The Science of Optimism with Maria Ruberto – A Strengths-
What makes you optimistic? Is it your life experience, mindset, the facts, or the people around you?
In this powerful episode of That Optimism Man podcast, Victor Perton sits down with Maria Ruberto, a vibrant, optimistic, deeply insightful psychologist, resilience coach, and founder of Salutegenics Psychology. Maria and her team recently won the Optimism & Wellbeing Award at the Melbourne Business Network Awards, recognising their trailblazing work in building cultures of Optimism, resilience, and strength-based mental health.
Maria’s expertise lies in Salutogenic Psychology, a revolutionary approach focusing on building mental fitness rather than just treating illness. In this episode, she unpacks the science of Optimism, explaining how it fuels adaptability, creativity, and resilience. She also shares practical strategies anyone can apply to cultivate Optimism and thrive.
Some of Maria’s most powerful insights from this episode:
🧠 “Optimism is the description that we give to our biological state of balance—it stabilises us when things are not going well.”
🚀 “The role of optimism is about engaging in the process of moving forward—whether that is planning, creating, or being curious.”
🌍 “Optimism requires a broad-lens focus. It’s about stepping back, seeing the bigger picture, and understanding the landscape we are working with.”
💡 “Optimism doesn’t mean avoiding struggle—it’s about bringing courage and belief to the table when we are truly challenged.”
🎯 “What makes me optimistic? My ability to choose. Optimism is a choice, and it’s one I make every single day.”
If you’re ready to embrace Optimism as a powerful tool for resilience, leadership, and personal growth, this episode pf "That Optimism Man" Podcast is for you.