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

LIZZO EXCLUSIVE: “Releasing The Weight Has Affected People” The Real Transformation Story She’s Never Shared Before

By iHeartPodcasts

In this episode of "On Purpose with Jay Shetty," Lizzo opens up about her deeply personal journey of self-discovery, emotional healing, and mental wellness. She shares how she found solace in spiritual practices and the transformative role of astrology in understanding herself on a profound level.

Lizzo candidly discusses the challenges of maintaining authenticity and fostering supportive communities amidst fame. She reveals how her latest album reflects her emotional trajectory from anguish to liberation, capturing her vulnerability and newfound freedom. The episode provides insight into Lizzo's process of embracing her true self and channeling her experiences through music.

Listen to the original

LIZZO EXCLUSIVE: “Releasing The Weight Has Affected People” The Real Transformation Story She’s Never Shared Before

This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Apr 7, 2025 episode of the On Purpose with Jay Shetty

Sign up for Shortform to access the whole episode summary along with additional materials like counterarguments and context.

LIZZO EXCLUSIVE: “Releasing The Weight Has Affected People” The Real Transformation Story She’s Never Shared Before

1-Page Summary

Lizzo's Journey of Mental Health, Self-Discovery, and Healing

Lizzo has openly shared her struggles with mental health issues like panic attacks, depression, and feelings of unworthiness stemming from online hate and personal challenges. To heal, she turned to spiritual practices like sound baths, which she credits with providing emotional resets.

Spirituality and Self-Discovery Through Astrology

Astrology has been a transformative framework for Lizzo's self-discovery and personal growth. She delves deep into her astrological makeup, exploring the nuances of house years and planetary placements for insight into her personality and emotional responses.

Building Meaningful Communities and Cultivating Connection

Prioritizing her well-being, Lizzo has set boundaries by removing toxic relationships from her life. She values creating supportive spaces for growth, hosting retreats for Black women. Lizzo navigates the interplay between friendships and business by maintaining distinct roles.

Embracing Authenticity Over Public Persona

Lizzo has grappled with the disconnect between her true self and public persona, sharing her struggles with authenticity and expressing herself amidst fame's pressures. She advocates for a positive approach to body image and mental health, mindful of the impact her words and journey can have on others.

Channeling Emotions Through Her Music

Lizzo's album "Love in Real Life" captures her emotional arc from grief and anger to newfound freedom. It features raw, vulnerable songs reflecting her challenging mental state alongside upbeat tracks embodying her liberation. The album represents her desire to share this transformative life experience authentically.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Actionables

  • You can journal your emotional journey through music by creating a playlist that mirrors your feelings over time. Start by selecting songs that resonate with your current emotional state, then periodically add tracks that reflect changes in your mood or outlook. This musical diary can serve as a personal soundtrack to your emotional growth and help you visualize your transition from challenging times to periods of joy and liberation.
  • Develop a personal ritual for self-reflection by combining elements that resonate with you, such as lighting a specific candle, playing a particular piece of music, or sitting in a favorite space. Use this ritual to regularly check in with yourself, assess your emotional well-being, and make decisions about what boundaries you need to set or what relationships may need reevaluation.
  • Create a "Boundary Blueprint" for your relationships by writing down the qualities of interactions that make you feel supported and those that don't. Use this blueprint as a guide to evaluate your current relationships and decide where you might need to set boundaries or invest more energy. This can help you cultivate a more supportive and nurturing social environment.

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
LIZZO EXCLUSIVE: “Releasing The Weight Has Affected People” The Real Transformation Story She’s Never Shared Before

Lizzo's Journey of Mental Health, Self-Discove

Lizzo's openness about her struggles with mental health and her path to healing offers insight into a transformative journey marked by self-discovery, spirituality, and creativity.

Lizzo Endured Depression, Isolation, and Self-Doubt From Public Scrutiny and Personal Challenges

Lizzo has openly faced numerous challenges with her mental health, notably depression and self-doubt, which stemmed from intense public scrutiny and personal obstacles.

Lizzo Faced Panic Attacks, Worthlessness, and Withdrawal From Online Criticism and Identity Loss

Lizzo experienced her first panic attack in Los Angeles, feeling pressure on her chest and an overwhelming fear of hate fueled by misinformation. The panic attack was characterized by negative self-talk of worthlessness and not being cared for. Lizzo also felt isolated due to blindedness by her rising career and the constant presence of people, leading to a loss of self-identity and awareness.

Lizzo speaks candidly about struggling with feelings of unworthiness of love, linking these feelings to bullying experiences in her youth. She also acknowledges the negative impact of toxic systems and people on her mental well-being.

