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Connect to Joy Podcasts: Circle of Hope | Not Quite Strangers | Time to Come Alive

Connect to Joy Podcasts: Circle of Hope | Not Quite Strangers | Time to Come Alive

Auteur(s): Valerie Hope
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Connect to Joy Podcasts: Our Story and Mission


Welcome to Connect to Joy Podcasts—your trusted space to rediscover hope, nurture connection, and ignite joy in every aspect of your life. My journey in creating this brand began with a heartfelt desire to help people bridge gaps, embrace diversity, and foster genuine relationships. I believe that in a world buzzing with noise, taking time to connect with joy—on a personal and collective level—is nothing short of revolutionary.

Connect to Joy Podcasts is home to three transformative shows: The Circle of Hope, Not Quite Strangers, and Time to Come Alive. Each podcast is a unique doorway into meaningful conversations, personal growth, and authentic human connection.


The Circle of Hope is a beacon for those seeking light amidst life’s challenges. Here, we come together to share powerful stories of resilience, explore practices for emotional healing, and encourage each other to find hope where it’s hardest to see. My aim is to create a nurturing space where vulnerability is honored, and hope is always within reach.


Not Quite Strangers is for the curious souls eager to dismantle barriers and build bridges. In this podcast, I invite strangers from all walks of life to engage in rich, unscripted conversations. By celebrating our differences and common ground, we prove that meaningful connection is possible—even between people who have just met. These candid dialogues foster empathy, courage, and the realization that we're never as far apart as we think.


Time to Come Alive is your personal invitation to awaken your mind, body, and soul. Here, I offer uplifting interviews, reflective exercises, and practical guidance to elevate your daily existence. Each episode inspires self-discovery, awareness, and purposeful action—empowering you to infuse every moment with curiosity and joy.


At the heart of Connect to Joy Podcasts is my unwavering commitment to inspire positive change—within you and around you. I believe in the power of storytelling to heal wounds, transform perspectives, and unite communities. Through compassionate conversations, shared wisdom, and the courage to be authentic, we can all connect to a deeper wellspring of joy.


As your host and fellow journeyer, I am here not just to facilitate discussions but to participate in them—with openness, humility, and a deep respect for every voice. My vision is to cultivate a diverse, supportive community where you are seen, heard, and valued.

Whether you’re searching for hope, seeking meaningful connection, or ready to come alive in new ways, Connect to Joy Podcasts is your guiding light. Let’s embark on this journey together, embracing our shared humanity and celebrating the extraordinary power of joy.

Discover your circle. Find your hope. Connect to your joy.


Subscribe to the latest episodes at connecttojoypodcast.com

Valerie Hope Développement personnel Gestion et leadership Hygiène et mode de vie sain Médecine alternative Psychologie Psychologie et santé mentale Relations Réussite Sciences sociales Spiritualité Économie
Épisodes
  • From Awkward Encounters to Authentic Inclusion | Ep. 6 COH | Valerie Hope

