Kristin Neff on Fierce Self-Compassion, Stress, and Real Strength

Aug 19, 2025

56:24:45

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If you've ever caught yourself saying something to yourself that you'd never say to a friend, this episode will change everything.

Dr. Elisha Goldstein sits down with Dr. Kristin Neff—the researcher who brought self-compassion from "squishy self-help topic" to hard science. As a UT Austin professor and author of Self-Compassion and Fierce Self-Compassion, Kristin proves being kind to yourself isn't weakness—it's your secret weapon.

🎯 What we explore:

Why self-compassion was once "too feminine" for psychology
The three essential components that make self-compassion work
How self-compassion changes your nervous system and inflammation
The difference between self-compassion and self-pity
Why "this is a hard moment" are four life-changing words
How AI might revolutionize self-compassion practices

Whether you're battling imposter syndrome, perfectionism, or tired of being your worst critic, this episode offers the science behind lasting self-acceptance.

⏱ Timestamps:

00:00 – The Human Truth About Getting It Wrong

02:00 – When Self-Compassion Was "Too Soft"

11:00 – The Three Core Components

33:00 – The Biology of Self-Compassion

42:00 – The Question That Changes Everything

51:00 – One Thing to Whisper to Your Struggling Self

🔗 Resources & Free Tools

✨ Learn More About Dr. Kristin Neff:

Website | Take the Self-Compassion Scale | Self-Compassion Community

Books: Self-Compassion and Fierce Self-Compassion available wherever books are sold

🌱 Explore Dr. Elisha Goldstein's Support Tools: