Shows
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiNikkolas Smith Reimagines the World Through ‘Artivism’🎨 Creators, Visionaries, and Changemakers—This One’s for the Revolutionaries with a Paintbrush.This week on The Optimist Project, Yara Shahidi welcomes celebrated artivist, author, and concept artist Nikkolas Smith for a powerful exploration of optimism through the lens of creativity, justice, and bold imagination.From designing theme parks as a Disney Imagineer to creating iconic movie posters and illustrating best-selling children's books, Nikkolas has made a career of dreaming aloud. In this conversation, he shares how his signature Sunday Sketch series evolved into a public ritual of art-as-healing—and how optimism fuels his ability to honor...2025-07-0947 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiEstelle on Trusting Yourself & Being a Light🎶 Creators, Dreamers, and Artists—This One’s for the Light Shining in You.This week on The Optimist Project, Yara Shahidi sits down with Grammy Award-winning musician Estelle for an intimate conversation on purpose, presence, and the art of living with intention.In a world that often prizes popularity over authenticity, Estelle invites us to consider a more grounded truth: that being a light matters more than being liked. Estelle unpacks what it means to move through life with optimism—not as blind hope, but as a conscious choice to respond with grace, clarity, and ease.2025-07-0255 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiCole Arthur Riley's Black Liturgies and the Beauty of Unanswered Questions✨ Writers, Seekers, and Tender Truth-Tellers—This One’s for You.This week on The Optimist Project, we’re joined by writer, poet, and spiritual curator Cole Arthur Riley, author of This Here Flesh and creator of the transcendent digital space Black Liturgies.Cole’s wisdom invites us to consider optimism not as loud hope but as sacred stillness—a quiet, rooted stance that makes room for contradiction, wonder, and doubt. In this profound conversation, she speaks with reverence and clarity about the spiritual life as one of complexity: where skepticism meets faith, and silence becomes presence.2025-06-2547 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiAlok Vaid-Menon on Art, Identity & the Radical Power of Joy🌈 Artists, Seekers, and Boundary-Breakers—This One’s For You.This week on The Optimist Project, I’m joined by the brilliant and genre-defying artist, writer, and performer Alok Vaid-Menon, whose work invites us to embrace our full selves with tenderness, complexity, and courage. In this luminous conversation, Alok redefines what it means to be optimistic—not as blind positivity, but as a sacred practice of embracing the unknown and choosing beauty, again and again.We explore their early artistic influences (yes, including Avril Lavigne!), the transformative power of imagination, and how humor and honesty becom...2025-06-1852 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiAshley Cunningham on Courage, Cinnamon Rolls, and the Discipline Behind Optimism✨ Food Lovers, Dreamers, and Anyone on a Journey Toward Self-Mastery—This One’s for You.This week on The Optimist Project, we’re joined by classically trained chef, self-taught baker, and founder of Bad Ash Bakes, Ashley Cunningham.Ashley’s story is one of fearless evolution—from teenage culinary prodigy to full-time entrepreneur with a deep spiritual practice and a next-level cookie game. In this intimate and inspiring conversation, she opens up about learning discipline through early responsibility, navigating tough kitchens with compassion, and facing fear head-on in pursuit of her dream.We talk about t...2025-06-1146 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiMir Harris on Using Storytelling and Service in 'Realistic' Optimism🌟 Deep Thinkers, Creative Leaders, and Purpose-Driven Souls—This Episode Is for You.This week on The Optimist Project, I had the honor of sitting down with multihyphenate creative strategist and cultural force, Mir Harris.As the founder and CEO of MirSays, Mir has built a career rooted in storytelling, social impact, and the kind of optimism that doesn’t ignore reality—but reshapes it.In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, we unpack realistic optimism—what it looks like to hold faith and clarity through dark moments, how rituals and community ground us, and why lea...2025-06-0440 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiTara Roberts Honors History by 'Diving' into Purpose🌊 Truth Seekers, Legacy Builders, and Lovers of Deep Stories—This One’s for You.This week on The Optimist Project, I had the absolute joy of sitting down with award-winning storyteller, explorer, and changemaker Tara Roberts.Tara is the voice behind the National Geographic podcast Into the Depths and the first Black woman to grace the cover of Nat Geo as an Explorer. Her work dives—literally—into the stories of lost slave shipwrecks, amplifying ancestral truths that were almost erased by time.In this soulful, searching, and ultimately empowering conversation, we explore what it mea...2025-05-2833 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiAnousheh Ansari on Exploring Space, Cultivating Curiosity, and Igniting Imagination🚀 Visionaries, Space Dreamers, and Changemakers—This Episode Is for You.This week on The Optimist Project, I had the privilege of sitting down with Anousheh Ansari—engineer, explorer, entrepreneur, and the first female private space traveler.From gazing at the stars as a curious child in Iran to launching into orbit and later into impact-driven innovation through XPRIZE, Anousheh’s story is one of perseverance, purpose, and profound optimism.In our conversation, we dive into what it means to aim higher than seems reasonable, how to reframe setbacks as rocket fuel, and why inclusive...2025-05-2145 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiOn Break : More Optimism to Come!💆♀️💆♂️Taking a break but we’ll be back!What an amazing journey it’s been, diving into the power of optimism and creating space for the big ideas that keep us inspired!With that same spirit, we’re taking a little time to recharge. That’s right—The Optimist Project is hitting pause for a short hiatus… but don’t worry, we’ll be back before you know it, refreshed and ready to bring you even more uplifting conversations!In the meantime, catch up on past episodes, revisit your favorites, and spread optimism by sharing them with friends.2025-03-1916 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiKidSuper on Taking Optimistic Risks🎨 Creative Souls and Dreamers, This One’s for You!This week on The Optimist Project, I sat down with the wildly inventive fashion designer Colm Dillane — aka KidSuper. Known for his unforgettable Paris Fashion Week shows and his vibrant live-work studio space, Colm is a fearless, creative force.We explore the magic of blending optimism with fearlessness, the power of pursuing your passions unapologetically, and what it really means to embrace life with an open heart and curious mind. Plus, Colm drops gems for aspiring creators — hint: JUST START!We’d love to hear...2025-03-1257 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiDr. Becky Yang Hsu Breaks Down How Culture Defines Happiness✨What is happiness, really? And are we looking for it in all the wrong places?This week on The Optimist Project, Yara Shahidi sits down with sociologist Dr. Becky Yang Hsu to explore how different cultures define happiness—and why the solo pursuit of it might be too limiting.Dr. Hsu unpacks the surprising ways deep connections, community, and relationships shape fulfillment. (spoiler: it’s not just about personal wins). Maybe happiness isn’t something we chase—but everything we create together.💡 Get ready to rethink what it means to live a good life.2025-03-0543 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiBisa Butler's Threads of Optimism using Art, Teaching, and Legacy🎙 The Optimist Project Podcast: Bisa Butler – Giving Our Past a New Life Through ArtToday, I’m in conversation with the extraordinary Bisa Butler—artist, educator, visual historian, and creative futurist. Through her breathtaking quilted portraits, Bisa weaves history, identity, and resilience into fabric, redefining how we see the past and imagine the future.Join us as we explore the inspiration and drive behind her powerful body of work, which honors the rich and vibrant histories of Black life and culture. From her roots in academia to the world’s most prestigious galleries and museums, Bisa shares...2025-02-2655 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiDr. Vee Kativhu: Igniting Optimism by Chasing her Dreams & Changing LivesReady for a dose of inspiration? This week on The Optimist Project, Yara Shahidi sits in conversation with Gen Z global phenom, educator, author, and activist, Dr. Vee Kativhu, about chasing dreams, facing challenges, and lifting others as you rise.Dr. Vee gets real about how self-care can be the perfect shield against criticism, the importance and the power of community in grounding optimism, and how important her work in higher education is in breaking barriers for girls and young women in Zimbabwe and around the world.Resilience, empowerment, and a hopeful heart CAN turn...2025-02-191h 01
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiDemetrius Harmon: Embracing your Unique Journey: The Strength to Lean into Vulnerability, Discover more about yourself & Honor your PurposeThis week’s episode of The Optimist Project is for my Gen Z peers and all those who love and support us. 💫 So many of us are battling self-doubt and navigating the complexities of mental health—a double whammy that can feel overwhelming. But here's the thing: we're not alone. In this empowering conversation, we’re joined by the incredible Demetrius Harmon—writer, actor, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate. Demetrius, the founder of the global clothing brand @youmatter, opens up about his personal journey of entrepreneurship, while also grappling with his own mental he...2025-02-1248 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiRapsody reminds us to 'stay in the light'Grammy award-winning rapper Rapsody shares how optimism allows her to "stay in the light," the power of learning when to say 'no' and how to create purpose driven art. Also, she shares how her community is pivotal in shaping her pride in black culture, creative flow and living in alignment with her calling.We’d love to hear how you're staying optimistic during this time. Leave a voice message at (323) 761-0837 or email us at askoptimistproject@gmail.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to share your own seeds of optimism and wisdom! @optimistproj...2025-02-0556 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiJaylen Brown on Finding Optimism in Meditation and DisciplineJaylen Brown – 2024 NBA Finals MVP, philanthropist and entrepreneur – shares how he maintains his spiritual hygiene through mediation, sound frequencies and stoicism. Plus, he reveals the defining moment that made him choose UC Berkeley before being drafted into the Boston Celtics. We’d love to hear how you're staying optimistic during this time. Leave a voice message at (323) 761-0837 or email us at askoptimistproject@gmail.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to share your own seeds of optimism and wisdom! @optimistprojectpod // The Optimist Project Podcast @yarashahidi // Yara Shah...2025-01-2953 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiPrentice Penny on the Optimism in Taking An "L"Prentice Penny joins the Optimist Project sharing the important lessons he’s learned from the many “L’s” he’s experienced throughout his life and his writing, directing and producing career. Plus, I invite you to plan a social activity to help build community around you. Bolstering human connection is key to our well-being. Also, our hearts go out to those affected by the devastating wildfires impacting Los Angeles and the surrounding areas. Please know that our thoughts are with you, your loved ones, and your communities. Here are some vital resources:211 LA: 211la.org2025-01-2246 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiChristine Platt on Healing, Giving, and Finding Balance with Afro-minimalismChristine Platt. author of The Afro-minimalist's Guide to Living With Less, explains how we can all rethink our living spaces, which helps to declutter our minds. She lets us in on the inspiring twists and turns with her career, and how a spur-of-the-moment decision to write a book changed her life.Also, our hearts go out to those affected by the devastating wildfires impacting Los Angeles and the surrounding areas. Please know that our thoughts are with you, your loved ones, and your communities.Here are some vital resources:211 LA: 211la.org2025-01-1552 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiPreparing for Life's Lemons with Courtney B. VanceI'm in conversation this week with actor Courtney B. Vance, who shares how life's ups and downs have conditioned him to lean into optimism. He opens up about how grief and a mother's prodding nudged him into therapy, and why he advocates for others to do the work of dealing with themselves. We’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, or ideas. Leave a voice message at (323) 761-0837 or email us at askoptimistproject@gmail.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to share your own seeds of optimism and wisdom! ...2025-01-0854 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiDr. Allycin Powell - Hicks on Preserving our PeaceDr. Allycin Powell-Hicks, who comes from a long line of physicians, still had to find her own way in the health arena. These days, she mixes her medical and media backgrounds into her own business. She shares the way she counsels people about how to practice optimism as part of mental health. And she encourages us to try a new way to meditate -- with love and kindness at its center.We’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, or ideas. Leave a voice message at (323) 761-0837 or email us at askoptimistproject@gmail.com. And don't forget to...2025-01-0149 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiEgo Nwodim on finding Purpose, Laughter, and FaithEgo Nwodim, Saturday Night Live cast member, comedian, and actress, joins me for an inspiring conversation on the power of optimism. Ego opens up about how embracing a positive mindset has transformed her well-being and why it’s a gift to both mind and body. We talk about the pressures of work, how Ego stays grounded in the chaos, and her journey toward setting boundaries while nurturing her desire to help others. Tune in for a candid and uplifting discussion on staying true to yourself in a demanding world—and why optimism is the ultimate tool for self-care. We’d love to hear your t...2024-12-2548 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiDr. Laurie Santos Explains the Psychology of OptimismDr. Laurie Santos—THE Yale psychology professor who’s revolutionized how we think about happiness helps us tap into the literal science of well-being.As the creator of Yale’s most popular course EVER, The Science of Well-Being, and host of the hit podcast The Happiness Lab, Dr. Santos breaks down the psychology of optimism and introduces us to the “Beautiful Mess Effect.” We also explore why happiness can feel so tricky to achieve—and she shares practical tools to help us rewire our approach to well-being.Want to share your experience or ask a question? Ca...2024-12-1847 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiAri Shapiro on Finding Seeds of Optimism in StorytellingAri Shapiro, host of NPR's All Things Considered, has actively rooted his life’s work and his experiences in the belief that optimism isn’t about avoiding struggle, but about our collective ability to navigate struggle with hope, creativity, and curiosity. Whether you listen to Ari’s nightly newscast, are new to his work, or simply believe in the transformative power of thoughtful journalism, this conversation will remind you that we can strive for a deeper appreciation for the human stories that connect us all. We’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, or ideas. Lea...2024-12-1141 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiKeke Palmer on Mastering Self-Esteem and EmpowermentKeke Palmer has made her way into our hearts, beginning as a young actor with a resume as long as my arm - and continues to blossom into an entrepreneurially inspired actor, author, mother, host and so much more. Join the Optimist Project as Keke shares insights from her journey - how family and community shape her, and how in moments of doubt, her mindset keeps her stepping into her power.If you’ve ever wondered what fuels Keke’s magic—or better yet, her optimism—you’re in the right place. She shares the power of taking con...2024-12-0440 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiFaith, Fatherhood and Finding Optimism with Hasan MinhajThis week, comedian and social commentator Hasan Minhaj joins us for a moving conversation about how his faith has been foundational in shaping his sense of optimism. We explore how Hasan's ever-deepening belief system influences his approach to life as a father, brother, caregiver, and partner to his brilliant wife—each role guiding his broader personal journey. Hasan shares how he moves with purpose, actively seeks growth moments, and explains why he believes it's important to "keep receipts". As we continue adding new ideas—or seeds—to our optimism garden, Hasan reminds us that the answers we seek may alread...2024-11-2749 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiJanelle Monáe on Cultivating Optimism Through Art and IdentityJanelle Monáe shares her personal take on optimism, the pure potentiality of believing in yourself and her must-have items that support her emotional health and boundless creativity while on tour and at home. The Optimist Project always LOVES hearing from our OP community! Share your Journey with us- You can leave a message at (323) 761-0837 or - email askoptimistproject@gmail.com - Your thoughts may be featured in a future episode!
2024-11-2050 min
The Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiThe Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi | Coming November 20th!On this podcast, we’ll discover: what gives you hope? Join Yara Shahidi as she sits down with some of the best thought leaders of our time - artists, comedians, scientists, and more - to find out how optimism plays a role in their lives. Together, we’ll unpack how to access resilience and joy in our everyday lives. Join us every Wednesday starting November 20th for your weekly optimism drop!
2024-11-0101 minThe Optimist Project with Yara ShahidiThis Show Will Keep You LiftedWelcome to the Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi, a show that asks: what gives you hope? You’ll hear from some of the best thought leaders of our era — artists, comedians, scientists, musicians and more. Together, we’ll unpack how to access resilience and joy in our everyday lives. Meet us back here November 20th for your weekly optimism drop!
2024-10-0500 min