Jameela Jamil: 'We’re not broken, society is' (E244)

In this episode, Jameela challenges the conventional measures of success, asking people to reconsider their priorities and question societal expectations.

Jameela Jamil is an actress, TV host and podcaster, known for her role in The Good Place and her podcast ‘I Weigh’. She is widely respected as a vocal advocate for mental health and body positivity. In this episode, Jake, Damian and Jameela discuss the idea that celebrity and fame is glorified and overrated.

Going through the timeline of her career, Jameela shares how during her most successful years, starting her own clothing line, featuring on billboards and appearing in magazines, she was chronically ill, lonely and suicidal. Jameela debates what a truly satisfactory life looks like and why everything she thought would make her feel complete and happy in fact did the opposite. She reveals the pivotal moment of illness that forced her to reevaluate her lifestyle and career choices.

Feeling silenced as a South Asian woman, Jameela offers profound insights into the importance of speaking out and advocating for yourself. From her teenage years suffering in silence and grappling with oppressive family dynamics to her vocal battle with diet culture and societal norms, she discusses how she has fought to find her voice. She shares her journey towards self-discovery and empowerment, focusing on the significance of setting boundaries when prioritising mental well-being.

Jameela also shares advice on how to navigate rejection, shame and negative self-talk, encouraging people to embrace their imperfections and focus on happiness above all else. This episode is an exploration of empathy, openness and community.