My father was a coal miner here in PA in his younger years. “It’s dark as a dungeon and damp as the dew. Where dangers are doubled and pleasures are few. Where the rain never falls and the sun never shines. It’s dark as a dungeon way down in the mines”. So much respect for this man.
grandfather was a coal miner in PA, salute to your dad hardest working fuckers ive ever met. my grandpa gave me my first beer at 14 and told my dad "he dont look like a pussy let the kid have a beer" miners are the most down to earth people ever
Please do more on men of industry like miners oil rig workers and other dangerous jobs dominated by men that are hidden from the internet and the world
Most of us are in WV. I have a HS diploma but started working at 14. Bought my first car that year and spent that year fixing it up. I was considered a man at 10 years old and treated as such. Loved my life. Mom was a housewife and dad was a machinist. Dad took me hunting and fishing. Mom took me to Church every Sunday. My wifes a housewife and Im a security guard. I was a machinist for 20 years but Obama shut our shop down in 2013. My dad was still working at his in his 70s. His shut down for the same reason. Hate whats going on in this country today. I pity those who dont live in Appalachia. Life here is good and so are the people.
My dad was a hard coal miner. He died in 1948 at the age of 42, leaving our family destitute. Mom went to work and raised sis and me , all by herself. Mom is gone, sis is gone . I'm 77 and soon cancer will take me.
The town I live in is an old mining town with small subsections where different mines used to be a long time ago. All the mines were numbered and the place I live is known as Reitz #3.
His face is just covered. I can’t imagine how hard his job is. But he’s passionate about his job and he works for every dollar. God bless him and his brothers down there.
@@Donald_Dump420 You are seriously deluded if you think he has come straight from the mines, face still covered in shit, to do this interview. Your thinking is shared by 90% of the worlds population and it is what is everything wrong with the world this present day. Just stop and think ffs
Seems like a dream job... it’d be a lot of fun finding these people & being able to learn about them personally. We’re blessed this man simply records his encounters and gives them to us
@@bendial1539 Have you ever worked in a mechanic shop dumbass? Sweat leaves very distinct sweat marks when it goes through the ash. And everyone with IQ over 5 wont touch his mouth with black hands.
EXACTLY! Evil people in power force us to rely upon technology that we've already evolved past. They don't care about the destruction or devestating effect it has on human beings alongside our planet. Balance, sustainability & solution are everything right now. Much respect for choosing to be logical and aware while simultaneously hoping the best for your fellow human beings. Rare 💯🌎🙏
Im 21 years old, I was a Masonry laborer/apprentice for 2 years, and my lungs hurt every day. Tough work, makes a boy into a man, but dying ain't much of a living. I couldnt imagine working in mine for life. That man, and men like him are what keep us afloat. Bless him
Most miners don't get to retire they die of lung diseases. The coal industry will soon be finished, I hope that new industries will come to the area so people can make a living.
My Grandfather started working in his Father's masonry business when he was 11 years old and worked it until he retired at the age of 67. He had sandpaper for hands and a grip that was just insane! And since we're in the south, he had one hell of a tan as well. When I was 14 years old I helped him and my Father put a roof on a small workshop he was building. I remember him taking his shirt off during the day and noticing that he had one hell of a six pack! lol In the early 00's, I was looking for a new job and he called me up and offered me a job. It was strange because he practically told me NOT to take it but if I was desperate, he'd hire me. Needless to say, I understood what he was getting at and decided to take another job instead. He later told me that he never wanted his family to do the work he had done his whole life. He's 79 years old today and you can see the toll that work has left on him.
I would pitch in. I could be wrong so please correct me if I am.. but I don’t think they make money anyways. Hard working people like this deserve good things.
In my country (Australia) we Respect people like this alot more than some prick with a degree, BUT they/we (Im a Truck driver) also earn good money thanks to our Labour Party / Unions (National minimum wage /compulsory superannuation and strong workplace laws , You work hard you deserved to be compensated ..this is what is lacking( not preaching) in workplaces in the US where unions are not prevelant or have no powers....
Yep so was my grandpa. He had 5 kids including my dad and they all grew up in scranton PA. My grandpa had a little bit of black lung but it didn't kill him. He died at 75/80 years old in the earlier 2000s. Goes to show you that you can afford to have a house, kids, and a wife off of coal mining.
I feel like every family in pa has or has had a family member who worked in the mines...before they all pulled out but it just goes to show how big it was i live in pa so i wonder if my family Has any mining history
@@HeatedMindset My family was south of Pittsburgh near the border. As I was told, coal was such a valuable resource at the time that the military wouldn't accept miners enlisting during WW2.
My grandpa was a coal miner in PA too, Barnsborrow area I think! My gramma still lives in the house they bought and raised all their kids in! He ended up dying in the 2000’s from cancer. Both my parents grew up in Northern Cambria and my whole dads side is still there!
Omeshni Of course he does: He’s not looking for a spouse in a coal mine, he’s looking for a paycheck. Besides, there are a shit ton of wedding rings being worn by allllll kinds of people under “hard conditions” (hell, many of them should get Combat Pay) and for some it’s a Life Sentence Without Parole.
my husband wears his underground too 😭 it melts my heart! He wears a rubber one so it’ll break if it gets in a bind, cause he’s seen men get there fingers ripped off or skinned from wearing the real ones
Carley B. I don’t know if it’s different other places.. but that’s how it works here. They work really hard to provide for their families so we make their lives at home as easy as possible ♥️ life is slow & backwards here, but in a good way
Honestly I appreciate people who can do this work so much, especially working a lot of very labor intensive jobs as a youth. I couldn’t imagine doing that for my whole life…
Ironic 60yr old homeless, hardcore drug addict, career criminals living on skidrow fresh out the bighouz are in 50x's better shape then this young lad. This channel has me reconfiguring my entire outlook on the american dream. Im hooked on the content your bringing to the table here Mark. Keep up the true journalism, its a dying breed lately
This man speaks many words of truth. Being a Coal Miner from Wyoming, we are currently shutting down as well. It sucks, bad. He reminds me of one of my coworkers to a T. 👍🏻 This interview hits close to home for me especially.
American CoalMiner God Bless miners everywhere....Thatcher destroyed the coal industry here in Scotland...decimated communities....respect to all miners..👏🏴
@@americancoalminer6828 Wrong attitude my fellow miner. For each law there are lives lost behind it. MSHA and State inspectors are just doing their jobs. Hell Before the Sago the fines where reasonable. The EPA are bastards and most don't know what they are talking about. They usually bother quarries and surface mines.
again, i applaud you for branching out and really looking at all people and not just the junkies on skid row... You are a saint man and weather or not you know it, are changing this world for the better by shining a light on the things that most people want to keep hidden...
excuse me, but why the fuck do you even watch these videos if you are going to dismiss these people as 'junkies'? God don't like ugly and he sure can't stand a judgmental ugly person either.
john king wow after watching all these people’s stories and you really refer to them as “junkies”? I mean I aint no saint as well but damn.. the whole point (one of them) of those videos is too see humans instead of some junkies
More people work for Arbys restaurant that mine coal. Mining is a haven of hardworking people with learning disabilities and convicted felons. I worked for many a child molester or drunk who killed a family years ago.
@@avontesm.7125 man thats bogus you know macdonalds full of criminals and dumb ppl and many other corporations and jobs I respect good coal miners and ppl that have turned there ways just because you dont work in a rich corporation as a manager etc dont make you dumb or less imporant.
paisleyyama have you ever seen or be around someone dying from Black Lung? It’s not a good short life you actually drown on the fluid in your Lungs, and it’s a terrible way to go!
He's a coal miner. That means he has what is called a "black lung card" which is basically Medicaid for coal miners. He's probably in better health than many of us.
