Ep 8. The New World

In season 14, episode 8 of Life Below Zero titled The New World, viewers are taken on a journey into the lives of several individuals who have chosen to make their homes in the wilds of Alaska. These individuals are all united by a common theme - their struggle to survive in one of the harshest environments on earth.

The episode begins with Sue Aikens, the tough and resilient owner of the Kavik River Camp. Sue has been living and working in Alaska for over three decades, and her experience and knowledge of the land are hard to match. Throughout the episode, viewers are given an intimate look at Sue's daily routine, as she goes about her business in the camp. From cleaning cabins to helping hunters track caribou in the tundra, Sue is always busy, always working, and always adapting to the demanding environment that surrounds her.

Next, viewers are introduced to Glenn Villeneuve, who has lived alone in the wilderness for over 20 years. Glenn's rustic cabin in Chandalar provides him with shelter and some basic amenities, but his survival depends primarily on his skills as a hunter and gatherer. In the episode, Glenn is shown hunting for caribou in the mountains, and viewers get a sense of the tenacity and bravery it takes to live in such a remote, isolated place.

The episode also follows the story of Jesse Holmes, an experienced dog musher who runs his own team of sled dogs. Jesse spends much of his time training his dogs and preparing for the Iditarod, the world-famous long-distance sled dog race that takes place every year in Alaska. Viewers get a sense of the strength and intelligence of these animals as they glide through the snow and navigate difficult terrain.

Another character who features prominently in the episode is Andy Bassich, who runs the Triple Creek Kennel with his wife Kate. Andy's expertise is in training sled dogs and using them to navigate the Alaskan wilderness. Throughout the episode, viewers get a sense of the close relationship between Andy and his dogs, as well as of the challenges he faces in keeping his kennel running smoothly.

Finally, viewers are introduced to Chip and Agnes Hailstone, who live in Noorvik with their family. Chip's background as a hunter and trapper allows him to provide food and supplies for his family, while Agnes is responsible for teaching their children essential survival skills. The Hailstones are shown hunting for geese and preparing for the winter, as they work hard to stay self-sufficient in one of the most challenging environments in the world.

Overall, Life Below Zero season 14 episode 8 is a fascinating look at the lives of people who have chosen to live off the grid and survive in one of the harshest environments on earth. Although their lifestyles may seem difficult, even dangerous, these individuals all seem to share a common appreciation for the beauty and serenity of the Alaskan wilderness. The episode will undoubtedly leave viewers with a newfound respect for the incredible resilience and courage it takes to live in such a remote and isolated place, and an appreciation for the rewards that come with this way of life.