An Airline Pilot’s Journey Through Depression, Connection, and Healing | Ep. 17 COH | Valerie Hope

In this heartfelt episode of Circle of Hope, I’m joined by Jérôme Vaillancourt, from Montreal, Canada, for an inspiring and vulnerable conversation about connection, coherence, and healing. Jérôme and I reminisce on how our friendship sparked in the most unlikely of places—a randomly assigned, two-minute breakout room during a HeartMath Institute course at the height of the pandemic. What began as a fleeting encounter blossomed into a monthly circle of support that’s provided healing, growth, and safety for both of us (and others in our group) through job changes, personal upheavals, and the intricacies of navigating life’s challenges.We talk candidly about Jérôme’s journey from being a logic-driven, technically-focused airline pilot—through a life-altering depression—to someone who leads with intention, openness, and heart. He shares how our group supported him during his darkest moments, the unique safety we found together, and how energetic, heart-based connections can be just as vital as frequent communication. We discuss everything from the science of the heart to the magic of intuition, navigating relationships with new intention, and why “coherence” isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a lived experience that can transform even the most logic-driven environments.Watch This If:You’re craving deeper, more meaningful connections in your life or work.You’ve ever felt isolated and wondered how to rebuild or nurture your support circle.You’re curious about heart-based science, emotional coherence, or the HeartMath Institute.You want practical tips for fostering psychological safety and vulnerability in groups.You’re navigating major life transitions, such as career changes or mental health challenges.You believe—or want to believe—that even brief encounters can change your life.Quotes to Remember:“We don’t have walls in that group. We’re just standing on hard ground.” —Jérôme Vaillancourt“Relationships are actually not always just built in conversation and dialogue…but also in the intention that we hold about the people that we’re in relationship with.” —Valerie Hope“Take care of yourself and you take care of your relationships. Like really.” —Jérôme Vaillancourt“The courage that we have in sharing what’s going on with us…no matter where we are on the spectrum or how intense it is…the intention is always that it be a healing conversation.” —Valerie HopeWhat You’ll Learn:How even brief, unexpected connections can blossom into powerful support circles.The science and practice of “coherence” and its impact on both individuals and groups.Why psychological safety and vulnerability are foundational for meaningful connection.Ways to nurture relationships energetically—even if you’re not in constant contact.How intention and heart-based practices can reshape your approach to work, life, and healing from major challenges.Practical ideas for reaching out, showing up, and anchoring a sense of community, even when others fade away or circumstances change.The subtle—but powerful—ways you can make a positive impact on everyone around you, seen and unseen.Contact Information:Guest: Jérôme VaillancourtWebsite: https://ucoaching.art/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j%C3%A9r%C3%B4me-vaillancourt-conf%C3%A9rencier-pilote-coh%C3%A9rence-physiologique?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_appHost: Valerie HopeWebsite:https://www.valeriehope.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/valeriehope/LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeriehope/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ValerieVHopeYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/@ConnecttoJoyProduction Support: Lucy Hope - Podcast Editing, Copy, and Publishing.#CircleOfHope #HeartMath #IntentionalConnections #HealingThroughCommunity #EmotionalCoherence

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