She didn't have to say "yes" to my request of coming on the pod. She does not need or want the recognition. I believe as a personal favor and to highlight the efforts of the United Way, she gave me her time and voice. Through this interview, you get a clearer picture of the position Hope plays in our community. Literally and figuratively.

Listen as this Missouri-grown Midwesterner talks about the surprising scope of the Fighting Illini community, the change in trajectory the Illini programs have seen since they came to town, being a college athlete then vs. college athletes now, raising little ones, talking Illinois sports, philanthropy, teamwork in a marriage, from the corporate world to "SAHM," befriending new Illini wives and misconceptions. Hope is about as down-to-earth as one gets, someone you want to be friends with. Grateful for the easy conversation and the opportunity to get to know her better.

Emily Harrington, here! Mom, wife, retired communications liaison and host of the HyperLocal(s) Podcast. Each week I bring you a pod where townies and transplants share their tales of tears and triumphs, losses and wins. In an effort to provide a way for those that don’t want a public podcast, but still have a story to tell friends and family, I’ve created, In Retrospect: A HyperLocal(s) Project, a private podcast. Visit hyperlocalscu.com/in-retrospect

Thank you so much for listening! However your podcast host of choice allows, please positively: rate, review, comment and give all the stars! Don’t forget to follow, subscribe, share and ring that notification bell so you know when the next episode drops!

Also, search and follow hyperlocalscu on all social media. If I forgot anything or you need me, visit my website at HyperLocalsCU.com. Byee.