In this episode of Read The Damn Book, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with bestselling author, speaker, and activist Dr. Terence Lester to discuss his powerful memoir From Dropout to Doctorate. Dr. Lester opens up about his personal experiences with homelessness, poverty, and trauma, and how these challenges shaped his journey from high school dropout to community leader and Ph.D. The conversation dives into the complex realities of homelessness, the systemic issues tied to public policy and poverty, and the urgent need for compassionate advocacy.

Listeners will learn how Dr. Lester’s story highlights the role of love, humanity, and kindness in creating lasting social change, and why empathy is essential in addressing homelessness at both individual and societal levels. This inspiring episode emphasizes the interconnectedness of trauma, poverty, and public policy, and challenges us all to rethink how we view and respond to those experiencing homelessness.

What We're Talking About...

• Dr. Lester emphasizes the importance of love as an act of resistance.
• Home is defined as a place of belonging, not just a physical structure.
• Poverty is interconnected with trauma and societal issues.
• Youth homelessness is a significant and often overlooked issue.
• Empathy is crucial for understanding and addressing homelessness.
• Public policy often fails to consider the voices of those affected.
• The narrative around homelessness needs to change to include diverse perspectives.
• Advocacy should be driven by love and compassion for all.
• Conversations about societal issues are necessary for change.
• Personal stories can inspire vulnerability and connection in others.

00:00 The Importance of Humanity and Kindness

07:29 Understanding Homelessness and Its Complexities

13:44 The Role of Public Policy in Homelessness

19:27 The Interconnection of Poverty and Trauma

25:38 Empathy and the Need for Compassion

29:55 The Power of Love and Advocacy

35:57 Vulnerability and Personal Stories

41:54 Conclusion and Call to Action

Links Mentioned

• Dr. Terence Lester's Website: terencelester.com
• From Dropout to Doctorate by Dr. Terence Lester: https://bookshop.org/a/99223/9781514011485
• Zion’s Closets https://www.ivpress.com/press-releases/2025/ivp-kids-zion-learns-to-see-turns-words-into-action-with-the-first-zions-closet-to-help-students-and-families-in-need
• Love Beyond Walls https://www.lovebeyondwalls.org/
• Dr. Terence Lester on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/imterencelester/
• Dr. Terence Lester on X https://x.com/imTerenceLester
• Dr. Terence Lester on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/imterencelester
• Dr. Terence Lester on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/imterencelester/
• Dr. Terence Lester on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@imterencelester