Never ignore Native wisdom

[@lukewiencek7798]

My brother passed away today. Mr Ballen he loved your videos. He battled a drug addiction for years and he was doing good…your videos brought him peace of mind which he rarely ever had. He struggled for so long. And thank you for doing what you do man. Watching this one for him. Sorry if this is depressing…you made him incredibly happy thank you. Wow. Thank all of you for the comments. No this isn’t fake lol…I usually never even comment on KZbin videos. And yes beef I guess that is weird. What’s more weird is the approach you took to call me out on that. I didn’t hold my brother dying in my arms and pull out my phone and comment on a KZbin post. Hence if you read what I said I said today..not right now. Not ten minutes ago. Not last month like you said. But today. And people grieve differently. But I pray for you as well homie to deeper peace and happiness as you may not have that yet. And to anyone who thought this was weird or inappropriate. I apologize. We both knocked out watching mr Ballen and at the end of the day. It wasn’t for anyone but Mr Ballen to know his content can truly help people out. Again thank you everyone 🙏❤️. Anyone who battles this or knows someone who battles this I will keep you in my thoughts and pray for you as well! You got this. They got this. Crazy how negative some can be in a comment section. True Mr Ballen may have never seen it for the 20 people hating but 6 thousand people did and 590 of those people understand. Thank you everyone for your thoughts and prayers

[@stargraze]

I'm so sorry for your loss

[@rothed16]

Sorry about your brother. Pretty cool to watch this for him. Rip brother and hope your family have a nice funeral for him.

[@kathymc234]

Very sorry for your loss.

[@ashleylezandro6950]

I am so sorry for your loss 😢 my bro passed 2021 , I understand ❤

[@Gdub33]

Man, I'm so sorry! Drug addiction happens to good people. I like to consider myself a good person and I went down that road. Thankfully I was lucky enough to receive the help I needed. I'm sure your brother had a great and caring heart! If you need someone to talk, I'm here. I've lost 3 immediate members to addiction. It never starts to feel okay, but you will learn to deal with time. RIP to your brother. 🙏

[@lucax2300]

Me, I personally wouldn't disregard the warnings of native inhabitants who know the natural surroundings well, anywhere. That's so many generations of human experience, regardless of what you believe in.

[@lotstodo]

There are some who say it's dangerous to even speak of these things.

[@Likelyfairy]

Exactly, they literally lived here for 100s of years undisturbed. If anyone knows anything’s it’s them

[@lindisamathabela3192]

Too true

[@lesliestark5778]

right?

[@ChrundleTGreat]

Common sense wasn’t common yet in those days. 😂

[@RocketDraco47]

I love how you add the “not real photo” or “real photo” it’s such a small detail but really appreciated 🙏

[@TheSleepy1326]

And I love how those incredibly small details are “really appreciated” by you 🙃

[@AlyssaD-mr2cl]

It makes me laugh because sometimes we know it’s obviously not a real photo but he puts it anyway 😂

[@bandywallop]

Wait until you hear the sound effects he ads

[@anonygrazer3234]

...as sooo many _DO_ exactly that....fake or unrelated pics scattered everywhere like bird droppings.

[@mediumsurmoon6283]

Most of the more contextually cinematic looking ones are AI generated btw

[@gabrielboorom2683]

Our oldest gift our ancestors left us when we were born is our instinct, our "gut feeling", when we can sense something is wrong before even knowing what it is. Never ignore it. Do what it tells you. Those who do ignore it may not survive. If you're wrong, you can laugh about it later ...but if you're right, you might learn just how narrowly you escaped death or things worse than death.

[@freedfree7933]

The problem is when you listen to your gut you usually never know if you were right or wrong. Then you start ignoring it and that’s when it happens

[@pbzeppelin6167]

I believe in listening to your gut, but I also believe that it's all too easy to whip yourself into an ultrasensitive paranoid state just by indulging bad fantasies at the wrong moment

[@evelynbare1975]

I listen to my gut, but I also go heavily armed with weapons and my faith. I've learned the hard way to take a deer's approach to danger, because it's a F around and find out world. 😊

[@D2attemp]

Our ancestors gave us that gut feeling instinct and our elders provide us with wisdom and experience. Use them both

[@Chris-Dodge]

Indeed. I prefer to err on the side of caution. When something doesn't feel right I'd assume it to be guilty until proven innocent.

[@rachelengel6668]

One thing about this story that I love is Chief Ouray. He was trying to save these men in 1874, this was right after the government had promised to keep miners off his tribes territory. The federal government never once kept that promise. Chief Ouray complained about the miners in 1872 and he had continuous renegotiations over tribal land, which ended up basically reducing their land significantly and their land rights for a small amount of money because the government threatened war if they didn’t agree. All of this and he still just wanted to see those men live. He was an incredible person who saw value in human life. Every human life.

[@boudicaastorm4540]

I think that's one of the things that makes the stealing of their land even more tragic- there are a lot of stories like this about Native people who were selfless and helpful to lost white people. Because they respected life. It's a shame the proponents of "manifest destiny" didn't feel the same way.

[@sarahr3747]

I agree with you about the “good” natives but it’s an oversimplification. Tribes in the US were few and far between, relatively. And there were many warring tribes that decimated one another. There were also very brutal and cannibalistic tribes who performed human sacrifice. The natives were here for perhaps several millennia but they never advanced or flourished. As the world’s population grew at some point North America, being so vast, was going to need to accommodate people who were part of growing societies. I disagree on the whole with our government never keeping its word and that continues to this day, and our government has perpetrated some heinous crimes and still to this day is extremely corrupt. But so is every government- the nature of centralized power is that it follows a path of corruption. But the glazed over story of the poor natives is not very realistic, tbh.

[@cherrymetha3185]

They invaded his country , made laws to suit them and stole his land

[@rachelengel6668]

@@sarahr3747 it’s funny, no one calls the holocaust a glazed over poor Jew history and yet there was a holocaust on our own soil and it’s the glazed over poor native history. Perhaps you don’t understand what a holocaust is or perhaps you don’t understand the history of the US. If you fully understand both and still call it a glazed over poor native history then I think only a psychotherapist can help you.

[@ranran8934]

​@@sarahr3747You are lowkey racist here

[@ShaunCollege]

Anytime there’s a warning in a story…you know it’s gonna be ignored

[@thehousespouse]

Otherwise it would be a much shorter and not as interesting story.

[@gotdangedcommiesitellyahwa6298]

Just like in horror movies, when they know better than to go outside by themselves, or open the dang door.

[@carliecole2563]

And thank thank GODzilla for that stupidity; or else these stories wouldn't be a fraction as fun to listen to!? 😊

[@carliecole2563]

​@@gotdangedcommiesitellyahwa6298or, my favorite: "I'll Be right back!!" No... No, you will NEVER be back 😁

[@theguy3037]

Most people I know take a warning as a challenge or bet…which can be good or bad…depending on the outcome I guess…

[@jeu3942]

Side note if you ever find someone who is starving or dehydrated to almost death, do not give them lots of fluid or food. They will puke it up and do more damage to themselves. Small sips and small bites.

