Open Mike - Episodes
Despite the stigmas of not owning a car, walking affords a much more intimate relationship with the places I live.
Mike reflects on a spiritual moment he had during Sunday service at the First Assembly of God in Natchez, Mississippi.
Mike contrasts between his times of being broke/unhoused versus those of financial abundance with a roof over his head.
Mike expresses his deep concern for the political shift in his home state of Ohio, attributing it partly to demographic changes linked to the shale gas boom and an exodus of college-bound graduates away to coastal cities.
Lamenting on his unsatisfaction in his present work in Louisiana, Mike ponders on the next steps in his career and where that will prompt him to move next.
Mike brings to light the cultural and social implications of car dependency, expressing admiration for those who navigate on foot, especially in areas hostile to pedestrians.
Mike provides a tour of downtown Portland, Oregon, discussing his tenuous housing situation and his frustrations finding an apartment. Passing by Powell’s Books and turning onto Harvey Milk Street, Mike reflects on the challenges of being homeless, including the loss of his personal belongings.
Mike shares career updates as he starts work at Portland General Electric as a transmission operations engineer overseeing the Pacific Northwest power grid.
Mike and Matt recount their recent trucking detour through San Francisco, sharing their excursion in the Castro district, enjoying local cuisine, and getting pedicures. Exploring Queer identity, they celebrate the fluidity of personality and the importance of finding moments of joy along the open road.
Mike breaches and explores the emerging structure that will be known as the Merchant Building in Columbus, Ohio, adjacent to the North Market in its former parking lot.