How I Got Started in the Outdoors and on YouTube | Interview by Swift Canoe and Kayak 

Sometimes, when I feel stressed being a working mother, I watch one of these videos and I'm filled with hope that I too can one day, do what makes me happy and really find myself... Shawn's life brings my blood pressure down. :-)

Every time I see Calli, I say, boy do I wish I had that dog! She's so beautiful. I love the way she looks when she's trying to figure out what Shawn is doing.

At 4 yrs old my parents dragged my whining butt into Algonquin and had to carry the Billy pack on portages. Had to paddle a Chestnut Bob Special day after day, but I learned more from those trips every Summer then from anything else. Realized that nature stirred my soul at a very young age and need it to this day. In my middle age I appreciate my cabin and the wild nature that surrounds it.

Look at the dog. See how much she enjoys cuddling. that's lovely

Thank you for your insight. I just turned 60 this year and spent more than half the year in SA. During my stay due to the Pandemic I worked every day outside doing landscaping, tilling and planting. I used to be a corporate executive and I donot regret one moment working outside in the land. I am the fittest I've ever been.

God i love it when the interviewers ask the right questions, and understand what questions the viewers want answers to. I also love the honest human answers given by Shawn here.

I grew up off grid in a log house/ranch with many horses, no electric. It made my siblings slightly more innovative and creative than most. I would be doing what you're doing, minus the camera but an accident left me physically unable to. So I sure appreciate your channel that allows me to live through your experience. You are truly a gift to your viewers thanks and God bless...

Shawn your moral compass is spot on. Forward on brave soul. God Bless my friend.

That was so nice paying attention to your furbaby while being interviewed.

I love Shawn & his videos. He is so humble, calming & honest. I love sweet Cali & want to give her hugs everyday. 🐶❤️. I look forward to each new videos coming up.

I'm only 8 minutes in and this has been one of the smoothest interviews I've ever watched. Awesome job to both of you. 👍👍👍👍

10:40 love hearing the geese! And the wind. I'm in Saudi Arabia where there are no geese

Shawn, I first found you while researching ideas on how to convert an old shed on my daughter's property on the edge of her 5 acres of forest into my little dream cabin. I envisioned turning it into something I could live in if/when I get "old". I am going for my picture of off grid and to be the most self-sufficient that would be comfortably and safely possible. Just watching you working gives me ideas on how I can get my next project to work for me. I found your comment in this video about being in the best shape of your life resonated with me. I have to agree with you how hard, physical work changes not only your muscle tone but your mental health, physical health and overall well-being. I've been working on my "Shed" for the last 7 months and have never been in such great shape regarding all those areas in all my 59 years. Kudos to you for all the hard work that you do, including making the videos so well that they stand out and are a great source of entertainment and information. To everyone who yearns for this kind of lifestyle, I suggest: You CAN do this, maybe not exactly this way, but in your own way however small and insignificant you may think it is. I am a grandma with a full-time job and lots of responsibilities, but love the time I have on weekends and after work to keep walking towards a dream. Thanks, Shawn, for sharing your perspective.

Watched Two Years . . . a couple of times quite a while back. Have to write that I was hesitant to hear you speak, but you're just as calm and relaxing as when you don't--a rarity among people. Top-notch content.

Its almost 5am ,iv been stuck on your channel since 11 pm. Wooo its intoxicating nature is wonderful ,sure wish i was living this way

He is an excellent videographer. His shot selection, framing and editing is excellent. And resembling Kevin Cosner doesnt hurt.

This statement from an unknown writer also applies to you sir Shawn "Success often comes to those who dare and act, it seldom goes to the timid who is afraid of the consequences". Continue reaping the fruits of your toil. Stay healthy, humble and kind. You are blessed!

You my friend exemplify what being " Canadian " is!!! Tradesman, businessman and philosopher all wrapped in one!!

As crazy as the world is today it would be wonderful to be in your position, keep living the good life and keep the videos coming.

