Illuminating Hope

Hosted by Hope House, Inc

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Apr 2026

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Hope House's mission is to break the cycle of domestic violence by providing safe refuge and supportive services that educate and empower those impacted by domestic violence. Hope House will advocate social change that protects and engenders a person's right to live a life free of abuse.

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June 15, 202629 min

From Engineer to Empathy Revolutionist with Dr. Nicole Price

Dr. Nicole Price is an engineer-turned-leadership strategist, empathy revolutionary, keynote speaker, author, and CEO of Lively Paradox. After discovering that empathy is not an innate trait but a skill that can be developed, she dedicated her career to helping leaders build stronger, more engaged, and high-performing teams.Through keynotes, workshops, and leadership development programs, Dr. Price equips organizations with practical strategies to improve trust, retention, and workplace culture. Her work has been featured in Forbes, CNN, MSNBC, Fortune, and Fox.Whether you lead a nonprofit organization, business, team, or community initiative, this episode offers actionable insights for leading with greater purpose, connection, and impact.📖 Learn more about Spark the Heart and Dr. Nicole Price's work.livelyparadox.com🎧 Subscribe to the Illuminating Hope Podcast for conversations that advocate, educate, and empower.Host: Director of Community Engagement, Tina Johnsonhttps://www.hopehouse.net/If you are in an emergency, call or text 9-1-1.For information about our services and how Hope House can help, call our 24-Hour Hotline at 816-461-HOPE (4673) or the National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-7233.

April 7, 202621 min

Sonderluss Soul - A Benefit for Hope House with Charlie Harris

Saturday, April 18, 2026 , 8:00 pm CST at KnuckleheadsKnuckleheads: 2715 Rochester Ave, Kansas City, MOWe are excited to announce the Sonderluss Soul: A Benefit Concert for Hope House! Sonderluss Soul is comprised of Charlie Harris (basses and guitars), Bill Thompson (harmonicas), Marcus Rattler (percussion and steel pan). All members are veteran musicians who have played in a number of musical projects in different genres all over the country. The band prides itself in being “genre-less,” incorporating elements of funk, Latin, rock, jazz, and classical in its original compositions. Recently referred to as “the most original band in Kansas City,” they are a must-see event!Critically acclaimed Nashville saxophonist David Bosviet will be joining Sonderluss Soul for this special night. David has shared the stage with many Grammy winners in and around Nashville. David and Charlie Harris, the bassist and founder of Sonderluss Soul, have played together for years and recently recorded a soundtrack for a movie. David and Charlie last appeared together in Kansas City in 2023 for sold out concert promoted by the Folly Theater.Follow Sonderluss Soul on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/p/Sonderluss-Soul-61550294162722/Enjoy a one of a kind jazz concert from the band, Sonderluss Soul, with proceeds benefitting Hope House! The band prides itself in being “genre-less,” incorporating elements of funk, Latin, rock, jazz, and classical in its original compositions.Event and Ticket Information: https://www.hopehouse.net/events/calendar-of-eventsor Visit: https://tickets.knuckleheadskc.com/orderticketsarea.asp?p=3499&a=1&fbclid=IwY2xjawPkmBlleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF1VFVadUVmOTZpdW15MEhuc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHiYnc9a2wpkA8gNvonEI92LxusJZs9-1HkzcAa5Nz2RMQfs29ilr4KsDGAyG_aem_v9PykiYjpTwg_M7NCXJiow

March 24, 202635 min

Illuminating Policy, Process, and Budgets with Missouri House Speaker Dr. Jon Patterson

