The Hope Table

In this episode of The Hope Table, host Erin Brinkersits down with Dr. Jeffrey Hsu, vascular surgeon with Kaiser Permanente, and his patient Phil Crawford, a survivor of a ruptured aortic aneurysm—an event that is often fatal. Dr. Hsu explains vascular health in down-to-earth “plumbing” terms, breaks down what aneurysms are, who’s at risk (especially older male smokers), and why screening and early detection matter. Phil then shares his powerful, emotional story: a sudden onset of excruciating abdominal pain, an emergency 911 call, waking up weeks later from a medically induced coma with 111 staples and a new understanding of his own mortality. He talks about quitting tobacco, facing esophageal cancer a year later, and how family, faith, and sheer determination carried him through. Erin closes by reflecting on post-traumatic growth, advances in vascular medicine, and practical steps listeners can take right now to protect their own vascular health and truly “seize the day.” Send us comments and thoughts.

In this episode of The Hope Table, Erin Brinker sits down with designer and storyteller Teresa Bruno, founder of Jordan Alexander Jewelry and host of the Soul Talks podcast. Teresa shares how her jewelry line skyrocketed from a personal creative outlet to adorning Michelle Obama, then collapsed due to fraud—followed by the devastating loss of her husband to suicide early in the COVID-19 pandemic. She and Erin talk candidly about grief, shame, mental health, faith, and the power of community and self‑compassion. Out of this “impossible winter,” Teresa found the courage to begin again through her podcast and her forthcoming book, offering listeners practical hope for living alongside sorrow without being defined by it. Send us comments and thoughts.

In this episode, host Erin Brinker welcomes Dr. Timothy Jenkins, a board-certified gastroenterologist, for an in-depth discussion on gut health and its far-reaching impact on overall wellness. Dr. Jenkins explains the anatomy and function of the gastrointestinal system, the crucial role of the gut microbiome, and the gut’s influence on immunity, weight, cravings, and even mental health. The episode covers the effects of antibiotics, the importance of fiber, probiotics, and lifestyle habits such as diet, stress management, sleep, and exercise. Dr. Jenkins also highlights warning signs of gastrointestinal issues and offers practical advice for New Year's resolutions focused on improving gut health. The conversation concludes with a look toward the future of gut health research and resources for accessing GI care. Send us comments and thoughts.

In this episode of The Hope Table, Erin Brinker welcomes trailblazer Manal Iskander, founder of PC Tronics. Manal shares her inspiring journey from Egypt to Austria to the United States, rising as a leader in IT and innovation. The conversation explores how Manal leveraged global perspectives, embraced the tech revolution, and now helps businesses and nonprofits harness AI for growth and efficiency. She discusses the vital role of women’s voices in shaping the future of technology, the importance of digital readiness, and how AI can empower organizations of all sizes. The episode closes with a call to support children’s literacy and community engagement. Send us comments and thoughts.

Feeling overwhelmed by holiday stress? 🎄 Dr. Ashley Zucker shares tips for teens & families on managing pressure, emotions, and social media. Tune in for supportive advice and real talk on "The Hope Table"! #MentalHealth #Holidays #Podcast Send us comments and thoughts.

In this episode of the Making Hope Happen Radio Show, Erin Brinker interviews Dr. Alex McDonald and Dr. Lourdes Minaya, both physicians with Kaiser Permanente in San Bernardino County. They share their expertise on the importance of getting vaccinated against the flu, especially early in the flu season. The conversation addresses common misconceptions about flu vaccines, the roles doctors play in encouraging vaccination, and why flu shots matter for all age groups—including families, children, athletes, and vulnerable populations. Listeners learn about the various types of flu vaccines available (including nasal spray options), guidance for those with allergies or autoimmune conditions, and how Kaiser Permanente reaches homebound or high-risk patients. The doctors emphasize empathy in addressing vaccine hesitancy and encourage everyone to make informed, timely decisions based on accurate information and trusted medical advice. Send us comments and thoughts.

In this episode of the Making Hope Happen Radio Show, host Erin Brinker welcomes Dr. Fred Moss, a board-certified psychiatrist known for his unconventional approach to mental health. Dr. Moss shares his journey from traditional psychiatry to advocating for holistic healing, emphasizing the transformative power of genuine human connection over medication and diagnosis. The conversation explores the limitations of psychiatric labels, the societal factors contributing to mental distress, and the importance of practices like gratitude, meditation, service, and creativity for optimal well-being. Dr. Moss also discusses the role of trauma, the epidemic of loneliness, and how aligning with one’s authentic self can lead to profound healing. Listeners are encouraged to rethink mental health, embrace connection, and discover practical steps for personal growth and resilience. Send us comments and thoughts.

In this episode of the Making Hope Happen Radio Show, host Erin Brinker interviews Dr. Neha Vaghasia, a pediatric oncologist and pediatrician. They discuss Dr. Vaghasia’s inspiring journey into medicine, the evolving landscape of pediatric health—including mental health, the impact of social media, and vaccine hesitancy—and the importance of preventative care and community support. The conversation also offers practical advice for parents, explores health equity, and reflects on lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, all while highlighting the resilience of children and families. Send us comments and thoughts.

In this encore episode of the Making Hope Happen Radio Show from 2022, host Erin Brinker sits down with Gloria Macias Harrison, renowned educator, community leader, and former president of Crafton Hills College. Gloria shares her remarkable story of growing up in San Bernardino, her pioneering work in education and community journalism, and her insights on language, culture, and leadership. The conversation explores the value of bilingual education, the importance of resilience, and the power of community engagement. This episode is a celebration of perseverance, community, and the transformative impact of hope. Send us comments and thoughts.

Join host Erin Brinker and publishing expert Conni Francini as they dive deep into the evolving world of book publishing. Discover the secrets of successful authorship, learn about the challenges writers face, and explore innovative publishing strategies. From children's books to thought leadership titles, this engaging conversation reveals how authors can transform their ideas into compelling stories that resonate with readers. Whether you're an aspiring writer or a book lover, this episode offers fascinating insights into the art and business of publishing. Send us comments and thoughts.

In this powerful episode of the Making Hope Happen radio show, Dr. Donita Grissom shares her remarkable journey from legal assistant to passionate educator and hope researcher. After experiencing profound personal tragedy, including the sudden loss of her husband while conducting doctoral research in Haiti, Grissom discovered the transformative power of hope. She discusses her groundbreaking work on hope theory, focusing on how educators can rebuild their passion and help students overcome challenges. Through her book "High Five to Thrive" and her work with Best Questers, Grissom provides practical strategies for teachers to reconnect with their purpose, manage burnout, and create supportive learning environments. Her insights reveal hope as a cognitive skill that can be learned, practiced, and used to drive personal and professional growth, offering a beacon of inspiration for educators and students alike. Send us comments and thoughts.

Why is walking one of the most powerful prescriptions in medicine? Dr. Robert Sallis, team physician for the LA Clippers and clinical professor at Kaiser Permanente, joins Erin Brinker to break down what men really need to know about exercise, sleep, diet, diabetes prevention, and aging well. From fitness wearables to fighting chronic disease, Dr. Sallis shares realistic, research-backed insights on how men can take control of their health at any age—no CrossFit required. 🎧 Listen now and learn how a walk around the block (or the mall!) could save your life. Send us comments and thoughts.

Join us for a deep dive into America’s founding with two distinguished experts: Jeff Lowe: A master teacher with accolades from the James Madison Memorial Foundation where he is a Senior Fellow, the American Revolution Institute, and the George Washington Teachers Institute. His extensive knowledge and dedication to teaching the nation’s early history have earned him recognition. Tobin Brinker: A seasoned history teacher with a decade of experience in local elected office. Brinker brings a unique perspective, blending historical insight with practical political experience, offering a nuanced understanding of America’s founding principles and their lasting impact. Together, Lowe and Brinker will engage in a thought-provoking discussion that explores the complexities of America’s origins, the intentions of the Founding Fathers, and how their vision continues to shape the nation today. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the roots of American democracy, this conversation promises to be both enlightening and inspiring. Send us comments and thoughts.

