The Hope Matrix

Kathryn Goetzke

The Hope Matrix explores the science of hope, stories of people that put hope in practice, and strategies you can use in your life to maintain a hopeful mindset. The host, Kathryn Goetzke, is also the author of The Biggest Little Book About Hope, and Chief Mood Officer at The Mood Factory. Kathryn, along with her team at her nonprofit iFred, also created Hopeful Minds, the first free global program to teach hope as a skill, available for download at www.hopefulminds.org. Check out all the episodes at www.thehopematrix.com

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58 episodes
Updated Oct 10, 2025

Episodes58

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Oct 10, 2025 · 52 min
Episode 58: Reuniting Through Hope, Featuring Reese Butler II, Frank Warren, and Kathryn Goetzke
Reese returns alongside Frank Warren, founder of the global storytelling phenomenon PostSecret, and Kathryn Goetzke,who started a Global Movement to ensure all know ‘how’ to Hope. Together, they reflect on how vulnerability and creativity can transform despair into purpose. PostSecret, home to over one million anonymous secrets and a 1.6 million-strong community, has shown how sharing our truths can connect us in our most human moments. This heartfelt reunion reveals what happens when three advocates, each driven by compassion and courage, join forces to remind the world that healing begins with Hope. About Reese Butler: After losing his wife, Kristin Brooks Rossell, to suicide on April 7th, 1998, Reese founded the Kristin Brooks Hope Center and the National Hopeline Network 1.800.SUICIDE, which is now 988. In the last 25 years, more than 20 million callers to 1-800-SUICIDE have been routed to help and hope. Reese has been featured on NBC Nightly News, Fox News, and countless articles from the NY Times, Washington Post, and Rolling Stone magazine. In his free time, Reese enjoys playing the drums with his band, biking, and mastering his barbecue skills. (source: https://www.imalive.org/about) About Frank Warren and PostSecret: Frank Warren demonstrates the power of sharing your hopes, dreams, fears and failures and how PostSecret became the catalyst for his passionate commitment to mental health advocacy. What started as a community mail art project in which people anonymously share never-before-voiced secrets has since captured our collective imagination and evolved into a worldwide phenomenon. Several New York Times best-selling books, national art exhibits and an album and theatrical production later, Frank’s PostSecret website has become the most visited ad-free blog in the world, honored with multiple Webbys for “Best Blog on the Internet.” PostSecret has also raised over $1,000,000 for suicide prevention and earned Frank a Mental Health Advocacy Lifetime Achievement Award. In Frank’s interactive multimedia event, "PostSecret Live," he engages audiences with the inspiring, funny and at times heartbreaking stories behind the secrets. As he delves into how the project led to his ardent involvement in suicide awareness, Frank demonstrates that by sharing our personal struggles, we can help each other and release our burdens.
Oct 10, 2025 · 53 min
Episode 57: The Beginning of a Journey, Featuring H. Reese Butler II
When tragedy struck, H. Reese Butler II transformed his grief into action, founding 1-800-SUICIDE, the nation’s first networked suicide prevention hotline. More than twenty years later, his vision has connected millions to life-saving help and Hope. In this moving conversation, Reese shares the light-bulb moment that began it all, the obstacles he faced building a lifeline before “mental health awareness” was mainstream, and the lessons he’s learned from a lifetime dedicated to saving others. About Reese Butler: After losing his wife, Kristin Brooks Rossell, to suicide on April 7th, 1998, Reese founded the Kristin Brooks Hope Center and the National Hopeline Network 1.800.SUICIDE, which is now 988. In the last 25 years, more than 20 million callers to 1-800-SUICIDE have been routed to help and hope. Reese has been featured on NBC Nightly News, Fox News, and countless articles from the NY Times, Washington Post, and Rolling Stone magazine. In his free time, Reese enjoys playing the drums with his band, biking, and mastering his barbecue skills. (source: https://www.imalive.org/about)
