The Hope People

Belmont University
The Hope People

In a world facing significant challenges, with conflicts around every corner, it is hope that fuels us as individuals and unites us as a community to do more–to do better–together. Hosted by Belmont University President Dr. Greg Jones, The Hope People highlights the incredible efforts by those who demonstrate what it means to overcome adversity and lean into the lessons they've picked up along the way. These are candid conversations with entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, business executives, community influencers and more who, despite life's hurdles, embrace hope to highlight a higher purpose and meaning in their lives. We hope it will inspire you to become an Agent of Hope, as well.

  1. MAY 14

    Leading with Compassion: A Life of Service in Medicine and Politics

    Physician, conservationist and former U.S. Senate Majority Leader Senator Bill Frist shares his remarkable journey of hope and leadership. From pioneering life-saving medical procedures to breaking barriers in the Senate as the only physician in the chamber in 65 years, Frist reveals how a foundation of compassion, resilience and science guided his path from the operating room to policymaking. In this episode, he discusses how evidence-based decision-making, deep collaboration and a steadfast commitment to global health have shaped major initiatives—from crisis response to international healthcare reforms—leaving an enduring legacy of service and transformative change.

    27 min

  2. FEB 19

    Building Peace, One Child at a Time

    Humanitarian and founder of Maison Shalom, Marguerite "Maggy" Barankitse, shares her extraordinary story of resilience, faith and the transformative power of love during this live conversation at the 2024 Hope Summit. After witnessing unimaginable violence during the Burundian Civil War, Maggy chose to fight hatred with hope, rescuing children from the Hutu and Tutsi factions and creating a community built on love and reconciliation. In this episode, she shares how faith sustained her, how she rebuilt lives despite exile and why she believes love remains the most powerful strategy for change.

    33 min

  3. FEB 5

    Surrendering the Spin: The Unpredictable Path of a Knuckleball Pitcher

    Former Major League Baseball player R.A. Dickey shares his triumphant story of resilience and faith during this live conversation at the 2024 Hope Summit. From overcoming childhood trauma to becoming the first knuckleball pitcher to win the Cy Young Award, R.A.'s journey is a testament to the powers of authenticity and hope. In this episode, he shares his transition from a conventional fastball pitcher to a knuckleballer, a shift he believes mirrors his personal transformation. He also offers a look at the importance of faith, mentors and relationships in helping him thrive and embrace his calling as an agent of hope.

    28 min

  4. JAN 22

    Hope on the Horizon: Barbara Jenkins’s Walk Across America and Beyond

    Barbara Jenkins shares her inspiring journey of resilience, faith and hope. Her incredible story, spanning her humble beginnings in the Ozarks, her famous three-year, 3,000-mile walk across America and her life's highs and lows offers invaluable lessons for anyone seeking hope and purpose.

    26 min

  5. JAN 8

    A Journey of Resilience and Representation

    Chancellor I'Ashea Myles made history as the first African-American female civil trial court judge elected in Nashville, Tennessee. Though her academic journey began with a focus on vocal performance, she pivoted her career toward law, relying on her faith, family and the guidance of mentors to chart her path to the bench. Her remarkable journey, marked by resilience and determination, inspires hope in young people as she encourages them to pursue their dreams. Myles uses her position to advocate for mentorship and sponsorship across the legal profession, empowering the next generation of lawyers to succeed.

    28 min

  6. 12/18/2024

    From the Field to Fulfillment: A Playbook for Improving Mental Health in Sports

    Former MLB player Ben Zobrist is committed to building strong emotional intelligence and mental health in young athletes. Reflecting on his own challenges after achieving his World Series dream, Ben stresses the importance of learning how to navigate the emotions, setbacks and fame that accompany sports success. As founder of Champion Forward, a nonprofit that helps athletes, parents and coaches improve their mental health and confidence, Ben advocates for a team-first mindset, building healthy connections and embracing one's unique qualities, believing that integrating heart, soul and mind is the key to true fulfillment in both sports and in life.

    25 min

  7. 12/04/2024

    Finding Joy in the Symphony of Life

    Cody Fry, Belmont alumnus and accomplished musician, blends joy, hope and creativity into his craft, making orchestral music accessible and inspiring for younger audiences. Influenced by a musical upbringing and supportive mentors, Cody shares how he's crafted a unique style that fuses classical and contemporary elements, epitomized by his viral hit I Hear a Symphony. While navigating challenges like anxiety and the pressures of success, Cody has remained grounded through live performances, focusing on his family life and building meaningful connections. His advice to aspiring musicians emphasizes authenticity, community and the importance of staying true to one's artistic voice, reminding us all of the transformative power of music.

    27 min

  8. 11/20/2024

    The Who, Then the What

    Entrepreneur and leader, James Archer, built a successful business based on dedication to values-based leadership and aligning his core values with those of his employees. James shares his intention to lead with a collaborative mindset, utilizing hope to execute his business ventures to inspire others to fulfill their dreams. His involvement with Belmont's Archer Presidential Scholars program and support for the College of Medicine, highlights his commitment to investing in the future generations. Archer's story exemplifies the power of pouring into the passions of others.

    26 min
See All (23)

Trailers

4.9
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

In a world facing significant challenges, with conflicts around every corner, it is hope that fuels us as individuals and unites us as a community to do more–to do better–together. Hosted by Belmont University President Dr. Greg Jones, The Hope People highlights the incredible efforts by those who demonstrate what it means to overcome adversity and lean into the lessons they've picked up along the way. These are candid conversations with entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, business executives, community influencers and more who, despite life's hurdles, embrace hope to highlight a higher purpose and meaning in their lives. We hope it will inspire you to become an Agent of Hope, as well.

Information

  • Creator
    Belmont University
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 Belmont University. All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Hope People

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