Jelly Roll: 5 Powerful Ways to Overcome Guilt and Shame & How to Finally Forgive Yourself

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

Have you ever struggled with guilt or shame?

Why do you think self-forgiveness is so hard?

Today, Jay sits down with the incredibly talented and resilient Jelly Roll, a Grammy-nominated Nashville native who has captured hearts with his raw, soulful music. Rising from a troubled past marked by addiction, incarceration, and personal struggles, Jelly Roll has turned his life around through music, earning widespread acclaim for his deeply emotional lyrics and raw storytelling. With a top-three debut on the Billboard 200 and multiple awards to his name, His music resonates with those facing hardship, offering a message of hope, redemption, and healing.

Jelly Roll shares his powerful journey from a turbulent past—marked by addiction, incarceration, and emotional struggles—to becoming one of the most celebrated figures in country music today. Together, they explore topics like the impact of childhood trauma, battling demons, overcoming addiction, and the importance of love and healing in personal transformation.

Jelly Roll opens up about his rise to success, reflecting on how music has been a healing force not only for him but for the countless fans who resonate with his lyrics. From finding solace in Jay Shetty’s book Think Like a Monk during a dark time in his life to creating music that speaks directly to those who feel unseen, Jelly Roll's story is one of redemption, hope, and purpose.

In this interview, you'll learn

How to find purpose in your struggles

How to forgive yourself for past mistakes

How to overcome addiction through accountability

How to turn negative experiences into positive impact

How to create emotional resilience in tough times

How to find peace in moments of darkness

No matter where you are right now, it’s never too late to rewrite your story and create a life filled with meaning and growth. Keep pushing forward, and believe in your ability to rise.

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty

What We Discuss:

• 00:00 Intro
• 04:24 Rediscovering Purpose After Struggles
• 07:26 Coping with the Loss of a Father
• 10:34 How His Mother Sparked His Musical Journey
• 14:48 The Impact of Deep-Rooted Insecurities
• 17:25 Embracing Accountability for Personal Growth
• 19:51 The Barriers to Self-Forgiveness
• 21:08 Reflections on His Fifteen-Year-Old Self
• 24:26 Life Behind Bars as a Juvenile
• 28:47 The Fine Line Between Accountability and Self-Sabotage
• 32:56 Developing Emotional Awareness and Growth
• 37:21 The Reality of Food Addiction
• 40:34 Breaking the Chains of Addiction
• 42:22 Finding Someone Who Sees Your True Worth
• 49:45 Why Asking for Help Shows Strength, Not Weakness
• 54:12 Bringing Hope and Uplifting Spirits Through Prison Performances
• 01:02:13 Addressing Drug Addiction in His Congressional Speech
• 01:08:50 Understanding the True Victims of Drug Abuse
• 01:11:31 Breaking Free from Generational Curses
• 01:18:23 The Profound Impact of Music on His Life
• 01:25:57 Healing the Inner Child Through Faith
• 01:31:14 A Heartfelt Letter from His Brother
• 01:35:36 Fast Five with Jelly Roll

Episode Resources:

• Jelly Roll | Website
• Jelly Roll | Instagram
• Jelly Roll | Facebook
• Jelly Roll | YouTube
• Jelly Roll | TikTok

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.