank you from the very bottom of my heart for what you’ve done for me. I won’t let you down.



Your friend, -Colin

Comments

Colin. Can ya stop trying to make me cry like a woman after watching the notebook? You're not plump from the Italian restaurant you're plump on all that humble pie! Also the content is definitely evolving and gets more interesting by the episode, and I'm loving every minute of it. 3 pieces of off topic rambling for the abyss that is the internet: 1: book update (pretty please) 2: life is chaos for you right now but anything in the works of those two words you can't stand (meet & greet) maybe long term like book signing? 3: for the love of god (who isn't real) can you plan to play. Take another day off or get ripped and play guitar SOMETHING. Don't you dare burn out on me. Bros for life -Dan

Dan Cadogan

Thanks Colin. So glad this is making you so happy. You are off to a great start and we will all be along for the ride with you.

Chris Davies

We all truly appreciate the hard work you've been doing, and it's a joy to see you enjoy your work once again. My father is a high school football coach, a highly successful one. One of the many things that he's tried to install in the young men he's coached through the years is the concept of one's character. Something we often say is that you can't turn character on and off. You can't be perfect out on the football field in regards to following coaches instructions, and then be a troublemaker in class. Likewise, you can't pretend or fake being someone or something that you aren't at your core. You are what you are. Now, you aren't strictly beholden to this, you can take steps to change your life. But you can't get by in life faking it, whatever "it" may be in a particular situation. Colin, you have showed true character not only during these last few months, but for the many years that I've been a fan/listener of yours. You don't allow yourself to be pushed around, and you always stand up, respectively of course, for what you believe in. You are who you are, and you are proud of that. It's quite refreshing to see a person with a spotlight and platform be like this. Thank You

Zack E

You are doing a great job Colin and I am glad to be able to support you in some small way. Keep up the good work.

Chris Canfield

This moved me to tears, Colin! I've said it over and over again, but I am so happy for you and impressed by you. This whole process has been inspiring. I go to a school where there is only one way that is safe and appropriate to think, where you are attacked or silenced for having an alternative perspective or different opinion. Watching you stand up for what's right and for the importance of genuine dialogue in the past months has made me feel like this echo chamber doesn't have to be my whole world, and just because the loudest voices are screaming that it's the only decent way to be, doesn't actually make that kind of oppression okay. I figure if you can handle the incredible pressure and vitriol you've dealt with, I can probably handle the pushback of my classmates. Anyway, thank you for creating this space and putting out the content you do.

Lacey Hart

Congratulations and thanks go to you Colin. Can't wait to see what the future holds cause I love CLS already. Take care and good luck

Great work so far Colin, long time fan. I just know that it will get even better with time. It's your honesty and principles that draws people in and ultimately makes us all fans of content we might not normally associate with. Wish your old friends had your back but It's in the past, best forgotten and the future looks like a better place for you all round! Thanks for introducing me to new ideas and new people(Rubin etc) with different content to make me think. Would love to see an episode on your brexit/European political scene opinions. Don't over do the work and enjoy your new home and city thanks for all you do. love from the UK fans.

Perfect platypus

You are an inspiration Colin. I aspire to be as fulfilled in my life as well through discipline and hard work.

Beautifully said, excited to be on this journey with you.

Lewis Priday

Nice use of the word "maelstrom". Beyond!

four24twenty

Damn Colin, making me all teary-eyed and shit.

You're my dude.

Caleb Greer

I don't even watch most of the content you put out, as it's just not my thing - but you still get my buck a month. Purely for standing up and saying 'no' to the insane echo chamber babies who think they can control the world by telling people what they can and can't say. Not only that, but for doing precisely what you want to do, and doing it successfully in such a short space of time. You're leading by example, and the world needs more people with big balls, be it physical or metaphorical.

Ben Goulden

Fucking love ya Colin, I feel smarter after every video and news burst you send. That being said eat some damn food man =D

Hamad Taher

I wish I had something just as moving or as heartfelt to say as this, but I don't. All I have is the request that you keep staying real, genuine and honest. Don't give up or give in or compromise. Just stay true to yourself. You will change and we will evolve with you, and that final result after the change and evolution is what will truly be special. So, yeah. Don't fuck it up ;)

Ryan Berry

Kudos to you Colin for creating your own dreams and finding happiness in everyday. I can't lie, I'm envious. Not of your earnings or notoriety, but of your creativity, genuine nature and the big smile on your face for living your dream. You Rock! It's amazing how a few short months and taking some very brave leaps can change your reality. You truly inspire so many to be seekers of knowledge and reason in this seemingly senseless time. Keep being "full Colin" (Sorry for the KF reference) and only more great things will come for you, your loved ones and the CLS community.

Casey Lloyd

you were what drew me to ign and beyond, you're what made me a member of team fat and a kinda funny fan, and you're the reason i'm more interested and aware of politics today. i'll follow whatever you do, man. love and respect.

rrice64

You have always had the ability to touch my heart in some way every single day. Thank you for this beautiful note- and for sharing your passion for history, politics, science and so much more. Your thirst for knowledge continues to be contagious. Perfectly awesome. 😉❤️😘

BettyAnn Moriarty

Been with you for a number of years watching and appreciating all you do to speak and be true to yourself. You've inspired me (and many of us) more than you'll ever know. For that, I'll be forever grateful and loyal. Happy to continue supporting you through this and all future endeavors.

Derek Kelsheimer

True happiness is rare these days. Hold on to this feeling as much as you can. Keep up the great work.

The whole break down of the relationship with Greg still sits in the forefront of my mind when I engage with CLS. I dont blame Colin for any of it obviously, but the Kinda Funny Guys making out that everything is amicable etc will never sit right with me. Especially when I read heartfelt messages like this from Colin about how he felt, makes me angry =/

BurpleMan

Makes me a little sad to read the part about friends, allies, and the city you've been apart of for so long, but I'm thrilled to hear how much you're into this new path you've found yourself on. Sorry it took some rough events for it to happen, but sometimes that's what it takes man. #keeponlearning

Owen

I would totally love this. I'd double my pledge!

Jason Kelley

Hey Colin, Its so great to hear that this life change has been so fulfilling for you. Over the past three or so years of seeing you on IGN and The Gameovergreggy Show I have actually learned a lot of interesting--and some silly-- things. You have actually had a big musical influence on me oddly enough. Dredg and 311 are now two of my favorite bands and now play 4 instruments in the past 2 years. I myself have had a life change over the last year, and this event in your life is yet another reassurance that I have come across that I myself am headed in the right direction. It is so amazing what you have done and it is so cool to come along. PS. I took my APUSH exam today. I think it went well. :)

Chris Johan

Love you man. Keep your head up. You're a good person and you have lots of friends out there. Even ones you've never met. I'm happy that you are happy. I know what happened a month ago sucked for a lot of people, myself included (it was tough to see you guys have a falling out. It was as if a group of my friends were fighting and there was nothing I could do to help), but it's good to see everyone ultimately landed in their feet. Keep up the good work. Dan

Dan Phillips

I know it's water under the bridge for you (probably) and it's definitely none of my business but I can't help but think that Greg and Tim, just let you down. Greg especially. Know that I may not agree with you 💯 percent of the time but I got your back. As someone who was such a fan of the "coolest dudes in videogames" it hurt me to see Greg turn his back on you basically. In my opinion he should have defended you and your tweet. Just very very weird to see that happen after years of what seemed like a great relationship between you two folks. But everything happens for a reason. I, will always wish the best for you Colin.

Gustavo

I got your back homie.

I would gladly pledge more if I were more financially sound. Don't work yourself too hard Colin. I'll take 1 episode a week if that means you can take a break. I'm sure many others feel the same

Colin, Thank you for being yourself and standing up for what you believe in. I have been with you since the Beyond/IGN days. It wasn't until you left KF that I realized you are what I cared most about. It is your opinions on life, politics, games, historym etc. that kept me coming back. The day you left KF, I left KF (not that you want them to fail). It wasn't even a second thought in my mind, it just felt right. Since then, you have made me look at what my interests are. Never have I been so engaged in following Politics or wanting to learn about history. I actually picked up book (Shattered: HRC Campaign demise...) for the first time since high school. I have you to thank for being my fuel for wanting to learn. Your Friend, -Scott

Reythan

After 10 episodes, I think your success is because you're nimble. You can experiment with format. You can evolve the value proposition of your patreon tiers. No studio rent or group votes on what Colin Moriarty can and cannot be. Work hard, trust your balls, and your craftsmanship will be honed like Hattori Hanzō steel.

Jeremy Meyer

Cheers man! Beauty is the end Steve-O!! Yes I pulled an SLC Punk reference! But I find it fitting. We should always remain uncomfortable so as to push ourselves. And to remain uncompromising when it comes to our core values. That's not to say it's good to dismiss other's ideas and beliefs but if you reach out for the common ground and it's not reciprocal than Fuck Em! Take care and have fun in L.A.! You got a friend in NoCal always!

Bryan Silva

Glad to see you doing what you love, it's one of the reasons I support you on Patreon. Watching you take leaps of faith to grow and do what truly matters to you reminds me I can, and perhaps should be, leaping as well. So I help out as I can, and always will when i'm able. Funny thing is, initially you were a personality that drove me away from Podcast Beyond. I couldn't put my finger on why you rubbed me the wrong way at first but eventually I realized I find you to be too much like me (and apparently I can only handle so much of that). From there, while I didn't always agree with the stances you took, I grew to deeply respect the way you communicated yourself, and the principles you stick to. Continued wishes of success and much respect your way Colin, keep working hard, and for me at least, i'll keep following and supporting.

Awesome dude! I think we would all find value if you did a daily blog, no edits, just you babbling about current events, that would be awesome! Even if you never do that I will always support you man, I find a lot of value in your content.

Ten thousand words of truth.

Jeremy Meyer

Your doing your best and the videos released have shown it. I watch news organizations now with extreme skepticism and find that there's few people telling it as it is like you do. I'm glad you've made such great new friendship with Reuben and other people interested in politics. Friendships have falling outs and I hope eventually you'll mend some in the future. I like the KF community and I wish they had your back like all of us here on patreon. I do hope that you'll keep progressing down this road and who knows, I hope Greg Miller extends that olive branch in the future and brings you on as a special guest. I know friendships are ruined easily but I have a feeling he feels just as bad losing such a long time best friend. One thing I've learned in life is not to give up on friendship, unless they douse the bridge with gasoline and set it on fire. Keep being you Colin, that's all we ask.

John Barton

This is awesome Colin - I'm so glad you're happy. I was distraught to see you leave kinda Funny, listening to you and Greg had been one of my favourite things for years and years and I had grown comfortable with your friendship, it made me feel good to be a part of that. But to hear that you weren't truly happy, and that you are now is the most important thing. I know you and Greg did a show together after and there aren't any hard feelings out in public, but I truly hope you and Greg remain good friends, the chemistry you two had together wasn't just for the cameras or the mic's, you could feel that it was real, and that's why everyone loved you both. It's been tough getting my head around where to go next, but I know I will always try and support you and I hope Greg finds a way to make great content without his partner in crime too. Much love man - but don't ever forget, keep fuckin' that chicken.

Simon Winstanley

Keep it up Colin!! Cant wait for your episode on Dunkirk after you teased it on twitter

Awesome stuff, Colin! I couldn't be happier for ya! You've earned my respect and support!

Alex Perkins

Totally relate to this, Colin was my draw to KF as he was the most relatable to me in that crew (also from LI, Hauppauge in the house). Since Colin's exodus I find myself drifting father away from the KF community and look forward more to CLS' content as the weeks go on, however, it would be sad to me to hear that Colin/Greg's relationship is over after all these years.

Brad Russell [Toukz]

Very excited to see where it all goes from here Colin. You keep up the good work.

We've always been here for you, Colin. And we always will be. It's funny, as you went through these major life changes, I did as well in my own life. Though you've inspired me to understand that I am more than what I have been. I too looked at my life and said "This is what I'll do/who I'll be forever. " I've learned to follow my dreams and open my eyes to who I can become. Thank you Colin for everything you've done, even if you don't realize it. Enjoy your weekend, brother!

Always here, ya numb-nuts! Happy to support and learn with you.

Khalil Sadi

I would just hope that your old crew at KF is not on the list of friends you have fell off with. I am happy that I came to KFL 2 and got to say hello to you. As a boy from Long Island myself, you were my biggest connection to that channel. But I'm even more excited for the future of CLS.

Tasur Seen

Fight on, Colin!!

Guillaume Drouin

Damn, Colin, I really regret not approaching to shake your hand a few months ago when i saw you in Fort Mason's Off the Grid (sorry if that sounds creepy/stalker-ish in any way), i just didn't want to be annoying. You are an inspiration, and a truly amazing person. Respect, my friend.

Unfortunately, I also know what it's like to lose long-time friends because of fundamental differences that surface, sometimes unexpectedly. But you kept your head up, and stayed true to yourself, as difficult as it must've been for you. The amount of grit and work ethic you've shown during this situation is truly inspirational.

Scott Rabideau

Goddamnit I hope I have an opportunity to shake your hand one day, Colin. You are and amazing person.

It makes me happy knowing you are happy!! Proud of you!!

Jeff Pollard

You deserve all your success! We'll continue to follow and support! #ColinWasRight

Rolando Vargas

My boy Colin M. Fellow New Yorker here (Brooklyn boy) and I'm so happy that you are happy. I've been watching you and hearing your content for years and I could tell that you weren't happy or content. Even before the tweet heard round the world. I'm loving the content you're making now. You've exposed me to to issues and content that I have no problem in admitting I had no idea about. Rubin Report? Can't miss it now. Was completely oblivious to some of the topical "political" stuff going on. Especially with the regressive left. Now you've put me on. I want to thank you.

Gustavo

I love how authentic and organic you are, Colin. I often don't agree with your political takes, but what draws me here is that I know I can trust you to be an intelligent and good source of information on conservative politics. You inspire me to be great. Keep being great.

Drew Packard

You continue to be such an inspiration to me, Colin. I really hope you know how proud we are of you. Seeing you be able to just walk away and come through more self-assured and successful than ever is what's giving me the courage now to leave my current job and shoot for my real dreams. Thank you, and never stop being you.

Evan Bederman

One thing that this note reminds me of specifically is how good of a writer Colin is. The news blasts show this fact as well, but long form Colin I just can't stop reading. I hope he can still write that book he was thinking about someday. Sign me up for the first to buy it.

Matt Styka

You understand that you have been a part of all of our own personal expiriences too Colin. Intrinsically linked, as you say. Over the years things you have said, perspectives given or jokes made have lead us to feeling relieved from our day to day stress or just that somone else in the world can see through the bullshit with some clarity. When the time came that we could pay that back, we wanted to, because you are in some way a rallying point for a certain way of thinking. A different and open ideology that has room for free thought, and a value in intelligence over ignorance. Much love and Respect to you Colin. ✌

You deserve all of your success, but make sure you take some time for yourself. You can't burn this hot forever, and trying never ends well. I'm really glad you two are so happy in your new life.

Your growth is reflected in myself as a fan, Colin. For years, I've followed you and at times asked myself why. Video games, for as often as I play them, were pointless distractions but I loved hearing your thoughts. As my interests shifted to politics and world news I struggled to find a reliable source of information; as red as my home state of Idaho is, my city of Boise is a blue college town. Your shift of the game industry wasn't just cathartic for you but I find it reciprocated in myself as a consumer. I'll certainly keep my eye on the IGN's of the world but I take peace in knowing I'm more invested in the world around me. You incited this growth in my at IGN and Kinda Funny through off-hand comments or rants but seeing yourself become fully committed to the content of Colin's Last Stand is comforting. I care about my world and the discussions we have in it. Thank you for all. As long as you're captaining this ship I will gladly stoke the fires.

Cannonball_Jones

Wow. Didn't expect this today. What an amazing thought out heartfelt reflection on the past and future. It's been a great ride so far Colin and I know the future is bright for you and CLS.

Josh in Tampa

Been loving CLS and it's amazing to see you grow and work. Excited to see where it eventually leads. You are well worth the 10 bucks a month.

Britton Dowers

Keep being you Colin, that's all any of us can ask and let the chips fall where they may. I'm sure all these changes took a lot from and out of you but I'm glad you have landed on your feet and I'm happy I get to be here to take this ride with you.

You've done great. And been an inspiration to many, including me. I decided to start writing because of you, and a year and a half later it's what I do for a living. Can't wait for what's next and to see how CLS evolves. You're a good dude.

Samuel

The content has been fantastic so far. You should be proud of what you've done. You speak for many of us who feel we don't have a voice, even sometimes among those we call friends. Keep it up man and we'll follow you till the end (hopefully a long long time from now).

Adam Niksch

Glad you are happy Colin. I don't always agree with you, but I respect you no end. You're a fucking inspiration and I'll support you for as long as it's viable for me to do so. Just keep giving us the goods and I'll keep the support coming.

Russell Garrett

Your content has been nothing short of amazing, your hard work and dedication show in every episode. Keep up the good work.

Brian Fagan

Keep kicking ass Colin. As long as you're enjoying what you're doing, we'll see that in your work and enjoy it just the same. Couldn't be happier for you!

You're the man, Colin. Absolutely loving the content and so stoked to be a small part of your awesome journey. Keep fighting the good fight 👊 thank you for the learning, the entertainment and the inspiration.

Luke Drake

So glad to be along for the ride. We could all see how passionate you were with this stuff for years, along with those new fans since the first interview with Dave. Keep it up. Spread that knowledge!

Fred Bence

God bless man

What you do is amazing and truly an inspiration I'll always be in your corner

Michael Choueiri

Happy for you brother

Evans

Ps I love you Colin<3

Winter


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