Outside Insights
Outside Insights with Chris Burkhard is a podcast for people who want more — more clarity, more purpose, more impact.
Hosted by entrepreneur and lifelong learner Chris Burkhard, the show explores how bold leaders, builders, and thinkers close the gap between the life they have and the life they want. Through honest conversations and powerful stories, we unpack the lessons that shape real lives and careers.
If you're looking for ideas that challenge you, motivate you, and help you grow — you’re in the right place.
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Outside Insights
Peter Samuelson on Finding Happy, Paying It Forward, and Why Empathy Still Wins - Episode 60
This week’s episode of Outside Insights is a special one.
I had the opportunity to sit down with Peter Samuelson, film producer, philanthropist, and now, the author of Finding Happy: A User’s Guide to Your Life with Lessons from Mine. Before our conversation, I had a chance to read an early copy of the book (officially released June 10), and I couldn’t put it down. It’s heartfelt, funny, profound, and filled with stories that encourage you to think a little deeper about your own life, and consider how you might use it to help someone else.
Peter’s journey is truly remarkable. From studying medieval literature to producing blockbuster films to founding seven nonprofits, he’s lived a life driven by curiosity, service, and an unwavering belief that everyone has the power to make a difference. His book, along with our conversation, offers a guide for anyone looking to live with more meaning and impact, no matter your age or background.
In this episode, we talk about:
- What a film producer really does (hint: it’s a lot like being a general)
- The story behind his nonprofit work with foster kids—and the powerful ripple effect of giving them agency
- His unlikely mentorship with General Norman Schwarzkopf
- Why short-term happiness might be chocolate ice cream… but long-term happiness requires service
- How we can heal our divided world with a simple but powerful concept: empathy
Peter expresses it best: “You are the only author of the rest of your life.” His life’s work is a testament to that, and I think you will walk away from this episode as driven—and motivated—as I was.
Whether you’re a young adult, a parent, a mentor, or simply someone seeking happiness, this episode is for you.
Until next time, friends,
Chris
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