One think I wouldn't do is talk bad about this gentleman. We should not judge, we should accept and not think we are the only people that have wholesome lives. We dont know how this guy was raised or what he went through. Keep judging people and god will judge us
@@ross-ij6qn we all realize the connotations of that flag but I can guarantee you that that flag does not mean to him the same as it does to you or the most of the rest of us, although It would have been interesting to hear him be questioned about what it meant to him.
stuntx2xr - I live among these people and I can guarantee you it means exactly what we think it means. Ask this guy his thoughts on race relations and this video would be unpostable.
Alexander Harvey - The way you spelled that attempt at some kind of insult is a thing of beauty. It got me about 500 upvotes on a Reddit page for showcasing morons.
"I never took anything I didnt really need" Such a respectful, humble individual. This world would be a happier place if more people stood by these values
My mom is from the hills and I go up there every chance I get, one time I asked my second cousins if there was anything I could bring them from the city next time I came up and the said "What would that be"?
The little things like the way he says “pardon?” instead of “huh/wut?” and his answer about honesty speak volumes about the way he was brought up and the things he places importance on.
As a proud person from Appalachia this man is down right the definition of the wonderful people here. Sure we might be a little rough around the edges but this is the kinda man that would give anyone the shirt off his back. And we need to appreciate more people like that
That'd be one stinky shirt. I grew up where Trey Parker (south park head writer) grew up. Great place. Some kid's folks were this guy while other were ballers. The was no jocks vs anyone. At driving age when we could all finally hang without parental help everyone got along. We were to spread apart with aggressive wildlife to walk, bike, whatever to other's homes. Esp at night. Our house parties were goths, jocks, hicks, snowboarder/skaters (me), skiers, nerds, drama club, punkers, hip hop heads, burnouts, climbers, wrenching/4 wheelin, rice rocket speedsters, Mormons, Jehovah's witnesses, and the other types of people. The few fights I heard of were a few schoolmates but mostly between other schools. Didn't go to sports stuff so I just heard about them. I was in the drug loop bc I liked cannabis and I didn't know many who fucked around with anything but weed and booze. Tobacco too. Flavored Skoal or Copenhagen chew was a big hit bc our parents were hands on so sticking like cigs was rare. Girls didn't mind tobacco dippers. We also weren't fucking/fingering as much as the kids from the suburbs and cities I met in college. Suburb kids were more degenerate growing up than the people who grew up in downtown parts of cities. Great place to raise a family. Very few had cell phones so we'd be out driving on slick winter roads with no lifeline for help. I heard quite a few stories about people getting stuck late night up a mtn road who had to tough the winter night out until someone drove by. Always keep candies in your car in cold climates for situations like being stuck. They'll warm your vehicle up pretty well. Also God to light a few while vehicle is warming up before hitting the road. Scrape less and warner inside. Get outta US cities folks. I think they'll be getting worse for a long time.
He reminds me a lot of my Dad. My Dad was 49 when I was born. And my mother was only 27. She died two years after I was born and he raised me by himself, never remarried. He made his own moonshine and taught me how to grow a garden, clean a deer, fish, and survive. I feel grateful and blessed to have been raised poor in the mountains of WV.
@@lisamedsker1893 Yeah, except when the world never goes to shit all you are left with is starvation and poverty for no reason. Teaching people skills they don't need for the world they live in is one of the main reason that these counties are in the shitter to begin with. No jobs, no money, insane level of alcoholism and drug addiction, crazy levels of domestic violence, etc.
@@rdizzy1 I'm not sure why my comment upset you. No Alcoholism or drug addiction in my family. Also, we're not poor. We are happy family who values each other over material possession.
@@lisamedsker1893 I'm not talking specifically about you, I'm talking about the general breakdown of these areas in the past few decades. The only way drugs gain a massive foothold in such an area is through extremely poor mental health, poor mental health due to extreme physical situations that humans shouldn't be forced to endure. Also causes shorter lifespans than on average (obviously), or the ones that do live end up disabled from over working their bodies into arthritis and muscle issues. They may have certain "good" traits and have alot of knowledge, but it is not a good trade off to live this life in exchange.
It’s human nature to judge. Judge people, places, different situations you may find yourself in. Everything. The key is to be open minded and know your thoughts and judgment might change quickly so don’t underestimate and don’t disrespect anyone or anything.
Nah, I think he was exaggerating. He had to have a conviction or 2 because he did mention that he has done some time. You may have just missed that because he talks a bit fast and had to go back a couple of times. Ain't no way on Earth he has 97 FELONY charges. Maybe sipping too much of that moonshine. Still got mad respect for him as a person and wouldn't mind having a conversation with him. He's very interesting. I wish him the best.
I have tears in my heart and they’re moving up to my eyes. Honestly, if Mark Laita wasn’t there to ask the questions he asks, these interviews would not be nearly as good as they are. He asks such thoughtful questions of his subjects and seems to do so with such dignity and respect that all human beings long for. Amazing and admirable work.
To the author: the way you maneuver through your subject's lives is simply graceful and respectful. These human beings are just that..Human. Most have/had a less desirable life. You give them the avenue so they can be heard. You sir, are special.
He’s definitely very respectful and allows them to tell their whole story. There’s this channel called Chosen Won and his videos are incredibly exploitive. He asks questions with obvious answers for shock value. This guy though shows a more nuanced and complex view of addiction and pain. Great guy
"I went to school to eat though" Yikes "They are just as evil in church as they are out here." This man is ridiculously in-tuned. Intelligent in his own way. A survivor is an understatement .
When I was a Drill Sergeant I had a kid come through from Appalachia. I couldn't understand hardly anything he said in the beginning. The first time he yelled out his last 4 in the Chow line I thought he was bullshiting me and I made him do push-ups forever. He was a great kid and turned out to be atleast one of the top 3 Soldiers I've trained out of thousands. I hope he's doing good. That was a great kid.
@@JamesDeWeaver did you read my comment. That was a great kid. As for the push ups, there's not a Soldier on the planet that didn't do countless ones in basic training.
@@JamesDeWeaver James. I think you don't understand the concept of boot camp. If that kid caved by doing a few pushups and being yelled at, imagine his response when artillery and bullets are trying to kill him? You need to take that thinly veiled accusation elsewhere...
@@Praetoria113-zm3no No, I do understand the concept of boot camp and basic training. Countless push-ups aren't going to make anyone either mentally tougher or prepare them for what they are going to encounter while "in-country". It's the mindset the soldier has prior to combat which will see them through it or not, and not how many push-ups they are capable of doing on command. My point was just because he "spoke differently" than others being from the Appalachia region which he was, wasn't in my opinion only, a valid reason to warrant countless push-ups by a drill Sergeant who was unfamiliar with these people as they clearly aren't your "average" Americans. Cheers
@@JamesDeWeaver Wrong. Boot camp makes you a collective unit and additional pushups do not make the soldier any worse. If your DI feels you may be a detriment to your unit you will have extra scrutiny and discipline is how that is achieved. And, you're blowing out of proportion those pushups by assuming 'countless'. You kust have a problem with emotion. Emotion gets you killed in combat. The DI has to be confident that their training produces people who fight under great stress and handle that stress efficiently. If a DI even thinks you're fucking with them you are now and until you're done on his radar. The DI also in the short time they have with recruits cannot be fully expected to know of all the cultural idiosyncrasies they may encounter, and, what we call Hillbillies or Rednecks in America are not just from Appalachia.
James. The mindset you have before boot? Please. Boot camp prepares the mindset you'll be expected to use. You can think you're a killer before you go to war and end up a babbling idiot, while a recruit with no prior mindset of violence or ability can turn out to be the best in the unit. That's what the DI told you, but here you want to debate with the guy on a job he had as a career. Are you a DI? Nope. Then you shouldn't be inquiring about training and tactics from a DI then tell him his policy isn't effective.
@Israel RamirezRam Exactly, and they are corrupted for a reason. The same reason why our government becomes more corrupt as more of you become a part of it.
This is one of the best interviews I've seen on SWU. Beaver comes across as a self-reliant, independent man living in a rough place that doesn't cut anyone any slack. He loves her daughter, adored his wife, has a strong sense of family and takes deserved pride in his roots. He seems like a decent person who's seen more than his share of hard times and come through them with some wisdom and hard won self awareness but no bitterness that I can see. I wish him the best and hope he sees his daughter's 18th birthday.
As the father of a 5 year old daughter who’s my whole world, I really felt it when he said he hopes to see his daughter’s 18th birthday. I’m not living nearly as hard as him but these times are crazy and things can change quickly for anyone, city folk or country folk. I very much hope his wish comes true, for him and his daughter. ❤️
gets187, that’s all you have to say for yourself? Do you have any kids that you parent? If you do, I hope you spend more time enjoying them because life goes too fast to waste time screaming “f**k you” to random strangers.
@Tabulae Rasae thank you, appreciate the support and I totally agree we have to protect ourselves and loved ones from demons in this world. For me, when I read @gets187 comment and look at his YT channel, I see someone who doesn't know anything but one way of living and so his comment doesn't bother me at all. He's clearly smart enough to use a computer and the fact that he has an internet connection and enough computer gear to remix music indicates he's not broke, I think he could actually make something of himself if he applied himself and found mentors outside of his current social circle. He's gotta want it though and until he does he's gonna live a pretty unhappy life. "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of happiness..."
I'm very appreciative this interview wasn't degrading to his way of life. So often when outsiders come into our communities to do interviews they will have a demeaning nature to them. Mark, Im very thankful that you are respectful of all people and their ways life. I have lived in WV all my life and have traveled most of the country and I've always been glad to return home. Every Appalachian community has a Beaver to carry on the old ways of life. Thank you for this. 💞
I really like this guy's channel. He does a good job of doing honest interviews. He doesn't talk down on people at all. He's really just out there trying to show people the different ways of life people live.
My mother was born and raised in West Virginia they were very poor she was one of 19 children 15 survived. I keep finding a reoccurring theme in almost every one of these videos it seems almost every single person is somewhere on the Spectrum not that I'm a clinician or anything like that. These people are highly intelligent, but they all seem to have coping stims.. all seem to have a running theme of having horrible abusive home lives as my mother stories were horrifying. My grandfather was 33 years old when he married my 14 year old grandmother.
Ole Beav...yup now I can say Soft White Underbelly has went deep enough into these hills of mine, Beaver Bailey is well known for sure by those that needed The Dew...Thanks for this Repectful interview as all your interviews are....
the main lesson that anyone should know is to never judge a book by it's cover. this dude would stop his day if you were broke down on the road to help you until you were safe and never ask for anything in return. THAT IS A PERSON.
@@wedomusic9451tf he did ! That truck in the video BELONGS TO MY SISTER ! His brother STOLE IT OFF MY NEPHEWS LAND AND MY SISTER FOUND IT A COUPLE WKS AGO ! The cops went and arrested his brother… I’m quite sure he helped him
He said “I came up here so nobody would bother me and I wouldn’t bother them.” I felt that. I really wish he gets to see his daughter turn 18 at the very least. God Bless Beaver the Homie.
Mark, your ability to see the true beauty in people is how you make art out of normal.. If we could all see each other with eyes that capture that art in each other through the moments in our days, the world would be a beautiful place to live in. Beaver Baily is priceless and precious and I am grateful he shared a slice of his life with us. Thank You, Mark for working so hard. *hugs*
@@blazefairchild465 Yesssss!!!!! This is what love is! We want others to accept and love us as is...but we have zero tolerance for other folks "stuff" - the word " love" is the most overused, abused word in the dictionary yet it is the most underrated, ill defined word as well. Your statement is dead on....the Lord is teaching me to TRULY love people...
My father worked for a major feed corn company and did a lot of land surveying in the Midwest and Appalachia . He retired with Ball jars on Ball jars of proper shine given to him by these wonderful people. We always cheers to them when it's brought out. RIP
Im from eastern KY, he didn't say that his dad built tables, he said his dad built coal tipples, its metal structures out side of coal mines so his dad was probably a welder/fabricator because they do travel out of state a lot .
I'm a true country girl & still live in a holler, he's right when he says it's beautiful country, & happiness is really living on the land & the animals. Honesty is the best policy!!
From someone who grew up in the mountains of VA, I love these videos. Y'all really show these people the compassion that they deserve. These people just want to live and let live. There's a lot to learn from these folks. Don't underestimate them. They are very adaptive, creative, and loving.
My boyfriend was raised in the mountains of Virginia too. Most amazing caring and protective man I could’ve ever asked for. I’m sure we will retire there just can’t make money there like we can here in Texas.
This channel needs to be affiliated to the Library of Congress. These people won't be around forever so these videos are living legacy of your country.
When he said he worked in Chicago: "I made big money and spent big money, (but) ain't no place like home" I was pretty blown away. He appears so out of touch from the outside, but actually really knows how to take responsibility of his happiness. Really shows that you can be alive day to day making money, but not be truly living without happiness and connection with yourself.
I clicked because I saw the handsome guy in the picture. Coming from a straight black guy. Very interesting man very likeable personality. Tender hearted and kind. All the best you sir.
I'm always fascinated with the US, it's so diverse. I've been to New York and it's pretty much like London, but I'm planning to do much more travelling around the west coast and other parts too to see the old style America before it changes forever.
@@weeeeoooow Do it as soon as you can it is becoming all the same. I started traveling with my parents as a baby , I had been to every state even Hawaii before I was 14. Continued through out my life time . Back when Mac Donald's, Taco Bell, Kentucky Fried Chicken were only in one State. Now you can drive way out west & see nothing but a few farms for miles on end. When you hit a town, it's all the same the regular 2 gas stations, Dollar store, Walmart, CVS ,Burger King ,Kentucky fried. MacDonald s, Taco Bell, Tractor Store, Bank or 2, that s about it. If you are real lucky there might be a Dr, or dentist.& Sheriff. Every single town has fast food. Lost the old charm of the town's that had mom & pop bakers ,butchers , diners. Every thing is super sized any more. You can barely tell one town from the next same ol strip malls every where. Except for NYC they will put a Mac Donald's or Burger King under ground or stuck in any old building because there is no land empty for a stand alone Golden Arches. Of course our protected land will stay beautiful , but be careful to follow rules , some places you have to be back in your car & out of the parks by dark.
@@blazefairchild465 it's sad that the old style US is changing, but I think its the same everywhere now. The big corporations like McDonalds etc and giant supermarkets have done away with small family businesses that gave heart and soul to a community. Not to mention the quirkiness too!🙂
Awesome interview Mark. I’m from Southern middle Ky We’re good people. People want to slam us as being ignorant or backwards. We just enjoy the slower kind of life with friends we pick not ones we are forced to make. We like to make our own way without help from others. We think it shows weakness to ask for help. It’s called PRIDE. I’m so glad to be a Kentuckian ♥️
It’s says a lot about you that they trust you to tell you these things. Illegal things and such. As a “city dwelling” Appalachian it’s nice to see someone treating these people with respect.
I really believe that Moonshine and people like this man are a part of a lost culture from Americas past. he is a dying breed ,last of his kind. He seems really humble, i feel for this guy .
Crazy thing about owning a still. I bought a 13 gallon copper still on the internet 10 years ago with strict instructions telling me that I can only legally use it to make racing fuel. Man we sure did make a lot of good tasting racing fuel
I would love to do some alcohol for fuel. Been dreamimg of that for a while. Can you really do that without an ATF permit? I figure your comment was just a good joke but maybe not.
one time near the ky, tn, va border there was a guy running a still legally as part of a heritage festival. several full jars around but you could only smell, not drink, he said. smelled so good, more like wine than anything else. should have gotten his number...
I loved this. The people of Appalachia are a unique breed. Sometimes not a lot of book learning but a lot of common sense. Glad to see something besides West Coast inner city.
Best interview so far. This man has had a hard life. His hands and fingers are emblematic of the working class. Thank you for bringing a spotlight to the hard working poor.
If anyone wants to learn more about the people of Appalachia I highly recommend watching the documentary called Mountain Talk. It's on youtube, just search that title and it should show up. It's a brilliant film about the life and language of the people who live in these remote appalachian mountain towns
@chips broke rosary Because this channel is about the struggle of extreme poverty and/or addiction and/or homelessness and/or metal ilness. Who wants to watch and potentially help people when they’re fine?
