Blue Sky

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.

Known in the science community primarily for her work as a geneticists and epidemiologist with a focus on oncology, Immaculata De Vivo seems like an unlikely person to co-Author a book called, "The Biology of Kindness." But the more she understood the role that behavior played in our wellbeing and that it can even have an impact on our DNA structures, the more she wanted to write her findings in a book that would be accessible to people outside the world of academia. In this episode, Immaculata describes why all scientists must be optimists, and why we should all keep open minds and strive to be lifelong learners who don't "fall in love with our hypotheses." She also describes the "five values" that are key to our wellbeing: kindness, optimism, forgiveness, gratitude, and happiness and offers practical advice and examples for how we might pursue this in our lives. Chapters: 02:05 Introducing Immaculata De Vivo Bill welcomes Immaculata De Vivo, a prominent figure in cancer epidemiology and co-author of 'The Biology of Kindness.' They discuss her impressive academic background and the intriguing intersection of her scientific research with the themes of kindness and positivity. 03:30 The Journey to Kindness Immaculata shares her unexpected journey from molecular biology to writing about kindness. 08:00 Optimism in Science Bill and Immaculata explore the necessity of optimism in scientific research, discussing how failures are a common part of the process. 09:19 Nature vs. Nurture The conversation shifts to the nature versus nurture debate, with Immaculata quoting, 'genes load the gun, the environment pulls the trigger.' 12:30 Understanding Telomeres This chapter highlights the biological mechanisms behind aging and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to mitigate accelerated telomere shortening. 15:00 The Science of Kindness Immaculata discusses the motivation behind her book, 'The Biology of Kindness,' and the importance of making scientific information accessible to a broader audience. 19:00 The Five Values of Well-Being The conversation transitions to the five fundamental values outlined in Immaculata's book: kindness, optimism, forgiveness, gratitude, and happiness. 24:00 Adaptability and Evolution Immaculata reflects on the concept of adaptability in evolution, challenging the notion of 'survival of the fittest.' She emphasizes that kindness and the ability to adapt are crucial for survival, drawing parallels to Darwin's observations. 25:15 The Impact of Nature and Music The discussion shifts to the benefits of nature and music on mental health and well-being. Immaculata shares insights from her colleagues on how these elements can lower stress and positively influence our biological markers. 30:00 Defining Optimism The hosts discuss a straightforward definition of optimism, emphasizing the belief that tomorrow can be better than today. 32:00 Optimism in Science and Personal Experience Immaculata shares her journey into the world of optimism through her experiences and meetings with experts. 35:00 The Genetic and Environmental Aspects of Optimism The conversation delves into the genetic and environmental influences on optimism, suggesting that while some may be predisposed to optimism, there are numerous ways to cultivate it. 39:00 Gratitude as a Tool for Optimism Immaculata discusses the power of gratitude in enhancing one's outlook on life, sharing personal anecdotes about practicing gratitude with her own daughter. 41:00 The Swimmer Experiment: A Lesson in Mindset The hosts explore Martin Seligman's swimmer experiment, illustrating how optimism and pessimism can influence performance under pressure. 46:00 Leaving with Hope Immaculata expresses her goal of leaving audiences feeling hopeful and inspired, regardless of the challenges discussed.

The husband and wife team of Mary Louise and Bruce Cohen have impressive backgrounds in law and government and for the past ten years, they've used their skills to advance the cause of skilled refugees around the world. The organization they co-founded, Talent Beyond Boundaries (TBB), identifies refugees with marketable skills and places them in a talent database that matches them with eager employers. The Cohens tackle their intimidating challenges with an inspiring sense of can-do optimism and their TBB's success is a reflection of these efforts. Chapters: 01:02 Meet the Cohens Bill introduces Mary Louise and Bruce Cohen, a husband and wife team dedicated to helping refugees through their organization, Talent Beyond Boundaries. 04:05 Transitioning to Nonprofit Work The Cohens discuss their transition from their legal careers to nonprofit work, driven by a desire to contribute more significantly to society, particularly in the realm of immigration reform. 08:10 Challenges Faced by Refugees Mary Louise outlines the various obstacles refugees encounter, such as lack of documentation and legal barriers, which hinder their ability to utilize their skills in new countries. 10:12 The Focus on Skilled Labor Pathways The Cohens explain how Talent Beyond Boundaries aims to create skilled labor pathways for refugees, emphasizing the importance of self-reliance over traditional humanitarian aid. 15:27 Employer Engagement and Support Bill and the Cohens discuss the growing support from private sector employers who are increasingly willing to underwrite costs associated with hiring refugees. 19:14 The Future of Refugee Talent in the U.S. Mary Louise and Bruce express optimism about the potential for the U.S. to recognize the value of refugee talent and the need for reform in immigration policies. 21:28 The Ripple Effects of Their Work The Cohens discuss the significant positive impacts of their work, including increased income for relocated families and the long-term benefits for future generations. 24:02 Changing Perceptions of Refugees They emphasize the importance of changing societal perceptions of refugees, highlighting their resilience and the skills they bring to their new communities. 27:10 Strategic Goals for the Future The conversation wraps up with a discussion of Talent Beyond Boundaries' strategic goals, focusing on expanding access to skilled immigration pathways for refugees. 30:00 Navigating Skilled Worker Pathways This chapter discusses Canada's skilled workers federal program and how refugees are increasingly applying independently. 32:44 Collaborative Efforts for Systemic Change Mary Louise and Bruce share insights on their long-term goal of transforming global immigration systems. They discuss the increasing involvement of international organizations like the UN and the International Organization for Migration in promoting complementary solutions to humanitarian resettlement. 36:47 The Future Vision of Talent Beyond Boundaries As Mary Louise and Bruce discuss their future roles, they articulate a vision where TBB's services are no longer needed due to open pathways for skilled refugees. 38:28 Connecting with Talent Beyond Boundaries The Cohens provide information on how potential employers and supporters can connect with TBB. They emphasize the importance of community engagement and the organization's charitable status across multiple countries. 40:21 Reflections on Progress and Optimism The episode wraps up with reflections on the technological advancements that support TBB's mission and the hopeful vision for the future of immigration pathways. The guests express gratitude for the opportunity to share their inspiring journey.

