In this episode, we explore the cultural phenomenon and philosophical roots of main character energy, both its empowering promise and its dark underside.
Sparked by a moonlit conversation in Hanoi, this episode unspools into many threads.
We talk about:
- What main character energy really means (and why it matters)
- How to find joy and agency even in the absurd… yes, we’re talking The Myth of Sisyphus
- The dark side of performance and Western privilege
- Travel, language, culture, and why no one is just a “side character”
- Martin Buber’s I-It vs. I-Thou, Simone Weil on attention, and how to live with radical presence
- And the ultimate plot twist: But you’ll have to listen to hear this one
This episode is both an invitation to live boldly and a gut-check on ego and empathy.
Plus, a beautiful little cameo by some of my friends on what makes them feel like the main characters in their own lives.
Thank you to Annie, Maatai, Claire, Tiaan, and Henry.
____________
Let’s Stay Connected:
📕 Buy my book — Untethered: A Beginner’s Guide To Solo Travel
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!