Skinhead interview-Donny

Soft White Underbelly interview and portrait of Donny, a skinhead living on Skid Row.
For ad-free, uncensored videos and plenty of exclusive content please subscribe to the Soft White Underbelly subscription channel. It's $10 a month and watchable on Apple and Android mobile apps, Roku TV, Apple TV and Amazon Fire.
Here's how to purchase the Soft White Underbelly book & merchandise: softwhiteunderbelly.org.
#fentanylcrisis #softwhiteunderbelly #swu #skinhead #interview #documentary #mentalhealth #awareness #marklaita

[@EluxeM]

After watching many of these videos, it's 100% clear: everything starts and ends with the family. Broken and incompetent families are one of society's greatest evils. Congrats to this young man for being there for his son!

[@ther3]

I absolutely agree

[@blackliesmatter9135]

@Tarziu Armanado-Liviu come again.

[@NoneYa_30]

It's about love. The videographer guy (Mark I think?) has said it before. Love from family, from others, for yourself. It all starts with Love.

[@hollywooddc1708]

So obvious, Yet everyone wants to break the nuclear family now so they can get attn for being lgbtqblm xyz ....

[@josepgutierrez22]

Yup! Family is THE single strongest building block to society

[@HB-jm5ut]

When he stated that being in a wheelchair was a humbling experience, it really resonated with me. As someone who has been confined to a wheelchair/bed bound for a part of my life due to a negligent driver, people don't realize how not being able to walk changes your mentality and outlook on life. Be thankful you can stand and walk to the bathroom. Be thankful you can stand and make something to eat. Be thankful you can stand in the shower and relax instead of constantly worrying about falling. Be thankful you aren't ignored in public because you are handicapped. Be thankful random people don't come and ask what happened to you. I could go on and on and people really don't think about how lucky they are to stand on 2 feet and walk without constantly being in pain.

[@dontsubtome9195]

Amen my friend, I hope youre doing better. I have VHL (Von Hipple Lindau) Ive had 7 brain and 6 spine surgeries, ended up sustaining a spinal cord injury during one of my surgeries and I had to relearn to walk, and use my legs. Was a long few years, and I still cant run and walk wirth a really bad limp and a cane. People who are healthy and complain about petty shit.... really get to me... I still have over 20 brain tumors alone and more in my spine, kidney and every other organ. Anyway... Best luck to you my friend! Life can be a real pain, but that pain makes you stronger, live 1 day at a time and dont let things get to you.

[@LoveExalted]

Amen 🌸 You will be healed and walk again and fly in Heaven. Thank you for sharing

[@dkc24]

@@dontsubtome9195 hey, you inspire me. How you went through all that and didn't just give up and not walk at all anymore like some people would choose, you still worked your butt off to be able to walk someway, and that's freaking awesome. I applaud you. Your comment humbled me, as this whole page does. My mom died the day before my birthday 2019, and it had felt like there is no point of life ever since. But people like you remind me that my life isn't that bad. It could be wayyy worse. I can still walk and talk, I'm good. Thank you for reminding me that the problems I have are nothing compared to what some people endure on a daily basis. I have a lot of trauma, but you have trauma plus physical issues from the trauma- and you're still going. So I have no excuse. Thank you and I'm praying for you and wishing nothing but blessings and happiness over your life. You inspired someone that's been suicidal for the past 6mos to keep fighting. You have purpose. You matter. You're awesome.❤️❤️❤️

[@Mr-kn6uk]

L4, L5, C5, C6, C7. Im 40 and live every day of my life in pain. Im with ya Cobber!!! The health system classes me as a cat3, so no opp just a sh!t load of addictive drugs. My mental health is crap due to the pain and the drugs Iv experienced in the last five years +++. I slowly loss work, job after job, couldnt even pick a bag of dried leaves up, STILL CAT3. Now Im unemployed and about to loss everything, STILL CAT3. Still it could be worse. All the best mate, chin up!!!!

[@dontsubtome9195]

@@dkc24 Wow

[@samiyahselmon9239]

As a black woman who grew up in Louisiana, I did don’t expect this interview from the title. I hesitated on clicking this due to my prior knowledge of skinheads and not knowing how this would make me feel but I am glad I watched it. I believe our true journey in life is unlearning everything that we were taught to believe we are and actually learning who we are.

[@hereitis.2587]

Amen sister! Part of surviving the hustle of the streets is to evaluate someone to see how safe, drunk, high, and violent they are. Yet, yet, this is why we absolutely have to talk to each other face to face. Give respect, expect respect. Who Dat! , gonna make us hate on each other? Nobody! No division, No conquering! Where y’at!

[@John-mf6ky]

The original skinheads from the UK were not racist at all. it was basically started by working class British and Jamaican kids in the UK that dressed working class (boots, bomber jackets, jeans, buzz cuts, etc) and we're into reggae. Before punk as we know it was even a thing. The racists didn't come until later. You still have SHARPs (skinheads against racial prejudice) to this day. It was pretty big in my city back in the day. There was a pretty big case here in the 90s where a SHARP dude shot and killed a neo notsee in my city.

[@jacobrheaume1]

There is actually a faction of skinheads called SHARP Skinhead against racist prejudice.

[@jacobrheaume1]

@@John-mf6kyjinx.

[@jessaddison9454]

Wow thank you for your information because I almost didn't watch this either because of the skinheads title.andim also glad I did. Thx Mark , you never cease to amaze me 😛

[@eiramiam9703]

Sadly, this man is the embodiment of what the problem in our society is. Our youth is out here crying to be loved and so many parents are letting them down. We need to do better.

[@jaredgreenspan2263]

Parents would be able to be better parents if American society was shaped in a better way regarding public policy, work life, the economy, etc. Most other advanced democracies dont have such issues or to the extent that the US has

[@miloserneculaes3001]

@@jaredgreenspan2263 so true................. .................. so sad and so true.

[@TheSilentpigs100]

He knows whats wrong but cant do anything to fix it and the same happened/ing to me with addiction and the lack of best childhood I hope he can set on the right path.

[@Pelleministeri]

Truth!

[@lethaldosage6040]

exactly. that’s what i thought even before he said it

[@LILE1534]

As a black person I can honestly say this was an enlightening interview- this man has a beautiful soul and like he said, he hates that it took tragic events for him to let other cultures,beliefs and people in. I appreciate this man, I hope he continues to grow as a person and be a great dad. He’s not wrong for saying he wish his parents got their sh*t together sooner- parents play a huge role in their childrens lives. That’s a fact

[@andersrobertsen7610]

Still not your friend. We aren't psychopaths. You and I are different and we have different interests. I put MY people's interests above yours. Psychopaths are not white warriors. You need to feel love to be a white warrior

[@cyrilmatsoukas4804]

@@andersrobertsen7610 Huh? Do you need me to call someone dude?

[@OGRE_HATES_NERDS]

@@andersrobertsen7610 not all white people have the same interests either tho

[@roberth9814]

Thank you for having a big heart and being able to see the good in someone who didn’t always make the best decisions

[@LILE1534]

@@andersrobertsen7610 we’re all gods children brother, I still love you even if you put YOUR peoples interests above mine, whatever that means. I pray that you become enlightened one day like the beautiful soul in this interview, life’s too long to be excluding yourself with knowledge from different cultures and beliefs. You obviously didn’t watch the whole interview

[@Batman-fl5wh]

I’m from Africa and being through so much i was kidnapped when I was 4 years old and was child soldier in Eritrea when hear this beautiful Man i feel his pain I also feel humiliated love to you from another world

[@sealteamryx6758]

I quit my 13 year heroin addiction on july 18 2023... just had enough.... tried to detox myself for about a month then broke down n checked into a hospital... best thing i ever did.... never goin back.... i hope he keeps the faith and gets his demons under control its hard i know but you know ya when youve had enough n cant cut the ties... good luck to him n his family seems like a real G

[@juliepearce6667]

WoW! Good on you, bro! Find your path! ✌️💗

[@sealteamryx6758]

@@juliepearce6667 thanks God bless✊️

[@leea9926]

Awesome! A few days ago a girl on the bus told me she has been clean for 10 days. She was glowing with pride. Thanks for sharing your story, it gives others hope.

[@spergmaster]

last chance to do heroin hector

[@tcaprecap1448]

congrats! I've had great success with suboxone, which I know isn't for everyone, but it's better than turning back to dope.

[@robertfoster2673]

Met this guy about a year ago and I have to say he is one of the most polite dudes I’ve ever met. He truly does feel remorse. Pray for him!

[@valval3147]

🙏🏼

[@TheUncannyvalleygirl77]

Robert can you contact him? I’d be interested in covering some of his medical expenses

[@craftygirl9666]

@@TheUncannyvalleygirl77 Wow! You are so kind and generous to offer him help. Perhaps Mark can get you in touch with him?

[@lordsludge5678]

@@TheUncannyvalleygirl77 people like you should be millionaires.

[@DigitalLibrarian]

Why pray? And how do you tell which god to pray to?

[@RyanNYC]

The saddest part is that Donny sounds like he has a lot of intelligence in him. For someone with little education and a long-term drug addiction, he speaks very well. Had he had good parents and a support system growing up, he could have been really thriving in life. It's unfortunate that most of the "bad" people in society are a byproduct of poor parenting and neglect.

[@flomillishit8348]

thissss

[@highflowerOG]

gen Z are a by-product of millenials, which is why theyre more open and honest with themselves and others. Millenials are a by-product of Boomers, leading them to be closeted and quiet (generally, not always) and not as honest or forthcoming as we should be. Boomers were raised by the Silent generation. WW1, 2, dust bowl, great depression, leading them to be very antagonistic and unwilling to change based on how much change they had to endure at such a hard time in history, as well as the terrible science behind lead being in everything.

[@StrikerFin]

Speaking well don’t mean a person is intelligent, if he was intelligent he would have seen the path he has paved for himself well before it came to this.

[@highflowerOG]

@@StrikerFin you have never made mistakes and regretted them, I assume? If not, you’d be wise to shut up.

[@JA-io8nx]

I was thinking the same thing in terms of how articulate he is

[@Becca60008]

I think he has mad potential, he could even be a public motivational speaker. I think he definitely has the heart to help others, and I really think it would be helping him as well. Such a beautiful soul

[@colinsatx8836]

yeah with the right roles this guy could be an actor, like, today.

[@ORLYNN]

Your right

[@ONeil-S.D]

Definitely

[@earth-oe5le]

Who can't?

[@john-ic5pz]

the vast majority of ppl have mad potential. what's your point

[@emetzger]

He needs to write a book called "the chair" and describe all of this and the lessons learned. best seller guaranteed.

[@aliciaobrien8713]

AMAZING IDEA, ID BUY IT!

[@Switch_Hitta_Beats]

The two things I’ve learned from watching at least 40 episodes is, 1) Family is the most important thing. 2) Don’t judge a book by its cover.

[@leedave9314]

I agree, but mostly heavily on the second one for me

[@stepha2642]

I don't know. Some people are exactly what they look like.

[@cindytackett7106]

3) Don't bite the hand that feeds you.

[@briansearle6868]

That is a much better comment than the most popular comment on this video. The person was suggesting that broken families are the greatest evil in society. But it's not that it's evil, it's that family is extremely important to a healthy upbringing.

[@catherinepraus8635]

Yup and yup

[@rlittlejohn2772]

A skin head with empathy and remorse. A good guy with a horrendous life experience. Abused and neglected as a child. When kids are loved they usually do not turn out this way. It's amazing he still has a heart.

[@ajax3748]

A lot of guys join those kinds of white power type gangs for what they think is love. It's obviously not. I've seen a lot of them that really don't care about any kind of race. Just kinda lost souls if that makes any sense

[@calebgees]

@@ajax3748 You're right, see 10:30

[@iamatlantis1]

I think he was so lost when he was younger that any type of love or companionship appealed to him. Gangs are generally very manipulative of people still in their early teens when grooming and recruiting new members. His need for love and sense of belonging and someone actually caring, allowed him to be reeled in pretty easily by them probably. Its good that he saw through it later in life, and isnt simply dead or in prison.

[@ajax3748]

@@h6fc8ih that's also true. Especially in prison gangs

[@mikemike9449]

Actually it's more amazing that he is still alive

[@niteglow980]

He broke the negative cycle with his son. He prevented the transference down to the next generation. You have to respect that. I wish him all the best.

[@niteglow980]

@Bobby57south Yeah maybe but heart’s in the right place. 🤞🏽

[@johnnyflannigan136]

Hes a fentanyl addict lol... What kind of dad is that? Not to mention hes homeless... Which I didn't realize till later.. He made it sound like hes a single dad

[@King_Goblino]

Yeah I mean, he's clearly got a good heart but how can you be there for your son when your flying signs and smoking fentanyl. Not to mention, without a house. Can't raise a boy in those conditions

[@megglesahnlehkeyi]

With peace and love he hasn’t broken the negative cycle, he’s still a skinhead. He’s still a drug addict. His son is soaking up that image of his dad, and learning his biases. Dangerous behavior.

[@wdotgreatest]

BS! This guys high as hell in this interview.. hopefully his sons mom is a strong woman because his dad is a despicable human.

[@lyndawirth5201]

CEN. Childhood Emotional Neglect. 57 years of feeling that exact feeling you described. Alone in a room full of people and trying to fill that gaping hole I felt inside. I've read a lot about the CEN and it has been eye-opening. Prayers for you and your healing journey forward. God Bless you for attempting to break the cycle. You got this!!!

[@Treblinka818]

Thanks for your reply. I have a similar experience as this guy. Been in counseling off and on since the early 90s...including today - never heard of CEN. I'll check into this...thank you!

[@hereitis.2587]

It doesn’t end because childhood ends. The neglect goes on until the abusers die or you just go on with your life without them. The sooner one realizes you can be free of the yuck the better! What an endless game of power they play!

[@jacobrheaume1]

Where are you from? I’m an LCSW in the states. We talk a lot about ACES adverse childhood experiences. Peds isn’t my specialty but im not familiar with the term you used

[@authenticadversity]

The greatest gift he could give his son is finding sobriety and recovery from his addictions!! Every child wants a sober parent!! Great interview!!

[@Mepookietrat]

One of my greatest accomplishments is getting sober and being a better mom. There is no better feeling than when your children say they are happy because they got their mom back. My oldest thanked me and that broke my heart. He should never have had to see any of that nor tell me thank you for doing what I'm supposed to do. But it does feel good to know they trust me and can count on me. 9 years sober.

[@mrslove4dance]

As a black female, I hesitated to watch this video because I thought it would piss me off lol! I am so glad I decided to watch. This interview was amazing and I wish this man nothing but peace and happiness. One of my favorite interviews on this channel.

[@mcooper593]

What has being a BLACK FEMALE got to do with anything? You stupid woman. It’s people with your attitude who cause problems 🤬

[@ayishalifts9635]

@@mcooper593 are you stupid or just stupid? She was hesitant to watch this because he was/is ignorant towards people of colour. As she stated she is a BLACK WOMAN. I don’t get what you don’t understand?

[@howareyou857]

@@mcooper593 have a think. What a rude obnoxious comment.

[@joem2130]

@@mcooper593 her identifying herself as a black woman in this comment is extremely relevant. Even if you didn't watch the video before commenting ignorance, did you at least read the title?

[@dranchd6571]

As a black female I can say exactly the opposite. But it doesn't matter because no-one knows who I really am. I can claim anything.

