SMALLISHBEANS

Joel, widely known by his online alias SmallishBeans, is a prominent British YouTuber celebrated for his engaging Minecraft content. Born on June 29, 1993, in York, England, Joel has captivated audiences with his creative gameplay and collaborations. As of 2025, he is 31 years old and continues to be a significant figure in the gaming community.

🏡 Early Life and Background

Joel grew up in Yorkshire, England, in a family passionate about education and the arts. His father, Steve, is a carpenter, and his mother, Jill, is a teacher and photographer. He has a younger sister named Thea. During his high school years, Joel attended Millthorpe School in York and was the drummer in a band, showcasing his early inclination towards creativity. 

📺 YouTube Career and Content

Channel Inception and Growth

Joel launched his YouTube channel, SmallishBeans, on October 4, 2008, initially focusing on Call of Duty content. His first video, titled "iBLaCKOuTz xX :: Saturation :: Editing Contest," showcased his editing skills. However, it was his transition to Minecraft content that significantly boosted his popularity. His first Minecraft video, "Welcome to Lad Ville - Minecraft episode 1," was uploaded on April 22, 2011. 

Content Style and Popularity

SmallishBeans is renowned for his imaginative building skills and participation in various Minecraft series, including Empires SMP, X Life SMP, and Hermitcraft. His content often features elaborate builds, storytelling, and collaborations with other creators. As of 2025, his channel boasts over 3.9 million subscribers and more than 1 billion views.

Collaborations and Community Engagement

Joel frequently collaborates with fellow YouTubers, most notably his wife Lizzie, known online as LDShadowLady. The couple has participated in various series together, including "Minecraft Versus," where they competed in challenges, with the winner lighting a Redstone lamp on their "Totem Pole of Victory." 

🌐 Online Presence and Personal Interests

Beyond YouTube, Joel maintains an active presence on social media platforms:

• Instagram: 

• Twitter:

• Twitch: 

He also runs a secondary channel, SmallishStreams, where he uploads VODs of his livestreams. 

💑 Personal Life

Joel met fellow YouTuber Lizzie (LDShadowLady) at GameFest in 2011. They began dating in early 2012, got engaged in November 2017, and married in May 2019. The couple shares their home with a dog named Meri. 

🌟 Legacy and Impact

SmallishBeans has carved a unique niche in the online gaming world with his entertaining and creative content. His contributions to the Minecraft community, combined with his engaging personality, have earned him a dedicated fanbase. Through his content, Joel continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.