Sep 17, 2025 · 37 min
Episode 59: Building Hope After Loss, featuring Megan Dominici
In this heartfelt episode, Kathryn sits down with Megan Dominici, a Napa-based youth director and mother who tragically lost her daughter, Addie. Megan opens up about her journey through grief, sharing how she has transformed pain into purpose by honoring Addie’s memory and fostering resilience in young people. Together, they explore creative ways to cope with loss, the vital role of community support, and practical strategies for navigating life after tragedy. The conversation also highlights the Hopeful Cities initiative in Napa, offering listeners insight into resources and skills that can help build hope in their own lives and communities. Napa, California joins Hopeful Cities movement, and residents are encouraged to download the no-cost resources for Hope. For more information, visit www.hopefulcities.org/unitedstates/california/napa #GriefJourney #FindingHope #HealingAfterLoss #BuildingResilience #HopefulCities #CommunitySupport #MentalHealthAwareness #InspiringStories #PodcastEpisode #TogetherWeHeal #ShineHope #HopefulMinds #HopefulMindsets
Apr 30, 2025 · 1 hr 3 min
Episode 56: Shining Hope Through Storytelling & Film Making, featuring Allison Norlian
In this episode of The Hope Matrix on Campus, host Kathryn Goetzke sits down with award-winning journalist and filmmaker Allison Norlian to discuss the power of storytelling in advocating for mental health and disability rights. Allison shares her journey from television reporting to launching her own production company, Bird Mine, and how her documentaries shed light on underrepresented voices. She opens up about her personal struggles with anxiety, the importance of maintaining mental and physical well-being, and how she manages stress through proactive self-care. They also discuss Allison’s short film THIRTEEN, inspired by her family’s experience navigating tradition and disability, and her incredible journey of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about resilience, Hope, and using storytelling to drive social change. Find out more: https://birdmine.com/
Apr 23, 2025 · 1 hr 2 min
Episode 55: Creating Pathways to Hope and Healing, featuring Christina Vela
In this episode of The Hope Matrix, host Kathryn Goetzke sits down with Christina Vela, Chief Executive Director of St. Jude’s Ranch for Children, to explore the power of hope in transforming the lives of children and young people from hard places. Christina shares her personal story of overcoming adversity, finding resilience, and achieving her goals despite early challenges. She and Kathryn discuss the importance of creating safe spaces where young people can dream again, the role of compassionate cities in fostering change, and how setting personal non-negotiables can help maintain a positive mindset. Tune in to hear an inspiring conversation on hope, healing, and making a lasting impact in the lives of others. Find out more about Christina’s work: https://stjudesranch.org/
Apr 16, 2025 · 1 hr 4 min
Episode 54: Helping Teens Shine Hope in Uncertain Times, featuring Elad Talmor
In this episode of The Hope Matrix, host Kathryn Goetzke welcomes back Elad Talmor for a powerful follow-up conversation on supporting teenagers in Israel through times of crisis. Elad shares insights from his work with youth facing anxiety, depression, PTSD, and the challenges of growing up amid uncertainty. Together, they explore the role of purpose, gratitude, compassion, and self-care in fostering resilience. Through inspiring stories of young individuals overcoming adversity, Kathryn and Elad highlight practical strategies to navigate mental health struggles, emphasizing the power of hope in transforming lives. More about Elad Talmor Elad Talmor is a dedicated educator and mental health advocate working closely with youth in Israel. With a passion for fostering resilience, he helps teenagers navigate mental health challenges through hope-based strategies, self-awareness, and meaningful goal-setting. Elad has been instrumental in guiding young individuals toward personal growth, self-acceptance, and emotional well-being.
Apr 9, 2025 · 54 min
Episode 53: From Loss to a Mission of Empowerment, featuring Michelle Cooper
In this episode of The Hope Matrix, host Kathryn Goetzke sits down with Michelle Cooper to explore her powerful journey from engineering to coaching, navigating profound grief, and finding Hope in adversity. Michelle opens up about the loss of her husband, the challenges of self-advocacy in healthcare, and how she transformed personal hardships into a mission to empower others. She shares strategies for managing stress, embracing resilience, and rewriting personal narratives, offering valuable insights for anyone facing life’s uncertainties. Join us for a heartfelt conversation on the power of self-care and human connection. More about Michelle Cooper: After a 33-year career in the Chemical and High-Tech industries, Michelle exited corporate America to embrace her purpose of helping others go further faster and achieve their full potential. Her new firm, The Mapp Co provides professional coaching services for all. This new work is aligned with her values of authenticity, gratitude, inclusive leadership and sharing her wisdom. Michelle started her career as a Polymer Chemical Engineer at Eastman Chemical company traveling the globe providing technical service. After 9 years and multiple assignments both technical and in the business, Michelle moved to Applied Materials. A results-driven collaborator, she spent her career at Applied Materials working in and/or leading virtually every operations function: supply chain, planning, and manufacturing across multiple business units. While leading a large manufacturing organization she obtained her MBA. Michelle left Applied in 2013 and returned in 2016 to lead the largest business segment through an ERP Software change. Following on she created and led the Central Operations organization with a continuous improvement vision. While away she joined SunPower Corporation as Vice President of Supply Chain managing indirect and direct supply chains, developing global planning, briefly leading Logistics, and creating a Sales and Operations Planning process from scratch. Michelle won awards for her work. Michelle closed her career at Applied as Vice President of Culture of Inclusion. Under her leadership, Applied has set forth the strategy and momentum in building a connected and courageous culture that is inclusive for all. She developed a strong team and influenced so many who are leading inclusively – engaging everyone across the enterprise. Throughout her career she amplified diverse voices and spent significant time coaching executives, employees and teams. She was the founding president for Applied’s first Women’s Professional Development Network and continued her involvement in Employee Resource Groups throughout her career. Find out more at https://themappco.com/.
Apr 2, 2025 · 58 min
Episode 52: Shining Hope Through Trauma—A Police Captain’s Journey, featuring Adam Meyers
In this powerful episode of The Hope Matrix, Kathryn Goetzke speaks with Adam Meyers, a police captain and mental health advocate, about his journey through trauma and Shine Hope Story. Adam opens up about his childhood dream of becoming a police officer, the challenges he faced with learning disabilities, and his eventual success in law enforcement. He shares his deeply personal experience of a critical incident where he was forced to use deadly force against an individual struggling with mental health issues, an event that profoundly impacted his own well-being. Adam discusses the emotional toll of trauma, his battles with major depressive disorder, PTSD, and dissociation, as well as his struggles with unhealthy coping mechanisms. Through therapy, self-care, and an unwavering commitment to healing, he found a way forward—and now advocates for mental health awareness in first responders and beyond. This episode is a candid and heartfelt conversation on the importance of seeking help, breaking the stigma around mental health, and Shining Hope even in the darkest moments. More about Adam Meyers: Adam Meyers is a police captain and mental health advocate dedicated to supporting first responders and those struggling with trauma. With over two decades in law enforcement, he has firsthand experience with the emotional challenges of the job and is passionate about normalizing conversations around mental health. Find out more: https://stopthethreatstopthestigma.org/
Mar 26, 2025 · 53 min
Episode 51: Embracing Hope Through Connection, featuring Rayne Clarkson
In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Podcast Host Kathryn sits down with Rayne Clarkson to explore personal experiences with mental health, hope, and overcoming life’s challenges. Rayne, a commodity manager in the semiconductor industry and avid athlete, shares her journey of navigating hopelessness, finding resilience, and prioritizing connection. The conversation highlights Rayne’s “RayneChats” project, where she connects with 365 strangers to learn from diverse perspectives, as well as her achievements in running marathons, triathlons, and a century bike ride despite setbacks like a car accident and heart condition. Rayne and Kathryn discuss goal-setting strategies, the impact of healthy habits like exercise and time in nature, and reframing grief as an expression of deep love. They also delve into breaking free from negative thought patterns, the role of a supportive network, and the importance of hope in