[@angelamurphy6233]

As having suffered from this, I can verify. Tiny sips. They will want to drink more, but don't let them. The puking part REALLY sucks.

[@deneilbaker]

Same with anorexics. I’ve also heard they give them pop tarts in the hospital because they’re so fattening lol. I love pop tarts

[@Anarchristian_Beanz]

​@@deneilbakerthat explains why I was a fat child

[@kimkelly3075]

Exactly like refeeding starved horses, dogs and other animals

[@MalevEvans-dw3do]

A little but of arm won't do them any harm

[@KingAlobar21]

Shout out to Chief Ouray and his wife, Chipeta. I live in western Colorado where they are still legendary figures.

[@mryoy1263]

Ouray colorado is a gorgeous little town, I had the pleasure of visiting a few summers back. Idk if it was named after him or not.

[@potnoogle5780]

Yes, your ancestors put them in the museum. Now it's just a legend.

[@jondon808]

​@@potnoogle5780thank goodness

[@candyluna2929]

You can give shout out to dead ppl?😮

[@potnoogle5780]

@@candyluna2929 lol

[@dtaylor10chuckufarle]

Can we all just take a moment to appreciate Mr. Ballen for going out to the San Juan Mountains in the dead of winter to tell this story? It's not fit for man nor beast out there.

[@scoper7897]

What are you talking about kid?? Are u ok???? He didnt go anywhere. Hes home telling the story from his couch. Ur delussional. Outrageous comment. U musr touch grass

[@rannnoch]

what about a beastman

[@TheLordSatan]

I saw this in my recommended and got chills.. meaning my brain loves this guy lol. But him doing a video like this sounds like eargasms ≈__≈

[@Popevangel83]

He's navy seal. I'm sure he'll be alright

[@meganleslie9069]

Ballen IS a beast

[@riss2940]

I love this! My great grandmother (Sunshine Cloud,) was Chief Ouray’s granddaughter. Most of my family (maternal cousins/aunts/etc,) live in the Southern Ute reservation ☺️. I’m super proud of my heritage and hearing new things surrounding the Southern Utes and my family makes me excited!

[@Psichotica7]

Wow, that's very precious. Your great great great grandfather Chief Ouray sounded like a very generous and wise man from this story.

[@planetclownfishbrain7052]

Mine too.

[@crayrayc]

blessings, i would love to meet you

[@aimeewank7859]

Awesome 🤩 I’ve recently become super fascinated with Native American culture. However, I struggle with wanting to ask questions (not personal, just in general about history, spiritual beliefs and way of life) but I’m too afraid of offending someone. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks friend ✌🏽💕🙏🏼 - Pittsburgh PA USA

[@katej23]

Sunshine Cloud is a beautiful name!

[@Flight420]

As a Native American I absolutely fully approve the title of this video & I would also reiterate "Never ignore native wisdom". Another banger Mr Ballen well done brother.👍🏻👌🏻🙏🏻

[@listey]

But how do we differentiate the "wisdom" from the BS?

[@Mahlak_Mriuani_Anatman]

​@@listey critical thinking

[@Shock_Treatment]

Not all Indians are wise, though, and not all wise people are Indians. The locals of any place will obviously know that place better than foreigners.

[@Oldeagle66]

​@@Mahlak_Mriuani_Anatman Well said 💯

[@kelliewhyte_85]

Full respect to you. I fully respect the Native American way of life and how spiritual and one with nature they are.

[@EuniceFrederick-xw3bn]

Telling stories with pictures is actually the best thing. I appreciate Mr ballen for that

[@TripleDCrook]

@MrBallen I’m in the hospital after getting my leg amputated below the knee. Watching your videos has really helped distract me and pass the time. Thanks John!

[@brendabaldino8857]

I'm so sorry. I hope you are ok

[@eddysgaming9868]

I'm sorry to hear that. Hope your recovery and rehabilitation goes well.

[@moirarussell1950]

Crap dude!! Hope they’re treating you good. ❤️🇨🇦

[@sherrylawrencelewis2544]

Aaahhhh, man! So sorry hun! Sending you much love and future comfort! 🇬🇧❤️🕊❤️🇬🇧

[@Replicanna-rl6zg]

Oh dear, wishing well, that truly sucks

[@Video81501]

Growing up in western Colorado, we all know this story, but nobody tells it better than Mr. Ballen. Great job in using the plot twist at the end.

[@mravocadomanandmrraisin9187]

I think "Cannibal! The Musical!" Is also a really good retelling

[@FuriosaSonoran]

I used to ice climb in Ouray... Spent time in Norwood. It's definitely no joke, but was some of my best (20+ in total) years in CO.

[@mikeydubbs8565]

@@mravocadomanandmrraisin9187 “You lookin’ at my eye?!”

[@Otherworldly2003]

Best storytelling for any story: Mr. Ballen❗️🤩🙌🏾🎖️

[@britty23]

​@mravocadomanandmrraisin9187 "the sky is blue, and all the leaves are green! My hearts as full as a baked potato!"

[@blanquiat]

My father just passed away and these are helping me keep my mind in a better space. Thank you MrBallen!

[@judywood9570]

I'm so sorry for your loss. Sincerest condolences to you and your family.

[@Broncofan52]

Sorry for your loss. Hhang in there, it will get easier in time.

[@lotstodo]

My sympathy for your loss. I just lost my Aunt, she made it to 101 and was sharp as a tack. Last of that generation in my family. Take care.

[@MrBallen]

I’m so sorry ❤

[@heartofdixie1031]

Sorry for your loss, praying for you and your family 🙏❤️

[@earthearth3189]

Can't believe it's already been 2 years since I have been following this channel! Thank you for these amazing stories, which substituted for my boredom and anxiety...

[@ncgx2655]

Am I the only one that stands on guard ready for the weekly upload? Nothing shall interrupt 🤣 thank you mrballen yet again for another brilliant video!

[@Pumpkin_the_protogen]

I do too, I refreshed at the perfect time!

[@cameroncook8398]

sameeeee i make sure i get my break on sundays at 2:55 no matter what since he posts at 3 for me

[@aluthebhaja7528]

@@cameroncook8398 pm or am? It's 3 am in my country

[@Htsht-xg3cr]

Frrr

[@tonibeg3494]

Here is 10pm. Just in time for Mr Ballen story before bed😊

[@BJ-ij4dm]

Not gonna lie Alfred was one of the biggest plot twist ever 😮

[@TrioneJohnson]

He crossed my mind because the way Mr. Ballen described the relationship between Alferd and Isreal, I couldn't see Isreal abandoning him....