It’s a completely different way of life, in almost every single aspect, including driving (if you’re in the mountains), if you own a vehicle. Someone from the outside coming in will 100000% experience a culture shock. It’s impossible for most outsiders to be comfortable. That’s why I am very proud of Mark.
I'm going to have to agree with you 100% on that. Each of the jobs this man has had plus all of his "hobbies" could be transformed into a very memorable documentary.
I would enjoy smoking a joint with this guy, sitting back and letting him tell all of his stories! Seems like a very humble person...the world needs more like him!
I appreciate the authenticity and honesty of these interviews. It takes balls to open up your feelings and make your wounds visible to others. Thanks Mr. Hillbilly ❤️
Lynn, I love that style building/barn style in your thumbnail for your channel. What state do you live in? I was first introduced to that style in louisiana where its very popular. But its also in other places so I'm curious what state you are in and the story of the one in the picture.
I noticed a wedding band hung on his necklace and it says a lot to the love he has/had for his wife. Just shows you that no matter the exterior, we all love the same..
Mhmm. And when you live like this, your woman is very important and all you have. With his upbringing, only eating food from the store for his wife instead of living off the land like he wanted, tells you alot about the love he had for her.
I read this man was from Harlan County after the interview and I was reminded of a great documentary film called Harlan County USA about a battle between miners and a company that was exploiting workers here. I can see this man has lived and breathed the history of hardship in Harlan county, a place that has been abused and put to work by brutal exploiters in recent memory. What a beautiful interview, I have so much love and solidarity for the folks of Appalachia. I would love to visit someday.
there's a lot more to harlan than you would gather from hcusa. for example it's had a world-renowned boy's choir for close to a century. many films made in the area fulfilled stereotypes and were exploitative in various ways. hcusa especially doesn't reflect what it's like there today
Man, I'm a lawman, but.......I LIKE THIS DUDE! ...not perfect (as none of us are) but a Geniune Spirit/Human being at his core...a BOSS!...a Rockstar. May he live Long and Prosper. Sho'nuff!
People in Kentucky, West Virginia, etc, "Hillbilly" doesn't mean the same thing to us as it does to others. People call us Hillbillies thinking it's an insult and then look bewildered when we say Thank You.
I was born in Kentucky but raised in Florida I always wanted to go visit I have alot of family ive never met even have a family cemetery wear my dad is buried never seen it but hopefully one day hillbilly just means country folks living the simplest life
@@country6368 You definitely should come back home for a visit when can; life is too short so soak in every minute of your visit. The most humble, down-to-Earth and friendliest folk in the world are WVians, Kentuckians and Tennesseans. We also catch the most stereotypical crap as anyone but that's alright; we're happy in our own skin.
@@eerslink5498 I'm sorry to say that but the most hateful, racist people I've met in my life were Tennesseans. I'm asian and traveled to TN for a summer as an exchange student. I couldn't even peacefully walk beside a road because one of a ten car honked and shouted at me. Everybody were looking down at me. This was in 2016.
@@gundalaibatkhuu855 I am sorry for the way you were treated. I'm a West Virginian and I can assure you, you would not be treated like that here. You should visit The Mountain State. You'll be pleased; we take people just as they are.
My moms side of the family was from hyden in Leslie county. I still have lots of cousins aunts and uncles that live there. Some moved to London and Corbin KY. My family was just there a few weeks ago to bury my grandfather. All great hard working people with hospitality
I'm from Wolfe Co. KY. By God, this is a man that will show up in a flood to help you pull stock out of the mud. Man doesn't have much more than his clothes and wouldn't take anything from anyone he hasn't earned. We have a saying around here. "If you aint mountain, you aint worth a damn"
If you ain't Dutch you ain't much. We Nederlanders have that saying. Probably every nation, province, berg, city, town or state has similar sayings. I've loved in a few countries, vised many more, can't say that people are better or worse from nation to nation. It's always a mix of good, bad and grey areas. ...... This man did admit that he steals sometimes so I would nix that, wouldn't take from anyone he hasn't earned, part.
They have another saying down there too. "If it ain't white, it ain't right". During a flood he'd show up to KILL my family, just like those other racists did during Hurricane Katrina. Ya'll seriously need to get a clue LOL
@@kingcobrabss2240 What truly racist is your stereotyping of us appalachians as "racists" and "ignorant". We are an extremely diverse culture and I'm sure we are much smarter than you'll ever be. There's racist folks everywhere, but you stereotyping appalachians is just plain racist.
I personally am so happy people like him still exist. this is culture, I don't care what you think. people like him lived the hardest lives before the internet and tv made the world so small... in the end of the world people like him will be the ones that survive and prosper.
Understanding these garbled words and responding appropriately must take a lot of focus and genuine love/interest in these people. Kudos Mark! Love this series.
Cool guy. He's a real man having real skills and walking two daughters down the aisles. He's shows a good moral compass at this point in his life. The law is garbage to jail a man like this for using drugs. He was abused as a child by his father and was just medicating the pain. Kind of messed up when those with money can get a prescription for drugs to deal with their anguish but when you're poor and take the drugs available to you they throw you in jail for it. Government is useless and when it falls guys like this will be just fine and dandy.
That is exactly what happened to my brother. He never had a chance with the way we grew up. He self medicated and got in trouble with something so petty but did 4 years. It still burns me up to this day. He''s no longer with us, passed away 3 years ago and I still can't believe he's gone.
To be fair I’m sure he’s even admit a few years for 97 felonies on record let alone the many that went unknown I’m sure he’s say it was fair...even he admitted it caused him to go straight
Yes but Mark is also an incredible interviewer. I've come to realize that his work isn't easy, I mean I'd be scared stiff of going into that part of the country, outsiders are not welcomed so much but they still fascinate me.
Yeah definitely, you definitely wouldn't want to be up there without knowing those people, I'm sure they wouldn't take to kindly to strangers just up there snooping around. Huge mistake.
Love when u interview my people, my grandma was a 70 year old bootlegger. Mamaw Gertie. I remember her when I was 6 and she died in a nursing home. We moved into her house and I can remember pouring boxes of liquor out into the ditch when we cleaned out her house.
I luv him and do not even know him. A strong man trying to make it in life despite all the odds that stand before him. I especially luv that he has no problem speaking his truth, and accepring things for what they r, and his luv for his daughter. Thank u for sharing his story Mark, there is nothing like comfortability in acceptance, thank u. I hope I see another story on him in the future.
I also live in Appalachia and the subtitles aren't matching what he is saying at times. lol He isn't lying about the drug problem here. It is so bad. My grandfather and my dad made moonshine my whole life. We always gardened and grew our own food. I still take a lot of pride in knowing I can catch, hunt, and grow my own food when I need to.
I RESPECT BEAVER BAILEY SO MUCH. HE SEEMS TO BE DOWN TO EARTH,HUMBLE,MODEST AND GENUINE. HE'S TRULY HAPPY AND NOT JUST CONTENT WITH LIFE. I RESPECT AND ADMIRE HIM.
This dude seems like a good soul. People may think he's dumb, but I think he's experienced a lot and I would love to hear his insights and experiences and sit with him.
Kym Franklin your implication being that the government starts the fires to get people out of the hills and out of the wilderness? Maybe, I don’t know. But, it’s a misconception that wild fires just obliterate all structures in its path. Say you have a shack or a house in the woods and a fire rolls through. If that structure isn’t right next to the trees or it’s a decent distance away from any combustible material, dried grass, twigs, etc, like even 25 ft - 50 ft away, that house ain’t gonna catch fire unless the wind happens to blows a piece directly onto the structure, and even then it’s not that likely that it will catch the house on fire. Structures do catch fire for sure, but it’s harder than most think to actually burn a structure down.
B T yeah I have done the research. Yeah the government can control the relative humidity and precipitation of the country. Sure. Fires have increased as the population increased in those areas over the decades. Fires have increased along with reckless behavior and to some extent, from increasing temperatures. But the biggest factor in my opinion, is increased population and increase in stupidity.
I feel so bad for this man. Listening to his story he's had a tough life but he still finds joy with his dog. He's very humble and realizes his wrongs. I'm glad he is still makin' it in spite of all odds. Good for him! He's definitely a family man but unfortunately things didn't work out for him.
I'm from a large family. I have a variety of chronic, progressive diseases. Major surgery saved my life 25 yrs ago(but left my body permanently damaged). I returned to work 4 months later and carried on until 2007. I became addicted to prescription pain medication and alcohol. This destroyed me and ruined my loving relationships. I'm very different from Beaver but I feel like I know him also...being honest,vulnerable and isolated/alone requires true courage. Thanks to both Mark and Beaver...
This series of Soft White Underbelly interviews is very compelling. Free of judgement and very respectful. Makes me thinks differently about a whole region and people that most of us know nothing about.
Man we need more people like the guy who interviewed him and makes this channel. Just good things to come. Respect to you for knowing boundaries and trying to teach us something at the same time, which each guests.
I live in North Texas where there are many rural residents here that remind me of this man. I work as a rural educator in the communities and people like this man are one of the reasons I love my job. He is interesting, a survivalist. I love that you are bringing light to communities such as this.
Some people may make fun of this guy, but he probably has more practical skills than 90% of the country.
Thats a really good question...
And more heart. ❤️
Amen.
One think I wouldn't do is talk bad about this gentleman. We should not judge, we should accept and not think we are the only people that have wholesome lives. We dont know how this guy was raised or what he went through. Keep judging people and god will judge us
Fr!
I got something to eat and my dogs aint hungry. What a man live long brother
hes got a confederate flag behind him the whole time, did you miss that? are you praising him?
@@ross-ij6qn u sir is the definition of a idiot
@@ross-ij6qn we all realize the connotations of that flag but I can guarantee you that that flag does not mean to him the same as it does to you or the most of the rest of us, although It would have been interesting to hear him be questioned about what it meant to him.
stuntx2xr - I live among these people and I can guarantee you it means exactly what we think it means. Ask this guy his thoughts on race relations and this video would be unpostable.
Alexander Harvey - The way you spelled that attempt at some kind of insult is a thing of beauty. It got me about 500 upvotes on a Reddit page for showcasing morons.
"I never took anything I didnt really need"
Such a respectful, humble individual. This world would be a happier place if more people stood by these values
My mom is from the hills and I go up there every chance I get, one time I asked my second cousins if there was anything I could bring them from the city next time I came up and the said "What would that be"?
the mountains different when I lived in Vermont and Connecticut I saw the difference
The little things like the way he says “pardon?” instead of “huh/wut?” and his answer about honesty speak volumes about the way he was brought up and the things he places importance on.
As a proud person from Appalachia this man is down right the definition of the wonderful people here. Sure we might be a little rough around the edges but this is the kinda man that would give anyone the shirt off his back. And we need to appreciate more people like that
I like him. :) He seems kind.
I would love to take a walk around his family property with him there'd be thousands of stories and I could listen to every one of them
looks like he already gave away his shirt. :) No meanness intended. Just good natured kidding.
That'd be one stinky shirt.
I grew up where Trey Parker (south park head writer) grew up. Great place. Some kid's folks were this guy while other were ballers. The was no jocks vs anyone. At driving age when we could all finally hang without parental help everyone got along. We were to spread apart with aggressive wildlife to walk, bike, whatever to other's homes. Esp at night. Our house parties were goths, jocks, hicks, snowboarder/skaters (me), skiers, nerds, drama club, punkers, hip hop heads, burnouts, climbers, wrenching/4 wheelin, rice rocket speedsters, Mormons, Jehovah's witnesses, and the other types of people. The few fights I heard of were a few schoolmates but mostly between other schools. Didn't go to sports stuff so I just heard about them. I was in the drug loop bc I liked cannabis and I didn't know many who fucked around with anything but weed and booze. Tobacco too. Flavored Skoal or Copenhagen chew was a big hit bc our parents were hands on so sticking like cigs was rare. Girls didn't mind tobacco dippers. We also weren't fucking/fingering as much as the kids from the suburbs and cities I met in college. Suburb kids were more degenerate growing up than the people who grew up in downtown parts of cities. Great place to raise a family. Very few had cell phones so we'd be out driving on slick winter roads with no lifeline for help. I heard quite a few stories about people getting stuck late night up a mtn road who had to tough the winter night out until someone drove by. Always keep candies in your car in cold climates for situations like being stuck. They'll warm your vehicle up pretty well. Also God to light a few while vehicle is warming up before hitting the road. Scrape less and warner inside. Get outta US cities folks. I think they'll be getting worse for a long time.
I'll take rough around the edges, but genuine always have your back people like Beaver any day.
He reminds me a lot of my Dad. My Dad was 49 when I was born. And my mother was only 27. She died two years after I was born and he raised me by himself, never remarried. He made his own moonshine and taught me how to grow a garden, clean a deer, fish, and survive. I feel grateful and blessed to have been raised poor in the mountains of WV.
We were raised by real men. My dad always says when this world goes all the way to Sh*t, he won't starve. It will be the poor who survive.
@@lisamedsker1893 Yeah, except when the world never goes to shit all you are left with is starvation and poverty for no reason. Teaching people skills they don't need for the world they live in is one of the main reason that these counties are in the shitter to begin with. No jobs, no money, insane level of alcoholism and drug addiction, crazy levels of domestic violence, etc.
@@rdizzy1 I'm not sure why my comment upset you. No Alcoholism or drug addiction in my family. Also, we're not poor. We are happy family who values each other over material possession.
@@lisamedsker1893 I'm not talking specifically about you, I'm talking about the general breakdown of these areas in the past few decades. The only way drugs gain a massive foothold in such an area is through extremely poor mental health, poor mental health due to extreme physical situations that humans shouldn't be forced to endure. Also causes shorter lifespans than on average (obviously), or the ones that do live end up disabled from over working their bodies into arthritis and muscle issues. They may have certain "good" traits and have alot of knowledge, but it is not a good trade off to live this life in exchange.
@@rdizzy1 I understand what you're saying now. I can agree with that.
This dudes channel... has taught me not to judge and love everybody
Naaaaah you definitely still judge people.
It’s human nature to judge. Judge people, places, different situations you may find yourself in. Everything. The key is to be open minded and know your thoughts and judgment might change quickly so don’t underestimate and don’t disrespect anyone or anything.
Glad to hear it's turned you into a delusional hippy.
Dude's.
Mans got a confederate flag in the background
This is my favorite Soft White Underbelly interview ever. You really showed the beauty of this human being.
Hes my uncle
Is he Alive? Since there s comment now removed stated that he died months ago
Much respect for this man. He lives his life, owns his mistakes and survives daily with the barest of necessities.
Extremely rare in a materialistic society!
...and a country boy can survive (HankWilliams Jr)
He collects a disability check from the government. Let's not romanticize his life. Anybody can be poor.
I'm not at all religious, but bless this man...
@Mike you have your opinion, I have mine. It's not romanticing anything. I've been that poor and know how hard day to day life is when you are.
“The richest man is not the one who has the most but the one who needs the least”
U said it my friend.
Please do not romanticize the down trodden..
@@5dkauhanespiritualarts775 Theres no romanticizing going on here. Im pretty sure this man is happier that 9/10 ppl alive today.
I'm happy to see the rise of homesteading, vanlife, tiny houses etc.
Facts
97 felony charges and no convictions!? I must meet your lawyer
Nah, I think he was exaggerating. He had to have a conviction or 2 because he did mention that he has done some time. You may have just missed that because he talks a bit fast and had to go back a couple of times. Ain't no way on Earth he has 97 FELONY charges. Maybe sipping too much of that moonshine. Still got mad respect for him as a person and wouldn't mind having a conversation with him. He's very interesting. I wish him the best.
@@ms.sanchez3924 he probably meant charged w/ 97 felonies(probably all same counts),but got plead down to misdemeanors......they always overcharge
If he was growing fields of marijuana, depending on how they count them, he can absolutely have 97 felony charges and no convictions
And you can do time while awaiting trial and still have no convictions
When the judge buys your moonshine every week.....
I have tears in my heart and they’re moving up to my eyes. Honestly, if Mark Laita wasn’t there to ask the questions he asks, these interviews would not be nearly as good as they are. He asks such thoughtful questions of his subjects and seems to do so with such dignity and respect that all human beings long for. Amazing and admirable work.
“If I can’t get it on my own I’ll do without” he’s solid ‼️
Except for his SSI
Except for being on SSI (welfare)
@@FloydofOz Well that kinda comes with being disabled and becoming old.
@@dakotarhodes2902 yes in this case but not if you saved your money that you “got on your own.”
hell yeah girl
“When your down and out, that’s when you know who your friends are”
wise man
"Or in jail" you forgot - Ha!
To the author: the way you maneuver through your subject's lives is simply graceful and respectful. These human beings are just that..Human. Most have/had a less desirable life. You give them the avenue so they can be heard. You sir, are special.
Chris Yarborough I totally agree with you!
He really is an angel
Respect and they will share
As someone who has interviewed people before, his manner is outstanding.
He’s definitely very respectful and allows them to tell their whole story. There’s this channel called Chosen Won and his videos are incredibly exploitive. He asks questions with obvious answers for shock value. This guy though shows a more nuanced and complex view of addiction and pain. Great guy
"I went to school to eat though"
Yikes
"They are just as evil in church as they are out here."
This man is ridiculously in-tuned. Intelligent in his own way. A survivor is an understatement .
plenty more like him out there. They just aren't all over the internet.
just like the kids of today, and who do we thank?
...And kids in many cities throughout our country only get decent meals at school. I want to cry.😢
Can't wait to go to school that's my meal for the week stomach all balled up I can't get no sleep
Living life on his own terms...Gotta admire him!
When I was a Drill Sergeant I had a kid come through from Appalachia. I couldn't understand hardly anything he said in the beginning. The first time he yelled out his last 4 in the Chow line I thought he was bullshiting me and I made him do push-ups forever. He was a great kid and turned out to be atleast one of the top 3 Soldiers I've trained out of thousands. I hope he's doing good. That was a great kid.
@@JamesDeWeaver did you read my comment. That was a great kid. As for the push ups, there's not a Soldier on the planet that didn't do countless ones in basic training.
@@JamesDeWeaver James. I think you don't understand the concept of boot camp. If that kid caved by doing a few pushups and being yelled at, imagine his response when artillery and bullets are trying to kill him? You need to take that thinly veiled accusation elsewhere...
@@Praetoria113-zm3no No, I do understand the concept of boot camp and basic training. Countless push-ups aren't going to make anyone either mentally tougher or prepare them for what they are going to encounter while "in-country".
It's the mindset the soldier has prior to combat which will see them through it or not, and not how many push-ups they are capable of doing on command.
My point was just because he "spoke differently" than others being from the Appalachia region which he was, wasn't in my opinion only, a valid reason to warrant countless push-ups by a drill Sergeant who was unfamiliar with these people as they clearly aren't your "average" Americans.
Cheers
@@JamesDeWeaver Wrong. Boot camp makes you a collective unit and additional pushups do not make the soldier any worse. If your DI feels you may be a detriment to your unit you will have extra scrutiny and discipline is how that is achieved. And, you're blowing out of proportion those pushups by assuming 'countless'. You kust have a problem with emotion. Emotion gets you killed in combat. The DI has to be confident that their training produces people who fight under great stress and handle that stress efficiently. If a DI even thinks you're fucking with them you are now and until you're done on his radar. The DI also in the short time they have with recruits cannot be fully expected to know of all the cultural idiosyncrasies they may encounter, and, what we call Hillbillies or Rednecks in America are not just from Appalachia.
James. The mindset you have before boot? Please. Boot camp prepares the mindset you'll be expected to use. You can think you're a killer before you go to war and end up a babbling idiot, while a recruit with no prior mindset of violence or ability can turn out to be the best in the unit. That's what the DI told you, but here you want to debate with the guy on a job he had as a career. Are you a DI? Nope. Then you shouldn't be inquiring about training and tactics from a DI then tell him his policy isn't effective.
The pain of his wife's death was obvious, each time he spoke about her.
@1814 Mekroimena like 5 minutes in or so. He talks about how his wife died in 2011 from cancer
Sounds like he lost the love of his life.💔
@@marylougeorge9890 really? that was his wife wtf do you mean "it sounds like" YOU KNOW HE LOST HIS WIFE LOVE OF LVIE DFWKJGNKRGWSNSGWE
@@andrestherooster4354 Whoa...
It's the same in East Tennessee and Western North Carolina. Being a Hillbilly is a source of pride for those of us who are natives to the soil.
He loves his Mama and his little girl...
Life would be so boring if we were all the same..
What an interesting guy.
true
So true Lena!
@Israel RamirezRam We don't want America turning into the countries they came from. There is a reason why they are the way they are.
@Israel RamirezRam Exactly, and they are corrupted for a reason. The same reason why our government becomes more corrupt as more of you become a part of it.
@Israel RamirezRam Running the show after you have manged to turn it into a cesspool like the place you came from.
This is one of the best interviews I've seen on SWU. Beaver comes across as a self-reliant, independent man living in a rough place that doesn't cut anyone any slack. He loves her daughter, adored his wife, has a strong sense of family and takes deserved pride in his roots. He seems like a decent person who's seen more than his share of hard times and come through them with some wisdom and hard won self awareness but no bitterness that I can see. I wish him the best and hope he sees his daughter's 18th birthday.
I know is his daughter and he is a good dad his daughter is my cousin
As the father of a 5 year old daughter who’s my whole world, I really felt it when he said he hopes to see his daughter’s 18th birthday. I’m not living nearly as hard as him but these times are crazy and things can change quickly for anyone, city folk or country folk. I very much hope his wish comes true, for him and his daughter. ❤️
@@gets187 sorry your hurting
gets187, that’s all you have to say for yourself? Do you have any kids that you parent? If you do, I hope you spend more time enjoying them because life goes too fast to waste time screaming “f**k you” to random strangers.
@@gets187 😂😂who hurt you???
@@gets187 Give up on being a producer bro your mixes are fucking TRASH
@Tabulae Rasae thank you, appreciate the support and I totally agree we have to protect ourselves and loved ones from demons in this world. For me, when I read @gets187 comment and look at his YT channel, I see someone who doesn't know anything but one way of living and so his comment doesn't bother me at all. He's clearly smart enough to use a computer and the fact that he has an internet connection and enough computer gear to remix music indicates he's not broke, I think he could actually make something of himself if he applied himself and found mentors outside of his current social circle. He's gotta want it though and until he does he's gonna live a pretty unhappy life. "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of happiness..."
I'm very appreciative this interview wasn't degrading to his way of life. So often when outsiders come into our communities to do interviews they will have a demeaning nature to them. Mark, Im very thankful that you are respectful of all people and their ways life. I have lived in WV all my life and have traveled most of the country and I've always been glad to return home. Every Appalachian community has a Beaver to carry on the old ways of life. Thank you for this. 💞
God Bless the Appalachian People. You people have purer hearts and mind than most of the country.
Is all of West Virginia as poor and desolate as the media portrays?
@@jmahtab depends on your definition of “poor” and it’s definitely not “desolate” it’s one of the most beautiful and scenic places in the country.
I really like this guy's channel. He does a good job of doing honest interviews. He doesn't talk down on people at all. He's really just out there trying to show people the different ways of life people live.
My mother was born and raised in West Virginia they were very poor she was one of 19 children 15 survived. I keep finding a reoccurring theme in almost every one of these videos it seems almost every single person is somewhere on the Spectrum not that I'm a clinician or anything like that. These people are highly intelligent, but they all seem to have coping stims.. all seem to have a running theme of having horrible abusive home lives as my mother stories were horrifying. My grandfather was 33 years old when he married my 14 year old grandmother.
Ole Beav...yup now I can say Soft White Underbelly has went deep enough into these hills of mine, Beaver Bailey is well known for sure by those that needed The Dew...Thanks for this Repectful interview as all your interviews are....
Man never said one bad word in the entire interview . Class act
@@scottallen4223 loved it...
I can tell you’re not from here
This wasn’t his first visit to see ole beave though, perhaps two or more makes it count. *shrug*
Great White hype Twin Sister City. 1 door down and 2 steps away
the main lesson that anyone should know is to never judge a book by it's cover. this dude would stop his day if you were broke down on the road to help you until you were safe and never ask for anything in return. THAT IS A PERSON.
From what he discussed earlier in his life he wouldn’t… looks like he’s learned important lessons with age!
@@wedomusic9451tf he did ! That truck in the video BELONGS TO MY SISTER ! His brother STOLE IT OFF MY NEPHEWS LAND AND MY SISTER FOUND IT A COUPLE WKS AGO ! The cops went and arrested his brother… I’m quite sure he helped him
That's a proud Papa! I love how he speaks of his babygirl. 😍
He said “I came up here so nobody would bother me and I wouldn’t bother them.” I felt that.
I really wish he gets to see his daughter turn 18 at the very least. God Bless Beaver the Homie.
Mark, your ability to see the true beauty in people is how you make art out of normal.. If we could all see each other with eyes that capture that art in each other through the moments in our days, the world would be a beautiful place to live in. Beaver Baily is priceless and precious and I am grateful he shared a slice of his life with us. Thank You, Mark for working so hard. *hugs*
If you look at a person for the one thing that's right , instead of the nine that are wrong your life will be richer.
@@blazefairchild465 Yesssss!!!!! This is what love is! We want others to accept and love us as is...but we have zero tolerance for other folks "stuff" - the word " love" is the most overused, abused word in the dictionary yet it is the most underrated, ill defined word as well. Your statement is dead on....the Lord is teaching me to TRULY love people...
Your comment is truth
@@blazefairchild465 Beautifully said!!!💖💖💖
My father worked for a major feed corn company and did a lot of land surveying in the Midwest and Appalachia . He retired with Ball jars on Ball jars of proper shine given to him by these wonderful people. We always cheers to them when it's brought out. RIP
Im from eastern KY, he didn't say that his dad built tables, he said his dad built coal tipples, its metal structures out side of coal mines so his dad was probably a welder/fabricator because they do travel out of state a lot .
I caught that too. Coal tipples not coal tables!
@Patrick McKenna That's what I heard too
Maybe you are right, but before he said what his dad made, when asked what kind of work his father did? He said "carpentry work! He built ......"
100% coal tipples
@@gutz323 Look up an older coal tipple, they are mostly made out of wood and are actually pretty impressive. =]
I'm a true country girl & still live in a holler, he's right when he says it's beautiful country, & happiness is really living on the land & the animals. Honesty is the best policy!!
You should get together with this dude. yall would make a good couple.
@@joesurfer9754 😶
No listen to these assholes that directed unkind remarks your way. They're not ignorant. They're just stupid and crass.
@ekul Z your just jealouse becouse you couldnt survive like this . why dont you come here and talk your smack you would never make it back out .lol
same here love these mountains i wouldnt change a thing about the hillbilly life
From someone who grew up in the mountains of VA, I love these videos. Y'all really show these people the compassion that they deserve. These people just want to live and let live. There's a lot to learn from these folks. Don't underestimate them. They are very adaptive, creative, and loving.
They are usually portrayed as evil and/or pathetic in most films.
My boyfriend was raised in the mountains of Virginia too. Most amazing caring and protective man I could’ve ever asked for. I’m sure we will retire there just can’t make money there like we can here in Texas.
I love how the interviewer asks for a piece of advice from each person. It seems like their tone changes and they feel appreciated.
This channel needs to be affiliated to the Library of Congress. These people won't be around forever so these videos are living legacy of your country.
When he said he worked in Chicago: "I made big money and spent big money, (but) ain't no place like home" I was pretty blown away. He appears so out of touch from the outside, but actually really knows how to take responsibility of his happiness. Really shows that you can be alive day to day making money, but not be truly living without happiness and connection with yourself.
The world could collapse and that mans life wouldn't change one bit.
I clicked because I saw the handsome guy in the picture. Coming from a straight black guy. Very interesting man very likeable personality. Tender hearted and kind. All the best you sir.
👍🙏😇
I couldn't agree more!
Couldnt had said it better myself he's very respectable and smart. And proud to be a hillbilly he's a honest man i can tell that for sure
Thank you on his behalf!
@@intrepid5566 Your very welcome.
Love this guy. He's very articulate and self aware. He's a mixed bag of chemistry, entrepreneurship, philosophy and grit.
Articulate. Barely understood a word he said😂
@@mariochen2470 He has an accent. That doesn't mean he isn't well spoken.
Hella grit
@@zero-jee c'mon.... there are ppl in Louisiana whose lingo could pass for Mid-Atlantic. It's not the accent, he's poorly spoken.
“There’s evil in church as much as there is out here.” Truer words have never been spoken. Mad respect for this man.
ruclips.net/video/voh-6HoLwF8/видео.html
As a Christian, can confirm.
People that say and believe this, go to the wrong church
@@ryancarver1642 There's evil in everything that man is involved in. Stand watch at the door. No matter where you are.
@@sunwheels ❤💯🙏
I could have listened to another hour of this interview, so fascinating
Stellar content as always Mark! Amazing ethnographic research / study
I'm always fascinated with the US, it's so diverse.
I've been to New York and it's pretty much like London, but I'm planning to do much more travelling around the west coast and other parts too to see the old style America before it changes forever.
Was just thinking the same thing.... could listen to his stories all day. Brilliant.
Very interesting man.
@@weeeeoooow Do it as soon as you can it is becoming all the same. I started traveling with my parents as a baby , I had been to every state even Hawaii before I was 14. Continued through out my life time . Back when Mac Donald's, Taco Bell, Kentucky Fried Chicken were only in one State. Now you can drive way out west & see nothing but a few farms for miles on end. When you hit a town, it's all the same the regular 2 gas stations, Dollar store, Walmart, CVS ,Burger King ,Kentucky fried. MacDonald s, Taco Bell, Tractor Store, Bank or 2, that s about it. If you are real lucky there might be a Dr, or dentist.& Sheriff. Every single town has fast food. Lost the old charm of the town's that had mom & pop bakers ,butchers , diners. Every thing is super sized any more. You can barely tell one town from the next same ol strip malls every where. Except for NYC they will put a Mac Donald's or Burger King under ground or stuck in any old building because there is no land empty for a stand alone Golden Arches. Of course our protected land will stay beautiful , but be careful to follow rules , some places you have to be back in your car & out of the parks by dark.
@@blazefairchild465 it's sad that the old style US is changing, but I think its the same everywhere now.
The big corporations like McDonalds etc and giant supermarkets have done away with small family businesses that gave heart and soul to a community.
Not to mention the quirkiness too!🙂
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned in life?
BE HONEST!! 👍🏾
👌👌👌
100%
Wise
Awesome interview Mark. I’m from Southern middle Ky We’re good people. People want to slam us as being ignorant or backwards. We just enjoy the slower kind of life with friends we pick not ones we are forced to make. We like to make our own way without help from others. We think it shows weakness to ask for help. It’s called PRIDE. I’m so glad to be a Kentuckian ♥️
It’s says a lot about you that they trust you to tell you these things. Illegal things and such. As a “city dwelling” Appalachian it’s nice to see someone treating these people with respect.
I really believe that Moonshine and people like this man are a part of a lost culture from Americas past. he is a dying breed ,last of his kind. He seems really humble, i feel for this guy .
Definitely not a lost culture. Definitely still around
Yes like the greats like popcorn Sutton
Changing weed laws why not make shine oh wait government can't collect taxes
@@Lee-wl1tx Yeah but it's on its death bed.
God bless him
And God Ride With Him.
Crazy thing about owning a still. I bought a 13 gallon copper still on the internet 10 years ago with strict instructions telling me that I can only legally use it to make racing fuel. Man we sure did make a lot of good tasting racing fuel
I would love to do some alcohol for fuel. Been dreamimg of that for a while. Can you really do that without an ATF permit? I figure your comment was just a good joke but maybe not.
That's brilliant lol
Nothing like the smoothness of moonshine.
Lol .. love the comment ..have a great day sir !
@@thornyturtleranch4u I it’s real. Check online and check your states legalities on producing fuel first
This is a breath of fresh air. We needed a lil break from Amanda and the city. -invested fan
Lol yes !! This is definitely refreshing compared to amanda... I like this guy.
@@rae7864 Me too. He's likeable. Look at his hands. Fingers like that are emblematic of the working class.
Have you watched any other videos ?? cause there’s only about 6-7 videos on Amanda & loads of other videos on this channel 🤔
Yes! I love videos about the Appalachian lifestyle!!! Would love to see more of these and would love to meet Beaver!!
Totally agree
Even as a "outlaw" this man has something to teach the world. Loved this story
From one shiner to another, thanks for keeping the heritage alive.
I'll 3rd it.
one time near the ky, tn, va border there was a guy running a still legally as part of a heritage festival. several full jars around but you could only smell, not drink, he said. smelled so good, more like wine than anything else. should have gotten his number...
I loved this. The people of Appalachia are a unique breed. Sometimes not a lot of book learning but a lot of common sense. Glad to see something besides West Coast inner city.
i was thinking the same thing
Crystal Norris Your son is very lucky to have you as a resource of strength and love.
Breed? We aren’t animals.
To be able to hear this man speak and tell his story is amazing...! Thank you Mark for bringing me to parts of the world I would probably never go...
This gentleman is so much more than a moonshiner. He is rare, precious, and salt of the earth.
Best interview so far. This man has had a hard life. His hands and fingers are emblematic of the working class. Thank you for bringing a spotlight to the hard working poor.
If anyone wants to learn more about the people of Appalachia I highly recommend watching the documentary called Mountain Talk. It's on youtube, just search that title and it should show up. It's a brilliant film about the life and language of the people who live in these remote appalachian mountain towns
I have seen that one, there are a few good ones on you tube
Thanks for that . I will check it out
Hey thanks for the recommendation. I’m trying to stay sober and keeping myself occupied is vital. Thanks again!
@chips broke rosary Because this channel is about the struggle of extreme poverty and/or addiction and/or homelessness and/or metal ilness. Who wants to watch and potentially help people when they’re fine?
These are the best interviews you’ve ever done, The Appalachian people are so interesting
It’s a completely different way of life, in almost every single aspect, including driving (if you’re in the mountains), if you own a vehicle. Someone from the outside coming in will 100000% experience a culture shock. It’s impossible for most outsiders to be comfortable. That’s why I am very proud of Mark.
What a gem. This guy has more character and wisdom than most. Thanks for sharing Mark!
This man needs a 90 min whole documentary at the very least!
Exactly luv!
I'm going to have to agree with you 100% on that. Each of the jobs this man has had plus all of his "hobbies" could be transformed into a very memorable documentary.
Agreed. Gardening, survival, mountain cooking 101👍🏿
@Pj Mack yeah!Not to mention the still!
ruclips.net/video/voh-6HoLwF8/видео.html
I would enjoy smoking a joint with this guy, sitting back and letting him tell all of his stories! Seems like a very humble person...the world needs more like him!
@travis aaron are you the D.A.R.E doctrine ? the paraphernalia professor? the moonshine moderator? lmfao
You mean a few? I bet this old timers got stories for a heavy roll up
@@robertpaul5161 A few would be fine too! 😁
lol except that confederate flag in the back their
After a joint you wouldn’t be able to understand a single word he said lol
I appreciate the authenticity and honesty of these interviews. It takes balls to open up your feelings and make your wounds visible to others. Thanks Mr. Hillbilly ❤️
You really kurdish?
This guy puts a huge smile on my face. He seems to really love life. We could learn allot from him. Bless him♡
The meek shall inherit the earth, no truer words spoken.
Beaver Bailey, you are an inspiration to those of us who don't want to live in cities, or have to work to live. God bless you sir.
Proud granddaughter of a true shiner! Love this man and his story.
Too many judgemental people in the world that never had to struggle Sis. I hear you.
Lynn, I love that style building/barn style in your thumbnail for your channel. What state do you live in? I was first introduced to that style in louisiana where its very popular. But its also in other places so I'm curious what state you are in and the story of the one in the picture.
He's a good ole boy!! It's a simple things in life that u need to live!! BUT A COUNTRY BOY CAN SURVIVE!!😎✌🙏🇺🇸🇺🇸
I went to school, studied chemistry, applied chemistry , and end up to one of the best shiners ...illegal in Canada ! but screw the government !
I noticed a wedding band hung on his necklace and it says a lot to the love he has/had for his wife. Just shows you that no matter the exterior, we all love the same..
I didn't notice that until your comment. 💚
The way he talks about his wife, you can tell she was the love of his life and his heart is broken from her death. I feel so sad for him.💔
Mhmm. And when you live like this, your woman is very important and all you have. With his upbringing, only eating food from the store for his wife instead of living off the land like he wanted, tells you alot about the love he had for her.
@@tylerwill5250 Amen.
I read this man was from Harlan County after the interview and I was reminded of a great documentary film called Harlan County USA about a battle between miners and a company that was exploiting workers here. I can see this man has lived and breathed the history of hardship in Harlan county, a place that has been abused and put to work by brutal exploiters in recent memory. What a beautiful interview, I have so much love and solidarity for the folks of Appalachia. I would love to visit someday.
there's a lot more to harlan than you would gather from hcusa. for example it's had a world-renowned boy's choir for close to a century. many films made in the area fulfilled stereotypes and were exploitative in various ways. hcusa especially doesn't reflect what it's like there today
" If I have a Dollar in my Pocket & my dog ain't hungry, I'm Happy " ...WOW!!! Love you, Beaver!!!!!! xoxoxoxoxooo
That's a great name! He teaches me to be grateful for what you got. We don't need stuff. "...as long as my dog ain't hungry." This dude is a sage.
Man, I'm a lawman, but.......I LIKE THIS DUDE! ...not perfect (as none of us are) but a Geniune Spirit/Human being at his core...a BOSS!...a Rockstar. May he live Long and Prosper. Sho'nuff!
This is a good dude. Great mindset and he knows what’s important in life. I’d like to see another interview with this man.
He may be one of my favourites! He's very personable and I agree that honesty is best.
I hope this guy doesn't get into trouble because of this interview. He's a good man.
Underbelly wouldn't bail him out. Just exposing the guy n belly gets paid from RUclips.
I'm a Michigander but I spent 8 months in Ky recently. The people are so kind and helpful.
I'ma Michigander too.
As an African, I appreciate this. Its hard to see people who live off the land be positive even here. God bless this Man.
People in Kentucky, West Virginia, etc, "Hillbilly" doesn't mean the same thing to us as it does to others. People call us Hillbillies thinking it's an insult and then look bewildered when we say Thank You.
I was born in Kentucky but raised in Florida I always wanted to go visit I have alot of family ive never met even have a family cemetery wear my dad is buried never seen it but hopefully one day hillbilly just means country folks living the simplest life
@@country6368 You definitely should come back home for a visit when can; life is too short so soak in every minute of your visit.
The most humble, down-to-Earth and friendliest folk in the world are WVians, Kentuckians and Tennesseans. We also catch the most stereotypical crap as anyone but that's alright; we're happy in our own skin.
@@eerslink5498 I'm sorry to say that but the most hateful, racist people I've met in my life were Tennesseans. I'm asian and traveled to TN for a summer as an exchange student. I couldn't even peacefully walk beside a road because one of a ten car honked and shouted at me. Everybody were looking down at me. This was in 2016.
@@gundalaibatkhuu855 I am sorry for the way you were treated. I'm a West Virginian and I can assure you, you would not be treated like that here. You should visit The Mountain State. You'll be pleased; we take people just as they are.
It's like calling us Rednecks or Crackers in Mississippi. We take what they mean as a cutdown as a compliment.
Caught a wild horse on the mountain in Harlen Kentucky with this dude and 2 cousins....20 years ago....still tell the story alot....
My moms side of the family was from hyden in Leslie county. I still have lots of cousins aunts and uncles that live there. Some moved to London and Corbin KY. My family was just there a few weeks ago to bury my grandfather. All great hard working people with hospitality
Once my daughter finishes school I’m moving back to Appalachia my heart is in that mountain
@@Mstl1099
I love west Virginia, my moms hometown
People from outside will never understand.
Poor horse
Absolutely outstanding interview
Salt of the earth man with a genuine soul. A dying breed for sure. Respect for plugging along no matter what the circumstances.
Not only are these interviews amazing, but the lighting is always absolutely brilliant. It adds to the awesomeness.
I'm from Wolfe Co. KY.
By God, this is a man that will show up in a flood to help you pull stock out of the mud. Man doesn't have much more than his clothes and wouldn't take anything from anyone he hasn't earned.
We have a saying around here. "If you aint mountain, you aint worth a damn"
If you ain't Dutch you ain't much. We Nederlanders have that saying. Probably every nation, province, berg, city, town or state has similar sayings. I've loved in a few countries, vised many more, can't say that people are better or worse from nation to nation. It's always a mix of good, bad and grey areas. ...... This man did admit that he steals sometimes so I would nix that, wouldn't take from anyone he hasn't earned, part.
I have a counter-saying - "Maybe you'd like me if you got to know me." :)
They have another saying down there too. "If it ain't white, it ain't right". During a flood he'd show up to KILL my family, just like those other racists did during Hurricane Katrina. Ya'll seriously need to get a clue LOL
@@kingcobrabss2240 Not everyone who lives south of Pennsylvania murders black people. Just throwin that out there.
@@kingcobrabss2240 What truly racist is your stereotyping of us appalachians as "racists" and "ignorant". We are an extremely diverse culture and I'm sure we are much smarter than you'll ever be. There's racist folks everywhere, but you stereotyping appalachians is just plain racist.
I personally am so happy people like him still exist. this is culture, I don't care what you think. people like him lived the hardest lives before the internet and tv made the world so small... in the end of the world people like him will be the ones that survive and prosper.
Right on
No hes a racist loll
@Dyslexic Lives Mattress u don’t see the confederate flag😹😹😹
@Dyslexic Lives Mattress ur dumb aren’t you
@@edmundroth6337 someone’s a pussy bitch who’s mad 💀
Understanding these garbled words and responding appropriately must take a lot of focus and genuine love/interest in these people. Kudos Mark! Love this series.
Cool guy. He's a real man having real skills and walking two daughters down the aisles. He's shows a good moral compass at this point in his life.
The law is garbage to jail a man like this for using drugs. He was abused as a child by his father and was just medicating the pain. Kind of messed up when those with money can get a prescription for drugs to deal with their anguish but when you're poor and take the drugs available to you they throw you in jail for it. Government is useless and when it falls guys like this will be just fine and dandy.
my body my choice comes to mind except the law only allows that when it comes to abort. our laws need to change!!
That is exactly what happened to my brother. He never had a chance with the way we grew up. He self medicated and got in trouble with something so petty but did 4 years. It still burns me up to this day. He''s no longer with us, passed away 3 years ago and I still can't believe he's gone.
Stop voting for repubs if we want a sensible drug policy.
To be fair I’m sure he’s even admit a few years for 97 felonies on record let alone the many that went unknown I’m sure he’s say it was fair...even he admitted it caused him to go straight
Them 19 minutes flew by way too quickly
I want to see more about him.
this is an incredible interview, Mark
Yes but Mark is also an incredible interviewer. I've come to realize that his work isn't easy, I mean I'd be scared stiff of going into that part of the country, outsiders are not welcomed so much but they still fascinate me.
I agree. Absolutely amazing.
Yeah definitely, you definitely wouldn't want to be up there without knowing those people, I'm sure they wouldn't take to kindly to strangers just up there snooping around. Huge mistake.
Love when u interview my people, my grandma was a 70 year old bootlegger. Mamaw Gertie. I remember her when I was 6 and she died in a nursing home. We moved into her house and I can remember pouring boxes of liquor out into the ditch when we cleaned out her house.
I enjoy it when you connect with the one you're interviewing, and you laugh and I can tell you're having a good time ☺️
I luv him and do not even know him. A strong man trying to make it in life despite all the odds that stand before him. I especially luv that he has no problem speaking his truth, and accepring things for what they r, and his luv for his daughter. Thank u for sharing his story Mark, there is nothing like comfortability in acceptance, thank u. I hope I see another story on him in the future.
I also live in Appalachia and the subtitles aren't matching what he is saying at times. lol He isn't lying about the drug problem here. It is so bad. My grandfather and my dad made moonshine my whole life. We always gardened and grew our own food. I still take a lot of pride in knowing I can catch, hunt, and grow my own food when I need to.
I RESPECT BEAVER BAILEY SO MUCH. HE SEEMS TO BE DOWN TO EARTH,HUMBLE,MODEST AND GENUINE. HE'S TRULY HAPPY AND NOT JUST CONTENT WITH LIFE. I RESPECT AND ADMIRE HIM.
I respect him immensely too. There's nothing fake about him. He must be a very hard worker to survive on the mountain.
This dude seems like a good soul. People may think he's dumb, but I think he's experienced a lot and I would love to hear his insights and experiences and sit with him.
Hillbillies ain’t no dying breed. As long as there are guys living the hills who want to do their own thing, there’ll be hillbillies.
@B T I agree...I believe we will see more "wild" fires in more states for this very reason
yes maam.
Kym Franklin your implication being that the government starts the fires to get people out of the hills and out of the wilderness?
Maybe, I don’t know.
But, it’s a misconception that wild fires just obliterate all structures in its path.
Say you have a shack or a house in the woods and a fire rolls through. If that structure isn’t right next to the trees or it’s a decent distance away from any combustible material, dried grass, twigs, etc, like even 25 ft - 50 ft away, that house ain’t gonna catch fire unless the wind happens to blows a piece directly onto the structure, and even then it’s not that likely that it will catch the house on fire.
Structures do catch fire for sure, but it’s harder than most think to actually burn a structure down.
B T yeah I have done the research.
Yeah the government can control the relative humidity and precipitation of the country. Sure.
Fires have increased as the population increased in those areas over the decades. Fires have increased along with reckless behavior and to some extent, from increasing temperatures. But the biggest factor in my opinion, is increased population and increase in stupidity.
Amen to that 💜
I feel so bad for this man. Listening to his story he's had a tough life but he still finds joy with his dog. He's very humble and realizes his wrongs. I'm glad he is still makin' it in spite of all odds. Good for him! He's definitely a family man but unfortunately things didn't work out for him.
This dude is smarter than probably 85% of people I went to college with.
Intelligent and educated are not even close to the same thing.
Intelligent vs indoctrinated *
@@jesusismyking3434 nailed it
What college did you go to lol?
@@obanjespirit2895 It was a Liberal Arts college.....
Alot of respect to this guy. You can tell he has a good heart, and very honest.
I love this guy. He’s so damn real.
Mee too luv! Very genuine!
People like him is why I love living in this part of the country! #wv
Fayette co
304
I'm from a large family. I have a variety of chronic, progressive diseases. Major surgery saved my life 25 yrs ago(but left my body permanently damaged). I returned to work 4 months later and carried on until 2007. I became addicted to prescription pain medication and alcohol. This destroyed me and ruined my loving relationships.
I'm very different from Beaver but I feel like I know him also...being honest,vulnerable and isolated/alone requires true courage.
Thanks to both Mark and Beaver...
This series of Soft White Underbelly interviews is very compelling. Free of judgement and very respectful. Makes me thinks differently about a whole region and people that most of us know nothing about.
That picture dated 2004? He could've been any rock & roller circa 1970 straight out of Laurel Canyon. Absolutely _fantastic_ picture!
Man we need more people like the guy who interviewed him and makes this channel. Just good things to come. Respect to you for knowing boundaries and trying to teach us something at the same time, which each guests.
I live in North Texas where there are many rural residents here that remind me of this man. I work as a rural educator in the communities and people like this man are one of the reasons I love my job. He is interesting, a survivalist. I love that you are bringing light to communities such as this.
Some of the Greatest People!! Would love to listen to hear more of his history. May GOD keep BLESSING Him!! 💖
This interview is up for an Oscar. IMO
It sure can be.
I don't watch TV. This is worth watching, it's real life.
Great vignettes of America's struggling class. I love how you revisit folks every decade for updates.
This man is humble and kind! the stories he could tell:) what an interesting soul!