I'll take maps you shouldn't follow for 500, Alex.

[@MrsMamaSweets]

Happy Veterans Day John! Thank you for your service and as always for your captivating story telling!

[@goodnightmunchie]

It was a pleasure to serve young fella 😉

[@aaronisham9700]

What Mrs mama said

[@Truthseeker0777]

Geuss Mr. Ballen doesn't care.

[@reverendbell2747]

​@@Truthseeker0777yes, how dare he not reply within 20 minutes. 😑

[@BeStupidWithIntent]

@@reverendbell2747 now it’s been 24… unforgivable.

[@The_American_Eagle]

My father spent sooo many years in the Superstition Mountains looking for this exact gold mine, as well as the lost iron door gold mine. It was really nostalgic to hear you discuss this as it brought back many memories of younger me going hiking and expiditioning with my father in search of that mine. Regardless of if my father ever found anything, the time I spent with him doing that was worth more than any of the gold buried there. Ill miss you old man. 1972-2017

[@fuzzykurb]

We'll find it one day

[@andrewsparks4112]

1972?? Casa Grande??

[@22SweetTeaRexes]

I’m sorry for your loss.

[@CamMackay96]

45 is painfully young for a father to die, my condolences.

[@davidarundel6187]

Sorry for your loss , however , your dad wasn't old , by any stretch of imagination - he was still a "spring lamb " , as opposed to hogget or mutton .

[@chrisbaer6548]

I live near the Superstition Mountains. It definitely has something going on up there. Plane crashed not too long ago that had no reason to have crashed according to officials. It is also dubbed the area 51 of Arizona. I have even seen lights move in not normal ways around that mountain.

[@louwilson0906]

That plane crashed because the old pilot didn't set his altimeter correctly before takeoff...so he collided in the cliffs with his young grandson because he was flying too low...sad day for sure.

[@missmelbayer]

​@@louwilson0906 he might have remember they say the mountains and canyon have some kind of magnetic field .

[@ArantyrDarkhand]

Just go there. Hell ive no such places near me. I would totally go do some camping there.

[@galinag.8386]

Probably a ley line

[@dollardelights8953]

I got lost in the superstition mountains with my boyscout troop. A few notes, there are parts of those mountains that are magnetized. Your compass will spin in there. The walls of the rock formation close you in and prevent you from seeing landmarks. It looks similar to any other range in AZ until you get in the middle of it. There are rivers that spill out of that mountain range. Thats how you find your way out... if the flash floods dont get you.

[@blankistblankophobe9078]

I lived in southern AZ for a couple years and i know several guys who go into the Superstitions regularly to either prospect for minerals or search for the Lost Dutchman. Thankfully, none of them have died there, but all of them have stories of finding bodies, abandoned campsites, or bones all over the range.

[@douglasmatheson403]

WOW!! Thats pretty cool

[@jeaha2656]

People where I live have a big believe that some humans long ago would go to hide their treasure and then after that do a deal with an entity ( a jinn , ghost or anything like that ) to protect it for them , anyone that tries to take it would face that entity and then die to it , investigations for missing people near so called treasure would be very much like this story , a person looking for a treasure goes to it and when he or she are close to finding it they would die and the police only finds the dead body with natural cause of death , ofc that entity took something in return to that favor but we will never know what they asked for

[@justinwalker4475]

that's exactly what i would expect to find o0

[@sttuuddeerr]

Been back in there myself a couple times It's very eerie and very hot.

[@TT-rk7pw]

I’ve only gone out there 3x & can only assume there’s a high incidence rate-it’s so easy to get lost in that terrain & the amount of water you need to carry insane. I happened upon a barely-living person, gave her the last drops of my water, ran to the campground, filled up, ran back to her, then ran to find a ranger. This was after 6+ hours out, while I was dehydrated myself despite drinking >1L/h & wanted nothing more than to get off my feet. She was 100% unprepared, and I wanted to scream at her in frustration tbh. I didn’t ofc, but people need to respect how extreme nature can be. It’s amazing I even heard her trying to call out.

[@prestopoem2983]

It’s always a good day when a strange, dark and mysterious video comes out

[@MrBallen]

🙌🙌🙌

[@Alison-W]

Yes

[@coryshaw7810]

Came out a day early too!

[@juleslynn476]

Yes!!!

[@22QXX112]

​@@MrBallenHappy Veterans Day Mr Ballen. And thank you for your service. Your amazing dude.

[@doreenpower7038]

Happy Veterans Day John! Thank you for your service. Thank you also for your amazing stories. All the best to you and your family ❤️

[@RealKylegaming]

Completely stolen

[@DampRaccoon]

Agree. On my birthday, I ignore all wishes after the first. What are they thinking?

[@chrisemerson7743]

“Completely stolen” and “what are they thinking”! What are yall talking about?

[@momoftwo7701]

Y'all!!!! I live in the foothills of Superstition Mountain. Unbelievably beautiful and my 15 yer old son and hubby are convinced they can find The Lost Dutchman Mine! I think the gold was found long ago and the smart finder kept their trap shut!

[@terraincognita9614]

I live in Mesa, have been on one of the hiking trails at the base/side of the Superstition Mts, I see them from the 60 all the time, they creep me out for some reason 😂

[@ModernWelfare_]

It’s no doubt in government possession already.

[@gbosearcher-3686]

A long time family friend grew up in the shadows of the Superstitions. He thought the same thing. That the gold was found years ago and the finder never said a thing.

[@vf5536]

@@ModernWelfare_Can’t let the peasants find it.

[@sp4zz7ic-Official]

I live in Arizona and Ive heard of this map. legend has it that only at a certain time of day while the sun is setting the sunlight will bounce through hole in a rock and illuminate a entrance the mine. The mine has gold veins visible when the sun is aimed into the mine - My family had 2 brothers back in 1800s, when they found a major gold mine out there one brother stayed at the mine and one went back to the town to purchase the mine claim. He went back and murdered his brother and tried to kill off anyone in the family that had any idea where the mine was. This is why they say the gold is haunted, its just death that follows. people kill eachother to keep them mine location secret and then end up becoming victim to greed/the mountain.

[@amsol77]

Interesting, Archeoastronomy is so fascinating

[@lachie8784]

my theory for the story was that someone found the mine already and sought to protect the riches while they were being extracted, so people who came near would be executed or scared away.

[@byronwooten1303]

lol think youre thinking of moria

[@goldilocks913]

@@lachie8784l saw a documentary about exactly that, think it was called Scooby Doo 😂

[@solandri69]

The position of the sun at sunset changes throughout the year. So if there really was a place where sunlight from the setting sun would go through a hole in a rock and illuminate a mine entrance, it would only happen 2x per year (or 1x if it's during a solstice). Meaning you couldn't just go exploring any random time and find it. You'd have to know what day(s) it was supposed to happen and go on those specific days. Kinda surprised that someone educated enough to become a veterinarian, wouldn't have figured this out while researching the legend.

[@ayanbarua2400]

Despite having a huge fan base, I am glad that Mr. Ballen is still so humble and thanking his fan followers. Kudos. Keep up the good work.

[@AmritDillon]

It's almost like you want him to be arrogant😂😂

[@ayanbarua2400]

@@AmritDillon so many other youtubers are not like him. That's why.

[@Vinkel_10]

Humble? The algorithm says to do those things. He’s just working the systems steps. He don’t give a shit about you lol

[@chrisemerson7743]

@@Vinkel_10actually I think your wrong dude! Is that how you feel about everybody you don’t know? That they don’t give a shit?

[@booboomagoo1305]

The arm workout this guy pulls in every story is next level.

[@debbiemurray1496]

💯 yes he's very animated but I listen to his narrations and I think the energy he gives helps with the entertainment factor. His story telling is always interesting. I hope he doesn't feel the need to change a thing. Happy Holidays ⛄🎈🎂

[@FRANK45CASTLE]

He was a seal, one thing I know from my time in the service was, that if your getting a good story or briefing. Your going yo see an animated person saying it and, you will always see some knife hands thrown in. Mr.Ballen is a master of the knife hand lol.

[@debbiemurray1496]

@@FRANK45CASTLE , Yes sir. Absolute facts. THANK you for your service 🙏🏻🇺🇸💯

[@aesaehttr]

I take it you don't watch Scotty Kilmer

[@FreelancerFreak]

Speaking with your arms is one of the oldest form of communication. We're naturally drawn to it. 😊

[@MrDsturman]

You are by far one of the most loved and respected KZbinrs! You deserve all the success you worked hard for it! Thank you for providing a voice of comfort.

[@brendatomlinson]

Thank you for your service, John in defending our country, and in entertaining all of us as well.

[@DeanneHopley]

I recently watched an interview where John admits that he doesn't really know what to say when people thank him for his service - pretty humble guy I would say 🙏

[@desperadox7565]

Defending?🤮🤮🤮

[@ShrodingersHat]

​@@desperadox7565Being a sh*tty person? 🤮🤮🤢🤢

[@furanduron4926]

The banks should thank them as well.

[@desperadox7565]

@@DeanneHopley Humble? Maybe he just isn't proud of what he did.

[@stasisDOE]

Arizona native here. I’ve been out in the Superstition Mountains and can attest to how absolutely creepy it is out there. Thanks for another awesome story and happy Veterans Day to you. Appreciate all you have done for our country and all you continue to do!

[@kjeracarroll450]

They give off a creepy feeling when there! They are gorgeous but man are they creepy! I’m a native too!

[@jro341]

Thanks for the heads up. Not native but live up north now. Not from cali.

[@diffgendiffgen]

Skinwalker central forsure

[@b-bopeddie1290]

No there not creepy people like you who are over zealous about lot of the BS. ..

[@kjeracarroll450]

@@b-bopeddie1290it’s an opinion, you just happen to not have the same one 🙄

[@nellafay5485]

MrBallen is so humble. That too is another quality he carries.❤❤❤❤❤

[@chrisemerson7743]

I’m pretty sure that’s a major reason he’s so popular! People feel like we know him and can trust him.

[@jacobpettes335]

I appreciate that MrBallen keeps this channel going, as well as posting free podcast episodes for those of us fans who can't afford many subscriptions.

[@sam.laaaay]

He really is the best!!

[@kiwidubz]

God loves you. If you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. It's the greatest free gift you could ever possibly receive 🎁🙏👍

[@cherrymetha3185]

That is NOT John Ballen posting his free podcasts on You Tube . That You Tube channel belongs to someone else .

[@kimberlyshepherd270]

It's a scammer doing that! Not Mr. Ballen!! Many of us report these scammers and they've been taken down a few times, but they still show up. Anyone who supports scammers taking from and profits off Mr. Ballen is not a true fan of the real Mr. Ballen !!!💯 Just like the what's app scams that show up in the comment section

[@labla8940]

@@kimberlyshepherd270 Oh my god what a little snitchy little girl lighten up. Those people aren't subcribed and will never subscribe. He has a contract he is not getting cheated. See him plug another guy thats the corporation talking not him. He is bought and paid for, they own him

[@missmissy_90]

I absolutely LOVE that John used time generally paid advertising on his own new ventures. But what he said out loud I knew all on my own. John will never forget that we, his fans and how he started out. No matter how high his business ventures go he will always come back and give us a story. I wish him all the best and to go as far as he can go. John B Allen, you are adored. Thank you for all you bring us. ❤️

[@zizotv5587]

Am from Kenya and I've watched each and every video on this channel...more than once

[@serenity6415]

I hiked around the Superstition mountains a few years ago and I've never felt so at home. The whole area is gorgeous and I can't wait to get back. The desert felt so at peace.

[@björkmou5e]

Grew up in a Navajo/Yavapai community. The moment he started whistling at night, I knew he was screwed.

