2025/9/9 Edited to

... Read moreYou know, when I first started The Foolish Optimist Podcast, it was truly on a severance package of hope and a dream. I poured my heart into creating a space where we could talk about important issues, explore ideas with next-generation leaders, and find optimism even in challenging times. It's not just a podcast; it's a community. I've heard from so many of you who connect with the honest conversations we have, who appreciate hearing from diverse voices, and who feel a little less alone in navigating the world. Whether you're looking for insightful discussions, candid interviews, or just a dose of that 'foolish optimist' spirit, I truly believe you'll find a home here. We tackle everything from personal growth to the big picture, always aiming to inspire action and thoughtful engagement. I remember interviewing a guest once, and their perspective on community building really resonated with how I see this podcast – a place for people to gather, share, and grow. It's about bringing people together to explore what it means to be hopeful, even when things feel tough, and finding ways to make a positive impact in our own lives and beyond. I know some of you might be searching for specific communities or discussions, and I want to assure you that The Foolish Optimist Podcast is committed to fostering an inclusive and thought-provoking environment. Every listen on Spotify, Apple, or YouTube, every share with a friend, helps us reach more people who are looking for exactly that kind of connection. It's about building bridges and encouraging dialogue, something I'm incredibly passionate about. Running this show, finding guests through March, and trying to keep it alive until the 2026 elections takes immense effort, and yes, sometimes I feel a little burnt out. But knowing that we're creating a space for valuable conversations keeps me going. If you're someone who appreciates independent voices and wants to see more content that inspires hope and action, your support is invaluable. Even if it's just leaving a review or telling a candidate who's been on the show to share their episode – those small acts make a massive difference. And hey, if you're a graphic designer out there who believes in this mission and wants to help with some real covers for Instagram (because Canva and I have a contentious relationship!), please reach out! Let's keep this optimistic movement growing together.

Related posts

A man in a black cap kisses a smiling woman on the cheek under warm sunlight, with the text "normalize asking your partner..." overlaid, encouraging open communication in relationships.
A blurry image of a couple embracing in the ocean at sunset, with the question "what's something that we don't talk about enough?" overlaid, prompting deeper conversations.
A close-up of two people holding hands while walking on asphalt, wearing casual attire, accompanied by the question "what's something new we should start doing together?"
WE NEED TO START ASKING THESE QUESTIONS:
why do we shy away from questions that could be so lifesaving to our relationships? while the initial answers could lead to some hard discussions, at the end of the day sweeping things under the rug and harboring resentments doesn't so anyone any favors! so let's start asking the hard qu
taylordharrish

taylordharrish

5445 likes

Asking Celebrities to Sign Old Photos I Found
I found old photos on the Internet of celebrity voice actors, and got their real reaction while asking them to sign the old photos at @Collect_A_Con . Favorite video I’ve made in years. #anime #oldphotos #celebrities
Timothy Flick

Timothy Flick

9574 likes

Questions All Women Should Be Asking Their Doctors
Walking into a doctor’s office can be a daunting experience. Whether it’s for a routine checkup or a specific concern, many people find themselves unsure of what to ask or how to respond to a diagnosis. As a biology pre-med major studying communications, I recognize the crucial role effective c
Chalie_Baker

Chalie_Baker

1033 likes

Stop asking, “do I need it?”
#clean #cleaning #motivation #clutter #tips
Organized Chaos | Audrey

Organized Chaos | Audrey

3641 likes

signs depression is asking for your attention
we’ve all been there - everything is going great, you’re happy, you’re crushing your goals. and then suddenly, you’re not ⤵️ depression creeps up on us sometimes, wrapping us up before we even realize it’s there. learning to recognizing it quickly so that you can take action is one of the best t
carley ◡̈

carley ◡̈

2874 likes

how to OFFER SUPPORT without asking ARE YOU OKAY?❤️‍🩹
If you’ve ever struggled with your mental health or if you’ve ever been through a really low place in your life… then you might’ve encountered an experience with a friend or family member has asked you “are you okay?” ❤️‍🩹 and while I’m sure this question is coming from a genuine place of concer
Sarah Bispy

Sarah Bispy

5943 likes

Lorenzo keeps asking for this 😂
#crunchwrap #tacobell #cookingvideo #DELICIOUS #fyp
Lorenzo&Anabelle

Lorenzo&Anabelle

3985 likes

Skincare I HATE to LOVE
For legal reasons, this is a joke 😜
Dermguru

Dermguru

129 likes

The image displays the title slide for "HOW TO DO WELL IN CLASS" with the subtitle "Study with passion!" and "# 5 tips #". It features a desk covered with open textbooks, a laptop, and other study materials, set in a soft, ambient light.
This image presents the first tip, "1. Set Goals and Plan," detailing "Preparation & Review" and "Timely Review" with bullet points. The text is overlaid on a blurred background of a study desk with books and a laptop.
The image shows the second tip, "2. Active Participation and Focus," outlining advice on "Actively Participate in Class" and "Maintain Focus." The text is presented over a blurred background of a study area with books and a laptop.
How to Do Well in Class | Student Success Guide🎓🌟
#studentstips #studentlife #classtips #Lemon8 #lemon8edu
Coco✨

Coco✨

200 likes

A book titled "Joyful" rests on a patterned duvet next to a coffee mug, with stuffed animals and a lamp in the background. The image features text overlay "HOW TO BE DISGUSTINGLY WELL-READ."
Hands hold an open book with text visible, accompanied by an overlay stating, "BEING WELL-READ ISN'T ABOUT FLEXING A BOOKSHELF It's about curiosity. It's about following joy and asking harder questions."
A person reads a book on a couch, with a small dog perched on the back of the couch near a sunlit window. An overlay reads, "READ WHATEVER YOU WANT Yes, even the weird stuff Passion > prestige every single time."
How you can become disgustingly well-read
“Disgustingly well-read” sounds like an insult, but it’s just about being curious. It’s about reading deeply. About chasing the books that light you up. About asking why. Don’t stop at the book itself. Read essays, reviews, and think pieces, I want to see the arguments, the love letters, the tak
Meredith Jao

Meredith Jao

77 likes

Crab Salad recipe since you guys been asking 🫶🏾🦀🦞
Hey guys, I don’t have any measurements for this recipe YET but if this is your first time making a crab salad I would definitely recommend adding all of the ingredients little by little until it starts looking like the picture above. 😄 and especially the mayo and seasoning you guys don’t wanna ove
Lourisa

Lourisa

2726 likes

A billboard featuring One Direction members, with Liam Payne highlighted, and two people standing in front. Overlay text expresses the author's struggle with Liam Payne's passing, accompanied by a broken heart emoji.
A young woman stands before a "One Direction: This Is Us" movie poster. Overlay text provides a disclaimer about not supporting Liam's recent behavior, the ability to mourn while holding him accountable, and protecting Maya Henry from hate.
A young woman poses next to a One Direction movie poster featuring Zayn and Louis. Overlay text states the author has been a Directioner since 2012, expressing feelings of loss, regret for past criticism, and wishing Liam had received help.
I’m Struggling w/ Liam Payne’s Passing
DISCLAIMER: I haven’t supported Liam in the past couple of years due to his behavior in regard to things he has said about the boys, as well as the abuse allegations from his previous relationship. With that being said, you can still mourn his death while also holding him accountable. If you’re a
em ♡

em ♡

17 likes

A person with dark hair holds a camera to their face, taking a mirror selfie. The image is overlaid with the title 'FILMS I MADE as a film student IN COLLEGE' in gold and orange text.
A collage featuring scenes from 'Vignettes of Madison,' a documentary filmed in February 2022. It includes a YouTube thumbnail, a person in bed, and text describing the film as a 'cinema verité' documentary about life with a toxic boyfriend.
A collage showcasing 'The Modern American Transformation Film,' a sci-fi/dystopian short from May 2021. It features a YouTube thumbnail, a woman speaking, and text explaining it's about not conforming to society's expectations.
films i made as a film student 🎬
these are just some of my favorite projects i made in the three years that i was a media studies student at uwsp :) i made several other projects that didn’t make the cut, but i just wanted to share some of my favorites here and also let y’all know that if you want to watch them, most of them are a
lili <3

lili <3

608 likes

Asking ripped dude how he got so fit.
#workout #calisthenics #fyp #miami #pullups
BodyByMark

BodyByMark

15 likes

An overhead view of medical textbooks, anatomical models, and a pencil on a desk. Overlaid text reads "AMCAS HOW to ask for a LOR Medical School Admission," indicating a guide for requesting letters of recommendation.
A text excerpt from an email template, asking a professor to write a strong letter of recommendation for medical school, emphasizing the professor's insight into the applicant's character.
A continuation of the email template, detailing the attachments provided to the recommender, including a resume, personal statement draft, transcript, and AMCAS guidelines for evaluation.
Asking for a LOR for Medical School🩺
Here is an email template that I personally sent :) #premed #AMCAS #AAMC #medicalschool #Dr
Future Dr. 🥼🩺

