Collaborative Solutions Podcast

In the Collaborative Solutions podcast, listeners are introduced to a diverse panel of local experts from Kansas as they work to solve the challenging social issues that confront people experiencing homelessness. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, James Chiselom, Barry Feaker, Misty Bosch-Hastings, and Brett Hartford highlight the importance of collaboration and compassion in finding solutions.

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Episodes

2 days ago

On this episode of Collaborative Solutions, co-hosts Misty Bosch-Hastings and Barry Feaker sit down with Kelby Sanders, a peer, clinician, and outreach advocate with Mirror, Inc. Kelby shares his journey from lived experience to professional support, discussing the importance of meeting people where they are and removing barriers to recovery. He highlights the unprecedented approach of conducting Substance Use Disorder (SUD) assessments in the field, a groundbreaking model that ensures immediate access to care for individuals who might not otherwise seek help. The Homeless Response Team’s innovative approach is reshaping outreach by integrating harm reduction, mental health support, and real-time interventions in ways that have never been done before. Tune in to hear how this transformative work is making a tangible impact on homelessness, recovery, and community collaboration in Lawrence.

Wednesday Jan 29, 2025

In this episode of Collaborative Solutions, host Barry Feaker dives into a conversation with Ryan Sztorch, Senior Director of Crisis Services at Burt Nash Community Mental Health Center. Joined by Misty Bosch-Hastings and Brett Hartford, the discussion highlights the critical intersection of mental health, homelessness, and crisis intervention in Lawrence, Kansas.
 
Ryan shares his expertise in holistic care, mobile crisis response, and building trust-based collaborations to address systemic challenges. From expanding community partnerships to providing real-time solutions for vulnerable individuals, the episode showcases the power of teamwork in reshaping lives and creating sustainable change.
 
Tune in for an inspiring look at how Ryan and his team are advancing innovative solutions to some of the community’s most pressing issues.

Wednesday Jan 22, 2025

In this powerful episode, host Barry Feaker joins Misty Bosch-Hastings, Director of Homeless Solutions for the City of Lawrence, James Chisholm, Executive Director of the Lawrence Community Shelter, and Kyle Roggenkamp, CEO of the Ballard Center. Together, they explore the profound impacts of collaboration, empathy, and gratitude in addressing homelessness and fostering community transformation.
 
From winter shelters that offer safety and trust to trauma-informed childcare programs that nurture both children and their families, the episode highlights how a holistic approach creates ripples of change. Kyle shares his deeply personal journey from homelessness to leadership, reminding us of the importance of relationships, trust, and shifting from survival-driven egos to gratitude-driven action.
 
The episode challenges listeners to confront their perceptions, advocate for compassion, and move beyond criticism to contribution. It’s a call to action for communities to embrace the power of understanding, gratitude, and shared responsibility in building a better future for everyone.

Wednesday Jan 15, 2025

In the first Collaborative Solutions episode of 2025, host Barry Feaker joins Misty Bosch-Hastings, James Chiselom, and guest Jonathan Smith, Executive Director of Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health. The discussion highlights Jonathan’s journey and his commitment to serving underserved populations through innovative public health initiatives like Wellness Wednesdays and mobile outreach services.
 
Together, the group shares how their coordinated efforts advance the vision of A Place for Everyone. This inspiring conversation showcases how Lawrence-Douglas County is building a healthier, more inclusive community through trust, compassion, and action.

Tuesday Dec 24, 2024

This episode of Collaborative Solutions celebrates Trina Tinsley, co-founder of the Jax Project, a grassroots effort born from her 8-year-old son Jax heartfelt question: “Why can’t we feed them dinner?” What began as a simple act of kindness has grown into a lifeline of love and care for those experiencing homelessness.
 
Every Sunday, Trina and her team serve hot meals, but their mission goes far beyond food. With the motto “We serve love with a side of food,” they build connections, offer hope, and remind people they matter. Now, the Jax Project is expanding to support newly housed individuals, ensuring they feel cared for as they adjust to stability.
 
Trina’s compassion and dedication remind us of the power of love in action. Her story is a beautiful example of how one small question can spark a movement that transforms lives and strengthens community.

Wednesday Dec 18, 2024

In this inspiring episode, we are honored to highlight the incredible Holly LeClaire, Manager of Community Outreach and Lived Experience Integration at Alive Inc. Holly’s journey from overcoming personal challenges, including homelessness and substance use, to becoming a beacon of hope and transformation in Lawrence, Kansas, is truly remarkable.
 
Holly shares the power of peer support—meeting people where they are, building trust through lived experience, and showing that change is possible. Her work with Alive Inc., a consumer-run organization, emphasizes empathy, connection, and advocacy for individuals navigating mental health challenges, substance use disorders, and homelessness.
 
This episode also features Misty Bosch-Hastings, Director of Homeless Solutions, who celebrates the profound impact of peer support in the community and highlights collaborative efforts that bring services directly to those in need. Together, we explore how lived experience, compassion, and persistence are transforming lives and fostering a stronger, more inclusive Lawrence.

Wednesday Dec 11, 2024

In this episode, the spotlight falls brightly on Kristen Shook, a dedicated leader who serves as the Work for Success Program Manager at Mirror Inc. Kristen’s passion for uplifting individuals overcoming homelessness, reentry challenges, and personal hardships radiates through her work. With a caring, empathetic approach, she goes beyond simple job placement—she helps people rediscover their worth, establish personal goals, and define their own success. Her unwavering commitment to forging genuine connections, building trust, and helping others see their own potential underscores the transformative power she brings to her role. A true catalyst for change, Kristen is not just shaping futures, she’s helping individuals and communities envision—and achieve—a better tomorrow.

Wednesday Dec 04, 2024

In this episode of "Collaborative Solutions," host Barry Feaker and co-host Misty Bosch Hastings talk with Tenants to Homeowners' Executive Director, Rebecca Buford, and Housing Care Coordinator, Angie Bauer. They explore innovative solutions to homelessness and housing insecurity in Lawrence and Douglas County.
 
Tenants to Homeowners offers a spectrum of housing options—from affordable rentals to entry-level homeownership—addressing diverse community needs. The discussion highlights the crucial role of supportive services in helping individuals transition from homelessness to stable housing.
 
A key theme is shifting the community perspective from "Not In My Back Yard" (NIMBY) to "Yes In My Back Yard" (YIMBY). By dispelling myths and encouraging collaboration, they aim to create an inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Wednesday Nov 27, 2024

In Episode 22 of "Collaborative Solutions," hosts Barry and Misty engage in a compelling discussion with Brenda Wahl, Executive Director of Family Promise, about innovative solutions to homelessness in Lawrence, Kansas. Brenda shares how Family Promise has transitioned from rotating shelters in churches to a static, stable environment for homeless families—a change that has reduced trauma and provided consistent support.
 
Brenda highlightings the often hidden nature of family homelessness, and underscores the power of community collaboration. She inspires listeners to take action, illustrating how dedicated efforts can transform lives and foster a more compassionate community.

Wednesday Nov 20, 2024

In this episode of Collaborative Solutions, hosts Barry Feaker and Misty Bosch-Hastings welcome Shannon Oury, CEO of the Lawrence Douglas County Housing Authority, who shares her passionate work in providing affordable, supportive housing. Shannon reveals the agency’s unique programs, such as safe housing for survivors and reentry vouchers, highlighting Lawrence’s innovative approach to tackling homelessness and housing insecurity.
 
Shannon’s journey, from a career in law to leading the Housing Authority, is deeply personal and grounded in her family’s legacy of resilience. Her leadership is transforming the community, as seen with projects like Delmar Place, a new senior housing development. With Lawrence’s support, Shannon is helping to ensure more stable housing and opportunities for the community. This inspiring conversation underscores the power of collaboration and dedication in creating a place for everyone.

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