Over the last few years, our Belmont community has been focusing our attention on hope – a powerful force that unites, inspires and strengthens us to do good. Christ-centered leaders have a unique role in making hope known and helping it to flourish in unexpected places. We call these leaders the hope people.
Now in its second season, The Hope People Podcast shares stories about hope from people who embody and inspire it in others. From non-profit leaders to former pro athletes, musicians to authors, these champions testify to the vital role that hope plays across all industries, stages of life and leadership roles.
As we close out this season, I wanted to reflect on a few key lessons from our conversations. Each guest brought remarkable wisdom–here are some takeaways from each episode. I encourage you to listen to each episode to hear their stories firsthand.
1. Economic equity means empowering others to flourish on their own terms, not imposing
conventional solutions.
From Will Acuff & Shana Berkeley, Corner to Corner (Episode 1)
2. Being underestimated doesn’t equal being under-qualified — the right support structures unlock neglected potential.
From Will Acuff & Shana Berkeley, Corner to Corner (Episode 1)
3. Meaningful legacies are measured less by talent and more by impact and generosity.
From David Robinson, NBA legend (Episode 2)
4. Education changes trajectories by bridging economic, cultural and performance gaps.
From David Robinson, NBA legend (Episode 2)
5. To experience the full power of hope, combine love with fun by surrounding yourself with people you care about.
From Rusty Gaston, Sony Music Publishing Nashville (Episode 3)
6. Music inspires hope, reminds us of our “why” and guides us through life’s triumphs and challenges.
From Rusty Gaston, Sony Music Publishing Nashville (Episode 3)
7. The foundation of great organizations is people — a curated team of value-driven leaders can solve challenging problems.
From James Archer, business leader (Episode 4)
8. Invest your time, treasure and talent in the people you want to see grow to multiply impact.
From James Archer, business leader (Episode 4)
9. Authentic creation happens when you let inspiration flow through you, making art that resonates with audiences.
From Cody Fry, musician (Episode 5)
10. Finding the right blend of tradition and innovation sets great leaders and ideas apart.
From Cody Fry, musician (Episode 5)
11. Hope isn’t something we can cultivate alone — it’s revealed and strengthened by the people around us.
From Ben Zobrist, former MLB star (Episode 6)
12. Real strength lies in the courage to be vulnerable with both victories and struggles.
From Ben Zobrist, former MLB star (Episode 6)
13. Representation matters — breaking the mold takes courage and opens doors for others to follow.
From Chancellor I’Ashea Myles (Episode 7)
14. Gifted leaders stand firm in truth while extending grace without limits.
From Chancellor I’Ashea Myles (Episode 7)
15. Humor makes life’s challenges easier to bear, while storytelling transforms suffering into connection.
From Barbara Jenkins, author (Episode 8)
16. Cultivating a “happy mind” comes from perspective, not circumstances.
From Barbara Jenkins, author (Episode 8)
17. Supportive relationships break us out of survival mode and teach us what it means to belong.
From R.A. Dickey, former MLB pitcher (Episode 9)
18. Embracing lifelong learning equips you with the adaptability needed to navigate challenges.
From R.A. Dickey, former MLB pitcher (Episode 9)
19. Children are cherished members of society who remind us about hope’s nature and promises.
From Maggy Barankitse, humanitarian (Episode 10)
20. Love is our winning strategy — the only force strong enough to break cycles of violence and defeat injustice.
From Maggy Barankitse, humanitarian (Episode 10)
This season’s guests have lived exceptional lives, and the lessons they’ve learned offer practical wisdom for leaders in all walks of life – challenging us to steward our gifts with intention and generosity. I encourage you to listen to each episode for more.
My prayer is that we all become hope people, embracing our shared responsibility of finding and cultivating hope in the world. May hope continue to capture our attention, occupy our thoughts and inspire courageous action.
Cheers,
Greg