In this episode of The Circle of Hope, I’m joined by the incredible Ingrid Gavshon—accomplished documentary filmmaker, masterful coach, and a dear friend who truly embodies compassion and connection across cultures. Our conversation is a soulful exploration of how meaningful relationships are fostered, especially with those who may seem different from us on the surface. Ingrid draws from her rich experiences growing up in South Africa during apartheid, traveling the world, and sitting across from controversial figures as a filmmaker. Her insights remind us how vital it is to move past headlines and labels, and to “see people for who they are, rather than what they represent.” Together, we talk about the power of asking real, curious questions, how to navigate cultural differences with humility, and the courage it takes to find humanity even in the most polarizing situations. We share personal stories—everything from dealing with tough conversations in family, learning to listen for what’s not being said, to transforming friction in teams and cross-cultural encounters into genuine understanding. If you’ve ever wondered how to hold space for difficult dialogue, become a better listener, or simply rekindle the joy of human connection in a divided world, this conversation is for you. Watch This If: - You want to learn how to connect deeply with people across cultural, political, or personal divides - You struggle with “hot button” conversations and are looking for ways to navigate them gracefully - You’re curious about the behind-the-scenes work of a documentary filmmaker - You value empathy, curiosity, and courageous conversations - You want practical tips to foster belonging and understanding at work or in your personal life Episode Highlights: [00:05:28] Ingrid shares her experience interviewing controversial and vulnerable figures in South Africa, and how she learned to “ask questions without blame or judgment.” [00:11:53] Navigating cross-cultural communication: Why Ingrid always studies a culture before engaging—and Valerie’s contrasting “boots on the ground” approach. [00:18:31] The story of a global cultural clash over flags in a youth program, and what it teaches about meaning, pride, and asking curious questions. [00:28:36] Ingrid recalls interviewing the leader of a right-wing group after a violent event, and her technique for building trust in tense situations. [00:42:24] Valerie and Ingrid discuss the fraying of real community in the digital age and the importance of intentionality in relationships. [00:51:47] Valerie shares a powerful moment with her godfather on seeking hope and perspective across political divides. [01:14:03] Both reflect on how they process strong reactions to world events—gathering information, finding the right people to talk to, and holding space for multiple truths. Quotes to Remember: - “We both see people for who they are rather than for what they represent.” – Ingrid Gavshon - “If you really know somebody else, you probably find some level of commonality… but it’s about listening for what’s not being said.” – Ingrid Gavshon - “Our job is to get in alignment with that way of serving... There’s not one right way to do it.” – Valerie Hope - “People aren’t their politics. They have lives… hopes and dreams and struggles.” – Ingrid Gavshon What You’ll Learn: - How to ask deeper questions that invite openness, not defensiveness - The difference between seeking to understand vs. seeking to win debates - Cross-cultural communication insights—preparation vs. organic connection - Strategies for defusing tension and bringing humanity back to polarized topics - The transformative power of storytelling, curiosity, and community - How to identify your own intentions in difficult conversations - That there are many valid ways to contribute to social change Resources: - Book: Social Change Now by Deepa Iyer  -https://www.deepaiyer.com/home/social-change-now Contact Information: Guest: Ingrid Gavshon - LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/ingrid-gavshon - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ingrid-gavshon Host: Valerie Hope - Website:https://www.valeriehope.com - Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/valeriehope/ - LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriehope/ - Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ValerieVHope - Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@ConnecttoJoy Production Support: Lucy Hope - Podcast Editing, Copy, and Publishing. #CircleOfHope #CourageousConversation #CuriosityConnects #GlobalCitizenship #EmpathyInAction

In this powerful episode of The Circle of Hope, I’m thrilled to welcome Linda Balola, a lecturer and peacebuilder whose journey from the Democratic Republic of Congo to Rwanda has been marked by transformation, learning, and the courage to shift entire communities toward healing. Our story together began serendipitously in Nairobi, Kenya, when Linda recognized me from my TEDx talk—a beautiful reminder of how messages ripple globally, touching lives we may never even imagine reaching. Linda opens up about her personal evolution, moving from deep-seated judgments and cultural stereotypes to embracing the transformative principles of Nonviolent Communication (NVC). We dig into how she not only teaches these practices at the Protestant University of Rwanda but lives them—helping young people from conflict-impacted backgrounds explore empathy, process trauma, and rewrite how they relate to themselves and others. Our candid conversation explores the role of needs, feelings, and strategies for authentic connection and dives into our own real-life struggles and triumphs using NVC (including my very human experience navigating emotions at Costco!). If you’re curious about building peace in divided communities, shifting personal relationships, or simply want to understand yourself and others more deeply, this heartfelt exchange is for you. Watch This If: - You’re curious about how Nonviolent Communication (NVC) works in real life - You want practical strategies for transforming conflict—personally or within your community - You're interested in peacebuilding, empathy, and authentic relationships - You’ve ever struggled with communicating your needs, expressing emotions, or breaking through stereotypes - You’re looking for inspiration from someone living and teaching hope amid challenging circumstances Episode Highlights: [00:01:33] Linda shares the surprising story of recognizing me from a TEDx talk halfway across the world and how that experience redefined my sense of impact. [00:06:31] Linda describes finding Nonviolent Communication as a student and how it dramatically changed her life, from judgment to empathy. [00:14:25] We