What does it take to survive in the NFL? Former NFL quarterback Garrett Gilbert joins the Hope Ignited Podcast to share the wild reality behind his football journey. From learning under Tom Brady during a Super Bowl run to sharing a locker room with Cam Newton, Garrett opens up about the highs, setbacks, and resilience it takes to stay in the league.

After being cut 11 times and bouncing between teams, Garrett finally got his moment. In one of the craziest stories of his career, he got a cal telling him to get to Washington immediately. Hours later he was on a private jet headed to DC, preparing to start an NFL game for a team he had only been with for 48 hours… barely knowing the playbook.

In this episode Garrett talks about:

• Playing with Tom Brady and the Patriots

• Life as an NFL journeyman quarterback

• His time with Cam Newton with the Carolina Panthers

• Starting an NFL game for the Dallas Cowboys

• The pressure, setbacks, and lessons behind chasing an NFL dream

Garrett’s story is a powerful reminder that sometimes you learn more from waiting and persevering than you do from winning.

What happens when faith meets a dry season? In this powerful conversation, Ashley and Kevin welcome Vanessa DeSilvio, the actress behind the Samaritan woman at the well in The Chosen, to talk about calling, obedience, and hope in seasons of waiting. From her roots in a Venezuelan family to years of training in theater and dance, Vanessa shares how God has shaped her journey both on and off the screen.

Vanessa reflects on the spiritual weight of portraying Photina, how that role changed the way she sees Jesus, and why vulnerability in real life can be even harder than stepping into a character. She opens up about motherhood, identity beyond acting, navigating career dry spells, and trusting God when the next step is unclear. This episode also touches on her heart for Venezuela, the power of creativity, and the stirring she feels to step into motivational speaking as part of her next season.

If you have ever felt stuck, uncertain, or spiritually dry, this conversation will remind you that you can always come back to the well. Faith is not about getting it right once. It is about returning again and again. If you need hope, encouragement, and a fresh spark for your journey, you will find it here on Hope Ignited.

What really happens behind hit records… and behind the Grammys?On this episode of Hope Ignited, Ashley and Kevin sit down with Grammy-winning engineer and producer Tre Nagella for a rare, behind-the-scenes conversation about the music industry most people never get to hear. From mixing albums for legendary artists like Kirk Franklin and Ed Sheeran to surviving the pressure, long nights, and high-stakes moments inside the studio, Tre breaks down what it truly takes to build a lasting career in music.He shares untold stories from working with major artists, explains how bedroom records turn into global hits, and reveals what really goes on at the Grammys when the cameras are off. Yes, snacks are involved. Tre also opens up about the emotional side of the job, why trust and vulnerability matter more than perfect vocals, and how real human connection can shape a record just as much as talent or technology. Along the way, he reflects on unexpected moments with some of the biggest names in music that changed how he views his craft and his purpose.If you’ve ever wondered how hit songs are really made, what engineers actually do, or what it takes to survive in an industry few people understand, this episode delivers insight, inspiration, and industry truth you will not hear anywhere else.
Press play and get ignited.

On this episode, Ashley and Kevin welcome LeTitia Owens – fashion icon, stylist to the stars, gospel singer, and founder of an inspiring nonprofit. From working with legends like Prince and Kirk Franklin to launching her own hat line, she brings a joyful energy as she shares her journey through creativity, faith, and resilience.

Hear how LeTitia found purpose after walking through a season of homelessness, ultimately turning her pain into hope for thousands through her "Where Are You? Outreach." She opens up about the importance of serving those in need, weaving in powerful stories from BET’s Sunday Best, and gives practical, honest advice about style and marriage.

Don’t miss these candid moments: a behind-the-scenes Prince audition, hilarious car-naming traditions, and why LeTitia believes music truly changes lives.

If you’re looking for a dose of inspiration, laughter, and real talk about igniting hope and living out your purpose, this episode is for you.

Join Ashley and Kevin as they welcome special guest George Getschow for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation about the transformative power of literature, legacy, and friendship. George shares his journey from a dairy farm in Chicago to becoming the torchbearer for the legendary novelist Larry McMurtry and his iconic bookshop in Archer City, Texas.

From childhood favorites like Dr. Seuss and Jack London to discovering the endless treasures within McMurtry’s literary universe, listeners are taken on a tour through the value of reading, the mysteries of book collecting, and the importance of keeping literary legacies alive. George details memorable anecdotes about McMurtry, the enchanting quirks hidden throughout the bookshop, and the surprising connections to figures like Chip and Joanna Gaines and Taylor Sheridan.
Whether you’re a lifelong reader or simply looking for hope and inspiration, this episode invites you to experience the magic of books, friendship, and the vibrant spirit of Texas storytelling.

In this episode, Ashley and Kevin sit down with creative force and entrepreneur Terrance Price. From his early days hustling art for chips in Memphis, to competing at national design competitions in New York, he shares his journey through the worlds of art, branding, business, and community building.

Discover how Terrance blends creativity and faith in every project, including his work with major brands like UPS and NASCAR, and his deep-rooted passion for music and mentorship. The conversation dives into the importance of environment, collaboration, and service, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how he’s impacting the next generation of artists and entrepreneurs.

You’ll also hear rapid-fire creative picks, stories about unforgettable open mic nights, and a heartfelt take on how hope and faith fuel both personal and community transformation. Whether you’re a seasoned creator or just dream of building something new, this episode will leave you inspired to chase your vision, serve others, and live boldly.

Chicago Bears cornerback Josh Blackwell joins hosts Ashley Miller and Kevin Hail on the Hope Ignited Podcast to share an inside look at his NFL journey, the story behind his pink cleats, and why he chose to represent breast cancer awareness through the NFL’s My Cause My Cleats campaign supporting ‪NBCF.

In this episode, Josh Blackwell opens up about his path from growing up as a multisport athlete, to battling through a major meniscus injury at Duke, to the emotional challenge of going undrafted to the Philadelphia Eagles, before eventually finding his place with the Chicago Bears. He talks openly about the pressure, the setbacks, and the moment his career finally turned around. Josh also shares the deeply personal reason he chose breast cancer awareness, how his girlfriend’s grandmother and relatives in his own family shaped his decision to support the cause. He explains why shining a light on breast cancer means so much to him, and why using his NFL platform for something bigger than football is a responsibility he takes seriously.

Whether you're a Chicago Bears fan, an NFL follower, or someone looking for motivation and resilience, Josh Blackwell’s honesty and determination make this a powerful conversation worth your time.

Hit subscribe for more inspiring episodes of Hope Ignited, and drop a comment to show support for breast cancer!

"These cleats are more than a design… they’re a reminder that hope matters, access matters, and no one should have to face a breast cancer diagnosis alone." -Josh Blackwell

Visit https://nbcf.org to learn more about NBCF’s life-saving programs and join me in giving HOPE now.

In this powerful episode, Ashley and Kevin welcome back Mechelle and David Freeman who share their incredible experience of surviving Hurricane Melissa, the strongest hurricane ever to strike Jamaica. The Freemans give a raw and honest retelling of being stranded as the catastrophic Category 5 storm battered Jamaica’s shores.

Listeners will hear about the chaos and moments of hope that held their group together through mandatory evacuations, hunkering down with hundreds of others, and experiencing the immense power of nature up close. Mechelle and David also discuss the emotional aftermath and how their marriage, faith, and community were deeply impacted by the experience.

The episode also features Ethan Forhetz, from Convoy of Hope, who sheds light on the ongoing recovery efforts in Jamaica and explains how listeners can make a tangible difference in the weeks and months ahead. Learn how you can support disaster-affected communities for the immediate and long-term recovery assistance that is needed.

Tune in to hear this inspirational story of resilience, community, faith, and hope.