The Opportunity Starts at Home podcast takes a deep look at opportunity in America, especially how housing shapes that opportunity. Of all the factors that affect our ability to thrive, both economically and socially, few are more important than the homes in which we are raised. Housing predicts the kind of neighborhood you’ll grow up in; the quality of school you’ll attend; and your access to transportation, amenities, resources, job opportunities, and social networks. Housing is simply…
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Guests Christine Kim (My Dog is My Home), Shari Myers (The Partnership for Inclusive Disaster Strategies), and Meghan Mertyris (NLIHC's Disaster Housing Recovery Coalition) discuss the current federal landscape for pet-inclusive disaster housing response and recovery. While short-term protections exist, long-term protections and resources for disaster survivors with pets are limited. Expertise…
This episode is an audio recording of an Opportunity Starts at Home (OSAH) Campaign Roundtable event held in Washington, D.C. on December 2, 2025. The event brought together campaign partners to reflect on campaign achievements, mobilize around priority bills, and discuss new strategies to further multi-sector collaboration for housing affordability. The episode features Renee M. Willis, NLIHC…
Our guest, Professor Victoria Kiechel, discusses the impact of housing on heat morbidity and climate change resilience. We explore the ways building design and historical inequities drive disparities in heat risk across the country, and discuss solutions for climate resilience.
Guest Dr. Heather Peske discusses the recent report from the National Council on Teacher Quality, “Priced Out: The Growing Challenge of Teacher Pay and Housing Costs”. We dive into the report’s findings, the impact of unaffordable housing on teachers and ultimately students, and potential solutions, including examples of what some districts are trying. Read the report here:…
Guests Eddy Conroy and Nick Graetz discuss their recent issue brief, “Ousted from Opportunity: Eviction’s Adverse Impact on Parenting College Students,” which examines the unique challenges faced by students caring for children while enrolled in college, and the results of their analysis revealing the consequences that the threat of eviction has, impacting not only the likelihood of completing a…
In this episode, we examine the role of architects in public housing and their impact on driving positive social change. Learn how architectural innovation in public housing can address social challenges, foster community engagement, and create environments that support social equity and climate justice. Guests: Roberta Feldman, Ph.D, Professor University of Illinois at Chicago, School of…
In this episode we delve into the crucial role architects play in preservation of housing affordability with an exploration of Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing (NOAH). This episode shares insight on how architects can act as scope and grant writers, helping to secure funding and develop plans for the preservation and improvement of affordable housing. Hear from professionals who have…
Our guest architects explore the intricate connections between design, health, and the environment. Architects will discuss how holistic design approaches can create healthier living environments that also benefit the whole community. From improving indoor air quality to integrating green spaces and promoting sustainable living practices, discover how innovative design can enhance both human…
In this episode, we explore culturally mindful housing that prioritizes residents' needs and aspirations. Our guests discuss housing projects and community design processes that have successfully integrated these principles, demonstrating that when housing is designed with people in mind, it becomes a powerful catalyst for social change. Guests: Alex Patricio Salazar, Founding Principal of Salazar…
Our guest architects Karen Kubey and Casius Pealer share their experiences and insights on how thoughtful design can address both immediate needs and long-term community benefits. Discover how innovative architectural approaches can create sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant neighborhoods and support residents’ human rights. Guests: Karen Kubey, Convener, American Institute of Architects Right to…
