On Purpose With Jay Shetty

How do you stay disciplined when life gets busy? What’s a routine that keeps you on track? Today, Jay welcomes Alexis Ohanian, tech founder, venture capitalist, and advocate for social change. Known as the co-founder of Reddit and founder of venture firm 776, Alexis shares the profound lessons he's learned from building communities, parenting, and navigating personal and professional challenges. Alexis shares insights into the evolution of online identities and the surprising dedication of individuals who moderate and foster online spaces; his role as a father, offering a candid glimpse into the delicate balance between introducing his children to the digital world and preserving their innocence.  The conversation also tackles larger societal issues, such as the importance of role models for young men and the transformative potential of positive male friendships. Alexis doesn’t shy away from discussing the darker sides of technology, including the need for ethical boundaries and his personal

How do you unwind after a long day? What’s your favorite way to relax quickly? Today, Jay sits down with David Ko, the CEO of Calm and author of the groundbreaking book Recharge. Together, they unravel the complexities of stress, mental health, and how to create a fulfilling life in today’s fast-paced world. David shares his personal journey, from navigating childhood stress to becoming a leader who champions mental wellness. He introduces the “battery analogy,” a simple yet profound way to gauge our mental and emotional energy levels. Drawing from his book, David explains how understanding and managing our “battery” can transform our approach to stress, productivity, and personal growth. Jay and David discuss the power of presence, the necessity of balance, and how redefining stress—from harmful to helpful—can lead to resilience and growth. Their conversation dives deep into actionable strategies, such as creating rituals to recharge, fostering vulnerability at

What in your day makes you happiest? Where do you see yourself in five years? Today, Jay sits down with the iconic rapper, multi-platinum artist, and entrepreneur Wiz Khalifa. The episode explores Wiz’s journey from navigating the challenges of his youth in Pittsburgh to becoming one of the most recognizable names in the music industry. Throughout their conversation, Wiz shares profound insights into his personal growth, family values, and the discipline behind his success. Wiz reflects on his early days, including the loss of a record deal and the resilience it took to rebuild his career. He discusses his evolution as an artist and individual, emphasizing the importance of gratitude, patience, and staying true to oneself. The conversation also dives into the balance between his professional life and personal responsibilities, particularly as a father. Wiz talks about raising his 11-year-old son, Sebastian, and his new daughter, Cadence, shedding light on how fatherhood has deepened his perspective on l

What does a "rich life" mean to you? Do you focus more on what you have or what you lack? Today, Jay will redefine what it truly means to live a "rich life." While society often equates wealth with material possessions and financial success, Jay challenges this narrow definition and explores how richness can also encompass time, energy, relationships, and inner fulfillment. Drawing on personal experiences, historical insights, and anecdotes from his conversations with inspiring figures like Kobe Bryant and Tom Hanks, Jay illustrates how people can find peace and purpose by focusing on what genuinely matters. He also addresses the pitfalls of tying happiness solely to financial success, emphasizing that it’s not money itself but our mindset—whether driven by envy, ego, or gratitude—that shapes our sense of abundance. Jay further unpacks our personal definitions of wealth. Are we in a season of prioritizing career growth, family, love, or personal development? He explores how life’s richness comes from aligning

What’s the first step to making money with no savings? How do you choose which opportunities to start with? Today, Jay sits down with Codie Sanchez, author of “Main Street Millionaire”. Codie is a powerhouse entrepreneur, investor, and the mind behind Contrarian Thinking, a platform dedicated to empowering people to build real wealth through unconventional investments and small business ownership. Codie’s journey is anything but typical: she went from a middle-class background to finance jobs at Goldman Sachs and Vanguard, then pivoted into journalism, and finally found her calling by building wealth through owning small businesses. Codie breaks down the idea that you don’t need groundbreaking ideas or tons of cash to get started, just a willingness to look beyond the obvious. From laundromats to vending machines, she explains how these “boring” businesses can actually be gold mines, offering steady and substantial returns that often get overlooked in today’s flashy, social media-driven vision of success. Tog

