#650 - Jake Paul

In this three-part episode of *This Past Weekend* with Theo Von, Jake Paul opens up with remarkable vulnerability and wit, reflecting on his journey through fame, addiction, and personal transformation. The conversation begins with lighthearted banter about groceries and their self-financed comedy film *Busboys*, quickly evolving into deep discussions about mental health, sobriety, and the toll of public life—revealing he’s battled suicidal thoughts and struggled with addiction for over a decade. Paul credits Marcus Aurelius, psychedelics like ayahuasca and toad venom, and supporting his fiancée during her Olympic triumph as pivotal to his healing. He critiques modern media, cancel culture, and the rise of conspiracy theories as symptoms of societal boredom and a hunger for drama, while also advocating for ethical sports practices—calling out the UFC’s exploitative fighter pay and launching his own women’s boxing promotion, MVPW, under Netflix to empower female athletes. His upcoming fight with Nate Diaz is framed not just as a physical challenge but a test of mental resilience and authenticity. The episode culminates in tender reflections on fatherhood, particularly through his brother Logan’s experience with his daughter Esme, whose first spoken word brought Theo to tears. Humorous, surreal moments—like joking about 'killing' a neighbor named Brian Johnson—serve as metaphors for the complexity of identity, connection, and the importance of moving beyond first impressions through genuine conversation and shared experience.