Train Hopper interview-Bradley

Soft White Underbelly interview and portrait of Bradley, a train hopper currently in Los Angeles.
Here's a link to a GoFundMe campaign to help some of the people seen in SWU interviews: gofund.me/07701ccd
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[@laurawilliams6841]

As one of my daughter’s best friends growing up, Brad was at our house hanging out and sleeping over for years. I was so moved watching this video of Brad sharing his experiences train hopping and some of the traumatic experiences he and his friends on the trains experienced. Brad is an extremely kind, artistic, funny, and loving person. He recently reconnected with my daughter back home in Bakersfield. It was wonderful to see Brad. He has a job managing a restaurant and is healthy. He is still the same kind, creative and supportive person. I’m really proud of him. Just as he tried to help the people he met train hopping, he is a great supportive friend to my daughter encouraging her to make the changes she needs to make.

[@tinamariemiller.96]

Awwww I love u momma! Love ur comment!!🖤🩷🖤🩷

[@thebestseason5034]

I really like him, he’s smart and kind. I think he could go so far in the world and do great things. I see him in a mentor position for young people.

[@charsiu_808]

He seems so kind and thoughtful...i really would love to help him out In anyway possible

[@kelsey9605]

Just made a comment above basically saying the same thing!!

[@audiooverdose777]

One of my greatest friends! I used to run the streets with him back on the day until we all went separate paths in life. We call him Bird Dawg affectionately, rare soul in this world. Love him to death.

[@ThEnlightnd1]

He already is, this interview proves him a mentor, just under the table, free wisdom, with no monetary value, which is far more beautiful

[@oceanasong]

Another great interview. I didn't even know about this subculture. There are so many different groups of people that make up the fabric of this country. I hope Bradley can get his life stabilized, and that he can be treated for his post traumatic stress.

[@jamesmoriisumners9583]

In my younger days I was fascinated by the little graffiti marks they left on the freight cars. Just little humble creative insignias saying - "yo, I was here" , which for me was fascinating because big grandiose marks in this space just wasn't/isn't necessary. Fascinating albeit dangerous subculture.

[@dickdiamonds3410]

@@jamesmoriisumners9583 i disagree strongly. Big grandiose marks are definitely necessary for some people. Some people have a drive and a passion to leave those marks. They spend great deals of money and years of practice, not to mention the risk involved. What actually isn't necessary are the big grandiose marks of advertisers. Judging what isn't necessary for someone else is narcissistic af, and of course that includes me for judging advertising and capitalism, but I honestly don't care. Capitalist marks are anti human. Free art is pro human. What's your requirement for judging the size of graffiti in it's necessity? Small is good but big is bad? What size is your house and car?

[@jamesmoriisumners9583]

@@dickdiamonds3410 Actually, there might be a disconnect here. I believe we are actually on the same page my friend. I agree with you completely. I've lived in Tokyo for the last 20 + years and we have nothing like this. I graduated with a sculpture degeee. I guess what I wanted to say without setting standards for size is that seeing these tiny personalized tags had s profound effect on me. Albeit I was in a safe environment (Ashland, OR.) obviously far from the arena most of these narks were made, like viewing something unique in the safe sterile environment of an art gallery. Your rebuttal to my initial comments are very fair and I respect your position. I do in fact understand and respect the platform for larger works, in fact mural art such as Diego Rivera et al play a huge indisputable part if our culture. Basically my response was more rooted in the hyper-panic world of train hopping (which I have almost never experienced - at the cross country - life risking scale - but I have hopped s train in Seattle area) and how these small quick tags played a part in that speedy sub culture. Especially interesting was to see the same little top hatted insignia repeated multiple times on the same boxcar and the connecting ones. I hope this makes a little sense and definitely no disrespect to the larger works of which I do have great respect for. In fact there is a group in Portugal I believe who do reverse large scale graffiti works by removing dirt or grime from a large surface creating a kind of reverse image. CHEERS. James in Tokyo

[@marylougeorge9890]

@@jamesmoriisumners9583 I'm jealous of your living in Tokyo. I was born in the Musashino Red Cross Army Hospital. We lived in Kokubunji the first couple of years of my life. It's a beautiful place with a beautiful culture. I was able to visit 3 weeks in 1977.

[@tunabean2109]

I was apart of this subculture. Now I have a kid. It was fun and freeing, my train hoppin’ best bud and I live in the same neighborhood now and yesterday we were reminiscing about the times we hitchhiked and rode trains to see boys we liked across the country. I would quit my job in an instant to go with her whenever. I would love to do it again someday with my current partner.

[@jadedmonk7001]

@17:06 "Don't take your life for granted. Enjoy the little things for what you have. It could always be better and it could always be worse. That's what I've learned." Pearls of wisdom from the lips of an (old) youngster for sure. Excellent interview with Bradley, the "Sage of Trainhopping." Thanks for sharing. Stay safe on the rails until you find your forever train stop. Chugga chugga!🚂🛤

[@RailroadMan81]

Stay safe out there. As an engineer myself I’ve seen shit happen out on those rails, it’s a truly unforgiving environment. Been involved in major derailments and saw freight car stacked like toys, can’t imagine what would happen if someone was in one of those cars when the shit hit the fan. This guy seems like a really good dude, the kind I’d look out for if I saw him out there. He’s right, traveling by rail is unlike anything else, we go through some really beautiful countryside, only difference is in in the comfort of a dry locomotive cab lol.

[@xtinamarie_333]

Ever heard of LeeRoy Padilla??? ✌️

[@RailroadMan81]

@@xtinamarie_333 can’t say that I have.

[@kalanyou3275]

As long as you ain't I. A white SUV we all good. Thanks for what you do my fellow

[@RailroadMan81]

@@kalanyou3275 thanks brother, safe travels.

[@colewilliamson8230]

That's why the real ones hop in the DPU. Drive safe man.

[@44murdoc]

Love that you let people speak through pauses, with no interruptions

[@imjustme113]

Good kid. I really feel for him. He deserves more. I hope he finds housing.

[@cbean0017]

He will.🌞

[@4everhumbl36]

😉

[@matthewsparks8821]

good kid?? you look the same age thou

[@MineChanclas]

@@matthewsparks8821 ok, and....?

[@matthewsparks8821]

@@MineChanclas Not sure your demographics but calling someone kid is extremely disrespectful. Calling another person that would most likely end up in some type of physical altercation. Probably from the states

[@simon2428]

This is one of the most powerful interviews I have watched on here and the first that I have felt compelled to comment on, so much emotion and pain in his voice. I really wish Bradley all the very best for his future and hope he finds himself a good direction forward in his life.

[@ObiAmajoyiSrMD]

Great comment

[@tinamariemiller.96]

Hes doin really well. He’s clean now, has a job, & home. & is doin wonderful! 🤙🏼🤘🏼👍🏼

[@rubymoralesgoff1221]

It’s so hard being homeless I hate it… and my heart goes out to everyone who has ever experienced it. Thank you for sharing Mark

[@Madison.Rutherford]

If I didn’t have my car idk how I would’ve did it.

[@nunyabizwacks6711]

@@Madison.Rutherford tent on venice beach. They love it. Most want to be there

[@doit5084]

I was homeless for a week……horrible

[@Madison.Rutherford]

@@doit5084 shit ain’t fun.

[@lifebeginswithaseed]

He's experienced a lot of trauma. I can tell it's bothering him. He's blaming himself for some if it, and who could know these things would happen? It's not his fault. I pray he gets to talk it out, and gets help. Life is precious.

[@americandiablo]

Life kinda fucking sucks

[@michellewebb9393]

Lots of Love to you Mr.Bradley

[@tsahairutty2492]

Uhy

[@nunyabizwacks6711]

@@helenaneumann1872 hes high.

[@emmaherrick8472]

DQ²

[@LesAtlas]

When I was in my late teens I was stuck in a rust belt city in the Midwest. I wanted to go west, but with no money my only option was to hop freights. I went with a friend who used to work for Milwaukee Road, so he kind of knew what he was doing. We took the high line out of St Paul. Our train was busted up in Minot, ND, so we hung out there for a while. I remember Minot Louis and other town bums from back then. We then found a hot shot west, and had a great ride through Whitefish. Made it to Wenatchee, Washington and met an old timer who said nothing new was as good as steam trains. Our next ride west was started with a long tunnel on a flat car. We could hardly breathe. Finally made it to Seattle, where I still reside. It was the experience of my lifetime. I’m far from the Dirty Kid I once was, yet I still dream of the rails.

[@nicolestargell8323]

Thank you for telling your story. My daughter and I went on a trip with my 97 year old grandmother to Boston. She grew up in Rhodes Island. One night she just started telling us her story of getting on trains and going to to the next town to party with the young men there😳🤣😂. We were shook! She is a very prim and proper woman. We loved hearing her scandalous stories! I’m glad you didn’t wait until you were too old to tell about your journey. She left us this year at 99. So happy she told us about her train hopping days! God bless you on your journeys. May the gift of life compel you to hold on to the joy of life.

[@jamesmoriisumners9583]

Such a great viewpoint from a bygone era. Always a great deal to learn from similar actions that are taken in this period and to see and learn from similar actions taken in the past. So many parallels there. Fascinating topic here. BE SAFE OUT THERE TH's and as our well experienced friend here says, "listen to your more experienced comrades and don't end up like the Asian kid et al" Have a great adventure, BUT be smart and be safe ya'll

[@marylougeorge9890]

How cool! Her story would make a unique book.👍

[@JmarieD]

My dad, 85, had told me about train hopping even he was a young guy. He and his buddies would get on friend trains in Kansas and ride to the end of their line. Hang out and then catch the next one headed home. He also hitchhiked from Oregon to back home. I just can't imagine!

[@philharris53]

Very sobering interview. He's got a real good shot at getting the life he wants. I hope his circumstances will lead him to that life and not the one he fears.

[@marshal4623]

You can still go to college Bradley, and you should. I went to college in my 30's to get my first degree. Barely finished high school, but going back to school changed my life completely. (Still got 2 years to go.) Your'e young, younger than me that's for sure. You can make it brother. I'm rooting for you.

[@kimlarso]

Goid 4u=Age is a State of Mind=Got my Bachelor of Science @36 and my Nursing @48=Rock On! 🦋

[@chelseacleary8808]

I totally agree! Also, way to go! I also got my bachelor's at 32. I'll tell you what, there is a different level of appreciation for anyone living in the real world and making it on their own while busting their hump to battle demons, pursue a dream, and achieve a goal! At that age, often times that comes while holding down a family and trying to make rent in a rundown trailer owned and rented out by a slumlord. However, it tastes all the sweeter in the end! Way to go everyone! Keep working hard and fighting on!

[@chelseacleary8808]

@@user-wb9rq5nn2e I added the slumlord part because I unfortunately had to deal with that quite often when I rented various places. Just my own personal experiences I guess. Not sure why you think I'm backing the infinite numbers of fake jobs. I feel those fake jobs have contributed to the deterioration of society, among other things. I'm a logger and tree climber that busted my ass to slowly but surely go through school to get a forestry degree. That has helped me be able to start my own operation and work self sufficiently doing timber harvests AND become licensed to create forest management plans. Nothing fake about forest management and the wood products industry. We all use and rely on wood as an important natural resource.

[@garymcgeorge7657]

You’re probably never going to run into this kid again mark. Help him out

[@oiitzME1266]

fact

[@Arthurian.]

This "kid" makes these choices too live this life. Why don't YOU help him out?

[@taq2day]

Too many people in this world who need and deserve help but cat can’t get it, it’s not Mark’s job to offer that and how would that be fair to all of the other people in terrible situations

[@keonghadamyari5284]

@@Arthurian. He said he dropped out of high school when he was 17. 17 is a kid. He may not be anymore, but once you start going down the path he has, it’s not exactly easy to turn your life around without support. Why don’t YOU try showing a little empathy and try to understand his perspective because that’s what this channel is all about.

[@Arthurian.]

@@keonghadamyari5284 invite him to live with you, get his life going on the right direction. You have no life experience, and it shows.

[@tleigh8794]

What a sweet, tortured soul. I hope and pray that Bradley gets his housing sorted out, finds some good paying work and stabilizes... Before the streets or drugs cause him more pain, 🙏🙏😘 my heart goes out for him, like he was one of my younger brothers.... Stay strong, stay focused, Bradley.. You can do it❣️ We are all rooting for you... Tara🇨🇦

[@SeanApplePie]

🙌

[@virginiacopeland7139]

Brad you have a sad look on your face. You're smart man U can get off the streets. Get your life together my friend. You're young and you have time to make your life better and show your family that you can do it

[@marylougeorge9890]

@@virginiacopeland7139 Yup. He's not too old to get an education and start a new life.

[@abelmcguire1951]

@@marylougeorge9890 Forgive yourself B my friend and let it go you've experienced all the pain one kid can handle, start with a pure passion no matter what it is!

[@marylougeorge9890]

@@abelmcguire1951 Eh?🤷

[@Kasdaniel]

Powerful story, you can see the pain in this man's heart and face, he should write a book, I wish him the best, thank you for sharing this video, and all of your videos, they've changed my life and worldly perspective massively.

[@birdflipper]

I'm curious, how have these videos changed your life perspective?

[@Kasdaniel]

@@birdflipper Thank you for asking, I hope you're question is genuine and not coming from a place of condescension, they've made me realise that my life hasn't been as difficult and challenging as so many faces on this channel in particular, its put into perspective that we all suffer in our own ways, my own mental health isn't fantastic, the video on BPD was particularity interesting one for me personally as I can empathise with him considerably, listening to how people revert back to type in crisis', things such as these make help me understand how similar we all truly are.

[@birdflipper]

@@KasdanielThank you, I appreciate your honest response. I can very much relate.

[@Kasdaniel]

@@birdflipper I wish you luck in all of your endeavours stranger.

[@jp9er4life]

Thats not pain.thats fentanyl....

[@keithgabbard4816]

Dont know why exactly but out of the many interviews that have been done and out of the many stories that have been told I feel drawn to this guy . I could genuinely like him . He is a person worth knowing and you come away enriched for doing so I feel .

[@peninahwambui308]

I feel the same way.

[@libertylady4041]

Have you interviewed any carnival workers? If not I think that would be very interesting The fair has rolled into our small town and I see some very sad hurt people working those rides Love all of your interviews - makes me more grateful for my life And also we adopted and are foster parents makes me even more aware of love , patience, kindness and attention to these little people

[@chelseacleary8808]

Excellent suggestion! Fair season is rapidly approaching all throughout the country. A few carnie interviews would be awesome for people who haven't lived or aren't aware of the lifestyle. A lot of close ties and overlap with the train hopper and folk punk/gypsy punk culture. Which would also make for some great interviews! I could honestly recommend some fascinating individuals who I've encountered and shared past experiences within that lifestyle.

[@Alexandria250]

Definitely

[@joesmith4050]

Great suggestion!

[@decapitateallcops3214]

Carnies are fucked. I would love to see them on here. Them and native Alaskans.

[@RAE.ofSunshine]

So true. Had a good friend go on vaca with her fam went to a carnival, found a (addict) carni, brought him home(!), moved him in and within 3 months she was also addicted to H shooting it up. Sad

[@shockwave2k]

That last statement from him, truly summed up life.💯

[@justinmackie23]

One of the better episodes lately. Crazy life to live in 26 years. Be well Bradley!

[@IDK-kv8ob]

BRAD IS A GOOD PERSON. If you can't see that then you are blind.

[@BlueVVaffle]

You’re a fool

[@casiegoon1959]

Can I get an AMEN??!!!🖤🤘🖤

[@nunyabizwacks6711]

you cant see that anyone on earth is a good person from a 17 minute video. If you cant see that, your naive

[@garymcgeorge7657]

I loved a very similar life. Traveling following music. I know this kids life because I’ve lived with train hoppers. For the most part they are amazing people. I love this interview. I hope god washes you clean and you live a healthy life my friend.

[@JenDoe1]

I’m happy to see another train hopper interview Mark! They see so much that many of us never see. A fascinating life that can lead to a lot of trauma.

[@blaze3fire]

Out of all the interviews I’ve watched, I’ve never wanted to just hug someone, chat with them and let them know someone can understand so much. Bradley, I wish you all the best life has to offer and all the Blessings you can handle. Thank you for opening up and sharing your story with Mark and the rest of us… Your light reaches 💫 🌟

[@melissaromero5989]

The best thing he ever did was to leave Bakersfield, that place is hell on earth. I wish him all the best. He's well mannered, speaks eloquently and still young enough to have the life he deserves 🙏

[@froandcara]

Meth land

[@shonavarney366]

Up there as one of my fave interviews on this channel. Thank you Bradley for sharing your story and offcourse to Mark for giving him the opportunity to share his story. Much respect to both from Scotland.

[@peach_ringz_4evz]

I dated someone from the Haight street scene. Train hopping is alive and well, a lot of really young people do it. The lengths literal children go to in survival are pretty astounding from the outside.

[@KatJ3st]

Sadly they stay children till they die, usually young

[@Mralex3281]

What exactly is train hopping?

[@jadedmonk7001]

@@Mralex3281 Jumping/traveling and hiding in boxcars from town to town; city to city; and many times state to state

[@nocturnalme3549]

What all the youth need to know , is if you decide or have to hit the great wide open you need to take care of yourself. There's going to be no mercy at some point so have protection. Also money isn't everything, but it's the only tool out there that will get you out of a bad spot. If you choose to live a renegade lifestyle make sure you have some money, it's all fun and games until you end up on skid row sick and hungry. If you ever end up there your going to have to fight your way out. Drugs will sink you, and take hold so it's recommended not to partake. Imo go after the money, not because it's meaningfull but because it will give you a cushion and some power. Then go after the experience. This world seems to run off a structure. Some people because of their personalities or looks or skills can avoid the pitfalls many of us face, but don't count on that. Find personal strength and stability then take on the world and all it's experiences. Don't count on others to always be there, some will stay but many will go more than you expect . Some things in life have a timeframe, and will not last. Find love, love can conquer all.

[@morgenmachen2400]

@@nocturnalme3549 I wish I'd read this as a young person. Id love it if you reposted outside of the thread, I think a lot more people need to hear it.

[@sofia6791]

Such a beautiful beautiful soul. I wish him the very best, he seems like he can turn his life around completely. He can do wonderful things. Gods speed Bradley

[@nikki.23]

Bradley, your a dope soul and seem to be a fellow empath. In hindsight I see how lucky I was when traveling for a season.. Stayed with a couple who hopped freight back in the day out in long beach for a couple weeks, met them on the streets in Hollywood when I was traveling on foot / by bus for a short while @17 and made my way up to SF after they told me about the hellarity house in Oakland. . Melanie and Jason, thank you for showing us such hospitality being cool af solid individuals, it's been a long while but I'm forever grateful you 2 were a huge positive part of that journey that impacted my young life so heavily.

[@494ava]

When I was a kid I would hear stories from relatives of train hoppers and their groups. It was a lifestyle that seemed to be free without responsibilities as jobs bills and other normal things we as folks did on a daily basis. I guess it’s the downside I hadn’t heard of. To think those communities are still out there is intriguing and interesting to know what keeps them going. Blessings to you all and be safe on your journey. Prayers for All of you!🫶🏽🚞

[@sn3akydna314]

No one cares

[@xxxx-rn3yu]

You must have dissatisfied with something going on in your life to be so resentful over a harmless comment LMAO

[@tunabean2109]

We lived in a punk house were there were 5 rooms and the rent was $500. So we always hitched places to make rent money which was under $100. I would quit my jobs to go train hopping with my best bud and roommate, just to see boys we were interested in. We had a lot of fun and we also hitch hiked everywhere. I now have a 2 yr old and partner but me and my old best bud live in the same neighborhood and romanticize about the times we were so free and everything was so damn cheap. It was 2007. I would love to do it again with my current partner. It’s a little more dangerous these days since the internet has been in our pockets. Anyways take care!

[@martinmummert5614]

The most famous, modern-day train hopper is probably Spoon Lady. She has a very interesting KZbin channel. She spent years hopping trains, but now focuses on making music. VERY sweet lady.

[@amycarvosso7594]

'I would have finished school for sure... There's things I've seen that I wish I could unsee' Education is one of the most important things we can offer to members of our society. A huge shout out to the teachers who see this value and contribute to it. You are the true heroes 💖

[@Timschannel2]

School is indoctrination not education.

[@Timschannel2]

I graduated in the top 10% of my high school class madam. 3.7 GPA and not once did I take a book or any school work home. Smoked weed everyday and drank every weekend. In school, the best at memorizing, become validictorians. The most important lesson I learned is that schools indoctrinate our youth so they will get an occupation(stay occupied not be critical thinkers), and not question authority figures(doctors, police, and teachers like yourself). Not boasting, cause I hated school. The best part was partying with my friends. Now I encourage young people to have fun and I promote anarchy.

[@JmarieD]

It would do him good to get a GED. He would feel accomplished.

[@chelseacleary8808]

@@Timschannel2 Amen brother! Well said! Not a word from me to add; you summed it up perfectly!

[@jujujouet7944]

Hearing the upside of train hopping from Bradley when he described watching the landscape go by on the train w/ a smile, was upbeat. Reminded me of Jack Kerouac's "The Dharma Bums" although sure that was a more humane era to be a travelling gypsy soul. This is one of my favorite lines from "On the Road": "The only people for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to live, mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time, the ones who never yawn or say a commonplace thing, but burn, burn, burn like fabulous yellow roman candles exploding like spiders across the stars and in the middle you see the blue center light pop and everybody goes Awww!" - Jack Kerouac, On the Road

[@terariabros8725]

His books were my inspiration to hop freights. I’d love to take my son someday. It’s a beautiful journey.

[@gypsykillabryan933]

Sending you hope and strength Brad stay strong, you’re a great man

[@Thelasthoward]

I’m a regular working 9-5 guy. But I always thought it would be interesting to Trainhop for like a couple days. I think I want to experience that level of Freedom.

[@undrtow0515]

Damn this dude is fascinating and can tell a damn good story.

[@truesavings1988]

Praying this man gets all the good things in life. I can hear how genuine he is, he’s an old soul.

[@KarinCrona]

Poor guy, being young and full of adventure and throwing yourself into all this. I also wish he could unsee things, and still I see everything he is telling in front of me like a movie. He looks like a young Christopher Walken. He has such a sad face it breaks my heart.

[@cyberknife82]

I find train riders fascinating because for the time they are riding I imagine they experience total freedom.

[@deerski4426]

One time my neighbors Dad gave him $10 to go to the hardware store when he was a young kid to get some nails. Instead he hopped a train and ended up in Oklahoma. When he called home 2 weeks later all his Dad said was " I guess you didn't get the nails huh?" 😂

[@wesleyalan9179]

🤣

[@terrytownsend5583]

Feel free to make that up

[@marylougeorge9890]

😂👍

[@deerski4426]

@@terrytownsend5583 hmmm, I'm gonna go out on a limb here, but, I'm gonna guess your a Glass is half empty kinda guy. 🤣 But nevertheless, it is indeed a true story. 👍

[@dannykicks603]

@@deerski4426 loved it. Thank you. I can see his Dad now..

[@nocturnalme3549]

Tell him to write his stories in a book. Sounds like he's had many serious situations and would be a story to tell..it can help with his trauma and healing by putting it down and releasing the story to the world. Also try some mushies, it can help to get over the trauma.

[@xkcd5676]

I'm a truck driver I'm actually taking a load to that Walrmart in Roseville today. That's crazy, I've parked there and walked over the freeway to go to in n out in the middle of the night, I never would have thought there would be gangs of train hoppers there, it looks like a good area.

[@jonirnmomba4130]

I grew up about 45mins East from Bakersfield and it is a big train community. I knew several people that would hop trains while we were in school. The stories always were fascinating.

[@mortalv3792]

Strong kid .. wish him the best . Thank you for sharing Mark .

[@earugo2531]

I've been housed for 9 years now. 44 years old. From 19 to 35 I traveled around. Trains, hitching and even had my own wheels sometimes. It was amazing and I was healthy. Ther are most certainly dangerous things to encounter out ther but it is foolish to think it's somehow safer to have a job and home . . . I am happy wher I am tho. And I wouldn't change anything now or from my past.