[@ambrosia-venusbelladonna835]

@Mou5eketeer Please do tell! What exactly do you mean? Does whistling at night in the Superstitious Mountains attract predators? What are the key rules of your community to safely navigating a place such as this?

[@jkk4657]

Same as being in Appalachia

[@björkmou5e]

@@jkk4657 Funnily enough, Appalachia is where I spent the next leg of American life and yup, dead on. All you need do is like, stand in a field while *being* Appalachian and someone’s like “that bish definitely casting spells, she looked right at me!”. Heaven forbid you’re wearing any kind of loose fabrics in a light breeze. My Welsh friends report something identical.

[@mckaylawallace4547]

was looking to see if anyone mentioned this because the second i heard whistling i knew

[@björkmou5e]

@@mckaylawallace4547 Good to see your spiritual instincts intact, cuz that's how the witches getcha!

[@ilovemybuddythunder]

Thank you for your service John! Both as a seal and an incredible story teller! Happy veterans day!!

[@goodnightmunchie]

According to bidenomics he might be called back to duty 😢

[@lorrainearmstrong7587]

Fuck your 'Bidenomics' @@goodnightmunchie . I live in CANADA

[@Mayo_cnt]

Can we just thank this man for being able to stand in the hot desert with no water or food, and telling this amazing story.

[@mohammedaliyu1437]

😂

[@rado_grami]

what?

[@sweetz187]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@paigearguello6526]

And didn’t even break a sweat 🙏🏼

[@timeforcoffee485]

🤣🤣🤣

[@paigebarker1468]

Happy Veterans Day, John, thank you for your service! 🇺🇸 and of course, thank you for your continuous supply of entertainment!! You've definitely found your calling and we are here for it!

[@latigomorgan]

A friend of my Dad's told me about his venture into the Superstitions to search for the treasure with a group of other men in or around 1981. They rode in on horseback and brought legal automatic weapons with them, as they had all heard the stories of people being shot at. They also bribed a helicopter pilot to deliver supplies to them deep in the mountains where they were searching. This was a big deal, because at that time there was a flight ban on aircraft over the area. To make a long story short, these men, who were armed to the teeth with legal full auto weapons got so spooked they fled the mountains and abandoned all the mining equipment the helicopter had dropped off for them. And, it was a hair raising story he told me, too. What was really freaky is that something came over the group and they almost killed one another, but abandoned the quest before they did so. As soon as they got out of the mountains, they felt normal again. I asked him if they ever went back for the equipment? He told me he couldn't be paid enough to ever go back into those mountains.

[@valethewolf49]

That's wild!! It was a no fly zone?? That's very interesting and adds even more mystery to this tale. ThankYou for sharing Your father's story. I'm going to have to go read about this area now, very curious.

[@loslakers530]

So whats the full story?

[@UnkyJosh420]

It would be nice to have the full story.

[@aocg1914]

Easy.. There are high natural radiation spikes, and that can make people go mad.. Thats why if there is a mine there, it would be very dangerous area..

[@UnkyJosh420]

@@aocg1914 maybe that’s why the people before all left or abandoned the venture. Nobody wants their brain microwaved. Could you explain how radiation like that could come from natural sources like that?

[@fun2916]

I was a member of the Maricopa County Sheriff’s posse search and rescue team for roughly 10 years. I’ve been on numerous rescue operations into and around the Superstition Mountains. Weirdest thing I saw out there was light orbs that I couldn’t explain. One of the deputies I worked with said he heard a rumor that the gold was found by some unsavory individual and there was an assault and even a killing as a result of the search for the gold. The individual who found the gold apparently used explosives to find it. He stated The sheriffs office has the case listed as “law enforcement sensitive” and won’t talk about it or release any information.

[@mikeyaz8817]

Did you by chance work for MCSO during the Khayman Welch search in 2020 in the superstition mountains? Last l heard he was still missing.

[@fun2916]

⁠@@mikeyaz8817I was not part of the posse in 2020. I took a break and did some relief work overseas. Due to covid I was not able to return until 2022 and resumed my work as a posse member.

[@nenep1872]

Anything else interesting you saw out there...

[@fun2916]

@@nenep1872yeah, dudes cooking meth and east side of weavers needle I saw light orbs circling around it while using night vision

[@nightmaremotorsandbuilds]

What do you think about this

[@MissAliciaMariee]

My best friend and I live 1,500 miles apart. We always watch your videos and instantly call each other about them. In 5 days she is flying down to Arizona to celebrate our back to back birthdays. I have planned a surprise day at the Supersitions for her birthday. I cannot even believe you posted this video at the time you did! This is amazing!

[@kl9045]

Happy birthday 🎉

[@louwilson0906]

So how did your trip to the Superstition Mountains go? What month did you visit and how hot was it that day? Hope all went well. I live in Apache Junction that's built just west of those mountains.

[@jodiestarks556]

I love that you use real photos of the people and places as often as possible, and that you do caption it as a “real photo” or “not a real photo”!!

[@clarkosteo]

Nice touch adding the little footprints. I’m an Arizona native and stories of “the little people” here are truly frightening.

[@MikeGervasi]

I watched your interview on "Coffee" and I found some of it upsetting. As a 10 year Navy vet with an uncle who was a Seal for 35 years, I want to say that you served with Honor, shed blood for this country, and are honorable in your life after your service, Jon. You've done well and we are grateful for the entertainment you provide us.

[@debbiemurray1496]

,💯💯💯💪🏻🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸💪🏻🙏🏻‼️

[@Don.M.]

What was upsetting?

[@fluffymrbunnx3585]

@@Don.M.I would assume it’s because John talks about how his early internet content was largely based on first hand experience in the seals. It’s a sort of unwritten rule that you don’t talk about that stuff once you’re out except with other seals so when he started telling stories about it the seal community shunned him and don’t want anything to do with him anymore even guys who he served with.

[@fortnitetrashcan8308]

@@fluffymrbunnx3585 for being called tough navy seals sound quite like crybabies

[@geechyguy3441]

They’re just dicks like lots of military folks - I knew guys in the marines who were a similar way. Since Ballen got medically discharged some of his friends were still in service when he was posting about his experiences. That changes your thoughts on it when you’re in the middle of the shit still. Once you get out it’s completely different though and I’m sure they’ll end up doing the same on their instagrams

[@TokyoTerrors]

Happy Veteran’s Day, John! Thank you for your service to our country. Also, I absolutely adore your storytelling skills! Each story from you gets me hooked and always waiting for what will happen next

[@ranrajmirsen6887]

How did you go from being a Navy SEAL to becoming this massively successful story teller? Like seriously, you're a special person.

[@striving_ALONE]

He has a separate video about that ,but its way back covid lockdown .

[@benvsreality]

I don't know if links are allowed in the comments here, so search "From Navy SEAL to SCARY KZbinr" in this channel and his background video should come up.

[@sttuuddeerr]

Navy SEALs are a special breed.

[@luludee1300]

The Iced Coffee Hour Podcast recently interviewed him. Just listened to it myself.

[@amyamy2673]

Yes . I can’t believe it

[@amandasmith6175]

This was posted over a month ago, just have to say, I’ve camped at the base of this mountain several times over my short 35 years. Lost Dutchman state park. The most recent being my 17th birthday. There’s nothing particularly creepy about being there, other than the flash floods and thunderstorms, which seemingly come from thin air, the plentiful flying “bugs”, and the feeling of being watched from a million different directions at once. Great family fun.

[@blueberryloaf]

No matter how good the stories are, you can’t enjoy them unless the story tellers voice isn’t annoying to you. Mr. Ballen’s voice is so soothing to me that I can listen to him all day and not get sick of hearing his voice.

[@bernadine6695]

After I started listening to Mr ballen I can't listen to anyone else bc their voices just aren't right😂

[@arthurmorgan7086]

@@bernadine6695It’s not about the voice it’s his way of telling a story. There is many more soothing voices but nobody tells a story like him

[@relicgalaxy]

Dont ever think you'll wanna be annoyed and scared at the same time, but if you do, listen to whatlurksbeneath. Or just dont.

[@charliek2077]

​@@arthurmorgan7086 Two comments above yours literally say that it IS about his voice, for them.

[@arthurmorgan7086]

@@charliek2077 That’s great. And I’m telling you that his voice is just standard! Now dry your eyes and relax

[@daisi4925]

Happy Veterans Day John, words can never say how much you service men and veterans mean to me.

[@lindashay8605]

Happy Veteran's Day, Mr. Ballen. Thank you for your service! And thanks for providing these videos for us, you are the ultimate storyteller!

[@pennyp7382]

Happy isn't the right word.

[@KOOLBadger]

We love you John Allen. Im glad you survived. Im glad you have millions of viewers!❤

[@OOHyouwish]

I live about 20 minutes away from the Superstitions and have hiked to the top of Flat Iron (a must do if you’re in the area and have hiking experience). If you do Flat Iron i recommend camping up top for the night. A beautiful mountain range that is cursed by the Natives. Expert hikers have gotten lost on numerous trails and needed airlift, a lot of explorers that go for the Lost Dutchman treasure go missing, and a few planes have crashed unexpectedly into that mountain over time..the most recent being in June (literally so many and it’s common). It’s an absolutely captivating and beautiful mountain range that also gives you the chills when looking at it, like one of those “you must respect me”. My husband and I got lost on one of the base trails that didn’t even go towards the mountains (there are numerous trails at the base) and we are experienced hikers. It shouldn’t have happened as we hike every weekend but when it happened we were both “lost and dazed”. I can see why more experienced hikers need search and rescue during the winter on very well know trails, but not at the same time (it’s weird to define). Everyone knows the trails and difficulty of the Superstitions There’s a small museum at the base in Apache Junction that displays so many drawings of maps or artifacts from explorers trying to locate the treasure over time (at least 100 years). The chapel at the base of these mountains is now a museum due to Elvis Presley filming his movie there. It’s literally called “The Elvis Chapel”. It’s a tourist trap for snowbirds which isn’t far down the road from Goldfield Ghost Town (abort and do not go for the day unless you like touristy things to do).

[@glennrishton5679]

I was thinking aside from the supernatural , the strange dark and mysterious aspects that area looks to have it's own very natural dangers.

[@stanley3895]

Cool. Thanks for sharing this.

[@DarkJuliet_4444]

​@@glennrishton5679They truly are beautiful mountains. Thats the thing about many things in the desert they can be more dangerous than they seem at first glance. How many snowbirds and hikers have to be rescued from the mountains each year?

[@bbangel9046]

My nephew got married there in 2020. It was absolutely beautiful but as night fell you could almost feel that the area had a presence. It was majestic and creepy at the same time. Such an amazing experience.

[@Raevon22]

I live in east AJ. I have most beautiful view out my windows.

[@aa.mirezZ]

The Superstitious mountains has so much lore and different stories- I think it would be so cool if you would consider doing an ongoing series that covers the lore behind them and the many stories that can be told from those who adventures there. I think you’re storytelling is so good, I would love to hear the lore behind the mountains as told by you lol. Now about this specific story- I have a theory the Doctor was being stalked (maybe not so much by the supernatural ) by another treasure hunter, and when that person realized he had a map and was on to something, and then the next day when he led him right to the spot I think the guy killed the doctor and ran off with the treasure, and wrote that note in the checkbook.

[@skalandic]

That theory makes so much sense I like where your head is at

[@Eireann.]

Good theory. Maybe them cowboys were up to no good

[@lesleychapman4678]

Nice thinking!! Look at MrBallen's early stuff on "The missing 411" books by David Paulidies (about strange disappearances and other phenomena that are widespread in ALL national parks worldwide) He did them quite a while ago now, maybe 2/3 years, but it was what led me to follow him in everything he has done since. He is one of the most inspirational men I have ever come across and love everything he does. You will too if you delve into his earlier stuff. Much love to you. x

[@alstinson]

OH SHIT THIS SOUNDS LIKE A MASSIVE TOPIC TO GET INTO, THIS EPISODE REALLY IS A RABBITHOLE. MY CAPSLOCK IS JAMMED.