    From Awkward Encounters to Authentic Inclusion | Ep. 6 COH | Valerie Hope
    Sep 16 2025
    In this episode of The Circle of Hope, I’m joined by Dr. Carla Pulliam for an open-hearted, insightful exploration of what it really takes to bring diversity, connection, and intentionality into our circles of influence. We reminisce about our first meeting—volunteering for a college readiness mentoring program where a simple conversation soon spiraled into deep dives on topics like critical race theory, menopause, and the power of authentic curiosity. Carla shares her perspective on connecting with new people and creating space for different voices, while we both reflect on what draws us to expand our circles in both personal and professional settings.Together, we dig into some of the real, sometimes awkward, challenges that arise when we strive for true inclusion—like how it feels to be intentionally invited into spaces because of your identity, why explicit intent matters, and why taking (and making) space is crucial for connection. We also discuss the pressures and self-awareness around DEI in today’s world, how to deal with uncomfortable feelings like imposter syndrome, and how our upbringings shape who we include in our lives. Leave this episode with new language, practical mindsets, and a sense of joy about what happens when we lead with curiosity, clarity, and care in curating our circle.Watch This If:You want to foster genuine inclusion and diversity within your professional or personal network.You’ve ever wondered how (or if) to bring up real conversations about identity, race, or difference without it feeling awkward.You’re looking for inspiration on curating a circle that helps everyone grow and thrive.You’re curious about how to balance taking space with making space for others.You want practical examples of turning uncomfortable moments into bigger opportunities for connection.Quotes to Remember:“If I can help you find your lane, you can help me find my lane, we’re going to create something much bigger together.” – Carla Pulliam“Taking space and making space…when we honor and see, OK, this person possesses this interest or has a passion for this, or this is a strength that’s showing up—that’s for the good of the group.” – Valerie Hope“I just want to check-in to see if my buddy at work is doing okay...Whether or not they’re able to fulfill the job and perform because they feel heard, and they feel like they belong—those things seem to have gone out the window once that label was slapped on it.” – Valerie Hope“Can I lead with where my mind is? Because for what you know about yourself, can you just be out there with what you’re seeking or what you want, and then you know where to meet me?” – Carla PulliamWhat You’ll Learn:The difference between just “looking” inclusive and actually building authentic, diverse relationshipsWhy transparency and clarity of intent are powerful tools for connectionHow to recognize and work through imposter syndrome and anxiety when curating your inner circleContact Information:Guest: Dr. Carla PulliamWebsite: https://www.thechrysaliscenter.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrysalis.center/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlapulliamphd/?msgControlName=view_message_button&msgConversationId=2-MGM5OTY4OWUtMTdhOS00M2JlLTk1ODMtMDg3NzdhZTY3NmE0XzAxMA%3D%3D&msgOverlay=trueFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheChrysalisCenterHost: Valerie HopeWebsite: https://www.valeriehope.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/valeriehope/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriehope/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ValerieVHopeYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@ConnecttoJoyProduction Support: Lucy Hope - Podcast Editing, Copy, and Publishing.#DiversityAndInclusion #CurateYourCircle #AuthenticConnection #CircleOfHope #ConnectToJoy
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    1 h et 10 min
  • How Improv, Coaching & Connection Shape Us | Ep. 5 COH | Valerie Hope

    How Improv, Coaching & Connection Shape Us | Ep. 5 COH | Valerie Hope
    Sep 2 2025
    Welcome to The Circle of Hope Podcast! I’m Valerie Hope, and in this episode, I sit down with the creative dynamo Jeanne Lambin—facilitator, coach, storyteller, and connector. Together, we explore the art (and the heart) of building real community, showing up for each other without judgment, and crafting spaces where creativity, kindness, and meaningful connection can thrive.We talk about everything from tackling inner criticism, to “The Something” (a unique community writing group!), to what it means to truly repair relationships and nurture your inner and outer circle. Whether your “circle” is one trusted friend or a roomful of collaborators, this episode will inspire you to approach connection with more intention, gentleness, and maybe even a little improv.Watch This If:You’re over surface-level small talk, and crave spaces where you can truly show upYou want practical tips for facilitating genuine group experiencesYou’re battling inner judgment and need new models for self-kindness and supportYou dream of leading creative circles, workshops, or storytelling groupsYou want to UPLEVEL your “circle of hope” for more satisfying, reciprocal relationshipsKey Moments:00:00 – Jeanne and Valerie’s origin story & why names matter! 02:30 – Building safe, creative spaces: What is “The Something?” 04:54 – Bypassing inner judgment: How groups normalize our challenges 09:46 – Coaching that’s kind vs. coaching that’s firm—finding the balance 13:33 – Friendships, feedback, and learning to be a “collaborative challenger” 21:16 – What does it mean to “repair” a conversation or relationship? 29:30 – Presence over agenda: The power of pausing, improv, and reading the room 37:38 – Curating your circle: Who feeds your spirit vs. who drains you? 49:06 – What’s working and not working in connecting with others today 54:55 – Permission, time, and the challenge of asking for what you really need 59:25 – Understanding status — supporting each other without “lording” over 1:12:26 – Why the REAL work of connection always starts with self-awarenessQuotes to Remember:“One of the first rules of engagement is showing up.”“The idea is just to create a safe, supported space. There’s no sharing of the work. There’s no critique. It’s just: Write whatever you’re going to write.”“To meet your process without judgment, and be there for others to do the same.”“Listening trumps schedule or agenda.”“When you know what you need, you’re more apt to find the person who can fulfill that need.”“How do you want me to listen?”“If we can sit with our thoughts, you can’t change or transform what you don’t notice.”“Self-absorbed isn’t the same as self-aware. Circles of connection also exist inside ourselves.”What You’ll Learn:How to build creative, judgment-free spaces that foster real connection (and productivity!)Strategies to manage your inner critic—through facilitation, coaching, and peer supportThe art of balancing kindness and directness when guiding othersTechniques from improv and storytelling for better group engagementWhy pausing and adapting are the facilitator’s secret strengthsHow to nurture (and prune) your circle with reciprocity, honesty, and careFresh ways to ask for what you need and support others in your communityThe role of “status” in group dynamics—and how to build truly collaborative teamsContact Info:Guest: Jeanne LambinWebsite: https://www.thehumanimaginationproject.com/Website: http://jeannelambin.medium.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeannelambin/LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanne-m-lambin/Host: Valerie HopeWebsite:https://www.valeriehope.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/valeriehope/LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriehope/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ValerieVHopeYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/@ConnecttoJoyProduction Support: Lucy Hope - Podcast Editing, Copy, and Publishing.#CircleOfHope #MeaningfulConnections #Community
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    1 h et 19 min
  • What Happens When You Finally Choose Yourself? | Ep. 4 COH | Valerie Hope