At a time in her life that should have been one of her happiest – just prior to her wedding – Christina Menkemeller developed frightening symptoms and was given a devastating diagnosis. In the wake of this news, Christina's fiancé Cardin never wavered in his commitment and the newlywed couple decided to take a yearlong trip that would change the course of their lives. After facing the understandable "why me" moments, Christina was buoyed by her faith and a sense of gratitude and decided to launch a nonprofit – called Being Positioned – to help others with conditions like hers go on their own dream trips. She describes this organization as a sort of "Make-A-Wish for adults" and it's already making a huge impact and helping her find purpose in her suffering. Chapters: 02:11 Meet Christina Menkemeller Bill welcomes Christina, his first cousin once removed, and expresses excitement about their family connection. She shares her journey leading up to a life-changing diagnosis that altered her path. 03:00 Facing a Life-Altering Diagnosis Christina recounts the frightening onset of her symptoms just before her wedding, leading to a diagnosis of a rare, debilitating disease. She discusses the emotional turmoil of receiving such news at a critical moment in her life. 07:01 The 'Why Me?' Moment Christina reflects on the devastating moment of her diagnosis and the fear of losing her hearing. She shares how her husband, Cardin, provided unwavering support during this challenging time. 10:24 A Bold Decision to Travel After grappling with Christina's diagnosis, Cardin suggests they quit their jobs and travel the world. This chapter explores the couple's decision-making process and the motivation behind their adventurous leap. 14:28 Transformative Travels Christina describes how their year-long trip changed her outlook on life, helping her regain confidence and joy. 19:08 A Newfound Courage Midway through their travels, she begins to shed her fears and embrace life more fully. 20:07 The Birth of a Nonprofit Upon returning home, Christina feels inspired to create a nonprofit, 'Being Positioned,' aimed at helping others with rare genetic disorders. She discusses the motivation behind this initiative and its mission to provide unforgettable travel experiences. 25:20 Empowering Others Through Travel Christina explains how 'Being Positioned' facilitates dream trips for adults facing life-altering health conditions. 30:13 The Power of Community She discusses the emotional support she receives from her partner and the importance of community in facing challenges. 31:41 Finding Purpose in Suffering In this chapter, Christina shares her journey of finding meaning in her suffering and how it has transformed her outlook on life. She emphasizes the significance of therapy and the importance of recognizing the impact of her struggles on others. 33:05 From Idea to Reality: Creating 'Being Positioned' Christina recounts her journey from a moment of inspiration to the creation of her ambitious nonprofit. She highlights the importance of optimism in entrepreneurship and how her experiences fueled her desire to help others. 37:01 Empathy Born from Experience This chapter explores how Christina's diagnosis has deepened her empathy for others facing similar struggles. She shares a poignant moment of connection with a fellow patient, illustrating the power of shared experiences. 40:41 Choosing Gratitude Amidst Hardship Christina offers valuable advice on cultivating gratitude during difficult times, emphasizing the importance of recognizing small moments of joy. She shares her personal practice of journaling gratitude and how it helps her navigate her challenges. 43:53 A Message of Hope and Inspiration Christina reflects on her journey and the strength she draws from her faith and gratitude. The conversation wraps up with a heartfelt acknowledgment of her resilience and the positive impact she aims to create through her work.

Dr. Liz Henry is highly-regarded professional in the fields of pediatrics and parenting and in this Blue Sky conversation, she shares her views on everything from technology, drugs and alcohol, whether it's tougher to be a kid today, and more. The content is relevant for kids, current parents, past parents, and even adults who might take this information and cut their own parents a little slack. Dr. Liz is optimistic, enthusiastic, and engaging and her advice is both helpful and practical, with much of it pulled from her best-selling book, You Are Not a Bad Parent: A Pediatrician's Guide to Reducing Conflict and Connecting with Your Teens. Chapters: 03:36 The Choice of Pediatrics Doctor Liz shares her path to pediatrics, highlighting her passion for preventive care and the importance of fostering relationships with families to promote children's well-being. 05:24 Navigating Parent-Child Relationships Doctor Liz discusses the delicate balance of being a friend and a parent, emphasizing the need for open communication and the ability to switch roles when necessary. 07:55 The Technology Debate Doctor Liz weighs in on the ongoing debate about technology use among children, advocating for a balanced approach that emphasizes education and role modeling. 12:51 Coddling and Parenting Styles Bill and Doctor Liz explore the trend of parents taking their children's side in disputes, discussing the importance of fostering independence and resilience in kids. 15:03 Redefining Good Parenting Doctor Liz reflects on her book's purpose to reassure parents that they are not 'bad parents,' encouraging them to embrace their concerns and focus on connection with their children. 18:00 Social Media's Impact on Parenting The discussion turns to the influence of social media on parenting, with Doctor Liz highlighting both its benefits and pitfalls in fostering unrealistic comparisons among parents. 21:09 The Youth Mental Health Crisis Doctor Liz discusses the alarming rise in youth mental health issues, attributing it to societal pressures and unprecedented global challenges that today's teens face. 24:02 Addressing the Mental Health Shortage The conversation touches on the shortage of mental health professionals and the need for accessible counseling services in schools to support youth effectively. 27:40 Conflict in Parent-Teen Relationships Doctor Liz reveals a surprising source of conflict between parents and teens, emphasizing the importance of understanding and communication to avoid unnecessary power struggles. 29:30 Bridging Divides: The Polarization Dilemma Doctor Liz discusses the increasing polarization in society and how it affects adult relationships. She emphasizes the importance of acknowledging differing viewpoints, even when they seem ridiculous, to foster understanding and connection. 32:03 Kids' Voices Matter: Shifting Perspectives Doctor Liz highlights the need to recognize children's contributions in society and the importance of listening to their perspectives. She argues that decisions should consider how they impact the next generation, rather than sidelining their voices. 35:12 The Importance of Listening to Kids The conversation shifts to the necessity of engaging with children about their experiences and concerns in today's world. Doctor Liz stresses that parents should actively seek their children's input, which can lead to valuable insights and understanding. 42:07 The Potential of the Next Generation Exploring the optimism surrounding today's youth, Doctor Liz reflects on their unique strengths and capabilities. 44:44 Closing Thoughts: Connecting Generations In the conclusion, Doctor Liz shares her insights on the importance of intergenerational communication and connection. She encourages parents to engage with their children genuinely, fostering relationships that benefit everyone involved.

Note for Encore Presentation: This episode originally dropped in April of 2023 and in the time since, you've no doubt heard Bill quote from Kevin – and his latest book – on numerous occasions. If you heard this one when it debuted last year, I do think it's worth another listen, and if this is your first time, we promise you're in for a treat. The legendary Kevin Kelly shares his optimistic views on technology and our collective future. As someone who was building online communities as early as the 1980's and helped create Wired magazine in 1993, Kevin has seen it all, and his fascinating insights and predictions on subjects including social media and artificial intelligence are based on years of hands-on experience. He and Bill also discuss some of their favorite excerpts from Kevin's great new book, Excellent Advice for Living: Wisdom I Wish I'd Known Earlier. As Seth Godin says, "One hundred years from now, when so much of the nonsense of our age is forgotten, people will still remember Kevin Kelly and his wisdom." Chapters: 02:28 The Power of Optimism Kevin shares his insights on why optimism is crucial for envisioning a better future, emphasizing that it is through optimism that we can imagine and create positive change. 07:17 Technology's Double-Edged Sword The conversation shifts to the challenges posed by technology, with Kevin discussing how many of today's problems stem from past technological solutions. 10:15 Addressing Climate Change Kevin emphasizes the need for technological solutions to tackle climate change, arguing that personal virtue alone is insufficient. 12:29 The Lifespan of Technology Kevin likens technology to babies, explaining that we can only fully understand its potential as it matures and evolves. 15:35 Social Media: An Ongoing Experiment Kevin discusses the complexities of social media's impact, suggesting that we are still in the early stages of understanding its effects. 21:13 AI: Underhyped or Overhyped? The conversation turns to AI, with Kevin arguing that AI is currently underhyped in terms of its future potential. He explains that while current AI tools are impressive, they are just the beginning of a much larger evolution in technology. 25:09 Excellent Advice for Living Kevin introduces his latest book, Excellent Advice for Living, sharing his motivation for compiling wisdom and insights into a concise format. 34:50 The Value of True Connections This chapter underscores the importance of cultivating deep relationships over superficial ones, advocating for quality over quantity. 36:36 Old-Fashioned Values in Modern Times The discussion shifts to the Amish lifestyle, highlighting their commitment to family meals and the balance of technology in their lives. Kevin reflects on how these traditional values can inform modern living. 38:16 Dancing in the Rain The metaphor of dancing in the rain serves as a reminder to embrace life's challenges and find joy in adversity. 40:04 The Power of Attention They emphasize the importance of self-awareness and the conscious allocation of attention in a distraction-filled world. 42:21 Embracing "Pronoia" The concept of "pronoia," the belief that the universe is conspiring to help us, is introduced as an antidote to negativity. They discuss how gratitude and generosity can enhance our lives and relationships. 46:00 Finding Common Ground The hosts discuss the importance of identifying shared values in conversations, especially in politically charged discussions. They suggest that focusing on agreement can help bridge divides and foster understanding. 48:31 Meeting Etiquette and Respect This chapter offers advice for running effective meetings, including the value of ending them early and ensuring contributions are meaningful. 50:00 The Engine of Optimism The episode concludes with a powerful analogy comparing optimism to an engine that drives progress.

Alexandra "Lexi" Hudson was raised by a philosopher father and a mother who is a recognized manners expert. As a result, she has spent much of her life contemplating what forms of behavior constitute "the good life," and lead to human flourishing. Following a disheartening stint working in government and seeing even spotty incidents of politeness masking an underlying incivility, she was driven to write her new book, which reaches back to great thinkers and writers throughout history to teach us timeless lessons. It is this work that forms the basis of this Blue Sky conversation. From her book description: "From classical philosophers like Epictetus, to great twentieth-century thinkers like Martin Luther King Jr., to her own experience working in the federal government during one of the most politically fraught eras in our nation's history, Hudson examines how civility—a respect for the personhood and dignity of others—transcends political disagreements. Respecting someone means valuing them enough to tell them when you think they are wrong." Order The Soul of Civility Chapters: 02:05 Meet Lexi Hudson Bill introduces his guest, Alexandra Hudson, a writer and speaker dedicated to civility and human flourishing. 04:50 The Disease of Division Lexi discusses the societal 'disease' of division and incivility, reflecting on her experiences in government. 06:54 Growing Up with Judy the Manners Lady Lexi shares her unique upbringing as the daughter of Judi the Manners Lady, highlighting the influence of her mother's kindness and emphasis on community. 08:00 Civility vs. Politeness Lexi distinguishes between civility and politeness, explaining that civility is rooted in recognizing others as moral equals. 11:40 The Importance of Disagreement Lexi emphasizes that true civility sometimes requires engaging in difficult conversations and disagreeing respectfully. 13:02 Global Trends in Incivility The conversation shifts to the global rise of incivility, with Lexi noting that the challenges faced in the U.S. are mirrored worldwide. 16:06 The Role of Social Media Lexi discusses the impact of social media on societal discourse, drawing parallels to historical concerns about new technologies. She highlights the need for mindfulness in digital interactions to preserve humanity. 22:33 Remembering the Human Element Lexi stresses the importance of recognizing the human side of social media interactions, which can often lead to dehumanization. She encourages listeners to maintain empathy and connection in digital communications. 27:20 Navigating Opinions in a Divided World Lexi shares insights on the pressure to have opinions on every issue, especially during crises. She advocates for the idea that it's okay to refrain from engaging in every argument, emphasizing the value of thoughtful consideration. 33:37 The Perils of Constant Distraction Drawing from Blaise Pascal's insights, Lexi addresses humanity's struggle with distraction and the inability to sit quietly in solitude. She argues that this constant need for stimulation detracts from self-awareness and authentic connections with others. 36:01 The Call for Solitude and Self-Reflection Lexi elaborates on Pascal's thoughts regarding the necessity of solitude for understanding oneself and forming meaningful relationships. She emphasizes that embracing quiet moments can lead to deeper connections and a more fulfilling life. 37:50 Envisioning a Civil Society In the concluding segment, Lexi paints a hopeful picture of a society transformed by the principles outlined in her book, advocating for deeper connections and understanding among individuals. She envisions a world where civility fosters warmth, intimacy, and genuine curiosity about one another.