In this episode of The CARTI Hopecast, host Adam Head welcomes Steve Straessle, head of Catholic High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, and a respected columnist and community leader. Known for his unwavering presence and belief in the potential of others, Steve reflects on the role of mentorship, loyalty, and living a life of intentional service.

From his unexpected start in education to decades of shaping young men through faith, discipline, and humor, Steve shares stories that reveal the impact of showing up—in classrooms, in grief, in growth. One such story centers on a student named Jorge and the powerful ripple effects of community, dignity, and honor in the face of tragedy.

This episode explores how small acts of consistency, presence, and hope can redefine a life.

Takeaways:

• Steve Straessle emphasizes the profound impact of unwavering commitment to one's community and students, highlighting how this shapes their lives positively.
• In moments of adversity, it is essential to recognize the inherent value within individuals, which empowers them to rise above challenges.
• The journey of education transcends mere academics; it is fundamentally about instilling life lessons such as perseverance, responsibility, and the importance of empathy.
• Presence in the lives of students is critical; it fosters trust and credibility, enabling educators to support them during their most difficult times.
• The legacy of those we teach is shaped by their experiences and the values they internalize, which can have a transformative effect on their future actions.
• Living intentionally requires choosing the tools of compassion and understanding, as opposed to the divisive tools of anger and hatred that can lead to one's downfall.

Founded in 1976, CARTI delivers leading-edge cancer care in a compassionate, patient-centered environment. Our mission is to make trusted cancer care accessible for every patient we serve through compassion, innovation, and purpose.

The CARTI Hopecast shares authentic, meaningful stories that focus on human experiences. Every day, we see patients and families navigating unimaginable hardships, sometimes feeling alone in their journey. Through The Hopecast, listeners hear stories of resilience and transformation, fostering a sense of connection and hope.