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

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

By: Valerie Hope
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Connect to Joy Podcasts: Our Story and Mission


Connect to Joy Podcasts is a home for meaningful connection, hope and resilience, and personal growth conversations that remind us we are not alone.


Created and hosted by Valerie Hope, leadership coach, facilitator, and guide, Connect to Joy Podcasts exists to support people through life transitions, deepen emotional intelligence, and inspire purpose-driven living. In a world full of noise and division, this network offers thoughtful conversations that bridge differences, foster understanding, and awaken authentic human connection.


Connect to Joy Podcasts includes three distinct yet aligned shows: The Circle of Hope, Not Quite Strangers, and Time to Come Alive. Together, they explore what it means to live with openness, courage, and heart—both personally and collectively.


🌿 The Circle of Hope

The Circle of Hope is a podcast centered on hope and resilience in real life. Through intimate storytelling and reflective dialogue, this show explores emotional healing, inner strength, and the power of community during challenging seasons. Each episode offers encouragement, perspective, and gentle wisdom for navigating uncertainty with compassion and courage.


🤝 Not Quite Strangers

Not Quite Strangers invites listeners into unscripted conversations between people who have just met. Designed to dissolve barriers and spark empathy, this show highlights the magic of meaningful connection across differences. These honest, human conversations demonstrate how emotional intelligence and curiosity can transform strangers into neighbors—and foster more authentic leadership in everyday life.


✨ Time to Come Alive

Time to Come Alive is an invitation to reconnect with yourself and what truly matters. Through uplifting interviews, reflective practices, and practical guidance, this podcast supports personal growth, self-awareness, and aligned action. Each episode encourages listeners to awaken their purpose, navigate life transitions with intention, and live with renewed energy and joy.


💛 Our Shared Intention

At the heart of Connect to Joy Podcasts is a deep belief in the power of storytelling to heal, unite, and inspire change. Through personal growth conversations, compassionate listening, and shared wisdom, this network supports individuals and communities in cultivating hope, connection, and a more purposeful way of living.


As your host and fellow journeyer, Valerie brings openness, humility, and respect to every conversation, creating a space where all voices are valued and authentic expression is welcomed.


Whether you’re seeking hope, longing for deeper connection, exploring authentic leadership, or standing at the edge of a life transition, Connect to Joy Podcasts offers conversations that help you reconnect—to yourself, to others, and to the joy already within you.


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


🎧 Subscribe and explore the latest episodes at connecttojoypodcast.com


🎥 Watch full episodes and extended conversations on YouTube

Valerie Hope Alternative & Complementary Medicine Career Success Economics Hygiene & Healthy Living Leadership Management & Leadership Personal Development Personal Success Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Relationships Social Sciences Spirituality
Episodes
  • An Airline Pilot’s Journey Through Depression, Connection, and Healing | Ep. 17 COH | Valerie Hope

