The Texas Optimism Project is a sponsored partnership between Texas Monthly and Frost Bank’s Opt for Optimism initiative. The project aims to explore optimism through stories of extraordinary Texans. Browse our ongoing archive of articles, podcasts, videos, and more.
Amy Brown: Optimism is a Choice
When her mother was diagnosed with cancer for the third time, Amy Brown, Austin native and host of the "Bobby Bones Show," chose joy through grief. Watch the video to see the full animated story.
Watch NowOptimism in matters of the head & heart
Psychologists Art Markman and Bob Duke give suggestions on how to use optimism to nagivate difficult situations where you feel faced with an either-or choice.
Read MoreEpisode 12
At the halfway point of the year, Owen, Andrew and Arely seek out stories that are good news in the making, spotlighting works-in-progress that give us hope.
Read MoreEpisode 9
In this special "lightening round" episode of Good Newscast, hosts Arely, Andrew, and Owen speed through headlines—some good, some not-so-good—seeking optimism in aging, education, and history.
Read MoreDo I wear too many hats?
Psychologists Art Markman and Bob Duke give advice on the implications of either-or decision making when seeking balance in life.
Read MoreEpisode 8
In the eighth Good Newscast, Andrew and Owen discuss their roller derby names while Arely highlights headlines that can inspire optimism in nature, starting with 42,000 pounds of avocados.
Read MoreMy friend is in a rough patch.
The Bull x The Horns addresses how to support loved ones through negative emotions.
Read MoreWalking the Walk
In one of world's most car-centric cities, Raj Mankad sees a new vision of Texas suburbs—suburbs that are more walkable than you might think with stronger, more connected, more vibrant communities.
Read MoreTCU Event: Optimism After College
The Texas Optimism Project and TCU partnered to host Alex Snodgrass, author of The Defined Dish, to talk about optimism, pursuing your health and passion, and life after college.
Read MoreOptimism Inspires Action
Our outlook affects everything from the way we take on challenges to how we approach our finances. So we've identified three financial habits that optimists consistently use.
Read MoreEpisode 6
Owen and Arely host special guest Brenda Garza, who spotlights blood and marrow donor. She also reveals that her involvement in the program comes from her own personal story.
Read MoreTo Hustle or Not To Hustle?
The Bull x The Horns addresses the professional dilemma: Should you ditch your day job to pursue your passion?
Read MoreOptimism in a Blank Canvas
The Texas Optimism Project interviews San Antonio artist Cruz Ortiz about finding his inspiration and purpose through creativity.
Read MoreEpisode 3
The Good Newscast hosts discuss community and homelessness, strangers honoring a Vietnam veteran, and the courage it takes to be the youngest producer in Hollywood.
Read MorePatty Mills on Setbacks
After injury and NBA lockouts, Patty Mills found his calling as an important role player for the San Antonio Spurs, whose core values—leadership, teambuilding, resiliency—reflect those of his indigenous Australian upbringing.
Read MoreStaying Positive
In the latest column of The Bull x The Horns, psychologists Art Markman and Bob Duke advise on what to do when you find yourself surrounded by negativity at work.
Read MoreOn Finding Balance
Rachel Lindsay is an attorney, sports commentator, and former star of The Bachelorette. She joined us to talk about how she's learned to stay true to herself and balance the many facets of her life.
Read MoreAt a Crossroads
In the first installment of The Bull x The Horns, psychologists Art Markman and Bob Duke give advice on what to do when you reach a crossroads in your career.
Read MoreEpisode 1
In the inaugural episode, hosts Owen Egerton, Arely Silva, and Andrew Roush discuss good news and unlikely stories of optimism.
Read MoreThe Tao of Nelson
Willie Nelson's sons, Lukas and Micah, have a unique way of looking at success, failure, and the journey of life—and optimism runs in the family. The Texas Optimism Project interviewed them about the Nelson philosophy.
Read MoreFaces of Optimism
Everyday, Texans help their neighbors, respond to disaster, and build brighter futures. Meet six Texans creating optimism in their communities—with the help of the communities themselves.
Read More30 Days of Optimism
Choosing optimism is personally transformative and highly contagious. Most importantly, it can be fostered through small positive acts.
Sign UpThe Good Collection
Browse an assortment of Texas shops that give back to the communities they serve and the people who make their products.
Read MoreFrom Bee Sting To Business
The Texas Optimism Project interviewed 13-year-old entrepreneur Mikaila Ulmer about her surprising rise to success and her mission to save the bees.
Read MoreA Recipe For Success
Award-winning chef Hugo Ortega talks with the Texas Optimism Project about his climb to success, crediting the support from his loved ones and dedication to his home country, Mexico.
Read MoreThe Choice to Disconnect
Carla Piñeyro Sublett is a leader of the Texas Conference for Women and former CMO of Rackspace. She spent years climbing the corporate ladder—then let go on her own terms.
Read MoreReframing Failure
Chelsea Francis is a photographer, connector, and editor of Pass/Fail, an online publication that pushes back on the shame people hold around failure.
Read MoreInvesting in Recovery
Entrepreneur Wes Hurt opens up to the Texas Optimism Project about confronting addiction, starting over, and using his recovery to fuel a new venture.
Read MoreRunning Toward Joy
Gilbert Tuhabonye’s motto is “run with joy,” but there was a time when he ran in fear, narrowly escaping Hutu and Tutsi genocide. He spoke with the Texas Optimism Project about turning despair into joy and building a new community based on love.
Read MoreEncouraging Words
The Texas Optimism Project paid a visit to the River Walk in San Antonio and asked folks how they stay optimistic. Here’s what they had to say.
Read MoreTexas Monthly Tips
The Texas Optimism Project asked Texas Monthly staff questions about the little ways they stay motivated and positive.
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