Blue Sky

This is an encore presentation of the 50th episode of Blue Sky, when Bill was joined by someone who has completed more than 400 of them.  Bestselling author and TV/podcast host Kelly Corrigan describes to Bill the many things she’s learned in her life and career about optimism and how we all can benefit from life’s setbacks to become better people and forge stronger relationships.  Kelly reflects on lessons she learned from her parents and how facing her own cancer diagnosis and battle with the disease left her with a greater sense of empathy for others with similar hardships.  She also explains why she thinks intellectual humility is a key ingredient for an optimistic outlook and also that “there’s no feeling as good as being useful to someone.”  Chapters:    00:00 Introduction to Blue Sky Podcast Host Bill Burke introduces the 50th episode of the Blue Sky Podcast, highlighting its significance and the guest, Kelly Corrigan, an accomplished podcaster and author.   03:07 The Power of Lifelong Learning  Kelly Corrigan shares her insights on the importance of being a lifelong learner and how it fosters a mindset of curiosity and openness.   09:02 Optimism in Discovery The conversation delves into the optimistic belief that there is always more to learn and discover.   12:52 Finding Common Ground Bill and Kelly explore the idea of starting conversations with shared experiences rather than differences, highlighting the importance of empathy in discussions, especially in polarized environments.   16:17 Lessons from Kelly’s Dad  Kelly reflects on her father’s optimistic worldview and his unique way of greeting the day, which instilled a sense of joy and agency in her life. She shares how his perspective can inspire others to approach life with openness and positivity.  23:03 The Steadiness of Kelly’s Mom Transitioning to her mother’s influence, Kelly describes her mother’s calm and competent nature during challenging times, particularly during her cancer diagnosis.  30:00 The Beauty of Brokenness Kelly discusses her perspective that everyone is broken by the age of 50, and how this brokenness can lead to deeper connections with others. She emphasizes that meaningful connections often arise from shared hardships, transforming superficial interactions into profound conversations.  34:11 The Power of Shared Experiences The conversation shifts to how shared challenges can break down barriers and foster genuine connections among people.   37:57 Finding Purpose in Pain  Kelly shares the story of her cousin who became a source of support after losing her son, illustrating how personal tragedy can lead to a greater sense of purpose and empathy. The discussion touches on the transformative power of helping others through their struggles.  39:01 The Journey to Wellbeing Kelly introduces her PBS show focused on understanding wellbeing and the various factors that contribute to it, including mood, connection, and spirituality.   45:06 The Future of Mental Health Treatment The discussion highlights advancements in mental health treatment, emphasizing the potential for precision medicine to revolutionize how we approach mental health issues. Kelly and Bill express optimism about the ongoing research and the possibility of more effective, individualized treatments.  49:06 Embracing Uncertainty in Science Kelly reflects on her experiences interviewing leading scientists, revealing that even experts often disagree on key issues in mental health research. This segment emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and maturity in interpreting scientific findings.

Don Carpenter has spent the bulk of his career working on youth development.  Today he’s executive director of the Rural Futures Fund, an organization focused on kids in rural settings, working to help them close what he calls the “aspirations gap,” between them and their peers in more affluent settings.      Chapters: 01:11 Meet Don Carpenter Bill introduces Don Carpenter, Executive Director of the Rural Futures Fund, an organization dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for youth in rural areas.   03:03 The Trekker Model Don discusses the Trekker youth development mentoring model, which connects caring adults with students in a cohort-based approach. This innovative model emphasizes outdoor experiences to foster relationships and personal growth over six years.  06:18 Focusing on Rural Youth The conversation shifts to the unique challenges faced by youth in rural settings, particularly regarding educational aspirations.   07:32 The Birth of the Rural Futures Fund Don explains the evolution of the Rural Futures Fund and its mission to support youth development initiatives. He shares how the fund aims to tackle the aspirations gap, particularly during the critical 8th to 9th-grade transition.  10:09 Creating the Aspirations Incubator Don elaborates on the Aspirations Incubator, a project designed to empower rural communities by providing resources and support for youth development.   12:15 Measuring Success The discussion turns to the metrics used to evaluate the success of the Aspirations Incubator. Don outlines the focus on social-emotional development, academic achievement, and post-secondary aspirations among participating youth.  22:35 Results and Learnings Don shares the impressive results from the first cohort of the Aspirations Incubator, highlighting significant improvements in students’ sense of belonging and post-secondary enrollment rates.   29:09 Understanding Summer Melt In this chapter, Don discusses the national phenomenon of summer melt, where a significant percentage of students fail to enroll in college after graduation. He highlights how their program achieved a remarkable 78% enrollment rate and the ongoing efforts to address this issue for future cohorts.  30:29 Reflections on Results Don reflects on the outcomes of the program, sharing his initial expectations and the unexpected support provided to organizational leadership during the pandemic.   33:39 The Impact of the Pandemic This chapter delves into how the pandemic influenced the program’s operations and the unique support provided to students during this challenging time. Don shares heartwarming examples of how program managers maintained connections and provided essential services to families.  36:37 Adapting to New Challenges Don explains the fundamental differences in their model compared to traditional youth-serving organizations, especially in terms of maintaining relationships with students.   39:02 Looking Ahead: The Rural Youth Institute Don introduces the Rural Youth Institute, designed to build on the successes of the previous program. He outlines its pillars and the intention to expand its reach beyond Maine to support rural youth nationwide.  44:04 The Importance of Community Connection Don highlights the significance of fostering a sense of belonging among rural youth and the potential impact on their communities. He discusses the challenges of brain drain and how their program aims to empower young people to return and contribute to their hometowns.  46:01 A Legacy of Inspiration In this closing chapter, Don shares the personal fulfillment he derives from his work, including officiating weddings for program alumni. The conversation wraps up with a reflection on the importance of optimism and community support in shaping the future of rural youth. 

When Olivia Clarke was first diagnosed with cancer and began treatment, she looked for ways to keep her spirits up as the grueling treatments and symptoms became increasingly difficult.  Gradually, she noticed moments – in waiting rooms, treatment areas, with strangers – that, when looked at with a certain lens, could be seen as downright funny.  This inspired her to launch “Humor Beats Cancer,” and online community that encourages other cancer patients to share their own moments of levity to soften the blows of this terrible disease.  Olivia’s attitude of empathy, hope, and optimism is infectious and comes through loud and clear in this Blue Sky conversation.    Chapters:   01:11 Meet Olivia ClarkeOlivia Clarke, founder of Humor Beats Cancer, shares her journey from journalism to creating a supportive community for cancer patients through humor and storytelling.  02:11 Olivia’s Cancer Journey Begins Olivia recounts her unexpected breast cancer diagnosis in 2015 during a routine checkup, detailing the rapid progression of her treatment and the emotional toll it took.  04:01 The Return of Cancer After a period of being cancer-free, Olivia faces a stage four metastatic breast cancer diagnosis, leading to ongoing treatments and a search for coping mechanisms.  04:41 Finding Humor in Hardship Amidst her struggles, Olivia discovers that humor can be a powerful coping tool, leading her to create a platform for sharing funny cancer stories.  06:03 The Birth of Humor Beats Cancer In 2017, Olivia officially launches Humor Beats Cancer, utilizing social media to connect with others and share light-hearted stories that resonate with cancer patients.  07:21 The Impact of Humor Olivia discusses how humor helps patients cope with their experiences, fostering connections and reducing feelings of isolation through shared laughter.  10:51 Creating Humorous Care Packages Olivia explains the concept of humorous care packages designed to uplift cancer patients, filled with funny items and treats that defy traditional expectations.  12:59 The Power of Shared Stories Through shared experiences, Olivia highlights how humor can transform the cancer narrative, helping individuals feel less alone and more connected.  17:01 Involvement of Caregivers Olivia discusses the importance of including caregivers in her community, recognizing their challenges and the humor that can arise from their experiences.  18:49 Resilience and Optimism Olivia shares her personal strategies for staying positive amidst adversity, emphasizing the importance of a supportive network and a hopeful mindset.  24:21 Workplace Support During Illness Olivia reflects on the role of her supportive workplace during her cancer journey, highlighting the importance of understanding employers in navigating treatment.  29:02 The Four Fs of Support Olivia discusses the essential elements that helped her and Lee Woodruff navigate the challenges of cancer: friends, family, funny, and faith.   31:05 Navigating Information Overload Olivia shares her approach to cancer research, highlighting the importance of trusting medical professionals over diving into overwhelming information.   34:14 The Humor in Bad Advice The conversation shifts to the often ridiculous suggestions cancer patients receive, illustrating the awkwardness of well-meaning but misguided advice.   36:52 Empathy in Illness: The Struggle to Connect Olivia discusses the challenges of communication during illness, including the tendency for people to share their own experiences instead of listening.   39:05 Advice for New Patients Offering wisdom for those newly diagnosed, Olivia encourages them to document their questions and take things step by step.  

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 InfluenceLee 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. 

