The Eternal Optimist

Matt Drinkhahn
The Eternal Optimist

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 help you see challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. You’ll start thinking bigger and playing offense in life more consistently. Every week you’ll hear inspiring stories from people who faced immense challenges and KEPT GOING.

  1. The Leadership Toolkit You Didn’t Know You Needed with Amy Chambers

    -4 J

    The Leadership Toolkit You Didn’t Know You Needed with Amy Chambers

    Matt welcomes Amy Chambers, a leader, marathon runner, and advocate for personal growth and transformation. Amy shares her story of overcoming a traumatic breakup that became the catalyst for deep self-reflection, growth, and ultimately a shift in mindset. She and Matt discuss accountability, the role of emotional anchors, and the mindset shifts required to face life’s hardest challenges. Amy opens up about her leadership philosophy, the importance of gratitude, and the lessons learned from running marathons—both on the track and in life. This episode is packed with insights on growth, resilience, and leading with intention. Chapters: 00:00:00 - Fuel for Resilience: The Start of Something Special00:00:35 - The Optimist Meets Amy Chambers00:01:27 - Leadership Redefined: A New Perspective00:06:43 - Why Growth Never Ends00:08:46 - When Life Breaks You: Amy's Story Begins00:13:51 - The Long Road to Transformation00:17:22 - Anchors That Keep Us Afloat00:19:21 - The Surprising Power of a Social Feed00:22:12 - Gratitude: The Morning and Evening Rituals00:24:48 - From Fixed to Growth: A Mindset Shift00:26:22 - Turning Adversity into Opportunity00:34:59 - Stay Connected with Amy Chambers00:36:20 - A Simple Formula: Hope and Belief00:39:21 - Music That Moves Us00:41:50 - What It Means to Be an Eternal Optimist Links and Resources: Amy M. ChambersAmy on LinkedInAmy on InstagramAmy on YouTube Book Recommendations: Areté: Activate Your Heroic Potential by Brian JohnsonMindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol DweckThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey 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!

    43 min
  2. Overcoming Cults, Abuse, and Eating Disorders with Lydia Knight

    7 JANV.

    Overcoming Cults, Abuse, and Eating Disorders with Lydia Knight

    In this deeply moving episode of The Eternal Optimist Podcast, Lydia Knight shares her extraordinary story of surviving a cult upbringing, an abusive marriage, and a life-threatening eating disorder. Through raw vulnerability and unflinching honesty, Lydia takes us on her journey of self-discovery, healing, and transformation. From confronting generational trauma to creating pathways for others to heal, Lydia’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and hope. Her insights into deprogramming harmful belief systems, embracing vulnerability, and finding true freedom make this episode a must-listen for anyone on a healing journey. Chapters: 00:00:00 – A heartfelt welcome to a new year and a powerful dose of eternal optimism.00:00:45 – Meet Lydia Knight: A courageous voice with an extraordinary story of resilience and transformation.00:01:26 – Redefining Eternal Optimism: How hope and growth intersect to create lasting change.00:03:14 – Lydia opens up about her harrowing childhood growing up in a cult and the scars it left behind.00:08:28 – A tearful reunion after 25 years: Lydia’s emotional story of reconnecting with her father.00:14:38 – Breaking free from an abusive marriage: Lydia shares the hard-earned lessons from reclaiming her independence.00:17:36 – From secrecy to freedom: Lydia’s powerful journey of overcoming a life-threatening eating disorder.00:20:09 – Split: Lydia announces her upcoming memoir, a double narrative written with her father.00:23:13 – The hidden epidemic of eating disorders: Why open conversations and real solutions are critical.00:24:23 – Deprogramming harmful beliefs: Lydia explains her approach to healing and breaking free from toxic thought patterns.00:26:45 – A turning point: Lydia reflects on the breakthrough that began her journey to true healing.00:27:09 – Survival mode: How Lydia escaped the mental programming of her cult upbringing.00:28:30 – The power of honesty: Lydia’s life-changing moment of public vulnerability and the ripple effect it created.00:31:21 – Finding your people: The importance of safe spaces and trusted communities for sharing your story.00:33:37 – Healing beyond survival: How dreams and passion can guide the next chapter of your journey.00:35:44 – Returning to the cult: Lydia’s emotional visit back, seeking closure with compassion and grace.00:41:27 – The SHE Center’s mission: Empowering individuals to deprogram from trauma and reclaim their power.00:45:45 – Quickfire wisdom: Lydia shares her favorite books, music, and a heartfelt reflection on eternal optimism. Links And Resources: The She CenterLydia Knight on LinkedInLydia Knight on TikTok Book Recommendations: The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourselfa...

    49 min
  3. Discovering Life’s True Meaning through Extreme Adventures with Matt Dawson

    27/12/2024

    Discovering Life’s True Meaning through Extreme Adventures with Matt Dawson

    Matt sits down with Matt Dawson, a world-record-setting extreme adventurer, speaker, and founder of Dawson’s Peak Foundation. They discuss how Dawson went from a successful yet unfulfilled investment banker to a purpose-driven explorer pushing human limits for a cause bigger than himself. Dawson shares his life-altering moments on Everest, rowing the Atlantic, and crossing the Mojave Desert—stories of resilience, purpose, and finding strength through surrender. Matt explores how Dawson’s lessons from extreme adventures apply to anyone seeking meaning and connection, regardless of their path. It’s a conversation about living with intention, embracing challenges, and understanding that true success lies in service to others. Chapters 00:00:00 — Where Optimism Meets Unstoppable Adventure00:00:23 — The Man with Records, Peaks, and Purpose00:00:54 — The Final Spotlight: No Pressure, Right?00:01:18 — The Field Goal Kick of Life00:01:30 — Unmasking the Real Dawson00:02:41 — World Records, Oceans, and Unfinished Business00:03:35 — The Grand Slam That Almost Was00:05:47 — A Mission Bigger Than Mountains00:08:56 — 213 Miles of Desert Silence00:11:54 — Breaking Down to Break Through00:14:34 — Tears, Everest, and an Oatmeal Epiphany00:19:41 — Turning Pain into Purpose00:21:50 — Your Mountain Might Not Be a Mountain00:23:47 — Beyond Money: A Different Kind of Wealth00:24:52 — The Mirage of More00:25:41 — Stillness is the Loudest Answer00:28:44 — Dawson’s Peak: More Than Just a Name00:31:13 — Training Alone: No Music, No Excuses00:34:49 — Strength Isn’t Always Loud, Surrender Isn’t Always Weak00:41:28 — Wisdom, Books, and the Road Less Climbed Book Recommendations Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor FranklMeditations by Marcus AureliusThe Prophet by Kahlil Gibran Links and Resources Matt DawsonMatt on LinkedInDawson on InstagramStrength in Surrender by Matt DawsonDawson’s Peak Foundation 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!

    45 min
  4. Your Brain, Your Tool: How to Stop Being a Tool of Your Brain with Ellen Petry Leanse

    24/12/2024

    Your Brain, Your Tool: How to Stop Being a Tool of Your Brain with Ellen Petry Leanse

    Matt Drinkhahn sits down with Ellen Petry Leanse for a thoughtful and impactful conversation about the power of curiosity, slowing down, and embracing life’s natural seasons. Ellen shares insights from her deep experience in neuroscience, coaching, and personal reflection, offering practical tools like the ABC method (Aware, Breathe, Curiosity) and the power of open-ended questions to navigate challenges and foster connection. Together, Matt and Ellen explore the idea of the “midlife chrysalis” and how obstacles—especially those within ourselves—can become gifts if we choose to see them that way. This conversation is a guide to approaching life with presence, purpose, and a brain-aware mindset. Chapters 00:00:00 – A Door Opens: Welcome to a Transformative Conversation00:00:24 – Meet Ellen: The Curious Brain Enthusiast00:01:23 – Behind the Brain: Where Science Meets Everyday Life00:03:39 – Curiosity: The Brain’s Hidden Superpower00:06:23 – From Theory to Practice: Curiosity in Action00:09:35 – Life’s Seasons: Navigating Growth and Change00:18:49 – The Chrysalis Moment: Midlife Reimagined00:22:23 – The Zipline Story: A Lesson from the Brink00:24:28 – Pain or Information? Redefining How We Process Suffering00:27:45 – Brain Balance: Finding the Equilibrium We Crave00:29:35 – The Journaling Effect: Magic in Daily Reflection00:32:18 – Core Values: The Blueprint for Inner Peace00:36:05 – The Obstacle Within: Confronting the Self00:37:51 – Dreams and Impact: A Future Worth Building00:39:53 – Final Threads: Wisdom to Carry Forward Book Recommendations I Never Thought of It That Way by Mónica GuzmánThe Source by Dr. Tara Swart Links and Resources Ellen Petry LeanseEllen on LinkedInEllen on InstagramThe Brain and Beyond 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!

