The Monk Who Became a Media Icon: Jay Shetty's Life

Jay Shetty: A Journey from Monkhood to Media Influence

Background and Early Life

Jay Shetty’s story begins in London, where he spent his childhood. Facing challenges early on, Jay was bullied for being overweight and considered nerdy.

Tragically, at 16, he experienced the profound loss of two friends—one in a car accident and the other to gang violence. These events profoundly shaped his perspective on life.

Transition to Monkhood

At 18, meeting with a monk redirected Jay’s life path. He chose to pursue a life of service, impact, and passion, setting aside the lures of money, fame, and power.

Jay excelled academically and graduated with a 1st class BSc (Hons) Degree in Behavioral Science from Cass Business School.

At 22, he made a life-altering decision to become a monk, spending three years in India and Europe. His monastic life was rigorous, marked by early mornings, cold showers, simple meals, and extensive daily meditation.

Shetty immersed himself in meditation and the study of Eastern philosophies and sciences.

“You start projecting hurt and pain onto yourself when you don’t find closure. Be honest with the situation and yourself, clean the wound, and move on.” ~ Jay Shetty

Philanthropic and Teaching Endeavors as a Monk

Jay’s time as a monk wasn’t just about personal growth but also about giving back. He was crucial in building sustainable villages and food programs, which distributed over a million meals daily.

Additionally, he coached millennials worldwide, focusing on consciousness, well-being, and success.

Career After Monkhood

Returning to London, Jay faced a period of readjustment. He lived with his parents, penniless, for nine months. However, his unique experiences and insights soon found an audience.

Jay became a sought-after company speaker, sharing productivity insights and applying monk teachings to the workplace. His talents were recognized at Accenture, where he served as a Social Media coach for executive online branding and digital strategy.

“Solitude is the strength of being alone. It’s where we become our best company.” ~ Jay Shetty

Rise in Media and Online Presence

The year 2016 marked a turning point as Jay launched a video channel that exploded in popularity, amassing over 4 billion views and 20 million followers globally.

Jay Shetty’s role as a host on HuffPost Live #FollowTheReader, where he interviewed celebrities, reached 1 million people daily.

His creative content spanned Snapchat, Facebook, National Geographic, Nasdaq, and HuffPost.

Forbes recognized his media influence, naming him in their 30 Under 30 Class of 2017. After moving to New York in September 2016, he established a viral video agency and collaborated with major brands.

Shetty’s blogging skills earned him the ITV Asian Media Award for Best Blog in 2016 and third place in the Guardian Rising Star Award in 2015.

Philosophy and Influence

Jay’s mission has been to make wisdom go viral. He’s known for his ability to blend knowledge with entertainment, captivating audiences with his storytelling and creating viral content.

Personal Background

Jay Shetty was born, September 6, 1987, in London, in a Hindu family in Barnet, North London, with his parents and a younger sister. His multicultural background includes a Gujarati mother from Yemen and a Tuluva father from Karnataka, India.

Jay Shetty attended Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet, before heading to Cass Business School, City University of London.

“If you can build a muscle, you can build a mindset.” ~ Jay Shetty

Career Beginnings and Monk Experience

Jay’s life was significantly influenced by Gauranga Das, a monk he met at business school. He spent four summers in India, interning at corporations and training with the Hare Krishna movement. His monkhood, which lasted three years, was spent in a Mumbai ashram.

“When you are looking to be validated by others, you are living according to their values, not yours.” ~ Jay Shetty

Professional Career

After becoming a monk, Jay joined Accenture, focusing on digital strategy and social media coaching.

Shetty produced videos for the Huffington Post, primarily on relationship topics, and interviewed various public figures. Co-founding Icon Media with Alex Kushneir, he expanded his media footprint.

In 2021, he launched Sama Tea with his wife, Radhi Devlukia, inspired by Ayurveda. In 2022, Jay became the Chief Purpose Officer at Calm, a meditation product company.

Awards and Recognition

Jay’s contributions haven’t gone unnoticed. He’s received numerous accolades, including recognition on the National Geographic Chasing Genius Council 2017 and the Asian Media Awards 2016 Best Blog.

Shetty also won awards at the 2016 ITV Asian Media Awards and the 2018 Streamy Awards, among others.

Podcasting and Writing

In 2019, Jay launched the podcast “On Purpose,” which became the number one health podcast globally. The podcast saw 64 million downloads in its first year.

Jay Shetty is also a published author, with works like “Think Like a Monk” and “8 Rules of Love: How to Find It, Keep It and Let It Go,” both of which have enjoyed significant success.

Personal Life

Jay now lives resides in Los Angeles with his wife, Radhi Devlukia Shetty. He is part of the ownership group of Angel City FC of the National Women’s Soccer League.

Controversy

In 2019, Jay faced plagiarism accusations, leading to the removal of 113 posts from Instagram. Since then, he has become more diligent with attribution.

Professional Identity and Impact

As a bestselling author, award-winning podcast host, and viral content creator, Jay Shetty’s wisdom videos have garnered over four billion views and attracted more than 50 million subscribers globally.

Jay Shetty has influenced many individuals, inspiring many to pursue coaching careers.

Philosophy and Approach

Jay believes in the universal sharing of wisdom and transforming lives through the discovery of meaning and purpose.

Jay advocates techniques that foster wisdom, joy, satisfaction, happiness, and eternal love.

“Knowledge is power, and it can help you overcome any fear of the unexpected. When you learn, you gain more awareness through the process, and you know what pitfalls to look for as you get ready to transition to the next level.” ~ Jay Shetty

Monastic Life and Training

Jay’s monastic life involved a disciplined routine of early mornings, cold showers, simple eating, and extensive meditation.

Shetty studied Eastern philosophies and sciences, seeking their applications in the modern world.

Coaching Approach and Goals

Jay’s coaching is characterized by presence, deep listening, empathy, focus, and the ability to understand unspoken elements.

Jay Shetty is committed to transferring his knowledge and experience to aspiring coaches, driven by a commitment to purpose and service to others.

“If you know what you need, you will find the answers when you read.” ~ Jay Shetty

Jay Shetty: Key Points and Facts

Background and Early Life

Born and raised in London.
Faced bullying in childhood for being overweight and nerdy.
Lost two friends at age 16, one in a car accident, another due to gang violence.

Transition to Monkhood

Met a monk at 18, changing his life’s direction.
Pursued service, impact, and passion over money, fame, and power.
Graduated with a 1st class BSc (Hons) in Behavioral Science from Cass Business School.
Became a monk at 22, living in India and Europe for 3 years.
Lived a rigorous life: waking at 4am, cold showers, simple eating, 4-8 hours meditation daily.
Studied eastern philosophies and sciences, and practiced meditation in extreme environments.

Philanthropic and Teaching Endeavors as a Monk

Helped build sustainable villages and food programs, distributing over 1 million meals per day.
Coached millennials globally on consciousness, wellbeing, and success.

Career After Monkhood

Returned to London, spent 9 months reacquainting with the world.
Became a speaker at companies, sharing monk teachings.
Worked at Accenture as a Social Media coach.

Rise in Media and Online Presence

Launched a video channel in 2016 with over 4 billion views and 20 million followers.
Hosted HuffPost Live #FollowTheReader, interviewing celebrities.
Created content for Snapchat, Facebook, National Geographic, Nasdaq, and HuffPost.
Named in Forbes 30 Under 30 Class of 2017.
Moved to New York in 2016, created a viral video agency.

Philosophy and Influence

Aims to make wisdom go viral, combining knowledge with entertainment.
Known for storytelling and creating viral content.

Personal Background

Born on 6 September 1987 in London, England.
Grew up in a Hindu family with parents and a younger sister.
Attended Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet, and Cass Business School, City University of London.

Career Beginnings and Monk Experience

Influenced by monk Gauranga Das at business school.
Spent summers in India with Hare Krishna movement.
Lived as a Vedic monk for three years in Mumbai.

Professional Career

Worked at Accenture on digital strategy.
Produced videos for Huffington Post.
Co-founded Icon Media, a video production company.
Launched Sama Tea in 2021.
Joined Calm as Chief Purpose Officer in 2022.

Awards and Recognition

Recognized on National Geographic Chasing Genius Council 2017.
Asian Media Awards 2016 Best Blog winner.
Awards at 2016 ITV Asian Media Awards and 2018 Streamy Awards.
Outstanding Achievement Online Award at The Asian Awards 2019.
Best in Health & Wellness at the 11th Shorty Awards 2019.

Podcasting and Writing

Launched “On Purpose” podcast in 2019, number one health podcast globally.
“On Purpose” downloaded 64 million times in the first year.
Published “Think Like a Monk” and “8 Rules of Love” books.

Personal Life

Lives in Los Angeles with wife, Radhi Devlukia Shetty.
Part of Angel City FC of the National Women’s Soccer League.

Controversy

Accused of plagiarizing quotes in 2019, leading to Instagram post removals.
Became more diligent with attribution post-accusation.

Professional Identity and Impact

Recognized as a bestselling author, podcast host, and viral content creator.
His videos have over four billion views and 50 million subscribers globally.

Philosophy and Approach

Believes in sharing wisdom universally.
Emphasizes life transformation through meaning and purpose.
Advocates for techniques fostering wisdom, joy, satisfaction, happiness, and love.

Monastic Life and Training

Chose monk life at 22, after college.
Lived a disciplined life with meditation and simple living.
Studied eastern philosophies for modern world applications.
Dedicated to personal growth and helping others.

Coaching Approach and Goals

Known for presence, deep listening, empathy, and focus in coaching.
Aims to transfer knowledge to aspiring coaches.
Driven by commitment to purpose and service.

Jay Shetty

Early Years and Education

1987: Born on 6 September in London, England.
Childhood: Faced bullying for being overweight and nerdy.
Age 16: Lost two friends, one in a car accident and another due to gang violence.
Education: Attended Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet. Graduated from Cass Business School, City University of London.

Monkhood and Spiritual Journey

Age 18: Met monk Gauranga Das, influencing his outlook towards selflessness and minimalism.
Summers in College: Spent four summers in India, interning and training with the Hare Krishna movement.
Age 22: Became a Vedic monk, living in an ashram in Mumbai, India for three years.
Monk Life: Adopted a disciplined lifestyle with early morning wake-ups, meditation, and simple living.

Philanthropy and Teaching as a Monk

Involved in building sustainable villages and food distribution programs.
Coached millennials globally on various life aspects.

Career After Monkhood

Post Monkhood: Returned to London, spent time readjusting to normal life.
Became a corporate speaker, sharing monk teachings in the workplace.
Worked at Accenture as a Social Media coach.

Rise in Media and Online Presence

2015: Placed 3rd in the Guardian Rising Star Award.
2016: Launched a video channel, gaining massive global following.
Hosted HuffPost Live #FollowTheReader.
Created content for major platforms like Snapchat and Facebook.
Won the ITV Asian Media Award for Best Blog.
2017: Named in Forbes 30 Under 30 Class.
Recognized on the National Geographic Chasing Genius Council.
2018: Received awards at the Streamy Awards.

Recent Achievements and Personal Life

2019: Launched “On Purpose” podcast, becoming a global health podcast leader.
Faced and overcame plagiarism accusations.
2021: Launched Sama Tea with wife, Radhi Devlukia.
2022: Joined Calm as Chief Purpose Officer.
2023: Published “8 Rules of Love,” a New York Times best-seller.
Currently resides in Los Angeles with his wife.

Philosophy and Professional Impact

Recognized as a bestselling author, award-winning podcast host, and viral content creator.
Advocates for the sharing of wisdom and transformation of lives through purpose.
His videos have over four billion views and 50 million subscribers worldwide.
Coaches individuals on presence, deep listening, empathy, and focus.

Lessons from Jay Shetty’s Life

Overcoming Challenges and Building Resilience

Jay Shetty’s early life in London was marked by difficulties. He faced bullying for being overweight and considered nerdy. More so, he endured the loss of two close friends at a young age.

