In this episode of The Circle of Hope, I sit down with my long-time friend and colleague, Rahim Saafir, to explore two decades of friendship, growth, and the power of authentic relationships. We reminisce about our journey at the Hyatt Regency DFW, where Rahim began working in security after leaving government work and transitioned into Human Resources—thanks, in part, to his unstoppable drive and the support of key mentors and connectors. Rahim shares how a chance encounter at a Taco Bueno drive-thru opened doors to the hospitality industry and ultimately to a fulfilling career as Director of Human Resources.

But this episode isn’t just about career moves. It’s a heartfelt exploration of what it means to give freely, the challenges of family and friendship, and the importance of making clear, actionable requests for support. Rahim opens up about receiving difficult health news, how he leaned on connections outside of family, and why he believes in paying kindness forward—always “plus one.” If you’ve ever struggled with how to create genuine bonds or wondered why giving matters, you’ll find wisdom, warmth, and practical takeaways in our conversation.

Watch This If:

• You’re looking to deepen your relationships and create a circle of genuine connections
• You want inspiration for overcoming career roadblocks or changing industries
• You struggle with asking for support from friends or family
• You’re seeking motivation to help others and “pay it forward”
• You value transparency and authenticity in both personal and professional circles

Episode Highlights:

• [00:01:07] Rahim shares the story of starting at Hyatt in security and the hurdles he faced transitioning into HR
• [00:04:06] The heart behind Rahim’s “gate opener” mentality: why he’s committed to lifting others up
• [00:07:18] From flipping tacos to hospitality: the chance encounter that changed Rahim’s career direction
• [00:13:31] What Rahim looks for when connecting people to opportunities—and how Valerie does the same
• [00:21:20] Rahim’s candid advice to his children (and listeners): how to choose and define true friendships
• [00:24:22] Navigating tough times: Rahim opens up about his cancer diagnosis and which connections supported him most
• [00:45:46] Valerie and Rahim discuss the importance of making explicit requests to get your needs met

Quotes to Remember:

• “In order to receive a blessing... you’ve got to give one, if not more.” —Rahim Saafir
• “Once you establish a genuine connection with someone, it’s there... even if you only talk two or three times a year.” —Rahim Saafir
• “Be very careful who you have in your circle and call friend... I have a lot of associates, but I have very few friends.” —Rahim Saafir
• “The easiest way to get that need met is to make a request... not just holding them to an invisible standard or an unspoken expectation.” —Valerie Hope

What You’ll Learn:

• How a small act of kindness or connection can jumpstart an unexpected career path
• The importance of being “a gate opener”—using your influence to help others
• The value of transparency and clear requests in deepening relationships
• Why giving to others often leads to personal fulfillment and growth
• How to discern genuine relationships and teach others (especially your children) to do the same
• Tips for maintaining meaningful connections across time and distance
• The difference between asking for help from family vs. mentors or friends

Let’s Stay Connected:

Guest: Rahim Saafir

• LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/rahimsaafir

Host: Valerie Hope

• Website:https://www.valeriehope.com
• Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/valeriehope/
• LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriehope/
• Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ValerieVHope
• Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@ConnecttoJoy

Production Support: Lucy Hope - Podcast Editing, Copy, and Publishing.

#CircleOfHope #RelationshipBuilding #PayItForward #AuthenticConnections #CareerGrowth