A Disturbing Interview with an Incestuous Family | Mark Laita

Watch the full interview here: • Discovering America's ...
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[@nateworthy530]

Mark does not exploit people. He gives a voice to people who society typically would not listen to. He has helped a number of people on the way as well.

[@Markuden]

They probably think; you get rich by taking pictures of poor people.

[@emh8861]

He said it was business. Didn’t you hear it ?

[@nateworthy530]

@@emh8861 running a business and exploiting people are two different things. He treats every single person that comes in front of his camera, that I have seen, with respect.

[@theeggtimertictic1136]

He exploits people.

[@mariejenkins-stephens6176]

He seems like nice person but some of us don’t like when they situations up close and personal ✅I appreciate it shows me how blessed we all are 🙏🏽

[@blackflagqwerty]

I watched the Whittaker video to be mortified. What I got instead was humbled, the Whittaker family were wonderful people. I really had a soft spot for Ray.

[@uPSIDEdOWN577]

But it upset me that they just let ray walk around in jeans caked with shit. I know mark saw it.

[@dan12con]

AAAH AHHH

[@TinFoilCat90]

@@uPSIDEdOWN577 Its common in backwoods hollar families. I'm from Wv- normal not backwoods lol. In small towns there are always a few families that go dirty ect. They're usually really nice people who just aren't very intelligent, very poor and just don't know any better.

[@malihahan]

Mine is for Loraine ❤️

[@silencesanchez5894]

I know. Ray is a ray of sunshine

[@chrisarm3047]

Have you seen them now?? He raised 30K for them and now they look so healthy, new cars, tv ect. This guy is a legend

[@shaunosmorrison8385]

Few renovations to the house/trailer too

[@tempo9198]

And what about Ray’s new enthusiasm for life? I love Mark’s work!

[@kenbassett5942]

And the newest gofundme is nearing another 30K. Mark is a saint and I love seeing his vids with the Whittaker's.

[@gaylynnsamson5569]

Mark is awesome the way he helps them

[@gailcurl8663]

How can Any of these people Drive?? How can they Pass a Written Drivers Test?? How can they Pay Bills?? These People Can't Do Anything Constructive. I'm surprised their Shack hasn't Burn Down by Now. Who Manages their Money?? These are Children without Supervision!! I Feel So Sorry For Those Poor Dogs. Who Remembers to Feed Them?? What a Horrific Life!!

[@sanditarin4828]

He brings awareness of just how much poverty, drugs and sexual abuse is out there creating these poor lives.

[@annaarmenta5030]

Exactly!! Sexual abuse is the main corporate behind why these individuals lives have went in the direction they had.It’s absolutely heart breaking. God Bless Mark ❤️

[@ericherrmann3799]

You missed the biggest problem with them inbreeding yea that's why they had to make it illegal you would think some one would have done something they had 15 very inbred children, nope all 15 a drain on the system.

[@annaarmenta5030]

@@ericherrmann3799 My comment was referring to Marks videos in general. These inbreeds didn’t ask to be born, it’s not their fault. Someone must help them.

[@julierutkowski7654]

some of his subjects are so so tragic. i appreciate that he always tells them they are worth saving…he is a good good soul.

[@alisastover1198]

@@elanejaques8440 bullshit!

[@austint7533]

I’m with mark. I didn’t know these people existed until his videos. And he’s given them so much in clothes, and money, and food, it’s not just all take and no give.

[@Abc-cu9db]

He’s making money from exploiting them..as long as he is helping them by buying them food and clothes the longer they will let him stick around.. it’s a win win for everybody I suppose.

[@austint7533]

@@Abc-cu9db that’s all I can get from it

[@secludedmisanthrope6388]

You didn't know that there were places in the US that are so poor and isolated that it causes them to resort to inbreeding to grow the family? Have you never heard of Kentucky, New Jersey, Rhode Island or Ohio? Incest is legal in multiple US states to this day...

[@terryt2728]

@@secludedmisanthrope6388 Haha..I live in the same area as these people. They are notorious around here because they are such an oddity. They are the only inbreed people I have ran across. There are 90k people in the county. It's not 1880 anymore.

[@DamnedSilly]

@@Abc-cu9db Yeah, mostly for him, though. Fuck this guy and his bullshit.

[@cutlasssupreme6984]

Just remember. Mark gave this family a crap ton of money due to popularity of their videos. Posting these videos and overwhelming support from the public helped this family 10 fold. Mark is a good man.

[@gailcurl8663]

And, Who Manages the Money??

[@cutlasssupreme6984]

@@gailcurl8663 no idea.

[@Clay_j_Bray]

@@gailcurl8663 educate yourself, the Information is there. No you probably don't want to do that tho..... just acting superior in you tube comments is much easier

[@pampurr1]

Da Best

[@madonnalay179]

@@gailcurl8663 I think the lady named Betty handles ALL the money the others get, like their SSI checks, and the money thay get from the gofundme account.