[@WhatTheWHAT524]

​@@lesleychapman4678Yes! I LOVE ALL the "missing 411" stories so very much. They are so interesting and intriguing to begin with but made 1000 times better when told my MrBallen!!

[@treehuggingcatlover2586]

Happy Veterans Day John! You have done amazing things since you got out and you are still serving your fellow man through your nonprofit and amazing story telling talent! Thanks. Many Blessings in your future....

[@lynnejolley9195]

I’d like to say hi to you John but also your wife, she sounds amazing as I’ve just watched an interview of you and your wife is amazing for loving you so much she stayed with you through everything! That’s unconditional love…❤

[@NbaYoungBoyLilBrudda]

Ahhhh What a Great Rainy Day to drop 🖤Thank For Your service Mr.Ballen you fought for our Country and you still till this day Help me out with your stories

[@TheSwedishLuna]

Happy Veterans Day. My grandfather was an Operation Desert Storm veteran. Unfortunately we lost him due to cancer in 2020. As such I remember him by just having respect for the others that served. Same with firefighters because he was also a volunteer firefighter.

[@BridgetOShea-y5t]

The Superstitions are my favorite place to hike, and I love them precisely because they're so freaky!! The vibe inside those mountains is truly indescribable. One time I swore the walls in the canyons were talking to me. And no, I wasn't on drugs at the time, which makes it even more real and believable for me. I only lived in the Phoenix valley for a short time, but I still go back there once or twice a year. And I always go back to hiking the 'Supes. Not to find gold and get rich. I believe there lies a much more ancient magnetism in these mountains. It's a truly otherworldly place!!

[@richardheudorf2245]

Lived here since 82 and have hiked the Superstition dozens of times. Never heard them called 'the Supe'

[@sharnnellspivey7250]

I'm so happy for you, your family and team! I literally wait until you have a few videos before I watch them. I love the way you tell stories, the sponsors messages you do and the fact that you bow in the beginning while talking it's always my favorite! Wish you much much success!

[@vectorvisioneye]

Your stories sound so good when you act it out on video as well! I still watch some of your older stories too, and honestly, they don't get old. I love watching your vids, they really just bring out the excitement and curiosity in me, thank you. By the way, happy Veterans Day to you!! and all the hard work and confidence you put into protecting and serving America.😄😁👍👍

[@jeffreybrunette-lb1dy]

Happy Veterans Day to you MrBallen. Please remember as you make these partnerships, our love is for you and the way you present yourself as the narrator. It’s one of a kind. Some of us are from the beginning, watching your brand grow. Don’t give your name sake away to others narrators who are also good. We come to you because you aren’t them.

[@oxlip]

well put

[@joec.9591]

Great tale, John, as always! The Superstitions are astoundingly beautiful but one can easily get lost in the many twisting canyons. I've hiked there several times, and it can, indeed, be a seriously unsettling place.

[@MrTribalsun]

why unsettling place? why do you say that?

[@audiotech-v7t]

So glad you have slowed down. You look so much healthier now and so happy. God bless.

[@TaraTiaraBell]

I will never grow tired of listening to mr Ballens stories, thank you so much John for the videos and podcasts ❤

[@BryanManzo-o7x]

Happy Veterans Day John! Thank you for your service. We the continued support you provide the community through your foundation and stories.

[@midnightharvest3065]

Thank you for your service John and the fantastic storytelling

[@desperadox7565]

For invading sovereign countries against international treaties and conventions?

[@tenabarnes3269]

@desperadox but if your party told you tomorrow or as if in the instance of Ukraine or Gaza we need to support that war, you remain totally silent and in agreement, all war is bad, except a war in your own country.

[@midnightharvest3065]

@@desperadox7565 War goes both ways. I support our troops because they signed up for defending our country and I respect that. Unless you are going to do it then I will gladly ask you to keep your comments to yourself

[@desperadox7565]

@@midnightharvest3065 The thing is, they are NOT defending your country. That's just a narrative the people in power tell the naive and gullible citizens. You can't cite one case where your military defended America against a real threat since WWII. (And don't try the "war" against terrorism. The countries you attacked where not responsible for 9/11 and the Saudis are still your valued business partners.

[@beltontisdale1019]

Thank you so much for telling this story. I know a lot of people dig the true crime stories, but these are the ones I made me fall in love with your channel: spooky stories set out in the wilderness. So good! I am curious though, how do you know the details concerning Dr. Ruth's last days on earth, especially his last moments? I know a lot of it is put there for dramatic effect, but so much is conveyed after he was alone. Did he keep a journal?

[@ElijahCinco51484]

John makes everyone’s week, and we all know he deserves way more subscribers

[@goodnightmunchie]

He should have a give away maybe a F1 50 like the twins 😐

[@JesterMCL]

I agree, and you deserve more likes for this comment! 😊👍 John/ Mr.ballen is absolutely amazing! 🤩🫶❤️

[@ElijahCinco51484]

Thx man, he does so much for his fans

[@lorrainearmstrong7587]

You assume that he has the money to BUY an F150 @@goodnightmunchie . Pay attention to what things COST that you pay for

[@vannahmae7413]

Nah , u ain’t a real one if ur just worried about materialistics. Grow up and show some support to those who work hard to entertain us

[@garymartin8126]

God bless you and your family for your hard work and sacrifice/dedication defending our nation. Secondly thank you for your hard work and God given talent in storytelling that means so much much to me, my family and all who have been rewarded with your talent!!!

[@alpo27]

Watched you on a podcast recently and really enjoyed learning more about your story. You're an amazing person! Can't wait to see all the cool content Ballen Studios creates!

[@relfyem]

Forty full time employees?! Wow! Well done John. There was me thinking it was still you and your Mum! Really brilliant. I'm so pleased for you. :)

[@karenstarr]

How did anyone know about what happened to the doctor if he was the only one there? The eyes watching him, the strange sounds he heard, and the explosion. He was by himself.

