A Pessimist's Guide to Optimism

Jim Schneider

There are plenty of reasons to feel discouraged and gloomy. Huge challenges like climate, social justice, equity, religion, politics, and culture threaten to bring civilization down, but there is always space for hope. Host Jim Schneider is a writer, parent and optimism-curious pessimist seeking the bright side. This podcast will speak with experts, doers and thinkers who are making a difference in the world and share ways we can see the glass as half full and work toward positive change.

Episodes

  1. Our Interconnected Planet: Climate Insights from Dr. Lisa Gardiner

    FEB 28

    Our Interconnected Planet: Climate Insights from Dr. Lisa Gardiner

    In this episode, host Jim Schneider speaks with Dr. Lisa Gardiner, a science writer, educator, and scientist, about climate change and resilience. Gardiner shares insights from her books, Reefs of Time and Tales from an Uncertain World, discussing the parallels between past and present environmental challenges. The conversation covers the interconnectedness of ecosystems, the importance of both climate mitigation and adaptation, and inspiring examples of resilience from both humans and coral reefs. Tune in to learn about the resilience strategies that can help us face the ongoing climate crisis and find optimism amidst adversity.   Guest Bio: Dr. Lisa S. Gardiner is a science writer, educator, and scientist. Her second nonfiction book, Reefs of Time: What Fossils Reveal about Coral Survival, will be available in June 2025. She’s also the author of the award-winning book, Tales from an Uncertain World: What Other Assorted Disasters Can Teach Us About Climate Change.  Lisa aims to help curious readers learn how our planet works and how our actions affect climate, oceans, and ecosystems. In addition to writing, she teaches workshops and works with science education projects to create tools for learning such as curriculum and museum exhibits. She has developed graphics for exhibits, illustrations for books, and science comics. Before moving to freelancing, Lisa led a team at the UCAR Center for Science Education where she managed projects funded by the National Science Foundation, NOAA, and NASA.   She holds a PhD in geoscience (with a focus on paleoecology) from the University of Georgia, an MFA in nonfiction writing from Goucher College, and an BA in geology and marine science from Smith College.  Preorder Lisa's brand new book,  Reefs of Time: What Fossils Reveal about Coral Survival here!  Also check out Lisa's first book, Tales from an Uncertain World: What Other Assorted Disasters Can Teach Us About Climate Change.   "Half-Full Mic" concept and logo art by Artemis Sere of Seretic Studios. Music by Roman Senyk from Pixabay

    49 min
  2. Advocacy in Action and the Future of Healthcare: A Conversation with Liz Schumacher

    JAN 10

    Advocacy in Action and the Future of Healthcare: A Conversation with Liz Schumacher

    In this episode, host Jim Schneider kicks off the year 2025 by exploring optimism in healthcare with guest Liz Schumacher, CEO and founder of Affinity Strategies. Liz, a healthcare entrepreneur and patient advocate with over 25 years of experience and a personal journey that includes multiple kidney transplants, shares insights on the challenges and advancements in the healthcare industry. The discussion covers the state of healthcare, patient advocacy, the role of AI, and the impact of regulatory issues. They also touch on the recent controversial assassination of the UnitedHealthcare CEO and what it means for the future of healthcare. A deep dive into balancing resilience, advocacy, and optimism in the face of ongoing challenges.   00:00 Welcome to A Pessimist's Guide to Optimism 00:53 Introducing Liz Schumacher: A Healthcare Visionary 01:53 A Personal Connection: Jim and Liz's Shared History 02:53 Liz's Journey in Healthcare and Advocacy 04:44 Facing Health Challenges: Liz's Resilience and Strength 16:28 Balancing Professional and Personal Life 24:48 The State of the Healthcare Industry 26:04 Introduction to SENTAC Society 26:28 Top Healthcare Issues of 2024 28:32 The Role of AI in Healthcare 29:50 Access to Medications and Telemedicine 30:55 Patient Voice and Sustainable Medicine 33:33 Complexities of the Healthcare System 42:11 Advocating for Yourself in Healthcare 43:24 Reflections on Healthcare and Society 51:38 Closing Thoughts and Future Episodes   Resources:    Check out Liz's company, Affinity Strategies, here.

    53 min

  3. 12/09/2024

    The Intersection of Religion, Politics, and Society: A Conversation with Dr. Amanda Henderson

    In this episode, Jim welcomes Rev. Dr. Amanda Henderson, Ph.D., Director of the Institute for Religion, Politics & Culture at Iliff School of Theology, host of the podcast "Complexified" and author of Holy Chaos: Creating Connections in Divisive Times. They discuss the complex relationships between religion, politics, and society, particularly focusing on how personal beliefs shape public policies and vice versa. They explore how rigid ideologies and lack of relational engagement contribute to societal conflicts. Amanda emphasizes the importance of understanding and negotiating diverse viewpoints to coexist peacefully. The conversation also touches on the role of joy and resilience in facing hardships, with examples from marginalized communities. Amanda's relational theology views God as an interconnected force, emphasizing the importance of embracing diversity and human connections. Bio: Dr. Amanda Henderson is the Director of the Institute for Religion, Politics, and Culture at the Iliff School of Theology, where she leads research exploring the relationship between religion and politics. With a focus on informing public leaders, the Institute works for transformative action rooted in deep understanding. Amanda has a Ph.D. in religion, politics, and rhetoric from the University of Denver and served for seven years as the Executive Director of The Interfaith Alliance of Colorado. She is the author of "Holy Chaos: Creating Connections in Divisive Times" and hosts the Complexified podcast. Amanda lives in Littleton, Colorado, is a parent to three young adults, enjoys adventures with her husband, and finds joy running trails and growing things: dogs, chickens, gardens, and creative projects of all kinds. Check out Amanda's book, Holy Chaos: Creating Connections in Divisive Times.  Listen to her podcast, Complexified, on Apple, Spotify or anywhere you get your podcasts. "Half-Full Mic" concept and logo art by Artemis Sere of Seretic Studios. Music by Roman Senyk from Pixabay

    53 min
  4. Reimagining Masculinity: A Conversation with MenLiving's Shaun Emerson

    10/26/2024

    Reimagining Masculinity: A Conversation with MenLiving's Shaun Emerson

    In this episode, host Jim Schneider and his guest, MenLiving President Shaun Emerson, explore the evolving concepts of masculinity and emotional expression. The episode explores challenging traditional ideas of stoicism and isolation and emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, authenticity, and genuine connections among men. The discussion highlights how societal pressures and cultural constructs impact men’s mental health and their roles in society. Topics also include the intersection of politics and gender roles, and initiatives like MenLiving's 'The Bridge,' which aims to provide healthier role models for young men.  Episode Notes: For over twenty-five years, Shaun Emerson worked in the technology space, both as employee and as entrepreneur. He managed personnel and processes in sales, marketing, and operations. He started and led businesses in both the for-profit and the nonprofit sectors. Today, Shaun dedicates his time to nonprofit initiatives. He has served in board leadership and other volunteer roles in several organizations. He currently serves as President of MenLiving. In 2012, Shaun discovered the transformational practice of yoga. Moved by the philosophy and power of the practice, he trained to guide others. He has lead yoga and meditation classes since. Shaun grew up in New England and graduated with a BA in Sociology from the College of the Holy Cross. He has lived in the Chicago area since 1986. He is a father of three and has been married to his wife, Lisa, since 1993. Shaun and Lisa split their time between Glen Ellyn, Illinois, and Palm Springs, California. Resources: MenLiving: https://menliving.org/ If You've Come This Far podcast, hosted by Shaun Emerson and Chris Lozier: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/if-youve-come-this-far/id1566958510 Zen Parenting Radio podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/zen-parenting-radio/id414414318  Bright Poems For Dark Days: An Anthology for Hope, by Julie Sutherland, Carolyn Gavin (Illustrator). https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/bright-poems-for-dark-days-julie-sutherland/1139558738

    49 min
  5. Architectural Futures: AI, Community, and Creativity with Matthias Hollwich