[@angelafranklin1994]

I’m a high school teacher and one of the issues with today’s youth is lack of empathy. This young man would be so amazing as a speaker/mentor for youth. I pray he gets clean so he can change lives. God loves you

[@emveetu3672]

I think it's not a lack of empathy the youth suffer from, but rather they don't trusted adults in their lives with whom they feel safe to be vulnerable enough to express that empathy openly and honestly. And not for nothing, but the generations younger than GenX - my gen with one foot in the old way and one foot in the new - these kids are growing up completely differently than we did. Unless their parents are super strict, homeschool, and are off grid, these kids have access to absolutely everything on the internet, good and bad. It has to be talked about openly and honestly from the start with kids. They have to have trusted adults in their lives they can go to with absolutely anything without fear of being punished, shamed, judged or dismissed. Something, something it is better to understand than be understood. It is better to console than be consoled. Older generations admonishing the younger generations isn't specific to this generation. It's specific to humans. It always has been and it always will be. There's something to be said for youth being wasted on the young. Just for reference: "They [Young People] have exalted notions, because they have not been humbled by life or learned its necessary limitations; moreover, their hopeful disposition makes them think themselves equal to great things -- and that means having exalted notions. They would always rather do noble deeds than useful ones: Their lives are regulated more by moral feeling than by reasoning -- all their mistakes are in the direction of doing things excessively and vehemently. They overdo everything -- they love too much, hate too much, and the same with everything else." (Aristotle) "The world is passing through troublous times. The young people of today think of nothing but themselves. They have no reverence for parents or old age. They are impatient of all restraint. They talk as if they knew everything, and what passes for wisdom with us is foolishness with them. As for the girls, they are forward, immodest and unladylike in speech, behavior and dress." (From a sermon preached by Peter the Hermit in A.D. 1274) "I see no hope for the future of our people if they are dependent on frivolous youth of today, for certainly all youth are reckless beyond words... When I was young, we were taught to be discreet and respectful of elders, but the present youth are exceedingly wise [disrespectful] and impatient of restraint". (Hesiod, 8th century BC)

[@angelafranklin1994]

@@emveetu3672 This reply peaked and coincided with the level intellect that encourages me to understand more rather than judge. I am apart of Gen X born in 1976. I remember and your reply helps as well that WE too were judge and complained about. Thank you for your intellect.

[@Rockyscott9461]

THIS times 100!!!!!^^^^^❤️❤️❤️

[@thatdude3977]

Its not empathy missing. Its mentorship and a strong hand for discipline.

[@starvationpool9982]

I agree with you as someone born in 1996… we were the last bunch to hit middle school and still not all of us has cell phones. Sadly social breeds a level of unbridled and unflinching narcissism that leads to humans being self centered, seeking only outward validation, and clinging to the beliefs of the herd rather than thinking for ones self. When I read the title “skinhead” I don’t immediately think “nazi scumbag”… I have seen and heard enough to know there is a level of neglect in their lives and hatred being bred from lack of understanding. You are projecting your hatred and misunderstanding of yourself outward, these are the types that skinhead groups prey upon and give them an outlet for their own hatred.

[@roadrelated2587]

Dear Donny. I wish you could know that you enriched my life. I wish the whole world could hear how you said: "If we all could just bring ourselves to man up and face the issues at hand, there wouldn't really be issues anymore" . Because it doesnt get more accurate than that... Thank you! God bless you!

[@spooky1777]

They should show this to teenagers at school. A very powerful and life lesson video.

[@earth-oe5le]

That's indoctrination. Only math and science no stupidity

[@siobhanstevenson2476]

So articulate. Not what I expected. Clearly bright, self-reflective, a good man emerging. Stay strong young man. You matter.

[@lauranolan4744]

Love your name… That’s what I called My daughter

[@leesadoe2440]

why didnt you expect him to be articulate?

[@emilieraptor9373]

@@leesadoe2440 come on...

[@elainew2230]

He sounds intelligent. How sad that he was raised the way he was and made the choices he made. It sounds like he regrets it. Hopefully he can start out on a better path. It won't be easy with the chair and tattoos.

[@jamessones4044]

INSECURITY is a vicious beast. So self destructive. I’m 45 and have so many issues. My only joys in life is sleep and food. No family,friends.

[@JoelBrage]

Please do a followup on Donny. His reflective thoughts were absolutely captivating and I wish him the power to get off his drugs and luck with his life.

[@andrewomar9887]

Marque just uploaded. He's back in ELEH

[@debwoods5834]

@@andrewomar9887 sorry but what is ELEH

[@andrewomar9887]

@@debwoods5834 Hi Deb, ElEh is a new spelling of LA that's starting to take hold among millennials.

[@rosemarie-karma]

@@andrewomar9887could you post a link please?

[@themulti-coloredcanary5795]

@@andrewomar9887 I remember being a child and hearing my parents say "kids today......."😭 When I realized that that was what they did for LA, I felt like my mother saying "kids today...."

[@dcr1326]

This has been my favorite video of the series so far. I was hit by a guy and put in the ICU, I suffered brain damage, am deaf in one ear, and other injuries. The guy who hit me was high on multiple drugs and this was his 8th OMVI. Hearing Donny be remorseful for his actions really hit home with me. Bad things happen to good people sometimes and it is good to see that Donny realized that he hurt the individual he hit. Keep making changes for the good and spreading your story. It is an important one!!

[@brandonnotsowise2640]

Honestly, as remorseful as they may be they should definitely have their license revoked and not be allowed to drive.

[@dcr1326]

@@brandonnotsowise2640 Something I didn't mention in my initial post was that my accident was the guys 8th OMVI and he got his license back after it.

[@YogiAdrianne]

Black woman here! I believe him. Some people put on the act but and say “oh I like black people now, I changed.” I believe that he’s open to other cultures and I would love to talk to him one day. Keep going Donny!

[@giladfreidkin4369]

He's very honest, interesting how he starts saying something and realizes he lies to himself, and then corrects himself. Not many people can do that.

[@GRyanBee]

Or maybe he's actually just used to talking that b.s to himself, and he understands the way it sounds so it makes him very much feeling like telling it how it is.

[@TsmithJustin]

Ima choose to take ALL ppl at their word, until I'm proven wrong, even if I disagree with their core moral compass. ALL people deserve empathy you poor fuck. I'm sorry you don't like white people. I wanna give you a hug.

[@twobrokeguyz1214]

Well he's aware that everyone else can hear his bullshit also.

[@Anonymous-lq2bs]

I’m not a fan of N-Words either

[@KSmith-fy7yw]

@@TsmithJustin huh..

[@kymzyanks]

His accountability is what makes him unlike many others. While he recognized the struggles in his upbringing, he knows ultimately his choices were his own. So many people use their circumstances as their crutch to stay victims. I wish him the best. I really wish he gets clean, and tells more of his story..

[@gabrielmartin4726]

You nailed it Kym. Accountability. Side note, only other time I've seen the KYM spelling other than my Wife. I agree with you. I hope this guy uses his life experience and willingness to change toward getting clean.

[@terrell9702]

100%

[@LaymanGamin]

Man he’s full of shit y’all gullible af 😂. If u from the streets u can spot a bill shitter a mile away an if y’all can’t see it Y’all need to be very careful in this world smh

[@ajack1312]

@@LaymanGamin Lol those are old boomers from Nowhereville USA, they'd be food in the LAnd. Commenting like they're the authority on life and accountability. Psh. Talking like they know anything about true trauma or hardship and how it can shape people's future prospects.

[@heather1845]

@@ajack1312 some of us do. Much of the hurt is unspeakable . I think we all just have different experience than another with some or many common denominators. I think for some being empathetic is also reacting the way they themselves would have liked. Turn, some are just lying pieces of shit who’ve learned how to bullshit and lie for what they want. Whether if he an audience or vulnerable and trusting individual. Sucks

[@JT-ue1xk]

This was such an honest and powerful interview. You can tell he's being genuine with his story. Even the part where he corrected himself from saying he was doing his best to saying no I'm not doing my best. He's not trying to fluff himself in anyway. He's even sharing the bad parts

[@davidmatthews9088]

Great observation

[@sydneyjordan7331]

I was unsure of what this video would entail but ultimately glad I watched it. He seems like a great guy. Growing up in unstable conditions as a child obviously shaped his choices/friends/beliefs. He's made the necessary changes to grow as a person and that's all any of us can do. I hope he gets clean so his son can continue to learn those great lessons for him. Praying for a safe and full life for him.

[@emmamurray9609]

He’s so articulate and has a lot of self awareness. Imagine what he could have been if he had good parents and a loving home. This shows that your parents can make or break you. They should feel so ashamed that they have created this situation for their son.

[@12w0]

Being articulate doesn't mean anything. Ted Bundy was very articulate, so was Dahmer and so many other monsters. No, I am not calling this person a monster.

[@badhabit8824]

he could possibly be one the most inarticulate people i have ever heard in an interview.,

[@jaces1322]

@@badhabit8824 hes an idiot

[@andrewwinch474]

While bad parents don’t help, plenty of people have risen above that, same as people with good parents have gone bad.

[@fuzzylogics139]

I take from your comment that you feel empathy for this guy. And that's beautiful imo. Blaming and shaming is a little non constructive though. His parents were also children at some point. Also were a product of their environment, genetic makeup and the soul they took to earth and who knows what ever else makes us who we are. Agree with Andrew Winch, having good or bad parents also is no guaranty that you will turn out great or not so great..

