I'm the guy in the video. Hi everyone. I just want to thank Mark for giving me the chance to share my struggles and story. It took a lot for me to do this, and open up, to talk about these things. If anyone has any questions feel free to ask. I hope the little bit of my story I spoke about will be able to inspire someone to stay strong and realize you can make it through anything whether it's drugs or family trauma. I also hope people realize you don't have to take any form of abuse, whether it's physical or mental, from people who are, or aren't, your blood. I had no choice but to live in that abusive environment as a little kid, but when I got kicked out at 14 it turned me into a survivor and turned me into the survivor I am today. No one gets to treat you like that. Not even the people who should have been protecting you. Sometimes you have to cut people out, and it may be hard to do, but it needs to be done. Don't let people control your well being. They aren't worth your time. Some things I'm proud of. Some things I'm ashamed of. But I'm still here. Stay strong and remember you are better than that. You are better than people who care nothing about you, and only about themselves. Let them live alone and in their bubble. There were some things I forgot to bring up but obviously you can't get it all out there when you are on the spot and nervous. I just hope my message lets people know you have to get rid of the heartache of toxic people , and you have to try as hard as you can to stay clean. Get up, brush off, and try again. Take it from me, drugs won't help in the long run. They made my life worse than it had to be. We aren't perfect and we don't have to be. Thank you Mark. Thank you SWU family. Stay strong.
"It taught me how NOT to be" I hear this. Less than 10 minutes in and I can tell you - the peer-space you've created by sharing your story will resonate far further than you'll ever know. Well done, Mike, very well done.
@@HostileMike Your family su-ucks, but you already know that. I think you should forgive yourself for all the things you regret, bc then you won't care when your mom brings up every little thing she can think of to wreck you. You should ask her why she hated her mother, bc it might give you some insight as to why she is so nasty to you. Mike, there is nothing you could have done to deserve the way your parents treated you. If they were disciplining you, you would know what you did and the punishment would make sense. Some men think kicking the shit out of their sons is how to make them tough, which is ridiculous. Abuse begets abuse, so if you have broken that cycle, then you deserve a lot more credit than you give yourself. Your daughter sounds wonderful. Honestly, I just want to hug you because I can tell you are still having a hard time. It's okay. Hard times come and go, and this might sound totally foreign to you, but you have total control over how you react to anything that is thrown your way. It may take some practice, a little discipline, and even some therapy, but it's worth it. You don't have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders, and it's okay if you stay clean for you first, bc if you are not okay you cannot be there for anyone else. I see you are struggling, so if you relapse...get your ass into the methadone program. My husband has been in it 18 years, and without he'd be doing time. It saved his life, and it might save yours too. I send you my best love and support, from my heart to yours. I expect nothing in return...well, maybe a follow up in a year or so. Oh, and be careful what you wish for. If you get money you will see all the OTHER problems you have. Lol. Cheers!
Well done Mike. It breaks my heart to know that the sweet kid that I had computer class with sophomore year was going through all of this at home. You were always a kind and caring person anytime I talked to you I had no idea that this was happening. You are truly inspiring and such a great role model for your daughter. This interview only scratched the surface of what a great guy you are and I hope Mark has you on again so that you can share more about your life now. Also for the trolls saying that he needs to take accountability for his actions towards his parents no the hell he does not. He has taken accountability for the drug use and anything bad he has done in his life after he left his parents but put yourself in his shoes at 14 and getting beat and mentally abused by the people that are supposed to love you the most! He owes them nothing. I think most of you wouldn’t be able to be half of the human that he now is to his daughter, girlfriend and friends. For everything Mike has been through it is pretty amazing that he is still standing and still fighting❤
Thank you so very much my friend. That means so much to me. And you are right, I owe them nothing. But haters are gonna hate. No big deal. They don't even know me. Lol. You do. My friends do. Those are the people who matter. Thank you again❤❤❤
I was touched by your story and especially by your commitment to your daughter. You've broken the cycle of terrible abuse in your family. Kudos for that and for staying clean.
You can tell this guy is a good empathetic person, although what he went through was horrid he has so much to give and as he said knows what not to be. Would be honoured to have a friend like this guy
It will never fail to amaze me how warm, open and kind hearted some people are, even after years of trauma and adversity. Mike, you are a shining light. Best wishes to you and your daughter.
Hello. I'm the guy in the video. Thank you for the positivity my friend. I appreciate it very much. I'm just trying to do the best I can in this crazy world
@@HostileMike You deserve so much positivity, already you have proven how strong and determined and loving you are. You are doing a great job, believe in yourself. Know that you are capable of whatever you put your mind to.
@@888alpmaybe he was a disappointment to his father and his mother hates him too so maybe he is to blame for all his troubles. It is not easy trying to parent a hopeless child, we only have his side of the story. As bad as he was treated it didn't deter him from accepting money from them.
@@HostileMike I give you ALLOT of credit Mike~ you are a resilient, amazing person to have been dealt the terrible cards you were and be as pleasant and grounded as you are. Keep going!!! Everyday won't be good. but if we find one good thing in everyday..we will be ahead of the game. Bless you and ypur daughter as well 🙏🙏
Listened to this in it's entirety today. I have so much to say, but the most important thing I need to acknowledge is how absolutely lucky his daughter is to have him. A good father is beyond priceless. I didn't have one and I did not choose a good one for my daughter. I have much respect for you, man.
Thank you Mike! This is Eve from CT. I can relate to your story and your upbringing here in CT. It’s difficult to survive here without a lot of money! Very expensive place to live. God bless you, Raye, and your girlfriend. Sounds like you have made a wonderful family for yourself. All my love & light to you🙏🏻😊
Thank you very much for that my friend. My friends will always be closer to me than my blood. And that is ok with me. My daughter is the only blood family member I need. ❤️
Right?!?!?! I have built up my tool collection over the years just so I can work on my car myself. And yes, I have figured out how to do all the repairs by watching RUclips😂😂😂 thank you!!❤
I met Mike when he moved to North Branford CT High School. We weren't best friends, more or less just knew each other. I didn't know any of this. This is heart breaking. We now talk on Facebook here and there. I had no idea Mike you went through all this. You were always a stand up guy. Always looking out for others. Glad you turned out the way you did. Stand up guy. Great father. Great boyfriend. If ever you need to vent, you can always reach out to chat. -John Fiorillo-
Mike, I've been watching this channel for less than a year. Listening to stories like yours has truly made me a better parent. Thank You for sharing your story. Godspeed.
There's an idea that goes somewhat like this: you, as an adult, are who you needed as a child. Based off of this interview, Mike seems to fit this quite well. Keep going, Mike!
Wow! Mike. Im so impressed with your strength and resiliency. Your devotion to your daughter. You are a good man. Who has had a hard life that you didnot in any way, deserve. You have empathy. So important. Im glad you have found family in your circle of friends. Blood does not make someone family. And, as we all know, you cant choose family. Stay strong. Good luck to you! 🙂
Man this hit me hard .. so much respect for this guy for changing his life around and STAYING clean for his daughter .. as a single father myself , my son is my biggest motivation and discipline, and his daughter is the same for him .. this dude deserves a hug and a lot of money
Aww lol. I appreciate the kind words my friend. I'm just glad my daughter is ok and in my life. That little girl is my everything. You have a child. I'm sure you know what I'm talking about. Its amazing how a kid can really put things into perspective. Thanks my friend ❤️❤️
You did not deserve to be treated like that. I’m so sorry! I’m so glad you were able to get clean and be there for your daughter. You are so strong, see the dysfunction, have boundaries. You are trying so hard to break the cycle! You are an amazing human!
It is a miracle that people like Mike are able to live any kind of "normal" life after enduring the horrible abuse and torture they were subjected to as children. He is extraordinarily strong. I am thrilled for him that he has a daughter whom he loves.
Mike I’m also a member of the shitty family club. My parents were shit too and I was beaten almost daily, told I was worthless, useless, stupid, etc. I got out at 17 and never looked back. I’m 50 today and while I’m pretty fucked up mentally, I have a solid career and am more or less making it in life. Keep going man.
I am so glad for you my friend. I'm following your footsteps. I will not look back. I'm better off without them. I'm glad you were able to relate with the little piece of my story. Sometimes we have to do what's best for us no matter what. Stay strong my friend and thank you for the comment ❤️... And by the way I love your picture for your channel. I love the trailer Park Boys!!
@@HostileMikeahh a man of culture I see. lol…TPB are the best. I love that fucking show so much. I’m not sure how long ago your interview was but I hope you’re still doing well man. Family is so important to our development as adults. I think what helped me more than anything was joining the military. I guess I found family there that I didn’t have growing up. But more than that; it gave me the GI bill so I could get more education and that helped me climb higher professionally. I definitely wouldn’t recommend the military to anyone but it did help me. Anyway Mike, hope you and your daughter are thriving.
@@MB-gz1ji trailer Park Boys is definitely my favorite show of all time. My interview was about 2 months ago and things are still good. Even better actually. Lol. The car with no heat is finally gone because my boss helped me get another one! Me and my girlfriend and my daughter are all happy and things are going very good. It was really nice meeting you man and I'm glad you commented
Hi Mike: I am watching your video, then again, then again and again. I want to learn from you to stay strong and not to turn away from myself. You are GENTLE MIKE (uh uh, not Hostile Mike). The reason for me that your story is so special is you are all of us who are hurt and shamed and abandoned in childhood, all of us. When you talk about your daughter I see pure and love. I am working towards the same direction with my children. Your words in the comment section are copied in my STRENGTH & SELF CARE notebook. Stay the light as you are. Thank you so much for sharing your story.
Aww thank you! It means a lot to me to hear you say that! I really appreciate it! I'm glad my story has helped people. That's what it's all about. My life today is a lot better. I have people who love me around me and that's all I need. Stay strong my friend. You can do it. Just stay strong ❤
@@HostileMike thank you for your reply. I’m 56 and just started my journey of self-discovery and recovery. ❤️🩹 you speak clearly and truthfully without the from-frou. I learn from you so continue to shine on. Life is often scary and not easy where is my next check, I’m still here fighting and living after 55 years. ✊🏻🧠🌈👵🏻🥰🙏🏻
I really can empathize with you. I always remind myself that you can’t pick your family but you can pick your friends and sometimes our friends are more family then the blood we were born into. Continue to stay strong and on the right path. I can tell you are a good person and have so much love for your daughter. Best wishes to you. 💜
Hi Mike. It's your fb friend Connie here. This is where I met you and just want you to know how much I am blessed to know you. I only wish I could have been in your life all those years ago. I lost my baby son at birth and I had so much love to give. So proud of you 💕
I really appreciate that my friend! I am SO sorry about your child. I cant even imagine. Im glad we met and thank you again for your kind words. I appreciate it so much❤
Classic example on why people should have to earn the right to have and raise children - my heart goes out to you Mike and I hope life gives you everything you should have had growing up
I agree with you 100%.. I don't wanna sound sappy but the fact I have a daughter and girlfriend that love me like they do makes me rich. Thank you my friend ❤️❤️
It's amazing how strong and levelheaded Mike is, considering the horrific child abuse he endured at the hands of a violent father. Nor did he receive any love or protection from his mother. He's a survivor. I hope he gets a great job he loves, that pays him his worth. He appears to be an intelligent guy and I wish him the best.
Dude, you are the bravest man I’ve ever met. You are a good father please know that please know that the steps you took to protect your daughter is something every man should put first in his life from one father to another. You are a good father please continue to think of your daughter firstand keep the monkey in that cage where belongs try hard but no you have a world full of people rooting for you
Mike, I hope you take in all the admiration, respect, empathy coming from the comments. I hope you see just what an inspiration you are. I noticed a great frustration and sadness about your financial situation. As sensitive and insightful as you are there is a sense of being weighed down about you. Understandable given all you've been through but it seems you are due for a shift in circumstances. This video being a year or so old, maybe that shift has happened. I so hope so. Mike you deserve to feel lighter. I'll say to you, what I hope a friend has already suggested to you. That is, while you are vigilant to not mess up, which requires tremendous on-going strength, I think you need to start giving to yourself. Please if not already started, begin to forgive yourself for the times you did not do better for yourself. You deserve all good things, but most of all learn to love yourself. If you can do this, you'll feel lighter, more able to know your circumstances will no doubt change. Be ready for good things to take hold, by coming to know you absolutely deserve joy, stability, a sense of higher purpose, and inner peace. You know how to survive especially in turmoil, now start trusting yourself to function well when things go well. Apply your immense inner strength to focusing on you and your needs. Nurture Mike. Take care of Mike. Be extra kind to Mike. You are so worth it friend. Feel it solidly in your heart. Learn to really relax. You are still young. As best you can, treat yourself kindly and respectfully. If you can feel your enormous worth deeply, your world changes. And let some of the sadness for yourself express in tears if you feel sad sometimes. Give yourself time just for you. You are wonderful, believe me, Mike. I am rooting for you!!
Thank you for commenting. Im sorry i just saw this now. It made my morning to see this comment. Im still struggling but doing good. Im happy to say i have a different car and have heat in it! Lol. Im still clean, working and moving forward. No matter how hard it is. I promised myself that i would give my daughter a different life than mine and I'm keeping that promise. No matter the obstacles. I just love her unconditionally and continue to do so. I REALLY appreciate your comment. I try to come back here every few months and check the comments so again, thank you for commenting. If you want to keep up on how I'm doing i post videos to my RUclips channel every now and then. You can absolutely go and watch them. It was great seeing this comment and thank you for starting my day off on a positive note my friend. Thank you from all of my heart ❤❤
Mike you seem like such a wonderful person and father after all the obstacles life has handed you. I wish you well, keep up your sobriety for yourself and your daughter.
I am SO impressed by you! You broke the cycle for your daughter. Life is HARD. Life is NOT FAIR. It's how you react to it that makes all the difference. You are a warrior. Always take the high road. Godspeed to you always.
Mike, ya remind me of a lot of kids I used to teach in high school. No one knew what they were going through, but I suspected. Your empathy for others and your wisdom from what you endured would make you a good teacher. Whatever you do, you deserve some dignity and I think you're on the right path.
I appreciate that very much friend. Things are very much good today. I am happy. My daughter is happy. My girlfriend is happy. I have people who love and care about me with me and that's what matters most. Thank you for the comment my friend❤
I can relate to some parts of your traumatic childhood. You are a survivor and a warrior, you should be proud of yourself. I had my son at 19 and he saved my life too. Thanks for sharing your story.
I've always said i had a great childhood. Watching SWU videos has definitely reaffirmed that. I feel so sorry for all the people who had terrible childhoods and have trauma from it. There are so many bad people out there. And so many good people being abused by them.
@@HostileMike you've done a remarkable job at putting your life back on track. Not many people can accomplish this when they've been exposed to such toxic people their whole lives. Best of luck to you!
Thank you for your offering of the story of your abuse.And Mark Liata you are a genius film maker photographer and your commitment to telling the stories of these tortured souls.I have lived my entire life not understanding why I was subjected to abuse and disappointment my entire life brought on by my family and ex husband.i have repeated a cycle of putting myself in thr line if fire by my mother my own sisters and ex .I am 66 years old and finally took a Deep breath and thought if hope after Clark Frederick's video .I plan to start changing my life at 66 because I will not remain a victim any longer . This revelation came to me on the eve of my 5th cancer surgery and I had completely given up.god bless everyone involved in this amazing mission your on Mark
I related to your story big time concerning the drug use and having to get better for the babies. Its hard to carry the shame knowing drugs had my ass so bad. The love for your children is there but the grip of addiction is insidious. I am so glad my kids don't recall my shenanigans when i was using. Been clean for 7 years now and dont miss the chaos at all. Anyway you are such a strong person Mike ! Thanks for telling your story !
Honesty will set you free. I'm glad you got all this off your shoulders man!! WE ALL fuck up. When you fall down, it doesn't matter how many times, it matters that you ALWAYS get back up, and you have man!! Good on you. You're amazing!!
Hey Mike, Its Jackie C...so proud of you buddy. I went through a lot of similar crap that you went through(minus the extreme aspect of the child abuse). For some reason, as affluent as it is..North Haven is a cesspool of trauma. It still is...I'm still here..ugh. so proud of you and proud of the father you've become. Rae and Cassie are so lucky to have you.❤
Aww thank you! I appreciate that. North Haven will always be home but I don't like going there unless I have to. Its funny, sometimes when I'm down that way I'll drive by the old house and I automatically remember everything. I call it "the house of horrors".. lol.. Thank you for the kind words❤❤
@@HostileMike Its a wonderful town at first glance..and it will probably always be my home...but damn if it doesnt just find a way to fuck you. I went through the addiction issues, bullying, homelessness..and I know lots of other NH alums who did the same. My first love, Chris Vars, ended up dying from his addiction, which was definitely caused by having a pill popping mom and a drunk dad. I'll never get over that loss. But there are so many others whom we all have lost in NH due to the toxic atmosphere. There are a good group of us who can say we survived North Haven. So proud of you my friend, and proud of your courage in telling your story. More people need to speak out to normalize those of us who have been through deep trauma and made it out the other side as better people than we were when we started. Theres something powerful about being a human that can survive all of that, and still thrive as a caring, loving, hard working person. Luv ya buddy❤
@@mycatiswaysmarterthanmosto8500 it sucks because if I get a message from someone I haven't talked to in a while I immediately think someone else is gone. I have lost so many friends to addiction I can't even count. Alot of them from North Haven. All I know is if I stay away from heroin and cocaine I'll be ok. I have to stay on track for my kid. For Cass. Some days are easier than others and we may struggle and live paycheck to paycheck but the bills are paid, there's food in the fridge and I have a job I've been at for almost 5 years now. Things are ok. And I'll die before I let that go away❤️❤️
Great interview. Resonated with me. My background nowhere near as bad - only bouts of violence at home and got out pronto. But like he said in the interview, adversity and making your own strong decisions make you a survivor. Finding someone to spend your life with his a godsend. Wish I hadn't had to constantly struggle, but too old to change that now😂 Much love from Spain.
It's a strange thing to say that yours is probably my 'favourite " of these interviews but I felt so much of what you said. I too cut my family because I was just done with them, I couldn't stay in education as life had left me with a brain that couldnt take in anything, consequently I know that worry of living month to month and the frustration that I will not be able to leave my daughter anything to help her when I'm gone. Sending from the UK a big fluffy cloud of love and respect and all good things to you,your girlfriend and your daughter. Look up one sunny day and you'll see it! Best wishes xxx
Thank you. I appreciate that. And. I'm sorry that you had to cut them out. Its a horrible feeling having to cut out family but when you think about it in the long run, you have to do what's best for you. Whether they are blood or not. Cutting out everyone made my life so much less hectic. And I'll take that over the games any day. Stay strong my friend. ❤❤
A good man has risen above awful circumstances. Keep up the good work and remember that there is lots of good in the world. You were born to share this story.
It’s Awful when you feel like you Fail in life because the way you were raised! But just like he said…. He learned what NOT to do!!!! That right there is the Biggest accomplishment you can had ever did! Keep up the good job and Believe in yourself!!!!
Thank you for the compliment and for commenting! I really appreciate it. All i do is make sure daughter never experiences what i did. Im proud to say she's doing good and I'm continuing to provide a good life for her. Thanks again my friend
I want to hug Mike. I hate when I know or hear about neglectful parents. I remember being a kid and having a boyfriend who had it rough. I hope he never committed suicide. ☹
Well thank you for the kind words. I really appreciate that very much. When I was younger I maybe thought about it a little bit but not much. I have a daughter I need to be here for. So it's not even a thought these days❤️
My heart is bleeding for this wonderful man. He has been through so much and has come out clean! Amen on having children to be your drive to change and be the better person! ❤
Some families are just toxic, i never had it as bad as Mike did, but i am estranged from all my "blood relatives". They are just self-obsessed and deceitful. I suffer from mental health issues, and once when i had an in-patient stay in hospital, i spoke to a really good psychologist. We did a few sessions with me describing my life till then from as far back a i could remember. She mentioned to me afterwards that i did the best thing in leaving them behind, i didn't need to be told that anyway. However it just showed that she knew my illness would be far, far worse with such toxic people. I wish Mike the best of luck, he is worth a million times more than the scum that treated him so bad.
Thank you my friend and I am glad you broke away. It's not easy. But in the end we have to do what's best for us regardless of blood. I know deep down stepping away from them was the best thing for me. My life was filled with heartache and sorrow with them in it. And now it's not. So I made the right decision. Stay strong man. You are doing the right thing. All my mental health problems have gotten so much better to deal with now that they are gone. So keep it up. Do what's best for you. Thank you for your comment my friend ❤️
@@HostileMike Hi Mike, thank you very much for your reply. You are so correct, some people are lucky with families that are supportive and loving. However there are many people that are not so blessed, my childhood was nowhere near as dark as yours, however it's only in adulthood you can look back, and realise things that shouldn't have happened. You could so easily have gone down a different path, the reason you have such a cool daughter is you frankly. What she has taken in and learnt is that despite a long, long list of issues, you put her first. I wish you had never had to go through any of those things, but i am very glad you're alive, and you are an example for many people. With your start in life, that is one heck of an achievement, i hope things get easier financially for you guys too. Take care my friend ❤
Mike, sending you and your daughter much Love and Healing❤️🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏❤️ Remember Mike, there can be great value in being the black sheep. I’m sure that you have a much greater sense of self than the others in your family. You were the one that, thankfully, got away❤️. Congrats on your sobriety also❤️❤️LOVE ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Mike needs many kudos, as a former CPS social worker, that he checked this man’s background and immediately went to court to protect his daughter from a sex offender. My heart breaks for him b/c he never had a childhood that made sense to a child.
I immediately went to the court house and handled it. It took me 3 years to keep him away for good but as soon as I found out he was gone ever since. I'll do whatever I have to to keep her safe ❤❤
FOR THE POOR FOUNDATION, HE IS DOING AMAZINGLY WELL. GOT A GOOD HEAD ON HIS SHOULDERS. THE BEST TO HIM. LOVE IS HIS LEGACY TO HIS DAUGHTER. MORE IMPORTANT THAN MONEY. HUGZ TO HIM 🥰🥰🥰
Hi Mike, (Interviewee) I noticed you said a few times that you were a "softy". I can relate to that. It took me many, many years to even try to understand what that meant. What I found was that there is an Emotional Intelligence. Maybe you already know the phrase. Anyways, once I understood that about myself I was able to have another level peace inside myself. There are a lot of highly sensitive people out in this world. I am not going to shoot rainbows in your butt, but... sensitive people can be more deeply moved by beauty, can love others deeply and have a complex, but deep rich life. Peace to you friend. - Keven
You did a great job. Its brave of you to speak about your story. That takes alot.. I wish you well and i love "be kind to others that are kind to you"....Take care of yourself and thank yo so much for sharing. You're right though, sometimes you have to cut someone out of your life to be mentally healthy. But I still had to work through those resentful feelings...thank you...wish you and your daughter well.💙🌎
Great interview. Thank you to Mike for opening up and telling his story. I , personally found it interesting how Mike has broken the family abuse cycle and his family is as normal as can be with himself, his girlfriend and his daughter. ❤
Some of us were gifted awful humans as parents. Lucky we are better than that! When you start choosing who you keep in your universe you get your power back. Wishing you a fabulous future Mike.
Thank you Mike for sharing your story. It's amazing you are the kind and loving person you are after all you've been through. You are blessed with a sweet and loving daughter. You are blessed with a great girlfriend. And they are bleeding with an amazing dad and boyfriend. I wish you peace and happiness.
Mike, I feel for you. I struggle to pay bills and to find employment that will take me somewhere better, but I was fortunate to have parents and an entire family of kind and supportive people. Please give yourself some praise for all the good you’ve done without having that as an example. As others have said, your love for your daughter is a powerful force. It sounds like it comes back to you tenfold. For what my opinion is worth, I think from this interview that you have your head and heart in the right place.
I think your such a sweet guy, my son is 40 so my heart is so sad for you! You have to close that door now Mike! I don’t speak to any of my family also, thank you for your story!!❤
If you are reading this there’s a reason……No matter how good or bad you have it,wake up each day thankful for your life.Someone somewhere else is desperately fighting for theirs ❤️🇧🇸
Be good to the people that are good to you how true that statement is. Mike focused on your daughter, your job and your well-being and you will make it you’ve already been threw hell and back stay clean, and life will give you blessings. I wish you peace, happiness and prosperity And love. ❤
Man, so often i hear about ppl on these SWU interviews say that their friends held/backed them up. Just want to acknowledge all the non blood relatives that keep us ALL going. You make a difference. It would be cool to hear some interviews of ppl that got great cards to play in this Life who shared their good fortune, resources to help others! These kinds of stories would be very inspirational. I mean, ppl who did good and just dropped it in the Collective Well of Humanity.❤ Thanks for your story Buddy, you remind me a lot of a fam member. Be safe and STAY strong. Sober first n last!❤😊
Thank you my friend. Like I said, my friends are my family. And I have the most important blood relative by my side. My daughter. And that's who is most important out of them all. ❤❤
I would really love and appreciate an interview with someone who broke into very demanding career (IT/Tech/Medicine/Architecture) in their late years (30s/40s/50s).
Very cool guy. Easy and enjoyable to listen to. Don´t beat yourself up over the overdose. Everyone makes mistakes and you learned from it and grew from it. Best of luck to you.
Thank you my friend! I really appreciate that. I am in a much better place today. I have everyone I love by my side and I am so very happy. Thank you again. Much appreciated ❤❤
Some of the comments shredding this man is sick and mean. SWU gives an opportunity for someone to tell their story, it's not a f'g trial or debate where you need to hear the other side. He stopped the cycle of abuse with his own child and prevents any harm towards her which includes his own family. Keep the faith Mike.
Thank you very much for your comment my friend. The trolls will be trolls. There are honestly only like 5% troll comments on here so there are a lot more of the positive ones. It doesn't bother me. I'm happy today. Thank you very much for your kind words and I really appreciate it so very much. ❤❤
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I'm the guy in the video. Hi everyone. I just want to thank Mark for giving me the chance to share my struggles and story. It took a lot for me to do this, and open up, to talk about these things. If anyone has any questions feel free to ask. I hope the little bit of my story I spoke about will be able to inspire someone to stay strong and realize you can make it through anything whether it's drugs or family trauma. I also hope people realize you don't have to take any form of abuse, whether it's physical or mental, from people who are, or aren't, your blood. I had no choice but to live in that abusive environment as a little kid, but when I got kicked out at 14 it turned me into a survivor and turned me into the survivor I am today. No one gets to treat you like that. Not even the people who should have been protecting you. Sometimes you have to cut people out, and it may be hard to do, but it needs to be done. Don't let people control your well being. They aren't worth your time. Some things I'm proud of. Some things I'm ashamed of. But I'm still here. Stay strong and remember you are better than that. You are better than people who care nothing about you, and only about themselves. Let them live alone and in their bubble. There were some things I forgot to bring up but obviously you can't get it all out there when you are on the spot and nervous. I just hope my message lets people know you have to get rid of the heartache of toxic people , and you have to try as hard as you can to stay clean. Get up, brush off, and try again. Take it from me, drugs won't help in the long run. They made my life worse than it had to be. We aren't perfect and we don't have to be. Thank you Mark. Thank you SWU family. Stay strong.
Good luck to you. Thanks for telling your story.
Thank you Mike.
😮m.e.
You're breaking the cycle Mike, you are a loving, nurturing, protective Dad to your daughter. ❤❤❤
You say you're a softie but you're strong as hell Mike. Keep enjoying life and the good people around you and everything will be fine.
"It taught me how NOT to be" I hear this. Less than 10 minutes in and I can tell you - the peer-space you've created by sharing your story will resonate far further than you'll ever know. Well done, Mike, very well done.
Thank you my friend. I really appreciate that. Its been rough but I'll make it. I have to. For my daughter. For my girlfriend. For the people I love❤
@@HostileMike Your family su-ucks, but you already know that. I think you should forgive yourself for all the things you regret, bc then you won't care when your mom brings up every little thing she can think of to wreck you. You should ask her why she hated her mother, bc it might give you some insight as to why she is so nasty to you.
Mike, there is nothing you could have done to deserve the way your parents treated you. If they were disciplining you, you would know what you did and the punishment would make sense. Some men think kicking the shit out of their sons is how to make them tough, which is ridiculous. Abuse begets abuse, so if you have broken that cycle, then you deserve a lot more credit than you give yourself. Your daughter sounds wonderful.
Honestly, I just want to hug you because I can tell you are still having a hard time. It's okay. Hard times come and go, and this might sound totally foreign to you, but you have total control over how you react to anything that is thrown your way. It may take some practice, a little discipline, and even some therapy, but it's worth it.
You don't have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders, and it's okay if you stay clean for you first, bc if you are not okay you cannot be there for anyone else. I see you are struggling, so if you relapse...get your ass into the methadone program. My husband has been in it 18 years, and without he'd be doing time. It saved his life, and it might save yours too.
I send you my best love and support, from my heart to yours. I expect nothing in return...well, maybe a follow up in a year or so. Oh, and be careful what you wish for. If you get money you will see all the OTHER problems you have. Lol. Cheers!
Everclear- Father of Mine.
Well done Mike. It breaks my heart to know that the sweet kid that I had computer class with sophomore year was going through all of this at home. You were always a kind and caring person anytime I talked to you I had no idea that this was happening. You are truly inspiring and such a great role model for your daughter. This interview only scratched the surface of what a great guy you are and I hope Mark has you on again so that you can share more about your life now. Also for the trolls saying that he needs to take accountability for his actions towards his parents no the hell he does not. He has taken accountability for the drug use and anything bad he has done in his life after he left his parents but put yourself in his shoes at 14 and getting beat and mentally abused by the people that are supposed to love you the most! He owes them nothing. I think most of you wouldn’t be able to be half of the human that he now is to his daughter, girlfriend and friends. For everything Mike has been through it is pretty amazing that he is still standing and still fighting❤
Thank you so very much my friend. That means so much to me. And you are right, I owe them nothing. But haters are gonna hate. No big deal. They don't even know me. Lol. You do. My friends do. Those are the people who matter. Thank you again❤❤❤
Every single video has the off comment or comments from the village idiots who only thrive by trying to create chaos.
Agreed.
You good friend 👍❤️
@@bittenrevell3977 thank you my friend ❤️
I was touched by your story and especially by your commitment to your daughter. You've broken the cycle of terrible abuse in your family. Kudos for that and for staying clean.
Thank you my friend. I really appreciate that. My daughter is my everything and all I can do is try to do the best I can for her. ❤️
Nothing else matters...❤
@@lisakuntzman7017 ❤️❤️❤️
" Now I'm a grown man
With a child of my own
And I swear, I'll never let her know
All the pain I have known "
You can tell this guy is a good empathetic person, although what he went through was horrid he has so much to give and as he said knows what not to be. Would be honoured to have a friend like this guy
Thank you. I appreciate that very much
@@HostileMike my gaming name is Hostile btw :) Wish u all the best 🙏🏼
@@bunnyman2966 nice! I got my nickname from a radio station! Lol. Thank you my friend ❤️
I'm so proud of you. Stay strong 💪
@@sargentp5529thank you❤❤
It will never fail to amaze me how warm, open and kind hearted some people are, even after years of trauma and adversity. Mike, you are a shining light. Best wishes to you and your daughter.
Thank you very much❤️❤️
You dont need to leave money for your daughter. You have given her the best thing in life already, a father who loves and supports her.
Damn right!! I will protect this child for the rest of my life. Thank you for the kind words❤❤
This is a good man and I’m so sad anyone ever abused him when he was young. The world is so cruel and this man rose above his trauma.
Hello. I'm the guy in the video. Thank you for the positivity my friend. I appreciate it very much. I'm just trying to do the best I can in this crazy world
@@HostileMike Our parents are suppose to look after us, not torture us.. It’s a very cruel world.
@@HostileMike You deserve so much positivity, already you have proven how strong and determined and loving you are. You are doing a great job, believe in yourself. Know that you are capable of whatever you put your mind to.
@@888alpmaybe he was a disappointment to his father and his mother hates him too so maybe he is to blame for all his troubles. It is not easy trying to parent a hopeless child, we only have his side of the story. As bad as he was treated it didn't deter him from accepting money from them.
@@mcluvin65I can't wait to share your comment so we can all laugh at how ridiculous it is😂😂😂😂
Mike's story is truly heart wrenching...He seems like such a nice person. Bless him🙏
Thank you for the kind words. I really appreciate that. And I'm doing ok. Just trying to keep moving forward ❤
@@HostileMike I give you ALLOT of credit Mike~ you are a resilient, amazing person to have been dealt the terrible cards you were and be as pleasant and grounded as you are. Keep going!!! Everyday won't be good. but if we find one good thing in everyday..we will be ahead of the game. Bless you and ypur daughter as well 🙏🙏
@@lisakrieg3076thank you so very much ❤❤
Now this is a good father. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about trying your hardest to better every day for them. Kudos Mike!
Thank you for the compliment my friend! Much appreciated. Im still here. Still hanging in there. 😊
Mike still remains with a warm heart after the horrific life he was dealt.
God bless him
Listened to this in it's entirety today.
I have so much to say, but the most important thing I need to acknowledge is how absolutely lucky his daughter is to have him. A good father is beyond priceless.
I didn't have one and I did not choose a good one for my daughter.
I have much respect for you, man.
Thank you very much. That makes me feel like I'm on the right track. Lol. I appreciate it❤️❤️
Thank you Mike! This is Eve from CT. I can relate to your story and your upbringing here in CT. It’s difficult to survive here without a lot of money! Very expensive place to live. God bless you, Raye, and your girlfriend. Sounds like you have made a wonderful family for yourself. All my love & light to you🙏🏻😊
Thank you my friend. I actually moved to Massachusetts about 13 years ago. But CT is SOO expensive for sure
You, sir, are amazing! Truly a good man from a crappy family. And family is who loves you not blood. Great heartwarming story
Thank you very much for that my friend. My friends will always be closer to me than my blood. And that is ok with me. My daughter is the only blood family member I need. ❤️
@@HostileMike ❤️
My beautiful older sister said to me once, blood doesn’t always make family but love does. I live by that now ❤❤ much love and many blessings
@@gratefulgram Amen, sister
Can someone who lives in the area go help Mike fix his heater core? That would be a nice thing to do.
So impressed with your strength and ability to overcome. Love and light to you and your daughter!!!!
Thank you so very much ❤️❤️
Great interview, Mike. I'm a self-made mechanic as well. Amazing how much a person can learn to do by watching YT videos. Wishing you all the best. 🍀
Right?!?!?! I have built up my tool collection over the years just so I can work on my car myself. And yes, I have figured out how to do all the repairs by watching RUclips😂😂😂 thank you!!❤
I met Mike when he moved to North Branford CT High School. We weren't best friends, more or less just knew each other. I didn't know any of this. This is heart breaking. We now talk on Facebook here and there. I had no idea Mike you went through all this. You were always a stand up guy. Always looking out for others. Glad you turned out the way you did. Stand up guy. Great father. Great boyfriend. If ever you need to vent, you can always reach out to chat.
-John Fiorillo-
Thank you buddy! I appreciate this. And same goes to you. If you ever need me you know where to find me brother. Thank you💗💗💗💗
Mike, I've been watching this channel for less than a year. Listening to stories like yours has truly made me a better parent. Thank You for sharing your story. Godspeed.
Thank you my friend ❤️😊
There's an idea that goes somewhat like this: you, as an adult, are who you needed as a child.
Based off of this interview, Mike seems to fit this quite well. Keep going, Mike!
Thank you very much for the kind words. I appreciate it ❤❤
Wow! Mike. Im so impressed with your strength and resiliency. Your devotion to your daughter. You are a good man. Who has had a hard life that you didnot in any way, deserve. You have empathy. So important. Im glad you have found family in your circle of friends. Blood does not make someone family. And, as we all know, you cant choose family. Stay strong. Good luck to you! 🙂
Man this hit me hard .. so much respect for this guy for changing his life around and STAYING clean for his daughter .. as a single father myself , my son is my biggest motivation and discipline, and his daughter is the same for him .. this dude deserves a hug and a lot of money
Aww lol. I appreciate the kind words my friend. I'm just glad my daughter is ok and in my life. That little girl is my everything. You have a child. I'm sure you know what I'm talking about. Its amazing how a kid can really put things into perspective. Thanks my friend ❤️❤️
You did not deserve to be treated like that. I’m so sorry! I’m so glad you were able to get clean and be there for your daughter. You are so strong, see the dysfunction, have boundaries. You are trying so hard to break the cycle! You are an amazing human!
Thank you. I appreciate that alot my friend ❤️❤️
It is a miracle that people like Mike are able to live any kind of "normal" life after enduring the horrible abuse and torture they were subjected to as children. He is extraordinarily strong. I am thrilled for him that he has a daughter whom he loves.
Thank you. Like I said, growing up I just knew how I was being treated was wrong. So it resonates with how I am today.
Mike I’m also a member of the shitty family club. My parents were shit too and I was beaten almost daily, told I was worthless, useless, stupid, etc. I got out at 17 and never looked back. I’m 50 today and while I’m pretty fucked up mentally, I have a solid career and am more or less making it in life. Keep going man.
I am so glad for you my friend. I'm following your footsteps. I will not look back. I'm better off without them. I'm glad you were able to relate with the little piece of my story. Sometimes we have to do what's best for us no matter what. Stay strong my friend and thank you for the comment ❤️... And by the way I love your picture for your channel. I love the trailer Park Boys!!
@@HostileMikeahh a man of culture I see. lol…TPB are the best. I love that fucking show so much. I’m not sure how long ago your interview was but I hope you’re still doing well man. Family is so important to our development as adults. I think what helped me more than anything was joining the military. I guess I found family there that I didn’t have growing up. But more than that; it gave me the GI bill so I could get more education and that helped me climb higher professionally. I definitely wouldn’t recommend the military to anyone but it did help me. Anyway Mike, hope you and your daughter are thriving.
@@MB-gz1ji trailer Park Boys is definitely my favorite show of all time. My interview was about 2 months ago and things are still good. Even better actually. Lol. The car with no heat is finally gone because my boss helped me get another one! Me and my girlfriend and my daughter are all happy and things are going very good. It was really nice meeting you man and I'm glad you commented
Mike this video shows who you are. You've always been a great guy. Thanks for opening up
Thank you very much my friend. I truly appreciate the kind words❤️
You are very welcome.
Hi Mike: I am watching your video, then again, then again and again. I want to learn from you to stay strong and not to turn away from myself. You are GENTLE MIKE (uh uh, not Hostile Mike). The reason for me that your story is so special is you are all of us who are hurt and shamed and abandoned in childhood, all of us. When you talk about your daughter I see pure and love. I am working towards the same direction with my children. Your words in the comment section are copied in my STRENGTH & SELF CARE notebook. Stay the light as you are. Thank you so much for sharing your story.
