The Hope People

Hosted by Belmont University

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Dec 2025

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About the show

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.

Listen to episodes

28 recent

December 17, 2025Episode 2631 min

Nicole Brandt Minyard: The Art of Reclaiming Your Story

Daybreak Arts Founder Nicole Brandt Minyard shares how a simple service-learning project at Belmont University grew into a powerful creative movement that empowers artists experiencing homelessness. Nicole reflects on the early moments that shaped her calling, the role of faith and community in building Daybreak, and the transformative stories of artists who have reclaimed their identity, confidence and hope through art. From challenging stereotypes to creating economic opportunities, she reveals how creativity can be a bridge — healing wounds, restoring dignity and illuminating what's possible when we truly see one another.

December 3, 2025Episode 2528 min

Noah McMahon: The Golden Age of Giving

Philanthropist and innovator Noah McMahon shares why he believes we are stepping into the golden age of giving — a moment defined by imagination, humility and bold ideas. From launching global initiatives and collaborating with world changers to mentoring the next generation of donors, Noah reveals how generosity becomes most powerful when it's rooted in purpose, hospitality and hope. This conversation unpacks the mindset shifts reshaping modern philanthropy, the joy found in meaningful service and why young leaders should see generosity not as a burden, but as a remarkable opportunity to design a better world. Hope isn't passive — it's a call to action, and each of us has a place at the table.

November 19, 2025Episode 2431 min

Dave Barnes: The Rooms You're Meant to Be In

Musician and storyteller Dave Barnes shares how humor, faith and authenticity have shaped his journey through success, fatherhood and creativity. From Grammy nominations and hit songs like God Gave Me You to the joys of parenting and hosting his podcast Dadville, Dave reflects on the discipline of hope and the power of joy as a tool against darkness. Grounded in faith, he encourages young artists to be themselves on purpose and trust God to open doors, reminding us that true success comes from living authentically, integrating our gifts and choosing joy even in life's hardest seasons.

November 5, 2025Episode 2328 min

Mignon Francois: Planting Seeds of Faith

Entrepreneur and author Mignon Francois, founder of The Cupcake Collection, shares how she transformed her last $5 into a multimillion-dollar business through faith, perseverance and obedience. With warmth and wisdom, Mignon reflects on turning failure into favor, building a company grounded in prayer and using her story to inspire others to "make hope obvious." From navigating hardship to mentoring the next generation, her journey is a powerful reminder that every seed of faith — when planted with trust — can grow into something extraordinary.

October 22, 2025Episode 2221 min

Veronica Berti Bocelli: A Hope that Heals

Veronica Berti Bocelli–wife, manager and co-founder of the Andrea Bocelli Foundation–shares how faith, compassion and purpose guide her life and leadership. Veronica reflects on the responsibility of using one's gifts for good and the sacred power of music to heal and unite. She speaks candidly about service as a moral calling, the importance of giving time as the greatest act of love and her hope that all people learn to live with gratitude, kindness and joy, treasuring each moment and each person as a gift.

May 14, 2025Episode 2127 min

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.

February 19, 2025Episode 2032 min

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.

February 5, 2025Episode 1928 min

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.

January 22, 2025Episode 1825 min

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.

January 8, 2025Episode 1727 min

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.

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