Media

Ready for Life ‘Off the Grid’?: GBTV Launches Reality Show ‘Independence U.S.A.’

Here’s the news release:

GBTV LAUNCHES ITS FIRST REALITY SHOW- INDEPENDENCE U.S.A.

This January 2012, Join the Belcastro Family as They Prepare for an Independent Life Off the Grid
Co-Production Between GBTV and The WorkShop, L.L.C. Whose Team Has Produced Shows For History, ESPN, HGTV, Travel Channel, Lifetime, Discovery Channel and TLC, Among Others

(New York, NY December 13th, 2011) GBTV, Glenn Beck’s live streaming video network unveiled today its first reality show, Independence U.S.A. The show follows Frank Belcastro and his family as they try and become completely independent and prepare for life “off the grid.” Independence U.S.A. is being produced by GBTV and The WorkShop, L.L.C. whose team has produced shows for History, ESPN, ESPN Classic, Animal Planet, HGTV, trutv, Travel Channel, Lifetime, Discovery Channel, TLC, The Golf Channel, and Broadcast Syndication. The show will debut on January 18th 2012 and will air weekly on Wednesdays.

Ready for Life Off the Grid?: GBTV Launches Reality Show Independence U.S.A. | Belcastro family

Concerned that the economy could collapse? Or that a natural disaster could wipe out our infrastructure? So is Frank, and he is doing something about it! Believing that America has become too reliant on a crumbling foundation, Frank is preparing his family for life “off the grid,” admiring the way people lived in the 19th century. Like them, he longs to become completely independent. So he is embarking on one project at a time hoping to prepare his family for the worst, such as building a car that runs on wood in case gasoline supplies are interrupted, becoming expert hunters when grocery stores are no longer in existence, and making his own alcohol for barter when the dollar collapses. Frank does it all with determination, intelligence, and good humor. He’ll need all that and more, as he attempts to motivate a family that neither shares his fervor nor wishes to sacrifice the comforts and conveniences of 21st century life. In the series premiere- “A Hunting We Will Go”- we meet the Belcastro’s as they set out on a journey to be a self-sufficient family. Frank wants the family to be able to hunt and kill their own food but not every one is on board. Starting with making their own weapons Frank and his son Adam really learn an appreciation for the hunt but wonder if they will succeed.

Joel Cheatwood, President of Programming at GBTV said: “Independence U.S.A. is the perfect way for GBTV to enter the reality genre and promises to be an entertaining and informative look at how one family tries to grapple with their concerns for America.”

Ready for Life Off the Grid?: GBTV Launches Reality Show Independence U.S.A. | Belcastro family

Frank Belcastro said: “This show, for me, is a fun and sometimes funny way to get people to open their eyes and see what’s going on. Americans are so reliant on the infrastructure around them but when you can create something with your own hands and everybody works as a team, everybody does a part, you can focus on the positive of this. You can spend time with your family and your community.”

Ready for Life Off the Grid?: GBTV Launches Reality Show Independence U.S.A. | Belcastro family

This announcement follows the recent news that GBTV signed a deal with Icebox, the innovative animation production company to jointly develop an animated comedy series. Since its launch, GBTV has already added a wide range of original programming including Liberty Tree House and the comedy news show The B.S. of A. GBTV features Glenn’s two-hour show, which is broadcast live weekdays from 5 to 7PM ET from a newly-built set designed by Glenn and his team at the iconic NEP Studios in Midtown Manhattan. The show, which will be moving to Dallas next year, features Glenn’s unique fusion of entertainment and enlightenment and includes contributors like Amy Holmes, Will Cain, S.E. Cupp and Raj Nair.

Ready for Life Off the Grid?: GBTV Launches Reality Show Independence U.S.A. | Belcastro family

Learn More About The Belcastro Family:

Frank Belcastro
“The Man with the Plan”
A carpenter by trade, Frank’s not afraid to experiment in order to get his family one step closer to self-sufficiency but will he succeed? No idea is too big for Frank and he always sees them through. His family doesn’t always agree with him, but they’re always on his side.

Kim Belcastro
“The Skeptic”
Reluctant to accept change and always afraid of what she’s going to come home and find, Kim is always there to question Frank’s ideas. Afterall, it’s her house too and when you bring Frank’s ideas to life anything can happen!

Adam Belcastro
“The Wingman”
The youngest of the family, Adam is a local fire chief and Frank’s right hand man. No matter how crazy Frank’s idea is Adam is ready and willing to try it. Together this Father-Son team is unstoppable.

Emma Belcastro
“The Realist”
Emma is so comfortable in modern society that she doesn’t always see the point in her dad’s plans. She is always there to give Frank a hard time but at the end of the day she believes he has their best interest at heart.

