In this inspiring episode of the Hardcore Self Help Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Jordan Grumet, a hospice director, author, and podcast host, to explore how we can transform our lives by embracing the concept of “little p purpose.” Dr. Grumet shares insights from his latest book, The Purpose Code, which offers actionable strategies to uncover and build a meaningful life, regardless of your circumstances.

Our conversation dives deep into the difference between “big P Purpose” (society’s lofty, often unattainable ideals) and “little p purpose” (daily actions that bring joy and meaning). Dr. Grumet shares his personal journey—from losing his father at a young age to becoming a physician driven by unresolved trauma, to ultimately finding fulfillment by pursuing his passions for writing, speaking, and connecting with others.

Key takeaways from our discussion include practical ways to recognize your purpose anchors, how to turn regrets into motivations, and why pursuing joy in small, intentional ways can lead to profound impact and lasting legacy. We also explore how Dr. Grumet’s work in hospice has shaped his understanding of what truly matters in life, highlighting lessons from those at the end of their journeys.

This episode is packed with wisdom for anyone feeling stuck, searching for meaning, or simply looking to live with more intentionality and joy.

Sponsor
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Take the first step by visiting https://www.nocd.com to schedule a free 15-minute call with their team. Plus, check out my interview with Dr. Patrick McGrath, NOCD’s Chief Clinical Officer, on episode 406 of this podcast to learn more about OCD and their approach.

Chapters:

• 00:15 — Introduction: Meet Dr. Jordan Grumet
• 02:00 — Finding Purpose After Loss: Dr. Grumet’s Early Life
• 06:15 — Purpose Anchors: Joyful Work vs. Goal-Oriented Burnout
• 10:45 — Lessons from the Hospice Life Review
• 16:30 — Regrets of the Dying: Turning Regret into Action
• 20:00 — Building Purpose When You Feel Stuck
• 24:15 — Tools and Levers: Joy of Addition and Art of Subtraction
• 30:00 — The Difference Between Meaning and Purpose
• 37:00 — How Small Joys Create Big Impact and Legacy
• 44:15 — Practical Steps to Start Building a Purposeful Life
• 50:30 — Final Takeaways: Finding Your Purpose Anchors

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 dives deep into mental health, personal development, and strategies for living authentically and fulfilling your potential.

Guest Links

• Dr. Grumet’s Website: https://jordangrumet.com
• The Purpose Code: https://jordangrumet.com/books
• Podcast: https://www.earnandinvest.com/episodes

Connect With Me:

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

#MentalHealth #Purpose #PersonalDevelopment #Legacy #SelfHelp #Mindfulness

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:

• Website: https://www.duffthepsych.com/
• Contact: https://www.duffthepsych.com/contact
• Email: duffthepsych@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/duffthepsych/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DuffThePsych

#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:

• Website: https://www.duffthepsych.com/
• Contact: https://www.duffthepsych.com/contact
• Email: duffthepsych@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/duffthepsych/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DuffThePsych

#MentalHealth #Antidepressants #Bipolar #WorkStress #Journaling #SleepHygiene #QandA #SelfHelp #Psychology