This is my Dog ,we grew up together ,last time i seen him was 17 years old in juvenile hall and then was reunited with him at 45 years old .he is an unbelievable man that made it through the depths of hell to back in society and he is living his best life now ! He will always be my dog !and i will always be there for him !
This interview deserves to have far more views !!!... It is a wonderful story of redemption, forgiveness and hope. Also when Brian explains his childhood and the feeling of being worthless, and the search of love and acceptance that lead him towards gang life, drugs and ultimately homicide, this hits hard, and many of the people that were interviewed on SWU can probably relate to his unfortunate start in life. The fact that he experienced unconditional love for the first time with the dog program in prison is so moving. Once again, it shows how important it is to have parents that are present for their children, physically, emotionally and loving and caring. It is wonderful that he managed to change himself the way he did. I am so proud of you Brian. Thank you Brian for telling your story. 💚
The dog program helping him outs speaks wonders. I do not have a criminal record but I am a solo guy, no many friends, never had many. When I long for some interaction, though it sounds corny, my cat gives me what I need. Animals do not speak. They do not judge. They are just there for you. A living, breathing, heart-beat having organism that depends on you as much as you depend on them.
Not only is this an amazing & inspiring story, he tells it really well. It makes a huge difference if the person communicates so well. Thank you so much for taking the time to tell you story! Thanks Mark for letting him tell it!
That is one helluva story! The best part of a lifetime spent figuring our yourself ... behind bars. His Granny gave her life for him, I feel sure. She traded her life for his to begin. Dogs. They are so precious, and look what dogs did for this man. I will remember this story for a very long time. I hope his turn-around will help him heal his scars.
I believe his Grandma probably did trade her life for his; I feel like my Grandpa did for me. When he died, I was able to kick an 11 year opiate addiction and get my life back!
agreed. ik mark has so many things going on at once and can’t please everyone, but it does make you wonder why he asks some people questions to encourage them to continue sharing, but some like this he just says thanks after a half hour and that is it. I could have listened to brian for another hour
Brian, you may have had a very difficult and heartbreaking start to life, but you are in an amazing place now. And while there may have been a lot to help you get here, it couldn’t happen without you. I’m so sorry you felt so worthless for far too long. Because you’re such a light. Incidentally, I’m currently in Ukraine volunteering with an NGO working with humanitarian aid distribution, etc. The organization I’m with (with a lot of encouragement and enthusiasm from me) is planning animal trauma therapy for soldiers and civilians in the near future. I believe in this approach with all of my heart and soul. Thank you for sharing your story! I would have watched if it had been 5x as long. You’re incredibly articulate and insightful.
I'd love to hear how you are getting along with the animal/trauma therapy program. Have you noticed the soldiers themselves gravitate to saving all of the cats and few dogs they can? I can't say too much here but Kiev Independant here and on X is my go to. Family there. What can I do to help with your program? $$$ of my own is non existent,having lost husband and only brother. Raising a disabled child alone. ❤🇨🇦🇺🇲🇺🇦
Zach Skow (Marleys Mutts) is a local celebrity where I live. He has done amazing work with his dogs and amazing work with the inmates with his training program. Tehachapi prison is bad news and it makes me so happy to see the changes that can occur when these dogs and men are given a second chance. Happy to hear he is doing well and has acknowledged the devastation caused by such a careless act, so happy for him that he can now navigate through bad and make a life for himself.
Wow! I almost didn't click but glad I did. I think many people, not just children of drug addicted parents, can relate to being confused by parents actions, feeling worthless like we have no one else, being taken in my a relative (aunt, uncle for me). A friend told me just yesterday that for me love is obligation. I make sure the people I love know they can count on me. Putting in the work has a different meaning for me, but i get seeking family. Ironically, i have none of my own. God bless Brian! Great storytellier, very open and honest. Mark, thank you too.
Brian, imo, has been your best guest. He's very articulate, raw, and honest. What you see is what you get. A lot of the guests on here have an excuse or play the blame game. Finally someone who has accountability and makes the necessary lifestyle changes for the better. Thank you for the awesome interview Brian/Mark.
Man ....that hit home when he talks about nurturing the feelings of being worthless and less than....I was the same exact way...music and basketball were my outlets too....and lived with grandparents....thats crazy man....thank you Brian here's hoping life is nothing but up from here for you bro
I wish i had someone like brian to talk to, feels like very few people know what its like to have their life flipped upside down because of our parents doing hard drugs...
