Sidewalk Ghosts is Live
Our Kickstarter campaign is open through September 17
Every story matters, including yours. By supporting the Sidewalk Ghosts Kickstarter, you help publish a book and grow a storytelling platform that strengthens individuality, fosters community, and inspires change.
The roots of Sidewalk Ghosts were planted in September 2011, when, during a time of personal hardship, I sought clarity as I embarked on an uncharted journey—wandering the streets as I blogged daily essays, portraits, and videos based on conversations with thousands of strangers. For hundreds of consecutive days, no matter what was happening in the world, how I felt, or where I was, I journaled the hope, hurt, and wisdom shared with me. I called it Project 365.
In it, a profound and far-reaching call to action was given to me—a premise proven as thousands more from around the globe followed the project, saw the faces of, listened to, and responded—not just to me, but to each other. Strangers who, through their shared truths, diverse perspectives, and revealed struggles, challenge us all to consider the personal impact we have on one another.
As strangers from most every continent (people I had never met) engaged with these stories, a larger conversation began. That by simply recognizing the words and experiences of complete strangers, grew a realization that our individual actions do have great reach. A truth that, through the way we view, listen, respond, or acknowledge another’s existence—we have power to better the now and future.
From the Project 365 archives
I called them the Bridge Builders, a global and influential collective of distinct individuals committed to awareness, empathy, and respect. An emerging majority strong enough to appreciate the richness of perspective and lifestyle. Objective enough to quietly contribute to their communities and relationships. Wise enough to look beyond race, creed, outlook, gender, age, attraction, and religion. Disciplined and loving enough to, whether in agreement or disagreement, live by a constructive code of conduct.
To the Bridge Builders, I will always be grateful. You have taught us that by opening our eyes, ears, and hearts to one another, we can do more than lighten the burdens we carry—we can see beyond the ghosts that divide us, beyond the barriers we face. We can find peace and focus as we harness the best of who we are. Most importantly, trust ourselves, knowing that our individual influence can add to shaping this world we share.
Welcome to Sidewalk Ghosts, my friends.
The roots of Sidewalk Ghosts were planted in September 2011, when, during a time of personal hardship, I sought clarity as I embarked on an uncharted journey—wandering the streets as I blogged daily essays, portraits, and videos based on conversations with thousands of strangers. For hundreds of consecutive days, no matter what was happening in the world, how I felt, or where I was, I journaled the hope, hurt, and wisdom shared with me. I called it Project 365.
From the Project 365 Archives
In it, a profound and far-reaching call to action was given to me—a premise proven as thousands more from around the globe followed the project, saw the faces of, listened to, and responded—not just to me, but to each other. Strangers who, through their shared truths, diverse perspectives, and revealed struggles, challenge us all to consider the personal impact we have on one another.
As strangers from most every continent (people I had never met) engaged with these stories, a larger conversation began. That by simply recognizing the words and experiences of complete strangers, grew a realization that our individual actions do have great reach. A truth that, through the way we view, listen, respond, or acknowledge another’s existence—we have power to better the now and future.
I called them the Bridge Builders, a global and influential collective of distinct individuals committed to awareness, empathy, and respect. An emerging majority strong enough to appreciate the richness of perspective and lifestyle. Objective enough to quietly contribute to their communities and relationships. Wise enough to look beyond race, creed, outlook, gender, age, attraction, and religion. Disciplined and loving enough to, whether in agreement or disagreement, live by a constructive code of conduct.
To the Bridge Builders, I will always be grateful. You have taught us that by opening our eyes, ears, and hearts to one another, we can do more than lighten the burdens we carry—we can see beyond the ghosts that divide us, beyond the barriers we face. We can find peace and focus as we harness the best of who we are. Most importantly, trust ourselves, knowing that our individual influence can add to shaping this world we share.
