Meet Kevin Toliver-lyons | Founder: Susan D. Lyons Foundation for Hope

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kevin Toliver-lyons and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kevin, maybe we can start at the very start – the idea – how did you come up with the idea for your business?
How did you come up with the idea for your business?

The idea for the Susan D. Lyons Foundation for Hope (SDLF4H) was deeply personal. In 2014, just twelve days after her 67th birthday, my mother, Susan D. Lyons, took her own life. Coping with that loss was a transformative experience that inspired me to create a space where others could process their grief and find healing. Initially, the foundation focused on mental health support, offering free art therapy to help individuals deal with the pain of losing loved ones to suicide.

However, the pandemic marked a turning point for both the foundation and myself. As the world faced unprecedented challenges, I recognized that our country was at a crossroads. As a parent, I felt a growing responsibility to engage more deeply in issues that affect families, communities, and the nation as a whole. This led me to pivot the foundation’s focus and launch The American Spirit Podcast, which debuts in January. The podcast highlights the work and policies of President Trump while exploring the values of faith, freedom, and patriotism that define our nation’s core.

This evolution from mental health advocacy to political engagement reflects my belief in the importance of preserving the ideals that make America great. Both endeavors are driven by the same mission: to inspire hope, foster resilience, and contribute meaningfully to the lives of others.

What should our readers know about your business?
My business journey has been anything but traditional, and I firmly believe it’s been guided by Jesus every step of the way. Two months ago, I was in a wheelchair and thought I had Multiple Sclerosis. I was later diagnosed with Chiari malformation, a congenital brain condition where my brain is sliding into my spinal canal. It was a transformative moment in my life. Instead of despair, I found renewed faith and purpose. Along with that, I also discovered a new passion—golf. The sport has become a metaphor for life: it requires patience, focus, and persistence, all of which have helped me move forward with a sense of hope and determination.

The Susan D. Lyons Foundation for Hope began as a deeply personal mission to provide support and healing for those who, like me, have faced the loss of a loved one to suicide. After my mother’s passing, I wanted to create a space for others to process their pain and find healing, which initially took the form of free art therapy programs. However, the pandemic brought significant challenges and a shift in focus. I felt called to pivot into addressing broader issues impacting our communities and nation, which is how The American Spirit Podcast was born.

What sets our foundation and podcast apart is our commitment to faith, freedom, and the values that define the American Spirit. I’m most proud of our ability to inspire and uplift others through both personal healing and a larger national dialogue. It hasn’t been an easy path. The challenges of grief, health struggles, and starting something new were daunting. But I learned to lean on my faith, my family, and the lessons from the game of golf—taking one shot at a time, no matter how tough the course.

The world should know that our mission is rooted in resilience, love, and a belief in the power of community and faith to overcome any obstacle. Whether through the foundation or the podcast, my goal is to inspire others to embrace their own challenges and find strength in their stories, just as I have.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting South Florida for a week, I’d make sure they experienced the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and community that makes this area so special. Here’s how I’d plan the trip:

Day 1: Golf and Relaxation
We’d kick things off with a round of golf at one of South Florida’s incredible courses, like Orangebrook Golf & Country Club or Jacaranda Golf Club. Afterward, we’d relax and grab lunch at the clubhouse, enjoying the warm Florida sunshine.

Day 2: Exploring the Everglades
No trip to South Florida is complete without seeing the natural beauty of the Everglades. We’d take an airboat tour to spot wildlife like alligators and birds while immersing ourselves in Florida’s unique ecosystem. Later, we’d stop by a local seafood spot to enjoy fresh, local dishes.

Day 3: Faith and Community
On Sunday, I’d take them to History Makers Church. The church is an amazing place to connect with others, be inspired, and enjoy uplifting worship. Afterward, we’d grab brunch at a nearby café and spend the afternoon exploring downtown Hollywood, checking out the art murals and local shops.

Day 4: Hollywood Beach Boardwalk
We’d spend a day soaking up the sun at Hollywood Beach. The boardwalk has great restaurants, casual bars, and live music in the evenings. I’d recommend Taco Beach Shack for amazing tacos and drinks.

Day 5: Golf and More Golf
For another golf day, we’d hit up a different course like Plantation Preserve Golf Course or Davie Golf Club. Each course offers a unique challenge and stunning views. Dinner would be at one of South Florida’s steakhouses, like J. Alexander’s.

Day 6: Miami Excursion
We’d take a day trip to Miami to experience its vibrant energy. A visit to Wynwood Walls, lunch in Little Havana, and a stroll through Brickell or South Beach would make for a packed day. We’d cap it off with dinner at a waterfront restaurant like Rusty Pelican.

Day 7: Rest and Reflection
To end the week, we’d enjoy a quiet morning, perhaps practicing putting in my backyard or taking a walk through a peaceful park. Then, we’d enjoy a farewell meal at a local favorite spot, reflecting on the memories made during the visit.

South Florida has so much to offer, from world-class golf courses to breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant communities. It’s a place where you can find inspiration, connection, and relaxation all in one trip.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The person I want to dedicate my shoutout to is my wife, Virginia Toliver-Lyons. Her unwavering support, love, and encouragement have been the cornerstone of everything I’ve been able to achieve. In addition to being my partner and greatest source of strength, Virginia is also the owner of Love & Logic Skincare, where she inspires others through her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to helping people feel confident in their own skin. She has stood by my side through every challenge, whether it was navigating the profound loss of my mother, building the Susan D. Lyons Foundation for Hope, or pivoting into the political space with The American Spirit Podcast. Her belief in me, coupled with her own drive and vision, continues to motivate me every step of the way. She truly deserves credit and recognition for the integral role she plays in my story and the lives of so many others.

Website: https://linktr.ee/sdlf4h

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_american_spirit_podcast

Image Credits
Kevin Toliver-Lyons