What makes you feel confident about yourself? How do you build your confidence when it’s low? Today, Jay discusses a topic that's all too familiar - the constant barrage of unrealistic beauty standards. He challenges the notion of a singular "most beautiful woman in the world" and explores how societal expectations and media influence our perception of beauty. Jay breaks down the historical and cultural factors that shape beauty standards, from the ancient Greek ideals of symmetry and proportion to the modern-day obsession with youth and perfection. He highlights the role of social media in perpetuating unrealistic beauty ideals and encourages listeners to question these norms and embrace their individuality. In this episode, you'll learn: How to Embrace Individuality How to Build Self-Love How to Set Boundaries How to Appreciate Uniqueness How to Practice Mindfulness By understanding the forces that shape our perception of beauty and cultivating self-love, we can live authentic, fulfilling lives. Remember, t

What triggers envy for you? How do you turn envy into action? Today, in this eye-opening episode, Jay Jay sits down with the legendary Dr. Jordan B. Peterson, a psychologist, educator, and bestselling author. This conversation has been in the making for years, and it’s packed with deep insights on human development, identity, and how ancient wisdom ties into today’s challenges. One of the standout moments is when Jordan talks about his upcoming book, We Who Wrestle With God. He takes listeners through the timeless stories of the Old Testament, explaining how they provide profound lessons on values, integrity, and personal growth. He also talks about the importance of always telling the truth and viewing life as an exploration of what’s possible.  Jay and Jordan discuss how easy it is for people to get trapped in “false adventures”—chasing immediate gratification or quick fixes that ultimately don’t fulfill. Jordan reminds us that real growth involves shedding old parts of ourselves to move forward and align w

  What drains your energy the most?   How do you deal with toxic behaviors?   Today, Jay tackles a topic we can all relate to – dealing with those challenging family members and coworkers who add a little extra stress to our lives, especially as the holiday season rolls around. If you’re already bracing yourself for gatherings with people who seem to bring more tension than joy, Jay’s got you covered. He dives into why certain people fall into negative or toxic patterns, breaking down types like the pessimist, the complainer, the eternal victim, the energy drainer, and the “just good enough” person. Jay’s perspective sheds light on how these behaviors aren’t really who they are at their core but are often habits born from past hurts or unmet needs. Jay doesn’t just stop at explaining, though – he shares some really practical, relatable tips on how to navigate these tough dynamics without letting them throw you off balance. He talks about ways to respond with empathy, set emotional boundaries, and even gently

Have you ever felt stuck in a negative relationship cycle?   Have you ever struggled with setting boundaries in your relationships? Today, Jay welcomes back a community favorite, the renowned psychotherapist, bestselling author, and podcast host Lori Gottlieb, for an insightful chat about love, relationships, and emotional growth. Lori, best known for her book Maybe You Should Talk to Someone and as co-host of the popular Dear Therapists podcast, brings her deep wisdom and practical advice that really hits home with listeners. Lori shares how people often step into love with unrealistic expectations, thanks to social media and pop culture. She reminds us that while the spark of initial chemistry is thrilling, true, long-lasting love thrives on a deeper connection and genuine understanding. One of the highlights is Lori’s take on “idiot compassion” versus “wise compassion.” She breaks down how real compassion means looking at ourselves honestly, recognizing our patterns, and owning our part in the relationship

Do you ever try focusing on just one thing at a time? What’s one way you avoid distractions? Today, Jay’s diving into a struggle we all know too well: distraction. If you’ve ever found yourself scrolling on your phone without even thinking about it, you’re definitely not alone. Jay breaks down why it’s so hard to stay focused in a world full of constant notifications and packed schedules. But this episode isn’t about making us feel guilty—instead, it’s about giving us simple, doable strategies to actually make focus easier. Jay’s packed this episode with practical tips, like creating “no-phone zones” at home and setting tech-free times during the day to really be present. One of the standout strategies he shares is the Pomodoro Technique—working in short, focused bursts with breaks in between to keep your brain sharp and productive. Jay’s main message? Real productivity isn’t about doing more, faster—it’s about doing things better. He even shares some unique Ayurvedic advice, like chewing each bite 32 times (

How do you handle negative self-talk? What helps you overcome self-doubt? Today, Jay sits down with Grammy Award-winning artist Alicia Keys as she shares her journey of self-discovery, resilience, and holistic living. Alicia founded Keys SoulCare, a skincare line emphasizing holistic well-being, and is a co-founder of the initiative She Is the Music, advocating for gender equality in the music industry. The conversation sheds light into Alicia's evolution from a young girl with dreams to an icon balancing a multifaceted career. Jay and Alicia discuss the highs and lows of fame, navigating self-doubt, and the pressures of public life, providing listeners with valuable insights on managing stress and fostering a positive self-image. Alicia reflects on her childhood fears and the challenges of finding self-worth, candidly revealing how these experiences shaped her. She emphasizes the importance of staying grounded through practices like affirmations, journaling, and mindful rituals—habits that help her stay true

Are you open to just being friends with an ex? Do you think they want the same kind of friendship? Today, Jay’s diving into a question we've all probably wrestled with at some point: can you really stay friends with an ex? He kicks things off by laying down some ground rules, pointing out that not every ex is friendship material, especially if there was any toxicity or harm in the relationship. For those open to trying a platonic bond post-breakup, he highlights the real-life complexities and the level of emotional maturity it takes to make it work. Jay also brings in some interesting science, sharing that studies show people stay connected with their exes for reasons like security, convenience, keeping things civil, or even unresolved feelings. But each of these reasons can get messy, and Jay explains that often, the urge to stay friends might have more to do with wanting a sense of safety or familiarity than with genuine friendship. In this episode, you'll learn: How to Decide if an Ex Deserves Friendship H

How do you usually handle stress? Have you tried hypnosis for stress? Today, Jay with Dr. David Spiegel, a leading expert in psychiatry and behavioral sciences, to explore the transformative power of hypnotherapy. Dr. Spiegel, with over 45 years of experience in clinical and research fields, shares profound insights into the science behind hypnosis, dispelling myths and misconceptions. He explains how hypnosis is a natural, self-directed process that allows individuals to tap into heightened focus, manage pain, reduce stress, and address deep-seated traumas. The conversation begins with Dr. Spiegel explaining the foundations of hypnosis, highlighting its ability to narrow one’s focus, similar to a telephoto lens, and create a dissociative state where one can temporarily suspend self-limiting beliefs. This unique focus enables users to challenge habitual thoughts and reframe experiences. Dr. Spiegel shares real-life success stories, such as a war veteran who found peace with traumatic memories and individuals

Have you ever felt like success affected your dating life? Have you ever felt judged for your level of ambition? Today, Jay addresses the insecurities some men may feel when partnered with highly driven women, shedding light on societal conditioning and personal growth. discusses how societal expectations traditionally placed men in provider roles, which can lead to an unease when faced with a partner who exemplifies drive and independence. Jay also delves into recent studies, such as the "Clooney Effect," showing that most men actually value intelligence and confidence in their partners. By examining these narratives, Jay dispels myths that successful women are inherently intimidating to men. Instead, he encourages ambitious women not to diminish their goals but to seek partners who celebrate and complement their journey. In this episode, you'll learn: How to embrace your ambition without guilt How to address insecurities in your relationship How to balance mutual respect and personal ambition How to seek pa

What does a balanced life look like for you? Are you getting enough time to recharge? Today, Jay engages in a deeply reflective conversation with legendary actor, filmmaker, and writer Tom Hanks. With a career spanning over four decades, Hanks is renowned for his roles in iconic films like Forrest Gump, Saving Private Ryan, Cast Away, and The Green Mile, earning him two Academy Awards. Tom opens up about his unconventional childhood, moving frequently and adjusting to new environments, which shaped his adaptability and taught him the art of letting go. As he reflects on his career, he discusses how he continues to find purpose and depth in his work, emphasizing the joy of collaboration and the importance of staying curious. Together, Jay and Tom discuss how certain locations hold emotional weight, becoming symbols of comfort or life-changing reflection. They also touch on generational wisdom, the role of luck, and finding joy in small, shared experiences. With his characteristic humor and humility, Tom offers

