Magic in the Room #174: Building Hope with Guest Dr. Chan Hellman

November 14, 2023

Today, we continue our series on hope by replaying one of our favorite episodes, which lays the foundation for much of our thinking. Hope may seem intangible, but leaders can intentionally nurture hope in the people around them. In this episode, 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 M. Hellman is a professor of social work at the University of Oklahoma and Director of The Hope Research Center. He has written over 100 scientific publications and presented at numerous national and international conferences worldwide. Chan's research is focused on hope as a psychological strength, helping children and adults overcome trauma and adversity. Chan's book "Hope Rising: How the Science of Hope Can Change Your Life" with his co-author Casey Gwinn is published by Morgan James.

Listen now on your favorite platform!

 

Credits: 

  • This episode of Magic in the Room was recorded at Story Catcher Studio in Tulsa, OK 
  • Music by Evan Grim. Find his music on Apple Music

Magic in the Room #197: Leadership Lessons for 2026

By Sarah Whitfield • February 18, 2026
In this episode of Magic in the Room, Luke, Hannah, and Chris explore the lessons, transitions, and leadership insights they’re carrying forward into 2026, emphasizing the importance of narrowing focus, letting go of resistance, and aligning with natural rhythms to create meaningful momentum. They discuss how personal and professional growth often emerges through periods of chaos and transition, highlighting themes such as intentionality, subtraction as a multiplier, and the courage required to release control, certainty, and outdated habits. Drawing on their work with purpose-driven organizations, they explain how leadership transformation begins internally, noting that organizational change is inseparable from personal development and mindset shifts. They also explore how embracing disturbance, addressing root causes instead of symptoms, and cultivating hope rather than cynicism can unlock resilience, stronger culture, and long-term performance.

Magic in the Room #196: Leading with Hope in a Cynical World

January 12, 2026
In this episode of Magic in the Room, Luke, Hannah, and Chris delve into the timely topic of hope versus cynicism in leadership, particularly in a world rife with uncertainty and negativity. The discussion focuses on whether hope alone is sufficient for transformational leadership or if, in environments steeped in cynicism, leaders must amplify their energy and intentionality, sometimes matching the intensity of cynics to move organizations forward. They examine the "hope recipe," which involves envisioning a better future, creating a pathway, and having agency. They also discuss the difficulty of maintaining agency when systems, culture, or fatigue threaten to sap it. They differentiate between strategically "letting go" and simply "giving up," emphasizing the importance of support, accountability, and self-awareness as antidotes to cynicism. 
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