Unboxing Arkansas: What It's Like Living In Arkansas

Does everyone in Arkansas shop at Walmart?
Did Bill Clinton ruin Arkansas' economy?
And does Arkansas have some of the prettiest countryside in the south?
We’ll answer those questions and talk about a whole lot more than just that. So let’s all grab a buggy. Cause we’re gonna unbox the state of Walmart! Also known as Arkansas.
Ok. Here we go. We’re at the best place in the world for retail shopping. Where you can get practically anything you want. Where you can get into a fight over a flatscreen and see people shooting up in the bathroom. Where you can park your RV for a week and no one will care. Where you can get a job at 70 and earn lousy wages. Where they aren’t any real cashiers anymore. Where you can get a whole outfit for church for thirty bucks.
Of course, we are at Walmart. Now Walmart is the butt of many jokes, and it doesn’t have the reputation as being a very glamorous place to shop. But it’s cheap and convenient and 95% of Americans spent money here at some point last year, and YOU were probably here some time last week. More people spend money at Walmart than any other place where you can SPEND money. So, say what you want about Walmart, but it’s definitely a big part of the US culture.
We’re here at Walmart because we’re in Arkansas. And Arkansas is the first ever Walmart was opened, way back in 1962. It’s also where Walmart’s worldwide headquarters is located. I say worldwide because there are more than 10,000 Walmart stores in 23 other countries including many countries in Africa and South America.
But, as you may be aware, Walmart has a bad side. Many Walmart employees make up the bulk of the Arkansas welfare rolls, as many of its workers are among the ranks of the Arkansas working poor. They don’t pay people very much. And Walmart’s dominance here in Arkansas has meant tens of thousands of lost jobs from smaller retail locations, which just can’t compete with the global giant.
Many areas of Arkansas have a frail economy, and there are parts of this state you would never want to live in. And if you’re deciding to move to Arkansas, or just want to know more about this state, you want to know where the good areas are, the bad areas are and where all the rednecks live.
This is Arkansas.
#arkansas #moving
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This channel is about America!
The best video on this topic!

[@NickJohnson]

Here are ALL 50 Unboxing Videos: kzbin.info/aero/PLq-_cmf3H6yqgM1vGG305six5T7dqGURF

[@laurakeightley9882]

Just found your channel this week but Dam I love ur sense of humour and ur silly but still catchy songs!

[@kennedyland1]

Well done, Nick.

[@robertnunneley100]

Arkansas was a lot better off before Katrina hit with a Republican on watch! Do your own research and figure out why!!! ( Pine bluff!!!)

[@lorenamorfin5946]

Can you do an update on this? Thank u

[@StrivingIntellect-qj5rw]

I'm surprised that you didn't talk much about the River Valley with the exception of Fort Smith.

[@tonym7919]

The woman you interviewed has a heart of gold. I admire how knowledgeable and passionate she is about her area and state. I can really see the pain she's carrying, but she still continues to believe in her community. She's a strong woman and I really wish her the best ❤️

[@EEVENEEVEN-vb5qy]

She's awesome

[@leoross5777]

she dont know.. that fracking is a good thing or a ..bad thing.. yeah when your water from your kitchen sink tap can BURN , thats kinda bad

[@BirdieB88]

Being from Australia 🇦🇺, it’s really great what nick is doing to show your incredible, diverse and multi layered country to other places in the world, including ours ( Oz 🇦🇺) yeah, thank you. Thank you for keeping it real Nick. Your doing an incredible job, and doing more good than you know. 🌟🌺

[@NickJohnson]

❤️❤️

[@The.Hummers]

He has Arkansas completely wrong just some things he got right most is wrong

[@tmartin6300]

@@NickJohnsonNick, I do enjoy a lot of your videos, and I love the unboxings. But if I had one criticism, it’s that you should leave you personal conservative bias out of your videos. Other than that, it is usually pretty interesting.

[@lisajones9673]

I live in Arkansas where he says its Democrats are living I am one of them. We are marginally black people so it's diverse.

[@NaturalStateHeathen]

I'm a heathen living in a rural area in Arkansas. The people are extremely friendly, there is a food, music and art culture everywhere you look here. I'm not sure where you got all of your information but this is a beautiful and amazing place to live. All walks of life are welcome and appreciated.

[@peachyboi699]

Are people in Arkansas fine with bisexual people? I wanna move there when I'm older cuz everything about the state seems good

[@peachyboi699]

@@kindelderson9838 oh alright thank you

[@wil7228]

​@@peachyboi699 watch the movie deliverance.

[@peachyboi699]

No

[@egillskallagrimssonberserk1671]

@@peachyboi699if you stay around Fayetteville then yes but anywhere else in the state no.

[@stephendacey8761]

I didn't realize how informative and interesting an interview would be about Arkansas, but this one was worth watching until the end. Great job Nick, and this woman was very nice and knowledgeable about her home state. I wish her nothing but the best, and I wish her the best of luck.

[@lorirobertson643]

Thank you @stephen dacey. There are so many good things about Arkansas I couldn't fit in. I appreciate your well wishes 🙏

[@melissahill8487]

Born and raised in Magnolia, AR, joined the military, lived all over the world, but there's NO place like Arkansas. 💪👍 Yes, I moved back. 4 acres outside Little Rock. I love it here ❤️

[@lorirobertson643]

I love Magnolia! One of my favorite day trips to the antique shop on the square. Haven't been in quite a while. Hope Checkers is still there

[@joey011582]

I've been all over as well and I agree, Arkansas is one of the best.

[@melissahill8487]

@Mark Williams what are you talking about? Nowhere is perfect. Live where you want, but don't hate on me. Arkansas is diverse, as far as geography. Forests, mountains, hot springs, beautiful lakes, etc. We're all Arkansas at the end of the day.

[@ashleybonanno3043]

@@lorirobertson643 I used to live real close to Magnolia! I, unfortunately, lived in Smackover for about 3 years.

[@lorirobertson643]

@@ashleybonanno3043 Sounds like your time there could've been better spent. I don't think Smackover has much to do - like most of the small towns in Arkansas

[@NickLenae]

This was the best interview I’ve seen on any of your videos. The real and raw emotion from your interviewee really speaks to the fact that while your videos are funny and I’m sure accurate, there are REAL PEOPLE who are living there, doing their best. Thank you. She reminds me so much of my Arkansas born mother.

[@NickJohnson]

Yes she's a saint!!

[@lorirobertson643]

@Lenae Thank you. You're too kind 🤗

[@YeahNah100]

Are you still there? I am interested in moving to Arkansas and I have a hard working army coming with me that can bring healthy positivity to the area. And we truck too! ✌️❤️🇺🇸​@@lorirobertson643 are

[@vickielewallen3799]

The humidity in Arkansas is high, but that keeps a lot of people from buying a home here, which leaves it beautiful, green and natural. I moved here from So Cal, and love it. Lots of lakes, hills, waterfalls, national forests, and so many beautiful State Parks. Little Rock, Fayetteville, other larger cities are great, but l prefer the rest of the state, the beautiful, natural areas.

[@lutherheggs]

One thing about it, the temps dropped into the high 60's after dark, even in summer.

[@kevinboyer942]

I live in Florida we have a lot of ex-Californians moving here in Central Florida

[@vickielewallen3799]

@@kevinboyer942 I loved Florida, only saw mostly Destin but it was awesome, very different and better than the beaches in California, loved it!

[@vickielewallen3799]

@@lutherheggs Yes, thats true. Nice cool early mornings, love it

[@kevinboyer942]

@@vickielewallen3799 I have lived in Florida for almost all my life I am originally from the West-coast of Florida and Siesta Key is a great beach . Usually ranked at the top of all beaches in Florida and Nationwide. White sandy beach just like powder

[@IReminisceNYC]

I have visited Fayetteville several times and stayed a few days in Conway once, yet never realized what it is like in many other parts of the state. This video is eye opening and the interviewer's account is so heartfelt. Thank you so much, Nick for all the work you put into the research & sharing these videos.

[@NickJohnson]

Ok hon ❤️

[@gjh9299]

is that the area near the college? I head it's nice

[@Just_JennAy]

@@gjh9299 yes, Fayetteville and Conway are both college towns, I'm about an 45 mins. away from Conway.❤

[@IReminisceNYC]

@@gjh9299 that’s correct.

[@dylantech]

How he described Northwest Arkansas, or NWA, as a completely different from the rest of the state for positive reasons couldn’t be less accurate. As someone whose family is from Pine Bluff, spent half my childhood in the rural parts of the state, even people from NWA don’t realize how much worse off the rest of the state is. Most of my family has either relocated to NWA, Conway, or left the state entirely. NWA is the only place I would live in Arkansas and you couldn’t pay me enough to move back south or east as an adult.

[@robertmoore2049]

Thanks Nick for educating us on different parts of the United States 🇺🇸. You’re both educational AND entertaining! I’m beginning to learn about and appreciate my country more and more and I like your interviews of those who live in each state you feature.

[@NickJohnson]

Ok Robert!

[@simplesimon8255]

It sucks that you had to learn about it by starting off with the shithole that is Arkansas. I promise we have much better to offer as a nation.

[@wordawakeningny]

And wow the Arkansas native was so tore up she started crying. If only we all loved our communities like this lady.

[@NickJohnson]

I know!!

[@user-lb7yu8hc7z]

I am a minority. I live in AR. The best state ever. People are extremely nice. Love Arkansas.

[@tomcam77]

I’ve lived in Arkansas for 46 years. And this guy is spot on. Either he’s done his homework or he’s lived here. Funny as hell to. Nice video thanks for the honest opinion.

[@peachyboi699]

In your opinion are people in Arkansas nice and welcoming?

[@sophiafaithmike5005]

Hi inbox me

[@magirusdeutzjupiter2234]

@@peachyboi699 this area reminds me of the 70s Black Widows bike gang from the Clint Eastwood movies. 😄😄😄..If you wanna eat take a seat..if you wanna talk..take a walk!!😅😅😅

[@annk206]

​@@peachyboi699Only because they want to get in your business.

[@Dirge_For_November]

We are being turned into a service economy which will lead to very worse things. We need manufacturing back.

[@danielgriffin8132]

We'll have to get Wal-Mart out before manufacturing will return oh and harbor freight. They helped kill manufacturing.

[@jondstewart]

@@SV-kr9fu you can’t even make ends meet on $15 an hour today unless you live in an ignorant hellhole like Arkansas.

[@aribasmajian18]

The interview was a good interview it got heart felt. Arkansas is pretty it looks very scenic.

[@nakiawilson3867]

Winslow area is beautiful in the fall. I grew up right outside of Fayetteville.

[@lorirobertson643]

Thank you for listening. Your kind words are appreciated 💜

[@aribasmajian18]

@@lorirobertson643 you're welcome

[@StallionFernando]

It's a gorgeous state and the housing is cheap, sadly the crime and lack of jobs is what's keeping people out.

[@timrainwater3969]

Thank you for the non brutal unboxing of our great state. I know you could have focused on so many more negative things. I appreciate you listening to that woman at the end so respectfully. I’m a proud lifelong (51 years) NEA resident. Thanks again. God Bless You!!

[@NickJohnson]

Tim ❤️

[@timlucasentertainment]

Awesome interview. I agree with her, if people can bring back home their education/expriences/talents it can help turn things around. The problem is the big city and the healthier places keep you there because you feel like you are a part of something when really they'd often be fine without you. but your small hometown area might not.

[@lorirobertson643]

Thank you for understanding. Some people just don't get it. Yes, it takes money but that's not the whole answer. If there are got fresh minds backed with drive/ambition, that money is poured down a rat hole.

[@alexmartinez1630]

Trust me, no one with an education is moving back to Pine Bluff

[@Rosemari753]

I've considered buying land in northwest arkansas, still am. I didnt realize how rough the rest of the state was though, very sad. Come on Walmart, step up and put some of your billions toward revitalizing the rest of the state!

[@joey011582]

Its not as bad as he makes it out to be. I love it here. Its easy to look at the negative

[@dynestis2875]

Why should they?

[@guywithababyracoon5961]

Hot springs ain't that bad

[@jennyknepper]

There are sadly elements of truth in this narration (we’re not perfect) but, all sweeping generalizations made herewere either very exaggerated or just dead wrong. Look at the musicians from Arkansas and then tell me there’s no Arkansas music? We’ve got plenty of regional food culture, 6 different geological zones and some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet.

[@littleray3899]

That’s not their jobs, Walmart already set up jobs all over the state. The government job is to invest in other industries to give opportunities to the rest of the state.

[@katpyss]

I love that scene in King of the Hill when Hank is crossing into Hot Springs, Arkansas and the welcome sign says “Home Town of President Bill Clinton”. Hank then proceeds to lock his car doors as if he was driving into a bad neighborhood lol

[@itsnick37]

He knew 😂 imagine Hank business trip to Seattle or Portland that would be funny

[@marthasmadman]

Hot springs does suck

[@arthurgearheard4701]

Clinton was actually born in Hope!

[@williamperryjr1324]

@@arthurgearheard4701 Correct!!

[@southerngal7899]

And to think, I love Hot Springs in the fall because of the beautiful foliage. Wanted to move there until now 😅 and I'm in La. Ughhh. Love this guy. 💕 Shreveport is getting really bad. 😿

[@coleycole6434]

As a resident of Northeastern Arkansas, Osceola to be exact, this is NOT what the towns look like...entirely. LOL. You would've passed many very-very nice homes to get to the unsavory parts of town. The video is informative, but damn. You did NE bad.

[@racheljenkins392]

Thank you! I Live in Jonesboro and it is not even close to what he described! You can tell he isn’t from here and has probably never even been here ever.

[@mysticnomadivy]

Yeah same with jonesboro!

[@mysticnomadivy]

He literally said Batesville was the best and Jonesboro the best of the worst?! 😂

[@lorirobertson643]

I believe Nick compiles his information based on police & census reporting. Maybe numbers don't lie but I suppose they can be misleading. Just be proud you aren't in the Pine Bluff area 🤦‍♀️

[@notherebutthere3]

PS Jonesboro crime rate is only up because everyone from Blytheville is doing it ❤️😂

[@ritahulen8007]

Oh my goodness, your interview at the end really touched my heart. I live in the West Memphis AR area and relate to her story 100%. I'm 65 and remember how wonderful the small towns used to be. It is heartbreaking to see what has happened to our state. Bless her heart.

[@BostonCycling_]

Northwest Arkansas is amazing and super underrated for how many good outdoor recreation places and good restaurants they have. As far as identity goes - this region may become the mountain bike capitol of the US and Fayetteville is hosting a world championship for cyclocross

[@arthurgearheard4701]

It's also the home of the Arkansas Razorbacks!

[@rickhall8119]

Yeah Outside Magazine is really pushing it for that reason. Get ready for it to turn into Boulder, CO soon.

[@austinrushing8429]

I also live in NWA and almost hate to consider it “Arkansas” due to the stereotypes of the rest of the state! It’s awesome here

[@IDF1987]

@@austinrushing8429 live there and we jokingly refer to it as "fake" Arkansas. We love it here

[@jot6685]

We lived in NWA for a short while and moved because it was too much like California to us. Too crowded, too busy, too citfied to corporate. We wanted to slow down and live more rural. We called it little San Diego and truly it needs to be it's own state. It's nothing like the rest of Arkansas. Not that there is anything wrong with that if it's the lifestyle you want.

[@OwlingDogDesign]

You know, I really love your interview style. You LET people take their time, you don't talk over them, you don't change the subject every 40 seconds... Most 'interviewers' are hurried, harried and thoughtless (gotta get through their prewritten notes). You are not any of those. I appreciate this. Another interview channel (totally different than yours altogether) is Soft White Underbelly (I know, strange name). He also lets people go after getting them comfortable and people WANT to tell their story. I love that you (like that other program) are NOT driving the wind, but merely managing the sails for the person who's speaking. GREAT JOB. Thank you for adding the interviews at the end of your informative explorations of our country. :)

[@NickJohnson]

okay!!

[@user-nw6qp1ki2n]

Well written 👍🏻✅ أحسنت

[@aceswild1960]

Nikki(o

[@aceswild1960]

9 UK

[@aceswild1960]

I 98

[@chris-pr4sr]

You interview with that wonderful woman was incredible! I wish everyone in this country would watch it. Keep it up! If enough people wake up maybe things can change. Thank you.

[@dellamphear9367]

I'm from Arkansas, born and raised. I enjoyed your tour. I enjoyed the interview you did with the lady from Pine Bluff. She's a good person, I proud that we share the same state. Arkansas, as with other places has it's problems, but it's home sweet home.

[@ahsvikings2014]

My favorite series on KZbin. Thanks Nick! Greetings from Chicago.

[@AndrewLaMonica1]

Same and I'm from nj

[@alien9616]

I used to live in Arkansas now living in Chicago. This city is straight trash with all the violence, car jackings and shitty Mayor. I'm moving back to where I don't have to worry about any of the above

[@Dirge_For_November]

One of the handful of producers I look forward to. Thanks for your videos Nick.

[@NickJohnson]

okay!!

[@ijustworkhere8433]

Born and raised in Little Rock. This truth she is speaking has broken my entire family. Most of them are dead now and I cannot take back the time I lost with them trying to make a living for myself and children. It's like I had no choice but to move out to survive. My relatives being military, returned home to retire. If you are not a farmer, or retiree, you will suffer here. I feel safe here, and happy, at peace... but fight poverty and its so sad. ANother issue is when getting on your feet, you be even 2 hours late on rent (since you can't make enough $ to buy), you're arrested.. children took to cps, and all your belongings seized to the landlord. sadly, most landlords take full advantagveg of this. I remember losing EVERYTHING I OWNED not knowing this rental law. The ONLY state that does this. Lost everything, eviction, arrest, and I was a college student who wasn't even 24 hours late on rent. Ruined my life for 7 years. The gang culture would die out if there were jobs and opportunity. It's soooo sad the higher ups won't do anything. There are elders there that desperately miss their family just like this lady interviewing. But we cannot return, I've tried maybe 13 times; failed every time. Then since the airports aren't busy, visiting is too expensive. I miss my remaining family there so much, my own mom is buried there. I am so hurt my home state is like this.

