As a homeless veteran, a senior citizen on ssi, I can identify with your story. I'm proud to follow you. I have added 300 watts of solar to my trailer as well as built my own battery bank, all off of your teaching. I can't thank you enough. God bless.

You have been through the war, and have come out the other side, and are such an inspiration. I gotta say it, when I first watched you, I thought you were like 15 or something, (sorry), but after listening, I realize that you have the wisdom of someone 5 times your age, and I love to hear your rants and experience and you are a great orator. I am a true admirer.

My dad was killed when i was 14 and my mom was in total depression. I was on my own at 15. I know where you have been. Its tough, but it made you a man. And a good one.

thanks heaps for sharing man. if you were my kid I'd be so proud of you.

Wow, a thumbs up for you after the first 60 seconds. Much respect for being so forgiving towards your parents. Sure, they must have made mistakes in their lives, but you appear to look at it with so much nuance. Bravo!

Will, I'm totally blown away! HUGE respect! DIY cures for incurable illnesses, bootstrapped yourself from poverty to a great lifestyle, plus...you are changing the world in a good way by sharing that enthusiasm, knowledge, and skill with everyone. The world desperately needs more people like you. Keep well brother!

Wow what a story. You are a true survivor. Thanks for all the knowledge you put out there for us to learn! Best Wishes Lilly

Amazing story! You could write another book on it , “Will to Survive”😀

You absolutely have to do a TED talk. Incredible success story, and incredible stage presence skills.

Didn't expect this from you man, came to you for info on renogy controllers and I come out with a serious life lesson. You should start a damn podcast

Wow, this was a very touching story. It's awesome you were able to make it through the tough times and begin reaping the successes of hard work! Your channel is growing like mad and it's obvious you not only have the intelligence, skill and determination to succeed as an influential KZfaqr, but also the personality to make interesting content. I enjoy watching all of your videos and can't wait to see what you come out with next!

Will, that is one of the most inspiring stories that I have ever heard in my 70+ years. You Sir, are a winner by choice and determination. I hope that you are still doing well.

Wow. Its funny when your researching 12v solar and you stumble on this. I have watched your Videos for the last 4 months and had no clue. Now I truly Understand some of your comments or lack of. Good for you Will

I've been homeless and lived in vehicles before.. sometimes for years. I was never on drugs and I always had a job. people just don't get how brutal housing can be in the bay area. Wish I was half s smart as you though. Thanks for all the help.. love the solar book so far.

Suffering builds character or it destroys you.

i see why you dislike people who beg for money and don't accept any excuses for people's situation(s). you've had to overcome a lot at a young age. you're a bright young guy and appreciate your videos!

I enjoyed your story.i am 55 and looking for a van and already fighting obstacles. stories like this give me strength and hope to live the rest of my years instead of tearing my body up to work 52 weeks a year.yea I will still work but won't have to work near as much,BTW I am a nurse and tired of killing myself.peace and love

I love you son for your honesty. I am a disabled Viet- nam vet. and I was taken back by your video. I reconsidered my own problems AND that you over came at a very young age much much more than me. I was ashamed to think how much help I received from the VA and others and how YOU pulled yourself out of the situation you were in. If you ever need help I'v got your back. PS: You deserve the medals I received... Your friend Larry

I just found your channel and you sir are one hell of an inspiration.

What a story, respect, and admiration. Here is how a man is made...

ur struggles have made u analytical, not pessimistic, or bitter. keep​ grindin my man. good job. keep sharing. thx

You are some kind of smart kiddo. You should think about becoming an Inspirational Speaker.

After listening to your videos on my courier route every day, I finally sat at my desk and actually scanned all your videos looking for something I remembered from my hours on the road and was trying to find. When I got back to 2016, I discovered this video. You were my hero before, but WOW, you are my lifetime hero now. I have often wondered how you obtained so much solar and electrical knowledge, but seeing what you went through, I can see that self-determination saw you through. What an amazing story of self-preservation. I am so proud of you. As a writer, I always want to know "the story" behind the person. So glad you shared this. I am an old woman trying to learn solar and electrical and doing it by just listening as I can't take my eyes off the road as I drive. I am ready to build my first system after a variety of experiments. You have motivated me even more knowing your history and perserverance.

