Life on Zonk Media

Why I'm Going to Celebration, Florida Because of Adam the Woo

Tue, 27 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

On a crisp 62-degree morning cruising around Simi Valley on my scooter, I’m reflecting on something that’s been on my mind for months: my upcoming trip to Celebration, Florida. It’s hard to explain without sounding a little strange, but this journey exists because of Adam the Woo. I’m heading to Central Florida to see my brother and his family for the first time, and then I’m going to spend time in the places that were the backdrop for so many of Adam’s walks and talks—the videos I watched after he passed that changed how I see the power of recording your life. But here’s the thing that really gets me: I’m not entirely sure if I’ll actually go see his house, and that decision has been weighing on me in ways I didn’t expect.

Why I Stopped Hitting Record

Sat, 03 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

I’m back after a few weeks away from the channel, and honestly? I’ve been in my own head about a lot of things. The main reason for the silence is work—a major project I’ve been building for the past year finally went live, and it led to a promotion that I’m genuinely grateful for but also weirdly anxious about. It’s that strange feeling when good things happen and you don’t quite know how to process them.

My 52nd Birthday Didn't Go As Planned And It Left Me With One Wish

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

I turned 52 on September 12th, and while the day didn’t quite go as planned, it ended up being the catalyst for something more meaningful. Rachel and I had this beautiful day mapped out in Carpinteria with an old friend from fourth grade—wine tasting, sunset, dinner, the whole thing. Some of it happened exactly as imagined, though not without some unexpected allergic reaction drama thrown in for good measure. But here’s the thing: I didn’t get enough footage to make a proper vlog about it, so instead I’m sitting in my dimly lit room the next day with a 3D print of an Atari 800XL running in the background, trying to articulate something that’s been weighing on me.

My Thoughts on Adam the Woo's 52nd Birthday

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

Today, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on Adam the Woo and what would have been his 52nd birthday. I’ll be honest—I don’t have the same deep personal connection with Adam that so many of his devoted followers do, but that doesn’t diminish the profound impact he’s had on my life and perspective. His passing hit me in a way I didn’t expect, and I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about the legacy he left behind and what it means for people like me who are trying to live more intentionally.

I Dreaded This Goodbye. Then I Understood Adam the Woo.

Sun, 02 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

Yesterday, I drove up to Bakersfield for my friend Claire’s celebration of life, and I’ll be honest—I really didn’t want to go. I carpooled with Ryan, my best friend since first grade back in 1980, and the drive gave me plenty of time to sit with my feelings about it all. When we got there, Claire’s parents said something that completely shifted my perspective on why I was even there. They asked me to speak, and even though I didn’t feel like I nailed it, standing up in front of everyone and sharing about Claire ended up being one of the better things I’ve done all year.

I'm 52. My Childhood Friend Died. I'm Dreading the Funeral & Don't Have the Words

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

At 52 years old, I’m facing something I’ve been dreading: the funeral of a childhood friend who recently lost her battle with pancreatic cancer. This isn’t just about saying goodbye to someone from my past—it’s about confronting the weight of loss and the reality that people from your formative years aren’t going to be around forever. What’s hitting me hardest isn’t just the sadness itself, though that’s definitely overwhelming. It’s the feeling of being completely at a loss for words. How do you sum up a lifelong friendship? How do you express grief that feels too big to articulate? I’m heading to this celebration of life knowing I’ll probably struggle to find the right things to say, and that uncertainty is adding to the heaviness I’m carrying into this.

Creator Community Saved Me From Depression! #shorts

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

I’ve been pretty open about my struggles with depression, and honestly, one of the things that pulled me out of that dark place was something I didn’t expect—the creator community. When you’re depressed, your instinct is to isolate yourself, to withdraw from everything and everyone. But I started following creators like Faith who weren’t afraid to share their real lives, their struggles, and their growth. Watching them be so vulnerable and authentic online made me feel less alone. It sounds simple, but knowing that other people were going through similar stuff and still pushing forward? That changed something in me.

Less of a Vlogger... More Like the Satire Channels That Comment on Vloggers

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

I wanted to address some feedback I got from my last video—specifically, the idea that my heart isn’t in vlogging anymore. Let me be clear: that’s not true. I’m still genuinely invested in this channel and what I create here. But I also want to be honest about what I am and what I’m not. I’m not going to become a daily vlogger, and I’m definitely not going to chase the kind of content that exists in what some people call the “Wooverse.” I have immense respect for creators like Adam the Woo and others who operate in that space, but that’s just not the path I’m on.

I Should Stop Vlogging. I Am Simply Not Good At It. I Probably Won't Stop Though.

