The Road Back-Brandon AKA "Smoke"

Soft White Underbelly interview and portrait of Brandon AKA "Smoke", a drug addict in Los Angeles.
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[@RLS11973]

I loved this video from the first minutes. Loved how he said he would like to be called Brandon but he would tell a story about Smoke.

[@pjrichards3974]

Congratulations on ur 30 days.Brandon. You will find more love in recovery than on drugs. Love and hugs from Texas.

[@whoevwhatev]

And from South Georgia 🇺🇸 🩵 💖

[@simonelfstrom]

. 3👍423№#

[@EricHairston-gp7lo]

Thank you Smoke

[@dinabogans7108]

Much success with your continued recovery Brandon!🥳

[@Brooklyn-lu5ke]

Tennessee loves you too, Brandon

[@jordanwood183]

I’m a certified addiction counselor and I think I’m going to incorporate pieces of this interview in my next group counseling session. This man reminds me of some of the guys on my caseload & I feel like it would benefit them to see/hear him.

[@Jivolt]

Keep it up, Brandon. We need a 60 day and 90 day update, also. You got this.

[@whoevwhatev]

We need to know soon as the podcast is up n running 👌 So we can subscribe

[@philthecook001]

You got this bro! Some times one second at a time but you will make it! Wish you all the best and stay strong.

[@technomickdocumentalist2495]

@@whoevwhatev Yeh deffo, can see that being well worth tuning into.💯🙏

[@ryanritschard7534]

We don't need an update... Just walk the walk... Talk the talk .. if you fall pick yourself up... You only fail if you don't learn from your mistakes and choose to stay down ✓

[@whoevwhatev]

Ummm. Naw. I’d love an update - we rally around our fellow humans 💕 every day of success COUNTS

[@nessygee7561]

Hearing the excitement in your voice about finally finishing something and your prospects are uplifting! I wish you all the best!!

[@vimfuego9738]

Brandon could read from a dictionary and still hold an audience spellbound with that voice. Good luck to you, Sir.

[@leahlandi143]

I know his voice is amazing he needs to be doing audio books or something bigger even 😊😊

[@ValeriSmith]

I agree. I love his voice!!

[@THEONLY7um]

​@@ValeriSmithshut your horny ass up

[@Lady_Leo8577]

I feel the same way about his voice, I'm listening to him in the background while Im working and putting my notes in

[@mikejabourian1593]

Great job Brandon

[@56Spookdog]

Brandon I’m happy for you and your life being drug free, may your recovery be a continuous success.

[@LeticiaDiaz-mw4kb]

I knew smoke. I ran the streets with smoke back in the day. Now I get to meet Brandon. So very proud of you more than you know. You and Tcutt, caycay and gates are really an inspiration for many people here in Amarillo.

[@Mwuah6o]

Brandon, I’m so proud of you. Thank you for being wise enough to get help when you did and brave enough to share your story. You’re breaking a generational curse, and that is hard work. Please keep us updated!

[@MsLibertyTX]

Loved this! Such a handsome man with the entire world at his fingertips. He can do whatever he wishes! So happy for him! He says love is the key and it really is: loving yourself. Seems he finally found the love for himself. Love it. Thanks for the positive video Mark!

[@TaterTots380]

With that voice and million dollar smile, he'd make an excellent motivational speaker. Congratulations Brandon and I'm proud of you!

[@sophiamilton1557]

He sho would be a great motivational speaker and encourage lives maybe a juvenile detention center or group homes

[@lydelltucker2372]

Someone has a crrrruuuush

[@JeffWallaceSpeaks]

This may a bit long warning lol, but I really want to say that I am truly inspired by this man's journey of transformation from “Smoke” to “Brandon”, and his openness and authenticity in sharing his past experiences show incredible strength and courage. Change is never easy, but it is always possible, and this man's story is a shining example of that. I can relate to the idea of being a "Time Traveler" - going back to where we were mentally in the past and using that experience to help others. It takes a lot of bravery to confront our past selves and share our stories in order to inspire and support others on their own journeys of change. I went from being a teen sent to an adult prison, spending 4 years of a 6-year prison term in solitary confinement, to getting out, going to college, and eventually becoming a Criminal Justice professor. At times during my professional career, heck I even worked in the same facilities that I was in as a juvenile! So, Brandon’s story is personal to me and very inspiring. We need more of these stories in the world that seem to thrive from negativity. So, to all the time travelers out there - keep moving forward, keep sharing your stories, and keep inspiring others. Your journey is not easy, but it is worth it. If you are reading this Brandon, I wish you the best in your recovery and personal growth. Keep shining your light and making a difference in the world!!