My friends,
Welcome to Sidewalk Ghosts
[ From the Archives of 365 ] “Working at Walmart, and with the holidays, I see this every year. People fighting over plastic junk, junk that is only to be returned the next morning.” “Life is like a buffet, there is something for everyone.” Good words to hear as I heal from last night’s pre-holiday
[ From the Archives of 365 ] “I’m studying to be a dentist, and as soon as I finish my education, I intend to return to Cambodia, where I plan to help the poor and the sick, and more importantly, do all I can to stop sex trafficking.” After last night’s quarter tank of fuel
[ From the Archives of 365 ] “I’m tired of the little gestures. If we are going to change, we have to do more, get involved, and educate ourselves. It is amazing how little knowledge our current people know about the environmental impact of industry and population.” Out on a Saturday road trip with my
[ From the Archives of 365 ] “I’ll have no house. I’ll have no stability, and will be traveling—meeting crazy people. Routine and all that crap annoy me.” Please believe me as I tell you that I am not going yogi on you with the metaphysical. But I have to tell you this 365 thing
[ From the Archives of 365 ] “Save your money. Invest it on classic things and your education. Stay away from the trendy, it will only take it away from you and leave you with nothing to show.” The tribute to the future continues with Monica. I meet her this evening while enjoying a night
[ From the Archives of 365 ] “Within fifty years, humans are going to be cross-engineered with machine and technology. We are going to become neo-human being type… half-human, half machine. But even if we don’t go that far, I think we will be able to have the processing power of computers within us.” It’s
[ From the Archives of 365 ] “Live life to the fullest. It is for living. Don’t be afraid to do things at the spur of the moment, by the seat of your pants. Let’s go! Let’s do it!” Stage moms of the world, take note…here is one of the best! Today I’m casting to
[ From the Archives of 365 ] Add Your Heading Text Here It’s not often that one of our new friends takes the time to promptly email us their words. And today is just one of the instances. With that, it would be completely wrong for me to edit or rewrite in any way. So
[ From the Archives of 365 ] “To truly love someone you need to truly see them for who they are. Honest, bare, and raw; and we need to be able to acknowledge the humanity in that; that we are all just as human and imperfect as the next person, and to feel a connection
[ From the Archives of 365 ] “I used to have no remorse for anybody. I’d do anything, anytime… and with no questions. They called me Suicide. I’m not that person anymore.” “I used to have no remorse for anybody. I’d do anything, anytime… and with no questions. They called me Suicide. I’m not that
[ From the Archives of 365 ] “So many talk about making big change, but really, it is the small changes that each one of us can do. Whether it’s turning off the lights that we’re not using, picking up the trash on the sidewalk, carpooling, or biking to work. We can actually make a
[ From the Archives of 365 ] “It is kind of scary seeing what is happening, but in this is the age of information, we can create a domino effect in getting the word out, to open people’s eyes. We have the ability to stir up the pot.” Let us keep moving forward in our
[ From the Archives of 365 ] How Was Your Day? Quite a day today. I won’t go into details, but one note to share. I’ve been telling everyone about 365. A few ask me, “Why are you doing this?” There are two general answers: First, “Loving meeting people and am learning a tremendous amount
[ From the Archives of 365 ] “My goal is to inspire those who have chosen mediocrity out of fear to reach beyond themselves…way past their comfort zone into a life of adventure and meaning.” The social network has made the world a much smaller planet. Hold that thought for later, but for now, I’m
[ From the Archives of 365 ] “My life is dedicated to giving people a second chance at a responsible life. From ex-convicts to recovering addicts to whatever, it does not matter; I want to help them.” There is no other way to start today’s entry other than just getting to the point. But for
[ From the Archives of 365 ] “I’d like to see a future where education is more accessible and affordable, and a people who have a greater appreciation for each other, art and nostalgia.” “We have to learn to shake off society. There are always going to be battles, the world is just that way.
[ From the Archives of 365 ] Be courageous. Look at your life, but do not reflect on it. Lean on your experiences, education, spirituality, and conscience to make your decisions, and once made, constantly listen to your self-voice and be strong and humble enough to follow your own inspiration.” “Be present and mindful. Not
[ From the Archives of 365 ] “Everything is so fast-paced now, you must have patience with yourself and those around you.” You’re in the passenger seat with me. We’re cruising through suburbia and into the corner shopping center. Radio is on and we’re chilling to the tunes. Suddenly the music becomes silent. How can
©2025 RICHARD RADSTONE / SIDEWALK GHOSTS
No image or content may be copied, downloaded, or transferred without written permission.
©2025 RICHARD RADSTONE / SIDEWALK GHOSTS
No image or content may be copied, downloaded, or transferred without written permission.
partially sponsored by
©2025 RICHARD RADSTONE / SIDEWALK GHOSTS
No image or content may be copied, downloaded, or transferred without written permission.
