Magic in the Room #120: Hope Theory with Special Guest Dr. Chan Hellman
September 20, 2022
Hope may seem like an intangible idea, but leaders can intentionally nurture hope in the people around them. In this replay episode of Magic in the Room, Chris, Hannah, and special guest Dr. Chan Hellman discuss the three elements of hope: Goals, Pathways, and Willpower. Leaders can develop hope by ensuring these three elements are present.
Chan Joined the University of Oklahoma in 2002. Chan is a professor in the Anne & Henry Zarrow School of Social Work and Founding Director of The Hope Research Center. Chan holds Adjunct Professor appointments in the Department of Internal Medicine and Department of Pediatrics for the OU College of Medicine and the Department of Health Promotion Sciences for the OU College of Public Health.
Chan has numerous scholarly publications in scientific journals, technical reports, books and has presented his research at both national and international conferences. Chan’s research is focused on the application of hope theory to those impacted by trauma and adversity. He is also interested in the impact of prevention and intervention services on increasing and sustaining client hope.
Chan teaches master’s and doctoral level students primarily in the areas of positive psychology, research methods, and statistics. He also directs student research in the areas of hope and nonprofit organizations.
Chan is a lifelong Oklahoman, and lives in Tulsa Oklahoma with his wife Kendra. They enjoy spending time with their children and grandchildren, traveling, and reading.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Hope Rising: How the Science of HOPE Can Change Your Life
- The Transformational Consumer: Fuel a Lifelong Love Affair with Your Customers by Helping Them Get Healthier, Wealthier, and Wiser
Get a free Magic in the Room hat by posting a review and sending a screenshot to:
info@purposeandperformancegroup.com
Music by evangrimmusic.com
Recorded at AUIDEO studio
in Bozeman, MT
Support from techblogwriter.co.uk

In this episode of "Magic in the Room," hosts Luke, Hannah, and Chris delve into the themes of leadership, agency, and emotional regulation amidst chaos. They discuss how leaders can maintain control and purpose when faced with unexpected challenges or disruptions, emphasizing the importance of not succumbing to emotional hijacks. The conversation highlights the concept of "amygdala hijack," where emotional responses can override rational thinking, and the need for leaders to remain intentional and mindful in their reactions. They also explore the idea of maintaining emotional bank accounts, where relationships are built through consistent positive interactions, and the dangers of making impulsive withdrawals during moments of emotional flooding.

In this episode of "Magic in the Room," hosts Hannah Bratterud, Chris Province, and Luke Freeman delve into the complexities of leadership, particularly when dealing with personal and professional challenges that aren't covered by standard policies. They discuss the importance of embracing a holistic community approach in workplaces, where personal and work lives intersect, and the difficulties leaders face when unexpected events, such as illness or loss, occur. The conversation is deeply personal, as Chris shares the story of his late friend Doug, highlighting the impact of personal relationships on professional environments. The discussion highlights the need for strategic planning that includes contingencies for unexpected disruptions and the importance of vulnerability and open communication in building trust within teams.