[@bambineal1956]

@JeffWallaceSpeaks Huge inspiration! You should write a book! I would buy it! Then comes the screenplay!

[@JeffWallaceSpeaks]

@@bambineal1956 I appreciate your words of kindness 🙏🏾! We need more of that in this world!! I did do two Tedx Talks … check them out!!! Search Jeff wallace Ted talk and you will find that and other things!! For so long I was not willing to discuss my past but after doing the first Tedx talk it sort of ripped the bandaid off and I had no choice lol 😂! I have to say that I walked off that stage more free than I ever felt including the day I walked out of prison! This is why what Brandon did was so impactful!!! Thank you 😊 again!

[@WHAT_THE_F0XX]

❤

[@JoyPaul-pe7ij]

Congratulations ❤

[@londarayray6503]

TURN THAT PAGE

[@wrath231]

Have can you not love this man? Great storytelling.

[@jjonez787]

because I dont love thugs?

[@rustyscupper6439]

Sure, his storytelling & voice wash away the years of crime, drugs & misery. I wish him the best but 30 days is barely a dent.

[@HustleMagnets]

@@rustyscupper6439 gotta start somewhere

[@CoolCalmCollected87]

@@jjonez787 Who said he’s a thug, besides you? You can just not like him, but you don’t have to throw fake ass titles on him lol

[@MizeryLuvsCupcakes]

So proud of you! The brilliant smile on your face when you talk about recovery says it all. You got this. Thank you so much for sharing your story.

[@susanperkins8149]

So good to hear your story. I am 36 years sober and wouldn't trade for anything. It is a life of constant vigilance . Stay with it. God bless you

[@CassieBee88]

36 years, what an awesome accomplishment! ❤

[@unencumberedeliquent]

Brandon, I hope you are part of the 1/10 who make it bro... you're on a pink cloud right now. I'm glad you have this video to fall back on when that pink cloud fades, (if it does). Watch this when you want to get high and don't go back to Texas. Don't get with a girl you met in rehab and stay away from the predatory behavior that is alive and well in the rooms. I wish you nothing but peace and love man.... your story is incredible.

[@astridlabodhisattva1098]

So far you are the best comentarist here. Seems like you know what's really up.

[@courtneymarques1969]

Your drunk right now.

[@rockroll527]

Which rooms?

[@davidtrevino7962]

Early sobriety is hard.. greatest advice I ever received fresh out of rehab.. don’t hang out with the newcomers.. find people with serous time and have what you want.. 5, 10, 15+ years, living a happy life, and hang with them… 7 years in and still follow this advice in all aspects of my life.. ODAAT Brandon.. tomorrow doesn’t matter if you don’t handle business today.. keep grinding!

[@courtneymarques1969]

This was advice 15 yrs ago. Shit is way different.

[@skjaldmaer81]

You are definitely here to complete a mission. Sending light and positivity to you, Brandon.

[@mikefurr5281]

First off, thank you Stephanie for planting the seed and making the call because without that we wouldn't have this experience. People fresh out of rehab, who've gone the course are always excited and give an inspiring outlook for their future. History will tell us that successes don't come easy or often. Let's hope that Smoke walked into a rehab center and Brandon left, to tell his story, to make a new story for himself that will enable him to feel good about himself for the rest of his time. Congrats Brandon, we're here for you!