Tim Fitzpatrick learned about healthcare the hard way, as a long-term inpatient undergoing a battery of surgeries to address injuries sustained while serving as a pilot in the US Navy.  After recovering and leaving the service, Tim was an equities trader for a bank, and after learning more about new media technologies, then meeting a physician who was pioneering virtual reality in healthcare, Tim found his passion, and left his job to co-found IKONA, where he now serves as CEO.  This innovative and inspiring company is using virtual reality tools to help kidney patients understand the sometimes scary challenges faced when moving to a home dialysis setting.      Chapters:    01:11 Meet Tim Fitzpatrick Tim Fitzpatrick, co-founder and CEO of IKONA, shares his personal journey into healthcare, shaped by his experiences as a long-term hospital inpatient. His background in the Navy and finance laid the groundwork for his passion for healthcare innovation.  02:22 The Impact of Personal Experience Tim delves into his hospital experiences, discussing the empathy he developed for patients and the insights he gained about the healthcare system. He reflects on how these experiences motivated him to pursue a career in healthcare technology.  07:03 From Navy to Trading Transitioning from the Navy to a trading career, Tim explains how his military training prepared him for high-pressure environments. He shares how his time in finance helped him recognize what truly drives him, ultimately leading him back to healthcare.  11:57 The Birth of IKONA Tim recounts the origins of IKONA Health, highlighting the innovative work of his cofounders in using virtual reality to enhance patient education.   16:31 Innovating Patient Experience As Tim discusses the evolution of IKONA’s technology, he emphasizes the importance of improving patient experiences in healthcare settings. He explains how virtual reality can help patients prepare for surgeries and manage anxiety.  21:09 The Role of VR in Kidney Care Tim elaborates on how IKONA’s VR solutions are tailored for patients with kidney failure, particularly in educating them about home dialysis options. He discusses the emotional and instructional benefits of VR in helping patients make informed decisions.  29:03 The Future of Home Healthcare Tim discusses the shift towards home-based healthcare solutions, emphasizing the importance of reducing hospital visits and costs. He highlights regulatory changes and initiatives that support this transition, making healthcare more accessible, especially in rural areas.  32:30 Understanding IKONA’s Customer Base The conversation shifts to IKONA target customers, primarily large dialysis organizations and nephrology specialists.   35:20 Innovative Training Solutions in Healthcare Tim elaborates on the innovative training methods IKONA is developing, focusing on emotional and instructional learning for patients. He shares the vision for creating accessible training opportunities that enhance patient care and safety.  38:40 Exploring VR’s Potential in Pain Management The discussion highlights the transformative potential of VR in pain management, allowing patients to manage pain through mindfulness techniques. Tim shares insights on how this technology could reduce reliance on opioids and improve patient outcomes.  41:40 The Future of Surgical Training with VR Tim discusses the application of VR in surgical training, emphasizing its role in providing safe, repeatable practice for surgeons. He explains how VR can enhance proficiency and safety in high-risk procedures, revolutionizing medical training.  44:30 An Optimistic Vision for Healthcare’s Future In the closing segment, Tim expresses his optimism about the future of healthcare technology and the positive impact of VR. He shares his belief in the potential of these innovations to enhance patient care and transform the healthcare landscape. 

Raul Espinoza’s father had many talents, but an equal number of demons.  He struggled with addiction and was abusive to Raul’s mother as well as to him and his siblings.  At the early age of ten, Raul decided he would take a different path and vowed not to drink and to treat women with respect.  He has stayed true to this pledge and now, at the age of 38, Raul Espinoza is the executive director and driving force behind All Kings, a peer-led support organization that empowers men who have been – or may soon be impacted by the criminal justice system.  This is an inspiring conversation about how this man overcame extreme challenges to make a huge difference in the lives of others with similar backgrounds.    All Kings: www.allkings.org  NY Times feature: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/01/style/all-kings-mens-work-retreat-masculinity.html    Episode Chapters: 02:06 Raul Espinoza’s Personal Journey Raul shares his personal story of growing up in a challenging environment marked by domestic violence, substance abuse, and finding resilience and release through the arts.  06:04 Turning Pain into Purpose Raul discusses how his childhood experiences led him to channel his emotions into art, setting the foundation for his journey towards personal development and helping others.  10:08 Entering the World of Personal Development Raul shares his initial resistance to personal development work, his transformative experience, and his decision to help others navigate their own traumas and challenges.  14:00 Journey to All Kings Raul recounts his global travels, working with marginalized communities, and finding his calling at All Kings, a nonprofit focusing on men’s mental health, trauma, and leadership development.  18:04 All Kings: A Peer-Led Men’s Group Exploration of All Kings’ mission to address the crisis of manhood in America, providing a safe space for men impacted by the justice system and at-risk youth to process trauma and develop leadership skills.  23:24 Impact of Incarceration on Men Discussion on the disproportionate incarceration rates of men of color in America, the challenges faced by those reentering society, and the cycle of trauma perpetuated by the current system.  29:34 Unpacking Stories at All Kings Discover how All Kings uses retreats to revisit personal narratives, emotions, and beliefs, creating a safe space for men to unpack and share their stories while incorporating somatic healing and experiential learning.  33:29 Peer-Led Support and Emotional Healing Explore the power of peer-led support in men’s groups, where individuals process trauma and emotions, unlocking each other’s experiences and fostering emotional healing through shared storytelling and vulnerability.  37:23 Body, Community, Equality: Pillars of Transformation Delve into how All Kings integrates body awareness, community support, and equality principles into their program, empowering men to explore emotional intelligence, release negative energy, and cultivate a supportive environment for personal growth.  43:54 Impact and Optimism Discover the outcomes and impact of All Kings’ work in transforming lives and communities, fueled by stories of personal growth, leadership development, and the ripple effects of empowerment, highlighting the optimism and hope that drives Raul Espinosa and his team forward. 

Note for this encore presentation: While much of our discussion centered on Professor Pinker’s views on how the world continues to improve while we have trouble believing it, he also goes into details about his concerns about the state of public discourse on college campuses. He and I conducted this interview in June of 2023, several months before the conflict between Hamas and Israel began, and subsequent demonstrations caused huge disruptions on college campuses around the country, including Pinker’s own Harvard University.   He’s since been very active in shaping his school’s policy on open speech and debate and whether or not universities should take public positions on political issues that don’t directly relate to those schools.   It’s interesting now to listen to what he had to say about his campus’s climate, before it became an issue of press coverage and public debate.  In this wide-ranging conversation, renowned author and professor Steven Pinker describes that while he resists being called an “optimist,” as the label doesn’t necessarily suit his temperament, his deep dives into historical data have convinced him that the world is indeed getting better and has been on a steady trajectory since the days of the Enlightenment, the subject of one of his many acclaimed books.  Dr. Pinker also describes why he believes so many intellectuals resist acknowledging that the world is making progress; and adds, ironically, that self-described “progressives” often have the toughest time with this.  He also shares his concerns about the policing of speech on college campuses – including Harvard – and the deleterious effects this has on students’ wellbeing.      Chapters:   03:30 The World Getting Better Steven Pinker discusses the concept of human progress and how our cognitive abilities allow us to overcome negative impulses. He explains the importance of acknowledging progress despite inherent biases towards negativity.  11:00 Optimism vs. Pessimism Explore Steven Pinker’s view on optimism and pessimism, highlighting how his perspective is rooted in data and empirical evidence rather than personal temperament. Understand the societal perception of optimism and pessimism in intellectual circles.  12:07 Glorifying the Past Delve into the tendency to glorify the past and criticize the present. Learn about the societal inclination to equate pessimism with moral seriousness and the impact of historical perspectives on current discourse.  23:01 Criticism and Academic Freedom Steven Pinker addresses concerns about academic freedom and the culture of censorship and intolerance in higher education. Understand the importance of open discourse and challenging dominant orthodoxies for societal progress.  27:33 Campus Climate and Mental Health Pinker describes how campus orientations and cultural shifts impact young people’s mental health, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation.  31:53 Positive Historical Trends Discussing surprising positive historical trends related to violence, environmental improvements, and changing perceptions of war and heroism.  36:18 War and Peaceful Service Exploring the shift from glorifying war to promoting peaceful service as a means to cultivate heroic and altruistic qualities in individuals.  38:50 Spreading Optimism and Data-Driven Progress Pinker offers advice on spreading awareness of positive trends, emphasizing data-driven optimism, acknowledging challenges, and the role of human agency in creating a better world.  40:31 Reflections on War and Optimism Dr. Pinker reflects on the historical glorification of war and the potential for mandatory peaceful service, along with the importance of data-driven optimism in shaping perspectives. 

Dr. Hasan Merali came to admire toddlers when he began working with kids in a hospital emergency department.  Seeing their remarkable resilience, optimism, and courage in the face of adversity led him to think about ways we as adults can learn from these young people.  The result is his great book, “Sleep Well, Take Risks, Squish the Peas: Secrets from the Science of Toddlers for a Happier, More Successful Way of Life.”  On this fun Blue Sky episode, Dr. Merali shares many of these secrets, from being good at saying no, finishing meals when full, taking risks, and sleeping well with consistent bedtime rituals.     Order Dr. Merali's new book here. Chapters: 03:06 Pediatrics and Inspiration from Children Dr. Merali shares his journey into pediatrics, inspired by the resilience and optimism of children facing medical challenges, highlighting the valuable life lessons adults can learn from toddlers’ approach to life.  05:02 Toddlers’ Worldview and Happiness Exploration of toddlers’ world filled with wonder, empathy, and honesty, emphasizing the lessons adults can learn from toddlers about kindness, generosity, and genuine happiness.  09:03 Toddler Teachings on Kindness and Happiness Exploration of how toddlers’ innate kindness and generosity contribute to their happiness, with insights on how adults can experience deeper happiness through acts of kindness and sharing.  10:20 Eating Habits: Lessons from Toddlers Insights into toddlers’ natural ability to self-regulate food intake based on hunger cues, contrasting with adult tendencies to eat for reasons beyond hunger, highlighting the benefits of mindful eating.  12:03 Resilience and Trust in Toddlers Exploration of toddlers’ resilience and trust in others, exemplified by their natural empathy and trusting nature, emphasizing the positive impact of these traits on building relationships and facing challenges.  15:30 The Humor and Reading Cliffs Discussion on the decline in laughter and reading habits with age, exploring the benefits of humor and reading for maintaining optimism and cognitive health throughout life.  17:14 Lifelong Learning and Deep Reading Emphasis on the importance of lifelong learning and deep reading, inspired by toddlers’ curiosity and love for books, highlighting the cognitive benefits of reading and its impact on mental well-being.  19:39 Positive Self-Talk and Bedtime Routine Insights into the power of positive self-talk inspired by toddlers’ natural self-affirmations, along with the benefits of a structured bedtime routine for promoting better sleep and mental well-being in adults.  28:09 The Power of Saying No Learn about the benefits of saying no and how toddlers can teach us the importance of setting boundaries and managing our commitments. Explore the concept of exerting control over our schedules and the value of being assertive in decision-making.  31:36 Risk-Taking and Quick Decision Making Explore how toddlers excel in making quick decisions and taking risks guided by learning, relationships, and empathy. Understand the benefits of embracing risk-taking and making swift decisions in personal and professional growth.  33:05 Confidence and Optimism Discover how toddlers exhibit high levels of confidence and optimism even in the face of setbacks. Learn about the importance of maintaining confidence and optimism in adulthood for personal development and success.  40:45 Applying Toddler Behavior in Work Life Understand how toddler behavior can positively impact teamwork and communication in the workplace. Explore the benefits of incorporating play, direct communication, and teamwork inspired by toddler attributes into professional settings.  44:07 Parenting and Embracing Toddlerhood Reflect on the challenges and rewards of parenting toddlers, emphasizing the importance of appreciating and learning from toddler behavior. Consider the value of embracing the toddler spirit in both parenting and personal development. 

Teju Ravilochan was born in the United States, just two years after his parents came to this country from their native India.  His parents went on to careers in medicine, but only after help from several corners of their adopted community.  Growing up, they taught these lessons to their son, and today Teju is the founder of GatherFor, a non-profit dedicated to the belief that “in community, we have everything we need.”  In this Blue Sky conversation, Teju describes the remarkable and brave work that he and his colleagues are doing, particularly in challenging housing development in Brooklyn, NY.  Teju describes how nearly every tactic and practice they pursue is nothing new, but rather reaching back to old, in some cases ancestral, concepts of community and looking out for our neighbors.  Teju’s optimism is as infectious as his work his inspiring.   Learn more about GatherFor: https://gatherfor.org/   Chapters: 01:12 Teju Ravolochan’s Journey with GatherFor Teju Ravilochan shares his background and the founding of GatherFor, a non-profit organization that organizes neighbors in Brownsville, Brooklyn to support each other unconditionally.  02:23 Teju’s Family and Heritage Teju discusses his family’s immigration journey from India to the United States, highlighting the support and kindness they received from their community, shaping his belief in the importance of community over individualism.  06:00 The American Dream and Community Support Teju reflects on the American Dream, emphasizing the role of community support in achieving success and questioning the societal focus on financial wealth over communal bonds.  15:06 Undervaluing Community in Modern Society Teju discusses the loneliness epidemic and the undervaluing of community in modern society, contrasting it with historical practices of communal living and support.  27:01 Building GatherFor in Brownsville Teju shares the early days of Gather 4, starting with 8 people and growing through word-of-mouth. The focus is on storytelling as a tool to connect neighbors and build relationships.  33:13 Rebuilding Trust in Public Housing Teju recounts the challenges faced in engaging with the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) to address long-standing repair issues. The chapter highlights the transformative impact of community organizing and a unique approach to building trust with NYCHA.  46:26 Transforming Community Culture through a Block Party The story of how a block party organized by Glenmore Proud residents led to repairing over 1,600 issues in 60 days. The event not only celebrated the repairs but also fostered a sense of community and trust among neighbors.  48:06 Lessons in Community Organizing and Engagement Insights into Teju’s approach to community engagement, including the importance of building trust and relationships before scaling initiatives. The chapter emphasizes the power of storytelling and shared experiences in fostering community connections. 

Note for this encore presentation: We’re bringing back this conversation in honor of Immigrant Heritage Month in the United States.  Anh and her family left their home country in the most dramatic of circumstances and in the nearly 50 years since they came to this country, their accomplishments have been extraordinary.   The family of Anh Vu Sawyer were among the small number of South Vietnamese who successfully fled Saigon in the final days and hours of the Vietnam War.  After describing this harrowing ordeal, Anh explains how these events inspired her to lead a life of inspiring service and social entrepreneurship here in the United States.   Chapters:   01:05 Personal History and Gratitude Anh Vu Sawyer’s personal history in South Vietnam, her gratitude for surviving dramatic times, and her desire to give back.  03:17 Father’s Escape and Family Reunion The dramatic story of Ahn’s father escaping the Hanoi Hilton, reuniting with the family, and the emotional reunion during chaotic times.  11:14 Escape from Saigon The harrowing escape from Saigon, the challenges faced, and the miraculous moments that led to their survival and rescue.  19:28 Evacuation and Miracle on USS Midway Details of the evacuation process, the challenges faced on USS Midway, and the miraculous events that ensured their safe passage to the US.  23:39 Reflections on Survival and American Generosity Reflecting on the survival, the generosity of Americans during the evacuation, and the impact of the experience on Anh’s life.  25:22 Life After Arrival in the US Anh’s journey after arriving in the US, settling in Oak Brook, Illinois, and her career at People Express Airlines  28:06 Making Impact Through Career Choices Anh reflects on the impact of People Express Airlines and her career choices aimed at making a positive impact, especially for refugees. She discusses her work with the Southeast Asian Coalition and the joy of helping thousands access housing, jobs, and education.  32:31 Gratitude for Freedom and Helping Others Anh Vu Sawyer emphasizes the importance of freedom and the ability to help others, highlighting the luxury of being able to make a difference. She shares insights on the power of giving and the impact it has on changing the world.  36:00 Lifelong Learning and Giving Back Anh Vu Sawyer discusses her pursuit of education, including getting her MBA in her sixties, and shares her philosophy on using personal gifts to benefit others. She emphasizes the fulfillment and purpose that come from giving back.  39:00 Social Entrepreneurship with Refugees Anh Vu Sawyer details her latest project, a clothing company that employs refugees to create handcrafted labels, providing economic development opportunities. She explains the mission-driven approach of the business and its potential for creating positive change.  44:00 Inspiration and Legacy of Giving The conversation wraps up with reflections on Anh Vu Sawyer’s inspiring journey, her impact on others, and the legacy she continues to build through her dedication to helping refugees. Her story serves as a testament to the power of generosity and making a difference. 

Kate Bean’s life has been marked by a series of radical changes and transformations.  After founding and running a successful non-profit that launched and oversaw charter schools while leading a national movement towards personalized education Kate decided to make a change.  She retired from her position, tricked out a minivan and headed out so see the country, inspired by Gandhi’s advice that, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”  This remarkable journey led her to take on a social impact academic fellowship where she created another new entity, iChangeCourse.  In addition to writing a book about her life and travels, she consults individuals and speaks to groups about managing and embracing change.  Today, Kate says that, “life is a journey, change is the vehicle, and the destination is now.”  Chapters: 02:09 Early Life and Upbringing Kate Bean shares her upbringing in a small Mormon town and her journey of self-discovery, including her realization of her sexual orientation while attending Brigham Young University.  04:57 Venturing into Education Entrepreneurship Kate discusses her entrepreneurial journey in founding Aveson, a charter school company focused on personalized education, driven by her daughter’s unique learning needs and a passion for transforming education.  09:20 Transitioning from Aveson Kate Bean reflects on her decision to step down as CEO of Aveson after 13 years, influenced by personal health challenges and a desire to explore new paths beyond her successful venture in education.  13:45 Finding Purpose and Change Kate Bean’s journey post-Aveson focuses on self-discovery, service, and embracing change, leading her to embark on a transformative van trip focused on serving others and capturing “extraordinary ordinary moments.”  16:14 Planning the Van Trip Kate’s van trip is characterized by spontaneity, service, and a commitment to capturing meaningful moments along the way, showcasing her shift from a control-oriented mindset to embracing change and service.  26:09 Kate’s Journey of Service Kate Bean describes her journey of service and exploration without a set plan, relying on spontaneity and a desire to serve others. She shares how she navigated her travels, stayed at various locations, and engaged in volunteer work.   35:04 Embracing Differences Through Service Kate reflects on her experiences traveling to more conservative areas in the US South, highlighting the kindness and hospitality she encountered. Through service and connecting with people, she emphasizes the common values that unite us despite political differences.  39:51 The Notice Framework for Navigating Change Kate Bean introduces the NOTICE Framework, an acronym to guide individuals through change. She emphasizes the power of choice in the present moment and the importance of embracing extraordinary moments while navigating life’s journey.  43:14 iChange Course Initiative Kate Bean discusses her iChange Course initiative aimed at helping individuals transition to their next life chapter with dignity and optimism. She offers coaching services, workshops, and consulting to support people in reimagining their futures.  46:41 Finding Gratitude and Embracing Change Kate shares her philosophy on change as a vehicle for growth and the importance of noticing ordinary moments in life. She expresses gratitude for her journey and looks forward to the impact she can make in the future. 

John Daniel has led a remarkable and inspiring life, marked by challenges that he’s met with grit and resilience.  John’s alcoholic father struggled to find work but his loving mom made sure her nine children always had the support they needed.  John emerged from his childhood to become a successful banking executive with a successful marriage and thriving children.  But following his own diagnosis of a serious heart ailment, his wife developed cancer and passed away.  A few short years later, John faced a major heart procedure and ultimately, a full transplant.  With the support of his second wife, Leslie, John persevered, got back on his feet, and resumed his career.  Now retired from banking, John and Leslie have co-founded Bluff City Pickleball, a community center in their hometown of Memphis, Tennessee designed to bring people together from all walks of life and economic backgrounds.      Chapters: 02:09 Childhood Challenges and Resilience John describes his challenging childhood in a working-class neighborhood with nine siblings and a father battling alcoholism and says these early experiences shaped his grit and resilience, setting the foundation for his future successes.  06:52 “Advantages of Disadvantages” Explore the concept of finding advantages in disadvantages as discussed by John Daniel and Malcolm Gladwell. Understand how facing challenges and adversity can lead to personal growth and strength, as highlighted in John’s own experiences.  13:40 Personal Loss and Resilience John describes his personal journey of love, loss, and resilience, from his marriage to his wife’s battle with cancer and eventual passing.   16:00 Health Challenges and Heart Transplant Discussion of John’s health challenges, including his heart ailment and the eventual need for a heart transplant.   23:35 Transplant Procedure and Recovery John describes his journey through the heart transplant procedure and the challenging recovery process.   26:37 Recovery from LVAD Surgery John discusses the challenging recovery process after his LVAD surgery, including infections, transfusions, and the support he received from his wife during a low point.  29:26 Setting Goals for Recovery John shares how setting a vision of returning to work and accomplishing a 50-mile bike ride post-transplant helped him stay motivated and focused during his recovery.  34:31 Founding Bluff City Pickleball John shares the inspiration behind starting Bluff City Pickleball, a community center aimed at fostering social connections and physical activity, emphasizing inclusivity and social impact.  42:15 Ancestral Minds Book John discusses his upcoming book ‘Ancestral Minds,’ focusing on human nature and evolutionary psychology, offering insights for effective leadership based on understanding innate behaviors.  49:44 Words of Encouragement John offers words of encouragement for those facing tough times, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive and optimistic individuals to maintain hope and resilience. 

Pete Davis was a young undergraduate college student when he took a class from Professor Robert Putnam.  By this time, Dr. Putnam was an academic celebrity, based largely on the huge success of his seminal work on social capital, Bowling Alone.  In the time since, Pete has made advocating for more civic engagement the focus of his work and in addition to writing the book, Dedicated: The Case for Commitment in An Age of Infinite Browsing, he and his sister have produced a documentary feature film, provocatively titled, Join or Die.  The film describes the social unraveling that has taken place in the US for the past 50 years, with an emphasis on the work of Robert Putnam, who is featured prominently.  While this subject matter can be discouraging, Pete Davis is an optimist and he provides many helpful ideas about how we can pull ourselves out of this place.  Pete is enthusiastic and engaging and he brought this energy to this Blue Sky episode, giving us plenty to think about, and many reasons to remain hopeful.    Chapters:  03:41 Conversation with Pete Davis Begins The interview with Pete Davis on community engagement, his background, and the importance of reconnecting with others for a stronger society.  10:11 Civic Decline and Rejuvenation Exploration of the decline in civic engagement over the years and the potential for rejuvenating community connections to improve various aspects of society.  12:06 Impact of Community Decline Discussion on the negative effects of the decline in community engagement, highlighting statistics and the importance of addressing these deficiencies.  18:17 Community and HealthFocus on the link between community engagement and health, emphasizing the significance of social capital and its impact on overall well-being.  22:14 Designing for Community Exploration of how various sectors, from architecture to education, can be designed to promote community connections and enhance social capital.  24:41 Joining Clubs and Community Efforts Encouragement to join clubs and community initiatives, discussing the diversity of clubs and the importance of fostering community spirit in modern times.  29:26 Community Bonding through Potlucks and Parades Exploration of the essence of community gatherings like potlucks, parades, and Halloween, where individuals come together to celebrate and contribute  31:01 The Impact of the Pandemic on Community Discussion of how the pandemic disrupted community routines, leading to increased awareness of the importance of community  35:47 Technology’s Role in Building Real Community Connections Pete talks about the role of technology in fostering genuine relationships within communities, distinguishing between meaningful connections and superficial online interactions that may hinder true community building.  42:08 Community and Extremism Discussion of the relationship between lack of community and vulnerability to extremist ideologies  49:07 Robert Putnam’s Community Legacy Pete Davis reflects on Robert Putnam’s contributions to popularizing the concept of social capital and community 

On the “Well…Adjusting” podcast, author, actor, and funny lady Robin Hopkins is joined each episode by people who are struggling with a wide range of issues, from how to manage stress, set some boundaries, find a new apartment, and save a dime or two.  On occasion, she’ll invite a “guest expert” to join to add their own insights and advice.  For this episode, the person with the challenge is Robin’s wife Mary.  And since she battles with negative – bordering on catastrophic – thinking, Robin decided to invite the founder of The Optimism Institute and host of Blue Sky to join in with his advice. So, “Founder Bill” did just that, and since Mary, Robin, and Stephanie, the show’s producer, expressed concerns we know that many listeners share, we thought it a good idea to drop this fun and insightful episode into the Blue Sky feed.  Tune in to hear what everyone had to say - and decide for yourself if Bill was of any help!    Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to “Well…Adjusting” Podcast Bill Burke introduces the collaboration with Well…Adjusting podcast  02:24 Exploring Negative Thinking with Robin and Mary Robin and Mary discuss their struggles with negative thinking and catastrophizing, setting the stage for a deep dive into their fears and concerns.  07:03 The Hot Dog Story and Catastrophic Thinking Robin shares a humorous anecdote about the ‘hot dog story’ as a metaphor for moments of catastrophic thinking.  15:08 Fear of the Future and Historical Perspectives The conversation delves into fears about the future, drawing parallels to historical events and contemplating the impact of past experiences on present anxieties.  23:20 Expert Advice on Optimism and Influence Blue Sky host and founder of The Optimism Institute Bill Burke joins the discussion, offering insights on optimism, historical perspectives, and the concept of circles of influence and concern.  31:00 Generational Optimism and Social Influence The discussion explores the concept of generational optimism and the potential for positive change when supporting and empowering the younger generation.  34:02 Navigating Social Media Influence and Personal Responsibility Insights are shared on the influence of social media, the importance of personal responsibility in curating online content consumption, and the potential for positive shifts in mindset.  38:05 Finding Optimism in Small Actions and Community Impact The discussion emphasizes the significance of finding optimism in small actions, community impact, and the power of collective efforts in fostering a more positive outlook.  40:02 Acknowledgments and Call to Action The episode wraps up with acknowledgments, a call to action for listeners to engage with the content further, and a reminder of the importance of seeking professional help when needed. 

Note for this encore presentation: At the time that we celebrated our one year/50th episode in March of 2024, this episode was our most listened to.  We bring it back now as part of The Optimism Institute’s recognition of National Mental Health Month and hope Blue Sky fans will enjoy and benefit from this wise, kind, and experienced professor.    Like most neuroscientists, until a little more than thirty years ago, Dr. Richard “Richie'' researched and studied things that go wrong with the brain.  But then, in 1992 he visited the Dalai Lama, who challenged him instead to work on understanding what happens to our brains when we practice kindness and compassion.  This conversation changed the trajectory of Richie’s life and career and he will share much of what he’s worked on and learned in the thirty-plus years since.  Among the topics covered in this conversation are the toxicity of distraction, neuroplasticity and our ability to reshape our brains, the value of gratitude and appreciation, and how simply being more aware of our surroundings can change our mindsets for the better.    Chapters:  01:01 Dr. Richard (“Richie”) Davidson: A Pioneer in Neuroscience An overview of Doctor Richard Davidson’s background and contributions to the field of neuroscience.  02:11 Establishing the Center For Healthy Minds Doctor Davidson discusses the establishment and mission of the Center For Healthy Minds  04:00 Influence of the Dalai Lama The pivotal moment when the Dalai Lama inspired Richie Davidson to focus on compassion in neuroscience.  08:00 Neuroplasticity: Shaping the Brain Exploration of neuroplasticity and how intentional mental exercises can reshape the brain.  11:25 Appreciation and Gratitude Discussion of appreciation and gratitude in daily life, highlighting the impact of small acts of kindness on well-being.  15:30 Mental Exercises for Well-Being Dr. Davidson shares simple mental exercises that can be integrated into daily routines to promote well-being and mindfulness.  19:04 Impact of Distraction on Well-Being Insights into how distraction affects mental well-being, emphasizing the importance of being present and attentive in daily activities.  21:10 Noticing the Positives Explore the importance of training ourselves to focus on the positives around us.  21:52 Challenges to Mental Well-Being Delve into the four challenges to mental flourishing outlined by Richie Davidson: distractibility, loneliness, negative self-talk and depression, and loss of meaning and purpose.   23:53 Loneliness and Technology Explore the significant impact of loneliness on mental well-being, likened to the health risks of smoking.   26:15 Technology and Human Connection Reflect on the isolation that technology can bring despite its intended purpose of connecting people.   35:01 Well-Being and Social Change Understand the interconnectedness of personal well-being and effective social change.   38:19 Mindfulness and Awareness Differentiate between mindfulness and awareness in promoting well-being.   46:33 Practical Steps for Well-Being Discover practical steps, like the 30-day appreciation challenge, to enhance well-being and cultivate positive habits.   50:57 Optimism and Flourishing Reflect on the evolution of personal growth and well-being, highlighting the importance of patience and gradual change.  

Nearly 45 years ago, Billy Starr lost his mother, an uncle, and a cousin, all to cancer.  Looking for a purpose and outlet for his grief, he and a small circle of friends decided to take a long bike ride across most of the state of Massachusetts, while raising money for cancer research.  That first “event,” in 1980, raised just over $10,000.   But that was just beginning, and through the years since, Billy has stayed with this idea, growing it into the Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC), which is now the country’s largest sports fundraiser by far, with proceeds going to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute.  The money raised in this summer’s 2024 edition will put the PMC past the $1 billion mark in total dollars raised – an incredible accomplishment.   In this Blue Sky episode, Billy shares reflections on his motivation and how working on the PMC “revealed skills” he didn’t realize he had. You’ll also learn more about this event – the riders, the volunteers, and funders – who make it so special for everyone involved.  Billy Starr approaches his work with infectious drive and optimism and this all comes through in his conversation with Bill.    Chapters: 01:18 The History of Athletic Fundraising  The discussion shifts to the evolution of athletic fundraising events like runathons, walkathons, and bikeathons, highlighting the origin and growth of these events and their impact on charitable causes.  02:47 Pan-Mass Challenge Origins The focus is on the Pan Mass Challenge (PMC), its founder Billy Starr, and the motivation behind starting this bikeathon for cancer research, tracing back to the personal losses that inspired the event’s creation.  04:29 Billy Starr’s Journey and Early PMC Years Billy Starr shares insights into his early experiences with fundraising for cancer research, the challenges faced during the initial PMC events, and the gradual growth of the event over the years.  15:22 PMC Fundraising Milestones The significant fundraising achievements of the PMC, including the journey towards raising $1 billion for Dana Farber, are highlighted, showcasing the impact of collective efforts over the years.  21:11 Partnership with Dana Farber The longstanding relationship between the PMC and Dana Farber, the significance of supporting cancer research and treatment, and the impact of fundraising efforts on advancing medical programs are discussed, highlighting the mutual benefits of the collaboration.  29:01 Creating Connections with Families at Dana Farber Discover how the Pan Mass Challenge introduces families to the event and riders, showing support and solidarity with families undergoing cancer treatment at Dana Farber.  34:05 Emotional Impact at Mile 85 Experience the emotional power of Mile 85 at the Pan Mass Challenge, where images of children fighting cancer serve as a poignant reminder of the cause and the progress made in cancer research.  46:11 Unity and Good Intentions at PMC Explore the sense of unity and shared purpose at the Pan Mass Challenge. 

Squash – the game, not the vegetable – has long been seen as a “country club” sport.  But Barrett Takesian is on a mission to transform the sport’s reputation while building community in his adopted hometown of Portland, Maine.  For the past 11 years, Barrett has worked to create and build Portland Community Squash, a unique gathering place for people of all ages, backgrounds, and income levels.  While squash is in the organization’s name, and the sport at the center of much of its activity, Portland Community Squash (PCS) includes numerous non-school hours programs, as well as opportunities for adults and families to gather, share, and learn about each other while building a stronger community.  As Portland’s demographics continue to change (PCS now has members from 27 different countries with 17 different native languages) Barrett’s organization continues to meet their constituents’ needs and is not only thriving, but in the process of starting new construction to increase both in physical size and community impact. 

Daniel Stone explains that today’s politically-polarized environment began taking shape way back in the 1980’s.  Today, he says, we have an increase in what’s been described as “affective biases,” in which people move from disagreeing with the ideas of another, to disliking the person themselves, for having these beliefs.  It’s a dangerous trend, he believes, and among other things, Daniel Stone recommends an “Anti-Polarization Manhattan Project,” and idea that many Blue Sky listeners might want to get behind!  Links: Order Daniel's book, Undue Hate

One of our most popular episodes of 2023 is back, with this encore presentation, just in time for Earth Day!  Dan Reicher’s interest in and advocacy for environmental protection and clean energy began when he was a child and has continued throughout his life.  In addition to teaching at Stanford University, has served three U.S. presidents, testified before the U.S. Congress more than 50 times, led the launch of Google’s pathbreaking climate and clean energy work, oversaw a $1.2 billion annual clean energy R&D budget as U.S. Assistant Secretary of Energy, and co-founded the nation’s first investment firm focused exclusively on renewable energy project finance.  In this Blue Sky episode, Dan provides his take on potential climate change solutions; from hydro, solar, wind, and nuclear power, to conservation and reforestation.  He explains that while he’s realistic about the massive amount of work and resources that will be required to solve the climate crisis, he’s optimistic about our ability to get it done. 

Marko Cheseto left his home in Kenya to travel all the way to, of all places, Anchorage, Alaska, where he attended college on a track and field scholarship.  A gifted runner, he achieved many accolades before experiencing a tragedy that resulted in the amputation of both of his legs, below his knees.  He says that as he lay in his hospital bed, he thought, “it was my feet that brought me to America, and now I’ve lost my feet.”  In this Blue Sky episode, Marko tells the remarkable story of how he turned his life around in that same bed, deciding that rather than giving up, he’d spend the rest of his life serving as an example and inspiring others.  And in the years since his amputation surgery he has done just that, and he currently holds the record for the fastest marathon ever by a double amputee, with a time 2:35:55 in the 2021 New York City Marathon! 

Nathalie Laidler-Kylander has a long and distinguished career working in the non-profit, social entrepreneurship and international development sectors.  Since 2021 she has been CEO of Trickle Up, an organization that partners with women in extreme poverty to build economic opportunity and drive inclusion.  On this Blue Sky episode, Nathalie describes the remarkable work of Trickle Up while sharing her optimism for the future of women around the world and her infectious enthusiasm about the power of social entrepreneurship and value and impact of international philanthropic efforts. 

This episode is a master class on sticking with it, no matter what. From our friend Dan Harris on the Ten Percent Happier podcast, we’re joined by Bryan Stevenson, who is a public interest lawyer who has dedicated his career to helping the poor, the incarcerated, and the condemned. He is the author of the bestselling memoir “Just Mercy,” which was made into a feature film, and the subject of an HBO documentary, “True Justice.” In this episode they talk about:  • Bryan’s “non-negotiables,” including exercise, music, and mindfulness  • The necessity of “proximity”  • How he manages fear, anger, and hatred  • How he cultivates hope and faith in the face of overwhelming odds  More on the Ten Percent Happier podcast:   A skeptical journalist, Dan Harris had a panic attack on live TV that sent him on a journey that led him to try something he otherwise wouldn't have considered: meditation. He went on to write the best-selling book, 10% Happier. The show features interviews with top scientists, celebrities and experts in the field of mindfulness. And Dan's approach is seemingly modest, but secretly radical: happiness is a skill you can train, just like working your bicep in the gym.   Listen to more Ten Percent Happier with Dan Harris 

One of our most popular – and powerful episodes of 2023 is back, with this encore presentation.  In the Blue Sky conversation, John Valverde describes the impactful work of the organization he leads, YouthBuild USA,  and also shares his own inspiring story of persevering through 16 years in prison to found two non-profits and now lead a third; YouthBuild USA.  John explains how he brings his own lived experience to his leadership role of an organization that helps young people at their own crossroads change the trajectory of their life.  Learn More: https://youthbuild.org

Gill Hasson has a wide range of interests and areas of study, exemplified by the fact that she has authored thirty-six different books.  In this Blue Sky episode, she shares her thoughts and advice on everything from the pros and cons of social media, to how to effectively parent at a time when so many kids are struggling, and how we can better deal with people we find to be difficult. (A preview – she says they’re not going to change so this challenge is on us!)