In this episode, Erin Brinker sits down with Cynthia Rivard, an accomplished executive leader and visionary thinker, to explore the transformative power of heart-centered communication and egoless leadership. Cynthia shares her philosophy that true societal change begins with compassion-driven decision-making—where leadership is rooted in service, not ego. As the author of the upcoming books A New Breed of Leader and Hope for a New Era, Cynthia offers insight into how a new leadership paradigm can bring about peace, prosperity, and environmental healing. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that challenges the status quo and invites us all to lead with heart. Send us comments and thoughts.

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, Erin sits down with Dr. Ashley Zucker, a board-certified psychiatrist with Kaiser Permanente, to explore the importance of mental health care, the stigma that still surrounds it, and what we can all do to support our own well-being. Together, they discuss practical tips for managing stress, recognizing signs of mental health challenges, and fostering a culture of openness and compassion in our families, schools, and communities. This is a must-listen episode for anyone who believes mental health matters—which should be all of us. Send us comments and thoughts.

Greg Bradbard, CEO of the IEHP Foundation, joins Erin to discuss building healthier communities through advocacy, nonprofit leadership, and place-based health initiatives like the Blue Zones Project. A powerful look at health equity, systems change, and the human side of healthcare. Send us comments and thoughts.

Get ready for an empowering conversation! Erin is joined by Dr. Marisol Flores, a board-certified OB/GYN from Kaiser Permanente in San Bernardino County. Together, they dive into how to plan, what to expect, and how to thrive during one of life’s biggest transitions, menopause. Whether you’re just starting to think ahead or already navigating the journey, Dr. Flores shares expert tips, heartfelt advice, and practical strategies to help you embrace this chapter with confidence. Send us comments and thoughts.

What if the mental health system focused on thriving instead of just surviving? In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Erin welcomes Dustin Dean and Mick Myers, co-founders of Mind Health Concierge. With decades of experience spanning elite medical care, fitness innovation, and psychiatric practice, Dustin and Mick share how their personal journeys—and frustrations with the limitations of traditional care—led them to reimagine what mental wellness can be. They discuss the roots of resilience, the cost of ignoring inner pain, and how high-achieving individuals often mask deep struggles. Learn how their concierge model empowers clients to walk a path of healing, growth, and identity restoration—through coaching, compassionate connection, and truly personalized care. Whether you’re an entrepreneur at the top of your game or someone seeking hope and clarity, this episode is a must-listen. Send us comments and thoughts.

Fund development connects people with their purpose. Erin is joined by Jack Alotto, MA, CFRE, a Certified Fundraising Executive and trainer. Jack is a seasoned fundraising professional with a rich background in healthcare, social services, and the arts. Over his career, he has held leadership roles including executive director, development director, and major gifts and legacy giving manager. Jack is deeply involved in advancing the fundraising profession—he served on the board of AFP Golden Gate and taught their CFRE Review class, recently stepping into the role of CFRE California Ambassador. As a longtime trainer with the Sanford Institute of Philanthropy, Jack has taught key modules in Fundraising Basics, Major Gifts, Planned Giving, and Cause Selling. He has also moderated and served on panels covering topics like donor loyalty, ethics in fundraising, and strategies for building strong fundraising programs. Jack brings both deep expertise and a passion for mentoring the next generation of fundraisers. Send us comments and thoughts.

In this episode, Erin welcomes Dr. Pamela Buchanan — board-certified physician, powerful storyteller, and passionate advocate for healing and human connection. Drawing from her own journey and the stories of others, Dr. Buchanan shares eye-opening insights into the emotional toll the COVID-19 pandemic has taken on physicians and healthcare providers — and what recovery looks like on the other side. As an ambassador for the Lorna Breen Foundation and the author of Emotional Flatline, Dr. Buchanan offers a candid, compassionate conversation about burnout, resilience, and the path back to purpose. She also discusses her contribution to the acclaimed anthology Healing in Color, amplifying voices of healing and hope in communities of color. This is a must-listen for anyone curious about the human side of medicine — and how we can better support those who care for us. Send us comments and thoughts.