On Purpose With Jay Shetty

In this first episode of On Purpose with Radhi, Jay opens up a conversation many of us have faced but rarely unpack, being asked, “When are you having kids?” What seems like a casual question often carries a weight that touches on biology, cultural expectations, financial realities, and deeply personal struggles. Together, Jay and Radhi peel back the layers of why this question can feel so triggering, especially for women, and why the assumptions behind it often miss the heart of the matter. They explore how family pressure, societal timelines, and even social media comparisons can make people feel like they’re “behind,” while statistics actually show that having children later in life has become the norm. From the challenges of IVF and miscarriages to the fear of balancing career and motherhood, Jay and Radhi shed light on the unspoken realities couples quietly carry. They remind us that true preparation for parenthood isn’t about perfect timing, it’s about awareness

Do you have a quick way to reset when you’re overwhelmed? What’s something you wish worked better when you try to reset? Today, Jay introduces a simple yet powerful 7-Day Micro Habit Reset, a series of small, intentional habits to help you pause, realign, and begin again with a clear mind and a calm heart. If you’ve been feeling drained, distracted, or disconnected from your goals, Jay reminds us that meaningful change doesn’t come from completely reinventing your routine, it starts with the small, mindful shifts you make every day. Each habit is grounded in science, simplicity, and self-awareness. Jay explores how small practices, like expressing gratitude, taking a moment to reflect, or even embracing brief moments of discomfort, such as a 20-second cold rinse, can reset your energy, shift your perspective, and build emotional resilience. From writing just one sentence in your journal to checking in with your “future self,” these micro habits help you reclaim the calm and

When was the last time you felt truly at ease with someone? Do you feel that kind of ease often, or was it rare? In this special live episode recorded at the DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C., Jay sits down with bestselling author and therapist Lori Gottlieb to explore the hidden dynamics that shape our relationships. Together, they unpack why so many of us feel the need to “perform” for love and how fear of rejection, perfectionism, and old emotional patterns can quietly erode connection. Lori shares how true intimacy begins with acceptance, not just of our partners, but of ourselves, and why showing up authentically is the only way to feel genuinely seen. Through humor, warmth, and real audience interactions, Jay and Lori dive into topics like vulnerability, emotional safety, and the balance between “me time” and “we time.” They share how to stop trying to fix or control your partner, how to communicate without defensiveness, and how to build relationships rooted

Have you ever felt totally off but couldn’t explain why? Did you ever figure out what was causing it? Today, Jay sits down with Dr. Sara Szal, a Harvard- and MIT-trained physician, researcher, and bestselling author, to dive into a topic that affects everyone but rarely gets the attention it deserves: hormones. Together, they break down what hormones really are, how stress and daily habits can throw them off balance, and why understanding these powerful chemical messengers can completely transform the way we think about health. Dr. Sara shares how simple changes, from better sleep and mindful eating to managing stress, can help reset your body’s natural rhythm in just a few days. This is a conversation that beautifully bridges science and self-awareness, revealing just how deeply our biology and emotions are connected. Jay and Dr. Sara also explore one of today’s most misunderstood topics: women’s health and birth control. Dr. Sara explains how the pill, though widely used, can disrupt

Do you ever get stuck in your thoughts? What do you usually overthink about? Today, Jay explores one of the most powerful, yet regularly overlooked, conversations we have every day: the one we have with ourselves. Too often, we become our own harshest critics, speaking to ourselves in ways we’d never speak to a friend. Jay reveals how self-criticism can disguise itself as control or accountability, when in truth, it’s a subtle form of self-sabotage that quietly erodes our confidence, creativity, and motivation. Jay reminds us that rest and reflection aren’t signs of weakness, they’re essential parts of real growth. He explains that progress is never a straight line, and that falling back, slowing down, or taking a break doesn’t mean you’ve failed, it simply means you’re human. His message is a gentle yet powerful invitation to stop tearing yourself down and start lifting yourself up, to trade shame for accountability, criticism for compassion, and restlessness for sti

