In this special episode celebrating Youth Voice Amplified's 2nd anniversary, we’re honored to feature Dakota, a high school senior navigating life as an unaccompanied homeless youth. Dakota shares his incredible journey of resilience and determination, from losing both parents to finding stability through his school’s McKinney-Vento program. His openness about overcoming stigma, reclaiming his education, and creating a brighter future offers a powerful reminder of the strength within us all.
Dakota reflects on his challenges and triumphs while charting "the good road ahead"—a path filled with purpose, hope, and a clear plan for success. Whether you're seeking inspiration or want to better understand the realities faced by homeless youth, this episode is a must-listen. Celebrate with us as we mark two years of amplifying youth voices with Dakota’s unforgettable story. 🎧 Tune in now!
Resources & information mentioned in the episode:
- Unaccompanied Homeless Youth & the McKinney-Vento Act
- Find helpful resources mentioned in this podcast episode.
Connect with Youth Voice Amplified - Youth Voice Amplified Podcast
- Instagram – @youthvoiceamplifiedpodcast
- Youth Voice Amplified on Facebook
If you would like to ask us a question, recommend a topic, or suggest a guest, please email us at youthvoiceamplified@gmail.com.
Credits:
Producers: Brian Johnson, Gennessa Fisher, Kim Silva and Allyson Baptiste
Production Partners: Liam Silva and Kern Education Television Network, the Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office
Theme Song: “Beatitude” by Mountaineer
💬 Have thoughts on this episode? Text us and share your take!
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!