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In this heartwarming episode of That Optimism Man Podcast by The Centre for Optimism, Victor Perton engages in an inspiring and thoughtful conversation with Dr. Stephen Parnis, a leading emergency physician, medical leader, and advocate for healthcare professionals. Together, they explore the profound intersections of life, death, and optimism.
Dr. Parnis shares his personal and professional journey, offering insights into how optimism strengthens resilience in high-pressure environments like emergency medicine. They discuss the life-and-death significance of optimism, the challenges of burnout, the connection between optimism and health, and how to foster hope in times of adversity.
Whether in healthcare or any other field, this episode offers practical wisdom on staying optimistic, leading with empathy, and finding meaning in challenges and triumphs.
Stay connected! You can follow Dr. Stephen Parnis on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter). You can join Victor Perton and the optimism movement through The Centre for Optimism’s website and follow Victor on X, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Substack. -
In this uplifting episode of That Optimism Man Podcast, Victor Perton is joined by Russell Bricknell, CEO of Juniper Aged Care, to explore what makes Russell optimistic. From his unique childhood as the son of missionary parents in Papua New Guinea to his leadership in aged care, Russell shares how life experience, faith, and the power of working alongside committed people fuel his optimism.
Several years ago, Amanda Terranova described Russell as one of her most influential leaders—a beacon of calm, balance, and integrity during times of change and complexity. What a perfect foundation for leading with optimism in an ever-evolving sector like aged care.
Victor and Russell delve into Juniper's inspiring report, The Voice of Older Western Australians. The report reveals older generations full of optimism, deeply connected to family, friends, and community, and eager to embrace opportunities for growth, health, and exploration. Russell's insights remind us of the importance of fostering a collective commitment to making a difference and how optimism becomes contagious in the process.
Tune in for an engaging conversation that celebrates the wisdom and optimism of older generations. You'll be inspired to reflect on your own sources of hope and create meaningful change. Don't miss it! -
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In this energising episode of the That Optimism Man Podcast, Bill Burke, Founder of The Optimism Institute and Host of the Blue Sky Podcast, connects with Victor Perton, Founder of The Centre for Optimism, for an inspiring discussion about the transformative power of optimism.
Both shaped by their optimistic mothers, Bill and Victor explore optimism's pivotal role in health, resilience, and leadership. They share personal stories, insights from their work, and actionable ideas to foster hope and progress.
Victor introduces his concept of magnetic optimism: "an optimism so tangible and a vision so compelling that people want to reach out and touch it." Bill embodies this magnetic optimism, bringing an infectious energy to every story he tells and every idea he shares.
From Ted Turner's influence on Bill's career to Victor's global optimism movement, this conversation is brimming with insights that will leave you uplifted and ready to embrace the future with positivity.
Discover how optimism is the key to living healthier, leading better, and creating a brighter world. -
Join Victor Perton, "That Optimism Man", in a thought-provoking conversation with John Hagel, renowned author, Silicon Valley veteran, and passionate advocate for opportunity and exploration. Together, they delve into the transformative power of exploration and optimism in leadership, innovation, and life. From the insights of John's acclaimed books, including The Power of Pull and The Journey Beyond Fear, to practical advice on shaping serendipity, embracing curiosity, and navigating fear, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration. Discover how optimism, exploration, and curiosity can unlock your potential and shape a brighter future!
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Victor Perton talks with Benson Saulo—trailblazer, father, and infectiously optimistic leader—for a conversation brimming with hope, storytelling, and inspiration. From becoming Australia's first Indigenous Consul-General to running as a Liberal candidate for Macnamara, Benson's journey has been marked by resilience, vision, and a belief in shaping a brighter future.
When asked what makes him optimistic, Benson shared, "It's such a beautiful question, and a couple of things really shaped me to be an optimist. One is right in front of me—my kids. I'm a father of three. I've got three under five, which sometimes brings challenges. But the decisions we make today help shape the future for them tomorrow. I can't help but be optimistic when I see that my daughter just turned five—she's off to big school next year. We've got a three-month-old who just rolled over this morning, which is amazing. And our two-and-a-half-year-old son loves dinosaurs—he can tell you a whole range of things about them. That gives me a lot of optimism for the beautiful world we can shape for them."