[@Scrapla1]

I love how Mark covers that family and treats them with dignity. I'm also glad their exposure helped them with house repairs, food, medical and other needed things.

[@hoosierladyus48]

So am I. Some of these comments make me mad. Mark has not exploited this family at all.

[@countrykitty733]

Mark could have keep the money but he help this family with many thing's.Being a person who worked with DD folks I found it very heart warming 2 see him take them 2 Walmart.

[@leeannehopkins159]

Never once have I thought that Mark was exploiting any of his subjects. If anything, he's brought awareness and has provided a platform for those who don't seem to have a voice.

[@hoosierladyus48]

100% agree!

[@stacyreyes9576]

Agree! Plus he's raising $ for the Whittaker family just by his wonderful videos on them! Love Mark's work!

[@debrascott8492]

I do not feel that Mark is exploiting anyone. He actually has the fortitude and guts to show America what America does not want to see. It is my opinion, that his Soft White Underbelly videos should be used within the public school system. Maybe these videos would be a deterrent for kids to avoid drugs/alcohol/pregnancy/abusive relationships and so many other things.

[@feminineelegancechannel5095]

I couldn't have said it better sis! He deserves an award!

[@liftedmage8102]

Think about the name of it, the soft white underbelly, just like a reptile, soft underbelly vulnerable people in vulnerable positions, to be humiliated and vulnerable from all walks of life to every other lizard or dragon its butter sweet just like every interview and all the things he does for these people, I agree could open up the head of some kids and would work probally alot better then the D.A.R.E program ever would have

[@brandonmay3094]

👌🏼👌🏼👌🏼

[@Iamyl4]

Agree

[@jazaniac]

using those videos as freak shows to scare children into not doing drugs is the definition of exploitation.

[@webmastersof]

I donated twice to this family. Every time a video is posted by this guy on this family I will donate. My heart goes out to them.

[@melstark7265]

That’s very nice of you.

[@user-zq3qd8ui5o]

Such a kind caring soul, you are…….

[@These-nutz]

🙏 that’s a nice thing to do, you will be rewarded for it in some way shape or form

[@lindapfister2484]

Where do you fund go fund me to donates

[@anabolicanimal7365]

How much u give peasant??

[@dougwilson6778]

Mark took them all to Walmart and he bought them whatever they wanted, bless his soul

[@gramking3222]

And these people who seem so disconnected bought sensible usable items. Nothing they bought was an impulsive just bc I want it buy.

[@cyn4246]

@@gramking3222 yes they were not greedy and Mark was so wonderful and told them to please get anything you want. Fill up those carts. These people have very little and yet they were not greedy like most people would be.

[@mountainwoman4924]

Doug Wilson, I remember that trip and enjoyed watching them enjoy themselves. Ray stopped at one point and showed a lady, who worked in the store, his knee that was hurting from arthritis. The lady respectfully and kindly commiserated with him. After seeing several videos of them, I have finally begun to understand what the nonspeakers are saying. Betty understands all of them, all of the time. Bless Betty...she holds the family together. Bless Mark for finding the family with the policeman and improving their lives. I'll bet there are people who live near each of us that need help getting back on their feet. How many of us have started a "go fund" like Mark did for the Whitakers? Just taking a bag or 2 of decent groceries and setting them anonymously on their steps, ringing the doorbell and leaving without expecting anything on return, that's loving your neighbor. Mark's a good and loving man.

[@cindysemblante4411]

I loved when he took the family to Walmart for a shopping spree. They all had so much fun. It was super sweet when Ray took Marks hand when they were walking. There is certainly a connection between Mark and this family

[@vickyhanson7307]

I wonder if Ray would like suspenders.

[@NittyGritty420]

Mark looks amazing for a man in his 60s

[@smitty0159]

No way! He’s in his 60’s??? WOW

[@nurseanastasialiberty]

@@smitty0159 Hi, Mark is a close friend of mine. He is 61. Turning 62 very soon. He has always looked great for his age.

[@joshipp761]

Really? Unbelievable 🤗

[@lth1072]

I'm 41 and he looks younger than I do 😄

[@ares679]

60?? i'm 23 and i more likely look older than him

[@karyannfontaine8757]

I think mark has made so much difference in the Whittakers lives. He helped the family, treated them with respect. Mark shows many of us many aspects of areas and also interesting people some of us would never see or meet. Thank you Mark, for all your good works and respecting other humans.

[@keithbrunson7190]

Mark is the first person Ever to go out into society and demonstrate how “the bottom of the barrel” live. No one has roamed the country to show the underbelly of poverty. There is no such of award for his craft because he invented this video genre. He’s the real deal. A one of a kind original.

