250. Mike Baker | The Optimists Way

In today’s episode, we have the pleasure to interview Mike Baker, author of The Optimist’s Way: Rising With Hope Toward Purpose and Light.Mike is a CEO, artist, musician, and father of three who’s spent decades leading with empathy in community healthcare while creating art and music that amplify hope. He’s the founder of The Optimist’s Way — a movement and a message rooted in resilience, creativity, and connection.In this episode, you’ll learn why optimism isn’t blind positivity — it’s a daily, conscious choice rooted in presence and purpose; how slowing down helps you find meaning in the chaos; and how Mike’s creative use of AI has opened new doors for storytelling, healing, and expression.We hope enjoy this incredible conversation with Mike Baker.To Learn More about Mike and buy his  book visit: The Book: https://a.co/d/025B2IqWebsite/Socials: https://mikebakerhq.com/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091396103160https://www.youtube.com/@Mike-BakerMusichttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mikebaker1398/https://tiktok.com/@mikebakerhqhttps://instagram.com/infinitecanvasai**Chapters may slightly vary depending on ad placement**Chapters: 0:00 Intro1:24  Why optimism & gratitude are important in a chaotic world2:51  Realistic optimism vs toxic positivity (“show your work!”)7:08  Stoic joy: Understanding what you control & your choices10:34  Deep meaning in Mike Baker’s book14:06  The need for the optimist’s way16:01  AI’s role in creating art with Mike20:52  Tired about life? Go the optimist’s way21:46  Your attention is a form of love25:36  Making others feel like a million bucks30:26  Slowing down & letting your brain breathe33:45  Being quicker to forgive & say sorry35:40  Where to find Mike36:24  Ironmans & Spartan Races39:02  Slow down and find the beauty around you40:09  Mike’s mentors & their influence________________________________________________Join the world's largest non-fiction Book community!https://www.instagram.com/bookthinkers/The purpose of this podcast is to connect you, the listener, with new books, new mentors, and new resources that will help you achieve more and live better. Each and every episode will feature one of the world's top authors so that you know each and every time you tune-in, there is something valuable to learn. If you have any recommendations for guests, please DM them to us on Instagram. (www.instagram.com/bookthinkers)If you enjoyed this show, please consider leaving a review. It takes less than 60-seconds of your time, and really makes a difference when I am trying to land new guests. For more BookThinkers content, check out our Instagram or our website. Thank you for your time!