Interview with the Talented and Cheerful Host, Alika Hope

Alika Hope

Based on the themes of joy, hope, and self-efficacy, the “Alika Hope and Change” podcast encourages a positive and powerful mindset. This podcast is the one-stop destination for everyone seeking motivating and uplifting podcasts. The “Alika Hope and Change” podcast is hosted by the talented sister-brother duo- Alika Hope and Emille Bryant (the “Change”). Both the hosts leave no stone unturned in making the podcast fun and lively yet insightful.

The topics that Alika Hope and Emille Bryant chose for each episode are unique and interesting. Various guests are invited to different episodes who share their wisdom with the listeners and help them gain a better perspective on varied topics. There are 30 episodes in all to the “Alika Hope and Change” podcast to date, with the latest episode being released on February 25, 2024.

 

Interviewer: Tell our readers a little about yourself?

Alika Hope: I love to talk. And I love to perform. So podcasting has been an absolute joy! Strangers have always asked me for advice, on the subway and even in the ladies room at Madison Square Garden…So I guess I’m approachable… As far as my credentials, I have a BA from the University of Notre Dame, an M.A. from Columbia University, a certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University, and I’m also a certified trauma professional. On the performing side, I have won a Gold Global Music Award, a Mom’s Choice Award, and a Creative Child Magazine Award. I was also Ms. New England America 2019, and have performed all over the U.S. I think the best way to describe me is a nerdy lifelong learner who loves pretty clothes and sparkly jewelry! But my proudest accomplishment is definitely being a mom to my kids. They bring me hope every day.

 

Interviewer: How did you come up with the concept of the “Alika Hope and Change” podcast?

Alika Hope: The idea hit me in late 2019. I was driving in the backwoods of NY state, on the phone with Emille, brainstorming new projects. We settled on a podcast, and during my hours-long drive, we decided on the name “Alika Hope and Change”. Then suddenly I was stuck at home because of the Covid pandemic, and I went from a summer full of performances to 22 cancelled gigs, lost income, and lost connections to other humans. So I decided to throw myself into the production of the podcast, and Emille and Jaeme (their engineer) were onboard 100%. Every week I research topics, jokes, and potential guests, and 30 episodes later here we are! Creating this podcast kept me going in 2024.

 

Interviewer: How do you keep yourself motivated?

Alika Hope: Chocolate and coffee! (Alika laughs). But beyond that, I’m definitely motivated by music. If I connect with a song, whether it be rap or opera, heavy metal or disco, I get motivated. I also get motivated by my passion for making the world a hopeful place for my children and the inner-child of our listeners.

 

Interviewer: What kind of relationship do you share with your brother and co-host, Emille Bryant?

Alika Hope: Goofy, nerdy, loud, loving, joyful, supportive, and strong. Emille was 5 years old when I was born, and for as long as I can remember he’s been there, a big part of my life, both literally (he’s 6’4) and figuratively. I remember making him homemade chocolate chip cookies and overnighting them to him at the Air Force Academy, and I remember him flying cross country for my graduation from the University of Notre Dame. It’s always been a reciprocal and supportive relationship. And I think that’s why the podcast flows so well.

 

Interviewer: What message would you like to give to our readers out there?

Alika Hope: Even in times of global turmoil and challenges, hope is always there. And hope gives us the confidence to create change.