Appalachian Woman interview-Ashlyn

Soft White Underbelly interview and portrait of Ashlyn, an Appalachian woman from Leslie County, Kentucky.
For earlier, ad-free, uncensored versions of SWU videos, as well as some exclusive videos please subscribe to: softwhiteunder....
Here's how to purchase the Soft White Underbelly book & merch: softwhiteunder....
#swu #softwhiteunderbelly #marklaita #documentary #appalachia #kentucky

[@thedildozer6775]

Mark, I am from Harlan County, Ky and I absolutely love your videos. Thank you so much for bringing light to the hardship that comes with living in poverty stricken Appalachia. Growing up here is not like growing up anywhere else in the world. You will have very great experiences and meet great characters. I have a character from Harlan County that I would love to see you interview, his name is John Terry. John is big name around here, he was a very wild 6'3 300 pound bad ass who nobody messed with but loved to be around (unless he was drinkin' that day) and now he has evolved to be a wise old man. John Terry is a true character and representative of Appalachian life in Eastern, Ky and I would love to see you interview him. He is the last of his kind and deserves to have some form of remembrance. It would make for a great video. A lot of people are commenting so if y'all could give this a thumbs up so that Mark can see it I would greatly appreciate that! Please get in contact with me and I will give you his address and Facebook.

[@thedildozer6775]

@@dlesliejones Thanks, buddy.

[@Humgin1234]

Heck yes! Bless you and that interesting, fascinating culture of American people

[@gm7651]

These videos provide such a unique view of those who live in Appalachia.

[@Cr33p_ChiLd]

@@thedildozer6775 My family is from the same area on my daddy's side! You kno anyone with the last name of "Fee"???

[@mikekell920]

Sounds like it would be a great interview Mr. Dildozer!

[@brians7901]

"I had a pretty loving childhood" and "my mom pimped me out" should never be in the same story

[@sierramist9965]

My mom is still abusive and she has my son . Omg 😳

[@jamallabarge2665]

When you don't know better, you don't know better. I've never met anyone like her around here.

[@kathymarie3723]

That poor girl is just messed up unfortunately she brought children into this world.

[@AlahuSnackbar]

It's very common for people to be clueless about how abusive their childhood was

[@313-v9k]

I agree and the the abused don't know any better. There was a news story here in Detroit. I guy took his dog to a vacant lot and set it on fire because he just didn't want the dog anymore. The poor dog survived and followed the guy home because it didn't know any better, it had no where else to go. Abused people are the same as that dog. I know from experience. When I was a kid I thought I had it pretty good. But when I look back now at my mean alcoholic father and mentally ill mother I feel lucky that I survived okay. My siblings didn't. I think about that dog a lot these days.

[@sweet_summers]

I've been sober for almost a year now, from an addict addicted at the age of 10 until 32. I'm almost 33.I've been high my entire life. Today I'm sober, its HARD! Constant reminders everywhere but I'm determined to stay sober. I say alllllllll that to say this..its hard and for anyone out there going through it you're not alone! Stay strong and focused! You got this!😊🤗

[@stogieguy7201]

Keep up the good work and may your future be peaceful and happy

[@williamdavis8451]

Keep striving great job

[@jaynenaughton6172]

Congratulations on your sobriety!

[@leoroberts5044]

I've been around the rooms, have a few 24s, and if I may, it get's easer. As the years go by, I miss it less and less, and then one day, something will happen to bring me right back! I'm fortunate, I live in a part of the country where there are meetings like every hour, in like every free building! So keep coming back. Trying to figure out if I can throw in one more cliche'!

[@SuperJMONTI]

You're doing great ! Keep your head up!

[@hannahmassengill8968]

I know this girl personally. I was her sponsor when she was in treatment at Cumberland Hope Community Center in Harlan, KY. She is a beautiful soul. Remembering her sober&&running across this yesterday made me cry like a baby. God love her, her family&I pray she gets sober again, before it takes another beautiful young life too soon.

[@hopskotchsquirrel9504]

Aren't there HIPPA laws?

[@NoName-rm1nv]

Way to break her anonymity

[@Fleetk90]

@@hopskotchsquirrel9504 this..

[@ismanovska]

She doesn't say her name so how is it hippa

[@Plumbob_3]

Thank you for caring for the broken people. ❤

[@supmet2]

Almost every one of the people interviewed say they had a good childhood...and then once the details come pouring out, it turns out to be a complete disaster.

[@dy9278]

Yes they made it out alive. Many don't.

[@victoriaTWF]

They don’t know any different 😔

[@kateschannel5774]

You tell yourself it was better than it actually was, for multiple reasons, emotional survival..ect

[@Ksane]

Because look at the horrendous examples they have to compare to. When you only get slapped & kicked you think you're not abused because you don't get hit with a closed fist. The kid or woman who only gets black eyes when their parent or spouse is drunk doesn't think they're abused because they know lots of people who get black eyes with no alcohol is involved.

[@tonino7919]

I guess I haven’t heard the same interviews you’ve listened to. The one’s I heard have had very good lives.

[@larrywilliams5490]

I was listening to how fast she was talking and pouring her heart out like a flowing river.People want to know that someone cares about them and their life is important.I am amazed that she graduated High School early and then went on to Nursing School and worked at a hospital.She articulates very well and expresses herself well even though she has been through a lot.I believe in redemption and pray that Ashlyns life will make a dramatic change for the better and she will get to experience happiness and love.

[@michelleenriquez7810]

Yes, you said that so well and I agree that!! I also hope and Pray that she becomes someone that she herself can be very proud of!

[@michelleenriquez7810]

@larry williams

[@evelyntokamp1011]

@Larry Williams - Dream on ;)

[@jamallabarge2665]

When people I have never met act like they care about me I get suspicious, Larry. I wonder what they want from me. People I know will listen. Her first big step would to stop using. A lot of people view drug abusers as something to use, not something to love and trust.

[@88napolitano]

That's so fucking Beautiful! I hope she does too!!

[@fatheremmons85]

There are some days when i feel like life just sucks. Then I watch video's like this and realize just how good of a life I have.

[@amaraland1]

So true. We don't realize what we have.

[@liliteqiero6487]

Literally i will never comaplain anymore

[@carmagurl317]

I appreciate your willingness to rethink gratitude and perspective, but at the same time life does suck! For everyone- because we have no choice to exist, then suddenly we're thrown into this crazy thing called life and left to figure it out. Sometimes it sucks, sometimes it's beautiful. No sense in discounting those feelings. We're all just doing the best we can. :)

[@sammylove14]

I so totally agree with you!

[@uthmanibn-jafar1159]

I suppose the milkshake is always taller on the other side.

[@joechalmers8428]

I have been in Baltimore my entire life. One thing I love about this channel is it really shows that poor people in the mountains and poor people in the hood are not so different after all.

[@Donte821]

They grow up in similar circumstances

[@edwardrodriguez9140]

If you richly think, you become rich, if poorly think poor, you become poor, therefore, your thoughts is the master of your own life.”--Lord Robin

[@SidEWindER.L.A.H.B.]

We all are one in the same and alot alike once the barrier gets broken and people just talk to eachother and hear the next person out

[@KK-mm8ms]

THANK YOU for acknowledging this! No disrespect intended but I worked in the inner city and the urban poor...city people don't know what poor is. Poor without all the resources...poor without clean city water, poor without wealthy churches, food banks, jobs.... you are very kind to see this.

[@KK-mm8ms]

@Donte821 I respectfully disagree. There are similar experiences due to what they are subjected to (drugs) but no...poor city people can't imagine the poverty...

[@unknown-zf4lt]

Anyone else noticing how physically beautiful this girl is? If she had one quarter the pampering of any kardashian girl....sitting there with bad teeth, no makeup at all, bad maneurisms and still her natural beauty is stunning.

[@chelseadonae8601]

I couldn’t agree more!! I hope she knows she’s lovely!

[@deniseblackburn33]

Yesssssss

[@ianinnes8063]

I totally agree with you shes gorgeous she has natural beauty . Dosent need makeup .

[@tammyhagger1460]

Beautiful 💕 young lady with natural strength

[@Iheart2cook]

I was thinking the same thing.

[@mandirhodesmusic]

Growing up with a mentally ill abusive drug addicted parent myself i know how hard those trauma bonds in abusive families are to break, especially here in the south where loyalty and respect to your elders means everything.I just want to give this girl a hug.Not a single bit of hate or judgement here....just empathy and love.I'd rather sit and listen to someone like her than royalty,these people appreciate having the chance to speak and be heard. In the south we love to communicate but we are taught from birth to keep quiet about anything that hurts us or brings shame,especially to our elders. Thank you for these videos.

[@Daniellex1818]

I love her honesty .... there’s something really cool about people who tell their truth. The good, the bad, the ugly and traumatic. Hope things improve for her ❤️

[@Daniellex1818]

@@007nadineL lol no one ever knows for sure if someone is telling lies or not ... but why say so many horrible things that paint you in such a negative light if they aren’t the truth ? Doubt she just made that story up .... but there’s always gonna be a skeptic

[@drownthepoor]

@@Daniellex1818 I'd be willing to bet you that even despite her seeming to be telling the truth here that even this version of her and her life is through her own rosey red glasses. I don't say this because I want you to think badly of her. But I've known damaged girls like her, and the fact that they have that little bit of charm(or a lot of charm in other cases) that's their hook into people lives where they can wreak havoc with absolutely no sense of responsibility. They can do things that are hard to call anything but evil, and it's never their fault because they're a victim.

[@laurendeaves376]

There is only TRUTH not hers or yours or mine

[@Daniellex1818]

@@laurendeaves376 what does that mean ? No one is capable of truth or honesty ?

[@laurendeaves376]

@@Daniellex1818 it means truth is universal, we don’t have seperate truths, different perceptions but not your truth or mine, there is only truth

[@kevinrby1982]

That absolutely broke my heart. If you read this Ashlyn, know that someone is praying for you, and know that if you look, you will find the confidence that you need to have a rich and rewarding life, surrounded by those who can profess love in the same deep way that you clearly do.

[@pattih7]

Only through Christ, can anyone be changed permanently. Pray that she would turn to Him. 🙏🧡

[@Craiglyhead]

I drive a truck all day and search for new content to have for my brain to graze on. I landed on SWU as the algorithms playlist dictated then after the first video played became an addict. This is one of the best open based interview forums I’ve ever had the pleasure to drive to. In every single interview the human element and their particular situation on this floating blue rock comes into your face and into head. Hearing and thinking is good. Understanding others is great. Having cross sections of culture expose itself in a comfortable talk is amazing. Love your work.

[@bamabelleasmr1365]

I’d love for you to interview native Americans on reservations.

[@thesteamingbean.]

yes, I was thinking the same thing.

[@rabbitterrain]

Absolutely!

[@greysoul8109]

*Yes*

[@chucklebutt4470]

I would also like to see that.

[@kelb6073]

He did interview a few native americans

[@RMO582]

“It’s not really the life that you live - it’s the life you choose for yourself.” That hit like a punch to the gut. I see a sparkle in this young woman’s eyes…she’s still in there, somewhere. The CNA, the woman with goals, the hope for a better life. God, how I hope she finds her way back for she and her children. She is beautiful.

[@fredmarzillier750]

I was thinking the same thing. She just needs to get off the prescription pills, but I think that's harder than any illegal drug, they just don't talk about it

[@SisterInChrist-Chrissy]

Agreed. Such a kind hearted soul she is.. even through all she's been through! I pray for her healing and love that was never properly given to her. Shame on this world flooding our areas with drugs to tear apart the family unit. These stories break my heart into a million pieces.. every single one! God Bless you Mark Laita for shining the light on this epidemic the way you do. So people can see the consequences and hopefully do better within their own families.. that's where the repairing begins.. at home.. with love❣️💕

[@laurendeaves376]

Yet she is damning her kids to her life by leaving them with her mother who was more a pimp than parent. Nothing beautiful or profound just visiting her bad parenting skills on her kids. I gave up a child because I couldn’t be the mother he needed or wanted. And that killed me but his successes makes me know I did what was necessary with what I had

[@donniefleming9914]

"It ain't the life you choose,it's the life you live"....What You Give-Tesla

[@belindalafontaine300]

She's certainly intelligent

[@brighl09]

I resonate with this story so much considering my own Appalachian raising. I don’t know how I survived without going under at times. I am so blessed to have an education and better socioeconomic hope now. Life in Appalachian poverty is grueling, tiring, and will test your very will.

[@gilakaplan5750]

Be blessed

[@jamielancaster01]

Speaking about her mother: “I wasn’t born to be her sacrifice for her own fuck ups”! That’s a powerful statement.

[@ParkvilleLuminary]

Nice catch...I found that a very compelling statement.

[@karll977]

She’s right

[@stopthephilosophicalzombie9017]

All unwanted children are sacrifices on the altar of irresponsibility.

[@Kerrviii]

I hate to see her repeat the same thing with her kids. I hope she can clean up her act.

[@ariasworld9991]

@@Kerrviii unfortunately she can't 😔😥 so sad

[@choward5430]

Dear Interviewer, Your interviews are riveting. They changed me. Seriously, there are so many people, me included with deep-rooted pain. Most of us just deal with it by ignoring it and living as best we can. The truth in each video is actually therapeutic to me. So thank you!

[@goughaway52]

I agree. I love his videos. He treats everyone with respect and he has such a talent with getting people to open up. Love it!

[@drownthepoor]

@@goughaway52 Your screen name is clever. At first I thought it was Gouge Away like the Pixies song, but maybe it's a play on Vincent Van Gough? Either way, great artists.

[@sadiepagan9077]

It kills me when they say how bad their parents where to them, turn around and let them raise their kids.

[@Spoonwranglerz]

Bad parents is a common theme of these videos. The real privilege anyone is born with his the privilege of having loving parents. Not their skin color, not where they came from.

[@katiesandin7905]

Same. Sad to see.

[@ginar.4881]

It's that awful cycle of what they know. Its heartbreaking.

[@briancamorris]

yes!

[@pamelamorris3148]

I don’t believe a word out of the mouth of any person who claims how bad the mother or father was, and then turn around and hand their kids over to those same people. It doesn’t add up, at all.

[@iKhanic311]

I am so proud of her for acknowledging her feelings so that she doesn’t hurt her children. Wow. My heart breaks for her.

[@nikkira78]

I wish we could help her somehow. My heart goes out to her. She has severe PTS and a nervous disorder and yet she is so open and honest about her story. I respect that so much.

[@southernbelle193]

That’s not a nervous disorder, that’s the drugs she is currently taking.

[@pm2886]

"Nervous disorder"? You can't be that naive.

[@joez3706]

Classic crystal meth movements

[@roddas26]

Crystal Meth is a hell of drug.

[@drownthepoor]

@@pm2886 Lots of people are naive because they've never known people who did drugs. Or even worse, they have known those people but weren't able to tell they did drugs which is a far more dangerous place to be lol.

[@theenchantedgyspy3657]

It breaks my heart that she identifies becoming mature with doing sex work for her own drug habit rather than her mothers 💔 She has no clue how beautiful she truly is and how much value she really does have in this world.

[@Shusha0029]

I was raised in Eastern Kentucky. Thank God my father had enough sense to move us outta there. No jobs except for the coal mines. He packed us up and moved us to Georgia until we were adults then we all moved to North Carolina. We had such a better life because of what he did. No telling what would have happened to us if he hadn't. I will forever be grateful for him.

[@michaelmcanally2406]

I also had a very strong grounded father. I wouldn't be the man i am today without him

[@kaywaters7]

Good for your Dad! So happy for you!

[@butterfly-kb4cn]

I was born in NE Ky. Same kind of story but unfortunately my father and mother brought their generational trauma and generational curses wit us to tx. You can run but you can’t hide. Don’t get me wrong I love my parents and know they tried very hard to better themselves and our lives the best they knew how to. I do believe my life would have been worse if they hadn’t left.

[@christysivley]

This young lady needs to realize how amazing her accomplishments til now really are, just so she's able to realize she still has every opportunity to finish her nursing career and that she could still be a great mom. She's already overcome soooooooo much under some of the absolute worst circumstances, so she can absolutely make a comeback and be the person she always wanted to be. I'm hoping and praying she makes a turn around and a comeback. She deserves it and so do her babies.

[@illsoyung111]

This chick is very smart and down to earth. It's not her fault she was raised that way. I hope this woman gets treated better. Somehow, someway.

[@kakel536]

I agree... She looks like she could be a doctor or in a similar career, if she had grown up in a very different setting. Bless her heart!

[@brad4110]

I couldn't agree more. You are a product of your environment.

[@kaylacarpenter272]

@@kakel536 Looks like a doctor? Lmfaoo. You think doctors have certain features? You trying to say that she doesn't look totally inbred, like most Appalachians?

[@db9518]

College doesn't make you smart. Life makes you smart!

[@PNW_Sportbike_Life]

@@kaylacarpenter272 I was thinking the same thing; be realistic!

[@stppearson825]

She deserves to give herself more credit. She’s done the best she can with what she has been given. I hope she finds a healthy sense of contentment someday.

[@sylvia106]

Ashlyn is beautiful as she is, authentic, compassionate, intelligent. And broken but not beyond getting better. I wish her the best.

[@roachums123]

I've watched a couple of these videos now, and the generational trauma that these people have endured is mind-boggling. I hope this young woman can find peace and stability. Heart-breaking.

[@youtubernaz1scensoredbythe201]

She is very articulated, and intelligent. I can't imagine the woman she would be, if she had a different childhood, and a mother that knew how to be a mother. Breaks my heart to see this. I am praying for the right people to come into her life.

[@susiex9151]

I worry and fear about her son who is with the abusive mother hopefully someone will see this and the child can be protected

[@2012e-u2x]

She's Had child services come to the house, no drug test and they live in filth. Social services is a joke and let them keep the kids in danger

[@namelessd3569]

@@2012e-u2x do you know them? just curious

[@namelessd3569]

@@2012e-u2x do you know them? just curious

[@namelessd3569]

@@2012e-u2x do you know them? just curious

[@laceyjade9834]

Nobody protected her. Nobody’s protecting them. It’s a vicious cycle of abuse. I’m not sure who you think is going to protect them? Not social services... They’re a joke... Everyone there is walking around with unprocessed trauma so it’s definitely not gonna be friends or family.

[@maryhansen4407]

My heart goes out to Ashlyn. It's a hard life she's led, but it sounds like she is still trying to muddle through it. I hope she finds contentment and happiness. She deserves some of each.

[@dustywilson5461]

She's a beautiful woman, inside and out. Very resilient, intelligent, and a big compassionate heart. Wiishing her the best of luck.

[@ShadowAussie]

"I'm too young to you know look after my kids" what a load of shit. Not too young to make kids or sell your body though. And you're saying how great she is....how many women have you paid for in your time?.......

[@dawnglessner7432]

Ashlyn has so much insight into who she is, where she has come from and she is so brave trying to give her children a better life.

[@3peeks776]

I wish she had the help most of us receive by at least one person in our lives. She never had that person to help steer or guide her in the right direction... It’s amazing she graduated high school, became a nursing assistant, and then gained her LPN certification. She deserves a huge pat on the back for those accomplishments. Everyone makes mistakes in life but the determination this girl has, despite the cards she’s been dealt, if anyone deserves a break, it’s her. 🙏

[@littbitterst2328]

Ashlyn...I admire your courage for speaking on your regrets about your kids...I can promise you SOOO many moms can relate to you and even more moms feel a little less alone and maybe even encouraged to get help for themselves and their kids ... I hope you reach your goals and your kids are always safe and loved. You have so much potential...may you live up to it, live the life you deserve, and be able to show those babies what is possible. ♡♡♡

[@amyleelee84]

This beautiful young woman, the fact that she became an LPN and her whole life affected by the pain pill epidemic 😢I pray she finds peace & some kind of joy in this life.

[@ednaerickson5653]

She was a victim and people made fun of her and no one did anything about it . that’s wrong. Her school should Have reported the abuse to child services. A lot of people failed her.

[@taylorlee3044]

Yep

[@blackcitroenlove]

That's the culture of the region though. The best thing to do is to bring these children out of the region for a better life. There's nothing there left.

[@smidgeonofagangsta]

@@blackcitroenlove that's not true for all or even most of southern Appalachia! I LOVE living in the mountains of Western North Carolina. There are plenty of hard working and successful people here. Quite a few very wealthy and well known people have huge, expensive vacation homes here and people from urban cities are buying up all the available (which is not much) real estate as soon as it's available because it's safe and quiet here and most people are polite and courteous.

[@dylanthomas9761]

@@smidgeonofagangsta doesn't work for everyone. Everyone is not included

[@timkayjr2958]

People wouldn't listen if she wasnt wearing a mask. PRIORITIES

[@trailrunner919]

You can tell she's a good person with a beautiful heart trapped in bad circumstances that stems from her childhood and the horrible abuse from her so called mother..

[@patrickfleming253]

How can you tell? Do you know her? Has she done anything of note?

[@ronniebababooe7584]

@@patrickfleming253 The junkie shuffle she is doing all interview is a good indication she is a good person...

[@crystalzacarias1829]

This was her Mom 30 years ago.

[@ItsFreshItsAnne]

@@ronniebababooe7584 Damn dude, you're cold. Having a hard time with drugs doesn't make someone a bad person. I hope you never have to experience such judgement in your life.

[@betsybabf748]

There is absolutely no valid was to tell if a person is a good or bad person from a few minutes of seeing them on a screen, saying a couple of things they choose to want you to hear, in an edited video. You know absolutely nothing about this person except that is she currently high at this taping. You have no idea her morals, intentions, personality, etc. from the information to which you have access.

[@lynchpinlaze]

She's so intelligent and watchable, I hope you interview her again and again

[@emilyincasper4434]

I couldn’t imagine going to jail when I have a 3 month old baby and getting out when they are 18 months. How awful. This gal has such a sweet disposition and personality. All my hugs go to her

[@elizabethfrederick2434]

I feel this woman was so neglected and abused that she stopped maturing and developing. A child stuck in a womans body.Her family ruined her.

[@aliciaparsons9177]

That is what they say the day you first engage in alcohol or drugs is the age you stop maturing, add trauma to that and she is trapped in that age.

[@mrbee145]

Please ! Well that would make me the most successful 12 yr old in the world . With businesses , employees , military , college degree, kids .....

[@rudyruiz9521]

@@mrbee145 I've seen it myself many times. A few successes don't make up for 1000s of failures.

[@Daisy-zr3qm]

Well shit, guess i really am 14 and that’s why my therapist refers to my behavior as “normal in children” 🤷🏻‍♀️ Lol sucks

[@taco2947]

This video is more a video of someone who had a horrible upbringing than an Appalachian woman.

[@jcsigma]

These videos exemplify the frailty of our humanity and should build bridges across racial and cultural barriers.

[@depletable]

You have one side that feigns a level of compassion that neglects to mention their responsibility - saying they should be taken care of by the government, etc. You also have one side that has zero compassion and thinks they're helpless. But they are human, and while both of those concepts have elements of truth, people aren't very good at speaking on the nuance of these situations. I think we should have compassion for these people in a way that allows us to understand how they got caught up, and we should teach ourselves (and them if we're able to) how to NOT be in a realistic sense and not a judgemental one, so we don't end up like them (and to help them if possible).

[@GaiusCaesarAugustusGermanicus.]

@@depletable "how they got caught up" and "so we don't end up like them"... Some of these people haven't made bad choices in life that put them in crappy situations. Some are born into rough environments and live a rough life because it's all that they know. Then their are individuals that were born into rough environments but we're able to figure out that what they are experiencing in life isn't right so they seek help or guidance from anyone or any institution that will listen or give a damn but their cries for help go unnoticed until it's too late. In short, living a rough life wasn't a choice or bad decision! It's what was dealt to them at the earliest stage of life!

[@depletable]

@@GaiusCaesarAugustusGermanicus. We easily delve into a philosophical conservation about responsibility and existentialism. You may even get into a conversation about genetics or IQ. I have heard plenty of stories of people in the most horrible beginnings making choices that pull them from that place. Other than that, you learn the ethical and moral responsibility their parents had, and learn from that. Even if someone was born in that situation, and never made a good choice because of it (which is what you are suggesting - that they are and were totally incapable, so they somehow have no responsibility) you can still learn from their literal actions, so that you can understand the domino effects, and help yourself and others with that information.

[@pinkpugginz]

@@depletable dude shut up

[@depletable]

@@pinkpugginz Whatever you say, Stupid.

