The Weekly Theme
Each week, we feature a new theme of solutions for those passionate about learning in-depth on how we are building a better world!
OPTIMIST VIEW: An Emissary Conversation – Understanding what matters to our community
By The Optimist Daily Team “Ideas of every kind are constantly galloping toward us, constantly pass through us, constantly trying to get our attention.” - Elizabeth Gilbert, Big Magic In today’s Optimist Emissary conversation we covered the top four stories from the last month, Read More...
4 magnificent mushrooms to boost your immune system
We at the Optimist Daily have long shared our love of mushrooms. They have been used for health purposes for thousands of years, both mentally and physically. Today, we take a look at four varieties of mushrooms which can boost your immune system to keep you healthy this cold and flu Read More...
Avocados to get double shelf life in EU supermarkets thanks to plant-based coating
Each year a third of the food produced - an estimated 1.3 bn tons - is destined for the bin. Particularly, because of their short window of ripeness, supermarket fruits like avocados or bananas are some of the main contributors to this staggering amount of food waste, In an effort to solve this Read More...
Every last pet found a home this holiday season at the Minneapolis animal shelter
Holidays are a popular time for “clear the shelter” events for local animal shelters. Recently, a Minneapolis animal shelter was overjoyed when over 300 residents showed up and waited in line in 30 degree weather to adopt every last one of the shelter’s pets. Dozens of cats, dogs, and Read More...
FUTURE OF FOOD: Finding a fresh food solution with the help of the world’s saltiest plants
“Daily, our eating turns nature into culture, transforming the body of the world into our bodies and minds.” - Michael Pollan What do you picture when you hear the word halophyte? No, it’s not an obscure virus or the name of Elon Musk’s new futuristic car. Halophyte literally means “salt Read More...
This community of women in Kenya have restored a dying coral reef
Three years ago, the coral reef along the Kenyan coastline was almost totally destroyed in some areas. Rising surface sea temperatures had triggered devastating bleaching episodes for the fourth time in less than two decades, and with the whitening of coral came a dwindling of marine life. Read More...
Why you should make a turkey trot part of your holiday tradition
It’s the season of family gathering and endless pumpkin pie, but it’s also the season for turkey trots! Getting outside for a charity walk or run this holiday season benefits a good cause, boosts your health, and helps you connect with your community, so why not sign up? Charity walks have Read More...
How to create an online community free of trolls
This Thanksgiving week we’ve been publishing stories that emphasize the powerful role of community. And we’re not just talking about physical communities! We also recognize the power that online communities can empower people…if done right. Creating an online community is a bit like opening Read More...
How to unlock the power of a strong community
Time and time again, scientists have consistently identified the root of happiness: having rich social bonds and meaningful relationships. When you have a strong community, it helps people to expedite the formation of meaningful relationships that make one happier. If you want to help make your Read More...
Vendors turn streets into community spaces, so why are cities cracking down?
Earlier this month, a woman from Ecuador was handcuffed by police for selling churros in a New York City subway station. Officers confiscated her pushcart—her livelihood—and all its contents. She did not have a permit. But the city has not raised the number of permits since 1983, meaning $200 Read More...