[@maximeanselot3007]

Wow! The story of the dude cut in half is hard

[@user-randi1987]

I hope Bradleys housing comes through for him. He definitely needs a place to rest and recover from some of the things he has experienced.

[@lilman0820]

Seems like such a nice guy That has been thru a lot . He carries blame he shouldn't just from things he seen but could not stop . I hope he gets some counsling and finds housing . He has a lot of life ahead of him .. I wish him the best

[@khaneclark5671]

Wish this kid well. Watching this sleeping in my van, your only young brother and you have more to give than many

[@RUREDY2ROK]

Genuine. I love these interviews. When he said Roseville he hit home. These interviews are a learning experience.

[@danielgaytan3167]

" Life is more precious than anyone knows" is right! I've seen some shit out on the rails bubba. Hope that ptsd dont mess u up too much. Remember we're still kicking it. Hope you find peace brother

[@TheNinnyBug]

I would love an update on Bradley in a few months and I hope he's in housing by then. He has a huge heart, and he deserves a lot better than he's gotten so far in life. Makes my heart hurt as a mother to see someone else's son so down and out 🥺

[@SageandDust]

Thank you for sharing your story man. I knew a lot a people who lived similar lives while I was back in Reno. Sending respect, sending love.

[@sunray8136]

Before he got into the more serious experiences he had I could see on his face he had been thru some heavy stuff. Stay safe

[@sleepygirl8005]

One of the most interesting interview iv heard this far, he is really well spoken and when he told stories i felt as if i was there. You can tell he has seen and experienced alot in this life and i wish him the best ❤️

[@leanneadams2549]

Seriously ?!? He watched a girl get raped and did NOTHING!!! Your standards are freaking low !!!! If you think he’s a great guy !

[@sleepygirl8005]

@@leanneadams2549 they said they were beat up dumb fuck obviously outnumbered

[@ironpirate8]

@@leanneadams2549 He said he had just been beaten to the ground and was being held down. You're making it sound like he had a choice to help.

[@Thestarandswords]

Thank you for sharing your experiences Bradley! What a fascinating yet traumatic life you’ve lived. You painted quite the vivid picture. I hope you find peace and happiness in your life.

[@NM-cf6ew]

He seems like a good kid hopefully he can find the support he needs

[@karencristobal4999]

Mark. I avoided these for a long time. Too hard. But I’ve been diving in and it isn’t just the lack or the problem you are illuminating but it’s oddly hopeful too! You are shining a light on the beauty of being self possessed too. It’s hard to put into words but bottom line you’re ability to interview is brilliant. You are brilliant and your work speaks for itself. 👏👏👏

[@mcbeav]

Would love to see another interview like this. This is a life I almost chose to live at one point. Thanks for the great content.

[@theranger311]

Mark,,, please reach out to this kid and help him… I can hear the pain in his voice, he’s worth saving,,,, please

[@diannh2894]

I used to go train hopping when I was 16! Many memories made- some bad, some good. But most of all, I've learned so much from experience. He seems like a really cool dude and I wish him the best.

[@tamarshaddeau5098]

This individual is authentic and has great strength in his sensitivity. Time to land.

[@RockinDbop1]

Bradley "They pinned us down...and they did things to her...i ruined two young peoples' lives." Mark: "What happened?"

[@hezzycatasmr1886]

I'm grateful to hear your story, Bradley. You have such a powerful story and I hope you find some peace and happiness

[@martinamcmayo3826]

He is so nice and caring. Good young man. I wish I could help him. I will donate to Go Fund me. I hope he is OK. My heart hurts for him. He experienced a lot of trauma.

[@sidharthwarrier9001]

Mark, you have GOT to interview him again .

[@jrod4582]

Keep these videos coming, your work is amazing.❤️👍🏽

[@chelseacleary8808]

I can actually feel this man's pain, trials, and tribulations. Such a genuine guy. No doubt in my mind that he rises above and makes it out for the better and stronger on the other side! I really hope that he can continue talking, working hard, and having honest conversations that help him open up, heal, and battle through these experiences and current times. This man deeply deserves to feel peace, happiness, and content. Something about him really strikes me. I'm rooting for Bradley. He CAN do it!

[@susannes3254]

It’s remarkable how all that He’s been through and seen, and his heart seems to have stayed so pure and tender. He cares so much and felt deeply for everyone he lost or saw suffer. As another person commented, I think Bradley could write an amazing book telling his story and experiences living on the tracks. I had never heard of this and thoroughly enjoyed his story and the humility and gentleness he exhibits. He’s got huge potential and a lot to give and share in this world and I pray that God shows Bradley His love and opens a door of opportunity to help him into a new path to housing and a job and career that he finds joy in. God bless you Bradley for sharing and I hope you can stop carrying blame for the others who were hurt or killed, and take care of YOU. You have your whole life ahead still and I wish you all the best.

[@user-sh2mk8ew4c]

I have been fascinated by Train hoppers for years. My city is a major train hub. I met some kids in Downtown 1 day while on my lunch break. Spoke with them. I thought to myself “I’m quitting my job and train hopping”. 😂🤣

[@tinamariemiller.96]

That’s my best friend right there!! He’s my brother I’ve known him for over 14 years & to everyone who commented these nice comments & want to the best for him: yes he has turned his life around! He’s clean now, he has a job & he’s doing really well! 👍🏼🤘🏼🤙🏼☠️🫡

[@evanosek562]

Wow what a guy, fearless and free..Really hope he can realize his own potential , change his path in life.Wish him only the best.

[@jen-ms4xo]

I watched this after it had been out for juss 2 hours the 1 thing that saddened me was that he mentioned the beauty in the landscape but he didn't describe anything he saw he juss spoke so down he's got a lot of potential and he could go far in this world if he juss looked up

[@Ms.Yana83]

Interesting interview. He mentioned his mom just purchased a house. I hope he reaches out to her for help instead of staying homeless.

[@phoenixwillington7329]

He’s a beautiful soul, very humble. I hope his situation gets better and finds a way to finish school so he can do whatever career path he chooses. I also hope he gets the supports he needs for dealing with the trauma that he experienced throughout his life. He deserves the world tbh.

[@carolynrupard2699]

I hope he can get help for his trauma. Such a young soul. I wish him the best. Prayers for him.

[@jesserhodes7430]

thats tough bro, keep living the dream and fighting the struggle Bradley. you'll make it to where you want to go, you'll find your place in the world. just keep one foot in front of the other and never stop dreaming.

[@dakotablue3366]

I like this guy a lot, he could write a book, then again couldn't we all.

[@katelynharwood9830]

This kid breaks my heart…I hope he finds happiness

[@quokka1831]

I didn’t even know people still do this in the us. I want to know more about his story, his adventure are so dangerous yet intriguing.

[@myeyeswentdeaf6213]

You can just look up train hopping KZbinrs. There’s a few of them. You can watch how they hop trains and all.

[@Timschannel2]

Yard buzzards is a good one. Also Human cargo

[@michaelk2928]

Search for Hoboshoestring on KZbin.

[@starship2235]

GIFGAS YT channel

[@leanneadams2549]

Intriguing? Watching a girl get raped and doing nothing you call intriguing? More like disgusting!!!!

[@bigdrefromthebay6475]

Train hopping is a forgotten passion . I used to do small distances . Never across state lines and it’s the most exhilarating experience I’ve ever had .

[@_reyblanco]

I think I’ll stick to Amtrak lol

[@_reyblanco]

One of the best interviews 👏👏👏

[@cjtrickstar6060]

Wonder if its as bad as he makes it seem. Looks like a war veteran

[@bigdrefromthebay6475]

@@cjtrickstar6060 it’s absolutely as bad as he makes it seem , if not worse .

[@noelliebtsie]

@@cjtrickstar6060 You wonder if seeing rape and violent death is bad? I think so... (if people regularly toured slaughterhouses we'd have a few more vegans in our ranks.)

[@simonbletsoe7059]

Thankyou for sharing your experiences, Bradley. I wish you well. Peace.

[@danrumble74]

Thank you for the interview, Bradley. I've been curious as to how train hopping is. You gave me some insight into it that most of us wouldn't have otherwise. Good luck man 👍

[@eirikrdberg1161]

It would be amazing to do this in America. The distances you can travel is wild. I wouldn’t do it unless I was with a crew of no less than four people I trusted and liked.

[@Timschannel2]

I did it solo. Best time of my life!

[@bsohre1703]

When you're hopping a train 2 is a crowd.

[@Phillyphil123]

Honestly don’t ever wait for others to travel. The perfect moment, people, and situation never occurs. Just take the leap of faith. I road tripped across the U.S. solo, one of the best trips of my life. Backpacked around SE Asia solo for 7 months and met some of the nicest people, locals and fellow travelers.

[@baublesanddolls]

Bad idea!! Not only is it dangerous, but most of the locomotive engineers are intoxicated. Believe me, I lived it. It's dangerous for the hopper, but don't forget about the derailments and 10,000 other things that go wrong. Your life is more important.

[@eirikrdberg1161]

My point is that here in Norway you can do the same thing, but the distances are never to be compared with northern america. If you have a little money and choose to bail, you can get your asshome pretty quickly opposed to northernamerica where if you fall a sleep for a night you could travel twice as far as any railroad can lead you here in Norway. So, it is damned safe in comparison here and the chance of meeting bad ass gangaters close to zero here.

[@Blissful_Sahasrar]

I hired out as a switchman for the BN in 1972, later on took the promotion to conductor until 2004 when I went on pension. 32 years of riding the rails provided many experiences, some of which came with luck, others not so much. A fellow conductor and close friend went through brain mapping for theraputic reasons. He was told by a therapist that we folks that operate the trains all seem to have PTSD. No doubt trainhoppers do as well.

