Thank you so much for making these videos!!! I have noticed certain channels with very fancy items( trucks, houses, etc) and i have felt in a sense hopeless in ever going off grid as i don’t have that kind of money. After watching this video, i have more hope on how to really get an off grid property and start building a better life. Thank you for sharing your experience and how it worked for you and for being transparent!
Just found your channel randomly in my feed. Probably from watching “my self reliance” channel👍 I’m approaching fifty years old, lived in the mountains of Northern California for a fair amount of my life except for college, then L.A., Sacramento, and San Francisco, but am currently back in the woods. People like you and your wife are truly exceptional in this day no age where nobody wants to work for anything. Your hard work while simultaneously never taking out loans and then selling your previous homesteads to enable you to save more and ultimately work your butt off more is truly inspiring👍. Additionally, teaching your children that hard work, the ability to learn and not be afraid of failure, will be life lessons that they carry forever and will lead them to success as well. Wish there were more people in the world like you and your wife. Tru;y inspiring! I’m a fan and I subscribed😉. Now I might get in trouble with the wife as I go down the wormhole of your videos and spend way too much time admiring your handiwork🤔 I’m joking, she’ll let it slide as she wishes I was more confident to do the wonderful things you’re doing👍
I'm a city dweller (Berlin, Germany) and even I smell BS when people with high tech equipment and fancy cars try to tell me on RUclips that they're living the real off grid life. I rather watch people like you and your wife, because I know you are REAL and I hope you keep it that way.
well, some actually have the means and dollars to start off with a lot of equipment, but of couse if they do they should say so, even if it is getting stuff trough sponsoring
Salty Winchester......Dave and Brooke's channels are brilliant. I love them. If you want to watch another one - try "My Self Reliance" he's in northern Ontario, Canada...another brilliant guy - Cheers.
I read the entire Ryan’s ruclips.net/user/postUgkxGqOCINHE0Z0E5gxzSdNi9NWGugRY5Hm2 Plans and was able to make a shed plan. Using Ryan’s Shed Plans alone, the shed itself is great. Where I wish I knew more is with respect to ground preparation and foundations. Maybe that's beyond the scope of Ryan’s Shed Plans.
It seems we live in the times of the victim, the bible mentions how in the end times people will be offended at the slightest thing. We must be wiser than the serpent in these times.
@@zrkn1 -- Wiser than the serpent or similar ilk like the woke-zombie cult of infinite virtue and meaningless pandering... I mean, we are in a Clown Show Dumpster Fire - someone should make a series or character of it ... could be tricky, even the Babylon Bee is having issues coming up with "unbelievable, nuanced and crazy stories", these days! End The Fed!
Dave, keep in mind, you can't please all the people, all the time. Some people think camping is throwing their sleeping bag on the ground and watching the stars at night. Others believe camping is going to the Holiday Inn and opening the windows. I don't watch your channel and say, "Wow! Now that's the way to do it." I watch your channel - and others - to get ideas and gain insight into how I want to do something. Just keep doing what you're doing, buddy, and you'll have me as a faithful follower for the duration....
Dave, your off grid is a lie” video is probably one of the most important ones for the “off grid” / homestead/ tiny homes community. My partner and I live in a tiny home and we like to watch this type of content for ideas for improvement or troubleshooting. While we enjoy a lot of the videos, it can be quite discouraging seeing all these people who you know started with quite a lot - like you said, they sold their hundreds of thousands of dollar house to go “off grid”, or they have a work from home corporate job. Which is great for them and no shade, but I’m glad you could show us from a typical working persons’ perspective of how you and Brooke made your life together.
Good for you! We built an earthbag house that we've lived in it since 2015. I love every innovative thing that I see people doing. I didn't find Buahradicals video to be calling out anyone for being right, or wrong, or anything else. There is definitely a difference between the opinions of folks who are doing it versus the spectators. I also agree that I've seen videos where people have brand new equipment, new private sawmills, and semi trucks full of logs and such. Especially when they don't seem very familiar with their equipment I always think, "yeah, the average person can no way do that." If you ever get hateful messages or reviews or whatever, don't worry about them. They say more about the people that left them than they do about you. Cheers!
@@patgenier1965 Corporals Corner always begging for likes and subs in all of his videos 😂 He also tells you to download the youtube app when it is not needed to watch videos here at youtube.
@@patgenier1965 - asking for anything is fine. Begging for subs or patreons is another thing, entirely. Making it known is fine. Begging is not - though to each his or her own. Void where prohibited. Your mileage and Off Grid lifestyle will vary!
@@kingrafa3938 - there are different features with the "app" or "apps" ... on desktop, mobile and what not - just because it is not "needed", does not mean people would hate or dislike those features.
It is a rare quality in normal times. We are not living in normal times. Centralized system and planners are the excuse for petty and not-so-petty tyrants. Off Grid Living, for Life! End The Fed! End private centralized banks*, everywhere! * - Void where prohibited. Their level of tyranny will vary. End the BIS.
I'm glad you made this video. Husband and I are disabled vets who want to go off grid and go back to the basics. We've always lived in the city or rurally. We have a mortgage and are really trying to be free from bills and live free. This video helped me. I was so discouraged when I saw folk with all the off grid supplies and like they had millions of dollars. I can't afford their type of off grid. I like yours and (my self reliance). Y'all really encourage me.....love Michigan
@egyptiandaughter2818 I say go for it if you have the energy to make it happen. Good things happen when you ask the universe for help. When I built my first off grid cabin I was about chest high on the first floor and didn't look like I was going to make it for winter time. One saturday morning about 12 neighbors showed up unannounced and over the course of two days we got the first floor done, the second floor done and the rafters up. It was like a regular old barn raising! I look back at it now and realize that there are a ton of good people in this world. Those 12 people were my salvation. Keep the faith and you will succeed if you put your minds to it. Good luck.
Hope you make it! Cutting most bills will be awesome. You'll still need cash for tools, clothes, maintenance stuff, even in the best cases. I am a little dismayed how much that can add up to, but I guess we do as well as we can!
Awww....you definitely can't please everyone. People will always complain, poke fun, etc. Your videos, and Brooke's videos are awesome, so entertaining and I look forward to watching them. One of my favorites is the video you did where you paint your car black for $20. Don't apologize for the things you say. It's obvious that you're not snobbish, etc. You do not give off an air of arrogance. Your intent is pure and honest. Please do not change!
My grandparents were "off-grid" over in Ogemaw Co, MI until 1950 (Not by choice). There was a lot about their farm that I experienced as a kid in the 1960s that I really didn't understand until I was older and then understood what living without electricity meant. Keep it coming as I found your discussion a breath of fresh air on the subject.
I stumbled on your channel a few days ago. I really enjoy seeing you work towards your dream. I am nearly 70 and define off grid as being away from the dog eat dog world. You really see this when you retire, and the world whirls on around you. I have zero debt, I have sufficient retirement income for basic needs, I am free to do what I want with my days, and I no longer have to kiss any butt or put up with any you know what. I do however live in a small house with a small garden and a small cat in a "small" city-where I can walk to most things I need. When I went off-grid I stopped watching TV and going to movies, stopped constantly eating out, stopped buying the newest, latest, best things. My 3 year old phone (thanks to 5G) is mostly on "do not disturb" or just turned off. I no longer want to be first-I am happy with being next. I think most channels miss the one most important aspect of living off grid-The living part. At some point your cabin and land improvements will be done. Then what? Lets see more fishing, hiking, camping, and maybe yes (the horror) hunting in the videos.
You don’t have to explain yourself Dave! Your long term subscribers know what you and Brooke are doing. You’ve always made it very clear! You didn’t stutter! Off grid living means just what you said it is- no mainstream utility hookups, etc. You’re living debt free and depend on yourselves. Nothing wrong with that.
Exactly! Plus I have never watched their videos but going on the comments they never claim to live off the grid. While using a smart phone or computer to record videos, also to live off the grid means you make all your own clothes and everything! My definition would be not needing money to buy anything at all and making your own clothes, hunting, cooking, make you own shelter and of course no smart phones or computers
@@BlazeBuds Your off-grid defination is very austere. I don't think anyone lives like that. If they do, according to your definition, we'd never know bcos they'd have nothing to record it on , except maybe written /drawn on tree bark or the such like. Dave does a great job of explaining , in BOTH videos , what the meaning of today's "off-grid living" is really about. My take away from these to videos from Dave is him answering questions put him by OTHERS who want to understand the discrepancies creeping into this area that is becoming very popular and lucrative in this day and age. If you can't sit down and listen to Dave aka Bush Radical, without getting yourself all uptight & twisted then you really need a chill pill. This guy and his lovely wife Brooke aka Girl in the Woods are so down to earth , kind, and pleasant to listen to, not a mean nor arrogant bone in their bodies. Always encouraging and sharing helpful hints from their experiences. Just real down to earth folks , loving life and sharing it as they go. If Dave's videos answering the questions put to him about those Hollywood off-grid YT creators offend you, DONT ATTACK HIM, go talk to the face you see in the mirror, that's the one with the problem. 🇦🇺🤗💞🙏✌️👍👏
Agreed, Debra Saints! There is no need to explain on Dave or Brooke's part. They are simply "doing them" and the authenticity of that is remarkable in a culture so obsessed with doing the popular/cool/most consumeristic thing.
Exactly Debra: Always appreciate your videos. I’ve learned over the years that when you do something well and it’s publicized, you get haters. Stop giving them a voice, like Debra said, us long term subscribers know you’re legit. Keep up the awesome videos!
The word is "authentic." Sure, there are tons of channels that go through the motions but their solution involves money, contractors or sponsorships. What you and Brooke have offered the audience is an authentic example of how it can be done...not just to attract sponsors or create another iteration of the Kilchers. This topic is real and in focus, for many people, as life in the 'burbs or city centers becomes untenable. Thanks for occupying your space with authenticity.
You and Brooke are some of the most authentic people I watch on RUclips. The ones of us who have been with you from the long haul know where you are coming from. Keep doing you!
Dave & Brooke, I’ve been following you for a few years, since before I became a subscriber. You are indeed some of the most authentic, transparent, and kind-hearted people I “know.” Thanks for sharing your “sweat equity” ideas!! -B
I'm going to make a bold statement here. This has become my favorite RUclips channel. YT is by a long shot, my favorite social media. I follow countless accounts. Sports, fishing, boating, motivation, men's health, etc. This channel is educational in a way that today's world needs to see. Sweat equity, gotta love that. Keep up the excellent work. Best wishes from the swamps of Louisiana! ⚜️🐊
I never could get the cost of a house to pencil out for me during my work career. Either I was too broke to buy or by the time my income had gone up the houses were insanely expensive. I rented, saved and invested and when I retired I found land and built my place with a workshop for cash. So what you're saying Dave makes perfect sense to me. It speaks to your soundness as a person to clarify for those who didn't get the first video.
Dave, in comparison to your channel most everyone out there claiming to live the 'off grid' lifestyle is a poser. Your integrity, honesty and transparency shines through in everything you and Brook do. You inspire us to believe that their are alternatives to a hamster wheel existence to make our lives more meaningful.
I watched this in my basement while my electric furnace kept me warm, thinking, 'I could walk out my front door, walk 150 yards into bush, and film and a non-transparent, "off grid, tiny home build" in the bush' and no-one would know that the bush was financed by mono-crop agriculture, and the build by a sideline crown corporation job. Love the channel, the dream is really to build a 'shack' to have morning coffee in with the MRS. and enjoy nature as a retreat.
It's easy for "off gridders" to afford their land and houses when they're on cable and getting paid for it. What I like about yours and Brooke's channels is that you really make it seem attainable for just the "Average Joe" to try the off-grid experience. What I've watched from both channels is you ARE transparent: you explain your costs, you show how hard it is to get where you're at (never will forget the vid on the well drilling by hand) and you're honest about what tools you use and where you get your supplies. You are both inspirational.
The thing that I always appreciated was the equipment list Brooke would have in her videos and the way you would talk about how you would use scrap materials in your building projects. That's how I realized that I wouldn't need to go to a hardware store for everything because if I trashed something, I wasn't out much in cost. I was learning and saving. Transparency like you said. I'm sorry so many people didn't understand that. Please keep doing what you're both doing, it's so helpful. 🙌🏽
I'm sure I'm not the only subscriber to your & Brooke's content that truly appreciates just how genuine and down to Earth you both are. Could be the biggest motivator to the negativity you're getting is simply jealousy of your joy ... "sweat equity" is paying you dividends that some folks wish could be put on a credit card. We've been designed to get satisfaction out of being creative and productive. Thanks a million for the inspiration, Dave! See you down the road, Brother ... God Bless :)
You did the right thing. People now days, unfortunately, they like the fake reality shows, and cannot handle/stand the thruth. You just show them the truth about it and how it's really done it. Keep up the great work and God bless you and your family!!!
Yes, I agree...they are fervent supporters of these channels they follow, almost to an obsessive degree...makes me wonder who they are defending...watching someone getting something done or sitting on their couch, wishing to get something done but don't do anything...so, of course, they are going to defend their idealization of what should be done, without really getting it done, without sweat equity...they have to defend the image of what they would like to be or have, though ludicrous with some utubers out there not painting the true reality...
Keep speaking your truth Dave. Eventually, everyone will realize you come from the place of save your money and build what you can afford now without going into debt to the banks which will make you an indebted slave to the evil elite system. The most important thing with regards to finance is to keep more money in your pocket then, you give away via buying things you do not actually need. It's like a pin ball game...build up your game points and try not to lose those points (aka lose your money).
I love the point you’re making. Years ago I saw youtube “prepper” who did this kinda stuff but he’d use a huge backhoe to dig his gardens and had an above ground pool. I can see the point of using a machine to do something, but a pool is a total waste of resources.
Hi ! If I wanted to make a major life change , the decision can't be made without serious , in depth research . As a note taker with an "engineer" mindset , if there isn't a clear , reasonable , do-able process to get me from where I am , to where I want to be , the project is dead in the water . Watching Brooke tackle a task is "real life" ! She films the good , the bad and the ugly...there is no fluff . If I'm willing to go through the same task , knowing the reality it demands , the success rate is more sure ! Thank you both for caring about the quality of our chosen paths and your willingness to make a vital video for our benefit !!! Be safe , well and YOU !
Love your channel Dave, I’m a 29yo woman, you’ve inspired me to take things into my own hands and put in sweat equity so I’m not a slave to a bank for the next 30years. I built my own bed frame this summer with some free plans I found online. Now I want to build a copy of the black/red cabin you and Brooke did a few years ago! Hopefully this summer I can do that!
Thats the way to truly be off the grid! Make all your own stuff and leave the technology behind. Once you are set up you have no purpose for money, plants can provide medicine and such. Basically living an Amish lifestyle i guess
You are spot on. I have this same beef with content creators in the DIY and woodworking space. I got into DIY thinking I was going to build amazing furniture for $20 and a can of pop, or renovate a kitchen with nothing but lucky deals and the sweat off my brow. Then you find out how much tools cost, the hardware that was omitted in the build, the cost of mistakes, and so on. All of that is left out, and my wife and I have made some financial mistakes finding out the truth of DIY projects. I have found the exact same thing in the off grid space. People will say "I built my homestead for $X" where X is insanely low and you find out later in the video they inherited the land. Well, land isn't free for the rest of us. I took your video as a reality check and sometimes reality checks are tough for people to hear. But it's good and honest, and I think on balance most of us appreciate it.
Dave I enjoy the content you and your wife puts out. You guys worked your tails off to get where you are. Best part, no sponsors, nothing owed. You dont have to put or advertise a certain product. Thank you for being true.
I’m from Michigan and my husband and I are debt free now. We are saving for a remote piece of property. I stumbled upon you both and appreciate how transparent you are about how easy it can be if you dig in the dirt and make it happen. I have left some other channels that seem to constantly have sponsors and big budgets. Sustainable living doesn’t include several pleasure ride horses. We get what you are saying. Thanks for all your efforts!
It's really interesting how differently so many people took that first video. I actually really appreciated the first video. This channel has always been so much more relatable to me because it all seems so much realistic or attainable than some of the other channels where people spend enormous amounts of money on stuff.
Hello, I enjoy your videos. You have inspired me over the last couple years to build my own cabin. Debt free, one piece at a time. As they say "Rome wasnt built in a day". Remember you a true inspiration to some people who watch you.
I watched a couple who were living off grid and build a log cabin and the trees came from the land etc. They kept saying it costs them nothing because they had their own garden. I wrote to them and asked them if they pay property tax. He wrote back and said "yes we pay property tax" ........so they were misrepresenting the "it doesn't cost us anything".......I appreciate so much you and Brooke's HONESTY about the whole thing, costs, hardships, possibilities. It isn't anyone's business what you do in your life. I for one am grateful and appreciative that you share part of it with us.
Thanks for this video. I used to watch a variety of shows about building off grid homes and finally stopped because they were unrealistic for the average person. I have the same issue with tiny homes. I thought the original idea for that concept was for the average person to be able to afford a house without huge debt. Then the homes started costing $50,000 and alot higher and that didn't include the cost of land. I enjoy watching both you and Brooke do what you do. Take care.
It's your (and your wife's) transparency that had me subscribe to your channel. I've always enjoyed all of your content and continue to do so. Keep up the fantastic work.
Love your transparency and the use of the term “micro systems “. Over the years I’ve seen many couples attempt building the self sufficient lifestyle. Most did not stay with it and/or didn’t stay together. The hard work, creativity and willingness to learn isn’t for most. Kudos to you for putting everything out front. Finding a property that isn’t zoned to hamper what you’ve been able to do is also a major part of creating a home.
I’ve been following you and Brooke for over a year and one thing I’ve learned about either one of you, you are, neither judgemental, arrogant, or know it all people. You share your love of raw land, your ability to build these beautiful cabins that could be used as an off grid property and then you give all kinds of advice on how to be successful. Keep doing what you’re doing, kudos to both of you and your channels!!
Hi Dave I’m from UK and followed both yours and Brooke’s channels for a while. I understand your logic regarding what you consider “off grid ‘’ To me the Microsystems is a great concept to give people an insight into what they would have to negotiate to even begin off grid lifestyle. Love your channels and your work ethic. You also have fun doing what you enjoy most which brings joy to a lot of people. Wising you a great year ahead
I'm old. OLD. I was blessed to grow up poor and it gave me skills that enrich my life daily. I'm on a fixed income and doing great even though it's a small income. I see other seniors around me with larger incomes who struggle daily because they don't have the skills growing up off grid taught me. They just can't manage their "needs". You and Brook teach me something every video. Loved y'all on Alone! The only thing that disgruntles me is we don't have any birch trees here and I want to try birch bark tinder. Lol
I watch you and your wife periodically. I’m 55, currently on my own and I have been thinking about off grid as an option for the very reasons you talk about. I wish that lifestyle had been on my radar when I was younger. I tried to go the traditional way and it never really worked for me. Now I’m getting older and have absolutely nothing to show except crappy credit. If I get to retire before I’m 70 I’ll count myself lucky. I do have a few very important things. Willingness to learn, good health and I’m not afraid of a little hard work. Off grid could be an option for me to cut expenses so that I can retire.
Good luck with your journey to go off grid. I’m 61 now and we went off grid last year. Admittedly we had already renovated our country house before deciding to go fully off grid. We will never ever regret the decision. Some of the hardest work I have had to do in my life but certainly the most rewarding. My wife and I are both city slickers for want of a better description and are complete amateurs as far as farming is concerned but we can learn and there is a wealth of information out there covering every topic you need to learn about. There is nothing better than knowing in the event of most disasters you can survive because you have your own utilities set up. Power, water, sewage, food and shelter. 😊 and as a bonus off the beaten path as well.
I was almost in the same boat. I looked and looked. Found a kinda swampy fully wooded lot in a once thriving now almost deserted resort spot really desolate and really cheap. Cleared out a spot to hide my car and lived there when the weather was good (not winter weather). Paid cash. 1-1/2 hour drive to work. I saved my money, looked and looked and looked some more and found a near dilapidated but sturdy shack in another resort community for $13,000 paid cash for that and am slowly fixing it up. But this was a 2-1/2 hour commute from work so I quit the freaking job and found something closer to my new paid off abode. The new place is 300 square feet, I don’t have it connected to electric, has a hand pump outside and a path to the bath. It’s not perfect but it’s cheap and I’m slowly fixing it up as I get the cash. I’m in my late 50’s and was just sick of paying bills.
Love this channel! I think you go above and beyond explaining things from your perspective and I appreciate that. Looking back, the main reason for having what I have today is simply shrinking every single unnecessary expense. Basically boils down to, (regardless of anyone’s income) to put it simply, “living below our means” not diving headfirst into debt to impress people. And like you said, “ putting sweat equity” into building a future, instead of paying off the past, and being a slave to the system. Keep rocking my friend. I look forward to seeing your next project!
Dave I've been a big fan of your channel for a long time. I always wanted to live off grid and it always bugged me when these channels have high dollar equipment and not saying how they got it. My wife, son and myself have been off grid for going on three years. Your channel is one of the very few that show what it's really like. Keep the awesome content coming.
Love your logic and vocabulary. Introducing a word such as servitude to such a large audience, or apostle in it's proper context, it helps people, moves the dial a little. You and your wife are part of a bigger collective which gives people such as myself the confidence not only on a homestead, but doing simpler tasks too. You're doing great.
Its your channel that inspired me to go off grid. It was put money down and get a loan for 250k+ to stay in the area of my job or own my tiny dry shed on 2 acres out right. Without you I'd be in debt. I'm happy, heathy, and down over 60 pounds. Thanks Dave and God bless you
Chris Trait (Mike Gees) comment is so true! The TV off grid people have cash - not true off gridders. They have ATVs, 4x4s, high power generators, and electrical systems that cost thousands. A true off grid person tries to survive with their own sweat & blood.
It's because of how you and Brooke started with sweat equity, limited expenditure, and sound land purchases over years that led me to your channel. Keep it up! We appreciate ya!
As a person that grew up in rural area, I can confirm that you're the real deal, and I like you and Brooke show the real life. Also, very much common sense in your attitudes and logic (ironically, as they say, common sense is not that common). Thank you for your content!
You and your wife are the most humble, intelligent, hard-working and likable people! Keep making your glorious, radical off-grid and cabin-building videos ❤
Dave I think you nailed it. A lot of what people are looking for is the freedom from the everyday barrage of hustle and bustle. You and Brook show people they can have that without breaking the bank. Thanks for the content.
Omg! I love you (and Brooke) so much! It is amazing how easily offended some people can be. It's always been my understanding that people who have nothing to hide have nothing to get up in arms about. I watch other "off grid/homesteading" type channels and learn bits and pieces from many of them (honestly, sometimes I learn what NOT to do), but I believe you and Brooke are the real deal so I have a tendency to gravitate to your channels. And if you have this 'air of superiority', allegedly, then it's probably truly just the confidence of knowing exactly what you're talking about as opposed to someone who blows smoke up people's backsides for LIKES and VIEWS. (was that too radical? lol)
You guys are two of the few off grid type channels I am still subscribed to. There’s nothing wrong with getting ahead, but the love of money over the well being of others is at the root of all human problems. RUclips, social media in general, are prime examples and if you try to get in the way of that you find out pretty quickly who is real and who isn’t.
Awesome video, Dave, as usual! So a person can BUY an off-grid lifestyle expensively, or they can MAKE an affordable lifestyle by relying on sweat equity to provide what is needed (water, electricity, sewer)...and that latter option just ends up being off-grid. You and Brook have always been very clear about this. Thanks!
My husband and I immediately liked your channel and your wife’s channel because of how realistic all the work you do is. We appreciate the transparency so we can judge where we are at and what is a possible project for us. I can only imagine how much work goes behind all the content you both offer in your videos- sweating, building, filming, cooking, and editing. I always look forward to your videos. God bless.
Thank you being so open and honest about how you did things. So often, we see where people have ended up without hearing about the struggles it took to get to that place. You haven't sugar-coated your journey...with both the good and bad. I, for one, appreciate the honesty. I follow you and Brooke for that very reason. Thank you.
I totally understood what you were saying. I had already unsubscribed from several "fake" off grid channels that had a new truck, tractor, etc. every month. The way you explained it made sense. If you want to live off grid OK. If you want to live off grid until you can afford a better to you home OK. (but to me true off grid is amazingly calming) But to claim to be off grid, when you are not, just to make money is disingenuous.
You and your wife lift people up and encourage them. Very positive content. You guys have two of the best channels on RUclips. In these dark times we need all the light we can get. Thank you.
You and Brooke are the most down to earth awesome people. I think that lots of people that write comments don’t even bother to watch the actual video. They just get a visceral reaction to title and feel compelled to comment. Kind of like how people tell you about a news article by just reading the headline, but if they read the article it’s a totally different take..I’ve been guilty of this😂 But it’s cool everyone has their own style and you can pick and choose what works best for your own off grid project on the tube. You guys really helped me with mine! keep inspiring😄
I appreciate you putting this video out for clarification. I love your philosophy and explanation regarding how doing Offgrid living can help you get ahead. I've been working full time as a software engineer for almost 20 years and even with all that grind I've never felt I could afford a nice home in a setting I would actually want to live in. I don't want to mortgage 30+ years of my life to have a big material responsibility that I had no part in building.
I appreciate your videos Dave and Brooke's too. I just want to live as simply and basically as possible. That's why I enjoy your videos. Keeping it simple is my goal. Thank you for keeping all your content basic with no frills!
I have watched your channel for years and these two videos have to be your *MOST IMPORTANT!* We are talking about people's lives here. Going offgrid (I went 7 years ago) is very rough, and people need to know what they are getting into or they can lose everything! It's like exercise equipment marketing. You are over weight and want to improve your health. You see an ad for a new exercise bike and see the results of people losing all their body weight. You end up buying it and get none of the results and get depressed. What you didn't see was these people also got a dietitian, changed their diet, did other activities while using the bike, and had a trainer. Offgrid Living content is like that on some channels and can get people into serious trouble using those channels as realistic experiences when you leave out very material pieces of information.
My father built a beautiful, large, off grid home and he and my mother lived there for years. We had propane for a cook stove, fridge, dryer,and one small heater in the downstairs bathroom. It was heated by two wood stoves, one wasn't used that often. We were able to have a well dug, likely hitting good water not to far down, we had a large water storage tank, we pumped water with a pump and generator. We also had a septic tank. Some might say that's not really off grid. It was a 4&1/2 mile drive in a private dirt and gravel road to get to the property. We had to cut our own firewood, which was ready available on the forty acres. We had to pump water and bring in gas for the generator. We had to maintain the road a year long and there was snow in the winter. We had a International with a small snow plow and a farm tractor. When my father built the house it was wired for 110 and 220, there were a few propane lights and if we ran the generator we could have lights. My dad also kept batteries charged for backup in case of a generator problem. We had to burn or remove all our trash. My mom could run the generator to run the washing machine. We had everything, it was about a 45 minute drive to a small town were they got their mail and could groceries shop at a small store. Another 30 minutes drive from that town was a larger town with pretty much everything you needed. The house set just off the top of a mountain and there was a beautiful view of the Sonora Pass area of the Sierra Nevada mountains, a view to die for. It did coast a lot for my dad to build such a home off grid, but it was always his dream to live that way. Years before he bought that property he told me one day as he a I drove the road across the canyon from it that one day he was going to build a place on top of that mountain, and as look at it he did. After my father passed away my mother didn't want to live there alone, so she bought a small mobile home near were my sister and I lived. We kept the house on the mountain for many years after that and it was I who took on the reasonable for maintaining it. You always had to plan ahead for winter, propane tank had to be filled, generator need checked over, gas barrel had to be filled, water pump checked out. The there is summer, making sure things are clear and clean around the house, a fire break in case of forest fire. Cutting And splitting wood for winter. It's a lot of work living off grid even when you have things like propane, wells, and septic tanks...it all has to be maintained year round. Plus there's your road, grading and sometimes having to bring in gravel. However, I wish we would of not sold it so my mother could have the income from it to live out her life. I miss it so much, so do my children. Maybe one day again I can live that way. I love the Sierra Nevada mountains 🌲🏞️❣️
All the criticisms of your first "Off Grid Living is a Lie" video reminds me of that old Ricky Nelson song "Garden Party." You can't please everyone so you have to p[lease yourself. Keep doing what you're doing. You and Brooke are inspirations to those folks who want to be radical. I enjoy watching how y'all have built a good life that makes you happy. God bless.
I love this video. The lack of transparency in "off-grid" channels drives me nuts. A very popular 20something "off grid" RUclipsr has slowly been exposed for not truly living like they were portraying, but instead it was a part-time property on their parents' land. I love the micro-system idea, as I believe that is more realistic and attainable. You and Brooke are awesome, educational, and uplifting.
Good for you, addressing the issues professionally and calmly. Most of homesteading is also addressing problems calmly and professionally. Thanks for both videos.
You are correct. Alot of times,you se people doing the work but they have been afforded unrealistic " help" by sponsorship,crowd funding; etc. They market their product, which is views. You are most definitely a sweat equity creator. My family appreciates the honesty. Keep up the quality work.
Thank you for explaining what didn’t need to be explained for those of us who have followed you or Brooke. You are the least-judgmental, most-generous/sharing couple I have encountered on RUclips. I don’t own any property at all; about a year from now, we will (Lord willing) pay off our mortage, and own one property in a small town north of Pittsburgh. But I spend time in the woods (mostly hammock-camping, 15-30 nights annually, which I didn’t begin until I was sixty, and am 68 now), so I always enjoy everything you and Brooke share with us about the outdoors, and about ANY way to enjoy them. Thanks so much; may God bless you both.
When I started thinking about building an off grid getaway place I discovered yours and Brooke's channels, and you both inspired me more than any other channels on similar topics. I have had to do things on a shoestring budget, but you both helped me to see that it could be done. I have my little off grid cabin in NZ now ( still a work in progress) and i want to say I really appreciate the content you have made. It still inspires me with fresh ideas. Thank you!