mental health and suicide prevention. Rayne shares her experiences witnessing loved ones struggle with hopelessness, as well as her own journey, and how therapy and connection helped with healing. With candid stories and actionable insights, this episode is a testament to the power of resilience, connection, and hope in navigating life’s difficulties. More about Rayne Clarkson: Rayne Clarkson is a storyteller, adventurer, and advocate for the power of human connection in overcoming life’s challenges. Based in Austin, Texas, and the youngest of six sisters, she learned early on that connection is where hope grows. After discovering a hole in her heart earlier this year, Rayne chose to embrace the mountains and valleys of life with courage and hope. Her journey has taken her around the globe, running a full marathon, completing a century bike ride, skydiving, and even taking on challenges like Dry 2024. Rayne’s “Stranger Journey,” documented through her Instagram project RayneChats, began as a tribute to her Mema. While navigating grief, she honored her Mema’s remarkable ability to connect with others, which remains one of her favorite qualities. Through this project, Rayne amplifies hope by sharing the unique and inspiring stories of others, embodying her belief that meaningful connections restore faith, inspire resilience, and counter hopelessness. With six years of experience in the semiconductor industry and an MBA in finance, Rayne combines professional expertise with a passion for growth and connection. Her story is a testament to the profound strength that comes from human connection and the courage to take on life’s challenges head-on. Whether through her adventures, her professional achievements, or her commitment to amplifying hope, Rayne inspires others to embrace life’s possibilities and find light even in the darkest moments.
Mar 19, 2025 · 54 min
Episode 50: Living Authentically: A Journey through Challenges to Shine Hope, Featuring Lawanda Jackson
In this powerful episode of The Hope Matrix Podcast, Kathryn Goetzke sits down with Lawanda Jackson, an entertainer, advocate, and coach, to discuss her remarkable journey of overcoming childhood abuse, homelessness, and a stroke diagnosis. Lawanda shares deeply personal experiences, including her navigation of the entertainment industry as a drag performer, the dangers of substance abuse, and her resilience through life-altering health challenges. Together, Kathryn and Lawanda explore the power of hope, self-acceptance, and community in transforming challenges into strength. The episode also dives into Lawanda’s passion for performing, her advocacy for mental health, and her ongoing mission to inspire others by living authentically. As a critical takeaway, the episode emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing abuse. If you suspect a child is being abused, you can report it anonymously. To find your local Child Protective Services (CPS) contact information, visit Child Welfare Information Gateway. By speaking up, you can help protect children and bring hope to their futures.
Mar 4, 2025 · 53 min
Episode 49: Keeping Hope Alive, featuring Chris Hodges
In this inspiring episode of The Hope Matrix Podcast, Kathryn Goetzke sits down with Christopher Hodges, a faith coordinator and special events employee for the Mayor of Chicago. Christopher shares his powerful journey of overcoming adversity—including surviving a life-changing car accident, battling depression, and losing over 300 pounds—all while maintaining an unwavering belief in hope. Together, Kathryn and Christopher discuss the importance of faith, community, and resilience in navigating life's challenges. Christopher opens up about his work in mentoring at-risk youth, his role in Mayor Brandon Johnson's faith initiatives, and his personal connection to Reverend Jesse Jackson’s call to "Keep Hope Alive." They also explore the role of hope in mental and physical health, the power of positive thinking, and the need for seeking support during difficult times. This episode is a testament to the transformative power of hope, reminding us all that no matter the challenges we face, we can rise above them and inspire change in our communities. About Chris Hodges: Christopher Hodges is currently the Policy Analyst at the Office of the Mayor in Chicago. Christopher Hodges was born and raised in Chicago, IL to Pastor Jeffrey D. and Evangelist Virgie M. Hodges. Christopher’s employment began with the Cook County Clerk of the Circuit Court’s Office. Where he served for the past 15 years in the capacity of Assistant Chief Deputy Clerk. He currently serves as the Policy Analyst for the City of Chicago. Christopher is most famous for his work in the political movement with Faith Leaders across Cook County. He served on serval campaigns such as Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County Dorothy Brown, Mayor Brandon Johnson, and Marianna Spyropoulis Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County. Christopher has been a motivational speaker and a mentor for over 16 years. While being a mentor, he has become very active in his community and church. He also served as a music choir director and add to Reverend Jesse Jackson and Rainbow Push Coalition. This environment has fired up his passion for community activism. Since his partnership with Rev. Jackson, he has participated in various protests, jail ministry and various community outreach events.