Missouri House Speaker Dr. Jon Patterson, represents District 30, which includes parts of Lee’s Summit. He was elected to his first two-year term in November 2018. Rep. Patterson is a 1998 graduate of Blue Springs High School. He then attended the University of Missouri–Columbia, where he earned both his bachelor's and medical degree. After medical school, Dr. Patterson completed his surgical residency at Truman Medical Center in downtown Kansas City. Dr. Patterson practiced general surgery in eastern Jackson County from 2011-2022. Rep. Patterson lives in Lee’s Summit with his wife, Jennifer. They have two children, Leah and Andrew. In his spare time, Dr. Patterson enjoys family time, reading, and golf. Dr. Patterson is committed to public service through medical missions. He has completed surgical mission trips around the world, including to the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Jordan. In this episode, we dive into the legislative process, explore how bills and budgets are shaped, and discuss how these decisions impact communities, especially those navigating domestic violence and seeking critical support services. We also talk about the importance of collaboration between policymakers and community organizations to create lasting, meaningful change.Listen in as we talk about turning awareness into action and advancing policies that truly support survivors and strengthen our communities.Hosts: Director of Community Engagement, Tina Johnson, Chief Executive Officer, MaryAnne Metheny, and Chief Operating Officer, Ilene Shehan.https://www.hopehouse.net/If you are in an emergency, call or text 9-1-1.For information about our services and how Hope House can help, call our 24-Hour Hotline at 816-461-HOPE (4673) or the National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-7233.

March 4, 20265 min

Missouri Crime Victims Funding: Take Action Now

Today, we need your voice.For decades, Missouri’s victim service organizations have worked alongside law enforcement, healthcare providers, court systems, and local communities to ensure that individuals impacted by crime have access to safe and supportive services.One of the primary funding sources for victim services is the federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA). VOCA provides grants to states, which then distribute funds to local agencies serving victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and other violent crimes. Over the past several years, however, federal VOCA funding has declined significantly. For the past four years, the State of Missouri has included a line item in its General Revenue budget to help offset these federal reductions and stabilize victim service agencies.In the proposed budget for FY2027, Governor Kehoe has eliminated the General Revenue line items of $25 million to help bridge the cuts from Federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) allocations.In addition to the $25 million budget cuts, Governor Kehoe has proposed another $1 million cut from the Department of Social Services (DSS) Domestic Violence Shelter and Services fund (DVSS). These funds are specifically designed to help domestic violence agencies provide core services to victims.To Find Your Legislators & For more information: https://www.hopehouse.net/get-involved/take-action-now

February 28, 20266 min

How Teen Leadership Prevents Dating Violence

In this powerful Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month conversation, Youth Prevention Specialist Sadi Geier joins us to explore how teen leadership is more than a confidence-builder, it’s a prevention strategy.Together, we dive into what leadership really looks like for young people and how developing skills like communication, boundary-setting, decision-making, and peer influence can help teens build healthier relationships and recognize red flags early.This episode unpacks:How leadership shapes identity and self-worthWhy empowering youth voice shifts peer cultureHow teens can safely use their influence to create changeThe role of youth leaders in transforming community normsThrough this conversation, we highlight how giving teens the tools to lead doesn’t just prepare them for the future it actively reduces risk, builds resilience, and strengthens prevention today.Because when teens learn to lead, they also learn to love safely, respectfully, and with confidence.

February 24, 20266 min

Red Flags & Real Talk with Youth Prevention Specialist Sadi Geier

In recognition of Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, this special episode features Youth Prevention Specialist Sadi Geier in an important conversation centered on empowering young people to build healthy, respectful relationships.Together, we explore what teen dating violence really looks like beyond the stereotypes including warning signs, the role of boundaries, peer influence, and how early relationship patterns can shape future well-being. Sadi shares insights from prevention work happening directly with youth, highlighting the importance of leadership, communication skills, and self-awareness in creating safe relationship dynamics.This episode is designed for teens, parents, educators, and community members who want to better understand how to recognize red flags, support young people, and foster a culture where respect and safety are the norm — not the exception.Prevention starts with conversation. And when we equip youth with knowledge and confidence, we help them step into relationships rooted in dignity, value, and mutual respect.Host: Tina JohnsonIf you are in an emergency, call or text 9-1-1.For information about our services and how Hope House can help, call our 24-Hour Hotline at 816-461-HOPE (4673) or the National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-7233.hopehouse.net

