In this joyful episode of That Optimism Man, Victor Perton speaks with Lenny Ravich in Israel, author of Everlasting Optimism: 9 Principles for Success, Happiness and Powerful Relationships. Lenny is an optimism teacher, humourist, keynote speaker, educator and director of the Gestalt Institute of Tel Aviv. His work brings together Gestalt awareness, humour, creativity and laughter. At 90, Lenny is a living example of his message: greet people warmly, laugh before you feel like laughing, choose love over fear, and learn to dance with life rather than drag it. Victor and Lenny explore what it means to be optimistic in serious times, how laughter changes how we feel and relate, why positive self-talk matters, and how small acts of warmth can lift both giver and receiver. For more reflections, research, practical habits and podcast updates, visit centreforoptimism.com.

Can optimism help protect the ageing brain? In this episode, Victor Perton shares findings from a Harvard-led study on optimism and dementia risk and reflects on why the habits of an optimist matter for healthy ageing, brain health, and the people who care for and love those living with dementia. Read more at https://www.centreforoptimism.com/blog/dementiaharvard

What is one question that can change almost every conversation? In this episode, Victor Perton shares a simple practice that helps lift energy and foster optimism. Replace “How are you?” with “What’s been the best thing in your day so far?” and notice what happens. The conversation often becomes warmer, more real, and more hopeful. With stories from everyday life, leadership, and meetings, Victor shows how a better question can help people feel seen, strengthen connection, and create a more optimistic tone. Read more in Optimism: The How and Why, available in hardcopy, paperback, and Kindle on Amazon. You can also find Victor through The Centre for Optimism website, his Substack, and social media.

In this episode of That Optimism Man, Victor Perton is joined by Robert Masters AM, one of the world’s leading experts on leadership, trust, and crisis communication, and co-author of The Optimism Principle. Set against a global backdrop of declining trust and optimism, highlighted by the Edelman Trust Barometer, this conversation explores what leadership demands in uncertain times. Victor and Robert examine how trust is built and rebuilt, and why optimism is not naïve hope, but a realistic, disciplined, and strategic leadership capability. As Robert explains: “Trust is built on three things: consistency, respect, and vulnerability.” Drawing on decades of experience advising prime ministers, CEOs, and organisations through crises, Robert shares practical insights into truthful communication, visible leadership, and restoring confidence under pressure. He makes clear that optimism is not optional in hard moments: “In times of crisis, optimism becomes an essential part of the planning process.” Throughout the conversation, optimism is framed as realism and responsibility, not denial: “Optimism is a responsible way of facing reality and working toward a positive outcome.” The discussion also highlights the human side of leadership, from families to workplaces, and why credibility today requires leaders to show up fully: “Vulnerability is one of the key qualities people look for in leaders today.” At its heart, the episode reflects a shared belief that leadership begins from within: “Optimism is an inner foundation that shapes how we live, lead, and enjoy life.” It culminates in the guiding idea behind the entire discussion, The Optimism Principle: The answer to life’s most pressing questions is optimism. This episode is for leaders, public servants, board members, and anyone who believes leadership begins with belief in people.

In this powerful episode of That Optimism Man, Victor Perton sits down with Agostino Giramondo, Managing Director of News Corp Victoria and Tasmania, cycling advocate, and leader whose optimism is deeply grounded in heritage, humility, and a clear-eyed belief in people. Agostino shares the influence of his Sicilian ancestry, where faith, hard work, and community shaped a worldview anchored in resilience and quiet strength. He speaks about his family's legacy, built on the values of service and grit, and how those early lessons continue to guide his leadership in one of the most fast-paced and disruptive industries in the world. We dive into his “Working Together” philosophy, his passion for cycling as a daily reset, and the joy he finds in small wins, community pride, and family life. Throughout the conversation, Agostino reminds us that optimism is not just a mindset. It is a responsibility. A choice to see the good in people and to act with integrity and collaboration. "I am optimistic because I see the good in people rather than the bad. You just see the human spirit rise." – Agostino This is a rich exploration of what it means to lead through change, to honour your roots, and to build a future where optimism is more than hope. It is action. It is legacy. It is leadership.

In this uplifting episode of That Optimism Man Podcast, Victor Perton speaks with Anisha Sainandini Panda, an inspiring student researcher from India whose work connects biotechnology, nanophotonics, and artificial intelligence. Anisha shares how optimism shapes both her science and her spirit, helping her remain calm, resilient, and purposeful as she works to create innovations that serve both people and the planet. Her story reminds us that patience, curiosity, and compassion can turn even the hardest moments in life into opportunities for growth. As Anisha beautifully expresses: “Optimism means finding light even in moments of darkness. It is the strength to stay calm, patient, and resilient, and to believe that every setback carries a lesson and every hardship hides a spark of good.” And she adds: “When we face hardship, we must hold patience, stay resilient, and search for the good even within the bad. That is what keeps me standing optimistic in life.” Anisha's bright conversation invites us to see optimism as both a mindset and a practice, a steady light guiding discovery, resilience, and hope for the future. 👉 Visit www.centreforoptimism.com to explore stories, tools, and daily practices that help you live and lead with optimism. How might your perspective change if, like Anisha, you chose to look for the spark of good hidden within your challenges?

In this uplifting episode of That Optimism Man Podcast, Victor Perton speaks with Megan Main, Chief Executive of New Zealand’s Accident Compensation Corporation, and a leader whose calm and courageous optimism has guided people through some of the most complex challenges of our time. Megan reflects on her experience co-leading New Zealand’s Managed Isolation and Quarantine system during the height of the global pandemic and now guiding one of New Zealand’s most important public institutions. She reveals that optimism is not a matter of wishful thinking, but a way of facing reality with courage, care, and clarity. “Optimism is a mindset. It is what you make of the situation you are in, dealing with the reality you find, not how you wish things were.” Megan speaks about finding moments of joy even in the toughest days, and about the importance of levity and gratitude in leadership. “Even in the most difficult times, we found joy, sometimes by wearing funny hats or celebrating the small wins. That sense of joy kept us human.” This conversation is a beautiful reminder that optimism is not the denial of difficulty. It is the belief that through courage, compassion, and perspective, better is always possible. Visit The Centre for Optimism at centreforoptimism.com to join the movement and share what makes you optimistic. Because optimism is not only a mindset, it is a way forward. What is one daily practice that helps you face challenges with the same calm optimism and joyful realism that Megan brings to her leadership?

In this episode of That Optimism Man, I sit down with David Berez, a remarkable figure who merges law enforcement and positive psychology. With over 20 years as a police officer and a master's degree in applied positive psychology, David is pioneering resilience and well-being strategies for those on the front lines. We dive into the concept of courageous optimism—the mindset that empowers individuals to run toward danger and challenges, driven by a belief in their ability to effect change. David shares insights on how intentional optimism can transform police culture, enhance mental health, and bolster community connections. Join us as we explore the profound impact of optimism in policing and learn how to support those who serve our communities.

In this episode of That Optimism Man, I welcome back the vibrant Alix Bradfield, a true beacon of optimism and vitality. Alix, who previously launched her inspiring book, Energy for Life, with us, shares her journey of embodying joy and resilience, particularly for those navigating life past 50. We explore how optimism is not merely a fleeting emotion, but a daily choice that can transform our well-being, connections, and leadership. Alix's insights on gratitude, the beauty of nature, and spontaneous conversations with strangers reveal how small, intentional actions can create waves of positivity. Join us for a heartening conversation that will inspire you to embrace optimism and energize your life. Discover more about Alix's work at alixbradfield.com and learn how you can cultivate your own infectious optimism.

In this energising episode of That Optimism Man Podcast, Victor Perton speaks with Professor Angus Fletcher, an expert in storytelling, narrative neuroscience, and the psychology of performance, and author of Primal Intelligence: You Are Smarter Than You Know. Together, they explore how optimism and story shape the way we lead, adapt, and grow. Drawing on his work with the military, NASA, and creative institutions, Angus shares how reconnecting with your own moments of success can inspire action, belief, and confidence in what is possible. Angus shares powerful insights, including: “Optimism is not This will succeed. Optimism is much, much stronger. Optimism is This can succeed.” “Optimism is the first step toward antifragility.” “The most important story you will ever tell is the story you tell yourself about yourself.” This episode is a call to ensure you are connected to your own story, to rediscover your strengths, and to lead with infectious optimism. You can explore Angus Fletcher’s book Primal Intelligence. Connect with your host, Victor Perton, on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and X. Learn more about the global community of optimists at The Centre for Optimism. Tune in, be inspired, and keep choosing optimism.