You are a credit to perseverance. So many of us would give up with half the problems you have worked through.

U are one of the smartest dudes on KZfaq dude..i thought u lived a perfect life..bless u

Holy shit. I watched the whole thing. I have a close friend I've been helping these last several years who has had those kinds of disabling problems, and dealing with the incompetence of gubmint, drs and lawyers, lots of pain... except she's 57 years old! Thanks for sharing your experiences and perspective.

Will, with everything you've been through, you still smile. You're an inspiration to us all. Love the positive outlook on life, and thank you for being so forward and sharing.

I just saw your house tour video and this video was linked. I am so glad I watched it. You are a warrior.

I need to let you know, I ran across your video about plantar fascitis about a year ago. You were the only person that was able to help me through this horrible time! I think you are an amazing young man! More recently, my husband and I have been beginning to do Vanlife, and there you are again! Please keep helping others, you really do help others! Thank you for what you do!

OMG... I've been watching ur videos 4 a while now... & have always been impressed by the content & ur up beat attitude... So when this 1 poped up I thought I'd give it a watch as I'm thinking about getting a van... I guessed it would b the usual stuff... financial, freedom etc... but was interested 2 get ur take on it. I wasn't expecting u 2 say that..! Truly amazing & inspirational.! I already had so much respect 4 u & what u do... now it's like off the chart & then some..! Clearly u chose the right path & were helped by good friends... most people would have crumbled. WOW..!

Dude. I first found your video about Mr Buddy Heater, but now I'm just super impressed with who you are and what you've built!

You are the son any mom or dad would be super proud of!!

This was great. I love direct, honest, unfiltered people.

Thank you for your knowledge I’m 60 years old and wish I would’ve found you on KZfaq along time ago.

They say: ''When you fall down, make sure you pick something up when you get back up''. You've grabbed a wealth of experience on your way back up. And made it pay financially and in respect and love on your youtube channel by helping people learn new skills. My self included. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and for sharing your life experiences.

I am so guilty by judging a book by its cover.....so to speak. Your past is crazy and how you educate yourself is outstanding. Putting your knowledge aside your common sense Is off the chart as well. Even though this video is 8 years old, It is still nice to get to know the person you are watching and learning from.

Just found your videos and saw 2 of them. I really liked listening to your life story - especially the "The real reason I live in a RV". Good information and advice. You are a very good speaker - almost every word had meaning. No fluff or rambling. Even your digressions were connected to the points you were making. Anyway, thank you. I will be looking at all of your videos and I will be getting your book about Plantars Fasciitis. You are a Thinker and a thoughtful person. Thanks again.

U Have good energy and are a great role model . What a nice human

How brave of you. You have managed to rise above all the struggles that life has cast upon you. I imagined your behind the scenes life as a surf bum having had all that a privileged upbringing offered you. You are to be truly admired having dealt with so much. Your podcasts are of an extremely professional standard. My husband has recently purchased your book on mobile solar power as he is about to embark on a van conversion. He, like you suffered ill health at an early age but is ok now. Your face / outward appearance does not tell the true story. It moved me to learn about your background. You are an inspiration and should be so proud of yourself. I hope you continue to remain in good health in the future. Angela

You are awesome! I love that you did not give up even with all the obstacles. You turned problems into opportunities, wrote books, and became an expert in many fields. Very inspiring!

Your a genuine survivor. It's one thing to pick yourself up when broke. Even more with debilitating injuries. Many will lay and be victims of and blame the woes others and circumstances. You have Grit and will go far. 👍

You are such an inspiration bro... been living in my camper with my wife for a full year and counting, thanks for all videos.

Sorry you had to go through all that suffering, but that you came out the other side with such enthusiasm. I have been learning heaps from your solar videos and wanted to know more about you. I live in Myanmar and I am self taught and interested in solar things. A friend of mine has one of the only Teslas in the country. He is 94 and he asked me to help him build a solar charger for it. Saw some of your videos and then slowly getting a real education on solar equipment and setups and design from you. Thankyou so much for your videos and you deserve all the success you have. You are an inspiration.

Damn dude I had a dream last night randomly as hell where you were scolding me to get back on the horse and follow through with some things I’ve been putting off. I wasn’t even mad, I just took it cuz I respected you and your wisdom. I just searched your oldest videos and came across this. You are a legend. Keep changing the world Will. I’m getting back on the horse

Your an excellent communicator. You've got a future kid. Keep it up!

Yep, at first I thought you were a little rough around the edges and could use a little fine tuning but now, not only do I have respect for you but am both encouraged and inspired. Thank you for sharing... past, present and future. I just subscribed :o)

Wow! I started watching you about 2 months ago as I was upgrading my travel trailer with lithium batteries. Something about you captured my attention and on the surface it was the fact that you are pretty well spoken. So many people, of all ages, just butcher the English language and seem to be rather lazy. I'm only 43 years old, but am told I have an old soul and that fits me since I seem to be more old fashioned in some ways, yet am a libertarian and also beat to my own drum and love freedom vs. following what is popular or traditional. As a technical person and tradesman, I do as much on my own as possible. It is nice to watch others who do the same and get to the point instead of dragging out a topic or sugar coating it. This video is unfiltered with bad words and all, like we are two friends talking, and that raw style is great. My dad said something about your past and how you have really turned your life around, so the curiosity got me and I went looking for an older video to find your story. Your comment about how you look also crossed my mind. You come off a little more feminine and young looking and it made me wonder who you are as a person and what you have gone through in life, as I know a book can't be judged by it's cover. As a kid, I was a dork, but am very technical and hands on. At age 14, I got into doing the trades but also got an AS in photography. While I have a beard and look like a typical guy, I am very quiet and hate typical egotistical guys and I also appreciate some of the nicer things in life like cleanliness, scented wax in my home, less manly stuff. In my late 20's, I was already suffering from constant neck pain and back pain. Doctors suspect fibromyalgia along with spinal issues from genetics and work. So, while I didn't go through what you did, I don't have any days without pain and have dealt with it for many years. Now, I still do construction work but focus on the higher paying work and do it part time when possible but sometimes still do it full time. There are other issues that I have, but I try to keep moving. I'm a problem solver and engineer at heart and do the same for work (no formal engineering training or degree). No wonder I am drawn to your videos. You are relatable and I didn't even know the whole story. It is really cool to see you have so many subscribers and have found something you do well at. I appreciate you sharing the knowledge and it is entertaining at the same time.

Will, I've been impressed with your van videos for so long, and now hearing your story, I"m even more impressed with you. I had shoulder surgery once and the friend who was supposed to help me out afterwards, left and never came back and wouldn't answer his phone. I was left completely on my own with no help at all, but I survived. I'm a survivor and I can see you are too. Stay strong, Will. You're a special person.

The measure of a man is not how many times he falls but how many times he gets up! Kudos !!!! I don't know your personal beliefs, but I know the Creator God has given you an amazing mind, taking knowledge, into understanding and using what you have learned with wisdom. Thank you for posting your story and sharing the reality of what goes on "on the streets", "van living" and NOT sugar coating it. Prayers and Blessings

You are EFFING STUNNING! More power to you. I absolutely love your story and how you have pull your shit together in the face of giant odds. Congratulations! Thanks for sharing and all the great videos you have made. You are such an inspiration!!!!!

Your a strong man that is living your life, your way. Struggling makes you have character. Keep doing what your doing.

You are truly an amazing person! I ended up here while trying to figure out a small emergency solar backup. I love the way you present highly technical information so that an old man such as myself can understand it. Keep doing what you're doing. The world is better because of people like you.

I found that living in a vechile is easier than being in an apartment. You can easily spend $1,000/month living in an apartment, where you can live comfortably in a vechile for that. Also you have a vechile at the same time, which is a plus.

