Ep 5. Past Lives

Life Below Zero is a reality TV show that takes a deep dive into the lives of people who have chosen to live in the harshest and most remote regions of North America, where they must rely solely on their survival skills to make it through each day. In season 16 episode 5 titled "Past Lives," viewers are taken on an emotional journey with the show's featured cast of characters as they reflect on their past experiences and the events that have led them to where they are today.

One of the main characters we meet in this episode is Glenn Villeneuve, a seasoned outdoorsman who has spent over 20 years living in the remote wilderness of Alaska. Glenn's journey to life off the grid began in his early 20s, when he made the decision to leave his life in the city behind and venture into the wilderness in search of a more meaningful existence. Throughout the episode, we get a glimpse into Glenn's daily life as he goes about his business in the wild, tracking game, building fires, and tending to his animals. We also hear from Glenn about what motivates him to remain in the wilderness, despite the many challenges he faces, including harsh weather conditions, predators, and encroaching civilization.

Another character featured in this episode is Chip Hailstone, a native Alaskan who has lived in remote regions of the state for most of his life. Unlike Glenn, Chip grew up in the wilderness, learning the skills necessary to survive from his family and his community. Chip's segment of the show focuses on his love of hunting, which he considers not just a way to feed himself and his family, but also a spiritual practice that connects him to his ancestors and the land. Throughout the episode, we see Chip in his element as he tracks caribou, hunts seals, and prepares his catch for the long winter ahead.

The third main character we meet in this episode is Sue Aikens, who runs the Kavik River Camp in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, which serves as a stopping point for adventurers, hunters, and scientists who venture into the area. Sue's segment of the show focuses on her personal story, including her struggles with addiction and her journey to the wilderness, which she sees as a place of healing and redemption. Throughout the episode, we see Sue interacting with her customers and tending to her camp, which includes everything from cooking meals to repairing buildings. Despite the many challenges she faces as a woman living alone in such a harsh environment, Sue remains fiercely independent and determined to make a life for herself in the wilderness.

Other highlights of the episode include segments on Jessie Holmes, who lives in the remote village of Nenana and spends much of his time mushing sled dogs; and Ricko DeWilde, who lives off the grid in the Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuge and relies on traditional hunting and fishing practices to survive. Throughout the episode, we see glimpses of the beauty and harshness of life in the wilderness, as well as the incredible resilience and fortitude of the people who choose to make it their home.

Overall, Life Below Zero season 16 episode 5 is a poignant and compelling look at the lives of people who have embraced a lifestyle far removed from the comforts and conveniences of modern society. Through their stories, we are reminded of the power of human connection, the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity, and the resilience of the human spirit in even the harshest of environments.