Appalachian Man interview-Rice

Soft White Underbelly interview and portrait of Rice, an Appalachian man from Leslie County, Kentucky.
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[@laceycaldwell1261]

CONGRATS TO MY FATHER ON HIS INTERVIEW....👌

[@MrBoxer1200]

He is an awesome dude.

[@tonywilson2530]

Amazing man I love his outlook on life And his beliefs I could sit and listen to his wisdom all day. Folks like this man are too far and few between in this day and age.

[@laceycaldwell1261]

@@MrBoxer1200 THANK YOU 🙏

[@laceycaldwell1261]

@@tonywilson2530 THANK YOU. I’LL SHOW HIM ALL OF YOUR COMMENTS....✨

[@BoulderCreekSteve]

You’re fortunate to have such a man as your father. And it was a great interview.

[@dillonjohnson3106]

I’d rather talk to this man for 4 hours than have a conversation with any celebrity there is.

[@gregw8599]

Celebs are chained by the fact they have to say what their audience wants to hear. Same with the corporate world

[@jeannehunt6055]

This man is honest and that is a rare thing these days.

[@pornstarlivesmatter3319]

i could care less about what any so called celebrity or sports star has to say since i see how many of us are struggling and they donate to charities that just use $ to get richer. until i start seeing them actually helping actual people im done with all of them...

[@dickelbuck1]

Without a doubt

[@darincurtis804]

Why are people constantly comparing everything to celebrities if we hate them so much?

[@IAmDivaB]

“Being intelligent is one thing, being schooled is another.” Powerful

[@FacesintheStone]

Yeah, he really warmed up toward the end of the interview. I really like this one.

[@FacesintheStone]

19:35 like right here for instance. Knowing that you don’t understand or know, everything is a level of awareness that many people don’t have. It’s what keeps you trying to learn.

[@leatricehamilton9807]

@@FacesintheStonewe all in the learning school call life ….. we will never I said never graduate.. the book of proverbs saint iron sharpens iron and enlighten your friend countenance 🙌

[@thomaslee1982]

"I was diggin' em up. It's Fall." Priceless

[@AuntJoanieBaloney]

"Being intelligent is one thing. Being schooled is another."

[@victoriaspencer4602]

Common Sense VS Educated. Big difference. This guy has the better called.. Common Sense.

[@moonpi4604]

That's very true!!!

[@selfishstockton6123]

Lots of dummies with degrees these days

[@darinbarfield8738]

Intelligence is measured in more ways than on a piece of paper. I used to own my own business- And interviewed dozens and dozens of college graduates, That could not pass a simple aptitude test needed for basic calculations, mostly consisting of 6th grade mathematics & simple analytics, The same test- I had a few high school dropouts ace it easily.

[@tracyllewellyn5942]

Joan Miller..... you are so correct, my cousins fiance is a college lecturer and is super brainy yet he didn't know the top of the kettle comes off to fill it, for years he struggled to fill it by the spout he's thick as shite when it comes to common sense😂

[@colinskinner8408]

when someone isn't full of shit it's so refreshing. love this guy

[@ASBGRL1]

amen

[@matthewh117]

Couldn't have said it better

[@at-ge5te]

A person can be judged by the way they treat animals. Hearing him talk about his fox, besides the rest of the interview, showed me what a kind soul he is. Great interview mark.

[@AlchemistFL]

This.

[@RDnAC]

I loved his fox story.

[@williamgallucci9913]

I totally agree

[@mr.dakamd5444]

@Kimisu many times, i care more for animals than i do other humans

[@brentward3082]

@Kimisu Agreed! Sounds like a great dude. Yep, you need to love and care for people.

[@Gimme_Cornbread]

As a gardener myself, I chuckled after the exchange about the potatoes.☺️

[@jeffreypetree7163]

Ya its fall " lol

[@DamnedSilly]

I laughed even before he responded, seeing the color on the trees and he's asking about planting...

[@brenna533]

So did I, it was brutal lol

[@jcspider7259]

Now THAT's a man. What an honorable human being.

[@TheDUGGAN36]

Yes, that’s a real man. Our young boys can actually look up to this man. This was absolutely beautiful

[@gypsysoul8008]

He's the Appalachian Socrates. I love him. What a kind, peaceful soul.

[@vinniep9562]

Appalachian Socrates! Brilliant!

[@buzzybee186]

Well said!

[@HP-fn4bo]

you nailed it

[@southtoe3607]

he even looks the part

[@messiona]

I was thinking Epictetus haha you beat me to it

[@daniellemichayla]

Such a smart man. When he said, “it’s easier to let it go than it is to pursue” it was like I finally understood how to forgive. Thank you.

[@lance5015]

It's a very hard task in a different setting.

[@kostasbk741]

Every few months I come back and rewatch this interview. So calming and grounding...

[@SilvaPeric]

It's my first time watching, but I reckon I'll be the same

[@SilvaPeric]

I wrote a reply yesterday, saying I would be the same...I'm already back

[@matthew-cm4bu]

That is not a backdrop. That is the road he lives on. Rice is my uncle and my mom, his sister, lives right across from him. They've had some rough times but have also done a lot more living than most.

[@debbiecraddock7204]

You are right. I grew up in a place like that. For everything there is a season..Beautiful.

[@nathanhector1985]

Like a postcard

[@moonpi4604]

I live in the river woodlands in Southwest Virginia. Its beautiful every day in every season. I'm fortunate. I'm not rich but I'm rich in nature's beauty.

[@matthew-cm4bu]

Rice is my uncle and my mom, his sister, lives right across from him. Rice is a good, hard-working man and like many around here, a true Appalachian ❤️

[@jazzcatt]

Lots of folks thought it was a background because almost all of Soft White Underbelly's interviews are done in front of backdrops. Heck, I almost thought it was, till I finally saw the breeze in the trees. I'm moving to Clay County in January. I'm finally getting out of the big city and back to woods and rural life. I was raised in the forest mostly, the had to go to the desert for 2 years, then been stuck in cities. I've missed rural life so much and at 64 years old, I finally get to retire there. I have to say the city gave me opportunities I never would have had. I'm a musician, so I got to work and I got to travel to places I never would have gotten to. Retired now, thanks to CoViD, so it's back to the woods for me!

[@missmymountain]

3:58 "I was diggin' 'em up.....it's fall" I heehaw belly laughed at that. I could see the look on Rice's face as the interviewer said "planting".

[@bettyatkinson7268]

Yep 🤣😂

[@aliseegenuine6414]

They know not what they say!(the interviewer has no clue)!🤦‍♀️

[@mandyt4335]

Loved it

[@ashleyd8547]

Me too! Absolutely howling- it scared the dogs. 😂🤣

[@mariebernier3076]

Yep. This man is just living in the natural rhythm of life...dang, Mark.

[@AjI2009]

This was one of the best interviews on this channel! What a kind man.

[@rhondajohnson6266]

His beautiful pet fox is there with him when the leaves fell . I’m crying

[@cathycassidy9769]

Yessss! Thought the exact same thing 💕💕💕💕 🦊 👼

[@spacearabica]

i really like this man's energy, tone of voice, and clarity of thought. real good guy. hope he lives well.

[@whitneyjade243]

Yes I was thinking the same! I very much appreciated his outlook and morale.

[@FallenSkater1940]

Don't worry, I'm sure he does :)

[@jeremywall7206]

Thats all of us east ky folks. We are the richest people in the world, without a dime to our name.

[@jeremywall7206]

It all boils down to family and discipline. Spare the rod spoil the child. I was born in 80 and my first movie theatre experience was titanic at 14 or so. I moved to lexington for 10 years, got tons of money and hated life. I gave it all up and came back to the hills and im happy again, lol. This old hills carry our ancestors and love Thu neighbor is strong. What a life man. Its a dream life.

[@bradsully6620]

@@jeremywall7206 what kind of work were you able to get when you came back??

[@appalachianqueen8369]

The one thing I know about being an eighth generation Appalachian is that I am “of” the mountains not “from” the mountains. I have travelled the world but no where gives me the sense of peace and fulfillment that sitting on the front porch of a small house in a holler in eastern Kentucky/southwestern Virginia watching the world go by with the music of family activities in the background and a gentle breeze filled with the scents of nature. I know the pleasures of simple living . It is not what you don’t have, it is what you do with what you have that is most meaningful.

[@TheCumberlandmist]

Amen. The mountains always call you home , no matter where you roam if your from Appalachia

[@jazzcatt]

You Ma'am, are another person I'd love to meet. I am moving there shortly. You could say, I'm going home via my grandmother. She was Kentucky born and raised. Loved her stories of growing up as a kid. My favorite was how her and her sister rode a horse, one sitting forward and one sitting backwards holding a basket of eggs to sell in 'town'. One day the first ever car came down the road, backfired, scared the horse making him buck, and sister and eggs went flying. The car owner had to pay them the value of the eggs!

[@appalachianqueen8369]

@@jazzcatt I hope your move to Kentucky rekindles the same spirit of the mountains in you that your grandmother possessed. Your egg story reminds me of my own egg story. We lived 30 miles from town and the closest “ store” was a small general store within walking distance of my grandparents’ home. When we visited my grandparents, they would give each grandchild an egg or two and we would secure the eggs in a “poke” ( paper bag) . We would walk to the store which entailed walking across the creek on a log that had been placed over the creek to get to the road on the other side. The log was narrow, had no handrails and required us to really maintain our balance as we crossed. The eggs were our money and the most skilled log walker carried the eggs ( No!, I never carried the eggs across the log.). Our walk was an adventure...everything from skipping rocks across the creek to catching crawdads in the creek to picking berries in the summertime. Once at the store, we traded our eggs for a small bottle of Coca-Cola or Grapette Grape Soda and if we were lucky enough to have 2 eggs , we either got a Hershey Chocalate Bar or a small bag of “penny” candy. We would sit on the edge of the store’s porch and slowly devour our treats and listen to the stories the old men from the hollers (usually relatives) sitting in the chairs or on bags of feed would tell. On the way home, we would chew our pieces of Double Bubble bubblegum that Aunt Zee ( the storeowner) would give each of us. The bubble blowing contest that followed usually resulted in one of us getting an unexpected haircut. We never knew how rich we really were.

[@jazzcatt]

@@appalachianqueen8369 I LOVE your stories, and I love your writing skills! You bring a moving picture into my mind with your words! I grew up in the mountains as well. My mountains and way of life differed from yours. I lived in the steep, high, pine forested mountains in Southern California. The area was more of a resort area, with the cabins around me mostly being used on weekends and vacation times when the rich flat-landers came up to get away from city life. The rest of the time they were quiet and abandoned. When you talked about the log across the creek you instantly took me back to my own childhood! I crossed many a log over streams and creeks. Some were huge and oh so easy to skip right across and others were to skinny to maintain balance while trying to use them as a bridge. Many a time I remember them being thin or barkless and too slippery to walk upon so I would straddle the log like a horse, and scoot across. Many had branches I had to break off to be able to keep going. If I couldn't get them broken off flush, I'd have to lift myself over, and if I missed, OUCH! Torn jeans and a bloody butt or thigh would be the consequence! That never stopped me though! We didn't have hollers, we had steep ravines so a lot of those log crossings I made were 10 to 40 feet up from the ground below. I had no brothers or sisters so my 'family' were our household dogs and cats. I was always alone on my adventures through the hills, unless I took one of the dogs with me. There were no kids my age living near me, so I had no friends (or enemies), except in school. Even when my parents had extra money, there wasn't enough for me to get to frivolously spend. Town, and the only local store was too far away for me to hike to till I hit my preteens and at that time we were really cash poor. We couldn't raise chickens or have a garden there, so I never got to learn that aspect of life. I only learned about soda pop, Double Bubble and other yummies when I was in the city living with my father and his wife, or visiting my grandmother in Los Angeles. One thing I wish was in the Appalachias is the Bracken Ferns that came up in Spring. As a kid I loved being able to hide in them. I never knew they were cautiously edible until much later in life. I guess the point is, for me, that I am going to be so happy going back to a rural life, similar to what I grew up with.....but different. Gee, here I thought you could write a book easily! (would love to meet you someday!)

[@appalachianqueen8369]

@@jazzcatt Thank you for sharing your childhood memories. Since my idyllic childhood and young adulthood, I have traveled both within and outside the US. I have met people from every nook and cranny of the world. Those who grew up in rural areas and are contemporaries in age have shared similar stories. Much water has flowed under that “walk log” since then. Like many who grew up in the coal communities of Appalachia, I no longer live in eastern Kentucky. I grew up in Pike County near the borders of West Virginia and Virginia. I still live in the Appalachian Mountains in a nearby state. I travel frequently to my hometown to get my batteries recharged and stay connected to the few family members who still live there. Fortunately, my immediate family lives in my current community so we can carry on some of our family traditions with the newer generations. If you can, research your and your grandmother’s Appalachian roots via genealogy and a general cultural history of the region. I would recommend the Appalshop in Whitesburg (Letcher County), Ky for their collections on the region. If you haven’t already done so, check out the FoxFire book series. This series began as an oral history project assignment in Rabun County, Georgia in 1966 . Eliot Wiggington, the English teacher and his students eventually turned the assignment into a series of books that document the cultural history and way of life in the central Appalachians. I think my family passed the first books around until they literally disintegrated. The series continues today. Don’t forget your rural California upbringing and its rich parallels. Enjoy your new home in southeastern Kentucky. Welcome Home. I hope you find peace and joy.

[@BaltimoreAndOhioRR]

Wow, we need so many more people like this in the world. Unfortunately, it seems like there's becoming fewer and fewer.... 😥

[@brandonspencer3840]

Not in Appalachia, there’s a wealth of these folks. Come visit, maybe stay 🤷‍♂️

[@Findmylimit]

Take his wisdom and pass it down to your kids teach them respect and they will end up doing the same.

[@Findmylimit]

@@brandonspencer3840 where can I stay.?

[@jenniferlueders436]

Thank you so much for the compliment. We have been migrating from there over the last 30 years for school and work. We miss it a lot.

[@robonez]

My favorite episode so far!!! I wish this guy had a TV show! :D What a wonderful dude! \m/

[@roberthill7280]

Being from WV, this has to be one of my favorite interviews. This man is wise, we can learn a lot from Him

[@zacknazar2804]

when he was talkin about his pet dying on his lap and the leaves started to fall ......that was moving

[@sns4144]

Honestly and it doesn’t even happen again 🥺🥺🖤

[@Thesunshinesinvain]

Once something like that happened to me with my poisoned cat. When he finally stopped breathing, it started to rain. Nice to know others experienced something similar

[@tmusa2002]

Wow, had to go back to see that. 11:47. What a neat catch. Thanks for sharing that observation.

[@dy9278]

@@Thesunshinesinvain so sorry for that painful experience.

[@Rebeccamyst]

I teared up and smiled at the same time when I saw that.

[@randytanaka8724]

We come here to see the darkness of life. This is what the light looks like....

[@angelblue7779]

Very well said!

[@unclebuck5051]

I am mired in the darkness.

[@meboneme1]

I come here to see and hear COMMON SENSE and DECENCY! Like the GREAT DOLLY PARTON says in one of her classic songs, "one is only poor ONLY if they choose to be".Give me a simple life ANY day....No PRETENSE, just good ole living without a lot of bullshit that you don't need anyway. The ONLY thing that would scare the shit outta me is the BEARS and SNAKES!! Lol

[@tamieheadrick8786]

Uncle Buck your choice look for the light its there

[@Tu77289]

Lovely man.

