Very thankful to have this man as my grandfather. Thank you Mark for giving him a platform to tell his experiences. I have heard these type of stories for most of my life, and I’m so happy that others will be able to enjoy them now.
He is indeed an incredible human being. I could literally spend hours listening to Ray. I have family that have have lived/live long lives. They are living encyclopedias. I am so glad you realize what a treasure your grandfather is. I hope we hear from Ray again. I could tell the pain and disgust he felt about the guards whipping inmates. I feel the same way. He made his job a very good and positive career. He could see things objectively. His insights into mental illness was prolific.
Does your grandfather have dupuytrens contracture ( vikings disease)? Many of my relatives on my mom's side of the family have it. It is typically in those of Scandinavian heritage.
Blessed with the best father-in-law ever! He has a whole lot of stories. If you ever come to Brushy Mountain Prison for a tour, you just might get lucky and see him. He visits often. We love him so much. ❤
I’m curious what it was like to be the son of this man. He had to be a different type of father than most. I would think he would be strict to keep his children from going to places like this. To see the horrors he’s seen.
Wish Mark could have met a gentleman who lives nearby who was a life criminal, inmate and later employee at Brushy and author of a great book! You all would love his story!
@Allan What on earth are you talking about CIA and Mark? And why are Mark keeping anyone high on drugs? Are YOU sure you're sober because what you said makes no sense whatsoever. Please elaborate!
I agree. I loved the one he did a while ago and the one a few days ago. But this gentleman unfortunately had an accent which was very difficult for me as a foreigner to understand. I love listening to older people who have worked in prison and LE, but also mental health care and rehabilitation.
My 2 sons and I toured this penitentiary a week ago. One of our tour guides was an old guard and the other was an old inmate. It was quite an experience! They did not hold back on their stories. The ex inmate was very open with how he got in there and how he hopes to reach at least help one person to make a smart choice and change a life.
Man I just can't get enough of these episodes!!!! Not gonna lie, I find this (far more enjoyable and entertaining) than the whole Rebecca thing that went on for so long and having to watch Mark continually taken advantage of!! This content is the stuff I find to be the very greatest!!!!❤👏👏👍💯
Have you seen the one where the guy goes and lives with the street kids in LA or something. It's a must watch for real! It's called American Street Kid and it's amazing seriously moving.
I agree completely, soo many people imply that Mark has some kind of responsibility to help everyone. He’s a journalist not a councilor or charity. ❤❤❤
Do you really believe he didnt abuse POC in his custody? Just listen to his voice. And read between the lines. Of course he presents himself as an angel. Scum.
I am too... he's SO interesting, smart (and somewhat funny considering the topic!) but fascinating, entertaining and interesting interview! So glad to hear his stories! Especially about James Earl Ray being such an escape artist! I can't imagine working there, let alone how long and survive. He's tough as nails.
Knowing right from wrong is what makes this man so likable. It's quite simple, but nowadays people make it so difficult. They twist words and go at things from all different angles, but this gentleman just says it as it should be. It's either right, or it's not. Great interview. Not all the stories were powerful, but they showed how people thought and you could tell the prisoners he cared about and those he didn't when he spoke of them. You could tell who he respected and who he didn't, both coworkers and inmates.
I agree. Only a person raised in those times, like myself, can understand the concept of right and wrong without being poisoned by the political brainwashing that has taken place on young peoples minds. I feel like a alien on a different planet in today's world.
These prison workers are so soft spoken and mild mannered and yet still have seen some of the most vile depraved things. They work in the heart of the beast and maintain a level of professionalism unmatched. Great talk Ray! I enjoyed that! Lot of wisdom!
You on here, but take my word l from experience. 99 percent of guards are human scum. They go out of their way to treat you like shit. They will purposely deprive you of what you are obligated to have. I mean shit as simple as toliet paper. They straight abuse their power and convicts. I have had a guard for no reason go in my cell and flush all my stamps and envelops and throw my family pic in toliet. Plus toke my coat and keep in mind it was dead winter. And there is no heat or ac in most prisons
Most people that I hear run on from story to story are annoying. I didn't want this man to stop. It is not just the stories but the manner of storytelling as well. What a great guest Mark! Thank you Ray!
