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
6 snips
Dec 14, 2021 • 29min
Being Rich with Ron Finley
Special guest Ron Finley, an activist and education reformer, shares his journey of transforming urban spaces into thriving gardens. He discusses the detrimental effects of materialism on identity and community, advocating for a shift towards valuing intrinsic worth. Ron highlights how gardening empowers youth, fostering personal growth and nutritional awareness. He reflects on parenting, emphasizing love and freedom for children to explore, and stresses the importance of nurturing relationships alongside nature.
Dec 7, 2021 • 33min
Hope with Shamma Al Mazrui
In this enlightening discussion, Shamma Al Mazrui, the UAE's Minister of State for Youth Affairs and the youngest government minister globally, shares her vision for empowering youth. She emphasizes the critical need for youth representation in government and the art of listening to bridge generational divides. Al Mazrui advocates for a new youth empowerment policy, highlighting how diversity enhances problem-solving. She also reflects on her journey, illustrating how motherhood has shaped her infinite mindset and belief in a hopeful future.
20 snips
Nov 30, 2021 • 22min
The Asymmetry of Power with Tristan Harris
Tristan Harris, a former tech employee and advocate for responsible technology, dives into the immense power held by a few tech companies. He discusses the manipulative effects of social media on society, drawing from insights in 'The Social Dilemma.' Tristan explores how algorithm-driven content can lead to radicalization, and the paradox of powerful innovations that can either empower or destroy. He emphasizes personal responsibility in navigating the tech landscape, urging listeners to foster meaningful connections and moral accountability in our digital age.
13 snips
Nov 23, 2021 • 24min
Family with Ari Emanuel
Ari Emanuel, the powerhouse founder and CEO of WME Endeavor, dives deep into family dynamics and personal identity. He shares how contrasting parenting styles influenced his and his brothers' paths, shaping their success. Ari emphasizes the importance of viewing pressure as a growth opportunity, and redefines failure as a stepping stone to resilience. He also highlights the need for strong support systems for children with learning differences, showing that true independence comes from community, not isolation.
37 snips
Jun 29, 2021 • 36min
Enchantment with Chloe Valdary
Chloe Valdary, founder of the Theory of Enchantment, brings a refreshing take on diversity, equity, and inclusion. She argues that self-love is key to uniting people and critiques traditional DEI methods that may deepen divides. Chloe shares transformative experiences where genuine connections prompted ideological shifts, even within KKK members. She emphasizes the importance of humility in learning and navigating complex human behaviors, advocating for personal accountability and empathy to foster community understanding.
25 snips
Jun 22, 2021 • 34min
The Value of Failing with Suneel Gupta
Suneel Gupta, a serial entrepreneur and author of "Backable," shares powerful insights on embracing failure as a vital stepping stone to success. He discusses how fear of failure stifles innovation, and emphasizes the importance of teaching resilience through personal stories. Suneel highlights a mother who broke barriers as Ford's first female engineer and redefines success as purpose-driven. The conversation also explores the essential role of teamwork and collaborative storytelling in fostering innovation and collective growth.
19 snips
Jun 15, 2021 • 42min
Awesome Responsibility with Kyle Carpenter
Kyle Carpenter, the youngest living recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor, discusses his extraordinary act of selflessness during military service. He emphasizes the shared responsibility we have to care for one another, diving into themes of resilience and personal growth through adversity. Carpenter reflects on the emotional connections within the Marine Corps and how our legacies shape future responsibilities. He illustrates the power of self-worth linked to sacrifice, urging listeners to embrace compassion and kindness.
36 snips
Jun 8, 2021 • 30min
Raising Resilient Kids with Angela Duckworth
Renowned psychologist Angela Duckworth, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania and author of 'Grit', dives deep into the challenges of raising resilient children. She discusses the impact of modern parenting styles, highlighting the dangers of overprotection and the need for kids to face challenges. The conversation touches on the importance of community, the hidden costs of technology on mental well-being, and how cultivating purpose and social connections can combat isolation. Discover valuable insights into nurturing growth in today’s youth!
11 snips
Jun 1, 2021 • 32min
Learning to Love with Tim Shriver
Tim Shriver, a prominent disability rights activist and chairman of Special Olympics, dives deep into the essence of love and connection. He discusses the unique joys and challenges of parenting and grandparenting, emphasizing the power of authentic relationships. Shriver explores the rising anxiety stemming from societal individualism and the urgent need for trust and unity. He highlights the significance of genuine apologies and the essential role of connection in learning, advocating for a shift from self-focus to collective compassion in an increasingly disconnected world.
35 snips
May 25, 2021 • 39min
Thinking Differently with Matthew Barzun
Matthew Barzun, former U.S. Ambassador to Sweden and Great Britain, shares his innovative leadership philosophies and unique insights on navigating life and work. He emphasizes a shift from a hunting mindset to a farming mindset, fostering growth and collaboration rather than competition. Barzun discusses revolutionary communication methods like green button dialing and reflects on how childhood challenges shaped his resilience. He advocates for humility in leadership and the power of authentic connections to tackle societal issues.
