A longtime San Francisco resident shares his journey from stability to homelessness, a path he says was paved by corporate greed. Hear his powerful firsthand account of how systemic forces upended his life. Michael was forced out to make sure the Subway in his building stayed in business, among other issues. His story is far too common in today's world, I respect his resilience in the face of many hardships.

*Please note, I was not able to get a pic of Michael; the picture used is different person experiencing homelessness.

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This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In a UtU first, I sit down with Mary Theroux, editor of the new book Beyond Homeless: Good Intentions, Bad Outcomes, Transformative Solutions. Moving beyond critiquing current approaches, this book highlights innovative solutions from cities and organizations making a real impact for people experiencing homelessness. Through our engaging discussion, we explore what's working, what's not, and how to bridge the gap. Be inspired to discover potential solutions in your own community! Thank your for listening! Get the book at the link below!

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This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Join us as we delve into Andrew's powerful narrative, a young man from Santa Fe, NM who has faced numerous challenges. Despite hardships, he has found solace in his faith and a path out of homelessness. His story, filled with unexpected twists and turns, including more than two dozen visits to rehab, is a testament to personal growth and resilience. Listen in and be inspired by Andrew's hopeful journey!

Links mentioned in this episode:

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In this powerful episode, we meet Lee, a courageous woman who has endured 12 years of homelessness, living on the streets and in her car. Facing challenges such as lack of family support and abusive relationships, Lee remains a beacon of resilience and hope. Driven by her desire to assist others in similar circumstances, her strength and determination are infectious. Listen in and be inspired to make a difference in the lives of unhoused individuals in your community. Don't miss her moving and motivational story!

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

For the 20th episode of UtU, I present the story of Tompson. He is living in Colorado, working through the traumas of growing up in an abusive household, being taken advantage of by those closest to him, and trying to be a good father to his baby girl. Tompson's interview was a long one, so I edited the best I could to make sure his truth is spoken clearly.

Tompson has is working on his journey of being a personal assistant for life, helping people with budgeting, groceries, and other every day tasks. If you're interested in what he has to offer, you can email him at [email protected]. Thank you for listening!

Links mentioned in this episode:

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

For the 19th episode of Understanding the Unhoused, I talk with Oklahoma City's first parental advisor for the Homeless Commission, OK Commission on Children & Youth, Daryl Savell. He goes into the work he did getting away from drugs & alcohol, dying and being brought back to life and what he is doing to help the homeless children of Oklahoma. Hopefully you will find his story uplifiting & inspiring!

Links mentioned in this episode:

OK City Rescue Mission

The Daryl Savell Story short film

OK Commission on Children & Youth

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Jill and I discuss just how quickly homelessness can happen to anyone. She & her husband were both working, scrapping by day to day, and then the thing that has put so many people into homelessness, greed, reared it's ugly face.

There is frustration but hope within Jill and if, after hearing her story you feel called to help directly, her Venmo handle is @Jill-SanJule. Thank you for your generosity!

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Here comes the story of Amanda, who had to leave home at a young age and has been struggling ever since. She's one of the working homeless, an even less discussed group of individuals who can't afford a place of their own, despite employment. Her struggles with family dynamics and mental health make for a more difficult situation, but she's determined to get out. Thank you for listening!

If you'd like to contribute to Amanda directly, her Cash handle is $mndybsstt. Your empathy is appreciated!

Links mentioned in this episode:

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Here comes my in-person chat with Robin, a formerly homeless woman who is using her lived experience and skills in moderation to keep an eye on the r/Homeless subreddit! She sat down with me in her hometown of San Jose to discuss the years she was unhoused, how she managed to make it through that with her sanity intact, and how she ultimately got out. Thank you for the time you will give to listen to her story!

Links mentioned in this episode:

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

In here is the story of Shevvy from Brunswick, Maine. He started out in Augusta, but is finally feeling some peace in Brunswick, and has some thoughts on the system in our frank and open discussion about his daily life. He's still struggling but can see a light at the end... If, after listening, you are called to help in some way, the best way is directly. His cash app handle is @Prodyonidae. Thank you for your generosity!

https://understanding-the-unhoused.zencast.website/episodes/shevvy-brunswick-me

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm