Celebrating Hope: A Season of Milestones and New Beginnings
Here’s what we are sharing for this week’s Hopebeat Weekly:
- July 20th, iFred and Kathryn Sobriety Anniversary
- Chad Lawson’s “Where There is Hope”
- Introducing Shine Hope for All
- International Self-Care Day: Spark Hope for Yourself
- Shine Hope with Gard Jameson and Scarlett Lewis
- Shine Hope: A Workshop on Creating Better Futures
- Remembering Our Hope Expert, Jim Doty
- Cool Hope-Inspired Reads: The Biggest Little Book About Hope
As we move forward from the first-ever International Day of Hope, officially declared by the United Nations and celebrated globally on July 12, 2025, we remain deeply moved by the overwhelming support and participation from individuals and organizations worldwide. From grassroots gatherings to global media features, Hope was not just a feeling—it was a movement.
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July 20th: iFred and my Sobriety Anniversary
On July 20th, 2025 I celebrated 21 years of iFred and grateful sobriety. I wouldn’t be here without all of you, so thank you!!
I’m on bit of a social detox, after just coming off the International Day of Hope, and am celebrating with my brother and mom in Glacier National Park. I’m having the time of my life, hiking every day and visiting my old favorite boss in Missoula, Montana the amazing Susan Ash. Susan Founded Partners Creative, and taught me about launching brands with through innovative marketing campaigns using strategies she had learned from some of the best and biggest brands in the world. She taught me the importance of doing my best, not giving up, and having fun along the way.
I’m grateful to all of you that have supported my journey. I learn from every person I meet, and incorporate it in all we do for Hope. So THANK YOU!!
Much love and appreciation for you all!
Chad Lawson’s, “Where There is Hope”
“Hope doesn’t always show up loudly. Sometimes it’s a quiet breath, a soft light that finds you when you need it most.”
To honor the first-ever International Day of Hope on July 12th, pianist and composer Chad Lawson has released a touching new solo piano piece titled “Where There Is Hope.” Shared across his social channels, Lawson described it as “a small song for the quiet moments”—a gentle reminder that hope often whispers rather than shouts.
Introducing Shine Hope for All
A groundbreaking program designed to integrate the science of Hope into schools, workplaces, and communities. Through evidence-based tools and practical exercises, Shine Hope for All equips individuals to build emotional resilience, overcome adversity, and live with purpose.
Whether you’re an educator, a leader, or someone simply seeking more light in your life, this program is for you.
International Self-Care Day: Spark Hope for Yourself
This July 24, on International Self-Care Day, we’re reminding everyone that Hope is one of the most powerful forms of self-care.
Taking time to nourish your mind, body, and spirit isn’t selfish—it’s essential. And one of the most impactful ways to do that is by intentionally creating sparks for Hope in your daily life.
Here’s how you can start today:
- Make a nutritious meal: Fuel your body and mind with love. (Explore Walmart Healthy Recipes)
- Write down 3 things you’re hopeful for: Name your vision. Anchor your energy. (Van Gogh Sunflower Gratitude Journal)
- Plant Seeds for Hope: Let the world remind you that change is always possible. (Burplee Sunflower Seeds)
- Light a candle and breathe deeply: Reset your nervous system. Center in possibility. (Sweet Sugared Lemon Candle)
- Practice one SHINE skill: Pick a micro-action from Stress Skills, Happiness Habits, Inspired Actions, Nourishing Networks, or Eliminating Challenges. (Shine Hope Infographic)
Hope is more than a feeling—it’s a practice. And every act of self-care that nurtures your Hope is a gift not just to yourself, but to the world.
Shine Hope with Gard Jameson and Scarlett Lewis
On July 9th, Kathryn Goetzke was joined by Scarlett Lewis and Gerard Jameson via live stream to talk about love, hope, and compassion. Watch the full replay here.
Shine Hope: A Workshop on Creating Better Futures
On July 6, in celebration of the first-ever International Day of Hope recognized by the United Nations, we hosted a meaningful virtual workshop: “Shine Hope: A Workshop on Creating Better Futures.”
Led by Kathryn Goetzke, along with Sister Mary of the Brahma Kumaris and Ashley Goeken, President of the United Nations Association of Chicago, the session explored the science and soul of Hope.
Remembering Our Hope Expert, Jim Doty
It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of our beloved expert and dear friend Dr. Jim Doty. Jim was an incredible neurosurgeon and entrepreneur, and dedicated his life to supporting others. As founder of Stanford’s Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE), he led groundbreaking work showing that compassion isn’t just a feeling—it’s measurable, trainable, and essential for well-being.
He was generous with his time and energy, and his book Into the Magic Shop led me to him and getting him involved in Hope. Hi story was beyond inspiring; Jim is a living example of what the power of Hope can do for a person. He was constantly sharing and encouraging us to keep going, sending images, quotes, and messages pushing us to do the good work in the world.
We love Jim, and will miss him dearly, yet will carry him forward in our work. Please keep his family in your prayers.
Keep Shining Hope,
Kathryn
Kathryn Goetzke, MBA
CEO & Chief Hope Officer, The Shine Hope Company
Author of The Biggest Little Book About Hope
Founder of International Foundation for Research and Education on Hope (iFred)
Creator of Hopeful Cities, and Hopeful Minds
Creator of Hopeful Mindsets Overview, Hopeful Mindsets in the Workplace Overview, and Hopeful Mindsets on the College Campus Course
Podcast host of The Hope Matrix
Chief Mood Officer, The Mood Factory (taking a break, for hope!)