I would love to hear more older people interviews. They have the best stories. On another note He sounds so much like my grandfather. I hope his children and grandchildren appreciate having this GREAT man as their father/grandfather.
Fellers like this are a wealth of information on the intricacies of living a long and successful life. He’s lived through so much. People like this are so honorable in our society - honest as the day is long.
I enjoyed beyond expectations all this guards stories and his voice and vocabulary was captivating! I hope Ray will certainly write the book he spoke of writing in this interview and I would definitely be one of millions who would buy it .
Mark ... I am your biggest fan and have been following you for a while! Imagine this morning finding out you were at Brushy, 30 minutes from my home! What a treat to have had the chance to meet you! Keep up the great work and hope you enjoyed your time in East Tennessee. FYI .. worked in court system my entire life and Ray shot King in Memphis, TN. Loved these stories this gentleman shared! Brought back many memories of the legal system, the murder trials and antics and F Lee Bailey showing up in our small county for a murder trial! Thank you for all you do!
I know what you mean I’m from Mississippi but have lived in Wisconsin for a very long time so I know how comforting that can be sounds like home and comfort. ❤
I find it amazing, that almost all of these interviews, not one person is confused or has a hard time remembering events or order of events. Just boom boom boom
.....that’s not what’s happening. They are likely slightly nervous being filmed, and often people can “run their mouth” more easily when nervous, kinda just talking away without really giving lots of consideration to what they are saying And the stories come out how they remember them / their brain interprets the events currently. This does not mean they are recalling the events perfectly in detail to what actually occurred. Many of the stories are only part truths, and that goes for any situation. Our brain fills in part of our memories with what we ‘think’ happened, but in reality things often occurred much differently than we recall
@@AlanKelly-nm9lxwow. I’ve been in a lot of hospitals and rehabs, and you talk like a perfect example of a hurt person. I’m sorry for what’s happened to you. This isn’t a “dunk” or a smart ass remark. But obviously there’s an issue. I don’t known Mark, I just watch the interviews for the people getting interviewed, but you don’t know him either. Healthy people don’t make assumptions that bad as easily as that, and try to do it in a darkly humorous kind of way. You don’t seem to be wanting to “warn” people, it looks more like you’re trying to get people’s attention. If it’s loneliness I get it. But you won’t cure that online. And better help sounds kind of weird to me too. But whatever it is, I hope you find what you’re looking for to live happily.
@@AlanKelly-nm9lx ok I got you. Just please take some time to think about how you’re acting. I’m being serious, even if you’re not. I really do hope you have happiness in your life. Have a good weekend.
Phenomenal interview! Thank you Ray for your years of service! Thank you Mark for providing an educational, informative, intriguing interview! Incredible!
20 years a prison guard in a level 4 institution, and these stories all sound like mine. The locations and times may be different but the circumstances remain the same. The fact that this man has lived well into his retirement years is amazing. We usually don't live long after retirement.
Please do a part 2 with Mr Ray! A good prison/jail officer makes all the difference to the inmates. I know because I was one. People like Ray probably have no idea the impact they've made on people. In a place where you're stripped of everything it's really nice when the guards treat you like somebody. Give respect get respect. God bless you Mr Ray. Thanks for this one Mark 👍
Thank you Mark, for the balance! I like these stories…I am from WV but migrated to NC in my 20’s. After a visit with family (I do every summer) with my grandsons I decided to make a trip thru the middle of WV. I took the gboys to Moundsville State Penitentiary which shut down in 1995. One of the guards that use to work there gave us the tour…best deterrent for preteens they really liked it. Next trip was Weston Insane Asylum then New River Gorge Bridge. Best trip so far 😎👍🏼
I need to take my sons to see the inside of a prison. I did 3 short prison sentences, and they don't know that yet because I don't want them thinking it's OK.
Nice backdrop change, gives us something to look at... keep it up Mark, some of these stories have changed my life in small ways and also ways that it took me a while to realize. I was a dancer for on/off 10yrs and did pain pills for 12 yrs, my first BF hung himself when I was 16.... I can relate in many ways to these people. Cassandra will always be my favorite though. RIP... 🖤🖤🖤
Hi Mark....am really Enjoying these Interviews...Love the background of the Prison Bars.....Artwork of Lifestories...... Thankyou for all your hardwork it changes lives!!!!!
Thank for this interview. Love listening to him talk, sounds just like my papaw. A few videos back during the book auction you mentioned that there were developments after the confrention with the Whitakers. Will you be following up with us soon on what has happened with them? Thanks Mark ❤
Mark I TOTALLY enjoyed this interview. I am an avid listener. It’s one of my strong points. He was great in telling his stories. I was mesmerized the entire time. It flew by. Thank you.
I have enjoyed watching, listening to Ray. He seems like a good man, and unfortunately, he’s a rare breed, nowadays. I bet his family has a lot of respect for him, and many great memories of his stories of his life. He has a great memory and is a good storyteller.
Loved the interview . His story at the end of the inmate and his son hugging and crying broke my heart . A lot of those inmates have amazing hearts they just made bad choices at one point in their life .
Dabailey 🤔. Good point I have enjoyed many of this channel’s stories but. The are Heavy on extreme drug use alcoholism and severe mental issues. This gentleman was a breath of fresh air. 🌎💪🏽🚀. Just the facts heartbreaking- in life -
Wow, this man is amazing. I am so glad he is still here with us. And can share wisdom and knowledge with us. He is a true man. He is a true fighter. He is a good man. I can see it in his eyes.
These Tennessee prison guys have a special kind of character. They’re fair, honest, and engaging because I could listen to him tell his stories for hours.
Lol honest, fair you are joking. I guess you have never been to prison before.if so you would know most guards aren't fair or honest, but mostly crooked scum bags
These recent videos are really fantastic, just waiting for mark to stumble on the untapped resource of extended care facilities, so many stories that deserve to be heard
Mr. Laita, thank you for another outstanding interview. At the end of it, I feel the same way I felt at the end of watching The Shawshank Redemption. I love having your platform available when ‘television’ sucks. The ultimate reality streamed on demand. I remember the old days of looking at TV Guide. Now, I just check to see if you have a new uploaded interview. Educational and inspiring, & certainly not a waste of time. And of course, thank you to all of your guests & their stories.
What a great interview. I was the food service manager at BMP for a short time in 1989 and I can attest to what this gentleman is saying. I worked at three different facilities during my tenure with the TDOC and Brushy Mountain was unlike any other prison in the state of Tennessee.
Well I’m sorry but I’m not just going to take your word for it. Plz provide proof of years you were employed or ill just have to dismiss this as unproven information
Mark, this is your calling. I love hearing the wisdom of our people. Your ability to share this with us is a true study in humanity. It is difficult, for you, as you have such a wonderful empathic heart. Guard that and do not take on a hundred years of disfunction to make your heart troubled. Bless you as I listen to this wonderful wise man!
My Nana is from TN and her dad, my Great-Grandfather, looked and sounds exactly like this man. So confronting to hear him talk. The portrait you took of him Mark is beautiful. ❤
I’ll tell you what, sponsors and commercials in the middle of videos are sooo disingenuous and annoying but the commercial of Better Help was so good! It was so genuine and it fit right into the video. He was able to relate very well and it just sounded authentic.
Very thankful to have this man as my grandfather. Thank you Mark for giving him a platform to tell his experiences. I have heard these type of stories for most of my life, and I’m so happy that others will be able to enjoy them now.
Tell us about him?
He is indeed an incredible human being. I could literally spend hours listening to Ray. I have family that have have lived/live long lives. They are living encyclopedias. I am so glad you realize what a treasure your grandfather is. I hope we hear from Ray again. I could tell the pain and disgust he felt about the guards whipping inmates. I feel the same way. He made his job a very good and positive career. He could see things objectively. His insights into mental illness was prolific.
