In today’s year-end wrap-up episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast (Episode 425), I reflect on 2024 and reveal my guiding word for 2025. Instead of traditional New Year’s resolutions, I choose a single word each year to serve as a focal point and inspiration. I revisit last year’s word—Connection—and discuss what worked well, like strengthening family bonds and growing professionally through clinical supervision and podcast interviews, as well as what didn’t go as planned (like making new friends or achieving full Spanish fluency). These reflections highlight how intentions can guide growth in unexpected ways.
Looking ahead to 2025, my new word is Mend. From addressing health issues to repairing lingering logistical and financial tasks, I want to focus on making what I already have stronger and more sustainable, rather than building from scratch. This year’s theme is about restoring, improving, and taking care of what’s important in my personal life, home, and professional endeavors—including the podcast and Duff the Psych projects.
Join me as I wrap up 2024, share my aspirations for 2025, and encourage you to reflect on your own values, accomplishments, and future direction. Thank you for another year of support and attention. I’ll see you in 2025!
Chapters:
00:00 — Reflecting on Another Year: Gratitude & Long-Term Listeners 01:00 — Beyond Resolutions: Choosing a Guiding Word Each Year 03:00 — Reviewing 2024’s Word “Connection”: Wins, Misses & Insights 05:00 — Personal Highlights: Family Bonding, Board Games & Quality Time 09:00 — Professional Growth: Clinical Supervision, Networking & Interviews 11:00 — Language Ambitions: Progress in Spanish, But Not Fluent Yet 13:00 — Introducing 2025’s Word: “Mend” 14:00 — Repairing & Improving: Health, Home Projects & Finances 16:00 — Podcast & Brand Updates: Refining Instead of Expanding 18:00 — Final Thoughts: Entering 2025 with Intention & Flexibility
About the Podcast
I’m Dr. Robert Duff, a clinical psychologist aiming to make mental health more accessible. On the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I break down complex psychological concepts, share actionable tips, and provide relatable advice to help you live a healthier, more fulfilled life. Whether through solo episodes, interviews, or listener Q&A, my goal is to support your mental well-being without unnecessary jargon.
Connect With Me:
#MentalHealth #SelfHelp #PersonalDevelopment #Mindfulness #NewYear #Goals #Intention #Reflection #Podcast
In this solo Q&A episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast (Episode 424), I tackle two listener questions that address challenging mental health scenarios. The first question delves into the concept of antidepressant-associated chronic irritable dysphoria (ACID), a proposed condition rather than a formally recognized diagnosis, and the potential long-term effects of antidepressants in the context of bipolar disorder. I break down the limited research behind ACID, emphasize the importance of comprehensive care, and acknowledge the frustration that can arise when medications seem to worsen symptoms instead of helping.
The second question focuses on waking up early with irritability and racing thoughts. I provide practical strategies like pre-bed journaling to offload worries, identifying actionable steps for lingering concerns, and creating a calming buffer before sleep. I also discuss the importance of reexamining one’s work environment, considering meaningful changes, and finding fulfillment outside of a stressful job. Throughout the episode, I offer insights on self-advocacy, exploring alternative treatments, and laying the groundwork to regain a sense of control in your daily life.
Chapters:
00:15 — Introduction: Needing More Questions & Holiday Scheduling 02:00 — ACID Explained: A Proposed Condition, Not a Formal Diagnosis 08:00 — Bipolar Disorder & Antidepressants: Complex Interactions and Research Gaps 11:00 — Frustration with Care: Inadequate Guidance and Long-Term Medication Issues 14:00 — Exploring Alternatives: Therapy, Lifestyle Changes, and Treatments Like TMS/Ketamine 21:00 — Morning Irritability: Unpacking Workplace Stress & Uncontrollable Factors 24:00 — Reevaluating Work: Finding Meaning Outside Employment and Considering Changes 27:00 — Pre-Bed Journaling: Offloading Worries, Identifying Action Steps, and Creating Buffers 30:00 — Final Thoughts: Gratitude, Year-End Plans, and Continuing the Journey
About the Podcast
I’m Dr. Robert Duff, a clinical psychologist and the host of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast. I’m here to demystify mental health, break down psychological concepts, and provide actionable advice without unnecessary jargon. Through expert interviews, listener Q&A, and relatable discussions, this podcast aims to help you live a healthier, more fulfilled life.
