On Purpose With Jay Shetty

Have you ever thought about taking a solo trip? What do you think you'd learn about yourself if you traveled alone? Today, Jay unpacks the unexpected benefits of solo travel. Whether you’re an avid traveler or someone hesitant to step out of your comfort zone, traveling alone, even just once, can be one of the most powerful experiences of your life.  Jay explains how solo travel helps break free from the “herd mentality”—when we defer to the preferences of those around us—and instead allows us to deeply understand our own desires and needs. You’ll learn how traveling alone can expand your worldview, teach self-reliance, and push you to explore not just new places but new aspects of yourself. In this episode, you'll learn: How to Expand Your Worldview  How to Boost Self-Reliance How to Connect with New People and Cultures How to Build Confidence Through Solo Travel Whether you're seeking new perspectives or personal growth, traveling alone can be a powerful tool to reconnect with your true self. With Love and

What are your emotional needs? How do you communicate them clearly? Today, Jay welcomes back Dr. Nicole LePera, a holistic psychologist, best-selling author, and founder of the SelfHealers Circle, a global community for self-healing. She is the author of the New York Times bestseller "How to Do the Work," and her latest book, "How to Be the Love You Seek," guides readers on breaking cycles, finding peace, and healing relationships. Dr. LePera is known for her approachable, transformative approach to mental wellness, empowering individuals to heal themselves and live authentically. Nicole talks about how our earliest experiences shape our adult relationships. She explains the concept of trauma bonds—dysfunctional patterns that often stem from childhood but persist into adulthood, affecting how we connect with others. These bonds can feel familiar and even comforting, but they often prevent us from forming healthy, fulfilling relationships. Jay and Nicole explore how awareness is the first step toward breaking

What lessons have you learned from your past 12 months? How have your goals evolved over the past months? Today, Jay reflects on the 12 key lessons he has learned over the past year. He begins by discussing the idea that the seeds we plant—our actions and intentions—manifest as either flowers or weeds, the importance of pursuing meaningful actions for personal fulfillment rather than external validation, and how to distinguish between setting goals and choosing growth, underscoring that genuine progress requires a commitment to personal development rather than simply aiming for outcomes. The episode highlights the importance of protecting one's purpose from external distractions and maintaining a clear focus on one's path, the challenges we face as opportunities to grow into who we're meant to be, and the concept of defining experiences proactively to shape our own narratives rather than letting circumstances dictate our identities. In this episode, you'll learn: How to handle envy with love How to act for fu

Are you struggling to overcome your past trauma? Are you looking for ways to heal from it? Today, Jay sits down with renowned reggaeton artist and songwriter Nicky Jam. Nicky's music career took off after a series of successful mixtapes and collaborations with other artists, including Daddy Yankee, with whom he formed the iconic duo Los Cangris. His work has earned him international fame and multiple awards, establishing him as a major influence in the reggaeton and Latin trap genres.  Nicky recounts his first foray into music, packing groceries and freestyling at a supermarket, which inadvertently launched his career despite his young age and the informal nature of his work. He opens up about the difficulties of his upbringing, including his mother’s struggle with substance abuse and prostitution, shaping his understanding of normalcy and family life. This background set the stage for his initial break into the music industry, where early rejections and setbacks paved the way for his eventual success in the

Do you feel unproductive? How can you boost your daily productivity? Today, Jay talks about how to become productive without feeling burned out. In a world where productivity often leads to burnout, Jay offers practical and transformative strategies to help you achieve more while reducing stress. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by an endless to-do list or struggling to manage your time effectively, this episode provides the tools you need to reclaim your focus and energy.  Jay shares the importance of creating a workspace that fuels productivity and how subtle changes, like scent and sound, can enhance your environment. He also highlights the significance of workplace trust and how identifying whether an issue is people- or system-related can save you time and energy. He wraps up with insights on "monk mode," a method to achieve deep focus in the midst of distractions, and encourages listeners to experiment with these principles to find what works best for them.. In this episode, you'll learn: How to focus

