Photo: Ismael Quintanilla III
Jay Shetty is grateful for his impact on the topic of mental health.
Shetty was honored with the 2026 Social Impact Award at the 2026 iHeartPodcast Awards, which returned to SXSW in Austin, Texas, on Monday (March 15). The renowned author and self-help leader uses his platform to foster meaningful conversations around mental health on his acclaimed podcast On Purpose.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty has a focus on mental health and aims to help listeners feel understood in the challenges and hurdles they face in life. With new episodes every week, On Purpose often features experts and special guests to "uncover a side of them we've never seen before."
"Receiving the 2026 Social Impact Award for On Purpose and our work to spark meaningful conversations around mental health means more than anything I can express," he said. "Creating spaces where people feel safe to explore their inner world, talk about healing and redefine strength has always been at the heart of what we do."
Shetty also gave credit to the tireless work behind the scenes that goes into making the podcast as well as the millions who "choose to show up each week to listen, to reflect, to do the hard work."
"When we started On Purpose, the intention was simple: to create a space where people could feel seen, heard and understood, and the conversations around mental health, healing and purpose are no longer optional. They're essential," he said. "I'm so proud that are community continues to lean into those conversations with openness and courage."
Check out the full list of winners and nominees for the 2026 iHeartPodcast Awards.