Zander, feel the love. I am so glad you're clean and still with us!! Congratulations!! You are stronger than you think. By the way, you've helped me, also. I have some serious health issues which have put me in ICU's, once in serious/critical condition, in October. I almost died. But my point is this: while spending 8, 10 and 12 days in the hospital, I took my mind off of my illnesses by watching videos by you and other you tubers. It really helps, even now. So, thank you, Zander. You cry if you need to. Let those feelings out. Spending you hugs. Stay safe and well! 🦋Janet English 🐞
Congratulations on the year of sobriety. Your content is inspiring and a joy to watch. Keep up the great work and I wish you nothing but the best. Cheers!
Congratulations on your sobriety Xander! A friend of mine showed me some of your videos and I just think you’re awesome so now we both watch 👌 Your outlook and perseverance with pretty much everything in life is admirable to say the very least ❤️ don’t ever stop being your crazy Canadian self! Much love and respect xoxo P.S Would love to swap seasons!! Australia has just started Summer 🥵
@@XanderBudnick God bless you! I have been so sick the past two years with what seems to be Lupus. I used to be active and an outdoorsman. Now I am stuck trying to stay out of the sun and with low energy. Your videos help so much to relax on painful days. We all struggle with something but overcoming and fighting to the end is worth the journey. Glad to hear your accomplishments.
Amazing stuff, Xander. I have 8 years alcohol free and I’m telling you that things keep getting better. AND I’m so psyched you felt courageous enough to be vulnerable like you were in this vid. Feel it, man! That presence is what it’s all about. Big time congrats. Be kind to yourself and one day at a time.
Dear Xander and followers, today I have been clean and sober for 32 days. You are my best inspiration. I thank God for you. I turn 68 on January 31st. I look forward to living my best days ahead. I love this episode so much. I cried with you. Wishing you all happiness and peace and strength. Jan
I know this is an old video and now you are three years into your sobriety but you have showed that it is totally possible to overcome addiction and live a clean, honest and healthy life and be productive and successful! So glad to support your channel!
My parents put me on Adderall when I was about 12 years old. By the time I was 22 I was out of control addicted to it and weed. I was about to have a heart attack from the Adderall, pretty shocked I didn't. Now I'm about to be 24 and I've been fully sober for 479 days. Just can't believe it and how much better life has been. I enjoy watching your video because you're sober!
It takes guts to (be)come clean and show your emotions like that, Xander. Much respect for what you went through and what you accomplished through your endurance. I enjoy your videos immensely and look forward to seeing more. I feel honoured to be part of your journey and adventures!
I just congratulated you yesterday after watching your 2 year anniversary. You should be be so proud of what you have accomplished. Life is beautiful my friend, especially when you are truly participating in it. Hope you are loving every minute!
I know I'm late to the party, but I'm still in that hole Xander, and no one has inspired me to start digging myself out of it like you have, so thank you. I look forward to feeling real again, and I'll keep you posted. God bless, Xander.
I found your channel right after my sister died and your videos have calmed me and connected with me past a devastating numbness. Your authenticity and vulnerability makes your videos tough hearts and minds. Thank you for your being an inspiring example of courage and persistence. Thank you for making the leap of faith and trusting us viewers on the other side of this black box. You are unique among RUclipsrs and you have won our loyalty with your trust and our smiles with your humor. I have been reading some of the comments and they are consistently encouraging and well wishing. I struggle to comprehend the sum of positive energy that thousands of subscribers hope for you. It is a beautiful phenomenon that you have tapped into. Stay golden.
Respect for putting up a personal side of yourself for the public to see. My best friend is starting the same journey as of a week ago. Planning a hike for some new stimulus, using your videos as inspiration. Keep up the good work!
Hearing wolves in the woods is an incredible experience. It feels like such a privilege. Man, you’ve really found your path and with all you give to these videos, and then sharing it all with us…also feels like a privilege.
am i the only one that gets scared of them attacking u in the night ? that shit will eat u .. even a moose can eat u if its hungery i swear look how huge that thing is.
Congratulations on sobriety, man. It’s an ongoing fight but keep fighting. Your candor showed me that I’m not the only one going through a tough time in life right now and I appreciate your openness and vulnerability. Your videos have been apart of the ‘corner of happiness and calmness’ I have. And I’m sure others can agree, in addition to the fact that your videos are hella entertaining, they also help in ways that no pill can. Thank you, Xander.
Discovered your channel recently and only just found this video. I'm 4 years sober this month and seeing you processing your sobriety here gave me so much strength and reaffirmed how important these decisions are. I cried with you, brother. It's just so life affirming seeing others feel what that freedom and hope feels like. So proud of you. And having seen all of your more recent videos, it's confirmation - you made the best choices of your life. Bless you. I'm in the UK and getting into bushcraft now. I am from the countryside originally (Cheddar, Somerset), so rediscovering in my 40s' what I did in my youth - camping, making fires, fishing, etc. What a beautiful world we have in front of us out in the wilds. Sending you good vibes and gratitude for what you're doing here. Really appreciate you and your channel, Xander. ☺
Thank You for yet another great video. I've gone from drinking 3 bottles of wine a day to just drinking on weekends. But I over do it. This is why I'm here. To get into bushcraft and Kayaking! My weekends would be better spent doing this. I watch one of your videos per night as it relaxes me. Congratulations on being sober bud!
Quitting smoking was the hardest for me. All that anxiety and nervous energy. Really happy for you Xander. I’m a firm believer that we go through these things for a reason and you had to to get to this position. So cool to see someone break through the bs and come out on top.
Bro, I totally loved how you opened up to your viewers! My wife & I we're almost in tears. It reminds me of when singer, Song writer "Joni Mitchell" opened her vulnerability to the world. What you did was so raw & honest. Love your videos bro. Keep bringing it on my man!!!
So much respect to you. Takes a lot of guts to be open and honest like that. You genuinely own it. Amazing content as always. Thank you for all your hard work!
Sincerely, congrats on changing your life around for the better. We all enjoy your new zeal for life and what you have created on your RUclips channel has been real fun to watch. We're looking forward to many more years of Xander's outdoor adventures. And it's okay to admit you are hooked to campfire bacon like the rest of us.
This is an old video, and this guy has been my tv,reality show for the last year and to fine this gem of a video its touching and the tears of happiness and joy and pride for himself is magical bro u inspire me to also quit what im doing and move on strong thanks for the encouragement
Xander congratulations on a year of sobriety. I’ll be at 6 years in March. It took a lot of strength and God’s love for us to do it and to keep doing it. Thank you so much for sharing that. Great content as usual sir. Keep it rolling!
Congratulations Xander! It's not an easy thing to stay sober. It will be something you have to work at for the rest of your life, but it's worth it. Thanks for opening up to us and thanks again for a great trip into the woods of Ontario!
Watching again, nearly a year later, and you're at nearly 500K subscribers. What a testament!! You are, and have been, my favorite RUclipsr for about a year now. And love that you try to get your brother on board too! Keep keeping on, brother.
Really loved the heartfelt monologue, Xander. Though our experiences may not be the same, but your words really spoke to me and I can relate to those raw emotions. Love your videos, they always bring me much needed peace. God bless u mate.
Congratulations on the sobriety! I don't think I have seen such a honest display of real emotion on youtube before, it was very touching. Best of luck!
I'm glad that I've discovered your channel, I've never tried camping, but you don't know how many times your videos calm me when I'm feeling anxious or can't sleep. So happy to see that you're enjoying it as much as we do.
Thank you for bringing us along on the journey, Xander. I am currently in the trenches with some of what you described, but there is no doubt your videos have inspired me and given me hope for my own peace. Blessings to you brother, never change.
Congratulations, Life only gets better! What's great about sobriety is that we get to feel our feelings. I know exactly how you feel. I'll have 7 years on Feb. 15th. Congrats again!
Just so know you are a amazing person and to bet the drugs, alcohol, vapes etc is something to be proud of . Alot of people can't or want do this and make excuses and blame everyone else and the world . I am sure its a hard task to overcome for everyone. My dad died of alcoholism . Cousins were on pills and drinking and doing crime. I can relate somewhat to your journey. I am proud of you ❤ for the strength to get off the drugs etc. 🎉 This will be a fight forever so stay strong and focused, dont listen to the thoughts that deceive you. Love your channel and personality and strength its truly amazing and beautiful to witness ❤️ You will conquer and continue to find yourself as well as happiness and freedom from the past I have no doubt 😊 You are good enough and have so much life ahead of you 🥰 you bring joy and inspiration to others in your journey and your family and RUclips family.❤❤❤
Sincere congratulations on your year of sobriety, and thank you for your authenticity. Not editing out your natural human emotions is a gift to us. ❤ Mother Nature heals and I'm glad you spend time with her. That baked potato rocked, and it's always a treat to find wintergreen berries! Thank you Xander.
So proud of you Xander. I have a son not quite there and I'm hoping by your inspiration, it will bring him to the realization that there is real life and true happines on the other side. You are my hero.
You have huge balls to be able to admit that to everyone. Glad you turned your life around and are still with us to make the great content you do. We watch you over dinner many times a week. Love your great personality, you make us laugh a lot. Thanks!!
Hey! I’m so proud of you for taking such a huge step during such a shitty time. It really goes to show who you are in your soul. Journaling and going on these camping trips has seemed to help you so much. You’re called to nature and you bring me peace just by posting these videos. I hope I can join in on your journey sometime. Congratulations man, keep working towards your goals and dreams.
Wow, takes courage to show those kinds of emotions to the world. Thank you for letting us in on this journey of yours. I know it will encourage others to break the cycle of highs and lows from using, and to find those natural highs from breathing the fresh air of the woods, hearing the crack of new snow underfoot, and listening to wolf calls through the night. If you are ever bringing new friends along on your adventures, I'll be first in line.
Seriously, Congratulations on the year of sobriety. I remember my first year of no drugs, no alcohol. The awesome emotions that came over me when I had that moment when I actually realized it had been a year. This video reminded me of then and also other milestones. 5 years, 10 years, etc. Still seems like yesterday my life was a wreck with those addictions. Not going to lie. Still occasionally have a desire for them but quickly lose them because I'm so far beyond that life. I still haven't given up the smoking in all these years but am actually working on that now. I've cut back a bunch and working toward giving them up completely. Another great video! Nice shelter by the way. Simple multi use shelter which is my favorite kind. You are and will continue to be an inspiration to many. I'm sure you will never fully understand how many are and will be inspired by your videos. But, I'm also sure that you are happy that many are taking something positive away from each of your videos!
I respect you so much, you have no idea. You are one of the most inspiring people I know of, and you showing your feelings and talking the way you talk, wearing your heart on the wrist if you will, just means so much to me. Thank you Xander, I've been watching you for quite some time, and I will never stop. Much love from Norway.
Wow! From watching your RUclips videos, you are such a positive person, I take so much inspiration from you, and to find out, the hell you were going through, shows the person you are today, keep going, and enjoy life. Clive UK
I'm so glad you sussed it and got sober. Much respect. Like your toughness in the bush. Enjoy your nature loving photography too. Martin London England
Congrats on your sobriety - what an effort! I’m now 27 days sober and the hardest thing is learning to live without those dopamine hits. Thanks for all your great videos mate.
Congratulations on the full year of sobriety brother! I too went through almost the same story actually about a year and a half ago, keep doing what you’re doing Xander, as you can see for yourself, things get better :)! Just for today brother.
Xander so proud of your decision to back in life sober & free. I will pray for your continued healing. Thanks for being real & sharing your journey with us. Semper Fi !
Congrats that is a really difficult thing to do. As a psychologist I see what addiction does to people and give you all props in the world. Love your videos and I’m glad you’re in a good place now.
