On this episode of the #ImpactMyLife Podcast, Jason Nolan is joined by John Tumino, co-founder and executive director of In My Father’s Kitchen, a Syracuse-based organization dedicated to restoring hope and dignity to people experiencing homelessness.

John shares his journey from growing up in an immigrant family and building a successful restaurant career to confronting his own addictions, rediscovering his faith, and walking away from the business he helped create to pursue a greater calling.

That calling became clear during an encounter with a man named Tim on a Syracuse off-ramp. What began with a sandwich and the words “You’re not invisible” grew into a street outreach organization that provides meals, medical support, case management, employment opportunities, and pathways toward stable housing.

Jason and John discuss the trauma and untreated mental-health challenges that can contribute to homelessness and addiction, the misconceptions that prevent people from receiving meaningful help, and why lasting change begins with listening rather than judging.

John also explains how In My Father’s Kitchen’s Hire Ground program offers dignified work as an alternative to panhandling and shares how ordinary people can make an impact through acknowledgment, compassion, donations, and a willingness to see the person behind the cardboard sign.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that everyone has potential, no one should feel invisible, and the gifts already in your hands may be exactly what you need to begin changing someone’s life.

Content note: This episode includes conversations about addiction, childhood sexual abuse, exploitation, homelessness, overdose, violence, and death.