Thank you so much for 15,000 SUBSCRIBERS. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to be creative in the space. As always remember that behind every number, is a story😊
Woah this was FASCINATING. Thank you for choosing to do this video, Romain. Also, thank you to the residents of Slab City for sharing their stories and homes.
Learning about alternative living is fascinating. I often think, "The simple life isn't so simple." You still have to be resourceful, hustle, adapt, etc. Ultimately, a strong community is important. I read that there are potential plans to buy the land, too. What then? Wishing them all well ❤ Thanks for another great video, Romain!!!
This was such a surprise episode and definitely fascinating. Awesome job 👏 Also, it’s an interesting mindset when people break away and don’t want to be part of the “system” but also feel unrepentantly entitled to the social safety net of that same system.
Hello Romain, This leaves me speechless and definitely is not me. But it does help me to be thankful for where I am and what I have. Have a wonderful week and thanks for the inspiration. 🌞
Romian, first of all, thank you for highlighting this slice of America. I'm going to have to watch this a few times; there's a lot going on here, on multiple levels. This deserves a really deep dive. More later...
Was not expecting this on your feed, Romain.. 😅 Interesting video and I really feel for these people, it’s great to see them making the most of what they have.. ❤ I can’t imagine living like that, they’re tough, that’s for sure!! Makes me abundantly grateful for all i’ve been blessed with.
At one point in my life I lived in a smaller gated trailer park in Florida. Lot rent was $250 and that included all utilities! I owned the trailer. The housing cost was just half of one paycheck each month and I would get paid each week. Outside is an extension of your living area. After you have that figured out you really don't need that much space. This move corrected my financials very fast! I can understand why they have lived there so long. When I lived in the trailer I figured after 2-3 years I would sell the trailer and move. I lived in it for 6-8 years.
My favorite episode so far. As always, I appreciate how respectful and curious you. I love that you a) compensated the people you interviewed and b) were transparent about it. I hope Tomahawk makes it to the Kid Rock concert :)
Does he realize his EBT "food stamp card" isn't exactly free?? Taxpayers like US are paying for it?? I know it's only $2775, but, is is fair that WE, the society he wants no part of, have to feed him? He's lovely, he really is, but, still he's a burden on the rest of us, and thinks he's entitled to get that check??
Delightful and surprising departure from audits in Babylon, Romain👍😃👍Last time I saw Slab City was on Cheap RV Living episodes! It is not a visit for the faint of heart or close-minded individuals. You did an outstanding job of reporting here, Romain. Many of us are reminded of how short life really is and to consider how we spend our life energy. I'm also personally reminded of the blessing of a clean bed, shower and working toilet. As always, you share and inform with great integrity and respect to all involved. Yours is one of the most genuine and positively progressive YT channels. Thank you! 🙌
It is always a pleasure for me to read your comments, and indeed, this adventure has made me reflect quite a bit on how grateful I am to be in this situation. I have always been FASCINATED with SLAB City and really wanted to have a different approach to it :)
Really liked this video Romain. A lot different than your usual audits but loved the change up. It was interesting listening to everyone’s stories how they ended up in Slab City. Would also like to say thank you for giving us this kind of content. I’m sure spending the night there was out of your comfort zone 😅 so thank you for this!
OK, I've had a chance to go over this a number of times, in some detail. Here's where I'm coming from: for years I have worked, in a volunteer capacity, with those "on the fringes", dealing with mental health and addiction issues. And what I'm seeing here is an avalanche of just that: addictions, mental health problems, and so-called "free spirits". It's somewhat easy to feel a sense of kinship and even admiration for those who have essentially turned their backs on social norms. But here's the thing: when someone says they had difficulty living within the legal system, that means someone else was victimized. And when Dot says (paraphrased here), "Think about what you buy and what you're taking home with you", well, I'm not sure that she is perhaps the best person in the world to be taking life advice from given her intentional choices. This format (UA-cam comments) perhaps isn't the best place to discuss things like this in detail, but from where I sit (and I completely recognize that I'm only seeing what's being presented here in this clip), this shows failure on a number of levels: failure of personal responsibility, failure of the justice system, failure of the mental health system to get people the assistance they so desperately need, and failure of the medical system to successfully treat the dragon of addiction.
I appreciate your analysis and where you are coming from. I would say yes that most individuals who come to SLAB CITY have had challenging backgrounds but in your commentary you are referencing with wanting to match their living to normal society. I truthfully believe that there are individuals that just don’t match with our regular system - and so we can’t mold them to fit with it. I appreciate that there is a community for individuals like this - because everyone should be able (as long as it is legal, and respectful to one and another) to live the way they want to.
