426: How to Find Purpose and Not Regret Your Life with Jordan Grumet

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.

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Sponsor
This episode is brought to you by NOCD, a leading provider of virtual therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). If you're caught in an endless loop of “what-ifs” or struggling with obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, NOCD offers specialized, evidence-based therapy designed just for OCD—Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). They accept many major insurance plans, making it accessible and affordable, with support available between therapy sessions.

To learn more about OCD and how NOCD Therapy can help, visit http://learn.nocd.com/hardcore. 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.

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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

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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.

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Guest Links

• Dr. Grumet’s Website: https://jordangrumet.com
• The Purpose Code: