The F Word

An Orange Sky Podcast

Have you ever thought about what it’s like to be homeless?

Welcome to “The F Word,” a non-profit podcast by Orange Sky Australia that brings you into the heart of our world-first free mobile laundry and shower service, dedicated to supporting people experiencing homelessness and hardship.

Episode 1

Thanks For Not Taking Advantage of My Brother

The pilot episode of The F Word ties up a ten year old loose end, as Nic and Lucas attempt to track down Orange Sky’s first friend, Geordan. From a moving chat with Geordan’s sister to a hopeful reconnection, Thanks For Not Taking Advantage Of My Brother explores the phenomenal butterfly effect of just one load of laundry, for one person, 10 years ago.

Episode 2

We’re Stuck Here, So Let’s Have a Chat

Two 20-year-olds, an idea, an engineering challenge. Yet, according to Nic and Lucas on this episode of The F Word, it was the conversation as they waited for Sudsy’s first load to finish that truly ignited Orange Sky’s vision. ‘We’re Stuck Here, So Let’s Have a Chat’ is your chance to hear from the people that knew the co-founders best far before Orange Sky was ever dreamed of.

Episode 3

The Perfect Legacy – The Van Named After My Dad

The tear-jerking third episode of The F Word features Nic and Lucas’ heartfelt tribute to Rob (aka. Rosco), a volunteer at the Sunshine Coast whose limitless generosity left a lasting impact. Tune in as Rosco’s wife, Denise, shares their enchanting love story that started with a smile and a wink, and their daughter shares her experience learning from a life-of-the-party, intensely loving and “dorky” dad who took a genuine interest in others.

Episode 4

To me, it was just a load of washing...

The realisation that many friends visiting Orange Sky vans are trusting some of their only possessions to strangers, to protect, clean and return their clothes, can be an incredible moment of perspective and gratitude for new volunteers. In this episode of The F word, Nic and Lucas hear the stories of friendships forged between volunteers and Aussies doing it tough, and the many realisations and benefits experienced by a range of long and short-term supporters of Orange Sky across Australia.

Episode 5

The Motel Of A Million Stars

Ros’ fierce independence and dedication to helping every person she came across, volunteers and friends alike, will go down in Orange Sky history. Ros was an educated business owner, a mother of two and a community-maker when personal challenges led her to experience homelessness. Episode 5 of The F Word, The Motel Of A Million Stars, is dedicated to celebrating our dear friend for all her quirks and kindness, featuring interviews with a collection of her friends and admirers.

Episode 6

They are not just people, they are our friends

What’s the difference between yourself, and someone doing it tough? It’s likely a lot less than you think. Stereotypes can make us believe harmful narratives around how individuals come to experience homelessness, and even dehumanise their situation. This episode of The F Word explores the real-life impact of sudden change, and examines the fine line between stability and crisis.

Listen to the F Word Here

Listen to our six-episode season exploring friendship and stereotypes on Orange Sky shifts across the country. Hear from friends, volunteers, families and co-founders on The F Word.

Discover the Power of Kindness and Friendship

In each episode, we share real-life experiences of people experiencing homelessness and hardship, along with the perspectives of our dedicated volunteers. You’ll hear about the origins of Orange Sky and meet our very first ‘friend’, learning how simple conversations and clean clothes can restore dignity and hope.

Podcast Stories

The podcast also explores the unique challenges faced by our friends and the inspiring ways they overcome them. We aim to break down homelessness stereotypes and reveal the true power of community and friendship. By listening to The F Word, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the impact of volunteering and the future of our efforts to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

“I love that friendship is at the heart of Orange Sky. To hear the stories of connection, imperfection and kindness that fuel the friendships of Lucas and Nic’s life-changing work is captivating.

The podcast is a beautiful explanation of how their determination to hold out a hand to new friends is so simple it may just change the world.”

- Beck

Tell us what you think

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