[@SillyCyclist29]

"Could you be in a room with a thousand people, even if they knew you, and still feel alone?" That stuck a deep deep cord. I hope you find the love you deserve.

[@Stasiaflonase]

I think there are too many of us who feel this way.

[@davidrock8465]

If that’s the case you’re in the wrong room with the wrong people. Don’t give up they will come along when you least expect it

[@aliciaobrien8713]

RIGHT TO MY CORE!

[@ggrace1133]

Donny, this was very moving…thank you for opening up. You mentioned feeling alone in a room full of people. I encourage you to tell your son sometimes if he ever feels “lost and alone” to come talk to you because you love him more than life,and you will listen and BE THERE for him, no matter what. Always. Tell him his mother will be too, and if he learns to love himself, he will never feel those terrible feelings. Help him to tell you why he believes in himself and loves himself. Teach him core values and good character traits like strength, honesty, integrity, dependability, empathy, kindness, forgiveness, and countless others. Teach him life is something we discover as we build who we are, and it’s hard sometimes, but we can dig deep to BE THERE for ourselves. And life has fantastic beauty and wonders too…wonders like him! Prayers and good wishes for you both going forward.

[@jonellbackman3352]

Certainly not what I was expecting from this interview. I wish him all the best.

[@lashback9748]

This guy is honestly one of the greatest examples of "don't judge a book by it's cover" that i have ever seen. Intelligent, articulate, and completely owning his own actions. Not what most would expect out of someone with extensive face tattoos and a drug addiction.

[@angelacarry]

I totally agree with you. He's so very well spoken, such a pity he didn't get the love and care he needed. A waste.

[@minawanderer8196]

Th!is dude is a good example of Karma!Doing bad stuff bad stuff can happen to you.And yes there are more addiccts you won't believe they are still working and no troubles

[@bigdangerous5044]

Racist apologist

[@notmyworldiliven953]

Fuck out of here.He is a racist post still.

[@85ddrummer]

I came to say the exact same thing. I never would’ve thought this would be as cohesive and understandable as it was

[@1stIndia]

Smh. This guy speaks with the wisdom of someone that’s spent years in recovery. The only thing he seems to be lacking now is sobriety. What a super nice, humble person. Praying for him.

[@birdflipper]

Yes, he's very articulate and accepts responsibility for his actions despite being dealt a bad hand growing up. Hopefully he is able to overcome his addiction and goes on to live a happy life.

[@sixsicsixgod]

This man has lived more than most.

[@RHathemoment]

Same here.

[@jayrose4748]

Except he's a fentanyl addict and could die any day and leave his son behind...

[@ryandavids1129]

How do you know he's a nice person!? Soooo many comments on these videos saying that. You listen to a stranger for 30 min. I'm not saying all these people are bad or good. But there's no way of knowing from seeing a 30 min bit of an interview from behind a screen. I bet Ted Bundy was nice also. Until he raped and killed them.

[@Blunkfam12]

Donny has so much potential, and seems like a kind, loving human being. The answer is rehab...get in a program, work through the trauma. He deserves a good life as does his son. Ive seen so many people completely turn their lives around. Take that step Donny!

[@travismullen]

I pray he is able to get sober for his own sake, but also for the sake of his 7 year old. Once he does that, there is going to be nothing stopping his potential anymore with his outlook. Just needs some loving community, and a home for him and his son. And some beatmaking equipment. Love this dude. Will be praying for his saving off the streets and Fenty. He's so loved.

[@johnelmasian]

“I love my life, but I’m not happy with it.” Wow. How many people can feel that? It’s amazing how different you can feel from all these people in these interviews, yet be seriously forced to introspect. Favorite KZbin channel 🙏🏼

[@sararosales3220]

🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@Misajoejoe1]

Donny is more eloquent than some college educated people I've met. I hope things turn for the better for him. He seems like he has a good heart.

[@Agraphiccollective]

Facts.

[@ar-sithf.austin3744]

People who think a piece of paper means anything are deluded. Just ask Elon Musk... And I've pursued that lie. College and a so called "classical education" means almost NOTHING. Most "genius types" would agree, not just "nothing" but ALMOST nothing. I speak and sound like an ignorant hick but can use the English language better than ninety percent of these so-called "intellectuals" with their pseudo-intellectual nonsense existence of delusion. The question is are you willing to learn and teachable.

[@ar-sithf.austin3744]

Not to mention a multitude of other skills and experience you'll only learn on your own and working different jobs and specialty oriented fields most people will never know who lock themselves into a limited specified field. I feel like Mike Rowe (not "dirty jobs" necessarily) but the experience of them all. From law enforcement, Military, painting, Millwright and mechanic work, restaurant work and cooking, AV/Tech and audio engineering, burying people, property maintenance, Numismatics, dental and medical fields, Air Frame and Powerplants, cutting meat, psychology and substance abuse counseling.... Sometimes wearing multiple hats in multiple jobs at once. One of these days I'll figure out what I want to be when I grow up. Hah! It's really odd to of done so many things in over four decades of life and locking mine into a college "career choice" would of financially made me so much more stable but how would I know how to run a village with nearly every desired aspect of life be covered if needed and better yet, why do I have this experience... Who knows. Who really knows. Life's never what you expect and pretty frêâkïn' weird.

[@katiebergin8449]

This was a really special interview. So not what I was expecting. I really hope there is a follow up on Donny. Thank you for sharing his story. Love this channel.

[@amberdolynny4821]

He’s really taking accountability, and that is so powerful

[@instupitious]

Man, as a person of color I couldn’t be more empathetic, and sincere in my belief his remorse and self-awareness. Early childhood is everything, I hope he finds all the peace in this life.

[@gmac9133]

🍭

[@emerydavis.]

Ehhh fuck em .

[@SicSemperTyrannis-333]

@@emerydavis. are you a troll or are you that blind and ignorant

[@cynthiadeg9206]

What a guy

[@copperdee3073]

@@emerydavis. Yeah fuck him and his kind. We're supposed to feel sorry for this pathetic cowardly fuck now?

[@nickrua]

Man I've been binging these interviews and it's truly unbelievable how many of the issues originated in childhood. Makes me so grateful for the life I've been blessed with and for my loving parents.

[@davidmackii1513]

Jesus. He is always there. We deny.

[@Frosty_yo]

@@davidmackii1513 Just not for these people's childhood

[@tee1]

I saw an interview with Aaron Carter’s sister and she said it’s easier to raise a strong child than to fix a broken adult. It’s so sad how many ppl have messed up childhoods 😔

[@tee1]

@@davidmackii1513if Jesus is real he is evil.

[@WitchyLou]

Same here. I'm rather late, but I'm catching up! I've seen so many of Mark's interviews lately - I've "binge watched" them, & have heard so many people & the stories of how they became to be in their situation already, & it made me think of my family. In my teens I was in many situations that led to bad events. I can say with total positivity, that if it wasn't for my family, who loved me all the way through, until something happened...er...I was raped, I'm just gonna say it, since these other brave people are speaking their truths. That event was the end of my teenage rebellious years, & I am now 42, disabled, & even though I've been through a lot? I have realised that good family is everything. Last night after watching a bunch more of these videos, I literally looked around my flat, (apartment), I thought about my family, we're all really close, & I said out loud, "thank you so much for my life, because it's actually paradise". I thought about my teens, & if it weren't for my family? Well I'd be lost somewhere, ill & unable to escape the horrible people who got to me. These films are so so important. You are opening the eyes of, & educating people all over the world, about what goes on, the individuals who share their stories with sincere honesty, & I believe, & I really hope, that the people that live with such good support networks, families that have been awesome & worked hard to give you lovely childhoods, that you can still sit with yr siblings....for me a sister...& reminisce about it all...I hope they're able to look around & realise just how Blessed they are. I practice Gratitude every day. And it helps, it really does. On my worst days, sitting in so munch physical pain, mental pain, I think to myself, "Yeah, this is really bad. My life now is hard every day, & I do grieve for the person I was before I got ill. I'm only human, so yes, sometimes I've said those 3 words, "it's not fair" 😐 It's taken a long time, but now I imagine, I could be the way I am, without a home to feel bad in....& that is unimaginable to me. I'm thankful for my flat, my sofas to sit on, electricity for heat pads, & simple things people don't even think about, like boiling the kettle every morning for a good cup of tea! A fridge with milk etc in it. Warmth. A bed to lie in when yr too poorly to sit up. A safe & lovely place to sleep at night 😢 - so, even though I do complain sometimes, I tend to feel bad about it, because I know I could be ill without a home. I could be this bad & have no cosy chair to feel bad in. No bed to feel poorly in. I could have to cope with it all living outside on the streets with nothing! And I wouldn't last a week. People who love you, who visit & help you. Family yr in touch with all day long? It's a normality for us, but for many others, it's anything but! 😔 So even when it's incredibly bad, when I can hardly move, & I'm frustrated so much because I can't do the simple things I want to? Even through it all, I am so thankful for everything I have, & everyone I have. People don't realise it, but we live in paradise! I hear the kids today, (generally speaking), & they're complaining cos they ain't got the newest phone, or game console, or all that kind of stuff. And if only they could see & understand what sooo many of these people, & others, so many, haven't got. And how they're having to live, or exist rather. They would see, that really, they have everything! Mark - I think what you've done & what you're doing is a really amazing thing, & I applaud it. In the past couple of weeks I've learned so much about people, different ways of life, & I will continue to do so. It's important that people know about these people & how they have to live. For some, they don't want to watch too much, because they find it depressing. But that is the point! Our eyes & hearts need to be aware of it all! I'm different. I will sit here & take in everything, i plan to educate myself as much as possible. Mark, you can only be helping these people by what yr doing, & respect to you! Now I'm gonna get back to watching. Thank you. Sending loads of love & healing wishes ❤️‍🩹 to all, from Lou, Gateshead UK x

