AQUARIUMS saved my life (EMOTIONAL) PART 1 

Im sorry i have been absent from this video and replying to many of you. I made this video and left it at that. Thats not me. You know im always there. The comment section is killing me with love though. While i realize being popular on youtube is suppose to mean something, its just an ego thing. It's silly. Im literally no one without this channel and We both know it. I made this video thinking i could help someone. Just one would make it worth it. Im willing to sacrifice everything i have worked for to help someone reinvent them self. I cant believe i told anyone any of this story you watched... im supposed to be a super hero to some, yet i feel so weak watching this. I live a surreal life and i know it. I just watched this for this first time since i made it(its march 7/19). Part 2 is something i have tried to make for months. I cant do it. Im sorry. Maybe some day. Just not today or tomorrow. I hope you understand. (PS: i coulda bought some new fish and got more views... its never been that for me. I feel this entire 11 years of making videos has been . a set up. A set up to something greater. Use this platform for something greater.)... i dunno. I'll just keep making videos and hope no one remembers there is a part 2. PSS: Through every dark night, there is a brighter day after that. Wake up tomorrow and be who you know you can be.

Mad respect to you for putting this out there Joey. Weakness, hardship and overcoming adversity creates strong people. We all come from somewhere, but who we are today and who we become is what matters and I'm glad you see it that way now.

You are 100%a true Legend among Men my friend. Thank you for all of your advice personally, being my friend, and helping so many others realize there is so much to enjoy in life. Appreciate you brother

Hey man, I'm a therapist and I specifically work with juveniles that have been sentenced as adults. It's my passion and I've been at it for 18 years. I'm also a fish enthusiast and subscriber to your channel. Just wanted to say that I'm proud of you. I see guys go home all the time, only to return to prison. However, I also see a few that get out and stay out. Thank God you found passion in life! Keep up the good work man.

As someone that also grew up hating the world, thinking he'd never make it past the age of 18, I truly believe that all humans are capable of being a beacon of love and light, some get very lost, often times through no fault of their own( as in our childhood and how we were raised). The only thing that matters is that you found something that made you see that in yourself. But in the end we are all only responsible for ourselves, no one else, you can't change people, you can only change how you react to them. We didn't save you, you saved yourself, don't take that victory away from yourself, YOU earned it, Joey.

“i don’t find it right that you look up to me. look over to me, i’m standing right beside you.” that was amazing and we’re so proud of who you’ve become. everyone deserves a chance no matter their background or past choices. we all have issues have to struggle with them but many are not willing to be open about them. you were. there were so many things that this video made me feel. happiness. hopefulness. empathy. proud. everyone, no matter how great, should always continue to work on themselves.

I removed myself from my moms home at 16 because she picked her drug head, cheating, mentally and physically abusive boyfriend over me. They started dating when I was 8 and fought and argued for 8 years. It was an awful cycle of listening to her scream and cry while he threatened her. I was tired of running away and tired of her threats to call cfs and have me taken away so I'd live with some other family.(she made me believe that if I was taken away, id be put in an awful foster home) So I called them myself, my social worker fought hard for me and I was moved to my grandmas house after june. Around August I got my first tank. It was a 36 gal bowfront. And then I got a 10 gal and then a 75 gal. I may have not had it nearly as bad, but fish definitely helped me through the trauma and hurt I was going through. Today I have over 200+ gallons and I am 17. It has been a year since I left home. I haven't made contact with my mom. Thank you for making this video and making me feel less alone.

The craziest thing is I have not seen this video... I was 16 and up on attempted murder charges along with a host of other charges... you were one of the first people to pop up in my feed on youtube... you got me into the hobby and for you to come from the same background is amazing... really gives me hope on a youtube career like I want... I love my aquariums but I want to make a fishing channel here in Ontario!!!

Your wife sounds like an amazing woman who has always loved you unconditionally. It sounds like she knew exactly what she needed to do to help you live a better life and become the human being she has always believed you could be. From the first video of yours that I watched, it has been about watching YOU more than it has been about the aquarium hobby. You have so much personality and you have ways seemed so down to earth and humble with no agenda or opinion to push. Congratulations on everything you have achieved and on the person that you have become. You deserve every piece of success that comes your way.

While watching this I thought back to your video where you were doing cosmetic surgery on your Arowana. Listening to your story and remember how much your hands trembled while you were being so gentle with that fish makes it so hard for me to imagine who you used to be. Thank you so much for making videos. I am 15 years old and recovering from sexual abuse and depression along with an eating disorder. I got into the hobby just recently and I only have two 5 gallon tanks but it has helped me so much to know that even when I don’t want to live to see tomorrow my fish do. They don’t have any knowledge of who I am or what I’ve been through but I am the person who they rely on. This video was so comforting to watch. Thank you so much for sharing your story and thank you so much for all you’ve contributed into this wonderful community.