[@guns4funfreedomkeeper999]

I go to work everyday in a terrible big city with many professionals. This guy is smarter than most people i know.

[@LinneaSanchez]

Such a handsome, intelligent, strong, genuine and God fearing man. Our youth needs role models like him.

[@ross5307]

Amen! I love this man and would love to move myself family up that way. I just wanna get my kids out of the city so bad

[@natalyasturn]

@@ross5307 no time like the present. Make the move, I’m sure we’d love to have you. These mountains & people are the most welcoming you’ll find. It’s a simpler life, a safer life. We still leave our doors unlocked at night.

[@mr.dakamd5444]

We do, Santa Claus

[@anitahedgecock1968]

🌹🌿

[@dougclayton1652]

Glad you have interviewed a man from Leslie county Who is not on drugs, and understands were true piece comes from.

[@jazzcatt]

Yeah, so far I've only seen three interviews with Appalachians where the interviewee isn't a druggie, and their lives aren't all effed up from it.

[@BloodyVamp6669]

@@jazzcatt with jobs and life drying up there, the younger generations didn't stand a chance

[@jazzcatt]

@@BloodyVamp6669 Unfortunately, young people STILL don't have a chance! I'm moving there soon and it pains me to know that I will be surrounded by people who HAVE to leave just for a small chance at getting a job of ANY kind. Where I live now, I'm considered 'poor', not starving, but 'poor'. When I move there I'll be considered 'rich' by most people, just because of the amazing home I was able to buy for a mere fraction of what I'd pay here. Had I not owned half of a house that sits in an overpriced area, (that I was able to sell) I'd be stuck here and eventually become homeless due to the cost of living rising so much.

[@resilience4lyfe331]

No one has multiple back/neck surgeries without prescription pain meds. I think there is some bias about chronic pain patients. I’m happy you 84 people don’t see pain management patients as drug addicts.

[@highwatercircutrider]

@@resilience4lyfe331 I have a broken neck (c5) and a broken back (c4). I took pain meds for a couple decades, just to tolerate the pain so I could work. I was a self employed house mover. I stopped two years ago because I did not want to report to the feds. What prescription drugs were currently in my medicine cabinet. Now I am retired and just live carefully with the pain....great world world we live in eh ?

[@canadianwolverine2447]

The background looked so perfect and natural that I thought it to be a photograph blown up

[@Sniffy0727]

Same. Its beautiful

[@tieiatalks]

And the leaves falling were beautiful.

[@twinpyramid5985]

Like one of those 1000 piece puzzles 🧩 from the 90s 🤣💯

[@MoonChild-po9du]

Looks magical I was looking for bigfoot

[@sherrycallaway6578]

Yesss... absolutely Beautiful! Especially when the leaves started to fall... SO very Beautiful 🌿🍁🍃

[@susanurbanczyk9084]

What a lovely and very special man. He understands the joy of living deeply. What a privilege it would be to sit with him and talk about life.

[@LeDebutDeLaSuite]

I feel what he's saying about work. I started doing a very physical job and I swear I learned so much just from that "reaching down inside and doing it to the end of your endurance". It ends up changing you, to where you could be relaxed eating with friends and the moment someone says "hey I need this so-and-so done" you jump into action and your muscles feel pleasure from it. I believe more people should experience getting to that point, hard work, simple honest reward of knowing you did good work for someone else or your family, and the endorphins that flood your system from the exertion

[@goldentrunnell7450]

What you said is 100% true. My father made me work hard while my friends were out having fun. He taught me to be a stone mason and I hated every second of until I got older. I'm 60 years old now and still doing masonry work. I can go from east coast to west coast and a lot of places in between and still see the work that I've done. Some say hard work wears you down but I've experienced the opposite. People who don't know me guess I'm in my forties. Every young man should have deep inside him what you described.

[@neomacchio4692]

And doing hard work in the woods is magical… spiritual even. Good for the soul. I used to cut mountain biking trails in the northeast. Some of my fondest memories!

[@mandame2]

"If I have enemies, I don't know it." I can imagine this man leaves a thumbprint on everyone's heart he meets. He did mine. My gosh, I'd love to know him in real life. This interview was better than any TED Talk I've ever seen.

[@AAA-nq6bo]

This guy should be teaching our young people about life.

[@karenchandler4717]

Definitely! 👌🏾

[@aliseegenuine6414]

Amen to that! I am proud to say I am a Southerner! It’s time we get back to the basics of life!

[@darincurtis804]

You mean something a parent should be doing?

[@Revolution1117]

Interviews like this, with "salt of the earth" people like Rice, should be required viewing in today's humanities classes, or even at home. I think there are some very important life lessons to be shared here that are not taught these days or have been forgotten about.

[@steph9561]

Visit and listen to your grandparents. That’s my answer to almost everything.

[@armygirl85fuckhitler74]

I feel like I've been taken to church while also getting a great dose of American History. What an awesome human!!! Our society needs to get back to this type of storytelling❤

[@pittkidd5]

What a beautiful soul. I could listen to his wise words for hours.

[@The_A_Cast]

“Money can’t buy what I’ve lived.” Beautifully said! 😊

[@mdbrewer]

"If I have enemies, I don't even know it"

[@sicboi80]

I love this man. He seems like such a kind soul.

[@stppearson825]

Another great interview. Until I was educated about it, I didn’t realize how dangerous logging is. You can tell this guy is really intelligent. His responses were so thoughtful.

[@angourie68]

Enjoyed listening to this intelligent, humble and reflective man. A gem. One of your best interviews.

[@louisianarainwater]

Love when he says " it's all in being thankful for what you do have." ... beautiful words of wisdom 💚

[@thedrewmancometh6693]

My ears perked up when he said that jewel. He then followed up with, "...I have a whole experience millions of people with never have." Bit of envy was felt frfr lol

[@louisianarainwater]

@@thedrewmancometh6693 💚💚💚

[@benwade7334]

This guy is incredibly blessed. God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. I see God's grace all over him. Awesome

[@michaelferreri1256]

"...being thankful for what you do have". Those are indeed wise words.

[@walterg.kleponis6044]

I love this man. I don't even know him. I have a PHD and am a retired military officer and have traveled the world. The exact opposite of this man but I would sooner spend my time with him than most of the people I know.

[@robonez]

I feel the same way. People like this dude have understood something that most people can't even see.

[@timothyrichardson2290]

Hes a dieing breed. I grew up in Southern West Virginia and have known many of good people like him. Alot of people look down on them for their simple way of living but I love it. And I promise most people will never know the feeling he does when he goes to sleep at night knowing he got everything he has honestly.

[@nealjohnston954]

I love Rice's spiritual message when asked ..."What's the most important thing you've learned in your life". I found this made a lot of perfect sense to me. It was a very moving and eloquent testimony. Amen. Thank you Mark & Rice for another great video. 🤲

[@dominiqueprioleau4684]

“I thank God for being born in the Appalachian, I’ve had a whole experience millions will never have” this man and his gratitude is amazing! 💜 Also his beard is perfection! Not a patch or bald spot!! Let them know Rice!!!! 😎😂

[@Eidelmania]

He's incredibly zen.

[@wildbill7081]

you are beautiful Dominique

[@dominiqueprioleau4684]

@@Eidelmania yes he is!!!

[@dominiqueprioleau4684]

@@wildbill7081 thank you so much 💜

[@wildbill7081]

@@dominiqueprioleau4684 your very welcome

[@DML575]

He may not have money but he's rich in many other ways.

[@doubled2403]

Some old timer i know told me that before “I’m not rich in money but I’m Rich with kids and money can’t buy them so yes I’m a rich man”

[@Voyyager]

Wealth is not of the pocket and wallet, but of the mind and heart

[@balzonyr4head]

He's country rich.

[@wynonabieneman7985]

I was looking at Rice's hands, hard working hands. Like my husband of 48 years, rough hands tender heart. Loved this interview very relaxed and down to earth 🙏 Life isn't easy but we keep on keeping on 💞

[@TEM14411]

Amen. God bless you.

[@edaj1990]

I noticed too. He’s so similar to my dad it’s crazy.

[@angelabarlow2012]

Like my soulmate, Ron. We're from CT and he's such a hard worker and the most loving man I've ever met in my life! ❤❤

[@KaylaNicK]

Being from Southern WV, this gentleman feels like family. So gentle and humble. Yet not one to mess with. Sadly, I feel like folks like this are slowly dying out. Hard work and following The Word are not as popular with newer generations. I'm honored to have Appalachia in my blood💙💛 One of a kind people that you will never forget

[@zacharbert6604]

Salt of the Earth folks

[@anitahedgecock1968]

🌹🌿

[@paddlefaster]

This man is a great example of "salt of the earth." He's very happy with what he has, something I don't see very often.

[@WhatsupWorldPodcastLLC]

These interviews make me very proud to live in the beautiful Appalachia

[@dp6970]

“It’s all about being happy with what you DO have.” ❤️

[@eman5280]

Too many people are never happy with what they have. They see movie stars and musicians and think they need and want everything that they have. There is nothing wrong with striving for more but don’t always compare yourself to what others have.

[@femaleprofessionaldriver7650]

DROP......THE.....MIC moment!!!! Wow, this man is so simple yet complex and deep. A true mountain man. “Nature Boy” He’s almost ethereal. His perspective on life is soooo profound. Everything he said is beautiful. I loved his stories about his Fox and his dog. And then the setting. This whole interview should win a Nobel Peace Prize. The leaves gently falling around him.....I’m BLOWN AWAY. This makes me stop and think about many things in life. Thank you, SWU and Mr. Mountain Man, my life will never be the same from this moment. Respect.

[@user-pu1ic7oy9w]

I love how he shares his experiences but always reminds you that what he's saying is HIS experience. He doesn't push his ideas and beliefs on others, he understands that one's perception of life comes from their personal experience. We can all learn so much from this man. Thank you, Rice!

[@lance5015]

Absolutely why his potatoes are more important..

[@billieking8152]

Everyone should slow down, listen to this mans take on life. One good man here.

[@WilsonEatsASMR]

His beard needs to have a mention too! Awesomeness!

[@nevius28]

Looks like the hair near a dogs eyes after they cried

[@tammyramos6]

His beard is absolutely beautiful

[@karenoconnor4663]

I am a beard girl-his is awesome!

[@suzybailey-koubti8342]

Awesome beard!