How do you know when you’re ready to commit? Do you think love alone is enough? Marriage isn’t a destination, it’s a daily practice. It’s the ongoing choice to show up, grow, and recommit to each other through every season of change. In this special compilation, Jay brings together powerful insights from Jada Pinkett Smith, relationship coach Sadia Khan, psychotherapist Lori Gottlieb, and his own reflections with Radhi. Together, they explore how lasting love isn’t built on fleeting chemistry, but on emotional resilience, self-awareness, and the courage to evolve, side by side. Jada shares how marriage can be a spiritual journey, where your partner reflects both your light and your flaws, guiding you toward unconditional love and deeper healing. Sadia reveals the often-overlooked truths about infidelity, self-control, and discipline, reminding us that love cannot thrive without trust. Lori highlights the power of honest communication, from setting boundaries with in-laws to havin

Have you ever stayed in a relationship just to avoid being alone? Did staying make you feel better or worse over time? Today, Jay sits down with writer and relationship coach Quinlan Walther to explore what it truly means to build healthy, lasting relationships. Quinlan, known for her viral reflections on love and self-trust, explains the difference between wanting a relationship and being ready for one. She compares it to grocery shopping when you’re hungry, a reminder that desperation often drives us to make poor emotional choices. Together, they explore how self-awareness, emotional safety, and self-trust form the foundation for a genuine connection. Quinlan introduces her “Four C’s of Self-Trust”: curiosity, capacity, compassion, and commitment, a framework for strengthening one’s relationship with the self before seeking partnership. Jay and Quinlan confront the hard truths about modern love, how expectations, attachment wounds, and emotional burnout often distort our percep

Do you believe in manifestation? What are you currently manifesting? Manifestation isn’t about magic, shortcuts, or wishing something into existence, it’s about clarity, belief, and intentional action. In today’s episode, Jay unpacks the biggest myths around manifestation and explains why vision boards, affirmations, and journaling alone often leave us feeling stuck or unfulfilled. Instead, he shows us how to set clear goals, pair affirmations with real action, and create systems that actually move us forward. Through practical steps and powerful research, Jay reshapes our understanding of manifestation, not as wishful thinking, but as the alignment of our thoughts, words, and actions. He reveals why positivity without effort quickly falls flat, how struggle signals growth rather than failure, and why surrender can be an act of wisdom instead of passivity. Jay shows us how to actively create the life we imagine. Whether your pursuit is abundance, purpose, or simply the courage to take the ne

What does rejection feel like to you? What do you usually do to move past that feeling? Today, Jay sits down with legendary filmmaker and comedian Judd Apatow for a vulnerable and inspiring conversation on life, creativity, and resilience. Known for shaping modern comedy with films like The 40-Year-Old Virgin and Knocked Up, Judd opens up about the struggles behind the success, sharing how self-doubt, early failures, and rejection shaped him into the storyteller he is today. He reflects on the power of mentorship, the lessons he learned from icons like Gary Shandling, and why finding your voice often requires patience, humility, and a willingness to fail forward. Together, Jay and Judd explore how comedy can be both healing and revealing, born not just out of joy but often out of pain. Judd talks about the risks he took, the creative experiments that didn’t work, and how those “failures” became stepping stones toward lasting impact. He reveals how therapy, mindfulness, and even family dynami

Today, Jay sits down with Malala Yousafzai to uncover the woman behind the global symbol of courage and education. From the very start, Jay sets the tone with an intention rooted in empathy, to help people not just know Malala, but understand her. Together, they revisit her extraordinary journey, from growing up in Pakistan’s Swat Valley under Taliban rule to surviving an assassination attempt at fifteen. Malala shares what it was like to wake up in a hospital far from home, and how she slowly began to realize that the world had already decided who she was before she could decide for herself. As the conversation unfolds, Malala opens up about the emotional aftermath of her survival, the years spent trying to live up to the image of bravery the world created for her while quietly struggling with fear, trauma, and loneliness. She reflects on how therapy helped her begin to process the pain she had long suppressed, and how rediscovering humor, friendship, and love became essential parts of her healing. Mal

Do you ever feel behind in life? What are you comparing yourself to? Today, Jay shares a powerful reminder for anyone who feels like they’re behind in life. Maybe you’re comparing your career path to a friend’s promotion, your relationship status to someone’s engagement photos, or your lifestyle to highlight reels on social media. Jay explains how natural it is to feel this way, especially after school, when the timelines that once kept us moving together begin to split apart. Drawing on social comparison theory, he shows how easily our self-worth can become tied to where others seem to be, instead of honoring the unique path we’re on. Jay reframes the idea of being “behind,” not as a failure but an essential part of growth. Through psychology and real-life examples, he emphasizes that endings matter more than beginnings, and that setbacks are not signs of weakness, but proof that we’re actively building resilience. He challenges our attachment to comfort, which

How do you usually deal with stress? Does it help you feel better, or just distract you for a while? Today, Jay welcomes globally recognized nutritionist and corporate wellness strategist Mona Sharma to share her inspiring journey from corporate burnout to holistic healing. Mona opens up about her personal health struggles; two heart surgeries, chronic stress, and years of misalignment, that ultimately led her to rediscover the healing practices she grew up with in the ashram. Mona explains how returning to yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, and mindful nutrition helped her reclaim her health and purpose, transforming her pain into a mission to guide others toward vitality. Together, Jay and Mona explore how true wellness goes beyond diets and quick fixes. Mona emphasizes the importance of addressing root causes rather than just symptoms, teaching us that healing requires nervous system regulation, emotional awareness, and holistic nourishment. They discuss the link between stress and disease, how lifestyle choices

What’s the hardest part about letting go? What helped you start healing after that? Today, Jay sits down with Grammy Award–winning artist Cardi B for a rare and intimate conversation that reveals the woman behind the spotlight. From an early age, Cardi carried big dreams and an unshakable belief that she was meant for more. She opens up about the quiet moments she spent planning her future, the determination that pushed her beyond the challenges of her upbringing, and the resilience that continues to drive her today. Cardi reflects on how those experiences not only fueled her success but also shaped her greatest mission, creating a better life for her children. Together, Jay and Cardi dive into the complex balance between success and struggle, from the weight of constant scrutiny to her most vulnerable battles with depression and the pain of being misunderstood. Cardi opens up about the loneliness she’s faced, the toll of public criticism, and how she found the strength to rise again when li

Do you say yes too often? When was the last time you said no? In this special live episode recorded at an iHeart event in New York City, Jay Shetty reflects on his journey from speaking to empty rooms to sharing ancient wisdom with millions around the world. He reveals how reframing adversity helps us face life’s “first arrows” without adding the extra pain of self-criticism, and the daily practices that keep him grounded through challenge. With powerful stories, from a Navy SEAL finding purpose through On Purpose while on deployment, to a young cheerleader who radiates joy despite paralysis, Jay shows how resilience and perspective can transform even our hardest moments into sources of strength and growth. Jay breaks down what it really means to make “wisdom go viral” and why presence, not time, is the key to deeper connection. He shares the courage it takes to say no to protect your energy, how to keep your soul at the center in an AI-driven world, and the creativity that unloc

Is there something from childhood you still carry? How do you think it still affects you today? In this special compilation episode of On Purpose, Jay revisits some of the most transformative conversations on trauma, healing, and resilience. Featuring insights from Dr. Gabor Maté, John Legend, Oprah Winfrey, Dr. Bruce Perry, and Anitta, Jay uncovers how unaddressed wounds can quietly shape the way we live, and more importantly, how we can begin the journey toward understanding, growth, and true healing. From Dr. Gabor Maté’s wisdom on the unseen toll of suppressing our authentic selves, to John Legend’s candid reflections on grief and loss, each conversation uncovers a unique layer of what it means to hold pain and still pursue growth. Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Bruce Perry invite us to shift the question from “What’s wrong with me?” to “What happened to me?”—a powerful reframe that transforms shame into compassion. Anita’s story of releasing inhe

