Illuminating Hope

National Nonprofit Day: Why Prevention Is Everyone’s Business

Why Prevention Is Everyone’s Business National Nonprofit Day | August 17 What if nonprofits didn't just respond to problems but helped prevent them from happening in the first place? In this episode of Illuminating Hope, Hope House Director of Community Engagement, Tina Johnson explores the role nonprofits play in prevention, community engagement, collaboration, and systems change. We’ll talk about: Why prevention is a community responsibility The difference between responding to a crisis and addressing its root causes How nonprofits bring communities and systems together Why education, advocacy, and partnerships are essential to prevention Moving beyond measuring activity to measuring meaningful impact The question for this episode: What are you willing to help prevent? Because sometimes the most powerful evidence of prevention is what never happens. Resources Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Intimate Partner Violence Prevention Resource for Action. https://www.cdc.gov/violence-prevention/php/resources-for-action/index.html National Council of Nonprofits. About the Nonprofit Sector. https://www.councilofnonprofits.org/ 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. Listen. Share. Start the conversation.

Fighting Beyond the Ring: A Conversation with 2026 Believe Gala Keynote Speaker Christy Martin

What does it mean to be a champion, not just in the ring, but in life? In this powerful episode of Illuminating Hope, hosts Tina Johnson and MaryAnne Metheny welcomes legendary boxing champion Christy Martin, whose groundbreaking career forever changed women's boxing. Known as one of the sport's greatest pioneers, Christy's story extends far beyond championship titles. She is also a domestic violence survivor whose courage has inspired countless others to seek safety, healing, and hope. Following the premiere of the feature film Christy, which tells the story of her extraordinary life, Christy reflects on the triumphs, challenges, and deeply personal experiences that shaped her journey. About Christy Martin Christy Martin is a pioneering professional boxer and former world champion who helped bring women's boxing into the national spotlight. Her remarkable career, determination, and advocacy have made her an enduring voice for survivors of domestic violence. Today, she continues to inspire others through public speaking, mentorship, and her commitment to raising awareness about intimate partner violence. Trigger Warning This episode includes discussion of domestic violence and attempted homicide. While these conversations are difficult, they are essential in helping break the cycle of abuse and reminding survivors that they are not alone. Share the Message If Christy's story moved you, please help amplify this important conversation by: Subscribing to Illuminating Hope Leaving a review Sharing this episode with your friends, family, and community Talking openly about healthy relationships and domestic violence prevention Every conversation has the power to create change. Together, we can illuminate hope. 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.

Behind the 2026 Believe Gala

Every year, the Hope House Believe Gala brings together community members, advocates, partners, and supporters for an unforgettable evening dedicated to creating safety, hope, and healing for survivors of domestic violence. In this episode of Illuminating Hope, host Tina Johnson sits down with Hope House's Chief Development Officer and Events Manager for a behind-the-scenes conversation about one of the organization's most impactful fundraising events of the year. Together, they discuss: The mission and purpose of the Believe Gala How community support directly impacts survivors and their children What guests can expect during this year's event The planning, passion, and teamwork that bring the gala to life Why fundraising events are essential to sustaining Hope House's life-saving programs Ways everyone can support the mission—even if they can't attend Whether you're a longtime supporter, attending your first gala, or simply curious about how fundraising changes lives, this conversation offers an inside look at the heart behind Hope House's biggest annual celebration. Why Your Support Matters Every ticket purchased, sponsorship secured, auction item donated, and gift made helps Hope House provide emergency shelter, advocacy, counseling, prevention education, and supportive services for individuals and families impacted by domestic violence. Together, we can help ensure that every survivor has the opportunity to build a future filled with safety, dignity, and hope. Get Involved Attend the Believe Gala Become a sponsor Donate to support survivor services Volunteer with Hope House Share this episode to help spread awareness Thank you for listening to Illuminating Hope. If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who believes that everyone deserves to live free from abuse. Together, we can illuminate hope. Subscribe to the Illuminating Hope Podcast for conversations that advocate, educate, and empower. Host: Director of Community Engagement, Tina Johnson 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. Hide

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 Johnson 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.