Connect With Me:
#MentalHealth #Antidepressants #Bipolar #WorkStress #Journaling #SleepHygiene #QandA #SelfHelp #Psychology
In today’s episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I sit down with psychologist, professional speaker, and author Dr. Matt Zakreski to explore the concept of neurodiversity and how to create a more supportive world for neurodivergent individuals. Drawing from both personal and professional experiences, Dr. Matt shares his journey as someone who is gifted and ADHD, and how that shaped his understanding and advocacy for neurodivergent folks.
We discuss what neurodiversity truly means, highlight differences between neurotypical and neurodivergent brains, and break down why it’s crucial to avoid framing neurodivergent individuals as “failed neurotypicals.” Dr. Matt provides practical strategies for understanding executive functioning challenges, improving communication, and fostering more inclusive environments both in schools and in everyday life. Whether you’re neurodivergent yourself, raising a neurodivergent child, or simply looking to become a better ally, this episode is packed with insights and guidance to help you understand, accept, and celebrate neurological differences.
Chapters:
00:15 — Introduction: Send in Your Questions & Introducing Dr. Matt Zakreski 02:00 — Defining Neurodiversity and Neurodivergence 08:00 — The Performance Cliff: When School Outpaces Natural Ability 11:00 — Common Threads: Executive Functioning and Pragmatic Language in Neurodivergence 17:00 — Brain-Based Differences: Sensory Input, Basal Ganglia, and Emotional Intensity 21:00 — Universal Design in Education: Creating Systems That Work for All 24:00 — Shame, Emotionality, and the Reality of ADHD 28:00 — Inattentive vs. Hyperactive: Recognizing Subtle Signs and Misdiagnoses 33:00 — Rethinking Assessment: Moving Beyond DSM Checklists 38:00 — Why Specialists and Relationships Matter in Mental Health Care 41:00 — Making Therapy Work for Kids: Meeting Them Where They Are 43:00 — The Neurodiversity Playbook: Tools, Strategies, and Action Points 48:00 — Intention vs. Impact: Communicating Clearly and Compassionately 52:00 — Practical Tips for Executive Functioning in Daily Life 54:00 — Final Takeaways: Building Community and Embracing Your Unique Brain
About the Podcast
I’m Dr. Robert Duff, a clinical psychologist and the host of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast. My mission is to break down complex mental health topics into approachable, actionable advice. Each episode dives deep into mental health, personal development, and practical strategies for thriving. Whether through expert interviews, audience Q&A, or practical tips, this show is all about making meaningful changes without unnecessary jargon or fluff.
Guest Links:
The Neurodiversity Playbook by Dr. Matt Zakreski: https://www.drmattzakreski.com/the-neurodiversity-playbook
Dr. Matt Zakreski’s Website: https://www.drmattzakreski.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmattzakreski/
Connect With Me:
Website: https://www.duffthepsych.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/duffthepsych/
#Neurodiversity #ADHD #Gifted #TwiceExceptional #Autism #ExecutiveFunction #InclusiveEducation #MentalHealth #SelfHelp #PersonalDevelopment
In today's episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I sit down with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and best-selling author Charles Duhigg to explore the science of effective communication and its profound impact on our personal and professional lives. Charles shares insights from his latest book, Supercommunicators: Unlock the Secret Language of Connection, delving into how skills like empathy, active listening, and understanding different types of conversations can transform the way we connect with others.
Our conversation uncovers the neurological underpinnings of communication, including the concept of neural entrainment and the matching principle. We discuss practical strategies for improving communication in various contexts—from personal relationships to the workplace—and address common pitfalls people face, such as social anxiety and miscommunication. Whether you're looking to enhance your relationships, become a better listener, or navigate tough conversations with ease, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you on your journey.
