I joined Steemit in May'16. I wrote articles that did very well and bought Steem and have periodically bought more Steem. At least half my Steem was effectively bought, maybe more.
I delegate to the Minnowbooster project because several people I follow (like @lukestokes) mentioned it and I took a look. Here are the details on Minnowbooster.
Nothing fishy here.
Additionally, I make it a point to use my influence to speak Truth to Power. (and a month ago on Tezos)