[@philvandewand7182]

Rarely seen such a truthful talk. Only the best to you both, the interviewee & the interviewer

[@PattiLee64]

What an articulate and sensitive young man. I wish him nothing but the best and I sincerely hope he beats his drug addiction and realizes his dreams for the future. Good luck Donny!! ❤

[@Naomi-ji5si]

It really hit me deeply when he said, "If I could get a hold of my drug problem, I know my life would be beautiful." That's it right there - for the people who struggle and for the people that love them. I really appreciate these videos reminding all of us of one another's humanity and fragility.

[@Ninnjette-]

There’s programs and help out there, some people just don’t want to take it I guess. I did, for my son.

[@ey3z4ya]

@@Ninnjette- I think it's more complicated than that. He's literally a skinhead

[@Ninnjette-]

@@ey3z4ya he’s literally a skinhead? Skinheads don’t know where the rehab center is?

[@realmachodubchicago7425]

Donald Trump's Friend Mike Folmer who tried to rig the election and is a Republican Pennsylvania State Senator Pleads Guilty In Child Porn Case kzbin.info/www/bejne/raK6mqptp66kmas

[@wilsonfisk4741]

You do realize he supports Nazism and Hitler right they believe they are superior amongst other races don't how people are on here like yea what great person when gate is something he grew up cultivating and using toward people of other ethnicities wake up smell the coffee should've just did a interview with a biker guy

[@mhystro1]

For the past couple years, I’ve wondered what the real lessons in these videos were, at least for me..,and it finally hit me today. Mark is the lesson…that level of non-judgment and compassion is incredible. If I was conducting this interview there would have been a whole discussion on right and wrong, history and ethics….but to be able to simply listen and empathize?! Powerful. From today on I will strive to continually move more in that direction.🙏🏽 we are one.

[@gwennk4962]

So true. He has been an example of how to listen without judgement. That is something that sounds so simple but it is so powerful. I think there is something about his energy that must be uniquely safe and comforting... something like the strong oak tree offering temporary respite in the storm. 👋

[@KimbradleyMasterGardener]

Mark has plenty of "judgment " just like everyone else. He just keeps it to himself. Usually comes out in the form of whining about comments that disagree with him wasting our donations. Yet, I too support and appreciate his humanitarian passions!!!

[@kris9259]

What a great comment! I think you are spot on!!

[@heathercarrillo3873]

Truth🖤

[@leneo1731]

Good for you! We're all here to learn. And to listen. We're all work in progress. But remember that to do interviews this way, one has to be quiet. He's very close to being a journalist. And you rarely see a journalist arguing with their interview object, right. That would be a dialogue, not an interview 😊 We can all be much more journalists and less of ourselves 😁

[@ValentinMichelle]

The title is very discouraging. I almost didn’t want to watch it, but out of respect for all humans, I decided to. I couldn’t be happier that I did! This has to be my absolute favorite interviews you’ve done! It truly shows that no matter a person’s past, there is always room for growth and change! Sir, you are a wonderful human being and sound like an amazing father. I hope that you can find your sobriety for yourself and your son! Sending tons of healing vibes your way!

[@kylebroussard5952]

You can tell when a person has come to peace with their past, their present, and their future. Regardless of what he's done, you can tell this man has looked into his own soul and seen himself for all he is and was and could be.

[@emiliepryor51]

I didn’t expect the way this interview went. He’s a decent young man and I hope he gets the help he needs. Thank you for the video.

[@steez5769]

Hey Mark, I think people have mentioned it on previous videos but I figured I'd mention it again here since Donny could really benefit from it and if others reading this are unaware. There's a non-profit organization in LA's Chinatown north of skid row called Homeboy Industries where they provide training, rehabilitation and support to formerly involved gang and incarcerated individuals. They apparently also provide free tattoo removal. Would be a perfect program to direct Donny, should he want that assistance.

[@blakeking1834]

This man could help and heal so many people. I hope he knows his true potential 🙏

[@Xoletta]

Donny, this was an amazing interview. You've had such a long, hard journey to this stage of your life. You obviously have spent a great deal of time reflecting on your past and doing your best to make sense of this world. I wish you all the best, and may you continue to be a central part and positive role model for your son. Take care!

[@forcex4]

"Can you ever be in a room with 1000 people...people you even know...and still feel alone?" Fuck that hit hard. This dude just wanted love, like any human being yearns for. I wish the best for this dude🙏🖤

[@ab-bc2gr]

plenty of people don't get love and don't steal cars and hurt others.

[@Ty91681]

@@Elandgol Do you support the BLM?

[@ottam]

@@ab-bc2gr Yes, some other people deal with problems better than he did. But he is the best you'd expect from the penal system as it currently exists in America: a remorseful agent who accepts blame for his crimes and seeks forgiveness. What more do you want?

[@ottam]

@@Elandgol The statistical data is clear: BLM has no current reason to exist. It is a product of biased and avaricious media, as well as victim narratives and white guilt. People like Roland Fryer have done the statistical breakdown of this and found that, when crime rates are factored in, blacks do not experience death by police at higher rates than whites. However, due to a glut of white guilt and black resentment, stories gain traction in a nation where whites will do anything to avoid being called the "R-word". Leftists have been polled and an absurdly high number of them think that 10,000+ unarmed blacks are killed by police every year. The year of the riots yielded a total number of 19. NINETEEN! In a country will 40M black people who make up a very disproportionate number of criminal arrests. Sadly, a history of real racism and mistreatment primes many of them to believe the worst. But if people had any interest at all in getting to the root of the numbers, it would become a non-issue overnight. Imagine that: no riots, no looting, no 24/7 coverage of victim narratives. But nobody likes the truth. If you want to see what "Just talk to them about it" looks like, watch the Joe Rogan podcast with Sam Harris and Hannibal Buress. Narrative vs Numbers. Sorry, but nobody with sense will feed that fire.

[@rambo1515]

Common quote in AA

[@bigdog33bad]

"Don't judge a book by its cover" has never been more true as it is than with this fellow. I wish him well with his future, I think he deserves it.

[@AshBear2008]

Agreed. ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@davidschmidt270]

Clearly.... he's a good dude....may God help me....nourish him with love....may Angel's always protect him as he upsets the evil in this world with hope and positive change! Amen amen 👏👏👏👏👏🌵🐧

[@SolomonRasputin]

🧢, people say that cliche all the time but it’s human instinct to judge a book by its cover.

[@carlos66965]

@@SolomonRasputin Just because it naturally happens, doesn't mean its good necessarily.

[@pafena]

Foh he's a bum

[@ThirdEyeWize]

Thanks for sharing, Donny. What a remarkable story. I pray your son becomes everything you want him to be and more. Take care of yourself 🙏🏽

[@dinasikorska8106]

He is so well-spoken and articulate. I know his feeling of loneliness so well... It's so sad that in this world there are so many lonely soles... Donny is definitely on the right path. What he's achieved in the last few year is amazing 👏

[@brucefollett8117]

These interviews feel like important historical documents. Nostalgia can be stifling and insidious. These conversations pull back a veil.

