I figured I'd put my two cents in since I got mentioned.
I always try to warn people if my video is going to contain anything that might offends sensibilities. The "sl__ty costume" video had a message. The idea was to capture attention and then deliver a message about something that matters to me. I suppose I succeeded in my own way. My intentions were good.
And that's what I want to get at: I think most of the reviewers are pretty clear about their intentions. I know that I always try to make sure I am doing what I think is right and kind to those around me. I never attempt to mislead, no matter the offer. And trust me, I have been offered. I turn them down flatly.
As for the "freebies," I want you to consider a few things. First off, you have to buy equipment. Sure, you can use a borrowed "Microsoft Life-cam HD 3000" like I am. You will catch a lot of flack about how bad your sound/video/lighting quality is. I know I have. But, I don't complain because it was a gift from a friend, and I can't really afford better right now. Secondly, once people start sending you stuff (or me anyway) it isn't always stuff you want. I get piles of juice, and a lot of it is bad. Anyone remember the hot dog water? The dog farts? C'mon? You think I wanted to put that in my mouth? No, I felt obligated. These people went through the trouble to send me stuff, so I gotta review it. And that's how it is now. There's a pile of crap to be reviewed (some is kinda cool/exciting) and I don't look good enough to be on camera, the pipes are rattling non-stop and I can't remember who's supposed to be next. Half the time I have someone complaining that I haven't gotten to their review yet and checking up on package status. I've moved four or five times since I started reviewing, including living in a camper with limited electricity, and still kept reviewing.
At the end of the day, I think I have helped people stop smoking. In fact, I've received a little proof of that here or there. I think that's all we really want, we just lose sight of it sometimes. When we're struggling to make ends meet, and wishing we had some juice to vape, it seems pretty sweet to be a reviewer. The grass is always greener my friends. Keep vaping, keep advocating, and keep saving lives. We're all in this together.
Much love: Vape Girl