I had a similar story. I fell in love with computers at 9, but my Dad left my mom, myself and my 2 brothers when I was 11. There was a period we got groceries out of the gas station as that was the only credit card my Mom had credit with at the time. I was told by my High School guidance counselor to "take a track in construction or something like that." They wanted me to focus on passing school and not going to jail or getting hooked on drugs. I worked 2 jobs living with my Mom, helping with the household expenses while attending college. I struggled through college as I also had ADHD (diagnosis in my mid 30's), but I made it through. I have been professionally developing software since 1999, worked on several projects that have patents, and now hold a director-level position in a Fortune 50 developing accounting systems with integrations with Big Data. I have been laid off for months in my career, almost losing my apartment, yet I started just like you working as a technician in a local computer store and taking old boards/equipment to buildout lab machines. My first Linux distro was Slackware 3.0 :) Keep up the good work. I have followed your videos and learned a lot about Kubernetes, Raspberry pi, and ProxMox.
I am 12 years behind the curb because I was told at 32 I was too old to get into IT. At 44 I bit the bullet and now currently in a semester long educational program to get three certifications with help to get more to help focus my career. I'm still scared as shite, but Im really keen to get into Linux and cloud infrastructure. *fingers crossed*. Thank you for your story.
i too once thought that certs were scary, but they're actually quite attainable if you set aside enough time to prepare and do it efficiently and with a lot of fun
It is amazing how as a child you grow up thinking adults have it solved, then you realize everyone is trying to keep it up every. single. day. Good vid
you are a true inspiration, i am broke, jobless, depressed and without college degree, but really hyper passionate about linux, thank you for this video.
Thank you Jeremy for your story. I had a close friend who was a Linux administrator volunteer to teach me Linux and I declined because I didn't believe I had the aptitude to learn it. 30 yrs later I watched a Network Chuck video on Virtual Machines and that was my cordial introduction to Linux. He demystified the process and as you have done in this video, encouraged me by saying you can do it. Now, almost a year later I have learned so much about Linux. I can navigate the system, I've gotten familiar with and used multiple distros, and have come along way. I had no idea you came from such humble beginnings. I would have never known that was your past because you are so polished in your instruction. Your story is truly inspirational indeed!!! Thank You.
Hey Jay, not sure if you still read comments haha (I am pretty sure on my old LinkedIn we used to be connected on there), but I just wanted to say you've been a huge inspiration to me! I am young and have dealt with a lot of the same issues you have (poverty, health issues, awful employers, people being haters, etc. etc.) and I was about ready to throw in the towel honestly, but you are one of the people who kept me going for motivation (even if it's a "stranger" haha). I've realized unfortunately in every career dealing with issues such as rejection, judgement, and failure seems to be a part of it. Now (luckily) I am in school online accelerating through my bachelor's degree and so far it's going good! Just wanted to tell you how awesome you are, keep doing what you're doing and thanks for the solid advice (coming from an internet stranger lol). :)
i went from poverty (to the point of near starvation) to career too. For this i'm forever grateful to my wife and my son for having encouraged me plenty along the way.
Well I am a CNC-operator I work on a laser-cutter and I love my job very much. I wanted to be a electric engineer and have studied as a electric engineer. I worked with computers all my life. I started with a ZX-spectrum and programmed in basic. When I started my job as CNC-operator. I knew nothing about it. I would do this only for a half of a year and then do something else. But one of the guys on the office said he could program this machine and I was reading through his listing and said to him, this is very easy. These are just tools programmed in a x and y grid and it has a certain origin (x0Y0). As soon as he told me where the origin was I took a pencil and was drawing the pattern. He went upstairs and came back a half our later and said to me, do not leave this place. I have just arranged a contract for you. Never wanted this job as a kid, but now I am loving it. And doing it for about 25 years.
I discovered your channel less than a week ago. I can't put into words how inspiring this video was to me... Thank you for sharing your valuable knowledge but also your background and how you got here.
Truly inspiring!! I’m 43 and wanting to make a career change into IT and wasn’t sure if I should even bother at my age, but I love IT. I’m thinking of getting into software development, I’m currently teaching myself python. Thanks for sharing your story!!
I was told multiple times that I could not get into IT because of my grades, even from my Career counselor in school. All told me to just get a job in another field. I also failed College and yet I was offered an apprenticeship in an IT company. It has been 10 years since I played around (and fried) my first PC and today I have my own Homelab and are in the 2nd year of my apprenticeship, if I did what all the people around me told me I wouldn't have ever gotten here. :) And while my childhood wasn't as bad as yours, it was still hard with often jobless parents (both had alcohol abusing parents) and 5 younger siblings. It feels nice to hear that I am not the only one with a Rocky path.
Jay, I had a very successful career in IT for over 16 years while pursuing my MSIT and before going on to get my PhD-LD in IT Education and teaching at two local colleges teaching Web technologies, Linux, Operating Systems, and Computer Science. You have been an inspiration to me in furthering my knowledge in Linux, especially Kubernetes, Docker, and Ansible. I'm trying to persuade a young man to get his Linux certifications and pursue a career in IT, specifically in Linux Administration. I'm forwarding this video to him. Thank you.
The best thing about computers these days is almost everyone has access to one(at the library if you can't afford one). And all the knowledge is on the internet and books. The only thing stopping you from being an expert yourself is you. The information is right here in front of us thanks to people like you who share that information, all the rest of us have to do is take it. If you want to be a sysadmin or a programmer it's only a matter of time and dedication. The second best thing is you don't need millions in capital to start your own business :)
started my IT career path because I liked being on AOL all day. My first IT manager took a chance on me and I’ve been supporting my family ever since. I too am not happy with working and supporting Windows, and I am discouraged from certifying in anything Linux, even though that’s what I use personally at home. Your story is inspiring and I won’t stop until I work with infrastructure using Linux when I near retirement.
Thank you for sharing this story. I got into IT at 27 , I was older than all of my peers while working the service desk. I've doubled my salary and my outlook on life is looking so much more positive than it was before. IT is a life changer. In a year or 2 I should be making more than both my parents combined. The American dream is real.
Hello Jay! Man you are the first person I watched on TH-cam to learn how to install Ubuntu and nailed it. You are an inspiration for all of us! Kudos from Romania!! :)
Thanks, Jay, for this inspiring video and such a deep inside look into your life. I think your greatest talent is that you can explain even the most complicated stuff in a way that it is fun and understandable. I think that's a big part of your success. Being in IT and Linux myself i know that there is always someone who you think might me "better" or "greater". All you need to do is not to bother too much about them, make your way in your own pace and have fun learning something new every day. That's why I am into Linux, btw. I am a big fan of what you do here and hope you will continue to share your knowledge and stories with us, cause i have rarely met a channel here where i like to watch every single video. Thanks for doing what you do! Regards from Germany!
I know this video is old, but I just saw it. I have a somewhat less tragic story but there's definite parallels. Most of my friends have/had very similar or worse backstories to yours, but most of them are dead or in prison. Tbh I never would've guessed it on, let's just say, your complexion. I don't mean any offense. I'm white as well, but most people I grew up with were not. At the end of the day though, it's about your life experiences, luck, and perseverance, and the latter is definitely strong in you. Much respect for your grind! Hats off. Truly. Your survival is not to be taken lightly. Flint is no joke!! While I've been in an IT/DevOps role for over a decade, I'm the only one that "made it". I don't learn a ton from most of your videos because they're targeted at a slightly newer audience, but there's still gems to glean, you always make it worth my time, and I very much appreciate that there is someone making this type of content. Excuse my lack of brevity, but this is my way of saying thank you; keep up the amazing work! Tbh, the memories that you've stirred up in me in this year-old video have given me goosebumps. You deserve every penny!
Thank you for that video talk. Thanks for sharing. It almost brought me to tears. Reminds me of Eminem’s “Lose Yourself” You appreciate what you have when you’ve had to struggle for it. Others might only see a finished product or at least a slice of your progress in time. They don’t see all the blood sweat and tears you gave to the struggle. Hats off to you!
As someone who feels they've hit a rough patch in their career (though I'm still employed, just hitting some hard times) this video means a lot to me. Seeing someone who has had success in the field despite obstacles gives me hope that regardless of what happens, the future can still hold something great. Really appreciate your content, man. Thanks for sharing your story.
Thanks for sharing this Jeremy! I know it takes guts to share this with others. Absolutely great, you did it, thumbs up, etc, etc, etc. From a tiny town, in the greater Amsterdam area, planet Earth.
Whoa!!? Jay!! Wow man….literally just watched this after my earlier comment. Guess that answers my concern. Thank you for sharing this man….we’re a lot more alike than I thought man. This definitely reached me and affected my future for sure. Thanks buddy!
Thank you for the video. I am working in IT and even though I had way more luck with my school, university, and sys admin jobs than you, this motivates me to keep pushing out of my comfort zone more than I was willing to push. It helps to realise, that failure is a way to success and one should not be afraid of it, but accept it as a step further when and if it happens. Thank you once again :)
Holy grail! Jay you never who you just inspired, my story sounds more or less the same, but I think I was lucky to have a home, currently I'm working to support myself as I'm very much interested in programming & electronics, just got a push from you to put in more efforts towards what your heart beats for. Will work hard to get there. Thb I was never this open, today in just humbled, credit to you Jay. Thanks again for the much needed inspiration.
Jeremy, deep thanks and appreciation for sharing your personal story, struggle and developmental challenges. It was inspiring and I believe it will leave a lasting legacy of encouragement for all aspiring IT professionals. Thanks for your contribution to our community. Imagine if the Raspberry Pi had come out when you were a young person and how much that could have changed your life? I appreciate the GNU/Linux and Raspberry Pi content you have produced and will continue to follow your channel for its interesting and valuable Linux content. You are the second, now famous working class-background guy from Flint, MI, that has overcome diversity that I admire. Keep going, and stay well!
This was quite a story. My youth wasn't all that ideal but it wasn't anything near you went through. Exposing your personal life like this to the internet is very brave. You certainly succeeded in inspiring people.
Thank you, Jay. I am very glad that you have had the determination to have been able to come so far. As well as your main career, your channel has in various ways enriched my own knowledge of Linux. So, thank you again.
Subscribed instantly. I can relate so much to his story... Computers dont cheat, they dont betray and dont sell and rat you out, people do. So the logical thing, is to be very good friends with computers :) By the way, Unix is user-friendly - it's just choosy about who its friends are.
U have a great story! I am transitioning at a late age into IT. I do feel like I'm gonna be shamed or discriminate against because i'm getting a late start. Ur story helped remind me not to give up. Thank U!
Jay, your story is very touching. I didn't have quite as hard a time getting into IT but I did come from a family that was not wealthy. They tried very hard to help me succeed and it was an amazing feeling to make it as far as I am currently. Your videos are super helpful to me, even if only on a personal level. Keep doing what you're doing. You make amazing content and help the community out tremendously. Thank you!
This is an awesome video, thank you for talking about something so personal and honest. I can't imagine it's easy talking about struggles and failures like this. I'm glad you didn't listen to those people who told you that IT wasn't for you. Your channel has been, and continues to be, my #1 resource for all things Linux. Thanks for all the content you push out, it's helpful beyond measure.
You my friend, are a really living example to be followed!! Thanks so much for sharing your story, you're indeed very brave!! I'm a 45 years old Cuban, living and working in Jamaica (the caribbean island) as a Brand Avocate (customer service) for a foreing company. I'm an IT realated man (Unix/Linux system administration) but in Cuba we have no possibilities to get internationaly certified, so I landed here 3 months ago with the dream of working in IT but conditions changed because of not being certified. I'm studying by myself to pass the CompTIA certifications as a point of start for applying IT positions. It's really difficult, no money to even buy the books or pay for the exams, but as you said I'll never back down!!
The proof you made shows that suffering leads to endurance, a great character you have right now, and finally hope. Your love for IT displayed your patience and how kind you were.
A little late to this video, but I loved this. I've always been the "tech savvy" person in my family / friend groups and just recently (about the last 2-3 years) decided to start getting more serious about IT and try to get into the industry. I worked in tech sales, I was a corporate consultant for Apple for 5 years and worked at another company as a NOC manager... I left Apple for that NOC job and the company was so scrambled that I left and shortly after like 10-15 other management members left, as well. It reminded me of your situation. I'm now 40 and looking to get into either infosec or systems administration. It's hard to break into a field like tech when you're this age. Your story was very inspiring and I love the content you create! I'm getting ready to start blogging some Linux and pentesting stuff because I love sharing knowledge with others and it's not a bad way to show employers I know anything at all ha ha. Keep up the great content!
Thank you so much for this video. Overcoming the odds that are against you is GREAT to hear!!! July 8 2022 I turned 65 and a few days later, July 12 I got laid-off. Now I am pursuing embedded Linux which I have never done before BUT I have an electronic degree and have been programming "C" since the early eighties. Now I am pursuing what I want to do and not what I had to do.
Jay thank you for sharing your story. I had an I.T. Job but I broke my ankle and the company let me go after 10 years with them. This was back in 2016. I am now 52 year old, no one is going to hire an old man like me with a lot of health issues, but your story I am going to try hard than ever. Thank you stay strong, safe, and blessed Jay.
now, I'm twice as proud to spend my time on your channel! I'm fwding this story of yours to my groups & colleagues cause it's a huge dope of inspiration! THANK YOU for sharing
Thanks Jay! And thank you so much for sharing your story. I’m 62 and my entire profession is moving to being almost totally IP based. Your channel has help me over many humps and filled gaps in my knowledge to be able to continue to work with confidence! You sir are a blessing!
I don't want to sound like a "toady," but you're my favourite "Linux Guy" on TH-cam. Thank you for your professionalism and your time teaching us new things 🙏 😊
Jay, I stand humbled by your story. I too have come from hardship. I worked hard, got fired, almost lost my home. But like you I did not give up. Today I am also in IT and I work for a large international company. So to hear your story hits very close to home for me too. Thank you for your video. It really made me think of where I have come from and where I am today. You are an inspiration. Keep up the good work. I have learned a lot from your videos. Thank you.
This is a very inspiring video. It IS very hard to get into IT, even if you have experience. I moved from warehouse management to IT (I have had a long career in IT) and the company I was working for went out of business. I have not been able to get back into IT since. Now with Covid I got laid off. I have never really gotten into Linux before and started playing around with it during layoff. I have found out why so many love it. I have built servers (and even built my own Samba server), learned Docker, Portainer, OMV with Portainer, Proxmox and have built a pretty interesting ecosystem here at home. I may actually try to get back into IT on the Linux side now. Thanks!
Jay, I couldn’t agree with you more. I have found such comments from people drives me to do what I want to accomplish. This evening I watched this episode as well as the one where you quit your day job. Now your next adventure is happening. Great channel! Thanks for caring about all of us new want-to-be Linux geeks. Looking forward to each episode as well as reading your books. Bill
As someone who has not finished university, this really gives me a perspective on what I need to do. I need to finish what I started. Thank you for the proverbial "boot to the rear". Your story is very inspiring. I want to get there someday, but at age 40, I guess I will be late to the party.
Wow, thank you for this! I have struggled a lot over my career as well with people telling me that I did not belong and this year in particular has been really rough. I love working in IT but the culture that surrounds it has made me start to doubt if I want to stay with it. This video was like the breath of fresh air that I needed. Thank you so much for all of the wonderful content that you put out!
Man, these stories are so important. I also thought computers were something for just the upper class, and moved, as a child, more often than I proceeded to the next grade. Now, 30-ish years later (and after being a machinist for 25+ years), I'm nearly done with a degree in cybersecurity and digital forensics. One of my classes was all about Linux server, your instruction was incredibly helpful. Thanks to you, and thank to all of us who persevere. Thanks, Jay.
amazing! thank you so much for sharing your journey 🙂 incredibly inspiring! I'm 31 and only just getting into IT and honestly I've had a computer in the family for more than 10 years but you never even consider stuff like IT or software development because of the negative voices both inside and outside of your head, especially with learning disabilities feeling like a confirmation of those negative voices. not to mention ADHD! as a grown up, with a greater hold of my own destiny, I realize that out of all fields in the world, IT is the most forgiving: the more you try, the better you get; and a high failure count is something so many of us are used to coming into this field. if feels made for us. despite the big egos who do put us down.
This hit home hard, brother. Not ashamed to say that I cried. Brought up so many bad memories. I live next door in Cleveland. I'm from a country where I didn't have power in my house. I had to study on a lantern and walk 8 miles a day for the whole 12 years of school. All 3 of my brothers quit because they couldn't take the agony of it. I suffered but kept pushing. Eventually somehow made it to college and graduated with a bachelor degree in microbiology. Then joined the US military as a translator and got my visa to the US. Long and painful process. I'm now a proud US citizen with a wife and two kids. I do work in IT (same fascination with computers). It pays pretty low, but my foot is in the door :) I've also started a youtube channel. A tiny channel. I often get discouraged because of the very small amount of views and subs I get, but then I think it's ok, I'm in into t because I get to share what I've learned with people who might appreciate it no matter how small the number is. I've never met you in person (I'd be honored if I ever ran into you during my many visits to Detroit btw), but I'm so proud to be one of your subscribers, truly. You always sound like a humble and good spirit to me, even though sometimes I don't understand some of those deep dives into Linux videos. 😆 Edit: Thank you for making this video and all the other work you publish. I've never missed a video. I truly appreciate it.
Hi, back in a day when I discovered linux , I discovered your channel, but for some reason I gave up on linux for windows, and stopped followed your channel. Many years later, i came back to linux. I decided to move from windows to linux entirely, and I have discovered your channel again. Now im linux user, learning everything from scratch and I wish I had decided sooner to use linux. I would like to thank you for all your work and effort in teaching others. This video is very inspiring and important for me at this point, thank you so much . All the best for you.
I had my own challenges in my growing up life...but not as much as you went through pushed through...your story is inspiring...would inspire me if I ever feel stuck due to any failure...hats off to you....and Big Thanks for sharing your knowledge with so many like us...across the globe....I am from India.
I am 31 and I decided to work in IT. I want to be a specialist of Linux. I tried to learn programming, I tried to learn testing, but I didnt't feel passion for that. I realised that most intresting for me are operating systems (especially Linux). I want to be a Linux Admin. I have started learning about computer networks etc. Your video inspires me. Wish me good luck to get a job in accordance with my passion.
I am your subscriber, I follow your videos, I am your customer because I bought two of your books from Google play, but now after watching this video I feel you as a friend. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Very inspiring story. Like you I have ADHD and had an impossible time in school. Fast forward to the present day and I'm starting my 39th year in IT at the same Fortune 500 company.
Thank you for an amazing video! Your childhood story is the proof of the fact that you had a goal in your life, and you wouldn't let go! and just wanted you to know that all my Video's i share on LinkedIn are from your channel. it's an honor for me! God bless you Jay!
It is amazing, I have such a similar story. My Mom was an alcoholic and I failed in school. I was 30 years old before I found out that I had ADHD. I was so very ready to give up. I watched the video of you and my good friend Nathan Haines talk about your books. You guys are amazing.
Really inspired with your content, thank you. I'm from another side of the world (Philippines) and experienced extreme poverty too and now here I am in IT field and still keeps pushing to my goal in life. and watching your videos motivates and inspired me a lot to keeps pushing whatever road blocks along the way.
Thank you Jay, I just started following you recently, am blessed!! As a person from Africa I can relate with the poverty. I have a pretty old laptop with Linux Os and this is like the greatest thing that has ever happened to me. Thank you!
I have been following your channel for some time now. And while all of the content has been informative, I hung on every word in this video. I have been in the IT world for over 40 years and I have to agree with you...having a desire to learn, to be inquisitive about how things work, how hardware and software are intertwined...is everything. I have done a lot, learned a lot during those 40 years and I wouldn't trade the IT career for anything else. I'll still have my fingers in IT when I retire in a few years. Keep up the good work. Your hard work has made this channel awesome.
Love from Iran, Jay. Very inspirational video. Great job. Due to political and economy crisis, I decided to immigrate to Canada and now I'm in the final steps of immigration. Having nearly about 10 years of experience in IT industry but I have many concerns about finding a job in Vancouver. You have helped me a lot to learn Linux. Thank you so much for your videos man. Keep up the good work. ❤
Wow you recaped most of my life. I had to provide for my family so when they told me you can't I crumbled and labored away.,.. then cancer struck I'm still recovering from it. Can't go back to the fields I used to work in. Time for a change. Just don't know where or which direction to look. Thanks for the video
Hello Jay, Thank you for this beautiful encouraging testimony! I can understand you a little, because I myself had to wait years before I could buy myself a computer at the age of 46. Since Windows 98 was crashing all the time, in 2000, a friend introduced me to free software and GNU / Linux. It wasn't as convivial as it is today, far from it, but I immediately saw the order and the logic. Even though I didn't understand it, I saw that "that stuff" seemed meant to be understood. Today, I am far from understanding everything, but I manage to install and configure my system. When I update my system, I find my bearings and above all, I can continue to use my favorite software as well as my hardware. Which was not always the case before ... GNU / Linux. -- Bonjour Jay, Merci pour ce beau témoignage encourageant ! Je peux te comprendre un peu, car j'ai moi-même dû attendre des années avant de pouvoir m'acheter un ordinateur à l'age de 46 ans. Comme Windows 98 crashait tout le temps, en 2000, un ami m'a fait découvrir les logiciels libres et GNU/Linux. Ce n'était pas aussi convivial qu'aujourd'hui, loin de là, mais j'y voyais tout de suite l'ordre et la logique. Même si je n'y comprenais rien, j'ai vu que "ce truc-là" semblait fait pour être compris. Aujourd'hui, je suis loin de tout comprendre, mais j'arrive à installer et à configurer mon système. Quand je mets mon système à jour, je retrouve mes repères et surtout, je peux continuer à utiliser mes logiciels favoris ainsi que mon matériel. Ce qui n'était pas toujours le cas avant... GNU/Linux.
I relate to your story so much man. Grew up on welfare in Detroit to a single mom. Loved computers. Got into U of M majoring in compsci but couldn't do the math prerequisites so I switched majors and ended up working minimum wage jobs in restaurants. I joined the Air Force at 30. I'm 33 now in an MS for Cybersecurity program. I've got my Sec+ and GIAC GCWN certs and planning on knocking out 3-4 more next year. Got my eyes set on the GPEN. Gonna be set once my enlistment is up. It's hard work, but also a great feeling.
You've come a long way. I too am paving my way with old PCs nobody wants anymore and similarly suffer with bipolar disorder. You are an inspiration to us, Jay!
Great story and your passion shows up while you are teaching ! God bless you. I just started learning Linux 4 weeks ago and I love it. I am 49 years old and a non IT guy but I just love Linux. I have downloaded Ubuntu, Mint, CentOS, FossPop, Red Hat on my windows. I practice bashing on Virtual Machine along with your Video.
Thank you Jay, for sharing your story in this manner; and for this channel. I'm fairly new to Linux, but I am absolutely loving it. The goal is to go for RHCSA in a few months, and your videos are my main video-lesson source. I scour the web and read/watch/practice everything, and I can honestly say your videos are the best for me. It has been extremely helpful, and I am truly loving every step. I appreciate you Jay. Thanks again.
Jay, Your life-story is an amazing story. You tenacity is amazing. Your videos are very, very helpful. Congratulations on your life-success and your Linux-success. Keep up the good work.
Thank you for sharing your life story with us. You're story is very inspiring. I grew up in a tough neighborhood myself (South Bronx) during the 1980's so I can relate. There were abandoned buildings everywhere. Back then, the Bronx looked like a scene from World War 2. In my neighborhood, it seemed like everyone was smoking weed, drinking alcohol and snorting coke. The only person you could look up to was the drug dealer. But as you may know, drug dealers careers didn't last very long. I was also in and out of foster homes for most of my life. Sometimes, It seems like the world just constantly beats down on you. Theoretically, I should have been dead. But just like you, I persevered. I found that the key is either you can take those experiences and make them work for you, or they can work against you. I chose to make it work for me by starting my own online radio station and working in the court reporting business. One thing you have to remember, (as you said in your video) no matter how tough you have it, there is ALWAYS somebody that has it worse than you.
Hello Jay, I just came across your very inspiring video. Without going into much detail I can really identify with your struggles with ADD - I also struggled with it throughout my tech career. I thank God I did not give up in spite of my many failures.
Thank you Jay for sharing your stor, you are inspiring to all of us people who have struggled one way or another working in IT, love your videos, the way you explain makes the concepts easier. King regards from Mexico
I love this video. It gives me hope. I am 36 and finally in college for IT. I work in Seattle at facebook as a cook and want to get hired on at facebook in the IT department. I am not going to give up on that dream.
I had a similar story. I fell in love with computers at 9, but my Dad left my mom, myself and my 2 brothers when I was 11. There was a period we got groceries out of the gas station as that was the only credit card my Mom had credit with at the time. I was told by my High School guidance counselor to "take a track in construction or something like that." They wanted me to focus on passing school and not going to jail or getting hooked on drugs.
I worked 2 jobs living with my Mom, helping with the household expenses while attending college. I struggled through college as I also had ADHD (diagnosis in my mid 30's), but I made it through.
I have been professionally developing software since 1999, worked on several projects that have patents, and now hold a director-level position in a Fortune 50 developing accounting systems with integrations with Big Data. I have been laid off for months in my career, almost losing my apartment, yet I started just like you working as a technician in a local computer store and taking old boards/equipment to buildout lab machines. My first Linux distro was Slackware 3.0 :)
Keep up the good work. I have followed your videos and learned a lot about Kubernetes, Raspberry pi, and ProxMox.
I am 12 years behind the curb because I was told at 32 I was too old to get into IT. At 44 I bit the bullet and now currently in a semester long educational program to get three certifications with help to get more to help focus my career. I'm still scared as shite, but Im really keen to get into Linux and cloud infrastructure. *fingers crossed*. Thank you for your story.
Same here...
GOOD LUCK YOU CAN DO IT!!
i too once thought that certs were scary, but they're actually quite attainable if you set aside enough time to prepare and do it efficiently and with a lot of fun
@@markganus1085 i'm super stubborn
Im in a similar boat as well...
Im finding the problem is entry level jobs requiring 2-3years experience. WTF?
Parting shot : The only thing that is required for a career in IT, is the desire to get it.
Your perseverance and determination are an inspiration for everyone.
💨;;
"Tough situations build strong people."
Love your story. You just got a new subscriber!
It is amazing how as a child you grow up thinking adults have it solved, then you realize everyone is trying to keep it up every. single. day. Good vid
As a 18 year old just getting in the field you have no idea how much your story empowers me! Thank you
you are a true inspiration, i am broke, jobless, depressed and without college degree, but really hyper passionate about linux, thank you for this video.
Thank you Jeremy for your story. I had a close friend who was a Linux administrator volunteer to teach me Linux and I declined because I didn't believe I had the aptitude to learn it. 30 yrs later I watched a Network Chuck video on Virtual Machines and that was my cordial introduction to Linux. He demystified the process and as you have done in this video, encouraged me by saying you can do it. Now, almost a year later I have learned so much about Linux. I can navigate the system, I've gotten familiar with and used multiple distros, and have come along way. I had no idea you came from such humble beginnings. I would have never known that was your past because you are so polished in your instruction. Your story is truly inspirational indeed!!! Thank You.
Hey Jay, not sure if you still read comments haha (I am pretty sure on my old LinkedIn we used to be connected on there), but I just wanted to say you've been a huge inspiration to me! I am young and have dealt with a lot of the same issues you have (poverty, health issues, awful employers, people being haters, etc. etc.) and I was about ready to throw in the towel honestly, but you are one of the people who kept me going for motivation (even if it's a "stranger" haha). I've realized unfortunately in every career dealing with issues such as rejection, judgement, and failure seems to be a part of it. Now (luckily) I am in school online accelerating through my bachelor's degree and so far it's going good! Just wanted to tell you how awesome you are, keep doing what you're doing and thanks for the solid advice (coming from an internet stranger lol). :)
i went from poverty (to the point of near starvation) to career too. For this i'm forever grateful to my wife and my son for having encouraged me plenty along the way.
Well I am a CNC-operator I work on a laser-cutter and I love my job very much.
I wanted to be a electric engineer and have studied as a electric engineer. I worked with computers all my life. I started with a ZX-spectrum and programmed in basic.
When I started my job as CNC-operator. I knew nothing about it. I would do this only for a half of a year and then do something else.
But one of the guys on the office said he could program this machine and I was reading through his listing and said to him, this is very easy. These are just tools programmed in a x and y grid and it has a certain origin (x0Y0).
As soon as he told me where the origin was I took a pencil and was drawing the pattern.
He went upstairs and came back a half our later and said to me, do not leave this place. I have just arranged a contract for you.
Never wanted this job as a kid, but now I am loving it. And doing it for about 25 years.
Love this video from you! I have been a developer for years and this type of inspiration keeps me going. Thank you!
Great to hear!
What about your brother slim Nguyen
Man you made it. You are the man of steel, lot of tears in my eyes and as the tears drop down it motivate me to keep going hard.
Same here 🥲
I discovered your channel less than a week ago. I can't put into words how inspiring this video was to me... Thank you for sharing your valuable knowledge but also your background and how you got here.
Thanks for sharing your struggles, and not giving up on your goal. You definitely have become a positive beacon in the IT and Linux community.
As a mentor once told me: "if you dont believe in your self believe in me and I believe in you"
Truly inspiring!! I’m 43 and wanting to make a career change into IT and wasn’t sure if I should even bother at my age, but I love IT. I’m thinking of getting into software development, I’m currently teaching myself python. Thanks for sharing your story!!
I was told multiple times that I could not get into IT because of my grades, even from my Career counselor in school. All told me to just get a job in another field. I also failed College and yet I was offered an apprenticeship in an IT company. It has been 10 years since I played around (and fried) my first PC and today I have my own Homelab and are in the 2nd year of my apprenticeship, if I did what all the people around me told me I wouldn't have ever gotten here. :)
And while my childhood wasn't as bad as yours, it was still hard with often jobless parents (both had alcohol abusing parents) and 5 younger siblings. It feels nice to hear that I am not the only one with a Rocky path.
I've never subscribed to a channel so fast in my life!
Jay, I had a very successful career in IT for over 16 years while pursuing my MSIT and before going on to get my PhD-LD in IT Education and teaching at two local colleges teaching Web technologies, Linux, Operating Systems, and Computer Science. You have been an inspiration to me in furthering my knowledge in Linux, especially Kubernetes, Docker, and Ansible. I'm trying to persuade a young man to get his Linux certifications and pursue a career in IT, specifically in Linux Administration. I'm forwarding this video to him. Thank you.
The best thing about computers these days is almost everyone has access to one(at the library if you can't afford one). And all the knowledge is on the internet and books. The only thing stopping you from being an expert yourself is you. The information is right here in front of us thanks to people like you who share that information, all the rest of us have to do is take it. If you want to be a sysadmin or a programmer it's only a matter of time and dedication.
The second best thing is you don't need millions in capital to start your own business :)
started my IT career path because I liked being on AOL all day. My first IT manager took a chance on me and I’ve been supporting my family ever since. I too am not happy with working and supporting Windows, and I am discouraged from certifying in anything Linux, even though that’s what I use personally at home. Your story is inspiring and I won’t stop until I work with infrastructure using Linux when I near retirement.
Thank you for sharing this story. I got into IT at 27 , I was older than all of my peers while working the service desk. I've doubled my salary and my outlook on life is looking so much more positive than it was before. IT is a life changer. In a year or 2 I should be making more than both my parents combined. The American dream is real.
Hello Jay! Man you are the first person I watched on TH-cam to learn how to install Ubuntu and nailed it. You are an inspiration for all of us! Kudos from Romania!! :)
Salutare. Utilizator de Ubuntu chiar aici. 🙂
Thanks, Jay, for this inspiring video and such a deep inside look into your life. I think your greatest talent is that you can explain even the most complicated stuff in a way that it is fun and understandable. I think that's a big part of your success. Being in IT and Linux myself i know that there is always someone who you think might me "better" or "greater". All you need to do is not to bother too much about them, make your way in your own pace and have fun learning something new every day. That's why I am into Linux, btw.
I am a big fan of what you do here and hope you will continue to share your knowledge and stories with us, cause i have rarely met a channel here where i like to watch every single video. Thanks for doing what you do! Regards from Germany!
I know this video is old, but I just saw it. I have a somewhat less tragic story but there's definite parallels. Most of my friends have/had very similar or worse backstories to yours, but most of them are dead or in prison.
Tbh I never would've guessed it on, let's just say, your complexion. I don't mean any offense. I'm white as well, but most people I grew up with were not. At the end of the day though, it's about your life experiences, luck, and perseverance, and the latter is definitely strong in you. Much respect for your grind! Hats off. Truly. Your survival is not to be taken lightly. Flint is no joke!!
While I've been in an IT/DevOps role for over a decade, I'm the only one that "made it". I don't learn a ton from most of your videos because they're targeted at a slightly newer audience, but there's still gems to glean, you always make it worth my time, and I very much appreciate that there is someone making this type of content.
Excuse my lack of brevity, but this is my way of saying thank you; keep up the amazing work! Tbh, the memories that you've stirred up in me in this year-old video have given me goosebumps. You deserve every penny!
Thank you for that video talk. Thanks for sharing. It almost brought me to tears. Reminds me of Eminem’s “Lose Yourself” You appreciate what you have when you’ve had to struggle for it. Others might only see a finished product or at least a slice of your progress in time. They don’t see all the blood sweat and tears you gave to the struggle. Hats off to you!
As someone who feels they've hit a rough patch in their career (though I'm still employed, just hitting some hard times) this video means a lot to me. Seeing someone who has had success in the field despite obstacles gives me hope that regardless of what happens, the future can still hold something great. Really appreciate your content, man. Thanks for sharing your story.
P
Thanks for sharing this Jeremy! I know it takes guts to share this with others. Absolutely great, you did it, thumbs up, etc, etc, etc.
From a tiny town, in the greater Amsterdam area, planet Earth.
Whoa!!? Jay!! Wow man….literally just watched this after my earlier comment. Guess that answers my concern. Thank you for sharing this man….we’re a lot more alike than I thought man. This definitely reached me and affected my future for sure. Thanks buddy!
Bro, first time I’m commenting in TH-cam, I know exactly what you mean. Keep it up :)
Much much thankful to you for uploading this video, it gave me faith to face odd situation as I am also struggling to make a career in linux admin 👍
Thank you for the video. I am working in IT and even though I had way more luck with my school, university, and sys admin jobs than you, this motivates me to keep pushing out of my comfort zone more than I was willing to push. It helps to realise, that failure is a way to success and one should not be afraid of it, but accept it as a step further when and if it happens. Thank you once again :)
Holy grail! Jay you never who you just inspired, my story sounds more or less the same, but I think I was lucky to have a home, currently I'm working to support myself as I'm very much interested in programming & electronics, just got a push from you to put in more efforts towards what your heart beats for. Will work hard to get there. Thb I was never this open, today in just humbled, credit to you Jay. Thanks again for the much needed inspiration.
Jeremy, deep thanks and appreciation for sharing your personal story, struggle and developmental challenges. It was inspiring and I believe it will leave a lasting legacy of encouragement for all aspiring IT professionals. Thanks for your contribution to our community.
Imagine if the Raspberry Pi had come out when you were a young person and how much that could have changed your life? I appreciate the GNU/Linux and Raspberry Pi content you have produced and will continue to follow your channel for its interesting and valuable Linux content. You are the second, now famous working class-background guy from Flint, MI, that has overcome diversity that I admire. Keep going, and stay well!
This was quite a story. My youth wasn't all that ideal but it wasn't anything near you went through. Exposing your personal life like this to the internet is very brave. You certainly succeeded in inspiring people.
Thank you, Jay. I am very glad that you have had the determination to have been able to come so far. As well as your main career, your channel has in various ways enriched my own knowledge of Linux. So, thank you again.
Subscribed instantly.
I can relate so much to his story...
Computers dont cheat, they dont betray and dont sell and rat you out, people do.
So the logical thing, is to be very good friends with computers :)
By the way, Unix is user-friendly - it's just choosy about who its friends are.
U have a great story! I am transitioning at a late age into IT. I do feel like I'm gonna be shamed or discriminate against because i'm getting a late start. Ur story helped remind me not to give up. Thank U!
“You had me at IT!” Delightful. Thanks for your inspiring story.
Jay, your story is very touching. I didn't have quite as hard a time getting into IT but I did come from a family that was not wealthy. They tried very hard to help me succeed and it was an amazing feeling to make it as far as I am currently. Your videos are super helpful to me, even if only on a personal level. Keep doing what you're doing. You make amazing content and help the community out tremendously. Thank you!
This is an awesome video, thank you for talking about something so personal and honest. I can't imagine it's easy talking about struggles and failures like this. I'm glad you didn't listen to those people who told you that IT wasn't for you. Your channel has been, and continues to be, my #1 resource for all things Linux. Thanks for all the content you push out, it's helpful beyond measure.
You my friend, are a really living example to be followed!! Thanks so much for sharing your story, you're indeed very brave!! I'm a 45 years old Cuban, living and working in Jamaica (the caribbean island) as a Brand Avocate (customer service) for a foreing company. I'm an IT realated man (Unix/Linux system administration) but in Cuba we have no possibilities to get internationaly certified, so I landed here 3 months ago with the dream of working in IT but conditions changed because of not being certified. I'm studying by myself to pass the CompTIA certifications as a point of start for applying IT positions. It's really difficult, no money to even buy the books or pay for the exams, but as you said I'll never back down!!
The proof you made shows that suffering leads to endurance, a great character you have right now, and finally hope. Your love for IT displayed your patience and how kind you were.
24:00 that one person is me who needed the most. Thank you so much for your kind efforts!
A little late to this video, but I loved this. I've always been the "tech savvy" person in my family / friend groups and just recently (about the last 2-3 years) decided to start getting more serious about IT and try to get into the industry. I worked in tech sales, I was a corporate consultant for Apple for 5 years and worked at another company as a NOC manager... I left Apple for that NOC job and the company was so scrambled that I left and shortly after like 10-15 other management members left, as well. It reminded me of your situation.
I'm now 40 and looking to get into either infosec or systems administration. It's hard to break into a field like tech when you're this age. Your story was very inspiring and I love the content you create! I'm getting ready to start blogging some Linux and pentesting stuff because I love sharing knowledge with others and it's not a bad way to show employers I know anything at all ha ha.
Keep up the great content!
Thank you so much for this video. Overcoming the odds that are against you is GREAT to hear!!! July 8 2022 I turned 65 and a few days later, July 12 I got laid-off. Now I am pursuing embedded Linux which I have never done before BUT I have an electronic degree and have been programming "C" since the early eighties. Now I am pursuing what I want to do and not what I had to do.
Jay thank you for sharing your story. I had an I.T. Job but I broke my ankle and the company let me go after 10 years with them. This was back in 2016. I am now 52 year old, no one is going to hire an old man like me with a lot of health issues, but your story I am going to try hard than ever. Thank you stay strong, safe, and blessed Jay.
now, I'm twice as proud to spend my time on your channel! I'm fwding this story of yours to my groups & colleagues cause it's a huge dope of inspiration! THANK YOU for sharing
Thanks Jay! And thank you so much for sharing your story. I’m 62 and my entire profession is moving to being almost totally IP based. Your channel has help me over many humps and filled gaps in my knowledge to be able to continue to work with confidence! You sir are a blessing!
I don't want to sound like a "toady," but you're my favourite "Linux Guy" on TH-cam. Thank you for your professionalism and your time teaching us new things 🙏 😊
Jay, I stand humbled by your story. I too have come from hardship. I worked hard, got fired, almost lost my home. But like you I did not give up. Today I am also in IT and I work for a large international company. So to hear your story hits very close to home for me too. Thank you for your video. It really made me think of where I have come from and where I am today. You are an inspiration. Keep up the good work. I have learned a lot from your videos. Thank you.
This is a very inspiring video. It IS very hard to get into IT, even if you have experience. I moved from warehouse management to IT (I have had a long career in IT) and the company I was working for went out of business. I have not been able to get back into IT since. Now with Covid I got laid off. I have never really gotten into Linux before and started playing around with it during layoff. I have found out why so many love it. I have built servers (and even built my own Samba server), learned Docker, Portainer, OMV with Portainer, Proxmox and have built a pretty interesting ecosystem here at home. I may actually try to get back into IT on the Linux side now. Thanks!
Jay, I couldn’t agree with you more. I have found such comments from people drives me to do what I want to accomplish.
This evening I watched this episode as well as the one where you quit your day job. Now your next adventure is happening.
Great channel! Thanks for caring about all of us new want-to-be Linux geeks. Looking forward to each episode as well as reading your books. Bill
As someone who has not finished university, this really gives me a perspective on what I need to do. I need to finish what I started.
Thank you for the proverbial "boot to the rear". Your story is very inspiring. I want to get there someday, but at age 40, I guess I will be late to the party.
Very emotional But Really inspiring Video. + Respect
Wow, thank you for this! I have struggled a lot over my career as well with people telling me that I did not belong and this year in particular has been really rough. I love working in IT but the culture that surrounds it has made me start to doubt if I want to stay with it. This video was like the breath of fresh air that I needed. Thank you so much for all of the wonderful content that you put out!
Man, these stories are so important. I also thought computers were something for just the upper class, and moved, as a child, more often than I proceeded to the next grade. Now, 30-ish years later (and after being a machinist for 25+ years), I'm nearly done with a degree in cybersecurity and digital forensics. One of my classes was all about Linux server, your instruction was incredibly helpful. Thanks to you, and thank to all of us who persevere. Thanks, Jay.
And, damn,...you survived Flint? Flint, a testament to the evils of neoliberalism, and capitalism.
And racism
amazing! thank you so much for sharing your journey 🙂
incredibly inspiring!
I'm 31 and only just getting into IT and honestly I've had a computer in the family for more than 10 years but you never even consider stuff like IT or software development because of the negative voices both inside and outside of your head, especially with learning disabilities feeling like a confirmation of those negative voices. not to mention ADHD!
as a grown up, with a greater hold of my own destiny, I realize that out of all fields in the world, IT is the most forgiving:
the more you try, the better you get; and a high failure count is something so many of us are used to coming into this field.
if feels made for us. despite the big egos who do put us down.
This hit home hard, brother. Not ashamed to say that I cried. Brought up so many bad memories. I live next door in Cleveland. I'm from a country where I didn't have power in my house. I had to study on a lantern and walk 8 miles a day for the whole 12 years of school. All 3 of my brothers quit because they couldn't take the agony of it. I suffered but kept pushing. Eventually somehow made it to college and graduated with a bachelor degree in microbiology. Then joined the US military as a translator and got my visa to the US. Long and painful process. I'm now a proud US citizen with a wife and two kids. I do work in IT (same fascination with computers). It pays pretty low, but my foot is in the door :)
I've also started a youtube channel. A tiny channel. I often get discouraged because of the very small amount of views and subs I get, but then I think it's ok, I'm in into t because I get to share what I've learned with people who might appreciate it no matter how small the number is.
I've never met you in person (I'd be honored if I ever ran into you during my many visits to Detroit btw), but I'm so proud to be one of your subscribers, truly. You always sound like a humble and good spirit to me, even though sometimes I don't understand some of those deep dives into Linux videos. 😆
Edit: Thank you for making this video and all the other work you publish. I've never missed a video. I truly appreciate it.
Heh bro, never forget: it's hard to get views when you got no talent.
😎
Very inspiring, much respect.
Hi, back in a day when I discovered linux , I discovered your channel, but for some reason I gave up on linux for windows, and stopped followed your channel. Many years later, i came back to linux. I decided to move from windows to linux entirely, and I have discovered your channel again. Now im linux user, learning everything from scratch and I wish I had decided sooner to use linux. I would like to thank you for all your work and effort in teaching others. This video is very inspiring and important for me at this point, thank you so much . All the best for you.
This is very impacting and lot of things to take home. Thank you so much.
I had my own challenges in my growing up life...but not as much as you went through pushed through...your story is inspiring...would inspire me if I ever feel stuck due to any failure...hats off to you....and Big Thanks for sharing your knowledge with so many like us...across the globe....I am from India.
Thank you for sharing your story. It encourages me to move on in spite of all of my setbacks.
You are the best teacher.
You are a brave and accomplished man. Thank you for sharing your story. It will be an inspiration to many.
I am 31 and I decided to work in IT. I want to be a specialist of Linux. I tried to learn programming, I tried to learn testing, but I didnt't feel passion for that. I realised that most intresting for me are operating systems (especially Linux). I want to be a Linux Admin. I have started learning about computer networks etc. Your video inspires me. Wish me good luck to get a job in accordance with my passion.
You have obtained all my respect. Great to ear you realized your wishes even if with so many troubles.
I am your subscriber, I follow your videos, I am your customer because I bought two of your books from Google play, but now after watching this video I feel you as a friend. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Very inspiring story. Like you I have ADHD and had an impossible time in school. Fast forward to the present day and I'm starting my 39th year in IT at the same Fortune 500 company.
Thank you for an amazing video! Your childhood story is the proof of the fact that you had a goal in your life, and you wouldn't let go! and just wanted you to know that all my Video's i share on LinkedIn are from your channel. it's an honor for me! God bless you Jay!
It is amazing, I have such a similar story. My Mom was an alcoholic and I failed in school. I was 30 years old before I found out that I had ADHD. I was so very ready to give up. I watched the video of you and my good friend Nathan Haines talk about your books. You guys are amazing.
YOU are amazing. Thank you for sharing that! 😀
Really inspired with your content, thank you. I'm from another side of the world (Philippines) and experienced extreme poverty too and now here I am in IT field and still keeps pushing to my goal in life. and watching your videos motivates and inspired me a lot to keeps pushing whatever road blocks along the way.
Thank you Jay, I just started following you recently, am blessed!!
As a person from Africa I can relate with the poverty. I have a pretty old laptop with Linux Os and this is like the greatest thing that has ever happened to me. Thank you!
keep hitting the tough points life gives u......u will be strong and RISE....
I have been following your channel for some time now. And while all of the content has been informative, I hung on every word in this video. I have been in the IT world for over 40 years and I have to agree with you...having a desire to learn, to be inquisitive about how things work, how hardware and software are intertwined...is everything. I have done a lot, learned a lot during those 40 years and I wouldn't trade the IT career for anything else. I'll still have my fingers in IT when I retire in a few years. Keep up the good work. Your hard work has made this channel awesome.
Thanks for sharing this story Jeremy. It is really inspiring!
Love from Iran, Jay. Very inspirational video. Great job. Due to political and economy crisis, I decided to immigrate to Canada and now I'm in the final steps of immigration. Having nearly about 10 years of experience in IT industry but I have many concerns about finding a job in Vancouver. You have helped me a lot to learn Linux. Thank you so much for your videos man. Keep up the good work. ❤
Wow you recaped most of my life. I had to provide for my family so when they told me you can't I crumbled and labored away.,.. then cancer struck I'm still recovering from it. Can't go back to the fields I used to work in. Time for a change. Just don't know where or which direction to look. Thanks for the video
Hello Jay,
Thank you for this beautiful encouraging testimony!
I can understand you a little, because I myself had to wait years before I could buy myself a computer at the age of 46.
Since Windows 98 was crashing all the time, in 2000, a friend introduced me to free software and GNU / Linux.
It wasn't as convivial as it is today, far from it, but I immediately saw the order and the logic.
Even though I didn't understand it, I saw that "that stuff" seemed meant to be understood.
Today, I am far from understanding everything, but I manage to install and configure my system. When I update my system, I find my bearings and above all, I can continue to use my favorite software as well as my hardware. Which was not always the case before ... GNU / Linux.
--
Bonjour Jay,
Merci pour ce beau témoignage encourageant !
Je peux te comprendre un peu, car j'ai moi-même dû attendre des années avant de pouvoir m'acheter un ordinateur à l'age de 46 ans.
Comme Windows 98 crashait tout le temps, en 2000, un ami m'a fait découvrir les logiciels libres et GNU/Linux.
Ce n'était pas aussi convivial qu'aujourd'hui, loin de là, mais j'y voyais tout de suite l'ordre et la logique.
Même si je n'y comprenais rien, j'ai vu que "ce truc-là" semblait fait pour être compris.
Aujourd'hui, je suis loin de tout comprendre, mais j'arrive à installer et à configurer mon système. Quand je mets mon système à jour, je retrouve mes repères et surtout, je peux continuer à utiliser mes logiciels favoris ainsi que mon matériel. Ce qui n'était pas toujours le cas avant... GNU/Linux.
Thanks!
I relate to your story so much man. Grew up on welfare in Detroit to a single mom. Loved computers. Got into U of M majoring in compsci but couldn't do the math prerequisites so I switched majors and ended up working minimum wage jobs in restaurants. I joined the Air Force at 30. I'm 33 now in an MS for Cybersecurity program. I've got my Sec+ and GIAC GCWN certs and planning on knocking out 3-4 more next year. Got my eyes set on the GPEN. Gonna be set once my enlistment is up. It's hard work, but also a great feeling.
Very inspirational. I'm glad you din't give up!
You've come a long way. I too am paving my way with old PCs nobody wants anymore and similarly suffer with bipolar disorder. You are an inspiration to us, Jay!
Generosity isn't born from privilege. Your empathy is obvious in how you educate us. Thank you
Great story and your passion shows up while you are teaching ! God bless you. I just started learning Linux 4 weeks ago and I love it. I am 49 years old and a non IT guy but I just love Linux. I have downloaded Ubuntu, Mint, CentOS, FossPop, Red Hat on my windows. I practice bashing on Virtual Machine along with your Video.
Thanks for sharing your story. Very inspiring.
Thank you Jay, for sharing your story in this manner; and for this channel. I'm fairly new to Linux, but I am absolutely loving it. The goal is to go for RHCSA in a few months, and your videos are my main video-lesson source. I scour the web and read/watch/practice everything, and I can honestly say your videos are the best for me.
It has been extremely helpful, and I am truly loving every step.
I appreciate you Jay. Thanks again.
Jay, Your life-story is an amazing story. You tenacity is amazing. Your videos are very, very helpful.
Congratulations on your life-success and your Linux-success. Keep up the good work.
Your life story reflect so much of what I am today. Keep moving sir and keep sharing your knowledge to the world. God bless you sir.
Great video man!!! Thank you! I really needed to hear this! Have a great day!! Time to dust myself off and get back at it.
Thank you for sharing your life story with us. You're story is very inspiring. I grew up in a tough neighborhood myself (South Bronx) during the 1980's so I can relate. There were abandoned buildings everywhere. Back then, the Bronx looked like a scene from World War 2. In my neighborhood, it seemed like everyone was smoking weed, drinking alcohol and snorting coke. The only person you could look up to was the drug dealer. But as you may know, drug dealers careers didn't last very long. I was also in and out of foster homes for most of my life. Sometimes, It seems like the world just constantly beats down on you. Theoretically, I should have been dead. But just like you, I persevered. I found that the key is either you can take those experiences and make them work for you, or they can work against you. I chose to make it work for me by starting my own online radio station and working in the court reporting business. One thing you have to remember, (as you said in your video) no matter how tough you have it, there is ALWAYS somebody that has it worse than you.
Hello Jay, I just came across your very inspiring video. Without going into much detail I can really identify with your struggles with ADD - I also struggled with it throughout my tech career. I thank God I did not give up in spite of my many failures.
Thank you Jay for sharing your stor, you are inspiring to all of us people who have struggled one way or another working in IT, love your videos, the way you explain makes the concepts easier. King regards from Mexico
I love personal and honest videos like this! You inspired me to do more with my homelab again 😃
I love this video. It gives me hope. I am 36 and finally in college for IT. I work in Seattle at facebook as a cook and want to get hired on at facebook in the IT department. I am not going to give up on that dream.
Watched this video when it first released, but never commented. I love your content and helps me in my current career!
Thanks for sharing your story. You are an inspiration...