Life Below Zero Season 18 Episode 9 Old vs. New
- January 18, 2022
- 44 min
Life Below Zero is a reality television show that captures the lives of individuals who are living off the grid in some of the harshest environments in the world. The show takes us through the challenges and triumphs of individuals who have dedicated their lives to living off the land, from Alaska to the Arctic Circle.
Season 18, episode 9 of Life Below Zero is titled "Old vs. New". The episode showcases the different approaches to survival that two of the show's cast members have taken. Sue Aikens, an established cast member who has been on Life Below Zero for years,is well-known for her traditional, old-school way of living off the land. Meanwhile, newcomer Adam Shoemaker represents a more modern approach to off-grid living.
The episode begins by following Sue Aikens as she tends to her daily chores in Kavik, Alaska. Sue is known for her no-nonsense attitude, and we see her going about her business, unfazed by the harsh Alaskan terrain. She tells the camera that she has been living in Kavik for over three decades and that she has had to adapt her way of life to the changing environment. Sue has seen a lot in her time living off the land and has grown accustomed to the challenges of surviving in such a remote location. However, as she looks around at her aging equipment and tools, she starts to realize that maybe it's time to update her gear.
Meanwhile, we see Adam Shoemaker, a newcomer to the show, making his way through the Alaskan wilderness. Adam approaches off-grid living with a more modern twist, incorporating technology and advanced tools to help him survive. We see Adam using a drone to survey the land around him and a solar-powered chainsaw to chop wood.
As the episode progresses, we see the differences between Sue and Adam's approaches to survival become more pronounced. Sue takes a more hands-on approach, relying on her experience and knowledge to handle each task manually, while Adam's technology allows him to take on bigger tasks with relative ease. Sue is shown sharpening her knives and tools, while Adam uses a power sharpener. Though both approaches have their merits, it becomes clear that Sue's style of living off the land has become outdated.
Later in the episode, we see Sue begrudgingly make a trip to the nearest town to purchase some new tools. She is hesitant to change her ways, acknowledging that her old tools have served her well for many years. However, as she browses the hardware store and sees some of the newer, more advanced gear available, she starts to warm up to the idea of updating her equipment.
The episode ends with Sue returning to Kavik with her new gear and putting it to use. Despite her initial reluctance, she is impressed by how much easier her tasks have become. Meanwhile, Adam is shown continuing to use his advanced tools to take on bigger challenges and accomplish more than he could have with traditional off-grid living.
"Old vs. New" is a fascinating episode that highlights the different approaches to off-grid living that exist in today's modern world. The contrast between Sue and Adam's ways of life serves as an interesting commentary on the ways in which technology has changed the world, even in the most remote areas. The episode also emphasizes the importance of adapting to change, as Sue comes to realize that sometimes, even the old ways need updating. Overall, "Old vs. New" is a compelling episode that showcases the grit and determination required to live off the land in some of the harshest environments in the world.