Paradox Gaming Network – Reflecting on the Journey, Embracing What’s Next

It has been nearly nine years since Paradox Gaming Network first came to life. This update is long overdue.

Paradox began in 2014 as a simple ArcheAge guild. There were no grand ambitions—just a group of players and a basic website with a few written guides. Over time, dreams grew within the community. People envisioned a YouTube channel, a Twitch presence, and a team of creators working under one umbrella. Unfortunately, that plan didn’t fully materialize. This is why all my content lives under the Paradox Gaming Network brand instead of being tied solely to my personal name.

For years, I treated content creation as a hobby. There was a bit of ad revenue here, a few Twitch subs there, but I had no interest in monetizing seriously. Then in 2018, a community member who appreciated my ArcheAge guides urged me to start a Patreon so he could support the work. I hesitated. He convinced me that funding could enable more possibilities. That advice changed everything.

A change in tax law in 2019 pushed me to make a choice: shut it all down or evolve. The community supported the next step, and in 2020, Paradox Gaming Network, Inc. became official. That incorporation changed the paperwork, not the mission. The heart of the project remains the same—a community-first approach.

Where Things Stand Today

Every year brings new lessons. Progress has been steady. One major development has been the launch of PGN Music, now home to over 500 DMCA-free tracks. These songs are available for streamers, YouTubers, game devs, and content creators. Although PGN Makes its music available CC BY-SA (Creative Commons, By Attribution ShareAlike), PGN Music retains all rights, and I own PGN Music, there’s no risk of losing monetization over future rights transfers.

2025 Goals

1. Shift Focus to PGN Music Our goal is to expand our catalog to 700 tracks by the end of the year and to surpass one-million Spotify Plays this year. To do that we need to average 2,740 plays per day. As it stands right now we are at 392,916, however, and we are hitting on average 2300 - 3000 players per day. We are hoping to have a strong holiday season this year.  
2. Dedicate Streaming to Two Distinct Areas

• Politics, News, Real Life: Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 10 am Eastern
• Gaming: Thursday and Saturday at 10 am Eastern Coverage of Ashes of Creation is no longer part of our content, but may resume when their Alpha 2 Phase 3 begins.  

1. Maintain Weekly YouTube Content The goal is to continue delivering weekly videos covering both gaming and real-world topics.
2. Strengthen the Community Community support and development remain a central pillar.
3. Raise $2,000 for Extra Life This year’s target reflects current capabilities while maintaining our charitable efforts. Money is tight, and we understand this. So far in 2025 we have $175 in the matching fund to help try to get some money for the kids in the Children's Miracle Network.  

Where the Money Goes

Transparency matters. In 2024, Paradox had a lean year, bringing in just over $5,400, with $1,766 paid in taxes.

Breakdown of 2024 spending:

• Music Production: $1,130
• Advertising: $200
• Mandatory & Professional Services: $485
• Video Production Services: $730
• Domains & Hosting: $573
• Charitable Donations (Extra Life): $432

Where the Money Does Not Go

None of it goes into my pocket. PGN, Inc. does not pay me a salary. It does not cover gear, games, costumes, or personal expenses. I’m not here to get rich—I’m here to build something meaningful.

Why Build a Community?

The world can be a tough place. As Rocky Balboa said, “It’s not about how hard you hit. It’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward.” I’m fortunate. I retired at 39 and now spend my time gaming and helping others. That means offering more than just gameplay. It means helping people build resumes, choose colleges, understand mortgages, and fix credit. Every week, we make a difference for someone. That is what matters most.

Why Instructional Videos?

My background is in education. I hold a Master’s degree and taught for 3.5 years before and after 9/11. I’ve loved video games since I was three. Creating guides lets me combine teaching with gaming in a way that helps others succeed. No one should feel overwhelmed by poorly explained mechanics or be left out of the conversation. I aim to create evergreen content that answers questions clearly, thoroughly, and accessibly.

Why Use “We”?

People ask why I say “we” when I’m the one making the videos. The truth is that I’m not the most important part of this. Without viewers, commenters, supporters, and contributors, there is no Paradox. This is a community project, and the credit belongs to all of us.

Will Videos Ever Cost Money?

No. Videos will remain free on YouTube—now and always. The Patreon is optional and exists for those who want to support the work. Watching, liking, and sharing the videos is already a tremendous help.

The Road Ahead

• PGN Music becomes the primary focus. Expanding the music catalog and supporting our composers is now the priority.
• Streaming continues:
• Gaming: Thursdays and Saturdays
• News, politics, and life topics: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays
• YouTube videos return. Content will cover both games and real-world discussions.
• A personal note: I owe you an apology. Between surgery and two health scares in 2025, updates fell by the wayside. That changes now. It’s time to focus again.

If you have questions or want to connect, my door is open. This is still a community effort—and we’re just getting started.

—Jahlon