January 30, 20264 min

The Predatory Stalker

Predatory stalking is the most dangerous and deliberate form of stalking. In this episode, we discuss stalking rooted in entitlement, power, and control where the behavior is intentional from the beginning.Victims are often strangers, and stalking may involve surveillance, targeting, and information-gathering that can escalate into sexual violence. We explain why this type of stalking must always be taken seriously and why survivors’ instincts are critical to safety.This episode centers accountability, affirms survivor experiences, and underscores that predatory stalking is never about attraction it is about power and control.Understanding this pattern helps survivors trust their instincts and prioritize safety.Stalking Risk Profile. (n.d.). Types of stalking. https://www.stalkingriskprofile.com/what-is-stalking/types-of-stalkingHost: Tina JohnsonIf you are in an emergency, call or text 9-1-1.For information about our services and how Hope House can help, call our 24-Hour Hotline at 816-461-HOPE (4673) or the National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-7233.hopehouse.net

January 28, 20264 min

The Incompetent Stalker

Episode 4: The Incompetent SuitorThe incompetent suitor is a type of stalker whose behavior is often minimized as awkwardness, misunderstanding, or “not knowing better.” In this episode, we explore stalking driven by loneliness or desire, where the goal is access not connection.We discuss why repeated advances after rejection are harmful, how distress is often ignored or dismissed, and how social pressure frequently shifts responsibility onto the victim. The episode also addresses disability and neurodiversity with care making clear that understanding context never excuses harm.This conversation reinforces that discomfort is a valid boundary and that survivors are not responsible for educating others at the expense of their safety.Understanding this pattern helps survivors trust their instincts and prioritize safety.Stalking Risk Profile. (n.d.). Types of stalking. https://www.stalkingriskprofile.com/what-is-stalking/types-of-stalkingHost: Tina JohnsonIf you are in an emergency, call or text 9-1-1.For information about our services and how Hope House can help, call our 24-Hour Hotline at 816-461-HOPE (4673) or the National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-7233.hopehouse.net

January 26, 20265 min

The Intimacy-Seeking Stalker

Episode 3: The Intimacy-Seeking StalkerIntimacy-seeking stalking is often misunderstood and dangerously romanticized. In this episode, we examine stalking that arises from loneliness, fixation, and a false belief that a relationship exists or is destined to exist despite clear lack of consent.Victims are usually strangers or acquaintances, and in some cases the behavior is fueled by delusional beliefs, such as erotomanic thinking. We discuss why unwanted pursuit is not affection, how fantasy replaces reality, and why consent is always required for connection.This episode challenges cultural myths that excuse obsession and reinforces that survivors are never responsible for managing someone else’s beliefs or emotions.Understanding this pattern helps survivors trust their instincts and prioritize safety.Stalking Risk Profile. (n.d.). Types of stalking. https://www.stalkingriskprofile.com/what-is-stalking/types-of-stalkingHost: Tina JohnsonIf you are in an emergency, call or text 9-1-1.For information about our services and how Hope House can help, call our 24-Hour Hotline at 816-461-HOPE (4673) or the National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-7233.hopehouse.net

January 23, 20265 min

The Resentful Stalker

Episode 2: The Resentful StalkerResentful stalking is driven by anger, perceived injustice, and a desire for revenge. In this episode, we explore how individuals who believe they have been mistreated or humiliated may use stalking as a way to “even the score.”Unlike rejected stalking, victims are often strangers or acquaintances rather than former partners. We discuss how resentful stalkers frequently present themselves as the true victim and justify their behavior as retaliation or self-defense, even when it causes fear and harm.This episode helps listeners recognize how resentment can escalate into control, why fear becomes a source of power for the stalker, and why feeling wronged never justifies abuse.This episode supports survivor awareness and safety planning. Stalking is never justified and is never the survivor’s fault.Stalking Risk Profile. (n.d.). Types of stalking. https://www.stalkingriskprofile.com/what-is-stalking/types-of-stalkingHost: Tina JohnsonIf you are in an emergency, call or text 9-1-1.For information about our services and how Hope House can help, call our 24-Hour Hotline at 816-461-HOPE (4673) or the National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-7233.hopehouse.net