[@karenkingrey6142]

I cannot believe HBO or some other premium channel has not scooped this channel up. The interviews would make incredible television. (And, you might get paid for all of your hard work!)

[@kham6006]

Why do you think Netflix, HBO . Msm don’t show these videos,addicts etc -you think they want to show what most democrat run cities look like -skid row -San Francisco-go watch what’s happening In Kensington in Phillie - sickening- it’s all about climate change and white supremacy- sadly nobody cares about addicts - don’t forget this women has white privilege -

[@kham6006]

Not sure why they put a line in the part that says how horrible democrat run cities are

[@Scarlettsalexhi]

Lol this is “democratic” censoring at its finest

[@flippergibbit]

This interview is literally in a conservative county in Kentucky lmao

[@michaelpreciado4640]

@@kham6006 This is trailer trash territory. This is all in the south, those states cant even pay their fucking bills without those "democrat run" cities taxes.

[@jamesmontalvo5026]

Man it broke my heart when she said her kids were well taken care, and one of them lives with her mom.😳 the same mom who pumped her out at 13? Dang, and she is still abusive? Man. The generational trauma is real. Hope she finds peace, and those kids really are ok.

[@pauliedibbs9028]

Good catch.... well, I mean.. Bah!

[@allstopblue5717]

Yeah, not good.

[@johnnygeorgopoulos4072]

Yeah that caught me too....I was like wait, your mother pimped you out when you were a F'ing child, and you left your child with your pimp abusive mother claiming "they're well taken care of"?? 🙄

[@Ms.drake9948]

That's exactly right. One thing I noticed is she speaks out of both sides of her mouth. However, I'm not sure if her mother is as questionable as she once was.

[@aftrlif]

My instant thought

[@sj122s]

These videos should be a required course in high school...

[@alfy234]

Yes don’t do drugs kids

[@Calverts399]

More like middle school. Kids are on drugs by high school.

[@bshadrock1]

I agree

[@sj122s]

@@Calverts399 Yes, I agree middle school would be better...

[@User-v7i5i]

Would not be effective.

[@JuanWick209bkaAngel]

Very intelligent, articulate and self aware. All this sweet woman needs is a chance and a way out.

[@janpieterszooncoen2550]

Keep the Appalachian content coming! So interesting to learn about these people.

[@lifesso]

Hoorn in huis

[@josephjakubec3171]

Yes, the California stuff is crap. All con people there.

[@sandyc1212]

Sooo sad the government has just forgotten about these people....for not having running water, electricity etc for so long...now just send them checks and that should suffice 😢

[@kaylasprettynails2848]

@@sandyc1212 I'm in southern WV and we all mostly do have water and power just like everyone else. And we're not all products of incest either. There are plenty of very educated, well to do people in appalachia. Don't let society fool you 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@TheMechanicj]

@@kaylasprettynails2848 amen I from the hills in East Tennessee college educated small house in the woods dirt road still got a outhouse me and the wife make pushing 100k and it ain’t from prostitution and drug dealing lol

[@davesykes1966]

I've been watching your channel for a while and one thing I learned is that humans can normalize pretty much everything that happens to them. We are survivors. Everyone is awesome, everyone is a treasure and every one is fucked up. C'est la fucking vie I guess ! Thanks for making these videos and you couldn't have found a better name for your channel. Keep it up.

[@mrjohnson4790]

It takes a strong woman to admit she's not the mother that her kids needs 🙏🙏🙏

[@dianelove8147]

Best comment ever

[@sammylove14]

This is a very good point because that’s usually the last thing one wants to admit. She is trying not to repeat the cycle of abuse that she realizes is the only thing she knows.

[@onecraftybadger3847]

I would agree, except for that she lets her 6 year old live with the parent that abused her for her entire life. She needs to step up and protect them from the same life that she had.

[@mattbraley534]

I’m not talking about this woman but really it takes a strong parent to be what their kids need

[@brad0805]

@@onecraftybadger3847 Exactly my thoughts!

[@nwbeautyguru]

She’s just so naturally beautiful.

[@shotgun88deadlift]

she really is

[@CurzeDesigns]

Why lie?

[@jonoliver2297]

that hair

[@arobajacobo505]

Just like rosie o'donnell

[@dv8.mp4]

She’s average.

[@MayorofNumber3]

Pisses me off hearing that a six year old is independent. He’s not. He’s neglected and trying to survive.

[@dawnatilla]

It's a way of describing a human personality at any age. I really don't think she meant that he was financially independent or was living on his own!

[@fifilamoore1718]

@@dawnatilla John has put in words is 100% right, your comment is just ridiculous , as is the next . I feel for mark that must be so hard to hear being there , SAD 😞

[@ultimately-sabrina]

So sad

[@the_koo3151]

Kids aren’t independent, they learn to be independent before they should, and carry that with them throughout their entire life, with most never understanding why they are the way they are, or why when they are in their 20s and 30s and act like children. I’ve seen both; children who were taken care of their entire childhood and become amazing adults, and children who were born and let wild, and hit their teens and then into their 20s and 30s and go buck wild, making up for lost childhood

[@MayorofNumber3]

@@the_koo3151 you started off saying what I was getting at but then got off track. Every child and their upbringing and situation is different. Everyone’s path is different but at 6 years old not one person on this earth is independent in any way, shape, or form. If you think otherwise then you are a guilty enabler.

[@Dr.KarenJordison2820]

My heart broke hearing her. She never got a chance , not a break in life. With education this girl could be going places. She's smart she just needs a hand up. GOD Bless her.

[@susanvotroubek7440]

Such a sweet soul. She is so smart and could be anything she wanted to be. No money, poverty, bad parents, so many strikes against her. Life can be so hard.....you have the sweetest soul. In another life with advantages you would be so successful. So proud that you got a nursing degree , please try and get back into life again. You have so much to give.

[@willhenderson229]

Her realizing and understanding her social and addiction problems is remarkable.

[@fifilamoore1718]

Ashley looks just like her mum that you interviewed from a week ago, Rona , their stories match up I can’t image how heart breaking this story was to film. From the amazing Ruby who played and sang “ Amazing grace” every nite before bed , To this story who are all born beautiful innocent souls that just got handed down a different life experience, IF it wasn’t for Marks work which will be history making I wouldn’t of ever known just how many others are dealt a rough deal. It makes me wonder, that could of been me , why am I so blessed.?

[@jacemom02091]

Where is that video ?

[@fifilamoore1718]

@@jacemom02091 Is that a request or demand ? All the people interviewed on here with such sad stories still know the very three simple words that are called manners and get you far is life , Please, thank-You , excuse me Your title implies your a Mum , sad world when you can have children yet not know simple mannners Search for its , it’s not hard , and YOUR WELCOME 🙏

[@jacemom02091]

@@fifilamoore1718 Um you need to relax , you typed all that to say what? Obviously I did search and the video isn’t there. It’s obvious you’re a very delusional person so the video obvious doesn’t exist. Get a life, please 🙏🏾 be blessed

[@fifilamoore1718]

@@jacemom02091 you have no manners that’s my msg ,

[@jacemom02091]

@@fifilamoore1718 fuck off. There’s your manners

[@Shhhmile]

2:33 "So I remember being, 13, 14 years old, a young adult." Here we are in the year 2023 with the Internet reaching the Appalachian people yet the old ways still dominate. Fleeting childhood to long enduring adulthood with nothing in between. Graduated age 15 with a love of nursing and if she had a family to sponsor her in a state far away she could now be a nurse practitioner. My heart breaks for what could have been.

[@ShadowAussie]

She literally said she's too young to look after the children she was old enough to make. She's fing 30yrs old ffs. Not some 16yr old anymore.

[@lauraslocumb257]

She’s mentally ill and a drug addict. How could she be a good mother? She was prostituted by her own mother just before she reached puberty. I admire her for knowing she can’t raise her children yet. She has no support system. She was once intelligent enough to graduate high a school at 15, and become an LPN. Drug addiction took all that away from her. Where are all the treatment centers for people like her that were supposed to be built with the drug lawsuit settlements????

[@HoodFavorite-jy9bg]

Wow I literally just commented like the same thing before I saw this! It’s really sad but she does speak with knowledge which blows my mind especially compared to addicts in the hood

[@dniemi150]

Thanks for sharing these videos, it's so rare that someone shows the humanity without judgement

[@hollywoodartchick9740]

Much love to you, Ashlyn! Thanks for talking to us about your experiences. Just the way you understood that you are not "crazy" to remember what your mom wanted you to forget, you are not trapped in your fear of change. There are people who can help and support you if you want to try new ways of living. You do have a big heart. Someone is going to value that.

[@jaimelovemac88]

My 14 year old was born with pyloric stenosis too. He almost died before we figured out what was going on. It was hell on earth. He was throwing up nonstop and he suffered so so much. Thank God he's a perfectly healthy growing boy/young man now and is the very best thing that's ever happened to me. 💚💛💛💛💛💛💚💛

[@sammylove14]

I didn’t hear her talk about pyloric stenosis- was it in the beginning?

[@florairvan3395]

Her poor son!! like an afterthought..

[@irairod5160]

@@sammylove14 When she spoke about taking the baby to the ER 8 different times because he wouldn't stop crying and throwing up...

[@consciousevolution6575]

What a well spoken and emotionally intelligent woman! She so clearly speaks on what she feels and is honest and open, a rare trait to have. Ashlyn, don't fear change! With a personality and attitude like your you can achieve big things.

[@donnabittner69]

Emotionally intelligent people don't give their kids away to their abusive mother 😢

[@kimle190]

Poor children. Her mother sold her, was abusive to her and still is, yet she trust her with her son.

[@sayrahmarie501]

Yeah her mom is down below commenting and talking shit! Shonda Gibson 👇🏼👇🏼👇🏼

[@kimle190]

@@sayrahmarie501 wow; disgusting. That just makes me worry about her son even more.

[@jeanakatherine9369]

@@sayrahmarie501 Is her mom the lady Shonda that he interviewed? I haven’t watched it but it’s coming up in the recommended

[@sayrahmarie501]

@@jeanakatherine9369 yes, that’s her

[@notjordinary]

That’s exactly what I just said to myself!!!!

[@MPWEST83]

This girl is so beautiful. My heart bleeds for her and what shes been through.. she's a strong lady..

[@BarneeFife]

The breakdown of the family structure has me as depressed AF… without it the future is bleak. This girl has a beautiful heart and soul. It seems like she’s going to waste, yet she’s right there for the saving, with the right help.

[@shannonray4012]

She graduated early from high school, she has opportunities to better her life . She is still young

[@skully0078]

Ashlyn is certainly stronger than she realizes. Great lesson: It's not about the life you live, it's about the life you choose for yourself. I paraphrased what she said but I've taken it to heart, whole-heartedly. Thanks Mark for putting amazing people into our views and hearts. Cheers

[@georgiespillman4638]

so proud in her ability to know when she is and when she's not fit to be a mother. Takes strength to admit that. Hope she's doing ok and getting all the help she needs

[@domimakeup]

I hope someone checks on her son that is with her horrible mother. This is tragic as hell.

[@sheristonestreet3904]

That was my thought as well! That woman does not need another child to ruin.

[@dluelmo]

I had the same thought. There is a market for young boys. If a mother has no issues pimping out her own daughter, I fear she has little reservations about doing the same to her grandson. I hope I'm wrong. There is so much going on here. Abuse, addiction, neglect.

[@npg68]

@@dluelmo it's all intergenerational abuse - I think this girl is trying hard to break the cycle with the limited resources she has. She's not dumb - she has insight and I think she has moments of clarity but the clarity must seem like the wall of a tidal wave. It's tragic.

[@pyro1209]

She is so smart & so well spoken but also obviously high. I hope she grabs those goals & never lets go.

[@Neon-jn3sp]

Her going "GIT!" to whatever animal walked by cracked me tf up

[@LittleWhoo]

Me too!

[@daddgran2318]

my heart breaks for this girl. my childhood was no cake walk,it def caused alot of issues today but i cant help but feel for her

[@shonaharris9328]

I feel like Ashlyn sabotaged herself when she started working at the nursing home. She spoke about doing CNA work and working on licensing to be a nurse, but then became hooked on pain meds. It is not unusual for a victim of abuse to sabotage themselves and repeat the same pattern. Ashlyn seems like a strong and caring young woman and she seems to care enough about her kids and aware how her abusive mom affected her enough to leave her kids with people who could take care of them. I hope she’s doing all right right now.