For the 50th episode of Blue Sky, Bill is joined by someone who has completed more than 400 of them.  Bestselling author and TV/podcast host Kelly Corrigan describes to Bill the many things she’s learned in her life and career about optimism and how we all can benefit from life’s setbacks to become better people and forge stronger relationships.  Kelly reflects on lessons she learned from her parents and how facing her own cancer diagnosis and battle with the disease left her with a greater sense of empathy for others with similar hardships.  She also explains why she thinks intellectual humility is a key ingredient for an optimistic outlook and also that “there’s not feeling as good as being useful to someone.” Links: Listen to the Kelly Corrigan Wonders podcast Watch Tell Me More with Kelly Corrigan on PBS

Alison Jones Webb has spent her career studying and working in the public health sector.  Several years ago, a combination of the opioid crisis and a realization that her own extended family had battled various substance use disorders, she decided to turn her attention here and began deeper work into addiction and recovery.  One outgrowth of these efforts is her book, Recovery Allies: How to Support Addiction Recovery and Build Recovery-Friendly Communities.  On this Blue Sky episode, Alison shares surprising and encouraging insights into addiction recovery – which she says is the norm, not the exception – and explains the vital role we can all play by being allies to people battling this difficult disease.  

In this episode, Bert describes how he and his brother grew from a challenging upbringing to create Life is Good, the original positive outlook brand.  He explains why he believes that optimism is a superpower and suggests that in all of history, there’s never been a successful pessimist. Links: Browse Life Is Good here: https://www.lifeisgood.com/

Chris Anderson was inspired by the growth of TED once they expanded from being simply a conference company to adding the concept of offering their talks free to the world over the internet.   He’s now calling on us all to “reclaim the internet” and use it as a force for spreading less hate and division and more kindness and generosity.  His new book, Infectious Generosity, lays out clearly the reasons why generosity is good for the world – as well as for us as individuals – then details a plan by which this movement can spread virally.  Chris’s views on these subjects are aligned perfectly with the work of The Optimism institute and he shares them with great enthusiasm in this uplifting and inspiring episode of Blue Sky. Links: Order Infectious Generosity: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/059372755X Learn more about TED: https://www.ted.com/

Dr. Kenneth (Ken) Harris is an experienced practitioner of holistic medicine and author of the book, Synchronicity.  In this Blue Sky conversation, Ken describes the subtle but important difference he sees between coincidence and synchronicity and tells why he thinks it’s important for all of us to connect actively with others, leaving ourselves open to the mysterious and positive connections that can be made between people.  As someone who was once clinically dead following a heart attack and had an “out of body” experience, Ken describes his appreciation for life and how fleeting our time here is.  His enthusiasm and positivity are infectious and the ideas and anecdotes he shares here are thought-provoking and uplifting. Links: Order Dr. Ken's book, Synchronicity

When Ilze Thielmann learned of the steady stream of refugees and asylum seekers entering New York City, she felt compelled to get involved and help.  This led her to connect with, volunteer for, and ultimately take over leadership of an organization called Team TLC.  Here, Ilze and her colleagues greet asylum seekers – many of whom have been sent to New York from the state of Texas – and help them find food, clothing, and shelter.  The organization has grown to now have more than 1,400 names on its active roster of volunteers and they have assisted more than 60,000 asylum seekers as they arrived at New York’s Port Authority.  Over time, the organization expanded to include “The Little Shop of Kindness,” designed to be a store loaded with clothing and accessories offered free of charge to immigrant customers.  And today, Team TLC is also offering legal and other professional services to their constituents.  The story that Ilze tells in this Blue Sky conversation is fascinating and her optimistic outlook and desire to serve others is an inspiration.  Links: Learn more about Team TLC: https://www.ttlcnyc.org

The life of Jonathan Conyers is full of junctures where it appears he’s not going to make it.  Both of his parents battled addiction to crack cocaine, yet somehow managed to instill in their son a desire to be educated and advance in the world.  As he grows, Jonathan is surrounded by teachers and mentors who take special interest in him and encourage him to reach high, including “Dico,” his transgender debate coach, whose support ultimately alters the trajectory of his life – and Jonathan changes Dico’s in return.  In this Blue Sky conversation, Jonathan details some of the highlights of his remarkable memoir, his reasons for writing it, and what continues to motivate him today.

KM DiColandrea says he works with young people because he can’t imagine doing anything else.  In high school, he developed a love for speech and debate which has led to a passion for teaching and coaching young people to develop these skills.  We first met KM DiColandrea, aka “DiCo,” in our Blue Sky episode with Jonathan Conyers.  There, we heard of him helping turn around Jonathan’s life at Frederick Douglass High School.  With Jonathan’s help, DiCo went on to co-found the Brooklyn Debate League in 2019 and is currently developing speech and debate opportunities for kids throughout greater New York and across the country.  In this episode he describes why he thinks speech and debate programs are so good for developing young people and how he hopes that someday they will be included in schools’ core curriculum.

Sara Guillermo’s family immigrated to the United States when she was a small child.  She grew up with an appreciation for this country and a desire to serve that expressed itself as early as the 1st grade, when she ran to be her “classroom organizer.”  From there, she has held several leadership positions and now serves as the CEO of IGNITE, an organization dedicated to train girls and young women with the skills they need to understand how their government works and arm them with the skills they need to actively participate, up to and including running for office.  At a time when so many of us are disillusioned with government and politics, the enthusiasm that Sara brings to her work, and the impressive results that IGNITE has had, is sure to inspire. Links: Learn more about IGNITE: https://ignitenational.org/

The family of Anh Vu Sawyer were among the small number of South Vietnamese who successfully fled Saigon in the final days and hours of the Vietnam War.  After describing this harrowing ordeal, Anh explains how these events inspired her to lead a life of inspiring service and social entrepreneurship here in the United States. 

In the late 1990’s, John Wood was living a great life.  As a senior executive at Microsoft, his job took him to exotic places and he was experiencing an ideal post-MBA experience.  His life would forever change on a getaway vacation in Nepal, when he had an experience that led him to quit his job and become a social entrepreneur.  Since then, John Wood has created two successful non-profits and has written several books, including Leaving Microsoft to Change the World.  In this Blue Sky episode, John explains the business discipline and drive that he brings to his work, which he says he simply could not do if he weren’t an optimist. Links: Order John's book, Leaving Microsoft to Change the World

David Bornstein has a long history in journalism and founded the Solutions Journalism Network out of his belief that the hard work that people all over the world do to solve tough problems is history’s most under-reported story.  His organization trains journalists around the country on how to pursue and write stories not just about our problems, but also on the encouraging solutions emerging to solve them.  David’s vision is both logical and inspiring, and his efforts are paying off with a growing network of journalists and outlets embracing his philosophy and practice.

Matt Ridley’s seminal book, The Rational Optimist, has inspired many since its publication in 2010 and greatly influenced the creation of The Optimism Institute.  In this far-ranging discussion, Matt will describe an early education that he said was steeped in pessimism but how later in life he found that much of what he’d been taught was simply not true.  This led him to set on a nearly evangelical quest to spread the word that interaction and trade between people and nations, including the free exchange of ideas, will continue to set us on an inexorable path towards increasing prosperity. Links: Order Matt's book The Rational Optimist

In her new book, The Power of a Few Kind Words, author Tracey Gates tells the story of how she decided to write a handwritten note of appreciation to someone every day, for an entire year.  365 letters later, she’s concluded that telling people how much you appreciate them can do as much for your own state of mind as it does for the recipients, and she’s encouraging her readers to take up the practice themselves.  While she doesn’t expect anyone else to do this every day, just starting the practice of writing to people and letting them know you were thinking about them and are thankful that they are in your life will do wonders for your mindset, giving feelings of warmth, hope, and optimism. Links: Order Tracey's book The Power of a Few Kind Words

Ritah Kabanyoro knows what it’s like to go to bed hungry.  Growing up in a household of 20 people, she was used to receiving just one meal a day, until fainting spells alerted others to the malnutrition she was suffering.  After being placed in a private school – and improving her diet, she thrived and today leads Uganda’s chapter of Action Against Hunger.  Ritah’s home country is the largest recipient of refugees in all of Africa.  They come primarily for Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and when they arrive in Uganda, they are welcomed with relief programs up to and including the gift of land and instruction of farming techniques.  The Ugandan government, working with agencies like Ritah's, is striving to help these refugees become self-sufficient, contributing members of their society.  Ritah Kabanyoro’s work is inspiring and her optimistic take on the future of her country is infectious.

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. Links: Order Kevin's book, When We Walk By Learn more about Miracle Messages

Dr. Howard Koh’s story is inspiring. His immigrant parents raised him to be grateful for and contribute to their adopted country.  And he has certainly made his contributions, serving first as a practicing oncologist, then moving into the field of public health.  After treating too many patients who were dying from cancers caused by tobacco use, Howard Koh turned his attention to tobacco cessation, and his determined efforts there resulted in great success.  After serving in the Massachusetts state government, Dr. Koh was named as Assistant Secretary for Health for HHS in the Obama administration, and in that role found himself in the middle of the White House’s efforts to overhaul the US healthcare system, as well as other ambitious initiatives.  Today, Howard teaches and researches at Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health and is turning much of his considerable talent, energy, and optimistic mindset towards impacting another vexing challenge in our society, homelessness.  In this episode, he discusses this work, as well as his research and writing on the role of spirituality in our well-being and his passion for music and baseball.  

Adam Mastroianni says he likes to “study how people perceive and misperceive their social worlds, from the person sitting across the table to the whole country buzzing around them.”  In this Blue Sky conversation, Dr. Mastroianni describes research he and a colleague conducted that demonstrates that human beings falsely assume that the world used to be better, and that we continue to decline in terms of moral standards and civil behavior.  This cognitive “bug” he has detected can lead us to develop a more pessimistic view of the world and also leaves us more susceptible to believe in the message of autocrats who promise to take us back to a time when the world – and people – were somehow better than they are today.  Adam’s insights are fascinating, as are the techniques he uses in his research, and he explains his findings and observations with great wit and wisdom.  https://www.experimental-history.com/

LaTosha Brown has been described by many as a “force of nature,” and from the first seconds of this Blue Sky episode, you will understand why.  Raised in Selma, Alabama she grew up surrounded by family members who were at the center of the civil rights movement in the United States.  Being close to grandparents who spent much of their adult lives unable to vote led her to appreciate this franchise and their example continues to inspire her “get out the vote” work today. LaTosha describes being raised by strong women and not experiencing overt sexism until she ran for office in Alabama, but instead of letting this get her down, she channeled these experiences into the creation of the Southern Black Girls & Women’s Consortium. LaTosha Brown also happens to be a talented singer and performer, and she shares this gift with us here as well.

Dr. Anita Nowak has made the study of empathy her life’s work and in this Blue Sky conversation she provides her definition of the term and gives numerous examples of the value of empathy in both our personal and work lives.  As someone who teaches, consults, podcasts, and writes about this subject, Anita discusses empathy with persuasive passion and just might change the way you think about how you’d like to move through the world and what ripples you’d like to create as you go.  She also makes the case that living with empathy will actually improve your own quality of life at the same time you’re improving the wellbeing of those around you. Links: Order Purposeful Empathy: https://www.amazon.com/Purposeful-Empathy-Superpower-Personal-Organizational/dp/1506485057

Margo Walsh is an entrepreneur who created MaineWorks, a certified B-Corp that helps people with substance use disorder and/or criminal records find employment in the construction sector.  Her company finds and screens potential employees and through the non-profit she founded with her sister, sets them up for success by making sure that their basic needs for getting back to work are met (e.g., proper clothing, boots, transportation, etc.).   MaineWorks has expanded to other states in New England and provides a model for other companies in other parts of the country to emulate.  Her work has been widely recognized and earned several awards and in this episode she’ll describe how she attended a State of the Union address as a senator’s guest!

Sean Legister was raised by a strong single mom who put a premium on his education and set him up for success. After completing his degree and playing two sports at a small liberal arts college, he entered the competitive world of Wall Street and continued to thrive. While building his own career, Sean consistently goes above and beyond to lift others up.  In this episode, Sean describes that while he didn’t benefit from having a father in his life, between his mother and other mentors he’s actively sought out, he continues to succeed, and his drive for continuous self-improvement led him to the creation of his popular “Monday Morning Lift” newsletter. Links: https://www.mondaymorninglift.com/

Today’s Blue Sky guest tells her story from the coast of Maine, but the work she’s doing was inspired by her upbringing in Pennsylvania and has ramifications for the future of coastal communities around the world.  Briana Warner is the CEO of Atlantic Sea Farms and has dedicated her life to doing well by doing good. She is passionate about her adopted home state of Maine and working with partner farmers to help create a more resilient and thriving coast. She and her team have forged a new path for seaweed aquaculture in the US by working with fishermen to grow kelp as a climate change adaptation strategy—and building national demand for that kelp.   In this episode, Briana explains how her company developed a win-win business model with the lobster industry, why Kelp farming helps mitigate climate change, and the many health reasons to add kelp products to your diet.   Links: atlanticseafarms.com

The life of Jonathan Conyers is full of junctures where it appears he’s not going to make it.  Both of his parents battled addiction to crack cocaine, yet somehow managed to instill in their son a desire to be educated and advance in the world.  As he grows, Jonathan is surrounded by teachers and mentors who take special interest in him and encourage him to reach high, including “Dico,” his transgender debate coach, whose support ultimately alters the trajectory of his life – and Jonathan changes Dico’s in return.  In this Blue Sky conversation, Jonathan details some of the highlights of his remarkable memoir, his reasons for writing it, and what continues to motivate him today. Links: Order Jonathan's memoir, I Wasn't Supposed to Be Here

Dr. Robert Soiffer took an interest in medicine at an early age when he played a physician in his first-grade play.  Today, he is a leading physician, researcher, and teacher at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, a world leader in oncology.  In this episode, Dr. Soiffer describes the incredible pace of change in the field of cancer research and treatment and the detection tools and cures that are right around the corner.   He also reflects on how he maintains a positive and optimistic outlook despite the many times he’s forced to deliver terrible news to patients and families.  While he tries hard not to bring these tough times home with him, he also stresses the importance of keeping his humanity and treating his patients and their families as people, not just statistics.

Following a challenging childhood and the tragic death of her father, Kathryn Goetzke decided that the best way to tackle depression and despair is to create reasons for hope.  After studying the issue deeply with experts in psychology, she determined that hope was both teachable and measurable and has made it her life’s work to spread this message.   In 2022, she published The Biggest Little Book About Hope, and continues to be a global mental health ambassador. Kathryn was recently appointed to represent the World Federation for Mental Health at the United Nations and in this Blue Sky episode she describes how she came to be so passionate about this work and why she remains so committed to the cause of spreading the good news about the powerful effects of maintaining a hopeful attitude.

Elizabeth Cousens grew up with an insatiable curiosity about world events.  This early interest has led to a remarkable career of service, including significant roles with the United Nations, both in the New York headquarters and areas of armed conflict like Bosnia and Haiti.  At the United Nations Foundation, she oversees the organization that was formed thanks to Ted Turner’s $1 billion contribution and that today works alongside the United Nations “to collaborate for lasting change and innovate to address humanity's greatest challenges.”  In this episode, Elizabeth describes specific projects the UNF has taken on, from eradicating malaria to responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, and shares her view that while the next few years will be “decisive” in our fight against climate change, we have the answers and know what is required to be successful.

Alan Patricof began his career in venture capital before the industry even had that name.  Since 1969, he’s been seeking out and backing talented entrepreneurs with big ideas and earned his reputation as one of the all-time great investors.  While he’s best known for early bets on such successful companies as Apple, Office Depot, Audible, Axios, and many more, he is also a successful investor in film and live theater productions, including Tony Award winners Leopoldstadt and Hamilton. In his 2022 memoir, “No Red Lights,” Alan explains how making the effort to meet new people, staying current on fresh ideas, and approaching the world with an optimistic and trusting frame of mind has led not only to his success, but also to maintaining a youthful mind and healthy body.  After starting his most recent investment firm at the age of 86, he now plans to live to the age of 114, and in this Blue Sky conversation, Alan Patricof explains the disciplined routines and habits he expects will get him there.

When Eddie Ndopu was two years old, his mother was told he wouldn’t likely live past five.  Now in his early thirties, Eddie is an internationally-known and Oxford-educated advocate for the rights of the disabled.  In this interview, he shares how his optimistic single mother instilled in Eddie a love of learning and encouraged him to pursue a “life of the mind.”  Today, Eddie is world-renowned and was hand-selected by the UN Secretary General to be one of 17 people selected as an SDG Advocate.  Reflecting on his new memoir, Eddie describes how he wrote his book, typing with his “one good finger on an iPhone,” and why he hopes this book will inspire others to be more understanding and supportive of people living with disabilities. Links: Order Eddie's memoir, Sipping Dom Pérignon Through a Straw: Reimagining Success as a Disabled Achiever

In this wide-ranging conversation, renowned author and professor Steven Pinker describes that while he resists being called an “optimist,” as the label doesn’t necessarily suit his temperament, his deep dives into historical data have convinced him that the world is indeed getting better and has been on a steady trajectory since the days of the Enlightenment, the subject of one of his many acclaimed books.  Dr. Pinker also describes why he believes so many intellectuals resist acknowledging that the world is making progress; and adds, ironically, that self-described “progressives” often have the toughest time with this.  He also shares his concerns about the policing of speech on college campuses – including Harvard – and the deleterious effects this has on students’ wellbeing. 

In this very special episode of Blue Sky, Steve D. tells the remarkable story of his struggle against his son’s severe addiction to alcohol. (Steve is not using his full name here to protect his son’s anonymity.)  While living what he would describe as a near perfect life – great marriage with his high school sweetheart, dream job, five great children – Steve discovers that his youngest child is struggling with an addiction that has driven him to the point of attempting to take his own life.  Almost overnight, Steve’s world is turned upside down as he and his wife try to face their new reality and save their son.  With striking honesty, Steve describes his family’s heartbreaking and terrifying challenges, and why he left his Wall Street job to study addiction and make helping others in this predicament his life’s work.  Looking back now, the optimist in Steve describes his son’s struggles as “a gift,” and you’ll understand why when you hear his story. A content note: this episode includes discussion of severe addiction and suicide.