[@donovanhowardmusic]

He’s a mans man. Plenty of those hear in these Kentucky hills.

[@criticalcog6363]

His story about the pet fox dying in his lap got me. My dog died when I was away from home, and I've always regretted not being able to be there to comfort her when she passed. I grew up with that dog and we had a deep connection, but she died alone. It tears me apart.

[@carold1603]

I understand, I've lost 3 senior dogs in the last few years, two I had had since 6 month old puppies. ❤ It sounds like she died in a place she was familiar with and comfortable, surrounded by scents of the people she loved. She probably just drifted off to sleep and didn't wake up. Your comment tells me she was raised with love and had to have known how much you loved her. (Forgive me if your pup was male, not female)

[@Jules_TX]

He's interview is an absolute blessing.

[@raeforthepeople6081]

He describes his life in such a way that the rich and famous seem like the poor ones

[@hard-truthsbetter-than-swe6543]

most are in many ways...peace of mind, clear thinking,sound mind etc.

[@StratusGhost]

Very much so, he has such a full and rich life however celebs are just.. rich in terms of money, money definitely isn't everything

[@suavomcbravo679]

Such an exquisite representation

[@azilemw]

This has got to be one of my favorites, listening to him speak and watching the trees made me feel at home.

[@leeinoregon1326]

This is the best one. This man should be celebrated. He should be giving Ted Talks and motivational speeches.

[@lovfrnd]

Well here it is a year later after the interview, ran across this and I just LOVED this interview ❤️ ‼️ Rice is the kind of man that I could sit and listen to, all day. Such a kind, humble and caring soul. Was so nice of him to share his faith in our Lord Jesus!! Lacey, I read your replies to others who commented and God bless you, hun, from this grandma out here in Virginia. You are so blessed to have Rice as your Daddy but I know, you know that. Please tell him hi 👋 from Virginia, thank him for his interview and blessing all of us by his testimony of faith and his wisdom. I hope you're all still doing well. Blessings to you and yours!! ❤️✝️

[@crazeekids9744]

Money can’t buy peace. He’s right about that.

[@crazeekids9744]

@Apples McGillicuddy , I’m not saying money doesn’t make life easier, but it can’t fix everything.

[@crazeekids9744]

People that are miserable without money are usually miserable with money. The focus of their misery just shifts elsewhere.

[@crazeekids9744]

@Apples McGillicuddy I’m not going to banter back and forth with you when you are being so ridiculous I never said money was not necessary or helpful. Also, I have 6 children, 2 of which are adopted to keep them from being placed into foster care, so I know all about hungry children. Have a good day. 😊

[@clairelumiere2901]

@Apples McGillicuddy There’s just a distinction to be made between the ability of money to solve temporary problems alleviating a discomfort and the greater peace and contentment in life that comes from knowing your true self and the higher power. The Dalai Lama said, “We can never obtain peace in the outer world until we make peace with ourselves.” We acknowledge you have to have enough money for groceries to reach a little “peace” but once that’s done, you can reach for the bigger, deeper Peace to fulfill your life. Same word, different meaning.

[@clairelumiere2901]

@Apples McGillicuddy You are making up I’m being magical & groceries was an example for brevity here. No one is denying there is a hierarchy of needs. Obviously, someone does not have the luxury of pursuing a greater peace in life if they are hungry or not comfortable in some way. However, some of the poorest people in, for example, in India still manage to pursue a spiritual life. Don’t think poverty is a badge of honor; it should be eliminated.

[@thomasgreen1557]

I love when he says " you know what I'm talking about" this guy has what most people search their whole loves for. Being happy with yourself.

[@chellerenae4614]

Omg those leaves falling while listening to his slow, lovely words.

[@FarmerC.J.]

There’s nothing simple about Brother Rice..he’s the epitome of true depth 🙏🏻✝️🙏🏻

[@msacco175]

We need millions more like him.

[@plynwow]

I don't think the world could have enough people like this man...

[@elonmust7470]

they exist, they just don't associate with you & your world.

[@kennethv5250]

@@elonmust7470 no we dont, we keep to ourselves and dont want to be bothered by city people. i live not very far from Rice in the mountains of Tn so i can relate to everything he's said

[@leighsteed3749]

He is so sweet and calm and honest. I think he perfectly articulates the core values of Appalachia.

[@pritchardhall]

I like this man. He could spend an hour with a college class and they'd walk away with a lot of helpful information - if they'd listen. Well done.

[@elonmust7470]

I've actually never had to spend more than 2 weeks without a job in Appalachia. I'm a professional timber faller. He's exactly right about willingness to work. There will always be jobs innthe woods.

[@lindaplumley4060]

This sweet man would probably give you the shirt off his back. I wish him health and happiness.

[@aliseegenuine6414]

I have no doubt he would give you the shirt off his back and go without himself! It’s obvious he’s happy! If you’re happy, you’re healthy!

[@lindaplumley4060]

@@aliseegenuine6414 Did my comment offend you? I meant it in the kindest way. If you were offended, please accept my sincere apology.