@@itsRomainFaure Thanks for your thoughtful and compassionate response, Romain. Your respect for the life choices of those who have chosen to live in Slab City is clear. I guess my point is that the reason Slab City exists is a result of a series of choices made by both the people who live there and the institutions that are meant to serve them. What was extremely telling was the story of the woman who calls herself Tomahawk; abandoned with her sisters when she was a child. One sister - and this is assuming the story she tells is true - is a doctor and, apparently, living well, while Tomahawk now lives destitute, but will scrape up $100 to go to a Kid Rock concert. Same genetics. Same background. Different life choices. Now, I think it's impossible and perhaps unwise for anyone to judge who made the "right" decisions here. Who has the right to judge for others about whether their decisions, for them in their particular circumstance, are right or wrong? Everyone is just trying to do their best. In every case, choices have consequences. I suppose if those who live in Slab City, or those who live in the southwest corner of Manhattan, are content with the consequences of their choices, then fine. I'm willing to be wrong on this, but the sense I get is that Slab City residents are not particularly satisfied with their lives. All that said, Romain, thank you again for a tiny glimpse into another world in which very few of us have much knowledge. Your compassion and courage in meeting with and interviewing these individuals comes through in abundance.
It’s funny because the ANSWER to all the problem of Slab City and the world is written all over slab city. JESUS! Only Jesus can make u born again, ONLY Jesus can renew your mind. Change you form the inner most part of you. Salvation mountain is no mistake. It was made for a purpose, commissioned by God! ❤
@@bacaworld7095 Perhaps the reason they're destitute is because they're relying on Jesus to pay the bills. Last I heard, Jesus didn't have a checking account.
Thank you for this intriguing content and view into slab city. The interviews are so interesting. I love to see the creative ways people carve out their lives. You are such an excellent interviewer. I really enjoyed this!
She was a Business Systems Analyst and gave it all up.😮That takes Courage. ❤ Is this what freedom and stress free living looks like…🤔 Very interesting and inspiring video.
I think she Just moved from one level of stress to a different level of stress. Now she hast to scour for cans and brass off of firing range and clean peoples houses and make coffee for other people and barely makes $200 a month. Obviously can’t afford dental work because it looks like she might need dentures. I’m not sure this is so much less stressful.
The third interview was traumatic to see. Surviving like this tough man. Being broke has many implications too. Glad that they are creating artistic stuff to make a living. A fulfilling work which pays you well is the ultimate key to find your happiness.
DNA has impressive building skills. DOT has jewelry skills and selling skills. It would be interesting to know what they really make each year. Lots to unpack from this video.
Your compassion and empathy runs deep for your guest❤. I will never judge other human beings because you never know when it could be you. I’m grateful for the life that I have worked for. Thankful for the people that invested in me regarding financial literacy as a kid, it served me well. Best channel on UA-cam!
Thank you for covering this Slab City. It is good to hear these stories from personal experiences. You really went on an adventure staying the night there. So I was wondering - and it seems from some of the interviews - that there is in fact a system of hierarchy there in the Slab. So newcomers may need to have an "ok" or "approval" from the "veteran residents" as to where to camp down to live? Maybe they need a person or people to sort of "introduce" them into the society or some sort of "initiation"? It seems these people do look out for each other. My thoughts? I am happy there is such a place because there are people who simply fall through the cracks of the system of life as we know it. They sound like intelligent folks who at one time were living in main stream society, but did need to leave. Thank you, Romaine for this video - I enjoyed this. I have a new level of grateful today.
This is INCREDIBLE! I love this whole idea WOW what creativity! I already liked and will watch today for sure. Love what you do on this channel and the respect you foster here. I can see you becoming so huge! I look forward to your journey and hope it remains nothing but positive and amazing!
It’s kinda cool there’s a place out there for people to make a living. Think of all the homeless people out there, they could all be living productive lives in slab city if they don’t fit in with society.
Romain, all I can say it wow. I have never heard of Slab City. There is a simple life without debt, but I don't know if I want to live out in the desert to find out. You need money to live, but you don't need an exorbitant amount to live; I guess is the moral to this life style. The Slab City residents have found a way to make a community that most would not consider to be "normal" work for them. Kuddos to all of them. We may all be living in a form of Slab City at some point, or maybe we are living in a form of Slab City and just don't know it. Thank you and your crew for taking this interview on. Wow
Absolutely fascinating. Well done! Romain, I commend you and your team for going out there with an open mind and challenging your own mindset around finances.
Wow! I guessed New York...I was close. 😅 Very intresting perspective and how this community functions and lives. What ran through my mind was healthcare. What happens when you’re sick and dying?
Trop cool Romain, j'adore tes épisodes qui sortent de l'ordinaire, je suis passionné par les outsiders américains et la beat generation alors, j'ai été servi ! Amitiés, Ben
Great episode! This is going way beyond what most financial advisors do. Thanks for showing an entirely different financial/lifestyle ecosystem. Food for thought.