Ready for Life Off the Grid?: GBTV Launches Reality Show Independence U.S.A. | Belcastro family

About Mercury Radio Arts
Mercury Radio Arts is Glenn Beck’s fully integrated multi-media production company. Mercury produces all Glenn Beck related properties including The Glenn Beck Program, America’s third highest-rated radio show, Beck’s New York Times bestselling books, and his live stage-show business.

Mercury’s digital platforms now include GlennBeck.com, the fan portal; GBTV, the live streaming video network;Markdown.com, the e-commerce site for connecting consumers with valuable discounts; andTheBlaze.com, the News & Information network.

Founded in 2002, Mercury has a full time staff of over 100 employees and is based in New York, NY.

About The Workshop, L.L.C.
The WorkShop, L.L.C. is an independently owned production company that specializes in creating high quality professional content. Whether The WorkShop is producing a broadcast television series or a broadband “webisode” series, each client is guaranteed to work with our award winning team of professionals. This multimedia service approach allows our client to choose the distribution platform for their project and have it executed in a way that best suits their consumers. The management team at The WorkShop has produced shows for The Golf Channel, History, ESPN, ESPN Classic, Animal Planet, HGTV, trutv, Travel Channel, Lifetime, Discovery Channel, TLC, and Broadcast Syndication.

Comments (180)

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  • SHASTADIANE1
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:47pm

    Nat Geo or Discovery, one of those stations had a show or a couple of shows like this I saw last year. It was about folks who removed themselves from the grid. It was most interesting and gave me some good ideas. I don’t do reality shows at all either, DWS, or Idol, forget it…but this I could see the point to. We too have been out of power, water, etc for 7-9 days a few years back. No fun, but we survived fine, because we had taken precautions, and we also we able to aide neighbors who were not prepared. You never know when you may need to know some of these things.

    Report Post »  
    • JesusFreak95
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 1:14pm

      Yes, this looks like the same family on another show that was up and gone fast on Discovery or History. I believe they live in PA. The Episodes I saw the father made a Pickup truck that could run on manure or whatever else he could get to burn, and then bought an old revolver and materials to make his own lead ball ammo. They bought goats for milking, etc. Was pretty interesting, but I only saw those few episodes and then it seemed to be gone.

      Report Post » JesusFreak95  
    • Bookster
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 1:53pm

      This was a show that was on The History Channel either early this year or last year. The show was called Apocalypse PA. If you look it up, the show graphics is the exact same thing except for the different show title.

      Shame on Glenn for trying to pass this off as his own new show. I thought “The Truth Lives Here”.

      Report Post »  
    • KickinBack
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 3:13pm

      I believe there were only a couple of episodes of apocalypse pa, and I was bummed as it was informative and entertaining. Glad that Beck’s bringing it back.

      Report Post » KickinBack  
    • dthomps6
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 3:19pm

      Bookster, don’t be a douche

      Report Post » dthomps6  
    • mils
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 3:29pm

      So..what happens if the gov regulates hunting…they do now..you must have a license, a certain time of year you can hunt..etc..So what happens if they say…no more hunting here folks..move on…

      you best have other things going for you besides getting a deer.

      However, we like the idea of doing for yourself..and not depending on the government..
      a couple of motor bikes…some hidden fuel…food…water +purifier…guns/ammo…a house/trailer/camper with propane for winter heat..a bug out point . Otherwise…it is not feasible for most Americans to go off grid completely.. I think the show will be silly…most reality shows are…Okay, I hope it won’t be…it is a subject that we should take seriously…but, as said..most reality shows are just dumb dumb dumb. We look at them and say…”surely people don’t act this stupid in real life, surely”….

      Report Post »  
    • Dismayed Veteran
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 4:37pm

      This is what Americans when things go bad:

      No fun, but we survived fine, because we had taken precautions, and we also we able to aide neighbors who were not prepared.

      Thank you, Shasta

      Report Post » Dismayed Veteran  
    • Huguenot Descendant
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 5:25pm

      This is a reality show I would like to see. Along with Gold Rush, Top Shot, Pawn Stars, and Storage Wars.

      Report Post » Huguenot Descendant  
    • P C BE DAMNED
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 5:40pm

      You don’t have to hunt as you can just take your gun and go out and be a food gatherer. There is a distinction. Be sure not to sign anything and they will release you shortly or if you are really hungry just tell the agent to get the hell gone as you will not be arrested today.

      Report Post » P C BE DAMNED  
    • Ruler4You
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 5:55pm

      I guess if “Hell on Wheels” or “American muslim” is supposed to be an ‘accurate’ depiction of history and reality, then I guess GB can create his own reality show. It gets my vote.

      Report Post » Ruler4You  
    • Bookster
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 7:35pm

      To dthomps6

      Thanks for the well thought out intelligent comment. Glenn is big on honesty and integrity, things I greatly admire. I found it very ironic that he is pulling this show out as being his own when it clearly is not. All he needed to do is say that he is resurrecting a show from the History channel that didn’t make it but seems like a good fit on GBTV. That would have been honest. I liked the show when it was on the HC, and will watch it on GBTV.

      But hey, if it makes you feel good to call people names, by all means I hope it made you feel like more of a man.

      Report Post »  
    • Eliasim
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 8:56pm

      Now I wonder if they have calculated into their planning the several thousand people who will be out simultaneously doing the same thing, or people who will shoot at them to steal their food? I suppose a little combat training would be helpful likewise.

      Report Post »  
    • drago
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 10:09pm

      @bookster
      No where in the article did i see this was a Glen Beck idea for a show, and if it did say that, then point out where, and this goes out to all of you saying the same thing…..

      Report Post »  
    • libsaredumb
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 10:36pm

      @BOOKSTER, it’s sometimes better to remain silent and not reveal your ignorance. Though you probably think glenn beck personally drudges out in the woods with a video camera, these kind of shows are usually created, developed and produced by independent production companies in order to sell the rights to an interested media outlet. It’s a little something called the free market.

      Report Post »  
    • metalurgy
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 11:24pm

      You can regulate hunting all you want. Try enforcing that law when people are starving and see how long you live.

      What are they going to do even if they can arrest you, three hots and a cot? Where is the down side?

      Jail food tastes like crap (unless you are one of the regulars and love that ****) but you arn’t starving while you hunt it.

      The goose population could use some serious thinning here in MN anyways. BTW, there are enough hunting/trapping seasons to keep a family of four well fed all year. Been there done that.

      Lived in the outdoors in the winter for an entire winter during the Carter administration. Cake walk if you taken any survival training and put it to practice. You lose a little weight but you eat better, sleep better and get **** loads of experience an confidence knowing you don’t need the Gov to survive. Ask any bum downtown St. Paul or Mpls. Those ****** are hard as nails and can teach you a few things for a pack of cigarettes or fifth of bourbon.

      Report Post » metalurgy  
  • Fellowservant
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:46pm

    What fun! I have never been a fan of reality TV shows, but this one looks like fun…. can’t wait for it to start…

    Report Post » Fellowservant  
    • MEANS2RESIST
      Posted on December 14, 2011 at 8:53am

      Mils, I guarantee when things get bad and people have to hunt to feed themselves & family, theres no game warden in country thats going to stop people from hunting, well me anyway. He’d best walk away if values his existance. Know what I mean? Maybe by then there will be UN game wardens, then the turkey shoot is on…..

      Report Post » MEANS2RESIST  
  • Guitar Master
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:44pm

    zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
    THE REPORTER’S Take
    zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

    Why not just do re-runs of Survivorman or Man vs. Wild. I’m sure Bear Gryls will be glad to help out.

    In fairness to Glenn lets give it a chance folks.

    PS. Last week there was a segment showing Ms. S.C. Cap, who thinks she knows it all, next to a black bear she had just killed in Alaska – so she said. Another one of those “oh! look how beautiful this bear is?“ who kill animals and then admire how ”beautiful” they are. Ms. Cap I have a question for you: what kind of a thrill do you get out of killing a living creature? Did it give you a rush, a certain high or are you just trying to prove to yourself that you are a worthy person? You may have a pretty face but you’ve got an empty head Ms. Cap, Cup or whatever your name is. Really sick people in this world !!

    Report Post »  
    • BrayDeck
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:59pm

      Hunters are sick? What the heck is wrong with you? There’s something called the circle of life, buster, which is a totally natural thing and necessary for the balance of nature. The hunter kills the hunted. Do you also cry when you see the poor antelope brought down by a lion?
      It’s not “sick” it’s nature. Now go chew on some grass you stinkin hippie.

      Report Post » BrayDeck  
    • country_hick
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 1:12pm

      Guitar Master; You are, of course, a Vegan? Or do you enjoy meat but let someone else do the killing for you that way you are not responsible for the death of a “living creature”?

      Report Post »  
    • sefstrom
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 1:53pm

      Hey! Give her a break! She likes bear meat and so do I!!! :)

      Report Post »  
    • chazman
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 2:05pm

      … what’s yer favorite color, guitar freak? CLEAR?

      Report Post »  
    • PossumRoadkill
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 3:06pm

      It’s OK if you are killing for food. If she used the bear meat and skin, I have no problem with it at all. If she did not and only did so for a thrill or trophy, then shame on her. Wild meat may soon be the only meat we are able to get. Everyone should know how to hunt and fish and clean and cook their game. Those who can‘t or won’t, won’t survive long.

      Report Post » PossumRoadkill  
    • skitrees
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 3:38pm

      Just wonderin’..How many bears were bulldozed or shot in order for the guitar business to evolve over the years? How many pristine forests were laid waste for a few frets on the neck of a guitar…or how many walrus were killed for a unique ivory figure to be inset in the fretboard/soundbox. I wonder how many sea turtles or amphibians died due to the pollution caused by plastic manufacturing (used in all forms of modern life – including your computer/mobile device, and modern guitars. How many lead poisonings occurred as a result of circuitry and such in producing recording equipment (and all forms of electronic equipment) for guitars and other music (computers too)?

      Hmmmm? Just wondering, “Guitar Master” – do you take joy in killing critters?!

      Report Post »  
    • SEOhio
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 4:12pm

      Really? Have you had bear meat? Pretty tasty! And alot of it. The pelt on that bear would make a fine coat. Guess you will be scavaging the left overs when the time comes. P.S. I‘m a female too and haven’t lost any of my girlish charms. Every girl around here were always taught to hunt just like the boys.

      Report Post » SEOhio  
    • jcldwl
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 5:42pm

      She said it was delicious so she killed it for food. But I won’t argue hunting. I just started hunting to be more self sufficient and I get my right to hunt from the highest power. Just read Genesis 9:3

      Report Post » jcldwl  
    • uzi4u2
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 6:21pm

      Oh brother, another treehugger, just what we needed. Have you EVER hunted? You people seem to think all we do is drive out into the woods, set in the car and snipe a deer. In the woods, the animal has all the advantages, they live and “work” there. Huntin‘ ain’t easy and anyone here that thinks if worse come to worse they will simply go out and bag a deer for dinner will be starving in a week.
      Now that said, I don’t like it when slob hunnters hit the news, others think they represnt all hunters and it ps ss es me off. I’ve also been known to turn in illegal hunters/poachers to.

      Report Post »  
    • Puddle Duck
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 9:03pm

      Her nasal passages must be blocked…a Bear may be a beautiful animal to look at but they stink like no other IMO. As for killing a Bear there is no real point to it other than self preservation if the situation calls for it. Nusiance bears are becoming more common place as we continualy encroach on a shrinking habitat. That being said most top tier predators have amde a remarkable comeback (since 1900). Conservation areas etc have done thier jobs but the eviromentalist movement (which was reasonable 40 years ago) has become to autocratic and rigid with ever increasing overbearing (pun intended) nonsensical regulat5ion (through the EPA and Fisheries Wildlife). I believe the rules change for folks that are off the grid…you can hunt for food but I’m sure there are certain restrictions to how much you can take out of the ecosystem. A few full grown deer can yield quite a lot of meat as would a moose or two. Planty for a whole year for a family of 4-6 I would imagine. My Uncle and cousin still hunt for moose and deer every fall…they eat what they shoot. Moose burgers are damn good. I’m getting hungry thinking about it…..

      Report Post » Puddle Duck  
    • Here in Texas
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 11:31pm

      Hey Guitar Dude

      I don‘t know if you’re aware, but BEAR IS DELICIOUS. Greasy, but delicious. You sound like a wuss to me. Just sayin’.

      Report Post »  
    • buzdburd
      Posted on December 14, 2011 at 1:14am

      Guess what?
      The meat you buy at the store was originally a “beautiful animal.”
      The fact is, you didn’t have the guts to kill it!!
      Time for you to figure out that life has to kill life to survive.
      Get your head out of your @$$.

      Report Post » buzdburd  
    • thop1960
      Posted on December 14, 2011 at 3:04pm

      @POSSUMROADKILL

      Dude, you don’t have to be the one to eat the meat in order to hunt it. I have on many occasions killed deer and had the meat processed and then given it away to those who needed it. You people condemning S.E. are either not hunters or you’re a liberal, maybe both. A true conservative gets what it means to be a hunter (see uncle Ted Nugent), it’s about self-reliance and individualism. But liberals can’t wrap their tiny heads around that concept. That’s why they will never make it when the crap hits the fan, maybe that will be a good thing for the country.

      Report Post » thop1960  
    • Fullmagazine
      Posted on December 14, 2011 at 6:25pm

      The bear had abetter chance than your leather sofa, you moulyuck.

      Report Post » Fullmagazine  
  • Zcat
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:43pm

    Did you guys read the story ” Did Federal Agents Really Raid a Mormon Food Storage Facility?”

    If not, you really should. I was shocked to find out people were actually answering the questions on the questionaire about their food storage and what they were doing or had done to prepare.

    Report Post »  
    • KangarooJack
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 1:07pm

      No, I haven’t read the story, but your post reminds me of getting a questionnare regarding are you prepared for a zombie apocolypse….WOW! Didn’t answer that one and I pity the idiots that did. {I love the ‘Walking Dead’ the app came from AMC site…with “sponsorship organizations”.

      Report Post » KangarooJack  
  • LadyLibertea
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:41pm

    Wanting to be self sufficient and living off the grid is no more wacko than someone who expects that those skills won’t be needed someday. My sister-in-law thinks there will always be a grocery store, there will always be energy, if the power goes out she’ll just go to a hotel and eat at a restaurant. People who live off the grid aren’t crying over trees as someone stated above. These people are survivalists and when things get really bad they’ll start looking smarter and smarter to you. Right now we have the opportunity to learn these skills before we actually need them….once the time comes that we need those skills the time for that preparation is over. Maybe people might learn something from this show. Quit being so critical of people who are learning these skills. We should ALL know how to grow our own food, survive without an ipad, shoot a handgun, shotgun and long range with a rifle, kill our dinner, make clothing, make candles, etc….that isn’t crazy….what’s crazy is to not be self sufficient—in my mind it’s suicidal to expect others especially the govt. to save you.

    Report Post »  
    • Dismayed Veteran
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 4:47pm

      We should allk now these skills for survival. However, I don’t think that most Americans will head to the wilderness become lone wolves. I think people will band together for mutual good and protection. There will be mountain men for sure. But most of us are pioneers and we will survive in a group. The failure of civilization will happen in the cities not in rural areas. People in rural areas still have the barn raising ethic. Prepare yourself then hel[p your neighbor. That is how civilization will survive.

      Report Post » Dismayed Veteran  
  • Zcat
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:40pm

    I’m open to ALL information thats helpful and useful.

    Report Post »  
  • Smith357
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:34pm

    If nobody dies it is not reality. In a real SHTF scenario a lot of people will die, and you had better be ready to kill those who will kill you for what you have.

    Report Post » Smith357  
    • chazman
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:59pm

      … I’ve been hunting and fishing since I was five years old. First deer when I was seven. Rode my first horse when I was seven. Rebuilt my first engine (Ford 260 V-8) when I was 17. Worked construction after my stint in the service building my first house when I was 25. Have got about two years of provisions / survival gear, tools, generators, fuel all put back and ready to use. Many firearms and more ammo than I have ever owned. Lots of booze for barter. About five thousand in silver coins, pre 1964, and three acres of land somewhere in Ohio. Right now I could survive comfortably for at least two years, heat and electricity included. I‘ve always said that it’s better to have all of this stuff and not need it than it is to need it and not have it. As soon as OBAMMY was elected I was convinced I was gonna need every bit of it! Good luck all, and God bless America!

      Report Post »  
    • kentuckypatriot
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 4:42pm

      @ CHAZMAN:
      I live in KY, when SHTF, can I come hang out with you??? J/K

      Report Post » kentuckypatriot  
    • MEANS2RESIST
      Posted on December 14, 2011 at 9:20am

      Yup!

      Report Post » MEANS2RESIST  
  • John Galt here
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:33pm

    Isn’t this the same family highlighted in “Apocalypse PA”? That program only lasted a couple shows before being cancelled. I enjoyed the couple I watched tho’. In “Apocalypse PA” the father made a gasifier that provided enough fuel to run his pickup truck. I am one of those “OTG” freaks who is striving for independence. I bought a place in the mountains nearby that, while on the grid, will soon have a 4KW solar system in place hopefully by spring next year. I’ve also acquired equipment needed to build myself a gasifier and have a like-minded friend and his family who is on board to help out if and stay on my “compound” if the bottom drops out. Hopefully, I’m wrong; but I think there’s going to be a lot of folks who will get a rude awakening when their wonderful government an no longer provide for them. In any case; I’m becoming more prepared if Obamageddon happens. And if it doesn’t; the worse that will happen to me is that I’ll have a summer home to go to and excape the brutal summers of the desert southwest.

    Report Post »  
    • Resister
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 1:06pm

      Yes it is. I liked that show and wondered where it went.

      Report Post » Resister  
  • bum
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:33pm

    They still have to pay land tax unles they plan on being nomads. As long as we have to pay land tax, Americans cannot be free. They will have to hunt and build enough to sell for profit so they can pay the government for their existence.