Feb 26, 2025 · 1 hr 16 min
Episode 48: Healing and Hope Through Integrative Medicine, Featuring Dr. Angela Lorbeck
In this episode, Podcast Host Kathryn sits down with Dr. Angela Lorbeck, an expert in integrative medicine with over two decades of experience. Together, they delve into the healing power of acupuncture, the challenges and rewards of a career in integrative oncology, and the importance of fostering hope in patient care. Dr. Lorbeck shares how integrative practices like acupuncture can reduce stress, boost the immune system, and complement cancer treatments. The conversation also explores stress management, self-compassion, and emotional resilience, with personal stories highlighting the value of mindfulness, social connection, and proactive healthcare. They discuss overcoming despair, setting SMART goals, and visualizing success to navigate life’s challenges. Whether you’re seeking insights into integrative medicine or tools for a more hopeful and balanced life, this episode offers inspiration and practical wisdom. More about Dr. Angela Lorbeck: Dr. Angela Lorbeck is an integrative medicine practitioner and Founder/CEO of In:Sight Wellness Solutions. With over 22 years of experience at Rush University Medical Center, including 17 years specializing in integrative oncology, Dr. Lorbeck has worked with thousands of patients, gaining invaluable insight into the complexities of health and chronic conditions. Through this ongoing clinical practice, she has come to understand a powerful truth: when individuals actively engage in their own health and well-being, a shift occurs—creating space for healing and transformation. This profound understanding, honed through her years at Rush, inspired Dr. Lorbeck to launch In:Sight Wellness Solutions, where she now helps others unlock their full potential and experience lasting changes in their health, mindset, and overall life satisfaction. With a Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, Master's degrees in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Public Health, and certifications in mindfulness and functional medicine health coaching, Dr. Lorbeck brings a diverse and comprehensive approach to her work. Through In:Sight Wellness Solutions, she leads dynamic, interactive workshops that inspire individuals and organizations to take ownership of their health. These workshops offer practical tools for managing stress, building resilience, and creating sustainable change. For those looking to take a deeper dive into developing lasting healthy habits, Dr. Lorbeck also offers personalized coaching, guiding clients through customized strategies to integrate these changes into their daily lives—empowering them to perform at their best in today’s fast-paced, high-pressure world. Find out more about In-Sight Solutions: https://www.in-sight.solutions/ #IntegrativeMedicine #Acupuncture #HealthAndWellness #Mindfulness #StressManagement #Resilience #HopeInHealing #TheHopeMatrixPodcast
Feb 19, 2025 · 48 min
Episode 47: Navigating Severe Bleeding Disorder and Finding Hope in the Toughest Times, Featuring Dr. Christy Oaks
In this heartfelt episode of The Hope Matrix Podcast, Kathryn Goetzke talks with Dr. Christy Oaks, Clinic Director of the Community Counseling Clinic (CCC) and Clinical Instructor in the Counseling Program at the Department of Counseling & Human Services. Christy shares her inspiring journey of resilience, from navigating a severe bleeding disorder, experiencing a medical bankruptcy, and overcoming other life struggles. This episode also explores strategies for managing anxiety, the impact of systematic marginalization, and the importance of self-care and seeking professional help. Christy shares simple ways she cultivates hope, such as mindfulness, spending time in nature, crocheting, and connecting with others. Christy’s strength and story will inspire you to find hope even in the toughest times. More about Christy Oaks: Dr. Christy Oaks (she/they) is a counselor, clinic director, counselor educator, and advocate whose life has been shaped by resilience, hope, and transformation. She recognizes and reflects on the profound impact of challenges she has faced, including experiencing childhood homelessness, living with a severe bleeding disorder, navigating the impacts of an ACES score of 6, and coming out as LGBTQIA+ in her late 20s. As a counselor educator and clinic director, Christy is dedicated to fostering spaces for healing and growth while mentoring future generations of counselors. Grounded by a deep love for nature, she embraces the interconnectedness of humans and the natural world as a source of healing and inspiration. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-oaks-528233213/ Etsy: The Liminal Nook #TheHopeMatrix #Podcast #MentalHealth #Hope #MentalHealth #Hope #Resilience #SelfCare #Inspiration #BleedingDisorder #Healing
Dec 10, 2024 · 57 min
Episode 46: A Famous Hope Study, Featuring Dr. Diane Dreher
In this enlightening episode of The Hope Matrix Podcast, Kathryn Goetzke sits down with Diane Dreher, Ph.D., a positive psychology coach, researcher, and author, to explore the transformative power of hope. Diane shares her groundbreaking research on hope interventions, her personal journey of overcoming challenges, and the practical tools she uses to help others cultivate resilience and purpose. Together, they discuss the teachability of hope, goal-setting strategies, visualization techniques, and the impact of hope on mental well-being, academic success, and personal growth. Diane also shares highlights from her latest work, Pathways to Inner Peace, and her commitment to promoting hope within communities and through collaboration. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with actionable insights to help you build your "hope muscle" and create a life of purpose and possibility. About Diane Dreher: Diane Dreher, PhD, PCC, is an author, positive psychology coach, researcher, professor emeritus at Santa Clara University, and senior research scholar at the Positive Psychology Guild in the UK. Her books include The Tao of Inner Peace, The Tao of Personal Leadership, The Tao of Womanhood, Inner Gardening, and Your Personal Renaissance. Diane’s work explores the convergence of Eastern Philosophy with positive psychology, leadership, and hope. Find out more about Diane Dreher and her work: https://www.dianedreher.com/
Nov 19, 2024 · 54 min
Episode 44: Rising Above Cerebral Palsy with Hope and Inclusion, featuring Travis Davis
In this inspiring episode of The Hope Matrix, Kathryn Goetzke sits down with Travis Davis, a passionate advocate for disability awareness and host of the podcast "Off the Crutch." Born with cerebral palsy, Travis shares his personal journey of overcoming numerous medical challenges and the pivotal role that hope has played in his life. He emphasizes the importance of positive thinking, mental health awareness, and the support of his family in fostering resilience. Travis also discusses his entrepreneurial ventures and the need for greater inclusion in society, advocating for youth dealing with disabilities and bullying. Through candid conversations about therapy, stress management, and the power of community, Travis encourages listeners to cultivate hope and embrace their unique journeys. Join us for an uplifting dialogue that highlights the strength found in adversity and the transformative power of hope. About Travis Davis: Travis Davis is a disability advocate, consultant, and podcaster in Albuquerque, New Mexico. His "Off The Crutch" podcast includes personal experiences living with CP and interviews with others in the disability community. He was also born with cerebral palsy, which he has used to make an impact. His TEDx talk on social inclusion in education has helped educators not be afraid to ask questions about disabilities in the classroom. He enjoys helping others in the community by organizing adaptive sports events and through his podcast. Find out more about Travis Davis and his work: https://www.offthecrutch.com/
Nov 13, 2024 · 1 hr 11 min
Episode 43: Faith, Hope, and Face Transplant Journey, featuring Robert Chelsea
In this powerful episode of The Hope Matrix, Kathryn Goetzke talks with Robert Chelsea, the first African-American full face transplant recipient. Robert shares his journey of recovery after a life-threatening accident, emphasizing the importance of faith, trust in God’s plan, and letting go of anger. With deep insights on resilience, forgiveness, and the power of surrender, Robert’s story offers inspiration and hope to anyone facing adversity. His remarkable perspective reminds us all of the strength that comes from love, faith, and perseverance. About Robert Chelsea: Robert “The Stamp Man” Chelsea, a devout Christian and a native Angeleno, was raised on the south side of Los Angeles. He is a graduate of Manuel High School and is one of four children. He enjoys Track & Field, meeting new people and has a daughter, Ebony 30. Robert, 68, became the first black patient, and the oldest, to receive a full face transplant in a procedure at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in July 2019. Find out more about Robert Chelsea and his work: https://www.robertchelsea.org/
Oct 22, 2024 · 48 min
Episode 42: Hope on the Horizon: Navigating Breast Cancer to Shine Again, featuring Ciara Byrne
In this episode of The Hope Matrix, Kathryn Goetzke is joined by Ciara Byrne, co-founder of Green Our Planet and a resilient breast cancer survivor. Together, they discuss the power of hope in the face of personal and global challenges. Ciara shares her inspiring journey of overcoming stage 2 breast cancer, emphasizing the importance of a positive mindset, self-care, and community support. She opens up about her work with Green Our Planet, a non-profit organization connecting students to nature through school gardens and hydroponics labs, currently reaching over 1,100 schools across 42 states. About Ciara Byrne: Ciara Byrne is a documentary filmmaker and social impact entrepreneur. In 2013 Ciara and Kim MacQuarrie founded Green Our Planet and together with their team they helped create one of the largest and most comprehensive school garden and hydroponics programs in the United States. Currently, Green Our Planet is operating in 10 states and impacting over 140,000 students. In 2019 Ciara was selected from 5,000 applications along with 19 other nonprofit leaders to be a 2019 Obama Fellow. The Obama Foundation is supporting Ciara and the team at Green Our Planet to scale their program across the United States and beyond. In 2001, Ciara set up and ran a film production company, Lion Television, with offices in LA and New York. During that time, she managed over 60 employees and produced hundreds of films a year for PBS, The Discovery Channel, National Geographic, PBS, BBC, Fox, and E! Ciara uses her background in television to include educational films as a core part of the Green Our Planet offerings to schools. Find out more about Ciara and Green Our Planet: https://www.greenourplanet.org
Oct 15, 2024 · 52 min
Episode 41: Finding Hope After Active Military Duty, featuring MaCherie Dunbar
Join us for an inspiring episode of The Hope Matrix Podcast featuring MaCherie Dunbar, Air Force Veteran, Advocate, and Entrepreneur. In this episode, MaCherie reflects on her experiences transitioning from military service, navigating post-deployment challenges, and advocating for vital support services for veterans. She sheds light on the profound challenges faced by veterans entering civilian life, particularly concerning mental health, and emphasizes the importance of accessing available resources and destigmatizing seeking help. This conversation offers valuable insights into resilience, the impact of community support, and navigating major life transitions. Tune in to gain inspiration and practical wisdom for eliminating challenges with compassion and hope. More about MaCherie Dunbar: MaCherie is an entrepreneur, public speaker, advocate, lobbyist, and artist whose purpose is to lead with compassion and integrity with the hopes of inspiring others to be courageous agents of change. She is a veteran of the Air Force Reserve, having served for 12 years to include two deployments as an operator with RED HORSE, the Air Force’s combat engineering squadron. MaCherie served the majority of her career during Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, a discriminatory policy that banned LGBT+ personnel from serving openly in the armed forces. In the almost 10 years since transitioning from the military, she has been a staunch and aggressive advocate and ally for all underserved communities, especially veterans and members of the LGTBQIA+ community. Her work has included serving as a board member for an LGBT center in Pennsylvania, executive director for political organizations, a lobbyist for the largest veteran organization in the country, and a subject matter expert for a Member of the US House of Representatives.