[@HokkaidoSan]

What? 👀 You must be new to documentaries then. There are countless documentaries about poverty, not just in the US but all around the world. Even here on KZbin, there are some many docs of life as a homeless and whatnot. He isn't the first one and sure won't be the last, specially how technology and cameras are so readily available to everyone. The thing with Marks videos is that he presents it with his own style, one that has a candid glimpse of what it's like where the subject is front and center to tell their stories without much bells and whistles. It's really great but don't undermine a whole genre of artists, filmmakers, and documentarians lol

[@dantekanter5851]

yeah, definitely not the first but he's good at it!

[@Bella-ht5jb9he3z]

There was another guy who's dad was a doctor and would go to the Holler to help the sick who couldn't afford to pay. When he grew up he was a photographer and found a family like this. There is a book and a documentary called The True Meaning Of Pictures by Shelby Lee Adams. I watched the documentary. I will never forget this family lived in 3 tiny shacks. They were a product of incest. The mom said she had 16 kid's but most of them died. She had 2 older son's living with her. She said her other son recently died. He was older and liked to play on the rail road tracks behind the shacks. And he got hit by the train. The two brother's had to get his body and as you can imagine that must have been horrible. This family is even better off. Think Amazon might have the documentary. You Tube used to but I don't see it.

[@lml656]

I can't tell if this comment is sarcastic. Mark is the *first person ever* to document the extremely disenfranchised? *No one* has ever looked at this portion of American society? There's *no award* for this kind of stuff? Do you hate Mark, my guy?

[@ZenMonkeyGod]

If I were to put in a word, I would say he wins a humanitarian award.

[@aspjake123]

This is what true journalism is supposed to be. Non biased and presented with facts and at times, compassion. Well done Mark.

[@rickstevens7292]

why is it disturbing? it is a realistic documentation of something most of us will never experience. drop the labels and treat all humans with equal respect until they give you reason to do otherwise.

[@QBeezy444]

All for love, love for ALL. ❤️

[@FardtilUshid]

I super agree, but it's fair to be disturbed when dude says hello in Labrador

[@rageofstate2695]

The doc maker used the label "disturbing" to discuss his experience with a family he blindly assumed had sex with each other. So the subjects of this documentary is being deliberately presented to us in a negative way.

[@harrynac6017]

@@rageofstate2695 At least go and watch his videos on "Soft White Underbelly" before you make a bigger fool of yourself.

[@patricklaurojr7427]

Yea that's not what Mark said tho this is other guys pod cast mark would never said that

[@barb679]

Marks work is award wining and ground breaking. Have compassion and respect for your fellow man. God Bless

[@SeekoGT]

Which awards has he won?

[@DamnedSilly]

@@SeekoGT The one he gives himself every night when he pats himself on the back and says "Good job, Mark!"

[@jbmueller1847]

He deserves an award

[@mcmac6]

What you are doing Mark ...is a gift to humanity. Thank you

[@James-dontgiveuponJesus]

Mark is a kind hearted soul who does not turn his face away from people that others would not even look at, this is warming to the heart

[@HockeyDad6631]

Marks videos are raw and sometimes hard to watch. They make you think about things you don't like to see or hear, and that's what makes them so great.

[@MSK_76]

Excellent job of not interrupting your guest with questions and letting them speak! I enjoyed listening to Mark’s stream of consciousness.

[@ianjacka469]

Terrible job of writing titles though. 'disturbing' is an inaccurate and tactless description.

[@MSK_76]

@@ianjacka469 Great job writing your opinion about someone else’s opinion. Well done.

[@ianjacka469]

@@MSK_76 Thankyou.

[@loriprebil7691]

⁷⁷⁷⁷⁷7⁷7⁷the only way that

[@ZenMonkeyGod]

@@MSK_76 How are they wrong on that though? Clearly you take some issue with the comment.

[@PicoAndSepulveda]

I love Mark's fascinating work. His subjects open up to him because he respects them.

[@samscott2485]

You can see how happy they are to see him. And you can see and hear how happy he is to see them. He's like part of their family to them. He's done so much to help them and their standard of living has got so much better. His compassion is a lesson to us all.

[@Gaeldx]

I accidentally stumbled upon one of mark videos and got hooked on the first one, it really grew me as a person to be able to witness the truth about all these people and their environnements, one thing is for sure, i don't take as much for granted and cherish the comfort i have

[@karenp4394]

Initially I felt like he was exploiting people until I really watched the videos. Pay attention to his interaction with these people. He makes them human. We would turn our heads on the street and walk on by. He makes it safe for them and for us to see them as fellow human beings. If he only befriended them to get his video, then yes he is exploiting them. He forms a bond with them. They can tell he cares, and you can feel it when you watch it. I hope that Mr. Laita is taking care of his own mental health too. Some of these stories are traumatizing.

