Demetrius Harmon: Embracing Your Unique Journey: The Strength To Lean Into Vulnerability, Discover More About Yourself & Honor Your Purpose The Optimist Project With Yara Shahidi podcast

Artwork

Society SiriusXM Podcasts & 7th Sun Productions SiriusXM

Content provided by SiriusXM Podcasts & 7th Sun Productions and SiriusXM Podcasts. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by SiriusXM Podcasts & 7th Sun Productions and SiriusXM Podcasts or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi « »
Demetrius Harmon: Embracing your Unique Journey: The Strength to Lean into Vulnerability, Discover more about yourself & Honor your Purpose

1M ago 48:54

Share

MP3•Episode home

Content provided by SiriusXM Podcasts & 7th Sun Productions and SiriusXM Podcasts. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by SiriusXM Podcasts & 7th Sun Productions and SiriusXM Podcasts or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.

This week’s episode of The Optimist Project is for my Gen Z peers and all those who love and support us. 💫

So many of us are battling self-doubt and navigating the complexities of mental health—a double whammy that can feel overwhelming. But here's the thing: we're not alone.

In this empowering conversation, we’re joined by the incredible Demetrius Harmon—writer, actor, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate. Demetrius, the founder of the global clothing brand @youmatter, opens up about his personal journey of entrepreneurship, while also grappling with his own mental health struggles. He shares how he’s learned to chase his dreams and build community, all while learning the importance of mental well-being. 🧠✨

In this episode, Demetrius and Yara dive deep into the delicate balance between pursuing your passion and prioritizing your mental health. If you’re feeling uncertain, overwhelmed, or just need a reminder that you’re capable of greatness, this episode is for YOU. Tune in for wisdom, motivation, and the comforting message: YOU MATTER. 💙

We’d love to hear how you're staying optimistic during this time. Leave a voice message at (323) 761-0837 or email us at askoptimistproject@gmail.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to share your own seeds of optimism and wisdom!

@optimistprojectpod // The Optimist Project Podcast

@yarashahidi // Yara Shahidi

@demetriusharmon // Demetrius Harmon

@chocolatemommyluv // Keri Salter-Shahidi

… continue reading

20 episodes

#Society #SiriusXM Podcasts & 7th Sun Productions #SiriusXM

Artwork

Demetrius Harmon: Embracing your Unique Journey: The Strength to Lean into Vulnerability, Discover more about yourself & Honor your Purpose

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi

published 1M ago

Share

MP3•Episode home

Content provided by SiriusXM Podcasts & 7th Sun Productions and SiriusXM Podcasts. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by SiriusXM Podcasts & 7th Sun Productions and SiriusXM Podcasts or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.

This week’s episode of The Optimist Project is for my Gen Z peers and all those who love and support us. 💫

So many of us are battling self-doubt and navigating the complexities of mental health—a double whammy that can feel overwhelming. But here's the thing: we're not alone.

In this empowering conversation, we’re joined by the incredible Demetrius Harmon—writer, actor, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate. Demetrius, the founder of the global clothing brand @youmatter, opens up about his personal journey of entrepreneurship, while also grappling with his own mental health struggles. He shares how he’s learned to chase his dreams and build community, all while learning the importance of mental well-being. 🧠✨

In this episode, Demetrius and Yara dive deep into the delicate balance between pursuing your passion and prioritizing your mental health. If you’re feeling uncertain, overwhelmed, or just need a reminder that you’re capable of greatness, this episode is for YOU. Tune in for wisdom, motivation, and the comforting message: YOU MATTER. 💙

We’d love to hear how you're staying optimistic during this time. Leave a voice message at (323) 761-0837 or email us at askoptimistproject@gmail.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to share your own seeds of optimism and wisdom!

@optimistprojectpod // The Optimist Project Podcast

@yarashahidi // Yara Shahidi

@demetriusharmon // Demetrius Harmon

@chocolatemommyluv // Keri Salter-Shahidi

… continue reading

20 episodes

#Society #SiriusXM Podcasts & 7th Sun Productions #SiriusXM

All episodes

×

T

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi podcast artwork

1
On Break : More Optimism to Come! 16:26

9 days ago16:26

16:26

💆‍♀️💆‍♂️Taking a break but we’ll be back! What an amazing journey it’s been, diving into the power of optimism and creating space for the big ideas that keep us inspired! With that same spirit, we’re taking a little time to recharge. That’s right—The Optimist Project is hitting pause for a short hiatus… but don’t worry, we’ll be back before you know it, refreshed and ready to bring you even more uplifting conversations! In the meantime, catch up on past episodes, revisit your favorites, and spread optimism by sharing them with friends. And we want to hear from YOU! Drop us a message, share your inspirations, and let’s keep the conversation going! 💬 DM us, leave a voicemail, or send an email — we’re listening! 📲 @optimistprojectpod // The Optimist Project Podcast ✨ Executive Producer: @yarashahidi // Yara Shahidi ✨ Executive Producer: @chocolatemommyluv // Keri Salter-Shahidi 📞 Voicemail: (323) 761-0837 🎧 Tune in NOW and join the conversation on @instagram!…

T

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi podcast artwork

1
KidSuper on Taking Optimistic Risks 57:59

17 days ago57:59

57:59

🎨 Creative Souls and Dreamers, This One’s for You! This week on The Optimist Project, I sat down with the wildly inventive fashion designer Colm Dillane — aka KidSuper. Known for his unforgettable Paris Fashion Week shows and his vibrant live-work studio space, Colm is a fearless, creative force. We explore the magic of blending optimism with fearlessness, the power of pursuing your passions unapologetically, and what it really means to embrace life with an open heart and curious mind. Plus, Colm drops gems for aspiring creators — hint: JUST START! We’d love to hear from you! What’s fueling your creative spark? Share your thoughts, ideas, and moments of inspiration: 💬 DM us, leave a voicemail, or send an email — we’re listening! 📲 @optimistprojectpod // The Optimist Project Podcast ✨ Executive Producer: @yarashahidi // Yara Shahidi ✨ Executive Producer: @chocolatemommyluv // Keri Salter-Shahidi 📚 Guest: @kidsuper // KidSuper 📞 Voicemail: (323) 761-0837 🎧 Tune in NOW and join the conversation on @instagram!…

T

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi podcast artwork

1
Dr. Becky Yang Hsu Breaks Down How Culture Defines Happiness 43:45

24 days ago43:45

43:45

✨What is happiness, really? And are we looking for it in all the wrong places? This week on The Optimist Project, Yara Shahidi sits down with sociologist Dr. Becky Yang Hsu to explore how different cultures define happiness—and why the solo pursuit of it might be too limiting. Dr. Hsu unpacks the surprising ways deep connections, community, and relationships shape fulfillment. (spoiler: it’s not just about personal wins). Maybe happiness isn’t something we chase—but everything we create together. 💡 Get ready to rethink what it means to live a good life. 🎧 Listen in NOW and join the conversation! 💬 send us your thoughts via DM, voicemail, or email at: 📲 @optimistprojectpod //The Optimist Project Podcast ✨Executive Producer @yarashahidi // Yara Shahidi ✨Executive Producer @chocolatemommyluv // Keri Salter-Shahidi 📚 @bexhsu // Dr. Becky Yang Hsu 📞 Voicemail: (323) 761-0837…

T

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi podcast artwork

1
Bisa Butler's Threads of Optimism using Art, Teaching, and Legacy 55:27

4 weeks ago55:27

55:27

🎙 The Optimist Project Podcast: Bisa Butler – Giving Our Past a New Life Through Art Today, I’m in conversation with the extraordinary Bisa Butler—artist, educator, visual historian, and creative futurist. Through her breathtaking quilted portraits, Bisa weaves history, identity, and resilience into fabric, redefining how we see the past and imagine the future. Join us as we explore the inspiration and drive behind her powerful body of work, which honors the rich and vibrant histories of Black life and culture. From her roots in academia to the world’s most prestigious galleries and museums, Bisa shares how her journey as both a student and teacher continues to shape her vision—proving that art is more than just an expression; it’s a revolution. This conversation is a masterclass in creativity, perseverance, and storytelling. If you’ve ever wondered how art can heal, inspire, and empower—this episode is for you. We want to hear from YOU! How are you investing in yourself while chasing your purpose? Drop us a voicemail, DM, or email and share your thoughts! 🔗 Listen NOW and be inspired! @optimistprojectpod // The Optimist Project Podcast @yarashahidi // Yara Shahidi @bisabutler // Bisa Butler @chocolatemommyluv // Keri Salter-Shahidi 📞 Voicemail: (323) 761-0837…

T

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi podcast artwork

1
Dr. Vee Kativhu: Igniting Optimism by Chasing her Dreams & Changing Lives 1:01:27

5 weeks ago1:01:27

1:01:27

Ready for a dose of inspiration? This week on The Optimist Project, Yara Shahidi sits in conversation with Gen Z global phenom, educator, author, and activist, Dr. Vee Kativhu, about chasing dreams, facing challenges, and lifting others as you rise. Dr. Vee gets real about how self-care can be the perfect shield against criticism, the importance and the power of community in grounding optimism, and how important her work in higher education is in breaking barriers for girls and young women in Zimbabwe and around the world. Resilience, empowerment, and a hopeful heart CAN turn dreams into reality! We want to hear from YOU! Head over to Instagram, leave us a voicemail, or shoot us an email about how you're investing in your mental health and chasing your purpose. Let’s share our seeds of optimism and uplift each other along the way. 🔗 Listen NOW and be inspired! @optimistprojectpod // The Optimist Project Podcast @yarashahidi // Yara Shahidi @veekativhu // Dr. Vee Kativhu/ @empoweredbyVee @chocolatemommyluv // Keri Salter-Shahidi 📞 Voicemail: (323) 761-0837…

T

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi podcast artwork

1
Demetrius Harmon: Embracing your Unique Journey: The Strength to Lean into Vulnerability, Discover more about yourself & Honor your Purpose 48:54

6 weeks ago48:54

48:54

This week’s episode of The Optimist Project is for my Gen Z peers and all those who love and support us. 💫 So many of us are battling self-doubt and navigating the complexities of mental health—a double whammy that can feel overwhelming. But here's the thing: we're not alone. In this empowering conversation, we’re joined by the incredible Demetrius Harmon—writer, actor, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate. Demetrius, the founder of the global clothing brand @youmatter, opens up about his personal journey of entrepreneurship, while also grappling with his own mental health struggles. He shares how he’s learned to chase his dreams and build community, all while learning the importance of mental well-being. 🧠✨ In this episode, Demetrius and Yara dive deep into the delicate balance between pursuing your passion and prioritizing your mental health. If you’re feeling uncertain, overwhelmed, or just need a reminder that you’re capable of greatness, this episode is for YOU. Tune in for wisdom, motivation, and the comforting message: YOU MATTER. 💙 We’d love to hear how you're staying optimistic during this time. Leave a voice message at (323) 761-0837 or email us at askoptimistproject@gmail.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to share your own seeds of optimism and wisdom! @optimistprojectpod // The Optimist Project Podcast @yarashahidi // Yara Shahidi @demetriusharmon // Demetrius Harmon @chocolatemommyluv // Keri Salter-Shahidi…

T

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi podcast artwork

1
Rapsody reminds us to 'stay in the light' 56:07

7 weeks ago56:07

56:07

Grammy award-winning rapper Rapsody shares how optimism allows her to "stay in the light," the power of learning when to say 'no' and how to create purpose driven art. Also, she shares how her community is pivotal in shaping her pride in black culture, creative flow and living in alignment with her calling. We’d love to hear how you're staying optimistic during this time. Leave a voice message at (323) 761-0837 or email us at askoptimistproject@gmail.com . And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to share your own seeds of optimism and wisdom! @optimistprojectpod // The Optimist Project Podcast @yarashahidi // Yara Shahidi @rapsody // Rapsody @chocolatemommyluv // Keri Salter-Shahidi…

T

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi podcast artwork

1
Jaylen Brown on Finding Optimism in Meditation and Discipline 53:53

8 weeks ago53:53

53:53

Jaylen Brown – 2024 NBA Finals MVP, philanthropist and entrepreneur – shares how he maintains his spiritual hygiene through mediation, sound frequencies and stoicism. Plus, he reveals the defining moment that made him choose UC Berkeley before being drafted into the Boston Celtics. We’d love to hear how you're staying optimistic during this time. Leave a voice message at (323) 761-0837 or email us at askoptimistproject@gmail.com . And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to share your own seeds of optimism and wisdom! @optimistprojectpod // The Optimist Project Podcast @yarashahidi // Yara Shahidi @fchwpo // Jaylen Brown @chocolatemommyluv // Keri Salter-Shahidi…

T

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi podcast artwork

1
Prentice Penny on the Optimism in Taking An "L" 46:50

9 weeks ago46:50

46:50

Prentice Penny joins the Optimist Project sharing the important lessons he’s learned from the many “L’s” he’s experienced throughout his life and his writing, directing and producing career. Plus, I invite you to plan a social activity to help build community around you. Bolstering human connection is key to our well-being. Also, our hearts go out to those affected by the devastating wildfires impacting Los Angeles and the surrounding areas. Please know that our thoughts are with you, your loved ones, and your communities. Here are some vital resources: 211 LA: 211la.org The American Red Cross Shelter Locator: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services/find-an-open-shelter.html California Fire Foundation: cafirefoundation.org Mutual Aid LA Network : https://www.mutualaidhub.org Follow us on Instagram at: @optimistprojectpod // The Optimist Project Podcast @yarashahidi // Yara Shaidi @the_a_prentice // Prentice Penny @chocolatemommyluv // Keri Salter-Shahidi…

T

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi podcast artwork

1
Christine Platt on Healing, Giving, and Finding Balance with Afro-minimalism 52:27

10 weeks ago52:27

52:27

Christine Platt. author of The Afro-minimalist's Guide to Living With Less, explains how we can all rethink our living spaces, which helps to declutter our minds. She lets us in on the inspiring twists and turns with her career, and how a spur-of-the-moment decision to write a book changed her life. Also, our hearts go out to those affected by the devastating wildfires impacting Los Angeles and the surrounding areas. Please know that our thoughts are with you, your loved ones, and your communities. Here are some vital resources: 211 LA: 211la.org The American Red Cross Shelter Locator: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services/find-an-open-shelter.html California Fire Foundation: cafirefoundation.org Mutual Aid LA Network : https://www.mutualaidhub.org Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to share your own seeds of optimism and wisdom! @optimistprojectpod // The Optimist Project Podcast @yarashahidi // Yara Shahidi @iamchristineplatt // Christine Platt @chocolatemommyluv // Keri Salter-Shahidi…

T

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi podcast artwork

1
Preparing for Life's Lemons with Courtney B. Vance 54:24

11 weeks ago54:24

54:24

I'm in conversation this week with actor Courtney B. Vance, who shares how life's ups and downs have conditioned him to lean into optimism. He opens up about how grief and a mother's prodding nudged him into therapy, and why he advocates for others to do the work of dealing with themselves. We’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, or ideas. Leave a voice message at (323) 761-0837 or email us at askoptimistproject@gmail.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to share your own seeds of optimism and wisdom! @optimistprojectpod // The Optimist Project Podcast @yarashahidi // Yara Shahidi @courtneybvance // Courtney B Vance…

T

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi podcast artwork

1
Dr. Allycin Powell - Hicks on Preserving our Peace 49:02

12 weeks ago49:02

49:02

Dr. Allycin Powell-Hicks, who comes from a long line of physicians, still had to find her own way in the health arena. These days, she mixes her medical and media backgrounds into her own business. She shares the way she counsels people about how to practice optimism as part of mental health. And she encourages us to try a new way to meditate -- with love and kindness at its center. We’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, or ideas. Leave a voice message at (323) 761-0837 or email us at askoptimistproject@gmail.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to share your own seeds of optimism and wisdom! @optimistprojectpod // The Optimist Project Podcast @yarashahidi // Yara Shahidi @allycinhicks // Dr Ally…

T

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi podcast artwork

1
Ego Nwodim on finding Purpose, Laughter, and Faith 48:57

13 weeks ago48:57

48:57

Ego Nwodim, Saturday Night Live cast member, comedian, and actress, joins me for an inspiring conversation on the power of optimism. Ego opens up about how embracing a positive mindset has transformed her well-being and why it’s a gift to both mind and body. We talk about the pressures of work, how Ego stays grounded in the chaos, and her journey toward setting boundaries while nurturing her desire to help others. Tune in for a candid and uplifting discussion on staying true to yourself in a demanding world—and why optimism is the ultimate tool for self-care. We’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, or ideas. Leave a voice message at (323) 761-0837 or email us at askoptimistproject@gmail.com. And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to share your own seeds of optimism and wisdom! @optimistprojectpod // The Optimist Project Podcast @yarashahidi // Yara Shahidi @chocolatemommyluv // Keri Shahidi @eggyboom // Ego Nwodim…

T

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi podcast artwork

1
Dr. Laurie Santos Explains the Psychology of Optimism 47:34

14 weeks ago47:34

47:34

Dr. Laurie Santos—THE Yale psychology professor who’s revolutionized how we think about happiness helps us tap into the literal science of well-being. As the creator of Yale’s most popular course EVER, The Science of Well-Being, and host of the hit podcast The Happiness Lab, Dr. Santos breaks down the psychology of optimism and introduces us to the “Beautiful Mess Effect.” We also explore why happiness can feel so tricky to achieve—and she shares practical tools to help us rewire our approach to well-being. Want to share your experience or ask a question? Call us at (323) 761-0837 or email askoptimistproject@gmail.com. Looking for more? Dr. Santos offers a free Coursera course, The Science of Well-Being. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to share your own seeds of optimism and wisdom! Dr. Laurie Santos // @lauriesantosofficial The Optimist Project Podcast // @theoptimistprojectpod Yara Shahidi // @yarashahidi Keri Shahidi // @chocolatemommyluv…

T

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi

The Optimist Project with Yara Shahidi podcast artwork

1
Ari Shapiro on Finding Seeds of Optimism in Storytelling 41:43

15 weeks ago41:43

41:43

Ari Shapiro, host of NPR's All Things Considered, has actively rooted his life’s work and his experiences in the belief that optimism isn’t about avoiding struggle, but about our collective ability to navigate struggle with hope, creativity, and curiosity. Whether you listen to Ari’s nightly newscast, are new to his work, or simply believe in the transformative power of thoughtful journalism, this conversation will remind you that we can strive for a deeper appreciation for the human stories that connect us all. We’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, or ideas. Leave a voice message at (323) 761-0837 or email us at askoptimistproject@gmail.com . And don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to share your own seeds of optimism and wisdom! @optimistprojectpod // The Optimist Project Podcast @yarashahidi // Yara Shahidi @arishapiro // Ari Shapiro @chocolatemommyluv // Keri Salter-Shahidi…

Welcome to Player FM!

Player FM is scanning the web for high-quality podcasts for you to enjoy right now. It's the best podcast app and works on Android, iPhone, and the web. Signup to sync subscriptions across devices.

Listen to 500+ topics

Quick Reference Guide

Top Podcasts

The Bill Simmons Podcast

Comedy of the Week

How Did This Get Made?

Doug Loves Movies

TED Talks Daily

NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt

The World This Hour

Daily Boost Motivation and Coaching

This American Life

Sword and Scale

Help/FAQ | Upgrade | Advertise

Arts|Business|Comedy|Economics|Entertainment|News|Politics|Religion

Science|Soccer|Sports|Storytelling|Technology|True Crime

Copyright 2025 | Sitemap | Privacy Policy | Terms of Service | | Copyright

Listen to this show while you explore