Why does Les say he could never teach just to a camera?
He could never teach just to a camera because he needs a live audience present. The people who come from far and near help him, and he directs his teaching to that group. Once he begins, he forgets the cameras and speaks to those gathered, not merely to the television audience.
Les explains that he could never teach just to a camera because he values the live audience that gathers for the taping. He notes that people come in from far and near, including Arkansas and other areas of Oklahoma, and he is thankful they take the time and effort to come and help with the teaching. Once he starts teaching, he forgets about the cameras and talks directly to the group right there, so some remarks may not be meant for the national audience. He also points out that none of it is edited, so whatever he says he has to live with.