Getting Better with Jonathan Van Ness

Leah Thomas, author of The Intersectional Environmentalist, stopped by Getting Better to help us get a grip on how we can be sustainable from home, understand why environmental justice IS social justice, and why joy should be at the center of all activism.

Leah Thomas is an award-winning environmentalist based in Los Angeles. A passionate advocate for the often-overlooked intersection between social justice, environmentalism, and culture, her work is shaped through the lens of eco-feminism. She is the author of the bestselling The Intersectional Environmentalist, a widely taught resource in university classrooms nationwide.

In 2024, Leah founded Green Girl Productions, a media company that produces cultural and community events around environmental and social issues across the country. She is the founder of Intersectional Environmentalist, a groundbreaking non-profit and resource hub, where she currently serves as a board member. Beyond her advocacy, she has also lent her expertise as a climate solutions consultant for major companies like Apple.

As a leading voice in the environmental space, Leah understands how to enact tangible change on a community and societal level by making environmentalism both digestible and accessible. Recognized on Forbes 30 Under 30 List and TIME100 NEXT, Leah is an established public speaker who has presented on prestigious stages including Dreamforce, TED, and Aspen Ideas. In her free time, Leah finds creative expression through crafting as an act of self-care and community-building, and to inspire her audience to embrace more sustainable, hands-on practices.

Full Video Episodes now available on YouTube.

You can follow Leah Thomas on Instagram @greengirlleah.

Follow us on Instagram @gettingbetterwithjvn to join the conversation. Jonathan is on Instagram @JVN.

Our senior producer is Chris McClure. Our editor, engineer, & videographer is Nathanael McClure. Production support from Julie Carrillo, Anne Currie, and Chad Hall.

Our theme music is composed by Chris McClure & Nathanael McClure

Curious about bringing your brand to life on the show? Email [email protected].

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Introducing Deepak Chopra: How to Ask AI The RIGHT Questions To Grow, Heal, and Live a More Fulfilled Life from On Purpose with Jay Shetty.

Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

Do you ever feel like you're just going through the motions?

Do you ever feel lonely even when you're around people?

Today, Jay welcomes back the legendary Deepak Chopra after six years, to discuss the unexpected intersection of spirituality and artificial intelligence. Together they unpack the beautiful blend of ancient wisdom and cutting-edge innovation.

Jay reflects on his first meeting with Deepak and how their bond has evolved over the years. The conversation quickly flows into one of the most fascinating questions of our time: Can AI actually support our spiritual growth, rather than distract from it? Deepak shares his insights on the mysteries of the universe, the unseen forces that shape our reality, and why he believes consciousness, not matter, is the foundation of everything.

Jay and Deepak break down the fears surrounding AI, from misinformation to war, and why it’s so important for us to grow spiritually alongside our technology. They explore how storytelling, creativity, and love are deeply human qualities that no machine can replicate, and how we can use these gifts to shape a better, more compassionate world.

In this interview, you'll learn:

How to Ask AI Better Questions to Unlock Wisdom

How to Use Technology to Support Emotional and Physical Healing

How to Find Purpose Through the Art of Storytelling

How to Train AI to Reflect Inclusivity and Diversity

How to Embrace Consciousness as the Foundation of Reality

How to Create a Sacred Relationship with Technology

Deepak reminds us that the answers we’re looking for often begin with a better question. And with the right mindset, even the most advanced technology can become a tool for inner transformation and collective healing.

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty

Join over 750,000 people to receive my most transformative wisdom directly in your inbox every single week with my free newsletter. Subscribe here. 

Join Jay for his first ever, On Purpose Live Tour! Tickets are on sale now. Hope to see you there! 

What We Discuss:

00:00 Intro

01:41 What If the Universe Is Just a Giant Digital Simulation?

12:36 How to Train AI to Unlock Ancient and Hidden Knowledge

13:39 Blending AI and Spirituality to Understand Consciousness

18:23 Could AI Really Lead to Human Extinction?

22:34 What’s Actually Holding Humanity Back From Progress?

23:37 How the Human Brain Transformed Over Time

26:11 The 2 Things That Set Humans Apart From All Other Species

27:16 Can Technology Lead Us to True Peace and Prosperity?

28:10 Will AI Replace Our Jobs or Unlock Human Creativity?

30:46 Do You Think AI Can Ever Have a Soul?

31:45 The Gender and Racial Bias Hidden in AI Systems

32:33 How to Build More Inclusive and Equitable AI Models

33:32 Why a Shared Vision Can Solve Any Problem We Face

36:13 Would You Trust AI to Know You Personally?

36:57 How You can Use AI to Get Better Sleep

37:29 Can AI Actually Give You Good Relationship Advice?

38:07 How AI Can Help You Find and Nurture Love

38:29 Why Personal Growth Solutions Should Never Be Generic

39:41 Your DNA Holds the Footprints of Human History

42:33 Rethinking the Big Bang: What Science Still Can’t Explain

44:31 Is Everything You See Just a Projection?

47:48 Why Fear of the Unknown Limits Our Growth

48:52 Want Better Answers? Ask Better Questions

51:41 The True Secret to Longevity Isn’t What You Think

54:30 How Your Brain Turns Experience Into Reality

55:08 Why Consciousness Is Still Life’s Greatest Mystery

56:28 The First Question You Should Always Ask AI

58:38 How ChatGPT Can Spark Deeper, More Intelligent Questions

Episode Resources:

Deepak Chopra | Website

Deepak Chopra | Instagram 

Deepak Chopra | TikTok 

Deepak Chopra | Facebook

Deepak Chopra | YouTube

Deepak Chopra | X

Digital Dharma: How AI Can Elevate Spiritual Intelligence and Personal Well-Being

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

This week, we’re talking: deportations under the Alien Enemies Act, the U.K. Supreme Court ruling on the definition of a woman, J.K. Rowling’s Cigar, Nicola Coughlin, and Lady Gaga at Coachella.

Not A Phase.

Trans Lifeline

Follow us on Instagram @gettingbetterwithjvn Jonathan on Instagram @jvn and senior producer Chris @amomentlikechris

New video episodes Getting Better on YouTube every Wednesday.

Our Senior Producer is Chris McClure. Our editor & engineer is Nathanael McClure. Our theme music is also composed by Nathanael McClure. Production support from Julie Carrillo, Anne Currie, and Chad Hall.

Curious about bringing your brand to life on the show? Email [email protected].

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Introducing The #1 Breast Cancer Doctor on the Truth About Mammograms, Hormones & Dense Breasts from The Tamsen Show.

Follow the show: The Tamsen Show

This is the episode to send to every woman you love.

Tamsen sits down with Dr. Elizabeth Comen, a leading breast oncologist, Harvard Medical School graduate, and author of the bestseller ‘All in Her Head’, for a myth-busting conversation about breast cancer, early detection, and why advocating for yourself could save your life.

Dr. Comen shares how far we've come in treatment and breast reconstruction, the emotional toll of diagnosis, and why a breast cancer diagnosis is not a death sentence today. Tamsen opens up about losing her own mother to breast cancer, and how that grief has shaped her own choices.

This episode is packed with information that could change — or save — a life, breaking down exactly when to start getting mammograms, what dense breasts mean (and what to do about them), and the truth about alcohol, hormones, and the rising rates of cancer in younger women.

You’ll learn: 

Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool: https://bcrisktool.cancer.gov/

Watch the Full Episode Here: https://www.youtube.com/@TamsenFadalTV

Get my new book, How To Menopause, Take Charge of Your Health, Reclaim Your Life and Feel Even Better Than Before 💖 http://www.howtomenopause.com 

Follow The Tamsen Show: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetamsenshow/

Follow Tamsen Fadal:

Website: https://www.tamsenfadal.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tamsenfadal

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tamsenfadal

Today's episode is sponsored by Field of Greens! Get 20% off your first order! Just use code TAMSEN at fieldofgreens.com.

You can find Dr. Elizabeth Comen here: 

Website: www.drelizabethcomen.com

Book: https://www.drelizabethcomen.com/book

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drelizabethcomen

Medical Disclaimer:

The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns or treatment options. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of The Tamsen Show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

Gabrielle Bernstein, best selling author and manifestation expert, stopped by Getting Better to help JVN understand the POWER of manifestation. What mental blocks do we carry with us that make it nearly impossible to manifest the life we want? How can we start TODAY? What does Family Systems Therapy have to do with it? We’re gonna find out!

