A Bit of Optimism

By: Simon Sinek
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  • Summary

  • The future is always bright…if you know where to look. Join me each week for A Bit of Optimism! I talk to inspiring people who teach me more about life, leadership and general interesting things.
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Career Success Economics Personal Development Personal Success
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Episodes
  • The Myth of the Perfect Meditator with podcaster Jay Shetty

    The Myth of the Perfect Meditator with podcaster Jay Shetty
    Mar 11 2025

    We turn to ancient philosophies to help us cope with the stress of modern life. But what if ancient wisdom could use some help from the modern world?

    Jay Shetty has made it his life’s work to make wisdom, peace, and purpose available to everyone. After living as a monk for 3 years, he left his monastic lifestyle with the hope of spreading what he learned to as many people as possible. Today, he’s the host of the On Purpose podcast, a #1 New York Times bestselling author, a life coach, and an entrepreneur who has helped millions of people find clarity in their lives.

    I was excited to talk with Jay about the balance between ancient practices and modern life. He shared with me the three biggest lessons he learned as a monk, what people get wrong about meditation, and how we can slow down and reflect amid the bustle of modern society.

    For more on Jay and his work, check out:

    On Purpose Live Tour

    jayshetty.me
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    50 mins
  • When Your 'Flaw' Becomes Your Edge with Comedian Hasan Minhaj

    When Your 'Flaw' Becomes Your Edge with Comedian Hasan Minhaj
    Mar 4 2025

    To recognize your own talent takes time and self-awareness. But to find the courage to pursue it? That often requires a spark of inspiration from someone else.

    For Hasan Minhaj, that spark came from an unexpected trio—a teacher, a roommate, and Napster. A former correspondent on The Daily Show, Hasan’s natural gift of gab allowed him to build a wide-ranging career which spans standup, acting, Netflix shows, and, most recently, his podcast, Hasan Minhaj Doesn’t Know.

    I had the pleasure of sitting down with Hasan to discuss his journey—why gifted people crave external validation, why kids are braver than adults, and where comedians truly rank in the artistic hierarchy.

    This… is A Bit of Optimism.

    For more on Hasan and his work check out:

    hasanminhaj.com
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    45 mins
  • Humble Leaders Lead Better Teams with Retired Navy SEAL Jocko Willink

    Humble Leaders Lead Better Teams with Retired Navy SEAL Jocko Willink
    Feb 25 2025

    Most people believe the only way to lead is to become the best at something. But what if great leadership means admitting you’re not the best at anything?

    Jocko Willink believes the secret to his greatest achievements come down to one thing – humility. A retired Navy SEAL commander, Jocko served 20 years in the U.S. military, leading one of the most decorated special operations units through combat in the Iraq War. A New York Times bestselling author, podcast host, and entrepreneur, he now teaches those in the civilian world the skills he learned from his time in the SEAL Teams.

    This was my first time meeting Jocko Willink, and we discussed why new leaders should never try to prove their own competence and the difference between tyrannical and open-minded leaders.

    This…is A Bit of Optimism.

    For more on Jocko and his work, check out:

    jocko.com
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    42 mins

What listeners say about A Bit of Optimism

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Profile Image for Joan Johnson

Insights to millennials

I wasn’t aware of Sara Kuburic before this podcast but am so glad I listened. My children are millennials and so much of what Sara says resonates with my understanding of their struggles. Very helpful to me to increase my awareness of what questions and tools can help. Thanks !

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Your worth it...

I was actively listening for the entire thing. It was captivating. A story filled with lessons and learning.

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Simon’s optimism is contagious

I was having a bit of a slump at work where I wasn’t happy coming into work. I started seeing videos of Simon discussing a plethora of topics. normally I don’t buy in, but something about his approach pierced through and struck home for me. Since listening to the podcast and buying his books, I’ve rediscovered Why I like going to work. Supporting my Team as their manager and helping them grow to achieve what they aspire to. While I don’t think he’ll see it, thank you Simon!

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Profile Image for Jerry Cullins

Great Series!

Love too many of the episodes to list. Even the episodes I did not love taught me. Great job Simon!

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Profile Image for Charles Butler

What an Amazing Episode!

I loved this episode! Simon is such an amazing conversationalist and listener! This episode shows and shares the power of listening, slowing down, and being present. I will be sharing this episode with many people! THANK YOU!

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Profile Image for Lori English Social Worker

Great Interesting Podcast .Brilliant!

I really LoveSimon as I listen to him in Ted and His Podcast is Amazing. I truly love his work is brilliant! Thank You !

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Profile Image for Bijou

Insightful!

I very much enjoy Simon and his guests. He has a wide array of topics to discuss and I appreciate his mindfulness while interviewing. I especially loved the episode with the TSA lady and the guy who did the voice of Goofy! So much fun!

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A Must In Such A Pessimistic World

I always love Simon's teachings, these podcasts are a powerful mix of individual/social improvement advices

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♡

This was delivered so wonderfully, great information and educating piece paired with a wonderful message.

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It will fill your heart (and brain)

This podcast fills me with hope, love, ideas and optimism. I just love Simon and his amazing guests. Thank you so much for such inspirational conversations.

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