The Struggle

Gregor S Thomson
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Find meaning and purpose through the art of struggle with philosopher and writer Gregor S Thomson. Through posing fundamental questions, this podcast guides the listener to discover who they are, where they are unnecessarily struggling and where they could embrace struggling more in order to live a healthy and productive life.

  1. 1 FEB

    #74 - The Freedom Fallacy: Why Chasing Freedom Is Making You Miserable

    Most of us feel trapped between two voices: One telling us to work harder, achieve more, and sacrifice now… And another telling us to slow down and enjoy life before it’s too late. In this episode of The Struggle podcast, I explore what I call The Freedom Fallacy — the belief that freedom only exists in the future once success is achieved. This episode breaks down: • What the Freedom Fallacy really is • Why it appears in the “messy middle” of any ambitious project • The psychological cost of postponing life • How to struggle toward freedom without burning out • Why presence, joy, and rest are not distractions but part of the journey This is not a productivity hack. It’s a lens for living. If you’re working hard for a better future but feel like you’re missing your life right now, this episode is for you. ⸻ 🎧 Topics covered: Freedom vs struggle Burnout and regret Delayed gratification Meaning and purpose Ambition and presence Psychology of motivation If this resonated with you, subscribe for weekly episodes exploring psychology, philosophy, and the struggle for a meaningful life. “The answer lies in the struggle.” Conceptual influences (not quoted): • Viktor Frankl – Man’s Search for Meaning (meaning through struggle) • Friedrich Nietzsche – “He who has a why…” • Carl Jung – individuation and psychological tension • Cal Newport – Deep Work / burnout & meaningful effort • Oliver Burkeman – Four Thousand Weeks (time and life balance) • Zach Talender – “Space Cadet” metaphor (credit clearly as inspiration) • Self-determination theory (Deci & Ryan) –autonomy, competence, relatedness 📺 Watch The Struggle YouTube - https://youtube.com/@GregorSThomson?si=wTfFwPVYKhJxKAsD 📱 Get In Touch Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/gregorsthomson/ Tiktok -https://www.tiktok.com/@gregor.s.thomson?_t=8ioMNLUnA25&_r=1 Email - gregor@gregorthomson.com

    10 min

  2. 18 JAN

    #73 - Your To-Do List Is Causing Burnout (Do This Instead)

    Feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list? If productivity keeps leading to burnout, guilt, and never feeling like you’ve done enough — this episode will change how you plan your day. In Episode 73 of The Struggle, I break down a self-compassionate productivity framework that replaces shame, overworking, and endless task lists with clarity, sustainability, and calm — without sacrificing progress. You’ll learn:  • Why “doing more” actually causes burnout  • How guilt and shame sabotage productivity  • A simple daily framework to reduce overwhelm  • How to know when to rest and when to push  • Why discipline without self-awareness leads to collapse This episode is for you if:  • You feel like a failure at the end of most days  • You’re exhausted by self-improvement culture  • Rest feels unproductive or undeserved  • You want consistency without burnout This isn’t about doing less — it’s about doing what matters, in alignment with how you actually feel. 📌 Subscribe or follow for grounded, evidence-based conversations on productivity, self-compassion, psychology, and meaning. The answer lies in the struggle — so keep on struggling. This episode reflects personal experience and interpretation of existing research and literature and is not intended as medical advice. References McKeown, G. (2014). Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less. Crown Business. 📺 Watch The Struggle YouTube - https://youtube.com/@GregorSThomson?si=wTfFwPVYKhJxKAsD 📱 Get In Touch Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/gregorsthomson/ Tiktok -https://www.tiktok.com/@gregor.s.thomson?_t=8ioMNLUnA25&_r=1 Email - gregor@gregorthomson.com

    14 min

  3. 4 JAN

    #72 - ADHD: Disability or Superpower? Professor James Brown Explains the Truth

    In Episode 72 of The Struggle, I sit down with ADHD expert Professor James Brown to explore the complex realities of ADHD. Is it a disability, a superpower, or simply a different way of thinking? We dive into the science, lived experiences, and strategies for managing ADHD effectively. We discuss: • How ADHD affects motivation, focus, and reward pathways • Differences in ADHD presentation between men and women • The hereditary and environmental factors behind ADHD • The impact of modern life and social media on ADHD • Practical insights for living with ADHD and accepting yourself Whether you suspect you have ADHD, are a parent, or just want to understand the condition better, this episode is packed with evidence-based insights and personal experiences. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly discussions on psychology, philosophy, and life strategies: @GregorSThomson ⸻ 📱Get In Touch Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/gregorsthomson/ Tiktok -https://www.tiktok.com/@gregor.s.thomson?_t=8ioMNLUnA25&_r=1 Email - gregor@gregorthomson.com 📺 Watch The Struggle YouTube - https://youtube.com/@GregorSThomson?si=wTfFwPVYKhJxKAsD Reference List 1. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing. 2. Barkley, R. A. (2015). Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Handbook for Diagnosis and Treatment (4th ed.). New York, NY: Guilford Press. 3. Brown, T. E. (2020). A New Understanding of ADHD in Children and Adults. Routledge. 4. Castellanos, F. X., & Tannock, R. (2002). Neuroscience of ADHD. Current Opinion in Neurobiology, 12(2), 157–162. 5. Faraone, S. V., Larsson, H. (2019). Genetics of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Molecular Psychiatry, 24, 562–575. 6. Ginsberg, Y., Quintero, J., Anand, E., Casillas, M., & Upadhyaya, H. P. (2014). Underdiagnosis of ADHD in Adults. Postgraduate Medicine, 126(5), 108–122. 7. Hartmann, T. (1993). Attention Deficit Disorder: A Different Perception. Underwood Books. 8. Mate, G. (2010). Scattered Minds: The Origins and Healing of Attention Deficit Disorder. Vintage Canada. 9. Nigg, J. T. (2017). Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Adverse Environments: Implications for Genetic Research. Development and Psychopathology, 29(4), 1527–1545. 10. New Scientist. (2023). “Understanding ADHD in Adults.” [Article]. New Scientist. 11. Shaw, P., et al. (2012). Developmental Neuroimaging of ADHD. American Journal of Psychiatry, 169(9), 919–926. 12. Volkow, N. D., Wang, G.-J., Fowler, J. S., & Telang, F. (2009). ADHD: Reward Deficiency Syndrome. Biological Psychiatry, 65(10), 859–866. 13. Wilens, T. E., & Spencer, T. J. (2010). Understanding ADHD in Adults. Harvard Review of Psychiatry, 18(6), 291–303. 14. Zentall, S. S. (2005). Theory- and Evidence-Based Strategies for ADHD Management. School Psychology Review, 34(3), 377–402. 15. TikTok Studies: Chiu, K. et al. (2023). Misleading ADHD Content on TikTok. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 25(8), e51234.

    1h 1m

  4. 07/12/2025

    #71 - The Quote That Explains Why Life Feels Unbearable (And How to Finally Live)

    In Episode 71 of The Struggle, we dive into one of the most powerful ideas I’ve ever come across — a 13-word quote by Zen teacher Charlotte Joko Beck: “What makes it unbearable is your mistaken belief that it can be cured.” This single line might explain why you feel unhappy, unsatisfied, or constantly searching for meaning. In Buddhism, suffering isn’t something to escape — it’s something to see clearly. In this episode, we explore: • why we suffer more in our minds than in reality • the Zen story of the student under the cold waterfall • why trying to “cure” life makes life worse • the illusion that the future will save us • how material possessions and achievements trap us • why accepting suffering is the beginning of freedom • how focus creates your emotional reality • why the present becomes unbearable when we worship the future Life isn’t a problem to be fixed, and there is no magic cure coming later. But accepting that truth is where peace actually begins. If episodes like this help you think differently about your life, subscribe. This journey is only just beginning. References 1. Charlotte Joko Beck Beck, C. J. (1990). Everyday Zen: Love and Work. HarperCollins. — Source of the quote: “What makes it unbearable is your mistaken belief that it can be cured.” (This is the most accurate traceable source of her teachings.) 2. Buddhism – Foundational Teachings on Suffering (Dukkha) Rahula, W. (1974). What the Buddha Taught. Grove Press. — Overview of the Four Noble Truths and the nature of suffering. Harvey, P. (2013). An Introduction to Buddhism: Teachings, History and Practices. Cambridge University Press. — Scholarly explanation of suffering, attachment, and perception. 3. Zen Buddhism – Mindfulness, Perception, and Direct Experience Kapleau, P. (1980). The Three Pillars of Zen. Anchor Books. — Discusses direct awareness, discomfort, and perception. Shunryu Suzuki (1970). Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind. Weatherhill. — Explores non-judgment, direct experience, and acceptance. 4. Zen Teaching Story (Student Under the Cold Waterfall) This story is a widely taught Zen parable. A commonly cited retelling is in: Osho (2001). Zen: Its History and Teachings and Impact on Humanity. Watkins Publishing. — Contains multiple Zen training stories, including endurance teachings similar to the waterfall anecdote. This is a classic Zen teaching story passed down through various teachers and retold in multiple sources. 5. Einstein Quote (Insanity Definition) Although widely attributed to Albert Einstein, the origin is disputed. The earliest documented appearance is: Narcotics Anonymous (1981). Narcotics Anonymous (1st ed.). — The line appears here, not in Einstein’s writings. 6. Tony Robbins Exercise (Focus On Color Prompt) Robbins, T. (1991). Awaken the Giant Within. Free Press. — Robbins uses variations of the “look for brown, now recall gold” focus/perception exercise in his seminars and books. 7. Hedonic Adaptation / The “New Car” Emptiness Problem Brickman, P., & Campbell, D. T. (1971). Hedonic Relativism and Planning the Good Society. — Foundational research on why achievements and purchases don’t produce lasting happiness. Lyubomirsky, S. (2007). The How of Happiness. Penguin. — Modern evidence for why external accomplishments don’t cure dissatisfaction. ⸻ Disclaimer: This episode draws on concepts from Zen Buddhism, modern psychology, and philosophical sources. All quotes are credited to their original authors, and traditional Zen stories are referenced as commonly retold teachings rather than original content. The interpretations and explanations in this episode are my own. 📝Sponsor Sign up for The Struggle Newsletter here - https://gregorthomson.com 📺 Watch The Struggle YouTube - https://youtube.com/@GregorSThomson?si=wTfFwPVYKhJxKAsD 📱 Get In Touch Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/gregorsthomson/ Tiktok -https://www.tiktok.com/@gregor.s.thomson?_t=8ioMNLUnA25&_r=1 Email - gregor@gregorthomson.com

    14 min

  5. 23/11/2025

    #70 - The Truth About Desire: Why We Want What We Want With Charlotte Fox Weber

    Are We Slaves to Our Desires? | Charlotte Fox Weber on Human Desires, Free Will & Relationships In this episode of The Struggle, Gregor Thomson sits down with renowned psychologist and author Charlotte Fox Weber to explore the complex nature of human desires, free will, and the role our upbringing and societal scripts play in shaping what we want. They discuss: • How desires can enslave us if ignored, but can also guide us toward self-discovery (00:08–04:50) • The paradox of instant gratification vs. higher-order desires and finding balance in daily life (03:30–05:50) • Understanding taboo or “dark” desires and how curiosity can free us from shame (09:12–12:34) • How childhood experiences and cultural scripts shape our expectations in love and relationships (12:34–21:21) • The evolutionary roots of wanting to be noticed and understood, and why this is central to human connection (25:56–32:53) • The challenge of balancing autonomy and connection in modern life (34:23–37:15) • Practical tips for reconnecting with others, noticing small joys, and cultivating flexibility and self-compassion (37:15–54:49) This conversation is a masterclass in navigating the human mind, understanding the motivations behind our actions, and embracing complexity in both desire and life. 📚 Charlotte Fox Weber’s Book: • What We Want: A Journey Through Twelve of Our Deepest Desires • Follow Charlotte on Instagram: @charlottefoxweberpsychology • Upcoming book (2026): Sacred Monsters Books • Weber, C. F. (2024). What We Want: Unlocking the Power of Desire. [Publisher not specified in transcript] • Von Hippo, W. (2024). The Social Paradox: Balancing Autonomy and Connection. [Publisher not specified in transcript] • Weber, C. F. (2026). Sacred Monsters. Penguin. • William Von Hippel: The Social Paradox: Autonomy, Connection, and Why We Need Both to Find Happiness • Oliver Burkeman (4000 Weeks): Concept of telic vs atelic activities. [Referenced by Thomson] • Greg McKeown’s 1-2-3 Method - Essentialism [Referenced by Thomson] ⸻ Podcasts / Interviews • Chris Williamson (Modern Wisdom) Discussion on finding joy in small everyday moments. [Referenced by Thomson] ⸻ Quotes / Philosophical References • Sartre, J.-P. (1943). No Exit (“Hell is other people”). 📄 Sponsor Sign up for The Struggle Newsletter here - https://gregorthomson.com 📺 Watch The Struggle YouTube - https://youtube.com/@GregorSThomson?si=wTfFwPVYKhJxKAsD 📱 Get In Touch Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/gregorsthomson/ Tiktok -https://www.tiktok.com/@gregor.s.thomson?_t=8ioMNLUnA25&_r=1 Email - gregor@gregorthomson.com

    58 min

  6. 09/11/2025

    #69 - Toxic Productivity: How Hustle Culture Can Ruin Your Life (And The Solution)

    Are you an ambitious overachiever constantly chasing “more”? In Episode 69 of The Struggle, I explore toxic productivity — what it is, how hustle culture can slowly ruin your life if left unchecked, and most importantly, how to find balance and reclaim your time. We dive into: • The subtle dangers of following ultra-productive role models on social media. • How tying your self-worth to achievements can backfire. • The difference between telic activities (goal-oriented) and atelic activities (done for their own sake). • Practical strategies to rebalance your life with compassion, presence, and sustainable productivity. If you’ve ever felt like resting, doing less, or enjoying life comes with guilt — this episode is for you. Learn why overcorrecting from underachievement can be just as harmful as doing too little, and discover tools to cultivate a healthier, more fulfilling approach to your goals. 🎧 Watch or listen to the full episode and start finding your balance today. References & Further Reading: 1. Burkeman, Oliver. Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals. Penguin Random House, 2021. 2. The Hidden Traps Of Productivity With Oliver Burkeman | Episode 38 | The Struggle (Video) - https://youtu.be/5mi6vhwMkVU?si=nGppIORdqyYkeiAJ 3. Modern Wisdom Podcast – Episode featuring Oliver Burkeman: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czinKQl88uU 4. Chris Williamson (Modern Wisdom) – “0–50 vs 90–95” 5. Sowell, Thomas. Basic Economics: A Common Sense Guide to the Economy. Basic Books, 2014. 6. Zack Talender – “Be a space cadet who notices the little things.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbzJ9rIWF7g 📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe/follow The Struggle for more episodes exploring productivity, mindset, and personal growth. 📺 Watch The Struggle YouTube - https://youtube.com/@GregorSThomson?si=wTfFwPVYKhJxKAsD 📱 Get In Touch Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/gregorsthomson/ Tiktok -https://www.tiktok.com/@gregor.s.thomson?_t=8ioMNLUnA25&_r=1 Email - gregor@gregorthomson.com

    16 min

  7. 26/10/2025

    #68 - ADHD Explained: Why We Struggle to Focus & Follow Through with Dr John Kruse

    What if the most controversial public figure of our time could help us understand ADHD better?   In this episode of The Struggle, psychiatrist Dr. John Kruse breaks down the science of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) through the lens of Donald Trump’s behavior — exploring impulsivity, hyperfocus, and control of attention. Whether you’ve just started exploring ADHD or you’ve lived with it for years, this deep dive offers valuable insights into how the ADHD brain works in adults, why it’s so often misunderstood, and what the media gets wrong about “distraction” and “drive.” We unpack: • The difference between focus vs. control of attention • Why ADHD is underdiagnosed in adults and seniors • The paradox of hyperfocus vs. distractibility • Misconceptions on social media (e.g., TikTok misinformation trends) • How environment and genetics interact in ADHD • Why stimulants like Adderall work — and their real risks • Why ADHD might shorten lifespan if untreated • Lessons schools and workplaces can learn about neurodiversity Dr. Kruse also discusses real-world stories of lifelong ADHD awareness, misdiagnosis, and late-in-life discovery — including a humorous example of how an 80-year-old man found clarity through understanding his ADHD patterns. Learn more about ADHD on Dr John Kruse’s YouTube channel here: https://youtube.com/@drjohnkruse?si=LOTP2EhfoJLJOVPS & his Medium page here: https://dockruse.medium.com 📰 Sponsor Sign up for The Struggle Newsletter here - https://gregorthomson.com 📺 Watch The Struggle YouTube - https://youtube.com/@GregorSThomson?si=wTfFwPVYKhJxKAsD 📱 Get In Touch Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/gregorsthomson/ Tiktok -https://www.tiktok.com/@gregor.s.thomson?_t=8ioMNLUnA25&_r=1 Email - gregor@gregorthomson.com 🎵 Music Conal Mooney - https://www.instagram.com/conalmooneyaudio?igsh=dGxqdThlNnNoNzh6 Reference List Kruse, J. (2020). Recognizing Adult ADHD: What Donald Trump Can Teach Us About Executive Dysfunction. DrJohnKruse.com. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Faraone, S. V., & Larsson, H. (2019). Genetics of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Molecular Psychiatry, 24(4), 562–575. Dalsgaard, S., et al. (2015). Mortality in Children, Adolescents, and Adults With ADHD. The Lancet, 385(9983), 2190–2196. Weiss, M., & Weiss, G. (2004). ADHD in Adults: A Guide to Evaluation and Treatment. Guilford Press. Barkley, R. A. (2015). Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Handbook for Diagnosis and Treatment (4th ed.). Guilford Press. Stat News. (2017). I’m an Expert on Diagnosing Mental Illness. Trump Doesn’t Meet Criteria for a Mental Disorder. CHADD. (2025). ADHD in the News – September Edition. 🔍 Hashtags #ADHD #ADHDAwareness #ADHDTreatment #AdultADHD #MentalHealth #DonaldTrump #FocusAndAttention #TheStrugglePodcast

    1h 17m

  8. 12/10/2025

    #67 - 5 Life Lessons I Wish I Knew at 20 (Now That I’m 30)

    Turning 30 gave me perspective — and in this episode of The Struggle Podcast, I share five lessons I wish I’d known a decade ago. These are insights that changed how I think about productivity, rest, meaning, and self-compassion. If you’ve ever felt lost, unmotivated, or stuck in constant self-improvement mode, these lessons might help you slow down, reflect, and reconnect with what truly matters. ⸻ 🧠 In This Episode Lesson 1:Music is the Space Between the Notes — why rest, relationships, and stillness are essential for a meaningful life. Lesson 2:You Are Not Who You Think You Are — the paradox of self and thought from Sam Harris. Lesson 3:You Are Loved in Your Anger — how men can find emotional safety and acceptance. Lesson 4:Peace Is Building a Better Boat — what Oliver Burkeman, Greg McKeown, and Travis Meadows can teach us about embracing imperfection. Lesson 5:This Rules — a simple gratitude practice that makes life richer. ⸻ 🪞 Referenced Thinkers, Authors & Works 1. Claude Debussy (1862–1918) Quote: “Music is the space between the notes.” — Widely attributed to Debussy, French composer and pianist. 2. Chris Williamson (@ChrisWillx) Host of Modern Wisdom podcast — referenced discussion with Dr. John Delony on delayed gratification and fulfillment. 3. Dr. John Delony Psychologist, author, and host of The Dr. John Delony Show — referenced for his views on self-worth and emotional health. Book: Own Your Past, Change Your Future (HarperCollins, 2022). 4. Kyle Eschenroeder Essay: “Wanting What You Want to Want” — explores the difference between surface desires and meaningful goals. Available at: https://www.artofmanliness.com/character/advice/what-do-you-want-to-want/ 5. Sam Harris Meditation reference: “You are not who you think you are, but you are condemned to be who you think you are.” — from Waking Up App (“Moments” meditation series) 6. Johnny Miller (@johnnym1ller) Coach and nervous system teacher -  “You are loved in your anger.” 7. Oliver Burkeman Book: Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals (Bodley Head, 2021). Referenced quotes -  “True security lies in the unrestrained embrace of insecurity — in the recognition that we never really stand on solid ground, and never can.” “You can’t do everything, or have everything, or be everything. But realizing this is what gives you the opportunity to make the best choices you can, in each moment.” 8. Travis Meadows & Liz Rose Song: “Better Boat” (2018), written by Meadows and Rose, performed by Kenny Chesney. Lyric reference: “Peace is not finding calmer seas; it’s learning to build a better boat.” 9. Tim Ferriss Quote: “If it’s not a hell yes, it’s a no.” — from Tools of Titans (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2016). 10. Greg McKeown Book: Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less (Crown Business, 2014). Referenced concept: The 1-2-3 Framework for prioritizing tasks, which I altered to be the 1-3-5 Framework. 11. Zach Telander (@ZachTelander) Story: “This Rules” — shared via Instagram here @zach_telander ⸻ 🧩 Key Takeaways • Productivity without rest is noise without music. • You are not your thoughts. • You can be better and be enough now. • True peace is acceptance, not control. • Gratitude turns ordinary life into something that rules. ⸻ 🔗 Support the Show If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe or follow to The Struggle Podcast for weekly reflections on self-development, philosophy, and mental health. Leave a ★★★★★ review to help the show grow. 📰 Sponsor Sign up for The Struggle Newsletter here - https://gregorthomson.com 📺 Watch The Struggle YouTube - https://youtube.com/@GregorSThomson?si=wTfFwPVYKhJxKAsD 📱 Get In Touch Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/gregorsthomson/ Tiktok -https://www.tiktok.com/@gregor.s.thomson?_t=8ioMNLUnA25&_r=1 Email - gregor@gregorthomson.com 🎵 Music Conal Mooney - https://www.instagram.com/conalmooneyaudio?igsh=dGxqdThlNnNoNzh6 ⸻ #LifeLessons #TheStrugglePodcast #SelfImprovement #Mindset #Turning30 #PersonalGrowth #Philosophy #ChrisWilliamson #OliverBurkeman #SamHarris #Essentialism #BetterBoat #ThisRules

    33 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Find meaning and purpose through the art of struggle with philosopher and writer Gregor S Thomson. Through posing fundamental questions, this podcast guides the listener to discover who they are, where they are unnecessarily struggling and where they could embrace struggling more in order to live a healthy and productive life.

Information

  • Creator
    Gregor S Thomson
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    74
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Gregor S Thomson
  • Show Website
    The Struggle