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
40 snips
Jan 10, 2023 • 27min
Gen Z in the Workplace with Jonah and David Stillman
In this discussion, Jonah Stillman, a Gen Z member and researcher, shares insights alongside his father, David, who brings a Gen X perspective. They illuminate the unique challenges Gen Z faces in the workplace, including mental health and communication shifts. Jonah highlights the emphasis on results over methods and the diverse influences of global experiences on this generation. They also explore how empathy and understanding can bridge the gap between generations, advocating for curiosity over judgment in workplace interactions.
17 snips
Jan 3, 2023 • 21min
Ask Simon Anything: Part Two
Explore how to tackle feelings of overwhelm in the education system and the disconnect between leadership and parents. Discover the transformative impact of millennials and Gen Z in leadership, emphasizing inclusivity and resilience. Delve into the balance of optimism versus pessimism in motivating teams and how diverse perspectives drive growth. Learn the value of mentorship and collaboration, coupled with creative thinking, in shaping effective leadership and fostering camaraderie in organizations.
41 snips
Dec 27, 2022 • 23min
Ask Simon Anything: Part One
Listeners' burning questions lead to a deep dive into important topics. The conversation covers the necessity of reevaluating priorities post-lockdown and the concept of a 'circle of safety' at work for open expression. ADHD is reframed as a unique advantage in creativity, advocating for empathetic hiring practices. The podcast tackles imposter syndrome and effective leadership, sharing lessons from 'Unreasonable Hospitality.' Finally, it emphasizes adopting a growth mindset and contrasts military training with private sector approaches for a balanced ambition.
66 snips
Dec 20, 2022 • 27min
Two Bits of Optimism with Brené Brown and Adam Grant: Part Two
In this lively conversation, Brené Brown, a renowned research professor known for her insights on vulnerability, and Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist celebrated for his studies on creativity, dive into the essence of leadership and collaboration. They spotlight the beauty of imperfect drafts and the power of constructive feedback. The duo discusses how vulnerability can enhance team dynamics and the role of collaboration in sparking innovative ideas. Their candid banter reveals deep connections and mutual admiration, making for an engaging listen!
212 snips
Dec 13, 2022 • 38min
Two Bits of Optimism with Brené Brown and Adam Grant: Part One
Brené Brown, a leading researcher on vulnerability, and Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist, bring sparks of inspiration in a free-flowing conversation. They explore the origins of creativity, highlighting the power of conversation to inspire insights. Personal anecdotes reveal how storytelling transforms complex ideas. The duo discusses creativity as a learned behavior shaped by experience, stressing the importance of nurturing it early. They also stress the need for purposeful communication while recognizing the balance between 'maker days' and 'manager days' in fostering innovation.
30 snips
Dec 6, 2022 • 23min
Being Yourself with Kathryn Finney
Kathryn Finney, an author and entrepreneur, champions the power of authenticity in a world that often demands conformity. She shares her journey of embracing uniqueness, discussing the delicate balance between individuality and belonging. Kathryn dives into themes of self-discovery, the challenges of nonconformity in the tech industry, and how these struggles can foster genuine connections. Her insights encourage listeners to celebrate their own identities while recognizing the value of diverse perspectives in leadership and innovation.
6 snips
Nov 29, 2022 • 42min
Live A Long, Happy Life with physician Mark Hyman
Mark Hyman, a physician and pioneer in functional medicine, discusses how food is the real medicine for longevity and wellness. He emphasizes the benefits of fasting and clean eating to activate natural healing processes in the body. Hyman also highlights the advantages of hot and cold therapies for boosting health and the importance of reconnecting with ancestral eating habits. Additionally, he stresses the role of social connections in enhancing life satisfaction and encourages finding balance between enjoyment and healthy living.
25 snips
Nov 22, 2022 • 23min
The Value of Interruptions with Janis Burl
In this engaging conversation, Janis Burl, a former TSA employee and creator of the agency's popular Instagram account, shares her unique journey through a non-linear career path. She discusses how humor and creativity can reshape perceptions of government agencies, making them more relatable. Janis emphasizes the importance of curiosity and being a generalist while navigating social media in public sectors. She also highlights the transformative power of interruptions and encourages embracing unexpected challenges as opportunities for growth and joy in work.
20 snips
Nov 15, 2022 • 25min
The Sweet Bitter with Susan Cain
Susan Cain, bestselling author of "Bittersweet," delves into the profound beauty of life's dualities. She explores how sorrow enriches our appreciation of joy, emphasizing the complex interplay of emotions. Discussion highlights include the importance of music in expressing feelings, navigating difficult conversations about grief, and the value of using 'I statements' for better communication. With personal stories and insights, Cain inspires a deeper understanding of embracing both the sweet and the bitter in our lives.
35 snips
Nov 8, 2022 • 19min
Kindness with James Rhee
James Rhee, a former private equity investor turned CEO of Ashley Stewart, discusses the transformative power of kindness in business. He emphasizes how intangibles like goodwill can significantly impact a company’s success. Rhee shares insights on the shift in business ethics and the importance of authentic leadership, particularly in uplifting marginalized communities. He advocates for tailoring leadership decisions with empathy and connection, illustrating how a human-centric approach fosters a thriving workplace culture.
