The Eternal Optimist
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The Eternal Optimist episodes

  • Navigating Cancer, Inspiring through Words, and Leading a Cause with Amy Post

    Amy Post joins us today to tell us about her harrowing yet inspiring journey. Faced with her daughter's cancer diagnosis, Amy's world was turned upside down, leading her down a path of despair, resilience, and ultimately, advocacy. Her story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of faith in overcoming life's greatest challenges. As Amy opens up about her struggles and triumphs, listeners will be touched by her message of hope, strength, and the importance of advocacy in the face of adversity.

    Chapters:

    • 00:00:00 - Opening: Welcoming Amy Post, A Beacon of Hope
    • 00:01:51 - Beginnings of a Heartrending Journey: Amy's Story
    • 00:04:03 - Facing a Daughter's Illness: Challenges and Resilience
    • 00:05:48 - From Pain to Purpose: How Suffering Led Amy to Her True Calling
    • 00:17:37 - Love and Support: The Role of Amy's Marriage
    • 00:22:39 - Guiding Lights: Amy's Advice for Overcoming Adversity
    • 00:24:04 - Faith as a Sanctuary: Finding Peace Amidst Chaos
    • 00:26:24 - The Art of Letting Go: Amy's Path to Forgiveness
    • 00:28:34 - Inspiration in Words: Introducing Amy's Book
    • 00:31:05 - Rising from Ashes: Starting an Advocacy Nonprofit
    • 00:35:14 - The Strength of Now: Amy's Insights on Faith and Living
    • 00:43:54 - Healing Melodies: The Power of Books and Music
    • 00:47:51 - Concluding Thoughts: Embracing Eternal Optimism

    Links And Resources:

    • Out of the Gray, into the Light written by Amy D. Post
    • Advocacy and Hope on Facebook
    • YouTube
    • Website
    • LinkedIn

    Book Recommendations:

    • The Marriage Devotional written by Levi and Jennie Lusko
    • The Fight to Flourish written by Jennie Lusko
    • 2 Chairs written by Bob Beaudine

    Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to Eternal Optimist? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on iTunes and leave us a review!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Buy Book on Amazon!!

    50 min
  • Balancing Family, Faith, and Business with Alex Pardo

    Alex Pardo gives us a deep look into his remarkable journey from a high-achieving entrepreneur in real estate to a life more aligned with personal fulfillment and growth. Alex opens up about his challenging experiences with the IRS, providing invaluable insights into the importance of financial awareness and responsibility. He further discusses the profound impact of personal development books and the importance of having a vision beyond material success. This episode is not just about business acumen; it's a deep dive into the essence of what makes life meaningful beyond the metrics of success.

    Chapters:

    • 00:00:00 - Welcome: Meet Alex Pardo, Entrepreneurial Trailblazer
    • 00:02:11 - Optimizing Your Day: Insights into Effective Morning Routines
    • 00:04:05 - Lifelong Learning: Embracing Reading for Growth
    • 00:10:12 - Entrepreneurial Odyssey: Alex's Real Estate Ventures and Challenges
    • 00:12:32 - Navigating Financial Hurdles: Confronting IRS Debt
    • 00:17:51 - Shifting Gears: Alex's Journey to Business and Personal Alignment
    • 00:23:03 - Striking the Balance: Managing Business with Personal Well-being
    • 00:25:01 - Vision in Action: Leveraging Proximity and Goal Visualization
    • 00:28:26 - Authenticity Unleashed: Its Impact in Life and Business
    • 00:32:19 - Community Power: The Influence of Masterminds
    • 00:37:25 - Beyond the Business Card: Separating Identity from Profession
    • 00:41:07 - The Art of Giving: Exploring Personal Development Pathways
    • 00:42:56 - Wrapping Up: Key Takeaways and Reflective Insights

    Links And Resources:

    • LinkedIn
    • Instagram
    • Alex’s Website
    • Watch Alex Pardo on YouTube
    • Ascend Your Success
    • FlipEmpire

    Recommended Books:

    • The Bible
    • The Wealthy Gardener by John Soforic
    • The Go-Giver by Bob Burg and John David Mann

    Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to Eternal Optimist? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on iTunes and leave us a review!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Buy Book on Amazon!!

