🎙️ Stories of the Hope – August 2025 Episode
Title: Mentorship That Changes Lives: John Koch & Connor Blevins

Host: Benson Gregory
Guests: John Koch (Mentor) and Connor Blevins (Scholar)

Episode Summary:
In this powerful episode of Stories of the Hope, host Benson Gregory sits down with mentor John Koch and scholar Connor Blevins to explore the life-changing impact of Mission of Hope’s mentor-scholar program. John shares why he chose to get involved after retirement and how his weekly calls with Connor have become a rewarding, faith-filled connection. Connor opens up about his challenging childhood, his family’s path to recovery, and how the Mission of Hope scholarship and mentorship helped him envision and pursue a future he never thought possible.

Key Topics:

• How John Koch got involved with Mission of Hope after retirement

• What mentoring looks like when done remotely

• Connor's personal story: from instability and early exposure to addiction to academic achievement

• The critical turning point in 8th grade that sparked Connor’s pursuit of excellence

• How Mission of Hope’s scholarship and mentor program changed Connor’s life path

• Connor’s aspirations: law, business, and eventually politics

• The importance of thank-you notes and staying connected with scholarship organizations

• Advice for students and potential mentors

• A closing reflection from Ephesians 2:10 and the call to serve others

Notable Quotes:

🗣️ “We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works.” – John Koch quoting Ephesians 2:10

🗣️ “Knowing I’ve got somebody I can go to and just talk—that’s a pretty big thing for me.” – Connor Blevins

🗣️ “Don’t just get the money and run. Send thank you letters. Stay in touch. Step out of your comfort zone.” – Connor’s advice to fellow scholars

Take Action:

💙 Learn more about becoming a mentor or applying for a Mission of Hope scholarship: https://missionofhope.org
📣 Share this episode to help spread the word about how mentorship changes lives.
🙏 Are you retired or looking for ways to serve? Mission of Hope and find your place to plug in.