Will Prowse, you are a shining star. May the force be with you.

I had no idea how much suffering it took for you to beam as brightly as you do in all of your videos. I am so moved by the depth of your well and how far you had to reach within yourself to come up for air and breathe freely again. I just thought you were a genius who had things come easy to him, but I would know from my own experiences that true greatness comes from great suffering. You are showing us SO MUCH MORE than just diy off-grid solar systems! I am so grateful that I tuned in to your channel and that I now know if you tell me something can be done it’s because you’ve been there, done that, and turned that problem into a treasure trove of insights. Thank you Will for staying in the fight and owning your true nature.

I know I'm commenting on an old video but... You're an amazing person. Someday I want to come to LV just to shake your hand. I really wish people would hear what you are saying. Keep it up.

Strong Will. You're an inspiration.

Amazing Will! I've always said, victim or victor, it's your choice! I grew up poor and thanks to never owning anything that didn't need repair, today I can fix almost anything! Not the same as I've had good health, but adversity can be an opportunity to excel! Once again, thanks for all you do Will!

You are an amazing person. I think it is so great you figured out, how to heal yourself! My Dad use to say, there are 2 kinds of people. One that get's stronger from the trials of life and those that don't. You have an incredible spirit.

You are absolutely beyond amazing. My God. Please keep being you and sharing who you are and what you are interested in. The world needs it.

Love the story young brother. Would have never known. I can relate to your life. What saved you was staying away from drugs and reading for a purpose.. Love your VIDS and recommend them to the sailboat community for the solar builds. Something you may consider doing for the sailors is a video on this. Your applications are very close to what we use. Thank you again for this video.

Wow man what a story. What an inspiration. Proud of you. We have a lot in common. Life is in the struggle and you’re right you sink or swim but don’t forget to be sympathetic. Mental illness is a terrible phenomena and mustn’t be mocked. Those who sink aren’t there necessarily because they had poor will power. They’re just not able to do it. But you’re a great role model because you want to help others. Big tick mate. Keep making your brilliant videos. Rob from UK.

I found your channel a few days ago while looking for solar info. This is an amazing story and an example for so many. You should be very proud of yourself!

Well done bud. I'm 66 just started building my own solar energy system and you're teaching me so much to help me.

I feel you. I was hit by a Ford escape from behind riding my bicycle 02oct16 at 50mph hit n run. 16 staples in my head and b.p.p.v. nerve damage face, neck and shoulder. I know what your talking about as far as reading and doing your own research. I've rode skateboards for 32-33yrs. I learned 3 days ago that I need new hips and my spine midway to bottom feels the same. Don't ever ride a bicycle with traffic. Your trusting the prescribed, drunks, and whatever pass you by. There is no law but, Natural Law that we are abound to.

Fantastic story, kid! I don't know where you are at in your life now but, I wish you nothing but everything you want out of it! I've just been coming here to wrap my head around energy storage and I've been learning so much from you! You already had my respect just by how you carry yourself and the way you present the information so easily understandable. Now I hear your story and I have to give you that much more respect! May God bless your life with abundance and keep you thankful! Thank you!

Will, this reminds me of when I lived out my 4Runner in California while going to school and starting a homeless clinic. I realized that most people that have a view of folks in shelters think that Americans can be fixed (I do think early on there is a chance, but after seeing o e guy jump an old lady I gave up). Most docs had never seen their patients on the streets, and many folks use disadvantaged people as a currently to get ahead. I’m so glad you made it. I lived very well in Europe on a reasonable wage, and now I’m stuck back in the US facing the same issues of governmental BS. You are the first person I’ve seen nail the actual net affect of these things. Keep up the good work, and I’m happy you have found your niche.

You are a smart guy. Great insights!

Good for you! I also had hard times when I was young. Somehow (through luck, nice people and hard work) things worked out great. Just because you have a rough start, doesn't mean that you have to be miserable. I would consider myself as having lived a "charmed life".