    Report Post » bum  
    • Carter John
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 3:30pm

      Also another good thing about Florida is we don’t have income tax.

      Report Post » Carter John  
  • thekuligs
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:29pm

    Dude, I so want a reality show like this. I seriously dislike reality TV, the only show I ever watched was LAST AMERICAN COWBOY but this is what I plan on doing. Although I think it would be way more amusing to watch my generation rough it.

    Report Post » thekuligs  
  • AmericanStrega
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:29pm

    Why is this supposed to be a comedy? Survival is funny? Glenn, you’re revving up that old motorcycle and getting ready to jump the shark.

    Report Post »  
  • blaaaaackwoman
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:24pm

    “building a car that runs on wood ” Ha what a laugh. Ever heard of a horse or mule, imbecile.

    Report Post »  
    • lketchum
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:34pm

      It is called wood gasification and it has been around since WWII. It works and an amazing amount of energy is stored in even a small block of wood. This matter is gasified and that gas burns in a simple carburetor, which from that point, runs like a normal internal combustion engine. Such gasifiers can be used to power electrical generators and quickly switched from powering a truck (for example), to powering a generator. They are not so large as to render them impractical.

      Report Post » lketchum  
    • Bookster
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 7:40pm

      Wood gasification is an age old way to get flammable gas from wood. They did it on this show as well as another show that was on the Discovery channel where a group of people were put in a “post apocalyptic” world. It works just fine but you need an older engine to make it work, one with a carburetor.

      Report Post »  
  • NOMOBIGDRAMANOBAMA
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:03pm

    I really don’t do “reality” tv, but I will have to watch this one. Could cause me to fall off my chair laughing!

    Report Post »  
  • mrsmileyface
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:01pm

    I am proud to say that I Mr Smiley Face have NEVER EVER EVER not ONCE have ever tuned into a reality TV program. And I dont plan on starting now. They are all garbage. Plus I dont care what other people do. All I care about is ME.

    Report Post » mrsmileyface  
    • AvengerK
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:11pm

      Can’t stand reality shows. Doubt I’ll invest in this one either.

      Report Post »  
    • Kaoscontrol
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:37pm

      I’ve worked as a crew member on reality TV shows. Just watching this promo– a lot of it is staged. The producers create so much of the so-called ‘reality’ scenarios. This show will probably be ‘entertaining’ and maybe ‘informative’ but, in my opinion, runs the risk of destroying the ‘truthfulness’ that viewers of GBTV tune in for. Be fore-warned Glenn, you start giving us the same old manufactured fake crap other networks push at us and you run the risk of damaging the bond of trust with your audience.

      Report Post » Kaoscontrol  
    • mullet
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:49pm

      @Mrs. Miley Face, I’m not a big fan of reality television myself (I usually lose respect for people who really get into them) but I really wonder how you know they are garbage when you have NEVER EVER EVER not ONCE watched one. And all you care about is yourself? In my experience people who only care about themselves get a lot out of reality television. Perhaps you should check it out.

      Report Post » mullet  
  • lukerw
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:00pm

    At first this sounded like a Bore… but this looks Interesting, Educational, & Informative!

    Report Post » lukerw  
    • AZfreeman
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 3:22pm

      It was a very interesting show….a bit quirky, but interesting and informative. After watching the first episode, I scheduled it on my TIVO and was always just waiting for the next show. It was a real disappointment when it was dropped. On one episode he to took dried corn from his own field and poured it through a hole he cut in the top of a lawnmower to make his own cornmeal. I’m ecstatic that Glenn is bringing this program back and recommend it to everyone. ..rf

      Report Post » AZfreeman  
  • junior1971
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:00pm

    This sounds awesome. Hope they teach others to survive off the land. That is always good to know. Even if your just camping and hiking, let alone trying to survive.

    Report Post » junior1971  
  • DagneyT
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 11:58am

    GBTV just keeps getting better and better.

    Report Post » DagneyT  
  • SpankDaMonkey
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 11:57am

    .
    Most folks will starve to death…….But I think there’s an app for that…………

    Report Post » SpankDaMonkey  
    • BlackAce41
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:33pm

      I know how to hunt and camp, i also build my own boats…

      Report Post » BlackAce41  
  • TRONINTHEMORNING
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 11:56am

    I don‘t do ’reality’ shows but the best to all concerned.

    Report Post »  
  • rotcarpenter
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 11:55am

    Will they be crying over the “death” of trees? Off the grid people are wackos.

    Report Post »  
    • GhostOfJefferson
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:02pm

      That‘s quite a fine blanket you’ve cast there friend.

      Lots of libertarians and paleoconservatives (the folks before Neocons snarked into existence with Buckley), many of them into ranching and farming, seek to live off the grid as much as possible, it’s not the sole domain of leftists.

      Report Post » GhostOfJefferson  
    • rotcarpenter
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:12pm

      Nah. Still all wackos.

      Report Post »  
    • GhostOfJefferson
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:29pm

      @Rotcarpenter

      Amazing. Pray to whatever god you call your buddy, that the electricity never goes out for a week or two, even for a regular natural occurance. It happens all the time, we had the power out in central Ohio for almost 2 weeks back in 2007. We got by just fine while everybody else was struggling and scrimping and getting very nasty with each other, all without us having to sacrifice anything or be ‘weirdos’ as you claim.

      You seem to be functioning solely as a troll. Consider yourself unfed.

      Slainte

      Report Post » GhostOfJefferson  
    • louise
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:46pm

      Rot: I guess all the people who survived before there was an electrical grid…were wackos?

      Tell that to my grandmother who raised 8 children in a 3 room cabin built on the side of a mountain in SW Virginia. My mother grew up there with no running water or electricity in the home.
      Wackos? No. They are my people who immigrated from Scotland, Ireland, Wales and Germany.
      Son, It is always a good thing to know how to live without modern conveniences and take care of yourself and your family.

      Report Post » louise  
    • GhostOfJefferson
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:47pm

      2008, sorry, meant 2008.

      Report Post » GhostOfJefferson  
    • RedneckJim
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:52pm

      Dang Skippy, Ghost. I dream of just such living: the independent farm life, off the grid, away from the rat race. That’s been the plan for retirement for years. But with the economy having crashed and taken my 401k with it YET AGAIN, it looks like that dream is several more years out.

      Report Post »  
    • EgoBrain
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:59pm

      Rot~~ Let’s hope somebody takes sympathy on you, and keeps you fed and warm, if the worst happens.

      Report Post » EgoBrain  
    • rotcarpenter
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 1:00pm

      No. Because they didn’t have electricity and technology. We have technology now… Why not use it? It’s not coherent. If god forbid something happened than humans will have to adapt without electricity.

      If you have access to it and don’t use it. You are a wacko.

      Report Post »  
    • wellhangingchad
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 3:30pm

      @*******. What region of fla are u in? You don’t have to give town but I was just curious of region. I am in an area about 20 miles east of the lake. Being near a larger city does have it’s downfalls for self sufficiency but I am in the process of building a aquaponics system. This will help reduce the need to go to the store. Also have a wife who is an extreme couponer and have enough supplies and food for years. Ihave put some meat in the freezer already this season and heading out this weekend to harvest more. Plenty of guns and ammo. People should learn how to prepare or get some friends who will take them in.

      Report Post »  
    • wellhangingchad
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 9:29pm

      @*******. Cool. U are in the nice part of Florida. I almost bought 42 acres outside of Madison which should be somewhat closer to u than I am. I do lease 3k acres in cuthbert, ga a few hours north of Tallahassee. Glad to see there are a few good ol Florida crackers left around the state. Most everyone down here is transplant. They ruined this state by trying to make it the state/country they escaped from. Keep up the good work. Happy hunting and keep the freezers full!

      Report Post »  
  • Snowleopard {gallery of cat folks}
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 11:55am

    For those who are likely to be left in the cities when it comes, some advice and suggestions:

    Learn where in your area you can find birds, rabbits, squirrels and other edible flora and fauna to supplement your diets. Worse case even rodents can help in extreme times for survival.

    Obtain and learn how to use a bow/arrows; sling for small stones (or a tennis/golf ball to bring down birds on the wing), and a descent slingshot with pellets or stones. It may take time to learn how best to get such as birds yet it gives a supplement to meals.

    Learn how to at least use birdnets, simple bird traps and the like. Fishing nets for those near streams or worse case a city park with bass and trout.

    Report Post » Snowleopard {gallery of cat folks}  
    • mrsmileyface
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:02pm

      Thats why the boy scouts were such a valuable part of MY life. I still remember that stuff.

      Report Post » mrsmileyface  
    • Vickie Dhaene
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:49pm

      You right Snow. I live in Florida and am always prepared for weather disasters. Would also like to add that there are more fresh water fish worth eating than trout and bass. Bluegill, catfish, tilapia, and fresh water clams are great. Those who are critical now will be begging in the future.

      Report Post »  
    • Balrog28
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:51pm

      But – wait – don’t we need our almighty government to give us the license to hunt or fish? I’m confused – won‘t the game wardens find us when we go hunt the Zero’s deer? (BTW – I love that nickname for our current president)

      Report Post » Balrog28  
    • Snowleopard {gallery of cat folks}
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:55pm

      @Vickie — true, I live in Phoenix though, so I have to figure on what is availible within the local area. Good point too for others in the nation. Another thing for people who have access to pine needles and need to start a fire with kindling and such; a handful of the pine needles on an outside firepit or such can be used as well. Even if the area has had rain recently, a large mass of them will have some dry ones deeper down at the bottom or towards the center of mass.

      Report Post » Snowleopard {gallery of cat folks}  
    • EgoBrain
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 1:01pm

      And start saving the lint from your dryer, now. Excellent fire starter.

      Report Post » EgoBrain  
    • Dismayed Veteran
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 5:30pm

      Snowleopard

      If you are in Pheonix, don’t think of food or fire first. Think about water. Without water a person dies within 3-5 days and is unable to function by day 3.

      Report Post » Dismayed Veteran  
    • KickinBack
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 5:46pm

      I had taught myself back in my teenage years what I had deemed for a long while the useless skill of knife throwing. Perhaps I should dust off my old throwing knives and start practicing!

      Report Post » KickinBack  
  • Energized
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 11:49am

    This could be used as a primer for the future.

    Report Post »  
  • CPax5
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 11:47am

    This reminds me why I will never take GBTV seriously. I almost thought this preview vid was a joke. Don’t get me wrong, I too have pondered the location of my remote mountain survival compound (sarcasm).

    Report Post »  
    • truthseekerusa
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:09pm

      He who laughs last, laughs best. Will people in the cities start eating rats and mice for food when the grocery shelves are empty?

      Report Post »  
    • HorseCrazy
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:15pm

      I am sure you will be taking this same attitude when the manure hits the fan. you will be the one with your hand out

      Report Post »  
    • booger71
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 1:27pm

      HorseCrazy
      ————————–
      No Cpax5 will be one of the many Urbanites with buckshot in their rear end when they leave the city to steal from us

      Report Post » booger71  
    • Dismayed Veteran
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 5:25pm

      2CPAx5

      Just hope that you have a skill set someone can use when you flee the urban environment. The cities is where the violence will be the worst because the entitlement people will take what they believe they deserve.

      If you are phyically fit and/or have a skill that can be used for survival you might be accepted in a rural community. If not, they will probably feed a meal and send you on your way.

      If I were you, I would have a bugout plan for getting out of the city. You can find 7 day bugout survival food on the internet. It is not very expensive.

      Best of luck.

      Report Post » Dismayed Veteran  
    • Here in Texas
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 11:38pm

      …. Like dancing on the tracks as a train comes barreling in….

      Report Post »  
  • HorseCrazy
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 11:46am

    sounds fun can’t wait. good to know how to hunt I am glad they are including this but seriously, hunting is a survival skill not a cheap way to get meat. I could buy 25 big salmon at the grocery store for the amount I pay for a saltwater or columbia river endorsement on my fishing license. same goes with hunting, the tags are outrageous.

    Report Post »  
    • Stoic one
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:16pm

      If society collapses, are you going to worry about a license?

      Report Post » Stoic one  
    • LadyLibertea
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:53pm

      Uhmm….I don’t know where you buy your salmon, but I couldn’t buy that many salmon for the price of my licenses. The last Chinook I caught on the Columbia would have retailed at $400.00 and my license was only $60.00. And the turkey tag this year wasn’t expensive either….I agree with you that hunting and fishing is a skill, but I actually save money by doing it myself. Last time I was out on the pacific I bagged my limit in Dungeoness crabs and silver salmon (or coho) and the shellfish license is only like $7.00 and my crabs were worth hundreds of dollars and so were my coho’s…. so I don’t really get your statement.

      Report Post »  
    • booger71
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 1:30pm

      If society collapses, are you going to worry about a license?
      ——————————————–
      No the Game wardens will be out fishing and hunting too

      Report Post » booger71  
  • KangarooJack
    Posted on December 13, 2011 at 11:44am

    I’m interested. A show was on “Curiosity” that featured average people living as Cavemen…always helpful to pick up tips on how to survive with only the basics.

    Report Post » KangarooJack  
    • AmericanStrega
      Posted on December 13, 2011 at 12:36pm

      Purchasing books that detail the same is probably the best route to use. Watching a t.v. show about people who, after the shot is finished, go back to their nice warm suburban home and use the electric range to cook their store bought food, is just silly. However, having instructions at hand is much more useful. You can always reference back to a book (a real one. You know, made with paper and ink?) without having to have electricity to run the DVR.

      Report Post »  
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