Does your grandfather have dupuytrens contracture ( vikings disease)? Many of my relatives on my mom's side of the family have it. It is typically in those of Scandinavian heritage.
Super cool
By his comment on James earl Ray, is it fair to say he was a racist
Blessed with the best father-in-law ever! He has a whole lot of stories. If you ever come to Brushy Mountain Prison for a tour, you just might get lucky and see him. He visits often. We love him so much. ❤
What a treasure of a man to have in your family!
My daddy was raised in Deer Lodge in the 30’s and 40’s. Heard stories. ❤
I hope he reads these comments ❤
I’m curious what it was like to be the son of this man. He had to be a different type of father than most. I would think he would be strict to keep his children from going to places like this. To see the horrors he’s seen.
@@barbarap8580 He has heard about some of them!
These jail background videos are Solid Gold. These older experienced gentlemen have the greatest stories i could listen for hours 🙌
Wish Mark could have met a gentleman who lives nearby who was a life criminal, inmate and later employee at Brushy and author of a great book! You all would love his story!
Right!?!
@Allan
What on earth are you talking about CIA and Mark?
And why are Mark keeping anyone high on drugs?
Are YOU sure you're sober because what you said makes no sense whatsoever.
Please elaborate!
I agree.
I loved the one he did a while ago and the one a few days ago.
But this gentleman unfortunately had an accent which was very difficult for me as a foreigner to understand.
I love listening to older people who have worked in prison and LE, but also mental health care and rehabilitation.
@@leneo1731you can turn on captions. 😊
Southern people are good story tellers…I could listen to them for hours …Love it!
Venmo me. I’ll read you books for $50 an hour.
Most certainly. Fantastic
I’m Irish and this accent is just so nice to listen to he’s a fantastic story teller
Please, if you haven’t heard that southern draw, you need to get out more
My 2 sons and I toured this penitentiary a week ago. One of our tour guides was an old guard and the other was an old inmate. It was quite an experience! They did not hold back on their stories. The ex inmate was very open with how he got in there and how he hopes to reach at least help one person to make a smart choice and change a life.
I love redemption ❤
@@AlanKelly-nm9lx lol hows marke contribute to ppl buyin the CIAs drugs.
You got the right idea but you're barkin up the wrong tree
Good parent. Respect.
@@AlanKelly-nm9lxis that you Rebecca??!! 😂😂
&&hĥĝ%$
"Once you start cussin, you stop discussin." Love it!
I know! I need to remember that one, it's a gem!
💯
oh you can artfully weave it in. LOL
@@AlanKelly-nm9lx get a job, you weirdo.
You can learn a lot from listening to people talk
Man I just can't get enough of these episodes!!!! Not gonna lie, I find this (far more enjoyable and entertaining) than the whole Rebecca thing that went on for so long and having to watch Mark continually taken advantage of!! This content is the stuff I find to be the very greatest!!!!❤👏👏👍💯
Completely agree 👍💯
Yeah, enough of the addicts, criminals, and deviants...it is much better listening to people that make a positive difference in the world!
Have you seen the one where the guy goes and lives with the street kids in LA or something. It's a must watch for real! It's called American Street Kid and it's amazing seriously moving.
💯 agree!
I agree completely, soo many people imply that Mark has some kind of responsibility to help everyone. He’s a journalist not a councilor or charity. ❤❤❤
I’m from a town about 45 minutes from here. I’ve been living overseas for over 20 years. It’s so nice to hear him speak. He makes me feel at home.
Sadly, Southern accents are becoming a thing of the past.
@@AlanKelly-nm9lx CIA Mark? Did I miss something?
Agree! He sounds like my dad. We are from SE Tenn. I've been overseas for 16 years now. Can't listen to this interview without tears.
Love this accent
Glad you made it back safely!
I’m 15 minutes into this and I am on the edge of my chair. This guy is priceless.
Do you really believe he didnt abuse POC in his custody? Just listen to his voice. And read between the lines. Of course he presents himself as an angel. Scum.
I am too... he's SO interesting, smart (and somewhat funny considering the topic!) but fascinating, entertaining and interesting interview! So glad to hear his stories! Especially about James Earl Ray being such an escape artist! I can't imagine working there, let alone how long and survive. He's tough as nails.