Chapters:
00:15 — Introduction: Meet Charles Duhigg
03:00 — From Business to Journalism: Charles's Unconventional Path
08:00 — The Power of Storytelling in Communication
11:45 — Understanding the Science Behind Effective Communication
14:00 — The Three Types of Conversations: Practical, Emotional, Social
17:00 — The Matching Principle: Aligning Conversations for Connection
21:00 — Diagnosing and Matching Conversation Types
24:00 — Looping for Understanding: A Technique for Better Listening
28:00 — Common Communication Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
31:00 — Empathy Without Mimicry: Connecting Without Oversharing
34:00 — Real-World Examples: Doctors, Therapists, and Effective Communication
38:00 — Advice for Introverts and Those with Social Anxiety
44:00 — The Power of Asking Questions in Social Settings
47:00 — Overview of 'Supercommunicators' and Its Practical Applications
51:00 — Navigating Tough Conversations: Tips and Strategies
54:00 — A Challenge for Listeners: Reconnecting with Someone
57:30 — Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Charles's Work
Hope you find this enlightening conversation as engaging as I did! Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
About the Podcast
I'm Dr. Robert Duff, a clinical psychologist and the host of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast. My mission is to break down complex mental health topics into relatable, actionable advice. On this podcast, we dive deep into mental health, personal development, and the strategies that help us thrive. Each episode is a mix of expert interviews, practical tips, and answers to listener questions, all aimed at helping you live a healthier, more fulfilled life.
Guest Links:
Connect With Me:
#MentalHealth #EffectiveCommunication #CharlesDuhigg #SelfHelp #Supercommunicators #PersonalDevelopment #ListeningSkills #SocialAnxiety
In this Q&A episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I address two insightful listener questions. The first explores coping with the end of a therapeutic relationship, while the second delves into the physical manifestations of depression and strategies to manage them. This episode offers practical advice and empathetic understanding for those navigating these challenges.
Chapters:
00:15 — Introduction: Returning to Q&A After a series of interviews, I return to answering your questions. Learn how to submit your own and connect with the podcast.
02:05 — Coping with the End of Therapy A listener shares the grief experienced after concluding therapy with a transformative therapist. I discuss why these feelings are normal, the concept of transference, and practical ways to navigate the loss of such a significant relationship.
12:15 — Understanding the Physical Symptoms of Depression Addressing a listener's concern about the often-overlooked physical manifestations of depression, including fatigue, dissociation, and the role of self-injury as a coping mechanism. I explore what these symptoms can look like, why they occur, and practical tools to help reconnect with the body and manage the emotional weight.
24:00 — Final Thoughts and Encouragement Reflecting on the courage it takes to share these challenges and offering guidance on taking small steps toward healing.
About the Podcast I’m Dr. Robert Duff, a clinical psychologist and the host of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast. My mission is to break down complex mental health topics into relatable, actionable advice. Each episode combines expert insights, practical tips, and answers to listener questions, all aimed at helping you live a healthier, more fulfilled life.
Connect With Me:
Mentioned in This Episode:
I hope you find this episode insightful and supportive. If you'd like to send me a question for a future episode, please email me at [email protected].
In today’s episode, I sit down with Dr. Manu Kapur, a professor of learning sciences, to delve into his unique approach to education: productive failure. Dr. Kapur explains how intentionally designing failure within the learning process can lead to deeper understanding and greater knowledge retention. We discuss the science behind productive failure and how it differs from traditional methods, which often focus on direct instruction followed by application. Dr. Kapur shares his experiences from childhood dreams of soccer to academic life at ETH Zurich, showing how personal failures have shaped his life and work.
Together, we explore key concepts like the “four A’s” of productive failure: Activation, Awareness, Affect, and Assembly. This method encourages learners to first explore problems in a safe space, where failure is expected, to prepare them for deeper learning through expert guidance afterward. Dr. Kapur’s insights reveal how frustration and negative emotions, when managed safely, can enhance memory and motivation, making failure a powerful tool in the learning process.
In this episode, Dr. Kapur provides real-world examples, from learning statistical concepts in the classroom to developing retrieval paths in social interactions. We also discuss how productive failure can be applied beyond the classroom to daily life and parenting, helping adults model and reinforce the benefits of persistence and exploration for children.
Chapters:
00:15 — Introduction: Meet Dr. Manu Kapur and the Concept of Productive Failure 05:30 — The Science Behind Learning Through Failure 12:00 — The “Four A’s” of Productive Failure: Activation, Awareness, Affect, and Assembly 18:30 — Real-Life Examples: Productive Failure in the Classroom 24:00 — The Role of Emotions in Memory and Learning 30:05 — Applying Productive Failure in Daily Life 36:25 — Parenting and Productive Failure: Teaching Kids Resilience 41:50 — Productive Failure’s Global Applications and Cultural Reflections 47:05 — Key Takeaways and Where to Find More from Dr. Kapur
About the Podcast I’m Dr. Robert Duff, and on this podcast, we dive deep into mental health and personal growth, bringing expert insights and practical advice to help you navigate life’s challenges. Join us for conversations that break down complex concepts into actionable steps.
