If any of you guys out there are struggling with addiction of any kind just know you’re not alone and there’s people out there that love you. All change starts with a choice. we’re in this together gang ❤️
Anyone in maryland looking to get sober. Annapolis is a great place to start/live. So many recovery houses and meetings. I went to hope House and got sober and away from bmore. Dont miss scramble, trashcans or fent love bmore but its not a home anymore
Guys like Nick are hard to come by. Good on him for trying to make a difference for such a long time without getting crushed by what must feel like a losing battle at times.
I'm an ex heroin addict from Baltimore. I got out before fentanyl hit. Couldn't imagine how bad it is now. Lost tons of friends. Prolly 12 or more. But yet Baltimore keep voting the same. Fucking rediculous. Been blue over 60 years. Lol at least try independent. Look at what the Dems have done to the place and last 3 mayors been locked up!
Addiction is like walking into a large cave without a light. Things get dark very quickly & you never know if you're about to walk off "the cliff" or not. By the time you've realized you've gone too far... you either have to fight & crawl your way back out or give up & just learn to survive in that darkness.
@@davidfaustino4476aye real shit no matter how you feel about addicted and drug users you don’t know those people. They human just like the rest of us and apparently just like you
What about that is easy? You have it easy. You're privileged enough not to suffer, but you have the audacity to say they choose the easy way out. I bet no one in your life wants to be near you, especially with how dumb and crazy you are 😂@davidfaustino4476
Brandon I am so happy you decided to continue your TH-cam career. You are THE most unique creator on here and I always find myself invested in your videos. Much love
I have struggled with mental illness and my mental health since I was a kid. Before I even knew what those terms were. After years of depression, anxiety, and even an attempt to take my life, I never thought I would be able to live without psych medications like opioids. I clung to them because it was the only thing that made my mind quiet, but it also made me a zombie. Microdosing has given me control of my mental health for the first time, and they essentially gave me my life back.
I’ve been researching on psychedelics and it’s benefits to individuals dealing with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD and from my findings, they really work and I’ve been eager to get some for a while but its been difficult to get my hands on them.
The Trips I've been having really helped me a lot. I’m now able to meditate and I finally feel in control of my emotions and my future and things that used to be mundane to me now seem incredible and full of nuance on top of that I'm way less driven by my ego and I have alot more empathy as well
@ohmakure4716 I feel the same way too. I put too much on my plate and it definitely affects my stress and anxiety levels. I am also glad to be a part of this community.
This video wqs filmed my Matt Hoffacker instagram.com/acticinematics?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== and Moustafa Daher: instagram.com/moustafadaher?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
I just wanna highlight how at 9:30 neither brandon nor the cameraman even thought for a single second about putting that person offscreen on camera. So respectful of their privacy in a dark moment of their lives when so many youtubers, and even more "professional" news or documentatary crews would've immediately had the instinct to "use the junkie for content".
My mom taught me how to cop in Kensington, we used together. She revived me once and two weeks later I failed in reviving her and she died in my arms. October 2016.. haven’t used heroin since.
@@perc3136 she was in another room and within a few minutes her heart had already stopped shortly after I found her. Beyond narcan at that point.. though I still tried.. only takes 4 mins without oxygen for brain death.
Mad respect for you Brandon. Not being a bystander and trying to get more people informed and potentially help someone in dire need. You're doing your brother proud man, without a doubt.
I'm an ex heroin addict from Baltimore. I got out before fentanyl hit. Couldn't imagine how bad it is now. Lost tons of friends. Prolly 12 or more. But yet Baltimore keep voting the same. Fucking rediculous. Been blue over 60 years. Lol at least try independent. Look at what the Dems have done to the place and last 3 mayors been locked up!
I am a former fentanyl addict and I used to spend time in those very places shown on camera in this video… it is absolutely surreal seeing how I used to not care about being in that environment and how bad it looks to me now. Please get help if you are an addict. You literally won’t regret it for a second and you will live a much much happier life. God bless everyone and please please be safe and get help. ❤️
Brandon. I lost a brother to fentanyl in 2018. Thank you for making this video, so many of us are survivors of this who lost family, friends, and community members we loved, as are you. Love and peace.
@@badmombai can't say I sympathize with you. Unlike your brother and others like him, only those who know how to use drugs will survive. Most of these stupid fucks don't even realize that LD50 for Fentanyl is 3 mg. I think you should start a campaign for legalizing drugs, it would definitely help with overdoses; but drug education is much more critical.
Dude... you are going to EXPLODE with this content. You are really coming to fruition as an incredible social journalist Brandon! 1 Million within the year for sure.
Awesome job bringing this to more light man. Even when Jesus walked he wasn't hanging around the rich and high class, he was in the slums helping the people and listening to their story. God bless you for this work Brandon.
Speaking as somebody from Baltimore that not too long ago was holed up in the motel six on North Avenue, strung out and selling myself, completely spiritually bankrupt. Thank you for doing this. Dipping in and out the alleys and bandos and shit can be real traumatic. I’m clean today thankfully, but man drug addiction fucking rocked my world.
Nick seems real passionate about helping the people stuck in the vicious cycle of addiction. It’s honestly great to see people still caring for the people who forgot to care for themselves.
I moved out of Baltimore recently after living in Pigtown for 5 years. The amount of people I would see doing the "corner zombie lean" when I first moved there was insane. It was already bad but things got way out of hand due to the pandemic. I would ride my bike through the city on the regs and I got to see the rapid decline with my own eyes. It's a city of sorrows and it's spreading through all the neighborhoods. Thank you for bring more attention to the pain within the city I once calles home.
Nah son Bmore is a cancer and there’s no cure for it. It’s F’d up but that’s the reality. I won’t even give a mf a cigarette because they ain’t do nothing for it except beg their whole life. Any bum pulls a weapon on me they’re done I don’t play I grew up in this State and I’m done with it. It’s only Bmore that pisses me off
I love how this guy at 8:00 just states that he came out there because he's an addict and thought it would be easier out there. At least he's honest. Most of these people who are being interviewed (esp. in Phoenix) all have their story of how they ended up there, but you can always tell it's not true, or not the whole truth. They came because they are addicted and thought it would be easier out there. Seeing an honest addict is rare because lying is a symptom of addiction. There's hope for you Mike Nagel (Dutch ancestors?) You have what most addicts lack: the ability to honestly evaluate your situation. That is the first and most important step towards recovery. I wish you the best.
I live about 25 minutes away from downtown Baltimore, nothing in this video is sugarcoated or hyperbolized. This IS the reality of the opioid crisis in Baltimore
As a recovery support specialist who works in treatment and someone with over half a decade clean I pray and hope all these people can find their way to the light of sobriety.
Superb stuff Brandon! You have so many assets that make you a great documentary maker and interviewer. Between the respectful but incisive question, interesting topics for videos, allowing interviewees to speak freely and candidly and not ever seeming above the people and cultures you interact with. Bravo, looking forward to future uploads 💪
Brandon is one of the most underrated and greatest TH-camrs still going, I love how he’s capable of making both fun and insightful content. This video was genuinely really educational yet entertaining and inspired me to research further.
I love the way your content has evolved over time. Using your on the ground approach to shine a light on real societal issues isn't something you see very much on TH-cam or anywhere in the media for that matter. Keep it up!
Nick is out here doing the work of a saint, it's so defeating to be in the circles trying and trying to help people and the help is always needed cause the dope will never stop coming. Truly Sisyphean and admirable, a strong spirit
Found Brandon through Ice and started watching his previous work. I feel like saying that he does a underrated job producing some quality and comedic content. He also seems to carry great empathy and has respectable morals. Was an easy subscription.
I was addicted to pain pills in 2006 from an accident at 18, turned into 7 yrs of hell, buried 17 ppl, found my best friends dad who committed suicide and a yr later my best friend OD and died. So I went on a rampage, 2013 went to a rehab in Detroit, a yr program completed came out with my chest puffed up. Long story short got into a relationship with this girl, who introduced me to heroin, that's a whole long story in itself, from homelessness, rehabs, jail, overdoses, I've seen it all and Jesus was the only one who pulled me outta that life, the demons and darkness that comes with that ain't nothing to play with, i wrecked everything and everyone around me, and Christ changed it. I'm 4 years clean, 2 yrs into God removed all the dreams, thoughts, all those fucked up thoughts, to where now I just wanna do the opposite and help those in this trap, you can never loose hope, if you want it bad enough you just gotta pull yourself up. Thanks Brandon for shedding light on what goes unseen
@@bimapringgohe got addicted by pain pills lol did u not read? Not tryna be an ass but it can literally just be one time and dat warm feeling u love, ur gonna do everything ur gonna want to chase it. Glad bro above got clean, im currently tryna recover from fent
Nick, you were the inspiration I needed today. My whole family recently moved to Wyoming to escape a rough part of California. You reminded me why staying was the right choice. This is my home. With mixed ancestry I have no homeland but here. My great grandfathers built the homes in this neighborhood, my grandfather installed the powerlines and my parents were married at the local park. This is my home and these are my people and I refuse to give up on them no matter how broken they may seem. Its hard. Its REAL hard maintaining the resolve to keep getting out there and talking to people on the streets when so many people are complete dirtbags but you remind me to stay strong. This is the type of person Jesus AND Krishna wanted us to be. This is true love and devotion. The kind of Bhakti I aspire to have.
Another awesome job, Brandon. Learned about Tommy G through your older content and continued to be a fan of his work as well. Thank you for putting so much love into your work!
Supposedly back in the day needle exchanges would give you a new needle for every used needle you brought in that they would properly dispose of. I genuinely think this approach shouldn’t have been abandoned
I’m glad to say in august I’ll be 3 years clean off of opioids after 10 plus years of addiction and the only thing I regret is not doing it sooner, best decision I ever made and I never want to go back to that life. Anybody out there struggling it’s not too late I got my second chance at life at 26, you can do it it’s not as hard as your mind is telling you, it hurts physically but it’s a mental thing too you just gotta persevere and know that life can be better than where you are now, I’ve been there living in my car hungry cus I spent all my money on drugs, that’s no way to live
It reaches out and touches many families in surrounding communities as well. Northern va has been hit hard too. As far as the works/rigs/needles... A lot of addicts also just go to a pharmacy and request insulin syringes, which you can but with out showing a script for insulin. Appreciate yall taking the time to shed light on a problem and area that reached out and touched me a state away.
Thank you for making this, Brandon. Longtime fan and used to use H all the time. Been about 7 years since. You're doing really informative, real, and entertaining videos. Thank you and hope you're doing well.
I don't think hero is the right way to describe it, and maybe he would agree. At the end of the day he's trying to generate views and subs for TH-cam, and his career. There's nothing wrong with that at all, and I say don't ever hate a man for making a dollar. But, to call it heroic I think is greatly misplaced. It's rough that we live in a society where simply going to a bad place and talking to people down on their luck at your own benefit is called heroic. Those firefighters that died trying to stop a fire from spreading, that's far more heroic. They're paid to do that as well. But if you want to find a hero look at the people volunteering time in churches & outreaches. Even the dude with the non-profit/go-fund-me, he MIGHT be heroic. Often-times those people are actually just benefiting off an industry. I live in Maryland, and my taxes are being used to give free things to people who don't work and are addicted. So I have no choice in that, but we've done that for years, and we're just getting more people on the streets addicted.
@@EE-uj6tw I'm not sure if you're joking or not, but the job doesn't come with choices in which fires to put out. If there is a fire burning they put it out regardless of where it's happening.
You're doing great work with all your content man. Its very clearly getting better and better and it's really awesome to see you succeeding at your calling in this life.
I wanna say, I really appreciate the direction your channel is going. I like the funny and insane antics here and there, yet this sort of content is phenomenal. Please keep it up Brandon. Youre doing good work
Bro that Nick dude is an Angel, thats the only thing that describes people like him. Thanks for this video Brandon you and Tommy G and Nick did a hell of a job showing people whats happening out here.
I love the vibe in this video bro, I'm coming up on a year clean and seeing the work bro is out there putting in day in and day out made me get goosebumps, got nothing but love for stuff like this, donated as much as I could to the go fund me,.. motivation bro motivation.... We do recover 💪💪
Hey man thanks for this. I’m by no means a kid. I’ve got kids almost as old as Brandon. Yet it took Nick’s “Nirvana” speech to make me really start thinking. I’m fairly successful in life too. Yet I dabble with my vices. My son is my Nirvana. My whole family really but my 7yo son needs me the most!!!
You are a beautiful reporter. I have followed you for years and to see you grow is truly beautiful. I hope you achieve much much more as you deserve it.
R Long representin! FR tho, coming up in Baltimore and going thru it - a lot of people here can't even imagine a life outside the avenue. Before the Peanut king got this thing started, it was the corner bar that used to be in every neighborhood. People's minds can be real small in Baltimore, you can do it all on the block - or at least that's the way we came up. I have been sober and a functioning member of society and it still gets me sometimes. It starts with how we raise our kids and education.
lived this life for 15+ years, very glad to say im 3+ years clean but im one bad day away from the streets again n thats something u learn to live with n avoid at all costs. if ur in the struggle, i love you. genuinely
I wanted to say to you Brandon that i found your channel after hearing you on Mutahar, Nux and Oompa's podcast and i gotta say you are doing a lot of stuff here not many people would even want to do. Not the mainstream media even wants to do some of the you're doing shining a light on the crises plaguing this country
Thanks for doing this. Sober and productive individual for 5 years now. Doctors told my family I wouldn’t make it past 22. Currently 36 and the healthiest I’ve ever been. Most people that know me would have no idea about my past either. Unfortunately my twin brother was not so lucky. Not being sober and in a position where I couldn’t help him in time was the catalyst for my transformation. Never again will I fail to be available to anyone I love . Addiction is a war of attrition. Stay alive long enough to experience the moment that you genuinely want out and to operate differently.
Man I've never heard a doctor say those words even when I've had family shooting dope at 12 just saying that parts bs and I don't know why so many people have the need to say so it's just intention seeking you can come out say how bad it was for you but that's just bs mam
Love you dude. That core love you share with/have for other people really shines through in this video. If you're watching this as a first time viewer, and are worried about "is this man authentic in what he says/mean" please go back and watch all he's overcome himself. One cold ass rider.
Never expected this collab. Even before watching it I can tell this will be great. Thanks for making this video, not enough people are talking about the opioid epidemic!
I’m from Baltimore, I lived in several areas in the city. Me and my wife came up rough. I was living that life. I got clean after 10 years and a lot of failed attempts and a lot of dead friends and support from my family and I just wanted to put it out there, no matter how many times we fail we must keep trying… it only takes one win
My father left Philly (which is already fvcked) for the drugs in Baltimore because that city attracts lost souls for some reason. I see him every few years or so but it’s always a toss up as to whether or not he’s alive. He gives me the “I’m so sorry for xyz” spiel still circumventing accountability but i told him “i don’t hold nothing against you” no sense in groveling to your estranged son. Baltimore is a hell state and my dad’s a dead man walking as long as he frequents those abandoned buildings.
I appreciate you for covering this scene Brandon! I got my sister to watch your videos and she was a big fan of you. We actually always watch your videos together and shit. Although she actually just overdosed on a laced perc and died in February at 26 years old.
Love you brandon, thanks for shining a bright light on a topic not many people want to accept and view in society but its a major point. Keep up the good work boss.
I’ve been drinking and smoking none stop for years I’m 26 I’m sad and I feel as though I know why. Thank you Brandon for sharing this video. To everyone out there, there’s light at the end of the tunnel. I love you and you can change xoxo 😘
Everyone wants the gvernment to fix a problem that is all about spiritual malaise. You have to hold people accountable for their actions. We haven't been doing that and look at the result. "Harm Reduction" so you can continue harming yourself is laughable.
I'm in my early 40s, and grew up in SW/S Baltimore, and from what I remember it's always been this way. I moved out of state in 02, and I'd never move back. I have a family member who will be 8 years clean next month, so congrats to them!
I watched Tommy G's vid, which was impactful, but the fact you unblurred so much it made it much more impactful. Nick is doing some tough work in those streets, good move involving him and thank you for sharing this!
brandon & friends out here doin the lord’s work. this is a topic we never need to stop talking about it. it’s getting worse by the minute. too many people, young & old, are dying.
Recovering addict here. Withdrew on my own. There are ways to do it. I was on fent/H, and it wasn't easy, but the vitamins/cannabis I used took care of the vomiting and diarrhea. It made my withdrawal a hard, hard 2-3, on a scale of 1-10. If you want it bad enough, you can do it. Im so grateful to wake up well every day and not need to go to any methadone clinic or take subs. I hope somebody gets the will to quit after seeing this.