What's a simple negotiation trick you can try today? How can you get better at persuading others? Today, Jay welcomes former FBI lead international kidnapping negotiator and author of "Never Split the Difference", Chris Voss. He is renowned for his innovative negotiation strategies that emphasize empathy, emotional intelligence, and tactical communication. After retiring from the FBI, Voss founded The Black Swan Group, a consultancy firm that provides negotiation training for businesses and individuals. He is also a popular speaker and has taught negotiation at various business schools. Chris discusses his journey from being on a SWAT team to becoming a lead FBI negotiator. He shares that his career path changed after a knee injury and his growing interest in crisis response led him to hostage negotiation where he found the work more satisfying than his previous roles, emphasizing the importance of decisive action in crises. Chris and Jay discuss how human beings are naturally wired to be negative as a surviv

How did you realize they weren't the one for you? How did you cope with the heartbreak? Today shares a detailed exploration of the emotional journey involved in recognizing and accepting that someone you once believed was "the one" for you, wasn't actually the right person. Often, it’s common for people to convince themselves that someone is the perfect partner, even before that person has committed or shown signs of being a suitable match. This can lead to heartbreak when the relationship fails, but  it’s okay because the person wasn't truly right for them either. Jay also discusses the importance of understanding whether the person was truly healed from past wounds or whether they were presenting a version of themselves that wasn’t authentic. Consider the idea that sometimes people stay in relationships out of fear of being alone rather than genuine love or connection. And if a partner is unable or unwilling to engage in meaningful conversations, they might not be the right person. In this episode you'll le

How do you help your children build confidence? How do you teach your kids to be resilient? Today, Jay welcomes Dr. Aliza Pressman. Aliza is a developmental psychologist with nearly two decades of experience working with families and healthcare providers. She is the host of the Raising Good Humans podcast and an expert in parenting strategies and child development. Dr. Pressman is also the author of The Five Principles of Parenting: Your Essential Guide to Raising Good Humans, where she offers practical advice and insights for parents looking to raise emotionally resilient and well-rounded children.  Aliza begins by discussing whether everyone should become a parent and emphasizes the importance of being intentional and reflective before making that decision. She suggests that potential parents should think about their own values and how they want to approach parenting. She explains that having a strong, secure bond with a child is crucial for their development and that this bond can evolve over time, even if

How often do you check your phone daily? Do you feel anxious when you’re away from your phone? Today, Jay addresses the growing concern of excessive phone and internet usage, exploring its detrimental effects on mental and physical health. He begins by explaining how activities like swiping, liking, and commenting on social media provide our brains with dopamine hits, which can create a cycle of dependency and compulsive behavior. Despite the benefits of technology, such as increased connectivity and access to information, many people feel less connected and more distracted, anxious, and impatient. Jay elaborates on the neurological aspects of dopamine and its role in pleasure-seeking behaviors, emphasizing that problems arise when we expect constant rewards from our online activities. He draws parallels between the brain's response to food and its response to digital consumption, advocating for a balanced approach that avoids overindulgence in either. In this episode, you'll learn: How to become more conscio

How can you start letting your guard down in love? How can you become more open and vulnerable in your relationships? Today, let's welcome Alexis Ren and Allie Michelle. Alexis is a model, entrepreneur, and social media influencer with over 18 million followers on Instagram. Known for her advocacy of mental health and self-empowerment, Alexis has leveraged her platform to promote wellness and personal growth. She is also the co-founder of "We Are Warriors," a female-driven wellness community focused on fostering self-love, strength, and growth among women worldwide.  Allie is a bestselling author, spoken word artist, and certified yoga, breathwork, meditation, Reiki, and craniosacral therapist. She is passionate about holistic health and personal development, which she incorporates into her work. The duo are the co-founders of "We Are Warriors," a female-driven wellness community focused on fostering self-love, strength, and growth among women worldwide.  Alexis and Allie's friendship began when they were pre