Great job Xander! You earnt & deserve your spot on the happiness scale. Mentally & physically making it, as opposed to taking it. Evident down to the simple act of swinging your feet on a bed of logs. Don't stop, keep it up. Honored to be one of the 270k.
Human moment, man. Human moment. Brave of you to express yourself like this. Completely can relate to your words and situation, you are not alone in the struggle, but you pulled yourself out. Good for you man
12:49 😭 Did so much for me Just seeing you open up I myself battling addictions .. This has been a long year for myself also and we both making it ..Xander your my favorite RUclipsr hands down .. Thank you 🙏🏾❤💯 .. Also watched all 52 videos 😁
Glad you found your inner peace on top of the RUclips success. Your videos are really great at showing the joys in the most simple things in life, which god knows we all need reminding of these days.
It's incredible to see how open you are towards your viewers and how you allow them to witness your moments of vulnerability. You didn't have to share that information, however you chose to do so anyway. Thank you for opening up about it. Loved the video!
This was a great video just happened to see it today... Love your bed great idea. And I want you to know I'm proud of you, I'm a grandma I could be your grandma and I am proud of you for making the decisions that you did going through whatever you had to and the joy that you feel at your accomplishment I'm so glad you shared that. Who knows you're gonna help an awful lot of people get their lives straightened out I just know you are. God's watching over you you are fun to watch and he has got you in the Palm of his hand. Be blessed young man and enjoy your journey and if you ever make it to Portland I got a living room floor you can camp on that's about it. Be blessed Xander thanks for all you do I think your videos are the funnest ones I watch. You're just really good at making it fun. Blessings
Wow Xander thank you for being so vulnerable dude it’s not often you see someone so willing to show emotion. Thank you man. And I think I can speak for us all in saying we’re so freaking proud man.
Much respect brother, for everything you’ve done and been through. Keep up the good work. You’ve given me some things to think about. Love ya camping stuff. I think you could even turn it into a cooking show for campers.
Xander, I have been watching for videos for a few weeks now. Your videos help me find peace in what is a somewhat hectic life. I am inspired and have a great respect for your resolve to get up and go into the unknown. I relate to your journey with alcohol and drugs very much. I am pleased to hear you have found peace from the storm. The way you described the highs and lows woke me up to my own life. I will be making some serious changes, sobriety is calling. Thank you for your videos and for sharing your inner journey as well. You are truly appreciated by myself and your subscribers. Respect!!
I felt some tears coming, and I don't cry easily. I was always thinking "this guy is just living the perfect and easy life", while in fact you went (are going) through quite a lot. My level of respect for you just skyrocketed. Keep it up man! I'm learning a lot from you.
God I wanted to hug you so badly😰 Im 28years old, from Austria and I want to say Thank You!! Because of Dialysis traveling isnt an option for me but maybe theres a kidney for me soon😁 Your videos motivate me to keep going, they are exciting, beautiful, stunning..and so much more as well as you. Please keep going, you are wonderful and definitely my biggest role model😊 Greetings from Austria🏔️🙋🏻♂️
I’m so proud of you for how far you’ve come. Congratulations!!! Have you ever done the Hobo casserole is what we call them. Meat, veggies, potatoes, seasoning, butter or oil wrapped up in tinfoil and cooked on the fire till done. My husband was cub master then scout master to our boys troop for 15 years. We camped one weekend a month year round. Loved the kids. They named me Mother Teresa because I was always there. I heard all their stories. My sons are going to be 36 and 40 this year. I have 5 grandchildren. I wouldn’t trade anything for those days. I’m a disabled 42 year nurse.
Congrats on the year of sobriety. Mustn't have been easy and I have so so much admiration at your strength. Keep going Xander, you're doing an amazing job and you have a family of close of 300k people all over the world rooting for you.
Dude congrats on your year of sobriety!! There’s something so much more intoxicating about being present and in the moment. The wilderness and freedoms it brings is such a rush that cannot be replaced. So happy for you Xander and I appreciate the raw content and just keeping it real with us. Keep it up, this channel is awesome!!!
What a wholesome moment and it's a privilege to be allowed to share it with you via this video. You've done so well to make such a milestone! I genuinely wish you the best hitting the rest of them that are to come! Stay strong bro and keep the content up! ♥️
Congrats on your 1 year anniversary of your sobriety. Wonderful for you and your family. Been watching you for a bit and have seen one video where you spoke of stopping. Good for you. I have 2 sons that I'd love to help quit but it really is up to them. Keep on camping, teaching us about the outdoors and life. Best wishes Xander.
Well done on your accomplishment. I'm sure it was hard work but you did it. Have you ever had any run ins with any wildlife that worried you? I pray for you on your trips to keep you safe. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and travels with us.
Congratz woodsbrother !! What a great inspiration you've become!! Keep on that dirt path and you'll be just fine ! Never forget that we're right here behind you 🥰
I comment very rarely, but now I felt the need to tell you Xander, thank you. Your work is inspiring, relaxing and so restructuring. Bravo and thank you again from a french boy who needs to watches your videos to fall asleep. love you all
Hey man good to be back with the snow videos… congrats on the year of sobriety, its a long way to go but finding things like camping or survival in the wild as a cure for your past problems makes you a real inspiration to many kids and adults who are or have been through the same situation. I've been watching your videos for about 1 year now and I can say that I would like to be able to do half of the things you've done! Keep up with these amazing experiences! we are all waiting for new videos on your channel! Keep up with the good work!
Congratulations on your one year of sobriety. Your content has made this year so much more bearable. It always lightens my spirits when I see an upload. You are having such a positive effect on people. Keep going…
Loved your openness, you should absolutely feel proud of yourself. It's good to just let it all out sometimes, keep fighting the good fight Xander, thanks for this video!
Congratulations on your 1 year of sobriety!! A big step. Found your channel like a month ago and it has easily climbed up to be one of my favorite channels. The way that you're inspiring to live life you're own way and to truly live life. Keep it up and be you, love from Sweden
Wow man, thank you for being so honest! You've just become my favourite You Tuber out there. And congratulations for taking that personal challenge and becoming a better human for it. Take care and be safe out there....
i found your channel a week or so ago, the same time i thought about getting sober for the 6/7th time. funny enough in the first video i watched you mentioned your 3 yrs of sobriety, and i like to think it played a good part in strengthening my want to quit. seeing you talk about it all, abt reaching a year, made ME cry, and i cant even explain how bad i want that for myself. i know it seems silly and sappy to say, but thank you. this was a good, much needed reality check. youve made me rethink not only how i take canadas insane nature for granted but also how nice it would be to say that im sober:)
Hi Xander, I recently found your channel and have been watching your videos since. I find your presentation and perspective refreshing and to be a morale booster. I'd just like to say that when I came across this particular video, your honesty & freedom of emotional expression grabbed my heart & brought me to tears. I'm so proud of your accomplishment and wish you continued success in your journey. My prayers are with you.
Sitting here weeping and overwhelmed with pride and happiness for you Xander!!! Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful story of 1 year of sobriety and freedom from addictions!!! So ,so ,very ,very , happy for you and your family and friends!!! Sending you peace and richest blessings ♥ 🙏 ♥ I absolutely love your channel!!!
Thank you for sharing your story. You have no idea how proud and happy so many are of you. You’re an amazing and inspiring young man. You are so humble and grounded. Please don’t ever change who you are deep inside your soul.❤
Congrats Xander. You are an amazing person. I would have never thought you had a struggle with substance abuse from finding your channel. Makes this even more inspirational. You said you never hit those highs - but think of all the people you are inspiring here. That’s pretty freaking awesome!!! Keep it up man.
Being outdoors when it's wet & cold feels so raw. Just like being out there in the elements. Only real campers can spend a night out in that kind of weather! Great video
i had never sub to your channel but after i seen the emotion and love for what you are doing i had to...hang in there young man and keep doing what your doing,,,,proud of you
I’ve been struggling with smoking weed and I’ve quit a few times only to go back, honestly watching you be so free and happy and one with nature, it gives me a sense of clearness. Thank you Xander, time to stay free and clean! 🙏🏽
Not only is it brave to share your story with the world but it takes a lot of strength to pursue sobriety, I know first hand. Continue staying focused on what brings you happiness and dont forget to smell the roses along the way. You’re an inspiration, and I’m sure you wouldnt have thought strangers wouldve been calling you that 18months ago. Thanks for the beautiful content, stay safe out there Brother.
Xander, I never knew about your struggles with substance abuse. I'm nobody to you, but I am SO PROUD of you! Also man, don't ever be embarrassed at crying! I had a Marine corps gunny grandfather tell me (when I was young) don't ever think crying makes you less of a man. You are simply showing emotion. RIP Grandpa. God bless you Xander!
I really admire and respect that you opened up and had the courage to be vulnerable like that. Congratulations on your 1 year of sobriety my friend. Great film as always. The effort you go into documenting and film your trips is never unnoticed and always appreciated :D
Been watching your vids for about a year. Congrats on this incredible achievement. It's unfortunate that our society is filled/bombarded with endless availability of sources that provide instant gratification/dopamine where we have to do very little to get it. What you're doing is not easy and hence you've successfully brought yourself back to the way it should be, where we actually have to do something that requires effort and energy in order to get the dopamine release. Congrats again, you deserve everything you have because you've worked for it. It's also great to see you reflect and give yourself the acknowledgement and recognition you deserve for all you've done.
Thanks for this video Xander. I’m on my personal journey to complete sobriety. Watching you get emotional, cold alone in the woods, yet laughing shows how proud you are of how far you’ve come this past year and I hope one day I’ll feel the same serenity. Thanks my friend for the motivation
Man I love your sobriety story. I myself am “still dealing with it” , but I find when I can go out camping I don’t need a drink every morning and lunch and after work till I fall asleep. It’s not easy and I’m slowly getting better but no victory is made without a rough road .
You’re killing me Xander. Don’t need to cry first thing in the morning. Congratulations on your year of sobriety!!! Great video as always.
Zander, feel the love. I am so glad you're clean and still with us!! Congratulations!! You are stronger than you think. By the way, you've helped me, also. I have some serious health issues which have put me in ICU's, once in serious/critical condition, in October. I almost died. But my point is this: while spending 8, 10 and 12 days in the hospital, I took my mind off of my illnesses by watching videos by you and other you tubers. It really helps, even now. So, thank you, Zander. You cry if you need to. Let those feelings out. Spending you hugs.
Stay safe and well!
🦋Janet
English 🐞
💪🏻🇺🇸💪🏻🇺🇸💪🏻🇺🇸💪🏻🇺🇸💪🏻🇺🇸
It's the wood smoke. Yeah, that's it. (And that beautiful baked potato)
🎉 congratulations on being sober!! I watch your videos a lot
Dude he was a fukk two feet into the gay porn industry with zero transferable job skills...a year is a milestone. Thanks for taking us with you, bro!
Congratulations on the year of sobriety. Your content is inspiring and a joy to watch. Keep up the great work and I wish you nothing but the best. Cheers!
Thanks my friend, I appreciate it! You weren't suppose to see this video until tomorrow lol :p
Thanks for the special release, I’m always watching 😉… you can’t hide good content! It will be our secret until release date !
Congratulations on your sobriety Xander! A friend of mine showed me some of your videos and I just think you’re awesome so now we both watch 👌
Your outlook and perseverance with pretty much everything in life is admirable to say the very least ❤️ don’t ever stop being your crazy Canadian self! Much love and respect xoxo
P.S Would love to swap seasons!! Australia has just started Summer 🥵
@@XanderBudnick God bless you! I have been so sick the past two years with what seems to be Lupus. I used to be active and an outdoorsman. Now I am stuck trying to stay out of the sun and with low energy. Your videos help so much to relax on painful days. We all struggle with something but overcoming and fighting to the end is worth the journey. Glad to hear your accomplishments.
