We recently connected with Terry Carney Sr. and have shared our conversation below.

Terry, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to have you retell us the story behind how you came up with the idea for your business, I think our audience would really enjoy hearing the backstory.

The concept for my documentary, titled “Put the Guns Down: A World Epidemic,” emerged from a deep concern for the alarming number of young lives being lost in South Central Los Angeles. Witnessing the devastating impact of gun violence on our community, I felt compelled to create a film that would encourage young people to pause and reflect before resorting to violence. The documentary aims to shed light on the harsh realities of gun-related incidents, fostering a dialogue that emphasizes the value of life and the importance of making thoughtful choices. By sharing personal stories and insights from those affected by this crisis, I hope to inspire a generation to seek alternatives to violence and to understand the profound consequences of their actions.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

PUT THE GUNS DOWN: A WORLD EPIDEMIC is a compelling documentary that urgently calls for your attention. I am Terry C. Carney Sr., the CEO and Owner of Platinum City Golden West Entertainment and Films, as well as the Creator, Writer, Head Director, Executive Producer, and Head Producer of this significant film, which features the narration and involvement of Ice-T. This documentary explores the critical issue of gun violence in the United States, particularly focusing on South Central Los Angeles. It provides a historical overview that spans from the Watts Rebellion to the crack cocaine epidemic and into contemporary times, emphasizing the personal stories of those who have suffered the loss of loved ones due to this violence. These narratives serve to humanize victims, transforming them from mere statistics into individuals with rich histories and profound connections. One particularly moving account comes from Gilbert Alexander, who recounts his harrowing experience, offering a firsthand perspective on the devastating impact of gun violence. The film also includes insights from prominent figures such as Spice 1, Chilly Chill, and Tha Chill from Compton’s Most Wanted, among others. Beyond personal testimonies, the documentary critically examines the roles of government, community, and mental health in this ongoing crisis, illuminating the emergence of gangs and their effects on Black communities. Through the lens of individual tragedies, the film powerfully illustrates the extensive repercussions of gun violence on countless lives. For further inquiries, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me at Terry C. Carney Sr. at (310)760-6574 or via email at [email protected]. For more information, please visit www.terryccarneysr.com.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Absolutely. My journey began in Denver, Colorado, where I was raised in a household shaped by adversity. My parents did their best to provide a stable home, but survival often took precedence over dreams. After relocating near Oklahoma City, we found ourselves in an environment riddled with crime, drugs, and violence. The reality hit hard—two of my brothers ended up incarcerated for murder. Growing up in that setting could have defined me, but instead, it refined me.

At 15, we moved to Los Angeles. That transition was a turning point. Surrounded by new challenges but also new opportunities, I channeled my pain into purpose. I wrote my first book and began laying the foundation for what would become my lifelong commitment to storytelling and advocacy.

The loss of my friend and collaborator, Nipsey Hussle, was another defining moment. His murder galvanized my mission to address gun violence and mental health through film. That pain turned into purpose again—with Put the Guns Down: A World Epidemic, I’m not just telling a story, I’m fighting for change.

Resilience, for me, is about turning every hardship into a stepping stone—and never letting your circumstances define your legacy.

How did you build your audience on social media?

I didn’t just set out to build a social media following—I set out to build a movement. From the very start of Put the Guns Down: A World Epidemic, I made it clear that this was bigger than me. I reached out to the OGs, survivors, and families featured in the film and asked them to not just be part of the project, but to take ownership of its message. I asked them to share, comment, advocate, and engage—not for likes or views, but to amplify a message that could change lives. That level of community buy-in created something powerful.

Social media for me has never been about chasing trends. It’s about connection. I reply to comments, I repost what others create, and I make sure people feel seen and heard. I use my platform to highlight real stories and real people, not just to market a product or project.

My advice to anyone just starting out? Be intentional. Know what you stand for. And don’t just post—build relationships. People support what they help build, so invite them to build it with you. That’s how you grow something that lasts.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.terryccarneysr.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialterryccarney/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Platinumcitygoldenwest

Image Credits

Marie Gregorio-Oviedo Photographer