Hey Dave, we have been subs of you and Brooke for almost 3 years. I have always enjoyed everything y’all do especially the off grid cabins and building projects. If people would just slow down and put a little thought into what they’re watching, they may get a little bit of perspective of the different types of individuals doing these things. I too like transparency. I have no issue with the individual that has $1 million bank account buying something out in the woods and building a cabin. But they shouldn’t portray them barely scraping by to get it done with Equipment nobody else can afford. And I enjoy the way you can show young people There is an alternative way but with that comes hard work. You’re always crystal clear and that is much appreciated. I grew up in the upper peninsula. I have always loved it up there been back a few times to visit family and I finally ended up buying 36 acres with a small rundown cabin on it at the end of October. My wife and I basically want to have a place we can spend time enjoying the area. We got a bit of a deal on it because it appeared to be someone else’s broken dreams. Have a little bit of work to do with a small budget and lots of elbow grease. You just keep doing what you’re doing, we always enjoy it. And be blessed.
Don't sweat the haters and trolls, man. Your previous video (while the title did lean on the click bait side) didn't come off as you knocking other channels or other off grid living styles. I really appreciate how transparent you try to be with your audience on what someone can expect when trying to get into this lifestyle. Keep up the great work and know I'll be looking forward to the next video!
Just caught up, Dave.Your previous vid explained how you guys came to live off-grid.Totally clear & not arrogant at all, damn hard work & resourcefulness.Many channels, not all, have clarity & explain their timeout from corporate as a hobby & I respect that clarity. Big respect to you from UK
You've earned another subscriber because of YOUR honesty and transparency. How refreshing, and thank you for that. I watch both types of channels, but the one I watch with the fancy stuff actually started out dirt poor, raised in a shack, an actual shack, in Mississippi. They're older and work really hard for older folks. The others are low tech and low income. I only watch 1 fancy homestead channel, but again, their origin isn't even close to fancy.
Dave, thanks for your great channel! You and Brooke are two of my absolute favs! Please ignore the haters... some people are so unhappy with their own lives that they are just looking for something to gritch about!!! You two are so relatable and encouraging, and I personally think you are wonderful!! Thanks again!!! Blessings to you both!
Another thing I really dig about you and Brooke is that you don't buy into the consumerism game. I think that's a big difference between you and these other channels you're talking about. Honestly, it makes your channel so much more relaxing to watch. I think consumerism is the death of our culture and planet. If you're constantly focused on consumerism, you miss so many opportunities for freedom and creativity. It makes me sad some of these channels that started out with more of a frugal, build it ourselves lifestyle but now because they've got all this income coming in through youtube, etc, they are right back to consuming- Simple Living Alaska comes to mind- and they need ALL the toys and products to live their life. Part of the deal with being "off grid" is that you're less reliant on what the rest of the culture deems necessary to life. It's simpler for a reason. Some of these other channels are not doing off grid as you say, but instead are just living rural.
I didn't see the video you were referring to, but I agree 💯 with you. You did a great job of explaining where your coming from. Realistic expectations are important when setting out to achieve your dream. Thanks for your informational videos and for taking us along for the ride!
There's no way anyone who has watched your videos extensively could question your views and experience on this subject. You run possibly the most honest, authentic channel on RUclips, please keep it up.
I think the allure of off-grid living speaks to a bigger need of people in our modern world: how to live deliberately. Out of that deliberateness comes happiness. It seems to me, watching you and Brooke, that you are always busy and at work on building something new. (Building is not the means to an end but rather a way of engaging with life...) You build places where you can in theory hang out and relax and be free. But the true freedom seems to come from working on something, making something rather than having someone make it for you. From being creative. And that's what "off grid living" might ultimate mean. Being independent, having the resourcefulness and wherewithal to solve at least most of your problems on your own. It harkens back to some of the writing of Thoreau, like his poem "Independence." Good work, Dave.
I thank both Brook and yourself for the in-depth look at your experiences and approach at the tasks you two do together, as well as alone. You guys rock!
Hi! I had never been aware of the term or way of living described as “off grid” until one of your videos came up in my feed. I’ve watched a few of your videos and some from other channels. I have concluded that no matter how it is defined, there is real beauty in seeing folks who truly love outdoor-centric life, and the different means by which they power or service that way of life. We are humans, who get cold in winter months and need to warm up, sleep, and eat. I enjoy seeing people build the structures, cook delicious meals, and revel in the unpopulated outdoors. I think there is a viable market for people who would like to experience this way of life for a week or a weekend! Cheers!
I only saw your video yesterday and it was the first one I had seen. I thought it was an amazing story of how you had built a life avoiding all the pitfalls of modern living. I think that it would still be possible to do what you did these days, but the amount of work required would intimidate a many and I am not sure everyone would have the confidence to push ahead with their plans, especially as you say, when there are so many experts out there to overcomplicate things. I know that whatever I do, I have to do myself because I just don't have the cash to buy the fancy equipment and employ others. What I really took home from your post was that you and your wife have been a team with a common goal and view of the world which is so important, I think that cracks would form in many relationships would start to show. Many thanks for sharing your story.
I was born and raised 'off-grid' so were my parents and grandparents and so on and so on. My grandparents and great- grandparents were granted land in the early 1800s under the Homestead Act of the early to mid 1800s were you legally applied for free land that you agreed to clear 2-3 acres per year, build a livable home, dig a well that would provide enough water for you, your family and your livestock, fence off a portion of the land with barbed wire, raise enough livestock to support yourself and family, have a garden that was sufficient enough for your family and to grow enough grain to meet your needs and to feed your livestock. All of this was recorded every year. If you didn't meet all of these requirements the Government took the land back and you had to vacate it, legally. Everything you bought was purchased with cash. The men often hired out during the winter to log for logging companies to make money enough to buy the livestock and enough horses to aid in the chore of meeting the Homesteading Act requirements. There was little to no machinery to do any of it for you. You did it by hand, blood, sweat and tears. Nothing like nor legally like the "Homesteads" of today. Today's "Homesteaders" are what we call "Hobby Farmers".
Definitely great to see things done real. Like a comparison between Les Stroud and Bear Grylls. One is a real experience, and one is a product for views.
I love what you and Brooke do. I’m not off grid, but if something happened to the grid, my husband and I could survive thanks to channels like yours giving ideas on how to do this. If I were younger I would live off grid. I didn’t even know all this when I was young.
Thanks for the video, Dave. I have always appreciated your and Brooke’s openness and transparency. I think people can relate to that very well. I hope the new year is going well for all of you. Be safe and blessed.
I want to thank you so much for all of this information and everything you do on your youtube channel. I will be getting out of high school in a couple of years and my true passion is mountaineering, and I've been trying to find a way for me to be able to do that. Climbing big mountains like Denali and the Himalayas takes thousands upon thousands of dollars and sometimes months, and the path I see as me being able to do that is to life off grid and self sufficient, grow my own food, build my own cabin, etc, and have the time and money to climb. I don't have to be rich or get sponsorships. I can get right out of highschool, get a job working as an arborist, and be able to do what I want to do. Thank you so much. You are helping me get on my way to my two goals in life: self sufficiency and the summit of Denali.
Hey, just watched the main video and then this one. I totally understand what you meant by the video title and don't understand why people don't get what you're trying to say. You're an inspiration doing things a traditional and humble way.
You and your wife are true blue to the core. I respect the life you've carved out for yourselves and I admire your desire to help others figure out how to achieve the same goals. I'm an oldie in a comfy home and content as a bug in a rug but I *love* watching your channels just for the fun of it. You give us all a bit of hope for the future. Thanks. 🙂
Keep it up Dave, you’ve never come across as anything other than open and honest about what you do, and that this is “your way” not that it’s the only way or the right way. I appreciate that.
I bought a cabin and 25 acres in the Ozarks about 3 years ago that has power, water and septic and ... I am NOT offended by this video! As a matter of fact, after watching your channel, it's made me want to build my own dry cabin further back on the property where it is mostly timber and undeveloped. And it looks like we are subscribed to all the same channels, I guess great minds think alike! 🏁
I'm new, only found you by trawling through YT and coming across this video. Which actually has summed up my experience with trying to find info about living offgrid. It's so hard trying to find videos that answer the actual issues, and aren't mostly set up shots of preplanned scenes. There's a few out there though that I've found, which are pretty good. You've made that list because the raw reality of offgrid living is exactly what I need to know. Your definition of offgrid is one I subscribe to. So thank you, it was a refreshing video to come across and one that's led me to subscribe.
Thank you so much for making these videos!!!
I have noticed certain channels with very fancy items( trucks, houses, etc) and i have felt in a sense hopeless in ever going off grid as i don’t have that kind of money.
After watching this video, i have more hope on how to really get an off grid property and start building a better life. Thank you for sharing your experience and how it worked for you and for being transparent!
That is EXACTLY what I'm talking about. I appreciate your comment, and I'm going to pin it to the top of the comments.
watch Kyles Cabin on yt
Just found your channel randomly in my feed. Probably from watching “my self reliance” channel👍 I’m approaching fifty years old, lived in the mountains of Northern California for a fair amount of my life except for college, then L.A., Sacramento, and San Francisco, but am currently back in the woods. People like you and your wife are truly exceptional in this day no age where nobody wants to work for anything. Your hard work while simultaneously never taking out loans and then selling your previous homesteads to enable you to save more and ultimately work your butt off more is truly inspiring👍. Additionally, teaching your children that hard work, the ability to learn and not be afraid of failure, will be life lessons that they carry forever and will lead them to success as well. Wish there were more people in the world like you and your wife. Tru;y inspiring! I’m a fan and I subscribed😉. Now I might get in trouble with the wife as I go down the wormhole of your videos and spend way too much time admiring your handiwork🤔 I’m joking, she’ll let it slide as she wishes I was more confident to do the wonderful things you’re doing👍
I felt similarly. I needed the previous video haha.
This guy did the real thing and worked on a show, he knows the difference between work and production
I'm a city dweller (Berlin, Germany) and even I smell BS when people with high tech equipment and fancy cars try to tell me on RUclips that they're living the real off grid life. I rather watch people like you and your wife, because I know you are REAL and I hope you keep it that way.
Hej I agree with you they know what they are doing, they talk about what is required, what you need and so on take care.
well, some actually have the means and dollars to start off with a lot of equipment, but of couse if they do they should say so, even if it is getting stuff trough sponsoring
@@jomme78 I agree, but most don't, unfortunately.
Well said!
Salty Winchester......Dave and Brooke's channels are brilliant. I love them. If you want to watch another one - try "My Self Reliance" he's in northern Ontario, Canada...another brilliant guy - Cheers.
I read the entire Ryan’s ruclips.net/user/postUgkxGqOCINHE0Z0E5gxzSdNi9NWGugRY5Hm2 Plans and was able to make a shed plan. Using Ryan’s Shed Plans alone, the shed itself is great. Where I wish I knew more is with respect to ground preparation and foundations. Maybe that's beyond the scope of Ryan’s Shed Plans.
I checked this out and his page is full of people making weird contrived comments. This seems like the only review of his that’s honest lmao.
I really can't see how anyone would see this guy as "knocking" anybody. He's truly humble.
You're right.
It seems we live in the times of the victim, the bible mentions how in the end times people will be offended at the slightest thing. We must be wiser than the serpent in these times.
I agree 100%. Would really enjoy sitting down and buying him a beer. Bet he'd be a gas to visit with.
Sometimes, it's those who wouldn't dare make a first step, so they keep busy creating faults about those they admire.
@@zrkn1 -- Wiser than the serpent or similar ilk like the woke-zombie cult of infinite virtue and meaningless pandering...
I mean, we are in a Clown Show Dumpster Fire - someone should make a series or character of it ... could be tricky, even the Babylon Bee is having issues coming up with "unbelievable, nuanced and crazy stories", these days!
End The Fed!
Dave, keep in mind, you can't please all the people, all the time. Some people think camping is throwing their sleeping bag on the ground and watching the stars at night. Others believe camping is going to the Holiday Inn and opening the windows.
I don't watch your channel and say, "Wow! Now that's the way to do it." I watch your channel - and others - to get ideas and gain insight into how I want to do something. Just keep doing what you're doing, buddy, and you'll have me as a faithful follower for the duration....
Thanks Carl
for sure. Have faith in your audience
Dave, your off grid is a lie” video is probably one of the most important ones for the “off grid” / homestead/ tiny homes community. My partner and I live in a tiny home and we like to watch this type of content for ideas for improvement or troubleshooting. While we enjoy a lot of the videos, it can be quite discouraging seeing all these people who you know started with quite a lot - like you said, they sold their hundreds of thousands of dollar house to go “off grid”, or they have a work from home corporate job. Which is great for them and no shade, but I’m glad you could show us from a typical working persons’ perspective of how you and Brooke made your life together.
Good for you!
We built an earthbag house that we've lived in it since 2015. I love every innovative thing that I see people doing.
I didn't find Buahradicals video to be calling out anyone for being right, or wrong, or anything else.
There is definitely a difference between the opinions of folks who are doing it versus the spectators.
I also agree that I've seen videos where people have brand new equipment, new private sawmills, and semi trucks full of logs and such.
Especially when they don't seem very familiar with their equipment I always think, "yeah, the average person can no way do that."
If you ever get hateful messages or reviews or whatever, don't worry about them. They say more about the people that left them than they do about you.
Cheers!
Almost a million subs and you take the time to explain yourself in a calm and appropriate manner. Bravo sir.
Yup..
And he doesn't ask for "likes" or subscriptions.
@@patgenier1965 Corporals Corner always begging for likes and subs in all of his videos 😂 He also tells you to download the youtube app when it is not needed to watch videos here at youtube.
@@patgenier1965 - asking for anything is fine. Begging for subs or patreons is another thing, entirely.
Making it known is fine. Begging is not - though to each his or her own. Void where prohibited. Your mileage and Off Grid lifestyle will vary!
@@kingrafa3938 - there are different features with the "app" or "apps" ... on desktop, mobile and what not - just because it is not "needed", does not mean people would hate or dislike those features.
It is a rare quality in normal times. We are not living in normal times.
Centralized system and planners are the excuse for petty and not-so-petty tyrants.
Off Grid Living, for Life!
End The Fed! End private centralized banks*, everywhere!
* - Void where prohibited. Their level of tyranny will vary. End the BIS.
I'm glad you made this video. Husband and I are disabled vets who want to go off grid and go back to the basics. We've always lived in the city or rurally. We have a mortgage and are really trying to be free from bills and live free. This video helped me. I was so discouraged when I saw folk with all the off grid supplies and like they had millions of dollars. I can't afford their type of off grid. I like yours and (my self reliance). Y'all really encourage me.....love Michigan
Good luck to both of you and thanks for your service.
I like the mobile aspect but I also like to be anchored to land
@egyptiandaughter2818 I say go for it if you have the energy to make it happen. Good things happen when you ask the universe for help. When I built my first off grid cabin I was about chest high on the first floor and didn't look like I was going to make it for winter time. One saturday morning about 12 neighbors showed up unannounced and over the course of two days we got the first floor done, the second floor done and the rafters up. It was like a regular old barn raising! I look back at it now and realize that there are a ton of good people in this world. Those 12 people were my salvation. Keep the faith and you will succeed if you put your minds to it. Good luck.
That was a great video. Love your straight up honesty.
Hope you make it! Cutting most bills will be awesome. You'll still need cash for tools, clothes, maintenance stuff, even in the best cases. I am a little dismayed how much that can add up to, but I guess we do as well as we can!
Awww....you definitely can't please everyone. People will always complain, poke fun, etc. Your videos, and Brooke's videos are awesome, so entertaining and I look forward to watching them. One of my favorites is the video you did where you paint your car black for $20. Don't apologize for the things you say. It's obvious that you're not snobbish, etc. You do not give off an air of arrogance. Your intent is pure and honest. Please do not change!
Yep! People are something lol
I love that video to in my opinion its no him painting his car i see it as one of the best motivational speeches iv heard
My grandparents were "off-grid" over in Ogemaw Co, MI until 1950 (Not by choice). There was a lot about their farm that I experienced as a kid in the 1960s that I really didn't understand until I was older and then understood what living without electricity meant. Keep it coming as I found your discussion a breath of fresh air on the subject.
I stumbled on your channel a few days ago. I really enjoy seeing you work towards your dream. I am nearly 70 and define off grid as being away from the dog eat dog world. You really see this when you retire, and the world whirls on around you. I have zero debt, I have sufficient retirement income for basic needs, I am free to do what I want with my days, and I no longer have to kiss any butt or put up with any you know what. I do however live in a small house with a small garden and a small cat in a "small" city-where I can walk to most things I need. When I went off-grid I stopped watching TV and going to movies, stopped constantly eating out, stopped buying the newest, latest, best things. My 3 year old phone (thanks to 5G) is mostly on "do not disturb" or just turned off. I no longer want to be first-I am happy with being next. I think most channels miss the one most important aspect of living off grid-The living part. At some point your cabin and land improvements will be done. Then what? Lets see more fishing, hiking, camping, and maybe yes (the horror) hunting in the videos.
You don’t have to explain yourself Dave! Your long term subscribers know what you and Brooke are doing. You’ve always made it very clear! You didn’t stutter! Off grid living means just what you said it is- no mainstream utility hookups, etc. You’re living debt free and depend on yourselves. Nothing wrong with that.
Exactly! Plus I have never watched their videos but going on the comments they never claim to live off the grid. While using a smart phone or computer to record videos, also to live off the grid means you make all your own clothes and everything! My definition would be not needing money to buy anything at all and making your own clothes, hunting, cooking, make you own shelter and of course no smart phones or computers
@@BlazeBuds
Your off-grid defination is very austere. I don't think anyone lives like that. If they do, according to your definition, we'd never know bcos they'd have nothing to record it on , except maybe written /drawn on tree bark or the such like. Dave does a great job of explaining , in BOTH videos , what the meaning of today's "off-grid living" is really about. My take away from these to videos from Dave is him answering questions put him by OTHERS who want to understand the discrepancies creeping into this area that is becoming very popular and lucrative in this day and age. If you can't sit down and listen to Dave aka Bush Radical, without getting yourself all uptight & twisted then you really need a chill pill. This guy and his lovely wife Brooke aka Girl in the Woods are so down to earth , kind, and pleasant to listen to, not a mean nor arrogant bone in their bodies. Always encouraging and sharing helpful hints from their experiences.
Just real down to earth folks , loving life and sharing it as they go. If Dave's videos answering the questions put to him about those Hollywood off-grid YT creators offend you, DONT ATTACK HIM, go talk to the face you see in the mirror, that's the one with the problem. 🇦🇺🤗💞🙏✌️👍👏
Key- Word- ‘today’s ‘
Agreed, Debra Saints! There is no need to explain on Dave or Brooke's part. They are simply "doing them" and the authenticity of that is remarkable in a culture so obsessed with doing the popular/cool/most consumeristic thing.
Exactly Debra: Always appreciate your videos. I’ve learned over the years that when you do something well and it’s publicized, you get haters. Stop giving them a voice, like Debra said, us long term subscribers know you’re legit. Keep up the awesome videos!
The word is "authentic." Sure, there are tons of channels that go through the motions but their solution involves money, contractors or sponsorships. What you and Brooke have offered the audience is an authentic example of how it can be done...not just to attract sponsors or create another iteration of the Kilchers. This topic is real and in focus, for many people, as life in the 'burbs or city centers becomes untenable. Thanks for occupying your space with authenticity.
You and Brooke are some of the most authentic people I watch on RUclips. The ones of us who have been with you from the long haul know where you are coming from. Keep doing you!
your post spoke my mind
Dave & Brooke, I’ve been following you for a few years, since before I became a subscriber. You are indeed some of the most authentic, transparent, and kind-hearted people I “know.” Thanks for sharing your “sweat equity” ideas!! -B
I'm going to make a bold statement here. This has become my favorite RUclips channel. YT is by a long shot, my favorite social media. I follow countless accounts. Sports, fishing, boating, motivation, men's health, etc. This channel is educational in a way that today's world needs to see. Sweat equity, gotta love that. Keep up the excellent work. Best wishes from the swamps of Louisiana! ⚜️🐊
I never could get the cost of a house to pencil out for me during my work career. Either I was too broke to buy or by the time my income had gone up the houses were insanely expensive. I rented, saved and invested and when I retired I found land and built my place with a workshop for cash. So what you're saying Dave makes perfect sense to me. It speaks to your soundness as a person to clarify for those who didn't get the first video.
