There’s something profound in life’s bitter moments. The transformative beauty of a sad song, the anguished past of a story’s hero, the unexpected turnout of a crowded funeral. Turns out we often need darkness in order to appreciate the light.
In our modern world, we focus so much on the pursuit of happiness that we often forego an appreciation of bitterne ... Show More
Oct 20
Revisited: The Power of Doing One Thing Exceptionally Well with Gymshark Founder and CEO Ben Francis
Hello from Team Simon! Brand-new episodes of A Bit of Optimism are back next Tuesday, October 27. Before then, we're revisiting one last favorite: the company Simon names whenever someone asks which business actually lives the ideas he writes about. It's Gymshark, and its founder ... Show More
1 h
Oct 13
Revisited: Why Relationships Are the Secret to a Long, Happy Life with Psychotherapist Esther Perel
Hello from Team Simon! We’re taking a few weeks off and will be back with brand-new episodes of A Bit of Optimism on Tuesday, October 27. Until then, we’re revisiting some of our favorite conversations, including this one with a longtime friend of Simon’s: Esther Perel. For most ... Show More
1h 2m
Aug 2022
The power in embracing your sadness
In the U.S., there's a relentless focus on positivity. But as we all know, with life comes death — and with happiness, sadness. Susan Cain, author of Bittersweet: How Sorrow and Longing Make Us Whole, opens our eyes to the transformative power of melancholy.See pcm.adswizz.com fo ... Show More
22m 34s
Jun 2022
Why bittersweet emotions underscore life's beauty | Susan Cain
Life is a constant state of both joy and sorrow, dark and light, bitter and sweet. In a meditative conversation, author Susan Cain explores how being attuned to the bittersweetness of life -- and being fully present for both the happy times and the sad times -- helps us navigate ... Show More
16m 35s
Apr 2022
Susan Cain | The Power of Bittersweetness
<p>Ever wonder why a certain sad song or even a few bars of just the right melancholy music will stop you in your tracks and maybe even move you to tears? Turns out, you’re not alone. My guest today, Susan Cain, has spent years researching why certain experiences - ones that conn ... Show More
53m 23s
Oct 2022
Bittersweet: An Audio E-Course by Susan Cain
The Next Big Idea presents an audio masterclass from bestselling author Susan Cain. Drawing on her latest book, "Bittersweet: How Sorrow and Longing Make Us Whole," Susan shares practical insights that you can use to bolster your creativity, deepen your connections, and find joy. ... Show More
48m 12s