These experiences, though painful, teach us about resilience. Jay’s journey shows that overcoming personal challenges can lead to strength and character development.

This lesson is crucial for young people: tough times can shape us into stronger individuals.

Pursuit of Purpose Over Material Success

At 18, Jay met a monk who profoundly influenced his life, steering him towards a path of service and passion rather than chasing money, fame, and power.

He chose to become a monk and live a life of simplicity and meditation.

This decision highlights the importance of finding one’s purpose and following it, even if it means going against societal norms or expectations.

Jay’s life underscores that true fulfillment often comes from serving others and seeking inner peace, rather than solely pursuing material success.

Continuous Learning and Sharing Knowledge

One of the most significant aspects of Jay Shetty’s life is his commitment to learning and sharing his knowledge.

As a monk, he studied eastern philosophies and sciences, and later, as a coach and speaker, he shared these insights with others.

Jay Shetty transition from learning to teaching shows the value of continuous self-improvement and the importance of sharing wisdom.

Jay’s life reminds us that education is a lifelong journey and that we can all make a positive impact by sharing our knowledge and experiences with others.

Questions and Answers

Frequently Asked Questions About Jay Shetty

What is Jay Shetty’s Background?

Born and Raised: Jay was born on September 6, 1987, in London, England.
Early Challenges: As a child, he faced bullying for being overweight and nerdy.
Tragic Loss: At 16, Jay lost two friends—one in a car accident and another due to gang violence.

How Did Jay Shetty Become a Monk?

Meeting a Monk: At 18, he met a monk who influenced him to change his life’s direction.
Choosing Monkhood: After graduating with a 1st class BSc (Hons) in Behavioral Science from Cass Business School, he became a monk at 22.
Monk Lifestyle: Jay lived in India and Europe for 3 years as a monk, adopting a lifestyle of early waking, meditation, and simple living.

What Did Jay Shetty Do as a Monk?

Philanthropy: He was involved in building sustainable villages and food programs.
Coaching and Teaching: Jay coached millennials worldwide on consciousness, wellbeing, and success.

What Did Jay Shetty Do After Monkhood?

Career Transition: He returned to London and spent 9 months reacquainting with the world.
Professional Speaker: Jay became a speaker at companies, applying monk teachings to the workplace.
Social Media Coach: He worked at Accenture as a Social Media coach for executive branding and digital strategy.

How Did Jay Shetty Rise in Media and Online Presence?

Video Channel: In 2016, he launched a video channel, gaining over 4 billion views and 20 million followers.
Host and Creator: He hosted HuffPost Live #FollowTheReader and created content for major platforms.
Forbes Recognition: Jay was named in Forbes 30 Under 30 Class of 2017 for his media influence.

What Are Jay Shetty’s Awards and Recognitions?

National Geographic Council: Recognized on the Chasing Genius Council in 2017.
Asian Media Awards: Won Best Blog in 2016 and received other awards in 2018 and 2019.

What About Jay Shetty’s Podcasting and Writing?

Podcast: Launched “On Purpose” in 2019, becoming the top health podcast globally.
Books: Published “Think Like a Monk” and “8 Rules of Love,” which were very successful.

What is Known About Jay Shetty’s Personal Life?

Family: Jay lives in Los Angeles with his wife, Radhi Devlukia Shetty.
Sports Involvement: He is part of the ownership group of Angel City FC of the National Women’s Soccer League.

Has Jay Shetty Faced Any Controversy?

Plagiarism Accusations: In 2019, he was accused of plagiarizing quotes, leading to the removal of some Instagram posts. He has since been more careful with attribution.

What is Jay Shetty’s Professional Identity and Impact?

Recognition: He is a bestselling author, award-winning podcast host, and viral content creator.
Influence: His videos have over four billion views, and he has influenced many individuals across various fields.

What is Jay Shetty’s Philosophy and Coaching Approach?

Beliefs: He believes in sharing wisdom and transforming lives through meaning and purpose.
Coaching Style: Jay’s coaching is characterized by presence, empathy, and deep listening, aiming to help others grow and succeed.

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