

The Hardcore Self-Help Podcast with Duff the Psych
Robert Duff, Ph.D.
Hey, friends! My name is Robert. I am a neuropsychologist and self-help author. In this podcast, I interview fascinating individuals and provide information about psychology, mental health, neuroscience, relationships, and more. I have been told that I ask amazing questions and that I am talented at breaking down complex science into digestible information. Come have a listen and let me know if you agree!
Episodes
Mentioned books

26 snips
Nov 22, 2024 • 58min
422: Charles Duhigg on Becoming a Supercommunicator
In this engaging conversation, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author Charles Duhigg dives into the science behind effective communication. He shares insights from his book, Supercommunicators, emphasizing the importance of empathy and active listening. Duhigg breaks down different conversation types—practical, emotional, and social—and elaborates on techniques like neural entrainment to enhance connection. With practical strategies to tackle social anxiety and miscommunication, this discussion offers valuable tools for anyone looking to transform their interpersonal relationships.

Nov 15, 2024 • 26min
421: Grieving your Therapist & Non-Suicidal Self-Injury
Listeners explore the emotional challenges of ending a therapeutic relationship, grasping the grief that accompanies such loss. The conversation highlights the nuanced issues of transference and the steps necessary for emotional healing. They also delve into the often-ignored physical symptoms of depression, like fatigue and dissociation, discussing non-suicidal self-injury as a coping mechanism. Practical tools and alternative strategies for managing these experiences are offered, emphasizing the importance of connecting with one's body and seeking professional guidance.

Nov 8, 2024 • 47min
420: Productive Failure with Dr. Manu Kapur
Dr. Manu Kapur, a professor at ETH Zurich, specializes in productive failure, a method that integrates structured failure into learning. He explains how facing failure can deepen understanding and retention. The discussion covers the 'four A’s' of productive failure—Activation, Awareness, Affect, and Assembly. Kapur shares personal anecdotes from his journey, illustrating how negative emotions can boost memory and motivation. He also explores how these concepts apply beyond the classroom, aiding parents in fostering resilience and a growth mindset in children.

27 snips
Oct 25, 2024 • 45min
419: Seth Godin - Using Strategy to Shape Your Life and Mental Health
In this engaging discussion with Seth Godin, a marketing expert and bestselling author, he shares his transformative near-death experience that reshaped his outlook on life and service. He emphasizes using strategy as a means of personal growth and aligning with one's values. Topics include overcoming writer's block, the power of generosity, and recognizing societal systems that influence decisions. Seth's practical advice on building authentic connections and selecting a fulfilling life path offers valuable insights for anyone striving for purpose and resilience.

Oct 18, 2024 • 1h 9min
418: Healing Childhood PTSD with Anna Runkle The Crappy Childhood Fairy
In this engaging discussion, Anna Runkle, the Crappy Childhood Fairy, shares her journey of healing from childhood PTSD and the innovative methods she's developed to assist others. She dives into her chaotic upbringing in a commune, exploring the long-term effects of emotional neglect. Anna explains the differences between childhood PTSD and complex PTSD, and offers practical exercises for self-love and personal growth. Her insights emphasize the power of vulnerability and connection in the healing process, making it a must-listen for anyone affected by trauma.

Oct 11, 2024 • 29min
417: Podcast Updates and Random Show!
Get the scoop on the latest podcast updates, including a bold move to fire the ad agency for a more authentic experience. Hear about the revival of engaging interviews and personal projects like writing a book on bipolar disorder. Dive into reflections on AI innovations and how they simplify information gathering. Plus, discover a new rucking fitness routine and creative game collaborations with kids. This episode is a fun mix of professional growth, personal insights, and fitness inspiration.

Sep 27, 2024 • 1h 24min
416: David Burns MD - "Feeling Good" Legend on Life, Legacy, and His New AI App
Dr. David Burns, a pioneer in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and best-selling author, shares his journey and insights on mental health. He delves into his innovative T.E.A.M. Therapy method, discussing how it fosters rapid recovery from depression and anxiety. The conversation highlights the groundbreaking Feeling Great App, which utilizes AI to make therapy more accessible. Burns emphasizes the importance of measuring progress in therapy and redefines resistance as a strength, showcasing how empathy and technology can transform mental health treatment.

Sep 20, 2024 • 58min
415: Latino Mental Health, Machismo, and Vulnerability as Strength with Dr. Paul Rivera
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

Sep 13, 2024 • 18min
414: Does COVID-19 Make ADHD Worse?
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

Sep 6, 2024 • 54min
413: Therapy Search is BROKEN w/ Colleen Marshall from Two Chairs
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


