Episode Summary: The Most Important Word is Yes

Podcast: Help Wanted
Hosts: Jason Feifer (Entrepreneur Editor-in-Chief), Nicole Lapin (Money Expert)
Release Date: October 9, 2025

Overview

In this thought-provoking episode of Help Wanted, Jason Feifer shares a personal perspective shift on the power of saying "yes" versus "no." Drawing inspiration from writer Dave Eggers, Jason explores how embracing new opportunities—even those that feel uncomfortable or uncertain—can fuel personal and professional growth. The episode challenges listeners to reflect on their own tendencies to play it safe and invites them to reframe effort and participation as valuable accomplishments in and of themselves.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

The Culture of "No" vs the Potential of "Yes"

• Jason admits to growing up defining himself by saying no:
  “I grew up saying no. Maybe you relate to this. I defined myself by what I wouldn’t do and who I wouldn’t hang out with. Those kids? Screw them. That music? Hate it. That party? Never.” (03:13)
• Context of the 'sellout' culture of the 1990s and 2000s, where authenticity was policed, and saying yes to mainstream success was seen as a betrayal.
• Jason describes how reading Dave Eggers’ essay challenged this mindset:
  “I thought, my life will not be defined by the things I say no to. It’ll be defined by what I try.” (05:44)

Dave Eggers’ Perspective on Saying Yes

• Eggers’ notable quote (read aloud by Jason):
  “...I really like saying yes. I like new things, projects, plans, getting people together and doing something, trying something, even when it’s corny or stupid. I am not good at saying no, and I do not get along with people who say no... When you die, and it really could be this afternoon, you will not be happy about having said no. You will be kicking your ass about all the no’s.” (04:14)
• The essay castigates a “no” mentality and celebrates open-minded, adventurous living—ultimately arguing that effort and new experiences shape a meaningful life.

Redefining Accomplishment: Effort Matters

• Jason challenges the notion that only achievements count:
  “But these things aren't fully controllable. Achievements are hard and slow. Goals may never be reached. These measurements slow our sense of personal growth. So here's an idea. What if saying yes is treated as an accomplishment by itself?” (06:05)
• Instead, effort—even participation—should be celebrated, much like a "participation trophy." He critiques the common backlash against rewarding effort, calling it “stupid.” (06:36)

Overcoming Fear and Rewarding Curiosity

• Jason relates this challenge to his kids:
  “I have two young boys... they frequently refuse to try new activities because they're convinced they won't like them. I would love to see them try anyway. Effort will open their worlds.” (06:44)
• Admits adults behave the same, often saying no out of habit or fear.
• Encourages listeners to list five things they've said yes to this year, regardless of outcome, and treat those as accomplishments. (07:20)

The Role of "No" and the Value of Selectivity

• Jason nuances the message: “Not everything is a yes. And that's okay. You should not say yes to everything. That's just unrealistic. You should say no to many things, just like I do every day.” (07:59)
• Key distinction: Saying no frees you to say yes to what matters most, but you must use that freedom intentionally.

The Urgency of Now

• Eggers’ wisdom on curiosity and seizing the moment:
  “I say yes because I am curious. I want to see things.” (08:27)
• Jason’s personal anecdote: Overcoming reluctance to drive three hours to see Eggers speak, leading to a lasting memory:
  “You only make memories by saying yes.” (09:14)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Jason Feifer:

  • “My life will not be defined by the things I say no to. It’ll be defined by what I try.” (05:44)
  • “When we celebrate yes, we incentivize saying yes. We create a positive feedback loop for ourselves.” (07:33)

• Dave Eggers (read by Jason):

  • “No is for wimps. No is for pussies. No is to live small and embittered, cherishing the opportunities you missed because they might have sent the wrong message.” (04:57)
  • “What matters is that you do good work. What matters is that you produce things that are true and will stand.” (05:12)
  • “I say yes because I am curious. I want to see things.” (08:27)

Timestamps for Important Segments

• 03:13 — Jason shares his childhood mindset of saying no
• 04:14 — Dave Eggers’ perspective on saying yes, read aloud
• 06:05 — Jason reframes accomplishment as effort, not just achievement
• 06:44 — Jason discusses encouraging his kids (and adults) to try new things
• 07:20 — Exercise: List five things you said yes to this year
• 07:59 — The necessity and selectivity of saying no
• 08:27 — Eggers’ reflection on curiosity and yes
• 09:14 — Jason’s memory of meeting Eggers and the power of yes

Conclusion

Jason encourages listeners to:

• Treat effort and the act of saying yes as accomplishments
• Be intentional in deciding what to say yes and no to
• Recognize that memories and personal growth are built on openness and curiosity

This episode provides both practical advice and philosophical inspiration for anyone seeking to break out of their comfort zone and live a more engaged, rewarding life—at work and beyond.