You've come so far dude really admirable. I'm 22 and I've been in prison 8 times, i just got out in November. My life was a mess, drinking and partying constantly, hated authority, was angry at every one and everything. I had done some terrible stuff to people. I got told next time if i was seen in a court room again for anything no matter how small I'd get 3-5 years instantly. My girlfriend got pregnant not long after i was released and it changed me, I've not been in trouble sinse then i haven't touched a drink, don't do drugs, my own house, full time job. I do feel like a total different person and its great.

I’m late on this I grew up in the Bronx had similar situation was a body builder fought in the golden gloves and in the street almost got put away for manslaughter. Saved my friends sister from getting raped so I got off. My solution was join the service in 1962 went to Nam. The hobby was my outlet had 3 wholesale fish outlets brought in fresh, salt, water fish and Africans, . I’m now 78 and still keep fish in Florida and upstate N.Y.. Your a fine young man Joey. This will probably never get read but Love your channel 🤛

Dude, i don't even know how long i've been following you, it feels like forever. I've seen every video you've put up. I was in a car accident in 2010 that left me bed ridden for 4 years. The emotion of that i can't even describe. When i found your videos, i found passion that had long since disappeared. I rediscovered my love of aquatics and it helped me get through those hard times. Those days i'd just lay in bed and watch youtube videos because i was physically unable to do anything. I can honestly say, with all my heart, Joey, you saved MY life. I am eternally grateful for everything you've done and so proud you finally found happiness in your life. You deserve the world, my friend. You are one hell of a man and i think i speak for everyone that watches your videos when i say "The HOBBY would be lost without you". You've shown your joy and passion that can't be made up. You're genuine and i thank you, brother.

"I don't feel that it's right that you to look up to me. Rather look over to me, I'm standing right beside you" Absolute respect for you Joey. That quote to me shows the 'real' Joey, the one we've all seen in your videos all this time. The one you have become because it's who you truly were all along, even if it took you a little while to realise it.

We didn't gave you a change, we didn't save your live and we haven't changed it forever, YOU gave yourself a chance, YOU changed your life and YOU've maybe even saved your life. People can look up to you because YOU show people can change, people can go from bad to good, people can look like theyre on drugs because theyre exited and happy with how life's going now. Big up to you, yourself Joey!

Bro this man is so brave to tell all of us this👍🏻👌

Joey, I want you to know I don’t care about fish. I don’t care about aquariums. Not in the slightest. But I have been watching your show for the past months. For the longest time I didn’t understand why. Why am I watching this? I don’t even share this hobby. But now I’m starting to understand. Somehow, some way, you are about hope. About sincerity. About bouncing back. You, through your hobby, succeed in conveying the fact that amongst darkness, violence and despair, there is beauty. The beauty of simple things. In this case, the beauty of fish, of aquascaping, of caring for small creatures. That message goes beyond the hobby. It cannot be said in words, but it reaches people beyond the community. I want you to know this is highly appreciated.

Joey I hope you read this: 1) I think you did a really good job of telling your story without glorifying you actions at all. 2) I've been watching your videos for a long time and I know you have a true passion and It has channeled your energy 3) I too used to be an aggressive person and both time and taking care of fish, reptiles, and tarantulas has taught me the value of life. I think your your truely doing a good thing and I know you touch many people who feel alone.

I am so humbled by your story. Thank you for sharing, your work is awesome, and your passion for the hobby is so apparent don't stop doing what you love. You haven't ruined your children's future, they can still do well at school and all it requires is your encouragement if your passion for the fishkeeping hobby is the same for your children, then the world is their oyster. Thank you from the UK.

A little late to watching but you are such an inspiration. Because of you, I got into the hobby. Completely turned my life around. I dropped out of school, went into the Army, got out and started living recklessly. My mental health got destroyed in the Military and I felt like I would never be better than I was when I was in the Military. I didn't fit in, in civilian life. The way people acted, the way they talked, the lack of respect people had turned me sour. I hated everyone ALMOST as much as I hated myself. I turned into an alcoholic and let my PTSD and depression take over my life. Was on that road for 2 years and then I got a DUI. I got put on house arrest rather than jail because i had a sick grandmother to take care of and during that time i found your channel and the aquarium community. My life forever changed after that. I now have a 125 gallon saltwater reef tank that I poor at least 6 hours a day into taking care of and will soon be upgrading to a 300 gallon for my saltwater and turning the 125g into a fish only saltwater puffer tank or a freshwater for a fahaka or mbu. Love ya man. If it wasn't for finding your channel and being introduced to the huge world of aquarium enthusiasts I'd either be dead or close to it. Thank you. ❤❤

Hey Joey, I've never commented on a video before, but I feel like I need to say this. I cannot express the amount of love I have for this video. I originally came to this channel because I was kinda interested in a few of your videos, and wanted to follow one of the projects you've worked on. But what I enjoy most is the energy you show in your videos, and how much of yourself you put into this. That's what I personally enjoy the most, and I'm sure I'm not alone in that. Stay true to what you enjoy, you truly are an inspiration to others.

Your videos saved my life... when I was 13 I became extremely violent and something changed in my head. I became depressed and would snap at anyone. I could have killed someone with ease and without thinking Twise. For 3 years I couldn't remember ever smiling or being happy about something. When I was 16 I tried to kill myself due to years of severe depression. I started to watch your videos and your positivity towards the hobby and it inspired me to get a fish tank. It was the first time I had been excited or happy about anything. Its all I would think about. I continued watching your videos and it has honestly made me such a positive person. I can honestly say that I would not be around today if I didn't discover your content. I'm now 18 years old I'm about to join the RAF as a pilot. im into bodybuilding and still love fishkeeping.I have so much positivity in my life and it's all thanks to you Joey.

I don't normally leave comments about the video I have just watched, this time I felt I must. Joey, I, and I'm sure most other people who watched you,will really respect you for being so honest about your troubled past. Thank you for that. I have been watching your videos since the gallery was under construction. What I now know about you, won't make me see you in a bad way, in the slightest. Your wife sounds like she's is most definitely your guardian angel!!! Keep up the good work, and I'm sure the next million subscribers won't be that far away! Nice one Joey!

I feel the emotions of the hobby man. I was in Iraq for a year and had to do things that while over there didn't bother me but, when I got home drove me nut. I tried to end it all and luckily I failed at it. My therapist told me that I needed to occupy my mind with a hobby. Ive always been an animal lover so I knew thats what I needed but in the barracks I could only have fish and reptiles. My barracks room became a zoo. I always set my tanks and enclosures to look like the animals native environment because the pleasing look. I would pick an animal and just tunnel vision and imagine being in the animals environment with it and for hours i would just escape reality. I used every aspect of the hobby from research to care as a crutch and it worked. I'm forever thankful to animals because they've saved my life so many times.

Never thought I could get this emotional watching videos from a fishkeeping channel. Thank you for sharing your story, you certainly weren't obligated to, but it's great that you could be so genuine and you feel comfortable enough to do so. Thank you for showing people there's always a chance to improve. Your channel has always been a source of entertainment and education, but now you feel a little more like family, knowing more about your personal life. Sending all my love!

I looked at you before watching this video as a man who was passionate, and to many, being super passionate about something can scare people. To paraphrase what you said in the video, people would call you hyper or on drugs and that was because they didn’t understand. After watching this video, I see you as a changed man, someone who truly deserves to be happy. I’m not going to say that the things you did in the past don’t matter, they are very well do. But knowing about those things has changed my perception of you, not in a bad way, but a good one. From the very bottom of my heart, I thank you. Not only for putting this information out there, but for bringing awareness. Thank you, Joey.

" Dont look up to me, just look over to me, im standing right beside you." is probably one of the most amazing things ive ever heard

Fairly new subscriber and just happened upon this video. I can not even imagine the pain you have gone through, nor the struggles you have overcome. However, I am so proud of you. You have obviously grown up, matured, and realized the errors of your past and are trying to make amends. You are such an inspiration for so many just plain fish hobbyists, let alone all the young teens that have similar pasts. I appreciate your humbleness, your honesty, and your vulnerability in sharing your story. You have reassured so many that there IS a purpose for everyone and that there IS something worth fighting for, even if it is only fish. Because I haven’t yet had the opportunity to meet you in person, here is a virtual hug expressing my sincere gratitude and thanks. I’m sure your wife and kids love on you all the time, but sometimes it feels nice to get a hug from someone that cares.

Everybody who disliked doesn't appreciate somebody being real and talking about the dark places where nobody wants to go. You're loved and appreciated, Joey. Thank you for what you do

When I was 12 I was admitted to a residential treatment center for paranoid ideation, suicidal tendencies, school refusal and incredibly violent outbursts. My time there was short for reasons that I won’t get into, but once I was out I was in a much darker place both mental health wise and anger wise. For years I kept spiraling downhill, having to restrain myself from self harm on an almost daily basis. Until last year when I convinced my parents to let me get into the pet-keeping hobby. First I got an orchid mantis, her name was Delilah and she was the sweetest bug I’ve ever met, and to this day I still miss her dearly. Then I found your channel, as well as solidgoldaquatics Channel! I made a pretty big jump from a bug in a jar, to building a pond in our backyard for fancy goldfish. I was ecstatic, and spent all of my time researching fish & other animals. Every time I would have normally sat around in fear, any time I was on the brink of an outburst..I just researched animals. It was the first time I had a genuine distraction from the negative thoughts that until then I could never push away. We currently have 4 fancies in our pond, as well as a green cheek conure who is almost like a service animal for me. Right now I’m working on saving up to start a breeding program for endangered parrot species after I graduate, and possibly a pet shop some time in the future!