[@PracticallyMagic88]

So proud of this guy! All he needed was someone to believe in him, and to care about his future. He seems so excited that he graduated, as he should congrats!! May your future be filled with nothing but the best for you❤

[@AmyVanEpps]

Thank you for this story, Brandon (and Mark). May everybody out there surround themselves with good people, love, and understanding.❤

[@sheepnomore8063]

Congratulations on your 30 days of sobriety, Brandon! Stay strong!

[@lesliemarvin160]

Wow Brandon. I'm so proud of you. I needed to hear this story this morning. Thank you.

[@LoverofIAM]

AWESOME INTERVIEW - I am so happy for you! someone that made it and is helping others to make it! AMAZING!

[@carolseven3802]

Brandon please keep us updated on your progress! We definitely want to hear about your successes.

[@suzimaynard2171]

I have never heard Mark lost for words. He was blown away by the transformation of Brandon from "Smoke". Brandon how proud you must feel with completing your 30 days!! Congrats! I wish you well with the 12 steps program and beyond.

[@lisafrederick8870]

U must not watch often. It's not a loss for words, he's just letting him tell his story

[@donniemcmillin4839]

I’m pretty sure he’s trying not to bring him down by say the obvious which is that 30 days sober is basically nothing in the grand scheme of things. Especially after he just told us his story about not learning from his mistakes over and over again. He sounds like he has a habit of being over confident and thinking he’s fixed only to relapse again and again.

[@xavierwilliams2228]

@@donniemcmillin4839the devils lasso

[@jsmith5509]

@@donniemcmillin4839 , this time may be different because he's made the connection between what his vulnerabilities and triggers are. He understands that he CANNOT surround himself with the same people, places and things and expect to have a successful outcome. The wrong people, places and things can destroy all the hard work and effort he has put forth.

[@joyrn7663]

Congratulations, Brandon! You are an inspiration to many. Keep pushing... you've got this! Looking forward to your update interview!

[@marathongirl27]

I am so proud of you Brandon!! Many years ago Drug addiction took my aunt and uncle (years apart). I wish they had success like yours. Keep up the great work and keep good, positive, sober people around you.

[@smiauu]

Brandon has really pleasant voice

[@jjonez787]

i know hes so articulit

[@talulatree5297]

I was literally going to comment the same thing.😊

[@s.bornand5424]

Dude should host a radio show or do a podcast with that voice!!!

[@NatanyaCapani-Bostic]

Beautiful, inspiring way to start my Thursday morning! God bless you Brandon, I am so proud of you and rooting for you! Keep putting one foot in front of the other ❤

[@marylougeorge9890]

Brandon, thank you for sharing your life with us. I know you have encouraged people to move forward into healing. You’ve been a help to me as I have a 14 year old nephew locked up in juvenile detention for stealing 4 cars. It’s a big mess. But hearing your journey of ups and downs has given me hope that he will get through this no matter what he chooses. He knows I don’t approve of what he’s done but I still love him. You have renewed my belief in love being the answer. Thank you. Please come back to update us on your new life. Big love and hugs from this Michigan grandma. ❤️🤗🙏

[@TTFUwithAnieJo]

ty! for updates plz subscribe

[@LarLarLar36]

Stay strong brother. Your story is powerful and inspiring. Keep telling it, there’s a lot more people needing to hear it ♥️🙏🏾

[@emmac687]

Congrats Brandon!! Don’t give up, keep going! Proud of you!

[@thatgirltla]

I was born and raised in Lubbock, TX. I couldn't wait to leave. I left 27 years ago and never looked back. I couldn't see anything good from coming there. May God bless you on your journey.

[@frankwoods6821]

What was about it that you couldn't wait to leave?

[@minigirl6839]

Lubbock is a great town. It's even better since you left.

[@jimmyhooks]

@@minigirl6839 i mean, you don't personally know the original commenter 😂 lol what bro

[@alfonsoterrazas7038]

I love my city Lubbock tx

[@tarahart8605]

From the moment he started speaking there was a sense that something is incredibly special about this gentleman. He is rare in so many ways. Brandon, may you continue to grow in wisdom and understanding of your purpose and potential. Congratulations! Your future is extremely bright. You have so much ahead… your best is yet to come!