Sonderluss Soul - A Benefit for Hope House with Charlie Harris

Saturday, April 18, 2026 , 8:00 pm CST at Knuckleheads Knuckleheads: 2715 Rochester Ave, Kansas City, MO We 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-events or Visit: https://tickets.knuckleheadskc.com/orderticketsarea.asp?p=3499&a=1&fbclid=IwY2xjawPkmBlleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF1VFVadUVmOTZpdW15MEhuc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHiYnc9a2wpkA8gNvonEI92LxusJZs9-1HkzcAa5Nz2RMQfs29ilr4KsDGAyG_aem_v9PykiYjpTwg_M7NCXJiow

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.

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

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-worth Why empowering youth voice shifts peer culture How teens can safely use their influence to create change The role of youth leaders in transforming community norms Through 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.

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 Johnson 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. hopehouse.net

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-stalking Host: Tina Johnson 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. hopehouse.net

The Incompetent Stalker

Episode 4: The Incompetent Suitor The 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-stalking Host: Tina Johnson 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. hopehouse.net

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The Intimacy-Seeking Stalker

Episode 3: The Intimacy-Seeking Stalker Intimacy-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-stalking Host: Tina Johnson 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. hopehouse.net

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The Resentful Stalker

Episode 2: The Resentful Stalker Resentful 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-stalking Host: Tina Johnson 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. hopehouse.net

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The Rejected Stalker

Episode 1: The Rejected Stalker Rejected stalking often occurs after the end of a close relationship and is one of the most common and misunderstood forms of stalking. In this episode, we explore how stalking can emerge when a former partner, family member, or close acquaintance refuses to accept separation or rejection. Listeners will learn how rejected stalking is driven by attempts to regain control either through reconciliation, retaliation, or emotional manipulation and why this behavior can feel confusing and unpredictable for survivors. We discuss the push–pull dynamic that often alternates between affection and anger, and why continued contact after boundaries are set is never about love. This episode is designed to help survivors and communities recognize early warning signs, trust their instincts, and understand that rejection never causes abuse. Stalking is a choice and responsibility always lies with the person engaging in the behavior. Stalking Risk Profile. (n.d.). Types of stalking. https://www.stalkingriskprofile.com/what-is-stalking/types-of-stalking Host: Tina Johnson 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. hopehouse.net

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Giving Hope & Help Jessica McClellan: Re-Drop

Jessica Lynn McCallop-McClellan is an inspirational speaker, (Jessica Lynn Speaks Life), She’s been an impactful keynote speaker at many women’s events and inspirational movements. She is also the Founder and President of 501c3, nonprofit organization, Giving Hope & Help Inc, founded in 2013. One of her purposes is to speak for the voiceless and inspire others to find their voice and use it for change. She is a “Voice for the Voiceless”, survivor and advocate for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, education and cancer support advocate, humanitarian, philanthropist, voice for equality and justice/Founder and Administrator of the Black, Brown and White UNITE for CHANGE Facebook Group, as well as the radio/internet talk show host of Jessica Lynn Speaks Life, on KUAW Radio Station and Co-host for radio talk show: Sister Circle Prayer Warriors on Gospel 1590 AM. Jessica has been featured in media, podcasts, magazines, and television many times for the difference and impact she and the organization are making in the community and across the globe. https://givinghopeandhelp.org/ OUR MISSION Giving Hope & Help is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that supports domestic violence survivors, provides essential resources to end period poverty, empowers college bound and non-traditional students and inspires cancer patients, lifting all those we serve to live their best life. OUR VISION Giving Hope & Help values and acts upon the opportunity to provide hope and help for every person to pursue happiness, health, wealth and education via the avenues, fundraisers and support offered by the organization. OUR WORK Advocate for domestic violence awareness to encourage all to stand up, speak up and STOP domestic violence. Support DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SURVIVORS & the shelters in which live with year round collections and annual drives of sanitary napkins, tampons and new children and women’s packaged underwear. The feminine products also support natural disaster survivors and benefit those in need of feminine care across the globe. GH&H has shipped feminine care to Cambodia, Nairobi-Kenya, Haiti, Mexico and are currently supporting 131 girls in Limiru Kenya for one year with funding for feminine care and underwear for girls. LOVE Bags 4 Cancer Donation & Delivery Events to uplift hospitalized MALE & FEMALE cancer patients in honor of Valentine’s Day & Mother’s Day. The LOVE Bags are hand delivered to the patients at their hospital bedside. A portion of the proceeds benefits the American Cancer Society-Kansas City. Over four hundred hospitalized cancer patients have been inspired and uplifted with the hand delivered LOVE Bags 4 Cancer since Feb. 2015. Education Is Your Passport Program and Annual Scholarship to benefit low income, College bound high school seniors. To date GH&H has awarded 35 scholarships since the 2015 program launch. The program will expand in 2019 to award low income current year high school graduates and single parents full ride scholarships to the Metropolitan Community Colleges: Penn Valley and Maple Woods. Hosts: MaryAnne Metheny, and Tina Johnson 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. hopehouse.net

