Beyond Youth Homelessness Podcast

Beyond Youth Homelessness - Jack

In this episode of Beyond Homelessness: Conversations That Matter, we meet Jack, a lived experience peer worker at Project Youth, whose story explores what it means to search for a sense of home beyond just physical space. Growing up in country New South Wales, Jack shares how not fitting traditional ideas of masculinity left him feeling isolated, misunderstood and disconnected from those around him. He speaks openly about the impact this had on his mental health, including experiences of deep loneliness and suicidal ideation, and the challenges of navigating a world where emotions were often suppressed rather than supported. His story highlights the importance of connection, empathy and truly listening to young people, reminding us that behaviour is often a form of communication, not a problem to be fixed. Jack reflects on how his lived experience now shapes his work, using his voice to support others and create spaces where young people feel seen, heard and valued. Thank you for listening and for joining us as we continue working toward a future where youth homelessness does not exist. Support the show [https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=37WQR7CBSNEK6]

Beyond Youth Homelessness - Aries

In this episode of Beyond Youth Homelessness: Conversations That Matter, we meet Aries, who shares her experience of entering the housing system at just 16 and navigating crisis, medium-term and transitional housing. Through her story, Aries offers an honest reflection on what it means to move through systems designed to support, but that don’t always feel like home. She speaks about the challenges of crisis accommodation, the importance of stability and connection in medium-term housing, and the unexpected isolation that can come with independence. Aries highlights the power of relationships and how being seen, heard and supported by the right people can transform not only your experience, but your sense of self. Her story reminds us that support is not just about providing a place to stay, but about creating spaces where young people can feel safe enough to grow, connect and be themselves. Thank you for listening and for joining us as we continue working toward a future where youth homelessness does not exist. Support the show [https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=37WQR7CBSNEK6]

Beyond Youth Homelessness - Shaun

In this episode of Beyond Homelessness: Conversations That Matter, we meet Shaun, who shares his lived experience of youth homelessness and the journey that followed. Through his story, we explore what happens when young people are misunderstood by the systems and people around them at the very time they need support the most. Shaun reflects on becoming homeless at 16, navigating complex family dynamics, and living with ADHD and ASD in environments that didn’t fully understand or respond to his needs. He speaks about feeling unseen and judged, and how this shaped his early experiences of homelessness. His story also highlights the turning points that came through connection, support, and community. Shaun shares how finding safety, belonging, and purpose helped him begin to move forward and rebuild his life. Shaun’s experience reminds us that youth homelessness is not a choice, and challenges us to consider how we can better listen, respond, and support young people facing adversity. Thank you for listening and for joining us as we continue working toward a future where youth homelessness does not exist. Support the show [https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=37WQR7CBSNEK6]

SPECIAL EPISODE Beyond Youth Homelessness - Community Member, Julie

This is a special edition episode of the Beyond Youth Homelessness Podcast as we participate in Youth Homelessness Matters Day for 2026, where Matt is joined by Julie, a member of our local community here in the Sutherland Shire. In this conversation, Julie shares her reflections on the reality of youth homelessness in our own backyard, and the shock and sadness that comes with understanding just how many young people are being turned away from support. Julie speaks to the role that everyday community members can play from starting conversations, to educating themselves and others, to using their voice in local forums to advocate for change. She reminds us that while the issue can feel overwhelming, meaningful action often starts small and that when we each contribute in our own way, real momentum can build. Thank you for listening and for joining us as we continue working toward a future where youth homelessness does not exist. Make a pledge through the BEAR Project HERE [https://www.projectyouth.org.au/the-bear-project]  Donate to the work of Project Youth HERE [https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=37WQR7CBSNEK6] Support the show [https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=37WQR7CBSNEK6]

SPECIAL EPISODE Beyond Youth Homelessness - Real Estate, Matt

In this special Youth Homelessness Matters Day edition of the Beyond Youth Homelessness Podcast, host Matt sits down with local real estate agent and Project Youth board member Matt to explore the housing crisis from a different angle. From navigating the competitive rental market to confronting the reality that four in five young people are turned away from housing support, this conversation unpacks the gap between the private housing sector and youth homelessness services. Together, they reflect on how awareness becomes action—and the role real estate professionals, landlords, and the broader business community can play in being part of the solution. This episode highlights the power of education, connection, and using your sphere of influence—whether through advocacy, industry collaboration, or opening doors to housing opportunities. Thank you for listening and for joining us as we continue working toward a future where youth homelessness does not exist. Make a pledge through the BEAR Project HERE [https://www.projectyouth.org.au/the-bear-project]  Donate to the work of Project Youth HERE [https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=37WQR7CBSNEK6] Support the show [https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=37WQR7CBSNEK6]