Entrepreneur Takes the Road Less Traveled
By Katelyn Allen on Monday, November 3, 2025
Grant Willbanks did not start his YouTube channel with the goal of building a following. His first video was simply to document a camping trip. When the video got more views than expected, this encouraged him to make more.
“Arkansas Offroad” blends rugged terrain with authenticity and humor. His favorite video is titled “Toyotality,” where he and his friends traveled the Ozark National Forest trails to watch a total solar eclipse. “[‘Toyotality’ is] full of vehicle breakages, hard trails, water crossings, good times, great camp food and an unforgettable viewing of a very rare total solar eclipse,” Grant said.
Although his channel opened new doors, including his role as Marketing Director at Backwoods Adventure Mods, Grant is intentional about keeping the channel a passion project.
“People always ask when I’m going full-time,” Grant said. “But I want it to stay fun. I never want it to feel like a burden.”
Originally from Bentonville, Grant studied Graphic Design at John Brown University, but his creativity isn’t limited to the screen. From playing drums and guitar to mountain biking Northwest Arkansas trails, his interests are as diverse as the landscapes he explores.
“Be different,” Grant said. “Don’t follow the crowd. People subscribe to you, not just your content.”