[@MrCarolineiscool]

I agree. I was initially a little weirded out but then I got to see the relationships he formed with several repeat interviewees. When Amanda came back after getting sober, I really got to see the love and empathy Mark puts into the world. To get to see her glow like that was truly incredible, and because of Mark her legacy of strength and resilience is immortalized.

[@michaeloberg3018]

By definition, he is exploiting them actually. If he was not exploiting them he would not film them and he would not show it to others. But there is a difference between good exploitation & bad exploitation... For the most part he has refrained from exploiting the Whittaker family in a bad way (at least things are presented honestly even if it could be considered embarrassing). The main thing to recognize here is that by exploiting this family he has raised lots of money for them to repair their homes and to better their situation... There's no way to claim that's a bad thing whether he's exploiting them or not!

[@candaceharris3675]

He's giving people a platform to tell their stories who wouldn't be able to tell their stories otherwise. It's a beautiful thing.... What he's doing! Bring awareness to others and give a voice to those who society sees as "damaged". They are real people too. They are no less than any one else & they deserve to have their story heard!

[@debrabolton9372]

Mark is a special person. He has compassion for those he interviews. He has done much for the Whitaker family through the years.

[@SwedishLatino]

Mark has helped so many people.. Without him they would've never been heard or seen. Even those he has never met, he has helped. We are millions that are grateful for your hard work, Mark

[@donaldcampbell9219]

Mark’s a hero. The kindness he showed to these people is extraordinary.

[@willieshelton8295]

Yesss the Walmart trip 🤧❤️

[@1010QUEEN7]

🎯🎯🎯

[@daisygirl1217]

For some reason I only learned about his documentaries yesterday! I am completely hooked. I suffer from major depression and each time I have watched a clip of his I learn so much. I don't feel so alone. I feel for all of them in some sort of way. To me it's been therapeutic and I am so grateful of the work Mark is doing for us and for those he interviews. I wish we had more like him who have a caring and compassionate heart for those who are suffering and actually does something to help them. Thank you Mark!

[@cindyb8775]

Daisy, I hope your depression lifts and you find healing and are feeling better. Depression is hard. Mark gives us hope doesn't he? He has lifted up these people -- my fellow mountaineers. He has given them dignity and enriched their lives.

[@MISNM0]

💛🪴

[@1tarawho]

Thank you Mark for bringing awareness to others about people that live and act differently from "normal" society. Showing kindness to others no matter what they look like, have, or what their handicap is, is crucial in showing our humanity ❤️..

[@manhattanmama4192]

I love his channel. I don’t feel its exploitive. He’s showing the real world. The poverty. The addictions. The heartache. Its raw and its his interviewees’ truth. Most people don’t get to hear about gang members or sex workers or skid row people. I absolutely love his videos.

[@benvallentine7197]

This isn't a disturbing interview. Koncrete have disrespected MArk's great work with this unthoughtful title. Thanks for your great videos Mark!

[@somewhiteguy8444]

Gotta get them clickbait views

[@urbanorocha9180]

Yup.

[@ianjacka469]

Took the words out of my mouth, bet KONCRETE are glad the dislike button is gone.

[@Gerber-tq3vp]

I agree to a point. Although I'm thinking he may have used "disturbing" as to the fact that this family lives the way they do. Insest is disturbing, so is poverty on that level in the richest nation on earth. Just giving him the benefit of the doubt. Stay happy and healthy friends.

[@scientistwithanaxe2570]

The disturbing interview isn't THIS one, it's the ones Mark did with the Whitakers. Disturbing sounds like a bad word but many people would be disturbed by the poverty and disability that Mark reveals, and rightfully so

[@linkedinlove106]

Mark, I was glad to hear I wasn't just being ignorant about the communication difficulties with the Whitakers - you initially found it difficult too. The difference is, I wouldn't have gone back, but you did - and you went even further to get much needed help for them. Great life lesson I really took to heart.

[@ednaatluxton4918]

I've watched his series with this family. They need help and more funding on his page. They have serious health issues. Don't blame them for their parents and ancestors mistakes.

[@RCorbzz]

Other than food and water what do you think they really want? They have peace in the fact the dont know things could be better. Just like a tribe that is untouched

[@ednaatluxton4918]

@RCorbzz I believe Ray is actually autistic like my grown nonverbal son. Some wifi hookup, some tablets or vtech equipment to help him communicate or teach him to read or communicate with pecs. If the sick ones die off he needs to be able to with others. Pecs(pictures) even when taken with cameras of everyday objects food drink family cars drs etc really help. Over the counter medicines with directions for future use. Seeds galore. Canning supplies. Lots for people off the grid.

