Is this person a scam artist feeding off those that are desperate?
Probably.
I personally believe if hashem gave you a gift, you should share it with klal yisroel, free of charge.
That’s ridiculous. Everything we have is a gift from Hashem; is a person not entitled to make a living? Even if you mean special talent, should MBD not charge for his CDs and concert appearances?
Should an artist give away paintings for free?