Jay Shetty: The Monk Who Turned Wisdom Into a Global Podcast Movement
- Sep 18
- 3 min read
By She Rises Studios
When Jay Shetty launched his podcast On Purpose in 2019, he had a simple mission: to make wisdom go viral. Today, his voice resonates with millions worldwide, guiding listeners toward clarity, purpose, and transformation. As a former monk turned storyteller and life coach, Shetty bridges the gap between ancient practices and modern challenges, creating a platform where timeless truths meet everyday struggles. In doing so, he has become one of the most recognizable voices in personal development and a leading force in the podcasting space.
Shetty’s journey into podcasting is as unique as his life story. Born in London to Indian parents, he followed an unconventional path in his early twenties by living as a monk in India for three years. Immersed in meditation, service, and spiritual study, he discovered that fulfillment comes not from possessions but from purpose. Yet, when he returned to the Western world, he recognized that many people longed for meaning but didn’t have access to the tools he had learned in the ashram. His mission became clear: share those teachings in a way that was relatable, practical, and inspiring.
On Purpose became the perfect vessel. Each episode combines Shetty’s thoughtful reflections with interviews featuring thought leaders, celebrities, scientists, and entrepreneurs. What makes the show stand out is his ability to weave profound lessons into accessible conversations. Whether discussing mindfulness with Oprah Winfrey, resilience with Kobe Bryant, or happiness with Brené Brown, Shetty draws out insights that feel personal and actionable. Listeners often walk away with not just inspiration but also tools they can immediately apply to their own lives.
What truly sets Shetty apart is his gift for storytelling. His background as a monk gave him a reservoir of ancient wisdom, but his skill lies in translating that wisdom into stories people can see themselves in. He speaks the language of both the spiritual seeker and the busy professional, bridging two worlds that rarely intersect. That blend of depth and relatability is why On Purpose has consistently ranked among the most downloaded podcasts globally.
Beyond the podcast, Shetty has become a cultural force. His bestselling books, Think Like a Monk and 8 Rules of Love, expand on the principles he shares on air, offering readers a deeper dive into topics like mindfulness, relationships, and identity. His viral motivational videos, watched by billions, further extend his reach, proving his message resonates across platforms and generations.
Whether on a podcast, a stage, or a social media feed, Shetty remains committed to one guiding principle: using his voice to help others grow.
For National Self-Improvement Month, Jay Shetty’s impact underscores how a single podcast can become a lifeline for transformation. Listeners often describe how his episodes have helped them through breakups, career changes, or moments of self-doubt. By normalizing conversations about mental health, purpose, and personal growth, he has turned the act of listening into a form of daily self-care. On Purpose is more than entertainment—it is a community where people come to feel seen, guided, and empowered.
Shetty’s story also highlights an important truth for creators and leaders alike: transformation doesn’t require reinventing the wheel. Sometimes it’s about repackaging timeless wisdom in a way that meets people where they are. In a world saturated with noise, he offers not just another voice, but a vision—a vision of a society where self-awareness, compassion, and growth are not exceptions but norms.
As we celebrate “Voice & Vision” this month, Jay Shetty embodies the essence of what it means to use a platform for good. His evolution from monk to global podcaster reminds us that purpose can be found in sharing our unique experiences, and that even a single voice has the power to create ripples of change across the world.
Comments