A Bit of Optimism
Simon Sinek
My career is an accident. It started when I set out to rediscover my passion and reignite a spark I’d lost — and that journey led me to the work I do now.
If you know me from my books or my speaking, you know I’m fascinated by why people do what they do. What makes someone find joy and meaning in their life, or pursue something far greater than themselves?
I started A Bit of Optimism to explore those ideas and expand my own perspective. This podcast is a trove of honest conversations, with people who challenge me, teach me, or simply help me see things in a different way. Some guests are household names, and others you may be meeting for the first time. But each one of them has something to share that can help all of us grow.
So if you’re looking for a spark — some insight, inspiration, or just a reminder that good things are possible — join me on A Bit of Optimism!
Let’s grow together.
If you know me from my books or my speaking, you know I’m fascinated by why people do what they do. What makes someone find joy and meaning in their life, or pursue something far greater than themselves?
I started A Bit of Optimism to explore those ideas and expand my own perspective. This podcast is a trove of honest conversations, with people who challenge me, teach me, or simply help me see things in a different way. Some guests are household names, and others you may be meeting for the first time. But each one of them has something to share that can help all of us grow.
So if you’re looking for a spark — some insight, inspiration, or just a reminder that good things are possible — join me on A Bit of Optimism!
Let’s grow together.
Episodes
Mentioned books
213 snips
Nov 25, 2025 • 57min
The Culture That Converts Even the Biggest Cynics with former WD-40 CEO Garry Ridge
Garry Ridge, former CEO of WD-40, shares his extraordinary journey from a traditional manager to a culture-driven leader. He transformed WD-40 into a place where employees thrive, focusing on purpose and psychological safety. Garry discusses the importance of creating a loving work environment, even amid chaos. He emphasizes values over command, coaching over managing, and the role of incremental change in building a strong culture. The conversation reveals how engaging employees leads to lasting success, making leaders rethink their approach to workplace culture.
235 snips
Nov 18, 2025 • 58min
Choose Your Seven Humans Wisely with author Fredrik Backman
Bestselling novelist Fredrik Backman, known for his heartfelt stories, shares insights about friendship and connection. He reveals that cultivating meaningful friendships takes effort, not luck. Fredrik discusses how true friends support and celebrate each other, acting as emotional editors. He emphasizes the importance of investing time in relationships and choosing friends who complement our flaws. With warmth and humor, he offers lessons on being a better friend, underscoring that depth trumps quantity in friendships.
127 snips
Nov 11, 2025 • 1h 5min
The Smartest Way To Be Stupid with comedian Matthew Broussard
Matthew Broussard—a stand-up comedian, math enthusiast, and former financial analyst—explores the intriguing relationship between comedy and vulnerability. He emphasizes the importance of fresh perspectives in learning, arguing that feeling 'stupid' can lead to growth. Matthew details his transition from finance to comedy, the impact of social media on exposure, and how personal anecdotes connect with audiences. He also discusses the necessity of dynamic math education and shares tips for balancing creativity with professional integrity.
120 snips
Nov 4, 2025 • 1h 12min
The Man Who Proved Me Right with CEO Bob Chapman and the Barry-Wehmiller Team
Bob Chapman, CEO of Barry-Wehmiller and author of *Everybody Matters*, champions Truly Human Leadership, emphasizing empathy in the workplace. He shares how prioritizing care transformed his company, enhancing employee well-being and productivity. Randall Fleming, a long-tenured team member, recounts his journey from skepticism to transformation through Barry-Wehmiller's leadership training. They discuss the critical link between workplace culture and personal fulfillment, advocating that caring leadership is vital for lasting business success.
119 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 1h 2min
Rob Lowe Names Names: The Power of ‘Screw It’
Rob Lowe, a veteran actor and author known for iconic roles in films and TV like The West Wing and Parks and Recreation, shares his journey through stardom and resilience. He discusses the importance of risk-taking and how public failures have shaped his career, highlighting the infamous Oscars mishap. Lowe emphasizes the value of authenticity, both on and off camera, and offers practical insights on gratitude and managing expectations to sustain joy. Through candid storytelling, he proves that laughter and authenticity are key to longevity in Hollywood.
257 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 1h 7min
The Future You Avoid Is Riskier Than the One You Face with LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman
Reid Hoffman, cofounder of LinkedIn and venture capitalist, shares his insights on the power of storytelling in technology and society. He argues that optimistic futures must be imagined to be created. Hoffman discusses how AI changes our brains and the focus shifts from external to internal threats. He critiques short-term capitalism through the Kodak example, emphasizing a balance of selflessness and ambition. Ultimately, he advocates for a hopeful vision of technology while navigating the complexities of privacy and societal impact.
295 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 1h 2min
What Your Love Life Can Teach You About Work Relationships with psychotherapist Esther Perel
Esther Perel, renowned psychotherapist and author, shares her profound insights into modern relationships. She discusses how evolving societal norms are reshaping our understanding of intimacy, both personally and professionally. Perel emphasizes the importance of emotional connections over traditional duties. She advocates for playful interactions and the necessity of 'talking to strangers' to build lasting bonds. Additionally, she addresses challenges faced by young professionals in remote work, highlighting the irreplaceable value of in-person interactions for fostering workplace culture.
857 snips
Sep 2, 2025 • 56min
Your Instincts Know What You Want with Author Arthur Brooks
Join Arthur Brooks, a Harvard professor and bestselling author known for his insights on happiness and purpose, as he navigates the complexities of life. He discusses how instincts serve as a compass in our pursuit of joy and the importance of embracing the journey over mere outcomes. Arthur shares powerful lessons from his own reinventions and emphasizes the value of struggle in personal growth. With critiques of technology's impact on happiness, he inspires listeners to trust their gut and redefine what fulfillment means in a fast-paced world.
192 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 1h 1min
The Power of Doing One Thing Exceptionally Well with Gymshark Founder and CEO Ben Francis
Ben Francis, the dynamic Founder and CEO of Gymshark, shares his incredible journey from sewing clothes in his bedroom to leading a billion-dollar fitness brand. He emphasizes the power of focusing on one thing exceptionally well, building brand integrity while nurturing a supportive community. Ben discusses lessons learned from misguided expansions and the importance of mentorship. He reflects on balancing personal happiness with professional responsibilities and advocates for authenticity in both fitness and business, proving that lasting success is rooted in genuine passion.
117 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 1h 6min
Simon Goes Nuclear with nuclear energy influencer Isabelle Boemeke
Isabelle Boemeke, also known as Isodope, is a Brazilian model turned nuclear energy influencer dedicated to changing perceptions of nuclear power. She passionately discusses how branding shapes our fear of nuclear energy, advocating for its potential as a clean, low-carbon solution to climate change. Isabelle shares her journey from modeling to science and explores the complexities of nuclear power, emphasizing its myths and the importance of effective communication. Her insights aim to inspire a new generation to embrace nuclear energy for a brighter future.
