Meet Eli Weinstein

We were lucky to catch up with Eli Weinstein recently and have shared our conversation below.

Eli, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?

Over the years, life has thrown me plenty of curveballs, challenging me to rethink how I define myself. Ultimately, it all boils down to one key question: How do you see yourself, and are you bringing the real you to the table?

Looking back, I was once that friend everyone labeled as “happy-go-lucky,” always cheerful and wearing my heart on my sleeve. I was the kind of person who’d walk around like I’d just won the lottery (even if my bank account strongly disagreed). One day, though, someone asked me if I was, well, mentally unstable—just because I was always so joyful! Imagine that: apparently, big doses of happiness were grounds for suspicion.

That experience taught me something priceless: it’s powerful (and let’s be honest, a bit rebellious) to keep showing up as yourself, quirks and all, no matter what the world throws at you. So go ahead—be you, even if it makes people wonder.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

Meet Eli Weinstein, an LCSW therapist bringing a fresh, no-nonsense approach to mental health, relationships, and parenthood. Eli runs a thriving private practice in New York and Nevada, working with individuals, couples, and families to navigate the emotional challenges of modern life. Now based in sunny Las Vegas with his wife, Ariella, their two wonderful kids, Rikki and Max, and their loyal dog, Belle, Eli infuses his work with the warmth and perspective of both a dedicated therapist and a hands-on father.

To make mental health more accessible and relatable, Eli launched ELIvation and The Dude Therapist podcast, spaces where he breaks down big topics like fatherhood, mental wellness, and relationship dynamics into conversations that feel like talking with your best buddy—who just happens to be a licensed professional. With an inviting, “No BS” style, Eli’s approach is honest, approachable, and geared toward helping people feel empowered through real talk and practical advice.
Eli is also the host of The Dude Therapist podcast, where he chats with mental health experts in a no-nonsense, down-to-earth style that’s refreshing and engaging. Each episode dives into topics like relationships, personal growth, and emotional well-being, with a blend of humor and real talk that makes complex ideas relatable and easy to apply in everyday life. Think of it as therapy meets your favorite coffee chat.

With an honest, “no BS” approach, Eli’s goal is to connect with people who want real, actionable advice minus the jargon. His style resonates with listeners who are eager for practical insights but want to enjoy the journey, too.

Beyond the podcast, Eli is also set to release a book with Wiley Publishers focused on parenting and relationships. The book is yet another step in his mission to make mental health a conversation that’s open to everyone, whether you’re a parent juggling life’s demands or a couple navigating relationship dynamics.

Through it all, Eli hopes to help people feel seen, understood, and empowered.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

To me I have learned the most from my family (my biggest role model was my grandfather):
1. Find Your People: Look, life’s too short to go it alone, and nobody has time for toxic energy. Finding your people—the ones who get you, support you, and maybe even call you out when needed—is a lifesaver. Whether it’s mentors, friends, or a supportive community, these are the folks who keep you grounded and inspired. If you’re just starting out, make it a mission to connect with those who lift you up and don’t make you want to roll your eyes every five minutes. Trust me, they’ll make all the difference.
2. Find Your Purpose: I know, “finding your purpose” sounds like a slogan on a motivational poster, but hear me out—it really is a game-changer. Knowing why you’re doing what you’re doing gives you this fuel that caffeine just can’t match (although, hey, caffeine helps too). For me, making mental health accessible and real is what keeps me going. If you’re new to the journey, ask yourself what truly lights you up and feels meaningful. That’s your North Star right there.
3. Always Stay True to You: Honestly, being true to myself has been my secret weapon. When I started out, I tried to fit the “perfect professional” mold, but it felt like wearing someone else’s shoes. Now? I’m all about the real talk, “no BS” vibe, and it’s way more rewarding. To anyone just starting out, remember: there’s no one like you. Show up as yourself, quirks and all—it’s a lot more fun, and it keeps life interesting. Besides, nobody can be you better than you can.

Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?

This is a juicy one! Honestly, the biggest challenge I face is my own brain convincing me that I’m somehow not enough or not “worthy” of the space I’m in. It’s like my brain turns into a relentless critic who keeps pointing at numbers, likes, and all these external things that have nothing to do with who I really am. Ever had that feeling? You’re working your tail off, making a real impact in a space you love, and yet your mind is over here, like, “But are you sure? Are we sure?”

The ironic part is, deep down, I know I’m surrounded by amazing support—my family, who stands by me, cheers me on, and reminds me what really matters when I get a bit too caught up in the social media hamster wheel. They’re the reality check that pulls me back when I start spiraling over numbers or comparing myself to others. I’m working hard in a field that matters to me, and I have the kind of support I know many people would be lucky to have. So yeah, the biggest challenge? Silencing that inner critic and focusing on what’s real, meaningful, and genuinely fulfilling—no number or like count needed.

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