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.
A Pessimist's Guide to Optimism
Claim This Podcastby Jim Schneider
5.0(6 reviews)
7 episodes
Updated Bi-weekly
Accepts GuestsHas Sponsors
17
Podcast Authority
BetaPoorBased on show quality, social media presence, reviews, charts, and more
Quality22
Social0
YouTube0
Engagement32
Podcast Overview
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.
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
10/4/2024
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17
Podcast Authority
BetaPoorBased on show quality, social media presence, reviews, charts, and more
Quality22
Social0
YouTube0
Engagement32
6
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1
Good Performance
12
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excellent
Episode Length
30 minutes
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good
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6.5/10
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Every 21 days
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Recent Episodes
February 28, 2025
Our Interconnected Planet: Climate Insights from Dr. Lisa Gardiner
<div>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.</div> <div> </div> <div> <p><strong>Guest Bio:</strong></p> <p>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. </p> <p>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.<br /> <br /> 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. </p> <p>Preorder Lisa's brand new book, <a href= "https://lisagardiner.com/reefs-of-time.html">Reefs of Time: What Fossils Reveal about Coral Survival here! </a></p> <p>Also check out Lisa's first book, <a href= "https://www.amazon.com/Tales-Uncertain-World-Assorted-Disasters/dp/1609385535"> Tales from an Uncertain World: What Other Assorted Disasters Can Teach Us About Climate Change.</a></p> <p> </p> <p>"Half-Full Mic" concept and logo art by Artemis Sere of Seretic Studios.</p> <p>Music by Roman Senyk from Pixabay </p> </div>
January 10, 2025
Advocacy in Action and the Future of Healthcare: A Conversation with Liz Schumacher
<div> </div> <div>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.</div> <div> </div> <div class="stack gap-1"><span class= "text-grey-800 label-1-regular Text-module--dTnC1C">00:00 Welcome to A Pessimist's Guide to Optimism</span></div> <div class="stack gap-1"><span class= "text-grey-800 label-1-regular Text-module--dTnC1C">00:53 Introducing Liz Schumacher: A Healthcare Visionary</span></div> <div class="stack gap-1"><span class= "text-grey-800 label-1-regular Text-module--dTnC1C">01:53 A Personal Connection: Jim and Liz's Shared History</span></div> <div class="stack gap-1"><span class= "text-grey-800 label-1-regular Text-module--dTnC1C">02:53 Liz's Journey in Healthcare and Advocacy</span></div> <div class="stack gap-1"><span class= "text-grey-800 label-1-regular Text-module--dTnC1C">04:44 Facing Health Challenges: Liz's Resilience and Strength</span></div> <div class="stack gap-1"><span class= "text-grey-800 label-1-regular Text-module--dTnC1C">16:28 Balancing Professional and Personal Life</span></div> <div class="stack gap-1"><span class= "text-grey-800 label-1-regular Text-module--dTnC1C">24:48 The State of the Healthcare Industry</span></div> <div class="stack gap-1"><span class= "text-grey-800 label-1-regular Text-module--dTnC1C">26:04 Introduction to SENTAC Society</span></div> <div class="stack gap-1"><span class= "text-grey-800 label-1-regular Text-module--dTnC1C">26:28 Top Healthcare Issues of 2024</span></div> <div class="stack gap-1"><span class= "text-grey-800 label-1-regular Text-module--dTnC1C">28:32 The Role of AI in Healthcare</span></div> <div class="stack gap-1"><span class= "text-grey-800 label-1-regular Text-module--dTnC1C">29:50 Access to Medications and Telemedicine</span></div> <div class="stack gap-1"><span class= "text-grey-800 label-1-regular Text-module--dTnC1C">30:55 Patient Voice and Sustainable Medicine</span></div> <div class="stack gap-1"><span class= "text-grey-800 label-1-regular Text-module--dTnC1C">33:33 Complexities of the Healthcare System</span></div> <div class="stack gap-1"><span class= "text-grey-800 label-1-regular Text-module--dTnC1C">42:11 Advocating for Yourself in Healthcare</span></div> <div class="stack gap-1"><span class= "text-grey-800 label-1-regular Text-module--dTnC1C">43:24 Reflections on Healthcare and Society</span></div> <div class="stack gap-1"><span class= "text-grey-800 label-1-regular Text-module--dTnC1C">51:38 Closing Thoughts and Future Episodes</span></div> <div class="stack gap-1"> </div> <div class="stack gap-1">Resources: </div> <div class="stack gap-1"> </div> <div class="stack gap-1">Check out Liz's company, <a href= "https://affinity-strategies.com/">Affinity Strategies, here</a>. </div> <div class="stack gap-1"> </div> <div class="stack gap-1"> </div>
December 9, 2024
The Intersection of Religion, Politics, and Society: A Conversation with Dr. Amanda Henderson
Rev. Dr. Amanda Henderson discusses how personal beliefs shape public policies and vice versa, emphasizing the importance of understanding and negotiating diverse viewpoints to coexist peacefully.
7 total episodes available
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Frequently asked questions
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- What is A Pessimist's Guide to Optimism?
- How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates bi-weekly.
- Where can I listen to this podcast?
This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
No, this podcast does not typically feature guests.
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