Blue Sky

November is Gratitude Month at the Optimism Institute and this episode wraps up our celebration while kicking off Thanksgiving weekend.  Blue Sky host and founder of The Optimism Institute Bill Burke shares his thoughts on the tight link between gratitude and optimism and has selected excerpts from past episodes to drive this point home.  Blue Sky alums explain the health benefits of gratitude, the many reasons to be grateful to be alive today, and why, despite our many challenges, the United States and its founding ideals are worth believing in and being thankful for.      Chapters:  00:00 Welcome to Blue Sky Podcast  Host Bill Burke introduces the Blue Sky Podcast, setting the stage for a special episode focused on gratitude. He emphasizes the importance of optimism and appreciation, especially during the Thanksgiving season.  01:20 The Meaning of Grace  Bill explores the origins of the word ‘grace’ and its connection to gratitude, linking it to the Latin word ‘gratia.’   02:14 Cicero on Gratitude  Quoting Cicero, Bill discusses the significance of gratitude as a foundational virtue that fosters optimism.  03:20 The Benefits of Gratitude  Bill highlights the health benefits of optimism and gratitude, referencing Dr. Richie Davidson’s insights on neuroplasticity. He introduces a practice of appreciation before meals to deepen our sense of gratitude.  06:03 Embracing “Pronoia”  Bill shares Kevin Kelly’s concept of “pronoia,” the belief that the universe is conspiring to help us succeed.   08:20 Life is Good: Gratitude in Adversity  Bert Jacobs from Life is Good reflects on how letters from customers facing hardships revealed a common thread of gratitude.   11:00 Gratitude for America  Bill pivots to discuss gratitude for the United States, featuring Anh Vu Sawyer’s thoughts on the freedom and resources America provides, enabling her to help others.  15:19 Loving America: A Personal Perspective  Ted Johnson shares his deep love for America, emphasizing its promise of democracy and equality.   17:10 Countering Negativity in Media  Bill discusses the challenge of negativity in the news and introduces guests like Angus Hervey and David Bornstein, who promote good news and solutions journalism.   18:24 The Power of Gratitude  Chris Anderson emphasizes the importance of daily gratitude practices and how they can transform our outlook on life. He encourages listeners to appreciate the simple joys and connections we often take for granted.  20:30 Gratitude as Contagious  David Gardner discusses the contagious nature of gratitude and optimism, highlighting how expressing appreciation can uplift others.   22:30 Appreciation in the Workplace  David Novak shares his philosophy on the importance of appreciation in leadership and workplace culture.   25:38 Healthcare Innovations and Gratitude  Bill reflects on the advancements in healthcare and the gratitude felt by patients and practitioners alike. He shares stories of resilience from guests who have faced significant health challenges.  28:00 Finding Gratitude in Hardship  Christina Menkemeller shares her journey of finding gratitude amidst illness, emphasizing the importance of recognizing ‘Godwinks.’ Her practice of daily gratitude helps her combat negativity.  30:16 The Impact of Mentorship  Bill highlights being grateful for mentors, with stories from Melissa Connolly and Jonathan Conyers. They express gratitude for the guidance they received, which now fuels their own efforts to help others.  33:01 The Pan Mass Challenge: A Legacy of Gratitude  Billy Starr discusses the Pan Mass Challenge and the gratitude expressed by participants. He contrasts the supportive atmosphere of the event with other athletic competitions, highlighting the power of thankfulness. 