[@rtorbs]

​@@RCorbzz Want ? No idea, Need ? More gene diversity clearly.......

[@Cropsykills]

@@rtorbs was that comment needed?

[@katelyntrammell6151]

@RCorbzz better access to resources for one. Non hazardous and safer living environment. More access to medical/health care. One of the videos Ray was yelling in pain because of his knee. They constantly need surgeries, medications, and appointments because of their many health problems. They have gotten many things provided for them and several renovations to improve their quality of life. But they could still benefit from more.

[@sierra659]

this man is a national treasure among all humans.

[@Trex4201]

It’s “disturbing” because inbreeding is disturbing, I don’t care HOW you paint the picture. Children being born into a family where sex amongst family members is normal and thus results in extreme genetic deformities is the utmost disturbing. Now, do I agree these people deserve respect and help, yes. Of course. But I’m not going to sugar coat the situation by saying it’s not disturbing. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@juliia2449]

@L P I don’t know what argument you’re trying to make, it’s still disturbing

[@juliia2449]

@L P what the fuck are you talking about lmao

[@juliia2449]

@L P I am very aware that this happend not only in Egypt but also throughout Europe. That doesn’t make it right

[@Trex4201]

@L P Disturbing then and disturbing now. Like I said, I do not care how you paint the picture! And I’m fairly sure the dude barking like a dog in this video ain’t living like no Pharaoh! So chill with your history lesson, bruh.

[@stephaniecoomey2356]

@@juliia2449 he was trying to say because it happened in the past it’s okay if it happens now. Lol! Just flawed idiotic logic..

[@TylerShacklefordDurden]

Just because it makes you sad or uncomfortable doesn't mean it's exploitive. The human race NEEDS to know about this to better itself.

[@MakeWayForTheLion]

Amen. I'll even take it 1, 2, 3 steps further: 1. Viewers who can't get past their emotional disturbance ultimately *devalue the Whittakers' humanity and worth* as individuals. They aren't helpless, and they don't appear to need or even _want_ special treatment. Love and respect is all they're owed, just like the rest of us. 2. Viewers who choose to take offense end up being *blind to the compassion and selflessness* that is evident throughout Mark's work, in turn overlooking the peaceful contentment that defines this family far more than any "disturbing" details. 3. Those who outright refuse to even acknowledge their negative emotions - but instead force them onto others through criticisms, slander and baseless accusations - are not just blind to the humanity and selflessness shared between Mark and the Whittakers ... But are actively committing the same contemptuous disrespect they first accused Mark of showing. This sort of irrational hypocrisy is alarming, and whatever inner turmoil leads people to this is a far bigger issue to deal with than a photographer visiting a mild-mannered family living quietly in the mountains.

[@CannibalChxrry]

Mark is a wonderful soul. His team is so compassionate. I adore his videos, especially the Whittaker family. They seem like wonderful people born to unfortunate circumstances. It's not disturbing at all. It's unfortunate, but they are genuine people.

[@funguscake]

So awesome he goes back to say "hello" country folk really appreciate that Also really appreciate Mark's empathy, especially with people in the more rural areas tend to get over looked. They can be racist, ignorant, not intelligent, that tends to make people think that they are getting what the deserve. When in reality they are victims of their environment and we have to change what's wrong so the next generations have a chance

[@darlal2698]

Mark is DEFINITELY NOT exploiting this family. He has helped them sooo much by loving them for the last 15 yrs. They love and trust him. Thank you Mr. Mark for being a true friend to them They are truly precious. How can I help?

[@MisterXenomorph]

I admire the fact that he still talks about them in a respectfull manner. He genuingly seems to have enjoyed the brief time he spent with them.

[@MELISSA604]

Marks videos are AMAZING! He sheds light on people who aren’t thought of and has a talent for sharing their stories.

[@catthoagland4997]

Mark and his channel are amazing and give a voice to everyone and anyone without judgement. Thank you, Mark, for letting everyone be seen.

[@CatalinaFOIA]

Mark is wonderful ❤ I'm so glad that he is now friends with the family and they absolutely trust him; when Mark shows up they welcome and invite him in with open arms. Thank you Mark.

[@OrneryWoman]

As a legal Medical Proxy and executor of 2 disabled brothers, I think this is the most wonderful thing anyone could do. I’ve always told my disabled guys….. Your not to be made fun of., your a lesson to be learned. People judge too quickly without knowing the whole backstory. This story touches my heart. I found myself getting attached to this family. Ray is so happy spirited, Timmy is always smiling, Lorraine is sweet and Betty and her brother hold them all together. They do need protection. I love what this man and the public have done to help them. It’s not all about the poverty level.

[@triphop1681]

It's not exploiting them. You're raising awareness. I, for one; find stories like this thought provoking and fascinating. Thank you for sharing it.

