Best A Bit Of Optimism Podcasts (2025)

1
(PART 2) The Climb Out of Pain is Taller Than Everest with National Geographic photographer Cory Richards 39:47

20h ago39:47

39:47

*Please note: At 9:01, Simon and Cory have a discussion about suicide. What happens after we attain success and glory? Where do you go when there's nowhere left to run from yourself? In Part 2 of my conversation with Cory Richards, Cory explains why reaching the summit of Everest marked the beginning of a long, painful fall from grace. After his tu…

1
Memory & the Brain-Changing Benefits of Sleep with Neuroscientist Dr. Wendy Suzuki 47:15

6m ago47:15

47:15

Neuroscientist Dr. Wendy Suzuku is joining Getting Better this week teaching us to how to care for the brain. Do supplements really work? And the research and science proven brain-changing benefits of exercise, sleep, movement and food. We're diving into memory and how our brains actually memorize. And diving into how we keep our minds and brains f…

1
51 - How Movement Can Rewire the Brain: A Natural Approach to ADHD and Autism with Special Guest Caroline Price 28:53

1d ago28:53

28:53

Welcome back, Mamas! Ever feel like there has to be more to your child’s struggles with focus, learning, or behavior than just another label or prescription? You’re not alone — and this episode is going to blow your mind in the best way! Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of functional neurology with the amazing Caroline Price. She’s a …

1
Ep 13 - The Truth About Debt: How to Use It, Beat It, and Stop Feeling Bad About It 28:08

23h ago28:08

28:08

Is All Debt Bad? What the Wealthy Know That Most People Don’t Debt doesn’t have to be your enemy—and in this solo episode, Tyler Gardner breaks down how to make smarter decisions about debt, ditch shame, and leverage it as a tool for long-term wealth. Whether you’re currently drowning in high-interest credit cards, juggling student loans, or just d…

1
THE MONDAY EDIT: Mahmoud Khalil, Trump 2028, Espresso Martinis 41:54

2d ago41:54

41:54

This week, we’re talking: espresso martini mayhem, the detention of Mahmoud Khalil, Trump 2028, tennis obsessions, and our POV on Michelle Obama’s act of self care. Not A Phase. Trans Lifeline Follow us on Instagram @gettingbetterwithjvn Jonathan on Instagram @jvn and senior producer Chris @amomentlikechris New video episodes Getting Better on YouT…

1
What I’m Reading, Watching, Buying, Doing, and Listening To 27:22

2d ago27:22

27:22

In this episode of the Decoding Excellence Show, I'm sharing a handful of the things that have been grabbing my attention lately—from what I'm reading to what I'm watching, buying, doing, and listening to. We’re talking about Dan John’s new book The ABCs (and Fs) of Strength Training and how Easy Strength changed my approach early in my coaching ca…

1
50 - Instead of Snacks, Try This #1 Hack for Healthy Eating 7:32

5d ago7:32

7:32

Hi Mama! In this episode, I’m talking about one of my favorite topics… snacks! 🍿😋 But before you picture me hoarding granola bars, let’s just say this convo takes a few surprising turns. We’re unpacking how snacks can be a sneaky pitfall on your health journey — and how a simple mindset shift might just change everything. You’ll hear why I’ve start…

1
This One Change Will Supercharge Your Hydration - Ep 144 13:16

6d ago13:16

13:16

Most people think they’re hydrated… but they’re not even close. In this episode, Andy breaks down the shocking truth about water: how much you really need, what you MUST be adding to it, and why just “drinking more” isn’t the answer. Discover how hydration impacts your energy, focus, digestion, immunity, joint health, and how to do it right with th…

1
Sustainability Crash Course with Environmentalist Leah Thomas 46:01

7d ago46:01

46:01

Leah Thomas, author of The Intersectional Environmentalist, stopped by Getting Better to help us get a grip on how we can be sustainable from home, understand why environmental justice IS social justice, and why joy should be at the center of all activism. Leah Thomas is an award-winning environmentalist based in Los Angeles. A passionate advocate …

1
Art is Like a Shark: Creating a Career in the World of Art with Dr. James Fox, Art Historian and Broadcaster 34:47

7d ago34:47

34:47

Art history isn't just about museums and galleries—it's a gateway to developing crucial professional skills and understanding human creativity across time and cultures. In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett interviews Dr. James Fox, a renowned art historian, broadcaster, and Cambridge Scholar, who shares insights into his diverse …

