I don't buy this. The videos were always easily duped stick figures discussing obscure trivia. CGP Grey has always hated his audience. That was the point.

"AI" cannot imitate the personality or perspective, and that's all anyone ever really cared about. He can vent in any format and people still listen, hence the success with podcasts. That would be effortless and enjoyable unless there was a serious life event to cause a change in perspective (the money isn't it). That's what the leading speculation is.

You're projecting a type of struggle that may exist for you, but was never there for him. He pretty loudly stated multiple times in multiple ways that he was losing his edge, and that's just life.

It makes more sense that he thinks his new authentic self might be more damaging to the brand than abandoning it. He shouldn't be afraid to share the next chapter, but that's his struggle and choice.