I am so proud of you. 2 years ago I started working at a pet store, and I realized that people were coming to me about fish advice which I knew nothing about! I felt a huge responsibility to learn how to be the best teacher possible. I started binge watching fish channels, reading endless websites, and now I have two tanks and some basic knowledge which grows every day thanks to people like you and my own trials and tribulations! I’ve gained so many tools to help others and true joy from this hobby, thank you so much for sharing what you do with us. Congratulations man!! Animals are truly so healing. You are an inspiration to me and so many others :)

You said you "only make fish tank videos." To me, you make the BEST fish tank videos. I appreciate what you shared in this video, as it hit home in a lot of ways. And in a way, this is almost like a fish tank video. The way you opened up and shared your story is almost like me, the viewer, getting to peer through the glass of a tank to watch and try to understand the fish just for a little while. I feel like I'll be able to sleep a little better tonight and even be a little bit more inspired tomorrow. Thank you.

Joey, thanks for sharing an important part of your journey. I’m so proud of you. Reaching a Million viewers on RU-vid is an amazing accomplishment. You have taught me so much and I’m 52 years old. Your past being a student, you’re a teacher now. I believe I can speak for most of your subscribers when I say your passion and energy is very welcoming in most of our days. I really do hope that maybe as part of your Million Subscribers celebration, you do something special for your wife who helped you so much. Here’s to you Joey...May the next million be as rewarding and fun as the first....your proud subscribers! We love you very much!

"Don't look up to me. Rather look over to me. I'm standing right beside you." the most inspiring thing I've heard in a long time. Thank you.

I dont how and why I got in this channel. But that time I was depressed because of some health issues. I stayed away from the society as much as I can. And then I got in here, and became an instant fan because of how you work on diy's that almost looks like a work of pro. Because of you I started the hobby. And it helps me recover from depression and anxiety. I'm now free from depression and it's all because of you, joey. Everything I know about fish keeping, I learned from you. Thank you joey!

I'm just seeing this two years later, and if you ever see this... Man, I respect you telling your story. There's something special about hearing that someone you look up to is a flawed person too. I hope that in your dark times, you're able to appreciate how far you've come. Thank you for being so candid, despite how hard it is to dig up the painful things from your past.

You are someone we should he looking up to. You are proof that people can change, you are proof that once your in the system you dont have to stay in, you are proof that you can make something of yourself even when your childhood/upbringing groomed you to be a certain way. You are an inspiration and role model for everyone watching this video. You beat the system and everyone that said you wouldnt go far in life. Be proud of yourself, I'm sure everyone worth a damn is proud of you too.. your more than the king of D.I.Y, your something extremely special to come from where you came from and be who you are today is something special and I along with everyone watching and everyone close to you have a tremendous amount of respect for you

You are a inspiration to us all Joey. I've always had respect for you,but now after watching this video you have my greatest respect. Everyone has the capacity to change there life,everyone can change there stars. Getting into reptiles and other exotic animals helped change mine,I'm so glad you found the fish hobby and changed your life for the better,because if not we as a community would not have such a great man leading the way and showing us what we are all capable of in the hobby and in life. Never give up,never give in. Always strive for bigger and better things. Just because you came fr9m the gutter,does not mean you don't deserve to sit on a thrown. You are the KING of diy after all.

Your kids have a great father. Well done dear sir.

the risk this man took. he flooded his ENTIRE life story and put it in the most dangerous thing possible; the internet. And the fact that he was able to put this out... jaw dropping and amazing

This is an amazing video bro I’m so glad you made it

Joey, knowing where you came from and what you are today makes you more of an inspiration then ever before. Thank you sincerely for sharing your story. I can't imagine how hard it must've been to make this video, but I think I can speak for most of us in saying we are so very proud of you. Your love for the hobby can now truly be understood and it's amazing. Your videos have always been so exciting and full of life and now we can understand why. Your love for your fans and the fish leaps out from the videos and captivates all of us. Thank you again for sharing your story and here is to 2 million subscribers. I will be here when that happens too!

Your childhood was not your fault. You didn't choose your parents. You didn't choose your teachers. In my view (I can relate) you were failed by a system that was designed to protect you. Being able to tell the world, more importantly yourself that you made mistakes is a huge step. Anger and violence is hard wired in to you. It won't ever go away. But you have learned how to control it. The way that you have fought your demons and broken down all the barriers is commendable. What you've done and who you are now are two completely different things. You are now an inspiration to others and I would encourage you to share your story with young kids. Your an example that bad begginings don't mean bad endings. Your a success story.

My whole family drinks daily almost all day. I started to fall into it myself and breaking other people's expensive stuff. Thanks to my wife for my first fish tank. Since then I barely drink and stopped breaking stuff. I teared up watching this because I get it. I thought i was going to grow up and drink with my kids like my family did with me. Instead I'm showing and teaching them about my fish. Know Im actually able to be a good dad and I now have 5 tanks and looking to buy more when I can. Thank you for all the great content!