Nick came up to me n my brother in SW Baltimore. "Hey homeboy are you interested in inpatient treatment? Next day he was out front my home in a scan to take me to gardenzia treatment center. Me n my brother both walked out not even 24 hours later. But eventually we both got it together now we're both working have wives and kids living in the county. This man really does this everyday and good on him.
As someone that finally got help after 14+ jail trips 8 + rehabs all before 23. I’m 30 now. Making that first choice to get help was so hard because I would always worry about the “when I get out” aspect. DONT WORRY ABOUT THAT. Get clean first then everything else will fall in place and just NEVER pick up again no matter WHAT.
the conversation you had with that couple around 14:00 was so insightful. really hope that girl gets the help she needs, because she seems like a very bright soul
This was a very good and informative video. And, as a former morphine addict I must say that Nicks `gold under the water` analogy was REALLY good! You swim to the bottom in hopes of bettering things a little bit, then you find the `gold` and suddenly the greed (addiction) takes to hard of a hold and you stay stuck at the bottom until you run out of oxygen. Seriously, its one of the best description of addiction I have heard! And, another thought, maybe building up a real social security net and healthcare for all is an idea worth exploring for USA too? Today it seems like its only, I call them Angels, like Nick and people like him that try and wants to help. Personally I think the state (not in a forcefull way) needs to be more invested in making its peoples life better. And I mean All its people. Free healthcare for all isnt the same as going commie!
Brandon you are the most real person on the platform right now. Such beautiful work you’re doing man. If you’re ever in Tulsa I want to get you and your crew drinks
My hat is off to nick man. He seems like a really genuine dude that wants to help. I hope that young couple yall talked to actually get the help they need. They seem like good people. Just like a lot of other addicts.
If any of you guys out there are struggling with addiction of any kind just know you’re not alone and there’s people out there that love you. All change starts with a choice. we’re in this together gang ❤️
thanks b. always rootin for you and the work you do.
I’m addicted to that pussy thang.
I need methadone, do you have the methadone
Proud to say I’m over 2 years clean, keep doin what you do brandon
im addicted to blasting anuses
I find Brandon insightful and eloquent. It was an honor working on this piece with him.
I'm a scammer because of Tommy Gee
Tommy you inspired me to cook crack in chiraq
Just made 420,000 rubles doing this one easy trick, find out on the next episode
The FBI is listening to us 😳
Some wizard just stole 420,000 rubles from me please help me tommygee
Nick got me into a program in 2021. Awesome guy who genuinely cares. I owe him the world fr
Anyone in maryland looking to get sober. Annapolis is a great place to start/live. So many recovery houses and meetings. I went to hope House and got sober and away from bmore. Dont miss scramble, trashcans or fent
love bmore but its not a home anymore
he got me into a program too. took me out the road to get me out of baltimore. genuine guy
@@plantdaddy7738 I am proud of you big bro
Nick's "underwater" analogy was brilliant and insightful. Punctuating it by calling it "oppression of the soul" was poetic.
Hello you want Drug$ ?
Original stuff
i came to the comments to see if anyone else noticed how he just def jam poetryed brandon
It was absolutely BEAUTIFULLY AMAZING & Totally SAD at the same time. Just unreal how real
This is the comment I was looking for
That was the longest non analogy I’ve ever heard 😂😂😂 but it was kinda weirdly poetic
Thank you for doing this 🙏
Wow graced by the Legend Tay!
The legend
Aye tay
You’re a legend dude
use to pop the pain killers tryna stop the pain/
nowadays it's not the same, its China white n not the chocolate rain
Bro that Nick guy has one hell of a spirit. It's rare to see someone so devoted helping others like that.
Sad but tru, great to see this man helping out, good dude
Guys like Nick are hard to come by. Good on him for trying to make a difference for such a long time without getting crushed by what must feel like a losing battle at times.
I'm an ex heroin addict from Baltimore. I got out before fentanyl hit. Couldn't imagine how bad it is now. Lost tons of friends. Prolly 12 or more. But yet Baltimore keep voting the same. Fucking rediculous. Been blue over 60 years. Lol at least try independent. Look at what the Dems have done to the place and last 3 mayors been locked up!
Addiction is like walking into a large cave without a light.
Things get dark very quickly & you never know if you're about to walk off "the cliff" or not. By the time you've realized you've gone too far... you either have to fight & crawl your way back out or give up & just learn to survive in that darkness.
Sure. Except they can see the exit behind them.. but they'd have to walk uphill to get out. These people choose the easy route.
its not that simple for a lot of people@@davidfaustino4476
@@davidfaustino4476 uphill in a cave? But I thought in the analogy they’ve walked too far in to see the exit. I think you ruined the analogy
@@davidfaustino4476aye real shit no matter how you feel about addicted and drug users you don’t know those people. They human just like the rest of us and apparently just like you
What about that is easy? You have it easy. You're privileged enough not to suffer, but you have the audacity to say they choose the easy way out. I bet no one in your life wants to be near you, especially with how dumb and crazy you are 😂@davidfaustino4476
Brandon I am so happy you decided to continue your TH-cam career. You are THE most unique creator on here and I always find myself invested in your videos. Much love
I second this! Much love Brandon! Cold ass riding boi!
Never forget thë USS Liberty and the men who died on that day
when was he not going to continue it?
Nothing new or unique about white savior complex.
Unique ? Not at all. Great Donny ? Absolutely
I have struggled with mental illness and my mental health since I was a kid. Before I even knew what those terms were. After years of depression, anxiety, and even an attempt to take my life, I never thought I would be able to live without psych medications like opioids. I clung to them because it was the only thing that made my mind quiet, but it also made me a zombie. Microdosing has given me control of my mental health for the first time, and they essentially gave me my life back.
I’ve been researching on psychedelics and it’s benefits to individuals dealing with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD and from my findings, they really work and I’ve been eager to get some for a while but its been difficult to get my hands on them.