Vanessa Cooksey has held a variety of roles at a wide range of organizations — from Cartoon Network to Wells Fargo — and she explains how these all have prepared her to take the helm of the Regional Arts Commission (RAC) of St. Louis.  Vanessa describes in touching detail how a piece of art once literally helped save her life, and how she channels her appreciation for creativity into the work she does today to support the vibrant arts community in St. Louis.  She began her work in the depths of the pandemic but has turned that challenge into an opportunity to re-think and re-building this dynamic grants-making organization.

Dan Reicher’s interest in and advocacy for environmental protection and clean energy began when he was a child and has continued throughout his life.  In addition to teaching at Stanford University, has served three U.S. presidents, testified before the U.S. Congress more than 50 times, led the launch of Google’s pathbreaking climate and clean energy work, oversaw a $1.2 billion annual clean energy R&D budget as U.S. Assistant Secretary of Energy, and co-founded the nation’s first investment firm focused exclusively on renewable energy project finance.  In this Blue Sky episode, Dan provides his take on potential climate change solutions; from hydro, solar, wind,  and nuclear power, to conservation and reforestation.  He explains that while he’s realistic about the massive amount of work and resources that will be required to solve the climate crisis, he’s optimistic about our ability to get it done.

During her upbringing in Mumbai, India, Jeroo Billimoria’s parents taught her to take an active interest in the welfare of everyone in her community.  She was encouraged at the end of every day to ask herself, “How many people have I made smile and how many people have I helped?”  This attitude, combined with a humble leadership style and creative, entrepreneurial spirit has led Jeroo to create a series of successful ventures, primarily targeting the welfare of children.

Like most neuroscientists, until a little more than thirty years ago, Dr. Richard “Richie'' researched and studied things that go wrong with the brain.  But then, in 1992 he visited the Dalai Lama, who challenged him instead to work on understanding what happens to our brains when we practice kindness and compassion.  This conversation changed the trajectory of Richie’s life and career and he will share much of what he’s worked on and learned in the thirty-plus years since.  Among the topics covered in this conversation are the toxicity of distraction, neuroplasticity and our ability to reshape our brains, the value of gratitude and appreciation, and how simply being more aware of our surroundings can change our mindsets for the better.

One of the biggest complaints people have about their job is the lack of feedback they receive, both positive and negative.  Amy Sandler and the team Radical Candor believe in the power of “caring personally and challenging directly,” in valuing colleagues in a meaningful way and not being afraid to challenge them openly and honestly.  The Radical Candor company was founded following the success of Kim Scott’s eponymous bestseller and today holds seminars and workshops to train people in the lessons and behaviors she espouses. In this Blue Sky podcast, Amy explains how she came to this work and provides lessons and examples of how to put the principles of Radical Candor into practice.  Amy helps us understand how “ruinous empathy,” and “obnoxious aggression,” get in the way of constructive guidance at work. And as an added, if unrelated bonus, she also describes how, and why she has made it a practice to walk across hot coals seven times now.  

Charles Kenny brings to this episode a great depth of knowledge of progress being made around the world and supports his optimistic views with compelling statistics and anecdotes.  As he covers subjects ranging from disease eradication to life expectancy and the cost of basic necessities, Charles explains with infectious enthusiasm why we should take time to appreciate the remarkable progress we continue to make around the world.  Charles does not suggest we rest on our laurels but instead emphasizes that, “Because we can make the world better, there’s a moral imperative to make the world better.”

Virginia Gleason has spent her career working on improving law enforcement and public safety.  She comes to this work not out of a desire to put bad people behind bars or even simply to keep our streets safe, but rather as she says, “to impact the quality of people’s lives and reduce suffering.”  Virginia offers an optimistic take on the future of policing and public safety with an emphasis on improving the data collection and transparent dissemination of information related to police encounters with the community.  She also encourages the “democratization” of public safety, encouraging officers to get to know their constituents better – by engaging when times are good, not just when called to a scene – and for those of us who don’t work in law enforcement, to make efforts to understand their departments and the challenges they face.  Quoting her husband, a retired police officer, Virginia explains her belief that, “Everyone wants to be loved, everyone wants to be forgiven and everyone wants to be heard.  If you don’t know what else to do, fall back on those three things.”

After studying and working on public health issues, both in Lebanon and the United States, Teresa Chahine wanted to move from identifying and understanding societal problems to trying to fix them. While at Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health she was exposed to the teaching of social entrepreneurship “across the river” at the university’s business school.  Inspired by the promise of this relatively new discipline, she created her own course on the subject at the Chan School and now has written a definitive textbook on the subject.  She is now inspiring students at the Yale School of Management with the promise of how effective social entrepreneurship can help improve our world.

Growing up in New York with a particular interest in “the dark side” of human nature, Oren Segal has channeled that curiosity into a career spent providing resources, expertise and training which enables law enforcement, public officials and internet and technology companies to identify and counter emerging threats.  Oren approaches this challenging work with intense dedication and an inspiring sense of hope and optimism. Learn More About Oren Segal and ADL: https://www.adl.org/  https://www.adl.org/about/regional-offices

Dominique Wright describes a childhood of “humble beginnings,” complete with a series of forced moves and an eviction.  But she says that the positive mindset instilled by her mom helped her persevere through these tough early years to graduate from the US Naval Academy and serve as an officer, earn a law degree, and work at the NFL Players Association and the league’s business and legal affairs department.  Today, Dominique is the founder and CEO of a technology marketing startup, serving college athletes pursuing name, image, and likeness opportunities.  She describes her current work as the toughest she’s ever done, but says that her optimistic outlook and grit will get her through.

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, which will be available on May 3.  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.”

Following his early years as a musician and chasing dreams of becoming “the next John Mayer,” Tim Schurrer went on to a successful career building teams and powerful brands.  We know that one of the most common barriers to an optimistic outlook is dissatisfaction at work and in this episode, Tim describes his realization that great things happen when we shift our focus from climbing the ladder to helping others be successful. 

John Valverde describes the impactful work of the organization he leads, YouthBuild USA, and also shares his own inspiring story of persevering through 16 years in prison to found two non-profits and now lead a third; YouthBuild USA.  John explains how he brings his own lived experience to his leadership role of an organization that helps young people at their own crossroads change the trajectory of their life. Learn More About John and YouthBuild USA: https://youthbuild.org/

Rob Watson talks about how he emerged from a challenged school system in New York, graduated from Harvard College, served in the Peace Corps, and later earned two master’s degrees.  He explains what drives him to work so hard — and with so much hope — to achieve equity in opportunities for public school by teaching master’s candidates at the Harvard Graduate School of Education and by supporting innovative collaborative action programs around the country, including in his hometown of Poughkeepsie. Learn More About Rob: https://edredesign.org/home  https://www.linkedin.com/in/robwatsonjr/  https://www.gse.harvard.edu/  https://www.pkchildrenscabinet.com/ 

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. Learn More About David: https://howleaderslead.com/  https://www.yum.com/wps/portal/yumbrands/Yumbrands https://davidnovakleadership.com/

Jeff Korzenik, the chief economist at a major US bank, explains how predicting a labor shortage in the US led him to discover the growing movement around “second chance” hiring of people with criminal records.  His passion for this work led him to write “Untapped Talent,” a book that explains to companies the benefits of this type of hiring and offers a blueprint of how best to do it.  Jeff describes how second chance hiring can transform lives and communities. Check out Jeff’s book, “Untapped Talent” here.

In this episode, Bert describes how he and his brother grew from a challenging upbringing to create Life is Good, the original positive outlook brand.  He explains why he believes that optimism is a superpower and suggests that in all of history, there’s never been a successful pessimist. Browse Life is Good here! : https://www.lifeisgood.com/

Dr. Benton discusses how she came to choose to work with young people and their families and why she’s never been more optimistic about the future of child and adolescent mental healthcare in this country.  She shares her thoughts about the pros and cons of social media, the impact of the pandemic on young people and the value of outdoor activities for a children’s psyches. Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences is described here: https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/child-and-adolescent-psychiatry-and-behavioral-sciences

Tané Hunter and Dr. Angus (Gus) Hervey are the co-founders of Future Crunch, an Australia-based organization that provides intelligent, optimistic thinking about the future.  In their conversation with Bill, Tané and Gus cover such topics as the future of green energy, the pros and cons of AI and ChatGPT, and what they see as some of the most inspiring but under-reported stories from around the world. Find Future Crunch’s newsletter at this link, and browse their full site! https://futurecrun.ch/subscribe

Marcy shares her view that we need to stay hopeful and optimistic about our ability to impact the rate and effects of climate change.  She explains why climate doom is the new climate denial and describes how she thinks we should educate young people about the climate and their future. Sign up for The Climate Optimist at https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/c-change/climateoptimist/ And find the “Rewiring America” calculator here: https://www.rewiringamerica.org/app/ira-calculator

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!  Check out The Motley Fool at www.fool.com And Steven Pinker’s TED talk referenced in the interview is here: https://www.ted.com/talks/steven_pinker_is_the_world_getting_better_or_worse_a_look_at_the_numbers?language=en

Hosted by Bill Burke, founder of The Optimism Institute, this weekly podcast will feature inspiring leaders, authors, researchers, and big thinkers who are taking on some of our world’s toughest challenges with an infectious sense of optimism.   Blue Sky takes its name from the meditation reminder that there’s always blue sky above, sometimes you just have to get your head above the clouds to see it.