Understanding the Unhoused

Joshua (Portales, NM)

UtU 4 Good — Tue, 03 Nov 2026 22:14:42 +0000

Here comes the story of Joshua, a young man who started out unhoused in Oklahoma and went from state to state trying to find a better life. After struggling with addiction for most of his life, he finally got involved with a treatment center in New Mexico and has turned his life around. His story is unique, as all are, but has elements that can apply to anyone experiencing homelessness. Thank you for listening and all your support!

Links mentioned in this episode: https://www.youtube.com/@TylerOliveira

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Cassy (Camp Graves, Mayfield, KY)

UtU 4 Good — Sat, 10 Oct 2026 16:51:31 +0000

After a long hiatus, UtU returns with this discussion with Executive Director Cassy Basham of the good work being done by Camp Graves. Camp Graves is a homeless outreach service that connects those experiencing homelessness in rural Kentucky with temporary housing, services, and the chance to find independence and self-reliance. Cassy & I discuss how the facility started, where their mission comes from and their plan for continuing support for the unhoused in KY. More info on their work can be found at the link below!

Links mentioned in this episode: https://www.campgraves.org/

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Mama G (San Francisco, CA)

UtU 4 Good — Sat, 23 May 2026 21:14:55 +0000

Here comes my chat with Mama G, a resilient, resourceful & resplendent resident of the streets of San Francisco. For over a decade, Mama G has used her various skills to the benefit of anyone she comes across on the streets who is suffering. Now homeless herself, Mama G remains strong & confident in her complete nonjudgmental approach to this life. I hope her story gives you inspiration and hope! Thank you for listening all the way through!

Links mentioned in this episode:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chiari-malformation/symptoms-causes/syc-20354010

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

The Batman (San Jose, CA)

UtU 4 Good — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 04:41:51 +0000

This interview is with the kind-hearted citizen who, after an incident that brought into clear view how people experiencing homelessness are perceived by those around him, decided to don a Batman costume and commit himself to helping however he can. Now with the help of other masked heroes, The Batman provides food, supplies & (most importantly) hope to the Unhoused in and around San Jose, California.

Hear about what inspired his selfless acts for the people around him and the toll it can take when you care so much for people outside the system. Thanks for taking the time to tune in!

Links to help out the cause

Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/BatmanofSanJose?fan_landing=true
Venmo - https://venmo.com/u/Batman-4-Homeless
Cash App - https://cash.app/$BatmanOfSanJose
Amazon Wish List - https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/11TBF4H46M0TK?ref_=wl_share Lights in the Shadows documentary - https://www.mediastorm.com/training/workshops/mediastorm-storytelling-workshop/santa-cruz/lights-in-the-shadows

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Terri (Haven for Hope, San Antonio, TX)

UtU 4 Good — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 03:56:08 +0000

Terri, Director of Communications at Haven for Hope in San Antonio, TX, shares how their expansive campus operates on 'radical compassion.' They’re committed to serving people with the respect and dignity everyone deserves—because, as they say, we’re all human, and everyone deserves a chance to rise again.

Hear how Haven for Hope got started, the myriad of ways it helps people every day, as well as the challenges they face in this political climate. Be sure you visit their website here while listening to really feel that sense of wonder. Thank you listening and supporting Understanding the Unhoused!

Links mentioned in this episode: https://www.havenforhope.org/ https://myfaithkitchen.org/ https://safoodbank.org/ https://www.payitforwardsa.org/

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Michael (San Francisco, CA)

UtU 4 Good — Sun, 08 Feb 2026 00:45:59 +0000

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.

Links mentioned in this episode: https://urban-alchemy.us/

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Mary Theroux (Beyond Homeless)

UtU 4 Good — Sat, 20 Dec 2025 18:23:03 +0000

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!

Links mentioned in this episode:

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Andrew (Santa Fe, NM)

UtU 4 Good — Sun, 16 Nov 2025 20:57:04 +0000

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: Safe Outdoor Spaces

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Lee (San Pedro, CA)

UtU 4 Good — Sun, 26 Oct 2025 03:24:01 +0000

In this powerful interview, 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

Tompson (Colorado Springs, CO)

UtU 4 Good — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 01:55:19 +0000

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 tompson.stanger.assisting@gmail.com. Thank you for listening!