[@dannykicks603]

Why would the conductors have PTSD? Serious question. What y’all see? Sounds really interesting. I spent my whole adult life travelling

[@dannykicks603]

@@annemarieshanahan642 I should have thought of that strait off the bat.. it’s a given.

[@RailroadMan81]

@@dannykicks603 seeing people die right in front of you knowing there’s nothing you can do to stop it.

[@lennylenn4009]

Blessings to him i hope he finds his way in Life. I am soon to be 56yrs old BUT this young man has seen done way more than i have in his young Life Sending Prayers🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@ontime7482]

Bradley, stay up man. You got a good head and your young. Lots of life ahead of you. It’s never too late to start over…

[@mattattack713]

This guy seems good hearted. Seems like he could really use someone to talk to. Hope things look up for him

[@gravy2973]

Brad looks exhausted. I cant imagine the energy you have to expend just to survive in this situation, not only for Bradley but for the majority of people Mark shines a light on ....

[@jamesmoriisumners9583]

This topic is fascinating. Like any human addiction be it drugs, sex, or hopping a freight train (in America) I believe we see the inherent dangers in all addictions. I certainly don't poise to judge, simply an observation through many tell tale stories. Thank you always to interviewer and interviewee alike for your fearless courage to bring this content forward for our heartfelt examination wether any of it is something we ourselves have experienced or not! What an amazing HUMANIST space 👏

[@handmadeiowa]

Great interview! Great story teller. I'd love to see more of him. I hope you are able to help him get his life together. Thank you!

[@Toeskknows]

Thanks for making my morning a little more interesting with these different peoples stories

[@kirkrowland1335]

Order a latte

[@superdupersnowflake]

I had a few friends that train hopped. Lots of beautiful photos and stories. But I remember they told me about all of the dangers , dangers of other people , and dangers of the train police.

[@Tpot7690]

I really enjoyed this one, he seems very genuine. I hope things begin to look up for him.

[@chasecarter1170]

Life based around the rail system in America, something 99.9999999% of people will never know or understand. 95+% of people don't even realize this entire culture exists just beneath the surface. All we want is a free ride sometimes, bring nothing but positive energy on the rails when you go out, if you can manage that. Having patience is the major thing, it spills over into every other aspect of life once you are out here for awhile. BNSF Union Pacific and CSX have provided many free rides, beautiful and brutal experiences to me over the years. Nothing like a sunset out west going 40-60mph on a freight train. Life slows to a crawl sometimes and sometimes it goes by faster than a blink of your eyes.

[@cp-skii5332]

Being from nyc ,I’m considered to be a professional turnstile hopper myself

[@phillyry]

As am I in Philly

[@myeyeswentdeaf6213]

Same here. NYPD has got me labeled as a ‘Transit Recidivist’. 🤷‍♂️

[@tiffanyrosario6874]

Me too it to much for a ride in NYC

[@trip2belize]

train hopping sounds liberating in a way, I'm sure it's not, though.

[@myeyeswentdeaf6213]

Transit Recidivist means you got in too much trouble too often in the subways so you will never get another summons in the subway. If they catch you doing anything at all or even if they just run your name they have to arrest you.

[@Krulle37]

I have always been intrigued by the train hopping lifestyle. These stories are way more interesting than the 100th fentanyl addict who blames everyone but themselves for their misery. Hope Bradley finds housing. Take care dude

[@rae3356]

Fair enough but I don’t think most of them blame others. A few do but most are humble and self aware

[@Krulle37]

@@rae3356 Ye, I'm not saying theyre all the same.

[@Happy_Spatula]

The fentanyl epidemic is pretty brutal, hard to see. It's good to see new angles. Like that dirty cop or the good cop recently. Unusual perspectives make you think

[@AdaptiveApeHybrid]

Ever read the autobiography You Can't Win? It's about a man who was a cat burglar and traveling hobo who went by the pseudonym Jack Black. I implore you to read it

[@AdaptiveApeHybrid]

@@Happy_Spatula gaining the perspectives of others is priceless imo. Well said.

[@aneal191]

I wish this interview was longer. Seems like an interesting dude.

[@froandcara]

Loved this one. With this type of trauma comes with a lot of emotional intelligence. He’s very wise. Hoping he gets to enjoy some of those details in life here on out.

[@RadRedhead222]

I’m starting to see a lot of this “Dirty Kid” movement. I can’t for the life of me understand why someone would prefer to travel, homeless, around the country. I hear them say it’s better than four walls any day. I can’t imagine being hungry, dirty, not knowing where to sleep or go to the bathroom. Thank you, Mark!

[@Mint-kj9kw]

@@hennagaijin7856 Yep....I've NEVER had a 9-5 job (I'm 46) except for 7 mos out of my life. 9-5 jobs are prison.

[@lynnehuff9659]

I've never head of it. I know in some parts of the world they called homeless children "street Arabs" that was a long time ago. Imagine being part of a movement called "Dirty Kids".