Breaking the Norm: Re-Drop

lesnorman.com Radio/Podcast Host, Inspirational Keynote Speaker, Cable TV MLB Analyst, Life/Executive Coach, Former MLB Player, Husband, and Father Les Norman has a passion for people. He finds human beings utterly fascinating, loves sharing their stories-the REAL ones-with the world on his radio show and podcast, "Breakin' the Norm". He is also driven to help create passionate servant leaders in business, assist others to establish their own personal brand, and lead men to be the best they can be through life and executive coaching. One of his greatest rewards is to see others live joyfully and be successful! Les grew up without much in life. An abusive childhood could have left him broken, but he used the wrong road map to find the right places. He often heard phrases like "You'll never make it." or "You're not good enough.", but instead of believing the negative voices, it pushed him to become driven to achieve the success he wanted to. He learned what true joy is through faith and family. And most importantly, he used his gift of encouragement to help others in life. He's had a remarkable ride. Earning a Jr. Olympic Gold Medal. Playing Major League Baseball. Cliff jumping into the wild ocean in Venezuela. Sitting in a volcanic hot tub in Costa Rica. And even winning on the hit game show, "Wheel of Fortune"!! But with all those cool experiences, the best one of all...being husband to his bride and best friend of 26 years, Kristin, and being baseball coach and dad to amazing sons Mack (22) and Tayt (18)! Hosts: MaryAnne Metheny, and Tina Johnson 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. hopehouse.net

Advocating Justice: The Legal Battle-Jackson County, Missouri C.A.S.A. (Court Appointed Special Advocates)

CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) Volunteers are community volunteers, just like you, who stand up and speak out to help children who have experienced abuse or neglect. Jackson County CASA recruits, trains, and supports these CASA Volunteers to advocate for the best interests of children who are in the Jackson County Family Court system until they have a safe and permanent home. Jackson County children thrive when they have a consistent caring adult in their life to make sure their voices are heard. Discover how your support helps provide a CASA Volunteer for children who have experienced abuse or neglect. Guests: Sarah Ginther, Manager of Guardians ad Litem Tiana Griffin, Manager of CASA Pro Bono Attorney Program Invest in a child's life. Change yours. To Donate to CASA: https://my.onecause.com/fundraiser/organizations/08a8154c-42cd-4d0e-9690-e63239d3c08e/fundraisers/fundraiser:27ac0fc2-70c3-4b35-8883-dc497745080b Advocating Justice: The Legal Battle Welcome to Illuminating Hope, a podcast of Hope House. In the series Advocating Justice: The Legal Battle, we dive into the legal battles that shape the fight for domestic violence survivors. In each episode, we bring you powerful conversations with the legal teams, court advocates, and changemakers working tirelessly to bring justice, protection, and hope to survivors of domestic violence. From the courtroom to policy changes, from survivor rights to legal strategies, we uncover the critical role the justice system plays in breaking cycles of abuse. Whether you’re a survivor, advocate, or someone passionate about justice, this podcast series will empower and inform you." Justice isn’t just about the law—it’s about giving survivors a voice, protection, and a future. Hosts: MaryAnne Metheny, Ilene Shehan and Tina Johnson 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. hopehouse.net

Advocating Justice: The Legal Battle-Sherrill L. Rosen, Retired Missouri Circuit Court Commissioner

