The Optimist

In this episode of The Optimist, Philip Folsom explores the crisis of masculinity and leadership in modern society. Drawing from his extensive experience, Folsom reveals how the breakdown of traditional kinship systems has left men disconnected from purpose and authentic leadership. The conversation delves into shocking statistics about veteran suicide rates and examines why modern men struggle to find meaning in a culture of isolation. Folsom shares powerful insights about the difference between true leadership through service versus mere power, and offers practical wisdom for rebuilding authentic connections in today's disconnected world. Key topics covered: The critical importance of kinship systems and tribal belonging Why modern men remain "uninitiated" and stuck in adolescent mindsets The parallel between military training and psychological transformation Practical steps for developing authentic leadership and purpose The vital difference between service-based and power-based leadership Whether you're interested in leadership, personal development, or understanding modern masculinity, this episode provides essential insights for anyone seeking to build stronger connections and more meaningful communities.

"The harshest critic you'll ever face isn't on Twitter or in boardrooms – it's the voice in your own head." These words hung in the air of our recording studio last week. Adam Greenfeld, founder of Thesis and a leading voice in brain health, had just cut straight to the heart of something I'd been wrestling with. We'd planned to talk about optimization, supplements, and brain function – that's his specialty, after all. But somehow we'd wandered into deeper territory: the complex relationship we have with ourselves. Watch the full episode to learn how Adam has learned to be the compassionate, grounded, and inspiring founder he is today.

What if everything you knew about handling conflict was wrong? In this raw and honest conversation with elite performance coach Steve Cullen, we dive into my journey of completely transforming how I approach conflict, emotions, and modern masculinity. After a chance meeting at a Santa Monica coffee shop, Steve challenged me to try something radical: 30 days without engaging in any conflict. What started as a simple challenge turned into a complete rewiring of how I approach leadership, relationships, and what it means to be strong in 2024. 💡 Key Insights: 1. Why 99% of your "urgent" emotional reactions don't matter after 48 hours 2. How to turn conflict into connection 3. The modern definition of "provide and protect" 4. Why emotional intelligence is the new competitive advantage in business