Dave, in comparison to your channel most everyone out there claiming to live the 'off grid' lifestyle is a poser. Your integrity, honesty and transparency shines through in everything you and Brook do. You inspire us to believe that their are alternatives to a hamster wheel existence to make our lives more meaningful.
The "posers" would not bother me if they were upfront.
I watched this in my basement while my electric furnace kept me warm, thinking, 'I could walk out my front door, walk 150 yards into bush, and film and a non-transparent, "off grid, tiny home build" in the bush' and no-one would know that the bush was financed by mono-crop agriculture, and the build by a sideline crown corporation job. Love the channel, the dream is really to build a 'shack' to have morning coffee in with the MRS. and enjoy nature as a retreat.
Rub a little dirt on your face and act out of breath as you walk up. I can work the digger for you if you can edit out the beeping.
Dave, you keep telling it straight, that's what we keep coming back for.
It's easy for "off gridders" to afford their land and houses when they're on cable and getting paid for it. What I like about yours and Brooke's channels is that you really make it seem attainable for just the "Average Joe" to try the off-grid experience. What I've watched from both channels is you ARE transparent: you explain your costs, you show how hard it is to get where you're at (never will forget the vid on the well drilling by hand) and you're honest about what tools you use and where you get your supplies. You are both inspirational.
The thing that I always appreciated was the equipment list Brooke would have in her videos and the way you would talk about how you would use scrap materials in your building projects. That's how I realized that I wouldn't need to go to a hardware store for everything because if I trashed something, I wasn't out much in cost. I was learning and saving. Transparency like you said. I'm sorry so many people didn't understand that. Please keep doing what you're both doing, it's so helpful. 🙌🏽
I'm sure I'm not the only subscriber to your & Brooke's content that truly appreciates just how genuine and down to Earth you both are. Could be the biggest motivator to the negativity you're getting is simply jealousy of your joy ... "sweat equity" is paying you dividends that some folks wish could be put on a credit card. We've been designed to get satisfaction out of being creative and productive. Thanks a million for the inspiration, Dave! See you down the road, Brother ... God Bless :)
Thanks Dave! I moved the outhouse a few weeks back and re-orginized my outhouse books. Michigan shipwrecks is on the top of the pile. Thanks Again
You did the right thing. People now days, unfortunately, they like the fake reality shows, and cannot handle/stand the thruth. You just show them the truth about it and how it's really done it. Keep up the great work and God bless you and your family!!!
Yes, I agree...they are fervent supporters of these channels they follow, almost to an obsessive degree...makes me wonder who they are defending...watching someone getting something done or sitting on their couch, wishing to get something done but don't do anything...so, of course, they are going to defend their idealization of what should be done, without really getting it done, without sweat equity...they have to defend the image of what they would like to be or have, though ludicrous with some utubers out there not painting the true reality...
Keep speaking your truth Dave. Eventually, everyone will realize you come from the place of save your money and build what you can afford now without going into debt to the banks which will make you an indebted slave to the evil elite system. The most important thing with regards to finance is to keep more money in your pocket then, you give away via buying things you do not actually need. It's like a pin ball game...build up your game points and try not to lose those points (aka lose your money).
Well said.
I love the point you’re making. Years ago I saw youtube “prepper” who did this kinda stuff but he’d use a huge backhoe to dig his gardens and had an above ground pool. I can see the point of using a machine to do something, but a pool is a total waste of resources.
Hi !
If I wanted to make a major life change , the decision can't be made without serious , in depth research . As a note taker with an "engineer" mindset , if there isn't a clear , reasonable , do-able process to get me from where I am , to where I want to be , the project is dead in the water . Watching Brooke tackle a task is "real life" ! She films the good , the bad and the ugly...there is no fluff . If I'm willing to go through the same task , knowing the reality it demands , the success rate is more sure ! Thank you both for caring about the quality of our chosen paths
and your willingness to make a vital video for our benefit !!!
Be safe , well and YOU !
So true
Love your channel Dave, I’m a 29yo woman, you’ve inspired me to take things into my own hands and put in sweat equity so I’m not a slave to a bank for the next 30years. I built my own bed frame this summer with some free plans I found online. Now I want to build a copy of the black/red cabin you and Brooke did a few years ago! Hopefully this summer I can do that!
I'm building my off grid cabin as the money comes in. I love watching you and girl in the woods. You both are so real and down to earth.
Thanks
Thats the way to truly be off the grid! Make all your own stuff and leave the technology behind. Once you are set up you have no purpose for money, plants can provide medicine and such. Basically living an Amish lifestyle i guess
You are spot on. I have this same beef with content creators in the DIY and woodworking space. I got into DIY thinking I was going to build amazing furniture for $20 and a can of pop, or renovate a kitchen with nothing but lucky deals and the sweat off my brow. Then you find out how much tools cost, the hardware that was omitted in the build, the cost of mistakes, and so on. All of that is left out, and my wife and I have made some financial mistakes finding out the truth of DIY projects. I have found the exact same thing in the off grid space. People will say "I built my homestead for $X" where X is insanely low and you find out later in the video they inherited the land. Well, land isn't free for the rest of us.
I took your video as a reality check and sometimes reality checks are tough for people to hear. But it's good and honest, and I think on balance most of us appreciate it.
Dave I enjoy the content you and your wife puts out. You guys worked your tails off to get where you are. Best part, no sponsors, nothing owed. You dont have to put or advertise a certain product. Thank you for being true.
I’m from Michigan and my husband and I are debt free now. We are saving for a remote piece of property. I stumbled upon you both and appreciate how transparent you are about how easy it can be if you dig in the dirt and make it happen. I have left some other channels that seem to constantly have sponsors and big budgets. Sustainable living doesn’t include several pleasure ride horses. We get what you are saying. Thanks for all your efforts!
We bought 10 acres in mid Michigan look forward to building it up.
I think Dave and Brook are being more honest than most off griders...
@@jenscheibner792 Thanks
I love watching you...I'm an ole lady totally being intertwined by you and your wife.... you're a great teacher...
Right there with you... I'm an ole lady myself & absolutely love Dave & Brooke!!
Me too they are real...hope that remains....
It's really interesting how differently so many people took that first video. I actually really appreciated the first video. This channel has always been so much more relatable to me because it all seems so much realistic or attainable than some of the other channels where people spend enormous amounts of money on stuff.
Hello, I enjoy your videos. You have inspired me over the last couple years to build my own cabin. Debt free, one piece at a time. As they say "Rome wasnt built in a day". Remember you a true inspiration to some people who watch you.
I watched a couple who were living off grid and build a log cabin and the trees came from the land etc. They kept saying it costs them nothing because they had their own garden. I wrote to them and asked them if they pay property tax. He wrote back and said "yes we pay property tax" ........so they were misrepresenting the "it doesn't cost us anything".......I appreciate so much you and Brooke's HONESTY about the whole thing, costs, hardships, possibilities. It isn't anyone's business what you do in your life. I for one am grateful and appreciative that you share part of it with us.
I appreciate your integrity Dave. Thanks to you and Brooke for your transparency and genuineness!
Thanks for this video. I used to watch a variety of shows about building off grid homes and finally stopped because they were unrealistic for the average person. I have the same issue with tiny homes. I thought the original idea for that concept was for the average person to be able to afford a house without huge debt. Then the homes started costing $50,000 and alot higher and that didn't include the cost of land. I enjoy watching both you and Brooke do what you do. Take care.
quite a hundred K for a tiny house? insane.
It's your (and your wife's) transparency that had me subscribe to your channel. I've always enjoyed all of your content and continue to do so. Keep up the fantastic work.
Love your transparency and the use of the term “micro systems “. Over the years I’ve seen many couples attempt building the self sufficient lifestyle. Most did not stay with it and/or didn’t stay together. The hard work, creativity and willingness to learn isn’t for most. Kudos to you for putting everything out front. Finding a property that isn’t zoned to hamper what you’ve been able to do is also a major part of creating a home.
I’ve been following you and Brooke for over a year and one thing I’ve learned about either one of you, you are, neither judgemental, arrogant, or know it all people. You share your love of raw land, your ability to build these beautiful cabins that could be used as an off grid property and then you give all kinds of advice on how to be successful. Keep doing what you’re doing, kudos to both of you and your channels!!
Dave! Love your channel! Thanks for putting out the content you share. Been really inspiring!
I appreciate that!
Hi Dave I’m from UK and followed both yours and Brooke’s channels for a while. I understand your logic regarding what you consider “off grid ‘’ To me the Microsystems is a great concept to give people an insight into what they would have to negotiate to even begin off grid lifestyle.
Love your channels and your work ethic. You also have fun doing what you enjoy most which brings joy to a lot of people. Wising you a great year ahead
I totally understood that you were just telling your story. Man sometimes the internet can be toxic place. Don't let it bring you down.
I'm old. OLD. I was blessed to grow up poor and it gave me skills that enrich my life daily. I'm on a fixed income and doing great even though it's a small income. I see other seniors around me with larger incomes who struggle daily because they don't have the skills growing up off grid taught me. They just can't manage their "needs". You and Brook teach me something every video. Loved y'all on Alone! The only thing that disgruntles me is we don't have any birch trees here and I want to try birch bark tinder. Lol
I have as many birch trees as tall pines! I'm lucky!
I was Living in Canada many years birch wood 🪵🪓 is really nice wood to heat for a Long time .
I watch you and your wife periodically. I’m 55, currently on my own and I have been thinking about off grid as an option for the very reasons you talk about. I wish that lifestyle had been on my radar when I was younger. I tried to go the traditional way and it never really worked for me. Now I’m getting older and have absolutely nothing to show except crappy credit. If I get to retire before I’m 70 I’ll count myself lucky. I do have a few very important things. Willingness to learn, good health and I’m not afraid of a little hard work. Off grid could be an option for me to cut expenses so that I can retire.
Good luck with your journey to go off grid. I’m 61 now and we went off grid last year. Admittedly we had already renovated our country house before deciding to go fully off grid. We will never ever regret the decision. Some of the hardest work I have had to do in my life but certainly the most rewarding. My wife and I are both city slickers for want of a better description and are complete amateurs as far as farming is concerned but we can learn and there is a wealth of information out there covering every topic you need to learn about. There is nothing better than knowing in the event of most disasters you can survive because you have your own utilities set up. Power, water, sewage, food and shelter. 😊 and as a bonus off the beaten path as well.
cheryl..i do wish you the best..hoping you can save and learn to go off grid..but it will take more than a "little" hard work.
I was almost in the same boat. I looked and looked. Found a kinda swampy fully wooded lot in a once thriving now almost deserted resort spot really desolate and really cheap. Cleared out a spot to hide my car and lived there when the weather was good (not winter weather). Paid cash. 1-1/2 hour drive to work. I saved my money, looked and looked and looked some more and found a near dilapidated but sturdy shack in another resort community for $13,000 paid cash for that and am slowly fixing it up. But this was a 2-1/2 hour commute from work so I quit the freaking job and found something closer to my new paid off abode. The new place is 300 square feet, I don’t have it connected to electric, has a hand pump outside and a path to the bath. It’s not perfect but it’s cheap and I’m slowly fixing it up as I get the cash. I’m in my late 50’s and was just sick of paying bills.
👍
@@croswellianprincess3590 What state?
Love this channel! I think you go above and beyond explaining things from your perspective and I appreciate that. Looking back, the main reason for having what I have today is simply shrinking every single unnecessary expense. Basically boils down to, (regardless of anyone’s income) to put it simply, “living below our means” not diving headfirst into debt to impress people. And like you said, “ putting sweat equity” into building a future, instead of paying off the past, and being a slave to the system. Keep rocking my friend. I look forward to seeing your next project!
Dave I've been a big fan of your channel for a long time. I always wanted to live off grid and it always bugged me when these channels have high dollar equipment and not saying how they got it. My wife, son and myself have been off grid for going on three years. Your channel is one of the very few that show what it's really like. Keep the awesome content coming.
The tractors, backhoes etc etc etc.
Love your logic and vocabulary. Introducing a word such as servitude to such a large audience, or apostle in it's proper context, it helps people, moves the dial a little. You and your wife are part of a bigger collective which gives people such as myself the confidence not only on a homestead, but doing simpler tasks too. You're doing great.
Its your channel that inspired me to go off grid. It was put money down and get a loan for 250k+ to stay in the area of my job or own my tiny dry shed on 2 acres out right. Without you I'd be in debt. I'm happy, heathy, and down over 60 pounds. Thanks Dave and God bless you
Chris Trait (Mike Gees) comment is so true! The TV off grid people have cash - not true off gridders. They have ATVs, 4x4s, high power generators, and electrical systems that cost thousands. A true off grid person tries to survive with their own sweat & blood.
It's because of how you and Brooke started with sweat equity, limited expenditure, and sound land purchases over years that led me to your channel. Keep it up! We appreciate ya!
Proactively transparent. Well said. There’s a reason Thoreau included the cost of his cabin in Walden.
Thoreau also went up to Emerson's home for his evening meal.
As a person that grew up in rural area, I can confirm that you're the real deal, and I like you and Brooke show the real life. Also, very much common sense in your attitudes and logic (ironically, as they say, common sense is not that common). Thank you for your content!
You and your wife are the most humble, intelligent, hard-working and likable people! Keep making your glorious, radical off-grid and cabin-building videos ❤
Transparency is why I watch you and Brooke. Keep on keepin’ on. Thanks
Dave I think you nailed it. A lot of what people are looking for is the freedom from the everyday barrage of hustle and bustle. You and Brook show people they can have that without breaking the bank. Thanks for the content.
Omg! I love you (and Brooke) so much! It is amazing how easily offended some people can be. It's always been my understanding that people who have nothing to hide have nothing to get up in arms about. I watch other "off grid/homesteading" type channels and learn bits and pieces from many of them (honestly, sometimes I learn what NOT to do), but I believe you and Brooke are the real deal so I have a tendency to gravitate to your channels. And if you have this 'air of superiority', allegedly, then it's probably truly just the confidence of knowing exactly what you're talking about as opposed to someone who blows smoke up people's backsides for LIKES and VIEWS. (was that too radical? lol)
Praise His Holy Name.
You guys are two of the few off grid type channels I am still subscribed to. There’s nothing wrong with getting ahead, but the love of money over the well being of others is at the root of all human problems. RUclips, social media in general, are prime examples and if you try to get in the way of that you find out pretty quickly who is real and who isn’t.
Awesome video, Dave, as usual! So a person can BUY an off-grid lifestyle expensively, or they can MAKE an affordable lifestyle by relying on sweat equity to provide what is needed (water, electricity, sewer)...and that latter option just ends up being off-grid. You and Brook have always been very clear about this. Thanks!
Well said, Thanks
My husband and I immediately liked your channel and your wife’s channel because of how realistic all the work you do is. We appreciate the transparency so we can judge where we are at and what is a possible project for us. I can only imagine how much work goes behind all the content you both offer in your videos- sweating, building, filming, cooking, and editing. I always look forward to your videos. God bless.
Awesome! Thank you!
Thank you being so open and honest about how you did things. So often, we see where people have ended up without hearing about the struggles it took to get to that place. You haven't sugar-coated your journey...with both the good and bad. I, for one, appreciate the honesty. I follow you and Brooke for that very reason. Thank you.
I totally understood what you were saying. I had already unsubscribed from several "fake" off grid channels that had a new truck, tractor, etc. every month. The way you explained it made sense. If you want to live off grid OK. If you want to live off grid until you can afford a better to you home OK. (but to me true off grid is amazingly calming) But to claim to be off grid, when you are not, just to make money is disingenuous.
You and your wife lift people up and encourage them. Very positive content.
You guys have two of the best channels on RUclips.
In these dark times we need all the light we can get.
Thank you.
You and Brooke are the most down to earth awesome people. I think that lots of people that write comments don’t even bother to watch the actual video. They just get a visceral reaction to title and feel compelled to comment. Kind of like how people tell you about a news article by just reading the headline, but if they read the article it’s a totally different take..I’ve been guilty of this😂 But it’s cool everyone has their own style and you can pick and choose what works best for your own off grid project on the tube. You guys really helped me with mine! keep inspiring😄
I appreciate you putting this video out for clarification. I love your philosophy and explanation regarding how doing Offgrid living can help you get ahead. I've been working full time as a software engineer for almost 20 years and even with all that grind I've never felt I could afford a nice home in a setting I would actually want to live in. I don't want to mortgage 30+ years of my life to have a big material responsibility that I had no part in building.
I appreciate your videos Dave and Brooke's too. I just want to live as simply and basically as
possible. That's why I enjoy your videos. Keeping it simple is my goal.
Thank you for keeping all your content basic with no frills!
Glad to see videos used in that cabin you and Brooke built last winter, I love it!
And, I love to watch your videos. Keep it up!
You and Brooke show truth, I watch a ton of off grid,bushcraft, etc channels. Yours and Brooke's are true to life. Keep up the great work.
I have watched your channel for years and these two videos have to be your *MOST IMPORTANT!* We are talking about people's lives here. Going offgrid (I went 7 years ago) is very rough, and people need to know what they are getting into or they can lose everything! It's like exercise equipment marketing. You are over weight and want to improve your health. You see an ad for a new exercise bike and see the results of people losing all their body weight. You end up buying it and get none of the results and get depressed. What you didn't see was these people also got a dietitian, changed their diet, did other activities while using the bike, and had a trainer. Offgrid Living content is like that on some channels and can get people into serious trouble using those channels as realistic experiences when you leave out very material pieces of information.
My father built a beautiful, large, off grid home and he and my mother lived there for years. We had propane for a cook stove, fridge, dryer,and one small heater in the downstairs bathroom. It was heated by two wood stoves, one wasn't used that often. We were able to have a well dug, likely hitting good water not to far down, we had a large water storage tank, we pumped water with a pump and generator. We also had a septic tank. Some might say that's not really off grid. It was a 4&1/2 mile drive in a private dirt and gravel road to get to the property. We had to cut our own firewood, which was ready available on the forty acres. We had to pump water and bring in gas for the generator. We had to maintain the road a year long and there was snow in the winter. We had a International with a small snow plow and a farm tractor. When my father built the house it was wired for 110 and 220, there were a few propane lights and if we ran the generator we could have lights. My dad also kept batteries charged for backup in case of a generator problem. We had to burn or remove all our trash. My mom could run the generator to run the washing machine. We had everything, it was about a 45 minute drive to a small town were they got their mail and could groceries shop at a small store. Another 30 minutes drive from that town was a larger town with pretty much everything you needed. The house set just off the top of a mountain and there was a beautiful view of the Sonora Pass area of the Sierra Nevada mountains, a view to die for. It did coast a lot for my dad to build such a home off grid, but it was always his dream to live that way. Years before he bought that property he told me one day as he a I drove the road across the canyon from it that one day he was going to build a place on top of that mountain, and as look at it he did. After my father passed away my mother didn't want to live there alone, so she bought a small mobile home near were my sister and I lived. We kept the house on the mountain for many years after that and it was I who took on the reasonable for maintaining it. You always had to plan ahead for winter, propane tank had to be filled, generator need checked over, gas barrel had to be filled, water pump checked out. The there is summer, making sure things are clear and clean around the house, a fire break in case of forest fire. Cutting And splitting wood for winter. It's a lot of work living off grid even when you have things like propane, wells, and septic tanks...it all has to be maintained year round. Plus there's your road, grading and sometimes having to bring in gravel. However, I wish we would of not sold it so my mother could have the income from it to live out her life. I miss it so much, so do my children. Maybe one day again I can live that way. I love the Sierra Nevada mountains 🌲🏞️❣️
All the criticisms of your first "Off Grid Living is a Lie" video reminds me of that old Ricky Nelson song "Garden Party." You can't please everyone so you have to p[lease yourself. Keep doing what you're doing. You and Brooke are inspirations to those folks who want to be radical. I enjoy watching how y'all have built a good life that makes you happy. God bless.
Thanks
I love this video. The lack of transparency in "off-grid" channels drives me nuts. A very popular 20something "off grid" RUclipsr has slowly been exposed for not truly living like they were portraying, but instead it was a part-time property on their parents' land. I love the micro-system idea, as I believe that is more realistic and attainable. You and Brooke are awesome, educational, and uplifting.
Is that Isabel Paige? So many of them are completely fake. It's about making money exploiting people for views.
