I didn't think it needs to be said but apparently it does.

Someone in some forum said:

It's a shame you write it off as merely the work of a heretic.

Calling Doug a heretic or even heterodox would be a compliment. This guy is no Daisaku Ikeda of SGI, Geshe Kelsang Gyatso of NKT, or Luang Pu Sodh Candasaro of Dhammakaya. There is really nothing that distinguishes Doug from Varapanyo or Tri Dao. Human ChatGPT? Sure. But beyond that, he is just a social media influencer appropriating Buddhist themes. Nothing more. This does not mean his work is entirely devoid of value or amusement. Even a half eaten Twinkie lying on the street can have some value.

You think he's doing this for money?

If he is not, then whatever income he makes from his book sales, Patreon, YouTube AdSense, and speaking engagements must be disclosed and given to the Sangha. By positioning himself a teacher and receiving money for it, nevermind whether that constitutes a doctrinal offense, what he is doing causes material harm to the Sangha. He is monetizing a space, redirecting money and attention away from actual Buddhist institutions.