Welcome to The Jai Dev Show
If you could ask some of the world’s brightest minds and biggest hearts any question… what would it be?
They are people who have concentrated their life-force. They have pointed the energy of their life into a single direction to create something beautiful and uplifting. They are the artists of life, creating and sharing the magic of their craft with their world.
Season 1
Cactus: Magical vs. Rational Thinking pt. 1
In Part 1 of this 2-part interview, Jai Dev and hip-hop MC Cactus (Secret Agent 23 Skidoo) delve into the power and presence of the modern hero’s journey. With sharp wit, charming humor, and penetrating wisdom they unravel what it means to experience a true rite of passage in the modern era.
Cactus, a master storyteller, both in spoken word and music will take you on a journey through early ‘conscious’ hip-hop culture- an epic that begins with a one-way bus ticket from Indiana to San Diego, and winds through many unexpected destinations and encounters some eccentric characters along the way. There’s no doubt this conversation will leave you uplifted, inspired, and thirsty for the spirit of adventure and open to your own creative heart.
Cactus: Magical vs. Rational Thinking pt. 2
In the second half of this interview, Jai Dev and his guest jump back in right where they left off. This installment is equal parts listening party, storytelling montage, and philosophical discussion. It’s amazing what they pack into these last 40 minutes. It features some of the latest music from Cactus’ albums, including a track featuring hip-hop legend Gift of Gab and a song previously unreleased.
Jai Dev and Cactus go deep into their respective creative processes and how they’ve harnessed life-force energy for the sake of fulfilling their mission as creators, teachers, husbands, and fathers. It is a moving, light-hearted, and profound reflection on life and love. Just listening will no doubt elevate your frequency.
Listening Party with Simrit
“One word? Dope!” This episode is all groove! Jai Dev sits down with musical artist, and wife, Simrit Kaur. Together, with the company of Jai Dev Show co-producer, Ross O’Brien, they listen and breakdown some of Simrit’s most powerful recordings- including one that’s yet to be released. It’s an introspective journey into the creative process, personal mastery, and the mystical side of musical performance.
If you know Simrit’s music, you already understand the penetrating and captivating power of her sound. If this is your first introduction, prepare to be swept away into a completely different realm of ethereal radiance and bliss. This is your chance to see the side of an artist’s craft that often goes unrevealed. It’s as precious as it is charming and fun!
Tommy Rosen & Kia Miller: Many Paths, One Destination
In this episode, Jai Dev sits down with internationally renowned yoga teachers Tommy Rosen (Recovery 2.0) and Kia Miller (Radiant Body Yoga, YogaGlo). Their brief but penetrating conversation covers everything from the breaking through of spiritual facades, maintaining an attitude of novelty and freshness decades into a yoga practice, how to find teachers and guides that will serve us well along our life’s journey.
Tommy and Kia‘s charm and insight will make you feel like you’re sitting down with friends you’ve known forever. This lovely interview is an invitation to explore your relationship to your practice, your life, and your heart.
Oz Fritz – The Wizard of Sound
Meet Grammy award-winning sound engineer, Oz Fritz. A wizard of his craft and a mythic character in the music world- Oz possesses a profound mind and a deep soul connection. A true pioneer of the 70s counter-culture, his life and work have been inspired by Led Zeppelin’s Jimmy Page, occultist and magician Aleister Crowley, legendary producer Bill Laswell, and a personal/professional relationship with master recording artist Tom Waits- with whom Oz won a Grammy.
Our conversation takes many twists and turns through Oz’s rich life and career. A journey that has taken him all over the world, from Calgary all the way to the rural villages of Northern Africa. Most recently, Oz has been the touring sound engineer on the Simrit Project. Oz has generated palpable magic in his life by exploring the depths of being through the lens of sonic form. You can check out his blog at: http://oz-mix.blogspot.com/
Drupada John MacDonald – The Yogi Astrologer
A lifetime devotee of the renowned Yogi Parmahansa Yogananda, Drupada John MacDonald literally found his life’s purpose in the stars. Three decades into his study and practice of Vedic Astrology, he has formed a firm and beautiful bond with the inner light of wisdom. He speaks with exceptional eloquence and insight into everything from basketball, to the chakra system, to the foundations of unwavering faith.
His life story is an illuminating roadmap for those wishing to harmonize with the deeper essence of all things. You can find more information about him and the Ananda community here: https://www.expandinglight.org/teachers/drupada-mcdonald.php
Infinite Quality – Vaughn Benjamin Tribute
SPECIAL EPISODE: Much more than a reggae artist, Vaughn Benjamin was a Rasta King, a prophetic lyricist, and a talent beyond description. He recorded over 70 albums, most famously with the iconic reggae band, Midnite, and later as Akae Beka. I sat down with three friends who knew Vaughn well and worked very closely with him musically and otherwise: Kenyatta Itola, Ryan Ishence Willard, and Sista Kat. Simrit also drops in and shares her experiences with Vaughn’s transcendent music and presence. Find some of his music on Spotify here.
Lei’Ohu Ryder – Living Spirit of Aloha
From her first words, Lei’Ohu Ryder will wrap you in the embrace of her loving presence. She embodies the deep wisdom of a grandmother and the joy of a giggling child. To listen to her teachings and hear her enchanting stories is to receive the infinite blessings of unconditional Love- the living spirit of Aloha. You’ve never heard anything quite like this… mystical tales of ancient scrolls, the grace of divine beings, and the infectious laughter of those living solely by laws of their heart. Check out her non-profit, Aloha in Action here.
The Prosperity Force – Essential Dharma #1
Jai delivers an illuminating discourse on the essence of Prosperity. He uses penetrating wisdom to pry apart the context of our lives, expanding the mundane into the miraculous and giving us a steady target at which to aim our wealth of life-energy.
It’s practical, it’s powerful, and just a nugget of this stuff is enough to uplift the energy of your day and help you prioritize the things that matter most.
A Thousand Midnights – The Spiritual Force of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The Simrit Story
The human behind an otherworldly sound. Simrit, stepping into her vulnerability, opens up the vault of her origin story as a Greek orphan, and shares with the world how she became the musician, artist, and woman that she is today. An emotional tribute to the power of perseverance, grit, passion, artistry, and love. If her music has yet to find its way into your heart, her humility, grace, and strength certainly will.
Tommy Rosen: Recovery 2.0
The marvelous and magnetic Tommy Rosen- there’s no one in the world quite like him. His energy and enthusiasm for life are contagious. The founder of the revolutionary program to heal addiction, Recovery 2.0, he is a man that has plumbed to the depths of humanity and come up with a heart full of gold. His inspiring story of overcoming the painful cycle of addiction is a testament to the capacity of the human spirit. If his powerful wisdom doesn’t uplift you, his infectious personality certainly will.
COVID-19, Ayurveda & Immunity with Dr. John Douillard
When it comes to living with great health in the modern world, Dr. John Douillard is one of our world’s great minds. I’ve been a fan of his work for well over a decade. Not only is he a great clinician, author, and teacher…he walks his talk. In this episode, we discuss the current Coronavirus pandemic and some practical strategies for keeping our immunity strong and mind calm. Lots of important tips in here!
Dr. Douillard is a globally recognized leader in the fields of natural health, Ayurveda, and sports medicine. He is the creator of LifeSpa.com and is evolving the way Ayurveda is understood around the world. Dr. John is the former Director of Player Development for the New Jersey Nets NBA team, author of 6 books, and is a repeat guest on the Dr. Oz show. Visit his website at http://www.lifespa.com
The Extraordinary Life of Rob Greenfield
The L.A. Times called him “Different”; UPROXX described him as “the best kind of crazy”…and Fox TV said he was “the world’s foremost dumpster diver!”
I’m not quite sure how to describe Rob Greenfield, but here’s a start: If you were religious you might say he’s ‘doing the lord’s work’. If you are an environmentalist, you would likely call him a hero. No matter what kind of a human being you are, after listening to this episode I bet you’ll agree that he is a truly inspiring brother with a huge heart, a big mission, and possesses the creative brilliance that can cause actual change.
In this episode I talk to Rob about his life’s story, his incredible activism campaigns, and life during the quarantine. Visit his website at: www.robgreenfield.org
Robert Thurman – Turning The Wheel Of Time
This is a very special episode of our podcast. Bob Thurman is a national treasure. He is one of the world’s greatest Tibetan Buddhist teachers and scholars. In 1962, Tenzin Bob was the first Westerner to be ordained by his Holiness the Dalai Lama. He is the founder of Tibet House with Richard Gere and Philip Glass and was named one of Time Magazine’s 25 Most Influential Americans. The conversation between Jai Dev and Bob is filled with wonderful teachings, a spirit of joy, and lots of laughter.
This episode is the audio broadcast of our recent online event, Turning The Wheel Of Time. To join the full online retreat with Bob and Jai Dev, visit http://www.
