What's it like being slapped by a rapper or begging for food while living on the streets? Documentary filmmaker Andrew Jenks knows. He lived it.

In his new MTV series World of Jenks (Monday, 10/9c), the 24-year-old filmed the lives of 12 very different individuals, immersing himself in each of their worlds. Jenks spoke to TVGuide.com about how he was able to understand how someone like rap star Maino, who has spent time in jail and on the streets, become an inspiration to his hometown, or why a girl nicknamed Heavy D chooses to be homeless. Plus: Jenks reveals the toughest moment to shoot.