@@AlanKelly-nm9lx@ Hello 👋🏾🫡🫶🏾❤️🙏🏽🇨🇦Toronto Canada 🇨🇦
plenty more screws were he came from i can assure u that love.
Yes, prison stories makes great Contin. Anything crime related is great to.
This guy is sharp as a tack. Very engaging. You could probably get hours and hours of content from him. I'd listen to all of them.
I agree
Me too! Very interesting stories! I hope Mark brings him back
Me too
Uh huh 😊
Ray write a book! Do us all a favor and share your precious stories!
He has 2 chapters about Brushy in Nature of the Beast written by David Mills
Knowing right from wrong is what makes this man so likable. It's quite simple, but nowadays people make it so difficult. They twist words and go at things from all different angles, but this gentleman just says it as it should be. It's either right, or it's not. Great interview. Not all the stories were powerful, but they showed how people thought and you could tell the prisoners he cared about and those he didn't when he spoke of them. You could tell who he respected and who he didn't, both coworkers and inmates.
I absolutely agree
I agree. Only a person raised in those times, like myself, can understand the concept of right and wrong without being poisoned by the political brainwashing that has taken place on young peoples minds. I feel like a alien on a different planet in today's world.
These prison workers are so soft spoken and mild mannered and yet still have seen some of the most vile depraved things. They work in the heart of the beast and maintain a level of professionalism unmatched.
Great talk Ray! I enjoyed that! Lot of wisdom!
And a good amount of prison guards also commit some of those vile and depraved acts within the prison walls.
@@rumpelstiltskin9729i agree 4skin
They do some wild and some depraved things too . Bet you never been to prison .
You on here, but take my word l from experience. 99 percent of guards are human scum. They go out of their way to treat you like shit. They will purposely deprive you of what you are obligated to have. I mean shit as simple as toliet paper. They straight abuse their power and convicts. I have had a guard for no reason go in my cell and flush all my stamps and envelops and throw my family pic in toliet. Plus toke my coat and keep in mind it was dead winter. And there is no heat or ac in most prisons
@@AlanKelly-nm9lx are you a bot
Most people that I hear run on from story to story are annoying. I didn't want this man to stop. It is not just the stories but the manner of storytelling as well. What a great guest Mark! Thank you Ray!
I would love to hear more older people interviews.
They have the best stories.
On another note
He sounds so much like my grandfather.
I hope his children and grandchildren appreciate having this GREAT man as their father/grandfather.
We are very thankful for him
We are very blessed!
I'd like to see a part 2 with Ray.
YES PLEASE!!!
Me too
You guys want his only fans? 😂
😅@@Lee-qd1lz
Fellers like this are a wealth of information on the intricacies of living a long and successful life. He’s lived through so much. People like this are so honorable in our society - honest as the day is long.
Absolutely
No question about it
"Ray, what's most important lesson you've learned after all your years here?" . . .
"Mind your own Business."
Genius.
Selfish mentality. The type of folk who standby & do nothing as injustices are going on around them.
@@LordOfThePancakestry and save the world then you talk good what do you do?
I’m so glad you’re getting ole timers like Rays stories.
💯 ❤
Yes
This man is special. They really don’t make guys like this no more. I could listen to him all day.
Please for the love of God bring Ray back. We need to hear more, Mark.
I enjoyed beyond expectations all this guards stories and his voice and vocabulary was captivating! I hope Ray will certainly write the book he spoke of writing in this interview and I would definitely be one of millions who would buy it .
I could listen to Ray talk for a week straight.
Same..
Same!
Hope Mark does a followup
@@AlanKelly-nm9lxyou're in csis?
Me to !! That southern accent and politeness is timeless!!!
I want another interview with Ray ! He’s got so much “down home” wisdom, it takes my breath away!
