If you rely on Youtube ad revenue, they control you. As we've seen during the previous 8 years or so, when you say something that goes against the narrative that Youtube wants to push, your videos get demonitized.
Regardless of the platform, as soon as you get some traction, it's best to start building private memberships or some other form of income stream.
Should be titled "A Few of the Most Popular YouTubers aren't..."