For nearly two decades, Gabby Bernstein has been transforming lives—including her own. The #1 New York Times bestselling author has penned ten books, including Self Help, The Universe Has Your Back, Super Attractor and Happy Days. Gabby was featured on Oprah’s SuperSoul Sunday as a “new thought leader.” The New York Times identified Gabby as “a role model for a new generation of spiritual seekers.” She is a regular guest on Good Morning America, Today and Live with Kelly and Mark, among other leading media outlets. In 2023 she launched the innovative gabby coaching app to democratize spiritual self-help and be your coach—anytime, anywhere. In her weekly podcast, Dear Gabby, she offers up real-time coaching, straight talk and conversations about personal growth and spirituality. From her start hosting intimate conversations with twenty people in her New York City apartment, Gabby has grown to speaking to tens of thousands in sold-out venues throughout the world.

Full Video Episodes now available on YouTube.

You can follow Gabby Bernstein on Instagram @gabbybernstein.

Follow us on Instagram @gettingbetterwithjvn to join the conversation. Jonathan is on Instagram @JVN.

Our senior producer is Chris McClure. Our editor, engineer, & videographer is Nathanael McClure. Production support from Julie Carrillo, Anne Currie, and Chad Hall.

Our theme music is composed by Chris McClure & Nathanael McClure

Curious about bringing your brand to life on the show? Email [email protected].

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Introducing Dr. Vonda Wright: Formula to Lose Weight and Gain Muscle (Why your Current Workout is Not Giving You Results) from On Purpose with Jay Shetty.

Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

How often do you work out?

What’s been the biggest challenge in your fitness journey so far?

In today’s episode, Jay sits down with Dr. Vonda Wright, an orthopedic surgeon and researcher specializing in active aging and longevity. If you’ve ever wondered how to stay feeling youthful as you age, lose stubborn fat, and improve your sleep,, this conversation is packed with life changing insights.

Jay and Dr. Wright start by debunking the myth that aging is an inevitable decline. Dr. Wright explains how lifestyle choices in your 20s and 30s directly impact how you feel in your 40s, 50s, and beyond. They dive into how excess fat, especially around the belly, isn’t just about appearance—it’s a sign of inflammation that accelerates aging. Dr. Wright shares how movement, muscle mass, and diet play a crucial role in fat loss and energy levels.

They also explore the powerful body-brain connection. Dr. Wright breaks down how physical activity releases key proteins that protect the brain from cognitive decline and diseases like dementia. Jay and Dr. Wright discuss how poor sleep can sabotage fat loss, slow down recovery, and disrupt hormones—leading to more cravings, weight gain, and reduced longevity.

In this interview, you'll learn:

How fat storage impacts aging and energy levels.

The critical role of sleep in weight loss and brain function.

How movement and muscle mass keep you youthful.

How lifestyle choices in your 30s affect long-term health.

Why fitness-based friendships can improve your health.

If you want to stay sharp, maintain a healthy weight, and build lasting habits that help you thrive for decades, this episode gives you the tools to start now.

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty

Join over 750,000 people to receive my most transformative wisdom directly in your inbox every single week with my free Monk Mode newsletter. Subscribe here.

What We Discuss:

00:00 Intro 

01:43 Your Perception Of Aging Is A Myth

05:31 Develop Healthy Habits in Your 20s

10:07 Why Your Sleep Can Fall Apart in Midlife

16:58 Can You Restock Years Of Not Sleeping?

22:09 Sleep Deprivation is Sabotaging Your Weight Loss

26:45 The Weight Loss Formula That Actually Works 

36:04 There Is A Difference Between Being Healthy & Fit

43:13 Fitness Is A Great Way To Connect

46:17 How To Lose Stubborn Belly Fat

55:30 The Body Brain Connection is Integral to 

1:01:39 Don’t Make Excuses to Start Making Changes In Your Life

1:04:24 Mobility is One of the Most Important Skills for Aging Well 

1:09:51 Break Free from Your Limiting Beliefs

1:17:15 Vonda Wright on Final 5

Episode Resources:

Vonda Wright| Website

Vonda Wright| YouTube 

Vonda Wright| Linkedin

Vonda Wright| Instagram

Vonda Wright| Facebook

Vonda Wright| Tiktok

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

This week, we’re talking: travel fatigue, negative self talk, the price of Presidential pardons, Ron Vara, and the end of music’s longest feud. Plus! Our breakdown of The White Lotus finale.

Follow us on Instagram @gettingbetterwithjvn Jonathan on Instagram @jvn and senior producer Chris @amomentlikechris

New video episodes Getting Better on YouTube every Wednesday.