The Trips I've been having really helped me a lot. I’m now able to meditate and I finally feel in control of my emotions and my future and things that used to be mundane to me now seem incredible and full of nuance on top of that I'm way less driven by my ego and I have alot more empathy as well
I was having this constant, unbearable anxiety due to work stress. Not until I came across a very intelligent mycologist. He saved my life honestly
His name is *DR Adolf Petter*
@ohmakure4716
I feel the same way too. I put too much on my plate and it definitely affects my stress and anxiety levels. I am also glad to be a part of this community.
Brandon is the only youtuber i feel like really puts himself out there for who he is, and not an idealistic facade. Thanks for keeping it real.
arab >> brendan
The only one? Wow
@@bigben42 I mean specifically in this genre, and with his number of followers.
It's authentic, unbiased, entertaining, respectful and well paced
Nah sneako is a top G and very smart. He's the best and àn alpha. One day I'll be like Tate and sneako 😉
This video wqs filmed my Matt Hoffacker instagram.com/acticinematics?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== and Moustafa Daher: instagram.com/moustafadaher?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
I just wanna highlight how at 9:30 neither brandon nor the cameraman even thought for a single second about putting that person offscreen on camera. So respectful of their privacy in a dark moment of their lives when so many youtubers, and even more "professional" news or documentatary crews would've immediately had the instinct to "use the junkie for content".
FANTASTIC point and very important. Truly indicative of their genuine intent to help while eschewing that exploitation angle
As a recovered opiod addict i really appreciate you making this video. As well as how respectful you are about it all. Thanks brandon.
Keep it up man 🥊
My mom taught me how to cop in Kensington, we used together. She revived me once and two weeks later I failed in reviving her and she died in my arms. October 2016.. haven’t used heroin since.
Sorry you went through that lad you honour her memory through getting clean
man that's dark
As in the narcan didnt work or you were to high to notice she was oding ?
That’s fucked, good on you for getting clean though
@@perc3136 she was in another room and within a few minutes her heart had already stopped shortly after I found her. Beyond narcan at that point.. though I still tried.. only takes 4 mins without oxygen for brain death.
Mad respect for you Brandon. Not being a bystander and trying to get more people informed and potentially help someone in dire need. You're doing your brother proud man, without a doubt.
the analogy the dude used about swimming underwater for the gold was really something else
Such an obviously smart and caring dude, just going on patrols trying to save people. Human gem
Really though! I was looking for this comment before I posted it myself
Forreal, it was well said.
I'm an ex heroin addict from Baltimore. I got out before fentanyl hit. Couldn't imagine how bad it is now. Lost tons of friends. Prolly 12 or more. But yet Baltimore keep voting the same. Fucking rediculous. Been blue over 60 years. Lol at least try independent. Look at what the Dems have done to the place and last 3 mayors been locked up!
I am a former fentanyl addict and I used to spend time in those very places shown on camera in this video… it is absolutely surreal seeing how I used to not care about being in that environment and how bad it looks to me now. Please get help if you are an addict. You literally won’t regret it for a second and you will live a much much happier life. God bless everyone and please please be safe and get help. ❤️
Brandon. I lost a brother to fentanyl in 2018. Thank you for making this video, so many of us are survivors of this who lost family, friends, and community members we loved, as are you. Love and peace.
Maybe he shouldn’t have done drugs
@@Schinzo__ what reaction are you wanting with a comment like this? Pretty messed up honestly. God bless you.
@@Schinzo__ why tf would you comment shit like this
bless you
@@badmombai can't say I sympathize with you. Unlike your brother and others like him, only those who know how to use drugs will survive. Most of these stupid fucks don't even realize that LD50 for Fentanyl is 3 mg. I think you should start a campaign for legalizing drugs, it would definitely help with overdoses; but drug education is much more critical.
Dude... you are going to EXPLODE with this content. You are really coming to fruition as an incredible social journalist Brandon! 1 Million within the year for sure.
Awesome job bringing this to more light man. Even when Jesus walked he wasn't hanging around the rich and high class, he was in the slums helping the people and listening to their story. God bless you for this work Brandon.
Speaking as somebody from Baltimore that not too long ago was holed up in the motel six on North Avenue, strung out and selling myself, completely spiritually bankrupt. Thank you for doing this. Dipping in and out the alleys and bandos and shit can be real traumatic. I’m clean today thankfully, but man drug addiction fucking rocked my world.
Stay strong Sister, love you, you got this ❤
stay strong sister
Nick seems real passionate about helping the people stuck in the vicious cycle of addiction. It’s honestly great to see people still caring for the people who forgot to care for themselves.
You can tell Nick just has the most absolute biggest heart. Wishing blessings for you bro, keep helping those around you!
As an addict who is 4 years sober i can really appreciate all that guy does, great video
Never forget thë USS Liberty and the men who died on that day
fucking congrats man!
congrats brother you should be super proud of yourself every single day. keep up the good work fam, wishing you the best
I'm 6 years clean from heroin, what you get sober from if you don't mind me asking?
@@niceirishlad9466 I also got clean from heroin and meth.
You a real one Nick. I appreciate Brandon for touching on this topic. Blessed to be here today, addiction is hell on earth
I moved out of Baltimore recently after living in Pigtown for 5 years. The amount of people I would see doing the "corner zombie lean" when I first moved there was insane. It was already bad but things got way out of hand due to the pandemic. I would ride my bike through the city on the regs and I got to see the rapid decline with my own eyes. It's a city of sorrows and it's spreading through all the neighborhoods. Thank you for bring more attention to the pain within the city I once calles home.