1
(PART 1) The Climb Out of Pain is Taller Than Everest with National Geographic photographer Cory Richards 47:27

8d ago47:27

47:27

What happens when we reach the top? There’s only one place to go. Cory Richards has scaled the world’s highest peaks and fallen to life’s lowest lows. An acclaimed mountain climber, photographer, and filmmaker, Cory has literally reached the top of the world. He climbed Mount Everest with no supplemental oxygen, became the first American to summit …

1
49 - Confused About an Optimal Diet and Lifestyle? 3 Things You Need to Know Part 2 15:06

8d ago15:06

15:06

Hey Mama! Ever wondered what it really takes to live to 100—and still be dancing, weaving, walking mountains, or sipping a glass of red wine while doing it? In this episode, we’re heading on a global adventure to some of the most fascinating longevity hotspots in the world. From a Japanese island where people eat till they're only 80% full, to a Ca…

1
Ep 12 - Andy Schneider - The Educator’s Guide to Money, College, and Real-World Finance 30:42

8d ago30:42

30:42

What happens when a former English teacher becomes a CFO—and decides to teach everyone around him how money actually works? In this episode, Tyler sits down with longtime friend and campmate Andy Schneider, a career educator and current CFO at an independent school, for a wide-ranging and deeply honest conversation about what we teach (and don’t te…

1
THE MONDAY EDIT: Alien Enemies Act, J.K. Rowling’s Cigar, Lady Gaga at Coachella 34:28

9d ago34:28

34:28

This week, we’re talking: deportations under the Alien Enemies Act, the U.K. Supreme Court ruling on the definition of a woman, J.K. Rowling’s Cigar, Nicola Coughlin, and Lady Gaga at Coachella. Not A Phase. Trans Lifeline Follow us on Instagram @gettingbetterwithjvn Jonathan on Instagram @jvn and senior producer Chris @amomentlikechris New video e…

1
48 - Confused About an Optimal Diet and Lifestyle? 3 Things You Need to Know Part 1 13:34

13d ago13:34

13:34

Hey there, and welcome back! 👋 In today’s episode, I’m taking a break from all the noise in the health world — you know, the “top 5 must-do” lists and all the conflicting advice — and instead, I’m turning to the people who are actually living the healthiest, longest lives. We’re kicking off a mini-series exploring the Blue Zones, starting with the …

1
Lose Fat Faster: The SIMPLE Science of Macros Explained - Ep 143 15:56

13d ago15:56

15:56

If you want to lose fat, build muscle, or boost your energy, you need to understand macros. Protein, carbs, fat… they’re not just numbers. They’re the key to changing your body. In this episode Andy explains how to fuel your body properly with the right amount of proteins, fats and carbs; how to eat in a caloric deficit (without starving yourself. …

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The 1 Minute Practice That Can Change Your Life with Manifestation Expert Gabby Bernstein 53:33

14d ago53:33

53:33

Gabrielle Bernstein, best selling author and manifestation expert, stopped by Getting Better to help JVN understand the POWER of manifestation. What mental blocks do we carry with us that make it nearly impossible to manifest the life we want? How can we start TODAY? What does Family Systems Therapy have to do with it? We’re gonna find out! For nea…

1
Busting Myths About Accountancy with Karl Edge, Chief People Officer and Head of Regions at KPMG UK 32:13

14d ago32:13

32:13

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett interviews Karl Edge, Chief People Officer and Head of Regions at KPMG UK, who shares his 34-year journey from a working-class background to a leadership position at one of the world's leading professional services firms. What You’ll Learn: Why accountancy is far from boring: how it provides a…

1
Find Your Allies Fast with philanthropist Melinda French Gates 38:35

15d ago38:35

38:35

Change happens to all of us whether we choose it or not. What’s the best way to go through transition, especially when it’s something we didn’t want? Melinda French Gates has seen her fair share of big transitions. A philanthropist, author, and champion for female empowerment, she spent decades building the Gates Foundation into one of the mighties…

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47 - Ready for Holistic Health? How Healing Trauma Can Get You There, Faster Part 2 - with Special Guest Elizabeth Taylor-McClure 26:37

15d ago26:37

26:37

Hey Mamas, Today we are continuing the interview from part 1 with Elizabeth Taylor-McClure. We talk about how past trauma affects our physical health and ways that we can stop the cycle and achieve our best health. You'll learn powerful strategies to help you to process trauma and tools to help your kids do the same. This information could save you…