Guest Links:
Connect With Me:
#ProductiveFailure #Learning #Education #GrowthMindset #MentalHealth
In today’s episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I’m thrilled to sit down with marketing guru and best-selling author Seth Godin. Seth shares his near-death experience off the coast of San Clemente—a moment that became a powerful reminder of his mission to teach and contribute. We explore his philosophy of “strategy as a philosophy of becoming” and discuss practical ways to craft personal life strategies that align with our values, whether in creativity, mental resilience, or personal growth.
In our conversation, Seth and I cover a range of ideas, from recognizing societal systems that impact our lives to overcoming societal pressures and finding meaning in service to others. Seth’s “lifeguard analogy” emphasizes the importance of focusing on helping others, and his insights are full of actionable takeaways for anyone looking to lead a more purpose-driven life.
Tune in for an episode packed with practical strategies and reflections that can help you shape a life you’re proud of.
Topics Covered:
Timestamps:
00:15 — Introduction: Meet Seth Godin 02:05 — Breaking Down Writer’s Block and Building Creative Confidence 06:00 — Learning Through the Lifeguard Analogy: How to Start Contributing Now 12:15 — Recognizing the Systems Shaping Our Lives 18:30 — Personal Strategy and Mental Health: How They Intersect 24:00 — The Power of Daily Creative Habits 30:40 — Real-Life Applications: Who's It For, What's It For? 36:25 — Avoiding the Trap of Playing Games We’re Meant to Lose 41:50 — How Strategy Can Help Us Cope with Modern Mental Health Challenges 47:05 — Building Authentic Networks and Finding Community
About the Podcast I’m Dr. Robert Duff, a clinical psychologist dedicated to breaking down complex mental health topics into relatable, actionable advice. On the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, we dive deep into mental health, personal development, and practical strategies to help you thrive. Each episode features expert interviews, useful tips, and answers to listener questions, all to support your journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Guest Links:
Connect With Me:
In this episode, I sit down with Anna Runkle, better known as the Crappy Childhood Fairy, to explore her journey of healing from childhood PTSD and the unique methods she has developed to help others do the same. Anna has helped hundreds of thousands of people worldwide re-regulate their nervous systems and recover from deep emotional wounds using simple but powerful techniques. We dive deep into what childhood PTSD really is, how it differs from complex PTSD, and what doctors often get wrong about trauma. Anna also shares her personal story of growing up in a chaotic commune, the lasting effects of emotional neglect and abandonment, and the practical steps she used to reclaim her life and happiness.
Whether you're personally affected by trauma or seeking to support someone who is, Anna’s wisdom, tools, and personal insights provide valuable takeaways for anyone on a healing journey.
Links:Order Anna's book Re-Regulated here: https://bit.ly/44Eo1ma
Get Instant Access to Anna's free online course, The Daily Practice here:http://bit.ly/Cf CF_DailyPractice
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/CrappyChildhoodFairy
Website: https://crappychildhoodfairy.com
CCF Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crappychildhoodfairy/
0:00 – Introduction
2:30 – Anna’s Early Life and Growing Up in a Commune
7:15 – Understanding Childhood PTSD vs. Complex PTSD
12:45 – Coping Mechanisms and the Breaking Point
16:30 – The Effects of Gaslighting and Emotional Neglect
21:00 – The Role of Attachment Wounds and Limerence
27:30 – Trauma Healing and Nervous System Regulation
33:00 – The Power of Simple Healing Techniques
38:45 – Generational Trauma and Breaking the Cycle
43:00 – The Myth of ‘What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Stronger’
48:15 – Finding True Healing and Becoming Your Full Self
53:00 – Practical Takeaways and Final Thoughts
Support the Podcast:
In this laid-back check-in episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I take you through a series of updates and random musings. I discuss the current state of the podcast, why I decided to fire my ad agency, and the recent revival of interviews. I also share some personal projects, from working on my bipolar disorder book to collaborating with my kids on a creative game inspired by Minecraft. Throughout, I reflect on AI innovations, the challenges of balancing podcasting with life, and ways I've been keeping active, like my new rucking routine. This episode is perfect for catching up on everything happening in my world, from professional changes to hobbies and everything in between.