Amazing stuff, Xander. I have 8 years alcohol free and I’m telling you that things keep getting better. AND I’m so psyched you felt courageous enough to be vulnerable like you were in this vid. Feel it, man! That presence is what it’s all about. Big time congrats. Be kind to yourself and one day at a time.
No alcohol but smoke 😅
@@ygjt76v0----- dude he literally said he quit everything
@@skuterkid... dude he meant.... campfire smoke
Dear Xander and followers, today I have been clean and sober for 32 days. You are my best inspiration. I thank God for you. I turn 68 on January 31st. I look forward to living my best days ahead. I love this episode so much. I cried with you. Wishing you all happiness and peace and strength. Jan
Congrats Jan. Keep the faith. You can do it.
Keep up the good work dude, you're killing it! I believe and I'm praying for you 🙏
I know this is an old video and now you are three years into your sobriety but you have showed that it is totally possible to overcome addiction and live a clean, honest and healthy life and be productive and successful! So glad to support your channel!
My parents put me on Adderall when I was about 12 years old. By the time I was 22 I was out of control addicted to it and weed. I was about to have a heart attack from the Adderall, pretty shocked I didn't. Now I'm about to be 24 and I've been fully sober for 479 days. Just can't believe it and how much better life has been. I enjoy watching your video because you're sober!
It takes guts to (be)come clean and show your emotions like that, Xander. Much respect for what you went through and what you accomplished through your endurance. I enjoy your videos immensely and look forward to seeing more. I feel honoured to be part of your journey and adventures!
I just congratulated you yesterday after watching your 2 year anniversary. You should be be so proud of what you have accomplished. Life is beautiful my friend, especially when you are truly participating in it. Hope you are loving every minute!
I know I'm late to the party, but I'm still in that hole Xander, and no one has inspired me to start digging myself out of it like you have, so thank you. I look forward to feeling real again, and I'll keep you posted. God bless, Xander.
I found your channel right after my sister died and your videos have calmed me and connected with me past a devastating numbness. Your authenticity and vulnerability makes your videos tough hearts and minds. Thank you for your being an inspiring example of courage and persistence. Thank you for making the leap of faith and trusting us viewers on the other side of this black box. You are unique among RUclipsrs and you have won our loyalty with your trust and our smiles with your humor.
I have been reading some of the comments and they are consistently encouraging and well wishing. I struggle to comprehend the sum of positive energy that thousands of subscribers hope for you. It is a beautiful phenomenon that you have tapped into. Stay golden.
Respect for putting up a personal side of yourself for the public to see.
My best friend is starting the same journey as of a week ago. Planning a hike for some new stimulus, using your videos as inspiration.
Keep up the good work!
Hearing wolves in the woods is an incredible experience. It feels like such a privilege. Man, you’ve really found your path and with all you give to these videos, and then sharing it all with us…also feels like a privilege.
am i the only one that gets scared of them attacking u in the night ? that shit will eat u .. even a moose can eat u if its hungery i swear look how huge that thing is.
Congratulations on sobriety, man. It’s an ongoing fight but keep fighting. Your candor showed me that I’m not the only one going through a tough time in life right now and I appreciate your openness and vulnerability. Your videos have been apart of the ‘corner of happiness and calmness’ I have. And I’m sure others can agree, in addition to the fact that your videos are hella entertaining, they also help in ways that no pill can. Thank you, Xander.
Discovered your channel recently and only just found this video. I'm 4 years sober this month and seeing you processing your sobriety here gave me so much strength and reaffirmed how important these decisions are. I cried with you, brother. It's just so life affirming seeing others feel what that freedom and hope feels like. So proud of you. And having seen all of your more recent videos, it's confirmation - you made the best choices of your life. Bless you. I'm in the UK and getting into bushcraft now. I am from the countryside originally (Cheddar, Somerset), so rediscovering in my 40s' what I did in my youth - camping, making fires, fishing, etc. What a beautiful world we have in front of us out in the wilds. Sending you good vibes and gratitude for what you're doing here. Really appreciate you and your channel, Xander. ☺
Thank You for yet another great video. I've gone from drinking 3 bottles of wine a day to just drinking on weekends. But I over do it. This is why I'm here. To get into bushcraft and Kayaking! My weekends would be better spent doing this. I watch one of your videos per night as it relaxes me. Congratulations on being sober bud!
Quitting smoking was the hardest for me. All that anxiety and nervous energy. Really happy for you Xander. I’m a firm believer that we go through these things for a reason and you had to to get to this position. So cool to see someone break through the bs and come out on top.
Bro, I totally loved how you opened up to your viewers! My wife & I we're almost in tears.
It reminds me of when singer, Song writer "Joni Mitchell" opened her vulnerability to the world.
What you did was so raw & honest. Love your videos bro. Keep bringing it on my man!!!
So much respect to you. Takes a lot of guts to be open and honest like that. You genuinely own it. Amazing content as always. Thank you for all your hard work!
Sincerely, congrats on changing your life around for the better. We all enjoy your new zeal for life and what you have created on your RUclips channel has been real fun to watch. We're looking forward to many more years of Xander's outdoor adventures. And it's okay to admit you are hooked to campfire bacon like the rest of us.
It's okay to cry in front of your friends, Xander... you made millions of them in the last year or so... Mad respect. Namaste.
This is an old video, and this guy has been my tv,reality show for the last year and to fine this gem of a video its touching and the tears of happiness and joy and pride for himself is magical bro u inspire me to also quit what im doing and move on strong thanks for the encouragement
Xander congratulations on a year of sobriety. I’ll be at 6 years in March. It took a lot of strength and God’s love for us to do it and to keep doing it. Thank you so much for sharing that.
Great content as usual sir. Keep it rolling!
Congratulations Xander! It's not an easy thing to stay sober. It will be something you have to work at for the rest of your life, but it's worth it. Thanks for opening up to us and thanks again for a great trip into the woods of Ontario!
Man I cried with you!! Im not at my one year yet and you inspire me so much! One day i will get to where you are!! Youre amazing!!
Watching again, nearly a year later, and you're at nearly 500K subscribers. What a testament!! You are, and have been, my favorite RUclipsr for about a year now. And love that you try to get your brother on board too! Keep keeping on, brother.
Really loved the heartfelt monologue, Xander. Though our experiences may not be the same, but your words really spoke to me and I can relate to those raw emotions. Love your videos, they always bring me much needed peace. God bless u mate.
Congratulations on the sobriety! I don't think I have seen such a honest display of real emotion on youtube before, it was very touching. Best of luck!
I'm glad that I've discovered your channel, I've never tried camping, but you don't know how many times your videos calm me when I'm feeling anxious or can't sleep. So happy to see that you're enjoying it as much as we do.
Thank you for bringing us along on the journey, Xander. I am currently in the trenches with some of what you described, but there is no doubt your videos have inspired me and given me hope for my own peace. Blessings to you brother, never change.
hope you’re doing better now man :)
Congratulations, Life only gets better! What's great about sobriety is that we get to feel our feelings. I know exactly how you feel. I'll have 7 years on Feb. 15th. Congrats again!
Just so know you are a amazing person and to bet the drugs, alcohol, vapes etc is something to be proud of . Alot of people can't or want do this and make excuses and blame everyone else and the world . I am sure its a hard task to overcome for everyone.
My dad died of alcoholism . Cousins were on pills and drinking and doing crime. I can relate somewhat to your journey. I am proud of you ❤ for the strength to get off the drugs etc. 🎉
This will be a fight forever so stay strong and focused, dont listen to the thoughts that deceive you.
Love your channel and personality and strength its truly amazing and beautiful to witness ❤️
You will conquer and continue to find yourself as well as happiness and freedom from the past I have no doubt 😊
You are good enough and have so much life ahead of you 🥰 you bring joy and inspiration to others in your journey and your family and RUclips family.❤❤❤
Sincere congratulations on your year of sobriety, and thank you for your authenticity. Not editing out your natural human emotions is a gift to us. ❤ Mother Nature heals and I'm glad you spend time with her. That baked potato rocked, and it's always a treat to find wintergreen berries! Thank you Xander.
So proud of you Xander. I have a son not quite there and I'm hoping by your inspiration, it will bring him to the realization that there is real life and true happines on the other side. You are my hero.
Even though it's been a few years; I'm happy to see you're still going strong and you've kept being yourself. Congrats on your sobriety!
You have huge balls to be able to admit that to everyone. Glad you turned your life around and are still with us to make the great content you do. We watch you over dinner many times a week. Love your great personality, you make us laugh a lot. Thanks!!
Hey! I’m so proud of you for taking such a huge step during such a shitty time. It really goes to show who you are in your soul. Journaling and going on these camping trips has seemed to help you so much. You’re called to nature and you bring me peace just by posting these videos. I hope I can join in on your journey sometime. Congratulations man, keep working towards your goals and dreams.
Thank you
Wow, takes courage to show those kinds of emotions to the world. Thank you for letting us in on this journey of yours. I know it will encourage others to break the cycle of highs and lows from using, and to find those natural highs from breathing the fresh air of the woods, hearing the crack of new snow underfoot, and listening to wolf calls through the night. If you are ever bringing new friends along on your adventures, I'll be first in line.
Seriously, Congratulations on the year of sobriety. I remember my first year of no drugs, no alcohol. The awesome emotions that came over me when I had that moment when I actually realized it had been a year. This video reminded me of then and also other milestones. 5 years, 10 years, etc. Still seems like yesterday my life was a wreck with those addictions. Not going to lie. Still occasionally have a desire for them but quickly lose them because I'm so far beyond that life. I still haven't given up the smoking in all these years but am actually working on that now. I've cut back a bunch and working toward giving them up completely. Another great video! Nice shelter by the way. Simple multi use shelter which is my favorite kind. You are and will continue to be an inspiration to many. I'm sure you will never fully understand how many are and will be inspired by your videos. But, I'm also sure that you are happy that many are taking something positive away from each of your videos!
I respect you so much, you have no idea. You are one of the most inspiring people I know of, and you showing your feelings and talking the way you talk, wearing your heart on the wrist if you will, just means so much to me. Thank you Xander, I've been watching you for quite some time, and I will never stop. Much love from Norway.
Wow! From watching your RUclips videos, you are such a positive person, I take so much inspiration from you, and to find out, the hell you were going through, shows the person you are today, keep going, and enjoy life.
Clive UK
I'm so glad you sussed it and got sober. Much respect. Like your toughness in the bush. Enjoy your nature loving photography too. Martin London England
Congrats on your sobriety - what an effort! I’m now 27 days sober and the hardest thing is learning to live without those dopamine hits. Thanks for all your great videos mate.
You were born sober, it is your natural state of mind and body. This helped me personally a lot. Stay firm and strong. It will be ok.
Congratulations on the full year of sobriety brother! I too went through almost the same story actually about a year and a half ago, keep doing what you’re doing Xander, as you can see for yourself, things get better :)! Just for today brother.
Hats off to you my friend, takes a lot to mention personal struggles with the masses, keep up the great content. We’re proud of you dude
Seeing this man cry is the hardest thing I’ve ever watched. This dude so happy to think he on stuff is crazy to me. Wanna live my life like u bro.
Xander so proud of your decision to back in life sober & free. I will pray for your continued healing. Thanks for being real & sharing your journey with us. Semper Fi !
People see your realness. I've the same story as you bro. Thanks God you are where you are. Love your videos. Canada is beautiful.
Double Wow,I’ve been sober since 2013 and I’m very proud and grateful for your presence!
So proud of your accomplishments!!! Your a wonderful, beautiful person!!! I for one have learned tons from your videos. So THANK YOU!!!
Congrats that is a really difficult thing to do. As a psychologist I see what addiction does to people and give you all props in the world. Love your videos and I’m glad you’re in a good place now.
Great job Xander! You earnt & deserve your spot on the happiness scale. Mentally & physically making it, as opposed to taking it. Evident down to the simple act of swinging your feet on a bed of logs. Don't stop, keep it up. Honored to be one of the 270k.
Thanks for putting it all out there. Best outdoor adventure content on RUclips. Congratulations on the sobriety!
Congratulations on your year of sobriety, you are doing something that most people can not or will not do! Great video as always!
Human moment, man. Human moment. Brave of you to express yourself like this. Completely can relate to your words and situation, you are not alone in the struggle, but you pulled yourself out. Good for you man
You are the man Xander. Thanks for being so real and authentic with us. A true inspiration.
You’ve got a fan in me! From Ottawa, On.
12:49 😭 Did so much for me Just seeing you open up I myself battling addictions .. This has been a long year for myself also and we both making it ..Xander your my favorite RUclipsr hands down ..
Thank you 🙏🏾❤💯 .. Also watched all 52 videos 😁
Glad you found your inner peace on top of the RUclips success. Your videos are really great at showing the joys in the most simple things in life, which god knows we all need reminding of these days.
It's incredible to see how open you are towards your viewers and how you allow them to witness your moments of vulnerability. You didn't have to share that information, however you chose to do so anyway. Thank you for opening up about it. Loved the video!
This was a great video just happened to see it today... Love your bed great idea. And I want you to know I'm proud of you, I'm a grandma I could be your grandma and I am proud of you for making the decisions that you did going through whatever you had to and the joy that you feel at your accomplishment I'm so glad you shared that. Who knows you're gonna help an awful lot of people get their lives straightened out I just know you are. God's watching over you you are fun to watch and he has got you in the Palm of his hand. Be blessed young man and enjoy your journey and if you ever make it to Portland I got a living room floor you can camp on that's about it. Be blessed Xander thanks for all you do I think your videos are the funnest ones I watch. You're just really good at making it fun. Blessings
Wow Xander thank you for being so vulnerable dude it’s not often you see someone so willing to show emotion. Thank you man. And I think I can speak for us all in saying we’re so freaking proud man.
Much respect brother, for everything you’ve done and been through. Keep up the good work. You’ve given me some things to think about. Love ya camping stuff. I think you could even turn it into a cooking show for campers.
Xander, I have been watching for videos for a few weeks now. Your videos help me find peace in what is a somewhat hectic life. I am inspired and have a great respect for your resolve to get up and go into the unknown.
I relate to your journey with alcohol and drugs very much. I am pleased to hear you have found peace from the storm. The way you described the highs and lows woke me up to my own life. I will be making some serious changes, sobriety is calling.
Thank you for your videos and for sharing your inner journey as well.
You are truly appreciated by myself and your subscribers.
Respect!!
Goodluck in your journey my friend :)
I felt some tears coming, and I don't cry easily. I was always thinking "this guy is just living the perfect and easy life", while in fact you went (are going) through quite a lot. My level of respect for you just skyrocketed. Keep it up man! I'm learning a lot from you.
Shock to see you here. I'm completely agree with you
God I wanted to hug you so badly😰
Im 28years old, from Austria and I want to say Thank You!! Because of Dialysis traveling isnt an option for me but maybe theres a kidney for me soon😁 Your videos motivate me to keep going, they are exciting, beautiful, stunning..and so much more as well as you.
Please keep going, you are wonderful and definitely my biggest role model😊
Greetings from Austria🏔️🙋🏻♂️
I’m so proud of you for how far you’ve come. Congratulations!!! Have you ever done the Hobo casserole is what we call them. Meat, veggies, potatoes, seasoning, butter or oil wrapped up in tinfoil and cooked on the fire till done. My husband was cub master then scout master to our boys troop for 15 years. We camped one weekend a month year round. Loved the kids. They named me Mother Teresa because I was always there. I heard all their stories. My sons are going to be 36 and 40 this year. I have 5 grandchildren. I wouldn’t trade anything for those days. I’m a disabled 42 year nurse.
Congrats on the year of sobriety. Mustn't have been easy and I have so so much admiration at your strength. Keep going Xander, you're doing an amazing job and you have a family of close of 300k people all over the world rooting for you.
Dude congrats on your year of sobriety!! There’s something so much more intoxicating about being present and in the moment. The wilderness and freedoms it brings is such a rush that cannot be replaced. So happy for you Xander and I appreciate the raw content and just keeping it real with us. Keep it up, this channel is awesome!!!
What a wholesome moment and it's a privilege to be allowed to share it with you via this video. You've done so well to make such a milestone! I genuinely wish you the best hitting the rest of them that are to come! Stay strong bro and keep the content up! ♥️
Congrats on your 1 year anniversary of your sobriety. Wonderful for you and your family. Been watching you for a bit and have seen one video where you spoke of stopping. Good for you. I have 2 sons that I'd love to help quit but it really is up to them. Keep on camping, teaching us about the outdoors and life. Best wishes Xander.
Well done you friggin’ legend! I’m 3.5 years sober from a 15 year drug problem. It was the hardest and best thing I ever did. So happy for you man!
Congratulations Xander, You have the best outdoor vids on RUclips 😃 Proud of you for admitting you needed to fix the problem.
Well done on your accomplishment. I'm sure it was hard work but you did it. Have you ever had any run ins with any wildlife that worried you? I pray for you on your trips to keep you safe. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and travels with us.