This video here directly depicts how you can never judge a book by its cover, assume someone's personality or homelife, the past, ect. It shows how others lives are more challenged by the choice you make at such a young age. Today was a awful day for myself for my own reasons. But watching this and hearing this timeline has made me both emotional and happy at the same time. All of my life I've been pushed down by my own mother and step father emotionally. Constantly told things that a young child shouldn't be told. It unfortunately still continues today and I'm just waiting for that 18 year mark so I can leave and never come back. My girlfriend always tells me I can make it but when my parents become who they are i feel as tho i want to give up on it all. On everything. Even if it happens again today I'll think of this video and remember that i can make it through till that 18 year mark and I'll be free. Thank you for opening my eyes when for so long I've had no hope in sight, no light at the end of my tunnel. Thank you so much.

Dude! We will definetly not look down on you! You have achieved a goal far from what the judges once told you! You managed to turn your life to the better! You just gave me the feels and really, truly inspired me and sooo many others to keep going and not surrender, even in hard times. Thank you! ^^ You can be proud to be who you've become, Joey!

Your wife is a angel! This hobby has helped me through awful depression and anxiety. So grateful for this community!

It's odd coming across this vid. I recently started watching coralfish12g and other youtubers that eventually got recommended to me through this community of i guess aquarium enthusiasts or hobby ests?? I think it's amazing how nostalgic it can be to remember owning fish as i'm sure many kids do growing up. Now i want to own a betta again. I watched this entire video. Through it i watched your body language change while telling this story. The aversion of the eyes, some edited bits out, closeness and comfort of the arms and just not looking at the camera...there is so much history , pain, guilt, but so much genuiness. I believe that it's all about what you do with the gift of life and how you live it ...is what makes you great. Always learn from your experiences or mistakes. Be different...Continue to live and just find what makes you happy. It is all any of us can do. The fact that you smiled so much talking about this passion for aquatic life and hobby was touching. This was such an inspiring story. God bless...

Most RU-vidrs: celebrating and partying when they reached 1mil Joey: opening about his life 💜

I don’t usually comment on videos, but this... this made me cry. Honestly, I’m lucky. I have what people call a clean background. I come from a privileged place, was born into a family that’s well off and a kind community. But I’ve struggled with severe depression and anxiety ever since I was a child. I’ve had countless brushes with death by suicide, and some days I still can’t get out of bed. I’m still here though, and I’m getting better. Your story was really touching, and hit me really hard. I can only hope to achieve as much as you have and make as much progress as you have. You are truly an inspiration.

Hey my names graydon. I’m 17 years old, I live with my mom and I’ve been through a lot. Ive only been a week sober but within this week I got a fish tank. I got a black moor goldfish and just the other day I picked up an Orando goldfish. Since the age of 14 I have been battling addiction and I’ve always had a tough time staying away from certain things. I just recently got out of juvenile hall. Before I relapsed I started to fish, everyday after work I would go fish at Dana harbor, and never in my life have I been as happy as I was wen I went fishing. Swing this video has inspired me because I can relate to how you grew up. My mom is an alcoholic, abusive, etc and I just want to let you know that this video really spoke to me and I was able to relate to this video and just keep up the hard work and making the awesome videos! :)

Joey, i admit that i was thinking that you are the one born with a silverspoon, also you look like a guy who was living a wonderful life.. Prejudgements give us wrong ideas, besides its an indication that you look fantastic that is a positive side of it. Believe me you should proud yourself more than you do, you are great person and world citizen who is beloved by the people around the world, thank you and youtube, we know you now, and we love you as always we did. Keep up the good work friend.. we are following you from Turkiye, god bless you!

Sir!!!!!! I APPLAUD LOUDLY the courage and strength that it took for you to be this vulnerable and share your story. What you have done may have just saved countless lives, caused others to STRONGLY consider their current situations! I pray that you will continue to be strengthened and healed and I thank God that what you have been through DID NOT destroy you but through it caused that fire that is in you to burn in your favor and not burn you out! KEEP MOVING AND GROWING FORWARD SIR!

Came for the fish, stayed for the feels. That was inspirational dude.

Thank you for being better than what the world told you, you could be. Thank you for being accountable and open in the face of a world that encourages self preservation and demands perfection. Thank you for your strength. Thank you for your weaknesses. Thank you and your family for the sacrifices you've undoubtedly all made to spread education and joy. Thank you, Joey, for sharing your journey, for your humility and for being the inspiring person you are!

This past year I have been doing therapy for management training (I know, funny concept). One thing they hammer into me is, you can’t grow others without growing yourself. A part of that is confronting your past, telling these stories out loud and looking into yourself to find out why you are the way you are. That’s exactly what you’re doing Joey. I know this video isn’t new but your channel is new to me. I appreciate you sharing this and I hate that you went through such a rough childhood. Just like you said, we are all standing with you.

I think this will help a lot of young criminals to understand what’s going on in there life. I grew up in care and was seen as a bad kid ... had 36 foster homes and ended up homeless... I now teach foster carers and young people helping them understand the psychology and emotional side of it all and it changes lives. I think all too often people who have bad lives and turn out good try to forget who they were and what they did but people like this , people like you forget the strength needed to get out of all that and survive that . Seriously Joey you need to talks to schools and prisons and embrace your past ... your not a bad person for trying to survive a world which you were raised to believe was a war zone ... some people never escape that war ... but you did. Hobbies as you say really help , I’m into reptiles and cars but used to be into fish (the expense through me off) but still have a hobby to focus on and still enjoy watching your videos and enjoying a hobby I can’t afford through you. Well done fit sharing this, men are often taught to emotionally suppress themselves so your words I’m sure would help many to embrace their past

I’m so deeply touched by you and your story. I was brought to tears because I could hear your pain, and found myself smiling because I could see and hear your excitement. God Bless you. Stay strong. Life’s certainly not perfect. You’re not alone. You’re inspiration. I can picture you speaking to kids and inspiring many. You’re real and I admire you for it. Keep up the good work.

"I don't feel that it's right that you look _up_ to me, rather look _over_ to me. *I'm standing right beside you."* 😭 - Joey Mullen

Joey I've been watching you for about 3 yrs now and I had seen this video pop up but never watched it. You have a one of a kind story the way you turned your life around is amazing. You didn't even know the hidden talents you had which is also amazing. Thank you for sharing your story with us I'm so happy for you and glad you found a positive path. Keep up the great work Joey.

I have a very dark past as well and was so sure at a very young age that my life was over and that every day leading up to the end would be just as unbearable as the last. I discovered an interest in science and research. Slowly I got my life on track and am now in my first year of a very prestigious PhD program. I'm surrounded everyday by people who have had good lives and have made all the right decisions and it can be alienating at times. I take a lot of solace in knowing there are happy and successful people out there who come from similarly dark backgrounds/environments. It's important to embrace the past because it is not only a source of confidence (of what we can overcome) but an incredibe source of empathy and optimism for others who are struggling. Thanks for the vid man.

I have so much respect for you Joey!!!!! For coming out and letting people know the life of hard knocks you had, not everyone is lucky enough to get out Not only do you help people with the aquariums and stuff you do, this will inspire ANYONE that they have a choice in life, and anyone can change for the better!! Love and respect to you Joey!!!!! Chin up brother

“Don’t look up to me, look over to me because I’m right next to you” IM CRYING REAL TEARS😭 I’m so proud of you

I know so many people out there can relate with some part of this. Sometimes the only thing we can do in a day is get up and take care of our fish (or other animals). It gives us purpose to take care of something other than oneself, and for many that's a part of recovery from addiction, abuse, and/or trauma. Its wonderful that you are a shining example of someone who has been able to make a life from your catharsis. Bravo!

I don’t know what else to say besides, thank you for sharing this personal story with us. I can’t express how amazing it is when someone can truly tell their story, no matter the story’s circumstances. Because there is always someone who can relate, even a little bit. Just, thank you so so much. You are truly amazing for willing to be this open. 💜 To anyone who may be reading this, things do get better.

You are so Brave to have made this video. Life is all about change and trying to overcome our obstacles. I'm so happy you have your Aquarium outlet... and so happy you share it with us on RU-vid. You help so many :) Plants and Gardening is my escape. that sense of excitement you feel when you are in the aquarium store is what I feel going into a greenhouse... it's Magical :) Onward and upward my friend :)

Damn... I really thought I was alone joey, this brought me to tears because i have a very similar life right now. My father left when i was five forcing my mother to put us up for adoption for financial reasons. But um i just turned 20 today and i have five aquariums and plan on making a company to breed and sell cichlid fishes. Your videos have inspired me to do and think of many things that i could use in this passion i am so damn strong about, i am a late subscriber but you have made my days brighter because with out your awesome diy builds i would not be so inspired and man the setup and verity of fish too are amazing. You also do a great job at teaching me a lot of new things in the hobby.

I just watched this video and it broke my heart. I only discovered your channel a couple of weeks ago when I started getting into the hobby and I've already learned so much from you, from how to build my own aquarium stand to how to properly reseal my tank. I think you are fantastic, I am marveled by your command of knowledge and your ability to recall numbers and dimensions of the top of your head and I LOVE your energy. I love your excitement and I love your scattyness. Keep up the good work, thank you for all the amazing content I get to enjoy and madd respect for how far you've come.

What an accomplishment Joey. CONGRATULATIONS! I have been watching for a while now and I love your content, i actually entered the hobby and became a fish keeper because of you and buddy. The video you posted where the last 5 minutes buddy swims in and out of blue light in a totally dark room just absolutely captivated me. As soon as I finished watching that video I said to myself "I'm keeping fish". Sadly asian arowanna are illegal in the us though. You have opened up a world to me I never knew I would love so much. Hearing your story and where you came from to where you are now is incredible brother, you beat the odds! Not many people get to say that. Watching your viewership climb and getting to witness the thing that saved your life bear you such incredible fruit is just so incredibly inspiring. Thank you so much for allowing us to come along for the ride. I have learned a ton from you and I cant say thank you enough. After watching this video I wear my king of DIY shirt a little prouder lol. Again congratulations, you deserve it. Thank you for all you have done for the hobby, and who knows 10 mill might be around the corner😉

Every sinner has a future, every Saint has a past. Appreciated your story Joey, thank you for sharing.

I visit a young man in jail looking at a 13 year sentence for similar charges. He doesnt have family and wrote to a volunteer organisation I am involved with looking for some compassion. Ive been visiting him for over a year now; he has had one other visitor other than his lawyer. I talk to him about my hobbies, one of which is fishkeeping. Im going to tell him about you. I think it will give him some hope for a full and productive life after release.

A lot of us have relatable stories. Mad respect Joey. Mad respect for putting this out here. I’m sure a lot of us were in tears much of this video as we have been in similar situations. Love to see where you have gone and become. This hobby have saved many lives and it’s crazy to say it that way but it’s so true. I don’t know what I’d do without it. Much love from Kansas US.

What a legend!!! You made it from the bottom and now you are making the best and most popular videos in the world which inspire everyone who watch them. Your videos have inspired me to have tanks again. I even built a stand with watching your videos and now I love it for my 40 gallon reef tank. So thank you for all you do everyday busting your ass to teach us viewers and showing others you can do anything with your mind is set on something.

Hi Joey, I've been watching your videos for about 2 years and never have I posted anything; however, I just want to say you have much of my respect and sympathy, and I am proud of you. To know where you could have been and where you are now is amazing and very inspirational. I also want you to know I dont think any less of you and I am sure many of us feel the same. We all love you Joey and not because your videos (although they are amazing) but your character is very energetic and exciting and I look forward to your videos it's a highlight of my day : )

Good on you man. When I was in rehab they said you will need to replace your addiction with another, you just have to make sure its one that wont be harmful. There were two fish in a tank at by house a drug dealer left there and I thought, I will look after those fish. The things you think up when you are sober hahaha ;) Thats how I got into the hobby, rehab and abandoned fish hahaha. keep up the good work man.

Joey, we're all sat in isolation. It's time for part 2. Share with the world what it took and your success story, the world needs some inspiration. Watched this when you shared it and several times since

Love your honesty... 2005 my daughter of 21 one evening found her high school sweet heart and live in boyfriend.. 2003 she found himself in the barn using a sawed off shotgun... it was unbearable for her.. she survived till 2005 and took her own life ... I came to drinking a lot.. until I quit.. and the fish saved my life as well !!!! It’s a long story short !! Thanks for sharing

I was searching for help to build an Aquarium but I ended up watching this video for 30 mins. Much respect!

Thank you Joey. You rock man. Thank god you became then man your are now. You were meant to be the KING OF DIY!!!!! Keep on this path brother, great things are. on the way! I appreciate you sharing your story. Change is never easy, but sometimes necessary. Your videos mean a lot to me, and the rest of your subscribers. Additionally your videos have taught me so much about the hobby. You are the reason that I have been able to take care of a red ear slider for the last 6 years. I've learned so much from you and I truly appreciate your passion and consistency in sharing your knowledge. Thank you.

Hat off to Tanya, Really polished a diamond out of you man. Keep at it. I watch your videos. I do not comment alot. But that 1up will be coming. You are the best of RU-vid at this point. And no worries. I know you did not want the looking up to you part, But I do and I think some still do. And that is because....... You made it man, you got out. (Ofc you can't change in a day) But as you said. You have kids, you support this hobby. And you sure made me realise how complex Fishkeeping can be and how much fun it is. I look up to you because you started doing this with no backup or support, and kept at it until it started working and that 1mil plaque came. That is respectable man.

I'm stilling looking up to you...YOU HAVE HELPED ME AND IM SURE MANY OTHERS SO MUCH WITH YOUR VIDEOS....All you did in this video was remind us that you're human first and a icon second. You dont worry about criticism...WHERE YOU COME FROM AND WHAT WE GO THROUGH MAKES US WHO WE ARE TODAY ....I too am Vet living with PTSD and if it were not for you and your comrades I would be a wreck......THANKS FOR ALL THAT YOU DO!!!!

I like how everybody commends Joey ignoring the "real" hero of the story... His wife! Congrats to her for her patience and seeing the real potential of her husband despite all the circumstances.

You have opened up my eyes to the aquarium hobby. I also suffer from severe anxiety and depression and also a severe panic disorder. Your videos have given me inspiration to have my own aquariums. I agree with you completely it helps with everything. I can actually function in my everyday life now because I know I have something to do and come home to. Thank you for this video even though I’m just finding it now. Thank you for what you do.

After hearing what you have been through, and remembering in a recent video when your daughter said, "You're like the crazy cat lady but with fish." I just have to laugh. To go through what you have gone through and now you are compared to a little, widowed woman who feeds the neighborhood cats just makes me giggle!. Life is a crazy ride. We enjoy your videos and if you keep making them we'll keep watching. Thank you for teaching us and for sharing this hobby with us.

My fish hobby started when I was struggling to stay sober and struggling with depression. My fish was what kept me alive as I knew they needed me. Big props on sharing your story

My 16 year old son was killed in a car accident and aquariums came into my life soon after. The distraction and serenity of sitting and watching my fish has helped me through some dark days. God bless you and keep your hands wet!

I respect you so much for baring your heart and telling us your story. I have been a probation officer for 18 years and have literally heard or read some of the most egregious acts over my time. As a PO, you come across those who are willing to put in the work to make positive changes and those who don’t. You sir are the epitome of putting in work!!! Although we don’t know each other personally, I had to say I’m proud of you. Thanks for being open and honest and proving light can come from darkness!!

You are living proof that people can change, and that there is good at the core of every person. You turned yourself and your life around. For yourself. For your family. Your children are so lucky to have a father like you. Also, f* those people who make fun of you for being excited. That is such a ridiculous reason... Are you going to therapy? PS. It's okay to cry.

Thank you for sharing this. I really enjoyed watching. More people need to share their stories in this life, because we all have one. I worked in a prison as a nurse & met so many guys who I could tell have great hearts (better than most of the admin working there!), but they just went down the wrong path based on how they were raised, etc.. I did, too, for a while & glad I saved myself. God bless you, glad you found a hobby like this. My kiddos, husband & love for travel, nature & photography helped me find my reason for living. Take care!!

Much respect for you sharing your story. You are not your past . You aren't the same person you were years, months, even days ago. It's all in how you grow and make yourself better. I have been in the same boat with prison. And it is a a constant battle to grow and change and make yourself a better person. I am so glad you found something to change and save your life but have never forgotten where you came from! Your videos are are inspiring! You are amazing ! So much respect!

Just wanted to drop in and say thank you for everything you do for the hobby. Started watching your videos when you were building acrylic trickle filters in your living room using bio balls, I think that was around 2012 2013 possibly. You helped me progress in the hobby and gave me very happy fish for a few years. Until I started losing my site. Ended up having to get out of the hobby because I was afraid of endangering the fish with me not being able to Monitor them. To this day though I still listen to your videos. Your personality helped me get through the PTSD and depression of going blind. Hope you see this and keep the love and Enthusiastic attitude you have towards your aquariums, they helped me get through a lot.

"Don't look up to me, I'm standing right beside you." I think it was the best statement you said Joey. Thank you for being honest with all of us. Your past is your past. You have already been there. Look to your future, that is where you are headed!!!

You Sir are an absolute legend. And your wife is too. She is an angel who has saved your life. And you both deserve a life time of happiness.

Joey I have been watching your video's for several years, and in those years of watching you I have never once seen you as the person you describe yourself as. It takes a lot of guts for anyone to admit to stuff like that and you have gained nothing but respect from me. Your past does not depict who you are today and there is proof of that in the smiles on your families faces.

Some of my most beautiful tanks were all immediately after some tragedy in life. Parents splitting up, being on probation, divorce, death, more divorce, more death....Being able to pour yourself, almost literally, into another world, a beautiful, simple world, having that control and seeing what your efforts produced is why I have 3 tanks, watch this and other's channels all day, and haven't become human debris or taken myself out of the entire equation. Thanks for this video, all your videos. I had a sneaking suspicion most of us fish-nuts were actually survivors and recoverers. God Bless, keep pumping out vids.

Probably the realest video on the internet ringht now salute

I'm 36. Been watching you for years. Never commented. Real video right there! Thank you for sharing Joey!

THIS IS THE BEST VIDEO OF THIS CHANNEL !! respect to you for keep remembering your past and failure and encourage other s for their upcoming days. and i need to appreciate you to be bold enough to share all these and also your wife, to be with you in all your troublesome days and guide you for a better life. infect i would give a BIG THANKS to your wife to present us the King of DIY. because of her, we have got you and having all our inspirations. by the way, we are still waiting about your visit plan for Bangladesh.

I just subscribed to your channel a few days ago. I’ve seen a few of your videos. I’ve been in the hobby for about 4 years now. I am just now starting to set up a freshwater planted aquarium. I’ve had reef aquariums up to now. But, I just wanna say with this video I just watched, I applaud you and give you much respect man. I’m glad you changed your life around and that aquariums helped you do it. Congrats for having over a million subscribers. Much deserved. Keep up the great and helpful videos. Following you all the way from South Florida. (Miami) 👍🏻👍🏻

I'm kind of speechless. I surly didn't expect that. Just for your information: your videos inspired me long before this confession video. Your past is a part of what you are today, and I really like what I see now. So it doesn't really matter... Your honesty and authenticity touches so deep. Non of the RU-vidrs have done this to me before. Incredible. I send you a hug. A big one!