Have you ever regretted not saying something sooner? Do you think holding in your emotions causes stress? Today, Jay takes us on a journey through the principles of the Tell Them Method, explaining that whether it's a simple decision like not wanting to attend an event or a deeper emotion like feeling unappreciated, the key is to directly communicate those feelings to the person involved. He highlights that most of us practice what he calls the "Tell Everyone But Them" method—where we vent to others but avoid speaking directly to the person who needs to hear it. This behavior, Jay argues, not only erodes trust and intimacy in relationships but also traps negative emotions within us, leading to stress and even physical discomfort. Jay uses relatable anecdotes and insights from research to underline the significance of expressing emotions in a healthy way. He discusses how bottled-up emotions can lead to passive-aggressive behavior, overreactions, and even health problems. By directly telling people how we feel

Have you ever tried different ways to get rid of belly fat? Have you ever tried different ways to suppress your appetite? Today, Jay welcomes women’s health expert, bestselling author, and podcast host Dr. Mindy Pelz to discuss how women can optimize their health, particularly through fasting, hormones, and metabolic health. Dr. Pelz explains the biological differences between men and women and emphasizes the importance of understanding the female body's rhythms and cycles for maintaining health and hormonal balance. Dr. Pelz begins by discussing common fasting mistakes, highlighting how doing the same fast daily can slow down metabolism. She introduces the concept of "feast-famine cycling," stressing the need for variety in fasting durations and windows, particularly for women. According to her, fasting must be adapted to the individual’s lifestyle and, for women, their menstrual cycle. She also addresses Jay’s personal approach to fasting and offers tailored advice for him, including when to eat before and

Do you find yourself thinking about your ex often? What has been the hardest part of moving on for you? Today, Jay taps into the emotional complexities of getting over an ex and provides actionable steps to move forward. Drawing on insights from neuroscience and psychology, Jay explains why it's entirely normal to struggle with letting go of a past relationship, even if it's been months or years. The emotional pain we experience after a breakup, he explains, is comparable to drug withdrawal, highlighting the deep biological connections we form with our partners. One of the most impactful ideas Jay shares is that clinging to the past steals energy and time from the future. By ruminating over what could have been, we rob ourselves of the opportunity to build new experiences and relationships. Ultimately, Jay’s message is clear: while it's natural to struggle with letting go, the key to healing lies in breaking old patterns, embracing new habits, and shifting our focus toward growth. If you or someone you know i

Have you ever struggled with guilt or shame? Why do you think self-forgiveness is so hard? Today, Jay sits down with the incredibly talented and resilient Jelly Roll, a Grammy-nominated Nashville native who has captured hearts with his raw, soulful music. Rising from a troubled past marked by addiction, incarceration, and personal struggles, Jelly Roll has turned his life around through music, earning widespread acclaim for his deeply emotional lyrics and raw storytelling. With a top-three debut on the Billboard 200 and multiple awards to his name, His music resonates with those facing hardship, offering a message of hope, redemption, and healing. Jelly Roll shares his powerful journey from a turbulent past—marked by addiction, incarceration, and emotional struggles—to becoming one of the most celebrated figures in country music today. Together, they explore topics like the impact of childhood trauma, battling demons, overcoming addiction, and the importance of love and healing in personal transformation. Jel

Have you ever struggled to change a habit? Do you think forcing someone to change ever works? Today, Jay dives deep into one of the most frequently asked questions: Can people really change? Drawing from a mix of personal stories, scientific research, and spiritual wisdom, Jay sheds light on the complexities of human behavior, how change unfolds, and why it can often seem so elusive. One of the key insights Jay offers is the distinction between acknowledgment and accountability. Many people acknowledge they need to change, but accountability—taking full responsibility for how their actions impact others and making a concrete plan to improve—is much harder to achieve. Without this deeper level of self-awareness and commitment, lasting change remains out of reach. Jay provides practical advice for those navigating relationships with people who seem resistant to change. He outlines key signs to look for that indicate someone is truly ready to change, including self-awareness, accountability, and a genuine desire