My little girls “Papaw Paul”. As soon as we come over he takes her to feed the chickens and see the pigs. He’s such a genuine man and will talk your head off for hours!❤️
Those babies are the luckiest girls! This man has the most beautiful soul. Makes me miss my Daddy something awful but sure makes me so proud to be born and raised in Kentucky.
I loved how he was asked about the most difficult time in his life and he just flipped that right around and talked about the most wonderful times in his life!
I live in Appalachia them ole guys are all around here. The Ohio River valley is full of meth and opiates and poverty. I have a son and I have spent 21years on keeping him educated about and off the meth and pills. Cannabis is good medicine.
This is a good man, who has lived some kind of life. He appears to be kind, hard working, and while I'm sure he isn't perfect he is authentic. We need many more like him.
My family is from Clay county KY. This guy is absolutely right about meth being far worse than weed. They do fly choppers over and over the mountains looking for a little weed patch. Meanwhile, meth, oxy pills is everywhere. I do NOT smoke weed, I do drink a little. Not a fan of weed but I WONDER, since there are no jobs down there if they let them grow and sell some weed if they also grow x amount of corn and shuck beans, tomatoes, organic tobacco. I just WONDER how many of them would get off of meth, get outside, dig, sweat, grow, make a little money. I just wonder. The definition of crazy is doing the same thing over and over and expect a different result. Wake the F up KY you have the perfect climate for farming, plenty of land.
@@chrissparks3254 While the coal company lived high on the hog off their workers $1 an hour pittance. People back then were replaceable cogs, a family had to work twice as hard not to starve.
When Mark asked him “What was the hardest time in your life?” And he said “Well, my life has never really been hard”…That man’s life has been hard AF, he is just tough and content.
Mark, I grew up in those mountains until I was 21 yrs old and now as a 33 yr old man this warms my heart ❤️.. Eastern Kentucky has a charm to it like no other place, but yet with the drugs that came into that area in the late 90s and 2000s it tried to take it all away.. Thank you for finding this amazing man and with it reminding me of the beautiful older generation that I grew up looking up to.. I’ve not been back to my hometown for many years, and I only live just a couple hours away in Lexington KY.. I think subconsciously I can cling on to the special times of my past and not have to face the reality of what has happened in those beautiful mountains by staying away.. I would also like to say thank you Mark for always talking so kind about the people and the communities in the Appalachian Mountains.. I love the channel you have created and I seem to catch myself watching video after video every night! God Bless and keep up the great work! ❤
I’m convinced the gov planted those drugs there because they want that land! They have a history of planting drugs. I’m happy I saw one lady say she was going to the courthouse to keep the land from being sold or mortgaged for 5 generations! Everyone should follow suit!
I am 55 and grew up in the Appalachian mountains of NC…I agree the drug problems are destroying the people, charm and families in our beautiful hills. But my heart and my soul will always belong there! Blessings💖🙏
This man is filled with wisdom. Maybe only a 5th grade education, but a lifetime of simple happy living has done more for him than money ever could. Truly inspiring.
That’s Definitely a WV thing. I’m a grown woman and still cal my mom mommy and she still calls her mom mommy. Idk why we do it but it feels so weird calling my mommy “mom”.
I grew up in a more rural part of Virginia (but nowhere near Appalachia), and we called our parents "mumma and daddy" with daddy being more pronounced like "deady." My 75 year old father would still refer to his 93 year old father as "deady." When I worked in a larger city here, my coworkers would comment on how I said that that way, but to us, it's just normal.
Paul, you've pulled me up hard out of deep depression & bitterness from years of caring for my beloved husband dying a cruel death from Parkinson's, dementia, & bipolar disorder. I get little sleep, his doctors don't seem to care about old people, I change his diapers, feed him, everything. Sometimes he's the sweet man I've loved for almost 60 years, other times he hates me, blames me, accuses me of robbing him, having affairs, even hits me. Our son & his family seldom call but I don't blame them, there's never good news. Worked hard all our lives, tried to be decent, hard to accept the end of life seems so sad & lonely & all our money used up by the cost of medical care. Your life was worlds harder than ours but you said you don't carry hate in your heart, don't worry, just enjoy all the small, good things in life. You are proof that wisdom comes from living & reflecting with an open mind & heart, not just formal education. Your story has been like a fresh breeze that blew the anger right out of me. Our friends are all dead now but I feel I've made a new one in you. Thank you, Paul. 🙋Sending best wishes❤to you from 🇨🇦. And of course, thanks to Mark for this uplifting story.
Bless you. I hope you have peace, soon. I'm taking care of my husband as he is in end stsge if life, too. He is getting great Healthcare, and doesn't hit me, but he has dementia and heart problems.
I love hearing the hens and roosters in the background. I grew up on a farm and the sounds bring me a lot of comfort. My children can't even wrap their head around the idea of growing up with no electricity. Thank you for sharing your life experience with us. Makes me appreciate our luxuries and comfortable life.
@@marylougeorge9890 I'm very blessed,ma'am. And I'm thankful...my life could've went down a different path25 years ago, but thank God I have this wonderful lady in my life, she's everything to me and I owe her so much. Im'a go tell her right now!😄😁
As a born & raised Kentucky girl … this man makes me proud. He’s healthy & happy. Loves life. Smokes a little pot. Worries about nothing. I need this in my life. Please do a interview w his nephew! Blessings.
I can say that it is refreshing seeing true, honest, open, and real life stories. The struggles are real and everyone goes through them. The one thing that these videos have taught me is, it is not how you go into the problem, struggle, or situation it is about the person that comes out the other end. Keep up the great work I know this takes time, money, and energy... side note the Whitaker family is awesome and a national treasure...
My grandpa was also a coal miner, in Nicholas County, WV. He lived to 100, even with a case of black lung. He stayed mentally sharp until the last day. I love hearing these Appalachian interviews because the accents sound just like my grandparents.
It’s an area of our bea country that I’m definitely gonna visit before I go. I hope I meet someone to tell me a story. I love stories about real people spoken by real people.
Mark!! Nice! Bet noone threw an "Apple-at-cha!" Thank you for the respect you show for our people and our mountains! I know we are a strange people to some, but we are good, and kind, and honest even though some don't have as much "book-learning" as people in other parts of the country. Thank you for highlighting this guy! He is a true Appalachian!
I've always admired and had a special place in my heart for southerners because of your down to earth values. Much love from this half Japanese Michigander❤️👏👏👏
My Dad was born in 1930. He was raised on his father’s chicken farm. They were extremely poor. My Dad only had an 8th grade education but he was the smartest man I’ve known. I love people like Paul he reminds me of my Dad.
@@marylougeorge9890 I disagree. Raising children has taught me that we are not born with intelligence. I think It's a willingness or drive to learn that determines how intelligent someone can be, which is both nature and nurture. There are plenty of people that graduated highschool and beyond that never learn anything besides stuff pertaining to their job, and end up being dumber than their middle school aged children. If you never stop learning you will be smarter than the average person, eventually.
Paul you define the definition of hard work. My grandfather was a coal miner, I know how hard he worked to provide for his family. Thank you for sharing your story. Best wishes.
@@AdamMWise me and my come to Bryson City, NC for at least a week every year this time of year. Its like stepping into a time warp into a much more relaxed and inviting place that doesn't exist outside of Appalachia. We will relocate here permanently one day. We are country folk from the coast, so we fit right in around here.
Great interview! I admire this gentleman's attitude, hard working. He might not be as educated as myself, or many other's, but he's wise. He's extremely fortunate to be healthy, keeps moving, many working coal miners aren't as fortunate. Thank you very much for recording this gentleman's life lessons!
Man I'm in tears I could close my eyes and listen to this interview over n over .Reminds me of my grandpa he was a miner in Kentucky then left Kentucky to work for auto industry in Dayton Ohio and started his own church The Rev Jack Carroll...he even looks like Paul. I live in Washington state a military brat California is my home but hearing that Kentucky drawl put me in my grandpa lap today. Thank you
This beautiful soul reminds me of my beautiful Daddy...honest, loving, kind, and the most hard working man ....and by the way..he had a 4th grade education...he was the smartest man I ever knew !!!!💕
My dad only had a 5th grade education. He's 73, retired from a good job and still constantly on the move doing something. He's built additions on his house, does plumbing/electrical work and does practically all mechanical work himself. Education makes you book smart, not useful.
My Dad was exactly like your Dad. My Dad went to 3rd grade. He was brilliant. I miss him so much. He taught me how to survive off the land. "Never rely on anyone, you are way smarter than any man." I am honored to be my father's daughter.
Back in my 20's in NC I went on so many electrical and HVAC service calls to houses owned by older people like this, they were a joy. Some of the best were older black folks, they were the nicest people to be around, it was very common for me to be working on their house and they are insisting I sit down and have lunch with them.
I live in the country in nc and there is truly alot of wonderful people. Doesnt what color they are. Always a blessing to hear other people comment on this. Makes me feel good about where i live
Men like this are the people I know from Appalachia!! Love this interview and it makes me want to travel back there and see my friends. The most amazing and beautiful people and country. Thank you Sir.
My dad grew up in North Loup Nebraska on a farm. He didnt have running water till 5 th grade, no electricity till high school. Went to a 1 room school house till high school. He hated farming so much, he somehow went to Doane college and became an astrophysicist. He just died a year ago at 84.
He is so well spoken, insightful, and thoughtful. Very intelligent. I could listen to his stories all day. I hope he is reading the comments ❤️ from California
His cadence is exactly like my Pawpaw’s who recently passed after a long battle with dementia. Us from Appalachia must hold these folks to our hearts and never forget them. We’re behind the curb in regards to the rest of the country, but we know a simple truth that they have all long forgotten. Thank you for highlighting, and humanizing us like this. Hearing him speak is bringing tears.
Hearing this gentleman speak did my soul some good! I could listen to him to talk all day! So much knowledge about so many different topics. What a sweet and beautiful soul! God Bless this man!
The way this man holds himself,his speech, even his facial expressions, remind me so much of my late uncle. I didn’t know I needed this today. Thank you
Compared to a lot of videos I’ve seen on this channel lately this one was truly a breath of fresh air! He seems like such a kind soul and someone you would enjoy conversations with. Stress free, worry free, regrets nothing and has an abundance of friends. We all can definitely take some knowledge from this guy! Also, love his accent.