"I also think about my upbringing and some wise words my father gave me when I was 13: 'Never think the world is not yours.' As a 13-year-old, that message meant the world was mine to step into and make my own, regardless of my humble upbringing or skin colour. That every opportunity is afforded to you. From a young age, optimism was instilled in me by my father through faith. My father is a minister, and church and faith played an important role in our upbringing and continue to shape my family's life today. It's a strong foundation for being optimistic about the future."
Benson also reflects on the unique sense of optimism he's developed through yarning with Australians—from bustling urban centres to the country's most remote corners. In these conversations, he's witnessed the resilience, creativity, and deep sense of community that define Australia's spirit. These experiences fuel his belief in a brighter future for the nation, shaped by the collective efforts of its people.
Join us for this heartwarming episode, rich with storytelling and insights on how optimism, faith, and connection can inspire a better tomorrow. -
Join me, Victor Perton, on "That Optimism Man Victor Perton" as I welcome back Dr. Bruno Cignacco, a global leader in compassionate business. In this episode, titled "A Passion for Compassion and Optimism: Bruno Cignacco and Victor Perton," we explore the transformative power of compassion in the business world. Bruno shares insights from his research, highlighting a new generation of companies prioritizing human-oriented approaches. We discuss the importance of building strong, long-lasting relationships with stakeholders and the role of compassion in enhancing workplace dynamics. Bruno emphasizes that the most valuable resource in business is the human being, advocating for a shift from profit-focused to people-centered strategies. Tune in to discover how compassion and optimism can reshape business practices and create a more sustainable future.
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In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Victor Perton speaks with Viv Nguyen, Chairperson of the Victorian Multicultural Commission, about her journey as a Vietnamese refugee - a "boat person" - and the optimism that fuels her leadership.
Viv shares the profound hope that guided her and her community in rebuilding their lives and her reflections on the power of optimism in family, community engagement, and creating opportunities for others. She says: "When you are optimistic and hopeful, the tone of your conversation is different, your posture is different, and whatever you're saying becomes more infectious."
Through personal anecdotes and insights, Viv discusses the importance of collaboration, trust, and deep engagement in overcoming challenges and building a thriving, inclusive society. Her unwavering belief that "you just have to know that there is a better tomorrow" resonates deeply in this candid conversation.
Discover how Viv connects optimism to action, leadership, and the potential for positive change in multicultural communities. This episode will leave you inspired to embrace optimism as a driver of resilience and opportunity.
Visit The Centre for Optimism to explore more insights and join the optimism movement. https://www.centreforoptimism.com/podcasts -
In this episode of The Optimism Man, host Victor Perton welcomes Chelsea Follett, Managing Editor of HumanProgress.org, a project of the Cato Institute that provides open data on long-term global improvements in well-being. Chelsea is also the author of Centers of Progress: 40 Cities That Changed the World, a book that celebrates cities that have driven humanity forward through innovation, resilience, and optimism.
Chelsea and Victor discuss how an optimistic, fact-based view of progress can empower individuals and leaders alike. From advancements in public health and environmental sustainability to the power of cities as hubs of progress, Chelsea shares insights that align with The Optimism Principle—the belief that optimism holds the answers to life’s most pressing challenges. Together, they explore how optimism, backed by data and historical examples, can be a catalyst for ongoing innovation and societal improvement.
Join us for a conversation that reveals how optimism, grounded in progress, can be the inspiration for positive action and a brighter future. -
In this episode of That Optimism Man, Victor Perton explores "The Optimism Economy" with special guests Dr. Anand Kulkarni and Robert Masters AM.
Built upon the foundation of The Optimism Principle, this conversation on The Optimism Economy highlights how optimism is a powerful driver of national productivity, innovation, and economic resilience.
Dr Kulkarni and Robert Masters share insights into the impact of "economic optimism," showing how nations that nurture positive expectations see greater R&D investments, increased workforce engagement, innovation, productivity and sustainable growth.
Together, they outline a vision where optimism, supported by strategic policies and inspiring leadership, becomes essential for national progress. With infectious optimism as its cornerstone, this framework enables countries to rise above challenges, fostering environments where creativity, investment, and well-being flourish.
Join us for a thought-provoking look at how a national framework for economic optimism could shape the future, empowering leaders, businesses, and communities to unlock their full potential.
