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:

• Website: duffthepsych.com
• Instagram: @duffthepsych
• YouTube: youtube.com/duffthepsych

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Book: Skin Game: A Memoir by Caroline Kettlewell. This memoir provides a vivid account of living with and overcoming self-injury. Available on Amazon:

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:

• Dr. Kapur’s Book: Productive Failure: Unlocking the Science of Failure for Deep Learning and Growth
• Website: ProductiveFailure.com
• Follow Dr. Kapur on LinkedIn,

Connect With Me:

• Website: http://duffthepsych.com
• Instagram: http://instagram.com/duffthepsych
• YouTube: http://youtube.com/duffthepsych

#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:

• Breaking Down Writer’s Block and Building Creative Confidence
• The Lifeguard Analogy: Why Starting with Generosity Can Change Your Life
• Recognizing the Systems That Influence Our Daily Lives
• How Strategy and Mental Health Intersect in Our Modern World
• Building Powerful Daily Creative Habits
• Avoiding the Trap of Playing Games We’re Meant to Lose
• Developing Authentic Networks and Finding Your Community

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:

• Seth’s Latest Book: This is Strategy
• Seth Godin’s Blog: Seth's Blog
• Seth’s Podcast: Akimbo Podcast

Connect With Me:

• Website: duffthepsych.com
• Instagram: @duffthepsych
• YouTube: Dr. Duff’s Channel

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.

• 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

  • Introduction to Anna Runkle, aka the Crappy Childhood Fairy, and her mission to help people heal from childhood PTSD.
  • Overview of the topics to be covered: childhood trauma, PTSD, healing methods, and Anna’s personal story.

• 2:30 – Anna’s Early Life and Growing Up in a Commune

  • Anna describes her chaotic upbringing in a Berkeley commune, surrounded by addiction, neglect, and violence.
  • The impact of family addiction and how it shaped her view of the world.

• 7:15 – Understanding Childhood PTSD vs. Complex PTSD

  • Anna explains the difference between childhood PTSD and complex PTSD, and why she uses a more accessible term for the general public.
  • How childhood trauma can stay latent and resurface in adulthood after new traumatic events.

• 12:45 – Coping Mechanisms and the Breaking Point

  • Anna shares how being the "good girl" helped her survive but eventually led to deep depression.
  • Her experience of hitting rock bottom and the overwhelming effects of what she calls a "trauma storm."

• 16:30 – The Effects of Gaslighting and Emotional Neglect

  • Anna discusses the emotional invalidation she faced growing up and the gaslighting that made her doubt her own reality.
  • The lasting impact of growing up in an environment of denial.

• 21:00 – The Role of Attachment Wounds and Limerence

  • How unresolved emotional neglect led to dysfunctional relationships in Anna’s life, especially through a phenomenon called "limerence"—an obsessive, addictive form of love.
  • The cycle of seeking validation in unhealthy ways due to an insecure attachment style.

• 27:30 – Trauma Healing and Nervous System Regulation

  • Anna explains the concept of nervous system dysregulation and how trauma impacts not only emotions but also physical health.
  • Her personal health struggles with autoimmune diseases and chronic fatigue, and how regulating her nervous system led to profound healing.

• 33:00 – The Power of Simple Healing Techniques

  • Anna shares the simple yet powerful technique of writing down fears and resentments daily, a method she learned from a friend in AA.
  • How this practice gave her the emotional relief she had been seeking for years.

• 38:45 – Generational Trauma and Breaking the Cycle

  • Anna reflects on the generational trauma in her family and the importance of breaking the cycle of emotional neglect and dysfunction.
  • How her own healing journey has allowed her to parent with more stability and emotional availability.

• 43:00 – The Myth of ‘What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Stronger’

  • Anna challenges the common belief that trauma automatically leads to growth, explaining that for many people, trauma can be devastating without proper support.
  • The dangers of spiritual bypassing and toxic positivity.

