The Eternal Optimist - podcast cover

The Eternal Optimist

The ‘Eternal Optimist’ is the show for people who see the good in the world and want to make a positive difference in the lives of their families and communities! Twice a week Matt Drinkhahn will help you see challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. You’ll start thinking bigger and playing offense in life more consistently. Every week you’ll hear inspiring stories from people who faced immense challenges and KEPT GOING.
Last refreshed:
Follow this podcast in the Metacast mobile app to refresh it and see new episodes.
Download Metacast podcast app
Podcasts are better in Metacast mobile app
Don't just listen to podcasts. Learn from them with transcripts, summaries, and chapters for every episode. Skim, search, and bookmark insights. Learn more

Episodes

From Overwhelm to Control: The Thinking Time Method with Matt Drinkhahn

Matt Drinkhahn joins the Millionaire University podcast and shares the transformative power of "Thinking Time," a simple yet effective habit that can help entrepreneurs overcome overwhelm, make better decisions, and achieve exponential business growth. Drawing from his personal experiences and insights from renowned business leaders like Keith Cunningham, Matt outlines how dedicating regular time to focused, distraction-free thinking can unlock new levels of success in both personal and professi...

Aug 20, 202431 minEp. 196

Why Disabilities Shouldn’t Equal Low Expectations with Julie Sowash

Julie Sowash shares her powerful journey of overcoming hidden disabilities while rising to become a leader in the field of disability advocacy. Battling daily panic attacks, navigating the complexities of mental health, and challenging the low expectations often placed on people with disabilities, Julie talks about the hurdles she faced along the way. She addresses the flawed systems that fail to support those with disabilities and highlights the importance of creating meaningful opportunities r...

Aug 16, 202431 minEp. 195

Succeeding Despite It - Not Because of It: Living with OCD with Bob Burg

In this episode, Bob Burg opens up about his lifelong struggle with OCD, sharing how it has shaped his personal and professional journey. He discusses what he went through and the strategies he has developed to manage his condition, all while achieving success as an author. Bob also offers insights into the books that have influenced him and what it means to live with OCD. Tune in to get inspired! Chapters 00:00:00 - A Warm Welcome to Eternal Optimist 00:00:42 - Meet Bob Burg: The Interview You'...

Aug 13, 202429 minEp. 194

Navigating Entrepreneurship: Family, Fitness, and Tutoring with Glenn Kliemisch

Matt sits down with Glenn Kliemisch, the founder of MST Tutoring, to explore his inspiring journey from being a premature baby labeled with learning challenges to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Glenn shares his experiences of overcoming adversity, the pivotal role his mother played in his education, and his dedication to helping students succeed in math, science, and test preparation. With anecdotes about managing burnout, the importance of goal-setting, and balancing personal passions like...

Aug 09, 202448 minEp. 193

Distraction: The Silent Killer of Productivity with Mike Fancher

In this episode, Matt welcomes Mike Fancher to the show to tackle the issue of distraction and its impact on our lives. Mike shares his journey, from a near-fatal car accident that changed his life to the creation and eventual closure of MindFit USA. The discussion goes into the concept of deep work as a powerful tool to combat distraction, the hidden costs distractions impose, and the importance of pivoting in the face of adversity. Tune in to get tips and advice on maintaining focus, overcomin...

Aug 06, 202446 minEp. 192

Intuition in Business: A Strategic Approach to Success with Dina Vince

Dina Vince, a seasoned strategist with a unique approach to business leadership is joining Matt to share her experiences, from a recent health scare to her journey from Vilnius to Israel, and how these shaped her professional insights. She discusses the importance of empathy, open dialogue, and questioning in leadership. Dina also talks about her unexpected path to becoming a business strategist and the lessons she learned from working with diverse clients. Her story shows the value of intuition...

Aug 02, 20241 hr 1 minEp. 191

Journaling: The Secret Weapon for High Achievers and Busy Parents with Trent Booth

Trent Booth discusses the impact of journaling on emotional well-being and personal growth. Trent shares how journaling helped him process the grief of miscarriages and how it continues to aid him in navigating life's highs and lows. Trent talks about being consciously aware of one’s emotions and the power of capturing life's moments in writing. You’ll gain insights into journaling techniques and the surprising benefits of pausing to reflect on both joyous and challenging experiences. This episo...