Kevin Adler grew up with a beloved uncle, Mark, who never forgot to send him a Hallmark card on his birthday.  Over time, Kevin learned that his uncle was unhoused and suffering from schizophrenia.  When Mark died at the age of 50, Kevin decided that working to solve the crisis of homelessness would be his life’s work.  The experience of having a close relative in this predicament made him realize that “everybody is somebody’s somebody,” and deserving of our compassion.  He founded Miracle Messages, a nonprofit working to tell the stories of individuals who are unhoused, in hopes of connecting and reuniting them with estranged friends and family.  To date, they have facilitated more than 800 people and have created a phone buddy system where volunteers communicate weekly with their assigned partner, building relationships where none existed before. Kevin Adler tells this story in his new book, When We Walk By, and shares many of these stories in this episode, while also describing his optimistic views on basic income and affordable housing programs.    Chapters: 03:09 The Personal Journey Begins  Kevin recounts his personal connection to homelessness through his Uncle Mark, whose struggles profoundly influenced his life’s work. This emotional story sets the stage for Kevin’s mission to humanize those experiencing homelessness.  05:19 The Crisis of Shared Humanity  Kevin discusses the dual crises of inadequate service systems and a lack of shared humanity in addressing homelessness.   08:12 The Jeffrey Story  Kevin shares the poignant story of Jeffrey, a man he helped reconnect with his family after years of separation.   12:00 Understanding Relational Poverty  The conversation shifts to the concept of relational poverty, emphasizing the importance of social connections in preventing homelessness.   16:39 Challenging Stereotypes  Kevin discusses the harmful stereotypes surrounding homelessness and the diverse experiences of those affected.   19:54 Miracle Messages Programs  Kevin elaborates on the various programs of Miracle Messages, including family reunification and the Miracle Friends Phone Buddy program.   25:00 The Impact of Basic Income  The discussion turns to the controversial topic of basic income, with Kevin sharing insights from his organization’s pilot program.   30:01 Rethinking Assistance: The Impact of Basic Income  In this chapter, Kevin Adler discusses the misconceptions surrounding financial assistance for the homeless, emphasizing that many recipients prioritize housing and basic needs over substance use.   32:01 Success Metrics: Measuring Impact  Adler shares the positive outcomes of Miracle Messages’ programs, revealing that 80% of reunions lead to improved health and social conditions.   34:17 The Cost of Homelessness: A Financial Perspective  This chapter dives into the financial implications of homelessness, comparing the costs of emergency services for unhoused individuals to the potential savings of providing basic income.   36:47 The Affordable Housing Crisis  Adler tackles the pressing issue of affordable housing, discussing the systemic underinvestment and barriers faced by those in need.   39:13 Lessons from History: The 1906 San Francisco Earthquake  Drawing parallels between the 1906 earthquake and today’s homelessness crisis, Adler illustrates how collective trauma can lead to community resilience and action.   46:15 Taking Action: How You Can Help  In this chapter, Adler encourages listeners to engage with their communities and challenge misconceptions about homelessness.  

In a culture that celebrates competence and achievement, we often label people struggling to get things done as “lazy,” “disorganized,” or “irresponsible.”  But through her training and practice as a speech-language pathologist, Sucheta Kamath developed a passion for identifying people who struggle with executive function skills and has designed innovated ways to train them to better achieve their goals. In this episode, Sucheta describes her latest venture, ExQ, uses a cutting edge, “game-based” tools to systematically train fundamental cognitive skills related to focus, mindset, planning, organization, goal management, impulse control, emotional regulation, and self-awareness.    FMI on ExQ:  https://exqinfiniteknowhow.com/    Chapters:   02:05 Meet Sucheta Kamath  Sucheta Kamath shares her background and journey into the field of speech language pathology, highlighting her passion for helping others.  06:26 The Journey to the U.S.  Sucheta discusses her transition from India to the United States, detailing her experiences with cultural differences and the challenges of communication in a new environment.  10:03 A Formative Patient Experience  Sucheta recounts a significant case involving a young mother who suffered a stroke during childbirth, exploring the cultural perceptions of communication needs and independence.  12:59 Lessons from Mass General  Sucheta shares insights gained from treating diverse patients and the nuanced understanding of cognitive impairments.  16:32 Understanding Executive Function  Sucheta defines executive function as a set of skills used to adjust thoughts and actions to achieve personal goals, emphasizing its complexity beyond mere organization.  19:20 The Importance of Executive Function Skills  Delving deeper, Sucheta explains why executive function skills are crucial for success and how societal misconceptions undervalue these abilities in education.  24:48 Optimism and Agency  Sucheta discusses the intersection of optimism and personal agency, emphasizing the importance of persistence and self-efficacy in achieving fulfillment.  28:05 The Evolution of Education  Sucheta discusses the historical context of education, tracing its roots back to the era of child labor and how societal changes have influenced our current educational system.   33:44 Navigating Modern Challenges  The conversation shifts to the external and internal challenges facing today’s youth, including the impact of social media, climate change, and feelings of anxiety and loneliness.   39:09 The Role of Technology in Learning  Sucheta shares insights on the distractions posed by smartphones and social media in educational settings, advocating for limits on their use in schools. She highlights the need for students to build executive function skills to manage their digital interactions effectively.  44:01 Introducing EXQ: A New Curriculum  Sucheta introduces her innovative curriculum, EXQ, designed to enhance students’ executive function skills through personalized learning. She outlines the key components of the program, focusing on self-awareness, emotional regulation, and strategic thinking.  51:18 Building Skills for the Future  In this chapter, Sucheta elaborates on the specific skills she aims to instill in students through her curriculum, including problem-solving and resilience.   55:30 The Broader Impact of Executive Function  The discussion wraps up with Sucheta reflecting on the broader implications of developing executive function skills, such as empathy and moral responsibility. She encourages listeners to consider how these skills can foster a more compassionate and engaged society. 