Nice! I really enjoyed this interview. First time paddling. Idaho. Last camp of the season. My experience of water was from the shore or swimming, but there were canoes all along the beach, lined up, waiting to be put away for winter. I borrowed one. First impression; how effortlessly it slid into the water and the currents of water that ran along each side. Second impression; it was made to be comfortable in the water and create a marriage between the paddler and the water itself, like a communicator for nature, a link between two worlds. Third impression; movement, fast, swift, glorious, the entire lake was suddenly available to me. Fourth impression; sound, paddle dipping in water, boat passing through crystal clear lake water and then silence. The paddle in my hands felt like a memory from a long past life; familiar, comfy. Life changing.

You deserve to live the way you choose to Shawn, I wish you all the success 100 fold on your RU-vid Venture To me it is completely surreal and at times, completely speechless with the Country in which you inhabit. I can only keep dreaming of living that lifestyle in which I did have plans for. Unfortunately I have been struck with a low blow by life in the form of a Disease that will someday take my life in the next 6 to 8 years. What I have left is my beautiful two daughters, All grown up now with family's of their own. These are the things I cherish now. Neither money nor assets bother me anymore but to see out my days doing the things I love to do which is spending time in the bush with my rifles with meat a plenty and the beautiful land we live in. The simple yet still achievable things I can still do I will do until I cant anymore. This is why I watch yours, Teds( Whom has become a friend ) Doug, Joe and your circle basically, The video's give me peace and tranquility even though I am so far away. My respect for you and the above mentioned is Immense and I would like to say thank you so much for helping me find this inner peace that your videos bring to me. To you Sir, I charge my glass. God Bless you. - Skorp, Western Australia.

I just have to say “Thank God for Dogs”! Cali is a sweat heart, she reminds me of my Great Pyrenees “Rayne”. I could see her acting just like Cali does if we lived this life! So much fun and great companionship from dogs. They truly are Mans or Woman’s Best Friends!! Cheers 🇨🇦

Awesome interview and insight! At 62 I totally relate to the "... I don't have to prove anything...", I've done solo late winter kayak trips, I've jumped out of airplanes, I've done the survival stuff with only a small bag of rice... enjoy what you do and do what you enjoy. I enjoy doing for myself and being self sufficient, I also enjoy teaching my Grandkids how to do things, so I'll continue to do what I enjoy.

You're wife must be an amazing person, as you are. I enjoy the silence while you work. So nice to just watch you do your thing.

*Gee,.... this video is **_so_** grounded & down to earth,... I could almost swear I was sensing the smell of that woodsmoke, and that priceless Callie! . . . - Incredible Shawn!* ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Excellent Interview Inspiring stuff and great life advice thank you for sharing

Sometimes, analysis of the "whys" gets in the way of the enjoyment. The poet Walt Whitman said it in his work, "When I Heard the Learn’d Astronomer" When I heard the learn’d astronomer, When the proofs, the figures, were ranged in columns before me, When I was shown the charts and diagrams, to add, divide, and measure them, When I sitting heard the astronomer where he lectured with much applause in the lecture-room, How soon unaccountable I became tired and sick, Till rising and gliding out I wander’d off by myself, In the mystical moist night-air, and from time to time, Look’d up in perfect silence at the stars.

Congrats to the 1 million subs on MSR channel ✌️😎

Shawn, I also grew up on the outskirts of Newmarket and we also went to those farmers fields after school, my parents would tell us to come home when you see the street lights come on. LOL. Upper Canada Mall and the surrounding subdivisions now sit on those farmers fields. I also did quite a bit of canoeing and sailing on Lake Simcoe where we have a cottage around Sibbald Point Provincial Park. I've lived in BC for about 25 years now right by Golden Ears provincial park and I continue to enjoy the outdoors hiking there and everywhere in BC. I thoroughly enjoy watching your videos and have been talking to some of my students about your videos. I even have you linked on my homepage at my school so the kids can see all the awesome things you do. Keep filming Shawn, I wonder if the fields were the same ones you experienced in your early days?

OK, since someone is asking (Yay!) here is what I want. I want Shawn to do a video on (drumroll) sharpening blades. *All* of them, starting with his favorite knife. Including axes, chainsaw blades, chisels, draw knives, braces, etc. With stone, leather strop, file, all of it. Then I want a video on figuring out how to design a build with stones, like the forest kitchen or a hearth inside the cabin.. Those are the two things I would most like to see, and which I have not seen so far. I feel eternal gratitude, Shawn, for this landmark work of yours, documenting your cabin life and its fascinating evolution. WHAT a body of work, and WHAT a legacy! Bravo!

When I was younger I had a job detailing cars, I learned more about management and business, customer service skills than I ever would have gotten from taking a class on it. You never know how things will come together for you on down the road.

I stumbled across your channel about 2 years ago. I am a medium maintainance woman that was raised in Toronto but spent my summers and some winters on Georgian Bay as a kid and young adult. I miss that simplicity. We had our own veggie garden, berry bushes, wild blueberries, and fish. I can really appreciate this lifestyle, as a way to connect to what is most important and ofcourse selfreliance :-) Keep on, keepin on!

Love the sound of migrating geese. They have adjusted their flight path from Western KY to Missouri! When I lived in Texas and out working in my garden when they flew over, cranes and geese, I stopped working and just enjoyed the moment! I miss those sounds.

Your thoughts about the meaningfulness of one's days being related to the directness of one's connection really resonates with me. I'm not sure if it was here or on the longer Swift video, but you talk somewhere about the direct/tangible rewards of the physical daily work and that really hit home with me. When I am out there on a backcountry trip for 2 weeks, 4 weeks, the rhythm and simplicity (not 'ease') of the days fills me in a way I haven't quite understood, or perhaps named in the same way as this, but felt. No need to distract myself with either technology or the somewhat neurotic busyness I can find myself drawn into in the 'ease of modern life' at home (which you also speak of). Out there, the day is prescribed by gathering wood, making fire, preparing food, pitching shelter, moving camp - self-propelling my body via paddle or portage from here to there . Also, there is the paying attention via the camera for me. I have felt it as a full-bodied, full-sensed Presence-- which in our modern life we are perhaps attempting to recapture through practices such as meditation and mindfulness because our lives are so distracted. I hear you suggesting that is perhaps because we don't need to be present. Coming back out from the backcountry leaves me feeling disoriented, at a loss, and, paradoxically, even anxious about what I "should" be doing with my time. Your insights about that really ring true for me. Thank you.

You know what's amazing? Someone living out their goals and dreams. Inspiration raw. Love it! I'm living out my dream as well! I share your passion for the wilderness. Rock on!!!!

I always enjoy hearing Mr. Shawn's story of why he decided to go back to nature. I totally understand ( just a little bit) how it feels. I'm sixty eight and all I want is a couple of acres for a giant garden and some laying hens.

I stumbled onto one of Shawn James videos, next thing I was hooked. I watch his videos all the time. What an amazing life style, living off the grid and enjoying it the way he does. Simple life is the way to go. Thank you for sharing your life with us.

Bless this man and his family...reminds me so much of my bro who passed in 2018...miss you Stash...hugs from AZ🏵️🌵🦁I've lived in Sitka Alaska and spent time at Algonquin Provincial Park... wonderful!!

My dream is to retire from the military and move back to Newfoundland and adopt a similar lifestyle. I always watch Shawn when I want to relax.

Thank you for being unselfish with your time and wanting to share you experience and what you have learned.

Such a humble man. Great video. Always love seeing Cali, she's such a Ham.

Really enjoyed this one alot! I could listen to y'all chat all day!

Love watching your videos while having my morning coffee.

Like so many other people, my initial response was like losing a friend. Ive watched your channel for a couple years and always look forward to watching how your next project will come together. While your decision to pack up and start over was shocking at first, I completely agree with your reasoning behind the decision. I live in the US and grew up on stories of American pioneers and trailblazers constantly uprooting to start over in more isolated frontiers when people caught up with them. Your story draws me in. I am 65. Retired 3 years ago and am finally able to do some things I never had time for working long hours. I built a 24x32 workshop in my back yard for the adventure and because its something I had never had any experience doing before. My age (and general health) limit my freedom to search for what you've found. I have a certain amount of envy in watching you be able to live free from so many parts of our lifestyle that dictate what we HAVE to do. My point is, Im too old to go to the extent that you have, and while Im more of a people person than you, I applaud your decision. Certainly, this lifestyle must weigh heavily on your family as well. Keep up the activity of sharing with those of us that tune in once or twice a week. Lots of us will be excited to watch you begin creating your new existance out of mother nature's offering once again. Who knows, I may start a new project myself!! Guys like you make a difference for us.

