How Did I Get Here? Rendezvous in the Ozarks 2023

Rendezvous in the Ozarks is my favorite event of the year but this year it didn't look like I was going to make it. At the last minute I was able to go and had a very special moment along with a killer night ride!
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[@paraengr0770]

Matt, in my humble opinion, disregard the haters. Petty jealousy is immature. Your videos are inspiring to us who are checking out the overlanding adventure. Keep the faith, trust me it works.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thank you so much!!

[@keithcrum2310]

Matt you and your wife are both very humble people I thank you both for some of the best overland adventures on KZbin!!!! Never stop and I hope to meet up with you guys on a trail one day !!!!

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thank you so much!!

[@justinwilliams8032]

From what I’ve seen in life, no matter what you do, what you make of yourself, there will always be those who can’t help but complain, be jealous, or try to tear others down. You & Cara are great people and are always down to chat with subscribers, fans, etc. This channel is what actually got me into Overlanding and building out my rig for more adventures. Keep it up, y’all are doing great.

[@claytondemmon8228]

I started watching your channel 6 months ago when I still had a Tacoma, now I have a Gladiator Mojave and watch it even more, love all your videos and you and your wife are awesome wheelers. Keep up the awesome content and informational videos, they truly are appreciated 🤟🤟🤟🤟cheers from BC Canada 👊

[@SidebandSamurai]

Matt, I have been following your channel for a few years now. You have accomplished lots. Taking us on your adventures. Inspiring us to get out there and explore. My wife and I love camping. Our favorite spot is Steep Ravine located 1 mile south of Stinson Beach near San Francisco. Another spot we like to camp at is Joshua Tree National Park. You know you are correct. Just get out there and enjoy the outdoors. I can tell you some fun experiences at both of those spots, and at Joshua Tree we camped out of the trunk of our car. So for those who say "Oh I need a decked out jeep to do this" I say hogwash. Yes you will not do overlanding in a car, but there are some fantastic camp sites that you can get to that are just as fun. Please get out there and enjoy this hobby we call Overlanding or "Outdoor camping" its hey greatest way to make memories. I have a T shirt that says "Stupid decisions make great stories" That is so true.

[@jeepinbanditrider]

I think that a disconnect does form to some extent. Some channels are better about it than others, I feel like yours is one of the better channels in this regard. Some become a straight up 20-30 minute advert for whoever their sponsors are. I also think it's difficult for many of us to get on board or wrap our heads around a 60k-90k truck/Jeep with 10-20k worth of mods pulling a 30-60k "overlanding trailer" while making it seem like it's a perfectly normal thing that every one does.

[@CraigG21]

Haters gonna hate… Keep doing what you are doing, inspiring the rest of us to get out there with whatever we have. 👍👊

[@AiryridgeAdventures]

Matt is the reaso why I got into Overlanding! I may not have all the money in the world, but what I am is rich in adventure! I look forward to maybe one day be able to ride some trails! Thank you for providing us with amazing content!

[@RocklanderUSA]

Matt, I’ve been following you since your neon rainbow hair days…love your content brother! 😊

[@dalekarraker6851]

Matt, Great video and message! We on the receiving side of things watch "the arc" of some of these content creators. Some just fade away, and yes, some get a bit too far removed from why they started out in the first place. You and Cara have improved the quality of your videos, but have never lost your humility or your awe at nature and your appreciation for your good fortune. But also don't forget that your HARD WORK is also part of your success - and you deseve the fruits of your labor. Thatnk you again for your candor in describing "how you got there". Be safe on the road - hopefully we'll see you on the trail somewhere.

[@markperza384]

Matt... Thanks, your one of the humblest persons I KNOW OUT THERE... You're the best!!

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thank you so much!!

[@musicloveyes]

Matt, I agree with some of the other comments. These videos you put out are completely inspiring! So much so that my wife and I bought a jeep and decided we wanted to go out and experience all this amazing nature. It’s because of your Chanel and cara, oh and goose. My wife always has to see goose when he’s with you guys. Lol but you have inspired people to get out and off the beaten path off the road to enjoy all that nature has to offer. So you have done more than just a KZbin Chanel. Thank you for all the hard work you put into it for us to enjoy!

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thanks so much!!

[@woodnbobberworkshop]

Great to see the Rendezvous for us that could not make it!

[@kkcarricaburu6042]

So sorry you both got sick. Take care. 🌞

[@nickh402]

I enjoy the heck out of your videos! Can’t wait to do some more off roading myself again soon. Your channel gets me through the weeks I can’t make it out. Love what you guys are doing!

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thanks so much!!

[@ahmednesbitte4906]

Amazing video, no way have you or some of the various overland KZbinrs have loss touch! I’m sure I’m not in the minority when I say I appreciate what all you and some of the KZbinrs do for the Off-Roading and Overlanding community. I hope you and Cara feel better 🚙🚗👊🏽

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thank you so much!! We are both feeling great now.

[@exploretography]

great video! Thanks for taking us on another adventure! Love the drone work!

[@tommoffa4732]

It is just a matter of being in the right place at the right time. You guys were enjoy

[@BeardedBBQ129]

Matt, you and Cara are both awesome, top-notch people. I have just started learning about overlanding, and bought my first jeep just a few weeks ago! I love watching your videos and have learned so much! Keep up the great work, and keep those videos rolling!!!

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@TBoandMo]

Holy cow. We ran the same trail but the other direction on Thursday. One of the Gladiators in our group lost the same fender. Good news, it was only the clips and we already have it back on. Thanks for making him feel better about it.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

😂😂😂 I had new clips ordered and arrived at home the next day. Easy fix!!!

[@Eveloffroad]

You guys are problem some of the most down to earth good people I know. Answering texts, willing to wheel, having fun with your kids, etc. Glad to be able to call your guys friends.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thanks bro!!!!

[@brian_hamlett14]

Love the Content Matt, just keep making Great Videos!! I look forward every week to see what you got for us!! 😊

[@linework11]

Great points keep it up love all your stuff

[@marcobreton4925]

Best video you have done,and I have watched to date. You humbleness is fantastic. I assumed a bit of what you had mentioned, i.e.,the rich folks. But you've opened my eyes even more than expected. Congrats on all your hard work filming and congrats on your hard work getting sponsors. This has really opened my eyes on what a lot of you youtubers go through to deliver great products in film.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Wow, thank you!

[@kemmick]

Matt, great video. This looks like a great get together, hope we get a chance to come at some point. Appreciate all the background on your story. We are beginners and one of the things we love about this channel is knowing that you all started from basic gear and grew it into what you have now. Keep all the content coming. We love it!!

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thanks so much!!

[@ABD4VIDS]

Great video! I think y’all do a great job!

[@tomassanesson902]

awesome video and good luck 🤙🤙

[@2fatguysadventurechannel]

Hey, everything Shawn and I do on our channel (with our 475 subscribers lol) is on our own dime. People who bash the bigger channels like yours would do exactly what you’re doing if given the opportunity. Your channel is one of the big reasons we went from four wheelers and side by sides to wheeling in my Jeep and his pickup. Let the haters hate. Just keep on wheeling and we’ll keep on watching.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thank you so much!! Keep doing it because you love it!!

[@69stevem]

Watching your videos of you and your having a blast out in nature with your rig is a reason why I'm now building my truck up to enjoy nature the way you both do. Thanks for the motivation to get out and explore. Even though I'm on a budget.

[@adventureoverland1960]

Matt, Love your videos brother,keep them coming and don’t worry about the hater’s. Nobody does you better than you. We are all out here just trying to live a great story.

[@snowloris]

We watch your videos to see how the gear does in the trails. Knowing what I may want to use on my rig saves money from not choosing the wrong gear first. Like seeing what setup you are trying out, love the scenery and artistic nature of your shots. Keeps me motivated when I can’t be out on the trail. Don’t read so many hater comments and keep making great videos!!