Wow Will, you are a survivor. Scratch that, it doesn't give you enough credit, so make that a "thriver" in the face of adversity. You've got my respect!

That is absolutely awesome WILL... Yeah you’re right…most people think they’re hard done by, but they’ve actually done it to themselves.

I have wondered about your story and really liked this video. Although I am 35 years older than you are, I was greatly inspired about how much you've accomplished and how you've designed your life to fit YOU. Without the adversity you've been through you wouldn't (I don't think) have the ability or motivation to do that! Anyway, I am on the verge of a huge life change--the biggest ever for me--and I took huge inspiration from this. Thanks for doing it; you've helped me a lot.

Wow. Thank you for sharing your story. I discovered your videos the other day, subscribed to your channel and have been binge-watching since then. You are a really inspiring guy. I hope you write your autobiography someday because I think a lot of people would read that book.

I have lost count of how many times I've come back here for more inspiration. I think about this video and you when times are dark and desperate. Thanks so much for all of it; your intestinal fortitude shows and it's incredibly powerful. Thank you again for sharing your story. Take care, Will!

I just bought your book to use as a reference in my presentation on Solar Power for RV Trailers. I'm also going to recommend folks to watch your videos on the subject of solar. Your videos are very good and I enjoyed watching them. You have a lot valid points and have helped perform tests that save me time for performing. So keep them coming!! With that said... it is good to see you have worked at solving your situation and I hope all goes better as time goes on. I too was homeless for a different reason and worked on a solution to get out of it. Our solutions were not easy and I myself don't take anything for granted.

I know the struggle. I feel like you just told my story. I feel off a ladder into a full five gallon paint bucket with the lid still on. I didn't feel anything from the waist down for 6 months. Then some asshole doctor I never saw told workman's comp that I was fine and no longer needed comp services. This was while I was still in the hospital not feeling my legs. After years of physical therapy and fighting with SSDI, I finally decided that I couldn't do it anymore. I sold everything and went to Hawaii. My plan was to see what I could and then end my life after the money was gone. A few days before running out of money, I finally got approved for SSDI. They sent me to an aqua therapy session where I eventually met a Master Scuba Diver Trainer who asked me if I wanted to try scuba diving. I said yes, and my life changed. Anyway, after a few years diving in Hawaii, loosing lots of weight and making my back stronger again, I decided to move back to the mainland to be closer to family. But that's when things started going bad again. I couldn't find diving jobs except bottom boat cleaning in San Diego. It was surprisingly hard work in cold water that my back couldn't handle. I was living in a Chevy G20 conversation van at the time. After traveling all over the west coast looking for work, I ended up in Crescent City, CA. I got another backpay from SSDI and was able to afford a box van converted to an RV. I'm now sitting in Pacific Shores on a small privately owned lot. It has become very hard to find a place to park and stay. I was at a local RV park until the rent went up beyond what I could afford. I have stayed here because of the weather and the ability to drive to Oregon, which is very close to do my shopping. Unfortunately, because I can't function without pain medicine, nobody is willing to hire me or insure me to work for them. So I have been studying electronic repair after getting my amateur radio license. I have been able to get a few jobs fixing things for friends, but I still have a long way to go and equipment I need to buy. I almost gave up once, now I'm too stubborn to quit. Thanks for sharing your story.

Yep! I listened to the hole thing. Wow!!! I was admiring the passion that you had in your batteries vids. But now, I admire the passion that you have after living what you lived. For sure, this is more than what I lived. You did help me allot in planning for a van built with a small budget. But now... You are setting me an example of how to live. Thank you for sharing this. Truly! If ever you are near Montreal (Canada), you have a place to park free and benefit for small commodities like showers. I hope to shake your hand one day. Again thanks :)

I enjoy watching and learning from your solar, battery, and controller reviews. Your quick thorough opinions are great. I often have to watch multiple times to capture all the info you put in them. Then I find this video and I am impressed with you attitude and hard work. It gives me faith in the future with young men like you out there making it a better place.

I asked a mechanic I trusted about Vanagons, he said stay away from them, they're junk. I like following your videos in hopes of learning something. Keep up the good work.