Future Dr. 🥼🩺

78 likes

A finished pencil sketch of a muscular male torso, showing defined chest, abs, and arms, with some shading around the waist.
An initial pencil sketch showing basic geometric shapes and lines forming the foundational outline of a torso.
A pencil sketch showing the torso outline with more rounded shapes for the chest and shoulders, building upon the initial geometric forms.
Cause everyone was asking how I draw
I’m not that professional so I barely draw any outline. But this is pretty much how I would outline the drawing if i had to (in a very unprofessional way)🥹 #drawn #this is one of my drawings #art #artist #artistsoflemon8 #arts #artistry #artworkoflemon8 #afranaism
Afrana

Afrana

521 likes

An overhead view of a white keyboard and an open daily planner, with the text overlay "DON'T be afraid to ask for HELP at work here's how" in bold white letters.
A woman taking a mirror selfie, holding a pink phone, with text overlay advising not to apologize for asking for help and to try confident ways to ask a boss or coworker.
A woman taking a mirror selfie, with an overlay of a table showing confident ways to ask for help at work, contrasting phrases to avoid with better alternatives.
asking for help at work professionally (scripts➡️)
don't be afraid to ask questions, ask for help, etc at work...especially if you're just starting out in the role!! it's a natural part of learning—so if you don't ask, you won't learn 🗒️ here's how to communicate confidently when you need to ask for help at work 👉
Alex | Career & Confidence

Alex | Career & Confidence

15 likes

Here is Everything I am Asking For my Birthday 🎀
My birthday wishlist beauty and home finds are in! I hate asking for things for my birthday because I feel like I can just pay for them myself. I’m an adult and my parents worked so hard to raise me and I feel so bad asking for more. But everybody around me keeps asking, and so here are a fe
Drew 🎀

Drew 🎀

30 likes

📌 Land a Job By Asking These 3 Questions 🔥
Nailing an interview isn't just about answering questions well—it's also about the questions you ask! Here are three must-ask questions to show your interest and land a job! 1. How do you see this position evolving in the next few years? This question shows that you are thinking about t
Pradeep M

Pradeep M

29 likes

He’s asking my sister to homecoming!
Nickwilkins

Nickwilkins

8928 likes

Asking the Hard Questions 💔
When the foundations of a relationship waver, introspection becomes the compass guiding the tumultuous journey of decision-making. Pause and ask yourself: Does my partner uplift and support my growth, or do they hinder my aspirations and well-being? Assess whether the relationship fosters mutual re
Caitlyn Jaay

Caitlyn Jaay

2285 likes

A student's notebook and pen on a wooden desk in a classroom, with a blackboard filled with equations in the background, illustrating the importance of asking questions in class.
A pink notepad with handwritten notes, coffee, and pastries on a table, with overlaid text emphasizing that asking questions helps students stay focused during lectures.
A laptop keyboard, glasses, and an open planner with a pink pen, accompanied by text explaining how asking thoughtful questions helps teachers recognize student effort.
why you NEED to be asking questions in class
This is something I talk about all the time. I really think I have upgraded my learning and overall experience by asking questions. This has really helped me stay focused during lectures and retain the information better. I have had incredible professors with great answers to my questions t
Sarah :)

Sarah :)

38 likes

Asking cause I don’t know🤷🏻‍♀️
Hey everyone! 🧐 I’ve been seeing a lot of talk on TikTok lately about the Melanie Martinez and Timothy incident from 2017, and I’m really confused as to why it’s being brought up again. This situation was addressed and dealt with years ago, so I’m not sure why it’s resurfacing now. If anyone kno
Echo

Echo

185 likes

Why My Kids Hate Me (And Why That’s a Good Thing)
You know you've hit peak parenting when your kids start showing signs of *hating* your choices, right? Let me tell you about Harper , Elijah , and Ayden . They can’t stand it when I’m “that mom.” You know the one: responsible, full of boundaries, and super creative in ways that make them roll t
Collinsfamgang

Collinsfamgang

35 likes

More BTS for the Ones asking!
@Madelyn Cline
Madison Bailey

Madison Bailey

1705 likes

Stop asking for delayed cord clamping
When you say you want "delayed cord clamping" at the hospital, they usually only wait about 30-60 seconds before clamping that umbilical cord. That's typically not enough time to get all those amazing benefits for your baby. Rather than just asking for delayed clamping, specify th
InnateMama

InnateMama

2732 likes

This Casserole Will Have Everyone Asking for More!
If you're looking for an easy, comforting meal, this Sausage Biscuit & Gravy casserole is perfect. It’s great for make-ahead breakfasts, lazy weekend brunches, or even breakfast for dinner. It’s one of those dishes that everyone will love, and it couldn’t be simpler to whip up! Here'
Ko-Ko Owirodu

Ko-Ko Owirodu

75 likes

Tips for asking for a letter of recommendation
I have asked for a lot of letters of recommendation from college aps, internships, scholarships, grad school etc. and here are the tips and WHY I recommend these things! You should ask far in advance for a couple of reasons, the first is to be respectful of your potential letter writers time. Th
Sarah :)

Sarah :)

152 likes

A laptop displaying "Asking for an extension Tips from a TA" sits on a wooden table in a cafe, with a mug of tea beside it. The image sets the scene for advice on requesting assignment extensions, featuring "lemon8" and the user handle.
A cafe table with coffee and pastries features a pink notebook. An overlay presents tip #1: "Check the syllabus" for extension policies, suggesting to ask about extra credit if extensions are denied.
A majestic building with large columns and a grand staircase is shown under a cloudy sky. An overlay presents tip #2: "If they do seem flexible, explain that you have put a lot of work into the assignment" to produce quality work.
tips for asking for an ✨extension✨
As someone that answers at least an email a week about extensions, here are some of my tips: If the syllabus clearly says no, do not ask. It comes off as if you do not respect the clear rules in most cases. Asking for extra credit is the better way to make up the points in a way that doesn't
Sarah :)

Sarah :)

211 likes

People will keep asking you to make these brownies!!
There’s nothing quite like a brownie that manages to be both deeply decadent and playfully nostalgic. I make these Fudgy Oreo Brownies whenever I need a dessert that hits that perfect "middle-of-the-brownie" texture—dense, gooey, and packed with a satisfying crunch. Fudgy Oreo Brownies
Lifestyle | Motherhood

Lifestyle | Motherhood

180 likes

Land a Job Offer By Asking These Questions
Asking questions at the conclusion of a job interview is paramount for several reasons. Firstly, it showcases your genuine enthusiasm for the role and the company, reinforcing your interest in the opportunity. Secondly, it empowers you to gather critical insights into the position, organizational c
Gurvir Bains

Gurvir Bains

680 likes

I WAS CHOSEN FOR NEXT CREATOR PROGRAM!!!🍋📣
After a long day, like always I check my inboxes to see how my content is doing and what I should improve on. Well after getting off a rough phone call, I decided to check my Lemon8 inbox, cuz why not! I love lemon8's community, lately it's been my main source of engagement! With that being
Ree💞

Ree💞

36 likes

Four hands, two wearing rose gold watches and bracelets, are interlocked in a pinky promise gesture. The image features the title "5 Tips How to Be Spoiled Without Asking Luxury Black Girl Edition."
A woman in a fur coat and white boots smiles while standing on a basketball court. Overlaid text reads: "1. Let him lead where it matters and don't compete with it." and an explanation about men spoiling women.
A woman with long dark hair, wearing a red faux fur coat, poses indoors. Overlaid text states: "2. Receive well without guilt or overexplaining." followed by an explanation about accepting gifts gracefully.
5 Tips How to Be Spoiled Without Asking 🍇
#luxuryblackgirl #luxuryblackgirllifestyle #lemon #softgirtera #princesstreatment
Louis Michelle

Louis Michelle

745 likes

An overhead view shows a planner, a clear cash envelope with a ledger, and stacks of twenty-dollar bills on a textured surface. Text overlays read "QUITTING MY JOB SOON" and "I'm going back to this."
An overhead view displays a planner, a clear cash envelope with a ledger, and stacks of twenty-dollar bills. Annotations point to "9 envelopes," "spending /order logs, checkins," and "$320."
A close-up of an open planner shows a "Savings" envelope and a ledger for the "Emergency" category. The ledger has an entry for 7-29-24, adding $40, with a pen visible above.
I’m quitting my 55k salary job soon..
So I know it sounds crazy, but hear me out… I’m quitting because I hate my job and I’m going back to school full time in the fall… I will still have my Military income and I plan to keep my part time job until school gets tooo demanding.. My part time job pays weekly and that is what I wil
Quinn

Quinn

104 likes

people hate the truth
you hate the truth because I'm exposing Brandy Ray j anybody else when you don't know anything about Hollywood or the music industry because you ain't never been there you ain't never been to that dark Kingdom all you know is your whole life it's past you by and that you getting
Aaliyah my wife loves me

Aaliyah my wife loves me

9 likes

I really hate asking?
I really hate Asking? "I can't believe I'm asking this... * What's the BES I_Carnival Cruise Line ship you've ever beeh Pon!.. and WHY?! CRUISE SHIP? Don't gatekeep... drop it below #CruiseWithSam "@carnival @Carnival @RoseBluntz27 @The Cruise Spotter @kal
Cruise with Sam

Cruise with Sam

5 likes

Not Asking for Help Made Me Suffer
There’s something about being the “strong one” that feels… addicting. You tell yourself you can handle it. That you’re fine. You carry the weight for everyone and convince yourself it’s noble. But here’s the truth: Hyper independence is a trauma response. It’s not your strength—it’s your shiel
Abby

Abby

20 likes

How to attract( WELL ESTABLISHED) MEN
How to Attract Well-Established Men: Tips from Goddess Luxure Hello, my devoted followers. It's Goddess Luxure here, ready to share some invaluable tips on how to attract and connect with well-established men. Remember, it's all about confidence, communication, and knowing exactly what y
Goddess Luxure

Goddess Luxure

15 likes

Asking my sister do she know certain lip products
#lipgloss #makeup #beauty #lipstick #explorepage #cosmetics #lipglossbusiness #lipglosspoppin #lips #smallbusiness #lipglossaddict #lashes #explore #lipglossjunkie #makeupartist #mua #skincare #blackownedbusiness #eyeshadow #lipglossvendor #lipbalm #makeuptutorial #lip
Ashton Trys🩷

Ashton Trys🩷

1734 likes

STEP IT UP! (3 ways God is asking you to) ✝️
God knows what you are capable of and deserves our full and complete effort. Although we aren’t perfect and make mistakes, God is ever forgiving. My challenge to you is to dig deeper and ask yourself the following questions: 1) What am I putting before God currently in my day-to-day life?
Sarah Topps

Sarah Topps

211 likes

Asking My Dog “Who’s Your Best Friend?”
GamjaChip 🥔

GamjaChip 🥔

5739 likes

I absolutely hate asking for help!
if anyone has any questions feel free to ask!
hopespangler

hopespangler

4 likes

I hate asking for help...
But if you can it would help me out greatly. https://gofund.me/8f8c37294
BCBadAss24

BCBadAss24

0 likes

A text message screen shows the question 'What are 5 things you like about me? 😊' in a green bubble, with 'Asking my BF' at the top and a menu below.
A text message screen displays a boyfriend's response: four times 'That azz' followed by 'Your drive to achieve purpose for yourself.' A banner reads 'I was mortified until I read the last one. 🥺'.
A text message screen shows the question 'What are 4 things I like? 😉' in a green bubble, with a menu below for actions like 'Add Sticker' and 'Copy'.
Asking my BF the 5,4,3,2,1 questions 😭
Well this was an eye opener 🥹😭 #textswithmybf #questionstoaskyourboyfriend #relationship #dating #54321challenge #bf #boyfriends #relationships #texts #text
Spicytenshi

Spicytenshi

544 likes

The image displays a store shelf stocked with various pre-packaged snack kits. Prominently featured are peanut butter and jelly sandwich kits with strawberry and grape flavored dips, labeled 'No Thaw' and showing calorie information. Other visible kits include spicy nachos.
My kid has been asking me.. to try 😂😂😒
We literally have peanut butter and jelly at home🤣🤣😩, but he wants to try the Lunchables so I was able to find them today at target . #lunch #snacks #kidslife #momlifestyle #sundayroutine Follow me I’ll follow back 🫶🏾💕
Livvy_Livvy.

Livvy_Livvy.

1170 likes

ASKING FOR ICE IN EUROPE IS A WHOLE EXPERIENCE! 🧊😂
Soo.. as a European who moved to the USA, I’ve seen many videos about how it’s hard to get ice in Europe. So, after years away, I had to put it to the test in Germany… and it’s TRUE! 😂 🍕 But all jokes aside, the food at this restaurant was INSANE. Super good, so give it a visit if you’re in Mun
TwoSolesAbroad

TwoSolesAbroad

186 likes

Well I care
#lemon8dairy so a bunch of volunteers came together to try to help these families
ponie_time

ponie_time

0 likes

Asking my students what they ate for dinner 🤣👏🏼
Mommy of 2 here with a husband 🤣 Ya girl is running out of ideas 💡 helpppp lol we are a no red-meat household 🩵 sidenote: I’ve been recording myself more lately & have observed that I move around A LOT! Any ideas? I think I might have ADHD because IDK how else I manage to do 1057892.56 things i
Sara A James

Sara A James

2932 likes

Stop asking accepted students for their med lists
Start asking how they built it. A school list is personal math. It reflects someone’s stats, residency status, financial reality, long-term goals, and support system. Copying it without context is like borrowing someone else’s prescription. Better questions to ask: How did you decide which sta
Tyra-Lee 🩺

Tyra-Lee 🩺

6 likes

See more