[@BMO_Creative]

Wow! Lots to unpack here! Basically when he learned how to be humble, grateful and thankful, the truth and love set him free! I honestly have known Aryan Brotherhood people as well, and they never were racist towards me at all! Great video and photo Mark!

[@sryxafraidofmonstersx]

man lemme tell u what u got so much charisma i had a great time listening to your story hope u stay off those garbage drugs and enjoy your life the right way✝️❤

[@karissafox9974]

Brandon, YOU GOT THIS!!! You are real, genuine and a true success. I’m so proud of you! You were receptive and learned so much in rehab in a short amount of time. Think about how much you’ll continue to learn and do better. You’ll make a difference in many lives. Do NOT go back to Texas! Stay strong and enjoy your fresh start!!!

[@kellyharris5705]

The best interview ever! You got this Brandon stay on course no matter what! Showing love from Camden, New Jersey!❤

[@gadiva001]

So proud of you Brandon! I know you’ve been through alot but you turned the negative into doing good. Keep up the good work

[@gypsiehustle8763]

I pray for his continued strength and success! He has a good heart and I hope he stays on the right path.

[@MissWV007]

So proud of you Brandon! Keep moving forward bro! Excited to see your update with a year living clean ❤

[@Venusmindtrap]

Let’s go! Such a beautiful story, I feel Brandon is one of the most honest on here. Such a soothing voice Brandon has.

[@MTCr8zy]

You GOT this B. So proud of the hard work and motivation you have chose. Mind set is powerful…you are loved.

[@heidi190]

thank you for sharing your life experiences with Mark (also the world). Honesty about what happened to you is probably the best way to walk this earth, you're my new hero

[@SenElecia]

this interview is one of my very favorites from this channel. congrats brandon, you’re such an inspiration to not only me but to so many who can relate to any part of your story. thank you for sharing and i’m happy that you can finally let go and feel free in your being and life. ❤️

[@littlezentz]

Keep doing it Brandon. You have so much Charisma, I can't wait for your next interview. Whoever your therapist is they have super powers, 30 days you learned all THAT.

[@denz4133]

Exactly what I was thinking.

[@littlezentz]

I'd adopt that child as a grandchild in a minute. He's adorable isn't he?@@denz4133

[@donnastalnaker8783]

Thank you for sharing your inspiring story. It was so uplifting to here you speak and talk about your tun around. I am so happy for you. Please, please keep us posted and do the right thing. I love your eyes! ❤

[@peacelily64]

I’m proud of you Brandon you completed the program! Keep moving away from your past mistakes and be who your meant to be ✌🏻

[@melissamartin9615]

This guy is AWESOME! He speaks so well; had an incredible journey. It's completely amazing the amount of abuse the human body can take and still survive. Now it's time to THRIVE.

[@germball78]

Graeat story! Praying for your continual recovery. This is going to make for an amazing follow up interview. Can't wait.

[@Liz-uj2ot]

Brandon, I know we didnt live the same life, but I know your pain and I know what that can do to a person. You have incredible inner strength. And your story is remarkable, for you to be sittting in this chair with a clear head, strong body took an amazing feat just for you to live through and make it to this point. My pain from my addiction is now my purpose. I know God is working in your life and your story is going to help others. Wish you love, light and long term recovery~ w/love fm NY ;)

[@Mr.metoo759]

V c

[@jessicajennifer9827]

For not having kids, he has my utmost respect.

[@snicker576]

Uh what? Having kids is awesome and respectable

[@preposteroussvideos]

Cause he would be a shit father not everybody should be a parent ​@@snicker576

[@IsvRada]

You did not understood what that means. He in that time having kids would have be the worst option.@@snicker576​

[@frantssagmyr-truksvik6140]

Not while on pcp and meth you weirdo​@@snicker576

[@technomickdocumentalist2495]

@@snicker576 Not when the drugs are number 1 , he did the respectable thing by not inflicting his addiction and criminal behavior on babies .