You may already know this write an autobiography your story will sell more then your medical journal.

You're awesome Will - love how you're keeping it real - You're a great speaker - have really been enjoying your content on Solar Power and the like - Be well!

I’m floored... You are my hero ... In spite of everything, you have nurtured a generous spirit. Keep going, be blessed even more.

I subscribed to your site because of vast and thorough solar information. I trust your opinions and reviews of products. But this is by far my favorite video.

Wow, quite a story! I have watched a number of your videos about solar charging stuffs but known nothing about you till now. Great to see your success! All the best.., thank you for all your great tutorial videos!!!

Survived, dynamic, intelligent...so glad I subscribed 🤘

Will you are an inspiration. You are the EXCEPTION to todays youth. Damit you ain't my son but I'm proud of what you've become.

Wow I JUST found this video while searching for one of your old solar videos. I had no idea your life has such a unique story. You are an amazing individual and have not only helped people with renewable energy, but also helped others through hard times. Good on ya Will. What a stand up guy.

Wow..... You rock!!! I so needed to hear a story like this today. I hope you continue with success and achieve all your goals!!! 👍👍👍👍👍😀😀😀😀❤️❤️❤️

Man I respect you so much more now that I know more about you. Thanks for sharing your story.

Your such a wonderful person. Hope kids all over the world watch this and learn from it. I don’t know you personally but I wish I do. You can live or stay with me anytime you want. You are a producer not a consumer. You really are a survivor. I know you are in a better place now and I’ve been watching you ever since I found you on KZfaq. You are my inspiration and love your guts. You are a true grit and a genius👏👏👏

I don't think anything can stop you. You are fierce, intelligent, adaptable, realistic, creative and focused. And you still can love and have compassion and understanding for others. I'm inspired, humbled, and I deeply appreciate you sharing with us. Thank you William.

When "Story time" turns out to be "Real Talk!" I can relate to a lot of what you're saying. Took me years to build my life back up after tragedy. Tough times force you to make tough decisions. The hardest part is dealing with people that cause problems when you have done nothing to them or in some cases have no idea who they even are.

Well done fella, your a survivor, not everyone is sadly , big hello from the uk

Bravo. I don’t know you but respect you for pulling yourself up. You are a survivor and I wish more people were. Our society promotes the welfare state poor me status. I am 65yrs old and can tell you we were not always this way. I wish you well with all your endeavors.

Will, as a new subscriber, I have been spending time, hopping around your many videos learning what you have to offer on building solar installations. Electronics has been my life’s work, so I have no problem following your videos, and I enjoy the pace you present, yet you remain clear enough, so those who may not be as familiar, do not feel overwhelmed. I have taught electronic classes, (full systems) so I know how difficult it can be to both keep people’s attention and still cover the specifics. As I viewed your videos, I naturally had some questions which came to mind, then I found this video. Wow. I truly commend you for the stamina and fortitude you have displayed, despite the adversity you have experienced along the way. I find it extremely refreshing, these days, to see someone younger, not follow the whoa-is-me attitude, and sulk through life, as always, the victim. I do not see that in you at all. I have looked for an email for you but do not see one available. I am sure you probably receive enough mail to keep you busy as it is. But I wanted to get this out to you, even if in a public forum. Keep the faith Will. You have a winning recipe!

I ended up with incurable heart disease and ended up after my by pass surgery figuring out how to dissolve plague inside my cardiovascular system. When I lost everything and was homeless I hit the road and discovered how to make money on the road. I survived for 10 years traveling from town to town. What a great experience and what a wondrous scenic nation we live in.

Thanks for what you do...give an amazing example to all

Life is a road. Yours has been Rocky. You survived and now I see that you have the best attitude I've ever seen. I don't know what your purpose in life is, but I know what you've done for me. Congratulations on being a survivor. With your knowledge I never would have guessed your story. Keep helping people and keep on trucking. God bless you.

How refreshing to hear someone acknowledge their Parents weren't the best but he lay's no blame..