My Dad passed away in July 2020. No person is perfect, but he was a smart, extremely honest, kind, and non-violent person who, more than anything else, always tried to do the right thing in his life. One thing he always would say to anyone who would listen is this: "I think it is criminal for any boy not to grow up with a dog." As I've grown older, I've really come to realize the wisdom in this. Of course your parents are the most influencial beings in your life. But dogs are right up there for the love they give and the lessons they teach.
It takes us lotta courage to come onto UA-cam, and be so brutally honest. I really admire Brian and his bravery. He is one of those rare souls that is willing to open his mind to looking at the world in a different way. It’s so easy to go into the negative and he isn’t !! he’s trying to be positive and make a difference, he is a great example for all of us. I really love how at the end of the day the dogs are the hero. I am a huge dog lover and they are very healing creatures.
Finally, someone I could slightly relate to. Doesn’t happen too often. My drug addicted birth parents taught me what not to be. They taught me that if your parents can screw you over, anyone can. Seeing them party with their friends was traumatizing. I remember one time all the guys took one of their guy friends to the garage, stripped him down to his underwear & hung him upside down. They thought it was funny. I was terrified & thought that they were all so stupid. My grandparents legally raised me & sent me to private school once I was with them full time. Sucks that it took my being ra*ed by my mothers boyfriend & her not believing me, to get to that point, but I know that I am so very fortunate that they did. My parents taught me that I didnt want to affiliate with anyone like them. I’m fortunate that although that taught me what not to do, my grandparents taught me what’s right. I’m glad that I was raised by an older generation. Thank you for sharing your story ❤️
Hey Ro, sry you went through that. I’m so glad that you were able to get in a better situation with your grandparents. You might not be the lovely Ro we all know and love now. Thank your grandparents for me.
Either because of damage to the developing brain in the womb (drug-taking parents) or trauma to the brain (certain viruses,etc.) during childhood or because they're hardwired that way (genetic hand-downs), *emotional maturity* never comes to some "adults;" they stay in a state of arrested development all their lives and destroy everything that comes in their path. The low emotional maturity present in these "adults" also means they have very little long-term gratitude for anything that's done for them and they usually blame anyone/everyone else for whatever self-destructive/criminal thing they get up to, which is typical of the behaviour of rebellious teenagers/delinquents. They often tick many of the boxes for psychopathic behaviour and when they become parents chaos usually ensues.
I thought this man looked familiar. I learned of him through Zack Skow and his prison program. Seems to be a wonderful thing for inmates and the dogs they learn to love. Love Zack and his dedicated work and so happy to hear this story. Best wishes to Brian, you weren't really given a fair chance as a kid. I hope you get one now.
My life isn't even close to yours but I will say getting my 2 puppies when I did saved my life from heroin and losing everything. All we want is to have unconditional love and a dog is the perfect way to get that.
WOW, this is incredible. The vulnerability displayed is purely heroic. It describes the reason all kids get involved in drugs. They feel unloved & not enough. Thankyou so much for sharing, Brian.
This has got to be the GREATEST, most impactful episode to have ever aired. His interview was the most meaningful one I've ever felt!! When he made the statement about the love he had been searching for his whole life, he found in that dog... I completely lost it. These are the stories that make amazing films!! Bravo to you, Brian!!! Thank you so much for sharing your story, and allowing us to witness you finding your true purpose of life at the end of it!! 🏆🏆🏆👏👏👏
What a beautiful inspiring story, I complain about work colleagues gossiping, and here is someone who live dealt an awful blow and has come out helping other, I cried for him as a young man and all the years he lost in prison
This is a beautiful story of redemption. My family has adopted two dogs from a similar training program, and they are the most well-behaved pets I’ve ever known. Changing the lives of both people and animals. ❤
Wow… this story makes me realize why I listen to these interviews. It’s very powerful and gives me a new perspective of people… to be more empathetic and to understand. Kindness goes a long way….
Wow. What a story. I was totally entranced in every word. Glad this man has changed his life and hope it will help other young men in his old position. Ty for your story.
Condolences and respect. Condolences to the family of the man who was killed. Respect to Brian for how far he has come, and sharing his history. Inspiring 🙏
This one made me cry mark .. Brian is from the same town me and my hubby' grew up in and he is also doing 20 plus years that's why the more Brian spoke about his life the more intrigued I was and the part of the pitbull and the SHU made me burst out in tears cuz it's soo true . And. Thoughts of my husband having gone through pretty much the same 😢 God bless u guys❤
What a great story of hope. Proud of you Brian, in spite of it all, you are making it through. Your grandma would be so proud and so pleased with you. Keep going, like you found out- you are worth it.
Damn! This was such a powerful and emotional roller coaster! Thank you Mark for letting Mr. James tell his story. Mr. James, when you first started this story I wept for you. To not experience the love and care from parents at such a tender age can really set the path for an individual. I hope you can continue to grow your compassion for others. Keep that blue book close.
I saw this video drop a few weeks ago at 2am and probably 15 min into it i tried to refresh and video was removed until now. This is super powerful one. thank you for making this available again!
This story moved me. Thank you for sharing your life. I hope you live in happiness now and help others. I’m sorry for your childhood and the loss of your dear grandmother.
my dad told me the exact same thing as he said at 15:50 , he went to jail at 21 because of a heroin-related thing and to give you an idea it was a Midnight Express (the movie) type of situation, thankfully he only had 4 years to do but at such a young age it broke him even more. i wish he got the chance to tell me more about his life but he passed away when i was very young, from what i know of it i'm sure he would've made a great interview for you because this isn't the only thing he experienced during his liftime
He is a great story teller. It was a tragic life and he made a 360 turn. Hopefully we get an update to see what he does now in life. I hope he can have a great life. Don’t let your past define your present
This was absolutely amazing. My heart is so full after hearing this inspiring story. I wish Brian nothing but happiness, and peace. God has definitely forgiven him for what he did. What a powerful testimony. I can feel energy, and Brian is 100 percent genuine.
Dogs are man’s best friend and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. They bring people into our lives we never would have met if they weren’t in our lives.
This is the first of these stories that has made me cry for the poor boy that Brian was. He just wanted to be loved. It's what all children come into existence wanting. We are made by Love, to Love, for Love. And when love is missing, the human being is destroyed. Love isn't an emotion. Love is willing the good of the other person, and making a sacrifice to make that good a reality (like when those women forgave Brian, so he could heal). When parents put themselves - their drugs, their affairs, their fights, their immaturity, their irresponsibility - before their children; when parents fail to love, all hell breaks loose.
Sir, you are an amazing individual and deserving of all the love you can handle! This brought me to tears and I am so very happy for and proud of you. I wish you continued success. Thank you for sharing your story. Mark, thank YOU for bringing this man to us!!
Only 2 minutes in, and I'm in aw at how great he is at explaining the feelings that come with that shit. This man truly understands the damage that can be done, and I love the way you tell your story man❤️
Awesome, awesome, awesome. NA and AA saved my life 42 years ago at the age of 19. I’m now 61 and have a beautiful life with all its trials and tribulations. 🎉❤
Idk you but I'm really proud of you, Brian. Touching the dog took me out and hearing the very end wrapped it up. Self worth is such a relatable human point. Thank you for sharing your story
It is so beautiful to hear a person who has been through so much to be on the road to recovery, especially when they can offer so much gratitude to a dog! ❤ I once told a date that my dog was my only love experienced in life thus far and when he laughed at me for it I knew instantly he didn’t have any experience of love in his own life. They are gifts, truly some of the best teachers
Much respect brother. Can't imagine your situation but I understand myself how hard personal change can be. I hope your life stays on the up and up and you get to finish this ride with a win.
❤ super proud to know, I am so close to his family! God did amazing things for them, Brian sister has the heart of gold, his mom has been sober for many years now 18+ . Amazing family god has always been by their side !
Brian, thank you for sharing your story. I'm so happy you turned your heart around so you can truly live. You were so interesting that I wanted to hear more. I'm happy your mom chose sobriety.❤️
Thank you for sharing this story. It was awesome to hear I was literally hanging on every word. When you started your empathy showed and I could tell instantly that you were no longer the “monster” and it was great to hear about what was inside of you. Not the war stories that 90% of people would have told. You have an amazing message and I pray that one of the youth that you tell your story to can feel it like I did and not end up getting put in a box for 29 years for something that ultimately 9 times out of 10 they won’t ever be able to deal with and either get killed or kill them selfs. Man that was real thanks again.
Glad to hear you're mentoring Brian, you've done an incredible job of turning your life around. You should be extremely proud, wishing you continued positivity !
I almost bailed on this interview... gang life wasn't what I was interested in hearing about... I am so glad that I hung in there and watched until the end... Brian, you are an amazing person to sit down and tell your story and take responsibility for the wrongs you did. I am sorry you grew up thinking that you weren't wanted nor loved. I am so happy that you have evolved beyond that to who and what you are today. I wish you peace, acceptance and harmony.