[@MsChicky1991]

Mark does amazing warm hearted videos and he’s kind ❤️

[@personlady2438]

I love Mark’s work. He’s a kind soul.

[@dpberry]

Great to know the backstory to the video. Mark was kind and friendly to that family and he didn't do anything upsetting. It was wonderful to see there are some living in our country that need so much more help than they're getting. I hope videos like these help those in need.

[@prindy]

From the very first video to the latest you can see the difference in how they react when they see Mark. From being guarded and weary to smiles and laughter.........this is so lovely to see how human connection and acceptance can lead to love and joy. 🙏 To Mark & everyone behind the scenes to the Whittaker Family, who, despite knowing first hand ridicule and cruelty STILL let a total stranger into their private life and home. TRUST & AUTHENTICITY are qualities recognised at the core of every living thing🙏

[@sevenspecies1654]

I am thrilled to see all the people supporting Mark! Especially regarding the whittakers! He has helped them in so many ways &not to mention they have grown to really trust Mark& are always happy to see him. I'm thankful Mark has become their friend & people from all over the world have helped them because of Mark.

[@deborahford7479]

Ive started to watch alot of Marks videos and he has so much kindness and compassion for others, He lets homeless people get in his car and offers to feed them or what ever they need. I think he is doing wonderful things for people none else would give the time of day to. I say "Thank you " to Mark !

[@mikegresko7144]

This dude is one of the realest people on ALL OF THE INTERNET. Love Soft White Underbelly, more shit like that should exist on these platforms. We could all learn so much about each other and understand our communities so much more.

[@raeperonneau4941]

It’s amazing what treating people with respect will do. Regardless of anyone’s circumstances, condescension is deeply felt. People know if you’re willing to see them in their best light and your portrayal of this family is done with honor and they knew it.

[@garsu1229]

I have watched him with this family for a long time melted my heart so much

[@strokin3s]

Mark does a great job. The Whittaker’s love him and he has helped them financially by collecting donations to help improve their lives. 👍

[@dianekeegan5250]

I live in Ireland and found out about the whitakers through Mark..I found him engaging and very respectful while trying to get a better knowledge of this family's history..obviously they are inbred but it's not their fault ..Well done Mark you are a lovely kind well mannered man ..pity there isn't more like you ..Greetings from Ireland 🇮🇪♥

[@waynemcdonnell1765]

He brings a voice to people that wouldn't usually get a place to share their voices

[@ALEXMGFASHION]

Mark is not exploiting but he is exposing to all of us KZbin community what’s going on out there! Without him I would not even know that families like that even existed!! Thanks Mark for educating us all of what some families how to go through their lives, in such a poverty conditions, and the inbreeding is completely unacceptable-

[@kevinjenkins6986]

What a great interview. I love Mark's channel, and I think it is important for people to be able to see people on the fringes of our society and what they have to go through. It humanizes them and maybe helps other people understand who they are and why they are that way. I live in western PA and have been to other parts of Appalachia, notably WV, and have done charity work for impoverished people. Go to the poorest state in the union and then tell me America is "great"... you'll see the back end of capitalism, and it's not pretty.

[@oldironsides4107]

Agreee I made my generational wealth Orr railroad bums and hobos. I’d given them money to talk about trials and tribulations. A little more.and we would get in depth The most money I would make would have them eat a turd. Let a pit bull attacks them. Throwing batteries at them. Throwing them in wells or sewers.kicking there groins in. I once wore a beekeeper suit and out a hornets nest on a railroad bums head. They all signed off and we’re paid The end of one tape on Xmas we hand a bum a box and he says “ it ain’t shit again indt it “ It wasn’t but when he opened a bunch of pinesol bleach and lightbulbs grinded to powder. Then staff kicked his groin in. And they were paid before and had consent to make money off there bum luck. Went back was going to give 10k in cash to thes railroad bums. Mmost fled like water bugs as they saw us other dropped in a fetal position ( their natural defense) We gave them money they ate old raw fish. One guy ate the dry ingredients of a cake. 8! Eggs 2 cups of flour. Tbs of vanilla 3 cups of sugar. Molten hot fudge then everyone kicked his groin in

[@oldironsides4107]

We had one guy eat a 20’pc of chicken but we ate the meat and this railroad bum at the bones of all these birds. Then got his groin kicked In. Put a funnel on his mouth where we dumped a gallon of whiskey. But it was horse urine.

[@oldironsides4107]

One dosser we threw metal ripped darts at 100 darts for 99 days and 100 nights at least rancho motel. And then punted his groin in We did a lot of good for these street vagrants. If one of thes bums would have done this themselves they would be millionaire. Probably gave close to 200k to these bums for stories and pranks and signatures. One guy swallowed maybe a 4 foot ball python without chewing The same with a maybe 6# catfish. And I forget what kind of eel. But they’re maybe 3-5ft kind skinny and black. So many ssallowd those whole Huge toads and bullfrogs they ate but had to put the whole huge amphibian in there mouth chew it up and nothing can fall out of theee mouth These people are resilient and I respect them so much.

[@BlowinFree]

@@oldironsides4107 you sound utterly demented

[@TequilaSunset_]

@@BlowinFree how ironic on a video of this nature.

[@ChicReal]

Mark, you show empathy to many when most would look the other way. God bless you for helping those in need and for giving them a voice to tell their story. You're AMAZING!! 🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻

[@lauriegreenhow9929]

It’s both fascinating and heartbreaking, I hope they get some help ❤️

[@marialiyubman]

That woman who takes care of them.. she never married.. she’s making up for her parent’s mistakes. It’s so heartbreaking… Yeah, last time the government and corporations got involved with “philanthropy”, they experimented on these people and exterminated or sterilized them… poverty is better.

[@mackenziefletcher3506]

And mark implies they are stupid inbreeds that you point and laugh at bc he’s such a great guy

[@TheSubMagnet]

I don’t get it, what happened to the family?

[@theacollins7675]

@@mackenziefletcher3506 how does he imply that?

[@mackenziefletcher3506]

@@theacollins7675 have u not listen to what he says the first couple of seconds he calls them an inbred family and is laughing wtf

[@mackenziefletcher3506]

@@theacollins7675 when did the Whittaker’s ever said they were inbred why does he keep insisting they are inbred??

[@kurtaaron9478]

Love Mark and the work he does. America needs to wake-up, watch, listen and learn what's happening with their neighbors.

[@krissisnow6964]

Mark gave that sweet family a voice no one else ever did. He helped them tremendously & showed a lot of people into a world we otherwise never would’ve known about .. I’m so happy for them, with his help, they’ve been given the opportunity to live life a little easier now

[@jamesparlett1419]

I went to college in Southern WV in the early nineties. My girlfriend at the time who was from Raliegh County told me about the Whitakers. I was born and raised in the DC metro area and I was incredulous at the notion. It sounded like some local legend. "The Whitakers in Odd only speak in grunts and barks because they're so inbred" she told me. I heard it from other people too. Thanks to Mark I know it was no legend.

[@chris2162003]

they dont speak because of inbreed they never been taught actual english. speech therapy etc. they in the past could done it.

[@rosannepurvis3278]

Its Something that needs to be told

[@faithhughes2795]

Mark you should win an award for the work you do by bringing families that walk the walk of struggles and not many are aware of . You have such patience and I live that

[@robertdemitro1520]

Mark has a great social conscience ! He also has a big heart . I don't know how he able to speak and interview these people that society forgot or just shuts out . I would be in tears after speaking with some the people he interviewed and I am sure Mark has shed a few tears for the people who almost made it out of a tortured life , but died or relapsed . Mark is showing the World that these people are human and had no control over the circumstances they were born into . God bless you Mark ! 🙏

[@mylittledogshoppesouthpark1350]

Your documentary and portraits struck a personal chord with me. While an undergraduate student in the late 1970-s I tutored kids in a family in Webster's Crossing, NY. They also lived in extreme poverty. Drug use issues, money issues, a daughter went to big city to prostitute to make money, rats in the walls, dirt floors and bad nutrition. But the most generous people I ever was to meet. Served my their last hotdog they had one night. I was humbled. Thank you for your wonderful work. We can all do even small things to make a big difference to others.

[@mystijkissler8183]

Mark is today's Hero, period. He follows up and helps many of these unfortunate humans; We should all care about these people.

[@jackieakamamabird540]

You can see that they enjoy your visits. You may be all the company they have. They don't look scared at all. You have built a relationship with this family, an I can see the happiness on their faces when you go visit them. The Walmart trip was one of my favorites. You have a great heart... Keep doing you. Showing love from Tennessee. Oh an the mountain woman Ruby is when I got hooked on your channel. I just love miss Ruby.. All of your interviews are great. Keep on doing what you do.... Happy Holidays.

[@somewhiteguy8444]

Especially Ray, Ray loves Mark.

[@delorisbrown6822]

Mark is doing what of the rest of us should do the Bible tells us to go into the high ways and by ways and complle them to come in he is doing work for Jesus he has a calling that most don't understand just how much love do we have for others it may be a test from god rethink people thanks

[@annatetiad.4991]

Mark is a legend shedding light on situations that many of us would never see unless he did this work. My heart goes out to the Whittaker family - I found Mark did such great work and treated them with respect and dignity. I really enjoyed watching the Soft White Underbelly pieces. I loved watching Mark taking them to WalMart. The entire family is adorable - thank you Mark for doing this work and supporting people from the shadows essentially.