[@NickJohnson]

I'm so sorry dear 💔

[@anthonyfernandez82]

That landlord would be stabbed if that happened to me. What the hell kind of law is that

[@jjmcwill1881]

They arrest you for being late on rent? That don't sound right.

[@williamwilson6499]

Nothing but lies. You can’t be arrested for being late with rent in Arkansas unless the landlord has you evicted and you don’t leave in ten days.

[@ijustworkhere8433]

@@jjmcwill1881 they arrest you for being late on rent go to the attorney generals website and read the tenant laws for Arkansas they are horrible

[@niccoarcadia4179]

I had the pleasure of living in Mountain Home for 1 year! I loved the people and met some really nice everyday folks who are heartful, kind, and well mannered. I stayed there with my father during the last year of his life. He was originally from Chicago and moved to Arkansas to retire in the low cost south. I finally got to know him like I should have, but back in my youth I was a rebellious teenager and raised hell often. I changed over the years and eventually got a degree and a job in New York City where I lived and worked most of my life. Now I'm 65 and I plan/hope to go back to Arkansas and call it home. I'll be sure to spend my retirement dollars locally.

[@itsnick37]

I would say northern Arkansas is a nice potential “going to live off grid” spot

[@WilliamBCarr]

CORRUPT...!!! Always drags everything down...!!!

[@guywithababyracoon5961]

Just go to hot springs

[@zenmasterjack3873]

Hot Springs is where you wanna go

[@steveobeanz76]

You better be rich. All the wealthy west coast folks buy up the land..

[@hudsonjamesc]

I believe Budget Lawns lives there.

[@IDF1987]

I live in Bentonville and there is a reason we call NW Arkansas "fake Arkansas". It's a great place to live, but definitely a bubble

[@zenmasterjack3873]

Moved to Arkansas from the central valley of California. Fayetteville definitely just feels like a forested Los Angeles in the hills. At least, the people there would fit right in in LA. Didn't like it at all.

[@NPC8087]

I visited Bentonville and loved it. It had a variety of businesses, the old part of town was quaint and much of Bentonville seemed new.

[@Abel-Alvarez]

@@zenmasterjack3873 Central valley? Are you from Fresno,CA?

[@maryjones2992]

A bubble of excellence

[@aaronparker7741]

Ne ark so much better than nw

[@pine_float1170]

Nick, Thank you for putting the hard work in to make this video. Im from Arkansas and I know our state is far from perfect, but its honestly a great place to call home! Keep up the great content!

[@abel5925]

I love Walmart, I lost everything and my house due to flood damage. I was able to clothe my family and furnish my home for extremely cheap. It has its huge downsides obviously. But the cheapness dug me out of a hole.

[@sharkymama]

Hi ya Nick , you never fail us ! Consistently providing great , well researched content. But I think what I like about you the most is your endearing approach the inflection in your voice the excitement and your humor you keep me coming back😘

[@PAULY-P]

Wow! That was one of the greatest interviews I've seen. You can tell she has been effected and truly cares. Great woman! Gone are the days when Elvis and many greats played at Pine Bluff and Texarkana.

[@NickLenae]

She reminds me of my mom, who was born in Arkansas and moved to Oregon when she was young.

[@lorirobertson643]

You're right about the concerts in Pine Bluff. I saw Elvis, John Denver, Tim McGraw & the g.o.a.t. Stevie Ray Vaughn who fronted KISS. The Ringling Bros. Circus performed 3 shows July 4, 1976 after an awesome parade. The matinee was wonderful!

[@lorirobertson643]

@@NickLenae Thank you! That's sweet ☺

[@PAULY-P]

@@lorirobertson643 I wish I could have seen Elvis! When he died, I was born. I seen SRV once in East Troy WI right before he died. Sad day. Thanks for responding and your interview made me tear up a little. Nick picked a great one to interview. You and your husband take care of yourselves out there. God Bless 👊

[@NickJohnson]

Aww Lori you made some friends and people love ya!

[@wade5941]

Sittin here in Medora, ND killing a little time before the Medora Musical and came across your videos. I'm hooked. Grew up in Arkansas but left about 40 years ago. I have been to all 50 states and having watched 7 of your videos this morning and afternoon. You do a fantastic job of describing the states you profile. Will make time this winter to watch ALL of videos.

[@julieford8788]

Born and raised in Arkansas. I still live here and will die here. I’ve lived in Little Rock and North Little Rock. Both cities are in decline. Crime is way up. Now living in a small community with great schools. ❤️

[@yukihirasouma4691]

I bet both those cities are democratic controlled?

[@autumnzellers3855]

I really appreciate the Unboxing videos. Hearing experiences from real residents of the state are so humbling. I appreciate the residents sharing their thoughts and lives. Thank you Nick.

[@NickJohnson]

Ok! ❤️❤️

[@heneedsomemilk4194]

I visited Arkansas last summer I thought ppl wouldn't like me cause I'm black they were cool with me until they saw my ID say California lol they rolled their eyes and was like "oh god" they were surprised they got along with me being from Cali

[@vantastic9367]

Seriously? Go to Pine Bluff it's 75% black, js there are many black people that live in Arkansas.

[@dhisufiroafrozenseraphimdragon]

There's lots of blacks in Jacksonville and Little Rock too. I'm black and I live in Cabot, Arkansas, which is primarily a white, Republican area. Everyone that I've met is very kind and the neighborhood is quiet and peaceful.

[@tamicakenyon5934]

We live in Harrison. Don't let the ONE old man who is KKK scare you away. No one agreed with his beliefs here. It is very welcoming to all colors.

[@perrinpartee557]

Southern and eastern arkansas are 40-50% black or more but northern Arkansas is not

[@Abel-Alvarez]

Lmfao they were more judgemental that you were from California more than anything. It's funny seeing people from other states have a reaction that someone is from the west coast. xD

[@joaneyharris4115]

Thank you for this video! My family moved to Arkansas when I was in the 7th grade. It was my dad's home state. We lived in a super rural area named McCormick, He worked for a farmer, and well that did not work out, so we moved to another town. He had a very difficult time finding employment elsewhere. Sadly I was enrolled into 9th grade back in Illinois. I loved it there as a kid. We were beyond poor. But there truly is something about that state that makes you not really care. Watching this video because I would like to move back. Thank you again!

[@sophiafaithmike5005]

Hi inbox me

[@iangross5860]

Great video, very informative. This interview was excellent, it's my favorite one that you've done so far from what I've seen. The woman interviewed seems like a wonderful person, and it's people like her that renew my faith in people. America needs more people like her.

[@Dangic23]

The USA is truly a whole bunch of mini countries under 1 Flag. If you look at it that way, instead of in a homogenous frame, then it becomes easy to understand the diverse sub-cultures. It's similar as to looking at Spain and Germany, under the EU .

[@davidconn3222]

Canada also

[@paveladamek3502]

No it is not.

[@Dangic23]

@@paveladamek3502 It is. I have lived in 6 different States. All very different from each other. And I have lived in Europe.

[@OhPhuckYou]

No one seems to understand this. They'll try to compare the US to countries like the UK, but it can't be compared that way. An comparison to the entire EU would be more appropriate.

[@user-sv3tx9gm6u]

I would say Arkansas is a better version of Missouri. -A Missourian

[@peregrination3643]

You know, sometimes I wonder if I should hop across a border and live in MO or OK, but KZbin commenters tell me I'm better off where I am in AR. Well, okay then 🙂

[@tiffanymendoza9523]

Yet Arkansans always come to MO on vacation! 😂 My family always went to Branson. SDC was our favorite place and the drive up there was very pretty.

[@peregrination3643]

@@tiffanymendoza9523 Oh yeah! SDC was awesome. We also went to a water park in Branson (Whitewater?). Pretty good Ripley's Believe It or Not museum. I haven't been to Branson in a long time, but it was fun as a kid. There was also a reasonably priced hotel that had crab in their buffet. Pretty novel for us at the time. I also know many people who like to camp in the area.

[@tiffanymendoza9523]

@@peregrination3643 we always did Ripley's too! There used to be a place called the Butterfly Palace that we went to a lot too. Along with The Hollywood Wax Museum, and the museum at the College of the Ozarks. Our go-to eating place was Starvin' Marvin's! My grandparents took us to Branson at least once or twice a year. I'm on the East coast now and while I visit my family in Arkansas about once a year, I haven't been to Branson in quite a while! I'm not sure what's still there, especially after Covid.

[@notyouagain7220]

Lmao the south is always better than northern democrat ran cities

[@MStClair-zk8vv]

You are a lovely, kind, wonderful woman, Lori. Thank you Nick, for letting her speak. Excellent interview.

[@TrimClem]

As other's have stated, your interview segment for "Unboxing Arkansas" was in my opinion the best yet in the Unboxing series. It literally had my wife and me in tears. We greatly enjoy watching your and Brigg's channels, which led us to cancel our HBO Max and Netflix subscriptions.

[@sophiafaithmike5005]

Hi inbox me Trimclem

[@katel3962]

Yea! It's Tuesday and time for new material from Nick 👏👏👏 Just when I thought I was going to have to be productive today, I can lay back down on the couch 🤣 well, for a few minutes anyway 🤣

[@jackfegelman3907]

This unboxing series is the best on KZbin!!

[@miked7212]

True

[@Noobtubeguy]

I agree

[@3400troost]

Game changer!!!!!

[@drewmichaelbelliveau]

NO CAP

[@stevejohnson56]

💯%

[@lifebybill1326]

I grew up in Arkansas.... about 25 miles north of Little Rock on western edge of Pulaski county. I lived in the hills. I loved to hunt, fish, camp, go mudding, frog gigging, etc. I graduated in the top 5% of my class, spent 23 years in the Army, got a degree in history and speak three languages. Never smoke Meth, coke, heroin, crack or any other illegal drug. Im in shape, never had a mullett, have all my teeth, have one mother for all four of my children, never been to jail or any of my relatives that matter. I don't like NASCAR or pro wrestling. The stereotypes are true for a reason, no more than any other "southern state" but we do have success stories

[@brianmatthews4149]

Good point bro.

[@lifebybill1326]

@S S after both my parents passed away, I had no family in Arkansas. I spent from 18 to 41 in the army....lost all connections once my mom died 2 years ago. Love in Oklahoma now, but I will always and forever be a razorback!!

[@altheawarren729]

Your comment made me smile!!😊❤️

[@naturalstategovernmentacco5247]

For the most part, I really like being here. I moved here from that fire pit California in 2017. I've noticed that people are more real out here than they are along the west coast, and are not afraid to just be themselves. One example is, what you see on a Sunday morning is what you get for the rest of the week. In California, many people seem kind and caring on Sunday, then pretend they don't even know you for six days... That was always frustrating to me. None of that out here that I've noticed. As far as my shopping, I'm a Harps guy when it comes to my groceries and support the small mom and pop shops for everything else. There are a few issues in my area with local government overstepping its bounds, but not like the west coast. Overall, Arkansas is a great place to be.

[@_zombie_0889]

Harps is a really good store for groceries

[@amilton1015]

Thank you Nick from Brazil/Curitiba. I learn a lot of with your video. Audio always perfect.

[@timadams940]

This interview with Lori should be a powerful reminder to Nick how his assessments of these poor communities might impact big-hearted types like her...but I really appreciate him giving her the opportunity to express herself....I think, with her experience, big heart and concerns for youth, she would make an excellent teacher or teaching assistant...hopefully she can find a community that is deserving of her contributions and one where she can thrive

[@NickJohnson]

She is a teacher Tim.

[@timadams940]

@@NickJohnson Ahh, makes sense...

[@lorirobertson643]

I work with developmentally disabled adults. It the most rewarding job I've ever experienced. Immediate gratification. I don't have to wait for an annual review only to have someone tell me I've been doing it wrong for a year. I pushed paper for other people & it just wasn't me. I love working with my friends! I think I need them as much as they need me. Probably more!!

[@peregrination3643]

@@lorirobertson643 Lovely to see you in the comments, Lori! I live in Arkansas, but I still learned a lot from your interview. Take care.

[@lorirobertson643]

@@peregrination3643 I literally just commented to you on another thread. So grateful for the opportunity to share & glad you learned something. It means a lot that you have chosen to stay in Arkansas. Stay cool. Its a sauna out there!

[@auntgracie4826]

I really enjoyed listening to your guest. She was articulate and honest regarding the problems in Pine Bluff. May God bless her

[@joyful1blessed1]

My husband lived in Searcy. Mountain View and Blanchard Springs is our favorite cause it’s peaceful, friendly people and always feels like home.

[@LeveyHere]

To me Arkansas seems like Mississippi and Tennessee's child, but CPS took it away and was raised to adulthood by Alabama

[@colby9743]

Oh my🤭

[@dauntae24]

Nice. Then its probably poor and votes against its own self interest.

[@karoberts2198]

Is this the state where landlords can throw you out regardless of whether you are current on your rent ( for no good reason)?

[@tomcam77]

Damn I live in Arkansas! And that sounds spot on 😆

[@gjh9299]

@@karoberts2198 yes. I saw that in a Vice documentary

[@larrytucker222]

Moved to Northwest Arkansas in 2005. Good overview video. Like any place, their is good and bad. You choose which one you focus on.

[@dlane7539]

Arkansas is beautiful. I was born & raised in WA state & spent 6 mos in a small town about 80 miles from little rock. I loved it except humidity.

[@edwardblasingame9002]

You know it's amazing watching this. I grew up and went to school in Arkansas back in the bad old days managed to finish the eighth grade. Before having to go to work and help support the family. With that eighth-grade education I went into the military educated myself and managed to get two Associate's degrees on my own. Back in the fifties and early sixties, you had to pay for your books in high school and workbooks and many families couldn't afford it. Especially if you had more than two or three kids and high school's the same time. But there were ways to make money at various jobs that you can't do today because laws have changed! Many of the changes today I feel contribute to the detriment of American society

[@HYPERPANTHER]

This was the best interview so far. You're like a youtube Studs Terkel. I'd be interested in more long-form interviews with normal people and their experiences.

[@NickJohnson]

Maybe I will!

[@NickJohnson]

Studs!

[@jopiaspieder1184]

I remember HBO shooting a documentary in Little Rock called Banging in Little Rock which was about the problem with the gang violence they had there

[@lutherheggs]

I love Arkansas. My dad's family is based there, in Parron, Saline County. My dad just happened to pass away and left us in Dallas. The lady is wrong about Clinton. That was actually a high point. Hot Springs even had these free trolley's that toured the city. The Bush era, both of them , is when Arkansas got the imperial pecker-roonie. But more than that, the state just doesn't dress for success. The labor force is poorly educated.Retiree's on government and military pensions do fine there. But the locals are expected to be grateful for low paying jobs.

[@jeffgualandijr9420]

that got so much deeper than I ever dreamed it would. its why this kind of content is worth it. it goes so much farther when theres heart in it.

[@NickJohnson]

Yes

[@senatorclaydavis5539]

Love to see the unboxing videos get longer, very informative for an european like myself.

[@philipfrandsen1856]

The woman you interviewed is so real and true - I listened with fascination, sadness, and wonder.

[@lorirobertson643]

Thank you for listening 💜

[@philipfrandsen1856]

@@lorirobertson643 You're welcome. I think you gave a very good historical account of why your area is having economic problems (and the problems that come from them). Wow - to actually hear from a person in a youtube video is interesting! This is my first time. Bless you, and everyone there. Philip from Montana

[@candissparker2608]

The first interview is really good. The woman being interviewed is clearly a thoughtful and grounded person. Its nice to hear a take on the state of economy in AR that is so reasonable and coherent.

[@melenemetinameibrown5452]

What a lovely honest lady. Her grandkids are blessed to have her.💗

[@theearl9963]

Thank goodness Hilary assumed human form for that photo. Oh and by the way it is illegal to marry your first cousin in Arkansas. It is NOT illegal to marry your first cousin in New York or California.

[@NickJohnson]

I said that

[@madeofcheese9152]

@@NickJohnson Which one - the cousin marrying thing or the Hilary being a lizard person?

[@jacqdanieles]

Hilarious that a law would have to be passed in the first place ...

[@hungariancuman2835]

As a Hungarian I love these series...I'm interested in the US but we know very little abaut it.

[@toffytofu3891]

🇺🇸 ❤️ 🇭🇺

[@dansugardude2655]

He should unbox Hungary or even try unboxing each of the 19 counties!

[@hungariancuman2835]

@@dansugardude2655 Hungary is basicly the Louisiana of Europe...

[@housinauthority5258]

@@hungariancuman2835 I have travelled all over Europe, I am from England. The worst poverty I saw was in Hungary!

[@hungariancuman2835]

@@housinauthority5258 We have prety bad places but its not the worst by far...slums in Slovakia and Romania are way worse.

[@brydgetburke341]

Gosh I love your channel!!! And your mullet hat and songs!! 🎵 🤣 you always give such great information about each state that people should really actually know. 👏

[@maryjones2992]

Proud to call Bella Vista, Arkansas home. Heaven on earth so beautiful. Lots of opportunity and great schools. Tons of outdoor activities.

[@SmartMouthLife]

Nick! I kept waiting for you to talk about the dumpster fire that is the Dugger family. They’re from Arkansas! Lol

[@NickJohnson]

Damn!!

[@lorirobertson643]

Omg! 😂 There are things that even no self-respecting Arkansan will speak of. Besides, they live in the "good part" 😳

[@peregrination3643]

Thanks to Nick, when people ask me where on Arkansas I live, I can officially say, "The 'good part'."

[@user-mq1uw5ht9k]

I moved to Arkansas 3 years ago.Small town, about 1500 people.I came here from phoenix arizona and I love it here

[@ES-bn1bi]

Excellent video! Thank you Nick Johnson. I agree with other commenters that your interview style is refreshing, relaxing and revealing. It was so nice that you allowed her to speak and you asked just the right amount of great questions. I can barely find anyone who actually listens these days. Well done! Keep it up.

[@CJColvin]

The highest point in Arkansas is Mount Magazine. The elevation is 2,730 feet above sea level and it's between the Ozark National Forest and the Ouachita National Forest.

[@destininewby8837]

I was looking for this comment ! I live at the bottom of Magazine Mt .

[@CJColvin]

@@destininewby8837 Awesome brother. Are you by the Ozark mountains or the Ouachita Mountains.

[@destininewby8837]

Quachia south side of the Mt. It takes us about 20 minutes to get up the Mountain

[@CJColvin]

@@destininewby8837 Oh ok

[@Klatt109]

I've been there! It's BEAUTIFUL!!

[@EricPS]

Wow, wow, wow. This was one of the best interviews you've done. I'm still kind of emotional over this one. I could really feel her pain. She really cares about her area and her state. She remembers the more prosperous times in her community and really is sad about how it has fallen on hard times. This was very heartfelt. If only there were more people like her, a lot of areas would be a whole lot better. Cheers to you Nick for hopefully opening a lot more people's eyes. I know you did mine.

[@lorirobertson643]

Thank you for listening & understanding my frustration 💜. Hopefully this will fall on the ears of someone who has the ability to affect change. I recently found out Bill Gates is the single largest land owner in Arkansas. I didn't realize he was into farming. I wonder if his intentions are to help Arkansas prosper or to keep the majority of it poor & needy.... Hmmmm..... 🤔

[@ErnieHatmaker]

Arkansas is one of the best places to live if you're going off grid, and not just Northwest Arkansas. It has fewer off grid restrictions than a lot of states, and TONS of people are moving to places like Mountain Home and Booneville because the land is very inexpensive. There are some places you won't catch me after sunset, but that's just about everywhere in the US. Nothing open after midnight except legs and the ER...

[@tiffanymendoza9523]

I was born and raised in Fort Smith and then I lived in Alma for about 12 years. My husband and I ended up moving to Charleston, SC because there is a lot more opportunity here and the jobs pay a lot better. My husband makes almost three times as much here compared to his Arkansas salary and his hours are lower so we're able to do more together as a family. While I miss my family in Arkansas and I miss the natural beauty of the Ozarks and Boston mountains, I don't think I'll ever return to Arkansas. Even with the incredibly low cost of living, it was a struggle to survive there.

[@bianca8096]

I’m born and raised in Fort Smith as well! Love living here. It’s really a beautiful state, but also thinking about relocating as well in a couple of years after getting married. I would definitely say that the Northwest part of the state is a great place to raise a family.

[@dirtydinner6463]

Northwest Arkansas is one of the best areas in the country to live right now. Amazing jobs at some of the biggest companies in the country and a low cost of living.

[@IDF1987]

And our home values have blown up

[@dirtydinner6463]

@@IDF1987 nothing compared to what is happening in Utah, Idaho, And Colorado. Consider yourself lucky

[@Tikitackfouls]

@@dirtydinner6463 and TX too, right?

[@dirtydinner6463]

@@Tikitackfouls Especially Texas!

[@susanross6362]

@@dirtydinner6463 And Arizona.....all the Cali, Oregon and Washington state people moving here

[@Darrylizer1]

Hope Arkansas is also home to the Klipsch loudspeaker company. One of the oldest speaker manufacturers in the United States and some of the best speakers made anywhere.

[@billding7073]

Nick, you've outdone yourself with this take on Arkansas. It's Kansas with a broken neck.

[@insanitypepper1740]

Wal-Mart destroyed Main Street USA.

[@JamesKPolk-ik6kg]

How? By beating main Street USA at their own game?

[@billh.1940]

​​@@JamesKPolk-ik6kg no by empting out downtowns and moving profits out of town and state. By not replacing lost jobs. Everywhere Walmart and big malls went, devastation followed. Small towns just dried up.

[@moonshinefuel]

Really enjoyed hearing the woman from Arkansas interview. In the back of my mind when she's talking about jobs, I hear what she's saying but obviously it's not a localized thing, it's everywhere. There's been a fundamental shift of employment itself in the United States, the ways and means of income production.

[@OhPhuckYou]

It's a different story in Arkansas. There really are no decent paying jobs in the majority of the state. Arkansas has always lacked good employment, and Arkansas is suffering the worse as the entire US job market crumbles. This causes the effect that the people in Arkansas often are not high quality employees. It's sad as the people in Arkansas are truly beautiful people as a whole, and the state is one of the most beautiful states in USA. I absolutely love visiting Arkansas, and if it wasn't for their economy, I'd move there. Maybe I'll retire on an Arkansas mountainside.

[@ttime5756]

I’ve been to Arkansas on the west side. Near hot springs. It’s very nice with rolling green hills, plenty of forest and beautiful ozark mountains. I would move to Arkansas if there were more opportunities for employment.

[@heidistanton4583]

I'm driving through Ozark Arkansas right now, listening to this interview. I love this lady! I work with disabled kids and adults too. I thought maybe Arkansas would be a great place to live, so pretty! But like so much of the country going down hill. So sad. Wish I could help some how. Hell I'll move here give it go. The advice on your channel is invaluable. All my love and prayers for Arkansas and the kind folks! Thanks Nick!

[@NickJohnson]

Ok Heidi!

[@annk206]

Ozark is a corrupt town. The PD is an joke. A very sad one.

[@amberspencer2443]

I've lived in paragould(town beside jonesboro) Arkansas for 31 years now. I hate it lol. The humidity is ridiculous.

[@NickJohnson]

Humid needs an emoji like this 😓

[@thecollectoronthecorner7061]

Best thing about Paragould Is George Rays Dragstrip. Wildcat drag racing every Sunday weather permitting. still using the same outhouses they had in 62 when it first opened. NHRA not welcome

[@brianmatthews4149]

Nothing like damp hair all day.

[@TheFamousMockingbird]

That's rough. My dad is from Paragould and my grandparents are buried there, its been a while since I've been there but I used to visit growing up in the 90s and early 2000s and the only thing I can even remember was like an old RC Cola building

[@KevSon29]

I love this channel. Keep up the good work 😃👍

[@brbhave2p00p4]

Can’t understand how you can hold yourself from laughing, at least you know what humor is

[@Bob-jm8kl]

I did a road trip through NW Arkansas. The nature was so beautiful as were some towns. Even the abandoned and dilapidated places here and there were picturesque in their way. Although far the NW was boring anyplace field and suburb USA. The people were really friendly and would talk your ear off. Being an urbanite, I was like can I just buy the gas? As they say there, "Have a blessed day."

[@fuelinjecteddreams]

I’ve lived in AR for 30 years, this video is 100% on point.

[@toddedwards1371]

I've lived her 37 years n he butchered it!

[@vantastic9367]

Except for the minority part, lots of minorities in Arkansas 75% in Pine Bluff.

[@jackscinema1706]

Agreed it was on point I lived there for 2 years so I have a sense of Arkansas

[@dennissmallwood9592]

Move out of Arkansas if you think it is bad. He makes fun of every state.

[@allison2242]

I’ve lived here for 35yrs. I was born and raised in the upper delta! I don’t hate it at all, but I’ve NEVER heard anyone call a tornado shelter a “friedy hole” or however he spelt it lol

[@anthonyoram7614]

Im driving through Arkansas right now on the way to Nashville.

[@brookelounsbury1843]

That was the first time I saw Arkansas too

[@matthewcarriuolo3855]

Thanks for another wonderful video, Nick. I love how you manage to find diamonds in the rough for your videos--like the diamonds in central Arkansas! I also never realized before that the economy of most of Arkansas was hurt so much by NAFTA. It is indeed ironic that Bill Clinton hurt his own home state by signing it. Lori is so humble. It was striking to see how she still doesn't blame Clinton for the bad economy in Arkansas despite knowing the effects of NAFTA. I hope places like Pine Bluff can rise from the ashes some day. On a different note, it feels like Mappy and his family haven't been around much lately. Will they make an appearance in the Unboxing Iowa video? I hope so!

[@sarahthompson2965]

To the guest on this video, Lori - I don’t know if you’ll see this comment or not... but I just wanted to tell you to hold on! Don’t give up hope on Pine Bluff! I grew up in a small town in North Texas and left for NYC the minute I could get out of there... but now after 7 years in the city, I’m returning to my hometown to start a small business and use what I’ve learned to help benefit my small town. There is always hope that your grandson will return to do big things in your area! Life in the cities isn’t like it used to be.. and even at its best, inevitably gets old. Just be patient, stay warm, open, and inviting to those that have moved away, and good things will surely come your way! Have faith, and trust in God! :)

[@saravahgebrehawariat9493]

I was just in Scottsdale, AZ for three months and I live in Northern VA. Whilst I loathe politics, but both locations are relatively democratic by the way. When I look at videos like this, it makes the US appear like two different countries. It's so sad. The one positive I can find in this whole video is: at least they don't pay $1.5 mil for a shoebox as a house. My heart goes out to those living in the state. Interesting interview by the way.

[@chriskelly509]

I love it here, but I'm in a good area, I did my research before moving here.

[@jondstewart]

The more desirable of a place to live, the more you’ll pay for a home. $100,000 will buy you a decent home in most of the state for what will cost you $1.5 million in most of coastal California.

[@Just_JennAy]

@@chriskelly509 I've been here my whole life... in Central Arkansas... what area did you move to?

[@chriskelly509]

@@Just_JennAy had a house built in Cabot

[@diresa22]

When I was in the Army, I was sent to PEC in North little rock for training. I always wondered why the crime rate in Arkansas if they have a church every other block.

[@StallionFernando]

I'm a Christian and this was my first question, I guess more wolves in sheep clothing.

[@CamiMack13]

I have lived in Fort Smith for 24 years, and I didn’t know it was a bad place! We are actually the 2nd largest city in Arkansas.

[@Hopeguz3]

It’s not bad, but uh the utilities are going up. It’s expensive to live in Fort Smith from a utilities standpoint. Didn’t you or someone have a sky high water bill?

[@CamiMack13]

@@Hopeguz3 Yes! I agree that the utilities are too high for a town in the South.

[@woneymalian4513]

"Now here's a good song about Arkansas.." *pause...* spits* ahahahahah great video, Nick!

[@jeffsea6490]

*Gr8 video with excellent interesting content and cool shopping graphics in Wal Mart.Wonderful , the enjoyable interview from an intelligent woman was top shelf.* _good job on the song, get a haircut_ *Thanks for sharing Nick & Sage* 👍🇺🇲

[@jeffsea6490]

*Both Clinton's should be in Prison* 🇺🇲

[@user-fb2xs7kg2n]

finally, I have been waiting for this one long time. Love Arkansas

[@NickJohnson]

Just for you!

[@ts1809]

@@NickJohnson hey Nick, what’s your email? I’ve been thinking about moving to Arkansas. Lol

[@karengoodman1678]

I'M BLACK AND AS I'M WATCHING THIS, I AM THINKING TO MYSELF, "WHERE'S THE WHITE PRIVELEGE?" THAT WE'VE BEEN HEARING SO MUCH ABOUT LATELY. DON'T BELIEVE THE HYPE PEOPLE!!!

[@CrystinAmber]

you're kidding right?

[@PranaChi369]

Shut Up🤣

[@alicearcturus8610]

I moved here about 8 years ago. I am am not a church going conservative type. People are not overly friendly but they leave you alone to live like you want. Where I live, there is little crime and it is beautiful. Takes me a half hour to get to town. Hate the long humid summers, recluse spiders and ticks. Fall through spring is wonderful, mostly. I live in the Ozarks.