Thank you Brian! Such an amazing story with such a beautiful message. Thank you for speaking with your heart Brian. Such a powerful message. I relate so much to the feelings that you described. being shut down and not wanting to feel. thank you so much for your service always. what a gift you are and your story is so important. Thank you Mark for bringing his story to us.
I love how Brian said when he pet the dog 🐕 it was like a spiritual experience 💜💜💜 so true , something about animals 🐾🐾 probably the best SWU testimony I have ever heard ( and I listen to this alot ) thank you Mark ❣️❣️
I commend this gentleman for wanting a change in his life, and getting out there to make it happen. It's about love. ALWAYS has been. Keep healing, my brother.
Brian your story was real and raw. The dog program helped immensely and you also made a friend. That’s awesome. Considering all those years in prison you walked out clean and with a positive attitude. Thank God you found your purpose helping others. You sound very dedicated and that’s great. May God bless you Brian.
Brian, thank you for sharing your story. You are so self-aware. I think you would be a great advocate for change in the a Prison Ministry. I admire your strength. Peace to you❤❤
Brian your story is so eye opening. As a mother I fought to keep my 4 children out of the gangs in Chicago. Thankfully they turned out great! Brian you are a amazing man. You've learned the hard way but you are on the right path. Dogs also give us unconditional love! I have 4. Dog spelled backwards is God! Blessings 💫💜💫🐾🐾
That had me tearing up, what he said about the love that animals give us. Animals truly are better than us. They love unconditionally and they are never deliberately hurtful or destructive like we are (unless they've been done over by cruel humans). Im glad he thinks about the guy he murdered every day and realises what he did. I hope he continues to give back.
Incredible story. Incredible man that overcame circumstances where most would have given up. Very sad testimony but very encouraging and inspiring. May he be blessed and protected forever 🌈💜
Incredible story. I teared up several times. This man’s story is proof that a human being can change from inside out. Thanks so much for sharing what you learned. I hope it transforms lives and inspires others in the prison system to do the same.
This is my Dog ,we grew up together ,last time i seen him was 17 years old in juvenile hall and then was reunited with him at 45 years old .he is an unbelievable man that made it through the depths of hell to back in society and he is living his best life now ! He will always be my dog !and i will always be there for him !
This interview deserves to have far more views !!!... It is a wonderful story of redemption, forgiveness and hope. Also when Brian explains his childhood and the feeling of being worthless, and the search of love and acceptance that lead him towards gang life, drugs and ultimately homicide, this hits hard, and many of the people that were interviewed on SWU can probably relate to his unfortunate start in life. The fact that he experienced unconditional love for the first time with the dog program in prison is so moving. Once again, it shows how important it is to have parents that are present for their children, physically, emotionally and loving and caring. It is wonderful that he managed to change himself the way he did. I am so proud of you Brian. Thank you Brian for telling your story. 💚
Well said 👏
I would love to see an update. I hope you're doing well Brian. I wish you nothing, but peace and healing.
“My tears got bigger”. That was powerful. Amazing storyteller.
“ We don’t get to choose how we start in this life, Real greatness is what you do with the hand your dealt.”
The dog program helping him outs speaks wonders. I do not have a criminal record but I am a solo guy, no many friends, never had many. When I long for some interaction, though it sounds corny, my cat gives me what I need. Animals do not speak. They do not judge. They are just there for you. A living, breathing, heart-beat having organism that depends on you as much as you depend on them.
Not only is this an amazing & inspiring story, he tells it really well. It makes a huge difference if the person communicates so well.
Thank you so much for taking the time to tell you story! Thanks Mark for letting him tell it!
I had chills and started crying when he said “Those women put their arms around me and we cried for 30 min” very touching… Hope your well Brian ♥️
Ty 🙏
I cried too. The power of forgiveness.
Me too girl, also cried when he said that the love he had been looking for his whole life, he found in that dog 😭
Yep. That was… better than a movie, told many times before in rooms perhaps, like the main speaker
same, so moving
That is one helluva story! The best part of a lifetime spent figuring our yourself ... behind bars. His Granny gave her life for him, I feel sure. She traded her life for his to begin. Dogs. They are so precious, and look what dogs did for this man. I will remember this story for a very long time. I hope his turn-around will help him heal his scars.
I believe his Grandma probably did trade her life for his; I feel like my Grandpa did for me. When he died, I was able to kick an 11 year opiate addiction and get my life back!
This story will stay with me.