[@createwithme5458]

I totally agree, this has to be some of the most revealing content on KZbin Sadly, I feel like this channel is “refreshing” because it tells an entirely different story about this country than what is portrayed elsewhere And it is probably more accurate to what goes on in day to day life in the US than anything else you’ll see on KZbin or the media This is the type of content that is useful, important & urgent No one has ever been there for these people, most of them have been subjected to unimaginable circumstances and they are all “invisible” & silenced in this culture This channel sheds incredibly important light on what is actually going on in this country on a daily basis

[@elleeh27]

Well said

[@STLATXWPB]

They’re the stories people don’t have time for when they see people like this on the street. Hopefully they can spark a little empathy.

[@magyarmainer4692]

Great insight.

[@ricksandoval7130]

@@createwithme5458 brilliant and insightful

[@ghambonious]

Once this dude clears his addiction cycle, he is going to realize that he is an asset to many injured young dudes who are following in his steps. I hope,we get a redemption video from this kid. And, he learns to love himself, and that people are cheering for him.

[@jakecutting7227]

Spot on! Good comment mate

[@hangingchad_]

"If I could get ahold of my drug addiction, I know my life would be beautiful..." I can't tell you how much I feel that. I'm 33, and I'm an addict of 17 years. I am in recovery, and I have been working at tapering off of benzos and opiates for the past 5 years. I think about what life might be like on the other side of this, but I have to admit, I'm afraid I went too far with this. I feel like it's destroyed my mind, and that my personality isn't the same. I don't know what life will be like, but I hope it's beautiful. Or even just slightly better. Some peace and relief would be life-changing for me, considering the condition I'm in now.

[@hangingchad_]

That said, I really hope Donny keeps going in the right direction. He has a good heart, and he deserves a better life.

[@oskar705]

@@hangingchad_ Don’t be discourage brother life is indeed beautiful, I’ve been sober for 338 days after 23 years of Alcohol and drugs,.blessings to you and your family 🙏🏻❤️😎

[@SevenHunnid]

I quit my job recently because i make more money by smoking weed on my KZbin channel ! we need more mexicans at the Top ):

[@lindseydy9112]

He seems like such a beautiful person, I really hope his path leads him to getting clean and being truly happy.

[@marymartha5363]

Thank you Mark for correcting him in saying that he ruined more than just their day!

[@mbuck253]

14:42 watching him come to the realization in real-time that he has become the father that he always wished he had. Realizing that he’s finally breaking the negative cycle with his child going forward. What an amazing moment!

[@oDIRECTORo]

Life is a psychedelic roller…ups and downs….bright and dark…slow and fast…ya might shit yourself so hold on tight.

[@Nettamorphosis]

That was a magical moment.

[@williamalexander1863]

He's a drug addict confined to a wheelchair and and lives on the streets begging for money. Yeah some father to look up to.

[@FragolaJen]

HE BROKE THE CYCLE!!! ❤❤❤ So heartbreaking that his parents set his path in motion but how awesome that he's self-aware enough to turn tragedy into change.

[@Zachula619]

Felt fake

[@R0B690]

"Became the dad I never had" I felt that. Bad parenting causes problems but also shows them what is wrong and they can do better to their own kids. His mind is really in the right place. I hope things get better for him.

[@Gross_Malone]

There is no good parent who is also a fentanyl addict. It cannot be.

[@stevenhuckabay7997]

I mean look at Eminem

[@violetaviana1888]

@@Gross_Malone exactly. he may have good intentions, but being a 7 year old visiting your wheelchair bound dad, face full of prison tats, high as hell on skid row could only bring this child trauma. he doesnt realize trauma not only comes from neglect and lack of affection, but also from extreme environments like his. i was abused and neglected as a child and still, i always think about others safety. i dont even get in cars where the driver had more than one beer because hurting a stranger would scar me for life. im not buying his "i never meant to hurt anyone", everyone knows a car is a weapon. he also hurt and traumatized people by robbing them. i understand his resentment but youre not the only one whos gone thru shit, empathy is inherent to a person and you either have it or you dont.

[@mamasatanlbc]

This guy was suggested to me as a potential match on a single parents dating app just a few days ago. He has brown natural hair, and had a swollen forehead and bandaid on his eyebrow. His face looked more healthy other than that. Hope he's OK. Hope he's staying sober.

[@CollinNMom]

Very articulate and excellent communication skills. Prayerfully, he will prosper in all that he does! He still has a good deal of life ahead of him!

[@boysurfs]

This man is one of the most articulate and honest speakers I’ve seen. If he could overcome his addiction, he could be the voice of many.

[@bbowman3526]

There are a lot of criminals in the same spot as him… not every criminal is dumb they often come from shitty backgrounds

[@steveb3303]

Nope , not with all that shit on his face

[@boysurfs]

@@bbowman3526 I’m not implying any criminal is dumb; I’m saying this individual in particular is very articulate and honest. Also, I like to argue that those addicted to drugs are not truly criminals but are rather just sick.

[@bbowman3526]

@@boysurfs i was just piggybacking what you said i was t disagreeing

[@potatostarch72]

He could prob be that even with his addiction. As an example of compassion, you don't need to be an example of perfection is my opinion.

[@steveo7116]

Of all the interviews I’ve watched here, nobody has made me to feel more hope for change than with this fella. Keep fighting sir. Stay with your son and kept your focus on him. Stay humble. God bless you man.

[@clarissiaperson1630]

yesss💯🙏🏽

[@nate6045]

There's a few cracks in his story. I don't mean to be a Debbie Downer here but critically speaking, he's homeless and panhandling yet he's talking about how he's trying to start a business. He talks about how he's an only father and that his son is at the top of his class but if he's homeless, he's not both living in a tent with his son AND that son is at the top of his class. I have an ex like him. My ex has a tendency of acting like their current circumstances are lucrative when they are anything but. He also came from terrible circumstances and attempts to live a lie. Sometimes I think he even believes his ideas of grandeur. I don't think either of them are bad people but it's really important for people to not just accept the bad things they've done and their past as a whole but also all of their current circumstances as well otherwise they're just letting thekr pride stiffle their own growth.

[@bellaangus1213]

Still heartbreaking to see all the ruined lives.

[@Sophiedbf]

I feel the same way !

[@hellbabyy]

Keep*

[@skiesboi]

Wow, I am so moved by this interview. Thank you so much for letting him talk.

[@Brauers_BallHogs]

As an addict in recovery, I love hearing the stories of everyone struggling with or in the process of recovery from substance abuse. No matter what race, creed, religion, sex, whatever. It shows that we all struggle with the same issues that lead us to use. At our roots we all have the same basic fears, triggers, hopes, needs. I love that Mark helps show us that we aren’t so different. We’re all the same product, just manufactured a bit different.

[@aliciaobrien8713]

LOVE THE WAY YOU SAID THIS!!!!❤

[@jacobrheaume1]

The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop using. NA ain’t for everyone but they got that part right

[@g1ss]

A highly intelligent , articulate and empathic young man. I hope he turns the rest of his life around. He has a lot of potential.

[@stefflouis]

He hurt a lot of people.He should have no tattos anymore in order to forgat his past. He is lucky to be alive. He stole cars...

[@cannotfindmyshoes3]

He's not articulate though. It seems hé has a gentle soul under all that shit, but he isn't very articulate. Sometimes you can bé articulate but if you're starting to get sick and you're getting all anxious, you can get a massive brain-fog and it's difficult to even string one sentence together.

[@cladd9910]

Oh boy 🤦‍♂️

[@Dazarabia522]

People who are damaged from a traumatic childhood can act out in horrific ways, but compassion for others begins with compassion for the self. I am glad that Donny has ben able to reflect on his life and turn so much pain into a new sense of purpose which is of course being a loving father.

[@Slabgorilla]

Fax

[@msjohnston6280]

Does he want everyone to feel sorry for him??? LOL poor guy is for sure

[@2intriguing1]

All of us don't hate other races though WE have a right to so this sounds like your typical racial excuse for hate

[@daughertyjack1]

@@2intriguing1 so you think you have a right to hate, huh?

[@jrpapi5]

@@daughertyjack1 go about your business anyone with a brain can see through that crap and you know it🙄 you know the answer to that

[@lovesalldogs1853]

This is likely the best interview yet. Once again Mark- thank you for making this possible

[@adamphillips2254]

Probably the only person on this channel who actually took responsibility for his actions.

[@alexanderthornton4152]

Man, the moment he realizes that he can be the father in his son's life that he always wanted is incredible.

[@devonbajuramacaulay6508]

Trauma is the real gateway drug! Donny touched my heart, and I wish him all of the love and security he's searching for.

[@michellecarew7778]

Family trauma we are products of our environment,

[@randubAWEcity]

Man, I hope this guy was able to overcome his addiction. He has a beautiful soul.

[@danawinsor1380]

Donny, my heart goes out to you! You are so brave and so intelligent, understanding, and you don't pity yourself. I learned frorm you. You are a good man and a great Dad.

[@amygibbens5055]

Agreed!

[@zanies6882]

"Could you be in a room with a 1000 people, who know you even and still just feel utterly alone?" Absolutely.

[@MzCR73]

It broke my heart hearing him talk about the longing for love of parents. Every child deserves that, he deserves that! I'm sure he's a good father because of it.

[@richardsanjose3692]

So many grow up witb sociopathic personalities for parents. I grew up with upper middle class parents. One an electrical engineer and the other a homemaker but devoid of the ability to express love verbally or physically. My mother grew up in a home just like I described as did my father In the depression and it's so odd that they'd turn out to replicate that home environment themselves. They even had no love for each other and after 26 yrs divorced. I remember vowing many times growing up that I would have kids and would tell them I loved them daily as corner as that may sound and I did, .......right up until the divorce and at just 2 yrs old they were taken and given to the mother. At 12 yrs old one was given back to me by the mom and I raised her till 21 and I did tell her daily I loved her but it was too late to form that bond as it has to be a kitten and thus she's now pushin towards 40 and I've not spoken to her in 2 years or the grandaughter and it's been 6 yrs for her sister though one lives 2 miles away and the other just 20. Don't ask cuz as I said I'd no opportunity to bond at the critical young age so I lost any chance.Becuz of her divorcing me and the fact that she was much the same as my parents and didn't love the kids but sought males for companionship as a priority and paid the girls little need she's got no relationship with them either. Dispute my wish to have a real family it turned to mush and now I wonder if my girls will windup raising fucked up families too.Anyways as I was speaking of my parents. I don't believe most people realize how little it takes to damage a kid for life psychologically and how small actions by a parent can have lasting consequences in their child's development and future actions.My own mother I recall telling me around 5 yrs old and on thru my life that I'd been a mistake and she'd not planned to have me and once the order was placed had hoped I'd be a girl and she'd named me Vicky Lynn. Essentially telling a 5 he old he was a mistake and she never wanted me. It was reinforced by the fact that neither ever spoke to each other or I the words I LOVE YOU,ever to this day and my mom's 90. Whenever there was a conflict growing up of anykind my mother would always take the opposing side against me no matter what the evidence so I never had someone in my corner. My father in some ways was kinder. He never said I love u but then again outside of beating me for not getting the grades they wanted me to, he didn't speak to me at all.so I had no father for the most part.ix watch tv shows and neighbors and friends families where sons and dads did things together but I never was able to expiereance that. Once he went on a boy scout camp out with me and the other dad's and sons but I didn't see him as he was playing with the other dad's except when I ,using a hatchet ,cur my finger badly and he appeared briefly to tell me" ha ha ur gonna need stitches" becuz he knew I was deathly afraid of needles. I've never had those stitches and I'm fine.In the movies the old folks on their deathbeds reach out to their children and apologize for the pain they caused. In the movies,only. My father died still having only called me or spoken to me perhaps a dozen times since I left home at 18 with $17 and his old car he sold me.He was on wife number three when he died and had a fairly large estate and I was his only child and it musta been over a million bucks as I'll never know since he left me ,as in Rainman, the rose bushes.....zip nada........he left it all to his last wife and I appeared as number 4 on the will if the three above died (none relatives) I'd be the exec.His last wife called me after he killed himself at 81 and said ," ur dad left u some tools so.come.get them" I drove 400 miles down there and picked up a Makita circular saw and returned. I figure he didn't leave that to me she just didn't want it. Oddly enough either of these grandparents never not once in the 35 yrs of my girls lives ever sent them a Xmas gift,card,phone call or letter thus they never really knew their grandparents and now my daughter is replicating that as I've not seen my only grandchild in years and at 7 she's about past that bonding age now so it's just perfect circle. Enough whining for now. My point being it takes so little to destroy a child's personality and so little to make them into what they should be just the love that u shouldn't have to have ur arm twisted to give.

[@MzCR73]

@@richardsanjose3692 wow, that's tough. I'm sorry you were dealt that hand. As for your daughters, I do believe things can change down the line, there may be hope for them. Hopefully they are raising their brood with the love and compassion you so desired and needed. I understand the issue of the mother's who are not very loving towards their children in a way the kids need them to be. Being hugged and loved is very important. I hope you are able to rise above the lack of love you felt and live your life in happiness knowing that you can't change the past but you can open your heart and mind to a better present and future. Don't let it define you. Sadly, some people have issues and it manifests into their own future in a negative way which impacts their family members. Take care and chin up! 🙂

[@R0llingHard]

At least half the people in recovery have this issue - it's certainly the same for me, despite having a great life from the outside looking in.

[@MzCR73]

@@R0llingHard heartbreaking! Wishing you love, light, and healing. It's important to recognize you are worthy of love. It's unfortunate when parents who suffer mental illness or other issues don't realize the consequences their children will endure. Thankfully, there is hope. It doesn't happen over night but one can pave his own path. Much love to you.

[@laurenmichaels1728]

Really great interview. Donny gives me hope for humanity. That people can change for the better. Bless him, wish the best for him and his son!

[@euniemin1334]

This young man is amazing. He's so insightful and ultimately such a good person. His rage was so destructive against himself and others. It's all about the parents.

[@garethgazz9332]

Donny should go talk to kids in schools and be their inspiration. He understands exactly what kids from broken homes feel and why they might end up going in the wrong direction, and he can explain it properly too.

[@buddyratcliff2894]

3 minutes into video. I seen he believes he’s a victim.

[@steezydan8543]

@@buddyratcliff2894 He can believe he's a victim of child abuse/neglect and still hold himself responsible for his actions later on in life. I don't think he's making excuses.

[@kaitlynjones7570]

Inspiration for drug addiction?

[@tonyc4776]

Gotta get clean first

[@mictrey2267]

Yes i would love a drug addict to come talk to my kid about being a great person

[@berniejaylea]

I like the fact that he's not using expletives and offensive words to express himself. I pray he finds the healing and love he deserves and I pray the curse is broken and his son doesn't inherit the same inclination. I also hope you heal the rift with your parents, not talking to them and not forgiving them may compound your situation and prolong your healing, so please reach out to them ASAP. Much love and blessings to you❤.

[@turkeyguy0]

You know, now that you mention it, I don't think I heard a single "explicit" thing.

[@YouFeudTV]

I definitely take people more seriously when they don’t swear

[@Anonymous-lq2bs]

@@YouFeudTV you’re a fucking gem!

[@Anonymous-lq2bs]

@@YouFeudTV go shit in your hat

[@Iron-and-strings]

@@Anonymous-lq2bs such class….

[@stevetilk4926]

This young man reminds me of one of my friends who spent 20 years in the penitentiary. My friend got cancer while in prison and that is what enabled him to beat his addiction to meth. My friend was not a good man prior to his imprisonment. However, today he’s a very good person and I’m proud to call him a friend. This young man shows contrition and maturity. I hope the best for him.

[@hope6107]

So proud of him for how far he’s come! Keep going! ❤

[@eric6cartman9]

hearing him talk about his role in his sons life as compared to his parents is beyond powerful. breaking the cycle is one of the hardest things to of in life especially when the cards are stacked against u this way. I got chills

[@Zainkhan-zq6cn]

Where u from? Can you help me to connect with Donny. I'm Fromm India, i dunno more about America. Even i tried find out the mail but couldn't find it.

[@davidparker9676]

I know a lot of older gang members and they see the destruction it has caused but still have a twisted sense of loyalty to the gang and don't want to remove their tattoos. When their kids get older, they join gangs thinking that their dad made it through the process and survived okay. It is actually rare that the former gang members will take advantage of free tattoo removal services and denounce the gang.

[@davidparker9676]

@@Zainkhan-zq6cn Donny is homeless, living on the streets of Los Angeles.

[@Zainkhan-zq6cn]

@@davidparker9676 😭😭 donny is good men

[@ClayF403]

It's really my main goal in life too. My only purpose in life is to raise my son the opposite of how I was raised so he doesn't have to know the pain of living in a fucked up environment. Will I ever be able to have a healthy relationship with a woman because I was never shown a good example? Maybe not, but at least I know I can put all of my love and effort into my son so he can be a better person than myself. 13 years in to be a father and it couldn't be going better, and the great thing is that not only does it benefit him, it also teaches you more about yourself than you ever would have learned otherwise. If anything, it saved my life because I was also on a bad path of drugs, alcohol, and reckless behaviour but having a child has taught me there's more important things in life than indulgence, selflessness and giving yourself to others is a more powerful high than anything a drug could give me.

[@Aaron-vv2hx]

If more people could be honest with themselves like this guy is, we'd live in a better world.

[@solomonKachi7000]

@@yungboomer6467 yeah i feel you I know someone who nearly destroyed my life but i try not to hold grudges against them

[@ArteIsVida]

Look what it took for him to find empathy

[@travistwwreck1535]

@@yungboomer6467 What a load of Rubbish . You want the believe that, but no one thinks like than ,This is the Problems with nice Humans ,those who preach and those who are honest . You preach ,but I bet if it happened to you the story would be different .I dont forget, I dont forgive , I accept the actions and get on with my life, They did wrong and it is up to them to correct the wrong , You preach kindness for the wrong People , a stranger ,a trusted friend , and animals gets my kindness, those who have done me wrong get what they deserve , wrath for the wrong Empathy for trying to correct it, NEVER Kindness ever again.

[@ryandavids1129]

Lol. Really? You can still be honest with yourself, and be a shitty person. Nice try with the rainbows and ice cream and kittens happy hippie BS theory.

[@ryandavids1129]

Yes, this guy is the embodiment of what a winner is. And it's all because of his honesty. 😂 Get real folks.

[@caroleyousif1008]

Donny , thank you for sharing your life story. You are a genuine , compassionate human being , I feel sorry that you had such a rotten childhood. You are an inspiration.

[@CuriousCat8572]

This was a good interview, glad he has opened his heart and mind to be curious about the differences of other people (and not hateful). I hope we get an update and hope he is doing well

[@margaritochavez5568]

“Have you ever been in a room with say a thousand people that know you, and you feel just utterly alone” Profound statement!!! Damnit Donnie get into recovery and tap in to who you really are. 1 luv

[@tonyc4776]

Totally understand makes sense

[@Dobad415]

Too many of us can relate to that. Jesus Christ is my only hope

[@aaronfischer9885]

I know that feeling.

[@M5StAr.2.0]

i feel him i hve hope for him

[@Humgin1234]

Yes

[@CrackberryMe]

Donny’s level of self awareness and remorse is beyond profound.. It is his growth and learning the hardest experience lessons in life. The way he articulated everything about himself incredible . I hope you bring him back for a follow up.

[@dewilew2137]

Everyone is talking about how self aware he is, but he’s not even self aware enough to realize that he’s not a good parent. There’s no such thing as a good drug addicted parent. Especially not one who is living on the street.

[@CrackberryMe]

@@dewilew2137 that’s true but isn’t growth a process that nobody is perfect at. We all know he’s not the best parent, but at least he is AWARE enough to know that he doesn’t want to make those mistakes with his son that his parents did with him.

[@kristivaught9541]

I agree, he expresses himself well considering his harsh childhood and lack of education.

[@toofar2real]

It's really not that impressive, obviously he's not a moron and do to his physical limitations and drug use he's had a lot of time to self reflect and be honest with himself. He's a living lesson of why it's so important to be in your kids life..why young people need guidance because a couple of wrong decisions while you're young can fuck up the rest of your life

[@rootbeer2399]

Hey, I grew up around skinheads in California and I know one thing, he is still about that SH lifestyle, 100%. He may be aware and portray remorse but he is still with his white 'comrades'

[@Spikeydelic]

this channel is so good.. you should get a Nobel price fot this.. its always a rollercoaster of emotions. some very confronting topics. i usually have goosebumps and tears in my eyes at the end.

[@masonmcclure4919]

this was my favorite video of yours just bewcuase of how amazing he told his story. I wish the best for you Donny, and you inspire me and many others to strive to be the best version of ourselves.

[@EASTCOASTNATURE]

You could hear the sadness in his voice when he spoke about the people he injured in that car accident. You can tell he's genuinely sorry for what he did. I hope all the best for this young man.

[@silverranger3532]

Yeah. That helps his victims.

[@DocStrange0123]

@@silverranger3532 Better that rather than he would be happy about it, and maybe, just maybe makes someone that beholds his story to think.

[@rishbub]

@@DocStrange0123 is this correct grammar? Actually asking btw.

[@DocStrange0123]

@@rishbub Probably not, I think there's a little mistake, english is not my mother language, but honestly i'm quite lazy to correct it right now.

[@Erikoxendine]

He's sorry that he put himself in that chair....he knew he was putting thousands of people's lives in danger and didn't care....if he wasn't in that chair, he'd still be that same person...he said it himself. That him being in the chair changed him

[@angiehallagan9907]

I’m a 911 dispatcher working in a rough part of the Western United States, and I put this man’s video on just now while I’m cleaning my makeup cabinet on my night off. Too busy to watch the video, but my ears fully took in his testimony. Donny: I truly believe in my heart of hearts, with as much as I’ve experienced in my career path, that you are a changed man and I hope that those you wronged in the past can find it in their hearts to forgive you someday. I speak to unhoused folks and those struggling with addiction every single day, my heart goes out to you on all of those aspects. I’m visiting DTLA this summer and if I happen upon you on Skid, I’d like to reach out to you and see how I can help. Peace be with you, brother.

[@bsu88]

This guy turned his whole view on life around. Props to this guy hope he gets some luck on his side.

[@seatrill]

I’m a new fan of this channel. Always been interested in the human experience. After 2-3 weeks of watching Soft White Underbelly interviews I’ve come to think that it’s less the money he pays these individuals to participate and much much more that they themselves are finally finding a platform to be HEARD. Mark is a good non biased listener and doesn’t shame them nor outwardly make them feel uncomfortable. Sometimes after watching g 2 or 3 interviews in a row I find the same questions he asks dull (hey mark can ya mix it up a bit please. lol) But most of these people are finally asked how they came to be who they are and what does it feel like to be them. Thank you Mark for giving these people a place to speak and be heard. We are all a product of culture and many of these interviewees are the unfortunate ones to be a victim of crappy circumstances and legacy addicts or abusers or unloved children. truly a very sad sign of out time.

[@hitlersmissingtesticle69]

Broken children turn into broken adults, family plays the biggest role because they’re you’re biggest influence.

[@rhondasavage8590]

“I appreciate you” The last statement he says to Mark, says volumes to what type a person he truly is.

[@romerider1000]

All the other things he says speaks volumes to who he really is but so many of y’all are deaf. I’m sure he appreciates everyone he’s allowed to take advantage of and manipulate

[@HondoCalhoun69.75]

Yeah... He also says 'I appreciate you" when he leaves his fentenyl drug dealers house to go home and pretend to be a good daddy to his son. He doesnt need to spend his dope money on his kid. He is WEAK and came prepared to make you all emotional in hopes of you hittin that Go Fund Me page scoring a bigass bag of dope. Im sure he appreciates you too.

[@Phoenix-tq8lt]

@@HondoCalhoun69.75 all the deep fentenyl addicts I know(used to do it).. They're only manipulative and dangerous when they're sick. It's the body taking over to do anything possible to protect from the immense pain that would come.. but I was lucky with the ppl I was with for the most part.. some of them have huge hearts actually all saved me from an OD when I had 1000 bucks in my pocket too and drove me to the hospital

[@frederiqued.-aubry4795]

I really appreciated his story! Love and compassion above everything 👏👏

[@user-hn8nj8dw1m]

Mark you handled this interview with tact and grace. Great job dealing with this situation.