By Gene Galin
Pittsboro, NC – Jon Reyes, a professional scooter rider and YouTube sensation, has captivated audiences with his thrilling tricks and engaging content. With over a million subscribers on YouTube, Reyes reflects on his journey from riding in the streets of New York City to becoming a prominent figure in the world of action sports. On Tuesday morning at the 79 West Breakfast Club, Reyes shared insights into his career, the impact of digital media, and his mission to inspire others through his platform.
The Rise of a Professional Scooter Rider
Early Beginnings
Jon Reyes began his journey into the world of scooter riding at a young age. Growing up in New York City, he spent countless hours honing his skills in local skate parks and streets. “I’ve been riding for 23 years,” Reyes shared, emphasizing his deep-rooted passion for the sport. His dedication paid off when he turned professional, allowing him to compete in international competitions and work with sponsors.
The Transition to YouTube
Reyes’s journey on YouTube was not without its challenges. Initially, he uploaded videos primarily for personal enjoyment, capturing his tricks and the camaraderie of riding with friends. However, it was not until he embraced the platform fully that he began to see significant growth.
Reyes’s entry into the digital world began as a way to document his rides and share them with friends. He started uploading small videos just for fun. However, as he gained traction, he realized the potential of YouTube as a platform to reach a broader audience. YouTube unlocked possibilities for Jon, allowing him to connect with fans and fellow riders beyond the confines of local competitions.
Achieving Milestones
Recently, Reyes celebrated a significant milestone—reaching one million subscribers on his YouTube channel. “It feels amazing,” he said, reflecting on the achievement. “I try to think of each subscriber as a friend who found value in what I do.” This perspective highlights Reyes’s genuine connection with his audience, viewing them not just as numbers but as individuals who find value in his content.
The Power of Content Creation
Understanding YouTube’s Landscape
In an age where content is king, Reyes emphasized the importance of creating engaging videos. Every minute, a staggering amount of content is uploaded to YouTube, noting that the competition for viewers’ attention is fierce. Reyes believes that the key to success lies in authenticity and passion. He advises aspiring creators that if you’re not enjoying what you do, it shows in your content.
The Journey of Daily Uploads
Reyes dedicated himself to uploading videos daily, a commitment that lasted over a thousand days. He explained, “I wasn’t focused on views; I just wanted to share what I loved.” This approach allowed him to build a loyal audience who appreciated his authenticity. One of his most successful videos came from a spontaneous adventure in Times Square, where he simply enjoyed riding with friends. “It was pure energy, and that resonated with viewers,” he remarked.
The Evolution of Viewer Engagement
As the digital landscape evolves, so do viewer expectations. Reyes noted a significant shift in attention spans, stating, “You have about three seconds to hook your viewers.” This realization has led him to adapt his content style to capture attention quickly. He likened it to movie trailers, where the problem and solution are presented right away to engage the audience.
Navigating the Digital Landscape
The Challenge of Multiple Platforms
With the rise of various social media platforms, creators often feel pressured to diversify their content. Reyes acknowledged this challenge but emphasized that each platform offers unique opportunities to connect with different audiences. He sees it as a chance to reach more people, encouraging creators to embrace the diversity of platforms rather than feel overwhelmed.
The Importance of Consistency
Reyes’s commitment to consistency has been a cornerstone of his success. He likened his approach to a subscription service like Netflix, where viewers expect regular content. “Even if only one person watches” he keeps going, highlighting the importance of perseverance in building an audience.
Inspiring Others Through Action Sports
A Mission Beyond Entertainment
Reyes has recognized a higher calling in his work: to inspire others. He believes that many individuals overcomplicate their pursuits, whether in business or personal projects. “It’s not really about the structure, it’s the mindset you have to have to post consistently,” he advised. By shifting focus from metrics and algorithms to the value of content, creators can foster genuine connections with their audiences.
The Impact of Community
Living in a community-oriented environment, Reyes has seen firsthand the power of collaboration and support among creators. He shared insights about his move from New York City to a quieter area, where he could focus on his content and connect with local businesses. He emphasized the importance of community in nurturing creativity.
The Road Ahead
Jon Reyes’s journey from a young scooter rider in New York to a YouTube sensation serves as an inspiring testament to the power of passion, consistency, and community. His insights into content creation highlight the importance of authenticity in a world saturated with digital noise. As he continues to ride and create, Reyes remains committed to his mission of inspiring others to pursue their passions, reminding us all that success is not just about numbers but about the meaningful connections we forge along the way.
View on YouTube – Professional Scooter Rider Jon Reyes at 79 West Breakfast Club – 2.11.25
Professional scooter rider Jon Reyes discusses his journey, YouTube success, and the impact of online content creation.
00:17 Jon Reyes discusses his YouTube journey and the significance of reaching 1 million subscribers.
- He emphasizes viewing subscribers as friends who found value in his content, rather than just a number.
- Reyes highlights the vast amount of content on YouTube and the challenge of capturing viewers’ interest in such a competitive landscape.
02:30 Jon Reyes shares insights on starting as a professional scooter rider.
- He emphasizes the importance of simply creating content rather than overthinking social media strategies.
- Reyes explains that his commitment to professional scootering began with uploading videos to YouTube, expanding his reach beyond local competitions.
04:55 Jon Reyes reflects on his YouTube journey and viral moments.
- He began uploading videos primarily to showcase his skills and respond to audience requests for behind-the-scenes content.
- A pivotal moment came when a video he enjoyed making went viral, leading to significant viewer engagement.
07:09 Jon Reyes emphasizes passion and fun in content creation over trick performance.
- Reyes shares his spontaneous experience in Times Square, focusing on enjoying the ride rather than performing tricks.
- He reflects on the importance of following instincts and the value of producing daily content aimed at engaging viewers.
09:09 Jon Reyes discusses the challenges and strategies of succeeding on YouTube.
- He emphasizes the importance of passion and authenticity in content creation to engage viewers.
- Reyes reflects on the significance of consistency and overcoming metrics anxiety in building a successful presence.
11:17 Jon Reyes discusses strategies for engaging audiences via social media.
- He emphasizes the importance of presenting problems and solutions to capture viewers’ attention, akin to movie teasers.
- Reyes addresses challenges for content creators adapting to various platforms and managing legacy content effectively.
13:29 Jon Reyes emphasizes mindset and community impact in business.
- He highlights the importance of having a positive mindset to create value for others.
- Reyes encourages listeners to focus on their mission rather than overcomplicating business structures.
15:36 Jon Reyes discusses life in New York and real estate trends.
- He shares positive experiences of video-making in New York, emphasizing collaboration with local businesses.
- Reyes compares New York real estate prices to those in North Carolina, noting significant cost differences.