Read More on The Optimism Economy https://www.centreforoptimism.com/blog/optimismeconomy -
In this episode of That Optimism Man, Victor Perton talks with Brad Rowswell, the Shadow Treasurer in the Parliament of Victoria, who is passionate about servant leadership. Rowswell shares how his faith and life experiences shaped his view of servant leadership from his early years studying for the priesthood to his passion for community service. He explains how optimism, a commitment to gratitude, and an unwavering hope for humanity are central to his role in public service.
Rowswell and Perton explore the intersection of optimism and service, discussing how an optimistic mindset can inspire resilience, empathy, and a purpose-driven approach to leadership. They touch on timeless wisdom, including insights from faith leaders like Mother Julian of Norwich, and the grounding effect of simple daily gratitude. With honesty and humour, Rowswell reveals what drives his passion for people, community, and public service and how optimism has become a sustaining force in his life.
Tune in to hear how optimism and servant leadership work together to create impactful, people-focused governance. This episode may inspire you to lead with more infectious optimism, hope, gratitude, and purpose in your own life. -
This edition of "That Optimism Man" podcast includes an interview with Juliana O'Connor-Connolly, the Premier of the Cayman Islands, about what makes her optimistic.
Victor Perton, "That Optimism Man", spent last week in Samoa at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Forums, "The Peoples Forum" and "The Commonwealth Business Forum," to provoke optimism in an agenda best by doom and gloom and press predictions of unresolvable disputes problems.
Andrew McKellar, the CEO of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, chairing a panel, had just told the President of Ghana, "The approach we adopt should fundamentally be one of optimism…"
Andrew turned to Premier Juliana O'Connor-Connolly and asked about the Commonwealth network.
Julianna spoke of "an audacity of optimism."
Victor then asked the Premier to elaborate on her optimism and that audacity of optimism.
Victor Perton: "Premier, what makes you optimistic? Is it mindset, life experience, faith?"
Juliana O'Connor-Connolly: "I think it's a combination of both. From a very young age, I became a very strong advocate that your attitude depends on your attitude and that your performance based on your commitment, and together, that gives me optimism that every day my purpose is yet to be fulfilled."
Victor Perton: Today, you talked about the audacity of optimism for the Commonwealth. Would you like to elaborate on that?
Juliana O'Connor-Connolly: "Absolutely. I utilized the word audacity, but I could have equally substituted that by the temerity. I believe that with the Commonwealth, like I indicated out of many, we're one family, but we and ourself have failed to really maximize the potentiality that resides within the Commonwealth itself. So today it excites me that we are talking about one Commonwealth, one voice, which means that we have to get back to the basics, consultation and collaboration."
Victor Perton: You also talked about investment, public-private partnerships, and trust. So, what makes you optimistic about the Cayman Islands and the world?"
Juliana O'Connor-Connolly: "Well, I believe that the Cayman progress and despite the many, many diversions and challenges and complexities, our desire to make the lives better for all of our people, the welcoming to persons who have chosen to make Cayman their jurisdiction of choice, which have led us to over 130 plus nationalities, no civil unrest, very relatively little crime and persons who come once, they come back. That is a recipe for success that we are willing and prepared to share with the rest of our Commonwealth brothers and sisters." -
Join Victor Perton as he hosts a thought-provoking conversation with Bruce Everett, an Anglican deacon who explores the complex dimensions of optimism. In this episode, Bruce reflects on his personal journey through life’s challenges, such as health issues and divorce, and how these experiences have shaped his nuanced view of optimism. Together, they discuss the power of optimism to inspire and uplift and its potential pitfalls when misapplied. Bruce shares insights from his recent travels to South America, where he encountered resilience and hope in indigenous cultures, drawing parallels to Australia. This episode dives deep into the intersection of optimism, purpose, and faith, offering listeners a balanced perspective on how to find meaning and positivity in both good times and adversity.
Tune in to explore the yin and yang of optimism, social mobility, and global perspectives on hope in the modern world. -
In this riveting episode of "That Optimism Man" podcast, "The Optimism Effect" and "Dr Danielle Kent's Learned Optimism," with special guest Dr Danielle Kent, a leading researcher in Behavioural Finance from the University of Sydney, we explore how optimism drives not only individual success but national and global economic transformation.
Dr. Kent unpacks her groundbreaking research on The Optimism Effect, which shows how optimism boosts productivity and innovation in 42 countries. She explains how producer optimism—business confidence in future success—leads to increased investments in research and development, creating fertile grounds for innovation.