    10/17/2024

    Architectural Futures: AI, Community, and Creativity with Matthias Hollwich

    In this episode, host Jim Schneider talks witharchitect Matthias Hollwich, discussing his global journey and experiences with an emphasis on humility, adaptability, and understanding community needs. The conversation covers the groundbreaking role of artificial intelligence in enhancing creativity, sustainability, and social aspects of architecture. The discussion also addresses societal issues like aging, segregation, and promotes multigenerational living spaces and community interactions. Matthias discusses the responsibility architects have in creating inclusive, intergenerational living spaces.   Episode Notes: Matthias Hollwich is the founder of HWKN, a NY-based collective of architects, sculptors, social strategists and innovators dedicated to using architecture to shape a better world. Matthias was born and raised in Germany where he studied architecture and brings a dual perspective to all the firm’s designs, combining German precision with American aspiration. He was honored in Fast Company’s ranking of the world’s Top 10 Most Innovative Architects and in Business Insider’s list of Top Business Visionaries. Matthias Hollwich published his first book UmBauhaus- Updating Modernism in collaboration with Rainer Weisbach and the Bauhaus Foundation in 2006. His latest book, New Aging: Live Smarter Now to Live Better Forever, suggests a new way to think about aging that could fundamentally change the way we design for it. Matthias lectures widely on the topics of architecture, sustainability, aging and innovation at world-renowned conferences, including TED, PICNIC, Stelka, and the Conscious City conference. In 2019 he spoke at me Convention about “Unforgettable Architecture”. Resources: Matthias's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthias-hollwich-91859b/  HWKN: https://hwkn.com/ Immersive Condos: At HWKN Architecture, we’re at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge AI technology with architectural design. In our latest experiment we are crafting distinctive branded residences that not only stand out in the competitive real estate market but also resonate deeply with the essence of different brands. Our unique approach leverages AI-driven conceptualization to innovate and refine designs, ensuring each project we undertake is a testament to the brand it represents. https://hwkn.com/projects/branded-condos/ Matthias's books. New Aging: Live Smarter Now to Live Better Forever: https://www.amazon.com/New-Aging-Smarter-Better-Forever/dp/0143128108  Umbauhaus: Updating Modernism: https://www.amazon.com/UmBauhaus-Aktualisierung-Moderne-Bauhaus-German/dp/3936314969/ref=sr_1_3?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.SNf_Rg9TcVpXQJFRCG1JW1xocfx1aT0FZZ1ZiCYOUKf3Z8FwHVMl-Inikuh7ympaJFir3a2-MN76f_x8t6fqmfm5gFplAD48J5k9R5RSp7mXFAJebifrFwVKXTA2xeI3zK28L97SZCWBSXj0NS1NHFKickkMnrbsKF7qZRFJedjMPmvLu8AQfCqHaL9ZtCHK1FcWTxNB87KuCDDfy8QVgA.6RqdC4MJIniBjdHtWysoMveiHv2m5W98UIcTmC-yRVw&dib_tag=se&qid=1729265211&refinements=p_27%3AMatthias+Hollwich&s=books&sr=1-3&text=Matthias+Hollwich   Film Recommendation: Sing, Sing. Divine G (Colman Domingo), imprisoned at Sing Sing for a crime he didn't commit, finds purpose by acting in a theatre group with other incarcerated men. Will be available to stream soon on Apple TV. https://tv.apple.com/us/movie/sing-sing/umc.cmc.atdj6ejkq02lhmynwhilukm0

    53 min

  6. 10/04/2024

    Cultivating a Culture of Kindness: A Conversation with Columnist Heidi Stevens

    In the first episode, host Jim Schneider welcomes renowned columnist Heidi Stevens. Heidi is the Director of External Affairs at the University of Chicago’s TMW Center for Early Learning + Public Health, a research institute that works to optimize brain development for all children. Prior to joining University of Chicago, Heidi worked at the Chicago Tribune for 23 years as a writer and editor. For the past decade she wrote a daily column called Balancing Act. She maintains a nationally syndicated column once a week and serves on the Board of Directors for FAN, a Chicago-area speaker series, and the Ross K. MacNeill Foundation, which works to raise money and awareness for pediatric brain cancer research.   Heidi discusses her approach to writing about challenging societal issues with positivity and inclusivity. Their conversation touches on her experiences in journalism, her dedication to highlighting vulnerable populations, and the importance of maintaining hope in the face of adversity. Heidi shares personal anecdotes and insights on finding beauty and community in unexpected places, while advocating for a more empathetic and human-centered approach to societal challenges. The episode concludes with an invitation to follow Heidi’s work. Check out Heidi's columns at https://www.chicagotribune.com/author/heidi-stevens/. Join her Facebook group, Balancing Act. Take in amazing sunrise photos and insightful commentary by following Heidi on social media.  Twitter: @HeidiStevens13 Instagram: @heidikstevens "Half-Full Mic" concept and logo art by Artemis Sere of Seretic Studios. Music by Roman Senyk from Pixabay

    47 min

  7. SEASON 1 TRAILER

    Introduction

    Jim Schneider introduces "A Pessimist's Guide to Optimism," a podcast aimed at exploring optimism in challenging times. As a self-admitted pessimist with a background of viewing the world through a lens of scarcity and threats, Jim seeks conversations with optimists and forward-thinkers to learn new perspectives. The podcast will feature a variety of topics including societal issues, innovation, and environmental adaptation, intending to inspire and inform listeners about the possibilities for a hopeful future.  "Half-Full Mic" concept and logo art by Artemis Sere of Seretic Studios.

    13 min

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

There are plenty of reasons to feel discouraged and gloomy. Huge challenges like climate, social justice, equity, religion, politics, and culture threaten to bring civilization down, but there is always space for hope. Host Jim Schneider is a writer, parent and optimism-curious pessimist seeking the bright side. This podcast will speak with experts, doers and thinkers who are making a difference in the world and share ways we can see the glass as half full and work toward positive change.

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