Brilliant, unique content.This is very helpful.I never heard of this place. This is unreal. Everybody needs to watch this video.Really motivated me to stay in gratitude and improve my finances and stay in the game and buy less stuff. Not judging the residents but this is truly an extreme way to live. God bless them all!
I watch “Music Under The Stars” on the “Welcome To The Range” UA-cam channel. Real folks playing real music, it’s rare to find these days. Bill “The Builder” runs the Range and opens every show with his song!
One thing I hardly see when watching these is anyone growing food? The theory sounds fine but there's a piece of the puzzle im interested in...food. I heard one man say he has an ebt card, suggesting they are not self sufficient as suggested. No judgment, just info.
I grew up with a couple relatives who have the mindset of the exchange economy and it is difficult but they do get along in life. The ad on this video was Grip6 and I love their socks.
oh yeah... i was born and raised east of "the slab" at the intersection of the el camino del diablo and the dixie trail... that area has always been a place where either you are flat broke and broken or getting rich from the "opportunities" that only exist along "the border"... but don't fool yourself... IT IS A VERY DIFFICULT PLACE TO PROSPER, so don't go there and expect to get rich but you will the bottom of your misery and maybe you'll get out and "be someone".... happy trails
This is a really interesting insight into a totally different segment of society from a personal finances perspective! Thank you, Romain, for the peek into a fresh perspective! ❤
When I was young and a Dem/Leftist...I had no property, little money, and wasn't paying taxes. Those things weren't necessarily a concern to me except maybe money. I voted for the crumbs that Dems would toss at us.
Wow wow wow. First, Mr. General contractor DNA - I wonder if what he went to jail for was related to his contracting work? I feel bad for his past clients. Then, Dot - I laughed at her saying food stamps are just granted, standard for everyone. Foos stamps wouldnt be available without everyone paying into the tax system, and she definitely takes that for granted. And then she "had children?" I don't know if she still has a relationship with her children but that seemed so sad to me, that her children were a component of her negative past life and she's happier now without them, or at least, the responsibility. I kind of get the impression she abandoned her family and wants to live a carefree life without responsibility. Next, Romain's expression when he hears the bathroom doesn't work is priceless! I don't really get the impression life is easier in slab city - it's hard in a different way. I'm not materialist by any means but I do value comfort - for example air conditioning. It's very interesting to get a glimpse into the lives of people who think and live so differently from me!
I was part of the counter culture (hippy lifestyle) in the 1970s. It was almost all people in their 20s. Some people built lovely open air style homes on a commune in a forest. Most people ended up with successful businesses or other good jobs, families, home ownership and enough to pay for retirement, because they were intelligent, industrious and lucky. A few succumbed to drugs and living off government handouts. So while we "didn't believe in capitalism" in our 20s, this society sustained us.
I really liked your video. I know each one of those you talked too. Dot is a cherished friend, I met her in 2019. She is an awesome person and just so much fun to hang out with. I know Tammy, a.k.a. Tomahawk. Another cool person. I met DNA, very cool person. And a building wizard. He was doing work next door for half-pint. This was all in season 2019 when I lived on Beale, next to Half-Pint. I have wintered in Slabs 4 differant times. 2003/2004, 2013/2014, 2018/2019, 2019/2020, in Niland not Slabs. Each has been a unique experiance. I have seen many changes.
Was just there again a couple weeks ago….an absolute dump quite literally. Creepy, dangerous and just an overall homeless drug culture vibe. Feels extremely unsafe on so many levels. Some try to promote artsy, eclectic, eccentric vibes, but it really feels like what binging meth heads would create.
I enjoyed your interviews of the almost unhoused. Nothing , though the people in the video that are 62?years and older may earn little but one thing not disclosed is the fact that they can get supplemental social security if never worked long enough to get the credits for regular social security. Most likely they are getting about $900?in old age supplemental ssi.
I caution the residents to prevent changing of the landscape due to outside influence. Slab city has appeal because of its unqiueness. The last thing it needs is money to ruin it just like money ruins every other city. Greed is a dangerous trait as it destroys community. I urge people to NOT commercialize slab city. Commercialization destroys creativity. I may have to go there and advise the residents to keep UA-camrs out of the slabs via no more tours or interviews. Community over money is what makes slab city special!
Very interesting video Romain!! I bet that was quite the experience to stay there overnight. As others have said, looks like a real-life Fallout town! I'm glad that there is somewhere that folks can still go if they feel they want to essentially leave capitalism behind. I hope the best for them, especially in that heat! Thanks for the very cool video! I felt like I was on the adventure with you. Keep it up!! :)
I also think it's good there is a place people can go and manage with less financially and fewer rules on housing etc, but they are still living within society with services like shops and police near enough to access as needed. And it's still within capitalist society, with services and income given to them. Someone who owns their own home and has enough money to support themselves are more independent and free IMO.
