419: Seth Godin - Using Strategy to Shape Your Life and Mental Health

The Hardcore Self Help Podcast with Duff the Psych

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