The Fight for Fair Pay | Hard Earned | ENDEVR Documentary

[@ENDEVRDocs]

(Yes we are looking into a follow up on everyone in the series )DJ steps up his union activity, Jose and Elizabeth put everything on the line to improve their living situation and Emilia gets an unexpected call about a job opportunity. Percy gets a $1.50/hour raise at a new custodial position and Takita prepares for a celebration at church. Hard Earned is a documentary series that puts aside economic debates and follows five families around the country to find out what it takes to get by on $8, $10, or $15 an hour. And we are looking into a follow-up series on everyone.

[@akashraheja7203]

Stop reposting again and again... Get some new episodes

[@Degenerate-sports-gambler]

learn some skills such as getting your CDL, learning a trade,.... minimum wage = minimum skill. or if ANYONE can do your job there's no skill involved. learn something to make yourself worth more. this is coming from a high school drop out, so... ive been at the bottom. handouts are not the answer. go learn a skill.

[@TwinBleaks]

@@Degenerate-sports-gambler Oh please. Most minimum wage jobs I've had have been the most taxing and taken the most skill and energy. I work a desk job now making over twice the min wage and I do next to nothing lol. No skill involved whatsoever. It's not as black and white as you make it out to be. Don't act like all or even most minimum wage jobs take no skill.

[@cyrene7784]

This all sounds like episode 6.

[@cyrene7784]

@@Degenerate-sports-gambler Not everyone is a good book-learner though, and that's the kind of learning that is valued now. It's really sad that manual skills like carpentry, sewing, knitting, metalworking etc. have no value anymore. There just isn't a place for everyone. 😔

[@retiredandcrusty]

Shoutout to KZbin algorithm for recommending this. I’ve spent all day binge watching this and emotionally invested in all the families

[@theshugashackpodcast2457]

Same here. I stayed up until 3 watching when I had to get up at 7 for work.

[@GilAV-gc8bj]

@@theshugashackpodcast2457 wow

[@AlexandraNevermind]

Saturday morning binge

[@genxx2724]

Me too!

[@juliet7703]

Same here. Any chance I get I m here anxious to see how everyone is getting on. I never paid attention to the theme tune but it caught me. Thats a great song and so relevant

[@cestbonbon5961]

Emilia should really consider retiring in Italy, she is a citizen. When she retires, if she has no savings, her social security will be miserable here in Chicago but she could have a decent life in Italy. She could easily rent a nice 1 bedroom in a big city for 600 euros (cheaper in a small town) and live comfortably (food is cheap), public transit is great, and the cherry on top is she will have access to free excellent healthcare.

[@LordYafar]

Define house poor: When living paycheck to paycheck (Praise God 🙏)

[@T1kr3b3u]

And in italy your odds of getting robbed, car jacked or shot is considerably lower.

[@coastallivingmississippi188]

@@T1kr3b3u you don’t think they get robbed in Italy you’re crazy. I know somebody that got robbed over there this frequent with the gypsies.

[@ZebraZoom007]

DJ, you've already made it. You're 10x the father yours couldn't even dream about being.

[@MoroMoro1]

The couple from Milwaukee is soo endearing. 9% interest, and after 13 years still having what you initially paid for the house left to pay is mind blowing. Seeing Percy dancing around to michael jackson was soo adorable, made me smile soo hard.

[@eboyd2478]

It’s so sad omg

[@joypeaceandhappiness1501]

​@@eboyd2478 It feels like they could be my grandparents. That's what makes it so sad. They worked so hard

[@bellj753]

Predatory balloon financing at it's finest. They should have never paid 5-6% interest max. If your loan was 0% down, you got screwed in the long run.

[@dynahawk249]

I don't understand, can someone help me. The house is 79k, they have to pay 9% (7110$) more because of the loan. So in total the house would cost 86110$. Until now they only paid the 9% since they said they still need to pay 79k ? I'm a missing something , maybe they need to pay 9% every year or month + the cost of the house ?

[@joypeaceandhappiness1501]

@@dynahawk249 Hope this helps. The 9% is throughout the duration of the loan, older people used to call it carrying cost. 9% interest is charged on the amount they are financing every month. Similar to a credit card. The interest gets paid first then the remaining payment goes towards the principal. As you make payments the balance owed decreases. There interest rate is so high plus refinancing they have only paid the interest and nothing towards the principal.

[@Mercurychyld1]

One complaint/suggestion; PLEASE, when doing awesome docs like this, put parts 1,2,3, etc…Otherwise it’s hard to decipher which video goes where. Thank you.

[@LIK64]

Agree

[@teachingthepetites4614]

Poverty in America is swept under the rug. Proud of you guys bringing it to light. We see it in schools every day.

[@sweatt4237]

It's very sad, but it will never improve until we stop the privately owned corporation The Federal Reserve from printing our money.

[@johngalt4437]

That group of women (incuding his wife) sitting around that table making fun of Jose while he was trying to actually read the paperwork to understand what was happening is why a lot of couples get into trouble. He was the only rational one sitting at that table and like he said they were all sitting around cracking jokes and playfully insinuating that he was the slow one. Tisk. Tisk.

[@katydid2877]

Sounds like 2008.

[@myyt3824]

As an escrow officer, I see it all the time. I always go at the pace of the slower one. It’s a massive commitment. Buyers should have asked all their big questions before closing, but things always come to mind at the table and I’ll take as long as needed for all parties to get through it. These jokers were straight up ignorant and disrespectful.

[@TwinBleaks]

@@myyt3824 It also makes a world of difference having a knowledgeable and helpful realtor with you every step of the way. I bought my home in 2020 (thank goodness!!) and my realtor took the time and made sure I understood everything. Was with me at signing and everything, she really went above and beyond.