Mark ... I am your biggest fan and have been following you for a while! Imagine this morning finding out you were at Brushy, 30 minutes from my home! What a treat to have had the chance to meet you! Keep up the great work and hope you enjoyed your time in East Tennessee. FYI .. worked in court system my entire life and Ray shot King in Memphis, TN. Loved these stories this gentleman shared! Brought back many memories of the legal system, the murder trials and antics and F Lee Bailey showing up in our small county for a murder trial! Thank you for all you do!
Nicely done! Mark will love your comment, or at least I do!
@@revvyhevvySame
@@keeper6458..thank you!!?
@@revvyhevvythank you!!!
Yes- I live close also! Would have loved to know Mark was in Tn!!! I’ve been to Brushy to tour and I also work in corrections!! Loved this!
"Once you start cussin' you stop discussin"...its little colloquial gems like this is why I love this channel and why this man is a treasure.
Love the backdrop change
Kinda gritty for the interview right bc it matches the interview
Me too!
imsure they are actually in the prison you can hear it echoing ???
@@debbie2490lol gimme a break 😂
That’s actually Brushy Mountian Prison in the background, that’s on the first floor.
This is fabulous Mark. What a great interview.
This man touches my Southern roots and makes me proud.
Don't you love it ? I just think of my Charlestonian grandmother and great grandmother ❤
Alan, please get back on your meds for THE LOVE OF GOD.
Love the Southern drawl
This is definitely one of your best interviews.
He has the same accent as my grandfather, so nice to hear a voice like that again.
Needs sub titles, couldn't understand 1/2 of what he was saying
@@thebob3712 You can turn them on yourself as an options.
I know what you mean I’m from Mississippi but have lived in Wisconsin for a very long time so I know how comforting that can be sounds like home and comfort. ❤
@@thebob3712 You need your ears checked, then. He sounds pretty clear to me.
I can listen to this type of voice and that drawl all day its amazing
The wisdom and kindness of this streetwise OG is breathtaking.
I find it amazing, that almost all of these interviews, not one person is confused or has a hard time remembering events or order of events. Just boom boom boom
.....that’s not what’s happening. They are likely slightly nervous being filmed, and often people can “run their mouth” more easily when nervous, kinda just talking away without really giving lots of consideration to what they are saying
And the stories come out how they remember them / their brain interprets the events currently. This does not mean they are recalling the events perfectly in detail to what actually occurred. Many of the stories are only part truths, and that goes for any situation. Our brain fills in part of our memories with what we ‘think’ happened, but in reality things often occurred much differently than we recall
@AlanKelly-nm9lx
You've made this comment way too much, stop.
@@AlanKelly-nm9lxwow. I’ve been in a lot of hospitals and rehabs, and you talk like a perfect example of a hurt person. I’m sorry for what’s happened to you. This isn’t a “dunk” or a smart ass remark. But obviously there’s an issue. I don’t known Mark, I just watch the interviews for the people getting interviewed, but you don’t know him either. Healthy people don’t make assumptions that bad as easily as that, and try to do it in a darkly humorous kind of way. You don’t seem to be wanting to “warn” people, it looks more like you’re trying to get people’s attention. If it’s loneliness I get it. But you won’t cure that online. And better help sounds kind of weird to me too. But whatever it is, I hope you find what you’re looking for to live happily.
@@AlanKelly-nm9lx ok I got you. Just please take some time to think about how you’re acting. I’m being serious, even if you’re not. I really do hope you have happiness in your life. Have a good weekend.
@@wesleyAlan9179 Report it as spam. Help me out! Just click on the 3 dots at the end of the offending comment and follow the brief instructions.
I miss my papa listening to this. Thank you Mark. This was such a down to earth interview
@@AlanKelly-nm9lxhaha you’re mentally ill
Phenomenal interview! Thank you Ray for your years of service! Thank you Mark for providing an educational, informative, intriguing interview! Incredible!
Ray is a national treasure. The best stories come from these older generations. They lived life!
I like the Prison Guard stories. Keep doing them, please. The stories are very interesting.
Love these guard and warden stories. Real stories, heart wrenching, and compassion. No self pity or blaming anyone. Real life
20 years a prison guard in a level 4 institution, and these stories all sound like mine. The locations and times may be different but the circumstances remain the same. The fact that this man has lived well into his retirement years is amazing. We usually don't live long after retirement.
Please do a part 2 with Mr Ray! A good prison/jail officer makes all the difference to the inmates. I know because I was one. People like Ray probably have no idea the impact they've made on people. In a place where you're stripped of everything it's really nice when the guards treat you like somebody. Give respect get respect. God bless you Mr Ray. Thanks for this one Mark 👍
Great interview! Many thanks to you Ray for your service! I could listen to you talk all day !
This is the very best interview you've ever done !! Interesting, engaging and unforgettable!! Kudos Marc !!!!! ...and thank you Ray!!!!!
Thank you for this! Mark, you are doing such great interviews lately!!!
Thank you Mark, for the balance! I like these stories…I am from WV but migrated to NC in my 20’s. After a visit with family (I do every summer) with my grandsons I decided to make a trip thru the middle of WV. I took the gboys to Moundsville State Penitentiary which shut down in 1995. One of the guards that use to work there gave us the tour…best deterrent for preteens they really liked it. Next trip was Weston Insane Asylum then New River Gorge Bridge. Best trip so far 😎👍🏼
I need to take my sons to see the inside of a prison. I did 3 short prison sentences, and they don't know that yet because I don't want them thinking it's OK.
Wow! What an amazing interview! What an amazing man! I don’t think I have ever watched an interview having a man who oozes integrity, like this man.
Nice backdrop change, gives us something to look at... keep it up Mark, some of these stories have changed my life in small ways and also ways that it took me a while to realize. I was a dancer for on/off 10yrs and did pain pills for 12 yrs, my first BF hung himself when I was 16.... I can relate in many ways to these people. Cassandra will always be my favorite though. RIP...
🖤🖤🖤
A good storyteller deserving of more vlogs.
He should write a book of bis stories!
Hi Mark....am really Enjoying these Interviews...Love the background of the Prison Bars.....Artwork of Lifestories......
Thankyou for all your hardwork it changes lives!!!!!
Incredible interview! Thanks, Mark
This by far is one of the best videos you have ever done. Thank you, Mark.
I love this interview. I could listen to his stories forever.
Thank for this interview. Love listening to him talk, sounds just like my papaw.
A few videos back during the book auction you mentioned that there were developments after the confrention with the Whitakers. Will you be following up with us soon on what has happened with them?
Thanks Mark ❤
Mark I TOTALLY enjoyed this interview. I am an avid listener. It’s one of my strong points. He was great in telling his stories. I was mesmerized the entire time. It flew by. Thank you.
My father spent many a year in Brushy Mountain . Have many horror stories from that old place. Glad my dad made it out alive.
You sound like someone Mark would be interested to talk to about your father's experiences.
I have enjoyed watching, listening to Ray. He seems like a good man, and unfortunately, he’s a rare breed, nowadays. I bet his family has a lot of respect for him, and many great memories of his stories of his life. He has a great memory and is a good storyteller.
Loved the interview . His story at the end of the inmate and his son hugging and crying broke my heart . A lot of those inmates have amazing hearts they just made bad choices at one point in their life .
This was the best video yet, i could listen to this mans stories all day!
Great interview. I could have listened to his stories for hours. Nice to see you interview someone who isn’t a druggie or with major head issues.
Dabailey 🤔. Good point I have enjoyed many of this channel’s stories but. The are Heavy on extreme drug use alcoholism and severe mental issues. This gentleman was a breath of fresh air. 🌎💪🏽🚀. Just the facts heartbreaking- in life -
About time he interviewed someone who's sober
Saturday morning coffee and an interesting interview, thank you Mark! Love this!❤
Wow, this man is amazing. I am so glad he is still here with us. And can share wisdom and knowledge with us. He is a true man. He is a true fighter. He is a good man. I can see it in his eyes.
Amazing story. Thank you sir. Keep these prison interviews coming!
Blessings from Toronto
Great work.
Nice early morning drop here in Toronto.