Our Senior Producer is Chris McClure. Our editor & engineer is Nathanael McClure. Our theme music is also composed by Nathanael McClure. Production support from Julie Carrillo, Anne Currie, and Chad Hall.

Curious about bringing your brand to life on the show? Email [email protected].

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Introducing Being the “default parent” (+ moving into a hotel & crying babies on planes) from Two Parents & A Podcast.

Follow the show: Two Parents & A Podcast

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

Procrastination, honey! We’ve all been there, done that, and bought the t-shirt. But whether it’s fear or misalignment - we’re uncovering the real reasons why we procrastinate, how to handle the procrastinator in your life, and how we can change the narrative on negative self talk to set ourselves up for success.

Marie Forleo, New York Times Best Selling Author of Everything Is Figureoutable and host of The Marie Forleo Podcast and MarieTV, breaks down Procrastination with Jonathan Van Ness on this week’s episode of Getting Better.

Full Video Episodes now available on YouTube.

You can follow Marie Forleo on Instagram @marieforleo. On TikTok @marieforleo. And on YouTube @marieforleo.

Follow us on Instagram @gettingbetterwithjvn to join the conversation. Jonathan is on Instagram @JVN.

Our senior producer is Chris McClure. Our editor, engineer, & videographer is Nathanael McClure. Production support from Julie Carrillo, Anne Currie, and Chad Hall.

Our theme music is composed by Chris McClure & Nathanael McClure

Curious about bringing your brand to life on the show? Email [email protected].

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Introducing LIZZO EXCLUSIVE: “Releasing The Weight Has Affected People” The Real Transformation Story She’s Never Shared Before from On Purpose with Jay Shetty.

Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

How would your life change if your healing reshaped not just your body, but your entire way of being?

What if the real change wasn’t about losing anything—but about gaining a deeper connection to yourself?

In this deeply vulnerable episode, global superstar Lizzo sits down with Jay for an unfiltered conversation about loss, boundaries, transformation, and what it really feels like living in the spotlight. Lizzo shares how her loyalty to friends and her habit of seeing the good in everyone sometimes came at the cost of her own peace.

She shares what happened when she finally stopped chasing relationships that no longer served her—and how distance gave her clarity on who was truly in her corner. Lizzo opens up about the pain of letting people go, the reality of feeling isolated, and the music that came out of her lowest moments.

Lizzo dives deep into how the recent public scandal impacted her—and why she’s now more intentional than ever with her words, her energy, and her healing. Lizzo opens up about the responsibility of being a public figure, how her weight release journey evolved into a powerful personal transformation, and why she's chosen to let go of toxic energy.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

How to Let Go of One-Sided Relationships

Why Some People Disappear When You Set Boundaries

How to Honor Your Emotions Without Editing Them

How Your Energy Shapes What You Attract

How Love Without Drama Becomes a Flow State

What It Means to Grow Apart Without Guilt

Why Intentional Healing Starts With Self-Awareness

Lizzo’s transformation is a reminder that you can still believe in people—and protect yourself. You can evolve—and still be soft. And you can face the hardest season of your life—and still come back to love.

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty

Join over 750,000 people to receive my most transformative wisdom directly in your inbox every single week with my free newsletter. Subscribe here. 

Join Jay for his first ever, On Purpose Live Tour! Tickets are on sale now. Hope to see you there! 

What We Discuss:

00:00 Intro

02:31 Sound Bath For Healing

07:40 Understanding Astrology to Change Your Life

10:38 Choose How to Lead Your Life 

15:28 How to Protect Your Peace

19:28 Getting Inspiration from Grief

26:02 Set Boundaries to Protect Yourself

35:05 Do You Believe in Love?

39:24 Continue to Be Yourself

43:14 Stand Up for Your Cause

46:39 Stop Forcing Relationships to Happen

50:18 Know Your Role, Stay in Your Lane

56:36 Advice for Aspiring Artist

58:40 How to Become an Unconditional Lover

01:02:40 The Power of Self Love 

01:05:51 Be Real About Your Journey

01:11:03 Letting Go of What’s Holding You Back

01:14:12 Become the Best Version of Yourself

01:15:45 Lizzo on Final Five

Episode Resources:

Lizzo | Website

Lizzo | YouTube

Lizzo | Instagram 

Lizzo | TikTok 

Lizzo| X

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].