In this deeply moving episode of The Inspired Culture (aired 11-23-25), host Eric Hymes sits down with Jose Pereira, former CEO of CITGO Petroleum and one of the CITGO Six, to explore resilience, faith, and leadership forged through unimaginable adversity.

After surviving 1,775 days as an international hostage, Jose shares how trauma can shatter identity—and how purpose, spiritual surrender, and disciplined routines can rebuild it. Drawing insight from his captivity, biblical principles, and the teachings of Viktor Frankl, this episode reveals why hope is not weakness, but a powerful leadership strategy.

This conversation speaks directly to leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone navigating loss, burnout, or life-altering transitions. It’s a reminder that even when freedom is stripped away, influence begins within—and purpose can always be rediscovered.

In this powerful episode of The Inspired Culture, host Eric Himes sits down with Risha Grant, renowned diversity and inclusion expert, to explore what it really takes to create a culture of authenticity, belonging, and human connection in today’s workplace.

Risha shares candid insights about overcoming fear, unlearning biases, and leading with empathy. Together, they discuss why diversity isn’t just about representation—it’s about creating environments where everyone feels safe to show up as themselves.

From breaking old habits to building trust through vulnerability, this episode reveals how authenticity transforms organizations from the inside out. If you’re a leader, HR professional, or changemaker seeking to elevate your workplace culture, this conversation will inspire you to take action.

Through her company and her acclaimed book Be Better Than Your BS — featured in Forbes, Vogue, Fast Company, and Harvard Business Review — Risha has helped organizations like Google, Procter & Gamble, YouTube, and T-Mobile redefine inclusion from the inside out.