The Plant-Based Food Revolution with Phillip & Danea Horn
Here we meet two stewards of the plant-based food movement. Their story is inspiring and filled with life lessons that at some level apply to all of our journeys. The plant-based food revolution is upon us. It is of great importance, and it is intertwined with the health of our planet and our species.
We are very pleased to introduce you to Phil and Danea Horn, the inspiring founders, and owners of the Burger patch in Sacramento California. The Burger Patch has quickly become one of my favorite vegan or vegetarian places to eat. But this is about so much more than plant-based burgers or the vegan diet. It’s about a vision of kindness: kindness for the body, for the mind, and for the planet.
Ep. 17 | Sunn m’Cheaux – The Gullah Teacha
Ep. 18 | Yogis, Racism & Liberation with Vedya Amrita Bethel
Ep. 19 | Music Of The Mystics Pt. 1 – Tahir Qawwal
If you love a great story, and if you love great music, tune into this. The adventure that is Tahir Qawwal’s life is completely unique and fascinating. You may know him as the leader of the Sufi Qawwali ensemble, Fanna-fi-Allah. Qawwali is a passionate devotional practice in which the fire of divine love (ishq) is ecstatically expressed through the mystical verses of Sufi poets. Tahir is an exceptional musician and singer, and has also just released an incredible new eight-part documentary called ‘Music of the Mystics. In this episode of the podcast, Jai Dev talks to Tahir about his fascinating life, the rich spiritual tradition of Qawwali, and the many stories that bring it all to life. Tahir’s story is part one of this two-part podcast.
Music of the Mystics Film: https://www.samaschoolofmusic.com/music-of-the-mystics
Sama School of Music: https://www.samaschoolofmusic.com
Website: https://fanna-fi-allah.com/
Fanna-Fi-Allah Youtube Channel https://www.youtube.com/fannafiallah
Ep. 20 | Music Of The Mystics Pt. 2 – Aminah Chishti
Aminah Chishti is a force of nature! She is a close student of the great tabla master, Ustad Dildar Hussein Khan, and as the percussionist for the Sufi Qawwali ensemble, Fanna-fi-Allah, she made history as the first woman initiated into the ancient Qawwali lineage. In this lively conversation, Jai Dev and Aminah discuss her colorful life, filled with enchanting characters, inspiring mentors, and her mystic journeys powered by music and sound. They also discuss the new documentary film, Music of the Mystics, where Aminah’s musical journey is beautifully captured.
Music of the Mystics Film: https://www.samaschoolofmusic.com/music-of-the-mystics
Website: https://fanna-fi-allah.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dhamamama/
Ep. 21 | Trevor Hall – Journey The Path
This conversation confirmed to me what I had already suspected: Trevor Hall is a genuinely beautiful brother with a big heart and a fellow journeyer on the path. Over the last many years his career as an artist, musician, and songwriter has soared to great success with huge streaming numbers and sold-out tours. In this episode, we get to hear the story behind it all…and an incredible story it is!
From growing up on the coastal shores of South Carolina, to opening a tour for the legendary Reggae band, Steel Pulse (at the age of 17!), to repeatedly traveling to India and immersing himself in her wondrous mysticism. I can say that I enjoyed every moment of this episode. It’s definitely one of my favorites.
Trevor Hall on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/artist/3RMHexittaAZkf8zukkZB8?si=JgY_Jo29RSCqnjv3TxZUeA
Trevor Hall Official Website:https://www.trevorhallmusic.com/
Ep. 22 | Marques Wyatt – The Majestic Nature of Things
Ep. 23 | Rachel Brathen – Yoga Girl – Live at Envision Pt. 1
Ep. 24 | Stephen Brooks – Live at Envision Pt. 2
With over decades of experience working on the creation of thriving ecological communities, beginning with The Punta Mona Center for Regenerative Design and Botanical Studies in Costa Rica, Stephen has become a world leader in tropical permaculture. Connection is the current running through everything Stephen has created – connection to the earth, the plants, the music, and each other. Enjoy!
Ep. 25 | Sarah Wu – Live at Envision Pt. 3
If you were to call Sarah an herbalist you wouldn’t be wrong. However, as you’ll hear in this episode, it goes much deeper than that!
Even if you wouldn’t consider yourself a plant-lover per se, listening to Sarah discuss her ever-evolving relationship with the plant world will at least have you looking at plant life through a new lens.