He is the epitome of a “good ol’ boy”. He’s hardworking, intelligent, a family man, & just trying to make an honest living to support his family. I love seeing different people from all walks of life on this channel. I wish this man the best and pray that he stays safe down in those mines. Kudos to him for doing what he loves. I’d love to see more in the future of those who live in the Appalachia’s. I’m a stone’s throw from the Appalachia’s, but it’s a different world there even though my city isn’t that far from it. Our church, different schools, & other organizations in our area take up donations throughout the year and new items at Christmas (especially toys and new clothing items for children) to take to the families that seem to be forgotten there. It really humbles you to the core to see a child’s eyes light up over new socks or mittens. They know their needs at such young ages. The toys are an afterthought. God bless those precious people in the Appalachia’s. I didn’t mean to get of topic. Thanks for sharing Mark! Also to anyone else reading, please get involved in your community. Check online, call around, ask your neighbors about different causes you could get involved in to help your community. You may not have much to give, but even giving your time is precious and helpful. Thank you & May everyone have a wonderful day❤️
True American in every sense of the word. Not just in his attitude towards honest work, but his ideologies surrounding family, brotherhood, and a cause.
If I had a company- any company, I would seek this man out and hire him. He seems hard working, versatile, and ready to learn anything. We need more Americans like this. Goodhearted, strong, and willing to get their hands dirty for that all mighty dollar.
The majority of America are full of men like Mackenzie. Well in the south that's where I have lived my whole life and I can speak for this part of America most people are good salt of the earth people. I hope Mark interviews more people like this man.
You don't see no city men 28 years old doing hard work like this! These are the people who have been forgotten. The coal miners. Bless you man. Thanks for what you do.
I mined for 9 years and moved on and now live in a city. You can't talk about it in an interview or bring it up at work. People say things like "I'm sorry that happened to you" or "Why would you do this?" A recruiter told me it made me seem less smart, put it last on the resume and if asked say you tried something new for a while, then silence. To this day if it come up in an interview I am not getting the job.
you act like there isn't back breaking work in construction who the fuck do you think builds your city's? paves your roads? takes out your trash? handles you sewage? alot of us city boys!
@Buck Dangle you say shit like that from the safety of the internet, which honestly I'm surprised you even know how to use. tough people don't try to sound tough on the internet, so hopefully you dont speak for all country folks, because if you do you just made them all seem like a bunch of bitches.
My mom's family is from coal mining country, beautiful Appalachia and they were miners as well. Some even before the Unions were brought to inspect working conditions and regulate safety issues. Thank you for telling his story. ♥️
omg I have never meet another black person who is from there.. my Aunt immigrated there from up North 25 years ago.. "the holla" she calls it.. I drove there one year and spent the summer .. mostly because I was scared for her being the only black out there and she said she loved it and it was nothing to worry abt.. went to see her and it was true.. the mountain tops and the lakes and trails were spectacular... people were genuine.. not phoney like here..
this reminds me of plant work here in louisiana. it’s literally a way of life for people and sometimes it’s really all they know. beyond the political bullshit- these are people’s livelihoods. He seems like a genuine, kind hearted guy just trying to provide for his family. ❤️ wishing him the best
Society turns its nose up at working class men like this in favor of privileged college students with no idea what physical labor means. Thank you for highlighting this guy.
@defmc1 Your preaching to a clown that wouldn't know a days work if it bit him in his soft ass. Very few that visit this channel actually know how it feels to bust your ass for 12 hours a day.
He seems like a sweet, hardworking man! Mark I love how your that your interviewing all different types of people. I know that a lot of the people you’ve interviewed in the past that are struggling, say they watch your channel. A lot always say that they don’t have role models or good people to look up to. Maybe they’ll watch videos like this and it will help them get off the streets or just start to have a different outlook on life. Never know! Love all your interviews! ❤️❤️❤️
daniel musfeldt I agree with you. And you are NOT the "problem with society"--society quit being responsible for themselves a couple of generations ago.
One of the most dangerous jobs in America. His clothes are dirty. He is dirty. That means a He is working .... Working ....working .... Salute, Sir. 🇺🇸 And much respect. ⚒️🇺🇲
Jordi CP Excuse you? Have you ever crossed a bridge or a tunnel? Been in a really tall building or ridden mass transit? How do you think all those things came to be? Hard work by hard men.
Same my husband comes home every night looking just like this. We are blue collar america and I'm so proud to be married to a hard working man.. not many women can stay because the hours are long and it's 7 days a week for my husband were lucky when he has a day off.. but he is an amazing husband and a wonderful daddy to our children. Wouldn't have it any other way!
I hate how people in major positions of wealth and power encourage we the masses to sacrifice our health and purpose just to get by. Cant believe that our society revolves around money, sex, fame, blood diamonds, liquor, dope, pills & designer bs made via slave labor. Time for all realists to unite and evolve alongside one another before it's too late. My family members are all drinking and doing drugs unfortunately instead of leading by example and acquiring a solution based point to their existence! I hope your experience or upbringing wasn't similar but remain strong and stay aware regardless! RESPECT 💯🌎🙏
I'm from West Virginia. I've seen how bad it really is down there. These poor people deserve so much more than the shit that state hands to them. This interview ripped my heart out of my chest. Tears in my eyes.
My family moved up to the Detroit area from eastern KY in the 50’s. I think of moving back. Only thing left here for working people are dishonest democrats. They gave all the jobs to China years ago.
This is seriously one of my favorite interviews dude . . . like foreal ! He is a real "MANS MAN" soo to say. Dude went from being with the Police to Coal Mining. He is a real true hard working man . I salute him. I wish him a long and happy life, because he truly deserves it for how hard he's worked. GOD BLESS HIS SOUL 🙏
I just Cannot get enough of these videos. The image of this coal miner is Striking! It is authentic, storytelling and creates a REAL picture about life. I LOVE it!!!
Like a coal miner, an oil rig driller, a firefighter, police officer, anything that puts your life at risk EVERYDAY and yet, can call the men and women you work with family. Bless this gentleman and anyone else who does these dangerous jobs to keep us moving. Thank you.
I went to Poland and toured the the salt mines in Krakow. I remember the miners being as big or bigger than this guy. I took a picture with them and the top of my head was level with their stomachs. God bless the men to work in our mines, and this guy is and absolutely wonderful person.
Well he is my favorite, FAVORITE interview ever!! Please interview more gentlemen like him. Shows to us the world still has honest, hardworking, American loving people!! Yes!
Here's a man who loves his country, family, home and his job. I'm happy to finally see someone on here who has pride and happy in his life. Thanks for the positive vibes!!!
@@RobboElRobbo That's all that's left in this state in terms of an industry that can pay a decent wage. If you get an education, you have to leave West Virginia to find a job within most fields. I say this whilst sitting at a coal mine
@@nbain66 operative word is "leave"! Y'all know coal is dying so gotdam slowly, yet y'all cling to every word by tRUMP that it's coming back! And y'all are quick to blame blacks, minorities, latinos, and democrats for y'all's problems...
@@jeep19 funnily enough, I'm a Democrat. I'm a security guard at the mine that I work at, when I say there are no other jobs, I genuinely mean it. If my family wasn't here, I would leave. Don't be so quick to judge and take an opportunity to force politics on to someone.
@@Karalolcowlaw Wow, way to cherry-pick people's lives and see them as nothing more than figures for your entertainment who you wouldn't hesitate to kick in the street.
Kara J then don’t watch if you don’t like it. Who the fuck are you bitch to judge other people’s lives. You’re an old ass bitch no one wants to see you here with your judgin ass
my grandad was a miner for 55 years, never smoked a cigarette in his life, but died of lung cancer when he was 72 due to the toxins from working in the mines.
@@taylor2775 personally, i think it is good that it is now over with, well in the UK it is atleast. but nothing is great right now. unless we live under a rock and breathe the finest of air, we are all ingesting poison.
simon green that’s true but rural west virginians have it particularly bad, even cases where children are getting brain cancer. rural appalachia has some of the highest cancer mortality rates in the country, up to 36 percent higher than what is seen elsewhere. this issue is largely ignored here because so many politicians take donations from coal corporations.