How do you find peace daily? What keeps you going in hard times? Today, Jay sits down with Madonna for a rare and intimate conversation that goes beyond her iconic career into the spiritual foundation that has carried her through life’s greatest challenges. For nearly 30 years, Madonna has walked a spiritual path that has shaped her resilience, fueled her creativity, and defined her sense of purpose. Madonna opens up about what first drew her to seek deeper meaning, the practices that became her lifeline, and why she believes spirituality has been the true key to her strength, longevity, and fulfillment. Together, Jay and Madonna dive into themes of transformation, the search for meaning in suffering, the freedom that comes with radical acceptance, and the power of forgiveness to heal our deepest wounds. Madonna shares the moments that tested her most, from loss and betrayal to near-death experiences, and how each challenge became an opening for growth when she chose to see it through the lens of purpos

Have you ever felt taken for granted by a friend? Do you find yourself always making the effort? Today, Jay dives into the delicate line between real and fake friendships, revealing the subtle cues that help us identify who truly has our best interests at heart. He explains that genuine friends honor your boundaries, celebrate your authenticity, and encourage your growth, while superficial friends may pressure you into compliance, keep score, gossip, or feel threatened by your success. Drawing on psychological insights around attachment styles, envy, and social debt, Jay highlights how friendship dynamics are less about labeling people as good or bad, and more about recognizing behaviors that either uplift or drain us. Jay reminds us that true friendship is grounded in honesty, generosity, and shared growth. Real friends don’t keep score, they celebrate your wins as their own and stand beside you through every change. Most importantly, Jay challenges us to reflect on how we show up for others, emphasizi

Do you think fame makes people happy? Would you give up money for peace of mind? Today, Jay sits down with Emma Watson, actress, activist, and UN Women Goodwill Ambassador, for a rare and deeply personal conversation. Beloved around the world as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter films, Emma has since become a powerful voice for gender equality and sustainability. In this exclusive interview, Emma reflects on her decision to step away from Hollywood and shares how time for study and self-discovery has allowed her to redefine success, find fulfillment, and reclaim her voice. Emma shares the challenges of growing up in the public eye, carrying enormous responsibility from such a young age, and the courage it took to step back from a thriving career to prioritize her health and personal growth. She reflects on how fame blurred the lines between who she was and the roles she played, and how learning to embrace vulnerability, discomfort, and imperfection has become central to her growth. Together, Jay and Emma e

Do you ever feel lost? What usually helps you find your way back? Today, Jay sits down with @HealthyGamerGG (Dr. K), psychiatrist, meditation teacher, and author of How to Raise a Healthy Gamer, for an eye-opening conversation about why so many young people feel lost and disconnected in today’s world. Together, they uncover the hidden struggles millions face: loneliness, confusion, and the constant pressure of feeling “behind in life,” even when everything looks fine on the outside. Dr. K shares how shifting milestones and rising societal pressures have fueled an epidemic of uncertainty, leaving many to question their worth, direction, and identity. Together, Jay and Dr. examine how ego, technology, and external expectations shape the way we see ourselves. Drawing on neuroscience, psychology, and Eastern philosophy, Dr. K explains how the constant search for validation traps us in cycles of comparison and self-criticism. He offers practical tools for breaking free, learning to tell the diffe

What’s the biggest shift you wish you’d made sooner? What advice would you give your younger self before 30? In this special reflection, Jay opens up about the lessons he wishes he’d known before turning 30, insights that could have spared him time, energy, and unnecessary stress. Now, at 38, he shares eight counterintuitive truths from psychology and human behavior that have reshaped the way he lives, loves, and works. From realizing that people think about us far less than we imagine, to understanding that burnout comes more from a lack of meaning than from long hours, Jay invites us to reexamine the subtle habits and hidden fears that quietly drain our lives. These aren’t just ideas, they’re practical tools to help you stop overthinking, release old fears, and make choices that align with the life you truly want. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to Rely on Discipline Over Motivation How to See Most Fears as Echoes of the Past How to Use Belonging to Fuel Lasting Change