[@delgriffith7949]

I thought it was Chief

[@TrioneJohnson]

@delgriffith7949 I don't know. Chief knew the weather so I don't think he would have put his men in jeopardy. Maybe Alferd was a cannibal all along which is why he suggested that they leave..lol

[@cintaminbunny]

Wasn't surprised actually

[@TheOne30264]

I was hoping it was big foot.

[@victoryak86]

Best story teller on the internet and a super nice guy as well. Even the Like button still likes him after the years of abuse!

[@Zyryne1]

And horrific, deathly attacks. The like button is a fool. 😊❤

[@saywhattt82]

😂 I’m always saying, what did the like button do to Mr. Ballen for all that hate given to it ? 😅

[@rosechoix]

It's called trauma bonding, lol

[@mobucks555]

My mom is so old I told her I wanted to join the union and she said I should join the confederates instead. -W.M.

[@suefantastic4584]

I love John Mc Ballen.. he can save me any day.. xo

[@sheridangardner2497]

I literally live in Western Colorado by the San Juan mountains. Chief Ouray is a big deal around here. You should never ignore warnings for superstitions about an area from a native American. They’ve been here so much longer than we have and they know what’s up.

[@nathancoleman9377]

Absolutely true.

[@happilysmpl]

I did not understand. Did the Chief sense Alferd was not a good person or something makes people do these things in those forests?

[@sheridangardner2497]

@@happilysmpl the winter and the mountains in the area are rally treacherous. Vey steep, snowy, cold, and with limited resources. Chief Ouray would absolutely know about the dangers in the area related to winter conditions and warned that they would likely not survive if they ventured out. As far as superstitions, I am not overly familiar with the beliefs of the Ute native tribes. Some of the plains natives believe in creatures like wendigos and other “paranormal” type creatures. It is a beast/spirit that stalks and possesses people, causing them to turn into cannibals. This feature is associated with winter by the natives who tell the stories. I think it was likely a combination of the physical dangers and the paranormal dangers that chief Ouray was warning them about. Hopefully that made sense! 😅

[@bec7080]

​@@happilysmplhe just knew the weather patterns in the area and the needs of people in the area.

[@conrradotorres4653]

*Native advice while in the woods at night:* If you ever hear the voice of a loved one call you out or you hear a whistle. DO NOT respond or whistle back, leave immediately.

[@ChrisSV98]

Why?

[@tsjidhwidj]

​@@ChrisSV98isn't that just common sense? Why would we hear whistles and voices of the people we know in the middle of the woods

[@abhiyaraman20]

@@ChrisSV98more like forest spirits or skin walkers kind of entities do that. Some say witches too, it’s all stories n people still believe

[@Marlaina]

Chills when reading this!

[@mishaanton5436]

I never have. Thank god, probably die of fright. Many times bush camping and in wilderness. Protected by yah. Pretty interesting days alone. At night. Next to the fire untill 3AM. Bears, oh my. Bears? Ya... no to well traveled ppl places. Most afraid I've ever been as one showed up every night wrecking havoc. That was a large group a dozen r so, in large area. I still did me...walks w a buddy till 3AM. Ask for short story why and you'll get very shirt but impact full (maybe?) answer.

[@shpgrl1026]

My jaw literally dropped when he said who it was that had killed the men. Wow. Crazy story.

[@saras123]

Oh really? I just said it was Alferd, its always alferd!

[@mArkP-iv4bx]

Well really what started the killing butchery and cannibalism was when Schwaan was doing his Let's build a snowman song and dance again to try to cheer up his companions but then Israel took the butchers revolver and shot Schwaan in the head. Then they were all sitting around the fire talking about eating their shoes when it was suggested to eat Schwaan. They all ate him except Israel. Then it all quickly snowballed after that

[@joeyblogsy]

@@mArkP-iv4bxhuh?

[@Killjoyfiend]

​@@saras123 "dog-nabbit, Alferd! What'd I tell you about eatin your friends?"

[@desperadox7565]

But that was quite obvious, wasn't it?

[@NickSoivilien-vz6oj]

Hello Mr. Allen, I’m a 43 year school teacher. I just wanted to say your storytelling abilities are amazing. After years of YouTubing, your channel is the first and only channel I have ever subscribed to. Thank you for providing me so much entertainment.

[@Stroopwaffe1]

Mr Ballen Sir.

[@Cons2911]

Right? When I first saw one of his videos, not only is the story interesting but the way he tells it.. and I can’t even pinpoint why or what’s the difference but he has a knack for it

[@Greentooth13]

Liar, you're subscribed to burger youtube channel

[@davemanthei5169]

Brah

[@rikaleblancz4032]

if i were a youtuber and i got this comment i'd freaking bawwlll

[@shanerobinson5627]

My little sister passed away last Wednesday, she was only 29. I’m having such a hard time and don’t even know how to process these overwhelming feelings. I’m sitting in parking waiting to go in to my baby sister’s wake and then funeral tomorrow morning. 😢 I have always watched Mr. Ballen but now I find myself binge watching because his voice gives me some peace. Ok I got through the wake now just the funeral tomorrow ahhhh

[@primovid]

Very sad. She *is* in a better place and she is just fine. Trust me.

[@seyieneituokiso904]

Life goes on Robison. Remember her mourn for her but know when to move on so her soul can be in peace.

[@abcdefghi9]

Hope you're doing better, my dad passed 3 months ago. I know what its like.Condolences.

[@lowercase21]

I'm sorry for your loss but know she's in a better place it's only us left here that feel the pain of a loved one while they are in paradise. God bless 🙌 🙏

[@TheRampagingGallowglass75]

❤️❤️❤️🙏🙏🙏

[@hollyrae313]

"He was able to make fires at night... and eat his friends" was not something I expected to hear today.

[@zachkleinschmidt3689]

Man I gotta stop reading comments in the middle of the video lmao

[@krystyna_mari]

@@zachkleinschmidt3689same 😭😭

[@planetclownfishbrain7052]

It was because of climate change.

[@theoriginalpublicnewsense]

Oh damn. A spoiler. That'll teach me to read comments before the video is done.

[@lolineko2083]

He probably got mad about being abandoned and used it as justification for what he did.

[@cassandrarocha7369]

I can’t explain how much I love Mr. Ballen’s story telling skills. The plot twist was amazing.

[@stormeb6230]

❤❤❤

[@michkaadan5045]

Same...my FAVOURITE youtuber

[@jcryer4357]

As a western Colorado native, I grew up hearing this story as part of local lore and legend.

[@dawnrasmussen4931]

❤❤❤a

[@TonyTheClitSnippingTigar]

@@dawnrasmussen4931pipe down Dawn 🔇🪈👇

[@Zaanisalive]

@SordidusFellatioim guessing not great but the ones who massacred them probably made them think like they shouldnt care

[@TonyTheClitSnippingTigar]

@SordidusFellatio I didn’t know she was my cousin 🤷‍♂️ 💦

[@TonyTheClitSnippingTigar]

@SordidusFellatio 💦 🧎🏿‍♀️🚿

[@aegontargaryen9322]

I can’t reply to Luke’s post about his poor brother so I will say here I’m so very sorry for your loss my friend . Addictions are pure hell to live with , at least he is at peace now . Take care and god bless

[@AthamAldecua]

Man, if a native American is giving me instructions while in the wilderness, you bet your ass I'm going to freaking listen 🤣

[@ReplicatorFifth]

Especially a Native American that just saved my sorry ass before that.

[@seditt5146]

It be like being at a new friends house for a sleepover and he gives you directions for the bathroom yet in the middle of the night you just decide instead to wing it in the dark forgetting everything he told you. Makes no sense. Thats how ya end up pissing in the sink.

[@dairyqueen987]

@@seditt5146 Lmao great analogy

[@washkabe9179]

You wouldn't want to listen to me. I carry a compass because I get lost so easily🤣

[@AthamAldecua]

@@washkabe9179 damnit lol

[@robbieprice3196]

The reason people enjoy your content is not only because your a great story teller but also a good person who finds enjoyment in helping others. Thanks for being you pal

[@ScarabD]

Gotta appreciate the artists who use their skills to capture moments like this, even at risk to their own health and sanity, because they know it’s important… back then it was probably the only way to have any real visual evidence of what was happening

[@WangMingGe]

Reminds me of the sketchbook sequences in Red Dead Redemption 2. I wonder if the developers included it based on history like this.

[@tdarkhorse4]

flash photography wasn't invented until 1899, 25 years after this story happened. probably not commercially viable or available to police for several years after that. so yeah sketching a scene was literally the only way to capture visual evidence.

[@FallenAngel9979]

@@WangMingGeBest game EVER!!

[@Irish_Georgia_Girl]

Amen

[@ScarabD]

More than likely! That game certainly did an impressive amount of research from what I heat@@WangMingGe

[@warmwoolsoxgood4559]

When we purchased our home on property resting inside of 2 overlapping forests, (a state forest and a nat’l forest), we were from Hawaii! Lol beachside lifestyle for decades, and had so much to learn. As we unloaded our things, an Indian - here where we live, native Americans of this area prefer to be called that - came to say hello. We were chatting and I asked him, “Would you walk down our (1/2-mile long, with towering forestry lining both sides of a steep in places, winding gravel) driveway, alone, to check the mail down at the roadway? At dusk? It’s remote here. So gorgeous you cannot believe you found this place, a remarkable, peacefully alive and wildlife galore bit of acreage for your homesite and then your trees, so useful personally - just one, and as a whole, alive and singing in the high winds up at their 80’+ crowns, doing the hula and leaning in fantastical angles en masse.. it’s magical, this place!, lol we love it. We just love it now closing in on a decade. Aaaanyway :-) I asked him if he’d walk down and back for the mail if it was getting dark out. He looked at me, a wise eyed man, older than me and so kindly, and he said, “Once. Not twice.” Ha! Well stated. I got his drift and have heeded his sage advice. The stuff we’ve seen and heard here are now legend within our friends and family to ponder. And he is a cherished member of our “hanai” family.

[@jennifershepherd2145]

Don't drink alcohol to warm up. It brings your blood away from your organs, giving the illusion of warmth while it freezes you. That, and it doesn't last. You'll be colder than you were to start.

[@anusaukko6792]

Drinking alcohol to warm up is valid if you're gonna be in the cold for a short duration, its kind of like the energy drink version of feeling warm. You get a boost for a short duration, then you 'crash' and you're worse than before. Absolutely do not drink if you're consistently in the cold though that's just setting yourself up for death as you said.

[@WayToManyAssassins]

There was a guy on the titanic that survived the freezing waters of the atlantic titanic by being drunk off whiskey. It definitely makes a difference but your right I don't think it would last.

[@ZestySp1cee]

I’m half Ojibwa, my family takes ‘legends’ seriously. We never whistle at night or while the moon is out, and we never wander around at night alone after dark. But that seems like common sense to me. 😅

[@4uaudios141]

I’m Ojibwa too! Hi :)

[@AnthonyBanks-ix4hg]

That's a new one I haven't heard yet; I'm from multiple like the blackfoot, cherokee etc

[@sat-one]

Cree people In the north say don't whistle at the northern lights. I never heard of the other things you mentioned.

[@harrykoyl3784]

I'm half Hawaiian, and was told the same thing! Forgot one night, whistled probably 3 notes, before my grandmother almost smacked my head off...! 😮

[@SuperGoose42]

Why aren't you supposed to whistle at night or under the moon, if you don't mind me asking?

[@mercury-king]

colorado native here! i have been to the site of the incident … it’s pretty chilling. thanks for covering the story, it’s a great telling of it!

[@DS-lk3tx]

Anime pfp. 😂😂

[@jarfromspace]

So?​@@DS-lk3tx

[@mang-ganern]

So nice of you collaborating with Bedtime stories! One of the most underrated channels! Thanks!

[@Hey_its_Koda]

This awesome. I gotta tell my nephew this story. Hes half Ute and Navajo. His dad named him Ouray. Now i know where he got his name. Snows are harsh here in colorado. I live 45 minutes from Grandby. Once it snows its hazard after hazard.

[@The_ZeroLine]

Hooray for Ouray!

[@Hey_its_Koda]

​@@The_ZeroLineright. 😂

[@The_ZeroLine]

@@Hey_its_Koda His name also makes me think of the Marine chant.

[@Jacqueline-l3w]

The making of a wendigo

[@lurklingX]

i thought it was insane they thought to go anywhere in winter. all you'd need is one proper snowstorm and how would you travel through the drifts? i bet the ones that stayed behind sure were both happy and horrified when they found out. wonder if chief ouray rolled up and said, "yo. your friends were cannibalized up in those mountains i specifically said not to cross. by your twitchy friend. just fyi. also, you're good to go now." imagine the shock for them. i also imagine he might not be totally shocked by the cannibalism part. hard to say what all dangers he figured were the russian roulette for them out there.

[@misfitrogue989]

I have been watching mrballen for over 4 years now and this and the podcast never fail to make my day, truly you never miss

[@MrBallen]

Thank you so much!!!

[@RC-md2yx]

​@@MrBallenim also watching for almost 3 years i watched every video of mrballen

[@BabyScatha]

This is one of the first times I knew the story the moment I saw the photo of Alfred. It's so interesting to hear the story told different ways. Especially the way MrBallen tells it. So even though I knew what was up, it was stil interesting to hear the story again.

[@kimberlyshepherd270]

Mr. Ballen could read me a story about the phonebook or menu and it would be great 💯

[@NoNameCherry]

@@kimberlyshepherd270 He'd most likely put a spin on it and it will be a whole new series about some hidden language in the pages and a conspiracy underneath, and I'd listen every time for sure.

[@nadiaa8357]

I’ve been so suicidal for four years and you have kept me company through tears and hope. Thankyou..please don’t stop.

[@yustinussetyoyuniarto4816]

Why?

[@whxmsii]

You've got this! ❤

[@MichaelLawrence-xy6bc]

Life gets better, keep going. Don't give up. People love you

[@Winter-soldierfrom46]

God bless you

[@TheDollarSportsman]

Rapid eye movement therapy does wonders to help, but in the meantime I hope you do well and keep the bad thoughts at bay as much as you can :). You are a beloved child of God, and He loves you.

[@ofentsefefe04]

I wasn’t expecting this plot twist. After that native man warned them about leaving too soon or going up the mountain, I thought there were monsters up there waiting to kill them and for them to go missing without any trace only for Alferd to be that monster😅. Just wow!

[@JoJo-dv1rz]

I wonder if the native man sensed something off about Alferd and that's why he tried to warn them not to go with him.

[@Ghostfriend7100]

I had a feeling human jerky was involved but figured another, more dangerous group lived on the mountains. But once Alferd showed up months later, I knew it was jerky time. Then when we were told he was even abandoned by his friend, I just felt like he retaliated. Now we don't know if he was actually abandoned or if he just turned on them one night, but I knew he killed them.

[@test1122lol]

How did you expect him to survive months eating nothing but snow lol, he didn't have a bow to hunt, that's what made me realize something is off

[@brittanyholtgreven4106]

I thought it obvious who the bad guy was about 10 minutes in when explained that the name Alferd was embarrassing for him and yet Mr Ballen continued to reference him by that name

[@test1122lol]

@@brittanyholtgreven4106 Lmao, everyone around alfred, called him alferd, so calling him that, makes sense when you storytell from those people's experiences, otherwise it wouldn't be the same

[@kristyreynolds8334]

Sharing your mental health journey will change lives. Thank your for your positive impact on this world.

[@Smonkyyy]

MrBallen would be a 10/10 Dungeon Master, dude is so animated and full of life while being mysterious. Really knows how to set a scene too. I know he’s got written stories already he’s reading off of, but he clearly is free-balling a lot of his speech and it’s really impressive

[@RachelleBeyer]

I’ve thought the same thing before!

[@zionebberson1027]

Haha…. Free ballin… I see what u did there

[@chatters190]

you nerd

[@thierryvankerckhove5205]

mr ballen is the best storyteller in the history of mankind!! He is one of us! And the fact that he is one of us makes him so adored by us the common people!! I hope that he 1day will come to Europe!! And if he ever comes to Belgium i will be the first one who does a tatoo of MR BALLEN! Swear to god!! Hand on heart! SF's Honor!

[@thecampfire4877]

Ive been subbed to Mr.Ballen for like almost 4 years now, its so amazing to see how much hes blown up! 1M views in 24 hrs.. wow! He deserves it!

[@ericwiese7479]

Same here! I think he had less than 400k subscribers when I joined. Great story teller for sure!

[@Nils-A1M]

@ericwiese7479 I totally agree

[@lauren9373]

Same! ​@@ericwiese7479

[@debrandw246]

Same here. Mr. Ballen has a gift. I am from the Appalachin Mountains, where story telling is a treasure. Thank you Mr. Ballen. You have an amazing gift.

[@bobbydellinger4906]

Fun fact, the University of Colorado at boulder allowed the student body to name the new cafeteria when it was built. What name did they chose? Alferd Packer Grill💀

[@Justacommentor777]

No way dude 💀💀

[@willownighthawk9189]

Because???Of course!!! Lmao 😂😅❤

[@zeraorathemyth]

Always glad to binge another story from you, Ballen!

[@kasuki_Bakugo08-tf9cw]

Love his amazing stories ❤❤

[@hottubtimemachine1200]

I’m glad you reminded me it’s not bad to ask for help. I was totally embarrassed I had a bad fall last week because of MS. Ambulance was called and I was embarrassed my legs didn’t work. My doctor said that’s their job don’t be embarrassed. To have you say it makes me feel better and not as ashamed. So thank you!

[@MyKingdomForAK9]

Think of all the situations, and various folks, EMTs meet, daily. 💞 Never be embarrassed; instead, realize how lucky🍀 we are, to live here. ❤ your KZbin name, adore those films❣️ PS: Once, I got sick in the lobby of a 5-⭐️ hotel. The ambulance guys felt so bad for me, that they trashed my ambulance-ride notes, so I wouldn't get billed. (I wasn't working, at the time (1997).)

[@Otherworldly2003]

Diabetic 50 years and have been blessed with the help of strangers throughout my lifetime.😃 God blessed the humble, so allow yourself to ask for help.✌🏽🙏🏾

[@MyKingdomForAK9]

​@@Otherworldly2003 💞💓💕... Your comment makes me tear-up, in joyful tears.🥹 "...allow yourself to ask for help"👍 Everything you typed will assist me in being stronger this week. Thank You❣️❤️‍🩹

[@kathymc234]

I'm so sorry for your condition. Please look into mushroom tinctures. Lions Mane and Turkey Tail tincture may help delay the progress of MS. Wishing you all the best. Research Nicole Apelian's treatment for MS. Wishing you the best

[@Otherworldly2003]

@@MyKingdomForAK9 Then I have served our Father and his child will be well again. I love you in the blood of Jesus that is everlasting. Thank you for telling me I made a difference in your heart.

[@IRONLEGIO]

Alfred actually later admitted that he didn’t actually get left behind, he actually just killed and robbed all the men, ate them and after leaving the outpost he was caught living extremely lavishly on the money he stole from the men, he also wasn’t a prospector but actually a man that faked being a guide, and was hired by the prospectors to take them through the mountains, but he actually had no knowledge of the area, he basically just took them out to murder and rob them

[@nightsky.94]

yea he told that version of the story few months ago or more

[@WangMingGe]

Alfred had that Wendigo psychosis....

[@smuleplayz]

The dumbass got caught using money out of four separate wallets at a bar in Lake City. I went to the site

[@thelogicaldanger]

@@nightsky.94 I would have sworn I'd already heard Ballen cover this story before.

[@jaimeoconnor2883]

Thx for this info... I was actually feeling pretty bad for him having been convicted seeing as he was just trying to survive lol

[@gaelsdottir5046]

I'm 68. I remember the early days of television, and have been thrilled to find some of the best from those days here on KZbin. Programs were good. Scripts were compelling. And there were local stations all over, showcasing great local talent. Some programs appealed to wide audiences, from sign on at dawn to sign off around 2 a.m. Your channel reminds me of the very best of that. Enthusiastic people giving their best, who also knew the "tricks of the trade", chasing electrons to and fro. Your persona makes me think of a modern version of Lorenzo - Google him if you never heard of him, he was a local TV version of Emmett Kelly, but hosting a show. And that is a serious compliment! - your storycraft is like a casual Rod Serling; pull up a chair, have a soda, coffee, beer; relax, all ages welcome, now prepare to be enthralled. It's not nostalgic. It's each generation finding its best, and it's wonderful. Thank you for giving an older person some very welcome hope, and a warm connection between some of the best of the past and some of the best in the present. And thank you, too, for always "labeling" your footage, so we know what's a re-enactment or re-creation, and what's authentic. It matters, especially in the "deepfake" age. And it speaks volumes. As does your charity work. I have absolutely no right to say this, other than as the proud niece of a Pearl Harbor survivor. But I will anyway because I know what it means. Bravo Zulu, Mr. Ballen.

[@enigma51ted]

im 55 in Minnesota, agreee with every word u said. and Yes Rod Sterling forever!

[@reginanorwood9113]

Wow....

[@stevenchurch8901]

Excellently stated, sir. I agree 100%

[@kima838]

A lovely tribute!

[@d.j.s.1774]

Thank you so much Mr.Ballen, for that reminder on how important maintaining mental health really is. Also, GOD BLESS YOU AND THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE TO OUR COUNTRY!!! GLAD YOU MADE IT BACK HOME!!!😊

[@lowa3053]

'Never Ignore Native Wisdom'.... Never a truer word spoken.

[@Bgdnbhjggyu]

Yes

[@Rebel-Wolf]

Yes

[@slthjawa5062gggghhjjjjjkkkk]

Yeah ... never ignore indian superstition 😅

[@Bgdnbhjggyu]

@@slthjawa5062gggghhjjjjjkkkk yes you kissed a toilet lid, in high school , don’t deny it pal

[@Ronfost89]

*Remembers my full blown drunk of a grandpa* uuuhhhhhh I think it is really on a case to case basis.

[@Kneon_Knight]

For a few years in Colorado (mid-1990s to early -2000s) "Alferd Packer's Jerky" was a common snack item at gas stations and convenience stores. You had to search the package for some very fine print to find out it was actually beef jerky, and it became a morbid gag to pull on out of state tourists to subtly imply that it might be human jerky. This was especially common in small tourist towns like Cripple Creek and Victor, Leadville and Silverton.

[@angusmcnay5449]

As if Rocky Mountain oysters weren't enough of a morbid gag

[@angelamurphy6233]

Lmfao

[@Anarchristian_Beanz]

​@@angusmcnay5449my grandpa lived in CO and pulled that gag on me when I was young. He expected me to be grossed out but seeing as I ate one and they were good, I wasn't thrown at all. We liked to prank each other and I liked be able to throw that one back I his face. "Son, do you know what those are?" "Oysters?" "What kind of oysters grow in the mountains?" "Mountain lake oysters?" "Son... those are bull balls"

[@samigreytak977]

And there’s the Packer Grill in the CU Boulder dining hall

[@seanrogers7073]

Awesome! I'm a Montana expat living in Maryland. I miss the sense of humor that we have in the Rocky Mountain West.

[@davidlancaster8152]

This story is incredibly close to me. I'm from these areas where the stories take place and my aunt had property where Chipita, Chief Ouray's wife, had a cabin which still existed in my youth. . Thanks Mr. B for making it real. You are a gem.

[@welsh.truth.dragon3914]

11 30 pm here uk

[@Cornwalls.best.doorway]

@welsh… how is it 11.30 pm U.K. and you posted this 12 mins ago… it’s 21.38hrs as I write this from my bed in Cornwall, UK

[@ivanamielniczuk7095]

​@@Cornwalls.best.doorway maybe he took a nap?

[@tjzambonischwartz]

I lived in the area your aunt used to from 2016-2019.

[@davidlancaster8152]

@@tjzambonischwartz and are you better for it?

[@miamimercenary9623]

I’ve heard this story like 4 other times but this is the absolute best description of the events by far. Really great job

[@chrisdann7017]

I like how John Randolph stumbles upon a "Cannibal camp" and quickly decides to sketch it and somehow the sketch ends up being really good. Like he was scared but the artist in him wanted to make sure it everything was perfect. That sketch is far better then what I can do with any amount of free time and under zero pressure.

[@helloneighbour2408]

dude is braver than most. I'd have ran away screaming lmao

[@lurklingX]

artist and documentarian, probably. and yeah, it's a curse and a gift. i'm glad there was nothing to endanger him. also, i think he felt compelled to sketch it because who would believe a story like that?

[@AcademicMenace804]

Fun fact: back when I was going to the University of Colorado, there was a restaurant in the student union called "The Alferd Packer Grill". Apparently, it's still there according to Google

[@princeemishi245]

💀 human bbq

[@adroo23]

@@princeemishi245😮😂

[@Hessed3712]

The heck?!

[@zephernix3718]

I just left CU and can confirm, it’s still there

[@Clippidyclappidy]

Well that’s morbid 😂

[@StumbleGurl]

I'm having a bad day , I'm super tired and just plain annoyed, but putting my headphones on and listening to some Mr ballen is exactly what I needed ❤

[@gazof-the-north1980]

You Sir, are an AMAZING Story Teller. Thanks 👍

[@Gorysstories]

It always brightens my day when Mr. Ballen uploads. Such an amazing storyteller!

[@TheeMaxZee]

I always find myself saying “so, if that’s of interest to you…” right along with you! I love the way you deliver the strange dark and mysterious in story format!

[@alexpriedite1447]

To the man who’s brother was an addict and passed away: god bless you and him. Your love kept him alive. It’s so hard. No one understands it. Everyone looks down on it. No one tries to care- they just judge. It hurts. It’s so painful. Most people who become addicts become that way from pain and trauma and an inability to cope in healthy/normal ways. I know i didn’t- I was never shown. I was abused. It’s been a challenge in my life. Having the support of someone who loves you- is life changing. Mine ever got it. And it traumatized me. I am clean now, but that pain and loneliness lingers. I am trying to heal myself. It’s so good that you care that much. Thank you. Thank you for loving him so much anyway. ❤️

[@susanhilton3436]

Bless you hope you are doing well now

[@MattRussell-g7b]

I'm an addict 20 years clean for 1 year love always x❤❤❤❤

[@joeyfung-i]

@@MattRussell-g7b would love to see a 2 year update. Stay strong and MUCH respect! ✊

[@maryam.ferenc]

I do....I understand.... And I'll think about you both when I pray under the stars. Lots of people say we're renewed and more beautiful in spirit than we ever were in physical form. This life is for trials, tribulations, lessons, and tests... It was never meant to be anything more .. So keep doing your best, every day, and know that we all get to finish our final exams one day. See you on this side or the other brother. Love from you sister, Rebecka. Bless you. May your heart be at peace and you have many good sons and daughters. Amen.

[@obi-juan-ya-knowme1948]

Not giving up and leaning on God including your loved ones will carry you towards your goal. I'm happy to hear you are doing great. 😊

[@MatAK49]

Okay, I am now hooked on Mr. Ballen's stories. I'll turn on one of his videos and do a chore or few around my home as I listen to his spoken words, which come across well-spoken and articulated.

[@ratgirl13]

Man, nobody tells a story like this dude-even stories I might have heard before-Kudos John Ballen!❤

[@munkustrap2]

Even when I know the story it's enjoyable to hear MrBallen tell it.

[@fido9745]

I know it’s an ad, but I really appreciate the promotion for therapy, especially from Mr. Ballen.

[@aliveandwellinisrael2507]

It's unfortunate that the service he promoted has a terrible history.

[@sciencenotstigma9534]

I don’t know why I can’t reply to the top comment, but when I was struggling with a substance use disorder, these stories help me, too! I still struggle with serious chronic health issues, and they still help me! Having a bit of wonder and enjoyment in your day is such a helpful thing! These stories give me the feeling of the ghostlore and urban legends that were a big part of my childhood and youth! Oral tradition is so important and fulfilling to continue! Thank you for including indigenous stories from the First Nations, the original people of the U.S. (who my dad’s dad was descended from), and different places in the world. To the man who lost his brother, I’m sorry about your loss. I’m glad Mr. Ballen’s stories were as helpful to him as they are to me. Thanks for being there for him and supporting him, as his brother! It means so much to us, who struggle with substance use disorders, to be loved, accepted, included, and seen for who we really are as people, not just as our disease. ❤. Much love and my deepest sympathy.

[@Unibot47]

If anyone wants to see another retelling of this story, watch Cannibal the Musical. It's about Alferd Packer and all them, made by Trey Parker & Matt Stone (South Park creators) their very first project ever. It's one of my all time favorite movies.

[@resellsthings]

amazing

[@kingserafoi8355]

theeeee SKY IS BLUE

[@forgethebind]

And all the leaves are green!

[@nihongohanasenai]

My heart's as big as a baked potato

[@samlivingston5920]

I think you know precisely what I mean

[@ZtonicsZ]

I’ve tried therapy with a few different ones but I’ve found the gym helped me the most

[@Shannon-p3d]

I needed to hear that therapy part at the end bc I’ve been planning the quickest way to get it done. I’m about to be homeless, I’ve lost everything and I’m sober, family screwed me over bad. Thank you Mr. Ballen I just can’t afford a therapist but the message was great

[@retriever19golden55]

Aw, shit...I'm so sorry everything is falling in on you at once! I was in that situation a long time ago, but I was still young and vigorous, and found a way up. Please try not to give up hope, as long as you are still alive there is hope.

[@VanBuren0926]

Don't choose a permanent solution for a temporary problem. Just hang in there until things change. ❤ One day at a time, friend!!

[@metalmamasue3680]

I too feIt that way at one time in my Iife and I promise you it gets better. I'm now Iooking at 60 in 2 days and I have grown sons I Iove. I'm very glad I didn't chose to end things. You are worth it, no bad situation Iasts forever, I hope you can hang in there and keep on putting one foot in front of the other. One day at a time, that's how we find our way. I will pray for you and take care 🙏❤️

[@AnarSchism.]

Bro, 28 yrs sober. In AA since 1991. I spent 2016 thru spring of 2020 sleeping in my dodge short bed. Even worse, the local AA treated me like dog poo. I have no family at all. Eff them all I say, my principles are intact and I am 100 % sober from everything. Good luck.

[@firecat2770]

Sending love stay strong I hope everything works out in a timely fashion for you.

[@Eric-bj1dc]

He is the best story teller on you tube.

[@iftekhar77]

I just wanna thank everyone in any profession for your hard work and service.. your contribution doesn’t go unnoticed♥️♥️

[@haileighbear13]

So 2 years ago when I was in a very abusive relationship I found your channel, and watched your videos all the time. I loved them so much as they were an escape of some sorts ;I would get lost in your storytelling. and they really helped me during a hard time. It’s 2 years later and I have a restraining order and pressed charges in my ex for trying to unalive me and my dog and long story short it also took me 2 years to watch a video of yours again. I stayed subscribed but every time you popped up on my home page I just couldn’t bring myself to watch the videos because they reminded me of such a dark time in my life. Now today, 2 years later I’m finally watching a video of yours for the first time and I’m glad I did. Thank you Mr.Ballen .

[@metalmamasue3680]

Good for you, I'm glad you are doing better now. ❤

[@ritamarchi2168]

You picked an excellent one to come back on. This one, I think, is probably his best story. If you ever feel that way again, keep listening and think of all the people listening with you & take the opportunity to take your mind off of all the bad things you have to think about for a time. ❤

[@garpnewgate]

Glad you escaped that situation ma'am!

[@rayjones95]

🙏❤🙏❤🙏❤🙏

[@abhiyaraman20]

Hope ur doing good n hanging in there.

[@badmharya]

Okay, I gotta say... this is one of the most plot twisted case I've ever seen, left me speechless, I was really starting to have some empathy for the Alfered guy🤨

[@yoginc]

FR..I thought it’d be an unknown cannibal in the end who’d never be caught! 😂

[@DeathBlocks]

I thought it was going to be some supposed supernatural explanation (And that it tied in with why they had been warned), did not expect this at all. Still deciding if I entirely blame the guy.

[@lillianrightmasika1546]

Right 😮

[@Tamara-id1pe]

@@DeathBlocksyes, like a wendigo

[@DelanoBettencourt]

Listen to the native Americans and their wisdom is beyond the best philosophies of all time, so being part Choctaw i can tell you that native Americans are born with spiritual influences of nature. ❤Thankyou

[@antoniadean245]

As I listen to your stories I am actually shaking my head and agreeing with what you said as if you’re speaking directly to me. Awesome story!

[@SarutaValentine]

While Alfred is by no means innocent, I do have to wonder how traumatized he was, to the point of maybe forgetting what he did initially. The human mind and body can go through some very bizarre stages when survival is top priority

[@shinigamikitty]

Yeah....plus, I almost wonder if all the men partook in cannibalism at first, due to the various states of decay. Perhaps they went after Israel first, and due to some kind of psychosis, Alfred felt he needed to kill the other 4 before they killed him. I mean ultimately only Alfred knows the whole story.

[@omsmada]

It’s definitely not a black and white case. Even aside from his mental well-being, he probably would’ve died if he didn’t do it.

[@SarutaValentine]

@@shinigamikitty absolutely! That’s exactly what I was thinking!

[@SourLymes]

From another person telling this story, the whole thing is about a lying con man leading everyone in the wrong direction, then killing the people who went with him for their belongings and eventually for their meat. That's why he's pretty much labeled as a serial killer.