Never forget thë USS Liberty and the men who died on that day
Nah son Bmore is a cancer and there’s no cure for it. It’s F’d up but that’s the reality. I won’t even give a mf a cigarette because they ain’t do nothing for it except beg their whole life. Any bum pulls a weapon on me they’re done I don’t play I grew up in this State and I’m done with it. It’s only Bmore that pisses me off
How safe is it to cycle through baltimore lol
@@Priest92safer than walking ig lol you dont step on needles
Bro Baltimore has been a dump since the 80s.
I love how this guy at 8:00 just states that he came out there because he's an addict and thought it would be easier out there. At least he's honest. Most of these people who are being interviewed (esp. in Phoenix) all have their story of how they ended up there, but you can always tell it's not true, or not the whole truth. They came because they are addicted and thought it would be easier out there.
Seeing an honest addict is rare because lying is a symptom of addiction. There's hope for you Mike Nagel (Dutch ancestors?) You have what most addicts lack: the ability to honestly evaluate your situation. That is the first and most important step towards recovery. I wish you the best.
I live about 25 minutes away from downtown Baltimore, nothing in this video is sugarcoated or hyperbolized. This IS the reality of the opioid crisis in Baltimore
I wish our government put more effort into real issues many Americans face. This is just sad.
As a recovery support specialist who works in treatment and someone with over half a decade clean I pray and hope all these people can find their way to the light of sobriety.
Superb stuff Brandon! You have so many assets that make you a great documentary maker and interviewer.
Between the respectful but incisive question, interesting topics for videos, allowing interviewees to speak freely and candidly and not ever seeming above the people and cultures you interact with.
Bravo, looking forward to future uploads 💪
Brandon is one of the most underrated and greatest TH-camrs still going, I love how he’s capable of making both fun and insightful content. This video was genuinely really educational yet entertaining and inspired me to research further.
I love the way your content has evolved over time. Using your on the ground approach to shine a light on real societal issues isn't something you see very much on TH-cam or anywhere in the media for that matter. Keep it up!
Nick is out here doing the work of a saint, it's so defeating to be in the circles trying and trying to help people and the help is always needed cause the dope will never stop coming. Truly Sisyphean and admirable, a strong spirit
You have a nafo pfp. Boomer racist
You caught me
Found Brandon through Ice and started watching his previous work. I feel like saying that he does a underrated job producing some quality and comedic content. He also seems to carry great empathy and has respectable morals. Was an easy subscription.
For such a somber topic, you really put a beautiful and hopeful message in there as well. You’re doing great work.
I was addicted to pain pills in 2006 from an accident at 18, turned into 7 yrs of hell, buried 17 ppl, found my best friends dad who committed suicide and a yr later my best friend OD and died. So I went on a rampage, 2013 went to a rehab in Detroit, a yr program completed came out with my chest puffed up. Long story short got into a relationship with this girl, who introduced me to heroin, that's a whole long story in itself, from homelessness, rehabs, jail, overdoses, I've seen it all and Jesus was the only one who pulled me outta that life, the demons and darkness that comes with that ain't nothing to play with, i wrecked everything and everyone around me, and Christ changed it. I'm 4 years clean, 2 yrs into God removed all the dreams, thoughts, all those fucked up thoughts, to where now I just wanna do the opposite and help those in this trap, you can never loose hope, if you want it bad enough you just gotta pull yourself up. Thanks Brandon for shedding light on what goes unseen
how did you get addicted?
Im proud of you dude, stay strong stay safe and have a great day
@@bimapringgohe got addicted by pain pills lol did u not read? Not tryna be an ass but it can literally just be one time and dat warm feeling u love, ur gonna do everything ur gonna want to chase it. Glad bro above got clean, im currently tryna recover from fent
Proud of you bro and im happy you found yo way to recovery ❤️
God bless you Aaron thank you for spreading a positive message. I’m proud of you for pulling it back together, I’m still struggling myself
Nick, you were the inspiration I needed today. My whole family recently moved to Wyoming to escape a rough part of California. You reminded me why staying was the right choice. This is my home. With mixed ancestry I have no homeland but here. My great grandfathers built the homes in this neighborhood, my grandfather installed the powerlines and my parents were married at the local park. This is my home and these are my people and I refuse to give up on them no matter how broken they may seem. Its hard. Its REAL hard maintaining the resolve to keep getting out there and talking to people on the streets when so many people are complete dirtbags but you remind me to stay strong. This is the type of person Jesus AND Krishna wanted us to be. This is true love and devotion. The kind of Bhakti I aspire to have.
Another awesome job, Brandon. Learned about Tommy G through your older content and continued to be a fan of his work as well. Thank you for putting so much love into your work!
Im a recovering addict myself. And that dude is doin the Lords work. Helpin those ppl like that... i was lucky enough to see the light
God bless the people trying to help these folks. I pray to God things get better in Baltimore
Dude, Nick is so eloquent. I write as a hobby and his charisma is inspirational.
Supposedly back in the day needle exchanges would give you a new needle for every used needle you brought in that they would properly dispose of. I genuinely think this approach shouldn’t have been abandoned
yeah i mean thats a no-brainer. the human race has just gotten collectively lazy
Thats how its done at the needle exchange in denver still.
I’m glad to say in august I’ll be 3 years clean off of opioids after 10 plus years of addiction and the only thing I regret is not doing it sooner, best decision I ever made and I never want to go back to that life. Anybody out there struggling it’s not too late I got my second chance at life at 26, you can do it it’s not as hard as your mind is telling you, it hurts physically but it’s a mental thing too you just gotta persevere and know that life can be better than where you are now, I’ve been there living in my car hungry cus I spent all my money on drugs, that’s no way to live
But another great video by ole buckethead, love to see it
❤
This dude nick - we need more people like you. Thanks for what you do man.
It reaches out and touches many families in surrounding communities as well.
Northern va has been hit hard too.
As far as the works/rigs/needles... A lot of addicts also just go to a pharmacy and request insulin syringes, which you can but with out showing a script for insulin.
Appreciate yall taking the time to shed light on a problem and area that reached out and touched me a state away.
Thank you for making this, Brandon. Longtime fan and used to use H all the time. Been about 7 years since. You're doing really informative, real, and entertaining videos. Thank you and hope you're doing well.
Nick is a legend. Keep doing what you're doing, much respect.
Brandon, you are a hero man. What you do is more important than you’ll ever know. Keep it going brother, much love.
I don't think hero is the right way to describe it, and maybe he would agree.
At the end of the day he's trying to generate views and subs for TH-cam, and his career.
There's nothing wrong with that at all, and I say don't ever hate a man for making a dollar.
But, to call it heroic I think is greatly misplaced.
It's rough that we live in a society where simply going to a bad place and talking to people down on their luck at your own benefit is called heroic.
Those firefighters that died trying to stop a fire from spreading, that's far more heroic.
They're paid to do that as well.
But if you want to find a hero look at the people volunteering time in churches & outreaches.
Even the dude with the non-profit/go-fund-me, he MIGHT be heroic. Often-times those people are actually just benefiting off an industry. I live in Maryland, and my taxes are being used to give free things to people who don't work and are addicted. So I have no choice in that, but we've done that for years, and we're just getting more people on the streets addicted.
@@drownthepoorSo true.
3 firefighters lost their lives putting out an absolute dump for the sake of the neighbourhood.
@@EE-uj6tw I'm not sure if you're joking or not, but the job doesn't come with choices in which fires to put out.
If there is a fire burning they put it out regardless of where it's happening.
You're doing great work with all your content man. Its very clearly getting better and better and it's really awesome to see you succeeding at your calling in this life.
I wanna say, I really appreciate the direction your channel is going. I like the funny and insane antics here and there, yet this sort of content is phenomenal.
Please keep it up Brandon. Youre doing good work
As a recovering heroin addict. Im thankful for every day that im still alive and still sober.
6 years July 10th!
Powerful work bro. We appreciate you 💪💕
Bro that Nick dude is an Angel, thats the only thing that describes people like him. Thanks for this video Brandon you and Tommy G and Nick did a hell of a job showing people whats happening out here.
This was great Brandon. Excellent job helping spread awareness!
the analogy 5 mins in is really good. great video.
That shit hit me hard
I love the vibe in this video bro, I'm coming up on a year clean and seeing the work bro is out there putting in day in and day out made me get goosebumps, got nothing but love for stuff like this, donated as much as I could to the go fund me,.. motivation bro motivation.... We do recover 💪💪
This was one of the most important videos to be made at this moment in time, thank you Brandon.
Hey man thanks for this. I’m by no means a kid. I’ve got kids almost as old as Brandon. Yet it took Nick’s “Nirvana” speech to make me really start thinking. I’m fairly successful in life too. Yet I dabble with my vices. My son is my Nirvana. My whole family really but my 7yo son needs me the most!!!
You are a beautiful reporter. I have followed you for years and to see you grow is truly beautiful. I hope you achieve much much more as you deserve it.
How do you not have millions of subscribers already? Seriously. You make some of the best content on this hellsite.
R Long representin! FR tho, coming up in Baltimore and going thru it - a lot of people here can't even imagine a life outside the avenue. Before the Peanut king got this thing started, it was the corner bar that used to be in every neighborhood. People's minds can be real small in Baltimore, you can do it all on the block - or at least that's the way we came up. I have been sober and a functioning member of society and it still gets me sometimes. It starts with how we raise our kids and education.
10/10 video. Brandon always coming with the real shit. Dude has a heart of gold. Keep it up.
Having lived the life of an addict this hits home that much more.. RIP all my ppl and everyone out there still ripping and running..
Man fr
This is real journalism. Amazing work as always.
lived this life for 15+ years, very glad to say im 3+ years clean but im one bad day away from the streets again n thats something u learn to live with n avoid at all costs. if ur in the struggle, i love you. genuinely
I wanted to say to you Brandon that i found your channel after hearing you on Mutahar, Nux and Oompa's podcast and i gotta say you are doing a lot of stuff here not many people would even want to do. Not the mainstream media even wants to do some of the you're doing shining a light on the crises plaguing this country
That guys line about trying to swim with gold was the best analogy for heroin I'v ever heard
And 90 percent of this shit started with pharmaceutical company's and doctors!
Thanks for shedding light on this Brandon
Keep up the good work, Brandon. I'm proud of you.
Thanks for doing this.
Sober and productive individual for 5 years now.
Doctors told my family I wouldn’t make it past 22.
Currently 36 and the healthiest I’ve ever been. Most people that know me would have no idea about my past either. Unfortunately my twin brother was not so lucky.
Not being sober and in a position where I couldn’t help him in time was the catalyst for my transformation.
Never again will I fail to be available to anyone I love .
Addiction is a war of attrition. Stay alive long enough to experience the moment that you genuinely want out and to operate differently.
Worded very well brother we have similar stories I left mine in the comments as well keep going buddy !!!!
Man I've never heard a doctor say those words even when I've had family shooting dope at 12 just saying that parts bs and I don't know why so many people have the need to say so it's just intention seeking you can come out say how bad it was for you but that's just bs mam
@@thesicksense6269
Yes, because the world is only as big as your experience in it...
@@thesicksense6269room temp IQ + no empathy
We send billions to Ukraine.. while our very own streets and people need the help. Sad.
Love you dude. That core love you share with/have for other people really shines through in this video. If you're watching this as a first time viewer, and are worried about "is this man authentic in what he says/mean" please go back and watch all he's overcome himself. One cold ass rider.