Melissa Connelly had a rocky start to her high school career, being placed in her school’s truancy program after missing sixty days of classes in 8th grade.  Fortunately, Melissa found her guidance counselor, Mrs. Jeter, who changed her life.  With her help, Melissa turned her academic career around and through determined optimism, managed to earn college degrees and build a successful, high impact life.  She now oversees OneGoal, a national postsecondary access and success organization and she shares her inspiring story on this episode of Blue Sky.    Chapters:    02:11 Meet Melissa Connelly  Bill introduces Melissa Connelly, CEO of OneGoal, highlighting her journey as a first-generation college graduate and her commitment to helping underserved youth succeed in education.  03:21 A Challenging Upbringing  Melissa details the struggles she faced as a child of a single mother and her experiences in a truancy program that initially hindered her education.  05:39 The Turning Point  With the help of her social worker, Mrs. Jeter, Melissa learns to advocate for herself, transforming her academic trajectory from truancy to success in high school.  10:04 College Dreams Dashed  Melissa recounts her emotional experience of arriving at NYU only to realize she couldn’t afford the cab fare, leading to a difficult return home and reassessment of her college journey.  13:10 Introducing OneGoal  Melissa explains the mission of OneGoal, an organization dedicated to ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to achieve their post-secondary aspirations, addressing systemic barriers in education.  15:49 The Role of Mentorship  Melissa draws parallels between her experience with Mrs. Jeter and the mentorship provided by OneGoal, emphasizing the importance of caring adults in students’ lives.  18:02 How OneGoal Operates  Melissa describes how OneGoal identifies students in need of support and integrates its program into high schools to provide guidance and resources for post-secondary success.  21:02 Scaling the Impact  Melissa shares the scale of OneGoal’s impact, serving over 14,000 students in 300 schools, and discusses the organization’s efforts to train districts to provide similar support.  28:37 Equity in Education  Melissa discusses the need for equitable educational resources and support, emphasizing the importance of treating all students with the same care and attention afforded to athletes.  30:07 Measuring Success  Melissa shares the metrics of success for OneGoal, highlighting how their students outperform peers in graduation rates. She emphasizes the importance of both data and personal stories that keep her motivated in the challenging work of education.  35:03 Breaking Negative Labels  The conversation shifts to the impact of labels on students and how they can shape self-identity. Melissa advocates for removing negative stigmas and fostering a more supportive environment for all students.  36:53 Navigating the College Process  Melissa shares personal insights about her son’s college application journey, revealing the challenges he faces in a system that often overlooks individual identities. This discussion highlights the need for more personalized attention in education.  42:01 The Future of Education  Reflecting on the current state of education, Melissa emphasizes the need for systemic change to create equitable opportunities for all students.   46:06 Glimmers of Hope  Melissa introduces the concept of ‘glimmers’ as positive signs amidst challenges, encouraging a focus on hope and solutions in education.   50:16 Looking Ahead: A Vision for OneGoal  In a forward-looking discussion, Melissa envisions a future where OneGoal no longer needs to exist because the systemic issues in education have been addressed.  