How does unresolved trauma impact your life? How can you rewire your brain to overcome trauma? Today, in the On Purpose podcast, Jay sits down with actress and LGBT advocate, Laverne Cox. Laverne’s groundbreaking performance on "Orange Is the New Black" made her the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award. In addition to her acting career, Laverne Cox has been involved in various advocacy and awareness campaigns, making her a significant figure in the ongoing struggle for transgender and LGBTQ+ rights. Her work has contributed to greater visibility and acceptance of transgender individuals in the entertainment industry and society at large. In this episode, Laverne and Jay dive deep into transgender rights, media representation challenges, and how empathy can make a big difference in our divided world. They also discuss how fake news and false information on the internet can be a problem and why learning how to spot them is crucial.  Laverne also shares personal experiences

How do you deal with negative people close to you? How do you stay positive around negative people? Today, Jay welcomes Robert Greene, known for his bestsellers like "The 48 Laws of Power" and "The Daily Laws." Robert's works draw on historical figures and events to provide insights into the dynamics of power and social influence. His books are often used as guides for personal development, leadership, and understanding the complexities of human interactions.  Robert shares tips on dealing with negative people, emphasizing the importance of emotional distance and understanding that everyone has their flaws and shares his thoughts on the idea that our sense of self is just a mental construct, and real enlightenment comes from letting go of our egos. He also stresses the importance of questioning your beliefs to truly understand who you are and what you’re meant to do in life.  Followed by Jay and Robert's discussion on why it's more important to judge people by their character rather than their intelligence or

What’s blocking you? What’s holding you back? Today, Jay talks about the concept of self-sabotage, examining how it manifests in various aspects of our lives and offering strategies for overcoming it. Self-sabotage is defined as behaviors that undermine our own success, happiness, and stated goals. These actions often occur subconsciously, rooted in deep psychological patterns formed during early childhood. Jay outlines four primary ways people self-sabotage: chronic lateness, procrastination, putting oneself down, and perfectionism. He also discusses the habit of putting oneself down, which can manifest through over-apologizing or refusing to take credit for accomplishments. This behavior is often linked to low self-esteem or an internalized critical voice from childhood. In this episode, you'll learn: How to Recognize Self-Sabotage How to Stop Putting Yourself Down How to Change Negative Self-Talk How to Understand Your Triggers How to Set Boundaries By understanding and working through these patterns, you

What was your biggest challenge after hitting rock bottom? How did you manage to overcome your failures? Today, let's welcome the one and only Fat Joe, a renowned American rapper and music industry executive. He began his music career in the early 1990s and quickly gained recognition with his debut album "Represent" in 1993, featuring the hit single "Flow Joe." Fat Joe has played a crucial role in promoting other artists, notably Big Pun, who achieved significant success before his untimely death. His journey from the streets of the Bronx to international stardom is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and enduring impact on the world of hip hop. Fat Joe provides an honest look at the gritty realities of his early life, including hustling for money and living through dangerous encounters. He shares how the aggressive nature of hip hop initially required him to hide his true, more personable self behind a tough exterior. However, he credits the genre for saving his life and offering a legitimate path out o

What do you look for in a partner? What do you think makes a relationship interesting? Today, let's talk about the disparity between what people say they want in a partner — traits like kindness, empathy, and thoughtfulness — and what they often find themselves attracted to, which may be more superficial qualities like physical attractiveness. Jay references research from the Pew Research Center to highlight that 35% of men value physical attractiveness most in women, while 33% of women value honesty and morality most in men. He discusses how societal pressures and media influence shape these preferences and often lead people to prioritize the wrong traits, which can result in unsatisfying relationships. Additionally, Jay addresses the issues of men looking for nurturing qualities in women, sometimes in an unhealthy, maternal sense, and the pressure on men to achieve professional and financial success. He also touches on the societal expectations and challenges faced by successful women who feel they need to

