In the studio with Renee is Marcus Gupton, a long-time volunteer and staff member of Farm Cafe in Boone, North Carolina. Marcus shares his journey through homelessness, describing it as “the collapse of your entire outer reality,” and explains how Farm Cafe became both a refuge and a community for him.

Together, Renee and Marcus explore the transformative power of human connection in a pay-what-you-can café, where people from all walks of life—students, locals, and those experiencing homelessness—come together over shared meals. Marcus reflects on the value of bartering service for food, the importance of being seen and valued, and how Farm Cafe’s inclusive model breaks down social barriers.

The conversation also touches on the impact of Hurricane Helene, with Marcus offering moving insights on loss, resilience, and the lessons of empathy that emerge from starting over. Through personal stories and honest reflection, this episode shines a light on the strength found in community and the hope that grows when everyone has a seat at the table.

Marcus Gupton

Marcus Gupton was born in Louisburg, NC, in the summer of 1970. Growing up; he lived in Brussels Belgium, Durham, NC, and Sydney, Australia. He has called Boone home since 1992, working as a student, a clerk, and as a volunteer and staff member at F.A.R.M. Cafe.