[@tihspidtherekciltilc5469]

I know all about sabotaging myself. I did use my 16 months in prison as a tool though and have 10 years clean now after 20 years of riding a rollercoaster I could never get off.

[@Chahlie]

I would say that her childhood conditioned her to be a failure, as to be a success goes against their rules.

[@AsherCaster]

She definitely self sabatoged... the question is around the relative level of consciousness she had of it happening... to what degree did she see pills sitting and have that survival switch of stealing something valuable and snatching it vs she got scared of this new path and decided it was too much to bear.

[@KindredGh0st]

It blows me away that she was a lvn. I'm 43 and just graduated a BSN program and it was one of the hardest things I've ever done in my life academically. I'm blown away she was able to achieve that through the childhood trauma she experienced.

[@Schulz1362]

@@KindredGh0st she doesn't even know what a LPN is, do you honestly believe she was one?

[@FrancescaReviews]

6 years old is the man of the house...that breaks my heart

[@zima627]

My biological mother was in a similar situation and got pregnant at 16. Thankfully she had the maturity and foresight to not only realize she nor her family would have been a good family for me, she put me up for adoption. I was adopted by an amazing family and I am a very successful person now. I love people and animals. I love to help others and be good in society. There's no shame in saying "I can't raise this baby" and putting them up for the adoption. I think that's the most selfless and beautiful thing someone can do for their child if they themselves can't take care of them. This woman was pimped by her own mother and then let that same mother watch her own children?? No thank you. Those kids could have been adopted into loving families. I know there are horror stories of people getting adopted by other crazy families. I've never experienced this. I know a lot of adopted people and they also ended up with amazing families.

[@anaromello]

I think mothers in the US can pick the families they send their children to through adoption agencies? I know some do that which seems like a great idea.

[@jessicablank6470]

Thank you for speaking up! I have more respect for the mother and father who allow their child to be adopted, then those who put their child through hell or disadvantage them from the start by trying to raise them in a bad situation.

[@TaurusWitch29]

I was adopted along with my two brothers at 6 months old, and was a crack baby and sold for drug money as a baby. My real mother knew she wasn't cut out for motherhood and set us up for adoption. And it was the best thing she could have done for me. It didn't stop me from being abused again as a child and from turning to drugs as a teen and young adult, but I've been clean for over 12 years and have been to therapy and know in my heart that it would be a lot worse if I didn't get adopted. I probably wouldn't be alive. We were left alone for days and starving, at under 6 months, 18 months, and 4. My oldest brother was found in a dark alley in the middle of the night searching the garbage cans for food, and they came in and found us. There were police reports of my real mother trying to sell me for drug money outside of a CVS twice but left before the cops could find her. My adopted mother is amazing and she is the reason I'm alive and not addicted to something wasting away. She does everything she can for me and loves me like I'm her own, so much so that we forget that we're adopted sometimes. I didn't have a perfect childhood, but I had a mother who tried to protect me from the things that were dangerous and I appreciate her more and more as I get older. I'm 36 now and she's my best friend. I had knee surgeries from ballet hurting my knees and I got addicted to pain pills and then heroin, and took suboxone for years. I was abused by my adoptive father until I was 12 but I got away from him with my mom and siblings when they divorced, but I didn't tell her until he passed away because she would have killed him. But I've been in therapy since I was 24 and this is the best I've ever felt, all because of my adoptive mother. She made it possible for me to have my own life with no shame and help me work through all this childhood abuse and is the best. I just straight up went in 😂 I'm from eastern Kentucky so this girl talking about her abusive mom and then sending her child to that same mom upset me a bit. I'd never send my child to my dad's when I know what he did. Absolutely not.

[@danifradella505]

A lot of respect to her knowing her limitations and the threat of history repeating itself then taking the action to ensure her children are safe and secure from physically walking away from her baby when he was in a safe place and she realized she was hurting him to understanding the emotional turmoil that might present if she's in and out of their lives. I hope she can get to the place where she is really there for them in the way it seems like she desires to be.

[@darcigarner4581]

"I wasn't born to be her (mother's) sacrifice for her own fuck ups." I felt that 💔

[@suzymarshall4898]

This girl basically got shit on starting out in life. I wish her well and I hope she can get it all figured out.

[@dianewilkins4418]

This is what a survivor looks like 🌹

[@minigirl6379]

I really like this girl. She's had it rough, but she's got potential. I hope she finishes her medical training and turns her life around. She has a lot to offer the world and herself.

[@joshipp761]

Looks like she needs to go to rehab for substance abuse, & mental health. She does have a lot of potential,

[@PNW_Sportbike_Life]

Be realistic; she has virtually no potential

[@josefina5421]

How can you not like her!? Healing and love ❤️ to Ashlyn

[@brooketetley246]

No chance

[@tjlovesrachel]

@@josefina5421 it’s not about liking her… it’s about being realistic…. The odds aren’t in her favor

[@jpc3603]

What an extremely eloquent woman who has insight into her situation and her self. I don't think being pimped as a child sets you up in any way shape or form so it's actually quite miraculous she is able to make so much sense out of her set of circumstances. I hope she goes from strength to strength and this video is (imo) something her children can be proud of.

[@rebeccarainn4253]

I love all your stories about the Appalachians. I know this life all to well. I lived it just as they have. Although I don’t live in Va anymore, I only live 45 minutes away in Tennessee. I’m so thankful I left the life I had. I still have family who lives there so I do visit, but very rarely. You should definitely visit Lee County Va & interview some people. The stories that could be told.. Thank you for all you do.

[@toofus1523]

Great interview - it amazing how the people who are interviewed really need to talk and tell their stories. . Way too much to unpack in this woman's life - it is hard to believe she even made it through all of what she has had to deal with. I'm left worrying about her kids (and her). Hopefully her kids won't go through the cycle of abuse she went through. What would Appalachia be like if the drugs were removed ? Every single one of these stories revolves around how drugs and the lack of opportunity derail any sense of a stable life.

[@stephenbosch1084]

Your honesty makes you so beautiful even the circumstances of your survival are ugly. You are a queen with a good heart! ❤️

[@williamgallucci9913]

This women is so articulate and downright honest about her past and present situations both negative and positive mad respect

[@Juniper122]

I sincerely wish and pray for the best for every single person you interview. I appreciate their candor!

