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
95 snips
Nov 10, 2020 • 52min
A Bit of Everything with Adam Grant
Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist and bestselling author, explores a range of intriguing concepts. He discusses the power of vulnerable expression and how sharing unrefined ideas can enhance public speaking. The conversation dives into navigating optimism versus defensive pessimism and the psychological nuances of emotional responses. Grant also highlights humble leadership, emphasizing collaboration over individualism, and the essence of creativity, balancing passion with curiosity. Lastly, he touches on the resurgence of altruism in leadership dynamics, advocating for the importance of collaboration.
Sep 14, 2020 • 24min
Moving Forward with my sister Sara
A heartfelt discussion unfolds around a tragic family event from twenty years ago, revealing the profound impact of sudden loss. The speakers share their journey through grief, emphasizing the importance of community and empathy in healing. They highlight how shared experiences can foster deep connections and resilience, even amid adversity. Personal reflections on relationships and family dynamics offer insights into navigating challenges, while a focus on the role of decisions shapes personal growth and identity.
14 snips
Sep 7, 2020 • 25min
A Lot of Optimism (Or The One Where I Met Andy Grammer)
Join Andy Grammer, a singer-songwriter celebrated for his uplifting music, as he dives deep into the roots of optimism. He reveals how personal pain can ignite a brighter future, encouraging post-traumatic growth. Through touching stories, he showcases the transformative power of kindness and human connection, including a heartwarming moment on Skid Row. The discussion also highlights the 'kindness virus' and the biological benefits of generosity, emphasizing that overcoming barriers to kindness not only enriches others but strengthens our own resilience.
Aug 31, 2020 • 34min
Ethical Fading with Lenny Wong
Lenny Wong, an expert on ethical fading with 20 years of military experience, discusses how good cultures can slip into unethical practices. He dives into how individuals rationalize dishonest behaviors, even in corporate and military settings. Wong highlights the dangers of bureaucracy, where anonymity softens ethical scrutiny. He advocates for compassion in addressing hypocrisy, promoting environments that encourage honesty and mentorship. Finally, he emphasizes the need for integrity and transparency in organizations to combat ethical fading.
8 snips
Aug 24, 2020 • 25min
Second Chances with Bruce Deel
Bruce Deel, the Founder of City of Refuge, shares his inspiring journey helping marginalized individuals overcome challenges like poverty and addiction. He emphasizes the power of second chances and the importance of compassion in transforming lives. Deel discusses the value of empathetic listening, arguing that we should separate identity from behavior. His insights on the detrimental effects of labeling individuals showcase the potential for personal growth. Through heartfelt stories, he illustrates how small changes can lead to remarkable transformations.
Aug 17, 2020 • 37min
Challenging Authority with Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss
Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss delve into the impact of centralized power in the realms of money and the internet. They discuss the transformative potential of decentralization, particularly with Bitcoin, challenging existing authority. The twins explore privacy concerns in the U.S. versus Europe, as well as the nuances of free speech in today’s social media landscape. They also address monopolistic behaviors hindering innovation and the significance of effective partnerships in business. It's a thought-provoking conversation on reclaiming personal power in the digital age.
24 snips
Aug 10, 2020 • 52min
Extreme Listening with Deeyah Khan
Deeyah Khan, a groundbreaking filmmaker known for her documentary on extreme ideologies, shares her profound insights on understanding and engaging with white supremacists. She discusses the transformative power of extreme listening and the importance of empathy in overcoming societal divides. Khan highlights how personal connections and sincere dialogues can challenge violent narratives and foster change. She also explores the psychological struggles faced by individuals leaving extremist groups, emphasizing the need for belonging and supportive communities.
19 snips
Aug 3, 2020 • 28min
Quiet Service with General Stan McChrystal
General Stan McChrystal, the former Commander of the Joint Special Operations Command, shares his insights on the theme of Quiet Service. He contrasts the fulfillment of serving without public affirmation against today’s social media culture. Through personal stories, he discusses the importance of community responsibility and individual actions. McChrystal emphasizes effective communication in addressing existential threats and advocates for universal healthcare as a cornerstone of social justice. His reflections on humility and service offer poignant lessons on resilience in a distracting world.
11 snips
Jul 27, 2020 • 49min
Courage with Guy Raz
In a thought-provoking discussion, popular podcaster Guy Raz shares insights from his diverse career as a war correspondent and storyteller. He explores the different dimensions of courage, from personal struggles to confronting uncomfortable societal truths. Raz emphasizes the importance of listening, understanding systemic issues, and engaging in difficult conversations. The conversation also tackles the intersection of American optimism with historical accountability while highlighting the significance of forgiveness and kindness in fostering deeper connections.
6 snips
Jul 20, 2020 • 24min
Gratitude with Carolyn Adams
In this conversation, Carolyn Adams, a world-renowned dancer and educator, shares her inspiring journey through the civil rights era and the challenges of the arts. She discusses the deep connections between family, identity, and art, and the importance of addressing race and education. Carolyn emphasizes the transformative power of gratitude, showing how a positive outlook can cultivate resilience. She also explains the science behind kindness, illustrating how acts of generosity boost emotional well-being for everyone involved.
