I've been here since Nov. 2015, before the partner program existed. Like you I stay for the human connection. Unlike you, if my Medium monthly earnings ever REACHED $50, I would think myself at the pinnacle of Medium success. The recent algorithmic changes are either a benefit or a wash for me, not sure yet. But since I'm in the majority of Medium writers, that is, barely squeaking by $20 each month, and I pay the same as everyone else, maybe I am part of the group Medium is trying to cultivate.
PS thank you for contributing to MuddyUm.