discuss the unique challenges—and healing possibilities—of teaching NVC to students from conflict-affected regions in Central Africa. [00:23:41] A deep dive into the concepts of “jackal” vs. “giraffe” communication styles, and how even in the face of personal tragedy, empathy can create understanding. [00:36:33] Valerie shares a vulnerable, real-world NVC moment at Costco, showing how unmet needs and emotions can be navigated gracefully. [01:02:10] Linda reflects on the specific needs met by our conversation, including contribution, learning, and connection—even while unwell. [01:06:45] Exploring why compliments and praise are also subtle forms of judgment—and how specificity can foster true understanding. Quotes to Remember: - “Everything we do, we do to meet the needs... Even if you commit something that is not good, know that you still have something good inside.” – Linda Balola - “Sometimes our needs are not meant to be met by other people. The need that we have are needs that we need to fulfill—we then select strategies that would address that need for us.” – Valerie Hope - “Nonviolent Communication is not a therapy session, but it can heal.” – Linda Balola - “Beyond right or wrong, we can still connect.” – Linda Balola What You’ll Learn: - The fundamental components of Nonviolent Communication and their practical application - How to shift from habitual judgment (“jackal”) to empathic (“giraffe”) listening and expression - The importance of identifying and owning your own needs in moments of conflict - How transparency and self-connection foster resilience and understanding, even in trauma-impacted settings - Ways to compassionately hold space for strong emotions—both your own and others’ - Why cultural and personal stereotypes can be overcome through intentional connection - How even compliments and praise can be forms of judgment, and the value of specificity in affirmation Contact Information: Guest: Linda Balola - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindaducc?igsh=am44NDBpOTFxNDNl - LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/linda-balola-sylvine-2a2b36183 - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1HwgWCZrm1/?mibextid=wwXIfr Host: Valerie Hope - Website:https://www.valeriehope.com - Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/valeriehope/ - LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriehope/ - Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ValerieVHope - Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@ConnecttoJoy Production Support: Lucy Hope - Podcast Editing, Copy, and Publishing. #CircleOfHope #NonviolentCommunication #PeaceBuilding #Empathy #TransformConflict

In this heartfelt and laughter-filled episode of The Circle of Hope, I reconnect with my brilliant, soulful, and multifaceted friend, AJ Thomas. Our journey together—spanning unexpected musical moments, executive coaching at Berkeley, and transformative collaborations at Google X—sets the stage for a candid conversation about the art of building deep, enduring connections both personally and professionally. AJ shares her inspiring career arc: venturing from corporate leadership at Google and Alphabet to founding her own VC firm, Good Trouble Ventures, where she now pioneers the fusion of creativity, technology, and impact. We dive deep into what it really takes to create relationships that transcend time and space—the magic that allows you to pick up with someone right where you left off. AJ gives us a peek into her journey, the influence of her grandfather, her “why not me?” moments, and how belonging starts from within. Together, we explore the challenges and opportunities of bridging humanity and technology, the importance of authentic curiosity, and the power of being your best (and truest) self in every room you enter. It’s a rich, soulful, and joy-infused conversation you won’t want to miss! Watch This If: - You’re curious about making and sustaining deep personal or professional relationships - You want to know how to switch—and thrive—in radically different careers - You’re seeking inspiration about blending creativity and business - You wonder how to stay grounded as technology transforms our lives - You want tactical tips on creating authentic, resilient connections - You need a reminder of the power (and importance) of belonging Episode Highlights: [00:01:15] – The unforgettable moment AJ serenaded our group with “Over the Rainbow” and how music ignites connection [00:04:57] – AJ and I reflect on the roots of our friendship and what makes “soul surfing” conversations so special [00:10:13] – The secret sauce of enduring friendships: mutual curiosity and presence [00:15:29] – How AJ leapt from Google X into venture capital, guided by curiosity and creativity [00:30:37] – Being the “Selma Bridge”: AJ’s vision for connecting creatives and technologists [00:36:03] – The lessons AJ’s grandfather and children instilled—about competition, courage, and staying true [00:45:20] – Navigating connection in the age of AI: why being a great human matters more than ever Quotes to Remember: - “You must first belong to you so that whatever room you walk into, you’re already present.” – AJ Thomas - “Every job I’ve had, I’ve never done before. That’s just my pioneering spirit.” – AJ Thomas - “Mutual curiosity is the basis of deep connection, in any relationship.” – Valerie Hope - “We are one decision or connection away from a radically different life.” – AJ Thomas What You’ll Learn: - How to foster lasting connections that survive distance and time - The role of mutual curiosity in deep personal and professional relationships - Strategies for reinventing your career—even when it means starting from scratch - The importance of bringing your full, creative self into every space - How to blend business, creativity, and service to make real impact - Why belonging is foundational—and starts with belonging to yourself - Navigating relationships and leadership in a rapidly evolving, tech-driven world Contact Information: Guest: AJ Thomas - Website: https://www.thetroublemakerlab.com - Website: https://www.helloajthomas.com/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helloajthomas/?hl=en - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chaospilot Host: Valerie Hope - Website:https://www.valeriehope.com - Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/valeriehope/ - LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriehope/ - Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ValerieVHope - Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@ConnecttoJoy Production Support: Lucy Hope - Podcast Editing, Copy, and Publishing. #SoulfulLeadership #VentureCapital #AuthenticConnection #CreativityAndBusiness #CircleOfHope