Episode 56: How to Stop Living for Other People (ft. Ben Nemtin)

About the Episode

Have you ever felt like there’s more to life than the daily grind, like your dreams are buried under all the obligations and expectations life throws at you?

In this episode, we sit down with The Buried Life co-founder and New York Times bestselling author, Ben Nemtin, to explore why so many of us feel disconnected from our true purpose—and how to reclaim it. For Ben, it all started as a group of friends chasing wild bucket-list dreams and helping strangers achieve their dreams too. In the process, they discovered what it means to give yourself permission to dream and then make those dreams a reality.

We dive deep into the psychology of fear, the power of accountability, and the surprising benefits of doing what you love—not just for yourself, but for everyone around you. We discuss why most people regret not living authentically, how to overcome the social and emotional barriers holding you back, and practical strategies for rediscovering your dreams, even if they’ve been buried for years.

If you’re looking for inspiration to take that first small step toward a life that feels truly yours, this episode will get you there.

Enjoy.

Ben Nemtin Quotes From the Episode

When you figure out your true calling, you have an obligation to give those gifts away—otherwise, it’s a disservice to the world.

Fear is your friend—it’s a marker that something matters to you.

You don’t have to wait for inspiration. Take action first, and inspiration will follow.

Your purpose isn’t one big thing—it’s a collection of micro-steps that lead you toward your authentic self.

If you fail, great. That’s not a loss—it’s data. You’re just learning what not to do next time.

You don’t need permission to chase your dreams. Just take the first step.