Congratz woodsbrother !! What a great inspiration you've become!! Keep on that dirt path and you'll be just fine ! Never forget that we're right here behind you 🥰
I comment very rarely, but now I felt the need to tell you Xander, thank you. Your work is inspiring, relaxing and so restructuring. Bravo and thank you again from a french boy who needs to watches your videos to fall asleep. love you all
thanks for keeping the segment about your year and sobriety in the vid! made it v authentic and vulnerable congrats bruv
Hey man good to be back with the snow videos… congrats on the year of sobriety, its a long way to go but finding things like camping or survival in the wild as a cure for your past problems makes you a real inspiration to many kids and adults who are or have been through the same situation. I've been watching your videos for about 1 year now and I can say that I would like to be able to do half of the things you've done! Keep up with these amazing experiences! we are all waiting for new videos on your channel! Keep up with the good work!
Congratulations on your one year of sobriety. Your content has made this year so much more bearable. It always lightens my spirits when I see an upload. You are having such a positive effect on people. Keep going…
Loved your openness, you should absolutely feel proud of yourself. It's good to just let it all out sometimes, keep fighting the good fight Xander, thanks for this video!
So much admiration for you. Lost my nephew to drugs a year ago. He couldn’t do what you did. Love your videos….keep them coming!
Thanks for sharing Zander. You have a great sober personality. Stay with it. It will only get better.
Thanks you for sharing man. Congrats on one year! Keep doing awesome things!
Congratulations on your 1 year of sobriety!! A big step. Found your channel like a month ago and it has easily climbed up to be one of my favorite channels. The way that you're inspiring to live life you're own way and to truly live life. Keep it up and be you, love from Sweden
Congratulations on your sobriety man! The channel is excellent. I wish you all the success in the future.
Wow man, thank you for being so honest! You've just become my favourite You Tuber out there. And congratulations for taking that personal challenge and becoming a better human for it. Take care and be safe out there....
i found your channel a week or so ago, the same time i thought about getting sober for the 6/7th time. funny enough in the first video i watched you mentioned your 3 yrs of sobriety, and i like to think it played a good part in strengthening my want to quit. seeing you talk about it all, abt reaching a year, made ME cry, and i cant even explain how bad i want that for myself. i know it seems silly and sappy to say, but thank you. this was a good, much needed reality check. youve made me rethink not only how i take canadas insane nature for granted but also how nice it would be to say that im sober:)
Congrats on 1 year Xander!! And to many more…
Congratulations on the one year, Xander. Keep up the hard work! Love your content ☺️
Hi Xander, I recently found your channel and have been watching your videos since. I find your presentation and perspective refreshing and to be a morale booster. I'd just like to say that when I came across this particular video, your honesty & freedom of emotional expression grabbed my heart & brought me to tears. I'm so proud of your accomplishment and wish you continued success in your journey. My prayers are with you.
Thanks my friend that means alot
Sitting here weeping and overwhelmed with pride and happiness for you Xander!!! Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful story of 1 year of sobriety and freedom from addictions!!! So ,so ,very ,very , happy for you and your family and friends!!!
Sending you peace and richest blessings ♥ 🙏 ♥
I absolutely love your channel!!!
Thank you for sharing your story. You have no idea how proud and happy so many are of you. You’re an amazing and inspiring young man. You are so humble and grounded. Please don’t ever change who you are deep inside your soul.❤
Congrats Xander. You are an amazing person. I would have never thought you had a struggle with substance abuse from finding your channel. Makes this even more inspirational. You said you never hit those highs - but think of all the people you are inspiring here. That’s pretty freaking awesome!!! Keep it up man.
Being outdoors when it's wet & cold feels so raw. Just like being out there in the elements. Only real campers can spend a night out in that kind of weather! Great video
i had never sub to your channel but after i seen the emotion and love for what you are doing i had to...hang in there young man and keep doing what your doing,,,,proud of you
I’ve been struggling with smoking weed and I’ve quit a few times only to go back, honestly watching you be so free and happy and one with nature, it gives me a sense of clearness. Thank you Xander, time to stay free and clean! 🙏🏽
Not only is it brave to share your story with the world but it takes a lot of strength to pursue sobriety, I know first hand. Continue staying focused on what brings you happiness and dont forget to smell the roses along the way. You’re an inspiration, and I’m sure you wouldnt have thought strangers wouldve been calling you that 18months ago. Thanks for the beautiful content, stay safe out there Brother.
Xander, I never knew about your struggles with substance abuse. I'm nobody to you, but I am SO PROUD of you! Also man, don't ever be embarrassed at crying! I had a Marine corps gunny grandfather tell me (when I was young) don't ever think crying makes you less of a man. You are simply showing emotion. RIP Grandpa. God bless you Xander!
I really admire and respect that you opened up and had the courage to be vulnerable like that. Congratulations on your 1 year of sobriety my friend.
Great film as always. The effort you go into documenting and film your trips is never unnoticed and always appreciated :D
Been watching your vids for about a year. Congrats on this incredible achievement. It's unfortunate that our society is filled/bombarded with endless availability of sources that provide instant gratification/dopamine where we have to do very little to get it. What you're doing is not easy and hence you've successfully brought yourself back to the way it should be, where we actually have to do something that requires effort and energy in order to get the dopamine release. Congrats again, you deserve everything you have because you've worked for it. It's also great to see you reflect and give yourself the acknowledgement and recognition you deserve for all you've done.
Thanks for this video Xander. I’m on my personal journey to complete sobriety. Watching you get emotional, cold alone in the woods, yet laughing shows how proud you are of how far you’ve come this past year and I hope one day I’ll feel the same serenity. Thanks my friend for the motivation
Man I love your sobriety story. I myself am “still dealing with it” , but I find when I can go out camping I don’t need a drink every morning and lunch and after work till I fall asleep. It’s not easy and I’m slowly getting better but no victory is made without a rough road .
You are an inspiration for humanity…
To enjoy Mother Earth and to conquer the demons…
God Bless You