    46 min
  5. Law Enforcement, Addiction, and Second Chances with Jeff Fields

    17/12/2024

    Law Enforcement, Addiction, and Second Chances with Jeff Fields

    Matt welcomes Jeff Fields, a former law enforcement officer whose journey took him through the depths of addiction and the fight to reclaim his life. Jeff shares the tough choices he faced, the trauma he carried from both childhood and his career, and the turning points that led him to sobriety. With honesty and heart, Jeff opens up about the impact of his addiction on his family, the critical role of faith in his recovery, and the lessons he’s learned about resilience, humility, and the power of moving forward. It's a talk about struggle, redemption, and the strength it takes to rewrite your story. Chapters 00:00:00 – A Guest with a Serendipitous Story00:00:43 – Jeff Fields: A Life Unfiltered00:00:58 – The Moment Sobriety Became Non-Negotiable00:01:55 – Behind the Badge: A Career in Shadows00:02:44 – When Two Worlds Collide: A Law Enforcement Love Story00:03:40 – The Cost of Addiction: A Family’s Turning Point00:06:49 – Unpacking the Past: Therapy’s Hardest Questions00:13:29 – Duty and Darkness: What Law Enforcement Leaves Behind00:16:41 – Ghosts of the Past: Confronting Childhood Trauma00:18:48 – Fragmented Memories, Whole Truths00:19:12 – Naming Demons: Trauma and Addiction’s Link00:20:39 – The Withdrawal Nobody Warns You About00:22:20 – On the Brink: Detox and Survival00:24:07 – Presence: The Gift That Changes Everything00:25:37 – Sobriety Is a Daily Battle, Not a One-Time Win00:27:57 – From Cop to Author: Sharing the Unvarnished Truth00:31:47 – Books That Heal and Inspire: Jeff’s Picks Book Recommendations The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk M.D.Dangerous Prayers by Craig GroeschelThe Bible Links and Resources Jeff FieldsJeff on LinkedInSober from Sin13:33 Consulting 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!

    36 min
  6. When Motherhood Meets Meltdowns and Metrics with Cheryl A. Heller

    13/12/2024

    When Motherhood Meets Meltdowns and Metrics with Cheryl A. Heller

    Matt welcomes Cheryl A. Heller to hear how she went from corporate executive to fractional CFO and strategic advisor. They explore the really hard times behind balancing a demanding career with family challenges, including how Cheryl supported her daughter through anxiety and personal growth. Cheryl shares insights for business owners, from understanding financial metrics to setting up KPIs that drive success. The conversation also touches on building resilience, managing burnout, and finding clarity in chaos. It’s an honest look at the lessons learned through challenges and how they shape leadership and life. Chapters 00:00:00 - Where It All Begins00:00:39 - Who Is Cheryl Heller?00:01:06 - From Corporate Walls to New Horizons00:02:08 - Numbers Tell a Story00:02:41 - The Chaos We Carry00:04:10 - Breaking Through Family Storms00:13:03 - The Leap Into Entrepreneurship00:15:41 - Inside the CFO Mindset00:22:13 - Success Beyond the Spreadsheet00:25:13 - Wisdom Worth Sharing00:28:52 - Rapid Reflections and Closing Notes Book Recommendations All books authored by Dan SullivanThe 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss Links and Resources Cheryl on LinkedInCheryl on InstagramDemystifying Financial Jargon: 30 Terms You Need to KnowStrategic Board CollectivePillar One Consulting 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!

    32 min
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À propos

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 help you see challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. You’ll start thinking bigger and playing offense in life more consistently. Every week you’ll hear inspiring stories from people who faced immense challenges and KEPT GOING.

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