I was thinking recently about how being bullied as a child for being overweight may have helped shape my life’s work.

And on yesterday’s episode of On Purpose, I sat down with the extraordinary Jake Shane, named one of TIME’s 100 most influential creators of 2025, to talk about why the hardest relationship to navigate is often the one we have with ourselves. And I shared a bit about my own journey growing up.

Listen or Watch on:

At one point, I asked Jake the question:

What would younger you think?

The more I thought about that question afterwards, the more I realised that everyone hears it a little differently, and therefore answers it a little differently.

When you read that question, how does your mind fill in the ending?

What would younger you think about…

  • your work?

  • your current relationship?

  • the way you handled your latest challenge?

  • the life you have built?

Pay attention to the first ending your mind supplies, or the first answer that arises.

That may be the part of your life where you are most worried you have let yourself down.

Or it may be the part you are most proud to have created.

Either way, what comes up first is worth paying attention to.

Watch the whole episode now on Netflix or Spotify, and read to the end of today’s email to hear one thing I believe my younger self would say to me now.

With love and gratitude,
Jay ❤️

On Purpose

We all face moments when comparison, self-doubt, or the opinions of others begin to shape how we see ourselves. The conversation I had with Jake Shane is an invitation to reconnect with who you are beneath the pressure, and to remember that your worth has never depended on perfection or applause. Together, we unpack what it takes to stay grounded when your life is constantly on display and why the hardest relationship to navigate is often the one you have with yourself.

Listen or Watch on:

Today’s Takeaway

I was overweight growing up, and I was bullied often because of it. That experience helped shape me. It’s part of why I’ve spent so much of my professional life sharing lessons about kindness and empathy, and so much of my private life working on myself: learning to eat well, stay active, and care for my physical health.

When I think about my younger self, I imagine he might say, “You were worthy of kindness then, and you are worthy of it now.”

Reply now and tell me: What would your younger self say to you today?

Thanks for reading! See you back here tomorrow. ❤️

The content in this newsletter is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as, and must not be taken as, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Nothing in this newsletter creates, or is intended to create, a physician–patient or other healthcare professional–patient relationship. You should always consult a qualified physician or other licensed healthcare provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition, your health, or any treatment options, and before starting, changing, or stopping any medication, treatment, or wellness program. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read in this newsletter.

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