Oct 8, 2024 · 1 hr 3 min
Episode 40: The Power of Gratitude for Hope, featuring Dr. Erwin Benedict Valencia, DPT
Join us in this episode of The Hope Matrix Podcast as we delve into the inspiring journey of Erwin Valencia, founder of Gratitude Gang, and Former Physical Therapist and Assistant Athletic Trainer of New York Knicks. From his humble beginnings to becoming a leader in mental health advocacy, Erwin shares his story of hope and the power of gratitude. As the founder of Gratitude Gang, a mental health foundation focused on supporting children in the Philippines, Erwin discusses the importance of fostering hope and resilience, especially in underserved communities. Through heartfelt conversations and personal anecdotes, Erwin and host Kathryn Goetzke explore the transformative impact of gratitude and the role it plays in creating a brighter future for all. The Podcast host, Kathryn, emphasizes, "Gratitude is an intention. We've got to learn how to be grateful. We've gotta learn how to incorporate these strategies into our lives and into the lives of others, because we do have so much to be grateful for." Tune in to discover how Erwin's message of hope is changing lives and inspiring others to embrace gratitude as a powerful tool for personal and societal change. Erwin Benedict Valencia served as the Team Physical Therapist and Assistant Athletic Trainer of the New York Knicks. He also acts as the team’s Wellness Lead, initiating the team’s mindfulness program, including the first-ever daily in-season breathwork program in the NBA, a passion he’s been personally practicing for more than 30 years. He brings a truly “whole-listic” approach to athlete wellness and performance, combining his knowledge in sports science and rehabilitation, manual and movement therapies, mindfulness, positive psychology, biohacking, and well-being coaching. He begins every day in GRATITUDE and has found it his duty and responsibility to truly live life zestfully– with the purpose of inspiring young Filipinos (and non-Filipinos) to pursue their dreams, be in service of others, and bring global impact, in whatever field they’re passionate about. Find out more about Erwin Valencia and the Gratitude Gang: https://gratitudegang.org/
Oct 1, 2024 · 55 min
Episode 39: The Power of Movement and Hope, featuring Marisa Hamamoto
In this episode of The Hope Matrix Podcast, Host Kathryn Goetzke had an inspiring conversation with Marissa Hamamoto, the Founder, CEO, and Artistic Director of Infinite Flow, an inclusive dance company. Marissa shares her journey of overcoming challenges, including a spinal cord infarction that changed her life and career. Marissa emphasizes the power of movement, particularly dance, in promoting emotional positivity and well-being, and the importance of inclusive language in dance education. This episode of The Hope Matrix Podcast is a testament to the power of hope and the transformative impact of dance in fostering inclusivity and positive change. Tune in for an enriching conversation that will inspire you to embrace diversity and celebrate the joy of movement. More about Marissa Hamamoto: Named 1 of 13 People Magazine “Women Changing the World 2021”, Marisa Hamamoto is a stroke survivor living with PTSD, an invisible disability, speaker, dancer, and a proud 4th Generation Japanese American. After feeling like the “other” throughout her life through anti-Asian discrimination, body shaming, rejection as a dancer, sexual assault by a dance teacher, and stroke, Marisa developed deep empathy towards those who are excluded. This eventually led her to find Infinite Flow in 2015. Since 2015, Marisa has led Infinite Flow’s dancers to perform at over 140 events, from school assemblies to corporate events with Apple, Facebook, Red Bull, Porsche, Farmer’s Insurance, International Monetary Fund, Kaiser Permanente, among others. Her videos have been viewed by over 75 Million people on Facebook alone with Sheryl Sandberg and George Takei being amongst the public figures that have shared her work, and she has been featured on NBC Today, ABC Good Morning America, among other media outlets. Marisa and wheelchair dancer Piotr Iwanicki made history becoming the first dancers to perform at Apple’s Steve Jobs Theater with CEO Tim Cook in the audience. She was also a fellow within the Red Bull Amaphiko and Facebook Community Leadership Program and was named 1 of 13 People Magazine Women Changing the World 2021, InStyle Magazine Badass 50 2021, and 1 of 9 women leaders “reimagining sport" for adidas International Women's Day Campaign 2020. Most recently during the 2020 pandemic, Marisa was featured on Marie TV / Marie Forleo Podcast, and along with Infinite Flow, launched Scoops of Inclusion, a 47 min short film celebrating diversity and empowering kids to take an active role in creating a more inclusive world where we each feel we belong. Marisa is a leader, artist, and speaker on the rise looking to empower people through dance and storytelling, to think outside the box, disable bias, build new connections, and create breakthrough innovations. Check Out Infinite Flow Dance: https://www.infiniteflowdance.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InfiniteFlowDance/ Instagram: @InfiniteFlowDance Twitter: @InfiniteFlowOrg