Lockout
Mike broadcasts from the topiary gardens in Columbus, following his completion of a 2-month jail sentence, lamenting the difficulties of being digitally crippled while trying to survive in a tech-dependent world. Despite finding himself living in poverty, he somehow finds the resilience to enjoy inner peace amidst the beauty he sees while acclimating to life outside of incarceration.
Locked Up
Mike recounts his recent 2-month incarceration at an Ohio correctional facility following a period of absentia, reflecting on the psychological toll of jail. He describes the necessity of surrendering to one’s circumstances and the lingering guilt of failing to intervene during acts of violence.
I’m Still Standing
To exist is political. Mike looks back on his 3-year quest with both triumph and remorse, performing a cappella the Elton John smash hit "I'm Still Standing."
Breaching the Erection
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.
The Thankless Toil
Mike reflects on his past 3 years of relying upon the financial and emotional support of others. He emphasizes the power of gratitude, particularly in the form of handwritten thank-you notes, and reflects on others who had worked for him.
AI Fueled Performance Evaluation
Mike utilizes Google's artificial-intelligence platform Notebook LM to review his video collection. This AI-generated analysis serves as a unique self-evaluation, highlighting Mike's adaptability, resilience, and observant nature as he navigates various life challenges, including housing insecurity and financial struggles.
My Stolen Birthday
Mike shares his recent struggles, including the theft of his belongings around his 39th birthday. Despite these setbacks and over two years of living on the streets, he remains resilient, finding gratitude in those he's met during this journey.
Faceoff w/ Parking Garage KAREN
Mike encounters Parking Garage KAREN in his penthouse loft.
The Prolonged Void
Mike uses the coping mechanisms that he's learned over the course of previous dark holiday seasons to coax himself out of his holiday blues this year.
Sunrise over OSU
A beautiful morning greets us on the winter solstice in The Ohio State University.
Out of Exile
Mike returns for an update after a 2-month absence from the theft of his phone and laptop. Despite the hardships of living in extreme poverty, he expresses a sense of resilience and gratitude for the generous community support and free resources available throughout Columbus.
The Conversation
Mike reflects on his recent struggles, questioning whether his "sabbatical" has turned into a fool’s errand.
Unmet Expectations
Mike reflects on the hardships of being unhoused for 11 months, contrasting his former life as a high-earning professional with his present reality "on tour" across various cities, and lamenting the lackluster response to WANDA and the Street-SMART app he’s developed.