However, the discussion isn't confined to economics. Danielle shares her personal experiences of embracing optimism during the pandemic, and how it led to a transformative change in her life. These stories serve as a powerful reminder that optimism is a skill that can be learned and applied in both personal and professional settings.
From national strategies to household decisions, optimism empowers nations, businesses, and individuals to achieve more. Take advantage of this transformative conversation on how optimism can unlock the door to a brighter, more innovative future.
Tune in for an inspiring dialogue, and discover how optimism could be the game changer for you and your organisation!
What's the most significant lesson you've learned about optimism in your journey?
#optimism #optimist #optimistic -
Welcome to The Optimism Diet, a refreshing and uplifting conversation that explores how the foods we love—and the simple daily habits we embrace—can feed our minds, lift our spirits, and spark lasting joy. In this episode, I dive into the delightful connection between the meals that bring us happiness and the ingredients that nurture optimism. From the comfort of a crispy schnitzel to the sweetness of fresh apricots and the warmth of a glass of Armagnac, we'll explore how to cultivate positivity in every bite.
But this isn't about healthy food. It's about feeding the optimistic soul. Join me as I share stories, practical tips, and inspiring reflections on surrounding ourselves with optimism, practising gratitude, and embracing the joyful power of connection. If you've ever wondered how to build an optimism diet for your life, tune in and discover the nourishing recipe for a brighter, more optimistic outlook.
What are the foods that make you feel more optimistic? What dishes bring you the most joy? Let's savour the experience together. -
In this episode of That Optimism Man, Victor Perton is joined by Jasmine Koria, a passionate youth leader from Samoa, who shares her insights on optimism, leadership, and the upcoming Commonwealth Youth Forum at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2024 in Samoa (CHOGM)
Victor kicks off the conversation with his signature question, "What makes you optimistic?" To which Jasmine beautifully responds, "For me, it's a combination of all of those things—definitely my faith, which has been very intertwined with my upbringing. I grew up here in very sunny but also very rainy Samoa. My parents were both teachers and when you're in a field like education, especially in the developing Pacific, you've got to be very optimistic all the time."
Jasmine discusses how working with young people as a teacher fuels her optimism. She highlights the importance of sustainable optimism and explains how the Samoan philosophy of life helps her and the youth of the Pacific overcome challenges. As a Samoa's CHOGM Youth Forum Task Force member, Jasmine offers a compelling perspective on how Pacific youth can influence global policy on key issues like climate change and social justice.
Listen in to hear how the youth of Samoa are poised to lead with optimism, hope, and resilience at CHOGM 2024.
#Optimism #CHOGM2024 #YouthLeadership #Samoa #SustainableOptimism #PacificYouth -
Join Rod Wade, the Chair of World Commerce & Contracting, as he engages in an inspiring conversation with That Optimism Man, Victor Perton. In this episode, Rod shares his remarkable journey, from his diverse upbringing to his influential role in shaping global commercial and contract management standards. As a true optimist and active supporter of the Centre for Optimism, Rod offers deep insights into how optimism fuels innovation, resilience, and strategic success in global commerce.
Listeners will discover how Rod’s leadership at World Commerce & Contracting and his role as Vice President of Contract Management & Procurement at MedImpact Healthcare Systems exemplify the power of optimistic leadership in times of change. With a wealth of experience across industries and continents, Rod discusses the importance of human connection, collaboration, and humour in creating a thriving, productive workplace.
Victor and Rod also dive into the future of contract management, the impact of digital transformation, and how an optimistic mindset can shape the evolution of global commerce. This episode is a must-listen for leaders, innovators, and anyone looking to cultivate optimism in their personal and professional lives.
Discover how optimism, when paired with strategic leadership, can elevate individual success and drive productivity and innovation across industries.
Tune in to be inspired, uplifted, and equipped with practical insights on leading with optimism in a rapidly changing world. -
In this episode of "That Optimism Man" Podcast, Victor Perton talks with Professor Carol Graham, a global leader in the economics of optimism, hope, happiness, and wellbeing.
As the Leo Pasvolsky Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution and a Professor at the University of Maryland, Carol has dedicated her career to studying the links between optimism, hope, inequality, and human flourishing. Her groundbreaking research and influential books, including The Power of Hope: How Wellbeing Science Can Save Us from Despair, have shaped global discussions on wellbeing, poverty, and economic inequality.