I can imagine having a high-powered, high income career. Then you just get "TIRED". Tired of the rat race, the taxes, the debt. You give it all up for Slab City. 😮😮
Fascinating one can resemble 84 at only the age of 54.What a wonderful country to truly be land of the free. Home of the brave. Thank you for bringing this light to my eyes. I too must enjoy the camping adventure someday that it Slad City. Where is this in America? Would you recommend bringing protection or lots of glass?
It was an old Marine base that was demolished down to the slabs of concrete the buildings used to sit on. I understand it’s near some sort of toxic water area. A lot of homeless people moved here and it’s kind of a tourist attraction now. From what I’ve read, it’s a bit romanticized. There’s a lot of crime and a lot of drugs.
Thank you so much for 15,000 SUBSCRIBERS. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to be creative in the space. As always remember that behind every number, is a story😊
Keep up the great work!
Woah this was FASCINATING. Thank you for choosing to do this video, Romain. Also, thank you to the residents of Slab City for sharing their stories and homes.
and Thank you for trusting me with your time :)
Yes, well done!
I really appreciate how respectful you are to your guests.
Thank you so much!
You are so good and kind to others Romain. You don’t make fun of people who are different than societal norms dictate. You are a honorable man.
Thank you 🙏
Learning about alternative living is fascinating. I often think, "The simple life isn't so simple." You still have to be resourceful, hustle, adapt, etc. Ultimately, a strong community is important.
I read that there are potential plans to buy the land, too. What then? Wishing them all well ❤ Thanks for another great video, Romain!!!
I am not sure about the new plans yet to be honest :)
You are a natural journalist :) Curious, emphatic, kind, impartial and a good storyteller.
I’m a fan.
It feels like a scene straight from Fallout!
And Dunes too :)
Yes🎉
As a minimalist this would be to chaotic a living space
This was such a surprise episode and definitely fascinating. Awesome job 👏
Also, it’s an interesting mindset when people break away and don’t want to be part of the “system” but also feel unrepentantly entitled to the social safety net of that same system.
Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you Jordan!
Hello Romain,
This leaves me speechless and definitely is not me. But it does help me to be thankful for where I am and what I have.
Have a wonderful week and thanks for the inspiration. 🌞
Wonderful! Have a great week as well :)
I loved learning about how people in alternative communities view money and happiness. It was truly eye opening. Thank you for this
Thank you for trusting me with your time :)
We love a versatile king! Keep it up Romaine!
I appreciate, let me know your thoughts!
Romain, you are such a respectful, considerate, and smart person. I truly learn something from every video. Thank you.
Thank you for your kind comment :)
Romian, first of all, thank you for highlighting this slice of America.
I'm going to have to watch this a few times; there's a lot going on here, on multiple levels. This deserves a really deep dive. More later...
I look forwards to reading your thoughts
Was not expecting this on your feed, Romain.. 😅 Interesting video and I really feel for these people, it’s great to see them making the most of what they have.. ❤ I can’t imagine living like that, they’re tough, that’s for sure!! Makes me abundantly grateful for all i’ve been blessed with.
Very good positive thoughts :)
Romain, this is journalism. Thank you!
Hahah Thank you :)
At one point in my life I lived in a smaller gated trailer park in Florida. Lot rent was $250 and that included all utilities! I owned the trailer. The housing cost was just half of one paycheck each month and I would get paid each week.
Outside is an extension of your living area. After you have that figured out you really don't need that much space. This move corrected my financials very fast!
I can understand why they have lived there so long. When I lived in the trailer I figured after 2-3 years I would sell the trailer and move. I lived in it for 6-8 years.
Interesting story!
My favorite episode so far. As always, I appreciate how respectful and curious you. I love that you a) compensated the people you interviewed and b) were transparent about it. I hope Tomahawk makes it to the Kid Rock concert :)
Glad you enjoyed it!
Does he realize his EBT "food stamp card" isn't exactly free?? Taxpayers like US are paying for it?? I know it's only $2775, but, is is fair that WE, the society he wants no part of, have to feed him? He's lovely, he really is, but, still he's a burden on the rest of us, and thinks he's entitled to get that check??
Delightful and surprising departure from audits in Babylon, Romain👍😃👍Last time I saw Slab City was on Cheap RV Living episodes! It is not a visit for the faint of heart or close-minded individuals. You did an outstanding job of reporting here, Romain. Many of us are reminded of how short life really is and to consider how we spend our life energy. I'm also personally reminded of the blessing of a clean bed, shower and working toilet. As always, you share and inform with great integrity and respect to all involved. Yours is one of the most genuine and positively progressive YT channels. Thank you! 🙌
It is always a pleasure for me to read your comments, and indeed, this adventure has made me reflect quite a bit on how grateful I am to be in this situation. I have always been FASCINATED with SLAB City and really wanted to have a different approach to it :)
Great to see this settlement thriving after what happened to Shady Sands
💀
Shady Sands? What was that?