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

I’m going to be honest with you—I’m not great at vlogging. I know it. You probably know it. My video titles are clunky, my descriptions don’t exactly scream ‘click me,’ and I’m definitely not following any of the YouTube algorithm best practices that everyone says you should follow. So why do I keep doing this? Well, after taking a 30-day break, I realized something pretty important: I actually love making videos, even if I’m not particularly skilled at it yet.

I Almost Stopped Making Videos

Tue, 19 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

I almost didn’t come back. It’s been 19 days since I posted anything, and honestly, I wasn’t sure I was going to make another video. When I started this channel, I had specific reasons—I needed to work through some heavy stuff like loss and mortality, and I thought sharing that journey might help me process it all. But things didn’t go the way I expected. The channel didn’t do what I thought it would do, and somewhere along the way, I started questioning whether it was even worth continuing.

Claire Is Imprinted in My DNA

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

There are certain people who come into your life and fundamentally change who you are. For me, that person is Claire. We met when we were just ten years old, and in all the years since, she’s become woven into the fabric of my life in ways I can’t fully explain. She’s imprinted in my DNA—not literally, but in every way that matters. Today, I needed to sit down and make this video about her because some things are too important to leave unsaid. Some people shape the path you walk without you even realizing it’s happening. I’m still processing exactly what I wanted to convey, but I knew I had to try. This video is my attempt to honor that impact and acknowledge how deeply certain connections can mark us.

Kevin Mitnick's Password Was Embarrassingly Bad. I Never Said a Word.

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

Back in the early 2000s, I got invited to the TechTV set for what turned out to be Kevin Mitnick’s first television interview after his release from prison. Meeting him in person was surreal—this was the legendary hacker everyone had been talking about for years. What started as that chance meeting eventually led to me working with him to design his website, which meant he trusted me with access to things most people would never see. And that’s when something happened that I’ve kept to myself for the better part of two decades.

We Survived the Scooters. Barely. A Healing Mall Walk.

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

Rachel and I just had a bit of an adventure at the mall - and I’m happy to say we both survived it! Last week, Rachel had a nasty run-in with a scooter that left her with a broken arm and toe. Talk about a rough time. But she was finally feeling up to leaving the house, so we decided to take a healing mall walk at the Thousand Oaks Mall. Even though our local mall is mostly empty these days, this one still had some stores open, so we decided to check it out. We ended up having a pretty fun time - we found some banned books, judged an arcade, and longed for some candy. But the real highlight was our deep, meaningful conversation about the incredible craftsmanship of our friend Scott’s hair. Seriously, that guy’s hair is a work of art. Anyway, it was just nice to get out and about, even if it was at a slower pace than usual. Recovery looks good on us… well, on Rachel at least. I’m just the cameraman in this scenario!

The Trail Most Simi Valley Residents Drive Past Every Day

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

Most people in Simi Valley drive past this two-mile stretch of the Arroyo Simi Greenway every day without giving it a second thought. But my wife Rachel and I decided to change that. We hopped on our electric scooters and took a casual tour of Phase 1 of the Greenway, from Sequoia Avenue to Erringer Road. Along the way, we learned some interesting history about this trail. It was funded by a mix of state and local money, and took a while to complete - but the timing ended up being pretty fortuitous. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we noticed that foot traffic on the Greenway went way up as people looked for safe outdoor spaces to get some exercise and fresh air. It’s just a simple, pleasant two-mile stretch, but it’s a nice little piece of Simi Valley that’s worth knowing about. We had a great time exploring it, and we’re excited to share what we learned with you.

Nobody In My Real Life Knows I Do This

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

In this stream of consciousness video, I open up about a side of my life that almost no one in my real life knows about - my passion for vlogging. I talk about the complicated and rewarding nature of people, and how vlogging has introduced me to some incredible individuals. I also share a work situation that reminded me why people choose this path, and the surprise of a generous offer from a viewer. But the real revelation is the secret I’ve been keeping - the fact that almost no one in my day-to-day life knows about my online video presence. As a creator who’s kept my channel under wraps from those closest to me, this video hits particularly close to home. Through my raw and honest reflections, I invite my audience into this hidden part of my life and hope that others who have kept their creative pursuits private can find comfort and community in my story.

Talking to Yourself? Poop On Your Shoe? NO FEAR! #shorts

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

I have to admit, sometimes I just get a little lost in my own thoughts when I’m out and about. But hey, that’s all part of the fun, right? In this latest vlog, you’ll see me embracing my inner public spectacle – from having animated conversations with myself in the park to making a few questionable fashion choices at the grocery store. Honestly, I’m just living my best life, completely oblivious to the stares and giggles from the people around me. It’s all part of my own personal social experiment to see how far I can push the boundaries of acceptable public behavior. And you know what? I wouldn’t have it any other way. So join me on this unapologetic journey as I own every awkward moment, proving that sometimes the best way to live is to just stop caring what anyone else thinks.

Walk Past the 2026 Oscars Red Carpet Entrance #shorts

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

Today, I had the amazing opportunity to walk right past the 2026 Oscars red carpet entrance. As a huge movie fan, this was an absolute dream come true for me. Rachel and I were invited to take a private tour of the Dolby Theatre, where the Academy Awards ceremony is held each year. As we approached the iconic red carpet, I couldn’t believe my eyes. The pathway leading up to the entrance was even more impressive up close, with sleek black railings and plush red carpeting that seemed to go on forever. I felt like I was getting a sneak peek into the glamorous world of Hollywood’s biggest night. Rachel and I took our time strolling down the carpet, snapping photos and taking it all in. It was surreal to imagine the A-list stars who would soon be walking the same steps on their way to the show.

Our New Subscribers, Tom Wilson in Simi Valley, Health Checks and a Joyful Simi Valley Reunion

Sat, 14 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

Wow, what an exciting time for my personal vlog! Our subscriber count just keeps growing, and I can hardly believe it. It’s so rewarding to know that more and more people are tuning in to see the videos my wife Rachel and I create. We love interacting with all of you wonderful viewers in the comments - it truly makes this whole vlogging journey even more fulfilling. In this video, we cover a lot of ground. From my daughter’s not-so-happy day at school to my morning Huel routine (which almost led to a hilarious call to KROQ!), it’s clear that life in the Wilson household is always eventful. But the real highlight was our trip to Simi Valley, where we got to hang out with YouTube star Tom Wilson and run into our favorite bartender. And of course, we couldn’t leave without checking in with the team at Kaiser Permanente for an important health update on Rachel’s cancer journey. Through it all, we feel so grateful for the love and support of our growing community.

Embrace Life: Lessons from Loss and Hope #shorts

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

Life is precious, and sometimes it takes confronting mortality to truly appreciate that. Recently, I’ve been deeply inspired by the YouTube creator Adam the Woo and his message of seizing the day. After battling a serious illness alongside my wife Rachel, I’ve come to realize just how fleeting and fragile our time can be. Yet, within that fragility, I’ve also discovered an incredible resilience and a renewed sense of purpose. This video is my call to arms - a challenge to all of us to embrace life, to live fully, and to cherish each moment we’re given. It’s a message born of loss, but grounded in hope. Join me as I share the lessons I’ve learned and the renewed zest for life I’ve found in the face of life’s greatest uncertainties.

Feeling Out of Place Among Creators #shorts

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

I’ve been on this crazy journey of becoming a content creator, and recently I found myself at Adam the Woo’s Celebration of Life event. Surrounded by all these creators with massive followings, I couldn’t help but feel a little out of place. I was on the guest list, but the imposter syndrome hit me hard. As I looked around, I realized that my own journey is just beginning, and that’s okay. This experience reminded me that we all have to start somewhere, and it’s not about comparing ourselves to others. It’s about staying true to our passions and keeping the momentum going, even when we feel like we don’t belong.

A Cancer Journey & Adam the Woo's Celebration of Life Changed Us - This Is Why We Vlog

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

Wow, I’m still in shock over the incredible response to my last video. My wife Rachel and I never expected it to reach over 10,000 views and gain us hundreds of new subscribers. We’re so grateful and humbled by the support. As our new viewers get to know us, I want to make sure you understand that we’re not your typical vloggers. We’re not going to be taking you on Disney adventures or exploring abandoned locations like our friend Adam the Woo, who we recently honored at his Celebration of Life. Instead, our focus is on cherishing every moment we have left on this planet. Rachel’s cancer journey and Adam’s passing have really put life into perspective for us. We want to share our gratitude for simply being alive and inspire others to do the same. So while the content might be a bit different from what you’re used to, we hope you’ll stick around and join us on this meaningful journey. We can’t wait to connect with more of you and celebrate life together.

Filming the Stillwater River Boats Before Traveling from Minneapolis to Los Angeles

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

As I stood on the banks of the frozen Stillwater River, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder and awe. Being a California native, the sight of the icy water and the historic boats docked along the shore was a completely new experience for me. I had decided to swing by the Stillwater River Boats on my last morning in Minnesota, hoping to capture a few images before heading back to the warmth of Los Angeles. The early morning light cast a serene glow over the scene, and I took my time framing the perfect shots. While the town of Stillwater itself was relatively quiet, with most businesses still closed for the day, I was able to get a few nice shots of the historic downtown area. It made me realize that as I continue on this vlogging journey, I need to make more of an effort to explore the new places I visit, rather than just rushing through to my next destination. There’s so much beauty and wonder to be discovered, if only I take the time to look around.