1
Ep 11 - The 3-Step Framework for Solving Any Financial Problem (That's Actually Worth Solving) 26:22

15d ago26:22

26:22

Have you ever said, “I’m just bad with money”? Yeah—me too. But what if the real issue isn’t your spending or saving or investing strategy... but your ability to name the actual problem in the first place? This solo episode is a follow-up to last week’s conversation with CFP® Victoria Ferguson, and it’s all about creating a personal framework that …

1
THE MONDAY EDIT: Trump pardons, Ron Vara, White Lotus Finale 36:34

16d ago36:34

36:34

This week, we’re talking: travel fatigue, negative self talk, the price of Presidential pardons, Ron Vara, and the end of music’s longest feud. Plus! Our breakdown of The White Lotus finale. Follow us on Instagram @gettingbetterwithjvn Jonathan on Instagram @jvn and senior producer Chris @amomentlikechris New video episodes Getting Better on YouTub…

1
46 - Ready for Holistic Health? How Healing Trauma Can Get You There, Faster Part 1 - with Special Guest Elizabeth Taylor-McClure 23:33

19d ago23:33

23:33

Hey Mamas, This episode with special guest Elizabeth Taylor-McClure is filled with information you can't afford to miss! We talk about how past trauma affects our physical health and ways that we can stop the cycle and achieve our best health. You'll learn powerful strategies to help you to process trauma and tools to help your kids do the same. Th…

1
Intermittent Fasting: Breakthrough Strategy or Overhyped Trend? - Ep 142 30:23

20d ago30:23

30:23

CEOs, Busy Executives, High-Performers… Is skipping breakfast making you sharper… or slowly wrecking your health? In this episode, Andy breaks down Intermittent Fasting vs. Traditional Eating like never before. Does fasting supercharge your productivity, or kill your gains? Can time-restricted eating really help you burn fat and stay focused, or is…

1
3 Procrastination Hacks To Jumpstart Your Day with Marie Forleo 51:36

21d ago51:36

51:36

Procrastination, honey! We’ve all been there, done that, and bought the t-shirt. But whether it’s fear or misalignment - we’re uncovering the real reasons why we procrastinate, how to handle the procrastinator in your life, and how we can change the narrative on negative self talk to set ourselves up for success. Marie Forleo, New York Times Best S…

1
45 - 5 Evidence-based Rules You Can Use to Make Informed Decisions 13:51

21d ago13:51

13:51

Hey there, friends! In today’s episode, we’re talking about how to spot the difference between health numbers that look good on paper and something that actually helps in real life. I’m diving into why health outcomes matter way more than those flashy numbers on your lab report so you don’t have to be afraid of every little change. We’ll also have …

1
Who Are You, Really? with journalist Maria Shriver 41:41

21d ago41:41

41:41

We often define ourselves by what we do or who we are to other people. But at our core, who we are is often something much deeper, and sometimes wildly different, from the version that the world sees -- or projects onto you. Maria Shriver was born into the legendary Kennedy and Shriver families, arriving with a script already written for her—an ide…

1
Ep 10 - Victoria Ferguson - On Money, Meaning, and Saying No to Budgets 40:31

23d ago40:31

40:31

What do you get when you combine a financial planner with the heart of a teacher and the boldness of a creator? You get Victoria Ferguson—today’s guest and a true money guide for the modern world. Victoria is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® who left a traditional finance career to create educational content full-time. Why? Because she knew more peop…

1
THE MONDAY EDIT: Georgia’s Draconian Abortion Laws, Cory Booker’s Speech, Kelly Clarkson’s Wink 38:08

23d ago38:08

38:08

This week, we’re talking: idealistic Maine seaside towns, Kelly Clarkson and her wink, Tariffs, Georgia’s Abortion Law, Mario Kart World, and Hot B*tch Of The Week: Cory Booker. Follow us on Instagram @gettingbetterwithjvn Jonathan on Instagram @jvn and senior producer Chris @amomentlikechris New video episodes Getting Better on YouTube every Wedne…

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44 - Why the Flu Vaccine isn’t What You Think it is. The Truth About Flu Vaccine Effectiveness 19:41

26d ago19:41

19:41

Hey Mama, and welcome back! Today, we’re taking a deep dive into the flu vaccine — specifically, how well it actually works. No hype, no fear-mongering — just the data speaking for itself. We’re going to look at what "effectiveness" really means according to our health agencies, some eyebrow-raising findings from studies over the decades, and the r…