[@aliseegenuine6414]

@@lindaplumley4060 no ma’am! I was agreeing with you! I was trying to ensure others understand what I thought you were implying. Was my perception of your words wrong? He stated his body’s structural damage as not being repairable, but he is happy, none the less. Therefore, mentally healthy! Nothing wrong with his mind! My perception of this video? A sort of a boxing match. The interviewer would take a swing, Rice easily & politely deflected all of his attempts and made his own contact. Rice’s laughter was not of himself or his lifestyle. He was laughing at that interviewer. Did you notice any quick changes in the view of the video? I did. I wonder why?🤷‍♀️🤨☺️

[@lindaplumley4060]

@@aliseegenuine6414 Thank you for replying! I must have read it in a different way than you intended. Lol I thought he was the sweetest guy and was wishing him well. Thanks!

[@aliseegenuine6414]

@@lindaplumley4060 Thank You for taking your time to ensure we are on the same page! I’m sorry if I was responsible for the confusion. Have a great day!

[@Yomitomi978]

The scenery is absolutely stunning. I’m mesmerized

[@diannh2894]

"I wouldn't trade all my experience and all I've had for all the wealth in the world. Money couldn't value what I've lived" that is so very true and wise. He's such a great man.

[@smilezsc]

What a privilege it is to hear their stories. Thank you for the work that you do, these people are truly incredible individuals

[@cver5235]

She died in my lap, and the leaves begin to fall...🙏

[@manuelreeves9211]

Yeah you can tell his connection with God and nature is genuine and full of love.

[@smassey6848]

Very poetic.

[@cver5235]

@@smassey6848 as if the trees felt my pain, if only for a moment, shared sorrows...

[@KaylaNicK]

Made me so emotional😭❤

[@nancywareham6852]

The leaves falling were like angels falling gently around him sending soft love.

[@davidwoods8515]

A squirrel in the tree

[@davidwoods8515]

You can hear it bark lol

[@bodiejay2859]

Rice seems like the nicest man you could ever want to meet and carry on a conversation with.

[@bamagurl7971]

Thank you for this interview kind sir. My father grew up in the hills of Tennessee. He only had a 3rd grade education he learned from his children. I will never understand how my father lived bc of the generational gap. I'm now 50 years old and I loved hearing stories from my father and mother. They have both passed now, so ty sir for letting us hear your story.

[@catstone8589]

I noticed the little sad catch in his voice when he said his fox died in his lap. 💔 This is great interview.☺️

[@jazzcatt]

Looked like his eyes glassed up from not wanting to cry on camera.

[@lynneanthony168]

This man is wealthy in all the ways that matter. Salt of the earth.

[@psalms50_5]

@Apples McGillicuddy i think they might have been referring to his disposition and fortitude. Even he didn't view himself as "impoverished." That seems to be more of other people's perspective.

[@psalms50_5]

@Apples McGillicuddy I hear you. When i read the original comment it made me think of the saying about being rich (wealthy) in spirit and not monetarily. So I understood that they meant wealthy (rich) with all the things that truly mattered on this realm. Even after watching the video i spoke with my Husband about growing up poor here in ohio. Each of us agreed that we both found out that we were "poor" from other people in our lives. We never seen our lot in life as impoverished or poor until we were told such things or when we got older and compared our life to others be it on tv, school or whatnot. So again I think the gentleman in the video was touching on poor/impoverished being a state of mind...especially if your basic needs are met. Ill also include a scripture just for more clarification on what im trying to express. Phillipians 4 11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. 12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.

[@psalms50_5]

@Apples McGillicuddy Welp, all i can say about that is i thought we were speaking about this specific gentleman life/interview. He looks content with the things he has or doesn't have so im inclined to believe him. But when you dive into the true cornerstone and building blocks of the Americas, it has always been a slave class at the bottom. A group of people who starved, struggled, and were the epitome of impoverished and poor. Its great now that more people are repulsed at the idea of anyone going through those kind of things. We need more people like you who care enough to want to change this paradigm.

[@psalms50_5]

@Apples McGillicuddy i feel like we're having two different conversations. Im also confused by your reference to "learned helplessness" that "poverty" creates. That group of people i was speaking of in my last comment were under a systematic oppression, one that was government endorsed that spun on its own axis for generations...but i digress. Seems like you're speaking more in general and not necessarily about the gentleman being interviewed. Years ago an older woman said something that stuck with me like an earworm in the morning. She said "people can't make me happy, and people can't make me sad. Now i know that didn't mean in all things but it was the power of it that blew my mind. The word people can be interchangeable with the word money (or lack thereof) as well. I try not to be too concerned with the people who have it all, and just focus on who I can help.

[@psalms50_5]

@Apples McGillicuddy whoa...i don't think I've heard of that condition before but it makes complete sense. The only thing (I feel) it's missing is the perpetrators and puppet masters who are the authors of those traumatic events. Nonetheless I learned something new today, and i appreciate that. Lastly I believe most people don't know that there is a war going on. A war on the middle class, basic freedoms, and inalienable rights that are being stripped from them daily by those very same elitist families you speak of. When they awaken to this beast system, it will be too late for many. The only use money will have in that day will be for toilet paper. It is written that all these things must come to pass. There are people like this gentleman interviewed who will have the wherewithal, disposition and fortitude to survive, and to many...he will be rich. Rich with knowledge and wisdom to operate with less. I pray we have the endurance to endure like him.

[@veronicacardwell9485]

This man seems to be really kind and has his values on que. I enjoyed listening to him.