Jamie Metzl is one of the world’s leading authorities on the implications of the intersecting AI, genetics, and biotechnology revolutions and how governments, corporations, organizations, and individuals can ride the wave of these unprecedented transformations to build their best possible futures. In this Blue Sky episode, he talks about the optimistic insights and opportunities he describes in his new book, Superconvergence.    Chapters: 01:11 Meet Jamie Metzl  Bill introduces Jamie Metzl, a technology and healthcare futurist, highlighting his impressive background and recent works. The discussion begins to explore the themes of Jamie’s latest book, ‘Superconvergence.’  02:44 The Nature of Optimism  Jamie shares his lifelong optimism and how his experiences, including his family’s history, have shaped his perspective.   06:07 The Power of Literacy  The conversation shifts to the remarkable increase in global literacy rates over the past century. Jamie emphasizes the significance of empowered minds and the potential for collaboration in addressing global challenges.  09:11 Understanding Biological Change  Jamie discusses the fluid nature of biology and the historical context of human intervention in biological systems.   13:10 Agricultural Innovations  The discussion focuses on the advancements in agricultural productivity, including the role of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).   17:03 The Miracle of COVID Vaccines  Jamie reflects on the rapid development of COVID vaccines, emphasizing the technological advancements that made it possible.   23:31 The Future of Precision Medicine  The conversation shifts to the promise of targeted and personalized medicine, which tailors treatments to individual patients. Jamie discusses the potential for precision healthcare to revolutionize treatment and improve outcomes.  29:18 Confronting Climate Change  In this chapter, Jamie Metzl discusses the pressing issue of climate change and its link to agriculture, highlighting how agricultural practices contribute significantly to carbon emissions.   30:04 Rethinking Agriculture  Metzl dives into the complexities of animal agriculture, revealing its massive environmental footprint and the ethical dilemmas it presents. He argues for a shift in perspective on how we produce and consume animal products, advocating for sustainable alternatives.  33:14 The Promise of Cultivated Meat  Exploring the emerging field of cell-cultured animal products, Metzl presents a vision for the future of meat that is both ethical and sustainable. He discusses how advancements in biotechnology could revolutionize our food systems while addressing environmental concerns.  36:04 Navigating Uncomfortable Innovations  In this segment, Metzl addresses the discomfort many feel about lab-grown meat and encourages listeners to research the realities of conventional animal farming.   39:27 Balancing Risks and Rewards  Metzl emphasizes the importance of weighing the potential risks and benefits of new technologies, including synthetic biology and genetic engineering. He highlights the need for careful consideration of the consequences while remaining optimistic about the innovations that can improve our lives.  44:40 Learning from History  Reflecting on the lessons from history, Metzl discusses how past technologies have shaped our present challenges, such as climate change. He urges a forward-thinking approach that embraces innovation while acknowledging its complexities.  46:02 Embracing the Future  In the closing chapter, Metzl encourages listeners to maintain an open mind about new technologies and their potential to solve pressing global issues. He stresses the importance of not getting locked into present anxieties, but rather looking ahead to the possibilities that lie in innovation. 

This is a special encore presentation of the very first episode of Blue Sky!  This conversation with David Gardner first aired in March of 2023 and is still one of our favorites.  David Gardner discusses a wide range of topics, from the relationship between optimism and entrepreneurship to developing an investment strategy with an eye towards your own positive vision for the future, to David’s outsized love for, of all things, board games!  Motley Fool: www.Fool.com    Chapters:   00:00 Welcome to Blue Sky Podcast  In this encore presentation of Blue Sky’s inaugural episode, host Bill Burke introduces the Blue Sky Podcast and his guest, David Gardner, co-founder of the Motley Fool. 02:07 The Power of Optimism in Entrepreneurship  David Gardner shares insights on the intrinsic link between optimism and entrepreneurship, emphasizing that successful ventures often begin with a hopeful vision. He discusses how optimism fuels creativity and persistence in business.  05:49 Investing with Purpose and Embracing Failure  David elaborates on the philosophy of making investments that reflect one’s vision for the future while discussing the inevitability of failure in both investing and entrepreneurship.   12:00 Lifelong Learning and Adaptability  The importance of lifelong learning is highlighted as David discusses how adaptability is crucial in a rapidly changing world. He shares personal anecdotes about his reading habits and the value of continuous education.  18:33 The Case for Conscious Capitalism  David passionately defends capitalism as a force for good while explaining the principles of conscious capitalism, emphasizing purpose over profit and the importance of serving all stakeholders.   30:04 Rational Optimism and Future Progress  The conversation delves into the concept of rational optimism, with David referencing historical progress in human society. He argues that despite current challenges, the trajectory of humanity is one of continual improvement.  34:03 The Future Is Here  David discusses the rapid advancements in technology and how they shape our present and future, encouraging listeners to embrace innovations like AI.  37:01 Reflections on the Past and Leadership  The discussion turns to the tendency to glorify the past while overlooking current advancements, with David sharing personal anecdotes.   43:07 The Power of Gratitude and The Motley Fool Foundation  David discusses the link between gratitude and optimism, highlighting how expressing gratitude can enhance happiness and foster positive relationships. He also introduces the Motley Fool Foundation, aimed at improving financial literacy in underserved populations.  49:30 The Joy of Board Games  The conversation takes a lighter turn as David shares his passion for board games and their role in family bonding.   56:17 The Roots of Optimism and Closing Thoughts  David reflects on the origins of his optimism, attributing it to both genetic factors and life experiences, and shares personal stories that shaped his outlook.  

Today, Lee Ellis is an acclaimed and accomplished author and leadership coach.  But in 1967, while flying a combat mission over North Vietnam, he was shot down, captured, and held as a prisoner of war for five-and-a-half years at the “Hanoi Hilton,” where his group of fellow prisoners included the late Senator John McCain.  and on this Blue Sky episode, Colonel Lee Ellis shares his incredible story and the valuable leadership and life lessons he learned under these trying circumstances, as well as the optimistic and hopeful mindset he’s used to get him through his toughest challenges.   Chapters: 02:11 Meet Lee Ellis  Lee Ellis shares his gratitude for being on the podcast and reflects on his long-standing connection with Bill Burke. They delve into Lee’s early life in Georgia and the pivotal moment that sparked his passion for flying.  05:03 The Vietnam Experience Begins  He vividly describes the moment he was shot down during his 53rd mission over North Vietnam and the immediate aftermath of his capture.  07:13 Life as a POW  Lee paints a picture of his harrowing life as a prisoner of war in the infamous Hanoi Hilton. He shares the challenges of living in cramped quarters with fellow POWs and the psychological toll of constant interrogation.  11:13 Finding Hope in Darkness  In this chapter, Lee discusses the importance of hope and optimism during his captivity.   15:03 The Power of Leadership  Lee reflects on the remarkable leadership displayed by senior officers in the POW camp. He emphasizes the significance of following a strong command structure and the impact it had on their morale and resilience.  21:10 Resilience and Adaptability  Lee shares stories of resilience and adaptability among the POWs, including their innovative methods of communication.   25:35 Viktor Frankl’s Influence Lee discusses how he came to read Viktor Frankl’s ‘Man’s Search for Meaning’ while imprisoned. He recounts a touching encounter with Frankl shortly after his release, reflecting on the profound impact of the book on his perspective.  27:51 The Power of Brotherhood  Lee shares how the bond between fellow POWs fostered a sense of community and optimism during their harrowing experience.   29:23 A Career Beyond the POW Experience  After returning home, Lee discusses his extensive career in the Air Force, highlighting his rise through the ranks and his passion for leadership training.   31:39 The Essence of Leadership  Lee delves into the significance of leadership, explaining his motivation to help others become better leaders. He introduces his model of confidence and humility, illustrating how these traits can inspire teams and foster a positive work environment.  35:00 Listening: The Key to Great Leadership  In this chapter, Lee emphasizes the importance of listening as a fundamental quality of effective leadership. He shares insights from his research, revealing that the ability to listen ranks highest among the traits people seek in their leaders.  38:23 Gratitude Through Adversity  Lee reflects on how his POW experience shaped his perspective on life and gratitude. He discusses the psychological resilience developed through hardship and how it influences his outlook on modern challenges.  43:39 Optimism and the Future  As Lee addresses the current state of the country, he expresses concerns about polarization and the impact of technology on personal connections. He shares his hope for a future where leaders prioritize respect and understanding across differences.  50:01 Lessons from Lee Ellis  In the closing segment, Lee summarizes key lessons from his life experiences, emphasizing belief in oneself, the importance of relationships, and faith in a higher power. His insights serve as a powerful reminder of the values that can guide us through adversity. 

Theodore (Ted) R. Johnson served twenty years in the United States Navy before becoming a columnist and author.  His latest book, If We Are Brave is a collection of essays on race in America, and in this Blue Sky conversation, Ted describes his pragmatic optimism and belief that the United States has in its founding ideals the path towards forming a “more perfect union.”  Ted’s personal story is remarkable, rising from humble beginnings to become an officer in the US Navy, White House Fellow, and speechwriter for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.    Chapters: 02:33 Meet Ted Johnson: A Journey from the South  Ted Johnson shares his upbringing in North Carolina, detailing the duality of growing up in a predominantly white suburb while attending a black church. His experiences shaped his worldview and influenced his educational and career choices.  06:10 From HBCU to the Navy  Ted discusses his decision to attend Hampton University and how it led him to a career in the Navy. He reflects on how a chance encounter with a Navy recruiter changed his life trajectory.  09:43 A Career in the Navy: Unexpected Turns  Ted recounts his 20-year journey in the Navy, highlighting key experiences that led him to become a speechwriter for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.   12:12 The Power of Writing: Ted’s Passion  Ted reveals his love for writing and how it became a central focus of his post-military career. He discusses his first book, ‘When the Stars Begin to Fall,’ and the themes of racism and optimism that permeate his work.  18:09 Why Ted Loves America  Ted explains his deep love for America, likening it to familial bonds. He reflects on the nation’s promise of democracy and equality, despite its historical shortcomings.  20:15 Reflections on Progress Since Trayvon Martin  Ted discusses the impact of Trayvon Martin’s death on his perspective and activism. He evaluates the progress made in addressing racism in America over the past twelve years, noting both advancements and ongoing challenges.  25:45 The Role of Organizations in Promoting Diversity  Ted shares his thoughts on how businesses can better reflect the communities they serve through diversity and inclusion efforts.   29:01 The Complexity of Affirmative Action  Ted and Bill explore the nuances of affirmative action, discussing how perceptions change based on personal experiences.   32:01 The Founding Ideals vs. Historical Flaws  The conversation shifts to the founding documents of the United States, emphasizing the need to separate the ideals from the flawed individuals who created them.   36:16 Introducing If We Are Brave  Ted discusses his latest book, If We Are Brave, which aims to present a national conversation on race through his unique perspective. He shares insights into the essays included and the themes of optimism and realism that permeate his work.  39:49 The Legacy of Optimism  Reflecting on his family’s history, Ted shares how the optimism of his ancestors inspires him to believe in a better future for America.   42:12 New America and the US at 250 Initiative  Ted introduces New America, a think tank focused on evolving policies to match societal changes, and discusses the US at 250 initiative. This project aims to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence by fostering dialogue and understanding across diverse communities.  45:30 The Impact of ‘If We Are Brave’  In the final segment, Ted expresses his hopes for readers of his book to gain a deeper understanding of race and democracy in America.  

Lee Woodruff and her husband Bob were, in many ways, on top of the world.  She was with her children at Walt Disney World while Bob was overseas in one of his first news gathering assignments after being named a co-anchor of ABC World News Tonight.  Everything changed in an instant when the vehicle Bob was traveling in hit a roadside bomb and he sustained a traumatic brain injury.  From there, Lee and his family faced the challenges of trauma, grief, and persevered thanks to what Lee describes as her “Four F’s”: Family, Friends, Funny, and Faith.”  Not long after Bob made an against-the-odds recovery, he and Lee founded the Bob Woodruff Foundation, which helps support veterans, servicemembers, and their families.      Chapters:   00:31 The Woodruff Story: Love and Triumph  Lee Woodruff shares her journey with her husband Bob, detailing their love story, career changes, and the sudden shift in their lives due to personal tragedy.  02:08 A Life of Accomplishments  Lee discusses her multifaceted career as a bestselling author, public speaker, and co-founder of the Bob Woodruff Foundation, which supports veterans with traumatic brain injuries.  04:42 The Impact of Tiananmen Square  Lee recounts Bob’s transformative experience reporting on the Tiananmen Square protests, which redirected his career from law to journalism.  08:31 The Shocking News  Lee describes the moment she received the devastating news of Bob’s injury while at Disney World, highlighting the emotional turmoil and urgency of the situation.  12:14 The Four F’s   Amidst chaos, Lee identifies the four pillars—family, friends, funny, and faith—that helped her navigate the challenges of Bob’s recovery.  13:16 The Birth of the Bob Woodruff Foundation  After Bob’s recovery, Lee explains the motivation behind founding the Bob Woodruff Foundation, aiming to support veterans and families affected by war injuries.  16:03 Finding Strength in Adversity  Lee reflects on how the couple’s response to adversity became a source of inspiration, emphasizing the importance of perspective in overcoming life’s challenges.  19:14 Bob’s Remarkable Recovery  Lee shares insights into Bob’s recovery journey, acknowledging the uniqueness of each brain injury experience while celebrating his progress.  22:05 Navigating Complicated Grief  Lee discusses the complexities of grief when a loved one survives but changes, highlighting the importance of allowing oneself to mourn what has been lost.  29:02 The Foundation’s Humble Beginnings  Lee Woodruff shares how the foundation started from a lack of expertise but evolved into a vital resource for veterans.  30:31 Innovative Solutions for Veterans  The discussion highlights the foundation’s innovative efforts in addressing infertility issues for veterans, showcasing their commitment to helping families in need.   32:06 Mobilizing Awareness Through Personal Experience  Lee reflects on how her husband’s injury brought national attention to veterans’ issues, emphasizing the importance of treating returning service members with dignity.   33:05 Navigating Caregiving and Grief  Lee discusses the complexities of caregiving and the unique challenges faced by families in crisis.   37:11 The Impact on Family: Growing Through Adversity  Lee reflects on how her children’s experiences during her husband’s recovery have shaped them into empathetic individuals.   40:49 Looking Ahead: New Ventures and Aspirations  As Lee shares her future aspirations, including a new novel and media consulting work, she reflects on the lessons learned from her journey.   42:17 Closing Thoughts: Embracing Life’s Challenges  In the final segment, Lee emphasizes the importance of playing the hand you’re dealt and finding silver linings in adversity. 

This is a special encore edition of an episode which first aired in March of 2023.  In the time since then, our guest has added yet another best-selling book to his list of titles, “How Leaders Learn.”     David Novak has had a remarkably successful career and one that was defined by his boundless enthusiasm and contagious sense of optimism.  He describes in this episode that he’s never come across a leader who wasn’t an optimist and reflects on why he thinks this is the case.  He also discusses the inspiring work he’s been doing since leaving his job at the top of Yum! Brands, where he was widely considered to be one of the top CEO’s in the world.    Chapters: 03:03 The Importance of Leadership David discusses why he believes leadership is a privilege and a responsibility, emphasizing the need for effective leaders who can inspire and motivate.   05:38 Formative Experiences: A Trailer Park Kid David shares his unique upbringing as a ‘trailer park kid,’ moving frequently and learning the importance of making friends. He reflects on how this experience shaped his understanding of people and the value of relationships in leadership.  09:40 Optimism in Leadership David explores the critical role of optimism in leadership, asserting that successful leaders must create hope and define reality for their teams. .  14:04 The Power of Recognition David shares his belief in the significance of recognizing and appreciating employees’ efforts.   19:00 Creating a Culture of Appreciation David discusses how he fostered a culture of recognition at Yum! Brands, highlighting the ripple effect of appreciation in leadership.   24:47 Overcoming Worry and Fear David addresses the common fears and anxieties that leaders face, sharing insights on how to overcome them.   26:54 The Lifelong Learning Mindset David discusses the value of being a lifelong learner and his ongoing commitment to self-improvement. He emphasizes that effective leaders combine confidence with humility, recognizing the importance of learning from others.  30:08 Embracing the Unknown Host Bill Burke shares a pivotal moment from his past with Ted Turner, emphasizing the importance of taking the first step into uncertainty.   31:52 David Novak Leadership: A Mission to Empower David discusses his mission to develop better leaders through the David Novak Leadership initiative, which offers programs for all ages.   35:11 Teaching Leadership in Schools In this chapter, David explains the challenges and successes of integrating leadership programs into school curriculums.  40:06 Hiring with Intention David reveals his unique approach to hiring, emphasizing the importance of character and how potential hires treat others.   45:00 The Birth of Cool Ranch Doritos David recounts the creative process behind the iconic Cool Ranch Doritos, illustrating how looking outside one’s category can lead to innovation.   49:57 Optimism and Unfinished Business In this chapter, David discusses the role of optimism in overcoming setbacks and pursuing unfinished business in life.