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
Mar 5, 2024 • 44min
Four Years in Solitary Confinement with political prisoner Leopoldo Lopez
Join Leopoldo Lopez, former political prisoner and leader of Venezuela's opposition, as he shares his incredible resilience during four years in solitary confinement. He discusses how he cultivated mental strength through nonviolent resistance and the importance of daily routines. Lopez recounts his dramatic escape amidst political chaos, including tense meetings with military officials and navigating dangerous checkpoints. His journey highlights the power of idealism, community engagement, and the vital role of reputation in advocacy. A story of enduring hope and transformation.
7 snips
Feb 27, 2024 • 42min
Redemption with charity founder Scott Harrison
Scott Harrison, founder of charity: water, transformed from a NYC nightclub promoter to a champion of clean drinking water. He shares his eye-opening experiences in West Africa that ignited his mission after a life-altering health scare. The discussion highlights his unique charity model emphasizing full transparency and the power of individual contributions. Scott contrasts fleeting pleasures with the lasting joy of service, inspiring us to engage in meaningful change. His journey exemplifies how one person's redemption can create ripple effects in communities worldwide.
86 snips
Feb 20, 2024 • 28min
Supercommunicators with journalist Charles Duhigg
Charles Duhigg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of Supercommunicators, shares insights on the art of communication. He reveals how great communicators are made through practice, not born with innate talent. The importance of storytelling in conveying complex ideas is emphasized, as well as the essential role of honesty in high-stakes situations, illustrated by a CIA officer's experience. Duhigg also discusses the power of vulnerability in fostering connections and how genuine dialogue can bridge differing viewpoints to create unity.
15 snips
Feb 13, 2024 • 21min
Community Starts at Home with author Alexandra Hudson
Alexandra Hudson, author of "The Soul of Civility," shares her journey from disillusionment in government to advocating for community building. She emphasizes the power of civility in bridging societal divides and highlights the importance of cultivating genuine connections, starting in our own neighborhoods. Discussing the impact of grassroots movements, she outlines how intentional interactions can foster trust and friendship in a fragmented world. Hudson also underscores the role of kindness and grace in navigating the complexities of modern relationships.
42 snips
Feb 6, 2024 • 40min
How To Be A Friend with chef Christina Tosi
Christina Tosi, the innovative founder and CEO of Milk Bar, dives deep into the importance of friendship and vulnerability. She shares heartfelt stories about the comfort desserts can provide, especially during tough times. Tosi emphasizes that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness, and highlights the essence of nurturing relationships. The conversation also includes her unique virtual baking event, Bait Club, which celebrates community and connection. Plus, a delightful ice cream loaf recipe is revealed to sweeten your day!
37 snips
Jan 30, 2024 • 32min
Why Awkward is Awesome with psychologist Ty Tashiro
Ty Tashiro, a psychologist and author specializing in social awkwardness, explores the surprising advantages of being awkward. He discusses how awkwardness often signals extraordinary potential, debunks the myth that it's exclusive to introverts, and shares techniques to improve social skills. Tashiro also examines the genetic basis of social awkwardness and its connection to creativity. Listeners gain insights into navigating social interactions and the unique strengths that awkward individuals bring to relationships.
44 snips
Jan 23, 2024 • 35min
A Theory of Everyone with behavioral researcher Dr. Michael Muthukrishna
In a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Michael Muthukrishna, an associate professor of economic psychology at the London School of Economics and author of "A Theory of Everyone," fascinating topics unfold. He dives into the origins of religion and cultural evolution, examining how our brains and education shape reasoning. Muthukrishna discusses the evolution of trust and cooperation, emphasizing the role of kinship. He also highlights cultural evolution's impact on modern challenges like individualism and climate change. A captivating exploration of humanity's behaviors and future!
183 snips
Jan 16, 2024 • 33min
Atomic Habits with author James Clear
James Clear, the author of the #1 New York Times bestseller Atomic Habits, dives into the science of habit formation. He reveals the 'four laws of behavior change' that can help you break bad habits and establish good ones. Clear emphasizes the power of small, consistent changes for personal growth and discusses the importance of aligning habits with one's identity. He also touches on the significance of meaningful connections and creativity in transforming lives, while advocating for idealism and teamwork in a divisive world.
29 snips
Jan 9, 2024 • 35min
Excellence with Silicon Valley Legend Jackie Reses
Jackie Reses, a Silicon Valley executive with a remarkable history at Yahoo!, Alibaba, and Square, is now shaking up the banking world as the founder and CEO of a new bank. She shares her insights on assembling innovative teams and the critical role of grit, paranoia, and excellence in achieving lasting success. Jackie emphasizes the necessity of fostering a creative corporate culture where risk-taking thrives. Plus, she reflects on the evolving landscape of banking and the power of trust and collaboration to enhance user experiences.
17 snips
Dec 19, 2023 • 34min
Imperfections, Nuance, and Humanity with comedian Alex Edelman
In a captivating discussion, comedian Alex Edelman shares insights from his acclaimed show, "Just For Us," where he recounts his unexpected experience at a white supremacist meeting. He explores the beauty of imperfections and how humor sheds light on the absurdities of humanity. The conversation touches on the vital role of comedians as truth-tellers, the complexities of identity in comedy, and the delicate balance between good and evil in societal narratives. Along the way, they debate the merits of IHOP and the nuances of human experience.
