What was your biggest challenge after hitting rock bottom?

How did you manage to overcome your failures?

Today, let's welcome the one and only Fat Joe, a renowned American rapper and music industry executive. He began his music career in the early 1990s and quickly gained recognition with his debut album "Represent" in 1993, featuring the hit single "Flow Joe." Fat Joe has played a crucial role in promoting other artists, notably Big Pun, who achieved significant success before his untimely death. His journey from the streets of the Bronx to international stardom is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and enduring impact on the world of hip hop.

Fat Joe provides an honest look at the gritty realities of his early life, including hustling for money and living through dangerous encounters. He shares how the aggressive nature of hip hop initially required him to hide his true, more personable self behind a tough exterior. However, he credits the genre for saving his life and offering a legitimate path out of the streets.

The conversation takes a turn as Fat Joe talks about the devastating losses he endured, including the deaths of his sister, Big Pun, and his grandfather, all within a short span. These tragedies plunged him into a deep depression, from which he emerged with the help of therapy, highlighting the importance of mental health and seeking help. Despite facing financial mismanagement and betrayals, Fat Joe maintains his integrity and commitment to his values. 

In this interview, you'll learn:

How to balance career and family

How turn negative experiences into positives

How to build a resilient mindset

How to give back to your community

How to stay true to yourself

Fat Joe's story is a source of inspiration, demonstrating that with determination and support, it is possible to overcome adversity and achieve lasting success and happiness.

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty

Special thanks to Soho Home at Soho Works 55 Water where the taping took place.

What We Discuss:

• 00:00 Intro
• 02:04 Earliest Childhood Memory
• 03:52 Bullying
• 07:53 Developing resilience 
• 08:37 Life and Death Choices
• 09:51 Thug Life
• 12:42 Ambition to Succeed
• 16:43 Figure It Out
• 22:03 Family Tree
• 27:43 Losing Family Over Addiction
• 31:57 Loss and Grief
• 39:21 Sister Love
• 41:13 Big Pun
• 46:56 Financial Literacy
• 50:19 Take Care of Your Parents
• 52:13 Money and Trust
• 56:25 Stick Around
• 57:44 Kids with Special Needs
• 01:02:30 Channeling Energy Through Music
• 01:04:30 Interview Gone VIral
• 01:08:30 Doing Good in Silence
• 01:11:05 The HipHop Culture
• 01:13:30 Spiritual and Healing Journey
• 01:16:34 Hair Care
• 01:19:47 Weight Loss
• 01:25:02 Joe on Final Five 

Episode Resources:

• Fat Joe | Instagram
• Fat Joe | TikTok