Story: Brad Stulberg (Self-Harm-Themed OCD, Writing, and His Book The Way of Excellence) (#541)

Episode 541 features bestselling author Brad Stulberg opening up about his lifelong battle with obsessive‑compulsive disorder, specifically a self‑harm themed subtype that emerged in his teens. He describes early health obsessions, the escalation into intrusive urges, and the isolation that followed. Brad’s candid recounting of how he finally sought professional help highlights the difficulty many face when recognizing OCD as a medical condition rather than a personal flaw. By contextualizing his experience within broader mental‑health discourse, the conversation underscores why early diagnosis and destigmatization are critical for individuals and workplaces alike.

The core of the interview turns to treatment, where Brad credits exposure and response prevention (ERP) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) as turning points. He explains how ERP systematically reduced his compulsive rituals, while ACT helped him accept unwanted thoughts without acting on them. Brad also emphasizes the role of a skilled therapist, regular support‑group meetings, and mindfulness practices anchored in personal values. Writing about his OCD became a therapeutic outlet, allowing him to reframe pain into lessons on mastery and meaning. These strategies collectively illustrate a roadmap that clinicians and corporate wellness programs can adapt for high‑performing teams.

Brad’s latest release, *The Way of Excellence*, weaves his OCD recovery into a broader philosophy of performance, resilience, and purposeful work. He argues that confronting inner turmoil can sharpen focus, foster authentic values, and drive sustainable excellence—principles directly applicable to leaders seeking competitive advantage. The episode therefore offers business audiences actionable insights: integrate mindfulness into decision‑making, normalize mental‑health conversations, and leverage personal narratives to build cohesive culture. As organizations prioritize employee well‑being, Brad’s story demonstrates that mental‑health interventions are not just therapeutic but also strategic assets that enhance productivity and innovation.