Aww thank you! It means a lot to me to hear you say that! I really appreciate it! I'm glad my story has helped people. That's what it's all about. My life today is a lot better. I have people who love me around me and that's all I need. Stay strong my friend. You can do it. Just stay strong ❤
@@HostileMike thank you for your reply. I’m 56 and just started my journey of self-discovery and recovery. ❤️🩹 you speak clearly and truthfully without the from-frou. I learn from you so continue to shine on. Life is often scary and not easy where is my next check, I’m still here fighting and living after 55 years. ✊🏻🧠🌈👵🏻🥰🙏🏻
@@edamameedamame1202 you can do it. Just stay strong. I truly am glad my story helped my friend
I really can empathize with you. I always remind myself that you can’t pick your family but you can pick your friends and sometimes our friends are more family then the blood we were born into. Continue to stay strong and on the right path. I can tell you are a good person and have so much love for your daughter. Best wishes to you. 💜
Thank you very much. I really appreciate your kind words❤❤
Hi Mike. It's your fb friend Connie here. This is where I met you and just want you to know how much I am blessed to know you. I only wish I could have been in your life all those years ago. I lost my baby son at birth and I had so much love to give. So proud of you 💕
I really appreciate that my friend! I am SO sorry about your child. I cant even imagine. Im glad we met and thank you again for your kind words. I appreciate it so much❤
Classic example on why people should have to earn the right to have and raise children - my heart goes out to you Mike and I hope life gives you everything you should have had growing up
Thank you. I appreciate it❤❤
@@HostileMikeSEndInG yOU lots of love and a big hug from Ireland. Proud of you Mike😊
@@artistickelly4919 Ireland! Awesome! I do alot of shipping at my work out there! Thank you my friend! ❤️❤️
Mike, you are a rich man. You may never have the cash flow you want and/or deserve, but the family you have, make you a king.👍👏❤️
I agree with you 100%.. I don't wanna sound sappy but the fact I have a daughter and girlfriend that love me like they do makes me rich. Thank you my friend ❤️❤️
It's amazing how strong and levelheaded Mike is, considering the horrific child abuse he endured at the hands of a violent father. Nor did he receive any love or protection from his mother. He's a survivor. I hope he gets a great job he loves, that pays him his worth. He appears to be an intelligent guy and I wish him the best.
Thank you very much for the kind words. I appreciate it very much❤❤
Dude, you are the bravest man I’ve ever met. You are a good father please know that please know that the steps you took to protect your daughter is something every man should put first in his life from one father to another. You are a good father please continue to think of your daughter firstand keep the monkey in that cage where belongs try hard but no you have a world full of people rooting for you
Thank you my friend. That is the plan. That little girl have saved my life❤❤
@@HostileMike you’re welcome brother
Mike, I hope you take in all the admiration, respect, empathy coming from the comments. I hope you see just what an inspiration you are. I noticed a great frustration and sadness about your financial situation. As sensitive and insightful as you are there is a sense of being weighed down about you. Understandable given all you've been through but it seems you are due for a shift in circumstances. This video being a year or so old, maybe that shift has happened. I so hope so. Mike you deserve to feel lighter. I'll say to you, what I hope a friend has already suggested to you. That is, while you are vigilant to not mess up, which requires tremendous on-going strength, I think you need to start giving to yourself. Please if not already started, begin to forgive yourself for the times you did not do better for yourself. You deserve all good things, but most of all learn to love yourself. If you can do this, you'll feel lighter, more able to know your circumstances will no doubt change. Be ready for good things to take hold,
by coming to know you absolutely deserve joy, stability, a sense of higher purpose, and inner peace. You know how to survive especially in turmoil, now start trusting yourself to function well when things go well. Apply your immense inner strength to focusing on you and your needs. Nurture Mike. Take care of Mike. Be extra kind to Mike. You are so worth it friend. Feel it solidly in your heart. Learn to really relax. You are still young. As best you can, treat yourself kindly and respectfully. If you can feel your enormous worth deeply, your world changes. And let some of the sadness for yourself express in tears if you feel sad sometimes. Give yourself time just for you. You are wonderful, believe me, Mike.
I am rooting for you!!
Thank you for commenting. Im sorry i just saw this now. It made my morning to see this comment. Im still struggling but doing good. Im happy to say i have a different car and have heat in it! Lol. Im still clean, working and moving forward. No matter how hard it is. I promised myself that i would give my daughter a different life than mine and I'm keeping that promise. No matter the obstacles. I just love her unconditionally and continue to do so. I REALLY appreciate your comment. I try to come back here every few months and check the comments so again, thank you for commenting. If you want to keep up on how I'm doing i post videos to my RUclips channel every now and then. You can absolutely go and watch them. It was great seeing this comment and thank you for starting my day off on a positive note my friend. Thank you from all of my heart ❤❤
Its truly amazing how Mike can live such a normal life having gone thru such terrible circumstances. Bless you and your family
Thank you so much. I just want the best for my daughter, girlfriend and friends. ❤❤❤
Thanks again for your millionth video that I have watched. He is so real and honest. What a sweet man...
Thank you for the all the kind comments ❤️❤️
Mike you seem like such a wonderful person and father after all the obstacles life has handed you. I wish you well, keep up your sobriety for yourself and your daughter.
Thank you so very much my friend ❤️❤️
Sending love and light. Gave me so much ptsd. Another angel you are.
Thank you for your kind words my friend ❤️
I am SO impressed by you! You broke the cycle for your daughter. Life is HARD. Life is NOT FAIR. It's how you react to it that makes all the difference. You are a warrior. Always take the high road. Godspeed to you always.
Thank you so very much. I appreciate it alot❤️❤️
Sounds like a kind hearted person❤
Thank you for commenting my friend! And thank you for the compliment! I appreciate it very much
Mike, ya remind me of a lot of kids I used to teach in high school. No one knew what they were going through, but I suspected. Your empathy for others and your wisdom from what you endured would make you a good teacher. Whatever you do, you deserve some dignity and I think you're on the right path.
I appreciate that very much friend. Things are very much good today. I am happy. My daughter is happy. My girlfriend is happy. I have people who love and care about me with me and that's what matters most. Thank you for the comment my friend❤
You’re last words were on point! Wishing you the best!
Well thank you! Just speaking from my heart my friend ❤
I can relate to some parts of your traumatic childhood. You are a survivor and a warrior, you should be proud of yourself. I had my son at 19 and he saved my life too. Thanks for sharing your story.
Thank you. Its hard sometimes but when we have kids we have to put them first. Some people don't get that. And they shouldn't be parents..lol. ❤️
I've always said i had a great childhood. Watching SWU videos has definitely reaffirmed that. I feel so sorry for all the people who had terrible childhoods and have trauma from it. There are so many bad people out there. And so many good people being abused by them.
Same here. Hearing these stories breaks my heart knowing they don't know what a good family really is.
Thank you. I appreciate the kind words and honestly I'm glad that my story can show you some good things about your life
@@HostileMike you've done a remarkable job at putting your life back on track. Not many people can accomplish this when they've been exposed to such toxic people their whole lives. Best of luck to you!
Thank you for your offering of the story of your abuse.And Mark Liata you are a genius film maker photographer and your commitment to telling the stories of these tortured souls.I have lived my entire life not understanding why I was subjected to abuse and disappointment my entire life brought on by my family and ex husband.i have repeated a cycle of putting myself in thr line if fire by my mother my own sisters and ex .I am 66 years old and finally took a Deep breath and thought if hope after Clark Frederick's video .I plan to start changing my life at 66 because I will not remain a victim any longer . This revelation came to me on the eve of my 5th cancer surgery and I had completely given up.god bless everyone involved in this amazing mission your on Mark
Thank you very much and I appreciate it. Stay strong. That's all we can do. ❤️❤️
Wishing you all the best, Mike. Thanks for sharing your story.
Thank you. I appreciate it ❤️❤️
Mark another amazing interview. Mike you are a strong resilient man. You're daughter is very proud of you. Sending you love and light ❤️
Thank you so very much. I appreciate that so much ❤❤
I related to your story big time concerning the drug use and having to get better for the babies. Its hard to carry the shame knowing drugs had my ass so bad. The love for your children is there but the grip of addiction is insidious. I am so glad my kids don't recall my shenanigans when i was using. Been clean for 7 years now and dont miss the chaos at all. Anyway you are such a strong person Mike ! Thanks for telling your story !
Thank you very much for your kind words and congratulations to you on staying clean. Keep up the good work my friend❤❤
Its hard not to cry when listening to this, the damage that parents do to their children.
Everything is ok today. I really appreciate your kind words my friend ♥️ Things are much better today
Honesty will set you free. I'm glad you got all this off your shoulders man!! WE ALL fuck up. When you fall down, it doesn't matter how many times, it matters that you ALWAYS get back up, and you have man!! Good on you. You're amazing!!
Thank you very much. It's all about how you fix your mistakes in my eyes❤❤❤
Mike. Thank you for sharing your story with us. Hoping you have some peace and happiness in your life now. Best wishes to you and your daughter.
Thank you my friend. I appreciate it very much❤
Incredible yet sad story but one of profound strength too : you are a fine example of a true survivor
Thank you my friend ❤❤
This guy is stable. He can and did recognize hos mistakes
Thank you my friend. I appreciate that very much. ❤️
Hey Mike, Its Jackie C...so proud of you buddy. I went through a lot of similar crap that you went through(minus the extreme aspect of the child abuse). For some reason, as affluent as it is..North Haven is a cesspool of trauma. It still is...I'm still here..ugh. so proud of you and proud of the father you've become. Rae and Cassie are so lucky to have you.❤
Aww thank you! I appreciate that. North Haven will always be home but I don't like going there unless I have to. Its funny, sometimes when I'm down that way I'll drive by the old house and I automatically remember everything. I call it "the house of horrors".. lol.. Thank you for the kind words❤❤
@@HostileMike Its a wonderful town at first glance..and it will probably always be my home...but damn if it doesnt just find a way to fuck you. I went through the addiction issues, bullying, homelessness..and I know lots of other NH alums who did the same. My first love, Chris Vars, ended up dying from his addiction, which was definitely caused by having a pill popping mom and a drunk dad. I'll never get over that loss. But there are so many others whom we all have lost in NH due to the toxic atmosphere. There are a good group of us who can say we survived North Haven. So proud of you my friend, and proud of your courage in telling your story. More people need to speak out to normalize those of us who have been through deep trauma and made it out the other side as better people than we were when we started. Theres something powerful about being a human that can survive all of that, and still thrive as a caring, loving, hard working person. Luv ya buddy❤
@@mycatiswaysmarterthanmosto8500 it sucks because if I get a message from someone I haven't talked to in a while I immediately think someone else is gone. I have lost so many friends to addiction I can't even count. Alot of them from North Haven. All I know is if I stay away from heroin and cocaine I'll be ok. I have to stay on track for my kid. For Cass. Some days are easier than others and we may struggle and live paycheck to paycheck but the bills are paid, there's food in the fridge and I have a job I've been at for almost 5 years now. Things are ok. And I'll die before I let that go away❤️❤️
Great interview. Resonated with me. My background nowhere near as bad - only bouts of violence at home and got out pronto. But like he said in the interview, adversity and making your own strong decisions make you a survivor. Finding someone to spend your life with his a godsend. Wish I hadn't had to constantly struggle, but too old to change that now😂 Much love from Spain.
Hello I'm the guy in the video. Thank you very much. I really appreciate the kind words. Stay strong my friend
@@HostileMikeYou are a cool guy, I hate your parents treated you that way, no child should ever be treated that way❤
It's a strange thing to say that yours is probably my 'favourite " of these interviews but I felt so much of what you said. I too cut my family because I was just done with them, I couldn't stay in education as life had left me with a brain that couldnt take in anything, consequently I know that worry of living month to month and the frustration that I will not be able to leave my daughter anything to help her when I'm gone. Sending from the UK a big fluffy cloud of love and respect and all good things to you,your girlfriend and your daughter. Look up one sunny day and you'll see it! Best wishes xxx
Thank you. I appreciate that. And. I'm sorry that you had to cut them out. Its a horrible feeling having to cut out family but when you think about it in the long run, you have to do what's best for you. Whether they are blood or not. Cutting out everyone made my life so much less hectic. And I'll take that over the games any day. Stay strong my friend. ❤❤
Thank you for sharing your story!!!!!
Incredible story of strength and perseverance.
Thank you again....
Thank you! I appreciate it ❤️❤️
A good man has risen above awful circumstances. Keep up the good work and remember that there is lots of good in the world. You were born to share this story.
Thank you my friend. I've always said I knew my story could help. Thank you very much❤
I could see that guy being responsable with some financial support ! I hope he can get a breather soon ❤
Aww thank you. Lol. I'm just glad I got to share my story and hope it inspires someone to stay strong❤️
It’s Awful when you feel like you Fail in life because the way you were raised!
But just like he said…. He learned what NOT to do!!!!
That right there is the Biggest accomplishment you can had ever did! Keep up the good job and Believe in yourself!!!!
Thank you for the compliment and for commenting! I really appreciate it. All i do is make sure daughter never experiences what i did. Im proud to say she's doing good and I'm continuing to provide a good life for her. Thanks again my friend
I want to hug Mike. I hate when I know or hear about neglectful parents. I remember being a kid and having a boyfriend who had it rough. I hope he never committed suicide. ☹
Well thank you for the kind words. I really appreciate that very much. When I was younger I maybe thought about it a little bit but not much. I have a daughter I need to be here for. So it's not even a thought these days❤️
Here's a hug 🤗stay on the right track and be the best dad you can be. I now it's hard. You're welcome. @@HostileMike
@@soniagalindo7589I love the positivity my friend. It puts a smile on my face😃
@@HostileMikeBest of luck to you and your daughter! 😍
@@Linda-in9ns❤❤
My heart is bleeding for this wonderful man. He has been through so much and has come out clean! Amen on having children to be your drive to change and be the better person! ❤
Thank you. I appreciate it ❤️
Just because they're your family doesn't mean they're good for you necessarily. So many parents in this world should never have been parents.
You are 100% correct. Thank you for the kind words. I appreciate it so much❤
💯 my parents
Some families are just toxic, i never had it as bad as Mike did, but i am estranged from all my "blood relatives". They are just self-obsessed and deceitful. I suffer from mental health issues, and once when i had an in-patient stay in hospital, i spoke to a really good psychologist. We did a few sessions with me describing my life till then from as far back a i could remember. She mentioned to me afterwards that i did the best thing in leaving them behind, i didn't need to be told that anyway. However it just showed that she knew my illness would be far, far worse with such toxic people. I wish Mike the best of luck, he is worth a million times more than the scum that treated him so bad.
Thank you my friend and I am glad you broke away. It's not easy. But in the end we have to do what's best for us regardless of blood. I know deep down stepping away from them was the best thing for me. My life was filled with heartache and sorrow with them in it. And now it's not. So I made the right decision. Stay strong man. You are doing the right thing. All my mental health problems have gotten so much better to deal with now that they are gone. So keep it up. Do what's best for you. Thank you for your comment my friend ❤️
@@HostileMike Hi Mike, thank you very much for your reply. You are so correct, some people are lucky with families that are supportive and loving. However there are many people that are not so blessed, my childhood was nowhere near as dark as yours, however it's only in adulthood you can look back, and realise things that shouldn't have happened. You could so easily have gone down a different path, the reason you have such a cool daughter is you frankly. What she has taken in and learnt is that despite a long, long list of issues, you put her first. I wish you had never had to go through any of those things, but i am very glad you're alive, and you are an example for many people. With your start in life, that is one heck of an achievement, i hope things get easier financially for you guys too. Take care my friend ❤
Mike, sending you and your daughter much Love and Healing❤️🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏❤️
Remember Mike, there can be great value in being the black sheep. I’m sure that you have a much greater sense of self than the others in your family. You were the one that, thankfully, got away❤️. Congrats on your sobriety also❤️❤️LOVE ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Hello. I'm the guy in the video. Thank you so much my friend. I really appreciate the positive words. Keep strong and thank you again my friend
Mike needs many kudos, as a former CPS social worker, that he checked this man’s background and immediately went to court to protect his daughter from a sex offender. My heart breaks for him b/c he never had a childhood that made sense to a child.
I immediately went to the court house and handled it. It took me 3 years to keep him away for good but as soon as I found out he was gone ever since. I'll do whatever I have to to keep her safe ❤❤
FOR THE POOR FOUNDATION, HE IS DOING AMAZINGLY WELL. GOT A GOOD HEAD ON HIS SHOULDERS. THE BEST TO HIM. LOVE IS HIS LEGACY TO HIS DAUGHTER. MORE IMPORTANT THAN MONEY. HUGZ TO HIM 🥰🥰🥰
Thank you my friend and I appreciate it very much❤❤❤
Keep on keeping on, my friend. You have a heart of gold.
Thank you very much❤❤❤
Hi Mike, (Interviewee) I noticed you said a few times that you were a "softy". I can relate to that. It took me many, many years to even try to understand what that meant. What I found was that there is an Emotional Intelligence. Maybe you already know the phrase. Anyways, once I understood that about myself I was able to have another level peace inside myself. There are a lot of highly sensitive people out in this world. I am not going to shoot rainbows in your butt, but... sensitive people can be more deeply moved by beauty, can love others deeply and have a complex, but deep rich life. Peace to you friend. - Keven
I relate to this friend thank u for sharing.
Thank you so much for sharing your story! You’re such a sweet and kind person - I wish you and your loved ones all the best in the world! ✌🏻❤️
Thank you so very much for your kind words ❤️❤️
You did a great job. Its brave of you to speak about your story. That takes alot.. I wish you well and i love "be kind to others that are kind to you"....Take care of yourself and thank yo so much for sharing. You're right though, sometimes you have to cut someone out of your life to be mentally healthy. But I still had to work through those resentful feelings...thank you...wish you and your daughter well.💙🌎
Thank you for the kind words and I wish you all the best. It is very much appreciated❤❤
Great interview. Thank you to Mike for opening up and telling his story. I , personally found it interesting how Mike has broken the family abuse cycle and his family is as normal as can be with himself, his girlfriend and his daughter. ❤
Thank you my friend ❤❤
Some of us were gifted awful humans as parents. Lucky we are better than that! When you start choosing who you keep in your universe you get your power back. Wishing you a fabulous future Mike.
Thank you very much! It all comes down to who you want to associate your time with. Choose wisely. ❤
Goodness. So many kids get treated like dirt. So sad. I am glad you are doing way better for your daughter then you had. You are a good Dad! ❤
Thank you very much my friend ❤️❤️
Hang in there, Mike. You got this.
Thank you my friend. I will. ❤️
The struggle makes what you have struggled for, worth that much more.
Thank you my friend ❤️❤️
Stay up Mike Wishing you the best
Thank you my friend. I'm doing the best I can. Its tough sometimes but I'll pull through it all. For my daughter ❤️
Thank you Mike for sharing your story. It's amazing you are the kind and loving person you are after all you've been through. You are blessed with a sweet and loving daughter. You are blessed with a great girlfriend. And they are bleeding with an amazing dad and boyfriend. I wish you peace and happiness.
Thank you so much for the kind words my friend. I really appreciate it. It's all about making sure we are happy and we never go through what I did. ❤
Hi ya Mark : Might need a part 2 for this fella ?!
I'd love to come back!! I have many more stories. Thank you! ❤❤
Wow, the resilience of this man is incredible.
Thank you very much! I appreciate that❤❤
I think ANYONE that sits on that stool has a story to tell. God Bless all ya'll.
Thank you speaking your truth and being vulnerable.
Thank you for taking the time to listen! I really appreciate it. And luckily if someone doesn't like me I don't care. Join the club!! Hahaha❤❤
I wish this guy were in my area, I'd be glad to help out and put a heater core in for him
I appreciate that. But I'll be ok. I always am. Thank you my friend ❤️❤️
Miķe, thank you for your honesty! I'm glad that your life is better now! God bless you and yours!
Thank you very much my friend ❤️❤️
You're welcome friend!
@@cindyturner2800 ❤️❤️
I like this interview
Thanks Mike (You're a diamond) and Mark for sharing. Listening to your words is helping me sir 💚❤💚
Thank you for the kind words my friend ❤️❤️
Mike, I feel for you. I struggle to pay bills and to find employment that will take me somewhere better, but I was fortunate to have parents and an entire family of kind and supportive people. Please give yourself some praise for all the good you’ve done without having that as an example. As others have said, your love for your daughter is a powerful force. It sounds like it comes back to you tenfold. For what my opinion is worth, I think from this interview that you have your head and heart in the right place.
Thank you very much. I really appreciate that❤️❤️❤️
I can so relate to his story
Well aren't u a bizzy body @@steakeater4018
I think your such a sweet guy, my son is 40 so my heart is so sad for you! You have to close that door now Mike!
I don’t speak to any of my family also, thank you for your story!!❤
Thank you very much for your kind words and I really appreciate it 💖
You’re a good man Mike stay strong brother your daughter needs you bro❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
And that is what it is all about.❤❤❤ Thank you
I'm from New Haven/ East Haven. I feel your struggles. I'm with you my guy. I'm so proud of you. Keep pushing @hostileMike
Thank you very much my friend. I love going back for some Pepes or Modern😉❤
If you are reading this there’s a reason……No matter how good or bad you have it,wake up each day thankful for your life.Someone somewhere else is desperately fighting for theirs ❤️🇧🇸
You are 100% correct. Thank you my friend ❤❤
@@HostileMike You Welcome Love May god continue to pray and keep strong and safe 🇧🇸❤️
Rough life. Way to change your family dynamic. Keep on keeping on.
Thank you my friend. It's all about my daughter. I don't know where I'd be without her
Be good to the people that are good to you how true that statement is. Mike focused on your daughter, your job and your well-being and you will make it you’ve already been threw hell and back stay clean, and life will give you blessings. I wish you peace, happiness and prosperity And love. ❤
Thank you very much my friend. Very much appreciated ❤❤❤
Listening to you talk I feel enormously proud of you and your x wife for doing the right thing by your daughter!
It hasn't been easy. But we are doing our best. Thank you my friend ❤️❤️
I’m amazed at the level of awareness your daughter has. You sound like a really great dad.
Thank you for your kind words. She really is such a smart kid. She notices everything. I'm very proud of who she is becoming. Thank you ❤
Man, so often i hear about ppl on these SWU interviews say that their friends held/backed them up. Just want to acknowledge all the non blood relatives that keep us ALL going. You make a difference. It would be cool to hear some interviews of ppl that got great cards to play in this Life who shared their good fortune, resources to help others! These kinds of stories would be very inspirational. I mean, ppl who did good and just dropped it in the Collective Well of Humanity.❤ Thanks for your story Buddy, you remind me a lot of a fam member. Be safe and STAY strong. Sober first n last!❤😊
Thank you my friend. Like I said, my friends are my family. And I have the most important blood relative by my side. My daughter. And that's who is most important out of them all. ❤❤
I would really love and appreciate an interview with someone who broke into very demanding career (IT/Tech/Medicine/Architecture) in their late years (30s/40s/50s).
@@steakeater4018 Oh, you're not doing great because system hates you because you're heterosexual white man. I get you.
Late years in their thirties, huh.
@@KL_Stereo By that I meant you're kinda in your late years for becoming a software engineer at 38.
@@HolyCannolis Sure, when that interview gets published don't watch it. Have a nice day.
Mike found stability hisself. And found a real family.
You got that right my friend ❤❤
You're good people, Mike
Thank you my friend. I appreciate that very much❤️❤️
Very cool guy. Easy and enjoyable to listen to. Don´t beat yourself up over the overdose. Everyone makes mistakes and you learned from it and grew from it. Best of luck to you.
Thank you my friend! I really appreciate that. I am in a much better place today. I have everyone I love by my side and I am so very happy. Thank you again. Much appreciated ❤❤
Some of the comments shredding this man is sick and mean. SWU gives an opportunity for someone to tell their story, it's not a f'g trial or debate where you need to hear the other side.
He stopped the cycle of abuse with his own child and prevents any harm towards her which includes his own family.
Keep the faith Mike.
Thank you very much for your comment my friend. The trolls will be trolls. There are honestly only like 5% troll comments on here so there are a lot more of the positive ones. It doesn't bother me. I'm happy today. Thank you very much for your kind words and I really appreciate it so very much. ❤❤