Links:
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
01:00 Podcast Updates
02:00 Fired Ad Agency
05:00 Interview Segment Revival
08:00 Changes in Podcast Style
09:00 Decline in Podcast Numbers and Stepping Away from Ads
11:00 Writing Update - Bipolar Book
13:00 AI Adventures - ChatGPT Voice Mode Demo
18:00 AI Applications - Notebook LM
21:00 Personal Favorites - POV Cooking Channels
22:00 Nostalgia Gaming - Pokémon Insurgence
23:00 Podcast Recommendation - Tim Ferriss Interview with Elizabeth Gilbert
24:00 Work and Mentorship Updates
26:00 Fitness Journey - Rucking
27:00 Creative Projects with Kids
28:00 Reflections on Current Events and Mental Health
29:00 Wrap-up
In today’s episode, I had the absolute honor of sitting down with Dr. David Burns, a true legend in the field of mental health. Dr. Burns is not only a pioneer of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but he’s also the best-selling author of Feeling Good and Feeling Great, which have collectively sold millions of copies worldwide. Spending so much time with him was a real treat, as he shared his incredible insights into mental health, his innovative T.E.A.M. Therapy method, and his groundbreaking Feeling Great App.
We talked about how his methods are helping people achieve rapid and lasting recovery from depression, anxiety, and other difficult emotions, sometimes in just one session. Dr. Burns also gave us a behind-the-scenes look at how his AI-driven app is transforming mental health treatment, making it accessible and effective for people everywhere.
This conversation was truly fascinating, and I’m sure you’ll find a ton of value in it. Whether you’re familiar with Dr. Burns’ work or hearing about him for the first time, you’ll come away with practical advice and a deeper understanding of how to break free from the emotional patterns holding you back.
In this episode, we cover:Links:
https://www.youtube.com/@UCEgz2rq7N1xCHMCcjdyU5zg
https://feelinggood.com/books/
Reach out!
Breaking Boundaries: Dr. Paul Rivera on Redefining Success and Masculinity
In this episode, Dr. Paul Rivera, a first-generation Latino American, shares his inspiring journey navigating cultural expectations and his pursuit of a fulfilling life. From his early challenges growing up in a Latino neighborhood in Los Angeles to his prestigious roles as a professor and diplomat, Dr. Rivera discusses the importance of discovering one's unique superpower, embracing vulnerability as a strength, and redefining traditional notions of masculinity.
Together with his wife, Dr. Rivera co-founded BE ACT Change, an organization focused on aligning individuals and organizations with their purpose. He also discusses their book, 'Creating Your Limitless Life,' which provides insights into achieving authentic success beyond material trappings. Tune in for valuable lessons on mental health, family dynamics, and sustainable change.
https://www.instagram.com/be.act.change https://www.amazon.com/CREATING-YOUR-LIMITLESS-LIFE-Terms/dp/B0CHL3RW4L
Sponsored by 23andMe, promoting proactive steps for health through genetic screening and personalized plans. http://23andme.com/duff
00:00 Introduction: Dreams and Expectations 00:25 Meet Dr. Paul Rivera: A Journey of Defying Expectations 01:28 Navigating Cultural Expectations and Personal Aspirations 02:22 Interview with Dr. Paul Rivera: Early Life and Influences 03:12 Growing Up Latino in Los Angeles 06:33 Balancing Work, Culture, and Personal Identity 18:30 Family Dynamics and Personal Growth 23:56 Challenging Machismo and Embracing Vulnerability 29:50 The Power of Vulnerability 30:38 Creating Safe Spaces at Home 32:11 Community Outreach and Education 33:47 Recognizing and Nurturing Potential 35:07 Discovering Your Superpower 37:03 Empowering Women in Leadership 39:04 Building Trust and Overcoming Barriers 40:21 The Journey to Self-Discovery 42:36 From Diplomacy to Entrepreneurship 43:32 The Mission of BeActChange 51:21 Advice for Feeling Stuck 56:30 Final Thoughts and Resources
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