@@sactopyrshepit's a fallout reference lol
I've been following you since your first video Romain, it's so cool to watch these new interview's. Bring more!
Thank you so much !
Really liked this video Romain. A lot different than your usual audits but loved the change up. It was interesting listening to everyone’s stories how they ended up in Slab City. Would also like to say thank you for giving us this kind of content. I’m sure spending the night there was out of your comfort zone 😅 so thank you for this!
Unbearable rents, opressive taxes, junkies, skyrocketing taxes, high cost of living etc. I think more people will be living like this in the future.
Thank you for interviewing these brave folks.
Thank you for watching !
OK, I've had a chance to go over this a number of times, in some detail.
Here's where I'm coming from: for years I have worked, in a volunteer capacity, with those "on the fringes", dealing with mental health and addiction issues.
And what I'm seeing here is an avalanche of just that: addictions, mental health problems, and so-called "free spirits".
It's somewhat easy to feel a sense of kinship and even admiration for those who have essentially turned their backs on social norms. But here's the thing: when someone says they had difficulty living within the legal system, that means someone else was victimized.
And when Dot says (paraphrased here), "Think about what you buy and what you're taking home with you", well, I'm not sure that she is perhaps the best person in the world to be taking life advice from given her intentional choices.
This format (UA-cam comments) perhaps isn't the best place to discuss things like this in detail, but from where I sit (and I completely recognize that I'm only seeing what's being presented here in this clip), this shows failure on a number of levels: failure of personal responsibility, failure of the justice system, failure of the mental health system to get people the assistance they so desperately need, and failure of the medical system to successfully treat the dragon of addiction.
I appreciate your analysis and where you are coming from. I would say yes that most individuals who come to SLAB CITY have had challenging backgrounds but in your commentary you are referencing with wanting to match their living to normal society. I truthfully believe that there are individuals that just don’t match with our regular system - and so we can’t mold them to fit with it. I appreciate that there is a community for individuals like this - because everyone should be able (as long as it is legal, and respectful to one and another) to live the way they want to.
@@itsRomainFaure Thanks for your thoughtful and compassionate response, Romain.
Your respect for the life choices of those who have chosen to live in Slab City is clear.
I guess my point is that the reason Slab City exists is a result of a series of choices made by both the people who live there and the institutions that are meant to serve them.
What was extremely telling was the story of the woman who calls herself Tomahawk; abandoned with her sisters when she was a child. One sister - and this is assuming the story she tells is true - is a doctor and, apparently, living well, while Tomahawk now lives destitute, but will scrape up $100 to go to a Kid Rock concert.
Same genetics. Same background. Different life choices.
Now, I think it's impossible and perhaps unwise for anyone to judge who made the "right" decisions here. Who has the right to judge for others about whether their decisions, for them in their particular circumstance, are right or wrong? Everyone is just trying to do their best.
In every case, choices have consequences. I suppose if those who live in Slab City, or those who live in the southwest corner of Manhattan, are content with the consequences of their choices, then fine. I'm willing to be wrong on this, but the sense I get is that Slab City residents are not particularly satisfied with their lives.
All that said, Romain, thank you again for a tiny glimpse into another world in which very few of us have much knowledge. Your compassion and courage in meeting with and interviewing these individuals comes through in abundance.
Conditions we’ve had since the beginning of civilization pretty much…!
It’s funny because the ANSWER to all the problem of Slab City and the world is written all over slab city. JESUS! Only Jesus can make u born again, ONLY Jesus can renew your mind. Change you form the inner most part of you.
Salvation mountain is no mistake. It was made for a purpose, commissioned by God! ❤
@@bacaworld7095 Perhaps the reason they're destitute is because they're relying on Jesus to pay the bills.
Last I heard, Jesus didn't have a checking account.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Fascinating. Amazing video, fabulous interviews.
Many thanks!
Damn, what a change-up! How interesting!
Let me know what you think :)
Thank you for this intriguing content and view into slab city. The interviews are so interesting. I love to see the creative ways people carve out their lives. You are such an excellent interviewer. I really enjoyed this!
Thank you 😊
She was a Business Systems Analyst and gave it all up.😮That takes Courage. ❤ Is this what freedom and stress free living looks like…🤔 Very interesting and inspiring video.
Thank you for checking it out :)
When you are "tired of being tired and "Tired of rat race"....
This is what it looks like!! OFF THE GRID LIVING!
@@Omonike88 -💯 Speaking Facts!