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thank you so much!!

[@miillersoffroad]

Nice video man. Appreciate the transparency for sure!

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thank you so much!!

[@claiselden399]

I would have loved attending this event, had no idea this kind of thing was even happening

[@athoutdoors9921]

I wouldn’t worry about what people think. Good video!

[@maverickmoore]

I've just recently found your videos and I love em. Keep doing what yall are doing.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thank you so much!!

[@thedewd516]

There will always be people who complain. While I think it's often important to reflect on the criticism, I disagree. You can be successful and still be in touch. I enjoy this channel and others because it's great people. And this is coming from a Toyota guy 😊

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thank you so much!! We love Toyota guys!! Lol

[@davidritacurl797]

Dude, he's driving the dog snot out of that Raptor. I love it.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Yes he does. lol.

[@Rob-jq3zu]

What happened to 4wd on that raptor?

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

@@Rob-jq3zu I’m not sure. Haven’t heard.

[@adamsimon4775]

After the tire giveaway you filmed my daughter dancing, now she thinks she is a superstar. Your the best brother thanks

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

😂😂 That’s awesome!!! Tell her hi for me.

[@msubulldogdotcom]

Yup, made my daughter's day to be on tv with her new friends from Rendezvous.

[@jeremylong6860]

Matt, during my journey of full knee replacement, I've discovered your channel. Love it!!!! From Missouri live in the Upstate of South Carolina. We have beautiful overlanding opportunities here!!!! Have you been this way in the Carolinas?

[@glenngore6609]

I found over the past couple years that some of the bigger KZbinrs have indeed left the “average Joe” behind. And I mean this about the equipment they use, the Jeeps they use and how they are modified. It was a very slow process and I will use one set of KZbinrs as an example, they guys at Epic Adventure Outfitters in Canada. They started out as a group of guys who did some minor mods to their Jeeps to go play in the mountains. Then they updated to 35’s, then 37’s, then 40’s with each of them running that size tire now. Of course that size tire means you have to trash everything except the body and frame, installing an entire new suspension, a really serious upgrade. Then then all upgraded to Hemi’s or some other similar engine, which meant they trashed the entire drivetrain, transmission, transfer case, everything, massive expense. All of them have this and their videos sound like this is the “norm” now for anyone planning to go wheeling. Sadly, it is not the norm, the vast majority of wheelers do not have Hemi’s, 40 inch tires, and one-ton axles. We drive almost stock with a few upgrades. But these KZbinrs no longer put out videos for us. I do not begrudge those people one bit for doing this. They have sponsors who give them stuff for free, they have KZbin ad revenue and Amazon affiliate revenue streams that help them out. Some are not all that open about all the freebies they get and get real defensive if they are asked whether or not a certain part was given them free in exchange for “testing”. I just ask that KZbinrs be completely open about all this, like you are, Matt. I really enjoy your videos and enjoy your love off overlanding. Stay real and we will continue to support you.

[@Passion-RoadtripsOverland]

We love so much your videos and adventures ! You and your wife are inspiring! We also do overlanding on a smaller scale but we love it so much with our jeep gladiator " blue" and alu cab canopy camper ! We also open a channel to share our passion ! We continue for sure following you! ❤

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thanks so much!!

[@lukepeters6346]

Don't listen to the negative people...a lot of people these days aren't happy unless they are complaining. Love the channel....

[@benlitfin2275]

"Squirrel"!!! ........ no ......... "TREE!" ... "Tree!" ... "tree!" ... "TreE!" So, yep, I enjoy watching you direct traffic over tough spots! Thanks for the video. ....... "Squirrel!"