This guy is a good storyteller. For all the craziness he's been through, sharing that story could be his calling.
agreed. ik mark has so many things going on at once and can’t please everyone, but it does make you wonder why he asks some people questions to encourage them to continue sharing, but some like this he just says thanks after a half hour and that is it. I could have listened to brian for another hour
Brian, you may have had a very difficult and heartbreaking start to life, but you are in an amazing place now. And while there may have been a lot to help you get here, it couldn’t happen without you. I’m so sorry you felt so worthless for far too long. Because you’re such a light.
Incidentally, I’m currently in Ukraine volunteering with an NGO working with humanitarian aid distribution, etc. The organization I’m with (with a lot of encouragement and enthusiasm from me) is planning animal trauma therapy for soldiers and civilians in the near future. I believe in this approach with all of my heart and soul.
Thank you for sharing your story! I would have watched if it had been 5x as long. You’re incredibly articulate and insightful.
I'd love to hear how you are getting along with the animal/trauma therapy program. Have you noticed the soldiers themselves gravitate to saving all of the cats and few dogs they can? I can't say too much here but Kiev Independant here and on X is my go to. Family there. What can I do to help with your program? $$$ of my own is non existent,having lost husband and only brother. Raising a disabled child alone. ❤🇨🇦🇺🇲🇺🇦
Zach Skow (Marleys Mutts) is a local celebrity where I live. He has done amazing work with his dogs and amazing work with the inmates with his training program. Tehachapi prison is bad news and it makes me so happy to see the changes that can occur when these dogs and men are given a second chance. Happy to hear he is doing well and has acknowledged the devastation caused by such a careless act, so happy for him that he can now navigate through bad and make a life for himself.
Wow! I almost didn't click but glad I did. I think many people, not just children of drug addicted parents, can relate to being confused by parents actions, feeling worthless like we have no one else, being taken in my a relative (aunt, uncle for me). A friend told me just yesterday that for me love is obligation. I make sure the people I love know they can count on me. Putting in the work has a different meaning for me, but i get seeking family. Ironically, i have none of my own. God bless Brian! Great storytellier, very open and honest. Mark, thank you too.
Brian I get how an animal was able to give you the love you were craving so bad xx
What an inspirational story
Animals are amazing!
The crazy part is Brian knows himself more now than most people on the street. Amazing story, and I wish you the best Brian. I’m proud of ya.
Brian, imo, has been your best guest. He's very articulate, raw, and honest. What you see is what you get. A lot of the guests on here have an excuse or play the blame game. Finally someone who has accountability and makes the necessary lifestyle changes for the better. Thank you for the awesome interview Brian/Mark.
Theres plenty of recovered addicts on this channel. What are you on?
@La Vitorroja Suboxone. Is that your way of a little jab at someone making them feel inferior to you
I have heard this story in so many ways.
Not the things that he did.
The feelings he describes.
That was a great story
Man ....that hit home when he talks about nurturing the feelings of being worthless and less than....I was the same exact way...music and basketball were my outlets too....and lived with grandparents....thats crazy man....thank you Brian here's hoping life is nothing but up from here for you bro
What a absolutely great msg. Thank God for grandma's and dogs AND giving yourself a chance.
I wish i had someone like brian to talk to, feels like very few people know what its like to have their life flipped upside down because of our parents doing hard drugs...
My Dad passed away in July 2020. No person is perfect, but he was a smart, extremely honest, kind, and non-violent person who, more than anything else, always tried to do the right thing in his life. One thing he always would say to anyone who would listen is this: "I think it is criminal for any boy not to grow up with a dog." As I've grown older, I've really come to realize the wisdom in this. Of course your parents are the most influencial beings in your life. But dogs are right up there for the love they give and the lessons they teach.
Wow, this has been my daily reminder of “your life isn’t really that bad”
Thank you for sharing your story! It’s never too late to do good things
It takes us lotta courage to come onto UA-cam, and be so brutally honest. I really admire Brian and his bravery. He is one of those rare souls that is willing to open his mind to looking at the world in a different way. It’s so easy to go into the negative and he isn’t !!
he’s trying to be positive and make a difference, he is a great example for all of us. I really love how at the end of the day the dogs are the hero. I am a huge dog lover and they are very healing creatures.
Finally, someone I could slightly relate to. Doesn’t happen too often. My drug addicted birth parents taught me what not to be. They taught me that if your parents can screw you over, anyone can. Seeing them party with their friends was traumatizing. I remember one time all the guys took one of their guy friends to the garage, stripped him down to his underwear & hung him upside down. They thought it was funny. I was terrified & thought that they were all so stupid. My grandparents legally raised me & sent me to private school once I was with them full time. Sucks that it took my being ra*ed by my mothers boyfriend & her not believing me, to get to that point, but I know that I am so very fortunate that they did. My parents taught me that I didnt want to affiliate with anyone like them. I’m fortunate that although that taught me what not to do, my grandparents taught me what’s right. I’m glad that I was raised by an older generation.
Thank you for sharing your story ❤️
Hey Ro, sry you went through that. I’m so glad that you were able to get in a better situation with your grandparents. You might not be the lovely Ro we all know and love now. Thank your grandparents for me.
Either because of damage to the developing brain in the womb (drug-taking parents) or trauma to the brain (certain viruses,etc.) during childhood or because they're hardwired that way (genetic hand-downs), *emotional maturity* never comes to some "adults;" they stay in a state of arrested development all their lives and destroy everything that comes in their path.
The low emotional maturity present in these "adults" also means they have very little long-term gratitude for anything that's done for them and they usually blame anyone/everyone else for whatever self-destructive/criminal thing they get up to, which is typical of the behaviour of rebellious teenagers/delinquents. They often tick many of the boxes for psychopathic behaviour and when they become parents chaos usually ensues.
I hope he's not putting on an act for the camera. These guys can be convincing actors.
@@stopthephilosophicalzombie9017 Just listen, you don't need to pass judgement.
Omg baby I'm so sorry to hear you went through that. My mom was a screw up but nothing like that.
Thank you for the interview Brian and SWU
I thought this man looked familiar. I learned of him through Zack Skow and his prison program. Seems to be a wonderful thing for inmates and the dogs they learn to love. Love Zack and his dedicated work and so happy to hear this story. Best wishes to Brian, you weren't really given a fair chance as a kid. I hope you get one now.
This was one of best interviews on here
One of the most profound interviews yet!! The amount of authenticity and ownership is astounding. Continued blessings and healing.🙏🏾
My life isn't even close to yours but I will say getting my 2 puppies when I did saved my life from heroin and losing everything. All we want is to have unconditional love and a dog is the perfect way to get that.
Agreed. My dogs ( chiuaha and Pitbull) saved my life.
Thnx. Have nice day
WOW, this is incredible. The vulnerability displayed is purely heroic. It describes the reason all kids get involved in drugs. They feel unloved & not enough. Thankyou so much for sharing, Brian.
Love this story. Guy is standing tall a man who was never taught how to be a man. Hope you save many young men from the hardship you endured.
Thank you for sharing your story, Brian.
This has got to be the GREATEST, most impactful episode to have ever aired. His interview was the most meaningful one I've ever felt!!
When he made the statement about the love he had been searching for his whole life, he found in that dog... I completely lost it. These are the stories that make amazing films!! Bravo to you, Brian!!! Thank you so much for sharing your story, and allowing us to witness you finding your true purpose of life at the end of it!! 🏆🏆🏆👏👏👏
This guy was so great at telling his story. Glad to see you came around.
whatching many times, always in tears.. the Dog programm, such a beautiful expirience.. animal love is unconditional, Thanks for Your story
What a beautiful inspiring story, I complain about work colleagues gossiping, and here is someone who live dealt an awful blow and has come out helping other, I cried for him as a young man and all the years he lost in prison
This is a beautiful story of redemption.
My family has adopted two dogs from a similar training program, and they are the most well-behaved pets I’ve ever known. Changing the lives of both people and animals. ❤
This is one of the better ones recently. This guy was very articulate and incredibly well spoken. Mad respect for educating and bettering himself
I would love to see an update video please ❤
What an amazing story . Thank u for sharing Brian 🙏
Wow… this story makes me realize why I listen to these interviews. It’s very powerful and gives me a new perspective of people… to be more empathetic and to understand. Kindness goes a long way….
Wow. What a story. I was totally entranced in every word. Glad this man has changed his life and hope it will help other young men in his old position. Ty for your story.
This is the one only so far that brought tears to my eyes especially when he talked about the dog.
Condolences and respect. Condolences to the family of the man who was killed. Respect to Brian for how far he has come, and sharing his history. Inspiring 🙏
This one made me cry mark .. Brian is from the same town me and my hubby' grew up in and he is also doing 20 plus years that's why the more Brian spoke about his life the more intrigued I was and the part of the pitbull and the SHU made me burst out in tears cuz it's soo true . And. Thoughts of my husband having gone through pretty much the same 😢 God bless u guys❤
What a great story of hope. Proud of you Brian, in spite of it all, you are making it through. Your grandma would be so proud and so pleased with you. Keep going, like you found out- you are worth it.
Brian, you my friend are a beacon of light. Thank you.
Damn! This was such a powerful and emotional roller coaster! Thank you Mark for letting Mr. James tell his story. Mr. James, when you first started this story I wept for you. To not experience the love and care from parents at such a tender age can really set the path for an individual. I hope you can continue to grow your compassion for others. Keep that blue book close.
I am so moved by this...crying and glad I listened to Brian, I was truly rejected too.
So glad the Dog-training program was helpful in getting you back on track. Thank you for training the dog to make a difference and Pay-It-Forward!
Great story. Glad you are sober Brian!
I saw this video drop a few weeks ago at 2am and probably 15 min into it i tried to refresh and video was removed until now. This is super powerful one. thank you for making this available again!
This story moved me. Thank you for sharing your life. I hope you live in happiness now and help others. I’m sorry for your childhood and the loss of your dear grandmother.
my dad told me the exact same thing as he said at 15:50 , he went to jail at 21 because of a heroin-related thing and to give you an idea it was a Midnight Express (the movie) type of situation, thankfully he only had 4 years to do but at such a young age it broke him even more. i wish he got the chance to tell me more about his life but he passed away when i was very young, from what i know of it i'm sure he would've made a great interview for you because this isn't the only thing he experienced during his liftime
Amazing story. "Rehabilitation" doesn't happen in prison until you're willing to accept it. So proud of this man.
He is a great story teller. It was a tragic life and he made a 360 turn. Hopefully we get an update to see what he does now in life. I hope he can have a great life. Don’t let your past define your present
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This was absolutely amazing. My heart is so full after hearing this inspiring story. I wish Brian nothing but happiness, and peace. God has definitely forgiven him for what he did. What a powerful testimony. I can feel energy, and Brian is 100 percent genuine.
Dogs are man’s best friend and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. They bring people into our lives we never would have met if they weren’t in our lives.
This is the first of these stories that has made me cry for the poor boy that Brian was. He just wanted to be loved. It's what all children come into existence wanting. We are made by Love, to Love, for Love. And when love is missing, the human being is destroyed. Love isn't an emotion. Love is willing the good of the other person, and making a sacrifice to make that good a reality (like when those women forgave Brian, so he could heal). When parents put themselves - their drugs, their affairs, their fights, their immaturity, their irresponsibility - before their children; when parents fail to love, all hell breaks loose.
Well said, especially to all the women who can't conceive 😢
Amazing. I wish for this man all the blessings he can share with the unconditional love of his history. He has so much to offer💯 thank you❤
What a story, I especially respect the way Brian articulates the journey. Peace .
Sir, you are an amazing individual and deserving of all the love you can handle! This brought me to tears and I am so very happy for and proud of you. I wish you continued success. Thank you for sharing your story.
Mark, thank YOU for bringing this man to us!!
Only 2 minutes in, and I'm in aw at how great he is at explaining the feelings that come with that shit. This man truly understands the damage that can be done, and I love the way you tell your story man❤️
Awesome, awesome, awesome.
NA and AA saved my life 42 years ago at the age of 19. I’m now 61 and have a beautiful life with all its trials and tribulations. 🎉❤
Idk you but I'm really proud of you, Brian.
Touching the dog took me out and hearing the very end wrapped it up.
Self worth is such a relatable human point.
Thank you for sharing your story
Thank you😊
It is so beautiful to hear a person who has been through so much to be on the road to recovery, especially when they can offer so much gratitude to a dog! ❤
I once told a date that my dog was my only love experienced in life thus far and when he laughed at me for it I knew instantly he didn’t have any experience of love in his own life. They are gifts, truly some of the best teachers
Much respect brother. Can't imagine your situation but I understand myself how hard personal change can be. I hope your life stays on the up and up and you get to finish this ride with a win.
Lost for words.THANK YOU!
Brian!! Thank you for sharing your story. What a testimony you have. I pray blessings over you Brother!!
Wow what a story, and an amazing outcome for you Brian. Be proud of who you are NOW. Would love to have Part 2 of Brians story. Totally interesting.
❤ super proud to know, I am so close to his family! God did amazing things for them, Brian sister has the heart of gold, his mom has been sober for many years now 18+ . Amazing family god has always been by their side !
What a amazing interview/story!
That spirit of rejection is horrible once it sinks it's nails in a young person, we all have love & a Father through Christ 💜
Incredible storyteller. Incredible person. Prayers for him on his path. His grandma is looking down on him and she is proud ❤
Best one I’ve seen. Really enjoyed listening to him tell his story ❤
Brian, thank you for sharing your story. I'm so happy you turned your heart around so you can truly live. You were so interesting that I wanted to hear more.
I'm happy your mom chose sobriety.❤️
Thank you for sharing this story. It was awesome to hear I was literally hanging on every word. When you started your empathy showed and I could tell instantly that you were no longer the “monster” and it was great to hear about what was inside of you. Not the war stories that 90% of people would have told. You have an amazing message and I pray that one of the youth that you tell your story to can feel it like I did and not end up getting put in a box for 29 years for something that ultimately 9 times out of 10 they won’t ever be able to deal with and either get killed or kill them selfs. Man that was real thanks again.
Thank you so much you’re words and all the encouragement are what drive me to always be in service to those in need
Glad to hear you're mentoring Brian, you've done an incredible job of turning your life around. You should be extremely proud, wishing you continued positivity !
Dogs are so healing. I am relying on my three right now, as I've recently been traumatized badly by someone I completely trusted.
I'm glad you have your dogs and I wish you healing and love.
I almost bailed on this interview... gang life wasn't what I was interested in hearing about... I am so glad that I hung in there and watched until the end... Brian, you are an amazing person to sit down and tell your story and take responsibility for the wrongs you did. I am sorry you grew up thinking that you weren't wanted nor loved. I am so happy that you have evolved beyond that to who and what you are today. I wish you peace, acceptance and harmony.
Much Love & Respect for you & your Family Brian. You are a Big positive impact on that lifestyle & the Animal Community. Godspeed Brother 🙏🙌
Thank you Brian! Such an amazing story with such a beautiful message. Thank you for speaking with your heart Brian. Such a powerful message. I relate so much to the feelings that you described. being shut down and not wanting to feel. thank you so much for your service always. what a gift you are and your story is so important. Thank you Mark for bringing his story to us.
You seem like a clean, honest, good man. When you mentioned Zack Scow, I lit up! So happy your life has changed!
I love how Brian said when he pet the dog 🐕 it was like a spiritual experience 💜💜💜 so true , something about animals 🐾🐾 probably the best SWU testimony I have ever heard ( and I listen to this alot ) thank you Mark ❣️❣️
Great interview! I’ve been following Zach Skow for years and love that he does these programs in the prisons. Amazing!!
Thanks Brian for making a difference. ❤
The growth and self-reflection is amazing ❤
I commend this gentleman for wanting a change in his life, and getting out there to make it happen. It's about love. ALWAYS has been. Keep healing, my brother.
Brian your story was real and raw. The dog program helped immensely and you also made a friend. That’s awesome. Considering all those years in prison you walked out clean and with a positive attitude. Thank God you found your purpose helping others. You sound very dedicated and that’s great. May God bless you Brian.
Brian, thank you for sharing your story. You are so self-aware. I think you would be a great advocate for change in the a Prison Ministry. I admire your strength. Peace to you❤❤
Top 5 favorite interview. Beautiful story.
Good job Sir. I hope everything goes well for you and you remain clean. Best of lucks and thank you for sharing.
Brian you can help a lot of people with your story,God Bless You and thanks !
Brian your story is so eye opening. As a mother I fought to keep my 4 children out of the gangs in Chicago. Thankfully they turned out great! Brian you are a amazing man. You've learned the hard way but you are on the right path. Dogs also give us unconditional love! I have 4. Dog spelled backwards is God! Blessings 💫💜💫🐾🐾
You're a good Mom! Bless you 💜💞
That had me tearing up, what he said about the love that animals give us.
Animals truly are better than us.
They love unconditionally and they are never deliberately hurtful or destructive like we are (unless they've been done over by cruel humans).
Im glad he thinks about the guy he murdered every day and realises what he did. I hope he continues to give back.
I love this story ❤️ Best of luck Brian, you definitely deserve a great rest of your life.
Incredible story. Incredible man that overcame circumstances where most would have given up. Very sad testimony but very encouraging and inspiring. May he be blessed and protected forever 🌈💜
these stories are my favorite. crying like a baby rn 😭
Incredible story. I teared up several times. This man’s story is proof that a human being can change from inside out. Thanks so much for sharing what you learned. I hope it transforms lives and inspires others in the prison system to do the same.
A great story! And a perfect example of what love and compassion can do. I’m proud of you, Brian! I wish you all the happiness and its causes!
What an incredible man.