Ep 4. Family First

In the fourth episode of season 8 of Mountain Men, titled Family First, viewers are taken on a journey through the lives of several families living off the grid in the wilderness. The episode features three main storylines, each one highlighting the challenges and rewards of living a self-sufficient lifestyle in some of the most remote places in America.

The first storyline focuses on Tom Oar, a veteran mountain man living in Montana with his wife Nancy. Tom, who is in his 70s, is facing a health crisis as he struggles with a hernia that requires surgery. Despite the risks, Tom is determined to continue living his life in the mountains and refuses to let his health problems stop him from providing for his family. As he prepares for surgery, he reflects on his life and the legacy he hopes to leave behind for his children and grandchildren.

The second storyline follows Rich Lewis, a trapper living in Alaska with his wife Diane and their son, Jake. Rich spends months in the wilderness each year, trapping animals like wolverines and lynx to provide for his family. However, this lifestyle is not without its challenges. In this episode, Rich faces a dangerous river crossing while carrying a load of furs, and he must also deal with the stress of leaving his family behind for long periods of time.

Finally, the third storyline introduces viewers to Josh Kirk, a young homesteader living with his wife and young daughter in the Ozark Mountains. Josh and his family rely on the land to provide them with food, water, and shelter, but they face constant challenges in the form of severe weather, power outages, and unexpected maintenance issues. In this episode, Josh must deal with a failing water system and a chimney fire that threatens to destroy his home.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning views of the wilderness as each family goes about their daily routines. They see the beauty and serenity of living a self-sufficient lifestyle, but they also witness the hardships and struggles that come with it. Each family must rely on their own skills, knowledge, and ingenuity to survive in the wilderness, and they must work together to overcome the obstacles that come their way.

Overall, Family First is a thought-provoking episode that showcases the resilience and determination of families living off the grid. It's a reminder that a simpler way of life is still possible in today's fast-paced world and that the rewards of living close to nature are worth the sacrifice.