All too often, when someone throws out a new idea, someone responds "No." How would things change if our response was more like Andrew's? To say "Yes and..." or even "This could be even better if..." Andrew and I discuss hope in improv, Jewish American history, and being peacemakers in our local neighborhoods.

Two more Villanova seniors, Patrick and Connor, reflect on Hope along with their buddy Ace, in their new season of post-college life. Connor and Patrick also offer unique perspective as members of ROTC, and their willingness to serve in the defense of the US as they start their careers in the Army and Navy. They give some advice to their younger selves, reflect on hope in the present, and encourage their elders to be optimistic about the future.

We’re back at Villanova University, just northwest of central Philly, with our friend Ace and a good friend, Noah. Noah and Ace come from very different parts of the country, are poised to begin careers in different fields, and at this transitional time of life, offer their insights on hope.

We’re still in Philadelphia, with a brief glimpse into the hope of a few people I met along the way in Philly – a retired teacher and her husband at a Phillies game, tour guide Nick, bus driver Aaron, and my own recollection of a conversation with a man I met watching a Flyers playoff game in Chinatown.

Tacoma, Phoenix, and Nashville wrap up as we move on to Philadelphia! We’re kicking things off in Philly at Villanova University with now-recent graduate, Ace Carr, and Senior Director of First Year Experience, Alicia Dunphy-Culp! We’re talking about hope from the unique point of view of the college experience as a sort of gateway into the future.

Shane and Faith Ecklund relocated to TN many years ago from Washington and have been working in Christian ministry. They share openly about their work, blessings, and challenges, for example Faith speaks openly about how her HOPE is a part of her experience of 29 years in a wheelchair. Many thanks to the Ecklunds and their church, One Church Home!

https://onechurchhome.com/

We’re on the road in this episode, still in Nashville but hearing from a variety of people! We’ve got a piano tuner, working musicians, visitors from other areas (including Turkey!), and a music college grad making his way. This is American Hope in Nashville.

Mimi and Natalie are in their 20s, early in their careers and adult lives. We sat down at a popular restaurant in East Nashville (and you’ll feel like your at the table with us, with all the ambient sound!) We talked about what gives them hope in this young adult season of life, choices, and changes. And it wouldn’t be a Nashville episode if I didn’t include some live music! Thanks to David Graham (@davidgrahamnashville) and his band Slick Joe Fick (@kelleysheroes) and Todd Jewel.