Episode Description:

This week, Arielle and Karissa dive into the science of little treats—those small, joyful moments that can regulate stress, boost dopamine, and support mental health. They also spotlight a record-breaking $50M donation launching a global endometriosis research hub and reflect on the urgent need for trans rights and dignity during Pride Month. From strawberry matcha lattes to structural change, it’s a hopeful, honest conversation about caring for ourselves and creating a better world.

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Transcript:

Theme music

Karissa:

Hello and welcome to The Optimist Daily’s Weekly Round-up. I’m Karissa.

Arielle:

And I’m Arielle, and we’re working hard to put solutions in view and optimism in movement.

Karissa:

Welcome back, everyone. We’re here again to share the solutions from the Optimist Daily this week. How are you doing over in Amsterdam, Arielle?

Arielle:

I’m… I’m doing all right. It’s been kind of a hectic week.

Karissa:

Definitely, yeah. I feel the same way on so many levels. It’s been hectic in a good way because there’s been a lot of celebrations this week. There’ve been some birthdays—including my cat’s.

Arielle:

Aww!

Karissa:

But at the same time, it’s been kind of a heavy week in the news cycle.

Arielle:

Yeah, it just seems like the whole world is in a bit of a turbulent time, to put it lightly. I agree with you. There’s also a lot of celebratory things going on—I mean, it’s summer, and kids are either already done with school or just finishing up, so that’s fun for them. Father’s Day is coming up this weekend, actually, so that’s nice. But there’s just been negative things happening as well. On that note, do you have an “I’m an optimist, but…”?

Karissa:

I am an optimist, but I’m pretty pessimistic about the news cycle—particularly immigration in the United States. It’s such a huge issue right now, and with ICE enforcement going on around the country, especially in LA, there’s a lot of protests and just a lot of stuff happening down there. That’s just kind of what’s been on my mind this week. But at the end of the day, there are solutions; there’s going to be a way forward through all these issues.

Arielle:

Yeah. Good to keep that positive mindset even through all this turmoil.

Karissa:

Totally.

Arielle:

On the same thread of celebrations…

I’m an optimist, but…

It’s Pride Month, which is a time to honor queer joy and resistance and visibility and all of that. But I’ll be honest, this year it’s a bit harder to feel celebratory. Just like what you were saying, Karissa, it feels a bit double—especially when trans rights are under such relentless attack, it seems.

Karissa:

Mm-hmm. Yeah.

Arielle:

Yeah. In the U.S., we’re witnessing the most sweeping purge of transgender personnel in modern military history. It’s disturbing, considering that these are people who have laid down their lives and are fighting for the U.S.—and under this new executive order, service members are flagged for gender dysphoria and have to resign or face discharge just for existing as they are.

At the same time, the Department of Education has rebranded June as “Title IX Month” while refusing to acknowledge Pride at all, which I take huge issue with.

Karissa:

Right.

Arielle:

For those who maybe don’t know, Title IX is legislation meant to protect against sex-based discrimination—and it’s now being turned into a weapon to exclude trans people from public life.

Karissa:

Yes.

Arielle:

So… I don’t know. There’s just been so much in the news about trans people facing harassment. Did you hear about Tyler Flanagan, who’s a trans woman in Tennessee? She was brutally attacked at a Public Storage unit.

Karissa:

Oh, I didn’t hear about that one, but I mean—that is just so unfortunate. And just so sad.

Arielle:

And then there’s—I think it’s Luca Strobel, who’s a young trans guy, 25 years old, I believe. He was trying to use the restroom at a bar in South Carolina, and there were no stalls in the men’s room. So then he entered the women’s, accompanied by a female friend and with permission from the bar itself.

Karissa:

Yeah.

Arielle:

But still, an employee burst in and started screaming, you know, “There’s a man in the bathroom,” and then he ended up being detained by police. And it just seemed a bit ridiculous to me—because isn’t this what anti-trans lawmakers want? To make everyone use the bathroom for the sex they were assigned at birth?

Karissa:

Hmm, yeah.

Arielle:

I think what I find the most frustrating is that these policies are often framed as protecting women. And as a woman myself who’s been harassed many times—and Karissa, I’m sure you have your own experiences with this to draw on—I have never been harassed by a trans person.

Karissa:

Mm-hmm. Yeah, I have never been harassed by someone who was trans. And—I mean, why are we putting so much focus onto making their lives so much more difficult when we don’t need to do that?

Arielle:

So I just really wonder whose safety we’re actually talking about… whose rights we’re actually protecting.

Yeah. So, I’m still an optimist. I believe in the power of peaceful protest.

Karissa:

Yes.

Arielle:

And the long journey toward justice. But I’m also tired of seeing so many different types of marginalized people dehumanized and scapegoated.

And yeah… Pride Month isn’t a marketing campaign or something—it’s really just a fight for dignity and safety and humanity. And this year, that fight feels especially urgent.

Karissa:

Absolutely. As much as we are a positive news source, we exist in this sea of negative news, and it’s important to stay informed. But there are solutions. There are people trying to make the world a better place. And we have some good ones to share today, I think.

Arielle:

Yes, we do. Do you mind if I jump into mine?

Karissa:

Yeah. What do you have for the world today?

Arielle:

OK, so the article I chose this week is about something that doesn’t usually make headlines, but I think it should. And the title is Record-breaking donation launches global hub for endometriosis research in Sydney.

Karissa:

Definitely amazing news. I guess before we continue, maybe we should explain exactly what endometriosis is for those who aren’t really familiar.

Arielle:

Absolutely. Endometriosis is a chronic, often painful condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the womb. This rogue tissue really, really doesn’t belong there. It causes inflammation, scarring, pain during menstruation or sex—and in many cases, it can lead to infertility.

Karissa:

Yeah. And it affects millions of womb-bearing people—I mean, like over 200 million globally—yet most people go years without a diagnosis.

My mom actually suffers from endometriosis, and the main symptom I really remember is that her period cramps every month were just horrible. She was just kind of, like, bedridden for days.

Arielle:

Oh no.

Karissa:

But they were just like, “If you have your period, then you probably get really bad cramps. That’s just totally normal.” It was a long process of getting a diagnosis. But yeah, I mean—it’s horrible.

Arielle:

It’s so strange to me that on average it takes seven years just to get a diagnosis. Crazy. That’s such a long time to live with that kind of pain and uncertainty.

Which is why this next story out of Sydney is such a big deal. The University of New South Wales just received a $50 million donation—that’s Australian dollars, so about 32 million U.S. dollars.

Karissa:

Mm-hmm.

Arielle:

And this donation will create what will be the world’s largest endometriosis research institute. It’s called the Ainsworth Endometriosis Research Institute—aptly named!—or AERI for short. And it’s designed to tackle this disease head-on with research, faster diagnostics, and more personalized treatments.

Karissa:

Well, that is just incredible, especially for this condition that’s really historically flown so far under the radar.

And I’ve heard so many stories too from people online saying they’ve also taken such a long time to be diagnosed or weren’t listened to about what they think they may have. So this sounds like a great development.

Arielle:

Not only is this the largest donation for endometriosis research, it’s also the biggest-ever gift for women’s health in Australian history.

Karissa:

Wow, that’s just amazing. What will this institute actually do differently?

Arielle:

Well, for starters, AERI is moving away from one-size-fits-all medicine. Jason Abbott, a longtime expert in obstetrics and gynecology, is leading the charge.

His goal is to replace the patchwork of treatment opinions out there with evidence-based, individualized care that’s actually grounded in biology.

Karissa:

I mean, that just sounds like what we should be doing across the board in medicine—but that’s amazing.

Arielle:

Agreed. And AERI is going global with it. They’re planning collaborations with researchers and clinicians in places like Canada, India, Denmark, and the U.S. So this isn’t just a local win—it’s a big step forward for how endometriosis is understood and treated worldwide.

Karissa:

Well, it’s kind of strange to think a condition that’s so common and disruptive hasn’t had more consistent investment or attention until now.

Arielle:

Totally. Especially when you consider the broader costs—not just personal, but economic.

Endometriosis isn’t just a medical issue. It affects people’s ability to work—like you were saying, with your mom being bedridden—to access care, to plan families, and all that kind of stuff. The Endometriosis Coalition estimates it costs the Australian economy alone around $9.7 billion every year.

Karissa:

Wow, that’s a huge number to…

Arielle:

…to lose!

Karissa:

…and it’s something that could be prevented.

Arielle:

Jessica Taylor, who chairs the coalition, said it really well: if we want a cure, we have to understand the disease.

Karissa:

Yes.

Arielle:

This institute is finally backing that call with the kind of funding and structure it deserves.

Karissa:

So it sounds like funding is rolling out over the next decade. What are the first steps?

Arielle:

The research will start in the lab—basic science, genetics, diagnostics—and then move into clinical applications.

It’ll take time, but even other scientists in the field are saying this is a real leap forward, especially in how we deliver mRNA-based therapies directly into immune cells.

Karissa:

OK. Well, it sounds like a foundation for long-term impact—not just another one-off project.

Arielle:

Exactly. And it’s a clear sign that the tide is finally turning when it comes to prioritizing women’s health.

Endometriosis has been misunderstood, minimized, and neglected for decades.

This initiative says: no more of that!

Karissa:

At least in Australia (laughs).

Arielle:

(laughs) Yeah. Well—they’re gonna make it global!

Karissa:

Exactly. I’m hoping that globally it’ll be adopted and inspires more global action as well—because investing in women’s health benefits everyone.

Arielle:

Yes, and this is the kind of action that is really about protecting and uplifting women. More of this!

Karissa:

Absolutely. Women’s health is so important. I mean, everyone’s health is important, but… historically, women have been…

Arielle:

Definitely underserved or not taken seriously.

Karissa:

Yeah, that’s a huge thing—especially with endometriosis. They’re just not listened to. I think this is great.

Arielle:

Yes, me too.

But uh… I’ve been very heavy this episode. So Karissa, do you have something that will lighten the mood a little bit?

Karissa:

Well, I do! I have more of a lifestyle-oriented solution: Why little treats matter: the science-backed benefits of small daily joys.

Arielle, are there any things—small things, I guess—that you like to do for yourself that just really make you feel great?

Arielle:

Yeah. As I mention almost every podcast, my dog takes me out… or I take her out, but she makes me do it (laughs).

And that—even when I feel really busy—is such a small joy.

Karissa:

Yeah.

Arielle:

Or if I’m working on something especially taxing, I’ll just tell myself, “At the end of this, treat yourself to a little snack.”

Karissa:

Mm-hmm.

Arielle:

If I don’t have chocolate in the house, then there’s a bakery down the street, so I’ll grab myself a croissant or something. So yeah—I am very food motivated (laughs).

Karissa:

Yeah (laughs), I feel that. I definitely love a sweet treat in particular. And lately, I’ve really been into making my own iced strawberry matcha lattes.

Arielle:

Ah, that sounds so good!

Karissa:

That’s one of my favorite treats right now.

There’s actually some real science behind why these little treats help—because these everyday pick-me-ups aren’t just mood boosters. Experts say they can actually help regulate stress, support your nervous system, and build emotional resilience over time.

In other words, those tiny joys you reach for might be doing more for you than you think…

Arielle:

OK, well, I’m already sold. What is the science behind these little treats being so great for us?

Karissa:

According to Dr. Courtney Tracy—AKA The Truth Doctor on TikTok—the positive effects of little treats are rooted in the nervous system.

Even brief moments of comfort or pleasure can interrupt stress responses and bring the body into a more regulated state.

Arielle:

That sounds like a great dose of dopamine, right?

Karissa:

Yeah, that’s exactly what’s going on in the brain.

Dopamine is that feel-good neurotransmitter that spikes when we experience something enjoyable. And you can go on and continue to treat yourself—without the guilt—because it’s good for you!

Arielle:

On that note, is there a boundary? How much is too much?

Karissa:

Yeah. Food-based treats tend to get a bad rap, but registered dietitian Amy Shapiro says that moderate indulgence is actually a good thing.

She explains that enjoying something indulgent in moderation can help reduce feelings of restriction.

When we allow ourselves to enjoy what we love without guilt, we’re less likely to binge or overeat later.

Basically, if your treat choice is a midweek cookie, a fancy iced latte, or chips—go for it!

Because the goal is not perfection—it’s presence.

Arielle:

All right. I can get behind that.

Karissa:

Absolutely.

But not all treats have to be edible. I know that tends to be the first thing we think of—but Arielle, have you ever heard of an active treat?

Arielle:

Um… not—not like that. What is an active treat?

Karissa:

It could mean just a walk around the block, a spontaneous solo dance party, or sitting outside with your morning tea.

For me—especially now that it’s summer—I like to spend my work lunch break taking a quick dip in the pool in the backyard and maybe having a little tan session.

Perks of working from home! And also having really hot summers where I live.

Arielle:

Yeah. And also a pool! (laughs)

Karissa:

Yeah. And a pool, too! (laughs)

Arielle:

Well, I guess an active treat I enjoy doing is going to the sauna.

Karissa:

Yeah, that’s a great one.

Arielle:

I mean, it feels like more of a big treat because I have to schedule it, and I have to, like, get to the sauna—which is only a 20-minute bike ride away from me—

Karissa:

Right.

Arielle:

—but still, it requires planning. But it’s something I really like, and it really does feel like a treat when I do it.

Karissa:

I mean, movement, sweating it out, fresh air… those are powerful—as powerful as a chocolate truffle (laughs).

So, Amy Shapiro again says that physical activity like walking adds movement, fresh air, and often a change of scenery. That can increase endorphins, reduce cortisol, and improve insulin sensitivity.

So many great things from treating yourself to an active treat.

And even better—it helps break the cycle of autopilot and offers a moment of mindfulness.

Arielle:

Well, these are all great examples of little treats.

And it sounds like a little treat can really just be anything that makes your day even a tiny bit better.

Karissa:

Yeah. And that’s just the beauty of it all.

Because a little treat might be grabbing a weekly coffee from your favorite café or investing in a plush robe to upgrade your mornings—but the magic lies in the joy it brings.

The key is intention. Choosing something that brings genuine joy or a sense of pause.

When you give yourself that small moment of care, it supports emotional and even hormonal health.

And the mental health benefits go deep beyond momentary pleasure.

Little treats can become tools for long-term healing.

So for people recovering from burnout, trauma, or chronic stress, Dr. Tracy says that tiny joys can reconnect us to the present moment.

Consistent, intentional access to small moments of relief can help rebuild a sense of internal stability, she explains.

And at the same time, these small indulgences also provide a quiet rebellion in a culture obsessed with hustle and restraint—and maybe bad news, too.

So yeah, I mean… pleasure is not frivolous. It’s a need.

Arielle:

Again, here I am with my boundaries… is it possible to treat ourselves too much?

Karissa:

With everything, of course—it’s all about balance.

The key is to pay attention to what genuinely brings you joy, and don’t rely on treats as your only coping mechanism.

A mix of nutritious eating, physical activity, and restful treats is ideal.

But from boosting dopamine to soothing stress, little treats aren’t just fun—they’re foundational.

So whether it’s a salty snack or a stretch in the sun, the act of pausing to care for yourself—even just briefly—builds resilience, joy, and emotional well-being.

Arielle:

I love these little treats. They sound like such a big solution, actually, to making a better life for ourselves.

So, I guess my message to the listeners after hearing your solution, Karissa, is: don’t be afraid to enjoy your favorite latte or just put your feet up and watch the clouds.

Karissa:

Yeah, absolutely. Your nervous system and your future self will definitely thank you.

Arielle:

Yeah, it’s good to have that guilt-free pleasure—because it’s important to also realize that we can’t really be of any use or any help to anyone if we’re completely depleted.

Karissa:

It all starts with ourselves.

Arielle:

Well, thank you again, Karissa, for sharing the solution.

We do have so many other great solutions on the Optimist Daily from this week. And they include…

Karissa:

Free school meals expanded to 500,000 more children under new UK government policy, A surprising look at how Father’s Day came to be, Spain leads on LGBTQ+ workplace rights, and Is sparkling water good for you? What to know about the bubbly drink trend.

What else do we have this week?

Arielle:

We also have 10 surprisingly doable ways to make this your family’s best summer ever,

Urban mining: how Europe is turning e-waste and concrete into circular gold,

Kyrgyzstan builds 800,000-hectare ecological corridor to protect mountain biodiversity,

and Why you wake up hungry (or not) and what your body is trying to tell you.

Alright, well, that’s a wrap from us this week!

We hope that you enjoyed our roundup of solutions.

If you’re interested in starting your days off on the right foot, then please consider subscribing to our free daily newsletter—

that way, you’ll get all of our solutions straight to your inbox.

Karissa:

You can follow us on all social media channels at @OptimistDaily—except on X, where we’re known as @Odetooptimism.

Arielle:

We’re a small team of optimists, and we work really hard to bring you all the positive news we can find these days.

And it’s not a particularly easy job, considering what’s going on in the world.

So if you want to support us, that would be amazing!

There’s a link in the description where you can find out how you can do that.

But otherwise, just telling your friends about us, sharing our podcast with a loved one, or leaving a review—a positive review—would be a huge help for us.

Karissa:

Well, as always, we’ll be back next week with more solutions.

Arielle:

For all the fathers and father figures out there—Happy Father’s Day!

I hope your celebration this weekend is amazing.

And for those of you who either have a strained relationship with your dad or they’re no longer with us, we wish you a lot of love and strength.

Karissa:

Well, that’s it for now. Bye!

Arielle:

Bye!