Claim OwnershipThe Optimist Daily's Weekly Roundup
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Do you like the stories from around the world that recognize and celebrate the people and events making a positive change? Tune in to The Optimist Daily's Weekly Roundup, where our solutions-focused stories continue, and hear behind-the-scenes discussions from the people bringing you the news.
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This week, Arielle and Karissa spotlight two game-changing breakthroughs: MIT’s new battery concrete, which could turn buildings into energy storage devices, and a Swedish study showing that low-dose aspirin may significantly reduce the risk of colorectal cancer recurrence in certain patients. We break down the science behind both discoveries—and how they might shape the future of our cities and our health. Want to be part of the Optimism Movement? Become an Emissary. Subscribe to our FREE Daily Newsletter and follow us on Instagram, X, and Blue Sky. Transcript link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/?p=1420895 The Optimist Daily is a project of the World Business Academy. Donate link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/donate-to-support-the-optimist-daily/?gift=Y%20http://
In this episode, Karissa and Arielle begin in the Pacific Islands, where Indigenous leaders are creating the world’s first ocean sanctuary designed to preserve migratory routes across national borders. Then we turn to the science behind why women tend to live longer than men—and what those findings can teach us about resilience, biology, and the future of health. A thoughtful conversation about stewardship, survival, and what it means to care across generations. Want to be part of the Optimism Movement? Become an Emissary. Subscribe to our FREE Daily Newsletter and follow us on Instagram, X, and Blue Sky. Transcript link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/?p=1420855 The Optimist Daily is a project of the World Business Academy. Donate link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/donate-to-support-the-optimist-daily/?gift=Y%20http://
Arielle opens the episode with a quick update—she’s feeling under the weather, so Karissa is taking the reins this week. In this bite-sized round-up, Karissa highlights some of the most intriguing stories from Optimist Daily, including science-backed benefits of kimchi, fresh debates around cold plunges, and why ultra-processed foods may be on their way out of California school lunches. It’s a speedy, feel-good listen packed with health and sustainability wins. Want to be part of the Optimism Movement? Become an Emissary. Subscribe to our FREE Daily Newsletter and follow us on Instagram, X, and Blue Sky. Transcript link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/?p=1420817 The Optimist Daily is a project of the World Business Academy. Donate link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/donate-to-support-the-optimist-daily/?gift=Y%20http://
In this week’s Optimist Daily Roundup, Arielle and Karissa explore solutions that inspire connection and community. From Warsaw’s new underground library that encourages commuters to swap scrolling for stories to expert insights on why you don’t need one “best friend” to feel fulfilled, the episode highlights practical ways to strengthen belonging. Click here to nominate your Local Changemaker of 2025. Every nomination enters you to win a cozy Optimist Daily mug! Want to be part of the Optimism Movement? Become an Emissary. Subscribe to our FREE Daily Newsletter and follow us on Instagram, X, and Blue Sky. Transcript link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/?p=1420787 The Optimist Daily is a project of the World Business Academy. Donate link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/donate-to-support-the-optimist-daily/?gift=Y%20http://
This week, Karissa and Arielle dive into stories of transformation. From India’s empowering divorce retreats to science-backed reasons to embrace aging with open arms. They discuss why aging might just be the best chapter of your life (spoiler: less stress, more joy), how one woman’s loss became a movement for survivors, and what we can all learn from the quiet power of sisterhood and resilience. Whether you’re healing from heartbreak or aging like fine wine, there’s something here to lift your spirits. If you are in the United States and experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) for 24/7 confidential support. In India, you can reach the national women’s helpline at 181 or contact the Aks Foundation crisis line at +91 87930 88814 and aksfoundation.org. If you are outside the US or India, visit www.befrienders.org to find international hotlines and support resources in your country. Click here to nominate your Local Changemaker of 2025. Every nomination enters you to win a cozy Optimist Daily mug! Want to be part of the Optimism Movement? Become an Emissary. Follow us on Instagram, X, and Blue Sky. The Optimist Daily is a project of the World Business Academy. Donate link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/donate-to-support-the-optimist-daily/?gift=Y%20http://
In this week’s roundup, Arielle and Karissa explore two powerful solutions shaping the future of health and sustainability. First, discover how five simple fitness tests—like balancing on one leg or your natural walking speed—offer surprising insights into longevity and independence as we age. Then, journey to the Netherlands, where architects are transforming old wind turbines into stylish, eco-friendly tiny homes. Along the way, they reflect on wellness, COVID recovery, and why optimism fuels progress. Tune in for science, sustainability, and a dash of everyday inspiration. Click here to nominate your Local Changemaker of 2025. Every nomination enters you to win a cozy Optimist Daily mug! Want to be part of the Optimism Movement? Become an Emissary. Follow us on Instagram, X, and Blue Sky. Transcript link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/?p=1420711 The Optimist Daily is a project of the World Business Academy. Donate link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/donate-to-support-the-optimist-daily/?gift=Y%20http://
This week, Arielle spotlights the return of our Local Changemakers Series! From food justice in Olympia to climate activism and dog rescue in Thailand, last year’s nominees inspired us with their creativity and compassion. Now we’re inviting you to nominate the people and projects making a difference in your own backyard. Plus, every nomination enters you to win a cozy Optimist Daily mug! Tune in to hear inspiring stories from last year and learn how to share yours. Click here to nominate your Local Changemaker of 2025: https://www.optimistdaily.com/2025/09/2025-local-changemakers-series/ Want to be part of the Optimism Movement? Become an Emissary. Follow us on Instagram, X, and Blue Sky. Transcript link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/?p=1420674 The Optimist Daily is a project of the World Business Academy. Donate link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/donate-to-support-the-optimist-daily/?gift=Y%20http://
This week Arielle and Karissa are exploring solutions both personal and global—from Rocky Mountain National Park’s inspiring accessibility upgrades to playful ways adults can tap into back-to-school energy. They also take time for an I’m an Optimist, But… reflection on women’s safety, a reminder that optimism doesn’t ignore hard truths. Tune in for thoughtful stories, practical tips, and a big dose of hope. Want to be part of the Optimism Movement? Become an Emissary. Follow us on Instagram, X, and Blue Sky. Transcript link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/?p=1420650 The Optimist Daily is a project of the World Business Academy. Donate link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/donate-to-support-the-optimist-daily/?gift=Y%20http://
This week on the podcast, Arielle and Karissa explore surprising yet powerful solutions—from Stanford’s breakthrough brain-computer interface that decodes inner speech (complete with a mental privacy password!) to the top five preventable injuries that send people to the ER—yes, avocado hand is on the list. They also touch on a handful of other standout headlines from Optimist Daily, including conch-blowing sleep solutions, a historic gonorrhea vaccine rollout, and clever ways to save on groceries. Tune in for a smart, practical, and slightly mind-blowing roundup. Transcript link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/?p=1420598 The Optimist Daily is a project of the World Business Academy. Donate & Become an Emissary: https://www.optimistdaily.com/donate-to-support-the-optimist-daily/?gift=Y%20http://
This week, Arielle and Karissa explore two powerful shifts in health and wellness. First, they dive into YCT-529, a promising hormone-free male birth control pill that may finally bring more balance to reproductive responsibility. Then, they share a simple but impactful habit: a one-minute daily wellness check-in designed to increase self-awareness, reduce burnout, and help you focus with kindness. Transcript link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/?p=1420557 The Optimist Daily is a project of the World Business Academy. Donate link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/donate-to-support-the-optimist-daily/?gift=Y%20http://
In this week’s episode of The Optimist Daily’s Weekly Round-up, Arielle and Karissa explore two powerful stories that spotlight how cities are becoming safer, smarter, and more inclusive for both people and animals. Arielle shares how Amsterdam is installing tiny wooden staircases along its iconic canals to help cats and wildlife escape safely— a small fix with a big heart. Karissa highlights a growing movement in German cities where subsidized night taxi vouchers are helping women get home safely after dark. Tune in for feel-good solutions that prove cities can evolve with compassion. Transcript link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/?p=1420519 The Optimist Daily is a project of the World Business Academy. Donate link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/donate-to-support-the-optimist-daily/?gift=Y%20http://
In this episode, Karissa and Arielle explore two uplifting stories of transformation. First, they look at how Southern California communities are rebuilding sustainably after the Eaton Fire—repurposing concrete, steel, and trees into roads, buildings, and soil. Then, they dive into groundbreaking canine cancer research showing how dogs are helping scientists detect and treat cancer faster—for both pets and people. Learn how our furry companions are becoming environmental sentinels and how shared biology could unlock longer, healthier lives for us all. Transcript link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/?p=1420468 The Optimist Daily is a project of the World Business Academy. Donate link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/donate-to-support-the-optimist-daily/?gift=Y%20http://
In this episode of The Optimist Daily’s Weekly Round-up, Arielle and Karissa explore two uplifting solutions that challenge overconsumption and digital overwhelm. First, they dive into the growing trend of screen-free living among younger generations, highlighting how a quiet rebellion is reshaping our relationship with technology. Then they spotlight Poppins, a joyful French app inspired by Mary Poppins’ magical carpet bag, designed to help neighbors borrow instead of buy everyday items. From raclette machines to baby cots, this circular sharing model is saving money, reducing waste, and sparking real-life community connections. Tune in to discover how technology can help us simplify, reconnect, and live more sustainably. Transcript link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/?p=1420440 The Optimist Daily is a project of the World Business Academy. Donate link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/donate-to-support-the-optimist-daily/?gift=Y%20http://
This week on The Optimist Daily’s Weekly Round-up, Karissa and Arielle explore two unexpected environmental heroes: a pinecone-inspired wildfire sensor called Pyri, and the misunderstood but essential role of vultures in ecosystem health. Discover how design students in London are helping prevent devastating fires with biodegradable tech and how Bulgaria’s ambitious rewilding project is reviving Europe’s rarest vulture species. From the power of biomimicry to the hidden brilliance of “ugly” animals, this episode is a love letter to nature’s resilience and innovation. Transcript link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/?p=1420399 The Optimist Daily is a project of the World Business Academy. Donate link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/donate-to-support-the-optimist-daily/?gift=Y%20http://
In this special episode of The Optimist Daily’s Weekly Roundup, Arielle and Karissa discuss the devastating Texas floods and how to respond with both compassion and care. They walk through trusted ways you can contribute to flood relief efforts and also share practical mental health strategies for navigating collective grief—a response many of us feel when tragedy strikes close to home. 💡Featured articles: How to cope with collective grief when tragedy strikes close to home How to help Texas flood victims as the death toll rises 📍Resources to support Texas flood relief: American Red Cross – Emergency shelters and aid (or call 1-800-HELP-NOW) The Salvation Army – Mobile kitchens, supplies, and volunteers Kerrville Kroc Center – Local donation drop-off point Kerr County Flood Relief Fund – Regional relief via Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country Austin Pets Alive! – Animal rescue, fostering, and vet care World Central Kitchen – Hot meals for survivors and first responders TEXSAR – Texas Search and Rescue – Recovery operations and emergency response Verified GoFundMe Campaigns – Support individuals and families directly Whether you’re donating, spreading the word, or just taking a mindful breath—every action counts. ❤️ Transcript link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/?p=1420363 The Optimist Daily is a project of the World Business Academy. Donate link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/donate-to-support-the-optimist-daily/?gift=Y%20http://
In this week’s episode of The Optimist Daily’s Weekly Round-up, Arielle and Karissa revisit Part II of our popular 2020 series on allyship—this time diving into what effective allyship really looks like in practice. If you missed Part I on performative allyship, you can read it here! They explore actionable ways to show up for marginalized communities with intention and consistency whether that means unlearning internal biases, financially supporting underrepresented creators, or stepping back to let others lead. Then, the conversation shifts to a solution that proves joy knows no age limit: Belgium’s Papy Booom nonprofit is helping seniors fight loneliness with unforgettable nightclub outings. Transcript link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/?p=1420308 The Optimist Daily is a project of the World Business Academy. Donate link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/donate-to-support-the-optimist-daily/?gift=Y%20http://
This week on The Optimist Daily’s Weekly Roundup, Arielle and Karissa dive into ocean-inspired solutions. From sea moss superfoods and memorial reefs that turn human ashes into coral habitats to breakthrough plastics that dissolve in seawater and soil without leaving a trace. Plus, they mention more of the week’s top headlines on climate, health, and connection, like community dementia cafés, a ‘Green Fee’ in Hawaii, and the subtle science of trust. Tune in for a grounded yet hopeful look at where sustainability and human dignity meet. Transcript link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/?p=1420279 The Optimist Daily is a project of the World Business Academy. Donate link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/donate-to-support-the-optimist-daily/?gift=Y%20http://
This week, Arielle and Karissa dive into the science of little treats—those small, joyful moments that can regulate stress, boost dopamine, and support mental health. They also spotlight a record-breaking $50M donation launching a global endometriosis research hub and reflect on the urgent need for trans rights and dignity during Pride Month. From strawberry matcha lattes to structural change, it’s a hopeful, honest conversation about caring for ourselves and creating a better world. Transcript link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/?p=1420246 The Optimist Daily is a project of the World Business Academy. Donate link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/donate-to-support-the-optimist-daily/?gift=Y%20http://
This week, Arielle and Karissa explore the science behind sunshine guilt and share simple tips for reframing guilt with self-compassion. Then they chat about fridge-free tortillas helping vulnerable communities in Mexico. Plus, they highlight other forward-thinking solutions—from volcano-forecasting trees to coral-saving nanoparticle gels and National Park Cities. Transcript link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/?p=1420209 The Optimist Daily is a project of the World Business Academy. Donate link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/donate-to-support-the-optimist-daily/?gift=Y%20http://
In this week’s round-up, Karissa and Arielle dive into the mighty chia seed’s digestive benefits and Cadence’s push to make emergency contraception as accessible as a pack of gum. Join them as they explore real-world solutions making a difference. Transcript link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/?p=1420180 The Optimist Daily is a project of the World Business Academy. Donate link: https://www.optimistdaily.com/donate-to-support-the-optimist-daily/?gift=Y%20http://
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