What’s your go-to nutrition hack? Is it truly beneficial for your body’s health? Today, let's welcome Elissa Goodman, a renowned integrative holistic nutritionist known for her expertise in cleansing and nutrition. She has gained recognition for her personal journey of overcoming significant health challenges, including cancer and autoimmune issues, which inspired her to take control of her health and help others do the same. Elissa has developed her own kitchen cleanse program, which delivers nourishing and healing foods directly to people's homes. Elissa explains the concept of cleansing, which is often misunderstood as deprivation and starvation. Her approach focuses on nourishment and reducing inflammation through a diet rich in a variety of vegetables and plant-based foods. She describes the benefits of her cleanses, which help people reset their bodies, improve digestion, and enhance overall well-being. Jay and Elissa also significance of habits such as regular blood work, proper sleep, meditation, and

Do you have a cause you want to pursue? How do you give back to your community? Today's guests are two very purpose-driven women behind the Baby2Baby, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing basic necessities to children living in poverty across the United States. Let's welcome Baby2Baby Co-CEOs Norah Weinstein and Kelly Sawyer Patricof. Since its inception, Baby2Baby has grown into a $80 million organization serving over 1 million children annually by distributing essential items such as diapers, formula, and clothing.   Norah and Kelly share their personal motivations and backgrounds, with Norah’s commitment rooted in her childhood and reinforced during her pro bono work as a lawyer, and Kelly’s passion stemming from her volunteer work with children during her modeling career. Their mission is driven by the immediate and tangible needs of the communities they serve, highlighting how even basic items like diapers can make a significant difference in the lives of children and their families. The duo e

Do you often remember your dreams?   What was the last dream you can remember?   Today, let's welcome Dr. Rahul Jandial. Rahul is a dual-trained brain surgeon and neuroscientist based at City of Hope in Los Angeles. He leads the Jandial Lab, which explores the intersection of neurobiology and cancer. Beyond his research, Dr. Jandial is dedicated to global health, performing pediatric neurosurgery in charity hospitals across South America and Eastern Europe. He is also the author of the book "This Is Why You Dream," which delves into the science and significance of dreaming.   Jay and Rahul explore the significance of dreams and their impact on our lives, and that the brain is highly active during sleep, generating as much electricity as when awake. This activity suggests that dreaming is not a passive process but an essential function for the brain, helping it process and rehearse experiences, emotions, and creativity.   There are common themes in dreams, such as nightmares, erotic dreams, and motifs like fal

Do you believe in "right person, wrong time"? Do you have realistic expectations about dating? Today, Jay will discuss the popular notion of the "right person at the wrong time." He explains that this idea often stems from nostalgia, which can distort our memories by emphasizing the positive aspects of past experiences and minimizing the negatives. This romanticized view of the past can prevent us from addressing present realities and hinder our ability to form healthy relationships. Jay also talks about the various factors that influence relationships, such as a person's relationship status, goals, and healing journey. He argues that a person's current circumstances, such as being newly single or single for a long time, significantly shape who they are and their readiness for a relationship. Furthermore, in a healthy relationship, partners should respect and support each other's goals rather than expecting complete alignment. He also highlights the importance of patience and mutual support in the ongoing pro

Are you a perfectionist?  Do you ever spend time alone in silence?  Today, Jay sits down with Melinda French Gates, co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and founder of Pivotal Ventures to talk about her journey from studying computer science at Duke University to working at Microsoft, and eventually transitioning into philanthropy. Melinda highlights the importance of goal setting and quiet reflection, practices instilled in her from a young age; the challenges women and people of color face in achieving equality, emphasizing the need for more inclusive policies and support systems; and the importance of diverse representation in leadership and decision-making roles. Melinda shared insights into her parenting approach, emphasizing the importance of instilling values of kindness, responsibility, and giving back to society. She also shared her journey of grappling with the decision to publicly support contraceptive access, which conflicted with her Catholic faith. This decision involved deep reflec