• 48:15 – Finding True Healing and Becoming Your Full Self

  • Anna talks about the ultimate goal of trauma healing: becoming your full, real self and creating space to hear your own inner guidance.
  • The importance of personal freedom, acceptance, and helping others on their healing journey.

• 53:00 – Practical Takeaways and Final Thoughts

  • Anna offers actionable advice for anyone struggling with childhood trauma, focusing on simple daily practices that help re-regulate the nervous system and foster healing.
  • How to connect with Anna and learn more about her work with the Crappy Childhood Fairy.

• Childhood PTSD often goes unrecognized or is misunderstood, even within the medical community.
• Emotional neglect and trauma can deeply impact adult relationships, leading to patterns of insecurity and attachment wounds.
• Healing from trauma involves re-regulating the nervous system, a process that can lead to profound physical, emotional, and mental recovery.
• Simple daily practices, like writing down fears and resentments, can provide powerful emotional relief and open the door to deeper healing.
• Breaking the cycle of generational trauma is possible, and it begins with self-awareness, acceptance, and practical steps toward recovery.

• If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review! Your support helps others find the show.
• Follow me on Instagram: @duffthepsych
• Website: duffthepsych.com
• Join the Hardcore Self Help Facebook Community: Join Here

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:

• Email me with your questions or feedback.
• Visit my website for more contact options.
• Check out the Insight Neuropsychology blog for more brain-focused content.
• NotebookLM
• Pokémon Insurgence

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.

• Dr. Burns' early work with CBT and how it evolved into T.E.A.M. Therapy.
• The creation and impact of the Feeling Great App, and how it leverages AI to deliver therapy.
• Why measuring progress in therapy is essential and how data-driven methods are changing the field.
• The common cause behind many negative emotions, and how to tackle it.
• Dr. Burns’ unique approach to therapy—including why he hasn’t charged for sessions in over 30 years.

Links:

https://feelinggood.com/

 https://www.feelinggreat.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@UCEgz2rq7N1xCHMCcjdyU5zg

https://feelinggood.com/books/

Reach out!

http://duffthepsych.com/contact

[email protected]

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

Managing ADHD and Long COVID: Strategies for Cognitive Challenges In this episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, Dr. Robert Duff addresses a listener's question about the impact of COVID-19 on ADHD symptoms. The listener shares their struggles with ADHD and how contracting long COVID has exacerbated their cognitive difficulties, impacting their academic performance and daily life. Dr. Duff delves into the comorbidity of ADHD with other mental health issues, discusses research on post-COVID syndrome, and offers practical advice for seeking accommodations and support. He emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and provides steps for managing ADHD symptoms effectively. Tune in for compassionate guidance and actionable strategies to navigate ADHD in the context of long COVID.

00:00 Introduction: ADHD and COVID-19 Impact 00:33 Listener's Question: Struggles with ADHD and Long COVID 02:14 Host's Response: Acknowledging the Struggles 03:04 Understanding ADHD and Comorbidities 04:39 COVID-19's Cognitive Impact 08:16 Executive Functioning Explained 10:20 Practical Advice and Encouragement 13:21 Seeking Help and Accommodations 17:30 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Revolutionizing Therapy: Colleen Marshall on Two Chairs' Matching Process

 In this episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, Dr. Robert Duff interviews Colleen Marshall, Chief Clinical Officer at Two Chairs, a company dedicated to improving the therapy experience through innovative matching processes and measurement-based care. They discuss the current challenges in finding a suitable therapist, the importance of therapeutic alliance, and how Two Chairs' approach significantly improves client retention rates. Colleen also shares insights into her background, the systematic changes needed in therapy cultures, and the importance of culturally responsive training. Listeners will gain a better understanding of how Two Chairs is transforming mental health care by ensuring clients find the right therapist for their specific needs and continually measure treatment progress.

 00:00 The Broken Process of Finding a Therapist

01:04 Introducing Two Chairs: Revolutionizing Therapy Matching

01:52 Meet Colleen Marshall: Chief Clinical Officer at Two Chairs

02:44 Colleen's Journey in Mental Health and Innovation

06:22 The Importance of Therapeutic Alliance and Matching

10:17 How Two Chairs Ensures Effective Therapy

16:53 Challenges and Successes in Implementing Measurement-Based Care

28:56 Balancing Wellness and Specialty Training

29:23 Efficient Care and Graduation Goals

31:03 Insurance and Access to Therapy

32:04 Therapist's Role in Client Progress

33:52 Matching Clients with the Right Therapist

36:07 Navigating Therapy Models and Approaches

47:13 Two Chairs: Availability and Process

51:11 Future of Therapy and Cultural Responsiveness

53:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I address two intense and relatable listener questions.

The first question comes from a listener who feels abandoned by their spouse after a traumatic car accident left them with PTSD and potential brain injury. I provide insights on the possible brain injuries they might have sustained, while also discussing the complexities of their strained relationship and offering practical advice for moving forward.

In the second question, a listener struggles with constant phone checking and tech addiction. I offer actionable tips for managing phone usage, including identifying and challenging assumptions, creating a conscious phone use plan, and finding accountability.

This episode aims to provide support, clarity, and practical guidance for listeners dealing with trauma, relationship challenges, and tech overdependence.

This episode is brought to you by NoCD. Overthinking can be more than just a habit—it might be a symptom of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). NoCD provides virtual therapy sessions with licensed therapists specialized in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy, the gold standard treatment for OCD. To learn more, visit http://nocd.com and schedule a free 15-minute call.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview  01:16 Listener's Question: Dealing with Trauma and Relationship Issues 02:33 Understanding Brain Injuries from Car Accidents 08:05 Addressing Relationship Concerns and Seeking Separation 08:11 Sponsor Break: NoCD 15:14 Listener's Question: Overcoming Phone Addiction 17:07 Tips for Reducing Phone Usage 25:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Please send questions to [email protected] 

Breaking Cycles: How Attachment Shapes Our Lives with Dr. Judy Ho

In this episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, host Dr. Duff interviews neuropsychologist Dr. Judy Ho, a tenured professor at Pepperdine University and author of 'The New Rules of Attachment.' They discuss why people often find themselves stuck in repetitive cycles despite different strategies and self-care routines. Dr. Ho explains the significance of revisiting one's past to break patterns, diving deep into attachment theory. They explore how early attachments form who we are, why it's essential to recognize childhood traumas, and the role of self-talk in attachment styles. Dr. Ho also shares her personal parenting insights and the importance of forming a secure attachment with oneself. Additionally, they delve into actionable exercises from Dr. Ho's book that help uncover unmet needs of our inner child and promote lasting change. Tune in for an in-depth conversation about the transformative power of understanding and healing our attachments.

This episode is brought to you by NOCD, a powerful new network of providers specializing in exposure and response prevention. Get treatment for OCD that actually works at http://nocd.com

This episode is also sponsored by BetterHelp – get 10% off your first month of online therapy at http://betterhelp.com/duff

Links!

https://www.amazon.com/New-Rules-Attachment-Relationships-Reparent/dp/1538741423

https://www.instagram.com/drjudyho

https://drjudyho.com/

00:00 Introduction: Breaking the Cycle

00:40 Meet Dr. Judy Ho

01:14 The Importance of Early Attachments

02:46 Personal Stories and Apologies

05:47 Journey into Psychology

18:10 Understanding Attachment Styles

30:11 Understanding Attachment Styles and Self-Talk

31:27 The Challenge of Changing Self-Talk

32:26 The Importance of Patience in Forming New Habits

33:14 Recognizing Overthinking and OCD

35:07 The Mind-Body Connection in Attachment

37:25 Inner Child Work and Self-Attachment

40:22 Practical Steps for Inner Child Healing

44:45 A Real-Life Transformation Story

53:22 Balancing Career and Personal Life

57:04 Parenting and Attachment

01:00:08 Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Reflections