As economically disadvantaged as some of these Appalachian folks were, growing up, they have good memories of hard working families and being happy with very little. It sure seems healthier than the urban, drug addicted cosmopolitan contrast. Have you ever considered going north and interviewing people? There are a LOT of older folks with stories to tell, up here in Maine. Loggers, lobster fishermen, old farmers, veterans. Lots of second-generation Maine Amish too, which surprises many. Maine's the only New England state with an Amish population.
@Mystic Being Keep us New Yorkers out of the whole New England thing. We want no part of it. Go Yankees! Go Giants! But I must admit I am a Celtics fan. I get a lot flack for it here in NYC, but it’s the stubborn Irish in me ☘️
These are the interviews I love!!! Paul reminds me of so many great folks I've had in my life. Im born and raised in KY too. Thank you Mark for putting a smile on my face today 😊
Awesome..! This was my favorite in a long time. Paul has a 5th grade education, but man is he brilliant…! He has the important things figured out…I will strive to be a little more like Paul….❤️
God bless this man and his family I been right in their house, I’m even kin to them on my moms side, you can walk in that house and they ain’t a time a day that a hot meal ain’t setting on the stove, you couldn’t hand pick a better bunch of people, we’ve laughed and cut up and everytime you see the man he’s got a smile on his face, truly inspiring and a honor to be in the community and family
I absolute loved this interview. WV has a such a negative connotation. Hearing him say there’s no other place he’d rather be was beautiful to hear. Heartwarming interview to say the least.
This is by far my favorite interview. I love Paul. I learned a lot listening to him and I admire his way of life and his outlook on everything. He's a kind and intelligent man. He is spot on regarding the drug issues that are in that area. So much effort is made to crack down on marijuana crops it no doubt led directly to the problems with crystal meth. That is the first time I've heard someone say that and it makes perfect sense. I don't know Paul's age but he's smart, thoughtful and hard working and I can honestly see him living to be 100. His happiness is contagious and I'll be thinking about his words for a while. I would love to be friends.
I loved this interview! Mark i so wish you would do many more interviews with the older folks. So much of americas history is being destroyed and pushed aside. Some day this kind of interview will be all that is left. Thank you and lets see more of these!!
Paul is definitely one of my new faves. I love listening to him. It’s like listening to a family member. Captivating, friendly and so many life experiences.
This is a true salt of the earth kind of guy. His heart seems pure and his knowledge is way more than he even realizes. I would love to sit and talk to this guy.
The older generation here in EKY worked so hard to get where they are today! I was raised by my mamaw and papaw and I still remember stories from the mines and driving coal trucks! People around here are full of wisdom and can teach you a lot about life every time you get to talk to them! Thanks for uploading man!
I don't know this man but I love this man. God bless him and his thankful, happy spirit. I could listen to him tell stories all day long. His positivity is so refreshing
I grew up in Western NC…this gentleman reminds me a lot of some of my older family members…he’s awesome and full of Appalachian history! Great interview Mark! Blessings🙏💖
Boy I thought you we’re interviewing uncle Ernie. He lives right in that part of Kentucky . Same demeanor same look . What a gentleman that that you interviewed !!
“I’m satisfied no matter where I’m at” … wow this really made me think about my life and how much we focus on what we think we “need” versus just being happy with where we are at and what we already have. All I can do is try to live this way and forget about all the unnecessary things
Precious Paul. Wonderful Appalachian Man. Working hard since grade 5, healthy and awesomeness. Thank You Mark for introducing us to Paul. 🙏 🙏 from Vancouver Canada 🇨🇦
1 minute in, this is exactly what I needed. I'm tired, of struggling to pay rent here in Ca. I'm tired, of low wages. I'm just tired.. But I know I'm not the only one.
A lot of people need to take a leaf out of this mans book, simple happiness at its finest, so refreshing to watch. I am humbled, i aspire to live and do a little better than today. Thank you Paul. Salute .♥️🙏
So much respect for Paul. In all seriousness, I’m 26 years old and have definitely lived an easier life than Paul. I’ve taken all the stereotypical routes of my generation, am well educated, well paid in a respectable career and I can’t say I’m as happy as Paul is. This interview was humbling. Thank you Mark for finding such a wonderful man to share his story.
What a nice guy, he's making the best of life. Has such a great additude about life, hope enough people see this and realize they should always make the best of it. And always know it can always be worse. Not just that, things always get better eventually, it's true. Enjoy the small victories in life.
Another home run interview! He reminds me so much of my dad…same type of upbringing but in south GA, still a humble old man, full of wisdom. I wish Paul a million more years of happiness and good living!! Keep up the good work, Mark!!
Very few would survive now if they had to work hard for it like back in the day. You don't raise it or grow it,you don't eat. Truth. Thank you for sharing!
I find one common thread with your interviews with my fellow Appalachians. We all have a great sense of pride for this area we’re from. Both the landscape and the heritages.
This was such a great interview! I wish he talked longer, this is a man of many stories im sure! Its so awesome to hear someone be truly grateful for how and where they grew up. It reminded me of talking with my grandmother about her first job getting paid 76 cents a week if i remember right. How the world has changed in front of his eyes is amazing, he is a history book
Welcome to KY folks. I grew up hating this place until I was able to get some perspective. Glad I was born here truth be told. Mark if you ever come to Nicholasville or Lexington I would love you meet you just to shake your hand and say thank you for what you do. You are a bright light in a dark world
My little girls “Papaw Paul”. As soon as we come over he takes her to feed the chickens and see the pigs. He’s such a genuine man and will talk your head off for hours!❤️
Those babies are the luckiest girls! This man has the most beautiful soul. Makes me miss my Daddy something awful but sure makes me so proud to be born and raised in Kentucky.
He seems like a real genuine man with a good soul. Cheers to your family
I loved how he was asked about the most difficult time in his life and he just flipped that right around and talked about the most wonderful times in his life!
I noticed that too. Good observation.
You are so right. I hadn't noticed until I read your comment.
He is a genius. Way ahead of us all!
His rough times are his good times.
I loved to work.
Wish I wasn't so old
I absolutely love this man. He holds so much history. Mark, I don't know how you found him, but I am so glad you did.
Couldn’t have said it better 💛
Ditto!
I live in Appalachia them ole guys are all around here. The Ohio River valley is full of meth and opiates and poverty. I have a son and I have spent 21years on keeping him educated about and off the meth and pills. Cannabis is good medicine.
This is a good man, who has lived some kind of life. He appears to be kind, hard working, and while I'm sure he isn't perfect he is authentic.
We need many more like him.
My family is from Clay county KY. This guy is absolutely right about meth being far worse than weed. They do fly choppers over and over the mountains looking for a little weed patch. Meanwhile, meth, oxy pills is everywhere. I do NOT smoke weed, I do drink a little. Not a fan of weed but I WONDER, since there are no jobs down there if they let them grow and sell some weed if they also grow x amount of corn and shuck beans, tomatoes, organic tobacco. I just WONDER how many of them would get off of meth, get outside, dig, sweat, grow, make a little money. I just wonder. The definition of crazy is doing the same thing over and over and expect a different result. Wake the F up KY you have the perfect climate for farming, plenty of land.
I just love the Appalachian people interviews. They are always real and appreciate everything they have worked for
Alot of them had to work hard for what they had. End result is appreciating the smallest things in life
This is the best way to live out a life in this planet
So true
@@chrissparks3254 While the coal company lived high on the hog off their workers $1 an hour pittance. People back then were replaceable cogs, a family had to work twice as hard not to starve.
Thx. Me and all my people live at the very Southern end of the Appalachian Trail. So thank U for the kind words
When Mark asked him “What was the hardest time in your life?” And he said “Well, my life has never really been hard”…That man’s life has been hard AF, he is just tough and content.
Yes. I can't imagine working in the coal mines at such a young age!
Such a wise man. So inspirational!
Ya im sure it was hard but seems he was and is just happy...
@@eklypised His attitude is everything. He seems to take everything in stride, knowing there's always a better day ahead.
It is all perspective, however I definitely understand what you mean.
Mark, I grew up in those mountains until I was 21 yrs old and now as a 33 yr old man this warms my heart ❤️.. Eastern Kentucky has a charm to it like no other place, but yet with the drugs that came into that area in the late 90s and 2000s it tried to take it all away.. Thank you for finding this amazing man and with it reminding me of the beautiful older generation that I grew up looking up to.. I’ve not been back to my hometown for many years, and I only live just a couple hours away in Lexington KY.. I think subconsciously I can cling on to the special times of my past and not have to face the reality of what has happened in those beautiful mountains by staying away.. I would also like to say thank you Mark for always talking so kind about the people and the communities in the Appalachian Mountains.. I love the channel you have created and I seem to catch myself watching video after video every night! God Bless and keep up the great work! ❤
🥇
👍👏👏👏
I’m convinced the gov planted those drugs there because they want that land! They have a history of planting drugs. I’m happy I saw one lady say she was going to the courthouse to keep the land from being sold or mortgaged for 5 generations! Everyone should follow suit!
I am 55 and grew up in the Appalachian mountains of NC…I agree the drug problems are destroying the people, charm and families in our beautiful hills. But my heart and my soul will always belong there! Blessings💖🙏
Big pharma pumped so much of their poison into the mountains
This man is filled with wisdom. Maybe only a 5th grade education, but a lifetime of simple happy living has done more for him than money ever could. Truly inspiring.
I 💯 percent agree, absolutely 🙏🏽
You can tell he's an intelligent person with a good deal of knowledge to share.👍
@@fastwhirlwindstudio come on man 🤣😂
@@fastwhirlwindstudio it’s sad really a liberal should have the value of an empty trash can
@@fastwhirlwindstudio thankfully we’ve got super valuable people like yourself 😒
This man is a gem. A true example of a humble, strong, & kind man . God bless 🤍✝️
Absolutely agree... He has a lovely warming nature
@@nitnickers He comes off very empathic and I believe being in his natural environment is what makes him so wholesome. .
A good man there. Hard worker. 🙏🏼
Agreed. Definitely a humble man.
Agreed. I'd also have enjoyed an interview of his significant other.
He is the cutest and sweetest old man! I love his outlook on life. He's a genuinely happy person.
Agreed
Alicia Garcia dang girl you fine.
@@Madison.Rutherford ...pfttt!🤭
Pu- leeeez! 🤣
@@Madison.Rutherford shooters gonna shoot
He’s just a genuine person all around
Interviews that don‘t take place in the studio make for a nice change sometimes!
I love how people who grow up in Appalacia, no matter their age, refer to mom and dad as, 'mommy and daddy" There's something endearing about this!
That’s Definitely a WV thing. I’m a grown woman and still cal my mom mommy and she still calls her mom mommy. Idk why we do it but it feels so weird calling my mommy “mom”.
I grew up in a more rural part of Virginia (but nowhere near Appalachia), and we called our parents "mumma and daddy" with daddy being more pronounced like "deady." My 75 year old father would still refer to his 93 year old father as "deady." When I worked in a larger city here, my coworkers would comment on how I said that that way, but to us, it's just normal.
@@Sisterofthemoon76 Yes, it is a WV thing. My oldest daughter is 32 and still calls me mommy! And I LOVE it!!!
@@kellyjones4300 Tennessee thang too. As for daddy anyway. Im a 43 year old man and he died when I was 19 but he will always be my daddy.
I’ve had people tease me but they’ll be my Mama and Daddy till I die. It’s what’s in my heart. NC
Paul, you've pulled me up hard out of deep depression & bitterness from years of caring for my beloved husband dying a cruel death from Parkinson's, dementia, & bipolar disorder. I get little sleep, his doctors don't seem to care about old people, I change his diapers, feed him, everything. Sometimes he's the sweet man I've loved for almost 60 years, other times he hates me, blames me, accuses me of robbing him, having affairs, even hits me. Our son & his family seldom call but I don't blame them, there's never good news. Worked hard all our lives, tried to be decent, hard to accept the end of life seems so sad & lonely & all our money used up by the cost of medical care. Your life was worlds harder than ours but you said you don't carry hate in your heart, don't worry, just enjoy all the small, good things in life. You are proof that wisdom comes from living & reflecting with an open mind & heart, not just formal education. Your story has been like a fresh breeze that blew the anger right out of me. Our friends are all dead now but I feel I've made a new one in you. Thank you, Paul. 🙋Sending best wishes❤to you from 🇨🇦. And of course, thanks to Mark for this uplifting story.
Thank u for opening up your life t us
Praying for you & your husband. ❤️
Bless you. I hope you have peace, soon. I'm taking care of my husband as he is in end stsge if life, too. He is getting great Healthcare, and doesn't hit me, but he has dementia and heart problems.
Well said. I'm also sorry. God bless you. ❤
Salt of the earth, love these interviews. It’s important we hear their stories before they are gone. Thank you Mark.
I love hearing the hens and roosters in the background. I grew up on a farm and the sounds bring me a lot of comfort.
My children can't even wrap their head around the idea of growing up with no electricity.
Thank you for sharing your life experience with us. Makes me appreciate our luxuries and comfortable life.
Southern Iowa is similar.....
West Atl Ga...same😁👍
@@wesleyAlan9179 How blessed you are.👍❤️
@@marylougeorge9890
I'm very blessed,ma'am. And I'm thankful...my life could've went down a different path25 years ago, but thank God I have this wonderful lady in my life, she's everything to me and I owe her so much. Im'a go tell her right now!😄😁
I miss it too now that be my alarm clock hearing the roosters in the morning.
As a born & raised Kentucky girl … this man makes me proud. He’s healthy & happy. Loves life. Smokes a little pot. Worries about nothing.
I need this in my life. Please do a interview w his nephew! Blessings.
I can say that it is refreshing seeing true, honest, open, and real life stories. The struggles are real and everyone goes through them. The one thing that these videos have taught me is, it is not how you go into the problem, struggle, or situation it is about the person that comes out the other end. Keep up the great work I know this takes time, money, and energy... side note the Whitaker family is awesome and a national treasure...
Agreed! The Whitaker’s are the channel’s Royal Family. They give me joy.
This channels Royal family!!!! The Whitaker’s YES!!!!!
Such a gentle soul .
@@tammy_vip
They are so sweet . I look forward to seeing Ray and the whole gang .
Well said.👍❤️
My grandpa was also a coal miner, in Nicholas County, WV. He lived to 100, even with a case of black lung. He stayed mentally sharp until the last day. I love hearing these Appalachian interviews because the accents sound just like my grandparents.
he was saying 60 tonnes/2 people/8hrs. thats 100kg every 2 mins. that's nonstop shoveling
"When you sit down, you go down." Wiser words were rarely spoken.
I know Paul very well live 5 miles from him. I’m 51. He is a great man and very respectful. They don’t get any better. He’s a simple man.
Listening to someone a little older with so much sense & pride & is truly happy & content is so refreshing 🙏🏻🥰
“ When you sit down, you go down” This man is the epitome of a true American!!!
Luv him
This is a man I could talk to for hours. Genuine. Honest. Hardworking. Pure Appalachian. 💚
Can you imagine the stories and knowledge he'd share?!
It’s an area of our bea country that I’m definitely gonna visit before I go. I hope I meet someone to tell me a story. I love stories about real people spoken by real people.
I don't worry bout nothing, what a positive response, this man is a legend.
We all need to hang out with him so we can learn how to live.👍👏👏👏
Mark!! Nice! Bet noone threw an "Apple-at-cha!" Thank you for the respect you show for our people and our mountains! I know we are a strange people to some, but we are good, and kind, and honest even though some don't have as much "book-learning" as people in other parts of the country. Thank you for highlighting this guy! He is a true Appalachian!
I've always admired and had a special place in my heart for southerners because of your down to earth values.
Much love from this half Japanese Michigander❤️👏👏👏
That guy has more sense of what's going on than any politician does.
Really good to know that there are still people who appreciate what they have rather than lamenting about what they don't have.
most people in appalachia are like this. it's a happy simple way of life engulfed by nature. they're happy
My Dad was born in 1930. He was raised on his father’s chicken farm. They were extremely poor. My Dad only had an 8th grade education but he was the smartest man I’ve known. I love people like Paul he reminds me of my Dad.
A formal education doesn't determine a person's intelligence. It's something you're born with.👍❤️
@@marylougeorge9890 well said
curious if they had loud roosters on his chicken farm
@@marylougeorge9890 I disagree. Raising children has taught me that we are not born with intelligence. I think It's a willingness or drive to learn that determines how intelligent someone can be, which is both nature and nurture. There are plenty of people that graduated highschool and beyond that never learn anything besides stuff pertaining to their job, and end up being dumber than their middle school aged children. If you never stop learning you will be smarter than the average person, eventually.
@@albertsadler4322 ❤️
Paul you define the definition of hard work. My grandfather was a coal miner, I know how hard he worked to provide for his family. Thank you for sharing your story. Best wishes.
I wish to grow old with an honest, humble and simple heart as this sweet and beautiful man. May God bless him more and live a long life.
What a breath of fresh air! Prayers, blessings and peace to this nice man!
This was a great interview. The Appalachian people are my favorite on the channel by far. Keep up the good work. 👍
You are always welcome to visit or move here! Hope you are able to make the trip someday
I'm all the way over in Australia, and became obsessed with Appalachian stuff. Theres just something about it. The people. The old ways. Bootleggin'.
@@Brads-strung-out I completely agree
@@Brads-strung-out
Haha,absolutely love it too!
My wife and I want to fly to Australia...my wife's been obsessed over going to Australia 😄
@@AdamMWise me and my come to Bryson City, NC for at least a week every year this time of year. Its like stepping into a time warp into a much more relaxed and inviting place that doesn't exist outside of Appalachia. We will relocate here permanently one day. We are country folk from the coast, so we fit right in around here.
How refreshing to have a positive and upbeat life story for a change on SWU. Good luck to him.
Really enjoyed listening to Paul. He seems like a wonderful man and he seems to really enjoy life, even though it was hard.
Great interview! I admire this gentleman's attitude, hard working. He might not be as educated as myself, or many other's, but he's wise.
He's extremely fortunate to be healthy, keeps moving, many working coal miners aren't as fortunate.
Thank you very much for recording this gentleman's life lessons!
Genuine Americana! We need to put this gentleman in our American classrooms to teach values and common sense
@@johnrios6762 Won't help. Too many vacuous Narcissists.
@@frothe42 Sad but true.
Love from Dayton Ohio Mr. Paul. You got another friend up here sir. I hope this reaches you and those you love in great health and happiness❤️🙏😎
You can still hear Irish, and Scottish accent in Appalachian people. It's amazing that has still survived.
Man I'm in tears I could close my eyes and listen to this interview over n over .Reminds me of my grandpa he was a miner in Kentucky then left Kentucky to work for auto industry in Dayton Ohio and started his own church The Rev Jack Carroll...he even looks like Paul. I live in Washington state a military brat California is my home but hearing that Kentucky drawl put me in my grandpa lap today. Thank you
This beautiful soul reminds me of my beautiful Daddy...honest, loving, kind, and the most hard working man ....and by the way..he had a 4th grade education...he was the smartest man I ever knew !!!!💕
Your Dad sounds wonderful 🥰🥰
The Appalachian interviews are my favorite! I loved Ruby's interview. I've watched it several times. Just positive and happy.
My dad only had a 5th grade education.
He's 73, retired from a good job and still constantly on the move doing something.
He's built additions on his house, does plumbing/electrical work and does practically all mechanical work himself.
Education makes you book smart, not useful.
My Dad was exactly like your Dad. My Dad went to 3rd grade. He was brilliant. I miss him so much. He taught me how to survive off the land. "Never rely on anyone, you are way smarter than any man." I am honored to be my father's daughter.
Back in my 20's in NC I went on so many electrical and HVAC service calls to houses owned by older people like this, they were a joy. Some of the best were older black folks, they were the nicest people to be around, it was very common for me to be working on their house and they are insisting I sit down and have lunch with them.
😊❤️❤️❤️
I live in the country in nc and there is truly alot of wonderful people. Doesnt what color they are. Always a blessing to hear other people comment on this. Makes me feel good about where i live
Men like this are the people I know from Appalachia!! Love this interview and it makes me want to travel back there and see my friends. The most amazing and beautiful people and country. Thank you Sir.
My dad grew up in North Loup Nebraska on a farm. He didnt have running water till 5 th grade, no electricity till high school. Went to a 1 room school house till high school. He hated farming so much, he somehow went to Doane college and became an astrophysicist. He just died a year ago at 84.
He is so well spoken, insightful, and thoughtful. Very intelligent. I could listen to his stories all day. I hope he is reading the comments ❤️ from California
I really appreciate you doing the interviews with the older Appalachian people
Yes - More please
His cadence is exactly like my Pawpaw’s who recently passed after a long battle with dementia. Us from Appalachia must hold these folks to our hearts and never forget them. We’re behind the curb in regards to the rest of the country, but we know a simple truth that they have all long forgotten. Thank you for highlighting, and humanizing us like this. Hearing him speak is bringing tears.
I so enjoyed listening to this guy. He gets it, some younger people should take this very wise man’s experiences and contemplate his life lessons.
Us old folks could learn a thing or two from Paul.👍❤️
Hearing this gentleman speak did my soul some good! I could listen to him to talk all day! So much knowledge about so many different topics. What a sweet and beautiful soul! God Bless this man!
"What do you worry about?"
"Nothing!"
What a great way to live - happy, contented and without worry.
The way this man holds himself,his speech, even his facial expressions, remind me so much of my late uncle. I didn’t know I needed this today. Thank you
Compared to a lot of videos I’ve seen on this channel lately this one was truly a breath of fresh air! He seems like such a kind soul and someone you would enjoy conversations with. Stress free, worry free, regrets nothing and has an abundance of friends. We all can definitely take some knowledge from this guy! Also, love his accent.
I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS MAN & THIS INTERVIEW
THANK YOU SO MUCH
As economically disadvantaged as some of these Appalachian folks were, growing up, they have good memories of hard working families and being happy with very little. It sure seems healthier than the urban, drug addicted cosmopolitan contrast.
Have you ever considered going north and interviewing people? There are a LOT of older folks with stories to tell, up here in Maine. Loggers, lobster fishermen, old farmers, veterans.
Lots of second-generation Maine Amish too, which surprises many. Maine's the only New England state with an Amish population.
What do you consider New England? NY, Mass, Vermont, Rhode Island?
@Mystic Being Keep us New Yorkers out of the whole New England thing. We want no part of it. Go Yankees! Go Giants! But I must admit I am a Celtics fan. I get a lot flack for it here in NYC, but it’s the stubborn Irish in me ☘️
@@myeyeswentdeaf6213
Lol!😄 hope you're day's fantastic, my friend 🤟😊
To busy to be depressed
K Fer...I 2nd your comment 😉👍🤞✌
We all should be as grateful and kind as Paul. Loved the interview. Thanks Mark.
These are the interviews I love!!! Paul reminds me of so many great folks I've had in my life. Im born and raised in KY too. Thank you Mark for putting a smile on my face today 😊
Mark don't forget this gentleman, have another interview in the future please
Such genuineness. Not a pretentious bone in Paul's body. What a refreshing person to listen to.
Nice to see there’s still happy, sweet, wise people left in this world. ♥️. Loved this interview.
Awesome..! This was my favorite in a long time. Paul has a 5th grade education, but man is he brilliant…! He has the important things figured out…I will strive to be a little more like Paul….❤️
The Appalachian interviews are by far my favorite. Reminds me of when I lived in Kentucky.
God bless this man and his family I been right in their house, I’m even kin to them on my moms side, you can walk in that house and they ain’t a time a day that a hot meal ain’t setting on the stove, you couldn’t hand pick a better bunch of people, we’ve laughed and cut up and everytime you see the man he’s got a smile on his face, truly inspiring and a honor to be in the community and family
I absolute loved this interview. WV has a such a negative connotation. Hearing him say there’s no other place he’d rather be was beautiful to hear. Heartwarming interview to say the least.
This is by far my favorite interview. I love Paul. I learned a lot listening to him and I admire his way of life and his outlook on everything. He's a kind and intelligent man. He is spot on regarding the drug issues that are in that area. So much effort is made to crack down on marijuana crops it no doubt led directly to the problems with crystal meth. That is the first time I've heard someone say that and it makes perfect sense. I don't know Paul's age but he's smart, thoughtful and hard working and I can honestly see him living to be 100. His happiness is contagious and I'll be thinking about his words for a while. I would love to be friends.
👍❤️
He said he as born in 1946, so around 75.
I loved this interview! Mark i so wish you would do many more interviews with the older folks. So much of americas history is being destroyed and pushed aside. Some day this kind of interview will be all that is left. Thank you and lets see more of these!!
Agree 100%
Even with his 5th grade education I bet there’s a whole lot you can learn from this man
Absolutely 💯
Things they don't teach in school. Things you can only draw wisdom from in life's moments.
Truth!