Lizzo Used Spirituality and Creativity to Process Emotions and Regain Self

Lizzo took the initiative for her mental health, incorporating practices such as meditation and exercise. She also recollected introspection during her solitude, another spiritual practice aiding her healing.

Lizzo Found Solace in Sound Healing Rituals Like Sound Bowls, Shifting Her Mental State From Despair To a Grounded, Introspective Mindset

Lizzo transformed her struggle into empowerment by engaging in spiritual practices. She described sound baths as emotional and spiritual resets, where she shared trippy and collective experiences with others, seeing the same colors and a galaxy, which reinforced her belief in the power of vibration ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

Lizzo's Journey of Mental Health, Self-Discove

Additional Materials

Actionables

  • You can create a personal mantra that affirms self-worth and practice it daily to combat feelings of unworthiness. Write down a positive statement about yourself that counters negative thoughts you've experienced. Repeat this mantra each morning, or when you feel self-doubt creeping in, to reinforce a positive self-image.
  • Start a 'sound diary' to explore how different sounds affect your mood and mental state. Record or note down how you feel before and after listening to various sounds, such as nature sounds, instrumental music, or white noise. This can help you identify soundscapes that promote well-being and use them when you need to shift your mental state.
  • Engage in a weekly 'creative expression ...

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
LIZZO EXCLUSIVE: “Releasing The Weight Has Affected People” The Real Transformation Story She’s Never Shared Before

Spirituality, Creativity, and Connection in Lizzo's Life

Lizzo's journey intertwines spirituality, self-discovery, creativity, and the cultivation of meaningful relationships to navigate both her personal growth and her career.

Lizzo's Fascination With Astrology Guides Personal Growth and Self-Discovery

Astrology serves not only as a source of guidance for Lizzo but also as a framework for understanding her behavior and emotional responses.

Lizzo's astrology is a significant aspect of her life, providing insights into her personality and guiding her efforts in personal growth. From her Taurus sun sign to the intricate details of house years and planetary placements, Lizzo has embraced astrology as more than just a hobby. Her continued interest in the field has been nurtured through a connection with astrologer Chani Nicholas, whom she consults with every eclipse season.

Lizzo's Astrology Offers Self-Awareness and Guidance Through House Years and Planetary Placements

She delves deep into the world of astrology, going beyond sun signs to explore the 'big three'—sun, moon, and rising signs—along with the roles of asteroids, Venus, Mercury, and more. Learning from astrologer Chani Nicholas, Lizzo has gained an appreciation for the subtleties of her horoscope, like her Leo rising which promotes her vibrant persona and bold style.

Lizzo also reflects on the transformative periods of "house years" in astrology, discussing her journey from a 12th house year of shadow work and hidden enemies to a second house year aligned with Virgo, where meticulous work is highlighted. These insights enable her to engage with astrology as a tool for self-discovery, introspection, and conscious living.

Lizzo Values Community and Connection and Has Curated a Supportive Inner Circle

Deeply valuing community and support networks, Lizzo has cultivated a life surrounded by those who resonate with her values and vision.

Lizzo Prioritizes Wellbeing and Artistic Vision By Setting Boundaries and Letting Go of Toxic Relationships

Her commitment to community and personal wellbeing manifests in the retreats she hosts for black women, aiming to ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

Spirituality, Creativity, and Connection in Lizzo's Life

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • Astrology is not scientifically proven to influence personality or life events, and its guidance may be considered subjective or coincidental.
  • Personal growth and self-discovery can be achieved through various means, not just astrology, such as through psychology, philosophy, or other spiritual practices.
  • The belief in astrology can sometimes lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy, where individuals attribute their behavior to astrological interpretations rather than taking personal responsibility.
  • While community and connection are valuable, the emphasis on astrology might not resonate with everyone within a community, potentially excluding those who do not share the same beliefs.
  • Hosting retreats for specific demographics, while supportive, may inadvertently exclude others who could benefit from such nurturing spaces.
  • Setting ...

Actionables

  • You can explore your own astrological chart to gain insights into your personality and potential growth areas by using free online resources or apps that generate natal charts and provide interpretations. For example, input your birth details into an astrology app and read about your sun, moon, and rising signs to understand how they might influence your personal growth.
  • Create a personal growth journal where you reflect on transformative periods in your life, similar to how one might reflect on house years in astrology. Start by noting down significant life events from the past year and consider how they have shaped you, then set intentions for what you want to cultivate in the coming year.
  • Foster a sense of community and connection by starting a sm ...

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
LIZZO EXCLUSIVE: “Releasing The Weight Has Affected People” The Real Transformation Story She’s Never Shared Before

Handling Fame and Public Image Pressures

Lizzo opens up about the complexities of her public image and how it sometimes conflicts with her authentic self. She also touches on the implications of her platform for issues like body image and mental health, advocating for a more positive and inclusive approach.