[@chrishinson7081]

I stumbled across these videos...Wow!!!! I was kind of grossed out about their living situation but they are sooooo happy that changed my thinking. I wish I had their heart and their gratefulness.

[@caranandrews3491]

What an Amazing & Thoughtful guy Mark is. He has highlighted this Family's needs . In the hope that others in Society WILL sit up AND Recognise that The Whittaker Family NEED Help & Nurturing. Well Done & Thank You Mark, you CARE so much that it shines through your work. Bless You for helping this Family in their hour of NEED.

[@jilliejohnson5788]

Because Mark has made the video of the Whittaker family. I fell in love with that family. I can see the innocence they all possess and their happiness with not much. They are an inspiration for me. I thank Mark for sharing them. They are the true celebrities now!

[@thumperasasha2201]

Mark has a comforting energy around him of just genuine care, it took a little trust building but it's getting there now. I don't think they know how to respond to some questions well because they seem to struggle to articulate in ways but many people do, I also think they were raised to keep things hush hush by an elder, it happens often sadly in incestuous families. They make you fear talking.

[@hoosierladyus48]

Mark has done a wonderful job interviewing this family. Without his help, no one would have known about them. They are now fixing up their trailer from the donations that have poured in from people watching. Mark took them to Walmart and let them pick out anything they wanted. I think Ray is every ones favorite. Mark, thank you for doing what you do.

[@RoseBudzArt]

What mark has done for this family is amazing. ❤️

[@gabrieliligan1416]

This guy is greater than some of the Nobel prize winners.

[@angela_tarantulas]

I follow Marks video channel for quite a time, I‘ve seen all the footage about the Whittaker family and at first I was shocked, how they were living and existing. But: without Mark I would never know that they are existing and how other realities and lives are! And I really like the family he portrays, waitinf for updates on them. And I’m thankful, that he - with help of donations - could improve the family’s life and home! Thank you Mark 🍀

[@hoosierladyus48]

I feel the same way.

[@myraseeger4707]

I think what Mark has done for this family is just beautiful...how many ppl would go out of their way in the back woods and even try to help...they are messed up and they know they are different...but they are so innocent in their attitudes that we capable ppl could learn that if these ppl can love unconditionally each other what the hell is wrong with our society that we carry so much hate for each other? I love this family...we think they are messed up...look around within our own families and see the messed up things we do to each other...sad...keep up spreading love amongst the most needy of our world...love you and your work...

[@giselle7163]

Marks videos are amazing and give all kinds of people a voice. Im obsessed with his work and approach to interviewing.

[@TequilaSunset_]

Very well composed, he’s putting out a good message.

[@jackieakamamabird540]

Love your channel, keep doing what you do. I enjoy all of your work. Showing some love. Happy holidays to you and your family.

[@taviakane2807]

Marks calm empathy and ability to treat everyone, no matter who they are or what they're doing to themselves, with equal respect, is amazing..

[@overlandadventures1]

I wish more than anything that a housekeeping company can donate their time to come and clean up their home and organize it for them. Also, put in a proper floor especially during the winter.

[@biggs7109]

man im glad this random cop got him into video i love watching all his video interviews he is very natural at it.

[@hannahbrown4137]

It’s not disturbing. My family is from a small town near the West Virginia border. Life is so unbelievably rough for families everywhere but especially their. Many don’t understand, I’m glad someone is helping them and giving them help

[@tnreprasentog7769]

Mark is a saint.. his videos are awesome... He gives a voice to people no one would listen too otherwise..

[@getin3949]

I think you've done some really beautiful work interviewing all of these individuals. The black and white photos I love the most.

[@gooberthoreau]

The poverty and quality of life in many of these Appalachian communities is tragic, but society at large tends to think of these people as the problem and not people deserving of empathy.

[@111111111Tiger]

Mark is great, he is raising awareness. You hear about people that do the things in his videos. He is opening the door to actually meet some of these people.

[@traveltimes4109]

Love your videos, and you r shining lights on what is out there! Always educating!

[@3_KNIVES]

"Like that little scene from 'Deliverance' that everyone knows."... I got a chuckle out of that.

[@kellibreen3325]

I so so wish I could do what you do. Interesting, compassionate NOT exploited at all. You're bringing real things to light. Love you so much. Your spirit is remarkable.

[@KenTeel]

Mark, you're doing a public service. Don't listen to those who talk negative about what you do. You are exposing realities, and that can help people understand the dangers of certain behaviors and attitudes. Good job, Mark.

[@ritzygirl6838]

His content is by far my favorite to watch. He’s amazing and so are a lot of the people he interviews

[@mrsb8629]

I love the Whittaker's ❤️ Thank you Mark for bringing there story to the internet. We are all so blessed to be able to pray and donate to them..