1
Make These 5 Simple Changes & Watch Your Body Transform - Ep 141 17:13

27d ago17:13

17:13

You're working out, eating kind of right… but still not seeing results? That’s because you’re missing THESE 5 critical areas. In this must-watch episode, Andy exposes the BIGGEST fitness mistakes you’re making, and how to turn them into game-changing opportunities. If you’re a busy professional who’s tried (and failed) to lose weight, this is your …

1
Want to Love Better? Start Here with Yung Pueblo 54:39

28d ago54:39

54:39

We’re diving into the world of love, self-awareness, and the power of releasing the old labels that no longer serve us. JVN is joined by the wise and wonderful Yung Pueblo (aka Diego Perez) to talk about how we can all love BETTER. We’re getting into why we need to move beyond "masculine energy" and "feminine energy,” why the foundation for love is…

1
43 - Confused About Healthy Eating in Pregnancy? The Top 2 Foods to Avoid 14:48

28d ago14:48

14:48

Hey Mama! I still laugh when I think about my pregnancy cravings — some things were delicious, and others, well… let’s just say my rotisserie chicken story makes me laugh to this day! But let’s be real — sometimes it’s hard enough to just eat when you’re expecting, let alone think about what’s best for you and your baby. In this episode, we’re brea…

1
The Search for Self-Love with podcaster Lewis Howes 51:15

28d ago51:15

51:15

Self-love is never as easy as we think. Is it possible to fall in love with ourselves the way we fall for other people? Lewis Howes knows that learning to like yourself, let alone love yourself, can take decades. After surviving a traumatic childhood, Lewis spent years working on himself to try and understand what it takes for human beings to achie…

1
Building a Career Through Trust and Culture with Will Lankston, Managing Director of Timpson Direct 31:25

28d ago31:25

31:25

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Will Lankston, Managing Director of Timpson Direct. What You’ll Learn: How to thrive in an empowering workplace culture built on trust and kindness Why saying "yes" to challenging opportunities accelerates career progression The power of personality-based hiring and why cultural f…

1
Ep 9 - On Playing to Win (The Asymmetry of Opportunity) 27:34

30d ago27:34

27:34

Most people spend their lives trying not to lose. The wealthy? They play to win. In this solo episode, Tyler Gardner breaks down the asymmetry of opportunity—why one big win can outweigh dozens of small failures, and how our fear of loss keeps us from seeing the upside that could change everything. Tyler takes you from Disney’s acquisition of Pixar…

1
THE MONDAY EDIT: Watch Out for THIS Supreme Court Ruling on Gender-Affirming Care 34:28

30d ago34:28

34:28

Welcome to The Monday Edit! This is the official Getting Better companion podcast where JVN and senior producer Chris are diving into all things BTS from the pod, answering listener questions, and breaking down the world at large. This week, we’re talking: Doechii, Hannah Einbinder’s HRC speech, the White Lotus, the upcoming Supreme Court ruling on…

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42 - Instead of Collagen Supplements Try These 4 Tips to Finally Have Better Skin 12:36

1M ago12:36

12:36

Hi Mamas! Let’s talk about something we all care about—our skin! The beauty industry makes billions selling us products, but finding ones that are both effective and natural can be a challenge. That’s why so many people turn to collagen supplements, hoping for better hair, skin, and nails. Today we are going to find out if those supplements are act…

1
Forget the 80/20 Rule—Do This Instead - Ep 140 12:00

1M ago12:00

12:00

You need to focus 80% on nutrition to get in shape, right? ❌ WRONG In today’s episode, Andy is here to shatter one of the biggest fitness myths holding you back. Breaking down why TRUE transformation isn’t just about what’s on your plate, it’s about much more… your goals, your effort, your recovery. And your mindset. Want real results? Stop obsessi…

1
Queer Eye’s Antoni Shares the Surprising Ways That Food Can Change Your Life 42:21

1M ago42:21

42:21

This week, JVN and Antoni Porowski serve up a delicious conversation on the intersections of food, identity, and personal growth. From Antoni’s culinary journey to the ways food connects us to our past, present, and future, they explore how what we eat can reflect who we are. Antoni opens up about the role of food in self-care, how cooking can be a…

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Revisited: Why Awkward Is Awesome with psychologist Ty Tashiro 31:51

