This episode was recorded live at Open Table Nashville's 2023 Annual Fundraiser. In this episode Michael shares his story with special guest moderator Khalil Ekulona. Michael discusses his early family life as well as his experiences living on the streets and the long process of getting housing.

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Amanda joins Edward to talk about the military, family, and her experience with homelessness. Amanda is a former Marine who comes from a big family of veterans. Amanda discusses her complex relationship with her family and how a falling out with sibling ended with her living on the streets. She also speaks on the country's treatment of veterans and how we can respect and care for one another.

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Darrell joins Edward to share about his experiences in the foster care system, his time in prison, and his struggle with mental illness. He speaks on the treatment of those living with mental illness and how important it is to teach and learn de-escalation practices. He also shares his passions for art, writing, and taking care of the planet.

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Content warning: discussions of domestic violence

Sally walks Edward through her journey of accepting God into her life and the ways he has shown up in her life since then. She tells stories of her loving family, her time in jail, and her experience of applying for MDHA housing, all the while longing to share God's love and give back to others who are lost.

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Content warning: This episode contains discussions of substance use disorder and domestic violence.

Angie tells her story of survival, resilience, and empathy as she shares about her experiences living in different camps throughout Nashville and the aftermath of her home encampment being closed. Angie also discusses the impact of witnessing and experiencing the effects of substance use disorder and domestic abuse.

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Benjamin (also known as BJ) tells Edward about the life-altering moments that left him living on the streets and the struggles he continues to face experiencing homelessness. After going through a divorce, a severe injury, and the brutal effects of the 2020 Nashville tornado and the COVID pandemic, Ben was left without a job or a home. He speaks how these events have impacted him both physically and emotionally as someone who grew up with high expectations of himself and high standards of success.

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Michael sits down with Open Table Nashville outreach coordinator Edward to recount how he became the target of a scam that left him in legal trouble in the midst of experiencing homelessness. He speaks out against job scammers preying those who are homeless and the harsh impacts of the corrupt judicial system.

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Learn more about how to get involved at https://opentablenashville.org/