How to Build 'Hard Hope'

How to Build 'Hard Hope'

From IAF Continued Conversations by FNF - International Academy for Leadership (IAF)

October 7, 2025 · 1h 7m · Episode 39

About this episode

The episode explores the concept of 'hard hope' in politics and leadership, emphasizing resilience, empathy, and actionable strategies for leaders.

What does it mean to practice “hard hope” in politics and leadership today? In this episode of IAF Continued Conversations, hosts Marike Groenewald and Clinton du Preez from Anew - a leadership and organisational development agency - talk with Lisa Witter, CEO of the Better Politics Foundation and co-founder of Apolitical. Lisa shares her ideas on “hard hope”, a mindset that faces reality, embraces difficulty, and chooses action anyway. Together they explore how leaders can stay resilient in times of fatigue and crisis, why empathy and curiosity are crucial political skills, and what it means to build “better politics” through facilitative leadership. From neuroscience to nature, from women in politics to the role of AI in leadership, Lisa connects practical tools with deep purpose. A conversation for anyone striving to lead with integrity, courage, and a sense of possibility — even when things feel hard.

People in this episode

Hosts: Marike Groenewald, Clinton du Preez

Guest: Lisa Witter

Topics covered

  • hard hope
  • politics
  • leadership
  • resilience
  • empathy
  • curiosity
  • facilitative leadership

Keywords

  • hard hope
  • politics
  • leadership
  • resilience
  • empathy
  • curiosity
  • AI in leadership
  • women in politics

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Better Politics Foundation, Apolitical, Anew

More episodes of IAF Continued Conversations

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the IAF Continued Conversations podcast page.