Don't let education get in the way of learning. Sadly a ton of people don't get that
Paul is definitely one of my new faves. I love listening to him. It’s like listening to a family member. Captivating, friendly and so many life experiences.
I love Paul!!! He’s full of lessons we could all benefit from, thanks so much for sharing his story with us😊❤️
I could just hear it in his voice the honesty, Paul’s living HIS best life
This is a true salt of the earth kind of guy. His heart seems pure and his knowledge is way more than he even realizes. I would love to sit and talk to this guy.
Me too I would love to sit and talk this guy he's awesome✌
The older generation here in EKY worked so hard to get where they are today! I was raised by my mamaw and papaw and I still remember stories from the mines and driving coal trucks! People around here are full of wisdom and can teach you a lot about life every time you get to talk to them! Thanks for uploading man!
I don't know this man but I love this man. God bless him and his thankful, happy spirit. I could listen to him tell stories all day long. His positivity is so refreshing
What a GREAT and uplifting interview! A true "Salt of the Earth" American. Wish we had a few million more like him.
I love your Appalachian videos every time I see a new one pop up I get excited
I grew up in Western NC…this gentleman reminds me a lot of some of my older family members…he’s awesome and full of Appalachian history! Great interview Mark! Blessings🙏💖
A have listened to a lot of interviews, but I like this guy, he lives a simple life, but he knows what going on around him.
Boy I thought you we’re interviewing uncle Ernie. He lives right in that part of Kentucky . Same demeanor same look . What a gentleman that that you interviewed !!
“I’m satisfied no matter where I’m at” … wow this really made me think about my life and how much we focus on what we think we “need” versus just being happy with where we are at and what we already have. All I can do is try to live this way and forget about all the unnecessary things
Precious Paul. Wonderful Appalachian Man. Working hard since grade 5, healthy and awesomeness. Thank You Mark for introducing us to Paul. 🙏 🙏 from Vancouver Canada 🇨🇦
1 minute in, this is exactly what I needed.
I'm tired, of struggling to pay rent here in Ca.
I'm tired, of low wages. I'm just tired..
But I know I'm not the only one.
Such a delightful man. Thanks for the interview.
A lot of people need to take a leaf out of this mans book, simple happiness at its finest, so refreshing to watch. I am humbled, i aspire to live and do a little better than today. Thank you Paul. Salute .♥️🙏
He may have quit school in 5th grade, but, he knows more than a lot of people with degrees. He’s a smart man.
I enjoyed listening to Paul. He's a interesting man. Thank you Mark for your work.
The most positive interview I’ve heard you do yet!! The world needs more Paul’s!
Yes!
This guy is as real as they come. I'm from Ohio and live a country life much like him. He speaks truth. A simple life is best .
What a delight Paul was to listen to. This was so enjoyable, Mark. ❤
Good morning (or good night?) from Brooklyn NY (where it’s 6:00am now) to my SWU fam from around the world.
Good Morning..Michigan here..6.21EST
Good morning from Virginia!
Good morning from Pennsylvania 6:24 AM
Good afternoon? In Poland it’s 12:23 pm.
Good morning from Maine 🌲
So much respect for Paul. In all seriousness, I’m 26 years old and have definitely lived an easier life than Paul. I’ve taken all the stereotypical routes of my generation, am well educated, well paid in a respectable career and I can’t say I’m as happy as Paul is. This interview was humbling. Thank you Mark for finding such a wonderful man to share his story.
I love the older Appalachia people the BEST!!! Thank you Mark and I havent even watched it yet ❤
So glad you're back interviewing Appalachians! These ppl are are amazing.
What a nice guy, he's making the best of life. Has such a great additude about life, hope enough people see this and realize they should always make the best of it. And always know it can always be worse. Not just that, things always get better eventually, it's true. Enjoy the small victories in life.
He is the sweetest man! Lots of lessons about keeping a great outlook on life 🌞
I love the simple wisdom of this sweet man. He is a beautiful example of humanity.
Another home run interview! He reminds me so much of my dad…same type of upbringing but in south GA, still a humble old man, full of wisdom. I wish Paul a million more years of happiness and good living!! Keep up the good work, Mark!!
Very few would survive now if they had to work hard for it like back in the day. You don't raise it or grow it,you don't eat. Truth. Thank you for sharing!
I wouldn't know the first thing about living that lifestyle.
THANK YOU MARK!!! I think the Appalachian stories are my best, especially the older persons. Heart warming, I wish Mr. Paul a wonderful 30 more years.
I find one common thread with your interviews with my fellow Appalachians. We all have a great sense of pride for this area we’re from. Both the landscape and the heritages.
This was such a great interview! I wish he talked longer, this is a man of many stories im sure! Its so awesome to hear someone be truly grateful for how and where they grew up. It reminded me of talking with my grandmother about her first job getting paid 76 cents a week if i remember right. How the world has changed in front of his eyes is amazing, he is a history book
Welcome to KY folks. I grew up hating this place until I was able to get some perspective. Glad I was born here truth be told. Mark if you ever come to Nicholasville or Lexington I would love you meet you just to shake your hand and say thank you for what you do. You are a bright light in a dark world
This interview is so life-affirming! Thank you, Paul