Defining herbalism as an art, science, craft, and practice, Sarah brings plants into deep focus and encourages viewing the plants around you in ways you might not have considered. It’s not only how you experience a plant, but how does a plant experience you? What kind of dialogue takes place and what kind of symbiotic relationship is forged between humans and plants? This podcast is perfect for the “herb nerds” out there, and for anyone else who wants in on the, “What’s your favorite herb?” conversation. Enjoy the episode!
Check out the month-long Permaculture Design Certification training Sarah and her colleagues are doing this June! They are now accepting applications to enroll: https://www.atitlanorganics.com/php
Website: https://villagewitch.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/villagewitch.sarahwu/?hl=en
Ep. 26 | Ashleigh Sergeant – Live at Envision Pt. 4
Here’s what happens when two world-renowned yoga instructors get together to talk shop. Jai Dev chats with Ashleigh Sergeant in this final “Live from Envision Festival” episode. Ashleigh is the Director of Yoga & Movement at Envision, head of yoga content at Gaia.com and, and a yoga instructor who now calls Costa Rica home.
The conversation winds its way around the world of yoga, like a vine, getting into the cracks and crevices, finding openings for expansion as well as barriers to growth. There’s the cacophony of nature, the simplicity of the profound, staying centered amidst the chaos, narcissism, discipline, dogma, joy, and what we see when we point at the moon. It’s just your average everyday jungle meditation on what it means to seek a teacher, to be a teacher, and to not need a teacher. It might be best if you just listen.
Ep. 27 | Wasfia Nazreen – Reaching Our Highest Summits
Wasfia Nazreen is a powerhouse. Her story is anything but ordinary. Her life-accomplishments are already the stuff of legends. Instantly upon meeting, I felt a great connection with Wasfia, and our two-hour conversation takes you on a journey through the peaks and valleys of her amazing life (which I sense is only getting started!).
Wasfia is an a human-rights activist, educator, mountaineer, and so much more. As a visionary campaign to celebrate and uplift the women of her native country, Bangladesh, Wasfia became the first Bangladeshi, and first Bengali, to climb the Seven Summits – aka the highest mountains of every continent!
She is the ONLY woman to be named both a National Geographic Explorer & Adventurer. Her passion has always been driven by causes close to her heart — all of which are grounded in a strong foundation of meditation and self-realization practices. She has been blessed to learn from and become close friends with some of the greatest teachers on the planet, including His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, and His Holiness the 17th Karmapa.
Listen in on a fascinating life story, from childhood abandonment trauma that led not to despair but instead to a life built on fierce independence and drive. Forging her own path far away from the arranged marriages and status quo for women in her country, Wasfia chose instead to look fear square in the eye, to fall asleep to the lullaby of avalanches, and to keep climbing. “That mountain gives you an excuse to give up every day,” she says of Everest. Thankfully for us, she did no such thing.
Ep. 28 | Robert Thurman – The Life Adventures of Tenzin Bob
Robert Thurman, who we affectionately call Tenzin Bob, is simply a treasure. Time Magazine aptly described him as a “larger than life scholar-activist destined to convey the Dharma, the precious teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha, from Asia to America.”
Bob’s life story is extraordinary and in this episode of the podcast, he takes us through many of its amazing stories. This two-hour episode is filled with gems of wisdom, hilarious moments, and the unique stream of wisdom that flows through him like a vital spring!
Bob is one of the world’s leading scholars and translators of Tibetan Buddhism. In 1962 he was the first Westerner to be ordained by his Holiness the Dalai Lama. In 1997 Bob was named one of Time Magazine’s 25 Most Influential Americans. He co-founded Tibet House US with Tenzin Tethong, Richard Gere, and Philip Glass, a non-profit organization based in New York City and dedicated to the preservation and renaissance of Tibetan culture.
Inspired by his longtime good friend His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Bob takes us along with him into an expanded vision of the world through the prism of Tibetan Buddhism. He shares with us the sense of refuge in the Dharma, which unfailingly helps us clear away the shrouds of fear and confusion, sustains us with the cheerfulness of an enriched present, and opens a door to a path of realistic hope for a peaceful, kind, and wise future.
This special episode is sponsored by Envision 2021. A very special New Year’s Virtual Retreat produced by Menla, and a benefit for Tibet House US. Featuring an incredible lineup of teachers and musicians, including Robert Thurman, Nena Thurman, Sharon Salzberg, Krishna Das, Jai Dev, Simrit, and many more!