Show Notes for Episode 047: “When Doubt Becomes Drive” 

The Influence Every Day Show with Dr. Ed Tori 

Episode Overview: 

Have you ever been told you can’t do something? That you won’t succeed? Maybe it was a teacher, a boss, a family member—someone who, intentionally or not, planted a seed of doubt in your mind.

In this episode of The Influence Every Day Show, Dr. Ed Tori unpacks what he calls “Rocky Syndrome”—the deep, defiant motivation that kicks in when someone doubts you. Drawing from his own experiences—being told in elementary school that he’d “never get out” of his neighborhood and later being advised not to apply to medical school—Dr. Tori explores how external doubt can fuel internal drive.

But is proving people wrong always the right motivation? And how do we channel doubt into something truly meaningful?

What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 

✅ The Psychology of Doubt & Motivation – Why some people shut down when doubted while others rise to the challenge.

✅ Reactance Motivation & The Underdog Effect – How being underestimated can become an advantage.

✅ Real-World Examples – From Michael Jordan to Oprah Winfrey to Sylvester Stallone, how history’s greats turned rejection into rocket fuel.

✅ A 4-Step Framework for Turning Doubt into Drive: 

1. Assess the Doubt – Is there truth in their words? What do you need to overcome?
2. Fuel, Don’t Fester – Use doubt as motivation, but don’t let it consume you.
3. Shift the Focus – Instead of proving them wrong, prove yourself right—and serve others.
4. Find the Right Support – Surround yourself with people who elevate you.

🚀 “You don’t need someone to doubt you to take action. But if they do? Use it. Let their doubt become your drive.” 

Episode Links & Resources: 

• Need coaching on influence, persuasion, or a tough challenge? Book a strategy call 
• Want to master the best books on influence and communication? Join the Influence Book Club 

Now go forth and influence for good—every day.