Inside Inner-City America - Breaking Hood Mindset 🇺🇸

[@PeterSantenello]

Thanks for watching! ► Tommie's website: www.tommiemabry.com/ ► Insta: instagram.com/drtommiemabry/ ► FB: facebook.com/tommie.mabry ► X: www.x.com/tommiemabry/

[@dertythegrower]

Good work Tommie 🇺🇲🙏

[@Tatman1212]

This world needs a million more Tommies! God bless you sir

[@MissDoreen]

Peter 😊Happy Saturday. It is soo wonderful having you back!! Missed ya😉 I hope you & Natalia are happy, healthy and well 😊 Love Doe 🦌❤️

[@ape3243]

Don't usually comment on stuff, but I gotta say, Tommie makes me actually believe in humanity again. Far ways out, but keep going Tommie

[@jessjamesferrell]

@PeterSantenello Brother please hit me up when you get to the coast, I'm SOOO excited you're headed our way! Moss Point & Pascagoula should be featured, we have deep history, a loving communities, beautiful beaches and rivers, it's truly an amazing place. P.S. I can introduce you to the Mayor of Moss Point (i'm running his re-election campaign), business owners, and residents, I've lived here all my life. We desperately need someone to share our communities with the world.

[@CD3WD-Project]

If every American watched your videos I think we'd all get along better. You truly do a service to what are country really is.

[@abvevo6406]

Completely agree, we just need a vast majority of society to stop watching mainstream news outlets and horrible tiktok crap. 👀

[@flysky6248]

True and very informative content.

[@3RI6UY0]

You’re wrong. Society today as a whole is pathetic. Especially in the US. 🤙 Keep dreaming tho.

[@poppygoldensun]

@@abvevo6406 💯

[@JP-xq7fo]

Yeah citizens whom cut the cord and watch on the ground reporting like this are truly doing this country a favor… The cable Fox, CNN, MSNBC, etc. Zombies are doing the opposite…

[@RAlNYDAYS]

I barely watch TV anymore, but I do look forward to Peter’s videos. Thank you for your genuine high quality journalism. I am very grateful these videos are free.

[@MrBadBean]

I'm From the UK where the TV programs are absolute rubbish which I also do not watch any more, I also look forward to these great videos seeing real people and how they live this is real tv.

[@dertythegrower]

Prople who go out... take a risk, and actually listen are the true 'reporters' not the ones in thousand doll$r corporate suits reading a predecided script

[@dertythegrower]

Real reporting ... not abc... aka, corpo disney or comcast ceo owner approved scripted suit and tie "reporter"

[@DannyH77]

i hope more people stop watching tv

[@dertythegrower]

for sure, but..Ads pay for it, a lot of very long and sometimes totally fishy ads... heh.

[@TheAngrychipmunk96]

"They say it takes a village to raise a child right? But what if the village corrupt". - beautifully put. It's rare to see Peter push back as much as he did here, but it elicited heartfelt responses and some real truths.

[@jasonwhat5597]

If it takes a village to raise a child , you are lazy. Stop thinking others have the same interests as you. Blaming the community is lazy .

[@jetwavegaming]

⁠​⁠​⁠​⁠@@jasonwhat5597 do people like you think about what you’re saying before you type? do you know what the word community means? It requires an agreement on and the practice of certain values.

[@tjmctube]

These are the discussions we need to have at the grassroots.

[@benhardy2040]

@@jetwavegamingthat’s exactly the point. Doesn’t take a village to raise a child. It takes a good people to make a make a village. Then the child can grow up in a good village. Jordan Peterson said it best, the best way to change the world is to change yourself. If everyone in these struggling communities had that mindset of bettering themselves, then the next generation would see that and continue the forward progression.

[@nomemeshere4807]

​@benhardy2040 well that's proving the point that it does take a village right? Because maybe not every child needs a village, but the ones that do need a good one.

[@fitetransport-eydj6203]

“Bad company corrupts character” - Tommy. What a powerful message! This video needs to be seen by people of every skin color. Tommy is a man of character & vision. Strong Respect!

[@knd7777]

Do not be misled. Bad company corrupts good character- Paul 1 Corinthians 15:33

[@texas0075]

@@knd7777 Better yet here is what an actual prophet of Gods said: Abu Huraira reported: The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “A man is upon the religion of his best friend, so let one of you look at whom he befriends.”

[@AdrianKetter]

My father was the first black kid to open a bank account in Mississippi, I was always proud of that, I still have the news paper clipping. I’m the first one to go to university and first to not go to prison in my family. My kids speak 3 languages and I own a multi million dollar business not in MS but it only takes 1 generation.

[@chirchan]

Your story deserves an entire episode

[@violetsrayreikishop2]

​@@AdrianKetterit takes more than 1 generation it takes good parents and black men haven't been good at all at least a lot of them.

[@dustindenton8152]

Congratulations, but if we want to impact Mississippi the ones that are somewhat successful need to stsy in Mississippi

[@appliancedude63]

These homes don't have fathers. That's what the problem is.

[@trishajohnson1733]

That is something to be very proud of that your father was one of the first black people to open a bank account in Mississippi in his generation...but you have to go further back to the Freedman's bank in Vicksburg, which was predominantly ran by black men after the civil war. Many black people were opening bank accounts and trying to save money in order to do better for themselves and their families after slavery durring reconstruction. We can't forget those people and their struggles of trying to pave a way for themselves and future generations during a time it was extremely dangerous for them to do so.

[@senorfriskydisco1778]

"What if the village is corrupt" hit hard. Thats a straight up bar right there. I have a one year old, and we always talk about how it takes a village to raise a little one. Wise man.

[@slapoutindixie7537]

There is a lot of truth in what Tommy is saying…. It’s how kids were raised back in the 1940s and 1950s …I think it all started to change about the late 60s

[@DaniSoCali]

True true. That’s why I feel like he was talking in circles though. On one hand he wants to be the village. On the other hand, he’s saying they don’t listen & you can’t stand up bcos the youth is corrupt. They will unalive you or not listen. Not like the old days! Stuck between a rock and a hard place if you truly care. Gotta separate them & pick out the strong ones with potential to think for themselves and make it out.

[@EnTitledTown]

How about if you actually raise your own kids instead of letting the neighborhood raise them?

[@creed22solar123]

@@EnTitledTown unless you plan to lock them up in your house and never let them out you'll never be able to control what affects them when they're outside, or on the internet for that matter. If the village is corrupt there's a high chance it will affect your kids. Think before you speak.

[@dago87able]

@@EnTitledTownyou don’t get it at all, it seems

[@markoneill9064]

I’m going to say it straight up, communities like Jackson need guys like Tommy. What he has to say is of immense value because of his lived experiences, and his sheer dedication and determination. God bless you Tommy and I wish you all the very best in your endeavours.

[@ericdennis5141]

Yes, Tommie and others like him pretty much dispel the myth of systemic oppression.

[@TreysMythsandTunes]

Seriously, this story of being imprisoned for robbery in the fifth grade, getting shot before high school graduation, and getting a PhD on a basketball scholarship - despite being from one of the most crime-ridden hoods in our nation is a radically and exceptionally INSPIRING example - for all! Maybe Hollywood needs to make this into a movie (if anyone there cares to do so...)

