It all started in a kitchen…

People Loving Nashville didn’t begin with a strategic plan, a budget, or a name. It began in a kitchen.

In a recent interview, our founder Ryan Lampa reflects on how a few friends cooking meals in 2008 grew into a sixteen-year movement rooted in consistency, dignity, and long-term restoration. From Monday night meals on the streets to housing programs, restoration support, and Paradeisos Coffee, Ryan shares the messy, beautiful journey of learning to love people well—one relationship at a time.

This conversation isn’t just about how People Loving Nashville started. It’s about what it takes to keep showing up, the cost of walking with people through hardship, and the quiet power of community that refuses to give up on anyone.

Read the full interview here to hear Ryan’s story, the lessons learned along the way, and why we believe hope is real and restoration is possible—for people, and for our city.