99% Invisible

Kate Cody, a resilient woman living in a Berkeley homeless encampment, shares her powerful journey with homelessness. She sheds light on the complexities of transitioning to stable housing, highlighting the deep-rooted system failures that often leave people stranded. Cody discusses the emotional toll of eviction cycles and the strength found within her community. The conversation underscores the urgent need for effective solutions to address homelessness, all while celebrating the tenacity and spirit of those affected.

Explore the tangled web of housing assistance and the challenges faced by individuals like Tulicia Lee navigating a bureaucratic maze. Discover how prioritization within flawed systems can mean the difference between stability and continued homelessness. Delve into the emotional weight carried by frontline workers pressed against systemic inadequacies. The conversation highlights the urgent need for comprehensive solutions and increased affordable housing to tackle the roots of homelessness head-on.

Sam Tsemberis, a psychologist who transformed approaches to homelessness in New York City, shares his revolutionary Housing First model. He recounts the struggles of individuals experiencing homelessness and the importance of understanding their specific needs. Tsemberis highlights the shift towards compassionate support, illustrating how immediate access to housing—without prerequisites—has changed lives. The conversation also touches on the ongoing challenges within the system, including funding shortages and the impact of structural racism on homelessness.

Katie Mingle, a dedicated reporter, spent a day in the 211 call center to investigate how this service supports those facing homelessness. She uncovers the emotional toll on both callers and operators navigating bureaucratic barriers. The stories of individuals seeking help, including a mother and her child, highlight the complexities of the system. Mingle also delves into the moral dilemmas faced by hotline workers and the systemic struggles that hinder effective aid, revealing a pressing need for transformation in homelessness assistance.

Talisha Lee, a resilient mother from Oakland, shares her poignant journey of experiencing homelessness with her son, Jordan, as they lived in their car. She discusses the hidden struggles of securing stable housing and the emotional toll it takes on families. Talisha reflects on her past traumas and the vital support from Trish Anderson, a McKinney-Vento liaison, who helps navigate the chaotic system. Her story highlights the often-invisible realities of homelessness and the overwhelming hope that fuels her fight for a better future.

Homelessness in California is explored through personal and heartbreaking stories that challenge stereotypes. A speaker reflects on their own encounters in a gentrifying neighborhood, revealing the true impacts on the local community. Experiences from individuals navigating homelessness in the Bay Area highlight the emotional and logistical struggles they face. The discussion reveals the disconnect between existing systems designed for support and the urgent realities of those without housing.

Explore the hurdles small businesses face in the digital age, alongside the crucial support from financial institutions. Delve into the complexities of homelessness, particularly for those living in vehicles, and the challenges of accessing vital resources. Discover innovative strategies for boosting holiday sales through online courses, while grappling with persistent hiring issues in today's economy. This thought-provoking journey emphasizes the impact of real estate crises on social inequality and personal recovery.

Emily Anthes, author of The Great Indoors, dives into the surprising ways indoor spaces affect our health and happiness. She reveals that we spend a staggering 90% of our lives indoors, yet we know little about our environments. Anthes discusses the importance of biophilia, the hidden microbial ecosystems in our homes, and how indoor air quality can significantly impact well-being. She also explores the balance between accessibility and design, and the role of smart technology in modern living.

In this engaging conversation, composer Sean Real shares his journey from musician to the mastermind behind over 300 original tracks for the show, highlighting the creativity born from personal connections. Former producer Avery Truffleman discusses the collaborative magic between composers and producers. They touch on the emotional depth of music, the human impact of the housing crisis in the Bay Area, and the complexities of homelessness assistance. This tribute seamlessly blends artistry with poignant social commentary.

If you’ve ever flown on a plane, you’ve been directed to study the safety briefing card in your seatback pocket. Every passenger plane, commercial or private, has to have safety cards on board. Mo Laborde is a reporter who has been collecting safety cards for almost ten years, and one day she started wondering how the modern safety card came about. In The Unlikely Event Buy The 99% Invisible City Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of 99% Invisible ad-free and a whole week early. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.