[@clairebrandau8425]

What's so infuriating to me is how SMART and CAPABLE Ashlyn is. She was just never given a real chance. This makes me so very grateful for my incredible privilege but simultaneously breaks my heart that so many others didn't have the same opportunities as I did simply because of the circumstances of their birth. On another note, I do love hearing the accent I grew up with. Folks think hillbilly means dumb. Well, just listen to Ashlyn and be educated.

[@erikb8979]

But there’s those who would have u believe that every white personal in America is privileged. Just not so. There are rich. Poor. Middle class all races. Poverty is the problem not race

[@anothervoice9578]

Wow, this young lady has every reason to be proud of herself. She's so smart, and full of thought. Amazing, after the start she got.

[@elconquistador98]

Did you say “proud of herself”?

[@heidegger101]

such a wonderful channel. always a reminder to me that we are all different - each of us has different burdens to bear and we need compassion for everyone

[@SteveL4]

I grew up in a town where you either end up a drug addict, a cop, or a burnout. Turned 18 and moved the hell out of there. Sometimes it takes a leap of faith, i hope she's able to get out soon.

[@tenillemcwatters3625]

I couldn't imagine leaving my child with the same person that did all those things to me when I was young....

[@blazefairchild465]

What is grandmom doing with her child ?

[@mkultra3194]

Right ? I lost a ton of respect for her when she said she loves her kids that's why she left them where they at. Like what??? That's probably the worst place for them

[@Nille0212]

There's no rhyme or reason when you're using. She THINKS it's for the best, but it's the last thing she should've done.

[@dmreddragon6]

She's probably like many people who don't realize that boys are as likely to be sexually abused, as girls.

[@Palliativcare]

P

[@shaunarchangel3872]

This young lady has been through alot . Hopefully she can heal from past issues , start a new life .

[@buffy5567]

It takes a lot of courage to share your story. Thank you for sharing.

[@wayne6066]

Such an honest woman to tell her story as she know's it.

[@Andrea-rs4wo]

This baby never had a chance so heartbreaking

[@Foxiepawstotti]

A very articulate, intelligent young lady and she is correct, if her fathers family dont see her it is very much their loss because this girl is a star in any setting. She is brimming over with personality and I am certain her own kids are very lucky to have such a bright, observant and together mom. I hope that 2022 brings you and your loved ones health, happiness and all you could wish for because you are a beacon shining human resilience and humour and you deserve all the good luck and happiness going. You keep on being you Ashlyn, you are truly a beautiful human being!

[@tessadrake824]

She's a really smart girl. Such a rough hand she was dealt, but she's done her best with it. I hope good things come to her and she has an easier time of it.

[@ten4k964]

i love the diversity of ur interviews

[@importantmancommenting9336]

It’s almost exclusively Appalachian people now haha

[@juandelacruz6467]

Starvin marvin.... is that you???!

[@ten4k964]

@@juandelacruz6467 Yea thats me

[@juandelacruz6467]

@@ten4k964 hahaha

[@jonbenoit333]

I could tell right off the bat that she's been up for a few days before she did this interview.

[@redtops5160]

meth? seems real fidgety.

[@PaulClay46masonWV]

She said she was an opiod addict, but appears to show signs of Meth use. Could be nervous, I guess

[@thegravescave4752]

I live in the mountains of southwest virginia I've been lucky enough to travel the world but there's no place I'd rather be than right here where I was born and raised. My great grandmother raised me and she passed away when I was 10 , I was pretty much on my own after that. I worked hard and made it out of the cycle. I feel sorry for these people on drugs I know quite a few that are bad on meth or pills. Some very close to me..

[@christmasmorning7685]

How did you make it on your own at 10?

[@kyledowning6108]

@@Randomhero3 u said something first

[@valover1750]

Southwest VA is beautiful! I go through there often and used to go to Wise to visit friends.

[@scarlettm86]

Well done on building a good life for yourself man

[@Alinez22]

I moved to northern va from Russia and the amount of weed and drugs I saw around me shocked me. But then I found these interviews and saw what real bad drug addiction looks like and how much trauma it causes 😪

[@latrinahornsby9648]

😭😭😭 can we get an update on her...please 🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@tumtum4023]

I’ve watched every one of these “Appalachian interviews “ ashlyn is my favorite! She has so much good in her.. I can see it in her eyes! I know she’s wild but, the goodness is there! I wish her the best of luck! 💪

[@mamo69mtz]

love your content mark you should do some native american interviews i think they have some amazing stories of growing up in reservations and the drug and alchohol use is thru the roof from what ive herd

[@katye02]

You forgot to mention the rape and abuse of their own women and gangs

[@EllipFlx]

Yesss i agree.. Thats a group of people my heart goes out to!!!

[@thematriarchy2075]

Check out Leland and Ernie's interviews. There are a few more interviews with natives, but i can't think of their names now.

[@clairelumiere2901]

Mark has done interviews with Native Americans and presumably will do more sometime. My suggestion is you can check out “Alcoholic Interview-Vern” and “Alcoholic Interview-Melvina”.

[@thematriarchy2075]

@@clairelumiere2901 Hi Claire! That's it. 💕✌🏼

[@kevomeredith6509]

Ashlyn is absolutely gorgeous. Its so sad that we waste so much time & energy on fake woke celebrities instead of trying to help young women like Ashlyn. I hope someone treats this woman like she deserves.

[@xw7239]

Check out the Christian Appalachian Project, they send missionaries and money to Appalachian communities.

[@anonconspicuous6910]

I agree. This woman is naturally very pretty. If she grew up in LA or NY she'd be a millionaire. Imagine if Bella Delphine grew up in West Virginia. Bella would look much more rough

[@EsmeraldaWolfsbane7777]

Woke 🤣 awesome

[@mollyv1172]

She left her kids with the same mother who pimped her out for drugs that she still needs. That’s just a little scary. This was such a heartfelt interview. I hope the babies are ok. I might have heard that wrong though.

[@galadrielwoods2332]

You didn't hear her wrong.

[@jessicablank6470]

That caught my attention, too. Disgusting and sad.

[@ELJ691]

The I left my babies to their nanny, my mother, to discipline them.

[@ELJ691]

😭