[@afoolsjourney4444]

What a beautiful man ! Loved this talk ❤ Morning Mark ❤

[@venetia6296]

I’m so happy for you, Brandon! Best luck 🍀

[@catherinegrant5428]

I love your voice and your honesty.This is a really good interview.Thank you

[@tammic2016]

Brandon I can’t even express how happy and proud and excited I am for you! You can succeed in anything you do! I have zero doubts you can do this so you never ever doubt that about yourself! We can’t wait to see you shine. Welcome to the SWU family and keep us posted on your journey. ❤

[@SuzanneEgan-r9r]

Thank you for sharing your story Brandon💚wishing you Irish blessings to keep on the road to recovery☘️🙏

[@KratomLuv]

I think this is the best video on the channels so far. I love the turn Mark has taken with more positive stories. You NEED to be able to see that change is possible.

[@letakeokuk5446]

Yes absolutely, this was a pleasure to see from broken to overcoming!!!!🤎

[@AgodisFemi-9]

Love and strength from Atlanta. You're a great story Teller. Please continue to speak, it's your gift from God. ❤❤❤

[@Hope-pp4ty]

You completed something! My heart is full for you! SO happy for your new healthy life.

[@JazzyJazz7724]

Brandon, wishing you the best!

[@JaZmine147]

His voice soothes me so much. I could listen forever.

[@nicksterp2805]

Incredible story. Congrats Brandon. You'd make an awesome drug counsellor. You don't hear of many sober success stories from black, hispanic, other communities. You're a great model and teacher. very intelligent and well spoken. I think you could do some great rehab work in the prisons as well. Keep working on your sobriety every day. You are blessed!

[@keztukariri]

Ataahua Brandon, well done brother, i wish you all the love, light and happiness for your new chapter ❤️ we are the energy we put out! much love from Aotearoa NZ. Therapy is truly a gift if you are ready 💚💚💚

[@Jamesadamiak]

This man can definitely help other people!

[@colleenprinz3129]

Remarkable story, remarkable man. I live in NY and dont know Brandon but I am so proud of him. I believe this man will have an impact in society. I see greatness in you Brandon and wish you all the success in the world! Keep up the great work Brandon AND Mark❤

[@AM-ei7qk]

Congratulations on your sobriety, Brandon. Thank you for sharing your story. God Bless 🙏

[@JustRaine97]

Brandon you deserve a better life. You worked hard to achieve sobriety and I pray that you continue to better your life. Keep up the good work man. Thank you for telling your story. I wish you the best. Looking forward to many good updates on your progress! You got this bro. Keep that fire lit. ❤🙏🏾

[@heatherporter4280]

Good morning Mark! Hope you have a relaxed and fabulous day!❤

[@zachgood1503]

I wish nothing but the absolute BEST for Brandon. Awesome story

[@kelleennordquist5697]

Great job, Brandon! so many people are so proud of you! Congratulations and KEEP ON GOING!!!

[@Toddtoddy78]

Congrats on sobriety man. Welcome to the real world! Embrace it and thrive!

[@ShookD]

Way to go Brandon ! Such a Terrific story, very uplifting. We are praying for you Brandon.

[@debtokona2353]

Awesome testimony!!!!Well done and all the best for the future Brandon x

[@hapatrini]

Good luck Brandon. Keep doing the hard work and surround yourself with supportive people

[@tanya351]

Thank you smoke for sharing your story truly inspiring Stay strong peace and luv from Dublin

[@Material12167]

You’re not only an INSPIRATION ❤ you’re very well spoken, and an Incredible storyteller. CONGRATULATIONS on your recovery/graduation. You’re going to change so many people’s lives sharing your honest to goodness truth. I wish you the very best on your bright new future. ❤❤❤❤❤

[@TexasRN53]

Thank you for inspiring me Brandon.

[@CaroleMora22]

It sounds like this is the first of many completed goals, Brandon has made a quantum leap forward, and no doubt will be able to help others.

[@JforReal]

Brandon, you are an inspiration. As a mental health therapist I pray you watch this video should you ever have an urge to do drigs again. Congratulations on graduating! Keep your head high and stay strong. Best of luck!

