The Optimistic American

This episode of The Optimistic American kicks off season two – listen to learn about what’s to come, addictive technologies, the history of prosecutions in Iraq’s and their impact on Dr. Emily Bashah, and what to consider and do to avoid falling prey to “amygdala hijacking”.   This episode discusses what’s to come in season 2, as well as the prosecution of Jews in Iraq and how that impacted – and...

Join Dr. Bashah and Paul Johnson as they unearth the origins of idealism. The discussion begins with ancient philosophers describing the power of idealism. Idealism is a common trait of CEOs who create new and innovative products, our founders who used idealism to form a more perfect Union, and the secrets on how you can use idealism to create a better you.   Imagine this: a life full of possibili...

In an age when Americans seem to be divided, Paul Johnson and Dr. Basha, focus on the important idea that, “It’s we, not me.” Service and belonging are connected! They help answer the question, “with all the things I have going on, with everyone else seemingly looking out for themselves, why should I focus on giving anything back? What is it for me?”    They examine what makes being an American sp...

This episode explains why gut-wrenching poverty exists, which leaves 1.29 billion people in the developing world struggling to live on less than $1.25 a day.  And in what could be a depressing subject, Professor James Robinson, gives a very hopeful, ambitious prognosis on how the US is leading the world moving forward the human condition.    The interview is based on the two internationally acclai...

Join Dr. Bashah and Paul Johnson, in this 5th of 7 episodes regarding addictive ideologies and how love and loneliness affect your sense of agency. How finding optimism can help you see the world clearly, and give you the ability to benefit from its opportunities.    This episode begins with a discussion of how even very successful people can find themselves alone and driven by the real need to be...

Robert Robb & Paul Johnson discuss Communism, Socialism and benefits of American Capitalism. The discussion covers how American Capitalism has done more to improve the quality of life and improve the human condition than any other system in the history of the world.   If you hate capitalism, you might want to skip this one, but if you are open to the idea that free markets have actually made the w...

Do you feel overwhelmed? Are you working so hard you are missing out on life and opportunities? Are you experiencing financial struggle? Do you feel isolated? Are you frustrated that you can't fix your business? Have you fallen short of the expectations you set for yourself? It's hard to grow a business when the economy is working against you. Mike Michalowicz is one of the most prolific writers f...

In this discussion with Paul Johnson and Peter Zeihan you will gain an understanding of the changing global order, and why you can be optimistic about the future of America. Many Americans have surrendered their agency to the negative nightly news, candidates, political parties and social media, who prosper from “if it bleeds it leads.” This has created a view of the world and America's position t...

Join Dr. Bashah and I in this series regarding the 7 steps to regain your agency.  Addictive ideologies promoted by the nightly news, political parties, candidates and social media can rob you of your ability to see the world clearly, and benefit from its opportunities.    This episode begins with Viktor Frankl’s experience in Nazi Concentration Camps and the development of his Logotherapy that is...

In this special episode of the Optimistic American, Joe Polish shares insights and transformative lessons from his upcoming book ‘What’s in it for them.’ You will learn about his journey to massive success, and how he overcame overwhelming personal and professional challenges to become one of the most successful entrepreneur, coach and networker in the world. If you’re a small business owner (or k...

Dr. Emily Bashah, a psychologist focused on trauma and related challenges, and Paul Johnson, host and founder of The Optimistic American podcast, discuss the “7 Codes” designed to help listeners/readers successfully navigate this divisive world.    Their 7 Codes: Make Space for Optimism Begin Anew and Start with Love We Not Me – We Belong to Something Bigger Strength Over Safety Real Power is With...

This is a new series focusing on helping you reclaim your sense of "agency". Agency refers to the human capability to influence one's functioning and the course of events by one's actions. You may not be able to control your destiny but you can control your fate. There are three forms of Agency one can influence others: Individual - You bring your influence on what you can control Proxy - You brin...

This is a new series focusing on helping you reclaim your sense of "agency".   Agency refers to the human capability to influence one's functioning and the course of events by one's actions. You may not be able to control your destiny but you can control your fate. There are three forms of Agency one can influence others: Individual   - You bring your influence on what you can control Proxy - You...

Regina Revarova, a Russian émigré, journalist and podcast consultant, experienced first-hand the terror of Russian stormtroopers crashing down her doors, taking computers and planting drugs to intimidate her journalism family. Raised in a small mining town in Siberia, she learned journalism and experienced the horrors of Russian destruction of Chechnya, including the burning of innocents in a scho...

Solange Whitehead serves on the 7-member Scottsdale City Council. An “accidental politician,” she ran for office to protect the largest preserve in the country, the McDowell Mountain Preserve. Like most city elections across the country, candidates run as non-partisans. Whitehead supported her candidacy by knocking on thousands of Scottsdale doors. She notes that effort not money drives successful...

Larry Summers, the 71st US Secretary of the Treasury (under President Clinton) and President Emeritus and professor of economics at Harvard University, sees more than most that America’s best days are ahead. Dr. Summers predicted America’s current tussle with inflation, the highest profile person to so. He observed excess liquidity, high savings and low interest rates likely would pressure prices...

Kevin Cherilla, co-founder and owner of K2 Adventure Travel, leads groups to summit mountains like Mt. Kilimanjaro. His team guides groups of 30-40 individuals to surmount their fears and limitations and climb higher. He and his colleagues teach their clients to put forth the efforts needed for success, be present in the moment and work together in teams, and instill patience in people who otherwi...

Dr. Michael Crow, 16th President of Arizona State University, discusses how he and his team transformed ASU into one of the world’s best public research universities over the past 20 years. 145,000 degree-seeking students attend online, in person, via other methods. ASU’s new model is accessible, excellent and impactful to local communities, and hosts among other successes the largest engineering...

James Bates, an electrical engineer by schooling and CEO of a self-driving technology company, applies the artificial intelligence (AI) lessons he learned to retail healthcare (e.g., grocery store or pharmacy clinics). AdviNOW resulted, implementing AI tools that reduce upfront administrative burdens patients face, focusing the time of medical experts/providers actual care rather than paperwork. J...

Professor Michael Beckley’s newest book details why common wisdom about America’s economic and military challenges – especially compared with China – fails when correctly analyzed. His data-driven book, “Unrivaled,” underscores why no rivals, today or tomorrow, truly challenge the United States, the #1 superpower. Professor Beckley, an associate professor of political science at Tufts University,...

Former Arizona Governor Fife Symington and Phoenix Mayor Paul Johnson, once fierce political opponents, discuss robust learning from people whose opinions differ, and how to change your minds. Both believe that abundance, hope and optimism must resonate with all Americans. America The Great!   To watch the show, visit The Optimistic American on YouTube!

Rep. Marcelino Quiñonez shares the inspiring story of his American journey. He talks about his transition from being a Mexican immigrant to becoming a U.S. citizen, the importance of education and how it impacted his family, his sources of inspiration, and his unwavering belief in the American dream. He also expands on his success as a playwright, the responsibilities of being a public servant, wh...

Successful American entrepreneur Jerry Moyes, past CEO and founder of Swift Transportation, paints the pathways for others to build successful American companies. He faced his darkest days but emerged to the joys of business creation. And all as the adopted Dad of 11 children! Don’t miss this one!   To watch the show, visit The Optimistic American on YouTube!

Psychiatrist and Bosnian concentration camp survivor sheds light on the unimaginable inhumanity of war, the urgency of hope and optimism during the darkest times, and his heartfelt journey to U.S. citizenship. He draws parallels to current divisions in America and what we now need to do to strengthen our country.   To watch the show, visit The Optimistic American on YouTube!

Chuck Coughlin, an American pollster, lobbyist, and Republican operative discusses how voters with no political affiliation now rule American politics but are not yet organized. He argues all voters oppose overwhelmingly the current two-party political system. They resist the stranglehold that America’s two-party system squeezes on American throats and demand change now.   To watch the show, visit...