Lizzo Struggled With the Gap Between Her True Self and Her "Famous" Persona

Lizzo discusses creating versions of herself for the internet and the resulting struggle with public perception not aligning with her true self. Her comments suggest she grapples with how she is perceived by others, particularly in terms of expressing herself and being understood amidst the pressures of public life.

She talks about her depression, which stems from the disconnect between her genuine self and the fictional story of "Lizzo" as a character or brand that she felt she no longer owned. This sense of lost identity and control led to her feeling as if the person the world saw was not genuinely her, causing depression.

Lizzo also discusses her past addiction to drama, suggesting that indulging in gossip and drama had been part of her lifestyle. However, she acknowledges that this focus brought more drama into her life, complicating the challenge of maintaining authenticity in the spotlight.

She had been feeling sensitive and had recently cried a lot, sharing that in the past, instead of expressing herself, she would shut down. Working on expressing herself now, she feels that being quiet is a regression to an older version of herself. She also expressed becoming defensive and pushing away loved ones, showing how fame's pressures can alter personal relationships.

Lizzo Recognizes Her Platform's Impact on Body Image and Mental Health

Lizzo uses the term "weight release" rather than "weight loss" to describe her changes, positioning her weight change as part of a broader process of releasing not just physical but also emotional and psychological burdens.

She has been on an intentional weight release journey and has been quite open about it online. She has showcased her workouts and healthy eating habits, emphasizing that big girls can embody health, stamina, lo ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

Handling Fame and Public Image Pressures

Additional Materials

Actionables

  • Create a personal authenticity journal where you reflect daily on actions and decisions that felt true to yourself. This practice helps you become more aware of when you're being genuine versus when you're putting on a facade for others. For example, note down moments when you felt you had to act differently online and how that made you feel, then brainstorm ways to align your online presence with your true self.
  • Develop a 'body gratitude' routine by listing three things you appreciate about your body each morning. This can shift your focus from societal beauty standards to personal health and well-being. You might appreciate your legs for carrying you, your arms for their strength, or your stomach for digesting your food, reinforcing a positive body image.
  • Start a 'word impact' challenge with friends ...

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free
LIZZO EXCLUSIVE: “Releasing The Weight Has Affected People” The Real Transformation Story She’s Never Shared Before

Lizzo's Evolving Approach to Music, Brand, and Fans

Lizzo's creative journey and personal growth are reflected in her album process and approach to her public persona.

Lizzo's Album Process for "Love in Real Life" Reflects Her Journey Through Grief, Anger, and Freedom

Lizzo named her album "Love in Real Life" before she wrote the title song, feeling it represented a life-changing experience that was important to share. The realization that love on the internet pales in comparison to real-life connections compelled her to tell about the striking difference between online validation and genuine affection. The album includes raw and very personal songs that reflect her emotional state during a challenging period, not just upbeat tracks. Lizzo worked on the title track through different versions until she settled on the upbeat "party at stadium version," which she felt best represented who she is.

Lizzo's Album Includes Raw, Emotional Songs Reflecting Her Mindset During a Challenging Period, Not Just Upbeat Tracks

Lizzo has been transparent about her struggles, stating she went through a period of intense anger from October to January, resulting in many angry songs that she decided to include on the album to truthfully depict her experience. She also acknowledges feeling very free during this chapter of her life, and her new album reflects that liberation.

Lizzo Prioritizes Authenticity Over Public Approval

Lizzo shared that she planned to take time off in Japan for meditation after her album cycle, but her silence was misinterpreted as hiding due to a scandal. But Lizzo was working on her music, transforming difficult experiences into something positive. She wrote vulnerable songs about the loss of her dog, terminated friendships, and ...

Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary

Registered users get access to the Full Podcast Summary and Additional Materials. It’s easy and free!
Start your free trial today

Lizzo's Evolving Approach to Music, Brand, and Fans

Additional Materials

Actionables

  • Create a personal anthem that encapsulates your journey to self-acceptance by writing a song or poem that celebrates your unique experiences, much like an artist would for an album. This creative process allows you to reflect on your growth and the challenges you've overcome. For example, you might write a verse about a tough time you faced and follow it with a chorus that affirms your resilience and newfound freedom.
  • Establish a 'validation-free' challenge where you spend a week or more without seeking or offering validation on social media, focusing instead on nurturing real-life relationships. During this time, engage in activities that foster genuine connections, like writing letters to friends or organizing small gatherings, to experience the difference between online likes and in-person affection.
  • Develop a personal 'boundary blueprint' that outlines the l ...

Get access to the context and additional materials

So you can understand the full picture and form your own opinion.
Get access for free

Create Summaries for anything on the web

Download the Shortform Chrome extension for your browser

Shortform Extension CTA