How to Stay at Your Best When Life Is at Its Worst with Dr Eric Goodman

How to Stay at Your Best When Life Is at Its Worst with Dr Eric Goodman

From People Soup by People Soup

April 29, 2026 · 25 min · Season 7 · Episode 16

About this episode

Dr. Eric Goodman discusses how to manage overwhelming situations and regain control in difficult moments.

Dr. Eric Goodman joins Ross McIntosh for a practical and powerful conversation about how we respond when life feels overwhelming. Why do smart, capable people sometimes say things they regret, shut down under pressure, or react in ways that don’t reflect who they want to be? Eric explains how our threat system can take over, why that’s completely human, and what we can do to regain choice in difficult moments. Together, Ross and Eric explore: Why we all go on autopilot sometimes How the threat system can “drive the bus” Why painful emotions are part of being human A simple sequence for getting grounded under pressure How self-compassion can reduce suffering without removing difficulty One question that can guide wiser action: “If I was at my absolute best, what would I want to do now?” How to deal with difficult people at work Eric’s memorable acronym: AFGO – Another F *ing Growth Opportunity** This episode is full of practical ideas for work, leadership and everyday life. People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use. If you’re enjoying People Soup, hit follow so you don’t miss…

People in this episode

Host: Ross McIntosh

Guest: Dr. Eric Goodman

Topics covered

  • mental health
  • emotional regulation
  • self-compassion
  • workplace dynamics
  • personal growth

Keywords

  • threat system
  • autopilot
  • grounding techniques
  • AFGO
  • difficult conversations

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