Mark Laita from SWU did a lot for the Whittaker family. I hate when people say he exploited them. That's just bs. The Whittaker family are wonderful loving people. So happy with everything that they fixed and bought for the house.
How much money did they collect...I bet they are having people stop by there house all hrs.I mean it went world wide....People always like a freak show....I mean it was done at the county fairs or circus midway....Look at the freak show same thing Don't you think? Mark made more money then.They did.....he should build them a new house.And have hospice come by and check there vitals....Not to ask them questions they don't understand ...He's from the west coast...They talk southern slang...Anyway it's just another freak show...
Odd is a beautiful little place, looks very peaceful. Not going to lie, I enjoyed seeing the Whittaker place, but I also would never stop there and disturb their peace.
Thank you for your respect to the Whittaker family; and - knowing the worry of entering a private drive. I am from Charleston departing for the south age 14 yet you never lose that mountain instinct; now in Florida - so rural can't see my other neighbors - Florida, the same spot for 45 years. And - there are two track lanes within a mile of me and among 100's that I would never dare explore; it's somewhat like West Virginia but flat, I love visiting West Virginia through your lens and daring explorations and descriptions; paramount - your respect for others. It's a fact that those hollers call out to us (my age 71) Peace
This done Odd right. Very classy. I hope this video takes off to counterbalance other videos about Odd and this part of the world. It looks beautiful and VERY rural.
Beautiful country. Let me join all the other folks who have thanked you for the respect you've shown to the Whittakers. Another viewer used the word "class," and that definitely fits. It's amazing that the huge newer home you came upon was relatively close to the Whittaker place, but I think that's one of the things that makes these areas and your videos so remarkable. This is a part of the country that's full of complexity and depth that you need to take time to get familiar with. You both offer the sensitivity and sense of understanding that makes you just right for the job of presenting Real Appalachia to people who love the area. Sorry for going off topic, but I'm so sorry to see the devastation that has hit Kentucky with these floods. It looks like places we're so familiar with, like Breathit and Harlan Counties and others have been hit very hard. I'm hoping that a lot of prayers and material support can be focused on the tremendous needs that people in those areas are trying to cope with now. I have a feeling these are not folks who are going to be asking for a lot of help. Even though they need it. 😞
Thank you so much for the kind words! We tried to do exactly that so we appreciate it! And yes, we are so heartbroken about KY. We have heard of and seen so many pictures of the devastation. We are praying and donating and encourage all who can and will to do the same! - Melody
You turned around in my ex N laws driveway lol ( great people). I lived in Odd for a yr and a half, across from a pony farm. It was a beautiful, peaceful place to live. The Whittakers have had so many people terrorizing them for decades, they are completely harmless people that deserve to have respect for their privacy and I thank you for being respectful!! We've actually had to block the road to keep people from going to throw rocks and eggs at their house. I hope they are doing well and the harassment has stopped.
It is beautiful there! That is absolutely terrible how people treat the Whittakers!! I don’t understand how some people can be so cruel. Thank you for the kind comments! - Melody
Who would terrorize them? Did that happen before they "rose to fame"? I really hope the harassment hasn't gotten worse. I hear the neighbors look out for them-kudos to the neighbor's for looking out for these gentle souls.
@@bluejay9890 my cousin just told me last week that someone was in the local store asking about where the live. I've known them since I was a child and I'm 44 now, and they've always been harassed. They're not famous at all, they're just the same people I've always known and now they're just getting more harassment since the first RUclips video came out yrs ago. The police would go down there drinking with teenage girls and harass them just to show off. It's always been a problem since before I was even born and the only thing that has changed is that more people want to aggravate them.
@@melissacole1821 That's so awful! I'll never understand why anyone would want to harass these folks. All this family wants to do is survive as best they can. I don't understand what makes someone take pleasure in making life even harder for people who already have it so hard. There's a special place in hell for those people who are harassing them.
Enjoyed this ! Very beautiful drive through odd! Raleigh county is very beautiful! The mansion on the hill is beautiful! The road the Whittakers live on is very beautiful! Thanks guys ! Stay safe always and God bless you always....🙏❤
WOW! You probably had an interesting road to reach Odd. I haven't been to Odd, but many, many times to Beckley and surrounding areas. Hope you find some time to visit the Beckley Mine Exhibit. A wonderful video as usual by two sweet, adorable people!!
Thank you, Judy! It was an “Odd Road”, haha, that’s actually what it was called! It was very narrow and curvy but thankfully not too far from the interstate. - Melody
Thank you both for another very enjoyable video. Odd was a bit east of my trip through West Virginia last week If i go again I would like to drive through. I started my drive in Hinkley, and drove north for 6 days, at one point taking the coal mine tour in Beckley as I saw in one of your videos. I had a great time just driving, stopping off and enjoying the beauty of West Virginia, and would like to thank both of you for many inspiring videos.
Thanks for showing this. It is a lovely drive. Two more awesome places are the home of Alfred Beckley and the Whipple Company store. Lots of cool history.
I remember going to a small school about twice the size of that one. Kinda think we Need to get back to Small Schools instead of the huge schools our children go to now. Hat's off to the teachers with what they deal with. Thanks for showing us around Odd.
I went to Odd Elementary. We had to walk up and down that hill. The bus stop was at the main road. 2nd and 3rd grade and 5th and 6th grade were in the same rooms. I acquired the homemade roll recipe from the retired cook several years later after it closed, also the spaghetti recipe. Thats when they actually cooked. Thanks for the video.
More importantly, I hope and pray for all the followers of this channel who are being adversely effected by the flooding as well as all others that they are safe and well.
hello, Real Appalachia. thanks for brining us along. I am from across the world and find your videos very entertaining and enlightening. Also, I agree what you mean about SWU. very exploitative. I hardly ever get out so these drive-alongs are truly fun.
Hey guys love the video I've been going to some of the places you guys have been I've been enjoying myself just wanted to thank you for getting me out of the house my husband passed away 5 years ago and I just retired this year so I thought maybe traveling around and seeing some stuff would get me out of the house and get me a relaxing and it has so thanks a lot y'all have a good time
You for sure are in the boonies in Odd WV, lol. I think I have heard of Odd WV. But I have never been there. What towns are near this place? Cool video thanks for sharing thumbs up. Stay well & safe guys. God bless you.
I don't know why you won't allow comments about the Whittaker family video you did but I wanted to say I thought your comments about the Soft Underbelly videos was off base. I don't see them being exploitive at all as the videos have been extremely respectful of the Whittaker family and I believe everyone who has watched them came away feeling great compassion and heartfelt gratitude that someone is trying to help them. The videos have brought an income to the family and improved their living conditions considerably. I am so thankful someone cares enough to help them and have brought such widespread interest and support to the family. Thank you to Mark Laita and Soft Underbelly series which has highlighted the Whittaker family. It's been a blessing to them.
@@realappalachia I did watch it and that’s not what he said or meant so why are you twisting what he said to justify your own personal views? No need to justify it by twisting what he said about it. Just own it and agree to disagree and move on. He’s done a world of good for these folks which is a good thing. Guess you could say every documentarian or photographer is exploiting people but that’s not what you said in your video. You said his exploitation of them was distasteful. Disagree completely. He could not have been more respectful of them.
Thanks for the video. I had to see more of this place after seeing the soft white underbelly video because you really can't make that up. A very strange family from a place named Odd. Truth really is stranger than fiction.
Every video ya'll do is awesome. Born and raised and West Virginia proud. Graduate of MU in Huntington WVa in 1994 and grew up in the Shenandoah Valley near Martinsburg. If y'all ever get up near Arden WVa. Let me know. Head out to Lewis Brothers Orchard and get ya some fresh peaches. That's my kin folk. Tell em Mark sent ya! God Bless ya both and keep up the good work🙂
I work for a church group driving back from florida to toronto was helping out with the damage from hurricane Ian in fort myers, decided to call the Whittakers and ask if they would like any help with groceries , betty is such a nice lady . My family and i went by today to drop off the grocries they all came outside gave us a hug They truly are wonderful loving kind people ❤
Beautiful country obviously, but the thing thing that stands out is there. Gorgeous place though, and do not let anything else take away from that and it’s good folks.
Lovely video, showed me exactly whati wanted to see. Things that Google cant. Pro tip btw(if you can), make the uturn turning backwards. It let's the owners know you're turning around and not a threat. Also protects you better from bullets lol
It's a great work in progress and many of the people who live here in town went there as a kid. We plan to leave the sign on the school and put up an info flyer box for tourists who come by to see the school. It is one of only two standing wooden schoolhouses in the state. We don't have any personal ties to the school or the town, we just loved the idea of living in a school and renovating it into a home. We will preserve the schoolhouse history for the town.
That is so awesome and such an honorable thing! As you can tell, we’re all about preserving history, so we applaud you and your family!! It looks so great and we’ll be excited to visit in the future and see the progress! - Melody
You need to venture across the Ohio River in southen Ohio. the lower qtr of the state is very similar to Wva, Va, Tn and so on. Wed be glad to give you some direction. Weve got amish country over here too.
I had a white goat called Otis but a lot of friends called him Odie O. (kinda like Odd) He was so well known, some people even declared him the Mayor of Toms Brook! (Va)😊
Hi Melody&Shane, At 10:50 on the right there is the Whitticker home. This is where that sorry "donkey" gained his recognition. Such a pretty area in the county of Raleigh, Im like you all, I want that schoolhouse to live in lol. Very well made video! God Bless you both! (Glen). WV.
And yet they are so kind as to not even mention that. That is what happens when channel actually has some integrity and respect they do not even seek them out as some other clown car that drove that just "happened" to run across them.😀
Beautiful area..thank you guys for the ride along and most certainly for the respect!! If I'm not mistaken that road..or 1 very near it..comes out at the top of Arista mtn on the Wyoming Co. Line from 1 your other videos
Don't know what it's called now. But it was called Ood like old growing up from Hawk's Nest to Clay County West Virginia. My parents both were born in West Virginia and I have been there many times. Oh it has changed! Now I am in North East Tennessee near Bristol. Love the mountains.
Laita did exploit the Whittakers, just because he gave money and did fund raising for them does not take away from the sensationalist reporting and exploitation . He could have reported with still keeping the family’s dignity intact. He did not need to focus on the nature of the disabilities and why they are that way. Laita chose this approach. It was disgusting that he justifies it by saying he wants to show the poor people of the region.
Hey guys what a great video I love the story of finding a name! I worked with a guy from eastern KY his name was Ora his mom and dad said we came name him Mike or’a James or’a Steve hey! The one said to the other let’s name him Ora!!!!! Love the videos
Not exactly sure when this was filmed....any idea if this area was affected by the floods....I worry about all the people who had to weather the storms and flooding. TY
A beautiful area, everything is so green. Where i am its all burnt brown. I have wondered how it got the name. And I am aware of the Whittaker family , it's great that the neighbours watch over them .
I have an odd story about Odd. If you keep driving on that road, you'll come to a railroad crossing. But there haven't been any trains for a very long time-long enough for there to be small trees growing between the rails. Maybe 2 or three inches in diameter. But there is a railroad signal, low to the ground, that still has a red light burning. Trees don't grow that much overnight. Looking at the tracks, it's obvious that there haven't been any trains running on them for a very long time, So why is that light still burning? Who's paying the electric bill, and why?
Hello from Brisbane Australia ~ I love the scenery everything is so pretty. I’ve been following the story of the Whittakers they all seem friendly thank you for your respect towards them
For a married couple you both are very inspirational. Keep up the good work. I also watched the Whitaker documentary. The guy who made the documentary received a lot of negative feed back. Even if the 2 married as a double cousin. That’s not enough DNA passed to cause the disability the Whitaker’s have. I’m not sure what caused it however it wasn’t due to interbreeding. I know a couple who married cousins 2 in fact and they are normal. Keep up the good work. I love the way you two smile.
I know you said driving through the hollers their is eyes on you always is it safe to drive through them? I like exploring county roads and stuff but should I not explore them?
It honestly depends on where you’re at. 9 times out of 10 you’d be fine. The key is how you approach it, if you wave first at people and prove to be open and no threat then you’re usually fine. The deeper in you go, the more dangerous it gets I would say because people are less and less used to seeing strangers
Melody you state that your family is from Grayson county Virginia. My wife who passed a little over three years ago was from Grayson county also. Her family is from the Rugby community. Just wondering what part of the area your family was from. Was hoping you guys would have shown up at heritage day in Rural Retreat yesterday!!
That’s awesome! I love Grayson county and feel such a connection there. My family was from the Troutdale/Razor Ridge area. I believe we missed hearing about that one but I would love to see it so hopefully next year! Thanks! - Melody
@@realappalachia thank you for answering my question bout sweet Grayson county! Heritage day at rural retreat is the last Saturday in July. I will remind you next year lol
Living in NJ I love this area of Virginia and West Virginia. I really enjoy your videos. I always "follow" your trips by going on Google maps and using the street view. It's like riding along with you. Thanks for the trips
Rewatching, I never realized that you can see what looks to be Ray and hear the oldest sibling say something to yall when you drove by. Might have been car noice but sounded like her. Pretty cool
Soft White Underbelly’s exploitation of that family was a disgusting representation of what Appalachia has dealt with since the camera was invented. He took advantage of their issues and disabilities with that video and his subscriber base exploded which created a substantial revenue stream for him to exploit dozens more on his channel. What’s more disheartening is not only does he continue to do this, but there’s unfortunately a huge market and demand for it amongst us. Your video series is highly appreciated by many Appalachians and shows true examples of these communities and the beauty within. So thank you for that.
@@JohnDoe-xl1ig "Actions speak 1,000 times louder than words." I could not agree more. The simple fact of the class of the two running this channel, are in Appalachia vrs a clown from the LA media circuses. Says volumes on the character that they have leaving it to those who are seeking confrontation and hijinks to pop off on somethings they actually are clueless about. So we seen that this video shows exactly the point, you do not just run across or stumble upon the family unless seeking them out. That is a stone cold fact and documented. So the ever so caring soft white underbelly just happened to run across them in travels, lol So this leads anyone with a IQ above their shoe size to surmise that Mr Goodhearted sought them ought for what? Monetary gains, so he could feel sorry for them all while collecting RUclips revenue and donations? Before you respond unless you are willing to out exactly who you are and from where, you have as much knowledge on his income and out go as I do, NONE. I assure you he did not put all that effort into running them down by accident or kindness, he did it for money. Until there is PROOF of any other motive and saying that I would actually believe as he said that he just ran across them on his travels, his whole premise of how and why makes no sense but it sure does bring in the views which equal revenue for him. Again you have no clue how much he spent just what he did for show and tell. "if you have nothing positive or helpful to say about someone's bad situation, then it's best to say nothing at all. Actions speak 1,000 times louder than words." So what you are actually saying is that you have actually NO clue as to what his expenditures actually are, just what makes you feel good to think. It is nothing more than a form of mental weakness. I do not want to hear any subjections or assumptions you show me facts and I will if nothing else respect your words. However until then practice what your hypocritical mind says instead of looking for any way to Ego compensate your twisted thoughts and emotions. So with all said your thoughts are as relevant as the source which, appears there are none but feelings and wasted emotions of your minds choice. Until you have facts and numbers you have nothing more than a case of jack jaw. The area is beautiful and people are real, maybe an extended stay down here could do you some good. Plenty of guys around here to help you just fit right on in. Please stop subjecting others to your SJW ways of half truths and blatant misinformation. It don't sell well down in these parts, you hear me? Now have a better day and if you are not sure seek the truth but never accept empty thoughts and words from someone you hope is correct, just know actual facts and it makes everyone's life much better that way. Not too mention the simple fact of live and let live, somehow today more feel the need to attempt to sway others into what they have been told not what they actually lived. I am sure your well versed in ancient Latin.... Commodo non justo a ligula justo.
@@JohnDoe-xl1ig I can not believe you just tried to justify exploiting a mentally handicapped, incompetent family just because they got money for it!!! Are you kidding me??!!!! Talk about actions speaking louder than words!!! Lol Let's also talk about the fact not once has Mark even provided one single piece of document to prove the exceptionalities stem from being inbred. It's all hearsay, yet you believe it!!! That right there is proof of the typical stereotype rubbish that has been gossiped about, taught and spread for year's about WV. Also, every single one of those family members draw a Social Security Disability check. In fact, if this Mark truly wanted to help this family, then why is he not contacting the appropriate State representatives asking them why this family is not getting the help they are entitled to???!!!! He wouldn't video them for his personal gain, nor would he be taking a chance of them losing what income they have coming in. He plainly stated he gave them money on the video therefore they have to claim it. You're only allowed to draw so much while being on SSD and they count all asset's, including vehicles, 4- wheelers and so on. Does this Mark, yourself and all those viewers not know what APS is? Adult Protective Services, and that's exactly who should be following him into that house not his camera buddy!!! A police officer took him there? He needs fired!!!! Also, a person has to be competent in order to make decisions for themselves. If they are not, they are appointed a representative. Who are the representatives competent enough in this family to manage and meet all the needs of each one? Between them all, there is absolutely no reason they should be living like that so who is keeping the money or not managing it appropriately?? Why is he not asking those questions? Because he is exploiting this family for his personal gain!!! In this case, the State should have already stepped in and placed them in an environment suitable for living, and making sure all their needs are met . They should have workers coming in to clean, do laundry, give them showers, go to the stores for them, meal planning, tending to health issues, and on and on. Manipulation can be easily overlooked when the manipulator is using empathy and compassion as their weapon of gain.
I think the family doesn't like to be bothered. their neighbors protect them from the publicity they got from their videos bc randoms just show up to their house to bother them
I watched another of your video which the comments were turned off regarding the Whittakers. I agree that they are being exploited. Mark Laita credits an off duty deputy with finding them. I doubt seriously the deputy thought he would have exploited them the way he did.
Mark Laita from SWU did a lot for the Whittaker family. I hate when people say he exploited them. That's just bs. The Whittaker family are wonderful loving people. So happy with everything that they fixed and bought for the house.
How much money did they collect...I bet they are having people stop by there house all hrs.I mean it went world wide....People always like a freak show....I mean it was done at the county fairs or circus midway....Look at the freak show same thing Don't you think? Mark made more money then.They did.....he should build them a new house.And have hospice come by and check there vitals....Not to ask them questions they don't understand ...He's from the west coast...They talk southern slang...Anyway it's just another freak show...
Turns out that they exploited him and his audience, at least the family members who are intellectually adults did.
@@unapologeticallyamy9031 thats true i just found that about it the other day, its sad Mark is really the only one who cared
Tks for taking us along to Odd!! More importantly, respect for honoring the privacy of the Whittaker family.
Odd is a beautiful little place, looks very peaceful. Not going to lie, I enjoyed seeing the Whittaker place, but I also would never stop there and disturb their peace.
They have almost 50 million views on RUclips and you have just shown how to get to there home.
@@mixbk-gk1qv most people know that the people of odd protect them I meen the guy that did the doc got a shot Gun pulled on him
@@mixbk-gk1qv very good point...
Thank you for your respect to the Whittaker family; and - knowing the worry of entering a private drive. I am from Charleston departing for the south age 14 yet you never lose that mountain instinct; now in Florida - so rural can't see my other neighbors - Florida, the same spot for 45 years. And - there are two track lanes within a mile of me and among 100's that I would never dare explore; it's somewhat like West Virginia but flat, I love visiting West Virginia through your lens and daring explorations and descriptions; paramount - your respect for others. It's a fact that those hollers call out to us (my age 71) Peace
I love how you hear lorraine chatting away while drive past them the first time ❤️
Aww, haha, I didn't even hear that! I rewound it when I came across your comment and heard her. 😄
They were so sh*tty about Mark expoiting the Whitakers but they use their house as their thumbnail...Hmmmm...well that's interesting.
Much Kudos for treating people with respect. You both give us a lot of valuable information about a truly unique and beautiful part of the world.
Another interesting journey.! Thank you so much for taking us along. You guys are a hoot! Enjoy your weekend!!! 💕
This done Odd right. Very classy. I hope this video takes off to counterbalance other videos about Odd and this part of the world. It looks beautiful and VERY rural.
Thank you!
Love watching You're kind, polite, respectful humble people. I never been to west Virginia. I do like viewing it with y'all
Beautiful country. Let me join all the other folks who have thanked you for the respect you've shown to the Whittakers. Another viewer used the word "class," and that definitely fits. It's amazing that the huge newer home you came upon was relatively close to the Whittaker place, but I think that's one of the things that makes these areas and your videos so remarkable. This is a part of the country that's full of complexity and depth that you need to take time to get familiar with. You both offer the sensitivity and sense of understanding that makes you just right for the job of presenting Real Appalachia to people who love the area.
Sorry for going off topic, but I'm so sorry to see the devastation that has hit Kentucky with these floods. It looks like places we're so familiar with, like Breathit and Harlan Counties and others have been hit very hard. I'm hoping that a lot of prayers and material support can be focused on the tremendous needs that people in those areas are trying to cope with now. I have a feeling these are not folks who are going to be asking for a lot of help. Even though they need it. 😞
Thank you so much for the kind words! We tried to do exactly that so we appreciate it!
And yes, we are so heartbroken about KY. We have heard of and seen so many pictures of the devastation. We are praying and donating and encourage all who can and will to do the same! - Melody
I’m from Besoco, just down the mountain from Odd. It’s a beautiful and quiet area of Raleigh County. Thank you for showing everyone around.
Thank ya'll for treating folks with love, and Mr Shane your partners smile lights up my living room. love ya'll
Thank you!! Sending our love and appreciation!! - Melody
You turned around in my ex N laws driveway lol ( great people). I lived in Odd for a yr and a half, across from a pony farm. It was a beautiful, peaceful place to live. The Whittakers have had so many people terrorizing them for decades, they are completely harmless people that deserve to have respect for their privacy and I thank you for being respectful!! We've actually had to block the road to keep people from going to throw rocks and eggs at their house. I hope they are doing well and the harassment has stopped.
It is beautiful there! That is absolutely terrible how people treat the Whittakers!! I don’t understand how some people can be so cruel. Thank you for the kind comments! - Melody
Who would terrorize them? Did that happen before they "rose to fame"? I really hope the harassment hasn't gotten worse. I hear the neighbors look out for them-kudos to the neighbor's for looking out for these gentle souls.
@@bluejay9890 my cousin just told me last week that someone was in the local store asking about where the live. I've known them since I was a child and I'm 44 now, and they've always been harassed. They're not famous at all, they're just the same people I've always known and now they're just getting more harassment since the first RUclips video came out yrs ago. The police would go down there drinking with teenage girls and harass them just to show off. It's always been a problem since before I was even born and the only thing that has changed is that more people want to aggravate them.
@@melissacole1821 That's so awful! I'll never understand why anyone would want to harass these folks. All this family wants to do is survive as best they can. I don't understand what makes someone take pleasure in making life even harder for people who already have it so hard. There's a special place in hell for those people who are harassing them.
All you need is a little car trouble and all of a sudden you’re in a movie called wrong turn
Thank you for respecting the residents’ privacy and just keep on driving by. Beautiful area.
Enjoyed this ! Very beautiful drive through odd! Raleigh county is very beautiful! The mansion on the hill is beautiful! The road the Whittakers live on is very beautiful! Thanks guys ! Stay safe always and God bless you always....🙏❤
WOW! You probably had an interesting road to reach Odd. I haven't been to Odd, but many, many times to Beckley and surrounding areas. Hope you find some time to visit the Beckley Mine Exhibit. A wonderful video as usual by two sweet, adorable people!!
Thank you, Judy! It was an “Odd Road”, haha, that’s actually what it was called! It was very narrow and curvy but thankfully not too far from the interstate. - Melody
I still hope that you will check out Lewisburg, WV. It is a grand historic place in WV.
Thanks for sharing. I learned something new as I have never heard of Odd WV and have been in and around Beckley several times.
Thank you both for another very enjoyable video. Odd was a bit east of my trip through West Virginia last week If i go again I would like to drive through. I started my drive in Hinkley, and drove north for 6 days, at one point taking the coal mine tour in Beckley as I saw in one of your videos. I had a great time just driving, stopping off and enjoying the beauty of West Virginia, and would like to thank both of you for many inspiring videos.
Thank you!!
Thanks for showing this. It is a lovely drive. Two more awesome places are the home of Alfred Beckley and the Whipple Company store. Lots of cool history.
Thank y'all for this!! I was one of the "wonderers" lol. ~from Charlotte, NC
I remember going to a small school about twice the size of that one. Kinda think we Need to get back to Small Schools instead of the huge schools our children go to now. Hat's off to the teachers with what they deal with. Thanks for showing us around Odd.
I went to Odd Elementary. We had to walk up and down that hill. The bus stop was at the main road. 2nd and 3rd grade and 5th and 6th grade were in the same rooms. I acquired the homemade roll recipe from the retired cook several years later after it closed, also the spaghetti recipe. Thats when they actually cooked. Thanks for the video.
You guys have class, enjoy your videos.
More importantly, I hope and pray for all the followers of this channel who are being adversely effected by the flooding as well as all others that they are safe and well.
Beautiful place thank you Melody and Shane. I respect that you don't invade anyone's privacy.
hello, Real Appalachia. thanks for brining us along. I am from across the world and find your videos very entertaining and enlightening. Also, I agree what you mean about SWU. very exploitative. I hardly ever get out so these drive-alongs are truly fun.
Thanks for riding along with us, that’s great to hear
Hey guys love the video I've been going to some of the places you guys have been I've been enjoying myself just wanted to thank you for getting me out of the house my husband passed away 5 years ago and I just retired this year so I thought maybe traveling around and seeing some stuff would get me out of the house and get me a relaxing and it has so thanks a lot y'all have a good time
You for sure are in the boonies in Odd WV, lol. I think I have heard of Odd WV. But I have never been there. What towns are near this place? Cool video thanks for sharing thumbs up. Stay well & safe guys. God bless you.
Thank you! It was very close to Ghent and Winterplace Ski Resort and about 30 mins I guess from Sophia! God bless you! - Melody
Love you both. You should do one on Holden, WV (near Logan) as I am sure you know...
WV is my former homestate. And there is a tiny community there called BLUE
I don't know why you won't allow comments about the Whittaker family video you did but I wanted to say I thought your comments about the Soft Underbelly videos was off base. I don't see them being exploitive at all as the videos have been extremely respectful of the Whittaker family and I believe everyone who has watched them came away feeling great compassion and heartfelt gratitude that someone is trying to help them. The videos have brought an income to the family and improved their living conditions considerably. I am so thankful someone cares enough to help them and have brought such widespread interest and support to the family. Thank you to Mark Laita and Soft Underbelly series which has highlighted the Whittaker family. It's been a blessing to them.
