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
230 snips
Nov 26, 2024 • 49min
The First Steps to Find Love with Matthew Hussey
Matthew Hussey, a seasoned dating coach and author of "Love Life," shares valuable insights from his nearly two decades of experience in helping others find love. He discusses common dating mistakes and emphasizes the importance of self-empowerment in the search for romance. Matthew critiques the impact of technology on social skills and highlights the need for genuine in-person connections. The conversation also touches on navigating insecurities in relationships and the transformative power of self-love and open communication for building deeper bonds.
157 snips
Nov 19, 2024 • 48min
Dr. Mark Hyman: To Live Longer You Need...
Dr. Mark Hyman, a leading figure in functional medicine and host of "The Doctor's Pharmacy" podcast, discusses the transformative power of friendship on health. He stresses that close social connections can boost well-being and combat loneliness, which can be as harmful as smoking. The conversation dives into how nutrition impacts relationships and critiques the supplement industry's lack of regulation. Ultimately, Hyman underscores that nurturing friendships and community ties are key to longevity and true happiness.
48 snips
Nov 12, 2024 • 1h 4min
Alexis Ohanian: Why I Left Reddit and Why Greed Can Inspire Good
Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit and founder of 776, discusses his resignation from Reddit in protest of social injustices. He believes in merging integrity with long-term gains in entrepreneurship. The conversation dives into the race for AI supremacy, the challenges of monopolies in tech, and the importance of ethical standards. Ohanian emphasizes the need for sustainable capitalism and the role of young entrepreneurs in tackling climate change. He also reflects on the progress in women's sports, highlighting the significance of empowering voices.
48 snips
Nov 5, 2024 • 40min
What can we learn from a rural school in Kenya? with principal Carol Moraa
Carol Moraa, the inspiring founding principal of Kisaruni Girls High School and Provost for Legacy College in Kenya, shares insights on transforming education for young women in rural Kenya. She emphasizes how motivated students thrive when education is seen as a choice. The conversation explores the unique scheduling system that allows students to tailor their studies around family responsibilities. Moraa also highlights the joy of community living and the importance of gratitude, showcasing how strong local ties uplift families from poverty.
132 snips
Oct 29, 2024 • 42min
Peace Is A Process with negotiation expert William Ury
William Ury, a world-renowned negotiation expert and author of "Getting to Yes," shares his invaluable experience in conflict resolution. He emphasizes that peace is a continuous process requiring understanding and empathy. Dive into his powerful insights on negotiating with adversaries, such as during a tense session between Turkish and Kurdish leaders. Ury also discusses strategies for engaging in difficult conversations, including the importance of curiosity and active listening, ultimately highlighting the transformative power of empathy in bridging divides.
71 snips
Oct 22, 2024 • 56min
Creating Astonishment with Chicago Bears CEO Kevin Warren
Kevin Warren, President and CEO of the Chicago Bears, and former Big Ten commissioner, explores the essence of astonishment in life and leadership. He shares transformative lessons from overcoming childhood adversity, emphasizing the importance of slowing down to appreciate small moments. Warren discusses the fulfillment found in teamwork and shared struggles, especially within the Bears organization. He also advocates for redefining productivity by valuing rest and nurturing personal connections in this digital age, ultimately urging listeners to cherish meaningful experiences.
55 snips
Oct 15, 2024 • 33min
A Lifetime of Leadership with President Joe Biden
Joe Biden, former President of the United States, shares insights from his extensive leadership journey that began in the Senate at age 29. He emphasizes that leadership is deeply personal and evolves with life's changes. Biden discusses the vital role of family values and meaningful relationships in shaping effective leaders. He reflects on the resilience of American idealism amidst political challenges and the importance of bipartisan cooperation. Additionally, he highlights advocacy against violence and the necessity of protecting others to foster empowered communities.
19 snips
Oct 8, 2024 • 39min
Revisited: How To Be A Friend with chef and entrepreneur Christina Tosi
In this engaging discussion, Christina Tosi, the innovative founder of Milk Bar and Netflix's Bake Squad, dives into the many layers of friendship. She emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, sharing personal stories about asking for help during tough times. Christina explores how food, especially nostalgic desserts like cereal milk ice cream, fosters emotional connections. The conversation also highlights the impact of small gestures, like an 'eight-minute phone call,' in nurturing relationships and countering loneliness.
16 snips
Oct 1, 2024 • 50min
Revisited: Molly's Game with Molly Bloom
Molly Bloom, a former high-stakes poker game organizer and the inspiration behind 'Molly's Game,' shares her captivating journey from aspiring Olympic athlete to running underground poker games. She reflects on the allure and pitfalls of gambling, including brushes with celebrities and crime. Molly discusses her legal battles and the quest for redemption, balancing themes of confidence and vulnerability, and emphasizes the importance of personal growth over societal expectations. Her story is a testament to resilience and finding fulfillment beyond fame.
51 snips
Sep 17, 2024 • 34min
Revisited: We Cannot Heal Alone In The Loneliness Epidemic with Rabbi Sharon Brous
Rabbi Sharon Brous, an influential leader and founder of iKAR, discusses the profound impact of grief and loneliness in our lives. She explores how shared sorrow can foster genuine connections and emphasizes the critical need for community support. Through storytelling, she highlights the importance of being present for each other and embracing vulnerability as a path to healing. Rabbi Brous also addresses how the loneliness epidemic has led some to cling to conspiracy theories and underscores the necessity of compassion and mutual aid in overcoming isolation.
