From Monk to Media
Jay Shetty didn’t start out in media or business. After graduating from business school in the UK, he chose an unexpected path: he spent three years living as a monk in India. He practiced meditation for hours daily, studied ancient philosophy, and lived without possessions. That experience changed how he viewed success, purpose, and contribution. When he returned to London, his goal was simple: share what he had learned with people who wouldn’t normally access that kind of wisdom.
Making Ancient Wisdom Practical
Shetty has repeatedly said that his goal is to make timeless wisdom accessible in modern life. Rather than focusing on quick tips or superficial advice, his content draws from spiritual traditions, psychology, and behavioral science. Whether it’s a video on letting go of comparison or a podcast about communication in relationships, the goal is the same: help people live with more clarity, intention, and compassion.
Turning Purpose Into a Platform
In 2016, Shetty began creating short, motivational videos online. Within a year, he gained over one billion views across platforms. He quickly became known for blending storytelling with practical insight, often drawing from personal experiences or ancient texts. As his following grew, so did his mission—to use digital media as a force for positive change. That mission led to the launch of the On Purpose podcast in 2019, which now features conversations with leaders, authors, artists, and scientists from around the world.
Focusing on Service, Not Just Success
Shetty’s guiding principle is service. He’s said that whether he’s interviewing a celebrity or posting a solo video, his content is designed to serve people—not just entertain them. This approach has helped him stand out in the crowded wellness space. While many creators focus on personal branding, Shetty returns often to the question: “How can I help someone today?”
Building Brands With a Message
In addition to his content work, Shetty has co-founded several ventures that align with his values, including a wellness coaching school and a tea company called Sama Tea. Each project is designed to blend entrepreneurship with meaning. Rather than creating products for profit alone, Shetty focuses on brands that support mindfulness, connection, and personal growth.
Staying Consistent With His Mission
Despite growing a global audience, Shetty’s message hasn’t changed. His books—Think Like a Monk and 8 Rules of Love—carry the same tone and teachings as his early videos. He often reminds listeners that success without peace isn’t success at all. By keeping his mission central, he has built a platform that reaches millions while remaining grounded in purpose.
Conclusion
Jay Shetty’s work isn’t just about content—it’s about commitment. Every video, interview, and brand he creates is rooted in the same mission: to make wisdom practical and service personal. In a fast-moving digital world, he stands out by staying steady in his purpose. His journey shows that when content is guided by meaning—not metrics—it can become something far more powerful and lasting.
