The Healing Odyssey; Finding your own way forward

episode artwork

Emma Gardner

18 October 2025

45m 31s

Healing Odyssey: A Tale of Recovery and Resilience with Temple Lentz

00:00

45:31

In this episode of the Healing Odyssey podcast, Emma explores the intricate world of addiction recovery and mental health with her guest, Temple . They delve into Temple's novel 'Not Quite Home,' which tells the story of two women, Claire and Erica, who navigate the challenges of aiding the homeless. The discussion highlights critical issues such as societal stereotypes, the need for comprehensive support beyond housing, and the systemic challenges faced by those trying to help. The conversation provides a refreshing perspective on transforming personal and communal struggles into tales of resilience and healing.

Links to purchase or find out more:

https://templelentzbooks.com/

https://shop.sibyllinepress.com/products/not-quite-home-a-novel

Not Quite Home by Temple Lentz - Synopsis:

Claire, wealthy and recently widowed, is adrift. She has access to tools to make a real difference but can’t figure out where to apply them. Erica, a young outreach worker to the homeless, has grown so cynical about the broken system that she’s breaking rules herself—and for that, she’s about to get fired. One day, Erica finds Claire giving away gourmet sandwiches and twenty-dollar bills at a homeless encampment, and yanks her out of there with a lecture about systemic problems and feel-good solutions. Their conflict soon becomes a partnership, and they craft a plan to help ten unhoused women get off the streets and build a community of their own. Together, they navigate nasty neighbors and difficult politicians. And just when it seems like they’re going to pull it off, a shadow from one woman’s past jeopardizes the entire project.

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Until next time... be gentle with yourself, stay curious, and keep finding your own way forward

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