In Episode 8 of Season 2 of the Imagine Dignity Podcast, I sat down with Miss. Pinky, a woman whose heart for serving others shines even through her own hardships.

Miss. Pinky shared her powerful story of becoming unhoused as a senior citizen after experiencing mistreatment by a landlord who made repairs to her home and then forced her out—without warning while she was away.

Despite facing homelessness herself, Miss. Pinky continued her ministry, serving and loving others in the streets of Greenville, South Carolina.

She spoke about the importance of visibility, dignity, and servant leadership, and how critical it is for more people to step up and care for the community around them.

With 45 years of community service under her belt, Miss. Pinky’s story is a reminder that generosity, compassion, and commitment to others can become hope even in the toughest times. Her dream to do more for Greenville is a call for all of us to see and serve those who are often overlooked.

Watch YouTube Video Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[HERE]

In Episode 7 of Season 2 of the Imagine Dignity Podcast, I sat down with Saleem, a brother I met in Greenville, South Carolina, and the brother of Danny (Episode 6). Saleem shared his powerful journey of battling addiction, beginning with being exposed to drugs by his uncle and mother at just 16 years old.

Throughout our conversation, Saleem opened up about his struggles with addiction, the impact it had on his life—including time spent in prison and the loss of his family—and the courage it took to begin reclaiming his life. One of the most moving moments of the podcast was when Saleem, in real time, forgave his late uncle on the show, making a powerful commitment to healing and pressing forward.

Building a friendship with Saleem and hearing his honesty reminded me how much people carry from childhood experiences—and how critical it is that we offer more support and resources for those battling addiction. Saleem’s story is a raw and inspiring reminder of the strength it takes to break free and choose a new path.

Watch YouTube Video Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[HERE]

In Episode 6 of Season 2 of the Imagine Dignity Podcast, I sat down with Danny, a man I met in Greenville, South Carolina, whose story immediately struck me. Danny opened up about how moving from another state to be closer to family unexpectedly led to homelessness—and how, through it all, loyalty, faith, and community remain at the center of his life.

What stood out most was Danny’s ability to listen to and support others in his community, even while navigating his own hardships. He shared how a local church allows him to use their address for mail, the physical toll of having to camp out overnight just to wash clothes, and how limited resources in the area make it difficult for many to get consistent help.

Danny’s honesty about his challenges, combined with his deep sense of love for family and community, is a reminder of the quiet strength found in so many who are unhoused. His story speaks to the power of dignity, compassion, and the need for more support systems for those in need.

Watch YouTube Video Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[HERE]

In Episode 5 of Season 2 of the Imagine Dignity Podcast, I sat down with Andre, a brother I met in Greenville, South Carolina, who never thought he would become homeless.

After a family breakdown, he suddenly found himself on the streets, struggling to navigate a system full of barriers. Andre opened up about the reality that homelessness can affect anyone, regardless of race, and how those with disabilities are often taken advantage of.

He also spoke about the lack of education and resources that could empower people experiencing homelessness, as well as the difficulty of securing housing without an ID.

Through it all, Andre remains committed to working and trying to rebuild his life, despite the daily challenges of survival and trust.

His story challenges myths about homelessness and reminds us that many people don’t choose this path—it happens due to circumstances beyond their control.

Watch YouTube Video Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[HERE]

In Episode 4 of Season 2 of the Imagine Dignity Podcast, I sat down with Stacey, a woman I met in Greenville, South Carolina, who lives in a motel but still experiences the reality of homelessness. Without a stable home, Stacey finds herself in a transient state—having a place to stay, but lacking security, community, and stability. She shared how motel policies prevent her from building a sense of belonging where she stays, which is why she chooses to spend time with people experiencing homelessness on the streets. Stacey also opened up about the pain of losing her mother and the challenges of living with a disability. Her story is a reminder that homelessness isn’t just about being on the streets—it’s also about the instability of not having a permanent place to call home. Stacey’s journey highlights the deep need for community, understanding, and compassion for those living in uncertain housing situations.

Watch YouTube Video Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[HERE]

In Episode 3 of Season 2 of the Imagine Dignity Podcast, I sat down with Akeem, a young veteran who became unhoused in Greenville, South Carolina, after a family disruption. Akeem shared the heartbreak of being separated from his children and the challenges of navigating homelessness for the first time. Through a simple yet powerful act—providing him with a cellphone after he lost his—we were able to help Akeem reconnect with his kids. What stood out most about Akeem was his respect, his heart, and his unwavering faith. His character and resilience will undoubtedly play a key role in helping him overcome homelessness. His story is a powerful reminder of the struggles young veterans face when returning to civilian life, and the importance of supporting them through challenges like homelessness.

Watch YouTube Video Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[HERE]

In Episode 2 of Season 2 of the Imagine Dignity Podcast, I talked with Elford, who became unhoused after losing his job. I met Elford in Greenville, South Carolina, where he shared his journey of facing homelessness after being laid off (August 2024) and moving in search of new opportunities. Elford opened up about the challenges of securing shelter in his home state due to residency rules, the struggles of rebuilding his life, and how his faith keeps him moving forward. In that moment, Elford and I formed a connection that turned into a friendship, and I now consider him a brother. When we spoke, he was living in a shelter, working, and determined to stand on his feet for himself and his daughter. Elford’s story reminds us that homelessness can happen to anyone and that dignity, resilience, and human connection shine through even in the most challenging times.

Watch YouTube Video Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[HERE]

Norman was the first person I met while in Greenville, SC. He was sleeping on a cold public bench less than 75 steps from the Mayor’s office. When I first met him, we sat and talked, and he expressed his desire to share his story on the Imagine Dignity Podcast. In this episode, Norman opens up about his journey into homelessness, his ongoing self-advocacy as he seeks to engage with political leaders, and the hidden realities of homelessness in a city where $600-a-night hotel rooms stand in stark contrast to his life on a bench. He also shares the challenges of being treated with disrespect by people who don’t look like him, even after suffering a stroke. What stands out most from Norman’s story is the importance of voice. Through his advocacy, he reminds us that being unhoused does not mean being voiceless—and that we must work to ensure every voice is heard. I am grateful to share Episode 1 of Season 2 of the Imagine Dignity Podcast this Christmas, 2024.

Watch YouTube Video Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[HERE]