[@stevephillips7264]

Thank you!!!

[@Krlja]

I scrolled down to the comments to see if anyone wondered the same thing, or if i missed a part of the story. No matter how i try to rationalize it, there's no way for anyone could have known most of the stuff that he went through, especially those last parts about turning around and hearing the explosion before it being too late lol I guess it's just a spooky made up story, that people kept adding bits to as time went on, and truth would probably be the most obvious one - an old, weak geezer, with no knowledge on how to survive, dying to weather conditions, hunger, accidental injury or coyotes.

[@Stelos-]

@Skilluh Well the guy did exist, he was dropped off there looking for the treasure, he was shot in the head and his check book was found with that writing in it. Truthfully though, that is all we know, everything else is filler.

[@oraleholmes1263]

Hahaha😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂...

[@manuelcorrea2365]

Maybe he wrote down about the eyes watching him at night on his notebook. With respect to the explosion, that's definitely made up, or maybe what he assumes was the last thing Dr Ruth heard before being shot in the head.

[@roccitycrew3887]

I hope you had a wonderful Veterans Day today John! You're an inspiration for me, and knowing your story helps me believe that I can make it through the crappy situation I'm in. Thank you on many levels bro. I appreciate it.

[@ElegantPotatoes]

John, a sincere thank you from all of us for your service! You're a real life hero. Thank you for blessing us with another great video.

[@holsteinmilker]

Thanks Mr. Ballen for so many good stories and spreading kindness and goodwill in an uplifting manner accessible to everyone. Keep up the good work brother!

[@thelinnanes]

I really enjoy listening to you telling these stories, and how invested and animated you get.....so exciting!!!

[@erinwillard1042]

Happy Veterans day John and every other person who has served our country!!! We owe you ALL so much more than we can ever repay!!!!!

[@shaungomez9898]

Happy Veterans Day Mr.Ballen I salute your service for your sacrifice and as well as sacrificing and dedicating your time to serving the KZbin community for your strange, dark and mysterious content!

[@TuzeTea]

I meant to go to sleep 3 hours ago and kept saying "just one more MrBallen video" ... now it's 6am 😴

[@WillVroo]

as someone from arizona who frequently kayaks and hikes near the superstition mountains, ive always known about the lost dutchman stories. im so surprised but glad to see it getting covered here! I love the scary stories from the area but i have never felt or experienced any of that stuff myself. Lots of people here saying they felt bad or off vibes there lol, i think they just went with the idea that bad things were there. Its a breathtaking area with so many gorgeous views and amazing wildlife. Ive seen mountain goats, horses, bobcats, bald eagles, and more all around the superstition and salt river area. Ive never felt any “off” or “bad vibes” any of my dozens of trips to the area. So while the stories about it are super fun and interesting, dont let them deter you from visiting an absolutely stunning part of Arizona!

[@desertrat7634]

If you have never heard the stories, there is nothing creepy about being our there. Then again, I've heard the stories and don't find it creepy being out there. Treat all stretches of desert with respect it deserves and you'll be fine.

[@jeaha2656]

People where I live have a big believe that some humans long ago would go to hide their treasure and then after that do a deal with an entity ( a jinn , ghost or anything like that ) to protect it for them , anyone that tries to take it would face that entity and then die to it , investigations for missing people near so called treasure would be very much like this story , a person looking for a treasure goes to it and when he or she are close to finding it they would die and the police only finds the dead body with natural cause of death , so people that go for the view or to explore are often left to live and won't be bothered

[@nenep1872]

Just be careful... there's a reason it's called superstition mountains... I'm sure it definitely is beautiful though

[@desertrat7634]

@@nenep1872 yup, because people have a lot of superstitions about the place. You do know the definition of superstition, right?

[@jenniferlopez1073]

I agree!! I hiked by myself there, I got more weird vibes near Sedona

[@lisahinton9682]

I've lived in Arizona for 11 years and have hiked the Superstitious Mountains a few times. I'm never relaxed in there, and I tend to cut my hikes short and high-tail it out of there. Thanks for this, John. As always, you told this so well and I enjoyed it very much!

[@eyden1562]

Honestly, I found this channel partway into 2020 and I've watched it blow up from a humble 500k, all the way up to the multimillion sub channel. And I couldn't be happier for our Main Man!! Seriously, SUCH a job well done, SUCH an amazing person (& family), who does so much for his community and fellow Vets. As a total stranger and an avid watcher, I am SO proud of MrBallen!! So, so deserved. And to top it all off, on this here Veteran's Day, thank you for your service!!! 🤝 & all the work you've done since.

[@aubryellaotero1064]

Happy Veteran’s Day, Mr. Ballen, thank you for your service for this country and also for sharing these spooky stories with us each week! You truly are my favorite story teller.

[@desperadox7565]

Thanking him for bullying 3rd world countries? That's nothing to be proud of.

[@anthonyhackman6720]

@@desperadox7565and you’ve never done anything worth being thanked for. So go back to your closet.

[@maxgeorge1463]

@@desperadox7565 that’s the fault of the government not the infantry. If you had any resemblance of intelligence, you would have realized this.

[@CaillouThePimp]

@@desperadox7565Get a grip dude

[@jkrosinger3293]

I agree 100% !! He soomehow managed to cure my depressions by listening to his stories i Love it and Love to All of you scarystorylisteners 🫶

[@dallashalsey]

Mr. Baller love watching your videos… may never have served this country like you, however I believe the highest and the lowest members of all branches of our military should respect and admire your success… in my opinion you never needed to serve to get the love and respect of so many people… enjoy watching your content. God bless!

[@Nae_aka_toras_wifey]

This story gave me headless valley vibes, from people searching for treasure down to the police brushing off the obvious murder. Great storytelling as always Mr. Ballen ❤️

[@MrBallen]

Thank you!!

[@marianaduran6898]

The historian that tells the history, said the headless are in fact in back of superstions mountains. The tall ones formed the front..