1M ago31:51

31:51

A Bit of Optimism is on hiatus this week, so we’re revisiting one of our favorite conversations! In this episode, Simon talks with psychologist Ty Tashiro about social awkwardness and why being awkward can actually be a superpower. ***** Awkwardness gets a bad rap. But being awkward is often an indicator that someone has extraordinary. Psychologist…

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41 - Struggling with a Special Needs Diagnosis? How One Mom Handled Crisis and Found Hope with Special Guest Sarah Joy 36:05

1M ago36:05

36:05

Hi Mamas, Get ready for an inspiring and heart-centered conversation with Sarah Joy, an emotional health coach and the founder of House of Belonging. In this episode, we dive deep into her personal journey of navigating the medical system as a mom of a special needs child. Sarah shares the raw and emotional moments of receiving unexpected news abou…

1
Ep 8 - Jessica Inskip - On Leaving Wall Street, Fighting Misinformation, and Redefining Financial Education 41:03

1M ago41:03

41:03

This week on Your Money Guide on the Side, I’m joined by the incredible Jessica Inskip—one of the sharpest, most grounded voices in modern investing. Jessica was the first female on Fidelity’s active trader desk, and you may have seen her breaking down complex strategies alongside Jim Cramer, or offering sharp, accessible takes on CNBC, Fox Busines…

1
THE MONDAY EDIT: Attacks On HIV Prevention Programs, Benefits of Maintaining A Streak, Bhad Bhabie 39:02

1M ago39:02

39:02

Welcome to The Monday Edit! This is the official Getting Better companion podcast where JVN and senior producer Chris are diving into all things BTS from the pod, answering listener questions, and breaking down the world at large. This week, we’re talking: astrological sister signs, the ongoing Bhad Bhabie & Alabama Barker feud, the great Cybertruc…

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40 - Stumped on Getting the Flu Vaccine? This History Will Help 16:42

1M ago16:42

16:42

Hey Mama, If you’ve ever had the flu, you know it’s no joke—the fever, the chills, the total wipeout. And while none of us are eager for a repeat experience, the flu isn’t going anywhere. That’s why flu vaccines are such a hot topic, recommended for just about everyone six months and older. But how did we even get here? In this episode, we’re takin…

1
This ONE Mindset Shift Will Change Your Life - Ep 139 14:54

1M ago14:54

14:54

What’s stopping you from achieving your goals? Two things: BS excuses and limiting beliefs. And it’s time to destroy both. In this no-nonsense episode, Andy Naylor rips apart the lies you tell yourself about fitness, success, and why you’re still stuck. If you’re waiting for motivation, you’ve already lost. Your mindset is either your greatest weap…

1
The Life Changing Science of Optimism (And How You Can Harness It) 50:23

1M ago50:23

50:23

Getting Curious just got a Queer Eye makeover all its own! Today we’re entering a new era of the podcast - Getting Better! We’re so excited you’re joining us on this next chapter. This podcast will help guide you through life’s shared challenges—and leave you feeling a little bit better. This week JVN and Gretchen explore the art (and science) of f…

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From Olympic Hopeful to CEO: Rebecca Ajulu-Bushell's Journey of Breaking Barriers 32:13

1M ago32:13

32:13

In this episode of Careers Unwrapped, host Mark Fawcett is joined by Rebecca Ajulu-Bushell, CEO of Ten Thousand Interns Foundation. Join them as they explore: Rebecca's journey from elite swimming to charity leadership The challenges of being a trailblazer in a predominantly white sport Her decision to retire from swimming before the London 2012 Ol…

1
Does Gender Change How We Lead? with Retired Colonel DeDe Halfhill 40:39

1M ago40:39

40:39

Is there such a thing as female leadership? Or is gender not a factor? DeDe Halfhill would say yes and no. A retired Air Force colonel, Dede spent 20 years in the military, where she advised some of the military’s most powerful leaders during the War in Iraq. She was often the only woman in the room for weeks on end. And while DeDe found the princi…

1
39 - The #1 Truth About Healthy Eating During Pregnancy 15:47

1M ago15:47

15:47

Hi Mama! Pregnancy comes with enough surprises — do we really need the endless (and sometimes conflicting) food rules on top of it? No lunch meat, no Caesar salad, eat for two… or maybe don’t? Instead of stressing over every little rule, let’s take a step back and focus on what really matters when it comes to nourishing both you and your baby. What…

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A Bit Of Optimism Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen