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The Science of Hope: How Veterans Can Build Resilience and Purpose

Season #1

Episode Title: The Science of Hope: How Veterans Can Build Resilience and Purpose

Guest: Dr. Evie Muilenburg Trevino – Quantitative Psychologist, Hope Researcher, and Founder of HopeWired

Host: Scott Schimmel – Co-founder, Vector Accelerator

Episode Overview

In this episode of the Vector Accelerator Podcast, we dive deep into the science of hope with Dr. Evie Trevino. A leading quantitative psychologist and expert in hope theory, Dr. Trevino unpacks how hope is not just wishful thinking but a measurable and actionable framework that directly impacts well-being, resilience, and life satisfaction.

For transitioning veterans, hope is often tested through career uncertainties, identity shifts, and loss of community. Dr. Trevino explains why hope plays a critical role in successful transitions and how the Vector Accelerator program has been scientifically proven to increase veterans' sense of purpose, relationships, and overall hopefulness for the future.

Key Topics & Takeaways

✅ What is Hope? – Hope is the belief that the future is bright and that you have the power to make it happen. It requires both pathways (mental strategies) and willpower (motivation and energy) to overcome obstacles.

✅ The Science Behind Hope & Well-Being – Hope is one of the strongest predictors of resilience, mental well-being, and success. It can be measured and improved through intentional practice.

✅ Why Veterans Struggle with Hope During Transition – Repeated setbacks in job searching, loss of identity, and lack of community support can deplete hope, making it difficult to stay motivated.

✅ How Vector Accelerator Helps Veterans Rebuild Hope – Dr. Trevino’s research shows that 72% of veterans who complete the Vector Accelerator program experience an increase in hope, along with gains in sense of purpose, relationships, and resilience​.

✅ Practical Hope-Building Strategies:

  • Positive Self-Talk – High-hope individuals reframe challenges and setbacks with optimism.
  • The Power of Community – Hope thrives in connection with others; Vector Accelerator provides structured relationships and mentorship.
  • The 50 Cups of Coffee Approach – Expanding your professional network through intentional conversations opens doors to new pathways.

✅ How Organizations Can Measure Their Impact – Dr. Trevino explains how nonprofits and veteran service organizations can use data-driven approaches to evaluate and improve their programs.

Resources & Links

📌 Vector Accelerator Program: www.vectoraccelerator.org
📌 Take the Hope Score Assessment: www.hopewired.com
📌 Connect with Dr. Evie Trevino: HopeWired.com

🔔 Subscribe & Follow: Don’t miss future episodes! Subscribe to the Vector Accelerator Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.

Timestamps

[00:00] Welcome & Introduction to Dr. Evie Trevino
[01:12] What is Hope and Why is it a Science?
[02:26] How Trauma and Transition Deplete Hope in Veterans
[05:58] Case Study: Job Search Rejection and Its Impact on Hope
[07:10] The Role of Community & Mentorship in Rebuilding Hope
[09:25] How Vector Accelerator Measures & Increases Hope
[12:10] The Data-Driven Results of Vector Accelerator’s Impact
[14:32] Practical Steps to Cultivate a Hope Mindset
[18:46] The Role of Positive Self-Talk in Resilience
[22:02] How to Connect with Dr. Trevino & Measure Impact