This one is going to be great! Thank you Mark
Mark! What a great interview! I absolutely loved watching this interview with Ray. It was too short. More of these Mark. Thank you!❤
Always excited for a new SWU video
Same. I am always wondering what do we got today from SWU😊
Another great interview. I could listen to this man's stories all day . Thanks Mr Ray
These prison interviews are fantastic.
These Tennessee prison guys have a special kind of character. They’re fair, honest, and engaging because I could listen to him tell his stories for hours.
Ray may be all those things bit here in WV they're ruthless. Dirty. Lying and any other adjective. At least 9 out of 10 are corrupt.
Yeah because you know that for certain just by listening to a 1 hour video.
@@Arn3zoh and you’re certain on what you believe? please.
@@jaymegallo5575 this man been around all this racist ass bs for years and you think he’s been a saint for 40 plus years. You’re fucking delusional.
Lol honest, fair you are joking. I guess you have never been to prison before.if so you would know most guards aren't fair or honest, but mostly crooked scum bags
Thank you Ray and Mark. Amazing!!
Easily my favorite interview. Thank you, Mark.
What a nice Man!! I'm awake in Myrtle Beach SC He feally had a tough job !!
Very moving. Excellent post, Mark.
This was a fantastic interview! Boy did he have stories! What a man! ❤
Many thanks to you Ray for doing this interview! I could listen to you talk all day!
Great interview and great story teller. I could have listened to Ray for another hour.
Living in NC now, I love to hear these stories. Excellent guest!!
This prison has a crazy history when I looked it up.
Thank you!
THIS MAN IS PHENOMENAL. HE SAVED SO MANY LIVES & HIS EXPERIENCES WILL LIVE ON. I PRAY HE WRITES A BOOK 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾❤️
I could listen to this man for hours!!!! Another damn good interview. The prison worker videos are always gold
These recent videos are really fantastic, just waiting for mark to stumble on the untapped resource of extended care facilities, so many stories that deserve to be heard
These prison guard and prison warden interviews are the best ones
He reminds me of one of my Grandmother's friends. Love this Mark!!
Very nice interview, Mark! Very refreshing from a few past "guests"....
Great interview! Could listen to him for hours.
Thank you for this story! Listening life stories like this man is encouraging and openning your eyes.
WOWWWW, GREAT INTERVIEW!
Mr. Laita, thank you for another outstanding interview. At the end of it, I feel the same way I felt at the end of watching The Shawshank Redemption. I love having your platform available when ‘television’ sucks. The ultimate reality streamed on demand. I remember the old days of looking at TV Guide. Now, I just check to see if you have a new uploaded interview. Educational and inspiring, & certainly not a waste of time. And of course, thank you to all of your guests & their stories.
What a great interview. I was the food service manager at BMP for a short time in 1989 and I can attest to what this gentleman is saying. I worked at three different facilities during my tenure with the TDOC and Brushy Mountain was unlike any other prison in the state of Tennessee.
Well I’m sorry but I’m not just going to take your word for it. Plz provide proof of years you were employed or ill just have to dismiss this as unproven information
@@LordOfThePancakesshut up dude
This was a great interview, such an awesome storyteller
Best Interview EVER
This has been one of the best interviews. Thank you, sir.
Mark, this is your calling. I love hearing the wisdom of our people. Your ability to share this with us is a true study in humanity. It is difficult, for you, as you have such a wonderful empathic heart. Guard that and do not take on a hundred years of disfunction to make your heart troubled.
Bless you as I listen to this wonderful wise man!
What a wonderful man. It was one of the best interviews. Very informative !
Excellent interview
My Nana is from TN and her dad, my Great-Grandfather, looked and sounds exactly like this man. So confronting to hear him talk. The portrait you took of him Mark is beautiful. ❤
The world needs more men like Ray.
WOW, just wow. I think this man and the warden from here are my favorite interviews yet.
I’ll tell you what, sponsors and commercials in the middle of videos are sooo disingenuous and annoying but the commercial of Better Help was so good! It was so genuine and it fit right into the video. He was able to relate very well and it just sounded authentic.
Oh my I could listen to his stories all day. I really liked this video.