Sherrill L. Rosen is a retired Missouri Circuit Court Commissioner who served with distinction in the 16th Judicial Circuit, based in the Eastern Jackson County Courthouse. With a legal career spanning a decade, Commissioner Rosen was widely respected for her commitment to family law and her tireless advocacy for survivors of domestic violence. Born in Denver, Colorado, and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, Rosen earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Colorado at Boulder at just 20 years old. She went on to receive her law degree from the University of Missouri School of Law in 1978. Rosen began her legal career at Legal Aid of Western Missouri, where she represented survivors of domestic violence. She played a key role in drafting and lobbying for Missouri’s first adult abuse statute, laying the groundwork for stronger protections for abuse victims across the state. She later transitioned to private practice, continuing her focus on family law. In 1994, she was appointed as a Family Court Commissioner, where she presided over contested family law cases and a truancy court program. Throughout her judicial tenure, she was recognized for her integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice. She also served as a guardian ad litem. Her contributions have been honored by the Kansas City Bar Association and Missouri Lawyers Weekly, reflecting her impact both in the courtroom and in the broader legal community. Now retired, Commissioner Rosen leaves behind a legacy of advocacy, service, and leadership in Missouri’s family court system. https://www.kcjc.com/current-news/top-stories/9963-sherrill-rosen-transformer-of-missouri-family-law-retires-after-46-years Advocating Justice: The Legal Battle Welcome to Illuminating Hope, a podcast of Hope House. In the series Advocating Justice: The Legal Battle, we dive into the legal battles that shape the fight for domestic violence survivors. In each episode, we bring you powerful conversations with the legal teams, court advocates, and changemakers working tirelessly to bring justice, protection, and hope to survivors of domestic violence. From the courtroom to policy changes, from survivor rights to legal strategies, we uncover the critical role the justice system plays in breaking cycles of abuse. Whether you’re a survivor, advocate, or someone passionate about justice, this podcast series will empower and inform you." Justice isn’t just about the law—it’s about giving survivors a voice, protection, and a future. Hosts: MaryAnne Metheny, Ilene Shehan and Tina Johnson 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. hopehouse.net

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Advocating Justice: The Legal Battle-Mary Kay O’Malley, Attorney At Law & Emerita Clinical Professor of Law Part 2

This is Part 2 of our powerful conversation with Attorney and Professor Mary Kay O’Malley—a respected voice in family law and a dedicated educator shaping the future of justice. In Part 1, Mary Kay gave us a look into her journey through law and education, and how both worlds intersect impact families and communities. Today, we’re picking right where we left off—diving deeper into the challenges and opportunities in family law, her perspective on systemic change, and the role advocacy plays in creating safer, more supportive environments for children and families. Advocating Justice: The Legal Battle Welcome to Illuminating Hope, a podcast of Hope House. In the series Advocating Justice: The Legal Battle, we dive into the legal battles that shape the fight for domestic violence survivors. In each episode, we bring you powerful conversations with the legal teams, court advocates, and changemakers working tirelessly to bring justice, protection, and hope to survivors of domestic violence. From the courtroom to policy changes, from survivor rights to legal strategies, we uncover the critical role the justice system plays in breaking cycles of abuse. Whether you’re a survivor, advocate, or someone passionate about justice, this podcast series will empower and inform you." Justice isn’t just about the law—it’s about giving survivors a voice, protection, and a future. Hosts: MaryAnne Metheny, Ilene Shehan and Tina Johnson 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. hopehouse.net

Advocating Justice: The Legal Battle-Mary Kay O’Malley, Attorney At Law & Emerita Clinical Professor of Law Part 1

Mary Kay O’Malley has been the director of the Child and Family Services Clinic and clinical professor since 2002. She obtained her bachelor of arts from St. Mary-of-the-Woods College near Terre Haute, Indiana and her master of arts from UMKC. After working as a social worker for the Missouri Division of Family Services for 13 years, she returned to school and graduated cum laude from the Washburn University School of Law in Topeka, Kan., where she was an editor on both the Washburn Law Journal and the ABA Family Law Quarterly. Following law school, Professor O’Malley was employed as a prosecuting attorney at the Jackson County Family Court for six years. After leaving the court she was a partner with Raith and O’Malley P.C., focusing her practice in the area of juvenile and family law. Her other teaching assignments include the law school’s Guardian ad Litem Workshop, and she is the legal director of the Kansas City Youth Court program housed at the law school. Advocating Justice: The Legal Battle Welcome to Illuminating Hope, a podcast of Hope House. In the series Advocating Justice: The Legal Battle, we dive into the legal battles that shape the fight for domestic violence survivors. In each episode, we bring you powerful conversations with the legal teams, court advocates, and changemakers working tirelessly to bring justice, protection, and hope to survivors of domestic violence. From the courtroom to policy changes, from survivor rights to legal strategies, we uncover the critical role the justice system plays in breaking cycles of abuse. Whether you’re a survivor, advocate, or someone passionate about justice, this podcast series will empower and inform you." Justice isn’t just about the law—it’s about giving survivors a voice, protection, and a future. Hosts: MaryAnne Metheny, Ilene Shehan and Tina Johnson 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. hopehouse.net