Good for you, addressing the issues professionally and calmly. Most of homesteading is also addressing problems calmly and professionally. Thanks for both videos.
You are correct. Alot of times,you se people doing the work but they have been afforded unrealistic " help" by sponsorship,crowd funding; etc. They market their product, which is views. You are most definitely a sweat equity creator. My family appreciates the honesty. Keep up the quality work.
Thank you for explaining what didn’t need to be explained for those of us who have followed you or Brooke. You are the least-judgmental, most-generous/sharing couple I have encountered on RUclips. I don’t own any property at all; about a year from now, we will (Lord willing) pay off our mortage, and own one property in a small town north of Pittsburgh. But I spend time in the woods (mostly hammock-camping, 15-30 nights annually, which I didn’t begin until I was sixty, and am 68 now), so I always enjoy everything you and Brooke share with us about the outdoors, and about ANY way to enjoy them. Thanks so much; may God bless you both.
When I started thinking about building an off grid getaway place I discovered yours and Brooke's channels, and you both inspired me more than any other channels on similar topics. I have had to do things on a shoestring budget, but you both helped me to see that it could be done. I have my little off grid cabin in NZ now ( still a work in progress) and i want to say I really appreciate the content you have made. It still inspires me with fresh ideas. Thank you!
Tony you and Holly have done an amazing job. God bless you both
Hey Dave, we have been subs of you and Brooke for almost 3 years. I have always enjoyed everything y’all do especially the off grid cabins and building projects. If people would just slow down and put a little thought into what they’re watching, they may get a little bit of perspective of the different types of individuals doing these things. I too like transparency. I have no issue with the individual that has $1 million bank account buying something out in the woods and building a cabin. But they shouldn’t portray them barely scraping by to get it done with Equipment nobody else can afford. And I enjoy the way you can show young people There is an alternative way but with that comes hard work. You’re always crystal clear and that is much appreciated. I grew up in the upper peninsula. I have always loved it up there been back a few times to visit family and I finally ended up buying 36 acres with a small rundown cabin on it at the end of October. My wife and I basically want to have a place we can spend time enjoying the area. We got a bit of a deal on it because it appeared to be someone else’s broken dreams. Have a little bit of work to do with a small budget and lots of elbow grease. You just keep doing what you’re doing, we always enjoy it. And be blessed.
Don't sweat the haters and trolls, man. Your previous video (while the title did lean on the click bait side) didn't come off as you knocking other channels or other off grid living styles. I really appreciate how transparent you try to be with your audience on what someone can expect when trying to get into this lifestyle. Keep up the great work and know I'll be looking forward to the next video!
Just caught up, Dave.Your previous vid explained how you guys came to live off-grid.Totally clear & not arrogant at all, damn hard work & resourcefulness.Many channels, not all, have clarity & explain their timeout from corporate as a hobby & I respect that clarity.
Big respect to you from UK
Thanks
You've earned another subscriber because of YOUR honesty and transparency. How refreshing, and thank you for that. I watch both types of channels, but the one I watch with the fancy stuff actually started out dirt poor, raised in a shack, an actual shack, in Mississippi. They're older and work really hard for older folks. The others are low tech and low income. I only watch 1 fancy homestead channel, but again, their origin isn't even close to fancy.
Dave, thanks for your great channel! You and Brooke are two of my absolute favs! Please ignore the haters... some people are so unhappy with their own lives that they are just looking for something to gritch about!!! You two are so relatable and encouraging, and I personally think you are wonderful!! Thanks again!!! Blessings to you both!
Love your videos, and especially appreciate you sharing your experiences of how to live unbeholden to the traditional costs of home owning.
Another thing I really dig about you and Brooke is that you don't buy into the consumerism game. I think that's a big difference between you and these other channels you're talking about. Honestly, it makes your channel so much more relaxing to watch. I think consumerism is the death of our culture and planet. If you're constantly focused on consumerism, you miss so many opportunities for freedom and creativity. It makes me sad some of these channels that started out with more of a frugal, build it ourselves lifestyle but now because they've got all this income coming in through youtube, etc, they are right back to consuming- Simple Living Alaska comes to mind- and they need ALL the toys and products to live their life. Part of the deal with being "off grid" is that you're less reliant on what the rest of the culture deems necessary to life. It's simpler for a reason. Some of these other channels are not doing off grid as you say, but instead are just living rural.
I didn't see the video you were referring to, but I agree 💯 with you. You did a great job of explaining where your coming from. Realistic expectations are important when setting out to achieve your dream. Thanks for your informational videos and for taking us along for the ride!
There's no way anyone who has watched your videos extensively could question your views and experience on this subject. You run possibly the most honest, authentic channel on RUclips, please keep it up.
I think the allure of off-grid living speaks to a bigger need of people in our modern world: how to live deliberately. Out of that deliberateness comes happiness. It seems to me, watching you and Brooke, that you are always busy and at work on building something new. (Building is not the means to an end but rather a way of engaging with life...) You build places where you can in theory hang out and relax and be free. But the true freedom seems to come from working on something, making something rather than having someone make it for you. From being creative. And that's what "off grid living" might ultimate mean. Being independent, having the resourcefulness and wherewithal to solve at least most of your problems on your own. It harkens back to some of the writing of Thoreau, like his poem "Independence." Good work, Dave.
I thank both Brook and yourself for the in-depth look at your experiences and approach at the tasks you two do together, as well as alone.
You guys rock!
Hi! I had never been aware of the term or way of living described as “off grid” until one of your videos came up in my feed. I’ve watched a few of your videos and some from other channels. I have concluded that no matter how it is defined, there is real beauty in seeing folks who truly love outdoor-centric life, and the different means by which they power or service that way of life. We are humans, who get cold in winter months and need to warm up, sleep, and eat. I enjoy seeing people build the structures, cook delicious meals, and revel in the unpopulated outdoors. I think there is a viable market for people who would like to experience this way of life for a week or a weekend! Cheers!
I only saw your video yesterday and it was the first one I had seen.
I thought it was an amazing story of how you had built a life avoiding all the pitfalls of modern living.
I think that it would still be possible to do what you did these days, but the amount of work required would intimidate a many and I am not sure everyone would have the confidence to push ahead with their plans, especially as you say, when there are so many experts out there to overcomplicate things.
I know that whatever I do, I have to do myself because I just don't have the cash to buy the fancy equipment and employ others.
What I really took home from your post was that you and your wife have been a team with a common goal and view of the world which is so important, I think that cracks would form in many relationships would start to show.
Many thanks for sharing your story.
I was born and raised 'off-grid' so were my parents and grandparents and so on and so on. My grandparents and great- grandparents were granted land in the early 1800s under the Homestead Act of the early to mid 1800s were you legally applied for free land that you agreed to clear 2-3 acres per year, build a livable home, dig a well that would provide enough water for you, your family and your livestock, fence off a portion of the land with barbed wire, raise enough livestock to support yourself and family, have a garden that was sufficient enough for your family and to grow enough grain to meet your needs and to feed your livestock. All of this was recorded every year. If you didn't meet all of these requirements the Government took the land back and you had to vacate it, legally. Everything you bought was purchased with cash. The men often hired out during the winter to log for logging companies to make money enough to buy the livestock and enough horses to aid in the chore of meeting the Homesteading Act requirements. There was little to no machinery to do any of it for you. You did it by hand, blood, sweat and tears. Nothing like nor legally like the "Homesteads" of today. Today's "Homesteaders" are what we call "Hobby Farmers".
@Robert Rocca -"making a living from their upload videos" and city job. 😊
And in our area- they’re at Costco every day and clogging up our small town streets . 😅
@@sunnyday7843 😂😂😂😂 yepers
Definitely great to see things done real. Like a comparison between Les Stroud and Bear Grylls. One is a real experience, and one is a product for views.
I love what you and Brooke do. I’m not off grid, but if something happened to the grid, my husband and I could survive thanks to channels like yours giving ideas on how to do this. If I were younger I would live off grid. I didn’t even know all this when I was young.
Thanks for the video, Dave. I have always appreciated your and Brooke’s openness and transparency. I think people can relate to that very well. I hope the new year is going well for all of you. Be safe and blessed.
I want to thank you so much for all of this information and everything you do on your youtube channel. I will be getting out of high school in a couple of years and my true passion is mountaineering, and I've been trying to find a way for me to be able to do that. Climbing big mountains like Denali and the Himalayas takes thousands upon thousands of dollars and sometimes months, and the path I see as me being able to do that is to life off grid and self sufficient, grow my own food, build my own cabin, etc, and have the time and money to climb. I don't have to be rich or get sponsorships. I can get right out of highschool, get a job working as an arborist, and be able to do what I want to do.
Thank you so much. You are helping me get on my way to my two goals in life: self sufficiency and the summit of Denali.
Hey, just watched the main video and then this one. I totally understand what you meant by the video title and don't understand why people don't get what you're trying to say. You're an inspiration doing things a traditional and humble way.
You and your wife are true blue to the core. I respect the life you've carved out for yourselves and I admire your desire to help others figure out how to achieve the same goals. I'm an oldie in a comfy home and content as a bug in a rug but I *love* watching your channels just for the fun of it. You give us all a bit of hope for the future. Thanks. 🙂
Keep it up Dave, you’ve never come across as anything other than open and honest about what you do, and that this is “your way” not that it’s the only way or the right way. I appreciate that.
I love you and Brooke.Thanks for sharing your experience.I think it's wonderful just to have common sense at life. God bless you and your family.
I bought a cabin and 25 acres in the Ozarks about 3 years ago that has power, water and septic and ... I am NOT offended by this video! As a matter of fact, after watching your channel, it's made me want to build my own dry cabin further back on the property where it is mostly timber and undeveloped. And it looks like we are subscribed to all the same channels, I guess great minds think alike! 🏁
I'm new, only found you by trawling through YT and coming across this video. Which actually has summed up my experience with trying to find info about living offgrid. It's so hard trying to find videos that answer the actual issues, and aren't mostly set up shots of preplanned scenes.
There's a few out there though that I've found, which are pretty good. You've made that list because the raw reality of offgrid living is exactly what I need to know. Your definition of offgrid is one I subscribe to. So thank you, it was a refreshing video to come across and one that's led me to subscribe.
well said.. I’ve spent a lot of time on yt and it can be difficult to find channels like this.