    45 min
  • Love, Sales, and Consciousness with Jason Marc Campbell

    Jason Marc Campbell, a renowned figure in the sales domain and the author of "Selling with Love." Jason shares his transformative journey, revealing how he overcame initial fears and anxieties to master the art of sales with a blend of authenticity, positivity, and love. His unique approach highlights the crucial role of mindset and psychology in sales, transcending conventional tactics. Jason's story is not just about sales techniques but a deeper exploration of integrating sales with spirituality, aiming to elevate human consciousness. Jason really offers invaluable insights into turning challenges into opportunities and leveraging experiences for profound personal and professional growth.

    Chapters:

    • 00:00:00 - Welcoming Jason Marc Campbell to The Eternal Optimist
    • 00:01:17 - Exploring Positive Expectations in Sales
    • 00:04:47 - Preparation: A Key to Sales Success
    • 00:06:27 - Attitude's Influence on Sales Outcomes
    • 00:08:14 - Tackling Fear and Rejection in the Sales Journey
    • 00:16:48 - Mindset and Psychology: Essentials in Sales
    • 00:22:52 - The Crucial Role of Joy in Business Endeavors
    • 00:26:54 - The 'Selling with Love' Concept
    • 00:27:34 - Solving Global Consciousness Crisis through Positivity
    • 00:30:27 - The Origins of Jason's Podcasting Journey
    • 00:37:49 - The Adventure of Writing and Publishing a Book
    • 00:39:23 - Confronting Launch Anxiety: Strategies for Overcoming Fear
    • 00:42:57 - Networking and Collaboration: Meeting Scribe
    • 00:47:51 - Upholding Optimism: The Podcast's Core Message

    Links And Resources:

    • Jason's Website
    • LinkedIn
    • Instagram
    • Twitter
    • Selling with Love on Amazon
    • Selling with Love Podcast
    • Jason Marc Campbell on YouTube

    Recommended Books:

    • The 4-Hour Work Week by Timothy Ferriss
    • Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
    • The Success Principles by Jack Canfield

    Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to Eternal Optimist? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on iTunes and leave us a review!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Buy Book on Amazon!!

    50 min
  • A Story of Tragedy, Triumph, and Trekking Across the U.S. with James Thompson

    James Thompson shares his remarkable journey walking across America, a venture sparked by personal tragedy and a quest for connection during tumultuous times. From the deserts of Nevada to the streets of D.C., James's trek is a testament to resilience, human kindness, and the power of optimism. He recounts encounters with diverse Americans, from ex-convicts turned good Samaritans to law enforcement officers offering unexpected aid, painting a picture of a country rich in complexity and compassion. This episode is not just about a physical journey, but also an exploration of the human spirit's capacity for hope and healing.

    Chapters:

    • 00:00:00 - Introduction: Meet James Thompson
    • 00:02:15 - Setting Off: The First Steps of the American Journey
    • 00:03:54 - Bonds Along the Way: Encounters with Diverse Americans
    • 00:07:12 - Overcoming Obstacles: Tales of Resilience on the Road
    • 00:15:43 - Nature's Test: Braving the Elements in Nebraska
    • 00:19:03 - Acts of Generosity: Experiencing American Kindness
    • 00:20:31 - The Final Leg: Emotional Arrival in D.C. and Virginia Beach
    • 00:22:12 - Looking Back: Insights and Aspirations Post-Journey

    Links And Resources:

    • LinkedIn
    • Instagram

    Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to Eternal Optimist? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on iTunes and leave us a review!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Buy Book on Amazon!!

    30 min
  • Steve Cook on Being an Outsider, a Non-Linear Thinker, and a Systemic Strategist

    Steve Cook, a grand strategist, a conceptual thinker, and a creative rebel. Steve shares his incredible life story, from his childhood in London as a homeless punk, to his education in a radical art school, to his career in advertising, strategy, and social impact. Steve reveals how he overcame trauma, violence, and injustice, and how he developed his unique brain that sees patterns, links, and contexts in a broken society. Steve also talks about his passion for social justice, his vision for a democracy, and his advice for raising enthusiastic children. Steve and Matt have a fascinating and inspiring conversation that will challenge your assumptions, expand your horizons, and ignite your imagination.

    Chapters:

    • 00:00:00 - Introduction to Steve Cook: From Homeless Punk to Grand Strategist
    • 00:02:01 - Exploring London's Punk Scene: Steve's Early Life
    • 00:06:21 - Reflecting on Rock Against Racism and Social Activism
    • 00:09:25 - Journey to Radical Art School: Education and Creative Growth
    • 00:11:14 - Overcoming Trauma: Surviving a Devastating Car Crash
    • 00:15:26 - Breaking into the Advertising World: A Rebel's Perspective
    • 00:19:04 - Decoding Steve's Mind: Seeing Patterns in a Fractured World
    • 00:23:28 - Family Life: Raising Enthusiastic Children Amidst Challenges
    • 00:27:36 - Nurturing Creativity and Individuality in Kids
    • 00:30:37 - Challenging Societal Conformity: A Maverick's View
    • 00:33:48 - Recognizing Systemic Failures: A Strategist's Insight
    • 00:34:24 - Advocating for Social Justice and Democratic Change
    • 00:37:56 - Language as a Tool for Empowerment and Change
    • 00:44:15 - The Essence of Collaboration and Collective Creativity
    • 00:46:21 - Empowering Ordinary People to Drive Social Change
    • 00:52:59 - Influences of Literature and Music on Steve's Life
    • 00:54:38 - Embracing Eternal Optimism: Finding Hope in Adversity

    Links And Resources:

    • LinkedIn
    • Blog
    • The Daunted on Medium
    • The Undaunted

    Recommended Books:

    • Catch 22 by Joseph Heller
    • Art of War by Sun Tzu

    Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to Eternal Optimist? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on iTunes and leave us a review!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Buy Book on Amazon!!

    56 min
  • Striking Balance: Media, Motherhood, and Entrepreneurship with Ronica Cleary

    Ronica Cleary, a former White House correspondent and an award-winning publicist. Ronica shares her fairy tale story of how she got into television, how she covered some of the most memorable moments in politics, and how she left TV to start her own PR agency, Cleary Strategies. Ronica reveals how she overcame the identity crisis that came with leaving TV, how she found her niche in helping people and brands navigate the media, and how she applies the concept of being perfectly adequate to her work and life. Ronica also gives us some insights into the media landscape, the challenges and opportunities of being an entrepreneur, and the importance of gratitude and optimism.

    Chapters:

    • 00:00:00 - Introduction to TV Journalism: A Beginning
    • 00:02:58 - Dream Realized: The White House Correspondence
    • 00:03:20 - The Enchanting Journey in Television
    • 00:07:45 - Exploring the Highs and Lows of Journalism
    • 00:10:23 - Memorable Moments from the White House
    • 00:14:19 - Mastering the Art of Questioning
    • 00:16:03 - Perfectionism in the News World: Boon or Bane?
    • 00:16:30 - Reflections on a Storied White House Experience
    • 00:22:36 - Pivoting from Journalism to Public Relations
    • 00:24:21 - Addressing Identity Shifts Post-TV Career
    • 00:26:43 - Launching a PR Agency: A New Venture
    • 00:30:07 - Identifying and Engaging Ideal Clients
    • 00:37:45 - Growth Through Reading and Networking
    • 00:44:30 - Strategies for Work-Life Balance
    • 00:46:05 - Embracing Eternal Optimism: A Personal Secret

    Links And Resources:

    • LinkedIn
    • Clearly Strategies

    Recommended Books:

    • The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
    • One Bold Move a Day by Shanna A. Hocking
    • A to Z of Detoxing by Sophia Gushee

    Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to Eternal Optimist? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on iTunes and leave us a review!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Buy Book on Amazon!!

    48 min
  • Drive, Determination, and the PGA Dream with Johnson Wagner

    Join Matt Drinkhahn on the Eternal Optimist Podcast as he welcomes Johnson Wagner, a former PGA Tour champion and a current Golf Channel analyst. Johnson opens up about his amazing golf journey, from being a late bloomer in junior golf to winning three PGA Tour events and playing in the majors. He also shares how he made the leap from the green to the screen, and how he found joy and satisfaction in his new role as a broadcaster. Along the way, Johnson reveals the secrets to his success and happiness, such as his work ethic, his mindset, his skills, and his passion for the game. He also talks about his family, his hobbies, his goals, and his favorite things.

    Chapters:

    • 00:00:00 - Welcome to the Show: Introducing Johnson Wagner
    • 00:01:44 - Grit from the Start: Wagner's Formative Years
    • 00:04:44 - Virginia Tech Days: Building a Foundation for Success
    • 00:06:56 - Peaks and Valleys: The Rollercoaster of Pro Golf
    • 00:08:06 - Family Ties: Balancing Golf and Personal Life
    • 00:14:30 - Major Moments: Strategies in Big Tournaments
    • 00:18:24 - New Horizons: Shifting from Greens to the Studio
    • 00:20:09 - Behind the Scenes: The Excitement of Live Broadcasting
    • 00:22:28 - Crafting Excellence: Preparing for Success On and Off the Course
    • 00:25:08 - A Golfer’s Path: Tracking Wagner’s Career Journey
    • 00:29:05 - Personal Passions: Wagner's Love for the Game and Beyond
    • 00:30:55 - Off the Course: Wagner's Favorite Films and Music
    • 00:31:44 - Defining Optimism: Wagner's Life Philosophy

    Links And Resources:

    • LinkedIn
    • PGA Tour
    • 5 Clubs Golf
    • 5 Clubs Golf Podcast on YouTube
    • PGA Tour Radio - Gravy and the Sleeze
    • Golf Channel

    Recommended Book:

    • Empire of the Summer Moon by S. C. Gwynne

    Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to Eternal Optimist? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on iTunes and leave us a review!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Buy Book on Amazon!!

    34 min
  • How to Deal with Stress, Loss, and Leverage with Hunter Durham

    Hunter Durham, a young entrepreneur who has experienced the highs and lows of business. Hunter shares his story of how he went from working at Facebook to buying four businesses for 3.8 million dollars, only to lose them all to bankruptcy. He reveals how he dealt with the stress, pain, and loss of his businesses, and how he found hope and joy in his faith, family, and community. He also explains his vision to impact the world through business, and how he is launching a new venture to help small businesses in distress. Hunter is an eternal optimist who has a lot of wisdom and insight to offer to anyone who wants to learn from his mistakes and successes.

    Chapters:

    • 00:00:00 - Welcoming Hunter Durham The Eternal Optimist
    • 00:01:26 - Learning about business and sales through selling knives.
    • 00:03:47 - Pursuing a vision of impact industry and acquiring multiple businesses.
    • 00:12:09 - Facing the loss of businesses and filing for bankruptcy.
    • 00:18:16 - Coping with the stress, pain, and emotions of bankruptcy.
    • 00:20:35 - Learning from mistakes and gaining wisdom from bankruptcy.
    • 00:23:08 - Sharing top three lessons from bankruptcy for entrepreneurs.
    • 00:29:56 - Plans to impact the world through business and help others in distress.
    • 00:32:04 - Valuing family and children and integrating them into business.
    • 00:36:48 - Maintaining a positive outlook and learning from every experience.
    • 00:37:39 - Enjoying music and balancing optimism with realism.
    • 00:38:26 - Defining eternal optimism and its personal meaning.

    Links And Resources:

    • LinkedIn
    • Instagram
    • Twitter
    • Schedule a Call with Hunter

    Recommended Book

    • Gulliver's Travels by Jonathan Swift

    Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to Eternal Optimist? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on iTunes and leave us a review!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Buy Book on Amazon!!

