Watch Independence USA

Independence USA was an American reality television series produced by Total Content Digital that premiered in 2012. The show follows Frank Belcastro and his family as they attempt to live off the grid in rural West Virginia. The Belcastros leave behind their suburban life in New Jersey to build a self-sufficient lifestyle in the wilderness. They hope to escape the increasing cost of living and to prepare for any potential disaster that may occur in the future.

Frank Belcastro is a former telecommunications executive who had become increasingly worried about the state of the world. He worried about the uncertainty of the economy, rising food prices, and the possibility of a natural disaster or terrorist attack. After researching and studying the lifestyle of homesteading, he decided to leave his job and take his family to West Virginia to live a more independent life. His wife, Kim, and their three children - Cassy, JoJo, and Vinny - were reluctant at first, but they eventually came to embrace the new way of life.

The show follows the Belcastros as they learn how to live off the land and create a self-sustaining homestead. The family builds a log cabin with their own hands and works hard to grow their own food, raise animals, and harvest resources from the surrounding forest. They also install renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, to power their home.

Each episode of Independence USA focuses on a different aspect of the Belcastros' journey towards self-sufficiency. The family learns how to hunt, fish, and trap for their own food. They build a greenhouse to extend their growing season and start a honeybee colony to help pollinate their crops. They also work on improving their home, building a rainwater collection system, and constructing an outhouse and composting toilet.

In addition to showcasing the family's progress and challenges in living off the grid, the show also highlights the importance of community. The Belcastros befriend their neighbors and trade goods and services with them. They also participate in local events and festivals, such as the Ramp Festival, where they sell their homemade products.

Throughout the series, the family faces numerous obstacles, including harsh weather, equipment failure, and wildlife threats. They struggle to adjust to the physical demands of their new lifestyle and also face the emotional toll of leaving behind their old life and adapting to a completely new way of living. However, they remain determined and optimistic, working together to overcome these challenges and build their homestead.

Overall, Independence USA is an inspiring and educational show that highlights the importance of self-sufficiency and community. The Belcastros' journey towards independence is both entertaining and informative, offering viewers insight into the practical aspects of homesteading while also promoting the values of hard work, determination, and resilience.