Never expected this collab. Even before watching it I can tell this will be great. Thanks for making this video, not enough people are talking about the opioid epidemic!
what, Brandon and Tommy? they collab constantly lol
@@spimblestbf they collabed before either of them really had any success here
I’m from Baltimore, I lived in several areas in the city. Me and my wife came up rough. I was living that life. I got clean after 10 years and a lot of failed attempts and a lot of dead friends and support from my family and I just wanted to put it out there, no matter how many times we fail we must keep trying… it only takes one win
What andrew Callaghan couldve been. Absolutely amazing content 👌 👏
hell be back
@@sirisrex7542 lmfao nah
@sirisrex7542 he was shit with or without the 'rape allegation'. He was an establishment tool who sold his soul.
Naw he doesn't get into the nitty gritty like Brandon does. He just goes to music festivals, rallies, and parties
Brandon you are an amazing human being! Your one hell of a REAL journalist! Keep it up we are watching and sharing.
My father left Philly (which is already fvcked) for the drugs in Baltimore because that city attracts lost souls for some reason. I see him every few years or so but it’s always a toss up as to whether or not he’s alive. He gives me the “I’m so sorry for xyz” spiel still circumventing accountability but i told him “i don’t hold nothing against you” no sense in groveling to your estranged son. Baltimore is a hell state and my dad’s a dead man walking as long as he frequents those abandoned buildings.
I appreciate you for covering this scene Brandon! I got my sister to watch your videos and she was a big fan of you. We actually always watch your videos together and shit. Although she actually just overdosed on a laced perc and died in February at 26 years old.
Sorry to hear that brother. Hope you're taking care of yourself.
Ah man
Sorry man, my condolences.
Love you brandon, thanks for shining a bright light on a topic not many people want to accept and view in society but its a major point. Keep up the good work boss.
Commenting and liking cause I know TH-cam is gonna suppress this one
Suppress my
I was homeless in west baltimore for a year in 2015. Been clean since 2016 and have never looked back. Thankful i got out when i did ❤❤
Brandon is one of the few TH-camrs that I feel isn’t a soulless cyborg churning out garbage. Big ups for giving these people a voice
I’ve been drinking and smoking none stop for years I’m 26 I’m sad and I feel as though I know why. Thank you Brandon for sharing this video. To everyone out there, there’s light at the end of the tunnel. I love you and you can change xoxo 😘
Drinking and smoking can be bad in excess, but it is always preferable over the things these people are taking.
This is real, true journalism! Actual quality content worth watching. Keep up the amazing work, and stay safe out there!
God have mercy.
Everyone wants the gvernment to fix a problem that is all about spiritual malaise. You have to hold people accountable for their actions. We haven't been doing that and look at the result. "Harm Reduction" so you can continue harming yourself is laughable.
I'm in my early 40s, and grew up in SW/S Baltimore, and from what I remember it's always been this way. I moved out of state in 02, and I'd never move back. I have a family member who will be 8 years clean next month, so congrats to them!
I watched Tommy G's vid, which was impactful, but the fact you unblurred so much it made it much more impactful. Nick is doing some tough work in those streets, good move involving him and thank you for sharing this!
LORD touch these people and bless the guys that went out to the streets. 🙏🙏🙏
brandon & friends out here doin the lord’s work. this is a topic we never need to stop talking about it. it’s getting worse by the minute. too many people, young & old, are dying.
Recovering addict here. Withdrew on my own. There are ways to do it. I was on fent/H, and it wasn't easy, but the vitamins/cannabis I used took care of the vomiting and diarrhea. It made my withdrawal a hard, hard 2-3, on a scale of 1-10. If you want it bad enough, you can do it. Im so grateful to wake up well every day and not need to go to any methadone clinic or take subs. I hope somebody gets the will to quit after seeing this.
Truly touching. Big up big Brandon Buckingham!
Nick came up to me n my brother in SW Baltimore. "Hey homeboy are you interested in inpatient treatment? Next day he was out front my home in a scan to take me to gardenzia treatment center. Me n my brother both walked out not even 24 hours later. But eventually we both got it together now we're both working have wives and kids living in the county. This man really does this everyday and good on him.
As someone that finally got help after 14+ jail trips 8 + rehabs all before 23. I’m 30 now. Making that first choice to get help was so hard because I would always worry about the “when I get out” aspect. DONT WORRY ABOUT THAT. Get clean first then everything else will fall in place and just NEVER pick up again no matter WHAT.
the conversation you had with that couple around 14:00 was so insightful. really hope that girl gets the help she needs, because she seems like a very bright soul
This was a very good and informative video. And, as a former morphine addict I must say that Nicks `gold under the water` analogy was REALLY good! You swim to the bottom in hopes of bettering things a little bit, then you find the `gold` and suddenly the greed (addiction) takes to hard of a hold and you stay stuck at the bottom until you run out of oxygen. Seriously, its one of the best description of addiction I have heard! And, another thought, maybe building up a real social security net and healthcare for all is an idea worth exploring for USA too? Today it seems like its only, I call them Angels, like Nick and people like him that try and wants to help. Personally I think the state (not in a forcefull way) needs to be more invested in making its peoples life better. And I mean All its people. Free healthcare for all isnt the same as going commie!
Brandon you are the most real person on the platform right now. Such beautiful work you’re doing man. If you’re ever in Tulsa I want to get you and your crew drinks
My hat is off to nick man. He seems like a really genuine dude that wants to help. I hope that young couple yall talked to actually get the help they need. They seem like good people. Just like a lot of other addicts.
Kids leave drugs alone
Drugs are glorified through the mainstream media and we wonder why kids are doing the hard drugs these days.