@@taylor2775 it's terrible isn't it. whilst they're voting for trump to be in power, they're going to get what they want as he backs the coal industry, so they are only causing this issue for themselves as clearly change is a big thing they do not want.
Hi Mark! Really enjoyed interview w/Makenzie! My Uncle John was a Coal Miner in Western PA. My Uncle John was the smartest man I ever met, 8th grade education. I have tremendous RESPECT 4 Coal Miners! Thank U 4 the great video!✌
I have lived in southwest va my whole life my dad grandad and great grand were miners in macamas w va this guy here may be only 28 but he's a real man ,he labors his life in some of the most dangerous places there is ,hard work and loves his family dedicated,very few men like him in this country ,god bless you for what you do you are a vital asset to this country ! And I will pray for you and you brothers down in the mine that you will always return home safe to your family !!
The diversity of this channel is great. I was born and raised in “southern “ West Virginia. This man is definitely a good example of a blue collar Mountaineer. He’s not wrong about the closures either. There is very few mines still operating in Appalachia. I’m truly thankful and proud to have found my career path as a steelworker that allows me to make a decent living and not have to relocate from my home town.
I took the same path, I fear the day they shut the mill down, most of the other steel mills in my region have shut down and many of my friends and family lost their jobs, luckily for me I didn’t get on when I was young at the local mill and had to travel an hour to the next city to find a job. The prospects for the future look a lot better here, but if I have learned anything. You never know when your mill is on the chopping block next.
My great grandfather and my uncle's worked for Tenn consolidated coal company. My great grandfather Clyde goat cash worked in the mines from 1929-1980 he was on the cover of coal people magazine in 1981.
Ahh, that accent. That's the accent I grew up with. That thick and prominent Appalachian accent, very distinct from other southern accents for sure. I love how we say "shower" like "Shire" lol. Good video. I hope his sons can get the hell out of Appalachia like I was able to.
What a bizarre ad hominem attack. You purport to know my opinions? What are those? I’m also sick and tired of the term “conspiracy theories” being used as some kind of slur by the radical left. Being critical of the official narrative mass media spins is the mark of a sane and rational individual. The left is chock full of their own conspiracies but somehow justify them when it suits their agenda. According to the xenophobic left Russia is this evil, ubiquitous entity lying in wait to destroy them. So save the childish slurs. Yes, there are liberal shit holes in America and I’d rather live in Appalachia. I’m a female and a minority and I’d rather be here than in some liberal city where people act like entitled, emotionally unhinged cry babies.
@igeto12 but the right wing still represents America better than the left ever could thats why yall keep creating bullshit scenarios to push towards socialism but can't even live with other people disagreeing with your beliefs and start crying and bitching and the people you're out to support dont even care about you and your representation they're only there for a paycheck
You doubt that I’m female and a minority? Why exactly? Because only white males can have right leaning opinions? Because I have a uterus and brown skin I’m relegated to a left wing box? And you call the right racist? I’m a woman and I was born in Morocco. My people are labeled Arabs but are a mixture of Sub Saharan African, European, Levantine. We aren’t “white.” I’m sorry if it’s hard for you to contemplate why an immigrant woman of color wouldn’t automatically side with a bunch of emotionally volatile and entitled brats. This is your prejudice creeping through. You seem to label anyone who leans right as having a checklist of beliefs that just seem so absurd to you. I’ll break down two of your dumb accusations. I care deeply for the environment, am vegan, grow much of my own food, and live simply. However, I find it dishonest and bizarre how the left badgers and attempts to silence any scientist who has a dissenting opinion on the level to which humans affect the climate. Not all share the same views. I am not a scientist so I declare myself an agnostic on the issue as should most people who don’t have a cursory grasp on it. As for wearing masks, at the beginning of the pandemic we were being told the opposite, to NOT wear masks especially not cloth or thin paper masks because they are ineffective. Odd how quickly the information shifts. I don’t know about tyranny but I certainly do think it is not the State’s place to enforce mask wearing when Sweden did not enforce it or have a lockdown and they’ve had far fewer deaths than areas of the UK that did. We are adults who should be able to make our own decisions about the risks we take when it comes to wearing masks or social distancing.
As someone from the north east of England. I saw first hand my grandad’s pride in being a coal miner and the effect it had on the community of the mines shutting down. Even now in 2021 I feel that it sucks that I can’t continue in his footsteps.
what a good, grainy real-life subject. Congratulations on producing a wholesome, tell-it-how-it-is series of interviews. Although not a US citizen (I'm UK) many years ago I read with interest a book called 'Workings' by Studs Terkel (?) which took an honest and and realistic cross-section of people at their work environment. You produce top class footage which reminds me of that sterling work.
God bless the miners! My Pop was born in Pike County, Kentucky. He fortunately left the area as a child and became a diesel mechanic. I'm so glad he didn't become a coal miner. His brother, Tony, died in a mine cave in while still a young man. I have a special place in my heart for these miners and their families.
Generations of my family crawled through those dark holes to make corporate America richer. They didn’t live to be old men. 😞 I have three sons. They were born into WV poverty. Never once did I endorse this life. My middle son is receiving his doctorate in psychiatry in the next couple of weeks. There’s much honor in the men who dig coal. Its criminal how they’ve been taking advantage of . God bless
Though this is a far cry from what's usually put out on this channel, I loved it. I'm so excited to see what/who/where your travels bring you. When I see this man I think of America. Such history.
My dad was a coal miner, both my grandfathers were coal miners, my 4 brothers are coal miners, my uncle was a coal miner, my 3 nephews are coal miners...all from Logan County West Virginia. It's very hard work.
Slowly poisoning oneself to make someone else wealthy when you get peanuts. Why would anyone want a crap job like this for their kids. Hopefully his kids will have more options when its their turn to earn a living. This guy is young man I hope he doesn't have to work so hard all his life
Bro you can't breathe with the damn mask on and certain tasks make you dizzy with a mask. They are literally good for just average walking breathing pace otherwise your all wet and not from water. You taste the Sweat.
Mark, thank you for doing this interview. I've worked in the coal mining industry for nearly 30 years and have met many great people like McKenzie. Coal miners are typical very proud of the work they do and lookout for one another. It can be a very dangerous job, but when the miners practice safe work habits they greatly reduce the risk of injury or worse. Also, dust levels are significantly reduced through modern dust control methods. The equipment used is fitted with dust control features and the air flow through the mine is used to care the dust away from the miners. Miner wear dust monitors to determine their exposure levels. If too high, their dust control plan must be improved. McKenzie is right when he says many of the things we use on a daily basis rely on coal. Most likely, the coal McKenzie is mining is metallurgical coal, or met coal, used to produce steel. Without this met coal we cannot create the steel used to produce many of the items you use every single day. For those who think coal mining is not necessary, I challenge you to abstain from using anything made from steel and do not use electricity for 25% of the time. 25% represents the amount of electricity produced from coal in the US.
My Grandfather and my Dad were coal Miners here in Germany and my Dad says if they would open up a coal Mine today he would straight go back. He loved the companionship and the work even it being so hard. And im proud to be his daughter. Glück auf ⚒🕯
Tough work. Had a 95 y/o pt that worked in the coal mine in his early years along side his dad. He worked for 4 years his dad retired, pulling in way over 16 tons. He spoke about the company store" the company money...very smart man. Also, he said that he would find fish and crab inside the mine along the wall. I'll always ask him you want me to warm your food up ? He'll reply " you forgot i worked in the coal mine"
@@j_bailey11 he said that they were actually cool and any food, if your lunch pal didn't stay warm you had to eat it cold. No washing your hands before eating and if you had a need to relieve yourself you did it in the mine.
I was hired to do Coal work and I couldn't get passed the first 20 foot of the tunnel without thinking of being crushed from a collapse. You have to be a special kinda person to work deep in those tunnels.
I absolutely love the variety of people who are interviewed. It seems like in many parts of Appalachia, people can’t find work, turn to drugs, etc, and here you have the opposite side to that. It’s very interesting to get a peak into their worlds. Thank you Mark.
I used to work in War, WV, born and raised very close to there. My dad and my bother were coalminers. When he says there are not many options there for work, he is 100% honest! Just like many others, they do what they have to do to be able to live in the beautiful state they grew up in. These are honest, hardworking people who deserve nothing but the utmost respect.
This is the kind of person who finds a wallet and returns it with all the cash still in it.
Hell yes because they know what it takes to earn a dollar.
Lots that would
He would. I know him and his brother went to school with both of them.
@@nathanmitchell4196 tell him he is a hero hard working man rare
thats a dumb move though ngl
My father was a coal miner here in PA in his younger years. “It’s dark as a dungeon and damp as the dew. Where dangers are doubled and pleasures are few. Where the rain never falls and the sun never shines. It’s dark as a dungeon way down in the mines”. So much respect for this man.
grandfather was a coal miner in PA, salute to your dad hardest working fuckers ive ever met. my grandpa gave me my first beer at 14 and told my dad "he dont look like a pussy let the kid have a beer" miners are the most down to earth people ever
This pun would make a good riddle...
I only recognize that song from fallout 76
todd segel gramps wasnt very smart though
sheldon sings this on an episode of tbbt
Please do more on men of industry like miners oil rig workers and other dangerous jobs dominated by men that are hidden from the internet and the world
chester hill yes please, this is a very good idea
Can't help but notice these are not jobs women do. Are they being denied? (I'm kidding.) So grateful for the people who do this incredibly hard work.
Also, I would love to see like...farmers, ranchers...like the kind who have been ranchers for generations.
Can you do union Carpenters ( concrete cowboys) and iron workers please. Thank you
I agree with that. 👍🏻
More interviews like this would be awesome. The backbone of America needs to be heard more often.
Not when it's an outdated and short-minded voice that's speaking.. Coal needs to go. It's inefficient and highly dangerous to the environment.
@@callmemc6 😂 NO
@@callmemc6 he said, atop his throne.
@@callmemc6 🤣🤣 you're pathetic
@@callmemc6 70% of steel uses coal. Should we get rid of steel too?😂
He speaks like he's older than 28. Very mature and well spoken.
Most of us are in WV. I have a HS diploma but started working at 14. Bought my first car that year and spent that year fixing it up. I was considered a man at 10 years old and treated as such. Loved my life. Mom was a housewife and dad was a machinist. Dad took me hunting and fishing. Mom took me to Church every Sunday. My wifes a housewife and Im a security guard. I was a machinist for 20 years but Obama shut our shop down in 2013. My dad was still working at his in his 70s. His shut down for the same reason. Hate whats going on in this country today. I pity those who dont live in Appalachia. Life here is good and so are the people.
@@jameslong4929 obama personally came down to your shop and shut it down? Damn, tough break
@@jameslong4929 ok boomer lol
@@luisgarciamejia4366 beta
I thought he was 58
My dad was a hard coal miner. He died in 1948 at the age of 42, leaving our family destitute. Mom went to work and raised sis and me , all by herself. Mom is gone, sis is gone . I'm 77 and soon cancer will take me.
Oh no!! God bless you pray and embrace your soon to be afterlife with Jesus . See you on the other side
I’m 34 can you give me any life advice? Do you have any regrets?
Any words of wisdom
Ok boomer
@YES ok boomer
That man earns every dollar, Eastern Kentucky and West Virginia are tough places to make a living, Respect👍
The town I live in is an old mining town with small subsections where different mines used to be a long time ago. All the mines were numbered and the place I live is known as Reitz #3.
john delasko wonderful history, Reitz is my old football team, glad a memory was shared❤️
Cody Bennett it’s beautiful country 👍
One tough job I had working in a coke plant (metallurgical coke) nothing compares to it, the job from HELL it never shuts down, STEEL MILL WORKER
DANIEL mota 👍❤️
His face is just covered. I can’t imagine how hard his job is. But he’s passionate about his job and he works for every dollar. God bless him and his brothers down there.
its makeup for the interview
@@Zybezane thats what alot of people dont realize
@@ThatsWhtasUp because it’s not true
@@Donald_Dump420 You are seriously deluded if you think he has come straight from the mines, face still covered in shit, to do this interview. Your thinking is shared by 90% of the worlds population and it is what is everything wrong with the world this present day. Just stop and think ffs
@@TetaBall bro chill
"SOFT WHITE UNDER BELLY" true definition on RANGE in journalistic interviewing.
He one upped Rogan
Indeed, there's a whole range of child abuse and drugs passing by here...don't see a lot of happy and free people though...
shiva1008 there’s no such thing as happy. there’s moments of happiness but it’s an impossible state to stay at
@Valerie O'Brien lol
@@Gmenpg I don't think its impossible, I was a happy child despite the environment I lived in
I really appreciate the diversity this channel brings, people from all walks of life. Seems like a tough job.
@@sparky9453 huh?
Seems like a dream job... it’d be a lot of fun finding these people & being able to learn about them personally. We’re blessed this man simply records his encounters and gives them to us
Alex Roy what the fuck are you on about?
Yeah this channel is awesome :D it is a good example of where diversity is a good thing.
Seems??? Are you talking coal mining?
It literally takes one minute to figure out that this guy is lovely hearted.
Sam?
@@cristy02 the good ole boy lolololo if his name is sam then yes sam the coal miner. Have u watched his other stuff hunny bunch
lol sorry I was talking about u. ur picture looks just like a girl I knew in hs!
@@cristy02 I'm sorry bud lololo nope I'm no sam sorry
is that you sam?
As a WV native and worked in mines before, it’s no joke. This is a backbreaking and thankless job that most people can’t even begin to relate to.
As a coal miner of 20 plus year yes it is
If this is what his face looks like, I can only imagine what his lungs look like. Prayers to him and his crew🙏🏽
@Jack park Does his mouth look like he had a respirator on?
Nicolas Höll that’s his choice.. if he’s “smart” he’d have a mask on 👍🏼
Nicolas Höll yes look at his lips clean dumbass, it’s called from sweat and touching your face when it’s off
@@bendial1539 Have you ever worked in a mechanic shop dumbass? Sweat leaves very distinct sweat marks when it goes through the ash. And everyone with IQ over 5 wont touch his mouth with black hands.
EXACTLY! Evil people in power force us to rely upon technology that we've already evolved past. They don't care about the destruction or devestating effect it has on human beings alongside our planet. Balance, sustainability & solution are everything right now. Much respect for choosing to be logical and aware while simultaneously hoping the best for your fellow human beings. Rare 💯🌎🙏
This guy seems like he has a good personality. Someone I wouldn’t mind sharing a beer with.
Me too. "Honest living"
We are all like this here, coal miner or not. Of course you have your dicks like any place but we are pretty much all like this gentlemen here.
So yes, come have a beer with us anytime.
i was thinking the same exact thing
John Jingleheimer John Jingleheimer shmitd? That you?
His a big boy for 28 years old I would never have guessed he was such a young man seems a decent chap
Whats chap mean
H F lad/boy
H F it’s another term in English for a man
Salt of the earth, God fearing, family man thats a blue collar worker. America baby!
Reminds me of a good friend of mine that moved put of town.
Im 21 years old, I was a Masonry laborer/apprentice for 2 years, and my lungs hurt every day. Tough work, makes a boy into a man, but dying ain't much of a living. I couldnt imagine working in mine for life. That man, and men like him are what keep us afloat. Bless him
Most miners don't get to retire they die of lung diseases. The coal industry will soon be finished, I hope that new industries will come to the area so people can make a living.
My Grandfather started working in his Father's masonry business when he was 11 years old and worked it until he retired at the age of 67. He had sandpaper for hands and a grip that was just insane! And since we're in the south, he had one hell of a tan as well. When I was 14 years old I helped him and my Father put a roof on a small workshop he was building. I remember him taking his shirt off during the day and noticing that he had one hell of a six pack! lol
In the early 00's, I was looking for a new job and he called me up and offered me a job. It was strange because he practically told me NOT to take it but if I was desperate, he'd hire me. Needless to say, I understood what he was getting at and decided to take another job instead. He later told me that he never wanted his family to do the work he had done his whole life. He's 79 years old today and you can see the toll that work has left on him.
Thomas Wole the lost boy
Thomas Wolfe*
You are the backbone of this country
We should start a fund raiser for this guy to have a short vacation. He deserves it
Yes I agree very much hes a very good man working hard to support his family
they dont get vacations there? wow, we get 4 weeks each year.
I would pitch in. I could be wrong so please correct me if I am.. but I don’t think they make money anyways. Hard working people like this deserve good things.
In my country (Australia) we Respect people like this alot more than some prick with a degree, BUT they/we (Im a Truck driver) also earn good money thanks to our Labour Party / Unions (National minimum wage /compulsory superannuation and strong workplace laws , You work hard you deserved to be compensated ..this is what is lacking( not preaching) in workplaces in the US where unions are not prevelant or have no powers....
@@Skippy-id9yt completely agree man
My Grandfather was a coal-miner in Western PA. Had black lung disease but was in fairly decent health through his 80's.
mattk04 wow he was one of the lucky ones but glad he lived as many years as he did
Yep so was my grandpa. He had 5 kids including my dad and they all grew up in scranton PA. My grandpa had a little bit of black lung but it didn't kill him. He died at 75/80 years old in the earlier 2000s. Goes to show you that you can afford to have a house, kids, and a wife off of coal mining.
I feel like every family in pa has or has had a family member who worked in the mines...before they all pulled out but it just goes to show how big it was i live in pa so i wonder if my family Has any mining history
@@HeatedMindset My family was south of Pittsburgh near the border.
As I was told, coal was such a valuable resource at the time that the military wouldn't accept miners enlisting during WW2.
My grandpa was a coal miner in PA too, Barnsborrow area I think! My gramma still lives in the house they bought and raised all their kids in! He ended up dying in the 2000’s from cancer. Both my parents grew up in Northern Cambria and my whole dads side is still there!
This man is wearing his wedding ring 😭❤️ although he works under such hard conditions, he still wears his wedding ring 🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺❤️
Omeshni Of course he does: He’s not looking for a spouse in a coal mine, he’s looking for a paycheck.
Besides, there are a shit ton of wedding rings being worn by allllll kinds of people under “hard conditions” (hell, many of them should get Combat Pay) and for some it’s a Life Sentence Without Parole.
my husband wears his underground too 😭 it melts my heart! He wears a rubber one so it’ll break if it gets in a bind, cause he’s seen men get there fingers ripped off or skinned from wearing the real ones
@@deen8842 Is your husband single?
JUMALA KOHTUOTSUS 😂 nah I think I’ll keep him
Carley B. I don’t know if it’s different other places.. but that’s how it works here. They work really hard to provide for their families so we make their lives at home as easy as possible ♥️ life is slow & backwards here, but in a good way
I highly respect a person who is an honest, hard worker.
Legal slavery. Unfortunately
He is worth much more than any politician. He works at least for his pay.
Greetings from Italy.
rip mussolini innit
@@Internet-Driller Codswallop innit
Hai ragione è meglio dei politici qui negli usa e in italia
This is the type of person we need in Washington... Not afraid of hard work and honest to a fault.
Honestly I appreciate people who can do this work so much, especially working a lot of very labor intensive jobs as a youth. I couldn’t imagine doing that for my whole life…
Not enough men like him today, loyal, hardworking, honest.
The CEO has spoken.
Because its punished now. Diversity is strength now.
@D.J. Lachmann noone mentioned race??! This may be a Freudian slip on your part!
@D.J. Lachmann strength
@D.J. Lachmann nope, you're the racist one, that's on you!
Very nice, likable young man. Wish him the best
“I’m 28” Jesus Christ
He looks quite young actually.
I figured much younger tbh.
with the body of a 48
Ironic 60yr old homeless, hardcore drug addict, career criminals living on skidrow fresh out the bighouz are in 50x's better shape then this young lad. This channel has me reconfiguring my entire outlook on the american dream. Im hooked on the content your bringing to the table here Mark. Keep up the true journalism, its a dying breed lately
Hard working men , love life anyway .
This man speaks many words of truth. Being a Coal Miner from Wyoming, we are currently shutting down as well. It sucks, bad. He reminds me of one of my coworkers to a T. 👍🏻
This interview hits close to home for me especially.
@@cb.1212
I, we, love our job. But the worthless Government and EPA HATE, our job.
American CoalMiner God Bless miners everywhere....Thatcher destroyed the coal industry here in Scotland...decimated communities....respect to all miners..👏🏴
@@americancoalminer6828 Wrong attitude my fellow miner. For each law there are lives lost behind it. MSHA and State inspectors are just doing their jobs. Hell Before the Sago the fines where reasonable. The EPA are bastards and most don't know what they are talking about. They usually bother quarries and surface mines.
@@avontesm.7125
I have no issue with MSHA or State Inspectors. And the mine I work at is a Surface Mine.
again, i applaud you for branching out and really looking at all people and not just the junkies on skid row... You are a saint man and weather or not you know it, are changing this world for the better by shining a light on the things that most people want to keep hidden...
"branching out and really looking at all people and not just the junkies on skid row" what a strange thing to say
@@idontwantone132 not that strange.. maybe put a little the wrong way.. but not strange.. completely related to the topic of video.
Please don't be offended but...it's 'whether', not 'weather' 😉
excuse me, but why the fuck do you even watch these videos if you are going to dismiss these people as 'junkies'? God don't like ugly and he sure can't stand a judgmental ugly person either.
john king wow after watching all these people’s stories and you really refer to them as “junkies”? I mean I aint no saint as well but damn.. the whole point (one of them) of those videos is too see humans instead of some junkies
That's the backbone of America right there.
More people work for Arbys restaurant that mine coal. Mining is a haven of hardworking people with learning disabilities and convicted felons. I worked for many a child molester or drunk who killed a family years ago.
@@avontesm.7125 man thats bogus you know macdonalds full of criminals and dumb ppl and many other corporations and jobs
I respect good coal miners and ppl that have turned there ways
just because you dont work in a rich corporation as a manager etc dont make you dumb or less imporant.
services are
Actually the back bone of America were the hundreds of thousands of slaves that actually did build this country and economy ☺️
Fab xo, what he said
I will always - ALWAYS - have a place in my heart for tradesmen and tradeswomen like this.
The back of the world is built on people like this.
My sentiments, exactly, Darrell!
Take care of the oll lungs my man
Look at his face... His lungs are FINISHED 😬😬..
Bro it’s coal lungs and have a little respect u prick
paisleyyama have you ever seen or be around someone dying from Black Lung? It’s not a good short life you actually drown on the fluid in your Lungs, and it’s a terrible way to go!
He's a coal miner. That means he has what is called a "black lung card" which is basically Medicaid for coal miners. He's probably in better health than many of us.
@@JohnDoe-vf2yo you sure? 😂 There's no way for a doctor to remove coal from your lungs.
Such a great Guy..His eyes are so beautiful and so is his personality
He was very pleasant to listen to and yes, he has some beautiful eyes.
He is the epitome of a “good ol’ boy”. He’s hardworking, intelligent, a family man, & just trying to make an honest living to support his family. I love seeing different people from all walks of life on this channel. I wish this man the best and pray that he stays safe down in those mines. Kudos to him for doing what he loves. I’d love to see more in the future of those who live in the Appalachia’s. I’m a stone’s throw from the Appalachia’s, but it’s a different world there even though my city isn’t that far from it. Our church, different schools, & other organizations in our area take up donations throughout the year and new items at Christmas (especially toys and new clothing items for children) to take to the families that seem to be forgotten there. It really humbles you to the core to see a child’s eyes light up over new socks or mittens. They know their needs at such young ages. The toys are an afterthought. God bless those precious people in the Appalachia’s. I didn’t mean to get of topic. Thanks for sharing Mark! Also to anyone else reading, please get involved in your community. Check online, call around, ask your neighbors about different causes you could get involved in to help your community. You may not have much to give, but even giving your time is precious and helpful. Thank you & May everyone have a wonderful day❤️
True American in every sense of the word. Not just in his attitude towards honest work, but his ideologies surrounding family, brotherhood, and a cause.
If I had a company- any company, I would seek this man out and hire him. He seems hard working, versatile, and ready to learn anything. We need more Americans like this. Goodhearted, strong, and willing to get their hands dirty for that all mighty dollar.
You have to feed him.
Talon Sharp ?
Talon Sharp what does this mean bro
also dumb as a rock
The majority of America are full of men like Mackenzie. Well in the south that's where I have lived my whole life and I can speak for this part of America most people are good salt of the earth people. I hope Mark interviews more people like this man.
You don't see no city men 28 years old doing hard work like this! These are the people who have been forgotten. The coal miners. Bless you man. Thanks for what you do.
I mined for 9 years and moved on and now live in a city. You can't talk about it in an interview or bring it up at work. People say things like "I'm sorry that happened to you" or "Why would you do this?" A recruiter told me it made me seem less smart, put it last on the resume and if asked say you tried something new for a while, then silence. To this day if it come up in an interview I am not getting the job.
@@avontesm.7125 Bullshit
@@mrsaturdaytm7558 My back hurts right now. I wish it was bullshit
you act like there isn't back breaking work in construction who the fuck do you think builds your city's? paves your roads? takes out your trash? handles you sewage? alot of us city boys!
@Buck Dangle you say shit like that from the safety of the internet, which honestly I'm surprised you even know how to use. tough people don't try to sound tough on the internet, so hopefully you dont speak for all country folks, because if you do you just made them all seem like a bunch of bitches.
My mom's family is from coal mining country, beautiful Appalachia and they were miners as well. Some even before the Unions were brought to inspect working conditions and regulate safety issues. Thank you for telling his story. ♥️
omg I have never meet another black person who is from there.. my Aunt immigrated there from up North 25 years ago.. "the holla" she calls it.. I drove there one year and spent the summer .. mostly because I was scared for her being the only black out there and she said she loved it and it was nothing to worry abt.. went to see her and it was true.. the mountain tops and the lakes and trails were spectacular... people were genuine.. not phoney like here..
As a underground coal miner for 45 years this man represents 95% of all miners. Hard working and just wants to take care of their family.
this reminds me of plant work here in louisiana. it’s literally a way of life for people and sometimes it’s really all they know. beyond the political bullshit- these are people’s livelihoods. He seems like a genuine, kind hearted guy just trying to provide for his family. ❤️ wishing him the best
Agree with you 100%
Yeaa:)
Rachel Dunn where in Louisiana?
Teri Price BR!
Amen
Society turns its nose up at working class men like this in favor of privileged college students with no idea what physical labor means. Thank you for highlighting this guy.
College students come from all walks of life and no one is turning their nose up at guys like McKenzie.
@@dcpunk4 yes they are what world do you live in lmao
@@dcpunk4 Just what a rich liberal would say. Without blue collar there is no white collar. I promise.
@defmc1
Your preaching to a clown that wouldn't know a days work if it bit him in his soft ass.
Very few that visit this channel actually know how it feels to bust your ass for 12 hours a day.
All I hear is people talking shit about rich liberals when all I see are rich republicans here in Illinois... all of em
Respect brother, from us underground coal miners in QLD Australia.
Stay alive mate, they dont give a fuck about us.
We need more interviews like this, people who work dangerous jobs that are not as well known to the public
He seems like a sweet, hardworking man! Mark I love how your that your interviewing all different types of people. I know that a lot of the people you’ve interviewed in the past that are struggling, say they watch your channel. A lot always say that they don’t have role models or good people to look up to. Maybe they’ll watch videos like this and it will help them get off the streets or just start to have a different outlook on life. Never know! Love all your interviews! ❤️❤️❤️
U made a great point abt the others seeing everyday lifestyles/job occupations. They could aspire to become anyone or anything.
He is my husband. Hes truly a jack of all trades.
@@victoriamackenzieramsey9739 He looks like a top Husband and Co worker! Wich you guys the best.
Refreshing to see the working man being interviewed. I think the pimps and pros have run their course on this channel. Great job.
Pimps and pros are the only ones still working
daniel musfeldt I agree with you. And you are NOT the "problem with society"--society quit being responsible for themselves a couple of generations ago.
They still not sitting on their asses waiting for a hand out... doesn’t matter if you respect how they’re getting it or not! It’s not your body.🤷🏾♀️
@@jessicab331 lol
@@jessicab331 I promise you that plenty of pimps and pros are collecting welfare benefits. After all, their income is unreported.
One of the most dangerous jobs in America.
His clothes are dirty. He is dirty. That means a
He is working .... Working ....working ....
Salute, Sir. 🇺🇸 And much respect. ⚒️🇺🇲
Working hard but not smart...
Jordi CP Excuse you? Have you ever crossed a bridge or a tunnel? Been in a really tall building or ridden mass transit? How do you think all those things came to be? Hard work by hard men.
Grainne O’Malley periodt💅🏾
Don’t mean in the world America’s not the only country 😂.
@@danielhunter1445 what other country?
This guy is like my husband. He always says I'd crawl across broken glass to take care of my family.
That’s like my dad , he’d go without so we all have . Sounds like a good husband you have .
@John Smith Looks like we've discovered a society clash in these comments......
@John Smith All girls are the same :/
i wont i will run away xaxaaxxaax
Same my husband comes home every night looking just like this. We are blue collar america and I'm so proud to be married to a hard working man.. not many women can stay because the hours are long and it's 7 days a week for my husband were lucky when he has a day off.. but he is an amazing husband and a wonderful daddy to our children. Wouldn't have it any other way!
My grandpa was a miner in Ohio. Never met him. Hope this gentleman is doing ok.
I hate how people in major positions of wealth and power encourage we the masses to sacrifice our health and purpose just to get by. Cant believe that our society revolves around money, sex, fame, blood diamonds, liquor, dope, pills & designer bs made via slave labor. Time for all realists to unite and evolve alongside one another before it's too late. My family members are all drinking and doing drugs unfortunately instead of leading by example and acquiring a solution based point to their existence! I hope your experience or upbringing wasn't similar but remain strong and stay aware regardless! RESPECT 💯🌎🙏
he's dead, kid...
@@tourzrap how do you know that
Same here he mined down by Glouster. Him and his brother both died of black lung when i was just one year old ...
I'm from West Virginia. I've seen how bad it really is down there. These poor people deserve so much more than the shit that state hands to them. This interview ripped my heart out of my chest. Tears in my eyes.
What part ?
My family moved up to the Detroit area from eastern KY in the 50’s. I think of moving back. Only thing left here for working people are dishonest democrats. They gave all the jobs to China years ago.
@@Golfing422 Kentucky is hurtin’ bad these days.
@@Golfing422 "Dishonest!" The musthaphfruqk'n republicans fed y'all them lies about coal coming back... you racists fuuuks ate it up 😉
@@jeep19 and they all end up with health issues and the industry turns their back on them and expects the government to take care of them
A Family man and provider. A real King👑 . Stay safe and God bless.
AGREE, well-said.
@Trey Indica Amen.
This is seriously one of my favorite interviews dude . . . like foreal ! He is a real "MANS MAN" soo to say. Dude went from being with the Police to Coal Mining. He is a real true hard working man . I salute him. I wish him a long and happy life, because he truly deserves it for how hard he's worked.
GOD
BLESS
HIS
SOUL 🙏
I just Cannot get enough of these videos. The image of this coal miner is Striking! It is authentic, storytelling and creates a REAL picture about life.
I LOVE it!!!
I like his accent, it’s calming and welcoming
Same. It's a nice voice.
speak for yourself
KING NOLAN I did speak for myself lmao
JackTheHero as a Kentuckian, we all sound like this. I love our southern accents.
@@derpminecraft1 LOL'ED u told his ass omfg that was funny.
Like a coal miner, an oil rig driller, a firefighter, police officer, anything that puts your life at risk EVERYDAY and yet, can call the men and women you work with family. Bless this gentleman and anyone else who does these dangerous jobs to keep us moving. Thank you.
Police 😂
3 of those professions are scum
@@fghfghsrtsrthsrthsrt5968 I guarantee you've dialed 911 a few time in your life. Stfu
@@Jamesvarush don't you dare ever call the police to save your sorry ass!
@@HomeSkillit This is pure ideology.
I went to Poland and toured the the salt mines in Krakow. I remember the miners being as big or bigger than this guy. I took a picture with them and the top of my head was level with their stomachs. God bless the men to work in our mines, and this guy is and absolutely wonderful person.
Well he is my favorite, FAVORITE interview ever!! Please interview more gentlemen like him. Shows to us the world still has honest, hardworking, American loving people!! Yes!
Here's a man who loves his country, family, home and his job. I'm happy to finally see someone on here who has pride and happy in his life. Thanks for the positive vibes!!!
God bless the guy, Coal Miners are a backbone of West Virginia
And all of Kentucky
destruction of the environment is the backbone of west virginia? that's just plain depressing
@@RobboElRobbo That's all that's left in this state in terms of an industry that can pay a decent wage. If you get an education, you have to leave West Virginia to find a job within most fields. I say this whilst sitting at a coal mine
@@nbain66 operative word is "leave"! Y'all know coal is dying so gotdam slowly, yet y'all cling to every word by tRUMP that it's coming back! And y'all are quick to blame blacks, minorities, latinos, and democrats for y'all's problems...
@@jeep19 funnily enough, I'm a Democrat. I'm a security guard at the mine that I work at, when I say there are no other jobs, I genuinely mean it. If my family wasn't here, I would leave. Don't be so quick to judge and take an opportunity to force politics on to someone.
Do more interviews of good honest people like this
Agreed, I've reached my limit of the pimps/prositutes, druggies and excuses.This video was a nice change.
can't appreciate the good people without the bad so appreciate all walks of life something to keep in mind.
@@Karalolcowlaw u look kinda old to be on UA-cam judging people
@@Karalolcowlaw Wow, way to cherry-pick people's lives and see them as nothing more than figures for your entertainment who you wouldn't hesitate to kick in the street.
Kara J then don’t watch if you don’t like it. Who the fuck are you bitch to judge other people’s lives. You’re an old ass bitch no one wants to see you here with your judgin ass
Please don’t ever stop making content. This is the most raw and eye opening channel. I love it . ❤️
My grandfather came from Italy to Belgian to work in the coal mines. He died from lung cancer... and will always be remember. Thank you grandpa ❤️
What a fantastic photo of this gentleman! And of course superior interview.
Great work Mark!
my grandad was a miner for 55 years, never smoked a cigarette in his life, but died of lung cancer when he was 72 due to the toxins from working in the mines.
and these toxins run off into water sources and give people who live by mines cancer. i dont get how anyone can defend this industry.
@@taylor2775 personally, i think it is good that it is now over with, well in the UK it is atleast. but nothing is great right now. unless we live under a rock and breathe the finest of air, we are all ingesting poison.
simon green that’s true but rural west virginians have it particularly bad, even cases where children are getting brain cancer. rural appalachia has some of the highest cancer mortality rates in the country, up to 36 percent higher than what is seen elsewhere. this issue is largely ignored here because so many politicians take donations from coal corporations.
@@taylor2775 it's terrible isn't it. whilst they're voting for trump to be in power, they're going to get what they want as he backs the coal industry, so they are only causing this issue for themselves as clearly change is a big thing they do not want.
The interviewer told him come right after you get off🤣🤣
😭😭😭😭
Sledge Patrick good one 😂
Lol I was thinking lunch break
Don't even clock out. Jus come straight to the interview 😄
He probably was working and had to make the interview quick so he back before his break over lol
Hi Mark! Really enjoyed interview w/Makenzie! My Uncle John was a Coal Miner in Western PA. My Uncle John was the smartest man I ever met, 8th grade education. I have tremendous RESPECT 4 Coal Miners! Thank U 4 the great video!✌
I have lived in southwest va my whole life my dad grandad and great grand were miners in macamas w va this guy here may be only 28 but he's a real man ,he labors his life in some of the most dangerous places there is ,hard work and loves his family dedicated,very few men like him in this country ,god bless you for what you do you are a vital asset to this country ! And I will pray for you and you brothers down in the mine that you will always return home safe to your family !!
Hard working fella. And he LOVES his job. A true character of a man.
This is seriously an amazing channel this guy does stuff no one else has done but is sooooo intriguing and interesting.
The diversity of this channel is great. I was born and raised in “southern “ West Virginia. This man is definitely a good example of a blue collar Mountaineer. He’s not wrong about the closures either. There is very few mines still operating in Appalachia. I’m truly thankful and proud to have found my career path as a steelworker that allows me to make a decent living and not have to relocate from my home town.
Dead on man.
I took the same path, I fear the day they shut the mill down, most of the other steel mills in my region have shut down and many of my friends and family lost their jobs, luckily for me I didn’t get on when I was young at the local mill and had to travel an hour to the next city to find a job. The prospects for the future look a lot better here, but if I have learned anything. You never know when your mill is on the chopping block next.
This is a honest family man, nothing more nothing less, love him.
My great grandfather and my uncle's worked for Tenn consolidated coal company. My great grandfather Clyde goat cash worked in the mines from 1929-1980 he was on the cover of coal people magazine in 1981.
At least he’s a real person. Great interview. You know how to pick em and interview them
Ahh, that accent. That's the accent I grew up with. That thick and prominent Appalachian accent, very distinct from other southern accents for sure. I love how we say "shower" like "Shire" lol. Good video. I hope his sons can get the hell out of Appalachia like I was able to.
Why? I love it here. It’s better to grow up in Appalachia than some liberal shit hole
What a bizarre ad hominem attack. You purport to know my opinions? What are those?
I’m also sick and tired of the term “conspiracy theories” being used as some kind of slur by the radical left. Being critical of the official narrative mass media spins is the mark of a sane and rational individual. The left is chock full of their own conspiracies but somehow justify them when it suits their agenda. According to the xenophobic left Russia is this evil, ubiquitous entity lying in wait to destroy them. So save the childish slurs.
Yes, there are liberal shit holes in America and I’d rather live in Appalachia. I’m a female and a minority and I’d rather be here than in some liberal city where people act like entitled, emotionally unhinged cry babies.
@igeto12 but the right wing still represents America better than the left ever could thats why yall keep creating bullshit scenarios to push towards socialism but can't even live with other people disagreeing with your beliefs and start crying and bitching and the people you're out to support dont even care about you and your representation they're only there for a paycheck
You doubt that I’m female and a minority? Why exactly? Because only white males can have right leaning opinions? Because I have a uterus and brown skin I’m relegated to a left wing box? And you call the right racist? I’m a woman and I was born in Morocco. My people are labeled Arabs but are a mixture of Sub Saharan African, European, Levantine. We aren’t “white.” I’m sorry if it’s hard for you to contemplate why an immigrant woman of color wouldn’t automatically side with a bunch of emotionally volatile and entitled brats. This is your prejudice creeping through.
You seem to label anyone who leans right as having a checklist of beliefs that just seem so absurd to you.
I’ll break down two of your dumb accusations. I care deeply for the environment, am vegan, grow much of my own food, and live simply. However, I find it dishonest and bizarre how the left badgers and attempts to silence any scientist who has a dissenting opinion on the level to which humans affect the climate. Not all share the same views. I am not a scientist so I declare myself an agnostic on the issue as should most people who don’t have a cursory grasp on it.
As for wearing masks, at the beginning of the pandemic we were being told the opposite, to NOT wear masks especially not cloth or thin paper masks because they are ineffective. Odd how quickly the information shifts. I don’t know about tyranny but I certainly do think it is not the State’s place to enforce mask wearing when Sweden did not enforce it or have a lockdown and they’ve had far fewer deaths than areas of the UK that did. We are adults who should be able to make our own decisions about the risks we take when it comes to wearing masks or social distancing.
@igeto12 just because you dont like his opinion doesnt make it "cringy" go back to reddit and cry orange man bad
As someone from the north east of England. I saw first hand my grandad’s pride in being a coal miner and the effect it had on the community of the mines shutting down. Even now in 2021 I feel that it sucks that I can’t continue in his footsteps.
what a good, grainy real-life subject. Congratulations on producing a wholesome, tell-it-how-it-is series of interviews. Although not a US citizen (I'm UK) many years ago I read with interest a book called 'Workings' by Studs Terkel (?) which took an honest and and realistic cross-section of people at their work environment. You produce top class footage which reminds me of that sterling work.
God bless the miners! My Pop was born in Pike County, Kentucky. He fortunately left the area as a child and became a diesel mechanic. I'm so glad he didn't become a coal miner. His brother, Tony, died in a mine cave in while still a young man. I have a special place in my heart for these miners and their families.
Honest, hard working man, with a heart of gold, taking care of his family. I respect you sir.
Generations of my family crawled through those dark holes to make corporate America richer. They didn’t live to be old men. 😞 I have three sons. They were born into WV poverty. Never once did I endorse this life. My middle son is receiving his doctorate in psychiatry in the next couple of weeks. There’s much honor in the men who dig coal. Its criminal how they’ve been taking advantage of . God bless
Though this is a far cry from what's usually put out on this channel, I loved it. I'm so excited to see what/who/where your travels bring you.
When I see this man I think of America. Such history.
What a sweet soul. His body language and eye contact is so comforting. You can tell. Wishing him health and happiness.
My dad was a coal miner, both my grandfathers were coal miners, my 4 brothers are coal miners, my uncle was a coal miner, my 3 nephews are coal miners...all from Logan County West Virginia. It's very hard work.
As someone from WV, this states full of good people, just like him, busting their asses working harder than most people just to barely get by.
Yes ma'am, that's the truth.
their country has failed them
Giv needs to bring something else to the ppl for work
@Lean imagine when you look back at history everything changes, if these fellas had some work when the coal mines closed they'd be ok
Slowly poisoning oneself to make someone else wealthy when you get peanuts. Why would anyone want a crap job like this for their kids. Hopefully his kids will have more options when its their turn to earn a living. This guy is young man I hope he doesn't have to work so hard all his life
These people need to wear proper masks while working. Their lungs are at risk.
they would prob pass out from the extreme heat and exhaustion
Erich's Insight he said in the interview the mines stay between 26-60 degrees all year
Bro you can't breathe with the damn mask on and certain tasks make you dizzy with a mask. They are literally good for just average walking breathing pace otherwise your all wet and not from water. You taste the Sweat.
They do, he probably just took it off for the interview if he had one
My family is Broke can you sub? If you say so lol
This was a nice change. I enjoyed hearing about the life of a coal miner!
I give this guy a lot of credit. Working hard, long hours to support his family. I appreciate all he does for the country. God bless
I’m amazed just how consistent your lighting is that you get every portrait to look so much like they were all shoot during the same session!
We need more of these blue collar, Mike Rowe style guy and gal interviews.
Mike Rowe is not blue collar it's an act.
@@NEH85 agreed. Rowe is a twat.
Agreed, except Rowe is fake.
@@marialiyubman ~ Mike Rowe does do the dirty jobs but it is just a popular tv series.
Such a great guy !! Hard working and genuine - god bless him and his family .
A humble man just trying to take care of his family.. That's what it's all about...
As someone who's with a miner, his family are miners, my pops and great grandpa were miners, thank you. And please post more. ❤️❤️
Mark, thank you for doing this interview. I've worked in the coal mining industry for nearly 30 years and have met many great people like McKenzie.
Coal miners are typical very proud of the work they do and lookout for one another. It can be a very dangerous job, but when the miners practice safe work habits they greatly reduce the risk of injury or worse.
Also, dust levels are significantly reduced through modern dust control methods. The equipment used is fitted with dust control features and the air flow through the mine is used to care the dust away from the miners. Miner wear dust monitors to determine their exposure levels. If too high, their dust control plan must be improved.
McKenzie is right when he says many of the things we use on a daily basis rely on coal. Most likely, the coal McKenzie is mining is metallurgical coal, or met coal, used to produce steel. Without this met coal we cannot create the steel used to produce many of the items you use every single day.
For those who think coal mining is not necessary, I challenge you to abstain from using anything made from steel and do not use electricity for 25% of the time. 25% represents the amount of electricity produced from coal in the US.
I agree w you and Mckenzie thank you both for the hard work you do every day to keep America great! We love and support Miners!
My Grandfather and my Dad were coal Miners here in Germany and my Dad says if they would open up a coal Mine today he would straight go back. He loved the companionship and the work even it being so hard. And im proud to be his daughter. Glück auf ⚒🕯
Tough work. Had a 95 y/o pt that worked in the coal mine in his early years along side his dad. He worked for 4 years his dad retired, pulling in way over 16 tons. He spoke about the company store" the company money...very smart man. Also, he said that he would find fish and crab inside the mine along the wall. I'll always ask him you want me to warm your food up ? He'll reply " you forgot i worked in the coal mine"
What does the last part mean about warming up the food? Is it because the coal mines are hot or something else?
@@j_bailey11 he said that they were actually cool and any food, if your lunch pal didn't stay warm you had to eat it cold. No washing your hands before eating and if you had a need to relieve yourself you did it in the mine.
The elderly are so interesting.(elderly, lol!!!, I'm 69😂) U can learn a lot of history listening to them.
fish and crab inside the mine??
@@lisab7394 I would love to be a coal mine worker
I was hired to do Coal work and I couldn't get passed the first 20 foot of the tunnel without thinking of being crushed from a collapse. You have to be a special kinda person to work deep in those tunnels.
Do you flag these people down on the streets? Or do you get referrals? Anywho, he seems like a hard worker
Good question, lol! I wonder the same.
same question
Id say both since some people he interviewed mentioned that they reached out to him for weeks
how do we even know they are real? i suspect they are all actors and actresses.. its UA-cam
Jack Deagon 🤣😂
That sweet , sweet mountain WV accent. Doesn't get any better than that!
@ 😁
the inbred accent right
@@steviejrr I don't even have to hear your voice to hear your ignorance. What a shame.
@@katiehenry7 inbred confirmed
@@steviejrr I'd bet my year's wages you wouldn't say something to this man's face lol
I could listen to him talk all day⛅
These are the best interviews on. UA-cam... Period. Just amazing
I wish him long life and safety!
oh shit you're really getting some interesting and unique interviews. thanks man!
Lord bless that young man. He is truly the salt of the earth and should be celebrated for his contributions. 🙏🏼 Thank you for sharing.
I absolutely love the variety of people who are interviewed. It seems like in many parts of Appalachia, people can’t find work, turn to drugs, etc, and here you have the opposite side to that. It’s very interesting to get a peak into their worlds. Thank you Mark.
I used to work in War, WV, born and raised very close to there. My dad and my bother were coalminers. When he says there are not many options there for work, he is 100% honest! Just like many others, they do what they have to do to be able to live in the beautiful state they grew up in. These are honest, hardworking people who deserve nothing but the utmost respect.