[@gotdangedcommiesitellyahwa6298]

Consuming human flesh and blood has a severe negative impact on the body, both physically and mentally. He was probably a bit psychotic to begin with, then just dove off the cliff without a chute, so to speak.

[@SkisandBeer970]

As a resident of SW Colorado, I’m glad you told this story and it’s pretty legendary around here. Also bonus points for pronouncing “Ouray” correctly 😂 there’s also a bar in Lake City, CO called Packer Saloon and Cannibal Grill

[@sherriekantock4865]

So sorry for your loss. I work in recovery and value and honor the pain you must feel. I'm also a recovering alcoholic and addiict....

[@amandawaters1143]

I'm so sorry for your loss... Prayers sweetheart

[@nicolehendrickson4243]

My husband and I love spending our Sunday nights geeking out on your stories! Question, about our boy Alfred (Alferd): If he was sentenced to 40 years at the age of 30, how exactly was he released when he reached the age of 92?

[@elloohno1349]

I read in another comment that Mr B said made a mistake with that

[@smokeyou812]

I just commented same thing. Atleast I'm not only one that caught that.

[@mary-janereallynotsarah684]

I thought people died like in their 30s back then.

[@kathymc234]

Could have stayed over for bad behavior.

[@itsveralester]

@@mary-janereallynotsarah684common misconception dude to high infant deaths, some people lived just as long as some do today :)

[@SatanicBeans666]

MrBallen, I’ve struggle with bad insomnia for a few years but you tell stories so good that it helps me relax and eventually drift off to sleep, you are the go to channel on KZbin! Just wanted to say thank you and keep up the great stories!

[@pdvision2194]

I'd have nightmares if I fell asleep listening to Mr. Ballen.

[@SatanicBeans666]

@@pdvision2194 guess i’m broken then haha

[@YashSethmonk]

I tried that many times, he has soothing voice but when I am in half wake up state at that time my dreams become insane cause of the stories and some boom boom sounds in between

[@LydiaLehr22]

I love the plot twist. Thanks for the story, Mr. Ballen! Your storytelling is brilliant as ever ❤

[@zacwhitehouse249]

Im so old, back in my day, I used hear the strange dark and mysterious 3, 4, even 5 times a week

[@notnog]

Same

[@rothed16]

😂

[@user92248]

Riiight. I miss the good old days 😊

[@dk9619]

Yup

[@amariaz]

I have epilepsy myself and I know that it's not uncommon for mental illness to be associated with it. In extreme cases it's been associated with dissociative disorders, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. That and depending on the type of seizures he suffered from (there are over 40 types, and people will usually suffer from more than one type based on what part of the brain is effected), would have been a recipe for disaster especially being unmedicated.

[@viceb7]

Good point, esp brought on by stress of being left behind to die

[@shannon2228]

They say seizures are your body's way of doing upgrades. Welcome the ascension. Sending you love❤

[@hodaka1000]

​@@shannon2228 Yeah nah

[@shannon2228]

@@hodaka1000 you never know

[@hodaka1000]

@@shannon2228 Yeah I do know, and amariaz knows And you don't know

[@ayejay2713]

My heart skipped a beat when I seen that red KZbin notification saying MrBallen posted his weekly upload. I love the strange dark and mysterious delivered in story format 😌

[@wereallfuct]

I appreciate you sharing this Luke. My older brother passed in 2020 from a failed brain tumor operation and it’s still fresh. I feel your pain man, we just gotta keep living for them.

[@Stormy0474]

The Mrballen story Sundays are definitely the highlight of the day! Thanks for the great entertainment. 😊

[@keithjenkins6034]

I could literally be turning the key to my front door, and if a Native American shows up and tells me, give it 2 weeks. I'm waiting 14 days exactly

[@asamiller4540]

Um dude you got to be careful when dealing with native people cause if you tick them off they will hurt you I even heard stories about them scalping people

[@squamish4244]

@@asamiller4540 They learned it from the Conquistadors, then started doing it themselves.

[@thatguymatt5816]

@@asamiller4540dude came from the 1700’s to comment on KZbin 😂

[@elloohno1349]

@thatguyl 🤣

[@emmylou4]

​@@thatguymatt5816 😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@enigma51ted]

As a owner of Minnesota forest land near the canadian border, I was listening intently alert to every single word of this adventure!!!!! WOW Massivly entertaining!

[@Tracey-t4n]

I just wanted to say, i love your stories and how you tell them. So thank you for what you do. And ill chew with my mouth opened 😂😂. 🙌🏻💚🇮🇪

[@shaungomez9898]

Mrballen should be the director of a new horror film because his storytelling is amazing!

[@bluedrummajor2876]

Thank you for sharing your therapy story. The more we discuss mental health issues then the more we destigmatize these issues. I am sure that your story will help other men.

[@MomsSelfReliance]

Thanks for another awesome story, i can literally listen to this while,cleaning up my home ect.I also get to listen to stories that I've never heard of before.

[@Natasha___.]

That’s what I do too, I love being fully immersed in the story while I’m cleaning and doing little tasks here and there. It makes it less of a drag.

[@Jdobphotography]

Wild to think thousands of us are listening to this story at the same time hahah

[@susiejones3634]

Hi from the UK ❤👋🇬🇧

[@welsh.truth.dragon3914]

Hundreds of thousand problem. Edit uk

[@bossom6261]

🇨🇦

[@Jdobphotography]

@@bossom6261 same! 🤟

[@Jdobphotography]

@welsh.truth.dragon3914 absolutely! But when I made the comment the video had only about 2,700 views! 🤟

[@misterfive8158]

8.45 million. I started my Ballen appetite a few years ago when you had 1.. you are kicking ass brother and thank you from the bottom of all our hearts!! 🤙🤙

[@AcesMacRae]

Nobody tells a story like a sailor. 💯❤️🇺🇸

[@GayleneWise]

Hmm seamen hahhahaha

[@EM-mw2qr]

A whale of a tale.

[@caramarsden7150]

@@GayleneWisehow old are you!? 🤦‍♀️ smh

[@cologist]

@@caramarsden7150 Do you condemn Hamas?

[@bobbylee6859]

@cologist you got some braint rot going on man.

[@kimborealis]

Thank you for discussing mental health assistance for those of us who are uncomfortable with admitting we have a problem!

[@naninolovyou6388]

John, I want you to know that whether I am listening to you in the car or here, I find myself talking to you, like “umm” and nodding yes. Actively listening, something I don’t think many would have said about me. You have a way of bringing me in to the story with you as if I was there or as if I am hearing it, directly, from you! I LOVE that about you! I am so happy for your success. I am sure your kids beg you to read them at story time. Hell, I would love to be one of the kids in their class when you come to read! I wish you continued success in everything you do. You have a good heart and I’m sure your parents are so proud of the man they raised….❤❤❤

[@robertcharles3448]

These stories come to life when you use your great gift.