Victor and Carol explore the relationship between optimism and longevity, focusing on how an optimistic mindset can directly impact physical and mental health. Carol shares insights from her research, showing that individuals with strong optimism are more likely to live longer and lead healthier lives. They discuss how optimism and hope aren't just passive emotions but active mindsets that require agency and determination to achieve aspirations.
The conversation touches on the difference between optimism and hope. Carol says optimism is the belief that good things will happen; hope involves a sense of agency—the belief that one can actively make things better.
Together, they explore how the dynamic interplay between optimism and hope can be harnessed to overcome despair, particularly in the context of socioeconomic challenges, inequality, and the growing levels of perceived mental illness.
Carol also reflects on her extensive research in both the U.S. and developing countries, where she found that optimism is often more prevalent among the poor, especially in countries like Peru and among African Americans in the U.S. She offers valuable insights into why these groups tend to maintain high levels of hope and optimism despite facing significant adversity.
A key highlight of the episode is the discussion about the role of public policy in promoting optimism and hope. Carol argues that governments and institutions can play a critical role in fostering a more optimistic and hopeful society through policies that address despair and create pathways for upward mobility. She emphasizes the need for public health policies to incorporate findings from wellbeing science, particularly concerning improving mental and physical health through fostering optimism and hope.
Victor and Carol explore the profound effects of optimism on social outcomes, innovation, and even national productivity, referencing recent studies that show how countries with higher levels of optimism tend to have more robust economies and innovative capacities. They also touch on the global perspective, considering how optimism can help bridge political divides and foster collaboration on the most pressing global issues, such as inequality and environmental challenges.
This episode provides listeners with a thought-provoking and inspiring exploration of how optimism and hope are vital for individual wellbeing and societal progress. Whether you're interested in the psychology of hope, the science of wellbeing, or the role of optimism in public policy, this conversation with Professor Carol Graham offers profound insights into how we can all build more optimistic, hopeful lives.
Tune in to learn how optimism, backed by scientific research, can be the key to a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling life. Carol's research underscores the immense power of mindset, resilience, and hope in shaping not just personal health but the wellbeing of entire communities and nations. Don't miss this powerful conversation about the transformative role of optimism and hope in the world today.
#optimism #hope #longevity #wellbeing #publicpolicy #mentalhealth #resilience #innovation -
In this episode, Victor Perton speaks with Professor Jessica Koehler, a renowned expert in psychology and an advocate for cultivating optimism. Jessica shares her personal journey from a self-described "worrier" to a learned optimist, discussing how her studies in psychology and life experiences have shaped her optimistic outlook. Despite initial pessimistic tendencies, Jessica has actively worked to "flip the script" and now encourages others to challenge negative thoughts and focus on what they can control in life.
Jessica highlights the significance of optimism as a mindset that can be nurtured, offering practical tips to help listeners shift towards more positive thinking. She emphasises the power of reframing negative thoughts and focusing on aspects of life that are within one's control, especially in challenging situations. Jessica argues that these strategies enhance individual optimism and wellbeing and collectively contribute to a more positive society.
The conversation also delves into the concept of rational optimism. Jessica explains how rational optimism balances hope with realism, advocating for an approach where optimism is grounded in facts and practical solutions. She also comments favourably on The Optimism Principle, agreeing with its assertion that optimism empowers leaders and drives positive change. Jessica and Victor explore how this blend of optimism and realism enables better decision-making, especially in leadership and personal growth, empowering individuals to face challenges with resilience and confidence. This episode offers profound insights and practical advice for those looking to foster optimism in their daily lives and communities. -
In this inspiring episode, Victor Perton sits down with Kevin Novak, CEO of 2040 Digital and author of The Truth About Transformation, and Jeff Kerr-Bell, a leading Australian change executive and co-author of The Optimist Checklist for Success in Transformation and Change Projects. Together, they explore the power of optimism in successful transformation projects.
Kevin shares how his mindset as a Nichiren Buddhist fuels his optimism and problem-solving approach, while Jeff emphasises the importance of realistic optimism and stakeholder engagement in navigating change. The conversation delves into the challenges of fostering optimism in the younger workforce and the role of storytelling in building shared purpose.
Tune in to discover practical insights on leadership, innovation, and the transformative potential of honest optimism. - Se mer
