The Optimist Way — How Mike Baker Leads with Hope, Purpose, and Grit

What if optimism is the essential secret to true leadership resilience and success? This week, we sit down with Mike Baker — CEO of Heritage Health, author of The Optimist Way, and a leader fueled by hope and purpose — for a deeply inspiring conversation about navigating challenges with optimism.

Mike shares why optimism, grounded firmly in realism, is a leader’s superpower. It enables you to uplift teams, push through tough times, and set a hopeful stage for breakthrough growth. He explains how authentic connection and fostering psychological safety within teams creates the foundation for powerful, sustainable leadership impact.

Hiring is about more than skills — Mike emphasizes the importance of prioritizing heart, attitude, and resilient mindset when building teams. He also shares how balancing leadership with family, creativity, and mindful self-care keeps leaders energized and effective over the long haul.

Drawing from personal stories and the sports arena, Mike illustrates the power of perseverance, showing up, and the mindset that “figure it out” drives real success. He also highlights his work beyond leadership — including music, art, and philanthropy — as sources of inspiration and connection.

Whether you’re leading a nonprofit, business, or family, this episode offers heartening perspectives and practical strategies to help you lead with clarity, courage, and enduring influence.