Jul 30, 202457 minEp. 190

Corporate Rebels: How to Drive Change When No One Else Will with Shannon Lucas and Tracey Lovejoy

Matt has a fascinating conversation with Shannon Lucas and Tracey Lovejoy. They share their journeys from high school overachievers to leaders in corporate anthropology and executive coaching. Shannon and Tracey discuss their work with catalysts—individuals who drive change and innovation within organizations—and how they help these leaders avoid burnout while achieving impactful results. You’ll get a powerful look at how understanding and leveraging natural talents can lead to both personal ful...

Jul 26, 20241 hr 8 minEp. 189

Business Growth Through Customer Loyalty with Jim Packard

Jim Packard shares his journey from a young entrepreneur facing a debt-to-equity ratio of 34 to 1, to selling his business to a Fortune 500 company. He discusses how a life-changing $3200 investment in network marketing laid the groundwork for his success and how he weathered a catastrophic flood that nearly destroyed his business. Jim’s relentless optimism and innovative approaches to customer retention and business development shine through, offering lessons on resilience, goal-setting, and th...

Jul 23, 202439 minEp. 188

Curiosity Didn't Kill the Cat: Turning Questions into Success with Carl Lubbe

In this episode Carl Lubbe, a renowned curiosity coach, shares his inspiring journey from South Africa to the USA and how curiosity has been a pivotal force in his personal and professional life. He digs into the power of asking questions to deepen relationships and build safer, more connected environments. As he talks about encounters with celebrities like Taylor Swift and lessons from his globetrotting experiences—Carl provides listeners with insights into enhancing their business acumen and i...

Jul 16, 202444 minEp. 187

The Eternal Optimist: Embracing Adversity for Growth and Balance with Matt Drinkhahn on Your Brand Amplified Podcast

This is an episode of “Your Brand Amplified” where Matt was a guest! Matt shares his incredible journey, from his early days in sales to becoming a successful business coach and podcast host. He opens up about a life-changing zipline accident and the severe spinal injury that tested his resilience and determination. You’ll learn how Matt aligned his personal values with his professional life, overcame significant challenges, and found a renewed sense of purpose. Anika and Matt’s conversation is ...

Jul 09, 202443 minEp. 186

Finding Light in Darkness: Tales of Resilience and Optimism

In this episode, we are revisiting impactful conversations with previous guests. Featuring insights from Brent Perkins, Mike Kaeding, Denny Hammack, and Erik Hatch, this episode goes into their personal journeys, the challenges they've faced, and the wisdom they've gained. You’ll hear about the importance of presence, redefining success, and the power of forgiveness. Tune in to these stories of overcoming adversity and leading with intention. Chapters: 00:00:00 - Happy 4th of July to You and You...

Jul 02, 202459 minEp. 185

Burnout and Recovery with Matt Drinkhahn on the Burnout Recovery Podcast

Matt is sharing his guest appearance on the Burnout Recovery Podcast with Dex Randall. He opened up about his journey through the highs and lows of dealing with burnout. Matt talks about his relentless drive for success that led to severe burnout and physical health crises, including a near-fatal injury. Matt discusses how mentorship and life-changing experiences helped him re-prioritize his life, ultimately finding a balance between professional ambition and personal well-being. This conversati...

Jun 25, 202440 minEp. 184

The Bright Side: Navigating Life’s Struggles with Hope

In this special highlight episode, Matt brings together powerful stories and insights from guests Ronica Cleary, Justin Breen, Chananya Abraham, and Brianna Greenspan. They share experiences of resilience, identity, and overcoming fear. Ronica talks about the myth of perfection in public speaking, while Justin reflects on his entrepreneurial journey marked by tenacity and learning from hardships. Brianna opens up about her health challenges and deep gratitude, and Chananya discusses balancing pr...

Jun 18, 202456 minEp. 183

Firing Back: How Losing a Job Can Win You Your Freedom with Nikolas Hulewsky

Nik Hulewsky, co-founder of CoFounders, shares his journey through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, personal loss, and family life. From discussing his many business ventures and the lessons learned from both successes and failures, to opening up about the impact of his son's death, Nik offers a raw and insightful look into the realities that shape a person's character and drive. What he shares is a testament to the resilience required to overcome life's challenges and the wisdom gained t...

Jun 14, 202444 minEp. 182

When the Sky Is No Longer the Limit with Eric Farewell

Former test pilot Eric Farewell shares his experiences with aviation accidents, including several near-fatal crashes and emergency landings. Eric discusses the fine line between life and death when flying, offering insights from each close call. He talks about his personal journey through resilience and recovery, and his outlook on pain, endurance, and the power of confronting fears. This episode is about overcoming adversity and thriving in spite of it! Chapters: 00:00:00 - Opening Thrills: The...

Jun 11, 202447 minEp. 181

Controversial Convictions: Standing Firm in a World of Magnetic Morals with Dr. Andy Garrett

Dr. Andy Garrett shares his deeply personal journey through grief following a stillbirth, and how he and his wife used this experience as a foundation for developing what he terms "radical resilience." Throughout the conversation, Dr. Garrett discusses the significance of a "True North" identity—how a consistent set of values can provide stability and direction during turbulent times. Offering practical advice on resilience, the importance of supportive communities, and the power of reflecting o...

Jun 04, 202443 minEp. 180

Matt Drinkhahn Shares His WHY on the Stroke It Podcast with Jenny Townsend

In this special episode, we're featuring Matt Drinkhahn's guest appearance on the Stroke It podcast with Jenny Townsend. Tune in as Matt shares insights on understanding your WHY and how it can drive personal and professional success. He discusses the significance of love languages, building stronger relationships, and the concept of the "love wave" in marriage. Matt also talks about the importance of active listening in the workplace, giving and receiving feedback, and finding fulfillment in li...

May 31, 202442 minEp. 179

Why Dropping Your Dreams Can Lead to Greater Success with Gray MacKenzie

Matt sits down with Gray MacKenzie, co-founder of ZenPilot, to discuss his journey from high school baseball dreams to entrepreneurial success. Gray shares how he has personally and professionally evolved, detailing his identity shift from a high school athlete to a resilient business leader. Through discussions on overcoming identity crisis, leveraging faith, and learning from past challenges, Gray provides valuable insights into maintaining clarity, setting realistic expectations, and building...

May 24, 202441 minEp. 178

Fighting PTSD in the Ring with Mike Monroe AKA Xander Invictus

Wwe hear the incredible journey of Mike Monroe, better known as Xander Invictus. His life has been defined by resilience and passion. From his early days in small-town Ohio to serving as an Army medic in Iraq, Mike's story is one of overcoming adversity and finding purpose. We listen to his transition from the military to pursuing a career in professional wrestling and content creation, revealing the highs, lows, and everything in between. With raw honesty, Mike shares his struggles with PTSD, h...

May 21, 202451 minEp. 177

How Personal Loss Forged a Business Empire with Shane Skwarek

Shane Skwarek, owner & chief technologist of S-FX.com Small Business Solutions, stops by the show to tell us his remarkable journey of turning personal tragedy into professional triumph. Shane opens up about the impact of losing his father just as he was graduating college and how this defining moment shaped his entrepreneurial spirit. With raw honesty, he shares the challenges of leaving a secure job to build his own tech business, the lessons learned from early failures, and the resilience...

May 17, 202447 minEp. 176

Elevation of the Soul: Ascent to Gratitude with Saurabh Gupta

Saurabh Gupta, a cybersecurity architect, marathon runner, and avid musician, is here today to explore how unexpected challenges have made a lasting impact on his life. Saurabh shares his journey from a sedentary lifestyle to conquering one of America's highest peaks, Mount Whitney. You will hear stories of resilience, personal growth, and the profound gratitude that arises when pushing beyond perceived limits. Saurabh's stories of physical and professional triumphs offer you a window into how e...

May 14, 202444 minEp. 175

Bartending, ADHD, and the Road to Health Coaching with Marisa Moon

Marisa Moon is here sharing her life-changing journey from struggling with undiagnosed ADHD and battling depression to becoming a prominent health coach and advocate. Marisa's story gives us a peek into the hidden struggles of ADHD in women, challenging traditional diagnostic norms. She went from fashion studies to bartending, searching for interactive work environments that resonate with her personality. Through therapy and medication, she unlocked empowerment and family understanding. Marisa's...

May 10, 202449 minEp. 174

Success at What Cost? with Rich Moyer

Rich Moyer is a dynamic entrepreneur whose life story embodies the quintessence of turning personal challenges into professional triumphs. From his early days in the golf industry to creating a multimillion-dollar business, Rich shares his journey with candor and warmth. This episode takes us deep into the themes of resilience, innovation, and the impact of fatherhood on business acumen. Rich's reflections on overcoming the unexpected early arrival of his son, alongside his strategies for buildi...

May 07, 202443 minEp. 173

Beyond the Break: Stories of Remarkable Comebacks

In this episode we’re digging into the archives to bring stories of unimaginable challenges and extraordinary resilience. From Johanna White’s awe-inspiring battle with a life-altering diagnosis to Michael Horwitz’s recovery and transformation after a severe medical scare, and Susan Drumm overcoming perfectionism and conquering self-acceptance, these amazing stories highlight the indomitable human spirit. Each guest shares their unique journey of facing their darkest moments with courage and fin...

May 03, 202440 minEp. 172

Embracing the Flow of Midlife with Dr. Kelly Flanagan

Dr. Kelly Flanagan joins the podcast today to explore the reflective journey through the late forties, discussing the transformative power of embracing life’s limitations and the wisdom that comes with age. From celebrating milestones like birthdays and family weekends to making profound lifestyle shifts such as embracing sobriety, Kelly shares insightful narratives that reveal how midlife can be a time of deep self-discovery and personal growth. Matt and Kelly’s conversations about the challeng...

Apr 30, 202442 minEp. 171

Rise and Shine or Rise and Fail? with Alexei Musienko

Alexei Musienko, the awesome founder of OneRelationshipAway, opens up about his life-changing journey, detailing how structured morning rituals can lead to profound personal and professional success. Alexei shares his struggles and wins, telling the pivotal moments that reshaped his approach to each day. Alexei explains how the deliberate choices made at dawn can set the tone for a fulfilling life. You will leave equipped with actionable strategies to harness the quiet power of your own mornings...

Apr 26, 202449 minEp. 170

Two Roles, One Woman: Surviving the Split with Michelle Meehan

Michelle Meehan, a high-flying media executive and a devoted mother, courageously opens up about her journey of balancing the demanding scales of career success and family life. Michelle discusses the hardships of maintaining her identity through the trials of motherhood and the corporate world, telling how she reshaped her life's priorities following the birth of her children. Her story is a powerful testament to the resilience required to redefine personal success and happiness in the face of ...

Apr 23, 202433 minEp. 169

Secrets CEOs Won't Share with Chris Cooper

Today we’re going on an inspirational journey with Chris Cooper, a renowned fitness entrepreneur and author. Chris opens up about his humble beginnings and the pivotal moments that shaped his path from a self-doubting teenager to a visionary leader in the fitness industry. He shares lessons on overcoming adversity, the power of mentorship, and the strategies that catapulted his business to success! Whether you're seeking motivation to push through challenges or practical advice on building your ...

Apr 19, 202439 minEp. 168

Paddling Through Life: Olympic Wisdom with Joe Jacobi

Olympic gold medalist and seasoned life navigator, Joe Jacobi, is here sharing vivid stories of navigating both literal and metaphorical whitewaters. He discusses embracing life's challenges and transforming obstacles into opportunities. Joe ties together his elite paddling experiences with broader life lessons about making intentional choices that align with personal values and goals. You’ll not only hear about the philosophy of living with purpose but you’ll be inspired to consider how we can ...

Apr 16, 202458 minEp. 167
For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android