ON

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

iHeartPodcasts

Dr. Lisa Miller: Feeling Lost, Stuck or Anxious? (Use THIS Spiritual Framework to Finally Move Forward With Clarity)

May 18, 20261h 31m
Summary

In this episode, host Jay Shetty sits down with psychologist and Columbia University professor Dr. Lisa Miller to explore the intersection of science and spirituality. Dr. Miller challenges the outdated notion that science and spiritual life are mutually exclusive, presenting research that suggests spirituality is an inborn human capacity with distinct neurological circuits. She explains that rather than a belief system, spirituality is a fundamental, hardwired perception that allows individuals to experience life as something they are loved, held, and guided through. The conversation delves into the protective benefits of spiritual awareness, citing data that indicates a strong spiritual life can significantly reduce the risks of depression, addiction, and suicide. Dr. Miller and Shetty discuss the concept of viewing life not just through "achieving awareness"—a strategy-based approach to success—but through "awakened awareness," where one remains open to the universe’s guidance during moments of struggle. Through guided meditations and personal stories, they illustrate how to navigate life’s "stuck" moments, suggesting that every challenge serves as an invitation to discover a more fulfilling, inspired path. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to honor their inner wisdom and embrace a life of active, meaningful contribution.

Updated Jul 1, 2026

About This Episode

What if the hardest moments in your life weren’t there to break you, but were actually pointing you toward who you’re meant to be?

Today, Jay sits down with renowned psychologist, Columbia professor, and bestselling author Dr. Lisa Miller to explore the powerful intersection of science and spirituality. Together, they unpack one of the most transformative ideas of our time: that spirituality is not reserved for the religious or the enlightened, it is an innate human capacity wired into every one of us. Through groundbreaking neuroscience, Dr. Lisa reveals how our brains are biologically designed to perceive that we are loved, guided, and never truly alone. Jay and Lisa invite us into a new way of living, one where anxiety, heartbreak, disappointment, and uncertainty are no longer viewed as signs that we’ve lost our way, but as invitations into deeper spiritual awakening.

Throughout the episode, Jay and Lisa share profoundly personal reflections on life’s “red doors” and “yellow doors”, the moments when what we desperately wanted fell apart, only to lead us somewhere far more aligned, meaningful, and expansive than we could have imagined. Through intimate stories, spiritual practices, and powerful meditations, they explore how intuition, synchronicity, and inner knowing can guide us toward our true path when we finally learn to listen. Jay opens up about protecting his purpose, discovering his calling beyond societal expectations, and the courage it takes to trust the quiet voice within. Lisa beautifully reframes suffering not as punishment or failure, but as the very catalyst that awakens us to greater love, wisdom, and purpose. This episode is a reminder that some of the greatest breakthroughs in life begin with the moments that break us open.

In this episode you'll learn:

How to Listen to Your Inner Wisdom

How to Turn Pain Into Spiritual Growth

How to Recognize Signs the Universe Is Sending You

How to Feel Guided When Life Feels Uncertain

How to Stop Ignoring Your Intuition

How to Stay Spiritual in a Busy, Modern World

How to Strengthen Your Spiritual Awareness Daily

How to Navigate Depression Through a Spiritual Lens

Maybe the answers you’ve been searching for aren’t outside of you, but in the quiet voice you’ve been too busy, too hurt, or too afraid to trust. Life won’t always go as planned, but sometimes the detours, disappointments, and closed doors are leading you somewhere deeper than success, toward a life that feels aligned, meaningful, and true.

To grab a copy of Lisa’s latest book, The Awakened Brain: The New Science of Spirituality and Our Quest for an Inspired Life, visit https://www.amazon.com/Awakened-Brain-Science-Spirituality-Inspired/dp/198485562X 

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty

JAY’S DAILY WISDOM DELIVERED STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX

Join 900,000+ readers discovering how small daily shifts create big life change with my free newsletter. Subscribe https://news.jayshetty.me/subscribe  

Check out our Apple subscription to unlock bonus content of On Purpose! https://lnk.to/JayShettyPodcast 

What We Discuss:

00:00 Intro

00:58 You Were Never Meant to Walk Alone

03:14 Why This Generation Is Craving Spirituality

05:24 The Life-Changing Benefits of Spirituality

06:11 The Hidden Link Between Spirituality and Depression

08:32 What Does it Mean To Be Spiritual?

10:46 The Shift That Makes Life Feel Inspired Again

17:05 When Life Stops Being a Plan and Becomes an Adventure

20:07 The Part of You You’ve Been Ignoring

21:19 The Missing Piece in Mental Health

22:23 The Two Ways You Actually Know Something

25:04 Why Your Purpose Isn’t Something You Find

29:09 How to Finally Hear Your Inner Voice

36:10 What It Feels Like to Touch Something Higher

40:51 Anxiety As A Catalyst 

43:52 What If Nothing in Your Life Is Random?

46:52 Learning to Trust Yourself on a Deeper Level

51:32 The Unexpected Path That Leads to Love

56:21 The Habit That’s Making You More Judgmental

57:10 Different Beliefs, One Aligned Relationship

01:02:53 The Subtle Sign You’re With the Wrong Person

01:04:59 The Truth About Money and Meaning

01:05:55 The Mistake That Keeps Spiritual People Broke

01:07:16 Why You Feel Stuck (And How to Get Back Into Flow)

01:10:20 How to Actually Ask for Guidance

01:13:06 The Real Source of Energy, Peace, and Clarity

01:14:15 The Awareness You Were Born With

01:16:16 What Happens When Kids Lose Their Intuition

01:18:08 Why Your Home Shapes Your Spiritual Life

01:21:35 Spirituality vs. Religion: What’s the Difference?

01:24:30 Why a Strong Spiritual Core Changes Everything

01:27:29 Lisa on Final Five 

Episode Resources:

Website | https://www.lisamillerphd.com/ 

Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/dr.lisamiller/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to On Purpose with Jay Shetty in Podtastic

For listeners, not advertisers

More Episodes

Layla Taylor EXCLUSIVE: The Truth She's Finally Ready To Share

Jun 29, 202657 minSummary

In this episode, television personality Layla Taylor joins Jay Shetty for a deeply personal and candid conversation about her journey toward self-discovery and authenticity. Known for her presence on reality television, Layla uses this space to speak publicly for the first time about her sexuality, identifying as bisexual. She reflects on the challenges of growing up in a predominantly white community, where she struggled to find representation and felt immense pressure to suppress her true identity to fit in. Layla discusses the complexities of her upbringing, including her conversion to the Mormon Church as a teenager, which she explains was a pursuit of the family structure and belonging she craved. She also opens up about the toxic dynamics of her past marriage, detailing how the fear of becoming a single mother initially kept her in an unhealthy situation. Throughout the conversation, Layla emphasizes how the responsibility of motherhood has become a catalyst for her own growth, inspiring her to embrace her heritage and speak her truth. The episode serves as a powerful testament to the importance of self-love, the courage required to break free from societal expectations, and the liberation that comes from finally living authentically.

If You Can't Stop Thinking About Your Ex, Do This (The Path To Real Closure)

Jun 26, 202624 minSummary

In this episode of On Purpose, the discussion centers on the common struggle of seeking closure after a painful breakup. Many people find themselves stuck in a cycle of replaying past conversations, stalking an ex on social media, and searching for the perfect explanation that might ease their suffering. The episode clarifies that the brain often craves this resolution to reduce cognitive discomfort, yet the search for external closure rarely leads to healing and often generates more questions. The core insight offered is that true closure is an internal process, not something that can be granted by another person. By practicing "no contact," individuals can begin to regulate their nervous systems and shift focus back to self-discovery and internal emotional safety. Practical advice includes writing down feelings to process them, prioritizing personal growth, and focusing on facts rather than the often-distorted narratives the brain creates when romanticizing the past. Ultimately, healing comes from accepting the reality of the situation and choosing to build a life centered around one's own potential rather than waiting for an elusive apology from an ex-partner.

John Mackey: Not Sure You're on the Right Path In Your Career? (Use THIS Framework When You Feel Lost About What's Next)

Jun 24, 20261h 2mSummary

In this episode of On Purpose with Jay Shetty, John Mackey, the co-founder and former CEO of Whole Foods Market, shares deep insights into his personal evolution as a business leader and spiritual seeker. Reflecting on his journey, Mackey discusses his philosophy of Conscious Capitalism, emphasizing that the keys to sustainable success and employee retention are rooted in purpose and love rather than just profit. Throughout the conversation, Mackey touches on his experience with the hero’s journey, explaining how he reframed professional challenges and setbacks as essential learning opportunities. He explores his spiritual development, which was influenced by his early encounters with existential philosophy and psychedelics, leading him to a profound understanding of ego death. Mackey argues that when individuals stop identifying strictly with their ego and material circumstances, they gain the freedom to view life as a dream they can consciously shape. The discussion highlights how integrating spiritual growth with professional ambitions can lead to a more fulfilling, authentic life, encouraging listeners to trade envy for curiosity and to prioritize their inner development as a means to achieve greater peace and external impact.

Dr. Jill Biden: The Hardest Moments No One Saw (The Untold Story of the White House Years)

Jun 22, 202659 minSummary

In this episode of On Purpose with Jay Shetty, Dr. Jill Biden joins the host for an intimate conversation about the resilience, intentionality, and private moments that have defined her life. Moving beyond her public role as First Lady and educator, Dr. Biden reflects on the unpredictable journey that led her to the White House, beginning with her early life, her initial marriage, and eventually her long-standing partnership with Joe Biden. Central to the discussion is the deep intentionality she brought to blending their family, prioritizing the emotional well-being of Joe’s sons, Beau and Hunter, following the loss of their mother. Dr. Biden opens up about the challenges of life in the public eye, including personal tragedies and political pressures, and explains how she maintains balance by living in twenty-four-hour cycles and practicing compartmentalization. She also shares personal wisdom on the importance of family traditions, the value of financial independence, and the profound power of being truly present for those you love. This episode offers an engaging, heartfelt look at a woman who has navigated immense complexity with grace, humor, and unwavering strength.

Stop Waiting to “Figure It Out!” (Do THIS In The Next 48 Hours to FINALLY Take the First Step in Finding Your Purpose)

Jun 19, 202624 minSummary

In this episode of On Purpose with Jay Shetty, the host explores the transformative potential of the hours following a nine-to-five workday. Shetty argues that while a primary job pays the bills, the time spent between five and nine in the evening determines personal growth and future success. He contends that many people feel stuck not due to a lack of ambition, but because of decision fatigue and an overstimulated nervous system that leads to passive habits like mindless scrolling. Shetty outlines five specific shifts to help listeners reclaim their evenings and build a more fulfilling life. These include interrupting autopilot patterns with intentional first moves, batching life-maintenance tasks to reduce friction, and taking action regardless of one's current mood. He also emphasizes the importance of setting a single, meaningful goal each night to avoid burnout and selecting activities that truly restore energy rather than merely providing temporary distraction. Ultimately, the discussion focuses on replacing passive habits with consistent, small actions, arguing that persistent effort during ordinary weeknights is the key to achieving long-term goals and building genuine self-confidence.

Always “Too Tired” After Work? 5 Shifts to Optimize Your 5–9 and Finally Build the Life You Want

Jun 19, 202624 minSummary

In this episode, the host explores why so many people feel stuck despite working hard, arguing that the true architect of one’s future is not the nine-to-five job, but how one spends the five-to-nine hours afterward. Many people struggle with decision fatigue and overstimulation, leading to an evening cycle of passive consumption and exhaustion. The episode emphasizes that building the life you want requires moving away from reliance on fleeting motivation and toward structured systems. The host outlines five essential shifts to reclaim your evenings: changing your immediate environment after work, batching life-maintenance tasks, acting despite a lack of motivation, setting one meaningful daily goal instead of overcommitting, and engaging in activities that genuinely restore your energy. By distinguishing between restorative rest and unproductive numbing, listeners can cultivate habits that foster growth rather than burnout. Ultimately, the discussion highlights that small, repeatable actions performed during ordinary evenings are the key to building competence, confidence, and long-term success. The host encourages listeners to view their time as a tool for creating the future they desire, rather than merely a period to recover from the workday.

Emilie Kiser EXCLUSIVE: The Loss That Changed Her Forever

Jun 17, 20261h 3mSummary

In this deeply moving episode, Emilie Kiser joins Jay Shetty for an intimate and courageous conversation about the profound loss of her son, Trig. Moving beyond the curated life often seen on social media, Kiser opens up about the devastating reality of navigating grief following a preventable drowning accident. She shares the raw, minute-by-minute struggle of life in the immediate aftermath of such a tragedy, emphasizing that there is no roadmap or "finish line" for the loss of a child. Throughout the discussion, Kiser reflects on the heavy burden of public scrutiny and the emotional toll of experiencing private agony in the spotlight. She addresses the guilt and self-blame that accompany such a loss, noting that no outside judgment could ever surpass the pain she already carries. Despite this, she highlights the importance of her support system and the necessity of finding small, manageable intentions to keep moving forward for her surviving son, Teddy. Ultimately, Kiser seeks to transform her painful journey into advocacy, hoping to raise awareness about child safety and prevent other families from enduring similar heartbreak.

Dr. Ramani: If You're Thinking About Going No Contact With a Family Member - Listen to THIS (How to Know If It's Time To Walk Away)

Jun 15, 20261h 25mSummary

In this episode, clinical psychologist Dr. Ramani Durvasila joins the podcast to discuss the complex and often misunderstood topic of going no contact with family members. As a leading expert on narcissistic relationships, Dr. Ramani explores why this decision, once considered unthinkable, is becoming increasingly common in modern society. She explains that no contact is not a one-size-fits-all approach; it ranges from punitive measures taken in anger to necessary acts of self-protection for those enduring toxic or abusive family dynamics. A central theme of the conversation is the distinction between healthy, boundaries-based decisions and impulsive, retaliatory ones. Dr. Ramani highlights how individuals often arrive at this choice only after years of attempted repairs, gaslighting, and the slow erosion of their authentic selves. She emphasizes that no contact is often a last resort intended to preserve mental health and physical safety. The discussion also covers the societal stigma and shame surrounding estrangement, providing listeners with a roadmap for identifying when a relationship has become untenable. Ultimately, the episode serves as a guide for anyone struggling with feelings of guilt, grief, or doubt when choosing to step away from harmful family patterns.

The Simple Question That Makes Every Decision Easier (Use THIS Daily Framework To FINALLY Get Unstuck)

Jun 12, 20261h 17mSummary

In this episode of On Purpose with Jay Shetty, Shetty sits down with Melissa Wood-Tepperberg to discuss the essential practices for maintaining inner peace and clarity amidst a chaotic world. The conversation centers on the concept of stillness—not merely as an external absence of noise, but as the ability to remain immovable in one’s values and convictions. A central insight shared during the discussion is the "Seeds and Weeds" framework. This tool encourages individuals to evaluate their intentions and actions by categorizing them as either seeds that foster growth, joy, and purpose, or weeds that represent ego, jealousy, and limiting beliefs. By consistently auditing their choices, listeners can learn to cultivate a healthier mental garden. The hosts also explore the importance of listening to one’s inner voice, noting that this voice often gains strength through courage and consistent practice. They touch on the necessity of prioritizing mental well-being as a foundation for effective parenting and professional success. Ultimately, the episode serves as a guide for breaking cycles of stress, reframing past hardships into sources of resilience, and staying committed to one’s highest self.

Riz Ahmed: How to Silence Your Inner Critic (And Build REAL Self Worth)

Jun 10, 20261h 26mSummary

In this episode, actor and artist Riz Ahmed joins Jay Shetty for an intimate conversation about the challenges of navigating public identity, the exhausting nature of validation-seeking, and the pursuit of genuine self-worth. Ahmed discusses his recent project, which explores the tension between who we are in private and the versions of ourselves we perform for the world. He candidly reflects on his own journey, noting that even with significant professional milestones, external markers of success often fail to provide deep, soulful nourishment. The two explore the concept of living life as a constant audition, a feeling amplified by modern social media culture where visibility often equates to value. They discuss the importance of finding a middle ground between being too rigid with personal expectations and becoming detached. Ahmed shares pivotal childhood experiences that shaped his relationship with performance and identity, ultimately advocating for a state of flow—those rare, precious moments when one forgets the self entirely. The episode concludes with a thoughtful reflection on the difference between seeking external praise and the internal liberation found in making an offering through one's art.

All podcast names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Podcasts listed on Podtastic are publicly available shows distributed via RSS. Podtastic does not endorse nor is endorsed by any podcast or podcast creator listed in this directory.