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
8 snips
Jul 16, 2024 • 38min
Breaking Tradition with cellist Anastasia Kobekina
Anastasia Kobekina, an innovative cellist known for her experimental approach to classical music, dives into the need for disruption in the genre. She discusses her journey of redefining classical performances for modern audiences, blending improvisation with tradition. Anastasia reflects on her emotional connections to music and the challenges of performing as a solo artist. The conversation touches on the shift from albums to playlists, emphasizing the importance of personal expression in reaching new listeners. A soulful performance of 'Hallelujah' caps off the inspiring dialogue.
67 snips
Jul 9, 2024 • 47min
How to Breathe Out Fear with freediver Li Karlsen
Li Karlsen, a record-holding freediver, shares her incredible insights on managing stress and fear through breath control. She highlights how overcoming fears underwater translates to life above the surface. Li discusses the mental resilience gained from freediving, touching on her challenging ice diving experiences. The podcast dives into the transformative power of breathing techniques, including nostril breathing and mouth taping, emphasizing their role in enhancing emotional well-being and tackling anxiety.
343 snips
Jul 2, 2024 • 38min
More Thinking About Thinking with Brené Brown and Adam Grant: Part Two
In this engaging discussion, Brené Brown, a research professor renowned for her insights on vulnerability, and Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist celebrated for his work on originality, explore the depths of self-reflection. They tackle the significance of identifying core values in leadership and the impact of misalignment between values and behaviors. The conversation delves into the complexities of narcissism, social dynamics, and the critical role of self-awareness in effective thinking. Humor and personal anecdotes add a delightful touch to their profound insights.
261 snips
Jun 25, 2024 • 43min
Thinking About Thinking with Brené Brown and Adam Grant: Part One
Join Brené Brown, a research professor known for her work on vulnerability, and Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist, as they dive deep into self-awareness and the power of self-reflection. They discuss the importance of vulnerability in building connections and how to navigate emotional intelligence, especially in leadership. The conversation also touches on the significance of gratitude, resilience, and questioning our assumptions around aging and beauty, all while fostering curiosity and empathy in interpersonal dynamics.
72 snips
Jun 18, 2024 • 1h 2min
The War On The Young with Professor Scott Galloway
Scott Galloway, Professor of marketing at NYU Stern, dives into wealth inequality affecting young people, framing it as a war on their financial future. He critiques economic policies favoring older generations, spotlighting the need for systemic change and a progressive tax system. The discussion expands to include the importance of friendship and love amidst political chaos, highlighting how these relationships influence leadership. Galloway calls for ethical business practices, emphasizing collective responsibility in addressing socioeconomic disparities.
16 snips
Jun 11, 2024 • 31min
Moral Courage with Diane Foley, mother of executed journalist James Foley
Diane Foley, mother of executed journalist James Foley, shares her heart-wrenching journey of tragedy and forgiveness. After her son's death, she met one of his killers, illustrating her remarkable moral courage. Diane discusses how she transformed her grief into advocacy through The Foley Foundation, advocating for kidnapped Americans and journalist safety. She emphasizes the importance of empathy and resilience, urging listeners to find humanity even in those who seem irredeemable, a powerful message for our divisive times.
32 snips
Jun 4, 2024 • 28min
Humble Confidence with veteran and entrepreneur Blake Hall
Blake Hall, a former Army Ranger and CEO of ID.me, shares his inspiring journey from military service to entrepreneurship. He highlights how humility complements confidence in leadership, emphasizing that great leaders aren't afraid to ask for help. Blake discusses the critical transition veterans face into civilian life and the importance of safeguarding personal information. He also reflects on experiences from combat, showcasing that successful leadership often requires collective intelligence and smaller, achievable goals.
72 snips
May 28, 2024 • 25min
The Ultimate Infinite-Minded CEO with Trek Bicycle CEO John Burke
John Burke, CEO of Trek Bicycle Corporation, shares insights from his remarkable journey transforming Trek from a $250 million company to a $2 billion giant. He emphasizes a customer-centric leadership style and the principle of creating value first. Burke argues that focusing on 'play' rather than just 'winning' fosters a more innovative approach to leadership. He critiques the short-term mindset stifling creativity in both business and government, advocating for resilience and long-term vision to tackle societal challenges.
45 snips
May 21, 2024 • 32min
Be Necessary with war journalist Sebastian Junger
Sebastian Junger, a renowned war correspondent and author of bestselling books like "War" and "The Perfect Storm," discusses his profound near-death experience after surviving an aneurysm. He explores the fragility of life and the importance of human connection, emphasizing that being necessary to others fulfills a fundamental human need. Junger also shares insights from his journey from hazardous labor to war journalism, reflecting on community, the concept of honor, and the psychological challenges faced by veterans reintegrating into civilian life.
45 snips
May 14, 2024 • 34min
Invention is Reinvention with entrepreneur Eric Ryan
Eric Ryan, a serial entrepreneur known for co-founding Method Products and founding Olly and Welly, shares his insights on the creative process. He emphasizes that reinvention is vital for entrepreneurial success and discusses the distinction between entrepreneurship and small business ownership. Eric delves into balancing aesthetics and functionality in product design, illustrating how consumer psychology impacts innovation. He also recounts a personal story about fostering joy through creativity, highlighting the importance of maintaining childlike wonder in adult projects.
