Hey Steemit, I'm Brent

Hey everyone, my name is Brent Hale and this is my first Steemit post.

I stumbled onto Steemit after becoming more interested in cryptocurrency last year. I have written about computer hardware (and building computers) on my own website for the past six years and, so, when Ethereum exploded in price last year and the graphics card market got decimated, I felt the need to look more into blockchain technology.

From there, I bought my first cryptocurrency (ETH) and started visiting the ETHTrader subreddit. And, that is where I started seeing Steemit posts pop up.

A couple of weeks ago, I finally decided to create an account, and just a few days ago I was approved.

So, now, I think, the fun begins!

Who I Am

In 2012, I started a computer hardware website (EliteGamingComputers.com) where I provided guides and reviews on how to build a gaming computer. And, I have been fortunate enough to write for my site full time for the majority of those six years.

Recently, I moved the site to TechGuided.com so that I can cover a broader range of topics, such as 3D printing, virtual reality, drones, blockchain technology, etc. I also run a YouTube channel connected to the site as well.

Here's a video from my channel. It's an overview/time-lapse video of the current gaming computer/workstation that I built for myself:

Now, I'm looking to supplement my writing and videos from my own site and YouTube channel by writing on Steemit and cross-posting my videos on DTube. (Is that even allowed?)

Personal Life

I'm a husband and I have two sons (age 3 and 1). I'm a pretty big sports fan, I love all things tech-related, I'm a gamer (although, I don't play as much as I used to), a reader, and I like to stay in shape.

I mostly read business/self-improvement/how-to types of books, but if I read fiction it's usually fantasy fiction (A Song of Ice and Fire, First Law Trilogy, The Legends of the First Empire, etc.)

Overall, I'm a pretty laid back person. I spend the majority of my time with my family or working. And, for me, that's all I really need!

Why I'm On Steemit

Well, first off, to create content!

My plan for right now is to write on the tech topics that I am familiar with.

I also really like the premise behind Steemit's more open platform. I think that a lot of smaller content creators are feeling spurned right now by the new guidelines and censorship that are taking place on YouTube and Facebook, and I think its important to have options like Steemit that are more open.

Finally, I like the monetization method of Steemit. Now, I know that the common sentiment is that we shouldn't be here for the money. And, I agree. But the potential to make some money, without having to run display ads or use affiliate links, is pretty appealing!

And, at the very least, I feel like Steemit has a ton of potential to become a leading online content platform. So, I feel like getting onto the platform now could pay off in the long run if/when Steemit gets to mainstream appeal.

All-in-all, though, I'm excited to be here and to start creating some content!

Thanks to anyone who takes the time to read this!