    41 min
  • Embracing Abundance and Achieving Peace through Permaculture with Jim Gale

    Matt Drinkhahn welcomes visionary Jim Gale to discuss transformative approaches to global challenges. Gale, with his deep insights, explores the transformative power of permaculture, emphasizing the crucial role of aligning human endeavors with nature's wisdom. He illuminates how tapping into the collective human consciousness can pave the way for a harmonious, sustainable world. Gale's unique perspective challenges traditional views, urging listeners to embrace spiritual enlightenment and proactive environmental stewardship. He stands as a beacon of hope, inspiring a journey towards a more interconnected and abundant future.

    Chapters:

    • 00:00:00 - Welcoming Jim Gale: A Visionary's Insight
    • 00:01:49 - Exploring Jim Gale's Life Philosophy
    • 00:03:40 - Energy, Frequency, and Vibration: A Deeper Look
    • 00:04:45 - Embracing the Power of Presence
    • 00:05:48 - Jim's Journey Through Challenges
    • 00:08:03 - Debunking Myths of Global Control
    • 00:09:25 - Entrepreneurship: Triumphs and Trials
    • 00:14:21 - Encounters with Government and Financial Extortion
    • 00:17:07 - Challenging Taxation and Government Overreach
    • 00:18:06 - Enlightenment and the Illusion of Mind Control
    • 00:20:28 - Rethinking American Lawn Culture
    • 00:22:39 - Building Your Own Food Forest
    • 00:27:13 - Confronting Fears in Sustainable Practices
    • 00:31:17 - Expanding Food Forests Across Industries
    • 00:33:15 - Inspirations: Books and Music That Shape Thoughts
    • 00:34:31 - Defining 'Eternal Optimism' and Its Significance

    Links And Resources:

    • LinkedIn
    • Food Forest Abundance
    • Food Forest Abundance Minnesota YouTube

    Recommended Books

    • Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
    • Power vs. Force by David R. Hawkins M.D. Ph.D

    Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to Eternal Optimist? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on iTunes and leave us a review!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Buy Book on Amazon!!

    36 min
  • From Logic to Love: Engineering a Life of Purpose and Passion with Zach White

    Zach White, a mechanical engineer turned life coach, who shares his poignant journey from the depths of despair following a divorce to finding love and purpose again. Zach's story is one of transformation, resilience, and hope, as he navigates through personal and professional upheavals. His insights into the power of self-reflection, the importance of supportive relationships, and the art of turning adversity into opportunity are not only inspiring but deeply relatable. Listeners will be moved by Zach's candid sharing of his struggles and triumphs, making this episode a beacon of optimism for anyone facing life's challenges.

    Chapters:

    • 00:00:00 - Introduction to Zach White: Engineer Turned Life Coach
    • 00:02:50 - Overcoming Despair: Zach's Divorce Journey
    • 00:07:58 - Finding Love Again: The Start of Zach and Johanna's Relationship
    • 00:12:21 - Strengthening Bonds: Relationship Growth and Challenges
    • 00:15:47 - Engineering a New Path: Zach's Career and Personal Development
    • 00:18:28 - Launching a Coaching Career: Zach's Bold Decision
    • 00:20:16 - Embracing Lifestyle Engineering: Zach's Unique Approach
    • 00:23:28 - Inside the Coaching World: Setting Expectations and Embracing Reality
    • 00:27:42 - Connect with Zach: Online Resources and Insights
    • 00:28:37 - Engineer-Friendly Insights: The Lightning Round Zone
    • 00:35:49 - Defining Eternal Optimism: Zach's Perspective on Life and Hope

    Links And Resources:

    • Text LIFESTYLE to 55444 for a free coaching session -- Oasis of Courage
    • Instagram
    • Facebook
    • LinkedIn

    Recommended Books:

    • The Bible
    • Awaken the Giant Within by Tony Robbins
    • How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

    Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to Eternal Optimist? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on iTunes and leave us a review!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Buy Book on Amazon!!

    39 min

About The Eternal Optimist

From the publisher's feed

The ‘Eternal Optimist’ is the show for people who see the good in the world and want to make a positive difference in the lives of their families and communities! Twice a week Matt Drinkhahn will…