A tip I learned from the Mountain Men TV show (History Channel) was piling up a LOT of pine branches and sleeping on top of that in the winter. Oh, and double sleeping bag.

Great intro for new viewers. Link to lists of all of them. Cabin (exterior, interior), outhouse, wood area, outdoor kitchen, bath cabin, longhouse...etc. Great as always. Bless and thankful

Answering to what your friend said: You also connect with people...We are here watching your life style...that we would also would like to have...

That crackling fire sound is so satisfying. Learn, teach, live, love.

Just two days ago I met someone ( in NYC ) who watches your channel as well and loves it. You are widely admired, and I think it’s about making difficult decisions. It’s hard to come out of the comfort zone.

To watch this is to feel at peace with the world and with oneself.

Ride the moment til wind blows a different way. Life is worth sharing. It’s the success the allows you to live forever...well kinda. This channel is full of inspiration to creating life outdoors!

Nice to see both your channels grow. You certainly deserve all the good things coming your way.

I love how you talk so much about self reliance and wilderness survival and just all around outdoors! Alot of the stuff you show and talk about are what I learned becoming an Eagle scout! Takes me back. So many skills and life lessons I'll carry with me forever! Love the channel!

Fishing streams for chubs. As a grandson on Grandpa Jude's farm in Kentucky I also fished for chubs in a stream about 20' wide and 1-3" deep and caught em up to 14" long. Great memories and thanks for the reminder Sir

What's so refreshing about this man's channel and character is he doesn't feel the need to degrade, guilt or scold others for how they live. Something as simple as saying he appreciates all those who came before him and created or had a hand in the products he still uses speaks volumes. Millennials have a tendency to degrade others while explaining their choices..but he is just a genuine and realistic good man.

Shawn. Thanks so much for showing this interview. I’ve been watching your channel since near the outset. I love what I’ve learned, love your beautiful photography and I’ve loved living vicariously, through you, my own off-grid house-building and living desires (I’m an architect and contractor, wood worker, etc.). But I, like many I’m sure, have been unable to make that dream happen (at least so far), so living through you is a close 2nd! Thank you! Like you, I’m a hands on guy too who has worked hard and also stumbled in business, and shared your concerns about being able to adequately provide for my family, future and retirement and the like. But I prevailed I’m happy to say. Now, with this video I now better relate to you and appreciate your journey all the more. Great!

Shawn, You make everything look so easy! God Bless You, Shawn ! Callie looks so happy, she always does!

This is one of best ideas as to where and what to with young teens that come from hard places. It would be so inspirational and uplifting to be self reliant early on in life. (Please pass this on to therapist, counselors, treatment centers, Caseworkers. It's really worth a try, because something is definitely not working in the system!). This is definitely "The Life". ☑️

I know a little bit about fixing stuff, I was trained to repair and refinish antique furniture by a 75-year-old cabinet builder, and I'll tell you what this guy can build the best cabin in existence, he is very highly talented and skilled 👍👍👍📢👍👍👍

Ontario ,an incredible place to visit . & still a source of incredible experiences

Your countance is always exhuming humbleness, and it has made you a very knowledgeable man. I agree with all you said. You learned from your mistakes, you march forward with determination and drive, for not only you, but your family. The accomplishments are gratifying and I fell in love with your channel because of you. Im sure you Shawn, have set an example for many men, and they look up to you. Thank you for sharing it all with us. You found your calling. ❤️❤️❤️

I enjoy looking at Shawn n hearing of his outdoors experience his ups n down in life n his turn around to a simple life giving much happiness in returning to this life style.

I frist found you when you had just started the cabin and at the time it was what i was looking for and also the way it was presented .... little talk just you building ... dont think ive missed an epp since .... great work and look forward to each new epp that comes out

Morning Brother.was thinking of you this morning. I’m about to install cabin door . Long ways yet but you’ve inspired me often. Thanks keep it up.

I was fortunate enough to visit Pigeon Lake a couple times and it was incredible! The sunrise was amazing and so was the fishing.

Revisited this video a few times ,, a great talk on the porch ... Love how Cali determines when enough talking ,, throw my toy ,, I can't imagine what your life would be without her.... she is the answer to every man caught up in the thoughts of reason.... Gotta love that dog ......we all do !!.......... Stay Safe Shawn and God Bless .....

This chap gave one the best interviews i have ever seen.

. Best interview EVER. Thanks again Shawn for sharing this 'big' chapter of your life with us. Haven't missed a video since you broke ground for the cabin. Simply put, You're a Helluva Guy!

Thank you both. I can't wait to get up north and start working on my property.

I love listening to you talk Shawn. Your entire vision is just so brilliant. I am working so hard to become “Self Reliant.” Thank you for sharing your vision with us.💖

Your skillsets and the transformation from urban life style to self reliance in the 21st century made me start following you since last December. However, above all it is your candidness and humility that makes me watch always. Keep it coming Shawn!!! Hats off to you for inspiring.

Thank you Scott and Shawn. I learned more than I thought I would. The spreadsheet lists for weight and calories are a great idea. Spending the time learning about threats with the elements, wildlife and not needing to prove things that require taking risks. Dressing properly for cold, sun, warm and bugs.

I must say, i have enjoyed every video that you have made. What a clean, enjoyful life this must be. My dad was a awesome builder and only finished 3rd grade, not by choice, was after his mother died at a very young age, he had to help around the house. My dad was born in 1911, and he lived to be 100 and still had sound mind. It was common then for kids to quit school to help at home. My dad had jobs he was very good at, like welding, and worked for the railroad. He loved being on the outside and his favorite job was being a commercial fisherman. He would build the best wooden boats. When i was little i would sit with him while he built his boats and have always loved woodwork. I think about him when i watch your videos. It takes a lot of talent to build and i would love to live like you do and i have learned a lot. No matter what kind of job my dad had or how much money he made, he always went back to the outdoors commercial fishing. God didn't make people just alike. Each person should do what makes them happy. There are always someone that are going to be critical about anothers' lifestyle. I'm not sure these people are happy with themselves. My parents had 8 kids and they all love the outdoor life. Thanks for all these awesome videos.

Shawn I really enjoy your videos. I think you way of life is awesome . I always wanted to try that .never did but feel like I am when I watch you videos thank you sir. I live in the USA I am a disabled veteran ✌️🤜🤛

Awesome interview. Reminds me of my time in Algonquin park with my family camping. Our neighbors were outdoors type people that loved camping and the outdoors in general. They taught and showed us a way to make rope from the roots of a white spruce tree by stripping the bark down, parting the root with a knife and then boiling the roots in water to make them pliable and you ended up with rope that is stronger than regular rope. We also went on a wolf call which was an amazing experience. We also had a Coleman Scanoe that used a 1.5 hp trolling 2 stroke trolling motor that weighed only 12 pounds called a Cruise and Carry model 6600 that used a 25:1 gas mix that ran great.

you making lots of people happy by living 'your way' please keep on doing that.thank you

I love that you have been able to develop a dream. Thank you so much for bringing us along. I vividly remember PBS airing Dick Proenneke's adventures and Jacques Cousteau's adventures... Wild Kingdom and many other inspiring exploration series. Even NOVA kept me on the edge of my seat. Everyone dreams about and romanticizes about the of grid life. The reality is that WE NEED OUR NEIGHBOHRS. Even today working my every day job... I rely on my neighbors and they rely on me. We are a social creature and need the strengths of a community, no matter how far flung, to survive. We barter on our strengths to shore up our weakness and that is reciprocal. This applies to all segment of society.

Wow, it was interesting to hear about the meticulous planning of how much gear and food you take on a trip. This was a great interview, and nice to hear about your background and the decisions you made to reach your new lifestyle.

I love watching Shawn build a cabin.

I manage to spend some time up around Britt and the French River in the summers and I feel fortunate enough for my short periods of time up there. I'm jealous and happy that you live that way and are doing what you do. Love watching your videos 👍🏻

You can literally feel the atmosphere of the area itself. A real tangible authentic vibe to the whole lifestyle. Really awesome stuff! well done. And reference some other comments, if you loose the interest, you never had it !

I totally agree and inspired by your quote, " it is my responsibility and our responsibility to be the best person one can be. " to add to your statement, The more We become Our most authentic selves the better We will be to assist and serve people be there very best. I appreciate the fact that you said that the better person you are can provide you the opportunity to help people. Great video.

You Rock Shawn. YOu make me feel good everytime i watch you videos. We live somewhat similar to you (except we use power tools) but on the whole the same. Still, you inspire me everyday.

You, my dear adventurer, are a very interesting person. Your logic is so simple, it is our minds that make life complicated. Thanks for an interesting interview.

I think there is a lot of people who would love to be in the forest/ woods but are unable to. May be due to health or financial situations, but when they watch your channel it makes them feel like they are there experiencing the solitude of it all.

Successful RU-vid channels= Humble & Interesting personalities...plus "Pets" !!

It really is something when you have a love of the wilderness and all that comes with it, that is sticks with you all your life. I was brought up going to cottages in Sundridge ,Dorset etc. our Grandfather built our family cottages in Muskoka, camping around Ontario. Grew up in Toronto but was never a concrete jungle girl. It is lovely when your life takes a turn and things go full circle to what you truly love. Loved the question about where was your first paddle memory, I thought about my own.... rowing in a small boat in Sundridge on Lake Bernard and Canoeing on Lake Rosseau etc. as a young child and teen. Great times :) It is great to have that meditative place to go to when you need to unwind, mine is up north and always will be. Love the videos :)

Thanks for the promised " fireside chats " you talked about a few years ago at the cabin. Video was excellent.

My wife and I are from Indiana, USA. WE LOVE YOUR CHANNEL!!! in the spring we will be working on a cabin of our own.

Shawn, You got a beautiful life that we all can dream of. This is the best way human should live. Free from all the hectic life of the modern world. After all, what are we struggling for? just for a meal twice a day and a roof over our head. Which nature provides you in abundance.

It was a pleasure listening to you two.

Hi Shawn: I enjoyed hearing your early life experiences. Although we are close to 30 years apart in age, it is amazing how similar our starts are .1948 joining cubs & seeing a camp fire 1953, building shelters in a woodlot in Etobicoke .1952 my first scout camp in Muscoka & the chance to use a real canoe. 1954 - 1965 Wilderness near Kinmount, Ontario ,where I built a long cabin using the logs from a settlers cabin originally built in 1854. Like Anne of Green Gables "Kindred Spirits" Keep blazing trails Brian 79

Doing something you love keeps the stress away , keep up the good work and like you said take care of yourself .

this man is so crafty and humble ! what a cool dude man

I have only recently found Shawn’s channel but l have already fallen in love with his character.

This is 🐕great🐕 This brings us so much happiness!

I always enjoy watching your videos. I never know I am listening to a Canadian until they say a word with the letters "ou" in it. "Out" sounds like "oat" and "about" sounds like "a boat". Keep up the good work. I just watched your 1st 2020 video before this. Congrats.

Shawn every thing you make is perfection. But it looks like Cali steals the show.

When I watched one of your videos, ‘escaping the city,alone in the wilderness for 2yrs...,without much talking I instantly love your video,especially how you effortlessly built your log cabin, I was wondering if you did replanting hehehe, It’s great to know that there are still people like you who embraced this kind of simple lifestyle, your videos are my new motivations!thank You!

Oh Shawn, what a magnificent home you have built for yourself and your wife !!! Will you give us a tour of your cabin once it is finished ??