[@jbell73986]

No they don’t, this is where folks like you miss the mark. Hes not saying it doesn’t exist, but there is no need dwelling on it, it’s to overcome those obstacles and barriers. Why would he as a mentor dwell on the negativity?

[@misspattifromcali.6955]

Check out "the GERMAN IN VENICE!!!!

[@allisonjames3024]

Correct systematic racism is everywhere. I am a civil rights activist. I see horror every day. Tommie thank you. You were brave to do the interview. Racists are on this channel, they are everywhere. Don't ever compare this to Anywhere this is america , and these are african americans who have suffered and who continue to suffer.

[@janine9871]

“Reach one, teach one” we need more of this everywhere

[@aidanw9378]

I absolutely love that Peter is not afraid to push back and challenge the people he's interviewing. He doesn't just blindly accept what they say. If he disagrees with their perspective, he'll challenge them, and that's so important. Tommy has some good points but he's also not entirely correct about everything, and I love that Peter is willing to push back some times.

[@allisonjames3024]

There was no need to push back here. I saw some ignorance.

[@DaniMrtini]

​@allisonjames3024 there's a huge need to push back. Especially coming from me a POC, I've got experience where I've grown up in similar circumstances as this dude but my parents were there 10000000% of the time working 3 jobs each as immigrants. Blame the community all you want but it all starts at home contrary to what Thomas said. Dude contradicts himself a decent amount of times as well. Now is he terribly wrong? No. He makes some good points but overall fails to convince a few times when Peter pushes back. It all goes back to the same points

[@shepardthinks]

@@allisonjames3024 Yes, Tommie's ignorance was astounding!

[@lorraine96smith56]

I can see that Tommy is well meaning, but I strongly disagreed with some things that he was saying and, he often seemed to be doing a lot of talking to support a flawed perspective.

[@ThaMobstarr]

Tbh it can come off as pretty ignorant as a white dude from the suburbs to tell a black dude from the hood how life works.

[@buddyalbert5808]

A+ on the Professor. He said the only obstacle is “not trying”. It’s 2024, no excuses left. All you have in this life are the choices you make.

[@LGPanthers1]

That dude was making poor excuses constantly and evading questions, what do you mean A+?

[@secretagentcat]

​@@LGPanthers1 yeah i dont think you watched the video at all

[@NickP16]

Peter is opening our eyes about places in America we would never think of! Keep up your amazing work, Peter. You’re changing the world one video at a time.

[@KP-ht4in]

Opening your eyes, certain ones of us have always noticed it.

[@mdsuave13]

some of us live in these places. but it is great to see the other side of the street. Life from other perspectives.

[@dablackdon]

This is nothing new.. Glad your eye are finally opening.

[@carolynensor]

Tommy I am white but grew up in dire poverty in a housing project. Now I am a retired nurse. I was first in my family to see the possibilities and now I have a nephew that is a orthopedic surgeon. My family has made the turn all because they saw me sucede. My mother had a 6th grade educatiom my father died from pancreatic cancer when I was 18 months old. Sometimes it just takes one to suceed for the others to see the possibilities!

[@TapurokNatureFarm]

Everywhere in the world, it's always that one family member who will show others that they too can succeed who will change the trajectory of the family.

[@Ken-cd5vt]

Any wyte person that's poor in America, is just sorry. You're born with the skin to win. Yall been on top for centuries through trickery,murder, and mayhem . Colonizers yall have had the upper hand this country was built on the backs of others. The Indians, Chinese blks etc...

[@scout06171]

Here’s why I think things are on the decline in every neighborhood in America. It’s that old deal with most parents where parents say they’re going to GIVE their kids a better life than they had. I’m 65 and my parents always said that. I had a better childhood but I was not taught the worth of working for things or how to plan for things or wait for things. When I became an adult I didn’t know about budgets, how to interview for a job, how to save money, etc. I overcame that by after hitting the bottom, I joined the Army and made it a career. Along the way I learned all the things I wish I’d been taught while I was a a child because the cost of not knowing that stuff isn’t as bad when one is 10 compared to when one is 35.

[@shabell405]

I understand and relate to everything you just said 😢. Thanks for this comment. We are Okay but like you said...there is so much we had to learn on our own👍🏽😊

[@jamesleyda365]

🤘

[@dovej3516]

On the other side of that is me. I was raised with the understanding I could have it better than my folks but it takes hard work on my part too. I had chore responsibilities which I had to do. It was part of my responsibilities in my family. It was also my responsibility to get a good education. The problem is parents don’t hold their children responsible for their actions usually because the parents didn’t get held responsible for their own behavior. Excuses are a dime a dozen. I remember my mom getting a phone call from the neighbor about good or bad behavior one of us kiddos did. I’m very thankful for my school system that had home economic and was required for both boys and girls. The class covered checking accounts, budgets, and of course cooking. But my parents also required us to have a checking account and helped us understand how to mange it. I’m not sure it can be done now with a bank, my parents were the primary but we were the user. Different parts of the country different upbringing.

[@roxieolemeda3196]

I too joined the Marine's at the age of 19. And I agree that I learned the survival skills I needed later in life

[@mikeabner0511]

I was taught in High School about these things.

[@K.Fulkerson]

Peter shows the love that exists between people in America. The mainstream media shows only the division and the differences. People are more alike than they are different. I grew up in nowhere Kentucky and along with my wife, hard work and consistency, we have been able to make a good life together. I’m proud of our story and stories just like Tommy’s.

[@roxieolemeda3196]

I appreciate what Peter does in showing that we have alot more in common. And there's genuine good people out there. We have to stop being influenced by the bias media that's just geared at causing division and hate

[@K.Fulkerson]

@@roxieolemeda3196 amen!

[@K.Fulkerson]

@@k1_w3 people are more alike than different because most people love their families and friends and want to reach a certain level of happiness and success. The places we live are not the things that make us alike, it’s the things that we want for ourselves, our family, and our friends. There are many people that live in the worst places that want the same things as anyone else. Their ability to leave those situations behind may be limited but that doesn’t mean that they don’t want the same things that a better neighborhood has to offer.

[@K.Fulkerson]

@@k1_w3 not sure when communities in Europe and Africa came into the conversation but ok 👍🏼 I’m definitely missing your point.

[@kchal0]

@@k1_w3I’m sure you’re just trying to troll and be racist but I’ll bite. Can you explain to me why wealthier black communities don’t have the same problems you speak of? If the only reason these communities fail is the tone of someone’s skin? It’s almost like the difference in economic status matters.

[@kd7129]

I'm 53. I drive truck over the road. I see many different places and many different people. The best and the worst. The bad really bring you to a point where when you see people and you just don't want to know if they're not good people, you just keep to yourself and move on. I'm that privileged middle age conservative white guy who is privileged to spend the majority of my life away from home living in a truck carrying my own weight. Very draining. The best moments though are meeting good people of all colors and walks of life who just see and treat you like you treat them and share genuine smiles and friendly conversation without out all the bull shit regardless how different we may be. Your videos consistently demonstrate how much common folks do have in common regardless of how much rabble rousers want us to believe otherwise. Good stuff, keep it coming.

[@JamWithJamieee]

Love this so much

[@ProdbyGrimeyred]

Same driver

[@kathik]

Amen ❤

[@freedomworks3976]

Same here driver ❤

[@TreysMythsandTunes]

Like, the ONENESS is NOT just a "lofty Ras Tafarian philosophy in a Bob Marley song." It is the REALITY within REAL PEOPLE! 😇

[@ziplin5412]

As a german from Berlin, i appreciate Tommie voicing out what needs to be communicated. Here in Berlin we have very similiar problems in our neighbourhoods. We call them "Brennpunkte". Lots immigrants, low educated, unemployed people live in the former french and communist districts. The people living there have no idea what options and freedom they got regarding education. Unlike in the US you get full financial benefits in germany to get your highschool or university degree. We lack communication to bring these kids to seek education instead of crime.

[@unknownkingdom]

Ridiculousn and hateful comment

[@rameshpratap20]

High School is free and most low to mid income students across the country gets financial aid. Example, in NY state all students with incomes less than US$125,000 pays no tuition for all State/City Universities and college. If you make more than US$125,000 then it is about $6000 and change which is very affordable. There are tax deductions for education expense also. Many states have similar options. Also, States like Mississippi have very low tax rates.

[@Jupiter862]

This is why I really liked Tommy’s comment about the need to “activate” the child - to show them with a real person in their life what they could become. If they don’t get excited about bettering themselves they’re very unlikely to do it.

[@laraoneal7284]

The TRADES are so important and vital to our infrastructure. I so respect men going into the trades.

[@weaversolveig]

And women! More women going into the trades!

[@GLo1991]

There are so many trades too, I wanted to work outside in nature, I became a certified arborist. Most people have no clue what I actually do

[@benallmark9671]

Me too but unfortunately those willing to put in the time & effort to accomplish it are few & far between. They feel entitled and feel they are owed something and want it now !

[@madmikemackas]

He’s right. Everyone defines success differently. What he said made a lot of sense. Some people don’t need all the fancy stuff and they are just happy in the environment they live in, they’re “at peace”. That’s the best way of describing success for me. Being at peace.

[@arlenemaxwellcopeland1644]

Amen. I used to ask incoming students their goals. Many said in 5 years, the long goal, they wanted to be happy with a family. Continue working in the factory! What? that's it? YES, they said, "what more is there than to be happy, be able to pay bills...?" They taught me a lesson.

[@maximilianu.n.o.2733]

for sure

[@1.crazy.redhead]

He is right, I had a marriage with money, but lived a miserable life full of manipulation and emotional abuse. I divorced, and yes I live ALOT poorer, but the PEACE I have is 2nd to none.

[@Claire-zg2di]

Damn this hit home! I grew up in the worst part of my city in the 90's and I feel so blessed that my community came together whether it was to punish or congratulate our youth

[@Jrt91]

@@mubashirkhan9566 safer than Pakistan

[@sunny74763]

@@Jrt91that's for sure

[@DMWBN3]

@@Jrt91doubt it, Pakistan looks friendlier to outsiders than some hoods in America. You even ever been outside of USA?

[@hangonsapto2338]

​@@Jrt91 Even Afghanistan today are more save than Jackson, u.s.a! What you mumbling about!?!!

[@johnnygood1982]

What I learned from this video is that Americans need to step up as a whole village to help and love one another. Not point the finger at each other and blame this and that! We are all interconnected in a free market society where we all should prosper! If you see a neighbor in need...give them a hand up..not a hand out. Peter is doing big things here by sheding light on all good people here on this planet and simultaneously bringing people together! Keep up the good work, everyone!

[@scotthalvorson1161]

Yepp our broken two party system keeps us socially and racially divided while the rich run out the back door with all our tax money

[@LaurieTafoya]

The older man at the garden area… he’s WISE! We need more of HIM!

[@conmentary]

Tommie is spot on, hope he succeeds in everything he's pursuing with the younger generations

[@ummyusuf8817]

This is what i am teaching my 2 sons who live at home, to be the best men they can be and not like there dads.

[@Searchd4U]

This might sound silly but I loved how he put on a sport coat / jacket prior to going into the university. So respectful and classy!

[@Pediwell]

Not silly at all!!! I thought I was the only one who noticed it. Thank you for bringing it up.

[@divinereference]

I thought the same too! So impressive!

[@woozie___]

he's just playing the part, that's the only thing he knows how to do

[@MrElephantshell]

That discussion about the 15 year old robbing an old lady in regards to the law hits directly at a core problem with the juvenile justice system. Tommie has the EXACT mentality that the juvenile justice system is supposed to have. It was built with rehabilitation in mind, but in practice it's more about punishment. Sadly, it should take into consideration everything that Tommie laid out, but a lot of the time it doesn't....

[@KingCamilloSnufkin]

You can really feel the special pain tommie feels for his community, when he talks about survival mode and his hustling parents. Much respect.

[@mernkanthri3941]

Rich will become richer. We all gonna loose our job. Lets revoult against AI. Its unethical and we dont want to be cyborg.

[@mamabear5289]

As a first generation college student from the inner city hood I approve this video ! I made it out!! Then taught in a community like the one I grew up in and now I’m a wife and mom of two teenagers! Homeschooling my youngest!

[@Mr.Pojangle]

As a southerner from a small town, I say thank you. These are my people and I am theirs. All we need is each other and love and compassion. Governments cannot “fix” despair. It is up to us to lift each other up.

[@graemebiggs7829]

I am in New Zealand and we love watching your channel. It provides a dimension of reality to ordinary American folk that we simply do not see here, mainly because our media relies heavily on what comes out of the US, and that is either hugely biased depending on the sources, and the content is driven by power, politics and profit. So we only see the "newsworthy" stories: politics, extremism, mass shootings, or severe weather events. Nothing about the ordinary folk going about their daily lives, their hardships, their amazing compassion and generosity, their values. As a result, most countries outside the USA have a very jaundiced view of your amazing country. Keep up the great work you are doing!

[@KimtheElder]

As an American, I rarely watch our own news sources for the very same reason. I am beyond grateful for Peter.

[@critterIMHO]

It takes a village to raise a child, but what if the village is corrupt? Wow…You always find the best people to talk to and that makes these the best exposes on America ever.

[@PiratesHatRockin]

“you out there thinking you got friends, you go to jail and you’ll see how many friends you got” 💯OG

[@TreysMythsandTunes]

Maybe Peter and Neil should consider making that line a KZbin SHORT - it is so classic.

[@dennisp3314]

Absolutely !

[@stevendrake477]

Mentoring someone really can go a long way. 10 years ago i joined the Army. I flew out of Chicago with someone that no one thought would make it. He was to a t the definition of a thug. That man has changed his life so much. He started as a cook,He ended up becoming a E-6, a leader, and mentor for his soldiers, and went to a more combat focused job. Now hes a warrant officer, and a helicopter pilot. Weve talked. He doesnt think he would be alive now if he stayed on the path he was going down before the Army. Its inspirational.

[@glenr-oe]

This was a legit episode. For those that believe in generational curses, it rings true for people that live and have lived in the hood. It takes one to show another the way out. That same one could develop a mindset of breaking the trauma they’ve been exposed to their entire lives.

[@41A2E]

What is so unique about your videos, Peter, is the POV switch. Sure, you're the "host" of the channel, but what is really special is that really YOU play the guest and the folks you talk to are the guide/host; and I've gotta say, this is one of the best guides you've ever had. A man full of wisdom, and more importantly, love. He has clearly spent a lot of time thinking about the situations he and his peers and his heirs grew up in, and has the compassion to actually strive to make a difference. Thank you for this one! It's a world I know nothing about, having grown up in suburban South Dakota. Some of his ideas sounded strange at first, but I quickly warmed up and have a new perspective.

[@zariballard]

Yes he does switch the POV on the tour. It's very cool.

[@TreysMythsandTunes]

I fully agree. This has to be Peter's MOST IMPORTANT video, ever. Second, I.M.H.O. would be the Lakota Shaman with 9 kids. So few of us on this heavily censored and corporatized platform speaking the truth - get any audience. And while Mr. Santanello says I am "not into politics;" (or like me, openly espouses real spirituality,) he brings up the TRUTH (cleverly,) and speaks and asks questions that can expand or evolve your perception while not tripping the censors! (His Libra balance;) + as you've said, lets the person he is interviewing be our host, when they're driving the car, it amplifies this, reiterating: We are ALL in the HUMAN FAMILY!

[@ThatTaRaGiRL]

Love this❤

[@thadvuagniaux5812]

A true artist!

[@jeremyaltom1303]

You are hands down best journalist 💯❤️

[@EphemeralProductions]

He don’t think of himself as a journalist but really, he is. :). In the true definition of the word!

[@samporter2634]

His videos are awesome!!!

[@whitestone4401]

Present and involved parents are a must. I was around some of the worst kids, yet, my mom and dad's voices were the loudest in my head. I thank God for that.

[@jenarmstrong118]

Amen! We need more people like this fighting for our youth. He's right on everything!

[@Flyingrenaissance]

There’s a “Tommy” in a lot of similar communities. We have to support our “Tommy”! GOD bless the peacemakers.

[@EphemeralProductions]

That older black guy was really insightful and asked some VERY legitimate and good questions.

[@LaurieTafoya]

He’s legit!

[@MrThejboe3oh5]

And most young kids or teens will push him, call him a bum or crackhead and they won't listen to him because he isn't flashy.They go "you are living on the street , you can't teach us anything" which is messed up and completely wrong..Kids today say the same to teachers"You drive a shit car, you can't teach me anything " or along those lines.

[@EphemeralProductions]

@@MrThejboe3oh5 😦😞😞

[@MrThejboe3oh5]

@@EphemeralProductions Sucks. Growing up, I had a lot of homeless people in my neighborhood, and it wasn't a bad neighborhood, just an unincorporated area to both neighboring counties. People didn't mistreat them,m and everyone knew each other by name. I got math help from a homeless man who helped work on the Hoover Dam, just lost it, gave everything to his wife and kids, hit the road, and drank his way into being homeless, but it's what he wanted. The guy knew history, could spell and define anything you needed help understanding, could do fractions, long division, etc., etc. in his head, and I knew a man who worked for NASA and was brilliant; they both had mental health issues and seemed to come from stress even after success-needed some work done? Another homeless man was an electrician, another a chef, and both did excellent jobs; they were only reliable because they lived in the neighborhood, or else they didn't want any responsibility and left behind a family. They weren't like today; they'd stay out of the way, wouldn't sleep in public spaces, and didn't beg for anything and just wanted to help, something to eat and a few dollars for working to be left alone and to drink. The point is these people were smart, just maybe not falling into societal norms. So, I have a different view of people experiencing homelessness, and clearly not all people are the same.

[@TheJofrica]

His name is Jesse

[@cherylkitchen]

I grew up incredibly poor in Appalachia. I never knew anyone who went to college. It was an exception to graduate high school. I never, NEVER considered taking something that didn't belong to me. I have a college degree. I always did well in school because my parents required it. My dad was the town drunk and abusive and my mom had cancer when I was young and survived only a few years. I grew up with nothing and no realization that I could be anything outside the "holler" in West Virginia. I don't want the village raising my kids. I used to believe in that saying, but the village will confuse your kid because of the inconsistencies. My mom did not let me run in the neighborhood until I was fairly grown. She always knew where I was and who I was with. Today, you correct a neighborhood kid and their parent is going to be in your face.

[@TreysMythsandTunes]

All true. Also, Hillary Clinton was going around popularizing that concept, and any real (fearless) researchers of the Clintons would learn, (perhaps) how they have EXEMPLIFIED why that is a bad idea - and WHY she could not be president!!! PEACE.

[@ziplin5412]

Respect!

[@francesfriesel6477]

Been there, scared the hell out of me!

[@violetsrayreikishop2]

When it comes to African Americans village mentality has been the way until that got interrupted

[@Cheik225]

that's what he is saying, it takes a village to raise a child but what if the village is corrupt ? so we got to fix that, we got to fix our village for our kids and four ourselves and that takes the whole of us because if we sit in our corner and ignore everybody else someday or another its gonna come back and bite us back. It's because we go out to live that we got the fix the place where we live at, we can't stay secluded and expect change because someday something or somebody is gonna go awry and it we'll be complicated to go back a good place

[@kuzcopluscleo]

Thank you for coming to Jackson and shedding some light on our beautiful city!

[@jelanifoster9315]

Im from Mississippi. My sister graduated from Tougaloo College. My family own Collins funeral home, one location on Ferrish Street. There is so much culture and humbleness in Mississippi. It is rich in love & wisdom but broke af economically. I left Mississippi and traveled the country. There is no place like Mississippi.

[@nicklrrueckert]

One of the few KZbinrs who gives you this perspective on life and the world. Can’t even describe what he’s doing opening up everyone’s eyes to the world around us.

[@mycb1993]

So very true❤ He has influenced me and I’m old enough to be his granny🤣.He is very insightful and yet easy with his words. I know so many “Tommies” but we could use a lot more!

[@user-ch4ex3yy4l]

I'm so glad I found this channel. I share vid's too.

[@Ruth-xr2dz]

In this day and age, you can’t chastise other people’s children because you will be in trouble from the parent. I attended one of my teachers retirement party. He told me back when you were a kid, if you got in trouble at school you got in trouble at home. He said now, if you get in trouble at school, one of the parents was in his face threatening to beat him up and sue the school district. He said he had to retire because it wasn’t enjoyable anymore with the dramatic changes in the homes and parenting.

[@JPAX.]

Yep. One of my neighbor’s young sons rode his bike in front of my house, saying hateful things to my son while we were outside. Just minding our own business. After several insults, I finally approached the boy and very kindly asked him to stop being mean and just leave my son alone. He lied to my face and said he never did that even though I was sitting right there on my porch the entire time he was doing it. I told him that I heard him doing it. He went home, told his mom and grandfather who knows what, and within a few minutes, I had two crazy adults walk up to me and start harassing me. How dare I say ANYTHING to their child, about ANYTHING he was doing. It was insane! But I don’t care, I will always defend my child and my property from jerks.

[@seppyq3672]

Yeah, my dad retired almost 20 years ago, and even then, it started to switch.

[@sharonwolfe9442]

The problem is there are a lot of teachers who will lie about a situation. When I had to go in to talk to the teachers I always took my child with me so neither one could lie and I could get the true story , and punish the child accordingly if need be. But I do not agree with anyone else laying a hand on my child

[@johnderoy916]

When I was in a small town HS I got in pretty big trouble one day ... in my favorite teacher's class - which made me sad for disappointing her ... then down to the vice principals office ... for a licking with the paddle but before he did that he called my dad at work right in front of me ... then at the end of the day I was punished again in athletics - got a licking with the paddle for making the team look bad, then had to run "until I get t tired of watching you" as the coach said - who also happened to be the vice principal - then i still had to go home and get in trouble with my dad for making the school call him at work to tell him about the horrible thing I had done and for embarrassing my family - man, i tell you what it makes you stop and think the next time about is what you are about to do worth what will happen to you as punishment - which is really the point of being punished in the first place

[@Ruth-xr2dz]

@@sharonwolfe9442 It’s sad to think about so many teachers doing so much lying. From my observation growing up in the 70’s and 80’s, I cannot say that was an issue. Normally the kids getting in trouble were usually the ones everyone knew were trouble makers/rule benders. As a rule, parents have a tremendous amount of influence on children if they would only use that influence for good and provide a good example. Both my sister and cousin have taught in the school system for 35 years. They say the changes in families is scary. (Same thing does apply to the teachers.) I agree, as parents we should advocate for our children.

[@jjody4267]

I agree somewhat on community involvement with children, I grew up with that and it worked but it’s not the only way. I raised a child from kindergarten on as a single mother. The first thing I did was find a safe place to live. To pay for that, worked my first job 6-7 days a week and my second job 4-5 days a weeks but I could take my child with me. I knew who she was with at all times and for years, she didn’t go places without me unless it was to family or to best friends. Here was my day: Got up at 5am, made breakfast, drove child to school, went to work, picked up child, cooked dinner, went to second job, back home, homework, put child to bed, housework, laundry, prep for following day, bed around 11:00-12:00. I took one break during my day for 30 minutes to eat dinner with my child. Weekends were 2nd work, birthday parties, sporting events, etc. Any socializing I did was with parents of people who had kids the same age. You have to sacrifice self for children to do it, but it can be done. My child was a straight A student all through school and never got in trouble one time. Someone needs to show single parents the way.

[@sisstarshine1279]

One of the biggest issues in our society is that most "adults" still behave as "Children". "When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I did childish things, but when I became a man, I put a way those chidish things." There has been a break in the cycles, training, and discipline of growing up. I worked with youth for many years, and all of them wanted and needed to see adults being Adults and Adulting. When parents, family members, teachers, and community members/leaders still induldge and condone childish behavior and exhibit a lack of discipline, the youth are disappointed and seek to fill this void however they will.

[@charleneneisler7596]

The Bible gives us the blueprint for success. It’s only when society turns their back on God that what we now have exists. We are in the LAST days. Accept Jesus today!

[@Ezrasghost]

Praise the Lord brother!

[@PMMagro]

Very true.

[@iarise992]

Such true words. Absolutely agree 💯

[@boundariessetinstone5893]

Yup kids crave guidance I did I gave my child the mom I never had.

[@pabulumm]

That analogy of needing to activate a debit card before you can access the money was so good! This video really kept me engaged.

[@samporter2634]

Videos is engaging!!!

[@renfairegoddess]

​@kiwe3546 do you just want to complain under each person's comment, or do you have any suggestions for improvement (that don't include your political/racist views on immigrants)?

[@johnparkhurst825]

That analogy is so wrong. It's not a issue of how a debit card works it's a MORAL issue. Thou shalt not steal.

[@thomasbeng9016]

​@@johnparkhurst825 this! They were talking about the amount of loot instead of talking about the victim. Black mentality I guess

[@renfairegoddess]

@kiwe3546 Good job! I AM complaining about you. You ARE complaining about immigrants. Take a good look at your comments and rethink your DARVO. Maybe even ask a friend to read ALL of them. You might accept the reality of your actions better from them than from me.

[@vickypatout5361]

So, so great Peter! As a member from south Louisiana I am really enjoying this journey into the deep south. Thank you for these great messages of hope❤

[@dannyriot50]

I’m from south LA too.. wish he would do a video of Buras and Venice after Katrina. Where u from?

[@vickypatout5361]

@dannyriot50 New Iberia but I just moved to Lafayette. Hi neighbor 👋

[@ashtonsuire]

Born and raised in morgan city, can't wait for some South LA content

[@vickypatout5361]

@@ashtonsuire I have relatives there, my Andrews cousins.

[@TreysMythsandTunes]

I know. I just spent 20 years in Santa Cruz, California and I am visiting my blood kins here in Charleston, S.C. Even after getting my ass kicked several times when I first got there, and getting robbed clean at the end, I would NEVER allow the dark ones to strip me of the RESPECTFUL side of my "Southern Values." It is GREAT Peter is showing - the millions - these IMPORTANT traits - of LOVE, RESPECT, HOSPITALITY, FRIENDLINESS, EQUINIMITY and even ANTIRACISM - which will NEVER leave the REAL humans!

[@perrytaylor7849]

Peter is great. He’s sympathetic, he’s an active listener, and he challenges what he hears with respect and understanding. This guy needs a bigger platform.

[@questioneverything3632]

What a Great Man Tommie is! So wonderful to see people like him helping our youth succeed! Wonderful story! 🥰

[@TheJofrica]

Agreed. I feel like he needs help. I feel like he needs own village to help him accomplish what he wants to do with the community.

[@mysticwolf007]

Just woke up, coffee in hand and a new video from Peter just dropped..day is off to a good start :)

[@patland1762]

Seperating from friends like Tommie said can be key. I was at 17 years scoring kilos of weed and other drugs and selling them pretty quick in smaller quantity at High School during the day. All my friends were dopers and worse. One day I just looked around while hanging with these guys and saw where that path was going to take me and I just walked away from evry friend I had. If I hadn't done that my life would have been so much different than it has been the 50 years since that day.

[@jimv77]

50 years ago, being 1974 high school had a weed/drug problem? I know hippies and weed was a thing, but I'd figure kids were less wild back then. 46 years old here.

[@richardmorris7063]

Graduated in 75 so I can relate.. But it took me about 45 yrs to finally see the light. So many of my friends have passed in the last two yrs I guess I got lucky..

[@deeceestewart4103]

I'm genuinely happy to see you saw life differently and changed your future life like that.

[@deeceestewart4103]

I love Tommies optimism and I wish him all of the success. I agree that Jackson has beautiful things and places. And there are beautiful people. Equally so, there are rapists, thieves, gangsters,car jackers,drug addicts and dealers,shootings,killings, kkk and also corruption at every level that makes it nearly impossible to live there. About 20 years ago when the city govt changed ...they called it white flight...when people fled the city...however, I spoke with many people... and thousands of people fled the city, leaving their homes behind over what I understood as the new govt not running the city right and the financial losses that would ensue.They moved into Madison and Rankin Counties and built up entirely new and enlarged cities. Follow that with Frank Melton and his aggressive anti-drug tactics. I heard that drove the corruption, drug dealers out of Jackson in a big way and when they left to go somewhere else they took the money with them and the city really collapsed. Jackson is a shadow of what it used to be. If Tommie can revitalize and uplift Jackson, that would be wonderful. I shudder to think, however, of the nice innocent people coming there and being robbed and/or car-jacked...or worse. I have new neighbors. They were speaking of places they'd worked and lived at. When they mentioned Jackson their voices changed in a downward way and said Jackson is rough. And shook their heads. The condition of the destroyed parts of Jackson are indicative of the terrorism and drugs that crumbled that city. Decent folks that were working had their homes robbed and cars and lawn mowers and everything else that wasn't nailed down stolen while they were at work. There's a saying that they took everything that wasn't nailed down. But these thieves even took mantles out of houses. Hurricane Katrina came through the state and changed many things too. I would truly like to see changes. It does start with the youth and giving them hope and building a new train of thought. Many people in Jackson were not criminals. They were hard working people. Unable to leave their houses because of the threat of doing so. The kids had to go to school under those conditions. It was atrocious. I was broken in on and had a gun put to my head. One time I was almost car-jacked.. I got away. And I was raped. No thank you. Today I live in peace where everyone is friendly and looks out for each other...I don't even have to lock my door...but thanks to Jackson I always do. I live with PTSD every day of my life now. I enjoy the wonderful birds and fish and feel safer surrounded by bears, mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, alligators and snakes than the manhunter monsters in Jackson.

[@78town]

“You can’t be scared of the people you serve” You can tell Tommy is a believer. The convos between you 2 I feel like is the conversation we need today.

[@lyleswavel320]

Theirs people making $500,000 a year and embezzling millions from a company to get rich, and theirs people making $300 a week and not stealing at all, it's each person's choice to be honest, the love of money is the root of all evil

[@richardmorris7063]

WORD

[@cbatcba]

Theirs?? WTF is that?

[@JimDuggan-tq2lv]

Grammar filth on patrol

[@Scxoop123]

I agree with the caviot that sometimes people in desperate situations due to poverty do desperate irrational things. The risk of being caught and facing consequences and understand said repercussions isn't greater than the reward of getting said spoil. Most people stealing don't have money in their pocket. If you ever been hungry with no money suddenly stealing from Walmart is not only ok but necessary

[@jamesavakian4977]

​@@cbatcbaits an error

[@elll3s]

Peter, you're absolutely right about fatherless children. The lack of father figures in the black communities is one of the biggest problems.

[@JacquelineLeubin]

Why is it higher in the black community?

[@aidanw9378]

@@JacquelineLeubin Culture. It's a cycle. If your dad left your mom, you're more likely to leave your pregnant girlfriend. There's a pervading culture of anti-responsibility in Black America. It's really sad, and knowing that if young, Black men stepped up and collectively took their responsibilities seriously, Black America would absolutely flourish. But that's just not the case.

[@elll3s]

@@aidanw9378 Absolutely!

[@elll3s]

@JacquelineLeubin I would also add to Adriamw's comments. Things got really bad for Black people when black women joined the women's movement. They feed into the notion that they didn't need men, and to make things worse, the government would supplement their incomes (welfare) if no father was in the home. Also, throw in the self-sabatoging and disastrous music that blacks have been producing/consuming (essentially brainwashing themselves to commit self-harm). 😫it's actually sad

[@TiffanyMorrison-bs7im]

@@aidanw9378 It's always white people talking on black issues with no understanding. I bet you, you don't have single black friend and never hung out with black man ever. Before 1960 there was more black Americans married then white Americans. There's a pervading racist culture in white America that destroy the black community. The way the war on drug was treated on black families compared to how opioid epidemic was treated for white families. Also integration with white Americas was a terrible idea. The distancing from white America would absolutely make the black community flourish again.

[@karenowens4504]

I lived in MS for three years and what I liked about the schools was the attitude they instilled in the air that higher education was the goal. When I moved back to Atlanta, my son entered into high school and several of his credits from MS middle school counted as high school credits and yes, he graduated from college, Georgia State with two degrees.

[@tylerwightman2315]

I moved to the Jackson metro area 6 years ago with my wife and kids for a job offer I couldn't turn down. I spent 15 years of my life in Phoenix and another 15 years in Salt Lake City before moving here. Between the 3 places, Mississippi is by far my favorite no questions and the opportunity is definitely here if your willing to work for it. I've met many folks like Tommy and its always touching to hear stories like his of the struggles they've been through and the things they've done to power though said struggles to find success. Yall be blessed. Cheers from Brandon Mississippi!

[@ivandemko3360]

My favorite channel on KZbin. Lived in Ukraine for 20 months. Seeing this now. Just makes you appreciate life. Understand how people are so different. But come together at the same time. We just need to come together as people. Have understanding of each other. God bless ✌️

[@ivandemko3360]

@@k1_w3 I think coming together. Brings much more understanding. Why do humans “naturally segregate”? If you’ve ever been to London or Paris. Nobody ever talks about race. As much as they do in America. In London you’re British. In USA you’re either African American or black. These people are Americans just like anybody else.

[@bookinsights1092]

This come together bs is all nonsense. Most people prefer the company of people who look, speak and behave like them.

[@ivandemko3360]

@@bookinsights1092 you can prefer any bodies company at anytime. But it doesn’t you have to be closed off. Be afraid of each other. Even look at this video. It’s perfect example of it.

[@bookinsights1092]

@@ivandemko3360 On a 1 on 1 basis every interaction is fine. There are plenty of people who self-segregate because they want to be with their own ethnic/racial/religious community. Human nature is tribal.

[@ivandemko3360]

@@bookinsights1092 you are also right. We do tend to go with our own.

[@eddieh9214]

I can not express how fortunate we all are to have you be our guide into our America. Thanks for finding all the Tommys of this world.

[@theintellect5004]

This brother's spirit is a gift and its What the Jackson Community needs to be turned around. Prayers on his journey and for some support.

[@D33Lux]

The world needs a mentor like Tommy in their community, someone with positive message of there's no expire date for success. I wish Tommy success and hopefully his book can be turned into a movie.

[@Ruth-xr2dz]

I think about my mom growing up dirt poor in the south and my dad growing up dirt poor in the north. My grandparents never had indoor plumbing and that really wasn’t a thing where they were from during that time period. Both sets of grandparents and parents worked so hard to feed and shelter everyone. Instead of stealing, they shared whatever they had with everyone around them. Stealing is often a mindset of I deserve it because you have more than me. The number of organizations that provide food, clothing , shelter, school supplies, laundry soap, furniture, household goods, free childcare, camp scholarships, etc. is endless in this country. I have volunteered with several. I remember a young man sitting outside of a homeless shelter that did incredible work in the community. He was complaining that they wouldn’t help him. One of the long-time volunteers who knew him well said he had been helped many times but wouldn’t follow any of the rules. He wanted what he wanted. Some people just can’t be helped because they aren’t willing to do the work.

[@6cansshort]

Amen.

[@Obelix5658]

You said it.

[@simulatedentropy5768]

Bingo

[@keirafritzen4686]

💯

[@divinelay333]

This video came to me at just the right time in my life. I’m 22 years old, still figuring out the ins and outs of what to do. Thank you Peter and Tommie for shining a light on the endless possibilities that us as humans can achieve. It was like a personalized message just for me, this whole entire video. “Do the right thing.” “Work for it.” “You have to want it.” Thank you for opening up not only my eyes, but to anyone else who views this, to the idea that you can get by. Struggles will come, but you have the power to overcome anything.

[@Erika-up6iq]

You can do it Alayna! Stay focused and you'll do wonderful. ❤️❤️

[@Shiftheads]

You're still a baby. All you have to do is try 💯

[@T.S.T2014]

Peter if a quarter of investigative reporters did the job like you do the world would have to be a better understanding place.

[@UKhomestead]

We grew up poor, like dirt poor! We didn't have a sofa, we sat on crates. Thankfully my dad was a fisherman and he brought home our food and sold what he could at the quay so we could get bread and potatoes etc. Ive never stolen/robbed so that is an excuse for me a diabolical one. Accountability is a massive issue for 99% of people born from 00s onward imo.

[@appliancedude63]

Problem is that most of those kids are coming from single mother homes.

[@japan1001ify]

Exactly.

[@aliciagarner2005]

It's all an excuse! And it is everywhere, not just in the hood! Everywhere!!! We can't expect other people to do for us,we have to do for ourselves!! Robing and hurting people is only making things worse for everyone! WORK HARD AND SAY NO TO DRUGS!

[@justabreeze460]

When they were born has nothing to do with it😂 Adults have a history throughout centuries for not taking accountability. You’re apart of a repetitive issue of adults blaming the youth, who at the same time refuse to see they were once them. It’s a never ending cycle💯

[@bs431980]

100% excuses . It’s same ol story. It’s not crime it’s poverty, it’s not a riot it’s an expression. GTFOH with that crap. Accountability has been missing for generations in these communities.

[@heathwellsNZ]

Wow, I don't live in the US... but here in my city in New Zealand halfway around the world... the issues/questions/discussion raised in this episode translate to our current social issues too. Honesty, the content here is some of the very best KZbin has to offer. Thanks Peter for doing what you and not being afraid to tackle the real issues facing communities everywhere!

[@kathykeene2092]

I agree 100%

[@22azizmo]

Thank you for this video! I am a high school teacher in Baltimore. This professional conversation about education is full of information and I am paying attention to every single word mentioned here. This is a rich and productive conversation about protecting and educating our children. Thank you so very much for doing this. This video should be played in National TV and in every school in America.

[@Ruth-xr2dz]

Wow! Well said! I think about my mom growing up dirt poor in the south and my dad growing up dirt poor in the north. My grandparents never had indoor plumbing and that really wasn’t a thing where they lived. Both sets of grandparents and parents worked so hard to shelter and feed everyone. Instead of stealing, they always shared whatever they had with others. Stealing is often a mindset of I deserve it because you have more than me. The number of organizations that will provide food, clothing, shelter, school supplies, furniture, household goods, camp scholarships, etc. is endless in this country. I have volunteered with several. I remember a young man sitting outside of a homeless shelter that did incredible work in the community. He was complaining that they wouldn’t help him. One of the long-time volunteers who knew him well said he had been helped many times but wouldn’t follow any rules and wanted what he wanted. Some people just can’t be helped because they aren’t willing to do the work.

[@abelreyna8781]

He said that missing fathers are a problem, but not the whole problem. I would say it's the main problem. The men he is talking about confronting the bad behavior should be those young men's dads period.

[@rodneylewis4402]

That presumes that those dads aren't a problem themselves. It's more important to have good father figures present. My girlfriend has two sons, their fathers are not in the picture...both seem good on paper (hard workers, well-paying jobs, etc) but they're sh*tty dudes, pretty sure both are narcissists. She made a point of raising them around her father and other good male role models. Even though their fathers aren't around, you can see elements of their personalities that clearly passed through the DNA. They wrote me a note last Fathers' Day thanking me for sticking around & being a decent man unlike their fathers & showing them how to conduct themselves...yes, I was in tears. I was raised in a middle class family with both parents in a neighborhood full of the same, and everybody turned out differently...a few dudes on drugs (some have died, one would steal stuff from us if he came to visit), some married, some single, some divorced (like me), some went to the military, some went to work, some went to college, some would screw anything with a pulse, some have a low 'body count' and are faithful, etc. I can tell you that most of the changes occurred, for those who changed (some were just not right from birth & you knew they'd be problematic adults), when we left the confines of our little sheltered neighborhood, particularly during the high school years. I personally always had a strong sense of right & wrong (yes, I did stupid & mischievous things plus I have ADHD & was very impulsive), on top of that my father was in politics & knew darn near everyone so if I even spit on the sidewalk on the other side of town, he knew about it, but for most of my childhood, my mother was 'the enforcer'. It's a cocktail...nature, nurture, outside influences, circumstances.

[@sambayanzai]

Yes I agree. Missing fathers is the main root cause of what’s happening with our youth

[@catholiccrusader5328]

Peter you are awesome. I don't know where or how to praise your videos for being so positive. All I can say is THANK YOU for sharing your ministry with us. GOD loves you and so do we. Much love from Chicago.

[@darrensworkshop6783]

That gentleman summed up the problem worldwide right there....Young people need mentors who are adult enough to point to the right direction for these young lives...Thank you my friend for highlighting the issue...I live in the UK and the same is true here..! This is why I came out of retirement to mentor young people.

[@ItsMeNanaD71]

This dialect is what we need much more of. We gotta get back to teaching kids respect & discipline. My neighbors had no problems keeping all us kids in line & honestly it was great. We knew what was okay & what we couldn’t get away with & we always felt safe running the neighborhoods. Back in the 1970s & 1980s kids actually played with each other outdoors. It was a fabulous childhood from a societal standpoint.

[@radiumrickshaw9920]

Dialect?

[@jamesgunnyreed]

@@radiumrickshaw9920 Im guessing dialogue was intended.

[@I_the_YouTube_user]

Thanks Pete for mentioning my Bangladesh. I am doing PhD in the US. Until 2 years ago, my (parents) house would drench in the rain coz the we couldn’t change the tin roof. Poverty is no excuse, govt. is no excuse. Govt doesn’t do shit for us. Most people would never rob even if go hungry (most people not all). Crime has no excuse.

[@cairobeach]

yea but in bangladesh there are child prostitutes..poor familes sell their kids all day. there are orphans everywhere in SE ASIA who are used..and its in the Culture so pipe down PHD..

[@JuniorLexus6692]

Exactly, poverty is no excuse. It's a culture and mindset issue.

[@edmorse]

When you walk the streets of some of the toughest neighborhoods, you show the world the real people that see life not always so different than everywhere else. So many people that want more. That want to do it right. They recognize the pitfalls. Very heartwarming. I wish more journalism was like what you do.

[@KonTikiBea]

MY Father drilled into my head that when I leave our house I was representing OUR family. And other will judge our family on my actions. Heavy stuff, I also grew up in a town that everyone knew you and who your parents were and all eyes were on us kids all the time, if you stepped out of line there would be a phone would ring or a knock on the door and a teacher, or neighbor or another parent would rat you out in a heartbeat. ~

[@kathik]

Oh ya! I hated it back in the day but now, I realize how great that was. Thank you for sharing a flashback. 👍

[@K.Fulkerson]

“Everything is impossible, until somebody does it.”

[@Psychiatricnerd]

I love how tommie says that everyone defines success differently. So much truth to that.

[@kathykeene2092]

Yes, me too. I love how they talked about the trades and mentioned the success of the Barber.

[@jackjackson4412]

Thanks for showing Jackson in a balanced way instead of what is typically shown.

[@Michael-nj1um]

Tommie and Peter are a blessing!! These men are making the world a better place!! Thank you gentlemen!! :)

[@diazlauray]

Peter, you were spot on when you were talking about one of the key things that young boys need is a strong father figure that offers direction and discipline. I 100% agree with you. I grew up with a neglectful, alcoholic father with his own trauma and unfortunately that didn't fare well with my brother who sought out other male figures in our neighborhood ravished by poverty, few resources for the youth and gang activity.

[@kennethwilliams7697]

Peter, once again you have nailed it! You have captured the essence of the "hood." which means so much more that what people know or are led to believe. Tommie was right on some things and wrong on others. It's the parents responsibility to raise their children, yet most Black families are headed by women, (over 70%). Men are missing from the family unit and that's one main reason why so many young Blacks have gone astray. That's not an excuse that's a fact of life. But what a wonderful vlog indeed!

[@meettheworld6241]

It's pretty cool to watch a video and recognize every street... born and raised in Jackson, I LOVE central Mississippi!

[@BethSmith-ep9vm]

43:22 “The barrier is not trying.” That is gold in advice right there. So true.

[@andresvaldes2491]

Much respect to Tommie. And Thank you Peter for introducing us to so many amazing people. I never thought I would see art deco in Jackson. And the people are so friendly.

[@alchemydp]

Tommy, you are a true gem. Thanks for your positivity and inspiration. We all need these stories! Peter, great work as always.

[@ecoasis1]

Aaaaaamen! yes he is...Thanks to Peter also!

[@hollygolightly7475]

He was so passionate about his community and a proud guy👏👏👏 enjoyed it

[@genageeraert8039]

Tommy has such an amazing way to phrase things.

[@maraclark9817]

California native that lived and worked in Jackson, MS for 5 years. It has a huge piece of my heart and I hope to return one day. There is so much good in Jackson and the state as a whole. Tommie explained it well, the progress is all mental. I audited for state, so I traveled all over. It was very present that generation follows after generation, the more education and encouragement young Mississippians get I have no doubt will be a huge help to them.

[@traeucity6087]

I loved the thought provoking conversations and I enjoyed seeing Jackson featured; even though some of the images and realities were heartbreaking. My entire family came from Mississippi, and Jackson is my father's hometown. My grandmother was a successful businesswoman, my late uncle was the Director of Tougaloo College and my father was a world class track athlete at Jackson State University. Thank you for your presentation.

[@bdaultana]

The positivity in this video is on another level. I love what you guys are doing. Both of you Peter and Tommy. America is a land of opportunity if you can find what you love.

[@Daniel-Aze]

Thank you Peter. Every video you post I learn a little of American culture.

[@darioxbrow9223]

As an Italian I really loved the strong sense of community I was able to feel while watching this video. Thank you Peter for bringing the positive aspects of the us

[@CLoZe14]

This inspires me to activate and support my younger sister get out the mud. Thank you to Peter, Tom and the Doc.

[@crazychicSHENA]

Growning up in The flats in Dublin Ireland my mom and Dad told us Girl's if you hurt innocent people Don't come home. Now you've made your Bed in Life and the area was riddled with drugs and crime we ' all made it out for the better 🥰😢

[@warrior1949]

I am watching this right now coming from India 🇮🇳, we have different community as all our family is involved in raising a child, getting them good education, and the part when he says it was the best time when he got shot in a leg, changed his mindset put me in tears, really grateful to see these videos and learn about American neighborhoods ❤❤

[@Runic7261]

🇮🇳 India let me educate you. We or our fouth father didn't ask 2 come here we was captured with chain on our feet and whip and killed and thrown back in the sea,by the time we made it 2 What u all call the Geat USA, we was put in a dark whole and was bid on my white men's, and we (our fouth father work from sun up til sun down so when u want 2 know more on how we the child or children and wife was left behind you let me know. The truth shall set you free. Our blk men's was and still been lied and accused and buse to this day.and our trib was the only one they tried but I bet they want do India like this.

[@johnpalacios5914]

Wow! Dr. Tommy is amazing. Most people would have left the area for a better job; but he didn’t forget where he came from and works to change it for the better. He’s a very inspiring person and the kind of person we need more of. Anybody can decide that it’s too hard to change things and just mind their own business, but it takes dedication to become that instrument of change. Thank you for sharing his story. It completely changed my view of Jackson.

[@John123130289]

I thought you might come to Jackson but I was not expecting the video to start on Whitfield St! My church reopened that pool and I did the "Splash City" graffiti mural that can be seen in the background (with church consent). We've been working hard to pour into the youth in midtown and it's been tough at times, but there are such amazing kids in that neighborhood. Seeing midtown so prominently featured and hearing Tommie's story was really affirming, and it gave me some much needed energy to keep with it with some of these kids. Thank you Peter. My pastor reached out to you - he has a great perspective of what it looks like to be that presence these kids needs. Idk if you're still in Jackson but it would add a lot in terms of what the effort looks like to talk to him.

[@PeterSantenello]

Keep up the awesome work! The neighborhood needs people like you. Unfortunately I've left but thank you.

[@bmcdonald7303]

Dang. These videos are gems. I appreciate this content. I am in agreement of needing a village in accountability of our children. It’s been a blessing to me and it’s helped my children know they can’t get away with mess.

[@CM-wf2uo]

Tommy I love your smile at the end of the video. So genuine and sincere! Congratulations on your success, and your books!

[@allisonjames3024]

I would enjoy having a conversation with you tommie. How did you think the interview went and the comments following.

[@allisonjames3024]

And surviving that interview and most of the comments to follow.

[@allisonjames3024]

I would like peter to do a show on the history of south central los angeles. I would like peter to push back against the racists on here. I've already had one comment removed. This country was built on slavery and torture. African Americans have suffered greatly more than anyone else, except for the indigenous population that was before. Shameful. This video made me want to fight all the harder as an activist.

[@lpe655]

I become paralyzed at 20. Best thing to ever happen to me. It changed my life for the better.

[@briancarroll6803]

What an incredible sentence to read.

[@darioxbrow9223]

Elaborate pls

[@benallmark9671]

I'm in the same boat and feel the same way.

[@lpe655]

I was headed down the wrong path, I become paralyzed, and it made me grow up.

[@Somberdemure]

Nah, I'm good. Lmao

[@stacypoma7853]

I have so much respect for Tommie. You have such a strong and important message!