Taking Our Feral Child On A Walk Through Target After Breakfast

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

Well, it’s another exciting day in the life of this vlogger! This morning, my wife Rachel and I had to take our little feral child on a walk through our local Target store to help him burn off some energy after breakfast. You see, if we don’t get this kid moving, he tends to completely lose his mind - and trust me, he’s already lost a good chunk of it! Kidding aside, it’s just a normal day of errands and preparation for an upcoming trip to Minneapolis. Nothing too crazy, just a quick shopping trip to get a few things we need. But you know what they say - with a toddler in tow, no trip to Target is ever truly ‘quick’! Between trying to keep him from destroying the entire store and negotiating with him over which snacks he can have, it’s quite the adventure. Still, I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Gotta love those little rascals, even on their wildest days.

My 14 Year Old Daughter Did WHAT to My Arcade Cabinet?!

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

This vlog starts on the drive home after dropping my daughter off at school, with a couple of false starts to get a natural take. I explain that I started calling her “daughter” a few years ago, inspired by the way Thanos says it in the Infinity Saga Avengers movies, and it just stuck. My mornings start early since I work for a company in the Central time zone, so by the time the school run rolls around I’ve already been online, checked on our sick dog Wicket, and watched an Adam the Woo video.

Valentine's Day is Today and Oops, I'm Not Prepared. Time for Last Minute Shopping!

Sat, 14 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

It’s Valentine’s Day and I am not prepared, which is probably not something I should admit on camera for the historical archive, but that’s how it goes with Valentine’s Day and me. I don’t feel too guilty, though, because Rachel said she was doing the exact same thing for me on her way home from the doctor’s office, so we’re loving each other equally today. I’m not great at this holiday, so I grabbed my son Dylan, who is the love doctor of the family. He already has his special lady and his gifts all set, and he just needed a few supplies for his Valentine’s Day picnic.

Zonk Drone at Chumash Park and Chumash Trail - Feburary 2026

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

I took my drone out for a test flight at Chumash Park. I’ve had it a couple of years but haven’t flown it in a year or more, so I’d forgotten how it works. The controls are smooth but sensitive, so the early footage is jerky, and it gets better as I get reacquainted. I also remember how to use the gimbal, so I can fly high and point the camera down.

Finding Hope in Creators on YouTube #hope #creator #youtubers #minnesota

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

With all the ugly things going on right now, it can really shake your faith in humanity. I found that stepping away from that and following people who aren’t talking about it, people who are just being creative, having fun and enjoying life, refocused me a little.

Key Points

Some of what’s happening right now can really shake my faith in humanity.
Watching creators on YouTube and TikTok who are being creative and enjoying life restored it.
The people I follow love their audiences and love to entertain and educate.
There’s a lot wrong with the world, but there’s also a lot that’s good.

This post was automatically generated from my YouTube video. Watch above or view directly on YouTube.

I Asked Gemini to Save My Dying Video. Here’s What It Said…

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

As a YouTuber who’s admittedly not great at the platform, I decided to turn to AI for help in boosting the performance of one of my recent videos that was struggling with just a single view. I reached out to Gemini, the impressive language model from Google, and asked them to audit my video and provide recommendations to enhance the title, thumbnail, and other packaging elements to improve its click-through rate and discoverability. Gemini provided a thorough analysis, suggesting title options that could create more curiosity and leverage trending topics like my mention of an AI podcast. They also gave ideas for a more compelling thumbnail design, advising against a simple screenshot and proposing concepts that visually convey the video’s varied content. Additionally, Gemini offered tips on optimizing the video description and tags. While some of their suggestions didn’t fully align with my personal goals for this channel, I found the insights invaluable and plan to apply them to future videos where boosting viewership is more of a priority.

Everything Has Changed (At the Park & In My Life)

Sun, 28 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Summary

I recently returned to Corriganville Park, a place I used to visit frequently with my kids but haven’t been to in years. Walking through the park brought back so many memories, but also made me reflect on how much life has changed. I explored the park’s history as a filming location for old westerns and spoke about my interest in the future of AI technology. Most importantly, I opened up about my wife’s brave battle with breast cancer, and how that has inspired me to start documenting our lives more. This park holds a special place in my heart, and rediscovering it has made me appreciate the importance of being present and making the most of every moment.