[@ashleyl9417]

I love this one. He is so well spoken about his struggles and his story. It all flowed so well. You can see that he’s a good man. I hope you do a follow up on him Mark. I know he will be one of your success stories.

[@THarp324]

I have watched as many of these videos as most of you have and I can say, personally, this has been my absolute favorite. While not necessarily relatable in terms of what he was doing and where he has been I think many people can relate to Brandon's story and share feelings of hope and fulfillment in a life free of addiction and personal torture. Congratulations on deciding to live and to do so with purpose. In the climate we are living in today encompassed with drugs and violence I only hope we have the opportunity to witness more stories like this. "Addiction is not about alcohol or drugs. It is the absence of self."

[@md9882]

It's uplifting to see the turn around. Keep your head up Brandon. You've got the tools to take this all the way. 60 and 90 day updates please.

[@ZakeeVEVO]

This is one of the best stories i’ve heard of here.

[@EmEm872]

Brandon, Im keeping everything crossed that you continue to live a sober life and stay close to your new family. You have such a wonderful way of telling your story, you truly can inspire others. Congratulations on getting your 30 day chip, you did it!! Mark, please, please stay in touch with Brandon and do follow up interviews. My hope is that one day in the future, he will be back to tell us about how full his life is with hope, connection and love. Patrick has shown us that this is possible, Brandon can too.n

[@hopewills5027]

You got this, The realness of your story is so good for so many people

[@MoniqueHaynes-zq6ux]

Wow! He can do SO much good for others who have gone through similar situations. Keep yourself happy and healthy friend!!!

[@sunshinejoy3030]

Good luck Brandon this was like a breath of fresh air for this channel may God be with u

[@esiteri5061]

I love this! You are a walking testimony brother!!! Keep sharing your story!

[@patriciawilson6978]

Thanks for sharing your story

[@TrenVoge]

I love this! Please stay sober Brandon! You could be a wonderful inspiration and we need you! I’m in recovery for 10 years and I know your story cuz I lived in those streets. You could get a scholarship to go to school to be a substance use counselor! Your vulnerability to tell this story is so Powerful! Share your knowledge and spread the love!

[@kimberlythayer4857]

Open up the doors hit hard !!!! Amen Brandon 🙏 Congratulations on 30 days ODAT 🎉

[@stephamis99-1]

Great interview!! Hopefully we can see him again in like 6ths to see how he is doing!

[@dj_saint]

Definitely need updates. Great attitude. Congrats on your future accomplishments and on your biggest accomplishment which was locking yourself up to allow your change

[@Monica313_]

The ending of this video really hit me and made me have some realizations about family and validation. Congratulations Brandon on your sobriety and graduation. You deserve to be proud and happy and to talk about it as much as you please. Keep it up🫶🏼 you have ppl who you don’t even know rooting for you and sending you love 🩷 thank you for your story and wise words. 🙏🏼

[@izzydeadyet7336]

The last few minutes were the best, about not spending energy on people who bring you down.. it made me realize my mother is very toxic.. I’m an only child and she’s pretty much one of the only people I talk to in my life, but she’s extremely negative and narcissistic .. a lot of times even if the conversation started out positive, she’ll have me thinking negative and all riled up by the end of the conversation.. I can go from hopeful to hopeless in the span of twenty minutes talking to her.. I don’t know how I would ever distance myself from her, being my mother who I talk to a lot, but it turns into fighting almost every time

[@sheepnomore8063]

That is a tough one. Maybe when she starts to be negative, politely tell her that you have to go. Keep doing it, and maybe she'll eventually get the picture. Also, try to find some new friends that you can talk to. Join a group of people with similar interests or hobbies, or maybe find a good church where most of the time, someone will reach out to you.

[@SwimKam]

Deep respect and compassion for you, Sir. ❤❤❤

[@garvinc7267]

Thank you mark and Brandon ❤

[@starringshannon8163]

What a story. This guy is great! I wish you all the best, Brandon! Edited to add that he actually answers questions directly. I can appreciate that. Also, he is super lucky to have a sound mind, a fertile mind and has all his wits about him. The sky is not the limit. He can do ANYTHING!