[@denisewells2992]

This man warms my heart. He is so genuine and humble. Man, I would sit at his feet like a child and just listen. What a blessing to all who know him.

[@venkataraghotham7586]

I felt the pain in his voice when he said "the fox died in my lap" After all the years he still feels it A great soul Enlightened Souk

[@kathyinwonderlandl.a.8934]

Indeed

[@DCLCRayP]

All you gathered from this interview is that it was sad the fox died in his lap.

[@venkataraghotham7586]

@@DCLCRayP Whst a cynical way of looking at a very importantly matter. How a human treats an animal is the true measure of humanity. You may disagree But for me that is important

[@charlotterex5233]

@@michelekurlan2580 gave me chills when that happened

[@Allplussomeminus]

As the leaves began to fall after he said that...

[@alabamahasit75]

This man seems to have an amazing heart!!!! I can listen at him all day.

[@zosothezephead837]

What a nice man. He calls himself simple, but there are many, many 'complex' adults in the world who aren't half the man Rice appears to be.

[@robincooper6997]

This man is a treasure ❤❤ He reminds me so much of Dad! He was a country boy from Covington, Va, retired Navy after 20+. This interview brought me such peace!! Thank you 💕💕💕

[@MotifBeatz]

There’s so much value in this interview. I pray God’s grace and more peace for this man.

[@themrs.hampton2959]

My absolute favorite so far. I wish this video had been HOURS long. Could listen to him all day. ♡♡♡

[@eben4reel934]

Me too - Rice has a soothing voice. 🙂

[@christinemonaghan7706]

We need more people like this. Such a genuine soul. So kind,gentle,and caring. Many blessings.

[@armytribe8471]

I'm from the Islands, and we grew up with very few store bought things, but we made and grew many things that we needed. Such wonderful memories! This man reminds me of that life. Today, I own my house, got a couple cars, and have some of the luxuries that life has to offer today. But, my fondest memories are the hard times living in the island's. I pray my kids would get a chance to experience that kind of life. Thank you for such a wonderful interview! God bless this man

[@lauriewalker90]

This man has more wisdom than most people you will ever meet

[@benjaminwilkes2403]

Tremendous amount of respect for this man. He’s clearly used every moment of his life to learn, give and earn respect, and live as honorably as possible for any man. Could listen to him all day and would never grow tired of his wisdom.

[@sylviepelletier9953]

Very well said Benjamin Wilkes, I agree with you and feel the same.

[@Brownie861]

I was watching other videos then clicked on this one for whatever reason and couldn't go back. Had to watch the whole interview. such calmness and appreciation for what he does have. Really good to see and hear this one. Thank you

[@clancaster9410]

The Appalachian interviews that you do are by far my favorite. Fr the most part especially the older ones have such sweet souls and no what hard work and the fruits of labor mean. I feel even though they have less than most people but also have it the best if that makes any sense; beautiful land, pure living, appreciating nature. Beaver, Elmer and Rice have been my favorites. There needs to be more people like this especially today!

[@johnpennington6698]

As I watch each and every video of the Appalachian people of Kentucky several were surrounding counties ...and a few were my home county ..... I notice we as Appalachian people may not be wealthy in a money sense ...... but people of this region are genuine people who are humble ... caring .... helping ..... just wealthy in things that no amount money could ever buy......you can't find people like this everywhere ....our hearts are what matter people ! the money and other material things will remain here long after we're gone !............... some of the richest people in the world live the most miserable lives !!

[@aliseegenuine6414]

I hope y’all stay that way! I have always referred to them as “rich people”, but how are they rich? Seems to me, they are the needy ones!

[@LS-ek1fd]

Beautiful comment!

[@cw6621]

I grew up like 5 miles from where he's from. 💜🤜🤛 He's good people.

[@brittlands8122]

This brings back so many memories from my childhood, getting to be around just good people great interview made my day for sure

[@danatinney8743]

What a wonderful gentleman. I love his outlook on life and being simple. He is smarter than he believes he is. God bless this man and his family. I'm an East Tennessee girl myself but I wish for a simpler way of life.

[@jenniferlynn79]

Rice is my kind of peep! We grew up fairly poor and at times destitute. My mom made sure to instill in us the idea of perception. Instead of wanting what we couldn't have appreciate what we did have because it could always be worse. My husband grew up in the Appalachians in Quebec Canada and going to his hometown the first time I was utterly blown away but the absolute beauty and sense of community they had in the tiny village he lived in. Sending so many well wishes to Rice and his family but also to those who are reading this. ❤

[@catebartley9865]

Aww bless you dear. What a kind comment.

[@margiep.7762]

Thank you 😊 for the well wishes, needed that today😟

[@bettyblu8115]

What a thoughtful, lovely piece of writing. Your Mom had a wonderful, true outlook on life...and you are a kind person...which matters most. Thank you Jen, wishing you the same.

[@tamieheadrick8786]

Thank you

[@meloudee5932]

"I will not trade for what I have and experience for the wealth of the world" ❤️

[@lorisanchez6083]

These folks are amazing! Kind..grateful..resourceful..family oriented..happy. love Kentuckians! Great interview.

[@SemperBarta]

I envy this man's beard. Holy cow. Great interview and what a decent human being. Love it.