@@Omonike88 Yes this is an option, it is not for everyone though haha
I think she Just moved from one level of stress to a different level of stress. Now she hast to scour for cans and brass off of firing range and clean peoples houses and make coffee for other people and barely makes $200 a month. Obviously can’t afford dental work because it looks like she might need dentures. I’m not sure this is so much less stressful.
The third interview was traumatic to see. Surviving like this tough man. Being broke has many implications too. Glad that they are creating artistic stuff to make a living. A fulfilling work which pays you well is the ultimate key to find your happiness.
Tomahawk didn't have it easy :(
I was kind of curious why her sister the doctor wouldn’t send her money to get her out of there. Sounds like she’s had a very difficult life.
Amazing content, Romaine!!!! Thank you for all that you do
Thank you for trusting me with your time!
You keep us on our toes! Love it great content!
More to come!
DNA has impressive building skills. DOT has jewelry skills and selling skills. It would be interesting to know what they really make each year. Lots to unpack from this video.
Thank you Steve!
Your compassion and empathy runs deep for your guest❤. I will never judge other human beings because you never know when it could be you. I’m grateful for the life that I have worked for. Thankful for the people that invested in me regarding financial literacy as a kid, it served me well. Best channel on UA-cam!
I completely agree with your thought process on judgment, I try to remain as neutral and unbiased as possible when interviewing individuals :)
Best video from your channel so far. Thank you for making quality videos.
Wow, thanks!
Two movies have scenes with slab city in them, into the wild and easy rider.
Good catch, it has changed quite a bit since then
Thank you for covering this Slab City. It is good to hear these stories from personal experiences. You really went on an adventure staying the night there. So I was wondering - and it seems from some of the interviews - that there is in fact a system of hierarchy there in the Slab. So newcomers may need to have an "ok" or "approval" from the "veteran residents" as to where to camp down to live? Maybe they need a person or people to sort of "introduce" them into the society or some sort of "initiation"? It seems these people do look out for each other. My thoughts? I am happy there is such a place because there are people who simply fall through the cracks of the system of life as we know it. They sound like intelligent folks who at one time were living in main stream society, but did need to leave. Thank you, Romaine for this video - I enjoyed this. I have a new level of grateful today.
Everyone is pretty much able to start something there, there is a form of self governing society, it is definietely an interesting place :)
@@itsRomainFaure Ah I see. Yes, very interesting. Looking forward to successive Slab videos when you get a chance.
What an interesting segment!! Thank you for this, Romain! Respect from Canada!👍🏾
Glad you enjoyed it!
I love your openness with people, and that's very humbling. ❤
Thank you Veronica!
Quickly becoming my fave youtuber!!
WOW! I am humbled :)
Same here,Romain vlogs are unique and knowledgeable.
Mine too 🎉
This is INCREDIBLE! I love this whole idea WOW what creativity! I already liked and will watch today for sure. Love what you do on this channel and the respect you foster here. I can see you becoming so huge! I look forward to your journey and hope it remains nothing but positive and amazing!
Thank you so much!
It’s kinda cool there’s a place out there for people to make a living. Think of all the homeless people out there, they could all be living productive lives in slab city if they don’t fit in with society.
Yes! it definietely showcases alternative living
I love Dot, she's actually running a lil thrift shop..
Yes pretty much! she is very kind!
Great content...so intriguing. Love your kind acceptance of everyone.
Of course :)
Romain, all I can say it wow. I have never heard of Slab City. There is a simple life without debt, but I don't know if I want to live out in the desert to find out. You need money to live, but you don't need an exorbitant amount to live; I guess is the moral to this life style. The Slab City residents have found a way to make a community that most would not consider to be "normal" work for them. Kuddos to all of them. We may all be living in a form of Slab City at some point, or maybe we are living in a form of Slab City and just don't know it. Thank you and your crew for taking this interview on. Wow
Thank you Kirbie! and yes I am also fascinated with this lifestyle living in the US! I found it very interesting too :)
What an interesting video! Love the content diversity. I also appreciate how genuine and authentic you are Romain!
Thank you so much!
🌸Zero dollars for rent!!🌸
👩🏽🦰 Sleeping bags! OMG!!
👚👍🏾 Artistic Sculptures!
👖Six years ago! Aww OMG
Yes this is interesting to say the least :)
Interesting indeed!!! WoW!
Another amazing video! Thanks for sharing different parts of the country and lifestyles of people
Thank you for always been here mate!
Absolutely fascinating. Well done! Romain, I commend you and your team for going out there with an open mind and challenging your own mindset around finances.
Much appreciated!
Wow! I guessed New York...I was close. 😅 Very intresting perspective and how this community functions and lives. What ran through my mind was healthcare. What happens when you’re sick and dying?
Fascinating stuff Romain!
Thank you Angela
Trop cool Romain, j'adore tes épisodes qui sortent de l'ordinaire, je suis passionné par les outsiders américains et la beat generation alors, j'ai été servi ! Amitiés, Ben
Merci bien Ben!
Love the different perspective on this video 👏🏻
Thank you!!
Q
Thanks for sharing 👍
Loved the interview and tour
This is the closest possible to a cashless barter system and even they need cash at some point.
Q❤
Thank you for watching :)
Great episode! This is going way beyond what most financial advisors do. Thanks for showing an entirely different financial/lifestyle ecosystem. Food for thought.
Glad you enjoyed it!
So interesting, I really enjoyed this and look forward to more stories!
Glad you liked it :) Thank you
Brilliant, unique content.This is very helpful.I never heard of this place. This is unreal. Everybody needs to watch this video.Really motivated me to stay in gratitude and improve my finances and stay in the game and buy less stuff. Not judging the residents but this is truly an extreme way to live. God bless them all!
WOW! Thank you so much a kind comment!
I watch “Music Under The Stars” on the “Welcome To The Range” UA-cam channel. Real folks playing real music, it’s rare to find these days. Bill “The Builder” runs the Range and opens every show with his song!
Nice!!!!
I love this branch out away from the studio! So fun and educational
Thank you, yes taking some risks :)
I was worried about the books in the library with the patchy roof. And then it started raining ☔️ Precious books 📕 📚
Love your content and definitely is versatile. Keep it up!
Doing my best to provide the most variety of stories as possible
One thing I hardly see when watching these is anyone growing food? The theory sounds fine but there's a piece of the puzzle im interested in...food. I heard one man say he has an ebt card, suggesting they are not self sufficient as suggested. No judgment, just info.
Nope too hot :( and the soil isn’t prone to it.
I grew up with a couple relatives who have the mindset of the exchange economy and it is difficult but they do get along in life. The ad on this video was Grip6 and I love their socks.
oh yeah... i was born and raised east of "the slab" at the intersection of the el camino del diablo and the dixie trail... that area has always been a place where either you are flat broke and broken or getting rich from the "opportunities" that only exist along "the border"... but don't fool yourself... IT IS A VERY DIFFICULT PLACE TO PROSPER, so don't go there and expect to get rich but you will the bottom of your misery and maybe you'll get out and "be someone".... happy trails
Very insightful!
This is a really interesting insight into a totally different segment of society from a personal finances perspective! Thank you, Romain, for the peek into a fresh perspective! ❤
I have always been fascinated by Slab City :)
So let's summarize.
Low taxes. Property rights. Little government.
But they will all vote a certain way despite the way they live.
And it’s CA so they probably won’t even know that they voted that way.
When I was young and a Dem/Leftist...I had no property, little money, and wasn't paying taxes. Those things weren't necessarily a concern to me except maybe money. I voted for the crumbs that Dems would toss at us.
Little government? They're funded by social services. He said he's on ebt. Most probably are
A high percentage of people in the Slabs are drawing government benefits
You asked amazing questions!
@@Jacquie_Kirk_111 you are watching everything Jacquie :)
Woa, what a great mini documentary!
Yes pretty much :)
I am impressed by how wise these people are despite their situations.
Wow wow wow. First, Mr. General contractor DNA - I wonder if what he went to jail for was related to his contracting work? I feel bad for his past clients.
Then, Dot - I laughed at her saying food stamps are just granted, standard for everyone. Foos stamps wouldnt be available without everyone paying into the tax system, and she definitely takes that for granted. And then she "had children?" I don't know if she still has a relationship with her children but that seemed so sad to me, that her children were a component of her negative past life and she's happier now without them, or at least, the responsibility. I kind of get the impression she abandoned her family and wants to live a carefree life without responsibility.
Next, Romain's expression when he hears the bathroom doesn't work is priceless!
I don't really get the impression life is easier in slab city - it's hard in a different way. I'm not materialist by any means but I do value comfort - for example air conditioning.
It's very interesting to get a glimpse into the lives of people who think and live so differently from me!
I appreciate your comment I had a fun time reading it :)
That's a lot of assumptions about people you don't know.
14:59 oh no, it’s not bad, IT’s TERRIBLE
I was part of the counter culture (hippy lifestyle) in the 1970s. It was almost all people in their 20s.
Some people built lovely open air style homes on a commune in a forest.
Most people ended up with successful businesses or other good jobs, families, home ownership and enough to pay for retirement, because they were intelligent, industrious and lucky.
A few succumbed to drugs and living off government handouts.
So while we "didn't believe in capitalism" in our 20s, this society sustained us.
Hmmm ... interesting!
Romain, you always bring us quality content 🎉🎉🎉
Doing my best :) Thank you
I loved your channel. I love it even more. You are such a kind soul. Thank you for talking so kindly to them. Interesting way of living.
This video was very different than our regular schedule ! We are taking risks :)
I really liked your video. I know each one of those you talked too. Dot is a cherished friend, I met her in 2019. She is an awesome person and just so much fun to hang out with. I know Tammy, a.k.a. Tomahawk. Another cool person. I met DNA, very cool person. And a building wizard. He was doing work next door for half-pint. This was all in season 2019 when I lived on Beale, next to Half-Pint.
I have wintered in Slabs 4 differant times. 2003/2004, 2013/2014, 2018/2019, 2019/2020, in Niland not Slabs.
Each has been a unique experiance. I have seen many changes.
Wow thank you so much for sharing your story ! And your affiliation with Slab City :)
These buildings look like things I built when I was a little kid.
I really like this channel 😁👍
Thanks! 😃
Was just there again a couple weeks ago….an absolute dump quite literally. Creepy, dangerous and just an overall homeless drug culture vibe. Feels extremely unsafe on so many levels. Some try to promote artsy, eclectic, eccentric vibes, but it really feels like what binging meth heads would create.
Fascinating video!
Thank you so much!
Really cool video! I’m in California so I’ve heard of Slab City. Interesting how they live on a trade/ barter system. Enjoyed the video! 👍
Thank you so much for watching!
Very interesting episode. Top tier content as always
I appreciate the kind comment 😊
Cool video Romain 🎨🖌️🖼️
It’s really interesting to see how people live in different parts of the country especially in regards to money
Exactly what we wanted to highlight :)
This is awesome!
Cheers to you :)
Seems as though money is just as necessary out there as it is everywhere else.
WHAT KIND OF JOBS IN SLABCITY PLEAZ ??????
Yo hey now great video i have been going over there for years and there is more people than ever
Great video! Really eye-opening
Glad you enjoyed it!
Wow I never knew this ppace existed! Thx for exploring!
You bet!
We love you tomahawk,DnA and dot
There were very kind and welcoming!
@@itsRomainFaure I was there I just left those are my buddies I love them dearly I'm jack
I enjoyed your interviews of the almost unhoused. Nothing , though the people in the video that are 62?years and older may earn little but one thing not disclosed is the fact that they can get supplemental social security if never worked long enough to get the credits for regular social security. Most likely they are getting about $900?in old age supplemental ssi.
We have a video coming with this specific case. Stay tuned :)
Ok that is a good thing so that it will help the aged.
I caution the residents to prevent changing of the landscape due to outside influence. Slab city has appeal because of its unqiueness. The last thing it needs is money to ruin it just like money ruins every other city. Greed is a dangerous trait as it destroys community. I urge people to NOT commercialize slab city. Commercialization destroys creativity. I may have to go there and advise the residents to keep UA-camrs out of the slabs via no more tours or interviews. Community over money is what makes slab city special!
Very interesting video Romain!! I bet that was quite the experience to stay there overnight. As others have said, looks like a real-life Fallout town! I'm glad that there is somewhere that folks can still go if they feel they want to essentially leave capitalism behind. I hope the best for them, especially in that heat!
Thanks for the very cool video! I felt like I was on the adventure with you. Keep it up!! :)
I love to hear that! Follow up for another SLAB CITY video coming in a couple of days :)
@@itsRomainFaure Oh awesome!! Looking forward :)
I also think it's good there is a place people can go and manage with less financially and fewer rules on housing etc, but they are still living within society with services like shops and police near enough to access as needed.
And it's still within capitalist society, with services and income given to them.
Someone who owns their own home and has enough money to support themselves are more independent and free IMO.
How many bottlecaps do I invest to set up a trader's emporium?😉
So where is the bathroom if you sleep in slab city?
@@HaamoeLee compost toilet
I can imagine having a high-powered, high income career. Then you just get "TIRED".
Tired of the rat race, the taxes, the debt.
You give it all up for Slab City.
😮😮
What a turn of event right?
Great video! Thanks 😊
Glad you liked it!
Believe in the slabs are be leaving the slabs a quote from Tomahawk the first time I met her Great video
Fascinating one can resemble 84 at only the age of 54.What a wonderful country to truly be land of the free. Home of the brave. Thank you for bringing this light to my eyes. I too must enjoy the camping adventure someday that it Slad City. Where is this in America? Would you recommend bringing protection or lots of glass?
It was an old Marine base that was demolished down to the slabs of concrete the buildings used to sit on. I understand it’s near some sort of toxic water area. A lot of homeless people moved here and it’s kind of a tourist attraction now. From what I’ve read, it’s a bit romanticized. There’s a lot of crime and a lot of drugs.
Slab city is located in California - there is quite a bit of broken glass everywhere yes