Mr. Bright Side

A lot of us think that in exercise, more is better. We all just don't do enough. But perhaps we're giving too much. In today's interview, our guest, Chad Morris, discusses how people over-train to their detriment, as they give up way too much time, money, effort, sweat, and stress in return for way too few fitness returns and way too many tears in frustration and discouragement. What if we could do a lot less for a lot more? Check out Chad's Myogenics fitness studio: https://www.myogenicsfitness.com/Take a virtual tour: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aPtUPL53uEASee Chad's 2019 TOS-Con Talk: 'Basic Principles and Pitfalls of Fitness Training: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_74PPgFlJsCheck out (son) Seth's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdyHsGgESyglhKDvKzTXDcQWatch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GwU-Y5aIn74Learn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Lisa VanDamme, educator and parent (which you'll see are both understatements), has answers regarding education and parenting that stem from an approach which I might describe as rationally passionate or passionately rational—I can't decide which is more appropriate. In any case, you'll hear the clear thinking down to the root of each issue that ought to concern any parent or person concerned with the future generation and the society they will help build and in which we all must live. You'll also see the passionate love for her children and students shine through in our interview.I'm sure that after hearing Lisa's unique approach to the subject dearest to any parent, you will be wondering where you can find a teacher like her or a school like hers, or how you might also apply some of her insights toward being the best parent you can be for your child—and more, how you can appreciate and enjoy the journey of parenting even more deeply than you might.Find Lisa and get involved with her projects:VanDamme Academy: https://www.vandammeacademy.com/VDA on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/VanDammeAcademyDocumentary, 'A Little Candle': https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hv2TWkmTIlE&t=327sRead With Me: https://readwithmesalon.com/info/homeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisa.vandammeEnjoy Parenting podcast: https://aynrandcentre.co.uk/Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=85KSIMblOTULearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

We've got to clear away some weeds--and sometimes even some healthy plants--to make room for new growth. Matthew makes and announcement about taking a step away from regular Mr. Bright Side podcast episodes.Don't worry! He will still be pursuing particular guests who he personally wants to have on, and will publish those interviews as they come. And on top, he will be back in some new incarnation at some point. Listen in for details as to what and why, and think about what you might drop from your own life that may not be as necessary as you think.Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1JznhSRn1l0Learn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Good stuff is happening, and it's much more common than the negative. Listen in for some optimistic news that's going on in the world.In Part 1 of this two-part series, Matthew highlighted some of the astounding feats of medical science, while expounding on what this means for the lives of real individuals like you and him–and those we love. In Part 2, he presents a variety of thrilling innovations that promise to make our lives even more convenient, fun, and simply richer with experience. Man, is this exciting!Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWvUmu0u8EkLearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Good stuff is happening, and it's much more common than the negative. Listen in for some optimistic news that's going on in the world.In Part 1 of this two-part series, Matthew highlights some of the astounding feats of medical science, while expounding on what this means for the lives of real individuals like you and him–and those we love.Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sKMuFctZVH4Learn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Matthew sets some context after he was apparently “busted” breaking his own rules, the same rules he claimed on his show were so helpful in leading him to get more done and enjoy his free time even more. Who is he to be sharing advice with people if he doesn't actually practice what he preaches?Fair question. On today's episode, he responds.See how setting boundaries is not restrictive but liberating, and how higher context goals ought to inform lesser ones. And then how we can be kind to ourselves while more deftly walking the line between rationalizing bad choices and not beating ourselves up to where we paralyze action.Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V6rg8gM3FfELearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Matthew elaborates on the lyrics of My Morning Jacket's 2011 “Circuital,” and the themes and lessons within. He also comments on the music itself, as it is an exhilarating and joyous song.What are you going to do with your glorious and limited time “out on the circuit”?Listen to Circuital: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m8EtNSUy93UWatch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WqXr2xyFvUILearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Should I save now to have for later? Spend now for life experience at the expense of one’s future security? How much either way? And then spend on what? Acquiring things or experiences? And then at what balance? These are all questions one must answer for oneself, and there is no “right way” to live.But depending on the answers, there is something that comes across in how much we experience in life in how much grace we carry ourselves with and in how we deal with others. It shows through in one’s carriage and being, so that we in effect “wear” that experience. It is also revealed to ourselves when no one else is looking in how much we are truly satisfied with the experience of our own lives.Matthew’s wife said that while she used to spend much of her salary on designer bags and clothes, she now prefers to “wear her experience,” and he shares their discussion about that theme in today’s episode.Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MqJBzluBZaYLearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Does success lead to optimism or does optimism lead to success?Matthew's university classroom was divided, although none doubted the correlation. They were all ready, then, to accept the idea of a "virtuous circle." But a question remains: Where can one enter the circle?Well over a year ago, Matthew wrote a very brief essay titled “Enter at Optimism,” in which he describes this classroom discussion scene that led him to a realization. He proceeded in the essay to lay out that realization. Today on this show, he elaborates on the main points.Read the essay: https://matthewboulton.ca/2020/01/16/enter-at-optimism/Listen to the Ep. 57, an interview with Rich Curtis: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tk9czy_Z4Cw&t=277sWatch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jVQ_qmK7scILearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

“Giving is getting” but this popular idea does have a qualifier that must be highlighted and properly understood, as it is often mistaken to refer to some kind of losing in the short term to gain in the long-term—which it kind of is yet isn’t. In this episode, Matthew distinguishes “giving” from “losing” so that we’re not trying to say anything paradoxical like “losing is winning.” There need be no losers for everyone to win.In this episode, Matthew relays two recent experiences to help describe a benevolent view of goodwill and generosity towards those around us versus the uninspiring concept of duty towards others. He also highlights what kind of mindset is necessary to create perpetual “organic” win-win relationships. Properly conceived, it’s a beautiful thing.Listen to Matt Hill's interview on the Boulton from Boulton podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_sCm_fkb7IWatch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfFDdJ_p0iALearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

What stories are we telling ourselves and the people we love? Are they serving us or hurting us? And them? In today’s show, the power of story is made alarmingly clear—I mean powerful at the neurochemical level, and I mean alarmingly in that many of us are mostly passive in allowing old, unchecked, and disempowering stories about ourselves drive us—and not anywhere we want to go.But fear not, as Rich shares with us his four-step story-evolution process to help us access our brain’s filter database and take an active role in creating new filters to rewrite the stories that are holding us back to ones that promote our happiness and values, as well as creating systems that defend our good habits.This interview was loaded, as we are the beneficiaries of Rich’s “personal Ph.D” in happiness he earned over an intense two-year period, as he beckons to us from atop the shoulders of giants in neuroscience, positive psychology, and behavioral psychology with clarifying and directly actionable advice that I really think is an extra level of what I’ve been looking for in terms of, “Now, what do I do?”Get in touch with Rich at: http://www.richcurtis.com/Buy his book, 'Change Your Story, Change Your Life': https://www.amazon.com/Change-Your-Story-Life-Happiness-ebook/dp/B08KZM7RX8/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=rich+curtis+change+your+story&qid=1617944442&sr=8-1Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tk9czy_Z4CwLearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

At minimum, you will leave this interview feeling confident and optimistic about yourself, your world, and the prospects in it, as Christmas Hutchinson convincingly reminds each of us that we're worth more than we give ourselves credit for. Not a little more...way more.Throughout, she repeatedly gives refreshingly novel takes on what self-preservation and resilience mean, and if you pay good attention, you'll walk away with the thinking and tools to achieve them. Check Christmas out at: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realchrissytv/Website: https://chrissytv.com/Podcast: https://chrissytv.com/podcast/Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGBZS5E6znQLearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebpodcast/mr-bright-side/id1503114628

Why do some people thrive in the face of hardship while others are crushed? To this challenging listener question, Matthew answers essentially that it’s about building resilience through the method of optimism versus the default of passive pessimistic resignation. On a deeper level, it’s about free will (optimistic) versus determinism (pessimistic).Through his search into Viktor Frankl’s “focused optimistic purpose” and “tragic optimism”, Matthew came across a phenomenon known as “toxic positivity,” which sounds awfully similar to his own concept identified as “subjective optimism.” Neither pessimism nor subjective optimism is an effective method for dealing with hardship, or even regular life, and Matthew goes deep into why only Objective Optimism is a potent antidote to the toxicity of all the others.He also refers to two previous interviews, where guests Lewis Page and Dr. Fleet Maull contribute relevant insights on this issue, which includes the question of whether “waking up” necessitates deep adversity. (Hint: It doesn’t.)Read 'What is Objective Optimism?": https://matthewboulton.ca/2020/01/15/what-is-objective-optimism/Listen to Lewis Page on Mr. Bright Side: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T3rj9aZ94rY&t=528sListen to Fleet Maull on Mr. Bright Side: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jbolq8MX9MY&t=3sWatch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPV9AovHYK8Learn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Are we basically good or evil? How can we transcend our culture of "blame and shame"? Why do we give away our power to others? How can we be less reactive and more proactively responsible for our own actions and well-being? What does it mean to take full ownership for our circumstances, and why is this empowering? What are the physical benefits to mindfulness training, on top of the obvious mental and emotional benefits?Dr. Fleet Maull, renowned mindset growth teacher and meditation teacher, has the answers to all of this and much more. Learn about mindfulness training from Matthew's rookie perspective with expert advice. If anyone has the credibility earned through personal experience on top of his vast teaching and clinical experience, Dr. Maull also has a tremendous history which is at once fascinating and heartbreaking. He not only talks the talk; he's walked the hard walk and proved that his approach truly empowers. Visit Dr. Maull: https://fleetmaull.com/Heart Mind Institute: https://hmi.fleetmaull.com/Prison Mindfulness Institute: https://www.prisonmindfulness.org/Mindfulness in Public Safety: https://www.mindfulpublicsafety.org/Learn about the book and get a FREE chapter: https://www.radicalresponsibilitybook.com/Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jbolq8MX9MYLearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Whether you’re depressed or not, none of us are operating in perfect mental health. And in any case, we all need to be better educated for those around us who may be struggling and for whom we might make a difference. Lewis Page, successful and respected soccer coach, loved father, husband, friend, and all-around popular and healthy guy, does not fit one’s typical image of what depression looks like. Yet he lives with it.Hear how shocked people were to see his 2016 Bell Let’s Talk Day video in which he revealed his struggle, and the overwhelming reaction that he couldn’t have been prepared for. Then learn about his most recent video, in which he shares his current state of successful dealing with depression, including all the reasons why. In this outstanding interview, Lewis tells us how the “silent thief” steals one’s joy, energy, and ambition, but then how to employ tools and practices to live happily in spite of mental health problems. Learn something for yourself and for those around you, because “every action matters.”Find Lewis on Twitter: https://twitter.com/lewispage6Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T3rj9aZ94rYLearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Most personal finance perspectives focus on savings and investment, and offer advice such as “don’t buy coffee every day.” But such practices are not conducive to living a liberated and happy life, and it’s not what moves the needle in one’s financial well-being besides.“The goal is to enjoy your life,” says guest David Veklser, “not to die sitting on a big stash of cash.” Listen to learn more about David’s integrated philosophical perspective on personal economy, with plenty of relevant and practical advice and examples. He’s achieved all that he preaches, and his wisdom can help you think more fundamentally and effectively toward the end of living your own optimal life. Matthew claims this interview is going to be a multiple re-listen in years to come.Read the article: https://davidveksler.com/2020/10/20/ten-personal-finance-principles-ive-learned-over-40-years/See David’s website for more resources and empowering content:https://davidveksler.com/Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lt0mgABJrZgLearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

It’s weird to me that anyone is ever against capitalism.”Hear why Tim thinks it’s weird, and hear loads of other inspiring stories and ideas in this packed episode. Let us just lay it on you in points. Tim goes off entertainingly on:-his lifelong obsessions with persuasion as leading him to a career in marketing-dropping out of uni to the devastation of his parents without any real plan, and the pressure that put on him to make good-how starting a marketing agency is not what you imagine-college degree as a social-class symbol-self-education, original ideas, and first break after multiple rejections-childhood entrepreneurship and lessons, including the thrill or high of making sales and profit-why capitalism is not well-defended for lack of moral arguments-profit is noble and good (“leaving the world better than you found it”)-almost all attacks on capitalism are on strawmen-how the US is a geographically and culturally rich nation that few venture to see and understand-the diversity of the US’s culture reveals the genius of federalism-Tim’s upcoming “Happy Capitalist” podcast-way, way more than thisRead Tim's book: https://www.amazon.com/Hanging-proven-marketing-strategy-ambitious/dp/1517495121/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1SEE0LRAVSDIG&dchild=1&keywords=high+hanging+fruit+book&qid=1611132377&sprefix=high-hanging+fruit%2Caps%2C337&sr=8-1Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngP8k6mDRI0Learn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

No, it’s nothing to do with The Killers.In this early milestone 50th episode, Matthew reflects a bit by sharing a brief history as to why he proceeded to call the show “Mr. Bright Side,” knowing full well that it would always be confused with the 2004 mega-hit Killers song. He also shares a few personal stories over the years which have reflected back to him his natural tendency to optimism and enthusiasm, long before he ever developed his mature and formal philosophy. Listeners can take a lesson in self-awareness from these reminiscences.He wraps with some well-deserved thanks to listeners, guests, a friend, and his wife in a sincere delivery of appreciation and gratitude for their part in making this podcast at all possible, as well as a quick announcement about upcoming shows.(*Please note that Mr. Bright Side will be temporarily moving to a bi-weekly schedule. Listeners are encouraged to review some past episodes they may have missed if they’re looking to fill the gap. In any case, weekly schedule will resume before too long, no doubt!)Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J_R4b0ABfxELearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

At what age does one become a fully-formed individual? One modern-day comedian and one sage character from a short story published in 1939 have both offered a similar magic number. How is that two people from distinctly separate eras and experience have both identified the same thing?In this episode, learn where Matthew heard Ricky Gervais and Parker Pyne, respectively, how he recognized in his own life the truth of what they say, and what advice he has for younger and older people alike.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcLQ2n3mXNIHear Ricky Gervais on SiriusXM podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cbR5rmNEIcw&t=223sRead Parker Pyne stories by Agatha Christie:https://www.agathachristie.com/stories/parker-pyne-investigatesLearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Free time gets old quick.Retired people know this. So what’s the cause of that antsy, anxious feeling that makes it so that you just can’t enjoy your leisure time anymore? And how can we remedy this?Planning endless celebrations and leisure activities are like using sugar for energy. They seem to extend the good feeling for a moment but are not long-lived or give us anything authentic. In this episode, Matthew shares his recent experience that reminded him of what is true for all of us—of what we need, by our nature, to fully enjoy our free time.Read Atlas Shrugged: https://www.amazon.com/Atlas-Shrugged-Ayn-Rand/dp/0451191145Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XTBbfSm-64Learn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

How does charity fit into a life dedicated to gaining—not surrendering—values? If healthy human relationships are about win-wins, and charity is about gaining nothing for oneself, then is it good? And why do many of us feel so unfulfilled after engaging in sacrificial charity, if it’s the right thing to do?Matthew answers all this and more on this week’s episode, as he outlines a positive image of what non-sacrificial charity can and ought to look like. Duty is ugly, so relieve yourself of the burden of guilt this holiday season and beyond, and see that charity is a beautiful and rewarding thing when properly conceived.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wlNzhqRjBh4Learn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

There is a war on against Christmas. And it’s coming from all directions. From one point, it is attacked for being too “commercial” and “material.” From another, and right in step with the general cancel culture that’s pervaded our society, Christmas is maligned for being “exclusive,” as it is taken as the purview of a single religion (and a majority one in the West, which is an even graver sin today): Christianity.But what if we separated the holiday from religion?Matthew argues that this is precisely what we ought to do, as when we sift out the essential characteristics that define the benevolent Christmas spirit—earthly joy and material pleasure (i.e. commercialism)—we find that what we all love about Christmas are such secular elements, which are in fact incompatible with explicit Christian morality.Taken for what it truly is, Matthew can't imagine anything more lovingly inclusive.Read the article upon which Matthew’s class mini-lecture was based: https://newideal.aynrand.org/an-atheists-tribute-to-christmas/Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7u6uilJz24Learn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

How are billionaires and trillionaires regarded in our culture, and what does it say about us?Last week, Matthew referred to a children’s science textbook outlining three symbiotic relationships in nature: mutualism, parasitism, and commensalism, and argued that only win-wins (mutualism) are good while win-lose/lose-wins (parasitism) are immoral.This week, he shows how commensalism (win-neutral) as defined in that text reflects the symbiotic relationship between giants of innovation and production in any field and all of humanity, as he compares the former to sharks. But far from emphasizing that animal’s predatory characteristic, he argues that they are the great benefactors of humanity to whom we all owe a solemn debt of gratitude.Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fgz7KzUcxbMLearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

If win-win relationships are possible, why should we want any part of a win-lose or lose-win? Yet lose-win is what conventional morality offers us explicitly if we take it seriously. And we ought to take it seriously. Our self-esteem and mental health depend on it.Hear how an elementary school science textbook made this issue clear to Matthew during a private lesson with a Korean junior high school student, as the text discussed the three symbiotic relationships: mutualism, commensalism, and parasitism. And hear why only mutualism is fit for human beings.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oyW0VYjonroLearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

What is a personal “culture” or identity? And is it ours to shape as we like, or is it determined by factors beyond our control?How did a Bob Dylan quote from an interview in Netflix’s Rolling Thunder Revue encapsulate an answer to this idea that gave Matthew to cheer?In this episode, Matthew gives a (revised) talk from his English conversation course at Hansin University in Korea, “Defining and Developing Your Own Personal Culture.” While many people today seek to find their identities in a group culture, both Bob Dylan and Matthew encourage otherwise.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GgiHCv5J720See 'Rolling Thunder Revue' on Netflixhttps://www.netflix.com/title/80221016See last week's 'Mr. Bright Side': https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oTUzGmKkpB4Check out ‘Boulton from Boulton’ podcasthttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFSqePbI2yqyfYNZcy9VgTA?view_as=subscriberListen to this podcast on:Apple/ Spreaker/ Google podcasts/ Castbox/ Podchaser/ Podcast Addict/ Deezer/ Spotify/ iHeartRadio*If a link is not available in your area or otherwise has an issue, try another for now and come back to try again!Get involved in the conversationVisit the Mr. Bright Side Facebook page and get involved in the optimistic conversation!Learn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Matthew had been feeling less than optimal for the past several months, but with one small change, his world has brightened again. The change was dramatic and almost immediate.Hear how revisiting the powerful ideas of a couple outstanding thinkers prompted Matthew to drop Facebook (almost entirely), and hear about the positive change in his life since.Learn what power there is in the question, “Does this promote my agenda?” and quiet the noise in your own life while turning up the things you love. It is a joyous place to be.Listen to Alex Epstein’s Human Flourishing Project, ep. 20:https://www.facebook.com/HumanFlourishingProject/posts/2122577244472296Read Deep Work by Cal Newport: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1455586692?pf_rd_r=TMB6XSJEWPH07K420BF6&pf_rd_p=6fc81c8c-2a38-41c6-a68a-f78c79e7253fWatch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oTUzGmKkpB4Learn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Who is the imposter who grows inside us all, trying to evict us from our own bodies and lives? Why and how do we empower him?In the previous episode, Matthew discussed the importance of conviction in achieving health goals (and in all aspects of human flourishing). Here, he highlights and dissects a verse from Andrew Bird’s “Masterswarm” which encapsulates the issue and motivates Matthew when he’s on the road running.Hear why we must arrive at more clarity in our positive goals and then act with more conviction toward achieving them if we’re going to evict the would-be evictor.Listen to 'Masterswarm': https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VefSx5_-kZkWatch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wU4TtpTKoYELearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

You can make your unwanted cravings disappear. Matthew has. And he’s here to describe how.The process requires regular introspection and reflection, and it is all about conviction. One negative: that you are convinced that the unwanted thing really is toxic to your agenda, and one positive: that you are convinced of the good of your agenda.In physical health, this means understanding clearly how and why the foods and behaviors that are thwarting you are actually thwarting you, and then how and why the state of optimal health feels and is so good for you that it’s addictive.Read the article upon which this show was based:https://matthewboulton.ca/2019/02/16/crave-the-body-you-want/Listen to Alex Epstein’s Human Flourishing Project, ep. 20: https://www.facebook.com/HumanFlourishingProject/posts/2122577244472296Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vN2Qq54Tfq0Learn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

We don’t want to see our kids hurting. We certainly don’t want to be the cause of their pain or the object of their hatred. This is the fear that keeps parents and teachers from showing their disappointment, anger, or indignation to kids, instead attempting to explain things to them in a gentler way with no expression of how their actions have made us feel.But kids need to feel some emotional pain in the form of guilt or shame when they are in the wrong.In this episode, Matthew recounts an anecdote from his childhood and how his father’s indignant and angry reaction impressed the lesson in him and forged an admirable character trait that serves him still today.Read the article upon which this show was based:https://matthewboulton.ca/2019/02/09/thanks-for-being-scary-dad/Watch Boulton from Boulton special episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDXr2FZtyqY&t=2sWatch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SkiPl_xKPPoLearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

What would embolden you to take on a suicide mission against a terrifying and colossal evil? What makes a leader? How can a leader be convincing and motivate those he proposes to lead? Aragorn in The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King shows us the answers.Using his famous speech at the Black Gate of Mordor for illustration, Matthew explains how a real leader “walks the walk” and motivates his troops by an appeal—not to sacrifice for a “noble cause greater than themselves”—but rather, to their own selfish values they stand to gain and wish to defend.Referring to a past article written on this blog, he breaks down the speech with passion, sharing why he thinks it is among the most powerful and moving epic battle speeches ever performed on film.Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w02oEnTgSesRead the article: https://matthewboulton.ca/2019/03/10/aragorn-values-and-leadership/Learn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

We must sacrifice a lot for love, right? That's just common knowledge. Matthew disagrees. He would never sacrifice anything to anyone. And neither should you, he argues. But would he die for that which he loves? Sure. What the wha'???With the help of some lyrics from the song "I'll Fight" by Chicago alt-country band Wilco to concretize the issue (and calling upon a key scene from Ayn Rand's 'Atlas Shrugged' to drive it home), Matthew clarifies the concepts of sacrifice and love, and why "I'll die for you" is really an act of integrity in the selfish pursuit of one's highest values. Listen to 'I'll Fight": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ypAbkFRKNwwRead Atlas Shrugged: https://www.amazon.com/Atlas-Shrugged-Ayn-Rand/dp/0451191145Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Oem_y_GlkgLearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

What is the source of value and production: brain, brawn, or both? How does Disney/Pixar’s ‘Ratatouille’ dramatize the answer? What does intellectual independence look like? What is Anton Ego’s motivation in being a food critic?Join Matthew in revisiting this delightful movie, as he highlights some of the moral, economic, and philosophical themes of this fun family film, focusing on three in particular. While hopefully gaining some new insight and appreciation of the dramatization of such themes, you can also enjoy reliving the magic through various clips.If you liked episode 21 on ‘The Castle,’ you’re likely to enjoy this, too!Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipRTiYx39HILearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

It's not about effort. It's about mindset. We're already working hard. Our ideas make sense, else we wouldn't be doing them. What most of us need---and are missing---is a breakthrough in our thinking. Yet that breakthrough at first won't make sense...Want to know more? Listen to mindset coach Jarrod Haning, as he and Matthew discuss the following and much more in this interview full of powerful ideas leading toward that breakthrough shift:-life coach vs. performance coach-attitude vs. mindset-music and your brain-why to-do lists slow you down ("You are the assistant.") -How is stage fright related to business success?-personality tests vs. the MindScan (and how the former are dangerous)-how to uncover thinking blindspots-Operating in your "clumsy" vs. your "genius"-how to arrange your day around your "zone of genius"-mindset "pushups"-Thinking Patterns of Success-Jarrod's unusual personal accomplishmentsLearn more about Jarrod:Website: https://www.mindsetperformance.co/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/haningTedX Talks:Trying Harder Won't Get You There: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BFK2knjj4lQBreakthrough on Demand: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vmdo2rKI6JkThe surprising power of your brain on music: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-J712xqcUMBook: https://www.mindsetperformance.co/book.htmlWatch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UpoMYPHF2-kLearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Does good etiquette lead to self-esteem? Or is etiquette just a social convention imposed upon us and a show put on for others?Learn the "meaning behind the manners," as Nita Patel distinguishes traditional and modern etiquette, defining the latter as "where outer actions and your inner awareness come together to achieve your best self."Nita always shares her passion for her artwork and why it is healing for her and for others. Website: https://www.nita-patel.com/Book: https://www.amazon.com/Boss-Vibes-Self-Esteem-Success-Etiquette-ebook/dp/B08G71GPM8Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=udUMyRfEFvMLearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Be a better version of yourself every day. This is the essential message strength & conditioning coach Jim Goetz brings to Mr. Bright Side in this wide-ranging and highly-informative interview, as he shares his experience in pro sports and beyond. He and Matthew discuss:-pro athletes mentalities & coaching-youth sports & coaching-new training methods-how to prevent injury-diet myths & fads-biohacking (and book)-upcoming Keto Project movie-chiropractic benefits & misconceptions-the "Functionised" brand-achieving the extraordinary through the consistent execution of the ordinary-What does Jim think of the Blue Jays' present and future??-much, much moreLearn more about Jim:Website: https://www.functionised.com/Keto Project movie: https://www.functionised.com/keto.htmlBook: https://www.amazon.com/BioHacking-Brain-Success-Becoming-Champion-ebook/dp/B073TRHMBYSocial media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/functionised/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/functionised/Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6dJ0kweBjILearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

How does voice betray us? What can we tell in a person's voice? How can we re-connect with ourselves through voice? How can we develop and nurture a more authoritative, assertive, influential voice? Cynthia Zhai has unflinching answers, as she shares with Matthew the principles and ideas that empower her many clients. These latter are not singers, as is commonly thought upon hearing of a "voice coach," and while mostly business leaders, they include regular people looking to transform themselves into a more powerful and influential individual--with others, and within oneself. Learn how to live a life that's more fulfilled, connected, and true to yourself in this fascinating interview.Find Cynthia:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/cynthiazhaiWebsite and resources: https://www.powerfulexecutivevoice.com/Social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cynthia.zhaiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthiazhai/?originalSubdomain=sgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cynthiazhai/?hl=koBook, 'Influence Through Voice': https://www.amazon.com/Influence-Through-Voice-Cynthia-Zhai/dp/9814691348Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6HEVvoJkMPILearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Get educated and inspired on nutrition, health, and life. Get hopeful and excited about deliciously sweet but healthy food products created by self-educated food scientist and serial entrepreneur Thom King. This guy is really impressive.In this rich and fun interview, Matthew and Thom discuss:-Self-education on any topic-Ketogenic diet, ketosis, fasting-Autophagy and its effect on degenerative disease-Guy Gone Keto book and products (the miraculous properties of allulose)-Food labels-Presence and mindfulness-Role models (Thom's grandfather, for one)-Entrepreneurship-Why Thom likes My Morning Jacket (Matthew's personal indulgence topic)-So, so, so much moreLearn more about Thom:Icon Foods: https://iconfoods.com/Guy Gone Keto: https://www.guygoneketo.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/guygoneketoFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/guygoneketo/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guygoneketo/?hl=koLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steviva/Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fKV5FSFNLsLearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Everyone deserves quality education and the chance to unlock their potential. Scott Lee is on a mission to develop "the Netflix of education" so every student may have access to opportunities to find that one mentor who can make a difference in their lives. In this interview, find out how and why Gooroo was founded, and how Scott envisions connecting students with mentors who inspire, not just teach a subject. Also hear about Scott's fascinating and character-building experience in the Korean military when he went back to serve his two-year mandatory service. In Matthew's view, Scott himself is an inspiring role model for students and professionals alike, and you'll want to make sure you hear how he thinks about humility, risk-taking, failure, and taking the positives out of any experience. Check out Gooroo: https://www.gooroo.com/Reach out to Scott: scott@gooroo.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottyongboklee/Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uC0R42mqztULearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

How can you start to love the home you live in? Why is furniture so expensive? How important is color in a room, and how do I discover what colors I like--and where I like them? How about windows, lighting, plants, art? Phew, that's a lot. Design is expensive and time consuming, yet our homes exert an influence on us every moment of every day. To do design well, however, if you don't hire somebody, it takes a lot of strategy.Donna Hoffman, having already helped over 100,000 "Design Divas" through her courses and community, is here to educate you. In this interview, she makes Matthew a "design divo" by taking him through the fundamental strategies and logic of design. You'll be sure to want to follow Donna after this highly educational interview. Follow Donna: Website: https://theinteriordesignadvocate.com/Learn interior design: https://theinteriordesignadvocate.com/interior-design-online/Instagram:@decorating.genius: https://www.instagram.com/decorating.genius/Luxury design company handle: @idhdesignshttps://www.instagram.com/idhdesigns/Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O3sw6gfjvvMLearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Why do parents dread the "teen" years? And should they?Dr. Cam says that if you expect the worst, you get the worst. But instead, if you understand why your teens act the way they do and expect good things, adolescence can actually be an ENJOYABLE experience. Find out how teens and parents can build and enjoy a relationship of understanding and appreciation, as she tells Matthew about her P.R.I.M.E. framework and other fascinating, empowering, and encouraging insights about adolescence. Follow Dr. Cam and get a FREE first consultation: www.askdrcam.comWatch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-IGpdS3Xm8ELearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Ending overeating is a lot simpler than it's made out to be. This is the hopeful and confident message Dr. Glenn Livingston brings to listeners in this interview filled with helpfully illustrative analogies and colorfully-related personal stories. How do Big Pharma, the Food Industry, and Evolution play in your seeming lack of ability to control overeating? How can you quell your "inner pig"? Find out how Glenn has understood these and much more to dramatically change his own body and life, and to help his patients overcome the psychological struggles of binge eating.Get a free book and other powerful FREE resources by clicking the BIG, RED BUTTON at: https://neverbingeagain.com/Article link requested by Glenn: https://matthewboulton.ca/2019/07/14/delimit-to-be-free-in-diet/Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5QuDLOK66kLearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/

Why are our brains hardwired to resist change? How can happy colors, music, and laughter make us more optimistic? Enjoy the ebullient but scientifically savvy Sharon Glassman as she tells Matthew about how and why she created SmileSongs, how introverts make good public performers, and what optimism and happiness require. If you need a shot of energy and positivity, this interview will set you off in the right mood for your day!Follow Sharon!Website: https://smilesongs.com/VIP mailing list: https://smilesongs.com/vipInstagram: @smile_songshttps://www.instagram.com/smile_songs/Mr. Bright Side:Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hfhglzpepS4Learn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

How can you unlock your resilience? How can you unblock your inner limits? How does stress empower your inner saboteur?Edita Atteck, Breakthrough Specialist, answers all this and much, much more, as she shows Matthew and listeners how to rewire our inner programming, release our limitations, and optimize our mindset.Masterclass, starting July 27th: https://www.editaatteck.com/community/Book, 'Awaken Your Inner Leader': https://www.editaatteck.com/book/Website: https://www.editaatteck.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/editaatteck/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EditaAtteckpage/Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rD5ibia9QvULearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Is clutter keeping you from living your optimal life? Kim Sneath is an expert clutter coach who can help you get back space (inner transformation), get back time (outer transformation), and get back to balance (life transformation).In this fun and informative interview, Kim teaches Matthew and listeners about the Chaos cycle and how to break it toward achieving Space for Grace. Kim is the real deal who gets results. See Kim's FREE ecourse, 'When Life is a Mess,' to get organized, take control, and win your life back! Her approach is uniquely effective, and this 25 minutes will be the best you spend this week: https://kimsneath.kartra.com/page/whenlifeisamessTry out a FREE GIFT CALL to see whether Kim can't help you take back your life: https://kimsneath.com/contacthttps://kimsneath.com/services/ola/services/virtual-clutter-coachingGeneral website: https://kimsneath.com/Follow her Facebook group, Clutter Busters: https://www.facebook.com/groups/kimsneathLearn more about Mr. Bright Side at: https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Being your own hero means being a role model to yourself and others. It means becoming someone you can look up to, admire, respect. This is self-esteem, and it's the foundation for happiness. But it doesn't require that you achieve superhuman feats or massive achievements in one swoop. Join Matthew as he discusses the daily choices and behaviors that everyone may practice, and how being a hero is attainable for everyone. And necessary for everyone. Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLwr0iM5PZMListen on other various podcast media: https://matthewboulton.ca/audio-link/Bill Burr YouTube clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldIwEG9xQ-M&t=127sLearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Are you "just living" or are you fully alive? The latter doesn't have to mean you're jumping out of airplanes and swimming with sharks. In this interview, best-selling author and sought-after speaker, Danny Bader, offers a tried and tested system for developing a vision of your best self and creating that reality--today and every day.Matthew enjoys a fun yet deep conversation with Danny, as he shares his near-death experience and the lessons henceforth that shaped his own path of resilience and led him to develop the five jckrbbt(TM) principles. Learn what these are and much, much more. If you need a reboot, you're sure to feel uplifted after this interview. Links to Danny:Website: https://www.dannybader.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_dannybader/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dannybaderauthor/Back to Life podcast: https://www.dannybader.com/podcastBooks:Back to Life: https://www.amazon.com/Back-Life-Resilience-Danny-Bader/dp/1732706638I Met Jesus for a Miller Lite: https://www.amazon.com/I-Met-Jesus-Miller-Lite/dp/1732706603Abraham's Diner: https://www.amazon.com/Abrahams-Diner-Simple-Relaxed-Inspiration/dp/173270662XWatch this interview on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XgUbeI1oSALearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Can money buy power? Can corporations oppress the little guy in a free market? The answers are unclear if we don't separate the forces at play in a mixed economy. The 1997 classic Australian comedy, 'The Castle' offers a unique opportunity for defenders of freedom, capitalism, and individual rights to expose what really makes villains such as the big, bad Barlow Group possible. (Hint: It isn't money.) In this episode, Matthew unpacks the mixture of freedom and statism to make the issue clear, and by exploiting the fact that the movie appeals to people across the whole political spectrum, we might discover a principle we can all get behind. He also highlights and celebrates the pure optimism and appreciation of Darryl Kerrigan, the main protagonist of the story. Links to videos used:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nMuh33BMZYYhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PmlMv5givwQhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uCtMTbKX6_Ihttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5smoo7ipoc0https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C8WLuQOLq5Qhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C8WLuQOLq5Qhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C97Su6VtxxsWatch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQI5m_WLFFULearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

"Never has there been a better time to be alive in human history." So claims the opening line of this podcast.Guest Jason Crawford delivers an overwhelming case to back it up--which is his business. As a writer on the history of technology and industry, his expertise and encyclopedic ability to highlight example after example of real-world progress in the past centuries, decades, and years will stun you. As a thinker and writer on the philosophy of human progress, he helps reinforce Matthew's desperate calls to look, see, and appreciate how good we've all got it. You may also learn about Jason's promising new Progress Studies for Young Scholars program, the importance of funding in the realization of progress, and of evaluating various funding models to ensure optimal allocation of resources. On this last, hear Jason defend his bold claim that: "Anything that can be for-profit ought to be."In all, this is a rich interview that you might want to listen to a few times over. After hearing the impressive and gracious Jason Crawford, we are all defied to wish that we were alive at any other time.Links to Jason's work:Website, The Roots of Progress: https://rootsofprogress.org/Twitter: https://twitter.com/jasoncrawford Progress Studies for Young Scholars program: https://progressstudies.school/Three articles on the importance of funding models: https://rootsofprogress.org/organizational-metabolism-and-the-for-profit-advantagehttps://rootsofprogress.org/funding-models-for-science-and-innovationhttps://rootsofprogress.org/funding-models-and-progressEpic Twitter thread with NYT writer: https://twitter.com/jasoncrawford/status/1230974962925572096Mr. Bright Side links:Listen on Apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/kr/podcast/mr-bright-side/id1503114628Listen on other various podcast media: https://matthewboulton.ca/audio-link/Learn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

It is either the "economy" or "lives"? Are "asymptomatic carriers" a frightening reason to stay home? Hasn't Korea had success because of strict social distancing and strong governmental restrictions?No, no, and not even close.Matthew invites guest host Jason Cresswell to help him clear up the confusion on false-choice and fearful thinking, and to lay out an an extensive picture of what Korea looks like day-to-day. (Hint: It isn't a picture of North Korea.)Poor thinking has kept people mostly locked down well past the "flattening the curve" stage. If we want to optimize human flourishing--within which safety and health are encompassed--Matthew argues that we need freedom to choose and act in the pursuit of our values.Drop your fear and pick up your freedom!Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ETuPokNoHyM&t=605sLearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Who decides what is safe? For whom? Can others force their tastes on you? What is a right? What constitutes a violation of rights? Should the government protect you from your own choices? Matthew argues that innovative, fun, delicious, and culture-enhancing products and services that we might enjoy never come into existence because of party poopers. Who are they, and why do they want to poop the party?Think along as he takes three examples from his life in Korea, and see if you can't induce the principle of individual rights with him.Listen on Apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/kr/podcast/mr-bright-side/id1503114628Listen on other various podcast media: https://matthewboulton.ca/audio-link/Learn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/

Either-or thinking is keeping us from making good choices, both in socio-political issues and in our personal lives. In the former, false alternatives are often erected to establish partisan lines which substitutes rationalization for rational thought, keeping us further from solutions. In the latter, a similar method of rationalization (advocating for choices based on emotional considerations) keeps us from making optimal choices by never defining a rational goal.Instead, Matthew argues that we ought to define our desired goals more precisely to enable us to be more objective in evaluating proposed solutions to problems. He refers to a recent Ben Bayer article and ideas from his two most recent guests to help us unpack what's going on, and uses Covid-19, hitting and fighting in hockey, guns, and other examples to help illustrate and contrast helpful and unhelpful approaches. Ben Bayer article: https://newideal.aynrand.org/the-dangerous-thinking-behind-pandemic-partisanship/Interview w/ Elizabeth Benton: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ydr8CzVunDU&t=970sInterview w/ Dane Maxwell: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=osb5kAzXDvo&t=2254sLearn more at https://matthewboulton.ca/ or https://www.facebook.com/matthewboulton.ca/