[@ladyofthecentury]

He doesn’t have any money anyway he’s not paying for the house he’s just using his VA loan. She’s the one who pays she’s the educated one she’s a school counselor and he’s just a minimum wage worker who has the ability to use his VA loan. Latching on to a woman with more money and he has a kid and won’t work harder. He reduced himself to being her child too

[@carter_1]

I completely agree! Oh but it'll be his fault when things go south & they can't afford it, but that's been evident the whole relationship *starting with the ring!

[@kb8990]

It’s been many years since this show was recorded. I really wish we could have an update on how these folks turned out.

[@chad5893]

I did a bit of digging, Diana Kennedy, wife of Hilton Kennedy apparently divorced at some point and she now has healthy twins. Going to look into the rest of them shortly and report back.

[@barbaravyse660]

@@chad5893 I’m really interested in DeJaun. He looks like he’s got a great future ahead of him.

[@apricotcomputers3943]

I'm sure you could guess... Recession, COVID, weather emergencies... I'm sure you can figure it out

[@nicolems]

@@chad5893 So, what else did u find Chad?

[@MissAries76]

@@chad5893 Thanks...I would love this too!

[@mrenae6798]

I’m so rooting for Dj and his family. From Chicago too and feel a sense of pride watching someone young fr the city w a great work ethic and ambition.

[@Martin199320]

29 and I don't like to work

[@ilovejesuschrist992]

​@@Martin199320troll

[@tymaketheworldabetterplace4247]

I hope every single one of these folks have gotten a better wage , they all deserve it. Hard working folks like these is what keeps this country running, they are the heart and soul of America!!

[@malakwaqasawan4371]

As a citizen of third-world country, I can say the life of the working class in such an advanced country is not better. Our sufferings and struggles are the same.

[@davisholman8149]

What you don’t see are those who made good decisions & really soared.🦅 You would be surprised how many folks come from poverty & actually make something out of a few opportunities.💰

[@Codi892]

@@davisholman8149 it is not based on "good" decisions. Stop living in a rose colored bubble. Bad situations can dismantle even the most prepared. That's why the number one reason behind bankruptcy in America is medical expenses.

[@katydid2877]

@@Codi892 Medical expenses aren’t usually from a bad decision. Bad decisions are dropping out of high school, not getting training or education for a good paying job, having kids when you’re broke, and insisting on living in a hugely expensive city when you’re not trained for a good job.

[@Codi892]

@@katydid2877 In America the number one reason for bankruptcy is due to medical expenses. Regardless of your socioeconomic status or education, it is medical bills that usually make people lose everything / homeless.

[@katydid2877]

@@Codi892 Then there’s the addicts, alcoholics, and mentally ill, all of which make you unemployable.

[@Sunsetsmilesxo]

Elizabeth seems like she wants more than what Jose can provide, and it’s clearly causing Jose to experience more stress.

[@madagirl2026]

Absolutely and she deserves it.

[@Lppolymath90]

Yeah, I sensed that too. I wonder if they're still married.🤔

[@AnasCreativeCorner]

That's a guaranteed divorce. She's oblivious to what he feels, needs, etc. Who cares if she connected with his kid, when she's disconnected from the man. And he has to schlep her parents around. Ugh.

[@MAGA4EVA1986]

@@AnasCreativeCorner Yeah having watched 4 episodes I can tell she is CLEARLY HIGH MAINTENANCE and being a fully disabled combat veteran myself I can relate to Jose as well

[@charles910]

Look at all the women who divorced their ex who are billionaires like Gates and Bezos. It's never enough for some women. When you are unemployed and have time, they want money. When you have tons of money, they want time. Or "emotional availability", "attention", etc. No wonder MGTOW is growing

[@triple_gem_shining]

The house closing part was harrrrd to watch. It's devilish they allow folks to go into half a million debt for a 175-200k house

[@jitlv]

Allow? As you saw in that closing meeting -- no one has coerced or coaxed them to sign that fine print. It was their decision to do so -- let them live with that consequence.

[@Destrudo5359]

it was. very 30 years that's 11k a year in interest.295k 30 years or more basically...

[@joypeaceandhappiness1501]

The house is 313k

[@DimaRakesah]

@@joypeaceandhappiness1501 Plus interest and all final expenses it came to $500k.

[@jpdst29]

There are mortgage interest calculators all over the Internet. They will tell you exactly how much you’re going to pay at the end of the mortgage. It’s not like it’s a secret that they ambush you with at the closing.

[@Lazirus951]

Jose is the only sane person in that room. He's correct to be serious when they show the total payment is $531,049 for a $313,700 house.

[@triple_gem_shining]

Poor Jose.. and his mom goes " it's so tiny!" Can you imagine? 😢

[@noirlily3413]

Jose is right... It's a serious thing. People crack jokes as a way of distracting you...

[@myyt3824]

Yep

[@theshugashackpodcast2457]

This series is so good. I’m hooked. I would love and update and on each of them.

[@greenmtngirl4883]

Excellent series! I just spent my entire Sunday watching it! I would love to see a follow-up on everyone in it. Thanks!

[@thomasmorrison3279]

Jose and Elizabeth are crazy for buying a house. They cannot afford it. Just wanting more space does not justify buying something you cannot afford. A house involves mortgage, taxes, utilities, repairs, regular maintenance costs, HOA fees, etc.

[@Ms.Delphine1204]

They could with a combined income. Remember she pays her parents mortgage of $1200/ month, now that will be gone because they are moving in with them.

[@goodvibes04281]

$1200 what about if something breaks in the house water heater, appliances, roof?? I took a first time homeowner classes and is not all peaches and cream. You can’t go by because of what you’re paying for rent, owning is a different ball game.

[@GuitarsRgood7]

Someone needs to tell Jose that you don't have to wait 30 years to pay off the house. You can pay it off faster and save yourself tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars in interest.

[@genxx2724]

It’s better to invest the extra money. It will grow and compound more than the low interest rate on the loan.

[@madagirl2026]

My darling when you leave check to check there is no way to make extra payments I’ve been in my house 15 years and there’s no way I can possibly stretch anything extra only my gum😂😂😂

[@janedurham7293]

In an earlier episode they were turned down for a mortgage on a cheaper house. He had his veteran's benefits then also. So why are they getting approved now for a house that costs more because of the same benefits he had then???

[@MrTobytherat]

Looks like Elizabeth makes all the good financial decisions and is the primary bread winner. Getting the home is a good financial decision because for most people, it is forced savings that increase your net worth. Lets be honest, whatever money that they save from renting is not going to be invested to increase their net worth. The reason why African Americans have lower net worth than the general population is because of their difficulty in getting home ownership. Plus she makes more than him. He's a lucky guy

[@jstanley8545]

@@janedurham7293 I believe they applied for a low income loan (not a VA loan) and were not eligible because they were over the income limit due to her working over the summer. That's probably why they decided to go VA on this house. The first time home buyer/low income home loans are tricky. Both the home and the buyers need to meet certain qualifications.

[@sunandanarayanan7016]

Wow Percy has the moves, he and Beverly are amazing. Hopefully the children were able to help out and they are still there. It would be great if you could do a follow up on everyone in 2023

[@shanabenjamin8945]

I worked restaurant, painting, sanding pool decks, 3 jobs and I made it out the other side! Keep the faith!

[@Jswilk830]

Been here at age 19, worked 3 jobs. Sometimes no lights on, empty fridge, crazy roommates screwing me out of rent, holes in my work shoes, by the grace of God I worked my way out…This brings up all my old fears! Pushes all my what if buttons… I try to prepare for things I don’t see coming but it’s a real fear…❤

[@Ninnjette-]

Where are you now? Did you finally make it, to where you want to be?

[@laetitialogan2002]

Yup...the memories of poverty never goes away

[@mew19forever]

I think this series is powerful and a much watch. The strength of theses people is beyond incredible. The working class go to war everyday and no one knows their sacrifices, their struggles . Theses are the truly strong. Theses are my people. I'm proud to be a working class.

[@michaelchacon3397]

The look on Jose’s face when hearing the closing costs and the final cost of house after 30 years, omg. You can see the stress overwhelming him in an instant while everyone is cracking jokes.

[@user-ui1zv8bd4y]

His total math lack clearly shows

[@TelmaFrege]

She is also a big contributor to that stress... in a previous episode she pushed him to spend double what they budgeted for rings, I think over $3K, and got annoyed when he got stressed about it. Couples should carry the burden together and make sacrifices together. If the ring she wants is out of their budget... too bad, put those thousands of $ toward the home!

[@84americanwoman]

Well he did hate his math classes lol I am the same way with the numbers. I don’t understand how the house buying process works, as I’ll never own one. I would expect half a million in DC is cheap?

[@sitamcclellan3121]

Earlier they said the cost was just over $300,000. Then at the last minute they say over $500,000. That should have been clarified much earlier. I knew a woman in the same situation and her son got very angry because she went ahead and signed. They will also have to pay a few thousand a year for property taxes.

[@bobbys9853]

I think his face was serious because the numbers were huge, they were making light hearted jokes because it wasnt them in the situation. He knew the responsible that its going to take for this situation. I dont blame him, i dont like people who make light hearted jokes during a serious time because that means something is being overlooked.

[@scherriebanks6238]

I love watching those seniors at the senior center sitting around enjoying themselves after their hard earned retirement. I bet there is a lot of wisdom in that room.

[@temekarollins6007]

This is where the issue lies...making more money doesn't mean spend more...it means save, for a raining day. Buying new shoes, for one event, when you have shoes, is ridiculous.

[@lifevest1]

I heard that and shook my head. This is for your church choir anniversary, calm down…

[@kevinkidneyy]

i got mad when i seen them buying more stuff for no reason . take advantage of the new income !!!!!

[@YoungCoyy]

I SWEAR....I SWEAR BRO!!!!!!

[@cameronking3551]

It's a cultural thing in the black community to have new fresh clothes all the time.I remember in high school hearing a couple of my female friends both black say they would never date a guy that didn't have fresh clothing.

[@temekarollins6007]

@@cameronking3551 It's not just the black community, I see documentaries of all races & ethnicities talking about having to have a nice house and car, etc., living paycheck to paycheck, yet maxing out credit cards to go on vacations and giving their kids/families a nice Christmas. It's a lack of knowledge about finances, mixed with, trying to have a lifestyle for, "others" to admire. People in general are financially illiterate, along with irresponsible, then want to be filmed on how they're struggling, and want to blame everyone except themselves. The rule of thumbs is to have an 8 months emergency fund. If you and/or your spouse are continuously working, along with having an emergency fund, and knowledge of finances, there is no way, the government, a landlord, or employer, should have you in a financial situation where you're struggling to make ends meet, especially if you're in the mall purchasing shoes for an event, that happens every year, around the same time, with the same damn colors.

[@SF-ob8tj]

Jose is not the man for her. She is dragging him kicking and whining with her.

[@jessealexander9074]

DJ is a champion of the working class. Real proud of him.

[@J.Giovanni]

@MasterOfTheObvious35 lol welcome to Chicago

[@AnasCreativeCorner]

Hilton is the most admirable of the whole lot in my opinion. Such a young man, working really hard, without knowing the language...that's truly incredible. Unfortunately, his girlfriend that is about as useless as you can get...but he loves her. I hope he's able to keep improving his life in all ways, so that he can have the peace he needs.

[@nicolems]

They divorced

[@davisholman8149]

@@nicolems No surprised. I hope he met someone who appreciates him & puts hard work into their future as he does. I know wonderful latinas who have successful cleaning businesses. Another who has a day care. He deserves a better partner.

[@jendelaney5335]

Awhhh guys c'mon you heard it from her own mouth she wasn't born to work.... like seriously how can someone so hardworking not find her laziness a problem. Man I hope Hilton is doing well with a good partner who works as hard as he does

[@Womenlovecigars]

@@jendelaney5335 In addition she only 18 like ummmmm yeah

[@jeep19]

He's poor, broke, and his job can't afford kids. He doesn't need to be sticking his diyqkc in another female, birth control, or use rubbers! My god, poor people make worse choices than anyone.

[@temekarollins6007]

Google said, "No!", to one day off and then gave Hilton an ultimatum. What's crazy is I just read about the layoffs at Google, and a woman had just given birth when she found out, she had been laid off. Stop giving more to these jobs, than you give to yourself, because they don't care about your family or financial situation, in the end.

[@Tonyscasa]

Absolutely at my day job now . I don’t do more than what I have to. As soon as another opportunity comes around I am leaving this dump . I have left the last three places for higher pay . Disregard at the highest level

[@Kevin-ip8uf]

DJ seems like a damn good guy. He's got a killer work ethic and the drive to do better for his family, but the drive for his family to keep him from being negligent in pursuit of his career. I kinda wish I had his dedication to my family, instead of my dedication to my job.

[@jeep19]

He has an anger problem, that can't bode well for his future.

[@symonelewis1690]

@@jeep19: How does DJ have an anger problem? You would be angry too if you are working so hard, and are still underpaid.

[@jeep19]

@@symonelewis1690 because he said he has an anger problem.

[@EastCoastReefer]

Dude doesn’t even know how to open a checking account and pays over $37 to cash each paycheck.

[@dameyu2able]

Phenomenal documentary!! I can't stop watching.

[@nothingspecific.8119]

Been watching all these previous episodes! I live in my van full time, and just get choked up inside at all these amazing people and their struggles! It's heart felt to see what others are dealing with also!

[@84americanwoman]

Emilia is so hilarious and a straight shooter. She wears her emotions on her sleeve. I too thought I’d be somewhere else at this point in my life. Things never worked out for me..doesn’t help my imbalances to think about it but I’m always reminded. 😅 life is hard. Thankfully there’s KZbin lol

[@crystalsswtor3760]

I'm still trying to plug along but I'm going backwards

[@juliet7703]

My God you can see how anxious Jose is about buying the house...he didn't really want to make that commitment. I can understand his point of view on that. Don't start something you may not be able to finish

[@eratoisyourmuse659]

I dont see the big deal. You're either paying for rent or a mortage. Might as well pick the one that goes toward you at the end

[@MrTobytherat]

@@eratoisyourmuse659 and it's forced savings. if their home price doubles after 30 years, they will have 600k if they decide to sell. If they rent in stead of buying the house for 30 years, they will have to be very discipline to invest any leftover money (the difference of money between owning and renting) but most people will use that money to eat out more, or buy things at the mall. so after 30 years, they will have 0 dollars instead of 600k for buying that home.

[@cyrene7784]

@@eratoisyourmuse659 Yes but if you lose the house you lose the first-time buyer's program, and good luck ever getting another mortgage. I think down payment is 25 or 30%...?

[@lola.lola11.11]

He did not even wanna get married. Elizabeth is fooling herself. Pains me to see.

[@MrTmenzo]

Poor guy seems looks like he suffers from depression

[@prettiiprettii2700]

Idk how I stumbled across this but glad I did. So proud of DJ! Hope him and his family are doing well

[@mike-sk2li]

This episode is old. DJ was recently featured on a police /cops episode. He beat, and robbed a pregnant woman for $34 and received a 20 year prison sentence. BLM my friend 😂

[@peaceandlove544]

@@mike-sk2li that's not true

[@yvette3278]

So sad, wonder what happened for him to get to that point

[@LaBanane-rp7my]

​@@yvette3278he's lying

[@ilovejesuschrist992]

​@@mike-sk2liGo away troll.

[@yellowbird5411]

If the family "needs the house," why can't the whole family chip in each month to make up the mortgage payment? Families say, "Oh, my family doesn't have any money they can help me with." But they don't want to ask. When my aunt got Parkinson's and was deteriorating, the whole, small family chipped in to help pay her rent in an assisted living facility. I managed her doctor visits and etc. Families can help keep their parents where they are, especially if others come and go also. Too many kids don't help their parents, and parents don't want to ask for help. They will go down with the ship before they will ask. Kids shouldn't wait to be asked. They should just give and not expect to be paid back. When several family members help, the burden is lighter and no one has to carry the whole thing.

[@f0B00]

No, not at all. I grew up and had to ask for every single thing, wether I needed it for school, college or not. My parents never got me anything upfront, so I would not need to ask. Now I am married with a very good salary on top and besides dinners etc: if they need money they damn well need to ask for it as they taught me nothing in life will come from nothing, not even from your parents.

[@effytraveler6155]

It is hard to say. My mother says she did it on her own and failed see when people helped, and she depended on assistance. And how I was raised, I was to be a source of happiness and required to help out as soon as I was 18. I was a keep barely alive to get back in return as soon asap. She knew she needed help and wanted love. It was not about raising and helping. It was not about building a loving home. She was always telling us what we will do for her when we get older because she gave birth to us. She is our mother. It was never about what we need, food, clothing, or emotionally. It was a transaction of expectations. At sixteen she wanted me to buy my own clothes and food. She said she needed things like a roof, and I get it. But it was about using us to get it. Maybe those who also need it need to save to also survive and not be used as a constant bank.

[@nikkicas260]

I agree with this statement. They should all pith in $1118 mortgage payments is very doable 4 high school students can tackle that price. They should definitely help especially if the house is of a huge importance.

[@katherinesproat1081]

My mother just dumped us on someone else and the second time I ended up in foster care she refused to do the case plan to get me back. She never wanted any of us kids but sure wants help now that we are older. I wasn't put on this planet to be abandoned to a home that abused and neglected me only to grow up and wait on the person who abandoned me in the first hand and foot.

[@joypeaceandhappiness1501]

​​@@nikkicas260 boom. This can easily be split. If each child only gave 75 or 100 a month that would be a big help to the parents. Even if an older grandchild moved in and gave 300 a month for rent and utilities that would be a big help

[@astroHOBBES]

Percy stays dancing! I love the day to day life that is captured.

[@kingzaire2444]

If they still own that house in the DMV-area Jose has probably realized just how wise buying that home then was. Home Prices have skyrocketed in that area since they bought it 10 years ago.

[@neethi3jois]

That’s what I was thinking! You’d be hard pressed to find a 2 bedroom condo in MoCo at that price today, never mind a whole single family home!

[@aaronburge3680]

Fair pay shouldn't be a fight. Its a human right.

[@tommartyn524]

Define fair pay

[@selenapatterson2823]

This is a great series! Would love to see a followup on what happens to all of the people profiled.

[@GilAV-gc8bj]

Maybe they’re watching this and might reply 😄

[@HiltonRayKennedyIII]

@@GilAV-gc8bj I replied many other comments. It’s hard to keep up with too much love from you guys. I can tell Elizabeth and Jose they have 3 kids now, Takita and DJ have 4 or 5 kids if I am not mistaking, Percy and Beverly are still in love for sure. Not sure about Emilia since she doesn’t have social media accounts.

[@GilAV-gc8bj]

@@HiltonRayKennedyIII hope you're keeping well, man. May the Lord Jesus Christ bless you and your family.

[@Kyungone]

What an unprofessional closing agents and staff. Buying a first home can be overwhelming, instead of cracking jokes, they needed to explain in plain language for the clients.

[@TanDJServices]

Union organizer is probably the worst thing you can put on a resume. Probably want to change that to Organizational Outreach Administrator.

[@unconventionalforager6389]

What management did to Hinton is low and very disrespectful!

[@lhirsch1]

I don't know what the policy is, but consider he wasn't asking for time off due to sickness or family. He was asking for time off for another job. There may be a lot of reasons to complain about his employer, but I'm not sure this is one of them.

[@MrTmenzo]

And common sadly

[@lisalight55x]

Update Elizabeth Merino Assistant Principal at Shady Grove Middle School! Maryland native with Guatemalan & Peruvian roots., has a daughter.

[@blaqueathena]

Watching in January 2023 and people are still fighting to get 15/hour. Smh.

[@Codi892]

Not in Illinois anymore. The minimum wage here is now $15.

[@GodsChild1159]

@@Codi892 In many places employers were forced to pay more but ironically now they still can’t get enough workers.

[@emanuelrodriguez10]

@@GodsChild1159 Even $15 ain’t enough!!

[@GodsChild1159]

@@emanuelrodriguez10 There are other careers such as truck drivers, electricians, maintenance, computer experts, plumbers, nurses, etc. They all pay well but you must get the skills.

[@emanuelrodriguez10]

@@GodsChild1159 That’s right and most people don’t even want to even get into the trades,I’m currently making $20 a hour and still struggling, I’m planning on getting my cdl a and also apply to the trades union just to get ahead.I’m tired of working dead end jobs while the top guys get all the money and enjoy life!

[@tharris2853]

That sounds like a predatory loan Percy and his wife have.

[@spf_500]

It's a VA loan 👀

[@lynnjudd9036]

It does seem like a predatory loan. I have owned a house and a portion of the payment always went to the principal. I think they should consult an attorney about this.

[@myyt3824]

@@lynnjudd9036 you clearly don’t know how loans work. There are interest only loans. Where the entire payment literally goes solely to interest. They also probably had an adjustable rate loan where your payment can literally double when rates go up.

[@MrsBrownBombshell]

I couldn't imagine being early 20s carrying these types of loads wow. I hope everyone is doing much better in 2023!

[@HiltonRayKennedyIII]

I am doing much better. Thanks 🙏

[@drhops21]

I love these videos because people can see what the real world looks like in our beautiful country.

[@babbymissmiss]

I love Percy! He’s got some dance moves too!

[@DK_tk3]

This man took his opportunity’s. He doesn’t even realize it. He went on this show, he went to the protest, got noticed for his work. And now doubled his income. This is all the American dream is,it’s there for those who work for it.

[@trawrtster6097]

Yet there are people still working the same jobs at Walgreens because when he left that job, someone else probably took that position. Even if every single person in the US got a college degree and worked hard, there still will be people working minimum wage jobs. That’s why “hard work” isn’t the solution to the core problem

[@jollymollyramram9702]

@Scott - There are many examples of hard work not being sufficient to get you out of a rut.

[@crystalsswtor3760]

I'm glad for those it happens for, but for some of us, it doesn't always work that way even if you do work hard, I never get offers

[@kortniechannin492]

I love that y’all follow these stories with multiple videos/episodes!!!

[@GodsChild1159]

It seems Percy and Beverly were victims of predatory lending. Making payments for 13 years they shouldn’t still owe the original purchase amount!

[@MrTobytherat]

Thinking about it, that might be the case. It is hard for a lot of African Americans to get a mortgage from the large banks or big financial institutions. That is why home ownership for African Americans are so low. So it might be that predatory lenders are the only way to get a mortgage.

[@lhirsch1]

They mentioned they recently refinanced so they likely used their equity to lower their payments.

[@GodsChild1159]

@@MrTobytherat African Americans must do their research and make sure they understand how the home buying process works. Many people get variable rates instead if fixed which makes the payment go up later. Yet, lenders used tricks to get people to buy despite knowing they will lose their homes in the future. Then they foreclose and sell the house again. It’s possible for AA to own but we need to educate ourselves, make sure the payment is no more than 25 percent of your net income, have a savings for home repairs, and never refinance.

[@GodsChild1159]

@@lhirsch1 I thought they said they used the equity to remodel the home. I could be wrong.

[@kumi9479]

The family where the guy got the better job is a perfect example of why people in America never improve their situation and why there's no such thing as a "living wage" The more money people make the more they increase spending which means they're always going to think they need to make more money vs just living within a budget and spending less money. Just because you have slightly more money doesn't mean you need to run to the mall and immediately spend it. The same with the couple who bought that 330,000$ house, why buy something you know you can't really afford?

[@Nessaface02]

100% also not to mention like the couple buying the house wants to stay in the specific county that’s is too expensive. I literally moved across the country because I couldn’t afford to live and work where I grew up (SF Bay Area)

[@rzum81]

@@Nessaface02 I live in the East Bay and I agree with you. I’m hoping to move my family out of state in the next few years.

[@kevinmayer8055]

There's something wrong with an economic system that turns people into refugees in their own land. How can we ever learn to live with Earth if we cannot form enduring bonds with place? America has developed into a throw-away culture, and that is a big problem.

[@jeep19]

It's always people like you who want to impose & impart your financial frugality on others. People spend based on their wants and needs. You may save a pile, never spend it, and die leaving for someone else to spend. Whereas I may splurge and live off my good income, enjoying my life.

[@kumi9479]

@@jeep19 Thanks for just proving my point. Your exact attitude of overspending on WANTS is, again as I stated in my original post, why there's no such thing as a "living wage" people's wants will ALWAYS outpace their salary. You're right YOU have all the rights in the world to buy things you can't afford but what you don't have the right to do is visit your financial irresponsibility onto others by demanding minimum wage increases, with no end in sight, because of your WANTS which causes a wage spiral which leads to inflation that negatively impacts EVERYONE around you, including those people who are financially responsible.

[@Trust-de-process]

I was tired of minimum wage jobs getting minimum wage pay 12.45, 15/hr and then 13/hr . When i moved to Pennsylvania from nyc i decided i will get my cdl class b and become a transit city driver . I believe you get out what you put in life ... not everyody can attain a degree due to financial restraints but there are skills out there at all levels to choose from. My dream is coming to fruition and I'm almost done with my contract as a school bus driver so if you want to have a good income stop thinking burger king wages unless you own the franchise spot.

[@thisishowweroll8649]

It's great that DeJaun is making more money now and they are able to have some extras. But it would be great to hear him and his wife say "Now we can fund an IRA" instead of just "now we can go out, now we can shop".

[@dimediamond]

Yes

[@katydid2877]

Possible no one ever explained that to him. Financial classes should be required in high school. Practical live-your-life knowledge is more valuable than many of the classes they offer.

[@pure_sweetnes8685]

Have you ever thought to yourself maybe no one taught him about that?

[@Aya00303]

How do you know that’s not their plan? Since they never go out or have money for any type of shopping, they are happy that they can finally do SOMETHING for once. There’s nothing wrong with wanting a small slice of happiness after being miserable for so long. Stop trying to find something to complain about.

[@thisishowweroll8649]

@@Aya00303 Stop trying to tell me what to do. The nerve of you.

[@ReynaDPerez]

She’s very disrespectful to be honest. A relationship needs to have respect inside and outside the home. Just because she’s a counselor doesn’t give her the right to belittle him. She shouldn’t of married him if she feels he’s not good enough. The good looks go away, hopefully she didn’t marry just for that.

[@myyt3824]

I just can’t with her. Ugh.

[@terrywilliams9327]

My thoughts as well. I noticed his mom looking out for him during the closing. It felt like she had issues with the wife's attitude as well.

[@Mamablev]

She’s not good enough for him. He’s an awesome man & she’s a raging b!tch 😒

[@crystalsswtor3760]

I agree, she has an attitude, look lady you agreed to marry him and accept him as he is. He's that serious person, deal with it, that doesn't make him negative.

[@uwone7778]

Interesting to see 10 years later, these same workers are slowly getting displaced by robots.

[@leatharay3565]

This was 10 yrs ago…..I am telling you people there are a lot of hiring outside of memphis across the Miss line. Rent is not cheap but…..

[@sidehustlevikki1066]

It’s great seeing a video like this where the people actually overcome some of their difficulties. I think a lot of the people featured in this film could really benefit from being exposed to work opportunities outside of what they are use to and realizing how underpaid they are. Regardless of your education level if you have work experience or have worked at the same job for a long period of time that can and should be used as a bargaining tool when interviewing and searching for a new job. I love watching this series

[@DimaRakesah]

That might work for a few people, but it would not solve the overwhelming low wages and lack of opportunities many workers face as a whole. The problem is still the system. Wages are not keeping up, benefits are dwindling, retirement is being taken away from us, the price of everything is going up and up. No amount of bargaining or trying different types of jobs is going to fix this problem for the majority of people. There will always be those who have get the luck to get something better, because there isn't enough opportunity out there for everyone who deserves it.

[@MrBobbo18]

Hilton is the manifestation of “ winners do what others will not” I hope he’s drinking a beer watching his kids play in his backyard today.

[@rubygoesel1754]

I love this series ...I can't get enough of it ..please do a a recent update of the people

[@Meedster08]

I cannot believe Jose and Elizabeth purchased a 300k+ house with their combined salary… i hope they are doing well

[@spf_500]

Based on where they bought and the property values its probably worth a lot now

[@myyt3824]

@@spf_500 taxes are sky high too

[@jessealexander9074]

Shes an assistant principal now, she should be making way more.

[@TheAlanislinda]

I get Jose's point, i think I would be serious too in a moment like that, definitely not the time for laughs as it can be distracting of serious things in the contract that needs to be addressed

[@trackjosh]

I know it’s probably been said but, you gotta get your stuff together BEFORE you have kids.

[@lifevest1]

Indeed. But every time I bring up a “License to Breed”, I’m the bad guy!

[@temekarollins6007]

Elizabeth was living in a different reality and her fiance wasn't happy in any clip.

[@maldonal1891]

"I just want to live what everybody else lives..." Famous last words. 😬😬😬

[@joicarmel1]

I’m enjoying every installment ,well done,so many are struggling in this country😢

[@sincere531]

9% interest!!!! No principal reduction!!! Crazy

[@dimediamond]

That home was 79k. They did a loan modification? Not sure if they borrowed money off of the home but there is more to the story that's not being told. 79k is low for a home purchase.

[@byfaithwalking1529]

40:19 I know it's hard, but as often as you can, pay extra on the Principle!

[@loganz]

They have real low interest, its best to invest the extra money and get 6-10% interest year after year. Of course you would need to be disciplined to invest the extra money in the first place and avoid lifestyle creep.

[@trackjosh]

@@loganz I know it makes sense on paper, but having a paid off house is a better situation for most people, most people don’t know what or how to invest in anything.

[@daronperry4080]

Young man don’t let the anger drive you and don’t live to prove your dad wrong! You live to provide for your family and praise the most high! I mentored a young man just like you and he’s filled with anger and proving the world wrong and it’s blinded him from happiness and other opportunities

[@mirabella2154]

Don't agree. Anger can sometimes be used as fuel for success.

[@troylee4196]

Amen, very true response

[@tiffanycurtis4794]

I love Percy that dancin just made my day 🤣🤣🤣 hope he and his wife are ok 🙏🏿

[@Lemons19902010]

Same, I loved it, and he has great moves!

[@Tonyscasa]

DJ been doing what I’ve been dreaming of doing . Fighting for your worker rights

[@TheeSamuelNelson]

I’m sorry, but that miscarriage was a blessing in disguise. I know it’s rough to say. But they were too young and not ready financially

[@junglesuperstar9270]

I really wish you will lose a baby .

[@aliciamartinez853]

They ended up having another set of twins a few years later, Haylee and Kaylee. And then they are divorced now. Hilton is remarried with three other children and his ex-girlfriend (the twin's mom), is suing him for child support in the state of California.

[@chuckwicksimmons5813]

​@@aliciamartinez853Never mind at the end of your post you answer. My question I was trying to see if she had her babies in the US. Cause every time she got pregnant, she was always going back to California for medical.

[@zv3763]

Hilton was the hardest working and most difficult circumstances, felt sorry for him.

[@jodiecarlson6955]

Hilton nailed it when he said "in the US you need more. That's the problem." It's so true. We need more $$ for health care (LOTS more), it's very difficult to live without a car, housing costs are ridiculous yet we insist on having more space in our homes than we truly need. Internet costs more here than in many other countries. Just so many things that cost more, or we "need" to have more and bigger.

[@noulafrantz8589]

Thanks to all the staff who work behind thus great episode 👏

[@criessmiles3620]

Family connections are priceless From west Africa 🦅

[@freefromit2]

I was a union worker for 16 years, a union is you and all your coworkers united as one, not some mafia guy stealing money like THEY tell you. united you stand, divided you fall and have nothing.

[@nelliesmith5699]

I’m in shock that Hilton’s boss wouldn’t let him take one simple day off so he had to resign and then they couldn’t be bothered to have his last check ready?!

[@jenniferyoung8665]

You’re not a homeowner until you pay off your house until then bank owns your house

[@Kevin-ip8uf]

astounds me that percy has been paying his mortgage for 13 years and his principle loan is still the same amount. on a $75,000 house! my god my down payment was more than that! banks are crazy

[@GodsChild1159]

@@Kevin-ip8uf It’s called predatory lending. They should not owe the purchase amount after 13 years. It is vital that people do their own research before buying homes.

[@GodsChild1159]

@sir644 It’s true taxes are forever but so is rent.

[@myyt3824]

No, the government is one step from taking it when it’s paid off. It’s called taxes.

[@msfullroller]

This is due to the fact that the interest on mortgages (and on most loans for that matter) is front-loaded. In other words, all of the interest is at the front of the loan from day 1 to approx, years 20 in the case of a 30 year mortgage. Ex.If there is $10, 000 of interest on a $40,000 house, that $10,000 is what 99 percent of your payment goes toward in the 1st 20 years of the loan. the higher the interest rate the larger that chunk of your payment if for the interest. They changed to this structure for loans during the so called boom times of the 80s-90s as Americans were buying bigger homes on avg every 5-7 years and new cars every 2-3 years, as banks would make more vs when loans were simple interest loans, where the interest was evenly spread out for the duration of the loan. Banks used to give out the amoritization tables when you closed on your loan, but I think that stopped sometime in the late 90s or maybe earlier. Coupled with the fact that in the 80s and 90s Americans got comfortable with having debt (ie housing/student loans etc seen as "good debt", Lmao with that fallacy), that most did not pay attention to how much interest they were going to have to pay.

[@threethrushes]

Poverty takes many dimensions: material, spiritual, ethical, ambition. We can't change our starting point in life, but we can change our life trajectory as adults.

[@JasonNZ42]

“Hard Earned” features an original theme song, “Something to Believe In” by Grammy-nominated recording artist Aloe Blacc.

[@josi77]

How can you still have the same loan 79K after 13 years with 9% interest? I think they have been badly fooled and not understanding loan process.

[@Bebe.B.]

I love Percy so much!!!!

[@cedricliggins7528]

That generation is dying out.

[@everydaydadfixinit4803]

Mr. Percy and Ms. Beverly deserve peace in their lives

[@calipdis2]

Let hope hilton does not impregnate the woman again with that super insecure life... at least until he has something to back him and his family

[@breezluize3282]

Why would Hilton's manager even bother to offer him one or two weeks of leave to grieve the loss of his twins if it's going to be UNPAID?

[@troylee4196]

Complete disrespect imo

[@crystalsswtor3760]

you guys are absolutely right, now there is no loyalty at all anymore

[@veronicarenee91]

Can we talk about the intro song?! It's amazing 😍

[@ENDEVRDocs]

The opening song is by Aloe Blacc - an original song for the series.

[@charlottebreton6796]

When i feel down I watch this series to remind myself that my life aint that bad. I own my own place and make almost 100,000 a year, but it never feels like enough money. I couldn't imagine trying to survive off 15/hr.

[@MAGA4EVA1986]

Try being a nearly 40 year old fully disabled (in terms of rating) combat veteran who has to survive solely off of your VA disability which is only $3737/month. IT’S NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE….thats why I had to try doing Uber eats….but after almost 6 weeks of it, I realized overall it’s actually COSTING ME MONEY because I have to use a Jeep Grand Cherokee to do it and I spend more in gas than I actually make because I live in area that is around 50% black which means the overwhelming majority of deliveries I was taking were for NO TIP and Uber only pays their drivers $2-$3 per delivery even when it’s going 10-15 miles or MORE. So I ended up quitting it and now I’m back to having to live off my disability “benefits”. I don’t want this to come across the wrong way but between the physical pain I suffer with every single solitary day, and the stress of wondering how many days I will have to go without food each month….sometimes I wish I had never served my country because THE PRICE I PAID AND CONTINUE TO PAY WAS WORTH IT FOR THE COUNTRY…..BUT IT WASN’T FOR ME!! I will have gone 4 days without food by the time I get my disability check on Wednesday!!!

[@jenniferwilliams6494]

Listen, I'm with Jose. When you look at that final number and think I'm really paying them XXXXXX to get my home!!!!😩 But listen, if you can pay extra to pay it off early do it!!

[@jessealexander9074]

Hes a combat Vet too, he deserves better.

[@natalietitus3234]

Don’t buy that house Jose! Too much money! Ur setting ur self up for failure

[@awestavalentina4454]

My heart goes out to all the people involved. So courageous to show us this side. God bless y’all ❤❤❤❤

[@freegurl76]

This is such an emotional documentary! Starting with the intro song. Who is singing that song?

[@GodsChild1159]

I want to know the name and singer of the introductory song too. I love it.

[@rosed8691]

Fashawn - Something to believe in

[@freegurl76]

@@rosed8691 Thank you. I just purchased it on iTunes. Then it has Nas…OMG! 💣

[@hydroaegis6658]

The sad reality is that these jobs are not worth more. The task that needs to be done isn't worth the wage demanded, and the only reason it still exists is because someone is willing to take that low wage. Once no one is willing to do the work, it gets automated or innovated to obsolescence.

[@romanvanstaden4531]

I like Jose he knows if things go wrong, they won't be laughing, but show him the TC's and say to him there's nothing we can do

[@kamaka07]

Interesting and troubling at the same time. I realize this was 10 years ago but Jose is in trouble for a lot of reasons. He's intimidated by numbers and the numbers don't work in his favor especially since his wife makes more and at some point she's not gonna listen to him at all and throw it in his face. good luck with that.

[@TwinBleaks]

Percy was GETTIN IT haha! He looks fun, I'd love to dance with him!

[@stanktatiousd7732]

This was almost 10 years ago and things have gotten substantially worse since. This country is doomed unless someone loosens their grip and allows us to breath. People are sick, desperate, hungry, degraded, exploited, broken, and tired. The ones with the deck keeping all the aces and dealing off-suit low cards and expect us to keep playing. The flames will be beautiful

[@miknmas1301]

Watching Percy, the older black man dancing in his basement; a.k.a "man cave", was so wonderful. He was having such a good time showing out.

[@sandycheeks1580]

The house poor couple should ask their kids & working grandkids to chip in $20 a month to help them pay it off. It’s an investment for the entire family! Then they can remodel it into a duplex and rent out one side to pay for the entire duplex and the remodel.