    What Happens When You Finally Choose Yourself? | Ep. 4 COH | Valerie Hope
    Aug 19 2025
    In this episode of The Circle of Hope, I have the pleasure of sitting down with Michael Anderson, a dynamic leader whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. Our paths first crossed in a workshop at UT Dallas, where Michael, then a Deputy CTO, lingered after class to dive deeper into public speaking, coaching, and finding new purpose beyond the corporate grind. What began as a networking connection soon transformed into a supportive friendship rooted in curiosity and the desire for growth.Michael shares his story of overcoming adversity, from growing up in a tough environment with limited role models to finding new direction in the military and, ultimately, coaching others to greatness. He takes us through the emotional pivot that moved him (and his wife!) from executive life in Texas to entrepreneurship and expat living in Mexico—driven by a desire for meaningful relationships, work-life balance, and continuous learning. Along the way, we explore the challenges and joys of building a network from scratch in a new country, the deep fulfillment found in helping others unlock their potential, and the power of mindful intention in shaping our destinies. This episode is a testament to courage, connection, and the transformative impact of conscious choices.Watch This If:You’re navigating a major life or career transitionYou want to learn how to build powerful relationships and inner circlesYou’re curious about taking the leap to live or work abroad as an expatYou value stories of resilience, healing, and overcoming adversityYou seek inspiration for starting or deepening your personal development or coaching journeyQuotes to Remember:“What you see every single day in your community is a very, very small slice of what real life is actually like. You have to move. You have to do something to get outside of your immediate community.” – Michael Anderson“When she shared that…that said to me that…I’m in control of my destiny. I get to select what I become, what my legacy is going to be. I’m in firm control of that.” – Michael Anderson“If we can just, for a little while, each morning, dedicate a space of time…to mindfulness, only ten to fifteen minutes a day…there is no limit to what an individual can do.” – Michael Anderson“The drive for growing, for moving beyond the circumstances of your childhood, for healing aspects of your life that were hindering your progress…there’s a pattern that needs to be interrupted.” – Valerie HopeWhat You’ll Learn:How resilience, intentionality, and mentorship can transform your life and career trajectoryThe role of coaching not just as a profession, but as a tool for healing and fast-tracking growthStrategies for building and nurturing authentic relationships and support circlesThe realities and rewards of starting over in a new country and cultureWays to maintain and expand your network—even across distances and bordersThe importance of mindfulness and awareness in breaking limiting cycles and creating new possibilitiesThe value of curiosity, follow-through, and continuous personal development as lifelong assetsStay ConnectedGuest: Michael AndersonWebsite: http://www.yourthoughtlife.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/yorthoughtlifeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/your-thought-life-consulting/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Your-Thought-Life/100092172354902/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@yourthoughtlifeSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5kOXdyyGPwQgEdoz6aFu1oHost: Valerie HopeWebsite:https://www.valeriehope.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/valeriehope/LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriehope/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ValerieVHopeYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/@ConnecttoJoyProduction Support: Lucy Hope - Podcast Editing, Copy, and Publishing.Hashtags:#PersonalDevelopment #CircleOfHope #Resilience #CoachingJourney #ExpatLife
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    1 h et 2 min
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