[@case8037]

Happy Veterans day Mr. Ballen!! I am forever grateful for you & out other vets! Appreciate all you've done & all you continue to do!

[@gr8fuldeb699]

Happy Veterans Day. Thank you so much for your service. We are lucky to have had you as a soldier for us 🫡 And thank you for this channel. You deserve all this good stuff.

[@chadlipps]

We love you John You are an Amazing story teller! I am proud of you and your growth. You are one of the only pod caster that would actually respond to my comments, and coraspond with me. I appreciated your time and believe this is one of the reasons you have become so successful. Along with the amazing stories and keeping your listeners on the edge of their seats.

[@chelseykimrey5848]

Never been this early before! Always a better day with a story from Mr Ballen 😍 Thank you and your team for all the hard work you all do! Keep up the great work we love it! :)

[@MrBallen]

Thank you so much! ❤

[@larryhullinger4141]

​​@@MrBallenthis video really touched home My grampa lived in Bisbee and made a few trips into the superstition mountains looking for the Dutchman mine He obviously never found it lol

[@ShrodingersHat]

Happy Veterans Day, John. Thank you for your service and for your stories ❤😊

[@bbkuk1798]

Currently on my 4th and final week offshore on an oil rig, I’m going through a bad break up, miss my family and got a lot going on. You have no idea how much your videos help distract me from my stress for a little while. Thank you Mr Ballen.

[@A.Girl.Has.No.Name.]

Hang in there. Every day is a day closer to seeing your family, and youtube will keep you company until then! 😊

[@bbkuk1798]

@@A.Girl.Has.No.Name. thank you, each day is getting easier, and youtube certainly does help!

[@scarlettroger1508]

Just one more week until you see your family!🎉 I’m sorry about your breakup. I’m going through that too so I know where you’re coming from. But things will get so much better for you, I’m sure of it. Take care.

[@bbkuk1798]

@@scarlettroger1508 thank you! I hope your healed soon too!

[@brendastier8605]

Just reading thru the comments and ran across yours. It’s been 8 months, so are you feeling better? I’ve been watching for days and days to distract me from what I’m going through, so I know how much it helps pass the time. Anyway, wishing you happiness. Take care. 😊

[@ramnathnayak113]

I visited your website and absolutely love it. I absolutely love the design of it - the font, colour scheme, composition - amazingly done. It makes you get engrossed in the "SDM" world that you build in your stories.

[@thefeachaz]

Rodney Barnes is an absolute legend, it's amazing you're working with him. This guy wrote and produced for Boondocks and Everybody Hates Chris. Just incredible.

[@sabrinafelber]

Thank you John for your stories and your service. Happy Veterans Day!

[@fmc974]

From "3, 4, even 5 times a week" to where you are now has been a fantastically strange, dark and mysterious - and awesome - journey. Thanks for all the amazing stories along the way. Congrats on all your new endeavors. Looking forward to what the future holds. 👻😱 Happy Veterans Day!! 🇺🇸

[@Mrs.LadeyBug]

He does really awesome podcasts too!!

[@fmc974]

@@Mrs.LadeyBug Oh, for sure! I really like the new Medical Mysteries.

[@fmc974]

@rachelvroman2727 I miss it too, but he's churning out so much awesome new stuff. I think it's pretty cool that he still does YT mainly because he wants to stay loyal to his fans that have been with him from the start. I really like the new Medical Mysteries podcast, and it's not exclusive to Amazon. I've been listening to it on Spotify.

[@Dreamwalker-bu1lq]

You tell such horrific stories but your voice is calming

[@jasonjuneau2948]

Crazy how much your channel has blown up in 3 years. But it's the stories and the way you tell them that keeps bring people in. 👍

[@brianhays1797]

You can’t just listen to Mr. Ballen, you have to watch him talk for the full effect of his great story telling. Happy Veterans Day John!

[@susangraham6801]

Tell me about it!! I want so bad to listen to the podcasts, but you lose so much without the "overly dramatic" hand and head gestures! I absolutely LOVE Mrballen! ❤

[@sabrinafelber]

If you watch enough of his videos, you can see him in your minds eye doing all the gestures while you get to do other things like work as well.

[@KhanMann66]

Part of the reason why I so why he redo some of his podcast on KZbin. The pictures and hand gestures his videos so worth watching.

[@elliotpalais6190]

​@@susangraham6801I completely agree.

[@anitanoecker2569]

Umm, no.

[@JTW_R818]

I grew up near the superstitions in a mining town. Man it’s no joke. One guy from Europe went into the desert alone without water when I was a kid. I remember my Grandpa having to go look for him to find him on his horse. Wild stuff man

[@timmyo3162]

Looking forward to Run Fool. Been following several years now. Love every story. Thank you.

[@cell673]

These are the stories I been missing. Like your very first stories you released a scared story about something in the woods. Would love to see more of these again!

[@futonclutch5040]

In the UK, today is our day of Remembrance for all those who fought and died in past wars. Glad you got through it all to tell us your stories... and thank you for your service, Mrballen.

[@elkhunter8664]

Today in the U.S. we are observing Veterans Day honoring all veterans past and present. Our Memorial Day for fallen veterans is observed in May. Fly your nations flag proudly in remembrance.

[@geraldinemurray6653]

A beautiFUL day for all!😃 👍 remembrance Sunday.

[@glennrishton5679]

You probably know the origin of why we both celebrate on the same day but I will tell anyway for those who havent heard the reason. It is the date of the signing of the Armistice ending fighting of World War I on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month So November 11th.

[@annsanders1494]

​@apollionsacrezleonard People are doing that same garbage in the united states. Not sure they're actually Hamas, they just back them and approve of them.

[@vill9516]

Happy Veterans Day John. Thank you for your service and for the entertainment! As always, great job and proud of you!

[@GinaDAuria]

Is it ANY wonder we love, love, love this guy ?????❤❤❤❤

[@tjzambonischwartz]

I spent a huge part of my childhood walking around in the mountains in this video. One of my favorite places on earth. There's nothing evil about it.

[@jacobmartinelli7496]

i needed to hear that. thank you. against my best sense of judgement, i still take scary stories seriously.

[@DiodeMom]

Party pooper 😂🤣

[@kitecorbin3914]

Same thing as what they say about the Appalachian mountains. I've spent my entire life swimming in the creeks, camping up so high on the mountain side that you can see the city below, walking trails on the Blue Ridge. Nothing scary here besides bears - and even they don't mess with humans too much.

[@zephyrmist79]

To each his own, I guess. I have been here 44 years, and I know there is something up with this beautiful place. When I say, "Let's go to the mountain!" my family is super excited to go, no matter how many times we've been. Twice a year, the mountain gives a special performance. Look for the images of the shadow cat on the Superstitions. You will be amazed.

[@epic7224]

I feel like people's experiences are often a reflection of their lives and the things they deal with and come into contact with.

[@Ellada0427]

If he was there alone then I wonder where this complete story came from, especially the part when he turned around and saw something before he died

[@juxtabros]

I’m wondering the same thing. Is it just made up to make the local legend more interesting?

[@michaelbowers5084]

I’m not the only one that is puzzled about the child footsteps surrounding the tent or the cacti with axe heads embedded with it. Was a journal discovered on the body? Or is this an invention of fiction to explain Dr Ruth’s disappearance?

[@thedude4672]

I am wondering the same thing. How is any of this known to be true? Except for what the cowboy guides can tell us, all of this is speculative and probably fictitious. Is MrBallen lying to us?

[@steventrejo2705]

He tells stories guy, he does tell stories that can be verified, BUT he also tells stories of folklore. . . It’s not his fault if you can’t differentiate between the two 🤣

[@piratemousie]

FINALLY! Lord it's depressing how many arse licking, pick me comments I had to scroll through to find one about the video, and specifically this ridiculous amount of made up shite... he's just getting worse each week, sadly. Shorter, more boring and made up stories than ever. Why is it when creators get big, and can actually focus on creating, do they get shitter and pump out less and less content? Its always bothered me!

[@Lina_1517]

The reason why I keep returning to Mr Ballen's channel is that he hasn't changed his MO, so to speak. The kind of passion you have for telling the stories that you tell is so compelling that I keep coming back for more. You're also so humble and a very interesting speaker. Please do keep up the great work ❤

[@onestopgamechannel7846]

i just wish he would make more top places people cant go but went anyways and the missing 411 cases / cave videos were good

[@Lina_1517]

@@onestopgamechannel7846 yeah the missing in the woods ones were really great👍

[@brianpinion5844]

he was teaching sign language to deaf kids but he poked 4 of their eyes , on accident OfCourse but still not good ! you wont hear a lie ever out of my mouth ! but my fingers do their own thing .

[@anitashupe5448]

No not at all !!! He just sold out to Amazon. FOH !!

[@Lina_1517]

@@brianpinion5844 I'm not quite sure what's that to do with what I said? I mean, I haven't done a bg check on the guy, I was only referring to his content on this channel..

[@fournsevenhzerofive7617]

If Dr. Ruth died before contacting anyone, how do we know that he woke up and saw two eyes staring at him? Did he have a journal of some sort?

[@ammmm3315]

Thank you! Why is no one asking this question?

[@Jbr2005]

yes, in the story it says that he kept the map in his journal

[@ammmm3315]

@@Jbr2005 And was he writing in his journal all the way up until the moment of death?

[@icbm50]

@@ammmm3315to quote Monty pythons holy grail: “if he was dying he wouldn’t bother to carve aaaahhh in the rock, he’d just say it!”

[@jhawk4480]

India’s his name. Said he died. Wouldn’t be much of a story. So why are you watching then?

[@TheSapphireSprit]

Wow, great story! You never disappoint Mr. Ballen!

[@_bluephoenix_]

Really happy for and proud of, you and what you have built from entertaining us all, for free! So great to see the channel and Ballen team grow and give back to the community. Much respect for embracing your career change and making the most of it.

[@muhammadshabazz1110]

As a veteran myself, I just wanted to say thank you for your service and I only wish you to have more success in the future. Love the content. A real one 💯💪

[@jenniferdill926]

Hello! I have been listening to you for about a year. After the first story I was hooked. You are a marvelous storyteller! I am a doordasher, and I like to listen to you while I am dashing. I was stopped at a street light today, and a lady in the truck next to me got my attention and asked who I was listening to because he sounded very interesting. I was very glad to share!!

[@MajDARKRAGE01]

Happy Veterans Day Mr Ballen, Thank You For Your Service & To All Our Men And Women Serving In The Military Thank You.

[@hartey33]

Crazy story but I have one question, how do we know any of what happened to this guy? Like how nervous he was, the eyes, the footprints around his campsite? Usually that means someone survived so I'm real confused how this would be known... ?

[@SowmyaThejomoorthyVlogs]

I have the same question too.

[@riswanda2620]

Din"t ballen mention his log book

[@darth_chipmunk]

@@riswanda2620 that was his check book for writing checks, but maybe it did contain a log or something

[@nonai3388]

Log book was literally mentioned, he could've documented quite literally everything, i wonder wth happened to that map tho !

[@soberserotonin1850]

Like all storytellers, John fills in the blanks in the story

[@doofy2469]

Finding your channel was the greatest thing that could ever happen to me. I love the stories, but just the general vibe you carry as a human is soothing to a damaged spirit. I look forward to hopefully seeing you on stage someday. Thanks to you I live every day with the mindest of "Always be good to Anna" (my girlfriend/someday wife). I look forward to everything your channel(s) will bring my way in the future. Thank you for everything, for some of us these aren't just stories, they are our escape from our own minds.

[@jamest2401]

Standing at their base, viewing them from the area around the Mining Camp Restaurant, the Superstition Mountains give me the creeps; especially when it’s around dusk. You won’t find me traipsing off into them, on some treasure hunting fool’s errand.