[@anthonymissirlis3710]

people gonna hate regardless ! . just do you, live your life to fullest and don't worry about what people say . been following you guys for a couple of years off and on ( you tube decides to unsubscribe from a few channels every now and then !!). i don't see haters in your comments though , unless i miss that but it's good for the channel to get the comments flowing LOL

[@shawnputnam1061]

Matt, I don't think you've lost touch... I've been watching your videos for weeks now, binge watching many (lol) when I started building my money pit, I started using KZbin to find ideas and you popped up and TSTN popped up. You are both my favorite YT,ers Your videos are always reinforcing get out and do it, you always say you don't need fancy gear, you always say that. You put out some great adventure videos, and some excellent how to videos. You are being rewarded for your effort, don't let those who don't work hard make ripples in your pond. Would love to see you and TSTN do some videos together, Thanks for another great video, glad you feel better and hope Cara gets better.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thank you so much!! Shaun and I love doing things together and have plans for more in 2024.

[@staceysmith2697]

Don’t worry about the haters, I have watched your videos the last few yrs & how your videos have grown. And how you have been able to get the new goodie’s, I think it’s cool that you decided to get into this hobby full time. You do a fantastic job with the videos, not everyone can make good videos me included in that lol, keep having fun & keep bringing us good videos to watch my friend.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thank you so much!!

[@RanchoTexano]

Sorry Cara got it too, but glad you were able to make it. The effort and time you put into these videos is truly amazing and appreciated! Obviously this is a work of passion for y’all

[@ThelifeofKingfish]

Am I jealous at what you have worked hard to build… maybe a little, but it’s not really jealousy. It’s more admiration at what you have attained and what it’s allowed you to achieve and/or afford. It’s also inspiring; put in the work, be genuine and build relationships to achieve your dreams.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thanks so much!!

[@daveschomerus4805]

The fact that you review, and use, budget friendly and top of the line equipment shows you haven't lost touch. I bet a lot of your subscribers appreciate you showing the more expensive equipment in use. And sure, you have a nice three fender rig, but this is an overlanding channel, not a vehicle repair channel. I know how wrenches work, I want to see how the rig and all the equipment work out on the trail. Not someone wrenching to just to make it to the trail. As always Matt, love the videos, keep them coming!

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thank you so much!!

[@josephcampbell9239]

First Matt and Cara I hope that you both get to feeling better. Second, for all the amazing content that you and Cara have produced over the years i thank you. For those of us who know what it takes of you and Cara running up hills, Standing in water crossings, and doing drone footage of the trails to get these amazing footage it is greatly appreciated for the hard work. I'm a long time follower, and please ignore the negative comments.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thank you so much!!

[@robertellis2382]

Mat I have followed you since you got Sully. Your channel attracted me because you are genuine. Yes you have cool gear and good for you. You help the rest of us decide what we want to spend our hard earned money on. But more than that, you remember where you came from. I have reached out to several other channels with questions and heard either crickets or was made to feel stupid for asking. I needed help contacting Openroad and you jumped on it. I heard from them the next day and my issues were solved. Thank you so much and keep making the vids. I will keep watching. Hope y’all feel better soon.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thank you so much!! I’m glad to hear that!!

[@jeffmorris739]

It's a job Matt. It's a very special job that allows you to be you. I would love to have something like what you do but it's hard to jump off the cliff and say this is what I do for a living. Ain't it cool? Yes it is. Thanks for the video.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thank you so much!! It’s the best job ever!!

[@bunttom9007]

Ford got it done in 2wd! Respect

[@user-qu7vx2sf6k]

Was sorry you was sick last week, I was looking forward to the Gaia class, maybe catch it at Moore

[@user-qu7vx2sf6k]

Glad to see you both are feeling better.

[@mikemcfarland2722]

Don’t worry about the haters. I am trying to get started into overlanding and I landed on your channel a while ago and I keep coming back for trail ideas and honesty when it comes to what gear I ACTUALLY need and how to have fun exploring no matter what gear you have or what you drive. I had the pleasure of meeting you briefly at Big Iron this year but you had to go teach a class so our time was cut short. I will say from that brief conversation, you have not “lost touch” very humble and very nice person. I plan on attending Big Iron 2024. So hopefully I get a chance to have a little longer hang out with you. AND I wanted to meet goose but Cara must have had him else where 😂. Either way I look forward to seeing You, Cara and especially goose. Keep exploring brother!

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thank you so much!! I think Cara was attending a different class at that time.

[@davidritacurl797]

Sorry about y'all's feeling under the weather. Matt just send the haters my way. Will gladly speak with them.

[@shanew.8784]

Gotta add the spicy cheezits to the chili👍

[@andygoodson2399]

Seems to me like some do lose touch. It's been interesting with you and Cara, though. There's a natural progression from the early days to today. We've all watched you fail, learn, improve, upgrade, and, flourish. Why would anybody want to poopoo that? Speaking for myself, your progression has personally inspired me to start my own channel. I suck at it right now, but as I've watched you progress, I see a path laid out. I don't have the ambition to take it to your level, but I do intend to continue to improve as I enjoy the outdoors. All that to say, Good For You! Enjoy it. This life is fleeting, and you're living your best one. Here's to more adventures!

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thanks so much!! Do it because you love it!!

[@terrymcguire6478]

Matt, The only thing i envy about KZbinrs is the time to be able to go out whenever and however long and enjoy my rig. And being on the east coast. Need to move back to Colorado.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thank you so much!!

[@1oldarmyguy]

The Jalapeño Cheeto's are also amazing in Chili. And Matt Hater's are gonna hate, you have created a successful YT channel, it takes time and effort that most are not willing to put in. You have a great channel, and produce great content... ignore the haters!! Live your best life...

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Thanks so much!!

[@martynevans3315]

The second cleanest way to eat Cheetos, besides with chopsticks... is poured in chili!

[@miguelrodriguez8937]

💯👍👍

[@michaelptm2269]

Did you do photography before KZbin?

[@Wrongwayadventures]

What diesel heater are you using?

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

It’s by Vevor. Here’s the link. amzn.to/3Fq20f1

[@beypazari4x4]

What drone do you use? It's very nice.

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

DJI Mavic 3 Pro

[@jameswilson1606]

Your wife got some new hanging bags. You talked about it briefly and you seemed to like them but, real didn’t go into any details, like the website or the name of the company. I tried to look them up from what you did say but know luck. I was hoping you’d talk or expand on it. Thanks

[@TheChris1500]

dang they didnt go cheap at all on the give aways, wish i could had stayed sucks i missed it

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

They never do. It's really cool

[@erikphillips6236]

My wife and I recently bought a 2022 Bronco with the Sasquatch package. We live in central Arkansas and was wondering what local off road or overland groups you recommend? Thank you. I appreciate your channel

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Natural State Overland is an awesome group on Facebook.

[@erikphillips6236]

Thank you

[@Tradekraft]

How about chili with cinnamon toast crunch?

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Not so sure about that. 😂

[@MSchumacherfan]

Blinding the drivers with your flashlight 🔦 doesn’t help them

[@AmericanMuscleTruck]

I asolutely do not think any video that I have ever seen sounds like it's coming from rich people. Every champion has a critic. It only made Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson win more 🏆🏆🏆. I canceled TV so I can watch your channel and all of the content has been helpful and entertaining. Now I love my rig setup🤘

[@imbdileva]

People attacking KZbinrs are fricken nuts and jealous freaks. Any of them would trade places with you in a heartbeat. I guess they don't understand perseverance and hard work. Ignore that negativity bullshit!

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

Totally agree!!!

[@joemcgee2918]

Just cut that pink and blue hair crap out, be proud of yourself........

[@OzarkOverlandAdventures]

If you’re going to make a stupid comment revealing how petty and judgmental you are, at least have it make sense. 🤦🏼‍♂️ I am very proud of myself and I have no clue what my hair has to do with it……….. 😂😂😂

[@msubulldogdotcom]

"Don't drive into this tree"... now you tell me!