Links mentioned in this episode: Paris Hilton wants to shut down PCS Provo Canyon School

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Darryl (Oklahoma City, OK)

UtU 4 Good — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 17:43:51 +0000

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 Western Museum

OK City Rescue Mission

The Daryl Savell Story short film

OK Commission on Children & Youth

http://second-example.com

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Jill (Salt Lake City, UT)

UtU 4 Good — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 02:10:15 +0000

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

Amanda (Hartford, CT)

UtU 4 Good — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 04:38:47 +0000

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: https://instituteofliving.org/programs-services/the-webb-school-programs/the-grace-s-webb-school https://cash.app/

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Robin (San Jose, CA)

UtU 4 Good — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 01:19:46 +0000

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: http://www.abode.org http://www.healthtrust.org

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Shevvy (Brunswick, ME)

UtU 4 Good — Sat, 07 Dec 2024 02:18:06 +0000

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

Ali (Kalamazoo, MI)

UtU 4 Good — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 21:31:10 +0000

And here comes the story of Ali, an unhoused person who is also blind and partially deaf. He tells me about what brought him to his situation, why Kalamazoo is the best possbile place to be blind, and the horrors of family and what keeps him looking forward. Hope you find his story inspiring! If you feel called to help personally, his Cash app handle is $alimayz93. Thank you for your generosity!

Links mentioned in this episode: https://www.michigan.gov/leo/bureaus-agencies/bureau-of-services-for-blind-persons/bsbp-training-center/overview/the-bureau-of-services-for-blind-persons-training-center-269-337-3848

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Cyrus (Lufkin, TX)

UtU 4 Good — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 00:43:37 +0000

I talk with Cyrus, who reached out to me via the r/homeless Subreddit, about their life in a terrible part of Texas, being unhoused and living with POTS. Despite their many struggles their attitude remains hopeful. If you would like to donate to make things a little easier for them, their Cash App handle is $GreenGremlin22. Thank you for listening!

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Andi & Kelly (GROW Concord), Part Two

UtU 4 Good — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 00:22:58 +0000

The second part of my two-part interview with Kelly & Andi, the founders of GROW (Grass Roots Outreach Warriors) Concord, a group trying to help the unhoused in and around Concord, CA. In this episode they discuss how the work affects their lives, the complicated process of cities enacting legislation for homeless services, and their successes with the program. Thanks for listening!

https://www.growconcord.com/

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Andi & Kelly (GROW Concord), Part One

UtU 4 Good — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 20:15:03 +0000

The first part of a two-part interview with Kelly & Andi, the founders of GROW (Grass Roots Outreach Warriors) Concord, a group trying to help the unhoused in and around Concord, CA. The ladies discuss how they met, why they choose to do this work, and the overall state of help for the homeless in this country. Thanks for listening!

GROWconcord.com

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Alexis (Rochester, NY)

UtU 4 Good — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 04:15:29 +0000

Alexis is the first interview I've conducted with someone out of state, but as you can imagine her story is no less heartbreaking for it. Tune in to hear the dangers she and her friend face living in their car, in the cold, without support. After listening if you'd like to help Alexis directly you can send whatever you're comfortable with to her via Venmo (@Alexis-Gothberg) or Cash ($AlexisGo13). Thank you advance for your generosity!

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Tammy (San Leandro, CA)

UtU 4 Good — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 22:55:22 +0000

The latest episode of Understanding the Unhoused is with Tammy, a person working in the homeless services industry trying to bring an end to homelessness. Tammy's had a lot of struggle in her life and has overcome many obstacles in her way to get to where she is today. I hope her story can serve as inspiration to those listening. Thank you for taking the time to put your ears to this episode and for your continued support of Understanding the Unhoused!

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Betty (Oakland, CA)

UtU 4 Good — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 05:05:15 +0000

In this episode I talk to Betty, a woman I met at a food bank who makes the best out of living in a unique situation. Her story is tragic but full of hope. Please give it a listen, and reach out via UnderstandingtheUnhoused.org if you'd like to know how you can help directly. Thank you for listening!

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Heather (Concord, CA)

UtU 4 Good — Thu, 04 Jan 2024 06:05:18 +0000

In the latest episode I talk with Heather, an unhoused artist in Concord, CA. During our talk to speaks of the circumstances that led her to be unhoused, what her day-to-day is like and how she stays hopeful. If you want to help Heather directly, you can use her handle on CashApp ($headonbabies5) to help with food & supplies for her and her dogs. Thank you for listening!

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Bob (San Francisco, CA)

UtU 4 Good — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 04:54:35 +0000

It took longer than I'd like, but episode 6 is now live! The story of Bob, a current unhoused San Franciscan. He recounts the reasons for his unhoused status, the problem with the homeless system, and gives advice for those who are facing potential homelessness.

For this episode I recorded a new intro and outro, but the music is the same (thanks again Jordan Feinstein!). My hope is you will listen all the way through to get the full story. Thank you!

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Nichole (Concord, CA)

UtU 4 Good — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 03:41:12 +0000

Nichole is an unhoused woman living in Concord, trying to get through each day, plauged by health issues and a justified distrust for those living with the simliar struggles. She manages to remain hopeful and outgoing despite all she's has been through. Thanks for listening!

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Mike (San Francisco, CA)

UtU 4 Good — Wed, 02 Aug 2023 03:41:42 +0000

We hope you can appreciate and empathsize with the struggle this Mike goes through on the streets of San Francisco every day.

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Nathaniel (San Francisco, CA)

UtU 4 Good — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 01:00:30 +0000

Latest episode with Nathaniel, who I ran into on the streets of San Francisco. He tells me about the trials & tribulations that got him into homelessness and the work he is doing to get out of it.

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Teyote (Fremont, CA)

UtU 4 Good — Mon, 01 May 2023 01:02:47 +0000

Teyote has been unhoused for a number of years and has an interesting outlook on lots of topics. This interview is only a small sampling!

Irene (Fremont, CA)

UtU 4 Good — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 19:24:31 +0000

My first interview for UtU; Irene, a woman who has been unhoused for decades. She is the de facto leader of an encampment in Fremont, CA and her story is fascinating. Thank you for listening!

This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm

Understanding the Unhoused

Joshua (Portales, NM)

Cassy (Camp Graves, Mayfield, KY)

Mama G (San Francisco, CA)

The Batman (San Jose, CA)

Amazon Wish List - https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/11TBF4H46M0TK?ref_=wl_share Lights in the Shadows documentary - https://www.mediastorm.com/training/workshops/mediastorm-storytelling-workshop/santa-cruz/lights-in-the-shadows

Terri (Haven for Hope, San Antonio, TX)

Michael (San Francisco, CA)

Mary Theroux (Beyond Homeless)

Andrew (Santa Fe, NM)

Lee (San Pedro, CA)

Tompson (Colorado Springs, CO)

Darryl (Oklahoma City, OK)

Jill (Salt Lake City, UT)

Amanda (Hartford, CT)

Robin (San Jose, CA)

Shevvy (Brunswick, ME)

Ali (Kalamazoo, MI)

Cyrus (Lufkin, TX)

Andi & Kelly (GROW Concord), Part Two

Andi & Kelly (GROW Concord), Part One

Alexis (Rochester, NY)

Tammy (San Leandro, CA)

Betty (Oakland, CA)

Heather (Concord, CA)

Bob (San Francisco, CA)

Nichole (Concord, CA)

Mike (San Francisco, CA)

We hope you can appreciate and empathsize with the struggle this Mike goes through on the streets of San Francisco every day.

Nathaniel (San Francisco, CA)

Teyote (Fremont, CA)

Irene (Fremont, CA)

My first interview for UtU; Irene, a woman who has been unhoused for decades. She is the de facto leader of an encampment in Fremont, CA and her story is fascinating. Thank you for listening!