

The Optimistic Outlook with John Eades
John Eades
Welcome to The Optimistic Outlook, a daily podcast with one idea to help you train your most important muscle — your brain — and apply it in real life. I’m John Eades, sharing insights from real leaders, modern psychology, and daily experiences to help you grow and lead with purpose.
Episodes
Mentioned books

5 snips
May 26, 2025 • 2min
What Real Leadership Looks Like
Leadership isn't about titles; it's about courage and sacrifice. A compelling story highlights how true leaders prioritize others and embrace humility. The discussion emphasizes that responsibility and curiosity are vital traits. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their leadership journeys and consider that the best leaders ask questions instead of providing all the answers. A noteworthy example from Army Captain Florent Groberg illustrates the essence of real leadership and the importance of making a positive impact in the present.

May 23, 2025 • 2min
If Only You Could Go Back in Time
If you’ve ever wished you could go back and do things differently, you’re not alone. In this episode, John shares a personal story, timeless wisdom from C.S. Lewis and a Chinese Proverb, and a powerful reminder: The past can't be changed, but the present is full of possibility. 📩 Subscribe to the Optimistic Outlook newsletter: https://optimisticoutlook.beehiiv.com/

May 22, 2025 • 2min
Champions Are Different
High performers don’t wait to feel motivated—they show up anyway. In this episode, John explores what separates champions from the rest and how the simple habit of acting differently than you feel can change everything. 📩 Subscribe to the Optimistic Outlook newsletter: https://optimisticoutlook.beehiiv.com/

May 21, 2025 • 2min
The Mountain Is Your Mind
Delve into the mind's toughest terrain, where internal battles shape our paths to success. Explore how self-talk influences your journey and discover strategies like positive affirmations to conquer your inner challenges. Recognizing personal worth becomes essential as you learn to navigate the mountain of your mind.

May 20, 2025 • 2min
Have the Conversation
Most difficult conversations don’t require more skill—they require more courage. In this episode, John shares a quote that might change how you think about confrontation, resentment, and the conversations you’ve been putting off. 📩 Subscribe to the Optimistic Outlook newsletter: https://optimisticoutlook.beehiiv.com/

May 19, 2025 • 2min
Your Habits Matter
Every habit starts as a single action. In this episode, John shares a powerful reminder about the link between habits, character, and destiny—and why today’s small step matters more than you think. 📩 Subscribe to the Optimistic Outlook newsletter: https://optimisticoutlook.beehiiv.com/

May 16, 2025 • 2min
Row Your Boat
Explore the idea that action is essential, even when conditions aren't perfect. Discover how to prioritize daily progress and embrace a proactive mindset. Learn that you are built to tackle challenges head-on and that today is the perfect day to start proving it. Remember, when the winds are calm, it's time to row your boat!

May 15, 2025 • 2min
Trees Don’t Hang with the Grass
You become the five people you spend the most time with—but what happens when the people around you hold you back? In today’s episode, I share a lesson a coach once gave me about trees, grass, and growth. If you want to rise, you have to change your proximity. Don’t settle for being surrounded by people who don’t push you to grow. 📰 Subscribe to the daily Optimistic Outlook newsletter: https://optimisticoutlook.beehiiv.com/

May 14, 2025 • 2min
You Don't Have to Use Them
Negativity is natural — but that doesn’t mean it’s helpful. In today’s episode, John Eades explains the science behind negativity bias, why positive people still have negative thoughts, and how the skill of replacement can transform your performance and relationships.

May 13, 2025 • 2min
You Owe the Opportunity
Entitlement takes a backseat as the discussion focuses on respecting and honoring every opportunity we encounter. Personal stories from coaching youth football reveal the importance of giving your best without expecting rewards. The narrative emphasizes hard work as the key to success, encouraging a proactive mindset in seizing chances. The message is clear: opportunities don’t owe us anything; instead, we owe them our dedication and effort.