    An Airline Pilot’s Journey Through Depression, Connection, and Healing | Ep. 17 COH | Valerie Hope
    Dec 23 2025
    In this heartfelt episode of Circle of Hope, I’m joined by Jérôme Vaillancourt, from Montreal, Canada, for an inspiring and vulnerable conversation about connection, coherence, and healing. Jérôme and I reminisce on how our friendship sparked in the most unlikely of places—a randomly assigned, two-minute breakout room during a HeartMath Institute course at the height of the pandemic. What began as a fleeting encounter blossomed into a monthly circle of support that’s provided healing, growth, and safety for both of us (and others in our group) through job changes, personal upheavals, and the intricacies of navigating life’s challenges.We talk candidly about Jérôme’s journey from being a logic-driven, technically-focused airline pilot—through a life-altering depression—to someone who leads with intention, openness, and heart. He shares how our group supported him during his darkest moments, the unique safety we found together, and how energetic, heart-based connections can be just as vital as frequent communication. We discuss everything from the science of the heart to the magic of intuition, navigating relationships with new intention, and why “coherence” isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a lived experience that can transform even the most logic-driven environments.Watch This If:You’re craving deeper, more meaningful connections in your life or work.You’ve ever felt isolated and wondered how to rebuild or nurture your support circle.You’re curious about heart-based science, emotional coherence, or the HeartMath Institute.You want practical tips for fostering psychological safety and vulnerability in groups.You’re navigating major life transitions, such as career changes or mental health challenges.You believe—or want to believe—that even brief encounters can change your life.Quotes to Remember:“We don’t have walls in that group. We’re just standing on hard ground.” —Jérôme Vaillancourt“Relationships are actually not always just built in conversation and dialogue…but also in the intention that we hold about the people that we’re in relationship with.” —Valerie Hope“Take care of yourself and you take care of your relationships. Like really.” —Jérôme Vaillancourt“The courage that we have in sharing what’s going on with us…no matter where we are on the spectrum or how intense it is…the intention is always that it be a healing conversation.” —Valerie HopeWhat You’ll Learn:How even brief, unexpected connections can blossom into powerful support circles.The science and practice of “coherence” and its impact on both individuals and groups.Why psychological safety and vulnerability are foundational for meaningful connection.Ways to nurture relationships energetically—even if you’re not in constant contact.How intention and heart-based practices can reshape your approach to work, life, and healing from major challenges.Practical ideas for reaching out, showing up, and anchoring a sense of community, even when others fade away or circumstances change.The subtle—but powerful—ways you can make a positive impact on everyone around you, seen and unseen.Contact Information:Guest: Jérôme VaillancourtWebsite: https://ucoaching.art/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j%C3%A9r%C3%B4me-vaillancourt-conf%C3%A9rencier-pilote-coh%C3%A9rence-physiologique?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_appHost: 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 #HeartMath #IntentionalConnections #HealingThroughCommunity #EmotionalCoherence
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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • Secrets to Thriving as a Teen: How Listening & Invitations Open Doors | Ep. 16 COH | Valerie Hope

    Secrets to Thriving as a Teen: How Listening & Invitations Open Doors | Ep. 16 COH | Valerie Hope
    Dec 16 2025
    In this lively, heartfelt episode of The Circle of Hope, I sit down with my niece Lucy Hope, a rising high school senior—and, fittingly, my summer virtual assistant! We unravel the power of curiosity, listening, and connecting with those who help us grow. From Lucy’s early days as the inquisitive toddler in our family kitchen to her navigation of high school clubs, friendships, and the dynamic landscape of a big, bustling household, we explore how quietly observed details can lead to genuine influence and leadership.Lucy shares her journey as a naturally introverted observer who discovered that being a good listener can make you not only a better friend, but also a thoughtful gift-giver, a connector, and, unexpectedly, a leader. We dive into fascinating discoveries about “human design,” how understanding your preference for invitations (“wait to be invited” versus “initiate or respond”) can shape your opportunities and confidence. Along the way, we discuss sibling relationships, family dynamics, generational gaps, and practical advice for both adults and teens about listening, mentoring, and finding “your people.” Whether you’re a quiet teen, a parent, or anyone hungry for authentic connection, this is a must-listen for practical wisdom infused with warmth and humor.Watch This If:You’re a teen (or parent of one) navigating friendships, clubs, or new environments.You want to communicate better with young people in your life.You appreciate the hidden power of being a great listener or want to develop it.You’re interested in self-awareness approaches like “human design” or discovering your strengths.You value real-life stories and advice about forging meaningful connections and support circles.You’re curious about relatable intergenerational family wisdom and advice.Quotes to Remember:“Just being able to understand other people and then give them the empathy that they deserve … is really important.” – Lucy Hope“There’s nothing worse than telling yourself you’re too old to try this or you couldn’t try this … If it interests you, just do it.” – Lucy Hope“You don’t need to have one person be everything for you. … We do need a circle of people.” – Valerie Hope“Sometimes, it’d be more helpful if, instead of me saying, ‘This is what’s happening at school,’ they asked, ‘How is school? What’s going on?’ … Sometimes I don’t want to be complaining … just having that space to bring it up in a conversation is really helpful.” – Lucy HopeWhat You’ll Learn:Why listening quietly can make you more influential and empathetic—especially in friendships and family.How your unique style of initiating, waiting for invitations, or responding can open doors to new opportunities—and why it matters for teens and adults.The power and practicality of forming your “circle of hope” with different people for different needs (not expecting one person to be your “everything”).Helpful ways for parents and adults to support and communicate with teens (hint: don’t rush to “fix” every problem!).Real advice for young people feeling alone or starting fresh: how to make friends, be yourself, and build authentic connections.The surprising benefits of trying new activities, being open to invitations, and knowing when to move on (“never feel boxed in”).Generational wisdom: stories of resilience, reinvention, and curiosity passed through family.Contact Information:Guest: Lucy HopeInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/i.love.llucyy/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 #TeenWisdom #ActiveListening #FamilyConnections #HumanDesign
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • How to Truly See People, in the Midst of Conflict | Ep. 15 COH | Valerie Hope

    How to Truly See People, in the Midst of Conflict | Ep. 15 COH | Valerie Hope
    Dec 9 2025

    In this special episode of The Circle of Hope, I’m joined by the incredible Ingrid Gavshon—accomplished documentary filmmaker, masterful coach, and a dear friend who truly embodies compassion and connection across cultures. Our conversation is a soulful exploration of how meaningful relationships are fostered, especially with those who may seem different from us on the surface. Ingrid draws from her rich experiences growing up in South Africa during apartheid, traveling the world, and sitting across from controversial figures as a filmmaker. Her insights remind us how vital it is to move past headlines and labels, and to “see people for who they are, rather than what they represent.”


    Together, we talk about the power of asking real, curious questions, how to navigate cultural differences with humility, and the courage it takes to find humanity even in the most polarizing situations. We share personal stories—everything from dealing with tough conversations in family, learning to listen for what’s not being said, to transforming friction in teams and cross-cultural encounters into genuine understanding. If you’ve ever wondered how to hold space for difficult dialogue, become a better listener, or simply rekindle the joy of human connection in a divided world, this conversation is for you.


    Watch This If:

    • You want to learn how to connect deeply with people across cultural, political, or personal divides
    • You struggle with “hot button” conversations and are looking for ways to navigate them gracefully
    • You’re curious about the behind-the-scenes work of a documentary filmmaker
    • You value empathy, curiosity, and courageous conversations
    • You want practical tips to foster belonging and understanding at work or in your personal life


    Quotes to Remember:

    • “We both see people for who they are rather than for what they represent.” – Ingrid Gavshon
    • “If you really know somebody else, you probably find some level of commonality… but it’s about listening for what’s not being said.” – Ingrid Gavshon
    • “Our job is to get in alignment with that way of serving... There’s not one right way to do it.” – Valerie Hope
    • “People aren’t their politics. They have lives… hopes and dreams and struggles.” – Ingrid Gavshon


    What You’ll Learn:

    • How to ask deeper questions that invite openness, not defensiveness
    • The difference between seeking to understand vs. seeking to win debates
    • Cross-cultural communication insights—preparation vs. organic connection
    • Strategies for defusing tension and bringing humanity back to polarized topics
    • The transformative power of storytelling, curiosity, and community
    • How to identify your own intentions in difficult conversations
    • That there are many valid ways to contribute to social change


    Contact Information:


    Guest: Ingrid Gavshon

    • LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/ingrid-gavshon
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ingrid-gavshon


    Host: Valerie Hope

    • Website:https://www.valeriehope.com
    • Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/valeriehope/
    • LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriehope/
    • Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ValerieVHope
    • Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@ConnecttoJoy


    Production Support: Lucy Hope - Podcast Editing, Copy, and Publishing.


    #CircleOfHope #CourageousConversation #CuriosityConnects #GlobalCitizenship #EmpathyInAction
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    1 hr and 30 mins
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