You obviously haven’t watched Laita’s interview with Joe Rogan where he even admitted there’s an element of exploitation to it himself.
@@realappalachia I did watch it and that’s not what he said or meant so why are you twisting what he said to justify your own personal views? No need to justify it by twisting what he said about it. Just own it and agree to disagree and move on. He’s done a world of good for these folks which is a good thing. Guess you could say every documentarian or photographer is exploiting people but that’s not what you said in your video. You said his exploitation of them was distasteful. Disagree completely. He could not have been more respectful of them.
Sending blessing and love from cumberland yall 🙏❤️ enjoyed the video as always
A beautiful country community only 2hrs 26mins from where I live in parkersburg wv, wooooooooooooo
WOW! Hello Dan! I am from Charleston, but live in Kentucky at the present time.
Blueberry Hill is close to Winterplace. They have the best fresh blueberries.
We saw that! Awesome to know! Thank you!! - Melody
Not this year. For some reason BB hill is shut down in 2023.
Thanks for the video. I had to see more of this place after seeing the soft white underbelly video because you really can't make that up. A very strange family from a place named Odd. Truth really is stranger than fiction.
This is a visit down home for me. I'm sure my cousin is impressed that you referred to his home as a mansion. Odd is flourishing these days.
That is a gorgeous home, would be a dream come true for me
I thoroughly enjoyed this trip to Odd, WV.
There’s always something interesting to see and learn when we view the channel. 💝🙏🏾
Thank you so much! - Melody
was just in thurmond and they hade A tornado that hit near by the town made A path in the woods
Every video ya'll do is awesome. Born and raised and West Virginia proud. Graduate of MU in Huntington WVa in 1994 and grew up in the Shenandoah Valley near Martinsburg. If y'all ever get up near Arden WVa. Let me know. Head out to Lewis Brothers Orchard and get ya some fresh peaches. That's my kin folk. Tell em Mark sent ya! God Bless ya both and keep up the good work🙂
I work for a church group driving back from florida to toronto was helping out with the damage from hurricane Ian in fort myers, decided to call the Whittakers and ask if they would like any help with groceries , betty is such a nice lady . My family and i went by today to drop off the grocries they all came outside gave us a hug
They truly are wonderful loving kind people ❤
Thank you for being respectful to the Whittakers and the other folks of Odd.
Great you two make a good team and it's interesting to ponder how these people live
Driving past The Whittaker house, very cool 😎
Beautiful country obviously, but the thing thing that stands out is there.
Gorgeous place though, and do not let anything else take away from that and it’s good folks.
Lovely video, showed me exactly whati wanted to see. Things that Google cant.
Pro tip btw(if you can), make the uturn turning backwards. It let's the owners know you're turning around and not a threat. Also protects you better from bullets lol
good call lol
@@realappalachia got family in the boondocks in WV and VA so I'm use to a sketchy uturn lol
Thanks for the video. My son just bought land off Odd Rd in Odd. Once we build I'll be living there.
Howdy there! I am the one who lives in this old schoolhouse with my family now! That was my little boy you mentioned seeing in your video. 🥰
Oh how awesome!! We just loved seeing the old schoolhouse and love what you did with it! - Melody
It's a great work in progress and many of the people who live here in town went there as a kid. We plan to leave the sign on the school and put up an info flyer box for tourists who come by to see the school. It is one of only two standing wooden schoolhouses in the state. We don't have any personal ties to the school or the town, we just loved the idea of living in a school and renovating it into a home. We will preserve the schoolhouse history for the town.
That is so awesome and such an honorable thing! As you can tell, we’re all about preserving history, so we applaud you and your family!! It looks so great and we’ll be excited to visit in the future and see the progress! - Melody
You need to venture across the Ohio River in southen Ohio. the lower qtr of the state is very similar to Wva, Va, Tn and so on. Wed be glad to give you some direction. Weve got amish country over here too.
I live in Cincinnati and I can verify this statement. The Amish folks are all over if you drive on 32 and head east.
@@sinceunati @RealAppalachia the further east you come the more Amish youll see.
I had a white goat called Otis but a lot of friends called him Odie O. (kinda like Odd)
He was so well known, some people even declared him the Mayor of Toms Brook! (Va)😊
This was really Odd 🤪🤪🤪🤪🤪thank y’all for sharing another awesome video you guys Rock.
Thanks, Mike!
You found the Whitakers!
Hi Melody&Shane, At 10:50 on the right there is the Whitticker home. This is where that sorry "donkey" gained his recognition. Such a pretty area in the county of Raleigh, Im like you all, I want that schoolhouse to live in lol. Very well made video! God Bless you both! (Glen). WV.
And yet they are so kind as to not even mention that. That is what happens when channel actually has some integrity and respect they do not even seek them out as some other clown car that drove that just "happened" to run across them.😀
It really does look beautiful there and I agree with respecting others.
Beautiful area..thank you guys for the ride along and most certainly for the respect!! If I'm not mistaken that road..or 1 very near it..comes out at the top of Arista mtn on the Wyoming Co. Line from 1 your other videos
I really enjoyed this video. I grew up off #29 in Virginia and the furthest I’ve ever been in WV is Charlestown so this was super fun.
When you gonna do a video on keyser wv we have afew famous people John Kruk an Ed Kelly I'm askin for a friend lol love your videos great job
Don't know what it's called now. But it was called Ood like old growing up from Hawk's Nest to Clay County West Virginia. My parents both were born in West Virginia and I have been there many times. Oh it has changed! Now I am in North East Tennessee near Bristol. Love the mountains.
It seems like this brother and sister duo don't care
Good on y’all. Thanks for the video ☮️
Laita did exploit the Whittakers, just because he gave money and did fund raising for them does not take away from the sensationalist reporting and exploitation . He could have reported with still keeping the family’s dignity intact. He did not need to focus on the nature of the disabilities and why they are that way. Laita chose this approach. It was disgusting that he justifies it by saying he wants to show the poor people of the region.
Totally agree 100% not to mention not editing out parts like the one using the bathroom out in the yard, etc. Exploitation 101
Can anyone direct us to an town called even
Love your video, Thank you
You totally need to visit Bemis WV .
Make sure you stop at Calvin Shipllet's place , you can't miss it .
Well this was odd but I found this very interesting!😁, I respect you both for not invading people's privacy! 👍
Thank you!
@@realappalachia YW!!
Danny (Ray) will usually wave at you if he is outside when you drive by.
I so glad you both aren’t in the floods
How far is the nearest store you could go to get bread or milk if you ran out of it?
About 5 miles away was the interstate and some convenient stores! But it is a rough 5 miles. Maybe not so much for those used to it though! - Melody
Hey guys what a great video I love the story of finding a name! I worked with a guy from eastern KY his name was Ora his mom and dad said we came name him Mike or’a James or’a Steve hey! The one said to the other let’s name him Ora!!!!! Love the videos
Odd is very beautiful.any nice homes and landscaping. One of the nicest small towns you've drove through.
Not exactly sure when this was filmed....any idea if this area was affected by the floods....I worry about all the people who had to weather the storms and flooding. TY
A beautiful area, everything is so green. Where i am its all burnt brown. I have wondered how it got the name. And I am aware of the Whittaker family , it's great that the neighbours watch over them .
I have an odd story about Odd. If you keep driving on that road, you'll come to a railroad crossing. But there haven't been any trains for a very long time-long enough for there to be small trees growing between the rails. Maybe 2 or three inches in diameter.
But there is a railroad signal, low to the ground, that still has a red light burning. Trees don't grow that much overnight. Looking at the tracks, it's obvious that there haven't been any trains running on them for a very long time,
So why is that light still burning? Who's paying the electric bill, and why?
That does sound super strange
I was dying to see the area, thx for saving me a 5 hour and 39 minute drive
Didn't see Ray watering the grass!
I grew up in Pikeville KY. My father bought and remodeled the old school house he went to school in and I grew up in it.
That sounds like a fun home
There is also Surveyor wv
Hello from Brisbane Australia ~ I love the scenery everything is so pretty. I’ve been following the story of the Whittakers they all seem friendly thank you for your respect towards them
Glad you enjoyed the video, Nicole
What a Odd Video, Awesome of Coarse! But alittle Odd! In a Nice way :-)
When will you do another cooking with melody my wife made the cobbler it was very good
That’s great to know! Maybe we can stir something else up soon! - Melody
I think that Odd elementary closed and combined with Ghent elementary.
Damn if it doesn’t look EXACTLY the same, down to the plastic coat hanger on the front porch. Was that Ray walking down the road carrying a cooler?
For a married couple you both are very inspirational. Keep up the good work. I also watched the Whitaker documentary. The guy who made the documentary received a lot of negative feed back. Even if the 2 married as a double cousin. That’s not enough DNA passed to cause the disability the Whitaker’s have. I’m not sure what caused it however it wasn’t due to interbreeding. I know a couple who married cousins 2 in fact and they are normal. Keep up the good work. I love the way you two smile.
I know you said driving through the hollers their is eyes on you always is it safe to drive through them? I like exploring county roads and stuff but should I not explore them?
It honestly depends on where you’re at. 9 times out of 10 you’d be fine. The key is how you approach it, if you wave first at people and prove to be open and no threat then you’re usually fine. The deeper in you go, the more dangerous it gets I would say because people are less and less used to seeing strangers
Hey guys hope you all are doing well
Beautiful country. You are very respectful. Thank you!
Thank you too
Melody you state that your family is from Grayson county Virginia. My wife who passed a little over three years ago was from Grayson county also. Her family is from the Rugby community. Just wondering what part of the area your family was from. Was hoping you guys would have shown up at heritage day in Rural Retreat yesterday!!
That’s awesome! I love Grayson county and feel such a connection there. My family was from the Troutdale/Razor Ridge area. I believe we missed hearing about that one but I would love to see it so hopefully next year! Thanks! - Melody
@@realappalachia thank you for answering my question bout sweet Grayson county! Heritage day at rural retreat is the last Saturday in July. I will remind you next year lol
@@doublerrider9584 please do!
Living in NJ I love this area of Virginia and West Virginia. I really enjoy your videos. I always "follow" your trips by going on Google maps and using the street view. It's like riding along with you. Thanks for the trips
That’s great! Thank you so much for your support! - Melody
Thank you so much for your video. I on the odd post office I live behind it and I love Mr. Gary Barton he’s my pastor
That’s awesome! Thank you for the kind comment! - Melody
I went there 3rd grade liked it very much
that's the house.......anyway love your channel and I live in Asia. I love Apallachia.
Thank you so much
Rewatching, I never realized that you can see what looks to be Ray and hear the oldest sibling say something to yall when you drove by. Might have been car noice but sounded like her. Pretty cool
Yes, they talked a little but we edited it take that part out as much as possible because it didn’t really fit in
@@realappalachia wish it was unedited but I understand the respect aspect
Soft White Underbelly’s exploitation of that family was a disgusting representation of what Appalachia has dealt with since the camera was invented. He took advantage of their issues and disabilities with that video and his subscriber base exploded which created a substantial revenue stream for him to exploit dozens more on his channel.
What’s more disheartening is not only does he continue to do this, but there’s unfortunately a huge market and demand for it amongst us. Your video series is highly appreciated by many Appalachians and shows true examples of these communities and the beauty within. So thank you for that.
Amen!
@@JohnDoe-xl1ig "Actions speak 1,000 times louder than words."
I could not agree more. The simple fact of the class of the two running this channel, are in Appalachia vrs a clown from the LA media circuses. Says volumes on the character that they have leaving it to those who are seeking confrontation and hijinks to pop off on somethings they actually are clueless about.
So we seen that this video shows exactly the point, you do not just run across or stumble upon the family unless seeking them out. That is a stone cold fact and documented. So the ever so caring soft white underbelly just happened to run across them in travels, lol So this leads anyone with a IQ above their shoe size to surmise that Mr Goodhearted sought them ought for what? Monetary gains, so he could feel sorry for them all while collecting RUclips revenue and donations? Before you respond unless you are willing to out exactly who you are and from where, you have as much knowledge on his income and out go as I do, NONE. I assure you he did not put all that effort into running them down by accident or kindness, he did it for money. Until there is PROOF of any other motive and saying that I would actually believe as he said that he just ran across them on his travels, his whole premise of how and why makes no sense but it sure does bring in the views which equal revenue for him. Again you have no clue how much he spent just what he did for show and tell.
"if you have nothing positive or helpful to say about someone's bad situation, then it's best to say nothing at all. Actions speak 1,000 times louder than words."
So what you are actually saying is that you have actually NO clue as to what his expenditures actually are, just what makes you feel good to think. It is nothing more than a form of mental weakness. I do not want to hear any subjections or assumptions you show me facts and I will if nothing else respect your words. However until then practice what your hypocritical mind says instead of looking for any way to Ego compensate your twisted thoughts and emotions.
So with all said your thoughts are as relevant as the source which, appears there are none but feelings and wasted emotions of your minds choice. Until you have facts and numbers you have nothing more than a case of jack jaw. The area is beautiful and people are real, maybe an extended stay down here could do you some good. Plenty of guys around here to help you just fit right on in. Please stop subjecting others to your SJW ways of half truths and blatant misinformation. It don't sell well down in these parts, you hear me?
Now have a better day and if you are not sure seek the truth but never accept empty thoughts and words from someone you hope is correct, just know actual facts and it makes everyone's life much better that way. Not too mention the simple fact of live and let live, somehow today more feel the need to attempt to sway others into what they have been told not what they actually lived. I am sure your well versed in ancient Latin....
Commodo non justo a ligula justo.
@@JohnDoe-xl1ig I can not believe you just tried to justify exploiting a mentally handicapped, incompetent family just because they got money for it!!! Are you kidding me??!!!! Talk about actions speaking louder than words!!! Lol
Let's also talk about the fact not once has Mark even provided one single piece of document to prove the exceptionalities stem from being inbred. It's all hearsay, yet you believe it!!! That right there is proof of the typical stereotype rubbish that has been gossiped about, taught and spread for year's about WV.
Also, every single one of those family members draw a Social Security Disability check. In fact, if this Mark truly wanted to help this family, then why is he not contacting the appropriate State representatives asking them why this family is not getting the help they are entitled to???!!!! He wouldn't video them for his personal gain, nor would he be taking a chance of them losing what income they have coming in. He plainly stated he gave them money on the video therefore they have to claim it. You're only allowed to draw so much while being on SSD and they count all asset's, including vehicles, 4- wheelers and so on.
Does this Mark, yourself and all those viewers not know what APS is? Adult Protective Services, and that's exactly who should be following him into that house not his camera buddy!!! A police officer took him there? He needs fired!!!! Also, a person has to be competent in order to make decisions for themselves. If they are not, they are appointed a representative. Who are the representatives competent enough in this family to manage and meet all the needs of each one? Between them all, there is absolutely no reason they should be living like that so who is keeping the money or not managing it appropriately?? Why is he not asking those questions? Because he is exploiting this family for his personal gain!!! In this case, the State should have already stepped in and placed them in an environment suitable for living, and making sure all their needs are met . They should have workers coming in to clean, do laundry, give them showers, go to the stores for them, meal planning, tending to health issues, and on and on.
Manipulation can be easily overlooked when the manipulator is using empathy and compassion as their weapon of gain.
Thank you for the kind comment and support!! - Melody
I can't believe you didn't stop and say hi to Ray.💗
I think the family doesn't like to be bothered. their neighbors protect them from the publicity they got from their videos bc randoms just show up to their house to bother them
🤣🤣🤣
One of the oddly named towns in West Virginia is War,if they changed it's name to Love,it would make national headlines putting the town on the map!!
That’s a great idea for publicity lol
whats the chances that you tend to visit places which are currenty popular🙄
The whittakers have a peaceful place to live!! Thanks for the video.
I watched another of your video which the comments were turned off regarding the Whittakers. I agree that they are being exploited. Mark Laita credits an off duty deputy with finding them. I doubt seriously the deputy thought he would have exploited them the way he did.
I wonder how much more traffic this road has gotten since marks exposure
great question