Renaldo McKenzie (Host):Welcome back to The Neoliberal Round, where we unpack bold ideas, uncomfortable truths, and complex questions at the intersection of policy, politics, and people. Today’s topic? Ending homelessness. That’s right—ending it. Not reducing. Not managing. Ending.

It’s a lofty goal in a neoliberal capitalist world where greed, inequality, and competition often leave the most vulnerable behind. But one city commissioner and hotelier is proposing an unconventional solution—and whether you agree or not, it’s an idea that’s making waves. Joining us today is Claudio Bono, Commissioner for the City of Cupertino, hotel entrepreneur, nonprofit veteran, and founder of GiveARoof.org. He’s tweeted his support for Trump’s cuts to homelessness programs—yes, that Trump—which immediately drew fire from progressives. But Claudio says those cuts didn’t inspire cruelty in him—they inspired creativity. So… could his airline points-based housing model be the spark we need—or is this just another swing in the dark? Let’s find out.

🎤 INTERVIEW BEGINS: Renaldo McKenzie: Claudio, welcome to The Neoliberal Round. Let's start with the basics—Who is Claudio Bono, and what's your plan to end homelessness?

Renaldo McKenzie: Now Claudio, let’s address the elephant in the room: the Trump tweet. Nikki wrote: “Dude, when they cut homelessness spending, it's cause this admin don't give a flying f**k about the homeless.”

Joe added: “You can applaud Trump all you want about the cuts, but he’s not doing it to solve a problem—he’s just being mean.”What’s your response? What made you see opportunity where others saw cruelty?

Renaldo McKenzie: Let’s dive into the proposal. One person asked: “You want to fix homelessness by using people’s airline loyalty points?” That sounds… unconventional. Can you explain how that would even work?

Renaldo McKenzie: Brian added to the discussion, saying: “I appreciate your innovative thinking. However, it appears to be the same path with just different funding sources. Not to mention, turning travel points into negative cash flow for companies.”You responded: “Not true. You didn’t hear the whole plan.” So tell us—what is the whole plan?

Renaldo McKenzie: Let’s talk transparency. Kandid wrote: “The model is already in place under Habitat for Humanity. I’m highly suspicious of GiveARoof.org. Please give me a breakdown of CEO pay and admin costs.” And you answered: “CEO: Me. Pay: Zero. Plus 11 years volunteer in nonprofits.” But how does your structure avoid the same pitfalls as other nonprofit housing efforts? What’s the real difference?Renaldo McKenzie: Michael jumped in with a summary of your claims: “Your program includes giving medical, D/A programs, providing shelter and housing, meals, jobs—you said yes… explain some more.” Is this similar to something like Philly’s recovery houses for the homeless affected by addiction and mental health?

Renaldo McKenzie: One last question from our listeners: What about Pay-It-Forward? Is there a way to build in a system where people who benefit from Give A Roof can give back—through miles, mentoring, or volunteerism?

🎙️ OUTRO: Renaldo McKenzie: That’s it for today’s episode. You’ve heard the vision, the backlash, the facts—and the fire. Is Claudio Bono a disruptor with a real shot at transforming how we fund solutions to homelessness? Or is this just another utopian blueprint lost in corporate red tape Whatever your verdict, one thing’s for sure—we need more bold ideas and fewer tired excuses. Claudio, thank you for joining us. Where can people learn more or support GiveARoof.org? And to all our listeners: If you enjoyed the show, leave a review, subscribe, and share. Until next time, stay aware, stay active, and stay Neoliberal—but reimagined.

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