In this heartfelt and laughter-filled episode of The Circle of Hope, I reconnect with my brilliant, soulful, and multifaceted friend, AJ Thomas. Our journey together—spanning unexpected musical moments, executive coaching at Berkeley, and transformative collaborations at Google X—sets the stage for a candid conversation about the art of building deep, enduring connections both personally and professionally. AJ shares her inspiring career arc: venturing from corporate leadership at Google and Alphabet to founding her own VC firm, Good Trouble Ventures, where she now pioneers the fusion of creativity, technology, and impact.

We dive deep into what it really takes to create relationships that transcend time and space—the magic that allows you to pick up with someone right where you left off. AJ gives us a peek into her journey, the influence of her grandfather, her “why not me?” moments, and how belonging starts from within. Together, we explore the challenges and opportunities of bridging humanity and technology, the importance of authentic curiosity, and the power of being your best (and truest) self in every room you enter. It’s a rich, soulful, and joy-infused conversation you won’t want to miss!

Watch This If:

• You’re curious about making and sustaining deep personal or professional relationships
• You want to know how to switch—and thrive—in radically different careers
• You’re seeking inspiration about blending creativity and business
• You wonder how to stay grounded as technology transforms our lives
• You want tactical tips on creating authentic, resilient connections
• You need a reminder of the power (and importance) of belonging

Episode Highlights:

• [00:01:15] – The unforgettable moment AJ serenaded our group with “Over the Rainbow” and how music ignites connection
• [00:04:57] – AJ and I reflect on the roots of our friendship and what makes “soul surfing” conversations so special
• [00:10:13] – The secret sauce of enduring friendships: mutual curiosity and presence
• [00:15:29] – How AJ leapt from Google X into venture capital, guided by curiosity and creativity
• [00:30:37] – Being the “Selma Bridge”: AJ’s vision for connecting creatives and technologists
• [00:36:03] – The lessons AJ’s grandfather and children instilled—about competition, courage, and staying true
• [00:45:20] – Navigating connection in the age of AI: why being a great human matters more than ever

Quotes to Remember:

• “You must first belong to you so that whatever room you walk into, you’re already present.” – AJ Thomas
• “Every job I’ve had, I’ve never done before. That’s just my pioneering spirit.” – AJ Thomas
• “Mutual curiosity is the basis of deep connection, in any relationship.” – Valerie Hope
• “We are one decision or connection away from a radically different life.” – AJ Thomas

What You’ll Learn:

• How to foster lasting connections that survive distance and time
• The role of mutual curiosity in deep personal and professional relationships
• Strategies for reinventing your career—even when it means starting from scratch
• The importance of bringing your full, creative self into every space
• How to blend business, creativity, and service to make real impact
• Why belonging is foundational—and starts with belonging to yourself
• Navigating relationships and leadership in a rapidly evolving, tech-driven world

Contact Information:

Guest: AJ Thomas

• Website: https://www.thetroublemakerlab.com
• Website: https://www.helloajthomas.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helloajthomas/?hl=en
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chaospilot

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.

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